westbrook-vets

Arthritis Tips for Ageing Pets

Sun, 08 Dec 2024 23:41:44 GMT

With Winter on its way we want to help our oldies be a little more comfortable through the colder months.

4 out of 5 dogs over the age of 8 years old have arthritis

Many pets are mistakenly described as ‘just old’ when really, they are in pain.

Signs of pain/discomfort in dogs and cats – your pet doesn’t need to vocalise or ‘cry’ to be in pain, it can be as subtle as a change in behaviour.

Reduced activity, stubborn, slow/stiff getting up
Sleeping more, lethargic, lazy, unwilling to play
Clingy/separation anxiety, unsettled/general anxiety
Change in character, aggression when approached or stroked
Weak back end, unsteady, limping
Difficulty with steps/stairs, unable to jump up/down
Toileting ‘accidents’ inside, difficulty using dog/cat door to get outside
Self-inflicted damage – persistent licking at a specific area
Cats can sometimes develop matts in their fur as unable to groom properly

Arthritis – Tips for senior dogs and cats

1. Weight Management

The biggest thing you can do for your pet to help with its arthritic pain is help maintain a normal healthy weight.
We know those ‘puppy dog eyes’ are hard to resist but know you are providing more pain-free years for your pet by being strong. (as well as saving money buying less food/treats and spending less money at the vets on treatment)
Some tips to help reduce weight
Measure amount of dry food currently feeding and reduce, or alternatively there are many light/senior or satiety types of food as alternatives.
Reduce treats, cut them in half or offer half the amount
Reduce bones, especially marrow as it is very fatty
Where there is a few people in the house who may feed your pet you may set out a tray on the bench with his daily allowance each morning so everyone knows what he can have for the day.

2. Surfaces

Flooring should be non-slip – especially around lounge/chairs where your dog is most likely to sleep or jump down onto.
Flooring around dog doors should also be non-slip.
Dog doors should be correct size so pet doesn’t scrape its shoulders or have to arch its back to get through.
Can be easily achieved by placing cheap non-slip yoga mats in high traffic areas or where your pet likes to sit.
Steps up/down from bed/lounge, in/out of car to help reduce pressure on joints, especially jumping down.

3. Trim hair/cut nails

Trim hair around feet to help with traction of the pads
Keep nails short to reduce the pain in the toe joints from pressure of long nails on the ground.
Short nails also provide correct contact for the pads for better traction.

4. Bedding and warmth

Don’t let them get too cold
If outside may need a coat in winter
Avoid swimming/bathing in cold water in winter
Thick supportive mattresses to support those old and tired joints
Warm sheltered position inside, or out of the wind if outside, such as a kennel.

5. Pain relief

There are many nutraceutical supplements that can be purchased ‘over the counter’, most containing a combination of natural ingredients such as fish oil, omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, chondroitin, green lipped muscle, abalone and shark cartilage.
4cyte – our most popular supplement (AKA ‘magic green beads’)
Contains epitalis, green lipped muscle, abalone and shark cartilage providing joint support as well as pain relief as a natural anti-inflammatory agent.
Original granule supplement and now available in a more palatable gel
Covered by the 4cyte money back guarantee.
Fish oil – regular fish oil capsules can be administered at a dose of 1000mg/10kg/day
Premium commercial diets such as Royal Canin Mobility, Hills JD.
Arthritis injections – Zydax
A course of injections given weekly for 4 weeks and then repeated every 6 months
Targets 2 key signs of Osteoarthritis – cartilage degeneration and inflammation
Click here for more information on Zydax
Prescription medications
Usually we reserve these for when all else is not maintaining comfort.
Various NSAIDS (eg. Meloxicam) are most commonly used as provide best results as a pain killer and anti-inflammatory.
Regular blood tests to assess organ function are recommended if your pet is needing these medications long term
We sometimes use a combination of other medications depending on the individual requirements and health status of your pet

6. Exercise

Accept your dogs needs and exercise capabilities and requirements have changed as they have aged, they may not be able to do what they used to. Some dogs actually need reduced exercise, while others need increased but gentle exercise.
Controlled Leash walking
This is really one of the simplest and most beneficial thing you can offer
Ensure your dog is not pulling on the lead to make sure it is using all muscles effectively. If you have trouble with pulling we suggest using a head halti with the clip attaching behind the ears.
Try up/down hills and different surfaces like long grass or sand to help keep muscles strong in younger dogs to help prevent arthritic changes
Always stick to what your dog is capable of, sometimes 5 minutes on level even ground is enough for older weak dogs.
Restrict rough and tumble play
your dog won’t limit itself as it is fun but will become more sore afterwards.
Restrict ball chasing or fast paced exercise with sharp turns
We know they love chasing a ball, but this is really hard on their joints and muscles
Dogs won’t limit themselves even if painful as the ball becomes so obsessive and their excitement overrides pain.
Fetching into water is not as hard on joints
Brain games
Take some of daily food out on walks to make fun, hide and seek games
Some off-leash time provides stimulation
Hide the ball or treats under blankets at home
There are many dog and cat puzzles available
Consider taking old/painful dogs out in a trolley/pram so they can still get stimulation even if they can’t walk all the way.
Warm up and cool down
Walking for 5-10 minutes before vigorous exercise and allowing a slow cool down afterwards, ie dry off after swimming or put a coat on if outside in the cold.
Physio/Rehab therapist
Consider an examination with an animal physiotherapist who can provide better guidance on what specific exercises and activities will suit your pet to help maintain or strengthen certain areas and keep your pet in the best shape possible.

Dental Disease in Your Pet

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 02:02:54 GMT

Lets Talk Teeth !!!

You are probably over us vets banging on about your pet’s teeth. Every time they visit the vet we are checking their teeth, and even offer FREE pet dental checks at any time.

Why?

Because your pet can’t talk!

And their teeth are something they need to use every day, every time they eat. Imagine if we just waited till their dental disease became so painful that they stopped eating. Imagine yourself having toothache so bad that you couldn’t eat at all. This would be after you had been eating on one side of your mouth for some time, until it also became too painful to chew on.

We get so many reports of a complete change in pet behaviour, to a much happier and active pet after having their teeth cleaned, and problem teeth extracted. It becomes clear that the pet must have been experiencing such a dull aching persistent pain that it was completely affecting their behaviour and quality of life.

We HATE extracting teeth. We really do. We avoid it wherever we can, however we LOVE making a difference in your pet’s life, so much so that when they come back for their recheck you have noticed such a change in their behaviour you can’t thank us enough.

And that is what we are here for, to be an advocate for your pet, as they can’t tell you when they have a sore mouth. They can just hope that we are able to pick up on it and treat it before it becomes unbearable.

Pets are tough and will carry on coping as best they can when they are in pain. They don’t show obvious signs of dental pain that you can easily notice. This is part of their evolutionary behaviour, with instinct to not show other animals when they may be vulnerable.

So what is dental disease?

Like humans, dental disease in pets is caused by plaque forming on teeth.
The first signs are inflammation and infection of the gums.
The plaque hardens and sticks to the teeth. This forms what is known as Tartar which allows bacteria to form and work its way under the gumline. This causes inflammation known as Gingivitis.
Infection occurs and will begin to attack and destroy the supportive tissues of the teeth ( including the gums, ligaments and even bone).
The worst outcomes are tooth loss , pain and possible abscesses .

Why do we check your pet’s teeth at every visit?

Dental disease is the most commonly diagnosed medical problem in cats and dogs.
80% of dogs and cats over the age of 2 years of age will be diagnosed with some form of dental disease.
If diagnosed and treated early, dental disease is reversible! (Saving your pet from unnecessary pain and saving you money!)
Left untreated, dental disease will get worse over time. Irreversible damage results in pain and tooth loss and impacts your pet’s quality of life.

But my pet seems happy and healthy...?

Dental disease is painful.

It is likely that your dog or cat will not show obvious signs of being in pain.
If we have a sore tooth, we still need to eat but we often avoid chewing on the painful side. Your pet may be doing the same without you knowing! They adapt to the pain and act normally.
In extreme cases pets will stop eating or reduce the amount they are eating because the pain becomes too much. We do not wish for your pet to reach this point!
Dental disease isn't just bad breath and rotten teeth. The bacteria associated with dental disease can also enter your pet’s bloodstream. This can infect other organs, such as their heart, liver and kidneys.

Do we need to treat it now...?

Early diagnosis and treatment are best for your pet’s health and wellbeing.
Early stages of dental disease (Grade 1 & 2) are REVERSIBLE.
Left untreated, dental disease WILL only get worse.
If your pet has more severe dental disease, you risk of damage to other organs the longer it is left untreated.

I’m worried. Isn’t a general anaesthetic risky?

All anaesthetics have some risk, but we do many things to ensure that these risks are minimised. This includes:
All anaesthetics are fully monitored with a whole range of specialised equipment (exactly the same as you would find in a human hospital)
All patients have a dedicated surgical nurse. They are responsible for monitoring the anaesthetic as well as staying with their patient right through recovery
Our preanesthetic blood tests mean we can pick up things that we cannot see just by physically examining of patient
Also remember, the longer you leave dental disease, the worse it gets and the higher the anaesthetic risk.

Didn't my pet just have dental treatment...?

Just like humans, plaque and tartar start to form on your pet’s teeth in as little as 24 hours after treatment. This is the process of dental disease starting all over again.
Having dental treatment once doesn't mean that your pet will never need it again . Some breeds of dogs and cats are more prone to dental disease than others.
As humans we reduce dental disease by brushing our teeth at least twice daily. Our pets rarely enjoy or allow this level of care!
Daily homecare can play a significant part in reducing dental disease .
We give you specific advice for your pet to help control plaque build-up and prolong the need for dental treatment.

How serious is my pet's Dental Disease?

Dental disease is graded on a scale 1 to 4.

Grade 1 - Minor

Early stage dental disease which , with treatment, can be reversed .

Soft plaque has built up on the surface of the teeth. A small amount of tartar is also present. This early stage is characterized by gingivitis, which is inflammation of the gums in response to the presence of tartar and bacteria. You may observe some swelling of the gums. A thin red line on the gums next to the teeth may also be visible during this stage.

Dog

Cat

Person

How is it treated?

Scale and polish procedure.
No extractions needed.
Recovery is shorter and generally uncomplicated with almost no pain or discomfort.

Grade 2 - Moderate

Early stage dental disease , where MOST of the damage is reversible .

Moderate tartar buildup is present. It has acted as a wedge, pushing the gums away from the teeth, causing food, bacteria, and debris to accumulate there. The gums are red, swollen, and painful and bleed when touched. This is early periodontitis, where there is a small amount of bone loss – less than 25% - visible on oral radiographs. You may notice inflammation of your pet’s gums, bad breath, and visible plaque and tartar. At this stage, proper dental care is crucial to reverse the progress of dental disease.

Dog

Cat

Person

How Is It Treated?

Slightly longer scale and polish as more teeth affected.
No extractions needed.
Recovery is reasonably short and uncomplicated with little discomfort.

Grade 3 - Major

Grade 3 is a significant level of dental disease , with irreversible damage .

Plaque and tartar formation is heavy. Pockets of bacteria and debris have accumulated to form loss of gum attachment to the tooth and further pockets of infection along the teeth (periodontal pockets). The infection has destroyed tissues around the teeth that hold them in place, and some have become loose. This is moderate periodontitis, when 25-50% bone loss is visible on oral radiographs. Gums will be swollen and irritated, and probably bleed easily. Your pet will experience bad breath and significant pain and need to have infected and/or damaged teeth removed.

Dog

Cat

Person

How is it treated?

A longer procedure with likely tooth extractions.
Recovery is longer, with food restrictions, pain relief and antibiotics.

Grade 4 - Severe

Grade 4 is a severe level of dental disease , where damage is irreversible AND must be treated urgently. It’s making your pet sick.

Severe tartar formation and gum disease is present. Toxic debris and inflammation have caused extensive tissue death. Roots are infected, abscessed, and rotten. The thin wall of bone surrounding teeth has deteriorated, where bone loss of 50% or higher is visible on oral radiographs, and many teeth are loose. Your pet is not only in severe pain, but also at risk of losing multiple teeth, as well as systemic infection and damage to internal organs, due to bacteria from the mouth entering the bloodstream and spreading throughout the body. Pain can also be severe at this stage.

Dog

Cat

Person

How is it treated?

Long procedure
Tooth extraction necessary (sometimes all the teeth)
Recovery is much longer, with food restrictions, stronger pain relief and antibiotics required.

Why is there a difference in price between the different grades?

The main reason for price differences comes down to the length of the procedure.

More advanced dental disease means more complexity and longer procedures for your pet.
For example: Grade 3 and 4 dental procedures involve:
Extra instruments
Extracting teeth
Longer anaesthetic times
Local anaesthetic nerve blocks
Antibiotics
Anti-inflammatories
Strong pain relief
Material and instruments to stitch the gums.

Why can't you tell me exactly what all this will cost?

Your dental procedure estimate may have a price range if your pet has been diagnosed between grades, e.g. Grade 2-3 dental disease. The extent of dental disease will not be clear until a full examination is done under general anaesthetic.
Most pets don’t respond to “open WIDE and keep it open ��”
The Vet may find "suspect teeth". These may need removal. A decision can only be made following the completion of dental radiographs that show what is happening below the gum line.
Your pet has been diagnosed with Grade 3 or 4 dental disease. The variation will be to accommodate for the number of possible extractions. The total cost of the procedure will only be known when the procedure has finished.

Chocolate Toxicity

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 03:37:37 GMT

Chocolate Toxicity

We all know that chocolate is not good for our pets, but sometimes want to know just how much is too much. This calculator from Petcare.com is a handy guide along with information about types of chocolate, symptoms of toxicity and treatment.

This is a guide only so be sure to contact us if you are concerned your pet has eaten any chocolate.

New Puppy

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 01:47:59 GMT

New Puppy

HEALTH CARE FOR YOUR PUPPY

Vaccinations

It is essential to protect your puppy against the major infectious diseases. Puppies require a course of three injections at: 6weeks – distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus; 8 weeks – distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus; 10 weeks – distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus and canine cough, then a vaccination annually/triennially for life.

Intestinal Worming

Dogs need to be wormed regularly to control roundworms, tapeworms, hookworms and whipworms. This is especially important as these worms can be transmitted to humans. Puppies should be wormed every two weeks until 3 months old, then every month until 6 months of age, then every 3 months for life. Supermarket and pet shop brands may not kill all types of worms, so please ask for our advice.

Heartworm

Heartworm is a type of worm that lives in the heart and blood vessels and is spread by mosquitoes. There are a number of options available for heartworm:

Option 1: Monthly heartworm prevention from 3 months of age for life (Advocate, Revolution, Milbemax, Panoramis, Sentinel, Simparica Trio, Nexgard Spectra).

Option 2: Monthly worming from 3 months of age with Milbemax (covers both intestinal and heart worms) until 6 months of age, then give proheart at 6 months, 15 months (coincides with booster vaccination) and then annually. (Our preferred option).

Option 3: Proheart injection at 3 months, 6 months, 15 months and then annually.

Desexing

Both male and female dogs make better pets if they’re desexed. Apart from the risk of unwanted puppies a female dog that is not desexed has and increased risk of developing mammary tumours and life-threatening uterine infections. Entire male dogs are more likely to wander, be more aggressive and develop the habit of lifting their legs and urinating everywhere another male has marked. They are also at a higher risk of developing prostatic or urinary medical problems. Desexing has no harmful effects on your dog’s personality.

Fleas

A monthly top spot (Advantage, Advantix, Revolution) or oral tablet (Comfortis) is available for the prevention of fleas on your animal. Some products available also treat worms (except tapeworm), mites/lice, heartworms (Sentinel, Comfortis Plus, Advocate, Simparica, Nexgard Spectra, Simparica Trio). Some also protect against mosquitoes/flies and ticks (Nexgard Spectra, Advantix, Bravecto, Simparica Trio).

Nutrition

Puppies’ stomachs are small, but their energy requirements are high. Consequently they should eat small, frequent feeds. Provide a diet that is complete, balanced and especially formulated for puppies (Advance Puppy, Royal Canin Puppy). If your puppy is a large/giant breed please feed them the giant/large breed version of these foods. Puppies will stay on a puppy diet until they are roughly 12 months of age. There is no need to provide milk. Many puppies are lactose intolerant and feeding cow’s milk can cause diarrhoea. Ensure your puppy always has a good supply of fresh, clean water.

Dental Health

Although a balanced and complete commercial diet provide the correct nutrition for your puppy, they do little to keep your dog’s teeth clean. Only mechanical action can prevent tartar build up occurring on teeth. Dry foods provide some mechanical action and are better than wet food as wet food get stuck in the teeth/mouth. We recommend when feeding bones, feed whole raw meaty bones. Never feed cooked bones, cut bones or small bones as these can splinter or be swallowed whole which could cause obstructions or pierce the gut. We recommend not to feed your puppy bones until all their adult teeth have come through, this could be anywhere from 6-9 months. Brushing your dog’s teeth and the use of certain toys designed for dental care are other options available.

Identification

It is a requirement by law that all dogs are registered with the Toowoomba Regional Council within 14 days of the dog becoming 12 weeks of age. Microchipping between the age of 8 and 12 weeks is also a legal requirement. A microchip is a device implanted under the skin and that carries a unique number that is linked with the owner’s details. It is implanted under the skin for permanent identification. This number is different to the council registration and can be read with a microchip reader. It is also advisable to provide an identity tag that has the dog’s name, your name and telephone number.

Health Care Timeline

Desexing

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 00:47:39 GMT

Desexing

Desexing or neutering your pet is a surgical procedure that prevents them from being able to reproduce. In male pets it is commonly referred to as “castration”, and in female pets as “speying”. This is the most frequent surgery performed by our vets, and generally your pet is home by the evening of surgery.

The most common age to desex your pet is between 6 and 18 months, however they are never too old to be desexed.

There are many benefits to desexing your pet. They include:

Preventing unwanted litters, which can be very costly, and may add to the already overwhelming number of stray animals that are put down each year
Prevention of testicular cancer and prostate disease in males, and it can help prevent pyometra (infection of the uterus) and mammary tumours (breast cancer) in females
Stopping the “heat” cycle in females. Female dogs will start to cycle soon after 6 months of age.
Decreasing aggression towards humans and other animals, especially in males
Being less prone to wander, especially in males
Reduction of council registration fees

If you own a large breed dog, with an expected adult weight greater than 20kg, we recommend delaying desexing until at least 12-18 months of age where possible. This decision obviously needs to take into consideration your pets personal environment and if early breeding can be avoided. Age of desexing is an evolving discussion with each patient having individual recommendations, dependant on breed, temperament and lifestyle.

New studies suggest early desexing may affect long term bone growth and conformation in larger breeds, predisposing them to orthopaedic conditions later in life.

New research also suggests waiting to desex dachshunds until 12months of age may also decrease the risk of Intervertebral disk disease.

What to do before and after surgery

Before surgery:

Make a booking for your pets operation.
If your pet is a dog, you can wash them the day before surgery as they are then unable to be washed after until the stitches are removed.
You can give you pet an evening meal as normal the day prior to surgery, but do not leave food out overnight. Water should be freely available to your pet until 8 am on the day of surgery.
A blood test may be performed prior to surgery to check vital organ function.
The vet will perform a thorough physical examination before administering an anaesthetic.
Intravenous fluid therapy is required during most types of surgery. This will be discussed with you prior to the procedure.
To ensure your pet is as comfortable as possible, all pets receive pain relief as part of the desexing procedure, and we may prescribe medication for you to administer at home for a few days after the procedure.

After surgery:

Keep your pet restrained and quiet as the effects of anaesthetic can take some time to wear off completely.
Keeping them quiet is also essential to allow the wound to heal.
Food should be limited to small portions only on the night of surgery. Follow any dietary instructions that the vet has provided.
Ensure all post-surgical medications (if any) are administered as per the label instructions.
Ensure your pet’s rest area is clean to avoid infection.
Check the surgical wound at least twice daily for any signs of infection or disruption (e.g. bleeding, swelling, redness or discharge). Contact the vet immediately if any of these occur. Do not wait to see if they will spontaneously resolve.
Prevent your pet from licking or chewing the wound. Special cone-shaped collars assist with this problem. A single chew can remove the careful stitching with disastrous effects.
Ensure you return to us on time for routine post-operative check-ups and removal of stitches.

If you have any concerns before or after your pet has been desexed, please call us immediately to discuss.

New Kitten

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 01:56:05 GMT

New Kitten

HEALTH CARE FOR YOUR KITTEN

Vaccinations

It is essential to protect your kitten against the major infectious diseases: panleucopenia, chlamydia, herpesvirus and calicivirus. Kittens require a course of two injections, one at 8 weeks and then one again at 12 weeks.

If your cat is going to be outdoors we recommend that they be vaccinated against Feline Aids. Feline Aids is a virus that is contracted through being bitten by a FIV positive cat. This infection is carried in the system for life and as the disease progresses the immune system becomes too weak to fight infections or diseases. FIV is incurable and if the cat contracts secondary infections it is possible they could die. The FIV vaccination is a course of three injections, one at 8 weeks, 10 weeks and 12 weeks.

Worming

All cats need to be wormed regularly to control roundworms, hookworms and tapeworms. Kittens should be wormed every two weeks until 3 months old, then every month until 6 months of age, then every 3 months for life . Supermarket and pet shop brands may not kill all types of worms, so please ask for our advice.

Fleas

Monthly top spots ( Advocate, Revolution) are available for the prevention of fleas & worms on your cat. Some top spots also treat intestinal worms (except tapeworm), heartworm and ear mites (Advocate, Revolution)

Nutrition

Kittens’ stomachs are small, but their energy requirements are high. Consequently they should eat small feeds frequently. Start with 4 meals per day, and reduce to 2 meals per day by about 12 weeks of age. Provide a diet that is complete, balanced and especially formulated for kittens (Advance Kitten, Optimum Kitten). Kittens will stay on a kitten diet until they are roughly 12 months of age. There is no need to provide milk. Many kittens are lactose intolerant and feeding cow’s milk can cause diarrhoea. Ensure your kitten always has a good supply of fresh, clean water.

Dental Health

Although a balanced and complete commercial diet provide the correct nutrition for your kitten, they do little to keep your cats teeth clean. Only mechanical action can prevent tartar build up occurring on teeth. Dry foods provide some mechanical action and are better than wet food as wet food get stuck in the teeth/mouth. We recommend chewing on raw chicken necks or wings 2-3 times a week. Never feed cooked or cut bones as these can splinter or be swallowed whole which could cause obstructions or pierce the gut. Brushing your cats’ teeth is also another option.

Desexing

Both male and female cats make better pets when they are desexed. Entire female cats come into season frequently until they become pregnant. An entire female can also learn the habit of urine spraying to attract feral males, who could spread diseases such as feline AIDs. Entire male cats are more likely to wander and fight increasing the risk of developing abscesses and contracting feline AIDs. Entire males also develop the habit of urine spraying, a habit that can be difficult to break once acquired. Desexing is recommended at 5-6 months of age.

House Training

Many kittens are already at least partially house-trained before they go to their new home, and only need to be shown where the litter tray is. Select a quiet, protected area to keep the tray as cats are very private. Always keep the litter tray in the same place. Be patient with your kitten for the first few weeks and never punish the cat as this will only exacerbate the problem. Cats are very meticulous and some will not use a soiled tray so do not expect your kitten to use it if you do not clean the tray and provide clean, fresh litter. Some cats do not like the smell of disinfectants or detergents so always clean the tray with boiling water.

Identification

It is a requirement by law that all cats are registered with the Toowoomba Regional Council within 14 days of the cat becoming 12 weeks of age. Microchipping between the age of 8 and 12 weeks is also a legal requirement. A microchip is a device implanted under the skin and that carries a unique number that is linked with the owner’s details. It is implanted under the skin for permanent identification. This number is different to the council registration and can be read with a microchip reader. It is also advisable to provide an identity tag to go on the collar that has the cats’ name, your name and telephone number.

Health Care Timeline

Soft Tissue

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 00:53:47 GMT

Soft Tissue Surgery

Our veterinarians’ high level of expertise and our practice’s fully equipped surgical suite allows us to perform the vast majority of soft tissue surgical procedures that your pet may require. Soft tissue surgery encompasses any surgery that is not related to bones.

It includes procedures such as:

Desexing
Exploratory Laparotomies
Caesareans
Lump Removals
Biopsies
Wound stitch-ups
Removal of intestinal foreign bodies

....the list is endless!

A very common soft tissue surgery is the removal of lumps. Some lumps may require a biopsy prior to removal to help understand whether they are cancerous or not. This information assists us in planning the surgery accordingly to give your pet the best possible outcome. Once they have been removed we recommend sending them to our external laboratory for analysis.

Although most lumps are benign (not harmful), a minority are more serious (malignant). In the case of malignant (cancerous) tumours, early removal and an accurate diagnosis is extremely important to maximise the chances of a good outcome.

If you find a lump or bump on your pet please make an appointment to visit one of our veterinarians to discuss any surgery your pet may require.

Dentistry

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 01:00:50 GMT

Dentistry

Dentistry is a rapidly growing area of veterinary science. More and more we are understanding the significant effect dental health can have on the overall health of the animals we treat.

Just like humans, pets’ teeth need looking after too! The health of their teeth and gums has a significant impact on their overall quality of life. Imagine how your mouth would feel, and smell, if you never brushed your teeth. Imagine having a really bad toothache and not being able to tell anyone about it!

Dental disease typically begins with a build-up of plaque, consisting of bacteria, food particles and saliva components, on the teeth. Plaque sticks to the tooth surface above and below the gum line and if not removed will calcify into tartar (also known as calculus). This appears as a yellow-brown material on the teeth. Over time the plaque and tartar can result in periodontal disease, which results can result in irreversible changes to the teeth and supportive structures.

Periodontal disease can result in local problems, such as red and inflamed gums, bad breath, and the loss of teeth. There is also growing evidence that periodontal disease can be associated with disease in distant organs, including the heart, liver and kidneys. Ultimately, dental disease is more than just a cosmetic issue – it can be a cause of significant illness and pain in dogs and cats.

Common signs of dental disease include:

Yellow-brown tartar around the gum line
Inflamed, red gums
Bad breath
Change in eating or chewing habits (especially in cats)
Pawing at the face or mouth
Excessive drooling
Pain or bleeding when you touch the gums or mouth

If your pet is showing any of these signs of dental disease please book an appointment to see one of our veterinarians. Early assessment and action can save your pet’s teeth!

Some animals with dental disease may show no obvious signs particularly in the early stages. It is also important to remember that just because your pet is eating, it doesn’t mean they do not have dental pain.

How can I prevent dental disease?

Long-term control and prevention of dental disease requires regular home care. The best way to begin this is to acclimatise your pet from a young age.

Dental home care may include:

Brushing Teeth Daily: Just like us! This is the best form of dental hygiene. Pet toothbrushes and toothpaste are now available. Please do not use human toothpaste formulas as they are not designed to be swallowed and may be toxic to your pet.
Teeth Friendly Chews and Toys: Use dental toys, enzymatic chews, or teeth cleaning biscuits, all of which may help keep the teeth clean.
Special Dental Diets: Feed pets special dental diets. This can help reduce the accumulation of tartar.

As with most things in life, when it comes to dental disease, prevention is definitely better than cure. Regular and frequent attention to your pet's teeth may avoid the need for a professional dental clean under anaesthetic, and will also improve your pet's overall health.

What does a professional dental clean involve?

It is similar to a scale and polish done by a dentist for us, however, unlike us, our pets won’t sit still or open their mouth to allow a comprehensive examination or cleaning of their teeth. For this reason our pets need to have a general anaesthetic for a professional dental assessment and clean. Your pet will need to be assessed by one of our veterinarians.

The degree of dental disease will be assessed to determine what type of treatment is required.

The assessment will also include a physical exam, and possibly blood tests and urine tests to ensure they are healthy prior to having an anaesthetic. Once anaesthetised, we can give the teeth a thorough cleaning using our specialised dental equipment. When your pet goes home we will also discuss methods of reducing dental disease in the future.

If you have any questions about dental care or professional cleaning please do not hesitate to contact us.

Tick Control

Sun, 27 Oct 2024 03:51:38 GMT

Tick Control

Tick Control

The most common ticks infesting dogs in Australia are the paralysis tick, the brown dog tick, and the bush tick.

Ticks are becoming more prevalent in the local area due to the movement of wild animals and development occurring in the area. We have a wide range of preventative options in clinic to prevent paralysis ticks such as monthly Simparica or Bravecto which can be given every 3 months as an oral chew or every 6 months as a spot on. These products need the tick to bite the animal in order to absorb the medication which then kills the tick.

There is a new emerging tick borne disease call Ehrlichiosis which is currently affecting dogs in Northern Queensland, Western Australia and the Northern Territory. Ehrlichia canis is a parasite that lives within the brown dog ticks which can be spread to dogs with just one bite. This is a life-threatening disease which can cause fever, lethargy and bleeding disorders.

If you are planning on travelling with your dog to these areas we recommend using a regular systemic prevention PLUS a tick collar, such as Seresto, as a repellent.

Paralysis Ticks

The paralysis tick lxodes holocyclus is one of the most dangerous parasites that can affect your pet. Tick paralysis is estimated to affect tens of thousands of dogs and cats per year in Australia, with many animals dying. The greatest risk is associated with high numbers of adult ticks in spring and summer, but disease can be seen throughout the year. Paralysis ticks are found on the east coast of Australia, from northern Queensland to Victoria.

How does the paralysis tick cause toxicity?

After the tick has attached to the host animal it sucks blood and then secretes a toxin that can cause severe illness, or even death, in cats and dogs. Dogs and cats of any age can be affected.

Signs of tick paralysis include: loss of coordination in the hind legs (wobbly or not being able to get up) which may progress to the front legs, change in bark, retching, coughing or vomiting, loss of appetite, or laboured or rapid breathing. Any of these signs may indicate the presence of a paralysis tick. If your dog shows any of these signs you should seek veterinary attention as soon as possible.

Tips for reducing the risk of tick paralysis include:

The year-round use of effective tick control products for all dogs and cats that are living in, or travelling to, known paralysis tick regions.
Search your dog daily for ticks - although tick control products will greatly reduce the risk of tick paralysis, it only takes one tick to cause tick paralysis. For this reason, it is important to also perform daily tick searches on your pet.
Reduce exposure to ticks in the environment (e.g. clean up leaf litter and debris, minimise or restrict your pet’s access to bushy environments).
If you find a tick, remove it immediately, and seek veterinary attention.

Brown Dog Ticks and Bush Ticks

Brown dog ticks and bush ticks do not cause tick paralysis, but they can cause skin irritation and also transmit other important diseases e.g. Babesia parasites which invade the red blood cells of dogs causing anaemia (which can be fatal).

We are more than happy to show you how to do a thorough tick search and recommend appropriate tick control products for your pet. Please call us to discuss.

Ophthalmic Care

Sun, 27 Oct 2024 01:07:36 GMT

Ophthalmic Care

Ophthalmology is the specific area of pet care involving treatment of an animal’s eyes. For certain breeds, this service also involves the examination and certification of breeding dogs to verify their eyes are in good condition.

Eye examinations require specific equipment, such as an ophthalmoscope (a magnifying light to look into the eye). Our veterinarians can also use a special dye called fluorescein which fluoresces a green/yellow colour under UV light to identify any damage to the cornea (the clear layer at the front of the eye). We may also use a tonometer to check the pressure inside your pet’s eye which is raised with a condition called glaucoma.

Many eye conditions can be treated medically, however, specific conditions may require surgery.

Our practice is fully equipped to offer the following eye surgeries:

Enucleation (removal) of the eye for severe glaucoma or cancer cases
Entropion surgery to prevent eye damage from inward pointing eye lashes/eyelids
Ectropion surgery to correct outward facing lower eyelids
Eyelid tumour removal
Cherry eye surgery to correct a protruding third eyelid in dogs
Surgery to repair corneal ulcers (ulcers on the eye surface)

Our veterinarians can also refer your pet to a specialist veterinary ophthalmologist for specialised procedures such as eye ultrasound, vision testing or cataract removal.

Mites

Sat, 26 Oct 2024 03:53:53 GMT

Mites

Mites are small parasites that can live on, or in your pet’s skin.

Demodex

Demodex mites are actually a normal inhabitant of your dog’s skin. These mites live in the hair follicles of dogs and are passed from the mother to her pups during nursing. The dog’s immune system normally controls the number of mites, so that they cause no harm. Dogs can develop signs of disease if their immune system is unable to control the mite population. This most commonly occurs in young or malnourished dogs, or those with other diseases that compromise their immune system. Signs of disease due to Demodex mites include hair loss, thickening of the skin, and skin infections. Cats have their own species of Demodex, however signs of disease are much less common in cats compared to dogs.

Sarcoptes

Sarcoptes mites not only affect dogs, but can also be transmitted to humans. The mites easily pass from an infested dog to other dogs that are in close contact. Sarcoptes mites burrow into the skin, leading to intense itching, hair loss, and skin infections. Confirming a diagnosis of Sarcoptes mites can be difficult as the mites live within the skin. Your vet may need to examine a skin scraping under the microscope to identify the mites.

Ear Mites

As their name suggests, ear mites inhabit the ear canals and surrounding skin. Ear mite infestations can occur in dogs and cats, but infestation is more common in cats. Signs of infestation typically include skin irritation; scratching around the ears, head and neck; head shaking; the presence of an ear discharge that is dark and waxy (resembling coffee grounds) and an unpleasant odour from the ears. Your vet can diagnose ear mites by looking at a sample from the ear canal under the microscope.

Please contact us to discuss options to protect your pet against mites.

Orthopaedic Surgery

Sat, 26 Oct 2024 01:20:06 GMT

Orthopaedic Surgery

Orthopaedic surgery encompasses any surgery that is related to bones or joints. It includes procedures such as fracture repairs, ligament repairs and spinal surgery to name a few.

We are very fortunate to have access to a local travelling specialist surgeon Dr Tom Smith who regularly performs surgeries at our clinic.

Some Orthopaedic surgeries at our clinic may include:

Cranial cruciate ligament repair
Fracture (broken bone) repair
Amputations for severe injuries or bone cancer cases

Complicated orthopaedic cases, such as spinal surgery, may need to be referred to a specialist orthopaedic surgeon. Our veterinarians will assess each case individually and provide the best advice for you and your pet.

Canine Coronavirus

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 03:45:23 GMT

Canine Enteric Coronavirus

Canine Enteric Coronavirus - It is NOT Covid-19

Given the current interest in coronaviruses with the emergence of SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of COVID-19, we thought we would provide information on a not so new virus Canine enteric coronavirus (CCoV.2). Canine enteric coronavirus is a common pathogen of dogs and was first identified almost 50 years ago. There is no known zoonotic risk associated with CCoV.2.

In contrast to COVID-19, Canine enteric coronavirus causes gastrointestinal signs in dogs as opposed to respiratory illness.

Most canine coronavirus infections produce few clinical signs in dogs, with most adults dogs frequently asymptomatic with CCoV infection alone. Occasionally an infection may cause more severe symptoms, particularly in young puppies. The most typical sign associated with canine coronavirus is diarrhoea, typically sudden in onset, which may be accompanied by lethargy and decreased appetite. The stool is loose, with a fetid odor and orange tint. It may contain blood or mucus. The presence of co-infections, for instance both coronavirus AND parvovirus, bacterial or parasitic infection will mean the illness will be more severe.

Transmission of virus in most cases is by oral contact with infected fecal matter. A dog may also become infected by eating from contaminated food bowls or by direct contact with an infected dog. Incubation period from ingestion is 1-4 days, with duration of illness from 2-10 days. Dogs may then shed the virus for up to 6 months.

There is a vaccine available however due to the rarity of infections and mild clinical signs it is not currently included in our routine canine vaccinations. We will continue to monitor local infection rates and provide the vaccine if warranted or requested.

Please don't hesitate to contact us if you have any more questions.

Links below provide more detailed information.

Canine Corona Virus in Greyhounds March 2020 Fact Sheet

Canine Coronavirus Disease

Microchipping

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 02:02:03 GMT

Microchipping

A microchip is about the size of a grain of rice and is injected under your pet’s skin, usually on their back near the shoulders. It can be done during a normal consultation. The microchip is embedded with a code unique to your pet and is the most effective form of permanent identification. This code is placed onto a national computer database, so it is particularly useful in the return of lost pets. They can also assist where the ownership of an animal is in dispute. In some states of Australia microchipping of pets is now compulsory.

If you move address or change your contact details, make sure you update your pet’s entry on the pet registry.

If a pet is ever lost and is handed in at a veterinary clinic or animal shelter a microchip scanner is passed over the animal to reveal the unique code. The vet or animal shelter can then refer to the database to identify the name, address and phone number of the owner, so they can be reunited.

If your pet is not microchipped please give us a call to make an appointment to have one inserted. If you find a lost pet please call us to arrange a scan so we can reunite microchipped pets with their worried owners.

Health Checks

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 00:03:00 GMT

Dogs and cats age on average, age five to eight times faster than humans. By age two, most pets have already reached adulthood. At age four, many are entering middle age. By age seven, many cats and dogs, particularly larger breed dogs, are entering their senior years.

Because pets age so rapidly, major health changes can occur in a short amount of time. The risk of heart disease, arthritis, kidney disease, cancer, diabetes, obesity and other serious conditions all increase with age. Early detection is important and annual health checks can help your veterinarian diagnose and treat problems early, or even prevent problems occurring altogether, therefore enabling the best possible outcome for your pet.

Annual health checks also offer you a great opportunity to ask us about nutrition, behaviour or any other topics.

HEALTH CHECK LIST

The most important annual health screenings for dogs and cats:

Dogs and cats of all ages

Physical examination
Vaccinations
Parasite check
Heart check
Dental health check
Blood and urine test

Additional exams for senior dogs (7+ years)

Osteoarthritis check
Chest radiograph
Thyroid check

Additional exams for senior cats (7+ years)

Osteoarthritis check
Kidney disease screen
Thyroid check
Blood pressure check

Health Checks and Your Pets

Washing and Grooming

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 02:05:11 GMT

Washing and Grooming

Grooming is an important part of pet care. Depending on the breed, age,and health of your pet, grooming may even need to be a part of you and your pet’s daily routine. Many breeds require less grooming than this, but regular grooming always helps to keep your pet healthy and comfortable.

Some breeds like Poodles don't shed their hair effectivelyand require grooming by a professional every 6-8 weeks. Long haired cats can particularly benefit from regular grooming as it helps prevent the formation of knots in the coat and hairballs in the stomach.

Grooming at Home

We encourage you to also engage in regular grooming with your pet at home. There are numerous benefits of regular grooming, for example:

Decreased chance of skin problems.
Optimal skin cleanliness and comfort for you and your pet.
Improved monitoring of health issues like the presence of lumps or skin lesions, pain, or changes in temperament.
Enhanced behavioural routines with obedient submission during grooming periods.
Closer bonding with your pet through regular contact.

Professional Grooming Services

Taryn from "Creative Canines" is unfortunately no longer at our clinic on Thursdays and Fridays. Both her and her husband Derek are still highly recommended however so be sure to make the trip to their salon located in Main Street, Pittsworth.

Taryn's professional grooming service has many specialised grooming tools to enable her to tailor the grooming service to the particular needs of your pet. She specialises in breed style clips, creative colouring and grooming nervous and problem dogs. All grooms include: warm bath and flea rinse, conditioner, blow-dry and brush, nail clip and ear clean.

Please call the salon on 0437 924 897, or the mobile van on 0409 800 159 to make an appointment or visit the website, www.creativek9s.net, for more information.

In-Clinic Grooming

We currently don't offer a regular in house bathing/grooming service as believe it should be left to the professionals in their field, but if you are looking for a groomer please don't hesitate to contact us as we can point you in the right direction to a few different local groomers. We do stock medicated, allergy and natural shampoos and conditioners along with advice on your at home use.

We do provide in-house medical washes for pets requiring a medicated bath along with basic clipping services for cats and dogs that require sedation.

Please contact us for further information.

Specialist Referrals

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 01:24:32 GMT

Specialist Referrals

When an animal develops an unusual or more complex illness or injury, there is often a need for specialised expertise and equipment to properly diagnose and treat the problem. If your pet has a problem that requires this level of expertise we can refer you to a specialist that has earned our trust and confidence in order to give your pet the optimal chance of recovery.

Australian registered veterinary specialists undergo a rigorous training and examination process to obtain their qualifications, and like human specialists are considered to be the epitome of knowledge in their field. We work closely alongside the specialists and together can offer optimal care for pets that require this service.

Specialist veterinarians are independent from our clinic and set their own fees. It's a good idea to ask them about costs when you call to make an appointment.

Our sense of responsibility doesn't end just because you've taken your pet to a specialist. If you find yourself faced with difficult decisions regarding the recommended treatment, please don't hesitate to call us. We'll be pleased to help you evaluate your options.

We’re happy to discuss and organise a specialist referral if required by your pet.

Intestinal Worms

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 00:02:59 GMT

Intestinal worms are relatively common in many animal species including dogs, cats, rabbits, large animals, fish, reptiles and birds. Regular deworming is essential to ensure your pets remain healthy and to reduce the risk of some of these worms being transmitted to people.

Puppies and kittens are often the most susceptible to worm infestation. Intestinal worms are spread via dog faeces, so can be picked up anywhere from the backyard to the dog park. Puppies and kittens sometimes arrive at their new owner’s home with worms already present. In very young dogs, or if present in high numbers, intestinal worms can cause gastrointestinal disease, malnutrition and anaemia. Sometime there may be no obvious signs that your dog has intestinal worms.

Important intestinal worms that can affect Australian dogs are:

Intestinal Worms

Roundworm

Tapeworm

Whipworm

Hookworm

Frequent deworming will kill worms that are present but it is very easy for your pet to become reinfested and so it’s important to continue deworming your pet all year round. Some intestinal worm species can produce large numbers of eggs, for example roundworm can lay 200,000 eggs per day within five weeks of infestation. It’s important to maintain a regular deworming program for your pets to reduce eggs being shed into the environment.

Can you get worms from your dog?

The short answer is yes, many worms infesting dogs are zoonotic, meaning they can be transmitted from animals to humans. Different worms cause different diseases and each have their own symptoms. Whilst anyone can become infected by intestinal worms, children and the immunocompromised are at greater risk. One of the most important ways to reduce human exposure is regular deworming of pets.

How to reduce the risk of human exposure to worms:

Routine deworming for all pets in your household

Prompt disposal of pet faeces on a daily basis.

Ensure good hygiene, encourage children to wash their hands regularly (especially after playing in dirt or sandpits, playing with pets or prior to eating)

Prevent children from ingesting soil or pet faeces

Protect playgrounds, garden areas and cover sandpits

Always dispose of dog faeces in public parks and playgrounds

Prevent your pet from scavenging or hunting.

Please call us to discuss a deworming program for your pet.

Nail Clipping

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 02:09:03 GMT

Nail Clipping

Regular nail inspection, with clipping or trimming when required, should be part of the routine care of your pet. Whilst many outdoor pets will wear their nails down naturally, elderly and indoor pets will probably need some extra help.

The requirement for nail trimming can vary depending on breed, age, level of exercise and the environment in which your pet is kept. Working and herding breeds of dogs are active and generally have compact feet with well arched toes that angle the toenails downwards towards the ground. If these dogs are active on hard surfaces such as gravel, rock and concrete, their nails may not need trimming until they slow down with age and exercise less, however you will still need to attend to their dew claws (the little claws on the inside of their front legs that don’t touch the ground) regularly.

Other breeds may have nails that grow more forward than downward, and therefore no matter how much exercise they get on rough ground, it is unlikely they will wear down naturally. Some dogs may benefit from having the tips of their nails taken off once every week or two, however for most it will be longer than this, and you will have to decide what is right for your dog by inspecting its nails on a regular basis. Certainly if you notice a change in the sound of your dog's nails on hard floors this is a pretty good indication that it is time for a trim.

Cats also require nail clipping, with the frequency depending on their lifestyle. Indoor-only cats will need more regular nail trims whereas outdoor cats may naturally wear their nails and require less frequent trimming.

What happens if my pet’s nails get too long?

If a pet's nails are allowed to grow too long, they can split, break or bleed, causing soreness or infection in your pet’s feet and toes. Long nails can get caught and tear, or grow so long that they can curl backwards into a spiral shape that can make walking very painful for dogs (it's a bit like walking in shoes that are too small). Cats are able to retract their claws so this is less common for them, however cats do still need to have their nails regularly clipped (especially if they don't get much natural wear and tear).

Uncut nails may curl so far that they corkscrew all the way round and pierce the paw pad, leading to infection and debilitating pain. Nails should be inspected and/or trimmed on at least a monthly basis. If not, the quick can grow out with the nail, making it nearly impossible to cut properly. It is very important not to cut the quick of a nail as this is rich in nerve endings and very painful for the pet. If you do accidentally cut into the quick, pressing the nail into a bar of soap will effectively stop the bleeding. For pets with long quicks, in puppies and kittens with such short nails, or those with black nails which hide the quick, using a nail file can be a safer way to remove the sharp tips.

We have a variety of nail clippers that suit different pets - from the very small to the very tall.

Make an appointment today to have your pet’s nails checked. We can also teach you how to do it if you would prefer to cut them yourself.

Flea and Tick Control

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 00:02:59 GMT

Flea and Tick Control

Flea Control

Fleas can be distressing for your pet, however they are more than just a nuisance. Fleas can cause skin disease and transmit infectious or parasitic diseases, some of which can be transmitted to humans too. In some dogs, fleas can also trigger an allergic condition called flea allergy dermatitis (FAD), a skin disease that is intensely itchy and can result in hair loss and skin infections. In dogs with FAD, even a small number of fleas can cause intense irritation, meaning year-round flea control is essential!

The most common way pets pick up fleas is from the environment. Fleas rarely jump from pet to pet. Pets can pick up fleas from a walk, playing in the dog park, at the beach or even in the backyard.

Spotting fleas isn’t always easy – they are small and fast, and some dogs can show signs of severe itchiness and irritation when only a few fleas are present. The other thing to consider is that the adult fleas you see on your dog are only part of the problem. You may be surprised to learn that adult fleas (the ones you see) make up only about 5% of the total population. The remaining 95% (eggs, larvae and pupae) are found in carpets and bedding - in fact anywhere in your house! Each female flea can lay up to 50 eggs per day so it doesn’t take long for an infestation to take hold.

It is important to remember that fleas aren’t just a problem in the summer. Use flea control all-year-round. You, and your pet, will be happier for it.

Tick Control

The most common ticks infesting dogs in Australia are the paralysis tick, the brown dog tick, and the bush tick.

If you are planning on travelling with your dog to these areas we recommend using a regular systemic prevention PLUS a tick collar, such as Seresto, as a repellent.

How does the paralysis tick cause toxicity?

After the tick has attached to the host animal it sucks blood and then secretes a toxin that can cause severe illness, or even death, in cats and dogs. Dogs and cats of any age can be affected.

Tips for reducing the risk of tick paralysis include:

The year-round use of effective tick control products for all dogs and cats that are living in, or travelling to, known paralysis tick regions.
Search your dog daily for ticks - although tick control products will greatly reduce the risk of tick paralysis, it only takes one tick to cause tick paralysis. For this reason, it is important to also perform daily tick searches on your pet.
Reduce exposure to ticks in the environment (e.g. clean up leaf litter and debris, minimise or restrict your pet’s access to bushy environments)
If you find a tick, remove it immediately, and seek veterinary attention

Brown Dog Ticks and Bush Ticks

We are more than happy to show you how to do a thorough tick search and recommend appropriate tick control products for your pet. Please call us to discuss.

Paralysis Ticks

The paralysis tick (Ixodesholocyclus) is one of the most dangerous parasites that can affect your pet. Tick paralysis is estimated to affect tens of thousands of dogs and cats per year in Australia, with many animals dying. The greatest risk is associated with high numbers of adult ticks in spring and summer, but disease can be seen throughout the year. Paralysis ticks are found on the east coast of Australia, from northern Queensland to Victoria.

Heartworm

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 02:14:56 GMT

Heartworm

Heartworm disease is a serious and potentially fatal disease seen in all mainland states of Australia. Dogs are more susceptible to heartworm infestation than cats, and heartworm disease also tends to be more severe in dogs. Adult worms live within the heart and large blood vessels where they can grow to more than 30 cm in length. Heartworm larvae, more commonly called microfilariae, can also be found circulating in an infected dog’s blood.

How is heartworm in dogs spread?

Heartworms are transmitted from one dog to another by mosquitoes, which pick up the tiny microfilariae when they bite an infected dog. The microfilariae develop in the mosquito and are transmitted when the infected mosquito bites another dog. The heartworm larvae then migrate through the dog’s tissues and circulatory system, eventually reaching the heart and lungs where they grow into adult heartworms.

Why is heartworm disease dangerous?

Heartworm may cause no clinical signs in the early stages of infestation, but as the worms grow and mature, they can interfere with the normal circulation of blood. This can result in signs of heart failure, and in some cases may lead to sudden death.

Thankfully, heartworm is very easy to prevent and should form part of your pet health care routine.

If your pet has not been on heartworm prevention we strongly recommend you speak to us about a heartworm test prior to starting a prevention program.

Boarding Advice

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 02:12:38 GMT

Boarding Advice

Going on holidays soon?

Before considering whether to board your pet please check their vaccination records to make sure they have been vaccinated within the past 12 months. If your pet is due for a booster vaccination make sure this is done well ahead of the boarding period. It is a good idea to contact the boarding facility to check their policy as to how soon before boarding a vaccination can be administered.

When choosing a boarding facility, there are a number of factors to consider, such as:

How big are individual kennels?
Is there any natural light?
Will your pet have access to a run during the day?
How many kennels are there in the complex? Fewer kennels may mean a quieter, calmer stay.
Do the kennels smell bad? If so, this can indicate poor hygiene or ventilation problems.
Are the staff/owners welcoming, friendly and polite?
Did they require proof of vaccination? Vaccinations help prevent the spread of disease.
Are there signs of overbooking or overcrowding?
Do they provide food or can you provide your own pet’s specific diet?
Can they medicate dogs if required?
Which veterinarian do they use in an emergency?

You will need to inform the boarding facility of any health problems your pet may have had or is prone to. If medication is to be administered you should let them know at time of booking. Write down the dose, frequency and name of medication.

If on long term medication, please ensure you bring along extra just in case. Please provide the boarding facility with our details in the event that your pet needs veterinary attention in your absence.

An ideal boarding facility for your pet has a relaxed, calm atmosphere, created by having fewer kennels/animals, a design that minimises stress and allows maintenance of a high standard of hygiene.

Please give us a call to discuss boarding and determine if your pet is up to date with the required vaccinations.

Behavioural Advice

Sun, 20 Oct 2024 02:17:12 GMT

Behavioural Advice

Behavioural problems can be due to behavioural causes, medical causes, or both. Our veterinarians will investigate behavioural problems by obtaining a full history and conducting a full examination (sometimes your pet may require blood or urine tests to rule out underlying medical conditions) to accurately diagnose a problem. Behavioural problems are often the combined effect of many factors, including your pet’s environment and learning.

Genetics can also predispose your pet to some behaviours, however the expression of those behaviours will depend on your pet’s early socialisation and training.

Changes in the environment may contribute to the emergence of behavioural problems. For example, changes in routine, a new member of the household (pet, baby or spouse), moving house, or the loss of a family member or pet can have a dramatic impact on behaviour. Any medical or degenerative changes associated with ageing may cause the pet to be even more sensitive to these environmental changes.

Learning also plays a part in many behavioural problems. Early training and socialisation is essential to have a happy, well-adjusted pet. Punishment of behavioural problems often worsens the situation and it is very important that professional advice is obtained as soon as the problem appears to effectively resolve it. Positive reinforcement is the preferred method for changing behaviour, however this also needs to be used carefully as it can encourage undesirable behaviour if used incorrectly.

How are behavioural problems treated?

There is no simple cure for any behavioural problem, so be careful when taking ‘’helpful’’ advice. For example, many people with a destructive dog are given the advice to get another dog to fix the problem, however, they may end up with two destructive dogs! It is very important that the cause of the problem is addressed, not just the symptoms of the problem. For example don’t chain a dog up because it is digging; find out the reason for the digging and treat the dog accordingly.

When it comes to your pet’s behaviour, it is extremely important to seek the advice of a qualified veterinarian or animal behaviour specialist. Changing problem behaviour requires commitment on behalf of the whole family, as everyone your pet interacts with will be responsible for encouraging desirable behaviour. For some problems such as barking, escaping, aggression, or separation anxiety it is beneficial to see the pet in its natural environment, thus a home visit may be appropriate. Some cases may also require medications alongside the new training techniques to get the best outcome.

For this and other behavioural problems we advise you contact us to make an appointment with one of our veterinarians.

Cat Vaccination

Sun, 20 Oct 2024 00:39:25 GMT

Cat Vaccination

Vaccination has revolutionised control of infectious disease in our pets. It is essential that all pets are adequately vaccinated to help protect the pet population as a whole. Responsible pet care requires kittens to be given their initial course of vaccinations, but this cannot protect them for the rest of their lives. Adult cats require regular vaccination to maintain immunity against disease.

Please give us a call to discuss a suitable vaccination program for your pet kitten or cat.

Kitten Vaccination

Kittens are ‘temporarily’ protected against many diseases by antibodies received through their mother’s milk. These maternal antibodies decline in the first couple of months of their lives, after which vaccinations are required to induce immunity against disease. A series of vaccinations is necessary for a kitten to adequately stimulate the immune system.

Initial vaccination programs should provide at least two vaccinations 3-4 weeks apart against some or all of the following: feline panleukopenia virus, feline calicivirus, feline herpesvirus, Chlamydia felis and feline leukaemia virus at or after 8 weeks of age. Three vaccinations, 2-4 weeks apart, against feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) are recommended at or after 8 weeks of age for cats who will have any form of outdoor access.

Adult Cat Vaccination

The immunity from kitten vaccination weakens over time and your pet can again become susceptible to disease. Annual health checks and booster vaccinations will provide the best protection for the life of your pet.

After Vaccination Care

Following vaccination some cats may be off-colour for a day or two, or have a slight swelling or tenderness at the injection site. Access to food and water and a comfortable area to rest are usually all that is required for a quick recovery. If the response seems more severe or persists, you should contact us for advice.

Infectious Diseases of Cats that we Can Vaccinate Against

Feline Panleukopenia Virus (also known as Feline Enteritis or Feline Parvovirus)

This is a very contagious disease and the death rate is high, especially for young cats under 12 months of age. Pregnant cats may lose their young or give birth to kittens with abnormalities such as brain damage. Symptoms of feline panleukopenia are depression, loss of appetite, uncontrollable vomiting and diarrhoea, often with blood and severe abdominal pain.

The virus spreads so easily that heavily contaminated areas may need cleaning with a special disinfectant.

Feline Respiratory Disease (‘Cat Flu’)

90% of ‘cat flu’ cases are caused by feline herpesvirus (also known as feline rhinotracheitis) and/or feline calicivirus.

Feline respiratory disease affects cats of all ages, especially young kittens. It is highly contagious and causes sneezing, coughing, runny eyes, nasal discharge, loss of appetite and tongue ulcers.

Fortunately, the death rate is low except in young kittens, but the disease is distressing and clinical signs may persist for several weeks. Recovered cats can continue to carry and spread the infection for long periods, and can show signs of the disease again if they become stressed.

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)

Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) attacks a cat’s immune system, similar to HIV in humans. Infected cats’ natural defence against other diseases may be seriously affected, much in the same way as human AIDS.

It is important to note that FIV is not transmissible to humans.

FIV is almost always transmitted by bites from infected cats, since the virus that causes the disease is present in saliva.

While some infected cats show no sign of disease, others may display initial symptoms such as fever, loss of appetite, diarrhoea, lethargy and swollen lymph nodes.

As the disease progresses, symptoms may occur such as weight loss, sores in and around the mouth, eye lesions, poor coat and chronic infections.

Eventually, the immune system may become too weak to fight off other infections and diseases. As a result, the cat may die from one of these subsequent infections.

Unfortunately in Australia, FIV is very common, with 1 in 7 cats with outdoor access infected with this virus.

Feline Leukaemia Virus (FeLV)

The virus attacks the immune system and may be associated with lack of appetite, weight loss and apathy, pale or yellow gums, vomiting, diarrhoea, reproductive problems, increased susceptibility to other infections, leukaemia and tumours. Many cats may be infected and show no signs at all.

About one third of infected cats remain chronically infected and may shed virus in their saliva, tears, nasal secretions and urine. The disease is then spread to uninfected cats through close contact (e.g. shared food/water bowls, mutual grooming), fighting, sneezing or even flea bites.

Chlamydia felis

Chlamydia felis is a bacterial disease which is responsible for up to 30% of conjunctivitis in cats, and causes severe and persistent signs.

Kittens are more commonly affected by Chlamydia felis when also infected with “Cat Flu”, and Chlamydia felis can be shed for many months. Vaccination against cat flu and Chlamydia felis helps protects against clinical disease.

Nutritional Advice

Sat, 19 Oct 2024 02:19:43 GMT

Nutritional Advice

Along with regular exercise and veterinary care, careful nutrition is the best way you can contribute to your pet's prolonged good health.

These are the basic nutrients every pet needs:

Water is the most essential nutrient in any diet. Your pet's body is made up of approximately 70% water and will quickly perish without it. Ensure your pet can access fresh, clean water at all times.
Carbohydrates supply energy and help energise the brain and muscles, making your pet bright and active.
Fats also supply energy and in the right amounts help build strong cells and promote nutrient absorption. Too much fat however, can lead to such obesity-related health problems such as diabetes, heart disease and osteoarthritis.
Proteins are required for a healthy coat, skin, and nails. Your pet's body uses the amino acids in proteins to make enzymes and hormones in the blood stream and to maintain a healthy immune system. Proteins can come from plant and meat sources, but cats and dogs need a high-quality animal protein.
Vitamins and minerals help regulate many body systems. For example, your pet needs the minerals calcium and phosphorous for strong bones. Antioxidant vitamins like vitamin E and C help boost your pet's immune system during times of stress.

How do you make sure your pet's diet is healthy?

We strongly recommend that you:

Feed premium pet foods. Premium foods offer high-quality ingredients, are made by companies specialising in nutritional research, and show a solid track record of quality and palatability. Feeding poor quality pet foods may lead to obesity, irregular bowel movements, or excess intestinal gas.
Make sure the food is fresh. When you purchase pet food, check for freshness and purchase only the amount necessary for your pet. Store pet food in a cool, dry place and in a food container it tightly closed. Discard uneaten food and always place fresh food in a clean bowl. In general, hard food (or "kibble") is preferred for maintaining dental health and minimising tartar build-up. Soft, canned food tends to be more palatable and can be stored for longer.
Feed the right amount. Ask us or check the label for how much to feed according to your pet's ideal weight (not necessarily the same as their current weight). Avoid feeding pets as much as they want or feeding a large amount at one time. Doing so can lead to obesity, gastrointestinal upset, or even bloat, a life threatening condition.
Maintain a daily routine. A regular schedule will help your pet keep normal bowel movements and avoid indoor accidents. Younger pets need to be fed more frequently, as they are usually more energetic and burn more calories.
Avoid "people" food. Feeding table scraps will result in an unbalanced diet, can cause stomach upsets or even life-threatening inflammation of the pancrea. Some human foods like rasins and chocolate are also toxic to dogs.

Life Cycle Feeding

Your pet's nutritional requirements will change as they age. Puppies need puppy food because it is higher in energy, calcium and protein, but feeding it to an adult dog can lead to obesity. Likewise, older pets need diets restricted in fat and supplemented with fibre for their optimum health. Many premium senior diets also contain additives to assist in the management of arthritis and can make your pet more comfortable.

Remember, you are what you eat, and the same goes for your pet!

Please give us a call to discuss your pet’s nutritional needs. We can tailor a diet specifically for your pet that will give them the optimum quality and length of life.

Dog Vaccination

Sat, 19 Oct 2024 00:39:26 GMT

Dog Vaccination

Vaccination has revolutionised control of infectious disease in our pets. It is essential that all pets are adequately vaccinated to help protect the pet population as a whole. Responsible pet care requires puppies to be given their initial course of vaccinations, but this cannot protect them for the rest of their lives. Adult dogs require regular vaccination to maintain immunity against disease.

Please give us a call to discuss a suitable vaccination program for your pet puppy or dog.

Puppy Vaccination

Puppies are temporarily protected against many diseases by antibodies received through their mother’s milk. These maternal antibodies decline in the first few weeks of their lives, after which they need a vaccination to induce immunity. The age at which maternal antibodies drop enough to require vaccination is highly variable, which is why a series of vaccinations is necessary in a puppy.

Adult Dog Vaccination

The immunity from puppy vaccination weakens over time and your pet can again become susceptible to disease. Annual health checks and booster vaccinations, as required, will provide the best protection for the life of your pet.

After Vaccination Care

Following vaccination your dog may be off-colour for a day or two, or have some slight swelling or tenderness at the injection site. Access to food and water and a comfortable area to rest are usually all that is required for a quick recovery. However, if the response seems more severe, you should contact us for advice.

Infectious Diseases of Dogs That we Can Vaccinate Against

Canine Parvovirus

Canine parvovirus is a disease that affects dogs of all ages but is most common in young dogs. The virus attacks the intestines causing bloody diarrhoea, uncontrollable vomiting and severe abdominal pain. Some infected dogs will die from parvovirus, even if they receiveintensive veterinary care.

Parvovirus is spread via dog faeces and is very persistent in the environment even after the faeces has been cleaned away. For this reason, it is not necessary to have direct contact with other dogs for the disease to be spread. The virus is so persistent that an infected dog’s environment needs to be cleaned with a potent disinfectant to prevent spread to other dogs. Outbreaks occur regularly especially in summer, with an estimated 20,000 dogs infected every year in Australia.

Canine Distemper Virus

Canine distemper is a highly contagious viral disease that can affect dogs of any age with young puppies being at highest risk.

Symptoms vary but can include fever, coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of appetite and depression. Muscle tremors, fits and paralysis may occur later in the disease. Treatment is usually ineffective and the recovery rate very low. Dogs that do recover may have permanent brain damage.

Canine Cough

Canine cough is a condition produced by several highly infectious viruses and bacteria, which can be easily spread wherever dogs congregate, such as parks, grooming salons, doggy day care, shows, obedience schools and boarding kennels. Among the infectious agents associated with canine cough is the bacterium known as Bordetella bronchiseptica and the canine viruses parainfluenza, adenovirus type 2 and distemper.

Affected dogs have a dry hacking cough which can persist for several weeks. It is distressing for pet dogs and their owners. It is a major problem for working and sporting dogs. Pneumonia can also be a consequence of infection, particularly in young animals .

Canine Leptospirosis

Canine leptospirosis is a serious disease risk in some areas and can cause high death rates. This bacterial disease is spread by the urine of infected rats and is usually transmitted to dogs who ingest contaminated food and water (e.g. drink from puddles), dogs who eat rats or from rat bites.

There’s an increased risk where high rat populations exist such as in cities, near rubbish dumps or around sugar cane areas. Incidence can also increase after long periods of wet weather or building activity, when rat populations are forced to move or concentrate. Leptospirosis is a ‘zoonotic disease’ meaning it is an animal disease that can be passed to humans.

Human infection can occur through ingestion of contaminated food or water, or through open wounds.

Infectious canine Hepatitis (also known as Canine Adenovirus type1)

Infectious canine hepatitis is a viral disease which, like distemper is extremely contagious and often fatal. Dogs of any age can become infected, however severe cases are rare in dogs over two years of age.

Symptoms include high fever, depression, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhoea and acute abdominal pain. In severe cases death can occur within 24 to 36 hours. Dogs that recover may develop long-term liver and kidney problems and can act as carriers spreading the disease to other dogs for many months.

Canine Coronavirus

Canine coronavirus is another contagious virus and causes depression, loss of appetite, vomiting and diarrhoea especially in young dogs.

Diarrhoea may last for several days in some cases. Although most dogs will recover with treatment, coronavirus has the potential to be fatal, especially if other infectious agents such as parvovirus are present.

Clinical Pathology

Fri, 18 Oct 2024 03:42:33 GMT

Clinical Pathology

Clinical pathology involves the laboratory evaluation of blood, bodily fluids or body tissues in order to identify existing disease. Common laboratory tests include blood chemistries, complete blood counts, blood clotting times, urinalysis, faecal tests, biopsy examination, cultures and infectious disease testing.

Our animal hospital is equipped with an in-house laboratory that allows our veterinarians to quickly perform many of these diagnostic tests to achieve an accurate and rapid diagnosis. This is especially important in very ill animals and those requiring immediate or emergency treatment. Some more specialised tests may need to be performed by an external veterinary laboratory.

Our in-house laboratory can provide results on the same day. Specialised testing may take longer, especially if the sample is sent to an external laboratory. External laboratory results are usually obtained within 12-24 hours for blood results or up to 14 days for biopsy results, depending on the nature of the test being performed. Ask your veterinarian when to call for your pet’s laboratory results.

Pet Insurance

Fri, 18 Oct 2024 02:26:40 GMT

Pet Insurance

Pet insurance is becoming more and more popular in Australia. It offers you peace of mind as it covers some or all of the treatment costs if your pet gets involved in an accident or suffers a sudden illness. There is no equivalent of Medicare for pets, so treatment costs can exceed out-of-pocket expenses for a similar condition in a human.

Did you know that 24 hour emergency and critical care for animals can cost over $1,000 per day?

Some surgeries such as repair of fractured bones or exploratory surgery can also add up to thousands of dollars and that’s before including recovery and aftercare treatment. It is a heartbreaking situation to have to choose between the health of your pet and financial constraints, so for peace of mind we strongly recommend that your pet is insured.

There are several companies that offer pet insurance and we can help you find one that best suits your needs and your pet.

What does pet insurance cover?

Individual packages vary in the type of treatment covered. However, they usually include most accidents and unexpected illnesses. You need to consider the differences between policies, in particular the claim excess amount, proportion of treatment costs covered, annual claim limit, age restrictions, pre-existing illness exclusions and policy costs. The best time to think about insurance for your dog or cat is when they are young and healthy (puppy, kitten or young adult). Every pet is prone to certain types of illnesses and injuries in each stage of life.

Here at Westbrook Veterinary Surgery, we are an accepted partner of Trupanion, which means we can be paid directly at time of visit.

We highly recommend pet insurance and encourage you to discuss it with us at your next visit.

Ultrasound

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 03:42:34 GMT

Ultrasound

Our clinic is equipped with the use of an ultrasound machine for basic imaging such as pregnancies, uterine infections and bladder examinations. It may also be of use for us for other abdominal imaging such as ascites (fluid in the abdomen) or abdominal masses or tumours.

As ultrasound is a learned and often specialist diagnostic tool, depending on the type of ultrasound your pet requires it may need referral for a complete and thorough exam at a specialist hospital.

Please ask us for more information.

Dog Care

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 02:33:25 GMT

Dog Care

Owning a dog provides companionship, loyalty and affection for people of all ages and is an invaluable addition to families and individuals.

However, it is important to find the breed of dog most suitable to your particular lifestyle and be aware of the responsibility that comes with dog ownership before you adopt or purchase a dog. As your vet, we are willing to discuss the many aspects of dog care, including breed-specific medical problems and routine health care such as vaccinations, flea, tick and mite control, desexing and worming that your future dog may need.

After purchasing your puppy or dog, there are several important aspects of their care to consider:

Pet Insurance

We strongly recommend that you insure your new dog. Please see our information sheet on insurance for more about this topic.

Bedding

Suitable bedding such as washable rugs, cushions or blankets need to be provided in a weatherproof kennel or indoors.

A Secure Area

A secure area such as a dog-proof yard is essential. Your dog should never be left unsupervised when tethered.

Daily Exercise and Mental Stimulation

All dogs need daily exercise and mental stimulation to help avoid behavioural and health problems. Dogs view their human owners as being part of their pack and can develop behavioural issues if they feel neglected or excluded. It is also vitally important that dogs are socialised with people and other dogs from an early age in order to learn appropriate interactive behaviours.

Regular Health Checks

All pets require a minimum of one health check a year. On average, dogs age five to eight times faster than humans, allowing major health changes to develop in a relatively short amount of time. The risk of cancer, diabetes, obesity, arthritis, heart disease and other serious conditions all increase with age. Regular vists to our clinic helps us diagnose, treat or even prevent health problems before they become life-threatening. Routine vaccinations and parasite control for fleas, ticks, mites, heartworm and intestinal worms are also recommended. A visit to us is also a good opportunity to ask about nutrition, behaviour, and other issues.

Nutrition

Nutrition is an important part of your dog’s care. A healthy and balanced diet is essential. This will provide protein to build the body; fats for skin and coat health; carbohydrates for energy; and minerals and vitamins for good bone development and healthy tissues.

Regular Dental Care

It is essential to keep your dog’s teeth clean. A regular dental homecare routine will minimise tartar build-up on your pet’s teeth. Never give your dog cooked bones, as these can be brittle and easily splinter, causing harm to your dog.

Water Intake

Fresh water must always be available for your dog. Bowls should be kept clean and placed in the shade.

Grooming

Grooming and brushing is essential, particularly for long-haired breeds. This helps remove dust, dead skin, loose hairs, grass seeds, and tangles and it also assists to shorten the coat moult, which occurs seasonally. Dirty or smelly dogs should be bathed. However, keep in mind that frequent shampooing can strip the natural oils from the coat and cause skin dryness and irritation.

Our staff are always keen to discuss routine health are for your current or future pets. For further information about pet care, please phone our helpful staff during business hours.

Radiography

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 01:24:19 GMT

Radiography

Our hospital is fully equipped to take radiographs (often called x-rays) of your pet. Our veterinarians will discuss your pet’s case and conduct a thorough physical examination to determine if your pet requires radiographs. Radiographs are a very important tool to help us diagnose diseases in animals, particularly for conditions involving bones, the chest or abdomen.

What happens to my pet when it is booked in for radiographs?

Most of our patients are admitted into hospital for the day to have radiographs taken, unless it is an emergency and we’ll take them immediately. We ask that you bring your pet in unfed on the morning of admission, as they will most likely be sedated or anaesthetised to allow us to take the best quality radiographs possible.

Once the radiographs have been taken we will give you a call or book an appointment for our veterinarians to show you the images and to discuss the diagnosis and treatment plan for your pet.

Why do pets need to be sedated or anaesthetised to have radiographs taken?

When we have radiographs taken the radiographer asks us to keep perfectly still, often in unnatural positions. Most pets would never lie still enough, in the correct position, for us to take good quality radiographs required to diagnose their condition. Sedation and anaesthesia allow us to get the most useful radiographs possible.

How are radiographs made?

Taking a radiograph is very similar to taking a photo, except we use x-rays instead of light rays. Different tissues in the body absorb x-rays to differing degrees. Of all the tissues in the body, bone absorbs the most x-rays. This is the reason that bone appears white on a radiograph.

Soft tissues, such as the heart, kidneys or other organs, absorb some but not all of the x-rays, so they appear on a radiograph in different shades of grey. The air-filled lungs absorb relatively few x-rays so appear dark grey or black on a radiograph. We will demonstrate and explain the radiographs when your pet goes home.

How do I...?

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 04:07:33 GMT

How do I...?

Emergency Care

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 03:42:35 GMT

Emergency Care

During opening hours we can cater to most emergency situations, even if it is just the initial stabilisation which may require later referral to a specialist hospital. Common emergencies relate to car accidents, heart conditions, snake and tick bites, poisoning and a range of injuries. Please phone us if possible to let us know you are coming, so we can be as prepared as possible for your arrival.

After Hours

We are fortunate to have 24/7 access to REDvets emergency service in Toowoomba.

REDvets Toowoomba - (07) 4602 0652

2 Margaret St, East Toowoomba QLD 4350

Upon arrival, your pet will be assessed by one of our veterinarians. We will aim to provide an estimate of the costs involved with your case, however, please be aware that with emergency procedures costs can vary depending on what services and treatments are required. Our veterinarians will keep you updated regularly during the course of your pet's stay in hospital. In some cases we may need to refer to a veterinary specialist centre or 24-hour emergency facility.

Please contact us to discuss our after-hours arrangement, it’s always nice to know this information before you actually need it.

Cat Care

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 02:40:13 GMT

Cat Care

Cats can make excellent companions and are wonderful pets. However, with an average lifespan ranging from 15-20 years, owning a cat is a long-term commitment and their needs must be carefully considered.

Before you bring your cat or kitten home, we suggest you contact your local council and enquire about local regulations regarding such things as night curfews, compulsory containment within a property, desexing and microchipping.

A cat’s housing needs are simple. Whilst they will usually find a corner that suits them best indoors or outdoors, provide them with a basket, box or chair in a place where they feel safe and protected. Increasingly, cat owners are using cat enclosures to provide a safe outdoor area for cats. Placed in a weatherproof area, and these netted enclosures keep them safe from fights with other cats in the neighbourhood and protect local wildlife from cats’ natural hunting instincts.

For indoor cats, it can be a good idea to provide a scratching post to keep their claws in good condition and reduce the chances of your furniture being scratched.

Cats like to be clean at all times. As a result, cats can easily be toilet trained if a litter tray filled with a suitable cat litter is available. The litter tray should be cleaned daily to remove faeces and the litter itself changed frequently. Ensure the litter tray is placed in a quiet and private location. You may even need multiple trays if you have more than one pet cat. A good rule of thumb is one tray for each cat plus one extra.

All cats need to exercise. As cats naturally like climbing and perching themselves up high, trees and fences, for example, provide good opportunities for them if they have outdoor access. Indoor cats, however, will use furniture to climb and perch. Once again, having a scratch pole or indoor cat gym will give an indoor cat an effective alternative. Providing higher perching locations will also give your cats a more enriched environment.

Most cats require grooming assistance from their owners to remove excess hair. This helps in the reduction of furballs/hairballs and matted or tangled fur, which if left, may result in a visit to us. Except at moulting time, short haired cats are able to groom themselves adequately. In contrast, long haired cats require daily grooming by their owners. Furballs or hairballs can cause appetite and weight loss, and in a worst case scenario, result in surgery. During the moulting season daily brushing is essential and food designed specifically to assist with the reduction of hairballs will also help your cat process shed hair. Unlike dogs, you should not need to bathe a cat under normal circumstances.

When it comes to feeding, most cats like to graze, so we recommend offering small amounts often. Young, healthy cats require a high protein and fat diet. There are many formulations of cat food available and we recommend discussing your cat’s individual nutritional needs with us to choose the most suitable formula. Older cats and those with certain medical conditions may require a prescription diet, which we can discuss with you as part of a treatment plan.

Ensure a fresh water bowl is accessible at all times, especially if they have a dry food diet. We recommend that you avoid offering cow's milk for your cat to drink, as this can cause stomach upsets.

Cats require a minimum of one health check per year. Regular visits help us diagnose, treat or even prevent health problems before they become life-threatening. Routine vaccinations, worming and flea control form the basics of feline medical care. We can also provide additional guidance on nutrition, behaviour, training and life-stage treatments available.

We welcome you to book an appointment with us to discuss how to keep your cat in optimum mental and physical health.

Glossary Terms

Sun, 13 Oct 2024 03:14:36 GMT

westbrook-vets

Arthritis Tips for Ageing Pets

With Winter on its way we want to help our oldies be a little more comfortable through the colder months.

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Dental Disease in Your Pet

Lets Talk Teeth !!!

Dog

Cat ﻿

Person

Grade 2 - Moderate

Dog

Cat

Person

Grade 3 - Major

Dog

Cat

Person

Grade 4 - Severe

Dog

Cat

Person

Chocolate Toxicity

Chocolate Toxicity

New Puppy

New Puppy

HEALTH CARE FOR YOUR PUPPY

Health Care Timeline

Desexing

Desexing

What to do before and after surgery

New Kitten

New Kitten

HEALTH CARE FOR YOUR KITTEN

Health Care Timeline

Soft Tissue

Soft Tissue Surgery

Dentistry

Dentistry

How can I prevent dental disease?

What does a professional dental clean involve?

If you have any questions about dental care or professional cleaning please do not hesitate to contact us.

Tick Control

Tick Control

Ophthalmic Care

Ophthalmic Care

Mites

Mites

Orthopaedic Surgery

Orthopaedic Surgery

Canine Coronavirus

Canine Enteric Coronavirus

Microchipping

Microchipping

Health Checks

HEALTH CHECK LIST

Dogs and cats of all ages

Additional exams for senior dogs (7+ years)

Additional exams for senior cats (7+ years)

Health Checks and Your Pets

Washing and Grooming

Washing and Grooming

Specialist Referrals

Specialist Referrals

Intestinal Worms

Intestinal Worms

Nail Clipping

Nail Clipping

Flea and Tick Control

Flea and Tick Control

Heartworm

Heartworm

Boarding Advice

Boarding Advice

Behavioural Advice

Behavioural Advice

Cat Vaccination

Cat Vaccination

Nutritional Advice

Nutritional Advice

Dog Vaccination

Cat