PDSA Veterinary Pet Questions & Answers: Why is my goldfish trying to get out of the bowl?
Felines need a lot of exercise to stay healthy and happy. Many cats enjoy exploring the outdoors, which your cat may be happy to do on their own, but some like their owners to go with them. However, if your cat prefers to stay indoors, or you’re worried about protecting them from outside dangers, your four-legged friend can get the exercise they need indoors as well. If so, you can help them stay active through recess. Cats love to explore high places and hunt and pounce, so giving them a range of cat shelves or towers and fun toys they can hit, chase or jump on will keep them active and entertained. For more information you can visit www.pdsa.org.uk/cat-exercise
Dear PDSA Vet: I just brought home my new puppy, a collie called Susie. I have looked at pet insurance, but it seems very expensive. is it really worth it? Ronnie
When buying a new pet, insurance and registering with a veterinarian should be two of the first things you do. Pets can get sick just like people, but there is no NHS for pets, so it’s important to plan how you can afford the vet care Susie might need. Puppies are curious and love to explore everything, which can mean eating things they shouldn’t or injuring themselves, requiring veterinary treatment which could be costly. And even young puppies can develop conditions that require long-term treatment, which can lead to long-term expense, where pet health insurance is an absolute lifeline. While insurance may seem expensive, it should always be factored into your budget as a necessary cost when preparing to pick up a pet.
Dear PDSA vet: I have two goldfish, Pablo and Peter. After feeding, Pablo floats just close to the water’s surface for about six hours, but in the evening he’s back to swimming. What’s wrong ? Helen
Pablo might have a problem with his swim bladder, which is important for buoyancy and position in the water. Although there could be several causes, it can be related to his diet. If you feed food that floats on the surface of the water, goldfish may gulp air with excitement at the same time as they suck up their food. Improper diet can also mean gas builds up in the intestines, leading to problems with buoyancy. Give small amounts of runny pellets frequently throughout the day, so they don’t get too hungry. Remove all food scraps – fish should eat what they need within 3-5 minutes. If this problem persists, he will need a vet exam.
Dear PDSA Vet: I have heard a lot about lungworm recently and the fact that it can be caused by slugs and snails. What are the symptoms of lungworm? I think my dog ​​can have it but my vet doesn’t. How can I tell? Ciara
Lung worm is more and more common in the UK and can make your pooch seriously ill. Signs of lungworm include coughing, changes in your dog’s breathing pattern which are generally considered rapid, heavy, or loud, or changes in behavior – if your dog seems to be tired all the time or losing weight, it could be another red flag. Other symptoms can include unexplained bruising and bleeding. Preventing lungworm is much easier than treating it, so it is very important to include lungworm prevention in your regular deworming schedule. Talk to your vet about which treatments are best for your dog. For more information you can visit www.pdsa.org.uk/lungworm
PDSA is the UK’s largest veterinary charity. Our mission is to improve the well-being of companion animals through prevention, education and treatment. People’s Postcode Lottery player support helps us reach even more pet owners with essential advice and information. www.pdsa.org.uk