By Dr Diane Wilshaw, Lymm Veterinary Surgery
Q: How often will a dog need to visit a vet in their lifetime?
A: A dog will probably make more frequent visits to the vet in the puppy and senior stages of their life.
A puppy may be more likely to pick up illnesses due to having an immature immune system as well as eating anything in sight!! If your dog has an underlying condition, they will need medication reviews which need to be done approximately every 6 months. Even if your dog is healthy and has no underlying health issues, you should have an annual check-up and vaccination each year, to make sure they are fit and healthy.
Q: How do I make sure my cat is eating a balanced diet? I find it overwhelming finding suitable food for her because there is so much choice in the supermarket.
A: When choosing pet food, you should use a reputable brand and you can contact your vets who will be able to advise you. If your cat has an underlying condition that needs a special prescription diet, your vet will be able to give you advice on the most suitable food for your pet’s condition
Q: How often should I give my rabbit a bath?
A: The short answer is, as little as possible. If you bathe your bunny regularly you are stripping their coat of its natural oils which help to keep them warm and clean. Rabbits are also susceptible to pneumonia and other life-threatening diseases which could be triggered by being cold after a bath, so it is best to give them a spot clean and only if they really need it!
Q: My horse was playing in the field and slipped on a bit of mud. He is slightly lame, what should I do?
A: In a lot of cases lameness from playing in the field is harmless and will be resolved with rest, but in some cases more permanent damage may be caused. An equine vet will be able to decide on the best course of action to help them recover or whether they need to refer your horse for further investigation with a specialist.
Q: I’m getting a kitten! What is the first thing I should do when I bring her home?
A: Congratulations on your new kitten. Firstly, she should have a comfy, quiet place to settle into her new home. You should ask the place you are buying her from about the food she is currently fed, and the litter set up they currently use so that your kitten is familiar with it. You should also make sure that your kitten has had its relevant vaccinations and has been wormed and make an appointment with your vet to get her microchipped.
