Pets

Question: We have a large, black cat who is usually very outgoing. Recently he has become afraid of everything, even the fridge door! He runs away and hides in any dark space. What is wrong with him? Kitty, via e-mail. Answer: Dear Kitty, If your “spooked-out puss” goes outside, maybe a new cat on the […]

Question: I have a Staffy who is a six-month-old female. What is the right age for her to be desexed? Rose, via e-mail. Answer: Dear Rose, If you’ve made the decision that you don’t want to breed your dog, then you can have her done any time now. She will have to stay in hospital, […]

A Dalmatian dog is instantly recognisable, thanks to its distinctive spotted coat. These handsome dogs sport spots everywhere – even inside their mouth and on the bottom of their paws! The Dalmatian was used as a carriage dog in 19th century England because the breed had a special affinity with horses and could keep up […]

Most cat owners will have had the “interesting” experience of taking their cat on a car trip. Many cats don’t like travelling at all but sometimes it has to be done, whether it be a trip to the vet or moving house. There are few things you can do to make a car trip with […]

The Hungarian vizsla is an athletic dog whose sleek appearance and distinctive gold coat makes them stand out in a crowd. Definitely a dog that likes to feel part of the family, the vizsla is known for its sensitive, loving personality. A breed originating in, you guessed it, Hungary, the vizsla was a sporting companion […]

Question: To keep your kitten passive when trimming its claws, put a clothes peg on the loose skin at the back of its neck. Answer: This makes the kitten feel as if its mummy is gripping it. Kerri Hudson, via e-mail.

Question: I have a beautiful one-year-old English chinchilla who is constantly scratching, mainly on my couch (which he is ripping into threads), but also on the carpet. He does have a scratching pole and lots of toys to play with, but he prefers the furniture. I have tried a number of different products on the […]

Question: Never know if your cat has swallowed their tablet? Answer: Once the tablet has been given to them, wait until they lick their lips and the tablet is gone – until then, they will spit it out! Leigha, via e-mail.

Question: My Irish setter pup, 12 months, loves eating charcoal. She just eats straight from the cold fireplace as much as she can. Part of her daily diet is eating grass. Can charcoal cause any problems or is this a natural thing for dogs to do? I’ve never seen any other of our dogs do […]

Question: I have recently bought a cockatiel and although she was hand raised, when you put your hand down for her to hop up onto, she usually bites you. Is there anything I can do to stop this habit? Nadine, via e-mail. Answer: Nadine, Your little feathered friend may have previously been frightened or handled […]