Vaccinate your pet

Pets often get into scrapes and need help. Here are some common health conditions and what to do if you see the signs. If you need more information there are detailed articles below.

Pets can get skin conditions just like people, but it can be harder to spot under all that fluff, feathers or fur. Allergies, parasites and infections can all cause discomfort and be dangerous if not treated by a vet, so make an appointment to get the help they need.

Ear infections are very common. Here are the symptoms:

• Shaking the head
• Pawing at the ears
• Reddened or thick and scaly skin around the ear(s)
• Discharge or odor from the ear(s)
• Don’t want to be touched around the head.

An inflamed ear canal could be caused by something stuck in there, a parasite or infection. Make an appointment with your vet for an ear clean and medication.

Your pet may experience eye problems for a number of reasons. If it’s due to an allergy or minor injury, it will probably heal in a day or two. More moderate to severe symptoms need a diagnosis and treatment from your vet.

Look out for:

• Redness
• Discharge
• Swelling or puffiness
• Squinting
• Excessive blinking
• Rubbing or pawing.

Many pets get the zoomies and race around, or try and keep up when their physical fitness isn’t up to scratch. Mild lameness could be due to sore muscles or aching joints and ease in a day or two. If the problem persists make an appointment to see your vet as there could be a serious underlying condition.

There are many reasons your pet may develop a cough. Dust or smoke in the air can irritate delicate airways, they could eat or drink too quickly, or have side effects from medication. If a cough only lasts 24 hours it’s probably not a cause for concern. Keep an eye on your pet and see your vet if the cough persists.

Keep your pet at a healthy weight to reduce the risk of diabetes. Symptoms include:

• Excessive drinking
• Excessive urination
• Appetite loss
• Vomiting
• Dehydration
• Depression & lethargy
• Poor coat.

Get your pet to the vet if you see the signs.

Keep your pet at a healthy weight so they are less likely to suffer from arthritis. See your vet if your pet has joint stiffness or pain that lasts more than a few days.

There are many reasons your pet might vomit; eating too quickly or eating something they shouldn’t is very common. If the vomiting passes within 24 hours, it’s probably not a cause for concern, but if it’s severe or doesn’t improve quickly, head to your vet.