Articles
Field notes on caring for the pets you love.
Page 11
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A Complete Guide to Caring for Border Leicester Sheep
Border Leicester sheep are a highly regarded longwool breed, well-known for their role in producing productive crossbred ewes like the Scottish Mule. They are distinguished by their upright ears, Roman nose, and large size. Originating in the late 18th century along the English-Scottish border, they were bred for their crossing ability, size, and growth rate. Key features include their calm temperament, adaptability, and valuable wool. Effective housing, feeding, and health care are important, while their strong maternal skills and rapid growth make them a staple in crossbreeding systems, especially in the UK. Border Leicesters provide reliable and versatile contributions to sheep farming.
Sheep Livestock -
What Fruits Can Ducks Eat?
Feeding fruit to ducks can be healthy if done correctly. Ducks enjoy fruit like apples, pears, and berries, but it should only make up 5–10% of their diet due to high sugar content. Always remove seeds and stones, and avoid citrus and avocado as they are harmful. Small, prepared pieces are ideal, and fruit should be a treat rather than a staple. Overfeeding fruit can cause health issues. Introduce fruit to ducklings slowly and in tiny amounts. Maintaining a balanced diet is key for duck health and egg laying.
Poultry -
Peritonitis in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention
Peritonitis in dogs is a serious condition involving inflammation of the peritoneum, often due to infection or injury. It can lead to severe illness if untreated, causing symptoms like abdominal pain, lethargy, and vomiting. Early and appropriate veterinary care, which may involve emergency stabilisation, surgery, or medical management, can aid recovery. Preventing peritonitis involves monitoring dogs closely, avoiding harmful objects, and seeking quick treatment for injuries or infections. With timely intervention, many dogs can recover fully from peritonitis.
Dogs -
A Complete Guide to Owning a Pygmy Wood Scorpion
The Pygmy Wood Scorpion (Babycurus jacksoni) is a small scorpion from East Africa, popular for its active nature and mild venom. Ideal for beginners, it only grows to 4-5 cm, needing a small, escape-proof enclosure. Keep it in warm, slightly humid conditions with a 15x15x15 cm setup, using coconut fibre or soil as a base. Feed it small crickets or fruit flies weekly and provide hydration through a shallow dish or light misting. Avoid handling, as it prefers to flee. Ensure a naturalistic home to keep it healthy, and buy from reputable breeders. It's affordable, with the scorpion costing £15–£35 and monthly food expenses of £3–£8.
Exotic -
Why Do Cats Knead?
Kneading is a common cat behaviour where cats press their paws on soft surfaces like blankets, cushions and laps. Known as 'making biscuits', it starts in kittenhood as it helps kittens get milk from their mothers. Adult cats knead for comfort, to mark their territory using scent glands in their paws, and to create cosy sleeping spots. While some cats keep their claws in while kneading, others extend them, and some may even drool when deeply relaxed. Although most cats knead as a sign of contentment and trust, it can sometimes occur during stress. Regularly trimming your cat’s claws and using a thick blanket can help make kneading comfortable. Kneading is an instinctive behaviour linked to a cat's early life, showing their trust and affection.
Cats -
Asian Water Monitor: The Powerful Predator of the Tropics
The Asian water monitor (Varanus salvator) is a large reptile found across South and Southeast Asia. It thrives in both land and water environments, requiring ample space, warmth, and water for swimming. This intelligent lizard is known for its adaptability and can be seen in both rural and urban settings. In captivity, it demands a substantial enclosure with adequate heating, humidity, and lighting. Its diet consists of fish, rodents, and crustaceans. Asian water monitors recognise their keepers and enjoy enrichment activities, making them suitable only for experienced keepers. They are long-lived, reaching up to 25 years, and present a rewarding challenge for those prepared to meet their needs.
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Do Horses Really Need Shoes?
Shoes for horses can be necessary depending on workload, environment, and hoof quality. Horses evolved to manage their hooves naturally, but today, shoes can offer protection and support. On hard surfaces, shoes reduce hoof wear, discomfort, and risk of slipping. Horses in competitive disciplines or carrying heavy loads may need shoes for extra support and traction. Some horses benefit from therapeutic shoeing for conditions like laminitis or injuries. While the barefoot approach is popular, not all horses can manage without shoes. Individual assessment by professionals ensures each horse's comfort and health in hoof care.
Equines -
Spring Dangers to Dogs
Spring brings longer days and warmer weather, offering more outdoor fun with dogs. However, it also introduces risks to canine health like toxic plants, seasonal allergies, and active parasites. Watch out for harmful flowers like daffodils and lilies, as well as spring allergens. Fleas and ticks become more active, and grass seeds can cause infections. Adders may pose a threat in certain UK areas, while garden chemicals and barbecues present additional hazards. Rising temperatures can lead to overheating, and open windows increase escape risks. Practice safe measures like checking for ticks, securing gates, and avoiding chemicals to keep dogs healthy in spring.
Dogs -
A Complete Guide to Keeping Warren Chickens
Warren chickens are a popular choice for UK's backyard poultry keepers due to their high egg production and friendly nature. They are a hybrid breed known for producing 280–320 eggs annually. Warrens are medium-sized, with a lifespan of 3–5 years, and lay light to medium brown eggs. They adapt well to UK weather and are suitable for beginners due to their hardiness. For housing, provide at least 0.3 square metres per bird in the coop and ensure good ventilation. Warrens need a balanced diet with layers pellets, grit, and calcium supplements. Health issues like egg peritonitis and mites require attention, and Warrens thrive with regular human interaction. During winter, keep their coop dry and provide deep bedding. Egg production may decrease in winter. When introducing Warrens to a flock, do so gradually, following local UK poultry laws and biosecurity guidelines.
Poultry -
The Complete Guide to Keeping Panther Crabs
Panther Crabs, or Parathelphusa pantherina, are colourful freshwater crabs native to Lake Matano in Indonesia. They require specific tank conditions, with a recommended minimum tank size of 60 litres and a preference for a rock-heavy aquascape. These crabs thrive in warm, mineral-rich waters with stable temperatures between 26–30°C, and a pH of 7.5–8.5. Despite their fully aquatic nature, they need hiding spots to reduce stress. Panther Crabs are territorial and are best kept singly or as a monitored pair, with a species-only setup being the safest option. Their diet includes meaty foods and plant-based sources. Proper care involves regular water changes and stable conditions to support moulting. Lifespan ranges from 5 to 7 years, and they are suited for experienced aquarists familiar with specialised setups.
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Antifreeze Poisoning in Cats
Antifreeze poisoning is a serious threat to cats in the UK, especially in winter. Just a small amount of antifreeze with ethylene glycol can be fatal. Cats can be exposed through leaks from cars, spills, or contaminated surfaces. Symptoms like lethargy and vomiting can progress quickly, leading to kidney failure. If you suspect antifreeze exposure, contact a vet immediately. Prevention includes checking for leaks, using pet-safe antifreeze, and storing it securely. Winter increases risks due to more vehicle use. Awareness and quick action are crucial to protect your cat from this dangerous poison.
Cats -
Understanding and Treating Fish Lice
Fish lice, or Argulus, are visible parasitic crustaceans that attach to aquarium and pond fish, causing irritation, blood loss, and infections. Recognisable by their flat, oval shape, fish lice symptoms include visible parasites, flashing, red bite marks, and lethargy. Effective treatment involves improving water quality, physically removing lice, treating with medication like Diflubenzuron, and monitoring for infections. Quarantine new fish for 2-4 weeks and disinfect equipment to prevent reinfestation. Seek expert help for severe cases. Understanding the lifecycle and proper system treatment can keep the environment healthy and parasite-free.
Aquatics