Articles
Field notes on caring for the pets you love.
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A Complete Guide to Raw Feeding for Cats
Raw feeding for cats is gaining popularity in the UK as it mimics their natural diet. While it can offer benefits like improved coat, digestion and hydration, it also carries risks such as bacterial contamination, nutritional imbalances and bone hazards. A balanced raw diet should include meat, bones, organs and sometimes supplements. Options include commercial raw meals, homemade diets and prey-model diets. It is crucial to maintain strict hygiene and follow expert advice. Raw feeding might not be suitable for all cats or households, especially where there are people with weakened immune systems. Consultation with a vet is advised for safe practice.
Cats -
A Complete Guide to Owning a Chilean Desert Scorpion
The Chilean Desert Scorpion is a hardy invertebrate suitable for beginners and intermediate keepers interested in desert arachnids. Native to Chile's arid regions, it requires a simple, well-ventilated enclosure with a dry, sandy substrate and minimal decoration. Maintain temperatures between 22–28°C and keep humidity below 40%. Feed them live prey weekly and provide a shallow water dish. Avoid handling to reduce stress and risks. They are legal to keep in the UK, recommended to purchase from reputable breeders. Costs are minimal, making them an economical option for enthusiasts.
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Placentitis in Horses: Causes, Signs, Treatment, and Prevention
Placentitis is a common condition in mares that leads to late-term pregnancy issues like abortion and stillbirth. It occurs due to inflammation or infection of the placenta. Types include ascending, diffuse, and nocardioform placentitis, each with specific causes. Poor hygiene, stress, and bad vulvar conformation can increase risk. Early signs include unusual udder development and vaginal discharge. Diagnosis involves ultrasound and blood tests. Treatment includes antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, and hormonal support. Prevention focuses on good hygiene, vaccination, and monitoring. Early detection can result in healthy foals, but the condition can reoccur in future pregnancies.
Equines -
Why Do Dogs Eat Their Poo?
Coprophagia is when dogs eat poo, either their own or another animal's. It's more common in puppies and isn't always a sign of illness. Reasons include instinctual behaviour from their wild ancestors, nutritional deficiencies, attention-seeking, stress, curiosity, and environmental cleanliness. Medical issues like digestive problems or infections may also cause it. While usually not a concern, sudden increases, weight loss, or obsessive behaviour warrant a vet visit. To stop it, improve your dog's diet, provide more activities to prevent boredom, reduce stress, clean up waste promptly, and consider dietary deterrents. Consult your vet if needed.
Dogs -
The Complete Guide to Keeping Red Claw Crabs
Red Claw Crabs, native to Southeast Asia, are popular semi-aquatic pets for aquarists. These small crabs, known for their red claws, require a balanced brackish habitat with both land and water areas. Key care tips include maintaining water salinity, proper humidity, and providing hiding spots to support moult cycles. They are territorial, so careful planning is needed for tank mates and social interaction. Typically, they live for 2–2.5 years and are suited for those experienced with semi-aquatic setups. With their vivid nature, Red Claw Crabs add character and colour to any paludarium.
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A Complete Guide to Keeping the Common Pheasant in the UK
Learn all about keeping Common Pheasants in the UK, a popular game bird with vibrant plumage. This guide covers their history, housing, feeding, and breeding requirements. Understand UK laws on pheasant management and welfare, and discover tips for maintaining healthy birds, controlling predators, and supporting the environment. With proper care, pheasants can be a valuable part of British wildlife and countryside conservation.
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Christmas Hazards in the Home for Cats
Keep your cat safe this Christmas by being aware of potential hazards. Common festive dangers for cats include toxic foods like chocolate and raisins, harmful plants like lilies, and decorations like tinsel and fairy lights. Ensure your Christmas tree is secure, and keep dangerous items out of reach. Provide your cat with a quiet space and be cautious with scented products and open doors. If your cat shows signs of ingesting something harmful, contact your vet immediately. These steps will help you protect your cat during the festive season.
Cats -
Why Do Dogs Eat Grass? Everything Dog Owners Need to Know
Dogs eating grass is common and usually normal. This behaviour may stem from natural instincts, enjoyment, digestible comfort, mild stomach upset, or diet. Grass is not harmful in itself, but risks like pesticides, parasites, or obstructions exist. Consult a vet if your dog shows signs of illness. Most cases are harmless, but consider a diet review if grass-eating is frequent. Avoid chemically treated areas and discourage obsessive grass-eating. Providing exercise, mental stimulation, and a balanced diet can help. Trust your instincts and consult your vet if concerned.
Dogs -
Understanding and Treating Skin Flukes in Aquarium Fish
Skin flukes are tiny flatworms that cause problems in aquarium fish. They are hard to see, but fish often show signs like rubbing against objects, extra mucus, or looking tired. Skin flukes can harm fish by damaging their skin and making them more likely to get other infections. They spread easily, so it is important to get rid of them quickly using specific treatments like Praziquantel. Keeping the tank clean and quarantining new fish helps prevent them from coming back. If problems persist, it may be necessary to seek help from an expert. Keeping fish healthy involves regular checks and making sure the water is clean and suitable for them.
Aquatics -
Managing and Preventing Matting and Tangling in Guinea Pigs
Guinea pigs, especially long-haired and curly-coated varieties, need regular coat care to prevent matting and tangling, which can cause pain and skin issues. Common causes include long coats, dirty bedding, and lack of grooming. Breeds like Peruvian, Texel, and Alpaca are particularly prone to matting and require daily grooming. Use tools like wide-toothed combs and safety scissors, and follow a gentle grooming routine. Regular trimming helps reduce tangles. When mats occur, remove them carefully to avoid harming the skin. Proper bedding and nutrition also play a role in coat health. Seek veterinary help for issues like bald patches or unexplained hair loss.
Small Mammals -
Paraguayan Rainbow Boa: The Iridescent Jewel of South America
The Paraguayan Rainbow Boa is a striking snake known for its shiny scales. It is native to parts of South America such as Paraguay and Brazil, thriving in various habitats like dry forests and savannahs. It is robust and does well in moderate humidity environments, making it a good choice for experienced snake keepers. This boa is typically around 120–150 cm long and has a muscular build. It needs a spacious and stable enclosure with proper heating, humidity, and hides. The snake feeds on mice or rats, requires regular but gentle handling, and can live up to 15–20 years. It is a livebearing species, producing litters of 10–25 young. Its calm nature and attractive appearance make it a popular choice for snake enthusiasts.
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What Fruits Can Chickens Eat?
Chickens can enjoy fruit as a treat, but it should only make up 5-10% of their diet. Safe fruits include apples, pears, berries, grapes, bananas, melon, stone fruits, mango, and pineapple. Always remove seeds, stones, and pits to avoid toxins and choking hazards. Avoid citrus and avocado due to health risks. Feed fruit once or twice a week in small amounts, ensuring it is well-prepared and not left uneaten to prevent mould. Balance is important to maintain chicken health and egg production.
Poultry