UK pet health information
Health & Care
Plain-English guides to conditions, symptoms and everyday care for UK dogs, cats and rabbits — every article reviewed against current UK veterinary guidance. Information only; not a substitute for seeing your vet.
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Adder Snake Bites in Dogs UK
UK guide — the adder is Britain's only venomous snake. Bite causes painful swelling — keep your dog still, do not suck the wound.
Adopting a Rescue Dog in the UK
Adopting a rescue dog in the UK — application, home checks, fees of £230–£300 at major rescues, the 3-3-3 settling pattern and the first weeks at home.
Alabama Rot in Dogs UK
Alabama rot (CRGV) in UK dogs — seasonal Nov–May risk, skin sores, kidney failure signs, wash mud off after walks, and when to seek urgent vet care.
Antifreeze Poisoning in Pets UK — Cats & Dogs
Antifreeze (ethylene glycol) kills cats and dogs. UK winter warning signs, time-to-symptom stages, Animal PoisonLine, and what to do immediately.
Bearded Dragon Care in the UK
UK bearded dragon care — UVB lighting, basking temperatures, humidity, diet by age and when to see an exotic vet. Basking spots should reach 38–42°C.
Bearded Dragon Not Eating? UK Vet Guide
Why UK bearded dragons stop eating — brumation, low basking temperatures, impaction, parasites and stress. When appetite loss means booking an exotic vet.
Can I Give My Cat Antihistamines? UK Guide
Never give human medicines to cats without veterinary guidance. Chlorphenamine (Piriton) is sometimes prescribed in the UK.
Bumblefoot in Pet Birds: UK Advice
Bumblefoot (pododermatitis) in pet birds — causes, sore feet symptoms, perch fixes and UK avian vet treatment. Check your bird's feet weekly.
Bird Care in the UK
UK bird care guide — species-correct diet (not seed alone), housing, common illnesses and when to see an avian vet. For budgies, cockatiels and parrots.
Pet Bird Diet in the UK: Safe Foods
Pet bird diet in the UK — pellets vs seed, fresh vegetables, and toxic foods to avoid including avocado, chocolate and caffeine. RSPCA ratios.
Egg Binding in Birds
Egg binding in pet birds — signs in budgies, cockatiels and parrots, first steps and when to call an avian vet in the UK.
Bird Hot Weather Safety UK
Can pet birds overheat in UK heatwaves? Cage placement, ventilation, signs of heat stress and when to see an avian vet. Move to a shaded, ventilated room.
Bird Moulting in the UK: Normal vs Not
Bird moulting explained — pin feathers, how often pet birds moult, diet and rest support, and the abnormal feather loss that needs a UK avian vet.
Psittacosis in Birds and Humans (UK)
Psittacosis (parrot fever) — bird symptoms, spread to humans, UKHSA guidance, and when to see an avian vet or contact your GP or NHS 111.
Bird Respiratory Infections in the UK
Respiratory disease in pet birds — tail bobbing, discharge, psittacosis awareness and when to see an avian vet in the UK.
Bird Winter Care UK
Pet birds in UK winter — avoiding drafts, stable room temperature, daylight hours, and when cold affects small parrots and budgies.
Bloat in Dogs (GDV)
Dog bloat (GDV) is a UK emergency. Swollen belly, unproductive retching, risk breeds, what vets do in surgery, and why you must not wait at home.
Blue-Green Algae Poisoning in Pets UK
Blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) kills UK dogs and cats within hours. Symptoms, stagnant water risks, Animal PoisonLine.
Budgie Care in the UK: Complete Guide
UK budgie care guide — cage setup, company, diet, taming and common health problems. Budgies live around 7–8 years and need daily flight time.
Budgie Breathing Problems in the UK
Budgie breathing problems — tail bobbing, clicking breaths, air sac mites and infection. UK guidance on emergency signs and avian vet care.
Can Cats Eat Bread UK?
UK guide — plain bread is usually safe in tiny amounts for cats. Why it is not nutritious, and when raisin or garlic bread is an emergency.
Can Cats Eat Cheese UK?
UK guide — a tiny bit of plain cheese is not toxic to most cats, but many are lactose intolerant. See cheeses to avoid and when to call your vet.
Can Cats Eat Chicken UK?
UK guide — plain cooked chicken is safe for cats. Raw chicken risks, bones, seasoning dangers, and how much is appropriate as a treat.
Can Cats Eat Ice Cubes UK?
UK guide — cats can have small ice cubes or chilled water in moderation. Supervise choking risk, never treat heatstroke with ice.
Can Cats Eat Milk UK?
UK guide — most adult cats are lactose intolerant. Cow's milk causes diarrhoea; safer alternatives and when kittens need specialist formula.
Can Cats Eat Tuna UK?
UK guide — occasional plain tinned tuna in spring water is usually safe. Daily tuna risks mercury, nutrient imbalance, and addiction.
Can Dogs Eat Apples UK?
UK guide — dogs can eat apple flesh in moderation. Remove the core and seeds, serve a few plain slices, and see risks, portions and when to call your vet.
Can Dogs Eat Avocado UK?
UK guide — avocado flesh is mildly toxic to dogs; pit and skin are choking hazards. Persin risk, symptoms, and safer treat alternatives.
Can Dogs Eat Bananas UK?
UK guide — dogs can eat banana in moderation. A few slices suits a small dog; skip the peel and dried chips. See portions and when to call your vet.
Can Dogs Eat Blueberries UK?
UK guide — blueberries are a safe low-calorie dog treat in moderation. Fresh or frozen is fine; mash for tiny dogs. See portions and when to call a vet.
Can Dogs Eat Bread UK?
UK guide — plain white or brown bread is usually safe in small amounts. Never feed mouldy bread, garlic bread, or raisin bread.
Can Dogs Eat Carrots UK?
UK guide — dogs can eat carrots raw or cooked. Cut into batons to stop choking; a frozen carrot soothes teething pups. See portions and when to call a vet.
Can Dogs Eat Cheese UK?
UK guide — most dogs can eat small amounts of plain cheese as a treat. Know lactose risks, high fat and pancreatitis links, and which cheeses to avoid.
Can Dogs Eat Chicken UK?
UK guide — plain cooked chicken is safe for most dogs; cooked bones are not. Raw chicken carries salmonella risk. See when to call your vet.
Can Dogs Eat Chocolate UK?
No — chocolate is toxic to dogs. UK theobromine risk by type, Easter eggs and baking cocoa, calculator, and when to phone Animal PoisonLine.
Can Dogs Eat Eggs UK?
UK guide — plain cooked eggs are safe protein treats for most dogs. Raw eggs carry salmonella risk; avoid seasoning, butter, and daily large amounts.
Can Dogs Eat Garlic UK?
UK guide — garlic is toxic to dogs despite myths about benefits. Same compounds as onion damage red blood cells. Call Animal PoisonLine if ingested.
Can Dogs Eat Grapes UK?
No — grapes, raisins, sultanas and currants can cause kidney failure in dogs. No safe amount. Calculator, mince pies, and Animal PoisonLine steps.
Can Dogs Eat Hot Cross Buns UK?
No — hot cross buns are toxic to dogs. Raisins have no safe dose and 1 bun can hold dozens. Phone your vet or Animal PoisonLine 01202 509000 immediately.
Can Dogs Eat Ice Cubes UK?
Can you give ice cubes to dogs in the UK? Yes for healthy dogs in moderation — but never if heatstroke is suspected. Never use ice as heatstroke treatment.
Can Dogs Eat Ice Lollies UK?
UK guide — dogs should not eat human ice lollies: sugar, xylitol, chocolate and grape flavours are common. Make dog-safe frozen treats at home instead.
Can Dogs Eat Mince Pies UK?
No — mince pies are toxic to dogs. Raisins have no safe dose and even 1 pie can cause kidney failure. Phone your vet or Animal PoisonLine 01202 509000 now.
Can Dogs Eat Onion UK?
UK guide — onions are toxic to dogs in all forms. Damage to red blood cells causes anaemia. Use our onion toxicity calculator and call Animal PoisonLine.
Can Dogs Eat Peanut Butter UK?
UK guide — plain peanut butter without xylitol is safe in small amounts for most dogs. Check every label, avoid sugar-free brands.
Can Dogs Eat Pork UK?
UK guide — plain cooked pork without seasoning is usually safe in small amounts. Avoid raw pork, cooked bones, fatty bacon, ham.
Can Dogs Eat Rice UK?
UK guide — plain cooked rice is safe for dogs and useful for bland diets after upset stomachs. White vs brown, portions, and when to call your vet.
Can Dogs Eat Strawberries UK?
UK guide — dogs can eat fresh strawberries in moderation. Wash, hull and chop for small dogs; avoid syrup and xylitol products. See when to call a vet.
Can Dogs Eat Sweet Potato UK?
UK guide — plain cooked sweet potato is safe for dogs. Serving tips, portions, and why seasoned or raw sweet potato should be avoided.
Can Dogs Eat Watermelon UK?
UK guide — dogs can eat seedless watermelon flesh in moderation. Remove rind and seeds, avoid overfeeding sugar. See when to call your vet.
Can Dogs Eat Yoghurt UK?
UK guide — plain live yoghurt in small amounts is usually safe for dogs. Lactose, xylitol risk, and when flavoured yoghurt is dangerous.
Can I Give My Cat Ibuprofen UK?
UK guide — never give ibuprofen or Nurofen to cats. Even one tablet causes kidney failure. Emergency steps and Animal PoisonLine contact.
Can I Give My Cat Paracetamol? UK Warning
Paracetamol is deadly to cats. UK owners — never give human painkillers. Learn why paracetamol kills cats and safe alternatives from your vet.
Benadryl for Dogs
How much Benadryl can you give a dog? A UK dosage chart by weight, plus safe uses, side effects, and the formulas you must never use.
Can I Give My Dog Paracetamol UK
Never give human paracetamol to dogs without vet instruction. UK guide to toxicity, mg/kg danger bands, Animal PoisonLine, and safe pain relief.
Can I Walk My Dog in Hot Weather?
When is it too hot to walk a dog in the UK? Use our temperature checker, the five-second pavement test, and heatstroke signs — then skip midday tarmac.
Can Rabbits Eat Lettuce UK?
UK guide — most lettuce is low value for rabbits; iceberg can cause diarrhoea. Safe greens, dangerous varieties, and why hay comes first.
Canary Care in the UK: Complete Guide
UK canary care — housing, song, diet, moult and health. Canaries often live 5–10 years; only males sing and they pause during the moult.
Arthritis in Cats UK
Recognising arthritis in UK cats — hiding lameness, reduced jumping and grooming changes. Vet NSAIDs, weight control and home comfort tips.
Bladder Stones in Cats UK
Straining to urinate, blood in urine and recurrent UTIs may signal bladder stones in UK cats. Types, diagnosis, surgery and diet management.
Cat Breathing Fast
Open-mouth breathing in cats is always abnormal — treat as an emergency. Fast shallow breaths at rest may mean asthma, heart disease, pain, or anaemia.
Cognitive Dysfunction in Cats UK
UK guide to feline cognitive dysfunction — dementia signs in senior cats, night waking, disorientation and vet-led management strategies.
Cat Constipation
Straining in the litter box without passing stool for over 48 hours needs vet care in cats. Obese and senior cats are at higher risk.
Cat Dandruff & Skin Problems
Cat dandruff — white flakes in the coat — often reflects dry skin, parasites, or allergies. See your vet for persistent flaking with itching or hair loss.
Cat Dental Care UK
UK cat dental care — brushing techniques, signs of tooth resorption and gum disease, and when your vet may recommend dental surgery.
Why Is My Cat Drooling Excessively?
Sudden heavy drooling in cats may mean nausea, mouth pain, or toxin exposure. Lilies, permethrin, and human medications are common UK cat toxins.
Cat Ear Mites: UK Signs, Treatment & Prevention
Ear mites cause dark coffee-ground discharge and intense head shaking in cats. They spread between cats and dogs. See when to call your vet.
Cat Eye Discharge
Watery eyes in flat-faced cats differ from thick yellow discharge of infection. Squinting or cloudiness needs urgent care — corneal ulcers are painful.
Cat Grooming UK
UK guide to cat grooming — brushing routines for long and short coats, preventing matting and hairballs. See when to call your vet.
Cat Hairballs
Hairballs are common in cats but frequent vomiting may signal a problem. Learn why cats develop hairballs, how to reduce them.
Cat Hot Weather Safety UK
Can cats overheat in UK heatwaves? Signs of heatstroke in cats, keeping indoor cats cool, and when to call your vet. Open-mouth panting needs urgent care.
Cat Limping: UK Causes & When to See a Vet
Cats hide pain well — any limp over 24 hours or non-weight-bearing on a leg needs a vet check. Common causes include bite abscesses, sprains and fractures.
Cat Not Using the Litter Box?
Why has my cat stopped using the litter box? Medical causes, stress, litter preferences, and step-by-step fixes. See when to call your vet.
Neutering Cats in the UK
UK guide to spaying and castrating cats — four-month campaigns, recovery care, weight tips and why neutering matters for welfare.
Cat Not Eating
When a cat stops eating, even for a day, serious complications can follow. UK guide to why cats refuse food, the 24-hour urgency rule.
Cat Obesity UK
UK guide to cat obesity — body condition scoring, feeding routines, activity for indoor cats and vet-led weight loss plans.
Cat Respiratory Infections UK
Sneezing, runny nose and eye discharge in UK cats often signal upper respiratory infection. Causes, home care and when to see your vet.
Cat Sneezing
Occasional sneezing is normal, but persistent sneezing with nasal discharge may signal infection, allergies, or foreign bodies.
Cat Spraying & Urine Marking UK
UK guide to cat spraying and urine marking — how it differs from litter tray problems, neutering, Feliway and when to see your vet.
Cat Straining to Urinate UK
A male cat straining in the litter tray is a UK emergency. Blocked bladder signs, FLUTD, what the vet does, and when not to wait until morning.
Cat Vaccination Schedule UK
UK cat vaccination schedule for kittens and adults — cat flu, enteritis, FeLV and booster timing explained with vet-focused guidance.
Unexplained Weight Loss in Cats
Cats losing weight while eating can have hyperthyroidism, diabetes, kidney disease, or cancer. Any unintentional loss deserves blood tests.
Cat Winter Safety UK — Cold, Cars & Antifreeze
Keeping UK cats safe in winter — outdoor access, antifreeze risk, bonnet checks, and when cold affects elderly cats. See when to call your vet.
Cat Worming Schedule UK
UK cat worming for kittens and adults — indoor vs hunters, tapeworm, fleas and lungworm. Use our cadence checker, then confirm products with your vet.
Chicken Health for UK Keepers
UK backyard chicken health — housing, biosecurity, common diseases and when to call a vet. Avian flu awareness for smallholders.
Chicken Heat Stress UK
Backyard chickens in UK heatwaves — coop ventilation, shade, water, panting signs and preventing sudden death from heat stress.
Chicken Winter Care UK
Backyard chickens in UK winter — coop ventilation vs draughts, frostbite on combs, unfrozen water, and egg laying in cold.
Chocolate Poisoning in Dogs
Chocolate is toxic to dogs. UK theobromine bands, dark vs milk vs baking, Easter and advent risks, calculator, and Animal PoisonLine steps.
CMA Vet Pricing Transparency UK
CMA 2026 UK vet remedies: standard price lists, £500+ written estimates, and the official 2026–27 timetable — not yet in force for every practice.
Cockatiel Care in the UK: Complete Guide
UK cockatiel care — housing, diet, taming, powder dust and night frights. Cockatiels often live 15–25 years and need daily social time.
Compost & Mould Poisoning in Pets UK
UK compost bin and mouldy food poisoning in dogs and cats — tremorgenic mycotoxins, symptoms, garden risks, and Animal PoisonLine after scavenging.
Corn Snake Care in the UK
UK corn snake care — vivarium sizing, a 28–30°C basking zone, 40–50% humidity, feeding frozen mice by age, handling and shedding guidance.
Diabetes in Cats
Feline diabetes causes increased thirst, weight loss, and lethargy — but many cats achieve remission with treatment. UK guide to insulin therapy, diet.
Dog Allergies and Itching
Persistent scratching, licking, and ear infections often point to allergies in dogs. Learn about environmental, food, and flea allergies.
Arthritis in Dogs UK
Recognising arthritis in UK dogs — limping, stiffness and reluctance to walk. Vet-approved pain management, weight control and mobility tips.
Dog Bad Breath
Bad breath in dogs is rarely just normal dog breath. Learn what causes halitosis — from dental disease to kidney failure.
Dog Balance Problems & Wobbly Walking
Sudden head tilt, circling, or falling to one side in dogs may be idiopathic vestibular disease, ear infection, stroke, or toxin. UK vet advice.
Cognitive Dysfunction in Dogs UK
Canine cognitive dysfunction (dog dementia) affects senior dogs — disorientation, night waking and house soiling. Other diseases can mimic these signs.
Dog Constipation
Straining without producing stool, hard dry faeces, and reduced bowel movements may mean constipation in dogs. Learn common causes, safe relief options.
Dog Dental Care UK
UK dog dental care guide — daily brushing, signs of gum disease, safe chews and when professional cleaning under anaesthesia is needed.
Dog Diarrhoea
A plain-English UK guide to safe home remedies for dog diarrhoea — bland diet, pumpkin, probiotics — plus two common remedies that can be dangerous.
Why Is My Dog Drinking So Much Water?
Drinking much more than usual (polydipsia) in dogs often links to diabetes, kidney disease, Cushing's, or pyometra in unspayed females. UK vet advice.
Dog Eye Discharge
Clear tear overflow differs from thick yellow-green pus in dogs. Squinting, redness, or cloudiness need same-day vet care.
Dog Heatstroke UK
Dog heatstroke is a UK emergency. Tepid-water first aid, signs, at-risk breeds, hot cars, and when to skip walks — plus our temperature checker.
Dog in Heat
A plain-English UK guide to the dog heat cycle: the 4 stages, signs your dog is in heat, how long it lasts, and how to care for her.
Infectious Diseases in Dogs UK
Key infectious diseases affecting UK dogs — parvovirus, distemper, leptospirosis and kennel cough. Vaccination, symptoms and prevention.
Why Is My Dog Limping?
Dog limping on a front or back leg? Common causes from paw injuries and torn nails to arthritis and cruciate ligament tears.
Neutering Dogs in the UK
UK guide to spaying and castrating dogs — when to neuter, surgical recovery, weight management and questions to ask your vet.
Dog Obesity UK
UK guide to dog obesity — body condition scoring, calorie control, exercise tips and when unexplained weight gain needs a vet check.
Why Are My Dog's Gums Pale?
Healthy dog gums are pink and moist. Pale, white, or blue gums suggest anaemia, shock, or poor circulation — an emergency if your dog is weak, collapsing.
Dog Pooping Blood
Blood in your dog's stool can be minor or serious. A plain-English UK guide to bright-red vs. black stool, common causes, and emergency warning signs.
Reverse Sneezing in Dogs: UK Guide
Reverse sneezing sounds like rapid inward snorting — often harmless in small breeds. Calm your dog and note triggers. See when to call your vet.
Dog Seizures and Tremors: UK Guide for Owners
A seizure in dogs involves collapse, paddling, drooling, and loss of awareness. Keep your dog safe, time the episode, and call your vet.
Dog Vaccination Schedule UK
UK dog vaccination schedule for puppies and adults — core vaccines, booster timing, kennel cough and what to expect at your vet.
Dog Vomiting
Occasional vomiting may be harmless, but repeated vomiting can signal serious illness. Dogs vomit for many reasons — from eating too fast to infections.
Unexplained Weight Loss in Dogs
Losing weight while eating normally in dogs can signal malabsorption, diabetes, cancer, or organ disease. UK vet advice.
Dog Winter Walks UK
Walking dogs in UK winter — road salt and grit on paws, ice injuries, coats for thin breeds, and when it's too cold to walk.
Dog Worming Schedule UK
How often to worm your dog in the UK — puppy schedules, adult intervals, lungworm areas and tapeworm rules for travel. Vet-approved guidance.
Yeast Ear Infections in Dogs UK
Brown smelly ear discharge in dogs often signals yeast otitis. UK guide to Malassezia ear infections — causes, vet treatment and prevention.
Donkey Care in the UK
UK donkey care — why donkeys need companions, a straw-based diet (not rich horse feed), shelter from wet weather, and laminitis and hyperlipaemia risks.
Ear Infections in Dogs
Ear infections are common in dogs, especially floppy-eared breeds. Learn what causes otitis, signs of pain, how vets diagnose infections.
Ferret Adrenal Disease — UK Vet Guide
Hair loss and a swollen vulva are classic signs of ferret adrenal disease. UK guide to symptoms, deslorelin implants, surgery and when to see a vet.
Ferret Care in the UK
UK ferret care guide — diet, housing, jill and hob management, vasectomy options, vaccinations and registering with a vet.
Fireworks & Pet Safety in the UK
How to keep UK pets safe during fireworks — Bonfire Night, New Year and Diwali. Plain-English UK anxiety advice, injury escalation, and Vets Now.
Fleas and Ticks on Dogs and Cats
UK flea and tick guide for dogs and cats — signs, year-round prevention, safe tick removal, Lyme risk, and why indoor cats still need treatment.
FLUTD in Cats UK
UK guide to feline lower urinary tract disease — stress, crystals, blocked bladders and long-term management for British cat owners.
Fostering Pets in the UK
How pet fostering works in the UK — what rescues cover (vet bills, food, equipment), who can foster, the time commitment and how to apply.
Gerbil Care in the UK
UK gerbil care guide — pair housing, diet, enrichment, wet tail warning signs and RSPCA welfare guidance. See when to call your vet.
Grape & Raisin Poisoning in Dogs
Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs — no safe amount. UK steps, mince pies and hot cross buns, calculator, and Animal PoisonLine.
Guinea Pig Bloat — UK Emergency Guide
A hard, swollen belly in a guinea pig is an emergency. UK guide to bloat and gut stasis symptoms, causes, and why you must see a vet immediately.
Guinea Pig Care in the UK
UK guinea pig care — vitamin C, companionship, housing and common illnesses. UK guide for new and experienced owners. UK guinea pigs need daily vitamin C.
Guinea Pig Heatstroke UK
Guinea pigs overheat quickly in UK heatwaves. Learn heatstroke signs, how to cool guinea pigs safely, and when to call your vet.
Guinea Pig Mites — UK Treatment Guide
Mange mites cause intense itching, hair loss and even seizure-like scratching fits in guinea pigs. UK guide to symptoms and vet-prescribed treatment.
Guinea Pig Vitamin C — UK Scurvy Guide
Guinea pigs cannot make their own vitamin C and need it daily. UK guide to vitamin C foods, PDSA feeding amounts, and spotting scurvy early.
Guinea Pig Winter Care UK — Keeping Cavies Warm
Guinea pigs must not live outdoors in UK winter. Indoor housing, drafts, hay for warmth, and when cold becomes an emergency.
Hamster Care in the UK — Diet, Housing & Health
UK hamster care guide — species needs, housing, diet, handling and when to call your vet. For Syrian, dwarf and Chinese hamsters.
Hamster Hibernation & Torpor — UK Guide
Pet hamsters can enter dangerous torpor in cold UK rooms. Learn the signs, how torpor differs from hibernation, and how to warm your hamster safely.
Wet Tail in Hamsters — UK Vet Advice
Wet tail (proliferative ileitis) is a life-threatening hamster emergency. UK guide to symptoms, same-day vet care, causes and hygiene prevention.
Heart Disease in Dogs UK
UK guide — coughing, exercise intolerance, and resting breathlessness may signal heart disease. Heart disease is common in older UK dogs.
Heartworm in Dogs UK
UK guide — native heartworm is rare in Britain but a serious risk for dogs travelling to southern Europe. Mosquito spread, prevention before travel.
Heartworm vs Lungworm in Dogs UK
UK guide — lungworm (Angiostrongylus) is common in Britain; heartworm (Dirofilaria) is rare but a travel risk. Different spread, symptoms, and prevention.
Horse Choke in the UK: Emergency Guide
UK horse choke guide — green nasal discharge and retching. Remove food, keep your horse calm, call the vet immediately. Soak feed to help prevent choke.
Horse Colic in the UK
UK horse colic guide — REACT warning signs, what to do while waiting for your equine vet, and how to reduce colic risk. Do not wait for symptoms to worsen.
Horse Coughing in the UK
UK guide to horse coughing — dust and mould in hay, equine asthma, infection and when to call the vet. Soak or steam hay and use low-dust bedding.
Horse Cushing's (PPID) in the UK
UK guide to horse Cushing's (PPID) — curly coat, laminitis risk, ACTH blood testing and lifelong pergolide (Prascend) prescribed by your vet.
Horse Health Basics in the UK
UK horse and donkey health basics — colic warning signs, vaccinations, worming and when to call an equine vet. Colic is the most common equine emergency.
Horse Hot Weather UK
Keeping horses safe in UK heatwaves — water, shade, when to ride, electrolytes and heat stress signs. When to call your equine vet.
Laminitis in Horses
UK laminitis guide — early signs, emergency care, grass management and weight control. For horses and ponies at all times of year.
Senior Horse Care in the UK
UK senior horse care — dental checks every 6–12 months, weight and fat scoring, PPID screening, soaked forage and adapting exercise for ageing joints.
Sweet Itch in Horses: UK Guide
UK sweet itch guide — Culicoides midge allergy affecting around 5% of UK horses. Manage with fly rugs, repellents, stabling at dawn and dusk, and vet care.
Horse Hoof Thrush in the UK
UK guide to hoof thrush — the foul smell and black discharge around the frog, daily hoof picking, dry bedding and when to call your farrier or vet.
Horse Vaccination Schedule in the UK
UK horse and pony vaccination schedules — tetanus and equine influenza primary courses, boosters and competition requirements.
Horse Winter Care UK
UK horse winter care — when to rug, mud fever prevention, forage, water access and colic warning signs. Pawing or rolling means call the vet immediately.
Horse Worming in the UK
UK horse worming guide — faecal worm egg counts, targeted worming, redworm and tapeworm strategy, and yard management. See when to call your vet.
Hot Spots on Dogs
Hot spots are painful, oozing skin sores that flare up fast. A plain-English UK guide to what causes them, how they're treated, and how to prevent them.
Hot Weather Pet Safety in the UK
UK heatwave pet safety for eight species — dog walks and heatstroke, cats, rabbits, flystrike, cars, blue-green algae, and the walk-temperature checker.
How Many Teeth Do Dogs Have?
Adult dogs have 42 teeth; puppies have 28 baby teeth. UK guide to dental development, when puppy teeth fall out. See when to call your vet.
How Much Does a Vet Cost in the UK?
Typical UK vet fees from our dated price index — consults, boosters, neutering, emergencies — plus CMA lists, estimates and when not to shop around.
How Much Should I Feed My Dog UK?
UK guide to dog feeding amounts — reading pet food labels, body condition scoring, treats, and adjusting portions by life stage and activity.
How Often Should I Worm My Dog UK?
UK dog worming schedule — puppies, adults, lungworm, fleas and why shop wormers fail. Use our free cadence checker, then confirm products with your vet.
How to Adopt a Rescue Pet in the UK
The UK adoption journey step by step — find a rescue, apply, home visit, meet your pet. Typical fees: £80–£120 for cats and £230–£300 for dogs.
How to Switch Vets in the UK
How to change veterinary practices in the UK — transferring records, microchip details, prescriptions and what to tell your new vet.
Hyperthyroidism in Cats
Hyperthyroidism is the most common hormone disorder in older cats. Learn the signs — weight loss despite eating, hyperactivity, vomiting.
Ibuprofen Poisoning in Pets UK
Ibuprofen and other human NSAIDs cause stomach ulcers and kidney failure in dogs and cats. UK emergency guide — never give human painkillers.
Who Owns UK Vet Practices?
CMA 2026 finding: six large groups account for almost 60% of UK first-opinion practices, up from about 10% in 2013. How to check who owns your vet.
Independent vs Corporate Vets in the UK
Independent, corporate, joint-venture and not-for-profit UK vets explained — how to read the footer, what the CMA will require, and how to compare fairly.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Pets UK
IBD causes chronic vomiting and diarrhoea in dogs and cats. UK guide to signs, diagnosis, diet trials and long-term management with your vet.
Jaundice in Cats UK
Yellow gums or skin in cats signals jaundice — a serious sign of liver disease, bile duct obstruction or blood disorders. UK emergency guide.
Kennel Cough in Dogs
UK guide to kennel cough in dogs — what causes it, how it spreads, symptoms to watch for, home care tips. See when to call your vet.
Kidney Disease in Cats
Chronic kidney disease is common in older cats. Learn early warning signs, how vets stage CKD, dietary management, fluid therapy.
Kitten Care UK
UK kitten care guide — settling in, early neutering, vaccinations, litter training, indoor safety and when to register with a vet.
Leopard Gecko Care in the UK
UK leopard gecko care — basking at 28–30°C, 30–40% humidity, UVB, livefood diet, humid hides and shedding. How to keep a gecko healthy for up to 20 years.
Lily Poisoning in Cats
All parts of true lilies are deadly to cats — even pollen and vase water. UK guide to which flowers to avoid, symptoms, Animal PoisonLine.
Liver Disease in Cats UK
UK guide — liver disease in cats causes jaundice, vomiting, weight loss, and increased thirst. Early vet diagnosis with blood tests improves outcomes.
Lungworm in Dogs UK
Lungworm in UK dogs — spread by slugs and snails, coughing, bleeding, neurological signs, monthly prevention. See when to call your vet.
Lyme Disease in Dogs UK
UK guide — Lyme disease spreads via Ixodes ricinus ticks in woodland and long grass. Lameness, fever, and lethargy after walks.
Mast Cell Tumours in Dogs UK
Mast cell tumours are common skin cancers in UK dogs. Learn how to spot lumps, grading, surgery and when to see your vet urgently.
Microchipping Your Pet in the UK
UK pet microchipping law, how chips work, updating your details and why microchips must be implanted by a trained professional.
Mouse Care in the UK — Housing, Diet & Health
UK fancy mouse care — housing, diet, taming, health and lifespan. According to the RSPCA, mice are active at night and sensitive to light and noise.
Mouth Ulcers in Cats UK
Mouth ulcers and sore gums in cats cause drooling, pawing at the mouth and not eating. UK guide to common causes — dental disease, FCV, stomatitis.
Mud Fever in Horses UK
UK guide — mud fever causes painful scabs on horse pasterns from wet muddy conditions. Keep legs dry, clip long feathers.
Onion & Garlic Poisoning in Pets UK
Onions, garlic, leeks and chives damage red blood cells in dogs and cats. UK g/kg bands, leftover curry risk, calculator, and Animal PoisonLine steps.
Pancreatitis in Dogs: Symptoms, Diet & Recovery
Pancreatitis causes vomiting, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite in dogs. Learn what triggers flare-ups, how vets diagnose pancreatitis.
Parasite Prevention for UK Pets
Year-round flea, tick and worm prevention for UK dogs, cats and rabbits. How often to treat and why prevention beats cure.
Parrot Care in the UK: Complete Guide
UK parrot care — housing, flight time, diet, enrichment and vet care. Some parrots live over 50 years, so they are a lifetime commitment.
Parrot Feather Plucking in the UK
Feather plucking in parrots — medical vs behavioural causes, RVC guidance, and when to see a UK avian vet. Bald patches are never a normal moult.
Parvovirus in Dogs
Canine parvovirus is a deadly disease especially in unvaccinated puppies. Learn how parvo spreads, warning signs, treatment options.
PDSA Eligibility UK
Who qualifies for PDSA Pet Hospital care in the UK — benefits, housing rules, postcode checks and alternatives including RSPCA and Blue Cross.
Pet Bereavement Support in the UK
UK pet loss support — Blue Cross Pet Bereavement Support Service, coping with grief, and when to seek help after losing a pet.
Pet Cremation in the UK
UK pet cremation explained — individual vs communal cremation, ashes return, costs and arranging aftercare through your vet.
Pet Euthanasia in the UK
What to expect when a pet is put to sleep in the UK — the procedure, staying with your pet, home euthanasia options and aftercare.
Pet First Aid in the UK
UK pet first aid guide — PDSA DR ABC steps, what to do in emergencies, and what to keep in a pet first aid kit at home and in the car.
Pet Insurance in the UK
UK pet insurance explained — accident-only, time-limited, maximum benefit and lifetime cover. What the BVA advises: compare policies, read exclusions.
How to Trim Your Pet's Nails UK
Safe nail trimming for UK pets at home. Step-by-step guide for dogs, cats and rabbits — tools, technique and when to ask your vet for help.
Separation Anxiety in Pets UK
Destructive behaviour, barking and house-soiling when you leave may signal separation anxiety. UK guide to recognition, management and vet support.
Puppy Care UK
UK puppy care guide — settling in, vaccination timing, microchipping law, socialisation window, diet, insurance and vet registration.
Importing Pets to the UK
UK rules for importing dogs, cats and ferrets — microchips, rabies vaccination, tapeworm treatment and approved routes. See when to call your vet.
Questions to Ask Your Vet
Essential questions for UK pet owners when choosing or visiting a vet — fees, out-of-hours cover, prescriptions, estimates and preventive care.
Anaemia in Rabbits UK
Anaemia means low red blood cells in rabbits — causing weakness, pale gums and collapse. UK guide to causes, flea-related anaemia and urgent vet care.
Rabbit Care in the UK
UK rabbit care guide: hay-first diet, hutch and run space, companionship, myxomatosis and RVHD vaccines, and when to call your vet.
Coccidiosis in Rabbits UK
Diarrhoea and weight loss in UK rabbits may signal coccidiosis. Learn about Eimeria parasites, hepatic and intestinal forms, and prevention.
E. cuniculi in Rabbits UK
Encephalitozoon cuniculi (E. cuniculi) affects many UK rabbits — causing head tilt, kidney disease, and eye problems. See when to call your vet.
Rabbit Ear Infections UK
UK guide — lop-eared rabbits get ear infections more often due to folded ear canals. Head tilt, scratching, discharge. See when to call your vet.
Rabbit Flystrike Prevention UK
Flystrike kills rabbits fast in UK summers. Learn prevention, early signs of maggots, and emergency vet action during heatwaves.
Rabbit Gut Stasis (Ileus) UK
Rabbit gut stasis is a UK emergency: why ileus starts, the 12-hour rule, what vets do, what not to give at home, and hay-first prevention.
Rabbit Head Tilt UK
Head tilt (torticollis) in rabbits causes loss of balance and rolling. UK guide to common causes — E. cuniculi, ear infection, trauma — and emergency care.
Myxomatosis in Rabbits UK
Myxomatosis is a deadly viral disease of UK rabbits spread by fleas and mosquitoes. Learn symptoms, annual vaccination, and how to protect outdoor rabbits.
Overgrown Teeth in Rabbits UK
Rabbit teeth grow continuously — overgrown teeth cause pain, drooling, and gut stasis. UK guide to dental signs, vet treatment, and hay-first prevention.
RVHD in Rabbits UK
RVHD-1 and RVHD-2 kill rabbits suddenly with few warning signs. UK guide to vaccination, transmission, symptoms, and protecting indoor and outdoor rabbits.
Rabbit Summer Care UK
Keeping UK pet rabbits cool in heatwaves — hutch placement, frozen water bottles, heatstroke signs and flystrike prevention.
Rabbit Winter Care UK — Hutches, Water & Warmth
UK rabbit winter care — insulating hutches, stopping water freezing, companionship for warmth, and when to bring rabbits indoors.
Rat Bait Poisoning in Pets UK
UK rat poison (rodenticide) can kill dogs and cats. Anticoagulant vs other product types, delayed bleeding signs, Animal PoisonLine, and safe bait use.
Rat Care in the UK — Diet, Housing & Health
UK pet rat care — companionship, cage setup, diet, enrichment and common illnesses. UK guide for new rat owners. According to the RSPCA, rats hide pain.
Rat Respiratory Infection — UK Vet Guide
Sneezing, porphyrin staining and wheezing in rats usually point to respiratory infection. UK guide to mycoplasma, vet treatment and prevention.
Raw Feeding Dogs UK
UK guide — raw (BARF) diets need veterinary nutrition planning to be balanced. Risks: salmonella, bone injury, nutrient deficiency — worst in puppies.
RCVS Accreditation Meaning UK
RCVS registration is the legal baseline for UK vets. Practice Standards Scheme is voluntary. How to check Find a Vet and what badges do not prove.
Registering With a Vet in the UK
How to register your dog, cat or small pet with a UK vet — what to bring, when to do it, and why registering before an emergency matters.
Rehoming a Rescue Cat in the UK
Rehoming a rescue cat in the UK — Cats Protection fees of £80–£120, indoor vs outdoor choices, settling a nervous cat and introducing resident pets.
Reptile Care in the UK
UK reptile care — heating, UVB lighting, diet and when to see an exotic vet. For bearded dragons, leopard geckos and corn snakes.
Reptile Impaction: UK Signs & Vet Advice
Reptile impaction in the UK — risky substrates like calci-sand, warning signs of a gut blockage, prevention, and when your reptile needs an exotic vet.
Metabolic Bone Disease in Reptiles (UK)
Metabolic bone disease in UK reptiles — how missing UVB and calcium cause MBD, the early symptoms to spot, and prevention with lighting and diet.
Reptile Overheating UK
Reptiles can overheat in UK heatwaves when vivariums exceed safe temperatures. Signs, prevention, and when to see an exotic vet.
Reptile Respiratory Infection: UK Guide
Reptile respiratory infection in the UK — causes from excess humidity to cold rooms, signs like nasal discharge and wheezing, and when to call a vet.
Reptile Shedding Problems: UK Guide
Reptile shedding problems in the UK — dysecdysis causes, retained eye caps, toe and tail risks, humidity fixes, safe bathing and when to see an exotic vet.
Reptile Heating in Winter UK
Reptile vivarium heating in UK winter — thermostat checks, backup plans for power cuts, and avoiding cold-related illness.
Rescue vs Breeder: UK Comparison
Rescue vs breeder in the UK — an honest comparison of cost, health checks, Kennel Club registration, Lucy's Law and the red flags of puppy farms.
Ringworm in Cats
Ringworm in cats is a contagious fungal infection — not a worm. A plain-English UK guide to symptoms, treatment, and protecting your home and family.
Senior Pet Care UK
Practical senior pet care for UK dogs and cats over seven. Six-month vet checks, arthritis management, diet changes and quality of life tips.
Slug Pellet Poisoning in Pets UK
Slug and snail pellets containing metaldehyde are a common UK garden poison for dogs and cats. Symptoms, Animal PoisonLine, emergency action.
Tortoise Care in the UK
UK tortoise care — Hermann's and Horsfield's housing, safe hibernation at 4–8°C, outdoor enclosures, weed-based diet and when to see an exotic vet.
Toxic Houseplants for Pets UK
Many popular UK houseplants poison dogs and cats — lilies, sago palm, ivy, and more. Vet guide to dangerous plants, symptoms, and pet-safe alternatives.
Travelling to the EU With Pets From the UK
Post-Brexit UK pet travel to the EU — Animal Health Certificate, microchip, rabies vaccination, tapeworm treatment for dogs and approved routes.
Travelling With Pets in the UK
UK guide to travelling with dogs and cats — car safety, Eurotunnel and trains, heatstroke risk, microchipping law and collar tags.
Urinary Tract Infection in Dogs
Frequent urination, accidents in the house, and blood in urine may signal a UTI in dogs. UK guide to causes, diagnosis, treatment.
Uveitis in Cats UK
Uveitis is painful inflammation inside the cat's eye. UK guide to signs — squinting, colour change, cloudiness — causes and why prompt vet care matters.
Vet Cost of Dental Treatment UK
Indicative UK vet dental costs for dogs and cats — scale and polish, extractions and what affects your bill. Always ask your vet for a quote.
Vet Cost of Neutering UK
Indicative UK neutering costs for dogs and cats in 2025–2026 — regional variation, charity support and why you should ask your vet for a quote.
Vet Cost of Vaccinations UK
Indicative UK vaccination costs for puppies, kittens and annual boosters in 2025–2026. Regional variation, health plans and charity support explained.
Vet Prescription Fees & Online Pharmacies UK
Ask for a written prescription and buy POM-V medicines from a VMD-accredited shop. CMA cap: £21 then £12.50 incl. VAT — large groups from March 2027.
What Fruit Can Dogs Eat UK
UK guide to fruit for dogs — safe treats like apple, banana and blueberry vs toxic grapes and raisins. Portion sizes, preparation, and emergency signs.
What Vegetables Can Dogs Eat UK
UK guide to vegetables for dogs — safe carrots, peas and green beans vs toxic onion and garlic. Preparation, portions, and poison emergency steps.
When to Neuter a Dog UK?
UK guide to dog neutering timing — castration and spaying ages, health benefits, behaviour, and why your vet's advice matters most.
When to Put a Pet to Sleep in the UK
A compassionate UK guide to deciding when euthanasia may be kindest — quality of life, talking to your vet, and making a difficult decision.
When to See an Emergency Vet in the UK
When UK dogs, cats and rabbits need an emergency vet tonight — breathing, collapse, bloat, blocked cats, gut stasis — plus out-of-hours and PoisonLine.
Why Do Dogs Eat Grass?
Is grass-eating normal for UK dogs? Why they graze, whether it causes vomiting, lawn toxins to check, and when to phone a vet rather than wait.
Why Do Dogs Eat Poop UK
Why dogs eat poo (coprophagia) in the UK — normal puppy behaviour, diet, stress, parasites, and when to see your vet. Training tips from UK charities.
Why Do Dogs Howl UK?
UK guide to dog howling — normal communication, triggers like sirens and loneliness, and when excessive howling needs a vet or behaviourist.
Why Do Dogs Sleep So Much UK
How much sleep dogs need in the UK — normal hours for puppies, adults and seniors vs signs illness, pain or anxiety may be causing excess sleep.
Why Do Dogs Tilt Their Heads UK?
UK guide to the head tilt — cute communication, hearing adjustment, and when a persistent tilt means ear infection or neurological disease.
Why Does My Dog Snore UK?
UK guide — soft snoring is common in relaxed or brachycephalic dogs. Loud new snoring, snoring while awake. See when to call your vet.
Why Is My Cat Drinking So Much Water UK?
UK guide — increased thirst in cats often signals kidney disease, diabetes, or hyperthyroidism. Know normal intake, measurement tips.
Why Is My Cat Hiding?
Cats hide when stressed or unwell. Sudden hiding with reduced eating often signals illness — UK cats mask pain until they withdraw.
Why Is My Cat Losing Weight UK?
UK guide — unintentional weight loss in cats is not normal ageing. Hyperthyroidism, kidney disease, diabetes, and when to book blood tests.
Why Is My Cat Meowing Excessively?
Some cat breeds are naturally chatty, but sudden loud meowing — especially at night in seniors — may mean pain, hyperthyroidism, or cognitive decline.
Why Is My Cat Not Eating UK?
UK guide — cats should not go 24 hours without food. Hepatic lipidosis risk, common causes, and when to call your vet the same day.
Why Is My Cat Panting?
Unlike dogs, panting in cats is usually abnormal. Heat, stress, heart disease, and asthma can cause open-mouth breathing in UK cats.
Why Is My Cat Pooping Outside the Litter Box?
UK guide to cats toileting outside the litter tray — medical causes (FLUTD, arthritis, diarrhoea), stress, tray setup. See when to call your vet.
Why Is My Cat Scratching Furniture UK?
UK guide to cat furniture scratching — normal behaviour, deterrents that work, and when scratching signals stress or health problems.
Why Is My Cat Sneezing UK?
UK guide — occasional cat sneezing is often harmless dust or litter. Persistent sneezing with discharge, blood, or appetite loss may mean infection, flu.
Why Does My Cat Snore UK?
UK guide — many cats snore softly when relaxed. Loud snoring, open-mouth breathing, or snoring that starts suddenly may indicate obesity.
Why Is My Cat Vomiting?
Why do cats vomit? A plain-English UK guide to hairballs, eating too fast, food intolerance, and red-flag symptoms that mean your cat needs urgent care.
Why Is My Dog Coughing?
A persistent cough in dogs can mean kennel cough, heart disease, allergies, or something stuck in the throat. UK guide to cough types, causes.
Why Is My Dog Drinking So Much Water UK?
UK guide to increased thirst in dogs — normal intake, common causes including diabetes and kidney disease, and when to book vet tests.
Why Is My Dog Drooling Excessively?
Sudden heavy drooling in dogs may signal nausea, mouth pain, toxin exposure, or heatstroke. UK vet advice. Some breeds drool more by design.
Dog Eating Grass & Vomiting Yellow Foam UK
Grass-eating is usually normal in UK dogs. Yellow foam is often bile from an empty stomach. Home steps, lawn toxins, and when to phone a vet.
Why Is My Dog Itching UK?
UK guide to itchy dogs — flea allergy, environmental triggers, food allergies, ear infections, and when prescription treatment beats home remedies.
Why Is My Dog Licking Paws Excessively?
Constant paw licking in dogs usually means itch, pain, or habit. Allergies, yeast, foreign bodies between toes, and arthritis are common UK causes.
Why Is My Dog Limping UK?
UK guide to dog limping — check the paw first, common causes from torn nails to cruciate tears, and when to rest vs call your vet.
Why Is My Dog Not Drinking Water?
A dog skipping water briefly may be stressed or nauseous, but no drinking for 24 hours risks dehydration — especially puppies, seniors, and small breeds.
Why Is My Dog Not Eating?
When a UK dog stops eating, it can signal illness, pain or stress. Learn how long is safe, common causes, and when to call your vet today.
Why Is My Dog Panting Heavily?
Heavy panting after exercise or heat is normal in dogs. Panting at rest, with pale or blue gums, or after hot car exposure needs urgent UK vet care.
Why Is My Dog Scooting on the Floor?
Dog scooting often means full or infected anal glands, but worms, allergies, and diarrhoea stuck to fur also cause it. See when to call your vet.
Why Is My Dog Shaking?
Shaking, trembling, or shivering in dogs can be normal or a sign of illness. Learn the difference between cold, fear, pain, poisoning.
Why Is My Dog Sneezing?
Occasional dog sneezing is usually harmless — dust, pollen, or play. Persistent sneezing with discharge, blood, or pawing at the face may mean infection.
Why Is My Dog Vomiting UK?
UK guide to dog vomiting — when one episode is harmless, common causes, yellow foam, and when to call your vet or emergency clinic today.
Why Is My Guinea Pig Not Eating UK?
UK guide — guinea pigs must eat continuously. Not eating for 12 hours is an emergency. Common causes, vitamin C, and when to call your vet.
Why Is My Rabbit Not Eating?
A UK rabbit that stops eating can develop gut stasis within hours. The 12-hour rule, causes, what not to do at home, and when to phone a vet today.
Why Is My Rabbit Not Pooping UK?
UK guide — reduced or absent droppings in rabbits signals gut stasis, an emergency. Signs, causes, and when to contact your vet immediately.
Winter Pet Safety UK
UK winter pet safety — antifreeze, grit on paws, rabbits in hutches, horses in cold, and when cold becomes an emergency for dogs and cats.
Xylitol Poisoning in Dogs
Xylitol is extremely toxic to dogs — even small amounts can cause life-threatening hypoglycaemia and liver failure. UK guide to products, mg/kg dose bands.
Zoonotic Diseases from Pets UK
Some UK pet diseases can pass to humans. Learn about ringworm, toxoplasmosis, campylobacter and how to reduce risk for families.