What is conjunctivitis? Conjunctivitis is an itchy, uncomfortable inflammation of the 'conjunctiva', which is the membrane which covers the eyeballs and lines the eyelids. It can be just as common in pets as it is in humans, so it's always best to get it checked if you suspect your pet may be … [Read more...] about Conjunctivitis in Pets
Microchipping
The importance of microchipping We often have stray and lost dogs or cats brought into us to the surgery in the hopes we can reunite them with their family. It can happen to the most vigilant owner - cats and dogs (or rabbits and ferrets!) can make a break for it and decide to go on an adventure … [Read more...] about Microchipping
Feline Hypertension
Feline hypertension or high-blood pressure is a common problem for older cats over the age of 10 years. It can be difficult to tell whether your cat has hypertension as there is usually no outward sign until organ damage has occurred; the best way to identify the illness is with a blood pressure … [Read more...] about Feline Hypertension
Seasonal Allergies
Spring is a wonderful time of year, or at least it is if you’re not an allergy sufferer! Whilst we humans suffer from sneezing and sniffing thanks to allergens, our pet’s allergies take the form of skin irritation or inflammation. If your cat or dog seems itchy at only certain times of year, they … [Read more...] about Seasonal Allergies
Food Allergies and Intolerances
Food allergies in pets are not all that common, but we do see occasional cases here at Heathfield Vets. Unlike humans, an animal’s reaction to an allergen is usually seen through the skin, as a chronic itch. Pets with food allergies usually show signs before the age of 3 and may suffer from … [Read more...] about Food Allergies and Intolerances
Top 5 Dental Care Tips for Cats and Dogs
Start Early It is a good idea to get your pet used to having their mouth handled and examined from a young age. This will make routine dental care and veterinary examinations easier and far less stressful for you and your pet. Practice lifting your puppy/kitten’s lips and running a finger over … [Read more...] about Top 5 Dental Care Tips for Cats and Dogs
Winter Weather Advice
Keeping Warm They may have a thick fur coat, but both cats and dogs can get cold in chilly weather, especially if they aren’t used to it – and for those breeds with lighter coats. So do make sure your pets are warm and dry, especially if you are out all day and the heating is off then. Warm … [Read more...] about Winter Weather Advice
Harvest Mites
Harvest mites are another of those pesky parasites that plague our pets. As you'll guess from their name, this is the time of year when they come out to play, but they aren't much fun for our dogs and cats. Their scientific name is Neotrombicula (or just Trombicula) autumnalis and they are a … [Read more...] about Harvest Mites
