Expert vet offers advice on common pet behaviors
Sean McCormack, head vet at tails.com, is on a mission to help pet owners keep their furry friends happy and healthy. With ten years of experience, Sean is here to answer your pet questions, whether it's about their behavior, nutrition, or exercise.
Question #1: Do Gerbils Purr?
A reader asks if their gerbils, Barbie and Kendra, are happy when they purr and groom each other. Sean explains that this is normal gerbil behavior and a sign that they are getting along well. The purring indicates contentment and often happens during mutual grooming.
Question #2: Why Are Cats Obsessed with Cardboard Boxes?
Another reader wonders why their cat, Tim, is obsessed with cardboard boxes when he has plenty of comfortable beds. Sean explains that cats love cardboard boxes because they provide a secure place where they can observe their surroundings. It may also remind them of the tight den spaces their ancestors sought in the wild.
Question #3: Dealing with a Clingy Dog
A dog owner asks for advice on their mixed-breed dog, Mo, who won't leave them alone and even tries to get in the bath or shower. Sean suggests that Mo may be experiencing separation anxiety and recommends gradually building distance in the home to teach him that it's okay to be alone. See-through baby gates can be helpful in creating a sense of separation without completely isolating the dog.
Question #4: Constant Grooming in Cats
A reader expresses concern about their cat, Pumpkin, who constantly grooms himself. Sean reassures them that if there are no signs of skin irritation or hair loss, it's likely that Pumpkin is simply a clean and image-conscious cat. However, if there are any concerns, a vet check can help ease the owner's mind.
Star of the Week: Miracle Pup Defies the Odds
Opie, a labrador born with a rare heart defect, was given just weeks to live. However, two years later, he is thriving and enjoying life to the fullest with his owner, Julie Parsons. Opie has climbed mountains, ridden in a fire engine, and even attended a black-tie dinner. Julie encourages others to consider adopting a dog to give them a new lease on life.
Rising Costs Impact Cats and Their Owners
A recent study by Cats Protection reveals that a third of Britain's cat owners have been negatively impacted by the cost-of-living crisis. The report also highlights that 330,000 people rely on food banks to feed their pets, and 14% worry about meeting their cat's needs in the future. The charity offers resources and assistance for cat owners on a budget, including information on affordable care and schemes for microchipping and neutering.
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