Pet Answers
Don't settle for pet theories, get pet answers! Veterinary surgeon Holly Norman answers your animal health questions.
Q: I’ve heard that there’s a new law that cats have to be microchipped. Do I have to
get my cat done if she doesn’t go outside?
A: You’re right, there is a new law. By the 10th June 2024, all cats older than twenty weeks of age, will have to be legally microchipped. And this applies to all cats, whether they stay indoors or not.
Microchips are about the size of a grain of rice and are inserted under the skin between the shoulder blades. This can be done during an appointment at your veterinary practice or at the same time as neutering. The charity, Cats Protection, can often help towards costs of neutering and microchipping so worth keeping an eye on their website https://www.cats.org.uk/
And finally, once you have your cat chipped, remember to keep your details up to date. If your cat goes missing and is handed in at a veterinary practice or rescue centre, the first thing we do is check for a microchip. Then we can log on to the chip database for your contact details and get you reunited as soon as possible!
Q: My little dog has to have a dental procedure but she’s nearly nine. I’m worried about
her having an anaesthetic at her age?
A: I completely understand. My dogs are eleven and twelve and I always worry too! Firstly, I would say if you are having these worries, it’s worth ringing your vet and having a chat through it. We vets are pet owners too and we want you to be reassured that we’ve got your dog’s best interests at heart.
Age isn’t a disease or an increased risk in its own right, but being older does mean you’re more
likely to have additional medical conditions that may affect the anaesthetic. So, with our older patients, we’ll often approach procedures a bit differently. Sometimes we’ll change what medications we use and we’ll often do a blood test beforehand to check that all their organs are working properly.
These patients will often be on a fluid drip to help us maintain their blood pressure and keep them warm, and we might keep them with us at the practice for a bit longer so we’re sure they’re fully recovered.
Older dogs often need dental procedures and this is good to treat any rotten teeth, give everything a good clean and check the whole mouth thoroughly. They always feel much better afterwards!
Q: I’ve recently lost one of my rabbits and now I’m worried about my remaining bunny being by himself. Will he be OK or should I get him a friend?
A: I’m so sorry to hear that. And I’m sure your bunny is missing his friend a great deal too. You’re right, rabbits much prefer to have company but it can be difficult to introduce a new friend if they’re a bit older. It’s worth contacting your local rescue centres as they often have lone rabbits available for rehoming and many offer bonding sessions and introduction advice
to help ensure the new arrival is a success!
Dr Holly Norman BSc(Hons) BVetMed MRCVS Veterinary surgeon and Practice Partner at:
• Peterborough Vets4Pets 231-233 St Paul’s Road Peterborough PE1 3RL
Tel: 01733 890777
• Bretton Vets4Pets Inside Pets at Home Unit 2 The Bretton Centre Peterborough PE3 8DN Tel: 01733 261094
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Holly will endeavour to answer all questions, whether published or not!
