While pet rodents like mice, rats, and hamsters may be small in size, they can still be susceptible to internal parasites like tapeworms and pinworms. Our vets in Purleigh want owners of small furry pets to be aware of these potential health threats and be able to spot the signs of worms at home.
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Before we dive in, did you know that April is National Pet Month? Share a photo or video of your tiny companion on our Facebook page and let’s celebrate the joy of pet ownership together!
Understanding tapeworms and pinworms
- Tapeworms are common in rodents and are typically transmitted through the ingestion of infected fleas or lice. Once ingested, tapeworm larvae develop into adult worms in the rodent’s intestines, where they can grow and produce eggs, perpetuating the cycle of infection.
- Pinworms are small, thread-like parasites that can also infect the intestines of rodents, often through the ingestion of contaminated food or bedding.
Five signs of tapeworm and pinworm infestations:
Vet Jürgen Theinert at our Purleigh vet practice shares that detecting tapeworms and pinworms in pet mice, rats, and hamsters can be challenging, as these parasites may not always produce noticeable symptoms. However, there are some signs that may indicate a worm infestation in your furry friend:
- Weight loss despite having a normal appetite.
- Visible worm segments (in the case of tapeworms) that look like small, rice-like pieces in your pet’s faeces or around their bottom area.
- Itching and irritation around the bottom area, leading to excessive grooming or scratching.
- Appearing lethargic or less active than usual.
- A rough, dull coat could indicate an underlying health issue, including a worm infestation.
Preventing and treating worm infestations
Jürgen advises pet owners that preventing worm infestations in pet rodents begins with good hygiene and sanitation practices. By keeping your pet’s cage clean, and providing fresh bedding and food regularly, you can minimise the risk of exposure to parasites. Additionally, Jürgen recommends that you should avoid feeding your pet rodents wild-caught insects or uncooked grains, as these may carry tapeworm eggs or pinworm larvae.
If you suspect your pet mouse, rat, or hamster may have tapeworms or pinworms, get in touch with our Purleigh team promptly. Jürgen or another of our vets can perform a thorough examination and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include deworming medications or other interventions to help eliminate the parasites. Additionally, our vets can offer guidance on preventive measures to reduce the risk of future infestations in your small furry pets.
Remember, early detection and intervention are key to managing worm infestations in pet rodents. By staying vigilant and seeking veterinary care at the first sign of trouble, you can help protect your tiny companions from the harmful effects of internal parasites.
Ask us about small pet parasite treatments
Before you go, pop over to our Facebook page and share a photo or video of your small furry pets to celebrate National Pet Month!
Forget doggy chocolate drops and catnip, what your pet really wants this Valentine’s Day is the gift that keeps on giving!
At Edgewood Vets, we’re all about celebrating the furry joy in your life. Picture this: the sheer bliss on your pet’s face as they revel in the best gift imaginable – ongoing, top-notch preventative care that keeps them wagging, purring, and living their best life!
Our Chelmsford team believes in pampering your pets with the care they truly deserve. Enter Edgewood Vets’ Pet Health Club, your pet’s VIP pass to ultimate health and vitality. This plan isn’t just a healthcare routine; it’s a tailored experience featuring vet-recommended parasite control products, personalised mid-year check-ups, and a yearly booster vaccination to keep contagious diseases at bay. Because when it comes to your pet, vibrant health is the ultimate love language!
Did you know that pets who get regular preventative healthcare are generally healthier than those who do not? And it’s certainly true that prevention is better than cure.
Plus, if saving money is your ‘love language’, you’ll receive additional member benefits that will show a bit of love to your wallet too:
Three financial perks of joining our Pet Health Club
- Save big on your pet’s care! Join our Pet Health Club for substantial savings* on routine healthcare. Investing in check-ups, vaccinations, and flea & worm treatments is typically much more expensive if you purchase them individually.
- Budgeting made easy! With our Pet Health Club, monthly payments make routine pet healthcare expenses a breeze. Your plan’s cost is typically fixed for a stress-free 12 months once you join* giving you financial peace of mind.
- Exclusive perks await! As a member you’ll be offered exclusive discounts on selected products and treatments. Explore the latest offers for plan members on our website.
Ready to shower your pet with the ultimate Valentine’s Day gift?
Whether you’re eager to dive in and enrol your pet straight away, or are keen to get into the details including how much you could save, our team are here to help. Discover the benefits of our Pet Health Club and unleash a world of joy for you and your pet. Call us on 01621 828381 and let the love (and savings) flow!
* Savings vary by pet, please contact us for a comparison.
** See plan terms and conditions.
We are now implementing new guidance, from our governing body (the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons), which affects the prescribing of medicines.
The new guidance, that came into effect on 1st September, states that Vets must now undertake a physical examination of every pet before we can prescribe any antibiotic, antifungal, antiviral or anti-parasitic treatment.
How will this affect you?
Below, our head vet Jürgen outlines the effect of the new regulations. If you read their review and have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact our team on 01621 828381.
Prescribing prescription medications
The new regulations state that a physical examination of every pet must take place before any antibiotic, antifungal, antiviral or anti-parasitic treatment can be prescribed. That means that your pet must be seen by one of our vets if we suspect that they have conditions like …
- Eye or ear infections
- Long-term skin conditions where antibiotics are required
- Suspected urinary tract infections
- Gastrointestinal upsets that may require antibiotic treatment
- We / you decide to change from one flea / worm /tick product to another
Our vets will make the relevant notes to allow us to dispense those specific flea and worm treatments for 12 months from the date of the initial consultation. We can dispense either 3 or 6 months’ worth of flea and worm treatment in one go. For flea and worm treatments you will need to request repeat prescriptions over the following 12 months via our repeat prescription service, either via telephone or via our website. In most cases, an annual examination at the time of your pet’s vaccination should be adequate for flea and worm treatment. Should you wish to change this treatment during the 12-month period, a repeat physical examination by one of our vets will be required.
The change in the Code of Conduct means that you may be asked to bring your pet in more regularly for check-ups to allow us to abide by this new guidance. The guidance is an important step towards ensuring responsible use and reducing the veterinary impact on the wider issues of global antibiotic resistance and decline of insect populations.
Due to the increased number of vet consultations that will be required to satisfy the RCVS guidelines for prescribing flea and worm products, we are unable to sustain free-of-charge consultations. We have now introduced a reduced flea and worm consultation charge to allow clients to purchase proven and efficacious flea and worm products.
The new RCVS regulations
The RCVS have published a detailed article that explains the full extent of the new regulations and you can read it here.
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We believe that the changes to the prescribing regulations were inevitable and are essential, as they are designed to address the rise in resistance to and environmental impact of the uncontrolled use of certain medicines, such as antibiotics.
However, in a world that’s already facing a cost-of-living crisis, we do understand that the new regulations may not be welcomed by some, as in certain circumstances they may drive an increase in care costs for your pet.
We want you to know that as a local independent veterinary practice we remain committed to offering our clients transparency, choice and value.
Sadly, heart disease is almost as common in dogs as it is in humans, especially as they age. Vet Jürgen Theinert and the rest of the veterinary team at our Purleigh practice, have pulled together their answers to commonly asked questions about heart disease in dogs. We want to help local pet owners understand why it’s so important their dogs attend regular health checks.
In its early stages, canine heart disease tends to be difficult to detect, so annual screening is important – Book a heart health check-up for your dog today.
Spotting Heart Disease at home
Common questions on Canine Disease
What types of heart diseases affect dogs?
- Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM): A condition where the heart muscle becomes weak and enlarged, leading to poor pumping function.
- Mitral Valve Disease (MVD): A condition where the mitral valve of the heart degenerates, leading to leakage of blood and reduced heart efficiency.
- Aortic Stenosis (AS): A common congenital heart defect in large breed dogs, typically caused by a ridge or ring of fibrotic tissue condition in the subaortic region.
- Pericardial effusion: An acquired cardiovascular disease in dogs, where excessive fluid accumulates within the pericardial sac, affecting the heart’s ability to pump effectively.
Are certain breeds more likely to develop canine heart disease?
According to Vet Jürgen Theinert, yes, some dog breeds are predisposed to certain types of heart disease. Just like in humans, genetics can play a significant role in the development of heart conditions in dogs. Some breeds are more prone to specific heart issues due to inherited traits and genetic factors, such as:
Dog breeds commonly predisposed to Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) include:
- Boxers, Cocker Spaniels, Doberman Pinschers, Great Danes, Irish Wolfhounds, Saint Bernards
Dog breeds commonly predisposed to Mitral Valve Disease (MVD) include:
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Chihuahuas, Dachshunds, Miniature Poodles, Pomeranians, Shih-Tzus, Small Terrier Breeds
Dog breeds commonly predisposed to Aortic Stenosis (AS) include:
- Boxers, Bullmastiffs, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Newfoundlands, Rottweilers
Dog breeds commonly predisposed to Pericardial Effusion include:
- Afghan Hounds, Boxers, Boston Terriers, Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Salukis, Weimaraners
Jürgen wants Essex dog owners to understand that although these breeds have a higher genetic predisposition to these heart conditions, it does not mean that every dog will develop heart disease.
Download our Heart Disease Symptoms Fact Sheet
Can other factors increase the risk of heart disease in dogs?
Yes, environmental factors (including second-hand cigarette smoke) and the below factors can affect a dog’s heart health.
- Age: Dogs entering their senior years are more at risk – typically 5-8 years of age for very large/giant dogs, 7-10 for medium-sized dogs, and 9-12 for small dogs.
- Excess Weight & Obesity: Increases risk of developing heart disease due to the strain on their hearts.
- Poor Diet: Lacking essential nutrients can impact heart health and contribute to the development of heart disease.
- Lack of Exercise: Insufficient physical activity can lead to obesity and cardiovascular health issues.
- Heartworm Disease: Parasitic heartworms are not found in the UK but dogs travelling abroad, and adopted from overseas may be at risk.
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Can put added stress on the heart and lead to heart disease.
- Thyroid Disease: Thyroid imbalances, such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, can affect heart function.
- Infections: Certain infections, like bacterial endocarditis, can lead to heart disease in dogs.
- Congenital Heart Defects: Some dogs are born with structural abnormalities in their hearts that can lead to heart disease.
- Toxins and Medications: Exposure to certain toxins or medications can damage the heart and lead to heart disease.
- Cushing’s Disease (Hyperadrenocorticism): This condition, which results in excess cortisol production, can impact heart health.
Can you spot heart disease in dogs at home?
Jürgen says it’s important to note that some cases of heart disease may progress slowly and show mild signs, while others can become more severe and acute, leading to more pronounced symptoms. This is why monitoring and screening for heart disease is so important.
There are some symptoms of heart disease that you may spot at home. Take a look at Edgewood Vets’ fact sheet: Heart Disease in Dogs Symptoms
Share our guide with other dog owners and help us to help other pets in Essex.
How will a vet test for heart disease?
During a health check with one of our team, they will perform a thorough examination, listen for any abnormal heart sounds (heart murmur) or rhythms. They may recommend further tests, such as radiographs (X-rays) and echocardiography, to evaluate your dog’s heart health accurately. This, along with any symptoms your dog is displaying during the exam, or you have told us about, will help our veterinary surgeons to determine a diagnosis.
Early detection and appropriate management can improve the prognosis and quality of life for dogs with heart disease.
The UK Government has changed the laws surrounding cat microchips in England. Edgewood Vets wants all cat owners in Essex to be aware that it is now a legal requirement for all cats over 20 weeks of age to be microchipped by the 10th June 2024.
Learn more about microchipping and book your pet in with our experienced team of cat vets.
Book your cat’s microchip appointment
Why has the law on cat microchipping changed?
In England, as a cat owner you must ensure your cat is fitted with a microchip before the 10th June 2024. After this date, owners can be faced with a fine of £500 for neglecting to microchip their cat.
It used to be recommended and not compulsory to have your pet cat microchipped however, with the increasing number of animals involved in road traffic accidents, becoming lost, stolen or injured whilst away from home, it has been difficult to identify our feline friends. Especially as collars and tags can break or be removed.
The UK Government has made a significant move towards enhancing the safety of England’s cats with this new regulation and it has been warmly welcomed by pet owners across the country.
Your microchip details
The microchip we will use at Edgewood Vets will have a unique reference number that will be registered on a national database.
Having your cat microchipped is one thing but do remember to keep their microchip details up to date! After registration, it is important to note that the owner is then responsible for keeping the associated personal information up to date on the national database. This is essential in ensuring that you can be reunited with your cat for any reason.
Booking your cat’s microchip appointment at Edgewood Vets
We are urging all cat owners to not delay and book their cat a microchipping appointment sooner rather than later. Protecting your pet and giving you peace of mind should not be delayed until the 10th June 2024.
Our vets can complete microchip implantation during a normal consult at our Purleigh, Maldon or Burnham practices. The microchip itself is no larger than a grain of rice and is implanted similarly to how your pet will receive a vaccination, via a special needle.
Read the official announcement regarding cat microchipping and call our Purleigh, Maldon or Burnham practice to book an appointment for your pet. Alternatively, visit our online booking page today.
As it’s National Pet Dental Health Month, it’s as good a time as ever to make sure you’re doing the best you can for your cat’s teeth and gums. But do you know the best way to keep your cat’s mouth clean? You may be new to cat ownership or not really have considered it an issue before.
So here is some guidance from the team at Edgewood Vets, who are also happy to answer any queries you may have when you call on 01621 828381 or contact us.
Contact us for advice on cat dental health
It’s important to regularly check your cat’s teeth and gums, to make sure the teeth are white and not in any way chipped and that the gums are pink and healthy and don’t have any sores or swellings. If they do this could indicate gum disease, which might also mean an underlying health problem.
If you spot any such issues you should make an appointment to get your cat checked over and, at the same time, we can show you how to clean their teeth.
The best way to do this is by using a special finger glove or cat toothbrush and some feline-formulated toothpaste. Because cats often eat a lot of soft food, rather than chewing on grass and bones as they would in the wild, they don’t have a diet that lends itself to keeping their teeth clean.
Other things that can help in this respect are dental treats, chews, special diets and even mouth rinses and sprays, but again it’s best to seek advice from Edgewood Vets as to which products might be most suitable for your pet.
Keeping your cat’s teeth and gums healthy will ensure a better quality of life – most of us will have experienced the pain of a toothache and it is no less distressing for a cat. If they aren’t able to properly eat or drink it’s obviously going to have a knock-on effect in other areas of their health.
So why not make an appointment to meet with one of our nurses who will check you cat’s teeth and show you how to clean them? We are always happy to answer your questions too when you call us on 01621 828381.
Going to the dentist is rarely high on anyone’s annual wish list, but it’s one of those things that’s important not just for mouth health but also for overall wellbeing. And if everyone followed their dentist’s advice visits probably wouldn’t feel like such an ordeal.
Same goes for your dog. Consider the following advice from our head nurse, Caroline, as important as that of your own hygienist when it comes to your pet’s oral health. Then, when you make an appointment at Edgewood Vets for their annual check-up, hopefully there’ll be one less thing to stress about.
Contact us for advice on dog dental care
Brushing
This is the single best thing you can do to help keep your dog’s teeth healthy. It’s best to start when they are puppies so they get used to the regime, but of course there are several reasons this may not be possible.
Whatever the circumstances it’s best to get our nurse, Caroline, to show you the best way to brush your dog’s teeth – different breeds have differently shaped jaws, so it’s not a one-size-fits-all operation.
Use a special dog brush and toothpaste as human formulations can’t be used.
Chews and treats
There are many types of dog chew available and a lot of them will have some sort of teeth-cleaning abilities. Some treats are also specially formulated to help keep tartar build-up down.
Professional cleaning
If your dog has bad breath, is refusing to eat or seems to be licking its lips a lot, it could be suffering from some sort of dental disease, so it’s best to make an appointment with one of the vets at Chelmsford Road, Purleigh, Essex, CM3 6QR to get it checked out.
If your dog does have a build-up of tartar it can be removed then you can start a new regime to prevent it happening again. If you’ve any queries or concerns don’t hesitate to contact the team on 01621 828381 and they’ll be happy to talk to you.
Bring your dog for our nurse to show you how to clean its teeth
Cats may not quite understand the meaning of Christmas… but this doesn’t mean they can’t be involved. It’s also the perfect occasion for you to thank your pet for their continued companionship.
Of course, that raises the question of finding a suitable festive gift for your cat – so we’ve got a few ideas for you.
Plus, winter can be a testing time for pets and their owners, so make sure you get in touch with any concerns. We’re here to help with any worries you may have, whether behavioural (try asking our vet nurse Caroline) or medical (ask for an appointment with our vet Jürgen).
Our three best gift ideas for cats…
- Festive food treats
Cats tend to love cooked turkey or chicken, tinned tuna and other lean meats and fish – as well as packaged treats. If your cat is a healthy weight, occasional extras shouldn’t do any harm. Simply try to make sure they don’t exceed 10% of your cat’s daily calories. An adult cat of 5kg needs around 290 calories each day, so 30 calories of treats (within the 290kcal) is absolutely fine. Make sure you read labels carefully – or weigh food and treats, then look up their nutritional value online. - Games
Depending on how much space you have, items such as activity boards and cat climbing frames can help your cat exercise both their body and their brain. You can also get creative with blowing bubbles, tying toys to a piece of string to swing in front of your cat, a simple cardboard box, or even your tablet (some apps are designed especially for cats). It might even stop them getting into mischief around Purleigh… - New bedding or hiding place
If your cat enjoys cosy spaces, you could see how they get on with a different style of bed, such as a ‘pet teepee’ or ‘pet yurt’ – or a hooded ‘cat cave’ that’s snuggly inside. You can also buy beds designed to be hung from furniture (or even radiators), dependent on your cat’s preferred place to rest. If they seem hesitant at first, perhaps place a favourite toy or blanket inside, to show them that this new object is intended for their use.
We’d love to see your cat enjoying their Christmas gift, so why not post a few pictures on our Facebook page?
