Companion Life - Spring 2020

SPRING 2020

FREE PLEASE TAKE A COPY

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In this issue > A guide to... Understanding liver health in pets > Top tips to maintain healthy digestive function in pets > Surviving Spring with pets > Q&A with Sean McCormack, Head Vet at tails.com

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2 EDITOR’S COMMENT I’m delighted to present the Spring 2020 edition of Companion Life magazine. Companion Life is a FREE magazine, which aims to offer pet owners information, news and advice. In this issue we highlight liver health in dogs and cats and how to survive Spring with your pets. As well as the latest news, we also share tips on maintaining healthy digestive function in pets.

Feel free to get in touch with any features, news, pet products or even pictures of your own pets.

Laura Evans Editor

Companion Life Companion Life is a Free Magazine providing news, information, tips and advice for pet owners across the UK. Circulation: 30,000 copies of Companion Life are distributed to veterinary practices across the UK.

NEWS

Government urged to ban the sale of cruel small rabbit hutches diseases and mental problems, such as stress and depression.

All of these contribute to a lifetime of mental and physical suffering, eventually leading to premature death. The petition has received over 26,000 signatures to date.

The Rabbit Welfare Association and Fund (RWAF) has issued a petition to the government, urging it to ban the sale of small rabbit hutches.

The RWAF are calling on the government to introduce new legislation to establish national minimum sizes for rabbit housing. Although there is a legal housing size requirement for meat and laboratory rabbits, there is no current law for keeping pet rabbits.

Small hutches are directly linked to a number of rabbit health problems, such as spinal deformities, various fatal

The tablets can be used both short and long-term and are especially useful when there is an accumulation of toxins that need to be naturally eliminated.

Editorial: editor@companionlife.co.uk

Nutramarin has been developed by vets in the UK to provide a fast-acting triple action formula to naturally support and maintain healthy liver function in pets.

Commenting on the new product, Matthew Shaw, Managing Director of Nutravet said: “We’re excited to launch this new innovative product, which is 100% exclusive to vet practices and an affordable SAMe product for pet owners.

Cost has always been an issue with products containing SAMe, however we have not only developed a cost-effective product for pet owners, but one that is second to none when it comes to product formulation and quality.”

The unique formulation of SAMe, Silybin and Turmeric extract (Curcumin) combine to naturally support and maintain healthy liver function in pets. They can be used when extra support is needed to naturally

For more information visit www.nutravet.co.uk/nutramarin.

Advertising/artwork: advertising@companionlife.co.uk

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For more information visit www.rabbitwelfare.co.uk

cleanse the liver such as when processing medication.

Editor: Laura Evans.

@CompanionLifeUK

Dr Emma Milne BVSc MRCVS, RWAF Patron and Welfare Campaigner said: “Rabbits are one of the most misunderstood and neglected of our pet animals. Far too many are kept alone and in totally inadequate hutches. It’s high time shops take the responsibility for that suffering and stop selling anything that isn’t the minimum size.”

Nutravet launch affordable natural liver health supplement for pets

Contact details: Companion Life, Barn 3, Somerford Business Court, Holmes Chapel Road, Congleton, Cheshire. CW12 4SN www.companionlife.co.uk

Companion Life is part of ‘WITH Marketing Ltd’, The contents within Companion Life is fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Companion Life. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Companion Life, its distributors and WITH Marketing Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

The RWAF are calling on all pet retailers to take responsibility and only stock adequately sized hutches, and for all rabbit owners and animal lovers alike to sign the petition and prevent this form of ‘accepted’ animal cruelty.

Natural animal health company, Nutravet has launched a revolutionary new liver health supplement for dogs and cats.

Nutramarin is available to buy over the counter at authorised veterinary practices across the UK and Ireland.

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3 NEWS SNIPPETS

First ever Dachshund wins world’s greatest dog show

New look Fish4Dogs treat packs ‘say what they do on the bag’ Fish4Dogs treats range has gone through a brand refresh to show customers ‘what they do on the bag’. The extensive treats range has been categorised into four groups, Dental, Love, Support+ and Training – helping customers decide on which treats may be best used for a particular purpose. For more information visit www.fish4dogs.com

cheered on as they were chosen by top judge, Anne Macdonald.

Maisie’s win is the first ever for a Dachshund, which was captured live on Channel 4 in a programme hosted by Clare Balding, and watched online around the world by millions of dog lovers.

After four momentous days, Maisie, a Wire-Haired Dachshund was crowned Best in Show at Crufts.

In a packed arena, Maisie who is two years old and her owner, Kim McCalmont from Berkeley, Gloucestershire were

Almost 20,000 pedigree dogs from around the world competed at the Birmingham NEC over four days for just seven places in the Crufts 2020 Best in Show final.

Pure Pet Food launch new dog food recipe Yorkshire-based pet food brand Pure Pet Food has launched its Wholesome Chicken recipe, which contains new and fresh 100% human grade ingredients such as cranberry, linseed and even chicory root. This is the company’s ninth dog food recipe and its most palatable yet, so is suitable for all dogs unless they’re allergic to chicken or suffer from pancreatitis or colitis.

Wholesome Chicken contains new ingredients as well as existing favourites such as sweet potato and salmon oil. It sits alongside eight other recipes and flavours, from turkey and duck to fish and beef.

Visit www.purepetfood.com for more information

The other six finalists were Frankie the Miniature Poodle, Pablo the Bichon Frisé, Elsie the Irish Setter, Drago the Bullmastiff, Zokni the Old English Sheepdog and Pixie the Kerry Blue Terrier.

Lucy’s Law – the story of a little dog who changed the world Third party sales of puppies and kittens is illegal in England thanks to the national campaign, Lucy’s Law. In line with the new law that came into effect in March 2020, ‘Lucy’s Law – the story of a little dog who changed the world’ by Marc Abraham has now been released.

The book is a powerful and incredibly moving story documenting the journey of Lucy, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel who was rescued on the brink of death from a

Welsh puppy farm with a curved spine from being kept in a cramped cage.

Her life was turned around when she was chosen for adoption and rehabilitated by dog-lover Lisa Garner, together with Marc – a vet determined to end the suffering of innocent animals – a journey began that would eventually change the world.

The book is now available to order from www.mirrorbooks.co.uk.

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4

ARTICLE

A guide to...

UNDERSTANDING LIVER HEALTH IN PETS The liver is an important organ with many functions including the digestion and conversion of nutrients, the removal of toxins from the blood, and the storage of vitamins and minerals.

Maintaining good liver health is vital for an animal’s general health and recovery. The liver plays an important role in the body and has a wide variety of functions, which include, filtering the blood from the digestive tract before passing it to the rest of the body. The liver detoxifies chemicals and metabolises whilst helping the liver when it’s processing medication.

Some of the main functions of the liver include: • Detoxifies blood • Balances cholesterol • Stores iron • Stores glycogen • Synthesis of the urea • Helps recovery

• Stores vitamins A, D, B12 and K • Stores blood • Generates bile • Produces proteins

Common causes of liver problems Unlike other organs, the liver is very good at regenerating itself, but serious damage to the liver can cause rapid failure of its function – this is known as acute liver failure.

Over 75% of the liver is usually damaged before liver failure occurs. Liver problems in pets can be caused by a number of factors, including: Toxins and poisons If your pets ingest any toxins or poisonous substances, the liver is often the first organ to be affected by this, as the liver is responsible for filtering toxins from the blood.

Long-term medications Certain types of long-term drugs for other health conditions can cause damage to the liver, as it is unable to process them properly and they can build up within the tissue of the liver itself. This may include certain commonly used veterinary painkillers or steroids, designed for chronic health problems, and this is something that your vet should make you aware of at the time.

Inappropriate diet Feeding your pet the correct diet for their age and life stage helps to ensure that they stay

healthy for life and can thrive, and feeding a diet that is not complete or is not the right fit, can lead to a whole range of both immediate problems, and those that take longer to manifest. While liver disease may not be one of the most obvious or immediate problems that can be caused by feeding the wrong diet, it is certainly something worth taking into account.

Congenital defects If a puppy is born with a congenital defect or hereditary health condition, it can then lead to the liver being poorly developed,

unable to function properly or susceptible to failure later on.

Pre-breeding health screening and finding out about the health of the parent dogs can help to avoid this problem.

Breed Certain dog breeds, such as Dobermans, Rottweilers, Yorkshire Terriers and Cocker Spaniels can be born with or are more likely to develop liver problems.

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5

Because the liver essentially works to rid the body of so many different substances, it can be susceptible to damage from many different causes. The signs of liver disease can be very similar to those of other conditions.

Some common signs to look out for include: • Poor or loss of appetite • Weight loss • Jaundice (yellowing of skin and white of eye) • Increased thirst • Vomiting or diarrhoea

• Changes in behaviour • Excessive drooling • Lack of energy or depression

Tips to maintain a healthy liver Not all liver problems can be prevented, but certain precautions can help to reduce the risk of specific diseases. Some of the positive things you can do to reduce the risk and keep your pet’s liver healthy include:

Diet Feed your pet a good nutritious diet. Avoid fatty dry foods that are difficult to digest. Your vet may recommend a low-fat, low-protein diet to help maintain your pet’s liver health.

Water Make sure your pet has plenty of clean, fresh water as they may experience increased thirst.

Key nutrients Silybin is a bioavailable form of Milk Thistle Extract, which has proven bioactive properties. SAMe has been shown to help healthy liver function.

Turmeric is a highly bioavailable antioxidant that helps to reduce free radicals.

Medications If medications are being used, they could be causing toxins to build up in the liver. Your vet can advise if these should be looked at.

Visit your vet Take your pet to the vet for regular health checks and vaccinations to help maintain a healthy liver. Be sure to take on board and follow any advice given.

They are best placed to monitor your pet’s health and ensure they receive the best possible care.

Remove toxins Remove toxins from your pet’s environment. Look at taking a more holistic approach to their diet and healthcare and look into reducing conventional care that can lead to the build-up of toxins.

Be wary on walks Keep an eye on your dog whilst on walks to avoid them eating poisonous plants or toadstools.

Exercise Be sure to keep up your pet’s exercise routine to help maintain your pet’s overall health, as well as support a healthy liver.

If you are worried about your pet’s liver health or health in general, you should speak to your vet who will be able to offer the best advice dependant on your pet’s age and breed.

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ADVICE

TOP TIPS to maintain healthy digestive function in pets As a pet owner it is important to understand how to support and maintain healthy digestive function for your cat or dog to prevent unwanted trips to the vet.

Dogs are especially curious and can pick up objects they shouldn’t.

Maintaining healthy digestive function helps your pet to live a healthy and happy life, however, there are a number of causes that can affect your dog’s digestion, which include: eating spoiled food, scavenging, food intolerance, bacteria imbalance, change of diet, stress or parasites.

Typical signs of a sensitive tummy can be characterised by a frequent runny nose, loose stools, loss of appetite, excessive flatulence and marked lethargy.

Here are some tips to help keep your pet’s gut healthy: Water

Diet

Your pet should be encouraged to consume more fresh water and this should be presented in a way that your pet prefers whilst having access to a constant supply. The aim of this is to reduce the chances of dehydration.

Your vet will be able to offer the best advice on your pet’s specific dietary requirements. A bland diet that is easily digestible, such as boneless cooked chicken breast and white rice can be advisable.

A specialised diet for gastrointestinal imbalance may be beneficial with small amounts of food given several times a day.

Try to keep treats to a minimum as too many could cause your pet to have a sensitive tummy.

Avoid table scraps The food we eat may not be suitable for your dog or cat. To maintain your pet’s digestive health, try to prevent family members from feeding your pet food not intended for them. Try not to give your pet table scraps or snacks, which could lead to a sensitive or poorly tummy.

Try to prevent your pet from scavenging When out on walks keep an eye on your dog to prevent them from picking up any foreign objects or discarded food. Also, prevent them from drinking from puddles and eating plant material.

Minimise stress Try to reduce any stress within your pet’s home and outdoor environment.

You could do this by keeping to your pet’s routine as much as possible, including sleeping, food and walking.

Ask your vet about Nutracalm, Vetpro or some of the plug-ins on offer such as Pet Remedy and Adaptil, which can all help to reduce stress and calm your pet’s behaviour.

Keep up-to-date with deworming and vaccinations Be sure to keep on track with deworming and disease vaccinations. Speak to your vet who will be able to advise a suitable course of action for your pet, dependent on their age and size.

Foreign bodies Be careful when giving your dog or cat small toys to play with. These can get chewed and swallowed, as well as causing discomfort for your pet, they can also cause choking. Keep an eye on your dog when playing with chews toys.

Outside access To avoid accidents within the home it is better to give your pet easy access to go outside or take them out frequently. However, it is important to monitor your pet’s toilet activities and general demeanour.

Be sure to keep a close watch on them and don’t let them stray too far.

Consider using Probiotics To help maintain long-term gut health and a healthy digestive balance, probiotics can help with conditions such as inflammatory bowl disease, chronic or infectious diarrhoea.

Probiotics can also help to optimise the efficiency of the immune response to help fight infection and boost the immune system, whilst helping to repopulate the balance of good bacteria that antibiotics can wipe out.

Vets often have access to veterinary strength probiotics such as Nutrabio, Vetpro and Nutraflora which they often recommend and others are available online such as Pro-Kolin and Fortiflora.

Follow your vet’s advice.

Be sure to take on board and follow any advice from your vet. They will be best placed to help with your pet’s gut and digestive health.

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PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

7 If you would like your product featured in a future edition please get in touch editor@companionlife.co.uk

In this edition, we highlight some pet products that we think our readers will love...

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Maintaining optimum skin and coat health for your pet is essential to ensure they lead a happy and healthy life. Nutramega has been specifically formulated to support the animal’s natural systems that control inflammation, in an easy to administer high strength gel capsule. Nutramega contains high quality Omega-3 fatty acids and Vitamin E, which naturally calms sensitive skin, soothes dry, flaky skin and reduces itching and scratching. www.nutravet.co.uk/ nutramega

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8

ARTICLE

Surviving Spring with pets

Spring is a warm welcome from the cold wintry days of the last few months, and we’re not the only ones pleased to turn our back on colder days.

Warmer weather and lighter evenings in Spring mean that pets generally spend more time outside, either exploring the garden or on walks.

However, with warmer weather comes colourful Spring flowers, the promise of Easter and hay fever. During this time of year, it’s important to keep an eye on pets to ensure they stay safe and prevent any unwanted trips to the vets.

companionlife.co.uk

9 Pets love nothing more than basking in the sun, exploring new smells and sights in the garden or on walks, however with this can come a number of challenges and hazards to look out for. We highlight some of the hazards that pet owners should be aware of during this time of year.

Plants and bulbs Spring bulbs of tulips and daffodils can be particularly toxic to cats and dogs. All parts of the plant are toxic, but the bulbs contain the most toxins. Pet owners should be extra vigilant and make sure your cat or dog are not digging up bulbs in the garden.

Lilies are highly hazardous to cats, including the petals, leaves, stem and pollen.

The more dangerous varieties include: Tiger, Day, Asiatic, Easter Lilies and Japanese Show. If cats ingest just a small amount of the plant, this could cause kidney failure.

Fertilizers Warmer weather can mean owners also want to spend more time in the garden.

Some pet owners are unaware of the detrimental effect some common garden products can have on dogs and cats.

While most fertilizers are not very toxic, resulting in minor gastrointestinal irritation when consumed, and without any treatment some can be fatal. A few common ones to be aware of are: - Blood Meal - Rose and plant fertilizers - Pesticides/Insecticides - Iron - Slug Pellets As a general rule always read the label of anything that you are adding to your garden as many will state if they are hazardous to pets. There are many pet-friendly alternatives now available, so don’t worry you can still enjoy your garden in full bloom.

Seasonal allergies Like their owners, pets can also develop seasonal allergies to pollen, grass or even some plants. Dogs are more likely to develop such allergies and cats in only rare instances.

Seasonal allergies can cause intense itching of the face, feet, ears, chest and tummy and manifest as part of a clinical problem called atopic dermatitis. To prevent your pet from scratching all season, speak to your vet as they will be able to offer advice on how to lessen the severity and give your pet some itch relief. Some nutraceuticals on the market, such as Nutramega or Vetpro could help with itchy skin during this time of year.

Cleaning products Some products used to clean the home can be dangerous to pets. Strong acid or alkaline cleaners are a big risk, such as rust removers or toilet bowl cleaners. Most cleaning products in small amounts will only cause an upset stomach, but even if you think your pet has ingested a small amount of any product get in touch with your vet who can advise what to do next.

Be sure to keep cleaning products in a secure or raised cupboard to prevent dogs or cats having access. When using products diluted in water, such as floor cleaners, keep an eye on pets to prevent them from sampling products. Undiluted cleaners, especially strong cleaners, can damage eyes and skin even without ingestion.

Easter treats With Spring comes Easter and eggs of the chocolate variety, which are very popular at this time of year.

Chocolate is toxic for dogs and should not be given to them. Even a small amount could cause serious health problems. Be sure to keep all chocolate treats away from pets and be careful of them picking up scraps off the floor. Keep some of your dog’s favourite treats on hand to stop them from begging and prevent you from being tempted to give them some.

Hot cross buns are also a popular choice around Easter time and raisins are toxic to pets. All grapes, raisins, currants, sultanas and any foods containing them can be harmful to your pet. Keep any of the above out of reach to ensure your dog does not sniff them out.

Fleas and ticks As the weather warms up this can increase the chances of your pets coming into contact with fleas, ticks or even worms. Infections from parasites can be very uncomfortable for your pet and in some instances could cause serious health problems.

Fleas can also cause irritation for pets, with some dogs and cats even having flea allergies. Many pets can be sensitive to fleas, which can cause allergies and skin diseases if not properly treated. Pets with flea allergies can be allergic to the saliva of the flea and become

very itchy after being bitten.

Your vet will be able to offer the best flea treatment sufficient for your pet. Be sure to also treat areas of your home, where your pet sleeps or may venture.

Bee and wasp stings Pets can have a range of reactions to bee and wasp stings. At their least dangerous, stings are merely a painful inconvenience. At their worst, however extreme immune reactions can cause serious swellings – if this is around the head and neck, construction of the airways and restriction of breathing can be a major concern.

Dogs and cats are particularly at risk, due to them often having an interest in catching and playing with wasps and bees they may find.

Keep an eye on any pets while outside and if you see them investigating any bees or wasps remove them from the situation if you are able to.

Cold water Despite the weather being slightly milder, water in lakes and streams will still be too cold for your pet. Keep an eye on them during walks and don’t let your dog jump in as the shock of the cold water could cause them to freeze up and struggle to swim or cause them to develop hypothermia.

If you think your pet may have eaten or been affected by any of the above, be sure to contact your vet right away, as they will be able to offer the best advice with regards to your pet’s health.

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Q&A

Q&A

With tails.com Head Vet Sean McCormack

Dogs get fed treats at almost HALF of human mealtimes, a new study by dog food company tails.com reveals. A separate study* by researchers from the University of Liverpool estimates that 59% of dogs in Britain are overweight and this could shorten their lifespan by 2.5 years. tails.com Head Vet Sean McCormack BSc (Hons), MVB, MRCVS, offers advice and tips on feeding treats to dogs in a safe and healthy way: What is the best way to count treats properly within a dog’s daily balanced diet?

My best advice on counting treats is to take out some of your dog’s food from their daily allowance and use that as treats throughout the day rather than adding more food into the mix. This is really easy with a dry kibble diet but can be done with a little cooked meat taken out too. Tinned food, not so much!

If you’re going to add additional treats on a daily basis then just realise, they all add up as extra calories. If your dog’s getting too many calories and not burning them off with activity and exercise, they’re going to gain weight.

How best to know you’re doing it right? Measure out their food and learn to measure your dog’s weight and body condition score (BCS).

If their weight is creeping up and scoring as overweight on a BCS assessment, then you know you’re feeding a bit too much.

When can ‘human’ food be given as treats? What human treats can owners feed safely?

Some ‘human food’ is totally off limits as it can be harmful to dogs, like chocolate, raisins and grapes, garlic and onions for example. But there are many healthy foods we don’t always associate with dog treats that can be a great alternative to some of the calorific dog treats on the pet food market.

If your dog needs to lose weight, sweet carrot sticks or green beans are a firm favourite of most dogs. They’re low in calories, yet high in fibre so your dog will feel fuller. Fruit or berries can be good but do contain natural sugars so go easy; sugar = calories.

Lean cuts of cooked meat are also a great, high value treat that most dogs will do back flips for! So, use sparingly when you’re teaching them new tricks or trying to correct certain unwanted behaviours.

Avoid fatty, processed foods which are highly calorific.

What factors should owners take into account when feeding treats?

There are a whole range of factors to think about when feeding our dogs, the right amount. First off, age is a factor because young, growing dogs have higher energy needs than adult or senior dogs.

Many people claim that their dogs got fat when they were neutered or spayed, but in reality, the effect of these health benefiting procedures is minimal. They’re usually carried out at precisely the time dogs have grown up and no longer need extra calories to support their rapid growth period as pups.

So, if we don’t dial down how much food and treats, we give at this stage it’s only natural that they’ll gain excess weight. Neutering isn’t an excuse for an overweight pet.

Your dog’s current weight and body condition is the most important factor in deciding how many treats to give, or to give them at all. If they are

* https://www.vettimes.co.uk/news/research-overweight-dogs-live-up-to-2-5-years-shorter/

overweight, then you’ll need to really pull back on treating, find less calorific alternatives or reduce their daily food allowance. Perhaps a combination of all three.

Finally, activity levels will determine how much food and calories your dog burns off each day. If something in your lifestyle changes and your dog is doing more or less exercise and activity than usual, adjust the amount you’re giving them accordingly, and use regular weight checks and Body Condition Score (BCS) to find the right balance.

How can owners stop feeling ‘mean’ for not treating their dog?

Reframe treats to head and belly scratches, verbal praise, an extra walk, some games, using feeding time puzzle feeders or hide and seek feeding.

You’re not doing your dog any favours if you’re overfeeding or over treating.

To read the full Q&A with Sean you can visit www.companionlife.co.uk/ articles.

Recognise yourself?

/animals

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ADVICE FROM THE EXPERT

11

Caring for ferrets

By Emma Purnell, RVN Cert.Nut. Ferrets can be cheeky and sociable pets but have specific care requirements that must be met to keep them happy and healthy. They usually have a lifespan of 8 -10 years so are a long-term commitment. Male ferrets are known as hobs, females are jills. Unneutered males in particular can have a very distinctive and quite strong smell and keeping them in social areas can sometimes be an issue.

Ferrets sleep for around 20 hours a day and are most active around dusk. Being natural predators, they must be kept well away from other animals as their smell will be hugely stressful for other species such as rabbits, guinea pigs etc.

Ferrets are obligate carnivores; they must eat meat.

Complete ferret diets are available but supplementing this with uncooked meat, offal and bones is ideal. Processed meats and cat or dog foods are not suitable due to processing and ferrets are lactose intolerant so no milk products should be given. Raw eggs given whole can be a great treat.

They will tend to eat small amounts frequently so feeding ad lib or little and often can be best, hence the switch for many owners to using the commercially produced ferret diets. Fresh clean water must always be available. Their weight will vary through the year – they can put on up to 40% of their body weight for winter which is normal.

Monitoring their weight year-round is still important and avoiding sugary treats can ensure they stay at their optimal weight.

Ferrets can, if given a lot of socialisation at all times, be kept alone but are more often kept in pairs or groups. Ideally this should be same sex littermates or neutered males

and females. Young ferrets tend to explore new places or people with their mouths, so nipping is not unusual. As carnivores, ferrets have sharp teeth and strong jaws, so these nips can be painful.

For first time owners, taking on a well-handled ferret 12 months old and over can be easier. If handled from a young age they can form a strong bond with their owners but are likely to bite hard if startled. They can be difficult to pick up and handle so are not ideal for children.

It is best to pick them up around the shoulders and support their bottom with your other hand. They do tend to fidget so care should be taken.

For a pair of ferrets, the recommended enclosure size is at least 10ft long, 6ft high and 6ft wide. Enclosures need to be very strong and secure as they will dig as well as escape easily though small gaps. In outdoor runs mesh will need to be laid, but with turf or carpet laid over the top to avoid the risk of injury when digging. They need a large sleeping area and enjoy hammocks and fleece bedding, which can be less messy and easier to clean. Enclosures should be dry, free of draughts but also well ventilated.

Ambient temperatures of 15-21C are best, they can struggle with hyperthermia in temperatures that are too high.

Ferrets can be litter trained; litter trays should be changed daily. They are playful and active creatures and need toys and mental stimulation to keep them happy. Scatter feeding can be great for this, hiding food around enclosures gets them active and searching. The enclosure should be checked daily for any old food, as they tend to

hide it and it can go off if not removed. Some ferrets enjoy a bath so it may be fun to add in a shallow bath, which they can easily get out of, however never force them to swim unless they seek it out.

Ferrets are usually vaccinated against distemper as this is a disease, they can catch and can be fatal to them. Neutering in ferrets is often carried out, especially for females who, when they come into season will stay in season until mated, given hormone injections or neutered. This can be a problem as it can lead to anaemia bone marrow depression and even death.

Neutering males can also reduce the smell and some of the greasy coat they are usually known for. Neutering has been linked to adrenal diseases so discuss the options with your vet before deciding. They can also be microchipped to ensure they do not get lost. Ear mites can be a common issue, but your vet can help with treatments for this. Claws may need

clipping, but this is usually not a difficult thing to do safely.

Flea treatments are available to prevent infestations and pet insurance is available through some companies to help with costs if there are any illnesses or accidents.

Ferrets can make wonderful pets in the right situations, but research is needed as they are not necessarily the right pets for every person or environment.

Emma qualified as a Veterinary Nurse in 2008 and works for Nutravet (UK) Ltd. She has a BSc in Zoology with Animal Ecology and an MSc in Ecology, helping to fuel her interest in more exotic species. She has a particular love of small furries and has a grade A distinction in Canine and Feline Clinical Nutrition (CertNut).

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