Articles tagged with 'Pet owner basics'
Can my ferrets get parasites?
Internal parasites Adult ferrets are rarely affected by internal parasites such as worms, but juvenile ferrets (whose immune systems are not fully developed) are susceptible to coccidiosis and Giardia – protozoal (single-celled) parasites that cause severe diarrhoea and weight loss.
How can I socialise my new guinea pig with other guinea pigs and my family?
Guinea pigs are incredibly gentle animals and can be a great animal companion for families, but they are a social species and need to be kept with other guinea pigs. In their natural habitat, they live in herds and communicate frequently with each other with sounds and body movements.
How do I stop my companion animal from getting fleas?
Fleas are external parasites. The most common type of flea that affects companion animals is the cat flea. These fleas can also infest dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs, rats, mice, chickens, wildlife and humans. Why are fleas a problem?
What should I feed my dog?
Domesticated dogs are largely carnivores but will also eat plant-based foods. Wild dogs eat a variety of food which comprise mainly of prey animals, consisting of raw meat, bones, organs and a small amount of the vegetable matter contained in the gut of their prey.
How do I care for my rabbits?
There are about 30 breeds of rabbits, ranging in colours, shapes, and sizes. The most popular breeds are the Dwarf Lop, the Mini Lop, and the Netherland Dwarf, but mixed breed rabbits are very common. They vary greatly in size with their average adult body weight anywhere between 1-8kg!
How will I keep my bird safe against household hazards?
Every year hundreds of birds suffer from health problems caused by their environment. Their human companions are often shocked (and horrified) when they discover that their bird has been exposed to a hazard in their own home, often a hazard of which they were not aware.
What company do my pet mice need?
Mice need the company of other mice and usually coexist happily together as long as they have enough space, resources, and opportunities to engage in behaviours they find rewarding, especially chewing and hiding/burrowing.
How should I handle my ferrets?
As with all animals, ferrets should be handled gently and with kindness and patience. They should be given choice about if, when, and how they interact with people. Using reward-based training (e. g.
Do my guinea pigs need to be wormed?
In general, guinea pigs do not need to be regularly wormed unless your guinea pigs’ vet confirms they have worms, as intestinal parasites are uncommon in guinea pigs. This is despite common advice that they should be wormed every three months. What intestinal parasites can guinea pigs carry?
How do I encourage my cat to use a litter tray?
Most cats can learn how to use a litter tray from an early age and often do this on their own without any assistance.