Losing a member of the family is difficult, both for human and non-human members of the household. It has been suggested that cats experience symptoms consistent with grief (e.g., anxiety, depression) [1, 2], and many people agree that cats grieve the loss of a loved one [2, 3]. In these…
How well cats get along with each other is influenced by a range of factors related to the owner, the cats, the environment, and husbandry. In some situations, cats may learn to get along. In other cases, they may not be compatible. Patience is absolutely key; each cat is an…
All cats are individuals and the way cats relate to one another varies – some cats enjoy the company of other cats, and some cats prefer not to interact with or have other cats around. How well a cat manages with/without other cats in the household can be influenced by…
The myxoma virus which causes myxomatosis is now widespread across the Australian environment which places domestic rabbits at risk of infection. There are two vaccinations against myxomatosis, but vaccination against myxomatosis is not permitted in Australia, so limiting exposure is the best preventative measure. Put mosquito netting around your rabbit’s…
It’s important that owners make sure their pet will be comfortable and safe during car transport. The laws regarding restraint of dogs in or on vehicles can vary between the states/territories. We recommend that you check: The Road Traffic Authority (or equivalent) Road rules. Check with the relevant state government…
What is inbreeding? Inbreeding is the mating of related individuals who have one or more ancestors in common [1]. Linebreeding is a form of inbreeding. Inbreeding reduces the genetic variation within that breed or population. Inbreeding has been a common practice in companion animals (and other domesticated species) as it…
Heatstroke is a life-threatening emergency. Seek veterinary attention immediately. Heatstroke involves potentially life-threatening elevations in body temperature (hyperthermia). Heatstroke is an emergency. In dogs, it can lead to rapid multi-organ failure and has a high mortality rate [1]. Signs of heatstroke Signs of heatstroke in dogs may include: constant panting,…
Aggressive behaviour (a threat, challenge, or attack) may include scratching, biting, and visual (e.g., changes in posture, erect fur), vocal (e.g., growling, hissing) and scent-based signals (e.g., urine spraying). If your cat is being aggressive towards your other cat, the first step is to work out why. When you identify…
Interacting with companion animals (including dogs, cats, rabbits, rodents, horses, fish, birds, reptiles and amphibians) can have a range of physical and mental health benefits for people [1,2]. Animal and human health and welfare are closely linked (concept known as ‘One Health’ and ‘One Welfare’), and animals have been described…
Emergency planning for pets is an important part of emergency household preparations and greatly increases the likelihood of evacuating your pets to safety if that is necessary. As well as being prepared for the need to evacuate, you should also be prepared to shelter in place (i.e. if it is…