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Welcome to Petplan’s blog, a space where you can read up on the latest pet-news, find out interesting facts and tips about keeping your pets happy and healthy, and share your views on hot topics.

How to train your kitten to use a scratching post

How to train your kitten to use a scratching post
Posted on by Petplan
This article contains: kitten tips petplan advice
Finding your brand new sofa has been clawed to shreds courtesy of your new kitten can be an incredibly frustrating and disheartening experience.

Often our natural reaction is to tell them off for their naughty behaviour. However, it’s common for kittens to use their claws to mark what they feel is their territory and as a way of filing down their claws.

So, the best way to save your furniture from being ruined is to train your cat on how to use a scratching post.

Petplan look at how to train your kitten to scratch the pole instead of your sparkling new upholstery…

Common illnesses in cats

Common illnesses in cats
Posted on by Petplan
Here at Petplan, keeping pets healthy and happy is our number one priority. Many pet owners assume that injuries are the biggest risk their pet faces, but 90% of the claims Petplan receives are for illness rather than injury.

We pride ourselves on our pet health knowledge and sharing this expertise with you.

New Year's resolutions for you and your pet

New Year's resolutions for you and your pet
Posted on by Petplan
As 2013 comes to an end, you may start to contemplate good intentions for the new year. But remember, resolutions are not limited to pet owners: our faithful friends can also benefit from some positive thinking. Here Julian Hall explores top tips of how to keep your pet perky in 2014.

More exercise is a great way to kick-start the year for both you and your pet.

The 12 tips for Christmas with your pet

The 12 tips for Christmas with your pet
Posted on by Petplan
The trees are going up, the presents are being wrapped, the food preparations are beginning, and the excitement is escalating - Christmas is just around the corner!

The festive season provides many exciting opportunities for our furry friends too; decorations to play with, wrapping paper to hide in - the choices are endless!

Scary season: what spooks your pet?

Scary season: what spooks your pet?
Posted on by Petplan
Whether it's things that go bump in the night or things that go bang in the sky, autumn can be a stressful time for pets and their owners. Julian Hall identifies some common causes of fright for our furry friends at this time of year, and how to avoid them.

The autumnal season is that little bit more hectic now with the growing popularity of Halloween and the various activities, from 'Trick or Treating' to the early onset of fireworks, which make up what is now effectively 'Bonfire Fortnight'.

Are our pets’ personalities programmed at birth?

Are our pets’ personalities programmed at birth?
Posted on by Petplan
Rachael Garside investigates whether nature or nurture has the greater influence on our companions’ behaviour.

Mike Mullan is used to seeing people cross the street to avoid him when he’s out walking his dogs. He’s the proud owner of two impressive Rottweilers, Lazer and Ross, but admits that he gets frustrated when people assume his pets are aggressive and unpredictable.

What to do about pet toileting problems

What to do about pet toileting problems
Posted on by Petplan
You never know when your pet might become a toilet rebel. But what’s behind it, and what can you do? Deirdre Vine investigates.

‘Inappropriate elimination’ – two sinister words that strike fear into every pet owner – can happen out of the blue, even with the most domesticated, well-trained animals. It’s certainly not uncommon, but it’s vital at the onset to rule out any underlying medical reason for the toileting dysfunction.

Brushing your pet's teeth – what to remember

Brushing your pet's teeth – what to remember
Posted on by Petplan
Good dental health contributes to the long-term wellbeing of your dog, cat or rabbit. Vet Alison Logan explains what to bear in mind when brushing your pet's teeth.

Since it’s not natural for a cat or dog to have their teeth brushed, it’s wise to introduce dental care from an early age and make it part of your pet’s daily routine.

Debate: Is it right or wrong to dress up pets?

Debate: Is it right or wrong to dress up pets?
Posted on by Petplan
Alison Jones, owner of pet clothing company Prince & Princess Petwear, explains why she thinks dressing up your pet is just a bit of harmless fun. In response, Lyn Williams, founder of dog charity Happy Dogs, reveals why she’s opposed to terriers in tutus.THE CASE FOR DRESSING UP, BY ALISON JONES

‘We started off selling collars on eBay and it snowballed from there. Business is really booming and we’ve had our best year yet. We ship pet clothes to Japan, Scandinavia and Estonia – but the UK market has really taken off.

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