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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.

Bringing home a kitten: the first 24 hours

Bringing home a kitten: the first 24 hours
Posted on by Petplan
This article contains: Kittens first 24 hours getting a kitten
Whether you are an experienced cat owner or it’s your first time adopting a kitten, it’s vital to properly prepare for the arrival of your new kitty to make it as stress-free as possible for the both of you. Petplan takes a look at your kitten’s first 24 hours in their new home and offers some advice on how to make settling in as easy as possible.

What to know if you are buying a… West Highland White Terrier

What to know if you are buying a… West Highland White Terrier
Posted on by Petplan
This article contains: dog breeds west highland white terrier
There are many aspects that potential dog owners need to consider before acquiring a dog or puppy and each breed has their own unique personalities and health care needs.

Petplan takes a look at the origins, temperament and common health problems of the West Highland White Terrier…

Petplan takes a look at the origins, temperament and common health problems of the West Highland White Terrier…

Tips On What Your Rabbits Can Eat | Rabbit Care

Tips On What Your Rabbits Can Eat | Rabbit Care
Posted on by Petplan
This article contains: Rabbit health rabbit diet
Despite what Bugs Bunny may have led you to believe, carrots shouldn’t be a major part of a rabbit’s diet as they contain high sugar levels, although can be given as an occasional treat.

Petplan takes a look at which types of food are good for rabbits and which should be avoided…

The Secret Life of Pets: Chloe loves her food! How can you keep your cat’s waistline trim?

The Secret Life of Pets: Chloe loves her food! How can you keep your cat’s waistline trim?
Posted on by Petplan
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If you think you know what your pet gets up to when you’re not around, the new comedy The Secret Life of Pets, which is in cinemas now, may make you think differently.

Set in Manhattan we see how Max, a pampered Terrier, and his friends fill their hours with fun and adventure while their owners’ backs are turned.

One friend is Chloe, a rather, shall we say, ‘tubby’ cat who, like many cats, takes any opportunity to have a good feed!

It can be tricky controlling your cat’s weight, especially when they roam outdoors and can access food, but you can certainly take steps to make sure your cat doesn’t end up with a few excess pounds, and reduce their risk of developing liver disease, arthritis, diabetes, high blood pressure or skin problems – all conditions that can be associated with obesity.

Petplan are delighted to be a brand partner for the film and share our top six tips for keeping your cat fighting fit…

1. Is my cat overweight?

It can be difficult to determine whether your cat is overweight, particularly in long-haired breeds. Happily, Petplan has a guide for body-scoring your cat so you can check.

2. Talk to your vet

It’s important to rule out any underlying health problems that could be causing weight-gain. Consult with your vet, and if your cat gets the all clear – ask your vet what your cat’s ideal weight should be.

3. Cut out the treats!

The odd treat can seem like a small thing, but a couple of treats a day adds up. A piece of cheese can be the equivalent of a whole meal for your cat in terms of the amount of calories and can really add up! Reward your cat with your attention instead, such as their favourite game.

4. Try a lighter formula diet & feed little and often

Most pet food brands offer a ‘light’ formula for overweight cats or those prone to putting on weight. These diets have fewer calories. Follow the recommended daily amount by measuring out the amount on kitchen scales, or most pet food brands have feeding cups available which makes measuring your cat’s daily amount much easier.

5. Feed little and often

Try splitting your cat’s portions into smaller but more frequent meals – but still ensure you only feed their daily recommended amount. If you have more than one cat, feed them separately in different rooms.

6. Get kitty active!

If your cat would rather lounge around the house than exert themselves in any way, then making exercise fun is the best way to encourage them to get active.

Set up a daily play session with them – play ball or try cat feeder dispenser toys which make your cat work to unlock a treat. Only use their usual food (from their daily allowance) and not high calorific treats. Investing in climbing towers or shelves, whilst alternatives such as putting their feeding bowl at the top of a flight of stairs or at heights, can encourage them to move and jump.

If your feline friend is an indoor cat then consider letting them out into a securely fenced-off garden or an outside playpen. House cats can be prone to lethargy and laziness, and fresh air and new stimulation can often be the cure for this.

Does your cat love their food like Chloe? Has your pet overcome obesity? Let us know your tips in the comments below…..

The Secret Life of Pets: Pops may be old, but that doesn’t stop his adventures! How to ensure senior dogs, like Pops, stay happy and healthy 

The Secret Life of Pets: Pops may be old, but that doesn’t stop his adventures! How to ensure senior dogs, like Pops, stay happy and healthy 
Posted on by Petplan
This article contains:
If you think you know what your pet gets up to when you’re not around, the new comedy The Secret Life of Pets, which is in cinemas now, may make you think differently.

Petplan is delighted to be a brand partner for the film and takes a look at health problems that can affect dogs as they age and how best to ensure your dog stays happy like Pops…

Having an older dog is a great experience. While they may not have the youthful energy of a young pup, they more than make up for it with their calm demeanour and loving nature.

However, as they enter their twilight years, they may be susceptible to health issues. Petplan identify health problems that may creep up and offers advice & tips & on how to help your ageing pooch…

Stories from the surgery: treating cataracts and Lenticular Sclerosis in dogs

Stories from the surgery: treating cataracts and Lenticular Sclerosis in dogs
Posted on by Petplan
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Petplan vet Brian Faulkner has once again taken time out of his busy schedule to tell us all about some of the strange, funny and sometimes difficult cases he encounters in his surgery.

This month, he tells us about how one very innocuous condition is regularly being mistaken for a far more serious one…

What to know if you are buying a… Bengal Cat

What to know if you are buying a… Bengal Cat
Posted on by Petplan
This article contains: cats bengal cat
There are many aspects that potential cat owners need to consider before acquiring a cat or kitten and each breed has their own unique personalities and health care needs.

Petplan takes a look at the origins, temperament and common health problems of the Bengal cat…

What to do if your cat or dog gets lost or goes missing

What to do if your cat or dog gets lost or goes missing
Posted on by Petplan
This article contains: microchipping lost pet
It’s a moment every pet owner dreads – the moment you realise your beloved animal may be lost or missing.

Knowing what to do and how to respond is important, as the sooner you take action the more likely your pet is to be returned to you safely.

Petplan takes a look at how to minimise the risk and what to do to ensure the safe return of your pet if they do wander off…

Stomach Bloats in Dogs | Stories From The Surgery

Stomach Bloats in Dogs | Stories From The Surgery
Posted on by Petplan
This article contains: Dog Advice Stories from the surgery
Petplan vet Brian Faulkner has once again taken time out of his busy schedule to tell us all about some of the strange, funny and sometimes difficult things he encounters in his surgery.

This month, he tells us of a recent sleepless night because of a dog with Gastric Dilatation Volvulus…

What to know if you're buying a… Jack Russell Terrier

What to know if you're buying a… Jack Russell Terrier
Posted on by Petplan
This article contains: Jack Russell Dog Advice Breed profile
There are many aspects that potential dog owners need to consider before acquiring a dog or puppy and each breed has their own unique personalities and health care needs.

Petplan takes a look at the origins, temperament and common health problems of the Jack Russell Terrier…

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