Pet Care
As well as suffering from conditions that can affect all dogs and cats, such as vomiting or diahorrea, rescue dogs and cats can also suffer from health conditions unique to them being in a kennel environment. The most common illnesses at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home are kennel cough for dogs and cat flu for cats. In this section, we answer many of the questions frequently asked by dog and cat owners, including those who have just rehomed a rescue dog or cat.
Caring for your dog with kennel cough
- Kennel cough is particularly prevalent in densely populated areas, e.g. kennels and urban areas.
- Initial symptoms include sneezing, snuffles, a clear discharge and a cough. Owners often report that the cough sounds as if their dog has something caught at the back of his throat. During this time, your dog should remain bright and responsive and have a good appetite. In the majority of cases, the disease will progress no further and your dog will make an eventual recovery, with no need for medication.
- In some cases, the cough may progress to include signs such as green nasal discharge, a harsh hacking cough, lethargy, depression and reduced appetite. Please seek veterinary advice promptly, as treatment may be needed in these cases.
- Due to the highly contagious nature of kennel cough, you should keep your dog away from other dogs until he is fully recovered.
- Young and old animals are at greater risk and should be monitored carefully for any deterioration in health.
- A residual cough can last for a few weeks. If the cough is particularly harsh, your dog may retch or even vomit occasionally.
- If necessary, you can try stimulating your dog's appetite with warm, soft, smelly foods. Keep him in a warm, well -ventilated environment and give him lots of attention. It is best to keep exercise to a minimum and let him rest to encourage recovery.
Caring for your cat with cat flu
- Cat flu symptoms can include sneezing, a clear or green discharge from the nose, weepy eyes and occasionally mouth and tongue ulceration.
- In severe cases, the signs may include a lack of appetite, drooling or difficulty breathing.
- Try offering your cat warm and smelly foods to encourage eating, e.g. tuna and chicken.
- Young and old cats are at greater risk and should be monitored carefully for any deterioration in health.
- If your cat is quieter than normal, not showing any interest in food or displaying any of the signs above then please seek veterinary advice.
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The importance of neutering dogs and cats
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The importance of neutering dogs and cats
An explanation of what neutering involves and the benefits for your pet. (168kb)
