First Fireworks Season with Your Pet? Here’s What to Know
Fireworks season can be a magical time of year for us, but for our pets, it often means a lot of stress and anxiety. If you’re new to fireworks season with furry companions, don’t worry – here’s a guide from Rouken Glen Vets’ Veterinary Surgeon Richard Black, to help you and your pets navigate this noisy season with ease.
Contact Us About Pet Calming Aids
Understanding pet anxiety during fireworks
Fireworks can be incredibly frightening for pets. The loud bangs, bright flashes, and unfamiliar smells create a sensory overload that many animals find overwhelming. Dogs might bark excessively or hide, while cats could cower in corners or refuse to come out. Rabbits may freeze or become unusually skittish. Richard explains that understanding this is the first step in helping them cope.
Preparing your pets for fireworks
1. Create a Safe Space: Designate a quiet, comfortable area where your pet can retreat when the fireworks start. This could be a cosy corner with their favourite bed, blanket, and toys. For rabbits, a snug hideaway or a covered area in their enclosure can provide security. Set this up a few weeks before the fireworks begin and encourage your pet to relax it in with some treats and toys.
2. Use Calming Products: Richard shares that there are various products designed to help soothe pets during stressful times including:
- Calming Diffusers: Products like Feliway for cats or Adaptil for dogs, release pheromones that mimic natural calming signals.
- Calming Treats: Treats with ingredients like valerian root or chamomile can help to relax your pet.
- Anxiety Wraps and T-shirts: These are snug-fitting garments that gently apply pressure to your pet’s body, helping to calm them down.
Playing calming music or white noise, or having the TV or radio on can drown out the sound of fireworks, which can help your pet too.
Get in touch with our team at Rouken Glen Vets now to discuss which calming aids would work best for your pet. Some products need to be started a few weeks ahead of the fireworks for the greatest effect.
3. Exercise and Distraction: Richard recommends giving your pet plenty of exercise earlier in the day to help reduce their anxiety. Engaging in a long walk with your dog or playtime with your cat can tire them out. Providing interactive toys or puzzles can also help distract them from the fireworks.
What your pet needs during the fireworks
1. Keep Them Indoors: Ensure that your pets are safely indoors during firework displays. Open windows or doors can let in more noise, so close them and draw the curtains to muffle the sounds. Richard advises that bringing rabbit hutches indoors during autumn and winter can help to provide them with the quiet, warmth, and comfort they need to thrive through these harsher months in East Renfrewshire.
2. Stay Calm Yourself: Pets are very perceptive to their owners’ emotions. If you remain calm and reassuring, your pet is more likely to feel secure. Avoid making a fuss over them, as this can sometimes exacerbate their anxiety.
3. Never Leave Pets Alone: It’s important to be with your pets during the fireworks. Your presence provides comfort and reassurance. If you can’t be there, try to arrange for someone to stay with them or use calming products as needed – talk to our team about these now.
Training and long-term solutions
Richard advises that if your pet has severe anxiety about fireworks, talk to our veterinary team at Rouken Glen Vets for long-term strategies. Our vets can advise on desensitisation training, which can help your pet become more accustomed to the sounds of fireworks over time, reducing their anxiety in future seasons. For severe cases, our vets may prescribe medication to help calm your pet.
We’re here to help
If you’re fairly new to pet ownership, navigating fireworks season with pets might seem daunting at first, but with a bit of preparation and understanding, you can make it a lot more manageable. By following the advice above, Richard says you’ll help to ensure that both you and your pets can weather the fireworks season with minimal stress. For more advice on pet calming aids and how else we can support you both, get in touch with our team in Giffnock now.
How to Transition Your Pet’s Routine from Summer to Autumn
As summer fades into autumn in East Renfrewshire, the team at Rouken Glen Vets say it’s a good idea to adjust your pet’s routine to align with the changing season. Below are some tips from our vets and nurses to help you transition your pet’s routine smoothly.
Transitioning from Summer to Autumn
Adjusting feeding times
- Monitor Daylight Hours: With shorter days, your pet’s feeding schedule may need a tweak. As it gets darker earlier in East Renfrewshire, you might need to adjust meal times to align better with your and your pet’s daily routine. Feeding cats earlier can signal to them that’s it’s time to come indoors earlier, thus avoiding them being out in the dark for longer.
- Check Weight and Activity Levels: Autumn often brings cooler weather and less outdoor activity. Keep an eye on your pet’s weight and adjust their food intake if needed – they might need slightly fewer calories if they’re less active. Our veterinary nurses in Giffnock can help you work out how much food to feed your pet – contact us to book a nurse appointment now.
- Switch to Seasonal Foods: Consider incorporating seasonal ingredients into your pet’s diet. Foods like pumpkin (in small doses) can be great for digestion and are often available in pet food formulas during autumn.
Modifying exercise routines
- Adapt to Cooler Weather: Autumn weather is often cooler and can be more pleasant for outdoor activities. This is a great time to increase exercise if your pet was less active during the hotter summer months in East Renfrewshire.
- Adjust for Daylight: With shorter daylight hours, plan your walks and playtime during daylight to ensure safety and maximise your pet’s enjoyment. Not-too-early mornings, lunchtime slots and/or late afternoons might be ideal times for both of you.
- Watch for Seasonal Hazards: Our veterinary nurses recommend being mindful of autumn-specific hazards like fallen leaves, which can sometimes hide sharp objects or mould. Keep an eye on your pet to avoid ingestion of potentially harmful substances.
Keeping pets warm and comfortable
- Create a Cosy Space: As temperatures drop, ensure your pet has a warm and comfortable place to sleep. Consider a cosy pet bed or blanket to help them stay warm. If you can, our nurses in Giffnock recommend bringing outdoor pets, such as rabbits and guinea pigs, indoors to help them stay warm and comfortable during these cooler months.
- Adjust Grooming Routines: Some pets might require more grooming in autumn due to shedding or changes in their coat. Regular brushing can help keep their coat in good condition and reduce the amount of fur they might ingest. For autumn pet grooming advice, book a nurse consult with our friendly team.
- Provide Warm Clothing: For pets with short coats or those particularly sensitive to the cold, consider getting them a pet jumper or jacket. Make sure it’s comfortable and fits properly. However, you should avoid leaving them unsupervised wearing clothing in case they get too hot or tangled up; extra blankets are best for alone time.
Additional tips
- Check for Allergies: Autumn can bring about new allergens like mould from fallen leaves and mould in the home from damp. Monitor your pet for signs of allergies such as itching or sneezing and book a vet appointment at Rouken Glen Vets if you notice any issues.
- Hydration is Key: Although it’s cooler, your pet still needs access to fresh water at all times. Ensure they stay hydrated, especially if they’re more active. Try adding a small amount of water to your pet’s food for added hydration.
By adjusting your pet’s routine to fit the changing season, you can help ensure they stay happy, healthy, and comfortable as the weather transitions from summer to autumn in East Renfrewshire.
Teach Your Pet These Pawsome Party Tricks
Enrich your pet’s playtime and impress your friends by teaching your furry friend some fun tricks! But before you break out the clicker and treats, it’s important to consider your pet’s personality and natural abilities. Here at Rouken Glen Vets, we’ve put together some ideas to get you started, with tips for different furry (or fluffy) pets.
Remember to capture your pet’s best attempts (and bloopers) with your camera. We’d love to see, please do share your pet photos and videos on our Facebook page.
Pet tricks to make your bestie shine!
Tricks for Daring Doggies:
Dogs are natural learners and love to please, making them prime candidates for trick training. Get your dog to share their skills at their next visit to Rouken Glen Vets and we’ll be sure to reward them with extra treats!
- The Classics: “Sit,” “Stay,” and “Shake” are a great foundation for more complex tricks.
- High Fives: Hold a treat out flat and guide your dog’s paw to touch it. Reward with praise and the treat!
- Spin: Lure your dog with a treat in a circular motion, gradually fading the lure as they get the hang of it.
Tricks for Curious Cats:
Cats can be more independent, but according to our cat-loving veterinary nurses at Giffnock, with patience and positive reinforcement, some cats can learn impressive tricks too!
- Jumping Through Hoops: Start with a large hoop and gradually reduce the size as your cat becomes confident.
- Target Training: Touch a target stick (like a chopstick) to their nose and reward them when they touch it back. This can be used to teach them to touch other objects on command.
- Fetch: Some cats love to chase after toys! Start by throwing a lightweight ball near them and gradually increase the distance.
Tricks for Rabbits:
Rabbits are intelligent creatures who can learn simple tricks with positive reinforcement. We’d love to see your rabbit enjoying their trick training – pop over to Rouken Glen Vets’ Facebook page and share your photos and videos.
- Coming When Called: Start by saying their name while offering a treat. Gradually increase the distance and only reward them when they come to you.
- Spin: Hold a treat near their nose and slowly turn in a circle. They might naturally follow the treat, earning a reward when they complete a full spin.
- Obstacle Course: Set up a simple course with tunnels and boxes. Lure them through with treats, gradually increasing the complexity as they get the hang of it.
Remember:
- Keep it Positive: Use praise, petting, and treats to reward your pet for good attempts.
- Short Sessions: Training should be fun, not stressful. Aim for short, frequent sessions to keep your pet engaged.
- Respect Their Limits: Not all pets will enjoy learning tricks. Read your pet’s body language and stop if they seem disinterested or frustrated.
Beyond the basics:
We hope you enjoyed our trick training for dogs, cats and rabbits. The internet is FULL of inspiration for more advanced tricks. Just remember to choose tricks that are suitable for your pet’s natural abilities and always prioritise their wellbeing. With patience and positive reinforcement, you might just have the star of the show at your next gathering!
So, grab those treats and get training!
Make our day and pop into our vet practice in Giffnock to show off your pet’s skills, or share their antics on our Facebook page!
Gentle Handling Advice for Small Pets: Richard’s Guide for Parents
Introducing small pets like hamsters, guinea pigs, or rabbits to your family can be a delightful experience. These tiny companions bring joy and teach children about responsibility and empathy. However, ensuring they are handled gently and correctly is crucial for their wellbeing.
Vet Richard Black has created this guide to help parents in East Renfrewshire understand the importance of gentle handling and how to explain this concept to young children.
Why gentle handling is important
Small pets are delicate creatures. Mishandling can lead to stress, injury, or even fear, making them less sociable and harder to care for. Richard explains that gentle handling helps to build trust between the pet and the handler, creating a safe and loving environment for your pet to thrive. Read Richard’s tips on how to teach kids to hold hamsters and other small pets safely and become confident pet handlers.
Richard’s tips for handling small pets
- Use Both Hands: Always support your pet with both hands. Place one hand under their chest and the other under their hindquarters.
- Stay Calm and Quiet: Approach your pet slowly and speak softly to avoid startling them.
- Close to the Ground: When holding your pet, keep them close to the ground or over a soft surface in case they wriggle free.
- Regular Breaks: Limit handling time to a few minutes to prevent your pet from becoming stressed.
- Supervision: Always supervise young children when they are handling hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits, and other small pets to ensure they follow the guidelines.
For more advice on gentle handling from our team, book a small pet appointment by calling 0141 620 2580.
Explaining gentle handling to young children
Introducing small pets to young children can be a rewarding experience if approached correctly. Here’s Richard’s guide on how to explain gentle handling to kids:
- Use Clear Language: “Small pets like our hamster are very delicate. They need us to be very gentle with them so they don’t get hurt.”
- Demonstrate First: Show your child how to hold the pet gently, using soft hands and calm movements. Let them observe a few times before they try.
- Create a Story: “Imagine if you were as small as our guinea pig. You would want people to hold you softly, right? That’s how we should treat our pets.”
- Practice with a Toy: Give your child a stuffed animal to practice gentle handling. This can help them understand the right amount of pressure to use.
- Use Positive Reinforcement: Praise your child when they handle the pet gently. Positive reinforcement will encourage them to continue the right handling technique and behaviour.
Teaching children how to hold hamsters and other small pets gently is essential for the safety and happiness of the pets and fosters a caring attitude in young minds. By using simple language and practical demonstrations, East Renfrewshire parents can ensure their children learn the importance of gentle handling.
The Art of Keeping Pets Cool on a Hot Summer’s Day
The sun is blazing and the heat is on in East Renfrewshire. While we humans have various ways to beat the heat, our furry friends often need a little extra help staying cool when the mercury soars. Fear not, pet parents, for we’ve got you covered with some cool tips to keep your beloved companions comfortable and safe on those scorching summer days.
If your pet is not coping well in the heat, contact our team at Rouken Glen Vets for advice.
The Art of Keeping Pets Cool
Whilst most of us look forward to a hot summer in East Renfrewshire, it can get too hot for our pets and affect their health. Here’s our advice on how to keep your pet’s cool:
- Hydration: Keep water bowls filled up, ensuring your pet stays refreshed and revitalised.
- Cool Spaces: Create cool havens indoors, avoid hotspots like porches & conservatories.
- Shady Retreats: Offer shady spots for your pet to relax in away from the sun’s glare.
- Outdoor Comfort: Design outdoor areas & enclosures with shade and consider bringing pets indoors on very hot days.
- Heat-Free Zones: Keep pets away from outdoor hot spots like greenhouses & sheds.
- Cool Runnings: Plan outdoor activities for cooler times of the day to prevent overheating.
- Car Safety: Never leave pets in hot cars, ensuring they’re always safe and cool by your side.
- Water Watch: Supervise pets around water features, ensuring they play safely.
- Vigilant Monitoring: Watch for signs of heatstroke like panting & vomiting, and act quickly.
- Emergency Care: Seek vet help immediately if your pet shows signs of overheating.
If you would like any further advice or your pet is struggling in the heat, contact our team at Rouken Glen Vets.
Now, for some more pet tips & treats!
Dogs:
Treat your dog to a splash in the paddling pool or set up a shady spot with a wet towel or cooling mat for them to lie on. Frozen treats like doggy ice lollies made from pet-safe ingredients (such as strawberries) are also a paw-some way to keep your canine companion cool and satisfied.
Got a favourite doggy ice-cream hot spot in East Renfrewshire? Let our followers know on Facebook!
Cats:
Provide plenty of fresh water for your cat to drink, add ice cubes to keep it cold. Create a cat-friendly chill zone indoors with closed curtains, a fan, cooling floor tiles or even a damp cloth straight from the freezer. When trying something new, introduce it slowly and monitor your cat’s response.
Rabbits & Small Furry Pets:
Fluffy furballs like rabbits, guinea pigs and hamsters can quickly overheat and need cool retreats. Our vet nurses in Giffnock suggest frozen water bottles wrapped in towels or a ceramic tile that’s been chilled in the fridge make excellent cooling spots. For rabbits, you can lightly mist their ears with cool water, but don’t leave them too wet & cold.
Remember, pet parents – when it comes to keeping your pets cool on a hot day, a little extra TLC goes a long way. So, break out the frozen goodies, set up the shade, and let’s keep our pet pals happy!
For more heat-related pet advice, contact our experienced team at Rouken Glen Vets.
Is my rabbit overweight? Try this simple test
Just like in humans, an unhealthy weight and body composition in rabbits can lead to range of health problems. Our vet Richard Black, shares a simple test you can do at home to check whether your rabbit could be carrying more body fat than is healthy. Richard also explains below, why Rouken Glen Vets’ nursing team are the perfect people to help you confirm and combat this.
Book a rabbit weight review with a nurse
Why excess body fat is a problem for rabbits
Vet Richard Black, explains why it’s important to make sure your rabbit isn’t carrying too much body fat as this can cause health problems, such as:
- Behavioural changes
- Dental issues
- Digestive disorders
- Heart & respiratory issues
- Heat stress in hot weather
- Increased risk of flystrike (from not being able to reach their bottom to clean it)
- Lethargy
- Mobility issues, joint strain and arthritis
- Reduced quality of life and a decreased lifespan
- Reproductive complications
- Skin conditions
- Splayed legs
- Urinary problems
Try this simple test on your rabbit
Richard suggests trying this at home if your rabbit is happy for you to do it:
- Spine: Run your fingers lightly along the spine; if it feels softly rounded, that’s ideal. If the bones are too prominent or sharp, your rabbit could be under-weight. If the spine is difficult to feel, there is probably too much body fat.
- Ribs: Feel along your rabbit’s sides with both hands; being able to feel their ribs under a slight layer of fat is ideal. If the ribs are difficult to feel, your rabbit may be overweight.
- From Above: A pear-shaped body with a slimmer waist and shoulders is ideal. A rectangular or boxy shape suggests excess fat.
- From The Side: A gentle upward curve towards the chest and shoulders is ideal. A straight line from the belly to the chest indicates excess fat.
If you think your rabbit could be carrying too much body fat, book a weight review with Rouken Glen Vets’ nursing team soon.
How Rouken Glen Vets’ nurses can help
Richard recommends talking to our veterinary nursing team in Giffnock as they are highly experienced in caring for rabbits and helping owners manage their pet’s weight. Our nurses will first confirm if your rabbit is overweight and what their ideal weight and body composition should be. Then, from tailored diet and exercise plans to regular weigh-ins and support, you can count on our veterinary nurses to help you help your rabbit reach new goals.
By addressing these issues sooner rather than later, you can help prevent and manage obesity in your rabbit, and promote better health and longevity.
Vets in Giffnock share the health risks of parasites in small pets
While pet rodents like mice, rats, and hamsters may be small in size, they can still be susceptible to internal parasites like tapeworms and pinworms. Our vets in Giffnock want owners of small furry pets to be aware of these potential health threats and be able to spot the signs of worms at home.
Ask us about small pet parasite treatments
Before we dive in, did you know that April is National Pet Month? Share a photo or video of your tiny companion on our Facebook page and let’s celebrate the joy of pet ownership together!
Understanding tapeworms and pinworms
- Tapeworms are common in rodents and are typically transmitted through the ingestion of infected fleas or lice. Once ingested, tapeworm larvae develop into adult worms in the rodent’s intestines, where they can grow and produce eggs, perpetuating the cycle of infection.
- Pinworms are small, thread-like parasites that can also infect the intestines of rodents, often through the ingestion of contaminated food or bedding.
Five signs of tapeworm and pinworm infestations:
Vet Richard Black at our Giffnock vet practice shares that detecting tapeworms and pinworms in pet mice, rats, and hamsters can be challenging, as these parasites may not always produce noticeable symptoms. However, there are some signs that may indicate a worm infestation in your furry friend:
- Weight loss despite having a normal appetite.
- Visible worm segments (in the case of tapeworms) that look like small, rice-like pieces in your pet’s faeces or around their bottom area.
- Itching and irritation around the bottom area, leading to excessive grooming or scratching.
- Appearing lethargic or less active than usual.
- A rough, dull coat could indicate an underlying health issue, including a worm infestation.
Preventing and treating worm infestations
Richard advises pet owners that preventing worm infestations in pet rodents begins with good hygiene and sanitation practices. By keeping your pet’s cage clean, and providing fresh bedding and food regularly, you can minimise the risk of exposure to parasites. Additionally, Richard recommends that you should avoid feeding your pet rodents wild-caught insects or uncooked grains, as these may carry tapeworm eggs or pinworm larvae.
If you suspect your pet mouse, rat, or hamster may have tapeworms or pinworms, get in touch with our Giffnock team promptly. Richard or another of our vets can perform a thorough examination and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include deworming medications or other interventions to help eliminate the parasites. Additionally, our vets can offer guidance on preventive measures to reduce the risk of future infestations in your small furry pets.
Remember, early detection and intervention are key to managing worm infestations in pet rodents. By staying vigilant and seeking veterinary care at the first sign of trouble, you can help protect your tiny companions from the harmful effects of internal parasites.
Ask us about small pet parasite treatments
Before you go, pop over to our Facebook page and share a photo or video of your small furry pets to celebrate National Pet Month!
Get Rouken Glen Vets’ guide to edible gardens for small furries
What better way to celebrate the arrival of spring in East Renfrewshire than by growing an edible garden for your small furry pets? Whether you have rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils or other small pets, cultivating an edible garden not only provides them with fresh and nutritious treats but can also offers a rewarding and interactive experience for both pet and owner.
In this article, Rouken Glen Vets’ nursing team share the benefits of growing an edible garden for your pet, as well as tips on which foods to plant and what you’ll need to get started. Plus, download our step-by-step guide on how to:
Grow an Edible Garden for Small Furry Pets
Choosing the right edible garden
When it comes to edible gardens for small pets, there are two ways you can go. Rouken Glen Vets’ team of nurses think you’ll probably end up wanting to build both!
Option 1 – Grow an edible garden for you to harvest
Creating an area in your East Renfrewshire garden to grow your own fruit & vegetables that can supplement your pet’s diet is a win-win on many levels; home-grown foods are super fresh and full of essential nutrients, they are free from chemicals (when you don’t user chemical fertiliser or pesticides), often cheaper than buying from the shop, and there’s no plastic wrappers to throw away. Plus, gardening can be fun and rewarding!
Our nurses can recommend several common vegetables that you can grow in your garden which are suitable for rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and gerbils. These include:
- Carrots: Rich in vitamin A and provide essential nutrients for these small pets.
- Lettuce: Leafy greens (e.g. romaine, green leaf & red leaf lettuce) are safe in moderation.
- Kale: High in vitamins and minerals; give in moderation due to its calcium content.
- Spinach: Give in moderation due to its oxalic acid content.
- Broccoli: Rich in vitamins & minerals, including vitamin C, give in small amounts as a treat.
- Bell Peppers: Provide essential nutrients such as vitamin C, can be fed raw or cooked.
- Cucumber: Low in calories and provides essential hydration for these small pets.
- Zucchini: Low in calories, provides essential vitamins & minerals, can be fed raw or cooked.
When feeding fresh vegetables from your garden to rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and gerbils, it’s essential to wash them thoroughly and provide them in appropriate portion sizes. Introduce new foods gradually and monitor your pet for any adverse reactions. Additionally, talk to our Giffnock nurses about providing a balanced diet tailored for your small pet – get in touch.
Option 2 – Grow an edible garden for your pet to forage in
You can create an interactive and enriching experience for your pet by building an edible garden they can forage in, which will mimic their natural wild behaviours.
The materials you will need will depend on the type of small furry pet you have. For rabbits and guinea pigs you’ll need a large plant pot or trough that can be moved in and out of their hutch easily, or placed in an outdoor run that isn’t accessible all the time. For hamsters and gerbils, you’ll need a second cage (we suggest checking online for second hand ones) that you can place a pet-safe plastic tray inside. It’s wise not to give your pet access to their garden all the time so they don’t eat everything in one sitting!
It’s Gardening Time!
You’ll need to remember that ‘gardening time’ for your small furry pet will be messy – they will dig, rip up, throw things out and basically undo all your hard work, but they’ll have so much fun doing it! You could make this a weekend fun activity and have a few trays or troughs growing at the same time that you can swap in and out, doing a little maintenance and replanting along the way!
To get you started, Rouken Glen Vets’ team of nurses have shared some examples of edibles you can grow, sow, or throw into your planter or tray:
- For rabbits: Mint, parsley, basil, dill, and carrot tops.
- For guinea pigs: Bell peppers, strawberries, cilantro, and kale.
- For hamsters: Dandelion leaves, sunflower seeds, and small amounts of broccoli.
- For gerbils: Blueberries, cilantro, and small amounts of apple.
For a list of the materials you will need and additional seeds you can buy, plus instructions on how to build your pet’s very own edible garden, download our ‘how to’ guide:
Good foods for dental health: advice for rabbit owners in East Renfrewshire
Did you know that your pet rabbit’s teeth will continually grow for their entire life? To maintain your furry friend’s oral health, it is essential that you provide them with the correct nutrition that supports natural wear and tear. In this article, Vet Richard Black explores the foods that Rouken Glen Vets recommends to help keep your rabbit’s teeth healthy and strong.
Book a dental exam for your rabbit
Foods that are good for rabbit oral health
Vet Richard Black wants to help rabbit owners in East Renfrewshire understand exactly which foods, and things you can probably find in your garden, will really help to maintain your rabbit’s dental health.
The importance of hay
According to Richard, hay is the cornerstone of a rabbit’s diet and plays a vital role in maintaining dental health. The fibre in hay encourages constant chewing, which naturally grinds down your rabbit’s teeth. Richard recommends offering a variety of hays like timothy, meadow, or orchard grass to keep their diet interesting and ensure they receive essential nutrients.
Fresh leafy greens
Leafy greens like kale, spinach, and romaine lettuce are not only packed with vitamins and minerals but also provide the necessary crunch to help wear down your rabbit’s teeth. These greens should be a daily part of your pet’s diet. You should avoid ice-berg lettuce as these can make rabbits feel unwell.
Fresh herbs
Richard wants rabbit owners to get excited about herbs like parsley, coriander, and dill, as these serve as tasty additions to your rabbit’s diet while promoting healthy teeth. The act of nibbling on herbs encourages natural dental maintenance.
Twigs and branches
These might not seem the obvious choice, but Richard recommends incorporating safe twigs and branches from fruit-bearing trees like apple, willow, or pear into your rabbit’s environment. These act as natural toothbrushes, providing both dental and enrichment benefits.
Rabbit pellets
High-quality rabbit pellets can be part of your rabbit’s diet, but they should not be the primary focus. Choose pellets that are rich in fibre and low in calcium, as an excess of calcium can lead to urinary tract issues.
Fresh vegetables
Fresh vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, and celery can be given in moderation as occasional treats. They offer both dental exercise and nutritional value.
Richard wants rabbit owners in East Renfrewshire to be aware: whilst some calcium is essential for rabbits, an excess can lead to urinary problems and kidney stones. Therefore, it’s important to avoid high-calcium foods like alfalfa hay (sometimes called Lucerne hay), which is suitable for young rabbits but not for adults. Also, remember that fresh, clean water is essential for all aspects of your rabbit’s health.
Maintaining your rabbit’s dental health is not just about providing the right foods; it’s also about ensuring a well-balanced diet. Contact our rabbit vets at Rouken Glen Vets to discuss your rabbit’s nutritional needs and don’t hesitate to contact us on 0141 620 2580 to book a dental exam for them.
How to tell if your rabbits are too cold this winter
Vet Richard Black has prepared the following advice for rabbit owners in East Renfrewshire on how to keep their hopping house mates happy this winter, including tips for keeping them warm and comfortable.
Share this advice with other rabbit owners by sharing our article on your socials. Don’t hesitate to call us on 0141 620 2580 if you would like some individual advice tailored to your rabbit from our team.
Contact our team for personalised winter rabbit advice
7 signs your rabbit is feeling the cold
- Shivering: If you notice your rabbit shivering or trembling, it’s a clear sign they are feeling cold. Shivering is a natural response to cold temperatures as the body tries to generate heat.
- Huddling: Rabbits will huddle together or curl up into a ball to conserve body heat when they’re cold. If you see your rabbit doing this frequently, it’s a sign they are trying to stay warm.
- Cold ears and feet: Richard recommends touching your rabbit’s ears and feet – if they feel cold to the touch, it’s a sign your rabbit is too cold. Cold extremities can indicate poor circulation and discomfort.
- Reduced activity: Cold temperatures can make rabbits lethargic. If your rabbit becomes less active or seems sluggish, it may be because they are cold.
- Seeking warmth: If your rabbit is actively seeking warm spots in their enclosure, such as cuddling next to a heated water bottle or seeking shelter, it’s a clear indication they are trying to stay warm.
- Hunched posture: Rabbits tend to adopt a hunched posture with their body close to the ground when they are feeling cold, advises Richard. This is another way to minimise heat loss.
- Change in eating and drinking habbits: When rabbits are too cold, they may eat and drink less because their body is conserving energy to stay warm. Richard stresses that it’s very important to monitor your rabbit’s food and water consumption; eating less or not at all can quickly become a rabbit emergency and dehydration can also affect their digestion. Call us on 0141 620 2580 if you are concerned.
How to keep your rabbit warm this winter
Richard advises that there are several ways you can help your rabbit cope with the cold weather including:
- Move your rabbit’s hutch or cage inside your home if possible, or perhaps into a garage or shed to avoid the coldest of the weather in East Renfrewshire.
- Ensure their enclosure is well insulated, especially their sleeping area. You can also wrap your rabbit’s home in blankets or a duvet, ensuring it’s remains well-ventilated.
- Extra straw and hay will help to provide warmth and insulation in your rabbit’s enclosure.
- Microwaveable heat pads and well-wrapped hot water bottles can be useful when the temperature really drops but caution should be taken when using these. You may want to place these on the outside of your rabbit’s housing to avoid them chewing through the casing.
- Limit outdoor play during very cold weather and ensure your rabbit has access to sheltered areas during their limited playtime.
- Your rabbit may need more calories during colder months to help them generate heat – our team can advise on this. Contact us on 0141 620 2580 to discuss your rabbit’s winter nutritional needs.
It is crucial to strike a healthy balance between providing warmth but also the necessary ventilation. Regularly monitoring your rabbits for signs of cold and making adjustments to their environment as needed will help to keep your rabbit healthy, happy and snuggly warm this winter.
Share this advice with other rabbit owners on your socials and let’s help bunnies across East Renfrewshire have a happy and healthy winter.