Frequently Asked Questions
See our frequently asked questions for helpful advice!
How can I kitten proof my house?
Kittens are naturally very curious and playful. It’s very important to ensure your home is free of potential threats before they arrive and to maintain a safe environment throughout their lives.
Store items such as household cleaners securely, preferably in a high cabinet that is kept closed at all times.
Electrical wires and cords, such as dangling blind cords, are irresistible to kittens who love to chew and claw them, so it is essential they are inaccessible.
Be aware of any potential dangers outside the home. Double check any plants you may have outside are not toxic to kittens. Common household plants such as onions, leeks and tomato vines can be toxic, and lilies are highly toxic to felines.
Check the floor for small, sharp items that may be swallowed. Re-check often for anything that may be left laying around.
How can I protect my furniture from my cat?
Cats have a natural instinct to scratch. It helps to keep their claws sharp, but it also acts as a territorial marker. Unfortunately, the target of this behaviour is often your furniture.
Attempt to redirect the behaviour to a scratching post instead.
Place the post in a central, prominent position in the house. Choosing the right material, height and solidity of the scratching post is vital. If the behaviour continues, your cat may be anxious and it may benefit from a consultation with the vet to address and manage the behaviour.
Contact us if you need any help with your cat’s behaviour.
How do I puppy proof my home?
Bringing a new puppy home requires preparation around the home to avoid mishaps.
Puppies love to chew on various items, so ensure that all small objects or anything with small removable pieces is kept out of reach. Re-check often for anything that may be left laying around.
Store all poisonous household cleaners safely away in high shelving, checking all electrical cords are inaccessible.
All balconies and high decks should be closed off, as puppies and even small mature dogs can slip through the gaps.
Keep the toilet seat down and check any plants in the backyard for their potential danger if eaten by pup.
What do I feed my puppy? Is it ok to use adult dog food?
Puppy food is specially formulated to help your puppy grow.
Adult dog food does not provide the right vitamins and minerals for your puppy’s optimal growth. It is also very difficult for home-prepared meals to meet the daily nutrition and vitamin levels required.
We choose to stock Royal Canin pet food, as their range provides the most precise and effective nutrition for cats and dogs based on breed, size, age, lifestyle, weight, gender, digestion, their genetic makeup and other specific needs. It’s also more affordable per day than the more well-known pet foods!
Contact us for more information on Royal Canin or puppy nutrition.
When should I desex my dog?
We recommend desexing your dog at 4 to 6months of age.
This procedure is beneficial for both male and female dogs.
In the female it will stop seasons and prevent unwanted pregnancies. In males, this procedure reduces territorial and aggressive behaviour.
Learn more about desexing.
When should I vaccinate my kitten?
Your kitten should be vaccinated at:
• 6-8 weeks
• 10-12 weeks
• 14-16 weeks
Please contact us if you are rearing orphaned kittens as they may need an earlier vaccination.
Learn more about vaccinations.
When should I vaccinate my puppy?
Your puppy will need vaccinations at:
• 6-8 weeks
• 10-12 weeks
• 14-16 weeks
Ideally, puppies should stay with mum and the litter until at least 8 weeks of age. By this stage, it should also have had its first vaccination, including a vet check, and a microchip implanted.
Learn more about vaccinations.
When should I desex my cat?
We recommend desexing/spaying your cat before 4 to 6 months of age, when they start breeding.
Our vets encourage early spaying of all healthy cats from 8 weeks of age.
Learn more about desexing.
Can't find the answer to your question here? Please feel free to call our clinic's and ask for our professional advice.