archwayvets

Veterinary Care Assistant Vacancy

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 14:01:08 GMT

VETERINARY CARE ASSISTANT- CHEPSTOW

Exciting opportunity for an animal lover, keen to build a rewarding career in Veterinary Care.

The role is mainly based at our busy Chepstow surgery, where you will be supporting our Vets and Nurses during procedures, consultations and in-patient care. You will be responsible for maintenance and hygiene of the clinical areas, as well as preparation of equipment, treatment rooms and wards for daily operations.

We are looking for a compassionate and motivated team player who enjoys working in a busy environment.

Experience working with animals is preferable, and a VCA qualification would be ideal, but is not essential as full training will be provided.

Salary will be dependent on experience, and hours are negotiable- part-time or full-time applicants considered.

We look forward to meeting you!

Applications by email to nurses@archwayvet.co.uk

Deadline: 30th January 2025

New Client Registration

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 15:35:28 GMT

Our Books Are Open!

At the end of last year we had to close to new client registrations due to the high demand on our services, but we are pleased to announce that we are now taking on new clients who live within a 10 mile radius of our Chepstow branch, NP16 5DB.

If you do live within a 10 miles radius please complete our online form on our Register Your Pet page via the button below.

If you have contacted us previously about registering and have given us your contact details, we are working through the list to try and contact everyone, but if you have not heard from us please feel free to register via the link.

If you have any queries, please give us a call: Chepstow 01291 625205 , Caldicot 01291 424460, or email us at info@archwayvet.co.uk

Advance Notice of Price Rises Planned for January 2026!

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 14:28:05 GMT

We are currently finalising a new pricing structure, with the exact rates still to be decided but want to give you as much notice as possible so you can plan accordingly. We hope you will appreciate that the changes are necessary due to ongoing increases in our operational costs and we will continue to keep prices as fair as possible. We plan to implement the new prices part way through January 2026 and will update you with the exact details soon.

Thank you for your continued support!

Are you going on holiday with your pet - PLAN AHEAD

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 09:29:22 GMT

1 Months Notice Required for Animal Health Certificates!

A lot of work goes in to processing an Animal Health Certificate so please do not leave it until the last minute. Check out the useful guide on the Pet Travel section of our website or feel free to give our Chepstow branch a call on 01291 625205 .

Out-of-hours emergencies

director@archwayvet.co.uk (Andrea Reynolds) — Fri, 03 Jan 2025 18:25:16 GMT

Sunday Emergencies - From January 2025

*Update: After March 30th we will revert back to using Vetsnow for our out of hours cover on Sundays. Please call our Chepstow number 01291 625205 & you will be automatically redirected.

Our out-hours emergency cover on SUNDAYS from January will be at our Chepstow surgery, between the hours of 8.30am-6.30pm.

VetsNow will provide back up cover throughout the day, and all of the night when needed.

Our phone line is open 24 hours- press to be connected to the emergency vet if prompted.

Fees as follows:

Out of hours fee: Archway Vets- £150.00, VetsNow-£211.75

Consult fee: Archway Vets-£50.00 VetsNow- £90.75

Telephone consult fee £40.00 - will be waived if you decide to come in for treatment.

Brucella Canis - What do we know and why are we concerned?

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 12:22:58 GMT

In summary:

• Brucella canis is a bacterium that can infect dogs and humans.
• It generally causes reproductive failure in dogs and mild symptoms such as non-specific aches and pains in humans.
• The risk of transmission between dogs and humans is low. People most at risk are immuno-compromised, dog breeders, those who import dogs, vets and vet nurses.

• Because we have members of staff who are either immuno-compromised staff and of childbearing age, our practice policy is that imported dogs from Europe are tested for the disease prior to neutering and other surgical procedures, especially those originating from high risk countries in Eastern Europe

• We use a UK government approved laboratory for testing involving two different blood tests.

• It is a difficult disease to diagnose because infected animals may not show any signs of illness and may transmit the disease up to several years after infection.

• Successful elimination of the disease from an infected animal cannot be confirmed because the bacterium can hide inside other cells making it impossible for antibiotics and a patient’s own immune system to destroy it.

• The only way to eliminate the bacterium is by euthanasia of an infected animal.

What symptoms does the disease cause and how is it transmitted ?

Brucella canis is a type of bacteria which can cause reproductive failure including abortion and early deaths in puppies belonging to infected dogs. Less commonly, it can cause lameness, weakness and spinal problems. Humans can contract the disease mainly via contact with fluids from infected animals, especially those relating to birth. It can also be transmitted via urine, blood, faeces, saliva and nasal discharge. Symptoms in humans include mild fever, headaches, myalgia, weight loss and, more rarely, inflammation in heart, joint and brain tissue. The risk of humans becoming infected is considered to be low to very low.

How many cases are there in the UK?

Prior to 2020, there were only 2 confirmed cases in dogs in the UK; both dogs had been imported from Europe. By September 2023 this number had risen to 160 with the majority of infected animals originating in Romania which is most likely a reflection of many rescue dogs being sourced from the country. There have been 2 confirmed human cases: one of these was the owner of an imported pregnant dog which gave birth shortly after arrival in the UK.

Which countries in Europe are most likely to have infected dogs?

Dogs in Eastern European countries are most at risk of contracting the disease, including Romania, Belarus, Ukraine, Russia, Poland, Hungary, Bosnia, Greece, Turkey, Latvia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Cyprus, Montenegro, Serbia, Croatia and Malta.

Do all infected animals show symptoms?
Brucella canis can be difficult to diagnose because infected animals may not show any clinical symptoms and the incubation period can be between 2 and 12 weeks. This means that an infected animal may go undetected if it is tested while still incubating the disease. The only way to
confirm infection is by bacterial culture of infected tissue, e.g. aborted tissue, although suspicion of infection is high with certain blood tests

When should testing be carried out?
There are currently no legal requirements regarding pre-import testing of dogs from Europe. However, in line with various veterinary and governmental organisations, we recommend that all dogs imported from Europe to the UK are tested for Brucella canis prior to import. This should be timed to allow for maximum incubation time (3 months) and carried out via testing at specified reference labs rather than the commonly used SNAP (similar to lateral flow) tests. It is also recommended that pregnant dogs and puppies are not imported, especially from high risk countries.

Which people are most at risk of becoming infected?

People most at risk of becoming infected are immunocompromised, young and old , as well as those in contact with infected tissues e.g. breeders, importers, vets and veterinary nurses. At the present time many specialist veterinary practices or hospitals who have dogs referred to them insist the animals are tested for Brucella canis prior to the first appointment. There are many gaps in our knowledge about the disease including prevalence rates in many countries, the significance of disease transmission via fluids, such as blood and urine, and human infections which generally involve mild symptoms .

If a positive case is identified what do we recommend?
If a dog tests positive for the disease but has no clinical sym ptoms, is not pregnant and there is no history of exposure to an infected animal, it should ideally be isolated from other dogs and retested 4-6 weeks later. Meanwhile, owners should exercise strict hygiene when handling any
canine bodily fluids. Regarding treatment, unfortunately, Brucella canis can hide from disease fighting cells making it impossible to confirm whether a treated animal is negative or not. If treatment of a positive animal is chosen, two antibiotics are usually given for several weeks. Neutering reduces the risk of transmission (especially to humans) as does prevention of close physical contact between infected and uninfected animals. This means that infected animals, even after neutering and treatment with antibiotics, should ideally be isolated from other dogs because they could begin shedding the disease at any time. Consideration for the potential effects of isolation on an animal’s welfare should be borne in mind. The only definitive way t o eliminate the disease is by e uthanasia of an infected animal.

Employee Ownership- What it means to us.

director@archwayvet.co.uk (Andrea Reynolds) — Mon, 15 Jan 2024 14:22:03 GMT

Many thanks to the Welsh Government Economy team, for making the following video:

Employee Ownership- One Year On

director@archwayvet.co.uk (Andrea Reynolds) — Mon, 15 Jan 2024 12:53:50 GMT

So What's New?

It is now one whole year since Archway became owned by an EOT. For those of you who aren't familiar with this- an employee ownership trust (an EOT) is a form of employee trust offering indirect ownership of shares by employees. Archway Veterinary Centre (Trustee) Ltd owns 100% of the shares, and holds that interest for the long term benefit of the company’s employees.

So what has changed? Firstly- we have gained two new directors- Briony Wiggans and Eleanor Gough, who are working alongside Andrea Reynolds (the original owner) to run the company. In a way, this has replicated the old 'partnership' model, with a team of senior vets responsible for the day to day running of the practice.

Secondly- we now have an Employee Council- staff members who are interested in how the business is run and can have their say on the direction it takes. A useful voice for all the employees, who can often see the best way forward- being there 'on the front line'!

We hope that the pride we take in our business is evident for you all to see. The staff you meet are the people who own the business- and that matters. Thank you for coming on this journey with us!

Health Plan Price Increase

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 14:07:50 GMT

Our Health Plan Prices are Going Up!

We have recently reviewed our health plans and had to make the decision to increase our prices.

Any new plans taken out from the 11th December will be at the new prices with price rises for existing health plan customers coming into effect from February 2024. We hope you appreciate that we have not increased the prices of health plans since 2016 and they still represent excellent value for money compared to the pay as you go option. See link below for details.

Please feel free to contact us if you have any queries.

Alabama Rot - What do we know?

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 13:19:38 GMT

In the past few years, local dog owners have become increasingly aware of the deadly disease - CRGV (or Alabama Rot) which has made an appearance in our area. There have been a total of 11 cases in a 20 mile radius around Chepstow - so whilst

the risks are in fact very low; there is a high level of public concern about their beloved pets.

Alabama Rot does show a seasonal pattern with most cases occurring between November and May. So far the research has not found the cause but studies suggest muddy woodlands may present a risk.

CRGV causes inflammation and blood clots in the vessels of the skin and kidneys. This leads to swollen ulcers on the legs, belly and face and can progress within a few days to kidney failure.

What can we do? The current advice to dog owners is to wash off mud after every walk. Be vigilant for any skin lesions and seek Veterinary advice promptly if you have any concerns.

Please don’t stop going out there and enjoying our beautiful countryside - the physical and mental health benefits of exercise for you and your dog can not be overstated!

Veterinary Surgeon Vacancy

Tue, 13 Sep 2022 12:35:54 GMT

Veterinary Surgeon Wanted

Would you like an interesting and varied caseload with opportunities to pursue your own particular interests with an excellent nursing team providing great support.

We are looking to add another Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon to our team:

Full time preferred (40 hours per week) but part-time will be considered.
Working mainly in Chepstow with occasional shifts at our Caldicot branch
Our opening hours are Monday to Friday 8.30am-6.30pm & Saturday 9am-1pm. You will be required to work an occasional Saturday morning shift which is shared amongst our veterinary team
No out of hours
CPD Allowance & paid CPD leave
Paid RCVS Fees
Private Healthcare
Access to profit related bonus after 6 months
Cycle to work scheme
Recent graduates welcome to apply
Salary up to £60,000

If you want to join an independent and Wales' first employee owned veterinary practice and make a real difference to clients and their pets, we would love to hear from you.

To apply or find out more, email your CV to our Clinical Director Andrea Reynolds at director@archwayvet.co.uk

Is Underwater Treadmill Therapy Better Than Swimming?

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 12:09:22 GMT

Enjoying the benefits of the Underwater Treadmill

Our underwater treadmill (UWT) may be state of the art and very high tech but is it necessary? Can I not just swim my dog in the river?

Research shows UWT therapy speeds up muscle strengthening and improves joint range of motion in dogs following surgery, with benefits being gained in as little as 1-2 sessions per week. The benefits of UWT over swimming are outlined below:

Resistance: Have you ever tried running or walking fast through thigh or waist deep water? It is surprisingly difficult! Swimming is a lot easier. During an UWT session, your pet will have all four limbs going through their full range of motion as they would if walking on land. The muscles are, therefore, having to work harder through their whole functional range, which is imperative when building strength and recovering from injury. Other hydrotherapy techniques – such as swimming -do not allow for this functional strengthening.

Controlled Buoyancy: The buoyancy that water provides lessens the forces going through the joints by lessening the weight the animal carries, so it is an excellent choice for dogs with arthritis or painful joints. In an UWT, we can control how much water is added and, therefore, how much buoyancy is experienced. The more painful or functionally impaired the patient, the higher the water level is raised. This makes UWT therapy gentle and safe enough to use on patients as soon as 2 weeks post-operatively.

Gait Training: In the UWT, your pet can walk as it would on land. Our therapist will be in the water with your pet and will assist them in moving correctly, thereby training them to use their limbs efficiently and as normally as possible. This can be key to returning your pet to their full potential.

Controlled Speed and Incline: Your pet’s UWT session will be customized to match their ability and needs. Each session will be individually programmed for the speed and incline and can be changed at any time if the pet is finding it too difficult (or too easy). This makes it an extremely safe tool to use for older, post operative and/or unfit dogs.

Controlled Temperature: The water temperature in the UWT is maintained at about +-30 degrees. The warmer temperature of the water promotes blood circulation, which decreases stiffness and provides pain relief, culminating in a feeling of well-being.

Another advantage of the UWT is that it is often far less intimidating than swimming for pets who are fearful of water. The pet walks onto the stationary treadmill and then the water fills slowly from the bottom. You as the owner are standing in front of your pet while they are in the treadmill and therefore able to reassure them and give them treats to encourage them. We have had many owners who were certain that their pets would not adapt to the water. However, these dogs are now running excitedly into the treadmill on their own, anticipating the treats that come along with the exercise! Don’t knock it until you try it.

So what about swimming? Swimming is also a great tool when used appropriately and directed by a well-trained and registered hydrotherapist. Swimming is, however, a less controlled activity where the velocity of the kicks and leg movements of the patient cannot be micromanaged. The limbs also go through less of their functional range of motion, so swimming is less transferable to the pet’s normal walking pattern on land. Swimming is also primarily a front limb movement for dogs so, unless carefully encouraged, the hind legs do not get as much effective exercise.

Taking your pet to Europe from 1st January 2021

director@archwayvet.co.uk (Andrea Reynolds) — Fri, 08 Jan 2021 10:44:17 GMT

New rules for pet travel to the EU

The rules on movement of pet dogs, cats and ferrets between Great Britain and the EU (including Northern Ireland) have changed now that GB is no longer an EU member state. We can no longer issue EU pet passports in the UK.

An ANIMAL HEALTH CERTIFICATE is now required, issued up to 10 days before you travel.

This AHC is valid for 4 months of onward travel within the EU and can be used to re-enter the UK during this 4 month period. A new AHC is required for each trip to the EU or NI.

To return to the UK your pet requires either a valid AHC or an existing EU passport (issued either in the UK or the EU). A new health certificate can be issued in an EU country if necessary.

TAPEWORM (Echinococcus multilocularis) treatment is required if travelling to a tapeworm-free country (Northern Ireland, Ireland, Malta and Finland), or on the return to the UK from elsewhere in the EU. This must be given by a vet between 1 and 5 days before arrival in the country.

Other requirements for pet travel remain the same:

Microchip
Vaccinated for rabies, and up to date booster vaccinations
Wait at least 21 days after primary rabies vaccination before travel
Travel only through designated Travellers' Point of Entry (TPE), with AHC and proof of microchip and rabies vaccination

Up to date information is available on the government website:

10 Autumn hazards that could make your cat ill

director@archwayvet.co.uk (Andrea Reynolds) — Mon, 09 Nov 2020 11:36:26 GMT

National Pet Month

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 16:44:25 GMT

Promoting Responsible Pet Ownership

April is National Pet Month - when the charity of the same name reminds us of the joys and responsibilities of pet ownership.

Owning a pet has physical and emotional benefits for the owner, but unfortunately not always for the pet! Their health is entirely dependent on the care-giver, and their understanding of the pet’s needs. In practice we see that even well-loved pets are sometimes missing out, and our job is to help identify when your pet may need some changes in their life!

Listed below are National Pet Month’s top tips for Owners- we would love you to come to us for advice on any of these subjects- it’s what we know best!

Top Ten Tips for Responsible Pet Ownership:

1. Think carefully before getting a pet and learn about its special requirements.

2. Ensure your pet is sociable and well trained.

3. Provide a nutritious and well balanced diet.

4. Provide suitable housing and bedding.

5. Clean up after your pet and worm it regularly.

6. Protect against disease.

7. Prevent unwanted litters and neuter your pet when appropriate.

8. Groom your pet regularly.

9. Control your pet and ensure it is properly identified.

10. Take out pet insurance for dogs, cats, rabbits and horses to cover against unexpected veterinary fees and third party liability

OUT OF HOURS- EMERGENCIES

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 09:14:08 GMT

You can also use our telephone number 01291 625205 and press 1 to be transferred to VetsNow

Ordering your Pet's medication

director@archwayvet.co.uk (Andrea Reynolds) — Sat, 18 Apr 2020 13:24:42 GMT

How to get Veterinary Medications during COVID-19 restrictions

We are getting an enormous number of phone calls, asking how to get your pet's medication whilst we are all required to 'Stay At Home'.

We are working with a reduced number of staff, who are working very hard to ensure everyone gets their medication as quickly as possible.

To avoid unnecessary journeys we would suggest your opt for posting your prescription- a small P&P fee applies dependent on the size of the parcel.

Please make sure you allow enough time to receive your new prescription so that you do not run out of medication.

To help us to deal with the volume of requests we would encourage you to use the on-line prescription form on the website.

Thank you for your cooperation- and stay safe!

COVID-19 disease surveillance

Sat, 18 Apr 2020 12:18:45 GMT

SAVSNET- Small Animal Veterinary Surveillance Network @savsnet

Archway Vets are helping to collect information for SAVSNET, to understand the diseases affecting pets at this time. There is a remote possibility that some animals may become infected and show respiratory or gastrointestinal signs if they come into contact with people affected by COVID-19. Based on current evidence, this is unlikely but clearly it would be important to identify such trends if present.

We are asking our clients to allow us to share anonymous data with SAVSNET following any Consultation, including Telephone Consultations. If you do not wish to take part, just tell the Vet that you wish to opt-out.

Further information available by following this link:

www.liverpool.ac.uk/savsnet/taking-part/information-for-owners

COVID-19: Update on human-to-pet transmission

Wed, 01 Apr 2020 12:23:36 GMT

As informed by the RCVS (the veterinary governing body), the main route of transmission of Covid-19 (Coronavirus) is from person to person .

There have only been three reported cases in the transmission of COVID-19 from human to animal.
The first of these cases was a Pomeranian in Hong Kong, who tested positive in late February.
The second was a German Shepherd, testing positive but showing no symptoms.
The latest case is a cat in Belgium who contracted the disease after its owner returned from Northern Italy, showing symptoms of diarrhoea, vomiting and respiratory issues. The virus was detected in the cat’s faeces and vomit. It recovered after 9 days.
Feline Coronavirus (FCoV) is a fairly common disease amongst cats and is NOT related to COVID-19
The risk of human to pet transmission continues to be extremely rare
There still continues to be NO EVIDENCE of pets spreading the disease to their owners.
It is advised to continue to wash your hands as normal after handling your pet.

The Big Flea and Tick Projects

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 13:10:06 GMT

Veterinary Health Centre, Old Forge Court 17a Moor Street, Chepstow NP16 5DB

Over the past few years we have been one of over 1700 Veterinary Practices helping with the University of Bristol’s Big Flea and Tick Projects. Nearly 8000 fleas and ticks have been sent for examination, to better understand the problems these parasites present in the UK today.

The results show that around 1 in 4 cats, and 1 in 7 dogs are infested with fleas. Worryingly, around 11% of these fleas were carrying

the bacterium that causes Cat Scratch Disease. Fleas also carry tapeworms which can then infect the pet and cause harm.

The tick study showed that nearly 1 in 3 dogs and cats had ticks, with strong tick populations in urban as well as rural areas. Ticks carry several diseases including Lyme Disease and Babesia (prevalent in Europe and now present in the south of the UK).

These results remind us that parasite control is tremendously important, and the best place for advice, and reliable products to treat your pet, is your local Vets! The Nurse or Vet will weigh your pet and discuss the best treatment plan.

Come and see us now about our Summer Special Offers!

Why vaccinate?

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 12:13:22 GMT

Veterinary Health Centre, Old Forge Court17a Moor Street, Chepstow NP16 5DB

Vaccinations are the ideal opportunity for your pet to have a wellness check- for many animals this is the only time they see the Vet. Some early signs of pain and disease can easily be missed, even by experienced pet owners, so this annual health check is very important. But what are the vaccinations actually for?

The World Small Animal Veterinary Association recommends ALL dogs and cats should be vaccinated against a list of life-threatening diseases. Here in the UK we have done so well at this, that some of these diseases are rarely seen. Just as in human health however, once a proportion of the population stops vaccinating, these diseases reappear.

This year we have seen a local outbreak of Parvovirus and are reminding all dog owners to check their pet is protected. We offer ‘Titre tests’ to see if an individual has enough protective antibodies or if a ‘Booster’ is required.

So, what are the risks of vaccination? In most individuals-very little!

Some vaccines can trigger mild symptoms or cause a small lump which will disappear with time. Certain pedigrees however have a higher risk of autoimmune diseases, and it is important not to over-vaccinate these dogs. We have been involved for several years with Titre testing The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever breed to make sure they are protected, and to minimise the number of vaccines given.

Come and see us for further advice and a health plan for your pet!

Protect your Bunnies!

Sun, 15 Mar 2020 12:47:27 GMT

17a Moor Street, Chepstow, NP16 5DB 01291625205

For the past few years, the Veterinary Health Centre has been taking part in The SAVSNET Project which collects data from across the UK, to investigate what makes pets ill.

The results are most useful in helping us decide how to keep our furry friends safe. This month we are raising awareness of the risks of Myxomatosis in rabbits, a virus that may now have started killing our wild Hare populations too. SAVSNET data has shown that between August & November, rabbits are eight times more likely to contract Myxomatosis than at other times of the year.

The Myxoma virus is spread by blood-sucking insects such as fleas and mosquitos- so even indoor rabbits can be at risk. Fortunately, we have a very good vaccine to protect against Myxomatosis and prevent fatalities- a once yearly injection is all that is needed.

The vaccine also protects against a second rabbit-killing virus- Viral Haemorrhagic Diarrhoea. For complete protection, we are also advising a second injection against a new strain- VHD2, that is also known to be in this area.

For more information or to book an appointment for vaccination please give us a call .

Keep your bunnies safe!

What is hydrotherapy?

Sun, 01 Mar 2020 12:55:44 GMT

Veterinary Health Centre, Old Forge Court 17a Moor Street, Chepstow NP16 5DB

Hydrotherapy is a form of physiotherapy carried out in water. It strengthens muscles, joints, ligaments and tendons without feeling any of the shocks they would feel on land. The resistance of the water makes the muscles work harder and therefore become stronger.

We use an underwater treadmill – so your dog (or cat!) will be walking through water rather than swimming.

Would my pet benefit from hydrotherapy?

rehabilitation after spinal or orthopaedic surgery, but is also useful for joint conditions such as hip and elbow dysplasia. We also recommend hydrotherapy for old and stiff dogs, and as an aid to weight loss when diet and land- based exercise are failing to show results.

What will happen in the sessions?

The initial one hour consultation will assess the pets mobility and strength, and set goals for treatment. The first step is getting your pet used to the water – we take our time in order to keep them as calm as possible. Most dogs soon get the hang

of it, and love coming to their sessions!

Our Hydrotherapists, Joanna and Clare are happy to talk with you, if you would like to find out more – contact us here .

Taking Care of your elderly Feline Friends

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 13:15:47 GMT

Old Forge Court, 17a Moor Street, Chepstow 01291 625205 www.archwayvet.co.uk

It is estimated that 24% of adults in the UK own a cat- that’s a whopping 11 million pet cats sharing our homes with us. Cats are considered as seniors at 11 years old, and with the right health care can often make it into their 20’s.

As with people however, old age does not come alone, and our

feline friends are notoriously secretive about their illnesses. It is

our responsibility to look out for subtle changes which may indicate a problem, and consider bringing in for wellness checks twice a year instead of just at annual vaccination time.

Around 90% of elderly cats are shown to have arthritis when x-rayed, but how can we notice if they are in pain? It is rare for a cat to cry out in pain, and sleeping more can often be misinterpreted as ‘just old age’. Look for changes in agility-jumping, stretching and grooming- the coat condition can be a give away if the cat can no longer bend enough to wash itself. Decreased grooming can also occur due to dental pain - if you cannot easily check the mouth yourself, if is worth getting the Vet’s opinion. We frequently find painful holes in teeth in cats that have shown no obvious problems eating- so don’t be fooled by a good appetite!

There are multiple diseases of older cats in which clues can be found in their urine. It is easy to collect a sample from a litter tray using special non-absorbent litter, and can be a useful (and cheap) screening test. More hands-on is the recommendation for routine blood pressure in all cats over 7 years old. Cats, like us can be prone to high blood pressure and it’s associated risks of sudden blindness and strokes- prevention is better than cure!

I hope this article encourages you to look closely at your furry feline friends and take a minute to consider their health - they depend on YOU!