Can you guess three of the most common “hidden” quality of life problems that we see in elderly dogs? Read on to get confident in spotting these canine comfort complications! 1. Dental disease Untreated dental disease leads to inflammation, infection and pain, which...
Did you know that elderly cats can suffer from cognitive decline (brain health deterioration) too? Read on to learn more about feline brain health and how we can help maintain it in your pet. What causes cognitive decline? Classic cognitive decline occurs due to...
With increasing public awareness about the potential benefits of appropriately prescribed CBD oil products in humans, we’re receiving more questions about their use in dogs. So, roll up - our experienced team is here to weed the facts from the fiction! What is CBD...
Whilst GOLPP is a common condition in some larger-breed dogs, many owners simply haven’t heard of it. Here’s a gulp of information on GOLPP - what it is, the symptoms it causes, and what can be done to help affected pets. What is GOLPP? GOLPP (geriatric onset...
Here at Mira Mar Vets, we are proud to be performing the vaccinating, micro-chipping, de-sexing and general health care of the cats and kittens from Alley Cat Rescue Team. This rescue organisation has already taken in over 150 cats and kittens since it launched in...
One of our favourite things about our veterinary team is the wide variety of medical skills that we get to learn and practice. We think you might be surprised by some of the things we can do behind the scenes, so please pardon us while we toot our own horns about a...
Whilst not common, episodes of anaphylaxis in dogs and cats do happen, and they can be very confronting for pet owners, not to mention serious for the affected pet. We’re here to give you an injection of knowledge about anaphylaxis – why it happens, how to recognise...
In many cases of MMVD (myxomatous mitral valve disease, the most common acquired heart problem seen in dogs), our vets can detect tell-tale abnormal heart sounds, known as heart murmurs, early in the course of the disease. This means that the patient can then be...
Did you know that male dogs have a prostate gland? Because many owners are not aware of the potential for prostate problems in dogs, we’re providing the down-low on common issues “down there”! Where is the prostate gland? The prostate sits within the pelvic canal of...
(This fictional story has been created for educational purposes only and does not depict a real pet or owner.) Around dinner time, Erin heard a miaow at the back door and saw Wendel, her domestic shorthair cat, standing near the glass, waiting to be let in after a day...
If your cat is a bit shy or anxious, try implementing these purr-fectly feline-friendly tips to help gradually build their confidence. Play Did you know that gentle play with your cat is a great way to strengthen your bond with them and bring them out of their shell?...
Rainy weather doesn’t have to limit the fun for you and your dog! Here’s how to exercise your dog even if the weather is gloomy. Indoor exercise options Even in smaller indoor areas, you can still find fun ways to play with your dog. Many pets will love a game of...
(This fictional story is for educational purposes only and does not depict a real pet, owner, or clinic. It highlights the risks of using sticks as a throw toy, and the possible injuries that may result.) Lola the four-year-old German shorthaired pointer LOVED to play...
Did you know that obese cats are almost four times more likely to develop diabetes compared to those in optimal body condition? Here’s more about diabetes in cats; including how to recognise it, how it’s treated, and how to reduce your pet’s risk. Why are obese cats...
Is your dog a little too “thick around the middle”? Unfortunately, being overweight can shorten your pet’s lifespan and make them more likely to suffer from breathing difficulties, joint and spinal problems, and organ issues such as pancreatitis. To help our heavier...
Unfortunately, naturally more anxious pets or those who have previously suffered a severe, painful illness or injury may develop a fear of vet visits. This can manifest as “fight or flight” behaviour, where pets try to escape handling or show defensive aggression to...
When our vets see puppies for vaccinations (usually at 6–8 weeks, 10–12 weeks, and around 16 weeks old), we’re not just giving them a quick jab and sending you on your way. Puppy consultations are an important opportunity to check for common health issues and ensure...
(This fictional story is for educational purposes only and does not depict a real pet or owner. It highlights the risks of buying pets from unregulated sources and the importance of vaccinations in preventing parvovirus.) When Michelle saw an advertisement online...
When asked about the F3 feline vaccination, most owners are aware that it provides protection against two of the common causes of cat flu — feline herpesvirus and calicivirus. But what’s the third component? Here’s the low-down on feline panleucopaenia (FPL), the...
To help prevent our beloved patients from suffering the effects of preventable diseases, we generally recommend regular vaccinations for every cat and dog. However, there are a few medical exceptions where a pet’s vaccines may need to be temporarily postponed or...
You’re cuddled up with your pet on the couch, watching your favourite TV show. All is well until an unpleasant odour wafts up to your nostrils… Sound familiar? If your pet has a reputation for nastier-than-usual flatulence, read on for our top tips on how to tame...
Wallace, the eleven-year-old British Shorthair cat, was a polite and dignified little gentleman. When he was found passing urine in the bathroom sink, his owner, Frances, was startled, to say the least. On closer inspection, Frances noticed that Wallace seemed to be...
As part of your cat’s regular wellness examinations, our vets will assess the rate, sounds, and rhythm of its heart. Atypical heart sounds include murmurs (abnormal “whooshing” sounds) and gallop sounds (extra sounds in addition to the usual “lub dub” rhythm). What...
When we run blood tests on your pet, we have the option of checking their liver values. While knowing about a pet’s liver health is always helpful, these tests can be particularly useful in certain situations. Read on to learn more. Why might we want to check a pet’s...