FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

CATS     |     DOGS    |     VACCINATIONS     |     OTHER PETS    |   GENERAL

Q: How often should I take my cat to the vet?
A: It’s recommended to take your cat for a check-up at least once a year. Kittens and senior cats may need more frequent visits.

Q: What is the best way to prevent my cat from getting fleas?
A: Regular use of flea prevention treatments, like topical solutions or collars, can keep your cat flea-free. Consult us for the best option for your cat.

Q: Should I spay or neuter my cat?
A: Yes, spaying or neutering helps prevent unwanted litters and can reduce certain health risks and behaviours.

Q: Why does my cat vomit hairballs?
A: Hairballs are common in cats due to grooming. Regular brushing can reduce hairballs. If vomiting is frequent, consult us.

Q: How can I help my cat maintain a healthy weight?
A: Provide a balanced diet and ensure your cat gets regular exercise. Monitor portion sizes and avoid overfeeding.

Q: What should I do if my cat has bad breath?
A: Bad breath can be a sign of dental issues. Regular dental check-ups and proper oral care at home are important.

Q: Can cats get diabetes?
A: Yes, cats can develop diabetes, especially if they are overweight. Regular vet visits can help catch it early.

Q: How do I know if my cat is stressed?
A: Signs of stress in cats include hiding, aggression, excessive grooming, or changes in eating habits. If you notice these, consult us.

Q: What vaccines does my cat need?
A: Core vaccines for cats include those for rabies, feline distemper, and feline herpesvirus. We can provide a tailored vaccination plan for your cat.

Q: Is it okay to let my cat go outside?
A: Outdoor cats face risks like traffic, predators, and diseases. If you allow your cat outside, consider supervised outings or a secure enclosure.

Q: How often should I take my dog to the vet?
A: Dogs should visit the vet at least once a year for a check-up. Puppies and senior dogs may need more frequent visits.

Q: What is the best way to prevent my dog from getting fleas and ticks?
A: Regular flea and tick prevention treatments, such as topical solutions, oral medications, or collars, can keep your dog protected.

Q: Should I spay or neuter my dog?
A: Yes, spaying or neutering your dog can prevent unwanted litters and reduce certain health risks and behaviours.

Q: How much exercise does my dog need?
A: Most dogs need at least 30 minutes to 2 hours of exercise daily, depending on their breed, age, and health. Regular walks and playtime are great for keeping them fit.

Q: What should I do if my dog has bad breath?
A: Bad breath can be a sign of dental issues. Regular dental check-ups and at-home care, like brushing their teeth, are important.

Q: Can dogs get diabetes?
A: Yes, dogs can develop diabetes, especially if they are overweight. Regular vet visits can help with early detection and management.

Q: How can I help my dog maintain a healthy weight?
A: Provide a balanced diet, monitor portion sizes, and ensure your dog gets regular exercise. Avoid feeding table scraps or too many treats.

Q: What vaccines does my dog need?
A: Core vaccines for dogs include those for rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and adenovirus. We can provide a vaccination plan tailored to your dog.

Q: How do I know if my dog is stressed?
A: Signs of stress in dogs include panting, pacing, whining, or changes in behaviour. If you notice these, consult us for advice.

Q: How do I protect my dog’s paws in hot weather?
A: Avoid walking your dog on hot pavement, use dog boots, and try to walk during cooler parts of the day.

Q: Why are vaccinations important for my pet?
A: Vaccinations protect your pet from serious diseases and help prevent the spread of these diseases to other animals and humans.

Q: How often does my pet need vaccinations?
A: The frequency depends on the vaccine and your pet’s age and health. We’ll provide a vaccination schedule tailored to your pet’s needs.

Q: Can vaccinations make my pet sick?
A: Most pets have mild reactions like soreness at the injection site. Serious side effects are rare but should be reported to us immediately.

Q: What vaccines are required by law?
A: In many areas, rabies vaccination is legally required for dogs and sometimes cats. Check with us for local requirements.

Q: Are there any risks associated with vaccinating my pet?
A: Vaccinations are generally safe. However, like any medical procedure, there are small risks, which we can discuss with you.

Q: Can indoor pets skip vaccinations?
A: Even indoor pets need vaccinations, as they can still be exposed to diseases. Discuss your pet’s lifestyle with us to determine the necessary vaccines.

Q: What is a core vaccine?
A: Core vaccines are those recommended for all pets due to the severity and widespread nature of the diseases they protect against.

Q: What is a non-core vaccine?
A: Non-core vaccines are recommended based on your pet’s specific risk factors, like lifestyle or location. We’ll help you decide if your pet needs them.

Q: How do vaccines work?
A: Vaccines stimulate your pet’s immune system to recognize and fight specific diseases, providing protection against future infections.

Q: Can puppies and kittens be vaccinated too early?
A: Puppies and kittens should begin vaccinations at about 6-8 weeks of age, following a schedule that we’ll set for them.

Q: What pets other than cats and dogs do you treat?
A: We treat a variety of pets, including rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, birds, and reptiles. Contact us for more specific information about your pet.

Q: How often should I bring my small pet to the vet?
A: Small pets like rabbits and guinea pigs should have annual check-ups, but more frequent visits may be needed for young, elderly, or sick pets.

Q: What is the best diet for my rabbit?
A: Rabbits need a diet high in hay, fresh vegetables, and a small amount of pellets. Avoid sugary treats and make sure they have constant access to fresh water.

Q: Can birds get sick from household items?
A: Yes, birds are sensitive to fumes from non-stick cookware, certain cleaners, and tobacco smoke. Keep them away from these hazards.

Q: How can I keep my reptile healthy?
A: Proper habitat setup, including correct temperature, humidity, and UV lighting, is essential for reptile health. Regular vet check-ups are also important.

Q: Do small pets need vaccinations?
A: Some small pets, like ferrets, may require vaccinations. We can advise you based on the species of your pet.

Q: What should I do if my bird’s feathers are falling out?
A: Feather loss can be a sign of stress, illness, or dietary issues. Bring your bird in for a check-up to determine the cause.

Q: How do I know if my small pet is sick?
A: Signs of illness in small pets include changes in appetite, behaviour, or grooming. If you notice these, bring your pet in for an evaluation.

Q: Can I keep different species of small pets together?
A: It’s usually best to house different species separately, as their care needs and behaviours can vary greatly. Ask us for advice on specific cases.

Q: How do I prevent my small pet from getting bored?
A: Provide plenty of enrichment, such as toys, hiding places, and interaction. Regularly rotate toys to keep things interesting.

Q: What are your clinic’s hours?
A: We are open:

MON – FRI : 07:30 – 18:30
SATURDAYS : 08:00 – 14:00
SUNDAYS : CLOSED

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS : 08:00 – 12:00

After Hours Tel : 012 492 9865

Q: Do you offer emergency services?
A: Yes, we offer emergency care during our regular hours. For after-hours emergencies, contact our recommended emergency clinic.

Q: How do I make an appointment?
A: You can make an appointment by calling us or booking online through our website.

Q: What types of payment do you accept?
A: We accept cash, credit cards, and debit cards. We also accept certain pet insurance plans. Contact us for more details.

Q: How can I get a copy of my pet’s medical records?
A: You can request a copy of your pet’s medical records by contacting our reception team. We’ll be happy to provide them for you.

Q: Do you offer boarding or grooming services?
A: While we focus on veterinary care, we can recommend trusted local boarding and grooming services. Please ask us for recommendations.

Q: What should I do if my pet is acting strangely?
A: If your pet’s behaviour changes suddenly, it could indicate a health issue. Contact us to schedule an appointment for a check-up.

Q: How do I know if my pet is overweight?
A: If you can’t feel your pet’s ribs easily or they have a noticeable belly, they may be overweight. We can assess their weight and recommend a diet plan.

Q: Can I bring my pet in just for a nail trim or ear cleaning?
A: Yes, we offer nail trimming, ear cleaning, and other routine care services. Call us to schedule a quick visit.