Dear PDSA Vet

I’ve heard that daffodils are poisonous to dogs. Is that true? Sharron.

Dear Sharron,

You’re right; daffodils can be harmful to pets, including dogs. Smaller dogs are more at risk because they don’t need to eat as much, compared to a big dog, to be poisoned. The bulbs are particularly poisonous, and eating just a small amount can be toxic. Even drinking water from a vase of daffodils can cause both cats and dogs to become sick so it’s important to keep them well away from daffodils. Also, prevent them from entering flower beds where they might be able to dig up the bulbs. Most cases of poisoning happen in spring when daffodils bloom, or in the autumn when the bulbs are planted. If you think your pet has eaten any part of a daffodil, or you notice signs of poisoning such as vomiting, diarrhoea, lack of appetite or tremors, call your vet for help immediately.

Dear PDSA Vet

I would like to vaccinate my new kitten as soon as I can so that he can socialise with more animals. When is the earliest that cats can start vaccinations? Will

Dear Will,

It’s great that you’re getting your kitten vaccinated, as vaccines protect cats against serious diseases such as cat flu, feline chlamydia, feline infectious enteritis and feline leukaemia virus. The first vaccine in a primary course can usually be given from nine weeks of age, with the second given around three to four weeks later. Speak to your vet to confirm the timings as different vaccines may vary slightly. Booster vaccinations are needed because the body’s immune response gradually fades over time. They are usually required every year, depending on the vaccine. For more information visit www.pdsa.org.uk/vaccinations. Cats tend to be solitary, so while it’s a great idea to introduce your kitten to other animals in a safe way so he isn’t as wary of them later in life, he will prefer to live on his own without other cats.

Dear PDSA Vet

I have a nine-month-old guinea pig called Dory. She squeals when I pick her up and I’m not sure why. Is this normal? Angela

Dear Angela,

Get a check-up from the vet to make sure her new behaviour isn’t due to a medical condition. If the vet gives the all-clear, it could be that she’s simply unhappy being handled, so you’ll need to get her used to it. Start by feeding Dory pieces of her favourite food while you sit near her. After a few days, offer Dory food from your hand. Once she’s reliably taking this, start stroking her gently just before you give her the treat. By gradually building up in this way, you should eventually be able to pick her up. When you lift her, use a “scooping” motion rather than coming down from above. Always approach your guinea pig quietly and gently and when lifting her always hold her over a flat surface, as even a small fall can cause serious injury.

Dear PDSA Vet

My rabbit, Florence, keeps shaking her head and scrabbling at her ears with her paws. Could she have an infection? Alison

Dear Alison,

This sounds uncomfortable for your rabbit so it’s important to get her checked as soon as possible. You need to take Florence to your vet, who’ll be able to examine her fully. One possible cause of these signs is an ear infection. Another is ear mites. Both problems can cause intense irritation and are likely to require treatment. When rabbits feel unwell or sore, their digestion can slow down, causing a condition called gut stasis which can be fatal, so getting treatment quickly is really important to make sure Florence stays well. It might be a good idea to bring Florence’s rabbit companion with her to the vet, as otherwise she’ll pick up lots of strange smells and this could make her friend a bit wary of her. Then, if she needs to be admitted for any treatment she’ll have her companion close by to help her feel better.

n PDSA is the UK’s leading vet charity. We’re on a mission to improve pet wellbeing through prevention, education and treatment. Support from players of People’s Postcode Lottery helps us reach even more pet owners with vital advice and information. www.pdsa.org.uk