Dear PDSA Vet,

My cat is staying with a trusted friend while I’m away for a few days. He’s had issues with his bladder suddenly blocking up in the past, if he gets sick while I’m away can my friend take him to my vet for me? Laura

Dear Laura, yes, it’s possible for your friend to take your cat to the vet on your behalf. You’ll need to provide a signed, written letter of consent that gives permission for your friend to agree to treatment for your cat while you’re away. It may also be worth ringing your vet before you go as they may be able to add your friend’s details to the system, which could speed things up if a vet trip is necessary.

Dear PDSA Vet,

My cat, Jack, has not been himself for the last few days. I can’t see anything visibly wrong with him and he’s eating and going to the toilet ok, but he just doesn’t seem his usual bouncy self. Could there be something wrong? Pete

Dear Pete, cats can be very good at hiding when they are in pain - this is a natural instinct for many animals. So by the time you notice something unusual in their behaviour, they can often be quite unwell, or in a lot of pain. I would definitely recommend taking Jack to your vet for a check-up, and would suggest doing this any time you notice a change in his normal behaviour. They will be able to thoroughly examine him and advise if there is something wrong with Jack.

Dear PDSA Vet,

What are some of the characteristics of an ill budgie? Do budgies catch diseases or illnesses regularly? Francesca

Dear Francesca, budgies can get common diseases, just like any other pet. They are also good at hiding the signs of being poorly really well, so when owners first notice something is wrong it can already be serious. The things to look out for include watery droppings, lack of appetite, increased time spent sleeping, drinking more than usual, limping or loss of feathers.

If you notice any of these signs, get your budgie to a vet straight away. Budgies are particularly prone to respiratory infections and need very specific husbandry in order to stay healthy.

Dear PDSA Vet,

I have a four-year-old Jack Russell, Alfie, as well as young kids, who are obviously getting very excited with Christmas coming up. Alfie gets quite stressed with the noise and can sometimes get angry, what can I do to keep him calm? Emma

Dear Emma, first, make sure that your children are safe. If Alfie has a tendency to get angry with them, don’t leave them unsupervised together. In the short term, prevent the situations that upset him. Make sure Alfie has his own quiet space in the house where he can go if things get too much. This is essential over the stressful Christmas period. Longer term, if Alfie is displaying any aggressive behaviour such as growling or snapping, you need to seek professional help.