FREE PLEASE TAKE A COPY
AUTUMN 2020
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In this issue
> A guide to... Understanding dementia in pets > Top tips to maintain healthy kidney function in pets > Surviving autumn with pets > Q&A with Carolyn Menteith, Trainer and Bahaviourist at Agria Pet Insurance
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EDITOR’S COMMENT I’m delighted to present the Autumn 2020 edition of Companion Life Magazine. Companion Life is a FREE magazine, which aims to offer pet owners information, news and advice. In this issue we highlight canine dementia and offer advice to pet owners for autumn with pets. As well as the latest news, we also share tips on maintaining healthy kidney function in pets. Feel free to get in touch with any features, news, pet products or even pictures of your own pets. Laura Evans Editor
Companion Life Companion Life is a Free Magazine providing news, information, tips and advice for pet owners across the UK. Circulation: 30,000 copies of Companion Life are distributed to veterinary practices across the UK. Contact details: Companion Life, Barn 3, Somerford Business Court, Holmes Chapel Road, Congleton, Cheshire. CW12 4SN www.companionlife.co.uk
NEWS
PitPat and Dogs Trust collaborate to help the UK’s dogs The two-year partnership will see a minimum of £50,000 invested into
supporting the wellbeing of dogs in the
UK, with PitPat making a £5 donation to Dogs Trust for every sale of its dog
activity monitor to Dogs Trust supporters. Andrew Nowell, PitPat CEO and co-founder said: “We are passionate about keeping dogs happy and healthy and are thrilled PitPat and Dogs Trust have come together to help educate the nation’s dog lovers on what their canine companions need to lead a healthy, fun and active lifestyle.
to partner with the Dogs Trust to help
The partnership will promote the importance of regular exercise and interaction with our dogs to help owners establish healthier routines. By using a PitPat dog activity monitor and app, owners can get the full picture of their dog’s day – such as how much distance they covered on their walk, how much time they spent playing and what they were up to when they were home alone.
active in the way that’s right for them and
and inspire the nation’s dog owners.
Every dog is different, and their activity needs will change throughout their life, so a PitPat helps you to keep your dog gives owners peace of mind.”
Dogs Trust supporters should use the
code DOGSTRUST25 at check out to get 25% off a dog activity monitor and qualify for the £5 donation.
https://shop.pitpat.com/pitpat-dogactivity-monitor/
Teddy Maximus launches Strawberry Thief dog accessories collection birds stealing fruit which gives it this
Editor: Laura Evans.
distinctive name – it will be sure to turn heads and paws.
Advertising/artwork: advertising@companionlife.co.uk
Making its debut as part of the Strawberry Thief collection is the luxury dog carrier with adjustable straps, cosy fleece walls and a waterproof outer base. The new carrier is the ultimate style and is designed to carry your dog in comfort, doubling as a handy travel bag.
Editorial: editor@companionlife.co.uk
Companion Life is part of ‘WITH Marketing Ltd’, The contents within Companion Life is fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Companion Life. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Companion Life, its distributors and WITH Marketing Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.
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Luxury dog accessories brand Teddy
Maximus announce the launch of their new Strawberry Thief Collection.
The sweet and stylish new collection features a print created by William Morris in 1883 incorporating animals and flowers. The beautiful botanical Liberty print depicts
The newly designed Teddy Maximus Bow Ties and Neckerchiefs add a touch of style. You can also use the personalisation service to get your dog’s name added to any neckerchief. The Collection is now available from www.teddymaximus.com with prices starting from £15.95.
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New Applaws Taste Toppers: On a mission to ‘Add More Happy’ is designed to simply be served on top of dry dog food and make mealtimes more interesting for dogs and their owners. Applaws Taste Toppers recipes are 100% natural with no additive, and high-quality ingredients. To liven up dry dog food, the toppers offer different tastes and textures including: Apple, Courgette, Pumpkin, White Bean, lentil and Sweet Potato. Applaws Natural Pet Food is thrilled to announce the global product launch of Applaws Taste Toppers.
The 100% natural complimentary pet food
They are available at Pets at Home in a selection of tasty textures including: Bone Broths, Broths, Fillets, Jellies, Stews and Gravies, with prices starting from £1.29.
Nutravet launches Nutramarin+ – advanced liver support for pets Nutravet has launched Nutramarin+ into its veterinary exclusive range of animal health products. Launched in addition to the hugely successful Nutramarin, Nutramarin+ provides an advanced high strength double enteric coated sprinkle capsule.
With the majority of SAMe products being tablets, these unique sprinkle capsules allow for easier administration, either open the capsules and sprinkle the contents into an animal’s food or administer the capsule whole.
The capsules are also double enteric coated to allow their transit through the stomach to the small intestine before being released where they can be absorbed to have the
most positive effect. Matthew Shaw, Managing Director or Nutravet said: “Nutramarin has received excellent feedback since its launch in March (2020). Following feedback from pet owners we have launched Nutramarin+ which are easy to administer sprinkle capsules. Nutramarin+ gives pet owners a veterinary strength product that allows them to support their pet’s liver health in an easier to administer form.” Nutramarin+ is available to buy over the counter at any Nutravet authorised veterinary practices. To find your local stockist visit www.nutravet.co.uk.
Sickly seal pups given DIY saunas using wallpaper stripper Inventive staff at RSPCA East Winch Wildlife Centre have created DIY saunas for sickly seals using a modified wallpaper stripper.
The centre is currently caring for a staggering 49 common seal pups, who will need weeks, if not months of specialist care to help them get strong enough to return back to the wild. Many of the pups have respiratory problems and staff at the centre have found that their
make-shift saunas offer a huge amount of relief to the pup’s breathing when used.
As well as the sauna respite the pups who have been admitted to the centre since the start of June, are all receiving of specialist intensive care from dedicated staff at the centre. The RSPCA warns that it’s important that the public never approach seals and keep any dogs well away and, on a lead, as these are wild animals and can have a nasty bite.
NEWS SNIPPETS Kavee create free resources for guinea pig owners. Guinea pig supplies brand, Kavee has created free resources to equip guinea pig owners with the best knowledge. The printable sheets are illustrated with watercolour and packed with information. The care sheets also include fillable templates to keep track of your own guinea pigs’ information. Download the free 25-page care sheet at www.kaveecage.co.uk Research shows positive impact of dogs on owners’ mental health during lockdown. New data shows that dogs are an important source of emotional support during the pandemic and help owners’ cope mentally. The research from The Kennel Club shows many owners are comforted and calmed by their dog during the time of crisis, with 91% saying their dog had a positive impact on their mental health. Two in five agreed it was because they kept them active and 32% said it was because having a dog provided a routine. It also revealed that 61% said their dog was a ‘lifeline in lockdown’ and 29% agreed spending more time with their dog was the best thing about lockdown. Say ‘I love you’ with Barking Heads treats this Christmas Barking Heads help pet owners to show their furry best friends just how much they care this Christmas. For the dog that loves a festive bake, the Baked Treats are an indulgent, bitesize snack guaranteed to distract from your own mince pies. If your dog has made it to Santa Paws’ nice list this year, Barking Heads Meaty Treats make the perfect stocking filler. Made with 100% natural ingredients and added minerals, they’re also great for training your pup too. They come in a range of tasty flavours, Apple Snaffle, Top Banana, Chicken Champs, Beefy Bites and Fish Fancies. All priced at £2.99. www.barkingheads.co.uk
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ARTICLE
A guide to...
UNDERSTANDING DEMENTIA IN PETS We all hope that our pets will have a long and healthy life. Unfortunately, like humans, some dogs and cats can experience a decline in cognitive function as they age.
Common signs of dementia in pets Dementia in pets is also known as Cognitive Dysfunction, a cognitive disorder in dogs associated with effects similar to those of Alzheimer’s in humans. Just like their owners, as pets age, they can have senile moments, with changes in behaviour, memory, learning and comprehension. The causes of dementia in pets are unknown, however the fact that the brain function is affected by physical and chemical changes that occur along with the aging process. But agerelated cognitive decline is not the only condition that causes dementia in pets.
Signs of dementia in pets can include: Confusion or disorientation Confused behaviour in the house and wandering around aimlessly. Pets may regularly get lost on walks or perhaps go to the wrong side when opening doors. They may also lose the ability to recognise people they are frequently in contact with, or other pets. Reduced social interaction Pets may hide away more, especially if there are new people in the home. There may be reduced greeting behaviour, and this may just be perceived by pet owners as their pets being tired or less interested or excited. There may also be increased vocalisation, or rarely, aggression towards particular situations.
Loss of prior house training One of the most noticeable signs for pet owners and is distressing for all involved. Toilet training is a key, learned behaviour, and so can be one of the first behaviours lost with cognitive dysfunction. Disturbance in sleep There is an increase in total sleep, but this can often be broken in shorter periods and often pets can be awake at night, when previously they did not disturb the pet owner. Decreased activity Dogs and cats can be less keen to exercise and less excited by toys and other previously rewarding events. Owners will sometimes describe their pets as depressed.
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Tips to support your pet’s brain health Dementia in pets cannot be cured, but there are some positive things you can do to help reduce some of the symptoms and slow the progression of the illness. These include: Exercise Keeping your pet’s body and mind active is important. Regular exercise, which is appropriate for your pet’s age and physical condition can help to keep their mind and body healthy. Monitor their weight Keep your pet a healthy size. Overweight dogs and cats require more support for cognitive function. A proper diet will help your pet to have an optimal life. Make sure that the food you are giving your pet contains the essential vitamins and nutrients that they need as they age.
Retrain your dog It’s true – you can teach an old dog new tricks! This can be done using the same techniques as you would with a puppy. Training helps to keep your pet’s brain active. Be creative to keep your pet occupied like using puzzle games. For more problematic behaviour issues, you should consult your vet. Positive reinforcement Behaviour training should include treats and praise. Do not punish your pet for bad behaviour, they don’t know that they have to done something until they are told. Socialise your pet Allow your dog to socialise with other pets and people. Take your dog to socialisation classes to learn how to behave around people and other dogs.
Omega 3s Omega 3s have been shown to aid learning abilities in young puppies. Other studies linked low blood Omega-3 with dog aggression, which indicates beneficial applications of Omega-3s throughout your pet’s life to help maintain brain health. Natural supplements Supplementing your pet’s diet could help maintain health cognitive function. There are a number of products on the market that can help including Vetpro and Senior Aid, whilst Vets will often recommend Nutramind which provides high strength nutritional support and includes the key nutrients for supporting cognitive function in ageing pets. If you are worried about your pet’s health or behavioural changes you should speak to your vet who will be able to offer the best advice dependant on their age and breed.
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ADVICE
TOP TIPS to maintain healthy kidney function in pets Kidneys carry out many important tasks in your pet’s body. They help to balance certain substances in the blood and filter out the body’s waste as urine. Kidneys maintain normal concentrations of salt and water in the body as well as helping to control blood pressure, aid in calcium metabolism and sustain phosphorus levels. Kidney function in pets is known to decline with age, and this can be associated with a decrease in renal Omega-3s and an increase in inflammation. Kidney problems in pets are common but feeding a good quality diet and providing a constant supply of fresh clean water will help to aid their kidney health. Typical signs of kidney problems can include, a frequent urination, increased drinking to replace fluids, tiredness and lethargy, retching or going off food. Here are some tips to help maintain your pet’s kidney health: Water intake
Water is essential for all animals but especially important for healthy kidney function. Make sure your pet has access to fresh and clean water on a regular basis.
Protein management
Too high a protein content can lead to an accumulation of toxic products within the blood. However, lowering the protein levels too far can lead to problems. The best diets will contain proteins of a high biological value, ensuring there are no deficiencies in essential amino acids.
Reduce sodium content
High sodium levels can lead to hypertension, however care must be taken as reducing the
levels too far can be a contributing factor in metabolic acidosis and it can affect palatability.
Good fibre levels
Fibre is important to help gastrointestinal motility.
Reduce stress
Keep your pet calm where possible as when a pet is stressed, they may eat or drink less. Reduced water intake is detrimental to the kidneys.
Clean teeth
Periodontal disease has been shown to increase a dog’s risk of developing renal failure. Regular teeth brushing can help to prevent this.
Reduce toxins
Poisons is a leading problem for renal health. Understanding what substances and foods are
unsafe for your pet can keep them safe from poisoning. For example, chocolate, grapes and raisins or antifreeze and some cleaning products.
pet’s health as your vet is best placed to offer the best advice for your pet’s age and breed. Be sure to always take on your vet’s advice.
Omega 3s
Natural supplements
A diet high in Omega 3 fatty acids can help. High purity Omega 3s from fish oil can have beneficial effects on supporting the animal’s natural systems that control inflammation and supporting a better quality of life.
Reduce phosphate content
Reducing the phosphate content in the diet can help in reducing damage to kidneys and has been linked to extending life, especially in cats.
Regular monitoring
Regular vet visits are important to monitor your
Consider using natural supplements to help support your pet’s kidney health. Supplements that contain key ingredients such as Omega 3, Calcium and Chitosan can aid renal function, bind toxins and support your pet’s quality of life. If you are worried about your pet’s health or anything above, consult your vet who is best placed to offer advice dependent on their age and breed.
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PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT
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If you would like your product featured in a future edition please get in touch editor@companionlife.co.uk
In this edition, we highlight some pet products that we think our readers will love...
Proper Goose - pet inspired gifts
Gus & Bella - Cat subscription box
Prices from £22.00
Prices from £22.90
Blend traditional past times with your favourite companion with personalised playing cards adorned with your favourite pet from family-run business Proper Goose, RRP £22 or why not choose a wooden jigsaw made from maple veneer, personalised with your choice of animal photo and wording, RRP £24. Each game comes in a matching tin. All delivery is free to the UK, with no minimum spend. For more pet-inspired gifts see www.propergoose.com.
With adorable monthly themes and 7+ products for both cats and their humans to enjoy together, it’s the most exciting treat each month. Discover and save on innovative cat toys, pioneering health products, delicious natural cat treats, plus on-trend gifts for cat lovers. Monthly subscription boxes are £29.90 or £31.90 bi-monthly. Or you can purchase a one-off Gift box for £32.95, all prices include delivery. www.gusandbella.com
Nutracalm reduces stress fast
Prices from £11.49 for a box of 15 sprinkle capsules Reducing stress and keeping your pet calm is vital for them to lead a happy and healthy life. Nutracalm has a unique veterinary strength formula that calms anxious pets and helps to reduce unwanted and unruly behaviour, quickly. Nutracalm is fast acting and works within two hours of administration without any sedative effect. It is safe for both long and short-term use and contains the key ingredients for naturally supporting stress and anxiety in dogs and cats in an easy to administer sprinkle capsule. www.nutravet.co.uk/ nutracalm
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ARTICLE
Surviving Autumn with pets
With summer behind us and the dark nights starting to creep in, autumn brings with it many challenges for pets and their owners. As well as cooler weather, autumn also sees the start of the fireworks season and Halloween, which can both prove to be stressful for many pets. It’s important to be aware of the seasonal dangers to your pets so you can all enjoy the fun outdoors and scenery that autumn creates.
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Pets love nothing more than time outside, exploring new smells and sights in the garden or on walks, however with this can come a number of challenges and hazards to look out for. We highlight some of the hazards that pet owners should be aware of during this time of year. Seeds and conkers With seeds and leaves dropping during autumn months, some are poisonous to pets and can cause serious illness. Yew trees are poisonous and eating just a small amount can be serious. The bark, leaves, flowers and conkers of Horse Chestnut Trees are also poisonous to pets. Conkers can also become a choking hazard or cause blockages. Acorns are also a common sight during autumn. They can be found on the ground throughout autumn months. Keep an eye on dogs while on walk as if swallowed by pets they can cause blockages. Dark nights As the darker nights approach, if you are walking your dog early in the morning or late at night be sure to wear reflective clothing. Stick to well know dog walking routes. You could also use a reflective collar and coat for your dog, just in case they get lost. Ensure that your dog’s microchip details are up-to-date, to ensure they can be reunited with you quickly if they get lost. They should also wear an identity tag, Exercise Despite the cooler wet weather, it is still important to keep up with your pet’s exercise routine. This will help to prevent any weight gain going into cooler months, as well as keeping their joints mobile and
avoid stiffness. As the weather changes, you could reduce the length of their walks. If your pet is exercising less, be sure to adjust their diet accordingly, speak to your vet if you are unsure how much they should exercise for their age and breed. Fleas and ticks As we start to turn the central heating on in our homes, this makes a more comfortable environment for pesky fleas. Keeping up with your pet’s flea treatment will help to prevent any unwanted house guests at this time of year. Ticks are also still prominent in autumn, so be sure to check your pets regularly for ticks, especially after dog walks. Fleas can cause irritation for pets, with some having flea allergies, which can cause discomfort for your pet and affect their skin if not treated properly. Pets with flea allergies can be allergic to the saliva of the flea and become itchy after being bitten. When treating your pet for fleas, remember to also treat your home, where your pet sleeps or spends a lot of time. Reduce stress With Halloween and the start of fireworks season many pets become anxious from the loud bangs, trick or treaters and scary costumes seen around this time. Stick to routines as much as possible to help reduce stress. Don’t force your pet to wear a funny costumer for Halloween if
they don’t want to - no matter how cute they may look. Ask your vet about natural supplements like Nutracalm to help reduce stress Halloween treats Around Halloween time, there can be lots of chocolate and sweet treats around the home, ready for trick or treaters or just for the family to enjoy. Chocolate and some sweets contain toxic substances which can make your pet poorly and even a small amount could cause serious health issues. Be sure to keep chocolate and any sweet treats away from your pet to prevent them developing an upset tummy. To prevent them begging for your Halloween treats, keep some of your pet’s favourite treats to hand so they don’t feel left out and stop you from being tempted to give them some of yours. Pumpkins These are commonly used as decorations throughout autumn and Halloween. Although they are not poisonous, if consumed in large quantities, they could lead to your pet having a sensitive tummy. If you use candles in your pumpkins, make sure these are out of reach from your pet and can’t be knocked over. Fireworks Autumn marks the start of the fireworks season. It can last from October to New Year and make this time of year very stressful for some pets and their owners.
These can be extremely stressful for some pets who are scared to the loud bangs. Preparing in advance could help to reduce stress for your pet during the fireworks. Make your pet a den to retreat to if needed and close curtains and play music to help block out the noise. Be sure to walk your dog earlier in the day before the fireworks start and keep all pets indoors after dark. Ask your vet about natural calming supplements such as Nutracalm, which help to naturally calm anxious pets. Cold and wet weather If your pet spends a lot of time outside, be sure to provide a shelter for them for when the weather gets colder or if it rains. Make sure they have lots of blankets to keep them warm and comfy. As the weather gets colder bring smaller pets indoors.
If you think your pet may have eaten or been affected by any of the above, be sure to contact your vet right away, as they will be able to offer the best advice with regards to your pet’s health.
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Q&A
Q&A
With Carolyn Menteith
Trainer and Behaviourist at Agria Pet Insurance At this time of year, pet owners may notice behaviour changes in their pets due to a number of reasons such as bonfire night. Here Trainer and Behaviourist at Agria Pet Insurance, Carolyn Menteith, shares insight into how to support anxious pets following lockdown and the type of behaviour changes pet owners may notice.
How will lockdown have affected our pets? It’s easy to think of lockdown as being a negative thing for the animals that share our lives - but it is a great opportunity to re-look at our relationship with them and consider where we can make changes to keep them healthier and happier in the future. First ask yourself honestly is your dog or cat happier in lockdown? In the case of dogs, the answer is often yes. In many cases, they have been getting more company, more exercise and more contact with their owner - all the things dogs thrive on. Once you recognise this - and become aware of the effect your pre lockdown work or life pattern has been having on your dog - you can start planning changes so as to keep your dog in this much more positive mood state in the future. This might be more working from home - or if that is impossible, it may mean finding a reliable daily dog walker who can give your dog what they need while you are at work. Cats aren’t quite so clear cut. Some are highly social and bonded to their owners and so they have loved the extra company and having people around to pander to their every wish. For others however the noise, bustle and activity of a busy family house where everyone has been at home for months can be extremely stressful. In any busy household, it is important to give cats an
‘escape route’ where they can get away somewhere comfortable and quiet when it all gets too much - baby gates across a quiet room can be ideal for this as can access to heights. Both dogs and cats (especially puppies and kittens) will suffer if they do not get enough sleep and as a result of lockdown, behaviourists have seen increases in reactivity, stress, and aggression cases that have arisen through households being so busy with everyone at home that the dogs and cats are just not able to get their usual amount of sleep. What changes in behaviour may pet owners see at this time of year? Traditionally this is a time of year where there are three issues that affect pet behaviour. The first is one that affects dogs - and that is the weather. With the onset of shorter days and often wet, grim weather, many owners exercise their dogs less, giving them shorter or fewer walks. This can give rise to boredom, frustration, and hyperactivity. If you know this tends to be you, find ways to make up for the lack of ‘out and about’ time with training sessions, enrichment activities and games. It is also a time of craziness in many households - with Halloween and Christmas coming up. These can all affect our pets. How can we help our pets during stressful times? While some animals have no problems at all with fireworks, it is estimated that around
half of all dogs show signs of noise phobia and fear at the almost endless bangs and crashes that accompany this time of year. It’s also thought that up to a third of lost companion animals are as a result of fleeing from the noise of fireworks. The best way to deal with noise phobias is to not have them develop at all - with breeders and new owners introducing their puppies and kittens to noises almost from birth, and owners continuing that in a controlled way through their lives. Hindsight however is a great thing and even with the best starts, an extreme or traumatic exposure to fireworks can result in a phobia developing at any time. For most companion animals, the best you can do is minimise the stresses as well you can. Make sure they don’t have to go out once it gets dark - so make sure your dog is well exercised and has been to the toilet before fireworks are likely to start. Try and make sure cats are safely indoors. Have the TV, radio or music on to try and mask the sounds a little - and build a safe, comfortable den near you where your pet can retreat to hide if they need to. A covered, lined crate works well. How does stress and anxiety differ in cats and dogs? Stress and anxiety is different in dogs and cats and it is different in different individuals. Nearly every behaviour problem has its roots in stress, fear or anxiety - whether that is aggression,
noise phobias, separationrelated behaviour problems, destructive behaviour, inappropriate toileting, reactivity or indeed displaying what looks like depression or ‘closing down’ (losing interests in the things they used to enjoy). If you are seeing behaviour problems in your animal whether canine or feline you can be sure that there will be stress and anxiety there are well. Behaviour is just a symptom! If pet owners notice any changes in behaviour what should they do? If owners see any changes of behaviour in their animals that give them cause for concern, the first stop is their vet. Sudden changes often have a medical cause and so a vet will either be able to diagnose that or rule it out. After that, find an accredited experienced behaviourist who can help. How important is pet insurance? Insurance is important for pets at all stages of life as it gives owners the peace of mind that they can afford to give their companions they very best care no matter what the future holds. There is no NHS for pets and so as animals age, treatment to keep them healthy and happy can be unexpectedly expensive.
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ADVICE FROM THE EXPERT
11
Rabbit behaviour By Emma Purnell, RVN Cert.Nut. Rabbits are very unlike cats and dogs, they are a prey species which means their body language and behaviour can be different and seem unusual. They are quiet animals so reading their body language and ear position can give us an insight into how they feel. An interested rabbit will generally have ears up and tilted towards anything they are listening to. Relaxed rabbits generally sit and hold their ears at around 45 degrees to their body but can lie them flat along their back, the key is that their body will remain relaxed. Lop eared rabbits cannot lift their ears but you can see the rotation at the base. If sitting at rest they can be in any position from legs tucked under them but with their posture relaxed. A very relaxed and safe rabbit will extend legs out either behind them or even just lie flat out on their sides – this ‘dead bunny flop’ can look pretty scary if you find them like this but they will behave as normal if disturbed. This extension of their back legs is important, rabbits are prey species and by doing this they are putting themselves in a position where it will take some time to get up. They must feel safe to do this. Rabbits will sometimes present themselves to an owner or another rabbit by lowering their chest and lying their head on the floor. This is done to get the owner or other rabbit to groom them and is often the rabbit higher in the hierarchy that will do this – the more submissive rabbit will
groom the more dominant. If a rabbit is alert they will also have their ears raised, but less directional and more directly upwards to scan for any predators. Their ears can move separately, they can fix one ear on a specific sound and continue to scan with the other. They often sit in a more alert posture, legs underneath the body ready to run away from danger if needed. There will be more tension in the body and this can be seen. It is often seen if they are introduced to a new area. If you are seeing this regularly in your rabbit it is worth making sure they have areas within their environment where they can feel safe. They may ‘periscope’, standing up on their back legs to increase their field of vision and their nose may twitch more rapidly as they take in any smells. Animals in pain have certain behaviours we can look out for but they can be fairly subtle, as a prey animal showing weakness can risk them being predated. If they have stomach pain they will often press their stomach into the floor, often with their legs a little further behind than normal. Being hunched, reduction in exploring and exercising, tooth grinding and any changes to eating, grooming or toileting can also be signs of an issue. If you see any of these signs you should see a vet immediately. Very scared or aggressive rabbits will lie their ears flat in a similar position to very relaxed rabbits, making it important to view the body language as a whole. Unlike a relaxed rabbit, the scared or aggressive rabbit will be very tense, make themselves look as small as possible,
have all four legs tight underneath them ready to attack or run away and will be low to the ground. A rabbit likely to attack will raise and stiffen its tail, a common response if cornered and they feel they have no other option. If your rabbit is showing fearful behaviours then it is important they have a safe place to feel secure. A dark, quiet shelter for them to be able to run into can make them feel more secure, this is particularly important in outside runs as they are often made of mesh, making the rabbit feel very exposed. Shelters should have at least two exits, stopping them from feeling trapped. Handling should be minimal, most rabbits are not keen on being picked up at the best of times and handling a frightened rabbit will likely lead to you being scratched or bitten. If you must pick them up and move them, using a towel to ensure they are safe and secure and to protect yourself from injury is advised. Avoid approaching them from above, approach them
from the side where they are less likely to be surprised and lash out. Be aware they may kick out and if not handled properly they can do serious damage to their spine which can be fatal. Rabbits can make wonderful pets, but a good understanding of their behaviour and how to make them feel secure is essential to ensure they are as happy as we can make them.
Emma qualified as a Veterinary Nurse in 2008 and works for Nutravet (UK) Ltd. She has a BSc in Zoology with Animal Ecology and an MSc in Ecology, helping to fuel her interest in more exotic species. She has a particular love of small furries and has a grade A distinction in Canine and Feline Clinical Nutrition (CertNut).
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