Articles
Field notes on caring for the pets you love.
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A Complete Guide to Caring for Leicester Longwool Sheep
Leicester Longwool sheep are a historic British breed known for their large size, lustrous fleece, and calm nature. Originating in the 18th century, they were developed by Robert Bakewell and have influenced many modern sheep breeds. They are valued for both their wool and heritage. Key features include their large size, distinctive appearance, and calm temperament. They require good shelter, nutritional management, and regular health care. Leicester Longwool sheep are easy to handle and suitable for smallholders, offering a combination of history, practicality, and conservation value for those who keep them.
Sheep Livestock -
Can Cats Eat Raw and Cooked Meat?
Feeding your cat meat is vital as they're obligate carnivores. Options like chicken, beef, lamb, and pork are suitable if prepared safely. Meat provides taurine, protein, and essential vitamins. Both raw and cooked options have benefits and risks. Raw meat needs strict hygiene and can mimic natural diets, but poses bacterial risks. Cooked meat is safer for households but must be unseasoned and free from bones. Cats shouldn't eat processed, seasoned, or fatty meats, and bones should always be raw. Monitor your cat's health and consult a vet or nutrition expert to ensure a balanced diet.
Cats -
The Himalayan Rabbit: A Calm, Elegant, and Striking Breed
The Himalayan rabbit is a charming and ancient rabbit breed known for its unique point colouring and gentle nature. Despite its mysterious origins, this breed has been cherished for centuries. Ideal for families and first-time owners, Himalayans are friendly, calm, and best suited for indoor living. Weighing between 1.1–2 kg, they are known for their slim build, short soft fur, and temperature-sensitive markings. They thrive in spacious homes with ample exercise, proper diet, and simple grooming. While generally healthy, they do require attention to prevent dental and obesity issues. Companionship is important, as they are social creatures. With proper care and a loving home, Himalayan rabbits make delightful and rewarding companions.
Small Mammals -
Why Do Dogs Howl?
Dog howling is a unique behaviour linked to their wolf ancestry, serving as a form of long-distance communication. Dogs howl for various reasons including announcing their presence, responding to high-pitched noises like sirens, seeking attention, or expressing emotions such as loneliness, excitement, or anxiety. Breeds like Huskies and Beagles are more prone to howling. Howling is usually harmless, but sudden changes or excessive howling can signal issues like anxiety or medical problems. To address problem howling, consider increasing stimulation, ensuring a calm environment, and consulting a vet for any health concerns.
Dogs -
A Complete Guide to Owning a Laos Forest Scorpion
The Laos Forest Scorpion is a large, calm scorpion native to Southeast Asia, known for its jet-black colour and relatively mild venom. It's suitable for beginner and intermediate keepers, making an impressive display animal when housed properly. The scorpion thrives in a humid, warm environment with moderate ventilation and should be kept alone. It feeds on crickets, roaches, and worms, with adults eating every 7–10 days. Handling is discouraged due to its strong pincers. Available for £20–£50, these scorpions are affordable to maintain and provide an interesting addition to any collection.
Exotic -
Wild Ducks You’ll Find in the UK
The UK is home to many wild ducks, which can be found in various habitats like ponds, rivers, and coastlines. Common types include mallards, tufted ducks, and shelducks, each with unique features and behaviours. Some, like the mallard, are resident year-round, while others, such as the goldeneye, visit in winter. Ducks are grouped into dabbling, diving, and sea ducks based on their feeding habits. Popular spots for duck watching include nature reserves, coastal estuaries, and public parks. Bringing binoculars and visiting during early morning or late afternoon can help in spotting different species.
Poultry -
Winter Paw Care for Cats: Protecting Your Cat’s Feet in Cold Weather
Winter in the UK can be tough on cats' paws due to cold, wet conditions, ice, and grit. Cats may face issues like dry, cracked pads, irritation from grit, ice build-up, cuts, and infections. To protect your cat, check their paws regularly, wipe them clean after outdoor times, trim fur between toes, and limit outdoor access during harsh conditions. Indoors, provide warm, dry spots and keep litter trays clean. Regular grooming is important, but avoid human products on cat paws. Contact a vet if you notice persistent limping, swelling, or signs of infection. Special care is needed for kittens, senior cats, and those with certain health conditions.
Cats -
Understanding and Treating Anchor Worms in Fish
Anchor worms are parasitic crustaceans that can harm aquarium fish by attaching to their bodies. Recognisable by their thread-like appearance, they cause physical trauma, stress, and infections. Key steps to managing anchor worms include enhancing water quality, removing visible worms, treating the entire aquarium with medications, and quarantining new fish. Prevent future outbreaks by maintaining healthy tank conditions and ensuring equipment is clean. For severe cases or when usual treatments fail, consult an aquatic specialist for advice.
Aquatics -
How to Care for Rescued Hens in Your Backyard Flock
Rescuing hens from commercial egg farms gives them a new lease on life. They may arrive with missing feathers or be nervous, but with proper care, they can thrive. It’s important to create a calm environment, provide quality feed for strength, and encourage natural behaviours like dust bathing. Regular check-ups can help catch health issues early, and careful introductions to existing flocks minimise stress. Rescuing hens is a rewarding experience as they transform from timid birds into confident and social members of the backyard flock.
Poultry -
Anxiety in Dogs: Causes, Signs and How to Help
Anxiety in dogs involves ongoing fear that affects their behaviour and health. This condition can be caused by factors like separation, noise sensitivity, and medical issues. Signs include excessive barking and trembling. Treatment includes behaviour modification, environmental adjustments, and sometimes medication. Early recognition and support are crucial, and professional guidance should be sought for severe cases. With patience and the right approach, owners can help their dogs feel safer and more at ease.
Dogs -
A Complete Guide to Owning a Chilean Desert Scorpion
The Chilean Desert Scorpion is a hardy invertebrate suitable for beginners and intermediate keepers interested in desert arachnids. Native to Chile's arid regions, it requires a simple, well-ventilated enclosure with a dry, sandy substrate and minimal decoration. Maintain temperatures between 22–28°C and keep humidity below 40%. Feed them live prey weekly and provide a shallow water dish. Avoid handling to reduce stress and risks. They are legal to keep in the UK, recommended to purchase from reputable breeders. Costs are minimal, making them an economical option for enthusiasts.
Exotic -
A Complete Guide to Raw Feeding for Cats
Raw feeding for cats is gaining popularity in the UK as it mimics their natural diet. While it can offer benefits like improved coat, digestion and hydration, it also carries risks such as bacterial contamination, nutritional imbalances and bone hazards. A balanced raw diet should include meat, bones, organs and sometimes supplements. Options include commercial raw meals, homemade diets and prey-model diets. It is crucial to maintain strict hygiene and follow expert advice. Raw feeding might not be suitable for all cats or households, especially where there are people with weakened immune systems. Consultation with a vet is advised for safe practice.
Cats