‘Tis the season to be jolly… not stressed out due to a midnight dash to our emergency service in Glasgow!
Every year at Avenues Vets we see a spike in emergency vet visits over the holiday season as pets encounter dangers that can be prevented wth a few extra safeguards in place.
Keep our emergency details handy
Avoidable pet emergencies at Christmas – what owners need to know
It’s all too common…Christmas Eve and the dog’s eaten the chocolate yule log – time to call the emergency vet!
We want to help you avoid these dangers, so here are the three most common yet avoidable causes of emergency admissions that we see at Avenues Vets every year.
Accidental poisoning
Curious pets explore with their mouths. Sadly, many common festive items can be harmful. The Avenues Vets’ team advise that pet owners should keep harmful items out of reach:
- Human food & drink: Chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, macadamia nuts, and alcohol (to name a few) are all toxic for pets.
- Medications: Keep all tablets and liquids locked away.
- Household chemicals: Wipe up spills of cleaning products or antifreeze straight away.
- Poisonous plants: Lilies, poinsettias, mistletoe and holly berries are festive but toxic.
Ingestion
At Christmas, it’s common to see pets who have swallowed things they shouldn’t. Decorations, ribbons, and tinsel can cause intestinal blockages, while dogs especially may chew and swallow toy parts or cooked bones. Our vets in Glasgow say it’s always important to be mindful of hazards, secure bins, and keep pets away from leftovers.
Table scraps & rich foods
Rich, fatty foods and festive leftovers are a recipe for tummy trouble.
- Cooked bones splinter easily and can puncture the gut.
- Foods high in sugar can lead to weight gain, dental problems and diabetes
- Fatty foods like gravy and roast trimmings may trigger pancreatitis.
A few simple precautions can mean a happier, safer holiday season for everyone—furry family members especially! Here’s our top advice:
- Keep tempting foods and hazards out of reach.
- Don’t leave pets unsupervised around christmas trees, gifts, and party food.
- Dispose of scraps safely.
- Offer pets their own safe festive treats instead!
Our team at Avenues Vets advise that if your pet shows signs of distress, vomiting, or weakness, or even if you suspect they have ingested something dangerous, contact our emergency vet service in Glasgow immediately.
Real Christmas trees are beautiful, but are they the best option when you have pets? At this time of year, our vets in Glasgow often see cases where curious cats, dogs or rabbits have got a little too close to the tree, with unfortunate results.
If you do need urgent help, call our team at Avenues Vets on 0141 643 0404 straight away and we’ll arrange to see your pet as quickly as possible.
See our out of hours emegency vet service information
Which type of Christmas tree is best for pets?
Real Christmas trees
1. Pine needle problems
Pine needles may look harmless, but they’re sharp and non-digestible. If chewed or swallowed, they can cause irritation or even punctures to the mouth, throat, and stomach. Avenues Veterinary Centre’s team share that pets who eat pine needles may show signs such as drooling, vomiting or reluctance to eat. In severe cases, the needles can cause dangerous internal blockages that require emergency care.
Pine trees also contain natural oils (terpenes) that can upset your pet’s stomach or cause skin irritation. Cats are particularly sensitive to these oils and may develop drooling, weakness or tremors after exposure. If you’ve ever wondered “are pine needles toxic to cats and dogs?”, the answer is yes, they are.
2. Troublesome tree water
Our vets in Glasgow explain that Christmas tree water often contains sap and sometimes fertiliser that can cause tummy upsets if pets drink it.
Are plastic trees safe?
The short answer is, not really. If you have an artificial tree, remember they’re not risk-free either, as their plastic or tinsel-like needles can cause choking if chewed.
Call us on 0141 643 0404 straight away if you’re pet has ingested anything harmful.
Our verdict?
We don’t want to be bah-humbug, so our advice is always “think safety first!” Here are a few Christmas tree tips to reduce risk at home:
- Reduce pet access to the tree if you can.
- Failing that, sweep up fallen pine needles daily.
- Secure your tree to a wall if possible to prevent tipping.
- Avoid issues with tree water by securely covering the base of your tree.
- If buying a plastic tree, ensure there are no small detachable parts that could be chewed off and swallowed.
- Tie up loose cables.
- Always choose pet-safe decorations and avoid having tinsel or edible ornaments within reach of pets.
Taking a few simple precautions will maximise the chances of your pets staying healthy and your home festive. Our veterinary team at Avenues Vets love seeing your pets, but we’re sure an emergency admission on Christmas Eve isn’t on your wish list!
Call us for advice or pop into the practice if there’s anything you’re unsure about before the holidays.
Looking for more pet care news? Be sure to check our other seasonal articles for tips from our vets in Glasgow and things you need to know about winter pet care.
If you’re planning a holiday in the New Year, our team at Avenues Vets have some top tips to help you find the perfect cattery.
We know leaving your cat can be daunting, but with these questions, we’ll help you find your cat the most perfect holiday home in Lanarkshire.
Download our cat travel safety tips
Our team suggest working through the questions below to find out everything you need to know about prospective holiday care for your cat.
Cattery: healthcare requirements
Vaccinations and parasite treatment
Work out what the cattery will need from you when it comes to your pet being vaccinated and up-to-date with their flea, tick and worming treatment. If you’re unsure as to when your cat had their most recent vaccinations, contact our team in Glasgow and we can check.
Your cat’s healthcare
Enquire about the cattery’s process for dealing with a veterinary emergency and who their local vet is.
Cattery: services, security and facilities available
It’s always a good idea to visit prospective catteries before choosing one as you’ll only get a sense of certain aspects in person – our team have listed some of these below.
Security measures
Ask about what security measures are in place to protect your cat. Check windows and doors to make sure they are escape-proof and ask about their fire safety measures.
Hygiene
Pay special attention to the cleanliness of the cattery. The sleeping areas, litter boxes and common spaces should be clean and odour-free.
Specialised feeding
Discuss your cat’s dietary requirements before booking and make sure the cattery has the facilities to accommodate any particular needs your pet may have. If your cat has a specialised diet from Avenues Vets and you are running low, give us a call on 0141 643 0404 or order your meds here.
Noise and stress levels
You need to be sure that the noise levels in the cattery will not be too distressing for your cat. Enquire about what measures the cattery has in place to minimise the noise and stress levels for your cat. You may also get a feel for this this during a visit.
Accommodation options
Your chosen cattery may have various different accommodation options available – check if they are suitable for your cat?
Individual care
Ask whether the cattery offers cats individual playtime, care and fuss. Concerned about getting your cat to the cattery? Take a look at our 21 tips for transporting your cat.
External research on your cattery
Reputation and reviews
Our team in Glasgow recommend paying attention to reviews and testimonials to understand what other cat owners have experienced with your chosen cattery before booking.
Booking policies and prices
Understand the cattery’s booking policies, the deposit and payment terms available.
Licences and insurance
Check the cattery has the necessary licences to meet industry standards. It will also need appropriate insurance so it’s worth asking about what cover they have in place.
How do you feel?
Ask the cattery how they will communicate with you and if you’re happy with this. Lots of catteries can offer daily pictures and updates so work out what you’re comfortable with.
Plan to visit the cattery ahead of your cat’s booking to visibly assess the facilities, cleanliness, and mannerisms of the staff who will be caring for your pet.
Using the points above will help you to develop your own feelings about the cattery. If you’re unsure or have doubts about certain aspects listed above, keep searching. The last thing you want whilst on holiday is to feel worried that your cat isn’t being cared for to the standards you expect.
Remember, thorough research and early planning is key to choosing the right temporary home for your cat in Lanarkshire.
Our vets at Avenues Vets will be able to suggest potential catteries in the local area. Contact us on 0141 643 0404 for more information.
Download our cat travel tips – a handy checklist to use when taking and picking your cat up from their stay at the cattery, and for any journey in the car your feline friend needs to take.
As pets get older, it’s natural for them to slow down, but that doesn’t mean they should stop moving altogether. Regular, gentle exercise around Lanarkshire can keep your senior pet’s joints supple, muscles strong, and heart healthy, while also helping to maintain a healthy weight.
Our team at Avenues Vets share easy ways to keep older pets active without overdoing it. Need some advice on putting a pep in your pet’s step? Book an appointment with our vets in Glasgow for a senior health check.
Why staying active matters for older pets
Exercise isn’t just for the young. For senior pets, gentle activity can:
- Support joint mobility and flexibility
- Maintain muscle mass for stability and balance
- Help control weight and reduce obesity risk
- Support heart health and circulation
- Provide mental stimulation and reduce boredom
These benefits can also help prevent or manage age-related conditions such as arthritis, heart disease, and diabetes.
Low-impact exercise ideas for senior dogs
- Short, frequent walks around Lanarkshire: Several 10–15 minute strolls can be easier on the joints than one long walk.
- Gentle games: Indoor fetch with a soft toy or slow-paced scent games keep the brain and body engaged.
- Swimming: A great joint-friendly exercise for dogs who enjoy the water (only in safe, warm conditions).
- Puzzle feeders: Encourage movement and problem-solving at mealtimes.
Keeping senior cats active
- Encourage climbing: Use low or ramp-accessed perches to make jumping easier.
- Interactive play: Wand toys, laser pointers, and rolling balls can get cats moving in short bursts.
- Food games: Scatter feeding or puzzle feeders encourage natural hunting behaviour.
Joint care tips
Older pets may need a little extra support to stay comfortable during and after exercise:
- Warm up with slow, gentle movement before activity
- Provide soft bedding and a warm resting spot
- Use ramps or steps to help them reach favourite spots
- Keep exercise surfaces non-slip to reduce the risk of falls
- At your next appointment ask our vets at Avenues Vets about supplements or medication to support joint health
Enjoy every stage together
Keeping your older pet active doesn’t have to mean strenuous exercise. It’s about gentle, regular movement and activities they enjoy. By staying in tune with their needs and abilities, you can help them stay healthy, happy and full of life for longer.
Regular vet checks are essential
Senior pets should have at least one full health check with our vets in Glasgow each year – ideally every six months – so any changes in mobility, weight or heart health can be spotted early. We can help you adapt their exercise plan as their needs change. Contact our friendly team to book your senior pet’s health check in Lanarkshire.
Winter car journeys require extra preparation when you’re travelling with furry passengers. Cold weather presents unique challenges that can affect your pet’s comfort and safety, making a few simple precautions essential for stress-free winter adventures.
Our vets at Avenues Vets have put together a list of pointers to check ahead of your trip. Before setting off on winter journeys, consider booking a check-up with our vets. A health assessment ensures your pet is fit for travel. Book an appointment with our vets in Glasgow to make sure your furry friend is ready for a safe and comfortable winter trip.
How to travel safely with pets in cold weather
Pre-journey preparation
- Start your car and allow it to warm up before bringing your pet outside. Our vets at Avenues Vets explain that cold interiors can shock sensitive pets, particularly elderly animals or those with thin coats.
- Check that heating vents aren’t blowing directly onto your pet’s carrier or usual spot, whilst warmth is welcome, direct hot air can cause overheating or dehydration.
- Pack extra blankets for longer journeys around Lanarkshire or further afield. Even with heating, some pets feel chilly during travel and familiar bedding provides comfort alongside warmth.
Safe restraint in winter conditions
Proper restraint becomes even more critical during winter driving. Icy roads increase the likelihood of sudden stops or skids, making unrestrained pets dangerous projectiles.
- Use appropriate harnesses, carriers, or car barriers depending on your pet’s size.
- Never transport pets in the boot during cold weather – temperatures can drop dangerously low and heating rarely reaches these areas effectively.
Temperature management
- Monitor your pet for signs of overheating once the car warms up. Our vets at Avenues Vets warn that panting, restlessness, or drooling suggest they’re too warm.
- Crack windows slightly for fresh air, but be mindful of creating draughts.
- Conversely, watch for shivering or lethargy that might indicate they’re still too cold. Adjust heating or add blankets accordingly.
- If using a dog coat, it’s wise to put this on your dog when you reach your destination to avoid overheating during the journey.
Journey planning considerations
- Check weather forecasts and road conditions before departing.
- Winter storms can extend journey times significantly, so pack extra water and any necessary medications.
- Plan for regular breaks – pets need toilet stops regardless of weather but keep these brief during harsh conditions.
- Keep emergency supplies in your boot: extra blankets, water, food, and basic first aid supplies. If you become stranded, these items could prove invaluable.
Arrival protocols
- Allow your pet time to adjust when reaching your destination. Moving from a warm car into cold outdoor air can be jarring.
- If staying overnight somewhere new, bring familiar bedding to help them settle comfortably.
- Our vets at Avenues Vets remind you to never leave pets unattended in cars during winter. Even with heating off, vehicles can become dangerously cold quickly, and condensation can create uncomfortable dampness.
Special considerations
Short-haired breeds, senior pets and small animals are particularly vulnerable to cold. Consider protective clothing for brief outdoor stops and keep journeys as short as possible during severe weather. Remember that paws can suffer from road salt exposure so wipe them clean after any outdoor breaks to prevent irritation or ingestion when grooming.
With thoughtful preparation, winter car travel with pets can remain safe and enjoyable for everyone involved.
If you’re planning a long trip, a quick vet visit beforehand can make all the difference to your pet’s comfort and safety. Book an appointment with our vets in Glasgow to get peace of mind before you leave.
A good diet doesn’t just keep your pet in shape – it can help them stay younger for longer. At Avenues Vets, we often say prevention is better than cure, and that couldn’t be truer when it comes to food. With more than half of UK dogs and cats now considered overweight or obese, the link between diet and ageing is abundantly clear.
In the article below, our vets in Glasgow offer guidance on choosing the right food and what to avoid. If you’re concerned about the weight of your cat or dog, book an appointment with our team at Avenues Vets and make a healthy start today!
Book a weight or diet check-up
Pet diet advice: how to avoid prematurely ageing your pet
According to our Glasgow vets, excess weight places a strain on your pet’s joints, heart, and other vital organs. It can speed up the onset of arthritis, diabetes, and even poses a higher risk for some types of cancer. But it’s not just about avoiding obesity – imbalanced nutrition can mean your pet misses out on key nutrients that support healthy ageing.
Are you feeding your pet the right food?
Life stage nutrition is important. Puppies and kittens need different nutrients to adult or senior pets, and nutritional needs can also depend on activity levels and a variety of other health factors. Our veterinary team at Avenues Vets recommend choosing a complete, age-appropriate food and adjusting portions based on your pet’s lifestyle and body condition – not just what the label says.
Book a nurse appointment at our Glasgow vet practice and we can help you create the right dietary plan for your pet’s individual needs.
What to avoid
Human food is often too salty, sugary or fatty for pets. It can also be toxic, especially items like grapes, chocolate, onions and some artificial sweeteners (xylitol). Even ‘pet-friendly’ treats should be given in moderation. Aim to keep treats to no more than 10% of daily calorie intake.
Why regular weigh-ins help
Weight gain can creep up unnoticed. Regular weigh-ins at our vet practice in Glasgow mean we can spot subtle changes before they become a bigger issue. Call us to book a weight appointment with our nurses on 0141 643 0404 and we can create a personalised weight-loss or maintenance plan tailored to your pet’s needs.
Keep them young at heart
Maintaining a healthy weight and balanced diet can improve your pet’s mobility, energy, and even lifespan. Think of food as medicine – it has the power to heal, support and prevent future problems. If you’d like to read more information about pet wellbeing, take a look at our pet care news.
For friendly advice on your pet’s diet and wellbeing, contact our team at Avenues Vets and we’ll help you with steps to keep your cat or dog on the road to great health through all life’s stages.
With Pet Diabetes Month on the horizon this November, it’s a great time to raise awareness of this increasingly common condition in cats and dogs. Our vets in Glasgow want to help you recognise the signs early and feel confident about supporting a diabetic pet.
To help you, our team at Avenues Vets have prepared some guidance on how to recognise the signs of pet diabetes and manage treatment. If you notice changes in your pet, don’t wait – book a check-up so we can test for diabetes and start any necessary treatment.
What is diabetes and how does it happen in pets?
Diabetes mellitus occurs when your pet’s body can’t produce enough insulin (or use it properly), meaning sugar builds up in the bloodstream instead of being used as energy. Dogs tend to develop insulin-dependent diabetes, while in cats, it’s often linked to obesity and insulin resistance.
Key signs to watch for:
Pet diabetes often creeps in gradually, so spotting it early is vital. Our vets at Avenues Vets advise to look out for:
- Increased thirst and urination
- Increased appetite with weight loss
- Lethargy
- Sweet-smelling breath
- Cloudy eyes (more common in diabetic dogs)
How is it managed?
Pet diabetes isn’t curable, but it is manageable with the right care. Many pets will need daily insulin injections (there are non-injection options for cats), a tailored diet and regular check-ins with our vets in Glasgow. Many diabetic cats and dogs live happy, active lives once stabilised.
Can pet diabetes be prevented?
Not all cases are preventable, but our team at Avenues Vets explain that maintaining a healthy weight plays a major role – especially in cats. Feeding measured, balanced meals, keeping your pet active, and coming in for annual health checks can all help reduce the risk. Call us on 0141 643 0404 to book your next check-up.
The support you need
Managing diabetes might sound overwhelming, but our vets in Glasgow are here to support you every step of the way. From showing you how to give injections to giving advice on diet choices, we’ll help you build a routine that works for your pet and for you. If you’d like to read more information about looking after your pet’s health and wellbeing, you’ll find further articles in our pet care news.
Worried your pet might have diabetes or be at risk? Book a diabetes check-up with our friendly team at Avenues Vets.
As the days grow shorter and the nights colder, firework season is fast approaching. While we may look forward to the colourful displays, for many pets, fireworks around Lanarkshire can be a source of intense stress and anxiety. But the good news is that preparing now can help your furry friends feel more secure when the loud bangs start in late October and November.
In this article, our team at Avenues Vets share some essential steps to help your pets stay calm during firework season, whether they’re dogs, cats, rabbits, or guinea pigs. We’re also here to talk about calming aids if you feel they might be needed.
Contact us about ordering calming aids
Prep now for firework season: helping your pets stay calm
1. Create a safe space
One of the most important things you can do for your pet is provide them with a safe, quiet place to retreat to during firework displays in Lanarkshire.
- For dogs and cats: Choose a room that’s far from the noise. Close windows, pull down the blinds or draw the curtains, and consider playing calming music or white noise to mask the sounds of fireworks.
- For rabbits and guinea pigs: Set up their cage in a room that’s secluded from outside noise. Make sure it’s in a location where they feel secure but can still see their familiar surroundings.
2. Familiar Scents and Comfort Items
Our team at Avenues Vets advise that a familiar smell can help reassure your pet when they’re feeling frightened.
- For dogs: Keep their favourite blanket, toy or a piece of your clothing nearby to comfort them. You can also consider a pheromone diffuser (ask our team for advice), which mimics calming scents that dogs find soothing.
- For cats: Cats are scent-driven, so having their favourite blanket or bed with them in their safe space can help them feel more secure.
- For rabbits and guinea pigs: Include their usual bedding or hay and keep the cage in a familiar, quiet area. They can also benefit from a soft, cuddly hideout.
3. Consider Calming Products
Our vets in Glasgow suggest several types of calming products that can help ease anxiety.
- For dogs: You might want to try pheromone diffusers, anxiety wraps, calming chews, or sprays. Speak to our vets at Avenues Vets for recommendations on calming products or ask about anti-anxiety medication if your dog’s fear of fireworks is particularly severe.
- For cats: Again, pheromone diffusers or sprays can be very effective in calming cats. Some owners find calming collars work well too.
- For rabbits and guinea pigs: While these smaller pets typically don’t respond to calming sprays, keeping them in a dark, quiet place can help them feel safer.
Ask our team about the best pheromone diffusers and other calming products available for dogs and cats, and when they should ideally be started. Some pet calming products, such as diffusers, work best when started a few weeks before the events, so now is the ideal time to get advice and get them ordered.
4. Training and Desensitisation
The earlier you start, the better. Training your pet to be more comfortable with loud noises in Lanarkshire can take time, but it’s possible to desensitise them gradually.
- For dogs: Start by playing firework soundtracks at a very low volume and slowly increase the volume over time. Pair this with positive reinforcement (treats and praise) to help them associate the sounds with good things.
- For cats: You can use similar sound desensitisation techniques for cats. Try playing gentle noises, gradually introducing louder sounds as your cat becomes more comfortable.
- For rabbits and guinea pigs: They are more sensitive to loud noises, so it’s important to focus on keeping them in a calm, secure environment. You can get them used to soft background noise gradually, but always ensure they have a safe place to retreat.
5. Vet Consultation
If your pet experiences severe anxiety during firework season, it’s always a good idea to consult our vets at Avenues Vets as early as possible. They can offer tailored advice, recommend pet calming products and medications, or suggest more advanced behaviour therapies.
Remember, some calming aids can work best if they are started sooner, so don’t delay.
Order calming aids now or book for advice
If your pet was in pain, you’d notice straight away – or would you? Chronic pain, unlike sudden acute pain, can develop slowly and linger for weeks, months or even years. It’s often the result of ongoing conditions like arthritis, dental disease or spinal problems, and because the changes are gradual, they can be easy to miss.
During Animal Pain Awareness Month, our team at Avenues Vets want to help you spot the signs that something might not be quite right with your dog or cat. If you’ve noticed any changes in your pet’s behaviour, it could be more than just ‘getting older’ or ‘having an off day.’
Worried your pet could be hurting? Book an appointment with our vets in Glasgow so we can give them a top to tail check-up.
Why pets hide pain
In the wild, showing weakness could mean losing access to food or safety – and our pets have inherited that same survival instinct. With chronic pain, the signs are often even harder to spot because they develop gradually. Your dog might walk more slowly over months, or your cat might start jumping onto lower surfaces instead of their usual spots. These small adjustments help them cope, but they also make it easier for ongoing pain to go unnoticed.
Our vets at Avenues Vets often find that owners only realise the extent of their pet’s discomfort once treatment begins and the difference in mobility or mood is clear.
The signs to look out for
Chronic pain can be especially difficult to recognise because it builds slowly over time. When you see your pet every day, gradual changes can be easy to overlook – what starts as a slightly shorter walk, or a little extra rest can turn into a significant loss of mobility or enthusiasm.
Our vets in Glasgow recommend watching for these subtle but important signs:
- Reluctance to jump, climb or walk as usual
- Limping, stiffness or slowing down on walks
- Changes in grooming – less, more, or just in one spot
- Withdrawn or grumpy behaviour
- Pacing, panting or restlessness
- Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
In cats, particularly, pain can be incredibly well hidden. Simply going outside less or hesitating before jumping up might be your only clue.
What causes chronic pain?
Some of the most common causes of ongoing, long-term pain in pets include:
- Arthritis or degenerative joint disease
- Long-standing dental problems
- Chronic injuries or mobility issues
- Spinal conditions such as intervertebral disc disease
- Ongoing internal conditions like bladder inflammation or kidney disease
Chronic pain doesn’t just affect mobility – it can impact mood, appetite, and overall quality of life. Because it tends to creep in slowly, owners might put changes down to “just getting older,” but with the right treatment plan, many pets regain comfort and energy.
The good news is that, once identified by our vets at Avenues Vets, pain can often be treated or managed successfully, bringing real improvements to your pet’s wellbeing and happiness.
Don’t wait and see
Chronic pain rarely improves on its own – in fact, it often worsens if left untreated. Even small, gradual changes in your pet’s movement, behaviour, or energy can be early signs of something that needs attention. Acting now means we can identify the cause, create a long-term management plan, and help your pet stay as comfortable and active as possible.
Book an appointment to talk to our vets in Glasgow or call us now on 0141 643 0404. We’re always happy to help, because no pet should have to live with ongoing pain.
Do you keep an eye on your cat’s toileting habits? If not, now’s the time to start. Urinary issues are among the most common signs of illness and stress in cats, and they can escalate quickly – sometimes with fatal consequences if left untreated.
That’s why The Avenues Vets’ Nicola Armstrong is highlighting the importance of understanding feline urinary health and sharing the key things cat owners should know. If you’re concerned your pet cat may be suffering from urinary issues, then book an appointment to have them checked over.
Which cats are affected?
Nicola explains that male cats are at higher risk of urinary blockages due to their narrower urethras. These blockages are life-threatening and require urgent treatment. Females can also experience urinary infections and discomfort, so no cat should be overlooked. Understanding what’s normal for your cat, and acting when something changes, is crucial.
Signs of a problem
Cats are usually very clean and will toilet in a familiar place, such as a litter tray. If something is wrong, you may notice:
- Urinating outside the litter tray (e.g. on beds or in the bath)
- Straining or taking longer to urinate
- Repeated visits to the litter tray with little or no output
- Blood in the urine
- Crying or vocalising when trying to urinate
- Excessive licking around the genitals
How serious is a blockage?
If your cat hasn’t passed urine for over 24 hours, this may be a medical emergency, especially in males. Toxins can build up quickly, leading to vomiting, weakness and even collapse. Even if your cat is passing small amounts of urine, please call Avenues Veterinary Centre’s team immediately on 0141 643 0404 for advice.
What causes urinary problems in cats?
Up to two-thirds of cases are classed as Feline Idiopathic Cystitis, with no clear cause. However, stress is known to play a major role. Triggers can include:
- Home changes (e.g. moving house or renovations)
- New pets, babies, or household tension
- Competition for resources in multi-cat homes
Other causes include infections, crystals, bladder stones, tumours, or urethral plugs. Our vets in Glasgow may need to examine your cat and run urine tests or diagnostic imaging to investigate. Risk factors include:
- Male cats
- Overweight or inactive cats
- Dry food-only diets
- Middle-aged cats
Treatment and prevention
Nicola explains that the treatment depends on the cause. Mild cystitis may only need anti-inflammatories, but a blocked bladder is a true emergency requiring hospital care. Keeping your cat hydrated and stress levels low are two of the best ways to protect their urinary health.
Helpful tips:
- Add wet food to boost moisture intake
- Offer multiple water bowls or a pet fountain
- Give each cat their own litter tray, bed, and feeding area
- Keep litter trays clean and easily accessible
- Encourage play and exercise daily
Urinary problems can be complex, but many are manageable with early intervention. If something doesn’t seem right, please book an appointment, or in an emergency, call our vets in Glasgow on 0141 643 0404.
