Avenues Veterinary Centre’s Guide to Christmas Trees and Pets

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:

  1. Reduce pet access to the tree if you can.
  2. Failing that, sweep up fallen pine needles daily.
  3. Secure your tree to a wall if possible to prevent tipping.
  4. Avoid issues with tree water by securely covering the base of your tree.
  5. If buying a plastic tree, ensure there are no small detachable parts that could be chewed off and swallowed.
  6. Tie up loose cables.
  7. 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.

Get in touch

 

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.

Read more advice

 

Rabbit Care: Tips for Heart Health

This month we’re focusing on heart health and the habits you can introduce to your rabbit’s daily life to help reduce the risk of illness. If your rabbit’s heart isn’t functioning as it should, it can impact their whole body. Below, our Vet Nicola Armstrong has created a heart health guide packed with tips to help you support your bunny’s heart.

If you spot changes in your rabbit’s breathing, energy, or behaviour then book a health check with our vets in Glasgow to help rule out heart or other health problems.

You can also learn more about the signs of heart disease in rabbits by downloading our Rabbit Heart Fact Sheet, and help us raise awareness amongst Lanarkshire rabbit owners by sharing our article on your socials.

Book a check-up

 

Our rabbit heart health guide

Rabbits can suffer from several heart conditions, including cardiomyopathy, congestive heart failure and hypertension. It’s important to try and keep your rabbit’s weight in a healthy range as extra weight puts extra strain on the heart – here’s how.

1. Daily diet essentials

Our Vet Nicola Armstrong explains that a healthy heart starts with a healthy diet. While rabbits don’t need special “heart foods”, feeding them the right balance of rabbit friendly foods every day can help maintain a healthy weight, support circulation and reduce the risk of strain on their heart.

Unlimited hay

  • Timothy, meadow, or orchard grass hay
  • Main source of fibre for healthy digestion and weight control

Fresh leafy greens (about a teacup per kg of body weight)

  • Romaine lettuce
  • Spring greens
  • Coriander (cilantro)
  • Basil
  • Dill

Herbs with antioxidant benefits

  • Parsley (small amounts)
  • Mint

Add in a few times a week

  • Kale (small handful – high calcium)
  • Spinach (small handful – high oxalate)
  • Broccoli leaves or stems
  • Carrot tops
  • Beet greens (sparingly)

2. Occasional treats only

  • Fruits: apple, strawberry, pear, banana (very small pieces)
  • Root veg: carrot, parsnip (small slices)

3. Foods to avoid

  • Commercial treats with cereals, seeds, or molasses
  • Too much fruit or high-sugar veg
  • Iceberg lettuce (low nutrition and harmful in large quantities due to presence of lactucarium)

4. Rabbit exercise and weight control

To prevent obesity, Nicola advises that it’s best to ensure your rabbit has plenty of space and opportunities to exercise. As naturally active mammals, physical activity will get their blood pumping and keep their heart healthy. You should also provide enrichment – use toys and play tunnels to stimulate your bunny’s brain.

5. A healthy living environment

Try to keep their living space as stress-free as possible to reduce the risk of hypertension. It’s also helps to reduce their exposure to air pollutants and avoid smoking around your rabbit.

6. Social interaction

Rabbits thrive on companionship. They are naturally social animals so a bonded companion will help promote their overall wellbeing. Call us on 0141 643 0404 to seek advice from our veterinary team at Avenues Vets on how to successfully pair rabbits. Looking out for any changes in rabbit’s health will help ensure they receive prompt treatment if they do become unwell.

If you notice changes in your rabbit’s breathing, energy, or behaviour, book a vet check-up at Avenues Vets to rule out heart or other health issues. 

Book a check-up

 

Before you go, download our Rabbit Heart Disease Symptoms Fact Sheet and help us raise awareness amongst Lanarkshire rabbit owners by sharing our article on your social media accounts.

Avenues Vets on Prepping Pets for Firework Season

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

 

Why Late Summer Can Be Itchy Season for Pets

Scratching, nibbling, head shaking… sound familiar? Late August and September are peak times for itchy skin flare-ups in pets, and our team at Avenues Vets are expecting to see an influx of cases.

While many causes are mild, some will need treatment from our vets in Glasgow to stop them from becoming serious – or seriously uncomfortable. Book an appointment if you’re concerned for your pet.

Book a skin and coat check-up

 

So, why do some pets itch more in late summer?

Temperatures in Lanarkshire often have a surge during late August and September, creating the perfect conditions for skin irritation. Here’s why late summer heat can prove tricky:

  • Fleas love the heat: Fleas and flea eggs thrive in warm, humid conditions and some dogs and cats are allergic to their bites.
  • Grass seeds are lurking: These sharp little nuisances can work their way into the paws, ears and even eyes of pets, causing discomfort or infection.
  • Pollen allergies peak: Just like us, pets can have seasonal allergies. Late summer weeds and grasses may be the culprits.
  • More time outdoors: Trips to the park and woods around Lanarkshire, or at home in your garden, mean more contact with irritants and insects.

Signs your pet may be struggling

Our team at Avenues Vets advise that if you spot any of these signs, it’s worth booking a check-up:

  • Constant scratching or licking
  • Red, sore or flaky skin
  • Bald patches or thinning fur
  • Head shaking or ear scratching
  • A bad smell from the coat or skin

How you can help your pet at home

There are a few things pet parents can do to stay ahead of late summer skin problems:

  • Use regular, vet-approved flea treatments from Avenues Vets
  • Check paws and ears after walks – especially in grassy areas
  • Wipe down fur with a damp cloth after outdoor time to remove pollen
  • Groom regularly to remove loose hair and keep the coat healthy

When to see the vet

Persistent itching or sore skin can lead to infections or ongoing discomfort, so it’s best not to wait. A check-up with our vets at Avenues Vets can help identify the cause – whether it’s fleas, allergies, grass seeds or something else – get an appointment booked and your pet feeling more comfortable fast.

Book a skin and coat check-up 

 

Summer/Autumn Rotting Apple Risks for Pets in Lanarkshire

As apples start to drop and ferment around Lanarkshire in late summer and early autumn, your garden might smell sweet – but for pets it can be a sticky trap of sour tummies, stings and unexpected hazards.

Got apple trees or fruit on the ground near you? Keep reading to help your pet steer clear of seasonal trouble. If you’re concerned about a sting or a scavenged snack, don’t hesitate to reach out to Avenues Vets for more advice.

Contact us for advice

 

Why rotting apples are troublesome for pets

Fallen fruit may seem harmless, but once it starts to rot, it can pack a punch. The Avenues Vets’ Nicola Armstrong explains how as apples break down, they begin to ferment naturally and that’s where the problems start.

For dogs and cats: A quick bite of fermenting fruit might cause digestive upset, vomiting or diarrhoea. In larger amounts, it can even lead to alcohol poisoning, especially in smaller pets.

For rabbits and guinea pigs: Rotting apples are far too sugary and acidic for their sensitive systems. If your rabbit or guinea pigs’ hutch or outdoor run is near to fruit trees and can’t be moved, Nicola advises owners to regularly check for fallen fruit and immediately remove any to prevent accidental ingestion.

The wasp problem: drunk, stingy and unpredictable

As if the apples weren’t enough trouble, their sugary scent attracts wasps in large numbers. Once they start feeding on the fermenting fruit, the wasps can become a bit tipsy themselves. That means:

  • They’re clumsier and slower, so easier for pets to catch
  • They’re more aggressive, so more likely to sting when startled
  • They hang around low to the ground, right at pet-sniffing level

Veterinary Surgeon Nicola warns that wasp stings in the mouth or throat can be dangerous and painful!

Signs your pet may have eaten something dodgy

Look out for these common symptoms:

  • Vomiting or diarrhoea
  • Weakness or wobbliness
  • Excessive drooling
  • Seeming ‘drunk’ or disoriented
  • Pawing at the mouth or swelling after a sting

Don’t wait to see if it passes – call our vets in Glasgow on 0141 643 0404 for advice.

Easy ways to protect your pets

  • Clear up fallen fruit daily – especially apples, plums and pears
  • Keep outdoor runs and play areas away from fruit trees
  • Supervise dogs on walks around Lanarkshire – many love a good forage!
  • Block access to compost heaps – especially if they include food waste or fermenting fruit
  • Know the signs of wasp stings – swelling, licking, or sudden discomfort

Worried about your pet?

Late summer and early autumn bring beautiful sights and smells around Lanarkshire, but they also bring some unexpected hazards. Keeping your garden clear of rotting fruit and your pet away from drunken wasps helps to avoid unplanned trips to the vet. Got a question for our team at Avenues Vets about something your pet has eaten or an insect sting?

Contact us for advice

 

Subtle Signs Your Rabbit or Guinea Pig Might Be Unwell

Rabbits and guinea pigs may be small, but they have big personalities – once you get to know them. The tricky part is, when they’re feeling poorly, they often keep it to themselves. As prey animals, it’s in their nature to hide signs of weakness, which means the early warning signs can be easy to miss.

Our vets in Glasgow have put together a checklist to refer to if you’re concerned about your pet. Regular preventative check-ups will help ease your worries so why not book an appointment today. 

Book an appointment

 

Why being observant matters

The sooner you spot a change in your pet’s behaviour or routine, the sooner they can get the help they need. The Avenues Vets’ team warn that a delay of even 24 hours can make a big difference with rabbits and guinea pigs. Here are a few subtle signs to watch out for:

Changes in appetite or eating habits

  • Eating less, more slowly, or refusing certain foods
  • Leaving favourite vegetables or not finishing hay
  • Droppings becoming smaller, fewer, or misshapen

Behavioural changes

  • Hiding more than usual
  • Seeming withdrawn or less interactive
  • Less curious or playful than normal
  • Aggression or defensiveness (unusual for your pet)

Physical signs

  • Sitting hunched up or looking uncomfortable
  • Breathing changes (e.g. faster, louder, or laboured)
  • A dirty bottom or changes in grooming habits
  • Discharge from the eyes or nose

Know what’s normal for your pet

The Avenues Vets’ team explain that every rabbit or guinea pig is different, so daily interaction and observation is the best way to learn what’s normal. That way, you’ll be able to spot when something’s not quite right.

Routine grooming, handling and health checks with our vets in Glasgow can help you pick up on small problems before they become big ones.

Don’t wait and see

Because small pets can go downhill quickly, it’s always better to get them checked at Avenues Vets, sooner rather than later – especially if they’ve stopped eating or toileting normally.

Book an appointment with our vets in Glasgow if you’ve spotted anything unusual. We’re always happy to talk through your concerns, and help you keep your small pets happy and healthy. 

Book an appointment

 

Top Tips for Moving House with Pets

Moving house can be exciting – but it’s also a big upheaval, especially for your pets. With August being the UK’s busiest month for house moves, now is a good time to think ahead and make the transition as smooth as possible for your faithful friends.

Our vets in Glasgow have shared tips to help you prepare below, but don’t hesitate to call us for more tailored support. They can also talk to you about whether using a calming pet plug-in at least a month before your big move could help your pet keep calm.

Get in touch

 

The Avenues Vets’ 5 top tips for calm pets during house moves

1. Keep routines consistent

The Avenues Vets’ vets reveal that pets feel safest when their day-to-day routine stays the same. In the lead-up to your move, try to feed them, walk them, and settle them for the night at the usual times. Even if boxes are piling up around them, this predictability helps reduce anxiety.

Play sessions are important for reducing anxiety and keeping things normal too; our team encourage you to throw a ball or dangle a feather teaser toy in between the maze of boxes!

2. Prepare a safe travel plan

Whether your pet is travelling in a carrier, crate or car seat harness, our vets in Glasgow advise that it’s important make sure they’re comfortable and secure. Dogs and cats may benefit from short trial runs before moving day, especially if they don’t travel often. For smaller pets like rabbits or guinea pigs, make sure carriers are well-ventilated and shaded from heat.

3. Set up a quiet space on arrival

Unpacking can be chaotic. Our vets at Avenues Vets suggest creating a calm, enclosed area for your pet with familiar blankets, toys, and their usual food and water bowls. For cats, it’s usually best to keep them indoors for at least two weeks while they adjust to their new surroundings.

4. Let them explore gradually

Allow your pet to explore the new space at their own pace. Start with one room and slowly open up access as they grow in confidence. Cats, in particular, will appreciate this steady approach – rushing can cause stress or lead them to try to escape.

5. Don’t forget registration and microchips

Once you’re settled, remember to update your pet’s microchip details with your new address. You’ll also want to register with your new local vet or update your details if you’re staying with Avenues Vets.

Need help preparing for the move? Get in touch with our experienced vets in Glasgow if you’d like advice tailored to your pet’s needs – and ask about calming products for dogs and cats if your think your pet will be particularly anxious.

We’re here to help

 

Are You a Dog Person, Prefer Cats, or Something Else?

Choosing the right pet is about more than cuteness (though that certainly helps). The best pet for you will fit your lifestyle in, personality and daily routine in Lanarkshire. So, are you a dog person, a cat person, or would another animal be a better match?

Need a second opinion? Our team are always on hand to offer advice, so don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Contact us for advice on new pets

And don’t forget to register your new pet with us at Avenues Vets.

 

Dogs: Loyal companions who love your company

Dogs tend to suit people who:

  • Enjoy outdoor walks around Lanarkshire (in all weathers)
  • Are home regularly or can make time for play and attention
  • Don’t mind a bit of training and routine
  • Have enough space for a lively tail-wagger

If you’re looking for a sociable, active companion and have time to invest in their care, The Avenues Vets’ team believe that a dog might be the perfect match.

Cats: Independent but affectionate housemates

Cats are a good fit for those who:

  • Prefer a more low-maintenance pet
  • Are out during the day but around in the mornings or evenings
  • Appreciate quiet companionship
  • Live in a smaller space, like a flat (indoor cats only) in Glasgow

While some cats are incredibly affectionate, they’re often on their own schedule – perfect if you like your space too.

Could another pet be a better fit?

If dogs and cats don’t quite match your routine, don’t worry as there are plenty of other pets to consider:

  • Rabbits or guinea pigs – The Avenues Vets’ team say they are great for quieter homes, especially with older children
  • Fancy rats – Sociable, clever and fun to interact with
  • Hamsters – Independent, nocturnal and good for those with limited space
  • Fish or reptiles – Calmer to watch and care for, with different types suited to different experience levels

Some pets are more hands-on than others and each one has unique care needs.

Still not sure?

There’s no one right answer, it’s all about finding a pet that fits into your world and brings you joy. Take your time, ask questions and think about the long term. Once you’ve decided on your furry companion, register your new pet with us at Avenues Vets.

Contact us for tailored advice if you’re considering a new pet. We’re happy to chat about what might suit your lifestyle and help you make the best choice for you, and them.

Contact us for advice on new pets

 

Keeping Rabbits, Guinea Pigs & Small Pets Cool in Hot Weather

Small pets like rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, fancy rats and mice are more sensitive to heat than many people realise. A few simple housing adjustments can help keep them safe and comfortable as temperatures rise this summer in Lanarkshire.

Worried about how your pet is coping in the heat? Ask us for specific advice for your small furry friend, we’re happy to help. 

Ask us for tailored advice for your pet

 

How to keep small pets cool in summer

Keep them out of the sun

Direct sunlight can quickly overheat a hutch or cage, so move enclosures into shaded areas or cover runs with shade cloth or tarpaulin. Indoors, avoid placing cages near sunny windows as a little morning sun can turn into a heat trap by lunchtime.

Let the air flow

Our vets advise that good ventilation is key in warm weather. For outdoor pets, mesh panels improve airflow but just ensure they’re secure from predators in the area. Indoors, open windows, if possible (avoiding strong draughts), or use a fan nearby to help air circulate. Never point a fan directly into the cage.

Cool-down ideas

These tricks from our team in Glasgow will help your small pets regulate their body temperature:

  • Place a frozen water bottle wrapped in a towel in the hutch or cage
  • Spray a fine mist of cool water on your rabbit’s ears to help them cool down
  • Add a flat ceramic tile or marble slab for them to lie on
  • Offer fresh, cool drinking water at all times and check bottles haven’t clogged

Adjust bedding for the season

Our vets at Avenues Vets explain that thick hay and straw bedding may need thinning out in hot weather. Too much insulation can trap heat, so offer lighter bedding or switch to something more breathable like shredded paper or vet bedding. However, remember that temperatures can drop significantly at night, so, leaving a small amount of extra bedding to one side in the cage may be a good option. Remember to change all bedding regularly to avoid problems with flies.

Spotting signs of overheating

Our vets at Avenues Vets advise pet owners to remain alert for signs of heat stress, which can be life-threatening:

  • Lethargy or weakness
  • Panting or open-mouthed breathing
  • Drooling or lying stretched out
  • Poor appetite or sudden behaviour changes

If you spot any of these, call our vet practice in Glasgow on 0141 643 0404 urgently.

Every species and every setup are different. What works for one pet might not suit another, so don’t hesitate to reach out to our veterinary team at Avenues Vets if you need help tailoring their care. 

Ask us for tailored advice for your pet

 

The Avenues Vets’ Nurses Share Tips on Better Grooming

Regular grooming isn’t just about keeping your pet looking their best – it’s essential for their health and wellbeing. Whether you have a dog, cat, rabbit, or guinea pig, learning the right techniques will make grooming easier and more enjoyable for both of you.

The Avenues Vets’ nurses have lots of experience with pet grooming and this Veterinary Nursing Awareness Month, they´re sharing some tips below. If you´d like to learn more about grooming your furry friend then you can book a chat with them.

Book a pet grooming demo 

 

How to Get Better at Pet Grooming

Our veterinary nurses in Glasgow explain that different pets have different grooming needs, so choosing the right tools and learning what’s best for your individual pet are key.

Brushing

  • Dogs & cats: A slicker brush may help to remove loose hair in some breeds, while a comb can be good for tackling tangles. Long-haired breeds may need de-matting tools, which are best handled by the professionals.
  • Rabbits & guinea pigs: A soft-bristle brush or small animal comb is gentle on their delicate fur.
  • Using the right amount of pressure is crucial. Too much can cause discomfort, while too little may not be effective.
  • Always brush in the direction of hair growth and use slow, steady strokes to avoid pulling.
  • Not all pets will tolerate brushing, be aware of how your pet is feeling and stop if they are uncomfortable.

Ask us for tailored advice on how best to care for your pet’s individual coat type and delicate skin. 

Washing

  • Don’t wash too often: Dogs shouldn’t be washed too often in order to avoid losing the natural oils in their coat.
  • Shampooing: Choose a gentle, pet-friendly shampoo and remember to wash behind their ears and inside their toes.
  • Using a hair dryer: If using a hair dryer on your dog, keep on a low noise and low heat setting and ensure your dog is happy. Use with the utmost care as your dog’s skin is sensitive – use the cool or lowest warm setting.
  • Washing cats: If your cat hates water avoid bathing them and if they get really dirty or need pollen removing, you can gently wipe them with a cloth.
  • Washing small furries: Small furry pets should only have a gentle ‘butt bath’ if they are struggling to keep themselves clean. If they are, contact us straight away as this could lead to a bigger health issue for them.

Cutting hair

  • Use the right equipment: Invest in high-quality, pet-specific grooming tools. Clippers with adjustable blades, rounded-tip scissors and grooming combs are essential for safe and effective coat trimming.
  • Keep your pet comfortable: Before starting, allow your pet time to relax and acclimatise to the grooming area. Never attempt to trim your pet’s coat if they are overly anxious or agitated, as sudden movements may lead to accidental injury.
  • Keep your pet comfortable: Avoid trimming sensitive areas such as around the eyes, ears, or paws unless you are confident and experienced. If your pet has a matted coat or you’re uncertain how to proceed safely, it’s best to seek assistance from our vets at Avenues Vets.

More grooming advice

  • Nail clippers: Pets need regular nail trims to prevent discomfort and mobility issues.
  • Pet-friendly wipes: Useful for cleaning around the face, ears, and paws.

Our veterinary nurses at Avenues Vets advise choosing a time when your pet is calm and relaxed, such as after a meal or play session. Grooming when they’re already restless can make the experience stressful for both of you. Pets can’t tell us when something is wrong, so it’s important to watch their body language. Signs of discomfort include:

  • Flattened ears or flicking tail (cats)
  • Lip licking or yawning (dogs)
  • Squirming or tensing up (rabbits & guinea pigs)
  • Trying to escape or vocalising

Our Glasgow nurses advise that if your pet shows signs of distress, take a break and try again later. Start with short grooming sessions and reward your pet with treats or praise. The more positive the experience, the easier it will be next time.

If you’re unsure about grooming techniques or your pet isn’t cooperating, we’re here to help. Call us on 0141 643 0404 to arrange an appointment at our vet practice in Glasgow and our veterinary nurses can offer hands-on guidance and recommend the best products for your pet’s coat type.

Book a pet grooming demo with our nurses 

 

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