Dear PDSA Vet, my five-year-old ferret, Bob, seems to have lost his appetite recently. He’s also being a lot less energetic compared to his usual self. What’s up with him? Eliza

When pets lose their appetite and seem lethargic or tired, these are tell tale signs that they may be unwell. You’ll need to pay a visit to your vet so they can work out what’s wrong, they will examine him and they may need to do some tests to find out what the best treatment or advice is. As Bob isn’t wanting to eat much, try offering him his favourite foods to entice him and make sure that he’s drinking, even if you have to offer him water on a teaspoon to encourage him. If he’s feeling unwell, he may feel cold, so make sure he’s got a warm, clean, dry and comfortable bed that is not in any draughts.

Dear PDSA Vet, my Yorkshire Terrier, Tess, has recently started to cough regularly and appears to become out of breath on even the shortest of walks. What could be wrong? Trevor

I’m sorry to hear that Tess is feeling unwell, there are a number of possible causes of these symptoms. Respiratory issues in dogs are common and Yorkshire Terriers in particular can be susceptible to tracheal collapse. But there is also concern around possible heart conditions– so your vet would need to investigate. Please arrange for Tess to be seen by your vet as soon as possible. When a pet starts coughing or seems to be struggling with their normal exercise, your vet may need to do some tests to get to the bottom of the problem. The sooner your dog receives treatment, the better. For now, skip Tess’s walks and take her to the toilet in your garden until your vet feels she’s able to exercise again.

Dear PDSA Vet, my cat keeps whining when she uses the litter tray. I think she might have a urine infection. Can cats get them? And if so, how are they best treated? Cian

Cats can get bladder infections (UTIs) that make it painful for them to pee, but other causes of cystitis (bladder inflammation) such as crystals in their urine are more common. Visit your vet as soon as possible so they can confirm what the issue is and provide treatment. While antibiotics can sometimes be necessary, pain relief and a change in your pet’s diet can also help. If your cat has developed cystitis, then it can often be stress related. You can help minimize stress by using microchip recognizing cat flaps, so only your cat can enter your home, using pheromone diffusers and setting up dens for them to escape to and feel safe. For more tips go towww.pdsa.org.uk/stressincats

Dear PDSA Vet, my rabbit, Jessie, loves eating but I’ve noticed she’s starting to get a bit chubby. She has a run occasionally but doesn’t like to go out much. How can I help her slim down? Kumar

Obesity is a serious condition that can lead to health problems, so it’s really important to keep Jessie at a healthy weight. Hay is the most important part of rabbits’ diet, so this should make up most of her daily intake – she should have access to at least her body size in hay every day. Rabbits don’t need more than a tablespoon of complete rabbit nuggets per day (or morning and evening if they’re a large breed). She’ll also need a handful of rabbit-safe greens morning and evening. Jessie would likely benefit from a (neutered) rabbit friend to keep her company, who will encourage her to get moving and keep her interested. Toys also help to keep rabbits entertained and active.

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