Pet problems

Q For the past six months my fifteen-year-old cat has been howling and meowing throughout the night.

It's disturbing the whole family. What do you suggest we do?

A There are some medical conditions which can cause a cat to vocalise more, especially at night. One possibility is an overactive thyroid gland, which can cause cats to seem hyperactive and more irritable or aggressive than usual. Another is feline dementia, similar to Alzheimer's disease in people, which can cause cats to appear confused, to vocalise more, to toilet in the house and to seem stressed at night.

Your vet can do a thorough examination and may need a blood sample to help make the diagnosis.

Q I've heard that some plants are poisonous to rabbits; which plants? Is it alright to locate a rabbit hutch close to these as long as they don't touch them?

A Rabbits benefit from a handful of fresh greens morning and evening, but some plants are poisonous to rabbits. These include foxglove, lily-of-the-valley and privet. A longer list can be found at www.pdsa.org.uk/rabbitdiet.

Q How often are dogs meant to be washed? Can you use normal human shampoo?

A Bathing a dog too frequently can remove beneficial oils from fur. They should be bathed if they get dirty with mud or urine. Other than that, a bath once a month should help keep their coat clean. Best to use dog shampoo which you can get from most pet shops.

Q Every time I get my two-year-old hamster out of his cage his eyes are stuck together. Why is this?

A Your hamster may be suffering from conjunctivitis. The eyes become inflamed and it can cause a discharge which sticks the eyelids together. A vet may prescribe medicated eye drops to treat the eye infection, and perhaps some medicine by mouth as well. Make sure the cage is cleaned out weekly, and use good quality dust-free shavings.

• Stuart McMorrow is Senior Veterinary Surgeon at Edinburgh PetAid hospital, Hutchison Crossway.