Pets Q&A

A Noises that mice make can have different meanings. Some are used to communicate with other mice and are nothing to worry about. Others may be a reaction to being scared or in pain.

What seems like play to us can be quite scary for mice, so ensure, when he is out of his cage, that he has plenty of tubes and shelters that he can retreat to if he becomes afraid. Also look for other signs of possible pain, such as a hunched posture, weight loss, reduced food intake or a poorly groomed coat.

If you are uncertain, take him to see your vet. Further information can be found at www.pdsa.org.uk/mice.

Q My two guinea pigs are aggressive and their teeth chatter when they are together. How can I make them get on?

A Guinea pigs are sometimes aggressive when they live together for the first time. One may chatter its teeth towards the other, which can last for two to three hours, after which time a "pecking order" is established and things should settle down.

If it continues, or results in fighting, you could try taking them on a short car journey together in the same pet carrier. Sometimes the mild stress caused by such a journey can cause guinea pigs to "club together" and create a lasting bond.

Back home, make sure they have a large hutch and exercise run, and plenty of hiding places. Provide more than two bowls and water bottles, spaced apart.

Some will not get on, so may need to be separated to avoid injury or chronic stress.

Q My cat has just had kittens and I have noticed a hard area around her teat which appears to be painful. Is this harmless or does it need treatment?

A There may be a problem where the milk is staying in the mammary glands. This is called galactostasis and it can cause swollen, puffy teats.

Alternatively, your cat may have mastitis, which is inflammation of the mammary glands. This causes the teats to become warm and painful.

Both are conditions that need to be checked by a vet.