Bored Cats? Easy Summer Enrichment from Northlands
When the sun is out in Northamptonshire, many of us spend more time outdoors enjoying the warmer weather. For indoor cats, however, this can mean longer periods at home alone. Many owners ask our veterinary team at Northlands how to recognise boredom in cats and what they can do to provide the right enrichment.
In the article below, our vets in Northampton, shares simple, fun enrichment ideas to keep your cat happy and stimulated all summer long. Have a health query? Book your cat’s check-up today.
Book a check-up to get tailored advice
Is my cat bored?
Our veterinary team at Northlands explain that while cats are often seen as independent pets, they still need mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy. When left alone for long periods, especially during the summer when routines change, boredom can set in.
Some subtle signs can include:
- Sleeping more than usual or seeming withdrawn
- Overgrooming or excessive licking
- Destructive behaviour, such as scratching furniture
- Increased vocalisation or attention-seeking
- Weight gain due to inactivity
- Becoming less engaged with their surroundings or losing interest in toys they once enjoyed.
If you notice these signs, it may be time to introduce more cat enrichment ideas into their daily routine.
’Cattifying’ your home
Our veterinary team in Northampton explains that the first step to keeping your cats happy is to ‘cattify’ your space. This means designing it in a way that supports your cat’s natural behaviours, such as climbing, scratching and playing. Cats value autonomy, so giving them access to different heights, spaces and private areas can make a real difference to their wellbeing. This is especially important in multi-cat households, where providing enough territory can help reduce tension.
Here is our cattification checklist at Northlands:
- Vertical space – Provide shelves, cat trees or perches for climbing and resting
- Scratching areas – Provide posts or mats to support natural scratching.
- Hiding spots – Create quiet spaces like boxes, tunnels or covered beds.
- Multiple resources – Provide enough food bowls, litter trays and beds, especially in multi-cat homes.
- Window views – Position resting areas near windows for visual stimulation, ensuring windows are safely closed or on the latch.
- Safe outdoor access – If possible, consider a secure catio – an enclosed outdoor space that allows your cat to enjoy fresh air and outdoor sights safely.
Cat enrichment ideas
Cat enrichment doesn’t need to involve elaborate or expensive gadgets. Many owners relate to buying a new cat toy, only for their cat to enjoy the box more than the toy itself! The team at Northlands suggest these easy cat enrichment ideas:
- DIY treat box – Poke holes in a cardboard box and hide treats inside for your cat to discover.
- Paper sock toy – Stuff a sock with scrunched paper for a lightweight toy your cat can bat or ‘bunny kick.’
- Ribbon play – Tie ribbons or fabric strips to safe, fixed areas.
- Toy rotation – Swap toys in and out every few days to keep them feeling new and interesting.
- Puzzle feeders – Use or make simple food puzzles to encourage natural foraging behaviour.
- Cardboard hideouts – Repurpose boxes into tunnels or hiding spots for exploration and comfort.
- Interactive play – Use wand toys or string toys to mimic prey and encourage active play sessions.
Our team at Northlands highlight that when we welcome a cat into our home, supporting their natural behaviours and biological needs is key to their wellbeing. If you want tailored advice on your cat’s behaviours, get in touch with our friendly team.
Summer Enrichment Ideas for Indoor Cats
When the sun is out in Northamptonshire, many of us spend more time outdoors enjoying the warmer weather. For indoor cats, however, this can mean longer periods at home alone. Many owners ask our veterinary team at Northlands Cat & Rabbit Care Clinic how to recognise boredom in cats and what they can do to provide the right enrichment.
In the article below, our vets in Northampton, shares simple, fun enrichment ideas to keep your cat happy and stimulated all summer long. Have a health query? Book your cat’s check-up today.
Book a check-up to get tailored advice
Is my cat bored?
Our veterinary team at Northlands Cat & Rabbit Care Clinic explain that while cats are often seen as independent pets, they still need mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy. When left alone for long periods, especially during the summer when routines change, boredom can set in.
Some subtle signs can include:
- Sleeping more than usual or seeming withdrawn
- Overgrooming or excessive licking
- Destructive behaviour, such as scratching furniture
- Increased vocalisation or attention-seeking
- Weight gain due to inactivity
- Becoming less engaged with their surroundings or losing interest in toys they once enjoyed.
If you notice these signs, it may be time to introduce more cat enrichment ideas into their daily routine.
’Cattifying’ your home
Our veterinary team in Northampton explains that the first step to keeping your cats happy is to ‘cattify’ your space. This means designing it in a way that supports your cat’s natural behaviours, such as climbing, scratching and playing. Cats value autonomy, so giving them access to different heights, spaces and private areas can make a real difference to their wellbeing. This is especially important in multi-cat households, where providing enough territory can help reduce tension.
Here is our cattification checklist at Northlands Cat & Rabbit Care Clinic:
- Vertical space – Provide shelves, cat trees or perches for climbing and resting
- Scratching areas – Provide posts or mats to support natural scratching.
- Hiding spots – Create quiet spaces like boxes, tunnels or covered beds.
- Multiple resources – Provide enough food bowls, litter trays and beds, especially in multi-cat homes.
- Window views – Position resting areas near windows for visual stimulation, ensuring windows are safely closed or on the latch.
- Safe outdoor access – If possible, consider a secure catio – an enclosed outdoor space that allows your cat to enjoy fresh air and outdoor sights safely.
Cat enrichment ideas
Cat enrichment doesn’t need to involve elaborate or expensive gadgets. Many owners relate to buying a new cat toy, only for their cat to enjoy the box more than the toy itself! The team at Northlands Cat & Rabbit Care Clinic suggest these easy cat enrichment ideas:
- DIY treat box – Poke holes in a cardboard box and hide treats inside for your cat to discover.
- Paper sock toy – Stuff a sock with scrunched paper for a lightweight toy your cat can bat or ‘bunny kick.’
- Ribbon play – Tie ribbons or fabric strips to safe, fixed areas.
- Toy rotation – Swap toys in and out every few days to keep them feeling new and interesting.
- Puzzle feeders – Use or make simple food puzzles to encourage natural foraging behaviour.
- Cardboard hideouts – Repurpose boxes into tunnels or hiding spots for exploration and comfort.
- Interactive play – Use wand toys or string toys to mimic prey and encourage active play sessions.
Our team at Northlands Cat & Rabbit Care Clinic highlight that when we welcome a cat into our home, supporting their natural behaviours and biological needs is key to their wellbeing. If you want tailored advice on your cat’s behaviours, get in touch with our friendly team.
Keeping Your Pet Safe During BBQ Season
Ah, the sizzle of sausages, the aroma of burgers on the grill… there’s nothing quite like a summer barbecue with friends and family. But while we humans may be drooling over the delicious delights cooking up, let’s not forget about our furry friends who are eager to join in on the fun.
To ensure a paw-some barbecue experience for everyone, here are some top tips from our team at Northlands, to keep your pets safe and happy around the grill. And just in case you need it, here is the emergency number for our vets in Kettering – 01536 485543.
See our contact and emergency information
How to grill & chill this summer
If you know your pets will be into everything, it may be wise to keep them indoors, but if your pets can handle your ‘BBQ rules’, here are the top tips from our team in Kettering for how to ‘Grill & Chill’:
Create a ‘Safe Zone’
First things first, at Northlands, we recommend establishing a designated ‘pet zone’ away from the grill and cooking area. Set up a shady spot with water bowls and comfy bedding where pets can stay cool while you flip the burgers. Portable pet pens are handy for this.
Keep an Eye on Pets
Naturally, the sight & smell of food cooking on the grill will tempt pets to investigate. To prevent them from getting too close to the grill or attempting to steal barbecue food, keep a close eye on them or put someone on ‘grill guard duty’ to steer roaming pets away to safety.
Beware of Hot Surfaces
Grills can reach scorching temperatures that pose a burn risk to curious noses and paws, long after cooking has finished. Try using a grill cover or barrier to prevent pets from accessing the grill area altogether to avoid accidental burns and have a plan for hot ash afterwards – see our emergency information.
Pet-safe Barbecue Foods
While it’s tempting to share your barbecue feast with your furry pals, not all barbecue foods are safe for pets. Avoid giving them toxic or harmful foods like onions, garlic, grapes, chocolate, chicken bones, corn on the cob, and foods high in salt, spices, fatty juices, or sugar. Stick to pet-safe treats like plain grilled chicken or lean meat without seasoning. Consider grilling apple, mango, or cucumber for a tasty BBQ treat, if your pet can eat them.
Watch Out for Falling Food
Accidents happen, and tasty treats may accidentally fall onto the ground. Picking up dropped food instantly will prevent pets from eating it. This is important, as some items may pose a choking hazard or cause gastrointestinal upset.
Keep Your Pets Hydrated
Provide plenty of water during the barbecue festivities for pets to drink. If they seem unwell, call our vets in Kettering on 01536 485543.
Have a Plan for Leftovers
Clearing up thoroughly straight after a BBQ is vital when you have pets. Disposing of barbecue leftovers and scraps promptly and securely will prevent dogs and cats from scavenging through the rubbish. Leftover bones, skewers, and other barbecue remnants can pose choking or gastrointestinal hazards if ingested by pets.
With these grill-tastic tips in mind, you and your furry friends can enjoy a safe and enjoyable barbecue season together in Northamptonshire. Plus, you’ll be helping to keep wildlife safe too! So, fire up the grill, gather your friends and family, and let the summer celebrations begin!
And remember, call 01536 485543 in an emergency.
School Holidays and Pets: Advice from vets in Northampton
When school holidays arrive in Northamptonshire, homes often become busier, noisier and more unpredictable, especially with younger children! While this can be a valued period of family fun, it can come with its own set of challenges, changes in routine, and extra stress for both you and your pet.
At Northlands, our veterinary team often speak to owners about how changes at home, such as children being off school, can affect pets’ behaviour and wellbeing. In this article, our veterinary team in Northampton share practical advice on helping pets adjust during the summer holidays and keeping routines as consistent as possible.
If you’re concerned about your pet’s behaviour, contact us to book a behaviour appointment.
Book a behaviour consultation today
How do school holidays affect pets?
Most pets benefit from consistent routines, with feeding, exercise and quiet rest time happening at similar times each day to help them feel settled. However, during the holidays when your routine changes, so does theirs. While for some pets, it may be exciting to have more humans around, different waking times, irregular meals and increased noise can sometimes lead to stress.
Our vets in Northampton explain that dogs may become overexcited or unsettled with extra activity, cats may withdraw or hide, and rabbits can become anxious if their environment becomes too busy or unpredictable.
Signs your pet may be stressed
At Northlands we often see that many pets are good at hiding signs of stress, so look out for:
- Withdrawing or hiding (common in cats and rabbits)
- Changes in appetite or sleep
- Increased vocalisation or attention-seeking (often in dogs or cats)
- Destructive behaviour or toileting accidents
- Signs of anxiety, such as pacing, overgrooming or thumping in rabbits
Pets stressed by children or routine changes may also become less tolerant of handling, so the team at Northlands recommend a bit of extra supervision.
Managing a pet school holiday routine
Here are some of our top tips for reducing stress in your pet for the holidays.
- Stick to feeding times: Feeding at similar times each day helps support all pets, particularly rabbits who rely on consistent digestion.
- Maintain exercise and enrichment: Dogs benefit from regular walks, while cats and rabbits benefit from daily play and stimulation.
- Protect rest time: Cats and rabbits especially benefit from quiet, undisturbed spaces to retreat to.
- Keep familiar setups: Avoid moving litter trays, hutches or sleeping areas where possible.
Encouraging positive interactions with children
Living with both pets and children can be especially lively during school holidays, and a bit of gentle guidance goes a long way in keeping things calm for everyone.
Encouraging children to be kind and attentive to a pet’s body language can help them understand when an animal is happy to play and when they might prefer a bit of quiet time.
Dogs often enjoy energetic play, though supervision can be important in busy moments. Cats may prefer space to move away or take breaks, while small pets like rabbits benefit from calm, gentle handling and being approached in a way that feels comfortable.
Our vets in Northampton recommend creating a few simple boundaries at home like giving pets space when they’re eating or resting.
By keeping a gentle eye on routine, space, and interaction, you can help your pets feel more settled even during the busy school holidays.
If you’re ever unsure about changes in your pet’s behaviour, the team at Northlands are here to help. Contact us to book a behaviour consultation.
Do Pets Need More Water During Summer?
As temperatures rise this month in Northamptonshire, keeping your pet hydrated is especially important, as pets can lose fluids quickly.
At Northlands, many owners ask us how to tell if their pet is drinking enough. That’s why our veterinary team in Kettering have put together practical advice to help you recognise when your pet needs more water so you can keep them hydrated this summer.
Worried about your pet’s fluid levels? Book a check-up today
Do pets need more water in summer?
Yes – pets lose more fluid through panting, grooming and activity due to the heat.
Our veterinary team in Kettering explain that dogs may pant more to cool down, whereas cats and small pets lose heat more passively through their skin and fur, their breathing, and the surrounding air – especially when it’s cool or moving. Some pets will naturally drink more, but others may not, which is why monitoring intake is important.
Diet also plays a role. Pets fed mainly dry food will generally need to drink more compared to those eating wet food or fresh produce, because dry diets contain very little moisture.
As a general guide, many pets will regulate their own intake if fresh water is always available. However, there are some useful ways to help.
How to keep your pet hydrated in summer
These simple steps from Northlands can help maintain good pet hydration in summer, with a few small adjustments depending on your pet:
Provide constant access to water
Water should always be available. In the Northamptonshire hot weather, pets may drink little and often, so even short periods without access can increase the risk of dehydration. For small pets, this is especially important as consistent hydration supports digestion and gut health.
Change water regularly
Changing water frequently helps keep it clean, cool and free from debris. Your pet is unlikely to be as interested in stale water, so regular refreshing can encourage better drinking habits. Bottles for small pets should also be checked to ensure they are flowing properly and at the correct height.
Offer multiple water sources around the home
Placing more than one bowl or bottle in different areas encourages drinking. Dogs and cats may be more likely to drink if water is nearby where they rest, while small pets benefit from backup sources in case one becomes empty or blocked.
Keep water in cool, shaded areas
For outdoor pets or hutches, positioning them (including water sources) in shaded areas is particularly important.
Add wet food or water-rich vegetables where appropriate
Incorporating moisture through diet can support hydration. Wet food contains a high percentage of water, while fresh vegetables can also contribute to fluid intake. You can also add a small amount of water or pet-safe broth to dry food. Our veterinary team at Northlands recommend this as a particularly helpful addition for cats, who may naturally drink less, and for rabbits and guinea pigs, who benefit from water-rich greens.
When should I be concerned?
While some variation in drinking is normal, if your pet is not drinking, seems unwell, or shows changes in behaviour, it’s best to seek advice promptly.
Smaller pets can deteriorate more quickly if hydration levels drop. If your rabbit, guinea pig or small furry has stopped drinking entirely, <a href="01536 485543“>contact us immediately.
If you’re concerned about your pet’s water intake or overall health, book an appointment with our team in Kettering today.
Northlands Cat & Rabbit Care Clinic’s Guide to Feeding Cats in Hot Weather
It’s summertime in Northamptonshire, bringing plenty of opportunities to enjoy time with your cat, along with a few seasonal changes to be aware of. You may have noticed recently that your cat is eating less than usual, and you’re not alone.
At Northlands Cat & Rabbit Care Clinic, we understand that changes in your cat’s appetite may be concerning, but our team are here to explain why this can be more common in hot weather and when to seek veterinary care.
If you would like tailored advice on your cat’s diet, book an appointment today.
Do cats eat less in hot weather?
Yes, many cats do eat less during warmer weather, and in many cases, this is a normal, seasonal change. Our team in Northampton explain that as temperatures rise and activity levels change, your cat’s body naturally adapts. These environmental changes trigger hormonal responses that influence metabolism, energy use and appetite. Put simply, when it’s warmer, pets often need less energy, so they may not feel the need to eat as much.
You may also notice your cat is less active in the heat. Just like us, many animals prefer to rest and stay cool rather than move around when temperatures are high. With lower activity levels comes a reduced need for calories, and appetite often adjusts accordingly.
Appetite changes in cats
It’s common for cats to eat less in summer, as they’re often less active, so a reduced appetite can be a normal response. Indoor cats may be less affected if their environment stays cool and consistent, so any changes may be less expected.
If your pet is otherwise well, drinking normally and maintaining their weight, a slight drop in appetite is usually nothing to worry about. However, our veterinary team at Northlands Cat & Rabbit Care Clinic advise that you monitor their intake as prolonged reduced eating, especially in cats, can lead to health issues.
How can I support my cat’s appetite in the heat?
Here are our top five tips for healthy summer feeding routines at Northlands Cat & Rabbit Care Clinic:
- Keep feeding routines consistent, but if needed, adjust meal times slightly to cooler parts of the day, such as earlier morning or later evening
- Keep food fresh and remove uneaten portions promptly
- Ensure constant access to clean, fresh water
- Provide a cool, comfortable feeding area
- Avoid sudden changes to their diet
My cat is not eating; when should I be concerned?
If your cat is not eating, shows signs of lethargy, refuses water, is vomiting, or you have noticed weight loss with no obvious reason why, it is best to seek veterinary advice.
Call us on 01604 478888 or book an appointment online with our team in Northampton.
Why You Should Never Leave Your Pet in the Car
Did you know a parked car can reach internal temperatures of up to 50-60°C in summer? Even on a mild day in Northamptonshire, a car left in the sun can become dangerously hot within minutes, putting your cat or dog’s life at risk.
Below, the team at Northlands explains what every pet owner needs to know about travelling with a cat or dog, and how to keep your pet protected.
Book an appointment if you’d like tailored guidance on heat and travel safety for your pet.
Why a hot car is never safe for your pet
Our veterinary team at Northlands sees the consequences of heat-related illness every summer. Even in Northamptonshire on days that don’t feel particularly hot, the risk is very real — when outside temperatures reach just 24°C, the interior of a parked car can climb to 38°C within ten minutes.
Unlike humans, pets cannot sweat to regulate their temperature, and panting becomes far less effective in a hot, confined space. Even a quick stop at the petrol station or supermarket can quickly become dangerous.
Which pets are most at risk of overheating?
All cats and dogs are vulnerable to heat in a confined space, but some are more susceptible than others.
Older pets, overweight pets, and pets with underlying health conditions struggle to regulate their temperature and can deteriorate faster. Puppies and kittens are also at higher risk, as their bodies are less equipped to handle sudden changes in temperature.
Regardless of age, breed or health status, no pet should ever be left alone in a car. If you’d like advice on travelling safely with your pet, get in touch with our team in Kettering.
What to do if you see a pet in a hot car
The legal context
In the UK, leaving a pet in a hot car can constitute an offence under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. The RSPCA and police have the power to act if a pet is found to be suffering and owners can face prosecution.
Emergency steps for the public
As a member of the public, you do not have the right to break into a vehicle. If you believe an animal’s life is in immediate danger, please follow these steps:
- Call 999 first and note the registration plate.
- Alert nearby businesses and ask staff to make an announcement to help locate the owner.
- Stay with the pet until help arrives.
Get in touch with our team if you have any concerns about your own pet’s wellbeing following a journey.
Safer alternatives to leaving your pet in the car
The simplest solution is to leave your pet at home where possible. If they do need to travel, we recommend bringing someone along who can stay with them while you stop. For longer journeys, plan pet-friendly rest stops in advance and ensure the car is well ventilated throughout.
If travel is unavoidable, our team at Northlands can provide tailored advice on keeping your pet safe and comfortable on the road.
Northlands’s team reminds pet owners in Northamptonshire that a little planning goes a long way. Your pet’s safety is always worth the extra thought this summer.
Find out more about our services at any time.
Northampton Vets Explain Whether You Should Shave Your Cat or Dog This Summer
As the hotter months arrive in Northamptonshire, we’re all shedding layers to make the most of the sunshine — but are our furry friends feeling the heat too? Many owners wonder whether shaving or trimming their pet’s coat could help keep them cool, especially breeds or species with longer or thicker fur.
It’s a common instinct, but the answer isn’t always straightforward. Below, our veterinary team at Northlands are here to advise on when it’s appropriate to trim or groom your pet for summer, and which pets should never be shaved.
If you’re unsure about how to best keep your pet happy and healthy this summer, make an appointment for tailored advice on summer pet care.
Book a grooming consultation with our team
Summer Grooming for Cats, Dogs and Small Pets
Should I shave my dog for summer?
Our Northampton vets advise against a seasonal trim for many dog breeds, as their coats are designed to provide natural insulation, trapping cool air to keep their temperature from rising and protecting their skin.
Northlands also warns against shaving double-coated breeds, including Arctic and spitz dogs like Siberian Husky and Samoyed, herding breeds like German Shepherd, retrievers like Golden Retriever, and small breeds like Pomeranians.
However, there can be exceptions for certain breeds who have hair rather than fur, or continuously growing coats, such as the Poodle, Shih Tzu and Maltese.
If you are unsure whether it is safe to trim your dog, get in touch and our friendly team at Northlands will provide tailored advice.
Should I shave my cat for summer?
No, you should not shave your cat for summer. A cat’s coat acts as natural insulation — so removing it can increase the risk of stress, sunburn and overheating for both short and long-haired cats.
Should I shave my guinea pig or rabbit?
For small pets like rabbits and Guinea pigs, our vets in Northampton warn against shaving. Their fur helps regulate body temperature and protects their delicate skin, so removing it can lead to stress, injury, or difficulty staying warm or cool.
When is it ok to shave my pet?
There are a few exceptions where shaving may be recommended under professional guidance:
- Severe matting that can’t be safely brushed out
- Medical reasons (e.g., surgery or skin conditions)
- Elderly or overweight pets that struggle to groom themselves properly
In these cases, a vet or groomer may suggest a partial trim or targeted shave to keep the pet comfortable while protecting their skin and insulation.
Safe alternatives to keep your pet cool
Our Northampton vets recommend focusing on simple, safe ways to help your pet stay comfortable during warmer weather, without the need for shaving.
- Fresh water always available
- Shade and airflow: keep pets out of direct sun and keep their environment ventilated.
- Cool resting areas: tiles, damp towels, or cooling mats.
- Avoid peak heat: walk dogs early morning or late evening.
- Grooming instead of shaving: regular brushing to remove loose fur and prevent matting.
- Extra cooling options: cold treats or chilled veggies (species-appropriate)
Simple care and the right advice can make all the difference this summer. If you’d like to speak to our vets in Northampton about your pet’s coat, book an appointment today.
Pet Travel Checklist: Everything You Need Before You Go
Ready to head out from Northamptonshire for a well-deserved getaway? A trip can be a great way to spend quality time with your furry companion, but it’s important to make sure your pet is ready for the road.
To help you prepare, our vets at Kettering have put together the ultimate 2026 pet travel checklist. Read below about pre-travel health checks, packing lists, and managing travel stress, and determine if bringing your pet is the best choice for their comfort and wellbeing.
Before you set off, it may be best to book an appointment to ensure your pet is up-to-date with vaccinations and parasite prevention.
Book a pre-travel appointment today
Should I take my dog or cat on holiday
While many dogs thrive on new adventures, the team at Northlands suggest that for most cats, staying in the comfort of their own home with a trusted sitter is often the less stressful option, as cats are sensitive to environmental changes. If you are unsure about travelling with your cat you can always get in touch with our friendly team.
Regardless of species, always confirm that your destination is pet-friendly and free of any potential hazards before you depart. Some locations may have specific rules, so doing your homework early ensures a warm welcome for everyone.
Essential health checks
The team at Northlands recommend ensuring your pet is healthy enough for travel before any long journey. This is especially important for senior pets or those with underlying conditions.
- Do I need vaccinations to travel with my dog or cat? To ensure your pet is protected against local diseases or requirements for boarding, you should check that all boosters are up to date. This is vital if other animals are present on your journey.
- Pet microchipping requirements: It is a legal requirement for dogs and cats to be microchipped. Before you leave, double-check that your contact details are correct on the national microchip database. If your pet wanders off in an unfamiliar area and is handed in to a vet or rescue centre, accurate details give you the best chance of being reunited.
- Parasite prevention: Ticks, fleas and worms can be more prevalent in certain holiday destinations. Make sure your pet’s flea, tick, and worming treatments are current. Our vets can advise you on whether your pet would benefit from any other type of parasite protection.
If you are unsure about your pet’s vaccinations or parasite treatments, get in touch today to speak with our experts.
What to pack when travelling with your pet
Packing for your pet requires as much thought as packing for yourself. To make the journey as stress-free as possible, the Northlands team suggest including these essentials in your kit:
- Collar, lead and ID tag
- Familiar bedding
- Enough of their usual food and treats for the whole journey
- A secure travel crate or harness (appropriate for your travel destination and mode of transport)
- Waste bags and towels
- Collapsible water bowls and plenty of fresh water for the journey
- A copy of their clinical records and any current medications
- A pet-safe first aid kit for minor scrapes
- A couple of your pet’s favourite toys
While we love having our pets with us, Northlands reminds owners to consider if travel is truly the best option for their pet’s temperament and wellbeing.
Travelling abroad? Get in touch with our team well in advance of your travel dates so they can advise you on the rabies vaccination, tapeworm treatments, animal health certificates and anything else your pet will need for their destination.
If you have concerns about travel sickness or anxiety, or more specific guidance on packing, book an appointment with our friendly team in Kettering to discuss how we can help.
Can Cats, Dogs and Rabbits Get Sunburned? Northlands Explains
As the temperature rises in Northamptonshire, most of us are reaching for the SPF, but what about our furry friends? While your pet’s fur provides a level of natural protection, many owners don’t realise that pets can get sunburned too.
At Northlands, we want to ensure your companions enjoy the summer safely, so our team in Northampton has put together this guide on solar safety for cats, dogs, and rabbits.
If you are worried about your pet’s skin this summer, you can book a skin assessment with our friendly team.
Sunburn in pets: yes, it happens
Our vets in Northampton warn that pets are just as susceptible to UV damage as we are. Sunburn in pets isn’t just uncomfortable; it can lead to more serious health issues, including skin cancer if not managed correctly.
Is my pet at risk of sunburn?
While any pet can suffer in extreme heat, those with white or light-coloured coats, or very thin fur, are at the highest risk. Specifically, keep a close eye on:
- Cats: White and light-coloured cats or those with white ears and noses.
- Dogs: Breeds with short, thin coats or pale skin (like Dalmatians or Bull Terriers).
- Rabbits: Especially those with white fur and pink ears.
Vulnerable areas
Sunburn usually strikes where the skin is most exposed. the team at Northlands advises owners to pay particular attention to:
- Ear tips and noses
- The belly and inner thighs
- Pale or thin-furred patches
How to protect your pet from the sun
Keeping your pet safe during a Northamptonshire heatwave doesn’t have to be complicated. The team at Northlands suggest these simple steps:
- Pet-safe sun block: Use a waterproof, zinc-free sun cream specifically designed for pets on exposed areas like ear tips, noses and tummies.
- Seek the shade: Ensure your pet always has access to shaded areas, especially when the sun is strongest.
- Protective clothing: For dogs with very thin hair, lightweight sun-protective shirts can act as a great barrier against UV rays.
- Keep hydrated: Give your pets constant access to fresh, cool water. You can even put ice cubes in their water bowl to keep it chilled for longer.
- The “Five Second Rule”: Pavement burn risks are high in summer. If the ground is too hot for your hand to touch for five seconds, it is too hot for your pet’s paws.
- Cooling aids: Provide damp towels for your pet to lie on. This helps them regulate their body temperature.
If you have questions about pet sunburn prevention or need to top up on summer essentials, our vets are here to help. You can book a skin assessment at our Northampton practice to ensure your pet stays healthy all summer long.