Water Bottles vs Bowls for Rabbits and Guinea Pigs
Choosing the right water set-up for small pets is an important part of keeping them healthy and hydrated. At Northlands Cat & Rabbit Care Clinic, our vets often speak to owners who are unsure whether bottles or bowls are best for rabbits and guinea pigs.
The short answer is, both can work well, but it depends on your pet’s needs and preferences. Keep reading to find out what is best for your pet type.
If you’re unsure about your rabbit or guinea pig’s set-up, or have a concern about hydration, book an appointment with our friendly team in Northampton.
Book an appointment for tailored advice
Rabbit vs guinea pig drinking behaviour
Northlands Cat & Rabbit Care Clinic’s veterinary team highlight that rabbits and guinea pigs are prone to bladder sludge and bladder stones, so maintaining good hydration helps dilute urine, support kidney function, and reduce calcium build-up in the bladder.
Both species need constant access to fresh water, but they do not always drink in the same way. Therefore, whether you have a rabbit or a guinea pig, you should monitor their water intake closely, as their needs differ.
Rabbit drinking routines
Rabbits may drink less consistently and can obtain more moisture from fresh hay and leafy greens. However, even small reductions in drinking can become a concern, as hydration is essential for healthy digestion and gut movement. A typical domestic rabbit weighing around 2.5 kg (5.5 lbs) will usually drink between 125 and 375 ml of water per day.
Guinea pig drinking routines
Guinea pigs often drink more actively and may rely more directly on their water source. Changes in drinking habits, whether an increase or decrease, can sometimes be an early sign of dental or urinary issues. A guinea pig weighing around 1 kg (2.2 lbs) generally needs approximately 50 to 150 ml of water daily.
Bottles for rabbits and guinea pigs
Water bottles are commonly used because they help keep water clean and reduce contamination from bedding or food. They are less likely to be knocked over in busy hutches or enclosures.
However, bottles are not always perfect. Nozzles can become blocked, and some pets may struggle with low water flow. Our vets in Northampton recommend checking the nozzle regularly, especially during warmer weather when hydration needs increase.
Bowls for rabbits and guinea pigs
Water bowls offer a more natural drinking position, particularly for rabbits, as they are more likely to lap water from natural sources such as ponds or streams in the wild. They also allow pets to take in water more quickly, which can be especially helpful in hot weather when they may drink larger amounts at once.
However, bowls can become dirty more easily and may be tipped over, leading to reduced water intake if not monitored closely. Our team in Northampton suggest trying a heavy ceramic bowl as it may help reduce this risk.
Our team at Northlands Cat & Rabbit Care Clinic have asked guinea pig and rabbit owners which theirs prefers and honestly, there is no clear winner! Therefore, we advise offering both where possible, so your pet can drink in the way that feels most natural to them and monitoring intake to make sure they’re staying well hydrated.
If you’re unsure whether your pet is drinking enough, or you have noticed sudden changes in drinking, appetite, or behaviour, it is best to seek veterinary advice straight away. Call us on 01604 478888 or see Northlands Cat & Rabbit Care Clinic’s emergency information below.
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.
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.
Northampton Vets on Spotting Heat Stress in Guinea Pigs
As temperatures rise across Northampton, many of us enjoy the sunshine, but for guinea pigs, warmer weather can quickly become uncomfortable and even dangerous. These small pets are particularly sensitive to heat, so it’s important to be aware of the risks and take steps to keep them cool and comfortable.
At Northlands Cat & Rabbit Care Clinic, our veterinary team are here to help you recognise the early signs of heat stress, so you can act quickly and keep your guinea pig safe and comfortable throughout the summer. If you want advice on your guinea pig’s health, book an appointment today.
Book an appointment for tailored advice
What temperature is too hot for guinea pigs?
Guinea pigs are most comfortable between 18°C and 24°C, with low humidity ideally below 50%. The risk of heatstroke becomes high when temperatures hit 32°C. As they can’t sweat, they have very limited ways to cool down, meaning their environment can heat up quickly. Our Northamptonshire veterinary team warn that overheating can happen within minutes.
Guinea pig overheating signs
Heat stress occurs when a guinea pig’s body temperature rises beyond what it can safely control. This can happen when the surrounding environment is too warm, especially with added humidity or physical activity, making it difficult for them to cool themselves down. According to Northlands Cat & Rabbit Care Clinic, here are the signs to monitor:
Early signs:
- Lethargy or reduced activity
- Withdrawal or hiding more than usual
- Loss of appetite or refusing food
Serious symptoms (emergency):
- Rapid or laboured breathing
- Unsteady movement or stumbling
- Blue-tinged lips or tongue
- Seizures
- Collapse or unresponsiveness
If you notice any serious symptoms, seek veterinary care immediately.
Keeping guinea pigs cool in summer
Keeping your guinea pig cool during warm weather in Northamptonshire is essential, and a combination of small changes recommended by Northlands Cat & Rabbit Care Clinic’s team can make a big difference.
Hydration
Always provide plenty of fresh, cool water and check bottles regularly to ensure they’re working properly. You can also support hydration by offering water-rich vegetables like cucumber and leafy greens in moderation.
Cool resting areas
Place ceramic tiles, damp towels, or a well-wrapped frozen water bottle in their enclosure. This gives them the option to lie somewhere more comfortable without direct contact with anything too cold.
Shade and ventilation
Position their enclosure in a shaded, well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, and remember that the sun moves throughout the day. Improving airflow with open windows or a fan can help but avoid blowing air directly onto them.
What about outdoor guinea pigs?
Our vets in Northampton recommend bringing outdoor guinea pigs indoors where temperatures are more stable.
Grooming and handling
Finally, avoid handling your guinea pig during peak heat and keep up with regular grooming to prevent excess heat being trapped in their coat.
At Northlands Cat & Rabbit Care Clinic we recognise that the prospect of heat stress can be scary, but with the right precautions and awareness, you can keep your guinea pig safe, comfortable, and content all summer long.
If you’d like tailored advice or have any concerns about your pet’s wellbeing, book an appointment with our team today.
Heatstroke in Pets: Signs, Symptoms and What to Do
At last…June brings us longer days and warmer weather, perfect for dog walks around Northamptonshire and garden adventures with your pet. But as temperatures climb, so does the risk of heatstroke, and it can escalate faster than many owners realise.
Our veterinary team at Northlands will walk you through the early warning signs of heatstroke in dogs, cats, rabbits and small pets, and what to do if you’re concerned.
If you suspect your pet may be suffering from heatstroke, don’t wait, call us immediately for advice on 01536 485543.
Signs and symptoms of heatstroke in pets
Our vets at Northlands explain that the early warning signs of heatstroke can vary between species, but there are key indicators every owner should know:
Dogs and cats
- Excessive panting or difficulty breathing: heavy, laboured breathing that seems out of proportion to their activity level.
- Drooling more than usual: excessive saliva.
- Lethargy or weakness: your pet seems unusually tired, confused or unsteady on their feet.
- Increased heart rate: a fast pulse could signal overheating.
- Vomiting or diarrhoea: digestive upset can occur as the body struggles to regulate temperature.
Rabbits and small pets
Rabbits and small pets are among the most vulnerable in warm weather because they can’t pant or sweat effectively, yet they’re often the most overlooked.
- Rapid or shallow breathing: breathing changes are a serious early sign.
- Lethargy and flopping: a pet lying flat and unresponsive in the heat requires immediate attention.
- Wet nose or ears: some small pets may dampen themselves to cool down.
- Loss of appetite: small pets who suddenly stop eating in warm weather may be struggling with the heat.
What to do if you think your pet has heatstroke
If you suspect heatstroke, stay calm but act quickly. Our vets in Kettering recommend the following steps while you arrange emergency care.
- First, move your pet indoors/away from the heat source. For pets comfortable with water, you can gently pour cold (not freezing) water over their body, keeping it away from their face, nose and mouth. .
- Open windows and doors or switch on a fan or air conditioning to create a breeze and offer cold water to drink.
- Place them on top of a cold wet towel rather than wrapping them in it, as this traps heat. If you have an ice pack, wrap it in a towel and place it between their thighs (dogs), or next to or beneath smaller pets.
- Our vets at Northlands stress that even if your pet seems to be recovering, always call us straight away.
While the idea of heatstroke can be scary, knowing the signs and what to do could make all the difference for your pet this summer in Northamptonshire. If you’d like peace of mind, book a summer health check with our team today.
Essential Flystrike Advice for Rabbits & Guinea Pigs
Flystrike (myiasis) is one of the most serious summer risks for rabbits and guinea pigs around Northamptonshire. During warm, humid weather, blowflies can lay eggs on your pet’s fur, often around the rear end. These eggs hatch into maggots that burrow into the skin, causing severe pain, shock and potentially fatal infection. This can all happen in under 12 hours, making flystrike a serious threat to small pet health.
Prevention is always better than emergency treatment. Flystrike should never be a reactive issue—it requires daily vigilance. In the article below, our vets in Northampton explain how to prepare and protect your pet.
Book an appointment for tailored advice from our team at Northlands Cat & Rabbit Care Clinic to ensure your small pet is fully protected this summer.
Flystrike advice for rabbits & guinea pigs
A zero-tolerance approach to flies
Your flystrike prevention protocol should include:
- Twice-daily rear-end checks (morning and evening), looking for damp fur, soiling, redness or small white eggs.
- Meticulous hygiene: Remove soiled bedding daily and deep-clean hutches regularly.
- Diet management: Prevent digestive upsets that cause soft stools, which attract flies.
- Topical preventative treatments: Ask our vets at Northlands Cat & Rabbit Care Clinic about the best option for your pets.
How topical prevention works
Modern topical treatments prescribed by our vets in Northampton are not simple repellents. They are insect growth regulators (IGRs).
- Application: A liquid is applied to the fur around the rear, hips and underbelly.
- Mechanism: If a blowfly lays eggs, the treatment prevents them from developing into damaging larvae.
- Duration: One application typically protects for 8–10 weeks, covering peak UK fly season.
With British summers becoming warmer and more humid, blowfly populations are appearing earlier and remaining active longer. Topical prevention acts as a vital safety net, but it is not a substitute for hygiene. Even treated pets must still have daily hutch cleaning and twice-daily checks.
Call us on 01604 478888 to seek prompt advice from our vets if you spot any signs of infestation.
Hidden risks
Even a seemingly clean rabbit can be targeted if they have a minor digestive upset, urinary leakage, obesity (making grooming difficult), or small skin folds. Guinea pigs are also vulnerable, particularly long-haired breeds.
A critical safety warning
Our team at Northlands Cat & Rabbit Care Clinic warns never to use flea treatments designed for dogs or cats on rabbits or guinea pigs. Some common ingredients are highly toxic to small mammals. Always use a vet-prescribed product licensed specifically for them.
Flystrike is one of the most important, yet often overlooked, summer health risks for small furries in Northamptonshire. With a strict prevention plan, you can dramatically reduce the risk and protect your pet from a life-threatening emergency.
If you would like personalised guidance on hygiene, weight management or preventative treatments, book an appointment at Northlands Cat & Rabbit Care Clinic today.
Book an appointment for tailored advice
Looking for more advice on caring for your small furry pet? Be sure to check our other articles for tips from our vets in Northampton.
Hoppy & Healthy: Preparing for Spring With Northlands Cat & Rabbit Care Clinic
Spring has arrived, and with it comes the perfect opportunity for rabbits, guinea pigs and other small furries to enjoy safe time outdoors. Fresh air, natural sunlight and new scents provide wonderful enrichment, supporting both physical health and mental wellbeing.
With a little planning, you can help your pet transition smoothly into their garden adventures. Read Northlands Cat & Rabbit Care Clinic’s tips below on creating the ideal small pet spring setup and book a check-up to make sure they’re fit for time outdoors.
The ideal spring setup for small pets
A secure and stimulating run
Our vets at Northlands Cat & Rabbit Care Clinic confirm that the ideal outdoor setup starts with safety and stimulation. Choose a sturdy run with secure mesh and a solid frame to prevent escapes. A covered section provides essential shade and shelter, while a predator-proof base offers peace of mind.
Inside the run, think enrichment. Tunnels, hide boxes, raised platforms and safe chew toys encourage natural behaviours such as exploring, foraging and grazing. Rotating items will keep the environment interesting and prevent boredom. The goal is not just space – but meaningful, active space.
Introducing fresh grass the right way
After winter living indoors or on limited grazing, fresh grass should be introduced gradually. Sudden access to large quantities can upset sensitive digestive systems. At Northlands Cat & Rabbit Care Clinic we recommend short, supervised sessions to start and to increase time outdoors slowly over one to two weeks. Hay should remain the mainstay of the diet to keep the gut healthy and moving well.
Their all-access pass to sunshine
Preventative healthcare is what makes spring freedom possible. For rabbits, vaccination against RHD2 and Myxomatosis acts as their all-access pass to outdoor life. These serious diseases remain present in the UK, and protection ensures they can enjoy the garden safely. Contact us for a tailored discussion about vaccinations for your pet.
As temperatures rise, flystrike prevention is also key. Warmer weather in Northamptonshire increases risk, so proactive protection allows your pet to stay comfortable while they play.
Make this their best season yet
A well-planned spring setup promotes confidence, exercise and happiness. If you’re preparing for garden time, now is the perfect moment to review your pet’s health and preventative care.
Book an appointment with our vets at Northlands Cat & Rabbit Care Clinic to arrange their vaccinations, discuss flystrike protection and receive tailored advice on creating the ideal outdoor environment. Let’s make this their most comfortable and active season yet.
Calm Vet Visits: Working Together With You
For some pets, a trip to our veterinary practice in Kettering can feel overwhelming. New smells, unfamiliar sounds and travel in the car can all trigger anxiety. The good news is that vet visits don’t have to be stressful, and creating a calmer experience is something we work on together.
At Northlands, we prioritise a low-stress environment. Wherever possible, we provide pet-specific seating areas to prevent sensory overload and minimise close contact with other animals. Below, our vets in Kettering have also put together some tips for calming your pet before their visit. Have a read and don’t hesitate to contact us for more advice.
Ask us for tailored advice for nervous pets
Happy vet visits: how we work together
Our team at Northlands are trained in gentle handling techniques and using positive reinforcement throughout the examination, allowing pets time to settle. We can also use calming pheromone diffusers, such as Feliway for cats and Adaptil for dogs, to help reduce anxiety in waiting and consulting areas.
Why does this matter? Because a relaxed pet isn’t just happier — they’re easier to examine thoroughly and accurately. Reduced stress means more reliable heart rates, better abdominal palpation and a more positive association with future visits. That leads to better preventative care from our vets and earlier detection of problems.
There’s plenty you can do at home to help too.
Pre-visit checklist
The ‘practice run’
Help your pet feel comfortable with their carrier, crate or car harness well before your appointment at Northlands:
- Leave carriers out at home with cosy bedding, toys and even some treats inside.
- Reward your pet for calmly going in and out.
- Short, positive car journeys that don’t end at the vet can also reduce travel anxiety.
Touch training
In a relaxed setting, gently handle your pet’s paws, ears and mouth, rewarding calm behaviour with praise or treats. This helps desensitise them to the type of gentle handling they’ll experience during an examination by our vets in Kettering.
The hunger factor
If appropriate, bring your pet’s favourite high value treats to your appointment. Special rewards they don’t usually get can help build positive associations with the clinic environment.
If your pet is particularly nervous, we can help further. We offer ‘happy visits’ – short, pressure-free trips to our Kettering veterinary practice – where pets can explore, receive treats and leave without a medical procedure.
Ask us about tailored advice for nervous pets or book a pre-visit chat with one of our nurses to create a bespoke plan. Working together, we can make vet visits a calmer, more positive experience for everyone.
Contact us for tailored advice
Why a Spring Check-up is Important for Pets in Northamptonshire
With the days growing longer and the weather finally turning in Northamptonshire, most pets are naturally eager to get back outside but before the fun really begins, it’s worth making sure your pet’s body is ready to keep up.
Read our article on how to help your pet enjoy the season comfortably, confidently and at their best. Then, book a wellness check with our veterinary team at Northlands.
Plus, download our spring pet tips for extra advice!
Get your pet fit for spring: why a wellness check matters
Over the winter months in Northamptonshire, many UK pets quietly put on a little extra weight or become stiffer, particularly during the cold, damp days of January and February. Older pets may move more slowly, while younger ones can mask small aches or niggles that only become obvious once activity levels increase. Our vets explain that left unchecked, these minor issues can turn into bigger problems and put a dampener on your spring plans.
A spring wellness check allows our vets in Kettering to assess your pet’s overall health, focusing on areas that matter most as exercise increases. We’ll look at heart health, joint mobility and body condition, making sure your pet is comfortable, fit and ready for the season ahead.
Northlands Kettering’s team shares how catching subtle changes early means our team can offer immediate support – whether that’s lifestyle advice, weight management or joint care – before discomfort sets in.
Preventative care is also an important part of spring preparation. As pets spend more time outdoors, the risk of parasites increases. A wellness check is the perfect opportunity to review worming, flea and tick protection, ensuring your pet is fully covered before parasites become more active. You can then continue to order your tick medication via our website.
Our vets in Kettering can also check that vaccinations are up to date, helping protect against preventable diseases as social interactions and outdoor exposure increase.
Think of a spring wellness check as a seasonal MOT for your pet — a chance to spot small issues early, support long-term health and give you peace of mind as you head into a more active time of year.
Book a spring wellness check today
Before you go, remember to download our spring pet tips for even more seasonal advice!
Rabbits and Guinea Pigs: Preparing Outdoor Setups for Warmer Days
As the weather warms up, many owners start thinking about moving rabbits and guinea pigs into outdoor runs or spending more time outside. Fresh air and natural light can be wonderful for small pets, but the transition needs to be handled carefully to keep them safe, comfortable and healthy.
Below, our vets at Northlands Cat & Rabbit Care Clinic have prepared a guide to transitioning your pet to life outdoors. Before making the move, book a wellness check and get specific advice for the health and welfare of your pet.
Rabbits and guinea pigs: preparing outdoor setups for warmer days
A gentle transition is key
If your rabbits or guinea pigs have been indoors over winter, our vets in Northampton suggest introducing outdoor time gradually. Sudden changes in temperature, wind or damp conditions can be stressful. Always provide shaded areas, dry bedding and a secure shelter so your pets can move in and out of the run as they choose.
Flystrike prevention
Warmer weather in Northamptonshire increases the risk of flystrike, particularly for rabbits. Flies are attracted to soiled fur or damp areas and can lay eggs that hatch into maggots within hours. Regular health checks with our vets at Northlands Cat & Rabbit Care Clinic, daily cleaning of hutches and careful monitoring of your pet’s rear end are essential. You can also add a fly screen or netting for further protection. Guinea pigs are at risk too, but rabbits produce soft caecotrophs which are very sticky and pungent—a primary “fly magnet.”
Book an appointment and speak to our vets about preventive products and what signs to watch for — early action can be life-saving.
Call us on 01604 478888 and we’ll be happy to help.
Vaccinations for rabbits
Rabbits living outdoors across Northamptonshire should be fully protected against serious viral diseases such as Myxomatosis and Rabbit Viral Haemorrhagic Disease (RVHD1 and RVHD2).
These viruses can easily enter your garden via:
- Biting insects: Mosquitoes, midges, and fleas can fly or hop over fences.
- Contaminated footwear: Virus particles can hitch a ride on the soles of your shoes.
- Bird or wildlife droppings: Passing animals can leave traces of infection behind.
Keeping vaccinations up to date is the most effective way to ensure your rabbit is protected against these invisible threats as they enjoy the outdoors in Northamptonshire.
Predator-proofing outdoor spaces
Foxes, birds of prey, cats and even dogs can pose a threat. Runs should have secure mesh on all sides, including the roof and base, with no gaps or weak points. Hutches and runs should be sturdy, lockable and placed on solid ground to prevent digging underneath. Remember – feeling safe is just as important as being safe.
Daily checks make a big difference
Regular handling allows you to spot subtle changes in behaviour, appetite or movement. Catching problems early helps keep outdoor living enjoyable rather than risky. Preparing properly now means your rabbits and guinea pigs can enjoy the warmer months safely and comfortably.
It is a common myth that indoor pets are safe from these threats. Flies, biting insects, and virus particles can easily enter your home through open windows or on your clothing, meaning indoor rabbits and guinea pigs require the same level of protection as those living outside.
Book a wellness check for your rabbits or guinea pigs with our veterinary team at Northlands Cat & Rabbit Care Clinic to get tailored advice and best-practice guidance for living well this season.