OrtonVets

12/12/2024

Today we are talking about hyperthyroidism!

What is it?
Common known as “overactive thyroid”.
It is a condition where the thyroid glands in the neck develops abnormal tissue and produces too much thyroid hormone. The cause of it is unknown but in rare cases, it can be the cause of cancer.

What are the symptoms?
As shown in the image below, increased thirst and appetite, higher irregular heart rate, weight loss, difficulty breathing as well as vomiting and diarrhoea are all symptoms. Other symptoms also include restlessness, poor coat (with possible hair loss), high blood pressure and urinating in different locations around the house which is outside out of litter tray.

How is it diagnosed?
If the vet suspects hyperthyroidism, then a blood test will be required to determine the levels of thyroid hormone.

How is it managed?
It is easily treated with a daily dose of anti-thyroid medication. This can be in the form of a tablet or liquid. This medication does not cure hyperthyroidism but it does block the excessive production of thyroid medication. This is usually life long. Other options are available which would be discussed with the veterinary surgeon at the time of diagnosis.

What happens if hyperthyroidism isn’t treated?
Hyperthyroid cats will go onto have a reduced quality of life and can result in heart failure, blindness and death.

So, if you feel your cat is displaying these symptoms, give a call to book an appointment to discuss further with our vets.

06/12/2024

❄️Winter is here ❄️

🌨️ And that means many of us are using antifreeze 🌨️

Antifreeze is extremely toxic to cats because of the main ingredient - ethylene glycol.

Here is some more information on the toxicity and how we can look after our cats as well as others:

05/12/2024

Here are our Christmas and New Year opening hours.

On Christmas Eve and New Years Eve we will be available for emergencies only.

Over Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day and nights, you will be transferred through to Vets Now.

Here are Vets Now information should it be required:

Vets Now
89-93 Park Road
Peterborough
Cambridgeshire
PE1 2TR

01733 512192

04/12/2024

Teddy, the Netherland Dwarf, came in this morning to have her nails clipped with RVN Natasha. During her visit, she sniffed around the consulting room checking everything was in order and as it should be. We think she approved as she left a very happy bunny!

Did you know that rabbits teeth and nails continue to grow throughout their lives? By keeping on top of their nail and dental care, we can ensure they able to continue hopping around and eating comfortably 🐰

Our vets and veterinary nurses are always on hand to provide more information on how to care for your pet rabbits including companionship, nutrition, exercise and general health.

03/12/2024

Brother and sister, Lemmy and Greta, visited us last week for their neutering and microchipping. They had lots of cuddles and a little bit of playtime with our nurse, Natasha.

Did you know it is now a legal requirement for cats to be microchipped? This came into effect in June and all cats, including indoor cats, must be microchipped and registered to their owners.

If your cat is not yet chipped, you can give us a call on 01733 792866 and book in with one of our veterinary nurses to get this done.

28/11/2024

Christmas is fast approaching and whilst families are getting ready for the big day and children are extremely excited for Santa’s arrival, it’s very important to keep in mind the dangers our pets are more exposed to at this time of year.

One of the biggest toxicities around Christmas time is CHOCOLATE as well as raisins and nuts. Whilst these are scrummy for ourselves and even if our pets like to eat them….. Their bodies won’t agree.

Keep chocolate baubles for the Christmas tree and advent calendars out of reach and remember, don’t leave chocolate treats underneath the tree either because we know how nosy our furry friends can be.

If you think your pet has eaten chocolate, please call us on 01733 792866 immediately and we will see you as soon as you’re here. If you can, please also provide the packaging the chocolate was in so we are able to look at the ingredients.

25/11/2024

We were lucky enough to have the company of best friends Millie and Suki on Friday.

They enjoyed lots of cuddles with our nurse, Natasha, before and after their neutering 🐾

21/11/2024

Look at these beautiful British Longhairs we had in for neutering today!

Here they are enjoying lovely cuddles and playtime with our practice manager, Alex ❤️

Do you have a British shorthair or longhair cat? If so, share your cute photos below 🐾

20/11/2024

Did you know that a recent report carried out by UK Pet Food showed that 50% of dogs and 43% of cats are classed as overweight?

Our pets being overweight can be the result of a lack of exercise, neutering status, health status as well as owner behaviours such as overfeeding or providing an unsuitable diet.

When our pets are overweight they are at a higher risk of being diagnosed as diabetic, having osteoarthritis, high blood pressure, respiratory conditions, heart disease and other organ failure (list is not exhaustive). This results in our pets having functional impairment as well as being at risk of a shorter lifespan.

You can book an appointment with one of our veterinary nurses to discuss your pets weight and make a plan, if required, by calling us on 01733 792866.

15/11/2024

November is pet diabetes month.

Did you know that current UK statistics are 1 in 300 dogs and 1 in 200 cats will be diagnosed with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes?

Like humans, type 1 diabetes is when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin whereas type 2 diabetes is when the pancreas produces enough insulin but the body does not correctly respond to it.

Type 1 diabetes is more common dogs. It sadly is not reversible and it is a lifelong condition but this doesn’t mean your pet can’t continue to live a long, happy life with treatment.

Type 2 is more common in cats and it CAN be reversed. This is called diabetic remission. This can be possible with quick, effective treatment which would be discussed with the vet at the time of your appointment.

These are just some of the signs to look out for:
🐾 Increased urination
🐾 Increased drinking & eating
🐾 Losing weight
🐾 Cloudy eyes
🐾 Often tired/lethargy
🐾 Deteriorating coat
🐾 Appearing unsteady
🐾 Vomiting and diarrhoea
🐾 Sweet smelling breath (like pear drops)
🐾 Depression
🐾 Collapsing

So how is diabetes managed?
Regular daily insulin injections may be required, a new diet, regular check with the vet and exercise. The vet would discuss a treatment plan with you as this is individual to each patient.

Diabetes can be life threatening so if you are concerned, please call us on 01733 792866 and we will book you an appointment to discuss further with our vet.

14/11/2024

Oliviya has been with us today and the team fell in love with her! ❤️

Have you got your own gorgeous cat? Share your photos below 🙂

14/11/2024

If you are coming to us for an appointment this evening, unfortunately there has been an accident on the Orton Parkway.

Clients finding it difficult to get to us, would recommend going through Orton Goldhay.

If you prefer to rebook your appointment please give us a call.

Our thoughts are with those involved.

13/11/2024

13/11/2024

Handsome Ringo has been with us today for his castration.

Here he is during his recovery having a lovely cuddle with one of our nurses, Charlie.

He’s been a pleasure to have with us today ❤️

29/10/2024

Join us in wishing the vet, George, a very happy birthday!!!🥳 🥳🥳