Latest news with #RebeccaMacMillan
Daily Record
4 hours ago
- Health
- Daily Record
'I'm a vet - you should leave your dirty laundry behind for your pet when you travel'
If you're pet can't make it on this year's holiday, this tip can help their well-being Many Scots heading on holidays this summer will want to leave the house spick and span for their return. After all, deep cleaning the house means you don't need to worry about catching up on chores straight off the plane. However, pet owners should maybe think twice about leaving no mess behind them before they leave for the airport. In fact, vets have issued surprising advice for dog and cat parents - leave your dirty laundry behind. As 36 per cent of Brits say they're planning more holidays in 2025 than last year, owners are already counting down to their getaways. But what if the key to a calm pet while you're away is leaving your house a little messy? New research from TrustedHousesitters reveals that more than half of UK pet owners worry their pets feel abandoned when they travel. But vets say small steps – like leaving familiar smells around the home – can make a surprisingly big difference to pets' happiness and wellbeing. "Everyone likes their home comforts - pets included," Dr Rebecca MacMillan explains. "Pets thrive on familiarity and routine; it helps them to feel secure. Staying in an environment where they already feel safe will often mean they cope better when their owner is gone." Dr MacMillan adds that pets take comfort from having the smell of their owner around, plus their own pheromones which they will have marked around the home. "Even small sounds like the ticking of the kitchen clock or hearing the hum of the boiler starting up in the morning will be cues that your pet associates with their home," she went on. "Owners should still leave a clean, welcoming home for any sitter, family, or friend coming to watch pets. But when it comes to helping furry friends feel secure, leaving a few familiar items with your scent can make a big difference." Vet-approved ways to help your pet stay happy while you travel Dr MacMillan recommends these simple yet effective approaches for pet owners heading off on holiday. Don't deep clean before you go "Consider leaving a couple of items of clothing that you have worn for them to smell and snuggle with," Dr MacMillan explained. "This will help them to feel comforted in your absence." "Leaving your pet's bedding, toys, and even some clothes destined for the laundry basket around can help them feel connected to you." Keep routines as normal as possible Ask your sitter to stick to your pet's usual feeding times, walk times, and sleep schedule. "Keeping your pet in a routine as close to their normal one as possible will help them to feel more settled," advises Dr MacMillan. Use calming aids if needed Consider using a synthetic pet pheromone product to help act as an additional calming agent in their environment. "Plug-in diffusers are available, or you could use an impregnated collar or food supplement," suggests Dr MacMillan. If adding to your pet's diet, make sure to consult your vet first. Brief your sitter properly "Leave your sitter with plenty of instructions so that they understand your pet's daily schedule, likes and dislikes," says Dr MacMillan. "Creating a simple welcome guide with all essential information helps your sitter provide the best care possible. Include emergency contact numbers and your pet's medication schedule if applicable. "Feeding instructions, and notes about your pet's favourite spots, habits and any little quirks that make a difference day-to-day should also be noted." Minimise disruption Try not to make big changes like moving furniture or changing pet beds right before you leave. "Even if it feels messy to you, it'll likely be comforting for your pet until you return," Dr MacMillan added. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'.
Yahoo
4 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
This American cat breed will ‘slot in well to most homes' and can be found in 80 color combinations
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. American Shorthair overview Other names: Domestic shorthair (although they are not the same) Life expectancy: 15-20 years Size: Between 6–15 lb in weight and up to 12–15 inches in length Coat: Tabby, solid, or tortoiseshell, and comes in black, brown, red, cream or silver Eye colour: Gold, green or hazel Temperament: Gentle, companionable, robust, quiet and playful Origin/native country: North America American Shorthair cats are up there for being one of the oldest cat breeds in the United States. It's believed that British Shorthairs were used to breed American Shorthair cats, with the first record of breeding dating back to 1904. Fast forward more than a century later and these lovable cats are now considered to be one of the most popular felines in America, too. Easy-going, adaptable and independent, American Shorthairs won't require all of your time and energy. They're also one of the longest living cat breeds and can live for up to 15–20 years. As is the case with any other breed, no one American Shorthair is the same. But with more than 80 color combinations to choose from, these beauties really are one of a kind. Despite them being originally bred to protect crops from vermin, today, they are known as one of the most gentle cat companions to grace this earth. Considering bringing one home? Dr Rebecca MacMillan shares everything you need to know about this much-loved breed. Like all other cats, American Shorthairs are obligate carnivores. 'This means they need a diet that is rich in animal protein to get all the nutrients needed to maintain their health,' Dr Rebecca MacMillan explains. 'They don't need anything particularly special compared to other cat breeds. Just make sure you feed your American Shorthair on a good quality complete diet that is appropriate for their life stage, such as kitten, adult or senior.' For example, the best dry cat foods feature a high-quality protein source as the first ingredient and have nutritious recipes to keep your cat healthy. The same goes for the best cat food for senior cats that will keep your older feline happy and healthy. Despite the fact that American Shorthairs are short-haired cats, they have thick coats and tend to shed quite often throughout the year, especially in the spring and fall. Therefore, they are not considered to be hypoallergenic. However, according to Dr MacMillan: 'Regular grooming and a good quality diet can help to reduce the amount of hair shed in your home.' If you're looking for a fur friend who won't shed too much, it's worth reading up on the non-shedding cats and even the bald and beautiful hairless cat breeds that are practically void of hair. If you suffer from allergies then hypoallergenic cat breeds, like a Devon Rex or Russian Blue, will ease your symptoms if you're reaching for the tissues every time you're near a feline. Primarily bred to keep pest numbers down, these keen hunters are excellent at catching mice and rats, and as such, this makes the American Shorthair a well-muscled and active cat. 'They will enjoy plenty of playtime to let them practice their natural hunting instincts,' Dr MacMillan says. Therefore, according to the expert, American Shorthairs need around 30 minutes of activity every day, which is similar to most other cat breeds. 'This can be broken down into a few shorter play sessions,' Dr MacMillan says. 'Make sure that they have plenty of interactive cat toys, as these cats will entertain themselves as well as enjoy play sessions with you.' For example, the best automated cat toys can give your feline something fun to play with, even when you're not around. While the best cat toys can help you bond with your kitty. If you're thinking of adopting this breed, you'll be pleased to know that the American Shorthair is generally healthy compared to many other pedigrees, especially those with more extreme features. Therefore, the conditions that commonly affect the American Shorthair, like obesity and dental disease, could also affect any other cat breed. 'In my experience, one of the most diagnosed issues is obesity,' Dr MacMillan says. 'If your cat becomes overweight, it could be more at risk from other complaints, such as diabetes mellitus, arthritis, and cancer.' According to Dr MacMillan, the American Shorthair can also suffer from hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, which is an inherited heart condition that causes breathing issues and collapse. 'Sometimes a murmur is detected on a routine exam, but I have seen many affected cats go undiagnosed until they present in an emergency,' the vet says. To keep your American Shorthair healthy, you should ensure they are on an appropriate diet. 'This means feeding them the correct amount of a good quality complete diet,' Dr MacMillan says. 'Always check the manufacturer guidelines and make sure you weigh the food out accurately.' While the best cat treats can brighten up your fur friend's day and help you train them, Dr MacMillan recommends avoiding giving your cat too many snacks or table scraps as these will lead to weight gain over time. American Shorthair cats are a low-maintenance breed. However, they will still need weekly grooming to keep their coat in pristine condition. Dental hygiene is also really important for American Shorthairs. 'Try and introduce teeth brushing from an early age and make sure you attend regular checkups with your vet,' Dr MacMillan says. 'Make sure your American Shorthair also has all of the recommended preventative care, such as vaccinations, neutering, and anti-parasite treatment, especially if they are an outdoor cat that hunts.' Wisdom Panel Cat DNA Test | Amazon Not sure exactly what breed your cat is? This kit screens for 70+ breeds, 45 genetic health insights and 25+ physical traits – because knowing every detail about your cat helps you understand how best to care for them. View Deal In the US, an American Shorthair cat can cost anywhere between $500–1,500, depending on the state and breeder you go to. Cats with registered pedigrees will be towards the higher end of this scale, along with rarer colors and patterns. Therefore, American Shorthairs are seen as mid-priced cats as they aren't known as the most expensive cat breeds, but neither are they the most affordable. The great thing to note about American Shorthair cats is that they are brilliant all-rounders. They are mild-mannered, playful and great with children and even other pets you may have, like a dog. They also thrive with any time spent with their human counterparts, whether this is playing with toys or snuggling up on the couch. But, perhaps, above all, they are easy-going cats which makes them one of the best breeds for first-time owners. 'The American Shorthair is not too demanding, though, and they will also happily amuse themselves,' notes Dr MacMillan. 'They will slot in well to most homes and are generally good with children and other pets with the right socialization.' Taking Care Of An American Shorthair | Amazon This book covers even more about general cat caring, grooming, nutrition, and common disorders of American Deal Read next: American Shorthair cat facts Edited by Georgia Guerin.
The South African
5 days ago
- The South African
A vet reveals why a 'little mess' can help keep your pet happy
With travel on the rise again, many people across the globe are planning their next adventure – and pet owners are no exception, eager to ensure a happy pet while they're away. People always plan to travel. And whether you're based in London, Lagos, Cape Town, or Calgary, one thing remains constant: the emotional bond between people and their pets. For many animal lovers, that excitement about a well-earned getaway is tempered by a nagging worry – how will my pet cope when I'm gone? According to new research from TrustedHousesitters, more than half (53%) of UK pet owners worry that their animals feel abandoned when they travel. But veterinary experts say there are simple, science-backed steps that pet owners anywhere in the world can take to help their furry companions feel safe, secure, and loved – even in their absence. 'Everyone likes their home comforts, pets included!' says Dr. Rebecca MacMillan, a UK-based vet. 'Pets thrive on familiarity and routine. It helps them feel secure. Staying in an environment where they already feel safe will often mean they cope better when their owner is gone.' Dr. MacMillan explains that familiar smells – especially those of their owner – can go a long way toward helping pets feel calm. Pets are also attuned to small, everyday sounds like the ticking of a clock or the hum of the boiler. These cues remind them that their environment is still 'home.' While it's important to prepare a clean and comfortable space for sitters, friends, or family watching your pet, experts recommend leaving a few well-loved items behind to keep your pet grounded and calm. Whether you're planning a weekend road trip or a two-week tropical escape, here are five simple yet effective tips from Dr. MacMillan to help ensure your pet's emotional well-being while you're gone: Avoid deep-cleaning everything before you leave. 'Leave an item or two of unwashed clothing for your pet to snuggle with,' advises Dr. MacMillan. 'Pets take comfort in their owner's scent.' Their bedding, favourite toys, and even laundry-bound items can help them feel close to you. Ask your pet sitter to keep meal times, walks, and bedtime as close to your pet's normal schedule as possible. Predictability gives pets a sense of control and safety. For pets prone to anxiety, synthetic pheromone products can help. Plug-in diffusers, collars, or calming supplements may ease stress. However, always check with your vet before introducing anything new into your pet's diet. Leave clear instructions for your sitter, including your pet's schedule, medical needs, favourite hiding spots, and quirks. Emergency contacts and vet info are a must. A well-briefed sitter is a confident one – and that translates into calmer care for your pet. Try not to rearrange furniture, switch pet beds, or introduce new environments right before departure. 'Even if it seems a bit untidy to us, pets find comfort in their familiar surroundings,' Dr. MacMillan says. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
Yahoo
7 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
The playful, fluffy and chatty Norwegian Forest cat ‘may communicate with you by meowing, chirping, or yowling'
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. Norwegian Forest cat overview Other names: Wegies and Skogkatt (which translates to forest cat in Norwegian) Life expectancy: 12–16 years Size: 8–20lbs, 12–18 inches long and 10–12 inches tall Coat: cream, white, black, blue or golden, with a solid, bicolor, tortoiseshell or calico pattern Eye colour: green, gold, or copper Temperament: robust, companionable, intelligent, playful and patient Origin/native country: Norway Calm, gentle and overflowing with fur, the beautiful Norwegian Forest Cat is a sight to behold. As its name suggests, this treasure is Norway's national cat and has been since King Olav V declared it as such in 1938. It's also the feline of choice in Iceland, Finland, and Sweden. It's believed that the water-loving Norwegian Forest cat started its life aboard Viking ships, journeying from Great Britain to Norway in 1000 AD. These fabulous fur balls then lived in Norwegian forests for hundreds of years before being domesticated. Today, these clever and intelligent cats still have the hunting and climbing prowess of their feline ancestors. These big balls of fluff are the second largest cat breed after the Maine Coon, with males reaching weights of up to 20lbs. But the interesting list of characteristics about this majestic creature doesn't stop there. If you're wondering whether a Norwegian Forest cat is right for your home, stick right here. If you're looking for a hypoallergenic cat breed, you won't find it in a Norwegian Forest cat. Originating in Norway, where temperatures during winter can drop as low as -40°C, these feline friends have a dense undercoat that helps to keep them warm all year round. 'These cats have a characteristically long and thick, double coat,' notes vet Dr Rebecca MacMillan. 'They shed moderate amounts throughout the year, with their fur and dander containing the Fel d1 protein. This protein is spread from their saliva through their coat as they groom, causing a reaction in people with allergies.' Therefore, if you're looking for cats that don't shed much, consider a non-shedding cat breed, like a Sphynx, Peterbald or Cornish Rex, which might better suit pet owners who are allergic to cats or those who want to avoid finding fur all over their floors. Chatty feline friends make a great choice for those who live alone, or for any household that's looking for a lively fur friend to add to their family. And while Norwegian Forest cats can be vocal, they aren't considered to be amongst the loudest cat breeds. 'They may communicate with you by meowing, chirping, or yowling,' Dr MacMillan says. 'Each cat will be an individual though, some may be louder or quieter than others!' Just one look at this long-haired cat will confirm that this isn't a low-maintenance breed. To help keep mats and tangles at bay, it's worth grooming long-haired cats like a Norwegian Forest cat every day. Therefore, it's a wise idea to not only learn the different types of cat brushes and how to use them, but also invest in one of the best cat brushes to keep their coat looking in pristine condition. Even though healthy adult cats can spend up to 50% of their day grooming themselves, they still benefit from regular brushing to help remove dirt, loose hair and dandruff. Grooming your cat can also help you bond better with your kitty. If you are intending to adopt this breed, you should also note that they shed their thick and full coat every summer. Whether it's playing on one of the best cat trees, scaling furniture (Wegies are incredibly skilled climbers) or heading out for a swim (this is a cat breed that loves water), a Norwegian Forest cat will need around 30 minutes of exercise a day to keep them mentally stimulated and healthy. Wisdom Panel Cat DNA Test | Amazon Not sure exactly what breed your cat is? This kit screens for 70+ breeds, 45 genetic health insights and 25+ physical traits – because knowing every detail about your cat helps you understand how best to care for them. View Deal According to Dr MacMillan, Norwegian Forest cats are susceptible to a few health conditions, including hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). 'This condition causes the thickening of the heart walls, which affects the heart's ability to pump effectively,' Dr MacMillan says. 'I have seen many cats with HCM succumb to heart failure during my time in practice.' Therefore, screening tests are recommended, so if you are considering welcoming this breed into your family, check if your breeder has done this before purchasing a kitten from them. Norwegian Forest cats also can suffer from an inherited disorder known as glycogen storage disease. 'Affected cats struggle with the way they process glycogen in the body, causing organ dysfunction,' Dr MacMillan says. Another inherited health problem in this breed is hip dysplasia. 'This can affect the way the hip joint develops causing pain and limping, " the Dr explains. "Again, only healthy cats should be mated to reduce the chances of kittens inheriting this disease." It is not possible to avoid the risk of inherited diseases altogether, but Dr MacMillan recommends seeking a reputable breeder who has done all the recommended health screening. 'This will increase the chances of your kitten being healthy. Look after your Norwegian Forest cat by feeding them an appropriate diet, keeping them at a healthy weight and practicing preventative medicine such as vaccinations, anti-parasite treatment, and neutering.' A Norwegian Forest cat is considered pricey as it could set you back up to $2,000, but this is still cheaper than a Maine Coon, which is another large breed of cat and can cost a hefty $3,000 more. Either way, a Wegie is considered to be one of the most expensive cat breeds. Of course, how much you pay for a Norwegian Forest cat will depend on the breeder and area. Generally speaking, average prices sit between $900 to $1,500. Robust, fast and agile the Norwegian Forest cat has many attributes to love. They're also one of the calmest cat breeds, as they are known for having a very friendly, gentle, and relaxed temperament, which makes them great for families. This large fluffy breed is often favored because it has a love for the outdoors – so if you are an active household, you've met your match. Of course, their coat is a thing of beauty. But all that fur will require some upkeep. Therefore, if you have the time (love and care) to give to a Norwegian Forest it will fit right in and make your home their cat kingdom. Norwegian Forest Cats And Kittens | Amazon This owners guide provides essential information on the origin, physical attributes, purchase, temperament, health issues, and socialization of this wonderful Deal Read next: Reasons to love Norwegian Forest cats Edited by Georgia Guerin.
Scottish Sun
03-05-2025
- General
- Scottish Sun
Huge £1,000 fine dog owners face for common mistake while on a walk this summer – it could be dangerous for your pet too
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) SUMMER is almost here and if you're a dog-owner, there's a rule you should know about. If you're planning to take your pooch for country walks, avoid this costly mistake. 2 Dog owners can face up to £1,000 in fines during country walks between now and the end of July Credit: Getty Between March 1 and July 31, dog walkers are at risk of a fine when enjoying a country stroll. While you may be tempted to let your pooch off its leash when in a more remote setting, be warned that this move could cost you up to £1,000. It's common knowledge to keep your dog leashed in busy public areas, but during the spring and summer period the same rules apply to the UK countryside. According to the Countryside Code, you should "always keep dogs under control and in sight". "The countryside, parks, and the coast are great places to exercise your dog but you need to consider other users and wildlife," the code outlines. Dog owners are required to keep their pets "under effective control" to make sure they stay away from wildlife, livestock, horses, and other people "unless invited". The government law advised members of the public to "always keep your dog on a lead or in sight" and "be confident your dog will return on command". You should also ensure your dog "does not stray from the path or area where you have right of access". The code recommends checking local signs for the area's restrictions on canines in public. "Local areas may also ban dogs completely, except for assistance dogs," the code explained. Shocking moment plane passenger 'folds' her dog into a tiny carry-on bag at gate in desperate bid to get pup onto flight The law also specified rules surrounding walking your dog in areas with livestock. "It is good practice wherever you are to keep your dog on a lead around livestock," the code stipulated. "On Open Access land and at the coast, you must put your dog on a lead around livestock. "Between 1 March and 31 July, you must have your dog on a lead on Open Access land, even if there is no livestock on the land." And while this law helps to protect livestock, ignoring it may put your pooch at risk too. More summer risks to dogs EXPERTS are warning pet owners to be vigilant when it comes to taking their dogs out this summer - especially when it comes to taking them to the beach. Dr Rebecca MacMillan says it is important that dog parents are well prepped to ensure a safe trip away with their dog. From consumption of salt water, to open holes, the Gloucestershire-based vet says there are hidden hazards to look out for. Angela Laws, who is head of community at British pet-sitting platform TrustHousesitters, also urges pet owners to 'prioritise safety' and to 'be aware of potential hazards.' Preventing injuries Large holes can be hidden amongst the sand, which can cause injury if your dog trips or falls into it. Dr Rebecca is warning pet owners, as if you are playing fetch with them, your dog might not be 'expecting a hole' as they are running, which can cause them to fall and injure themselves. Talking to the Femail, Dr Rebecca also wanted to be mindful of other beach-going pets if you and your dog choose to dig a hole and to fill it back up before heading off. Food for thought Although you would never dream of drinking the water from the sea, your pets may view it as a large bowl of water for them. However, seawater consumption is extremely dangerous for your dogs according to Dr Rebecca. Drinking saltwater can disrupt the 'balance of electrolyte in the body and cause dehydration,' according to Rebecca. This is also the case for sand as too much sand can cause a painful obstruction, 'which may require surgery.' Check the temperature Just like humans, pets can get heat stroke too. It is most likely to occur when the body's temperature rises above 36C and hits 40C. Dr Rebbeca suggests caution when the weather outside hits 25C, and especially if it's over 27C. She also warned pet owners to do their research on the type of breed of their dog, as some will be much more 'prone to heatstroke.' Dr Rebecca says these dogs include flat-faced dogs like pugs and bulldogs, and large breeds with thick coats. She urges dog parents to make sure their pet is well hydrated, try to keep them in the shade and remember to be aware of their paws burning on the ground. Digging dangers Dr Rebecca there could be anything from discarded BBQ's with hot coals, to broken glass or sharp objects. She said: 'If your pooch is prone to digging, make sure you're nearby in case of any unexpected finds.' "A farmer can shoot a dog that is attacking or chasing livestock," the law explained. "They may not be liable to compensate the dog's owner." In the event where you feel threatened by livestock or horses while walking your dog, the code recommends letting your pooch loose. "Do not risk getting hurt protecting your dog," the code advises. "Releasing your dog will make it easier for you both to reach safety." Dog owners have also been warned to keep their pets clear of nesting areas this spring. And a UK beaches have reintroduced the restrictions regarding dogs on beaches during the summer months.
