🐾 Vet Q&A 2025: Dr Duncan Houston Answers Your Top Pet Health Questions 🩺

Being a pet parent means loving your companion fiercely—and sometimes feeling a little overwhelmed by all the advice out there. Whether you’re a seasoned owner or bringing home your first furry friend, questions pop up all the time. That’s where I come in. I'm Dr Duncan Houston, and I’ve compiled this 2025 edition of the most frequently asked pet questions I hear through Ask A Vet. Let’s dive into expert-backed answers to keep your pets healthy, happy, and thriving! 🐶🐱🐹🐰

🍲 Q1: Is My Pet's Food Good Enough?

Great question! Diet is the cornerstone of health, yet so many pets eat subpar food. Here’s what to look for:

• ✅ Named protein sources (like chicken, lamb, or salmon)
• ✅ Whole ingredients—limited byproducts or artificial dyes
• ✅ Life-stage-specific formulas (puppy/kitten vs adult vs senior)
• ✅ AAFCO label for nutritional adequacy

Guinea pigs need hay and vitamin C-rich veggies, while cats require taurine and high protein. If you're unsure, use the Ask A Vet app to scan or send a photo of your pet’s food label. 📸

🧼 Q2: How Often Should I Groom My Pet?

It depends on your pet’s species, breed, and coat type:

• 🐶 Dogs: Brush weekly (daily for long coats), bathe monthly
• 🐱 Cats: Brush 2–3x per week; bathe rarely unless dirty
• 🐹 Guinea Pigs: Short-haired breeds need brushing weekly; long-haired daily!

Also trim nails every 3–4 weeks and check ears monthly. Purrz grooming tools are vet-approved and gentle on sensitive skin. 🧴✨

🦷 Q3: What Can I Do About Bad Breath?

Dental disease is extremely common and usually starts quietly. Signs include:

• 🦷 Foul breath
• 🥩 Dropping food, chewing only on one side
• 🐾 Swollen or bleeding gums

Brush teeth daily with a pet-safe paste. Schedule annual cleanings with your vet. For at-home care, the Purrz Dental Kit includes everything you need! 🪥🐕🐈

🧠 Q4: Why Is My Pet Suddenly Acting Differently?

Behavior changes can be signs of stress, pain, or underlying illness. Watch for:

• 😼 Hiding, growling, or increased vocalizing
• 🐾 Avoiding touch or jumping
• 💩 Litter box or potty training regression

If in doubt, request a virtual behavior consult via Ask A Vet. And Woopf offers training programs designed by animal behaviorists for lasting results. 🎓🐾

⏳ Q5: What Should I Expect as My Pet Ages?

Aging pets need more care, not less! As they grow older, watch for:

• 🛌 Slower movement or stiffness
• 💤 Changes in sleep, appetite, or toilet habits
• 👂 Hearing or vision loss

Joint support supplements, orthopedic beds, and mobility aids from Woopf’s Senior Pet Comfort line can be a game-changer. 💚

🌡️ Q6: When Is It Time for the Vet?

Book a vet visit if your pet experiences:

• 🚨 Vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours
• 🐾 Trouble walking or breathing
• 🩸 Bleeding, seizures, or sudden collapse

Use Ask A Vet’s emergency triage tool for instant advice on what to do next. Don’t wait—early action saves lives. ⏱️❤️

🐕 Q7: Can I Trust Supplements?

Yes—if they’re veterinary-formulated and regulated. Good supplements include:

• 💊 Omega-3s for skin, heart, and brain health
• 🦴 Glucosamine and chondroitin for joints
• ⚙️ Probiotics for digestive support

Ask A Vet can recommend safe options tailored to your pet’s species, age, and condition. 🧠🛡️

🐾 Q8: What’s the Best Litter or Bedding?

Great question for small animal parents! Here’s a quick guide:

• 🐱 Cats: Unscented, clumping litter is best for odor and training
• 🐹 Guinea Pigs/Rabbits: Avoid cedar or pine; use paper-based or aspen bedding

Always clean litter areas daily and change bedding weekly to prevent health issues like respiratory infections. 🧹

🥗 Q9: What Fresh Foods Are Safe for Small Pets?

Small pets thrive on variety, but not all veggies and fruits are safe.

• ✅ Romaine, bell pepper, cilantro, cucumber
• ❌ Iceberg lettuce, onion, garlic, avocado
• 🍓 Use fruit only as treats (1–2x/week)

Ask A Vet offers customized feeding guides for rabbits and guinea pigs. 🥦🐰

🔁 Q10: Can Pets Get Bored?

Absolutely! Bored pets may become destructive or depressed. Try these tips:

• 🎾 Rotate toys weekly
• 🧠 Puzzle feeders and treat balls
• 🌿 Outdoor sniff walks or secure window perches

Enrichment keeps pets mentally sharp and emotionally fulfilled. Ask A Vet or Woopf can help you build a boredom-busting routine! 🧩🐾

📦 Bonus Q: What If I Just Adopted a New Pet?

Congrats! Your first few weeks together set the tone for life. Don’t skip:

• 📅 Vet checkup within 7 days
• 🦠 Parasite prevention (worms, fleas, mites)
• 🛏️ Safe space to sleep and acclimate
• 📘 Consistent routines and feeding schedules

Use the Ask A Vet New Pet Checklist to get started right. 🐣🎉

📱 Ask A Vet: Always Here for You

No matter your question, Ask A Vet offers:

• 🎥 Video consultations with licensed vets
• 📸 Photo diagnosis for skin, teeth, eyes
• 🧠 Behavior and nutrition plans
• 🐰 Exotic pet expertise

We’re available 24/7—because your pet doesn’t wait for office hours. ⏰💬

📌 Final Thoughts from Dr Duncan Houston

Your questions mean you care—and that’s the best place to start. Don’t hesitate to reach out, whether it's something small or something urgent. With the right support, every pet can live their healthiest, happiest life. ❤️

Download the Ask A Vet app today or visit AskAVet.com for expert help whenever you need it. Your pet’s wellbeing is just one question away. 🐾📱