Frequently Asked Questions: Breed & Species Veterinary Care Guide

The genetic mutation responsible for folded ears in Scottish Folds affects cartilage and bone development throughout the body, predisposing them to Osteochondrodysplasia. Early signs include a stiff thickened tail, reluctance to jump and swollen paws. Fold-to-Fold breeding must strictly be avoided; affected cats benefit from weight management, digital radiographic monitoring and veterinarian-guided chondroprotective supplements (glucosamine, chondroitin and Omega-3 fatty acids).

British Shorthair, Scottish Straight/Fold, Ragdoll and Maine Coon breeds carry a genetic predisposition to Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM—thickening of the heart muscle wall). Because many cats remain asymptomatic until stressed or anaesthetised, pre-operative cardiac auscultation, blood biochemistry screening and controlled gas (inhalation) anaesthesia are essential safety protocols at our clinic.

Brachycephalic (flat-faced) Persian, Exotic Shorthair and Chinchilla cats have shortened, curved tear ducts that cause tears to overflow onto the facial folds, requiring daily gentle cleansing with sterile ophthalmic solution. Because these breeds are also predisposed to hereditary Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), annual abdominal ultrasound screening and water intake monitoring are strongly recommended.

Male cats have a very narrow urethra that can become completely blocked by struvite/oxalate crystals or stress-induced mucus plugs. Within 24–48 hours of obstruction, potassium and uraemic toxins accumulate in the bloodstream, leading to acute kidney failure and cardiac arrest. Any cat straining in the tray or passing blood-tinged drops requires immediate clinical catheterisation and intravenous fluid therapy.

FIP develops when common feline enteric coronavirus (FCoV) mutates within an individual cat under stress or weak immunity. The "wet (effusive) form" causes straw-coloured fluid accumulation in the abdomen or chest with laboured breathing, whereas the "dry (non-effusive) form" presents with persistent antibiotic-resistant fever, weight loss, ocular cloudiness (uveitis) and neurological unsteadiness. Early diagnosis relies on blood biochemistry (Albumin/Globulin ratio), ultrasound and effusion analysis.

Feline neutering (spaying/ovariohysterectomy in females and castration in males) is ideally performed from 6 months of age. In female cats during active oestrus (heat), uterine blood vessels are engorged, so scheduling surgery shortly after the heat cycle subsides minimises surgical bleeding. Neutering prevents pyometra (uterine infection), reduces mammary tumour risk and stops roaming or high-rise falls.

Following initial parasite treatment, kittens receive their first Core Tricat vaccine (Panleukopenia, Herpesvirus and Calicivirus) at 6–8 weeks of age, with a booster 21 days later. This is followed by two doses of Feline Leukemia (FeLV) vaccine and the mandatory Rabies vaccine from 12 weeks of age. Adult cats receive annual single-dose boosters to maintain continuous immunity.

Fleas, tapeworm segments and roundworm eggs easily enter apartments on shoe soles, clothing, grocery bags and insects flying through windows. Because certain internal parasites such as Echinococcus carry zoonotic risk for humans, indoor cats should receive veterinary internal and external parasite treatments every 2 to 3 months year-round.

Crying out while eating, dropping food, pawing at the mouth, drooling and halitosis point to periodontal tartar, immune-mediated chronic gingivostomatitis or Feline Odontoclastic Resorptive Lesions (FORL). Ultrasonic scaling, polishing and targeted dental care under safe gas anaesthesia restore pain-free eating.

While seasonal shedding improves with daily brushing and Omega-3/Biotin supplementation, circular scaly hairless patches on the ears, face or paws typically indicate fungal ringworm (Microsporum canis) or mites and require clinical dermatological diagnosis. Giving feline malt paste 3–4 times a week prevents ingested hair from forming gastric hairball obstructions (trichobezoars).

White cats lack protective melanin pigment on their ear tips and nasal planum, making the skin highly vulnerable to ultraviolet radiation. Prolonged sunbathing by windows can lead to redness, crusting and actinic dermatitis on the ear margins, which requires sun protection and early dermatological care. Blue-eyed white cats should also be evaluated for congenital hearing sensitivity.

Mucopurulent eye crusts, sneezing and congested breathing in kittens are classic signs of Feline Upper Respiratory Infection (FHV-1 and Calicivirus). Never force crusted eyelids open dry; soften them gently with warm sterile saline and seek prompt veterinary ophthalmic drops, L-lysine support and nebulisation before corneal ulcers develop.

Cats falling from heights frequently sustain concealed internal injuries—including pulmonary contusion, pneumothorax (air in the chest cavity), diaphragmatic hernia, cleft palate and urinary bladder rupture—without obvious skin wounds. Immediate thoracic/abdominal radiographs, FAST ultrasound and oxygen stabilisation during the first 24 hours are life-saving.

In senior cats, drinking more water, larger urine clumps in the litter box, weight loss despite good appetite or uraemic breath are early indicators of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), Diabetes Mellitus or Hyperthyroidism. Biannual senior blood panels (Creatinine, BUN, SDMA, Glucose), urinalysis and renal-supportive nutrition significantly extend healthy lifespan.

Feline gestation averages 63–65 days. Abdominal ultrasound confirms pregnancy sacs and foetal heartbeats from days 21–25, while digital X-rays after day 45 accurately count foetal skeletons. Strong straining for over an hour without delivery, or dark green/bloody discharge without a kitten, requires immediate veterinary examination and potential Caesarean section.

In Toy Poodles, Maltese Terriers, Yorkshire Terriers and Pomeranians, a shallow femoral groove allows the kneecap (patella) to slip out of place (Patellar Luxation). A classic sign is a dog holding one hind leg up for 2–3 hopping steps before walking normally again. Graded from I to IV via orthopedic exam and digital X-rays, early stages are managed with weight control and joint nutraceuticals, while higher grades benefit from corrective surgery before arthritis or cruciate ligament damage develops.

In German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Labradors and Rottweilers, hip joint laxity leads to Hip Dysplasia—manifesting as difficulty rising, reluctance to climb stairs, "bunny-hopping" with both hind legs when running and a swaying gait. Early orthopedic screening and pelvic radiographs at 4–6 months of age, non-slip home flooring, controlled body weight and chondroprotective support are essential.

Long, heavy pendulous ears in English and American Cocker Spaniels trap heat and moisture inside the ear canal, encouraging rapid overgrowth of Malassezia yeast and bacteria. When a dog shakes its head, scratches its ears or develops a sour odour, avoid unprescribed drops; an otoscopic examination to verify eardrum integrity, clinical ear flushing and targeted topical therapy are required.

A dry, honking cough triggered by excitement, drinking water or pulling on the leash is typically caused by weakening of the cartilaginous rings of the windpipe (Tracheal Collapse) in toy breeds. Neck collars must immediately be replaced with a chest harness to eliminate tracheal pressure, alongside radiographic evaluation and medical airway support.

Brachycephalic breeds such as French Bulldogs, English Bulldogs, Pugs and Shih Tzus have narrowed nostrils and an elongated soft palate (BOAS). Because they cannot cool efficiently by panting, warm humid weather can trigger life-threatening heatstroke within minutes. Walk them only in cool morning/evening hours, and ensure any surgical procedure uses intubated gas anaesthesia.

In dense-undercoated breeds like Golden Retrievers, Labradors and German Shepherds, trapped moisture after swimming or bathing, flea bites or food allergies trigger intense itching. Self-licking and scratching create a raw, hairless, oozing lesion (Hot Spot) within hours. Clipping the surrounding coat, antiseptic cleansing and anti-inflammatory dermatological care resolve the flare-up.

In large, deep-chested breeds, eating a large meal rapidly followed by vigorous exercise can cause the stomach to distend with gas and twist on its axis (GDV / Bloat). Typical signs are a tight drum-like abdomen, non-productive retching and rapid shock. Immediate emergency decompression and surgery are critical; divide daily food into 2–3 smaller meals and rest for an hour after feeding.

A pink-red mass protruding from the inner corner of the eye in young Cocker Spaniels, Bulldogs, Cane Corsos and Beagles is a prolapsed third-eyelid tear gland ("Cherry Eye"). Because this gland produces 35–40% of the eye’s protective tear film, it must never be excised (which causes chronic Dry Eye) but surgically repositioned using a pocket technique.

In unvaccinated puppies—with heightened sensitivity in Rottweilers, Dobermans, German Shepherds and Kangals—Parvovirus causes sudden lethargy, severe vomiting, foul-smelling bloody diarrhoea and rapid dehydration. Early intensive intravenous fluid and electrolyte therapy is life-saving. Puppies must not touch shared outdoor ground until their primary vaccination series is complete (12–14 weeks).

Starting at 6–8 weeks alongside parasite control, puppies receive Puppy DP, 2–3 doses of Core DHPPi-L, Bordetella (Kennel Cough), Coronavirus, Lyme and Rabies (from 12 weeks). For international travel to the EU or UK, blood for the Rabies Titration Test is drawn at least 30 days after rabies vaccination in a microchipped dog, followed by a mandatory 90-day waiting period—begin at least 4 months before departure.

In toy breeds, deciduous (baby) canine teeth frequently fail to shed by 6–8 months of age, remaining wedged alongside the permanent teeth. This double row traps plaque, causing early periodontal disease and malocclusion. Retained baby teeth should be extracted promptly, and adult tartar removed via ultrasonic scaling under gas anaesthesia.

Neutering timing is tailored to breed size (from 6–8 months in small breeds, and after skeletal maturity assessment in large breeds). Spaying female dogs completely eliminates the risk of life-threatening uterine infection (Pyometra) later in life and dramatically reduces mammary tumour incidence, while castrating males prevents benign prostatic hyperplasia and testicular tumours.

Ticks in green areas across Gebze and Kocaeli transmit blood-borne pathogens such as Ehrlichia, Babesia and Anaplasma, while mosquitoes transmit Heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis). Fever, pale gums, lethargy and nosebleeds are key warning signs. External and internal parasite protection must be maintained continuously 12 months a year.

Sudden non-weight-bearing lameness or toe-touching after running or jumping is most commonly caused by Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL) rupture in medium-to-large or overweight dogs. Confirmed via cranial drawer / tibial compression tests and digital radiography, joint-stabilising orthopedic surgery restores mobility and limits osteoarthritis.

Chocolate (theobromine), grapes/raisins (acute renal failure), onions/garlic and xylitol are toxic to dogs, while cooked bones, corn cobs and toys cause gastrointestinal perforation or obstruction. Never attempt to induce vomiting at home with salt water or oil. Contact the clinic within the first 1–2 hours for radiographic/ultrasound assessment and safe medical decontamination.

Unlike normal courtship feeding, sticky feathers around the face, lethargy and sour-smelling regurgitation point to crop candidiasis, megabacteriosis or bacterial ingluvitis, requiring targeted avian treatment.

Fluffed plumage indicates heat loss and illness, while rhythmic tail-bobbing signals respiratory effort. Keep the bird warm (26–28°C) away from drafts and arrange a prompt clinical examination.

Honeycomb-like crusts on the cere and legs are typically caused by Knemidocoptes mites and respond well to veterinary treatment. Overgrown beaks can also reflect hepatic lipidosis or nutritional imbalance and should be trimmed safely by a clinician.

Nasal discharge, sinus swelling and wheezing in cockatiels often stem from upper respiratory pathogens (such as Chlamydia or Mycoplasma) compounded by vitamin A deficiency. Early clinical evaluation prevents lower airway involvement.

Feather damaging behaviour can result from ectoparasites, dermatitis, liver disease, heavy-metal exposure or environmental stress. Medical causes must be ruled out first before addressing diet and cage enrichment.

Yes. Egg-binding is an avian emergency often linked to calcium depletion. Never attempt to press the abdomen at home, as a fractured egg inside the oviduct is fatal; bring the bird to the clinic immediately.

Loss of voice and audible clicking respiration in canaries are classic signs of tracheal / air-sac mites (Sternostoma tracheacolum) or respiratory infection, both of which respond well to targeted veterinary antiparasitic therapy.

Hyperkeratotic crusts on the legs and feet (scaly leg mites) must never be peeled off forcefully, as this causes severe bleeding. Gentle medical softening and antiparasitic treatment resolve the condition safely.

Annual moulting lasts 6–8 weeks and places high demand on protein and energy reserves. Keep the bird out of drafts and provide amino-acid, biotin and B-complex support recommended by your veterinarian.

Swollen eyelids (blepharoconjunctivitis) typically result from vitamin A deficiency (often due to a dried-shrimp-only diet) combined with cold or unhygienic water. Veterinary vitamin supplementation, ophthalmic drops and correcting water temperature to 28°C resolve the condition.

A soft pliable shell indicates Metabolic Bone Disease from insufficient UVB light and dietary calcium, while pitted or malodorous patches indicate bacterial/fungal shell rot requiring clinical debridement and topical therapy.

Listing to one side in the water, inability to submerge, nasal bubbles and open-mouth gasping are classic signs of pneumonia in aquatic turtles and require urgent veterinary antibiotic and thermal therapy.

“Wet Tail” (proliferative enteritis) causes rapid, life-threatening dehydration in hamsters, particularly young animals after stress. Immediate veterinary fluid therapy and rodent-safe antimicrobials are essential.

Yes. Hamster incisors grow continuously; bar-biting or malocclusion prevents normal wear so teeth curve into the palate or lips. Never clip teeth with nail clippers at home, as this fractures the tooth root—clinical trimming is safe and painless.

Sticky foods, sharp seed husks or fluffy cotton bedding can become trapped inside the cheek pouch, causing impaction or abscessation. A veterinarian can gently flush and clear the pouch.

Rattling respiration, nasal discharge and facial swelling in poultry commonly point to Mycoplasma (CRD) or Infectious Coryza. Isolate affected birds immediately, improve coop ventilation and consult a veterinarian for targeted therapy.

In damp litter conditions, Coccidiosis damages the intestinal lining and causes bloody or mucoid droppings, ruffled feathers and weight loss. Dry litter management and specific anticoccidial treatment are required.

Soft-shelled eggs reflect calcium/vitamin D3 imbalance, heat stress or oviduct inflammation, while pale combs and weakness often indicate blood loss from nocturnal red mites (Dermanyssus gallinae) or internal parasites.