Emma Purnell, RVN Cert.Nut. One of the most common and potentially complicated issues in rabbits are dental problems, but spotting these problems isn’t always the easiest. Rabbit dentition is unusual with incisors (and smaller peg teeth) at the front of the mouth and visible, with rows of cheek teeth (molars)...

By Emma Purnell, RVN Cert.Nut. Rabbits are highly social animals who, in the wild, depend on company to survive. Without companions, they have increased levels of stress and anxiety as well as being unable to display normal behaviours. It is recommended that all rabbits are kept with a bonded companion,...

By Emma Purnell, RVN Cert.Nut. Guinea pigs can make wonderful pets, but they tend to hide any illness or injury until it is severe. If you see any of these signs in your guinea pig it is an emergency, and you need to seek veterinary care as soon as possible. Anorexia Guinea...

By Emma Purnell, RVN Cert.Nut. Ferrets can make fun and engaging pets but do have some very specific dietary needs which need to be taken into consideration. Ferrets are classed as obligate carnivores – this means that they must have meat as the core of their diet and cannot be...

By Emma Purnell, RVN Cert Nut. Rabbits are clever and inquisitive creatures and need plenty of mental stimulation. Without this the destructive behaviours that often become a problem can be more pronounced. Toys are a great way to keep them entertained and there are plenty to choose from! Regularly switching them...

By Emma Purnell, RVN Cert.Nut. The term dwarf hamster encompasses several species of hamster including Roborovski and Chinese Dwarf Hamsters. These animals are often seen as children’s pets but may not be ideal for all homes as they have some very specific needs. Hamsters are nocturnal, they sleep during the day...

By Emma Purnell, RVN Cert.Nut. Rabbits are often a species kept outside, but in extreme temperature they can be more severely affected. Wild rabbits are naturally able to regulate their temperature well if they can stay active and seek shelter if they need it. Making sure your rabbit’s environment allows them...

By Emma Purnell, RVN Cert.Nut. Rats are highly intelligent animals that, despite their reputation for being dirty and ugly due to their bald tails, are clean and sociable animals that can make wonderful pets. They do have some specific care needs which must be taken into account when being cared for....

By Emma Purnell, RVN Cert.Nut. As we are taking greater care of our rabbits they are living longer which is wonderful, but does lead to some complications as they become more senior. While in the past people expected their rabbits to be short lived pets, they are now routinely living to...

By Emma Purnell, RVN Cert.Nut. Rabbits are very unlike cats and dogs; they are a prey species which means their body language and behaviour can be different and seem unusual. They are quiet animals so reading their body language and ear position can give us an insight into how they feel....