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Cheetham House
The Drove, Bridgwater
Somerset
TA6 4BA

01278 450080
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Grooming

Dogs require regular grooming. The frequency of grooming will depend upon the breed or type of dog; longhaired dogs require daily care, short haired dogs once or twice a week. The Hospital is able to offer advice on suitable shampoos and any skin problems or parasites you may notice whilst grooming your dog. Normal exercise is usually enough to maintain nails in most dogs. In dogs that are old or unable to exercise normally or where there is nail abnormality, nails may require clipping.  The nurses at the Hospital are able to do this for your pet. 

Cats, except long-haired varieties, will keep themselves well groomed unless ill or overweight. Long-haired cats will need to be groomed daily to keep their coats free from matts. Cats will also wear down their nails through their natural behaviour but old cats may need to have theirs clipped regularly.  Nail clipping can be carried out at the Hospital.  

Squamous Cell Carcinoma – or Ear Cancer – is common in white cats or cats with white ears. A high factor sun block used during the summer months can help to prevent this and the Hospital is able to advise you on suitable products.  

Rabbits will usually keep themselves clean unless ill or overweight.  Long-haired rabbits will need regular grooming to help keep their coats free from matts. Eyes and ears can be checked at the same time. Runny eyes and dirty bottoms in rabbits can be a sign of dental disease. Rabbits’ nails should wear down naturally but should still be checked regularly and can be clipped if over long.  

Dental care

Dogs and cats develop dental plaque and subsequent tooth and gum disease just like people.  It is recommended to start dental care as early as possible and the nurses at the Hospital will advise on this at puppy and kitten consultations. Brushing teeth or feeding a special dental biscuit (such as Hills t/d) can help prevent dental disease. Dog and cat tooth pastes are available from the Hospital shop, human toothpaste should not be used. For further advice on dental case please contact the Hospital.

Rabbit teeth grow continuously and should be checked on a regular basis. Dental problems in rabbits are common. Advice should be sought quickly if the teeth are visibly overgrown or the rabbit is off its’ food, salivating, has a dirt bottom or has runny eyes (all of which can be signs of dental disease). Teeth can be clipped or rasped if necessary.