Congratulations on your new pet family member! Becoming a first-time or new pet owner is an exciting journey, and we’re here to ensure it’s rewarding, happy and healthy—for both you and your pet.

First things first—essential pet care

The guidance below covers fundamental aspects of pet care to get you started on the right paw. Remember, these tips provide foundational knowledge, and your vet can always offer additional personalised advice.

Cat

Choose balanced, age-appropriate cat food that is high in protein and specially formulated for cats.

Good nutrition is essential for maintaining your cat’s health, promoting a healthy coat, strong immune system, and proper growth. Poor quality food can lead to digestive issues, nutritional deficiencies, and long-term health problems.

Engage your feline friend with interactive toys such as feather wands and puzzle feeders for mental stimulation and activity.

Avoid toys with small detachable parts, string, rubber bands, or anything sharp that could be swallowed or cause harm. Items like buttons, bells, googly eyes, or beads can all pose a serious choking risk.

If you’d like to make your own, use safe, non-toxic materials—think cardboard rolls or knotted fabric—and always supervise playtime to avoid accidents.

Secure electrical cords, remove poisonous plants such as lilies, tulips, daffodils, and poinsettias, and keep small objects out of reach. Cats are curious by nature—make your home a safe space.

Dog

Opt for high-quality, nutritionally balanced dog food tailored to your dog’s age, breed, and activity level.

Proper nutrition supports your dog’s overall health, maintains energy levels, and ensures healthy development.

Inadequate food choices can cause digestive upset, poor coat condition, low energy, and increased risk of health complications.

Keep your dog happy and engaged with durable chew toys, interactive puzzle toys, and soft plush toys.

Avoid toys with stuffing that can be easily pulled out, small parts that can be swallowed, or brittle materials that can splinter. Common choking hazards include squeakers, buttons, fabric eyes, or plastic trims that can detach.

If you’re making homemade toys, use strong, pet-safe fabrics and ensure all components are securely attached and too large to swallow.

Ensure hazardous substances, sharp objects, and dangerous foods are securely stored away. Common toxic plants for dogs include azaleas, foxgloves, hydrangeas and rhododendrons. Dogs explore their surroundings with their mouths, so safety is key.

Training your puppy early, ideally between 8-12 weeks of age, is crucial for establishing good habits, preventing behavioural issues, and fostering a strong bond. We recommend considering training support early on. Our experienced team is here to provide professional guidance tailored specifically to your dog’s needs.

Protecting your pet (and your budget!)

While it’s easy to get carried away buying adorable accessories, always prioritise your pet’s wellbeing. We know you want to give your pet the best care, but you can’t always predict when they’ll need the vet. This makes budgeting for veterinary care challenging. Our Practice Plan provides you with access to exceptional care for your pet, while also helping you budget effectively and avoid paying more than necessary.

Budget for routine care

Spread the cost of your pet’s preventative care so you have peace of mind that everything’s covered

Never pay to see a vet

Unlimited consultations give you the confidence to bring your pet in as soon as you notice something

Access our best prices

Never pay more than you need to thanks to exclusive discounts across our products and services

Thrums Vets: Dog behaviourist service

Vet advice

Our Practice Plan offers unlimited consults, meaning you can bring your pet in as soon as you notice something concerning. However, if you’re considering a less stressful approach at home first, explore our “Ask the Vet” video series. These videos provide valuable tips on what to do at home when your pet shows symptoms like diarrhoea or vomiting, helping you decide when it’s time to visit us.

Thrums Vets gavin durston

Thrums Vets gavin durston

Vomiting in dogs

Thrums Vets gavin durston

Thrums Vets gavin durston

Diarrhoea in dogs

Thrums Vets gavin durston

Thrums Vets gavin durston

Lumps & bumps

Thrums Vets gavin durston

Thrums Vets gavin durston

Dog dental care

Thrums Vets gavin durston

Thrums Vets gavin durston

Best age to neuter female dog