THE PETIST

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PET KNOWLEDGE HUB

Jun 14, 2026
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Is My Dog Too Fat? Dog Body Condition Score (BCS) Calculator Key facts (clinically verified): An estimated 51–65% of UK dogs are overweight or obese, according to PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report data. Excess body weight in dogs...

dog shampoo

Jun 13, 2026
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Best Natural Vegan Dog Shampoo UK 2026: What the Science Actually Says

What is the best natural, vegan dog shampoo in the UK? The FurBabies™ Botanicals Rinse-Off Shampoo is a fully plant-derived, vegan, SLS-free shampoo formulated specifically for canine and feline skin pH backed by peer-reviewed research on every active botanical ingredient....

Jun 13, 2026
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What is in FurBabies™ Botanicals Products?

What ingredients are in FurBabies™ Botanicals pet skincare products? Every ingredient in the FurBabies™ Botanicals range is plant-derived, vegan, and chosen for a specific, evidence-based reason to support the skin barrier, reduce inflammation, or provide antimicrobial protection. This page explains...

Dry Shampoo No Rinse Shampoo

Jun 13, 2026
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Is No-Rinse or Dry Shampoo Safe For Pets?

Is no-rinse shampoo safe for dogs, cats, and small pets? Yes but only when formulated with gentle, pet-safe ingredients and used correctly, no-rinse shampoo is a safe and practical way to keep your pet clean between full baths. Waterless, dry,...

Jun 13, 2026
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Scratching the Surface: Understanding and Treating Common Causes of Dog Itch

Why does my dog keep scratching? The most common causes of persistent dog scratching are fleas, house dust mites, environmental allergies, skin infections, and damage caused by harsh grooming products. Getting to the root cause — not just treating the...

dog allergies dog dermatitis

Jun 13, 2026
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Dog itch - what else could it be?

My dog is still itching what else could it be? If you've already addressed fleas, allergies, infections, and grooming products and your dog is still scratching, there are less common but serious causes worth investigating: hormonal imbalances, autoimmune conditions, metabolic...

Why is my Dog Itching? - FurBabies™ Botanicals | Pet Skin Barrier Repair

Jun 06, 2026
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Why Is My Dog Itching? Causes, Treatments and When to See a Vet

Why is my dog itching? Dogs itch for many reasons: fleas, environmental allergies, food sensitivities, skin barrier damage from harsh grooming products, and secondary yeast or bacterial infections. Identifying the root cause is the only way to stop it for...

Jun 04, 2026
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Piriton vs Apoquel vs Cytopoint for Dogs: Which Is Right for Yours? UK Guide

Important: Piriton, Apoquel and Cytopoint are not interchangeable Piriton is most useful for short-term acute allergic reactions such as insect stings, hives, facial swelling, and mild vaccine reactions. Apoquel and Cytopoint are primarily used to control chronic itching caused...

dog shampoo pet shampoo

Can You Use Baby Shampoo on Dogs? A Clinical Pharmacist's Evidence-Based Safety Guide - FurBabies™ Botanicals

Jun 02, 2026
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Baby Shampoo For Dogs Ingredient Safety - A Pharmacist's Guide

Looking for the quick, practical answer? Read our concise guide: Baby Shampoo for Dogs — The Short Answer (UK). This article is the full clinical deep-dive — ingredient analysis, skin physiology, and the pharmacist-level science behind the guidance. Clinically Reviewed...

dog dermatitis

Jun 01, 2026
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Dog Contact Dermatitis vs. Seborrheic Dermatitis: Identifying and Treating Skin Issues in Dogs

What is the difference between contact dermatitis and seborrheic dermatitis in dogs? Contact dermatitis is a localised skin reaction caused by direct contact with an irritant or allergen, think grass chemicals, cleaning products, or shampoo ingredients. Seborrheic dermatitis is a...

dog

May 30, 2026
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Is Xylitol Toxic to Dogs? What It Is, Where It's Found, and How to Check the Risk

Most UK dog owners know that chocolate is dangerous. Far fewer realise that a single piece of chewing gum — the kind that lives in handbags, coat pockets, car gloveboxes, and desk drawers can kill a dog within hours....

cat shampoo dog allergies dog dermatitis dog shampoo pet shampoo

May 30, 2026
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Paraben The Hidden Ingredient in Most Pet Shampoos That Could Be Harming Your Dog

Are parabens safe for dogs and cats? No. Parabens are synthetic preservatives that penetrate pet skin readily, disrupt hormones, and accumulate in body tissue with repeated exposure. This is because a dog's skin is significantly thinner and more permeable than...

May 30, 2026
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Why avoid Shampoos with SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulphate) & SLES (Sodium Laureth Sulphate)

Walk down the pet care aisle in any UK supermarket and you'll find shelves of brightly packaged shampoos, many of them foaming generously in their promotional photos. That satisfying lather is largely down to one ingredient: SLS (Sodium Lauryl...

dog dermatitis dog shampoo pet shampoo puppy shampoo

May 30, 2026
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Baby Shampoo for Dogs

Can I use baby shampoo on my dog? No — baby shampoo is not recommended for regular use on dogs. Baby shampoo is formulated for human skin pH (5.5), while a dog's skin sits at a neutral pH of around...

cat shampoo dog allergies dog shampoo guinea pig shampoo pet shampoo

May 30, 2026
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Does the choice of pet shampoo matter?

Does the choice of pet shampoo really matter? Yes significantly. Using the wrong shampoo on your dog, cat, or small pet can strip protective skin oils, disrupt pH balance, trigger itching, and cause long-term coat damage. This guide explains exactly...

dog allergies dog dermatitis

Apr 29, 2026
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The Environmental Audit: Is Your Home Making Your Dog Itchy?

In our previous deep dives, we explored the "Outside-In" theory and how a "Leaky Skin Barrier" allows irritants to penetrate the skin. But for the owner of a dog with Contact Dermatitis, the biggest question remains: What exactly is getting...

dog shampoo pet shampoo

Best Dog Shampoos in 2025: A Clinical Pharmacist's Evidence-Based Guide for UK Pet Parents - FurBabies™ Botanicals

Apr 20, 2026
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Best Dog Shampoos in 2026: A Clinical Pharmacist's Evidence-Based Guide for UK Pet Parents

Quick Answer: Best Dog Shampoos for UK Pet Owners The best dog shampoo in the UK in 2026 is FurBabies™ Botanicals Rinse-Off Shampoo with Lavender the only pharmaceutical-grade canine formula combining clinically validated anxiety reduction, natural flea deterrence, and active...

dog

Nov 16, 2025
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The Complete Guide to Dog Coats: What Every Pet Parent Needs to Know in 2025

Quick Answer: Dog coats are essential protective gear for short-haired breeds (Greyhounds, Whippets, Dobermans), small dogs, seniors, and long-haired breeds prone to matting (Poodles, Goldendoodles). The best coats feature high waterproof ratings (10,000-20,000mm), silk or satin linings to prevent matting,...

Nov 06, 2025
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Chronic Pain, Muscle Loss, and Early Mortality in Senior Dogs: The Hidden Threat of Sarcopenia

Even with arthritis meds for dogs, joint chews, or other good joint supplements for dogs, chronic pain can silently destroy muscles in senior dogs. This process, called sarcopenia (age- and pain-related loss of muscle mass and strength), happens because pain...

Cat dog

Nov 01, 2025
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How can I check if my dog’s flea or tick treatment is genuine in the UK? (VMD verification + real owner story)

Check the pack’s VM number against the VMD Product Information Database on GOV.UK. If the VM, manufacturer and leaflet match the database entry, the product is authorised; if not, don’t use it. Immediate story hook “I hadn’t left my flat...

Oct 29, 2025
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Topical Joint Pain Relief But Formulated For Dogs

Table of Contents Understanding Topical Pain Relief for Dogs Why Deep Heat and Human Products Are Dangerous for Dogs Safe Topical Pain Relief Options for Dogs How Topical Pain Relief Works in Dogs Topical vs Oral Pain Medications: What's Best...

Cat dog

Oct 24, 2025
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Pets At Home Cat & Dog Advent Calenders - 2025 Review

Health and Ingredient Analysis of Pets at Home Dog and Cat Advent Calendars (2025) Pet advent calendars are fun, but not all treats are created equal. This guide covers the ingredients, allergens, and health considerations of popular 2025 UK advent...

Cat

Oct 22, 2025
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Best Anti Itch for Cats and Cat Itch Relief

Effective Cat Itch Relief & FASS Management A practical guide to combining veterinary treatment with skin barrier support for cats. Contents Introduction — Why skin barrier repair matters DermaProtect Skin Barrier Repair Serum — Product summary How DermaProtect helps itch,...

Cat

Aug 06, 2025
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Cat Chin Acne Treatment: Natural Solutions for Early-Stage Blackheads

How do you treat early-stage cat chin acne? Treat early-stage cat chin acne (blackheads only) with gentle, microbiome-friendly botanical ingredients like calendula and clary sage. Replace plastic bowls with stainless steel, clean chin daily, and apply natural serum weekly. For...

Cat

Aug 06, 2025
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Cat Chin Acne: Complete Guide to Causes, Symptoms & Diagnosis

What is cat chin acne? Cat chin acne is a skin condition where hair follicles on the chin become clogged with excess keratin and oil, forming blackheads (comedones). It affects cats of all ages and breeds, appearing as small black...

Aug 06, 2025
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Cat Overgrooming: Complete Guide to Excessive Licking in Cats

Cat overgrooming is when cats lick, bite, or chew their fur excessively beyond normal hygiene, causing visible hair loss and skin irritation. Normal cats groom for 2-5 hours daily; overgrooming cats may spend 8 or more hours targeting the same...

Jun 17, 2025
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Why Does My Dog Eat Grass? A Clinical Pharmacist's Complete Guide to Canine Grass Consumption

Quick Answer Summary Why does my dog eat grass? Dogs eat grass primarily because they enjoy the taste and texture, need additional fibre, or follow natural foraging instincts. Over 80% of dogs eat grass regularly, and it's completely normal behaviour....

Jun 17, 2025
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Why Does My Dog Eat Poop? A Clinical Pharmacist's Complete Guide to Coprophagia

By Dr. Poonum Wilkhu, MPharm, PgDiP, IP, Doctorate in Public Health Quick Answer Summary Why does my dog eat poop? Dogs eat poop (coprophagia) primarily due to habit, hunger, stress, boredom, or attention-seeking behaviour. Only 5% of cases involve underlying...

Jun 17, 2025
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Why Dogs Eat Strange Things: The Hidden Science Behind Canine Pica

Quick Answer: Why Dogs Eat Non-Food Items Pica in dogs - the persistent eating of non-food items like grass, poop, plastic, screws, rocks, or fabric - affects up to 15% of dogs and has complex medical, neurochemical, and environmental causes. As...

dog shampoo guinea pig shampoo hamster shampoo pet shampoo rabbit shampoo

Jun 17, 2025
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Dog Shampoo for Sensitive Skin: A Clinical Pharmacist's Complete Guide to Gentle Grooming

Quick Answer: Best Dog Shampoo for Sensitive Skin The best dog shampoo for sensitive skin is FurBabies™ Botanicals No-Rinse Shampoo with Rose Geranium, specifically formulated for dogs with skin sensitivities. This pharmaceutical-grade formula eliminates bath-time stress whilst providing gentle cleaning,...

dog shampoo pet shampoo

Apr 16, 2025
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What Human Shampoo Can I Use on My Dog? Clinical Pharmacist's Complete Safety Guide

By Dr. Poonum Wilkhu, MPharm, PgDiP, IP, Doctorate in Public Health Updated: June 2025 Quick Answer: Emergency Only - Here's What's Safest In true emergencies only, the safest human shampoos for dogs are fragrance-free baby shampoos like Johnson's Baby Shampoo...

Apr 10, 2025
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What is Catnip? The Ultimate Guide for Pet Parents

Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a fragrant herb from the mint family, originally from Europe and Asia, now widely available globally. Its unique appeal to cats lies in a compound called "nepetalactone," which triggers feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and playful behaviour....

Mar 28, 2025
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Why Do Cats Turn Before Lying Down? | Understanding This Fascinating Behaviour

Cats turn around before lying down due to instincts inherited from their wild ancestors, helping them check for dangers and mark their territory. This circling behavior also helps them adjust their sleeping area for comfort, conserve body heat, and clear...

Mar 28, 2025
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Do Cats Recognize Mirrors? A Deep Dive Into Feline Reflection Awareness

No, cats don't recognize themselves in mirrors. They likely see their reflection as another cat, triggering defensive or curious behaviors. Cats rely on their senses, especially smell, for identification, not visual self-awareness. If you've ever caught your cat staring at...

Mar 28, 2025
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Is Dog Jumping On and Off the Bed Bad for Their Joints? The Risks, Evidence, and Alternatives

Repetitive jumping off the bed puts significant strain on your dog’s joints, increasing the risk of early arthritis, intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), ligament injuries, and conditions like hip dysplasia. This is particularly true for breeds like German Shepherds, Labradors, and...

Mar 28, 2025
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Why Do My Dog’s Joints Click? Causes, Symptoms & When to See a Vet

Dogs' Joints Clicking: Causes, Risks & When to See a Vet Hearing your dog’s joints click or pop while stretching can be unsettling, but in many cases, it’s harmless. The occasional clicking is often due to natural joint movement or...

Feb 27, 2025
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Top 10 Pet Insurance Companies for Dogs and Cats in 2025

Compare Pet Insurance Providers Finding the right pet insurance can be a daunting task for any pet parent. Whether you have a dog, cat, or even a small pet like a rabbit, hamster, or guinea pig, choosing the best provider...

Feb 21, 2025
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Can Fleas Live in a House Without Pets?

If you're wondering, can fleas live in a house without pets, or if you have fleas or lice in hair you're not alone. Many pet owners, and even those without pets, may face the unpleasant surprise of finding fleas in their...

Feb 18, 2025
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Everything You Need to Know About Oclacitinib (Apoquel) for Dogs

In this comprehensive guide, we will address all your common questions about Apoquel, its side effects, usage, alternatives, and how to safely incorporate it into your dog’s treatment plan. What is Oclacitinib (Apoquel)? Oclacitinib is an oral medication used to...

Feb 16, 2025
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Is Cytopoint the Best Choice for Your Dog's Itchy Skin? A Comprehensive Guide

Cytopoint Injection For Dogs Cytopoint injection for dogs UK is administered subcutaneously (by injection to just under the skin) and works by binding to IL-31 (a protein in the body that plays a big role in causing itching), thereby preventing...

Feb 11, 2025
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My Dog or Cat Is Still Itching After Flea Treatment?

Cat or Dog Still Itching After Flea Treatment Flea treatments are designed to eliminate infestations and provide relief, but many pet owners find their dog or cat still itching even after treatment. This persistent scratching can be frustrating and concerning....

Feb 10, 2025
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Financial Impact of Dog & Cat Skin Allergies

Cost of Treating Skin Issues in Pets The cost of diagnosing and treating skin issues in pets can vary based on the severity of the condition, the type of treatment required, and regional pricing differences. Below is an estimate of...

Feb 10, 2025
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Understanding Vet Costs: What to Expect and Why They Vary

Understanding Vet Costs: What to Expect and Why They Vary If you’re searching for cheap vet clinics near me, it’s important to consider the range of costs outlined below. While finding affordable options is important, keep in mind that costs...

Feb 10, 2025
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My Dog or Cat Still Has Fleas After Treatment

What Should I Do? Cat flea infestation is a persistent issue, and many pet parents find themselves frustrated when my cat still has fleas after treatment. If you've treated your cat but fleas keep coming back, it's essential to understand...

Feb 10, 2025
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Understanding Flea Transmission Between Pets.

Fleas are a common nuisance for pets and pet owners alike, often leading to discomfort, itching, and potential health issues. While flea infestations are commonly associated with cats, many pet owners wonder, can dogs catch cat fleas? Understanding the nature of...

Feb 10, 2025
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What flea treatment do vets use?

Strongest flea treatments for dogs When it comes to the strongest flea treatment for dogs, there are several options that vets in the UK recommend, each with different strengths and costs. Vet-strength flea treatments like Simparica and Bravecto are commonly...

Feb 09, 2025
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A-Z Guide Flea Treatment For Dogs & Cats

Introduction As a responsible pet parent, staying on top of flea and tick prevention for your cat is crucial. Fleas not only cause discomfort but can also lead to serious health issues, such as flea allergy dermatitis, anaemia, and even transmit...

Feb 09, 2025
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Herbal Flea Treatment for Dogs & Cats: Evidence-Based Guide

Fleas are more than just a nuisance—they can cause itching, skin irritation, and even transmit diseases. While conventional flea treatments are effective, many pet parents are turning to natural flea protection for cats and natural flea treatment for dogs due to...

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