The best gifts come with four legs, bright eyes and plenty of energy, but they also need a little extra planning over the holiday season.⁠ ⁠ Here’s our checklist to help your new puppy or kitten settle in safely, confidently and calmly this Christmas.⁠ ⁠

From vaccinations and microchipping to sleep needs, separation training and holiday safety, we’ve covered the essentials so you can enjoy every joyful moment.

Arrange Vet Appointments

Early The holiday period comes with public holiday closures, limited appointments and reduced staffing. If you’re welcoming a new pet this Christmas, book your initial check-up, vaccination schedule and parasite prevention ahead of time.

Avoid High-Risk Areas Until Vaccinations Are Complete

If your puppy hasn’t finished their vaccination course, avoid high-traffic environments like beaches, dog parks and play dates with unknown pets. Your vet will let you know when it’s safe to explore the world more freely.

Pet-Proof Your Home

Tinsel, small toys, wrapping paper, ribbons and edible gifts can all pose choking or obstruction risks. Do a quick “pet-level scan” of your living spaces to remove tempting items.

Microchip + Check Your Details

Busy holidays mean open doors, visitors coming and going, and lots of distractions, making it easier for new pets to slip out unnoticed. Ensure your new puppy or kitten is microchipped early, and double-check that the registry has your current contact details.

Many pets come microchipped but not transferred to the new owner, which can delay reunions if they become lost. A quick update now can prevent a lot of stress later. 

Prevent Early Separation Anxiety

If you’re home over Christmas but returning to work soon after, your puppy won’t understand why the family suddenly disappears.

To build healthy independence, schedule short periods of calm “alone time” each day, even while everyone is home. This helps prevent separation-related behaviours forming early.

Protect Their Sleep Needs

Puppies and kittens require significant sleep for proper development. With excited kids on holidays, remind the household that your new pet is still a baby and needs quiet breaks.

Crate training (for puppies) and creating elevated safe spaces or cosy beds (for kittens) help ensure they get quality rest.

Welcoming a new pet this festive season?

Speak with the team at Happy Paws! We cannot wait to meet your new fur baby.

See our Festive Season Trading Hours >>

We are thrilled to welcome two wonderful new team members: Dr Sam, who joined us on 10 November, and CertIV nurse Bobbi.

Prior To Christmas

With Dr Sam joining the veterinary team, we are delighted to be opening up more appointment spots leading into Christmas. 

• Regular trading hours until 25 Dec
• Open every Saturday morning from 8am to 12pm

Clinic Closed For A Short Christmas Break

• The clinic will be closed from Thursday 25 December through to Thursday 1 January 2026

Need a Vet When We’re Closed?

Emergencies

If something urgent arises while we’re away, please contact one of the 24/7 emergency hospitals below:

• Animal Emergency Services Carrara – 104 Eastlake Street, Carrara 4211, Phone (07) 5559 1599
• SASH – Specialist & 24/7 Emergency Vets – 20 Scottsdale Drive, Robina 4226, Phone (07) 5584 7300

Furbaby Tips during the Festive Season

Make a Holiday Activity Plan

Between unwrapping gifts, swimming, eating pavlova and playing board games, it can be hard to give your pet the attention they deserve during Christmas. Make a plan beforehand to ensure they are entertained all day long.

• For kitty-cats, especially indoor kitties, aim for two five-minute play sessions throughout the day using dangly toys, balls, scrunched paper, cardboard boxes, interactive/treat toys, and laser pointers.
• For doggos, make some frozen, stuffed Kong treats with peanut butter or salt-reduced stock as a treat or consider organising a poochy playdate or, if they’re not a fan of noise, keep them in a cool, quiet room with food, water, toys and bedding until the guests head home … or pass out.

Christmas Food and Your Pet

With all the yummy Christmas foods coming out, an important reminder about which Christmas delicacies you can safely share with your pets.

• Dangerous items that must be taken off the menu include; cooked bones, chocolate, raisins, grapes, onions, garlic, highly fatty cuts of meat, and foods sweetened with xylitol.
• Safe seasonal foods include lean cooked meat (e.g. white turkey meat), plainly cooked veggies such as pumpkin, peas and carrots, and small amounts of cut fruit such as melon, mango, bananas or blueberries.

See a list of what to keep off their Christmas menu >>

Summer Heat Hazards

Want tips on how to help you doggo or kitty deal with summer heat hazards.

See our Hot tips to keep your pet cool and safe this Summer >>

If you’ve recently found yourself constantly refilling the water bowl or noticing much larger clumps in the litter tray, your cat isn’t just quirky—they may be giving you the most important clues about their health.

These changes are key signs of diabetes in cats, a condition that is becoming increasingly common.

Key Takeaways

The Top Feline Diabetes Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

Many owners begin their search with simple phrases like “cat drinking a lot of water” or “cat peeing a lot” (medically known as polydipsia and polyuria, respectively). While these can be signs of other issues, they are classic indicators of feline diabetes.

Here are the critical behavioral and physical signs to watch for:

• Excessive Thirst (Polydipsia): Your cat is drinking significantly more water than usual.
• Increased Urination (Polyuria): You are scooping the litter box more frequently, or the clumps are noticeably larger.
• Increased Appetite (but losing weight): This is a red flag! Searching for “cat losing weight but eating” often leads to a diabetic cat diagnosis. The body can’t use glucose for energy, so it starts burning fat and muscle.
• Lethargy or “Flatness”: A general lack of energy or being less playful than usual.
• Poor Coat Condition: A dull, unkempt, or oily coat.

Why Early Detection and Treatment Matter

A diagnosis of cat diabetes can feel overwhelming, but the good news is that with early detection and the right approach, it is a very manageable condition.

Left untreated, high blood sugar levels can lead to severe health problems, including the life-threatening condition diabetic ketoacidosis in cats (DKA).

The Goal of Cat Diabetes Treatment

The ultimate goal of managing a diabetic cat is to normalize their blood glucose levels, eliminate those uncomfortable symptoms (like excessive thirst and urination), and, in many cases, aim for feline diabetes remission.

Treatment plans generally focus on two key areas that are heavily searched:

• Insulin Therapy: Most diabetic cats require regular insulin injections, like ProZinc or Glargine. Owners often look for guidance on “how to give cat insulin injection.”
• Diet Management: A crucial component is transitioning to the best low carb cat food for diabetes to help regulate blood sugar. A high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet is often recommended.

Is Your Kitty Showing Signs?

If you’re noticing any of these changes—from your cat constantly seeking out water to unexplained weight loss—don’t wait. Early intervention is the best chance for successful management and even remission.

Book a check-up with our Cat Friendly Gold Standard Accredited team today to get the clarity and expert care your cat deserves. Your Coombabah Vets are here to help you navigate the full spectrum of diabetic cat care, from initial diagnosis to long-term feline diabetes management.

Pet dental disease is one of the most common health issues seen in dogs and cats, often starting with bad breath, red gums, or plaque build-up, and progressing to painful infections or even tooth loss if left untreated.

What many pet owners don’t realise is that dental disease doesn’t just affect the mouth — it can also impact a pet’s overall health, including their heart, liver, and kidneys.

Understanding the signs, risks, and prevention of dental disease is key to keeping your furry friend healthy, comfortable, and happy.

Key Takeaways

What is Pet Dental Disease?

Pet dental disease is an infection of the teeth and gums that’s very common in dogs and cats. It usually starts with bad breath and a build-up of plaque, which can lead to sore, swollen gums and painful teeth. If left untreated, it can make eating uncomfortable and may even affect your pet’s overall health.

The good news is, with regular dental care and check-ups, most dental disease can be prevented.

Pet Dental Pain

1 year = 7 years in dog time. Skipping their dental check-up is like ignoring yours for 7 YEARS.⁠
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The tricky part? Most pets won’t show obvious signs of dental pain, even when it’s severe. Many still eat, play, and seem “fine” on the outside.⁠ But behind the scenes, infections can build, teeth may loosen, and ongoing pain can impact their mood, energy, and overall health.⁠
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We often hear owners say their pet seems like a whole new dog after dental treatment because they were in more discomfort than anyone realised.⁠
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Don’t wait for visible signs. Be proactive and book your dog’s dental check-up and catch issues before they become painful problems.⁠

It’s not just about stinky breath.

 By the age of 3 years, 80% of our pets have dental disease.

Left untreated, it can cause pain, tooth loss, or even lead to infections in vital organs.

And here’s the tricky part: your pet probably won’t show obvious signs.

Most pets will keep eating like nothing’s wrong

Even when teeth are loose, infected, or rotting, most pets will keep eating like nothing’s wrong.

They may still show interest in food, and chew, just more carefully. You might notice they favour one side, take longer to eat, or start preferring soft food. But often, the changes are so subtle, they go unnoticed.

 ⁠Dental pain is real. And just because they’re eating, doesn’t mean their mouth is healthy.

 ⁠You won’t always see the symptoms of dental disease, but that doesn’t mean it’s not there. It’s up to us to look closer.

Pet Dental Disease Symptoms

Some more serious symptoms may include:

• Bad breath (it’s not “normal”)
• Excessive drooling or staining
• Struggling to chew or eat
• Pawing at their face or mouth
• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Loose or missing teeth
• Changes in mood or energy

If you notice even one of these, it is likely your pet is in lots of pain and we recommended acting quickly.

What happens if dental disease symptoms are ignored?

Untreated dental disease doesn’t just stay in the mouth.

• Infections can spread to the heart, liver, and kidneys
• Ongoing pain can affect mood and behaviour
• It can affect their overall quality of life

Does my pet still need regular dental checks?

Yes, even with great at-home care, your pet still needs regular dental checks.

Brushing, dental chews and water additives help but they can’t remove hardened plaque or tartar once it builds up.

That’s where professional scale and polish treatments come in. They prevent more serious issues like infection, tooth loss, and pain.

•  Annual dental checks
•  Professional cleans
•  At-home prevention in between

Dental care isn’t a “nice to have”, it’s essential for your pet’s long-term health.

Clients regularly report back to us after their pet’s dental procedure saying things like ‘Fluffy is like a kitten/puppy again” and “I had no idea that dental disease was affecting them so much!’

Not sure where your pet’s dental health stands?

Happy Paws is here to help. We strongly believe in the benefits of preventive pet dentistry to keep your pet’s mouth and the rest of their health in tip-top shape.

Book a dental check at Happy Paws and we’ll walk you through everything – no judgment, just expert care.

When cats fight, they may use their needle-sharp teeth to puncture the skin of the other cat, which drives bacteria deep into the tissue, leading to a ‘cat bite abscess’. Left untreated, these pockets of infection can burst or spread. If you notice your cat has gotten into a punch-up, make an appointment with us, so we can treat the infection before it can become too severe.

Key Takeaways

When your kitty sustains wounds from a fight, it’s crucial to seek veterinary care immediately. Here’s why:

Risk of Infection

Cat fight wounds, especially bites, are highly prone to infection. Cats’ mouths are teeming with bacteria such as Pasteurella multocida, which can be injected deep into the tissue during a bite. This creates an ideal environment for bacterial growth, often leading to infections and abscesses. Without prompt veterinary treatment, these infections can spread, becoming serious and requiring more extensive and prolonged treatment.

Abscess Formation

Abscesses are localized collections of pus that form at the site of a bite wound. Initially, the wound may appear minor, but within days, swelling, redness, and pain can indicate an abscess is forming. Left untreated, abscesses can burst, causing more significant tissue damage and increasing the risk of systemic infection. Veterinarians can drain abscesses and provide the necessary antibiotics to ensure proper healing.

Pain and Discomfort

Cat fight wounds are painful. While cats are good at hiding their pain, signs such as limping, reluctance to move, or changes in behavior indicate discomfort. A veterinarian can assess the injury’s extent, manage pain with appropriate medications, and ensure your cat stays comfortable during recovery.

Internal Injuries

Beyond external wounds, internal injuries from fights can be severe and not immediately visible. Blunt trauma can cause internal bleeding or organ injury. Deep bite wounds might puncture muscles, tendons, or even bones. A thorough veterinary exam, including diagnostic imaging like X-rays or ultrasounds, is essential to detect and treat these hidden injuries.

Disease Transmission

Cat fights can transmit serious diseases, such as rabies, which is fatal and can be spread through bites from infected animals. Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukemia virus (FeLV) can also be spread through bites. Immediate veterinary evaluation ensures your cat gets the necessary testing and post-exposure treatment to prevent these diseases.

Professional Wound Care

Proper wound care is crucial to prevent infection and promote healing. Veterinarians have the expertise to clean and debride wounds, removing foreign material and dead tissue that can impede healing. They can suture larger wounds, apply dressings, and provide guidance on at-home care to ensure proper recovery.

Antibiotics and Pain Management

Your Vet can prescribe the right antibiotics to prevent or treat infections, addressing the specific bacteria involved. They can also prescribe pain relief medications safe for cats, ensuring effective pain management and improving your cat’s quality of life during recovery.

Preventing Complications

Untreated cat fight wounds can lead to severe complications, including septicemia (a life-threatening systemic infection), osteomyelitis (bone infection), and chronic pain. Prompt veterinary care helps prevent these complications, ensuring your cat recovers fully and quickly. Early intervention can also minimize the need for more extensive and costly treatments later.

Monitoring Healing

Veterinarians provide follow-up care to monitor the healing process, ensuring the wound is recovering as expected. They can detect any signs of complications early and adjust the treatment plan as necessary. This professional oversight is crucial for a successful recovery.

Does Your Kitty have a Cat Fight Wound?

If yes, seek immediate veterinary care by getting in touch with us. Wounds need to be treated as soon as possible to avoid serious infection and tissue damage. The risks of infection, abscess formation, internal injuries, and disease transmission, along with the need for professional wound care and pain management, means you should act quickly.

Book an Appointment with us as soon as possible to ensure your furbaby  gets the best care, preventing complications and promoting a swift recovery.

After all, they’re already perfect in our eyes, regardless of their size! But because we want our beloved companions to live their longest, happiest lives, it’s worth knowing how to spot those subtle signs of weight gain before they impact your pet’s health and mobility.
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The truth is that overweight pets are more prone to joint issues, heart strain, and reduced quality of life. And while the cuddly look might seem cute, the risks beneath the surface are anything but.⁠

How To Tell If My Cat or Dog Is Overweight?

We all love to spoil our furry family members, but sometimes those extra treats and cozy lounging sessions can add up around their middles! As pet parents, it can be tricky to tell when our cats and dogs have crossed the line from pleasantly plump to potentially unhealthy.

So if you’re wondering if your pet might be carrying a little extra love around the middle, then let’s check together!

Run your fingers gently through your pet’s fur—you should be able to feel their ribs with a light touch, like they’re hiding under a thin blanket. Take a peek at your buddy from above—do they have that cute little tuck at the waistline, or has their silhouette become more of a lovable oval?

Those adorable rolls and pouches might be more than just extra cuddle material! Don’t worry though—many pets (just like us humans!) find themselves carrying a few extra ounces of happiness, and spotting it early is the first step to helping them feel their bouncy best again!

Here are a few things to keep in mind as a Pet Parent

• ⁠Treats count! Your pet has a daily energy intake, so every snack adds up.⁠
• Pro tip: Use a portion of their meal as training treats to avoid overfeeding.⁠
• Quality nutrition matters. A well-balanced, high-quality diet makes all the difference.⁠

Possibly Already Overweight?

Before you panic or put Fluffy on a crash diet, have a chat with us! We can give you the real scoop on whether your pet needs a lifestyle tweak. We can rule out any sneaky health issues that might be behind the weight gain and help create a loving plan to get your buddy back to their bouncy best.

So if you’re unsure where to start, Happy Paws Vet is here to support you with tailored diet plans, weight checks, and advice specific to your pet’s needs.⁠ Because helping them live longer, healthier lives is the ultimate act of love.

Remember, helping your pet maintain a healthy weight is one of the sweetest ways to show your love—it means more energy for playtime, less strain on those precious joints, and more happy years together curled up on the couch. And when it comes to weight loss, slow and steady wins the race for our furry friends!

Those with weakened immune systems should take extra care, especially when handling faeces or administering medication.⁠

What Is Giardia?

Giardia is a microscopic parasite that infects the intestines, causing gastrointestinal issues in dogs. It spreads through contaminated water, food, or surfaces and can even be passed between pets.

Symptoms of Giardia in Dogs

• Diarrhoea (sometimes foul-smelling or greasy)
• Vomiting
• Weight loss or poor appetite
• Lethargy
• Dehydration

How Do Dogs Get Giardia?

Giardia spreads easily, especially in areas where dogs interact or drink from shared water sources. Your pup can pick up this pesky parasite in several ways, often without you even realising it! Here’s how Giardia in spread:

• Drinking contaminated water (puddles, lakes, streams, or infected bowls)
• Contact with infected faeces (even microscopic amounts)
• Licking contaminated surfaces or grooming after exposure
• Being in high-risk areas like dog parks, kennels, or shared water bowls

If Left Untreated, What Can Giardia Cause?

• Severe dehydration
• Chronic diarrhea & weight loss
• Weakened immune system
• Risk of spreading to other pets in the household

How to Protect Your Pup from Giardia?

• Always provide clean, fresh water
• Avoid stagnant puddles or shared bowls in public places
• Pick up and dispose of poop properly
• Keep food and water bowls clean & sanitised
• Visit your vet if your dog shows symptoms

Does Your Woofer Need a Check-Up?

⁠🐶 Chat to a Happy Paws Vet to learn more. Book a check up for your furbaby if symptoms exist.

⁠Key Indicators That Your Kitty Is Unwell

There are several key indicators to watch for that might suggest your feline friend isn’t feeling their best. Knowing what to look for can help you catch problems early and keep your kitty as happy and healthy as possible.⁠

There are several key indicators to watch for that may suggest your cat is not feeling well or is in pain

Behavioural Signs

• Lethargy: If your cat is unusually tired, less playful, or hiding more than usual.
• Behavioural Shifts: Uncharacteristic aggression, withdrawal, or increased vocalisation.
• Excessive Grooming or Lack of Grooming: Over-grooming or neglecting grooming can suggest stress, pain, or health concerns.

Appetite and Weight Changes

• Changes in Appetite: A sudden loss of appetite or excessive eating can be a sign of an underlying issue.
• Weight Loss or Weight Gain: Either extreme can be a red flag for conditions like thyroid issues, diabetes, or other metabolic disorders.

Digestive and Litter Box Habits

• Changes in Litter Box Habits: Any changes in urination or defecation habits, such as straining, accidents outside the litter box, or unusually frequent trips.
• Vomiting or diarrhoea: Occasional hairballs are normal, but frequent vomiting or diarrhoea isn’t.

Physical Signs of Pain or Discomfort

• Visible Pain: If your cat is limping, vocalising when touched, or having difficulty moving, they may be in pain.
• Changes in Coat Condition: A dull, dry, or patchy coat could indicate nutritional deficiencies, a skin condition, or other health issues.

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Getting Professional Assistance

Since cats are masters of disguise, regular vet visits become even more important. Our team can often spot things your cat might be trying to hide and take a proactive approach to help nip any issues in the bud. Prevention is always the best medicine!⁠
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As a Gold Standard Accredited Cat Friendly Clinic, we specialise in feline care and keeping your kitty comfortable and stress-free during visits.

The Happy Paws Vet Clinic team in Coombabah are here to help. Get in touch to book a health check up for your kitty-cat.

Here’s what to keep off their Christmas menu:⁠

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🎄 Rich, fatty meats – These can cause pancreatitis or trigger serious conditions like HGE.⁠

🎄 Raisins – Found in fruitcakes, mince pies, and puddings, these are highly toxic to dogs.⁠

🎄 Chocolate – A festive favourite for humans but dangerous for pups.⁠

🎄 Dairy products – Dogs struggle to digest lactose, so skip the cheesy treats!⁠

🎄 Cooked bones – They can splinter and cause intestinal blockages or injuries and can break or fracture their teeth!⁠

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Keep their tails wagging by sticking to pet-safe snacks and extra cuddles this Christmas!

Christmas / New Year Trading Hours

Please note, Happy Paws Vet clinic will be closed from Thursday 25 December through to Thursday 1 January 2026 (read more)

Emergencies

If your pet needs urgent veterinary care on days we are closed, please contact:

• Animal Emergency Services Carrara – 104 Eastlake Street, Carrara 4211, Phone (07) 5559 1599
• SASH – Specialist & 24/7 Emergency Vets – 20 Scottsdale Drive, Robina 4226, Phone (07) 5584 7300

We want our Happy Paws family to stay one step ahead and keep their four-legged besties safe, so every wag and woof this season is pure joy! ⁠

Top Tips For Looking After Your Furbaby During Summer

To prevent some common hot-weather and warm-weather hazards from raining on your pet’s parade, our vets suggest following these summer safety tips.

1. Hydration and Shade

Always ensure your dog has access to fresh, clean water and a shaded, cool area to rest.  Whether inside or outside, provide a space where they can stay comfortable and safe from the heat. This includes outings! Bring portable bowls and fresh water to keep your fur baby hydrated.

• Put out an extra bowl in case one gets knocked over.
• Pop in some ice cubes to keep the water chilled.

2. Avoid Hot Pavement – Consider Their Paws and Heat Risk

We see far too many dogs walking during peak temperatures, risking their paws and their health. Use the back of your hand to test the ground before any outdoor activity. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them! Avoid walking during peak heat and skip the walk if needed. Consider cooler times like early morning or late evening.

3. Know the Signs of Heatstroke

Heatstroke happens when a dog’s body cannot cool down fast enough to regulate their temperature, often due to excessive heat exposure or physical exertion. When temperatures rise or exercise becomes too intense, they can quickly overheat. Excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, bright red gums, uncoordinated movements, or even collapse.

If you suspect heatstroke, move your dog to a cool, shaded area. Use a damp towel to cool their body, focusing on areas like their neck, armpits, and belly. Contact your vet immediately, as heatstroke can escalate rapidly and become life-threatening. Read more about Pet Heat Stroke and Heat Stress.

4. Monitor Playtime – Don’t Overdo It!

Tenacious pooches often don’t know when enough is enough! Be their advocate by supervising their play and minimising the risk of overexertion. Keep play sessions short, avoid the hottest parts of the day, and ensure they take breaks to cool off.

5. Beach safety

Summer means beach days, but more people and more dogs can mean less control over the environment. Crowded beaches increase the risk of altercations, as unpredictable behaviours from other dogs can lead to serious incidents. Even if your dog is social and well-behaved, they need your advocacy to stay safe.

Consider quieter spots to minimise stress and ensure a positive, safe experience for everyone. Stay alert and proactive to protect your pup! Dogs can get saltwater poisoning from drinking too much seawater. Symptoms are vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy and neurologic signs, which can be very serious and progress to seizures!

6. Fur babies and Hot Cars

Never leave your pet in the car even on a mild day as the internal temperature of a car can become like an oven in minutes.

It can take just 6 minutes for an animal to die in a hot car so don’t risk it! Temperatures in a car can reach more than double the outside temp even on mild days, and even if you park in the shade or leave windows open. Dogs can also overheat when left on the back of a ute, including burning their feet or other body parts on the ute tray.

7. Exercise ONLY in the Cool

Never exercise your pet in the heat of the day and skip exercise altogether on extremely hot days.

• Only exercise your pet in the cooler early morning and evening, and keep exercise light. Stick to shaded areas, avoid hot sand, concrete, asphalt areas or areas where heat is reflected.
• Check if the ground is too hot by placing the back of your hand on the surface for five seconds and if it’s too hot for you, then it’s too hot for your dog!
• Stop walks / exercising if you notice your pet are panting heavily.

8. A/C Is Not Just for Fur Parents

On hot (over 28°C) or very humid days, keep your pet indoors with a fan or air-conditioning (especially important for at-risk pets).

• Provide access to shade in a well-ventilated area
• Set up a clam shell pool (it only needs to be deep enough to wet their paws and belly)
• Create a pupsicle or use a Kong (here’s some ideas)

9. Clip Clip Clip

If your pet has a thick coat, consider a full summer clip to help them stay cool.

Together, let’s keep our pets safe this summer – and all year around.