Interesting Facts & Animal Care Tips

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Eye infections in cats 🐈 

Why Eye Infections in Cats Take Time to Heal

If you've ever seen a cat with a watery, swollen, or sore-looking eye, it's natural to feel concerned. But did you know that eye infections in cats  especially rescue cats can take weeks or even months to fully heal?

In the rescue work we do, we see so many cats come in with eye infections. Even with proper vet care, medications, and daily support, healing doesn’t happen overnight. Some cats improve quickly, others take much longer  and a few may need ongoing care.

Here’s why these infections aren’t always a quick fix:

Cats’ Eyes Are Delicate

Eye tissue is very sensitive. Even a mild infection or injury can take time to heal properly — and if it's been left untreated before rescue, the recovery may take even longer.

Some Infections Keep Coming Back

Many cats carry Feline Herpesvirus (FHV), which stays in their system for life. It can flare up during times of stress, cold weather, or illness, causing eye symptoms to return again and again.

Weakened Immune Systems Slow Down Healing

Stray or rescue cats are often malnourished, stressed, or recovering from other illnesses, which weakens their immune system. This makes it harder for their bodies to fight off infections.

Not All Treatments Work the Same

Every cat is different. What works well for one may not work at all for another. Finding the right eye drops, ointment, or antiviral medication can take trial and error.

Some Cats Hide Illness Until They Feel Safe

Cats, especially Free Roamers or those with limited human contact, often hide signs of illness. In many cases, eye problems are only noticed once the cat starts to relax and feel safe  which may already be days or weeks after arriving in rescue.

❤️ Be Patient Healing Takes Time

If you’re fostering, adopting, or caring for a cat with an eye infection, know that recovery can be slow  but with proper treatment, a calm environment, and plenty of love, most cats go on to live happy, healthy lives.

If you’re ever unsure, always speak to your vet. But remember: a slow recovery doesn’t mean a cat isn’t being cared for  it just means their body needs more time to heal.

Why Pregnant and Nursing Cats May Develop Health Issues

A heavily pregnant or nursing cat might appear perfectly healthy — eating well, grooming, and caring for her kittens. But it’s not uncommon for health issues to develop after birth or during weaning, even in cats that seemed “fine” at first.

This can happen to any cat

Why does this happen?

Pregnancy and birth weaken the immune system, making mums more vulnerable to infections and flare-ups

Cats are instinctively good at hiding symptoms, especially while focusing on their kittens' care

Certain infections can be passed between mother and kittens, sometimes going unnoticed until symptoms develop in both

It’s important to monitor mum cats closely during and after this period — even if they seem well.

With rest, gentle veterinary care, good nutrition, and time, most cats recover fully and go on to enjoy a healthy, happy life.

If you notice signs of illness (such as eye discharge, sneezing, reduced appetite, or lethargy), always speak to your vet for advice.

🐾 Understanding the 3-3-3 Rule in Rehoming

Adopting a cat means patience — they need time to settle and feel safe. The 3-3-3 Rule helps explain this:

3 Days to decompress and feel safe

3 Weeks to settle into routines

3 Months to fully feel at home and show their true personality

Adjustment times vary — Free Roamers or nervous cats may take longer. We’re always here to help.

Important  information  on the Dangers of Putting a Nappy on a Cat

Nappies  are not for cats, and using them can lead to serious health and welfare problems.

Here’s what can go wrong:

Skin Damage & Infections
Nappies trap urine and faeces against the skin, causing painful rashes, burns, and infections — especially around the tail and hind legs.

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
Holding moisture close to the body increases bacteria, leading to UTIs that may go unnoticed until the cat becomes seriously ill.

 Restricted Movement
Cats rely on flexibility and freedom to move, stretch, jump, and clean themselves. A nappy can cause pain, muscle strain, or joint problems.

Stress and Mental Distress
Cats are naturally clean animals. Being unable to groom or toilet properly can cause anxiety, frustration, and behavioural issues.

Overheating
Nappies trap body heat, especially in long-haired breeds, leading to discomfort or heat-related health problems.

❗Even cats with food intolerances should never wear nappies.

What to Do Instead

If a cat is having accidents or struggling to toilet:

See a vet  this may be a sign of illness, injury, or age-related issues

Use puppy pads or soft washable bedding for easier clean-up

Ensure litter trays are low, easy to access, and clean

Never attach anything to the cat’s body — it’s not safe

A nappy is never the solution

With proper care, cats with mobility or medical needs can still live full, comfortable lives  without nappies.

Why Vaccinations Are Vita for Rabbits 

Rabbits are at risk of three deadly diseases, and the only reliable way to protect them is through vaccination.

These diseases include:

Myxomatosis

A viral disease spread by fleas, mosquitoes, or direct contact with infected rabbits. Causes swelling, eye discharge, breathing problems, and sadly, is usually fatal without vaccination.

RVHD1 (Rabbit Viral Haemorrhagic Disease Type 1)

A highly contagious virus causing severe internal bleeding with little or no warning signs — often leading to sudden death.

RVHD2 (Rabbit Viral Haemorrhagic Disease Type 2)

A newer strain, RVHD2 spreads quickly and affects rabbits of all ages, including babies. Like RVHD1, it can cause sudden death or show mild symptoms like lethargy or bleeding.

Both indoor and outdoor rabbits are at risk.
These viruses can be carried into homes on hay, shoes, or clothing.
Regular vaccinations are the only protection 

Caring for Rabbits & Guinea Pigs – What They Really Need

At Little Souls Rabbit & Guinea Pig Rescue & Sanctuary, our mission is simple:
every little life deserves the very best care, love, and respect.

Food Needs for Rabbits and Guinea Pigs

Rabbit  Need:

Unlimited Fresh Hay – Around 80% of their diet! Perfect for healthy teeth and digestion.

Daily Fresh Greens – Think spring greens, kale, parsley, and coriander.

Small Amounts of Rabbit-Safe Pellets – Avoid muesli mixes, which are unhealthy.

Clean Fresh Water – Provided daily in a bowl or bottle.

Occasional Treats – Tiny amounts of apple, carrot, or fresh herbs.


Avoid: Human snacks, bread, seeds, cereals, sugary fruit, or toxic foods like chocolate.

Guinea Pigs Need:

Unlimited Fresh Hay – Just as essential for guinea pigs as it is for rabbits.

Vitamin C-Rich Veggies – Bell peppers, parsley, broccoli, kale.

Guinea Pig Pellets – Designed specifically for their needs.

Clean Fresh Water – Always available.


Never give: Potato, onion, rhubarb, or anything sharp, sticky, or unsafe.

HOUSING & SPACE (RSPCA Recommendations)

A cage is not a home. Rabbits and guinea pigs need plenty of space to run, explore, and express natural behaviours.

Rabbits:

Hutch: At least 6ft (L) x 2ft (H) x 2ft (D)

Attached Run: At least 8ft x 6ft x 2ft – giving them 24/7 access to 60 sq ft of space.

Enrichment: Add tunnels, hides, platforms, and dig boxes.

Safety: The hutch must be waterproof, fox-proof, and fully secure.


Guinea Pigs:

Indoor Cage: Minimum 120cm x 60cm (bigger is better!).

Exercise Time: Daily time in a secure run (indoor or outdoor).

Enrichment: Tunnels, hides, hay piles, and chew toys to keep them happy and active.

REMEMBER:

Rabbits and guinea pigs are social animals. They thrive with companionship and routine.

They are a long-term commitment — needing regular vet care, enrichment, and love.

At Little Souls Rescue and Sanctuary, we believe that giving every cat  the best start in life begins with the right care, love, and information. Whether you’re a new cat owner or simply want to make sure you’re doing everything you can for your feline friend, this page will guide you with simple, trusted advice.

Neutering Advice

We strongly recommend that all cats are neutered from four months of age. This may surprise some people, as kittens still seem so small — but the truth is they can become pregnant as early as four months old.

For male kittens, neutering is usually advised when they reach a healthy weight of 2kg, to ensure the procedure is safe and successful.

Neutering has many benefits:
Prevents unwanted litters
Reduces the risk of certain health problems
Helps stop unwanted behaviours like spraying, roaming, and fighting
Plays a vital part in reducing the number of stray and homeless cats

If you’re unsure when to neuter your cat or kitten, feel free to contact us — we're always happy to offer guidance and support. 

Important Microchip Law Info for Cat Owners & Fosterers (England & UK-Wide)

 Microchipping is now the law
From 10 June 2024, all owned cats must be microchipped by 20 weeks of age with up-to-date keeper details.

 Only the registered keeper can update microchip details
By law, only the person or rescue listed on the chip can make changes not a fosterer or new carer unless officially transferred.

Fostering does not mean ownership
If you're fostering, the rescue remains the legal owner unless there’s a signed ownership transfer.

Keeping microchip details up to date is vital
If your contact info changes  like phone number or address it’s your legal duty to update the chip record right away to avoid delays in reuniting lost pets.

 Changing microchip details without permission = legal risk
Doing so without consent could be considered fraud or theft, and may lead to civil or criminal action.

Always contact the rescue or your chip database to make updates the right way.

Sometimes, wild animals such as birds or hedgehogs may be found sick, injured, or orphaned. It’s only natural to want to help, and short-term care can make the difference between life and death. But once that animal is well enough, the kindest and most responsible thing we can do is return it to its natural wild home.

Wild animals are not pets. Birds need the open sky. Hedgehogs need space to forage and roam under cover of darkness. Foxes, squirrels, and many other species have strong natural instincts that simply can’t be met in a garden, hutch, or home no matter how well-meaning the care may be.

Even when they seem calm, wild animals can suffer silently in captivity. They may stop eating, become anxious, or lose essential survival skills. The longer they remain away from the wild, the harder it can be for them to reintegrate.
 
What the Law Says

In the UK, the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 protects most native wild animals. It allows injured or sick wild creatures to be taken in only for the purpose of rehabilitation Once the animal is fit enough to survive independently, it must legally be released back into the wild. Keeping a wild animal beyond this point, without a special licence, is against the law.

The Animal Welfare Act 2006 also applies. This law states that any animal in human care must have their welfare needs met. That includes the ability to express natural behaviours something that’s often impossible for wild species in a domestic or captive setting.
 
Why Release Is the Right Thing to Do

Returning animals to the wild isn’t just about following the law it’s also in their best interest. Wild creatures play vital roles in the natural world:


Hedgehogs help control insect populations

Birds help with pollination and seed dispersal

Predators help maintain balance in the ecosystem

Keeping them out of the wild disrupts that balance and reduces their chances of living a full, natural life.

Many people don’t realise just how quickly a female cat can become pregnant again after giving birth. In fact, a cat can go back into heat as little as 1–2 weeks after having kittens even while she is still feeding them. This is called a back-to-back pregnancy, and it can be very harmful for both the mother and her babies.

Why It’s a Problem

Health risks to mum: Pregnancy and nursing take a huge toll on a cat’s body. If she becomes pregnant again straight after giving birth, she won’t have time to recover, putting her at risk of malnutrition, infections, and complications during birth.

Risks to the kittens she already has: The mother will have to split her energy between feeding her current litter and supporting her new pregnancy. This often means the first kittens won’t get the nutrition they need, leading to slower growth, illness, or even loss of life.

Overpopulation: Back-to-back pregnancies contribute to the growing number of unwanted cats and kittens needing rescue spaces.

How Quickly Can It Happen?

Cats are very efficient breeders.

A female can become pregnant while still nursing kittens.

Heat cycles can return in as little as 10–14 days after birth.

Without intervention, one female cat and her offspring can lead to hundreds of kittens in just a few years.

When Can You Spay After Birth?

Your vet can advise on the best time for spaying after kittens are born, but in many cases:

Mum can be spayed once the kittens are weaned (around 8–10 weeks old).

In some cases, vets can spay as soon as the kittens are eating solids and no longer fully dependent on mum’s milk.

Spaying promptly prevents another pregnancy and gives mum time to rest, recover, and live a healthier, longer life.

If Your Cat Goes Outside After Giving Birth

If your cat has recently given birth and gets outside   assume she could already be pregnant.

Contact your vet straight away for advice.

Keep her indoors and away from unneutered males until she has been spayed.

Remember: Even if she is still nursing, she can become pregnant again.

The best way to protect your cat and her kittens is to spay her as soon as your vet advises after birth.
This ensures she stays healthy, her kittens get the best start in life, and we can all help reduce the number of cats in need of rescue spaces.

At Little Souls Rescue and Sanctuary, we believe in sharing knowledge to help more cats live happy, healthy lives. One of the lesser-known conditions we see in rescue cats is Pillow Foot, also called Plasma Cell Pododermatitis.

What Is Pillow Foot?

Pillow Foot is an inflammatory condition that affects a cat’s paw pads. It causes them to become swollen, soft, and sometimes painful, making them look and feel “pillow-like.” The condition can affect one paw or several and may cause discomfort when walking or standing.

Common Signs to Watch For

If you notice any of the following in your cat, it’s important to contact your vet:

Swollen, puffy, or soft paw pads

Pads appearing purple, shiny, or spongy

Cracks, ulcers, or scabs on the pads

Limping or reluctance to walk

Excessive licking or biting of the paws


Treatment and Veterinary Care

Pillow Foot is treatable with the right veterinary support. Treatment often includes:

Antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medication prescribed by a vet

Soft bedding to reduce pressure and protect the pads

Regular monitoring to ensure healing and prevent flare-ups

In some cases, dietary support or immune-modulating medication may be recommended


Most cats respond very well to treatment and go on to live comfortable, happy lives.

Caring for Cats with Pillow Foot

Cats with this condition need gentle handling, patience, and understanding. At Little Souls Rescue and Sanctuary, we provide each cat with a calm, loving environment and veterinary care tailored to their needs.

By raising awareness of Pillow Foot, we hope more cats will receive early diagnosis and treatment — reducing pain and improving quality of life.

If you’d like to support our ongoing work helping cats with medical needs, you can donate 

Please  contact  littlesoulsrescue@gmail.com 

Because every soul deserves a chance.

At Little Souls Rescue and Sanctuary, we believe that sharing knowledge saves lives — even the tiniest ones. One common but often misunderstood condition in guinea pigs is fecal impaction.

What Is Fecal Impaction?

Fecal impaction happens when a guinea pig, usually an older male (boar), cannot pass droppings (poos) properly. The soft droppings can build up inside the anal sac and become compacted, making it uncomfortable or even painful for your guinea pig to pass waste.

Signs to Watch For

Straining or difficulty passing droppings
A swollen or firm area around the bottom
Decrease in normal poo production
Sitting uncomfortably or squeaking when toileting
Loss of appetite or energy
Wet, sticky, or smelly droppings stuck around the anal area

If you notice any of these symptoms, your guinea pig needs gentle help right away.

How It’s Treated

A vet can confirm if your guinea pig is impacted and show you how to safely help remove the build-up if needed. This may involve:

Manual cleaning: Gently massaging or cleaning the anal sac with warm water and cotton wool.

Dietary adjustments: Ensuring plenty of high-fibre hay and fresh water to keep the gut moving.

Vet care: In more serious cases, your guinea pig may need medication or further treatment.

Never force or squeeze the area roughly — this can cause injury.

Prevention Tips

Feed a high-fibre diet (mainly hay) to keep the digestive system healthy.
Encourage regular movement and exercise.
Check older boars daily — they are most at risk.
Keep bottoms clean and dry to prevent infection or flystrike.

Remember

Fecal impaction is not your guinea pig’s fault — it’s often a natural part of ageing. With gentle care, regular checks, and a loving home, many guinea pigs live comfortably for years even with this condition.

If you ever have doubts, always reach out to a small animal–experienced vet 

Have you ever seen a kitten with a silvery, frosted-looking coat?  That magical shimmer is called Fever Coat — and while it might look beautiful, it actually tells a story about what happened before the kitten was born.

What Causes Fever Coat?

Fever Coat develops while kittens are still in their mother’s womb. If the mother cat experiences stress, illness, or a fever during pregnancy, it can affect the way her kittens’ fur pigments form. The result is a coat that looks grey, silver, or smoky, even if the kitten will later have a completely different colour.

For example:

A black kitten may be born looking silver-grey.

A tabby kitten might appear pale or washed-out.

Sometimes the fur has white or cream streaks through it.


It’s not a separate breed or condition — just a temporary effect caused by what the mum went through before birth. ❤️

🐾 Does Fever Coat Affect the Kitten’s Health?

Good news — Fever Coat doesn’t harm the kitten at all!
It’s purely cosmetic and will fade over time as the new fur grows in. Most kittens lose their Fever Coat by the time they’re around 6–12 weeks old, revealing their true colours underneath.

🌈 Why We Share This

At Little Souls Animal Rescue & Sanctuary, we sometimes take in kittens born with Fever Coat  especially when their mums have been rescued from difficult or stressful situations. It’s a gentle reminder of what they’ve overcome, and a sign of their strength and resilience.

As their real coat grows in, it’s like watching them shed their past and step into their new, brighter future — one filled with love, warmth, and safety.