Common Pet Health Problems in Crawley and Horsham: Local Risks, Prevention and When to See a Vet

Our pets are very much part of the family, and as a local practice, we know that pet owners in Crawley, Horsham, Southwater, Ockley, Cranleigh, East Grinstead and Worthing want straightforward, trustworthy advice to help keep them healthy. While many pet health issues are common across the UK, some risks can be influenced by our local environment, lifestyle and seasonal changes.

In this article, we look at some of the most common pet health problems we see in dogs, cats and small pets in our local area, how to spot early warning signs, and what you can do to help prevent them. We will also highlight when it is best to seek veterinary advice.

This article is intended for general guidance only. If your pet is unwell or showing concerning symptoms, please contact your vet for professional advice.

Why local pet health risks matter

Pets in Crawley, Horsham and the surrounding areas enjoy a wonderful mix of town life, parks, woodland walks, open countryside and gardens. While this gives them plenty of opportunities for exercise and enrichment, it can also increase exposure to parasites, seasonal allergies, wildlife-related injuries and infectious diseases.

At Arthur Lodge Vets, we believe prevention and early action are the best ways to protect your pet’s health. Regular check-ups, vaccinations, parasite control and prompt attention to changes in behaviour can make a real difference.

Parasites: fleas, ticks and worms

Parasites are one of the most common health issues affecting pets in our area. Dogs that enjoy walks through local fields and woodland, cats that roam outdoors, and even indoor pets can all be at risk.

Fleas

Fleas can cause intense itching, skin irritation and allergic reactions. In some pets, just one flea bite can trigger significant discomfort. Fleas can also spread quickly through the home and may affect rabbits and other small pets too.

Signs to look out for include:

• Scratching, biting or over-grooming
• Hair loss or sore skin
• Small black specks in the coat, often called flea dirt
• Restlessness or discomfort

Ticks

Ticks are often picked up in grassy or wooded areas. They attach to the skin to feed and may transmit infections. Dogs are particularly at risk after countryside walks, but cats can also be affected.

Check your pet regularly, especially around the ears, neck, face and between the toes.

Worms

Intestinal worms are common in both dogs and cats. Puppies and kittens are especially vulnerable, but adult pets need routine treatment too. Worms may not always cause obvious symptoms, though some pets develop weight loss, diarrhoea or a swollen abdomen.

Good parasite prevention is an important part of routine care. You can learn more about our preventative healthcare services and ongoing support through our VIP Health Plan.

Skin problems and allergies

Skin issues are another frequent reason pets visit us. In Crawley and Horsham, we often see flare-ups linked to pollen, grass, fleas and environmental irritants, especially during the warmer months.

Dogs may develop itchy ears, red skin, licking of the paws or recurrent ear infections. Cats may over-groom and develop bald patches or sore areas. Small pets can also suffer from skin mites and irritation.

Common early signs include:

• Persistent scratching or licking
• Redness, rashes or scabs
• Unpleasant skin odour
• Hair loss
• Head shaking or ear rubbing

Skin disease can have several causes, so it is important not to guess. Early examination can help us identify whether the issue is related to parasites, allergy, infection or another underlying problem.

Ear infections

Ear infections are especially common in dogs, particularly those with floppy ears, pets that swim regularly, or dogs with allergies. They can be very uncomfortable and may worsen if left untreated.

Watch for:

• Head shaking
• Scratching at the ears
• Redness or swelling
• A bad smell from the ears
• Sensitivity when the ears are touched

If you notice these symptoms, it is best to have your pet seen promptly. Ear problems can become more painful over time and may recur if the cause is not properly addressed. Our health checks and clinics can help pick up recurring issues early.

Digestive upsets

Vomiting and diarrhoea are common in dogs and cats and can happen for many reasons, from eating something unsuitable on a walk to infection, parasites or a more serious health problem. Small pets such as rabbits and guinea pigs can also become very unwell if their appetite drops or their droppings change.

In dogs, scavenging is a particular local risk, especially in parks, footpaths and public areas where discarded food or other substances may be found. Cats may also develop digestive issues through diet changes or underlying illness.

You should contact a vet if your pet:

• Has repeated vomiting or diarrhoea
• Seems lethargic or weak
• Stops eating or drinking
• Has blood in their vomit or faeces
• Is very young, elderly or has existing health conditions

Rabbits that stop eating or producing droppings should always be treated as urgent, as this can be a sign of gut slowdown, which can become serious quickly.

Dental disease

Dental disease is one of the most overlooked pet health problems. Many dogs, cats and small pets show signs of oral discomfort long before owners realise there is a problem. Bad breath is often the first clue, but it should not be dismissed as normal.

Signs of dental trouble include:

• Bad breath
• Tartar build-up on the teeth
• Red or bleeding gums
• Difficulty eating
• Dropping food
• Reluctance to be touched around the mouth

Regular dental checks are an important part of your pet’s care. If left untreated, dental disease can lead to pain, infection and difficulty eating. Booking routine examinations through our online booking page can help keep problems from progressing unnoticed.

Weight gain and obesity

Weight gain is a growing issue in pets across the UK, including here in West Sussex and the surrounding areas. Extra weight can put strain on joints, reduce mobility, and increase the risk of other health conditions such as diabetes and heart disease.

Pets often gain weight gradually, making it easy to miss. A regular weight check can be very helpful, especially for neutered pets, older animals or those with lower activity levels.

You can help by:

• Feeding measured portions
• Avoiding too many treats
• Choosing a balanced diet suited to your pet’s age and lifestyle
• Keeping up regular exercise and play
• Arranging routine weight and health checks

If you are unsure whether your pet is a healthy weight, we are happy to advise during a consultation or clinic visit.

Lameness, joint pain and injuries

Our local area offers excellent walking routes, but active dogs can sometimes pick up strains, sprains, grass seed problems or paw injuries. Older dogs and cats may also develop arthritis, which is a common condition causing stiff, painful joints.

Signs to watch for include:

• Limping or stiffness
• Slowing down on walks
• Difficulty getting up, jumping or climbing stairs
• Reluctance to play
• Swollen paws or excessive licking of the feet

Grass seeds are a particular seasonal problem in spring and summer. They can lodge in paws, ears, eyes or skin and cause irritation and infection. Checking your dog after walks is a simple but valuable habit.

If your pet has sudden lameness, severe pain or a suspected injury, please seek veterinary advice as soon as possible. In urgent situations, visit our emergency vet care page for guidance.

Seasonal problems: heat, pollen and wildlife hazards

Seasonal changes bring different health risks for pets in Crawley, Horsham and nearby areas.

During warmer weather

• Dogs may be at risk of heatstroke, especially during hot walks or in enclosed spaces
• Fleas and ticks become more active
• Grass seeds are more common
• Pets with allergies may become itchier

During colder months

• Arthritis may become more noticeable
• Older pets may be less mobile
• Outdoor cats and small pets need extra shelter and warmth

Wildlife encounters can also cause injuries, particularly in cats, dogs and rabbits that spend time outdoors. Bites, stings and abscesses should always be assessed if your pet seems painful, swollen or unwell.

The importance of vaccinations and routine checks

Preventing disease is always better than treating it after your pet becomes unwell. Vaccinations, parasite prevention and regular health checks all play an important role in keeping pets well.

If you have recently welcomed a new pet into your family, our puppy and kitten health checks provide a helpful start. If you are new to the area, you can also register your pet with Arthur Lodge Vets online.

Routine care is especially valuable because pets are very good at hiding pain or illness. A small change in appetite, behaviour or energy may be the first sign that something is not right.

When should you see a vet?

It is always sensible to contact your vet if you are worried, but we particularly recommend seeking advice if your pet has:

• Ongoing itching, scratching or skin changes
• Vomiting or diarrhoea that does not resolve quickly
• Limping, pain or stiffness
• Changes in appetite, thirst or weight
• Bad breath or difficulty eating
• Ear problems, head shaking or discharge
• Sudden changes in behaviour or energy levels

Early attention often means simpler treatment and better outcomes for your pet.

How we can help at Arthur Lodge Vets

At Arthur Lodge Vets, we are proud to support pet owners across Horsham, Southwater, Ockley, Crawley, Cranleigh, East Grinstead and Worthing with friendly, practical veterinary care. Whether your pet needs a routine check-up, advice on prevention, or treatment for a more complex condition, our team is here to help.

You can explore our full range of veterinary services, find out more about us, or contact us if you would like to speak to our team.

Final thoughts

Many common pet health problems can be managed more easily when they are spotted early and supported with good preventative care. By knowing what to look out for and staying on top of routine health needs, you can help your pet enjoy a happier, healthier life.

If you have any concerns about your dog, cat or small pet, we are always happy to advise. To arrange an appointment, please use our online booking system or visit Arthur Lodge Vets to learn more about our services and local practice.

Arthur Lodge Vets