Common Pet Health Problems in South West London

Quick Answer: Common pet health problems in Tooting and South West London include itching and skin allergies, ear infections, dental disease, weight gain, stomach upsets, parasites, arthritis and breathing issues in flat-faced breeds. Regular check-ups, vaccinations, parasite control, dental care and early veterinary advice can help prevent many of these problems or spot them sooner.

Introduction

Pet owners in Tooting and across South West London often ask us which health problems we see most often in local dogs, cats, rabbits and small pets. While every animal is different, there are some common patterns linked to lifestyle, age, breed, environment and routine care.

At Tooting Vets, we regularly help local pet owners with everyday health concerns as well as more complex medical problems. Many common issues are manageable, and some are partly preventable, especially when pets have regular check-ups and owners know what early signs to look out for. If you would like tailored advice for your own pet, you can book an appointment online or speak to our local veterinary team.

Main Content

1. Skin problems and itching

Skin complaints are one of the most common reasons pets visit the vet. Dogs in particular may develop itchy skin, sore paws, repeated licking, redness, dandruff or hair loss. Cats can also overgroom or develop scabs and irritation.

Common causes include:

• Fleas or flea allergy
• Environmental allergies such as pollen or dust
• Food-related sensitivities
• Skin infections
• Mites or other parasites

In our experience supporting pets across Tooting and South West London, many owners assume itching is “just seasonal”, but persistent scratching is worth checking. Early treatment can help prevent secondary infections and discomfort. Routine flea prevention and regular health checks are an important part of preventative healthcare.

2. Ear infections

Ear problems often go hand in hand with skin disease, especially in dogs. Signs can include head shaking, scratching at the ears, an unpleasant smell, redness or dark discharge. Some pets become sensitive around the head or seem reluctant to have their ears touched.

Ear infections can be caused by yeast, bacteria, allergies, ear mites or trapped moisture after bathing or swimming. Our veterinary team often advises owners not to use home remedies unless they have been specifically recommended, as some products can make the problem worse or hide the underlying cause.

3. Dental disease and bad breath

Dental disease is extremely common in adult pets, especially as they get older. Bad breath, tartar build-up, red gums, difficulty chewing, dribbling or dropping food can all be signs of oral discomfort.

A common misunderstanding is that bad breath is normal in pets. It is not. It often points to gum inflammation, infection or tooth problems. Small breed dogs are especially prone, but cats and rabbits can also develop serious dental issues.

Many local pet owners ask us when they should start thinking about dental care. The answer is early. Brushing, dental-friendly diets where appropriate, regular exams and prompt treatment of sore mouths can make a real difference. Our experienced veterinary team regularly helps identify dental problems during health checks and clinics.

4. Weight gain and obesity

Weight gain is another common problem across South West London. Pets may become overweight gradually, so it can be easy to miss. Extra weight places strain on the joints, heart and lungs and can worsen conditions such as arthritis, diabetes and breathing difficulty.

Common causes include:

• Too many treats or large portions
• Low exercise levels
• Neutering without adjusting calorie intake
• Age-related slowing down
• Feeding several family members’ “extras”

At Tooting Vets we commonly see well-loved pets who are simply being overfed without their owners realising it. A weight check and feeding review can be very helpful. If you are unsure whether your pet is at a healthy weight, it is sensible to arrange a check with our team and ask about VIP plans that support ongoing preventative care.

5. Stomach upsets and digestive problems

Vomiting, diarrhoea, reduced appetite, constipation and increased wind are all common concerns. Some cases are mild and short-lived, but not all digestive problems settle on their own.

Pets may develop stomach upsets because of:

• Eating something unsuitable outdoors or at home
• Sudden diet changes
• Food intolerance
• Infection or parasites
• Stress
• Underlying disease

We commonly see dogs that have picked up food waste on walks in local parks, and cats that become picky eaters after mild digestive upset. If symptoms are ongoing, severe, or your pet seems lethargic, dehydrated or painful, veterinary advice is important. Some pets may need further investigation, and where needed we can support this through our advanced surgery and medicine services and hospitalisation facilities for monitoring and treatment.

6. Parasites such as fleas, ticks and worms

Parasites remain a year-round issue for many local pet owners, even with city living. Fleas can live in homes as well as on pets, and worms may not always cause obvious signs early on. Rabbits and small pets also need species-specific preventative care.

Prevention matters because parasites can affect comfort, gut health and general wellbeing. Regular, vet-guided parasite control is safer and more reliable than guessing which products may be suitable. Our veterinary team often advises owners to keep prevention consistent throughout the year rather than only treating when they see a problem.

7. Arthritis and mobility problems

Older pets commonly develop stiffness, reduced jumping ability, slower walks, difficulty with stairs or changes in behaviour linked to pain. Arthritis is joint inflammation and wear that can affect everyday comfort.

In our experience supporting pets across Tooting and South West London, signs are often subtle at first. Cats may simply stop jumping onto their favourite chair. Dogs may slow down after rest. Rabbits may appear less active or less able to groom properly.

Early support can improve quality of life. That may include weight management, changes at home, exercise advice and a veterinary assessment to check for pain or other causes of reduced mobility.

8. Breathing problems in flat-faced breeds

Flat-faced breeds such as French Bulldogs, Pugs and Bulldogs can be more prone to breathing difficulties, especially in warm weather or when exercising. They may snore loudly, struggle to recover after activity or seem noisy when breathing.

At Tooting Vets we regularly help owners of brachycephalic, or flat-faced, breeds understand what is normal and what should be assessed. If your dog is affected, our dedicated BOAS Grading Clinic can help evaluate breathing function and guide next steps where needed.

If your pet is struggling to breathe, has collapsed, is having a seizure, has eaten something toxic, or is in severe pain, contact a vet immediately. We provide 24-hour emergency veterinary care for urgent situations.

What We Commonly See at Tooting Vets

One of the most common concerns we hear from local pet owners is whether a problem is serious enough to book an appointment. Very often, owners worry about “bothering the vet” with early signs such as licking paws, bad breath, mild head shaking, reduced energy or small changes in appetite.

The reality is that these early signs can be useful clues. We regularly help owners who have noticed:

• A dog scratching more than usual
• A cat losing weight or becoming picky with food
• A rabbit eating less or producing fewer droppings
• An older pet slowing down gradually
• A flat-faced dog becoming noisier when breathing

A common misunderstanding is that if a pet is still eating or wagging their tail, they must be fine. Pets often carry on with normal behaviour even when they are uncomfortable. Our experienced veterinary team regularly helps identify small problems before they become bigger ones.

We also commonly see owners who have done all the right things at home but need extra support with diagnosis. Where appropriate, Tooting Vets can provide more in-depth investigation through services such as CT scanning and advanced medical care, helping us assess certain conditions in more detail when standard examination alone is not enough.

Practical Advice

There are plenty of simple steps pet owners in Tooting and South West London can take to reduce the risk of common health problems:

• Keep vaccinations, parasite prevention and routine checks up to date
• Watch for gradual changes in weight, appetite, drinking, mobility or behaviour
• Check ears, skin, claws and teeth regularly at home
• Feed an appropriate diet and measure portions carefully
• Introduce diet changes slowly
• Keep unsafe foods, toxins and household hazards out of reach
• Make sure rabbits and small pets are monitored closely for appetite and droppings

For puppies, kittens and young pets, prevention starts early. Our veterinary team often advises new owners to build care around regular checks and routine support, such as the Little VIP plans and the Puppy VIP Plan. Adult pets may benefit from ongoing cover through our VIP Health Plan. If you are new to the area, you can also register your pet with Tooting Vets for local support.

When To Contact A Vet

Please contact a vet if your pet has:

• Repeated vomiting or diarrhoea
• Difficulty breathing or noisy breathing that is worsening
• Sudden collapse, weakness or disorientation
• Loss of appetite that is unusual for them
• Persistent itching, ear problems or skin sores
• Bad breath with signs of mouth pain
• Lameness, stiffness or signs of ongoing pain
• Any sudden change in behaviour that concerns you

If your pet is struggling to breathe, has collapsed, is having a seizure, has eaten something toxic, or is in severe pain, contact a vet immediately. Our 24-hour emergency veterinary care service is available for urgent situations.

If the problem is not an emergency but you would like reassurance, it is always reasonable to book an appointment or arrange a routine check. Many issues are easier to manage when seen early.

Frequently Asked Questions

What health problems do you see most often in dogs in South West London?

The most common problems include skin allergies, ear infections, dental disease, stomach upsets, weight gain and arthritis. Flat-faced breeds may also have breathing issues.

Are fleas still common in indoor pets?

Yes. Indoor pets can still pick up fleas, and fleas can survive in the home environment. Year-round prevention is often the best approach.

How do I know if my pet is overweight?

If you cannot easily feel the ribs under a light covering of tissue, or your pet has lost their waistline, they may be overweight. A vet or nurse check is the best way to assess this properly.

When should I worry about bad breath?

Bad breath is worth checking if it is persistent or accompanied by drooling, red gums, reluctance to eat or visible tartar. It often suggests dental disease rather than simply “dog breath” or “cat breath”.

Can rabbits hide illness?

Yes. Rabbits often hide signs of being unwell, so reduced appetite, fewer droppings, quieter behaviour or changes in posture should be taken seriously and assessed promptly.

Disclaimer

This article is intended for general guidance only. If your pet is unwell, showing concerning symptoms, or you are unsure what to do, please contact your vet for professional advice.

Support for Your Pet in Tooting and South West London

If you are concerned about your dog, cat, rabbit or small pet, our team at Tooting Vets is here to help. We support pet owners across Tooting, Balham, Streatham, Earlsfield, Wimbledon, Wandsworth, Colliers Wood, Mitcham and Southfields with practical advice, preventative care and treatment when needed.

You can book an appointment online, register your pet with us, explore our veterinary services, or use our find us page to contact your local veterinary team in Tooting.