From a flatulent bulldog to a cat who wants to go for walks — your pet queries answered

HE is on a mission to help our pets  . . . and is here to answer YOUR questions.

Sean, who is the head vet at tailored pet food firm tails.com, has helped with owners’ queries for ten years. He says: “If your pet is acting funny or is under the weather, or you want to know about nutrition or exercise, just ask. I can help keep pets happy and healthy.”

Q) DO you think taking cats for walks on a lead is cruel?

I’m thinking of getting a little ­harness for my cat Heathcliff as he likes to follow me on walks, but he only goes so far then he heads home. Is that a bad idea?

Pam Morris, Dorchester

Sean says:  It’s not necessarily cruel at all. Many cats enjoy a walk, and it can be safer for them not to be crossing roads or wandering off alone.

It does require a bit of training though, and  you’ll probably get some funny looks.

One word of warning, however: Be careful if bringing cats into crowded areas or places where dogs roam free.

In these scenarios, being on a lead can be a risk as your cat’s escape route is hindered.

Q) WHAT are the best toys for a leopard gecko? And is it worth getting her a pen to go outside?

I have a one-year-old female called Chocolate and want her to be as happy as possible as I know she will live for up to 20 years. But is it wise to change things   too much?

Sam Davies, West London

Sean says: Toys aren’t as important as physical or environmental enrichment for geckos (and other reptiles).

You want to basically mimic their environment in the wild, with plenty of branches and rocks to climb on and caves to hide in; some dry and warm, some damp, some at the cooler end of the tank.