Dr Gerry Pahl

In Hong Kong, especially in humid areas such as the West New Territories, itchy skin is one of the most common reasons dogs end up at the vet. Warm, damp weather helps dust mites thrive. It also creates the perfect conditions for yeast and bacteria to overgrow on already irritated skin.

Indoor-only living protects cats from traffic, infectious disease exposure, fights, falls, and many city hazards. Indoor cats still need stimulation. A cat’s day is naturally built around short bursts of activity. They stalk, pounce, climb, groom, patrol, eat, rest, and repeat. When life becomes too predictable, some cats cope by sleeping too much. Others demand attention at night, scratch furniture, chase ankles, bully another pet, or start toileting outside the tray.