Common Pet Health Problems in South East London

Quick Answer: Common pet health problems in South East London include fleas, worms, itchy skin, ear problems, dental disease, stomach upsets, weight gain and seasonal allergies. Many of these can be reduced with regular health checks, parasite prevention, good diet, vaccinations and early veterinary advice if symptoms do not settle.

Introduction

Pets in Peckham, Camberwell, Nunhead and across South East London face many of the same everyday health issues, whether they are dogs, cats, rabbits or smaller pets. At Peckham Vets we regularly help owners with common concerns that are often preventable or easier to manage when picked up early.

In busy urban areas, pets can be exposed to parasites, infectious disease, unsuitable foods, stress, traffic-related injuries and lifestyle-related problems such as obesity. The good news is that regular check-ups, vaccinations and sensible home care make a real difference. Our veterinary team often advises that small changes in routine can help prevent bigger problems later on. If you would like tailored support, you can explore our preventative healthcare options or book an appointment online.

Main Content

1. Fleas, worms and other parasites

Parasites are one of the most common problems we see in pets across South East London. Dogs and cats can pick up fleas from other animals or from the home environment, while worms may be caught from contaminated ground, prey, fleas or infected faeces. Rabbits and small pets can also develop parasite-related issues, depending on their housing and hygiene.

Possible signs include:

• Scratching or overgrooming
• Hair loss or sore skin
• Visible fleas or flea dirt in the coat
• Weight loss
• Stomach upset
• A bloated appearance in younger pets

Prevention is usually much easier than treatment. Regular parasite control, cleaning bedding and washing hands after handling pets all help reduce risk. Many local pet owners ask us which products are appropriate for their pet’s age and lifestyle, and this is something we are happy to advise on during health checks and clinics or through our VIP plans.

2. Itchy skin and allergies

Skin problems are very common in dogs and cats, particularly during warmer months when pollen, grasses and insects are more active. Pets may also react to fleas, certain foods, cleaning products or underlying skin infections.

Common signs include:

• Scratching, licking or chewing
• Red or inflamed skin
• Ear irritation
• Hair thinning
• A yeasty or unpleasant smell

At Peckham Vets we commonly see itchy pets whose owners assumed it was “just a seasonal thing”, when in fact flea allergy or an ear infection was making the problem worse. Early assessment can help stop a mild issue becoming more uncomfortable. Our experienced veterinary team supports pets through every stage of life, and regular monitoring is often especially helpful for pets with recurring skin trouble.

3. Ear problems

Ear issues often go hand in hand with allergies, but they can also develop on their own. Dogs with floppy ears may be more prone to ear inflammation because warm, moist ear canals can trap debris and encourage infection. Cats can also develop ear mites, irritation or infection.

Watch for:

• Head shaking
• Scratching at the ears
• A strong smell
• Dark discharge
• Sensitivity when the ears are touched

A common mistake is using home remedies or over-cleaning without knowing the cause. Ear problems can have several triggers, and some products are not suitable if the ear is very inflamed. If your pet seems uncomfortable, it is best to register your pet or arrange a veterinary check.

4. Dental disease and bad breath

Dental disease is extremely common in adult pets, especially if tartar builds up over time. Bad breath is often the first sign owners notice, but gum inflammation, loose teeth and mouth pain can also develop gradually.

Signs may include:

• Bad breath
• Yellow or brown tartar on the teeth
• Dropping food
• Reduced appetite
• Reluctance to chew toys or biscuits

In our experience supporting pets across Peckham and South East London, many owners are surprised by how much dental discomfort pets can hide. Home tooth brushing, dental diets where appropriate, and regular check-ups all help. If we are concerned that a pet needs further treatment, we can guide owners through the next steps as part of our wider veterinary services.

5. Stomach upsets

Vomiting and diarrhoea are common reasons pets are brought in for advice. Urban pets may scavenge dropped food, raid bins, eat unsuitable treats or react to sudden diet changes. Stress and infection can also play a role.

Mild stomach upset may settle quickly, but veterinary advice is important if symptoms are severe, ongoing or accompanied by lethargy, pain or dehydration. Puppies, kittens, rabbits and elderly pets can become unwell more quickly than healthy adults.

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. If urgent help is needed, please use our 24-hour emergency vetcare information.

6. Weight gain and obesity

Weight gain is one of the most overlooked health problems in companion animals. Extra weight can increase strain on joints and may contribute to reduced mobility, reduced fitness and poorer quality of life. Indoor cats, neutered pets and dogs that receive frequent treats are particularly at risk.

Our veterinary team often advises owners in Peckham and Bellenden Road that portion sizes can creep up without anyone realising. Measuring food, avoiding too many extras and keeping pets active can make a big difference. Regular weigh-ins and body condition checks are useful, especially if your pet has slowed down or seems to be gaining weight despite a normal appetite.

For ongoing support, many owners choose dog VIP plans, cat VIP plans or bunny VIP plans to help keep preventive care on track.

7. Vaccination-preventable illness

We still see preventable infectious disease in pets whose vaccinations have lapsed or who missed early protection. Dogs, cats and rabbits each need species-appropriate vaccinations to reduce the risk of serious illness.

A common misconception is that indoor pets or pets with a small local routine do not need preventive protection. In reality, infection can still spread through environments, other animals or contaminated objects. At Peckham Vets, based on Bellenden Road and supporting local pet owners across Camberwell and Nunhead, we encourage routine vaccination and regular wellness checks to keep protection up to date.

If you have a new puppy or kitten, our free puppy and kitten health checks can be a helpful starting point, alongside our Puppy VIP Plan and Kitten VIP Plan.

What We Commonly See at Peckham Vets

One of the most common concerns we hear from local pet owners is that they are not sure whether a symptom is minor or whether it needs attention. That is completely understandable. Pets often carry on as normal even when they are uncomfortable.

Many local pet owners ask us about repeated scratching, upset stomachs after scavenging, changes in appetite, bad breath and gradual weight gain. We regularly help owners who have noticed something “not quite right” but are unsure if it is important. In many cases, an early check gives reassurance and practical advice before a problem worsens.

A common misunderstanding is that if a pet is still eating, the issue cannot be serious. In fact, pets can continue eating with dental pain, skin irritation or early illness. Another misconception is that indoor cats and house rabbits do not need routine preventive care. In practice, they still benefit from health checks, vaccinations where appropriate, dental monitoring and parasite advice.

As an RCVS Accredited Practice, we focus on practical, evidence-based care and clear communication. Our local veterinary team routinely supports pets from Peckham, Camberwell, Nunhead and wider South East London with both everyday concerns and more complex needs when further investigation is appropriate.

Practical Advice

• Check your pet’s coat, ears, teeth and weight regularly at home.
• Keep parasite prevention up to date.
• Feed a balanced diet and measure meals rather than guessing portions.
• Avoid sudden food changes unless advised.
• Discourage scavenging on walks where possible.
• Book routine health checks even if your pet seems well.
• Ask about age-appropriate preventive care for puppies, kittens, adult pets and seniors.

Our experienced veterinary team regularly helps owners build simple preventive routines that fit everyday life. If you are new to the area, you can also use our new client offer and find us on Bellenden Road.

When To Contact A Vet

You should contact a vet if your pet has:

• Vomiting or diarrhoea that is severe, repeated or not settling
• Persistent itching, hair loss or inflamed skin
• Bad-smelling ears, discharge or repeated head shaking
• Bad breath with signs of mouth discomfort
• Unexpected weight loss or weight gain
• Changes in appetite, thirst, behaviour or energy levels
• Any symptom that is worsening or simply does not seem right

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. For urgent support, please use our emergency vetcare service information.

If a condition needs more in-depth investigation or treatment, we can also guide you through appropriate options within our advanced surgery and medicine services.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common pet health problem you see?

There is not one single problem that affects every pet, but fleas, itchy skin, ear issues, dental disease, weight gain and stomach upsets are all very common.

How often should my pet have a health check?

Most pets benefit from regular routine checks, even when they appear healthy. The right frequency depends on age, species, existing conditions and lifestyle.

Do indoor cats still need preventive care?

Yes. Indoor cats still benefit from vaccination advice, parasite control where needed, dental monitoring and routine health checks.

Can rabbits get dental and digestive problems?

Yes. Rabbits are particularly prone to dental disease and gut problems, so changes in eating, droppings or behaviour should be taken seriously.

When should I book an appointment for itching or stomach upset?

If the symptoms are persistent, recurring, severe or your pet seems unwell in themselves, it is best to arrange a check rather than waiting too long.

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.

Need Advice About Your Pet’s Health?

If you are concerned about scratching, stomach upset, dental problems, weight changes or any other everyday health issue, we are here to help. You can book an appointment, register your pet with Peckham Vets, or speak to our team about preventative healthcare and ongoing support for pets across Peckham and South East London.