Longevity
Life expectancy
With a life expectancy often between 12 and 14 years, the West Highland White Terrier is one of the small dogs that can accompany their family for a long time when its lifestyle hygiene, its weight and its veterinary follow-up remain well controlled.
Build
A robust breed?
Its compact build and good overall hardiness make it a fairly robust dog, able to cope well with an active lifestyle. This sturdiness does not eliminate the need for particular vigilance regarding the dermatological and respiratory conditions to which the breed may be predisposed.
Watch points
What to watch for
Regular monitoring of the condition of the skin, the quality of the coat, breathing and the cleanliness of the ears is particularly useful in this breed. Any persistent itching, unusual cough or breathing difficulty should lead to a veterinary consultation.
Dermatitis and seborrhea : The breed may develop chronic skin disorders with itching, inflammation, or excess sebum, especially from a certain age.
Pulmonary fibrosis : The West Highland White Terrier is among the breeds predisposed to this respiratory condition, which can cause coughing, shortness of breath, and reduced exercise tolerance.
Otitis and ear mites : Its ears should be monitored and cleaned regularly to limit irritation, parasites, and secondary infections.
Climate
Cold and heat tolerance
The West Highland White Terrier generally tolerates cold and bad weather well thanks to its double coat. It tolerates high heat more moderately and must then have shade, fresh water and outings shifted to the least hot hours.
Weight
Tendency to gain weight
Even if the breed is not among the most prone to weight gain, excess intake and a lack of activity can quickly affect this small build. A measured ration, limited treats and daily walks help maintain a proper silhouette.
Daily life
Good habits to keep it healthy
- Regularly inspect the skin and coat to detect redness or itching.
- Clean the ears with a suitable product according to the veterinarian's advice.
- Consult without delay in case of chronic cough or unusual shortness of breath.
- Maintain a stable weight thanks to an adjusted ration and daily outings.
Vaccination
West Highland White Terrier vaccines: vaccination schedule
Which vaccines for a West Highland White Terrier? Like all cats, the West Highland White Terrier receives essential vaccines from 8 weeks old: Typhus (panleukopenia) and Coryza. The kitten primary vaccination for West Highland White Terrier is given in several injections 4 weeks apart, followed by a first booster at 1 year, even if it lives in an apartment. Depending on its lifestyle (outdoor access, multi-cat household, shows, travel), your veterinarian may complete the protocol with vaccines against Feline leukemia (FeLV), Rabies and Chlamydiosis.
| Vaccine | Primary series | First booster | Then | Who for? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Typhus (panleukopenia)Core Feline panleukopenia (cat parvovirus) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All pets |
CoryzaCore Feline herpesvirus and calicivirus | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All pets |
Feline leukemia (FeLV)Lifestyle-based Feline leukemia virus | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Outdoor cats, cats living in a group or in a cattery |
RabiesLifestyle-based Rabies | 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Mandatory for travel abroad, cat shows and most boarding kennels |
ChlamydiosisLifestyle-based Chlamydia felis (contagious conjunctivitis) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Cats living in groups, catteries, show cats |
Adult West Highland White Terrier vaccine boosters are annual for cat flu and leukemia if it goes outdoors; for panleukopenia, a booster every three years is often sufficient after the first booster. Your veterinarian will adjust the schedule to your cat’s lifestyle.
Which boosters for your West Highland White Terrier?
Enter your companion’s age: we list the vaccines to do now and the next boosters.
Adopting well
Adopting a healthy West Highland White Terrier
During routine visits, it is relevant to monitor the skin, ears, dental condition and respiratory function, especially in an individual that shows a chronic cough, exercise intolerance or repeated itching. A basic orthopedic examination can also be useful in case of lameness or locomotor discomfort.
This information is provided for guidance only and does not replace a veterinarian’s advice. If you have any concerns about your pet’s health, consult a professional.
