A New Cancer Drug Shows Promise for Both Cats and People

Study Confirms Pets Are Better Social Media Influencers than People

Social media accounts of cats and dogs promoting products have an upper hand when it comes to trustworthiness, a new study shows. In recent years, our four-legged companions have become extremely popular on social media. Some are so popular that they have amassed millions of followers on their social media accounts. This trend has created a new word - petfluencer, a domestic animal that has a dedicated social media account where its owner posts about it. Some petfluencers have become famous, generating an impressive income. The world’s richest cat, Nala, is probably the best example. With 4.4 million followers on Instagram, Nala Cat has an estimated net worth of $100 million.But what makes cats and dogs better influencers than people? A new study found that petfluencers have an unexpected edge over human influencers in terms of trustworthiness. The study, published in The Journal of Advertising Research, examines how animals’ endorsements of brands, as seen in petfluencer accounts, affect consumer response. Researchers from the University of Strathclyde in Scotland analyzed what makes petfluencers successful by comparing them to human influencers. For this study, researchers created fictional advertisements for products like peanut butter and wine. When these advertisements were shown to an audience, the results were surprising, but clear - petfluencer has surpassed the human influencer in terms of consumer response.The study also found petfluencers to be even more effective when their message matched a consumer’s focus on immediate satisfaction and pleasure. Researchers also discovered that the number of sponsored posts affects an influencer’s perceived sincerity. As the number of sponsored posts by human influencers increases, their perceived sincerity is declining, likely because of “influencer fatigue”.Human influencers are often seen in a negative light if their persuasive intent is clearer if people believe they endorse products and brands they don’t use or believe in just to get paid. According to the researchers, this is most likely the reason why petfluencers could be a good alternative for more sincere endorsements. On the other hand, pets aren’t obsessed with material things and offer a more genuine alternative to human influencers, and brands have started to notice their value. More advertising agencies are turning to petfluencers to promote brands, and they often earn as much as their human counterparts. “Petfluencers offer distinct advantages compared to human social media influencers,” said Dr. Laura Laverty, study author and lecturer in Marketing at the University of Strathclyde. “While the persuasiveness of human influencers often stems from their relatability or aspirational appeal, petfluencers are seen as more genuine and sincere. Because they are pets, they have no hidden agenda,” she explained.Pets don’t come with the baggage or scandals that follow some human influencers, which makes them seem more trustworthy. Although petfluencer accounts may appear like they are managed by the pets themselves, they are often run transparently by the pet’s owner. Like human influencers, petfluencers often work with advertising agencies to handle brand partnerships, while staying in charge of the type of content they post. Famous petfluencers like Nala Cat are in high demand and endorse a large number of products. For example, Nala the cat recommends an array of products, from cat food to mobile games. The research team believes future studies will validate their findings and explore the growing presence and influence of pets in social media. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

What Does Your Cat's Poop Reveal About Their Health?

Every day, countless cat parents do the not-so-pleasant job of scooping the litter box. While this routine task may not be the most glamorous, your cat’s box holds a wealth of information about their inner workings and overall health.Paying just a little attention to what they leave behind may reveal subtle clues that speak volumes about their well-being.In this post, I will share the knowledge you need to decipher the unspoken language of the litter box, including helping you understand what constitutes a healthy deposit and, more importantly, when something may be “off” or warrant a call to your veterinarian.Familiarizing yourself with what to look for and when to be concerned is the key to a happier, healthier life for your best friend.What is Considered “Normal” Cat Poop?Recognizing when something isn’t right based on your cat’s litter box starts with understanding what is considered “normal.” There are several key characteristics that you can expect to see when looking at health cat poop, indicating a well-functioning digestive system.Consistency is KeyIdeally, your cat’s stool should be firm and log-shaped, holding its form well when scooped. The texture should be moist, like the texture of modeling clay or even a well-formed sausage. This consistency is important as it means the food is being properly digested and there’s a healthy balance of water absorption in the intestines, resulting in poop that is easy and comfortable to pass through the digestive tract.The Right ColorThe expected color for healthy cat poop falls into a spectrum that ranges from medium to dark brown. This comes primarily from the natural breakdown of food within the digestive system and the presence of bile, the key digestive fluid produced by the liver.It is worth noting that slight color variations can happen due to the foods included in your cat’s diet. For example, certain foods may cause the poop to be slightly lighter or darker brown, which is usually nothing to be concerned about as long as other characteristics on this list remain normal. If you do notice a slight change of color, take a moment to consider whether your cat has eaten something new recently that could be behind that shift.Size MattersThe typical size of a healthy stool for your cat will correlate with their overall size and the amount they eat, meaning that it will vary slightly from cat to cat. Even within my own home, with three cats, we have three different “normals” to consider.By consistently observing your cat’s waste when cleaning the box, you will familiarize yourself with what is normal for them, allowing you to notice if their waste is slightly smaller or larger than usual, which can be a subtle sign of an underlying issue. Very small stools may suggest that your cat is eating less than usual or they are experiencing a slower digestion rate than normal. Consistently large stools could point towards dietary imbalances or improper absorption of nutrients.Something Smells “Off”Let’s be honest, all poop has an odor, and it’s not an odor we generally get excited about. However, healthy cat poop shouldn’t have an overwhelmingly foul or offensive smell. While you won’t be mistaking your cat’s litter box for roses anytime soon, even if they are 100% healthy, a sudden and significant worsening of that smell can be a red flag. This may signal bacterial overgrowth in the digestive tract or digestive upset. Trust your nose – if the smell seems noticeably different and concerning, it’s worth taking note and investigating further.Frequency and HabitsMost cats will typically have a bowel movement once or twice a day. This is considered “normal” and indicates that their digestive system is operating as it should. Still, it can vary slightly from cat to cat based on factors such as their diet, activity levels, and overall metabolism. Monitoring your cat’s bathroom habits can help you establish what’s normal for them, arming you with the information necessary to recognize if something’s “off.”A significant and persistent change in their usual bathroom habits, whether it’s going much more or much less often, is a red flag worth paying attention to.Red Flags in Your Cat’s Litter BoxWhile understanding what healthy poop looks like will give you a baseline, you will need to fine tune your observation skills to be able to recognize when something has changed, even subtly. Certain changes in consistency, color, contents, odor, frequency, or volume may signal underlying issues that need to be addressed or even a need for a visit to the veterinarian ASAP.Here are a few of the red flags you should be on the lookout for in more detail:Changes in ConsistencyOne of the most common changes you may notice is diarrhea, which can manifest in several forms. It may appear watery, very loose, or have a soft, puddling-like consistency. Several factors can contribute to diarrhea in cats. Often, it is the result of eating something they shouldn’t. However, stress, parasites (such as roundworms, hookworms, or Giardia), bacterial or viral infections, food sensitivities or allergies, and even underlying medical conditions can impact the digestive tract.It's also important to keep in mind that diarrhea can quickly lead to dehydration, especially in vulnerable populations like kittens and senior cats, making prompt attention critical.On the opposite end of the spectrum is constipation, characterized by hard, dry pellets or infrequent and often strained attempts to go. You may notice your cat making repeated trips to the litter box without producing much or showing signs of discomfort when trying.Dehydration is also a significant contributor to constipation, as is a diet lacking the necessary fiber your cat requires. Hairballs, particularly in long-haired breeds, can also cause blockages. Other potential causes include obesity, pain (making it uncomfortable to get into position to go), neurological issues, and, in severe cases, a condition called megacolon, where the colon becomes enlarged and loses its ability to contract and move the stool along effectively. Constipation can be pretty uncomfortable for your cat and, if left untreated, can lead to serious medical problems.

Dog with Grapefruit-Sized Tumour Gets Help From UK Rescue

Charity urges other pet owners to seek out treatment and financial support rather than ignoring medical issues.

What is Scent Work for Dogs?

Are you looking for new activities and events to enjoy with your pup? If so, you may want to explore the world of scent work! It’s a fun and engaging activity that allows your dog to tap into their natural abilities. It’s a great opportunity to build your bond and boost confidence through a rewarding game. If you really love it, there are even opportunities to get involved with scent work on a competitive level!In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to get started in scent work today, including a better understanding of what scent work involves, the benefits of this game for your dog, and step-by-step instructions to get started with this activity in your own home. What are you waiting for?What Is Scent Work? To truly appreciate scent work and the benefits it offers for your dog, we first need to understand the basics. This starts with the instrument at its core: a dog’s nose. The Master Tool That Is Your Dog’s Nose Your dog’s nose is more than just an adorable boopable button; it’s a masterpiece of evolution that helps them navigate the world around them. Its power is almost unbelievable! While humans have approximately 5 million scent receptors, our dogs possess 125 million to 300 million, depending on the breed. This means they can experience a world of smells that is far more detailed than anything we can even begin to imagine. They detect odors at concentrations that aren’t even noticeable to us. In addition to the number of scent receptors, the structure of your dog’s nose improves their powerful smelling abilities. When they breathe in, a fold of tissues separates the air into two distinct pathways: one for breathing and one exclusively for those receptors to detect smells. These two pathways allow them to breathe and analyze scents at the same time. They also have a specialized organ called a “vomeronasal organ” (or Jacobson’s organ) at the roof of their mouth, which detects specific scents like pheromones and other chemical signals. When all of this works together, dogs can discriminate and identify individual odors even when they are mixed together with many others. Imagine walking into a busy kitchen filled with the smells of coffee, toast, and bacon. A human nose might just smell “breakfast.” Your dog’s nose, however, can identify the coffee, the specific type of bread, and even differentiate between bacon and sausage. This incredible ability is why scent work is why they are so skilled at detecting specific substances. The Basics of Scent WorkScent work is an activity that leverages this incredible power of smell by turning it into a structured search game. At the heart of scent work is the “target odor.” This is the specific scent that your dog is trained to find. Traditional scent work often focuses on essential oils like birch, anise, or clove, diluted to a specific (and safe to smell) concentration. However, for home-based fun, a target odor can be anything from a high-value treat or specific toy to a unique household item like your car keys. The key is that the dog learns to associate this particular scent with a reward. It’s also important to note that scent doesn’t just sit still; it moves. As air moves through or over a hidden scent source, it can create a “scent cone” or “plume,” a trail of odor that disperses into the surrounding environment. Dogs are masters at finding and navigating these plums, following the scent back to the source. They learn to identify the strongest point of the scent, which leads them directly to the hidden item. An important concept to understand in scent work is the difference between the actual source of the smell (where the target odor or item is located) and contamination (residual scent left behind as the item was moved or handled). Through their training, dogs learn to indicate only at the source, ignoring the weaker contamination, but this precision takes time and practice. At its roots, scent work is a search game. You hide the target odor, and your dog uses their nose to find it. When they do so successfully, they are rewarded. This simple concept is the foundation of all scent work, from casual home activities to competitive trials. The joy for your dog comes from the hunt and the reward. For the handler, the joy comes from watching your dog engage in an activity that is fun and naturally fulfilling. The Benefits of Scent Work for Your Dog Scent work is a great way to keep your dog busy (we all know how important that is, especially if you have a young, active puppy or a high-energy dog at home). But it’s more than that! It impacts their mental, emotional, and even physical well-being, helping to give them the best possible quality of life. Here are some of the benefits it offers: Mental Stimulation and Enrichment Scent work is often described as a “brain game” because it requires your dog to use their mental abilities, including problem-solving, concentration, decision-making, and memory. Unlike physical exercise, which tires the body, scent work is a form of mental enrichment that tires the mind out in a highly satisfying way. In fact, a dog who has spent 15-20 minutes intensely searching for scents will often be as tired, if not more so, than a dog that has had a long walk! Many common behavioral problems people face with their dogs, such as destructive chewing, excessive barking, or digging, can be traced back to boredom and a lack of appropriate outlets for their pent-up mental and physical energy. Scent work gives your dog a constructive and engaging activity to channel their energy into, which goes a long way in preventing these unwanted behaviors.

Socializing Kittens: How-Tos and Tips

What is kitten socialization? It’s a process that requires time, patience, and a gentle approach, but it’s necessary and valuable because it will ensure your kitten grows up to be an adult cat who’s relaxed around people and other pets they know, as well as confident around strangers and when experiencing new things.

How to Ferret-Proof Your Home

Ferrets are curious, active, and intelligent, and they love a good adventure. So, you shouldn’t be surprised when they make their way into your cabinets, dressers, and little nooks and crannies throughout your home. They’re also liable to chew on things they shouldn’t or ingest things that are dangerous or toxic. For these reasons, it’s necessary to properly ferret-proof any room where they’ll spend time outside of their enclosure.

5 Things to Know Before Getting a Pet Gerbil

Gerbils are small, energetic rodents that can make delightful companions. They’re curious, playful, and often cleaner than other small pets. But, like any animal, they have specific needs that future owners should be aware of before bringing them home. Here are five essential things to know before adopting a gerbil. Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Should I Feed My Cat Wet or Dry Food?

If you’ve ever stood in the pet food aisle trying to choose between cans and kibble, you’re not alone. One of the most common questions cat owners face is whether wet or dry food is better - and the answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. Both options offer their own benefits and drawbacks, and the best choice often depends on your cat’s specific needs, preferences, and lifestyle.Here’s what to know when deciding what to put in your cat’s bowl.Wet vs. Dry: What’s the Real Difference?Both wet and dry cat foods can provide complete and balanced nutrition, as long as they meet standards set by reputable veterinary organizations like the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). The key difference between them is moisture content. Wet food contains around 70–80% water, while dry food has about 10% - making wet food a great source of hydration.This is especially important because many cats naturally have a low thirst drive. Descended from desert-dwelling animals, cats often don’t drink as much water as they should. Feeding wet food can help prevent dehydration and may support urinary and kidney health, particularly in older or more sensitive cats. Dry food, on the other hand, is more calorie-dense. Cats eat less of it but take in more energy per bite. That can be a plus for very active cats, but it may contribute to weight gain in indoor or less active pets. Dry food is also convenient, shelf-stable, and easy to store - making it a practical choice for busy households or those with multiple cats.

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Dogs’ TV‑Watching Habits Vary by Personality

Picture this: it’s a rainy afternoon, you’re curled up on the couch, and your dog parks right next to you, eyes glued to the screen. Turns out, that cozy scene might say more about your pup’s personality than you realize.A new study from Auburn University, published in Scientific Reports, dove into how dogs respond to television. And guess what? It depends a lot on their temperament.Researchers surveyed over 650 dog owners and analyzed 453 pups, ages 2 months to 16 years, to explore what grabs their attention when the TV is on.The study found that excitable dogs, the kind that chase tennis balls until they snooze, loved to follow moving objects on screen. They’d track a bouncing ball or darting dog with their eyes, even dash around the TV looking for it. Anxious or fearful dogs were less interested in visuals. Instead, they perked up at sounds, like doorbells, car engines, or a sudden bark. Regardless of personality, nearly 45% of dogs reacted when they heard another dog bark or howl on TV. Some even jumped up to find the source.  On average, a viewing session lasted about 14 minutes.“It really shows dogs may perceive that screen image as part of their real world,” says Lane Montgomery, the lead researcher. And Jeffrey Katz, a cognitive psychology expert involved in the study, said, “Personality of the dog influences their viewing habits… animal‑centric content yielding a more enthusiastic response than footage of people”.So what does this mean for us as pet parents? First off, TV can be more than background noise, it can offer mental enrichment, especially for energetic dogs who need extra stimulation. But for anxious pups, flashy scenes or sudden noises might actually stress them out.Dr. Freya Mowat, a veterinary ophthalmologist, cautions against leaving anxious dogs alone with the TV: “If your dog has reactive tendencies… I would question whether that is truly a good thing for your dog”. She suggests softer sounds, like classical piano music, can be soothing instead.And creators of “Dog TV” are already taking note. Some specialty channels tailor their programming with dogs in mind, adjusting color, sound, and pacing to match how dogs see and hear the world. It’s not just entertainment, it’s enrichment with a purpose. If you want to test this at home, here’s a quick guide:Try a variety of shows: nature documentaries, sports with lots of movement, or even clips of dogs playing.Watch your dog’s reaction: are they tracking the action, sniffing around, barking, or flinching?Adjust accordingly: excitable dogs may thrive on action; nervous dogs might prefer calm, animal‑focused content or none at all.Use it wisely: don’t rely on TV to entertain them all day. It’s a supplement, not a substitute for play, training, or family time.And remember, not every dog will enjoy watching TV, and that’s okay. Some are visual, some are auditory, and some would rather chew a toy in peace. Just like us, they’ve got preferences, and quirks that make them who they are. In a world full of screen time, our four‑legged friends are discovering what’s enjoyable, and what’s not so enjoyable on TV. Their preferences are as unique as their personalities. So the next time your dog hops onto the couch for “movie night,” pay attention: they just might be telling you what kind of movie they prefer.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Is It Safe to Keep Fish in a Small Bowl?

Fish can be peaceful, mesmerizing pets, perfect for those looking to add a bit of calm to their daily routine. But when it comes to setting up the right environment for them, the classic image of a lone goldfish in a clear, round bowl raises an important question: is it actually safe to keep fish in a small bowl?The short answer? No - not really.While fish bowls are often marketed as a simple, low-maintenance solution (especially for beginners), they fall short in several critical ways when it comes to keeping fish healthy and happy. Let’s explore why.Why Small Bowls Are Problematic for Fish1. Poor Water QualityOne of the biggest challenges in fishkeeping - especially in small containers - is maintaining clean, safe water. In a bowl, fish waste builds up quickly, causing harmful levels of ammonia and nitrates. Without a filtration system to remove these toxins, the water becomes increasingly dangerous for the fish. Even frequent water changes often aren’t enough to keep up in such a small volume.

How To Stop Your Cat From Catching Wildlife

(photo credit: Klimek Pavol / shutterstock.com)Those of us with indoor cats and a deck or backyard will almost certainly find it hard to curtail our feline’s natural desire to sit outside, take in some sun, and chase every leaf that blows or flutters. Mine are content to remain in their backyard and imagine they could actually catch the squirrels and birds that float in and out of their world. They couldn’t if they tried but the problem is, that once upon a time they could. And many cats are in fact stealthy hunters that can bring home their wildlife “catch” on a rather regular basis.It's disturbing for us, can impact the ecosystem that surrounds us, and is unnecessary for the cat given they have all the food they need, sitting in a nice little bowl beside the kitchen door. They’re not hunting out of hunger but out of sport.So, how do you prevent your cat from engaging in such predatory behavior? There are a couple of tricks that range from hampering their ability to catch prey to ensuring area wildlife is not made vulnerable to discouraging the cat’s need / desire to hunt and kill.Eliminate OpportunitiesBecause felines tend to be opportunistic hunters who will pursue anything that catches their eye, it helps to know how to avoid this type of meet-up. One of the most obvious ways to prevent such encounters is to understand how and when they’re most likely to occur.Spring and summer are prime prey seasons because baby birds are learning to fly and tend to flutter to the ground - where they’re now highly vulnerable. So, keep your cats indoors, on a leash, or consider using a cat enclosure or pen during these times of the year.Similarly, when light levels are low during early morning and early dusk, wildlife is vulnerable because that’s when rodents and birds tend to be outside of their nests or dens, actively searching for food. The lesson here? Schedule little FiFi’s outdoor jaunts to daylight hours when you can monitor activity.And when setting up bird feed stations, it’s recommended to keep them at least six to seven feet away from thick shrubbery where cats can hide and lay in wait. And, to invest in a no-spill bird feeder option that minimizes the seed spillover that causes birds to fly down to the ground to pick up bits and pieces.

New Treatment Offers Hope for Dogs with Herniated Disks

If your dog suddenly yelps for no reason, starts limping, or, worst of all, begins dragging their back legs, your mind goes straight to panic mode. You Google, you call the vet, and the word surgery comes up faster than you can say “walkies.” It’s terrifying, and not just for your dog. But there’s something new stirring hope at Texas A&M University: a promising clinical trial using a special enzyme injection to treat herniated disks in dogs. No surgery. No long hospital stays. Just a targeted injection and the potential for a new chance at life.“This could change how we treat spinal injuries in dogs,” says Dr. Nick Jeffery, the neurologist leading the study at Texas A&M’s College of Veterinary Medicine. “We’re using a naturally derived enzyme to dissolve the herniated material that’s pressing on the spinal cord. It’s quick, minimally invasive, and so far, the results have exceeded expectations.”Herniated disks, technically known as intervertebral disk disease, or IVDD, are heartbreakingly common, especially in small breeds with long backs: think dachshunds, beagles, French bulldogs, and corgis. One wrong jump off the couch, and suddenly your happy-go-lucky pup can’t walk, can’t stand, and might be in serious pain.Traditionally, surgery has been the only real option. But it’s costly, carries risks, and recovery can be rough. Not every dog is a good surgical candidate, and not every family can pay a multi-thousand-dollar vet bill, even if they desperately want to.That’s where this trial comes in, and it already has promising results.Oscar, a five-year-old dachshund, is living proof. One morning, he just couldn’t walk. “He tried to get up and collapsed,” recalls his owner, Ashley. “He looked confused and scared, and I was a wreck.” Her vet referred her to Texas A&M just in time. Oscar received the enzyme injection less than 48 hours after his symptoms began, and within days, he was wagging again.According to the study, which involved 54 small-breed dogs, the success rate has been remarkable. Nearly all the dogs who still had feeling in their back legs recovered mobility quickly. Even a few with more severe symptoms showed significant improvement. And so far, no dog has experienced any major side effects.Of course, there are caveats. Timing is everything; dogs need to receive the injection within about three days of symptoms showing up. The trial is currently limited to small dogs, and it’s only happening at Texas A&M’s teaching hospital for now. But if the results continue to be this strong, there’s real potential for wider availability in the near future.“It’s not a magic fix, but it’s the closest thing we’ve seen,” Dr. Jeffery says. “We want owners to know that if their dog shows signs of back pain or weakness, time matters. Getting to a vet right away can make the difference between a simple injection and a much more complicated road.”The treatment, called chondroitinase injection therapy, works by dissolving the gel-like center of the slipped disk that’s putting pressure on the spinal cord. Think of it like deflating a balloon that’s gotten stuck in the wrong place. Once the pressure is off, the spinal cord can start to recover, and so can the dog.And while it’s still early days, the results are exciting. Less invasive care, lower costs, shorter recovery time, and a whole lot less trauma for everyone involved. For dog lovers, that’s huge.For now, the team at Texas A&M continues its work, hoping to expand access and gather more data. But the message for pet parents is clear: if something’s off, don’t wait. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Lost Ferret Found 10 Miles From Home

Reading about missing pets being reunited with their families is always wonderful. Sometimes, it’s with the help of AI or drones, while other times, a microchip saves the day. Whether it’s days, weeks, months, or even years later, when a lost pet is able to go home again, it’s a time to celebrate. But you typically hear about lost dogs and cats, not ferrets.

Cancer Warning After Cat Had Her Ears Amputated Due to Sun Damage

Vets are warning owners of cats with light-colored ears to protect their felines from potentially cancer-causing sun damage. Gracie, a seven-year-old white cat, had to have both of her ear flaps amputated after tests showed cancerous cells in both ears. The damage to Gracie’s ears was caused by prolonged exposure to sunlight. Last summer, the Bracknell & Wokingham branch of the Cat Protection charity took Gracie in as a stray. The charity’s vets were shocked by the severity of the damage caused to the cat’s ears by too much exposure to the sunlight.The staff named the feline Crispy because of the damage to her ears. The then-six-year-old feline had both of her ear flaps removed at their base to prevent the cancer from spreading. As it turns out, that decision saved Gracie’s life, as vets are now sure the cancer would have spread all over her body.To compensate for the lack of both ear flaps, Gracie moves her head more to better locate sounds. One year later, and fully recovered after the surgery, Crispy has been renamed Gracy and has been adopted by Beryl and Tom Henry in Bracknell, Berkshire. The fact that Gracie had both of her ears amputated didn’t deter Ms Henry from adopting her. “I fell in love with her as soon as I saw her, and she was absolutely lovely,” Ms Henry told the BBC. “Inside she’s wonderful. Her looks don’t count… I love her to bits.”The Cat Protection charity advises cat owners to keep light-colored felines indoors while the sun is at its hottest. Providing outdoor shade areas and applying sunscreen to a cat’s ears and nose can also help keep vulnerable cats protected against sun damage. Nikki Butcher from the Cat Protection charity said: “Vets probably saved Gracie’s life by spotting the severity of the sun damage to her crispy ears and then treating her so effectively.”  “Any cats that are light-furred or have unpigmented ears or noses are particularly susceptible to sun damage. If it’s caught early, it can be surgically trimmed. In Gracie’s case, because it was such extensive damage, then the decision was taken to take the flaps down to the base.”“Additional tests indicated that was a life-saving decision for Gracie as it could have spread to the rest of her body,” added Butcher. Sadly, Gracie isn’t alone. The Cat Protection charity has witnessed too many cats suffering the effects of sun damage that can be easily prevented. When it comes to keeping cats protected from the sun, it’s important to remember that sun protection isn’t just for summer. Light-colored cats can also get sunburns on cloudy days and in snowy conditions where UV rays reflect off the surface.Limiting your cat’s exposure to the sun during the hottest part of the day and applying vet-approved sunscreen for cats are the best ways to keep your feline safe and healthy. Keep in mind that not all sunscreens are safe for pets, and some are more effective than others. Avoid sunscreens that contain zinc oxide or para-aminobenzoic acid, as these ingredients are toxic to pets. To keep your feline protected during hot summer days, apply sunscreen to the most vulnerable areas of its body, including the nose, ears, belly, and areas with thin fur. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

5 Common Garden Hazards to Keep Away From Pets

While gardens may seem like a safe space for pets to roam free, they can sometimes harbor surprising dangers that many pet parents overlook. Whether you're planting a new bed of flowers or letting your dog sunbathe on the lawn, here are five garden hazards that could put your pets at risk.

How Do I Know if My Cat Has a Fever?

It’s a moment that triggers worry in any cat parent – when you’re snuggling with your kitty and petting their soft fur, only to notice your best friend is feeling a little warmer than usual. Could it be a fever? A fever in cats, like humans, is a natural defense mechanism where the body elevates the body temperature to fight off an underlying issue. While it may be a minor concern that will resolve with time, it could also be a sign of something more serious. This guide will walk you through the warning signs, potential causes, and most importantly, how to help your cat when that worrying warmth appears. Spotting the Signs of a Fever in CatsIt’s a common belief that a warm nose or forehead signals a fever in pets, but when it comes to cats, this isn’t always a reliable way to check. In fact, relying on this alone could mean missing important signs that your cat isn’t feeling well. We need to tune into a broader range of warning signs, including changes in behavior or physical symptoms. Here are some key signs to watch out for: Lethargy and Reduced Activity: You may notice your typically energetic kitty is spending more time sleeping or showing less interest in their favorite toys. They may seem “out of it,” making them less inclined to jump, explore, or engage in their usual games and activities. Loss of Appetite (Anorexia): If your cat turns their nose up at their meals, especially if they are usually a big foodie, it is a significant red flag. A fever can often suppress their appetite, even leading them to turn down their favorite treats. Decreased Water Intake: While it may seem counterintuitive, a cat with a fever might actually drink less. Cats are prone to dehydration regularly, and a lack of proper hydration can quickly turn into a serious concern. It’s essential to monitor their water bowl and overall fluid intake. Hiding or Withdrawing: When cats feel unwell, they often seek a quiet, out-of-the-way spot for solace. If your usually social cat suddenly starts hiding under furniture or in dark corners, it could be a sign that they are not feeling well. Rapid Breathing or Panting: Unlike dogs, cats don’t typically pant to cool down. When a cat is panting, it’s usually a sign of trouble. An increased breathing rate or, more concerningly, open-mouthed breathing may be a sign of pain, discomfort, or even fever. It’s crucial to remember that panting could also signal serious respiratory issues, and it always warrants a call to the vet. Shivering: Just like us, cats can shiver when they have a fever, even if the room temperature is at a comfortable level. This is their body’s way of trying to generate heat. Changes in Grooming Habits: Cats are meticulous with their grooming routine, so if that starts to drop, it could be a sign that they are feeling “off.” A lack of grooming can lead to a matted or unkempt coat. On the other hand, some cats may over-groom a particular area due to localized pain or discomfort, causing irritation or bald spots. Vomiting or Diarrhea: While not a direct indicator of a fever, many illnesses that trigger a rise in body temperature are also associated with gastrointestinal problems. Remember, these symptoms may indicate various other health problems in your cat, not just a fever. Observing these signs is the first step, but to get a definitive diagnosis and a plan of action to help your cat feel better, you will need to contact your veterinarian. They can run the necessary tests to better understand what is happening and how to help. How to Take Your Cat’s Temperature Let’s be honest, the thought of taking your cat’s temperature may feel a little daunting, especially if this is your first time. Luckily, it doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. With some planning, a calm approach, and a few simple steps, you can make this process as easy as possible for you and your kitty. Here’s a step-by-step guide to taking your cat’s temperature rectally, which is generally considered the best approach for an accurate measurement: Gather Your Supplies: You’ll need a digital thermometer (ideally one designed for pets, as they often have flexible tips and faster readings), a small amount of lubricant like petroleum jelly, and some high-value treats and/or a willing helper to provide a gentle distraction. Create a Calm Environment: Choose a quiet, comfortable space where your cat feels relatively secure. Avoid busy, noisy, or high-traffic areas that could increase their anxiety. If your cat is already stressed from the environment, the experience will only escalate it. Position and/or Restraint: Gently position your cat, either standing or lying on their side. If your cat tends to be wiggly or unsure about this process, using a towel wrapped around the body may be helpful to keep them secure and comfortable. Gentle Insertion: Apply a small amount of lubricant to the tip of the digital thermometer. Gently lift your cat’s tail and carefully insert the lubricated thermometer about one inch into their rectum. Hold the thermometer in place until it beeps, indicating the reading is complete. This usually only takes a few seconds with a digital thermometer. Clean-Up: Once you have the reading, gently remove the thermometer and clean it thoroughly with soap and water or rubbing alcohol. Reward: Immediately offer your cat a special treat and plenty of praise. This is an essential step as it will help to create a positive association with the experience, so they are less stressed the next time their temperature is taken. A word of caution: avoid using human oral thermometers on your cat. They are not designed for rectal use and can be inaccurate, possibly causing injury. While rectal thermometers are generally preferred for their accuracy, other options are available. For example, ear thermometers are a good solution for cats who refuse to have their temperature taken the traditional way. The technical use and specific model may influence the accuracy, but they can still provide a useful indication with proper use and calibration. Now that you have the temperature, it’s important to understand what those numbers mean. A healthy adult cat's normal body temperature range is typically between 100.5 and 12.5-degrees Fahrenheit. A fever in cats is generally considered to be a temperature above 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit.

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