Is It OK To Let My Cat Sleep In My Bed?

Should My Cat Sleep in My Bed?

Final Thoughts - Should My Cat Sleep in My Bed?There is no “right” answer as to whether your cat should be allowed to sleep in your bed. While your furry friend could provide comfort and warmth through those long nights, they may also trigger health problems or keep you awake.Cat parents need to weigh the pros and cons, consider their cat’s personality and sleeping habits, factor in their own needs, and decide on the best solution for everyone. If you need your own space at night for a restful night’s sleep, there are other options that you can provide, including heated cat beds, cozy condos, and relaxing hammocks. Whatever you decide, the ultimate goal is to set up your home so everyone can get the sleep they need to live a happy, healthy life!Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Can I Let My Cat Go Outdoors Safely?

As cat lovers and parents, we understand our kitties' curiosity and desire for the great outdoors. We’ll often find our two cats sitting by the window, entirely in a trance, as they watch the birds or just the leaves moving in the breeze. But the thought of letting them roam freely outside stirs up many worries about their safety – we don’t endorse the outdoor cat lifestyle. Does this mean our cats are stuck indoors without ever having the chance to feel the grass under their paws? Not necessarily! This article will delve into the exciting world of outdoor adventures for your cat while prioritizing their safety. Whether it's learning the art of leash and harness training, creating a cat paradise in the form of a catio, or exploring other safe containment options, you can rest assured that your indoor cat will enjoy the wonders of nature without compromising their well-being. Do Indoor Cats Want to Be Outside? It’s a question that we often hear as cat parents, especially having such an outdoor-focused lifestyle ourselves. Do our indoor cats want to be outside? Does keeping them indoors somehow take away from their quality of life? Would it be better to give them the freedom to explore the outdoors around us? The truth is that you can give a cat an incredible and fulfilled life indoors. In fact, most experts recommend an indoor life for cats to keep them safe and extend their lifespan. Of course, there are pros and cons to both indoor and outdoor lifestyles. Many indoor cats suffer from obesity and other unhealthy lifestyle challenges due to a lack of physical activity. They may also feel bored due to a lack of enrichment in their daily lives. Luckily, these are challenges that you can overcome. If you have an indoor cat, there are a few key elements of their lives that you need to consider, including: Feeding a healthy, balanced diet Encouraging daily physical activity Supporting their instinctual urges (scratching, hunting, etc.)Providing mental enrichmentThis isn’t to say that your indoor cat is never interested in exploring outside, especially if they spend much of their time watching wildlife through the window. Many indoor cats are curious about the sights and smells.

Should My Dog Sleep in My Bed or on the Floor?

Do you share the bed with your dog or does he have his own? Set clear rules for your dog to follow, and make sure the whole family sticks to them. Few topics are as contentious in a household as the dogs-on-the-furniture question. Should you let him sleep with you? Will bed or sofa access make your dog dominant? Can he sometimes be allowed on the bed, and sometimes not? The answer is not a clear-cut “yes” or “no.” The rules depend on the individuals, both two- and four-legged, in your home. Let’s look at your options. Option 1: Always let your dog on the furniture There’s nothing wrong with the dog on the furniture, provided that all the humans in the household support it, and the dog is responsible enough to earn this privilege. “Responsible” means no resource guarding of the furniture or the people on it. If your dog growls or snaps at anyone while on the sofa or bed, his furniture license should be immediately revoked until you can get assistance from a qualified trainer. “Responsible” also means that your dog can control himself while on the furniture: no shoving you into the corner, no stealing food from your hand or the side table, etc. Related: Does Sharing a Bed With Your Dog Affect Your Sleep? If your dog is given free access to the couch or bed, you will have to be comfortable with some of the consequences. Your pillow will likely be covered in dog hair (or slobber); rawhides may disappear into couch cushions; and if you leave your laptop on the couch, your dog might email gibberish to everyone in your address book. Option 2: Sometimes let your dog on the furniture This method gives your dog access to the furniture, but only with your permission. This is my preferred method, but you have to train your dog that he can only hang with you if certain conditions are met. Similar to the above scenario, furniture privileges should be earned, so resource guarders or bed hogs will have to stay on the floor. Here is how to teach your dog to ask “please” to be invited on the furniture with you: When you are on the couch or bed and your dog approaches it, ask him once to “sit.” If needed, use your forearm to gently block him from simply jumping up. The moment he sits, lean back and pat the cushion to invite him up. If he does not sit upon request (and remember to only say “sit” once), say “oh well” and ignore him. Use your body to prevent him from jumping up.Repeat this every single time he approaches the furniture you’re on. Only a sitting dog gets permission to join you. A dog who does not sit, or one who tries to jump up without asking first, gets denied and body-blocked. It’s perfectly fine to tell your dog “nope,” even if he politely asks to join you. Just because he asks nicely doesn’t mean he always gets what he wants. If you don’t want your dog on the furniture unattended, block the area by shutting the door or placing a hard object (such as a flattened cardboard box) on top of the furniture. You can’t train when you’re not there. Related: Top 10 Dog Breeds that Snore [Video] Option 3: Never let your dog on the furniture Dogs lived happily for tens of thousands of years without sofas, so don’t feel badly having a no-dogs-on-the-furniture rule. If you plan to ban the dog from the furniture, make sure everyone in the family follows the same rules. Should your dog try to join you on the furniture, gently block him with your forearm and then engage him with something appropriate on the floor level, like a chewy or a toy. Teaching him “place” to his dog bed will also convince him that the floor is where it’s at. Finally, make sure your dog has a desirable floor option. Different dogs like different sleeping surfaces: a crate with a mat, a bed with elevated sides to rest his head, a burrow bed to hide in, a mat near a window, or even a cool tile floor. Remember that when you’re not home, you can’t enforce the rules. If you don’t want your dog making himself comfy on your couch, block his access to the couch or to the room entirely, and give him a suitable bed to sleep on instead. Regardless of the option you choose, consistency is key. If all members of your family enforce the same rules, your dog will quickly learn where to sleep.

How to Prevent E. Coli in Dogs

We often talk about the importance of addressing bacteria to keep people safe, but what about our pets? One example that can also put our furry friends at risk is E. coli.E. coli bacteria can be a serious threat to dogs, causing a range of illnesses, from mild diarrhea to severe kidney failure. While most dogs will recover with proper treatment, prevention is key. After all, no dog parent wants to see their best friend suffer unnecessarily.This blog post will look at the common causes of E. coli infection in dogs, effective ways to prevent an infection, and when you should seek veterinary care. By understanding the risks and taking steps to keep your pup safe, you can help them live a happy, healthy life.What is E. Coli?Escherichia coli, better known as E. coli, is a type of bacteria commonly found in the intestines of humans and other animals. Some strains are beneficial, serving important roles like helping to digest food and producing vitamin K. However, not all E. coli bacteria strains are good.Harmful E. coli strains produce toxins that can damage the lining of the intestines, leading to feeling sick and uncomfortable. In severe cases, E. coli infections can be life-threatening.For dogs, the most dangerous strains of E. coli are those that produce Shiga toxin, a bacterial toxin that damages red blood cells and the lining of the intestines. This can lead to severe complications like hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a condition that can negatively impact the negativities and the blood clotting system. HUS can be fatal if left untreated.Symptoms of an E.Coli Infection in DogsIf you suspect your dog may have an E. coli infection, it’s crucial to recognize the signs and seek veterinary care promptly. While the symptoms of E. coli can sometimes mimic other illnesses, identifying the common signs of trouble can help you know when to take immediate action.Common symptoms include:Diarrhea: This is often a primary symptom, and the stool may be watery or contain blood.Vomiting: Dogs with E. coli infections may experience vomiting, which can be accompanied by loss of appetite.Lethargy: Infected dogs may appear tired, weak, or less active than usual.Dehydration: Severe diarrhea and vomiting can lead to dehydration, which can be life-threatening. Signs of dehydration include decreased skin elasticity, sunken eyes, and dry gums.Abdominal Pain: Your dog may show signs of discomfort or pain in their abdomen.If your dog exhibits any of these symptoms, it’s important to contact your veterinarian immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to give your pup the best chance of a quick recovery and prevent complications. Your veterinarian may perform a fecal test to confirm the presence of the bacteria before recommending the best course of action.

Roaming Roman Becomes a TikTok Fave

From starving stray to living his best life, this rescue hound's story has gone viral.

New Dolce & Gabbana Dog Fragrance Is Causing a Buzz

Vets not keen yet thousands of pet owners still opt to spritz away those stinky dog smells.

Chasing Some Great Products for Your Senior Dog?

What Are the Top Cleaning Products for Pet-Based Households?

(photo credit: New Africa / shutterstock.com)Living in a home with three dogs and two cats, believe me, I understand the challenges of eliminating funky pet odor. The thing is, I’m a big proponent of cleaning versus masking. I don’t want my house smelling like someone set off a rose-scented Glade bomb to cover up the smell of my fur crew. In fact, I think the only thing worse than pet smells, is a heavy artificial scent layered on top of those smells, thinking it covered them up. You know what I’m talking about.So, when I can find an effective way to actually clean and freshen my shared living space, I’m all in. Especially when I can do it myself by simply rotating it into my usual house-cleaning regimen. And that’s why finding products that are quick, easy and more importantly effective, is the order of the day in my home. Because we all know that our efforts can be thwarted in the blink of an eye if your pet has a dicky tummy or trots something icky into the house and across your carpets and soft furnishings.Location, Location, Location!

Scientists Record Cat Brain Activity with Crocheted Hats

Cat parents and researchers alike often wonder what goes on in the minds of felines, and it can be hard to figure out what they’re feeling. Well, scientists have found a new way to record the electrical activity of a cat’s brain while they are awake, and they used adorable crocheted caps to do it.

How to Make a Homemade Thundershirt

Is your dog or cat afraid of loud noises like fireworks or thunderstorms? If so, you may have come across this guide searching for a solution to help them feel calmer or more relaxed when faced with these triggers.The Thundershirt is one of the most popular products on the market. However, you may not have the time, access, or budget to purchase one when you need it most. If that is the case, you’re in luck. You can still offer the soothing effects of a Thundershirt by making a budget-friendly, DIY option.In this guide, I will walk you through the benefits of using a Thundershirt, steps to make your own homemade version and other solutions you may want to consider to help your pet feel secure and relaxed during stressful situations. Don’t leave your furry friend struggling with stress and anxiety when the solution is so easy!Signs Your Dog is Anxious or Afraid Before I break down the process of creating a DIY anti-anxiety wrap for your dog, let’s take a moment to discuss when your dog may benefit from wearing one. We often think of anxiety in terms of the ongoing mental health struggle many humans face. While it is possible for a dog to also face a similar struggle, anxiety in dogs is often triggered by a specific situation or fear. Anxiety, fear, and stress could be associated with a new or unfamiliar environment, the presence of strangers or unknown dogs, loud noises like fireworks and thunderstorms, or even a reflection of our own stress being sensed and shared by our canine companions. Some of the most common signs your dog is afraid or anxious include: Excessive panting or yawning Lip-licking Displaying their teeth Growling, barking, or nipping as a warning or form of self-protection Showing the whites of their eyes (also known as whale eyes)Cowering or trying to hide Submissive urination Tail tucked between their legs Reluctance to take food or treats Ears pulled backward or pressed forward against the head Shaking or trembling Sometimes, the signs of fear and anxiety will be obvious. However, at other times, the signs will be very subtle. As a dog parent, you must be familiar with your dog’s body language and the early signs that they may be uncomfortable. This will allow you to address their concerns, prioritize your dog’s well-being, and prevent a potentially dangerous situation. How Do Dog Anti-Anxiety Vests Work? If you have never been introduced to an anti-anxiety vest or wrap before, you may be curious about how they work. This drug-free solution uses something called “pressure therapy,” which uses gentle, consistent pressure to signal to the body to release feel-good hormones like dopamine and oxytocin. It’s the same technique behind the use of weighted blankets and swaddling. An anti-anxiety vest or wrap, like the Thundershirt, snuggly wraps around your dog’s chest and abdomen to put pressure in the right places to achieve this feeling of calmness, relaxation, and security. Where Can I Purchase an Anti-Anxiety Vest or Wrap? If you have the budget and time to shop for an anti-anxiety vest or wrap, there are many different options on the market. The brand name Thundershirt is the most commonly recognized brand, but it isn’t the only option. Whether you’re shopping at your local pet store, a big box store, or online, several are available, each with unique benefits. I recommend reading through the different features that set one product apart from another. For example, some anti-anxiety vests incorporate additional calming options like aromatherapy, while others are made from a more breathable material for hot climates or overly active dogs. Here are a few options I have tried and highly recommend: Classic Thundershirt for Dogs Thundershirt Sport for Dogs CozyVest 3-in-1 Dog Anxiety Vest Mellow Shirt Dog Anxiety Calming WrapHow to Make Your Own DIY Thundershirt for DogsEven if you have the budget to purchase an anti-anxiety vest, you may find yourself needing to address your dog’s anxiety before you have time to go shopping in person or wait for an online purchase to be delivered. For example, you may have come across this guide because you are currently trying to calm your dog during a thunderstorm. To make your DIY anti-anxiety wrap, you will need a long rectangle of fabric approximately twice the length of your dog’s body. Some options for this include: Cut up an old t-shirt, blanket, or towel A large scarf An ACE bandage or elastic bandageOnce you have your fabric strip, fold it in half to find the center. To make it easy to apply in the future, I recommend putting a tiny mark here with a pen or permanent marker. Place the marked spot at the center of your dog’s chest and bring the ends of the fabric around to the back by their shoulders. Cross the ends, bringing them back down to the stomach, where you will cross them again before bringing them up to the back and tying them off. As you go through this process, keep steady pressure and tension on the fabric so that the final wrap is snug and provides the pressure needed for the full effect. However, be careful not to tie it off too tightly. If it’s too tight, it can cause even more stress. Do you prefer this DIY approach, rather than purchasing an anti-anxiety vest? If so, you can take a couple of steps to transform your quick DIY into a longer-lasting solution that you can continue to use for weeks, months, and even years to come. First, depending on your chosen fabric, you may want to stitch the sides to prevent it from fraying or falling apart. This will also create a more polished appearance if you plan on using your homemade anxiety wrap when out in public with your dog. The second upgrade I recommend is the addition of Velcro to fasten it. Use a longer strip of the loop side (the soft, fuzzy side of the Velcro) that runs along the length of the fabric and a shorter patch of the hook side (the rough, scratchy side) on the other side. This will make it easy for you to adjust the fabric's tension and where the sides connect in the future if the fabric starts to stretch out from repeated use.

Does My Dog Need a Stroller?

Is a dog stroller a necessity or an extravagant splurge? While some may raise an eyebrow at the site of a dog riding comfortably in their stroller, these seemingly luxury items offer many benefits for both dogs and their owners. From providing a safe and comfortable way to transport your dog in various settings to accommodating mobility concerns and enhancing their quality of life, let’s explore why a dog stroller may be a great choice for your dog. Plus, I’ll share tips for choosing the best dog stroller for your pup and how to incorporate it effectively into your daily routine. What Are Dog Strollers? Let’s start at the beginning. What exactly are dog strollers? Are they the same as baby strollers? Can the two be used interchangeably? While dog strollers look similar to baby strollers in many ways, they have a few key features that differentiate the two. Most importantly, dog strollers incorporate a way to keep your dog secured and held in place so they can’t hop out and escape, like a zippered mesh cover or a leash attachment that can be hooked to their harness. They are often described as a “fancy dog crate on wheels.” The most basic models are soft-sided dog crates with wheels and a handle. But most offer other features, like adjustable or padded handlebars, cup holders, storage pockets and compartments, sunshades, and ramps for easy access. Is it Okay to Put Your Dog in a Stroller? An important question that every pet parent should ask when being introduced to a new product is whether it’s actually safe and beneficial for your pet. After all, just because it’s being sold and marketed doesn’t mean it’s good for them. When it comes to dog strollers, the answer is “maybe.” If you have a healthy dog, only taking them out in a stroller and not making space for the exercise and physical activity they require can lead to a whole list of health problems. However, there are many situations where a dog stroller can be used to improve your dog’s quality of health. In short, this means that, yes, there are times when it is okay to put your dog in a stroller. It is our responsibility as dog parents to recognize the right time and place for their use. Are Dog Strollers Only for Small Dogs? One of the most common misconceptions about dog strollers is that they are only designed for small dogs or toy breeds. While this is arguably the most common type of dog stroller on the market, it’s not the only option. Recognizing the benefits these products offer, many brands now make dog strollers with larger dogs in mind. This includes creating sturdier frames that can support heavier weights, offering more room for large dogs to sit or lie down comfortably, and even adding features like ramps to help our larger friends get in and out of the stroller when lifting them isn’t an option. A great example is the HPZ Pet Rover Titan-HD, designed for dogs up to 100 LBS. So, while your standard stroller may not be the right solution (not without breaking it), big dog strollers are available!

Environmental Enrichment for Hamsters

Like other pets, hamsters benefit from environmental enrichment that makes it possible for them to behave much like they would in the wild. Sure, you want an enclosure that will be large enough for them to move about comfortably, with areas for eating and sleeping, but you can do a lot more to keep your little hamster happy and stress-free. Here are a few easy ways to enrich your hamster’s environment and help them thrive.

Curious Doggo Spotted on Top of the Great Egyptian Pyramid

Dogs really do get in the most awkward of places. Curious and mischievous, they never fail to surprise us with their antics. But one doggo from Egypt broke all records. A team of U.S. paragliders, led by Marshall Mosher, flew one morning over the famous Great Pyramids at Giza, enjoying the stunning views below them. However, they did not expect to spot a stray doggo on the pyramid's very top, some 138.5 meters (454.4 ft) high."We noticed something running back and forth on top of the pyramid," Mosher said in an interview with CNN Travel. "One person thought it was a mountain lion."Surprised at the unexpected discovery, the floating paragliders zoomed in on the doggo, trying to preserve the moment. Much to their surprise, the dog was simply chasing the birds that stood atop the Pyramid of Khafre, seemingly unaware of the great height he was at. "Maybe he was stuck up there," Mosher thought at the moment, recalling his worry. But he at once realized the situation. "If he got himself up, he can get himself down unless he found some secret portal that helped him teleport to the top of the pyramids," he said jokingly. The very next day, the paragliding team once more flew over the area, hoping to learn of the dog’s situation. They did not spot him this time. However, a fellow adventurer filmed the doggo earlier, seeing him safely descending the steps of the great pyramid. Dogs near the pyramids are a common sight. There are many strays in Giza, and they often roam near the pyramid complex. However, they don’t always climb all the way to the top. Mosher said that the number of strays was worrying, and that he is actively looking for animal shelters in Cairo that could accommodate all these dogs. Mosher also shared the video of the dog on social media, and the sight quickly became viral. Almost overnight, his Instagram posts gained millions of views. Needless to say, he was surprised with all the attention."I thought the opportunity to fly over the pyramids was decently interesting news, but no one cares about that," he said jokingly, noting that the sight of the doggo was far more unique. Some commentators on Instagram went as far as to draw a connection between the dog and the Ancient Egyptian deity, Anubis, who was often depicted as a man with a jackal’s head. Was it a simple coincidence, the roamings of a curious dog, or something much more mysterious? You be the judge.

4 Hairless Cat Breeds

Although you might be familiar with the Sphynx cat, there are other hairless breeds that are just as intriguing and worth checking out if you want to add a rare hairless kitty to your household. Here are four hairless cat breeds and some of their distinctive features.   

Are Bernedoodles High Maintenance?

Bernedoodles – a delightful mix of Bernese Mountain Dogs and Poodles – have skyrocketed in popularity, and it’s easy to see why. They’re charming, intelligent, playful, and often sport hypoallergenic coats that make them ideal companions for many dog lovers. But are these lovable hybrids high-maintenance pets? While Bernedoodles aren’t the most demanding breed, they do have specific needs when it comes to grooming, exercise, and mental stimulation. Here’s everything you need to know to decide if a Bernedoodle fits your lifestyle.Grooming: A Must for That Gorgeous CoatOne of the first questions potential owners ask is whether Bernedoodles’ grooming needs are overwhelming. These dogs typically have low-shedding coats, ranging from wavy to curly, but that doesn’t mean they’re entirely fuss-free. Without regular maintenance, their fur can easily mat, leading to discomfort and skin issues.Brushing: Aim to brush your Bernedoodle’s coat 2–3 times a week to keep it tidy and tangle-free. Investing in a high-quality grooming kit can make the task much easier.

What Collar is Best for My Dog?

When choosing a collar for our dogs, we often focus on elements like the color, pattern, or preferred material. However, there is much more to consider than just the style and aesthetic. Selecting the best collar is essential for your dog’s safety, comfort, and overall well-being.However, with so many different collar options available, deciding which will best suit your dog and their lifestyle can be overwhelming.This guide will break down the different types of collars, their purpose, and the factors you should consider. From standard nylon collars to tick-prevention products, you’ll find everything you need to make a confident decision when shopping for your dog.Choosing the Right Collar for Your DogSelecting a collar can feel overwhelming. There is so much to consider, from functionality to style. So, let’s start at square one. Here are the most common types of dog collars and the situations they are most often recommended for:Traditional Flat Collar This is the most common type of dog collar you will see. Traditional flat collars get their name because they lay flat against your dog’s neck. They come in a wide variety of colors, patterns, and materials, including leather, nylon, cotton, and Biothane, among others. The collars usually feature a D-ring or O-ring to attach a leash or hold your dog’s ID tags and a buckle to make it easy to put the collar on/take it off as needed. Flat collars are the most recommended option for ensuring your dog has basic identification on them on a day-to-day basis. Most dogs wear a flat collar around their yard, in the car, on walks, and in other routine situations. Martingale Collar At first glance, a martingale collar looks similar to a flat collar. However, when you look closer, you’ll see an additional loop on the back of the collar that tightens when the dog pulls. The slight tightening can be used to train a dog not to pull when walking, making it a popular training tool. Martingale collars also help prevent a dog from pulling their head out of the collar and escaping, which is an important consideration for dogs who are a flight risk or those with narrow heads roughly the same circumference as their neck, like sighthounds. They are often used in shelters and rescue organizations for this reason.Head CollarMany will argue that these aren’t just a collar. However, they do include a portion that goes around the neck, and they serve a purpose comparable to other collars on the list, so I feel they deserve to be mentioned. Head collars are best described as a horse halter for dogs. One loop of the collar goes around the neck like usual, while a second loop goes around the snout. The leash attaches just below the snout, allowing the handler to direct the dog by guiding their head. These are a popular choice for dogs who pull. If your dog starts to pull, as they would with another collar type or on a harness, the head collar will cause the head to turn and redirect the dog back toward you. They are also recommended for situations where the handler may not have the physical ability to hold back a pulling dog. Head collars are widely used in the service dog community. Unfortunately, if misused, these collars can cause serious damage. This happens most often if the dog tries to bolt, jerking their head suddenly to the side and injuring the neck. The use of a head collar should be paired with proper training. Tracking Collars and GPS CollarIf you plan on traveling or adventuring with your dog, you may want to consider purchasing a GPS collar. They are also commonly recommended for dogs who are escape artists or flight risks. These collars feature a unit that tracks your pet's location and movement using global positioning satellite technology. This can help locate your dog if they wander off or get lost. There are two main types of GPS collars, such as: Basic Tracking Collars: The most common type, these collars rely on a nearby phone or device or the presence of a cellular network to pick up and transmit the collar’s location. Example: Fi Series 3 Smart Dog CollarHunting or Backcountry Trackers: These collars are a bigger investment due to their advanced tracking technology. They are designed to work in remote areas where basic tracking collars fail to connect. Example: Garmin Astro 430/T 5 Dog Tracking BundleAdditionally, tracking devices like the Tractive GPS Tracker for Dogs are separate units that can be attached to any collar, transforming your standard collar into a tracking collar. It should be noted that many tracking collars are not a “one and done” investment. Instead, you will need a monthly subscription for a small fee to keep using their network. For example, the subscription for Tractive devices starts at $5/month. If you cancel this subscription, you can no longer access the collar’s location.Flea/Tick CollarDesigned to help prevent fleas and ticks, these collars contain an anti-parasitic medication that is slowly released into your pet’s skin over time. Like a topical preventative, the active chemical is absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream and distributed throughout the body. While all collars work by killing fleas and ticks if they bite, others will work to repel the pests from even showing interest. These collars are still a chemical product and should be approached with caution. Some dogs will have adverse reactions. If introducing a flea/tick collar for the first time, monitor your dog carefully for any sign of trouble. LED CollarA growing trend with a focus on nighttime safety, LED collars feature bright LED lights that can be turned on, either as a solid light or with various flashing patterns, to make your dog visible in the dark. They come in one basic size and can then be cut down to fit your dog, making the collar easy to adjust to dogs of any size. Many of these collars are a one-time-use product, needing to be replaced when the included battery dies. However, with a growing interest in sustainability, companies are now selling rechargeable options. Our dogs wear the Nite Ize NiteHowl Max Rechargeable LED Safety Necklace. If you don’t want to deal with a full LED collar or prefer something you can keep safely tucked away in your pocket or purse to pull out when needed, the Nite Ize SpotLit Rechargeable Collar Light is a great option. This little light just clips onto their existing collar or harness.

What Do I Do if My Cat Ingests Marijuana?

We’ve all seen the funny social media videos of pets “greening out” after ingesting some weed, but can marijuana be dangerous for your cat? While it’s typically not fatal, marijuana toxicity can create a stressful situation for both you and your feline friend. In some cases, it can also have severe consequences. This guide will share the essential information you need to know about cats and marijuana, including the common symptoms of marijuana toxicity in cats, understanding the potential risks, and, most importantly, knowing what steps to take if your cat has ingested something they shouldn’t. Plus, we’ll discuss cat-friendly CBD products and share tips for calming your cat safely and effectively. Let’s get started… Is Marijuana Bad for Cats? With the growing number of states legalizing marijuana, this is a question that we have been hearing more frequently. Is marijuana toxic for cats? Should you be concerned if you accidentally leave something out and your cat now appears to be high? The short answer is yes! Cats are particularly sensitive to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the compound in marijuana that is responsible for the psychoactive effects (the relaxed, euphoric feeling that you experience). Plus, their small size means it takes significantly less to affect them. In most cases, if caught and addressed quickly, your cat will fully recover from marijuana toxicity. However, it can lead to long-term and even life-threatening complications. How Are Cats Exposed to Marijuana? In nearly all cases of marijuana toxicity, the affected cat wasn’t given marijuana to ingest. Instead, they get into something they shouldn’t, leading to trouble. There are several ways your cat may be exposed. If you or your friends/family smoke, ensure your cat is safely contained in another room. Even inhaling the second-hand smoke can have serious consequences. You can reduce the risk even further by placing a rolled towel along the bottom of the door to your cat’s safe room to block any smoke from entering. If you smoke outdoors, check first to ensure all windows are closed. Keep all marijuana and edibles up and out of your cat’s reach. Cats are curious creatures prone to nibbling on things they discover around the house. This includes live plants, dried weed products, marijuana-infused products, and even discarded joints. Signs of Marijuana Ingestion in Cats Most cases of marijuana toxicity aren’t identified because you see your cat nibbling on the offending product. Instead, it often starts with noticing that your cat is acting “off” and discovering the cause of trouble after a careful investigation. As cat parents, we should familiarize ourselves with the most common signs and symptoms. Knowing what to look for will allow us to identify and address the problem sooner. This includes: Drooling VomitingDilated pupils Extreme sleepiness or excitement Agitation, anxiety, or depressionExcessive vocalizationLoss of coordination or balanceLow blood pressure Slow heart rateLow body temperature TwitchingSeizures or comaSome cats will simply act "off." You know your cat better than anyone. Trust your gut, even if you can't pinpoint the exact signs or symptoms.

Jennifer Aniston Launches Fund to Help Animal Rescues

Animal shelters and rescue organizations often face significant financial burdens. Caring for animals in need, from food and shelter to veterinary costs and rehabilitation, isn’t cheap, and the bills can add up quickly! While these organizations collect adoption fees, they are rarely enough to cover operational costs. Instead, they rely heavily on donations and volunteers to keep their doors open.Recently, actress, producer and entrepreneur Jennifer Aniston announced her latest project – a children’s book titled Clydeo Takes a Bite Out of Life.Inspired by her Schnauzer mix rescue dog, Clyde, the book is the first in a four-book deal. In it, the main character, Clydeo, goes on a journey of self-discovery while searching for his true passions in life. Aniston hopes the book will inspire and motivate children to explore their own interests.“They’re so focused on these phones and just disappear into this void of scrolling,” she stated. “They don’t really spend time being stimulated by the world and figuring out what they want to do.”But how does this tie back to the costs of running a rescue organization? With the release of her book, Aniston also launched The Clydeo Fund. As a dog mom who understands the joy and love a rescue dog can bring into your life, she wanted to create a way to support animal rescue organizations across the country and worldwide.