Biotech Firms Might Make Ozempic Available for Pets

Loyal Pup's Warning Prevents Potential Disaster on Hike

Comments on the video praise Shona for keeping her mom safe, while warning Palmer to always pay attention when her pup sounds a warning. Aubrey McQue ( @aubreymq) stated, “Ridgebacks were bred to hunt lions originally. Definitely listen to her. She isn’t playing around.” While Chr!st!ine ( @christinehouchens) added, “One thing about me, I may not listen to anyone in the world,but I'm gon alwaysssss listen when my dog says no” Some commentors even shared their own stories of times a dog’s instincts saved a life. For example, ExcelChic ( @excelchic) wrote, “My uncle had a dog that never bared or growled. Until one day, dog wouldn’t get out of the truck and was growling like crazy. Mountain lion came running by. They know when somethings up.” We’ll never know what Shonda was concerned about that day, but we’re happy that Palmer trusted her pup’s instincts and decided to change her plans. We’d trust a dog first any day! Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Are Laser Toys Safe for My Cat?

It’s a classic feline spectacle, the tiny red dot that transforms your cat instantly into a furry ninja, chasing and leaping with unmatched intensity. But have you ever stopped to wonder… are laser toys really safe?The mesmerizing dance of the red dot has long captivated cats, from traditional laser pointers for fun interactive play with their human companions to automatic laser toys. However, somewhere amidst the playful leaps and bounds, many cat parents are now starting to express concerns about the potential risks these toys may pose.Are they genuinely harmless, or are there hidden dangers lurking beneath the surface of this seemingly innocent game? The truth is that it isn’t black and white.In this post, I will provide a balanced look at laser toy safety, addressing some of the most common concerns and offering practical tips to ensure your cat continues to enjoy safe, enjoyable play sessions, whether with or without the laser pointer. The Appeal of Laser Toys to Our CatsWhat is it about that little red dot that drives cats wild? The dancing light taps into your cat’s predatory instincts. As it darts across the floor, it mimics the movement of small prey, triggering their natural hunting drive. Think of it like a little bug skittering across your floor, the perfect target for your kitty to go after.This translates into some great benefits, especially for indoor cats who often don’t have the same opportunities for physical exercise and to use their hunting skills. Laser play sessions are an excellent outlet for pent-up energy, promoting heart health, and preventing unwanted weight gain.Beyond the physical benefits, laser toys offer valuable mental enrichment, engaging your cat’s focus and problem-solving skills as they use their brain to figure out the best approach to catch their prey. The shared experience of playing together is also a great way to strengthen your bond with one another, creating moments of joy and connection.Finally, one of the major reasons these toys appeal so much to cat parents is the price point and ease of use. Rather than investing in expensive or complicated toys, laser pointers offer a quick, easy, and budget-friendly way to entertain even the pickiest cats. Plus, there’s an entertainment factor for us, too – who doesn’t love watching their cat go crazy chasing the laser across the room?Potential Risks and ConcernsWhile there is no denying that laser toys are a fun option for entertainment, it’s crucial that, as loving, responsible cat parents, we understand the potential risks they pose so we can make the best decision for our feline family members. Eye SafetyOne of the biggest dangers associated with the use of laser pointers is the risk of eye injuries. Direct exposure to the concentrated laser beam can cause serious and potentially irreversible damage to your cat’s retina, leading to impaired vision and even blindness. Never, under any circumstances, should you point the laser directly into your cat’s eyes. Behavioral Concerns Cats are natural hunters, but their instincts and desires to hunt often revolve around a set sequence – stalking, chasing, pouncing, and finally, capturing their prey. That same sequence carries over into play that mimics hunting. Laser pointers work well to trigger the first stages of this sequence, tempting them to chase the elusive, darting light around the room. However, the concern lies in the fact that the “prey” is never truly caught. While this doesn’t bother all cats, some will find the inability to complete the hunting sequence frustrating. Over time, this lack of fulfillment in their hunting sequence can lead to the development of obsessive-compulsive behaviors.  You might observe your cat becoming fixated on any small light or shadow, especially if it moves even the slightest bit. They may also engage in repetitive, seemingly aimless behaviors, or develop anxiety and create a general sense of unease in your cat. Physical Safety HazardsNot all risks revolve directly around the use of the laser. When playing with a laser toy, most cats do so with impressive focus and excitement. This can quickly override their awareness of their surroundings, opening the door for accidents and injuries. Cats have been known to run into furniture, walls, or other obstacles in pursuit of that little red dot. There’s also a risk of falls, especially if your cat tends to scale furniture, cat shelves, and other surfaces to get to their prey. Psychological Impact of Laser Toy Play Beyond the frustration of being unable to catch their “prey,” the consistent lack of a physical reward can have a deeper psychological impact. Cats experience a unique sense of satisfaction with a successful hunt, one that is deeply ingrained. After all, a cat in the wild is obviously hunting to eat or feed their young. Too many “failed hunts” can lead to a sense of dissatisfaction and even learned helplessness. In time, your cat may start to associate playtime with frustration rather than enjoyment. This can lead to several behavior challenges, including redirected aggression. When your cat cannot catch the red dot, their prey, they may redirect that pent-up energy and frustration towards other targets, such as your hands, feet, or even other pets in your home. Best Practices for Safe Laser Toy Use Do you have a cat who LOVES their laser toy, and now you’re second-guessing your decisions as a cat parent? Even with the potential risks, you can still include laser toys in your cat’s play and enrichment as long as they are used responsibly. The following best practices will help minimize the dangers and ensure playtime continues to be both safe and fun. Choosing the Right Laser Toy When shopping for a laser pointer, stick to a product specifically labeled for pet use. They are typically low-powered and designed to minimize the risk of eye damage. Avoid using high-powered or industrial laser pointers made for presentations, construction, or other purposes, as these increase the threat of eye injuries. Look for a safety rating on the packaging or product listing for any laser pointer or laser toy you are considering. If you’re unsure, err on the side of caution and choose a product specifically labeled for pet use, like the PetSafe Dancing Dot Laser Cat Toy (a hit in our house).

Do Ferrets Make Good Pets?

Ferrets are energetic, intelligent little mammals that have gained popularity as pets thanks to their playful personalities and curious nature. While they can make rewarding companions, ferrets aren’t the right fit for everyone. Before bringing one home, it’s important to understand what living with a ferret really involves - including their care needs, temperament, and the kind of environment they thrive in.What Are Ferrets Like?Ferrets are members of the weasel family and typically weigh between 1 to 4 pounds. They have long, flexible bodies and come in colors like albino, sable, and silver. One of the most charming things about ferrets is their endless enthusiasm - they love to explore, dig, and tunnel. If you’ve ever seen a ferret do the “weasel war dance,” you know just how expressive and joyful they can be.Are Ferrets Friendly?Yes - and surprisingly social, too. Ferrets often form strong bonds with their owners and enjoy regular interaction. Many do well in pairs or small groups, as they naturally seek out companionship. With consistent handling, ferrets can become affectionate and even enjoy cuddles, although their playfulness usually outweighs their interest in lounging.That said, ferrets are more mischievous than many other pets. They’re curious, fast, and full of energy, so a calm lap pet they are not. Prospective owners should be prepared for daily, supervised playtime outside the cage, ideally several hours a day.How Much Space and Stimulation Do Ferrets Need?Ferrets need both room to roam and things to do. A multi-level cage with soft bedding, hammocks, and tunnels is a great base - but it's only part of the picture. Your ferret will need a ferret-proofed area to explore daily. That means blocking off small spaces, securing cabinets and vents, and keeping tempting items (like rubber bands, cords, or houseplants) well out of reach.

The Best Hacks for Getting a Sick Dog to Eat

How to Plant a Cat-Safe Flower Garden

Creating a vibrant flower garden doesn’t mean compromising your cat’s safety. Many popular blooms are toxic to cats, but with a little planning, you can cultivate a beautiful, colorful space that’s also non-toxic and feline-friendly. Whether your cat enjoys basking in the sun or nibbling on greenery, here’s how to design a gorgeous garden that both you and your pet can enjoy worry-free.

Can My Dog Get Jealous?

You’re giving attention to a new puppy, petting the neighbor’s dog, or maybe even cuddling a baby - and suddenly, your own dog pushes in, whines, or wedges themselves between you and the “intruder.” It definitely feels like jealousy.But is it? Can dogs actually get jealous? The short answer: Yes - sort of.While dogs don’t experience jealousy in quite the same way humans do, they can show possessive, competitive, or attention-seeking behaviors that look a lot like it. Let’s break it down.What Jealousy Looks Like in DogsJealousy in dogs often shows up in subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) ways. You might notice your dog:Pushing between you and another person or petWhining or barking when you give someone else attentionPawing at you or demanding cuddles Guarding toys, food, or even peopleActing out with sudden behaviors like peeing indoors or ignoring commandsThese aren’t just “bad manners” - they’re signals that your dog is feeling insecure, left out, or uncertain about their place in the social circle.Why Dogs Act JealousAt the heart of it, jealousy-like behavior in dogs is often rooted in:Attention shifts - especially if they were once your one-and-onlyChanges in routine - a new baby, pet, partner, or roommateResource guarding - not just food, but people tooA need for reassurance - dogs are incredibly social animals who crave connectionThey’re not being dramatic - they’re responding to what feels like a threat to their bond with you.What the Science SaysResearch backs up what dog owners have long suspected. A 2014 study published in PLOS ONE found that dogs exhibited jealous behaviors - like pushing or interrupting - when their owners showed affection to what appeared to be another dog (in reality, a stuffed dog). The behaviors mirrored how young children react to divided attention.While dogs may not experience jealousy in the full, emotional complexity humans do, it’s clear they can feel possessive, left out, or protective of their relationships.How to Help a “Jealous” DogThe good news is, jealous behavior can be managed - and even prevented - with the right approach. Here’s how:1. Acknowledge Their Feelings (Without Reinforcing Them)It’s okay to comfort your dog, but try not to reward pushy behavior with attention every time. Instead, calmly redirect and reward calm, patient behavior.2. Give One-on-One TimeMake sure your dog still gets regular undivided attention - walks, play, snuggles - especially if there’s a new pet or baby in the house.

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.

Food Allergies vs. Sensitivities in Cats: What’s the Difference?

You know your cat better than anyone. You’ve memorized the way they nap in their favorite sunspot, the sound of their little meow asking for breakfast, and the gentle purr that starts when you scratch under their chin. But recently, something has been off. Maybe you’ve noticed they are scratching a lot, their usually glossy coat is starting to look dull, or they are struggling with a digestive issue that seems to come and go. Whatever the concern, your first instinct is to find out why. If you’re here, you likely suspect the recent changes in your cat might be related to their food. That’s a great start – but what next? It’s easy to get lost in the sea of information, especially when you start hearing terms like “food allergy” and “food sensitivity” tossed around with no real definition of what they actually mean. If your cat’s condition is food-related, understanding the difference between these two conditions is the most important step you can take toward a real solution. This post will break down the science behind food allergies and sensitivities, help you recognize the signs of trouble, and outline a plan of action for working with your vet to get your kitty feeling their best again. Food Allergy vs. Food SensitivityTo understand how to help your cat, you need to know what’s happening inside their body after they eat. While the symptoms can often look similar, a food allergy and a food sensitivity are two very different conditions. The key difference lies in the body’s reaction to the food. A food allergy is an immune system reaction.  This happens when your cat’s body mistakes a specific protein in a food as a dangerous invader. This mistaken identity triggers their immune system to launch a defensive attack, creating antibodies to fight off the perceived threat. The result is a chain reaction that releases inflammatory chemicals, like histamine, throughout the body. These chemicals are responsible for the symptoms we see, like intense itching, inflamed skin, ear infections, digestive problems, and other more severe complications. Allergies often develop after being exposed to an ingredient over a prolonged time. For example, a cat who has been eating the same chicken-based food for years might suddenly develop an allergy to the chicken protein. In contrast, a food sensitivity, or food intolerance, is strictly a digestive issue. The immune system is not involved. With a sensitivity, your cat’s digestive system simply struggles to break down and process a particular ingredient. This could be because they lack the specific enzyme necessary to break down the food or because the ingredient itself irritates their digestive tract. Either way, it leaves them feeling “off.” Luckily, because a sensitivity isn’t an immune reaction, the symptoms are generally less severe and are primarily confined to the digestive system. You’ll typically see vomiting, diarrhea, gas, or general discomfort in the abdomen. While a sensitivity isn’t going to affect the entire body like a food allergy can, it can still be very uncomfortable for your cat and significantly impact their quality of life. Food sensitivities can be immediate or can build up over time, gradually getting worse as they are exposed to the trigger. It’s always important to distinguish this from an allergy so you can take the right steps to give your cat much-needed relief. Red Flags to Watch Out For Noticing when something is “off” with your cat is one of the most critical parts of being a responsible pet parent. However, the symptoms of a food allergy or sensitivity can be sneaky and often overlap with other conditions. Knowing what to look for and how to distinguish between the two conditions can make a significant difference. Common Symptoms Shared by Both Many of the symptoms of food allergies and sensitivities are similar, which is why it can be so difficult to tell the two apart. The most frequent signs you may notice include: Skin Issues: This is one of the most common signs of trouble. You might see your cat scratching or licking excessively, which can lead to hair loss, red and inflamed skin, or small scabs, primarily around their head, neck, and ears. Digestive Distress: This includes vomiting, diarrhea, gas, or a general lack of appetite. While these can be caused by many things, when they are chronic and not easily explained, they may point to a food-related issue. Chronic Ear Infections: Recurring ear infections that don’t respond well to treatment or keep coming back are a classic sign of an underlying allergy. Recognizing Symptoms of a True Food AllergyWhile allergies can present with digestive issues, they often manifest with more widespread and intense symptoms due to the full-body immune response. Severity and Specific Location: The itching from a food allergy tends to be more severe and often localized to the face, ears, and neck. Constant scratching can cause damage to the skin, leading to secondary infections. Systemic Effects: In rare cases, a true allergic reaction can also lead to respiratory problems like sneezing or wheezing. You may also notice swelling, particularly around the face. Regardless of the cause, if your cat ever has difficulty breathing, it should be treated as an emergency requiring immediate veterinary attention. Symptoms More Indicative of a Food SensitivityA food sensitivity, or intolerance, may involve some minor skin irritation. However, the symptoms are much more focused on the digestive tract. Gastrointestinal Problems: With a sensitivity, diarrhea and vomiting are often the main concerns. The symptoms are the direct result of the body’s inability to properly digest the specific food or ingredient. These symptoms won’t typically be accompanied by the intense, widespread itching that is often seen with a food allergy. Less Widespread: Unlike an allergy, a sensitivity is generally confined to the digestive issues, meaning you are less likely to see any larger-scale skin reactions or other body-wide symptoms. Many of these signs can also be caused by other problems, such as hairballs, eating something they shouldn’t, or switching foods too quickly. They could also be a sign of intestinal parasites or health concerns, like pancreatitis, colitis, or a blockage caused by a foreign body. While you should avoid jumping to conclusions, the only way to know for sure what is causing your cat’s problems is to make an appointment with your veterinarian to get a proper diagnosis.

Research Finds Anxious Cats at Higher Risk for Bladder Inflammation

A recent study published in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior is shedding light on something many cat owners have suspected but couldn’t prove - anxious cats are significantly more likely to suffer from recurring bladder trouble.The research, carried out by Marianne Caudron, Pascale Laroche, Isabelle Bazin, and Marion Desmarchelier at the CHUV veterinary hospital in Montreal, Canada, took a close look at 33 cats diagnosed with idiopathic cystitis—a nasty inflammation of the bladder that causes painful, often bloody, peeing. Idiopathic means vets ruled out infections, stones, and tumors.Half the cats in the study had just one bout of cystitis, while the other half experienced multiple flare-ups. To find a pattern, owners filled out detailed surveys about their cats’ behavior and environment, including things like fear of strangers, aggression, litter-box habits, and indoor setup.Turns out, the most anxious cats were the most likely to get sick again. The study found that 94% of cats with recurring cystitis were notably fearful of strangers, compared to 59% among cats who only had one episode. Moreover, introverted and shy cats fared worse than their aggressive or risk-taking peers. Researchers discovered that cats who tend to hide or freeze around strangers were more susceptible to bladder flare-ups. While it might seem farfetched, stress can impact your cat’s urinary tract health.Stress activates the sympathetic nervous system (your cat’s stress response), leading to hormonal shifts that can weaken the bladder lining. This makes it easier for inflammation to take hold, even without any infection or stones. A similar thing happens to people with chronic interstitial cystitis.Interestingly, the pandemic gave researchers a kind of “stress lab.” With cats forced into disrupted routines, owners stuck at home 24/7, cases of idiopathic cystitis doubled.According to veterinary experts, preventing repeat cystitis in our feline friends involves addressing both behavior and environment.So, what can you do if your cat starts showing signs of cystitis, like peeing outside the litter box, straining to urinate, or going more frequently in tiny amounts? Many cat owners swear by pheromone diffusers like Feliway. While the science is still a bit mixed, it’s a low-effort option worth trying, especially if your cat is easily rattled. You might also look into calming supplements or special stress-reducing diets. These often include natural ingredients like tryptophan, alpha-casozepine, L-theanine, and omega-3s, all of which can help calm your cat.Next up: hydration and diet. Cats naturally don’t drink a lot of water, so switching to wet food or just adding a splash of water to their meals can help flush out their bladder and keep things moving. If your vet recommends it, a prescription urinary diet can also make a big difference. Some of these are specially formulated to reduce stress while supporting bladder health, a win-win for anxious kitties.Don’t forget about the environment. Cats thrive on routine, so try to keep changes to a minimum. Stick to regular feeding times and avoid introducing too many new people, pets, or major changes all at once. Make sure your cat has easy access to clean litter boxes, ideally one per cat, plus an extra. Quiet spots to retreat to, cozy hiding nooks, window perches, and interactive toys or puzzle feeders can all help your cat feel secure and mentally stimulated.And if your cat seems especially anxious or the bladder issues keep coming back, it might be time to consult a professional. A veterinary behaviorist can work with you to understand your cat’s triggers and put together a personalized plan to reduce stress and build their confidence over time.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

What Temperature Does My Gecko Need?

Keeping your gecko healthy starts with one of the most important factors in reptile care: temperature. Since geckos are cold-blooded and rely on external heat to regulate their body functions, the wrong temperatures can quickly lead to serious problems. Too cold, and your gecko may become sluggish, stop eating, and face health issues. Too hot, and they can overheat or dehydrate.Here’s a breakdown of what different types of pet geckos need when it comes to temperature.Leopard Gecko Temperature NeedsLeopard Geckos are one of the most popular pet geckos. Native to the dry, rocky regions of Afghanistan and Pakistan, they’re built for warm days and cooler nights.Basking spot: 88–92 °F (31–33 °C)Warm side ambient: ~84 °F (29 °C)Cool side: 75–80 °F (24–27 °C)Nighttime drop: 68–72 °F (20–22 °C)These geckos absorb heat through their bellies, so an under-tank heat mat with a thermostat is usually better than an overhead light. It simulates their natural behavior and avoids stressing them out with too much bright light.

Cats Recognize Their Owner's Scent, Study Suggests

Here’s something every cat lover probably suspected but never had the science to prove—until now. Your cat knows exactly what you smell like.A new study out of Tokyo University of Agriculture has found that domestic cats can tell the difference between the scent of their beloved human and that of a total stranger. And how do they show it? By giving the unknown smell the extra sniff test.Researchers conducted a pretty straightforward experiment. They rounded up 30 feline participants and presented them with three tubes. One held a cotton swab rubbed with their owner's scent (gathered from under the armpit, behind the ear, and between the toes), another had the smell of a stranger of the same sex, and the third was a clean, scentless control.So what did the cats do? They barely showed any interest in the tube that smelled like their human. But the unfamiliar scent? That one got the full sniff-and-investigate treatment.The researchers say this shows cats can distinguish between familiar and unfamiliar people based on scent. But it doesn’t necessarily mean they can pick you out of a lineup based on smell alone. In other words, they’re not quite at police-sniffer-dog levels yet.Lead author Hidehiko Uchiyama explained it like this: “The odour stimuli used in this study were only those of known and unknown persons. We still need more behavioral experiments with multiple known-person scents to figure out if cats can really identify a specific individual.”Translation: It’s one thing for your cat to say, “Hey, this is familiar,” and another for them to say, “Ah, yes, this is definitely Steve from Apartment 4B who feeds me chicken treats.”This isn’t the first time science has looked at the mysterious ways cats recognize us. Earlier research has shown that cats can distinguish human voices, read our facial expressions, and even pick up on emotional cues through our body language and smell.The Tokyo team also noticed something else kind of interesting: after giving those unfamiliar swabs a thorough whiff, many cats rubbed their faces on the tubes. Cat owners will recognize this move—it’s scent-marking. So the sniffing might be part of a bigger process of cats getting familiar with new things in their environment.But not everyone’s ready to crown cats as scent detectives just yet. Serenella d’Ingeo, a researcher from the University of Bari who studies animal behavior (but wasn’t involved in this study), had a few notes of caution. She pointed out that we still don’t know how cats are feeling when they’re sniffing these tubes. Are they curious? Cautious? Grossed out? Hard to say.Plus, because the samples were presented by the cats’ own humans, who were standing right there smelling like themselves, there’s a chance the cats were even more interested in the new smells just because of the context. “Of course,” d’Ingeo said, “if owners present other odours that are different from their personal one, in a way they engage the cat more.”Still, the researchers concluded that yes, cats do use their noses to tell us apart from others. So next time, your feline roommate gives you a sniff and a head bump, take it as a compliment. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

The Top 7 Mistakes New Pet Owners Make (And How to Avoid Them)

Bringing a new pet into your home is exciting, rewarding, but it can also feel pretty overwhelming. Whether you’ve adopted a playful puppy, a curious kitten, or something more exotic, it’s easy to make a few missteps along the way. Here are the top 7 mistakes new pet owners make and how you can avoid them.

Do Dogs Grow Out of Resource Guarding?

You’re reaching for your dog’s chew toy, and suddenly they freeze, growl, or even snap. Or maybe they hover over their food bowl like it’s buried treasure. If this sounds familiar, you’re likely dealing with resource guarding - and you’re not alone.

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.

How Can Food Puzzles Boost Your Cat's Overall Well-being?

Cats are hardwired hunters, problem-solvers, and explorers. While we diligently fill their bowls with the best foods and most nutritious meals, we might be overlooking a crucial aspect of their well-being: those natural instincts. But what if I told you there’s a simple, effective, and enjoyable way to transform mealtime into an enriching activity? This is where food puzzles and interactive treat toys come in.These products are more than just toys; they’re incredible tools for boosting your cat’s physical health, sharpening their minds, and preventing many common behavioral issues. In this post, I’m going to dive deep into why food puzzles are so beneficial for your cat’s overall health and happiness, share the wide range of options available (including our go-to favorites with my 3 cats), and show you exactly how you can incorporate them into your cat’s routine, regardless of your budget.Why Traditional Food Bowls Fall ShortIt’s easy to forget that, despite our cats making themselves so comfortable and cozy in our home, they are still wired with the instincts of their wild ancestors. In the wild, a cat’s day revolves around the hunt. They spend much of their time stalking prey, planning their approach, pouncing, and ultimately, problem-solving to catch their next meal. This entire process, from the mental challenge of finding food to the physical exercise of catching it, is incredibly stimulating. It’s about far more than just filling their stomachs.However, when we feed our cats in a traditional bowl, we inadvertently strip away this fundamental aspect of their natural behavior. The food is readily available, requiring no effort, thought, or physical activity. While this is convenient for us, it can lead to many issues for our cats. Without the challenge of the hunt, many cats will become bored, leading to an excess of pent-up energy that can manifest in destructive behaviors, excessive vocalization, or even aggression.In addition to the loss of mental enrichment, feeding your cat from a traditional bowl can lead to overeating, digestive issues, and ultimately, weight gain. Food puzzles and interactive feeding toys allow you to reintroduce the challenge and engagement that traditional bowls lack. This means we are now fulfilling their need to “work” for their food.The Physical Health Benefits of Food Puzzles for Your Cat Beyond just making mealtime more engaging, food puzzles offer many benefits that can actually impact your cat’s physical health and well-being. This is particularly true when discussing weight management and how to optimize their digestion. Here are a few benefits you can enjoy by incorporating puzzles into your cat’s daily routine: Weight Management One of the most significant advantages of using food puzzles is their contribution to helping your cat maintain a healthy weight. Many indoor cats struggle with their weight due to a sedentary lifestyle and easy access to food. When their food is served in a traditional bowl, it is readily available with no work (hunting) required, and they can often “power eat,” gobbling up the entire portion in just a few minutes. This can lead to overconsumption because their brain doesn’t register that they are full until well after they’ve finished eating, causing them to consume more calories than they need. When they are eating from a food puzzle, it forces them to eat at a slower pace. Your cat must work to get to each morsel, stretching out their mealtime and allowing their brain to catch up with their physical satiety. Additionally, interacting with the puzzle, batting it around, pushing levers, or navigating mazes helps to encourage physical activity. Even small movements through the day add up, burning calories and helping to prevent obesity, a growing problem in the US that is a precursor to serious health issues like diabetes, joint problems, and heart disease. By making them work for their food, you're helping your cat stay active and maintain a healthier body weight.Improved Digestion and Minor Dental BenefitsWeight management isn’t the only physical benefit. Food puzzles can also significantly aid in improving your cat’s digestion. Cats who eat too quickly from a bowl are prone to digestive problems, like regurgitation or vomiting. This happens because they swallow too much air along with their food, or their digestive system can’t handle the sudden high-level intake of food. By slowing your cat’s eating pace, the food puzzles help to reduce the amount of air ingested and allow the stomach to process food more gradually without becoming overwhelmed. Another often overlooked benefit is that a slower eating speed promotes more thorough chewing. Have you ever watched a cat gulp down their food? It’s surprising that they don’t choke on the pieces of kibble they are swallowing without blinking an eye! Not only does slowing them down and encouraging them to chew their food more help to prevent choking, but it can also lead to better nutrient absorption from their food.While your cat’s new food puzzle isn’t going to clean their teeth as effectively as a dedicated dental cleaning routine (like brushing their teeth), some food puzzle designs, particularly those with textured surfaces or nooks and crannies, may offer a minor benefit as part of your greater dental care plan. As your cat licks and bites at the puzzle to access their food, it can lead to gentle scraping of the teeth, helping to scrape away plaque. While this shouldn’t be relied on as a dental cleaning solution, it is an added bonus. Mental Health & Behavioral BenefitsOf course, as I mentioned already, the impact of introducing food puzzles to your cat extends far beyond just physical health. They are powerful tools for boosting your cat’s mental well-being and addressing many common behavioral challenges by getting to the root of the problem. After all, cats are intelligent creators who thrive on mental engagement! Preventing BoredomWithout much-needed mental stimulation, boredom can quickly set in, leading to unwanted and undesirable behaviors. Food puzzles are a great way to provide your cat with mental enrichment by challenging them to tap into their natural problem-solving skill, keeping their brains active and engaged. It transforms passive eating into an active mental exercise, requiring them to think and strategize to get that coveted reward – their meal. By providing your cat with mental enrichment, you can avoid the many problems that often arise from boredom. This includes destructive behaviors like excessive scratching of furniture, inappropriate urination, or persistent vocalization. It’s a great way to provide a constructive outlet for their natural drives, channeling their energy into a positive activity (and not into tearing up your couch).

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