Simple Fire Safety Tips That Could Save Your Pet’s Life

Is a Degu a Good Pet for Children?

Furry, cuddly, fun... and you don't have to walk them. What could be easier?

Is Your Cat Hiding Their Pain? 10 Subtle Signs to Watch For

As cat parents, we want the best for our furry best friends. But, ensuring they are always feeling their best can be challenging. Cats, by nature, are masters of disguise, skilled at hiding any sign that they may not be well as a survival tactic. In the wild, showing weakness would make them vulnerable. In our homes, hiding their pain can make it challenging to recognize when something’s wrong. oThat’s why understanding the subtle signs of feline discomfort is so vital. Recognizing your cat is in pain allows you to seek help from your veterinarian, identifying the problem and giving them much-needed relief.This post will explore 10 key signs that your cat might be hiding from pain, from changes in grooming and eating habits to shifts in behavior and sleeping patterns, empowering you to better understand and care for your best friend.Sign 1: Changes in Grooming HabitsCats are known for being incredibly clean animals, spending a large portion of their day cleaning and maintaining their coats. If you notice your cat’s grooming habits have changed, it could be a telltale sign they are in pain.They may suddenly neglect their grooming because the pain prevents them from bending or moving in the ways necessary to keep up with it, resulting in matted fur or an unkempt appearance. For example, a cat suffering from arthritis might have a difficult time reaching their back or hips, leading to matted fur in that area.On the other hand, you may notice that your cat is over-grooming, mainly focused on a specific spot, like excessive licking, rubbing, or pawing at the location of their pain. This can result in hot spots, bald spots, or skin irritation. For example, if your cat has injured their paw, you may notice they are specifically licking that paw to the point of creating further skin problems. Sign 2: Changes in Eating or Drinking HabitsAnother regular aspect of your cat’s life that could be disrupted by pain is your cat’s eating habits. You may even see your cat approach their food bowl, sniff it, and turn away without eating. Loss of appetite is a common sign of trouble, often caused by dental pain, nausea, or general discomfort. A cat with a cracked or broken tooth may avoid chewing, while aches or pains in their body when trying to bend down to reach the food dish can discourage them from eating.It’s equally important to monitor your cat’s drinking habits. Both increased and decreased thirst could signal distress. A cat who suddenly starts drinking more water may be experiencing kidney problems or diabetes, while decreased thirst often accompanies nausea or other internal issues.Sign 3: Changes in Litter Box BehaviorHave you noticed your once litter-trained cat is suddenly having unwanted “accidents” around the house? A cat experiencing pain and discomfort may have difficulty entering or exiting the litter box, especially if it has high sides. Arthritis can make it painful for your cat to squat or position themselves properly to go to the bathroom. In some cases, this can lead to your cat associating the litter box with pain, especially if they experience discomfort while using it. This may discourage them from using the litter box in the future.Another warning sign could be changes in how often they go to the bathroom. For example, frequent, small amounts of urine or straining to pee could indicate a urinary tract infection. At the same time, difficulty defecating could mean your cat is experiencing constipation or other abdominal pain.Recognizing these changes and patterns clearly indicates that something is “off.”Sign 4: Reduced Activity or MobilityA cat may adjust or reduce movement or activity due to feelings of pain or discomfort. For example, a cat in pain might avoid activities they once enjoyed, like jumping onto your couch or bed, climbing their scratch post, or playing with their favorite toys.This reluctance could stem from several sources, including arthritis, joint pain, or muscle injuries. These conditions could make even the simplest movements more painful, leading your cat to conserve energy, avoid too much activity, and show a general disinterest in their usual routine.You may also notice your cat is starting to sleep more than usual, as rest becomes their primary way of coping with the discomfort they are experiencing. Any sudden or gradual decrease in your cat’s normal activities should be considered a potential red flag.Sign 5: Changes in Posture or MovementPain can significantly impact a cat’s posture and how they walk, also known as their gait. You may notice your cat hunching their back, limping, or moving with an unusual stiffness. These changes in how they hold themselves or move can be caused by a variety of painful conditions, such as arthritis, neurological problems, or recent injuries.For example, a cat with arthritis may hunch or stand differently to relieve pressure on their sore joints, while a cat with a paw injury might shift their weight off the affected paw to avoid causing further pain, resulting in a limp.Sign 6: Increased Vocalization Whether your cat is naturally chatty or generally a quieter housemate, any changes in their vocal patterns could be an attempt to communicate with you. While cats are known for their meows and purrs, pain could lead to an increase or decrease in vocalization. A cat experiencing pain and discomfort may meow, hiss, or growl, especially when touched or moved. Conversely, they could become unusually quiet, especially if vocalizing itself is painful. A sudden increase in yowling, particularly at night, or a sharp, pained cry when touched are more likely signals that something’s wrong than a typical meow for food or attention. Learning to distinguish between normal cat vocalizations and those associated with pain is key!

Is Your Cat a Picky Eater? Things to Consider About Their Food

It’s no secret that cats can be picky eaters, and pet food companies have responded by making a variety of foods in a range of textures and flavors to suit every finicky feline’s preferences. If your kitty isn’t eating, here are some of the things to consider about their food to see if you can make some changes that will keep them happy.  

Hamsters vs Guinea Pigs: Which Pet Is Right for You?

Hamsters and guinea pigs are two of the most popular small pets, especially for young children. While they both may be small and cute, they have notably different personalities, needs, and care requirements. Understanding their differences will help you decide which furry companion suits you best.

5 Toys Your Cat Will Love

Cats are curious, energetic creatures that need both mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy. If you're looking to spoil your feline friend or just want to keep them entertained while you're busy, here are five highly-rated toys that cats (and their humans) rave about.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you. 

Neutering Kittens Early Doesn't Lead to Heavier Cats, Study Finds

Longer life expectancy, reduced aggressiveness, zero spaying at home, and prevention of diseases are just some of the benefits of spaying or neutering your cat. Nevertheless, many owners decide to postpone sterilizing their kittens because spayed/neutered cats tend to eat more and gain weight easily. Obesity is commonly listed as the main disadvantage of neutering or spaying cats. The good news is that a new study has found no greater risk of weight problems in adulthood in kittens neutered at four months old compared to kittens neutered at six months old. The study, published in Vet Records, analyzed over 2,000 clinical records relating to 584 pet cats. Data showed no difference in body condition score (BCS) and bodyweight of kittens neutered at four months old or under, and those neutered at five or six months old, as they reached adulthood and senior years. For this study, the researchers used data from the Bristol Cats study at the University of Bristol. This longitudinal study follows kittens registered at 16 weeks old throughout their lifespan. Researchers also discovered that male cats usually weigh more and have a higher body condition score than female cats at any given time. Female cats showed lower body weight and body condition scores in summer and autumn, while male cats maintained a more consistent body weight and body condition score throughout all seasons. This study aimed to investigate the health outcomes of cats neutered before reaching puberty. Since neutering is a known risk factor for obesity in adult cats, some veterinary professionals are concerned that neutering kittens at younger ages may increase their chance of becoming obese in adulthood. “This new study adds to a growing body of evidence that neutering cats at four months old does not compromise their welfare, while it also helps charities and vet practices alike to deal with the problem of feline over-population,” said Dr. Rae Foreman-Worsley, a feline welfare associate researcher for Cat Protection.“By neutering cats from four months old, the veterinary profession can help to significantly reduce the number of unplanned litters and potentially homeless cats. At a time when financial constraints and issues with capacity are facing both owners and vets, a move to neutering cats at four months old may be an effective way to manage cat populations.”Dr. Emily Blackwell, Senior Lecturer in Animal Behavior and Welfare, Director of Companion Animal Population Health, and Principal Investigator of the Bristol Cats study at Bristol Veterinary School, said, ”The Bristol Cat study collects information about the health, welfare, and behavior of cats across the UK. Data from Bristol Cats used in this research provides further evidence that neutering kittens at four months of age does not put them at greater risk of weight problems in adulthood than those neutered at six months.” “Neutering kittens at four months can be effective in preventing unwanted litters, and we are pleased to have helped to provide scientific evidence to inform neutering decisions,” Dr. Blackwell added. In light of these findings, researchers are now calling for more long-term studies to investigate the effects of pre-puberty neutering on adult cats’ weight. Neutering causes metabolic and hormonal changes in cats, leading to decreased energy expenditure and increased appetite. This can lead to weight gain and obesity if not properly managed. Veterinary professionals still consider neutering a risk factor for obesity in cats, but agree that more studies like this one are needed to better understand whether there is any link with neutering age. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How to Tell If Your Dog Has an Ear Infection

Ear infections are common in dogs and can cause significant discomfort if left untreated. Knowing the signs early can help prevent complications and ensure your pet gets the care it needs. Here’s everything you need to know about recognizing, treating, and preventing ear infections in dogs.Signs of an Ear Infection in DogsDogs with ear infections often display clear symptoms. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to act quickly:Frequent Scratching & Head Shaking: Excessive scratching at the ears or frequent head shaking can indicate irritation or pain.Redness & Swelling: Healthy dog ears should be light pink and free of inflammation. If the inner ear appears red, swollen, or warm to the touch, it may be infected.Foul Odor: A musty, yeasty, or foul smell from the ears is a strong indicator of an infection caused by bacteria or yeast overgrowth.Unusual Discharge: Thick, dark discharge (yellow, brown, or greenish) often signals an infection. Be mindful, however, that some dogs naturally produce more earwax than others.Pain & Sensitivity: If your dog whimpers, pulls away, or reacts negatively when you touch its ears, it could be experiencing discomfort from an infection.Hearing & Balance Issues: In severe cases, an untreated ear infection can affect a dog’s hearing and balance. Signs include disorientation, head tilting, or difficulty standing.Common Causes of Dog Ear InfectionsSeveral factors can contribute to ear infections in dogs:Bacteria & Yeast Overgrowth: Moist, warm environments inside a dog’s ears create the perfect conditions for bacteria and yeast to thrive, especially in floppy-eared breeds.Allergies: Dogs with food or environmental allergies are more prone to chronic ear infections due to inflammation.Ear Mites: These tiny parasites are a common cause of infections, particularly in puppies.Moisture & Poor Hygiene: Water trapped in the ears after swimming or bathing can promote bacterial growth. Regular cleaning is essential.Foreign Objects & Debris: Grass seeds, dirt, and other debris can get stuck in a dog’s ear canal, leading to irritation and infection.Preventing Ear Infections in DogsPrevention is key to keeping your dog’s ears healthy. Here are some simple steps you can take:

Pyrenees Becomes Super-Hero After Finding Toddler Missing in Desert

Portly Pyrenees ranch-hand find missing toddler while doing the rounds... and brings him home.

Do Fish Recognize Their Owners?

When we think of pets that recognize their owners, dogs wagging their tails or cats rubbing against our legs usually come to mind. But what about fish? Can a creature with no facial expressions or vocal communication really recognize its human caretaker?Surprisingly, the answer is yes. Many fish owners believe their aquatic pets do recognize them - and recent science is starting to back that up. Fish are more intelligent and observant than they’re often given credit for.It All Starts with VisionFish rely heavily on their vision to survive. In the wild, they use their eyes to locate food, spot predators, and navigate complex environments. In captivity, this sharp vision allows them to recognize patterns and movement outside the tank.Some species are especially gifted in this area. For example, studies have shown that cichlids and archerfish can recognize human faces. In one experiment, archerfish were trained to spit water at images of specific faces on a screen. Even when shown similar-looking faces, they were able to correctly pick out the familiar one most of the time. This suggests that fish can tell people apart - and remember those they see regularly.Routine and RecognitionFish are also capable of learning routines and making associations. If you feed your fish at the same time every day, or tap the tank before feeding, they’ll likely start associating your presence or certain sounds with food. Over time, your fish may begin to swim excitedly to the surface when you approach. If you’re their sole caregiver, they may recognize your movements, your voice, or even your silhouette.

Things to Consider Before Getting a Guinea Pig

There’s so much to like about guinea pigs. They’re super cute, they make a range of adorable sounds, and they’re small enough to fit in your hands. But even though you might be tempted to bring one home, there’s a lot to consider before you do.

Why Do Cats Love Cardboard Boxes?

If you've ever brought home a shiny new toy for your cat only to find them more fascinated with the box it came in, you're not alone. Cats and cardboard boxes go together like peanut butter and jelly, but why? What is it about these humble containers that make them irresistible to our feline companions? Let’s dig into the science and behavior behind this quirky obsession.

Why Your Cat Is Suddenly Hissing

If your cat has suddenly started hissing, you’re probably wondering what’s going on. One moment they’re curled up in your lap, the next they seem angry. While it might feel personal, hissing isn’t actually as much about anger as it is about communication. It’s often your cat’s way of telling you something is off.

How Do Calming Pillows, Beds, and Blankets Keep Dogs Stress Free?

Which State Leads the U.S. in Pet Adoptions?

Have you ever wondered how adoption rates differ between states in the United States? Maybe you’re curious about which states have the highest and lowest adoption rates? These are valid questions, especially since so many shelters are at capacity and desperate to find homes for all of their homeless pets.

Should I Be Worried About My Dog Eating Dirt?

Have you ever been out enjoying a peaceful walk or watching your pup play in the backyard, only to witness them suddenly nose-dive into the soil and… start eating it? That immediate feeling of disgust (who eats dirt, eww) is usually followed by a wave of concern. Ultimately, you’re left wondering why your dog would engage in such a seemingly unappetizing habit.You’re not alone! It’s a question that has likely crossed the minds of countless dedicated dog parents. Why? Because this “dirty” habit (see what I did there) is more common than you think!In this post, I will shed light on why dogs eat dirt, the potential risks associated with this habit, help you understand when it’s an unpleasant quirk versus a cause for concern, and most importantly, offer some tips and tricks to help keep your pup safe. Because when it comes to our dogs, peace of mind is priceless!Understanding Your Dog’s Motivation for Eating DirtWhen we see our dogs consuming dirt, it’s natural to immediately wonder why. This seemingly strange behavior, eating non-food items, actually has a scientific name: pica. While occasional dirt-licking might be harmless, chronic pica, where a dog regularly or obsessively eats dirt, can be a sign of underlying physical or behavioral issues that must be addressed. It’s not just about a dirty mouth; it could be a red flag that there’s something bigger at play.Nutritional DeficienciesFor a long time, the most common explanation for dogs eating dirt was a perceived nutritional deficiency. More specifically, many people believed it was a lack of essential minerals like iron. The idea was that dogs instinctively seek out what their bodies are missing. Therefore, if they are missing iron, they will look to eat something that will supply the missing mineral.While this can be a factor, it’s generally less common for dogs fed a high-quality, complete, and balanced commercial dog food. These foods are meticulously formulated to provide all the necessary vitamins, minerals, and nutrients a dog needs. So, while it’s a possibility, it’s often not the primary culprit.Behavior Roots of Dirt EatingMore often than not, the reasons behind eating dirt are behavioral. Just like humans, dogs can exhibit a range of behaviors that may seem “off” or out of character due to their emotional and mental states.Boredom and lack of stimulation: Dogs are highly intelligent creatures who need physical and mental enrichment. If your dog isn’t getting enough walks, playtime, or interactive toys, they may eat dirt to entertain themselves. It’s a novel texture, a different smell, and an activity to occupy their time.Anxiety and stress: Just like some people chew their nails when they are feeling nervous, some dogs develop coping mechanisms for stress and anxiety. Eating dirt can be a repetitive, self-soothing behavior for dogs experiencing separation anxiety, fear of loud noises, or other environmental stressors.Curiosity and exploration: This is especially true for young puppies. The world is a brand-new place, and puppies explore everything with their mouths. Dirt offers fascinating smells, textures, and tastes that they may be investigating out of pure curiosity, similar to how human toddlers put everything in their mouths.Attention-seeking behavior: Let’s be honest; seeing your dog eat dirt usually triggers a strong reaction from you. Perhaps you gasp loudly, quickly dash to stop them, or call out a firm “no!” If a dog learns that eating dirt gets them immediate attention, even if it’s negative attention, they might repeat the behavior just to get you to engage with them.Instinctual behavior: While highly domesticated, dogs still possess some primal instincts passed down from their wild ancestors. Wild dogs might ingest small amounts of dirt or soil to aid digestion, firm up loose stools, or perhaps even obtain trace minerals. However, this instinct is far less relevant for most modern house dogs and generally a thing of the past.Tummy TroublesSometimes eating dirt is a sign of underlying gastrointestinal problems. Just like dogs sometimes eat grass when they have an upset stomach or feel nauseous, they might also ingest dirt. They could be attempting to soothe an irritated digestive tract, induce vomiting to relieve discomfort, or simply looking for something to help them feel better. If your dog suddenly starts eating dirt and seems to be experiencing stomach issues, it’s a strong sign that their digestive system might be trying to tell you something.Tasty TemptationsOf course, there is always the possibility that something enticing is tempting them to dive in for a taste. Take a moment to consider the area from which your dog is snagging the dirt. Is there a reason they may believe the dirt could be delicious? For example, if you recently fertilized the garden, the scent of manure could be drawing your pup in.The Risks: When Dirt Eating Can Be DangerousWhile a casual lick of dirt might seem harmless, this habit could easily cross the line into much more concerning territory. Consistent or extensive dirt eating carries a long list of potential dangers for your pup.Gastrointestinal Blockages and ObstructionsOne of the most immediate and serious concerns when a dog eats dirt is the risk of a blockage or obstruction in their gastrointestinal tract. It’s not just the dirt itself; it’s often what’s mixed in with the dirt that leads to trouble. Small stones, pebbles, sticks, plastic pieces, or other debris can easily be ingested along with the soil. These non-digestible items can accumulate in the stomach or intestines, leading to a partial or complete blockage.This is a veterinary emergency that often requires surgical intervention. If not addressed, it can quickly turn life-threatening. Watch out for symptoms such as:Persistent vomitingLethargy and weaknessLoss of appetiteAbdominal pain or tendernessStraining to defecate or inability to pass waste

How to Help a Stray Cat

Coming across a stray cat can be a confusing experience. Sometimes it’s obvious that it’s a stray, other times, you might be wondering if it’s just lost or exploring.Here are some tips on how to know whether or not the cat you’ve found is a stray and what you can do to help it. 

Are GPS Pet Trackers and Fitness Trackers the Same Thing?

You’ve microchipped your dog and have a securely fenced yard, but there’s still that tiny, nagging fear… What if they get spooked by a sudden noise and slip out the front door? What if your dog slips away when travelling? Or maybe your concern isn’t about them getting lost at all, but about their health. Is your cat getting enough exercise? Is your puppy getting too much?For a long time, we relied on observation and tried to communicate as accurately as possible with our veterinarians. But today, technology has given modern pet parents like you incredible tools to help in this aspect of your dog’s care.In this guide, we’ll dive into the world of pet wearables, breaking down the difference between GPS trackers and fitness trackers, exploring how each of these products works, and highlighting their strengths. You’ll have all the information you need to help you decide which is the perfect tool for your pet’s needs.What Are Pet GPS Trackers?A pet GPS tracker is a small device, typically worn on your pet’s collar, that uses satellite technology to pinpoint their exact location in real-time. Think of it like a personal, portable GPS system just for your pet. This isn’t just a simple tag; it’s a sophisticated piece of technology designed to help pet parents answer one of the most urgent questions that may arise: “Where are they right now?” They were originally used for hunting dogs, but today they are growing in popularity for house pets.The way a GPS tracker works is quite clever. The small unit on your pet’s collar receives signals from multiple satellites orbiting the Earth. By communicating with these satellites, they are able to calculate your cat’s precise position at any given moment. That position data is then sent to a server, where it can be accessed.Most trackers rely on a cellular network, which is why they require a monthly subscription, making it essential to have a cell phone plan for the device. However, others use a more traditional GPS technology that doesn’t rely on cell networks, allowing them to work even where a cell connection isn’t available.Once the information has been received by the network, it is then relayed directly to an app on your smartphone or a handheld receiver, giving you a live map of your pet’s location. This process allows for a virtually unlimited range, so whether your pet is a few blocks away or miles from home, you can see their location.The true value of a pet GPS tracker lies in its key features, which are all centred on providing security and peace of mind. Depending on the product you purchase, this may include:Real-time Location Tracking: The primary and most critical feature. This allows you to see your pet’s location on a map at any moment, so you can track them down if they get lost.Geofencing: This powerful tool allows you to set up virtual safety zones, like your backyard or a local park. If your pet wanders outside of this predetermined area, you’ll receive an instant alert on your phone.Location History: Most apps keep a history of your pet’s movements, so you can see where they’ve been. This can be helpful in identifying common escape routes or understanding their roaming habits.Durability: These devices are built to withstand the elements, often being waterproof and rugged to handle even an adventurous pet’s lifestyle.A GPS tracker is an invaluable tool for certain situations. It’s perfect for the adventurous pet who loves to roam, such as those who enjoy camping and hiking. If they become disoriented or lost in an unfamiliar environment, this will help you bring them home. They are also helpful for known escape artists who are always looking for (and somehow finding) a way out.It’s important to remember that a GPS tracker is not the same as a microchip. A microchip is a form of permanent identification that can be scanned by a vet or animal shelter if your lost pet is found. It can’t actively track your pet’s location.Similarly, it’s also important to note that a GPS tracker is far more reliable and has a greater range than a Bluetooth tracker (like an Apple AirTag), which only works when your pet is within a few dozen feet of your phone or someone else’s.Some examples of highly recommended pet GPS trackers include:Tractive Smart GPS Tracker ( for cats and for dogs) Fi Series 3+ Smart Dog Tracker CollarWeenect GPS Collar ( for cats and for dogs) Halo Collar 3 Garmin T 5X (my personal go-to)Understanding Pet Fitness TrackersA pet fitness tracker is a small device, usually attached to a collar or harness, that monitors your pet’s activity, rest, and overall behavior. Think of it like a Fitbit for your pet, designed to provide insights into their health and wellness. These devices are less about knowing your pet’s location (although some due have GPS capabilities) and more about understanding their lifestyle.Unlike GPS trackers, which use satellites, fitness trackers rely on an internal sensor called an accelerometer. This sensor detects and measures movement. The device’s software then translates this movement into meaningful data points, such as steps taken, distance traveled, active minutes, and calories burned. This information is typically synced to your smartphone app via Bluetooth, meaning there is no need for a monthly cellular subscription.The true benefit of a fitness tracker lies in the health data it provides:Activity Monitoring: Tracks your pet’s daily steps, distance, and time spent being active versus resting. This helps you ensure they’re meeting their exercise needs.Behavioral Insights: Some advanced models can monitor scratching, shaking, or changes in sleep patterns. This data can be a subtle but important early indicator of discomfort or health issues that you might not otherwise notice.Goal Setting and Benchmarking: The app allows you to set daily activity goals based on your pet’s breed, age, and weight. You can also compare your pet’s activity to other pets of the same breed and age, giving you a better understanding of what a healthy activity level looks like.Health Reports: Over time, the data creates a comprehensive picture of your pet’s activity and rest trends, which you can share with your veterinarian during checkups.A fitness tracker is an excellent tool if your main concern is your pet’s health. It’s ideal for managing a pet’s weight, as it provides data to help you create and stick to a weight loss plan. It’s also invaluable for monitoring recovery after an injury or surgery, as it allows you to see gradual improvements in activity.For aging pets, a fitness tracker can help you track mobility and identify potential signs of conditions like arthritis. Ultimately, it’s for any pet parent who wants to be more proactive about their pet’s long-term well-being and ensure they are getting a balanced, healthy life.Some examples of helpful pet fitness trackers include: FitBark Activity Monitor Link GPS Dog Tracker + Activity Monitor PetPace AI Health Monitor Minitailz Health & GPS Tracker for Dogs

Cat Care For Seniors Made Easy

(photo credit: InesBazadar / shutterstock.com)Let’s talk seniors. Regardless of age, they all have different abilities. Some are still highly active while others may be less so. Cognition levels can also vary from one individual to another as can favorite pastimes. Bridge champion, master gardener, or avid swimmer…when talking about the ideal feline for an older adult, it’s not necessarily down to finding a low-maintenance, easygoing breed that will be content to sit on a lap and receive cuddles. Maybe it’s something a little more playful or interactive yet not as demanding in terms of time and maintenance.One of the easiest ways to suss up how appropriate a new feline will be for a senior is to check out the rescues and shelters. You will find a mix of mid-life and older animals with a personality and/or attitude already baked in. So, you know just how feisty – or not – said puss is going to be when she gets home.You will also find that most relinquished cats are of a mixed breed status. Mixed breeds have a broader gene pool and fewer heredity health issues -hence the reason for the number of “designer” dogs you now see. For cats, brachycephalic breeds such as Persians or Burmese can inherit respiratory issues while Siamese are prone to dental disease and Maine Coons to hip dysplasia. Of course, the cost to adopt a rescue is also considerably less expensive than purchasing a pure-bred feline which can often be a deciding factor for anyone on a fixed income.