Colorado's Uber Dog Hits Star Status

by Mary Simpson

Published: January 20th, 2025

Riding shotgun with his fave person, this rescue pooch greets passengers in style.

(photo credit: Kristie Zimmerman / shutterstock.com)

Committed to keeping his passengers happy and coming back for more, a Colorado Uber driver zeroed in on something the locals love. And in this mountainous state, rich with ski hills, hiking trails, and outdoorsy residents, what the people booking his Uber cab really love (no surprise), is dogs.

So, driver Kevin Ferman didn’t have to think twice before inviting his rescue hound mix named Bowie, to ride shotgun with him on his daily pick-ups and drop-offs. You see, the driver had adopted the pooch when he was just five months old and soon after, discovered the little guy had serious separation anxiety when left alone for any length of time. What to do? When you drive around town with a front seat sitting empty, the answer is pretty obvious.

Totally chill and donning a smart little bow tie for the occasion, Bowie now happily occupies the seat beside his favorite person. A perfect opportunity to socialize the once-anxious pooch around people, Ferman confirms that Bowie loves to greet those climbing into his backseat by leaning over and offering a paw to anyone who’ll take it. Of course, videos and pix of the affable co-pilot were taken and shared by hundreds of amused travellers. And the fact that Ferman provides treats to passengers so they can offer them up to Bowie has certainly helped keep this cooperative canine sweet on the idea of riding around for hours on end with new faces continually cropping up in the back seat.

But it was the fun clips like this Hallowe’en edition that showed just how well his passengers responded to the furry face peering back at them, that got him thinking…

Fast forward two years and all these positive passenger exchanges with Bowie convinced Ferman that it might be fun to record, post (with client approval), and maybe highlight just how loving and adaptable a rescue pooch can be. So, that’s just what he started to do back in 2024. Aptly titled Bowie’s Uber Vlog, it didn’t take long for views to climb into the tens of thousands, with the duo now having close to 38,000 YouTube followers and a further 140,000 tracking them on TikTok. After just over 50 posts, Ferman states their most popular TikTok video received over 8 million views.

With their route taking them near the campus of the University of Colorado Boulder, students have turned Bowie into a local celebrity. Hmmm…perhaps that clip on Good Morning America had a little more to do with securing his star status.

At any rate, Ferman, "It's such a simple thing, but it really does make people's day." I think it also makes a doggy’s day as well.

Mary Simpson

Sharing space with three seriously judgy Schnoodles and 2 felines who prefers to be left alone. #LivingMyBestLife

More by Mary Simpson

Why Is My Fish Lying at the Bottom of the Tank?

View Article

What Is Feline Panleukopenia?

Hearing that a cat has panleukopenia can sound intimidating - and for good reason. Feline panleukopenia (also known as feline distemper or FPV) is a highly contagious and potentially deadly viral disease that affects cats, especially kittens and unvaccinated adults. But with the right knowledge and preventive care, pet parents can better protect their cats from this dangerous illness.Here’s what you need to know about feline panleukopenia, how it spreads, and why vaccination is so important.The Basics: What Exactly Is Panleukopenia?Feline panleukopenia is caused by the feline parvovirus, which attacks rapidly dividing cells in a cat’s body, particularly those in the bone marrow, intestines, and developing fetus. The term "panleukopenia" itself means “a lack of all white blood cells,” referring to the virus’s impact on a cat’s immune system.Because it damages the gut lining and suppresses immunity, this virus often causes severe gastrointestinal symptoms, dehydration, and secondary infections. It spreads quickly and can be fatal, especially in kittens.How Does It Spread?FPV is incredibly contagious and can survive in the environment for months, even up to a year- on surfaces like bedding, food bowls, clothing, and shoes. Cats can catch it through direct contact with an infected animal, or indirectly through contaminated environments and objects.Even if your cat stays indoors, they’re not entirely risk-free. The virus can easily hitch a ride on your shoes or hands after contact with other animals, shelters, or outdoor spaces.What Are the Signs of Panleukopenia?Symptoms can come on quickly and may include:Sudden loss of appetiteVomiting and/or diarrhea (sometimes bloody)Lethargy or weaknessHigh feverDehydrationPainful or bloated abdomenRapid weight lossIn kittens, the disease can be especially aggressive. Because their immune systems aren’t fully developed, they can go from seemingly fine to critically ill in a matter of hours. Some cats may also show neurological signs if the infection occurs during pregnancy or early kittenhood.If you notice any of these symptoms, especially in a young or unvaccinated cat, contact your veterinarian immediately. Prompt care can make all the difference.Can It Be Treated?There’s no specific cure for feline panleukopenia, but supportive veterinary care can help a cat recover. Treatment often involves hospitalization, where the cat can receive IV fluids, medications to control vomiting, and antibiotics to prevent secondary infections. The earlier treatment begins, the better the chance of survival - though outcomes vary depending on age and immune status.Unfortunately, many kittens who contract panleukopenia do not survive, especially if they are not treated quickly. That’s why prevention is key.How Do You Prevent Panleukopenia?Vaccination is the most effective way to protect your cat. The FPV vaccine is considered a core vaccine - recommended for all cats regardless of whether they live indoors or out. It’s typically given to kittens starting at 6–8 weeks of age, followed by booster shots every few weeks until they’re around 16 weeks old. Adult cats should receive booster shots as recommended by your veterinarian.Keeping your cat indoors, practicing good hygiene, and avoiding contact with infected animals or contaminated objects can also help reduce the risk.The Bottom LineFeline panleukopenia is a serious and often life-threatening disease, but it’s also highly preventable. With routine vaccination and prompt veterinary care, you can dramatically reduce your cat’s risk of infection - and help keep your home safe for your feline companion.If you’re bringing home a kitten or adopting a cat with an unknown medical history, talk to your vet about getting them vaccinated as soon as possible. It’s one of the simplest and most important steps you can take to protect their health.

Watch Out for These Common Summer Dangers for Dogs

The sun is shining and temperatures are rising, filling many of us with excitement for the arrival of summer. There’s nothing quite like seeing the pure delight on their faces as we explore our local parks and hiking trails together, but the season also brings a unique set of potential dangers for our pups.While we’re reaching for the sunscreen and planning our next adventure, we must remember that our pups face dangers we may not always think about. Keeping our pups safe starts with being informed about the risks and the steps we can take to prevent trouble.Let’s look at some of the most common summer dangers for dogs, from the obvious heat-related issues to some of the sneakier threats lurking in our backyards and beyond…HeatstrokeWe all know the joys of basking in the summer sun, but the rising temperatures can also pose a significant threat to our pups, with heatstroke being the biggest concern. Unlike humans, who sweat effectively to cool down, dogs primarily rely on panting. This process becomes far less efficient in high humidity and extreme heat, meaning their body temperature can quickly skyrocket.One of the most common culprits we sadly see far too often is the act of leaving a dog in a parked car – even for a short period, with the windows slightly open, the interior can heat up to lethal levels in minutes. Overexertion during walks or playtime in the hottest part of the day, and a lack of access to shade and fresh water when outdoors, also significantly increase this risk.Recognizing the signs of heatstroke is crucial. This includes:Excessive panting and droolingBright red or pale gumsIncreased heart rateLethargy and weaknessA stumbling gaitVomitingActing disorientedSeizures or collapse (in severe cases)If you suspect your dog is suffering from heatstroke, you must act quickly. Move them to a cool, shaded environment. Apply cool (not ice-cold) water to their body, especially the groin, belly, and neck areas. Offer small amounts of water if they are conscious. Most importantly, contact your veterinarian ASAP - heatstroke is a medical emergency.Some dogs are more susceptible to heatstroke, including brachycephalic breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs, senior dogs, and those with pre-existing health conditions. Extra vigilance is needed for them.Never, under any circumstances, leave your dog unattended in a parked vehicle during warm weather. Plan your walks and exercise sessions for the cooler early morning or late evening hours. When your dog is outdoors, ensure they have access to plenty of shade and a constant supply of fresh, cool water. Consider using cooling vests or mats as an added layer of protection on the hottest days.Sunburn and Paw Pad BurnsJust like us, dogs with light-colored fur or thin coats can suffer from sunburn. This is especially true on sensitive areas like their nose, ears, and belly. Using a pet-safe sunscreen on these vulnerable spots can help prevent discomfort and long-term skin damage.Another often-overlooked hazard is the scorching heat of surfaces like sand, asphalt, and sidewalks. These can become incredibly hot under the summer sun and easily burn your dog’s paw pads, leading to pain and potential infection.A simple way to check if the ground is too hot for your pup is the “seven-second rule.” Place the back of your hand on the surface and hold it there for seven seconds. If it’s too hot for you to comfortably hold it there, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.During the hottest part of the day, try walking your dog on grass or in shaded areas. If that’s not always possible, consider using protective dog boots to shield their paws from the heat.Dehydration Water is vital in helping your dog regulate their body temperature and stay healthy. Just like us, your dog’s water needs increase in warmer weather and with increased activity. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, a general guideline is that dogs should drink approximately one ounce of water per pound of body weight per day. There are also online calculators available to help you understand your dog’s needs – but keep in mind that this can vary depending on their size, activity level, and the ambient temperature. To help your dog stay hydrated, always ensure they have access to fresh, clean water at home. When you’re out and about, especially on walks or playtime, carry a portable water bowl and offer them water regularly. Contaminated Water Not all water sources are safe for our dogs. Summer can bring about hazards in bodies of water like lakes, ponds, and puddles that appear at the surface to be an inviting way to cool off. Blue-green algae, for example, can bloom in stagnant ponds and lakes during warm weather. Ingestion of this toxic algae can lead to serious health issues, ranging from vomiting and diarrhea to liver damage and neurological problems. Similarly, parasites like Giardia and Cryptosporidium can contaminate natural water sources, causing gastrointestinal problems for dogs who drink the affected water. It’s best to err on the side of caution and prevent your dog from drinking from random puddles or bodies of water. Always bring plenty of your own fresh water for your dog on outings. If they are being given regular water breaks, they will be less likely to try to sneak a drink along the way. Pool and Ocean Safety Swimming is a go-to favorite activity for many when the temperatures climb, but water safety is crucial. While some dogs are natural swimmers, many are not, and even strong swimmers can tire out quickly. Never leave your dog unsupervised near a pool, lake, or the ocean, regardless of how strong their swimming skills may be. If you have a pool or pond on your property, teach your dog how to enter and, more importantly, exit safely. Even if you have the area fenced off, there is always the risk that the barrier fails. A dog life vest can provide an invaluable layer of safety for dogs who are not strong swimmers or if you plan on boating. When at the beach, be mindful of saltwater ingestion. Too much saltwater can lead to dehydration, vomiting, and diarrhea. Always offer your dog plenty of fresh water while hanging out at the beach to discourage them from drinking the salt water during their play.

When Should I Seek the Help of a Cat Behaviorist?

Address Problems and Improve Your Cat’s Life with a Cat BehavioristIf you’re concerned about your cat’s behavior, please don’t hesitate to seek help. Early intervention can make a significant difference in your cat’s health and well-being. After all, many of these behaviors are rooted in your cat’s mental and emotional health due to stress, anxiety, fear, and other factors.Most cat behavior problems can be addressed and resolved with patience, consistency, and a little professional guidance. With the right support, your cat can overcome whatever challenges they face and thrive! Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

What is Hospice Care for Dogs and Cats?

The bond we share with our dogs and cats is unique, characterized by unconditional love, playful antics, and a special companionship. So, when the inevitable early signs of aging and declining health begin, it’s natural for our hearts to ache.Navigating this challenging time can feel overwhelming, filled with difficult decisions and intense emotions. However, within this period, there is an option that is often overlooked or undiscussed – a compassionate pathway to provide our pets with comfort, dignity, and peace in their final chapter: hospice and palliative care.This isn’t about giving up on your beloved pet; it’s about embracing a different kind of care and prioritizing their quality of life when a cure is no longer within reach.In this post, I’ll share what hospice care truly means for our dogs and cats, when it may be the most loving choice, and what you can expect as you navigate the emotional decisions during this part of their journey.Understanding Hospice and Palliative CareBoth hospice and palliative care are about more than just accepting the end; they are about actively ensuring the best possible quality of life for your pet during this chapter. The two have some similarities, but also some notable differences.Hospice CareHospice care shifts the focus away from treating the underlying illness when a cure is no longer possible. At this point, the central goal is to maximize your pet’s comfort and well-being so they can enjoy their remaining time. This involves minimizing pain and suffering, managing distressing symptoms, and providing emotional support to your pet and your family as you navigate this stage. This care and support can be provided primarily in a familiar environment, like your home, rather than a specific facility.Palliative CareIn contrast to hospice, palliative care can begin earlier during a serious illness, often while your pet is still receiving treatments, and a cure is still possible. The focus of palliative care is the effective management of symptoms to improve your pet’s comfort and overall quality of life at any stage of their illness.Palliative care aims to improve your pet’s well-being regardless of their prognosis. Think of it as providing ongoing supportive care throughout a challenging illness, helping to manage discomfort and improve their daily life. After all, treatment isn’t always a comfortable or easy process.Key Differences and OverlapThe main difference between hospice and palliative care lies in the timing relative to their treatment journey. Palliative care can start earlier, while hospice is specifically for the end-of-life stage when treatment is no longer a reasonable option. However, both approaches share a similar fundamental goal – prioritizing comfort, maximizing quality of life, and providing emotional support for the pet and their family as they navigate this chapter.When Might Hospice or Palliative Care Be the Right Choice?If your pet is currently dealing with medical challenges, it can be an emotional time. When it comes to deciding if hospice or palliative care might be the right path, there is no universal “right” moment. Instead, you will need to take some time to carefully (and honestly) assess your pet’s overall well-being and quality of life.With palliative care being an option that doesn’t require you to stop treatment, there is no reason not to prioritize their comfort throughout the process.Pay close attention to subtle shifts in their physical and mental behavior. Certain indicators can signal that it may be time to have a heartfelt conversation with your veterinarian about your supportive care options.Changes to Watch Out ForTo help you on this journey, here are a few specific changes you might notice in your pet that could suggest it’s time to consider hospice or palliative care:Changes in Eating and Drinking: Keep an eye out for a loss of appetite, increasing difficulty eating or drinking, or noticeable and unexplained weight loss.Changes in Mobility and Activity: You might notice your pet struggling to stand or walk, showing a reluctance to move, experiencing increased weakness, or becoming unsteady on their feet and stumbling.Changes in Behavior and Interaction: Look for signs that your pet may be withdrawing from their usual family life, showing a decreased interest in their favorite activities, hiding more often, experiencing significant changes in their sleep patterns, or showing a reduced desire to interact with you and your other household members.Uncontrolled Pain or Discomfort: Despite receiving pain medication, your pet may still show obvious signs of discomfort, such as whimpering, excessive panting, restlessness, or a reluctance to be touched in certain areas.Loss of Bladder or Bowel Control: If your pet is experiencing incontinence that is becoming increasingly difficult to manage and is negatively impacting their quality of life, this is an important consideration.Difficulty Breathing: Noticeable changes in their breathing, such as persistent coughing, labored breathing, or an increased effort required to breathe “normally,” can signal declining health.Lack of Response to Treatment: When ongoing medical interventions no longer effectively slow the progression of your pet’s illness and improve their quality of life, it may be time to consider a different approach focused on comfort.Noticing one or two of these signs doesn’t automatically mean it’s time for hospice or palliative care. The decision to take this step isn’t “black and white.” Instead, these signs of decreasing quality of life should lead to an open and honest conversation with your veterinarian. They can provide valuable insights into your pet’s prognosis and help you assess the situation with realistic expectations. This discussion will help you make the most loving and informed decision for your best friend.

A Pet Kangaroo Got Lost in Texas

There are always so many stories about missing dogs, cats, and even birds, but one thing you don’t hear about is missing kangaroos. Well, it turns out that a pet kangaroo did get lost, and his owners are desperate to find him.

From the LA Fires, New Legislation Expedites Pet Rescue in Disasters

Video of distraught pet owner Casey Colvin kicks new bill into full gear.

How to Make a DIY Cat Deterrent Spray

As a cat parent, we love our feline friends, but let’s be honest, sometimes their natural instincts can seriously clash with our home décor. The frustration of discovering claw marks on your favorite sofa, finding your beloved houseplants overturned and dug up, or worse, dealing with territorial marking in your house is an experience that many of us share.I understand the desire to find a humane and effective solution to protect our homes without harming our cats. After all, our cats are family, and we want to coexist peacefully. The goal is not to punish them but to guide their behavior in a positive direction.Cat deterrent sprays offer several advantages, discouraging our kitties from engaging in unwanted behaviors in specific areas. Creating a DIY cat deterrent spray may be the perfect option for those seeking a budget-friendly solution or who like to control the substances coming into their home.In this article, I’ll share how to make a safe and effective cat deterrent spray. Plus, I’ll discuss the other factors to consider when setting your cat up for success, including long-term behavior medication, positive reinforcement, and other cat-proofing options.Understanding Cat BehaviorBefore I go into the details about making and using a cat deterrent spray, let’s step back and start at the beginning. It’s essential to understand why cats engage in the behaviors we find problematic. Scratching, for example, is far more than just a destructive behavior. It’s a natural instinct that serves many important purposes, including: Claw Maintenance: Allowing them to shed old nail sheaths Territorial Marking: Leaving both a visual and scent cueEmotional Release: A way to express frustration or excitementSimilarly, marking (often through spraying urine or rubbing cheeks) is also a form of communication. Cats use scent to establish territory, signal their presence, and even share their emotions like stress or anxiety. Is your cat urinating outside their litter box? There are several possible reasons why your cat is doing their business in an unwanted location, including medical issues, stress, or problems with the litter box itself (location, type of litter, type of litter box, etc.). The first step to finding a solution is to make an appointment with your veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions before considering it a behavioral problem. Suppressing these behaviors with a deterrent spray isn’t a long-term solution. Instead, you will need to identify the root cause of the problem and address it directly. For example, if your cat is scratching your furniture, try offering several scratching posts in various materials and locations to redirect their instincts to a positive outlet. Enriching their environment with toys, climbing structures, and interactive play can alleviate boredom and reduce stress-related marking. If your cat is experiencing anxiety, I recommend consulting a cat behaviorist. These professionals are uniquely skilled at identifying triggers and can help you develop a tailored plan to create a more positive home environment for your best friend. Finally, it’s important to remember that cats experience scents far differently than we do. Their sense of smell is far more sensitive than ours, allowing them to detect and identify subtle differences and interpret information from a scent we can’t. This is why they use scent as a significant part of their communication. This sensitive sense of smell is also why scents like citrus or vinegar are so effective at discouraging your cat from going in or near areas that you’re trying to protect. Choosing the Right Ingredients Onto the reason you’re reading this – how to make your own DIY cat deterrent spray. Selecting the right ingredients is crucial for both effectiveness and your cat’s safety. Essential oils, concentrated plant extracts, are popular as they offer strong scents that work well to deter cats. However, not all essential oils are safe for use around cats. Most importantly, even those that are safe for use around your cat must be handled and used with safety in mind. Always dilute essential oils significantly and consult your veterinarian before using them on your cat. Some essential oils can be extremely harmful, even fatal, if ingested, inhaled, or even absorbed through their skin. Luckily, several essential oils are considered safe and effective in diluted forms for cat deterrents. Citrus oils like orange and lemon often serve as the active ingredient in deterrent sprays as cats generally dislike their strong scents. While calming for humans, lavender can also act as a strong deterrent, but it should be used with caution and in very dilute form. Finally, eucalyptus and peppermint can be used, but sparingly and always diluted, as their strong menthol scents can be overwhelming and potentially irritating. Some essential oils are absolutely toxic to cats and should be avoided entirely. Tea tree oil, pennyroyal, wintergreen, pine, and many others can cause severe health problems, including liver damage, respiratory distress, and even death. These oils should never be used on or near your cat. Beyond essential oils, other ingredients (depending on your recipe) include: White Distilled Vinegar: Diluted with water, this is a common choice due to its strong, acidic scent Citrus Peels: A natural by-product of consuming citrus fruits, can be steeped in water to create a safe and effective citrus-scented deterrent Water: Serves as the base for all these sprays, diluting the other ingredients and allowing for easy application A carrier oil, such as coconut or almond, is essential if you choose to use essential oils. Diluting essential oils in a carrier oil before adding them to water prevents skin irritation and ensures a more even scent distribution. Finally, when possible, opt for organic ingredients. This minimizes the pesticides and other potentially harmful chemicals your cat may be exposed to, helping to create a healthier environment for your best friend.

PrettyLitter: The Color-Changing Litter Cat Parents Swear By

Health monitoring + odor control = the ultimate cat parent win!If there’s one thing every cat parent knows, it’s that keeping up with the litter box can be a full-time job. But what if your cat’s litter could do more than just manage mess? What if it could actually help monitor your cat’s health?That’s exactly what PrettyLitter does—and why so many cat lovers are making the switch.

4 of the Best Dog Breeds for Apartments

If you live in an apartment and want to get a dog to call your own, there are certain breeds that are better suited to living in smaller spaces. To help you get started on your search for the perfect apartment dog, here’s a list of four breeds that might be the ideal choice.

2025 Pet Parasite Warning: Lyme & Heartworm Risk Up

As responsible pet parents, we need to stay informed about potential threats to the health and well-being of our best friends. One such threat is the ever-present threat of parasites like fleas and ticks, and the diseases they carry. The Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC), a leading authority on these pests, has just released its 2025 Pet Parasite Forecast, and it’s not looking good. The report highlights a growing risk for Lyme disease and heartworm. Based on a staggering 10 million diagnostic tests conducted annually, the CAPC has an impressive 94% accuracy rate in predicting the prevalence of these diseases. Their latest forecast indicates that Lyme disease and heartworm continue to spread across the United States. This isn’t just a static problem in a single area of the country; it’s an evolving one, driven by the shifting populations of ticks and mosquitoes – the culprits behind these nasty diseases. Specifically, the forecast points to a continued southward and westward spread of Lyme disease, a tick-borne illness that can cause serious joint pain, lameness, and even kidney problems in our pets. The upper Midwest and Northeast remain high-risk zones. Another tick-borne disease, anaplasmosis, is following a similar pattern of expansion. Meanwhile, ehrlichiosis, another tick-transmitted disease, is holding strong in the Southeast and creeping further north into the upper Midwest and New England. Meanwhile, the CAPC warns of an increasing spread of heartworm in the southeastern United States, particularly along the Atlantic coast and up the Mississippi River. Much of the middle of the country, stretching from Kansas to Maryland, is facing a heightened risk this year. They also highlight areas of growing concern in New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, North Dakota, and Northern California. While this news likely feels a little unsettling, it does for me, we must remember that knowledge is power. Understanding these risks is the first step in keeping our pets safe. Step two is prevention. The CAPC emphasizes that the risk isn't zero even in areas with a “low risk” designation. That’s why year-round parasite preventative measures are so crucial. This is even more important for pets like dogs and adventure cats who enjoy spending time outdoors where they are more likely to be exposed. Consistent use of veterinarian-recommended preventives for both ticks and heartworm is the best way to shield your pet from these diseases. Beyond protecting your pet, it’s important to remember that we must also consider our own risk factors. Areas with high rates of heartworm and tick-borne diseases in dogs and cats often indicate a greater risk for us humans as well, as we share the same environments. So, what can you do? The first step is to talk with your vet about the specific risks in your area and your pet’s lifestyle. With that information, you can work together to develop a tailored prevention plan. This might include year-round medication, regular testing, and even vaccinations where available (like for Lyme disease). Ultimately, staying informed and taking proactive steps to lower the risk is key to ensuring our pets live long, healthy, and happy lives, free from the burden of these preventable diseases. Your best friend will thank you. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Your Relationship With Your Dog is Suprisingly Important to Him

Research shows that a strong, loving relationship with our pets is more important to them than what type of person you are.

Ice Bucket Challenge for Dogs? Not Funny and Not Safe

PETA gives two thumbs down on this viral set-up stating they consider it an "appalling betrayal" of the dog's trust.

Doug the Pug Dons Cap and Gown to Receive Degree

Internet sensation, friend to the stars, and eCommerce mogul, what more could a dog want? A degree, of course!

Dogs That Survived Rescue Plane Crash, Begin Their New Lives

Hero pilot was devoted to helping pets in crisis find new homes.

High Blood Pressure in Cats: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments

Hypertension (high blood pressure) is a condition that can affect cats just like people. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure can be measured in cats, and a veterinarian can determine if a cat’s blood pressure is too high and needs to be treated. To learn more about this condition, including its causes, symptoms, and treatments, keep reading.

9 Signs Your Pet Is Trying to Tell You Something Important

Pets communicate with us all the time, it just doesn’t involve words. From changes in behavior to subtle body language, they have their own ways of letting us know when something’s wrong or when they need something.Being able to recognize those signs can help you catch health or emotional issues early on.Here are 9 signs your pet might be trying to tell you something important.

Is An Automatic Litter Box Safe for My Cat?

Scooping the litter box is arguably the most disliked chore that comes from sharing your home with a cat. It’s time-consuming and messy. It can even lead to back pain for some cat parents. For some, it makes the dream of being a cat parent inaccessible due to their own physical limitations. Thankfully, the rise of technology has led to a promising new solution – the automatic litter box. But with this convenience comes a natural concern: are these automatic boxes truly safe for our feline friends?Anytime we introduce technology to take over any aspect of our pets’ care, it should raise concerns. After all, we all want the best for our cats!And with the rise of cheaper, often poorly manufactured knock-off products, stories of safety concerns are becoming more common on social media.In this article, I’ll discuss the most important considerations when debating whether to introduce an automatic litter box into your home. This includes comparing the different types of boxes available and highlighting the critical safety features used by reputable brands. In the end, I hope you feel confident making an informed decision for your cat.Automatic Litter Box OptionsThere are a variety of automatic litter box styles to choose from, each with its own set of pros and cons. Despite the seemingly endless list of options, they can be sorted into three general categories:Sifting BoxesThese boxes use a sifting mechanism to remove any waste clumps from the clean litter. Sifting boxes are generally the most affordable of the automatic litter box options. They need less frequent maintenance to continue working optimally, but the sifting process isn’t always as reliable as the other options, occasionally leaving smaller clumps behind. Example: Omega Paw NRA15 Self-Cleaning Litter Box Self-Cleaning BoxesUsing a rake or paddle, self-cleaning boxes rake through the litter to remove waste from the clean litter and into a designated drawer. These boxes are known for being quite effective, even incorporating special features to reduce odors. However, they are more expensive than sifting boxes and require more maintenance. Some self-cleaning boxes also require specialized litter to operate effectively.Example: PetSafe ScoopFree Crystal Pro Self-Cleaning Litter BoxFull-Cycle BoxesThe most advanced of the options (and also the highest price tag), full-cycle litter boxes completely remove all waste from the litter box, holding it in a sealed drawer or compartment. With advanced features like self-cleaning cycles and odor filters, they are the most convenient option, keeping your house clean and smelling fresh. But with all the bells and whistles, they are more complex to operate and maintain.Example: Litter Robot 4 by WhiskerBy understanding the different features, price points, and maintenance needs of each type, you can choose the automatic litter box that best suits your cat’s needs and your lifestyle.The Rise of Knock-Off ProductsRecently, there has been a growing concern about the safety of automatic cat litter boxes, sparked by the devastating stories of cat parents whose best friends were injured or even killed from their use. But before you give up on the idea of automatic boxes entirely, there are some important points to be made.Philip Bloom ( One Man Five Cats on YouTube), an online creator and well-known product reviewer, made it his mission to uncover why this was happening and whether steps could be taken to make these boxes safe. He found that it wasn’t the concept of the box itself. Instead, it was the overwhelming number of cheaper, often poorly manufactured, knock-off products.While the allure of the budget-friendly price point is tempting, these imitation products frequently compromise safety and quality. They create risks already addressed with higher-quality products by not incorporating the necessary safety measures.Some of the more common safety hazards associated with these knock-off boxes include:Malfunctioning Mechanisms: Knock-off boxes are often poorly designed or manufactured with faulty or defective moving parts. This can lead to pinching, trapping, or injuring your cat. In the most heart-breaking cases, this can be fatal.Electrical Hazards: Faulty wiring and poorly applied or inadequate electrical insulation can increase the risk of short circuits, fires, or even electrocution.Toxic Materials: Like many other cheaply made products, some of these knock-off litter boxes are made using substandard or even harmful plastics that could release toxic fumes when heated or exposed to cat urine (which, being a litter box, they will inevitably be).Lack of Safety Features: Reputable brands prioritize the safety of our cats, incorporating features like motion sensors, emergency stop buttons, and reliable safety timers. Knock-off boxes are often missing most or all of these safeguards, increasing the risk of accidentsOne way you can keep your cat safe while upgrading to the convenience of a new litter box is by purchasing from reputable brands with a strong track record of safety and customer service. These boxes may be a little pricier, but it is a good example of “you get what you pay for.” Reputable brands invest in rigorous testing and quality control to ensure their products meet high safety standards.

What Does It Mean When My Cat Kneads Me?

Cats make wonderful companions - and sometimes, slightly mysterious ones too. One behavior that tends to puzzle (and delight) many cat owners is kneading. If your cat rhythmically presses their paws into your lap, a blanket, or even your belly, you’ve likely witnessed this adorable habit in action. Often nicknamed "making biscuits," kneading resembles the motion of kneading dough - and it’s as charming as it is curious.But what does it actually mean when your cat kneads you? Let’s take a closer look.It Starts in KittenhoodKneading begins as an instinctive behavior in kittens. When nursing, they knead their mother’s belly to help stimulate milk flow. This action becomes closely associated with comfort, warmth, and nourishment. While cats eventually outgrow nursing, many carry this kneading behavior into adulthood as a form of emotional expression.So, when your grown cat kneads you, it’s often a throwback to kittenhood - a signal that they feel safe, content, and cared for, just like they did with their mom.It’s a Sign of AffectionOne of the most common interpretations of kneading is simple: love. If your cat curls up in your lap and starts kneading away - especially while purring, head-butting, or settling in for a nap - they’re expressing trust and affection. Think of it as a cat’s version of a hug or a cuddle.In their own quiet way, they’re saying: “I feel good here. You’re my person.”It’s About Marking Territory, TooCats have scent glands in their paws, and kneading releases a bit of that scent. When your cat kneads you, they’re not just getting cozy - they’re marking you as theirs. It’s their subtle, instinctive way of saying: “This human belongs to me.”The same goes for kneading their favorite blanket or bed. It’s a comforting behavior that makes their environment feel familiar and secure.It’s About Nesting and ComfortIn the wild, cats knead grass or leaves to make a soft spot to rest or give birth. While your housecat doesn’t need to make a nest, that primal behavior still sticks around. When they knead a blanket, pillow, or your lap, they’re fluffing up their “bed” to make it extra comfy before they curl up for a nap.It’s ritualistic, soothing, and helps them feel calm, just like making the bed before turning in for the night.What If It’s Uncomfortable?While kneading is adorable, it can be a little painful if your cat’s claws are involved. Some cats get really enthusiastic with their paws, and may accidentally scratch your skin or snag clothing. If this becomes a problem, here’s what you can do:Keep their nails trimmed regularly.Place a thick blanket over your lap before they settle in.Gently redirect them to a soft pillow or bed if needed.Avoid scolding them - kneading is a deeply ingrained and comforting behavior. Instead, offer alternatives that let them keep the ritual without the ouch.When to WorryIn most cases, kneading is completely normal and nothing to worry about. But if your cat kneads obsessively, seems agitated while doing it, or cries out during the process, it might be a sign of discomfort, anxiety, or even pain. If anything feels off, it’s worth bringing up with your veterinarian.Final ThoughtsKneading is one of the many endearing ways your cat connects with you. Whether it’s a show of affection, a comfort ritual, or a claim of ownership- consider it a sweet compliment. If your cat’s kneading you, you’re probably doing something right.

Top stories

Colorado's Uber Dog Hits Star Status

Why Is My Fish Lying at the Bottom of the Tank?

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

Top stories

Colorado's Uber Dog Hits Star Status

Related articles