Determined Beagle Gets a Lift on Her Latest Hiking Adventure

Cat Owners Spend Over $22,000 to Find Their Missing Pet

A German couple hasn’t lost hope and is still looking for their cat, which has been missing for nearly a year. Rafael and Monika Klajnszmit were traveling from their home in Eschwege to Bavaria in July 2024 when their black cat, named Nero, went missing in Erlangen.“I wanted to spend my vacation with my wife in Chiemgau. She was in rehab there. I stopped at a hotel in Erlangen. Then Nero jumped out of his transport box and ran away,” said Rafael. In the months following their cat’s disappearance, the couple has spent over $22,000 on their efforts to find Nero and bring him home. They have spent hundreds of dollars on gas and hotels as they make a 300-mile round trip from their home in Eschwege to Erlangen each weekend. They’ve also bought special cameras, food bowls, and Nero’s favorite food - tuna. So far, Rafael and Monica have put up about 10,000 missing cat posters, knocked on doors, and enlisted the help of local volunteers, who ensure all eight food bowls are always full of tuna. Rafael provided microchip readers to volunteers so they could scan all black cats they came across in the city. “They are on standby day and night, every hour if I call them, they’ll get in the car and drive to read out the chip,” Rafael told the Times. But so far, they were out of luck. Not everyone in Erlengen was so forthcoming, and the couple’s search efforts were met with some resistance from the locals who weren’t happy with flyers being hung up. Instead, Rafael and Monica had to physically hand out posters to people on the street. According to Rafael, Nero’s shy personality could be the thing preventing the cat from being found. “He’s not the kind of cat who goes up to people to get stroked,” he explained. “I can imagine he’s so scared that he only moves around at night.” To maximize their search efforts, the couple took to social media and set up a Facebook page called Nero - ein bub velrolen in Erlangen, which translates to Nero - a boy lost in Erlangen. At this time, the page has more than 4,000 followers and 2,500 likes. There, the couple shares updates and pictures of their furry companion in hopes someone in the area will recognize their cat and help bring him home. “He means a lot to me. He’s a friend and a member of the family. And you don’t abandon your friends,” said Rafael. “ I’m not giving up. I know he’s still alive.”He explained that Nero is chipped, and if he were found dead, the owners would have been notified. “The vets and the motorway maintenance department say that when a dead animal is retrieved, the chip is read.”Talking about anyone who might come across Nero or another cat, Rafael added, “We can only ask people to secure the cat, take it to the vet, and get the chip checked. It might not be Nero, but there are many missing cats and a lot can be rescued in this way.” In a Facebook post, Rafael wrote that he’s very happy that now many English-speaking people, particularly students, in Erlangen have heard about Nero and may have unknowingly become a part of his story, maybe even someone saw him or sheltered him. I’m deeply touched to see how far his story has already reached, across national borders. People all over the world are wondering where Nero might be.”Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How Much of My Dogs Grooming Can I Do Without Formal Training?

(photo credit: Zuzanna Paluch / shutterstock.com)With two Schnoodles and a Miniature Schnauzer, grooming costs can take a big bite out of my budget. And like many pet owners with dogs in need of regular clipping, I not only considered the do-it-yourself option during COVID, but I jumped in with both feet. Yes, grooming kit and all, I clipped and shaved with guesswork guiding me, because I had no choice. The results? Rough to say the least, with my go-to response to other dog owners being “at least they’re cooler now”.Of course, once quarantines were lifted, I was happy to let the professionals take over, but my foray into grooming did make me wonder if, by doing some of the “clean-up” work myself, I could extend the duration between those pricey haircuts. The easy stuff, like ear cleaning, bath and blow dry, nail trimming.The truth is, with the right equipment, I can, and it starts with a good brushing. And we’re talking a serious clean-up with the sole goal being to remove tangles and the bits of debris your pooch has collected over the past week or so. Legs, ears, paws, torso, beak… it all gets a thorough once-over.

Here’s How You Can Transform Your Pet’s Life

As devoted pet parents, we understand that our furry friends deserve nothing but the best when it comes to their health. In today’s market, many supplements rely on synthetic ingredients that simply don’t deliver the wholesome nutrition our pets truly need. That’s where Pluto comes in - a company founded in 2023 in Austin, TX, with a mission to extend and enhance the lives of our canine companions through holistic, science-backed, whole-food nutrition.A Fresh Approach to Pet HealthPluto isn’t just another pet supplement brand. Born from the belief that real food is the foundation of true wellness, Pluto’s approach is rooted in rigorous science and the expertise of a dedicated veterinarian team. Unlike many products on the market that rely on synthetic vitamins and isolated compounds, Pluto harnesses the power of whole foods. This method not only improves nutrient absorption - ensuring that every bite counts - but also simplifies pet wellness by combining the benefits of 25 superfoods into a single, effective supplement.The Superfood Softchew®: All-in-One Nutrition

How to Keep Pets Cool and Safe During Heatwaves

As we head into summer, heatwaves are likely on the horizon. A chance to relax in the garden might be something to look forward to, but heat waves can also be dangerous —not only for humans but also for our beloved pets.Animals are especially vulnerable to heat-related illnesses so whether you have a dog, cat, rabbit, bird, or another companion animal, it’s essential to take proactive steps to keep them safe and comfortable when the weather heats up.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you. 

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.

5 Common Home Decor Items That Are Risky to Keep Around Dogs

When decorating your home, it’s easy to focus on aesthetics and forget that some popular decor choices can actually be dangerous for your dog. While many items seem harmless to us, they can pose serious health or safety risks to our four-legged friends. Here are five common home decor items that dog owners should be cautious about.

The Pros and Cons of Catios for Feline Companions

“Catio” is a cute term for an enclosed patio for cats—in other words, it’s a “cat patio.” It can stand on its own as an outdoor cat enclosure, or it can be connected to a window or door that leads to your backyard space. Either way, it lets your kitty spend time outside while remaining safely confined.

How to Help a Pet Adjust After Moving to a New Home

Moving to a new home is a big deal - a fresh start, new surroundings, and, let’s be honest, a whole lot of chaos. While it might be exciting for you, it can be pretty overwhelming for your pet.Animals are creatures of habit. They rely on familiar routines and safe spaces, so when everything around them suddenly changes, it’s normal for them to feel stressed, anxious, or even act out. But with a little planning, patience, and love, you can help your pet feel at home in their new space - and even enjoy the adventure along the way.Here’s how to make the transition easier for them (and for you).Start Preparing Before the MoveThe adjustment process doesn’t start on moving day - it starts before the first box is packed.Try to:Stick to your pet’s usual routine for feeding, walks, and play. Familiarity = comfort.Keep their things where they are for as long as possible. Bedding, toys, and bowls should be the last things you pack.Introduce travel crates or carriers early. If your pet isn’t used to one, give them time to explore and get comfortable with it beforehand. Add a favorite blanket or treat to create positive associations.The more you can maintain normalcy in the lead-up to the move, the better your pet will handle the changes ahead.

What's the Best Way to Stop My Cat's Hairballs?

It’s a struggle nearly every cat parent has experienced at least once. You’re enjoying a quiet evening, curled up on the couch, when you suddenly hear that distinctive retching sound. Your heart sinks a little knowing what’s coming, and sure enough, there it is: a slimy gift on your once-clean rug. A hairball.The unwelcome by-product of your cat’s dedicated grooming habits. While they may be common, that doesn’t make them any less gross or, more importantly, any less concerning for your cat’s well-being. While an occasional hairball might be a normal part of living with a cat, frequent or problematic hairballs should be taken seriously.In this post, I will explain exactly why hairballs happen and the potential risks associated with them that you should be familiar with. More importantly, I’ll share steps you can take to significantly reduce their frequency and help your cat lead a more comfortable, hairball-free life.Why Hairballs FormTo tackle hairballs, you must first understand how they are created. It all begins with your cat’s grooming habits, a cornerstone of feline hygiene. Cats are renowned for their cleanliness, spending a significant portion of their day meticulously grooming themselves. This process isn’t just about looking good; it’s essential for their skin and coat health.Their secret weapon to effective grooming is their tongue. A cat’s tongue isn’t smooth like ours; it’s covered in tiny, backward-facing spines called papillae. These spines act like a natural brush, running through the fur as they lick, snagging loose and dead hair, dirt, and debris.The Journey of Ingested HairAs your cat grooms, a certain amount of this loose hair is inevitably swallowed. For the most part, this ingested hair will pass harmlessly through their digestive system and be expelled in their waste. This is the ideal scenario, and it happens without a hitch for many cats.However, sometimes the hair doesn’t make it all the way through. When a significant amount of hair accumulates in the stomach, it can clump together, forming a dense, compact mass that your cat’s digestive system can no longer process or pass. This is what we know as a hairball, or scientifically, a trichobezoar. At this point, your cat’s body recognizes that it is something that needs to be expelled, triggering the familiar retching, and you know the rest…Why Some Cats Form More Hairballs Than OthersWhile every cat grooms and ingests some hair, certain factors can significantly increase the likelihood that your cat will be unable to pass this hair, leading to hairball formation. This includes:Coat length and type: This is perhaps the most obvious factor. Long-haired breeds, like Maine Coons, Persians, or Ragdolls, naturally shed and ingest far more hair during grooming than their short-haired counterparts. More hair going in means a higher chance of a hairball forming.Shedding season: Just like us, cats experience seasonal shedding. During these high shedding periods, typically in spring and fall, the sheer volume of loose hair they ingest skyrockets, making hairballs more prevalent.Grooming habits: Sometimes, a cat may groom excessively, causing them to ingest more hair than usual. This over-grooming isn’t always about cleanliness. It can be a symptom of underlying issues like stress, anxiety, allergies, skin irritations, or even pain in a particular area. Addressing the root cause of the over-grooming is essential if you want to reduce hairballs.Underlying health issues: Less commonly, a cat’s digestive system might not function as it should. Conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), other digestive tract issues, parasites, or even dental problems that make eating uncomfortable can hinder the normal passage of the ingested hair through the intestines. This, of course, makes it more likely to accumulate in the stomach and form a hairball.When Hairballs Become a Concern Hairballs may not be a pleasant experience, but an occasional hairball is nothing to be too concerned about. However, as cat parents, we must learn how to recognize the fine line between a regular occurrence and a potential health concern.  Normal vs. Problematic HairballsFor most cats, especially those with longer coats or during shedding seasons, producing a small hairball every now and then can be expected. Think of it as their natural way of clearing out the ingested hair that didn’t make it through the digestive tract. However, if your cat starts producing hairballs frequently (for instance, several times a month or multiple times a week), you should consider it a red flag. Similarly, if the hairballs are unusually large or they are accompanied by other noticeable changes in your cat’s health or behavior, it’s time to pay closer attention. These are signs that something more might be going on, suggesting that your cat’s system isn’t processing the hair effectively. Signs of Serious Hairball Issues If you notice any of the following symptoms combined with, or in place of, frequent hairballs, it’s a strong indication that there may be bigger concerns requiring prompt vet attention: Frequent vomiting (beyond just hairballs): If your cat consistently throws up food or bile, even without producing a hairball, it suggests a broader digestive upset or other underlying medical issues. Straining to defecate or constipation: Hairballs can sometimes become lodged in the intestines, making it difficult for your cat to pass stool. You might notice them repeatedly trying to use the litter box unsuccessfully. Loss of appetite or weight loss: A significant decrease in food intake or noticeable weight loss is a serious red flag, often signaling a gastrointestinal blockage or other significant health issue causing discomfort. Lethargy or hiding: A sudden change in your cat’s energy levels, becoming unusually sluggish, withdrawn, or hiding more than usual, can be a sign of pain or illness. Persistent coughing or gagging (without producing a hairball): This symptom is particularly concerning, as it could be a sign of a partial obstruction in the throat or esophagus, or even a respiratory issue mimicking hairball attempts. Bloated or painful abdomen: A swollen, distended, or tender belly is a critical sign of a severe blockage or other abdominal problem. Diarrhea: While less commonly associated directly with hairballs, persistent diarrhea can also signal overall gut upset that might be contributing to or exacerbated by hairball issues. The Danger of Intestinal Blockages The most significant risk associated with hairballs is the potential for an intestinal blockage, also known as an obstruction. This occurs when a hairball becomes too large or dense to pass safely through the narrow space of your cat’s intestines, getting stuck and completely blocking the digestive tract. This isn’t just uncomfortable; it’s a genuine medical emergency that can quickly become life-threatening. An intestinal blockage prevents food and waste from moving through, leading to severe pain, dehydration, tissue damage, and potentially rupture of the intestine. If left untreated, it can be fatal. This medical emergency almost always requires immediate vet intervention, which often includes surgery to remove the obstruction. This is why it is so critical that cat parents learn to recognize the signs of trouble and seek veterinary care without delay if they suspect something may be wrong.

Here's How to Prepare Your Pets for Hurricane Season

The Atlantic hurricane season is almost upon us, and forecasts warn we’ll likely see more storms than average. The storm season officially starts on June 1 and lasts till November 30, but storms may also occur before or after these dates.Last year’s hurricane season has devastated communities with flooding, mudslides, and wind, causing billions of dollars in damage and leaving thousands of people without a home. According to the American Veterinary Association, 45.5% of U.S. households own at least one dog, and 32.1% have at least one cat. An estimated 89.7 million dogs and 73.8 million cats are kept as pets in the United States, and all of them face the same risks during the hurricane season as their owners. The United States Department of Homeland Security has created a website to help people prepare for natural disasters and emergencies. There you can find a list of items people should have prepared in case of an emergency. A basic disaster supply kit should contain food, water, flashlights, cash, personal hygiene items, cell phone chargers, and prescription medication, among other things. But what about our dogs and cats? Is there any way to include them in your family’s emergency plan, and if you have to evacuate, can they be taken to safety as well?“Sometimes it’s much more challenging to get certain things when you’re in a hurry,” said Sarah Cortright, a Southern California-based small animal veterinarian. Packing a pet’s vaccination records, medication, food, and other necessities is much harder when trying to escape a deadly storm. It’s essential to have all these things prepared. Make sure you have at least two weeks' worth of your pet’s prescription medication in case you are forced to stay away from home for an extended period. Remember that veterinary offices may also stay closed because of severe weather, making it impossible to refill prescriptions quickly or obtain your pet’s vaccination or medical records.“Coming out of L.A. fires, we saw a lot of pets that needed medications, and they had no documentation,” making it difficult for veterinarians to refill scripts, explained Cortright. She advises keeping a copy of your pet’s medical and vaccination records digitally and on paper.“Even if it’s just a picture of the records on your phone, that’s enough,” she said, adding that animals may be separated from their families and boarded in separate facilities, for which they’ll need proof of vaccination. If you haven’t microchipped your pet yet, make sure to do so before the hurricane season. Keep your contact information up to date. In case you lose your pet during the storm, a microchip can help reunite you with your four-legged companion.Cortright suggests packing a carrier for each cat and a small dog, and a leash or a harness for medium and large-sized pooches. Pack as much food and water for your pets as you can carry, as well as food and water bowls. If possible, take their bedding and a couple of toys as well. Bring some litter for cats so they have a place to relieve themselves, and waste bags for dogs.Take recent photos of your pets to help with identification in case they get lost, and make sure they have ID tags and collars. Make a plan that includes a pet-friendly place to stay and copies of documentation to ensure all your pets stay safe. “Have extras of things set aside and ready to go,” suggested Cortright. “Just like you would for humans.” No one ever thinks they’ll end up caught in a storm. But planning before the hurricane season starts will make things a lot easier for you and your pet. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

Do Cats Miss Their Owners? Here's What Science Says

Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you. Cats are famously independent. Unlike their canine counterparts, who leap with joy at the mere sound of their human’s footsteps, felines often maintain a mysterious emotional distance. But behind those cool, almond-shaped eyes, is there longing when you're away? Do cats actually miss their owners? Let’s look into it. 

Dog Stick Libraries... They Really Are a Thing

For stick-loving dogs, the opportunity to pick his favorite size, shape, and weight of timber, is bringing the fun back to leash-free parks.

Should I Feed My Cat Wet or Dry Food?

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

Introducing a New Cat to Your Pet Family? We Can Help!

(photo credit: Ilyas Kalimullin / shutterstock.com)Is there anything more stressful than introducing a new pet to an angry cat that’s feeling displaced and totally stressed? I’ve done it many times and can confirm that if not done carefully, it can take weeks to correct. Especially if she’s hit or struck with claws out and the new kid on the block is now afraid.What does carefully look like? It’s taking a slow, patient approach to the initial face-to-face and it does require pre-planning.

How to Tell If Your Dog is "Contented" Happy... or Just Faking!

Yes, there's a difference between temporarily happy and deep down content... here's how to differentiate.

What is Giardia in Cats?

It’s a moment of concern that no cat parent wants – when you scoop the litter box, and something just looks… off. Perhaps your usually energetic cat seems a little less playful, or their stool isn’t its normal consistency. We strive to give our cats the best possible quality of life, and any change of behavior that deviates from their usual happy, healthy selves sends us searching for answers. After all, we want to fix it! Right? While we often think of obvious threats and concerns, like fleas and ticks, some of the most common challenges to our cats' well-being are microscopic pests and parasites. One such threat that is often overlooked or undiscussed is Giardia, an intestinal parasite that can significantly impact your cat’s digestive health and overall comfort. Understanding Giardia – how it spreads, the signs to watch for, and most importantly, how to prevent and address it – is vital for every cat owner. In this post, we’ll talk about the basics of Giardia and the practical steps you can take to prioritize your cat’s health. What Exactly is Giardia? Giardia is a protozoan – a single-celled, microscopic parasite, different from the bacteria and viruses we usually associate with health problems. Think of protozoa as tiny, primitive organisms that can move around and often live within a host animal. Another protozoan parasite that impacts the intestine, you may have heard of, is Coccidia. This is important to note, as while they all fall under the broad umbrella of parasites, their life cycles and the challenges they pose for the host animal can differ. For Giardia to survive and spread, it relies on a two-stage life cycle. The first stage is the cyst. These are the hardy, protective capsules that the Giardia organism forms outside the host’s body. It allows the organism to survive for weeks or months in cool, moist environments like contaminated water sources, soil, and food. The cycle continues when a cat ingests these cysts, perhaps from grooming them off their fur after walking through contaminated soil or drinking from a contaminated puddle. Inside the cat’s small intestine, the cysts grow into active, feeding organisms known as trophozoites. These trophozoites attach to the intestinal lining, interfering with nutrient absorption and causing the symptoms associated with Giardiasis. As they multiply, some trophozoites will transform back into cysts, being shed in the cat’s feces to complete the cycle and allow the parasite to infect other animals (or re-infect the same cat). What Cats Are Most Susceptible to Giardia? Any cat can pick up Giardia, but several factors could increase a cat’s risk. Cats with outdoor access are at a significantly higher risk due to their access to potentially contaminated soil, puddles, and the feces of other infected animals. Additionally, multi-cat households have a higher risk as they share litter boxes, food bowls, and even groom one another, making transmission between the cats more likely. Kittens and very young cats are particularly vulnerable to the effects of Giardia, as their immune systems are still developing and may not be strong enough to fight off the infection as effectively. Similarly, cats with compromised immune systems due to stress, illness, or other underlying health conditions are also more susceptible to developing an infection if exposed to Giardia. Common Signs of Giardia in Cats Detecting Giardia in your cat can be challenging. The symptoms cover a broad spectrum, ranging from virtually unnoticeable to severely debilitating. Some cats can even be asymptomatic carriers, meaning they carry the parasite and shed cysts into the environment without showing any outward signs of the illness. Symptoms can also be intermittent, appearing for a few days, disappearing, and then recurring weeks later, making it difficult for even the most observant cat parent to identify if they have recovered. Here are the most common signs to watch out for: Gastrointestinal Troubles When Giardia does manifest noticeable symptoms, it primarily affects the gastrointestinal system. The most common and tell-tale sign is diarrhea. This isn’t just any loose stool; it’s often characterized as soft, watery, or even greasy in appearance. It also frequently has a foul odor. You may notice mucus in the stool, or in more severe cases, traces of blood. This is why it’s important to be observant when cleaning your cat’s litter box to pick up on any signs of trouble their waste may reveal. While less common than diarrhea, vomiting can occur, especially if the infection is severe or persistent. In young kittens or chronic cases, the loss of nutrient absorption caused by Giardia can lead to weight loss and a general failure to thrive, hindering their growth and development. A cat struggling to absorb nutrients from their diet may also display poor coat health, with their coat appearing dull, dry, or unkempt despite keeping up with their regular grooming. Subtle signs of abdominal pain or discomfort may be present. This includes a hunched posture, sensitivity when touched around the belly, or a reluctance to enjoy their usual playful daytime activities. Behavioral Changes Beyond the gastrointestinal struggles, Giardia can also lead to more general signs of illness, with your cat’s behavior revealing that they aren’t feeling quite like themselves. A noticeable decrease in their activity level (lethargy) is common, as they no longer have the usual energy to keep up with their day. You may also notice a loss of appetite or a reduced interest in food or treats, contributing to further weight loss. In cases of severe diarrhea and vomiting, dehydration can become a serious concern, especially because cats are, naturally, more prone to hydration-related problems. Visible signs of dehydration include sunken eyes or skin that, when gently pinched, is slow to return to its normal position. When to Be Concerned Any persistent change in your cat’s bathroom habits, particularly chronic or recurring diarrhea, should be considered a red flag. While soft stool doesn’t necessarily mean Giardia, these consistent changes are often a sign of a more significant medical issue. Early diagnosis and intervention are key to minimizing your cat’s discomfort, furthering the spread of the parasite, and helping your cat feel like their happy, healthy self again.

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

Signs of Illness in Pet Rats

Pet rats are super cute, loads of fun, and very smart, but like all pets, you need to be aware of the health problems they might develop, especially as they get older. Plus, many diseases are spread between rats or caused by improper housing conditions, so being aware of the potential infections they can develop will be useful in helping to keep them healthy.