Do Frogs Make Good Pets?

Do Ferrets Make Good Pets?

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

Do Rabbits Make Good Pets for Children?

Rabbits are undeniably adorable - fluffy, quiet, and full of charm. It’s no surprise that many children (and adults!) fall in love at first sight with them. But while rabbits can make wonderful companions, they aren’t always the right fit for every child or household. Like any pet, they have specific needs and behaviors that deserve careful consideration before bringing one home.Understanding Rabbit TemperamentUnlike cats or dogs, rabbits are prey animals by nature. This means they’re often more sensitive to loud noises, sudden movements, and rough handling. Young children, especially toddlers, may have a hard time being gentle or recognizing when a rabbit is scared or stressed.Many rabbits prefer to keep all four feet on the ground and don’t enjoy being picked up or cuddled tightly. For children expecting a snuggly, always-up-for-play kind of pet, this can be disappointing. Rabbits show affection in more subtle ways - nudging your hand, flopping down beside you, or following you around when they trust you.That doesn’t mean they can’t bond with children, but it does take patience, quiet interaction, and a calm environment.Rabbits Need Daily CareCaring for a rabbit is more involved than people often expect. They require:A balanced diet of fresh hay, rabbit pellets, leafy greens, and clean water.A clean and secure enclosure that offers enough room to move around, stretch, and hide.Daily exercise outside of their cage in a bunny-proofed area to stay physically and mentally healthy.Chew toys and enrichment to prevent boredom and dental issues.Even if a rabbit is technically “the child’s pet,” the reality is that most of the daily responsibilities - cleaning, feeding, vet visits - fall to the adults. Before bringing one home, ask yourself if your family is ready to take this on for the long haul.A Long-Term CommitmentRabbits live an average of 8–12 years, and some even longer. That’s a significant commitment, especially as children grow up, go through new interests, or eventually move out. It’s important to consider not just if your child is ready for a rabbit now, but if your household is ready for one for the next decade.That said, older children - especially those who are gentle, patient, and truly interested in animals - can form deep, meaningful bonds with rabbits. With the right guidance and supervision, they can learn responsibility, empathy, and the joy of caring for another living being.Choosing the Right RabbitIf you do decide a rabbit is the right choice for your family, it helps to research different breeds. Some are known for being more easygoing and social than others. For example, Mini Lops and Holland Lops are often recommended for families because of their calm temperaments.It's also a good idea to adopt from a rabbit rescue or shelter. Not only can staff help match you with a rabbit that fits your household, but many rabbits in rescues are already socialized and litter-trained.Setting Up a Rabbit-Friendly HomeTo make your new pet comfortable, you'll need:

Do Birds Make a Good Pet for Children?

Are you a bird lover and look forward to sharing that love with your child? Has your child recently been asking to add a bird to the family? If so, there are a few critical factors that you need to consider… While a pet can be a great way to teach responsibility and respect for animals, not every pet is ideal for children – especially young children! At this early age, kids are still learning how to navigate the world around them. They are often loud and unpredictable, creating an uncomfortable situation for a new pet who doesn’t know or understand what to expect. This can lead to injuries to your child or your new pet. This brings us back to the question of the day – Do birds make good pets for children? The answer isn’t as black and white as you may have hoped… Do Pet Birds Cuddle? One of the things we often love about spending time with a pet is the love and affection that they share. Most people think of cuddly cats and dogs when they think of snuggling up with a pet. But these furry companions aren’t the only pets that enjoy curling up with their people. In fact, some bird species thrive on physical affection. But this isn’t true for all birds. If you’re looking for a cuddly bird, you will need to research the options available. Parrots are well known for their affectionate personalities. When they bond with their person, they enjoy throwing their love by spending time with you, sleeping on you, preening you, and, of course, cuddling you. However, don’t overlook the significant commitment that comes with raising a parrot! The Scarlet Macaw, for example, often lives 50-75 years, but there are reports of Macaws living longer than 100 years. They also grow considerably larger than many pet birds, requiring more space for a proper habitat.Other birds that are also known to be cuddly include: Lovebirds Canaries CockatoosCockatielsConuresParakeetsDoves

Animal Planet’s “My Big Fat Pet Makeover” Helps Pets Shed The Fl

Did the dog days of summer leave your pets a little extra fluffy this year? A new show on Animal Planet has some great tips for helping keep your pet light on her feet….just in time for the holiday season! My Big Fat Makeover has helped thousands of people slim down to trimmer, healthier versions of themselves, and Animal Planet’s new My Big Fat Pet Makeover promises to do the same thing for hefty pets, while sharing tips with viewers on how to keep extra weight off their pets at home too! Related: Overweight Labrador Loses 60 Pounds, But Still Lives Life Large! Animal Planet’s Pet Expert and founder of Greatest American Dog Trainers Travis Brorsen has taken on the challenge of slimming down cats and dogs to their healthiest weights. In each episode, you’ll see pets and their owners learn about healthy eating habits (mainly, measured feeding plans that pet owners stick to!) as well as tips for exercise and ways to diet your pet without feeling like you are starving them. Brorsen says that it takes tough love, but helping your heavy pet shed pounds really is a great act of love in that it keeps them slim and active and lowers their risk of diseases that could take them from you before their time. Brorsen says that you can often extend a pet’s lifespan by two years if it is at a healthy weight vs. obese, and that’s priceless. Related: Famous Fat Cat Who Inspired Meme Honored With Statue And while he employs some pretty cool technology with his clients (hello, FitBark!), he says that educating owners is what takes the most training. People think feeding their pets shows love, and that’s not always the case. He also helps families develop systems that match their family lifestyle, and allow the family pet to be his or her healthiest. Most importantly, he says, families need to be diligent and consistent in their commitment to their pet’s best health. Check out the trailer for the debut episode, featuring an adorable (but overweight) beagle named Fletcher!

Halo Hosts NYC Pop Up Shop to “Do Good” for Pets

We love to shop – especially when it’s for a wonderful cause. And that’s why we were excited to hear that Halo, Purely for Pets, a natural pet food company co-owned by Ellen DeGeneres, is hosting a “Pop Up Shop.” Being held now until June 26, Halo’s Pop Up Shop can be found at The Corner, located at the Roger Smith Hotel, 501 Lexington Ave. at 47th St in New York City. During this month long event, called “Halo City Tails – NYC,” pet lovers will be able to help pets in need. You can meet adoptable pets from local shelters and rescues, enter weekly raffles, attend pet performances and hear from experts like Dr. Marty Becker, “America’s Veterinarian.” If you’re in the area, pop in and support the Halo Pet Foundation with a charitable contribution. You’ll pick up some merchandise from the Ellen Show, and have a chance to win prizes like shelter donations, tickets to see the Ellen Show in Los Angeles, and more. Don’t worry if you don’t live in New York City. Halo is also running a social media “Check in for Charity” campaign, where you can participate in City Tails and “do good for pets” by visiting Halo retailers for a chance to win 10,000 meals of Halo from Freekibble.com for a shelter of your choice. You can check out an updated calendar of events, hours and participating New York retailers at Halo’s City Tails website. Photo credit: Long Island Pet Professionals

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. 

Keeping Pets Safe During Snake Season

As temperatures climb and wildlife wakes up, so do the snakes, and for curious dogs and cats, that can be a dangerous mix. Every year, veterinary clinics across the country see a spike in pet snake bites as the weather warms up. And while not all snakes are venomous, even a non-venomous bite can turn into a big, painful problem for your pet.For pet parents living in snake-prone areas, this time of year means staying vigilant, and a little more cautious, on walks, hikes, or even in their own backyard.According to Dr. Sharon Gwaltney-Brant, a board-certified veterinary toxicologist with the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, snakes tend to be more active during the warmer months, especially in the spring and summer. “Most bites occur when pets are off-leash, wandering into brush or tall grass where snakes like to hide,” she said.The good news? A little preparation can go a long way in keeping your pet out of harm’s way.If you live in a region where snakes are part of the landscape, like deserts, forests, or even suburban neighborhoods near undeveloped land, it’s smart to snake-proof your yard as best as you can. That means trimming overgrown bushes, sealing up holes or gaps in fences, and removing any piles of wood, leaves, or clutter where a snake might want to hang out.And when it comes to outdoor adventures, it’s best to keep your dog on a leash and stay on well-worn trails. Off-leash romps might feel freeing, but they can quickly turn into emergencies if your dog sticks their nose somewhere it shouldn’t.“Dogs are naturally curious. They don’t understand what a rattlesnake is or that it can hurt them,” said Dr. Andrew Hanzlicek, a clinical assistant professor at Oklahoma State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. “They may think it’s something to play with, and that’s where we see a lot of accidents.”If you do run into a snake, the best move is to calmly back away. Don’t let your dog investigate, and avoid trying to handle the situation yourself, especially if the snake is coiled or hissing. Venomous snakes won’t always rattle before striking.So, what happens if your pet does get bitten?First, don’t try any home remedies. No ice, no cutting the wound, and definitely no attempts to suck out venom.Instead, carry your pet (if possible) and get them to a vet immediately. Time matters. Most dogs survive venomous bites if treated quickly, but delays can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, or even death.Treatment often includes antivenom, IV fluids, and pain relief. The faster they’re seen, the better their odds. And yes, treatment can be expensive, so if you live in an area with high snake activity, pet insurance or a snakebite savings fund might not be a bad idea.There’s also the option of snakebite vaccine for dogs, available in certain regions. While it doesn’t guarantee immunity, it may help reduce the severity of a bite and buy you valuable time to get to the vet. Still, it’s not a replacement for caution.And just because you haven’t seen a snake doesn’t mean they’re not around. Some species are quiet, camouflaged, and surprisingly good at hiding in plain sight.For cat parents, the advice is similar. The only thing that’s different is that cats tend to get bitten on their bodies instead of the face or legs like dogs do. And because they’re smaller, venom can spread more quickly. If your cat spends time outside, supervise playtime, especially in shady or overgrown areas.Snake season doesn’t have to be scary, but it does require a bit of awareness. A little prevention, a lot of supervision, and knowing what to do in case of an emergency can make all the difference.Our pets rely on us to keep them safe, even from things slithering in the grass.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

What Are Signs of Illness in Pet Turtles?

Turtles are unique and fascinating pets, valued for their calm demeanor and long lifespans. However, one challenge that turtle owners face is detecting illness early. In the wild, turtles instinctively hide signs of weakness to avoid predators. As a result, pet turtles often show only subtle symptoms when they are unwell.Becoming familiar with your turtle’s normal behavior, appetite, and appearance is essential. Early identification of illness greatly improves the chances of successful treatment, so here are the key signs to watch for.Changes in AppetiteA sudden loss of appetite is often one of the earliest and most noticeable signs of illness. Healthy turtles typically eat with enthusiasm, especially when offered favored foods.If a turtle begins refusing meals, particularly favorite treats, it should be taken seriously. While minor fluctuations in appetite can occur due to changes in temperature or environment, persistent refusal to eat may signal infections, digestive issues, or stress.

3 Unexpected Things Dog Owners Get In Trouble For

Most dog owners know the basic rules: keep your dog on a leash, clean up after them, and make sure they don’t bark too much. But there are other, less obvious ways you can get into trouble with your dog, too.In this article, we’ll take a quick look at three unexpected things dog owners often get in trouble for, even when they don’t mean to! 

Clean-Up Hacks to Keep Your Dog's Best Face Forward

(photo credit: wedmoments.com / shutterstock.com)I have Schnoodles, and for those with bearded dogs, ‘nuff said, right?I mean those iconic little beards are adorable but they’re also a catch-all for errant bits of kibble, drying chunks of once-wet food, burrs, twigs… you get the picture.And while my furry threesome doesn’t always require a full body bath, those faces most definitely need a little extra care. And we’re talking daily extra care. From runny eyes that stain and crust to stinky ears, burred chins, the aforementioned beards and of course everyone’s favorite maintenance issue – teeth.Taking a few minutes each day to tackle the Big 5 – ears, face, beard, eyes and teeth – not only keeps your pet looking their best but allows you to spot any problem areas and stave off heavy matting and staining early on in the game. Now, we’re not talking about grooming or cutting your pet’s overgrowth of fur, just cleaning it up. And if you live with a Yorkie, Schnauzer, Poodle, Maltese, Bichon Frise, or any other breed with longer facial hair, read on.

Adding a Degu to the Family? Let's Get You Properly Set Up!

Its True! Some Cats Purr More Than Others

Kyoto University determines how nature versus nurture plays a role in how vocal your feline is.

A New Cancer Drug Shows Promise for Both Cats and People

A new drug may be used for treating cancer—more specifically, oral squamous cell carcinoma—according to a clinical trial conducted by researchers in California. Keep reading to learn a bit about this promising treatment and how it might help cats and humans.

Study Finds Owning a Pet Is As Good For You As Being Married

Owning a pet cat or a dog can be as satisfying as being married, or regularly seeing your friends, or family, a new study shows. The study, published in the journal Social Indicators Research, also found that having a four-legged companion offers the same psychological benefits as being married or earning an extra $90,000 a year. Researchers at Kent University used the “life satisfaction” approach, which economists use to measure intangible assets like family and friendship, to calculate a hypothetical income. The study analyzed data from 2,500 British families and found that owning a pet comes with an increase in life satisfaction of 3-4 points on a scale of 1-7. Similar values were acquired for meeting with friends and family regularly.In other studies, economists have shown that marriage, compared to being single, is worth around $90,000 a year. On the other hand, separation is equal to around minus $170,000. The lead author of this study, Dr Adelina Gschwandtner, an economics professor at the University of Kent, told The Times she was inspired by a recent research paper that put a price tag on human friendships. “I thought, ‘well, if it’s possible for friends, why not for pets?’”“I understand why some people may be skeptical,” she added. “Given that pets are considered by many as best friends and family members, these values appear to be plausible… I also suspect that many people don’t actually realize how important their pets are for them.”Numerous studies have shown that owning a pet offers many health benefits. Research shows that spending time with a dog relieves stress, keeps you active, and helps you live longer. Stroking a cat has been proven to lower blood pressure and heart rate. Having a cat at home can reduce the risk of asthma and allergic rhinitis in children exposed to allergens. A simple act of petting a cat or a dog helps lower the levels of the stress hormone cortisol, promoting calmness and reducing stress. Dr Gschwandtner added, “This research answers the question whether overall pet companions are good for us with a resounding ‘Yes’.”“Pets care for us, and there is a significant monetary value associated with their companionship. This information can be used for health care practices and policy aiming to increase well-being and life satisfaction of humans involving pets.” This study also shed some light on the personality traits of pet owners, noting that cat owners appear to be more open, while dog owners tend to be more agreeable, extroverted, and less neurotic. The study’s authors also pointed out that pet owners in general appear to be more open, conscientious, and extroverted than people who don’t own a pet.While the mental and physical benefits of owning a dog are well-known, scientists are still debating the overall impact pets have on their owners’ well-being. According to Megan Mueller, an associate professor at Tufts University who studies the relationship between people and animals, things are more complicated than they seem. “A lot of us see our pets as contributing to our life satisfaction, but depending on how you measure that in the research, it comes out different ways.” But rather than comparing pet ownership and life satisfaction, the authors of this study decided to prove a causal link. If the results of this study are correct, and pets improve satisfaction as much as data suggests, Dr Gschwandtner hopes policymakers will make it easier for people to own cats or dogs. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Hiding Pills and Liquids to Make Medicine Time Easier for Cats

Medicine time for cats can be stressful, especially if your kitty is difficult to pill or you have to give them a liquid medication that tastes awful. But if you implement the right strategies, things can go more smoothly. Many people find that they can hide a pill or liquid in food to trick their pet into thinking it’s treat time instead of medicine time, so it’s worth trying out a few methods to figure out what works for your feline.

Can I Keep Two Hamsters Together?

It’s a common question for new hamster owners: Can two hamsters live in the same cage? While many pets enjoy companionship, hamsters are a bit different. Whether or not they can live together depends heavily on the species, their individual temperaments, and how they’re introduced. In many cases, housing two hamsters together can lead to stress, fighting, and even serious injury - so it’s important to know what you’re getting into.Species Matters MostThe first thing to consider is what type of hamster you have. Different species have very different social behaviors.Syrian hamsters (also known as golden hamsters) are strictly solitary. They must be housed alone. Even siblings raised together will usually become aggressive once they reach maturity. If housed with another hamster, they’re likely to fight - and those fights can be severe. Syrian hamsters should never share a cage.Dwarf hamsters (such as Roborovski, Campbell’s dwarf, and Winter White hamsters) are more social and can sometimes live in pairs or small groups, but not always. Even among social species, fights can and do happen.Chinese hamsters are often mistaken for dwarfs due to their small size, but behaviorally they’re closer to Syrians. They tend to be territorial and are usually better off living alone.

What Your Cat’s Tail Is Trying to Tell You

Cats might not bark, beg, or break into full-body wiggles like their canine counterparts—but don’t be fooled. Just because they’re quiet doesn’t mean they’re not communicating. In fact, cats are constantly sending messages—you just need to know where to look.And one of the most expressive tools in your cat’s emotional toolkit? Their tails.That slow swish, sudden flick, or question-mark curl isn’t random—it’s body language at its finest. Your cat’s tail acts like a little emotional antenna, broadcasting signals about their mood, their focus, and whether or not you should risk petting that belly.Whether you’re a lifelong cat parent or new to the world of feline mysteries, understanding tail talk can deepen your bond and help you avoid some unexpected scratches (or side-eye).So, what exactly is your cat trying to say with their tail?Let’s break it down.

Tips to Identifying and Staving Off Feline Dementia

The actual cause of this affliction may not be known, but info to date suggests there are a number of steps you can take to keep your kitty mentally healthy.