Your Dog Will Love These Easy DIY Pumpkin Oat Treats

DIY Dog Treats: How to Make Easy-Peasy Dog Treats [Video]

Look what Oscar and I whipped up in the Canine Kitchen (better known as Oscar’s Nom Nom Hut)? These Easy Peasy Dog Treats are a breeze to make and eat! Whether you’re a baking pro or newbie, we’ve got a recipe for you – the Easy Peasy Dog Treat Recipe. The name gives it away. It’s super easy to make and you’ve probably got all of the ingredients in your kitchen already. Not only that, but you can follow along as I make it with our DIY Dog Treats video series. The Easy Peasy Dog Treat Recipe is the go-to homemade dog cookie in our house. Perfect for a baker of any skill level, this one’s sure to be a favorite in your home as well. Hope you enjoy the video below, and feel free to leave comments or let us know any other recipes you’d like to see us make. And don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel, so you’ll always catch our newest pet-related videos.

World's Tallest and Smallest Dogs Meet Up for a Playdate

Last month, a pair of pooches from America, the world’s tallest and smallest dog, met up for a playdate. Reginald, a seven-year-old Great Dane from Idaho, and Pearl, a four-year-old chihuahua from Florida, are both Guinness World Record holders. Reggie is the tallest male dog in the world, measuring 3 ft 3 in (1.007 m) at the withers. But his new best friend Pearl holds the title of the world’s smallest dog, standing at just 3.59 in (9.14 cm). Pearl comes from a long line of short dogs. Her aunt Milly, a previous record holder in the same category, was also under 4 inches tall.Guinness arranged the two-day meetup between Pearl and Reginald at his home in Idaho Falls as part of its 70th-anniversary festivities. Pearl’s owner, Vanesa Sempler, held the world’s smallest pooch while Reggie sniffed her for the first time. Even though Pearl loves dogs, even bigger ones, Sempler admitted she was anxious because of Reggie’s size.“For me, (it) was a huge, pleasant surprise from day one because Reggie is like Pearl, in a bigger size. He is so gentle, so friendly,” she said. While Reggie was friendly and gentle towards Pearl, his perplexity about her tiny size was obvious. “He was like very cautious, like a little anxious,” said Reggie’s owner, Sam Johnson Reiss. “He was very careful, like he didn’t step on her or anything, or anything crazy. He was just very aware that she was there.”Once the pooches sniffed one another, they began to explore the house together and then went out into the backyard to run around. It’s hard to believe that Reggie was the runt of the litter, but that hasn’t stopped Sam from falling in love with the tiny, spotted Great Dane puppy. Sam, who had never owned a big dog before, enjoyed watching Reggie grow from a pint-sized puppy to a loving, gentle giant. “From the time I got him until he was about, I’d say a year and a half, he just grew, like, just non-stop growth. Everybody was like, he’s really tall. We’ve never met another dog that’s taller than him,” said Sam. Although Reggie is the tallest living male dog in the world, he’s still a puppy at heart. “Reginald’s personality is deceived by his name. It makes him seem more regal or proper, but he’s just a big baby.” Despite the huge size difference, Pearl and Reggie have a lot in common. “They have more similarities than differences,” said Sam, and Vanesa agreed, saying: “They are very similar in a lot of ways. Because he’s a baby!”“He acts like a human toddler. He’s super playful, very vocal, very much, he’ll tell you what he wants when he wants it.” Vanesa said Pearl is the same. “She’s really demanding. She’s strong and opinionated, and she can tell you what she wants.”There might have been a bit of possessiveness over toys and beds, but Reggie and Pearl had a great time during their two-day meetup. “I think she found a good friend,” said Vanesa. Once the dogs were tired from playing, Vanesa and Sam shared another moment bonding about their love for their pups. While it’s unclear whether Pearl and Reggie will meet again, their owners expect them to stay friends forever.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Should You Bathe Your Guinea Pig? A Quick Guide to Guinea Pig Hygiene

One common question new guinea pig owners often ask is: Should I bathe my guinea pig? The short answer is probably not.Unlike dogs or humans, guinea pigs don’t require regular baths and it can even be harmful, if it’s not done correctly. So here's what you need to know about guinea pig hygiene. 

Why Crufts and Westminster Will Never See a Dog Named Rover

Ever wonder how those pure-bred dogs got their lofty names?

Missing Dachshund Found Safe after Surviving 529 Days in the Wild

After surviving more than 500 days in the wild, Valerie, an eight-pound miniature dachshund, has finally been safely rescued and reunited with her owners. The tiny pooch went missing on Kangaroo Island in South Australia in November 2023 while vacationing with her owners. Conservationists have rescued the little runaway who evaded capture for so long. “Kangala Wildlife Rescue is overjoyed to announce the successful rescue of Valerie,” the organization shared on TikTok.“After weeks of tireless effort by Kangala Wildlife Rescue volunteers and partner organizations, Valerie has been safely rescued and is fit and well,” the group said. “We are absolutely thrilled and deeply relieved that Valerie is finally safe and able to begin her transition back to her loving parents, Josh and Georgia.”The cute pup made global headlines after the rescue organization shared her story on Instagram in March. In the post, the Kangala Wildlife Rescue said that they have been looking for Valerie for months, ever since she escaped while on holiday with her owners at Stokes Bay. This remote part of Kangaroo Island is known for its rugged terrain and wildlife. Valerie's owners and the locals searched for the pooch for days after she went missing, but to no avail. While Josh and Georgia eventually abandoned the search to return home, the Kangala Wildlife Rescue volunteers continued looking for the dog.“No one believed that a little dachshund like Valerie would survive alone in the wild, but more than 12 months after she went missing, regular reports started coming in about a dachshund with a pink collar being seen about 15 kilometers from Stokes Bay,” the rescue wrote on social media. “Based on firsthand accounts and video evidence, we now know that Valerie is alive. She runs at the first sight of humans or vehicles, and despite the best efforts of dedicated island locals, Valerie has been impossible to catch.” After several reported sightings of Valerie, the rescue team was on a mission to reunite the lost pooch with her owners. Even with the help of surveillance equipment, traps, and lures, the volunteers have spent over 1,000 hours and have traveled more than 3,000 miles searching for Valerie.Recently, the rescue team began tracking and analyzing Valerie’s movement to create a plan to lure her into a secure location. The team used treats and toys from Valerie’s home to coax her into a trap. After several failed rescue attempts and one run-in with a group of possums, the rescue mission was a success. “There were many challenging moments over the past month, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who played a part in bringing Valerie home,” the group said. Valerie’s resourcefulness and resilience have surprised her owners, who have lost hope of seeing their beloved canine ever again. “We thought, instead of her surviving out in the wild, maybe someone had kind of adopted her, or she was hanging out with some other dogs and getting food because she was an absolute little princess.”Rescues and experts believe that Valerie may have eaten roadkill, dam water, or perhaps received some food from the locals. According to Poul McGreevy, a professor at the University of Sydney's Veterinary School, dogs are the greatest opportunists in the animal kingdom, and dachshunds, like all other dogs, are extremely resourceful. “Valerie’s story is a reminder that hope and determination can lead to incredible results,” shared Kangala Wildlife Rescue in a post. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Does Clicker Training Actually Work?

Training your furry friend can feel overwhelming and confusing, especially if you're met with inconsistent results.Among the myriad of options, clicker training is a firm favorite among many pet owners but does it really work? Let’s take a look. Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you. 

Border Collies Cut Bird Strikes at West Virginia Airport by 70%

Team of Hercules and Ned keep flights on time and passengers safe, by keeping area flocks in check.

Working from Home? Electronic Pet Toys Are Your New Best Friend.

(photo credit: Elena Yakimova / shutterstock.com)Like many of us who work from home, the call of the wild (our pets) is never far away. Whether it’s an urgent potty break, a quick stroll around the block, a morning snack, responding to a perceived emergency or just a little snuggle, they sure can eat into our productivity.Now, we all know that nothing beats one-on-one time with the fur kids but sometimes duty calls and we just can’t drop everything to be available. Which leads to… wouldn’t we all love to find a way to keep the little guy entertained and busy doing anything other than scratching at the office door or trying to climb onto our lap while we’re on a Zoom call? C’mon, be honest.The good news is that there is relief in sight and it comes in the form of the wide range of electronic toys now available to engage your pet in something other than you. They’re easy to activate, long-lasting and all you have to do is fire them up and let your cat or dog do the rest.

California Tries to Crack Down on Puppy Sales

Recently, some states, like New York, have taken action to protect pets and pet parents by banning the sale of certain animals in pet stores. And other states, like Connecticut, have proposed similar laws. But California has had a law in place since 2019 that prohibits pet stores from selling dogs that were commercially bred—a law passed in an effort to tackle puppy mills. Now lawmakers in the state are trying to go a step further by stopping the sale of puppies that come from mass breeders located outside of California.

3 Heartwarming Stories of Rescue Dogs Finding Their Forever Homes

Every year, countless dogs find themselves in shelters, each with a unique story and a longing for a loving home.Luckily, many of these pets find their forever home and today we're going to take a look at three of these heartwarming stories.

How Do I Know if My Cat Has a Fever?

It’s a moment that triggers worry in any cat parent – when you’re snuggling with your kitty and petting their soft fur, only to notice your best friend is feeling a little warmer than usual. Could it be a fever? A fever in cats, like humans, is a natural defense mechanism where the body elevates the body temperature to fight off an underlying issue. While it may be a minor concern that will resolve with time, it could also be a sign of something more serious. This guide will walk you through the warning signs, potential causes, and most importantly, how to help your cat when that worrying warmth appears. Spotting the Signs of a Fever in CatsIt’s a common belief that a warm nose or forehead signals a fever in pets, but when it comes to cats, this isn’t always a reliable way to check. In fact, relying on this alone could mean missing important signs that your cat isn’t feeling well. We need to tune into a broader range of warning signs, including changes in behavior or physical symptoms. Here are some key signs to watch out for: Lethargy and Reduced Activity: You may notice your typically energetic kitty is spending more time sleeping or showing less interest in their favorite toys. They may seem “out of it,” making them less inclined to jump, explore, or engage in their usual games and activities. Loss of Appetite (Anorexia): If your cat turns their nose up at their meals, especially if they are usually a big foodie, it is a significant red flag. A fever can often suppress their appetite, even leading them to turn down their favorite treats. Decreased Water Intake: While it may seem counterintuitive, a cat with a fever might actually drink less. Cats are prone to dehydration regularly, and a lack of proper hydration can quickly turn into a serious concern. It’s essential to monitor their water bowl and overall fluid intake. Hiding or Withdrawing: When cats feel unwell, they often seek a quiet, out-of-the-way spot for solace. If your usually social cat suddenly starts hiding under furniture or in dark corners, it could be a sign that they are not feeling well. Rapid Breathing or Panting: Unlike dogs, cats don’t typically pant to cool down. When a cat is panting, it’s usually a sign of trouble. An increased breathing rate or, more concerningly, open-mouthed breathing may be a sign of pain, discomfort, or even fever. It’s crucial to remember that panting could also signal serious respiratory issues, and it always warrants a call to the vet. Shivering: Just like us, cats can shiver when they have a fever, even if the room temperature is at a comfortable level. This is their body’s way of trying to generate heat. Changes in Grooming Habits: Cats are meticulous with their grooming routine, so if that starts to drop, it could be a sign that they are feeling “off.” A lack of grooming can lead to a matted or unkempt coat. On the other hand, some cats may over-groom a particular area due to localized pain or discomfort, causing irritation or bald spots. Vomiting or Diarrhea: While not a direct indicator of a fever, many illnesses that trigger a rise in body temperature are also associated with gastrointestinal problems. Remember, these symptoms may indicate various other health problems in your cat, not just a fever. Observing these signs is the first step, but to get a definitive diagnosis and a plan of action to help your cat feel better, you will need to contact your veterinarian. They can run the necessary tests to better understand what is happening and how to help. How to Take Your Cat’s Temperature Let’s be honest, the thought of taking your cat’s temperature may feel a little daunting, especially if this is your first time. Luckily, it doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. With some planning, a calm approach, and a few simple steps, you can make this process as easy as possible for you and your kitty. Here’s a step-by-step guide to taking your cat’s temperature rectally, which is generally considered the best approach for an accurate measurement: Gather Your Supplies: You’ll need a digital thermometer (ideally one designed for pets, as they often have flexible tips and faster readings), a small amount of lubricant like petroleum jelly, and some high-value treats and/or a willing helper to provide a gentle distraction. Create a Calm Environment: Choose a quiet, comfortable space where your cat feels relatively secure. Avoid busy, noisy, or high-traffic areas that could increase their anxiety. If your cat is already stressed from the environment, the experience will only escalate it. Position and/or Restraint: Gently position your cat, either standing or lying on their side. If your cat tends to be wiggly or unsure about this process, using a towel wrapped around the body may be helpful to keep them secure and comfortable. Gentle Insertion: Apply a small amount of lubricant to the tip of the digital thermometer. Gently lift your cat’s tail and carefully insert the lubricated thermometer about one inch into their rectum. Hold the thermometer in place until it beeps, indicating the reading is complete. This usually only takes a few seconds with a digital thermometer. Clean-Up: Once you have the reading, gently remove the thermometer and clean it thoroughly with soap and water or rubbing alcohol. Reward: Immediately offer your cat a special treat and plenty of praise. This is an essential step as it will help to create a positive association with the experience, so they are less stressed the next time their temperature is taken. A word of caution: avoid using human oral thermometers on your cat. They are not designed for rectal use and can be inaccurate, possibly causing injury. While rectal thermometers are generally preferred for their accuracy, other options are available. For example, ear thermometers are a good solution for cats who refuse to have their temperature taken the traditional way. The technical use and specific model may influence the accuracy, but they can still provide a useful indication with proper use and calibration. Now that you have the temperature, it’s important to understand what those numbers mean. A healthy adult cat's normal body temperature range is typically between 100.5 and 12.5-degrees Fahrenheit. A fever in cats is generally considered to be a temperature above 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit.

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.

How Pets Boost Your Immune System?

Living with pets offers many health benefits. From lower blood pressure and reduced risk of heart disease to better mental health, owning a pet can be a key to a healthier you. However, that’s not all; research has shown that living with a cat or a dog can enhance your immune system. One of the strongest scientific arguments that supports the idea that pets boost immunity is based on the “hygiene hypothesis.” Based on this theory, early exposure to a diverse range of microbes, often found on pets and in outdoor environments, helps the developing immune system to distinguish between harmful and harmless agents.  Some scientists believe that without this exposure, the immune system may become hyper-reactive, increasing the likelihood of allergies and autoimmune conditions. A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that children who grew up on traditional farms or in households with multiple pets had lower rates of childhood asthma and allergies compared to children who grew up in petless urban settings.Another study has discovered that a child’s allergy risk at ages seven and nine lowers proportionally with the number of pets that were kept at home in early childhood. “It’s not a universal cure-all, and every time I give a lecture on this, someone goes ‘Well I grew up on a farm and I’ve got allergies’, but we know that if you grow up physically interacting with farm animals, you have about 50% reduction in your likelihood of developing asthma or allergies,” said Jack Gilbert, a professor at the University of California San Diego.Research also showed that some bacterial strains found on pets get transferred to their owners through proximity or touch. While this may seem unappealing to some people, it’s a type of natural microbiome exposure that can shape the immune system, particularly in early life. Dogs, more than cats, carry dirt and bacteria from the outside, broadening the household’s microbiome. Gilbert believes that our immune systems have evolved to be stimulated by the microbiome pets carry. Although these microbes are not with us all the time, our immune system recognizes the familiar signals as they come through, which helps the immune system develop in the right direction. “Over many millennia, the human immune system got used to seeing dog, horse, and cow bacteria. And so when it sees those things, it triggers beneficial immune development. It knows what to do,” said Gilbert.Another way pets may boost our immune systems is through stress regulation. Research has shown that chronic stress can undermine the immune system by elevating cortisol levels. In turn, a weakened immune system lowers the body’s ability to fight off diseases.  Numerous studies found that interacting with pets, whether it’s walking a dog or stroking a cat, lowers cortisol levels and boosts oxytocin. This improves mental health and also supports a better immune response.Owning a pet, especially a dog, often leads to increased physical activity. Adults should get at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week, and dog owners are more likely to achieve or exceed this objective.Exercise, in turn, has a beneficial effect on your immune health. It’s well-documented that exercise improves circulation, reduces inflammation, and even slows age-related immune decline. This is amazing news for pet parents, and new research continues to show that living with pets throughout our lives can be beneficial for our immune health and overall well-being. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Is a Cat or a Dog the Right Pet for You?

Choosing between a cat and a dog is one of the most common dilemmas for prospective pet owners. Both animals offer companionship, lots of joy, and unconditional love, but their personalities, care needs, and lifestyle compatibility can be hugely different. Here are important things to consider before making your decision. 

Can Dogs Get Dry Eye? You Betcha!

Trendy New Bicycle Baskets Replace the Backpack for Pets

(photo credit: Stas Walenga / shutterstock.com)Not since the formidable Miss Gulch rode away with wee Toto in tow in that classic Wizard of Oz movie, has the bicycle basket enjoyed such a newfound following. For those conscious of the environment, cycling is a great alternative to hopping into a car to run errands while those who love to push the pedals toward a healthier lifestyle, swear by hitting the open road on a two-wheeler. Now, many of these same people are pet owners and when it comes to heading out without the little guy, it doesn’t have to mean leaving him at home.Today’s bicycle baskets offer a wide range of options that are sturdy, lightweight and perfectly sized to hold any small dog that’s keen to join in on the outdoor adventure. The trick is to find the right basket carrier to suit your needs.What to look for in a bicycle basketThis is an area where one-size-fits-all couldn’t be further from the truth. When it comes to investing in a mounted basket for your pooch, you need to ensure that it’s designed to hold his weight and size. Purchasing something too compact is not only dangerous for you both but downright uncomfortable for him to travel any distance.Comfort is key and seeking out a basket option with a solid, flat base is important. Your pet is going to want to sit while taking in the sights and sounds and if the basket base shifts and folds up on him, he’s going to be inclined to want to jump out.Which leads to safety. You want a basket that not only has a sturdy mounting system that won’t wobble on your bike handles but that also has the ability to secure your pet in place with a leash clip or over-top covering. Distractions such as other dogs, squirrels, or birds can result in him trying to dart. Make sure he can’t.Construction is important. You want a lightweight option that is not only durable but also weather-resistant to protect your pet from the elements while ventilating to keep him from overheating on those warm summer outings.

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.

Why is My Cat Not Grooming?

It’s a subtle shift that’s often easy to miss in the busy hustle and bustle of our days, but when your cat suddenly stops meticulously grooming themselves, it could be a red flag that something’s happening that requires your attention. For cats, grooming isn’t merely about maintaining a pristine appearance; it’s essential to their health, hygiene, and overall well-being. A sudden change in this self-care behavior could indicate anything from mild discomfort to a serious underlying medical concern.This post will share the reasons why your cat might be grooming less, what steps you can take to make them feel more comfortable, and, most importantly, when it’s time to seek immediate professional veterinary help. Why Grooming MattersFor cats, grooming serves many key functions, beginning with basic hygiene. Through their meticulous licking, cats remove loose fur, dirt, and any debris clinging to their coat, keeping themselves both clean and comfortable.Beyond just cleanliness, grooming helps to regulate their body temperature. Cats can use evaporative cooling to help dissipate heat and cool themselves down by spreading saliva across their fur. This is especially important during the warmer summer days.It’s also fundamental for skin health, as their tongues help to distribute natural oils. This keeps their skin moisturized while preventing dryness and irritation.Additionally, grooming can be a powerful social tool. When cats groom one another, it’s a way of communicating affection, trust, and social bonding. Psychologically, self-grooming has been shown to be calming, a routine behavior cats often use to reduce stress and anxiety.A healthy cat will typically groom themselves several times throughout the day, dedicating considerable time to cleaning every part of their bodies. Their barbed tongues act like tiny combs that untangle fur and remove debris. Their teeth also help with more stubborn knots. Finally, their paws are often moistened with saliva and used as a washcloth to help with harder-to-reach spots like the face and behind the ears. Causes for Decreased GroomingWhen your otherwise meticulously clean cat suddenly starts to neglect their grooming routine, it’s a red flag that you don’t want to ignore. This change can stem from many factors, ranging from environmental stressors to severe underlying medical conditions. Understanding these potential causes is the first step in getting the help and relief they need.Medical reasonsOften, a change in grooming habits is a direct symptom of feelings of pain or discomfort, making it difficult to physically move in the ways necessary to groom themselves. If a cat is hurting, the last thing they’ll want to do is bend, stretch, or twist into the various necessary positions. This pain can manifest in many ways: Arthritis or joint pain, especially common in older cats, can make movement painful.Dental problems like gum disease, tooth resorption, or abscesses can cause severe pain in the mouth or jaw, making licking unbearable.Spinal issues or injuries might restrict flexibility and cause discomfort when trying to reach certain areas.Abdominal pain or organ issues can make a cat feel unwell, leading to a disinterest in self-care and grooming.Wounds, abscesses, or skin infections are often painful to the touch, causing a cat to avoid grooming the affected area, or even grooming altogether due to generalized discomfort.Beyond localized pain, a cat’s grooming habits can suffer due to various underlying illnesses. Systemic diseases can leave your cat unwell, leading to lethargy or a lack of energy for typical daily activities (like grooming). Possible illnesses include: Kidney disease, which can cause nausea and weakness. Diabetes, leading to dehydration and lethargy. Hyperthyroidism, which can cause weight loss and muscle weakness despite an increased appetite.Various forms of cancer, which can cause widespread discomfort and poor health. Simple fevers or general feelings of unwell from a common infection can also impact your cat’s ability to groom. Obesity can also significantly impact your cat’s ability to move as needed for grooming. Overweight cats often struggle to reach certain areas of their body, particularly their back and hindquarters, making thorough grooming impossible. The extra weight can also contribute to existing joint pain, further limiting their mobility and desire to groom.If your cat is experiencing nausea or gastrointestinal problems, they will likely feel unwell enough to decrease their appetite and cause lethargy, leading to a disinterest in grooming.Finally, neurological issues can directly impact a cat’s ability to groom. Cognitive decline in older cats, similar to dementia in humans, can lead to a forgetfulness of routine behaviors, including grooming. If your cat has suffered a stroke or other neurological events, it may affect their motor skills and coordination, making the precise movements required for grooming difficult or impossible.Environmental and Behavioral FactorsWhile medical conditions are the most common cause, a cat’s emotional state and environment also play a crucial role in their grooming habits. Stress and anxiety can significantly impact normal behaviors, including grooming. Cats are creatures of habit, and disruptions to their routine can be incredibly upsetting. Common stressors include:Significant changes in routine, such as introducing a new pet, a new baby, or moving to a new home.Loud noises, home renovations, or ongoing conflict in the home can create a constant state of unease. Separation anxiety can also manifest in neglect of self-care. Prolonged stress can profoundly impact a cat’s overall well-being, leading them to neglect self-care activities like grooming.Similarly, depression or grief can cause a cat to withdraw and lose interest in their usual routines. This can occur after the loss of a companion animal or a human family member, or following other major life changes that deeply impact their emotional state.Aging naturally brings a decline in various bodily functions. Even without specific diseases, older cats often experience behavior changes. They may experience:A general decline in energy levels, making the effort of grooming less appealing.The onset of arthritis and other age-related discomforts make the physical movements required to groom difficult.Cognitive dysfunction, as mentioned earlier, can also contribute to forgetfulness or inability to perform grooming routines.Finally, while it’s less common for a prolonged failure to keep up with grooming, extreme heat or humidity can impact the thoroughness of a cat’s self-care. In very warm conditions, a cat may focus more on cooling behaviors, such as lying on cool surfaces or panting, rather than engaging in regular grooming sessions. However, this is unlikely to cause them to completely stop grooming unless accompanied by other symptoms.