Experts Warn That Back-to-School Can Cause Depression in Pets

5 Tips for Helping Your Socially Anxious Dog

Just like humans, dogs can suffer from social anxiety. Whether it stems from a traumatic experience, lack of early socialization, or a naturally shy temperament, social anxiety in dogs can manifest as trembling, barking, growling, hiding, or even aggression when faced with unfamiliar people, animals, or environments. If your furry friend struggles in social settings, here are five practical tips to help them build confidence and feel more at ease.

How To Replace Your Pet's Fave (Worn Out) Blanket with Something New?

(photo credit: Gladskikh Tatiana / shutterstock.com)Let’s be honest here. Every dog or cat owner will have a stash of dog blankets in their arsenal of pet accessories. Why? Because they’re the easiest way to protect our soft furnishings from becoming coated in fluffy fur and doggy drool. And they’re sized perfectly for whipping off to reveal that pristine sofa or chair when company arrives.But we’re not talking about those plush cover-up blankets we all have tucked away in our closets. We’re talking about those comforting remnants that belong to your dog and seem to travel with him around your home. Like a child with a security blanket, our pets can often attach themselves to something soft and portable that brings them immediate comfort throughout the day.The “why” for this behavior can include his strong sense of smell and how a familiar scent provides him with comfort and reassurance when new or unsettling circumstances arise. Or, he could use it as a teething device when younger and simply has not outgrown the habit. It could also be down to your dog’s need to nest or burrow and a blanket allows him to flip it around and bury himself down under where he feels safe and cozy. And lastly, his favorite blanket can provide him with warmth and a sense of well-being that allows him to relax and feel at ease within his surroundings – especially when not in his home base.So, what do you do when said security blanket desperately needs to be washed? You know it will remove the scent he loves and (temporarily) his access to this comfort source. You plan for it.

Research Aims to Uncover the Effects of Small Pets on Human Well-Being

Many articles have been published about the benefits of pets on mental health and overall happiness, but they’re usually focused on the perks of sharing your home with a cat or dog. Well, the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) wants to change that. They announced a grant that will allow researchers at the University of Liverpool to look into the impacts of small animals as pets. Their goal is to find out if small pets have an effect on people’s well-being, too.

3 Fun Games to Keep Your Dog Cool This Summer

Long walks and high-energy fetch sessions are generally off the cards when temperatures soar, but that doesn’t mean playtime has to take a backseat.Here are three fun, simple games that help your dog stay active and cool when the weather’s blazing.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you. 

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.

Are Weighted Blankets Good for Dogs?

Weighted blankets have become popular for their ability to reduce stress and promote relaxation in humans. These blankets apply gentle, even pressure, mimicking the feeling of a hug or deep touch therapy. Many pet owners wonder if weighted blankets can provide similar benefits for their dogs. While some dogs may find them comforting, there are also potential risks to consider. Here’s what you need to know.Benefits of Weighted Blankets for DogsAnxiety ReliefDogs that experience anxiety from thunderstorms, fireworks, separation, or other stressors may benefit from the gentle compression of a weighted blanket. Similar to a Thundershirt, the even pressure can create a sense of security, helping to soothe nervous or anxious dogs.

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.

Simple Tricks to Get Your Pet to Take Their Meds

Let’s face it, for most pet parents, the moment the veterinarian prescribes medication for your beloved dog or cat, a little voice inside you whispers (or screams), “Oh no!” You’re not alone! Many of us (myself included, in the past) have engaged in a strategic chase around the living room, a tiny pill clutched in our hand. But rest assured, it doesn’t have to be that difficult. While it can feel like navigating an impossible challenge, there are effective and less stressful ways to help your pets take their medicine, whether it comes in the form of a pill, a liquid, or a powder. In this post, I am going to share some simple tricks and techniques I have learned that have proven to be effective in my house. By mastering these tricks, you can set yourself up for success, making prioritizing your pet’s health and well-being easier than ever. Why Is Giving Medication to a Pet So Challenging?Have you ever wondered why your sweet and loving best friend suddenly becomes a master of evasion the moment medication comes into the picture? There are several reasons why our pets put up such a fight. Taste and Smell: Many medications simply don’t taste or smell very good to our pets. Some can even be quite bitter or have an unfamiliar smell that triggers a natural dislike and aversion. Instincts: Our pets are descendants of their wild ancestors, who were hardwired with instincts to help them survive. For this reason, they are naturally wary of anything new, different, or unusual in their routine, especially something offered by hand. Negative Past Experiences: If your pet has had a negative experience with medications in the past, such as force or discomfort, this can create a lasting association of fear and resistance with the taking of medication in general. Stress and Anxiety: The act of being handled or restrained can trigger feelings of stress and anxiety in some animals, making them even less likely to cooperate. Side Effects: It’s important to remember that some medications may cause physical discomfort or side effects. If this is the case, it can make them more reluctant to take that medication again (understandably). As pet parents, dealing with this resistance can be physically and emotionally draining. We want to help our pets feel better, and it can be disheartening when those efforts are met with struggle or upset. But putting ourselves in their shoes for a moment can help us identify the reason why they are so reluctant to take their medications, helping us overcome these hurdles. Setting Yourself Up for Success The process of effectively giving your pet medication starts with careful preparation. Think of it like laying the groundwork for an overall smoother experience. Here are a few things to consider: Communication with Your Vet Before you even attempt to give your pet their medication, make sure you clearly understand your vet's instructions. This includes asking the following questions: Dosage: What is the exact amount of medication you are supposed to give your pet each time?Frequency: How often must the medication be given throughout the day?Timing: Does the medication need to be given at a specific time? Does it need to be given with food or on an empty stomach? If you have multiple medications, can they be given at the same time? Don’t hesitate to ask your vet what formulations and options are available. Every pet is different, and you may find that yours is more accepting of one form of medication than another. For example, there may be a flavored liquid instead of a pill, or even alternatives to the medication altogether. Ask about any side effects your pet may experience and how best to manage them. Knowing this in advance can help you get relief for your pet far quicker, as you can respond immediately versus trying to determine if the side effect is, in fact, associated with the medication and how to address it. Most importantly, remember this golden rule: never change the dosage or stop giving medication without discussing it with your vet (unless, of course, you are facing a severe reaction). Some medicines, like antibiotics, must be given for a set length of time to be effective. Stopping a medication because your pet appears to be getting better could set them back long-term. Be Calm and OrganizedThe environment and your energy will both play a significant role in your pet’s willingness to cooperate. Choose a calm, quiet, and familiar space in your home where your pet will feel safe and secure. Where possible, try to avoid any distractions or interruptions. Before introducing your pet into the equation, take time to gather all the needed supplies. This includes the medication itself, any treats you plan to use, and applicators like oral syringes if required. Having all of these items within reach will keep the process as quick and efficient as possible, helping to reduce your pet’s stress. When gathering them for medication time, avoid approaching them in a rushed or stressed manner, as they will likely pick up on your emotions. Instead, try to stay calm and offer a reassuring presence to calm any fears or concerns they may have. The Art of PillingWhen it comes to giving your pet pills, the goal is to make the process as stress-free and palatable as possible. Luckily, there are several clever strategies you can use to make the process quicker and easier for everyone involved. The Pill Pocket One of the most popular and often successful tricks is using “pill pockets.” These are commercially available treats designed with a hollow center to conceal a pill. The idea being that the pet is so excited to take the treat that they don’t even notice they are taking a pill at the same time. There are many different brands and flavors available, depending on your pet’s preferences, such as the Presidio Pill Buddy Naturals, which comes in a tempting “Tender Grilled Duck” flavor, or the popular salmon flavour of Greenies Feline Pill Pockets. An interesting product, and a spin on the “pill pocket” approach, that we have been using recently in our house is the Vetality Twist + Lick Simpill Gel. This looks almost like a deodorant container, but a flavored gel comes up when you twist the bottom. You simply place the pills in the gel and allow your dog to help themselves. It comes in beef, chicken, and peanut butter. Hiding in FoodAnother common tactic is to hide the pill within a small amount of a soft, highly palatable food. Common choices include tiny pieces of cooked chicken or turkey, a small cube of cheese, a dab of tuna (in water, not oil), or a smear of xylitol-free peanut butter. But don’t overdo it. The goal here is to use only a small amount of the food so you can guarantee that your pet eats the entire medicated portion in one go and doesn’t just eat around the pill. I recommend not hiding pills in your pet’s regular food bowl, especially if they are fighting the pilling process. Otherwise, you may create a negative association with their regular food, leading to them turning their nose up at the usual dinners. One useful trick that helps to leave your pet with a positive feeling about the process is to deliver the medicated food in a “treat sandwich” approach. First, give them a piece of the food entirely unmedicated, then a piece containing the pill, and finally another plain piece as a reward.

How to Trim Your Cat’s Nails Safely

Cats are meticulous groomers, usually handling their hygiene like little pros. But there’s one grooming task they can’t quite manage on their own - trimming their nails. While it might feel intimidating at first, regular nail trims are an essential part of feline care. They help prevent painful overgrowth, protect your furniture (and your skin), and support your cat’s overall well-being. With the right approach, trimming your cat’s nails can become a calm, even routine, part of your care routine.Why You Shouldn't Skip Nail Trimming Your cat’s claws serve many purposes - from climbing and scratching to marking territory. But for indoor cats, those claws don’t wear down naturally as they might for outdoor explorers. Left unchecked, nails can grow too long and even curl into the paw pad, which is painful and can lead to infections.Overgrown nails can also get caught in fabric or carpet, causing distress or injury. And of course, sharp claws can mean shredded furniture and surprise scratches during playtime. Regular trims help prevent all of this.How Often Should You Trim?Most indoor cats benefit from a nail trim every 2 to 4 weeks. A good sign it's time? You hear clicking sounds when they walk on hard floors or you see their claws snagging on blankets or upholstery.What You’ll NeedBefore you start, gather your tools:

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.

What Temperature Does My Gecko Need?

Keeping your gecko healthy starts with one of the most important factors in reptile care: temperature. Since geckos are cold-blooded and rely on external heat to regulate their body functions, the wrong temperatures can quickly lead to serious problems. Too cold, and your gecko may become sluggish, stop eating, and face health issues. Too hot, and they can overheat or dehydrate.Here’s a breakdown of what different types of pet geckos need when it comes to temperature.Leopard Gecko Temperature NeedsLeopard Geckos are one of the most popular pet geckos. Native to the dry, rocky regions of Afghanistan and Pakistan, they’re built for warm days and cooler nights.Basking spot: 88–92 °F (31–33 °C)Warm side ambient: ~84 °F (29 °C)Cool side: 75–80 °F (24–27 °C)Nighttime drop: 68–72 °F (20–22 °C)These geckos absorb heat through their bellies, so an under-tank heat mat with a thermostat is usually better than an overhead light. It simulates their natural behavior and avoids stressing them out with too much bright light.

Genetic Research Aims to Improve Health of Working Farm Dogs

While many of us share our lives with our beloved pets, companions who fill our lives and homes with joy, there’s an entire population of dogs whose dedication extends beyond the backyard: the working farm dogs. These unsung heroes of the farming world put in long, hard hours, and just like our own pets, they deserve the best possible care. That’s why a groundbreaking research initiative in New Zealand is making headlines.Scientists are working to unlock the genetic secrets that can improve the health and performance of these working dogs, ultimately leading to a better quality of life. This is being done through a three-year project at Massey University, named “ The Right Dog for the Job.” Supported by industry partners and the Ministry for Primary Industries, the researchers have recently hit a significant milestone: the whole-genome sequencing of 249 dogs. This extensive work and analysis have uncovered a staggering 19 million DNA variations within the sampled population, which include 130 huntaways, 104 heading dogs, and 15 crossbreeds. While the impressively large number of variations may sound complex and overwhelming, the project's ultimate goal is straightforward: to provide farmers and breeders with valuable information to make informed breeding decisions, leading to healthier and more capable work dogs. The research aims to pinpoint genetic variants (differences in DNA sequences) that could impact a dog’s health or ability to perform these demanding jobs. Professor Matt Littlejohn, who leads the research team, explained that while they could make educated guesses about which variants may be present in farm dogs based on their lineage (such as the influence of border collies), the genome sequencing allows them to know for sure. And, as it turns out, it uncovered a few interesting surprises! Two unexpected findings stood out: the prevalence of variants in the CUBN and CLN8 genes. The CUBN variant is linked to vitamin B12 malabsorption, which can lead to serious health problems if left untreated. Thankfully, this condition can be managed with treatment, making this proactive testing a valuable tool. The CLN8 variant, on the other hand, is associated with a severe neurodegenerative disorder causing loss of motor function, seizures, and blindness, often leading to euthanasia. While the percentage of animals carrying this variation wasn’t extremely high (between 2% and 8% of dogs tested), their frequency in New Zealand farm dogs was higher than observed in many other international breeds. It's important to understand that these genetic variants are recessive. This means that a dog must inherit two copies of the muted gene, one from each parent, to develop the associated health issues. Dogs carrying only one copy are known as carriers and don’t show any symptoms themselves. Awareness of which dogs are carrying these variants can help breeders make informed decisions on which dogs are fit for breeding, significantly minimizing the risk of producing puppies suffering from these genetic diseases. This not only improves the health and well-being of individual dogs but also contributes to the overall resilience of these working breeds. In its next stage, the project will involve collecting even more DNA samples and working closely with farmers and veterinarians to gather data on both health and working performance traits. It will also focus on identifying genetic variants unique to New Zealand farm dogs, with the initial findings being genetic variants known from other breeds. The “Right Dog for the Job” project is a testament to the commitment to providing these hard-working animals the best possible quality of life! Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

How to Choose the Right Food for Your Cat

Choosing the right food for your cat can be a confusing task, especially with the endless options on the store shelves. However, the key to a healthy, happy cat starts with understanding their unique nutritional needs and how to meet them. Here's a guide to help you make the best dietary choices for your feline friend.

Rare Video of a Tuckered Out Border Collie Captures Hearts

TikTok video captures the moment exhausted Border Collie, Storm, nods off after lengthy hike. An absolute rarity for this breed!

How to Safely Welcome a Skittish Rescue Cat into Your Home

Why Does My Dog Stare at Me All the Time?

Dogs are sweet, loving, and endlessly entertaining companions - but sometimes, they do things that leave us scratching our heads. One of the most common (and slightly mysterious) behaviors is staring. You might be lounging on the couch or walking around the house, only to look up and find your pup locking eyes with you, completely still and focused. So naturally, you might wonder: Why does my dog stare at me so much?The answer? It’s not as strange as it seems. In fact, that steady gaze is usually a sign of something sweet, practical, or occasionally, a little cheeky.They’re Trying to Tell You SomethingOne of the main reasons dogs stare at us is simple: they’re trying to communicate. Since they can’t speak, dogs rely on body language and facial expressions to get their point across - and eye contact is a big part of that.If your dog is staring at you, they might be saying:“Is it dinner time yet?”“Can we go outside?”“I’d love some cuddles now, please.”Dogs are incredibly good at making connections between cause and effect. If staring at you has previously resulted in a treat, a walk, or even just your attention, they'll remember - and they’ll try it again.It’s a Sign of Love and BondingBeyond simple communication, eye contact between dogs and humans can actually be a bonding behavior. Research has shown that when dogs and their humans look into each other’s eyes, both experience a boost in oxytocin - the “love hormone” that helps us feel connected and emotionally close.This is the same hormone that strengthens the bond between parents and babies. So, when your dog gives you that soft, lingering look, they might not be asking for anything at all - they’re just sharing a moment of connection.They’re Watching for CuesDogs are excellent observers. They notice our routines and learn what specific actions mean: picking up keys might mean a car ride, reaching for a leash could mean walk time, and heading into the kitchen might mean food is on the way.That intense stare? It could mean your dog is simply trying to anticipate what comes next. This is especially true for intelligent, highly trainable breeds like Border Collies, German Shepherds, or Poodles, who tend to watch their humans closely for signals and commands.Sometimes, It’s About SnacksLet’s be honest - dogs are opportunists. If your pup tends to stare at you while you’re eating, cooking, or holding food, they’re probably just hoping you’ll share. Even if you’ve never fed them from the table, dogs know that humans equal food. And if you’ve ever slipped them a bite? You’ve created a hopeful little habit that might just involve a lot of staring.And Sometimes, It’s Just for AttentionDogs are quick learners. If your dog stares at you and it gets your attention - whether that’s a pet, a kind word, or a treat - they’ll keep doing it. From their perspective, it works. So, why stop?When to Be ConcernedWhile most dog staring is completely normal, there are exceptions. If your dog is staring and also seems disoriented, confused, or is acting strangely, it could be a sign of a medical issue, such as a neurological condition or canine cognitive dysfunction (the dog equivalent of dementia). In those cases, it’s important to check in with your vet.ConclusionSo the next time your dog gives you that intense gaze, take a moment to appreciate it. Whether they’re asking for something, waiting for direction, or just showing love, that eye contact is one of the ways your dog connects with you. And in most cases, it’s just another reminder of how closely they’re tuned into your world.

Don’t Wait and See: When Your Hiding Cat Is a Sign of Trouble

Have you ever returned home from a long day at work only to find your cat squeezed into a dusty corner of the closet or peeking out from under the couch, refusing even to come out when they’re called? It’s easy to laugh it off and think, “My cat’s just being a cat.” But is that all that’s happening? While it’s true that cats love a good hiding spot, a cat who is suddenly or persistently hiding is often trying to tell you something important. Their disappearance is more than just enjoying some “me time,” it can be a vital clue that there is something “off” in terms of their physical or emotional well-being. In this post, we’ll explore the different reasons your cat may be hiding, from stress in their home environment to a serious medical issue, so you can determine if your cat’s newest behavior quirk is a normal response to things in their life or a cry for help. Why Cats HideHiding is an instinctual behavior for cats, rooted in their evolutionary history as both predators and prey. A cat might be in a playful mood, hiding to pounce on a toy or an unsuspecting household member. Our cats love sneaking up on our playful pup, Lucifer. They may also seek out a hiding spot for a quiet nap away from the hustle and bustle of a busy family household. This is the normal side of hiding, and it’s a sign that a cat feels secure and comfortable enough to relax in their environment. However, there are also times when your cat’s hiding may be a warning sign of an underlying problem. In these cases, the only way to help your cat feel more comfortable in their home is to first address the cause. Emotional and Behavioral Reasons for Hiding A cat’s hiding can be a coping mechanism or a response to stress, anxiety, or fear. Changes in the home, such as the arrival of a new baby, the introduction of a new pet, or even just the presence of guests visiting, can feel overwhelming. Loud noises, such as fireworks, thunderstorms, or home renovations, can also send a cat running for cover. In these cases, hiding is their way of managing their sensory overload and reclaiming a sense of control over their environment. Hiding as a Medical Red FlagA sudden change in a cat’s behavior, such as hiding when they are usually social, is often a significant red flag. This can signal a serious medical problem requiring a visit to your veterinarian. A cat in pain or discomfort will often retreat to a secluded spot to avoid being touched or to protect a sensitive area. This could be due to anything from a painful tooth to arthritis or an internal injury. Similarly, a sick cat will instinctively hide, a behavior that dates back to their wild ancestors hiding any signs of vulnerability from predators. Contact your veterinarian if your cat is hiding and also showing other symptoms, like: Loss of appetite Changes in litter box habits Lethargy Uncharacteristic aggression when approachedAs cats age, they may also start to hide more due to a decline in their senses or because of conditions like feline cognitive dysfunction ( dementia in cats), which can cause disorientation and confusion. It’s critical to remember that cats are masters of hiding their illnesses, which means you must closely monitor any changes in their behavior. If you are concerned about your cat’s well-being or suspect there could be a medical issue at play, get help as soon as possible. Waiting to see if they “snap out of it” can be dangerous. When to Reach Out to Your Veterinarian It can be hard to know when hiding crosses the line from a simple behavioral quirk to a serious or potentially life-threatening medical concern. While it’s always best to follow your gut, here is a checklist of warning signs that can help you recognize when it’s time to call the vet and put an end to the “wait and see” approach: Duration: If your cat is hiding for more than 24 to 48 hours and won’t even come out for food, water, or to use the litter box, something is wrong. Accompanying Symptoms: Pay close attention if hiding is paired with any other signs of illness or distress. As I already mentioned, this may include changes in appetite or thirst, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or a noticeable change in their usual behavior. Unusual Hiding Spots: A cat who normally hides under the bed but is now found cowering in the back corner of the closet may be trying to tell you something significant. Additional Behavioral Changes: Does your usually friendly, social cat hiss, growl, or swat at you when you approach their hiding spot? This is a serious sign of pain or fear. Physical Signs: Any visible signs of injury, such as limping, a visible wound, or difficulty breathing, coupled with hiding, should be considered an immediate emergency. When you bring your cat to the vet, be prepared to discuss any warning signs or changes in detail. Keeping a journal of your cat’s behavior can help ensure you don’t forget anything important. The vet will likely perform a careful physical exam and ask questions about your cat’s history and any changes you’ve observed. They may recommend diagnostic tests, such as blood work, urinalysis, or X-rays, to get a full picture of what may be happening internally. Ultimately, a vet visit is the only way to get a definitive diagnosis and identify the proper treatment for your cat. Remember, it’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to the health and well-being of your best friend!

How to Set Up the Perfect Feeding Area for Your Cat

Sometimes, it might seem that your cat is being picky about their food when, in fact, it’s a matter of them feeling uncomfortable in the area of your home where they’re fed. If you know that their food preferences are being met, and there isn’t a health concern that’s causing them to eat less than they should, you might need to tweak their feeding area to solve the problem. Keep reading to learn about a few of the things to keep in mind when deciding where your cat will have their meals.