Food Allergies vs. Sensitivities in Cats: What’s the Difference?

Polydactyl vs Polymelia in Cats. What's the Difference?

For this feline, a life-altering condition was remedied with the removal of three extra legs! Giving this now-tripod kitty a new lease on life.

How to Ferret-Proof Your Home

Ferrets are curious, active, and intelligent, and they love a good adventure. So, you shouldn’t be surprised when they make their way into your cabinets, dressers, and little nooks and crannies throughout your home. They’re also liable to chew on things they shouldn’t or ingest things that are dangerous or toxic. For these reasons, it’s necessary to properly ferret-proof any room where they’ll spend time outside of their enclosure.

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.

How to Stop Your Dog from Watching You While You Eat

Most dog owners are familiar with the feeling of being watched during meals. The steady gaze, the quiet presence, and the hopeful expression are all part of a behavior that can become a daily challenge. Some dog owners might not mind it, but, for others, it can make mealtimes less enjoyable. With a few adjustments and consistent training, you can help your dog learn to give you space while you eat.

5 Facts About Goldfish You Might Not Have Known

Goldfish are one of the most popular pets in the world, often admired for their bright colors and grace. While many people see them as fairly simple creatures, there are a few things about goldfish that might just surprise you.  

Is Your Dog’s Vision Getting Cloudy? It Could Be Cataracts

If you’ve recently noticed your dog is starting to hesitate on the staircase they’ve climbed a thousand times before or bumping into the living room furniture that hasn’t moved in years, it’s only natural to worry. Your heart sinks a little as you wonder what’s wrong with your best friend.These changes can be subtle at first, but they can be a sign of a larger issue with your dog’s vision. One of the most common causes of this kind of gradual change is a condition called cataracts.In this post, I’ll explore what cataracts are, discuss the many reasons they may develop, and help you identify the signs. Most importantly, I’ll share the information you need to give your dog the best possible quality of life.What Are Cataracts?Let’s start with the basics: what exactly are cataracts? Imagine your dog’s eye is a tiny camera, and inside that camera, there’s a lens that focuses light onto the back of the eye to create an image. In a healthy eye, this lens is perfectly clear and allows light to pass through without any obstruction. A cataract is a clouding of the lens.When looking at your dog, the cloudiness may look like a smudge or fog stretching across the eye and covering your view of the iris. This cloudiness is caused by the proteins in the lens clumping together, which prevents light from passing through properly. As the condition progresses, the cloudiness becomes denser, blocking even more light.In the early stages, the cloudiness will cause your dog’s vision to be blurry. However, if it’s allowed to progress to a more advanced stage, it can lead to complete blindness.Cataracts vs. Nuclear SclerosisIf you have a senior dog whose eyes are starting to show a light haze, it’s easy to jump to the conclusion that it’s a cataract. This is a common concern, but it may be an age-related change called nuclear sclerosis.Nuclear sclerosis is a natural hardening of the lens that happens with age, causing the eye to have a hazy, grayish appearance. Unlike cataracts, it typically doesn’t significantly impact their vision. A cataract, on the other hand, is a more opaque, milky-white clouding that limits the passage of light into the eye. Only a veterinarian can tell for sure which one your dog has.Causes of Cataracts in DogsWhile we often associate cataracts with getting older, there are several reasons your dog may develop them (even at a younger age). Understanding the potential causes can help you take preventative steps and, where prevention isn’t possible, to prepare yourself to give your pup the best possible care.Genetic PredispositionOne of the most common factors, and unfortunately not preventable, is your dog’s genetics. Just like in people, some dogs are simply more prone to developing cataracts due to their breed. Breeds like Poodles, Cocker Spaniels, Golden Retrievers, and Siberian Huskies are all at higher risk. If you know your dog’s lineage, it can give you a heads-up and a reason to be extra vigilant about any changes in their eye health, even from a young age.DiabetesThis is a big one. Diabetes is the most common preventable cause of rapidly developing cataracts in dogs. The link is direct and powerful. When a dog has high blood sugar, it affects the chemical makeup of the eye’s lens. This causes it to swell and become cloudy very quickly.Cataracts are often one of the first signs that a dog is suffering from undiagnosed diabetes. If your vet suspects the clouding is from cataracts, they will almost always test for diabetes as well.Injury or Trauma to the EyeA strike to the head, a scratch, or any kind of physical injury to the eye can cause significant damage to its delicate parts, including the lens. This trauma can impact the proteins within the lens, triggering the formation of a cataract. This is why it’s so important to be careful with your dog around things like sharp sticks and other potential hazards, or to use eye protection (like Rex Specs Goggles) when most at risk. Other Potential Causes While less common, there are other factors that can also contribute to the formation of cataracts. Chronic inflammation inside the eye, a condition known as uveitis, can damage the lens over time. In rare cases, especially in puppies, nutritional deficiencies can play a role, with the lens failing to develop properly. Ultimately, like with people, some cataracts are simply a part of the natural aging process, a gradual change that can happen to any dog as they get older. Warning Signs to Watch Out For Noticing that something might be wrong with your dog’s vision usually starts with subtle changes in their behavior. They can’t tell you that their vision is blurry, but their body language can help communicate that something is happening. Subtle Behavioral Changes These are often the earliest cues. You may notice your once active dog starts to hesitate before jumping onto their favorite spot on the couch or going up and down the stairs. They may seem a little confused, especially in new or dimly lit environments, possibly bumping into furniture or bumping into door frames that they use to navigate without any problems. You may also see a change in their play, as they stop engaging in their favorite games like fetch or struggle to catch treats when tossed their way. Sometimes a dog may become more anxious or clingy when their vision starts to change, especially if they are in an unfamiliar space. Physical Signs of Cataracts in DogsIn addition to behavioral changes, especially as the condition escalates, you may be able to see physical signs in your dog’s eyes. This is why many veterinarians recommend that dog parents do regular eye checks at home, helping them catch subtle changes early. When looking into your dog’s eye, look for a noticeable cloudy, milky-white, or bluish-gray appearance in one or both pupils. One or both pupils may not look as dark or black as they used to. While a hazy look can be a sign of nuclear sclerosis, a dense, opaque white appearance is a stronger indicator of a true cataract.

Can Betta Fish Live with Other Fish?

Betta fish - also known as Siamese fighting fish - are some of the most striking freshwater fish you can add to an aquarium. With their vibrant colors and flowing fins, they’re a favorite among both beginner and experienced aquarists. But one common question often arises: Can bettas live with other fish?The short answer is yes, but with caution and planning. While bettas can sometimes be kept with tank mates, their compatibility depends on their temperament, the tank setup, and the types of fish you introduce. Here’s what you need to know.Understanding Betta BehaviorMale bettas are well-known for their territorial and aggressive nature, especially toward other males or fish that resemble them. This trait has roots in their wild origins, as bettas come from small, isolated waters in Southeast Asia, where males would compete for territory.Female bettas are typically less aggressive but can still be territorial in cramped spaces. That’s why tank size matters a lot. Small bowls or tanks under 5 gallons (19 liters) are not suitable for any community setup. If you want to try housing a betta with other fish, aim for a tank of at least 10 gallons (around 40 liters) - more space means more territory and fewer conflicts.

Do Our Pets Experience Phantom Pain?

Studies are helping us understand this neurological phenomenan and what we can do to help our pets post-surgery.

Unlikely Pair Proves Friendship Knows No Species in Viral Video

We’re all familiar with the stereotype of dogs and cats as natural-born rivals, but one unlikely duo is proving that when it comes to love, no species barrier is too great. A viral video on TikTok of Mango, a tiny rescue kitten, and his new nurturing best friend, Melons the Labrador. Their journey from strangers to siblings is a powerful reminder of how a loving home can transform a life and mend a broken past. Just a few weeks ago, Mango’s future was uncertain. A friend of Tessa Carroll’s, a dog parent from Hawaii, found the five-week-old kitten trapped inside the engine of her car. Covered in motor oil and ridden with fleas, the tiny kitty was malnourished and in desperate need of help. When his rescuer reached in to grab him, he didn’t even fight. He simply surrendered, as if he knew his difficult journey was finally about to change directions. When Carroll’s friend called her and shared the young kitten’s story, she agreed to foster him. But first, she wanted to make sure he would get along with her 6-year-old Labrador, Melons. The first few nights were questionable. Mango was skittish and nervous around the much larger dog (understandably), but he never ran away. He seemed curious and apprehensive, all at the same time. But Melons proved to be an unexpected source of comfort. The submissive dog rolled over and invited the little kitten to say hello, showing patience and compassion. Within days, Mango’s apprehension began to fade. The little orange cat, who had been through so much, was starting to show his true colors. With a safe and loving environment, his confident and bold personality emerged.

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.

Dogs Can Sniff Out Parkinson's Disease, Study Finds

If you’ve ever caught your dog sniffing something way too intensely and wondered what they’re thinking, well, turns out they might be picking up more than just smells. A new study has found that dogs can actually sniff out Parkinson’s disease. Yes, really.The research, led by scientists from the University of Manchester and the University of Bristol, shows that dogs can detect the disease just by smelling skin swabs taken from people’s backs or necks. The study involved two pet dogs, Bumper the Golden retriever and Peanut the Labrador. These pups were trained using treats and lots of praise to tell the difference between samples from people with Parkinson’s and those without it.And they didn’t just guess. In tests, the dogs correctly identified Parkinson’s cases around 80% of the time. Even more impressively, they were right about the “healthy” samples nearly 98% of the time.Dr. Claire Guest, co-founder of Medical Detection Dogs (the organization that helped train Bumper and Peanut), said the results are “hugely encouraging.” She added, “Timely diagnosis is key when it comes to slowing progression of Parkinson’s, and dogs may be able to spot the disease years before symptoms become obvious.”It’s not exactly new that dogs can smell things humans can’t. They’ve already been trained to sniff out certain cancers, detect blood sugar drops in diabetics, and even identify COVID-19 infections. But Parkinson’s has always been a tough one. It's often diagnosed too late, and there’s no single test for it. Right now, doctors rely mostly on observing symptoms like tremors and stiffness, which usually don’t show up until the disease is already well underway.So, how does a dog even do this?People with Parkinson’s seem to produce a different mix of natural oils on their skin, something called sebum, and those oils release compounds that smell just slightly different. Humans can't pick it up, but dogs? Their noses are tens of thousands of times more sensitive than ours. What smells like nothing to us might hit them like a perfume counter.For the study, the researchers collected samples by having people wear gauze patches overnight or by swabbing the backs of their necks. The dogs were then trained to sniff out the ones with Parkinson’s. When they got it right, they were rewarded. It was all positive reinforcement, without pressure.And yes, these were ordinary pet dogs. Not super-dogs, not military or police-trained sniffers. Just well-loved companions who also happened to be very, very good at their jobs.Dr. Nicola Rooney from the University of Bristol, who co-led the research, said that these results show there’s a clear scent profile associated with the disease. “We were impressed with how consistent the dogs were,” she said. “There’s definitely something there.”That “something” could change the way we approach early diagnosis. Imagine a future where a dog’s nose becomes part of routine screenings, especially for people at high risk. Even better, researchers hope to eventually identify exactly which compounds the dogs are smelling so labs can create artificial sensors that work just as well.But for now, it’s hard not to feel a little awe at what dogs can do. They’re not just our walking buddies or food-stealing kitchen shadows. They’re capable of helping us in ways we’re only beginning to understand.And maybe next time your dog won’t stop sniffing you, you’ll pause before pushing them away. They just might know something you don’t.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Why Is My Dog Gaining Weight? Should I Be Concerned?

Have you recently noticed a little more padding than there used to be when petting your pup? Does their collar appear a tad snugger than it was just a few weeks ago? As loving dog parents, we are generally the first to notice when something changes, including changes in our best friend’s weight. But when should you be concerned about those added pounds?While a little extra weight may initially seem unimportant, sudden weight gain in dogs can sometimes be a warning sign of an underlying medical issue. In this post, I’ll help you uncover the possible reasons for your dog’s growing waistline, including when to see a veterinarian. Plus, I’ll offer some actionable tips to help keep your pup at a healthy weight.Recognizing Sudden Weight Gain in Your DogIt can sometimes be tricky to spot changes in your dog’s weight based on looks alone, especially if they have a lot of fur. That’s why it’s important to take time regularly to do a quick check on your dog’s body condition. Here are some practical ways to do this:The Scale: If your dog isn’t too large, the obvious answer is to use a scale. Regularly weighing your dog at home will give you concrete numbers to check. Most veterinarians will also allow their clients to come in and use their scale between checkups.The Feel Test: If your dog is a healthy weight, you should be able to easily feel their ribs when running your hands along their body without pressing too hard. If you’re looking down at their body from above, you should be able to see a visible waist tuck.The Look Test (with Caution): Look at their overall body shape. Are they looking rounder, especially around the belly? Do they appear to be losing definition?Keep in mind that relying on how they look may be misleading, causing you to miss signs of trouble. Long-haired breeds can hide extra weight under their fur. Seasonal changes in your dog’s coat thickness may also give the illusion that they have gained weight when they haven’t. Your best approach is not to rely on visual appearance alone.Not worried about your dog’s weight right now? This is the perfect time to weigh them and get a solid baseline. By knowing their healthy weight, you’ll have something to compare it to if you are concerned that there may be a worrisome change in the future.Potential Reasons Your Dog is Gaining WeightWhen our dogs start to pack on the pounds unexpectedly, it’s natural to wonder what’s happening. Especially because some potential explanations serve as a warning sign of something far more serious.Often, the answer lies in a simple imbalance between the calories they consume and the energy they expend each day. However, other factors, including changes in their activity levels and even underlying health conditions, can also play a role.Let’s look at some of the most common reasons for sudden weight gain in dogs.Dietary ChangesArguably, the most common reason for a dog’s growing waistline is an increase in the number of calories they eat with no matching change to their activity level (or a decrease in activity with no change to their meals). This can manifest in several ways, such as:A recent switch to a food with a higher calorie density, even if the portion size remains the sameAn increase in the frequency or size of treatsThe addition of table scraps and other human foods to their dietMiscommunication between family members about whether/how much your dog has eatenIt’s crucial to remember the importance of correctly measuring your dog’s food portions to avoid unintentional overfeeding. Check the packaging of your dog’s food for the feeding guidelines, as this is unique to each brand and formula.Lower Activity LevelsEven if your dog’s diet hasn’t changed, a reduction in their exercise levels could lead to weight gain. Just like with humans, fewer calories burned means more stored as fat.There are several reasons why a dog’s activity levels may decrease. As dogs get older, they naturally slow down. Injuries or chronic pain, such as canine arthritis, can limit their mobility and ability to be as active as they once were at their prime. They may also be less active due to changes in your lifestyle or daily routine. For example, if your work schedule is suddenly hectic, it may lead to fewer or shorter walks.Finally, consider the environmental factors that could impact their willingness or ability to stay active. For example, extreme weather conditions like sweltering summer heat or chilly winter temperatures may result in less outdoor playtime.Underlying Medical ConditionsWhile the delicate balance between diet and exercise is often the primary culprit, sudden weight gain can sometimes be a warning sign of an underlying medical condition. Several conditions can lead to weight gain, and as responsible dog parents, we must be aware of these possibilities: Hypothyroidism: A condition where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone, often slowing a dog’s metabolism, leading to weight gain even with a normal diet Cushing’s Disease (Hyperadrenocorticism): An overproduction of cortisol, which can increase appetite, alter fat distribution (often leading to a pot-bellied appearance), and cause weight gain Heart Disease: This sometimes leads to fluid retention, which may manifest as a bloated abdomen or the appearance of rapidly gaining weightOrgan Enlargement: When key organs in the abdominal area, such as the liver or spleen, become enlarged, they can contribute to abdominal bloating or swelling and a feeling of weight gainMedications: Certain medications, particularly corticosteroids, are known to increase appetite, leading to weight gain as a side effectFluid Retention (Edema or Ascites): The buildup of fluid in the body’s tissues or abdomen can be caused by various underlying conditions (like the aforementioned heart disease) and result in a rapid increase in apparent weight

5 Things to Know Before Getting a Pet Gerbil

Gerbils are small, energetic rodents that can make delightful companions. They’re curious, playful, and often cleaner than other small pets. But, like any animal, they have specific needs that future owners should be aware of before bringing them home. Here are five essential things to know before adopting a gerbil. Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Why Is My Dog Scooting on the Floor?

It starts with a little shuffle. Then a curious drag across the carpet. Maybe even right in front of your guests - and suddenly, your dog is scooting their bottom across the floor, leaving you amused, confused, or slightly horrified.But here’s the thing: while it might look funny, scooting is usually a sign that something’s bothering your dog. It’s their way of saying, "Hey, something doesn’t feel right back there."Let’s take a closer look at what causes this odd behavior - and how you can help your pup feel more comfortable.What Is Scooting, Exactly?Scooting is when a dog drags their rear end along the floor, usually while in a sitting or crouched position. It's not something dogs do just for fun - it’s almost always a response to itching, discomfort, or irritation in the anal area.If it happens once in a blue moon, it might not be anything serious. But if your dog scoots regularly, it’s time to dig a little deeper.Common Reasons Why Dogs Scoot1. Anal Gland Problems (The #1 Culprit)Dogs have two small anal glands located on either side of their anus. These glands naturally release a strong-smelling fluid when your dog poops - part of how dogs mark territory.Sometimes, those glands don’t empty properly and become impacted, inflamed, or infected. This can lead to:Itching or swelling around the anusScooting or licking at the areaDiscomfort when sitting or poopingA groomer or vet can usually express the glands manually. If there’s an infection, your dog may need medication.2. Worms, Especially TapewormsTapeworm segments look like tiny rice grains and may appear around your dog’s rear or in their stool. They can cause serious itching in that area, leading to scooting.Treatment is a deworming medication from your vet that can clear it up quickly, so at least that’s simple!3. Allergies (Food or Environmental)If your dog has allergies, it might show up as:Red or itchy skinFrequent ear infectionsLicking paws or chewing at their feetAnd yes - scooting, due to irritated skin near the rearYour vet can help identify whether food or environmental triggers are at play, and recommend an allergy-friendly diet or medication.4. Dirty Fur or Foreign ObjectsSometimes the cause is just... well, a little mess. Long-haired dogs are especially prone to getting dried feces or debris stuck in their fur, which can cause irritation.A gentle cleaning or a trim around the sanitary area can do wonders.

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. 

Rescue Dog's Sweet Reaction to His New Life Goes Viral

The internet is often a place where we, as pet lovers, come to watch hilarious cat videos or random trending dances (yes, people dance with their pets, too). But sometimes, a moment of pure, raw emotion captures the hearts of people across the globe. That’s precisely what happened recently when a TikTok video showcasing a newly adopted rescue dog exploring her new forever home went viral. The video, posted by user @annabanana5783, showed a glimpse of the sweet rescue pup tentatively checking out the place she now called home, offering a heartfelt look at the initial moments of her journey from life in a busy animal shelter to the comfort and security of a loving home. The brief footage showed the dog, named Bella, moving through the house with cautious steps and wide, inquisitive eyes. The way she slowly and gently navigates these unfamiliar surroundings makes it clear that the young pup is still unsure but interested in this new beginning. Set to the melody of “Stuff We Did” from the movie “Up,” the scene is undeniably touching and emotional. The dog mom’s caption, “She’s still adjusting to living in a house,” speaks volumes about the dog’s likely past experiences, a life spent within the confines of an animal shelter where (especially with current shelter overpopulation) space and freedom were limited.

Dog with Grapefruit-Sized Tumour Gets Help From UK Rescue

Charity urges other pet owners to seek out treatment and financial support rather than ignoring medical issues.

Patio-Worthy Picks to Keep Your Pooch Chill This Summer