How Long Can I Leave My Dog in a Crate?

Can I Muzzle My Dog to Stop Barking?

Final Thoughts - Can I Muzzle My Dog to Stop Barking?Excessive barking can be frustrating and, if left unaddressed, can put you, as the owner, in a difficult situation. In some places, this can lead to fines or even eviction due to noise complaints. Unfortunately, the process of training a dog to stop barking isn’t one that is usually solved overnight – but it can be done! While you might have seen it recommended to use an “anti-bark” muzzle to stop your dog’s barking, it is not recommended for anything more than a 10 to 15-minute quick fix. Not only does it not teach your dog not to bark in the future, but the muzzle's design could create a dangerous situation. Instead, start by identifying the cause. Is your dog overly excited? Is there a trigger that makes them feel fearful and stressed? Are they trying to protect you when someone walks onto your property? Knowing the trigger will help you not only stop it but also manage your dog’s barking in the short term. If you feel overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to contact a professional trainer or certified behaviorist to offer guidance and direction. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How Can I Ease My Dog's Separation Anxiety When I Leave the House?

You're your dog’s best friend and their favorite human – and at the end of the day, no one likes to be away from their dearest and most loved person, right? That’s exactly the viewpoint of your little pooch, who’ll hate it when you go out, even if for an hour. They can’t tell the time, they only know they are alone and they don’t like it a bit. When these feelings are magnified, the result is  separation anxiety, a condition in dogs characterized by intense distress or anxiety when they are separated from their owners or left alone. It is a common behavioral problem and can manifest in various ways, including destructive behavior, excessive vocalization, pacing, drooling, house soiling, or even self-injury. All of this can be challenging, but there are several strategies you can try to ease your dog's anxiety when you leave the house.What are the Common Signs of Separation Anxiety?Not all dogs are the same, and some could react differently when they are separated from you. It all depends on the breed, their relationship with you, and their own personality. But if symptoms of separation anxiety do appear, they should be easy to recognize. Here are some of the most common symptoms to look out for:Excessive barking, howling or whining when left aloneDestructive behavior, such as chewing furniture or household itemsUrinating or defecating indoors, even when house-trainedAttempts to escape or digging at doors or windowsPacing, restlessness, or excessive pantingLoss of appetite or decreased interest in foodExcessive salivation or droolingAddressing separation anxiety takes time and patience. It's important to approach the problem systematically and be consistent in your efforts. With the right approach and support, you can help your dog overcome separation anxiety and feel more comfortable when you leave the house. Of course, you should first understand why it appears in the first place.What Causes Separation Anxiety in Dogs?If you are a new dog owner, it will work in your favor to know what causes separation anxiety, so you can quickly eliminate it from your pet’s future. These are the main causes:Lack of socialization: Dogs that have not been adequately exposed to being alone or have had limited experiences with different environments or people may be more prone to separation anxiety. Don’t neglect your pet’s basic needs – spend time with them, in play and mental stimulation. Always provide company for them. Life changes: Major life changes such as moving to a new home, a change in the family structure, or the loss of a family member can trigger separation anxiety in dogs. A major break in the established routine can have profound effects on dogs. Previous abandonment or trauma: Dogs that have experienced abandonment, neglect, or traumatic events may develop separation anxiety as a result of their past experiences. If you are rescuing a pet from a shelter, keep this in mind. Inquire about their past. Overattachment: Dogs that form an excessively strong bond with their owners and become overly dependent on them are more likely to develop separation anxiety. This can happen to single owners especially. How to Deal with Separation Anxiety in Dogs?There are a number of ways that you can counter separation anxiety and eliminate it altogether. Remember that it is crucial to stay consistent and patient. Maintain a routine: Dogs largely depend on routine, so establish a predictable schedule for your departures and arrivals. This helps your dog anticipate your comings and goings, reducing anxiety.Establish a safe space: Designate a specific area in your home where your dog feels secure and comfortable. Use this space for relaxation and provide comforting items like bedding, toys, and maybe even an article of your clothing that carries your scent.Use toys that are engaging and stimulating: Keep your dog mentally stimulated and occupied while you're away by providing interactive toys that dispense treats or require problem-solving. This can distract and entertain your dog, reducing anxiety. Snuffle mats and nosework toys such as  this fun design are a good choice, too, as there’s no better way to keep a pooch occupied than to give them treats they need to sniff out. 

What Can I Do If My Dog Runs Away During Fireworks?

When the celebrations begin and the fireworks are brought out, they can become a source of anxiety and fear for many dogs, and it is not uncommon for them to run away in panic. If your pet happens to run away because of fireworks, it can be a distressing experience for sure – both for you and them – but it is crucial to remain as calm as possible and take action to find them as soon as possible. Here is what you need to know in order to locate your pet quickly and to prevent any future escapes.What Can I Do If My Dog Runs Away During Fireworks?Fireworks are a big part of festivities such as Fourth of July, New Years Eve, and even smaller celebrations, such as people’s weddings and birthdays. Often, you cannot prevent this, as fireworks can be released by neighbors or at the town square. And even if you are near your pooch, one moment can be enough for them to bolt off. Here is what to do if that happens:#1 Stay calm:First of all, it is essential to stay calm and composed. Keep a level head, as panicking won’t help you think clearly or act effectively. Take a few deep breaths and start your search methodically.#2 Check your home and immediate surroundings:Dogs often don’t go far at first. Thoroughly search your home, yard, and nearby areas. Look under porches, in bushes, and any hiding spots they might find comforting. #3 Call and listen:Walk around the neighborhood calling your dog’s name. Pause and listen for any sounds of movement or barking in response. Sometimes, a frightened doggo may be nearby but too scared to come out immediately.#4 Use a familiar scent:Leave out your dog’s bedding, favorite toys, and some pieces of your clothing. The familiar smells can lure them back home. Placing their food and water outside can also help. Remember that dogs have super powerful noses and will pick up scents with ease. To help broaden your search, you can also inform your neighbors about your missing pet. Provide them with a description and your contact information. Neighbors can keep an eye out and may have already seen your pet. Similarly, you can post about your missing dog on local social media groups, such as Facebook community pages, Nextdoor, and other neighborhood forums. Include a clear photo, a description, and your contact details. The more people are aware, the better the chances of finding your dog. If enough time passes, you can also visit the nearby animal shelters, rescue organizations, and vet clinics. Bring a recent photo of your dog with you or easier identification. Leave your contact information and check back regularly.Another great idea is to make flyers with a clear photo of your pooch, a fitting description, and your contact information. Distribute them around your neighborhood, in local businesses, and public areas. This traditional method can still be very effective.Preventing Your Pet Runs Away Or Gets Lost Due to FireworksOnce you find your pet it is important to take steps to prevent this from ever happening again. Here are some basic steps to take:#1 Secure your home and your yard: Ensure that your house and yard are secure. Check for any weak spots in the fence, or find areas where your pet could escape. #2 Microchip:Make sure your dog is microchipped and that the information is up-to-date. In addition to a microchip, your dog should always wear a collar with an ID tag that includes your current phone number.

How Can I Reduce My Dog's Environmental Pawprint?

In today’s day and age, with the climate and environment at great risk, we want to do anything we can to minimize our own carbon footprint and the damage we do to Mother Nature. Of course, our pets also have an environmental impact – and eco-conscious pet parents are always on the lookout for simple ways to reduce their pet’s carbon footprint (or pawprint if we’re being precise). Luckily, there are a lot of small but important steps that you can take in order to make your pet’s lifestyle and care much more eco-friendly without compromising the quality of life they are used to. Here's where to start if you want to become a more eco-friendly, sustainable dog owner!5 Ways You Can Reduce Your Dog's Environmental PawprintCaring for your pet can be challenging, and that’s no secret. However, the things that make it easier are not often very good for the environment, and can make your pet’s environmental pawprint significant. Luckily, it does not take too much of a change to turn that completely around and start improving that environmental impact, day by day. What follows are just a few of the basic steps you can take as a caring and responsible owner.#1 Be Responsible About Your Pet’s Waste Disposal:

How Can I Remove Plaque From My Dog's Teeth?

We love our dogs and many of us won’t say no to puppy smooches – but to be fair, not all furballs have the freshest breath out there. If your dog has  bad-smelling breath, the culprit might be plaque buildup and the bacteria overgrowth that comes with it. We all know that bacteria are responsible for all things smelly, and when it comes to oral hygiene, the reason why bacteria are there in the first place is bits of leftover food that slowly but surely turn into tartar on your pet’s teeth. The best way to prevent plaque on a dog's teeth is to brush them, but what about existing buildup? How can you remove plaque from your dog’s teeth at home – or is it something that has to be done professionally? Here’s what you need to know about plaque and tartar and how best to remove them.How Can I Remove Plaque from My Dog's Teeth?Maintaining good dental health in dogs is crucial for their overall well-being. Addressing plaque in your dog's teeth is not just about maintaining a bright smile; it's a key aspect that contributes to their overall health, happiness, and longevity. Regular dental care is an investment in your dog's well-being that pays off in various ways - it’s sure way to prevent dental diseases such as  gingivitis and  periodontitis, eliminate bad breath odor, avoid tooth decay and loss, and maintain your dog’s good appetite. After all, dogs depend on their teeth to eat properly. Just imagine the effect of bad or missing teeth. Unchewed food, indigestion, vomiting – the list is long. So it goes a long way to act on this ahead of time and prevent tartar buildup and remove any existing one. Here are just a few tips to consider when dealing with persistent dog teeth plaque:Prevent Buildup With Regular BrushingDogs need to brush their teeth just like us! They’ll need your help to do it, of course. Remember that it is never too late to start. Start slowly and gently with short brushing sessions, gradually increasing the time as your dog becomes more comfortable. Of course, you should use  a toothbrush that is designed specifically for dogs or a similar fingerbrush. The toothpaste also needs to be for dogs only (never use human toothpaste as it may contain ingredients harmful to dogs).

Should You Get a Slow Feeder for Your Cat?

You have a lot of options for feeding your cat their favorite foods, from basic bowls and dishes to high-tech automatic feeders and the latest slow feeders. But what are the benefits of slow feeders, which are designed to make cats eat more slowly? Here are a few of the main reasons why you might want to give these products a try.

How Do I Eliminate Cat Litter Box Messes Once and For All?

Whether it’s litter tracked all over the floor, smelly odors, or urine outside the box, litter box issues can quickly turn a peaceful home into a chaotic one. But fear not! It is possible to be a proud cat parent and still enjoy a clean and tidy home. With a few simple tips and tricks, you can eliminate cat litter box messes once and for all.The key to a clean and odor-free box starts with understanding your cat’s behavior and preferences. Cats are creators of habit, and the smallest detail may cause your cat to turn their nose up at their box setup.In this guide, we’ll discuss the common causes of litter box messes and provide practical solutions to address them. This includes the importance of box placement, the ideal litter box size and type, the best litter options, and products that can help address any issues. Plus, I’ll share my tried and tested cleaning techniques from a lifetime of sharing my home with cats.Why Do Some Cats Eliminate Outside the Litter Box? While not all messes related to the litter box are related to accidents outside the box, this is the cause of much of the frustration cat parents experience. But what could cause a cat to choose to do their business somewhere besides the litter box, especially if they were previously doing great in this department? There are several explanations for why a cat may start to have accidents outside the litterbox, ranging from the setup/location to possible medical causes. Let’s take a look at the most common reasons to help you narrow it down: Medical Issues Anytime a new behavior develops or a behavior changes, you should take a moment to consider whether there could be a medical explanation. This means setting up an appointment with your veterinarian so they can run the tests necessary to rule out these issues or begin treating the problem. When it comes to litter box issues, the most common medical problems your cat may experience include: Urinary tract infections Bladder stones Kidney disease Hyperthyroidism Urinary incontinenceArthritis (can make it hard to get into the litter box) Cognitive dysfunction (forgetting where the box is/to use the box)Stress & Anxiety Physical medical conditions aren’t the only potential causes. It’s also possible that your cat’s bathroom accidents are a sign that they are currently experiencing high levels of stress and anxiety. Take a moment to consider whether any significant life changes recently could trigger a stress reaction. This could include a move to a new house, renovations within the home, a change to the people or pets in the house (adding a new pet, someone leaving for college, a death in the family, etc.), or even a change to your usual schedule and routine. Litterbox Setup/Location There are several common mistakes that cat parents make when setting up a litter box in their home. Just like people have preferences, so do our cats – including preferences regarding where they go about their business. This includes their preferred type of litter, the size/shape of their box, or the location in the home. One error I hear about a lot is setting up the box in a less-than-ideal location in the home. This could be because the area is too busy, making it uncomfortable for your cat (would you want to conduct business with everyone moving around you all the time?) or that there is an unpleasant smell or sound in that area. Or your cat’s litterbox could simply be too out of the way, making it inconvenient to have to make the trip to the box when they need to go. Too Few Litterboxes Contrary to common belief, setting up a single box in a central area of your home may not be enough to meet your cat’s needs, especially if there are multiple cats in your home. You may also need additional boxes if you live in a large or multi-story home. Cleanliness The most straightforward problem to address, yet a common issue faced in cat-loving homes, is that you simply aren’t cleaning the box frequently enough. We don’t enjoy the smell of a dirty box, so why should they? Especially if it means they have to literally climb right into the center of all that odor. You may have to clean your cat’s box multiple times daily, depending on how many cats you have, the box size, litter type, and your cat’s preferences. How Litterbox Size and Set-Up Affect SmellI just mentioned that your choice of litterbox and where it is set up in the home might cause bathroom accidents, but did you know those choices can also directly impact how much the box smells? If your cat’s box is tucked into a corner or a small room, like a closet, the confined space may keep the odors out of your home in general – but it is trapping them in that area which can absorb into the walls over time. It may also discourage your cat from entering the space to go to the bathroom, leading to more accidents in other areas of the home. Instead, it would be best if you chose a well-ventilated area. A box in a high-traffic or central area of the home could also contribute more to the noticeable odors. This isn’t to say the box actually smells more, but that the constant movement around it can stir up the unpleasant odors in a location where you’re more likely to notice them. Asking your cat to use a box that is too small or shallow may prevent your cat from being able to cover their waste. While one may not think a layer of litter could effectively trap odors, you would be surprised! Providing a litterbox with enough litter for your cat to dig down and bury their waste will help decrease odors until you clean it each day.

What Are the Benefits of Aromatherapy for Dogs?

Aromatherapy, the therapeutic use of essential oils derived from plants, is a growing trend - not just for humans but also for pets, especially dogs. Thanks to their exceptional sense of smell, dogs are particularly responsive to scents, making them good candidates for this practice. When used correctly, aromatherapy can offer several benefits for a dog’s emotional and physical well-being. However, it’s crucial to approach it with caution and the right knowledge.Understanding Aromatherapy and Its Benefits for DogsAromatherapy works by releasing scent molecules from essential oils. Once inhaled, these molecules travel to the brain, where they can help promote relaxation and support overall psychological well-being. Here are some potential benefits for your furry friend:1. Stress and Anxiety ReliefDogs are highly sensitive creatures and can become anxious due to loud noises, travel, separation, or changes in routine. Essential oils like lavender and chamomile are known for their calming properties and can help soothe a nervous or hyperactive dog.

What is Trancing in Dogs?

If your dog likes to take it really slow and easy when walking under objects, he may be trancing.

Relic the German Shepherd Named 2025 Rescue Dog of the Year

In a heartwarming tale highlighting the power of patience, training, and a loving foster home, a six-year-old German Shepherd named Relic has been named the Pedigree Foundation’s 2025 Rescue Dog of the Year. Relic’s journey from a stressed and nervous shelter dog to a beloved family member is a true happy ending. It’s a testament to the commitment of dedicated shelter workers like those at East Bay SPCA and the impact of a loving foster home. Relic’s story began at the East Bay SPCA in Oakland, California. When he arrived at the shelter, he was already showing signs of shelter stress – a bad omen for many in overcrowded shelters waiting for their forever home. But, the shelter staff saw potential in Relic, creating a plan of action that would set him up for success and keep him from being another statistic.  This plan included moving him into a private setting for specialized care and training while searching for the ideal foster home where he would thrive with personalized support. Finding the right foster home was easier than they anticipated. A couple who had recently lost their beloved cat of 15 years had contacted the shelter with the intention of fostering, opening their hearts and home to Relic and his ongoing care. “The house felt empty without him (the cat), but we weren’t quite ready to open our home to another pet,” the couple shared in a firsthand account of Relic’s story on the shelter’s website. “We thought fostering at the East Bay SPCA might be a nice way to have pets in the home without committing to it full-time and be able to provide a needed break from the shelter for a deserving pet.” They thought they were only taking Relic home for a week or two, but the Universe clearly had other plans… Despite having no prior experience with a reactive dog, the couple quickly learned, with the support of shelter staff and an in-house trainer, how to work through the challenges. Under their care, the once-nervous dog began to blossom, and a playful, affectionate personality emerged – a personality the couple quickly fell in love with. In fact, they fell so in love with the newest addition to their home that they couldn’t let him go, making the decision to adopt him. “Relic is a loyal, good natured dog who is well behaved around the house and a sweet cuddler when we let him up onto the bed with us,” the couple described. “He takes up a lot more space in the house than our cat did and it took some adjusting to, but we love having him around now and can’t imagine our home without him.” Today, Relic is living his best life in his forever home. He enjoys cuddling on the bed and playing with his favorite toys. The couple says he has befriended the neighbor’s dog, enjoying regular walks together. To celebrate Relic’s crowning achievement, the Pedigree Foundation has created a limited-edition plush toy in his likeness. It’s available for purchase at the Dogs Rule store, with a portion of the proceeds supporting their efforts to provide rescue grants and help dogs find loving homes through the organization's ongoing work.   Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

How Much Exercise Does a Labradoodle Need?

A delightful crossbreed of charming Labrador Retrievers and elegant Poodles, Labradoodles combine the best traits of both breeds: intelligence, a friendly nature, hypoallergenic coats, and a boundless love for fun. These qualities make Labradoodles beloved companions, but their high energy levels and playful demeanor mean they need plenty of exercise to thrive. Here’s what every would-be Labradoodle owner should know about meeting their furry friend’s activity needs before adopting one.How Much Exercise Does a Labradoodle Need?Labradoodles are active dogs that require daily physical and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. On average, adult Labradoodles benefit from 60 to 90 minutes of exercise per day, divided between activities that challenge both their bodies and minds.Physical Exercise: Activities like running, playing fetch, or agility courses are excellent ways to burn off their extra energy.Mental Stimulation: Puzzle toys, treat-dispensing gadgets, and obedience training sessions help keep their sharp minds engaged.

From the LA Fires, New Legislation Expedites Pet Rescue in Disasters

Video of distraught pet owner Casey Colvin kicks new bill into full gear.

Jennifer Aniston Launches Fund to Help Animal Rescues

Animal shelters and rescue organizations often face significant financial burdens. Caring for animals in need, from food and shelter to veterinary costs and rehabilitation, isn’t cheap, and the bills can add up quickly! While these organizations collect adoption fees, they are rarely enough to cover operational costs. Instead, they rely heavily on donations and volunteers to keep their doors open.Recently, actress, producer and entrepreneur Jennifer Aniston announced her latest project – a children’s book titled Clydeo Takes a Bite Out of Life.Inspired by her Schnauzer mix rescue dog, Clyde, the book is the first in a four-book deal. In it, the main character, Clydeo, goes on a journey of self-discovery while searching for his true passions in life. Aniston hopes the book will inspire and motivate children to explore their own interests.“They’re so focused on these phones and just disappear into this void of scrolling,” she stated. “They don’t really spend time being stimulated by the world and figuring out what they want to do.”But how does this tie back to the costs of running a rescue organization? With the release of her book, Aniston also launched The Clydeo Fund. As a dog mom who understands the joy and love a rescue dog can bring into your life, she wanted to create a way to support animal rescue organizations across the country and worldwide.

New Screening Tool Can Predict Imminent Pet Mortality

Developed to help guide health care in senior pets, it raises the question of whether we really want to know.

Festive Tips to Keep Your Pets Safe During Holiday Gatherings

The holiday season is just around the corner, a time spent laughing and celebrating with the people we love most. While we're busy decorating our homes, baking holiday treats, and preparing for friends and family to arrive, it's important to remember that our furry friends are also part of the celebration. After all, nothing will put a damper on the festivities quite like a trip to the emergency vet! Luckily, there are steps you can take to create a holiday environment where you and your pets can both enjoy this joyous season to the fullest! In this guide, I will share some of the most common holiday hazards that can pose a threat to pets, such as toxic foods, dangerous decorations, and the added stress of social gatherings. Plus, I'll offer practical advice on pet-proofing your home, managing guest interactions, and creating a calming space for your pet. Common Holiday HazardsAs we deck the halls and prepare our mouth-watering festive feasts, we need to be mindful of the potential dangers facing our furry friends. From bright, tempting decorations to toxic holiday treats, even the most well-intentioned and responsible pet parents may face a holiday emergency.To help you avoid an unnecessary holiday disaster, here are a few common holiday hazards to be aware of:TinselA common holiday decoration, the bright shine and sparkle of tinsel screams Christmas. However, most pet parents aren’t aware of the risks of ingesting this festive garland. During the holiday season, tinsel is a common cause of bowel and intestinal obstructions, resulting in expensive vet bills, surgery, and even life-threatening emergencies.Holiday OrnamentsTinsel isn’t the only decoration posing a risk during this festive season. While many may look at a Christmas tree and see a collection of beautiful decorations, some pets see chew toys. Chewing and ingesting holiday ornaments can lead to choking, obstructions, or even death.A type of holiday ornament often seen on the tree of pet parents, salt dough ornaments are a hidden risk that you need to be aware of. The amount of salt in these ornaments can lead to dangerously high sodium levels in their blood, causing thirst, tremors, seizures, coma, or worse. If you choose to use this approach to make a cute paw print ornament to hang on the tree, make sure it is up and out of reach of your furry friends.Christmas LightsNot only do the glass bulbs themselves pose a risk to curious pets, but the electrical cords may also be tempting chew toys. Of course, chewing on any electrical cord can quickly turn into a life-threatening situation.When hanging Christmas lights in your home, tuck the cords away from your pet’s reach. If you have a dog or cat who tends to chew on things they shouldn’t, you may need to take extra precautions to keep them away from these risks. An exercise pen is a great way to set up a barrier around a Christmas tree, allowing you to enjoy the glow of the blinking lights while avoiding an emergency.Poinsettias and Other Holiday Plants While many pet parents are familiar with the toxic risk of poinsettias if a dog or cat were to ingest them, they aren’t the only toxic plants commonly associated with the holidays. Some other plants you should be aware of include: Holly MistletoeYew Lilies (Day, Tiger, Easter, Asiatic, Japanese Show)AmaryllisAnother plant-related risk to watch out for is the water under your Christmas tree. While keeping your tree watered is essential to keep it from drying out (creating a fire hazard), that same life-giving hydration is often a toxic mix. Christmas tree water may contain bacteria, mold, or pesticides. Not quite the refreshing drink your pet is looking for! Festive Snacks The holidays are often celebrated with good food – the center point of every festive gathering. But many of those holiday foods are also toxic to your pet(s). As you’re planning your holiday spread, watch out for these common toxic foods/ingredients: Chocolate Xylitol (artificial sweetener) Onions and garlic (in large doses)Macadamia nuts And more… This doesn’t mean you have to change your menu, but you do need to be careful when serving these dishes to your friends. Keep the serving dishes up and out of your pet’s reach and warn any guests about setting their plates down in your pet’s reach. In addition to the toxic risk these items may cause, there are other potential concerns surrounding holiday foods. High-fat foods like turkey can lead to pancreatitis. Meanwhile, foods with higher sugar content may trigger or worsen cases of diabetes and obesity. Alcohol Another common part of our festivities, most parties involve sharing a festive drink. From a glass of wine to your favorite eggnog (with a little bit of rum), there is nothing wrong with enjoying a little alcohol during the holidays – unless, of course, the one drinking it is your pet. Alcohol toxicity is surprisingly common among dogs or cats of any age. Why? These drinks often smell and even taste enticing, encouraging our pets to drink more than their fair share. But their small size means that they can’t handle nearly as much alcohol without trouble as we do. It doesn’t take much to make your pet feel sick or to create potential dangerous or even fatal side effects. Stress & Anxiety from Gatherings Your dog’s stress levels may not be considered a life-threatening hazard, but it can create an unpleasant or potentially dangerous situation if it isn’t properly addressed. In fact, stress & anxiety can cause health problems for your pet. When you take a pet who is used to their home environment being a calm, safe, and secure space and suddenly introduce a bunch of unknown people, excitement, noise, and activity, it may be too much for your pet. This doesn’t mean you can’t throw a holiday party – but you should take steps to manage the situation and set your pet up for success. This includes minimizing stress triggers, where possible.

Chasing Some Great Products for Your Senior Dog?

How Do I Prevent Roundworm in Cats?

As loving cat parents, we do everything we can to give our kitties the best possible care. But even the most attentive guardians can sometimes face unexpected challenges. One common and concerning problem is the roundworm.These pesky creatures can cause a range of health issues for your cat and even pose a risk to humans! That’s why you need to know the signs of trouble and how to keep your whole family safe.In this guide, I’ll provide you with valuable information about roundworm prevention, including the importance of deworming, hygiene tips, and possible environmental changes you can make to reduce the risk.Let's work together to keep our cats (and ourselves) safe from these unwanted pests!What Are Roundworms?Roundworms are intestinal parasites. More specifically, they are parasites that live within the intestines of an infected cat. They get their name because they are round, like long tubes like strands of spaghetti (though significantly smaller than the popular pasta).Their presence isn’t the biggest concern, instead, it is what they do to survive. While living within the intestines, the parasites feed off the nutrients moving through the host cat’s digestive tract. As they do, they rob the cat of the nutrients they need to support their growth and overall well-being.What Causes Roundworms in Cats?The first step in preventing a roundworm infestation is understanding where your cat may pick up these unwanted pests. Here are the most common causes you should be aware of:Ingesting Infected PreyArguably the most common, cats who hunt and kill prey run the risk of ingesting a bird, rodent, or insect currently carrying the roundworm larvae. While this is often associated with outdoor cats, even an indoor cat could face this challenge if they catch a critter that has found its way into the house. If you have a cat who enjoys going outdoors, even those who only go out when on a leash, pay careful attention to what they may be in contact with. This could include prey they are hunting or even recently killed prey they come across during their adventures.Contaminated EnvironmentsEven if your cat doesn’t find/ingest a contaminated bird or animal, they may also pick up the parasites from a shared environment. An infected animal may leave behind infected feces or roundworm eggs on common surfaces like soil and grass.Whether your cat is ingesting the feces directly or grooming themselves later, ingesting roundworm eggs they may have picked up in their fur, it can lead to a roundworm infestation.Shared Resources in Multi-Cat HomesDo you have multiple cats? If so, be warned – a single infestation in your home can quickly spread and become a more widespread problem. Much like your cat could pick up roundworm eggs or larvae through contaminated environments outdoors, the same can occur in the home, where they share resources like litter boxes, food bowls, and water dishes.Of course, this cause requires one of your cats to pick up the parasite somewhere else first, bringing it into the home. But it still deserves mention as it will impact some of my prevention tips below.Mother-to-Kitten TransmissionIf you have an infected pregnant mother cat or one who has recently given birth, there is a good chance that they will pass the parasite to their kittens. The first risk arises when the kittens are still in utero. If the kitten avoids the parasite before birth, they can also become infected by nursing off an infected mother cat.Symptoms to Watch Out ForRoundworms are not responsible for significant health problems in an otherwise healthy adult cat, making them difficult to spot. A minor infection may not result in any noticeable symptoms at all! However, an infestation can be serious and potentially life-threatening for a young kitten or senior cat.The parasites can be passed from an infected cat to other pets in your home or even to humans. So, even if your cat isn’t bothered by the parasite, it could lead to a bigger problem. The earlier you spot signs of trouble, the sooner you can contact your vet to address the issue.The most common signs of roundworm in cats include:Vomiting (you may even see white or light brown worms in your cat’s vomit)NauseaLoss of AppetiteAbdominal discomfortSwollen or enlarged belly, also described as a potbellied appearanceWeight lossCoughing from roundworms in the lungsDull, lifeless coatStunted growth in kittensVisible worms in your cat’s stoolWhat is the Prognosis for a Cat with Roundworms?Luckily, treatment, when given early, is highly effective. The prognosis is good at this stage, even in higher-risk cats, like kittens and seniors. However, if the infection is allowed to progress, the chance of recovery begins to drop significantly.After diagnosing that your cat is carrying the parasite, your veterinarian will recommend a deworming medication. These treatments are fairly inexpensive and aren’t associated with many side effects or complications, making them a safe option. After giving the treatment, your cat will pass the dead or dying roundworms in their stool.It is important to note that these treatments don’t work on roundworm eggs or larvae. To ensure the infestation is completely cleared up, your cat will need two or three treatments, approximately 2 to 3 weeks apart.

Marley the Tuxedo Wins UK's National Cat of the Year Award

Bringing comfort and support to women in a London safe-house, this feline takes top prize.