How to Cat-Proof Your Home

Adapting Your Home for Your Cat's Senior Needs

The bond we share with our cats is one-of-a-kind. They are our best friends, therapists, furry entertainment, and more. We want to give them the best possible quality of life from the first day they come into our lives, but that desire to “do right” by them only intensifies as they enter their senior years. We want to ensure their comfort, happiness, health, and well-being during this stage of life.This is where adapting our homes comes into play. It’s not just about making things easier; it’s about creating an environment that supports their changing needs and prevents injuries. This post will provide you with practical tips and information for creating a senior cat-friendly home to ensure your best friend enjoys their golden years in comfort.Understanding Normal Senior Cat ChangesWhen we talk about “senior” cats, the definition is a bit of a grey area. The age that a cat crosses into that “senior” label can range from 10 to 12 years old, depending on who you ask.However, it’s important to remember that, like humans, our cats all age at different rates. Some may show signs of premature aging early in life, while others will remain spry and kitten-like well into their late teens. Factors like breed, genetics, lifestyle, and overall health can significantly impact when your cat starts to experience the signs of aging.As cats age, they may experience a variety of physical changes. Arthritis and joint stiffness are common in older cats, leading to decreased mobility, including moving a little slower, fewer “zoomies,” and difficulty jumping or climbing. Muscle mass naturally diminishes, which can impact their strength and agility.Senior cats are also at a higher risk of dental issues like gum disease and tooth loss. Your cat may also experience changes in digestion and elimination, including constipation, increased urination, and difficulty using the litter box (often due to mobility concerns).In addition to the many physical changes our cats experience, they may also go through some behavioral shifts. Senior cats often have lower activity levels, spending less time on playtime and more time napping.Your cat may become more vocal during this stage of their life, including meowing at night or experiencing disorientation, which may signal cognitive decline. Also called “feline dementia,” cognitive decline can lead to confusion, changes in sleep patterns, difficulty navigating spaces they were once familiar with, changes in appetite, and difficulty keeping up with their usual grooming routine. These changes generally don’t happen overnight; they occur gradually. This slow progression can make it easy to overlook, which is why it is so important as loving cat parents to familiarize ourselves with what to look out for and how to best accommodate their needs. Early detection and proactive changes in both your home and care routine will ensure they continue to live the happy, safe, and healthy life you’ve created for them.Tips to Help Adapt Your Home for Your Senior Cat’s ComfortCreating a comfortable environment that supports your senior cat’s needs involves carefully considered and thoughtful changes to various aspects of your home. It’s about anticipating their needs (including future needs, where applicable) and proactively making changes to enhance their life throughout their golden years.Soft and Accessible BeddingAs mentioned, senior cats tend to nap longer and more often. Orthopedic beds are a great option to support their aging joints. Place these beds in warm and easily accessible areas, avoiding high-traffic areas where that all-too-important nap may be interrupted.Consider heated beds or pads, especially during the colder month, to offer a little extra comfort and warmth for their stiff muscles. You can choose from a heated bed that relies on electricity or, as we prefer for our senior girl Pippen, a self-heating pad that can be placed anywhere without worrying about finding an electrical outlet.Temperature RegulationCats are more sensitive to temperature changes in their senior years. To keep your cat comfortable, try to maintain a consistent and comfortable temperature in your home, avoiding extreme heat or cold.Some ways to keep a steady indoor temperature include:Eliminating drats by sealing windows and doorsProviding warm spots and sun patches, such as window perches or cozy blanketsOffering contained sleeping spaces that help trap your cat’s body heatBeing cautious about placing your cat’s items (beds, food dishes, etc.) near heating or AC ventsReducing StressCats thrive on predictability, especially during their senior years. Establish and maintain a consistent daily routine, including mealtimes, bedtime, and play sessions (yes, senior cats still want to play – just shorter, less demanding sessions). Minimize loud noises and sudden changes in their environment, which can cause anxiety.Create a safe space for your cat, such as a quiet room, cat tree, covered bed, or cat condo, where your cat can retreat if they are feeling overwhelmed. If you have other pets, make sure there is at least one safe space where they can be guaranteed to escape on their own.If, despite your best efforts, your cat is still showing signs of stress and anxiety, contact your veterinarian to discuss calming aids, supplements, or medications.Accessible Food and Water StationsIn addition to offering a balanced diet that is uniquely suited for the changing needs of a senior cat, you must also consider the way you are feeding your best friend. Elevate food and water bowls to reduce strain on their joints from bending or reaching down during mealtimes. You can do this by using a raised feeder or placing your cat’s dishes on a small platform.Senior cats experience higher rates of dehydration. Place multiple water dishes or cat fountains throughout your house to encourage proper hydration by making fresh water easily accessible. Use easy-to-clean mats underneath their bowls to prevent spills and messes.

How to Safely Welcome a Skittish Rescue Cat into Your Home

Things You Should Know as a First-Time Cat Parent

Are you planning on sharing your home with a cat for the very first time in your life? Congrats on becoming a new cat parent! But there are some things you should know about kitties so you can take great care of them and understand them better. Here’s a brief guide to get started.  

Top 10 Ways to Puppy Proof Your Home

Be your puppy’s hero by making your home safe and welcoming for her arrival

How to Rabbit-Proof Your Home

Pet rabbits are lively and fun animals, and very entertaining to be around. When not snoozing and huddling, they will love to explore, hop about, and discover new nooks and crannies around your home. However, they have an affinity for chewing, nibbling, digging, and crawling into any space they find interesting – and interesting doesn’t necessarily mean safe, as well. Because of this, you will have to rabbit-proof your home, both to keep your rabbit safe, but also to preserve your furniture, gadgets, and any other valuables your bunny might find tempting to nibble on. But if you are a first-time rabbit owner, you might be clueless as to what exactly needs to be done to successfully rabbit-proof your home. Here are some classic tips and tricks from experienced rabbit owners – do these, and you’ll keep both your pet and your home safe and sound.Protect wires, cords, and cables We all know that bunnies simply love to chew and nibble on things. It is their way of exploring and getting to know their surroundings. However, in a modern home setting, this instinct isn’t only bad in terms of material damage, but it can also be dangerous for your bunny. One of the first things you will have to take care of is wires. Our homes have plenty of cables all around the floor – if a rabbit nibbles on them and reaches the wires, the outcome can be fatal. There are several ways you can rabbit-proof cables, and the best (and the easiest) way is to purchase special flexible tubing. Most hardware and electronics stores keep them. This tubing can encase several cables at once, making things neater – but also perfectly protected from your pet’s chompers. Of course, any other reliable solution is accepted, as long as you try keeping all cables out of a rabbit’s reach, whether somewhere higher or tucked away. Use pet-safe material to conceal and protect furnitureOf course, there are also things in your home that won’t harm your rabbit, but should also be protected nonetheless. Sofa legs, table legs, elaborate door frames, baseboards, and anything else that is close enough to the floor – all of it can be nibbled and chewed down to scraps. If you want to keep your possessions pristine, you should find ways to rabbit-proof them. In this case, anything goes, as long as the material isn’t toxic to bunnies. Cardboard tubes from paper rolls, flexible tubing, and premade protective solutions supplied by pet shops – anything can help prevent a rabbit from chewing his way through.Restrict access to certain areasOf course, one of the simplest solutions is simply blocking off certain areas you don’t want your pet to go in, whether the space is unsafe for them (e.g. floor level plants that can’t be moved) or if you don’t want to risk them ruining something that you can’t conceal or protect. You can opt for classic pet or baby fences that can be found in any pet store or general store and can effectively block doorways, staircases, and such. Keep your bunny safe in the room of your choosing, and keep the next room out of bounds. Efficient and simple! As long as they have plenty of room to hop about and explore, it doesn’t matter which room of your home they are in. Don’t forget about the flooringIn some cases, you might have to remove a carpet or get rid of your fancy rugs. Bunnies love to dig, and might find your carpet a suitable digging ground – or even realize that a carpet could be fun to chew on. In no time, your precious rug might end up all torn and tattered. It is best to keep your rabbit in a room with hardwood floors, tiles, laminate, etc, but make sure the surface isn’t too slippery, either. Rabbits don’t feel safe on surfaces that are slippery and can actually injure themselves if they happen to slip. Remove any toxic/poisonous items from your homeLast, but not least, is the danger of poisonous houseplants. That exotic flower or that spider plant you always loved might not be so harmless after all. Some common houseplants can be poisonous to rabbits, so make sure you keep them out of reach. The same goes for foods that are yummy to you but might kill or seriously harm your bunny – things such as avocado, chocolate, potatoes, and mushrooms (to name a few) are all dangerous for rabbits.In the end, try to be around when your bunny roams free around the house. With your supervision, everything becomes safer, and you don’t have to worry about your pet getting into trouble while you weren’t looking.

What Are the Best Dog Breeds for First-Time Owners?

Bringing home your very first dog is a big moment - exciting, joyful, and maybe just a little overwhelming. With so many breeds to choose from (not to mention all those adorable mixed-breed pups out there), how do you know which one is the right fit?If you're new to dog ownership, it helps to start with breeds known for being friendly, trainable, and relatively easy to care for. While every dog is unique, certain breeds tend to be more beginner-friendly thanks to their temperament and adaptability.Here are some of the best dog breeds for first-time owners - plus a few things to think about before making your choice.1. Labrador Retriever

Help! My Cat Stopped Eating

Have you recently noticed your cat, usually a bottomless pit, suddenly turning up their nose at their food dish? Whether it’s a sudden disinterest in their usual meal or a complete aversion to food, a change in your cat’s appetite could be a serious cause for concern.A decrease in appetite may be the result of several factors, ranging from a minor inconvenience or change in taste (they can grow tired of their food, too) to a serious medical condition. The first step to fixing the situation is to figure out the root cause.This post will look at some of the most common reasons a cat may stop eating, offer tips and tricks to encourage them to eat again, and help you decide when you should seek professional help from your veterinarian. Remember, if this is a sign of an underlying illness, early intervention is key!Let’s help your kitty get their appetite back!Why is My Cat Not Eating?Understanding the cause of your cat’s loss of appetite is the first step in determining the best course of action, whether it can be handled at home or calls for a trip to the vet. While occasional picky eating is normal for some cats (my girl Pippen goes through phases), an ongoing, persistent disinterest in their food may be a red flag for a more serious underlying medical issue.Here are a few of the more common reasons a cat may have stopped eating:Illness or DiseaseLike with people, several illnesses, diseases, and medical conditions could significantly impact your cat’s appetite. After all, if you’re not feeling well, eating can often make that feeling worse in the short term.Some possible explanations for the change include:Nausea is a common side effect of many cat-related illnesses.Upper respiratory infections can cause nasal congestion and pressure, making eating uncomfortable. Dental problems like tooth decay, cavities, or abscesses can lead to pain and difficulty chewing.Chronic illnesses like kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, and diabetes may disrupt your cat’s normal body functions, impacting their appetite.PainAnother potential medical-related reason for your cat not wanting to eat - Pain (whether acute or chronic) can leave your best friend feeling “off.” Injuries, arthritis, and other painful conditions can make movement uncomfortable, including chewing or even bending down to reach into their food dish. It can also cause a decrease in their overall activity level, meaning they don’t need to eat as much to keep up with the calories they’re burning. Cats are masters at hiding pain. We, as cat parents, need to be on the look out for any signs of discomfort, such as reluctance to jump, difficulty grooming, or changes in the normal behavior.Stress and AnxietyCats are very sensitive creatures, and even the smallest changes in their environment can cause stress and anxiety. Introducing a new pet, the arrival of a new baby, moving to a new home, or even loud noises like fireworks or home renovations can disrupt their sense of security and lead to a loss of appetite.In addition to appetite changes, signs of trouble to look out for include hiding, excessive grooming, uncharacteristic aggression, or changes in their litter box habits (aka “accidents”).How to Encourage Your Cat to Eat (Home Remedies)So, you’ve noticed your cat isn’t eating or eating less than usual. Now what? What can you do to support your cat’s appetite?While a veterinary consultation should also be your first step, there are several things you can do at home while you wait for your scheduled appointment. Once you’ve consulted with your vet, they can guide you on the best course of action, including any at-home maintenance care. Here are some strategies to help support your cat’s well-being in addition to their professional veterinary care:Food TemptationMaking your cat’s food more appealing can sometimes do the trick, enticing them to push past whatever is causing them to resist eating. Warming their food slightly can sometimes do the trick. You can also try experimenting with different textures. Some cats prefer wet food, while others enjoy a dry kibble or pate.Offering new or tempting protein sources, like cooked chicken, flaked tuna (in water, not oil), or salmon, can help to pique their interest.If your cat’s food isn’t tempting enough, consider using a food topper to add interest to their meal. There are many options, ranging from hydration options like bone broth to more traditional food toppers like freeze-dried proteins. But be sure to check with your vet before making any changes to your cat’s diet.Try Fresh Human FoodsMany cats will turn their nose up at cat food only to be tempted by human foods. Of course, this means familiarizing yourself with the foods that can be given to your cat safely.Some options you may want to consider to spark your cat’s appetite include:SardinesTuna or salmon (fresh or canned in water, not oil)BeefChicken or turkeyEggs, especially egg whitesPumpkin pureeBroccoliGreen beansGreen peasCarrotsSpinachAny cooked foods should be unseasoned. Most common seasoning options are unsafe or even toxic for our cats.Pay careful attention if your cat is trying to eat things they shouldn’t, like your house plants. While it’s great that they are eating something, their chosen snack could prove to be toxic and lead to other serious problems.Create a Comfortable Eating EnvironmentTry reassessing not only what your cat is eating but where they are eating. Are there elements of your cat’s eating environment that are significantly impacting their appetite? Make sure your cat’s dish is placed in a quiet location where they can eat undisturbed, away from high-traffic areas of your home or the competition of other pets.What about your cat’s food dish? Consider experimenting with different food dishes, like a more shallow dish to prevent whisker fatigue, or a different material, like ceramic instead of stainless steel.How often are you cleaning your cat’s food dish? An unclean dish could turn your cat off from eating entirely. Keep their dishes clean and placed at a comfortable height for their size.Reduce StressHigh stress levels can be a major appetite killer. Try to minimize any potential causes of stress or anxiety in your cat’s environment. Pay attention to any triggers that could upset your cat, like overwhelming smells or sounds.You can also reduce your cat’s stress levels by providing mental stimulation. Ensure they have plenty of environmental enrichment in your home, such as scratch posts, cat trees, cat shelves, and interactive toys. Additionally, you may wish to consider calming aids, like Feliway diffusers, but consult with your veterinarian first.

Participants Needed for First-Ever Global Cat IQ Study

Have you ever wondered just how smart your cat truly is? Do you wonder if their personality reflects their breed or coat type (tortie parents, I’m looking at you)? Now, you can learn more about your best friend while contributing to groundbreaking research that aims to answer that very question!Researchers at the University of Maine at Farmington’s Maine Cat Lab are conducting the first-ever international study of cat intelligence, and they’re looking for cat parents like you to participate.This one-of-a-kind study, led by psychology professor Karol Maybury and university library manager Bryce Cundick, seeks to better understand cat personalities and smarts on a global scale. Unlike dogs, which have been the subject of numerous intelligence studies, cats have been largely overlooked in this area.“We wanted to see, could we take the same metric that we use or people personality,” Cundick explained. “Does it translate over to cat personality?”The current phase of the study involves a 10-item online questionnaire that explores different aspects of your cat’s intelligence, including memory, problem-solving, attention span, emotional intelligence, and gained knowledge. Pet parents are asked to evaluate their cats’ behaviors through a series of questions, and in return, they will receive an IQ score between 7 and 70, which then sorts your cat into one of six tiers:Tier 1: The Cheshire Cat Dreamer (7-19Tier 2: The Garfield Gourmand (20-32)Tier 3: The Tom Tactician (33-45)Tier 4: The Bagheera Sleuth (46-55)Tier 5: The Felix Forecaster (56-65)Tier 6: The McGonagall Mastermind (66-70)So far, the researchers have gathered over 5000 responses from cat owners worldwide. Among them were Ryan Ham and his fiancé Hannah Gagnon, who participated with their Ragdoll, Gobi.“My cat’s IQ score is 35. ‘Persistent and crafty, these cats are like Tom from “Tom and Jerry.” While their plans don’t always work out, their sheer determination and ability to think on their paws make them formidable,’” Ham read from the survey results, recognizing Gobi in the description.

Snacks vs Treats vs Food - How to Get the Calorie Combo Right.

(photo credit: ValeriyPH / shutterstock.com)Do you know what the optimal calorie intake is for the size of dog you live with? Most pet parents don’t, so here’s a snapshot. Keep in mind, that this is a general estimate that doesn’t take into account your dog’s activity level, whether they have been neutered or spayed, their breed, or their age.The average caloric requirement for dogs to not only maintain their weight but remain healthy breaks down as follows: for dogs under 20 pounds, it’s around 320-480 calories per day. That increases to 640-800 calories daily for dogs between 20 and 50 pounds. Larger breeds, closer to 70 pounds can consume between 960 and 1120 calories while dogs over 70 pounds will require 1100 to 1350 calories every day to maintain their weight and health.Whether your dog has a set meal period or you’ve opted for free-feeding (meaning he can graze throughout the day as hunger strikes), adding treats and snacks to his diet will inevitably happen, right? The difference is a snack is something healthy and substantial to tide him through between meals. For a human, it could be hummus and carrot sticks or an apple and cheese. You know, tasty and protein-rich to fill you up for a couple of hours. It’s the same with dogs. Particularly if he’s heavily active and needs an energy boost.But then there are the treats which, just like they sound, are mini-indulgences that we all look forward to from time to time and can be prone to overdoing.Now, when you worked out the optimal caloric intake for your dog, your first thought may have been that this opens the door for a heck of a lot of those little treats he loves to scarf down.But keep the lid on that goodie jar! Let’s apply the 10% rule that veterinarians from across the land have espoused to their clients for years. It states that treats should never make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake.That instantly reduces treat consumption for mini mutts to under 50 calories. For larger dogs, less than 135 calories should be attributed to their daily treats.For context, a one-inch cube of cheddar cheese has around 69 calories. Well beyond what a smaller pooch is allowed to consume in a given day. And, if you toss your larger pooch a couple of cubes at a time, more than what he should be given as well. See how that math works?

Hiding Pills and Liquids to Make Medicine Time Easier for Cats

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

Dog Breeds with High-Maintenance Grooming Needs

All dogs need to be groomed on a regular basis. This includes bathing them, brushing their coat, trimming their nails, cleaning their ears, and brushing their teeth. But certain breeds are more complicated than others. For example, some dogs also need to have their wrinkly skin cleaned and kept dry, while others can have tear stains that need to be wiped away, and many breeds have coats that need to be clipped often.

Why Dogs Eat Poop, According to a Canine Behavior Expert

You may not want to admit it, but your dog has probably eaten poop once or twice. While this type of behavior makes dog owners shudder, it’s shockingly common for our four-legged companions to eat poop. But why would dogs, especially those with food bowls full of delicious kibble, choose to indulge in such a nasty habit? You might be surprised to learn that there are several reasons why some dogs eat poop.Also known as coprophagy or coprophagia, eating fecal matter is a normal behavior for many animals, including dogs. In fact, research has shown that 25% of dogs eat poop regularly and that nearly half of all dogs have tried to eat feces at some point in their lives.  Some wild animals, including foxes and wolves, will eat their puppies’ stools to help keep the den clean and reduce scents that might attract predators. Studies also show that eating fresh feces might minimize the likelihood of intestinal parasites being spread, providing an evolutionary advantage to our dogs’ wild cousins. Like their wild counterparts, domestic dogs also eat their puppies’ poop in the first few weeks of life to keep them clean. This gives puppies a chance to observe and learn this type of behavior. “Puppies are naturally exploratory - and they’ll taste anything,” said Dr Emily Blackwell, lecturer in companion animal behavior and welfare at the University of Bristol. “And feces don’t taste or smell gross to them in the way they might do for us.”As unappealing as it may seem to us, poop still contains many nutrients and can serve as a good food source when times are hard. Experts speculate that Valerie, a miniature dachshund that has survived 529 days in the Australian wilderness did so partly by eating other animal’s poop. Let’s not forget that dogs have different preferences from us when it comes to the taste, smell, and texture of their food. There’s little research about coprophagia in dogs, but so far, it seems that there’s no apparent connection with diet and age. Researchers are looking for links between gut flora, diet, and diseases that may cause dogs to eat poop. An underlying health problem could be the reason why your dog is eating poop. Schedule an appointment with your vet if your pooch has started eating poop all of a sudden. Your vet will run tests to rule out health problems. Poor living conditions that don’t allow the dog to move a lot or explore, like kennels, a lack of mental stimulation, and punishment during potty training have been linked with dogs eating their own poop. Even if there’s no underlying health problem or your pooch doesn’t actually like the taste of poop you might be inadvertently encouraging them to eat poop while trying to discourage that behavior. “Normally, the consequences of this behavior are that owners rush over to any feces during walks, trying to get there first to stop their dog. But this signals to the dog that feces are important to the owner, increasing its value. And that could make the dog ever more determined to reach it before the owner,” explained Blackwell. “In this way, a lot of dogs are actually eating poo because they’ve almost been trained to by their owner. It’s all about how you respond,” she added. While Valerie, the miniature dachshund, may have eaten poop to survive, most poop-eating canines aren’t forced to eat feces to stay alive. The good news is that coprophagia is manageable. Understanding why your dog eats poop - whether it’s the result of a health problem, evolutionary instinct, or poor living conditions - can help you address this behavior with understanding rather than revulsion. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Do Rabbits Make Good Pets for Children?

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

What Are Symptoms of Anxiety in Dogs?

Just like humans, dogs can experience stress and anxiety due to various factors - separation from their owners, loud noises, unfamiliar environments, or even past trauma. While occasional nervousness is normal, chronic anxiety can lead to behavioral and health issues. Recognizing the signs early allows you to take steps to ease your dog's distress and improve their overall well-being.Common Signs of Anxiety in DogsDogs show anxiety in different ways, ranging from subtle body language changes to more obvious behavioral problems. Here are some key symptoms to watch for:Behavioral SignsExcessive Barking or Whining – If your dog frequently whines, howls, or barks, especially when left alone, it could be a sign of separation anxiety.

Arizona Humane Society Supports Shelters Affected by California Fires

The devastating wildfires in California have left many pets in need of rescue, and a lot of them have also suffered injuries that require extensive veterinary care. Unfortunately, some animal shelters in California are not able to care for all of the pets in need because they are at capacity, especially since they have had to take in so many more animals since the fires broke out. But the good news is that shelters and rescues in other states are stepping in to help, and one example is Arizona.

Is An Automatic Litter Box Safe for My Cat?

Scooping the litter box is arguably the most disliked chore that comes from sharing your home with a cat. It’s time-consuming and messy. It can even lead to back pain for some cat parents. For some, it makes the dream of being a cat parent inaccessible due to their own physical limitations. Thankfully, the rise of technology has led to a promising new solution – the automatic litter box. But with this convenience comes a natural concern: are these automatic boxes truly safe for our feline friends?Anytime we introduce technology to take over any aspect of our pets’ care, it should raise concerns. After all, we all want the best for our cats!And with the rise of cheaper, often poorly manufactured knock-off products, stories of safety concerns are becoming more common on social media.In this article, I’ll discuss the most important considerations when debating whether to introduce an automatic litter box into your home. This includes comparing the different types of boxes available and highlighting the critical safety features used by reputable brands. In the end, I hope you feel confident making an informed decision for your cat.Automatic Litter Box OptionsThere are a variety of automatic litter box styles to choose from, each with its own set of pros and cons. Despite the seemingly endless list of options, they can be sorted into three general categories:Sifting BoxesThese boxes use a sifting mechanism to remove any waste clumps from the clean litter. Sifting boxes are generally the most affordable of the automatic litter box options. They need less frequent maintenance to continue working optimally, but the sifting process isn’t always as reliable as the other options, occasionally leaving smaller clumps behind. Example: Omega Paw NRA15 Self-Cleaning Litter Box Self-Cleaning BoxesUsing a rake or paddle, self-cleaning boxes rake through the litter to remove waste from the clean litter and into a designated drawer. These boxes are known for being quite effective, even incorporating special features to reduce odors. However, they are more expensive than sifting boxes and require more maintenance. Some self-cleaning boxes also require specialized litter to operate effectively.Example: PetSafe ScoopFree Crystal Pro Self-Cleaning Litter BoxFull-Cycle BoxesThe most advanced of the options (and also the highest price tag), full-cycle litter boxes completely remove all waste from the litter box, holding it in a sealed drawer or compartment. With advanced features like self-cleaning cycles and odor filters, they are the most convenient option, keeping your house clean and smelling fresh. But with all the bells and whistles, they are more complex to operate and maintain.Example: Litter Robot 4 by WhiskerBy understanding the different features, price points, and maintenance needs of each type, you can choose the automatic litter box that best suits your cat’s needs and your lifestyle.The Rise of Knock-Off ProductsRecently, there has been a growing concern about the safety of automatic cat litter boxes, sparked by the devastating stories of cat parents whose best friends were injured or even killed from their use. But before you give up on the idea of automatic boxes entirely, there are some important points to be made.Philip Bloom ( One Man Five Cats on YouTube), an online creator and well-known product reviewer, made it his mission to uncover why this was happening and whether steps could be taken to make these boxes safe. He found that it wasn’t the concept of the box itself. Instead, it was the overwhelming number of cheaper, often poorly manufactured, knock-off products.While the allure of the budget-friendly price point is tempting, these imitation products frequently compromise safety and quality. They create risks already addressed with higher-quality products by not incorporating the necessary safety measures.Some of the more common safety hazards associated with these knock-off boxes include:Malfunctioning Mechanisms: Knock-off boxes are often poorly designed or manufactured with faulty or defective moving parts. This can lead to pinching, trapping, or injuring your cat. In the most heart-breaking cases, this can be fatal.Electrical Hazards: Faulty wiring and poorly applied or inadequate electrical insulation can increase the risk of short circuits, fires, or even electrocution.Toxic Materials: Like many other cheaply made products, some of these knock-off litter boxes are made using substandard or even harmful plastics that could release toxic fumes when heated or exposed to cat urine (which, being a litter box, they will inevitably be).Lack of Safety Features: Reputable brands prioritize the safety of our cats, incorporating features like motion sensors, emergency stop buttons, and reliable safety timers. Knock-off boxes are often missing most or all of these safeguards, increasing the risk of accidentsOne way you can keep your cat safe while upgrading to the convenience of a new litter box is by purchasing from reputable brands with a strong track record of safety and customer service. These boxes may be a little pricier, but it is a good example of “you get what you pay for.” Reputable brands invest in rigorous testing and quality control to ensure their products meet high safety standards.

How to Tell If Your Dog Has an Ear Infection

Ear infections are common in dogs and can cause significant discomfort if left untreated. Knowing the signs early can help prevent complications and ensure your pet gets the care it needs. Here’s everything you need to know about recognizing, treating, and preventing ear infections in dogs.Signs of an Ear Infection in DogsDogs with ear infections often display clear symptoms. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to act quickly:Frequent Scratching & Head Shaking: Excessive scratching at the ears or frequent head shaking can indicate irritation or pain.Redness & Swelling: Healthy dog ears should be light pink and free of inflammation. If the inner ear appears red, swollen, or warm to the touch, it may be infected.Foul Odor: A musty, yeasty, or foul smell from the ears is a strong indicator of an infection caused by bacteria or yeast overgrowth.Unusual Discharge: Thick, dark discharge (yellow, brown, or greenish) often signals an infection. Be mindful, however, that some dogs naturally produce more earwax than others.Pain & Sensitivity: If your dog whimpers, pulls away, or reacts negatively when you touch its ears, it could be experiencing discomfort from an infection.Hearing & Balance Issues: In severe cases, an untreated ear infection can affect a dog’s hearing and balance. Signs include disorientation, head tilting, or difficulty standing.Common Causes of Dog Ear InfectionsSeveral factors can contribute to ear infections in dogs:Bacteria & Yeast Overgrowth: Moist, warm environments inside a dog’s ears create the perfect conditions for bacteria and yeast to thrive, especially in floppy-eared breeds.Allergies: Dogs with food or environmental allergies are more prone to chronic ear infections due to inflammation.Ear Mites: These tiny parasites are a common cause of infections, particularly in puppies.Moisture & Poor Hygiene: Water trapped in the ears after swimming or bathing can promote bacterial growth. Regular cleaning is essential.Foreign Objects & Debris: Grass seeds, dirt, and other debris can get stuck in a dog’s ear canal, leading to irritation and infection.Preventing Ear Infections in DogsPrevention is key to keeping your dog’s ears healthy. Here are some simple steps you can take:

Tips for Working From Home with Pets

Working from home provides a host of conveniences, one of which is being able to spend all day with your pets, keeping an eye on them and making sure they have everything they need. But pets can also be distracting or cause a commotion when you’re trying to meet deadlines or engage in a virtual meeting with colleagues. To help you out, we’ve compiled a few tips for working at home with your pets so you can take advantage of the perks and ensure everyone, including your furbabies, is happy.