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How To Stop Your Cat from Dashing Out the Door

Do you have a stealthy feline who's always looking for a quick exit? We share ways to keep her happy... and indoors!

What Vaccines Does My Kitten Need?

Welcoming a kitten into your home is a joyful, heartwarming experience - and the start of a lifelong bond. But along with the cuddles and playtime, your new feline friend needs a solid foundation of care. One of the most important steps? Vaccinations.Vaccines are essential to protecting your kitten from serious - and sometimes life-threatening - illnesses. They play a vital role in keeping your pet healthy and also help prevent the spread of disease to other cats.If you're feeling a little overwhelmed, don’t worry - here’s a simple guide to the core and non-core vaccines your kitten may need, plus a general timeline to help you stay on track.Why Vaccines Matter for KittensKittens are especially vulnerable to infection because their immune systems are still developing. Vaccines work by gently training their bodies to recognize and fight off certain viruses and bacteria - before they ever encounter the real thing.In short, vaccines help your kitten build immunity, giving them a much stronger defense against common feline diseases. And by vaccinating your cat, you’re not just protecting them - you're also helping reduce the spread of disease in your local cat community.Core Vaccines: What Every Kitten NeedsCore vaccines are recommended for all kittens, regardless of whether they’ll be indoor-only or outdoor explorers. These vaccines protect against the most common and dangerous feline illnesses:1. Feline Panleukopenia (Distemper)A highly contagious (and often deadly) viral disease that causes vomiting, diarrhea, and severe dehydration. This is one of the most critical vaccines your kitten will receive.2. Feline Herpesvirus (FHV-1) and Feline Calicivirus (FCV)These viruses cause upper respiratory infections, often referred to together as feline viral rhinotracheitis. Symptoms include sneezing, nasal discharge, eye irritation, and sometimes mouth ulcers. They’re very common, especially in multi-cat households or shelters.3. RabiesRabies affects the nervous system and is fatal - and it can be transmitted to humans. Vaccination is legally required in many areas, and even indoor cats need protection, as rabies can be spread by the bite of an infected animal.Non-Core Vaccines: Based on Lifestyle and RiskNon-core vaccines aren’t necessary for every cat, but they’re recommended in certain situations, especially if your kitten will be around other animals or spend time outdoors.1. Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)FeLV weakens the immune system and can lead to cancer. It spreads through close contact like grooming or sharing food and water bowls. This vaccine is often recommended for kittens, outdoor cats, or those in multi-cat homes.2. Bordetella bronchisepticaA bacterial infection that can cause respiratory issues, especially in crowded or high-stress environments like shelters or boarding facilities.3. Chlamydophila felisThis bacterium causes conjunctivitis (eye inflammation) and is most often a concern in catteries or rescue settings. Your vet may recommend it if your kitten is at higher risk.The Typical Kitten Vaccination ScheduleVaccination generally starts when kittens are around 6 to 8 weeks old, with boosters given every 3 to 4 weeks until about 16 weeks of age.A typical schedule looks like this:6–8 weeks: First round of core vaccines10–12 weeks: Booster shots + possible non-core vaccines14–16 weeks: Final boosters1 year later: Booster shots (some may shift to every 3 years after this)Your vet may adjust the schedule based on your kitten’s health, lifestyle, and specific risks.A Healthy Start Begins with VaccinesGetting your kitten vaccinated is one of the best things you can do to ensure a happy, healthy future together. While it might seem like a lot at first, your veterinarian will walk you through the process and help create a personalized plan.By staying up to date on vaccinations and regular checkups, you’re giving your kitten a strong start and the best possible protection for the adventures ahead.

Animal Shelters Are Becoming Full As More People Are Giving Up Pets

Animal shelters faced heartbreak before, but lately it feels like the tide is washing in harder than ever. Across the U.S., animal shelters are overflowing, standing-room only, because more pet owners are turning in their beloved animals. It’s tough to read, but when you dig into the reasons, you realize how much love is behind each surrender. It’s just people running out of options.Shelter intake numbers climbed to about 5.8 million dogs and cats in 2024, with around 29% surrendered by owners who just couldn’t keep them anymore. In cities like Chicago, owner surrenders have surged. At Chicago Animal Care & Control, surrenders have shot up six-fold compared to 2023, and it’s their job to take every animal that comes in.Even in Wisconsin, shelters report an “unprecedented” increase. The Wisconsin Humane Society had 1,108 pets surrendered in June alone. That’s double last year’s number, and staff are struggling just to find space and time for basic care.At Waukesha County’s Humane Animal Welfare Society, dog intakes are up 13% and cat intakes up 20% over the past year, and they’ve completely paused accepting transfers from other regions just to avoid total collapse.And it’s not just a stray overload. Many surrendered pets are family members. In Chicago, someone waited in line that day to surrender their dog, saying: “If I could afford her, I’d be at the vet right now… you’ve got to choose between living, rent, gas… or the dog”.At Monroe’s Humane Society in Louisiana, they’re designed for about 70 - 75 dogs, but right now have nearly 90, even keeping some free-range in offices because kennel space is gone.What’s behind the rise? Financial pressures top the list. Vet bills, inflation, pet food, grooming, rent, pet deposits, everything costs more. A recent Bank of America Institute report noted that vet care costs have climbed roughly 42% since 2019; pet food, around 22% up. Combine that with eviction threats and pet-incompatible housing, and suddenly, owners who intended to keep their pets forever are making heartbreaking choices.In Philadelphia, staff at ACCT Philly noted that nearly 40% of animals surrendered this year were due to eviction or lack of affordable housing that allows pets. “This isn’t about neglect,” said shelter rep Sarah Barnett, “it’s about survival. Many families are doing the best they can".Behavioral and medical issues also factor in, but far less than economic and housing stress. And there’s another problem, many pets adopted during the pandemic turnout weren’t spayed or neutered, leading to surprise litters and overcrowded homes.So, what are shelters doing to respond? In NYC, the Animal Care Centers paused pet intake for the first time in decades when centers exceeded 1,000 animals, and the backlog is intense. They’ve also secured new public funding to add staff and improve conditions, though critics say it still isn't enough.At local shelters like PAWS in Lynnwood, north of Seattle, dog surrenders are up 37% this year. They’re limiting the intake of stray pets just to manage their capacity. Shelter staff are running on grit, doing everything from food donations to makeshift kennels and urgent foster care to keep animals safe until space opens up.If you're a pet parent, there are things you can do to help! Donate food, supplies, or time. Foster a pet temporarily. If you're thinking of adoption, now is a great time. And for anyone who’s struggling to keep their pet, reach out to local shelters or rescue groups first. Many offer help, including affordable vet clinics or community food programs, to avoid surrender.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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Golden Retrievers enter nationwide casting call to be the next Buddy in super-popular Air Bud franchise.

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

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

Your Dog’s Graying Might Not Be Normal

You may notice your dog’s fur losing its color with age. This is normal and natural, just as graying comes with aging in people. And you’ll mostly notice the graying around your dog’s muzzle. But there is a time when graying might not be healthy, and might instead be a cause for concern. Keep reading to learn when graying in dogs is considered abnormal.

Viral Puppy Video Confirms the Best Way to Protect Young Joints

Exploring the great outdoors together is one of the great joys of sharing our lives with a dog. Fresh air, new scents, and challenging trails are a great way to build a strong bond between a dog and their person. But as a recent video reminds us, giving our pups a great lie means carefully balancing the thrill of adventure with the need for safety and rest – especially when they’re young. An adorable video featuring Apollo, a young Australian Cattle Dog, on his first hike, went viral on TikTok.  With over 7 million views and 1.5 million likes, the clip captured the hearts of dog lovers everywhere. The video highlights pure puppy enthusiasm and joy, followed by an immediate need to recharge. Instead of sprinting down the path, the young pup is seen settled comfortably on the trail, leaning against his owner as if she’s his personal, portable sofa. According to his mom, this was Apollo’s “first little hike.” While the experience was a fun adventure with new scents, the actual walking distance was short. In fact, Apollo spent much of the time being carried. His mom noted that seeing him grow comfortable in nature, exploring and sniffing everything, was “such a beautiful treat.” It was more about experiencing the great outdoors in a positive way than achieving distance goals.

Introducing a New Cat to Your Pet Family? We Can Help!

(photo credit: Ilyas Kalimullin / shutterstock.com)Is there anything more stressful than introducing a new pet to an angry cat that’s feeling displaced and totally stressed? I’ve done it many times and can confirm that if not done carefully, it can take weeks to correct. Especially if she’s hit or struck with claws out and the new kid on the block is now afraid.What does carefully look like? It’s taking a slow, patient approach to the initial face-to-face and it does require pre-planning.

New Study Links Dog Breed and Environment to Canine Obesity

Obesity in dogs is no joke, about half of U.S. dogs are overweight. A new study from Texas A&M University and the Dog Aging Project (DAP) digs deeper into why, pointing to breed, environment, and food motivation all working together.The researchers analyzed survey responses from over 50,000 dog families, paired with veterinary body condition scores submitted through the Dog Aging Project (DAP). What they uncovered is a complex tapestry of influences, but with clear lessons for pet owners.First up: breed. Dogs in the sporting group, mostly Labrador retrievers, Golden retrievers, spaniels, and setters, show a roughly 10% higher likelihood of being highly food‑motivated compared to mixes or non‑sporting breeds.In plain terms: these dogs love food, like, really love it, and are more likely to overeat. “Our study confirmed that dogs in the sporting group … have a greater likelihood to have high food motivation,” says Dr. Kate Creevy from Texas A&M’s College of Veterinary Medicine.Next: environment. Dogs living in cities, or in homes with multiple dogs, also tended to score higher in the food drive. That may be due to reduced daily exercise in urban settings or the ease of free‑feeding in multi‑dog homes, where meals might be left out all day for convenience. As Dr. Creevy puts it, “Some dogs may seek food out of boredom… owners with multiple dogs may choose certain feeding practices, including free feeding, which can lead to more food being available”.Interestingly, owners are more motivated to act when they recognize the dog is overweight, but often ignore it when the vet does. About one‑third of veterinary records in the study were missing a body condition score (BCS), a nine‑point scale vets use to assess fat coverage. And without that score, it’s harder to motivate real change. “A BCS plays a key role in helping veterinarians communicate with owners about their dog’s weight,” says Dr. Creevy.For sporting breeds like Labs and goldens, owners may need stricter portion control, more structured play and walks, and careful treat habits. City‑dwelling dogs might benefit from enrichment toys and scheduled outings to stave off boredom eating. Multi‑dog households may find individualized feeding routines helpful. And vets can improve outcomes by consistently including BCS in annual health records and educating owners on what healthy looks like.This aligns nicely with related genetic research. For example, Labradors have been shown to carry “hungry genes” like DENND1B, which not only influence hunger but also how many calories they burn at rest, and these genes overlap with similar genes in humans.As Dr. Eleanor Raffan from Cambridge explained: “Your dog’s genes are not their destiny, but it’s really hard work to keep a genetically predestined dog away from its destiny”.Dogs may beg, but science shows that behind those puppy eyes might be genes that push them toward overeating. Combine that with modern lifestyle traps, and it’s easy to see how chubby pups become the norm. But the good news is, it doesn’t have to stay that way. With breed‑aware feeding, thoughtful environment planning, and clear communication with your vet, you can help your dog stay vital, lean, and happy.After all, being a pet parent is all about caring deeply, and that means making choices that honor our dogs’ health, their genetic shape, and their zest for life. This study doesn’t just point out the problem; it empowers us to fix it.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How Do I Stop My Puppy from Biting?

Puppies are adorable, silly, and full of energy - but sometimes, their little needle teeth can be a lot to handle. If your new furry friend keeps using you as a chew toy, you’re definitely not alone.Why Do Puppies Bite?There are several reasons puppies bite:Exploration and play: Puppies use their mouths to interact with their environment, just as they did with their littermates.Teething discomfort: Between 3 and 6 months, puppies lose their baby teeth and grow adult ones. Chewing helps soothe sore gums.Excitement or frustration: Puppies are still learning impulse control. Sometimes, biting is just how they express big feelings.In a litter, puppies learn bite inhibition by playing with each other - when one bites too hard, the other yelps and stops playing. That’s where your training starts.Step 1: Teach That Biting Ends the FunIf your puppy bites you during play, let out a sharp, high-pitched “ow!” - mimicking the way littermates would react - and immediately stop the interaction. Turn away or walk out of the room for a few seconds.This teaches your puppy that biting ends the fun, and over time, they’ll begin to soften their bite - or stop entirely. And don't forget that consistency is key: every family member should react the same way so your puppy receives a clear message.Step 2: Redirect with Chew ToysAlways have appropriate chew toys on hand. If your puppy goes for your fingers or clothes, calmly offer a toy instead. This helps them learn what’s okay to chew.Try a variety of textures - plush toys for soft chewers, rubber toys for teething relief.Rotate toys to keep them interesting.Reinforce good choices by praising your pup when they chew the right thing.

Treating Parvovirus in Dogs with Monoclonal Antibodies

Canine parvovirus is a serious illness that can be fatal, and treating it is difficult. There’s good news, though, as researchers found a way to target the virus with monoclonal antibodies (mAb)—a step beyond merely managing symptoms.  The treatment is Canine Parvovirus Monoclonal Antibody (CPMA) from Elanco. Given as a one-time IV injection, it can be used with supportive care to help dogs get over the parvovirus and recover fully. It has been around since 2023 when it was conditionally approved. But, this past June, the USDA expanded access and made it possible to also use this medication to prevent infection in dogs who are exposed to the virus.

Why Dogs Circle Before Lying Down

Does your dog turn a few slow circles before finally plopping down to rest? It’s one of those quirky habits that almost every dog does, yet few people stop to wonder why. The truth is, this seemingly odd ritual is deeply rooted in instinct, biology, and comfort. Here’s what you need to know.

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How Do Cats Mark Their Territory?

Cats don’t just mark territory for the sake of claiming things - they do it to feel safe, reduce stress, and communicate with other cats. Territory marking can include physical actions like rubbing, scratching, or spraying, as well as more subtle cues like patrolling or lounging in favorite spots.Scent Glands and BuntingCats have scent glands in several parts of their body, including:CheeksChinForeheadPawsBase of the tailWhen a cat rubs its face against furniture, walls, or your leg, it’s not just being affectionate - it’s bunting, a behavior that deposits pheromones onto objects. These chemical signals tell other cats, “I’ve been here,” and help the marking cat feel more secure in its surroundings.Subtle Scent MarkingNot all marking is obvious. Cats also claim territory by:Rubbing their body along walls, furniture, or peopleRolling on the floor in familiar areasSleeping or lounging in favorite spotsPatrolling certain routes in the home or yardThese behaviors distribute their scent and help maintain a sense of ownership and comfort.Scratching: More Than Just Claw MaintenanceScratching isn’t just about keeping claws sharp - it’s also a key way cats mark their territory. Their paw pads contain scent glands, so when a cat scratches a surface, it’s leaving behind both a scent marker and visible signs. These scratches act as a dual message: a warning to other animals and a familiar signal that helps the cat feel more secure in its space. That’s why you’ll often see repeated scratching on furniture, door frames, or posts - those spots become regular territory markers in your cat’s environment.Spraying: A Stronger MessageUrine spraying is a more intense form of territorial marking and, for many owners, one of the more frustrating ones. It’s different from normal urination - when spraying, a cat typically stands upright and releases a small stream of urine onto a vertical surface. This behavior is especially common in unneutered males, but it can happen with any cat, particularly when they’re stressed or feeling territorial. Spraying may be triggered by changes in the environment, the presence of new pets, or even the sight or scent of outdoor cats. Neutering often helps reduce spraying by lowering hormone-driven behaviors, but it doesn’t always eliminate it entirely - especially if the cat feels its territory is being challenged.Visual Marking and PresenceIn addition to scent, cats leave visual signals. Scratched furniture or posts are a clear message to other cats, and simply spending time in a space also marks it. Outdoor cats, in particular, will often follow the same paths and rest in specific spots to reinforce their presence.

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What's the Best Way to Stop My Cat's Hairballs?

It’s a struggle nearly every cat parent has experienced at least once. You’re enjoying a quiet evening, curled up on the couch, when you suddenly hear that distinctive retching sound. Your heart sinks a little knowing what’s coming, and sure enough, there it is: a slimy gift on your once-clean rug. A hairball.The unwelcome by-product of your cat’s dedicated grooming habits. While they may be common, that doesn’t make them any less gross or, more importantly, any less concerning for your cat’s well-being. While an occasional hairball might be a normal part of living with a cat, frequent or problematic hairballs should be taken seriously.In this post, I will explain exactly why hairballs happen and the potential risks associated with them that you should be familiar with. More importantly, I’ll share steps you can take to significantly reduce their frequency and help your cat lead a more comfortable, hairball-free life.Why Hairballs FormTo tackle hairballs, you must first understand how they are created. It all begins with your cat’s grooming habits, a cornerstone of feline hygiene. Cats are renowned for their cleanliness, spending a significant portion of their day meticulously grooming themselves. This process isn’t just about looking good; it’s essential for their skin and coat health.Their secret weapon to effective grooming is their tongue. A cat’s tongue isn’t smooth like ours; it’s covered in tiny, backward-facing spines called papillae. These spines act like a natural brush, running through the fur as they lick, snagging loose and dead hair, dirt, and debris.The Journey of Ingested HairAs your cat grooms, a certain amount of this loose hair is inevitably swallowed. For the most part, this ingested hair will pass harmlessly through their digestive system and be expelled in their waste. This is the ideal scenario, and it happens without a hitch for many cats.However, sometimes the hair doesn’t make it all the way through. When a significant amount of hair accumulates in the stomach, it can clump together, forming a dense, compact mass that your cat’s digestive system can no longer process or pass. This is what we know as a hairball, or scientifically, a trichobezoar. At this point, your cat’s body recognizes that it is something that needs to be expelled, triggering the familiar retching, and you know the rest…Why Some Cats Form More Hairballs Than OthersWhile every cat grooms and ingests some hair, certain factors can significantly increase the likelihood that your cat will be unable to pass this hair, leading to hairball formation. This includes:Coat length and type: This is perhaps the most obvious factor. Long-haired breeds, like Maine Coons, Persians, or Ragdolls, naturally shed and ingest far more hair during grooming than their short-haired counterparts. More hair going in means a higher chance of a hairball forming.Shedding season: Just like us, cats experience seasonal shedding. During these high shedding periods, typically in spring and fall, the sheer volume of loose hair they ingest skyrockets, making hairballs more prevalent.Grooming habits: Sometimes, a cat may groom excessively, causing them to ingest more hair than usual. This over-grooming isn’t always about cleanliness. It can be a symptom of underlying issues like stress, anxiety, allergies, skin irritations, or even pain in a particular area. Addressing the root cause of the over-grooming is essential if you want to reduce hairballs.Underlying health issues: Less commonly, a cat’s digestive system might not function as it should. Conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), other digestive tract issues, parasites, or even dental problems that make eating uncomfortable can hinder the normal passage of the ingested hair through the intestines. This, of course, makes it more likely to accumulate in the stomach and form a hairball.When Hairballs Become a Concern Hairballs may not be a pleasant experience, but an occasional hairball is nothing to be too concerned about. However, as cat parents, we must learn how to recognize the fine line between a regular occurrence and a potential health concern.  Normal vs. Problematic HairballsFor most cats, especially those with longer coats or during shedding seasons, producing a small hairball every now and then can be expected. Think of it as their natural way of clearing out the ingested hair that didn’t make it through the digestive tract. However, if your cat starts producing hairballs frequently (for instance, several times a month or multiple times a week), you should consider it a red flag. Similarly, if the hairballs are unusually large or they are accompanied by other noticeable changes in your cat’s health or behavior, it’s time to pay closer attention. These are signs that something more might be going on, suggesting that your cat’s system isn’t processing the hair effectively. Signs of Serious Hairball Issues If you notice any of the following symptoms combined with, or in place of, frequent hairballs, it’s a strong indication that there may be bigger concerns requiring prompt vet attention: Frequent vomiting (beyond just hairballs): If your cat consistently throws up food or bile, even without producing a hairball, it suggests a broader digestive upset or other underlying medical issues. Straining to defecate or constipation: Hairballs can sometimes become lodged in the intestines, making it difficult for your cat to pass stool. You might notice them repeatedly trying to use the litter box unsuccessfully. Loss of appetite or weight loss: A significant decrease in food intake or noticeable weight loss is a serious red flag, often signaling a gastrointestinal blockage or other significant health issue causing discomfort. Lethargy or hiding: A sudden change in your cat’s energy levels, becoming unusually sluggish, withdrawn, or hiding more than usual, can be a sign of pain or illness. Persistent coughing or gagging (without producing a hairball): This symptom is particularly concerning, as it could be a sign of a partial obstruction in the throat or esophagus, or even a respiratory issue mimicking hairball attempts. Bloated or painful abdomen: A swollen, distended, or tender belly is a critical sign of a severe blockage or other abdominal problem. Diarrhea: While less commonly associated directly with hairballs, persistent diarrhea can also signal overall gut upset that might be contributing to or exacerbated by hairball issues. The Danger of Intestinal Blockages The most significant risk associated with hairballs is the potential for an intestinal blockage, also known as an obstruction. This occurs when a hairball becomes too large or dense to pass safely through the narrow space of your cat’s intestines, getting stuck and completely blocking the digestive tract. This isn’t just uncomfortable; it’s a genuine medical emergency that can quickly become life-threatening. An intestinal blockage prevents food and waste from moving through, leading to severe pain, dehydration, tissue damage, and potentially rupture of the intestine. If left untreated, it can be fatal. This medical emergency almost always requires immediate vet intervention, which often includes surgery to remove the obstruction. This is why it is so critical that cat parents learn to recognize the signs of trouble and seek veterinary care without delay if they suspect something may be wrong.

Study Reveals Some Dog Breeds Are More Likely to Get Diarrhea

Few things are as awful as diarrhea and seeing your pooch in gastrointestinal distress. Unfortunately, most dogs are diagnosed with diarrhea at least once in their lifetime. Like in people, diarrhea in dogs is loose or unformed stool. Dogs suffering from diarrhea usually pass large amounts of loose stool more often than usual. Diarrhea by itself isn’t a disease, but rather a symptom of many different conditions. Loose stool caused by minor health problems is often resolved quickly with a simple treatment and a change of diet. However, diarrhea can also be a sign of serious, life-threatening conditions like organ failure or cancer, so it’s important to take your pooch to be examined by a vet. Even diarrhea caused by a minor illness can get out of hand if not treated in time. A new study, published in the open journal PLOS One, suggests that some breeds may be more prone to diarrhea than others. Researchers from the United Kingdom’s Royal Veterinary College analyzed the health records of more than two million dogs brought to the vet in the U.K. in 2019. Researchers estimate that one in 12, or 8,18%, dogs were diagnosed with diarrhea at some point during the year. The study found six breeds - Maltese, miniature poodle, German shepherd, cavapoo, cockapoo, and Yorkshire terrier - were considerably more likely to be diagnosed with diarrhea. Only two breeds - Jack Russel terrier and Chihuahua - were less likely to be diagnosed with diarrhea. Researchers believe these breeds may have higher and lower susceptibility to diarrhea. However, they can’t rule out the fact that different breeds have different diets, and even owners with different likelihoods of taking their dog to the vet in case the dog gets diarrhea. The study also showed that dogs who were three years and younger, as well as pooches aged nine and over, were more likely to be diagnosed with diarrhea than four or five-year-old dogs. Researchers weren’t surprised by these results, considering that older dogs are more likely to get diarrhea from complications related to aging, and younger dogs are extremely curious and more likely to eat something they shouldn’t, resulting in diarrhea and other digestive issues. Moreover, many dogs with diarrhea were also diagnosed with other issues at the same time. About 44% experienced vomiting, 28% had reduced appetite, and 24% were lethargic. Of all the cases analyzed, 29% were classified as hemorrhagic, meaning those dogs suffered from bloody diarrhea. The good news is that most dogs recover quickly from diarrhea. Over 80% of dogs in the study only needed one visit to the vet. However, researchers also found that 38% of dogs with diarrhea were treated with antibiotics, even though experts advise against using antibiotics in dogs with mild and moderate cases of diarrhea. “Experiencing the dreaded ‘poonami’ with your dog is one of those events any dog owner fears. This new study shows that diarrhea events are very common in dogs but that owners should not panic - no matter how bad the deluge, most dogs will recover in a few days after veterinary treatment,” said Dr. Dan O’Neill, Associate Professor of Companion Animal Epidemiology at RVC and co-author of the study.In most cases, diarrhea isn’t a medical emergency, although it may start to feel like it after you had to take your dog outside to poop for a third time in less than an hour. Even if your dog seems like their usual self, minus the diarrhea, book an appointment with your vet. With a simple treatment, your pup will be back to its usual pooping schedule before you know it. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

3 Heartwarming Stories of Rescue Dogs Finding Their Forever Homes

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