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

Things to Consider Before Getting a Guinea Pig

There’s so much to like about guinea pigs. They’re super cute, they make a range of adorable sounds, and they’re small enough to fit in your hands. But even though you might be tempted to bring one home, there’s a lot to consider before you do.

5 Essential Tips for Looking After Ferrets

Ferrets are playful, intelligent, and curious animals that make wonderful pets for the right owners. However, they have unique needs and require dedicated care to ensure they stay happy and healthy. Whether you're a new ferret owner or considering adopting one, here are five essential tips for looking after your ferret.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you. 

Pets Can Get Sunburned Too - Here’s What You Need to Know

Most pet owners know the dangers of overheating and hot pavement during summer, but there’s another seasonal risk that often flies under the radar: sunburn. While it’s common to think of sunburn as a human problem, animals, especially dogs and cats, can suffer the same painful effects of too much sun exposure.And it’s more than just an occasional red nose. Prolonged sun exposure can lead to peeling, inflammation, long-term skin damage, and in some cases, even skin cancer in pets.“Pets with light-colored fur or thin coats are particularly at risk,” warns Peony Melbourne, a veterinary surgeon with the RCVS in the UK. “Areas like the nose, ears, and belly are especially vulnerable, these spots aren’t protected by fur and can burn easily.”Sunburn tends to affect areas where an animal’s fur is thin or absent, such as the tips of the ears, the nose, the belly, and around the eyes. Animals with light-colored fur or pink skin are at the highest risk, as are certain breeds with very short or sparse coats. Hairless breeds, such as the Chinese Crested dog or Sphynx cat, are particularly vulnerable, although even well-coated pets can be at risk in certain areas.The most common signs of sunburn in pets include reddened or warm skin, excessive licking or scratching at the affected area, sensitivity to touch, or visible peeling. In more severe cases, skin may blister or scab, which can require medical treatment.According to veterinary professionals, the best way to protect pets is to limit their exposure to direct sunlight during peak UV hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If pets are outside during these hours, access to shade is crucial.In addition to minimizing sun exposure, pet-safe sunscreen is another line of defense. These products are formulated without ingredients toxic to animals, such as zinc oxide or certain essential oils, both of which are commonly found in human sunscreens. Sunscreen made specifically for pets can be applied to high-risk areas like the nose, ears, and belly. Some formulations come in wipes or sticks, making application less of a battle.For pets who spend extended time outdoors, whether hiking, at the beach, or just lounging in the yard, lightweight UV-protective clothing is becoming more common. These garments are especially helpful for dogs with exposed skin or recent hair loss due to surgery or allergies.Although most sunburns are mild and heal with time, they should not be ignored. Owners who notice any unusual redness, discomfort, or behavior changes in their pets after sun exposure should contact a veterinarian. Self-treatment with home remedies is not recommended, as many over-the-counter products can be harmful if licked or absorbed.Heat stress is also a concern during summer months, and it often goes hand in hand with sunburn. Ensuring pets have access to fresh water, cool resting spots, and ventilation can prevent more serious complications like heatstroke.While the idea of sunburn in pets may seem surprising, the truth is that animals are not immune to the same environmental risks humans face. As more research focuses on pet skin health, veterinarians hope awareness will grow.In short, if you’re applying sunscreen before heading outside, it might be time to think about your pet, too. A few simple precautions can make all the difference—and help keep those noses pink, but not burned.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

What Are the Best Beginner Birds for Pet Owners?

Birds can make wonderful companions, bringing color, intelligence, and lively energy into a home. But if you're considering your first feathered friend, choosing the right species is important. Some birds are naturally easier to care for, while others require more time, experience, and patience.For beginners, it's essential to consider a bird’s temperament, noise level, social needs, and care requirements. To help you get started, here are five bird species that make great pets for first-time owners. Budgerigar (Budgie)

Study Confirms Pets Are Better Social Media Influencers than People

Social media accounts of cats and dogs promoting products have an upper hand when it comes to trustworthiness, a new study shows. In recent years, our four-legged companions have become extremely popular on social media. Some are so popular that they have amassed millions of followers on their social media accounts. This trend has created a new word - petfluencer, a domestic animal that has a dedicated social media account where its owner posts about it. Some petfluencers have become famous, generating an impressive income. The world’s richest cat, Nala, is probably the best example. With 4.4 million followers on Instagram, Nala Cat has an estimated net worth of $100 million.But what makes cats and dogs better influencers than people? A new study found that petfluencers have an unexpected edge over human influencers in terms of trustworthiness. The study, published in The Journal of Advertising Research, examines how animals’ endorsements of brands, as seen in petfluencer accounts, affect consumer response. Researchers from the University of Strathclyde in Scotland analyzed what makes petfluencers successful by comparing them to human influencers. For this study, researchers created fictional advertisements for products like peanut butter and wine. When these advertisements were shown to an audience, the results were surprising, but clear - petfluencer has surpassed the human influencer in terms of consumer response.The study also found petfluencers to be even more effective when their message matched a consumer’s focus on immediate satisfaction and pleasure. Researchers also discovered that the number of sponsored posts affects an influencer’s perceived sincerity. As the number of sponsored posts by human influencers increases, their perceived sincerity is declining, likely because of “influencer fatigue”.Human influencers are often seen in a negative light if their persuasive intent is clearer if people believe they endorse products and brands they don’t use or believe in just to get paid. According to the researchers, this is most likely the reason why petfluencers could be a good alternative for more sincere endorsements. On the other hand, pets aren’t obsessed with material things and offer a more genuine alternative to human influencers, and brands have started to notice their value. More advertising agencies are turning to petfluencers to promote brands, and they often earn as much as their human counterparts. “Petfluencers offer distinct advantages compared to human social media influencers,” said Dr. Laura Laverty, study author and lecturer in Marketing at the University of Strathclyde. “While the persuasiveness of human influencers often stems from their relatability or aspirational appeal, petfluencers are seen as more genuine and sincere. Because they are pets, they have no hidden agenda,” she explained.Pets don’t come with the baggage or scandals that follow some human influencers, which makes them seem more trustworthy. Although petfluencer accounts may appear like they are managed by the pets themselves, they are often run transparently by the pet’s owner. Like human influencers, petfluencers often work with advertising agencies to handle brand partnerships, while staying in charge of the type of content they post. Famous petfluencers like Nala Cat are in high demand and endorse a large number of products. For example, Nala the cat recommends an array of products, from cat food to mobile games. The research team believes future studies will validate their findings and explore the growing presence and influence of pets in social media. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Study Finds Most Pet Owners Underestimate the Lifetime Care Costs

We love our pets and treat them as members of the family, but owning a four-legged companion can get costly. Furthermore, the lifetime cost of owning a pet has increased, according to a new study conducted by Synchrony, a financial company.Synchrony’s Lifetime of Pet Care study found that nearly eight in 10 U.S. pet owners underestimate the lifetime cost of caring for their pet. The report also shows that lifetime care costs have increased significantly since 2022, by 11,65% for dogs and 19,4% for cats. This increase reflects a growing investment in veterinary care, technology, and wellness products. The study, which surveyed 4,861 U.S. pet parents, found that caring for a dog over a 15-year period can cost between $22,125 and $60,602. Meanwhile, caring for a cat over a 15-year period is estimated to cost from $20,073 to $47,106. For the first time, the study also included the lifetime care costs for small animals, such as guinea pigs, hamsters, and rabbits. Caring for pocket pets over a six-year lifespan can cost between $7,600 and $14,938.Most pet owners, however, estimated much lower spending. According to Synchrony’s report, dog owners expect to spend only $8,000 on their pups’ lifetime care, while cat owners estimate spending just $6,000 on lifetime care costs. “Pets enrich our lives in countless ways, and it’s natural for pet owners to want to provide them with the best possible care,” said Jonathan Wainberg, senior vice president and general manager of Synchrony’s pet division. “Our research shows that while 60% of dog owners, 61% of cat owners, and 59% of ‘pocket-pet’ owners see them as family, many are unaware of the actual financial commitment.”The report also uncovered increased financial worry among pet parents, with 48% saying they feel anxious about unexpected expenses. Although 74% of owners report they’ve had unexpected pet care costs over $250, only 31% admit they could comfortably cover a large veterinary bill. A growing number of pet owners, 58% revealed they used a credit card to pay for their pet’s veterinary expenses. Meanwhile, only 20% of dog and cat owners reported having emergency savings or insurance to cover unexpected veterinary bills. Cats are becoming increasingly popular as pets, with 37% of U.S. households reporting owning a feline. The increase in cat ownership is responsible for the increase in tech spending, which has doubled since 2022.More and more cat owners are opting for products like automated cat feeders and litter boxes. According to the report, cat owners are now spending between $350 and $480 on high-tech products for their cats.Dog owners, on the other hand, are spending more on wellness plans and health insurance, contributing to the overall rise in care costs. An average dog owner spends $701 a year on wellness plans for their pooch and $313 a year on dog insurance. “The best asset you can give your pet is their health,” said Dr. Courtney Campbell, board-certified veterinary surgeon. “Preventative care is the bedrock of a vibrant life. If we can prevent costly emergencies before they start, we can help ensure a lifetime of joy and comfort for our multi-species family members.” Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Chubby Rescue Cat Arrives at Shelter ‘Too Large’ for the Scale

As a volunteer in the rescue space, you see many things – the heartwarming reunions, the shy pets slowly coming out of their shells, and sometimes, the cases that really make you pause. When Big Bertha arrived at Jefferson County Humane Society in late February, she was definitely one of those cases. Even for a seasoned volunteer who has seen animals in various states of health, the sheer size of this sweet girl was startling! This wasn’t just a chunky feline; Bertha, with her petite frame and short legs, weighed in at a shocking 21 pounds – so large, in fact, that the standard cat scale at the shelter couldn’t even register her weight. They had to resort to the dog scale to get an initial reading. Upon arrival, it was clear that Bertha was facing many health issues directly linked to her size. The shelter’s vet team immediately got to work on creating a carefully managed weight loss plan that included specialized wound care and a gentle exercise regimen. In the early days of her workouts, she would be aided by a sling to support her movement, allowing her to burn calories without putting too much strain on her petite frame. The road to recovery was expected to be long, but the entire shelter team fell in love with Bertha, committing to do the work necessary to help her regain her health and quality of life. Bertha’s previous owner made the difficult decision to surrender her to the shelter, recognizing their inability to provide the necessary care, especially the extensive veterinary attention she clearly needed. “Her mouth was full of infected, loose, broken teeth,” explained Brandi DeNoon-Damewood, the development manager at the shelter. “Most kitties with teeth this bad are very thin from lack of appetite and pain with chewing. However, Bertha only ate soft/canned food that she could easily slurp down, and as her pain increased, she ate more and more – just like humans, kitties can become addicted to the happy feeling we get with a full belly. It is believed that she was a street kitty prior to her owner, which also helps shed a little light onto her food guarding and overeating. She may have gone days without any food whatsoever, and those days are forever carried with her throughout the rest of her life.” A significant step in Bertha’s journey was dental surgery shortly after her arrival. This addressed her painful mouth, not only for her comfort but also paved the way for a healthier relationship with food. Initially, Bertha struggled with breathing and mobility due to her weight, and she was understandably quiet and fearful. However, as the pounds began to come off, a beautiful transformation occurred. “She LOVES to ‘talk,’ and when she wants attention, she will call out for you to come over to her,” DeNoon-Damewood shared, noting that this vocalization was likely a learned behavior that she developed due to her limited mobility. “Her purrrrsonality has blossomed into a vibrant, social, loving kitty.” By the end of March, Bertha had reached a significant milestone, weighing in at 16 pounds. While she still had more weight to lose, this progress meant she was ready to take the next step in her journey – finding a forever home. At the beginning of April, she was adopted by a loving individual committed to continuing her weight loss journey and providing her with a lifetime of love and care. Bertha’s story is a powerful reminder of the complex factors that can lead to a pet being surrendered and the importance of shelters and rescue organizations for those in need. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

3 Things That Might Be Causing Your Dog To Dig Up Your Yard

If you’re a dog owner who’s ever walked outside to find craters scattered across your lawn, you’re not alone. Digging is a natural behavior for dogs, but it can quickly become frustrating. Before you can put a stop to the behavior, it helps to understand why your dog might be digging. Here are three of the most common reasons.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Your Dog Will Love These Easy DIY Pumpkin Oat Treats

Looking for a healthy, no-fuss dog treat that’s gentle on your pup’s tummy? These DIY pumpkin oat dog treats are the perfect solution. Made with just a few pantry staples, they’re quick to whip up and packed with fiber, flavor, and tail-wagging goodness.

The Best Hacks for Getting a Sick Dog to Eat

How to Build a Bond with Your New Rescue Dog

Bringing home a rescue dog is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have - for both you and your new companion. But it’s also a big transition, especially for dogs who may have experienced abandonment, neglect, or trauma in their past.That’s why building a strong bond with your rescue dog isn’t something that happens overnight. It takes time, patience, and a whole lot of understanding. But with the right approach, you’ll create something truly special: a trusting, lifelong relationship rooted in love.Here’s how to begin that journey, one step at a time.Start with Space and PatienceThe first few days in a new home can be overwhelming for a rescue dog. Everything is unfamiliar - sights, sounds, smells, and people - and it can cause real anxiety.One of the best things you can do? Give your dog space to adjust.Let them explore the home at their own paceSet up a quiet, cozy area where they can retreatAvoid forcing interaction or physical affectionSome dogs will come to you right away. Others need time to feel safe. Let them set the pace.Establish a Calm, Predictable RoutineDogs thrive on routine - especially those recovering from unstable pasts. A regular schedule helps create a sense of safety and predictability.Try to:Feed at the same times each dayKeep walks, bathroom breaks, and playtime consistentOffer a regular bedtime or wind-down ritualThe more predictable life becomes, the more confident and secure your dog will feel.Use Positive ReinforcementWhen it comes to training and bonding, positive reinforcement is your best friend.Reward good behavior with treats, praise, or gentle affectionKeep training sessions short and low-pressureCelebrate the little wins - sitting, coming when called, or just making eye contactAvoid punishment or harsh corrections. Fear-based methods can damage trust, especially with dogs who may already be unsure of people.

3 Unexpected Things Dog Owners Get In Trouble For

Most dog owners know the basic rules: keep your dog on a leash, clean up after them, and make sure they don’t bark too much. But there are other, less obvious ways you can get into trouble with your dog, too.In this article, we’ll take a quick look at three unexpected things dog owners often get in trouble for, even when they don’t mean to! 

What is Scent Work for Dogs?

Are you looking for new activities and events to enjoy with your pup? If so, you may want to explore the world of scent work! It’s a fun and engaging activity that allows your dog to tap into their natural abilities. It’s a great opportunity to build your bond and boost confidence through a rewarding game. If you really love it, there are even opportunities to get involved with scent work on a competitive level!In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to get started in scent work today, including a better understanding of what scent work involves, the benefits of this game for your dog, and step-by-step instructions to get started with this activity in your own home. What are you waiting for?What Is Scent Work? To truly appreciate scent work and the benefits it offers for your dog, we first need to understand the basics. This starts with the instrument at its core: a dog’s nose. The Master Tool That Is Your Dog’s Nose Your dog’s nose is more than just an adorable boopable button; it’s a masterpiece of evolution that helps them navigate the world around them. Its power is almost unbelievable! While humans have approximately 5 million scent receptors, our dogs possess 125 million to 300 million, depending on the breed. This means they can experience a world of smells that is far more detailed than anything we can even begin to imagine. They detect odors at concentrations that aren’t even noticeable to us. In addition to the number of scent receptors, the structure of your dog’s nose improves their powerful smelling abilities. When they breathe in, a fold of tissues separates the air into two distinct pathways: one for breathing and one exclusively for those receptors to detect smells. These two pathways allow them to breathe and analyze scents at the same time. They also have a specialized organ called a “vomeronasal organ” (or Jacobson’s organ) at the roof of their mouth, which detects specific scents like pheromones and other chemical signals. When all of this works together, dogs can discriminate and identify individual odors even when they are mixed together with many others. Imagine walking into a busy kitchen filled with the smells of coffee, toast, and bacon. A human nose might just smell “breakfast.” Your dog’s nose, however, can identify the coffee, the specific type of bread, and even differentiate between bacon and sausage. This incredible ability is why scent work is why they are so skilled at detecting specific substances. The Basics of Scent WorkScent work is an activity that leverages this incredible power of smell by turning it into a structured search game. At the heart of scent work is the “target odor.” This is the specific scent that your dog is trained to find. Traditional scent work often focuses on essential oils like birch, anise, or clove, diluted to a specific (and safe to smell) concentration. However, for home-based fun, a target odor can be anything from a high-value treat or specific toy to a unique household item like your car keys. The key is that the dog learns to associate this particular scent with a reward. It’s also important to note that scent doesn’t just sit still; it moves. As air moves through or over a hidden scent source, it can create a “scent cone” or “plume,” a trail of odor that disperses into the surrounding environment. Dogs are masters at finding and navigating these plums, following the scent back to the source. They learn to identify the strongest point of the scent, which leads them directly to the hidden item. An important concept to understand in scent work is the difference between the actual source of the smell (where the target odor or item is located) and contamination (residual scent left behind as the item was moved or handled). Through their training, dogs learn to indicate only at the source, ignoring the weaker contamination, but this precision takes time and practice. At its roots, scent work is a search game. You hide the target odor, and your dog uses their nose to find it. When they do so successfully, they are rewarded. This simple concept is the foundation of all scent work, from casual home activities to competitive trials. The joy for your dog comes from the hunt and the reward. For the handler, the joy comes from watching your dog engage in an activity that is fun and naturally fulfilling. The Benefits of Scent Work for Your Dog Scent work is a great way to keep your dog busy (we all know how important that is, especially if you have a young, active puppy or a high-energy dog at home). But it’s more than that! It impacts their mental, emotional, and even physical well-being, helping to give them the best possible quality of life. Here are some of the benefits it offers: Mental Stimulation and Enrichment Scent work is often described as a “brain game” because it requires your dog to use their mental abilities, including problem-solving, concentration, decision-making, and memory. Unlike physical exercise, which tires the body, scent work is a form of mental enrichment that tires the mind out in a highly satisfying way. In fact, a dog who has spent 15-20 minutes intensely searching for scents will often be as tired, if not more so, than a dog that has had a long walk! Many common behavioral problems people face with their dogs, such as destructive chewing, excessive barking, or digging, can be traced back to boredom and a lack of appropriate outlets for their pent-up mental and physical energy. Scent work gives your dog a constructive and engaging activity to channel their energy into, which goes a long way in preventing these unwanted behaviors.

My Dog Broke A Nail, Now What?

Seeing your pup showing signs of pain is never easy, and the sight of blood can be particularly alarming. While a broken nail may not seem like a major source of alarm, that one small injury can introduce a lot of discomfort (and blood). But take a deep breath; you’re not alone in facing this common struggle.This blog post is designed to be an informative guide, walking you through the essential steps to take when your dog breaks a nail to relieve pain and prevent further complications. With the proper knowledge and a little care, most broken nail situations can be managed effectively, allowing your pup to get back on their paws in no time.First Aid for Dog Nail Injuries When you discover your dog has broken a nail, remain calm. Your dog may be in pain and feeling anxious. By staying calm and composed, you will help prevent further distress and avoid a possible accidental injury to you. Speak in a soothing voice and move slowly. If your dog is particularly sensitive to pain or tends to react defensively when hurt, you may wish to enlist the help of another person to gently restrain them. In situations where you’re concerned about being bitten, having a properly fitted muzzle on hand can ensure everyone stays safe while you administer first aid. Stop the BleedingBroken nails often bleed because they contain a blood vessel known as the quick. You'll likely see some blood if the break occurs above this point. The first step in managing this injury is to stop the bleeding quickly. When dealing with any type of bleeding, your first line of defense is to apply direct pressure. Use a clean cloth or a piece of gauze and firmly press it against the bleeding nail for several minutes, often longer than you may initially think. Resist the temptation to check frequently, as removing the pressure can disrupt the clotting process. For persistent bleeding, styptic powder or a styptic pencil is an effective solution. We ensure we always have at least one of the two in our pet-friendly first aid kit. Styptic powder contains ingredients that help constrict blood vessels and promote clotting. To use it, apply a small amount directly to the bleeding area of the nail. A styptic pencil works similarly; wet the tip slightly to activate it and gently press it against the bleeding directly. If you don’t have styptic powder or a pencil on hand, some common alternatives that dog parents will reach for are cornstarch and flour. They can help absorb blood and encourage clotting. The easiest way to use these is to put some into a small container and then place the broken nail in it, maintaining pressure to give the blood time to clot. Remember, patience is key during this step; the bleeding may take several minutes to stop. Assessing the Damage Look closely at the broken nail once the bleeding has stopped or significantly slowed. Is it a clean break near the tip? Is it a partial tear that’s still attached? Is the quick exposed, leaving a raw and sensitive area? Take note of any visible debris, such as dirt, splinters, or fragments of the nail itself. Your findings will help you decide on the best course of action to prevent further damage and whether you need to contact your vet. Initial Cleaning (If Possible and Safe)If your dog tolerates examining their paw and the bleeding is under control, you may be able to gently clean the area. Use lukewarm water to carefully rinse the paw and the broken nail. This can help to remove any loose dirt or debris that may be there. Avoid using any harsh antiseptics like hydrogen peroxide or alcohol at this stage, as they can be irritating to the exposed injury and potentially delay healing. The goal of this initial cleaning is simply to remove any obvious dirt that could contribute to further pain and discomfort. Your vet can do a more thorough cleaning if necessary. Understanding the Risks of Dog Nail Injuries While the immediate sight of blood from a broken nail can be alarming, the potential risks extend beyond this initial shock. Here are a few additional risks to be aware of: Pain and DiscomfortEven if you manage to stop the bleeding quickly, your dog can still experience significant pain and discomfort. The nail bed contains sensitive nerve endings, and a break, especially if it leaves the quick exposed, can create a very painful situation for your pup. Every time your dog puts pressure on the affected paw, they may feel a sharp or throbbing pain, leading to limping or a reluctance to walk or put weight on that leg. InfectionA break in the nail creates an open wound, providing an entry point for bacteria and fungal organisms that they may encounter in the environment. Simple things like walking on the ground, contact with dirt and debris, or even your dog’s own licking can introduce pathogens into the wound. Recognizing the signs of infection is crucial to addressing it as quickly as possible. Keep an eye out for the following red flags: Redness Swelling around the nail bedPus or discharge Increased pain or sensitivityWarmth to the touch Fever Lethargy Partially Broken Nails A partially broken nail poses its own set of risks to your pup. The jagged edge can easily catch on carpets, furniture, or outdoor surfaces, leading to further tearing of the nail and increased pain for your dog. Ongoing Irritation of the AreaThe irritation and discomfort can also trigger excessive licking or chewing at the affected paw. While your dog may be trying to soothe their pain, this behavior can make the problem worse by introducing more bacteria and potentially leading to self-inflicted wounds around the paw. Mobility Concerns In more severe cases, a broken nail can significantly impact your dog’s mobility. The pain and discomfort can make it difficult for them to engage in their usual activities, such as walking, running, and playing. This not only impacts their physical well-being but can also negatively impact their overall happiness and quality of life. Imagine being a high-energy dog who no longer has a safe outlet for all that energy.

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

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

How Hot is Too Hot for Your Cat?

Summer is officially here, bringing longer days, beautiful sunshine, and that relaxed summer holiday atmosphere that we all look forward to. But while you’re busy enjoying the warmth, your cat may be dealing with a different experience. Unlike humans, cats aren’t efficient at regulating their body temperature, making them highly susceptible to overheating, even in temperatures that you may consider comfortable. As cat parents, it’s absolutely crucial that we understand the risks of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, learn to recognize the subtle warning signs, and be prepared to react appropriately. In this guide, I’ll explain exactly how hot is too hot for cats, provide you with the information necessary to keep your cat safe, and share some practical tips for keeping them cool on even the hottest summer days. After all, we want them to enjoy their summer vacation, too! Understanding How Heat Affects Your Cat The first step in keeping your cat safe is understanding how their body responds to and interacts with heat, especially extreme heat, and why they are so vulnerable to overheating. When the temperatures climb, humans sweat to cool down. Our cats, however, have a harder time regulating their body temperature and staying comfortable. What is Considered Normal Cat Body Temperature? A healthy cat’s normal body temperature ranges between 100.4∘F and 102.5∘F (38∘C and 39.2∘C). This may seem a bit higher than expected because it’s higher than what is considered normal, but their bodies do generally run warmer. If your cat’s temperature rises beyond this range, their body has to work harder to cool it back down. If they are unable to get back to a healthy temperature quickly enough, they could face severe health conditions, such as heat exhaustion and ultimately, heat stroke. How Cats Regulate Temperature (And Why It’s Limited)While cats don’t sweat like people, there are a few natural ways they may try to cool themselves off. However, it’s essential that we recognize these methods of cooling and regulating body temperature are significantly less efficient, leaving them vulnerable to overheating. Panting: Dogs are known to pant heavily when they need to cool down. With cats, panting isn’t as common and usually means a more serious situation – they are highly stressed, in pain, or significantly overheating. If you see your cat panting, it’s a red flag. Sweating: Previously, I said that cats don’t sweat like humans, but they do have a few (very few) sweat glands. These are primarily found on their paw pads. You may occasionally see damp paw prints on a cool surface if your cat is hot, and they can help a tiny bit, but they aren’t effective as a major cooling strategy for the entire body. Grooming/Saliva Evaporation: Cats often groom themselves when they’re feeling overheated. As the saliva evaporates from their fur, it offers an evaporative cooling effect, similar to how sweat evaporating off our skin cools us. Seeking Shade/Cool Surfaces: The most common way a cat will try to cool down is by seeking out a shaded, cool environment. For example, they may try stretching out on a cool tile or hardwood floor. While this helps, it’s often not enough in truly hot temperatures. So, How Hot is Too Hot for Cats? There isn’t a single “magic number” that makes an environment too hot for every cat. Instead, there are many different individual factors that will play a role. However, a general rule of thumb is that temperatures of 80°F (26.7°C) and higher are considered risky for most cats. This is especially true if combined with these risk factors: High Humidity: This makes it harder for evaporative cooling methods (such as panting and saliva evaporation) to work effectively, trapping heat in the body. A 70°F day with high humidity can be more dangerous than an 80°F day with low humidity.Enclosed Spaces: When discussing this topic, we typically refer to the life-threatening risk of leaving a cat in a parked car. Even for “just a minute” with the windows cracked, the temperatures inside can rise quickly turning the vehicle into an oven. But this also applies to unventilated rooms, sunrooms, or carriers left in direct sunlight. Individual Sensitivity: Just like people, some cats are going to be more susceptible to heat than others. This is why it’s so important for cat parent to get to know their cats, their usual behaviors, and their comfort levels. Is Your Cat at High Risk for Heat Exhaustion?While any cat can suffer from heat exhaustion or heat stroke, there are some that are at a significantly higher risk of overheating. Consider whether your cat fits into any of the following high-risk groups: Age: Very young kittens and senior cats are less efficient at regulating their body temperatures, making them more susceptible to extreme temperatures. Brachycephalic (Flat-Faced) Breeds: Cat breeds with flatter faces, like Persians, Himalayans, and Exotic Shorthairs, are particularly susceptible to overheating. Their facial structure means they have shortened airways, making it more difficult for them to breathe efficiently, which in turn makes it harder for them to cool themselves through panting. Coat Types: A dense coat can offer some insulation against heat. However, long-haired or dense-coated cats can struggle more in high temperatures, especially if their undercoat isn’t regularly groomed out. Activity Level: Overly active or playful cats are at risk of pushing themselves too hard in a hot environment, which can cause their internal temperature to rise. Health Conditions: Cats with underlying health issues, such as heart disease, respiratory problems (like asthma), obesity, or arthritis (which limits their ability to move to cooler spots), are at an increased risk. If your cat falls into any one (or multiple) of these high-risk categories, knowledge is power. Recognizing that they are more vulnerable to overheating is the first step in taking the steps necessary to keep them safe and healthy.

9 Signs Your Pet Is Trying to Tell You Something Important

Pets communicate with us all the time, it just doesn’t involve words. From changes in behavior to subtle body language, they have their own ways of letting us know when something’s wrong or when they need something.Being able to recognize those signs can help you catch health or emotional issues early on.Here are 9 signs your pet might be trying to tell you something important. 

These 5 Farm Animals Make Great Pets

Farm animals are often associated with open fields and rural life, but many of them also make surprisingly affectionate, intelligent, and fun companions. While they're not your typical house pets, some farm animals can thrive in backyards or hobby farms with the right care and space. Here are five farm animals that make great pets.