The Future of Pet Care: How PetSafe® Tech Is Making Homes Smarter

New Study Reveals Some Dogs Are Genuinely Toy-Addicted

The terms “ball junkie” and “chewie addict” are quite popular among dog parents, loving nicknames for our dogs who live and breathe their favorite toy. I’m guilty of using the first to refer to my ball-loving pup, Lucifer, on many occasions! We laugh it off, but what if there was a deeper truth to the joke?According to a new study published in the journal Scientific Reports, those adorable personality quirks may be backed by science!The research found that some highly motivated dogs demonstrate “addiction-like tendencies” towards toys. They are behaviors that mirror those seen in humans dealing with addictions like gambling.Previously, conversations were often written off as anthropomorphism, which Merriam-Webster defines as “an interpretation of what is not human or personal in terms of human or personal characteristics.” It means viewing our dogs' actions through the lens of human emotions and thought processes. However, this is the first study to apply the accepted scientific criteria associated with human addiction to our canine friends.To explore this, researchers recruited 105 highly play-motivated dogs and their parents, then put them through a series of 14 tests to measure their fixation on toys. Each test was created to highlight and observe different scientific criteria for addiction in the pups.In one test, after a minute of play, the dog’s favorite toy was placed on a shelf where the pup couldn’t reach it. The dog parents were then instructed to try to engage their pup in other activities. The researchers watched their reactions, noting that some dogs responded with behaviors showing that they were unable to shift their focus away from the toy, such as repeatedly spinning, jumping, or barking towards where it had been put away.Another test required the dogs to choose between a secured favorite toy and a nearby food puzzle. Two of the dogs who participated were so intensely motivated to reach their toy that they became destructive, breaking through the box that held it.The study found that 33 of the participating dogs displayed concerning addiction-like tendencies.One interesting finding was that shepherd breeds, such as German Shepherds and Belgian Shepherds, had the highest addiction scores. This suggests a genetic component to this behavior, as these breeds were historically bred for high focus and specialized working tasks like police work and livestock protection.For pet parents who are focused on their best friend’s quality of life (which I’m sure is most of you reading an article like this), the study offers some interesting findings that could help us better meet their needs.Lead author Alja Mazzini noted that dogs with high addiction-like scores “really can’t relax after the toys are out of reach or gone.” More concerning is the fact they may continue to play even when injured, refuse to take a break, or skip drinking water. These are all behaviors that pose a real threat to a dog’s health and immediate well-being.While the study is exploratory and further research is needed to draw solid conclusions, it offers insight into the minds of our toy-loving pups. Being aware of the risks associated with this level of toy fixation, we can make changes to our playtime routines to keep their safety in mind.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

Is a Cat or a Dog the Right Pet for You?

Choosing between a cat and a dog is one of the most common dilemmas for prospective pet owners. Both animals offer companionship, lots of joy, and unconditional love, but their personalities, care needs, and lifestyle compatibility can be hugely different. Here are important things to consider before making your decision. 

Dog Lost in the Woods? Here's How to Find Him Quickly!

(photo credit: StockPhotoArt / shutterstock.com)Don’t you love the heartwarming stories of dogs that are found after being lost for days, weeks, months and even years? Or the ones that travel hundreds of miles to make it home to their families? While they’re definitely upbeat, feel-good stories, make no mistake, I’m determined to avoid ever having to experience the anxious waiting and worry that those pet parents would have had to endure. And unlike losing a dog in a populated, urban area, having them go missing when away from home or worse, in the wild, takes on a whole new sense of urgency.My guess is that many pet owners would be hard-pressed to say their pooch had the survival instincts needed to get through more than a few days without food, water, shelter, and warmth. Not to mention having the innate skills needed to evade predatory wildlife.So, when you’re in the great outdoors, keeping your dog visible and/or within calling range is important, but equally so is knowing how to quickly track him down when he takes off and isn’t responding to your calls.PreventionAccording to the American Kennel Club (AKC), the first step in safeguarding your pet from becoming lost is to prevent it from ever happening, and that includes:- microchipping- using GPS collars- training- leashing or securingWhile micro-chipping is a no-brainer in an urban environment where a good Samaritan can find your little buddy and take them to a local vet or animal services for scanning, it’s not an option when you’re in a heavily rural or wilderness area.

Why is My Cat Not Grooming?

It’s a subtle shift that’s often easy to miss in the busy hustle and bustle of our days, but when your cat suddenly stops meticulously grooming themselves, it could be a red flag that something’s happening that requires your attention. For cats, grooming isn’t merely about maintaining a pristine appearance; it’s essential to their health, hygiene, and overall well-being. A sudden change in this self-care behavior could indicate anything from mild discomfort to a serious underlying medical concern.This post will share the reasons why your cat might be grooming less, what steps you can take to make them feel more comfortable, and, most importantly, when it’s time to seek immediate professional veterinary help. Why Grooming MattersFor cats, grooming serves many key functions, beginning with basic hygiene. Through their meticulous licking, cats remove loose fur, dirt, and any debris clinging to their coat, keeping themselves both clean and comfortable.Beyond just cleanliness, grooming helps to regulate their body temperature. Cats can use evaporative cooling to help dissipate heat and cool themselves down by spreading saliva across their fur. This is especially important during the warmer summer days.It’s also fundamental for skin health, as their tongues help to distribute natural oils. This keeps their skin moisturized while preventing dryness and irritation.Additionally, grooming can be a powerful social tool. When cats groom one another, it’s a way of communicating affection, trust, and social bonding. Psychologically, self-grooming has been shown to be calming, a routine behavior cats often use to reduce stress and anxiety.A healthy cat will typically groom themselves several times throughout the day, dedicating considerable time to cleaning every part of their bodies. Their barbed tongues act like tiny combs that untangle fur and remove debris. Their teeth also help with more stubborn knots. Finally, their paws are often moistened with saliva and used as a washcloth to help with harder-to-reach spots like the face and behind the ears. Causes for Decreased GroomingWhen your otherwise meticulously clean cat suddenly starts to neglect their grooming routine, it’s a red flag that you don’t want to ignore. This change can stem from many factors, ranging from environmental stressors to severe underlying medical conditions. Understanding these potential causes is the first step in getting the help and relief they need.Medical reasonsOften, a change in grooming habits is a direct symptom of feelings of pain or discomfort, making it difficult to physically move in the ways necessary to groom themselves. If a cat is hurting, the last thing they’ll want to do is bend, stretch, or twist into the various necessary positions. This pain can manifest in many ways: Arthritis or joint pain, especially common in older cats, can make movement painful.Dental problems like gum disease, tooth resorption, or abscesses can cause severe pain in the mouth or jaw, making licking unbearable.Spinal issues or injuries might restrict flexibility and cause discomfort when trying to reach certain areas.Abdominal pain or organ issues can make a cat feel unwell, leading to a disinterest in self-care and grooming.Wounds, abscesses, or skin infections are often painful to the touch, causing a cat to avoid grooming the affected area, or even grooming altogether due to generalized discomfort.Beyond localized pain, a cat’s grooming habits can suffer due to various underlying illnesses. Systemic diseases can leave your cat unwell, leading to lethargy or a lack of energy for typical daily activities (like grooming). Possible illnesses include: Kidney disease, which can cause nausea and weakness. Diabetes, leading to dehydration and lethargy. Hyperthyroidism, which can cause weight loss and muscle weakness despite an increased appetite.Various forms of cancer, which can cause widespread discomfort and poor health. Simple fevers or general feelings of unwell from a common infection can also impact your cat’s ability to groom. Obesity can also significantly impact your cat’s ability to move as needed for grooming. Overweight cats often struggle to reach certain areas of their body, particularly their back and hindquarters, making thorough grooming impossible. The extra weight can also contribute to existing joint pain, further limiting their mobility and desire to groom.If your cat is experiencing nausea or gastrointestinal problems, they will likely feel unwell enough to decrease their appetite and cause lethargy, leading to a disinterest in grooming.Finally, neurological issues can directly impact a cat’s ability to groom. Cognitive decline in older cats, similar to dementia in humans, can lead to a forgetfulness of routine behaviors, including grooming. If your cat has suffered a stroke or other neurological events, it may affect their motor skills and coordination, making the precise movements required for grooming difficult or impossible.Environmental and Behavioral FactorsWhile medical conditions are the most common cause, a cat’s emotional state and environment also play a crucial role in their grooming habits. Stress and anxiety can significantly impact normal behaviors, including grooming. Cats are creatures of habit, and disruptions to their routine can be incredibly upsetting. Common stressors include:Significant changes in routine, such as introducing a new pet, a new baby, or moving to a new home.Loud noises, home renovations, or ongoing conflict in the home can create a constant state of unease. Separation anxiety can also manifest in neglect of self-care. Prolonged stress can profoundly impact a cat’s overall well-being, leading them to neglect self-care activities like grooming.Similarly, depression or grief can cause a cat to withdraw and lose interest in their usual routines. This can occur after the loss of a companion animal or a human family member, or following other major life changes that deeply impact their emotional state.Aging naturally brings a decline in various bodily functions. Even without specific diseases, older cats often experience behavior changes. They may experience:A general decline in energy levels, making the effort of grooming less appealing.The onset of arthritis and other age-related discomforts make the physical movements required to groom difficult.Cognitive dysfunction, as mentioned earlier, can also contribute to forgetfulness or inability to perform grooming routines.Finally, while it’s less common for a prolonged failure to keep up with grooming, extreme heat or humidity can impact the thoroughness of a cat’s self-care. In very warm conditions, a cat may focus more on cooling behaviors, such as lying on cool surfaces or panting, rather than engaging in regular grooming sessions. However, this is unlikely to cause them to completely stop grooming unless accompanied by other symptoms.

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.

Should You Bathe Your Guinea Pig? A Quick Guide to Guinea Pig Hygiene

One common question new guinea pig owners often ask is: Should I bathe my guinea pig? The short answer is probably not.Unlike dogs or humans, guinea pigs don’t require regular baths and it can even be harmful, if it’s not done correctly. So here's what you need to know about guinea pig hygiene. 

Here's How to Prepare Your Pets for Hurricane Season

The Atlantic hurricane season is almost upon us, and forecasts warn we’ll likely see more storms than average. The storm season officially starts on June 1 and lasts till November 30, but storms may also occur before or after these dates.Last year’s hurricane season has devastated communities with flooding, mudslides, and wind, causing billions of dollars in damage and leaving thousands of people without a home. According to the American Veterinary Association, 45.5% of U.S. households own at least one dog, and 32.1% have at least one cat. An estimated 89.7 million dogs and 73.8 million cats are kept as pets in the United States, and all of them face the same risks during the hurricane season as their owners. The United States Department of Homeland Security has created a website to help people prepare for natural disasters and emergencies. There you can find a list of items people should have prepared in case of an emergency. A basic disaster supply kit should contain food, water, flashlights, cash, personal hygiene items, cell phone chargers, and prescription medication, among other things. But what about our dogs and cats? Is there any way to include them in your family’s emergency plan, and if you have to evacuate, can they be taken to safety as well?“Sometimes it’s much more challenging to get certain things when you’re in a hurry,” said Sarah Cortright, a Southern California-based small animal veterinarian. Packing a pet’s vaccination records, medication, food, and other necessities is much harder when trying to escape a deadly storm. It’s essential to have all these things prepared. Make sure you have at least two weeks' worth of your pet’s prescription medication in case you are forced to stay away from home for an extended period. Remember that veterinary offices may also stay closed because of severe weather, making it impossible to refill prescriptions quickly or obtain your pet’s vaccination or medical records.“Coming out of L.A. fires, we saw a lot of pets that needed medications, and they had no documentation,” making it difficult for veterinarians to refill scripts, explained Cortright. She advises keeping a copy of your pet’s medical and vaccination records digitally and on paper.“Even if it’s just a picture of the records on your phone, that’s enough,” she said, adding that animals may be separated from their families and boarded in separate facilities, for which they’ll need proof of vaccination. If you haven’t microchipped your pet yet, make sure to do so before the hurricane season. Keep your contact information up to date. In case you lose your pet during the storm, a microchip can help reunite you with your four-legged companion.Cortright suggests packing a carrier for each cat and a small dog, and a leash or a harness for medium and large-sized pooches. Pack as much food and water for your pets as you can carry, as well as food and water bowls. If possible, take their bedding and a couple of toys as well. Bring some litter for cats so they have a place to relieve themselves, and waste bags for dogs.Take recent photos of your pets to help with identification in case they get lost, and make sure they have ID tags and collars. Make a plan that includes a pet-friendly place to stay and copies of documentation to ensure all your pets stay safe. “Have extras of things set aside and ready to go,” suggested Cortright. “Just like you would for humans.” No one ever thinks they’ll end up caught in a storm. But planning before the hurricane season starts will make things a lot easier for you and your pet. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

Why Is My Dog Suddenly Losing So Much Fur?

If you’ve noticed your dog shedding more than usual, it can be concerning. While some shedding is normal, especially during seasonal changes, sudden or excessive fur loss can sometimes signal an underlying problem. Understanding the possible causes can help you take the right steps to keep your furry friend happy and healthy.

Which Cats Are Less Likely to Get Adopted?

Animal shelters are full of cats in need of loving homes, but sadly not all cats are equally likely to find a family quickly. Understanding which cats are more likely to face adoption challenges can help shelters, volunteers, and potential pet owners ensure that every cat has the opportunity for a happy, forever home.

Safeguarding Your Home for High-Energy, Too Curious Pets? We Can Help!

Why Does My Pet Stare at Me While I’m Eating?

So here I was, minding my own business, eating a perfectly ordinary sandwich on the sofa, when I felt it: the stare.You know the one.I looked up… and there was Jasper. Sitting silently. Eyes locked on my every move. Not blinking. Not breathing (probably). Just channeling all his hope, energy, and emotional manipulation into my tuna melt.And the worst part? I felt guilty.Like I was doing something deeply selfish by… eating my own lunch?If you’ve ever found yourself apologizing to your pet mid-bite or accidentally dropping a bit of food you “definitely didn’t mean to share,” you’re not alone. So let’s talk about it: why do our pets stare at us like they’re starring in a heartbreaking indie film while we eat?

Hurricane Katrina Became the Catalyst for Better Emergency Planning

The resistance of residents to leave their pets behind created a whirlwind of acts designed to help pets and their parents weather these types of natural disasters.

What’s the Best Litter for My Pet Rat?

Choosing the right litter for your pet rat is more important than it might seem. A good litter not only keeps their cage clean and odor-free, but also plays a big role in your rat’s comfort, health, and overall well-being.Rats are clean, intelligent animals, and their habitat needs to reflect that. The type of bedding or litter you choose will affect everything from air quality to how much your rat enjoys digging and nesting - so it’s worth getting right.Let’s break down the best (and worst) litter options, and how to make the best choice for your furry companion.Why Litter MattersLitter serves several key functions in your rat’s enclosure:Absorbs urine and controls odorKeeps the cage cleaner and easier to maintainEncourages natural behaviors like digging and burrowingSupports respiratory health by minimizing dust and irritantsBecause rats have sensitive lungs and are prone to respiratory issues, choosing a safe, low-dust, non-toxic litter is essential - not optional.Best Litter Options for Pet Rats1. Paper-Based Bedding

How Do Calming Pillows, Beds, and Blankets Keep Dogs Stress Free?

How Much of My Dogs Grooming Can I Do Without Formal Training?

(photo credit: Zuzanna Paluch / shutterstock.com)With two Schnoodles and a Miniature Schnauzer, grooming costs can take a big bite out of my budget. And like many pet owners with dogs in need of regular clipping, I not only considered the do-it-yourself option during COVID, but I jumped in with both feet. Yes, grooming kit and all, I clipped and shaved with guesswork guiding me, because I had no choice. The results? Rough to say the least, with my go-to response to other dog owners being “at least they’re cooler now”.Of course, once quarantines were lifted, I was happy to let the professionals take over, but my foray into grooming did make me wonder if, by doing some of the “clean-up” work myself, I could extend the duration between those pricey haircuts. The easy stuff, like ear cleaning, bath and blow dry, nail trimming.The truth is, with the right equipment, I can, and it starts with a good brushing. And we’re talking a serious clean-up with the sole goal being to remove tangles and the bits of debris your pooch has collected over the past week or so. Legs, ears, paws, torso, beak… it all gets a thorough once-over.

Is the Dog Park Right for Your Dog? Weighing the Risks vs. the Rewards

Seeing my dogs running full-out across an open field always makes me smile. It’s a level of joy we aim for. However, finding the best place to let them run and play can be challenging. While a grassy field or private property is an amazing find, they aren’t always convenient, especially if you live in the city.For many, the local dog park seems like the most accessible option. These dog-specific spaces are often marketed as the perfect solution for dogs to burn energy and practice their socialization skills. However, if you’ve been researching the topic, you’ve likely noticed that the subject is very polarizing. Many trainers and behaviorists are speaking up about the potential risks of bringing dogs to these spaces, raising major concerns for those considering them.This raises an important question: How do you decide if a dog park is actually a good fit for the unique needs and personality quirks of your dog?In this post, I will deep dive into both the pros and cons of dog parks. It will be a neutral look at the key benefits and the very real risks associated with off-leash dog exercise areas, allowing you to make an informed decision. There is no “right” answer. The best choice is always the one that’s right for your individual dog!The “Pros”: Benefits of Visiting the Dog ParkWhen the dog park environment works well, it can offer some incredible benefits for your dog’s physical and mental health. The concept truly makes sense! These advantages are often why dedicated dog parents are drawn to the idea in the first place.A Place to Release EnergyFor many dogs, particularly those living in urban or suburban locations without a large, securely fenced yard, the dog park is one of the only places they can truly run free. This isn’t just about a structured walk or fun sniffari; it’s about unrestricted opportunities to run, gallop, chase, and reach their top speeds.This type of vigorous, off-leash activity may not be essential for every dog, but for high-energy breeds and young adults, it goes a long way to help address their needs. When a dog can burn off pent-up energy, they are far less likely to start engaging in boredom-driven behaviors at home, such as chewing furniture and shoes, excessive barking, or destructive mischief.Some high-energy dogs that may require more exercise to meet their physical needs include: Australian Cattle Dogs Border Collie Australian Shepherd Jack Russell Terrier Siberian Husky Belgian MalinoisSocialization OpportunitiesOne of the most significant benefits many bring up related to the use of dog parks is the opportunity for socialization with other dogs. Socialization itself, when introduced properly, is extremely valuable. Dogs are social animals, and interacting with other dogs allows them to practice and refine their species-specific communication. It allows them to learn to “speak dog” fluently by encountering different play styles, temperaments, sizes, and breeds.This helps many dogs to become more comfortable and neutral around unfamiliar dogs. They learn key social skills like initiating play, accepting invitations to engage with others, and most importantly, recognizing and respecting social cues like when to back off, when to be submissive, and how to signal that they want to play.For a well-adjusted dog, positive dog park visits can build confidence and help them stay calm and balanced when meeting new dogs while out and about.Mental Stimulation and EnrichmentBeyond the physical workout, a trip to the dog park is also an excellent opportunity for much-needed mental enrichment. Your dog’s brain is constantly engaged during their visit by the sheer volume of new sights, sounds, and smells. Visiting new and unfamiliar environments like this is great for your dog’s mental health.The dog park is a constantly changing experience of other dogs, toys, people, and smells, requiring your dog to take everything in quickly and make regular snap decisions. This mental “work” is just as tiring and fulfilling as physical exercise, if not more so.Additionally, a dog park can also help to create a sense of community for dog parents. It’s one of the few places you can connect, share tips, trade stories, and make new dog-loving friends. This sense of connection can help many aspects of life with a dog (especially if you’re struggling with a challenge and feeling alone).The “Cons”: Risks and Challenges of the Dog Park While there is no debating the fact that dog parks offer many potential benefits, experts recommend approaching these areas with caution. For some dogs, the risks and challenges of these locations will outweigh the rewards. This is where a neutral assessment of whether a dog park is right for your dog is so important. Many of these drawbacks are serious considerations when considering a dog’s long-term health and behavioral stability. Health and Safety Concerns With many dogs coming together and sharing resources in a single environment, there are several health and safety risks that may be elevated and should be considered. The first major concern is the potential for infectious diseases to be easily transmitted. The high number of dogs means a higher probability of spreading common illnesses, especially if other dog parents (who you have no control over) are choosing the bring their dog out even when they are sick. Diseases like kennel cough, canine influenza, and intestinal parasites such as Giardia and Coccidia are easily transmitted through shared water bowls, sniffed-up ground, or direct dog-to-dog contact. Even fully vaccinated dogs can be exposed to strains not covered by standard shots. That said, they do help to lower your dog’s risk, making up-to-date vaccinations (including optional vaccinations, especially in higher risk areas of the country) and dedication to parasite control essential before visiting a dog park. Beyond illness, there is a constant risk of injury. Despite the fun, dog parks are definitely accident-prone zones. Common injuries in these areas can range from minor scuffles to severe trauma. This also isn’t exclusive to aggressive or unfriendly dogs! Dogs running at full speed can collide, leading to bone fractures or ligament tears. Even seemingly harmless rough play can escalate quickly, resulting in bites. The environment itself can also be a hazard, with uneven surfaces, discarded trash, or foreign objects that could cause cuts or be ingested, leading to potentially life-threatening obstructions.

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.

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.