The Top 7 Mistakes New Pet Owners Make (And How to Avoid Them)

Does Your Cat Need a Hygiene Trim? Quite Possibly!

7 Tailless Cat Breeds: From Bobtails to No Tails

When you think of a cat, you envision a cute little animal with big round eyes, pointy ears, and a long tail, right? But it turns out that some cats have short tails or no tails at all. Of course, this gives them a unique appearance, but when it comes to their demeanor and other traits, they’re just like other cats. If you’re interested in learning about some of the many tailless cat breeds, keep reading—the following breeds are recognized by The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) and/or The International Cat Association (TICA).

Grooming Those Hard to Reach Places Just Got Easier

Why is Mental Enrichment Important for My Cat?

Have you ever walked in the door after a long day at work only to find your favorite houseplant knocked over, the curtains shredded, or your furniture scratched beyond recognition? Do you occasionally find your cat staring blankly out the window, seemingly uninterested in everything? These aren’t just quirky cat behaviors – they can be signs of boredom and a lack of mental stimulation. Just like humans, cats need mental exercise and entertainment to thrive. Imagine living in a restricted space with nothing to do for hours on end. This is where the concept of mental enrichment comes in. Mental enrichment involves providing activities and opportunities to engage your cat’s mind, satisfying their natural instincts and keeping them entertained (even when you’re not home). It’s not just about playing either; it’s about creating an environment that encourages exploration, problem-solving, and natural hunting behaviors. It’s crucial for a cat’s physical, mental, and emotional health, preventing boredom and reducing stress. It can also help build a stronger bond between cats and their humans. A mentally stimulated cat is a happier, healthier cat, and providing that stimulation is one of the most important things you can do as a dedicated pet parent. Let’s look at how to offer more mental enrichment in your home. Understanding Your Cat’s Needs Cats are naturally curious and intelligent animals, driven by natural instincts like hunting, foraging, exploring, scratching, and playing. As cat parents, it is our job to create opportunities for them to engage in these behaviors, as they are essential to their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. After all, they would spend considerable time in their natural environment doing these activities, keeping them stimulated and entertained. Domestication has introduced our cats to a new quality of life, providing safety and regular meals. But it can unintentionally restrict these critical natural outlets. Spending their lives indoors, domestic cats often lack the opportunities to hunt, explore vast territories, or engage in the same level of physical activity as they would have in the wild. This can lead to boredom, stress, anxiety, and even destructive behaviors. The connection between a cat’s mental, emotional, and physical health is undeniable. A bored cat is not just an unhappy cat; they can also experience negative physical consequences. Boredom can lead to overeating as a way to fill the void, contributing to weight gain ( obesity is a growing problem) and other related health problems. It can also manifest in behavioral issues such as excessive grooming (which can lead to hairballs), inappropriate scratching, or even aggression. In more severe cases, chronic boredom and a lack of mental stimulation can contribute to depression and other emotional disorders. Just as physical exercise is essential for a cat’s body, mental exercise is necessary for their mind. Providing mental enrichment is not a luxury; it’s a fundamental need that we need to consider and meet as loving cat parents. The Benefits of Mental EnrichmentFrom reducing boredom and stress to strengthening your shared bond, mental stimulation and enrichment play a vital role in your cat’s happiness and overall well-being. Here are a few ways providing enriching activities can positively impact your cat’s physical, mental, and emotional health:Reduce Boredom and Stress Mental enrichment activities provide essential mental stimulation for your cat, preventing boredom-related behaviors like excessive grooming, vocalization, or destructive scratching. If your cat is bored, they will look for ways to release their pent-up energy or frustration. Rather than dealing with these unwanted habits, enrichment activities provide your cat with a constructive outlet for these natural instincts. Another major concern related to boredom is stress. Chronic stress has been shown to significantly impact a cat’s health, weakening their immune system and predisposing them to various illnesses. Creating positive enrichment opportunities helps reduce stress by providing a sense of control and predictability in their environment. Encourage Natural Behaviors Enrichment toys and games are a great way to allow your cat to tap into their instincts in a safe and controlled environment. Specific examples of this include:  Puzzle Feeders: Mimic the challenge of hunting. As your cat “hunts” their food in their puzzle feeder, it engages their minds and satisfies their natural predatory drive. Scratching Posts: Provide a designated space for scratching, fulfilling their natural urge to stretch their paws, mark their territory, and sharpen their claws. Interactive Play Sessions: Using wands, feather toys, or laser pointers, replicate the stalking, chasing, and pouncing behaviors they would exhibit in the wild. Cat Shelves and Furniture: Creating vertical spaces in your home provides your cat with an opportunity to climb and explore. Improve Physical Health We often consider the mental and emotional benefits of enrichment, but these activities usually go hand-in-hand with increased physical activity. Chasing a toy, climbing a cat tree, or working for their food in a puzzle feeder all encourage your cat to be more active. This helps maintain a healthy weight, improves heart health, strengthens muscles and joints, and promotes better overall agility and physical fitness. Strengthen the Bond Between You and Your Cat When you brought your cat into your life, you likely had a vision of the special bond and friendship you would share. After all, it’s one of the greatest benefits of being a cat parent. Interactive play and training sessions create opportunities for connection and communication with one another. When you engage with your cat in these activities, you’re building trust and deepening that relationship. Positive reinforcement techniques, such as rewarding desired behaviors with treats or praise, further build this bond and make training an enjoyable experience for both of you. Prevent Behavioral Problems As previously mentioned, boredom and frustration can manifest in a variety of bad habits and behavioral issues, including scratching, aggression, and spraying. Cats experiencing extreme stress may also withdraw from their family or hide to avoid any interaction. Mental enrichment provides an outlet for their energy and emotions, helping prevent these unwanted behaviors from developing. A mentally stimulated cat is less likely to engage in destructive or problematic behaviors. Boost Confidence Successfully completing a puzzle feeder, mastering a new trick, or exploring a new environment can boost your cat’s confidence and overall well-being. By accomplishing something new or challenging, they experience a sense of satisfaction, which can contribute to a more well-adjusted and happy cat.

5 Ways To Be a More Sustainable Pet Owner

Being a pet owner is a wonderful and rewarding experience that helps you find joy in the little things and enjoy true companionship. However, it also comes with responsibilities — not just toward your furry friends but also toward the environment. Pets and their owners can have a considerable ecological footprint, from food production to waste management. Fortunately, with a few thoughtful changes in the coming year, you can reduce your impact while ensuring your pet thrives. Here’s how:#1 Choose Sustainable Pet FoodYour pet’s diet is one of the most significant contributors to their environmental footprint. To reduce this impact, opt for pet food brands that prioritize sustainability by using responsibly sourced ingredients and eco-friendly packaging.Consider foods made with alternative proteins like insects, which are highly nutritious but require far fewer resources than traditional meat production. Plant-based options are also becoming more available for certain pets, particularly dogs. When purchasing, look for certifications such as MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) for seafood or Fair Trade for ingredients. Buying in bulk can also help reduce packaging waste and transportation emissions.For a more personalized approach, consider preparing homemade meals for your pet using locally sourced ingredients. Consult your veterinarian to ensure these meals meet your pet’s nutritional needs.#2 Opt for Eco-Friendly Toys and AccessoriesPets love toys, but many commercial options are made from non-recyclable plastics and low-quality materials that quickly end up in landfills. Instead, choose toys and accessories made from sustainable materials like hemp, recycled fabrics, or bamboo. Many companies now offer recyclable or biodegradable toys that are as durable as conventional ones.

Why Does My Dog Have Bad Breath?

“Doggy breath” might seem like just another quirky part of living with a pup - but if your dog’s breath has taken a turn for the seriously stinky, it could be telling you more than you think. While the occasional whiff of dog breath is normal, persistent or especially foul odor often points to an underlying issue that deserves attention.So, let’s dig into the most common reasons your dog might have bad breath - and what you can do about it.1. It Often Starts with Dental HygieneJust like with humans, the number one culprit behind bad breath in dogs is poor oral hygiene. When plaque and tartar build up on the teeth, they create the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive. Over time, this can lead to gingivitis and periodontal disease, which not only cause bad breath but also pain, inflammation, and potential tooth loss.In more severe cases, those harmful bacteria can even enter the bloodstream and affect your dog’s heart, kidneys, or liver.What helps:Brush your dog’s teeth regularly using pet-safe toothpaste.Offer dental chews designed to reduce tartar.Schedule professional cleanings with your vet when needed.It might take some getting used to, but building an at-home dental care routine is one of the best things you can do for your dog’s overall health (and breath!).

How to Tell If Your Dog Has an Ear Infection

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

How Often Should You Clean a Rabbit’s Cage?

Caring for a pet rabbit goes far beyond feeding and cuddles. One of the most important - and sometimes overlooked - aspects of rabbit care is keeping their living space clean. A dirty cage can lead to serious health issues, bad odors, and a stressed-out bunny. So how often should you clean your rabbit’s cage to keep things fresh and safe?Let’s break it down.

Why Does My Dog Walk the Fence Line?

Protectively patrolling the perimeter or just looking for a lucky break?

Why Has My Cat Suddenly Gone Off Their Food?

Cats are known for being picky eaters, so it’s not unusual for them to turn their noses up at a meal now and then. But if your feline friend suddenly stops eating altogether, it’s natural to feel a little concerned.Often, a loss of appetite is simply your cat’s way of saying something’s off — and in many cases, the cause is something minor and easily managed. Occasionally, it might point to something that needs attention from your vet.Let’s take a closer look at some common reasons your cat may have gone off their food, and the simple steps you can take to help them get back on track.

Cat Owners Spend Over $22,000 to Find Their Missing Pet

A German couple hasn’t lost hope and is still looking for their cat, which has been missing for nearly a year. Rafael and Monika Klajnszmit were traveling from their home in Eschwege to Bavaria in July 2024 when their black cat, named Nero, went missing in Erlangen.“I wanted to spend my vacation with my wife in Chiemgau. She was in rehab there. I stopped at a hotel in Erlangen. Then Nero jumped out of his transport box and ran away,” said Rafael. In the months following their cat’s disappearance, the couple has spent over $22,000 on their efforts to find Nero and bring him home. They have spent hundreds of dollars on gas and hotels as they make a 300-mile round trip from their home in Eschwege to Erlangen each weekend. They’ve also bought special cameras, food bowls, and Nero’s favorite food - tuna. So far, Rafael and Monica have put up about 10,000 missing cat posters, knocked on doors, and enlisted the help of local volunteers, who ensure all eight food bowls are always full of tuna. Rafael provided microchip readers to volunteers so they could scan all black cats they came across in the city. “They are on standby day and night, every hour if I call them, they’ll get in the car and drive to read out the chip,” Rafael told the Times. But so far, they were out of luck. Not everyone in Erlengen was so forthcoming, and the couple’s search efforts were met with some resistance from the locals who weren’t happy with flyers being hung up. Instead, Rafael and Monica had to physically hand out posters to people on the street. According to Rafael, Nero’s shy personality could be the thing preventing the cat from being found. “He’s not the kind of cat who goes up to people to get stroked,” he explained. “I can imagine he’s so scared that he only moves around at night.” To maximize their search efforts, the couple took to social media and set up a Facebook page called Nero - ein bub velrolen in Erlangen, which translates to Nero - a boy lost in Erlangen. At this time, the page has more than 4,000 followers and 2,500 likes. There, the couple shares updates and pictures of their furry companion in hopes someone in the area will recognize their cat and help bring him home. “He means a lot to me. He’s a friend and a member of the family. And you don’t abandon your friends,” said Rafael. “ I’m not giving up. I know he’s still alive.”He explained that Nero is chipped, and if he were found dead, the owners would have been notified. “The vets and the motorway maintenance department say that when a dead animal is retrieved, the chip is read.”Talking about anyone who might come across Nero or another cat, Rafael added, “We can only ask people to secure the cat, take it to the vet, and get the chip checked. It might not be Nero, but there are many missing cats and a lot can be rescued in this way.” In a Facebook post, Rafael wrote that he’s very happy that now many English-speaking people, particularly students, in Erlangen have heard about Nero and may have unknowingly become a part of his story, maybe even someone saw him or sheltered him. I’m deeply touched to see how far his story has already reached, across national borders. People all over the world are wondering where Nero might be.”Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Should I Give My Dog Collagen?

Collagen is an essential protein that plays a vital role in maintaining healthy joints, skin, and overall well-being. While humans commonly supplement with collagen, many pet owners wonder if it can benefit their dogs as well. As dogs age, their natural collagen production declines, which can lead to joint stiffness, reduced mobility, and skin issues. The short answer is yes - collagen can be a beneficial addition to your dog’s diet. However, there are important considerations to keep in mind before introducing it.What Is Collagen and Why Is It Important?Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body, forming the structural framework of connective tissues, including skin, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage. It provides elasticity and strength, helping maintain overall physical health. In dogs, collagen contributes to joint flexibility, skin hydration, digestive health, and even the integrity of nails and teeth.As dogs age, their collagen levels decline, resulting in common aging issues such as stiff joints, dull coats, and brittle nails. Environmental factors such as diet, activity level, and exposure to toxins can further reduce collagen production, making supplementation a viable solution for many pet owners.Benefits of Collagen for DogsCollagen provides several health benefits for dogs, much like it does for humans:Joint Health and Mobility: Collagen is a key component of cartilage, the tissue that cushions joints. Older dogs or those with arthritis may benefit from collagen supplements, as they help maintain cartilage strength and reduce inflammation, improving mobility. Active dogs or working breeds may also benefit from collagen to support joint health and prevent premature wear and tear.Skin and Coat Health: Collagen plays a major role in maintaining skin elasticity and hydration. If your dog has dry, flaky skin or a dull coat, collagen may help restore moisture and shine, and it can support healing in dogs with skin conditions. Regular collagen intake can also reduce shedding and improve overall coat texture.Digestive Support: Collagen contains amino acids that strengthen the gut lining. This can be beneficial for dogs with digestive issues such as leaky gut syndrome or food sensitivities by improving nutrient absorption and reducing inflammation. A strong gut lining helps protect against harmful bacteria and supports a balanced digestive system.Nail and Dental Health: Collagen also supports stronger nails and teeth, both of which are crucial for a dog’s overall health and well-being. Brittle nails can lead to painful cracks, and collagen helps maintain their strength and resilience.Weight Management and Muscle Health: Since collagen is a protein, it supports lean muscle mass and overall metabolism. Dogs recovering from injuries or those with muscle loss due to aging may benefit from collagen supplementation as part of a balanced diet.How to Give Collagen to Your DogThere are several ways to add collagen to your dog’s diet:Collagen Supplements: Many pet stores sell collagen in powder, chew, or capsule form, specially formulated for dogs. These are convenient and easy to mix into food or offer as treats.

How to Introduce a New Pup Without Making Your Resident Dog Jealous

Bringing a new dog into your home is a big decision—one that affects not just you, but also your current four-legged family member. While dogs are naturally social animals, they’re also sensitive to changes in their environment, routine, and your attention. Without the right approach, your first dog might experience jealousy, stress, or even behavioral issues.Here’s how to keep tails wagging on both sides.

Can Heating Pads Be The Right Solution for Your Aging Pet? Yes!

Dog Walking Injuries are Soaring

Bigger dogs, less discipline, or maybe we're just too busy on our cell phones...

How To Prevent Dog Boredom?

Just like humans, dogs need mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Without enough activity, they can become bored, leading to destructive behaviors such as chewing, excessive barking, apathy, and even anxiety. Preventing boredom is essential for their well-being, and with a few simple strategies, you can keep your dog engaged and content.#1 Provide Sufficient ExerciseOne of the best ways to prevent boredom in dogs is to ensure they get enough exercise. Different breeds have varying exercise needs, but all dogs require daily walks or playtime. Taking your dog for a walk twice a day, playing fetch in the yard, or letting them run freely at a dog park can help burn off excess energy and keep them engaged. If you have a spacious yard, consider setting up an obstacle course to give your pet a fun and challenging way to stay active.#2 Engage Them with ToysToys are not just for fun — they also provide essential mental stimulation. Puzzle toys that require dogs to work for treats, such as treat-dispensing balls or interactive feeders, are excellent for keeping their minds active. Classic Kong toys filled with peanut butter or kibble can keep a dog entertained for hours, promoting problem-solving skills and preventing boredom.

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.

California Tries to Crack Down on Puppy Sales

Recently, some states, like New York, have taken action to protect pets and pet parents by banning the sale of certain animals in pet stores. And other states, like Connecticut, have proposed similar laws. But California has had a law in place since 2019 that prohibits pet stores from selling dogs that were commercially bred—a law passed in an effort to tackle puppy mills. Now lawmakers in the state are trying to go a step further by stopping the sale of puppies that come from mass breeders located outside of California.