What are Sebacious Cysts and Should You Be Worried?

5 Foods You Should Never Feed Your Guinea Pig

Just like cats and dogs, guinea pigs can’t eat everything we can. Some foods are actually dangerous for them. In this article, we’ll look at five foods you should always keep away from your piggy. Please note, this isn’t an exhaustive list so, if you’re ever unsure, it’s best to check with a vet before giving your pet something new.

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

Remember Hurricane Milton's Abandoned Dog, Trooper? Here's the Latest

Dog left tied to fence during Florida evacuation, living his best life.

Great Dane Draws Ire From Fellow Plane Passengers

Claimed to be an emotional support dog, Instagram followers share their thoughts.

Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies in Dogs

Just like humans, dogs can suffer from seasonal allergies triggered by environmental factors such as pollen, mold, and dust mites. These allergies, also known as atopic dermatitis, often flare up during specific times of the year, causing discomfort and irritation. Recognizing the symptoms early can help pet owners manage their dog’s condition and improve their quality of life.Common Symptoms of Seasonal AllergiesSeasonal allergies primarily affect a dog’s skin, but they can also impact the respiratory system and digestive tract. Here are some key symptoms to watch for:Excessive Itching and Scratching: One of the most noticeable signs of allergies is persistent itching. Dogs may scratch, bite, or lick themselves, especially around their paws, ears, belly, and armpits.Red, Inflamed Skin: Allergic reactions can lead to skin irritation, causing redness, rashes, or hot spots that may worsen if left untreated.Ear Infections: Dogs with seasonal allergies are prone to ear infections, which present as head shaking, ear scratching, and a foul odor coming from the ears.Watery Eyes and Nasal Discharge: Allergies can cause runny eyes and sneezing, similar to hay fever in humans.Paw Chewing and Licking: Many allergic dogs obsessively chew or lick their paws, leading to irritation and even secondary infections.Hair Loss: Constant scratching and licking can result in thinning fur or bald patches, particularly in areas where the dog frequently rubs or bites.Respiratory Issues: Although less common, some dogs may develop coughing, wheezing, or labored breathing due to airborne allergens.Digestive Upset: While food allergies are more commonly linked to gastrointestinal issues, some dogs with seasonal allergies may experience occasional vomiting or diarrhea.When to See a VeterinarianIf your dog exhibits any of these symptoms for more than a few days, it’s important to consult a veterinarian. Allergies can often be mistaken for other conditions like fungal infections, parasites, or bacterial dermatitis. A vet can help determine whether seasonal allergies are the cause and recommend appropriate treatments.Managing Seasonal Allergies in DogsWhile seasonal allergies cannot be cured, they can be managed effectively with the right approach:

The Great Sock Heist: Why Your Dog Steals the Strangest Things

You’re folding laundry, minding your own business, when you notice it—again. One sock is missing. And over in the corner, your dog is suspiciously quiet. You look over, and yep—there they are, proudly parading around with your polka-dot ankle sock like it’s the crown jewel of the kingdom. UGH!So, what’s the deal with dogs and their mysterious habit of stealing our stuff?

Puppy Socialization: Tips for Success

You already know that a new puppy needs to be properly trained so they exhibit the right behaviors at home and when out and about, but did you know they should also be socialized?

Meet PetKORE™: Durable Toys & Grooming Gear for Pets of All Sizes

Perfect for dogs, cats, and horses—built to last through any adventure!If you’re a pet owner, you know the struggle—finding toys and grooming tools that can actually hold up to your furry friend’s energy and enthusiasm. Whether it's your dog chewing through toys in minutes or your cat refusing to stay still for a grooming session, we’ve all been there.But here’s the good news: PetKORE™ by Coastal Pet is here to change the game! Designed with durability and playability in mind, PetKORE™ offers toys and grooming tools that can keep up with even the most energetic pets.

How to Prevent Your Dog from Jumping on People

Dogs jumping on people may seem like a sign of excitement and affection, but it can be problematic, especially for children, elderly individuals, or anyone uncomfortable with an energetic greeting. Fortunately, with the right training and consistency, you can teach your dog to greet people more politely.Why Do Dogs Jump?Jumping is a natural behavior for dogs. Puppies often jump on their mother to get attention, and many dogs continue this behavior with humans. If jumping is reinforced - whether by petting, talking, or even pushing the dog away - it becomes a learned habit. The key to stopping this behavior is to teach an alternative, more acceptable way to greet people.Training Techniques to Prevent JumpingOne of the most effective ways to stop your dog from jumping is to ignore the behavior. Dogs often jump for attention, so turning away, crossing your arms, and avoiding eye contact can teach them that jumping doesn't get the reaction they seek. Instead, reward them only when they have all four paws on the ground. Reinforcing calm behavior with treats and praise will help them understand what is expected.

5 Top Tips for Looking After Guinea Pigs

Guinea pigs are gentle, social pets that bring a lot of joy to their owners. But like all animals, they need proper care to stay healthy and happy. Here are five essential tips to keep your guinea pigs in top shape.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you. 

What Are Signs of Illness in Pet Turtles?

Turtles are unique and fascinating pets, valued for their calm demeanor and long lifespans. However, one challenge that turtle owners face is detecting illness early. In the wild, turtles instinctively hide signs of weakness to avoid predators. As a result, pet turtles often show only subtle symptoms when they are unwell.Becoming familiar with your turtle’s normal behavior, appetite, and appearance is essential. Early identification of illness greatly improves the chances of successful treatment, so here are the key signs to watch for.Changes in AppetiteA sudden loss of appetite is often one of the earliest and most noticeable signs of illness. Healthy turtles typically eat with enthusiasm, especially when offered favored foods.If a turtle begins refusing meals, particularly favorite treats, it should be taken seriously. While minor fluctuations in appetite can occur due to changes in temperature or environment, persistent refusal to eat may signal infections, digestive issues, or stress.

Should I Be Using a Dog Harness Instead of a Collar?

When it comes to walking your dog, choosing between a harness and a collar might seem like a small detail - but it can actually have a big impact on your dog’s comfort, safety, and even behavior. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “Should I be using a harness instead of a collar?” you’re not alone. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each option, and help you figure out what might be best for your four-legged friend.Collars: Simple, Traditional, and Convenient

What Vaccines Does My Kitten Need?

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

Squishmallow Launches New ChewMee Pet Toy Line With Familiar Faces

Popular plush toy brand intro's a pet-friendly line with a nod to Taylor and Kelce.

Keeping Pets Safe During Snake Season

As temperatures climb and wildlife wakes up, so do the snakes, and for curious dogs and cats, that can be a dangerous mix. Every year, veterinary clinics across the country see a spike in pet snake bites as the weather warms up. And while not all snakes are venomous, even a non-venomous bite can turn into a big, painful problem for your pet.For pet parents living in snake-prone areas, this time of year means staying vigilant, and a little more cautious, on walks, hikes, or even in their own backyard.According to Dr. Sharon Gwaltney-Brant, a board-certified veterinary toxicologist with the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, snakes tend to be more active during the warmer months, especially in the spring and summer. “Most bites occur when pets are off-leash, wandering into brush or tall grass where snakes like to hide,” she said.The good news? A little preparation can go a long way in keeping your pet out of harm’s way.If you live in a region where snakes are part of the landscape, like deserts, forests, or even suburban neighborhoods near undeveloped land, it’s smart to snake-proof your yard as best as you can. That means trimming overgrown bushes, sealing up holes or gaps in fences, and removing any piles of wood, leaves, or clutter where a snake might want to hang out.And when it comes to outdoor adventures, it’s best to keep your dog on a leash and stay on well-worn trails. Off-leash romps might feel freeing, but they can quickly turn into emergencies if your dog sticks their nose somewhere it shouldn’t.“Dogs are naturally curious. They don’t understand what a rattlesnake is or that it can hurt them,” said Dr. Andrew Hanzlicek, a clinical assistant professor at Oklahoma State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. “They may think it’s something to play with, and that’s where we see a lot of accidents.”If you do run into a snake, the best move is to calmly back away. Don’t let your dog investigate, and avoid trying to handle the situation yourself, especially if the snake is coiled or hissing. Venomous snakes won’t always rattle before striking.So, what happens if your pet does get bitten?First, don’t try any home remedies. No ice, no cutting the wound, and definitely no attempts to suck out venom.Instead, carry your pet (if possible) and get them to a vet immediately. Time matters. Most dogs survive venomous bites if treated quickly, but delays can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, or even death.Treatment often includes antivenom, IV fluids, and pain relief. The faster they’re seen, the better their odds. And yes, treatment can be expensive, so if you live in an area with high snake activity, pet insurance or a snakebite savings fund might not be a bad idea.There’s also the option of snakebite vaccine for dogs, available in certain regions. While it doesn’t guarantee immunity, it may help reduce the severity of a bite and buy you valuable time to get to the vet. Still, it’s not a replacement for caution.And just because you haven’t seen a snake doesn’t mean they’re not around. Some species are quiet, camouflaged, and surprisingly good at hiding in plain sight.For cat parents, the advice is similar. The only thing that’s different is that cats tend to get bitten on their bodies instead of the face or legs like dogs do. And because they’re smaller, venom can spread more quickly. If your cat spends time outside, supervise playtime, especially in shady or overgrown areas.Snake season doesn’t have to be scary, but it does require a bit of awareness. A little prevention, a lot of supervision, and knowing what to do in case of an emergency can make all the difference.Our pets rely on us to keep them safe, even from things slithering in the grass.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Why Isn't My Old Dog Eating? A Guide to Senior Canine Appetite Issues

As the parent of a senior dog, the slightest change can raise a red flag. But noticing your dog turn their nose up at their food bowl is absolutely heart-wrenching. Appetite changes are a common concern for dog parents when their pups enter their golden years, and it’s completely understandable to feel anxious.A dog’s appetite is a key indicator of their health, especially as they age, and their food provides the fuel needed to keep them going. A change in appetite isn’t a simple problem with a one-size-fits-all solution. Getting your pup back on track starts by identifying and addressing the potential underlying cause (medical or non-medical).This post will discuss the most common reasons for appetite loss in dogs, share practical tips to stimulate their appetite, and help you decide when to contact your veterinarian.Medical Reasons for Appetite Loss in Dogs As our dogs enter their senior years, they experience many changes that can significantly impact their appetite and overall well-being. A slight change in appetite is often normal. Understanding these changes is important as it will help you meet their changing needs, providing them with the best care. Many medical changes happen at this stage of life, as well as an increased risk of certain diseases and illnesses. Here are some of the potential medical reasons for your dog’s loss of appetite: Dental Problems Dental health is another common concern among senior dogs that could impact your dog’s appetite. If your dog has broken teeth, cavities, sore gums, abscesses, or other dental pain, it may lead to difficulty chewing and swallowing. Pay attention to what your dog is drawn to when they do eat. If they are hesitant to eat hard food but more open to soft or wet foods, this could be a sign that they are dealing with oral discomfort and a dental checkup is needed.  The best way to prevent dental issues in your senior dog is to stay on top of the recommended regular dental cleanings and examinations. If a problem starts to develop, the veterinarian can catch and address it early, preventing it from becoming something far worse (and far more painful). Gastrointestinal Issues In their older years, many dogs will develop a “sensitive stomach,” indicating a change to their gastrointestinal system. Conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and pancreatitis can cause nausea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort, all of which can impact their appetite. Pay careful attention to your dog’s bathroom habits. Stool consistency and frequency can tell you a lot about how their digestive system operates, with changes to their routine acting as a red flag for digestive problems. Kidney and Liver Disease As our dogs age, their organs may struggle to function at the same level they did in their younger years. Both kidney disease and liver disease are more common at this stage, often resulting in nausea, vomiting, lethargy, and appetite loss. Your dog may also experience increased thirst and urination, changes to the color of their urine, or abdominal swelling. Your veterinarian can perform the necessary testing to diagnose these conditions, including blood tests and liver function tests. Early diagnosis is essential to manage kidney or liver disease, significantly improving their quality of life. Heart Disease It may come as no shock that, like humans, a dog’s heart health may be impacted as they get older. Heart disease can reduce blood flow through the body and cause fluid buildup, decreasing their appetite. You may notice symptoms like coughing, difficulty breathing, and fatigue. If your dog shows any of these signs, a cardiac evaluation is needed to get to the bottom of the issue. Cancer It’s not a condition we like talking about, but the reality is that our aging pups face an increased risk of many types of cancer. Among other symptoms, this can cause appetite loss and weight loss. Early detection and treatment are vital to improve their prognosis and quality of life. Regular checkups and screening tests can help catch this problem early. Chronic Pain Senior dogs often experience chronic pain conditions, such as arthritis and joint pain. This can significantly impact a senior dog’s appetite by making them feel nauseous and uncomfortable, as well as making it physically difficult to eat like they normally would. Sometimes, the solution can be as simple as lifting the dog’s dish using a raised feeder to limit how much they have to stretch their neck and back down to eat. They may also need medication or physical therapy to help manage the pain and discomfort, helping to improve their comfort and, ultimately, their appetite. Infections Systemic infections can cause fevers and nausea, resulting in a loss of appetite. If your dog is lethargic, has a fever, or shows any other sign of illness, a veterinary exam can identify the source of the problem. Your vet can recommend medications to fight the infection and relieve the uncomfortable side effects. Slowing Metabolism One of the biggest changes to consider is the natural slowing of their metabolism. As our dogs age, they need fewer calories to maintain weight. They may also experience a decreased sense of smell and taste, making their food less enticing. The combination of these two often means that older dogs eat less – both because they need less to feel full and because they aren’t as tempted to eat for the joy of the meal. Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD)Finally, like humans, a dog’s cognitive health can decline as they age. Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD) may not appear to impact your dog’s gut health, but you’d be surprised how much it can affect their appetite. Similar to Alzheimer’s disease, CCD can cause your dog to experience confusion, disorientation, and anxiety, disrupting their routine and impacting their eating habits. They may forget when to eat or become anxious during mealtime, causing them to eat less than they would have normally.

What Does Your Cat's Poop Reveal About Their Health?

Every day, countless cat parents do the not-so-pleasant job of scooping the litter box. While this routine task may not be the most glamorous, your cat’s box holds a wealth of information about their inner workings and overall health.Paying just a little attention to what they leave behind may reveal subtle clues that speak volumes about their well-being.In this post, I will share the knowledge you need to decipher the unspoken language of the litter box, including helping you understand what constitutes a healthy deposit and, more importantly, when something may be “off” or warrant a call to your veterinarian.Familiarizing yourself with what to look for and when to be concerned is the key to a happier, healthier life for your best friend.What is Considered “Normal” Cat Poop?Recognizing when something isn’t right based on your cat’s litter box starts with understanding what is considered “normal.” There are several key characteristics that you can expect to see when looking at health cat poop, indicating a well-functioning digestive system.Consistency is KeyIdeally, your cat’s stool should be firm and log-shaped, holding its form well when scooped. The texture should be moist, like the texture of modeling clay or even a well-formed sausage. This consistency is important as it means the food is being properly digested and there’s a healthy balance of water absorption in the intestines, resulting in poop that is easy and comfortable to pass through the digestive tract.The Right ColorThe expected color for healthy cat poop falls into a spectrum that ranges from medium to dark brown. This comes primarily from the natural breakdown of food within the digestive system and the presence of bile, the key digestive fluid produced by the liver.It is worth noting that slight color variations can happen due to the foods included in your cat’s diet. For example, certain foods may cause the poop to be slightly lighter or darker brown, which is usually nothing to be concerned about as long as other characteristics on this list remain normal. If you do notice a slight change of color, take a moment to consider whether your cat has eaten something new recently that could be behind that shift.Size MattersThe typical size of a healthy stool for your cat will correlate with their overall size and the amount they eat, meaning that it will vary slightly from cat to cat. Even within my own home, with three cats, we have three different “normals” to consider.By consistently observing your cat’s waste when cleaning the box, you will familiarize yourself with what is normal for them, allowing you to notice if their waste is slightly smaller or larger than usual, which can be a subtle sign of an underlying issue. Very small stools may suggest that your cat is eating less than usual or they are experiencing a slower digestion rate than normal. Consistently large stools could point towards dietary imbalances or improper absorption of nutrients.Something Smells “Off”Let’s be honest, all poop has an odor, and it’s not an odor we generally get excited about. However, healthy cat poop shouldn’t have an overwhelmingly foul or offensive smell. While you won’t be mistaking your cat’s litter box for roses anytime soon, even if they are 100% healthy, a sudden and significant worsening of that smell can be a red flag. This may signal bacterial overgrowth in the digestive tract or digestive upset. Trust your nose – if the smell seems noticeably different and concerning, it’s worth taking note and investigating further.Frequency and HabitsMost cats will typically have a bowel movement once or twice a day. This is considered “normal” and indicates that their digestive system is operating as it should. Still, it can vary slightly from cat to cat based on factors such as their diet, activity levels, and overall metabolism. Monitoring your cat’s bathroom habits can help you establish what’s normal for them, arming you with the information necessary to recognize if something’s “off.”A significant and persistent change in their usual bathroom habits, whether it’s going much more or much less often, is a red flag worth paying attention to.Red Flags in Your Cat’s Litter BoxWhile understanding what healthy poop looks like will give you a baseline, you will need to fine tune your observation skills to be able to recognize when something has changed, even subtly. Certain changes in consistency, color, contents, odor, frequency, or volume may signal underlying issues that need to be addressed or even a need for a visit to the veterinarian ASAP.Here are a few of the red flags you should be on the lookout for in more detail:Changes in ConsistencyOne of the most common changes you may notice is diarrhea, which can manifest in several forms. It may appear watery, very loose, or have a soft, puddling-like consistency. Several factors can contribute to diarrhea in cats. Often, it is the result of eating something they shouldn’t. However, stress, parasites (such as roundworms, hookworms, or Giardia), bacterial or viral infections, food sensitivities or allergies, and even underlying medical conditions can impact the digestive tract.It's also important to keep in mind that diarrhea can quickly lead to dehydration, especially in vulnerable populations like kittens and senior cats, making prompt attention critical.On the opposite end of the spectrum is constipation, characterized by hard, dry pellets or infrequent and often strained attempts to go. You may notice your cat making repeated trips to the litter box without producing much or showing signs of discomfort when trying.Dehydration is also a significant contributor to constipation, as is a diet lacking the necessary fiber your cat requires. Hairballs, particularly in long-haired breeds, can also cause blockages. Other potential causes include obesity, pain (making it uncomfortable to get into position to go), neurological issues, and, in severe cases, a condition called megacolon, where the colon becomes enlarged and loses its ability to contract and move the stool along effectively. Constipation can be pretty uncomfortable for your cat and, if left untreated, can lead to serious medical problems.

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.