What are the Benefits of Silver Vine for Cats?

Just What The Doctor Ordered: The Health Benefits Of Cats

Take two kitties and call me in the morning. Here are just of few of the health benefits of cats. Having a cat in your life can do much more than just provide you with a fun and cuddly companion; it can actually do wonders for your overall health. Science is proving that cats can have a profound effect upon the wellbeing of their owners. Here are just a few of the health benefits of cats that come from having a feline in your family. Less Stress, Depression, and Anxiety Coming home to an adorable and loving kitty is definitely a surefire way to help you eliminate some of the stress you deal with on a daily basis. Cats help you focus your mind on the present moment and relax, which can help ease your anxiety. And people who are going through difficult times will find that companionship from their kitties reduces their loneliness. Pets, in general, can also help you improve your mood by taking your mind off of your troubles and allowing you to focus your energy on nurturing other creatures, as well as watching their funny antics. Therefore, they can help individuals who suffer with depression as well. Related: 5 Big Differences Between Cats and Dogs Improved Cardiovascular Health The University of Minnesota conducted a study that actually proves your kitty is great for your cardiovascular health. You can reduce your risk of dying from heart disease by 30 percent, as well as bring your risk of having a heart attack down by 40 percent, if you own a cat. And having a kitty by your side every day can even help you lower your triglycerides and your cholesterol, so you may be able to ditch that cholesterol-lowering medication if you spend more snuggle time with your feline friend. Plus, simply petting your cat can help you naturally lower your blood pressure, thanks to its relaxing effects. Of course, all of these benefits are even more apparent if you follow a healthy diet and lifestyle that includes regular exercise. A Stronger Immune System Cats can also promote a stronger immune system by making us laugh, reducing our stress levels, and providing us with comfort and companionship, especially when we are feeling under the weather. A child who has a cat as part of his or her family from a young age may also enjoy the benefits of a stronger immune system, with a lowered risk of having to deal with pet allergies. And children who grow up with cats may also have a lowered risk of asthma as they get older. Related: How To Create A Cat-Friendly Home Social Interaction for Those with Autism In addition to helping the elderly, cats are also popular amongst individuals with autism who feel uncomfortable in social situations and have trouble expressing themselves. A French study found that mildly autistic adults and children benefitted from the hormone oxytocin, which lowers stress. Because oxytocin is released by touch, petting a cat can promote feelings of love and trust, as well as an increased ability to connect with others. In other words, simply having a cat that you can pet will help increase the amount of oxytocin that is released, and this can lead to feeling calmer and better able to socialize with others, whether you suffer with autism or any other form of social anxiety. With so many great reasons to own a cat (or a few cats), the next step is to head to your local animal shelter and find the companion you can call your own. Saving a kitty’s life will empower you and make you feel great. Plus, you will reap the many health benefits of cats who will provide you with unconditional love, while also ensuring you never feel alone even when no one else is around.

Should I Be Worried About My Dog Eating Dirt?

Have you ever been out enjoying a peaceful walk or watching your pup play in the backyard, only to witness them suddenly nose-dive into the soil and… start eating it? That immediate feeling of disgust (who eats dirt, eww) is usually followed by a wave of concern. Ultimately, you’re left wondering why your dog would engage in such a seemingly unappetizing habit.You’re not alone! It’s a question that has likely crossed the minds of countless dedicated dog parents. Why? Because this “dirty” habit (see what I did there) is more common than you think!In this post, I will shed light on why dogs eat dirt, the potential risks associated with this habit, help you understand when it’s an unpleasant quirk versus a cause for concern, and most importantly, offer some tips and tricks to help keep your pup safe. Because when it comes to our dogs, peace of mind is priceless!Understanding Your Dog’s Motivation for Eating DirtWhen we see our dogs consuming dirt, it’s natural to immediately wonder why. This seemingly strange behavior, eating non-food items, actually has a scientific name: pica. While occasional dirt-licking might be harmless, chronic pica, where a dog regularly or obsessively eats dirt, can be a sign of underlying physical or behavioral issues that must be addressed. It’s not just about a dirty mouth; it could be a red flag that there’s something bigger at play.Nutritional DeficienciesFor a long time, the most common explanation for dogs eating dirt was a perceived nutritional deficiency. More specifically, many people believed it was a lack of essential minerals like iron. The idea was that dogs instinctively seek out what their bodies are missing. Therefore, if they are missing iron, they will look to eat something that will supply the missing mineral.While this can be a factor, it’s generally less common for dogs fed a high-quality, complete, and balanced commercial dog food. These foods are meticulously formulated to provide all the necessary vitamins, minerals, and nutrients a dog needs. So, while it’s a possibility, it’s often not the primary culprit.Behavior Roots of Dirt EatingMore often than not, the reasons behind eating dirt are behavioral. Just like humans, dogs can exhibit a range of behaviors that may seem “off” or out of character due to their emotional and mental states.Boredom and lack of stimulation: Dogs are highly intelligent creatures who need physical and mental enrichment. If your dog isn’t getting enough walks, playtime, or interactive toys, they may eat dirt to entertain themselves. It’s a novel texture, a different smell, and an activity to occupy their time.Anxiety and stress: Just like some people chew their nails when they are feeling nervous, some dogs develop coping mechanisms for stress and anxiety. Eating dirt can be a repetitive, self-soothing behavior for dogs experiencing separation anxiety, fear of loud noises, or other environmental stressors.Curiosity and exploration: This is especially true for young puppies. The world is a brand-new place, and puppies explore everything with their mouths. Dirt offers fascinating smells, textures, and tastes that they may be investigating out of pure curiosity, similar to how human toddlers put everything in their mouths.Attention-seeking behavior: Let’s be honest; seeing your dog eat dirt usually triggers a strong reaction from you. Perhaps you gasp loudly, quickly dash to stop them, or call out a firm “no!” If a dog learns that eating dirt gets them immediate attention, even if it’s negative attention, they might repeat the behavior just to get you to engage with them.Instinctual behavior: While highly domesticated, dogs still possess some primal instincts passed down from their wild ancestors. Wild dogs might ingest small amounts of dirt or soil to aid digestion, firm up loose stools, or perhaps even obtain trace minerals. However, this instinct is far less relevant for most modern house dogs and generally a thing of the past.Tummy TroublesSometimes eating dirt is a sign of underlying gastrointestinal problems. Just like dogs sometimes eat grass when they have an upset stomach or feel nauseous, they might also ingest dirt. They could be attempting to soothe an irritated digestive tract, induce vomiting to relieve discomfort, or simply looking for something to help them feel better. If your dog suddenly starts eating dirt and seems to be experiencing stomach issues, it’s a strong sign that their digestive system might be trying to tell you something.Tasty TemptationsOf course, there is always the possibility that something enticing is tempting them to dive in for a taste. Take a moment to consider the area from which your dog is snagging the dirt. Is there a reason they may believe the dirt could be delicious? For example, if you recently fertilized the garden, the scent of manure could be drawing your pup in.The Risks: When Dirt Eating Can Be DangerousWhile a casual lick of dirt might seem harmless, this habit could easily cross the line into much more concerning territory. Consistent or extensive dirt eating carries a long list of potential dangers for your pup.Gastrointestinal Blockages and ObstructionsOne of the most immediate and serious concerns when a dog eats dirt is the risk of a blockage or obstruction in their gastrointestinal tract. It’s not just the dirt itself; it’s often what’s mixed in with the dirt that leads to trouble. Small stones, pebbles, sticks, plastic pieces, or other debris can easily be ingested along with the soil. These non-digestible items can accumulate in the stomach or intestines, leading to a partial or complete blockage.This is a veterinary emergency that often requires surgical intervention. If not addressed, it can quickly turn life-threatening. Watch out for symptoms such as:Persistent vomitingLethargy and weaknessLoss of appetiteAbdominal pain or tendernessStraining to defecate or inability to pass waste

Health Agency Warns of Werewolf Syndrome Caused by Dog Treats

China-based Barkoo dog chews seem to be root cause in aggressive behavior in multiple pets throughout Netherlands.

Let's Swap Out the Dread Dog Cone With Something Comfortable!

(photo credit: loflo69 / shutterstock.com)Whether your pet is returning from the vet’s office after a minor snip-snip or a major surgery, odds are that you’ve been told not to let them lick, scratch, or fret over the wound. Now, although dog saliva does contain histatins that act as a mild antibacterial and many think it helps expedite wound healing, studies have shown that’s not necessarily the case. In fact, dogs lick their wounds as a form of self-soothing rather than because of any deep-seated intuition that tells them it will help them heal more quickly.Now, despite dog saliva’s antibacterial properties, the amount is insufficient to keep the wound clean and more often than not, will add different bacterium that can result in infection. Further, constant licking can also prevent the injury from scabbing over and healing properly.And that’s why your veterinarian will want your dog “coned”. It prevents access to a wound or incision site and slows the healing process. But, while getting the cone on your pet is relatively easy, believe me when I say that living with a coned animal is anything but. Not only are they bulky and awkward but these plastic shields block vision, restrict the animal from laying down naturally, moving throughout their home, as well as interfering with their ability to groom themselves.But who’s to say that preventing your little guy from licking or scratching a wound or incision had to be done with a hard plastic cone that constantly bumped into furniture and blocked vision? What if it could be a lot more comfortable and less restrictive?

Dogs of Summer! Here's How to Avoid Heat Stroke This Year!

(photo credit: Lindsay Helms / shutterstock.com)For urban dogs, the lack of shade-providing trees and that hot city pavement underfoot can result in a variety of sun-induced health issues you may not have seen coming.While humans are typically diligent about taking steps to minimize the effect of dangerous UV rays and scorching heat – thinking baseball caps, visors, sunglasses, sunblock, and more – our pets are often left to the elements and struggle to cope. We think that providing cold drinking water is sufficient to hydrate and keep their body temperature down, but it’s not enough. Just like the person on the other end of their leash, dogs too, can experience sunburn and skin cancers including squamous cell carcinoma and malignant melanomas not to mention the impact of hot pavement, patio stones, asphalt, and even artificial turf that can result in blistered pads and elevated body temperature leading to heat stroke.If your pet has been out in the sun for any period of time and is panting heavily, beginning to drool and his fur feels hot to the touch, it’s time to immediately move him into the shade, provide him with cold water and take steps to lower his body temperature. This can include spraying him with cool water and placing cold towels around his core area. If he has progressed to the stage of vomiting, or collapsing, or his gums have turned pale, a veterinarian intervention is required.So, how do you prevent a good walk on a nice sunny day from turning into a medical emergency? Prepare! Happily, the pet industry has thought through a myriad of options.

UK Cat Cafes in Danger of Shutting Down

With the popular concept going gang-busters across the globe, why the push back?

Zeus the Maine Coon is the Size of a Child

Growing in popularity and in size, the long-haired Maine Coon proves to be a gentle giant with pet owners.

Why Won't My Dog Stop Scratching His Ears?

That relentless scratching. Every pet parent knows the sound – the constant thump of a dog’s leg against their ear (and the floor), often followed by a headshake. It’s a sound that instantly triggers worry, and rightfully so! A dog who is constantly scratching their ears is clearly uncomfortable, but this scratching could also be a sign of something more concerning.Ear health is an important focus for dog parents; it affects everything from their balance and hearing to their overall happiness and well-being.From pesky ear mites and irritating yeast infections to allergies and foreign objects, there are many possible reasons for itchy ears. While several different issues can cause ear scratching, they all require your attention. Understanding the underlying cause is the first step to effective treatment and long-term relief. Let's look at the potential causes…The Anatomy of a Dog’s EarBefore we discuss the many causes of ear irritation, let’s take a moment to understand why dogs are so prone to ear problems due to their basic anatomy. Like our own, a dog’s ear is divided into three sections: the outer, middle, and inner ear. The outer ear is the part of the ear that we can see. It serves as a funnel, directing sound into the ear canal. This canal, however, is where the biggest difference between a dog’s ear and a human’s ear can be found. Unlike the relatively straight ear canal in a human’s ear, a dog’s is L-shaped, taking a sharp turn. The unique shape helps to protect your dog’s ear drum. Unfortunately, it also creates the perfect trap for debris, moisture, and anything else that may find its way in. Adding to the risk, the ear canal is lined with extremely delicate skin, which can quickly become inflamed or irritated from exposure to these trapped substances. The combination of the L-shaped canal and sensitive lining makes dogs particularly susceptible to suffering from ear issues. Because of this heightened risk, regular ear cleaning is necessary to maintain their ear health and prevent problems before they start. After all, who wants to see their pup experiencing pain or discomfort? Not me! Common Reasons for the Itch The biggest challenge in identifying the cause of your dog’s ear discomfort is the long list of potential culprits. From microscopic parasites to fungal infections and allergic reactions, understanding the possible causes is the first step toward giving your pup some much-needed relief. Let’s explore some of the most frequent offenders behind itchy ears in dogs. Ear Mites These tiny parasites are a frequent source of ear irritation in dogs. They are so common because they are highly contagious, spreading easily between pets. In addition to causing intense itching, their presence is often accompanied by dark, crusty debris that can be seen in the ear canal. If your dog is dealing with ear mites, they may scratch at their ears obsessively and/or shake their heads frequently. You may also notice dark discharge or inflammation in the ear. Veterinarians diagnose ear mites by taking a sample of the dog’s ear debris and examining it under a microscope. If this is the diagnosis, they will typically recommend medication to kill the mites and a thorough cleaning of the dog’s ears. Because they are so contagious, all pets in the household will need to be treated if one is diagnosed with ear mites. Yeast InfectionsYeast is a fungus that can overgrow in your dog’s ear. It thrives in warm, moist environments. Several factors could predispose a dog to yeast infections, like allergies or weakened immune systems. Symptoms of a yeast infection often include itching, redness, discharge (which may have a distinct odor), and head shaking. Veterinarians diagnose yeast infections through a physical exam, and sometimes, they take a sample from the ear for cytology and examine the cells under a microscope. Treatment usually involves antifungal medications to take care of the current infection and steps to address any underlying conditions that may have contributed to the overgrowth to prevent it from reoccurring. Bacterial Infections Bacterial infections in the ear are often secondary to other issues, such as allergies or mite infestations. Bacteria exploit the compromised ear environment, becoming a full-blown (and very uncomfortable) infection. Symptoms of a bacterial infection resemble those of a yeast infection, sometimes with the addition of pus or a foul odor. Diagnosis typically requires a vet exam, and the vet may also perform an ear culture to identify the specific bacteria involved. Treatment usually consists of antibiotics to get rid of the bacteria and a thorough cleaning of the ear canal. AllergiesAllergies, whether food-related or environmental, can manifest in many different ways. Ear irritation and problems are common symptoms. When dogs have allergies, their immune system overacts to certain substances, leading to inflammation and itching, which can be particularly noticeable in the ears. Chronic ear infections, redness, and inflammation are all common signs of allergies affecting the ears. Diagnosing allergies can involve food-elimination diets or environmental allergy tests. Treatment focuses on managing the allergies themselves, which might include dietary changes, medication, or immunotherapy. Foreign ObjectsForeign objects like foxtails, grass seeds, and other debris can become trapped or lodged in your dog’s ear canal, causing sudden pain and discomfort. The most common signs your dog has a foreign object stuck in their ear include rapid onset of scratching, headshaking, and pain. If you suspect your dog has a foreign object in their ear, you should seek veterinary attention promptly for safe and effective removal. Attempting to remove any of these items yourself could push the object further in or damage the delicate tissues of the ear canal, leading to further health complications. It’s better to be safe than sorry! Less Common but Important Causes While the previously listed issues are the most frequent causes of excessive ear scratching in dogs, it’s important to be aware that less common but potentially even more dangerous problems can also be at play. Ear canal tumors or polyps, while not common, can cause significant pain and discomfort. They require veterinary intervention as soon as you spot them (or suspect they may be there) for diagnosis and treatment. These growths can obstruct the ear canal, leading to inflammation and secondary infections. Autoimmune diseases, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, can sometimes affect your dog’s ears. They can cause inflammation and other symptoms. Additionally, hypothyroidism may contribute to your dog’s itchy ears. This is a condition where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones, which can manifest in skin and ear problems. If your dog’s ear irritation results from either of these conditions, you must address the underlying medical concerns to reduce the risk of future ear problems. Consult your vet if your dog’s ear problems persist or don’t respond to typical treatments (more on those to come). A proper diagnosis is essential to address these underlying issues effectively.

Is Your Cat Safer With or Without a Collar?

If you’ve ever wondered whether your cat should wear a collar, you’re definitely not alone. It seems like a simple decision, but there’s actually a lot to consider. While collars can help keep your cat safe and make it easier for them to get home if they’re lost, they can also cause major problems if not used correctly. Here's a clear look at the pros and cons to help you decide what’s best for your feline friend.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you. 

Feeling Down After Getting a Puppy? Here’s What Puppy Blues Are

Bringing home a puppy is supposed to be all tail wags, snuggles, and sunshine, right? But if you're feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or even a little regretful after adding a furry new member to the family, you're not a bad pet parent; you might just be dealing with the puppy blues.Yep, it’s a thing. And it happens to more people than you’d think!The term “ puppy blues” describes the emotional rollercoaster some people experience after getting a puppy. It can hit days or even weeks after your new dog arrives, and it often includes feelings of stress, guilt, frustration, and exhaustion. Some pet parents even find themselves crying in the laundry room while their pup is busy tearing apart a slipper.Common symptoms of puppy blues include physical exhaustion from constant feeding, potty breaks, and training, emotional burnout, feeling guilty for not doing enough, worrying you're not raising your pup the right way, doubts about keeping the puppy, and wondering if they’d be better off with someone else. The good news is that these feelings are normal! And most importantly, they’re temporary.Yes, puppies are adorable, but they’re also a handful. They come with accidents on the rug, sleepless nights, teething, barking, and a need for constant supervision. That pressure, especially if you’re trying to do everything perfectly, can lead to burnout fast.Add to that the reality that many pet parents are doing this without much help, and it's no wonder some new owners feel totally overwhelmed.One of the best ways to ease the puppy blues is to stop doing it alone.Talk to friends or family members who can step in for short puppy-sitting breaks. It’s amazing what a two-hour nap or walk alone can do for your mental state. Got a neighbor who loves dogs? Don’t be afraid to ask for help.And make sure you’ve got a vet you trust, preferably one with behavior training experience. They’re your go-to for everything from weird health questions to training tips that don’t involve yelling or leash-jerking.Online puppy communities can also be a lifesaver. Sharing stories with other puppy parents going through the same struggles can make you feel a lot less alone.The thing many first-time dog owners don’t know is that when you’re raising a puppy, the right tools can make a huge difference. Some go-to items for making life easier include long-lasting chew toys, snuffle mats, food puzzles, and playpens. If possible, take a few days off work when your puppy comes home, and if not, consider getting help with walks or crate time so you’re not trying to be everywhere at once.Another thing you need to know is that no one raises a perfect puppy. Some days, your pup will rock their training. On other days, they’ll eat your shoelaces and forget what “sit” means. Puppies aren’t just little dogs, they’re babies with developing brains. They’re not ignoring you to be difficult, they’re still learning how the world works.Interestingly, while there’s less research on the subject, many cat owners say they’ve experienced something similar, sometimes called the “kitten blues.” Like puppies, kittens can be a lot of work, and the same advice applies.Raising a puppy can be chaotic, messy, and overwhelming. But it also brings joy, laughter, and the start of a bond that can last a lifetime.Hang in there. You’re doing an amazing job!Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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

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.

Overweight Dog? Choose a Tasty CHEW Treat Versus EAT Treat.

(photo credit: moonmovie / shutterstock.com)My dogs love treats. What dog doesn’t, right? But one of mine is older, has slowed down, and therefore become a little paunchy. So, how do you toss something tasty to the other dogs, but throw her a carrot stick? You don’t. You check out some of the non-edible, savory flavored chew treats available on the market, and find one that provides her with the satisfaction of chomping down on something tasty… albeit without the calories that come from consumable treats.Now, there is a definite “wow” factor when you begin this search because you will be faced with myriad options. From those suited to smaller dogs with a discriminating palate, to larger chews designed for pooches who love to gnaw. And don’t get me started on the various flavours. Peanut butter? Yes, please! Of course, who can forget bully sticks with their softer, chewable texture that makes them easy to digest (so yes, consumable) yet a much slower eat compared to the mini, high-calorie options that get gobbled down so quickly.

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.

Research Aims to Uncover the Effects of Small Pets on Human Well-Being

Many articles have been published about the benefits of pets on mental health and overall happiness, but they’re usually focused on the perks of sharing your home with a cat or dog. Well, the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) wants to change that. They announced a grant that will allow researchers at the University of Liverpool to look into the impacts of small animals as pets. Their goal is to find out if small pets have an effect on people’s well-being, too.

Turning His Back On You? Your Dog May Have a Good Reason.

It's not you. It's him. And his reasons may surprise you.

High Blood Pressure in Cats: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments

Hypertension (high blood pressure) is a condition that can affect cats just like people. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure can be measured in cats, and a veterinarian can determine if a cat’s blood pressure is too high and needs to be treated. To learn more about this condition, including its causes, symptoms, and treatments, keep reading.

How to Plant a Cat-Safe Flower Garden

Creating a vibrant flower garden doesn’t mean compromising your cat’s safety. Many popular blooms are toxic to cats, but with a little planning, you can cultivate a beautiful, colorful space that’s also non-toxic and feline-friendly. Whether your cat enjoys basking in the sun or nibbling on greenery, here’s how to design a gorgeous garden that both you and your pet can enjoy worry-free.