Why Your Cat Loves to Knead Things

Why Your Dog Loves to Carry Random Things

If you’ve ever watched a dog proudly parade through the house with a shoe, a stick, or even a TV remote in their mouth, you’re not alone. Many dogs have a natural tendency to pick up and carry random objects, leaving owners both amused and puzzled. While it might look like a quirky habit, this behavior actually has deep roots in instinct, psychology, and even love.

How to Train Yourself to Train a Dog

Training a dog starts with training yourself. Dogs are incredibly attuned to human behavior, so if you’re impatient, inconsistent, or uncertain, they’ll notice—and it can make training much harder. Here’s everything you need to know to be ready to guide your dog with confidence.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Pets Get Allergies Too - Here's How Owners Can Help

Our four-legged companions can get allergies, too. Allergies are a common problem in cats and dogs and are usually caused by pollen, food, mold, dust, and chemicals. But why do cats and dogs get allergies?Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to a foreign substance. Cats and dogs can get the same allergies as people do, and also be allergic to pests, like fleas. There is no recent data on how many pets have allergies, but research shows the problem is escalating. “I probably see allergic dogs and cats every single day, probably multiple times a day,” said Dr. Karen Woodard, medical director at Thrive Pet Healthcare-Elmhurst in Illinois. According to Woodard, 90% of pets have environmental allergies, and the rest suffer only from food allergies. Certain dog breeds, like terriers, boxers, and bulldogs, are more prone to allergies. When it comes to cats, breeds like Persians, Himalayas, and Siamese are more at risk of developing allergies.Our four-legged companions can be allergic to other animals as well. Cats can be allergic to dogs, dogs can be allergic to cats, and both can be allergic to other species. “It’s possible for them to be allergic to us, just like we are to them,” said Dr. Anthea Elliott Schick of Scottsdale, Arizona. Unlike people, allergic cats and dogs don’t sneeze or cough. More often, they lick and scratch themselves and develop pesky ear infections.  Most dogs develop classic signs of allergies, including scratching, rashes, and ear infections. When it comes to cats, too much grooming is a tell-tale sign of allergies. “Cats shouldn’t be pulling their hair out when they groom. So if you start seeing bald patches on your cat, even though the skin underneath it looks normal, that could be a sign of allergies,” added Woodard. In pets, even food allergies usually show up on the skin first. Although some cats and dogs can develop vomiting and diarrhea, too. It’s uncommon for pets to develop life-threatening reactions and go into anaphylactic shock. In most cases, allergies just make pets miserable. No one wants to see their beloved pet suffer, and luckily, there are ways you can help your furry companion deal with allergies.The first step is diagnosis. This often involves allergy testing or an elimination diet, which consists of feeding limited-ingredient foods, in case your vet suspects food allergies. There are various medications, like anti-inflammatory drugs and oral and injectable medications that block chemical signals associated with itchiness in dogs, if testing shows your pet suffers from environmental allergies. Food allergies are usually treated with special diets, like hydrolyzed food, in which proteins are chemically broken down into smaller pieces that won’t trigger a reaction. In addition to medication and a change of diet, there are things you can do at home to help ease your pet’s allergy symptoms. Washing your pet’s bedding frequently, wiping their fur with a wet washcloth, and giving them baths can help remove environmental allergens and soothe their itchy skin. “Outdoors, they are almost acting like Swiffers, getting allergens on their skin, and it goes through their skin and actually becomes a problem,” said Schick. “We say bathe your dog, at a minimum, once a week if they are allergic.”Use natural, anti-itch dog shampoos that contain soothing ingredients like aloe vera, oatmeal, and vitamin E. These ingredients will relieve itching and nourish your pup’s skin and coat.Allergies require lifelong management. Administer treatment regularly to stay on top of your pet’s allergies and to keep the issues under control in the long run.  Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Easy Tips to Help Keep Your Cat’s Teeth Healthy

Dental health is one of the most overlooked aspects of cat care, yet it’s vital to your pet’s overall well-being. Cats are masters at hiding discomfort, so dental disease can progress significantly before you even notice there’s a problem. The good news? With just a few easy habits, you can help keep your cat’s teeth clean and their mouth healthy.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you. 

5 Essential Items for Dogs Who Spend Time Home Alone

Leaving your furry friend home alone can be stressful—for both you and your dog. Fortunately, there are plenty of modern pet items out there that make things safer, more comfortable, and happier for your pup. Whether you work long hours or just need to be out of the house often, here are five must-have items for dogs who often spend time alone.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Weird Things Your Cat Might Be Doing to Get Your Attention

Cats are often described as independent, but if you live with one, you know that’s not the whole story. When they want your attention, they can be surprisingly persistent—and sometimes a little weird about it. Here are a few common (and not-so-common) things your cat might do when they’re trying to get you to focus on them.

Duckweed and Blue-Green Algae Pose Dangers To Your Lake-Loving Dog

Recent death of healthy dogs have pet parents being uber-diligent around lakes, ponds, and streams.

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

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

7 Important Things to Consider When Getting a Pet Lizard

Lizards can make fascinating pets. With their unique personalities, vibrant colors, and intriguing behaviors, they’re a step away from the typical dog or cat. But before bringing one home, it’s important to understand what you’re getting into. Let’s take a look at some key things to consider. Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Signs of Anxiety in Cats

Cats develop anxiety for various reasons. Some experience separation anxiety, while others might be fine until they go through a sudden change in routine or move to a new home. Anxiety can also occur if a cat is traumatized, sick or in pain, or stressed by other pets or loud noises. Even being poorly socialized can lead to anxiousness.

How to Introduce a Cleanse to Your Dog's Health Regimen

Which Cat Breeds Are The Most Expensive?

While many cats can be adopted from shelters for a small fee, some purebred cats command staggering prices due to their rarity, unique appearance, or specific breeding requirements. If you’re curious about the most expensive cat breeds, here’s a quick guide to some of the priciest felines in the world.

How Long Do Pet Rats Usually Live?

Pet rats are smart, affectionate, and highly social animals that make rewarding companions. But before bringing one home, it’s natural to wonder: How long do pet rats live? While they don’t have the longest lifespans, understanding what affects their longevity - and how to support their health - can help you make the most of your time together.Average Lifespan of a Pet RatMost pet rats live between 2 to 3 years. Some may reach 4 years, but this is relatively rare. Their short lifespan is part of their biology, and while it can be difficult for owners, it also means you’ll get to see them grow from curious youngsters to mature adults in just a few short years.Males and females generally have similar lifespans, though females may occasionally live slightly longer.Rats from reputable breeders often live longer and have fewer health issues than those from pet stores or backyard breeders.What Affects a Rat’s Lifespan?Several factors can influence how long a rat lives, many of which are within your control.GeneticsJust like in people, genetics plays a big role. Rats from responsible breeders are more likely to have strong immune systems and fewer inherited health problems.DietRats need a balanced diet that includes:A base of high-quality commercial rat foodFresh fruits and vegetablesOccasional lean protein or healthy treatsAvoid sugary, fatty, or highly processed foods as they can lead to obesity or other health issues.

Treating Parvovirus in Dogs with Monoclonal Antibodies

Canine parvovirus is a serious illness that can be fatal, and treating it is difficult. There’s good news, though, as researchers found a way to target the virus with monoclonal antibodies (mAb)—a step beyond merely managing symptoms.  The treatment is Canine Parvovirus Monoclonal Antibody (CPMA) from Elanco. Given as a one-time IV injection, it can be used with supportive care to help dogs get over the parvovirus and recover fully. It has been around since 2023 when it was conditionally approved. But, this past June, the USDA expanded access and made it possible to also use this medication to prevent infection in dogs who are exposed to the virus.

Lost Ferret Found 10 Miles From Home

Reading about missing pets being reunited with their families is always wonderful. Sometimes, it’s with the help of AI or drones, while other times, a microchip saves the day. Whether it’s days, weeks, months, or even years later, when a lost pet is able to go home again, it’s a time to celebrate. But you typically hear about lost dogs and cats, not ferrets.

How a Rescue Dog's Loyalty Built His Family a New Home

We often hear the phrase “man’s best friend,” and for good reason. Our dogs are our best friends, companions, therapists, protectors, and so much more. However, the depth of that bond is rarely tested and proven in as dramatic and inspiring a way as it was for young Jamie Parker and his rescue dog, Parker. The story of this North Carolina family captured the hearts of people across the nation after they lost their home to a devastating mudslide during Hurricane Helene. The mudslide shredded the family home in the Asheville area, leaving Jamie (then 11 years old) buried under 12 feet of rubble. While his sister and grandparents were located, the search for Jamie took much longer, with many wondering if it was hopeless. But there was one family member who wouldn’t give up: Tucker. Tucker was found standing over a pile of debris, barking and whining, telling rescuers exactly where to dig. His determination paid off, with Jamie found and whisked away to safety. It’s a bond that literally saved a life. The story is a powerful testament to the intelligence and instincts of our pets. Jamie himself credits Tucker’s “big ears” and “big nose,” and he’s not wrong! A dog’s sense of smell is significantly more sensitive than a human’s. Their sense of hearing is equally impressive, capable of detecting sounds at frequencies and distances far beyond those detectable by the human ear. These biological tools are what make dogs such valuable partners in search and rescue efforts. While Jamie has since physically recovered from the ordeal, the family’s challenges post-Helene are still not over. Having lost everything but the clothes on their backs, they have been living in a temporary home, the ruins of their old life remaining untouched. But this story now has a new, uplifting chapter!

Beginner-Friendly Reptiles: 5 Low-Maintenance Species You’ll Love

Thinking about diving into the world of reptiles but not sure where to start? Don’t worry, not all scaly pets require excessively complicated setups or exotic diets. In fact, some reptiles are surprisingly low-maintenance and perfect for beginners who are ready to try something a little more… cold-blooded.Here are five beginner-friendly reptiles that are generally easy to care for, fun to observe, and make awesome companions for first-timers.

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