Behind the Breed: Lagotto Romagnolo

Posted on July 27, 2023 - 1:40 pm by
An interior graphic detailing four quick facts about the Lagotto Romagnolo breed.

What happens when you can’t do your job anymore? You adapt and become an expert at your new one! That’s what happened with dogs of the Italian Lagotto Romagnolo (pronounced Lah-GOH-toe Ro-man-YO-lo) breed.

These water-loving workers were originally bred for retrieving waterfowl for hunters in the Northern Italy marshes. But when the land was developed and the marshes disappeared in the 19th century, the Lagotti Romagnoli (that’s the plural version) were trained for a new job — to be the best truffle hunters in the world. Lagotti Romagnoli are the only purebred breed recognized for their abilities to sniff out truffles, which are delicious but pricey delicacies enjoyed by people. Training Lagotti to sniff out — but not eat — truffles seems like it would be a challenge!

These curly-haired super-sniffers are muscular, medium-sized dogs that live for around 17 years and weigh up to 35 pounds. They are great for people who are looking for a low-shed breed because their waterproof double coat rarely sheds. Keep in mind, though, that their thick curly coat still needs to be groomed so it doesn’t become matted.

Boisterous and playful, Lagotti Romagnoli love their humans, following a routine and having a job to do. When they’re not sticking by their human’s side, they’re happy splashing about in water or using their exceptional nose for a good cause, like urban search and rescue or detecting a medical problem (e.g., low blood sugar in a person with diabetes).

If you’re thinking about bringing a Lagotto Romagnolo into your family, make sure you have the time and the area for them. These intelligent dogs need to be mentally stimulated and allowed to exercise daily. They are friendly with children, cats and other dogs as long as they were socialized well as puppies.

An interior graphic detailing four quick facts about the Lagotto Romagnolo breed.

RELATED POST: Behind the Breed: Golden Retrievers

How to Protect Dog Paws from Hot Pavement

Posted on July 20, 2023 - 1:55 pm by
An interior graphic detailing how hot is too hot for dog paws, showing the effect of air temperature on asphalt temperatures.

A stroll through the neighborhood on a sunny summer day is great for you and your dog. But when temperatures heat up above 75 degrees Fahrenheit, that hot pavement could burn your dog’s paws. As a pet parent, you want to make the right choices to keep your dog safe, so here’s how to tell if it’s too hot for a walkie, and how to protect those dog paws when the temps rise.

How Hot Is Too Hot for Dog Paws?

When the temperatures outside are scalding, it’s important to check how hot the pavement is before letting your dog walk on a paved surface. Place your hand on the surface your dog will be walking on. If you cannot comfortably hold your hand in the same place for ten seconds, the pavement or artificial turf is too hot for your pet to stroll on. Try one of the following best practices to keep your pet’s paws safe from that summer heat. A hot surface can cause discomfort, blisters and burns.

An interior graphic detailing how hot is too hot for dog paws, showing the effect of air temperature on asphalt temperatures.

Adjust Your Schedule for Dog Walks

Obviously, as the day gets hotter, so do potential walking surfaces. The hottest time of day during the summer is between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m., while the coolest daylight hours are right around sunrise and after 6 p.m. as the sun is starting to go down. Early morning and evening strolls can help you and your doggo beat that summer heat!

Go with Grass

Asphalt, sidewalks and artificial turf have higher solar reflectance than natural grass. Therefore, more heat is reflected on these surfaces and remains hotter than grass. Instead of trotting out on a sidewalk for your lunchtime stroll, check the temperature of the grass in your backyard or a local park. As a best practice, go ahead and place your hand on the grass for ten seconds to check the temperature compared to the sidewalk. You’ll notice grass remains a cooler alternative for your pet. But always check, just to be sure!

Protective Possibilities for Pooch Paws

The most stylish way to help your pet walk on warmer surfaces is to invest in some dog booties. You can pick up booties at your local pet store or online. Just like with leash training, you’ll need to factor in time for your dog to get acclimated to the booties before taking them out and about. Remember to help your pet get used to new petware at a pace they are comfortable with and use pawsitive reinforcement to let them know what a great job they are doing!

Getting acclimated to dog booties is a quicker process for some pets compared to others. If your dog doesn’t want any part of wearing booties, though, that’s OK, too. Some dogs prefer to be bootie free.

Damaged Paws

How do you know if your pet’s paws received damage from a prior walk? Your dog will exhibit the following symptoms:

  • Limping
  • Excessive licking or chewing their paws
  • Paw pads appear darker than normal
  • Blisters or redness
  • Paw pads look visibly damaged

We recommend visiting your local vet as soon as possible if you notice paw-pad damage. Burns and blisters can easily become infected if not treated properly.

In addition to keeping your pet’s paws safe during the summer, pack ice packs and cold water to help cool your doggo down on your walk if needed. And lastly, watch for signs that your pet is getting too hot — so you know when it’s time to go back indoors. Warning signs include excessive panting, extreme salivation, anxiety and labored breathing.

RELATED POST:  Don’t Let the Sun Ruin Summer Fun

Why (or Do) All Cats Hate Water?

Posted on July 13, 2023 - 1:54 pm by
A brown cat sitting in an empty tub with text that reads ‘Is Hatred of Water in My Genes?’.

Splish, splash, it’s time for your cat to take a bath! But … isn’t it common knowledge that cats hate water?  You may be looking at that bathtub thinking, “This won’t end well,” and you wouldn’t be alone.

But do all cats really hate water? Let’s dive into whether this might be a myth and how to help your aqua-curious kitty indulge in a relaxing soak.

Every Cat Has a Water Origin Story

There could be more than one reason why your furry friend does or does not like water. Contrary to popular belief, experts have concluded that some personalities and breeds DO gravitate toward water. Cat breeds who typically enjoy water include Maine coon, Turkish van, Turkish angora, Highlander, Egyptian mau, Bengal, Japanese bobtail, American shorthair and Norwegian forest cat. What’s different about these breeds specifically? They all have water-resistant fur, which means getting wet isn’t as big of a deal as it is for moisture-absorbent kitties.

Wet, water-absorbent fur means your feline is less nimble, and it takes quite a while for their coat to dry. As you can imagine, sopping wet and weighed down aren’t exactly a great time for a cat. Or anyone, for that matter.

If you’ve ever watched a cat groom themselves, you’ll notice how meticulous they are at keeping their fur clean — they spend a great deal of their day ensuring their coat is picture-purrfect. Water sources often contain chemicals and dissolved minerals that a cat’s sensitive nose can detect. Your kitty may avoid water to prevent their fur from becoming dirtied with unnecessary smells or contaminates.

Another reason your cat might hate water can be traced back 10–12 million years. Many cat breeds originated in arid, desert climates and had little exposure to rivers, lakes or streams. Even today a cat’s urine is more concentrated than that of a human or dog because of their dry-land origins — it’s not far-fetched to think their ancestors’ preferences for staying dry still run deep in this mammal.

Lastly, your pet could be afraid of water due to a bad encounter with water. A negative experience like falling into a pool or being forced into a tub of water could have long-lasting effects. It may be extremely difficult (if not impossible) to help tame their fear of water moving forward. For new pet parents, if you have not introduced your little fluff to water yet, keep this in mind and introduce your kitten to water with care and caution.

From Cat to Aqua-Cat

How do you help your water-curious feline enjoy water at a level they are comfortable with? For starters, cats learn from their pet parents. Show your feline water is harmless by letting them into the bathroom while you take a relaxing bath or shower. At first, they may have no interest in what you’re doing, but over time they may see water isn’t harming you and jump into an empty tub. Remember to let them explore at their own pace.

Next, try turning on a faucet in the kitchen or bathroom to let them explore running their paws through the water. They may bat at the water or drink it, so make sure the water is not too hot or not too cold. Getting their paws wet will slowly desensitize them to water. If your furry companion shows no interest in the running faucet or remains timid around H2O, remember that it’s okay. As mentioned previously, not all cats are keen on getting wet.

Once your furry friend seems comfortable with getting their paws wet in the sink, consider purchasing cat toys designed for water. Local pet stores or online venues offer a variety of interactive water toys for cats — some look like fish and move around in H2O. When you add a moving toy fish to a shallow bathtub, you’ll see your cat’s natural instincts come alive. Chances are your pet will see the toy and go into hunting mode, maybe even immersing themselves into the shallow tub.

After your cat is comfortable with a shallow amount of water, begin adding a bit more water to the tub each time you bring out the interactive toys. Also add a step stool or platform for your cat to easily enter and exit the water if they get uncomfortable. This reinforces that water can be safe and that they can trust their new, wet environment.

It may take time before you see a swimming kitty in your bathroom, but with patience, care and affection there’s a possibility your feline will go from hating water to aqua-cat extraordinaire. No more looking at the bathtub thinking, “This won’t end well!”

RELATED POST: How Often Should You Bathe Your Dog or Cat?

Can My Dog Eat That? Pineapple

Posted on July 6, 2023 - 1:55 pm by
Interior graphic with text that reads ‘Can my dog eat pineapple? Yes (the fleshy part)’.

Welcome to “Can My Dog Eat That?,” our series that answers some obvious (and not-so-obvious) questions about what your dog can and can’t safely eat. Today we answer the question “Can dogs eat pineapple?” Read on!

One of the best parts of summer is biting into juicy, fresh fruit — watermelon, papaya, blueberries, peaches and, of course, the spiky one, pineapple. If your dog is pining for a piece of pineapple and you’re wondering if that’s OK, go ahead and toss them a small wedge of that sweet deliciousness. Just make sure it’s only the fleshy part and you cut it up into bite-sized pieces first.

A Tasty Pineappley Treat

Pineapple is a yummy and healthy treat for dogs. It’s packed full of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, and because it has a high water content, it can help keep your dog hydrated on a sweltering summer day. Pineapple is also high in fiber, which helps keep your dog’s digestive tract moving. Too much fiber can lead to an upset digestive tract, though, so if you don’t want a mess to clean up, it’s best to feed pineapple in small amounts.

Pineapple also has a high natural sugar content which is another reason it should be a treat not a meal. Too much sugar (for example, from eating a large amount of pineapple) is likely to cause an upset gastrointestinal tract.

Can the Canned Pineapple

Canned pineapple not only has natural sugar from the pineapple, it typically has added sugar as well. The sugar content of the syrup in canned pineapple may be high enough to upset your dog’s stomach. The same goes for dehydrated pineapple. The dehydration process condenses the natural sugar in pineapple, and, unless you’re making your own, there is usually a bunch of extra sugar added. Both of these products may also contain the artificial sweetener xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.

Just Give ’Em the Good Part

The fleshy part (around the core) is the part of the pineapple people typically like to eat, and it’s the only part your dog should eat. The core, stem and skin are too tough to chew and can be choking hazards. They are also hard to digest so could cause an intestinal blockage. And no one wants to eat those spiky leaves!

The “Pineapple Stops Dogs Eating Poop” Myth

There is a popular pineapple parable circulating the internet that feeding pineapple can help stop your dog from eating their poop. Pineapple contains bromelain, a mixture of enzymes that digest protein. The “theory” is that the bromelain makes the poop taste yucky so dogs won’t eat it. There is no scientific evidence that this actually works, though. If your dog is eating their own or another animal’s poop (it’s called coprophagia), speak with your veterinarian, as coprophagia can be caused by a medical condition.

As a treat, pineapple is a great choice but, like all good things, only in moderation. Try frozen pineapple pieces on a hot summer day as a cool treat for your dog!

Interior graphic with text that reads ‘Can my dog eat pineapple? Yes (the fleshy part)’.

RELATED POST: Can My Dog Eat That? Watermelon

Behind the Breed: Irish Setter

Posted on June 29, 2023 - 1:50 pm by
Interior image listing quick facts about Irish setters.

It’s no surprise that Irish setters originated from Ireland. They were bred to sniff out gamebirds for hunters and quietly announce their success by “setting” (lying down on their tummy). Their vibrant red coats made it easy for hunters to spot them across fields, although they weren’t always a solid red color —the original Irish setters were actually red and white.

Irish setters are friendly, affectionate, lively dogs that, like Chesapeake Bay retrievers, make wonderful family pets as well as reliable hunting partners. They’re great with children and love to be involved in an energetic family’s outdoor activities. However, their playful, boisterous nature, paired with their large size, means you’ll probably need to shield little kids from an accidental “Big Red” bump.

Irish setters are large dogs (weighing 60–70 pounds as adults) and typically live into their early to mid-teens. They are usually healthy but, like other deep-chested breeds, they can be susceptible to bloat or stomach twisting (called gastric dilation-volvulus).

If your idea of exercising a dog is a game of fetch in the backyard, that’s not going to cut it with an Irish setter — and a bored Irish setter can lead to a naughty Irish setter. Ideally they should be allowed to run their energy out over a long distance. Sports like agility, flying disc or tracking are great for temporarily tiring out Irish setters, and as they were bred to be hunting partners, they like games that use their brain, too.

Interior image listing quick facts about Irish setters.

RELATED POST: Behind the Breed: Greyhounds

How to Host a Bark-tastic Pool Party

Posted on June 22, 2023 - 2:28 pm by
A tan pug standing on a pink flotation raft in a pool.

Calling all water-loving doggos and their aquatic owners! It’s time for a summer pool party.

Swimming can be an enjoyable activity for your pet, and it can also be quite beneficial to their health. Both reasons to party! Why not combine the two? By planning a doggy pool party, you’re providing pups with exercise to strengthen their muscles and improve their cardiovascular health as well as offering an opportunity for pets and their parents to mingle and be social. Talk about a well-rounded afternoon!

Let’s dive into how you can plan a bark-tastic doggy pool party that will leave your guests ready and hungry for more.

RSVP for the Party of the Summer

First, decide on a safe location for your party. You’ll want to choose a fenced-in location outside with shade and a designated doggy bathroom area. Then begin thinking about days and times that work best for you and your guests.

Once you have your time, date and location secured, you can select your party theme! From “tropical luau” to “pirates of the backyard,” there’s an endless list of themes to choose from. Pinterest is a good place to start for ideas.

After choosing a theme, make a guest list to see how many invites you need to send. We recommend limiting your guest list to 10 dogs or fewer unless you have extra supervisors on duty. Avoid inviting dogs who tend to be aggressive or whom your pet has not met yet. This will help avoid any potential conflicts the day of the party.

Lastly, ask guests to bring a pet life jacket for older fur babies or those who have little to no swimming experience. A life jacket is an extra safety measure for canines during their time splishing and splashing.

Extra Doggy Approved Activities

Dogs will typically swim for 10 to 30 minutes at a time, so it’s best to make sure your furry guests have other activities to enjoy throughout the party. Extra activities also give the dogs another outlet to socialize with other humans and dogs alike.

Consider these activities and gear for your pool party. We’re sure they’ll be met with happy woofs and wagging tails.

  • Obstacle courses
  • Sprinklers or splashpads
  • Aquatic dog toys for the pool
  • Tug of war with a sturdy toy
  • Hide and seek with dog treats
  • Tennis balls for everyone!
  • Frisbee run

Yummies for the Dog Tummies

A great party isn’t complete without some good grub! Prior to making the shopping list, check in with your guests to make note of any allergies or sensitivities furry and non-furry guests may have. Also, research foods that are toxic to dogs prior to making any treats from scratch.

For healthy treat options, consider adding frozen banana slices, baby carrots or green beans to the lineup. For indulgent options — your doggo is burning off four times more calories swimming than walking, so it’ll even out — add pupsicles, canine cookies, doggie ice cream or a pawesome dog-friendly cake to the shopping list.

When choosing food for your human guests, keep in mind there will be a lot of hungry dogs circling their owners. We recommend feeding your guests foods that are also safe for dogs in case anything accidentally falls into the mouth of a furry companion. Have a question about what is safe or unsafe for dogs to eat at their dog pool party? We have you covered!

Food isn’t the only thing your guests will need. Make sure there are enough water bowls around the backyard to keep your furry guests hydrated. You’ll also want to make sure you refill these bowls throughout the party.

Get Your Party Area Doggo Ready

Make sure your pool is clean before everyone’s arrival. We also recommend adding a ramp for the dogs to get in and out of the pool safely. Dogs should never be forced to jump in or out of the pool. Ramps or zero-depth entry pools can reduce the strain on a dog’s joints, and they can also assist older or smaller dogs with getting out of the pool safely.

Next, locate a safe, quiet time-out area for the dogs in case they get stressed or start to play too rough. Inform your guests of this area upon their arrival.

On the day of the party, you’ll want to make sure the pool temperature is between 70 and 88 degrees Fahrenheit. A pool that is too cold or too hot can pose health risks to the dogs.

It’s Pawty Time

You’ve got the decorations set up. The food all laid out. And an eager host dog wagging their tail in anticipation of a pawty about to begin! Before the party gets started, establish basic ground rules to ensure everyone stays safe.

  1. If a dog is attending, the owner must be in attendance, too.
  2. Ask guests to bring their dog’s leash just in case an unexpected conflict arises.
  3. Require all dogs be up to date on their vaccinations. This prevents the spread of any infections or diseases.
  4. Provide plenty of poop bags and ask guests to clean up after their dog.
  5. Swimmers must always be supervised.
  6. Point out all the shaded locations in case Fido needs a break from the summer heat.

After the dogs exit the water for the final time, make sure their owners have access to a hose to give them a good, cool rinse before the drive home. We recommend dog owners rinse their dog for at least 20 seconds to make sure they remove all the chlorine and pool chemicals from Fido’s coat. This helps your doggy guests from having dry, itchy skin after enjoying a fun afternoon in the pool.

Now you’ve got the 411 on how to host a bark-tastic doggy pool party. It’s time to start planning what your party is going to look like!

RELATED POST: Summer Care for Dogs with Heavy Coats

Pet Boating Safety 101

Posted on June 15, 2023 - 1:50 pm by
A light brown and white dog sitting on a boat on the water.

Nothing says summer quite like a boating adventure! And for many pet owners, taking your best pal on that boating adventure is what summers are for. But before you visualize Fido on a boat, there are certain pet boating safety precautions you should take and some equipment you need. Pets on boats can present various hazards if they (and you) are unprepared, so it’s imperative that you take the right precautions.

Behavior and Attitude Matter More for Pets on Boats

Prior to introducing your pet to a boat, make sure they are well-behaved, accustomed to a harness or collar, and trained to listen to your commands. Take a look at our past blogs on training if Mittens or Fido could use some extra preparation.

Untrained pets or pets prone to bouts of anxiety are more likely to be unpredictable, and unpredictable pets are not a good mix with boats or deep waters. Go with your pet-parent gut to tell you if your furry companion has the right behavior and attitude before proceeding.

If you’re in doubt, evaluate how comfortable your pet is with water during bath time, or in a kiddie or pet pool. Make sure your furry friend is okay getting their paws wet before taking them out on the boat. If they seem unsure of water, do not force them; this will only scare them more. Instead, try letting your pet approach a bath or kiddie pool on their own terms — encourage them with food or treats, and use your calm, positive voice to let them know everything is alright.

Pets who are leery of water can develop a positive relationship with it over time. However, it’s also understandable if an animal never likes getting wet or emerged. They each have their own personalities, preferences and needs just like humans do. Something to keep in mind before that visualization of Fido on a boat begins again.

Meet the Boat

Once your pet is comfortable with water and you trust them enough to listen, introduce them to the boat while safely on land. Let them sniff and explore the boat, but train them to steer clear of the motor. Speaking of the motor, the engine can be quite noisy so you’ll want to ensure your furry friend can handle loud noises.

After your dog or cat are comfortable with the boat, make sure they are fitted with a pet life jacket and are comfortable wearing one around the house — just like training them to wear a harness. You can pick up a pet life jacket at your local pet store or online.

Pack the Essentials for Pet Boating Safety

  • Pet life jacket — Your pet should always wear one near or in the water.
  • Favorite treats — To praise them for being the well-behaved pet they are.
  • Food bowl and food — If you’re going to be out on the water for a while, bring along Fido’s food so they can stick with their normal chow schedule.
  • Water bowl and clean water — To keep them hydrated and to help discourage them from drinking lake, river or ocean water which can contain bacteria or other harmful substances.
  • Pet first aid kit — Typically includes a tick remover, gauze, antiseptic wipes, ice packs and more! Bonus: some communities offer pet CPR and safety classes to up your game.
  • Poop bags, a litter box and/or artificial turf — You know, for when nature calls.
  • Leash — Even if you are near shore, you’ll want to make sure your pet doesn’t wander off.
  • Collar with updated tags — Just in case Mittens or Fido does get loose, you want to make sure someone can help them find their way back to you.
  • Pet sunscreen — Yes, animals can get sunburned, too! Pick up pet-approved sunscreen at your local pet store or online. Do NOT use human sunscreen on your pet.
  • Toys that float — If your pet loves to play in the water, be sure to bring along some floating toys for added fun in the sun!
  • Non-slip mats — To prevent you and your pet from slipping and sliding across the deck.
  • Shade options — For Fido or Mittens to keep cool and out of the summer sun when needed.

Anchors Away

Now that your pet is packed and ready to ride on a boat, here are some final safety measures to keep in mind during the big day.

Ease your pet into boating life. Limit your time on the water during your first few boating adventures to help get them comfortable with riding the waves.

When the boat is in motion or when the waters get rough, keep your pet in the main cabin or on the deck of the boat.

Keep fishing gear and other hazardous objects at home. You don’t want your pet to accidentally get ahold of a fishing hook.

We know we said this before, but make sure your pet has a shaded area to retreat to. In addition to sunburns, boat decks can get toasty and burn your furry companion’s paw pads if you’re not careful.

Know where your pet is at all times and be mindful of your boating speed.

Most importantly, have fun in the sun (and shade)! Fido and Mittens are going to love the breeze in their fur, water below their paws and the extra adventure with their favorite humans.

RELATED POST: Taking the Plunge: Water Safety Tips for Dogs

How to Interpret Your Cat’s Behavior: A Taste of the Wild Guide

Posted on June 13, 2023 - 2:03 pm by
A black and orange striped cat lying on a bed with its tail up.

Cat behavior is a subject that most cat parents wish they understood a little better. Or a lot better! Why does your cat insist on knocking everything off the counters? Why does every other cuddle session turn into a bitey session? Why do they feel the need to knead? Heck, are we even sure we know why they purr? There’s an endless amount of mystery surrounding cat behavior, and not all those mysteries have been solved.

But together, we’ll try to get a better handle on understanding why your cat does what they do. Read on as we explore cat behavior, a subject as deep and complex as the cosmos. If the cosmos randomly smacked the dog for no reason!

Reading the Tail of Your Cat’s Body Language

A black and orange striped cat lying on a bed with its tail up.

Cats aren’t the most expressive when it comes to facial communication. There are certainly times when you can look at your cat’s face and see that they’re angry or content or needy, but the vast majority of the time, your cat’s expression can be considered “stoic” at best or “disinterested” at worst. The good news is that there are other ways to tell what your cat is thinking or feeling. You just have to look below the neck.

There’s a reason that “cat body language advice” is a hugely popular search term on the ol’ internet. When the face tells no tales, you have to look elsewhere to interpret those feline feelings. Cat body language tips can help you tell how to deal with your cat in the moment, and the best place on the body to get a read on that language? Yep. The cat tail has tales to tell.

Cat tail language is like an old-school skeleton key that unlocks an entire body of secrets. How they hold their tail, how it’s moving, even how puffy it is; every detail tells a, well, you know.

Obviously, the tail is only part of the story. Ear position, eye dilation, general posture and other signals all work together to tell a story about what your cat is thinking or feeling. But when you have to know right now? Look to the tail.

READ MORE ABOUT TRANSLATING YOUR CAT’S TAIL

Social Smarts and Cat Behavior

A tan and black striped cat sitting on the floor in front of an empty food bowl.

No matter how lovey or clingy your cat may be, there inevitably are times when they don’t seem to care what you want. Does that mean that your cat is aloof? Does it mean that your desires mean nothing to them? Or does it simply mean that cats handle situations in ways that we don’t fully understand?

Well, yeah.

The fact of the matter is that cats aren’t human, so it’s not really fair to expect them to react to any situation the way a human might. If a person points at something and there are other people around to see it, those others will almost always look where the person is pointing. Cats, not so much. A cat might not even acknowledge that you’re in the room.

But that doesn’t mean that cats are aloof. It does mean that they value things in different ways than humans do, and applying human behavior rules to cat behavior doesn’t work. Just because you point at the food bowl doesn’t mean your cat has any interest in looking at the food bowl.

Understanding a cat’s social smarts can really help crack the code on why your cat behaves the way they do. It’s far from an exact science at this point, but there have been strides made in understanding cats’ social behavior. In 2017, researchers determined that cats often care more about people than they do about food or toys. So the fact that they aren’t reacting to the gifts you’re giving them isn’t necessarily a bad thing. In fact, it’s a you problem! A couple of years later, the same research team found that cats are hugely reliant on the people they trust. In many ways, the more they love you, the less they’re willing to do for you. Cat behavior, like the cats themselves, is a complicated issue.

The bottom line is that when a cat doesn’t obey your commands, it’s not because they don’t understand them or refuse to obey. It’s because when they are comfortable, they tend to do their own thing. Is disobedience a sign of love? Maybe!

READ MORE ABOUT YOUR CAT’S SOCIAL BEHAVIOR

Why Do Cats Need to Knead?

A closeup of two orange and white cat paws.

Your cat is on your lap, purring away. Inevitably, they start “making biscuits” on your thighs, clawing and pulling and grasping. You’re so used to this process that you never really stop to think about this behavior. It doesn’t hurt and, in fact, is oddly comforting when your cat kneads away. But the question lingers.

Is cat kneading an extremely weird thing to do?

Why do cats knead? If your dog started doing it, you might be weirded out, but we’re just so used to our cats doing it that “Why do cats make biscuits?” rarely crosses our minds. So. Why do they do it?

The most obvious answer is that kneading is engrained in cats since birth: as newborn kittens they had to make the same motions to stimulate their mother’s milk flow. Their very first actions brought food into their needy little mouths, so it might just be hardwired into cats that this activity brings comfort. You know how sometimes you feel the need to bury yourself in warm blankets? Some research suggests because we were swaddled as babies, blanket cocoons can relive anxiety. The same idea might apply to cats!

READ MORE ABOUT CATS’ NEED TO KNEAD

What Do Cats DO All Day?

A gray cat lying down chewing on a cat toy shaped like a fish.

We’ve all heard the frenetic footsteps of 2 a.m. zoomies, which is why we know that when cats are unsupervised, they get into all sorts of shenanigans. Jumping on the counters, chasing bugs, skittering around the entire house — and who knows what cat habits are engaged when you’re not home?

Luckily, there’s a way to track the good cat habits and bad cat habits that your cat indulges in when they’re not being supervised. Kitty cams can tell cat parents exactly what they need to know about the secret lives of their feline friends. And judging by some research, we can learn a lot from that data. Though studies to date have mostly tracked cat behavior when they are outdoors, the fact that cats behave differently when on their own versus when with their people opens a lot of avenues for exploration. When cats are indoors? They tend to prefer being in the same room as their people.

Who’da thunk it?

READ MORE ABOUT THE SECRET LIVES OF CATS

Why Do Cats Purr?

A white cat with brown stripes sitting in its owner’s lap.

The best way to tell that your cat is happy and content is by the steady rumble of their purr, right? But do you know what cat purring actually means, especially outside the context of your warm lap?

When your cat quickly movies their larynx muscles in time with their diaphragm to create that low, exhaust-pipe sound that every cat parent loves so much, it might not always mean what you think it means. If you’ve ever wondered “Why is my cat purring?” you’re in luck. We’ve wondered the exact same thing and collected everything we know.

READ MORE ABOUT WHY CATS PURR

Why Does My Cat Do That, and What Can I Do to Solve It?

A brown and white cat lying on its side on a couch with its front paws on the back of the couch.

Why do cats do the things they do? Scratching up the furniture, randomly “going” outside of their litter box, biting for no reason — are these simply bad behaviors that can be unlearned, or is there something more at work?

The simple answer is that cats aren’t people and therefore don’t conform to what people consider “good” behavior unless they’re trained. The good news is that with lots of patience and training, you can turn your “bad” cat into a model of cat behavior.

READ MORE ABOUT WHY YOUR CAT DOES THAT

An orange and white cat lying on a kitchen countertop in the sun.

Know Cat Behavior, Know Your Cat

Even with everything we conclusively know about behavior, cats still remain as mysterious as the Sphinx (which is famously mysterious for being…a cat. COINCIDENCE?!?!). But by paying a little attention and watching cat body language, tail position and their tastes and preferences, you’ll know how to interpret cat behavior as well as anyone. And knowing what they do and why they do it can really enhance your relationship with your cat.

If your cat doesn’t mind, that is.

Common Cat Behaviors and How to Correct Them

Posted on June 8, 2023 - 1:50 pm by
Interior graphic detailing reasons for litter box issues and potential solutions.

At some point, most cat owners deal with at least one of the following behaviors. Deal with any of them long enough, and you’ll be yearning to correct that cat behavior.

Why do cats do the things they do? Well, cats aren’t people, and are often oblivious to what is or is not acceptable behavior by human standards. Kittens are still learning the ropes of how to cat, and older felines are holding onto learned behaviors. There’s a lot to declaw here, for them and you.

The good news is that no matter your cat’s age, with a little TLC, lots of patience and some clicker training you can help curb unwanted actions and redirect their attention. Here’s how to curb a few common cat behaviors.

Scratch That!

Cats have an instinctive urge to scratch. They’re not doing this to destroy your furniture. Your feline is scratching to express their emotions, mark an object, file their nails or get in a good stretch.

Help your cat “file” their nails by trimming their claws every ten days to two weeks. You can schedule a vet appointment or you can carefully trim them at home.

Provide your furry friend with sturdy scratching posts to help them express emotions or get in that good stretch without causing damage to furniture. Some cats prefer horizontal scratching posts while others prefer something more vertical. Keep their preferences in mind while finding the right scratching post for Mittens. When in doubt, provide one of each.

Place the scratching post near the object you’d like them to avoid. Then cover the spot they keep clawing on the furniture with double-sided sticky tape, furniture protectors or sandpaper as a deterrent. Each time they go to scratch the furniture, divert their attention to their new scratching post. Follow that up with paws-itive reinforcement to show them the desired behavior is appreciated.

Litter Box Woes

When cats choose to relieve themselves outside of the box, there could be a simple fix or it could indicate there’s a larger issue at hand. First, let’s examine potential internal or external factors. Do any of the following situations sound familiar?

Interior graphic detailing reasons for litter box issues and potential solutions.

Grumpy Cat Stand-In

Is your feline exuding grumpy cat vibes? Cats are not aggressive animals by nature, so let’s step back and look at the situation. If your cat’s body language seems relaxed and their ears are pointed forward as they get a bit aggressive, it’s likely that they’re just playing.

However, if they flatten their ears, show their teeth or puff up their fur, this is a sign they’re ready to fight. Do not try to physically engage an angry cat. They’re asking for their space. An angry cat could be the result of one of the following.

Interior graphic detailing reasons for grumpy or aggressive cat behaviors and potential solutions.

If you notice other unwanted behaviors, check to make sure Mittens has an appropriate number of outlets for playing, exercising, scratching and climbing. Sometimes, a tired kitty is a well-behaved kitty, and exercise can solve those problems all by itself. If all the options mentioned so far do not work, make a hissing noise or holler, “Ah, ah, ahhh” to get your cat’s attention. It’s not a long-term fix, but it can stop the behavior in the moment and allow you to divert their interest to a more desirable behavior and use positive reinforcements to let them know they’ve made the right choice.

Training your furry feline is not an overnight process, so don’t lose hope or commitment — especially if you have an older cat. They’re having to unlearn years of lived behavior.

Can My Dog Eat That? Hot Dogs

Posted on June 1, 2023 - 1:50 pm by
Interior graphic with text that reads ‘Can my dog eat hot dogs? They probably shouldn’t’.

Welcome to “Can My Dog Eat That?,” our series that answers some obvious (and not-so-obvious) questions about what your dog can and can’t safely eat. Today we answer the question “Can dogs eat hot dogs?” Read on!

First, let’s get one thing clear. Your dog most certainly should not eat a dachshund in a Halloween costume or a dog that’s been out in the sun too long. Now, if you’re asking whether your dog should eat the processed meat product that’s typically sandwiched between halves of a bun and smothered in onions, ketchup and mustard, that’s another story. Well, not too different a story. The answer is similar — your dog probably shouldn’t eat hot dogs. But as a treat, they may be OK for some dogs.

A Hot Dog’s Insides Can Upset Your Dog’s Insides

Hot dogs are a cookout staple, much like sweet potatoes, tomatoes and corn. If you’ve got some hot dogs sizzling on the grill, it’s inevitable that you’re going to turn around and see a drooling dog looking at you with pleading eyes. While hot dogs are not toxic for dogs, some of their ingredients may make you reconsider a one-for-you and one-for-me situation.

Many hot dogs contain spices, seasonings, sweeteners and other additives to help make that tube of meat taste… better. Some of those ingredients may upset your dog’s tummy, particularly if garlic and onion powder are part of the seasoning mix. Fat is another key component of hot dogs that can cause digestive upset if your dog eats too much. As well as an upset tummy, too much fat in your dog’s diet can cause pancreatitis, which can be life threatening.

So. Thirsty. Water! I Need Water!

What could be worse than fat in a hot dog? Salt. The average sodium (salt) content of one regular beef frankfurter is 472 mg according to the USDA FoodData Central integrated data system. That’s about 20 percent of the 2,300 mg recommended daily sodium intake for adult humans reported in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020–2025. And for dogs? That’s over twice the amount of 200 mg recommended by the Committee on Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats (for adult dogs weighing 33 pounds and consuming 1,000 calories per day). So even half a hot dog could put your dog over their recommended sodium intake for the day.

Salt causes thirst in dogs just like it does in people, and too much salt can cause dehydration. So if your dog does eat a hot dog, make sure they have plenty of fresh water available, because they’ll probably be thirrrs-ty. If your dog has chronic kidney disease, they should avoid hot dogs (and other high-sodium foods) because sodium can increase their blood pressure, which can damage their kidneys further.

If You Feed Your Dog a Hot Dog…

An occasional plain hot dog is probably not going to be too harmful for a healthy adult dog, other than potentially causing vomiting or diarrhea and increased thirst. If you do decide to treat your dog to a hot dog, make sure you cut it into bite-sized pieces. Your dog might think they can swallow the whole thing at once, but it could cause them to choke. Make sure you serve it au naturel, too. Garnishing it with onions and mustard is a no-no since both of these toppings are toxic to dogs.

If you really must give in to those pleading eyes, toss them a dog treat instead. Or, if you only have human food around, a healthy snack can work too, like bananas, blueberries or apples (fed in moderation). That way your cookout won’t end with a trip to the veterinary clinic or a mess to clean up.

Interior graphic with text that reads ‘Can my dog eat hot dogs? They probably shouldn’t’.

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