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Everything You Need to Know About Your Pet’s Anal Glands

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How could that ghastly scent emanate from your lovely cat? And why does your dog shockingly splay and scoot their rear along your Berber carpet? Few people consider anal glands when they sign up for a pet, but, like it or not, they’re part of the package.

What Are Anal Glands?

Anal glands, or anal sacs, are two small pouches located under the skin at the 4 o’clock and 8 o’clock positions around the anus. Normally, when pets defecate, the pressure on the anus causes the sacs to release an oily substance with an unmistakably fishy (or other unpleasant) stench.

The prevailing theory is that your pet’s wild ancestors used these scent glands to mark their territory with a signature aroma or as a defense against predators. Although both dogs and cats still have anal glands, domestic pets generally have little need for them today. Except, of course, to sniff out messages left by other pets on the block.

How Will I Know If My Pet Has a Problem?

Occasionally, the anal gland ducts can become blocked, which can lead to impaction and rupture. Or they can become inflamed and infected. Some pets may also develop certain types of cancer associated with the anal glands.

When one or both glands don’t empty naturally, your dog may drag their rear across the carpet in an effort to hasten the process. You may catch a potent whiff of the discharge when you inadvertently startle your pet, causing them to express a bit onto your couch. Because this condition can be painful, your pet may lick or bite at the area. And if an anal gland ruptures, you may notice an ulcerated area with bloody discharge near the anus.

Any time your pet pays too much attention to the nether parts or your sweet dog becomes a stinky dog, it’s time to see your veterinarian.

How Are Anal Gland Problems Treated?

At the clinic, the doctor will manually express the anal glands and check for other problems.

If the sacs are infected, a liquid antibiotic may be infused into them. In more severe cases, your pet may need oral or injectable antibiotics, or pain (or other) medications to help reduce the swelling. Your veterinarian may also recommend warm compresses to help relieve pain and encourage fluid drainage.

Sometimes (like if cancer is discovered), surgical removal of the glands and even radiation treatment may be recommended. Anal gland removal may also be possible for pets with chronic problems, but because of the many muscles and nerves in the area, and the potential for fecal incontinence, it may be worth consulting a surgical specialist.

Can Anal Gland Problems Be Prevented?

Some pets never seem to have problems with their anal glands, while others need to have them periodically expressed. If you’d like to save a little money at the clinic, your veterinarian will be happy to show you how it’s done. However, most people eschew the mess and stink and let others don the latex gloves.

Diet may also help with this pet health problem. Switching to a high-fiber diet, or adding fiber such as psyllium to the current diet, may help produce firmer stools to encourage the glands to empty naturally during defecation. Your veterinarian can recommend a diet that’s right for your pet.

Why Is My Cat Peeing Everywhere?

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A close-up of a gray and black striped cat sitting on a round white rug next to a gray and white litter box and litter scoop.

Of all the problems we might encounter while sharing our lives with cats, one of the most troublesome is litter box issues. Changes in your cat’s behavior regarding their peeing habits should not be left untreated — and not just for the hygiene concerns and the hassle of cleaning up cat pee. Cats have been dubbed the masters of disguise for their skill at masking the signs of illness, and if your cat is peeing outside the litter box or peeing more frequently, it may be your cat’s way of hinting at medical problems.

Why Is My Cat Peeing Outside the Litter Box?

When your cat snubs the litter box, it’s usually not out of revenge. Suddenly peeing in new places may be your cat trying to tell you something’s wrong — litter box problems are one of several possible stress-related behaviors cats exhibit. 

Urinating outside the litter box can also be a sign of a medical condition, like feline lower urinary tract disease, urinary tract crystals or stones, a urinary tract infection or even a partial blockage of the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside. Urinary accidents can also happen because of conditions that make your cat pee more frequently or with greater urgency, such as kidney disease, diabetes and hyperthyroidism (too much thyroid hormone).

Frequent and apparently painful urination can be the sign of a partial or full blockage of the urethra, the tube that channels urine from the bladder to the outside. This tends to occur more often in male cats because their urethras are typically longer and narrower than those of female cats.

These cats tend to void smaller amounts of urine than their large-volume counterparts. They may strain, cry out in pain and even leave evidence of bloody urine. Because the cat may associate the litter box itself with pain, it may avoid the box entirely and urinate in other areas of the house.

How Many Times a Day Should a Cat Pee?

In general, cats pee around two to four times a day. So if you’re finding more urine in the litter box, it usually means your cat is drinking more, too. On average, a healthy 10-pound cat usually drinks about one cup of water a day.

If you suspect that your cat is urinating more, try to determine how much they drink in 24 hours to see if excessive thirst is the cause. Measure fresh water into a bowl in the morning and then keep track of how many times you refill the bowl, measuring each time. The next morning, measure how much is left in the bowl. (For homes with more than one cat, you may need to isolate the cat in question in their own room during this time.) If your cat drinks more than a cup of water per 10 pounds of body weight each day, you should call your veterinarian.

Why Is My Cat Peeing So Much?

A number of diseases in cats can result in increased thirst which then leads to increased urination. The most common are kidney disease, diabetes and hyperthyroidism, an overproduction of thyroid hormone. Of course, hot weather can make your cat drink more too — not all cases of increased urination indicate a health problem.

While you may be tempted to limit your cat’s water so there’s less to clean up in the litter box, you should never do this without consulting your veterinarian first. This can lead to severe dehydration and other problems. It’s better to keep filling the water bowl to keep up with your cat’s thirst.

When to See Your Vet About Litter Box Problems or Increased Urination

If you suspect your cat has a urinary blockage, that is a life-threatening medical emergency, and your cat needs to see the veterinarian immediately. If confirmed by the veterinarian, your cat will most likely require anesthesia and emergency care to unblock the urethra.

If your cat’s not straining to urinate but just appears to be urinating more, it’s still important to schedule a veterinary visit in the near future. Your veterinarian may recommend blood tests, a urinalysis and possibly X-rays or other tests to help determine the underlying cause of the problem.

Why Do Cats Pee on Things? Is It Marking? 

If your cat is urinating outside the litter box and your vet has ruled out a medical condition, they may try to determine if your cat is marking or just urinating. Cats may “spray” in the house to communicate to other cats in the household or neighborhood cats that may stroll through your yard. It’s a way of marking their territory. Urine marking differs from urination in a number of ways. Typically, cats mark on vertical surfaces, often backing up to the couch or doorway with their tail up and quivering. The volume of liquid is usually smaller than what you’d typically find in the litter box. And the urine often contains additional substances that lend a muskier scent to the spray.

Although any cat may mark, including female, neutered or spayed cats, it generally happens more in intact (unneutered) male cats. If your cat is marking, you’ll need to remove the scent and work with your veterinarian to help eliminate this behavior.

Why Is My Cat Peeing on the Floor?

If there are no underlying medical reasons and your cat isn’t marking, it could just be that your cat is fussy about their litter box. You can make environmental changes that will address your cat’s concerns:

  • Abide by the 1 + 1 rule. You should have multiple boxes: one litter box for every cat in the household plus one more. So, if you have three cats, you should have at least four litter boxes.
  • Size matters. The litter box should be at least 1.5 times the length of your cat (excluding the tail). If you have an older cat, consider a box with lower sides. Many cats will avoid covered boxes.
  • Keep it clean. A dirty litter box drives cats elsewhere to get themselves clean. Scoop the litter at least once a day or even more often if you have multiple cats — clumping litter might make your task much easier. Discard the litter about once a week and wash the litter box with a mild dishwashing soap.
  • Try different litters, including unscented litter. Does your cat prefer a different texture or smell? 
  • Access. Older cats with painful arthritis may avoid the litter box if the sides are too high to climb over or if they have to ascend or descend flights of stairs to get there. Kittens have to be able to get to the box and climb in.
  • Location, location, location. Most cats like privacy, so avoid placing the litter box in high-traffic areas.

Does My Cat Have a Behavior Problem?

Sometimes, cats turn their tails up at the litter box because they’re stressed. Any changes in the household, such as the addition of a new baby, construction workers in the house or bullying by another cat in the family, can upset the cat’s routine, and anxious cats can have accidents. If this is the case, work with your veterinarian to devise a plan to help minimize your cat’s stress — and hopefully, their inappropriate urination activities.

When it comes to cat urine, everyone in the house notices a cat’s litter box habits, which means early intervention to make sure any medical issues are under control and your cat’s well-being and quality of life is maintained.

Work With Your Vet to Choose an Over-the-Counter Food for Your Diabetic Pet

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A diabetic pet can be expensive. There’s the cost of the insulin, the syringes and the frequent veterinary visits. So do you really need to pay for a prescription diet, on top of all that?

Not necessarily.

It depends on several factors, including whether your diabetic pet is a cat or a dog, their weight and any other health conditions.

Cats usually have type 2 diabetes, meaning their bodies may be unable to properly use insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas. Sometimes, this type of diabetes can be reversed, meaning the cat can go into remission and insulin injections are no longer needed. And diet can play a big part in that.

Dogs, on the other hand, tend to have type 1 diabetes, which is a deficiency in insulin. Diet may help manage the condition, but it usually can’t lead to diabetic remission.

Because there are many factors to consider, it’s important to talk to your veterinarian when choosing a food for your diabetic pet.

For Diabetic Cats, Protein’s Where It’s At

In studies, diabetic cats given insulin and a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet were more likely to go into remission than those fed a high-fiber, moderate-carbohydrate diet. Because cats are obligate carnivores, the high-protein diet more closely mirrors a diet they might eat in the wild.

Your veterinarian may also recommend a canned formula. Compared with dry diets, canned foods tend to be higher in protein and lower in carbohydrates.

If you switch your diabetic cat to a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet, it’s important to do so under the guidance of a veterinarian. With this type of diet, your cat may need less insulin over time. Giving the same amount of insulin could put your cat at risk for hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar. While cats in remission no longer require insulin, it is important to keep feeding the high-protein diet to reduce the likelihood of them becoming diabetic again. With this type of diet, your cat may need less insulin over time. However, it’s important to always work with your veterinarian to ensure you aren’t putting your cat at risk for hypoglycemia or low blood sugar.

For Diabetic Dogs, Fiber May Help

Unlike cats, diabetic dogs do not require a high-protein diet, but they may benefit from a diet that’s high in fiber. This type of diet can slow absorption of glucose from the intestines, so there are fewer spikes in blood glucose directly after a meal.

A diabetic dog that is well controlled on insulin and is a normal weight may be fine on complete and balanced over-the-counter foods that are appropriate for the dog’s age and health. Again, it’s important to consult your veterinarian to make sure a diabetic dog is receiving the nutrition they need.

Weight Is Another Issue

While weight loss in an overweight pet is usually a good thing, it can also be a sign of diabetes. If that’s the diagnosis, and the pet’s condition becomes controlled with insulin, the weight loss should slow down or stop. However, if the pet remains obese, your veterinarian may recommend a special (either OTC or prescription) diet. For animals who are diabetic, obesity can make their cells less sensitive to insulin. In these cases, a weight management diet that helps them gradually lose weight might be best. A high-fiber, low-fat and low-calorie diet may be beneficial for both dogs and cats. The high-protein diet mentioned above may also help cats drop the additional pounds.

Many pets that have diabetes for a long time before they are diagnosed may actually become too thin. In these cases, your veterinarian may recommend a high-fat, high-protein diet to help them back to a normal weight, or keep them on the same diet but in increased quantities.

Take Other Health Conditions Into Account

If your pet has other health conditions, such as kidney or digestive tract disease, your veterinarian may suggest additional adjustments to your pet’s diet. A cat with advanced kidney disease, for example, may benefit from a diet that is somewhat lower in protein and phosphorus than the high-protein foods typically suggested for cats with diabetes only.

The Bottom Line

Diabetes in a pet isn’t a death sentence, and it’s certainly not a death sentence for your wallet. While some cases require more complicated measures as far as diet goes, it very well may be possible to buy what your pet needs over the counter. Since every pet is unique, it pays to work with your veterinarian to land on the diet that works best for your pet.

Probiotics Maintain the Natural Balance for Your Pet

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The digestive tract is more than a conveyor belt for processing food. It’s also the largest immune organ in the body. As such, it’s believed to play an important role in your pet’s overall immune function and health. And probiotics are essential to helping it do the job.

Much of the digestive tract’s ability to affect immunity depends on the balance of beneficial and potentially harmful bacteria inside the digestive tract. Normally, these bacteria help digest food, absorb nutrients, support intestinal function, manufacture vitamins and modulate the immune system.

But the natural balance of these bacteria in your pet can be disrupted by a number of factors such as sudden diet changes, garbage ingestion, the stress of boarding or travel, and even antibiotics. This can cause an increase in harmful bacteria at the expense of beneficial bacteria, leading to diarrhea and sometimes vomiting.

Restoring the balance with probiotics

Oral administration of live, beneficial bacteria, or probiotics, in the right amounts may help boost the number of beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract and reduce the number of harmful bacteria. Although scientists are still learning about probiotics, studies in both human and veterinary medicine have shown promising results. Human studies, for example, indicate that probiotic administration may help with intestinal disease, diabetes, some skin allergies, weight loss, liver disease and more.

The nutritional benefits for pets may also extend beyond resolving diarrhea. One study in puppies, for example, showed that probiotics may help improve their immune response to vaccination.

How probiotics work

While probiotics are still being studied, it has been suggested that they work by making the intestinal environment less welcoming for harmful bacteria. These beneficial bacteria may make the surrounding area more acidic, take up adhesion sites on the intestinal lining, use up more nutrients and even produce compounds that might destroy the harmful bacteria.

All probiotics aren’t the same

The next time your pet has diarrhea, you might be tempted to feed him grocery store yogurt, with active bacterial cultures. But the same probiotics that may help people might not do the trick for animals. There is some evidence that species-specific probiotics, containing the particular strains of bacteria normally found in the dog or cat’s digestive tract, may deliver better results.

Of course, it doesn’t matter if the probiotic contains the right bacteria if they can’t survive manufacturing, storage or the acids in a pet’s gastrointestinal tract. So probiotics must undergo rigorous testing to ensure they’re viable in the animal. Testing is also important to make sure the bacterial strains are safe for the animal, capable of enhancing the bacterial balance in the gut, and ideally, able to positively impact the immune system.

Probiotics for pets are typically available in pill and powder form, or may be part of a nutritious diet. For example, every Taste of the Wild dry canine formula is enhanced with K9 Strain® Probiotics and every Taste of the Wild dry feline formula contains Viables® Probiotics. These strains are added after the cooking process to help ensure the beneficial bacteria are alive and able to support healthy digestion for your pet.

As always, if you have any questions about how probiotics can help your pet, talk to your veterinarian.

Healthy Snack Choices to Tip the Scales in Your Pet’s Favor

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Food is love, right? We embrace our pets with tasty morsels as a reward for going potty. Or a buttery biscuit slipped under the kitchen table. And a scoop of ice cream while watching TV. So is it any wonder that an estimated 56 percent of dogs and 60 percent of cats in America are overweight or obese?

But pets are often the real losers when we show this kind of love. Overweight dogs have been shown to live an average of two years less than their lean counterparts. And extra weight puts pets at risk for all kinds of health problems, from diabetes, arthritis and high blood pressure to heart and lung disease, cranial cruciate ligament injury and numerous types of cancer.

So if you really want to show your pet how much you love him or her, consider switching to healthy, low-calorie treats. And remember, if you don’t want your pet’s diet to become unbalanced, treats should never account for more than 10 percent of the total calorie allotment for the day. When in doubt, ask your veterinarian how many calories your pet should be eating daily, and if there’s a treat available from your favorite pet food manufacturer, don’t hesitate to ask about it as well.

FOR DOGS, THINK FRUITS AND VEGGIES

Most dogs are more than happy to crunch on a raw carrot. Same goes for green beans, broccoli, cauliflower, asparagus, celery, cucumber, zucchini and even cubes of baked sweet potato. You can slice ’em, dice ’em and even cook vegetables, too. And there’s no need for butter, salt or candied sauce — most dogs like veggies just the way they are.

Popular fruits for dogs include bananas, pears and apples (just make sure to remove the apple seeds, which can contain small amounts of cyanide). Strawberries, raspberries, oranges and blueberries are OK too. You can even puree fruits like pumpkins and seedless watermelons and freeze them inside a Kong. Just don’t go overboard because too many fruits and vegetables could lead to gastrointestinal upset.

A handful of air-popped popcorn, without added salt, is another low-calorie alternative.

There are, however, some fruits and vegetables you definitely don’t want to give dogs because of potential toxicity. These include grapes, raisins, currants, onions, garlic, chives and leeks. It’s also best to avoid fruits with large pits, which could pose a choking hazard or result in a digestive tract obstruction.

Good and Bad Fruits and Veggies for Pets Chart | Taste of the Wild

WHAT ABOUT CAT TREATS?

Cats, being carnivores, are all about lean meats and fish. A few bites of salmon, tuna or lean chicken will most likely elicit a purr. Raw vegetables, including carrots, green beans and broccoli are fine as long as they are cut into tiny pieces. To avoid a choking hazard, cooking the vegetables may be a better option. A spoonful of canned pumpkin (without added spices) can provide your kitty with added moisture and fiber, too.

Surprisingly, many cats are fond of fruits such as cantaloupe and watermelon. But it’s not the sugary flavor they’re after, since cats can’t taste sweetness.

Garlic, onions, chives and leeks are also on the no-no list for cats because of potential toxicity.

With so many healthy options for your pets, you can treat them with love and still help them keep their svelte shape.

Why Mutts? Why Not?

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Purveyors of designer dogs recently discovered what mutt owners have known all along: Amazing things happen when you mix things up.

Although breeders can command large sums for crossbred dogs such as labradoodles, puggles, schnoodles (schnauzer and poodle) and chugs (Chihuahua and pug), mutts really aren’t that different — their genetic decks are just shuffled a bit more.

To help celebrate National Mutt Day on July 31, we’re honoring mixed-breed dogs with a list of things that make them so great.

Mutts are the most popular dogs in America

According to the American Humane Association, mixed breed dogs account for 53 percent of all dogs in the United States. Why are they so popular? Maybe it’s because you can get a dog that’s as one-of-a-kind as you are.

They’re anything but cookie cutter

If variety really is the spice of life, mutts can add more zest. After all, they come in every shape, size and color imaginable. Whether you prefer long or short curly coats, sweeping tails or little nubs, smooshed-in noses or elegant snouts — even freckles — there’s no doubt that there’s a mutt out there with the perfect combination of features you have in mind.

They bring out the best in you

If you’ve got a soft heart, look no further than your local animal shelter. According to a recent study, approximately 95 percent of the dogs in shelters are mutts.  Adopting a mutt is a win/win: You can feel good about giving a deserving dog a place to call home and you get a great companion in the bargain.

They’re conversation starters

At the dog park, people can’t resist guessing whether your dog is a papillon-Lhasa apso mix or a Bedlington terrier-cocker spaniel combination.  You can keep them guessing or you can submit a doggie DNA sample to help you identify the branches and leaves on your pup’s genealogical tree

They’re no less (or more) healthier than purebreds

For years, it was generally accepted that mixed-breed dogs were healthier than purebreds because they swam in a deeper genetic pool. A recent study examining 24 genetic disorders shows that may not necessarily be the case. While purebred dogs had a greater risk of developing 10 of the disorders than mutts, another 13 disorders seemed to affect both purebreds and their mixed counterparts, including hip dysplasia, cancers and patellar (knee) luxation.

Moral of the story: Mutts may be more likely to escape some genetic disorders but not all of them. With a DNA test, you might be able to determine breeds most likely in your pup’s mix, so your veterinarian may be able to monitor or screen for genetic diseases associated with those breeds.

They’re just like us

If the popularity of human DNA genealogy tests is any indication, aren’t we essentially mixes ourselves, just trying to determine our own personal ancestry? As such, it’s easy to understand why mixes of the canine kind are so deserving of our love.

Dog Food Ingredients: Learning How to Read Dog Food Labels

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A brown and white border collie with bright blue eyes looking up while holding an empty metal food bowl in its mouth.

Walking down the pet food aisle or shopping for dog food online can be an overwhelming experience. With thousands of options available, how do you know which food is right for your dog? A good place to start is the dog food label. Learning how to decode it will help you know what to look for when searching for a healthy diet for your dog.

What Information Is on Dog Food Labels?

The information found on dog food packaging is either required or optional, and some sections are more helpful than others when choosing a food. All pet foods must meet the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) standards for sale. Under current federal and state regulations, all dog food labels are required to include specific information stated in particular ways:

  • Brand and product name
  • Pet species the product is intended for (e.g., dog)
  • Net weight of the food in the package
  • Guaranteed analysis of specific nutrients
  • Nutritional adequacy statement, which tells the type and the dog’s life stage the product is suited for
  • List of all ingredients in descending order by weight, including water
  • Feeding instructions
  • Calorie content
  • Best by or expiration date
  • Manufacturer’s or distributor’s name and address

While pet food labels are factual, they’re also used to capture your attention in order to provide additional information about product features and benefits.

Pet Food Label Modernization Project

Many pet food regulations are based on guidelines established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). The Pet Food Label Modernization project was started by AAFCO to align pet food labels more closely with human food labeling and improve consumer understanding. The timing for completion of the project varies by state, but you may notice pet food brands transitioning their labels over the next few years. These changes apply to all pet and specialty pet foods, including complete foods, treats, supplements and mixers.

Changes to the label include: 

  • A “Pet Nutrition Facts” box that looks similar to a human food label
  • Calories stated using common household measurements (e.g., calories per cup)
  • The nutritional adequacy statement relocated to the bottom of Pet Nutrition Facts for easy location
  • The intended use statement required on the lower third of the main display panel to easily identify the intended life stage and purpose of the food
  • Updated ingredient statements to clarify the use of parentheticals and common or usual names
  • Standardized handling and storage directions, and creation of optional icons

How Are Dog Food Ingredients Listed on the Label?

When choosing a dog food, many pet parents begin by checking the ingredient list. Ingredients are listed by weight, which means items with higher water content — such as animal proteins (chicken, lamb, beef or fish), as well as vegetables — often appear before dry ingredients like lamb meal or duck meal, even when the dry ingredients may provide more concentrated nutrition.

Protein sources are especially important because they help support muscle growth, tissue repair and energy needs. Pet food manufacturers can supply the protein and amino acids found in dog foods from three categories: animal-based ingredients, plant-based ingredients and amino acid supplements.

Several protein sources are often combined in pet foods to optimize the amino acid profile and overall nutrient composition of the finished diet. This practice is known as protein complementation, and it’s used because different protein ingredients contain different amounts of essential and nonessential amino acids. That’s why it’s common to see dog foods with one or more animal proteins, plant proteins and amino acid supplements.

Carbohydrates like rice, oats or sweet potatoes provide energy, while fats supply essential fatty acids that support a healthy coat and skin. Vitamins, minerals and antioxidants are also added to promote immune function and overall well-being. Some formulas include ingredients such as glucosamine, probiotics or omega-3 fatty acids (such as fish oil) for joint, heart and gut health.

It’s important to remember that dogs require nutrients — not specific ingredients. Ingredients are simply the sources of those nutrients. In addition to delivering nutrition, ingredients contribute to flavor, texture and freshness, helping create a food dogs enjoy eating while supporting their overall health.

What Is a Complete and Balanced Dog Food?

Although AAFCO does not directly regulate the pet food industry, it sets recognized standards for complete and balanced pet nutrition. “Complete and balanced” means the food provides all essential nutrients for the intended life stage when fed as directed. Dog food can only be labeled as providing complete and balanced nutrition if it meets or exceeds AAFCO’s minimum nutritional requirements or has successfully completed recognized feeding trials.

When selecting a dog food, look for statements indicating that the product is formulated to meet AAFCO nutritional standards or that its claims have been validated through AAFCO feeding trials. The nutritional adequacy statement provides several important details: 

  • Whether the food is complete and balanced, or intended only for supplemental or intermittent feeding 
  • The life stage the food is designed for 
  • How the manufacturer determined the food is complete and balanced

It is also important to choose a pet food produced by a reputable and knowledgeable company that follows rigorous quality control and food safety practices. Taste of the Wild recipes are determined to be complete and balanced by formulation, which is supported with testing of the finished food to verify the presence of key nutrients. Taste of the Wild dog food is made in manufacturing facilities in the United States.

Ingredients to Look for in Dog Food

Some ingredients in pet food provide additional features beyond basic nutrition when used as part of a complete and balanced diet. These “functional” ingredients include whole grains, fruits and vegetables, flaxseed and fish oils for key omega fatty acids, prebiotics and probiotics. 

Every Taste of the Wild dry canine recipe is enhanced with K9 Strain® Probiotics: good bacteria that are added to our recipes to help support healthy digestion. Other functional ingredients included in our recipes include:

  • Blueberries: Rich in fiber and antioxidants, blueberries are considered to be a superfood.
  • Carrots: Rich in vitamin A and like sweet potatoes and pumpkin, carrots get their color from beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant.
  • Green or yellow peas: Ground to a flour consistency, this carbohydrate source is also a source of protein, fiber and plant-based nutrients such as antioxidants and vitamins.
  • Dried tomato pomace: A fiber source that helps support digestive health and firm stools. Sourced from tomatoes, it contributes vitamin C, lycopene and other important antioxidants.
  • Raspberries: These berries contain antioxidants that help support overall good health.

Ingredients to Avoid in Dog Food

The FDA requires that all ingredients in commercial pet food are safe and have been approved for use. If pet owners are not buying commercially manufactured dog food, they should check that it does not contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs such as garlic, onion, macadamia nuts or chocolate. You should also avoid purchasing dog food with ingredients that you know your dog has sensitivities or allergies to.

Feeding Guidelines for Dog Life Stages

A complete and balanced dog food should provide the essential nutrients dogs need, including protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. The ideal balance of these nutrients depends on factors such as age, breed size, activity level and overall health. For example, highly active dogs and large-breed dogs often have different nutritional requirements than smaller or less active dogs.

Understanding nutrient requirements is especially important for growing puppies. Puppies require a complete and balanced diet specifically formulated to support healthy growth, strong bones and developing immune systems. 

Adult dogs, on the other hand, benefit from formulas designed to maintain long-term health and energy needs. Senior dogs may require special feeding care because their nutritional needs change with age. As dogs grow older, they often become less active and may gain weight more easily, so they usually need fewer calories than younger adult dogs. Their diet should contain high-quality protein to help maintain muscle mass, along with moderate fat levels and added fiber to support healthy digestion. Many senior dog foods also include nutrients such as glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids to help support joint health and mobility.

Dogs with certain medical conditions may benefit from therapeutic or veterinarian-recommended diets that help manage symptoms and support overall well-being. Every dog is unique, and feeding habits should reflect individual preferences, lifestyle and health status. The amount, type and frequency of food can vary depending on a dog’s activity level, metabolism and individual needs. 

 

Dog food labels provide an important tool for pet food manufacturers to communicate nutritional information to dog owners. If you are still unsure of what to feed, your veterinarian can help you select the right food for your dog.

Is My Cat Overweight? Cat Obesity Signs and Management

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An extremely overweight gray and white cat walking outside in the sun.

A few extra pounds may not seem like a big deal, but carrying excess weight can have meaningful effects on the overall health and long-term well-being of your cat. Even gradual weight gain can influence how your cat moves, rests and regulates basic bodily functions, often before obvious changes are easy to spot. That’s why it’s important to regularly check your cat’s body condition and make sure all that fluff really is just fluff. 

What Is the Average Weight of a Cat?

There is no single number that defines a healthy cat’s weight. Your cat’s ideal weight depends on their breed, age, body frame, lean muscle mass and daily activity level. While many adult cats fall within a general range of 8 to 12 pounds, this is only a starting point and does not apply to every cat.

For example, two cats with the same body weight may fall into different weight categories based on muscle tone and fat distribution (e.g., a 20-pound Devon rex vs. a 20-pound Maine coon). This is why determining your cat’s ideal weight is best done with veterinary guidance, using both physical assessment and overall health history.

Are Overweight Cats Common?

Overweight and obese cats are increasingly common, and, unfortunately, that’s not good. An obese or overweight cat is at increased risk for a number of health conditions, including heart disease, arthritis, high blood pressure, diabetes, urinary tract diseases and liver disease. Excess weight also places added strain on their joints, which can make everyday movements like jumping, climbing and grooming more difficult.

Over time, reduced mobility may lead to lower activity levels, creating a cycle that makes further weight gain more likely. Obesity in cats has also been associated with a shorter life expectancy in cats, as chronic conditions linked to excess weight may develop earlier and progress more quickly. 

Because cats are naturally skilled at masking discomfort, weight-related issues may go unnoticed at first. Subtle changes in their behavior, such as less interest in play or hesitation when jumping, are often attributed to normal aging rather than the early effects of excess weight.

Is My Cat Overweight?

The best way to tell if your cat is overweight is to assess their body condition. Veterinarians use a standardized body condition score to classify whether a cat is underweight, at a healthy weight or overweight. This approach provides a consistent way to evaluate body fat and guide weight management decisions. Because body condition can change gradually, periodic at-home checks you can do yourself can also help identify early shifts.

A healthy weight is typically indicated when a cat’s ribs are easy to feel beneath a thin layer of fat, a slight waistline is visible when viewed from above and their abdomen gently tucks upward when viewed from the side.

First, gently run your hands along your cat’s sides. You should be able to feel their ribs easily beneath a thin layer of fat. If their ribs are difficult to feel or require firm pressure, excess weight may be present. Next, look at your cat from above. When viewed from this angle, a healthy cat typically shows a slight waist or indent behind their ribs. Now look at them from the side. A sagging belly or lack of abdominal tuck can indicate extra weight. Take your cat for a checkup if you’re concerned that they are showing signs of excess weight. 

Why Is My Cat Getting Fat?

The simple, scientific answer is that weight gain occurs when calorie intake consistently exceeds energy use. But why does this happen? Indoor cats are particularly prone to weight gain because they typically burn fewer calories than outdoor cats and may have fewer opportunities for spontaneous movement.

Common lifestyle contributors include free feeding, oversized portions, frequent treats (including human foods), reduced activity levels and changes following spaying or neutering. In homes with more than one cat, shared feeding spaces can also complicate portion control and lead to overeating.

Environmental factors play a role as well. Limited vertical space and predictable routines can reduce daily movement. Over time, even small calorie excesses can add up, leading to gradual weight gain that may go unnoticed if unchecked. That’s why it’s important to limit treats to less than 10 percent of your cat’s total daily calorie intake — no matter how much they complain about it. 

How to Help My Cat Lose Weight

If your veterinarian has advised that weight loss is needed for your cat, the goal should always be gradual progress rather than rapid restriction. Sudden reductions in food intake can be harmful and may increase the risk of hepatic lipidosis, which can be serious for cats. A steady, measured approach is safer and more sustainable.

Start by working with your vet to rule out underlying health issues, unexplained weight gain or age-related changes, particularly in older cats. Your vet can help determine a target weight, calculate appropriate calorie intake and recommend a feeding plan tailored to your cat’s needs.

Portion control plays an important role. Free feeding often leads to overeating, especially for indoor cats with limited opportunities for physical activity. Measuring the amount of food your cat has access to helps regulate calorie intake and reduces the risk of unintentional overfeeding. Any uneaten food in the bowl should be removed between meals to discourage grazing.

Feeding routines can also be adjusted to encourage movement and mental stimulation. Using a feeding toy, placing food on cat trees or feeding cats in separate rooms in a multi-cat household can help increase activity while preventing competition or food sharing.

Exercise supports both weight management and overall wellness. Interactive play, climbing, chasing toys or even exploring a cardboard box can help maintain lean muscle mass and support long-term weight loss. Short, regular play sessions throughout the day are often more effective than occasional longer sessions.

Monitoring is important to make sure your favorite feline is making weight-loss progress. Your veterinarian can make adjustments (if necessary) to your cat’s diet or exercise plan to help keep them on track toward a better quality of life and prevention of obesity-related diseases.

Off the Beaten Path: How to Hike with Your Dog

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Taste of the Wild

With summer right around the corner, it’s time to think about ways to get out and enjoy the nice weather. A great way to soak up those rays is by getting outside and hitting the trails — and your pooch probably agrees! Here are some things to keep in mind as you get ready to take your dog hiking.

Is Your Dog Ready?

Trail Etiquette
The last thing anyone wants when they’re hiking is an unruly dog that lunges at them when they pass by. According to the hiking experts at REI, an outdoor outfitter based near Seattle, Washington, knowing what sorts of situations can set your dog off is important to avoid an aggravated pooch or fellow hikers.

Additionally, be sure to know the leash laws for any dusty path you venture down with your dog. You can usually find the specific leash requirements for your chosen trail by looking at the “rules and regulations” section of a park’s or municipality’s website. Many trail maps will mention the regulations as well. When in doubt, however, always leash your dog.

To help your dog become more comfortable with hiking, start out by trying low-traffic trails. This may mean trying out hiking during the off-season.

Physical Capabilities
Even if your dog is raring to go, some trails may be too much for them. Know what sort of exercise your dog is capable of and make sure that the trail is a good fit for you and your dog’s expertise level. For those dogs who aren’t used to hiking, Dogster recommends building “endurance with shorter hikes before attempting longer, more difficult ones.”

What to Pack

Being prepared for your hike means knowing what to pack. REI lists some basic hiking gear that you should pack for your pup:

  • Food and water (and dishes)
  • First aid pack
  • Booties, vests or coats
  • Leashes

Doggy Packs
If you expect your hiking buddy to carry their own pack, ease them into it. Putting a loaded pack on your dog and assuming that they will be fine rarely pans out well. REI offers some helpful advice for easing your dog into carrying their own gear on a hike:

If you want your pet to carry some of the load, start off by having him or her wear a pack around the house, then on short walks, then longer walks. You should also start with lighter loads. It’s safe to work to up to one-third of your dog’s weight if your dog is in healthy physical condition. For dogs who are older or in poor physical condition, consider leaving them at home with friends. They’ll be much happier… and safer, too.

Feeding Your Active Dog

To help your dog keep up with you on the trails, it’s important to feed them food that offers ingredients with higher protein and fat than the average dog food. A good source of energy for active dogs is the Ancient Wetlands Canine Recipe with Roasted Fowl. Read more about this product to find out if it’s the right fit for your furry pal.

After the Hike

Chances are good that your pup is going to sleep like a baby after a long hike. But before they are down for the count, check your dog for ticks or injuries.

Since dogs burn energy faster than humans, it’s important to pack some food for your tired and, most likely, hungry dog to munch on after the hike.

Train Your Dog to Herd Backyard Chickens

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Taste of the Wild

Backyard chicken herding can be a relief for the hobby farmer for two reasons: first, it allows your chickens to range freely in the yard without hassle from predators; and second, it provides stimulating exercise for your pooch.

However, while your dog may have natural herding instincts, in order to successfully herd chickens, he or she will need training to learn to be gentle around the fowl and successfully herd them back into their coop.

Is my dog right for herding?

Herding dogs possess natural instincts and high intelligence, making them ideal for household and farming tasks.

The most common chicken-herding dogs are:

  • Australian shepherd
  • Border collie
  • Shetland sheepdog
  • Great Pyrenees
  • Collie
  • Welsh corgi

Other dogs can certainly learn to herd chickens — it’s just a bit easier to start with a breed that naturally enjoys the task.

Training your dog

Teaching your dog new skills

According to dog behaviorist and expert trainer Carolyn Georgariou, the key to your dog becoming a herding master is learning how to leave it. While your dog should know all the basics, such as come, heel, lie down, sit, and stay, knowing how to leave it is essential for your dog to remain well-behaved around your chickens. If your dog struggles with these commands, well . . . chicken herding might be a bit of a reach.

Once your dog has these basic instructions mastered, move on to more complex commands. The goal, as you introduce your dog to your chickens, is to be able to implement your basic directions while training for more complex, herding-specific commands.

Gauging your dog’s behavior

Natural herding instincts will be displayed early on for many herding dogs. To spot these signs, watch how he or she interacts with you or other animals. If he or she likes to circle around you in an attempt to influence you in a specific direction, it is a good sign that he or she will easily and effectively learn how to herd your chickens.

Some dogs may even naturally start herding after watching you interact with the chickens.

“I used my Australian shepherd to herd chickens,” said Kim Pezza, author of the Backyard Farming series. “She watched me put the birds in for a short time, then one day she looked at me as if to say, ‘I want to help.’ Every night for the rest of her life, she brought the chickens in from the woods… however I never really trained her.”

Play some catch

Not only is playing catch an excellent form of exercise, it also teaches your dog basic obedience skills and will help him or her develop his or her chasing instincts. To make this more applicable to herding chickens (and to prevent thinning your flock unintentionally), teach your dog to catch only on command.

Introducing your herder to the herd

Start the introduction process slowly to avoid aggression from your dog. If your dog seems anxious, take a break and reintroduce the chickens after he or she has calmed down. Repeating this process will lessen the chance of your dog becoming overexcited around your backyard fowl in the future.

Don’t let the herder hurt the herd

After you’ve introduced your dog to your chickens and have started training him or her to herd real animals, watch your dog’s body language. It will be clear if your dog is capable of and ready for this task.

A good herder should approach the chickens with his or her tail down and run circles around them. If your dog does this while remaining attentive to your commands, you can be confident in him or her. If not, you may need to continue training — or even scrap the idea entirely.

Remember, if your dog is not interested in herding chickens, he or she will not respond to any chicken-related training that you introduce to him or her.

All in a day’s work

It takes time and commitment to train a dog to herd animals, but once this process is completed, your herding dog can be a very helpful resource for you and your backyard farm. By honing his or her herding skills, you’ll soon find that your dog will be ready to help you raise your chickens.