4 Ways You’re Annoying Your Cat

by Lisa Selvaggio

Published: July 6th, 2017

It’s not a smart idea to piss off a pet that has no problem showing you her claws! Here are four ways you’re annoying your cat.

The last thing you want to do is annoy your loveable feline companion, but sometimes we all make mistakes and end up doing things that our kitties aren’t particularly fond of.

Could you be annoying your cat without realizing it? Check out the short list below so you can discover what you should avoid doing to keep your cat as content as possible.

Being Pushy-Affectionate

Your cat loves being pampered, and she’ll really enjoy a good snuggle session in your lap. And while your cat might also like it when you kiss her, if you overdo your affectionate behavior, you could instead end up annoying your feline friend.

When it comes to cats, waiting for them to come to you is a good rule to follow, but keep in mind that every kitty is different. Some cats are perfectly fine with being picked up and given kisses, while others will make it a point to do everything they can to get out of your grasp as quickly as possible. The key is to simply spend time getting to know your cat and her limitations, and then respecting those boundaries so you don’t end up irritating her even though you’re just trying to love her.

Playing Music at a High Volume or Making Loud Noises

Playing music at a high volume might be what you like to do to unwind, but your cat probably doesn’t appreciate it at all. Thanks to their keen sense of hearing, cats are able to hear a lot more than human ears can. This means that their sensitive ears can be bothered by music that’s blaring from your speakers.

To keep everyone happy, don’t force your cat to deal with painfully loud music; instead, give your cat a place to retreat to if you’re planning on playing your music loudly. If that’s not possible, lower the music to a reasonable volume or consider wearing headphones.

In the same way that loud music can bother your kitty’s delicate ears, loud noises in general can do the same. A loud TV, a loud child, banging pots and pans in the kitchen, etc., can all be really irritating to your cat. Giving your pet that much-needed quiet area of the house to retreat to is a good way to ensure she can escape even when you can’t avoid being noisy.

Participating in Super Short Play Sessions

Playtime is exercise time for your pet. She gets to release pent-up energy, test out her hunting abilities, and have some fun while bonding with you. So if you’re pulling out a cat toy to play with your pet for just a couple of minutes, you could be annoying her.

Generally, cats prefer playing until they’re tired out, as well as when they’ve been able to take down their “prey.” Simply giving your pet the chance to play to her heart’s content will help keep her happy, and you can even end your play sessions by giving her a treat to simulate the experience of stalking, killing, and eating prey.

Using Strong Fragrances

You already know that your kitty is far less likely to use the litter box if it’s dirty and stinky, so it should come as no surprise that your pet’s sensitive nose won’t appreciate other strong odors either, whether it’s your perfume, soap, an air freshener, or a cleaning product with a strong scent. Consider using products that are fragrance-free or that have subtle fragrances derived from natural sources; your cat will be grateful if you do.

Keeping your kitty happy might be more complicated than you thought, especially when you consider how your daily habits could actually be annoying your pet. Making a few tweaks to the way you do things, though, will ensure everyone will be satisfied.

Lisa Selvaggio

Lisa Selvaggio is a freelance writer and editor, and our resident cats-pert, with certifications in pet nutrition and pet first aid. She enjoys producing content that helps people understand animals better so they can give their pets a safe and happy home.

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To Your Cat, You’re Just Another Cat

You’re more than your cat’s best friend – you’re another cat! Here’s what research has to say about the relationships and humans. You share your home with your cat, but have you ever wondered what your furry friend really thinks of you? It turns out that your kitty sees you not as a human, but as a fellow feline. How interesting is that?! This sort of brings a new meaning to the idea that your cat is a part of your family, doesn’t it? After all, if your kitty views you as an equal, it isn’t so strange for you to view him as your equal too. Plus, knowing more about your feline friend’s perception of you can do more than just reinforce your bond, it can also help you better understand his behavior and his needs. We’re fascinated by research into animal behavior, and we are always ready to learn about the best ways to take care of furbabies who rely on humans. So, let’s take a look at what led experts to conclude that your cat sees you as another kitty, shall we? A Bit of Background Everyone knows that, despite their many similarities, dogs and cats are quite different from one another. And because of those differences and these animals’ unique needs, taking care of a pooch isn’t exactly the same as taking care of a kitty. When you consider some of the differences between dogs and cats, you might think about things like exercise needs, independence, and nutritional requirements. But cat behavior expert and author, John Bradshaw, came to the conclusion that there is yet another difference between dogs and cats, and it has to do with the way that they view people and understand them. Below is a short summary of what his findings have to say about your pet. The Research: Observing Cats Think about how much you have learned on your own about your feline companion. How did you learn so much? You probably gained a lot of insight into your kitty’s needs and preferences simply by observing her, right? There’s so much that pets can teach us once we get to know their one-of-a-kind personalities, as well as their likes and dislikes. One cat can be very different from another, but the only way to figure it out is by taking the time to observe what makes them happy versus what makes them feel scared or frustrated. When keeping all of this in mind, it doesn’t come as much of a surprise that Bradshaw used observation to learn more about cats and how they view their human caretakers. Bradshaw’s research involved many hours of closely observing various groups of kitties. For example, he would watch cats in free-ranging colonies, as well as those in animal shelters. His goal was to see how the animals interact with each other, as that would help him figure out the feline social structure. And he has also gone further to study how cats’ behavior changes throughout the day. The Conclusion: You’re Just a Big Cat According to Bradshaw, your cat doesn’t view you like a dog would, perhaps because felines haven’t been bred in the same way that dogs have to fulfill specific roles. While experts have found that a dog will perceive you as different from himself, and will change his behavior as a result, cats typically don’t exhibit these tendencies. As an example, a dog will play differently with a fellow canine than he would with a human. But cats continue being themselves, whether they are socializing with their own kind or with their human family. In other words, cats haven’t changed their social behavior based on whether or not they are interacting with people. So when your cat rubs against your legs, grooms you, snuggles up next to you, or puts his tail into the air, he’s displaying the same behavior that he would display with other felines. On top of that, your kitty is likely to exhibit the same types of behaviors around you as he would show around his mother, especially if he feels comfortable and at ease and wants to show you that he cares. For example, kittens knead their mothers, and adult cats sometimes knead their owners. Basically, kittens learn how to communicate with their mom, and adult cats continue using those behaviors to communicate with one another and their human family. It’s also worth mentioning that this research found that cats are smart and learn how to interact with their owners to get what they want and need. For instance, they can learn the routine of every human in the house, so if you end up getting up early in the morning and feeding your cat but your spouse stays in bed, your kitty will know to bother you for some food. And your clever feline can use various vocalizations to get your attention by learning how you react to different sounds. Smart cats! Side note: You might come across articles on this topic which state the conclusion of the research was that your kitty views you as a “cat” that’s just much larger and dumber. But, according to an interview that Bradshaw did with National Geographic, this isn’t correct. Bradshaw clarified that kitties will act the same way around people as they will around other cats they like. Understanding Feline Behavior Better Can Help You Keep Your Pet Happy Bradshaw also noted that humans are sometimes unaware of their cats’ stress levels. As in people, stress could affect your kitty’s physical and mental health. For instance, if you have a multi-cat household and there are conflicts between the cats, that stress might lead to health problems that would require both veterinary attention as well as adjustments to help your cats get along better or avoid each other more easily. As more research is done into the mind of kitties and what makes them tick, pet parents will be able to recognize stress and address it more effectively. Your Special Bond with Your Cat Of course, every cat is an individual, so spending time with your pet and observing his habits and traits can help you understand him. And if he’s treating you like he’d treat another feline, that’s a good sign! So there you have it: your kitty isn’t only smart, but he also regards you as part of his family. If you call your pets your furkids, you’ll be happy to know that experts believe that your kitties feel the same way and view you not only as a guardian, but also as a forever friend.

Study: Your Cat Thinks You’re Pretty Special!

Although they exhibit an aloof demeanor, new research says that cats are playing it cool. It turns out that your feline really does like people! Researchers from Oregon State and Monmouth Universities have discovered that cats, contrary to popular (dog!) opinion, do indeed like people! The study’s findings were based on experiments that tested cats’ reactions to various people and common daily occurrences. Tests show that human interaction seemed to garner the most reaction and appreciation. While you might think that your cat would walk over your dead body to get to her favorite catnip toy, researchers believe their findings prove this isn’t the case. Related: How Do Cats Show Affection? The study looked at nearly 40 cats–19 from private homes and families and 20 from animal shelters–and took away their access to food, toys, smells, and human interaction for a few hours. They reintroduced each item individually, and observed the reactions to each. While a good portion did indeed prefer food the most (37% of the cats), half of the subjects had the most favorable reaction to human interaction and affection. Related: Fur Will Fly on Animal Planet’s New Show “Cat Meets Dog“ Researchers acknowledge that cat sociality seems to exist on a spectrum, and cats are often viewed as more independent and needing less human interaction than other domestic pets. But it turns out that when given the choice between human interaction and affection or their most preferred of the other three stimuli, half chose the interaction of a human.

Panty-Stealing Pussy Prompts Hilarious Apology Letter

What do you do when a real-life cat burglar roams your ‘hood? Well, for a woman from Cardiff, England, you write hilarious apology letters and beg forgiveness! Cats have a knack for bringing their owners pieces of love in the forms of all sorts of things. Dead birds, mice, moles…those are among some of the most common victims of a cat’s desire to show affection for its owner. But one creative kitteh in Cardiff, England has decided that she’d prefer to bring her family something unique–and we’re pretty sure she’s the only cat we know who steals lingerie from the neighbors to bring back as prizes of the hunt! Related: 4 Ways You’re Annoying Your Cat Pumpkin is the three-year-old cat of Zoe Davis and her family, and Davis says that Pumpkin brings her fresh sets of lingerie daily. In fact, for Pumpkin to bring back ten pairs of undies in a week is simply no big deal. Most of the stolen articles of clothing are the same size, and apparently Pumpkin is even smart enough to match items. One week Davis said that Pumpkin brought a pair of undies one day and the matching bra a few days later, impressing the whole family! Davis says her family and friends find it hilarious, but she doesn’t believe it is good neighborly behavior for her puss! She says that Pumpkin cries in the morning to alert them to her newest booty, and Davis just doesn’t even know what to do!

Crazy Cat Maze Proves Cats Can Make Humans Do ANYthing [Video]

When you want to celebrate International Cat Day in the most hella way possible, whaddya do? Well, build a crazy cardboard cat maze, of course! Self-professed ‘Crazy Cat’ Dad Chris Poole wanted to celebrate International Cat Day (August 8) with his interwebs famous cats Cole and Marmalade and he wanted to do it in an epic way. Related: Why Do Cats Go Crazy at Night?

Our Hats Are Off to the New #CatsAsHats Fashion Trend

Baby, it’s cold outside! Keep that head cozy — a new trend pays homage to beloved Dr. Seuss with putting cats on heads as hats! Move human you’re in my way 😾 A post shared by Angus (Katie Bell) (@angustheragdoll) on Oct 22, 2017 at 2:06am PDT Just when I think I’ve seen everything…someone goes and puts a cat on their head as a hat and I’m at a loss for words. Related: Hilarious Cat Adoption Profiles Will Make You Do A Spit Take! A post shared by Benton (@wrigbt01) on Feb 10, 2015 at 1:52am PST Yep, seems like good old Dr. Seuss wasn’t too far off base when he wrote about the cat in the hat. Turns out a new trend is taking the internet over, and it’s cats as hats! A post shared by Stef Caporlingua (@scappycaps) on Sep 4, 2017 at 6:25pm PDT It’s become viral, mostly because you can’t help but laugh at the expressions on both the cat’s and its ridiculous human’s face. Believe it or not, though, some cats look oddly happy as headgear. A post shared by Sexl Smith (@sexlsmith) on Jan 29, 2017 at 6:09am PST Related: 4 Ways You’re Annoying Your Cat Some took the movement a bit out of the box, even using cats as masks ala Catman style, and it’s clear a very unique group of cat hat wearers has is happy to let the fur fly. I'm Cat Man! A post shared by @smee7 on Feb 23, 2017 at 11:53am PST A post shared by Celeste Springer (@celestespringer) on Jun 9, 2013 at 11:09am PDT

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Amazing Wiener Dog Gives Birth to a Record Breaking Puppy Litter

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What Are the Requirements for Flying with a Dog?

While traveling with your pet can be challenging, it doesn’t have to be. Even though some  airlines can be a bit finicky about their rules and regulations, you can fly with your pet in tow safely and comfortably, as long as you know their requirements and follow them to the letter.Having your choice of airlines to travel with your dog as your companion, broadens your options when it comes to travel destinations and can eliminate a lot of usual travel-related stress factors in the process. In fact, flying your pet together with you can be simple, straightforward, and hassle-free! As long as you stick to the rules, that is. So, without further ado, what are the requirements for flying with a dog? Are there any universal practices you should know or does it really depend from company to company? Here’s everything you should know before packing your bags.What Are the Requirements for Flying with a Dog?Of course, it goes without saying that you can’t just appear with your pet at the check-in gate and fly away! There are many important rules involved, mainly in order to keep your pet safe, to comply with specific airline regulations, the rules of other countries, and the comfort of other passengers as well. It is also important to remember that different airlines might have different rules. It is crucial that you contact your desired airline beforehand, checking about any special regulations that they require. Still, there are some universal criteria that any pet will have to meet in order to fly on a plane.One of the foremost requirements that will allow your pet to fly on a plane is a health certificate. This is a special document that can be issued by your veterinarian after a thorough physical examination. It guarantees that your doggo is healthy, has no diseases, and has all the required vaccinations that are up to date. And, of course, this certificate needs to be recent. They are valid for only about 30 days, so make sure to do it in time. Some airlines also require that your pet be microchipped. This is advisable for all pet owners regardless of travel or not. The  microchip allows for quick and simple identification in case your pet gets lost and also serves as a sort of doggo credential. Just make sure that all the information stored on the chip is up-to-date!

Why Does My Cat Have a Bald Spot?

Discovering a bald spot or missing fur on your cat can be both perplexing and concerning for any cat parent. A change in your cat’s coat could be nothing, but it could also be a red flag of behavioral issues or medical problems. Understanding the underlying cause is the first step to addressing the problem.In this post, we explore the mystery of cat alopecia, including possible explanations for cat hair loss, what you should do if you notice your cat has a bald spot, and how to prevent this problem from happening.Let’s get started…6 Reasons Your Cat May Have a Bald SpotThe first step to addressing your cat’s hair loss is to identify why it occurred. This will mean paying careful attention to other signs and symptoms, both physical and behavioral. Here are a few of the most common causes of significant hair loss in cats:Allergies and IrritationDoes your cat suffer from food allergies or environmental allergies? While most allergies won’t directly cause your cat’s hair to fall out, they trigger dry, itchy skin. As your cat scratches the area, trying to soothe the itch, they may damage the skin or hair follicles.Identifying the allergens can be difficult. You may wish to do allergy testing or try an elimination diet. But the good news is that once you know the trigger, eliminating it will solve the problem.OvergroomingCats are well-known for their careful attention to their grooming needs, licking themselves to keep their fur clean and shiny. However, there are some behavioral situations when a cat may start grooming excessively, causing damage to their coat or their skin, resulting in bald patches.The most common causes of overgrooming are stress and anxiety. Take a moment to reconsider your household and any recent changes that may have occurred. Did you move? Are you renovating your home? Did you add a new pet or family member to the household?Another potential behavioral explanation for overgrooming is obsessive-compulsive disorder. This may have started as stress or anxiety, or it may be genetic. OCD in cats could result from neurological conditions or other medical problems.

Husky Detects a Dangerous Gas Leak and Saves the Entire Neighborhood

Kobe, a four-year-old husky became an internet hero after saving his home and the entire neighborhood from a catastrophic gas leak. According to his owner, Chanell Bell, the canine started digging a large hole in the front yard of their Philadelphia home. At first, Bell didn’t think much of Kobe’s strange behavior. However, as the hole grew bigger, she became concerned that Kobe was trying to tell her something.“I trust his judgment because that isn’t his typical behavior and he is usually right,” said Bell, according to PEOPLE. “He has great senses and he never digs holes unless he is helping me dig; I knew something was up.”Earlier in the month, Bell had a gas leak in the house, and out of caution, she decided to check the hole Kobe dug with a gas detection device. “I had a reader already in the house to make sure there were no leaks coming from my old heater,” explained Bell. “When I saw the hole, I realized it was odd behavior for my dog. My intuition told me to check it.”Immediately the device detected gas. A potentially catastrophic amount of gas was coming from the hole Kobe dug in the yard!Bell alerted authorities right away and they informed her that the entire neighborhood should be grateful that Kobe detected the leak when he did. “We were told it could’ve caused serious health effects like respiratory issues, brain damage, and even death. They told me that something as simple as a light switch turning on could’ve caused an explosion, too.”As soon as they arrived at the address, the gas foreman and crew turned off the gas and started to work on the pipes. During the repairs, the crew discovered three other gas leaks in the neighborhood, all caused by old pipes. The crew worked for three days to repair the leaks and install new pipes. Workers told Bell that something as simple as turning on a light switch could have caused the gas to ignite and blow up the entire house. While they worked, the crew praised Kobe.“They were so impressed with Kobe and mentioned what a good dog he was,” said Bell, adding that people should always listen to their pets and their senses. The gas company said that it adds Marcaptan to the natural gas it administers to homes to produce a smell similar to rotten eggs to allow for easier leak detection. “Just like this customer, any time anyone smells a foreign odor or egg-like smell, they should immediately call,” said the utility company, in a statement. “It feels amazing to know Kobe saved our block, I am very thankful to have him,” added Bell. “I hope this spreads awareness to others about the dangers and severity of gas leaks and to pay attention to your fur babies!”  Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Are Dog Bars the New Dog Park?

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Why is My Cat Shedding in October?

The fall colours are out on full display, and temperatures are starting to dip, but for many cat parents, this time of year introduces another interesting change – their cats are starting to shed much more than usual. But if you’re suddenly noticing a trail of fur around your house, you have a few questions, including: Why is my cat shedding in October? Is it normal for a cat to shed more during the fall season? When should I be worried about my cat’s shedding? Don’t worry. We have you covered! This blog post will discuss seasonal shedding and how it may affect your cat. Plus, we have assembled a list of tips and tricks to help you deal with the increased shedding during fall, ranging from how to help your cat stay comfortable to keeping your house clean (or as clean as can be expected). Let’s dive in… Why Do Cats Shed? Whether you are a first-time cat owner experiencing shedding for the first time or a lifelong cat lover who simply hasn’t explored the reason why our cats shed – let’s talk about why this occurs. After all, isn’t losing hair a sign of illness or disease in humans? Shedding is a natural process in animals like cats where dead or damaged hair falls loose. This is essential for your cat’s skin and coat health. The amount of hair your cat sheds will depend on several factors, including the breed, age, overall health, and the time of year. That’s right, the time of year does have an impact on the shedding cycle…Is it Normal for Cats to Shed in the Fall? There are two times each year when you may notice an increase in hair collecting around your house. Commonly referred to as “shedding season,” this heavy shedding activity falls in the spring and the fall as your cat’s coat adapts to the change in temperature. The heavy winter coat is shed in the spring to make way for a lighter summer coat. Then, the reverse happens in the fall as they set themselves up for the best chance of survival during the cold of winter. Check the temperature – if it’s starting to drop and there are colder days ahead, you can expect to see the shedding activity pick up in the coming days.

Felix Cat Insurance Will Pay Your Engagement Ring – On One Condition

If you're ready to tie the knot, you should know that there’s a way to make this special occasion even more memorable – by including your furball in the proposal. Not only is it an adorable way to ask for someone’s hand in  marriage, but thanks to Felix Cat Insurance, it can also be a way to get a gorgeous ring for free! This company is launching “A Purr-fect Proposal” campaign, aiming to help one couple of cat lovers celebrate that special moment in their lives. The aim of the campaign is to cover the costs of an engagement ring and the only requirement is to include your cat in the proposal!December is truly a magical month, so it doesn’t surprise that it’s also the most popular month to get engaged – which is why Felix Cat Insurance chose this month to bring their plan to fruition. The contest is open until December 19th, and the company will choose one lucky winner whose kitty-centered proposal plan sounds the best three days after that, on December 22nd. The winner will be gifted $4,750 or have the cost of an engagement ring covered. Not only that, but they will also receive a package of cat treats, festive toys, and even elegant cat clothes for their furry helper – to wear on the special occasion, of course. "Our felines are family members and just like your closest friends and family, we want to include them in celebrating meaningful moments like this," said Jamie Maxfield, Marketing Director and Brand Expert at Felix Cat Insurance. "Planning for the future can also bring challenges, which is why we're spreading holiday cheer by easing the expense of this life milestone as you, your partner, and your furry friend embark on your new life together. Not only is Felix here to ease the expense of this core life event, but we can also be there every step of the way afterwards."Here are the contest details as laid out by the company:Prize:$4,750 to put toward an engagement ring. A curated kit of treats and surprises so your furry friend can join in on the celebration. Dates: The contest opens on November 28th, 2023 at 12:01 a.m. EST and ends at 11:59 p.m. EST on December 19, 2023. The winner will be selected on December 22, 2023. Eligibility & Rules: You must live in the United States.You must be 18+ in age. The proposal must take place within the month of December. This contest is not available in Washington or Puerto Rico. For more information on the "Purr-fect Proposal" contest, including terms and conditions, visit  FelixPurrfectProposal.com. Good luck – and congrats on the engagement to be!

Study Finds Pets Didn't Make People Happier During the Pandemic

Would you say that your pet help you feel better during the pandemic? Countless pet parents, myself included, would say they experienced less stress and anxiety during lockdown thanks to their four-legged companions. However, a new study led by researchers from Michigan State University suggests otherwise. Researchers couldn’t find a reliable association between pet ownership and well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic, even though owners claimed pets improved their lives. The pandemic was extremely stressful for everyone. The research team from Michigan State University theorized that the pandemic created ideal conditions to determine how much happiness and comfort pets actually provide to their families. The study, published in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, evaluated 767 people on three separate occasions in May 2020. The researchers used a mixed-method approach, looking at several indicators of well-being. They also asked owners in an open-ended question to think about the role of pets. Unsurprisingly, pet owners reported their pets made them happy. Owners claimed pets help them feel more positive emotions and provide companionship and affection, but also expressed worry about their pet’s well-being and reported their pets interfered with working remotely. But when researchers compared the happiness of pet owners to levels seen in non-pet owners they made a surprising discovery. Shockingly, the data showed no difference in the well-being of pet owners and non-pet owners over time. The research team explained that it did not matter what type of pet people owned, how many pets they had, or how close owners were with their pets. The personalities of the owners weren’t a factor either. “People say pets make them happy, but when we actually measure happiness that doesn’t appear to be the case,” said William Chopik, an associate professor in MSU’s Department of Psychology and co-author of the study, in a university release. “People see friends as lonely or wanting companionship, and they recommend getting a pet. But it’s unlikely to be as transformative as people think,” added Chopik. The research team also explored several other potential reasons as to why there was no difference in the happiness levels of pet owners and non-pet owners. The most likely reason might be that non-pet owners have found ways to fill their lives with activities and interests that make them as happy as owning a pet would. “Staking all of your hope on a pet making you feel better is probably unfair and maybe costly, given other things you could do in your life that could improve your happiness,”  said Chopik. Another study, involving 4,237 people, beginning at the start of the pandemic and ending in December 2021, had similar findings. Although owners grew closer to their pets, especially dogs, during the pandemic, that didn’t stave off stress.In fact, the lowest stress levels were seen in non-pet owners. When you think about it, these results kind of make sense - pet owners had an additional mouth to feed during the lockdown and had limited opportunities to take their dogs out for a walk or play session. The results of these studies are surprising, to say the least. I was positive that I was happier than my poochless friends during the lockdown, but guess that wasn’t the case. After thinking about this a bit more, I realized that maybe we shouldn’t expect so much from our four-legged companions. Yes, there are many benefits to owning a pet, and pets can make us happy, but ultimately happiness depends on ourselves. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Can Counterconditioning Help My Reactive Dog?

Caring for and managing a reactive dog can be incredibly frustrating. Your dog may be a sweet angel at home, but they suddenly evolve into a barking, growling, lunging whirlwind when out in public.Luckily, there is hope!Overcoming reactivity is a process that will not happen overnight. However, dog trainers and behaviorists have seen great success with positive reinforcement techniques like counterconditioning.This article will explore how counterconditioning works, the steps involved in the process, realistic timelines and expectations, and tips for a successful journey toward a calmer, more confident dog. Get started today!What is Counterconditioning for Dogs?Let’s start at the beginning—what exactly is counterconditioning, and why is it recommended for managing and treating reactive dogs?Counterconditioning is a behavioral modification technique that focuses on changing your dog’s emotional response to a specific stimulus.For example, some dogs feel fear and anxiety at the sight of another dog. This could be due to a lack of socialization, meaning they weren’t taught that other dogs can be friendly. It could also be a reaction to a past trauma, like having been attacked by another dog. In these situations, counterconditioning can be used to teach your dog that the sight of another dog leads to a positive experience.Why is this an effective approach for addressing reactivity? Reactivity, by definition, is an overreaction to a trigger. While this is often associated with fear or anxiety, some reactive dogs become overly excited. An overexcited dog may jump all over strangers not because they are trying to cause harm but because they are so excited to see them that they can’t control their response.If you have identified your dog’s triggers, you can use this training approach to teach them to respond in a new (and better) way.What Can Counterconditioning Be Used to Treat?Reactivity isn’t the only behavioral condition that can be treated with counterconditioning. This technique can be used to address a wide spectrum of situations in which a pet may be responding to a situation or trigger in an unwanted way.Some situations where it is commonly recommended include helping dogs overcome specific fears or phobias as well as managing or overcoming behaviors related to obsessive-compulsive disorder.Common fears that may be addressed with counterconditioning include: Fear of car ridesAnxiety when visiting the vetNoises (fireworks, thunder)Babies (especially the sound of crying)Strangers or other dogs in publicAllowing guests to enter their homePhysical triggers like cars or bicyclesDogs who dislike grooming, like brushing or having their nails trimmedIf you believe this approach may be helpful in your dog’s unique situation, we recommend speaking with a behaviorist.You can find professionals in your area by browsing the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists website list or the Animal Behavior Consultants Directory by the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior.

American Airlines Makes It Easier To Travel With Pets

They say to travel is to live, but deciding to leave a beloved pet at home can make you feel guilty - and bringing them along on an adventure can be tough on the bank account. No one truly wants to leave their four-legged best friend behind and figure out whether to hire a pet sitter or look for a boarding facility, but airlines don’t always make it easy for pet parents to travel with their fur babies.Finally, there’s some good news for pet parents and their four-legged companions! American Airlines has changed their pet policy, making it easier and more affordable for pet owners to fly with their fur babies.“On flights with American, you can bring one pet carrier as a carry-on if: You pay the carry-on pet fee; Your pet stays in the pet carrier and under the seat in front of you the entire flight,” shared American Airlines’ on their website. The company added that passengers can also bring “only one additional item on board with your pet” which can be a small personal item like a handbag or a purse, or a carry-on bag that meets the airline’s requirements and fits in the overhead bin compartment. The important thing to note is that you can only bring one with your pet carrier, not both.In the past, people who traveled with pets could only bring one small personal item abroad, which could fit under the seat. Anything bigger than that - for example, a larger carry-on bag that usually goes in the overhead bin - had to be checked, which was an additional $35. As an alternative, pet owners could transport their pets in the cargo hold if they wanted to take a bigger bag with them on the flight. Thanks to recent policy changes, people traveling with pets can now bring a pet aboard and choose whether they’ll travel with a carry-on bag or a personal item. At the same time, no changes to American Airlines' pet travel fee have been made. According to the company’s website, the fee remains fixed at $150 and applies per kennel, each way. For now, pet strollers must be checked at the ticket counter, and all checked bag fees apply. There are a few things to keep in mind before flying off into the sunset with your four-legged friend. All airlines are different. Every airline has its own policies for traveling with pets, so be sure to check the specific restrictions and fees on your flight before you book the tickets. Southwest, JetBlue, Delta, Alaska, and United are a few other airlines that allow pet travel, but each has its own travel requirements. Each airline specifies what pets can travel where. There are also limitations on the number of pets a passenger can bring abroad on different aircrafts. Only two pets in the same carrier can come aboard for American Airlines flights. Don’t forget that capacity is limited, meaning that checked pets are accepted on a first-come basis. Country-based restrictions also apply, and people traveling with pets should check and understand destination restrictions when traveling abroad.Lastly, whatever airline you decide to fly with, you have to find your pet an airline-compliant carrier. Without the right pet carrier, your fur baby won’t be able to fly on a plane with you. There is a lot to think about when traveling with a pet. But all will become worth it when you touch down and start making fun and exciting travel memories with your four-legged companion. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Guinness World Records Reviews Bobi’s 'World's Oldest Dog' Title

A Portuguese dog named Bobi made news last year when Guinness World Records crowned him as the world’s oldest dog. Bobi was 31 years and 165 days old when he died at his home last October.However, Guinness World Records has now suspended Bobi’s title after complaints made by veterinarians and professionals questioning the legitimacy of his age.Bobi, who was a purebred Rafeiro do Alentejo, was also declared the world’s oldest dog ever, breaking a nearly century-old record held by an Australian cattle dog, named Bluey, who died in 1939 at the age of 29 years and 5 months. The average life expectancy of a purebred Rafeiro do Alentejo is 12 to 14 years.A spokesperson for the Guinness World Records explained that the review into Bobi’s record is ongoing and it includes looking over the evidence again, looking for new evidence, and talking to experts and all those linked to the original application. “While our review is ongoing we have decided to temporarily pause both the record titles for oldest dog living and (oldest dog) ever just until all of our findings are in place and have been communicated,” said the spokesperson, according to CBS News.Several skeptics pointed out that Bobi’s feet appear to be of different color in photos of him as a puppy and in recent pictures of him in his old age. A Lisbon vet, Miguel Figuereido said last year that Bobi doesn’t really look like a very old dog with mobility problems and an old dog muscle mass. Additionally, an investigation by Wired discovered that Bobi had been formally registered on Portugal’s pet database in July 2022. Leonel Costa, the dog’s owner, registered Bobi as being born in 1992, but there hasn’t been any proof, other than the owner’s word. According to Portuguese law, dogs born before 2008 didn’t have to be registered until October 2020. The Portuguese database for dogs, cats, and other pets also told Wired that they weren’t contacted by Guinness World Records to verify the information. Many other veterinarians and canine experts have questioned Bobi’s true age in correspondence to the Guinness World Records. A veterinarian and council member of the Royal Colledge of Veterinary Surgeons, Danny Chambers, told the Guardian, “Not a single one of my veterinary colleagues believe Bobi was actually 31 years old.”Guinness World Records insists that the suspension is temporary while the review is ongoing.Bobi spent his whole life living with the Costa family in the village of Conqueiros, in Portugal. The pooch, who was allegedly born on May 11, 1992, escaped death in his first days of life. Bobi, along with three other puppies, was born in a woodshed belonging to the Costa family. But, because they already owned many animals, the parents decided to get rid of the newborn puppies.One puppy - Bobi - was unintentionally left behind and discovered days later. Bobi’s owner, Leonel Costa, who was eight, and his sister persuaded their parents to keep the pup, and so he remained living with the family.Leonel Costa defended Bobi’s title saying that “an elite within the veterinary world…tried to give people an idea that Bobi’s life story was not true.”Costa believes this happened because he attributed Bobi’s longevity to a varied diet of human foods, rather than pet food. He said this goes against the recommendations of many veterinarians. “Everything would be different if we had said he (Bobi) ate pet food for three decades,” said Costa, adding that they’d provided everything Guinness World Records requested to validate Bobi’s age. Bobi has never been chained up or put on a leash and used to roam the woods around the village until he got too old to move much. He spent his golden years lounging in the yard with the family cats. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

New Study Shows Surprising Effect of Pet Ownership on Seniors

You’ve probably noticed how your four-legged bestie influences your mood for the better, but did you know that your pet might be beneficial to your brain? That’s right! The latest studies show that your pet and their company could be just the thing to lower the risk of dementia in your golden years. These findings are especially important for single senior pet owners who are at risk of this troubling illness as they reveal that having a pet can make a drastic change. A recent study that involved adults over the age of 50 who lived alone revealed that those living in the company of a loved pet will have considerably less decline in their verbal fluency and verbal memory - compared to those who lived without a pet. This research was published in the  journal JAMA Network Open and was based on data taken from 7,945 people in the mentioned age group.This study, however, only reflects on people who live alone and does not involve participants who lived with other persons in the household. Still, while the results reinforce the fact that loneliness is a major risk factor for cognitive decline and dementia in old age, they also reveal something new – that the company of a pet counts as much as the company of human family members, if not more so.The early signs of cognitive decline can be fluency, verbal issues, cognition, and memory problems, and so on. But if you have the company of a pet, whom you can address and care for, can greatly reduce the feelings of loneliness and keep these cognitive issues at bay. This study and its results are very important in today’s day and age and for many Americans in particular. Recent U.S. Census Bureau insights revealed that almost 28 percent of all households in the United States were “one-person households” in 2020. This is an alarmingly large number and shows us that many people aged 50 and older will face lonely senior years. Of course, even though the results of this study show that older people can maintain their mental health through the company of a pet, the research team emphasized that more advanced studies and clinical trials will be required to fully confirm the results. Yet even so, the lack of an effective therapy that can reverse or slow cognitive decline and treat dementia means that these results are a small but very important benefit for the understanding of these issues. And, needless to say, all those who are entering their senior years and want to spend them in a healthier and more beneficial way now know that their next station should probably be a local pet shelter. Find a pet you can love and cherish - and keep your brain healthy while showering them with affection.

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