Common Health Issues in Kittens

by Lisa Selvaggio

Published: July 28th, 2016

TopFeatures

When you first bring home a kitten, you may not know if he’s starts to get sick. Be on the lookout for these common health issues in kittens.

Bringing a new kitten into your family is exciting, but you should be aware of some of the health conditions that your furbaby may be diagnosed with. In this way, as soon as you see something is amiss, you can take action to get your pet the best treatment possible.

Upper Respiratory Infection

Also known as a URI, an upper respiratory infection can be caused by bacteria or viruses like the feline herpes virus or feline calicivirus. These are spread from one cat to another when they’re in close contact or when they sneeze on each other.

Related: How to Kitten Proof Your Home

Symptoms of upper respiratory infection in kittens include sneezing, a yellow discharge from the eyes, and a runny nose. Kittens with serious infections may also have difficulty breathing and may refuse to eat.

Caught early and treated promptly, your pet can recover, but if a kitten is only a few weeks old and gets infected, the condition could turn fatal without veterinary care. Therefore, if you notice these symptoms, take your kitten to the vet as soon as possible. An emergency visit is warranted if your pet isn’t drinking or eating or is unable to breathe.

To prevent infection, there are vaccines that protect against some of the viruses responsible for URIs.

Intestinal Worms and Parasites

In addition to external parasites, such as fleas and ear mites, there are several types of intestinal worms and parasites that can affect kittens, and all of them need to be treated promptly to avoid complications.

A kitten may become infected with whipworms, hookworms, or roundworms, which will live in the intestines, resulting in weight loss, diarrhea that can be bloody, and an inability to thrive.

Bring your kitten to the vet if you notice these symptoms or if you notice worms in the pet’s stool or vomit. Your vet will prescribe the appropriate deworming medications after testing a stool sample to determine what worms are present.

In addition to worms, kittens can also become infected with parasites like coccidia and giardia. Watch for symptoms like diarrhea, lack of appetite, dehydration, and vomiting.

Again, having the stool tested will allow your vet to determine what parasite is causing the symptoms so you can give the right medication to clear the infection as promptly as possible.

Feline Panleukopenia

Panleukopenia is also referred to as feline distemper. Even though it’s quite rare, it’s a dangerous virus that could kill a kitten because it attacks the immune system. It’s also challenging to treat, so knowing about it is important if you’re planning on bringing a kitten home.

Kittens with panleukopenia will be extremely ill, exhibiting symptoms that include lack of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea that can be bloody, fever, and dehydration. If your kitten exhibits these signs and is diagnosed with feline distemper, your vet may recommend isolating and hospitalizing her so she doesn’t transmit the virus as they attempt to get her better.

Treatment needs to be given as soon as possible, and it includes the use of antibiotics to try to prevent secondary infections, along with the administration of fluids to prevent dehydration.

The best way to prevent infection is to vaccinate your kitten.

A Few Final Tips

Remember, if you’re bringing home a kitten who’s a stray, quarantine her and practice good hygiene, especially if you have other cats already, until she has seen a vet and received a clean bill of health. On the other hand, if you’re adopting a kitten from a shelter, ask for her medical records, as she may have already been dewormed and vaccinated, and you’ll need to show your vet the records so s/he knows how to proceed.

Being aware of at least some of the conditions that can affect kittens is definitely helpful, but always talk to your vet for advice on how to provide your new furbaby with the best care.

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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What Is an Umbilical Hernia in Kittens?

A rare condition, kittens can suffer from umbilical hernias. Here’s how to recognize one in your kitty, and what you should do if it happens. Just like people, cats can develop hernias. And there are actually a few different types of hernias that can affect felines, such as umbilical hernia, inguinal hernia, diaphragmatic hernia, and hiatal hernia. Each has its own causes, symptoms, and treatments, and it’s a good idea to be familiar with these conditions so you can address them if your cat ever develops one of them. In this article, we are going to discuss umbilical hernia, in particular. This is a type of hernia that can affect kittens, so if you are planning on rescuing or fostering kittens, or if you are just planning on adding a kitten to your family, being aware of this condition can help you recognize it so your pet can get the care she needs. This condition might sound scary, but even though some kittens develop umbilical hernias, they’re typically not something that you need to worry too much about. That’s because this type of hernia is capable of resolving on its own as a kitten grows. Nevertheless, understanding what an umbilical hernia is and what it looks like will help you recognize one when you see it and get a vet involved to monitor it in case complications do occur. What Is an Umbilical Hernia? A kitten’s belly button is found just below his ribs, and when an umbilical hernia is present, there’s an opening within the muscle wall in this area of the body. Because of this opening, a protrusion of abdominal lining, fat, or organs occurs. Umbilical hernias, which are typically painless, can range in size. For example, some may be less than ¼ inch in diameter, while others can be over 1 inch in diameter. If an umbilical hernia is reducible, the protrusion could be pushed back into the abdomen. If an umbilical hernia is non-reducible, this indicates that an adhesion or obstruction has occurred. Related: The Stages of Kitten Development What Causes an Umbilical Hernia in a Kitten? When a kitten is still developing as a fetus, umbilical blood vessels are able to pass through an umbilical ring, which is the opening that’s found in the abdominal muscles, in order to provide nourishment from the mother’s body. Normally, this ring closes completely after the kitten is born, and he ends up growing without any problems. But when an umbilical hernia occurs, there’s an incomplete closure of the umbilical ring. Veterinary experts aren’t exactly sure what causes an umbilical hernia in kittens, but some experts think that it can be inherited or caused by trauma. This means that some cats may have a genetic predisposition to this type of hernia. In other words, a kitten might develop an umbilical hernia simply because it is a hereditary problem. For this reason, some experts advise against allowing cats that had umbilical hernias to breed, as they might end up passing this trait to their kittens. What Does an Umbilical Hernia in a Kitten Look Like? If a kitten has an umbilical hernia, you’ll begin to notice that there’s some soft swelling located under the skin on the belly. This typically protrudes and becomes more obvious when the kitten stands up and moves around. What Is a Complicated vs. Uncomplicated Umbilical Hernia in Cats? An umbilical hernia can be classified as uncomplicated or complicated. An uncomplicated hernia will result in soft swelling within the area of the belly button, and the swelling can range in size and might even come and go. It won’t result in other health concerns.A complicated umbilical hernia occurs when contents of the kitten’s abdominal cavity, such as a part of the intestines, pass through the opening and get entrapped. What Are the Symptoms of Umbilical Hernias in Kittens? When an umbilical hernia is classified as complicated, symptoms might include vomiting, a loss of appetite, depression, and warmth and pain within the area of the umbilical swelling. Related: Common Health Issues in Kittens How Are Umbilical Hernias Diagnosed? If you notice the signs and symptoms of an umbilical hernia in your kitten, it’s best to take her to the vet to be examined. Your veterinarian might be able to diagnose her simply based on a physical exam by looking at and feeling the swelling in the area of her belly. However, an ultrasound or X-rays might also be ordered in order to see how severe the umbilical hernia is, and to see if any of the abdominal contents have become entrapped. What Are the Treatment Options for an Umbilical Hernia? Even if you haven’t become aware of the signs of a hernia, your vet will be able to examine your kitten and check for an umbilical hernia during one of the many routine checkups that your kitten will need as she grows. Therefore, whether you’ve noticed it or not, your vet may discover the hernia and then recommend a course of action. If the umbilical hernia is small, usually under ¼ inch, it might end up closing on its own without any treatment. This will typically occur by the time your pet is about 3 or 4 months old, or it might take until the kitten is around 6 months of age. On the other hand, if the umbilical hernia doesn’t close on its own, or if it is a bigger hernia that comes with a risk of complications, your vet may recommend surgery. The surgery will correct the opening, as well as remove any fibrous tissue or scar tissue that might be present, and it will also take care of any abdominal contents that were affected to ensure your kitten will be able to heal properly. How long will you need to wait to see if an umbilical hernia will resolve on its own? Well, your vet might wait until your kitten is old enough to be neutered or spayed. If, by that point in time, the umbilical hernia is still a problem, the surgical repair might even be done at the same time as the spay/neuter procedure. This might help make the process as easy as possible on you and your pet. When tissues or a part of the intestines do get trapped and strangulated as a result of an umbilical hernia, the kitten will require emergency surgery. This is rare, but it’s important to keep an eye out for signs of complications if your kitten is diagnosed with an umbilical hernia. In uncomplicated cases that resolve on their own, and in those cases where surgical correction is necessary, the prognosis for kittens with an umbilical hernia is very good. Few cats will end up experiencing a recurrence or complications from corrective procedures. But the key is to get the right diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible. So, if you think that something is amiss, let your veterinarian know so he or she can examine your pet. Knowing About Umbilical Hernias Can Certainly Be Helpful! Now that you know a bit about umbilical hernias in kittens, you can recognize them more easily if you adopt a kitten or you work in rescuing kittens. And this means that you can give your kitty the proper treatment when it’s necessary. Just remember that it’s always best to have your pet examined by a vet to get a proper diagnosis and treatment, even when it comes to umbilical hernias.

Surrogate PitBull Gives Foster Kittens Lots of Mama Love

An adorable pit bull rescue has shown the world that love is love, helping her mom take care of tons of foster kittens as a way to honor her best feline friend. Ronda Layne said she saw a pit bull at a shelter and was told the dog was good with all people and all animals. Layne said that sounded like a fabulous dog, and when she went to her local Humane Society in 2006, she knew Zuca was different. Zuca didn’t jump around and bark incessantly, Layne said. Instead, she sat quietly and barely moved. Last week I had the great honor of being interviewed by People Magazine (online version) for a story about my wonderful dog, Zuca. If you haven’t read the story yet, there’s a link in my bio. This video demonstrates what I talk about in the story, and what makes Zuca so magical. This was taken about 5 minuets after meeting this group of kittens (Tikal, Tulum, Coba, and Itza). They had been quarantined in my bathroom for a few days, so had been smelling her, and had seen her through the puppy gate the day before, but this was their first actual interaction. I’ve never trained her to do this or even asked anything from her. She’s laying there by choice. Obviously, the kittens are also doing exactly what they want to do. 😉 A post shared by Ronda (@zucaskittens) on Mar 19, 2018 at 10:12am PDT Layne had cats in her home at the time, so she took Zuca into the cat area of the shelter to see how she’d fare. Zuca’s tail immediately began to wag and she tried to make instant friends. Layne said that’s when she knew she was the dog for her. One more video of former foster Crabcake (and his brother, Brisket), because, why not? It’s so good. A post shared by Ronda (@zucaskittens) on Mar 18, 2018 at 10:53am PDT Related: Service Dog Gets Caught Up in ‘Cats’ and Joins Cast On Stage Once Zuca was home, she fell in love with one of Layne’s two cats, Stout. Layne says that for the next seven years of Stout’s life, they were always side by side–sharing food with each other and walking together. Layne said that when Stout came down with kidney disease and had to be put down, Zuca was so fiercely protective of her buddy, she guarded her against the veterinarian. Layne said that Zuca fell into quite a depression when stout died in 2013. Zuca pulls out the big guns to win these kittens over. And by big guns, I mean wagging tail. A post shared by Ronda (@zucaskittens) on Mar 30, 2018 at 9:37am PDT So Layne decided she’d bring some kittens she volunteered to foster for back home and see how Zuca interacted. Once she brought “Monkey” in, Layne said that Zuca instantly perked up and the two became thick as thieves. Layne said that Monkey tried to nurse on Zuca, to no avail of course, and that they were instant friends who curled up together whenever they could. Previous foster Coba never did learn where the nipple was on a dog. 😳 A post shared by Ronda (@zucaskittens) on Apr 23, 2018 at 8:17am PDT That foster situation went so well that Layne said she figured she could volunteer to foster more, including an entire litter that Zuca also helps ‘rear,’ while they are getting ready for their forever homes. Layne says that in the last four years, they’ve worked together to help foster nearly 100 cats and that Zuca could not be a better surrogate mama for the kittens. While we were all in love with Magpie, she was in love with Zuca. 💗💗💗 Magpie was adopted by a family with 2 large, black dogs who both loved cats. The three of them hit it off instantly. Last I heard everyone was doing well. . . A post shared by Ronda (@zucaskittens) on Mar 8, 2018 at 5:22pm PST Layne says that she seems to be able to read each kitten like a book, and the interactions between the kittens and Zuca are priceless. She and her husband Patrick believe it is because Zuca spent several months in a crate at a shelter that she can relate to these orphans, and show them how life can be. Even at 12-years-old and with a bionic knee, Zuca allows the kittens to jump all over, bite and scratch and basically do whatever it is that kittens feel they need to do to learn and grow. Related: Common Health Issues in Kittens And the payoff? According to Layne, aside from the obvious joy and contentment, the kittens bring Zuca, she loves to clean the kitties after they’ve eaten. Ever the dog, she recognizes when little ones spill milk and food all over themselves, and she’s quite happy to give them ‘baths’ to clean it all up! For here’s one of my favorite videos of Zuca and T-Bone. These two really loved each other! A post shared by Ronda (@zucaskittens) on Feb 23, 2018 at 9:12am PST The collective, “Awwwwwww….” may commence!

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A Xmas Miracle: Shelter Empty for the First Time in Nearly 50 Years

It was a very merry Christmas for a Pennsylvania shelter whose kennels were empty for the first time in nearly 50 years. Just two weeks ago, the shelter was packed with cats and dogs. However, the staff and volunteers have been working around the clock to make sure the animals in their care got adopted into loving homes. The Adams County SPCA is overjoyed that the shelter is empty, especially during the holidays.“This is the first time in 47 years that the Adams County SPCA is empty let alone on Christmas time, it is a true miracle!” the shelter wrote on Facebook. “To say that we are beyond excited is an understatement! The staff and volunteers have worked very hard to take care of the animals in our care and to make sure they got adopted into the right home.”The organization had a busy year, taking care of 598 animals before adopting them into furever homes. The hardworking staff and volunteers also reunited 125 stay animals with their owners this year alone.Adams County SPCA kennel technician Tanya Hays said that in the last two weeks, the shelter found homes for 20 animals, either as adoptions or strays returned to their owners.“We had to get them all spayed and neutered, vaccinated, and tested for heartworms and thick-born illnesses while also processing a lot of (adoption) applications, so the staff worked really hard,” said Hays to TODAY.“It was pretty cool. It was quite a feat,” she added.The organization took to Facebook to thank their community. “Our community stepped up once again! We thank everyone for their continued support and look forward to new adventures in 2024!”Although it may seem like people are more motivated to adopt animals during the holidays, the shelter actually discourages people from giving pets as gifts because these animals are more likely to be returned to the shelter weeks later. While the staff and volunteers celebrated everything they achieved this year, they are already ready to get back to work. “We will be pulling animals from other shelters in Pennsylvania next week in hopes of relieving some of their stress,” the shelter shared. “Right now we are going to enjoy this accomplishment!”In a follow-up post, the organization shared that it has “received an overwhelming response” from different shelters across the country and also from Canada and Mexico. Members of the public have also reached out asking them to take in abandoned animals. “Even though our hearts break for them and the situation they are in we need to help the members of our community first,” the organization said. The Adams County SPCA is only taking animals from overwhelmed shelters in Pennsylvania and animals surrendered by residents within the county as well as those living in surrounding counties. “We are going to do the best we can to help as many animals and people we can.” Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Is Peanut Butter Safe for Dogs?

Ah, peanut butter –who doesn’t love a smear of this sticky butter on their toast? Whether you top it with bananas or jelly or something else altogether, spread on bread, mix in oatmeal, or add to smoothies, you likely enjoy the nutty goodness of peanut butter at least a few times a week. But can you share PB with your dog? While this tasty spread is generally safe for dogs as they have no issue eating peanuts in the form of butter, it’s the other ingredients that may be in the PB you’re eating that could harm them. This is what you should know before giving your pet peanut butter – whether as an ingredient of something else or on its own.Is Peanut Butter Safe for Dogs? To give you a short and straightforward answer, yes, peanut butter is safe for dogs when it’s made only out of peanuts as the single ingredient. However, that’s not always the case with commercially made peanut butter. To tweak its consistency, shelf life, or even modify its flavor, companies can add a variety of different ingredients to their peanut butter products, so it’s crucial to read the label before giving your pet even just a lick of peanut butter – and it wouldn't hurt to do so before eating it yourself, either. The most dangerous ingredient (for dogs) that could be added to peanut butter is  xylitol, or birch sugar, as it is sometimes labeled. This sweetener is highly toxic to dogs as even small amounts of xylitol can cause a rapid release of insulin, leading to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), seizures, and liver failure in dogs.Another thing that could be problematic about peanut butter for dogs is not a matter of a sneaky ingredient but the fact that it’s a high-fat food. If not given in moderation, peanut butter can largely contribute to obesity in dogs, and in turn, promote health issues such as  pancreatitis at worst and upset tummy at best. It is also important to note that some dogs may be allergic to peanuts, the same as is the case with us humans. If you are giving your pet peanut butter for the first time, monitor them for signs of allergic reactions, such as itching, redness, swelling, or gastrointestinal upset, and consult your veterinarian if concerns arise.Benefits of Peanut Butter for Dogs and How To Incorporate It In Your Dog’s DietIn addition to being yummy, peanut butter is also beneficial for dogs. It might be high in fat, but it is predominantly unsaturated fats, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which support skin and coat health, joint function, and immune system function in dogs. It is also a rich source of plant-based protein and will support your pet's overall health when given in moderation. So how do you ensure you don’t overdo it with PB and that your pet reap only the benefits of this nutty spread? While an excellent reward to utilize when training with positive reinforcement methods, peanut butter should be given sparingly rather than every time your pooch does a good job. Use a small amount – a teaspoon will work well for the job. Alternatively, if your pet loves the taste of peanut butter but you’re trying to maintain their weight, opting for peanut butter-flavored treats is a perfect compromise. My dogs prefer crunchy treats and are big PB fans, so one of their favorites is  American Journey Peanut Butter Recipe Grain-Free Oven Baked Crunchy Biscuit Dog Treats.

What Happens if Dogs Eat Cat Food?

A multi-pet household is always full of adventures, and even more so when you have both cats and dogs. While there are many fun aspects to sharing your life and your home with multiple pets, there are quite a few challenges, as well – such as making sure everybody’s keeping their nose in their own food bowl. We all know that dogs tend to have healthy appetites and are not picky, which means they’ll often try (and succeed) in eating cat food when given the chance.While not the  worst thing a dog can eat when sharing a home with a cat (litter and its contents seem to be irresistible to some canines), kitty kibble certainly isn’t the best type of food for your dog, either. But what happens if dogs eat cat food? Can it be harmful to them? And are cat and dog foods really that different? Here’s what you need to know.What Happens if a Dog Eats Cat Food?Let’s face it: if a dog eats cat food occasionally, it's usually not a cause for concern. The worst that can happen is an upset stomach or a bit of diarrhea. The main cause is the fact that cat food is formulated differently from dog food, containing higher levels of protein and fat, which can be harder for dogs to digest. If a dog eats cat food regularly, however, it can lead to digestive issues such as upset stomach, diarrhea, or even  pancreatitis due to the higher fat content. In other words, sneaking food from the cat’s bowl once or twice won’t be an issue – but repeated consumption most definitely will. What is more, cat food lacks certain nutrients that dogs need in their diet, such as adequate levels of vitamin E and taurine. So, while an occasional nibble might not harm your dog, it's best to prevent regular access to cat food to avoid potentially considerable health problems.Another reason why doggos should steer clear of cat food on a regular basis is weight gain. Cat food has a quite higher fat content, which can lead to weight gain in dogs. All the excess weight (which can pile up quite quickly) will lead to a lot of health issues, like diabetes or joint issues. If your pooch likes to sample cat food, they might also experience an upset stomach, resulting in vomiting or diarrhea. This is because cat food contains much more protein than the usual dog food. Higher levels of protein are harder to digest for dogs, and this results in gastrointestinal discomfort. A home remedy for an upset tummy in dogs – if it’s due to eating a bit of kitty food – could be providing  dog probiotics in combination with a bland diet for a day or two, until they’re feeling better. 

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Why Is My Dog Licking and Chewing His Paws?

You might think it’s gross, but your pooch certainly doesn’t – canines are known to lick themselves as a way of grooming. While your dog might lick their body thoroughly to keep it clean, sometimes, their self-grooming can be abnormal. If you notice that your pet is licking or even chewing their paws obsessively, it should raise concern. This type of behavior might indicate an underlying medical issue, so here’s what you need to know before you phone your vet.Is It Normal for Dogs to Lick and Chew Their Paws?While some licking of their paws after they get dirty can be perfectly normal, constant licking or chewing of the paws is certainly not usual behavior. There could be several reasons behind this, and it could indicate that your attention and even intervention are needed. Here are some of the most common reasons why dogs lick and chew their paws.Allergies:  Allergies, including food allergies, environmental allergies (such as pollen or dust mites), and contact allergies (for example, from cleaning products or lawn chemicals), can lead to itching and discomfort in dogs. Paw licking and chewing can be a response to this itching. If you suspect that an allergy might be in question, don’t hesitate to visit your vet.Skin irritation or infection: If your dog's paws are red, swollen, or have an unpleasant odor, it may indicate a  skin infection or irritation. Bacterial or fungal infections, as well as foreign objects like splinters or thorns, can lead to serious issues down the road. Again, if you notice any of the above, it’s time to visit the vet.Dry or cracked paw pads: Dry or cracked paw pads can be uncomfortable for dogs. Licking and chewing may be their way of trying to soothe the discomfort. This happens to many dogs, and can be caused by their environment, the surface on which they walk, and many other things. Luckily, you can prevent this with paw wax that will create a barrier between the pads and the walking surface, or treat existing issues with paw butter that soothes and repairs the pads. This particular  2-in-1 paw butter and wax is a favorite of mine because it is made from all-natural ingredients and heals cracked paws in no time – while simultaneously preventing future irritation and dryness. 

Vet School Aims to Dispel Misinformation About Mysterious Illness

News about a mysterious illness has been making dog parents across the country nervous as they seek out available information. While there have been reported advances made in understanding the cause of the illness, many of the details are still vague, and a lot of “data” being shared by the mainstream media seems to be contradicting. How do you know what to believe?To help clarify the sea of information, Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine has published an educational hub on their website with information about the illness, Atypical Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (aCIRDC).This hub is divided into several categories: Prevalence, Clinical Signs, Pathogenesis, Screening, Treatment, Prevention, Travel, and News. The goal is to share reliable and actionable information for pet parents that will help them make smart, knowledge-driven decisions about their pet’s health, especially as we head into a busy time of travel during the holiday season.Reported Cases of IllnessAccording to the hub, there are currently reported cases of “a chronic respiratory disease with characteristics of aCIRDC” in 16 different states, including:CaliforniaColoradoFloridaGeorgiaIdahoIllinoisIndianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsNew HampshireNevadaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandVermontWashingtonOne of the most important things to note is the wording used by LSU Vet Med. This list is based on reported respiratory illnesses that have characteristics of the mystery illness, but it does not mean that the disease itself has been confirmed. Many respiratory infections and ailments present with very similar symptoms, including Canine Influenza and Bordatella.How to Prevent Illness in Your Dog This Holiday SeasonWhile there is no guarantee that the above states pose a higher risk of aCIRDC, veterinarians and other professionals recommend that pet parents take precautions to keep their pets safe. This is especially important as many of us plan to travel and visit family for the holidays. The following recommendations (as outlined by LSU Vet Med) will help to prevent your dog(s) from getting sick from any respiratory ailment, not just aCIRDC.Ensure Vaccinations are Up to DateWe currently don’t have enough understanding of aCIRDC for a preventative vaccination, but there are vaccinations for some respiratory illnesses. Check with your veterinarian that your dog is current on all routine vaccinations.Limit Exposure (Where Possible)If possible, avoid or limit bringing your dog to areas that put them at a higher risk of contracting a respiratory illness. This includes dog parks or shelter environments. Have a conversation with boarding and training facilities where dogs socialize to better understand their preventative measures, including cleaning and sanitization efforts. You should also ask about the vaccine requirements for dogs in their care and their plan for handling animals that show signs of being ill.Isolate Dogs with Signs of IllnessIs your dog showing signs that they may be ill? If so, isolation is critical. Don’t bring a potentially sick dog to public spaces, and do your best to keep them safely isolated from any other unaffected dogs in your home.

Dog Helps Find Missing Child

Dogs can be heroes, and that’s certainly the case when it comes to the story of a very special police K9 in Auburn, Massachusetts. When a 12-year-old went missing from their home and couldn’t be found for roughly two hours, Auburn police knew that they had to work quickly, and Biza the dog played an integral role in the child’s rescue.Child Found with the Help of a Police K9 Named BizaAccording to a Facebook post by Auburn MA Police Department, information about a missing child was received around 10:30 p.m. on January 31, 2024. The child had been missing since around 8:30 p.m., when they had left their home. No one knew where the child could be, and the frigid temperatures made everyone worry even more about their safety.Because the child had last been seen in the Pakachoag Hill area, Auburn police officers, Massachusetts State Police troopers, and detectives got to work looking for them. But it would be Biza, the K9 partner of Officer Ljunggren, who would really come through and help the search end successfully that night.Following the Scent to a Missing ChildBiza picked up the child’s scent and tracked it for more than two miles. The police were able to find signs that the missing child had been in the area, so they kept up the search until they were able to find them and bring them home to their family just a short while later.This is one example of many times that Biza has helped police in Auburn succeed since she joined them in 2022 from Germany. In addition to helping find missing people, she has also helped police track down suspects.  Thanks to Biza and her ability to track the right scent that night, a child was saved from the cold and made it home safe.Here’s a quick video about this story, showcasing a few photos of beautiful Biza:

Why is My Cat Suddenly Acting Aggressive?

Cats are well-known for their independent and aloof nature. It’s part of their mysterious and majestic presence. But what do you do when your once docile companion suddenly becomes angry or aggressive?Understanding why your cat may have shown such an abrupt behavior change is important. Why? This could be a sign of much bigger trouble that demands your attention. There are many explanations for this type of change in demeanor, including physical pain or illness. The best solution to create harmony once again in your home is to get to the bottom of it!In this article, we will look at the most common reasons for a cat to suddenly exhibit aggression and what you should do to help your furry best friend.What Does Aggression Look Like in Cats?If you are a first-time cat owner or have never encountered an aggressive cat, you may wonder what aggression looks like. Our feline friends aren’t always as outwardly friendly and affectionate as their canine counterparts, but aggression refers to behaviors that go a step further. Rather than being aloof or disinterested, an aggressive cat outwardly expresses upset, anger, and frustration toward a trigger.Cat parents who seek help with an aggressive cat often refer to their cat biting or swatting, causing physical harm out of nowhere. But there are often other signs of trouble that are overlooked or unnoticed.Early signs of aggression include:Thrashing or fast twitching tailDirect stareDilated pupilsEars flattened back against the headStiff or crouched postureRaised hacklesHissing, growling, or yowlingWhen these warning signs are ignored, a cat may feel they have no choice but to react further to protect themselves from the perceived threat or trigger. It is at this moment that a cat will swat or bite. Learning to recognize the early warning signs will help you prevent the situation from escalating to the point that someone is hurt.How Do You Tell if a Cat is Playing or Being Aggressive?Some cats, especially young kittens, may play in a way that is similar to or mimics the signs of aggression. This can make it harder to identify if your cat is truly upset or simply playing around. Luckily, there are a few minor differences that can help you differentiate between the two.When a cat is being playful, they usually have their claws retracted. This means they may swat at you during play, but they aren’t scratching or causing harm with that action. The same can be said when they pounce on you – landing on you with their paws, nails retracted. If your cat is biting at your hand during play, they often have a threshold they won’t cross. They may bite hard enough that you feel some discomfort, but they aren’t trying to break the skin.There is a grey area that shouldn’t be overlooked between play and aggression, where a cat either didn’t learn where that line exists or fails to acknowledge it. This is known as play aggression, which we will touch on later.

This Special Camera Reveals How Our Pets See the World Around Them

Have you ever wondered how your pet  sees the world around them? We all know that the eyes of dogs, cats, and all other animals are not the same as ours, and they often see the world in a very different way. While all we could do is imagine and theorize up until now, thanks to a new breakthrough in technology we will be able to take a peek through the eyes of animals!Scientists have  invented a special camera that uses a unique combination of state-of-the-art hardware and software, in order to create videos and images that show us exactly how certain animals see. For example, with this latest tech, you will be able to see the vivid world of colors that are seen through the eyes of birds and bees. One of the recent demonstrations revealed how a UV-sensitive vision of a bird renders an orange sulfur butterfly - the result is more than striking, as it doesn’t look like anything related to human vision.

Scientists May Have Found a Better Way To Trim a Cat’s Nails

Trimming a cat’s nails is often a daunting affair for everyone involved. Most cats should have their nails trimmed every two to three weeks. Failing to do so leaves you and your furniture at the mercy of your kitty’s sharp claws.Specially designed to be smaller, cat nail clippers or scissors are commonly used to trim a cat’s nails, but they can be difficult to handle, especially if your cat doesn’t want to cooperate or is anxious. Additionally, there’s always a risk that you’ll end up scratched, bitten, and bleeding.This is where science can come in handy! Researchers from the University of California, Davis, are working with Sacramento SPCA to make nail trimming less stressful for cats and their owners. Jennifer Link, a Ph.D. student at the University of California, Davis, Animal Welfare Epi Lab, is working on a multistep protocol designed to desensitize the cats to handling and nail clipping. In mid-July, Link started to visit the Sacramento shelter five days a week for two hours to work on socializing rescued and surrendered cats to help them adjust to new people, situations, and environments. By the end of September, she had worked with more than 70 cats. “When people hear that I study cats, many ask if I can help them with nail trims,” said Link. According to Dan Marple, the animal welfare manager at the Sacramento Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, this research is vital to staff, donors, and volunteers because it can reduce the stress caused by nail trimming.“Any new protocols that increase the comfort and safe handling of the cats in our care will also improve their overall well-being and adoptability,” he added. Link’s research is promising because it incorporates cooperative care. This means that cats are allowed to decide how much they want to interact with the handler during the training process. Depending on their willingness to participate, the cats go through one of three scenarios with Link: a handling-only training protocol, a handling and nail-trimming protocol, or a control with no training and only a nail trim. Each interaction is recorded to be analyzed later. On the days when Link visits the shelter, the cats are removed from their cages and brought to a quiet room where Link is waiting, with a mat laid out before her. If a cat puts their front paws on the mat, they are given treats and cuddles. The idea is for cats to learn that Link interacts with them only when they put their paws on the mat. Once the cat leans this, Link proceeds with training protocols. Slowly, Link touches the cat’s legs, then the paws, and then the paws are gently squeezed. If the cat doesn’t resist, one nail is trimmed. The protocol builds on past steps and works up. When a cat goes through all the steps, they get a nail trim. If a cat doesn’t place their paws on the mat or rejects any step, Link stops the handling.“I think with cooperative care, it does seem to almost improve their trust in me,” Link explained. “They are more comfortable if we let them decide.”This research could make nail trimming at home much more comfortable for the cats and their owners. It can also decrease the number of visits to veterinary hospitals and clinics, where owners often seek help trimming their cats’ nails. The researchers still need to analyze the video sessions to finalize the protocol. And if the protocol is deemed helpful, they will share it with other shelters for more data.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Watch This Brave Cat Save Her Dog Sibling from a Coyote Attack

Who said that there is no love between cats and dogs? This touching story proves that some bonds between a cat and a dog are so strong that one would risk their life for the other! The event took place in Edmond, Oklahoma, where a tiny pooch was miraculously saved from a vicious coyote attack– by none other than a feisty cat. At first glance, Oakley, a white Havanese dog, and Binx, a black cat, seem to belong to completely different worlds. But even so, they are family. Lane Dyer, the owner of the two, explains for Oklahoma News how the attack - and the daring rescue - came to be.“I was kind of inspired by it, quite frankly,” she said. The event occurred on November 30th, when the 6-year-old Havanese dog, Oakley, was let outside to go to the bathroom. “Out of nowhere she was attacked by a coyote,” said Dyer. Soon enough, another coyote came rushing.

Firefighters Save Dog From Drowning in the Icy Waters of Lake Superior

A dog is lucky to be alive after taking a dip into Lake Superior’s frigid December waters. Minnesota Firefighters battled biting cold and eight-foot-tall waves to save the pooch who escaped from their leash and jumped into the lake’s freezing water. The Duluth Minnesota Fire Department posted on social media that several marine units were sent to rescue a dog that jumped into Lake Superior from the Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge. The pup’s owner met the rescues on the bridge and pointed out the dog struggling to stay afloat in eight-foot-plus waves in the middle of the ship canal. Crews donned ice rescue suits before entering the lake to protect them from the ice-cold water of Lake Superior. At the same time, additional rescues were sent with the department’s 14-foot inflatable boat to assist the crew in the water. The rescue team fought their way through freezing water and huge waves to find the dog, but couldn’t see him due to low light and waves. The dog’s coat was also dark in color and they kept slipping under the water, making them hard to find.Thanks to the dog owner and fire personnel who shouted directions from the pier, the firefighters managed to locate the dog and grab them by their collar. Even though they had their hands on the pup, firefighters faced several problems before bringing the dog safely to the shore. The crew tried to swim with the dog to the shore, but they struggled in high waves. The pooch was large and terrified, and rescues struggled to keep its head above water. The waves swept the firefighters and the pup under the Duluth bridge, towards the bay and away from shore. Luckily the additional firefighters arrived with an inflatable boat and pulled the dog and the rescues from freezing waters.As soon as their paws touched solid ground, the exhausted pooch was treated for hypothermia by emergency staff. To everyone’s delight, the dog’s condition improved quickly and they were able to walk on their own. According to officials, the dog was wagging their tail as they jumped into their owner’s car. The Duluth Minnesota Fire Department shared that firefighters prevented the dog’s owner from jumping into the water in an attempt to save the beloved dog themselves. The officials added that bystanders had to convince the owner not to go in after the dog and warned people against putting themselves in danger to save a pet.“The Duluth Fire Department wants to stress to the public the importance of not putting yourself into a situation you are neither trained nor equipped to handle. This will not only put you at risk but the emergency responders as well. It will also greatly limit the options we have to try and save your pet as all efforts will now be directed at saving you,” Duluth Fire Department officials said.“We have learned in the fire service that if we don’t respond to help in these situations that bystanders and owners likely will take action on their own,” they added. “Without the proper training and equipment, this most often results in the firefighters now responding to a call for a person in harm’s way.”“Given the waves and temperature conditions in the canal last night, anyone entering the water without the proper training and equipment would most likely have ended in tragedy,” fire officials added. Luckily for all that wasn’t the case! Thanks to the brave firefighters the pooch and their owner are safe and can enjoy each other’s company for many years to come.  Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Vitamin B12 Deficiency in Cats: The Basics

Like humans, cats can develop a vitamin B12 deficiency. This water-soluble vitamin is needed for a variety of functions, affecting everything from their digestion to cognitive function, so it’s important to address a deficiency in your pet.Here’s some information on the symptoms and causes of vitamin B12 deficiency, along with what you can do to address it.

A Pennsylvania Dog Shocked Its Owners After Eating $4000 in Cash

A Pittsburg couple was shocked to discover that their dog Cecil decided to have the most expensive snack of his life, after wolfing down $4,000 in cash. According to Cecil’s owners, Clayton and Carrie Law, the seven-year-old goldendoodle is a well-behaved boy who has never really done anything bad before. The couple had withdrawn cash to do a home improvement project, but Cecil had other plans for the envelope full of money. Less than 30 minutes later, Cecil was caught devouring thousands of dollars. “I walked back into the room and then all this cash was on the ground. He’s just like this, standing there, and I’m like oh my gosh, he ate some of this money and was in shock. I yelled to Carrie ‘He ate the money, he ate the $4,000,’” said Clayton Law to CBS News. After the initial shock, the couple discovered that Cecil ate a lot of the bills, but that some were still on the floor, albeit torn up and chewed into pieces. Carrie and Clayton describe their pooch as laid back, weird, funny, and almost human-like, and say that he is typically more of a snuggly couch potato. “He doesn’t do many dog things, he doesn’t chew furniture or clothing, that’s why we were extra shocked when he decided to do this,” said Clayton Law. “He has never in his life tried to get anything from the counter, even coffee table. We could leave dinner and go to the kitchen and grab wine, and he would not touch the food, and he just doesn’t care. He just took this opportunity and ran with it,” said Carrie Law. Once the initial shock passed, the couple contacted their vet to see if the dog needed any treatment. Given the goldendoodle’s size, there was no risk of bowel obstruction and he only needed to be monitored at home. At first, Cecil seemed fine, but in the middle of the night, the Laws were awoken by the sound every dog owner knows - the retching of their dog about to vomit. “When you hear that, you immediately just react, so I jumped out of bed and just made sure that he didn’t throw up anywhere,” said Clayton. “And then I went to pick it up… and I realized there’s a lot of like half eaten and $100 bills and $50 bills here.”That night marked the start of the Law’s unfortunate mission of sifting through their dog’s vomit and poop in an attempt to recover some of their money. Luckily, the couple was able to piece together most of the bills after carefully washing and sorting all the pieces back together. “There we are at the utility sink washing this shitty money, yelling ‘Yay! Yes! We got one!’ It smelled so bad,” Carries confessed. After piecing together as many bills as they could salvage, the couple managed to recoup $3,550. According to Carrie, the bank was really nice about it and told them that these things happen all the time. “They said it actually happens quite a bit because money just picks up so many scents, especially if it’s used in the food industry. I guess dogs pick up on that - they have such a good sense of smell - and something about it just drove him crazy.”Almost a month after the incident, Cecil is doing fine and is still a good boy. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How Much Playtime Does My Cat Need?

Sure, cats tend to spend a lot of their day seemingly lazing about, basking in the sun, meticulously cleaning themselves, and snoozing away. However, that doesn’t mean that cats are not active animals that need daily exercise – they have an instinct to hunt, explore, and engage in different activities that stimulate their minds and bodies. Without adequate mental and physical stimulation, cats can become bored, stressed, and even develop behavioral issues. This is why playtime is not “just” a matter of playing for felines. It meets their most basic needs and it's an essential component of their overall well-being.What Are the Benefits of Playtime for Cats?Engaging your cat in interactive play stimulates their cognitive abilities, keeping their minds sharp and active. Activities like chasing toys, solving puzzles, or hunting for treats mimic their natural hunting instincts, providing mental enrichment. Enrichment is crucial to prevent destructive behaviors, aggression, and other behavioral issues that stem from boredom and lack of mental stimulation. In addition to keeping your kitty’s mind sharp, playtime will keep them fit as a fiddle and in their top form. Regular play sessions help cats balance extra energy, maintain a healthy weight, and prevent obesity-related health issues. It also promotes muscle tone, flexibility, and overall physical fitness, reducing the risk of joint problems as they age.Last but not least, interactive play presents a unique bonding opportunity. Playing together with your cat will strengthen your relationship, fostering trust and affection. It's a chance to spend quality time together and will provide your cat with a sense of security and happiness.How Much Playtime Does My Cat Need?The importance of your cat having regular playtime is indisputable, but how much playtime do they need? Well, as it usually goes with these things, the answer will largely depend on your pet’s specific traits, such as their age, breed, and health status. However, for most cats, that “magic” number ends up being between 20 to 30 minutes of playtime each day. This could be your starting point to determine the right amount of play for your pet, just tailor it to their needs – for instance, younger cats and kittens will need longer and more frequent play sessions to burn off excess energy and engage their curious minds. How To Make Playtime Engaging for Your CatAs intelligent and sometimes finicky animals, cats can be a bit hard to please. A new toy might bore them in a matter of hours, or they might prefer scratching your couch rather than the new cat tree you bought them – but if you rely on the following tricks, it’s much likelier that your kitty will enjoy playtime.#1 Rotate ToysKeep your cat's interest piqued by rotating their toys regularly. Introduce new toys periodically to prevent boredom and stimulate their curiosity, but don’t overdo it – bringing home new toys too often will ensure they get bored of each one too quickly. #2 Variety is KeyExperiment with different types of toys, such as wand toys, laser pointers, puzzle feeders, and interactive play circuits. Cats have unique preferences, so observe what activities your cat enjoys most and tailor playtime accordingly. Usually, a safe bet is going for a catnip-filled toy such as the well-loved  Yeowww! Catnip Yellow Banana Cat Toy. Popular for its shape that makes it perfect for cats to grab onto and forcefully scratch with all fours, this toy will keep your kitty engaged thanks to the organic catnip stuffing that fills this banana-shaped toy to the brim.

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