How To Create A Cat-Friendly Home

by Lisa Selvaggio

Published: September 4th, 2014

Make your home welcoming to kitties with these cat-friendly tips

Before you bring home a cat, especially a young and rambunctious one, you have to take steps to make your house a cat-friendly environment. Not only will this save you from dealing with destructive behaviors that can result in some of your favorite items being broken, but it will also result in a much happier kitty who has plenty of distractions to keep him occupied and content. And a cat-friendly haven will also make your feline companion feel safe and comfortable so he won’t be stressed or nervous.

A Room with a View

Indoor cats should have access to a great view of the outside world, where they can chatter to themselves as they get excited over birds and squirrels running about. If you have bay windows or any windows with a good-sized sill on them, allow your cat to jump right up and make himself at home. If your windowsills are not large enough for your cat to sit or lie down comfortably, you can purchase a window perch that will easily attach to your window and give your cat a cozy spot to gaze outside for hours.

Tall Hiding Places

Cats love climbing, but you may not want them jumping up onto your tallest bedroom dresser or the top of your refrigerator. To prevent these behaviors, encourage your pet to use a tall cat tree instead. Make sure you place it in an area of your home that is out of the way so that your cat can retreat there when he needs some quiet time to himself to relax. Many cat trees that are sold in pet stores today are quite elaborate, with cubbies to hide in, plenty of ledges to sit and sleep on, scratching posts built right in, and toys dangling at varying levels.

Cozy Nooks

Cats are quiet creatures who can easily become stressed when there is too much going on in the house or when there are a lot of people making a lot of noise. Therefore, make sure your home has plenty of cozy nooks for your kitty to retreat to in the event he needs to just go relax in peace for a little while. This is especially important for cats who are typically frazzled or frightened when you have friends or family over. A space behind the sofa, a corner in the bedroom, or even a small space in your home office could be the perfect spot for your cat. Place a cat bed there, making sure it is in a warm spot without any cold drafts.

A Walkway in the Sky

Some homeowners choose to really go all-out by installing catwalks near the ceiling, complete with steps that lead up to them. Cats will gingerly climb up and down the steps and then across the walkways to get an aerial view of everything that is going on beneath them. This fulfills your cat’s craving to be up high while giving him yet another private spot that he can retreat to and call his own. Just remember that not all cats like being up high. In fact, some prefer to stay close to the ground. So before you go ahead and have these elaborate catwalks installed in your home, make sure your kitty will actually make use of them.

Interior design for families with cats offers a lot of options today. There are some really interesting cat accessories you can purchase that will keep your feline happy while also looking contemporary and chic, so you certainly don’t have to sacrifice on style to keep your cat happy. Get creative and see what options you like best that fit your overall design scheme perfectly so that everything comes together beautifully and everyone is happy.

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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Understanding Asthma In Cats

This human affliction can also leave your cat short of breath – here’s what you need to know about asthma in cats Just as humans can suffer with asthma, felines can too. Knowing what the symptoms of this chronic condition are, as well as what treatments are available, will allow you to give your asthmatic kitty the best quality of life possible. Continue reading to learn more about asthma in cats so that you can pinpoint symptoms and get your pet help as soon as possible in the event he begins showing signs of the disease. What is Asthma? Asthma is also referred to as Feline Bronchial Disease. It is an inflammatory condition that affects the bronchi of felines, and the inflammation itself is what is so damaging because it causes obstruction of airflow, fluid buildup, and a thickening of the mucous glands along the airways. Related: How To Relax A Stressed Cat What Causes Asthma? The inflammation associated with asthma occurs as a result of an allergy of some kind. For example, airborne pollen is one of the common triggers, though exposure to mold and dust on a consistent basis can also lead to asthma, especially because cats spend a lot of their time very close to the ground, where these allergens can collect. Other triggers, however, can include food allergies or sensitivities to chemicals in the environment or in products that are used throughout the home. What are the Symptoms Associated with Asthma? The typical symptoms associated with asthma include difficulty breathing, coughing, wheezing, purplish or bluish gums, an unwillingness to move, or hiding behavior that is not normal for your cat. Related: How To Create A Cat-Friendly Home If your cat exhibits any of the symptoms associated with asthma, you should have him examined by a veterinarian right away. Many of these symptoms mimic those of other diseases, such as heartworm or other respiratory ailments. Therefore, a definitive diagnosis from your vet will prevent excess worry and stress while ensuring the most effective treatment options are used to bring your cat relief and prevent complications. It is also important to note that secondary infections, particularly pneumonia, occur in about 24 to 42 percent of felines suffering with asthma, so keep an eye out for new symptoms that would alert you to these secondary infections. What are the Treatment Options? Conventional veterinarians will often prescribe antihistamine and corticosteroid medicines. Bronchodilators are also prescribed. Corticosteroids are usually given by injection, by mouth, or a combination of the two. The injections themselves can be long-lasting or short-acting. However, these drugs have side effects that can occur both in the short-term and in the future, and some side effects can be severe. Therefore, you may choose to go with short-term fast-acting corticosteroids. Discuss your options with your vet, who would know what is best for your cat. A holistic vet will also consider incorporating the use of herbs and homeopathic remedies that are chosen based on your cat’s specific needs and overall constitution in order to increase the odds that they will be effective. Herbal remedies include boswellia, coltsfoot, cat’s claw, feverfew, ephedra, German chamomile, garlic, ginkgo biloba, lobelia, turmeric, and licorice. Improving your cat’s diet can also help. And other natural treatments include supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids and certain vitamins and minerals with high antioxidant content. Minimizing triggers is also a key component in helping to prevent asthma attacks if your cat has been diagnosed with this condition: Do not smoke in your home.Remove dust and make sure there isn’t any mold growing anywhere in your home.Reduce or eliminate the use of artificial fragrances, from perfumes to air fresheners and hair spray. In the event your pet is suffering with an asthma attack that he has never had before, or you are unable to use the treatment options provided by your vet to control an attack, get your pet to the vet right away. On the way to your vet’s office, keep your pet as calm as possible, placing him in a carrier while ensuring his breathing is not restricted at all. Human inhalers should never be used on your cat, but if your vet prescribed a feline-specific inhaled medication, use it right away.

Just What The Doctor Ordered: The Health Benefits Of Cats

Take two kitties and call me in the morning. Here are just of few of the health benefits of cats. Having a cat in your life can do much more than just provide you with a fun and cuddly companion; it can actually do wonders for your overall health. Science is proving that cats can have a profound effect upon the wellbeing of their owners. Here are just a few of the health benefits of cats that come from having a feline in your family. Less Stress, Depression, and Anxiety Coming home to an adorable and loving kitty is definitely a surefire way to help you eliminate some of the stress you deal with on a daily basis. Cats help you focus your mind on the present moment and relax, which can help ease your anxiety. And people who are going through difficult times will find that companionship from their kitties reduces their loneliness. Pets, in general, can also help you improve your mood by taking your mind off of your troubles and allowing you to focus your energy on nurturing other creatures, as well as watching their funny antics. Therefore, they can help individuals who suffer with depression as well. Related: 5 Big Differences Between Cats and Dogs Improved Cardiovascular Health The University of Minnesota conducted a study that actually proves your kitty is great for your cardiovascular health. You can reduce your risk of dying from heart disease by 30 percent, as well as bring your risk of having a heart attack down by 40 percent, if you own a cat. And having a kitty by your side every day can even help you lower your triglycerides and your cholesterol, so you may be able to ditch that cholesterol-lowering medication if you spend more snuggle time with your feline friend. Plus, simply petting your cat can help you naturally lower your blood pressure, thanks to its relaxing effects. Of course, all of these benefits are even more apparent if you follow a healthy diet and lifestyle that includes regular exercise. A Stronger Immune System Cats can also promote a stronger immune system by making us laugh, reducing our stress levels, and providing us with comfort and companionship, especially when we are feeling under the weather. A child who has a cat as part of his or her family from a young age may also enjoy the benefits of a stronger immune system, with a lowered risk of having to deal with pet allergies. And children who grow up with cats may also have a lowered risk of asthma as they get older. Related: How To Create A Cat-Friendly Home Social Interaction for Those with Autism In addition to helping the elderly, cats are also popular amongst individuals with autism who feel uncomfortable in social situations and have trouble expressing themselves. A French study found that mildly autistic adults and children benefitted from the hormone oxytocin, which lowers stress. Because oxytocin is released by touch, petting a cat can promote feelings of love and trust, as well as an increased ability to connect with others. In other words, simply having a cat that you can pet will help increase the amount of oxytocin that is released, and this can lead to feeling calmer and better able to socialize with others, whether you suffer with autism or any other form of social anxiety. With so many great reasons to own a cat (or a few cats), the next step is to head to your local animal shelter and find the companion you can call your own. Saving a kitty’s life will empower you and make you feel great. Plus, you will reap the many health benefits of cats who will provide you with unconditional love, while also ensuring you never feel alone even when no one else is around.

What Is The Best Cat Litter For Your Kitty?

There are many kinds of kitty litter on the market. To pick the best cat litter for you and your kitty, you need to know the different types out there. Your kitty uses the litter box multiple times a day, and the dust that accumulates on his fur and paws will inevitably be ingested when he grooms himself. Therefore, many pet parents are concerned about the safety of the litter that they use, and they want to choose the best, and purest, options for their kitties. Other pet owners are concerned about the costs of the cat litter they’ll purchase, or with how eco-friendly the product will be. To address these consumer concerns and demands, there are a variety of manufacturers producing different types, so you can choose the one that’s the best cat litter for your special kitty. Clay Litter Clay litter, in its clumping or non-clumping form, is the most popular and well known form of kitty litter. It’s known for its ability to absorb urine very well, and for forming tight clumps when using the clumping variety. Related: 5 Big Differences Between Cats and Dogs Despite its popularity, there is quite a bit of controversy surrounding the use of clay litter. While many pet parents love it, others avoid it completely. For example, because clay is strip mined, it has a detrimental effect upon the environment. And because it isn’t biodegradable, it accumulates in landfills. For pet parents who are trying to lead a “greener” lifestyle, these are good enough reasons to make the switch to a more natural, biodegradable cat litter. There are also some health concerns, for both people and their cats, when it comes to clay-based litters. Some individuals are worried that the dust may be harmful when inhaled. And sodium bentonite expands when it comes into contact with liquids, so there are concerns that a cat may encounter health problems after ingesting clumping clay litter, which can form a mass in the digestive tract. Many cat owners use clay litter without any problems, but for those who are uneasy about the potential adverse health effects, a different type of litter may be suitable. Related: Create A Cat-Friendly Home Plant-Based and Newspaper Litter As more feline guardians become concerned about the health of their kitties and the environment, popular litter manufacturers have responded by releasing a variety of plant-based options, as well as litter made from recycled newspaper. Commonly made from pine, cedar, corn, walnuts, and wheat, plant-based options provide the same clumping action as clay litter, as well as odor elimination, but you may need to try out a few different brands before finding the product that works best for you. These litters are also biodegradable, so they aren’t as detrimental to the environment as clay litters. Silica Litter Yet another modern option is silica cat litter, which is commonly referred to as crystal litter. The silica gel is highly absorbent and controls odors, making it a good alternative to clay litter. And this type of litter may also produce less dust. However, many pet parents are just as concerned about ingestion of the silica as they are about clay. Clumping, Non-Clumping, and Pellet Litter Many people prefer clumping litter over non-clumping varieties, but again, this all depends upon your preferences, as well as your cat’s preferences. Non-clumping litter is often recommended for kittens, but once your kitty is old enough to make the switch to clumping, you can choose from the many natural varieties or traditional clay options on the market. And there are also natural pellet litters that break down as moisture comes into contact with them, yet produce hardly any dust and can also reduce tracking. If you do decide to change the type of litter that you are using, give your kitty some time to adjust. Rather than making a switch from one product to another abruptly, gradually add the new litter in with the old so that your cat can become accustomed to it without being stressed to the point that he may avoid using the box altogether.

Bathroom Break: How To Toilet Train Your Cat

Don’t let your dreams of a litter box-free home get flushed – here’s how to toilet train your cat! If you are absolutely tired of dealing with cleaning your cat’s litter box every day, there is hope if you want to throw it away and never look at it again: you can toilet train your kitty to use the bathroom just like you do. While this may sound unrealistic and impossible, the truth is that many people have successfully trained their cats to stop using the litter box in favor of the toilet. And with some time, dedication, and patience, you can train your cat to do the same. Below are some instructions on getting started, but there are also a variety of products out there that are specifically designed for this purpose and can come in quite handy as well. Related: What Is The Best Cat Litter Put the Litter Box in the Bathroom The first step in the training process involves placing your cat’s litter box in the bathroom and introducing him into the room where you want him to do his business. The box should be an open, standard litter box rather than a complicated, bulky, covered one. Be sure to put the litter box right next to the toilet. After a few days, place the box a few inches off the ground with the help of a textbook, phone book, or anything else you can find that will support the box. Raise it higher and higher every few days as your cat gets accustomed to the new height. This will begin to train him to jump into the box in order to go to the bathroom, which is a drastic change from walking right into the box on ground level. Related: How To Create A Cat-Friendly Home The goal is to slowly work your way up to the point that the litter box is at the same height as your toilet. Again, work with your cat as the days go on and observe when he gets comfortable with each height change. If you rush the process, your cat will become confused and frustrated and start eliminating around the house instead. Place the Litter Box on Top of the Toilet The next step is to place the litter box right on top of the toilet itself. This will require him to jump onto the toilet seat in order to go to the bathroom. Again, follow this process slowly and make sure your cat is ready to take this step before placing the box on the toilet. Get a New Litter Box The next step involves replacing your cat’s old litter box with a disposable aluminum roasting pan. If the litter you have been using up to this point is not flushable, make the switch to one that is. Fill the roasting pan with litter and place it inside the toilet, with the seat holding it in place. Your cat should continue to jump up onto the toilet at this point, understanding that the litter box is there. Start Cutting a Hole in the Bottom of the Pan After your cat has grown accustomed to using the litter box that is inside the toilet, it is time to make a small hole in the bottom of the litter pan in order to begin exposing the water inside the toilet to your cat. This is yet another slow-moving process because you want to start with a really small hole and make it bigger as the days go on and your cat is comfortable going to the bathroom this way. As always, you need to work with your individual kitty and not force him to do something sooner than he is ready because he will get frustrated and confused and start using your home as a giant litter box instead. Eventually, there will be a hole big enough that there is hardly any litter left in the toilet and your cat will grow accustomed to the sound of the water as he goes to the bathroom. Then you can remove the pan from the toilet completely. If you reach this point, you have successfully toilet trained your kitty! Now, if you could only get him to flush the toilet…

3 Awesome Reasons For Fostering Cats

Have you ever thought of fostering cats? There are so many reasons to do it – here are our 3 favorites! Becoming a foster parent to kittens and cats in need is a really fulfilling way to help kitties prepare for their forever homes. You get to keep them comfortable, you can help them heal from injury or abuse, and you get to socialize them so they’ll love people and other pets. If you hate seeing all of the kitties who are forced to stay in lonely cages in shelters and you want to rescue them to give them a second chance before it’s too late, fostering cats is a great way to make a difference. Here’s a few of the many reasons why so many people love fostering cats, and why you should consider doing the same. Related: TNR: What is It And How Does It Help Feral Cats? 1. You’re Saving a Life! By fostering cats, you’re essentially working as part of a team to save the lives of cats and kittens that would otherwise be euthanized in shelters. And even if you’re fostering for a no-kill shelter, you’re still saving lives because you’re helping to open up space at the shelter so that even more kitties can be rescued. Foster parents are there to help organizations save kitties in desperate need of rescue, sometimes swooping in on the same day that they’re scheduled to be euthanized. They help these cats get back to a state of health, whether they’re ill or come from an abusive past and need extra loving to trust humans again. In so many ways, foster parents give these cats a second chance at life, at health, and at happiness. 2. Not Ready to Be a Cat Parent? Try Fostering Consider fostering if you aren’t ready to be a permanent cat parent. It’s a great way to see what it’s like to have a kitten or cat in your home, but you don’t have to make a long-term commitment. And if you do end up falling in love with the kitty you’re fostering, you can always adopt him to keep him forever. Related: How To Create A Cat-Friendly Home The same goes for those who aren’t financially able to keep a pet. Every shelter and rescue is different, but you may be able to foster for an organization that covers the cost of supplies you need, such as litter and cat food, as well as veterinary exams. This means that you get to take care of a kitty without having to worry about affording to be a pet parent. And if you aren’t ready to adopt a kitty because you aren’t sure what your future holds (marriage, kids, relocating, career change, etc.), fostering is a great way to have animals in your home that you can care for on a short-term basis until they’re adopted. If you’re ready to become a foster parent to cats in need, it’s a great idea to have some level of experience with felines. If you don’t, it may be best to first volunteer at an animal shelter to get to know these animals and their needs better. Be honest when applying to become a foster parent so the rescue group can properly match you with the kitties that will do best in your home until they’re adopted. 3. It’s Fun and Rewarding for the Whole Family Cats and kittens are a lot of fun to have around and can provide your entire family with hours of joy and laughter. Your kids will learn how to respect and nurture animals, and if you have other pets, they may enjoy the extra company as well. But in addition to being fun, fostering cats allows you to see the direct, positive impact that you’ll have on an animal in need. A once shy cat can turn into one that loves to snuggle and meet new people, an abused cat will learn to trust again, and a sad kitty who was abandoned by his family will feel love and companionship again. Ready to Foster? With so many rescues, foster networks, and animal shelters all over the world, you can become a foster parent whenever you’re ready. And you can be a foster parent for more than one shelter, too, if you want. A simple online search should reveal the rescues in your area so you can contact them to find out what steps you need to take to sign on and help.

Animal Shelter Receives Donations in Memory of Jon Stewart’s Dog

Comedian Jon Stewart returned to “The Daily Show” on Comedy Central in February, and viewers have been tuning in to watch him talk about current events. Stewart hosts every Monday night, serving up news in a hilarious way. But on February 26, he closed the show on a somber note, spending a few minutes talking about his dog, Dipper.Jon Stewart Remembers His Extraordinary DogStewart shared a touching story of how he met and came to adopt Dipper. He explained that, 12 or 13 years ago, his young children wanted to raise money for Animal Haven, a no-kill shelter for dogs and cats in New York City. To fundraise, his family baked cupcakes and set up an area outside of the shelter to sell them.  He went on to say that the shelter brought out a pit bull who was about 1 year old. At this point, Stewart started to break down, clearly getting emotional as he explained that the dog had been hit by a car in Brooklyn and had lost one of his legs as a result.Through tears, Stewart said his family left the shelter after raising some much-needed funds for a wonderful organization that does great work. But they also left with the very special pit bull who had stolen their hearts and who was, as Stewart described him, the best boy. Dipper even used to go to the studio with Stewart, so he met the famous people who were guests on the show.Then, Stewart shared the devastating news that Dipper had passed away just the day before. He ended with a wish for everyone to find an amazing dog they could love. And then, for the show’s “Moment of Zen,” they played an adorable video of Dipper playing in the snow.You can watch the segment here:

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What Is Pyoderma In Dogs?

The sight of an itchy dog often raises concerns among pet parents. From parasites, like fleas and ticks, to uncomfortable skin issues and irritation, the explanation is rarely a positive one. In some cases, even finding a cause is an uphill battle. One condition you may have read about or heard your veterinarian mention is pyoderma. But what is pyoderma, and what does this mean for your best friend? In this article, we will dive deep into the world of dog skin issues, uncovering not only the warning signs and possible causes of pyoderma in dogs but also the steps you can take to offer some much-needed relief from the itch and irritation. Let’s get started… What is Pyoderma? Pyoderma is a term used to refer to a bacterial skin infection, with the word literally translating to “pus (pyo) in the skin (derma).” It is one of the most common dog skin conditions. Luckily, it is also often easy to treat once it has been diagnosed. Most dogs recover fully with the proper medication. The condition is classified into one of three types based on its location in or on the skin. They include: Surface Pyoderma: infections on top of the skin’s surfaceSuperficial Pyoderma: infections in the outermost layer of the skin, including in the hair follicles (which may be referred to as superficial bacterial folliculitis)Deep Pyoderma: infections in the deeper layers of the skinThe condition itself isn’t always visible, making it sometimes difficult to spot. This is why it is so important for dog parents to familiarize themselves with the warning signs of skin irritation and seek veterinary help. They can do the tests necessary to look beyond what is visible to the naked eye. What Causes Pyoderma in Dogs? Every healthy dog has bacteria on the surface of their skin. When a dog’s skin becomes irritated for any reason, they respond by scratching at the spot. This creates openings in the layers of the skin where the bacteria can move deeper, creating the perfect environment for them to grow and thrive. There are several potential triggers for the initial irritation, including: Environmental or seasonal allergies Food allergies Flea allergy dermatitis Chronic exposure to moisture (like skin folds)Seborrhea Impaired blood flow to the skin Endocrine disorders (Hypothyroidism, Cushing’s disease) It can also start when the skin is damaged due to an injury. Even a minor injury could cause just enough of an opening into the skin’s layers to begin the cycle. Is Dog Pyoderma Contagious to Humans? As this is a bacterial infection, it isn’t a risk of transmission like an airborne virus would be. Some strains of the bacteria can occasionally lead to an infection in humans or other dogs. However, the risk is incredibly low unless you have a compromised immune system. You can minimize the risk of transmission by focusing on keeping your home clean as your dog fights the infection. This includes regularly cleaning their food and water dishes as well as any bedding your dog sleeps on regularly. If you have an open wound, keep it covered when spending time with your infected dog.

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Blue Ridge Beef Recalls Kitten and Puppy Food Due to Bacteria

Blue Ridge Beef, one of the foremost pet food companies in North Carolina, decided to recall their 2-pound kitten and puppy food because of a serious potential threat of listeria and salmonella in their kibble. The pet food in question was distributed to locations in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maryland, North Carolina, New York, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.Unfortunately, North Carolina Department of Agriculture discovered a serious issue when analyzing their product, realizing that one lot of each of the food products was positive for salmonella and listeria, on December 15th. This included kitten food lots “N24 1114-N24 1224”, of 2-lb logs of “Kitten Grind” (UPC 8 54298 00101 6), and “Kitten Mix” (UPC UPC 8 54298 00143 6). Also included was the “Puppy Mix” (UPC 8 54298 00169 6).The action was swift to pull these products from the shelves, as both listeria and salmonella can be very dangerous to pets who consume the contaminated food. It can also be harmful to humans who touch the food as well, especially pregnant women and children. Pets who get infected can suffer from vomiting, fever, bloody diarrhea, lethargy, and loss of appetite, so if you notice any of these symptoms and your pet has been eating the food that is now recalled, make sure to take them to a vet for treatment ASAP.Luckily, the Blue Ridge Beef company announced that so far it has not received any reports of illnesses that are connected to this recall of food. Likewise, the company is not facing any legal action because of the recall. Pet owners who purchased this food are encouraged to contact Blue Ridge Beef company at  blueridgebeefnc@yahoo.com for a full refund. Consumers can also get in touch with Steven Lea, from 8 am. to 5:30 pm. ET Monday-Friday at (704) 880-4500. 

What Should I Include in a Pet First Aid Kit?

As loving pet parents, we do everything possible to keep our furry companions safe and healthy. However, life is unpredictable, and accidents happen, so we must be prepared for unexpected emergencies. This includes ensuring we have a fully stocked, pet-friendly first aid kit available. In this article, we’ll discuss the essential items you should have on hand to care for your pet in those unforeseen moments. From basic cuts and scrapes to more severe injuries, you’ll be prepared to act as your pet’s first line of defense when it matters most. Can You Use a Human First Aid Kit on Dogs and Cats? Yes, sort of. Most of the items included in a human first aid kit can be used to treat your pet in the case of an emergency. You may be wondering – if they can use the same supplies, why do I need a first aid kit specifically for pets? Some items you won’t find in a human first aid kit may be necessary depending on your pet’s injury or ailment. These could address a problem that only a dog or cat could experience, or they may involve finding alternatives for human products that are unsafe for our pets, like human medications. What Human First Aid Products Can Be Used on Dogs and Cats? Most standard items in your first aid kit can be used on dogs and cats. For example, bandages, gauze pads, ice packs, and medical tape are all suitable for pets. They are the exact same items often included in both human and pet first aid kits. Tools like scissors, latex gloves, and tweezers will also be helpful when performing first aid on a pet. This means that if you currently have a standard human first aid kit at home, you are already well on your way to being prepared to take care of your pet in an emergency. To update your human first aid kit and make it suitable for pets, you will just need to add a few important items:

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.

Bella the Cat Breaks the Guinness World Record for Loudest Purr

A 14-year-old cat from Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, UK has broken the Guinness World Record for the loudest purr by a domestic cat (living). Bella produced a purr measuring 54.59 decibels. To give you a better picture, Bella’s purr was as loud as the sound of a boiling kettle and almost as loud as the sound of a washing machine.Bella’s owner, Nicole Spink, explained to Guinness World Records that her cat’s special talent comes naturally: “She purrs all day long. If there’s food around or cuddles, she always purrs.”“Also when watching TV - she likes to be loud with television. My late husband used to always moan about the sound of her purr blocking the sound of the TV in the evenings.”The Spink family has always known that there’s something special about Bella’s purr. “Friends and family always notice Bella’s loud purr, everyone comments ‘what’s that loud noise? Oh, it’s the cat’. It’s just Bella being happy!”One day, while leafing through the Guinness World Record book, Ms Spink and her daughter decided to perform a test. They downloaded a phone app that recorded and measured Bella’s purr, confirming their suspicions.An app can be a good indicator of a purr’s sound level, but a sound engineer is the only person who can measure it correctly. When the day of the official attempt came, Ms Spink was nervous that Bella wouldn’t want to purr. “She’s a stubborn little old lady and she does how she pleases. It’s very much Queen Bella’s world.”Bella’s record-breaking attempt was overseen by Dave Willson, the Official Guinness World Records adjudicator. “It’s always an exciting day when there is the potential for a new record, so we waited in anticipation to see whether Bella would be able to do it.”Mr Wilson and an independent sound engineer prepared the room in Spink’s family home to block out external noises and set up recording devices. The sound level meter used was kept at a one-meter distance from Bella, as well as a one-meter distance from the ground, following certified instructions. To beat the previous world record, Bella had to purr louder than 50 decibels. According to Mr Wilson, “the results were immediately obvious.”It seems that food might be the reason Bella purrs so loudly. When talking about the record-breaking attempt Ms. Spink said: “I fed her a bowl of Whiskas and then brought her into the room, laid her in her bed and she started purring, just like that!”As you can see, Bella is extremely motivated by food. According to her owner, Bella purrs loudly every time there’s a bowl of food in front of her. Despite her advanced age, Bella sprints to her bowl as soon as she sees a package of her food. A typical day in Bella’s life revolves around three things - food, sleep, and cuddles. Bella will wake up in my bed, she always wakes me up early and asks for her food. Then she’ll ask my kids or anyone else who comes into the house for more food. Then she will sleep, and then she’ll want more food and cuddles. Food and sleep is pretty much her life!”And that’s what you call a purrfect life!While Bella’s 54.59-decibel purr was loud enough to break the world record for a living cat, the record for the loudest purr ever belongs to two other cats - Merlin and Smokey. In 2011, a Northampton cat, Smokey, owned by Lucinda Ruth Adams, was recorded purring at a shocking noise level of 67 decibels. That’s more than 13 decibels louder than Bella’s record-breaking purr. Five years later, Smokey’s record was equated by Merlin, owned by Tracy Westwood in Devon. Smokey and Merlin are still co-holders of the record for the loudest purr by a domestic cat. 

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New Study Shows Which Dog Breeds Are Most Likely to Get Cancer

When it comes to humans, early detection is key when dealing with different types of cancer, and the same is true for canines. Naturally, a healthy diet, daily exercise, and regular veterinary checkups can all help keep your four-legged companion in tip-top condition.But, wouldn’t it be great if you knew in advance that your pooch is more predisposed to cancer? A new study published in Royal Society Open Science shows that there is a strong link between the dog’s size and their likelihood of getting cancer.Leonard Nunney, a biologist at the University of California, Riverside, and the lead author of the study wanted to understand how cancer starts and how it is initiated in different dog breeds. Nunney explained that while humans have an increased risk of developing cancer as they get older, the same isn’t true for dogs.This new study looked at dogs ranging in size from a tiny Chihuahua up to a mastiff, and a giant Great Dane. Despite the popular belief that larger dog breeds are at a higher risk of cancer, it turned out that bigger dogs are at a lower risk of developing any type of cancer simply because they tend to have shorter lifespans compared to smaller dog breeds, which typically live longer. Breeds like golden retrievers, German shepherds, and Labrador retrievers are considered large dogs and usually live up to 12 years. This study showed that smaller dog breeds, like Chihuahuas, terriers, and Pomeranians are at a higher risk for developing cancer because they tend to live longer, typically around 15 years or more. While doing their research, Nunney and his team made another discovery. They learned that certain dog breeds, regardless of their size, are more predisposed to developing certain cancers.Nunney lists terriers, specifically West Highland terriers, also known as Westies, as having a higher likelihood of developing bladder cancer. Flat-coated retrievers are prone to a rare type of cancer, called sarcoma, which is found in soft tissues and bones. In addition to these two breeds, Bernese mountain dogs are also more likely to develop cancer than other dog breeds. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, one in four dogs will, at some point in their life, develop cancer. Furthermore, almost half of dogs over the age of 10 will develop some type of cancer. But before you rush to get your dog to the vet for a full checkup, know that just because smaller breeds are more likely to develop cancer, that doesn’t mean they will. According to researchers, only a few dog breeds tend to be predisposed to cancer, as this illness is caused by genetic mutations. The researchers also discovered that while ancestry-based interbreeding reduces the breed’s life expectancy, it doesn’t increase the risk of cancer. Thanks to this new research scientists and animal experts can better understand dog breeds and how their genetics play a role in developing cancer. “Dogs are an extremely good model for understanding the genetic changes that may lead to a higher susceptibility of specific cancers,” added Nunney. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

“One-of-a-Kind” Cat With Two Noses Searches for Her Forever Home

As rescue cat parents and rescue advocates, we know firsthand that every cat has a unique story to tell. But some cats truly stand out and make their mark on the world. Nanny McPhee, a rescue cat who recently came into the care of the Cats Protection Warrington Adoption Centre. It’s not the way this sweet girl came into the shelter or her life before that has everyone talking… It’s a VERY unique physical feature – her nose, or “noses,” in her case! The sweet kitty lived in a loving home for the first four years of her life. Unfortunately, her previous owner had to make the difficult decision to contact a rescue due to health and financial reasons. When Nanny McPhee first arrived at the rescue, volunteers and rescue workers noticed a few things about the tuxedo kitty. First, she was a very gentle lady with a love for attention.“She has proven to be a gentle lady who adores a fuss and a cuddle, and we are hopeful her new-found fame will mean she will have no shortage of potential adopters,” shared shelter manager Lindsay Kerr. “She really does deserve a home where she can settle down and become the center of a loving family.” Second, they noticed she had a surprisingly large nose. It was this unique feature that led to her being named after the popular children’s character. But that signature sniffer was hiding an even bigger secret. A check-up with a local veterinarian revealed that the cat had not one but TWO noses, creating the appearance of one large snout. When asked about the discovery, senior field veterinary officer Fiona Brockbank explained that it was the first time they had seen this but that the cat’s unique appearance resulted from a congenital malformation. Other more common examples of this include cleft palates or cleft lips. These conditions can be inherited or caused by an incident during development in utero.

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.

Staff Sergeant Reunites With His Former K-9 Colleague

A retired military dog named Blek, got reunited with his former colleague Staff Sergeant Thomas Watkins, who used to be his handler at a duty station. Blek, who was named after the old English term for “black” or “inky” had quite a reputation among the handlers. Trainers who worked with the canine described him as challenging and tough to manage. But everything changed when Blek met Watkins. In an interview, Watkins told Good Morning America about his experience meeting Blek for the first time.“That was the issue that they were having,” said Watkins. “And so my kettle master pulled me in his office and was like, ‘Hey, man, I know you’re a new handler. But I feel like you’re up to this challenge.’”As the master predicted, Watkins and Blek bonded immediately.“We just connected right off the bat,” Watkins told the Good Morning America. “We truly understood each other… Another handler was out there with me, and he was like man like, ‘I just never seen this dog be so affectionate towards someone.’”Since the day they met, their relationship has grown stronger, making them suitable to carry out missions as a team at the station. “It’s such a beautiful experience, especially when you get a dog that has issues…And then you connect with that dog, and you get that dog to where they need to be. It’s such an awesome and rewarding experience,” explained Watkins. “The rest of the two and a half years that I worked [with] him from deployment to secret service missions all over the world, we had no issues whatsoever,” he added. Unfortunately, the time Blek spent with his handle ended when Watkins got transferred to another station. Blek was left behind to work with other handlers who found the task challenging. According to Carlton Isaacson, a former military dog trainer, things weren’t looking good for Blek.That’s when Project K-9 Hero got interested in Blek’s case. According to their site, this non-profit organization wants to honor military working dogs and police K-9s in retirement. The organization’s purpose is to provide assistance with medical costs, adoption, rehabilitation, food, and end of duty services to provide the best quality of life and to give these four-legged heroes the retirement they deserve. Speaking highly of the non-profit, Isaacson said the project “was a game changer” adding, “They were able to provide him everything that he needed to be safe.”Thanks to Project K-9 Hero, Watkins was able to adopt his old four-legged friend.“I’m so thankful for those guys out there that they were able to take him and hold him until I got to a place where I can truly take care of him and allow him to just be a dog on his retirement,” said Watkins.In addition to allowing him to adopt Blek, Project K-9 Hero had another surprise for Watkins - the organization will cover all of Blek’s food and veterinary care costs for the entirety of the dog’s life. Talking about his feelings about this special reunion, Watkins said: “I am overwhelmed with happiness. That dog is dear to my heart and he made me the handler and trainer that I am today…It looks like [Blek] hasn’t skipped a beat. He’s happy. He looks healthy and I am just glad to be here right now.”“I’m so thankful for that dog, and that’s why I’m excited to actually bring him home with me to live out his life.”It’s heartwarming to see these two heroes reunited and ready to face new adventures together, as a team. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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