How To Understand Cat Body Language

by Lisa Selvaggio

Published: January 8th, 2015

What’s your kitty trying to tell you? Here’s how to pick up on cat body language.

Cats can definitely be hard to read because, unlike dogs, they don’t give off the same physical and vocal clues to let you know what they’re thinking. Instead, when it comes to deciphering what’s going on in the feline mind, you have to really analyze cat body language and vocalizations closely. Below are just a few starting points to understanding cats and what they’re trying to tell you, but keep in mind that every cat is an individual and really getting to know your furry friend will be the best way to comprehend her needs.

Mood: Relaxed

If your cat is in a relaxed mood, her whiskers will typically be forward, both of her ears will be perked up and facing forward, and she may have her paws tucked into her. Other cat body language signs of being completely at ease and relaxed include giving you a soft blink (you may have seen Jackson Galaxy use this tactic on the television series, My Cat from Hell), kneading, rubbing her head on you, or simply lying or sitting in a relaxed posture rather than being ready to dart off or attack. In terms of vocalizations, your cat will probably give an adorably inquisitive sounding “meow,” or she may be purring.

Mood: Nervous and Unsure

If your cat is a little nervous or unsure of the current situation, she’ll probably have one ear up and one ear facing backward. She may also be licking her lips, or she may end up stiffening her body with her ears facing up. Your cat may choose to look away rather than directly at you, and she may retreat away from you, hissing, yowling, or giving a “meow” that sounds uneasy.

Mood: Frightened

A fearful cat will typically give you a wide-eyed stare. The pupils may be very dilated or they may be constricted; hence, the importance of observing more than the eyes when analyzing a cat’s body language. The ears will be pressed down and the whiskers will be back. Your cat may also get ready to strike by holding one of her front paws up, so take care to avoid being bitten or scratched. Keep in mind that a cat who is afraid will attack to defend herself, even if she isn’t typically aggressive. Other signs that a cat has been startled include an arched back, a fat tail, and fur standing on end along the spine.

Mood: Angry

An angry cat is a cat who is ready to attack, so care needs to be taken when handling an irate feline. The pupils will typically be constricted, and your cat will be giving you a hard stare to let you know she means business. Also, you’ll note that the body is ready for action, perhaps with a paw up and ready to strike. The tail will be stiff and wagging aggressively to let you know she’s agitated, even if the rest of the body appears to be relaxed, further proving how difficult it can be to decipher what a cat is really feeling. But growling and hissing are surefire signs that your cat is very mad or annoyed.

Understanding cats can be difficult at first because they don’t wag their tails with delight, stick out their tongues to lick you and smile, or exhibit the other typical signs associated with dogs who are content to see you. Therefore, you should proceed with caution when meeting a new cat who doesn’t readily exhibit the signs of being relaxed. Once you learn how to read cat body language, as well as the vocalizations of felines, it will be much easier to gauge how approachable a kitty really is.

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 Does a Cat’s Arched Back Mean?

We’re not talking about the popular yoga position. What does a cat’s arched back mean? Sometimes, it can be hard to figure out what your cat is trying to tell you or what she’s feeling. But these amazing little creatures say quite a bit through their body language. So, by getting to know more about feline body language, you might be able to understand your kitty better, and that can help you better respond to her needs as well. As you start to look at your cat’s movements every day, you’re bound to notice that there are a few that she repeats often. And one of those movements is the arching of her back. You’ve seen photos of cats arching their backs, and you’ve probably seen plenty of drawings of cats with their backs arched too. But even if you’ve seen this posture a lot, you might not know what it means. What is a cat thinking and feeling when she arches her back? And how should you behave towards a cat who is arching her back? Well, there are a few different emotions that could cause this classic feline stance, and the reason for this posture can help you figure out what you need to do to help your cat feel at ease. To help you out in this area, we cover a few of the main reasons why cats arch their back, and you can read about them below. It Might Be Fright If your kitty’s feeling threatened, she might arch her spine. In this case, her fur will likely also be sticking up, to the point that her tail will look puffed. Between the arched back and the fur sticking up, you can see that this is a cat’s attempt at looking bigger and tougher. There might even be a sideways stance, or your kitty might start growling or hissing. The goal is to make herself look scary enough to avoid a fight, while also letting her threat know that she’s ready to defend herself if necessary. Related: How To Understand Cat Body Language What should you do if your cat is arching her back because she’s scared and defensive? It’s probably best to keep your distance until she calms down. Her body language is asking for space, so give your kitty some time to realize there isn’t anything to be afraid of after all. It might be that something harmless spooked her and she got into this defensive posture right away, so it’s just a matter of reassuring her that everything is fine. Or, if you live in a multi-cat household, she might feel the need to show off her stature if she isn’t getting along with one of your other kitties. If your cat is frightened or stressed often, it’s best to take steps to help her feel confident and relaxed in her environment. Try to figure out what’s causing her to feel afraid or uneasy, and then aim to remove those triggers. And if it’s a matter of your kitties not getting along, there are some strategies you can implement to help everyone settle down and feel comfortable around each other. It Might Be Playfulness An arched back doesn’t always mean that a cat is fearful or defensive. When kittens play, they sometimes arch their backs, and they might even hop around at the same time. They might do this when playing with each other, or they may even behave this way towards a toy or the person that they’re playing with. It’s entertaining, for sure, and this is their way of learning and growing up to be confident cats. And you might notice the same behavior in adult cats too, whether they are playing with you, a favorite toy, or another kitty or pet. If a cat looks happy and isn’t displaying other signs of aggression, like hissing or showing teeth, you can probably assume that the arched back is just related to playing, so you won’t need to make it a point to keep your distance. You might even be able to engage in the play session so your pet can practice defending herself. Grab a toy that she loves attacking and get some fun interaction with your furry friend so she can unleash her inner predator and get some exercise. Remember, when your cat arches her back, it’s a matter of seeing what’s going on around your pet, as well as what is in the environment. That simple observation can help you figure out if her arched back is really the result of playfulness or not. It’s Also a Great Stretch Another thing that’s pretty obvious about cats is that they love to stretch. Well, arching the back serves as an effective stretch that helps cats keep their bodies nice and flexible. After taking a long nap, your cat will probably get up and stretch her body out to loosen it up again, and arching her back may be part of her routine. You might even decide to place some scratching posts strategically in the area where your cat likes to nap so she can enjoy yet another stretch that way too. When your cat arches her back just to stretch, you’ll notice that she’s completely at ease, so there aren’t any signs of aggression or defensiveness. Of course, you won’t need to keep your distance, and your kitty might even ask to be petted or fed. Arched Back: One of Many Ways Cats Communicate Through Body Language Cats say a lot through their body language, so if kitties are a part of your family, it’s a great idea to get to know what they’ll typically look like when they’re angry, scared, playful, relaxed, happy, etc. Taking the time to learn about your cat in this way can help you make sure you’re doing everything you can to make her feel content. One thing to keep in mind about feline body language is that it isn’t always super easy to decipher what cats are thinking. Often, it’s subtle, like the position of their ears and whiskers, while other times, it’s more obvious, like an arched back. So, the next time your kitty arches her back, you may be able to figure out what she’s feeling, and you’ll know how to proceed.

Netflix Employee Cats Can’t Even With Stranger Things’ ‘That Mom

Netflix has released a Stranger Things reaction video of employees’ cats watching Dustin’s family cat get eaten by a demogorgon. Spoiler alert: Dustin’s family cat Mews in Stranger Things gets eaten in Season 2, and it isn’t pretty. Stranger Things is the must-show to follow these days, and fans were on the edge of their seats as Dustin learned his pal Dart was a nasty, creepy, slimy and HUNGRY creature who was looking for love (and food) in all the wrong places. Related: How To Understand Cat Body Language Well, the wrong place for Dustin’s cat Mews, that is. Dart gobbled Mews up in a New York Minute and the interwebs went wild discussing their disgust. But not as much as they are now, in response to a brief video Netflix put together, showing the reactions of Netflix employees’ cats’ reactions to their fellow furry feline in arms getting all torn up in front of their very eyes. As you’d guess, the cats were mortified at the thought, much less the actual viewing, and we’re not sure which is worse–Dart eating Mews or those poor kittehs running after being made to watch Dart eating Mews. Because let me tell you…they were not impressed with the outcome at all. At all. Related: Focused Cats Get Scared Out Of At Least 1 Life By Curious Dog [Video] See for yourself!

What Does It Mean When A Cat Wags Its Tail?

Happy? Angry? Upset? You may be reading the signs all wrong. What does it mean when a cat wags its tail? Just like dogs, cats use their tails to communicate with fellow felines and their human companions. But it can be difficult to interpret what a cat’s tail position signifies. For example, does a wag indicate a happy or angry cat? What does it mean when a cat wags its tail – is there a way to read this “tail language”? If you’re interested in learning more about your cat’s behavior, here are a few of the messages your kitty is sending you by moving his tail in various ways. Related: How To Understand Cat Body Language Tail Thumping May Be a Sign of Annoyance When a cat wags his tail, it might signify that he isn’t enjoying the current situation. The tail wagging may be a warning sign to let you know that your kitty’s patience is running low. Tail thumping, in particular, could be a sign to back off. So if you’re petting your cat and his tail begins thumping steadily, he might be letting you know that he doesn’t really want to be petted much longer. Gauge his expression and the rest of his body, including his ears, to determine if he’s annoyed or not. Even though cats are really loving and affectionate, they also have limits, so too much attention could cause your kitty some stress. It’s probably a good idea to stop interacting with your cat when he begins showing signs of being stressed, one of which is tail thumping. Related: Are You Petting Your Cat Wrong? Tail Flicking Could Indicate Anger If your cat is holding his tail in a lowered position but it’s extending rigidly away from the body and flicking side to side, this could be a warning sign that your cat may become aggressive because he isn’t happy. You may have noticed this type of tail wagging while at the vet’s office, as some cats will flick their tails on the exam table to let everyone know that they want to go home. Contrast this with a cat who’s at ease and observing his environment. In that case, his tail might still be lowered, but it will be more relaxed and move with less rigidity and force from side to side. An Upright Tail Could Mean Several Things If your kitty is holding his tail in a vertical, upright position, he may be in a playful state of mind. Motion from side to side will usually constitute a greeting in this case because the pet is seeking interaction. But if the tail is upright and quivering, and your kitty has backed up against a piece of furniture or a wall, s/he might be spraying to mark territory. However, cats will also make this motion without spraying while they’re trying to get your attention, or they might simply be pretending to spray in order to claim ownership. And if the tail is upright but in a concave position, your kitty may be behaving defensively and may become defensively aggressive. In other words, he doesn’t really want any interaction. A Tail Between the Legs or a Puffed Tail Indicates Fearfulness Cats, like dogs, will exhibit fear or submission by tucking their tails between their legs. If your kitty is frightened and is exhibiting this lack of tail wagging, it’s best to reduce or eliminate whatever stimulus is causing him stress and make an effort to comfort him and calm him down. Also, if your cat becomes frightened, his tail may puff out and stand up straight while his back arches, and it will take a couple of minutes for it to go back to normal once the stressor is gone. Recognize a Happy Tail If your cat’s tail is held high in a relaxed manner, with a little bit of a wagging motion going on at the end of the tail, this means that your kitty is content, ready for attention, and playful. This is different from a tail that twitches while your kitty is on the hunt, anticipating getting his prey or getting annoyed that he can’t reach the delicious looking birds outside the window. Consider the Rest of the Body Even though your cat’s tail position and movement can tell you quite a bit about his current state of mind, remember that it isn’t the only way to assess your pet’s emotions. Take a look at his eyes, ears, and overall posture to get a full picture of what he’s trying to tell you so that you can properly interpret feline body language. Knowing your individual cat’s behavior is the best way to assess what his tail wagging means.

6 Bizarre Ways Our Dogs Talk to Us

Will dogs ever learn how to speak human? Until they do, we need to be able to interpret dog. Here are some of the strange ways the dogs let us know what they’re talking about. An experienced dog owner will tell you that they can tell what their dog is thinking just by looking into his eyes. It is true that dogs communicate with their owners, but not always in the ways you might expect. In this article you will learn about the many different methods dogs use to communicate with their owners and what they mean. Related: The Basics About Dog Body Language Understanding Dog Body Language Body language plays a key role in communication between dogs and other dogs as well as between dogs and humans. You can tell a lot about the way your dog is feeling just by looking at him. You can tell whether your dog is frightened, for example, or when he is excited. Your dog’s eyes will be wide and bright when he is happy or excited but his pupils may dilate when he is afraid. When your dog is excited and happy to see you, he might pull back his lips in a smile – if your dog’s lips curl back when he is facing another dog, however, this is more likely an indication of fear or aggression. You can also tell what your dog is thinking by watching his tail – it will wag gently from side to side if he feels happy but might be tucked under his legs if he is frightened. Related: How To Understand Cat Body Language How Dogs Communicate with Humans Your dog communicates with you in a variety of ways, though you may not always realize that he is speaking to you. Below you will find a brief explanation of some of the most common ways that dogs communicate with their owners. Face Licking: One of the most common behaviors dogs show affection for their owners by licking their hands and faces. This behavior is most commonly exhibited by puppies, but some dogs carry it into adulthood.Head Turning: When you approach your dog, does he look at you or turn his head away? When dogs approach each other, they typically do so in a roundabout way so the other dog will not feel threatened – they approach in an arc (not a straight line) and avoid eye contact. If your dog turns his head away from you it may be because he is overwhelmed or uncertain of your intentions. To help your dog understand that you don’t intend him any harm you can offer back a head turn of your own or yawn and sigh.Yawning: Dogs yawn when they are tired just like humans but yawning can have a second meaning as well. In many cases, yawning is an indication that your dog is nervous or uncertain – licking the lips is another sign of nervousness.Whale Eye: When a dog shows the whites of his eyes it is sometimes referred to as “whale eye” or half-moon eye. When a dog exhibits this behavior it is often a sign of nervousness – if your dog exhibits this behavior in response to something you are doing, you may need to back off or reassure him.Crotch Sniffing: It can be embarrassing when your dog trots up to your house guest and sticks his nose directly in their crotch. This is a natural behavior for a dog and a method he uses to seek out information – your body produces pheromones which your dog uses to identify your sex, age, health and mood.Whining: While dogs can whine for different reasons, one of the most common reasons is that they want your attention. If your dog doesn’t normally whine, a sudden increase in whining could be his way of telling you that something is wrong. In other cases, whining may be an excited greeting or a sign of anxiety. Dogs communicate with each other and with their owners in a variety of ways, many of which humans do not understand. If you take the time to really observe your dog and to evaluate his behavior, you might be able to see what he is trying to tell you.

Learn What Your Pet is Trying to Tell You With This Online Course

Your pet has something they want to tell you. The good news? There is an online course that’ll teach you to what they’re trying to say. What if I told you that you could read your cat or dog’s mind? Well, you can’t (at least, not yet), but what you can do is understand what they’re trying to say to you through their behavior and nonverbal communication. An online course from The University of Edinburgh, titled “The Truth About Cats and Dogs,” helps you walk a mile in your furry friend’s paws. Starting with utilizing scientific findings to understand your pet’s view of the world, to deciphering all the little things your pet does, this course is aimed at pet parents who want to finally find out what’s going on in their furball’s head. Related: The Basics About Dog Body Language Exploring the core of human-animal relationship, The Truth About Cats and Dogs covers every aspect of our companionship and helps you learn what is the best possible care for your pet and how to provide it. Sometimes, we make mistakes in our attitude and communication with pets, without even realizing it. Once you master the techniques of non-verbal communication with canines and felines, you won’t be wondering what it means when your cat blinks at you or your pooch scoots on their butt. Apart from learning about the hidden meaning behind your pet’s behavior, body language, facial expressions, and their many quirks, you’ll get to find out what you can do to improve the life of your four-legged best friend. The course is based on scientifically validated methods and is taught by a group of animal experts that have dedicated years to studying behavior and welfare of pets. Related: How To Understand Cat Body Language Until scientists come up with a futuristic device that will help you translate woofs and meows into words, this is the best possible alternative. This online course will teach you about the intricacies of animal behavior and communication, and provide invaluable insight into what’s needed to give your furball the life they deserve. Interested in getting to the bottom of why your dog barks at the mailman? Sign up for The Truth About Cats and Dogs course at Coursera.

How Much Sleep Do Dogs Need?

Sleep allows all big and little creatures to rest, regenerate, grow, and gain strength for further milestones in life. Dogs, too, need to have enough  sleep to thrive – both during the day and through the night. But some doggos love to snooze more and others, and then there are those who won’t sleep that much at all. So what is the bottom line? How much sleep do dogs need exactly? While there can’t be a general, straightforward answer (after all, not all dogs are identical), there are some general rules and guidelines to follow. How Much Sleep Do Dogs Need Daily?The amount of sleep a dog needs can vary depending on factors such as their age, breed, and activity level. Generally, dogs sleep a significant portion of the day, and their sleep patterns can be quite different from humans. Here's a rough guideline for how much sleep dogs typically need on a daily basis – based on their age, lifestyle, and so on.Puppies, naturally, need a lot of sleep, usually around 18 to 20 hours a day. They have bursts of energy and playfulness, which are followed by periods of deep sleep. Puppies are still growing, and sleep is essential for their development.Adult dogs, on the other hand, are not such sleepy heads. Still, they will sleep more often than not. Most adult dogs sleep around 12 to 14 hours a day, although this can vary. Larger breeds tend to sleep more than smaller breeds. Active and working dogs, such as herding or hunting breeds, may require more sleep to recover from their daily activities. There are also seniors, who get tired more quickly and need plenty of rest during the daytime. Older dogs may sleep more than younger adults, often in the range of 14 to 16 hours a day. Senior dogs tend to be less active and love to snooze whenever there’s a chance. It's important to note that individual dogs can have different sleep needs. Some dogs may sleep more or less than the average, and this can be influenced by their overall health and well-being. It's also influenced by their daily routine, exercise, and mental stimulation. Then again, some doggos are straight-out lazy – they love to snooze, hate to jump around and exercise, and snore as much as they want! This is not something you should worry about unless it comes about suddenly. That’s just how some dogs are. 

Human-Cat Amputee Duo Teams Up To Help Others Through Animal Therapy

Juanita Mengel from Amanda, Ohio, and her five-year-old dilute tortoiseshell cat Lola-Pearl, make a unique therapy team. The 67-year-old Mengel is missing a leg, and her fluffy feline is missing a left hind leg. This special duo is one of an estimated 200 therapy cat teams registered in the US through Pet Partners. This nonprofit organization puts together owners and their pets as volunteer teams. They aim to provide animal-assisted therapy in hospitals, nursing homes, and schools. “A therapy animal is an animal who’s been assessed based on their ability to meet new people and not just tolerate the interaction but actively enjoy it,” said Taylor Chastain Griffin, the national director of animal-assisted interventions advancement at Pet Partners. This organization registered nine different species of animals as therapy animals, including dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, rats, birds, horses, mini pigs, alpacas, and lamas. Therapy cats are less common than therapy dogs, and people are often surprised to see cats in this role. However, Griffin studies the impact of therapy cats and emphasizes the importance of cats in therapy teams. There’s a lot of research on other therapy animals, especially dogs, so there is often a ‘shock factor’ associated with therapy cats because many people don’t know these felines exist. “They go into a setting and people are like ‘Whoa, there’s a cat on a leash. What’s happening?’” said Griffin. According to her, cats inspire people to connect to them in a way that’s not seen with other kinds of therapy animals. Juanita Mengel knew that her cat Lola-Pear would be an excellent therapy animal a month after she adopted her. The feline’s therapeutic potential became clear after Mengel took her to an amputee conference. “She was so good with people I just knew she would be a good therapy cat,” said Mengel. “People really were attracted to her, too.”During a recent limb loss support group, Mengel pushed Lola-Pearl around in a cat stroller labeled “Therapy Cat’, so participants could pet the cat as she woke from a nap. When she wasn’t sitting in a stroller, Lola-Pearl could be found brushing against participants’ legs or cuddling in their laps, bringing a smile to the face of every person she decided was worthy of her company. “She’s very intuitive of people,” said Mengel.Although Lola-Pearl is very special, she isn’t the only cat Mengel owns. Mengel, who lost her leg after years of surgeries following a near-fatal car accident, is a mom to seven cats, most of whom have disabilities. “They find you, you don’t find them,” she added.Lola-Pearl was only a few weeks old when she was found with her back legs completely twisted together. The kitten was unable to walk and was brought to Mengel’s friend at a shelter in Missouri. Unfortunately, the vets there couldn’t help the feline. The shelter located a specialist in Iowa who was able to splint Lola-Pearl’s legs in order to save them. However, it was clear that the left hind leg was beyond saving and the vets decided to amputate. Mengel adopted Lola-Pearl after she recovered from the surgery and they formed the unique therapy team. After everything Mengel has been through, she is extremely grateful for Lola-Pearl and appreciates all the good work they do together. “It’s a really rewarding experience,” she said. “I get just as much out of it as the people that I visit.” Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Is Your Cat Itchy? Causes and Treatments for Itching in Cats

Itching, or pruritis, in cats has various causes, so it’s a symptom of multiple problems. Sure, a cat will have an itch they need to scratch every now and then, just like people do. But if you see your cat scratching more than usual, or they’re scratching, licking, or biting themselves so much that they’re losing fur and causing cuts and scabs on their skin, there may be an underlying issue that should be addressed.Whether your cat is scratching at one area or they’re itchy all over, don’t ignore this problem. Read on to learn about some of the causes of itchiness in cats, along with some of the things you can do to provide relief. Remember, it’s always best to consult a veterinarian about your cat’s symptoms so you can give your pet the right treatment.Reasons Why Your Cat Is ItchyHere are some of the conditions that can cause a cat to feel itchy:AllergiesA lot of things can cause an allergic reaction in cats that leads to itchy skin. For example, if your cat is allergic to an ingredient in their food, such as a particular protein, their allergy might manifest as itchiness. As another example, your cat might be allergic to something in the environment, such as dust in the house or pollen that blows in through a window. And some cats have contact allergies to products, from litter to plastic or fabric, that can cause a reaction. The goal is to find the allergen and remove it from your cat’s environment as best as possible. In the case of a food allergy, using food trials with the guidance of your vet can help you figure out what’s causing the reaction so you can start giving your cat food that’s appropriate for them. ParasitesBites from insects and parasites can cause your cat to feel itchy. Fleas and mites are a couple examples. And, yes, indoor cats can get fleas, as they could be brought in from outside and find their way to your feline.When it comes to mites, such as ear mites or mange, your veterinarian can prescribe treatments after performing some tests for an accurate diagnosis.For flea allergy dermatitis caused by flea bites, it’s a matter of eliminating the flea infestation and preventing future infestations. You can use over-the-counter products, such as Frontline Plus for Cats, which is a topical treatment you apply between your cat’s shoulders (where they won’t be able to lick it off). It kills flea eggs, flea larvae, and adult fleas, as well as ticks and chewing lice, and each dose works for a month. But you also need to thoroughly clean your home and your pet’s things to be sure you eliminate fleas in the environment.

Can I Muzzle My Dog to Stop Barking?

Final Thoughts - Can I Muzzle My Dog to Stop Barking?Excessive barking can be frustrating and, if left unaddressed, can put you, as the owner, in a difficult situation. In some places, this can lead to fines or even eviction due to noise complaints. Unfortunately, the process of training a dog to stop barking isn’t one that is usually solved overnight – but it can be done! While you might have seen it recommended to use an “anti-bark” muzzle to stop your dog’s barking, it is not recommended for anything more than a 10 to 15-minute quick fix. Not only does it not teach your dog not to bark in the future, but the muzzle's design could create a dangerous situation. Instead, start by identifying the cause. Is your dog overly excited? Is there a trigger that makes them feel fearful and stressed? Are they trying to protect you when someone walks onto your property? Knowing the trigger will help you not only stop it but also manage your dog’s barking in the short term. If you feel overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to contact a professional trainer or certified behaviorist to offer guidance and direction. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Dog Facial Recognition App Helps Scientists Fight Against Rabies

In countries where dogs aren’t microchipped, don’t wear tags, and usually run free, it’s challenging for authorities to determine which dog has already been vaccinated for rabies. A new mobile phone app could help improve rabies vaccination by identifying dogs using facial recognition technology.A team of researchers from Washington State University tested the app’s effectiveness in a rabies vaccination clinic in Tanzania, where they microchipped, vaccinated, and registered dogs. The idea behind this project is to take a picture of a dog’s face during initial vaccination. Then the picture needs to be entered into the database via the app, along with other important information, such as the dog’s age, sex, and coat color. When veterinarians return to the same area, they will take a facial photo of each dog they come across. If the app finds a close match in the database, it will notify the vet, who can then decide whether the vaccinated dog in the database is indeed the same dog they are currently examining. A vaccination team testing the app visited nine villages in Tanzania, where they photographed and vaccinated 1,420 dogs. After the initial check, 20 images were deemed unusable, leaving exactly 1,400 to work with. All of these photographs were added to the app’s database.Later, a different validation team visited the same villages, assessing 720 dogs via the app, not knowing which dogs were already vaccinated, and entered into the app’s database. Once again, some photos were deemed unusable for the study - 161 were rejected.Using those images, the app helped the team to correctly identify 76.2% of vaccinated dogs and 98.9% of unvaccinated dogs. These findings were confirmed using microchips that were implanted under the dogs’ skin when they were vaccinated, as part of the study.“Because domestic dogs are the main reservoir for human rabies, controlling human rabies globally requires the mass vaccination of dogs,” said Felix Lankester, WSU Associate Professor and the lead investigator of the study. Scientists are working to optimize the app’s registration process to minimize the number of rejected photos. “When carrying out mass vaccination, one of the major problems that we face is trying to identify which dogs have and haven’t been vaccinated. For example, microchips are too expensive to use at the scale needed to eliminate rabies, and collars can be removed by owners. We developed this app to see if facial recognition might work, and it’s showing great promise in helping us achieve that goal,” Professor Lankester added. The facial recognition algorithm used by the app is developed in collaboration with Canadian company PiP My Pet. It identifies a dog by looking at key features of its face and comparing it to previously stored photos of the faces of other dogs. Photos with the highest number of similar features are shown as possible matches, leaving it to the user to pick the right one.The app’s success depends on the image quality and information about each dog being properly recorded. Before unusable images and incorrect information about dogs were removed from the database, users were only able to match around 65% of the vaccinated dogs.For the time being, users must be online to use the app’s facial matching feature, but Lankester and his team are working to make the app operational even offline. “We’re not quite there yet, but I think with the investment, the technology can get there. I am excited by its potential,” Lankester said.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Dog Rescued After Surviving a 60-foot Fall from Michigan Cliff

A family’s trip to one of Michigan’s most beautiful landmarks almost ended tragically, when their dog took a tumble from a cliff. The adventurous dog, named Dancer, was rescued after surviving a 60-foot fall from a cliff and spending a freezing night alone in the wilderness. The three-year-old pooch had escaped her leash and plunged off a steep cliff near Miners Castle, in the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore area in Munising, Michigan. The lakeshore runs alongside Lake Superior and is located in Michigan’s Upper Penninsula. The National Park Service (NPS) shared in a news release that Dancer fell 60 feet off a cliff to a ledge below. The dog’s owners spent hours searching the area but were unable to find the dog and were convinced that she didn’t survive the fall. Rangers at the nearby Pictured Rocks Park received a message about the lost pooch and decided to enlist the help of Superior High Angle Rescue Professionals (SHARP), a local rope rescue team, to search for the dog. The following morning SHARP members Erik Olsen, Westley Shaffer, and Tyler Davis went to the area and were able to find Dancer, who was cold, but alive. “Though she has spent the night trying to keep warm, she was excited to see the rescuers,” the service wrote. Dancer, who was described as a “professional troublemaker” didn’t have any reported injuries. The lucky pooch has since been reunited with her family and is recovering well after spending the night alone in the wilderness. The park service noted that Dancer was extremely lucky and although her story has a happy ending, her fall should serve as a reminder to everyone that areas of Pictured Rocks can get very cold and extremely slippery.“With this year’s mild start to winter, many areas of Pictured Rocks are more accessible than they are most years,” Chief Ranger Joe Hughes explained. “It is still important to remember to be prepared for slippery, cold conditions that can change quickly.”Whether you’re planning to hit a local trail with your pooch or are planning a trip to a state park, keep your pooch on a leash. Make sure that your pup’s harness is fitted properly so that your pooch can’t wiggle out of it, even if it tries. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Which Spring Flowers Are Toxic to Dogs?

Springtime is such a joyful time of the year. The harsh and gloomy winter days are finally over, and nature is awakening – the sun is shining, trees are blooming, and life erupts all over again. But that doesn’t mean that there are no downsides to this season. From spring allergies to spring shedding, there are also quite a few things that don’t spark joy when spring comes. One of those unexpected things that become a downside of spring when you’re a dog is flowers. Yup. Those gorgeous, lush-smelling blooms that appear in the spring can pose a threat to your dog, as many spring flowers are toxic to our canine friends.So without further ado, let’s see which of these pretty, colorful flowers are potentially dangerous for dogs – so you’ll know exactly which of them to avoid planting in your garden or putting in a vase.Which Spring Flowers Are Toxic to Dogs?As we all know, dogs are inquisitive and love to nibble and sniff all sorts of odd things, flowers included. This is why you should be vigilant in the spring when many potentially toxic plant varieties are in season. Keep an eye out for the following flowers when walking your pet out and about or when picking out seeds for your flower beds!Daffodils

How Often Do Dogs Need to Go Out to Pee?

When nature calls, dogs answer. And when dogs answer, so do you – by taking them outside to do their business. In other words, if you have a potty-trained dog, they will rely on you to know when their bladder is full or at least to take them out frequently enough so it doesn’t get full in the first place. This leaves most owners with the question – how often do dogs need to go out to pee? You don’t want them to have an accident inside the home but you probably don’t want to take them out for a walk every hour or so (even if you did have the time for it) so it’s important to find the right balance. Here’s what you need to know so you can make it work for you and your dog.How Often Do Dogs Pee?The frequency at which dogs need to go out to pee can vary depending on several factors, including their age, breed, size, activity level, and overall health. In general, you can use the following guidelines as a starting point, but it's important to pay attention to your individual dog's needs and adjust accordingly. Sometimes, it’s enough to just observe the signs your dog gives you, like nudging you or standing by the door. But at other times, it requires a bit of “intervention”. When it comes to the connection between a dog’s age and their peeing habits, the younger the pooch, the more they need to go out. Puppies have smaller bladders and higher metabolisms, so they typically need to go out more frequently. A general rule of thumb is to take a puppy out every 1 to 2 hours, especially after eating, drinking, playing, or waking up from a nap. Make sure to let them know why you are going out so they’ll gradually relate walkies with peeing time.Adult dogs, on the other hand, can usually hold their bladders for longer periods. Most adult dogs need to go out every 4 to 6 hours. Some larger breeds may have more bladder capacity and can hold it longer, while smaller breeds may need to go out more frequently, so have that in mind too. Of course, as dogs age, their ability to hold their bladders may decrease. Senior dogs may need to go out more frequently, potentially every 3 to 4 hours. What is more, some senior dogs may suffer from incontinence, meaning that they can’t really control when or where they pee. In this case, you could  use disposable dog diapers until their condition improves or in periods when you’re not there to take them out more frequently and prevent accidents.

How Do I Know if My Dog is Afraid?

Experts often talk about the importance of reading your dog’s body language to reduce fear, stress, and anxiety. But do you sometimes struggle to identify if your dog is really scared or if you’re just reading into a situation? Many common dog behaviors can be misinterpreted – fear or calm, comfort or stress. If this sounds familiar, don’t worry. We are here to help! This post dives deep into the basics of canine communication and body language. We’ll highlight some of the more subtle body language cues, behavioral changes, and vocalization that you should be looking out for. Plus, we’ll look at the most common situations that trigger fear in dogs, why these situations can be frightening, and how to comfort and support your dog moving forward. What’s the ultimate goal? Ensuring you have the information needed to build your dog’s confidence, improve your communication, and help them enjoy a world free from unnecessary fear and anxiety. Dedicate the time and energy today to set your dog up for long-term success (avoiding potential health complications from too much stress). Common Signs of Fear and Anxiety in Dogs Life as a pet parent would be much easier if our pups could speak up and tell us exactly what they think in each situation. Unfortunately, that’s not the reality we live in. Instead, we must learn to pick up on their non-verbal communication to build a strong and trusting relationship with our furry friends. Here are a few ways they may be trying to tell you that they are feeling “off” or nervous: Body Language One of the most important ways our pets communicate their feelings is through their body language. This includes the way they stand, the way they move, how they hold their ears or their tail, and so much more. Some signs will be obvious, while others will be more subtle. Here are some of the more common signs of fear and stress related to body language: Excessive panting YawningShowing teethLip-licking Puckering of the lips Whale eyes (showing the whites of the eyes)Large, dilated pupils Ears backward or pressed forward Tail up and stiff or down tucked between the legsCowering or standing with the body low to the ground Attempting to hide Displacement behaviors (sneezing, itching)Shaking or trembling Submissive urination Behavior Changes In addition to changes in how your dog stands or positions their body, you may notice some behavioral changes. You may find that your dog tries to back away or avoid their trigger. On the other hand, your dog may become reactive towards a trigger by jumping or lunging at it. Both these reactions signify stress or anxiety, highlighting the importance of getting to know your dog as an individual. For example, we have two male dogs in our house. When presented with a trigger, Lucifer will hold his ground while Indiana tends to back away or hide.You may also notice changes in how your dog reacts to objects or activities in their regular life. Many dogs, even those who are highly food-driven, will be reluctant to eat or take treats when stressed. Vocal Cues Finally, while we are focusing mainly on non-verbal communication, there are some vocalizations that could help you recognize that something is wrong. Dogs who are nervous, anxious, or afraid may bark at their trigger. They may also whine to show that they are uncomfortable.

New Study Reveals More About How Cats Purr

Pet parents love hearing their cats purr while in a relaxed and blissful state, and it’s believed that a kitty’s purr could be healing, too. But, no matter how long you’ve shared your home with felines, you might still wonder how your furry friend is able to make such a unique sound. New research now sheds some more light on how cats purr, so people can learn even more about their feline companions.

Do Dogs Cry Tears?

Perhaps you spotted tears streaming from your pet’s eyes and wondered: do dogs cry tears as an emotional response? Or is there a different explanation for this phenomenon? Well, the answer is pretty straightforward – dogs don’t produce tears because of their emotions like we humans do. They produce tears primarily to lubricate their eyes, and remove dust and other irritants. But, this does not mean that they don’t express emotions in other ways – here’s what you need to know about your teary-eyed furball.Do Dogs Cry Real Tears?If you spot tears running from your dog’s eyes, you are not deceived – they are real. However, they are not tears of sadness or emotion, as dogs simply don’t express feelings the same way as we do. The role of those tears is more of a bodily function. They are there to lubricate the eye, making sure it functions as it should. After all, dogs can just rub their eyes or place a few drops inside when needed. So, their body does the job for them, and hence the tears. Of course, an excessive amount of tears is not natural. And neither are dry and tearless eyes. So, in either one of these cases, you should schedule a visit with your vet. Dry eyes in dogs are also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) or "dry eye syndrome," and can lead to discomfort, irritation, and potential complications if left untreated. In many cases of dry eyes, veterinarians prescribe artificial tears or  lubricating eye drops to help moisturize the eyes and relieve discomfort. These drops can help supplement the natural tear production and provide relief from dryness. 

Unexpected Things That Helped Me Cope With Loss of My 17-Year-Old Cat

Getting to share your life with a pet is truly a privilege, as there’s not much that can rival the sheer joy and genuine love these little creatures bring to us. But when the time comes to say goodbye, the weight of grief can feel overwhelming. In these moments, it feels like nothing can help lighten the load we carry, but it’s crucial to remember that the journey through pet loss is a shared experience among countless others who have navigated the same emotional terrain.I recently found myself grappling with the profound loss of my beloved four-legged companion, a 17-year-old cat called Luna. Luna was not just a pet; she was a loyal friend for more than half of my life, a source of comfort during challenging times, and a bundle of joy who brightened even the gloomiest days. When Luna passed away, a void opened up in my heart, leaving me adrift in a sea of grief.

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