Why Do Cats Go Crazy at Night?

by Mary Simpson

Published: August 19th, 2021

When the sun goes down, your cat is on the prowl… for madness and mayhem! What is it about the night time that brings out the friskiness in our cats?

While you may think “Midnight Madness” is a late night sale at the local mall, those of us who share space with a feisty feline know better. It means Fluffy racing around the house in the wee hours while emitting a bone-chilling howl.

For my tiny tabby Shelby, it was like clockwork. The guttural, throaty call and the tap, tap, tap of busy claws on hardwood floors would begin at 3 am. By morning my bed was peppered with favorite soft toys that she had “killed” and brought to me throughout the night.

This manic behavior is not uncommon in cats and there can be a number of reasons your kitty feels the witching hour is the best time to cut loose and let off steam. Here are six common thoughts about the feline phenomenon:

Is it nature or nurture? Cats in the wild typically hunt at night and it doesn’t matter a hoot that your girl is well-fed; her need to stalk and hunt out the predators she imagines lurking under the bed and in your cupboards can be what’s driving her late night antics. And if your rambunctious feline isn’t running around the house in the middle of the night, you might discover that she likes to wake up at dawn to go on the hunt like she would if she were living outside on her own. That’s because cats are typically most active at dusk and dawn. This is when the prey animals that they like to go after are out and about and easier to catch. Either way, whether she’s most active at night or at dawn, her energetic behavior might be super annoying if she ends up waking you up before your alarm is set to go off.

When hunger strikes. Another reason why your cat might be acting up during the night is because she’s feeling hungry. While you might be fast asleep, her tummy might be growling and ready for a midnight snack or meal. This might cause her to run around, making loads of noise to try to get your attention. Or, again, it might happen in the early hours of dawn when her natural instinct tells her that it is time to get out there and hunt down some breakfast. So, figuring out the right meal schedule might make a difference if this is the reason your cat acts a little crazy during the night.

Lazy, crazy or both? Most felines spend the day indoors chasing nothing more than a ray of sunshine. They typically sleep, eat then sleep some more. While this used to be in anticipation of the night’s big hunt, that isn’t the case anymore and all that lying about just leaves them with pent up energy that needs an outlet. But even though your cat might just be releasing all of the energy she built up throughout her inactive day, it is important to consider that she might also be more active at night because she’s hoping to get your attention. After spending the day without you, and maybe even feeling quite bored, especially if she doesn’t have any other kitties to keep her company, she might let all of her energy out at night. Taking steps to interact with your pet during the day, giving her a chance to spend plenty of time with you, and also taking some time out for interactive play with her, might be what she needs.

Guard duty calls. My crew go ballistic if another cat suddenly appears outside a window in the night (not so much for raccoons or possums). Those deep, threatening yowls include racing from window to window to keep the offender out and protect her turf. Note that if you have multiple cats, the creation of an instant yowling tag-team is imminent.

Could it be fleas? The cause may not be down to pent up energy but annoying, itchy fleas that are driving your cat round the bend. Even if she’s an indoor puss, simply strolling in the yard can be enough to pick up fleas. Never assume it “can’t be” because this is one potential cause you’ll want to identify and deal with immediately. Trust me! If you don’t tackle the flea problem right away, you might end up with an infestation that not only attacks your cat but also attacks you and your family.

Is she itching to itch? Your feline may be suffering from allergies – either airborne or food related – and the itchy skin that accompanies these maladies can cause erratic behavior and sudden bolting/flying around the house as she tries to outrun the discomfort. Speak with your vet for advice on this and arrange testing if you suspect it may be the basis of her manic behavior.

A mouse in the house? You could indeed have a mouse or other vermin in the house that comes out at night. So while kitty’s busy acting as exterminator, you’re silently cursing her diligence. Be fair and check cupboards for mouse droppings or, if she seems obsessed with a particular location in the house, take a peek to see if her late night activities are with just cause. If you do find some critters, you can thank your kitty for alerting you to the problem, so go ahead and give her a nice reward like a new toy or a special treat.

A health problem or old age? As cats get older, their behavior can change in several different ways. Every cat is different, but simply observing your companion’s behavior as she ages may give you clues about why she is suddenly acting differently, particularly at night. Also, in addition to old age, there might be health problems that are causing her to seek attention at night because she might feel restless or uncomfortable or she might be in pain. If you notice a lot of changes in your pet’s behavior at any time of the day or night, it’s best to contact your vet to see if you can get to the bottom of things and help your cat feel better.

What Can You Do?

While some may recommend confining her to a separate room at night, to me that just seems like punishment for her being, well, a cat. Some other solutions include:

Have a highly active play-date with her before bedtime – chasing a laser pointer, hiding toys, fetch – followed by her dinner. This can help quell her urge to hunt and catch, and a full tummy has a calming influence. My dad used a fishing rod with soft toy at the end. Cast out, reel back in and you’ll have her pouncing in no time (without the need to get up to fetch toys she caught and ditched).
Keep her engaged during the day. There are many inter-active gadgets on the market that will allow you to talk to your pet and even call her over to it so you can actually toss a treat from time to time.
Check out toys that can be can be set on a timer. It will catch her off-guard when you’re out, keep her on her toys and help prevent boredom.
Mix it up when it comes to her playthings. When you sense she’s losing interest in the same-old-same-old stuff, pull out some new toys and store the old ones for later. Douse ‘em with catnip and you’ll buy yourself hours of playtime when you’re not home.
YouTube offers up a number of cat-friendly channels that include birds, fish tanks and scurrying mice. If you’ve got a video-loving feline, pop something on to keep her happy when you’re not around.
Let them quell their need to explore. I let my crew out on the deck for 10-15 minutes each morning. Rain or snow (be on hand to let them in asap), it satisfies their need to survey what’s going on in their yard, make sure their catnip plant hasn’t been messed with (yes, even in winter) and overall just seems to calm them for the rest of the morning.
If she’s the only pet in the house, consider increasing your family. Cats are social and love the companionship of another feline or pooch. Choose carefully and take the time to integrate.

If these tricks aren’t working, and your inspection for fleas and vermin proves negative, you may want to speak with your vet. There is a disorder known as Hyperesthesia syndrome which can present similarly to above and includes obsessive scratching or grooming and running about. While not fatal, it does need to be treated and controlled with the advice of your vet.

Mary Simpson

Sharing space with three seriously judgy Schnoodles and a feline who prefers to be left alone. #LivingMyBestLife

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Why Do Cats Go Crazy For Catnip?

Dude, have you ever wondered why do cats go crazy for catnip? Let’s deeply ponder how this beloved feline herb drives your kitty wild! You give your cat a toy filled with catnip and watched his antics with amusement. Have you have sat back and wondered, “Why do cats go crazy for catnip?” How does this simple herb affect felines, and why do so many kitties love it so much, while others aren’t as impressed by it? First Off, What is Catnip? Catnip is an herb within the mint family. It affects felines like your domesticated kitty, as well as panthers, tigers, and lions. Therefore, it’s found in a variety of cat toys, and many pet parents even make their own toys using the herb because their cats go crazy for it. Feel Good Pheromones Cats with an inherited sensitivity to catnip will experience intense feelings when they smell the herb. Catnip is thought to mimic feel good pheromones and stimulate receptors within the feline brain that are responsive to these pheromones. Related: Quit Spending Money on Expensive Cat Toys and Go DIY This is why cats end up rolling around, rubbing their faces in a catnip toy, and acting strangely after they smell it. Some felines may even become vocal, hyper, or a bit aggressive and protective over the catnip. But when cats eat it, it may mellow them out instead. Crazy for Nepetalactone What is it about catnip that gets kitties so excited? Experts have pointed to a chemical called nepetalactone, which is found in the herb’s volatile oil. This oil is in the stems, seed, and leaves of the herb, and all it takes is a couple of sniffs for a cat to feel totally blissed out. But the effects of this chemical are short-lived, as they’ll usually only last roughly 10 minutes. And again, the effects will vary amongst felines as well, with some becoming calm or mellow, and others becoming really active and playful. Related: Eco-Friendly Ripple Rug For Cats Looking For A Kick Start After a few minutes of fun with catnip, your kitty will lose interest. And it will take roughly two hours before your cat’s body responds to the herb again. Dried or Fresh is Best The type of catnip used will affect the intensity of your cat’s experience, provided that he is one of the 50 percent of kitties that reacts to the herb in the first place. Although you can purchase catnip sprays, they’re usually not as effective as fresh or dried catnip because they typically don’t have enough of the chemical nepetalactone. Whether dried or fresh, the herb is safe, even if your cat eats a bit, and it isn’t addictive. But because the oils will dissipate quickly, it’s a good idea to store dried catnip in your freezer to preserve its potency. Whether you grow your own catnip or purchase it from the store, you can even use it as a tool to train your cat. For example, you can rub some on a scratching post you want your kitty to use, or you can sprinkle some in your cat’s new bed to make it a spot that he’ll gladly call his own. Can Your Cat Overdose on Catnip? Typically, cats know when they’ve had enough catnip, but if your kitty goes a bit overboard and eats too much of it, he may experience vomiting or diarrhea. As long as he takes a break from catnip, his body will come back into a state of balance naturally with some time. Other than that, the herb is safe and non-toxic, though some pet parents choose to stick with organic varieties. Some will even grow their own catnip at home so that their cats can enjoy the herb fresh or dried. You typically won’t be able to tell if a kitty is sensitive to catnip until he’s around three months or older. But if your feline friend loves it, let him enjoy it every couple of weeks in order to prevent the diminishment of its effects.

Why Do Cats Meow at Night?

Let me sing you the song of my people… as soon as you tuck in for the night! Let’s get to the bottom of why cats meow at night. You probably think it’s really cute when your cat meows at you to let you know she’s hungry or wants to sit in your lap to get some cuddle time in during the day. At night, though, it’s another story. If you’re trying to get a good night’s sleep but your kitty is up and making a lot of noise, you likely aren’t going to be amused, right? A cat that makes it a habit to meow loudly throughout the night can definitely be annoying. But even though this behavior might seem unwarranted, there are several reasons why a cat may feel the need to become more vocal once the sun goes down and you’ve gone off to bed. Rather than getting angry or frustrated with your pet, it’s best to try to figure out what could be causing her nighttime vocalizations. That way, you can get to the actual cause of her restlessness and work on providing the appropriate solution so your furry friend can feel at ease and hopefully start sleeping through at least most of the night. What are some of the reasons why a cat might spend a lot of time meowing at night? We cover a few of them below, but keep in mind that it’s always a good idea to consult with a veterinarian if your pet is exhibiting strange new behaviors that have you feeling concerned. Nocturnal Habits Cats are typically awake at some point during the night, so it can be considered normal behavior if you find your kitty walking around the house, looking for food, playing, or running around to release some energy. Also, even though you might think that your kitty is a nocturnal animal and her nighttime habits are a result of that, your little feline is actually crepuscular, or mostly active at dawn and dusk. Once you take this into consideration, you might discover that your kitty waking up really early and zooming around the house before the sun comes up is nothing out of the ordinary. Related: How To Discipline A Cat (Without Losing Your Mind!) The Night Can Be an Exciting Time for a Cat Although your kitty spends quite a bit of time awake during the day, he may still feel the need to have a little fun at night, even though this is an inconvenience to your sleep. If your cat is up at night and tends to make noise by running around or meowing loudly, he might be trying to get your attention, he might want food, or he might be ready to play. You may want to leave some toys out for him to play with (just make sure that they’re safe for independent play), or you might need to change your pet’s feeding schedule so he isn’t as hungry during the night. And you might even consider adopting another kitty so they can keep each other company during the night without bothering you. Another thing to consider is that younger cats, especially those that are less than 1 year old, are typically highly active at night. And a newly adopted kitten or older cat may cry out at night because he feels a bit frightened, lonely, and insecure in his new surroundings. Taking steps to ensure your new pet feels safe and secure in his new home is key. Rather than locking him out of your bedroom, you might want to let him in so he won’t feel alone in a strange place. Also, kitties who like to sit at the window and look outside may see and hear things, such as stray cats or wild animals, that make them call out loudly. And loud cats might also be looking for a mate at night, so spaying and neutering your pets may make a difference. Potential Medical Conditions Despite natural behaviors and meowing to simply get your attention or to release energy, there are some underlying medical conditions that may cause your cat to become loud and vocal at night. Related: How To Calm A Hyper Kitten For example, if you get up to see why your cat is meowing and you find that he’s wandering restlessly throughout the house, he may be uncomfortable or in pain (especially if he’s also vocal during the day). In this case, it’s wise to take your pet to the vet to be examined. Another cause could be CDS (Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome), which can make a cat wake up and feel disoriented. Or, if you have a senior kitty, he might be vocalizing if he’s losing his hearing. When it comes to possible medical problems that might be causing your cat to meow more than usual during the night, don’t hesitate to talk about these changes in behavior with a vet. The solution might be surprisingly simple, and it’s worth doing whatever you can to ensure your kitty feels well. What You Can Do In order to get the sleep you need and help your kitty calm down and quiet down, you can try the following tips: Interact with your cat by scheduling play sessions during the day, and especially in the evening before bed. A tired cat may be more likely to go to sleep with you and may not have the energy to keep you up at night. Use toys that allow your cat to mimic hunting behavior, and play with your kitty until he appears tired and has had enough.Give your cat a meal right before you head to bed, as felines usually like to sleep after a large meal. This might also prevent your cat from asking for food throughout the night or before your alarm goes off. If this doesn’t work, though, you can use a timed feeder during the night. To avoid weight gain, talk to your vet about appropriate meal sizes if you’re adding more meals throughout the night.If you find that your cat craves attention and appears lonely or bored at night, getting him a companion kitty may be a good solution, provided that they get along and play with one another. And, whether you have a single cat or more than one, simply closing the door to your bedroom at night could allow them to release energy and play without disturbing you. However, if you close the door and your cat becomes more frustrated, this may not be the right solution, so work with your unique feline to figure out what he would prefer.Leave safe cat toys around the house for your kitty to find and play with at night. You may even want to leave some treats around for him to hunt down and munch on until it’s time for breakfast.If your cat is older and becomes disoriented at night, leave a night light on here and there, place a warm cat bed in your bedroom so he doesn’t get lonely, and take other steps to ensure he’s comfortable and relaxed. Ultimately, if you hope to break these nighttime habits, it might not be a good idea to reward your cat’s behavior by giving him attention, playtime, food, etc. in the middle of the night. After ensuring that your kitty isn’t injured or hurt, and figuring out why he’s meowing at night, simply ignoring him might work, especially if fulfilling his requests motivates him to continue bothering you. In other words, to stop the behavior, your cat might need to learn that meowing will get him nowhere while you sleep. At the same time, however, don’t be cruel, as there might be emotional or physical reasons for this behavior. And remember, if you have questions or concerns, contact a veterinarian for some advice.

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One of nature’s most awe-inspiring sights – a total solar eclipse – takes place August 21, 2017. You have your glasses for the big event, but does your dog need a pair? So today’s the big day and while many pet parents may be over-thinking the “do I or don’t I need sunglasses for my pooch” question, many more are just curious as to how their little guy is going to react when the new moon crosses in front of the sun and the lights go out during your game of catch. Apparently their reaction may be more intriguing then the eclipse itself! Related: Why Do Cats Go Crazy At Night? It seems our internal body clocks (AKA circadian rhythm) are driven by an area in our brain that responds to light and dark. When it’s sunny out, we’re wide awake while on gloomy days we feel like a nap. Our pets are similar and when daylight suddenly turns to darkness and the temperatures drop, both wild and domestic animals can have a strong instinctive reaction. Dairy cows have been known to return to their barn because they typically prefer to eat during daylight. Bees and ants head back to their nests, crickets start chirping, owls and bats become active (because the mosquitos have come out) and whales have been known to breach above the waves. Its also reported that orb-web weaving spiders that typically demolish their webs at night and spin anew each morning begin to destroy their webs during an eclipse. Related: What You Need to Know About Dog Seizures And while study results are inconclusive, pets prone to epileptic seizures may need to be monitored as owners report that lunar cycles can trigger an episode. According to Meaghan Callahan, DVM, MS, CVA (Veterinarian and Acupuncturist) at Pebble Creek Animal Hospital in Tampa, Florida, while it’s unlikely your pet will have an adverse reaction it could cause anxiety and exacerbate any underlying stress related condition. The solution is simple. “Give extra love and attention for a distraction during this time. Having an ‘eclipse party,’ featuring their favorite treat is a great way to pass the time.” Although there are a lot of informal observations about how wild and domestic animals react to a solar eclipse there is very little official tracking of these behaviors; the California Academy of Sciences it determined to change that. They’ve created an app called iNaturalist and are encouraging every interested pet parent to log in, observe their pet and share their findings for future studies. Though I suspect my cats will sleep through it all, I’m up for an experiment! So back to that question about whether you need to invest in a pair of shades for Rover. According to Angela Speck, director of astronomy and a professor of astrophysics at the University of Missouri, “On a normal day, your pets don’t try to look at the sun, and therefore don’t damage their eyes. And on this day, they’re not going to do it, either.” Kinda what I thought too.

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These Are the States With the Most Spoiled Doggos in 2023

With the holiday season fast approaching, it is the time for presents, cuddling, yummy meals and, to be honest, spoiling the one you love, including your four-legged bestie. But are there some pet parents that take it a bit too far, and if so, do we know in which states they live? If you are one of those owners who like to pamper their furry friend and spoil them to no end, stick around to find out who’s guilty of overindulging their doggo just like you!An interesting  Forbes Advisor survey estimates that around 22.2% of dog owners in the USA, or one in five, admit to having spent more money on  Christmas gifts for their dogs, rather than gifts for friends and family. This means that there are certainly some pampered and spoiled doggos to be found across the nation, but what is more interesting is that dog owners in certain states tend to spoil dogs more than in others. Now, after a nationwide survey, the results are in!With a score of 100 out of 100, Florida definitely wins as the state with the most spoiled dogs! The Sunshine State is reported to have around 66.5% of owners who spend more money on their dog’s health, grooming, and gifts, than on their own. They are also more likely to pamper dogs by perfuming them, pushing them in strollers, buying them clothes and gifts, or taking them to restaurants. Interestingly, the second place, and right behind Florida, is Alaska, with a score of 98.69 out of 100. Nearly half of all dog owners in this northerly state admit to regularly throwing birthday parties for their pooches, purchasing them special outfits, and even putting cologne on them. They too will spend more money on their pets than on themselves.Behind Florida and Alaska in places 1 and 2 respectively, are the following states:3. Washington - 91.82 out of 1004. Colorado - 82.04 out of 1005. California - 77.96 out of 1006. New Jersey - 77.52 out of 1007. Illinois - 77.23 out of 1008. Texas - 70.80 out of 1009. Delaware - 69.93 out of 10010. Virginia - 69.34 out of 100The survey also offered some indicators and activities that might suggest that you are spoiling your dog. If you regularly do some of these activities, you might be pampering your pooch as well!Taking family photos with the dog Ordering the dog a special treat at a restaurant Bringing the dog on vacationPushing the dog in a strollerSpending more money on the dog’s health and grooming than on their own Buying the dog outfits and accessoriesSo, what’s the result? Are you too on the list of owners who spoil their pets? Let us know!

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.

New Tool Detects and Predicts Dog Mobility Issues

Researchers at the University of Liverpool and experts at Dogs Trust have joined forces to create a unique new tool for detecting and predicting dog mobility issues. These veterinary experts have developed the GenPup-M questionnaire. This survey asks dog owners a series of questions to about their dog's mobility. The GenPup-M questionnaire is designed in a way that can help owners determine whether their dog might be experiencing mobility problems, even mild ones. Mobility-related problems are the third most commonly diagnosed disease in dogs. It’s estimated that 200,000 dogs are affected by musculoskeletal disease annually. According to some estimates, 20% of dogs have mobility issues before one year old, but most aren’t diagnosed until they are eight to 13 years old. Current mobility questionnaires are developed for dogs already diagnosed with mobility problems and track their quality of life. This means that many dogs spend the better part of their lives living with a painful condition that negatively impacts their overall health and well-being. A recent study, published in PLOS ONE confirms the validity of the GenPup-M questionnaire. The study involved 62 dogs - 31 with mobility issues and 31 without mobility issues.Scientists obtained the dogs’ clinical history from the owners, and all dogs received an orthopedic exam at the beginning of the study. Next, owners were asked to complete the GenPup-M questionnaire along with a previously validated mobility questionnaire.To determine the survey’s validity and its ability to identify mobility issues in dogs, scientists compared GenPup-M responses with the results of other expert tests, including advanced gait analysis.“Impaired mobility can affect a dog’s ability to engage in daily activities and interactions, move or exercise freely. If an animal is unwilling to or cannot play, exercise, or express normal behavior, this can impact its quality of life,” said Natasha Clark, veterinary surgeon and researcher at the Department of Musculoskeletal & Aging Science at the University of Liverpool. According to Clark, when done over time at regular checkups, the GenPup-M questionnaire can identify subtle changes in a dog’s mobility without the use of expensive and time-consuming gait analysis. This new tool can help vets diagnose and slow the development of mobility problems in dogs. “Our research doesn’t stop here and we will continue to research and develop GenPup-M to refine it as an even more effective tool for vets and dog caregivers,” added Clark.The Deputy Head of Research, Welfare Projects & Grants at Dogs Trust, Dr Jane Murray, said, “We are delighted to work collaboratively with the University of Liverpool on this study which serves to improve the well-being of dogs, as no dog is immune to mobility issues. Generation Pup is a ground-breaking study of the health, welfare, and behavior of our dogs and we hope this research helps more owners detect early signs of mobility issues, leading to veterinary and management interventions that can improve the welfare of the affected dogs.”Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Why Does My Cat Have a Bald Spot?

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

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Dave Bautista Teams Up With the ASPCA for Giving Tuesday

With an estimated 3.1 million dogs entering U.S. animal shelters every year, the need for funding and support is evident. For many, this is a call to action to find ways to make a difference – including for Guardians of the Galaxy actor Dave Bautista. Starting today, November 28th, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) is launching a new fundraising and awareness campaign with 54 Bautista and his four rescue pit bulls in the spotlight. The campaign was created as part of Giving Tuesday, a global response to the corporate focus of Black Friday (as well as Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday). Rather than highlighting sales and taking advantage of deals through your favorite stores and brands, Giving Tuesday encourages Americans to take a moment and consider how they can make a difference in the lives of others – including, of course, animals in shelters and rescue organizations. Bautista’s involvement in the campaign is motivated by his experiences with animal rescue and its impact on his life. “My home is where my dogs are because there is just such a sense of love,” Bautista stated. “I feel like wherever they are, there’s this sense of normalcy, which is hard for me to attain these days.” He went on to explain, “My first rescue dogs were Ollie and Maggie, and I’ve had them for about five years. I adopted them, and after becoming so connected with them, I started to be more aware of how many dogs are just waiting for someone to give them good, loving homes. You get so much in return when you adopt a pet, and I’m going to preach adoption for the rest of my life.”

How to Clean Dog Diarrhea From Carpet

Sure, sharing your life with a dog is fun and your days are filled with love, but sometimes, it can get messy. Like, real messy. After all, even though we love them, dogs are not the neatest of animals out there (that title would go to kitties, I’m afraid). In the daily life of a dog owner, there is bound to be a bit of dirt, hair, and - inevitably, poop – to clean up after your pet. And as if picking up poop from the street after your pet wasn’t bad enough, sometimes accidents happen inside your home, and the messes are that much harder to clean. Especially when you’re dealing with diarrhea and not your regular ole poop situation. But even though it’s far from pleasant to clean up after, it’s not the end of the world if an accident happens. While it can be difficult to thoroughly clean dog diarrhea embedded in the carpet fibers, everything can be cleaned if you are persistent enough – and know how to approach the issue. Here are some tips and tricks that can help you clean dog diarrhea from carpet – stains and smell both.How to Clean Dog Diarrhea from Carpet: Step by StepNow, keep in mind that cleaning dog diarrhea from a carpet can be a messy task, but it's important to clean it thoroughly and as quickly as possible to prevent lasting stains and lingering odors. Even if you are disgusted by the sight before you, it is necessary to keep at it until the job’s done. Someone has to do it, right? And we all know it ain’t gonna be your pooch.So, first things first, you’ll need to gather supplies. It is always good to have them handy and keep them stored in a secure cabinet. You never know when an accident can happen and they will be needed, so be sure to be stocked on  pet-safe cleaning supplies (if you’re not already, now is a perfect time to pick up all of your basic necessities). 

Are Candles Safe for Pets?

Final Thoughts: Candles and PetsWhether you want to include a candle in your holiday décor while keeping your pet safe or simply burn a candle to mask those pesky “pet smells,” there ARE options available to enjoy the gentle glow of a candle without creating unnecessary risks for your companion.Choose a pet-safe candle that is made from plant-based wax, avoiding those scented with potentially toxic essential oils like peppermint and pine oils. Set your candle up on a secure surface out of their reach and supervise your pet the entire time it burns. When you’re done, ensure your candle is stored safely where your pet can’t reach it.These simple precautions may be the difference between a festive holiday scene and a trip to your local emergency vet!Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

A Small Cat Family Was Found Living in the Ceiling of a Restaurant

Cats choose their homes in the unlikeliest of places! And a recent event from Massachusetts, when a momma cat and her four newborn kittens were discovered living in the ceiling of a New Bedford restaurant, definitely confirms this.The  Animal Rescue League of Boston said that they received a call from the employees of a local New Bedford restaurant. It was no ordinary call, however, as the employees said that they were “hearing kittens meowing from the ceiling”. The momma cat, however, was no stranger at the premises. The staff noticed her around the place before but did not suspect that she was pregnant – or that she was living in the ceiling. But hearing the distinct sound of kittens meowing, the employees were quick to understand what happened. The animal rescue team quickly responded to the call, and their field service agents soon spotted the tiny kittens through a small slit between the restaurant wall and a hole in the ceiling. With a little bit of patience and work, the rescue team managed to retrieve all four kittens from the ceiling space, and safely transport them to the rescue shelter. Rescuing the momma cat, however, was not as easy. Cunning and careful, the cat evaded all the efforts of the team, including artificial kitten sounds, and tasty cat food. Ultimately, the team employed a humane cat trap that they placed within the ceiling. The next day, they reported that the momma cat entered the trap at around 11 p.m. at night, which allowed them to reunite her with her children at the Animal Rescue League's Boston Animal Care and Adoption Center. There, they were all treated and given veterinary care."Community cats are incredibly resilient, and have a knack to find shelter for themselves and their offspring," the animal rescue league said in a subsequent statement for  NBC Boston. "However, kittens born this time of year are incredibly vulnerable to the elements and other potential dangers and ARL urges the public that if a cat with offspring are discovered, to contact ARL Field Services for assistance." In the meantime, the happy momma cat and her babies are resting and growing, until the time comes when they can be put up for adoption and find forever homes and each their own happy ending to this unusual story.

These Dog Foods Are Recalled Due to Potential Salmonella Contamination

Owners should always be careful about the food that they give to their pet – and it’s only natural that every caring owner will naturally want the best for their pet. But sometimes, even getting the best of the best is not a guarantee as accidents can happen anytime. In this case, the issue is that several popular dog food brands got potentially contaminated with salmonellla. Recently, owners had been shocked to find out that three brands of pet food were recalled - having tested positive for salmonella. And in fact, the past year saw at least seven recalls of dog food brands that were either contaminated with this nasty bacteria, or had harmful elevated levels of vitamins. And, to make matters worse, 2019 saw several dogs get seriously ill after consuming the food. And our dear four-legged friends are not the only ones at risk - handling the contaminated dog food, we too are exposed to salmonella. In 2012, up to 49 people in the United States and Canada fell ill after an outbreak of salmonella that was traced to dry dog food. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 10 persons were so ill that hospitalization was required.According to the CDC, the pesky salmonella bacteria causes “an estimated 1.3 million infections in Americans every year, resulting in 26,500 hospitalizations and 420 deaths.”As for the latest recalls, a notice from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, released on October 30th, includes the following foods: “one by Mid America Pet Food of Mount Pleasant, Texas, involving three lots of Victor Super Premium Dog Food, Select Beef Meal & Brown Rice Formula after random sampling found salmonella, which can sicken pets as well as people who come in contact with it.” Furthermore, it is stated that the food was “Sold by retailers across the U.S., the recalled products come in five-pound, 15-pound and 40-pound bags with a best-by-date of June 12, 2024, and contain one of the following three lot numbers on the back of the products: 1000016890, 1000016891, 1000016892.”The second recall involves TFP Nutrition of Nacogdoches, and their Retriever All Life Stages Mini Chunk Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food, in 50lbs bags, with best-by-dates of October 2024 and production codes of either 3277 TFP or 3278 TFP. Lastly, the third recall in the latest wave is Blue Ridge Beef of Statesville, North Carolina, which is recalling Breeders Choice dog food with the UPC code 8 54298 00193 1 due to possible salmonella contamination.In case you suspect your pet has eaten any potentially infected foods, it is important to know the  symptoms of salmonella poisoning in pets: they can be lethargic, listless, or have diarrhea that is followed by fever and vomiting. If you recognise these in your pet, don’t hesitate to contact your vet. And, if you suspect that the dog food you have is contaminated, make sure to destroy it in a way that children, animals, or people cannot get in contact with it.

Senior Leaves $2.8 Million Estate to Pets, Not Kids

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Study Reveals a Link Between Mental Health and an Attachment to Pets

We have all been told at one time or another that our pets are good for our mental health. But have you ever stopped to consider how your mental health could also impact the attachment bond you form with your pet? Could your attachment to your pet hurt your mental health?These questions and more were the inspiration behind a new study out of the University of Helsinki.Rather than focusing solely on the benefits of dogs and cats to our mental well-being, researchers went a step better. The goal was to better understand how the relationship we form with our pets could have an impact both on us as well as on the pets themselves. They also dug into how an owner’s attachment style could impact the care they provide and our pet’s behaviors.The research team collected information from approximately 2,500 pet owners and 3,300 pets to gather the necessary data. This included:Personality traits (of owners, dogs, and cats)Owner mental well-being ratingsUnwanted behavior traitsOther potential influences, like children in the householdAttachment stylesIn terms of the relationship, they looked specifically at two types of insecure attachment – anxious and avoidant. Anxious attachment refers to owners who desire to have their pets nearby and are concerned about the risk of losing their pets. On the other end of the spectrum, avoidant attachment refers to pet owners concerned about losing their personal autonomy and, as such, seeking a higher level of independence.The study found that cat owners with lower mental health ratings demonstrated anxious attachment to their feline friends. However, dog owners with similar mental health ratings were split between anxious attachment and avoidant attachment.Interestingly enough, there was a clear division between the attachment styles when categorizing the relationships based on a dog’s mental well-being and potentially “unwanted” or “problem” behaviors. Dogs who demonstrated aggression or ADHD-like behavior were more likely to have avoidantly attached owners, while dogs who demonstrated fear-related behaviors were often connected to anxiously attached owners.What does all this mean? By recognizing the connection, we can better understand how personality and attachment styles can influence one another.For example, if a dog owner demonstrates avoidant attachment, they may not provide the security a dog desires in a potentially threatening situation. As a result, the dog may develop aggression. However, it is also possible that a dog’s aggressive response may contribute to an owner’s need for space and independence from the behavior and its impact on their daily activities.“What made this project unique was that it involved dogs, cats, and owners alike,” explained Professor Hannes Lohi. “We need a deeper understanding of the connections between owners and pets and the associated factors so we can, for example, help people make better decisions when obtaining a pet. It’s important to acknowledge that obtaining a pet while experiencing poor mental well-being may not necessarily meet the expectations of improving it.”Not only is this a big step forward in helping people make educated decisions about pet ownership, but it could also provide valuable guidance for trainers and behaviorists when dealing with unwanted behaviors.

Pregnant Dog Saved from Shipping Container by U.S. Coast Guard

Members of the U.S. Coast Guard Sector Houston-Galveston got a big surprise when they found a dog trapped inside a shipping container. While inspecting the containers, Lucas Loe, Bryan Wainscott, Jose Reyes, and Ryan McMahon heard scratching and barking coming from inside one of them. After bringing the container down to ground level—it had been roughly 25 feet up—they opened it to find an adorable dog desperate to get out.A Dog Rescued Against All OddsThe poor dog had been stuck in that container, which had junked vehicles and was set to be shipped overseas, for at least eight days without any food or water. How she got in there in the first place is a mystery, but they think she might’ve been in one of the cars that was put in the container.What makes this story even more incredible is the fact that there were thousands of shipping containers along with the one that the friendly dog was trapped in, so she’s very lucky that the inspectors heard her and rescued her in time. They named her Connie, and her story quickly went viral. She’s even referred to as Connie the Container Dog. A video posted on Facebook shows her rescue.According to a U.S. Coast Guard Heartland Facebook post, Connie was thrilled and grateful to be free, but she was also tired and hungry. She was taken to Pasadena Animal Shelter to be examined before being flown to Forever Changed Animal Rescue (FCAR) in the Washington, D.C. metro area. She was diagnosed with heartworm and was found to be underweight.A New Discovery: Connie the Container Dog Is PregnantAfter her rescuers noticed that Connie’s mammary glands were swollen, they worried that she’d given birth to and lost her puppies while she was trapped in the container. But an ultrasound revealed that she is indeed pregnant.Once she’s healed and ready to be adopted, Connie will be looking for a forever home. And her puppies will also be looking for homes once they’re old enough. In the meantime, she’ll stay with a veterinarian who will keep a close eye on her and make sure that she and her puppies are doing well.To keep up with Connie’s journey, you can follow FCAR’s Facebook page.You can also watch this video to see Connie and her rescuers:

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