Top 8 All-In-One Aquariums

by Kate Barrington

Published: April 15th, 2019

You want a fish tank, but you want everything you need in one package. Here’s our list of top 8 all-in-one aquariums.

Having a thriving aquarium in your home is a thing of beauty – it’ll certainly be a topic for discussion when you have people over. But there are many people who like the idea of having a home aquarium but don’t want to do all of the work researching the necessary equipment, shopping for the right models, and setting everything up. For those people, an all-in-one aquarium is a dream come true. Here’s our list of the top five all-in-one aquariums that you might want to consider.

The Best All-in-One Aquarium Models

There are many different options out there for all-in-one aquariums, but some are better than others. When shopping for an all-in-one aquarium you should avoid shopping by price alone because you might end up with a low-quality tank and shoddy equipment that will burn out after a few months. Do yourself a favor and spend a little more for a sturdy tank and high-quality equipment.

Here are some of the best all-in-one aquariums on the market:

biOrb Classic Aquarium Kit – Desktop aquariums are becoming increasingly popular and the biOrb Mega Aquarium Kit is one of the most popular models on the market. This all-in-one aquarium comes in a 15-gallon capacity with a 5-stage filtration system, air pump, and low-voltage lighting system – all you need to add is water and fish. It is available in several different colors and comes with a detailed instruction manual.

Fluval Sea Evo XII – Another popular option in desktop aquariums, the Fluval Flex 57 is the perfect way to cultivate a miniature reef display. This tank is 13.5 gallons in capacity and comes with a 3-stage filter, a high output reef-capable LED lighting system, and all of the other supplies you need to get started.
MarineLand Contour Glass Aquarium – Available in 3- and 5-gallon sizes, this stylish all-in-one aquarium comes with a hidden 3-step filtration system and an LED rail light unit with both daylight and moonlight settings. This aquarium is quick and easy to set up and features a sleek contour design that looks great on any desk, shelf, or countertop.

Coralife LED BioCube Aquarium – The BioCube aquarium is uniquely designed for nano reef tanks, equipped with color-enhancing LEDs as well as a 30-minute sunrise/sunset and 60-minute moonrise/moonset feature. It comes with a compact, customizable filtration chamber built-in to the aquarium and is compatible with all BioCube accessories. If you’re looking for a slightly larger all-in-one tank with customizable options, this is a great choice.
Fluval Flex 57 Glass Aquarium – Slightly larger than the Fluval Sea EVO aquarium, this 15-gallon nano tank features a powerful 3-stage filtration unit with oversized filter media for optimal water clarity. It comes with an integrated 7500K LED Lamb to support plant life and has a unique curved from to give it a distinctive, contemporary design. Plus, it comes with a remote control for custom lighting options.
Red Sea Max Nano Aquarium – This 20-gallon nano aquarium combines the sleek, contemporary look of a rimless aquarium with the most up-to-date technology. It comes with everything you need to create a thriving coral reef including Prime HD LED lighting, integrated Wi-Fi controls, and integrated filtration and circulation systems as well as an automatic top-off unit.
MarineLand 5-Gallon Portrait Aquarium – Another excellent option in nano tanks is this glass aquarium kit. Available in a desktop-friendly 5-gallon size, this aquarium is equipped with an advanced 3-stage filtration system with adjustable flow pump. It also comes with both white and blue LEDs in a hinged light with a sliding glass canopy for easy access to the tank.
SC Aquariums 50-Gallon Starfire Glass Aquarium – Not every all-in-one aquarium is a nano tank. This Starfire aquarium offers a generous 50-gallon capacity and comes with a heavy-duty cabinet and a rimless glass aquarium. It comes equipped with a filtration system, skimmer, and filter media so all you need to provide is the lighting system of your choice.

Just because an all-in-one aquarium comes with everything you need to setup your tank doesn’t mean that you won’t still have to do the work in maintaining it. Your tank filter will help to keep your tank water clean and the tank heater will warm it to the right temperature. But you’ll still need to do some basic maintenance to keep the water quality in your tank high for the health and safety of your fish.

Kate Barrington

Kate Barrington is the loving owner of two cats (Bagel and Munchkin) and a noisy herd of guinea pigs. Having grown up with golden retrievers, Kate has a great deal of experience with dogs but labels herself a lover of all pets. Having received a Bachelor's degree in English, Kate has combined her love for pets and her passion for writing to create her own freelance writing business, specializing in the pet niche.

More by Kate Barrington

BARK Air Introduces a New Flight Tailored for Dogs

View Article

Top 8 Best Aquarium Plants for Beginners

Welcome to the wonderful world of planted tanks! If you’re just getting started, we’ve gathered a list of eight aquarium plants that are great for beginners. If you are thinking about starting a planted tank but don’t know where to begin, take the time to do a little research. Many aquarium plants are hardy enough to withstand changes in water chemistry as you get used to maintaining a planted tank, but some are better than others. If you are new to the planted tank, consider some of the aquarium plant species discussed below. Top Aquatic Plants for Beginners Some aquatic plants will thrive in just about any conditions and those are the species that are best for beginners. While you are still figuring out how to maintain stable conditions in a planted tank you want to be sure that your plants won’t die out. If you stock your aquarium with hardy and resilient plant species, this will be less of an issue. You will find an overview of the best aquarium plants for beginners below: Amazon Sword: The Amazon Sword plant is by far the most popular choice for planted tanks, largely because it is so easy to grow. This plant only requires moderate lighting and it grows fairly quickly, providing background decoration as well as hiding places for timid fish. Amazon Sword plants can grow up to 20 inches long, producing long sword-like leaves in thick bunches. Related: Let’s Talk About Amazon Sword Plants Java Moss: If you are looking for a plant to use on the bottom of your planted tank, you can’t do better than Java moss. This plant is a fast-growing moss that does well when rooted in substrate or attached to driftwood. Java moss is very low-maintenance and it does well in all types of lighting. Not only does Java moss provide cover for baby fish, but it can also be a secondary food source. Anubias Nana: This aquatic plant is a great mid-ground plant because it only grows to be about 6 inches tall. Anubias nana produces oval-shaped leaves that are dark green in color. This plant requires only moderate lighting and it can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. Java Fern: Another excellent choice for low-maintenance aquatic plants is the Java fern. This plant produces long, bright green leaves that grow in thick bunches and it can be used in any area of the tank. Java fern grows very well in low to moderate lighting and it can tolerate temperatures as low as 68°F or as high as 82°F which makes it great for beginners. Related: How to Use Aquatic Mosses in Your Planted Tank Lilaeopsis: This plant only grows to about 2 inches tall but it spreads very quickly which makes it popular as a carpet plant. Lilaeopsis produces green grass-like leaves and it can be used as floor covering for your tank. This plant only requires moderate lighting and it grows well in a wide temperature range. African Water Fern: The African water fern does well as both a background and a foreground plant because it grows in very thick. This plant does well in low lighting or shade and it produces lush, feathery green leaves. African water fern thrives in most tank conditions and it is very low-maintenance. Water Wisteria: If you need a plant that grows quickly and requires very little maintenance, water wisteria is the way to go. This plant produces lace-like leaves and it grows well in moderate lighting – it also does well in a wide temperature range.Green Tiger Lotus: If you are looking for an aquatic plant with a unique appearance, Green Tiger Lotus is a great choice. This plant produces wide leaves that are primarily green in color with spots of red. Green Tiger Lotus does well in moderate lighting and it is a great background plant. Learning how to cultivate and maintain a thriving planted tank takes time. Not only do you have to be intentional about the substrate you choose and the water chemistry you maintain, but you also have to be careful which plant species you choose to grow. If you are new to the aquarium hobby or if you are starting your first planted tank, consider using some of the species discussed above.

Our Guide to the Best Nano Tanks

Short on space, but love fish? A nano tank may just fill that empty space in your home. Here are the best nano tanks we’ve found that’ll fit perfectly into your life. There is nothing more beautiful than a giant aquarium filled with lush green plants and brightly colored fish. As beautiful as it is, however, it takes up a great deal of space and can take a lot of work to maintain. If you like the idea of keeping an aquarium but you don’t have the time or space to accommodate a monster tank, a nano tank might be more your speed. If you’re looking to learn more about nano tanks or want to know what some of the best options are, you’ve come to the right place! Here you’ll learn everything you need to know about nano tanks before you start shopping – you’ll also see our top 10 picks for the best nano tanks. Related: Top 5 Freshwater Fish Species for Planted Tanks What Do You Need to Know About Nano Tanks? A nano tank is just what the name implies – an aquarium that comes in a miniature size. Technically, the term applies to tanks about 30 gallons or less, but don’t let the name fool you. Even a 10-pound tank can weigh over 100 pounds when completely full. Cultivating a nano tank can be an exciting challenge for any aquarium hobbyist, but there are a few things you need to know before you try: The best way to ensure success is to start with a nano kit – a tank that comes with the filtration, heating, and lighting systems you need to get started.You’ll need to be very mindful of where you place your nano tank. Small changes in temperature caused by exposure to direct sunlight or proximity to a cooling vent can have a greater impact in a small tank.Keep it simple. When it comes to choosing your tank inhabitants and your decoration plan, pick a theme and stick to it – this will make it easier to keep all of your tank parameters on target.Be very careful about overpopulating. You may be familiar with the old rule of one inch of fish per gallon, but even this could be too much for a nano tank. Stock only a few fish or corals over several weeks (or months) so the system has time to adjust.Include live plants as much as possible. Live plants are a much more valuable foundation for biological filtration than fake plants and they can help keep the water quality in your tank high.Use caution when choosing lighting. In a small tank, lighting systems that produce heat can wreak havoc on your tank – LED lights work well for nano tanks. In addition to knowing how to properly set up your nano tank, you also need to be proactive about maintenance. It actually takes more work to maintain a small tank than a large one because small changes can have a big impact. Related: Top 8 All-In-One Aquariums The Best Nano Tanks When shopping for a nano tank, you need to think about the type of tank you plan to cultivate. Some nano tanks are designed specifically for reef environments while others are more versatile. If you’re not sure, take a look at the options to get some ideas. Here are our top picks for the best nano tanks: Marineland Portrait 5-Gallon Aquarium Kit – Featuring integrated 3-stage filtration and a overhead LED, this 5-gallon aquarium kit is the perfect desktop tank. It comes with both blue and white LEDs to produce a shimmering daytime light and relaxing moonlight glow. Fluval Sea EVO XII 13.5-Gallon Kit – If you’re looking for something slightly larger or want to create a reef tank, this 13.5-gallon aquarium kit might be a better option. It features a stylish honeycomb design to conceal the filtration system and comes with a multi-functional canopy with an easy-feed door and sleek waterproof casing. Coralife LED Biocube Aquarium – Available in a 16- and 32-gallon size, this cube-shaped nano tank features a compact, built-in filtration system with a quiet submersible pump and bright LED lighting. It comes with an integrated 24-hour timing as well with three lighting channels. Tetra LED 3-Gallon Cube Aquarium – Another popular option in desktop aquariums is this 3-gallon cube from Tetra. It features a simple design with 360-degree viewing and comes with an LED overhead light and Tetra 3i filter to keep the tank clean for your fish. Marineland Contour 3-Gallon Aquarium Kit – Available in 3-gallon and 5-gallon sizes, this contoured glass aquarium kit is easy to set up and maintain. It comes with a hidden 3-step filtration system with adjustable flow filter pump as well as daylight and moonlight LEDs. Hagen HG Fluval Flex 15-Gallon Aquarium – Featuring a contemporary design and sleek, modern features this 15-gallon aquarium kit is designed for freshwater environments. It comes with an integrated multistage filtration system and 7500K LED lamp for bright illumination. All features are conveniently hidden to keep the look sleek and modern. Fluval Spec III 2.6-Gallon Aquarium Kit – Great for desktop use, this 2.6-gallon aquarium comes with a powerful 3-stage filtration system, a 31-light LED system, and the necessary filter media to get started. Simply choose your fish and your decorations! Hagen Marina 360-Degree Aquarium Kit – This nano tank clocks in at 2.65 gallons and it features a unique 36o-degree design that looks great from any angle. This tank comes with custom LED lighting and can be used for cold water or tropical fish. Penn Plax Vertex Desktop Aquarium Kit – Another miniature option in nano tanks, this 2.7-gallon tank features a unique bent glass and frameless design. It comes with a hang-on water filter, thermometer, and fish net so you have just about all you need to get started. Fluval Edge 6-Gallon LED Aquarium – If you’re looking for something a little bigger than 2.6 gallons, try this 6-gallon nano tank. It features a unique cube shape with the integrated filtration and lighting systems hidden in a decorative column. These are just a few of the options out there for nano tanks. If you don’t see one here that suits your vision, don’t be afraid to keep shopping. Just keep in mind the tips above to help you make a smart choice for yourself and your future tank inhabitants. We are committed to finding, researching, and recommending the best products. We earn commissions from purchases you make using the retail links in our product reviews. Learn more about how this works.

What Happens if Dogs Eat Cat Food?

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

Are Bengal Cats Really That Wild? Here's What Science Has to Say.

Bengal cats are a truly stunning feline breed, in many ways. According to the International Cat Association (TICA), they hold the title of being the most popular cat breed globally, and it doesn’t really come as a surprise. Their unique and exotic appearance, their unavoidable charm, and their slender physique are certainly the reason for this prestigious title. But even though they are popular, Bengal cats are a relatively new breed in the field of domesticated cats. While most ordinary domestic cat breeds have been around for thousands of years, Bengal cats have been around for less than a century, which comes as a stark contrast. They are a hybrid breed as well, having been created in the 1960s. They came about from the crossing of the domestic cat (Felis Catus), and the Asian Leopard cats (Prionailurus Bengalensis), which are a small, spotted, wild cat species living in Asia. What makes the combination unique is the fact that these two cat species had a common ancestor about 6 million years ago, which means that the genetic differences between them are incredible. The differences are even greater than between humans and chimpanzees!The resulting breed is the Bengal cat, and it is adored for its exotic appearance. It has special spots, just like ocelots or leopards. But most folks ascribe the unique coloration and patterns of these felines to the DNA they received from their wild and distantly related ancestors. And that’s why scientific folks paid special attention to the ancestry of Bengal cats. Greg Barsh, MD, Ph.D., Faculty Investigator at HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology and Professor of Genetics at Stanford University,  himself an expert in the genetics of feline coat coloration and patterning is a key figure in the research process of Bengal ancestry. Together with his team, which is led by Chris Kaelin, Ph.D., and Kelly McGowan, MD, Ph.D., Mr. Barsh is working hard towards unraveling Bengal ancestry through the genetics of popular color traits."Cats are wonderful companions," he explains for  Phys.org, "but our interests go beyond their beautiful and exotic appearance. Like the amazing variation among different dog breeds, artificial selection can be a very powerful engine to create morphologic diversity. What's different about Bengal cats from dogs is the raw genetic material–dogs trace their heritage to wolves from tens of thousands of years ago.""In contrast, Bengal cats trace their heritage to completely different species from millions of years ago. Understanding how these distantly related genomes interact is a general question that applies to any situation when different species exchange genes, from crops to aquaculture to humans and Neandertals."And even though this is a relatively new breed, started about 60 years ago by a few cat enthusiasts, it has grown incredibly during this time. Today, there are hundreds of thousands of registered Bengal cats, which are produced by about 2,000 breeders. Chris Kaelin, the leader of the Bengal cat DNA study, said “Cat fanciers and breeders are very interested in the research, in part because they want to know more about the science behind artificial selection, and in part, because they want to know if our results can help them produce cats with rosettes, stripes, or other exotic markings.” He also added "This is a great example of citizen science–our work has been enabled by the willingness of breeders to participate, and we share our results with the community."One of the surprising discoveries that was produced from the study is that Asian Leopard DNA contributes no more than a few percent to the overall Bengal Cat DNA. In fact, it is revealed that there isn’t one or even a few Asian leopard genes that are causing the unique spotted Bengal appearance. "One of the original motivations for bringing together DNA from the two species was to select for Asian leopard DNA that would recapitulate the appearance of an exotic wild cat in a companion animal," said Kaelin. "It turns out that some of the most striking examples of selection in the breed are for traits that were already present, but very rare, in domestic cats."So, the study reveals that the Bengals are in many ways totally unique. Mixing the two very unique breeds resulted in a cat that is exotic, elegant, charming, and above all loveable. And now, the results published are providing valuable information to all the enthusiasts in love with the Bengal breed. 

What Do I Do if My Dog Has a Chipped Tooth?

Discovering that your dog is hurt or in pain is a concerning moment for any pet parent, regardless of the injury. But dental injuries can be particularly stressful. If you have ever experienced a toothache, you understand!Whether your pup chipped a tooth during a rough play session with their best furry friend or while gnawing on a hard chew like a bone or antler, any dental damage must be addressed promptly.Read on to learn how to prioritize your dog’s dental health, including identifying if they may be suffering from a broken or chipped tooth, how to address dental damage and tips for preventing a broken tooth before it happens. Your pup will thank you!Common Signs of a Broken or Chipped ToothThe first step to caring for dental problems is to identify that your dog is experiencing an issue. The signs of dental problems vary considerably. While some dogs won’t show any discomfort, others may demonstrate considerable pain. This is due not only to the difference in a dog’s personality and pain threshold but also the spectrum of injuries that fall under the heading of “dental problems.”Broken teeth can be categorized into three groups:Enamel Fractures: Damage only to the enamel of the tooth.Crown Fractures: Damage extends deeper into the tooth, breaking the crown and exposing the pulp.Root Fractures: The root of the tooth has been broken.Unless you inspect your dog’s teeth regularly and spot a problem, we often have to rely on body language and behavioral changes to know there’s a problem. Unfortunately, dogs are very good at hiding pain, so they may be suffering from a problem for a while before we’re aware that there is an issue.Some of the more common signs of a broken or chipped tooth include:Excessive droolingBloody salivaPawing at their muzzleChewing on one side of the mouthReluctancy to eat and kibble or harder-to-chew itemsRefusal to eat at allAvoiding drinking cold waterGrinding teethSwelling in the faceDiscomfort or reluctance to have muzzle touchedWhining or whimpering Not playing as they would normally Sudden or out-of-character aggressive or anxious behaviorTrembling or shaking

Technology Tracking Dogs Really Are a Thing

We’ve all heard of dogs that can sniff out drugs and explosives or locate missing persons from a simple whiff of their clothing… but what’s all this about technology trackers? Can I seriously teach my pooch to hunt down the TV remote that went missing over the weekend? Actually, it’s not that kind of technology. You see, this highly specialized dog is trained to detect a compound called triphenylphosphine oxide (TPPO) and with a dog’s approximately 400 million olfactory receptors (humans have closer to 50 million) these super sleuths can smell that stuff through pocket material, duffle bags, a shoe insole, and even drywall. Now, if you’re wondering what TPPO is, it’s the compound used to cover circuit boards in storage devices ranging from hard drives to USB sticks, memory cards and even those tiny SIM cards that store data on our cellphones. Essentially, it’s the all-important coating that prevents these gadgets from overheating and because of that, it’s a compound that will never not be present on electronic devices.But as to why this specific training is growing in K9 units worldwide you need to consider the increase in cyber-terrorism. From drug and human trafficking to child pornography and weapons offences, the need to locate a criminal’s “tools of the trade” such as computers, burner phones, and hard drives is essential to securing a successful conviction. And while internet use and location trackers have made it easy to trail an individual, many perpetrators now work on darknets – an overlay that uses the internet but requires special software for the person to access illicit data.Of course, even a darknet involves a computer system and that’s where the TPPO-sniffing pooch steps up to the plate. Find the perp and let this specially trained K9 agent track down the concealed storage system. I mean, when you’re dealing with something as easily hidden as a SIM card, having a secret furry weapon that detects the scent, then sits, barks and wags his tail saves a heck of a lot of time.Truth is, technology-tracking dogs are becoming more and more common in the execution of this type of warrant because police often get just one shot at finding the much-needed evidence. No surprise that the best dogs for this type of work tend to be the usual suspects – Labrador retrievers because of their heightened sensory skills, innate hunting traits and their gentle disposition – important if there are younger family members present during a search. Other faves include the stately Belgian Malinois and German Shepherd dogs for their tenacity and handler loyalty. I’m not convinced my Schnoodles would rank but as with most family pooches, they’re ace at hunting down an errant chip between the sofa cushions… and that’s good enough for me.

Pet Safety Tips for the Holiday Season

The holiday season is here, and you’re probably excited about everything that this festive time of year has to offer. But even though you might be focused on being with the people you love, eating delicious food, and sharing gifts, it’s important to also consider the effects the holidays can have on your pets.To help you enjoy a safe and happy holiday season with your furbabies, here’s a list of holiday safety tips for pets.

Finally Home Retirement Home: A Place Where All Senior Dogs Are Loved

In a world in which the adoption rate for senior dogs is lower than for all other age groups combined, we need more people like Laurie Dorr. In 2019, Dorr and her husband founded Finally Home Senior Dog Rescue and Retirement Home to provide a loving forever home to abandoned senior dogs.Located in North Yarmouth, Main, Dorr’s five-acre estate is currently home to 15 grey-muzzled seniors. This amazing non-profit organization is run by Dorr and her husband with the help of a handful of volunteers and supporters all of whom have the same goal - to make old dogs feel loved till the end. Dorr adopts senior dogs that need homes, mostly from shelters or older people moving into nursing homes. “Our dogs come mainly from owners here in Maine who can no longer care for their pups due to unforeseen circumstances,” said Dorr to Newsweek. The thing that sets Finally Home apart from other non-profit rescue organizations is that it doesn’t adopt out any of its dogs, but it gives them their own retirement home. “The dogs are adopted into our home, and remain here until it is their time to pass on,” explained Dorr. “We provide them with excellent veterinary care, food, treats, bedding, and everything else they so desperately need, including our love and the love of all awesome friends and volunteers who help to keep them happy and healthy.”However, Dorr’s noble work on behalf of senior dogs doesn’t end there. She has set up two funds named after Teddy and Sierra, two very special dogs who have died. These funds are there to help dog owners in need (who are below 150% of the federal poverty guidelines) and can’t pay for their older dog’s medical bills. “Most people want puppies or younger dogs,” said Dorr. “Senior dogs often have been passed around many times and are often overlooked at shelters. That’s why I’m focusing on seniors.” According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), approximately 3.1 million dogs end up in shelters across the U.S. every year. Around 390,000 shelter dogs are euthanized each year.Evidence showed that older cats and dogs are particularly at risk for euthanasia at shelters because people are less likely to adopt a senior pooch. Sadly, older dogs are the last ones to get adopted and have a 25% adoption rate, compared to the 60% adoption rate of puppies and younger dogs. Dorr, who has always been a dog lover, said that she likes all dogs, but has a soft spot for those that have been around for a while. Taking care of so many senior dogs is time-consuming, even for a retiree, but Dorr, along with her friends and selfless volunteers, is doing everything to keep her dogs happy.“We take the dogs for car rides and to local trails and parks, and recently took the dogs to Range Pond State Park for some fun in the water,” Dorr said. “The dogs loved the beach and wooded trails and had some special snacks there as well.” The dogs’ day on the beach was captured in heartwarming footage that was posted on Finally Home's Facebook page.“I have always loved animals and wanted to help senior dogs by taking them in if needed, and caring for them. It was one of those things where I said ‘one day’ or ‘someday’ I will do it. Finally, I decided that I had to do it while I was still young and healthy enough, so I would not miss out on my dream. I am so glad that I decided to do this.”

Top 10 Dumbest Dog Breeds

View Gallery

FDA Approves New Treatment for Anxiety and Fear in Cats

It’s no secret that most cats get really stressed out when they have to leave the house, especially for a trip to the veterinarian. And the anxiety and fear that your pet experiences can certainly affect you as a pet parent as well, making you feel awful about having to put your cat through such a scary experience.The good news is there are things you can try to help reduce the stress your kitty feels, and one of the latest solutions is a new treatment recently approved by the FDA.Bonqat for CatsIn November 2023, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved pregabalin, also known as Bonqat, for cats.The oral solution is not a sedative; instead, it affects the neurotransmitters that are involved in acute anxiety and fear. Therefore, it can be used to reduce the stress experienced by cats who are being transported for any reason, and it can be helpful for those who get frightened when they go to the vet.To determine if this medicine would be effective, cats were given either a placebo or Bonqat before being transported by car and examined by a veterinarian (the cats had a history of being fearful and/or anxious under those circumstances). The results? While roughly one-third of the kitties who got the placebo had a positive response, just over half of those given the medicine did better while being transported and examined. Also, over the course of two examinations, 77% of the kitties who took Bonqat had less fear and anxiety, while 46% of those given the placebo exhibited an improvement in their fear and anxiety levels.Discuss Bonqat with Your VeterinarianYou can only get Bonqat with a prescription from your veterinarian, so discuss its pros and cons to determine if this medicine would be right for your cat based on factors like age and medical conditions. And bear in mind that side effects, such as ataxia, vomiting, and lethargy, might occur with Bonqat.To reap the benefits of Bonqat, you simply give it to your cat about 1.5 hours prior to transporting them or taking them to the vet. This medicine is a liquid, and it can be given to your pet with a bit of food.Also, there are some precautions that need to be taken while administering this medicine to your cat. For example, it shouldn’t make contact with your eyes, mucous membranes, or skin. So, in addition to talking to your vet about how to use it correctly to ensure your cat gets the best results, you also want to be well-informed about how to handle this medicine safely.For more information about Bonqat and how it works, click here.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Cat Chattering: What Is It and What Does It Mean?

Cats communicate with each other and their humans in a variety of ways through vocalizations and body language. While you may be able to figure out what your cat is saying when they meow or hiss, you might be at a loss for an explanation when you see them chatter for the first time, especially if you’ve never seen cats do this before.What does it mean when cats chatter? Check out the information below to learn all about it so you’ll be able to figure out what your kitty is thinking and feeling the next time you see them exhibit this odd behavior.What Is Chattering in Cats?Chattering usually happens when a kitty sees something that they want to get their paws on. Many times, they’ll be looking out the window when a prey animal, like a chipmunk or bird, comes into view. Or, if your kitty spends time in a catio or outdoor enclosure, they might start chattering when they see small wildlife. As soon as your cat sees their intended prey, they may be ready to go on the hunt, and might express this feeling by chattering.This behavior doesn’t only happen when your kitty sees wildlife, though. It can also happen when you’re using a toy to play with them. The movement of the toy can get them excited and ready to pounce on their “prey,” and they might chatter as a result.Once you know what cat chattering looks like, you’ll be able to recognize it right away. But if you’ve never seen it before, it can be described simply as your cat making quick movements with their jaw, showing their teeth while staring intently at their target. Sometimes, no sounds will come out, but other times, they’ll make chirping sounds or even little meows. Some people even describe chattering as “ekekek”.To see what it looks like, here’s a compilation of cats chattering:

Never Scoop Again With Litter-Robot, The Purrfect Gift For Cat Lovers

Cats like a clean litter box just as much as cat owners do, but scooping clumps can be a hassle. Whisker’s Litter-Robot, the highest-rated, self-cleaning litter box for cats, eliminates the need to scoop the litter box. The newest model, Litter-Robot 4, provides a clean bed of litter for your cats after every use. It features patented sifting technology that sifts out waste after every use and deposits it into a tightly-sealed waste drawer, helping to keep odor under control. For Black Friday, you can scoop one up for less, with $75 off bundles with the Purrfect Litter-Robot accessories you will want.What Sets the Litter-Robot Apart? Litter-Robot 4 features an advanced, patented, sifting technology with QuietSift™ for nearly-silent sifting. That’s right, you don’t have to scoop and you don’t hear the litter being sifted. What could be better?

Are Collagen Chews Good for Dogs?

Are you searching for a tasty treat to keep your pup occupied? Have you heard the warnings made by experts about the potential dangers of rawhide chews and are struggling to find a healthy alternative for your dog? A newer type of dog chew is gaining popularity in the pet world, beloved both by pets and their parents alike. Let’s discuss the benefits of collagen chews and why this would be a great option for your dog. What Are Collagen Chews? Before we get into the benefits, we’ll start with the basics. What exactly is a collagen chew? Like rawhide, a collagen chew is a dried animal product. However, it is made from the inner layer of a cow's skin instead of the hide. This may seem like a minor difference, but it makes the product much easier to digest, making it safer for pet parents concerned about the risk of obstructions associated with rawhide. Collagen chew products are available in various forms, including flat chews, sticks, traditional bone shapes, and rings. Each variation of the chew ranges in size, thickness, and, therefore, chew difficulty level. Do Vets Recommend Collagen Sticks? Yes! Many veterinarians recommend collagen chews as a healthy alternative to rawhide. This healthy and natural chew option offers many health benefits, including joint issues and dry skin. Most collagen chews are made from all-natural ingredients and are free from fillers, artificial colors, and artificial flavors, making them a healthy replacement for your dog’s favorite rawhide bones.Is Collagen Better Than Rawhide? While both collagen chews and rawhides are long-lasting chew options, collagen chews address many of the health concerns related to rawhide. If your dog loves rawhide chews, this is a great alternative. Like rawhides, collagen chews are long-lasting. However, if your dog swallows a portion of the chew, its digestibility makes it less likely that you will find yourself at an emergency vet paying for surgery to remove an obstruction.

Is a Cat Tree Necessary for My Cat?

When you first bring home a new cat, it’s an exciting time – especially if you’re a first-time cat parent. However, amidst the excitement, there are many questions that may be holding you back from fully embracing the joy. Are you prepared to meet all your cat’s needs? Are there “must-have” items you have overlooked? The struggle is real! We have good news… Many of the items that are deemed “necessary” are actually optional. One such item is the traditional cat tree or cat scratcher. Do they offer benefits? Yes! Can they help to improve your cat’s mental and physical health? Yes! But is a cat tree necessary for your cat? No, it’s not. There are other ways you can meet your cat’s needs if your budget or space doesn’t allow for a large piece of cat furniture. Let’s dig into the truth about cat trees and your cat. What is the Point of Cat Trees? If you’re currently standing in your local pet store, looking over the wide assortment of cat furniture available, you may wonder – what exactly is the purpose of cat furniture? Is it just a fancy bed solution for your cat, or are there other considerations when these products are developed? It’s an honest question I often hear from first-time cat parents. After all, these large, elaborate structures often come with a hefty price tag. If they do nothing more than provide a place to sleep, wouldn’t a simple cat bed suffice? Cat furniture is designed to meet many of your cat’s instincts, including their need to scratch, hide, climb, and oversee their surroundings. Each type of cat furniture has its benefits to consider.

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

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

Do Cats Slow Down in Autumn?

As the sunshine starts to fade, replaced by the cool autumn winds, cat owners may notice an interesting change in their furry friend’s behavior. Cats are often known for their boundless energy and curiosity. However, as we move into the fall months, many cat owners will notice their pets are slowing down into a new, more laid-back routine.In this article, we dig into the reasons why cats slow down in autumn, including answering the question: “Do cats experience seasonal depression?” We will also share some tips and tricks to cheer up your sad cat and help them enjoy the colder months ahead.Do Cat Behaviors Change with the Seasons?The short answer is yes. Many cat owners report that their feline friends act differently during the fall and winter months. Some common changes include a difference in your cat’s sleep patterns, appetite, and overall mood.For outdoor cats or indoor cats that are leash and harness-trained, the arrival of a new season means new experiences, including new smells, sights, and sounds. Anytime cats are faced with something new or different, the possibility exists that their reaction to their environment may change as well. But this isn’t the only impact on your cat…From season to season, we see two key changes affecting a cat’s behavior – the temperature and the amount of daylight. A drop in temperature triggers a natural survival response in which your cat will slow down to conserve energy, allowing its ancestors to stay warm on the bitter cold nights in the wild. Meanwhile, a change in daylight has been shown to impact hormone levels.Each of these factors will impact every cat differently. If you have multiple cats in your home, you may notice one slowing down considerably while the other doesn’t alter their behavior much at all – and that’s okay! Just like people, no two cats are the same.Can Cats Get Seasonal Depression?There currently is no research confirming that cats suffer from seasonal depression. However, many experts suspect they may suffer from a similar struggle to their human counterparts because of the shorter days and loss of daylight. This low mood and depression may also occur due to (or be escalated by) the lack of exercise that cats experience during the colder months.Are Cats Less Active in Fall? Have you noticed your cat lazing around or sleeping more during the autumn months? If so, you’re not alone! As we previously discussed, the temperature change often triggers a survival response to conserve energy. Your cat may prefer to spend their time curled up in their favorite cat bed, napping through the day, or cuddling in your lap, soaking up your body heat. Keep your eyes open for any other signs of concern. But if you do not see any other reason to worry, the cozy fall attitude is normal. Enjoy the extra cuddle time with your best friend. How Can I Tell if My Cat is Depressed? As cat parents, we all want to provide the best life for our feline friends, both physically and mentally. This starts with learning to recognize when something is “off” or if there is something that we should address. Like us, our cats can suffer from mental health struggles like depression, which isn’t always easy to spot. Here are a few signs your cat may be suffering from depression: Sleeping more than usualLoss of appetite Weight loss Becoming more vocal Failure to keep up with grooming needs Loss of energy Hiding or retreating from family membersOut-of-character aggression or fearfulness If you notice any of these signs, contact your veterinarian and discuss your concerns. They will likely ask questions about your cat’s home life and whether they have recently experienced any changes that may have triggered their mental health struggles. This can help to guide their treatment recommendations. Mental health problems are not always treated with medications. In fact, many of the most effective treatment options are things that you can do at home.

After 5 Long Years, a Lost Senior Dog is Reunited With His Owner

It seems that year is off to a good start in Sharonville, Ohio, where a true miracle happened for a hopeful pawrent. A Butler County woman named Hannah experienced immense relief and happiness after she was reunited with her long-lost doggo, at the annual My Furry Valentine adoption event in Sharonville. Will, Hannah’s wonderful Golden Retriever buddy had been missing for five years, after he wandered away from home in October 2019. Devastated, Hannah and her family searched for days and weeks for Will, but without success. In the end, fearing the worst, they had to let go of their wavering hopes.But incredibly, much to their amazement, their hopes were rekindled. They spotted a stray dog photo posted out of Clermont County – the resemblance to Will was uncanny. Hannah quickly sent a Facebook message to the nonprofit Clear the Clermont County Animal Shelter, inquiring about the dog - apparently named Rome. After a brief explanation, she said she believed it was none other than her beloved Will. 

Lost Service Dog Survived 2 Months Alone in the Colorado Mountains

It’s every dog parent’s nightmare. 14-month-old service dog in training Nova Riley slipped out of her harness and bolted out of a Safeway parking lot in a panic. After several sightings by the community as they searched tirelessly alongside owner Robynne Simons-Sealy, Nova continued to run in fear from anyone who attempted to catch her. After two long months of worrying and searching, Simons-Sealy was reunited with her beloved Bernese Mountain Dog. Nova was discovered injured in the woods of Meyers Ranch Park by two hikers on November 19th. The hikers recognized that she was injured, frightened, and needed help. They tried to carry her out to safely, but due to her high anxiety (understandable, given the situation), she bit one of her rescuers. Refusing to leave the poor dog behind, they decided to bring in help. One hiker stayed with Nova to keep her calm and assure her they weren’t giving up on her. The other hiker descended the trail to ask the park rangers for help and guide them, along with Animal Control Officer Kylie Rupe, three miles back to her position. “When we first got up there, I had brought treats and food up with me, knowing she would probably be very food-motivated at that point,” explained Rupe. “I used food to make friends, and she was very friendly but skittish.” With the help of both the rangers and animal control, Nova was carried to safety on a tarp. One of the rangers had recognized Nova from a lost dog poster, allowing her to be reunited with her worried and ever-grateful owner.

Top stories

Top 8 All-In-One Aquariums

BARK Air Introduces a New Flight Tailored for Dogs

What Are Dogs Allergic To In The Spring?

Top stories

Top 8 All-In-One Aquariums

Related articles