Best Cat Litter

by Patrick

Published: January 21st, 2019

No one likes talking about pet pee and poop, but, when you’re a pawrent, you get used to discussing dirty details. When it comes to scooping the poop after your feline friend, you’ve faced with an overwhelming variety of choices: what type of litter boxes are best for cats, which kind of litter should you get, do you need litter mats or enclosures to keep your kitty happy?

PetGuide.com has all the answers. Read our guides and reviews for information on anything from choosing safe and efficient cat litter, to picking out a litter box and all the handy “accessories” that can go with it. Learn about special litters that can be used for cats affected by chronic urinary tract issues, as well as the latest innovative litter products that wowed us with their ingenuity! We’ll help you put together a feline toilet that will definitely be up to your pampered pet’s standards.

Best Cat Litter
Features
Available At
Dr. Elsey’s Cat Ultra Premium Clumping Cat Litter

- Hypo-allergenic, contains no plant proteins, perfumes, or deodorants.

- Multi-cat formula and superior odor control keeps your home smelling clean and fresh day in and day out.

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Fresh Step Multi-Cat Scented Litter

- Specially formulated for multi-cat litter boxes, this cat litter has a 10-day odor control guarantee with activated charcoal that traps and eliminates kitty litter odor.

- For cleaner surfaces and clearer air, a low dust formula with paw activated fragrance that’s released every time your cats use the litter box.

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Arm & Hammer Clump & Seal Platinum Litter

- 100% dust-free Platinum formula.

- Patented formula seals and destroys odors on contact. Rock hard clumps.

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World’s Best Cat Litter Multiple Cat Clumping Formula

- Outstanding odor control.

- Flushable and septic safe.

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Purina Tidy Cats Clumping Cat Litter

- Locks away strong ammonia, urine and fecal smells.

- Absorbs moisture to keep cats comfortable.

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Types of Cat Litter

When it comes to cats and their potty needs, the most important product is, naturally, litter itself. Cats are notoriously picky about everything, but it’s especially true when it comes to their litter preferences. You might get the most expensive litter on the market, but what does it matter if your cat turns up their nose at it and starts peeing and pooping all over the place in protest? While there’s no sure fire way to know which type of cat litter your spoiled feline will like the most without actually trying them all out, there are some general unwritten rules about the litter that can help you decide.

Most cats will prefer unscented clumping clay litter, which is your basic, standard kitty litter that you can find anywhere. But, not only that this non-biodegradable litter is not eco-friendly, there are some controversial safety concerns surrounding it. At PetGuide.com, you can read all about the pros and cons of clumping litter and see if clumping litter dangers are just a myth or are there some truth to the claims.

Additionally, you can learn all about alternatives to standard litter, such as non-clumping clay or the popular silica gel litter. Of course, you don’t have to limit yourself to these groups alone, as they are also cat litters made from natural materials you can choose from. Some of the more common types include those made from recycled materials, such as paper or pine, and they’re mostly pellet shaped. Our insightful reviews will help you decide, based on your cat’s potty habits and your own poop scooping preferences, which type of cat litter to get for your pet.

Choosing the Right Cat Litter

While the choice of cat litter might be the most complex one, it’s not the only one you’ll need to make when it comes to the management of your cat’s waste (if you want to make poop scooping sound fancy, that is). Your kitty might approve of the litter you chose, but how about the vessel that holds it?

Cat Litter Boxes

The litter box is not only important to your pet, though, as the design, size, and models of litter boxes vary greatly, and not all of them will go with your interior decor. When it comes to what your cat needs, your choice comes down to any of the standard litter boxes that are appropriate for their size (most come in fit-all dimensions) – you can get them a litter box with a lid or without it, with high sides or standard sizes.

You’ll learn all about the differences between litter boxes here at PetGuide.com, so it won’t be hard deciding on the best material or model. However, at first glance, most litter boxes are, well, unsightly. Sure, the design of your cat’s toilet might not be something that interests you, but if you’d want for your kitty’s litter not to stick out as a sore thumb in your living space, litter box enclosures are a way to go. In case you don’t know what litter box enclosures are, these are custom made enclosures (usually from wood), that are used to hide the litter box from plain sight. There are litter box enclosures that fit any interior decor style, from shabby chic to sleek and modern- and you’ll find the best ones right here in PetGuide.com’s buying guides.

Cat Litter Accessories

With the bigger items out of the way, the last products you’ll need are litter “accessories”, such as a good litter scoop or a mess-preventing litter mat. There are literally hundreds of litter scoops available, from stylish metal ones to flimsy plastic ones that cost less than a buck. Make sure you know which of the litter scoops will make cleaning up after your cat less messy and more efficient by factoring in the type of litter you use and choosing one of the top-rated, high-quality scoopers. As for the inevitable mess your kitty will make while trying to bury their poop or pee, you can rely on litter mats to make sure your feline doesn’t spread it all over the place.

Once you’ve managed to put together a kitty toilet worthy of royalty, you’ll just need to make sure your cat actually uses it. Fortunately, PetGuide.com’s experts have tips and advice to offer, on everything from how to make the switch from your cat’s old litter or choosing the best location for the litter box itself. No matter how spoiled or finicky your feline is, we have a trick that will get them to poop and pee where you want them to! And, in the meantime, we’ve reviewed best urine detectors for cats, as well as odor and stain removers, just in case you need to locate and get rid of that horrible pee smell. Hey, nobody said that there be no bumps (or puddles) on the road, so it’s best to be armed with proper tools!

Patrick

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What Is The Best Cat Litter For Your Kitty?

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

Best Cat Nail Clippers

Most cats don’t like having their claws clipped, but you need to keep your kitty’s nails at a comfortable length. Trimming your cat’s nails regularly can prevent the claws from getting stuck in the carpets or furniture and stop your cat from scratching people. If your kitty isn’t sharpening their nails, the nails can also become too long and get embedded in the paw pads, which can cause an infection and be extremely painful for your cat.If taking your kitty to the veterinarian or groomer for regular manis and pedis isn’t an option, you can trim their nails at home using cat nail clippers. Nail clippers for cats are available in many different styles, but not all of them work in the same way. What the best type of nail clipper for your cat will depend on the size of your cat and your experience level. To help you find the best cat nail clippers for your kitty, we hand-picked 10 different nail clippers for cats. From scissor-style clippers to pliers and guillotines, you can’t go wrong with choosing any from our list.

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?

Best Cat Spray Deterrent

You might love your kitty to bits but that doesn’t have to mean that they get free reign of the house – some areas might need to be restricted for them, either for their own safety or to keep your possessions intact. As you probably already know, some cats, due to various reasons, may begin to display some destructive behavior. This can include chewing on items, scratching things (and people), spraying urine to mark territory, or generally causing a ruckus. Besides all this, the cats are endlessly inquisitive. They will want to snoop everywhere, especially in places that seem tucked away or off-limits. In order to successfully counter such behavior, you will need a reliable cat spray deterrent. It is a simple but super-efficient solution that will ensure your destructive little kitten doesn’t get into trouble or ruins your valuable possessions. Here’s our pick of the 10 best cat spray deterrent products to keep your feline on her best behavior!

Best Cat Screens for Windows

Cats are notoriously curious and that tends to get them into trouble a lot, so it doesn’t come as a surprise that their owners have to constantly come up with ways to keep their kitties safe. If you have an indoor-only cat, they might try to venture outside in search of adventure, but if they are not outdoor-savvy or you live in a high-traffic area or neighborhood with a lot of dogs, they might get seriously injured. One of the most common ways cats escape out is through a window – when the weather is nice, you’re probably going to want to keep your window open, and your kitty is going to take that chance to bolt. This is where cat screens for windows come into play as literal lifesavers!Cat screens for windows are tough enough to be cat-proof and stand up to claws and climbing, so there’s no risk of your cat breaking through this barrier, which can happen with flimsier nets that are designed to keep only insects out. To help you find the perfect match, we’ve selected the 10 best cat screens for windows – read on to learn more!

Are Dogs Smarter than Cats?

The rivalry between cats and dogs is an age-old thing. Many pet owners are divided in their affections, as some adore kitties, but others are strictly doggo lovers. And this rivalry poses an intriguing question – could there be a difference between cats and dogs? While both are cuddly and loveable, they are inevitably different. So, could it be possible that  dogs are smarter than cats, or vice versa? This is a popular question in the scientific world, and many tried answering it. Let’s see what they came up with.Are Dogs Smarter than Cats? For ages, the debate on the rivalry between cats and dogs has been ongoing. Ultimately, however, it all depends on how you define “smart”. Dogs are often loved for their obedience, their ability to be trained and follow commands, their unwavering loyalty, and their excellent guardian traits. Cats, on the other hand, are known for their independence, their adaptability and problem-solving skills, their free and restless spirit, and their cuddly nature. So, as we can see, while generally different in personalities, both of these animals possess certain cognitive skills – but is one smarter than the other?Recent studies have revealed that both dogs and cats possess unique cognitive abilities suited to their respective lifestyles and evolutionary histories. Meaning, they are completely different animals. Dogs, for example, originated from domesticated canines, far, far back in history. They were bred over thousands of years to work alongside humans, protect flocks, help with hunting, and guard homes. This, in turn, has likely influenced their ability to understand and communicate with us, and to be so devoted as pets. But cats are different. In stark contrast to doggos, cats have retained more of their wild instincts, allowing them to thrive in a variety of environments and situations.All of this means that you can’t really compare the intelligence of a cat and that of a dog. It’s like comparing apples and oranges – it just doesn’t go. Each animal excels in different areas and possesses different strengths. It's more accurate to appreciate the unique qualities of each species rather than trying to determine which one is "smarter."But even so, scientists tried to reach a decisive conclusion. They studied both cats and dogs and ultimately reached an answer - at least, scientifically speaking. Their research shows that dogs are smarter than cats! Some of you might find this answer surprising but don’t raise a revolt just yet. Cats are super intelligent even so. It’s just that they are likely not as smart as some dogs are. The secret is in “smartness” itself. Dogs are intelligent in their own way. They are generally more reliant on humans for problem-solving tasks, but they are adept at learning from observation and experience. They can also be trained to perform a wide range of tasks, from simple tricks to complex behaviors, such as guiding the visually impaired or detecting explosives. Cats, however, are natural hunters and possess excellent problem-solving skills. They are known for their agility, stealth, and ability to strategize when stalking their prey. In a domestic setting, cats demonstrate problem-solving abilities when navigating obstacles, finding hiding spots, and even manipulating objects to access food or toys. So, both of them have different positive traits and different types of intelligence. But it could be that dogs, with their ability to learn and obey commands, are just a tad bit smarter.

Dogs Trained to Detect Ancient Remains Expedite Search for Graves

Canada’s recent discovery of hundreds of tiny unmarked graves attributed to the residential school system has created not only cross-country outrage but also a determination to locate and repatriate the remains of all children who left home to attend these schools but never returned.Within a few weeks, the number of unmarked graves throughout Canada had quickly grown to over 10,000 and the ability to locate and identify additional sites (that would date back decades), had become almost impossible. Particularly since many of the schools had since been razed and pinpointing potential burial areas leaned heavily toward guesswork.The search had to be done respectfully – meaning without the use of large, excavation equipment – however, the need to cover a vast range of land in a timely manner was a challenge.That’s when the search teams decided to bring in the dogs.Part of the Ottawa Valley Search and Rescue Dog Association, German Shepherds, Recce and Taz are proficient in detecting older, archeological remains with drill work that has included using older cemeteries as their training ground. In fact, Historic Human Remains Detection Dogs have been used throughout North America and Europe to identify human remains in archaeological sites that date back hundreds of years… and longer. These dogs can pick up on the much lower scent levels that come from teeth and bones found in ancient graves… and some are even explicitly trained to detect cremated remains where no bones or teeth remain.This switch from bulldozers to the canine duo is a change welcomed by the area’s former residential school students who feel that because dogs have always been part of the Indigenous culture, they offer a natural, more appropriate approach to finding the missing children.According to Archaeology Professor Adrian Burke, dogs make a great option because they are non-invasive. Although it’s not an exact science – they can’t pinpoint an individual grave - they can hone in on a location and this saves time and the need for random digging. Once dogs flag a site, Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) is used to confirm what lies beneath.By adding Recce and Taz to the search teams, it’s estimated the time needed to cover a couple of acres can be reduced from a few weeks to just a couple of days.While the process is still slow and time-consuming, Indigenous residents confirm it’s about the children’s families understanding what happened to their little ones, being able to bring them home for appropriate burial, and ultimately experiencing a sense of closure and justice.

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

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

Why is My Rabbit Eating Poop and How Do I Stop It?

It’s a weird and uncomfortable habit, but if your rabbit is eating poop, it may not be a sign of health issues! In fact, for rabbits, eating poop may actually be a healthy decision (even if we’d prefer not to see it).In this article, we’re diving into the mystery of why rabbits eat poop, including why you may want to let your rabbit engage in this “cringey” habit. Plus, we’ll look at the warning signs that something is, indeed, off and when you should contact your veterinarian.Let’s get started…Is it Normal for a Rabbit to Eat Their Poop?Obviously, seeing your rabbit eating their own feces isn’t something any rabbit parent enjoys. If this is your first time seeing your rabbit engaging in this behavior, it may even cause serious concerns. What could possibly be so wrong with your rabbit’s system that they would feel tempted to do that? You may be surprised to learn that this is incredibly common and, in many cases, a regular part of their digestive process. By eating a specific type of poop, they ensure that they are getting (and keeping) all the nutrients that they need to support a healthy, happy life. The idea of chowing down on our own waste is disgusting to us. But for our furry friends, this is a normal part of their daily routine. Rabbit Poop vs Cecotropes To better understand the connection between poop eating and your rabbit’s health, we need to learn about the different types of rabbit waste. More specifically, we need to know about cecotropes. When we go to the bathroom, we have one type of solid waste – a material we couldn’t imagine getting near, let alone making into a meal. Rabbits, however, pass two different types of droppings. The first is fecal waste or poop. If your rabbit has a healthy, functioning digestive system, these will be small, round, dry, ball-like pellets that are light brown. This is often found in your rabbit’s litter box (if they are litter-trained) or the bottom of their cage.The second and the most important type of droppings are cecal pellets or cecotropes. These have the appearance of a small bunch of grapes with several round pellets clumped together. They are shiny, coated in mucus, and usually dark brown/mulberry color. The mucus is sticky, which could cause the cecotropes to pick up a layer of hay, wood shavings, or fur from their environment. While feces is the body’s way of discarding everything your body doesn’t need from your food, aka the ‘waste,’ cecotropes are a little different. These pellets contain partially digested foods that passed through your rabbit’s system without the nutrients being absorbed the first time. They are packed with nutrients as well as helpful bacteria and fungi that support a healthy gastrointestinal system. When you see a rabbit eating their waste, they are usually eating these cecotropes. This allows them to absorb the much-needed nutrients that would otherwise be lost.

Check Out Giant Dogs On the Free 2024 Calendar of the Portland USACE

Who knew that calendars featuring gigantic cats could be such a hit! Last year, the Pacific Northwest-based U.S. military personnel issued their own calendars which featured enormous kitties that oversaw construction projects making a seemingly ordinary calendar - a ton of fun. Needless to say, their hilarious (and completely free) calendar went viral, so they wanted to repeat last year’s success. This year, however, the Portland branch of the US Army Corps of Engineers, which is based in Oregon, decided to “branch out”, and their new yearly 2024 calendar will feature gigantic doggos as well. This was a logical follow-up to their viral social media campaign of the previous year, when kittens stole the show. The personnel of this military branch handles tough civil works in the whole of Oregon and southwestern Washington, so a bit of lighthearted humor really goes a long way for them. Their staff got the idea of superimposing photos of cats and dogs into quality landscape photos of the most important public infrastructure projects that the teams were involved with. The idea was an instant hit. And now, their 2024 calendars in both cat and dog editions can be freely downloaded in a PDF format, allowing quick and easy printing. You can find the dog calendar here and the cat calendar here.“This product was created to tell the story of our district and what we do in a way that’s actually enjoyable for the average member of the public,” Portland district spokesman Chris Gaylord said. Mr. Gaylord further said that the whole project was their effort to portray an otherwise rough and industrial work in a more entertaining light. And it is also a way for the workers to get some steam off as well. After all, they are busy throughout the year, operating more than 700 dams and 12,000 miles of inland waterways. “It was really so inspiring to see how much joy this little product brought to people all over the world,” Gaylord said, after their first calendar “won over the internet”, getting an incredible 530,000 downloads on their website. To make matters even more memorable, the photos of the pets are from the employees themselves! Gaylord received almost 750 photos from 150 workers. Choosing just a few to include in the calendar was no easy task. But to make everyone satisfied, a page at the end of the calendar includes a grid with most of the pets that did not make it onto the big pages. What do you think – which pooch of the month is your fave?

American Airlines Makes It Easier To Travel With Pets

They say to travel is to live, but deciding to leave a beloved pet at home can make you feel guilty - and bringing them along on an adventure can be tough on the bank account. No one truly wants to leave their four-legged best friend behind and figure out whether to hire a pet sitter or look for a boarding facility, but airlines don’t always make it easy for pet parents to travel with their fur babies.Finally, there’s some good news for pet parents and their four-legged companions! American Airlines has changed their pet policy, making it easier and more affordable for pet owners to fly with their fur babies.“On flights with American, you can bring one pet carrier as a carry-on if: You pay the carry-on pet fee; Your pet stays in the pet carrier and under the seat in front of you the entire flight,” shared American Airlines’ on their website. The company added that passengers can also bring “only one additional item on board with your pet” which can be a small personal item like a handbag or a purse, or a carry-on bag that meets the airline’s requirements and fits in the overhead bin compartment. The important thing to note is that you can only bring one with your pet carrier, not both.In the past, people who traveled with pets could only bring one small personal item abroad, which could fit under the seat. Anything bigger than that - for example, a larger carry-on bag that usually goes in the overhead bin - had to be checked, which was an additional $35. As an alternative, pet owners could transport their pets in the cargo hold if they wanted to take a bigger bag with them on the flight. Thanks to recent policy changes, people traveling with pets can now bring a pet aboard and choose whether they’ll travel with a carry-on bag or a personal item. At the same time, no changes to American Airlines' pet travel fee have been made. According to the company’s website, the fee remains fixed at $150 and applies per kennel, each way. For now, pet strollers must be checked at the ticket counter, and all checked bag fees apply. There are a few things to keep in mind before flying off into the sunset with your four-legged friend. All airlines are different. Every airline has its own policies for traveling with pets, so be sure to check the specific restrictions and fees on your flight before you book the tickets. Southwest, JetBlue, Delta, Alaska, and United are a few other airlines that allow pet travel, but each has its own travel requirements. Each airline specifies what pets can travel where. There are also limitations on the number of pets a passenger can bring abroad on different aircrafts. Only two pets in the same carrier can come aboard for American Airlines flights. Don’t forget that capacity is limited, meaning that checked pets are accepted on a first-come basis. Country-based restrictions also apply, and people traveling with pets should check and understand destination restrictions when traveling abroad.Lastly, whatever airline you decide to fly with, you have to find your pet an airline-compliant carrier. Without the right pet carrier, your fur baby won’t be able to fly on a plane with you. There is a lot to think about when traveling with a pet. But all will become worth it when you touch down and start making fun and exciting travel memories with your four-legged companion. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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

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

How Do I Choose the Best Muzzle for My Dog?

With the news of the recent American Bully XL ban in the UK, conversations around dog muzzles have been popping up all over social media. The growing discussion has opened the door for dog owners in the United States to consider the benefits of using a muzzle for their own dogs for many reasons, including scavenging, reactivity, and even short-term use for veterinary and grooming appointments. But with so many different styles of muzzle on the market, how do you choose the best muzzle for your dog? We have you covered! In this guide, we will discuss the different muzzle types available, what each type is best suited for, and the proper fit of a dog muzzle. Plus, I will share which muzzle we currently use with our reactive dog, Lucifer, and why. Let’s get started… Things to Consider When Shopping for a Muzzle for Your Dog When selecting a muzzle for your dog, there is no singular “best option” that will work for every dog and situation. On one hand, this can be frustrating as it leaves you feeling overwhelmed navigating the wide assortment of options. On the other hand, it means you can purchase a muzzle uniquely suited for your dog’s needs. Here are a few key factors to consider when making your decision: MaterialThere are several materials to consider when shopping for a muzzle, including metal, plastic, rubber, vinyl, leather, Biothane, fabric, silicone, and more. To determine the best option for your dog, there are a few critical deciding factors: Do you need a muzzle that can prevent a determined dog from biting? Will your dog be wearing the muzzle outdoors in the elements? Is weight a factor for your dog? Does your dog engage in “muzzle punching” when wearing a muzzle (ramming into people with the muzzle)? Will your dog likely shove the muzzle into the dirt while trying to smell the ground? It is important to note that most muzzles are not considered “bite-proof.” This means they shouldn’t be relied on to prevent a bite from occurring. If you are muzzling as a safety precaution due to a bite risk, the best options are vinyl or wire basket muzzles. Ease of Use Like harnesses and collars, some dogs make fastening a muzzle easy, while others can make the process a challenge. This doesn’t necessarily mean they dislike the muzzle or aren’t properly conditioned to the muzzle. For example, if our boy Lucifer is overly excited about going somewhere, he sometimes gets the zoomies. He usually will stand still to let us buckle his muzzle, but it’s hard to control the zoomies when they hit! A muzzle with a quick-release buckle will be your best option if that sounds familiar. This is faster to secure than a traditional threaded buckle. Airflow One primary concern for those considering muzzling their dogs is the airflow that they will offer, and for good reason! This is especially important if your dog is going to be active while wearing the muzzle. Wire basket muzzles are often a favorite for high-energy dogs, allowing for uninterrupted airflow and making it easy for your dog to drink while wearing it. In comparison, leather and Biothane muzzles, especially those designed to prevent scavengers from being able to pick up “goodies” on their walks, generally limit airflow. Carefully consider your dog’s lifestyle and the situations where a muzzle may be needed.

Enigmatic Respiratory Illness Targets Dogs – These Are The Symptoms

A mysterious and seemingly quite dangerous dog respiratory illness is spreading across the United States– and has veterinarians perplexed. This illness is compared to pneumonia, as it starts with coughing and gradually worsens. To make matters even worse, the illness seems to be resistant to common antibiotics.Officials are now releasing  statements that say dogs are most likely to contract this enigmatic illness directly through contact with other dogs. What this means is that the danger lurks in dog parks, grooming salons, kennels, and any other place where a lot of dogs can be found.While there are some enigmatic aspects to the disease, there are ways, luckily, to recognize it quickly. The most common symptoms to keep an eye out for are coughing, trouble breathing, wheezing, sneezing, nasal and eye discharge, fatigue, lethargy, and so on. According to the Oregon Department of Agriculture, dogs who exhibit these symptoms may also test negative for common causes of respiratory illnesses. Needless to say, owners who spot these symptoms in their dogs should go to the vet immediately. In the meantime, vets are advising owners to avoid places with a lot of dogs for the time being, and also to make sure that their pets are “up to date” with all the necessary vaccinations. And although it is a new illness, officials at the Oregon Department of Agriculture have said that three main categories of cases can already be observed.Chronic mild-moderate tracheobronchitis with a prolonged duration (6 to 8 weeks or longer) that is minimally or not responsive to antibiotics. Chronic pneumonia that is minimally or not responsive to antibiotics.Acute pneumonia rapidly becomes severe and often leads to poor outcomes in as little as 24-36 hours.Checkups are advised, of course, and vets urge owners to schedule visits before exposing their dogs to potentially dangerous environments. According to officials, the illness had been reported in the following U.S. states: Washington, Idaho, Illinois, California, Indiana, Florida, Georgia, Colorado, Oregon, and New Hampshire.“Reduce contact with large numbers of unknown dogs.” the officials advise. “Just like with other respiratory pathogens, the more contacts your dog has, the greater the risk of encountering a dog that’s infectious.”While experts advise dog owners to be careful, but not to worry too much without a reason. Needless to say, you should avoid contact with dogs that look sick or exhibit symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, or runny nose and eyes. Do your best to keep your dog away from them. Another thing to avoid is communal water sources from which many dogs drink. And if your four-legged friend exhibits these symptoms, make sure to keep them at home in order to keep other dogs safe – and of course contact a vet to make sure they get the right treatment on time.

How Often Should I Clean My Bird's Cage?

Parrots and small birds are exceptionally vulnerable when their cage is left unkempt and dirty – proper hygiene and a clean space to rest and eat in are a must for the good health of all avians. What is more, a bird cage that is left unclean can become a threat to your health as well, with airborne bacteria and pathogens flying all over the place. All in all, it’s clear that regular cleaning of your bird's cage shouldn’t be seen as just a dull chore but as a necessary task to protect everyone’s health and wellbeing. However, while it’s obvious that you need to do it regularly, just how often should you clean your bird’s cage? Is it on a check-and-see basis or is there a recommended frequency of cleaning? Let’s find out.How Often Should I Clean My Bird's Cage?The frequency at which you should clean the cage depends on several factors, including the size of the cage, the number of birds you have, and the species of bird in question. For example, a smaller cage will get dirty in no time, while a large one that houses a single, bigger bird will remain cleaner for longer. While these are good starting guidelines, things are not that simple.The best approach to take is to clean the cage daily, weekly, and monthly. Of course, the amount of cleaning you do each day will differ from the one you do on a monthly basis – here’s how it should look like:Daily Cleaning:Change the  food and water dishes daily to ensure fresh food and clean water. This is imperative and a major part of caring for your bird. Don’t allow water to remain unchanged and food to go stale.

Meet the Lancashire Heeler, the AKC's Newest Dog Breed

Say hello to the Lancashire heeler - the American Kennel Club’s 201st recognized dog breed and the newest member of the Herding group. Although small in stature, Lancashire heelers are active and sturdy dogs ready to compete with 200 other dog breeds at thousands of U.S dog shows.“A small, powerful herding dog that thrives on human interaction, this breed would make a great companion for active families that can provide a great deal of love and attention," said Gina DiNardo, American Kennel Club’s Executive Secretary.These small dogs have long bodies and short coats, often black and tan or liver and tan. The Lancashire heeler is a solidly built dog that is around one foot (30 centimeters) tall at the shoulders and weighs up to 17 pounds (7.7 kilograms). Traditionally, Lancashire heelers worked on farms as ratters and herders. Today, these feisty dogs participate in various canine sports and pursuits.“They are gritty little dogs, and they are very intelligent little dogs,” said Patricia Blankenship, who has bred Lancashire heelers for over a decade. “It’s an enjoyable little breed to be around,” she added. The official breed standard calls for Lancashire heelers to be courageous, happy, and affectionate to owner. The owners of these pooches say that happy heelers sometimes pull their lips back and smile. These small but powerful dogs won’t be content to lounge around all the time. They are highly energetic and just as skilled in performance sports as they are in conformation. Lancashire heelers can be found competing in agility, herding, obedience, rally, barn hunt, tracking, disk dog, dock diving, and therapy trials. “There are even a couple that have competed in Earth dog and weight-pull events,” said Sheryl Bradbury, President of the United States Lancashire Heeler Club (USLHC), according to AKC. “It’s a breed that will work hard all day and is happy to curl up at your side and watch the TV news at night.”“The breed is different but in a good way,” said Jeff Kestner, Club Chair of Judges’ Education Committee. “It’s not a run-of-the-mill dog. Its eyes and expression are like magnets. Being a herding breed it's extremely intelligent - it definitely needs a job to do.” According to Bradbury, the biggest misconception about the Lancashire heeler is that it’s adorable and sweet and the perfect size to sit on your lap. “I always caution the buyers to not let a puppy’s cuteness fool you. The minute it is off your lap it may be chewing your shoes or nipping at your heels. Conversely, it will be your loyal best friend.”This cute breed often develops a strong bond with one household member. They will like to interact with the entire family but will pick a favorite person. “It is great with children as long as the children understand how to respect the dog,” added Bradbury. The breed’s origin is packed with mystery but they were first bred in the United Kingdom. The Lancashire heeler is regarded as a “vulnerable native breed” and faces extinction in its homeland. The United Kingdom’s Kennel Club has added an average of just 121 Lancashire heelers to its registry in recent years.Being recognized as a dog breed doesn’t mean that the breed in question is newly created. To officially recognize the Lancashire heeler, the American Kennel Club required proof of a minimum of 20 litters bred with a three-generation pedigree. This guarantees that the breed is established and sustainable. According to Bradbury, there are around 400 Lancashire heelers nationwide but there’s no doubt we’ll see more of these dogs in the future. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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