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Best Dental Treats for Cats

Angela Vuckovic
by Angela Vuckovic
Published:  September 24th, 2021
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With thousands of happy pawrents and their pampered kitties vouching for these dental treats, yours is just to pick one with your pet’s fave flavor and watch those teefers become sparkly clean in no time.

Not unlike dogs, cats also need to keep their canines sparkly and clean to prevent plaque buildup and early tooth loss as a result of poor oral hygiene. Unfortunately, felines are not as willing to have their teeth brushed and even if you can get your kitty to grin for toothpaste- it’s difficult to properly clean those tiny chompers. As a result, between 50 and 90 percent of cats have some form of dental issues by their fourth birthday- a devastating statistic. That’s why dental treats for cats are so important- they help maintain good oral health and promote cleanliness that’s important for the prevention of oral disease. Of course, you’ll still have to brush those teefers regularly for dental treats for cats to work in the first place- at least several times a week is the recommended pace.

Why is oral hygiene important for cats?

Even though it can be well-balanced nutritionally, commercial pet food is not the gentles on feline teeth. As obligate carnivores, cats would base their diet mostly on raw meat in nature, which is why their jaws are so susceptible to years of chomping on kibble. Bits of pet food that get stuck on their teeth can severely deteriorate the oral health, and only maintaining good hygiene can help prevent problems. Cats who don’t have their teeth brushed routinely can develop gingivitis, periodontitis, and even loose teeth due to tooth resorption. This means a lot of pain and discomfort for your cat, lower quality of life, and huge vet bills for you. And all of that can be avoided with vigilant oral care!

While the need for immaculate dental hygiene is equal for all pets, felines are often faced with a limited choice when it comes to dental treats. It can be difficult to find dental treats for cats that deliver what they promise, let alone happen to suit your finicky feline’s tastes. That’s why we put together this comprehensive list of best dental treats for cats- you’ll have all of the most popular products rounded up in one place. With thousands of happy pawrents and their pampered kitties vouching for these dental treats, yours is just to pick one with your pet’s fave flavor and watch those teefers become sparkly clean in no time!

1. Editor’s Choice: Minties Dental Cat Treats

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Formulated to control tartar and freshen breath, these tasty kitty treats will keep your pet’s oral health up to standards. Made in the USA without wheat, soy, corn or artificial flavors in the formula, these treats are rich in protein and have a nice, crunchy texture that cats love. Not to mention that the crunchiness also helps keep those teefers spotless by mechanically cleaning them while your pet munchs on the treat. There are two flavors available, chicken or salmon, so you can make sure that your feline’s refined tastes are met. And the best part is – each treat is just 1.5 kcal, so even if your pet is overweight, you can indulge them with these treats without feeling guilty about it.

2. Runner Up: FELINE GREENIES Dental Cat Treats Oven Roasted Chicken Flavor

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A tried and true classic and a staple in many pet owner’s households, Feline Greenies dental treats for cats come in a few different flavors, but one of their most popular is the tempting tuna. Made in the USA, these treats boast a natural formula with added vitamins, minerals, and taurine to support optimal nutrition, in addition to promoting good oral health. The texture of these crunchy treats is great for teeth cleaning and reduction of existing tartar build-up, so they’re also recommended by vets. The other available flavors are savory salmon, oven roasted chicken, and catnip- an excellent choice if you think your kitty will need extra enticing to make the switch to new dental treats. Formulated for adult cats, these dental treats are suited to all breeds and sizes of cats.

3. Best for Picky Eaters: VetriScience Perio Plus Everyday Health Feline Bites

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Crunchy outside and soft inside, Feline Bites are designed to be up to standards of the pickiest eaters. The unique texture is fave with most cats, as well as the tantalizing chicken flavor. Of course, the design is not just about pleasing your kitty’s taste buds. The outer layer of these flower-shaped treats cleans teeth, reduces plaque and as a result, promotes fresh breath in cats. The inner soft part of the treat contains zinc and taurine and is responsible for gum tissue integrity, which plays into supporting overall oral health. Additionally, the larger size and chewier texture do make sure cats have to chomp these for a little while before getting to indulge, so it also helps with the mechanical part of the cleaning. However, if your kitty is pregnant or nursing, it’s worth having in mind that safe use of this product in pregnant animals or animals intended for breeding has not been proven.

4. Best Tartar Control: Meow Mix Ocean Explosion Tartar Control Cat Treats

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Made with real tuna, ocean fish, and salmon, these dental treats are just the things for cats that go bananas for all things fishy. The irresistible flavor earned these treats the nickname “kitty crack” and deservedly so – even picky eaters will be obsessed with these yummy dental treats. And that is a great advantage, as the treats are optimized to maintain your pet’s oral health by keeping plaque and tartar at bay and your pet’s teeth healthy and free of bacteria and build up. Another great thing about these treats is that they come in resealable pouches, so they won’t change texture or flavor after a while – that is, if your pet manages not to gobble them all down in a matter of days.

5. Best Low Fat: C.E.T. Intellident Cat Bites by Virbac

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Tasty, bite-sized, and loved by felines of all sizes and ages, these dental treats are formulated to support healthy teeth and gums. The treats will both clean your pet’s teeth and freshen their breath – when they munch on the treats, they will remove tartar and plaque buildup, leaving behind no bacteria to cause bad breath and sparkly white teefers. Low fat, naturally flavored, and without any artificial preservatives, these treats are suited for cats of all sizes (they are only 2.6 kcal per treat) and ages. The natural aroma of the treats is chicken, so if your kitty is a fan of poultry, they love these!

6. Best Salmon: Emerald Pet Feline Dental Treats with Salmon

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For kitties who actually like it when something smells fishy, dental treats with salmon flavor will be an absolute delight. These crunchy-fish shaped yummies are larger in size and stimulate chewing, which will help fight the plaque build-up and improve oral health. If your cat is prone to food allergies or has any sensitivities to commercial pet foods, these treats are a good choice, as they are free of grain, gluten, soy, and dairy ingredients, making it safe for most allergic felines. Of course, in the case your cat is not that big on fish flavors, these treats also come tasting of chicken, so you’ll be covered! What’s more, these dental treats are great for chonky kitties: they are less than two calories per treat so you don’t have to worry you’re overindulging your pet and causing weight gain with their new dental hygiene routine. Proudly made in the USA using U.S.-sourced ingredients with no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives.

7. Best Low Calorie: WholeHearted Smart Smiles Salmon Flavored Cat Dental Treats

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Salmon flavor to help your cat’s breath smell better? Oddly, yes! These uniquely designed and textured cat treats from WholeHearted are designed to support your kitty’s dental health. They will reduce plaque and tartar, which we all know can play a part in bad cat breath. Their unique ingredient formula provides a fishy flavor that your cat will love but it also contains peppermint which will help freshen their breath.

In addition to helping your cat’s breath, they are also suitable treats for any overweight kitties. They are only two calories per treat so you won’t feel guilty giving them the Smart Smiles Salmon Flavored Dental Treats even if they haven’t been able to lose those COVID pounds. These dental cat treats from WholeHearted even have a prebiotic to help support healthy digestion in your feline friend. They are highly rated on Amazon by pet owners just like you and come in two size packs for your cat’s dental treat needs.

8. Best Chicken: Hartz Dentist’s Best Chicken Flavored Dental Cat Treats

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These heart-shaped tasty chicken dental treats for cats work twofold to keep your kitty’s teefer sparkly clean, their breath fresh, and their gums healthy. The first layer of effect is the texture of the treats, that cleans the surface of the teeth mechanically and helps reduce tartar buildup, as well as massage your cat’s gums. The second property that also makes Hartz dental treats for cats unique is the patented DentaShield technology that helps to reduce new tartar formation by bonding with components in your cat’s saliva. Helping with old issues and preventing new from forming- hard to beat that!

9. Best Grain Free: PawLove Chicken Kitty Kisses Cat Dental Treats

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Flavorful and crunchy, these dental treats will make any kitty enthusiastic, even those finicky felines. Made in the USA from locally sourced ingredients, these treats include real chicken or salmon (there are two flavors to choose from) and are completely grain-free. Protein-rich and packed with breath-freshening ingredients, they will keep your cat full and their kisses odor-free. Thanks to their crunchy texture, when your pet chews on the treat, it will mechanically remove any buildup on your pet’s teeth, preventing bacteria overgrowth, cavities, and oral health issues in the long run.

10. Honorable Mention: In Clover Smile Daily Dental Health Soft Chews for Cats

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Another completely natural solution for dental issues in felines, InClover treats were formulated by a biochemist to prevent the development of oral diseases. These soft chewables contain a blend of flavonoids, prebiotics, catnip, and green tea extract, scientifically designed to eliminate plaque-causing bacteria and ensure odor-free breath. To boot, these yummies don’t contain grains, wheat, corn, soy or any artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, so they are safe for sensitive felines. And to make things even better, the company offers a 100% money back guarantee – if your cat is unsatisfied with the treats for any reason, the vendor offers a full refund. Perfect if you have a picky kitty!

Do dental treats for cats work?

Yes, dental cat treats work, but they are by no means a miracle solution that can replace regular dental hygiene. Brushing and dental check-ups remain a must for all kitties, even those that consume dental treats on the daily. With that being said, dental treats can help maintain clean and healthy teeth, prolong the timing in between brushings, and make sure that your pet enjoys tasty treats without them having a bad effect on their oral health.

How often should I give dental treats to my cat?

It all depends on the treats you pick out – every brand has a different formula, which will mean that the dosages and timings will vary. Asa general rule, however, most dental treats are given at least once a day, if not more, to ensure that the chewing motion does its job of removing plaque and tartar from your cat’s tiny teeth. Just be careful not to go overboard, as all treats should be given in moderation, to avoid obesity or GI upset.

Can Cat Dental Treats replace brushing?

No, cat dental treats are not a replacement for regular teeth brushing. While they can help keep tartar at bay to some degree, without brushing, they won’t be as effective as you need them to be. The best results and the healthiest teeth are a result of a well-balanced oral hygiene routine which includes regular brushing, fortified by the use of chew treats and chew toys, as well as water additives if you prefer.

Can you give dental treats to kittens?

Different treats have different formulas, so there isn’t an universal answer to this question. Most, however, are formulated to meet the needs of adult cats and not kittens, so it’s best to wait a bit until your kitty is at least a year old to offer them tasty dental treats. If unsure, check the label – usually, there will be clear info about cat ages the formula is appropriate for.

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Angela Vuckovic
Angela Vuckovic

A proud mama to seven dogs and ten cats, Angela spends her days writing for her fellow pet parents and pampering her furballs, all of whom are rescues. When she's not gushing over her adorable cats or playing with her dogs, she can be found curled up with a good fantasy book.

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The friendly, playful, and trainable Labrador is one of the most popular dog breeds around the world. But, few canines are as obsessed with food as Labrador retrievers - and now scientists think they have discovered why. According to new research, a quarter of labs are predisposed to obesity due to a genetic mutation.Approximately 25 percent of Labradors face a double-whammy of burning fewer calories and feeling hungry all the time because of an anomaly. Scientists explain that this obesity-causing combination means dog owners must be strict when feeding and exercising their labs to keep them fit.The mutation is found in the gene called POMC, which plays an important role in energy use and hunger, and affects how dogs behave around food. Around 25 percent of Labradors and 66 percent of flat-coated retrievers are affected by POMC mutation, which puts these dogs at risk of obesity and causes increased interest in food.Researchers found that although these dogs don’t need to eat more to feel full, they are hungrier in between meals. The study also showed that dogs with the POMC mutation use around 25 percent less energy when resting than dogs without it. As a result, these pooches don’t need to eat as many calories to maintain a healthy weight. “We found that a mutation in the POMC gene seems to make dogs hungrier. Affected dogs tend to overeat because they get hungry between meals more quickly than dogs without the mutation,” said Dr. Eleanor Raffan, a researcher in the University of Cambridge’s Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience who led the study. “All owners of Labradors and flat-coated retrievers need to watch what they’re feeding these highly food-motivated dogs to keep them a healthy weight. But dogs with this genetic mutation face a double whammy: they not only want to eat more, but also need fewer calories because they’re not burning them off as fast,” she added.The study found that the POMC mutation alters a pathway in dogs’ brains associated with body weight regulation. The mutated genes trigger the starvation signal that sends a message to the body to increase food intake and conserve energy.The study involved 87 adult pet Labradors, all at a healthy weight or moderately obese. The dogs were subjected to several tests, including ‘the sausage in the box’ test. The dogs were first given a can of wet dog food every 20 minutes until they couldn’t eat any more. All labs eat huge amounts of food, but what’s interesting is that dogs with POMC didn’t eat more food than the dogs without it.On a different day, all dogs were given the same breakfast. Three hours later they were offered a sausage in a box made of clear plastic and a perforated lid, so the dogs could see and smell the sausage but not eat it.Scientists discovered that labs with POMC mutation tried harder to get the sausage than the dogs without it, showing greater hunger. In another test, the dogs were allowed to sleep in a special chamber that measured the gases they breathed out. This test showed that labs with POMC mutation burn 25 percent fewer calories than dogs without it. According to researchers, people are often rude to owners of fat dogs, criticizing them for not feeding and exercising their dogs properly. However, this study has shown that labs with POMC are trying to increase their energy intake by looking for food all the time. Keeping these dogs slim is challenging, but possible. Spreading out daily food rations, by using puzzle feeders to slow down feeding or scattering the food around the yard so it takes longer to eat are ways owners can keep their Labradors distracted from constant hunger. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Why Does My Dog Eat Poop?

When it comes to eating, most dogs will eat just about anything – in fact, if it’s something that’s forbidden for them to eat or something that they really shouldn’t be munching on, their appetite only seems to increase. And unfortunately, that also includes poop. While it is definitely disgusting to see, it actually has a lot of science behind it. The behavior is called  coprophagia, and it is influenced by a lot of major factors. Getting to know them can help you better understand this odd behavior, and help you act accordingly. So let’s learn all about dogs and poop-eating.Why Does My Dog Eat Poop?Believe it or not, eating poop is a fairly common behavior in dogs. In fact, recent studies reveal that it is  in a dog’s DNA to eat poop. It isn’t, however, a behavior that should be ignored completely. Because it can give you insights into the health and mentality of your four-legged friend. If you spot your pet munching on the forbidden fudge, it could signal a major nutritional deficiency. So, basically, if a dog is lacking certain nutrients in their diet, they may seek to fulfill those needs by eating feces. Of course, it can also signal underlying medical issues. It is known that some medical conditions can lead to coprophagia, such as malabsorption disorders or  parasites. Coprophagia can also sometimes stem from behavioral issues, such as stress, anxiety, or boredom. Dogs may resort to eating poop as a way to cope with these feelings or out of sheer boredom. It can also come from simple attention-seeking. Yup, your dog can eat feces as a way to gain attention, especially if they've received a strong reaction from their owners in the past. And, if you notice that your doggo is nibbling on poop in the park or on the street, they could be attracted to the scent. The scent of feces attracts some dogs, especially if it's from another animal. Of course, neglect can also be a viable cause. Dogs that are confined in tight spaces or cages can exhibit unnatural behaviors, such as excessive eating of poop. It can also stem from anxiety, fear, isolation, or from problems related to diet. Either way, it is essential to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical issues and to address any behavioral concerns. Of course, ensuring your dog has a balanced diet, plenty of physical and mental stimulation, and positive reinforcement training can help deter this behavior. It can also be wise to supplement your dog’s diet with  quality multivitamins, which can balance their nutritional needs and prevent poop-eating. 

This Farm Offers Cuddle Sessions With A Pack Of Adorable Goldens

For decades,  Golden Retrievers have been one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States – heck, in the world. It’s no secret that Goldens are simply everyone’s favorite! Cute, goofy, and cuddly, these dogs are such a wonder and so much fun to be around. And now, thanks to Golden Dog Farm from Jeffersonville, Vermont, the fans of this famed breed can enjoy a very special experience centered around these adorable furballs.This family-run farm launched a special Golden Retriever Experience – a one-hour session allows guests to enjoy refreshments such as cider and snacks, all in the company of a huge group of cuddly golden retrievers called “happy”. The session is usually called the “happy hour” just because of this, and allows anyone to immerse themselves in the company of “at least '' 10 dogs Umm, sign me up for any activity that includes dogs, especially ten of ‘em! The Golden Dog Farm is run by Doug and Becca Worple and in an interview with  USA TODAY, the couple happily exclaimed that the bookings for the experience sold out incredibly quickly. It was certainly not what they expected earlier this year when they came up with the idea and started it all. Not at all surprisingly, it was COVID that caused the idea to come to fruition. During the height of the virus rampage, Doug Worple’s job, based at a travel-oriented global digital advertising agency, suddenly experienced a major hiccup. Trying to get a bearing at this trying time, Doug said he “used the moment to take a step back and consider what was next.” And, together with his partner Becca Worple – herself a photographer and a media representative at a radio station – Doug decided it was best to sell their home in Cincinnati, Ohio, in hopes of moving to a family cottage in Ontario. It was a time of big changes."Then the border closed," Doug Worple said. "Now we're two weeks out of closing on our house and didn't know where to go, so we decided to buy an RV and traveled to 35 different states, 17,000 miles in the RV with two of the dogs."And during this incredible and life-changing adventure, the couple decided to start a golden retriever-based business, and to finally settle in beautiful Vermont. "We've just always loved goldens and always wanted to have a lot of goldens," Worple said. "With what I was doing, I saw the power of influencers and social media and all that and I joked we need to have an Instagram farm full of golden retrievers, and soon we started looking at what that might look like."And once they arrived at Jeffersonville, Vermont, a sign they were looking for appeared – and they were left speechless. While driving through town, they suddenly spotted a truck full of golden retrievers, driven by Dana Menne of Butternut Goldens. It was a match made in heaven. "(Becca told me), 'If God were to send to me a sign we needed to move someplace, it would be a truckload of goldens,'" Doug Worple said.In no time, their idea about a golden retriever “happy hour” began to take some serious shape. And especially thanks to the Butternut Goldens.  "Collectively both of us wanted to do something like this but they didn't have a place to do it and we didn't have enough goldens," Doug Worple said. "But together we could make it happen."At the moment, their “happy hours” are sold out until Dec. 17, but the Worples have plans to extend the dates to April, giving everyone a chance to enjoy this experience. The one-hour experience runs on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays and costs $75 for adults and $50 for children."People are so happy when they're here, they have this childlike joy on their faces," Worple said. "People cry because they're so happy."What about you? Would you enjoy an hour cuddling with golden retrievers?

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.

What Size of Cage Does My Hamster Need?

Final Thoughts: The Best Hamster Cage SetupWhen setting up your hamster’s habitat, consider the floor space available. They are active and energetic creatures that need to be able to run, demanding more freedom to move than is often available in the overly hyped commercial cages. Instead, ensure the cage offers at least 24” by 12” of floor space on the main floor. Several cage styles are available, including wire cages, glass aquariums, and plastic pens. If you want to extend their habitat with a second floor, be cautious about the risk of injury. A long fall can be catastrophic. Include all necessities on the main floor of your hamster’s cage. This includes plenty of bedding to burrow into, clean hay, chew toys/enrichment opportunities, an appropriately sized exercise wheel, and access to fresh food and water. A proper habitat is the foundation for a happy, healthy life for your furry friend! Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How To Tell if a Dog Is Cold

You might think your dog feels fine in cold weather, thanks to their thick coat, but they can definitely feel the chill—and when they aren’t warm and comfortable, they could develop serious problems like hypothermia. So, it’s important to know the signs that your dog is cold, and to take steps to keep your pet comfy, whether they’re indoors or outside.  Although any dog can be affected by cold temperatures, wind, and snow, some are going to feel the drop in temperature sooner or more intensely. Puppies and seniors, as well as small dogs and those with short coats, are a few examples, along with hairless dogs and those who are ill or have chronic medical conditions.Signs Your Dog Is ColdHere are some of the ways to tell if your dog is cold:Your dog feels cold to the touch – An easy way to tell if your dog is cold is by petting them and feeling the temperature of their body. A good place to check is their ears, but also touch their paws, belly, and skin under their fur. If their body is cool to the touch, there are ways to warm them up.Your dog doesn’t want to be active – If your dog isn’t as active as they usually are, they might be feeling the chill in the air. Feel their body, as discussed above, to see if they’re cold, and take steps to make them warm. A dog who’s moving more slowly than normal while outside should be brought inside right away. Your dog is shivering – Just like people shiver when they’re cold, dogs will too, so this is an obvious sign that your pet needs to be warmed up as soon as possible. If your dog is trembling, consider the temperature inside your home, as you might need to turn the heat up. And if your dog is shaking while outside in the cold, bring them inside right away.Your dog is searching for ways to stay warm – If your dog wants to lie down next to the fireplace or heater, or they want to snuggle up next to you or under a blanket, they’re looking for ways to get warm. In addition, your dog might be reluctant to go outside, whether for a walk or to go potty. If they’re outside and you see them trying to find some shelter to warm up, bring them in immediately.  Your dog’s body language and vocalizations change – If you know your pet’s normal behavior and demeanor, it should be easy to tell when they’re cold. There will be signs that they’re uncomfortable, and they might exhibit anxious behaviors that let you know something is wrong. For example, your dog may tuck their tail, have a hunched posture, or curl up in a ball, and they might also bark or whimper. What To Do if Your Dog Is ColdWhenever your dog is showing signs of feeling cold, take action right away. Remember, a dog who gets too cold is at risk of hypothermia. Also, the cold can make some dogs, such as those with arthritis, experience even more discomfort. If your dog is outside, bring them inside. And if they’re wet from rain or snow, dry them gently.If your dog is already inside, move them to a warmer area, such as near a heat source and away from drafts.Help your dog feel warm and cozy indoorsYou can rub and massage your dog to help generate some warmth with your hands. Give your pet a cozy bed to rest in, and cover them with a blanket. You can also lie down next to your dog to help them warm up.There are heated dog beds you can use whenever your dog is chilly, along with dog heating pads that can work well too—just be sure to use these products as directed for safety and so your pet won’t get too hot. Keep your dog warm while outsideBefore heading outside with your dog, check the temperature. Generally, if it’s colder than 45°F (7°C), you should take additional precautions to ensure your pet won’t get too cold. But you know your individual dog best, so you’ll know when they need extra protection and less time outside.There are various jackets, sweaters, and boots made for dogs of all breeds and sizes. Put these on your canine companion before heading outside so they can stay warm while they go potty or go for a short walk.If it’s too cold for a walk or play session outside, don’t force your dog to stay out there. Instead, find ways to play with your dog indoors until the weather warms enough to be safer and more comfortable for your pooch.Use products that help your dog warm up and stay warmHere are a couple of items to consider buying for your dog: K&H Self-Warming Crate Pad

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.

Organizations Donate Free Food to Help Owners Keep Pets

The high cost of living forces many pet owners to consider rehoming their pets.

These Are the States With the Most Spoiled Doggos in 2023

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

Followers Cry Fowl as Staffie Peggy and Magpie Molly, Separated

Fans of the social media darlings start an online campaign to reunite the odd couple.

What Should I Include in a Pet First Aid Kit?

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

Latest Studies Find That Aging in Dogs Can Mirror Aging in Humans

In the United States alone, pet owners spend around $1,500 a year on  veterinary care. To be precise, people tend to spend more on dogs than on any other pets – up to 41% of Americans spend $2,000 per year caring about their cherished canine friends. Of course, this is all in the hopes that their pet reaches their senior age with minimal issues and that they get to spend as many years enjoying their company. While providing veterinary care is an important factor that contributes to a pet’s longevity, it’s not always easy to determine when a certain procedure or treatment will help prolong your pet’s life and not their suffering. By comparing the concept they labeled “frailty” in humans and in dogs, a team of researchers hopes that they can help owners make better decisions about their pet’s care.Scientists behind the “ Dog Aging Project” are studying how they could improve your dog’s quality of life for many years to come. The team from the University of Washington is conducting extensive research, based on dogs of all ages, in their attempts to determine how their quality of life is impacted as they age. Dr. Anya Gambino, one of the chief veterinarians working on the project, says: “There's a quantity of life. It's amazing to have a long life, but you always want to have quality of life." The team’s UW Biologist and the Co-Director of the Project, Daniel Promislow, quickly drew a parallel with humans. "Dogs get the same kinds of diseases that humans get. They also show the same kinds of frailty that we see in humans," he said.The so-called “frailty” of dogs, which is the object of the study, is already studied in humans. Dr. Promislow firmly believes that through this study, researchers can gain a much better understanding of life expectancies in dogs and potential disease risks as well. "We hope we'll be able to figure out the relationship between frailty and the disease," Promislow says. But what exactly is this “frailty”? Researchers describe it as "a complex syndrome associated with aging. Because it considers physical, mental and emotional changes associated with aging, it is a better indicator of the body’s condition and overall health than age alone.""If we can do that, we can help vets treat dogs earlier before those diseases are apparent and can also help dogs enjoy their later years to the best degree possible," said Promislow.The study is on a very grand scale and already enrolls over 46,000 dogs across the United States. What is best, researchers believe that humans can also benefit from this extensive study. "The other thing about aging in dogs is that aging in dogs looks a lot like aging in people," said Promislow. "What we learn about aging in dogs is going to help us learn about aging in people, as well."Hopefully, this would mean that many more dogs would get a chance to enjoy their golden years, right by their owner's side. "They provide us with so much unconditional love, joy, and humor," said Dr. Gambino. "We can do something for them that gives them the best chance for living a very happy life with us."

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