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Best Cat Window Perches

Lisa Selvaggio
by Lisa Selvaggio
Published:  July 9th, 2020

Your cat wants to know what’s going on outside. Give her the perfect place to window watch. Check out our list of the best cat window perches.

Does your cat love looking out the window, but she doesn’t have a comfortable way to do so? Well, there are a variety of window perches designed just for felines, and they can give your pet the platform that she needs to keep an eye on what’s going on outside.

To get an idea of what’s available, check out our list of some of the best window perches for cats that we could find. As you browse your options, consider their features and what your furry companion would prefer so you can boost the odds that she’ll love it and use it all the time.

The majority of these perches will mount directly to your window or a glass door, and some of them are more enclosed than others, but we also included an option that doesn’t require mounting it on a window, in case you’re interested in an alternative design. No matter which one you choose, it’s a good way to provide your pet with some environmental enrichment.

K&H Pet Products Universal Mount Kitty Sill

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The K&H Pet Products Universal Mount Kitty Sill can hold over 60 pounds, so if you have more than one kitty and they can both fit on it, they can lounge at the same time and snuggle together. You can easily mount this product to your window with the three strong suction cups, without needing to use any tools.

This perch features a soft orthopedic foam base and faux fleece to give your kitty a comfortable and supportive spot to hang out while getting some sun and looking outside. It also has adjustable, snap-in legs, and it will fit most windows that have glass panes that are 17” wide or larger. Measuring 14” x 24”, this window perch for cats comes with a cover that is removable, and it also comes with a 1-year limited warranty.

Note: You can also check out the K&H Pet Products Hooded Universal Kitty Sill. It, too, features a sturdy design with adjustable snap-in legs, and it can easily mount to your window with three strong suction cups. The main difference is that this one boasts a built-in hood with a lookout window to give your kitty some extra privacy and support.

K&H Pet Products EZ Mount Kitty Sill Deluxe with Bolster

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K&H Pet Products has a lot of different options when it comes to window perches for cats, and the EZ Mount Kitty Sill Deluxe with Bolster is just one of many that we’ll cover on this list. This product will fit windows that are least 24” x 19” in size.

Capable of holding more than 50 pounds, this is a sturdy product in a hammock style, so it’s perfect for kitties that like to nap near a window while getting some sun. The comfortable bolsters along the edges can provide your pet with additional support and comfort. And, when it’s not in use, you can simply flip it up so you can close your blinds, curtains, or drapes without the perch getting in the way.

Measuring 12” x 23”, this window perch is easy to assemble and install without any tools. The bolsters are removable, the cover is machine washable, and the frame can be wiped with a damp cloth to clean it.

Oster Sunny Seat Cat Window Perch

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The Oster Sunny Seat Cat Window Perch measures 12” x 22”, and it is a great way to give your cat amazing views of the outside, while saving space. You can install this super strong window bed in minutes, without any tools, by attaching the industrial strength suction cups to any glass window or door.

This perch, which comes with a 1-year limited warranty, is designed to remain firmly in place, giving you peace of mind that your pet will be safe when using it. And it can hold up to 50 pounds, so it’s great for larger kitties and cats that want to share the perch with their buddies. Plus, the durable, polyester cover on this perch is removable and machine washable, making it easy to keep clean.

K&H Pet Products Deluxe Kitty Sill Cat Window Perch

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Another great option offered by K&H Pet Products is their Deluxe Kitty Sill Cat Window Perch. It features soft faux fleece and an orthopedic surface for your cat to sit on, along with decorative bolsters that can provide additional security and support. You can zip off the bolster to transform this product into a plush sill, and you can remove the cover, which is machine washable.

This strong perch comes with a 1-year limited warranty and measures 14” x 24” x 10”. It is easy to set up without any tools by using the hook and loop that are provided. However, you can also use the screws that are included in the package to secure it into place even more strongly. Just be sure the windowsill is at least 2” deep before installing this product. Once it’s all set up, it can hold up to 40 pounds.

You can choose from two design options: leopard and kitty print.

K&H Pet Products EZ Mount Scratcher Kitty Sill Cradle

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Your cat needs a variety of scratchers to satisfy her natural urge to stretch, scratch, and keep her claws healthy. What’s nice about the K&H Pet Products EZ Mount Scratcher Kitty Sill is that it doubles as a large, durable horizontal scratcher made of recyclable cardboard, so it does more than just give your cat a place to sit by the window. And, thanks to its curved shape, this perch will cradle your cat, so she can easily get into a comfortable position.

You can mount this perch, which measures 20” x 11” and comes with a 1-year limited warranty, to any glass surface using the suction cups. This lets you quickly and easily give your feline a place to call her own that’s high up off the floor. And because it comes with catnip, you can get her interested in it right away.

Note: When the scratcher gets worn out, you can purchase the Kitty Sill Cradle Refill to give your kitty a brand new surface to lounge on and scratch. Also, if you don’t think your kitty would like the cradle design, you can check out the regular Kitty Sill design, which also doubles as a cardboard scratcher but has a flatter platform with bolster-like sides.

K&H Pet Products EZ Mount Double Stack Kitty Sill Cat Window Perch

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The sturdy K&H Pet Products EZ Mount Double Stack Kitty Sill Cat Window Perch is another great product to consider when you want to give your pet a seat at the window that’s elevated so she can enjoy the view of what’s going on outside, as well as what’s going on inside the house. But what makes this product different from the others on this list so far is the fact that it has two levels.

Your cat can choose to use one of the two levels, as she can easily jump from the lower level to the top level through a round hole. And if you have more than one cat, they can all hang out on this perch, thanks to the extra space that it provides (it’s strong enough to hold more than 100 pounds when installed correctly).

As is the case with the other cat window perches on this list, this one is designed to be easy to install. It measures 12” x 23”, and it uses Push ‘n’ Turn suction cups that secure the product to your window. Also, when not in use, you can fold it up so it will be out of the way of your window treatments. Plus, the removable cover is machine washable, and it comes with a 1-year limited warranty.

K&H Pet Products EZ Mount Penthouse

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Another window perch with two levels is the K&H Pet Products EZ Mount Penthouse. What makes this one different, though, is the covered sides with round windows. Great for multi-cat households and kitties that love spending hours sunbathing or looking at the birds outside, this perch can be set in place on most windows and glass doors with the extra strong suction cups that are included.

This product features a secure, built-in ledge to make it easy for your furry friend to jump up and make her way into the covered part of the perch. There are also open mesh windows for increased visibility, along with a plush microfleece pad on the main platform. The top of the penthouse is also lined with microfleece, so it’s comfortable no matter where your cat chooses to sit. And the cover is removable and machine washable.

Measuring 23” x 19” x 9.5”, this perch comes with a 1-year limited warranty. It’s simple to install without any tools. Then, when not in use, you can take it down easily, and the collapsible design is convenient when storing it away.

K&H Pet Products EZ Mount Window Bed Kitty Sill with Kittyface

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Yet another great window perch from K&H Pet Products is their EZ Mount Window Bed Kitty Sill with Kittyface design, which comes with a 1-year limited warranty and offers a totally different shape from the products listed above.

This is a hammock bed with an adorable design. It will quickly and easily mount to any window using the industrial strength suction cups, and you won’t need any tools to get the job done. Once securely in place, it will be able to hold up to 60 pounds, so it’s perfect for larger cats and multi-cat households.

The top of this perch, which boasts a half pod design, makes it easy for your cat to jump in and settle down for a nap or spend time looking out the window comfortably. The removable Amazin’ Kitty Pad that comes in the package acts like an insulator to keep your kitty nice and warm, and it can also help trap dander and fur. Plus, because it’s enclosed all around, this perch helps keep your pet secure while she’s napping.

Note: This product is also available in green and tan color options as well.

K&H Pet Products EZ Mount Bubble Pod Cat Window Perch

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The EZ Mount Bubble Pod Cat Window Perch by K&H Pet Products is a unique product to consider for your cat that loves to stare out the window. This perch, which can hold up to 60 pounds, will attach to just about any window or glass door in seconds with the strong suction cup mounting system that is easy to figure out (no tools needed).

Measuring 27” x 20” x 7.5”, this product boasts an enclosed design to provide extra comfort and security to your pet. It also comes with the Amazin’ Kitty Pad, which is soft, warm, and perfect for napping and lounging. The opening on each side makes it simple for your cat to jump into and out of this window perch whenever she desires, and the bubble lets your pet see what’s going on in the house as well.

Available in two colors, tan and green, this product comes with a 1-year limited warranty.

Note: A similar product is the K&H Pet Products EZ Mount Window Pod Kitty Sill, which also provides a secure enclosed perch that your cat can use every day. The main difference is that this one doesn’t have the bubble that lets your cat see out the back of it to be aware of what’s going on inside the house too.

Kitty Cot Original World’s Best Cat Perch

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Next up, there’s the Kitty Cot Original World’s Best Cat Perch, which features patented giant suction cups that allow you to mount it securely to any window without the need for any tools. It can hold up to 25 pounds, so it can work for one kitty or two cats that want to cuddle together while checking out what’s going on outside.

This product, which measures 25.5” x 14”, is made of lightweight PVC. It also features tough fabric that is weather-resistant and easy to clean in a sink or tub. The hammock style is sure to be a hit with your furry companions who enjoy being up high to take in the views all around them.

Note: If you notice that the suction cups are becoming worn or weak, you can replace them by purchasing the Kitty Cot Original World’s Best Cat Perch Giant Replacement Suction Cups.

PetFusion Ultimate Window Cat Perch

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Don’t like the idea of setting up a perch using suction cups on your window? No problem! Check out the PetFusion Ultimate Window Cat Perch instead. Designed to be sturdy and safe, it combines the features of a climbing post, scratcher, and window perch all in one.

Although this product has a base that allows you to set it up near a window, you can use the three heavy-duty suction cups that are included to firmly attach the top platform to a window and make it more secure. Your cat can use this product for climbing, lounging, and scratching. The top platform measures 20.5” x 16.5”, the base measures 16” x 12”, and it measures 44” tall. Plus, it comes with catnip, a pad for the platform at the top, and three sisal posts. You can even purchase replacement posts whenever necessary to make it like new again.

Made of engineered wood, this product does require assembly, but it comes with easy-to-follow instructions so you can do it quickly. When you need to clean this perch, you can spot clean it using mild soap and hot water. Be sure to pat it dry with a clean towel, and use a lint brush to remove cat hair that has accumulated on it.

Give Your Cat the Best Seat in the House with a Window Perch!

Most kitties really enjoy being near a window so they can look outside and see the local wildlife, smell the breeze, and spend time basking in the sunshine. With the right window perch, such as one of the products listed above, you can let your furry friend take in the best views while feeling secure and comfortable. Whether you think your kitty would prefer a platform or an enclosed perch, there’s something for every feline, and you might even decide to purchase more than one style to give your pet plenty of variety.

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Lisa Selvaggio
Lisa Selvaggio

Lisa Selvaggio is a freelance writer and editor, and our resident cats-pert, with certifications in pet nutrition and pet first aid. She enjoys producing content that helps people understand animals better so they can give their pets a safe and happy home.

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Furry friends bring a new twist to traditional yoga.

Urine Tests Could Now Provide Early Detection of Cancer in Dogs

Cancer doesn’t discriminate – it affects all creatures around the world, including our cherished pets. Learning that your  dog has cancer can be such a devastating thing, but sadly, it is so common nowadays. John Robertson, research professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics at Virginia Tech says in his interview for  WTOP News  that “one in four dogs will be diagnosed with cancer,” and that “by the time they’re middle-aged, 50% of dogs will die of cancer after the age of 10 years.”Professor Robertson is part of a vast research team that has developed an innovative new noninvasive rapid test that utilizes a dog’s urine and allows potential early detection of cancer. “Usually, when a dog gets diagnosed with cancer, it’s usually quite advanced, with visible signs — we’re trying to detect cancer before these physical symptoms appear,” said fellow researcher Ryan Senger, associate professor in the Department of Biological Systems Engineering. “Cancer is going to change overall metabolism inside the body, and it’s going to change the way the kidneys function, which can be observed in the urine screening process,” Senger added.Through samples of dog urine, the research team discovered that cancerous subjects amongst the observed molecules had a unique “fingerprint” that could be used to indicate the presence of cancer. “We would like to be able to have dogs screened earlier, before cancer develops, throughout their lifetime, perhaps a once-a-year urine specimen,” said Robertson. “That tells us what the molecular fingerprint of the urine is, so if it changes and falls into that realm of fingerprints that define cancer, we’d be able to pay more attention to figure out what’s going on with the dog.”Robertson also added that there are 12 breeds of purebred dogs that have a much higher incidence of cancer. “We’re going to focus on being able to institute early, regular screening that’s going to help pick up earlier when they’re developing cancer, in the hopes that we can get better outcomes.”However, veterinary care is typically subsidized by the owner, Robertson emphasized, which is opposite to medical care, which is often paid for by insurance. “So, we intend to make our tests readily available at a price point that everyone can afford to regularly have their dog examined and screened.”, the professor added. Robertson said that urine screening is currently being researched, to determine whether it could be applied to humans as well, potentially bringing great changes to the discovery of cancer cells. The team’s findings were published in  Frontiers in Veterinary Science and make us very optimistic for the future of preventive veterinary medicine – an inexpensive, accurate way to screen for a potentially fatal illness could be life-changing for so many pets and their owners. Not to mention the implications if such a test could be adapted to be used on humans, as well! 

Do You Need to Clean A Cat's Teeth?

Cats are known and adored for their free spirit, their stubborn nature, their agility, and their cute and cuddly side as well. They are skilled hunters, and as such they have sharp and perfected teeth. But while a cat roaming the outdoors would gnaw and eat prey she previously caught when you have a pet cat, those same teeth are used to eat a very different kind of food. Naturally, this can have a big impact on your cat’s dental health, as the same principles that were true in nature are not applicable for indoor-only cats anymore – which brings up an important question: do you need to clean a cat’s teeth? How important is this for their hygiene? And most importantly, how do you do it? Let’s take a closer look at this question.Do You Need to Clean A Cat's Teeth?Just like for us humans, dental care is important for kitties too. Of course, human and feline teeth are totally different, so dental hygiene is not exactly the same for both. Cat teeth are not brushed as often as our own, but nevertheless, you should provide some level of dental hygiene to your four-legged friend, as it can be a great benefit for their health. Neglect their little chompers for a long time, and their teeth could deteriorate over the years. This can lead to great discomfort, pain, loss of appetite, and from there – many other problems as well. So, in short, keeping your cat’s teeth clean and maintained is an essential aspect of caring for them. Of course, regular vet checkups will give you a good insight into their dental health and will allow you to spot problems early on and tackle them more easily. But it also goes a long way to know the tips and tricks that help maintain a cat’s dental hygiene. Here are just a few:Regular Brushing

What to Know About Osteoarthritis in Cats

Osteoarthritis, also referred to as OA, is a condition that’s common in cats – experts have found that 90% of kitties over the age of 12 have it. And because cats may hide the signs, it can be overlooked, so it’s a good idea to learn about the symptoms and keep an eye out for them, especially as your pet gets older. The good news is, if your feline friend is diagnosed with this condition, there are things you can do to help her experience less pain.

Does Your Dog Have What it Takes to Be a B.A.R.K. Ranger?

Is your dog your favorite adventure buddy? Do you dream of exploring America’s National Parks system with your furry best friend by your side? While many parks have limitations on where dogs are allowed, the popularity of pet-friendly travel is on the rise. In response, the U.S. National Park Service introduced a program to teach dog parents how to travel with their pups responsibly – the B.A.R.K. Ranger Program. But does your dog have what it takes to be a B.A.R.K. Ranger? What is involved in earning that title anyway? In this article, we will break down the B.A.R.K. principles and why they are so important for responsible outdoor travel. We will also share tips for helping your dog become a certified B.A.R.K. ranger. What Does the Acronym “B.A.R.K.” Stand For? Let’s start at the beginning—what exactly is the B.A.R.K. Ranger program, and what does the acronym “B.A.R.K.” stand for? Recognizing that a growing number of dog parents wanted to bring their pups with them when visiting the parks, the U.S. National Park Service recognized a need for education on how to travel with dogs responsibly. This means focusing on the importance of respecting the environment, local wildlife, and other visitors to the park. This program is a partnership between the National Park Service (NPS) and the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT). It is part of the Healthy Parks Healthy People Initiative, which is focused on the idea that “parks can be gateways to good health – for people and the planet.” The B.A.R.K. acronym stands for: B – Bag your pet’s wasteA – Always leash your petR – Respect wildlife K – Know where you can goThe concept is similar to the traditional Leave No Trace principles but focuses on how a dog may impact the environment and the overall park experience. What Are the Qualifications to Become a B.A.R.K. Ranger? The good news is that the requirements to become a B.A.R.K. Ranger are very broad. The program is open to dogs of all ages, breeds, sizes, and activity levels. From the senior chihuahua who prefers to be carried along the trail while still enjoying the fresh air to the high-energy Border Collie who could hike for days without stopping, all are welcome! So, does your dog meet the qualifications? As long as they are dog – YES!What is the Process of Getting Your Dog’s B.A.R.K. Ranger Certification? This is where the conversation becomes a little more complicated. While the B.A.R.K. Ranger program is a National Park Service program, the exact requirements to be named a B.A.R.K. Ranger vary from park to park. This allows each park to customize the program to best suit its area and the needs of those who visit each park specifically. At some parks, you will be asked to take a booklet and fill it out. Once you have completed the booklet, you will receive your commemorative leash tag. At other parks, a program is offered that you will attend to learn more about the B.A.R.K. principles and how they can be applied in your travels. Finally, some parks make it incredibly easy. They ask those interested to learn about the B.A.R.K. principles at home before coming to the park. Upon arrival, the dog's parents are asked if they understand and agree with them. They then take a pledge to follow these principles before their dog is given the coveted title.

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.

How Do I Make a DIY Nail Board for My Dog?

Maintaining your dog’s nails is essential to their overall health and well-being, but it can be challenging if your dog is uncomfortable with the nail clippers and other standard tools. While you could pay to bring your dog to the veterinarian each time a trim is needed, there are other options.Our pup Lucifer is nervous anytime someone touches his paws as a result of injuries to his front legs as a young rescue pup. This means that nail trims are a source of extreme anxiety.While we continue working on counterconditioning and helping him overcome his fears, we knew we needed to find a solution for the here and now. Enter the DIY nail board – a simple, budget-friendly alternative to that dreaded nail trim. The board is an oversized nail file that you then train your dog to use at their own pace. It’s a great way to build your dog’s confidence and strengthen your bond while keeping their nails in shape.Can I Use a Regular Nail File on My Dog’s Nails?While you could use a regular human nail file on your dog’s nails, it likely isn’t going to do the job. A dog’s nails are far stronger than our fingernails. Most emery boards and standard nail files will fail to make a dent in their surface, with many falling apart from the wear. If you want a nail file that can be used on your pet, I recommend purchasing a product specifically for dogs, like the Coastal Pet Safari Dog Diamond Nail File.What is a Scratch Board for Dogs?A scratch board is like a nail file; it provides a coarse surface that will help wear your dog’s nails down. The difference is that it is larger in size. Rather than bringing the file to a dog’s nails, the dog is trained to paw at the board and file their nails down. This means they are in complete control over when their nails touch the surface, which is much more comfortable for dogs that may suffer from stress or anxiety. It also means no one will need to handle their paws during nail care.Do Scratch Boards Work for Dog Nails?Yes! If your dog is taught to use a scratch board, they are a highly effective way of filing down their nails. This works much like how their ancestor’s nails would be worn down in the wild. As a dog runs and walks on rough surfaces or digs through coarse dirt, the tiny particles of dirt and stone wear away at the nail.Domesticated dogs may spend some time outdoors running around or digging, but many don’t engage in these behaviors as much as they would in the wild. They aren’t foraging for food daily or running to avoid predators and hunt down prey. This is why domestic dogs need regular nail maintenance, but wild dogs like wolves and coyotes function fine without this additional level of care.As your dog digs at or scratches the board, their nails run along the coarse surface. This allows you to fast-track the wear and tear they would naturally experience.Where Do I Get a Dog Scratch Board?You can purchase a nail board online or at your local pet store, depending on your preferences and budget. You can also DIY your own nail board. Some of the unique commercially made scratch boards you may want to consider for your dog include: Skuun Dog Scratch Pad for Nails: This is a veterinarian-approved board with an anti-slip surface and treat pocket. Zenly Paws Dog Nail File Toy: It combines a scratch pad with a food puzzle toy to make training your dog to file their nails easier and more enjoyable. LovIntry M-Shaped Dog Scratch Pad for Nails: The unique M-shaped design makes it easier to file the nails further back on your dog’s paws if they only file their front nails on a flat board.

Watch As Adorable Shelter Dogs Pick Their Own Christmas Toys

The holiday season is associated with traditions and festivities as we gather with family, put up festive decorations, and exchange holiday gifts. For pet parents, these traditions often carry over to spoiling our furry companions. But what about the thousands of pets sitting in shelters and rescues around the world, waiting for their forever home?One rescue based in Ireland has embraced a heartwarming tradition since 2017. Each year, Dogs Trust Ireland collects donations from the public. Hundreds of donated toys are placed in a room, and the pets are brought in one at a time to select their perfect holiday gift. They record the selection process, sharing the adorable footage on their YouTube channel for animal lovers worldwide to enjoy. “The reason we love making the video so much is that it’s so special to witness each dog’s individual reaction. Some burst in the door and scatter toys everywhere in an excited frenzy, and when they choose ‘the’ toy, they do excited zoomies,” explained Corina Fitzsimons, Public Relations and Communications Manager. “For dog lovers, it doesn’t get much better than seeing dogs doing Zoomies! Others prefer people and, after a sniff, will come over for cuddles. Then there are those who test every toy three or four times before picking, and many of the Collies who find a plain ball, throw it at our feet, and look at us as if to say, ‘Please throw human,’ which we are happy to oblige with.” This year, a total of 54 dogs were recorded as they carefully made their selection. While some dogs quickly found that perfect holiday toy, others took as long as 20 minutes to settle on a favorite. The organization promises that every one of the 264 dogs in their care will receive at least one toy during the holiday season, thanks to the generous donations they received.

New Study Reveals Dogs Can Sniff Out Neurodegenerative Diseases

We all know that doggos have incredible noses and a superb sense of smell. It is tens of thousands of times stronger than our own. This makes us wonder – what secrets can such a sense of smell unveil? Many scientists consider the canine sense of smell a great potential to enhance human lives thanks to its accuracy. And that is exactly what was unveiled in a recent study published in “bioRxiv”, by researchers Samuel V. Johnston and Lisa Holt from Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory. Thanks to their efforts, and the incredible abilities of doggos, it was revealed that our four-legged friends have the potential to detect neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson’s. Parkinson’s disease is a terrible condition, affecting primarily seniors. What is even worse is that this disease has many difficulties in diagnosis, which prevents doctors from accurately identifying the disease in the early stages. But the breakthrough study could change all that! Thanks to doggos and their powerful noses, we could be on the brink of completely changing the way Parkinson’s is diagnosed. “Dogs have an extraordinary olfactory capability, which far exceeds that of humans. Dogs’ sense of smell seems to be the main sense, allowing them to not only gather both current and historical information about their surrounding environment, but also to find the source of the smell, which is crucial for locating food, danger, or partners for reproduction.”  writes Agata Kusiak, from the Institute of Animal Sciences, Warsaw University. “Dogs can be trained by humans to use their olfactory abilities in a variety of fields, with a detection limit often much lower than that of sophisticated laboratory instruments.”Utilizing this remarkable sense of smell, scientists trained 23 dogs of different breeds and backgrounds, to successfully differentiate between samples of both Parkinson’s-positive individuals and Parkinson’s-negative individuals. The results were more than successful, with the dogs showcasing 86% sensitivity and 89% specificity in distinguishing the samples. In many ways, this is a revolutionary study and opens new doors and new possibilities in medical diagnostics. What is even better, it offers new hope for the timely detection of Parkinson’s disease. However, it is important to note that the study is still in relative infancy, and is still awaiting peer review. But the potential here is incredible. If validated, the study could help improve patient outcomes, and help with early diagnosis of this troubling disease.

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.

How Much Outdoor Time Does My Dog Need?

Spending time outside is very important for overall physical and mental health, both for humans and animals alike. Our pets, dogs especially, can be quite dependent on the time they spend outdoors. It helps stimulate them, keep them mobile and active, and also helps them spend all that extra energy they have stored which in turn impacts their behavior for the better. But as it is with everything in life, there is always too little and too much of a good thing. So in the end, it does make you wonder – just how much outdoor time does your dog need? And, can you really overdo it? Let’s find out!How Much Outdoor Time Does My Dog Need?The amount of outdoor time your dog needs can vary based on factors such as their breed, age, health, and individual preferences of your dog. It can’t really be the exact same for all dogs out there. Just like humans, some pooches have preferences of their own. Some love to snooze and relax, and aren’t really fans of going outside and zooming about. Others, however, can’t get enough of adventures in the great outdoors. Still, in general, all dogs require at least a small amount of daily outdoor exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. With that in mind, these are some main factors that could influence the amount of time your pet needs to spend outside of the house:BreedDifferent breeds have different energy levels and exercise requirements. High-energy breeds like Border Collies or Labrador Retrievers may need more outdoor time compared to lower-energy breeds like Bulldogs or Basset Hounds. As you get to know your pet and the specifics of their breed, this too will become apparent. AgeAge plays a major role in dog energy levels. Puppies generally have more energy and may require several short play and exercise sessions throughout the day. Adult dogs on the other hand usually need at least 30 minutes to 2 hours of exercise per day, depending on the breed and individual needs, whereas seniors usually don’t have as much energy so one walk a day will do just fine for a pooch in his golden years.HealthDogs with certain health issues may have specific exercise restrictions. Consult with your veterinarian to determine an appropriate exercise plan for a dog with health concerns. Don’t overdo it with your dog, if the vet prohibits it. The same goes for seniors, who can’t really play all that much outside. SizeDog size is a big factor in determining energy levels and the need for outdoor fun. Smaller breeds may get sufficient exercise with a shorter walk or playtime, while larger breeds might need longer and more vigorous activities.Individual PreferencesSome dogs are more active and enjoy activities like fetching, running, or hiking, while others may be content with a shorter walk or playtime in the yard. On the other hand, some breeds, due to their inherent traits, might love relaxing outside, even when it's chilly. Others, though, will love the warmth and coziness found indoors. 

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