How To Prepare Your Home For A New Kitten

by Lisa Selvaggio

Published: March 19th, 2015

how to prepare your home for a new kitten

That adorable ball of fur needs more than just “Ohhhhs” and “Ahhhhs.” Here’s what you need to take care of before your new kitten arrives home.

Welcoming a new kitten into your family is definitely an exciting time, but there are certain things that you need to have in place and certain steps that you should take, both prior to and immediately following the introduction of your new baby. Let’s go over some tips that will ensure your home is ready for your little addition and you’ll be able to provide your kitty with everything she needs to be happy and healthy.

Buy the Necessary Supplies

In order to give your kitten everything that she will need to grow big and strong, you should gather all of your supplies ahead of time so that you need not worry about rushing out at the last minute to get something from the pet store.

Have a small litter box and non-clumping clay litter on hand, especially if your kitten is still too small to use clumping litter. You should also purchase a cozy cat bed and plenty of kitten-friendly toys that will keep your pet stimulated.

High-quality kitten food should also be purchased, along with bowls that are just for your kitten, especially since you will need to isolate your new baby for a few days if you have other cats in the house that need to be introduced gradually to their new sibling.

If you do not already have a carrier, you will need to purchase one as well that will comfortably hold your kitten whenever she goes on a car ride with you.

Set Up a Special Kitten Room

Choose a small room with an easy-to-clean floor that will serve as your kitten nursery. Whether you are adopting one kitten or more than one, you’ll need this space to give your baby a sense of security and help her begin to feel comfortable in her surroundings before being introduced to the rest of your house.

You can place your kitten’s litter box, food and water bowls, and bed in this room, making sure there is plenty of space between the litter and the food and water. Any toys that are safe enough to leave in the room with your kitten can also be left in there so she can play when you aren’t around (take any potentially dangerous toys with you when you leave the room). A scratching post is also a great addition to this nursery, as it will encourage your kitten to use it rather than your furniture.

Spend Plenty of Time with Your Kitten

Socialize your kitten by playing with her and letting her sit in your lap. Feel free to pet her around her face and ears, and touch her paws so that she gets used to being handled. This will make it easier for a vet to examine her and it will also make it easier for you to trim her claws because she will be used to being touched without being afraid.

If you can, create a routine that establishes when your kitten will eat, play, and sleep. Whenever your kitten gets tired during the day, though, let her sleep, as she definitely needs the rest. You may even choose to leave a small nightlight on in the room at night so that she can navigate the room if she is awake.

Let the Exploration Begin

Gradually allow your kitten to explore other rooms in your home. Make sure you secure any dangerous items and keep them away from your kitten, but also put away any delicate items that you don’t want damaged by your rambunctious kitty. This is the perfect opportunity to establish boundaries with regards to where your kitten can scratch and where she is allowed to play safely. Remember, your kitten will be really curious and she may squeeze herself into spaces that can be dangerous, so always keep a close eye on your pet at the beginning.

After your first kitten, you will be a pro at introducing a new baby into your home. Be patient, be gentle, and your kitty will grow to love and trust you for the rest of her life.

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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Tips for Preparing Your Cat for a New Baby

Congrats on your new human addition! Start things off on the right paw with these tips on introducing your cat to a new baby. Having a new baby is a big change for everyone. But it can be especially difficult for your cat, who is a creature of habit, to adjust to such a big shift in your household. How can you prevent your cat from becoming upset by your new baby and all of the unfamiliar sounds and smells that accompany an infant? Continue reading for a few tips that will help you prepare your cat for baby’s arrival. Related: How To Introduce Your Dog To A New Baby Gradually Change Your Cat’s Schedule When your baby comes home, your schedule will shift dramatically and become pretty chaotic. Your cat won’t appreciate the sudden changes and may become stressed as a result. Therefore, it’s a good idea to gradually change his schedule and habits prior to the baby’s arrival. Start by thinking about the times of day that you’ll be able to clean the litter box, play with your cat, and feed him. Then slowly start to follow this new schedule by gradually changing the times at which you and your cat enjoy these activities. Related: First-Time Parent Jitters About Fur And Human Babies Having this schedule sorted out before the baby arrives will also ensure that you don’t end up neglecting your cat. He’ll already be used to getting extra attention from you at certain times and less attention at other times throughout the day. Decide if Your Cat Will Be Allowed in the Baby’s Room You and your spouse should decide if the baby’s room will be off-limits to your cat. If your cat won’t be allowed in the baby’s room: Move any pieces of furniture that your cat enjoys sitting on to another area of the house so that he’ll still have access to them.Start to restrict your cat’s access to the room before the baby arrives. Use a tall baby gate or simply keep the door closed to train him that the area is off-limits.Place a cat tree or cat bed outside the baby’s bedroom door so that he can still be near you while you’re in there.It’s also a good idea to keep some cat treats in the baby’s bedroom so you can leave treats for your kitty each time you go into the room to spend time with your baby. This will reward him for staying outside while ensuring he doesn’t feel neglected or left out.Never punish your cat for going into the baby’s room. Instead, gently pick him up and take him out of the room. You don’t want to instill fear or aggression, and you don’t want him to associate negative experiences or emotions with your baby. If your kitty will be allowed in the baby’s room: According to the ASPCA, you can discourage your cat from jumping into your baby’s crib by filling up some empty soda cans with coins. Place these on the rim of your crib so your cat will knock into them when he tries to jump into it. The noise the cans make will dissuade him from trying to jump in again and will train him to stay out of the crib before your baby arrives.Give your kitty a cat tree or bed to relax in while inside the room. You can train him to stay in his place by using treats on the tree or in the bed as a reward. Expose Your Cat to Baby Smells and Sounds Expose your kitty to baby sounds, such as crying and cooing, before your infant comes home by playing these sounds on your computer or off a CD. As he listens to the sounds, offer him treats to create a positive association. Play these sounds at a low volume and gradually raise the volume over the course of a few weeks, making sure your cat is comfortable at each step. You can also expose your cat to baby smells by using products like diaper cream or lotion on your skin before playing with him. Make Your Cat Comfortable Around Your Baby Finally, after bringing your baby home, offer your kitty treats and praise when he’s safely near the baby. Don’t force him to come near you and the baby; instead, it’s best to let it happen naturally.

How to Bond With Your New Kitten

It’s more than love at first sight. Start off your relationship purr-fectly by doing all the right things to bond with your kitten. Bringing home a kitten as a new member of your family is an exciting and joyful experience. Even though kittens can definitely be a challenge because they’re so energetic, no matter what your kitten’s personality is like, it’s important to spend time with her so that she can learn your rules and so she can realize that you’re going to be her new best friend. We want to make sure that this relationship starts off on the right paw. That’s why we’ve put together a few tips that can help you bond with your new kitten so that she’ll learn to trust you and love you forever. Related: 6 Valuable Tips for New Cat Owners Give Your Kitten Her Own Room To help your kitten feel safer and at ease, choose a small room that she can stay in so she can get to know her surroundings in a calm and quiet environment. The room should have everything that your kitten needs to feel right at home, including a warm and cozy cat bed, food and water bowls, a litter box, a scratching post, and some kitten-safe toys (avoid leaving strings, small balls, and small objects in the room, as these are choking hazards). It’s also a good idea to keep your other pets out of the kitten room until she becomes acclimated to the space. In the event that you don’t have a spare room for your kitten, you can instead set up a similar area anywhere else in your home where your cat can be warm and safe. You only need to isolate your kitten like this for the first day or two, but make sure that you regularly check on her and spend plenty of time with her so that she can get to know you along the way. Related: How To Prepare Your Home For A New Kitten Take Things Slow Because kittens can be scared of their new surroundings and the new people that they’re around, it’s a good idea to keep her near you as much as possible. The key, though, is to be near her without forcing her to interact with you. For example, you may be in your bedroom with your kitten, letting her play and safely explore while you watch TV. This will prove to her that it’s safe to be around you while giving her safe space. Of course, you want to pet your kitten and interact with her as much as possible, but try to find a balance, and avoid forcibly picking her up and holding her, as this could cause your kitten stress. Allow her to be left alone when she needs to be, let her hide if she’s frightened, and be reassuring as you encourage your kitten to come to you. With gentle consistency and patience, your kitten will quickly become comfortable with snuggling up to you and letting you hold her, especially if she was already socialized before she was adopted. Play with Your Kitten If your kitten were still with her siblings, she would be playing with them throughout the day, so one of the best ways that you can bond with your new furry friend is by playing with her. Purchase a few different types of cat toys, such as balls, stuffed toys, a wand with feathers on the end, etc. Use these to interact with your cat and to simulate a hunt so that she can practice “taking down prey.” Make sure you let her win every now and then, and you can also give her some treats to recreate the act of winning a hunt. Avoid letting your kitten chew on and scratch your hands, as this behavior will be hard to break if she thinks it’s okay to go after hands as a form of play. And when she’s older, with bigger claws and teeth, it won’t be cute or fun anymore. Enjoy Kittenhood Kittens grow up quickly, so enjoy the experience of having an adorable little fur-baby running around the house and snuggling up for a nap with you. Before you know it, your tiny kitten will be full-grown and probably so confident that she’ll be calling the shots.

How To Prevent And Prepare For Fire Safety In Your Pet-Friendly Home

July 15 is National Pet Fire Safety Day. Here’s what you can do to ensure that your pet and home are safe from flames and smoke. Remember the tale of Mrs. O’Leary’s cow? Yes, the one rumored to have knocked over a lantern while being milked. It ultimately started the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 that leveled thousands of buildings and killed 300 residents. What could she have done differently? Well, her decision to set an open flame by the back end of a restless cow in a barn full of dry straw would have been a good place to start! Related: 5 Important Tips On Dog Proofing Your Balcony What about you? What steps have you taken to safeguard your home from determined dogs and curious kitties that are as ignorant to the perils of fire as Chicago’s bossy? With July 15 marking National Pet Fire Safety Day, and stats showing approximately 1,000 house fires are started by our little guys each year, it’s time to take a pro-active approach to safeguarding your home. Prevent: Don’t leave your pets unattended around an open flame and make sure to thoroughly extinguish any flame before you leave home.If your pooch is big enough to help himself to goodies off the counter, he’s big enough to accidentally turn your stove on. Remove stove knobs when you leave the house; this is the number-one cause of fires started by pets.Flameless candles are a great alternative to the real thing and take the danger out of your pet knocking over a lit flame.Avoid glass water bowls on wooden decks as the sun’s rays can use them as a magnifying glass, heating up the deck and starting a fire. Opt for stainless steel or ceramic.Secure younger pets when you’re heading out. Keep them away from potential fire-starting hazards by crating or using baby gates in secure areas. Related: Do You Have An Emergency Plan For Your Dog? Prepare: Consider using monitored smoke detectors. They are connected to a monitoring center that allows emergency responders to be contacted when your pets are trapped.Affix a Pet Alert Window Cling: Write down the number of pets inside your house and attach the static cling to a front window. This critical information saves rescuers time when locating your pets. Make sure to update the number of pets listed.Keep collars on pets and place leashes near the door so first responders can use them to lead pets to safety. Pets are often waiting at doors and run out when firefighters come in.Know where your pets hide, as this may be the first place they go if there is a fire. Make sure your neighbors have this information in case fire breaks out when you aren’t home.Plan to bring your pet’s carrier when you evacuate the house. It can be a safe and comforting place for your pet to be, especially when the fire truck arrives.

How to Prepare For Your Kitten’s First Vet Visit

Before the big day, be prepared! First impressions are important, and you want to make sure your kitten’s first vet visit goes smoothly. Whether you’re a new pet owner, a new cat owner, or you’re planning to bring home a new kitten, it’s always good to review the following protocol for visiting the vet for the first time with your adorable furball. Making the Appointment One of the first things to do after you get your brand new kitten is to make a vet appointment. No matter from where you got your kitten, you want them checked out by an feline expert. Call your local vet and make an appointment. Note if the vet has a special feeding requirements, or wants you to bring something such as a stool sample. Some vets ask for stool samples since shelters often have problems with worms, and a fecal float is the best way to ensure your cat isn’t sick. Related: How To Calm A Hyper Kitten If this is your first visit with a kitten, ask about fees and procedures on the phone. You don’t want to be surprised by a giant vet bill! It’s best to know in advance, and to plan (and budget). If you adopted your cat from a shelter or bought her from a breeder, then you should already have paperwork detailing her medical history. At 12 weeks, the age most shelters and breeders allow you to take your kitten home, she should have already had some shots, include the three-way vaccine. Your shelter or breeder will tell you whether you need the booster shots for this. The Big Day On the day of your actual visit, your kitten should be in a secure pet carrier. Invest in a carrier that will fit your adult cat later in life, since it’s good practice to transport your cat in a carrier wherever you go. If your cat is unhappy in her carrier, talking to her and reassuring her while in the waiting room might help her calm down. Though if you’re the person with a loud kitten, no one minds; most people in the vet office have gone through a similar plight at one point! Related: The Stages of Kitten Development Once you get called into the examination room, you can take her out of the carrier. Most cats like to inspect the area, see what’s up, and potentially hide in a cupboard. Your vet will probably stop that from happening, and start to do a simple examination. In a routine examination, your vet will check your cat’s teeth, measure her temperature, check her organs through palpation, listen to her heart, test her mobility, check her eyes and ears and lastly check for any signs of fleas. If your kitten hasn’t had regular vet coverage, or was a stray, your vet will most definitely take blood tests as a precaution to check out its health. Although it can be upsetting for you to watch, remember that the vet knows what they’re doing, and they’re taking the best care of your kitten. If your cat has not be spayed or neutered, your first vet visit would be the time to bring it up. There are a lot of advantages to spaying or neutering your kitten, the most notable of which is helping curb cat overpopulation. And let’s talk about declawing – don’t do it. In fact, most vets won’t do it. The practice has been condemned by many organizations, and for good reasons. Instead of declawing your cat, talk to your vet about what it would take to trim your cat’s nails regularly. If your kitten is healthy and all up to date with her vaccines, your vet will advise that you do a follow up in a year, and send you home. Congratulations! Once you get home, reward your kitten with cuddles, treats, and assurance that she did great. And even if she didn’t do great, no worries… you only have to do this once a year!

How to Kitten Proof Your Home

Kittens get into everything – they’re curious, playful and can’t help themselves! Get down to their level and kitten proof your home! Kittens are high-energy pets who tend to get themselves into just about everything in your home, crawling low and climbing high as they search and attempt to destroy whatever gets in their path. To a kitten, dangerous, delicate, and expensive objects can be viewed as toys. Before your new fur baby joins the family, it’s a great idea to take steps to kitten proof your home to keep her out of trouble and out of harm’s way. Related: How to Bond with Your New Kitten Remove Potentially Hazardous Objects There are a variety of seemingly harmless objects around your harm that could actually cause harm to a small kitten. Thread, ribbons, plastic bags, dental floss, strings, yarn, rubber bands, hair ties, cat toys with strings, and even the cords that hang from your window treatments are just a few examples of objects that can serve as playthings but that can also lead to strangulation and choking. Your kitten may also end up swallowing these, which can lead to a deadly obstruction in the intestines. Remove potentially dangerous objects from your kitten’s environment by storing them away in an area that she can’t access. Tie the cords on window treatments, and only allow your cat to play with potentially dangerous toys, such as wands with strings, when you’re there to supervise and lead the way. Avoid Electrocution and Fire Your kitten is likely to find your electrical cords and start chewing away, and this alone could kill her, as well as potentially cause a fire. To prevent accidents, organize and tuck away electrical cords or cover them with thick, chew-proof plastic casing. If your kitten is teething, purchase some toys specifically designed to help her chew in a safe manner until she feels better. It’s also a good idea to not light candles when your kitten is around because she could knock them over and cause a fire. Either place them in a high, inaccessible area, or just avoid having open flames anywhere in your home. Related: The Stages of Kitten Development Put Medications and Cleaning Products Away Medications and cleaning products may contain ingredients that are toxic to felines. First off, only give your kitten medications that are prescribed to her by her veterinarian. And when it’s time for you to take medicine, make sure you don’t drop any on the floor where your kitten can accidentally ingest it. Pick up any pills that you drop, make sure all bottles are closed tightly, and store the bottles in a cabinet that your kitten can’t access instead of than leaving them on the countertop. In the same way that you carefully close and store medications, you should do the same with cleaning products. When using these products, especially if you have to spray a product and let it sit for a few minutes, make sure your kitten is kept out of the area. Remove Toxic Plants and Pesticides from Your Home There are many common houseplants that are toxic to felines, and kittens really enjoy chewing on plants. Castor beans, rhododendrons, sago palms, lilies, and oleander are just a few examples of some of the many dangerous plants that people may bring into their homes when they have cats. In addition to keeping certain plants out of your home, you should also get rid of things like potpourri that your kitten might be tempted to chew on, as scented oils may be deadly when consumed by cats. Also, avoid using harsh pesticides and opt for natural alternatives so that your kitten won’t be exposed to the toxins that can lead to illness. Keep the Toilet Lid Closed If you don’t make it a habit of keeping your toilet lid down, you should start as soon as you bring your kitten home. Kittens that jump into the toilet when you aren’t around can drown. And if you use chemical-based cleaners in your toilet, your kitten may also be poisoned if she ingests the water. Always Know Where Your Kitten Is Kittens like to hide quite a bit, so try to always have an idea of where your kitten is. Because they’re so small, they can easily get stuck somewhere, and even your furniture can be hazardous. So before you open or close your recliner, as an example, make sure your kitten isn’t under there. A little bit of common sense goes a long way when it comes to keeping your new kitten safe. Before you know it, she’ll be a full-grown adult who isn’t as energetic and knows her boundaries. But in the meantime, kitten proof your home to keep her happy and healthy.

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As cat parents, we all love our feline family members. But that love doesn’t erase the frustration that comes with your cat turning into a furry alarm clock at precisely 3 am every morning. Why are they even up at that hour?In this article, we’ll address exactly that—the reasons for your cat’s nighttime activities and the steps you can take to reclaim your sleep once and for all.Let’s not waste any time…Why Does My Cat Wake Me Up Every Night? Having your sleep disturbed by your cat every night can be frustrating. But before you get upset with your furry friend, consider asking yourself why. Why are they waking you up? Why are they unable to settle in? There is a possibility that this could be your cat’s way of asking for or alerting you to something important. Here are a few of the more common reasons: Pain or Medical Problems This is most common in cats that once used to settle in fine and are now changing their nighttime routine. If your cat is feeling “off,” whether it’s due to discomfort or pain, it may be preventing them from relaxing or sleeping at night. To rule this out, you must make an appointment with your veterinarian. Pay careful attention to any other signs of trouble, including: Panting Changes in eating habits “Accidents” or failure to use their litterbox like usual Excessive vocalization (meowing, howling, hissing)Loss of interest in toys, furniture, or activities they once loved Overgrooming or failure to groom Hiding or reluctance to be handledIrritability or uncharacteristic aggression When you speak with your veterinarian, explain all behavior changes or reasons for concern that you have recorded. If you're unsure, we recommend keeping a journal. This will help you spot patterns and red flags. Feline Dementia Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS) in cats is similar to Alzheimer’s disease in humans. As our cats get older, one of the unfortunate age-related symptoms they suffer is a change in their mental state. They may start to act confused, seem unfamiliar with their surroundings, stare blankly into space, or struggle to follow household rules that were once deeply ingrained. If your cat has CDS, they may vocalize loudly at night because they don’t remember where they are or can’t find you. This behavior is often a sign of feeling anxious, fearful, or stressed out. Cat parents who know they have a kitty with CDS may need to keep their cat in a contained “safe place” at night to prevent them from wandering and becoming lost, as it can be incredibly distressing for them. Feeling Hungry Do you have a cat that is highly food-driven? I do! Speaking from experience, an empty food dish can trigger quite a commotion. Our food-driven cat Jinx is quick to let us know when she’s hungry and doesn’t have access to something tasty. In the same way, it could also be your cat’s way of letting you know that their water dish or fountain is running low. Lack of Daytime Activity/Stimulation Cats require mental and physical exercise throughout their day to live a happy, healthy life. When they don’t have this, they can feel bored and exhibit “bad” behaviors like scratching furniture, tearing about the toilet paper, overgrooming, or becoming overly vocal. Much like the cats who are trying to communicate that their food or water dishes are empty, these cats are trying to tell you that they are missing something essential in their lives. It is most common in cats living in a smaller space with few opportunities to engage in their natural behaviors, such as climbing, scratching, hunting, and hiding. Feeling Lonely Despite their aloof and sassy personalities, cats are actually social animals. This is why you find stray cats living in colonies. Your cat’s social needs can be met by you, other people in the house, a second cat (or third or fourth…), or even another animal, like a dog. But they need to have someone they can connect with. Are you your cat’s person? Even if you spend a few hours focused entirely on them before heading to bed, your absence may be difficult for them. Cats can experience separation anxiety, even if the only separation is that you are in a different room, leaving them alone. Differing SchedulesCats are naturally most active at dawn and dusk, which is known as being crepuscular. While some cats will adjust their schedules to match their human family members a little closer, doing so goes against their natural instincts (unless you work a night shift). Other crepuscular pets include hamsters, rats, mice, rabbits, ferrets, and chinchillas. Your cat will likely wake up to get attention or play with you throughout the day, but they will also take many naps. Our cats spend much of their day stretched out in a patch of sunshine, soaking up the warmth and recharging. In general, cats are most energetic first thing in the morning as the sun rises and again just as the average person is getting ready for bed.

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Each year millions of cats and dogs enter shelters and rescues nationwide. Almost a million more animals have entered and lingered in the nation’s shelters in the last three years, resulting in an ongoing capacity crisis. Last year, 3.2 million dogs entered shelters and rescue organizations nationwide. More than 359,000 dogs were euthanized in 2023, compared to 330,000 cats that were euthanized last year. This marks a four-year peak in non-live outcomes for dogs and the first time the number of dogs euthanized has surpassed the number of euthanized cats.  These heartbreaking findings were published in an annual report of shelter populations compiled by Shelter Animals Count, an Atlanta-based nonprofit organization founded in 2012. “Everywhere you turn, the shelters are in crisis,” said the organization’s executive director Stephanie Filer. “It’s truly about an imbalance of animals coming in at faster rates than they’re leaving.”According to Filer, for years cats were considered most at risk because they entered shelters at high rates, but faced low adoption rates. However, focused efforts to reverse these trends are giving results, and the newest data shows a positive shift.“We have seen major positive change,” said Filer. “Adoption rates are high and intakes have decreased, and there are efforts to keep cats at home or in their communities.”Unfortunately, dog programs are suffering, with adoption rates significantly lower than in recent years. “Too many dogs are entering shelters and being left behind,” added Filer, according to USA Today. “Unlike cat adoptions, which continue to increase, dog adoptions have essentially flatlined.”When people think of animal shelters, most imagine scores of large-sized mixed breeds and pit bulls. But in reality, there are purebreds like huskies, French bulldogs, Labradors, and even designer dogs.The one thing no animal advocate thought possible happened - the rates of dog euthanasia surpassed the rates of cat euthanasia for the first time in a long time. “The real reason we’re saying, ‘Wow,’ is that it wasn’t that way for a lot of years. And now it is,” said Filer.More than 6.5 million cats and dogs ended up in U.S. shelters and rescues in 2023. While the number of intakes remained relatively steady, this was the fourth consecutive year of overpopulation. While more dogs were adopted in 2023 than in 2022, the adoption rates were insufficient to meet the demand.The high cost of living, job loss, and housing cost challenges are the main reasons adoption rates aren’t keeping up with animal intake. At the end of 2023, an additional 70,000 cats and 107,000 dogs are waiting for a forever home in one of the many shelters and rescues nationwide. “With more animals entering shelters than leaving, animal welfare organizations and their communities need to continue working together to keep pets in loving homes and out of shelters, including finding ways to increase access to veterinary care and advocating for pet-friendly housing policies,” said Matt Bershadker, president and the CEO of ASPCA.Experts agree that the promotion of shelter adoptions is the best way to solve the ongoing capacity crisis. Adopting an animal from a shelter saves a life, but it also supports the struggling shelters and their staff. Although adopting a cat or a dog from a shelter isn’t possible for everyone, there are other things you can do to help. Volunteering in your local shelter, fostering a pet, or donating are great ways to get involved and help alleviate the shelter crisis.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

According to ASPCA, These Are The Top 10 Pet Toxins of 2023

No matter how careful you are, accidents happen – this is particularly true when it comes to pet  poisoning cases. Not only that cats and dogs have some uncanny ability to get into stuff that they’re not supposed to get into, but you also can’t always know what things could be a potential toxin to them. And believe us when we say, there are a lot of potential pet toxins in an average household!The annual report by the  ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC)  only goes to prove this. Each year, they examine all the compiled data to determine which are the most commonly encountered pet toxins each year. It helps keep owners aware of the threats, and to keep vets always one step ahead. In 2023, the APCC was extra busy, having received hundreds of thousands of calls about items and substances that pets were exposed to. Incredibly, these substances totaled over 351,000!Even though they were contacted about such an imposing number of potentially hazardous substances, they managed to narrow down the most common culprits and compile the list of top 10 pet toxins in 2023, which will serve as a great reminder of what to look out for.Over-the-counter medications, including cold and flu medicines, ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and vitamins and supplements. With 16.8% exposure, these medications are the number one threat in 2023. Almost every home has some sort of medications stored, and they aren’t always expertly hidden. Accidentally, pets can discover them and suffer many dire consequences if they ingest them. Human food and drink are almost equally as dangerous, with 16.2% reported calls. A lot of what we consume daily is toxic to pets. This can range from common items such as raisins, onions, garlic, grapes, or sweets, to more rare items such as protein drinks and bars, xylitol gums, and energy drinks. If your pet gets their paws on any of these, it can end up in an emergency vet visit. Prescription medications for humans are very dangerous to pets, and many reports were made in regard to inhalers, ADHD medications, heart medications, and similar. Prescription medications are often strong drugs and definitely not meant for pets.Chocolate is the number 4 threat for 2023. A staggering 13% of calls were related to this sweet. Dogs are mostly found consuming it as cats do not have sweet taste buds or the appetite of dogs. Still, chocolate is not meant for pets and can cause many side effects.Veterinary products are at number 5 with 8.3% reported exposures. Callers reported ingestion of chewable tablets or soft chews, many of them used for calming pets. Owners are urged to keep medicines locked away, as pets can like their sweet taste and go after them when you are not looking. Plants and fungi accounted for 8.1% of exposures. Dogs are inquisitive and can find these plants on their outdoor adventures. But many plants can cause a threat to dogs, so make sure to acquaint yourself with a list of toxic plants to look out for.Household products are also on this list, with 7.1% of exposures reported. Pets consumed various dangerous items, such as deoxidizer packets, batteries, and various miscellanea lying around the house. Be aware of what’s lying around that’s easy to reach.Rodenticides are a major threat to pets. People can use poisons to get rid of pests, but our pets don’t know that. If they ingest them, it can be extremely dangerous, leading to kidney failure, bleeding, and even death. When you are out on walks, always be careful what is lying around. Insecticides are almost the same. People use bug sprays, ant baits, and poisonous powders all over the place. Always make sure that the area you are in is free from anything that can be a threat to your pet. Recreational drugs are last but not least. With substances such as marijuana becoming increasingly legal, pets can come in contact with them as well. But there are also hallucinogenic substances such as mushrooms, especially psilocybin, and muscarine, which can be very harmful to pets. 

Vet School Aims to Dispel Misinformation About Mysterious Illness

News about a mysterious illness has been making dog parents across the country nervous as they seek out available information. While there have been reported advances made in understanding the cause of the illness, many of the details are still vague, and a lot of “data” being shared by the mainstream media seems to be contradicting. How do you know what to believe?To help clarify the sea of information, Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine has published an educational hub on their website with information about the illness, Atypical Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (aCIRDC).This hub is divided into several categories: Prevalence, Clinical Signs, Pathogenesis, Screening, Treatment, Prevention, Travel, and News. The goal is to share reliable and actionable information for pet parents that will help them make smart, knowledge-driven decisions about their pet’s health, especially as we head into a busy time of travel during the holiday season.Reported Cases of IllnessAccording to the hub, there are currently reported cases of “a chronic respiratory disease with characteristics of aCIRDC” in 16 different states, including:CaliforniaColoradoFloridaGeorgiaIdahoIllinoisIndianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsNew HampshireNevadaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandVermontWashingtonOne of the most important things to note is the wording used by LSU Vet Med. This list is based on reported respiratory illnesses that have characteristics of the mystery illness, but it does not mean that the disease itself has been confirmed. Many respiratory infections and ailments present with very similar symptoms, including Canine Influenza and Bordatella.How to Prevent Illness in Your Dog This Holiday SeasonWhile there is no guarantee that the above states pose a higher risk of aCIRDC, veterinarians and other professionals recommend that pet parents take precautions to keep their pets safe. This is especially important as many of us plan to travel and visit family for the holidays. The following recommendations (as outlined by LSU Vet Med) will help to prevent your dog(s) from getting sick from any respiratory ailment, not just aCIRDC.Ensure Vaccinations are Up to DateWe currently don’t have enough understanding of aCIRDC for a preventative vaccination, but there are vaccinations for some respiratory illnesses. Check with your veterinarian that your dog is current on all routine vaccinations.Limit Exposure (Where Possible)If possible, avoid or limit bringing your dog to areas that put them at a higher risk of contracting a respiratory illness. This includes dog parks or shelter environments. Have a conversation with boarding and training facilities where dogs socialize to better understand their preventative measures, including cleaning and sanitization efforts. You should also ask about the vaccine requirements for dogs in their care and their plan for handling animals that show signs of being ill.Isolate Dogs with Signs of IllnessIs your dog showing signs that they may be ill? If so, isolation is critical. Don’t bring a potentially sick dog to public spaces, and do your best to keep them safely isolated from any other unaffected dogs in your home.

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.

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.

How Can I Prevent My Dog From Barking When They’re Home Alone?

Dogs are very affectionate beings, and can form incredible bonds with their owners – but this also means that they would love to be by their side at all times. Sometimes, however, this is just not possible. Their owners have to  work, go to the store, or finish chores out of home and they can’t always take their pets with them. And when you leave your pooch all by their lonesome, they often think it’s the end of the world – you’ve abandoned them for good, even when you’re away for like 25 minutes. This can result in anxiety, restlessness, and a lot of barking. Some dogs – in fact – just won’t stop barking or howling until you come back. How can you bring an end to this behavior, and prevent all the excess barking? And how can you let your pet know that leaving for a little bit is no big deal? Let’s find out. Battles with Barks: Why Dogs Bark When Alone and How to Stop ItExcessive barking when a dog is home alone can be a common issue for a lot of owners, and addressing it requires a combination of training, environmental management, and sometimes, the help of professionals. Above all, it requires patience. However, there are a number of factors that come into play when such situations occur. To make your dog calmer, quieter, and ready to accept your absence, you should take a closer look at the daily routine the two of you share.First, consider if you're providing enough physical and mental stimulation. Physical exercise is crucial for a dog's well-being. Keep in mind that a tired dog is generally a content and quieter dog. So, before you leave, make sure that they have ample exercise, fun, and outside time. If they “emptied their batteries”, they are more likely to remain calm and just snooze while you are out. Of course, to make sure you always fulfill these exercise requirements, you will have to establish a consistent daily routine. Just like humans, doggos too depend on the routine they can follow. This routine helps them feel secure and understand when to expect certain events like meals and walks. If they get used to a daily chain of events, they will expect you to leave and be okay with it.  Interactive toys that provide mental stimulation or dispense treats are also a great thing to utilize when battling anxiety or boredom-induced barking. They can help your dog stay occupied during your absence. As they get involved in playing with the toy, dogs will tire out, keep themselves busy, and not make such a big deal about your absence. With a toy, alone time can actually be enjoyable for a dog.

After 11 Long Years, a Cat That Was Presumed Dead Returns Home

Sometimes, miracles can truly happen when you least expect it! And if a pet story can be considered a real life miracle, it’s the one about Toby, a family cat that - it would seem - lived a life of great adventure. In 2012, Toby, the now 14-year-old cat of the Allan family from Warwickshire, suddenly disappeared after the family moved to a new house. It was a heartbreaking event for the entire family, but their pet was nowhere to be found. After many attempts to locate their cat, they simply had to come to terms with the fact that old Toby was lost, and presumably dead. But this week, after 11 long years, Toby was returned to the Allan family by a local woman. The lady checked the cat’s microchip and was quick to get in touch with Coventry Cats Protection."I never thought in a million years I’d see him again," said owner Justine Allan. "Toby was collected and will no longer have to scavenge for food and sleep in a cold bin store," added the Coventry charity co-ordinator Wendy Harris.Toby suddenly went missing in a chilly December in 2012, after the Allan family moved from Galley Common in Nuneaton, to their new residence at Long Shoot."[My son Charlie] was about 12 when Toby went missing, and he was heartbroken when we realized he probably wasn’t coming back," said Mrs Allan for  Yahoo "The Long Shoot is a notoriously busy road, we just assumed the worst had happened and thought he had been run over.”But almost a decade later, just 5 miles away a local Bedworth lady got in touch with Cats Protection, believing that a stray cat she was feeding was pregnant. A volunteer with the charity went out to investigate, a microchip scanner in tow. "It turned out, not only did it have a chip, but that he was a neutered male named Toby, rather than female as originally believed," said Ms. Harris.Blazingly fast, the charity managed to trace the details of the Allan family on their database, and got in touch to share the splendid news – their missing feline friend was re-discovered!Initially in complete shock, after 11 years, the Allan family rejoiced and celebrated and quickly went out to pick up their long-lost pet. During those 11 years, the family welcomed another pet into their home, a King Charles Cavalier named Bernie. But even so, Toby fits right back into the family dynamic. As if he wasn’t missing for more than a decade!

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