Best Freeze-Dried Fish Foods

by Kate Barrington

Published: November 9th, 2021

We’re going to explore the subject of freeze-dried fish food in greater depth. You’ll learn how to choose freeze-dried fish food, how best to feed it, and our top picks.

Feeding your aquarium fish is one of your biggest responsibilities. Without a healthy and balanced diet, your aquarium fish won’t reach their full potential for size and coloration. Choosing a high-quality fish food flake or pellet is a great place to start, but you should also supplement your fish’s diets with more nutritious options. Freeze-dried fish food is the perfect supplement to any balanced diet for aquarium fish and there are plenty of different options to choose from.

In this article, we’ll explore the subject of freeze-dried fish food in greater depth. You’ll learn how to choose freeze-dried fish food and how best to feed it – you’ll also receive our top 10 picks.

The Best Freeze-Dried Foods for Fish

Freeze-dried fish food is packed with nutrition and, because it has had the moisture removed, it is shelf-stable. Stock up on a few different kinds so your fish can enjoy a varied diet that provides plenty of nutrition. Switch up the type of freeze-dried food you offer your fish throughout the week to make sure they get a wide variety of healthy nutrients to support their total health and wellness.

Here are our top picks for the best freeze-dried fish food:

1. Editor’s Choice: Omega One Freeze-Dried Blood Worms

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Blood worms are a protein-rich treat for aquarium fish and this freeze-dried version is easy to store and serve. These blood worms are full of essential vitamins and minerals and freeze-dried rather than frozen to improve safety. This means that they are just as nutritious as live food, but minus the risk of introducing bacteria or parasites into the tank. Choose from a 0.96-ounce of 0.46-ounce container and feed as much as your fish can eat in two minutes.

2. Runner Up: Tetra Jumbo Krill Freeze-Dried Jumbo Shrimp

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A delicious alternative to blood worms, krill are a protein-rich supplemental food for large freshwater and saltwater aquarium fish. They are freeze-dried whole and are high in carotenoids which helps bring out pink and red coloration. Also, as these are complete freeze-dried krills with shells, they make an excellent source of roughage to support optimal digestion.

3. Best Brine Shrimp: Omega One Freeze-Dried Brine Shrimp

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Brine shrimp are a staple when it comes to live, frozen, and freeze-dried foods for fish. These are carefully freeze-dried as a safe alternative to live foods, free from potentially harmful pathogens like bacteria and parasites. Freeze-dried brine shrimp makes a great high-protein treat for both freshwater and saltwater fish.

4. Best for Stress: Sequoia Freeze Dried Daphnia Fish Food

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Fish can get stressed out. This happens in a smaller tank that you may have overfilled with fish and décor. But no matter the size of your tank there are always circumstances that can create stressful moments for you fish. That is why we love the Sequoia Frees Dried Daphnia Fish Food. Daphina is enriched with multi-vitamins that will help reduce stress or stress related illnesses. It’s extremely helpful if you have fish in your tank that aren’t really getting along. This food can be used in both freshwater and saltwater tanks. Another way you can help lower your fishes stress levels are to make sure they have places where they can hang out on their own, even in a small tank. Be sure that when you are feeding your fish the Sequoia Freeze Dried Fish Food make sure you spread it out evenly, so your fish don’t feel like they are completing for food.

5. Best Krill: San Francisco Bay Brand Freeze-Dried Krill

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These freeze-dried krill are a perfect treat for freshwater and saltwater fish alike. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and carotenoids, helping to bring out the natural pink, orange, and red coloration in your aquarium fish. In addition to enhancing fish color, this freeze-dried food is packed with essential nutrients needed to maintain high energy levels and vigor in your fish.

6. Best Plankton: Omega One Freeze Dried Plankton

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Freeze-Dried plankton are an excellent high-protein treat for all freshwater and saltwater fish – sourced from the Pacific, they are rich in vitamins and minerals and can be used as the primary source of energy and essential fatty acids for all of the fish in your tank. High in natural carotenoids, these freeze-dried plankton will also naturally encourage more vibrant fish color, making sure your fish look and feel their best. And, as an added benefit, since they are freeze-dried, there’s no risk of introducing harmful pathogens such as parasites and bacteria into the tank, which often happens with live fish food.

7. Best Bloodworms: San Francisco Bay Brand Freeze-Dried Bloodworms

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Blood worms are a favorite of many aquarium fish and these freeze-dried worms are easy to feed and store. They contain over 50% protein with 2% fat and they are completely irresistible to aquarium fish. A large 1.75-ounce container costs less than $20 as well, making it highly affordable.

8. Best Cubes: Hikari Bio-Pure Freeze-Dried Spirulina Brine Shrimp Cubes

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If you’re looking to boost your aquarium fish nutrition in a quick and easy way, try these spirulina brine shrimp cubes. Perfect for omnivorous freshwater or saltwater fish, you can break these cubes up and sprinkle them into the tank – and don’t worry, they won’t cloud the water. You’ll also be glad to know that they are enriched with essential vitamins to reduce stress and stress-related diseases in fish. The packaging is also perfected, with a patented ratcheting dispenser top for easy use and nitrogen charging to reduce oxidation prior to opening.

9. Honorable Mention: Hikari Bio-Pure Freeze-Dried Brine Shrimp

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Another excellent option from Hikari, these freeze-dried brine shrimp come in a 0.42-ounce container with a patented ratcheting dispenser top. They will not cloud your tank water and they are completely free from parasites and harmful bacteria. Simply sprinkle in as much as your fish can eat in about two minutes.

10. Also Consider: Hikari Bio-Pure Freeze-Dried Blood Worms

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Freeze-dried blood worms are rich in protein and full of flavor, making them a favorite for many aquarium fish. These come in a 0.42-ounce or 8-ounce container, so you’ll have plenty to last you as long as you need.

If you want your aquarium fish to live long and healthy lives, you need to provide them with a balanced diet. On top of your regular fish food flakes or pellets, consider including live, frozen, or freeze-dried foods several times a week as a boost of nutrition. Try one of our top picks reviewed above!

Tips for Feeding Freeze-Dried Food to Fish

Freeze-drying is a process that removes the moisture from the original food product. It is a method of preserving food without exposing it to the high heat processing that can destroy some of the nutritional value. Freeze-dried fish food comes in many different forms and it is easy to keep and feed.

Here are some simple tips for feeding your fish freeze-dried food:

Consider choosing freeze-dried over live foods because the freeze-drying process helps kill harmful pathogens.
Keep your freeze-dried food stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to keep it fresh.
Offer small amounts of freeze-dried fish food at a time – no more than your fish can consume within 5 minutes (any excess will break down and cloud your tank water).
Feed your fish small amounts of freeze-dried foods several times a week – your fish still need their staple diet, but these foods can add supplemental nutrients.
Choose a variety of different freeze-dried foods and offer them to your fish in rotation to keep things interesting and for balanced nutrition.
Make sure to purchase freeze-dried food from a reputable company to ensure that the ingredients are safe, and the manufacturing process removes potentially harmful pathogens like bacteria and parasites.

Now that you have a better idea of what freeze-dried fish food is and how to offer it to your fish, you’re ready to start shopping!

Is freeze-dried fish food better?

You have to feed a variety of foods to your fish to ensure they thrive in your tank, but there are certainly some advantages to freeze-dried fish food. It is much more convenient to store and use than plain frozen food, it can be crumbled if needed to feed smaller breeds, and maybe most importantly, unlike live food, it can’t contaminate the tank water with pathogens such as parasites or bacteria. All of these qualities make freeze-dried fish food popular with newbies and seasoned aquarists alike.

Can I refreeze frozen fish food?

No, you shouldn’t do that. Unlike freeze-dried fish food, frozen fish food is meant to be kept at a certain temperature, and once it thaws, it shouldn’t be refrozen as it would make it toxic to fish. Once the fish food is defrosted, it has to be used immediately or thrown out if not used.

Can baby fish eat freeze dried brine shrimp?

Yes, most baby fish will eat freeze dried brine shrimp. It is packed with proteins and essential nutrients baby fish needs to thrive and it can easily be consumed. If needed, crumble bigger pieces into fine dust before adding to the tank to ensure the fish can eat it with ease.

What to consider when buying freeze-dried fish food?

Freeze-dried fish food is usually single protein, but there are different sources of that protein: krill, bloodworms, plankton, shrimp, etc. Choose the type and protein content level that is optimized for the type of fish you have in your tank, always double-checking if it’s suited for saltwater or freshwater fish. There are also different forms, from cubes to whole organisms, so pick one that is easier to give to your fish (e.g. some breeds need smaller particles, so cubes are a better choice as they can be crushed).

What types of freeze-dried fish food are there?

Freeze-dried fish food makes a great supplement to saltwater and freshwater fish diets, as it is packed with vitamins, minerals, and has a high protein content. There are various types of freeze-dried foods for fish, but the most popular are brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, tubifex, plankton, and krill. Some are better suited for cold-water fish, others work best for tropical fish, and some are even suited for other aquatic creatures, such as turtles. Choose according to the type of fish you care for and their dietary requirements.

What is the difference between freeze-dried fish food and frozen fish food?

Freeze-drying process involves dehydrating food at very low temperatures, resulting in a product that retains its original cellular structure and important nutrients, while at the same time having a long shelf life and being easier to store. On the other hand, frozen fish food has to be kept in a freezer and used after thawing, without the option to re-freeze the leftovers as they would become toxic. The level of preserved nutrients is roughly similar in both freeze-dried and frozen fish food, the main difference is the ease of storing and serving, which is in favor of freeze-dried food.

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Kate Barrington

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

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PetRadar is a company like no other, helping desperate owners find their missing cherished pets. And now, after successfully reuniting 8,000 missing cats with their owners, the company has expanded to include missing dogs as well.According to the research done by  ASPCA, around 15% of all cats in the USA go missing over a five period. But that is not the worst of it. In just one year, around 10,000,000 dogs go missing in the United States alone. It is a truly alarming statistic, and PetRadar aims to change it for good. David Olthaar is the man behind PetRadar and created his brand almost spontaneously. The idea came to him when he saw a blurry “missing cat” poster on a rainy night. It was almost impossible for that poster to yield results. So he thought that a better way existed, especially in our day and age. And the result is PetRadar and its great success.  "We wanted to use social media ads for good. And what's better than reuniting lost pets with their owners?" David Olthaar said. Thanks to the benefits of the modern digital age, they used sponsored posts on social media to advertise the search for the missing cat in a 1km radius around its last address. The success was near instant. After the first missing cat was found, it became clear just how effective the idea was. "I remember when the first sighting of a lost cat came in. I couldn't believe it. Reuniting them was a beautiful moment. I was even invited for dinner as a thank you!"The idea soon became a major project and a successful worldwide system for finding missing pets. "After finding our 8000th missing cat, I knew we needed to start saving dogs, too!"So, after initially being named CatRadar, the company became PetRadar - expanding on missing dogs as well. And within a week, the first missing doggo had been reunited with his owners. We can only imagine the bright future that lies ahead of this project, and the happy end for many missing pets (and their owners) around the globe.

These Are The 10 Most Common Male and Female Dog Names, Survey Reveals

Naming a new puppy that’s come into the world or thinking of a name to symbolize a new beginning for a rescue dog is a precious moment – but sometimes you need a bit of inspiration to think of a fitting name for your fur baby. Some people prefer names with personal meaning or symbolism, but most just sift through name lists in hopes of finding one that fits our pooch and sounds nice. Well, this list can help you find the most popular names for dogs these days and see if any of them stick!  Sniffspot, the so-called “AirBnB of dog parks”, went through their massive database of 100,000 dog names and through hard work determined the 10 most common boy and girl dog names. The results are very interesting – take a look!Here are the top 10 male dog names:10. Leo:A very unique name that’s quick on the tongue, and very fitting for large and majestic doggos. A lion always comes to mind.9. Ollie:Believe it or not, Ollie is a gender-neutral name, but fits perfectly with energetic and goofy male puppers.8. Moose:Who would think that Moose is such a common dog name? It is fun, that is for sure, and strangely fitting too.7. Zeus:The mighty God of thunder in Ancient Greece has come a long way over the centuries. Nowadays, his name is given to dogs!6. Oliver:A classic, elegant, and fun name that, although used for humans, fits doggos as well. 5. Finn:An old-timey name that belongs on the pages of some good youth novel, Finn is remarkably fitting for puppers.4. Loki:The trickster god of the Old Norse has found his way into the modern age in a rather odd way. Lately, Norse gods are a popular choice for dog names.3. Bear:How adorable would it be to name your tiny little pup Bear? 2. Cooper:A simple but very fun name that works well for male pets of all characters and sizes.1. Milo:A very ancient-sounding name, Milo is the number one choice of many owners. Are you surprised that this is number 1? Well, you saw the most common names for boy dogs, so now it’s the girls’ turn. Let’s see their list!10. Sadie:This adorable female dog name, it brings to mind the summer, flowers, and all things girly.9. Nova:In stark contrast to Sadie, Nova sounds quite futuristic, and strong, and rolls easily off the tongue. Did you know that a Nova is an astronomical term? It is the name given to bright stars that appear suddenly in the sky and release powerful energy. Wonderful symbolism.8. Willow:Back to vintage and cozy-sounding names with Willow, a true classic that belongs to the pages of an old children’s book.7. Nala:Here’s a name that is quite a surprise. It is unique, modern, and not heard that often. But, according to this survey, it belongs with other most common female dog names!6. Stella:A name of Latin origin, it translates to “star”. And what better name to give to your zoomy, fun, and lovely female pup?5. Bailey:This is another fun and homely name that is often given to pets. Any similarity with a favorite drink is pure coincidence!4. Lucy:If you have a kind, loveable, and gentle female doggo, then you cannot go wrong with a name such as Lucy!3. Daisy:This is one of the most popular names given to animals, especially cows. But surprisingly, it works well for dogs too!2. Bella:A classic feminine name, Bella is ideal for all female puppers, no matter their character.1. Luna:And the number one female dog's name is Luna, which is Latin for “Moon”. It is simple and pretty, which makes it an easy choice for many owners!So, were you surprised by this survey? What is your favorite dog name? Let us know!

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.

42% of Pet Parents Feel Caring for Pets is More Stressful Than Kids!

Pets can be an incredible addition to any family, but they can also come with a bit of stress. In fact, a recent study revealed that nearly half of pet parents shared that caring for their pet was more stressful than caring for their partner or even their children! What is it about our pets that worries us the most? That was the goal of the recent survey conducted by OnePoll and ElleVet Sciences. They polled 2000 pet owners, asking them questions about their relationships, their pets, and the stress that they experience in their role. The answers revealed that the top three sources of stress in most people’s lives include their finances (54%), their job or career (49%), and their ability to care for their pets (42%). The survey went on to discuss reasons for being stressed about our pets, and there was one concern that the majority of respondents shared – as pet parents, we worry about our ability to provide the care our pets will need in their senior years. As our pets get older, their needs often change. We can see this in the way they act and the activities they engage in. A once hyperactive, high-energy dog may start to slow down and sleep more. A dog that easily jumped onto the couch most of their lives now requires stairs or a ramp to get up for cuddle time. Not all changes that come with aging are inherently bad, but 68% of parents say watching their pet age and suffer would be more hurtful to them than losing their job (61%) or breaking up with their partner (61%). “Supporting your pet through all stages of life can minimize their stress, allowing you to create more happy memories together,” shared Amanda Howland, co-founder and CCO of ElleVet Sciences. “As your pet gets older, it’s important to be proactive in identifying the signs of aging, such as difficulty moving, trouble sleeping, and social isolation. It’s all about more time, and more quality time with your pet, and for them, aging and stress are intertwined so taking care of discomfort-related aging and cognitive decline can reduce their stress significantly.” The concern shared by the survey respondents (and other pet parents nationwide) clearly illustrates how important our pets are in our lives. While 73% of those surveyed described their pet as their “protector,” they serve many other vital roles in our lives – our best friends, sounding boards, cheerleaders, motivators, and companions. Your senior pet may require some changes around the home. Throw rugs can be used to provide traction on slippery floors. Safety gates are key for blocking off unsafe areas like staircases that could lead to injury. Caring for our senior pets may be stressful, but it’s also an opportunity to repay our pets for everything they have given us throughout their lives. Even just setting aside time in your schedule each day for a walk around the block followed by a short cuddle on the couch can positively impact their lives, reducing stress and promoting better health. “Just like us, pets’ needs can change as they age, so their daily routines, diet, and exercise may need to be adjusted to improve their quality of life, as well as adding high-quality supplements,” Howland explained. “Small adjustments can ensure your pet’s golden years are less stressful for both themselves and their human companion.”

How Can I Remove Plaque From My Dog's Teeth?

We love our dogs and many of us won’t say no to puppy smooches – but to be fair, not all furballs have the freshest breath out there. If your dog has  bad-smelling breath, the culprit might be plaque buildup and the bacteria overgrowth that comes with it. We all know that bacteria are responsible for all things smelly, and when it comes to oral hygiene, the reason why bacteria are there in the first place is bits of leftover food that slowly but surely turn into tartar on your pet’s teeth. The best way to prevent plaque on a dog's teeth is to brush them, but what about existing buildup? How can you remove plaque from your dog’s teeth at home – or is it something that has to be done professionally? Here’s what you need to know about plaque and tartar and how best to remove them.How Can I Remove Plaque from My Dog's Teeth?Maintaining good dental health in dogs is crucial for their overall well-being. Addressing plaque in your dog's teeth is not just about maintaining a bright smile; it's a key aspect that contributes to their overall health, happiness, and longevity. Regular dental care is an investment in your dog's well-being that pays off in various ways - it’s sure way to prevent dental diseases such as  gingivitis and  periodontitis, eliminate bad breath odor, avoid tooth decay and loss, and maintain your dog’s good appetite. After all, dogs depend on their teeth to eat properly. Just imagine the effect of bad or missing teeth. Unchewed food, indigestion, vomiting – the list is long. So it goes a long way to act on this ahead of time and prevent tartar buildup and remove any existing one. Here are just a few tips to consider when dealing with persistent dog teeth plaque:Prevent Buildup With Regular BrushingDogs need to brush their teeth just like us! They’ll need your help to do it, of course. Remember that it is never too late to start. Start slowly and gently with short brushing sessions, gradually increasing the time as your dog becomes more comfortable. Of course, you should use  a toothbrush that is designed specifically for dogs or a similar fingerbrush. The toothpaste also needs to be for dogs only (never use human toothpaste as it may contain ingredients harmful to dogs).

Expats May Need to Leave their Pets Behind as Travel Costs Skyrocket

Animal travel has always been expensive, but it’s about to become unaffordable for many pet lovers. Pet owners moving abroad may be forced to leave their pets behind after animal travel costs have gone up by as much as 400 percent!IAG Cargo, a sister company to British Airways, Vueling, and Aer Lingus, has recently announced that it was raising travel prices along some routes beginning March 1. This unexpected move shocked pet owners with relocation plans, particularly those moving to and from Britain and the United States. “To reflect the complexities of this bespoke service and the cost of providing the very best care for pets traveling as cargo, we have made some amendments to our prices,” a spokesperson for IAG Cargo said in a statement. This shipping company is mostly used by military personnel to move their pets abroad while deployed. After three years at their duty station in the UK, Sara and her family are moving back to the U.S. The family’s two dogs, Bentley and Ghost, are booked on a British Airways flight on 1 March.Under the current policy, IAG Cargo only accepts a booking for a pet transfer up to six weeks before the flight. The company then confirms the space has been requested. Two weeks before the flight, once the planes have been scheduled on that route, the IAG Cargo confirms the booking, locking in the price.Initially, Sara’s family was quoted $1,450 for a flight from London to Baltimore for both dogs. However, due to the recent price hike, the travel price for the dogs has jumped to $6,500! And that’s without the administration fees and the cost of the agency the family is using to arrange the cargo shipment. “We are paying out of our own pocket for this, and we just bought a house in our new location,” said Sara to BBC. “Our dogs are like our children, we would do anything for them but that doesn’t mean it’s not devastating for our finances.”The family’s shipping agent found another airline that could ship their dogs at a lower price. The catch - they would have to make a seven-hour round trip to collect the dogs from another airport. Sara explained that her dogs are small in size and that she believes people shipping large-size dogs could face shipping costs over $10,000.“I already know a number of people who did not bring their pets [to the UK] because of the costs to bring them one way… People are going to be shocked,” she added.Details about the new pricing and affected routes are still unclear, but some companies that work with IAG Cargo are already seeing the effects. Kimberly Cirone, a director at Pets Abroad UK, a pet relocation company that assists pet owners with travel arrangements and works with airlines, said that the costs of pet transport between Britain and the United States have increased by 400 percent without warning, consideration, or explanation.The unexpected price hike has left many military families in turmoil as they are unable to gather the necessary funds in time to have their pets shipped back home. “It’s a huge amount to organize, and within days or weeks of arriving one of those family members may be sent on to areas of conflict. The dog or cat is hugely important, it is the family’s companion when one partner is away fighting and this will be hugely distressing for them.”Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Why is My Cat Suddenly Acting Aggressive?

Cats are well-known for their independent and aloof nature. It’s part of their mysterious and majestic presence. But what do you do when your once docile companion suddenly becomes angry or aggressive?Understanding why your cat may have shown such an abrupt behavior change is important. Why? This could be a sign of much bigger trouble that demands your attention. There are many explanations for this type of change in demeanor, including physical pain or illness. The best solution to create harmony once again in your home is to get to the bottom of it!In this article, we will look at the most common reasons for a cat to suddenly exhibit aggression and what you should do to help your furry best friend.What Does Aggression Look Like in Cats?If you are a first-time cat owner or have never encountered an aggressive cat, you may wonder what aggression looks like. Our feline friends aren’t always as outwardly friendly and affectionate as their canine counterparts, but aggression refers to behaviors that go a step further. Rather than being aloof or disinterested, an aggressive cat outwardly expresses upset, anger, and frustration toward a trigger.Cat parents who seek help with an aggressive cat often refer to their cat biting or swatting, causing physical harm out of nowhere. But there are often other signs of trouble that are overlooked or unnoticed.Early signs of aggression include:Thrashing or fast twitching tailDirect stareDilated pupilsEars flattened back against the headStiff or crouched postureRaised hacklesHissing, growling, or yowlingWhen these warning signs are ignored, a cat may feel they have no choice but to react further to protect themselves from the perceived threat or trigger. It is at this moment that a cat will swat or bite. Learning to recognize the early warning signs will help you prevent the situation from escalating to the point that someone is hurt.How Do You Tell if a Cat is Playing or Being Aggressive?Some cats, especially young kittens, may play in a way that is similar to or mimics the signs of aggression. This can make it harder to identify if your cat is truly upset or simply playing around. Luckily, there are a few minor differences that can help you differentiate between the two.When a cat is being playful, they usually have their claws retracted. This means they may swat at you during play, but they aren’t scratching or causing harm with that action. The same can be said when they pounce on you – landing on you with their paws, nails retracted. If your cat is biting at your hand during play, they often have a threshold they won’t cross. They may bite hard enough that you feel some discomfort, but they aren’t trying to break the skin.There is a grey area that shouldn’t be overlooked between play and aggression, where a cat either didn’t learn where that line exists or fails to acknowledge it. This is known as play aggression, which we will touch on later.

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Hundreds of Cats and Dogs Saved from an Animal Testing Laboratory

In a groundbreaking action, the Beagle Freedom Project (BFP), a non-profit organization that rescues animals used in testing, has shut down an animal testing facility in Nowata, Oklahoma, and rescued over 200 dogs and cats from certain death.This monumental action closed down one-third of the flea and tick product testing industry in the U.S., ending years of cruel experimentation on an untold number of animals, and saving thousands of cats and dogs from the same dreadful fate.Most of the animals kept in these facilities are bred specifically for testing, meaning they spend their entire lives in terrible conditions. According to the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), animals in laboratories are kept alone in steel cages, with little room to move, and devoid of animal and human companionship.More than 200 cats, dogs, and a family of pigs were kept in horrifying conditions in the 30-acre facility in Nowata, Oklahoma. The poor animals were kept outside in the cold, in nothing but small tents to serve as a shelter. Those kept inside were housed inside tiny cages placed on hard concrete. In the past, the Nowata laboratory has been the subject of many USDA citations and violations. The animals kept there had to endure aggravating pain and discomfort caused by fleas and ticks breeding on their bodies. To make matters worse, the cats and dogs were forced to wear cones so they couldn’t relieve the itching and the pain.“We had to end this,” the president and founder of the Beagle Freedom Project, Shannon Keith, said. “Rather than rescue the dogs and cats one by one, while the facility continued its cruel operations, several months ago, we took a chance and approached the owner of the facility about relinquishing his USDA license and ending operations.”And they were successful! Animal Health Innovations Inc. has ceased operations and surrendered its USDA license. “The importance of this monumental achievement cannot be overstated. Not only have we rescued hundreds of animals from being tested on and certain death, we have also created a pathway for others to do the same,” said Keith to Agusta Free Press.But, that’s not the end. The Beagle Freedom Project plans to transform the former laboratory into a rehabilitation and adoption center called the Freedom Fields - a place where the rescued animals will receive medical attention and the love they deserve.“This has never before been accomplished. We are overjoyed that not only will we give more than 200 dogs and cats their freedom and identity, but that we will also transform an animal testing facility into a place of hope, happiness, rehabilitation, and love,” added Keith.The new space should consist of a doggy park, catio, cat cafe, dog dens, groom room, and lots of open space for dogs and cats to run around and play in. Additionally, there will be a barn for farm animals and a visiting center where the visitors can learn about animal testing before meeting the adoptable animals. Extensive renovations are already underway at Freedom Fields, including replacing small metal cages and makeshift outdoor tents surrounded with electrical fencing with warm and sturdy barns for large farm animals. A landscaped dog park and cozy indoor/outdoor spaces will make rescued cats and dogs feel at home. According to Keith, there are safer and better methods of flea and tick control, and these products don’t have to be tested on animals. Currently, the Beagle Freedom Project is arranging the closure of another large laboratory and is working with companies to provide safer and more ethical methods of flea and tick control for cats and dogs.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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