Cat Doesn't Like Clumping Clay Litter? Check Out These Alternatives.

How To Replace Your Pet's Fave (Worn Out) Blanket with Something New?

(photo credit: Gladskikh Tatiana / shutterstock.com)Let’s be honest here. Every dog or cat owner will have a stash of dog blankets in their arsenal of pet accessories. Why? Because they’re the easiest way to protect our soft furnishings from becoming coated in fluffy fur and doggy drool. And they’re sized perfectly for whipping off to reveal that pristine sofa or chair when company arrives.But we’re not talking about those plush cover-up blankets we all have tucked away in our closets. We’re talking about those comforting remnants that belong to your dog and seem to travel with him around your home. Like a child with a security blanket, our pets can often attach themselves to something soft and portable that brings them immediate comfort throughout the day.The “why” for this behavior can include his strong sense of smell and how a familiar scent provides him with comfort and reassurance when new or unsettling circumstances arise. Or, he could use it as a teething device when younger and simply has not outgrown the habit. It could also be down to your dog’s need to nest or burrow and a blanket allows him to flip it around and bury himself down under where he feels safe and cozy. And lastly, his favorite blanket can provide him with warmth and a sense of well-being that allows him to relax and feel at ease within his surroundings – especially when not in his home base.So, what do you do when said security blanket desperately needs to be washed? You know it will remove the scent he loves and (temporarily) his access to this comfort source. You plan for it.

Louis the Cat Will Inspire You to Explore with Your Furry Friend!

In a world where our cats often spend their lives within the confines of the four walls of our homes, a remarkable cat named Louis is showing adventurous cat parents that there is a different way. This adventurous Persian, with his owners Dan Taylor and Jess Peters, made headlines last year for his hiking achievements as the first cat to climb all 3 British peaks. Now, he’s back to inspire others again after completing a new hiking challenge across the Peak and Lake Districts. While not every cat may be a natural-born hiker, his owners’ advice is a great starting point for anyone considering adventuring with their best friend. “Not all cats are adventurous, but Louis is one of them,” cat dad Dan Taylor explained. “If anyone feels like they have an adventurous cat living with them, they can start them off with small adventures to build them up and see how they do. Some cats are interested in doing things like this.” There are several things to consider before hitting the trail. First, ensure your cat is comfortable with a harness and a leash. Start by letting them wear it for short periods inside the house. Next, gradually introduce them to the outdoors in a quiet, safe space like your backyard. Once they’re comfortable, you can move to short walks in a low-traffic area. Always remember to prioritize your cat’s safety and comfort. Look for signs of stress and never force them into a situation they’re not ready for. Common signs of stress in cats include: Changes in appetiteDigestive problems (diarrhea, constipation, frequent vomiting)Accidents outside the litter boxOvergrooming (may result in skin irritation or bald spots) Excessive vocalization Increased aggression or irritability (hissing, scratching, biting)TremblingWithdrawal or attempting to hide Louis’ adventures have earned him quite a dedicated following on his Instagram account, @lordlouis_persian. The couple has also used his platform for good, launching a fundraiser to support Cats Protection and a film project for Jess’s novel. The fundraiser highlights his efforts to explore the Catbells Ridge Walk and The Great Ridge Walk to raise attention and funds for the care and rehoming efforts of the organization, changing the lives of rescue cats in need. While 50% of funds raised will go to Cats Protection, Louis’s efforts are also going to help his cat mom, Jess Peters, achieve a dream of her own. The other 50% of the funds will help bring her fantasy novel, Alchemy Academy, to the big screen with StormLightUK. This brave kitty and his many adventures serve as a powerful testament to the bond between a pet and their person. They show us that with patience, preparation, and a little bravery, we can share incredible experiences with our best furry friends. It’s a great way to enrich their lives and our own in the process. Louis is not just a hiking cat; he’s an inspiration to use all to step outside, explore, and create unforgettable memories with the pets we love so much! Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

3 Strange Things Your Dog Might Do When They’re Sick

Dogs can’t tell us when they’re feeling unwell, but they often express discomfort in ways that seem odd. As a pet parent, recognizing these subtle signals early can make all the difference. Here are three unusual behaviors that might mean your dog isn’t feeling their best.

How to Safely Welcome a Skittish Rescue Cat into Your Home

3 Heartwarming Stories of Rescue Dogs Finding Their Forever Homes

Every year, countless dogs find themselves in shelters, each with a unique story and a longing for a loving home.Luckily, many of these pets find their forever home and today we're going to take a look at three of these heartwarming stories.

5 Common Fall Decor Pieces That Aren’t Pet Safe

Fall is a cozy and festive time of year, filled with warm colors, scented candles, and seasonal decorations. However, many pet owners don’t realize that these beautiful décor pieces can actually be dangerous for their furry friends. Here are 5 common ones to look out for.

Easy Tips to Help Keep Your Cat’s Teeth Healthy

Dental health is one of the most overlooked aspects of cat care, yet it’s vital to your pet’s overall well-being. Cats are masters at hiding discomfort, so dental disease can progress significantly before you even notice there’s a problem. The good news? With just a few easy habits, you can help keep your cat’s teeth clean and their mouth healthy.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you. 

The Secret to Finally Winning the Battle Against Pet Hair

Meet the cordless BISSELL PowerClean® FurFinder™—your new best friend this shedding season.Every pet parent knows the struggle. You adore your furry companion… but their fur? Not so much. It clings to furniture, gets trampled into your rugs and carpets, and gets stuck to your clothes. Vacuuming and lint-rolling feel endless. And somehow, there’s still so much hair left behind.But not anymore. The BISSELL PowerClean® FurFinder is a cordless stick vacuum built specifically for life with pets. As America’s #1 brand purchased by pet owners, BISSELL understands what it takes to keep homes fresh, fur-free, and frustration-free.And with Prime Deal Days running October 7–8, there’s never been a better time to take the leap, especially with savings up to $150 off.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Black Cats, Halloween, and a Bum Wrap

Why your jet-black feline deserves a little respect this month.

Watch Out for These Common Summer Dangers for Dogs

The sun is shining and temperatures are rising, filling many of us with excitement for the arrival of summer. There’s nothing quite like seeing the pure delight on their faces as we explore our local parks and hiking trails together, but the season also brings a unique set of potential dangers for our pups.While we’re reaching for the sunscreen and planning our next adventure, we must remember that our pups face dangers we may not always think about. Keeping our pups safe starts with being informed about the risks and the steps we can take to prevent trouble.Let’s look at some of the most common summer dangers for dogs, from the obvious heat-related issues to some of the sneakier threats lurking in our backyards and beyond…HeatstrokeWe all know the joys of basking in the summer sun, but the rising temperatures can also pose a significant threat to our pups, with heatstroke being the biggest concern. Unlike humans, who sweat effectively to cool down, dogs primarily rely on panting. This process becomes far less efficient in high humidity and extreme heat, meaning their body temperature can quickly skyrocket.One of the most common culprits we sadly see far too often is the act of leaving a dog in a parked car – even for a short period, with the windows slightly open, the interior can heat up to lethal levels in minutes. Overexertion during walks or playtime in the hottest part of the day, and a lack of access to shade and fresh water when outdoors, also significantly increase this risk.Recognizing the signs of heatstroke is crucial. This includes:Excessive panting and droolingBright red or pale gumsIncreased heart rateLethargy and weaknessA stumbling gaitVomitingActing disorientedSeizures or collapse (in severe cases)If you suspect your dog is suffering from heatstroke, you must act quickly. Move them to a cool, shaded environment. Apply cool (not ice-cold) water to their body, especially the groin, belly, and neck areas. Offer small amounts of water if they are conscious. Most importantly, contact your veterinarian ASAP - heatstroke is a medical emergency.Some dogs are more susceptible to heatstroke, including brachycephalic breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs, senior dogs, and those with pre-existing health conditions. Extra vigilance is needed for them.Never, under any circumstances, leave your dog unattended in a parked vehicle during warm weather. Plan your walks and exercise sessions for the cooler early morning or late evening hours. When your dog is outdoors, ensure they have access to plenty of shade and a constant supply of fresh, cool water. Consider using cooling vests or mats as an added layer of protection on the hottest days.Sunburn and Paw Pad BurnsJust like us, dogs with light-colored fur or thin coats can suffer from sunburn. This is especially true on sensitive areas like their nose, ears, and belly. Using a pet-safe sunscreen on these vulnerable spots can help prevent discomfort and long-term skin damage.Another often-overlooked hazard is the scorching heat of surfaces like sand, asphalt, and sidewalks. These can become incredibly hot under the summer sun and easily burn your dog’s paw pads, leading to pain and potential infection.A simple way to check if the ground is too hot for your pup is the “seven-second rule.” Place the back of your hand on the surface and hold it there for seven seconds. If it’s too hot for you to comfortably hold it there, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.During the hottest part of the day, try walking your dog on grass or in shaded areas. If that’s not always possible, consider using protective dog boots to shield their paws from the heat.Dehydration Water is vital in helping your dog regulate their body temperature and stay healthy. Just like us, your dog’s water needs increase in warmer weather and with increased activity. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, a general guideline is that dogs should drink approximately one ounce of water per pound of body weight per day. There are also online calculators available to help you understand your dog’s needs – but keep in mind that this can vary depending on their size, activity level, and the ambient temperature. To help your dog stay hydrated, always ensure they have access to fresh, clean water at home. When you’re out and about, especially on walks or playtime, carry a portable water bowl and offer them water regularly. Contaminated Water Not all water sources are safe for our dogs. Summer can bring about hazards in bodies of water like lakes, ponds, and puddles that appear at the surface to be an inviting way to cool off. Blue-green algae, for example, can bloom in stagnant ponds and lakes during warm weather. Ingestion of this toxic algae can lead to serious health issues, ranging from vomiting and diarrhea to liver damage and neurological problems. Similarly, parasites like Giardia and Cryptosporidium can contaminate natural water sources, causing gastrointestinal problems for dogs who drink the affected water. It’s best to err on the side of caution and prevent your dog from drinking from random puddles or bodies of water. Always bring plenty of your own fresh water for your dog on outings. If they are being given regular water breaks, they will be less likely to try to sneak a drink along the way. Pool and Ocean Safety Swimming is a go-to favorite activity for many when the temperatures climb, but water safety is crucial. While some dogs are natural swimmers, many are not, and even strong swimmers can tire out quickly. Never leave your dog unsupervised near a pool, lake, or the ocean, regardless of how strong their swimming skills may be. If you have a pool or pond on your property, teach your dog how to enter and, more importantly, exit safely. Even if you have the area fenced off, there is always the risk that the barrier fails. A dog life vest can provide an invaluable layer of safety for dogs who are not strong swimmers or if you plan on boating. When at the beach, be mindful of saltwater ingestion. Too much saltwater can lead to dehydration, vomiting, and diarrhea. Always offer your dog plenty of fresh water while hanging out at the beach to discourage them from drinking the salt water during their play.

5 Tips for Taking Better Care of Your Dog’s Paws

Your dog’s paws help them run, play, and explore the world, but they can also get hurt or irritated if not cared for. From hot pavement in summer to cold ice in winter, paws face many challenges. With a little attention, you can keep them healthy and comfortable. Here are five easy tips to help.Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

How to Find the Best Veterinarian for Your Pet

We shower our pets with love, provide nutritious food, and offer endless cuddles. Still, there’s one crucial piece of the pet parent puzzle that often goes overlooked until we desperately need it: a genuinely great veterinarian.Your vet is not just your pet’s doctor, there to fix things if they go wrong. They are part of their care team, working with you to ensure that your pet enjoys a life of health and happiness. They will guide you through every stage of your pet’s life, from playful puppies and energetic kittens to the graceful senior years.Choosing the right vet is one of the most impactful decisions you’ll make for your pet’s long-term well-being. It’s about building a relationship based on trust, expertise, and a shared commitment to your pet. This isn’t a decision to take lightly, and it’s certainly not one size fits all! That’s why we’ve put together this guide, walking you through everything you should consider when searching for the best veterinarian for your pet. Understanding Your Pet’s NeedsFinding the right veterinarian starts with understanding your pet’s needs and requirements. Not all veterinary practices are created equal, and what’s perfect for one animal might not be suitable for another. Here are some factors to help you narrow down your options:Age and Health ConsiderationsYour pet’s life stage and current health status will play a significant role in determining the ideal vet partner.Puppies and kittens require a vet who can guide you through early socialization, a comprehensive vaccination schedule, proper deworming practices, and discussions about spaying and neutering. As pets age, their needs evolve. Routine annual check-ups, preventive care, and guidance on weight management and nutrition are key for healthy adults. As your dog reaches their golden years, a vet experienced in geriatric care can help manage common senior issues like arthritis, monitor organ function, and provide compassionate palliative care when necessary.If your pet lives with a chronic condition, such as diabetes, severe allergies, or kidney disease, you’ll need a veterinarian who is not only knowledgeable in managing these long-term illnesses but also committed to ongoing management, communication, and personalized care plans.General Practitioners vs SpecialistsMost often, your pet will see a general practitioner. This is like their family doctor, the everyday hero of veterinary medicine, providing routine check-ups, vaccinations, minor illness treatment, and general preventative care. They are the first line of defense in your pet’s health.However, just like in human medicine, there are also veterinary specialists. These highly trained professionals focus on specific areas of vet medicine, such as internal medicine, dermatology, oncology, cardiology, orthopedics, or surgery. If your pet develops a complex or chronic condition that requires advanced diagnostics or specialized treatment, you may be referred to one of these experts. However, your general practice vet will still be part of the team throughout this process.The Unique Needs of Exotic PetsIf your beloved pet is anything other than a dog or cat, such as a hamster, hedgehog, parrot, lizard, snake, ferret, rabbit, guinea pig, or chinchilla, your search for a veterinarian narrows considerably. It’s crucial that you understand that not all veterinarians are trained or equipped to care for exotic species properly. Their anatomy, physiology, dietary requirements, and environmental needs are vastly different, and treating them effectively requires specialized knowledge and often unique equipment.When searching for a vet for an exotic pet, you must prioritize finding someone with specific experience and expertise with your particular species. Look for veterinarians who are members of or certified by exotic animal veterinary organizations, as this often indicates a dedicated focus and ongoing education in this specialized field.Practical Considerations When Choosing a VetWhen searching for the ideal vet, practical considerations like location and accessibility are surprisingly important and often overlooked. It’s easy to focus solely on medical expertise, but if you can’t get your pet to the appointment, it can significantly impact their ongoing care.Distance and ConvenienceFirst and foremost, consider the distance between your home and the veterinary clinic. For routine check-ups and vaccinations, a short drive is simply more convenient and less stressful for both you and your pet, especially if you have a pet who is anxious about car rides. However, proximity becomes crucial in an emergency. When every minute counts, a lengthy drive through traffic can make a critical difference.Don’t just consider the distance on paper. Think about your typical commute times, especially during peak hours. A clinic that seems close on a map might be surprisingly far in rush-hour traffic.Clinic HoursTake a look at the clinic’s operating hours. Do they align with your schedule? If you work traditional hours, finding a vet that offers evening or weekend appointments can be incredibly helpful and prevent you from having to take time off work for every visit. Flexibility in scheduling can make consistent vet care much easier to manage.Emergency ServicesBeyond routine visits, it’s vital to understand a clinic’s approach to emergency services. Not every veterinary office offers after-hours emergency care themselves. They may refer clients to a dedicated emergency veterinary hospital nearby, which means considering the distance to that location as well. Many general practices partner with 24/7 emergency centers, which is perfectly acceptable as long as the emergency clinic’s location is accessible for you.The key is knowing their protocol and the contact information for their recommended emergency facility before you’re in a stressful situation. Having a clear emergency plan in place is essential, as you often aren’t thinking straight during an active emergency.

Let's Swap Out the Dread Dog Cone With Something Comfortable!

(photo credit: loflo69 / shutterstock.com)Whether your pet is returning from the vet’s office after a minor snip-snip or a major surgery, odds are that you’ve been told not to let them lick, scratch, or fret over the wound. Now, although dog saliva does contain histatins that act as a mild antibacterial and many think it helps expedite wound healing, studies have shown that’s not necessarily the case. In fact, dogs lick their wounds as a form of self-soothing rather than because of any deep-seated intuition that tells them it will help them heal more quickly.Now, despite dog saliva’s antibacterial properties, the amount is insufficient to keep the wound clean and more often than not, will add different bacterium that can result in infection. Further, constant licking can also prevent the injury from scabbing over and healing properly.And that’s why your veterinarian will want your dog “coned”. It prevents access to a wound or incision site and slows the healing process. But, while getting the cone on your pet is relatively easy, believe me when I say that living with a coned animal is anything but. Not only are they bulky and awkward but these plastic shields block vision, restrict the animal from laying down naturally, moving throughout their home, as well as interfering with their ability to groom themselves.But who’s to say that preventing your little guy from licking or scratching a wound or incision had to be done with a hard plastic cone that constantly bumped into furniture and blocked vision? What if it could be a lot more comfortable and less restrictive?

When Stressed, People Prefer Pets Over Family and Friends

When you feel stressed, do you turn to your pets and seek comfort from them? Well, there’s nothing strange or odd about that. Mars and Calm teamed up to conduct a survey of 30,000 pet parents, and they found that more than half of them would rather spend time with their pets when they want to get away from their troubles. Keep reading to learn more about their findings.

What Are the Long-Term Effects of Respiratory Infections in Cats?

Do you start worrying the moment you hear your cat sneeze? Perhaps you brush it off, thinking it’s just a cold instead? In many cases, that initial worry period passes quickly as your cat bounces back and starts to act normally again, leaving your concerns behind. However, for loving cat parents, it’s important to understand that a common cold in cats, formally known as a Feline Upper Respiratory Infection (FURI), can pose some significant challenges and health complications. FURIs are very common among cats. While the initial phase of the illness often resolves in a week or two, the underlying viruses don’t always pack up and leave. They can linger, triggering persistent or recurring symptoms that can significantly impact your cat’s health and well-being in the long term. This post will look at FURIs beyond the immediate sneeze, highlighting some of the long-term implications of these infections. I’ll explain what FURIs are, the subtle signs of trouble you need to look out for, and steps you can take to make your cat’s health the top priority! What is Feline Upper Respiratory Infection? The term “Feline Upper Respiratory Infection” (FURI) is used as an umbrella term to describe any infectious illness that affects a cat’s nose, throat, and sinuses. Essentially, it’s the cat version of a bad cold or flu, though it often involves more severe symptoms. When a cat contracts a FURI, the delicate lining of these passages becomes inflamed, which is what causes the warning signs we often see. The causes of FURIs are generally a mix of viruses and bacteria. The two most common culprits are Feline Herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1), also known as Feline Rhinotracheitis Virus, and Feline Calicivirus (FCV). Bacteria like Bordetella bronchiseptica (a cause of kennel cough) and Chlamydophila felis can also contribute to the illness, either as the primary infection or, more commonly, as a secondary infection that takes advantage of the cat’s weakened immune system, contributing to their symptoms. FURIs are highly contagious illnesses that spread easily through various means. It can be passed cat to cat through direct contact, such as grooming or nuzzling. Viruses and bacteria are also shed in airborne droplets from sneezing or coughing, and they can be transferred by sharing food or water bowls, litter boxes, or even toys. This is why FURIs are such a significant challenge in multi-cat homes, shelters, and boarding facilities. The common symptoms of upper respiratory infections in cats usually appear suddenly. This can include: SneezingClear or cloudy nasal discharge Runny, watery eyes Red, irritated, or inflamed eyesMild to severe lethargy Loss of appetite (due to congestion, making it difficult to smell food)Oral ulcers (especially with FCV)Many cats will recover from these symptoms in approximately 7 to 10 days with appropriate supportive care. However, overcoming these symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean the infection is over, especially when FHV-1 is involved. When a FURI Becomes a Long-Term Problem The majority of cat parents will breathe a sigh of relief when the sneezing stops and their cat’s eyes clear up, assuming they are now in the clear. However, for many cats, the initial infection is just he beginning of a long-term relationship with the virus. This transition from a short-term infection to a chronic condition can significantly impact your cat’s quality of life. After the initial infection, FHV-1 doesn’t completely leave your cat’s body. Instead, it retreats and hides within the nerve cells, where it remains dormant or “latent.” The cat becomes a lifelong carrier of the virus. The latent state is often managed well by your cat’s immune system, but it is not a cure. However, if your cat experiences stress, it can open the door for trouble. Stressors such as moving to a new home, introducing a new pet, boarding, illness, or even significant changes in their household routine can weaken the immune system. When this happens, the latent FHV-1 can flare up, leading to a recurrence of the symptoms, sometimes even more severely than the initial infection. Damage from the initial infection can also lead to persistent inflammation that continues long after the initial symptoms disappear. This can lead to chronic conditions that require ongoing care and management, such as: Chronic Rhinitis: This is a persistent inflammation of the nasal lining. Symptoms include continuous sneezing, heavy sinus congestion, and continuous nasal discharge that can range from clear to thick and discolored. Ongoing medical management is required to keep your cat comfortable and breathing easily. Recurring Ocular Issues: FHV-1 often leads to recurring eye problems. This includes chronic conjunctivitis (inflammation and redness of the eyes) and, more seriously, corneal ulcers. These ulcers are painful sores on the surface of the eye that can impact your cat’s vision and, if left untreated, cause severe scarring or even loss of the eye. Any squinting, excessive tearing, or cloudy appearance of the eye should be considered a medical emergency. Chronic Gingivitis/Stomatitis: Feline Calicivirus (FCV) is strongly associated with painful and chronic mouth inflammation. This may lead to severe gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) or stomatitis (widespread inflammation of the oral tissues). These conditions are incredibly painful and can significantly reduce your cat’s desire to eat, potentially causing severe weight loss and a dramatically reduced quality of life. Understanding the potential for long-term complications is key to being proactive in your cat’s care. After it appears your cat’s FURI has cleared up, watch for any sign of even mild, recurring symptoms. If you suspect trouble, a visit to the vet is the best approach to get to the bottom of the situation and, if any of these conditions are present, create a long-term management plan.

Things to Consider Before Getting a Ferret

Ferrets can make great pets, with their high energy level and fun-loving personalities, but they aren’t right for everyone. If you’ve been thinking about bringing a ferret into your family, there are several things to consider before you do. As with any type of pet, you want to be sure you know what to expect, and you want to be certain you’ll be able to provide your ferret with the care they need.

Study Finds Most Pet Owners Underestimate the Lifetime Care Costs

We love our pets and treat them as members of the family, but owning a four-legged companion can get costly. Furthermore, the lifetime cost of owning a pet has increased, according to a new study conducted by Synchrony, a financial company.Synchrony’s Lifetime of Pet Care study found that nearly eight in 10 U.S. pet owners underestimate the lifetime cost of caring for their pet. The report also shows that lifetime care costs have increased significantly since 2022, by 11,65% for dogs and 19,4% for cats. This increase reflects a growing investment in veterinary care, technology, and wellness products. The study, which surveyed 4,861 U.S. pet parents, found that caring for a dog over a 15-year period can cost between $22,125 and $60,602. Meanwhile, caring for a cat over a 15-year period is estimated to cost from $20,073 to $47,106. For the first time, the study also included the lifetime care costs for small animals, such as guinea pigs, hamsters, and rabbits. Caring for pocket pets over a six-year lifespan can cost between $7,600 and $14,938.Most pet owners, however, estimated much lower spending. According to Synchrony’s report, dog owners expect to spend only $8,000 on their pups’ lifetime care, while cat owners estimate spending just $6,000 on lifetime care costs. “Pets enrich our lives in countless ways, and it’s natural for pet owners to want to provide them with the best possible care,” said Jonathan Wainberg, senior vice president and general manager of Synchrony’s pet division. “Our research shows that while 60% of dog owners, 61% of cat owners, and 59% of ‘pocket-pet’ owners see them as family, many are unaware of the actual financial commitment.”The report also uncovered increased financial worry among pet parents, with 48% saying they feel anxious about unexpected expenses. Although 74% of owners report they’ve had unexpected pet care costs over $250, only 31% admit they could comfortably cover a large veterinary bill. A growing number of pet owners, 58% revealed they used a credit card to pay for their pet’s veterinary expenses. Meanwhile, only 20% of dog and cat owners reported having emergency savings or insurance to cover unexpected veterinary bills. Cats are becoming increasingly popular as pets, with 37% of U.S. households reporting owning a feline. The increase in cat ownership is responsible for the increase in tech spending, which has doubled since 2022.More and more cat owners are opting for products like automated cat feeders and litter boxes. According to the report, cat owners are now spending between $350 and $480 on high-tech products for their cats.Dog owners, on the other hand, are spending more on wellness plans and health insurance, contributing to the overall rise in care costs. An average dog owner spends $701 a year on wellness plans for their pooch and $313 a year on dog insurance. “The best asset you can give your pet is their health,” said Dr. Courtney Campbell, board-certified veterinary surgeon. “Preventative care is the bedrock of a vibrant life. If we can prevent costly emergencies before they start, we can help ensure a lifetime of joy and comfort for our multi-species family members.” Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Can a Water Additive Keep My Dog's Teeth Clean?

Canine dental disease, ranging from gingivitis to advanced periodontal disease, is sadly common, affecting a large number of adult dogs. It’s a silent threat, often progressing beneath the gum line with no obvious signs until it becomes painful and seriously impacts overall health. In the most severe cases, it can lead to issues in the heart, kidneys, and liver.While veterinarians agree that daily tooth brushing is the gold standard for preventing plaque and tartar buildup, for some dogs, that feels more like a wrestling match than a bonding experience. If the idea of daily brushing feels overwhelming or impossible for your dog, you may be searching for other options, including the use of dental water additives.This post will explore how these dental products work, their potential benefits and limitations, and what you should look for when considering one for your dog. By the end, you’ll better understand if a water additive can truly help your dog and if it fits into your greater dental care plan.Why Dental Health is ImportantWhile that unpleasant “dog breath” may be your first clue that something’s wrong, halitosis (bad breath) is often just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to dental problems in our dogs. The real concern is usually progressing beneath the surface.It all begins with plaque, a sticky, colorless film that forms on your dog’s teeth and is composed of bacteria, food particles, and saliva. If it isn’t removed, this plaque hardens into tartar. This rough, porous surface provides the ideal environment for bacteria to build up both above and, more concerningly, below the gum line.This buildup leads to gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums that manifests as redness, swelling, and bleeding. At this early stage, gingivitis is reversible with proper dental care. However, if it’s left untreated, it can progress to periodontal disease, a far more serious condition. Periodontal disease involves the infection and inflammation of the structures that support your dog’s teeth, including the gums, ligaments, and bone. As the infection gets worse, it can lead to irreversible bone loss, gum recession, and ultimately, painful tooth loss. The impact of poor dental health can also progress beyond just the mouth. The bacteria thriving in an infected mouth don’t stay put; they can enter the bloodstream through inflamed gums and travel throughout the body. This can contribute to serious health issues in vital organs like the heart, kidneys, and liver.Plus, we must remember that dental disease is incredibly painful for our dogs and life-changing in terms of their overall quality of life. While they often hide their discomfort, dental pain can impact their ability to eat, chew toys, play, and generally enjoy their lives.This is why vets often emphasize that a healthy mouth is essential for a healthy body.The Gold Standard: Why Brushing Your Dog’s Teeth is Still RecommendedWhen it comes to your dog’s dental care, daily tooth brushing stands as the undisputed gold standard. It physically disrupts and removes the sticky plaque and food debris from the tooth surfaces and, most importantly, along the gum line, before the plaque has a chance to harden into tartar. The active scrubbing of brushing is what makes it the most effective solution. If you’re interested in brushing your dog’s teeth, there are a few things you can do to make the process smoother. Always introduce the toothbrush and toothpaste gradually, focusing on short, positive experiences at first. Make sure you use a toothpaste specifically made for pets, as human toothpaste contains ingredients like xylitol and fluoride that are toxic to dogs. Focus your brushing efforts on the outside surfaces of the teeth, paying close attention to where the tooth meets the gum line, as this is where plaque tends to build up quickest. Consistency and making tooth brushing a positive, reward-based routine are key to success. However, we must also face the reality that this isn’t going to work for every dog. Many dogs aren’t comfortable with having their mouths handled this way, leading to resistance, stress, or even fear. Regular, consistent brushing can also be a challenge for pet parents with time constraints in their busy schedules or those who lack the confidence and knowledge necessary to brush effectively. If daily brushing isn’t feasible for your dog, it doesn’t mean you have to compromise on their dental health. Instead, create a plan with other practical tools to prioritize their dental health and prevent the progression of painful oral diseases. Enter Water AdditivesGiven the challenges many pet parents face with daily brushing, an alternative that has been gaining popularity is the use of dental care water additives. Simply put, these are liquid solutions designed to be added directly to your dog’s drinking water, passively improving their oral hygiene with each drink. How They WorkThe active ingredients in the additive target oral bacteria, preventing plaque formation and helping to break down existing plaque before it hardens into tartar. This includes: Antimicrobial agents like chlorhexidine, zinc salts, or cetylpyridinium. These compounds help stop the growth of bacteria in the mouth, reducing the overall amount of bacteria contributing to plaque formation and bad breath. Enzymes such as glucose oxidase and lactoperoxidase function by breaking down components of plaque or creating an unfavorable environment for bacteria to live and grow. Plaque-loosening agents like citric acid or specific plant extracts are thought to help prevent plaque from adhering to the tooth's surface and soften existing plaque, making it easier to remove through activities like chewing. Some products are made to be tasteless, promising your dog won’t even notice the product has been added to the water. Others add a mild flavoring to make it more tempting for dogs, encouraging them to drink more, adding another benefit to their use.