Does Your Cat Need a Hygiene Trim? Quite Possibly!

Can My Dog Get Jealous?

You’re giving attention to a new puppy, petting the neighbor’s dog, or maybe even cuddling a baby - and suddenly, your own dog pushes in, whines, or wedges themselves between you and the “intruder.” It definitely feels like jealousy.But is it? Can dogs actually get jealous? The short answer: Yes - sort of.While dogs don’t experience jealousy in quite the same way humans do, they can show possessive, competitive, or attention-seeking behaviors that look a lot like it. Let’s break it down.What Jealousy Looks Like in DogsJealousy in dogs often shows up in subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) ways. You might notice your dog:Pushing between you and another person or petWhining or barking when you give someone else attentionPawing at you or demanding cuddles Guarding toys, food, or even peopleActing out with sudden behaviors like peeing indoors or ignoring commandsThese aren’t just “bad manners” - they’re signals that your dog is feeling insecure, left out, or uncertain about their place in the social circle.Why Dogs Act JealousAt the heart of it, jealousy-like behavior in dogs is often rooted in:Attention shifts - especially if they were once your one-and-onlyChanges in routine - a new baby, pet, partner, or roommateResource guarding - not just food, but people tooA need for reassurance - dogs are incredibly social animals who crave connectionThey’re not being dramatic - they’re responding to what feels like a threat to their bond with you.What the Science SaysResearch backs up what dog owners have long suspected. A 2014 study published in PLOS ONE found that dogs exhibited jealous behaviors - like pushing or interrupting - when their owners showed affection to what appeared to be another dog (in reality, a stuffed dog). The behaviors mirrored how young children react to divided attention.While dogs may not experience jealousy in the full, emotional complexity humans do, it’s clear they can feel possessive, left out, or protective of their relationships.How to Help a “Jealous” DogThe good news is, jealous behavior can be managed - and even prevented - with the right approach. Here’s how:1. Acknowledge Their Feelings (Without Reinforcing Them)It’s okay to comfort your dog, but try not to reward pushy behavior with attention every time. Instead, calmly redirect and reward calm, patient behavior.2. Give One-on-One TimeMake sure your dog still gets regular undivided attention - walks, play, snuggles - especially if there’s a new pet or baby in the house.

FDA Issues Emergency Use Authorization to Treat Screwworm in Dogs

On October 24, 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released a statement regarding the use of Credelio for screwworm in dogs. By issuing an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for this medication, they are making a treatment available in the United States for dogs who are diagnosed with New World screwworm (NWS).  

Cats and Bum Slapping. It's a Thing!

A surprising number of felines love the rough and tumble action of lower back scratching and swatting their behinds around.

How to Cat-Proof Your Home

Cats are known for knocking things off shelves and getting themselves trapped in nooks and crannies, so if you have kitties, you need to cat-proof your home. That’s right, in addition to kitten-proofing your rooms, you need to consider how your adult cats could potentially hurt themselves, too.  

Is Your Dog Bored? 3 DIY Brain Games to Keep Them Happy

Just like us, dogs need mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. When boredom strikes, it can lead to unwanted behaviors like chewing furniture, excessive barking, or digging up the yard. The good news? You don’t need to buy expensive toys to keep your pup entertained. With a little creativity, you can turn your home into a canine enrichment center.Here are three simple DIY brain games to keep your dog’s mind sharp and their tail wagging.

How Do Calming Pillows, Beds, and Blankets Keep Dogs Stress Free?

What is Giardia in Cats?

It’s a moment of concern that no cat parent wants – when you scoop the litter box, and something just looks… off. Perhaps your usually energetic cat seems a little less playful, or their stool isn’t its normal consistency. We strive to give our cats the best possible quality of life, and any change of behavior that deviates from their usual happy, healthy selves sends us searching for answers. After all, we want to fix it! Right? While we often think of obvious threats and concerns, like fleas and ticks, some of the most common challenges to our cats' well-being are microscopic pests and parasites. One such threat that is often overlooked or undiscussed is Giardia, an intestinal parasite that can significantly impact your cat’s digestive health and overall comfort. Understanding Giardia – how it spreads, the signs to watch for, and most importantly, how to prevent and address it – is vital for every cat owner. In this post, we’ll talk about the basics of Giardia and the practical steps you can take to prioritize your cat’s health. What Exactly is Giardia? Giardia is a protozoan – a single-celled, microscopic parasite, different from the bacteria and viruses we usually associate with health problems. Think of protozoa as tiny, primitive organisms that can move around and often live within a host animal. Another protozoan parasite that impacts the intestine, you may have heard of, is Coccidia. This is important to note, as while they all fall under the broad umbrella of parasites, their life cycles and the challenges they pose for the host animal can differ. For Giardia to survive and spread, it relies on a two-stage life cycle. The first stage is the cyst. These are the hardy, protective capsules that the Giardia organism forms outside the host’s body. It allows the organism to survive for weeks or months in cool, moist environments like contaminated water sources, soil, and food. The cycle continues when a cat ingests these cysts, perhaps from grooming them off their fur after walking through contaminated soil or drinking from a contaminated puddle. Inside the cat’s small intestine, the cysts grow into active, feeding organisms known as trophozoites. These trophozoites attach to the intestinal lining, interfering with nutrient absorption and causing the symptoms associated with Giardiasis. As they multiply, some trophozoites will transform back into cysts, being shed in the cat’s feces to complete the cycle and allow the parasite to infect other animals (or re-infect the same cat). What Cats Are Most Susceptible to Giardia? Any cat can pick up Giardia, but several factors could increase a cat’s risk. Cats with outdoor access are at a significantly higher risk due to their access to potentially contaminated soil, puddles, and the feces of other infected animals. Additionally, multi-cat households have a higher risk as they share litter boxes, food bowls, and even groom one another, making transmission between the cats more likely. Kittens and very young cats are particularly vulnerable to the effects of Giardia, as their immune systems are still developing and may not be strong enough to fight off the infection as effectively. Similarly, cats with compromised immune systems due to stress, illness, or other underlying health conditions are also more susceptible to developing an infection if exposed to Giardia. Common Signs of Giardia in Cats Detecting Giardia in your cat can be challenging. The symptoms cover a broad spectrum, ranging from virtually unnoticeable to severely debilitating. Some cats can even be asymptomatic carriers, meaning they carry the parasite and shed cysts into the environment without showing any outward signs of the illness. Symptoms can also be intermittent, appearing for a few days, disappearing, and then recurring weeks later, making it difficult for even the most observant cat parent to identify if they have recovered. Here are the most common signs to watch out for: Gastrointestinal Troubles When Giardia does manifest noticeable symptoms, it primarily affects the gastrointestinal system. The most common and tell-tale sign is diarrhea. This isn’t just any loose stool; it’s often characterized as soft, watery, or even greasy in appearance. It also frequently has a foul odor. You may notice mucus in the stool, or in more severe cases, traces of blood. This is why it’s important to be observant when cleaning your cat’s litter box to pick up on any signs of trouble their waste may reveal. While less common than diarrhea, vomiting can occur, especially if the infection is severe or persistent. In young kittens or chronic cases, the loss of nutrient absorption caused by Giardia can lead to weight loss and a general failure to thrive, hindering their growth and development. A cat struggling to absorb nutrients from their diet may also display poor coat health, with their coat appearing dull, dry, or unkempt despite keeping up with their regular grooming. Subtle signs of abdominal pain or discomfort may be present. This includes a hunched posture, sensitivity when touched around the belly, or a reluctance to enjoy their usual playful daytime activities. Behavioral Changes Beyond the gastrointestinal struggles, Giardia can also lead to more general signs of illness, with your cat’s behavior revealing that they aren’t feeling quite like themselves. A noticeable decrease in their activity level (lethargy) is common, as they no longer have the usual energy to keep up with their day. You may also notice a loss of appetite or a reduced interest in food or treats, contributing to further weight loss. In cases of severe diarrhea and vomiting, dehydration can become a serious concern, especially because cats are, naturally, more prone to hydration-related problems. Visible signs of dehydration include sunken eyes or skin that, when gently pinched, is slow to return to its normal position. When to Be Concerned Any persistent change in your cat’s bathroom habits, particularly chronic or recurring diarrhea, should be considered a red flag. While soft stool doesn’t necessarily mean Giardia, these consistent changes are often a sign of a more significant medical issue. Early diagnosis and intervention are key to minimizing your cat’s discomfort, furthering the spread of the parasite, and helping your cat feel like their happy, healthy self again.

Surfing Pups Ride Waves at World Dog Surfing Championships 2025

It was a day of high-fives, wagging tails, and impressive displays of balance on the coast of California as water-loving dogs gathered for the World Dog Surfing Championships. The annual event was held at Lina Mar Beach in Pacifica on August 2nd. It was nearly cancelled this year due to increased event permit costs, but was saved by sponsors and donations, allowing thousands of spectators and their furry friends to gather and celebrate their love of surfing. The crowd was a mix of serious competitors and casual observers, all gathered to share in the excitement. Dogs dressed in swim trunks and sunglasses mingled on the beach, but it was the canine athletes on the water who truly stole the show. Over a dozen pups, from small terriers to large Labradors, paddled out on the water with their owners, preparing to catch the perfect wave. The judges carefully watched each performance, evaluating how long the dogs managed to stay on their boards, their balance, and any impressive maneuvers they performed. “It’s subjective,” explained judge Sam Stahl when asked what they were looking for during the judging process. “It’s a feeling. You’re looking for ability to stand, ride, move in the wave. You’re looking for style. How panicked or how calm the dog is. That makes a difference.” While all the competitors were incredible, some really blew the crowd away. One such exceptional pup was Koa, a chocolate Labrador Retriever who tied for first place in the extra-large dog category and won second place overall. Koa’s enthusiasm and excitement were infectious, with her tail wagging furiously as she rode the waves, fueled by the cheers from the crowd. Her human partner also helped her take home second place in the human-dog tandem category, an event that showcases teamwork and trust. The event’s overall winner, Cacau, a chocolate lab, traveled all the way from Brazil to compete! While the competition was amazing, the stories behind the surfers were just as compelling. Charlie, a 10-year-old yellow lab, loves surfing so much that his parents admit they sometimes have to hide his board if they want to enjoy a quiet day hanging out on the beach. Charlie and his human partner, Jeff Nieboer, shared their adorable pre-wave ritual. Jeff finds a good wave, turns the board, and tells Charlie to get ready. Charlie then leans to steer the board, demonstrating a remarkable level of skill that most wouldn’t expect to see from a pup. Another remarkable story was that of Iza, a 5-year-old French Bulldog who won the medium-size dog category. Her dog dad, David Fasoli, taught her how to balance on a surfboard in a swimming pool during the pandemic. The World Dog Surfing Championships aren’t just about winning medals and bragging rights. It’s a celebration of the powerful connection between pets and their parents. Each dog that rode the waves that day, from the seasoned competitors to the newcomers, shared a moment of trust, teamwork, and accomplishment with their parents. It goes to show just how far people will go to provide their pets with a life full of adventure and joy! Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Your Dog’s Graying Might Not Be Normal

You may notice your dog’s fur losing its color with age. This is normal and natural, just as graying comes with aging in people. And you’ll mostly notice the graying around your dog’s muzzle. But there is a time when graying might not be healthy, and might instead be a cause for concern. Keep reading to learn when graying in dogs is considered abnormal.

Hamsters vs Guinea Pigs: Which Pet Is Right for You?

Hamsters and guinea pigs are two of the most popular small pets, especially for young children. While they both may be small and cute, they have notably different personalities, needs, and care requirements. Understanding their differences will help you decide which furry companion suits you best.

F1 Driver Lewis Hamilton Sits Vigil for His Best Buddy, Roscoe

12-year-old English Bulldog in coma after heart stops during treatment for pneumonia.

The Best Hacks for Getting a Sick Dog to Eat

Indoor vs. Outdoor Cats: Weighing up the Pros & Cons

Choosing whether your cat should live comfortably indoors or roam freely outside is one of the most important decisions a cat owner can make. Each lifestyle offers unique benefits and drawbacks for your pet's health, safety, and happiness, as well as your own peace of mind. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the pros and cons of indoor vs. outdoor cats to help guide your decision.

Pyrenees Becomes Super-Hero After Finding Toddler Missing in Desert

Portly Pyrenees ranch-hand find missing toddler while doing the rounds... and brings him home.

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.

5 Common Garden Hazards to Keep Away From Pets

While gardens may seem like a safe space for pets to roam free, they can sometimes harbor surprising dangers that many pet parents overlook. Whether you're planting a new bed of flowers or letting your dog sunbathe on the lawn, here are five garden hazards that could put your pets at risk.

Is Your Dog’s Vision Getting Cloudy? It Could Be Cataracts

If you’ve recently noticed your dog is starting to hesitate on the staircase they’ve climbed a thousand times before or bumping into the living room furniture that hasn’t moved in years, it’s only natural to worry. Your heart sinks a little as you wonder what’s wrong with your best friend.These changes can be subtle at first, but they can be a sign of a larger issue with your dog’s vision. One of the most common causes of this kind of gradual change is a condition called cataracts.In this post, I’ll explore what cataracts are, discuss the many reasons they may develop, and help you identify the signs. Most importantly, I’ll share the information you need to give your dog the best possible quality of life.What Are Cataracts?Let’s start with the basics: what exactly are cataracts? Imagine your dog’s eye is a tiny camera, and inside that camera, there’s a lens that focuses light onto the back of the eye to create an image. In a healthy eye, this lens is perfectly clear and allows light to pass through without any obstruction. A cataract is a clouding of the lens.When looking at your dog, the cloudiness may look like a smudge or fog stretching across the eye and covering your view of the iris. This cloudiness is caused by the proteins in the lens clumping together, which prevents light from passing through properly. As the condition progresses, the cloudiness becomes denser, blocking even more light.In the early stages, the cloudiness will cause your dog’s vision to be blurry. However, if it’s allowed to progress to a more advanced stage, it can lead to complete blindness.Cataracts vs. Nuclear SclerosisIf you have a senior dog whose eyes are starting to show a light haze, it’s easy to jump to the conclusion that it’s a cataract. This is a common concern, but it may be an age-related change called nuclear sclerosis.Nuclear sclerosis is a natural hardening of the lens that happens with age, causing the eye to have a hazy, grayish appearance. Unlike cataracts, it typically doesn’t significantly impact their vision. A cataract, on the other hand, is a more opaque, milky-white clouding that limits the passage of light into the eye. Only a veterinarian can tell for sure which one your dog has.Causes of Cataracts in DogsWhile we often associate cataracts with getting older, there are several reasons your dog may develop them (even at a younger age). Understanding the potential causes can help you take preventative steps and, where prevention isn’t possible, to prepare yourself to give your pup the best possible care.Genetic PredispositionOne of the most common factors, and unfortunately not preventable, is your dog’s genetics. Just like in people, some dogs are simply more prone to developing cataracts due to their breed. Breeds like Poodles, Cocker Spaniels, Golden Retrievers, and Siberian Huskies are all at higher risk. If you know your dog’s lineage, it can give you a heads-up and a reason to be extra vigilant about any changes in their eye health, even from a young age.DiabetesThis is a big one. Diabetes is the most common preventable cause of rapidly developing cataracts in dogs. The link is direct and powerful. When a dog has high blood sugar, it affects the chemical makeup of the eye’s lens. This causes it to swell and become cloudy very quickly.Cataracts are often one of the first signs that a dog is suffering from undiagnosed diabetes. If your vet suspects the clouding is from cataracts, they will almost always test for diabetes as well.Injury or Trauma to the EyeA strike to the head, a scratch, or any kind of physical injury to the eye can cause significant damage to its delicate parts, including the lens. This trauma can impact the proteins within the lens, triggering the formation of a cataract. This is why it’s so important to be careful with your dog around things like sharp sticks and other potential hazards, or to use eye protection (like Rex Specs Goggles) when most at risk. Other Potential Causes While less common, there are other factors that can also contribute to the formation of cataracts. Chronic inflammation inside the eye, a condition known as uveitis, can damage the lens over time. In rare cases, especially in puppies, nutritional deficiencies can play a role, with the lens failing to develop properly. Ultimately, like with people, some cataracts are simply a part of the natural aging process, a gradual change that can happen to any dog as they get older. Warning Signs to Watch Out For Noticing that something might be wrong with your dog’s vision usually starts with subtle changes in their behavior. They can’t tell you that their vision is blurry, but their body language can help communicate that something is happening. Subtle Behavioral Changes These are often the earliest cues. You may notice your once active dog starts to hesitate before jumping onto their favorite spot on the couch or going up and down the stairs. They may seem a little confused, especially in new or dimly lit environments, possibly bumping into furniture or bumping into door frames that they use to navigate without any problems. You may also see a change in their play, as they stop engaging in their favorite games like fetch or struggle to catch treats when tossed their way. Sometimes a dog may become more anxious or clingy when their vision starts to change, especially if they are in an unfamiliar space. Physical Signs of Cataracts in DogsIn addition to behavioral changes, especially as the condition escalates, you may be able to see physical signs in your dog’s eyes. This is why many veterinarians recommend that dog parents do regular eye checks at home, helping them catch subtle changes early. When looking into your dog’s eye, look for a noticeable cloudy, milky-white, or bluish-gray appearance in one or both pupils. One or both pupils may not look as dark or black as they used to. While a hazy look can be a sign of nuclear sclerosis, a dense, opaque white appearance is a stronger indicator of a true cataract.

Signs of Anxiety in Cats

Cats develop anxiety for various reasons. Some experience separation anxiety, while others might be fine until they go through a sudden change in routine or move to a new home. Anxiety can also occur if a cat is traumatized, sick or in pain, or stressed by other pets or loud noises. Even being poorly socialized can lead to anxiousness.