Dogs of Summer! Here's How to Avoid Heat Stroke This Year!

by Mary Simpson

Published: April 28th, 2025

dogs of summer here s how to avoid heat stroke this year

(photo credit: Lindsay Helms / shutterstock.com)

For urban dogs, the lack of shade-providing trees and that hot city pavement underfoot can result in a variety of sun-induced health issues you may not have seen coming.

While humans are typically diligent about taking steps to minimize the effect of dangerous UV rays and scorching heat – thinking baseball caps, visors, sunglasses, sunblock, and more – our pets are often left to the elements and struggle to cope. We think that providing cold drinking water is sufficient to hydrate and keep their body temperature down, but it’s not enough. Just like the person on the other end of their leash, dogs too, can experience sunburn and skin cancers including squamous cell carcinoma and malignant melanomas not to mention the impact of hot pavement, patio stones, asphalt, and even artificial turf that can result in blistered pads and elevated body temperature leading to heat stroke.

If your pet has been out in the sun for any period of time and is panting heavily, beginning to drool and his fur feels hot to the touch, it’s time to immediately move him into the shade, provide him with cold water and take steps to lower his body temperature. This can include spraying him with cool water and placing cold towels around his core area. If he has progressed to the stage of vomiting, or collapsing, or his gums have turned pale, a veterinarian intervention is required.

So, how do you prevent a good walk on a nice sunny day from turning into a medical emergency? Prepare! Happily, the pet industry has thought through a myriad of options.

One of the easiest ways is slipping him into this breathable sun protection dog shirt. I love the tank-style design of this option because it means no wrestling dog legs into too-tight sleeves. Been there, done that! And, because it’s stretchy, it delivers a nice, snug-to-the-body fit for optimal sun protection across his back, shoulders, and belly. Of course, breathability is key and the jersey-style material used with this dog t-shirt blocks the UV rays while allowing heat to escape up and away from your pet. That means further protection from overheating. Totally machine-washable and in a two-pack format, this is the perfect pick for a multi-pet or muddy-pet household.

It makes sense that if we wear sunglasses to protect our eyes from the harmful effects of UV rays, dust, and those nasty creases that come from squinting into the sun, our dog should take a page from our book. Well, maybe not the squint line part, but certainly the protection from UV damage. And that’s why finding a pair of goggle-style dog sunglasses that offer the same type of safety features, just makes sense. But because our little buddy’s tolerance for eyewear is much different than ours, finding a comfortable option is important. Say hello to these peepers from NVTED. They tick every box with larger lenses that properly cover any eye size or configuration, an adjustable strap, an anti-fog finish, shatterproof lenses and soft padding around the frame for maximum comfort.

Chasing just a little extra coverage for a quick outing on a sunny day? Check out this pet-friendly dog baseball cap with extra wide brim for face, eye, and nose protection. It’s a perfect choice for adding a little extra sun protection to your outdoor fun – particularly for dogs that enjoy a good walk but aren’t overly active. Translation: likely to lose their hat in a tussle with others or while chasing a frisbee The adjustable drawstring closure allows for a comfortably snug fit while peep-holes for his ears help keep his chapeau in place a little longer on those windy days. I love that the fabric is totally breathable and waterproof for those rainy-day jaunts.

If your pooch loves the outdoors but overheats easily you want serious protection for when sunny weather means serious play. And because heat stroke can sneak up on you and your pet, having a quick, effective way to cool him down needs to become part of your play plan. Dogs that are flat-faced (brachycephalic), overweight, or have health issues, can be prone to heat stroke and that’s why including a dog cooling vest in with his arsenal of balls and frisbees is a no-brainer. Easy to use and comfortable to wear, this machine-washable option from CoolerDog uses Velcro tabs for a snug fit around his torso and neck – key areas to promote quick cooling. And their unique FlexiFreeze ice resists melting for up to 30 minutes of cooling comfort making it serious protection from heat stroke.

Urban dogs don’t get the benefit of cool forest floors or dewy grassy pastures. Yes, our city pups hit the bricks – literally – with cement, asphalt, and pavers underfoot, that heat up quickly under the summer sun. And yes, dog paws can blister and burn with prolonged exposure. Further, your pet “sweats” through his paws and when they’re continually drawing in heat from the sidewalk, he’s at greater risk of developing heat stroke. What to do? Outfit him in a great-looking set of four paw protector boots. I think this poochie footgear is what you’ll want. Durable, adjustable, and skid-resistant, they offer sensitive paws the perfect level of protection from hot city streets Best of all, that leopard-print finish is just so stylin’.

Heading out into a super-hot day? Why not pre-protect your pet with a super-effective water-cooling dog vest like this adjustable option from SGODA? Using three layers of cooling fabric, you simply soak the entire vest in cold water before heading out on your walk. Wring it out, secure to your pooch, and let the evaporative powers of the wet vest keep your pet cool. And not only does this lightweight gear keep your pet cool longer but the breathable, mesh surface wicks the moisture away from your dog’s skin while offering UV protection on those full-sun days. Velcro and a double-zip closure are the perfect way to ensure super-active dogs don’t slip their vest while running and playing.

Mary Simpson

Sharing space with three seriously judgy Schnoodles and 2 felines who prefers to be left alone. #LivingMyBestLife

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Pets Can Get Sunburned Too - Here’s What You Need to Know

Most pet owners know the dangers of overheating and hot pavement during summer, but there’s another seasonal risk that often flies under the radar: sunburn. While it’s common to think of sunburn as a human problem, animals, especially dogs and cats, can suffer the same painful effects of too much sun exposure.And it’s more than just an occasional red nose. Prolonged sun exposure can lead to peeling, inflammation, long-term skin damage, and in some cases, even skin cancer in pets.“Pets with light-colored fur or thin coats are particularly at risk,” warns Peony Melbourne, a veterinary surgeon with the RCVS in the UK. “Areas like the nose, ears, and belly are especially vulnerable, these spots aren’t protected by fur and can burn easily.”Sunburn tends to affect areas where an animal’s fur is thin or absent, such as the tips of the ears, the nose, the belly, and around the eyes. Animals with light-colored fur or pink skin are at the highest risk, as are certain breeds with very short or sparse coats. Hairless breeds, such as the Chinese Crested dog or Sphynx cat, are particularly vulnerable, although even well-coated pets can be at risk in certain areas.The most common signs of sunburn in pets include reddened or warm skin, excessive licking or scratching at the affected area, sensitivity to touch, or visible peeling. In more severe cases, skin may blister or scab, which can require medical treatment.According to veterinary professionals, the best way to protect pets is to limit their exposure to direct sunlight during peak UV hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If pets are outside during these hours, access to shade is crucial.In addition to minimizing sun exposure, pet-safe sunscreen is another line of defense. These products are formulated without ingredients toxic to animals, such as zinc oxide or certain essential oils, both of which are commonly found in human sunscreens. Sunscreen made specifically for pets can be applied to high-risk areas like the nose, ears, and belly. Some formulations come in wipes or sticks, making application less of a battle.For pets who spend extended time outdoors, whether hiking, at the beach, or just lounging in the yard, lightweight UV-protective clothing is becoming more common. These garments are especially helpful for dogs with exposed skin or recent hair loss due to surgery or allergies.Although most sunburns are mild and heal with time, they should not be ignored. Owners who notice any unusual redness, discomfort, or behavior changes in their pets after sun exposure should contact a veterinarian. Self-treatment with home remedies is not recommended, as many over-the-counter products can be harmful if licked or absorbed.Heat stress is also a concern during summer months, and it often goes hand in hand with sunburn. Ensuring pets have access to fresh water, cool resting spots, and ventilation can prevent more serious complications like heatstroke.While the idea of sunburn in pets may seem surprising, the truth is that animals are not immune to the same environmental risks humans face. As more research focuses on pet skin health, veterinarians hope awareness will grow.In short, if you’re applying sunscreen before heading outside, it might be time to think about your pet, too. A few simple precautions can make all the difference—and help keep those noses pink, but not burned.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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What Are the Signs of Dental Disease in Cats?

What would you do if someone told you there is a hidden issue silently affecting the comfort and well-being of many beloved kitties, something we might not even notice until it becomes a significant (and painful) problem?That hidden issue is feline dental disease.Dental problems are incredibly common, affecting a surprisingly high number of cats. Studies have found that between 50 and 90% of cats over the age of four are currently living with some form of dental disease, but it often goes unnoticed because our feline friends are masters of hiding pain.This guide will help you learn to recognize even the most subtle warning signs that your cat may be dealing with dental problems, the most common types of dental disease in cats, and how to prioritize dental care to prevent a problem before it develops.Understanding Dental Problems in CatsIt’s easy to assume that if your cat is acting normally, their mouth is fine. But the reality is that dental disease is a progressive struggle that often starts small and silently gets worse over time.It begins when bacteria in your cat’s mouth mix with food particles and saliva to form plaque – a soft, sticky film that coats their teeth. If that plaque isn’t removed, it hardens into tartar. Once tartar forms, it creates a rough surface that allows even more plaque to accumulate, laying the foundation for more serious issues to develop.While that summarizes the basics, dental disease isn’t a single problem. Instead, as the plaque and tartar continue to get worse, it can develop into a spectrum of conditions. Understanding these different conditions is the first step toward recognizing that your cat might be suffering and taking the necessary steps to help them feel better.GingivitisThis is the earliest stage of dental disease, characterized by inflammation of the gums. It’s primarily caused by the accumulation of plaque and bacteria along the gum line. You may notice your cat’s gums appearing red, swollen, or even bleeding easily, especially when touched or when your cat eats. You may also see small amounts of blood on your cat’s favourite chew toys.The good news is that gingivitis is often reversible with professional veterinary dental cleaning and consistent at-home dental care. The key to success is catching it early!Periodontal DiseaseIf gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontal disease. This is a much more serious condition that affects not just the gums but also the deeper structures that support the tooth, such as the bone and ligaments that hold the tooth in its socket. The bacteria and inflammation start to destroy these supporting structures, leading to the formation of “pockets” under the gumline where bacteria can accumulate.The damage caused by periodontal disease ultimately leads to bone loss, receding gums, and eventually, painful tooth loss. 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However, affected cats may show signs of pain when eating (suddenly dropping food, chattering their jaws, reluctance to chew on one side), drooling, or increased sensitivity when the mouth is touched.StomatitisThis is a severe, widespread, and extremely painful inflammation of the entire mouth, not just the gums around the teeth. It can affect the gums, tongue, cheeks, and the back of the throat. Stomatitis is often an immune-mediated condition caused by the cat’s immune system overreacting to the bacteria and plaque in their mouth.Cats with stomatitis are in severe pain, massively impacting their quality of life. They are often uninterested in or unable to eat, excessively drooling, and may have very bad breath. Managing stomatitis can be challenging and usually requires aggressive treatment. In many cases, it will require full-month tooth extractions to relieve the pain and inflammation.Fractured TeethJust like humans, cats can fracture their teeth. 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Often, they will suffer in silence, and by the time we notice something is wrong, the condition has progressed to more advanced stages.This is why it’s so crucial for us to be in tune with our cats and aware of even the most subtle changes. Don’t wait for your cat to scream in pain.Behavioral Changes (Often Subtle)These are the most common red flags, but they require a keen eye and understanding of your cat’s everyday habits. After all, no one knows your cat better than you.You might first notice changes in their eating habits. Your cat might start chewing more slowly, dropping pieces of food, or tilting their head to one side while chewing to avoid a painful area. If your cat suddenly seems picky about their dry food or treats, but eagerly digs into their wet food, it could be a sign that chewing hard kibble is simply too painful. Even a slight change in appetite or less enthusiasm at mealtimes should warrant investigation. Changes in grooming are another subtle sign. 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Research Finds Anxious Cats at Higher Risk for Bladder Inflammation

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Watch Out for These Signs of TroubleYour cat’s litter box is often the first place you’ll notice a problem. Paying careful attention while cleaning their box can literally save their life! Some litter box-related warning signs include: Straining to Pee: This is the most common and critical sign. You might notice your cat is squatting repeatedly in the litter box, often for extended periods, but producing little to no urine. They may vocalize, cry out, or grunt while attempting to go. Frequent Trips to the Litter Box: Your cat might go in and out of the litter box multiple times within a short period, appearing anxious or restless, often without success. Accidents Outside the Litter Box: If your cat, who is typically well litter-trained, suddenly starts peeing outside the box in places like the bathtub or on laundry, it’s likely not just “bad behavior.” These accidents are a sign of discomfort or a medical issue. Look for small puddles, even just drops, to identify that a urinary blockage could be responsible. Behavioral and Physical Warning SignsBeyond the litter box, a blocked cat will often show other signs of pain or distress, especially as the condition worsens. Here are a few changes to watch out for: Vocalization: Your cat may be more talkative than usual, crying, howling, or meowing excessively, especially when attempting to use the litter box or if you touch their abdomen. This is a sign they are in pain. Restlessness or Hiding: A cat in pain may become restless, start pacing, or be unable to settle. On the other end of the spectrum, some cats will hide when feeling uncomfortable. Weakness or Loss of Energy: As toxins build up in their system, your cat will become lethargic, weak, and depressed. You may notice they lose interest in their favorite activities, play toys, or even physical interaction with their person (you). Abdominal Pain or Bloating: If you gently feel your cat’s lower abdomen (behind their hind legs), it may feel hard, firm, or bloated due to a full, painful bladder. Your cat will likely try to pull away or react negatively to being touched in this area. Vomiting and Loss of Appetite: These are later signs, indicating that toxins have built up to the point of significantly impacting their system. When a cat reaches this stage, they are experiencing serious medical complications. The “No Urine” Red Flag If your cat is straining repeatedly and producing no urine at all for several hours, this is a serious and life-threatening emergency. Do not wait! Call your veterinarian or the nearest emergency clinic immediately. What Causes Urinary Blockages? Urinary blockages are often part of a broader condition known as Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD), an umbrella term used to describe several disorders that affect a cat’s bladder and urethra. In many cases, the exact cause of FLUTD isn’t found. Experts say it is often a combination of contributing factors, including: Diet: Cats on an exclusively dry food diet often have lower water intake, leading to more concentrated urine, which can increase the risk of crystals forming. Diets high in certain minerals (like magnesium and phosphorus) can also increase the risk. Finally, diets that don’t promote an ideal urine pH may increase the risk of crystals and bladder stones. Water Intake: Dehydration is incredibly common in cats. This could be due to a dry food-only diet or a reluctance to drink enough water throughout the day. Stress: Environmental stress is a massive trigger for FLUTD flare-ups. Stress may be caused by changes in routine, new pets, changes to the family members in your home, household conflict, home renovations, or even a dirty litter box. Obesity: Overweight cats may be at a higher risk for urinary issues. Genetics: Some individual cats or breeds (like Persians and Himalayans) may be genetically more likely to develop urinary problems.

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Could Your Dog or Cat Be Protecting Your Brain as You Age?

As loving pet parents, we’re constantly looking for ways to give our best friend the best possible quality of life, from focusing on high-quality nutrition to engaging toys and plenty of cuddles. But what if the love and care we shower on our pets also comes with a remarkable benefit for us? A recent study has revealed fascinating insights into how owning a dog or cat might actually help preserve certain brain functions as we age. This isn’t just about the joy they bring; it’s about a potential, long-term impact on our cognitive health. Led by Adriana Rostekova, this study used over 18 years of data from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe to examine the relationship between pet ownership and brain function in adults aged 50 and older. The findings are not just interesting, they’re surprisingly specific! The study examined two key aspects of cognition: episodic memory and executive functioning. Episodic memory is your ability to recall personal experiences, like remembering what you had for breakfast or where you parked your car. Executive functioning, on the other hand, is a set of skills you use every day to manage tasks, make plans, and solve problems. Both are key aspects of a strong, healthy mind, especially as the impact of aging begins to take hold as we move into our golden years. Researchers found that owning a pet, in general, was associated with a protective effect on brain health; however, the link was strongest for dog and cat owners. It appears that our furry friends may offer a unique form of mental stimulation. The daily routine of caring for a dog or cat, the physical activity involved, and the rich emotional connection can all contribute to keeping the brain active. Think of the mental workout that comes from remembering your dog’s daily walk schedule or trying to interpret the subtle cues of your cat’s loud meowing. What’s particularly interesting in this study is the distinction it makes between different types of pets. While fish and birds are beloved companions and loving members of our family, their owners did not show the same protective effects. “Several explanations may help explain the absence of this association in fish and bird owners, despite the reports of their ownership’s positive influence on wellbeing in ways that are usually associated with cognitive benefits,” explained Rostekova. “ A fish or bird’s short lifespan may potentially limit the level of emotional connection one is able to develop with the pet first. Bird ownership may negatively affect the owner’s sleep quality due to the increased noise levels, which has been shown to be associated with cognitive decline.”On the other hand, it could be more about what being a dog or cat parent adds to our lives. A dog’s need for daily exercise gets us out and about, often leading to social interactions with other people, which is another well-known factor in cognitive health. A cat, while often more independent, still provides companionship and a comforting presence. It’s important to remember that this study shows a correlation, not a direct cause-and-effect relationship. It’s possible that individuals who are already healthier and more socially active are more likely to adopt a pet in the first place. Further study is needed to get to the truth of the matter. But for those of us who are already committed to giving our animals the best life, this is simply another reason to celebrate that special bond. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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Could My Cat’s Drooling Be a Sign of Trouble?

Unlike a dog, drooling is not a normal part of the cat experience. When your cat leaves a damp spot on the lap or on the floor, it’s natural to feel worried. It’s important to recognize that drooling isn’t a standalone diagnosis or condition. Instead, it’s a symptom of trouble that can be associated with a wide spectrum of situations, ranging from a “happy drool” signaling contentment (yes, it can happen) to a medical problem that needs veterinary attention.To help you distinguish between the two, I will break down the most common explanations for kitty drooling, highlighting which should be considered a cause for concern. Knowing when to simply wipe it away and when to pick up the phone to call your vet can make all the difference in keeping your cat safe, happy, and healthy!The “Happy Drool”Before panic sets in, there are a select few very specific situations where a little bit of cat drool is no cause for alarm. Take a moment to consider the details surrounding your cat’s drooling and whether it could definitively be connected with one of the following cases. This type of drooling is typically temporary, mild, and stops immediately once the context changes, allowing you to take a deep breath and relax. The Purr Drool Believe it or not, excessive happiness is the most common normal reason a cat will drool, making them not all that different from their canine counterparts. This behavior is a direct, neurological link back to their kittenhood and the nursing reflex. When kittens nurse, they instinctively knead on their mother’s belly to stimulate milk flow. This action, combined with the satisfaction of a full belly, creates a powerful association. As adults, when a cat feels incredibly safe, content, or loved, it may trigger this same reflex, causing your cat to purr and knead (often referred to as “ making biscuits”), which in turn can stimulate the salivary glands. They could literally be so happy that they forget to swallow. Purr drooling is almost always accompanied by: Loud purring Kneading on a soft surface or your lapA completely relaxed, blissful expressionIt stops the moment the petting or purring stopsA Stress ResponseWhile this isn’t a happy explanation, it’s still one that brings little overall worry. Feelings of stress, anxiety, and fear can also trigger a similar (and temporary) physical reaction. When feeling a heightened state of anxiety, your cat’s body can release stress hormones that affect the digestive system and salivary glands, causing them to produce more saliva than normal. This increase in saliva may escape their mouth, leading to drooling. This is most often seen during car rides (due to motion sickness or fear), vet visits, or exposure to loud, sudden noises like thunderstorms and fireworks. The drooling is generally short-lived and will stop once the source of their stress is removed. Watch for other signs of stress, such as wide eyes, flattened ears, excessive vocalization, or hiding. Bad Tastes or Bitter Medication Cats have extremely sensitive palates, and anything that is bitter, foul-tasting, or irritating will trigger an immediate flood of saliva to wash the substance out of the mouth. This is a quick defense response, with the body trying to dilute and flush out the unpleasant or irritating substance. It’s likely rooted in the fact that toxins generally have a bitter taste. If this occurs after your cat has been given liquid medication or an improperly coated pill that tastes bitter, it will stop as soon as they successfully swallow the medication and the taste clears from their mouth. You can try using pleasant forms of medication delivery that help mask the taste, such as pill pocket treats or incorporating a tasty broth. Always check with your veterinarian before mixing your cat's medication with any other substance. However, if the drooling is prolonged or accompanied by foaming, it shifts from being a benign and inconsequential reaction to a potential sign of toxicity, which I will discuss later. The “Worry Drool” If your cat’s drooling is persistent, excessive, new, or accompanied by other signs of trouble, there is a good possibility that it is caused by an underlying health issue. This type of drooling requires a prompt call to your veterinarian so they can do a thorough exam and identify the root cause. Unlike the “Happy Drool,” which is fleeting and linked to emotion, this “Worry Drool” is caused by a physical problem that is either causing them to produce more saliva than usual or preventing them from swallowing saliva normally. Here are the most common and serious medical explanations for excessive drooling in cats, organized by the body system they affect: Dental and Oral Disease (The Most Common Culprit)Experts estimate that anywhere between 50 and 90% of cats over the age of four will suffer from some form of dental disease, making this a surprisingly common struggle. When faced with the pain and irritation caused by dental problems, your cat’s body may produce more saliva to try to soothe the pain. Unfortunately, the pain itself often makes swallowing difficult. The most common dental problems your cat may be facing include: Periodontal Disease and Gingivitis: Inflammation and infection of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth can cause chronic pain and irritation, leading to drooling. Feline Odontoclastic Resorptive Lesions (FORLs): These are extremely painful erosions of the tooth structure, often at the gum line. They are equivalent to severe cavities and can cause very painful sensitivity, as well as excessive salivation. Oral Ulcers and Infections: Sores in the mouth caused by chronic diseases (like advanced kidney failure) or acute infections (like feline calicivirus) are excruciatingly painful and lead to constant drooling. Oral Trauma: Injuries such as a fractured tooth, a cut on the cheek or tongue, or a broken jaw from an accident or a cat fight will cause pain and an inability to properly close the mouth, causing your cat to drool. If your cat’s drooling is caused by oral pain, you may notice they have developed noticeable bad breath or started to show unexplained weight loss. Due to pain and discomfort, they may be reluctant to eat (especially dry or crunchy food) or may drop food from their mouth while eating. Any of these warning signs warrants a vet visit.

New Report Reveals Exciting Shifts in How We Love Our Pets

If you’re like most pet parents, you’re always looking for ways to give your best friend the most amazing life possible. And it turns out, you’re not alone! The American Pet Products Association (APPA) recently released their 2025 Dog & Cat Report, offering interesting insights into how pet ownership is growing and evolving. Spoiler: It’s showing our dedication to our pets is stronger than ever! For years, dogs seemed to be in the spotlight, but the APPA’s new data suggests 2024 was truly “The Year of the Cat.” They reported an impressive 23% increase in cat ownership in 2024, with 49 million U.S. households now including a cat in their family, up from 40 million in 2023. What’s more, cat parents are embracing multi-cat households like never before. The number of homes with three or more cats has jumped by a surprising 36% since 2018.But it’s not just about quantity; it’s about quality. Cat parents are building even stronger bonds with their kitties. The report shows a significant jump in the number of cat parents using training methods (up 41% since 2018) and purchasing items like leashes and harnesses. Yes, you read that right, even more cat parents are now exploring outside the home with their cats (and as a cat mom who loves to camp and hike with my own cats, I’m here for it)! For those who love to celebrate, cat birthday parties and pet-themed merchandise are also gaining popularity, showing just how big of a role our cats play in our daily lives. Dog parents also continue to build stronger connections with their pups, integrating them into nearly every aspect of their lives. Dogs are no longer just pets. They are companions, travel buddies, and best friends. The report highlights that dog parents increasingly include their pups in daily routines, promoting active and healthy living. Over half of dog parents (53%) take their dogs on daily errands on foot at least once a week. Travel with our furry friends is also on the rise, with more dogs flying (74% in the last year, up from 68% in 2023) and consistently hitting the open road with us by car. If you’ve ever wished you could bring your dog to work, you’re in good company. Nearly half of dog parents (49%) expressed interest in a dog-friendly workplace. These trends underscore a desire to honestly share our daily experiences, even the mundane and routine ones (like work), with our best friends. Beyond companionship, the report emphasized that there has been a growing focus on prioritizing proactive pet wellness, especially when it comes to nutrition and supplements. Pet parents are increasingly opting to purchase premium pet foods and functional add-ons. In 2024, premium food purchases increased for dog and cat parents, while basic food purchases declined. There has also been a notable growth in the use of mixers and toppers for pet food, with increases of over 129% for dogs and 138% for cats since 2018. Vitamins and supplements are also seeing a significant boost, being used by over half of dog parents (53%) and more than a third of cat parents (34%). Popular choices include supplements for joint health, multivitamins, pre- and probiotics, digestion supplements ( especially for cats), and those supporting skin and coat health. Ultimately, the report paints a clear picture: pet parenting is changing and evolving, and our dedication to providing the best possible quality of life for our pets is definitely the top priority! Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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