AutoDiet Feeder Puts An End To Your Pets’ All-You-Can-Eat Buffet

by Lydia McNutt

Published: April 29th, 2015

autodiet feeder puts an end to your pets all you can eat buffet

When you have more than one pet, meal time can turn into a feeding frenzy. But the programmable AutoDiet Feeder stops greedy gorging and food bullying in multi-pet households.

Feeding time is a free-for-all at my house. The meowing and whining starts at 5 AM, and by the time the food gets doled out, my two cats and dog are a ravenous, restless bunch. And who is actually eating whose kibble? I have my suspicions. My cat Phoebe, otherwise known as “the fat one,” devours her meal, and then proceeds to manhandle Brewster and polish off her share as well. Poor, skinny little Brewster. And don’t even get me started with Fred – aka the canine trash compactor.

Aside from the hungry factor, we’ve got the weight factor to content with, not to mention those early morning wake-up calls! On top of that, I know that getting between my pets and their food risks immanent injury. It’s Wireless Whiskers’ AutoDiet Feeder to the rescue! This smart feeder is the solution to food bullies and bingers in multi-pet households, ensuring that each pet gets its fair share.

How It Works

Simply attach the wireless tag to your pet’s collar, which contains programmed information including a customizable feeding schedule and pre-determined serving size. Whether your pet eats two large meals a day or six small ones, the AutoDiet Feeder can accommodate and dole out food when appropiate. When Fido approaches, the automatic feeder reads his identity and profile, measures out the pre-determined food amount, the doors open and voila – chow time! When he reaches his food limit or leaves the feeder (what would typically signal open season for the other animals!) the doors automatically close to prevent food sneaking by the others.

A single feeder can serve up to eight pets, as long as they all eat the same food. If your brood is a canine/feline combo or the pets require different diets, you’ll want a separate feeder for each food on the menu.

One Feeder, Many Benefits

The fair factor: Each pet gets its food without worries of it getting eaten up by a lurker. Because you can’t watch your greedy dog at all times of the day, the AutoFeeder makes sure all your pets get their fair share.

The fat factor: If your pet is like mine, then it’s likely always hungry and a little rounder than you’d like it to be. While dogs can be exercised to help reach their ideal healthy weight, cats are often more sedentary and thus, more difficult to keep in check. The AutoDiet Feeder doles out the optimal amount of food, and it records how much was eaten (as increases or decreases in food intake can be indicators of underlying health problems).

The time factor: Aside from those early morning wake-up calls, we’ve all gotten stuck in traffic, or been caught up at work, or gone out for dinner that turned into late-night drinks while the pets’ tummies rumble as they wait, and wait, and wait… The AutoDiet Feeder is programmed with each pet’s designated feeding time, so whether you make it home or not, dinner (or breakfast!) is on. On the other hand, if you prefer to be in charge, you can always forgo the fully automatic control and operate the feeder manually.

Designed for cats and small dogs up to 18 inches tall, the AutoDiet Feeder retails for $159.99. You can purchase it online, via the Wireless Whiskers website.

Lydia McNutt is an award winning writer, editor, blogger and proud mama of three of the fur-babies: her two cats, Phoebe and Brewster (who think they are dogs,) and her 90-pound yellow lab, Fred – the biggest lap dog you’ll ever meet. When her head’s not in a cloud of fur, you’ll find Lydia chasing her toddler through the neighborhood, reading a good biography, or writing about… Well, you’ll just have to read more of Lydia’s articles to find out!

Lydia McNutt

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Keep Food Fresh With SureFlap’s Surefeed Sealed Pet Bowl

Signed, sealed, and delivered… when it comes to keeping your pet’s food fresh, that is! The lid on this bowl opens and closes automatically to ensure dinner doesn’t dry up. When you offer your cat fresh food, how much of it does he actually eat before he wanders away from the bowl? How much money do you lose each year on wasted food? Recent research suggests that cat owners who offer their cats wet food throw as much as 30% of that food away because it dries out to the point that their cat is no longer interested in it. This is a common and very concerning problem but, fortunately, there is now a solution – the SureFeed Sealed Pet Bowl from SureFlap. The SureFeed Sealed Pet Bowl is an innovative new pet feeder that automatically opens and closes to seal in freshness and to keep out insects. Related: The ALNpet Smart Feeder Takes Noms To New Tech Heights According to Piers Hampson, Marketing Director for SureFlap, “[wasted pet food] can cost pet owners approximately $15 a month per pet.” That may not sound like a big deal but, if you do the math, it adds up to as much as $180 per year per pet. With the SureFeed Sealed Pet Bowl, pet owners have a simple way to keep pet food fresher longer, reducing or eliminating waste. But how does the product work?

Dogs Get Schooled In Earning Treats With Smart Feeder Pet Tutor Blu

Our latest Kickstarter find – the Bluetooth LE-enabled Pet Tutor Blu encourages good behavior, physical and mental activity through a customizable, reward-based training regimen. How many times have you left Sparky home alone, only to be welcomed back by a wagging tail accompanied by a trashed house, chewed furniture or garbage, torn open, picked through and littering every visible surface? Blame it on boredom, separation anxiety, or a missed meal. Pet parents can all relate. My husband once closed our bedroom door before heading off to work, in an effort to keep our dog off the bed. To keep himself entertained while we were away, our furry friend used our TV remote control as chew toy, which we discovered only after he pooped out little blue buttons the next day. If only there was a way to keep him busy when we’re not around… Related: The ALNpet Smart Feeder Takes Noms To New Tech Heights Pet Tutor Blu is schooling pet owners and educators on the science of training and entertaining your animals. Touted as the world’s smartest pet games and training system, the Bluetooth LE-enabled Pet Tutor Blu is designed to give your fur-ball a mental and physical workout, through the use of apps, games and a food-based reward system. A more humane way to train Whether your dog is a barker, a chewer or a gorger, it’s natural to want to punish bad behavior. But science has proven that positive reinforcement can go a long way to restoring order to your dog house, so to speak. Through rewards, you’ll actually be highlighting good conduct as opposed to focusing on the bad. And if your dog is anything like mine, a little treat goes a long way. Related: AutoDiet Feeder Puts An End To Your Pets’ All-You-Can-Eat Buffet How it works Simply fill the Pet Tutor Blu with your dog’s favorite food or treats, download the app and using your smartphone, smart tablet or the Pet Tutor Blu Smart Clicker, you’ll be able to create a customized program to feed, exercise, train and entertain your pet. And while dogs are the house pet that most commonly comes to mind for this application, this system can also be used for cats, parrots, even horses, employed by animal shelters, zoos, farms, wildlife parks – wherever you find animals, you’ll find use for Pet Tutor Blu. For the pet-lovin’ techies out there If you’ve got an idea for a training or gaming app for your pet, Pet Tutor Blu was designed with open architecture that allows developers to write new programs and add accessories, taking customized training to the next level. Now that you’re as good as sold on this product The makers of Pet Tutor Blu recognized the limitations of laptop-to-remote controls, and as with any truly worthwhile product these days, mobile technology is a must. A Kickstarter campaign is raising money to bring Pet Tutor Blu to the smartphone platform, and help to fund the Smart Clicker accessory. With a Kickstarter goal of $30,000 to get this project off the ground, the team (consisting of animal trainers, engineers, product developers and testers, retail professionals, and sales and marketing gurus) are within reaching distance of their goal. Check out the Pet Tutor website to learn more and pledge one of the rewards to advance the pet industry and make your home a quieter, more orderly, less chewed place.

Pros and Cons: Meal Feeding Vs Free Feeding Dogs

How and when do you feed your dog? Don’t think it’s important? Think again! Let’s go over the pros and cons of meal feeding vs free feeding dogs.It turns out that there’s a lot to think about when it comes to feeding your four-legged chum. One of these things is if you should go with meal feeding or free feeding dogs. If you’re not aware of these concepts, here’s a quick rundown for you: Free-feeding is when you have food available for your pooch at all times and he gets to choose when and how much to eat. Meal feeding is when you give your dog meals at set times every day (ideally, twice a day for adult dogs and three times a day for puppies), and take them away after 30 minutes to an hour, if he doesn’t finish the lot. Of course, there are pros and cons to each method. Check them out and decide which way of feeding is right for you and your pup.Related: How is Commercial Dog Food Regulated?What is Free Feeding?Just like it sounds–feeding freely an unlimited amount of food for your dog to graze on as he desires.Sometimes it’s limited, as you can still control the portion you give, but you leave it to your dog to eat when he needs or wants, and how much at each time.The thing is–not all dogs can be free feeders because they will just wolf all the food at once. It really depends on your dog, though, as many dogs do well with free-feeding if they feel secure in knowing there’s always a meal. In homes with multiple dogs, it’s less easy to ensure each dog gets just what they need.What is Scheduled Feeding?It’s probably just what you think of when you think of ‘feeding the dog.’ It’s giving your dog a set amount of food one to three times a day, and dependent upon each dog. Scheduled feeds typically go according to the dietary needs of a dog and your dog actually will start to ‘tell’ you when it’s time for breakfast or dinner.Scheduled feeding often seems to be the choice of vets because it lets you really track what your dog eats, as well as how much. It lets you and your dog bond–with your dog knowing he can count on you. You’re able to help with potty training because you have a better idea of when he needs to potty and it may just be more convenient for you both.Pros of Meal Feeding DogsYou control how much your dog eats, which should lessen the chance of overeating and obesity.It’s easier to notice if your dog is refusing food, which could be a sign that he’s unwell.It’s the most suitable way to feed wet or fresh foods that might go bad if left out for too long.If you have more than one dog, you can separate them at meal time if food aggression is a problem.It may lessen the chance of your dog getting bloat, and you’ll be around to get him veterinary treatment if he does bloat.Meals can be used as a reward.It gets your dog into a routine, which can help calm anxious pooches.Related: AutoDiet Feeder Puts An End To Your Pets’ All-You-Can-Eat BuffetCons of Meal Feeding DogsIt’s best to stick to roughly the same meal times each day, so you need to be around at this time to feed your dog.You may accidentally be feeding your dog too much or too little.Your four-legged friend might feel pressured to eat, even if he’s not hungry.Pros of Free-Feeding DogsIt’s more convenient for owners who don’t have a regular schedule. This is one of the most obvious advantages of free feeding. If you have a very busy daily schedule, or you are hit with an especially demanding work week, you can always count on your dog having ready food to eat. So, for example, you need to stay extra long at work today. Your dog will likely be fine without your company for those extra few hours, but they still need to eat. With free feeding, you can have that peace of mind, knowing that food is available to them. In theory, your dog should eat the correct amount of food for his needs (but, in practice, this isn’t always the case). A dog with balanced eating practices and a quality daily schedule, will often stick to the routines and norms of their daily life. This means that if they are used to eating a certain amount of food each time, the same will go for free feeding once you attempt it. So, even though there is a mountain of food in front of them, your doggo will eat the regular amount and return later for the next feeding time. But if you know your doggo is a voracious eater, this rule won’t work. Dogs don’t feel the pressure to eat their food right away, as they’re aware it will be there when they want it.Some people claim it can lessen food aggression. There are some doggos that are simply overly protective of their food. Even though no one threatens to take it, these pups will go the extra mile to make sure all the food is theirs. But when they know that there is plenty to go around, the drive to resource guard can quickly disappear. Cons of Free-Feeding DogsCan slow the progress of toilet training in puppies, as you can’t schedule post-meal potty breaks. While this might not be such a big con, and might not be so important this early on, it can still happen, especially if you are big about those post-meal potty breaks and potty training overall.Some dogs will eat even if they’re full, which can lead to obesity. Most doggos are very voracious, and will eat like a vacuum whenever they can. Imagine their joy when they face a big mound of food! So they will devour it, and eat and eat and eat, even after they had their fill. This overfeeding can lead to so many issues, especially with the digestive system. Bloating, gassiness, vomiting, diarrhea, and anything similar can become a big issue. But most dangerous is obesity which can quickly happen due to overfeeding. With obesity, your pet’s health is directly threatened in many ways, and you will need to react quickly. Free-fed dogs tend to be less food motivated, which can make training more difficult. A doggo with a full belly loves a good afternoon snooze. But a dog that knows there is a big pile of food always waiting around the corner, will have no motivation for anything else but snoozing and chilling. And that’s no good. A dog needs to be energetic and have exercise, and to follow that natural instinct of acquiring their food. When there’s food always ready in great amounts, the motivation to do anything else quickly drops down to zero. You can’t free-feed foods that will spoil. This is somewhat logical, but it’s worth mentioning. If you have dog food that really should not be left in the open for long, free feeding is immediately out of the question. Such foods will get spoiled really quickly, sometimes quicker than you think. This is especially true in those hot summer months. With such foods you are risking feeding your pet spoiled food, which can quickly lead to diarrhea, vomiting, and an upset stomach – at the very least.As you can see, both methods have their good and bad points. It really boils down to you and you pooch. If you’re out a lot or work irregular hours, it might not be possible to meal feed your dog. However, if this is the case, you should bear in mind that dogs do need companionship and shouldn’t be alone too much of the time. As for your four-legged friend, if he’s the kind of dog who will eat everything in sight, no matter if he’s hungry or not, then free-feeding probably isn’t for him!

Dogs Can Rock Out With The Rock ’N Bowl Feeder

It’s a dinner that’ll make your dog think! The environmentally friendly PAW5 Rock N’ Bowl is a foodie puzzle that drives your pooch’s need to search for their next meal. Every loving dog owner knows the benefits of spending quality time playing fetch, chase and having plenty of physical activity in their furry friend’s life. But what you probably don’t know is how much your dog also needs mental stimulation in their day-to-day lives. If your dog seems bored, stressed or generally not him/herself, you might try bringing them to the dog park more often or busting out the Frisbee. If that doesn’t work, or you want to work out your dog’s mental muscles, it may be high time to check out a brand new product like Rock ’N Bowl. The desire to hunt and search for food is naturally hardwired into your dog’s brain. While a select few of us have the means to let our furry companion hunt in the bushes and forests, some of us don’t have that luxury (especially those who live in the city). The Rock ’N Bowl, a new canine enrichment product by a new company called PAW5, makes mealtime fun for your animal by allowing them to forage for the rest of their kibbles. Related: The Loving Bowl Puts A New Slant On The Way Dogs Eat Like a normal bowl, you pour Fido’s food into the top (which, by the way, looks like a paw… how appropriate). While your dog eats away, the round bowl moves side to side, allowing some of the food to slide into a hidden compartment. Once the top portion of the bowl is empty, all it takes is some nudging, nosing and playing on your dog’s part and the rest of their food exits via small holes in the bowl’s bottom. If you’re worried about those bits being tossed out on the floor, fret not – that’s part of the game and your dog will definitely gobble those right up. The bowl can hold up to four cups of food, making it a perfect fit for the smallest of Chihuahuas to the biggest of Saint Bernards. Related: AutoDiet Feeder Puts An End To Your Pets’ All-You-Can-Eat Buffet PAW5’s Co-Founder, Dennis O’Donnell, explains that the purpose of the bowl is to create opportunities for your dog to use their problem solving abilities and be rewarded for their success. The new tipsy bowl is one way to mentally stimulate your dog’s mind while you go about your busy everyday routine. PAW5 also suggests having more than one treat dispenser or food puzzles and switching them up, as your pooch can get bored of the same one over and over again. Another (less expensive) way to get your dog searching and hunting for their food is to hide some food in clusters around the house or in the backyard and have them find it – the best kind of hide and seek is when there is food involved! This quizzical food bowl breaks down into three parts, all of which are dishwasher safe. For the environmentally friendly shopper, you’ll be happy to know that the USA-made Rock ’N Bowl is also made from BPA-and phthalate-free plastic. Rock ’N Bowl is available for pre-orders at the PAW5’s website for $29.95 and comes in blue and orange.

Husky Detects a Dangerous Gas Leak and Saves the Entire Neighborhood

Kobe, a four-year-old husky became an internet hero after saving his home and the entire neighborhood from a catastrophic gas leak. According to his owner, Chanell Bell, the canine started digging a large hole in the front yard of their Philadelphia home. At first, Bell didn’t think much of Kobe’s strange behavior. However, as the hole grew bigger, she became concerned that Kobe was trying to tell her something.“I trust his judgment because that isn’t his typical behavior and he is usually right,” said Bell, according to PEOPLE. “He has great senses and he never digs holes unless he is helping me dig; I knew something was up.”Earlier in the month, Bell had a gas leak in the house, and out of caution, she decided to check the hole Kobe dug with a gas detection device. “I had a reader already in the house to make sure there were no leaks coming from my old heater,” explained Bell. “When I saw the hole, I realized it was odd behavior for my dog. My intuition told me to check it.”Immediately the device detected gas. A potentially catastrophic amount of gas was coming from the hole Kobe dug in the yard!Bell alerted authorities right away and they informed her that the entire neighborhood should be grateful that Kobe detected the leak when he did. “We were told it could’ve caused serious health effects like respiratory issues, brain damage, and even death. They told me that something as simple as a light switch turning on could’ve caused an explosion, too.”As soon as they arrived at the address, the gas foreman and crew turned off the gas and started to work on the pipes. During the repairs, the crew discovered three other gas leaks in the neighborhood, all caused by old pipes. The crew worked for three days to repair the leaks and install new pipes. Workers told Bell that something as simple as turning on a light switch could have caused the gas to ignite and blow up the entire house. While they worked, the crew praised Kobe.“They were so impressed with Kobe and mentioned what a good dog he was,” said Bell, adding that people should always listen to their pets and their senses. The gas company said that it adds Marcaptan to the natural gas it administers to homes to produce a smell similar to rotten eggs to allow for easier leak detection. “Just like this customer, any time anyone smells a foreign odor or egg-like smell, they should immediately call,” said the utility company, in a statement. “It feels amazing to know Kobe saved our block, I am very thankful to have him,” added Bell. “I hope this spreads awareness to others about the dangers and severity of gas leaks and to pay attention to your fur babies!”  Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

The Unseen Threat: Dangers of Secondhand Smoke for Your Pet

Most people are well aware of the dangers of smoking. They understand what smoking does to their bodies and know the potential health risks of lighting up a cigarette. But did you know that exposure to secondhand smoke may have serious health consequences for your pets?It’s no secret that smoking is bad for people. In the United States, between 80% to 90% of lung cancer deaths are linked to cigarette smoking. Secondhand smoking is also linked with an increased risk of other forms of cancer, such as breast and colorectal cancer, heart and respiratory disease.Studies have shown that more than 50% of bladder cancer cases in humans are caused by cigarette smoking. A recent study involving Scottish terriers found a link between cigarette smoke exposure and bladder cancer. Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in dogs, and many pooches are diagnosed with some form of this terrible disease. Although many factors may predispose a pet to cancer, research shows that passive smoking is a main danger.Scientists from the College of Veterinary Medicine at Purdue University discovered that Scottish terriers who were exposed to secondhand smoke at home were six times more likely to develop bladder cancer than those who were not routinely exposed to smoke.Passive smoking is also linked with nasal cancer in dogs. This type of cancer is often diagnosed in long-nosed breeds such as collies, greyhounds, and borzois. The increased surface area in their nasal canals traps inhaled particles, allowing carcinogens from tobacco smoke to accumulate in the nasal mucus. As a result, long-nosed dogs are at a greater risk of developing tumors in their snouts. On the other hand, brachycephalic or short-nosed dog breeds, such as pugs and French bulldogs, are more likely to develop lung cancer. Their short noses aren’t as effective at trapping inhaled particles and allow more carcinogens to reach the lungs.Being exposed to smoke increases the risk that your dog will develop cancer, but that’s not all. Pooches that live with smokers are more likely to develop asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory problems.Dogs aren’t the only pets to suffer the consequences of inhaling secondhand smoke on a daily basis. Cats, birds, and small critters like guinea pigs and rabbits are also at risk.Cats that live with smokers are more likely to develop asthma and lung cancer. Felines that inhale secondhand smoke regularly also have a higher incidence of malignant lymphoma.  Studies have found higher nicotine concentrations in the hair of cats living with smokers than those living in smoke-free homes. The same is true for dogs living with smokers, no matter whether their owners smoked inside or outside. Cats are famous for being fastidious groomers, but licking the fur puts them at risk of ingesting even more toxic particles from secondhand smoke than simply inhaling them. Felines that groom excessively can develop oral tumors from licking toxic particles off their fur.Secondhand smoke alone isn't responsible for all health problems seen in cats and dogs. Diet, genetics, lifestyle, and exposure to other potentially toxic substances in the environment combined affect the pet’s overall health.Owners concerned with the well-being of their four-legged companions should be more aware of the air quality in their homes and make necessary lifestyle changes.Choosing to smoke outside can minimize some risks associated with exposure to secondhand smoke. Improving ventilation, opening the windows, and using air filters can help too. However, it’s important to note that even a low exposure to secondhand smoke can be harmful to your four-legged companion.Quitting smoking is hard, but knowing how secondhand smoke affects your pet’s health may motivate you to put down that cigarette once and for all!Join the PetGuiJoin the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

What Are the Benefits of Dog Massage?

Everyone likes a nice, relaxing massage – no doubt about it. It helps us unwind, soothes sore muscles, and can promote the release of “happy hormones” such as endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine. So why shouldn’t our four-legged friends enjoy the same perks as we do? That’s right, dogs can enjoy getting a massage as well, and can also provide a range of benefits for our four-legged besties, the same as it does for us.What Are the Benefits of Dog Massage?Canine massage can offer several benefits to dogs, both physically and emotionally. Just like us, our dogs can be tired, sore, grumpy, or sad. And a good massage can really help them shake it off and feel more at ease and relaxed. But people often wonder if there are any additional benefits for dogs who enjoy a massage – apart from it feeling nice, that is. And the answer is yes! Here are just some of the advantages they get from a massage:Stress and Tension Relief:A nice soothing massage can help relax tense muscles and reduce stress in dogs. This is especially beneficial for dogs that may be anxious or nervous.Better Circulation:Massage can enhance blood circulation, promoting better oxygen and nutrient delivery to cells and tissues. Improved circulation can aid in the healing process and contribute to overall well-being.Pain Relief:Massaging sore or tight muscles can help alleviate pain and discomfort. This is particularly relevant for dogs with arthritis, hip dysplasia, or other musculoskeletal issues.Better Flexibility and Range of Motion:Regular massage may enhance a dog's flexibility and improve their range of motion. If you have a senior dog or a dog recovering from injuries, a massage can be of great help with improving their overall mobility.Better Joint Health:Massage can contribute to the health of joints by promoting synovial fluid production, which lubricates and nourishes the joints. Senior dogs can benefit from regular massages either to treat existing joint issues or to prevent them in the first place.  Pet-Owner Bonding:Massage provides an opportunity for bonding between the dog and their owner and can improve and strengthen your relationship. It can also help with socialization, especially for dogs that may be timid or have trust issues as it will help them relax when petted.A Stronger Immune System:Some experts suggest that massage may stimulate the lymphatic system, potentially boosting the immune system's function in dogs. While there aren’t any extensive studies done that could confirm this, it would be great if a “side effect” of canine massage is better overall health!Spotting Health Issues:Through massage, you may identify lumps, bumps, or other abnormalities that may require veterinary attention. Regular massage can help in the early detection of potential health issues on time to provide the right treatment.Postoperative Recovery:Dogs recovering from surgery may benefit from gentle massage to reduce swelling, alleviate pain, and aid in the healing process. Just don’t apply too much pressure or any pressure on the incision site – and be sure to get your vet’s approval (and possible instructions) before doing anything on your own,It's important to note that while a dog massage can be beneficial, it should not be used as a substitute for veterinary care or, in some cases, without the go-ahead from your pet’s vet. Before starting any massage regimen, it's advisable to consult with a veterinarian or a professional canine massage therapist, especially if your dog has pre-existing health conditions. Additionally, learning proper massage techniques is crucial to ensure that you are providing a safe and effective experience for your dog.

Is Your Cat Itchy? Causes and Treatments for Itching in Cats

Itching, or pruritis, in cats has various causes, so it’s a symptom of multiple problems. Sure, a cat will have an itch they need to scratch every now and then, just like people do. But if you see your cat scratching more than usual, or they’re scratching, licking, or biting themselves so much that they’re losing fur and causing cuts and scabs on their skin, there may be an underlying issue that should be addressed.Whether your cat is scratching at one area or they’re itchy all over, don’t ignore this problem. Read on to learn about some of the causes of itchiness in cats, along with some of the things you can do to provide relief. Remember, it’s always best to consult a veterinarian about your cat’s symptoms so you can give your pet the right treatment.Reasons Why Your Cat Is ItchyHere are some of the conditions that can cause a cat to feel itchy:AllergiesA lot of things can cause an allergic reaction in cats that leads to itchy skin. For example, if your cat is allergic to an ingredient in their food, such as a particular protein, their allergy might manifest as itchiness. As another example, your cat might be allergic to something in the environment, such as dust in the house or pollen that blows in through a window. And some cats have contact allergies to products, from litter to plastic or fabric, that can cause a reaction. The goal is to find the allergen and remove it from your cat’s environment as best as possible. In the case of a food allergy, using food trials with the guidance of your vet can help you figure out what’s causing the reaction so you can start giving your cat food that’s appropriate for them. ParasitesBites from insects and parasites can cause your cat to feel itchy. Fleas and mites are a couple examples. And, yes, indoor cats can get fleas, as they could be brought in from outside and find their way to your feline.When it comes to mites, such as ear mites or mange, your veterinarian can prescribe treatments after performing some tests for an accurate diagnosis.For flea allergy dermatitis caused by flea bites, it’s a matter of eliminating the flea infestation and preventing future infestations. You can use over-the-counter products, such as Frontline Plus for Cats, which is a topical treatment you apply between your cat’s shoulders (where they won’t be able to lick it off). It kills flea eggs, flea larvae, and adult fleas, as well as ticks and chewing lice, and each dose works for a month. But you also need to thoroughly clean your home and your pet’s things to be sure you eliminate fleas in the environment.

Lost Service Dog Survived 2 Months Alone in the Colorado Mountains

It’s every dog parent’s nightmare. 14-month-old service dog in training Nova Riley slipped out of her harness and bolted out of a Safeway parking lot in a panic. After several sightings by the community as they searched tirelessly alongside owner Robynne Simons-Sealy, Nova continued to run in fear from anyone who attempted to catch her. After two long months of worrying and searching, Simons-Sealy was reunited with her beloved Bernese Mountain Dog. Nova was discovered injured in the woods of Meyers Ranch Park by two hikers on November 19th. The hikers recognized that she was injured, frightened, and needed help. They tried to carry her out to safely, but due to her high anxiety (understandable, given the situation), she bit one of her rescuers. Refusing to leave the poor dog behind, they decided to bring in help. One hiker stayed with Nova to keep her calm and assure her they weren’t giving up on her. The other hiker descended the trail to ask the park rangers for help and guide them, along with Animal Control Officer Kylie Rupe, three miles back to her position. “When we first got up there, I had brought treats and food up with me, knowing she would probably be very food-motivated at that point,” explained Rupe. “I used food to make friends, and she was very friendly but skittish.” With the help of both the rangers and animal control, Nova was carried to safety on a tarp. One of the rangers had recognized Nova from a lost dog poster, allowing her to be reunited with her worried and ever-grateful owner.

UK Insurance Giant Names Pets as Culprit in Over 6,000 Claims

Between 2019 and 2023, dogs and cats identified as cause for missing jewelry, broken electronics, and property damage.

The US National Park Service is Being Sued Over Stray Cats

The US National Park Service was sued by a non-profit organization due to its controversial plan to remove the famous stray cats of Puerto Rico, a historic district in the US territory. The lawsuit was filed by  Alley Cat Allies, a non-profit based in Maryland, and it comes four months after the radical announcement that left many in shock. The Federal agency revealed that it would contract an animal welfare organization to remove around 200 stray cats that live in Puerto Rico’s historic seaside fortress in Old San Juan. What the organization still hasn’t decided upon is whether the captured stray cats would be placed in foster homes, kept in shelters, adopted, or face a different fate. What is more, the federal agency did not reveal if a third-party organization has been hired yet. The National Park Service also added that it would hire a “removal agency” if the organization it contracted ultimately failed to remove the cats within a six-month period. The news caught many by surprise, as many locals – and tourists alike – loved the cats, and many considered them a delight and a local attraction. Alas, many considered the cats a nuisance too, as the National Park Service stated in a report in 2022 that the cat population in the city had grown out of proportions and that the smell of feces and urine in the area was becoming too strong.The announcement of their plan roused many animal rights activists, who say that six months is not enough to remove such a great number of cats. They fear that, as a result, many cats would be killed. Ultimately, the Alley Cat Allies filed its lawsuit in an effort to ensure the best possible outcome for the felines in question. They requested additional environmental statements from the National Park Service, and asked that “a judge find its actions allegedly violate acts including the National Environmental Protection Act.” It remains to be seen what will be the fate of these kitties – but one can only hope they won’t be harmed in the process. 

A Xmas Miracle: Shelter Empty for the First Time in Nearly 50 Years

It was a very merry Christmas for a Pennsylvania shelter whose kennels were empty for the first time in nearly 50 years. Just two weeks ago, the shelter was packed with cats and dogs. However, the staff and volunteers have been working around the clock to make sure the animals in their care got adopted into loving homes. The Adams County SPCA is overjoyed that the shelter is empty, especially during the holidays.“This is the first time in 47 years that the Adams County SPCA is empty let alone on Christmas time, it is a true miracle!” the shelter wrote on Facebook. “To say that we are beyond excited is an understatement! The staff and volunteers have worked very hard to take care of the animals in our care and to make sure they got adopted into the right home.”The organization had a busy year, taking care of 598 animals before adopting them into furever homes. The hardworking staff and volunteers also reunited 125 stay animals with their owners this year alone.Adams County SPCA kennel technician Tanya Hays said that in the last two weeks, the shelter found homes for 20 animals, either as adoptions or strays returned to their owners.“We had to get them all spayed and neutered, vaccinated, and tested for heartworms and thick-born illnesses while also processing a lot of (adoption) applications, so the staff worked really hard,” said Hays to TODAY.“It was pretty cool. It was quite a feat,” she added.The organization took to Facebook to thank their community. “Our community stepped up once again! We thank everyone for their continued support and look forward to new adventures in 2024!”Although it may seem like people are more motivated to adopt animals during the holidays, the shelter actually discourages people from giving pets as gifts because these animals are more likely to be returned to the shelter weeks later. While the staff and volunteers celebrated everything they achieved this year, they are already ready to get back to work. “We will be pulling animals from other shelters in Pennsylvania next week in hopes of relieving some of their stress,” the shelter shared. “Right now we are going to enjoy this accomplishment!”In a follow-up post, the organization shared that it has “received an overwhelming response” from different shelters across the country and also from Canada and Mexico. Members of the public have also reached out asking them to take in abandoned animals. “Even though our hearts break for them and the situation they are in we need to help the members of our community first,” the organization said. The Adams County SPCA is only taking animals from overwhelmed shelters in Pennsylvania and animals surrendered by residents within the county as well as those living in surrounding counties. “We are going to do the best we can to help as many animals and people we can.” Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Holiday Gifts for Your Cats: Tips and Recommendations

Your cat is a member of your family, so why not include them in the gift giving tradition of the holidays by getting them something special? With a wide range of pet products on the market, you can find an item that your kitty is sure to love, and you can make sweet memories in the process. Whether you have a stocking for your furbaby or you plan on wrapping a little gift for them, here are some holiday gift ideas for cats to help you get started.

What Size of Cage Does My Hamster Need?

Final Thoughts: The Best Hamster Cage SetupWhen setting up your hamster’s habitat, consider the floor space available. They are active and energetic creatures that need to be able to run, demanding more freedom to move than is often available in the overly hyped commercial cages. Instead, ensure the cage offers at least 24” by 12” of floor space on the main floor. Several cage styles are available, including wire cages, glass aquariums, and plastic pens. If you want to extend their habitat with a second floor, be cautious about the risk of injury. A long fall can be catastrophic. Include all necessities on the main floor of your hamster’s cage. This includes plenty of bedding to burrow into, clean hay, chew toys/enrichment opportunities, an appropriately sized exercise wheel, and access to fresh food and water. A proper habitat is the foundation for a happy, healthy life for your furry friend! Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Study Finds That Pet Owners Experience Slower Cognitive Decline

Studies have shown that owning a pet can promote physical health in older people, but there isn’t enough research on the impact of dogs, cats, and other pets on cognitive function. As people age, their cognitive functions and memory decline. Although all people experience some level of cognitive decline as they age, some individuals can maintain good cognitive function well into advanced age. In contrast, others experience a sharp cognitive decline early on. Researchers have suggested various strategies to slow cognitive decline, from treating sleep apnea to improving diet and increasing exercise. In a new study, a team of researchers has set to discover whether pets, mainly cats and dogs, may help slow down cognitive decline in seniors.Scientists from the University of Maryland wanted to examine the link between pet ownership and changes in cognitive function of community-dwelling seniors. The goal of this study was to determine whether pet owners experience slower cognitive decline. They also wanted to see if there’s any difference if the pet is a dog or a cat, and whether dog walking might reduce the rate of cognitive decline. The team analyzed data from the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging, the longest-running study of aging in the U.S. Using the data from this study, enabled the research team to analyze the cognitive tests of 637 participants ages between 51 and 101.Of the participants, nearly one-third owned pets, with 11% owning cats and 13% owning dogs. Among dog owners, 69% reported walking their dogs regularly. Results revealed that during 10 years, all participants experienced a decline in cognitive functions as they aged. However, decline was slower in pet owners, compared to non-pet owners. Interestingly, the slower decline was more evident in some but not all tests used to determine cognitive function. Additionally, the results also showed some variations between cat and dog owners. For example, researchers noted that dog owners who walked their dogs regularly experienced even slower cognitive decline than cat owners and dog owners who didn’t walk their pets.This finding showcases just how beneficial walking your pooch can be for your overall health. Owning a dog can increase physical activity, as they need to be taken out for regular walks and daily exercise, which is known to be beneficial for health. “Older adult pet owners experienced less decline in cognitive function as they aged, after considering both their pre-existing health and age,” the study authors said.“Memory, executive function, language function, psychomotor speed, and processing speed deteriorated less over 10 years among pet owners than among non-owners and among dog owners than non-owners.”“Cat owners experienced less deterioration in memory and language function. Dog walking was also associated with slower deterioration in cognitive functioning.”Numerous other studies have shown that pets can provide social support and that interacting with a cat or dog can lower heart rate and blood pressure.This study is important for the scientific understanding of factors linked with cognitive decline. However, this study isn’t without limitations. Firstly, the study doesn’t allow any cause-and-effect conclusions to be made. Secondly, the study sample consisted of people with higher socioeconomic status and above-average cognitive abilities for their age. “Policymakers could use these findings to support the inclusion of pets in care plans, designing housing and neighborhoods for seniors that are friendly for dog walking and developing programs to support pet ownership and care for older adults’ pets while they are temporarily unable to do so,” concluded the authors of the study. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

This Special Camera Reveals How Our Pets See the World Around Them

Have you ever wondered how your pet  sees the world around them? We all know that the eyes of dogs, cats, and all other animals are not the same as ours, and they often see the world in a very different way. While all we could do is imagine and theorize up until now, thanks to a new breakthrough in technology we will be able to take a peek through the eyes of animals!Scientists have  invented a special camera that uses a unique combination of state-of-the-art hardware and software, in order to create videos and images that show us exactly how certain animals see. For example, with this latest tech, you will be able to see the vivid world of colors that are seen through the eyes of birds and bees. One of the recent demonstrations revealed how a UV-sensitive vision of a bird renders an orange sulfur butterfly - the result is more than striking, as it doesn’t look like anything related to human vision.

Ready for the Solar Eclipse? What You Need to Know

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Are Bengal Cats Really That Wild? Here's What Science Has to Say.

Bengal cats are a truly stunning feline breed, in many ways. According to the International Cat Association (TICA), they hold the title of being the most popular cat breed globally, and it doesn’t really come as a surprise. Their unique and exotic appearance, their unavoidable charm, and their slender physique are certainly the reason for this prestigious title. But even though they are popular, Bengal cats are a relatively new breed in the field of domesticated cats. While most ordinary domestic cat breeds have been around for thousands of years, Bengal cats have been around for less than a century, which comes as a stark contrast. They are a hybrid breed as well, having been created in the 1960s. They came about from the crossing of the domestic cat (Felis Catus), and the Asian Leopard cats (Prionailurus Bengalensis), which are a small, spotted, wild cat species living in Asia. What makes the combination unique is the fact that these two cat species had a common ancestor about 6 million years ago, which means that the genetic differences between them are incredible. The differences are even greater than between humans and chimpanzees!The resulting breed is the Bengal cat, and it is adored for its exotic appearance. It has special spots, just like ocelots or leopards. But most folks ascribe the unique coloration and patterns of these felines to the DNA they received from their wild and distantly related ancestors. And that’s why scientific folks paid special attention to the ancestry of Bengal cats. Greg Barsh, MD, Ph.D., Faculty Investigator at HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology and Professor of Genetics at Stanford University,  himself an expert in the genetics of feline coat coloration and patterning is a key figure in the research process of Bengal ancestry. Together with his team, which is led by Chris Kaelin, Ph.D., and Kelly McGowan, MD, Ph.D., Mr. Barsh is working hard towards unraveling Bengal ancestry through the genetics of popular color traits."Cats are wonderful companions," he explains for  Phys.org, "but our interests go beyond their beautiful and exotic appearance. Like the amazing variation among different dog breeds, artificial selection can be a very powerful engine to create morphologic diversity. What's different about Bengal cats from dogs is the raw genetic material–dogs trace their heritage to wolves from tens of thousands of years ago.""In contrast, Bengal cats trace their heritage to completely different species from millions of years ago. Understanding how these distantly related genomes interact is a general question that applies to any situation when different species exchange genes, from crops to aquaculture to humans and Neandertals."And even though this is a relatively new breed, started about 60 years ago by a few cat enthusiasts, it has grown incredibly during this time. Today, there are hundreds of thousands of registered Bengal cats, which are produced by about 2,000 breeders. Chris Kaelin, the leader of the Bengal cat DNA study, said “Cat fanciers and breeders are very interested in the research, in part because they want to know more about the science behind artificial selection, and in part, because they want to know if our results can help them produce cats with rosettes, stripes, or other exotic markings.” He also added "This is a great example of citizen science–our work has been enabled by the willingness of breeders to participate, and we share our results with the community."One of the surprising discoveries that was produced from the study is that Asian Leopard DNA contributes no more than a few percent to the overall Bengal Cat DNA. In fact, it is revealed that there isn’t one or even a few Asian leopard genes that are causing the unique spotted Bengal appearance. "One of the original motivations for bringing together DNA from the two species was to select for Asian leopard DNA that would recapitulate the appearance of an exotic wild cat in a companion animal," said Kaelin. "It turns out that some of the most striking examples of selection in the breed are for traits that were already present, but very rare, in domestic cats."So, the study reveals that the Bengals are in many ways totally unique. Mixing the two very unique breeds resulted in a cat that is exotic, elegant, charming, and above all loveable. And now, the results published are providing valuable information to all the enthusiasts in love with the Bengal breed. 

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