Pet parenthood can come with all sorts of questions, but you probably didn’t expect one of them to be “What if I’m allergic to my pet?” The good news is that sneezes, sniffles, and itchy eyes don’t have to come between you and your furry bestie. With a few tips—and trips to the pharmacy—pet parents can often keep their symptoms in check.
There’s nothing like a camping trip to soak up the joys of nature. But why should dogs and humans have all the fun? These days, cats are joining the adventure, too, says Diane McNamara, legacy board member of the Gifford Cat Shelter, co-founder of Girl Camper Media, and proud cat mom to an adventure cat named Holly. “It’s absolutely possible to camp with a cat,” McNamara says. “It just takes preparation and a commitment to creating a healthy, safe space where your cat can feel secure.”
Cats love a good nap, but there’s a difference between a tired cat and a lethargic cat. If your cat seems unusually inactive or withdrawn, you should contact your veterinarian promptly. If your cat is weak, unresponsive, or has labored breathing, that signals a medical emergency that requires immediate care at an emergency clinic. To help you recognize the signs of lethargy in cats and respond quickly, we spoke with veterinarians about common causes and the steps to take if your cat is acting lethargic.
Curious about what hamsters can eat and whether cheese is a safe treat? According to avian and exotic veterinarian Dr. Susan Tyson, VMD, MS, hamsters are omnivores, meaning their diet should include a healthy mix of veggies, fruits, and even insects. So, the big question is—can hamsters eat cheese? Whether you’re considering offering a nibble as a treat or have a little one eager to share a snack from their plate, here’s what you need to know.
Aggression in dogs isn’t always loud or obvious. It can start with subtle body language and grow into behaviors such as: Crouching Tucking the tail Turning the head away to avoid eye contact Sudden stillness As tension grows, your dog might start growling, baring their teeth, curling their lips, or giving you a stiff, hard stare. “Aggression is not necessarily abnormal,” says Meghan Herron, DVM, DACVB, a veterinary behaviorist and senior director of behavior, research, education, and outreach at Gigi’s, an Ohio-based dog shelter. That’s because aggression is a normal form of communication dogs use when they feel uncomfortable, afraid, or threatened, which is all the more reason to tune in and take it seriously. “But a senior dog who suddenly displays aggression in a situation where they never have before is a big cause for concern,” she says. “Brushing their behavior off as ‘grumpiness’ risks missing something serious,” adds Dion Studinski, head trainer and founder of Ancillary K9 Dog Training in Denver, Colorado. Below, we’ll share the most common reasons for sudden aggression in senior dogs. These causes aren’t always either/or, as they can often occur simultaneously. ,Watching your dog grow older can be a bittersweet experience. Because those gray whiskers often come with new care needs, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recommends that senior dogs visit the vet at least twice a year. And while every dog ages differently, if your senior dog suddenly starts showing signs of aggression, it’s essential to recognize that this isn’t just “grumpiness” or a regular part of aging. Sudden aggression in senior dogs often points to an underlying issue. Here’s how to spot aggression in older dogs, why partnering with your vet is so important, and how simple changes at home can help your dog feel more like themselves while keeping everyone safe.
From Sirius to Licorice, black cats inspire names as bold as their sleek coats. But before you get swept up in picking the perfect black cat name, you should know that black cat breeds are wonderfully unique. Black cats are often overlooked at shelters due to their fur color, so adopting one can be extra rewarding. From size, personality, and the daily care they require, there’s a black cat for every cat-lover.
Weight: 5–10 pounds Lifespan: 12–16 years Personality: Playful, attention-seeker, lap cat This little cutie has fluffy ears that curl backward toward their head—hence the name American Curl. Weighing just 5–10 pounds, they’re the perfect pint-sized cuddle buddy. Known for being people-oriented and sweet, American Curls keep their playful, kitten-like energy well into adulthood. If you’re not up to speed on how to properly pet a cat, now’s the time to learn. These little cats love attention, and they’re not shy about asking for it! Though their curled ears aren’t tied to genetic health issues, American Curls can be prone to ear infections. It’s a good idea to regularly check their ears for signs of irritation. You may want to keep an over-the-counter ear cleaner, such as Virbac Epi-Optic, on hand for use as needed. Just be sure to talk to your vet before cleaning your cat’s ears!,Believe it or not, cats aren’t one-size-fits-all. While their size differences might not be as dramatic as dog breeds, there’s still a big difference between small and large cat breeds. And when it comes to small cat breeds, there’s a whole world of variety. For example, there are miniature cats with short hair, long hair, or even no hair at all. Their temperaments are just as different as their looks; some have chatty personalities, while others are quiet and calm. It’s worth exploring them all to find which might fit your lifestyle best. Here are the best small cats.
Ferrets are playful, curious companions with big personalities. Some even have a charming habit of hoarding toys, socks, and other little treasures, says Melissa Braukman, director of the Oregon-based Willamette Valley Ferret Shelter. But before bringing a ferret home, it’s important to consider the long-term costs. If you’re wondering how much ferrets cost, you’re in the right place. Budgeting for your pet ferret is a key part of responsible ferret parenting, and we’re here to break it all down for you.
When your senior cat suddenly starts biting, it can feel equal parts painful and puzzling. This is your longtime buddy, after all, and while the sudden shift in behavior may be frustrating, it isn’t generally a case of “grumpy old cat.” Biting in senior cats often points to an underlying issue that deserves attention. By working with your veterinarian, you can better understand what your cat is really trying to communicate and help them feel more comfortable so you both can get back to enjoying their golden years filled with sunny windowsills, long naps, and kitty kisses—instead of painful bites.
When choosing a small animal companion, you’ll find a wider selection of pet hamster species than gerbils.,Jump to section Pet Gerbil and Hamster Origins Gerbil Size vs. Hamster Size Gerbil vs. Hamster Appearance Gerbil Behavior vs. Hamster Behavior Gerbil Lifespan vs. Hamster Lifespan Gerbil Cage vs. Hamster Cages
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