Cat Pregnancy: Signs, Stages, and Care
In This Article How Long Are Cats Pregnant? View 8 More +
How to Keep Your Car from Looking (and Smelling) Like a Kennel
Two skunked St. Bernards in a Honda civic. A white German Shepherd in a brand new Escalade with dark interior. A dog walker’s van that spends every day packed with dogs fresh from the (muddy) Colorado trails. In a decade of running Smudge Car & Dog Wash in Colorado Springs, Colo., Robert Wulfe has seen—and cleaned—it all. Like Wulfe, any pet parent can attest that life with a dog can easily turn your car into a host for unpleasant odors, mud and furballs. But with a bit of preparation, maintenance and know-how, you can keep your car from looking and smelling like a kennel no matter how often your dirty dog rides in it with these road-tested, expert-approved tips.
When Is Flea Season?
Flea season can differ from one state to another due to the diverse climates across the United States. However, it’s best to keep your pet on a year-round flea preventative, as recommended by your veterinarian. This is because fleas can survive a harsh winter by hiding in areas protected from the cold, such as your home, barn, garage or crawl space. Still, it’s helpful to know when fleas are most prevalent in your area. Find out when flea season is in your state, according to Dr. Sara Ochoa, DVM, a veterinarian at Animal Hospital of West Monroe in West Monroe, Louisiana, and the co-founder of How to Pets; and Dr. Jamie Whittenburg, DVM, owner and director of Kingsgate Animal Hospital in Lubbock, Texas.,Jump to section When Is Flea Season in Your State? My Pet Has Fleas—What Do I Do? How To Protect Your Dog Against Fleas How To Protect Your Cat Against Fleas
Chicken and Rice for Dogs Is the Ultimate Canine Comfort Food
Boiled chicken and rice is the canine equivalent to the age-old, human remedy of chicken soup. This homemade dog food can serve as an excellent short-term alternative to their typical diet when your furry friend is feeling under the weather. It’s bland enough for most dogs with upset stomachs or temporary digestive issues, yet still enticing to picky eaters. A sick dog is a sad dog, and that’s the last thing pet parents want. You can make this simple chicken and rice for dogs recipe when your sidekick is experiencing diarrhea or tummy troubles and hopefully set them on their way to happier times. As with any human food, pet parents looking to incorporate new foods in their dog’s diet should consult with their veterinarian beforehand.
Can Guinea Pigs Eat Blueberries?
Yes, guinea pigs can eat blueberries—as long as they’re fresh and thoroughly washed, and fed in moderation. Avoid canned, frozen, dried, or sugared varieties; these often contain added sugars or preservatives that can upset your guinea pig’s digestive system. ,While snacking on a handful of blueberries, you look over to find your furry potato standing up on their two back feet with their little paws pressed up against their habitat, looking adorably hungry. Can guinea pigs eat blueberries too? Yes, they can! Blueberries can be a nutritious treat for guinea pigs when fed in small amounts. Because guinea pigs have sensitive digestive systems, new foods should be introduced gradually. Before introducing any new food into your guinea pig’s diet, always check with your veterinarian.
The Ultimate Guide to Cat Cuddles
Soft? Check. Fluffy? Check. Adorable? Check and check. With cozy-up qualifications like this, it’s no wonder we love snuggling our feline friends. If you’re tempted to stop scrolling immediately and go find your cat, we understand. But before you do, consider reading on for a master class in Kitty Snuggles. From risks to rewards, breeds to body language, we asked the experts everything you need to know about cat cuddles.
How Cold Is Too Cold for Your Dog?
In This Article How Cold Is Too Cold for Dogs To Be Outside? View 3 More +
Snoring and Nasal Obstruction in Rabbits
Stertor and Stridor Did you know rabbits snore? Even occurring while they are awake, it is generally a result of blockage in the animal’s airway. Typically referred to as stertor and stridor, it can also occur if nasal tissues are weak or flaccid or from excessive fluid in the passages. Symptoms The symptoms, signs and types of stertor and stridor depend on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. For example, an extremely stressed rabbit or a rabbit with a lowered immune system may sound excessively hoarse while breathing. Other typical signs for rabbits suffering from stertor and stridor include: Sneezing Rapid or loud wheezing sounds during breathing Nasal discharge (sometimes due to sinusitis or rhinitis) Discharge from the eyes Lack of appetite Inability to chew or swallow Oral abscesses (especially in the teeth) Causes Rabbits tend to be nasal breathers and any physical deformity or unusual nasal structure can result in a lower-pitched (stertor) or higher-pitched (stridor) sound emanating from the airway or nose. There are, however, many other causes for stertor and stridor in rabbits. These include: Sinusitis and rhinitis Abscesses, elongated teeth or secondary bacterial infections Facial, nasal or other trauma affecting this region, including bites from other insects or animals Allergies and irritants including inhaling pollen, dust or other insects Tumors that lodge in the airway Dysfunction of the neuromuscular system, which may include hypothyroidism or diseases affecting the brainstem Swelling and edema in the upper respiratory system Inflammation of the soft palate or throat and voice box Anxiety or stress Diagnosis To diagnose the animal, a veterinarian will first determine where the sounds are originating from in the rabbit. They will then conduct various lab tests, including X-rays, which are used to explore the rabbit’s nasal cavity and identify any facial abnormalities or signs of abscesses and bacterial infections, such as Pasteurella. Other procedures may include collecting cultures. Treatment Treatment includes providing supplemental oxygen to the rabbit, when appropriate, and providing a quite, cool and calm environment in which to live. A rabbit must also have a clear and unobstructed airway, keeping its ear and nasal cavities clean and debris-free. To combat harmful bacterial infections from developing, the veterinarian may alter the rabbit’s diet to include more leafy greens. Medications which are helpful to control bacterial sinusitis, rhinitis or other related infection include antibiotics. And while steroids may be used to reduce nasal swelling or inflammation, it can worsen bacterial infections and should only be used when absolutely necessary and under the direct care of a trained veterinarian. Living and Management Because stertor and stridor are often related to airway obstructions, there are many serious complications which may arise. Pulmonary edema, or fluid retention in the lungs or airway, is one such common example. It is, therefore, important to closely monitor the rabbit and bring it to the veterinarian’s office for regular checkups and follow-up care during recovery.
Why Do Dogs Hump and How to Stop Dog Humping
Dog humping is a completely normal behavior that both male and female dogs exhibit. According to our experts, reasons why dogs hump include: Sexual behavior: Sometimes this dog behavior is triggered by a surge of hormones. This type of sexually-related humping is typically seen in unsterilized dogs (aka dogs who aren’t spayed or neutered). Self-soothing: Humping can be a self-soothing behavior for dogs who are frustrated, tired, anxious or afraid. Overstimulation: It can also be a response to feeling overstimulated, which occurs in situations when dogs get really excited, like when they’re playing at a dog park or if company arrives at the house. Attention-seeking: This response is more often seen in bored or high-energy pets who want to get your attention. Medical conditions: Excessive humping may be caused by a medical issue, especially urinary tract infections; prolonged or painful erections (priapism); and incontinence. “When dogs are humping, you have to consider the context, the individual dog and their environment,” says Dee Hoult, CDBS, CPDT, a certified dog trainer at Applause Your Paws in Miami, Florida.,Jump to section Why Do Dogs Hump? Why Do Dogs Hump People, Objects and the Air? Why Do Female Dogs Hump? Is Dog Mounting a Sign of Dominance? Should You Stop Your Dog From Humping? How to Stop a Dog from Humping When to Hire a Dog Behaviorist or Trainer
What’s the Best Fresh Food for French Bulldogs?
French Bulldogs are beloved for their compact size, affectionate personality, and signature smushed snout. But beneath their adorable appearance, Frenchies have unique health needs—including trouble breathing, joint problems, and a tendency toward allergies. This is where proper nutrition becomes important. Feeding your French Bulldog a high-quality diet can help support their overall health, and fresh food could be a go-to option for your pup.
