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Train Your Cat: Simple Tricks to Teach Your Feline Friend

Training a cat takes some time and effort. Here are some simple and useful commands and tricks.   Teaching the "Sit" Command Want to teach your cat to sit? Start by placing your cat on a table or another raised surface. Hold a treat above its head, say its name, and then say "sit." As your cat follows the treat with its eyes, its rear will naturally lower into a sitting position. As soon as it sits, click a clicker and say "sit," then give it the treat. If it doesn't sit on its own, gently press down on its rear while holding the treat above its head, repeating "sit." When it finally sits, click and reward it. Soon, your cat will associate the command "sit" with getting a treat, and you won't need the clicker anymore. A simple "sit" will be enough to get your cat to do just that.   Teaching the "Come" Command Getting your cat into a carrier for a vet visit can be a struggle. Teaching it to come when called ca
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Is Your Dog at Risk for Canine Distemper? Here's What You Need to Know

 Is Your Dog at Risk for Canine Distemper? Here's What You Need to Know.   Understanding Canine Distemper Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) is highly contagious and affects dogs and other species like foxes, wolves, ferrets, skunks, and raccoons. It mainly spreads through droplets from infected animals' body fluids. Although the virus can be severe, it's not a threat to humans or cats. Puppies aged 3-6 months are most susceptible to canine distemper. This risk increases as the maternal antibodies, which puppies receive from their mothers, begin to fade between 9-12 weeks. The disease has various stages with differing symptoms, ranging from respiratory and gastrointestinal issues to neurological symptoms. Though not as common as it once was, canine distemper can still be severe. The outcome depends on the treatment's timing and effectiveness. Some dogs recover quickly, while others might have long-term effects or even succumb to the disease if not treated promptly.   Differen

Is Your Cat Struggling to Breathe? Here's What You Need to Know About Chylothorax

Is Your Cat Struggling to Breathe? Here's What You Need to Know About Chylothorax. What's Chylothorax? Chylothorax is a condition where lymph fluid, called chyle, accumulates in the chest cavity, causing breathing difficulties. Lymph is the fluid that flows through tissues, carrying proteins and cells into the bloodstream through small vessels known as lymphatic vessels. When lymph comes from the intestines, it's rich in fat and is called chyle. Chylothorax happens when chyle builds up in the chest cavity, making it hard for the lungs to expand and take in oxygen. While this condition can happen to any breed of cat, some breeds seem to have a higher occurrence rate, like Siamese and Himalayan cats. Chylothorax is more common in middle-aged and older cats, but it can also occur in very young cats.   What Causes Chylothorax in Cats?   In many cases, the cause of chylothorax in animals is idiopathic, meaning it's unknown. However, some animals are diagnosed with tumors, he

Does Pet Insurance Cover Pre-Existing Conditions? Here's What You Need to Know!

When you're buying pet insurance, it's crucial to understand what is and isn't covered. So, let's talk about pre-existing conditions and how they impact pet insurance. What Are Pre-Existing Conditions?   Most pet insurance companies define "pre-existing conditions" as any illness or injury that first appeared or was diagnosed before you purchased pet insurance or during the waiting period. This could be anything from a chronic limp that a dog has had since birth to a cough that showed up just days before you bought your policy.   How Do Pet Insurance Companies Handle Pre-Existing Conditions?   We looked into some common pet insurance companies to see how they define and handle pre-existing conditions. Here's a quick summary. "Like all pet insurance companies, we can't cover illnesses that first appeared or showed symptoms before the policy's start date or during the waiting period." "No pet insurance company covers pre-existing condi

Have you ever done something really bad to your pet?

"Have you ever done something really bad to your pet?" I have. And not just once! Let me share some of the hilarious things my friends and I have done to our pets, along with some funny stories and photos. My little bird loves sunflower seeds, so I crack one open, and then take it from her to eat myself.   I secretly took a photo of my cat trying to weigh herself on the scale and posted it online. Right after my dog had puppies, my grandpa bought a whole crate of milk and a box of dog sausages for her. I got caught stealing some sausages for myself.   When I was a kid, I had a tabby cat who was great at catching fish. But every fish she caught, I would cook for myself, leaving her just the bones. One morning, I skipped breakfast. While cooking chicken breast for my cat, it smelled so good that I added some olive oil and spices, then ate it all myself. I tried using dish soap to give my dog a bath. Uh, let's just say it didn’t rinse off very well.   While writing a depress

12 Things You Might Not Know About Dog Deaths

Here are some things about dog death that many dog lovers may not know. 1. Die with Eyes Open   Dogs usually die with their eyes open because closing them requires active muscle control. (Humans do the same thing.   2. Hiding When Sick   Dogs often hide when they're sick. It's a defense mechanism to avoid attracting predators when they're feeling vulnerable. They might be sick for days or even weeks before you notice something's off.   3. Not Always Peaceful   Many dog owners believe that when their pet "passes away," it's a peaceful process. But that's not always true. Many dogs experience hours or even days of physical pain and discomfort before they die.   4. Senses During Death   When humans die, they first lose their sight, and hearing is the last to go. It's the same for dogs. 5. Post-Death Movement   Dogs can continue to have breathing motions and muscle twitches even after their heart stops beating. 6. Oldest Dog   The oldest dog ever rec

How to Choose the Right Dewormer for Your Dog and Keep Them Safe from Parasites?

So many people ask questions like:  "Why does my dog always scoot their butt? Should I take them to the vet?" "I put dewormer drops on my dog's fur, but it gets absorbed and I'm worried they'll lick it. What should I do?"  "I gave my dog dewormer, but why are there still parasites in their stool?" Dogs aren't like people—they don't care about hygiene. They can easily pick up parasites from the environment when they're out for a walk, playing with other dogs, or even snacking on random things they find. If you notice your dog doing unusual stuff, like scratching or licking their skin constantly, losing weight, biting at their own body, losing their appetite, or having diarrhea, it could be a sign of a parasite problem. If you actually see parasites in their poop, then it's definitely time to do something about it.   Main Types of Parasites There are two main types of parasites: those that live on the outside of your dog (like fle

Capturing Furry Moments: The Boom in Pet Photography

If you open the photo album on any official's phone, chances are you'll see that most of the photos are of their pets. "Even though the photos might look similar, there's a slight difference in how they tilt their heads," says one official. "My phone is running out of memory because there are thousands of pet photos. I’d rather delete my selfies than those cute moments with my pets."   Many pet owners are into pet photography to capture the growth of their pets, while social media platforms make sharing these adorable moments easy. However, most pet owners don't have the high-end gear or the skills, so they often turn to professional pet photography studios.   Right now, pet photography trends include everything from simple ID photos to festive-themed shoots, seahorse-style photos, travel pics, and more. Prices can vary from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, with some top-tier services reaching tens of thousands of dollars.   Terry, for exampl

How often should I take my pet to the vet for check-ups?

Understanding Pet Care: Frequency of Veterinary Check-ups for Different Animals Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for maintaining the health and well-being of our beloved pets. However, the frequency of these check-ups can vary depending on factors such as the species, age, and overall health of the animal. In this article, we'll explore the recommended frequency of veterinary check-ups for different types of pets, empowering pet owners to provide optimal care for their furry companions. Dogs Dogs typically require annual veterinary check-ups, although the frequency may vary based on factors such as age, breed, and existing health conditions. Puppies and senior dogs may benefit from more frequent check-ups, with puppies needing several visits in their first year for vaccinations, deworming, and wellness exams. Senior dogs may require semi-annual check-ups to monitor for age-related health issues such as arthritis, dental problems, and organ dysfunction. Cats Like dogs, cat

Dog Ownership in Singapore: Navigating the World's Strictest Pet Rules

How does Singapore, the country with the strictest pet regulations in the world, handle dog ownership? Singapore is renowned as the "Fine City," with an array of rules designed to regulate its citizens' behavior in every facet of life. Despite its high-pressure and fast-paced lifestyle, Singapore's urbanites are increasingly seeking pets to combat loneliness. So what does it take to own a dog in Singapore? With 80% of Singaporeans living in HDB flats, the Housing Development Board (HDB) has strict regulations on the types of pets allowed. You can't keep cats in HDB flats because "they're hard to contain in apartments, and if allowed to roam, they might shed fur and relieve themselves in public areas, or make mating calls, causing disturbances to other residents." If you want to keep a dog in an HDB flat, you must get a permit from HDB and a pet license from NParks Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS). You must ensure your dog stays safe in the flat

How do GPS trackers for pets work, and are they worth investing in?

Unleashing Peace of Mind: Understanding GPS Trackers for Pets As pet parents, the safety and well-being of our fluffy companions are top priorities. Luckily, technological advancements have made it easier than ever to keep an eye on our pets, even when they go off on their own adventures and get a bit lost. Pet GPS trackers are becoming increasingly popular as tools for real-time monitoring and locating our furry friends. In this piece, we'll dive deep into how pet GPS trackers work, their perks, and whether they're worth the investment for pet parents. How Pet GPS Trackers Work Pet GPS trackers use Global Positioning System (GPS) technology to pinpoint your pet's location in real-time. These gadgets are typically attached to your pet's collar or harness and communicate with satellites orbiting the Earth to determine exactly where they are. Some GPS trackers even come with extra features like cellular connectivity, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth technology to provide enhanced trac

Do GPS trackers for pets require a monthly subscription?

Exploring the Cost of GPS Trackers for Pets: Monthly Subscriptions Unveiled Hey there, pet parents! Today, let's tackle a question that often comes to mind when considering a GPS tracker for your furry friend: Do GPS trackers for pets require a monthly subscription? It's a valid concern, as we want to ensure the safety and security of our pets without breaking the bank. So, let's dive into this topic and uncover the truth behind GPS tracker subscriptions. First things first, it's important to understand that not all GPS trackers for pets require a monthly subscription. Some trackers operate on a standalone basis, meaning you purchase the device outright and there are no ongoing fees. These trackers typically use local networks or Bluetooth technology to track your pet's location, which can be a cost-effective option for budget-conscious pet owners. However, many advanced GPS trackers do indeed require a monthly subscription to access their full range of features and

How big is the global pet bird market, really?

The Global Bird Market: Is the Pet Bird Business Worth it? Without a doubt, dogs and cats have always been the go-to choice for pet lovers everywhere. However, as interest in exotic pets continues to rise, more and more people are opting for these unique companions. For example, birds, representing the exotic pet category, are experiencing a steady surge in ownership, inadvertently driving the growth of the bird market, including products and services related to avian care. Global Bird Market Segmentation and Market Size Birds Market Segmentation The bird market is typically divided into domestic and wild birds (also known as outdoor birds).   1. Domestic Birds Mainly refers to birds bred and raised through artificial means, including various species of parrots, pigeons, and even ostriches. These birds are often kept as pets or supplied for commercial purposes to zoos, exhibitions, etc. Due to the controlled breeding and management of domestic birds, their numbers and quality are relat

Common Reasons for Cat Vomiting

More and more people are beginning to love and raise cats. Whether you're a seasoned cat lover or new to the feline world, it's important to stay up-to-date, learn, and advocate for scientifically sound cat care. There are many reasons why cats vomit, so let's talk about some of them today! Vomiting or Regurgitation? It's essential to differentiate between vomiting and regurgitation. Vomiting is a stomach issue, while regurgitation is an esophageal problem. When vomiting, you'll notice the cat's abdomen contracting, and the cat will appear restless, looking quite uncomfortable. What's expelled is usually in puddles. With regurgitation, you'll see the cat lowering its head and effortlessly bringing up the material. Typically, regurgitated material appears elongated.  Causes to Cat Vomiting Direct stomach-related causes: Hairballs Food allergies Severe gastritis Ingesting inappropriate items causing upper gastrointestinal or stomach issues Intestinal obstr

How can I tell if my pet is overweight, and what can I do to help them maintain a healthy weight?

Tackling Pet Pudge: A Guide to Keeping Your Furry Friend Fit and Fab Hey pet parents! We all want our fluffy pals to thrive, and that means looking out for their health. But with pet obesity rates on the rise, it's time to get serious about keeping our pets in tip-top shape. So, let's dive into how to spot if your pet's packing on a few extra pounds and what you can do to help them slim down and stay healthy. Spotting Chubby Checkers Spotting if your pet's tipping the scales can be a bit of a challenge, especially if those ounces have been sneaking up on you. But fear not! Here are a few telltale signs to keep an eye out for: 1. Rib Check Give your pet's ribs a gentle pat-down. Ideally, you should be able to feel them beneath a light layer of fluff. If they're buried under a cushion of fat, it's time to take action. 2. Shape Shift Take a bird's-eye view of your buddy. They should have a defined waistline behind their ribs. If they're looking more lik