Pets Articles

Article / Updated 06-08-2022

Online, cat content reigns supreme — but their internet popularity doesn’t seem to translate into real-world adoptions. According to the Human Society of the United States, just 35 percent of households own cats (versus 54 percent for dogs). So if you’ve been thinking of adding a furry friend to the family, why not consider the kitty? And not just because June is National Adopt a Cat Month — adopting a low-maintenance mouser has perks all year-round. Just imagine the mood boost of watching silly cat videos online 24-7, and you’ll begin to understand just how much a four-legged friend can enhance your well-being. The benefits of cat ownership A pet can be a crucial addition to our support networks, as many first-time pet parents discovered during pandemic lockdowns. The companionship of a beloved pet has been proven to alleviate stress, loneliness, depression, and anxiety. Cats can even help us process grief: Talking to a pet in our time of need can help us sort through our complicated feelings without fear of judgment. Cats are also unlikely to become distressed by our distress, making them more of a comfort than an additional worry. But cats don’t just benefit your emotional heart — they benefit your physical heart, too. One study found that cat owners were 30 percent less likely to die from a heart attack than people who have never owned them, while another found that cat owners were at reduced risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease. While these outcomes may be due to overall lifestyle differences, it’s safe to say that cats deserve at least some of the credit: Cat purrs have been found to lower blood pressure, reduce stress, and even support bone density and healing. Best of all, almost anyone can enjoy the benefits of owning a cat. Unlike dogs, cats are perfectly content with a 100 percent indoor lifestyle (in fact, it’s much safer for them — and the local environment — if they don’t venture out). Cats are also quiet and small, making them ideal for apartment living. And, as long as they have fresh food, water, and litter, cats are relatively autonomous. Their low-maintenance ways make them a great pet for anyone from older adults to people who work long hours away from home. Choosing a cat (or kitten) On average, cats live between 12 and 18 years — so you’ll want to choose your new family member wisely. READ MORE: How to Recognize Good Health in Kittens and Cats Adopting a kitten While kittens are indisputably adorable, they may not be well suited to your experience, lifestyle, or family. That’s because kittens are cats in training: They don’t yet have the grace and self-sufficiency of adult cats and need more attention, patience, and gentleness as they grow. Spending their formative months in a loud, chaotic environment can impact a kitten’s behavior for life, so be realistic about your lifestyle (and keep out of the reach of children). READ MORE: Choosing a Cat or Kitten: Which Is Better for You? Adult cats Cats become adults around the age of 1: still cute, but much less of a mystery. With their personalities generally set, it’s easier to identify the snuggly couch potato or playful hunter of your dreams. Do you want a cat that gets along with other animals? A cat that vocalizes? A mature cat provides the best chance of finding the right fit. Of course, their greatest strength could also be a curse — like humans, adult cats with behavioral issues will be more set in their ways. Be sure to inquire about any potential challenges before committing. And in case you were wondering, adult cats are as capable of developing love and affection for their owners as kittens are (as long as the feeling’s mutual). READ MORE: Cats for Dummies Cheat Sheet Breed characteristics People often fall in love at first sight with their future cat, committing to a life together without knowing much about them. Understanding a bit about the different breeds can help you narrow the field and find the right cat for your household. Some breeds require more grooming than others, for example, while some are more tolerable for people with allergies. READ MORE: Cat Characteristics by Breed When in doubt, lean on the experts: Shelter and rescue workers know which cats hate being picked up, which are suitable for young children, and which will get along with your aging dog. Some cat rescues even have foster programs that allow you to live with your potential cat-to-be for a trial period, giving you both a glimpse of your future together. The fix is in Owners failing to neuter or spay their cats is one of the biggest causes behind the rising number of homeless cats in the U.S. While no one feels good about subjecting their little one to surgery, it’s really in everyone’s long-term interest: According to the ASPCA, fixed cats are at lower risk for all kinds of behavioral issues and health problems, including various cancers. Spaying or neutering is also much less expensive than raising or rehoming a litter of kittens (not to mention, less stressful). While many shelters and rescues perform these and other necessary medical procedures prior to adoption, be sure to request your kitty’s medical records before taking them home. For more guidance on becoming a cat parent, check out the book Cats for Dummies.

Cheat Sheet / Updated 04-27-2022

Potty-training your puppy or adult dog doesn’t just prevent canine bathroom accidents in your house; housetraining also helps you make sure your dog stays healthy. With the right tools and some potty-training tips and tricks, you and your pup can set the stage for a long and happy life together.

Cheat Sheet / Updated 04-27-2022

Recognizing why and how your dog behaves can help you to take on the role as pack leader to give your dog the cues, guidance, and consistency she needs to shape and develop good behaviors. Understanding your dog's body language and the proper methods of discipline, along with using basic, yet helpful, commands will go a long way in developing your pooch into a well-behaved companion.

Cheat Sheet / Updated 04-26-2022

Picking the perfect Yorkshire terrier starts with purchasing the dog from a reputable breeder and looking for the characteristics that define the breed standard. Puppy-proofing your home and keeping animal emergency phone numbers handy will keep your Yorkshire terrier safe and happy.

Cheat Sheet / Updated 04-26-2022

Prepare your home for your shih tzu’s arrival by purchasing some essential (and fun!) dog supplies. Keep your shih tzu happy and healthy by having emergency contact numbers handy and feeding your dog healthy treats in moderation.

Cheat Sheet / Updated 04-26-2022

Before you bring home your new pet iguana, purchase all the necessary supplies and equipment, and make sure the enclosure is roomy enough for your iguana’s size. Daily baths are part of iguana care, so be sure you know how to bathe your iguana correctly, and be on the lookout for certain conditions that require a trip to the veterinarian.

Cheat Sheet / Updated 04-26-2022

Despite their bad reputation, pit bulls (American pit bull terriers and Staffordshire terriers) are a lovable breed that you’ll want to cherish and keep healthy for a long canine life. Doing regular health checks keeps you attuned to your dog’s condition, and if there is an emergency, knowing what to do can give you a hand in potentially saving your dog’s life.

Cheat Sheet / Updated 04-20-2022

Before bringing home your adorable Golden Retriever, take steps to dog-proof your house and surrounding areas. Know the signs of a serious medical problem or pet emergency, so you can contact your veterinarian and, if needed, give the right amount of pet safe medications to your Golden Retriever.

Cheat Sheet / Updated 04-14-2022

When you decide on a ferret as a pet, know how to find a reputable breeder and recognize the signs of a healthy and happy ferret. When someone is looking after your ferret, leave all essential information for the pet sitter and make sure your first-aid kit is stocked with all of the items your ferret might need.

Article / Updated 04-14-2022

Yes, dog training is based on common sense. However, you do need to keep in mind a few specific guidelines — the dos and don’ts — to make sure that you’re successful and fostering a healthy relationship with your dog. The following sections are here to help get you started. Dos Do be nice to your dog every time he comes to you (even if he’s just coming back from an unexpected romp around the neighborhood). Do get into the habit of giving a command only once. If your dog doesn’t respond to a command you have taught her, reinforce the command. Do use your dog’s name to get her attention, and then tell her what you want her to do. Do eliminate the word “no” from your training vocabulary. Do use a normal tone of voice when you give a command. Your dog’s hearing is quite acute. Do be consistent in your actions and expectations. Do provide an outlet for your dog’s energies. Do keep your dog mentally stimulated by training him. Do understand that your dog is a social animal. Train him so he can be a part of the family. Do socialize your dog with people and other dogs. Do become your dog’s teacher. Do make learning fun for your dog. Do consistently reward with praise the correct behaviors. Do spend plenty of time with your dog and give her lots of exercise. Do keep trying, and your dog will reward you by getting the message. Do get outside help when you get stuck. Don’ts Don’t do anything your dog perceives as unpleasant when she comes to you. Don’t nag your dog by repeating commands — nagging teaches him to ignore you. Don’t use your dog’s name and then expect him to read your mind as to what you want. Don’t expect your dog to know what the word “no” means. Don’t yell at your dog. She’s not deaf. Raising your voice doesn’t improve understanding. Don’t confuse your dog with unrealistic expectations. Don’t try to suppress behaviors that need an outlet. Don’t let your dog stagnate. Don’t lock up your dog or put her out because you haven’t trained her to behave. Don’t isolate your dog — he’s a social animal. Don’t expect your dog to obey a command you haven’t taught him. Don’t get too serious in your training. Don’t reward undesired behaviors. Don’t make your dog neurotic by neglecting her. Don’t give up when the going gets tough; keep trying. Don’t blame the dog; you are her teacher.