There is one question that all cat owners ask: Is my cat’s behavior weird or is that actually normal for felines? Most of the unusual behavior we see in our cats is perfectly normal; we just don’t understand what they’re telling us. Fortunately we have the secret that will reveal cat behavior.
If you’ll pardon the pun, obesity in pets is a growing problem. According to the 8th annual National Pet Obesity Prevalence Survey (2014), 58% of cats and 53% of dogs in the USA are obese. According to the 2014 National Pet Obesity Awareness Day survey, 52.7% of dogs and 57.9% of cats in the USA are obese. Different studies, similar results.
Ear infections are one of the most common medical issues for both cats and dogs. Dogs and pups with floppy ears, like Cocker Spaniels, are more prone to ear infections than dogs with erect ears, like German Shepherds. Outdoor cats have a higher rate of ear infections than indoor cats, although indoor cats are not immune.
Cats are aloof and not as responsive to training as dogs. But offer a cat a treat they love and they’ll be as eager to please as any pup. Cat treats are effective training tools, and they help calm anxious cats forced into uncomfortable situations. These include introductions to an unfamiliar environment, or even worse, a bath.
Some cats are just too classy for cat food. Should you indulge their high-flying ways, or is it too much of a risk? According to vets, the best food for cats is a stable diet of vet-recommended cat food with the necessary nutrients. However, there’s nothing wrong with a little human food every now and then, provided it’s in moderation and it’s safe for cats. There are some food to avoid because they contain toxic ingredients.
For some dogs, treats are an integral part of their daily routine. For some they’re nothing more than a reward for training. Whatever the approach, it’s important to ensure all treats are healthy dog treats. It’s also important to remember moderation, because too many treats, even healthy dog treats, have an adverse effect on your dog’s health.
Most pet insurance companies don’t cover pregnancy and breeding. There are simply too many complications that could arise and things that could wrong for a typical pet insurer to cover the risks. However, there are pet insurance companies that offer specialist products for breeders, so that they can give their breeding dogs and cats (and their offspring) the best medical care available.