Animal care
From the moment we have an animal in our care, we are responisble for assuring they get essential care and live in the appropriate conditions for their species, making sure their mental and physical care is covered. In this AnimalWised section we will teach you everything you should know about how to properly care for your pet.
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As winter arrives and the first snowflakes fall, it is important to remember that our pets feel the cold just like we do. While dressing up dogs has become a popular trend for fashion reasons, the reality is that a winter coat is often necessary to keep them warm during the colder months.
In this AnimalWised...
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Some of us might be looking for something to help with dog period blood spotting since it can leave stains on the ground, soft furnishings, and other areas. However, it is important to know that dogs don't have a period. This is because they don't have a menstrual cycle like humans. Instead, they go...
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It should be no surprise that certain sounds annoy dogs. Canines have an advanced hearing capability which far outweighs our own. While humans can perceive sound frequencies ranging from 20 to 20,000 Hz, dogs are capable of registering sounds with frequencies between approximately 20 and 60,000 Hz. This...
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When a cat changes their behavior towards you, becomes apathetic, meows constantly, or changes their eating habits, it could be a sign they want another cat in the home. When a cat is lonely, they will express this desire for company in various ways. Intense loneliness can become so stressful that it...
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Ever wonder why your cat jumps at the vacuum cleaner or hides during a thunderstorm? Cats have far more sensitive hearing than humans, picking up on a wider range of frequencies that go unnoticed by our ears. This superpower can be a double-edged sword. Many everyday sounds we barely register can be overwhelming...
Menopause is the term used to explain the cessation of reproductive age in the human female, not something which felines will experience. There are sometimes human physical conditions which, although not biologically the same, have a parallel. Cats and humans do not have the same type of reproductive cycle,...
As a responsible dog owner, we know that you prioritize the well-being of your beloved furry friend, aiming to provide them with a safe, loving, and fear-free environment. Just like humans, dogs can experience moments of unease or fear in certain situations. Our main objective here is to offer you gentle...
The signs a dog is sad or depressed are revealed in their body language and behaviors. Dogs do not communicate with us in the same way. They will want to tell us how they are, but they will do so in a manner which requires interpretation on our part. Many people will look at a dog's face and think they...
Pomeranian dogs are known for their ability to shed, something which is more noticeable than many other breeds. This is because of the sheer abundance of fur in Pomeranian dogs, making a high-shedding rate an often messy business. Known for being loveable little balls of fluff, any annoyance over their...
There are many reasons you may want to help your cat to get to sleep. Some cats may be having a period of stress or hyperactivity which is making them restless. Helping them to sleep better will hopefully help with the symptoms of stress and anxiety. Another reason is the disruption even happy cats can cause...
Does your dog suffer from itchy skin, watery eyes, or constant sneezing? These could be signs of allergies! Antihistamines are medications commonly used to combat these symptoms by blocking histamine, the chemical released during an allergic reaction. While traditional antihistamines are effective, some pet...
Whether vaccinated or not, kittens generally do not need baths. When newborn, their mother takes care of their hygiene by licking them and even disposing of their waste. As they develop, their mother imparts the skills they will need to clean themselves and others in their family group. Bathing also removes...
A healthy dog pregnancy will last around 63 days with different stages during this period. As a caregiver to the dog, we need to best ensure the mother dog's health and well-being. Doing so will give her gestating pups the best potential start in life. In this AnimalWised article we are going to tell...
We expect our pregnant dog to eat more since she has to provide enough nutrition not only for herself, but also her developing offspring. A dog pregnancy lasts around 65 days, a process which has various stages. The dog's appetite can fluctuate during these stages, resulting in her adjusting her food...
When a kitten in a cat's litter has died, it is understandable for us to be upset at the loss of life. The average kitten litter is around 4-6 newborns, but there could be even more. Unfortunately, it is relatively common for a kitten to die during various stages of the 63-66 days of an average cat gestation....
Rabbits are among the five most popular house pets. As first-time owners, more and more people want to know the best ways to look after their pet bunnies and improve the health and quality of their lives. Looking after a rabbit
Rabbits need specific care to stay healthy and happy. AnimalWised is here...
At AnimalWised, we frequently emphasize the importance of environmental enrichment for feline well-being. Providing a variety of toys and stimulating activities helps prevent stress, boredom, and behavioral problems in cats. But did you know that sound can also play a role in enriching your cat's life?
This...
When a beloved pet passes away, not everyone has the option for an expensive plot in a pet cemetery. Similarly, it may not be feasible to bury their remains at home. Some people choose to scatter the ashes, but this means we are not left with something tangible to memorialise them. Fortunately, there are...
Female dogs are only fertile for short periods throughout the year, but males can mate at almost any point. For this reason, there is a lot of competition between males for each female dog. While the males will fight it out, it is common for a female to mate with multiple partners when she is in the...
Dogs communicate more than just barks and whines. They use a wide range of sounds and behaviors to express their feelings. A key part of understanding dog communication is recognizing the sounds that make them happy. By learning these "happy sounds" and using them to your advantage, you can create a positive and...
When we adopt a turtle, we should know what we are likely to experience. We won't be able to play fetch or run in the country. This doesn't mean turtles aren't incredibly rewarding pets, but they are slow movers. They can remain still for long periods, even if they are not asleep. However, they do move...
Poultry red mites (PRMs), scientifically known as Dermanyssus gallinae, are minuscule, reddish-brown parasites that feast on the blood of chickens. These nocturnal creatures, primarily active under the cloak of darkness, pose a significant threat to the health and productivity of chickens. PRM infestations...
Dogs, being active and curious creatures, are prone to sustaining various types of wounds. These injuries can range from minor scratches and scrapes to more severe lacerations and puncture wounds. While some minor dog wounds may heal on their own, providing timely and appropriate home treatment can expedite...
The reasons a cat's third eyelid is showing can be benign, but it can also be a symptom of a serious disease. These can be bacterial infections or other diseases which affect the eye directly, but they can also be more systemic. Also known as the nictitating membrane, the third eyelid can appear in one...
Canaries, those cheerful songbirds known for their vibrant melodies, are diurnal creatures, meaning they are primarily active during the day and sleep at night. Just like humans, they require adequate rest to maintain their overall health and well-being. Understanding their sleep patterns and habits...
Wondering whether you should keep a puppy with their mother is an understandable predicament. If you have a dog that has just birthed some puppies, you will have seen the love and care with which she tends to her offspring. You have also invested practical and emotional energy in ensuring the mother and puppies...
Keeping a cat indoors is an important method of protection for many felines, especially when living in a built-up area such as a city. There are many dangers outside which can cause harm to the animal. There is also the risk of becoming lost and adding their number to the surfeit of stray cats which...
The best toys for Chihuahuas are similar to the toys all dogs need, but they have some specific considerations we need to make when caring for them. Chihuahuas are one of the most popular breeds in the world. The fact they are the smallest may be one of the reasons for this, but it is their uniquely charming...
The arrival of new life through the birth of puppies is an extraordinary and touching moment in a dog's life. Witnessing this natural process can be both awe-inspiring and heartwarming for pet owners. Mother dogs, however, undergo some behavioral changes after giving birth that can seem perplexing to...
The canary (Serinus canaria forma domestica) is one of the most famous domestic birds in the world. Different birds kept as pets have different reputations. For example, the grey parrot (Psittacus erithacus) is known for its high levels of intelligence and well-developed personality. The canary is perhaps...
The hedgehog lifespan will vary according to species. All hedgehogs are part of the taxonomic family Erinaceidae and they make up all the members of the subfamily Erinaceinae. 17 species of hedgehog have been officially recognized, although there may be others yet to be discovered. Not all hedgehog species...
Ticks are blood-feeding parasites that latch onto their hosts, including humans and animals, to feed on their blood. Their bites can cause itching, redness, inflammation, and in some cases, allergic reactions. The presence of ticks inside the house not only increases the risk of bites and potential transmission...
Chamomile, renowned for its healing properties, has long been used as a natural remedy for various health issues and skin disorders. Interestingly, its application has extended to the field of veterinary medicine, where it has become a popular method for addressing eye conditions in dogs. But what is the truth...
Generally speaking, it is safe to deworm a pregnant dog. Deworming is a necessary protocol for any dog since it prevents common parasite infestations which can cause harm to both the dog themselves, as well as other animals and humans in the home. Protecting a pregnant dog from these problems also protects her...
If your pregnant dog is shaking, it is common to think of the possibility she is going into labor. How far along the dog is into her pregnancy will determine whether this is a joyful occasion or a serious cause for concern. A dog's pregnancy will last an average of around 9 weeks, although this will vary...
Turtles reproduce by internal fertilization, requiring a male and a female to do so. If you have a male and female tortoise at home, pregnancy is a real possibility. Similarly, if you have a female tortoise at home and they are exposed to a male for any length of time, pregnancy can occur. Tortoises are...
Also known as Henry's pouch, the Henry's pocket is a fold in the skin which creates a little chamber on the outer side of the ear pinna. The purpose of this part of a cat's ear anatomy is not well understood. It is possibly a vestigial trait, but it is something which appears on some other mammal species....
Mobile apps are a great tool to help us manage different aspects of our daily lives. For dog and cat caregivers, they open a door to multiple possibilities that will allow them to take better care of their welfare, among other benefits. To illustrate this, in this article we will talk about Flockr, one...
Depending on what they last rolled in, dogs can smell like many things, but fish is one of the most unpleasant and common odors they develop. This foul odor can come from the mouth, the butt, or seemingly the entire body. If your dog smells like fish, it is usually the result of an underlying health problem....
Neutering or spaying a dog is a surgical procedure in which the reproductive organs are removed: In female dogs, the ovaries and uterus are removed; in males, the testicles are removed. This procedure is becoming more common as the importance of neutering a dog and its benefits become better known among...
Every dog owner knows how important it is to walk their dog on a daily basis. Taking your dog for a walk allows them to get rid of their pent-up energy. In addition, your dog will be mentally stimulated and socially enriched by the sights, sounds and smells they encounter. A dog that never leaves their property...
When we decide to adopt a dog into our family, it is important we recommend spaying or neutering. This is so that we can avoid unwanted pregnancy which can both strain our resources and contribute to the overpopulation of abandoned dogs. Some may find they have a pregnant bitch either by design or accident....
Rabbits can be a great addition to the family for many reasons: they do not require a lot of space, expensive toys, or food. They also have their own unique personalities and can make friends with their caretakers or other pets. Among pets, rabbits are the third most popular after cats and dogs, and...
Modern pet parenting is smarter than ever. As our homes become more connected, so does the way we care for our pets. Feeding isn’t just about filling a bowl anymore—it’s about creating a healthy rhythm that supports your cat’s overall well-being. Every mealtime and sip of water can make a difference when...
When a dog is experiencing their heat cycle, we can expect certain changes. Such changes apply to both their physical state and their behavior. As dog guardians, we need to ensure we provide care adapted to their changing needs. While this will involve a lot of practical care, it is possible a dog's emotional...
A female dog that has just given birth to a litter of puppies requires a number of special attentions that we, as caregivers, need to know. There are some changes in her diet that we need to consider, especially because a lactating female dog needs a more nutrient dense diet than normal. What your female...
When we are caring for a pregnant dog, everything is building to the moment of delivery. We want both the mother dog and future puppies to be as safe and healthy as possible. Since a prolonged and/or difficult labor will threaten the health of both, we need to know as much as we can before the birth....
The survival of a species is based on adaptation to their environment. Since environments are rarely stable, behaviors need to be adapted to changing conditions. Since some environments can be sufficiently harsh to threaten the existence of an animal, said animal may need to take seemingly extreme measures...
Given the speed and ease with which guinea pigs reproduce, it is not uncommon for owners to have doubts about whether or not their guinea pig has become pregnant. Whether you are trying to breed guinea pigs or you have unknowingly allowed your guinea pig to become pregnant, there are some signs that indicate...
You have likely seen on social media various examples of a dog's hair being dyed. There are reports of dogs being dyed to look like animals, cats having their coats shaved to imprint with various designs or sometimes the entire coat of a dog being turned a different color. They are popular because they...