Basic care of Pets
Learn more about basic care of pets by exploring our site and become a true expert on the animal kingdom. You'll find content created for the best professionals with pictures, videos and opinions.
129 articles
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Dogs are very sensitive and observant animals. When their human companion becomes pregnant they realise early on thanks to the subtle change in odor, body shape, mood and behaviour. This may cause your canine to also behave differently than usual.
In this AnimalWised article we're going to explain why...
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Grass is safe for dogs to eat as long as it doesn't have any toxic chemicals. It's a great source of fibre in our dog's diet and many dogs even enjoy eating it just for the taste. However, what does it mean when a dog keeps eating grass and throwing up afterwards?
In this AnimalWised article, we're going...
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If a dog suddenly wants to be alone, it is something contrary to canine nature. While sociability levels will differ according to the individual, dogs are social animals at their core. They thrive in a group environment and can suffer serious harm if they are unable to mix with others. If a dog is not as...
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In most circumstances, we will ideally want to leave catching a stray cat to the professionals. Feline protection volunteers and wildlife welfare services are trained and experienced in humane cat trapping so it can be done as safely as possible. However, there are some circumstances where we are required...
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Can a cat freeze to death? The answer is yes, cats can suffer from hypothermia from low temperatures which can lead to their death.
This is why in this AnimalWised article we're going to answer common winter safety questions about cats, such as how cold is too cold for outdoor and indoor cats and how...
Hamsters can be wonderful companion animals. They are especially popular with children and they can bond much stronger than many imagine. Since hamsters are such great companions to us, many caregivers wonder if we can provide them with their own companionship when we are not around. For this reason, they...
In the winter, we can give a dog a coat to warm them up. When temperatures rise, it is not so easy to take layers off. Keeping a dog cool in the summer is not a minor issue. When a dog becomes too hot, it threatens their health. Heat stroke is a real problem, especially for dogs which have a sensitivity...
I bought my first automatic feeder out of guilt. Late shift, dog at home, and the realisation that "he'll be fine" had become something I said rather than something I knew. What surprised me was that the biggest change had less to do with the feeder itself.
Pets thrive on familiar routines. Meals arrive...
Although you might not notice it when they are newborn, you may see your cat start to develop a fat pouch on their belly. Even if your cat is otherwise slim and lithe, you might see they have a fat belly. This can make us worry if they are eating too much or are suffering from an inflammation which poses...
A dog's extremities play important functions, not only related to mobility. They allow them to interact with their environment, communicate with others and even allow themselves to get comfortable. A dog's paws are almost paradoxical as they are both very sturdy and very sensitive at the same time....
There are over 350 different species of parrots within the parrot superfamily, including parakeets, lovebirds, cockatoos, parrots, and macaws. There are many factors that affect the life expectancy of these animals, including their species, habitat, diet, and whether they live in captivity or in the wild....
Domestic rats still have a stigma for many, even those who would otherwise consider themselves animal lovers. They are often categorized as vermin and overlooked as pets. When well cared for, rats can make incredible companion animals. Practically speaking, they are small and do not require the same...
With the wide range of cats litter available, choosing the right product for your cat can be a daunting task. Not to mention that some products can be quite expensive. Moreover, there are some products that can even cause allergies or inflammation of the cat's mucous membranes because they contain fragrances...
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...
Guinea pigs are friendly rodents that are becoming increasingly popular as pets. They are small, intelligent, and have the ability to adapt to living in an apartment. Although guinea pigs can be nervous or skittish at first, with consistent, gentle handling they usually become tame very quickly and...
Cats are very particular about their bellies. It is one of the most vulnerable parts of their body, and they will go to great lengths to protect it. For this reason, when a cat exposes their belly to their guardians, it shows a level of love and trust which is not easy for every cat to express. When they...
If you have been walking your dog and it started raining, you may be in a situation when they will need a wash when you return home. Even on a sunny day, your dog can easily find ways to get a little grubby and in need of a bath. Unfortunately, there may be instances when we reach for the dog shampoo...
Dogs are known for their ability to bark, but have you ever wondered why they do it? Dogs bark for a variety of reasons, including communication, warning, and expressing emotions such as fear or excitement. However, when your dog barks at you for no apparent reason, it can be confusing and frustrating for...
Neutering male dogs provides many benefits, not least the reduction of various health risks such as testicular or prostate cancers. While these advantages are important, neutering in the form of castration can prevent behavioral issues in male dogs related to their reproductive ability. Since sexually intact...
A dog's weight is an important consideration when adopting an animal. In terms of practical space, not all homes will be equipped to house a very large dog. We also need to be able to walk them comfortably and ensure the safety of all members of the home, including the dog themselves. If we adopt a German...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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 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...
Giving a puppy its first bath is one of the sweetest moments any animal lover can experience. However, there are some factors that should be taken into account before bathing puppies. These factors are directly related to a puppy’s health. Extra care needs to be taken especially if your puppy is between...
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...
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...
Cats are very hygienic animals. If they do not spend a large part of their waking life licking and grooming themselves, then it means there is something wrong. For this reason, there are not many occasions where you will need to bathe the cat. In general, the less we bathe them the better.
However,...
The environment in which you keep your dog affects your dog in many ways. While we should know it is our responsibility to keep this environment safe, we may not be doing all we can to ensure the well-being of our dog. There are certain elements within a dog's environment which can cause them harm, even...
As a cat caregiver, you must already know that each cat is different when it comes to their personality. Where some cats will enjoy being indoors all day and rarely go out, others will need more time in nature to exercise and satisfy their curiosity. However, what should you do if your cat keeps trying to...
Elevated dog bowls are a controversial topic among pet caregivers. This is because there are varying theories regarding their pros and cons. Some suggest they aid digestion, while others claim the opposite. The original theory supporting elevated dog bowls posited that they would improve the posture...
Having newborn puppies or kittens at home always brings great joy, but also many questions. Did your dog just have puppies? Are you tempted to pick them up, but not sure if you should? They look fragile, and perhaps you have heard that the mother dog will reject her newborn pups if a human touches them....
The French Lop is a small, furry and pleasant animal with long and floppy ears. When deciding to adopt one, it is important to pay attention to their particular needs.
The French Lop rabbit weighs around 4.5 kilograms (9.9 lbs), although they can grow to be bigger. They are a delicate and quiet breed,...
In this AnimalWised article, we are going to discuss ranitidine, a drug which is used to treat various conditions. Most of these conditions are related to gastrointestinal issues such as inflammation and acid reflux. Not all drugs safe for humans are safe for dogs, but ranitidine is one of them. Although...
Dental hygiene in dogs is a serious health concern which goes ignored by too many dog guardians. Many of us neglect the cleaning of our dog's teeth, allowing plaque to accumulate and tartar to develop. This can lead to serious periodontal issues which can drastically affect the dog's oral hygiene. While...
Although we need to expect it, we are never truly prepared for the death of a beloved dog. The circumstances of their death can affect how we are able to grieve. If we are fortunate, they can grow old and we can take solace in the knowledge they lived a long and happy life. Sometimes we are not so fortunate....
Do you have a short-haired guinea pig? You are very lucky if you have this type of rodent companion, as besides being a very intelligent and sweet pet, it needs less looking after than many of their own species.
Even so, in order to make sure that their health doesn't suffer and it lives a long and...
The American Akita descends from the Matagi Akita, a breed from 17th Century Japan. These dogs were used for bear hunting at first, and later as fighting dogs. Over the decades they were crossbred with Tosa Inu and Mastiffs, originating different Akita breeds which were classified according to their use.
American...