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Feed With Confidence: How To Switch Or Transition
 Your Pets’ Food

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Feed With Confidence: How To Switch Or Transition
 Your Pets’ Food

There will likely be a time when your pet will need to switch to a new food, whether it’s to a therapeutic nutrition, a new formula or they just need a food that better suits their life stage. Pets should gradually transition to new food to avoid stomach upset. Here are some tips for transitioning your pet to a new food.

1. Determine the right amount per serving
Make sure that you’re not overfeeding your pet, and the portions they get are appropriate for their weight and health needs. Your veterinarian will have the best recommendation on serving size, but you can also check the feeding guide on your pet’s food packaging.
2. Follow this 7-day transition schedule
Once your portions are correct, gradually decrease the amount of current (old) food while increasing the amount of new food. Be patient — if it seems like your pet needs a little more time, add an extra day or two to the schedule.
 
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While it’s not a necessity, some pets are a little more stubborn than others, and a little wet food can make all the difference. To avoid going over their daily caloric intake requirements, be sure to check with your vet on the proper serving sizes.

Combine wet & dry food

Try feeding your pet the dry kibble version of the same diet and softening it with the following ratios:
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Source: Hill’s

Don’t forget Your Pet’s Holiday Plans This December

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Don’t forget Your Pet’s Holiday Plans This December

Planning ahead, December holiday bookings for your pets

The end of the year is a time to look forward to sunshine, travel, and much-needed rest. We’ve barely made it through winter, and December feels like a long way off; however, when it comes to securing your pet’s holiday accommodation, kennel, cattery, or a trusted sitter, it’s imperative to think ahead. 

“Early planning for your pet’s holiday arrangements ensures peace of mind for you and reduces stress for your pet. December is the busiest time of year for kennels, catteries, and pet sitters, so bookings need to be made well in advance,” explains Marycke Ackhurst, pet behaviour expert from Hill’s Pet Nutrition.

Key considerations for pet holiday planning:

  1. Book early
    Boarding kennels and catteries are already filling up, and pet sitters are getting booked. If you wait until the last minute, you may struggle to find safe, reliable care for your pet. As of January this year, there are approximately 175 registered pet boarding services across South Africa, with 86 located in Gauteng alone.
  2. Do your research
    Visit kennels or catteries in person where possible. Look out for clean facilities, adequate space, and staff who interact warmly with the pets. For sitters, arrange a meet-and-greet beforehand to ensure your pet feels comfortable. Many pet sitters require pet parents to fill out a survey regarding your pet’s food, any medication they may be on, medical history, their vet, pet peeves, etc.
  3. Prepare your pet for the change
    Just like us, pets can feel unsettled in new environments. A trial day at a kennel or an introduction visit with the sitter can ease the transition. Sending familiar items such as their bed, blanket, or favourite toy/s can also help them feel secure.
  4. Keep medical care up to date
    Most facilities require proof of vaccinations, so make sure your pets are up to date well before the December rush. As Ackhurst notes, vaccines take two weeks to ‘activate’, so they will need to be done well in advance of the kennel or cattery drop off. If your pet is prone to stress, chat to your vet about calming aids or stress-reducing nutrition options, such as *Hill’s Prescription Diet i/d Stress for dogs which helps promote a calming effect, supports healthy digestion, promotes activity of beneficial gut bacteria and calms the GI tract and Hill’s Prescription Diet c/d Multicare Stress for cats formulated to reduce stress, a risk factory for common urinary signs.
  5. Factor in festive stressors
    The holidays can mean fireworks, parties, and visitors, all of which can heighten anxiety in pets. Even if they’re staying home, ensure they have a safe, quiet space to retreat to. And make sure your house sitter knows your fireworks protocols (like all pets inside, covered crate, calming meds, etc)
  6. Plan for emergencies
    Share your vet’s contact details with your sitter, kennel, or cattery, and provide clear instructions about diet, medication, and routines. This ensures consistency and swift action if anything unexpected arises. Plus, it’s important to inform your vet of your pet’s holiday plan in case the kennel or pet sitter needs to communicate with them.

“The earlier you prepare your pet’s holiday care, the smoother and less stressful the festive season will be, for both you and your pet,” Ackhurst concludes.

*If you’re anticipating a stressful event, such as fireworks or even holiday kennels, it’s recommended you transition your pet onto a stress-reducing food two to four weeks beforehand. However, many pet parents have reported positive results as early as a few days. If your pet is a nervous type, you can consider this food for long-term feeding.

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Visit the Hill’s website for more information

Media queries

Julia Rice | Republic PR | julia@republicpr.co.za

Source: Hills

Help for troubled tummies!

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Help for troubled tummies

Cat Constipation: Signs and Causes

Like people, cats can get constipated from time to time, and it’s not pleasant for us or them. It can be tricky to spot if your cat has a tummy upset or intestinal problem, especially if they go outside to go to the toilet, but there are usually some telltale signs you can look out for.

What is constipation?

Constipation is basically the opposite of diarrhoea. The poo gets dried out, hard and difficult to pass. This can be very uncomfortable and, if it goes on for some days, it can make cats feel really unwell and miserable.

Common causes of constipation in cats

Cats are usually pretty low-maintenance pets, but there are several things that can cause constipation. Let’s look at what those things might be and how to spot when it’s an issue.

Dehydration. Cats have evolved from ancestors that live in hot, desert-type places, so they’re very good at conserving the water in their bodies. This means they tend not to drink very much, which can lead to dehydration and dryer stools.

This is even more likely to happen in situations like a multi-cat house, where one cat might not have equal access to the food and water due to a resident bully. To make sure your cat stays hydrated, place several water bowls around the house so that they have water freely available wherever they are. At a minimum, ensure that there is one more water bowl than the number of cats in the home. 

Lots of cats are fed dry food for convenience these days, which can reduce their normal water intake. Feeding wet food, such as pouches and tins, is a great way to ensure your cat gets plenty of fluids. 

Swallowing hair. Cats love to groom and spend about 30-40% of their waking time tending to this important job. While some cats that ingest a lot of hair might vomit up a furball or two, some hair may go all the way through and clog up the other end.

Injuries and pain. Injuries such as pelvic fractures may physically narrow the passage where the large bowel sits, making it difficult for the cat to pass stools. Also, as cats get older and their joints get stiffer, they may find that squatting is painful. They might avoid going to the toilet as often, allowing the poo to dry out too much.

Tumours. Some tumours in the bowel area can block stools from passing through, either by pressing up against the bowel from the outside, or taking up space inside.

Nerve problems. The contents of the intestines are moved from one end to the other by waves of muscular contractions called peristalsis. It happens automatically, without us ever having to think about it. Some cats get nerve problems that might hinder this. Some breeds of cat, such as the Siamese, are more prone to this. It can cause something called megacolon, where the colon becomes very slack and dilated.

Other diseases. Some other diseases, such as kidney disease, can cause dehydration, which can then lead to constipation. 

Obesity and lack of exercise. Obesity and lack of exercise can cause constipation because exercise stimulates the bowel to move. 

How do you know when your cat is constipated?

It might not alway be easy to tell if your cat’s digestive system isn’t working the way it should. Vomiting and diarrhoea are obvious, but constipation can be much harder to spot.

Things to look out for:

  1. If your cat uses a litter tray, watch for changes in frequency and consistency. If you notice you suddenly don’t have to empty the tray as much, or if the stools seem different in size or appearance (hard or crumbly), it could be a sign that things are backing up.

  2. Watch for straining or vocalisation. If your cat seems to be crying out or spending ages in the tray without success, then you should see your vet as soon as possible. This could be a sign of constipation that needs addressing, but it can also be a sign of cystitis or a blocked bladder, which are medical emergencies.

  3. Watch for your cat pooing in the wrong place. If your cat is in pain or finding the litter tray difficult, or is reluctant to go outside to poop, they may be constipated.

  4. General malaise. Constipation makes cats feel pretty miserable, just like us. Sometimes, the only sign of your cat being constipated is that they seem off-colour. They may seem lethargic and uninterested in play or company.

Hopefully, your cat will sail through life with happy bowels, but if you’re ever concerned there might be a problem, always talk to your vet. They would much rather be on the safe side and catch a problem before it gets too bad. It might be that a simple change of food is needed to give your cat more fibre or more moisture, but if there is an underlying disease, the sooner you find out, the better.

Reviewed by Dr. Hein Meyer, DVM, PhD, Dipl-ECVIM-CA

Source: Hill’s Pet Nutrition

Is shaking normal?

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Is shaking normal?

Why Is My Cat Shaking and Shivering?

As a pet parent, you’ve most likely witnessed a ton of odd behaviours from your cat. But if you’ve noticed your cat shaking and shivering recently, it may have caused you to ask, “Why is my cat shaking?” There are many different reasons a cat may shiver or shake, but regardless of the cause, it can be alarming to see your cat in physical distress. Let’s break down some causes of cat shivering and shaking so that you can best take care of your feline friend.

Cat Shivering Causes
Cats of all ages and breeds may shiver from time to time. Humans normally shiver when they’re cold, but according to the Merck Veterinary Manual, shivering is not always a sign of a cold body temperature in cats. If you and your cat have just come from outside where the temperatures are cooler, then there’s a good chance that your cat is shivering because they’re cold. However, your cat may be shaking for a few other reasons.

Fear
Fear is a common cause of shivering in cats. Cats enjoy stability, and generally speaking, when their routine is altered, it makes them anxious. Shivering during a veterinary visit or a car ride is fairly common in cats. An anxious kitty may also try to hide and assume a curled up posture very low to the ground with a tucked tail. Make sure to use caution when approaching a cat who’s giving off these body signals; if a cat hisses and pins back its ears, it’s best to give them some space.

Pain
Why is my cat shaking? Pain is another very common cause of shivering in cats, according to Pet Health Network. Despite their reputation of being somewhat spoiled and dainty animals, cats usually don’t show signs of pain until the pain is quite severe. Identifying your cat’s source of pain is not something to attempt at home, both because a painful kitty is likely to lash out at you in attempts to defend themself, but also because isolating the source takes expert veterinary training. Although the average pet parent won’t be able to accurately interpret that pain, if your cat begins open mouth breathing, appears reluctant to move or has a broken limb or large wound, it is essential to seek immediate veterinary care — even if that means an emergency visit.

In addition to these causes of shivering, the list of reasons a cat may shiver or tremble is seemingly endless. Anything that can make a cat feel ill can theoretically cause a cat to shiver or tremble. On any given day, you may wonder, “Why is my cat shaking?” If your intuition tells you something is off, trust your gut and consult with your veterinarian.

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Clinical Signs of Cat Shivering: When to See a Vet
Cats have evolved to hide their signs of injury or sickness in order to stay out of their predators’ paths, which can make it challenging to determine when your cat needs to see a vet. If you notice any of these clinical signs in combination with the shaking, seek veterinary care:

  • Change in appetite
  • Urinating inappropriately or straining
  • Stinky breath or excessive salivation
  • Increased or decreased weight
  • Increased or decreased activity level
  • Increased or decreased water and food intake
  • Change in grooming patterns
  • Change in sleeping patterns
  • Change in attitude
  • Hiding more (beyond hiding when exposed to a new environment)
  • Vocalisation changes

Normal shivering and mild shaking are not the same as violent shaking. Shaking uncontrollably, loss of muscle control, loss of bowel and/or bladder control, excessive drooling and a loss of awareness of surroundings all indicate that there is a neurological cause, such as a seizure. This warrants emergency veterinary intervention.

Why Is My Cat Shaking: Diagnosis and Treatment
The diagnosis for a cat who is shivering or shaking differs based on the physical exam and what diagnostic tests are warranted given the cat’s condition. A basic blood cell count, a biochemistry panel and a urine analysis are starting points for diagnosing a shivering cat and may identify clues. The Merck Veterinary Manual explains that elevated calcium levels in the bloodstream can cause cats to shiver and can be linked to renal disease, adrenal gland disease, parathyroid disease, dietary causes or chewing on poisonous household plants. As you can imagine from this list, your vet will have to do unique tests to isolate the cause when it isn’t obvious. Depending on the diagnosis, each will require unique treatment methods.

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Most causes of shaking and shivering in cats do not indicate a life-threatening problem, but it can be a signal that something is amiss. Although the prognoses of internal cat conditions may vary, fear/anxiety and mild pain are two of the most common causes for why a cat shakes, and they can usually resolve entirely when the fearful or painful event passes. If you’re concerned about your cat’s shaking, be sure to visit your local vet to find the best course of treatment.

Source: Hill’s Pet Nutrition

Helpful Tips for Walking Your Dog

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Helpful Tips for Walking Your Dog

Before you got your pooch, you likely imagined walking a dog would be a wonderful experience of long relaxing strolls, exploring neighbourhoods and hiking trails. In those pre-dog fantasies, your four-legged sidekick likely trotted obediently by your side on a leash, following your every command and looking at you adoringly.

Then you got your dog and the fantasy disappeared. Why does my dog have to stop and pee on everything? Why does he have to stop and sniff every blade of grass? It can be frustrating, but don’t hang up the leash!

After all, walking a dog is important to their health and happiness. Walks keep your dog agile and limber and can help relieve issues like constipation, according to PetMD. Regular walks also help keep your dog from gaining unwanted kilos. Walking a dog can also go a long way toward reducing or eliminating destructive behaviour. Dogs who haven’t had enough exercise–who feel pent up or have extra energy–can turn to digging holes in your yard or chewing everything from your shoes to your couch cushions.

Walks with you also strengthen your bond with your pooch and give them a chance to meet and interact with other people and dogs in a controlled environment. Having a dog that is socialised is very important. Socialised dogs are typically happier and friendlier than unsocialised dogs, who can be anxious and fearful around new humans or animals.

And we haven’t even talked about how walking a dog impacts your health! A study from Michigan State University and reported by the New York Times found 60 percent of dog owners who took their pets for regular walks met the federal criteria for regular moderate or vigorous exercise, with almost half of dog walkers getting an average of 30 minutes of exercise a day at least five days a week. In comparison, only about 30 percent of people without dogs got that much regular exercise.

But what is with your pup’s strange habits on your walks? Let’s take a look at some weird (and annoying!) things dogs do on the leash, why they do them, and how you can work to reduce the issue.

Dog Peeing while Walking

Why your dog does it: Dogs are territorial, and urine is a natural way a dog can mark their territory. It communicates to other dogs that they have been there. Marking usually begins in puberty.

What to do: First, consult your vet. You want to make sure the fact that your dog stopping to relieve himself every few meters is, in fact, related to marking and not because of a health issue such as a bladder infection. If it’s a behavioural issue, you can train him to reduce his need to mark as much, but it might be impossible to get him to stop it all together. Also, dogs that have not been spayed or neutered have a larger tendency to mark territory than those that have.

Rolling in the Stink

Why your dog does it: When you encounter a dead animal, garbage, or anything else stinky, does your dog stop, drop, and roll? While it’s not known exactly why dogs have this disgusting habit, one train of thought is that it’s a trait inherited from wolves. They roll in the scent then take it back to their pack for further investigation.

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What to do: Keep your pup leashed on walks (this is an important tip regardless of whether they like to roll in filth or not). Train them to recognise the command “leave it,” then reward with a treat when they do. Never pull hard on the leash to yank them away from the smelly object to avoid injuring your dog.

Pulling on the Leash

Why your dog does it: Because you’re moving too slow! Because you’re moving in the wrong direction! Because he wants to!

What to do: This behavioural issue can be fixed with proper training. Use treats and positive reinforcement to get your dog to follow your pace instead. If you have a dog that pulls, you can also try a head or body harness.. A harness may help keep your dog from pulling away from you while leashed while causing less stress on their neck or spine. Also, giving them less slack on the leash will help train them to stay close to you while walking. The more lead they have, the more they think that they have permission to explore the surrounding area causing them to pull on the leash.

Lying Down and Refusing to Move

Why your dog does it: They could be hurt, sick, or just plain tired.

What to do: Examine your dog. Are their paws rubbed raw? Is the cement too hot? Are they too hot? Let them rest and give them a drink. If that doesn’t work and there’s no obvious signs of injury, coax your buddy home with treats. Keep in mind your dog’s abilities and exercise needs before embarking. An English bulldog, for instance, will likely have much different walk expectations than a Labrador retriever. Never force walking. If they truly aren’t having it, come back and try again later. Forcing your pooch to walk when he doesn’t want to could lead to injury. If it becomes a chronic problem, consult your vet to see if there is a larger health issue of which you might not be aware.

Walking Back and Forth

Why your dog does it: A dog’s nose is much more powerful than yours. You can’t sniff all the exciting smells of other animals and humans that he does. He’s following scent trails when he’s zigging and zagging in front of you and probably not even noticing he’s tripping you.

What to do: Teach your dog to walk at a heel and on a certain side of your body. You can use verbal cues and treats to teach your dog how to walk nicely on a leash. However, a dog thoroughly enjoys sniffing so giving him an opportunity to do so when you’re both comfortable is a nice thing to do for your pup. Again, keeping the leash short and close to you will help reduce this behaviour and hopefully keep you from getting tripped up.

Biting the leash

Why your dog does it: Your dog is soooo excited that you’re taking them on a walk that they have to release that energy somewhere. Suddenly your leash becomes a tug-of-war toy.

What to do: Teach your dog to relax at the sight of his leash rather than get overly excited. VetStreet offers some tips like training him against being too rambunctious and rewarding him when he sits and stays nice and calm when you break out the leash.

Going on a walk is likely to be one of the highlights of your dog’s day. By training your pup and understanding why your dog does what he does, you can enjoy your daily rambles just as much as your dog does. Always keep in mind that a walk is just as important and fun for your dog as it is for you. So, while his habits might be a little annoying sometimes, understand that it’s also okay to let a dog be a dog… just maybe not roll in stinky things.

Source: Hill’s Pet Nutrition

My Dog Sleeps All Day: Is That Normal?

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My Dog Sleeps All Day: Is That Normal?

Have you ever thought “my dog sleeps all day. Wish I could, too!” Dogs do sleep more than humans, and although we may get a little jealous of our pups’ luxurious five-hour napping habits, it’s important to understand why dogs sleep so much and know what excessive sleeping in dogs really looks like.

How Much Sleep Does My Dog Really Need?

When hanging with other pet parents, you may be curious if their dog sleeps all day, too. Unfortunately, comparing what your dog does to another dog’s habits may not be the best way to gauge what is normal. How much sleep your dog needs depends on many factors: age, breed, activity level, and environmental conditions.

If your dog generally sleeps between 12-14 hours a day, you likely have nothing to be concerned about, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC). However, if your dog is sleeping over 15 hours a day, you should pay close attention to how your dog behaves while awake. If they seem lethargic or disconnected to people and other pets, it’s time to visit your veterinarian.

Take environmental changes into consideration when it seems like your dog is sleeping more than normal. Small changes in your dog’s life could lead to big changes in their sleep habits.

  • New pets: If there’s suddenly a rambunctious kitten in the house, your dog may be looking for their own quiet spot to rest.
  • Hot weather: Be on the lookout for signs of heat exhaustion like lethargy, excessive drooling or vomiting if your dog gets sleepy in the summer.
  • A schedule change: Did you recently get a new job or change your work schedule? A dog who is home alone for long periods may become bored or lonely.
  • Playtime has increased: Has your pup recently started attending a new doggy daycare? Are the two of you training for a 5K together? Increases in playtime or exercise could just have your pup tuckered out, and it may take some time for them to adjust to the new level of exercise before they are back to their normal sleeping pattern.

Puppies: Play Hard, Nap Hard

Age is a big factor when it comes to how much sleep a dog needs. Just as human babies need a lot of sleep, the AKC notes that puppies need 15-20 hours of sleep a day to help their central nervous system, immune system and muscles develop properly. Many puppies will get the sleep they need by napping throughout the day. Encourage your dog to nap in the same quiet, comfortable spot so you can establish a routine, and try to keep children or other pets from disturbing them.

Very young puppies may also need help establishing a regular bedtime. Turn off all the lights and noises such as TV around the same time every night to convince your pet that they should go to bed when you do.

Sleep and Aging

Senior dogs tend to need more sleep than young or adult dogs, and often take longer to recover from exertion. PetHelpful notes that senior dogs can sometimes become less active due to joint pain. If your pup is not only sleeping more but also having trouble standing and walking, they may be developing arthritis.

An examination by your vet will help to reveal what could be causing your dog to sleep more and if arthritis is involved  If your pet is diagnosed with arthritis, your vet may recommend moving your pet’s dog bed to a warmer location and adding some extra padding, as well as watching your dog’s weight to avoid putting additional stress on their joints.

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My Dog Sleeps All Day: Other Factors

Mother Nature Network notes that large dogs tend to sleep more often than their smaller counterparts. Newfoundlands, Saint Bernards, Mastiffs, and Great Pyrenees are especially known for being loving and loyal floor mats. If you have a gigantic mutt who loves to sleep, they could simply have some seriously relaxed ancestors.

A little extra shut-eye here and there probably isn’t something to be concerned about, but if your dog is sleeping excessively accompanied by a change in eating patterns, unusual thirst, or excess urination, it’s time to seek medical attention. This combination can sometimes point to canine diabetes or kidney disease.

It may be a good idea to watch how your dog acts while they are  sleeping as well. Although most dog parents have seen their dog running in their sleep, other movements could be a red flag for an underlying issue. A dog who stops breathing or snores may be at risk for respiratory issues. One who sleeps so soundly that they don’t even hear a doorbell ring, on the other hand, may be losing their hearing.

Nutrition can also play an important role in your dog’s overall behaviour, including how much they may rest during the day. If they are not getting the adequate nutrition, their body may not have the energy  of a typical dog. Talk to your vet to see if your dog is getting the proper nutrition for a healthy, active life.

If you’re concerned about your pet’s sleep patterns, track theireating, play, and If you’re concerned about your pet’s sleep patterns, track their eating, play, and bathroom behaviours along with the uncharacteristic sleep behaviours. Saying “my dog sleeps all day” isn’t enough to figure out a potential problem, so make sure that your vet has enough information to find out what’s going on.

Sleep Tight

When it comes to dog sleeping patterns, there isn’t an easy answer as to whether your dog is sleeping too much or too little. The best way to know for sure is to track a typical day for your dog and share it with your vet at regular checkups. Your vet can confirm if the sleeping patterns seem normal for your dog, and if they aren’t normal, your vet can recommend adjustments to make or tests to consider. Once you realise your dog’s sleeping patterns are normal, you too can sleep tight knowing your dog is healthy and well.

Source: Hill’s Pet Nutrition

The role nutrition plays in managing your pet’s stress and anxiety

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The role nutrition plays in managing your pet’s stress and anxiety

Like us, our pets can experience stress, and for some, anxiety is more than an occasional response to loud noises or unfamiliar environments. It can be a chronic issue that affects their overall health and well-being. “Managing your pet’s stress isn’t about environmental changes alone, it’s about supporting them from the inside out too,” says Dr. Guy Fyvie Senior Veterinary Affairs Manager at  Hill’s Pet Nutrition South Africa.  “A well-balanced diet tailored to dogs and cats displaying stress-related symptoms can help maintain stability in dogs’ gastrointestinal microbiome, cats’ urinary health, and overall well-being for both. It can play a vital role in stress management.”

Stress symptoms in dogs

Stress in dogs can manifest in various ways, impacting their behaviour and physical health. Some common signs include:

  • Excessive barking – Dogs may vocalise more when they feel anxious or unsettled.
  • Unusual behaviour – Chewing, digging, or scratching at doors and furniture can be a sign of stress.
  • Restlessness – Pacing or difficulty settling down often indicates underlying anxiety.
  • Digestive issues – Stress can disrupt the gut microbiome, leading to diarrhoea, bloating, or increased intestinal motility.

The gut-brain connection plays a significant role in dogs’ stress, with imbalances in gut bacteria exacerbating anxiety symptoms.

Stress symptoms in cats

On the other hand, cats often exhibit stress in more subtle ways, many of which are linked to urinary health issues. Signs of stress in cats include:

  • Changes in litter box habits – Urinating outside the litter box can indicate a stress-related urinary issue.
  • Frequent or painful urination – Stress can contribute to urinary tract discomfort and bladder inflammation.
  • Overgrooming – Cats may lick themselves excessively especially over the irritated area,  sometimes leading to hair loss.
  • Hiding or withdrawal – A stressed cat may become less social and seek out secluded areas.

Stress in cats has been closely linked to urinary health concerns, as excess minerals in the diet can encourage the formation of crystals in the urine, potentially leading to discomfort and possibly a blocked bladder. 

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How nutrition supports stress management

A diet designed for stress-prone pets incorporates key nutrients that help promote a sense of calm while also supporting digestive health in dogs and urinary health in cats. Some essential elements to look for in stress-supporting pet nutrition include:

  • Milk protein hydrolysate – Certain proteins have calming properties that can help manage anxiety in both dogs and cats.
  • Omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants – These nutrients support brain function and reduce inflammation, benefiting both digestive and urinary health.
  • L-tryptophan – This amino acid helps regulate mood and is particularly beneficial for cats with stress-related urinary concerns.

A holistic approach to reducing stress in pets

While nutrition plays a significant role, managing stress in pets requires a comprehensive approach. Pet parents can provide support by incorporating calming techniques such as:

  • Routine and predictability – Keeping a consistent schedule for feeding, exercise, and rest can help reduce anxiety.
  • Environmental enrichment – Providing interactive toys, safe spaces, and mental stimulation can keep pets engaged and lower stress levels.
  • Physical activity – Regular exercise, including walks and playtime, helps release pent-up energy and reduces anxiety.
  • Veterinary guidance – If your pet is experiencing chronic stress, consulting your veterinarian can help identify underlying issues and potential dietary or behavioural interventions.

Plan for stressful events

Pets can be sensitive to changes in their environment, and stressful events such as travel, fireworks, vet visits, or new household members can trigger anxiety. In these cases, adjusting their nutrition in advance can help mitigate potential digestive and urinary upsets and keep them feeling their best.

“If you know a stressful event is coming up, it’s worth considering a diet that supports stress-related health conditions, alongside stress management,” Dr. Fyvie advises. “Starting the right nutrition at least two weeks ahead of time can make a significant difference in helping pets cope better.” 

Pet parents looking to ease their pet’s stress should consider a multi-faceted approach, with nutrition as a key pillar of their care routine. “By understanding the impact of diet on stress-related behaviours and health concerns, we can take proactive steps to ensure our pets lead happier, healthier lives,” Dr. Fyvie concludes.

Chat to your vet or visit the Hill’s website for information on their Prescription Diet i/d Stress dog food and their Prescription Diet c/d Multicare Stress cat food, specifically created to help manage stress in the short and long term.

Source: Hill’s Pet Nutrition

Why Does My Dog Sigh?

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Why Does My Dog Sigh?

Have you ever heard a sighing sound while relaxing at home and wondered where it came from? Or perhaps you’ve rounded the kitchen corner and caught your dog sighing?

A human sigh could mean contentment, tiredness, relaxation or even disappointment. But do dogs experience that same range of emotions when they sigh? Let’s take a deeper dive to better understand dog sighing: why it happens, what it means and what sounds are similar but different from sighing.

What Is Sighing?

Sighing is a natural bodily function common to humans and other animals. Wondering what sets a sigh apart from a normal breath? Well, most breaths are so quiet they don’t immediately register as audible. A sigh is a long breath in and out that differentiates itself by being louder.

Popular Science defines sighing as “a deep long breath about twice the volume of a typical breath.” They continue, “It also serves as a sort of stretch for your lungs — a periodic deep breath inflates the alveoli, tiny sacs in the lungs where oxygen and carbon dioxide pass in and out of the blood.”

Dogs sighing is a natural bodily response, and it’s nothing for pet parents to be anxious about.

Why Do Dogs Sigh? What Does it Mean?

According to an article from the American Kennel Club (AKC), sighs can be translated into both positive and negative emotions. The AKC explains, “When the sigh is combined with half-closed eyes, it communicates pleasure; with fully open eyes, it communicates disappointment: [such as saying] ‘I guess you are not going to play with me.'”

However, the AKC also states that while sighs can potentially indicate disappointment, moans and sighs more commonly indicate pleasure.

Try to keep an eye on your pet’s overall body language and behaviour when you hear them sighing. Do they seem distressed, tired or upset? Or are they acting content, calm or sleepy? The more clues you have from your dog, the better you’ll be able to determine what their sighing means.

Sounds Similar to Sighing

Not sure if what you’re hearing is a sigh? Here are a few different ways dogs audibly make noise so you can determine whether your pet is sighing or not:

  • Yawns: Yawns can often be mistaken for sighs as they involve taking a deep breath. However, a yawn requires a wide open mouth, whereas a sigh can be done through a mostly closed mouth or even through the nose. A yawn is mostly an involuntary bodily function; sighs can be voluntary.
  • Moans: These are somewhat similar to sighs. They are both low sounds emitted by a dog, though in the case of a sigh, the “sound” you hear comes from the breath. When a pet moans, they’re actually making the sound with their vocal cords.
  • Panting: Finally, panting is also similar to sighing as it involves an auditory breathing sound. However, the big difference here is that panting involves many short breaths while sighing is usually one longer breath.

Now, when you hear your pet sigh, you’ll know your dog is either relaxing, content or feeling a bit gloomy. But don’t worry if it’s the latter — a belly rub may be all they need to sigh in a happy manner.

Source: Hill’s Pet Nutrition

Weird Things Cats Do & Why We Love Them

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Cats

Weird Things Cats Do & Why We Love Them

Most cat parents agree that they adore their feline friends because of the weird things they do. The unpredictability of funny cat behavior (Why do cats love boxes? And why do they zoom around at 3 a.m.?) livens up any household. But what you see as silly and entertaining is just your cat following their instincts.

Here are six weird things cats do and the science behind them.

Cats

1. Kneading

One of the most common and distinctive catlike displays of affection is kneading. You climb into bed or curl up in your favorite chair, and they show up to massage you and the blankets. Nursing kittens knead to stimulate their mother’s milk flow. Cats may also use the behavior to scent-mark a beloved human, create a comfy bed or express contentment. It’s a trait kittens carry into adulthood, notes the American Animal Hospital Association, often used to calm themselves during times of anxiety. In the cat world, kneading equals love and safety.

2. Presenting Their Tail

A cat showing their bottom to you feels like one of the least charming weird things cats do. This often happens when they leap into your lap for attention, pacing back and forth as you pet them. Instead of a face-to-face interaction, your kitty turns around and sticks their nether regions in your face. Gross!

Well, not to the cat. Scent rules the feline world: Cats identify each other by smell. Presenting the tail end first shows you your cat trusts you. That high-held tail position offers a friendly greeting. Does your pet consider you a fellow cat? No, but they’re communicating the way they would to other cats, Discovery explains. Consider it a friendly invitation for a “howdy” sniff. (You don’t have to accept the invitation, of course.)

Cats

3. Countertop Cruising

Cats love lounging on countertops, shelves and other second-story territories. The higher the perch, the better. That poses a hygiene and safety issue for cats who stroll across the stovetop. But you can’t stop this natural inclination.

Pet cats, though no longer wild, inherit the instinct to seek high ground, notes Feline Behavior Solutions. They’re hunters, sniffing out and stalking that tasty butter dish but also prey. Finding the highest ground in your house offers a nifty lookout, far from dog-sniffing and kid-poking range. Plus, it has the added perks of food rewards. To redirect your cat’s natural urge, put away tasty temptations, make counters unattractive and give your climbing kitty a cat tree or other perch higher than the counters.

4. Staring at Nothing

Cats tune in to their environment. They hear and see things people can’t, like that dust bunny floating through the air 30 feet away. It may freak you out to see your kitty sitting in a corner staring at something invisible, but rest assured, those feline eyes are trained on something important.

According to Cats Protection, cats hear things in the ultrasonic range that humans can’t. They also have an eight-octave hearing range, hearing higher and lower than many other mammals. We can’t know if they watch ghosts move across the room. But, more likely, your cat tracks the sound of insects behind the walls or mice in the ceiling.

Your cat also sees things differently than you, explains Live Science. Humans see light in a spectrum of colors from red to violet. But some animals (including cats) see the ultraviolet spectrum invisible to us, notes Live Science. Rodents use this ability to see and follow urine trails. We don’t know what cats see, but when they act as though something enthralls them, it might just be invisible.

5. Zoomies: Running Around the House

Zoomies could be the weirdest of the weird things cats do, and they do it a lot. One moment, they’re sitting there, quiet and unassuming. Then, they dart across the room at top speed to chase … nothing. Zoomies (properly known as Frenetic Random Activity Periods or FRAPS) can startle us, especially in the middle of the night. This normal cat behavior has several potential causes.

In most cases, zoomies express pent-up energy or counteract kitty boredom. Kittens and young adult cats indulge more often. Even older felines can burn up the house from time to time. According to Pet Health Network, other cats zoom after using the litter box because they feel so good after emptying, or they zoom when they experience discomfort eliminating.

Cats

6. Hiding in Boxes and Small Spaces

Have you ever wondered, “Why do cats love boxes?” Is there anything cuter than seeing an adorable face sticking out of a paper bag? Or finding your cat curled up in a tiny cardboard box that’s three times too small? Cats love seeking small hiding places. Although this behavior is endearing, it also makes cats feel safer. They seek comfort, security and warmth in spots that seem so odd to you, like a shoebox or the bathroom sink.

As predators, cats instinctively find hiding places from which to stalk prey. But as prey themselves, they also appreciate defensive hiding spots to stay safe. More than that, the swaddling effect that comforts human babies also benefits cats. They can create this hugging benefit by squeezing into boxes to calm their stress, explains Live Science.

These are only a few of the weird things cats do to bring love, fun and comfort into your world!

Source: Hill’s Pet Nutrition

Tips for Giving Your Cat Pills & Medications

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Cat

Tips for Giving Your Cat Pills & Medications

Being sick is no fun, especially when you have to take medicine in order to feel better. It’s no different for your furry friends. Whether for an illness or allergies, medicine for cats is sometimes required to improve their health.

Use these helpful tips on how to give your cat a pill to make the process less stressful for both of you, and help get her on her way back to feeling better.

Holding Your Cat

For some cats, simply being held can create stress. Approach your cat carefully, speaking to her in a gentle and soothing voice as you scoop her up. Wrap her in a towel or blanket, fully supporting her legs so they don’t dangle freely, which can make her feel uncomfortable and insecure, Marilyn Krieger shares with Petcha.

How to Give Your Cat a Pill

Medicine for cats usually comes in pill form. With medication in hand, keep this in mind: cats are smart creatures that don’t take kindly to changes in their routine, and they won’t make it easy on you. Unlike your dog, who will happily scarf a pill down in a spoonful of peanut butter, you’ll have to approach your cat in a calm but calculating way.

If you have a cooperative cat, try putting the pill directly in her mouth. Don’t toss the pill into her mouth because you run the risk of a choking hazard (or she’ll just spit it right back out at you). Instead, place it on the center of her tongue near the back of her mouth, then gently rub her throat to encourage the pill to go down, advises the ASPCA Pet Health Insurance. Offer her a fresh bowl of water to wash it down.

The “Meatball”

Another method for how to give your cat a pill requires a stealthier move than putting the medicine into her mouth. Start by hiding the pill in her usual food dish with her usual food. Wet or semi-moist cat food works best, but if your fur baby only eats kibble, you can give her the moist food when she takes the pill, making it an exciting treat.

Another is to hide the pill in a small ball of cat food. This game of hide-and-seek can be played with a pill hidden in her wet food that you form into a ball and present to your kitty as a fun snack.

If your cat refuses the pill in her food, you may be tempted to feed her people food, like tuna, to tempt her. However, many foods can cause gastrointestinal distress in cats. Always check with your veterinarian before giving non-pet food to your kitty.

Cat Food Gravy

If you’re looking for another option for how to give your cat a pill, you may be tempted to try crushing it into a powder form. But, as Animal Planet points out, “unless your vet recommends it, never crush or grind pills to put in food or water. Crushed medication can taste bitter, so your cat won’t get the full dosage.” Always get your vet’s express permission before administering medicine for cats this way.

You can crush the pill between two spoons or consider investing in a pill crusher/cutter at your local pharmacy. This tool makes crushing a little simpler and cleaner, as the medication is contained to the device.

Stir the crushed-up medication in a small portion of cat food gravy, which (hopefully) your kitty will lap up. The strong flavour of the gravy will tone down the gross taste of the pill. Never give your cat medication in milk, since many cats can’t digest dairy. If she refuses a spoonful of gravy, incorporate it into her regular food, either as a special topping for kibble or mixed with wet food.

Liquid Formula

When a cat refuses to take medication or if she can’t eat normally during her illness, the vet may prescribe the medicine in a liquid formula to be administered via syringe. Most forms of liquid medicine need to be kept refrigerated; however, cats are more likely to accept medicine that is at room temperature. Never microwave medication. You can warm it up by holding the syringe in your hand for a few minutes or submerging it in a cup of warm (not hot) water.

As noted earlier, hold your cat in a safe, comfortable way with the syringe in your dominant hand. Allow your kitty to lick the tip of the syringe so she can sample the medicine, then depress slowly on the plunger. Aim the stream of medicine toward the back of her throat, but be careful not to tilt her head back, warns Petful. This could cause her to inhale some of the liquid or choke.

Once the medicine is in her mouth, hold her mouth closed for a bit to make sure she swallows the liquid. Don’t worry if she spits out some of the medicine — it’s common. Even if some ends up on your lap, avoid remedicating her and wait until her next dosage is due.

Eye and Ear Drops

Sometimes, a cat needs to take eye or ear drops, particularly if she has allergies. Just as when you administer a pill or liquid formulas, you’ll need to hold your cat securely to administer them.

For eye drops, recommends Ernest Ward, DVM with the Newport Harbor Animal Hospital, place a hand on the top of the cat’s head (often best to come from above or below their head, rather than straight at their face so they don’t see it coming) “use the last two fingers of the same hand to pull back the upper eyelid. Place your remaining fingers under the cat’s jaw to support the head. The lower eyelid will act as a pouch to receive the drops.” Never touch the cat’s eye with the eye dropper or your fingers.

For ear drops, Dr. Ward says, “gently massage the base of the ear in a circular motion… You should hear a ‘squishing’ sound as you massage the medication deep into the ear canal.” Your cat won’t like either of these methods, but as with all medication for cats, it’s vital to her health

Injections

Certain illnesses, such as diabetes, require pet parents to inject medication under the skin. You’ll benefit from a second set of hands when giving shots, so enlist a helper to keep your pet in place with a towel or firm but gentle grip.

A cat can require a shot in the hip, neck or other site depending on the medication, so ask your vet to show you how and where you should give the injection. You will also need to know if the injection should go into a muscle, vein or a fold of skin. Always use a new needle for each dose and record the time and date of every shot.

After administering medication, give your kitty some extra snuggles. She also may want some alone time, so give her the time and space she needs if she wants to hide for a bit. Never throw a needle in the garbage when you’re finished. Dispose of it in an approved sharps container or bring it to your local pharmacy or veterinarian’s office.

If you suspect your cat is sick, first contact your vet to schedule a checkup and only give your pet the specific medicine prescribed by the doctor. You should never give your cat over-the-counter (OTC) medicines formulated for people (including eye drops), because many of these medications are hazardous to pets. These tips are intended to only be helpful thought starters. You should always have a conversation with your vet on the best course of action for administering medicine to your cat. Additionally, a thorough examination by a vet is the best course of action to correctly diagnose and treat your cat of any illnesses.

Whether it’s a short course of antibiotics or a lifelong means of managing a condition, medicine for cats is sometimes necessary. She may not thank you, but your kitty will be happy to be healthy!

Source: Hill’s Pet Nutrition