Benefits of dogs and cats for seniors
More and more people are discovering how powerful the bond between animals and seniors can be. As we age, it’s common to face health challenges and a shrinking social circle — factors that often lead to loneliness. In fact, the National Institute on Aging states that older adults are especially vulnerable to social isolation. The companionship of a dog or cat, however, can significantly enrich a senior’s life, offering comfort, connection, and a renewed sense of purpose. One of the benefits of dogs and cats for seniors is...
Why orange cats are usually male
Have you ever wondered why orange cats are usually male? And why calicos and tortoiseshells are female? For decades, scientists at leading universities have explored why cat fur color is linked to sex. Now, building on past work, researchers at Stanford University and Kyushu University have each conducted independent studies and found a definitive answer. It all has to do with a long-posited but elusive genetic mutation – a DNA deletion near a gene called ARHGAP36. This mutation causes pigment cells to produce a ginger hue....
Are dogs replacing children?
Are dogs replacing children in modern society? In many countries, the number of dogs has surged so dramatically that it now surpasses the number of children. Some view this as a clear sign people are choosing dogs over parenthood. But researchers remain uncertain — deeper social and cultural factors may be driving the trend. Professor Enikő Kubinyi, who leads the Department of Ethology at Eötvös Loránd University, recently proposed a groundbreaking theory, published in the journal Current Directions in...
Your Cat’s Not Obese—It’s Called Primordial Pouch
Have you ever noticed your cat has what looks like a saggy belly that swings when they walk? Don’t worry – your feline friend hasn’t gained weight overnight! What you’re seeing is called a primordial pouch, and it’s completely normal. What Exactly is a Primordial Pouch? The primordial pouch is a flap of loose skin and fat that hangs along your cat’s belly, typically between their hind legs. This natural feature appears in both male and female cats, regardless of whether they’ve been spayed or...
Your roadmap to get every cat to where they need to go
Do you want to streamline pathway planning to find the best available outcome for every cat and kitten at your organization? Look no further than Cat Superhighway, a free self-paced course on Maddie’s® University. This course equips animal shelter professionals with the tools to implement or enhance pathway planning for cats and kittens, streamlining their journey to the best possible outcome. Cat Superhighway presents research-backed strategies to reduce length of stay, decrease intake and ensure positive outcomes for all cats....
Brachycephalic dog health problems
Learn about common brachycephalic dog health problems — like breathing issues, allergies, and heat sensitivity — and how to care for your flat-faced pup. French Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boston Terriers have a lot in common. They have hearts of gold and some of the best personalities on earth. These breeds, and those like them, are truly our best friends. But they have something else in common. They’re brachycephalic, which means they’re prone to certain health issues. Let’s look at brachycephalic dog health problems,...
Signs your cat is in pain
Cats are masters at hiding discomfort. This guide breaks down subtle behavioral and physical signs your cat might show when he’s in pain. Cats are experts at concealing pain and discomfort. Their wild ancestors passed down this trait as a survival mechanism. But as our cats’ caretakers, we must learn to distinguish between subtle signs of pain and normal feline behavior. Knowing the signs your cat is in pain helps ensure his health, well-being, and quality of life. Behavioral changes that could signal pain in your cat When...
How to improve senior dog mobility
Help your senior dog stay active and comfortable with six ways to improve her mobility. Explore everything from weight management to pain control and more. Dogs slow down as they age, just like us. But age itself isn’t a disease — it’s just a life stage. The good news? There’s a lot we can do to help our senior dogs stay mobile, comfortable, and happy. Here are six effective ways to improve senior dog mobility. Manage your dog’s weight If you do only one thing to support your senior dog, make it this: help...
The Alzheimer’s Disease of Cats: Feline Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome
Feline Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS) aka Feline Dementia affects many older cats, similar to Alzheimer’s disease in humans. Dementia is a general term for symptoms like memory loss and impaired thinking, while Alzheimer’s is a specific disease that causes dementia and is its most common form. Feline CDS is a brain disorder that leads to gradual cognitive decline. Knowing the signs of CDS and how to help your feline friend can significantly improve their quality of life. What Causes CDS? CDS occurs when harmful proteins,...
AI in dog care
How artificial intelligence is reshaping dog care through smart training tools, health apps, translator tech, and more. Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming how we care for our dogs — enhancing training, health monitoring, communication, and more. From smart apps to AI-powered behavior tools, technology for canine health and well-being helps us better understand and meet our canine companions’ needs. Let’s examine AI in dog care, and how it’s changing the way we understand and look after our dogs. ...
