Whether you’re indulging in a summertime treat or creating the ultimate tropical fruit salad, pineapple is never a bad idea. Its tangy, refreshing taste complements many other flavors, and you can prepare it in a number of different ways. But while you’re chopping up your pineapple, there’s a good chance your food-motivated dog isn’t far away. After all, they may be hoping you’re cooking them a chicken dinner!

Before you toss your pup a piece of delicious pineapple, it’s only natural to wonder whether dogs can have this fruit to begin with. A few fruits are downright dangerous for dogs, including grapes, avocados, and pitted fruits, but can dogs have pineapple? Let’s find out.

Can dogs have pineapple?

You’ll be glad to know that dogs can have fresh pineapple in small quantities. Actually, there are many benefits to feeding furry friends this tropical fruit. Not only is it a delicious alternative for a dog treat, but it also contains several essential vitamins and minerals. Vitamin C, B-complex vitamins, potassium, iron, zinc, and magnesium can all be found in this summertime treat. As the canine experts at the AKC note, pineapple’s nutrients are important for a healthy digestive system and immune system.

However, not all pineapples get the green light for your dog’s consumption. It’s important to know that only fresh pineapple should be fed to dogs — not any pineapple cocktail or canned fruit. Prepared produce often contains lots of sugar, which is not healthy for any pet to eat. In fact, fresh pineapple contains sugar, too, which is one reason why it should only be a treat for dogs in moderation. Additionally, pineapple’s high fiber content can upset some dogs’ stomachs, while its acidity can wear down tooth enamel if consumed in large amounts.

How to prepare pineapple for dogs

When sharing a few bites of fresh pineapple with your pup, there are some more precautions to keep in mind. For example, make sure not to feed your dog either the spiny outer layer or the tough solid core of the fruit. Eating these pieces runs the risk of causing an intestinal blockage, so be sure to let your dog’s vet know if they do happen to steal the core, spines, or skin. You may have to bring them in for an exam, or your vet may advise you to wait and see.

Speaking of veterinarians, it’s also a good idea to check in with your dog’s doctor before any major diet changes. Because pineapple is high in sugar, it may not be recommended for dogs at risk of diabetes. Even if your dog gets the A-OK to eat pineapple, it’s best to start with a single bite-sized piece just to see how their stomach reacts. If they do well, you can try two pieces next time.

Just like when sharing any human food with your dog, make sure to cut pineapple into small enough pieces. This juicy treat could get messy, though, so finding a snacking spot that’s easy to clean is simply a bonus. Happy snacking!

If you’ve ever noticed those extra-long hairs on your dog’s face, it’s only normal to wonder what they are and what they do. Whether your buddy visits the groomer or gets their fur brushed at home, it’s hard not to notice these hairs. Dogs can turn away and even paw at their face when they’re touched, so they surely serve a purpose. As it turns out, they’re actually dogs’ whiskers! But why do dogs have whiskers?

These whiskers, or vibrissae, are important for the way dogs sense the world around them. They provide all kinds of sensory information through nerve endings under the skin, but how exactly do they work?

Do all dogs have whiskers?

Actually, yes! Although many dogs have whiskers that are much more prominent than those of other pups, all dogs naturally develop whiskers. However, they may not look the same on each dog, and some may no longer be there at all. If you take your dog to the groomer for a haircut on a regular basis, for example, their whiskers may be trimmed right along with the rest of their hair or fur.

It’s also important to consider that whiskers aren’t only the stiffer, prominent hairs on a dog’s snout or chin. When a dog has especially long eyelashes or eyebrow hairs, those are whiskers, too. A dog’s vibrissae are often located “above the eyes, on the chin, and above the upper lip,” according to Ryan Llera, BSc, DVM, and Lynn Buzhardt, DVM, from VCA Animal Hospitals.

Whiskers are some of the first hairs that grow when a puppy is born, and they can be straight or curly, depending on a dog’s genetics. Whatever these vibrissae look like, they are deeply rooted and thicker than the rest of your pet’s hair, allowing them to use whiskers as a way to pick up sensations from the world around them.

Why do dogs have whiskers?

When talking about human facial hair, “whiskers” refer to a man’s mustache or beard, but when talking about dogs, whiskers are more of an extension of the animal’s sense of touch. These long hairs contain deep blood vessels and nerve endings that pick up on the slightest movement or pressure, including the smallest, gentlest summer breeze.

Essentially, whiskers are to dogs what antennae are to insects. They allow dogs to learn more about their environment through touch, whether it’s detecting a nearby wall while walking in the dark or feeling the dust on an old surface. They can even help a dog decide when — and when not to — enter narrow spaces. Think of vibrissae as another layer of protection for the eyes and face.

Now that you know all these canine fun facts about the whiskers on their faces, you may think twice the next time you twirl or play with these long hairs. They’re quite sensitive. You can also make the best decisions at your dog’s grooming appointments, as trimming the whiskers isn’t always a great idea. Now you know!

If you ever notice your cat sleeping in an especially cute or odd-looking position, you’re not the only one. Most cats get comfy in unique ways — whether curled up on top of a laptop or stretched out on their back like a dog — but some feline sleeping positions are more difficult to understand than others.

For example, why do cats cover their face when they sleep? There are several noteworthy reasons, though it’s up to you to decipher which reason applies to your kitty. The good news is that none of these reasons are cause for worry unless, of course, there are other unusual behaviors or symptoms present. If this is the case, please consult your cat’s veterinarian instead!

If sleeping with their paws covering their face is all your feline friend is doing, all you need to do is keep an eye on them. If there is a minor problem going on, like seasonal allergies, you’ll be able to notice and help your cat sooner rather than later.

Sense of security and comfort

Think about the position you get into when you go to bed each night or even the position you wake up in the morning. You might be one of those people who sleeps like an angel with your arms by your side, but odds are, you move around a bit. Your arms might be up, you may have an extra pillow, or you may even use an eye mask to keep it dark while you sleep. In a way, cats do the same thing.

Some felines prefer a darker environment while curled up on their cat bed, so they’ll use their paws to cover their eyes. Resourceful, right? If this is the case, your kitty may put their paws down when the room gets darker, but others may be too deep asleep to notice.

For other cats that sleep a lot, having their paws on their face can just be comfortable. It can be a cozy alternative to having their paws hanging off the ledge of a cat tree, for example, or it could be a position that doesn’t aggravate the joints of old cats with arthritis.

The comfort that comes from paws on the face is a biological instinct. Years and years ago, wild cats might sleep this way as an extra layer of protection around the head in case of predators. A cat’s head is the most vulnerable part of their body, after all.

Staying warm

If your four-legged friend curls up and wraps their paws around their face more frequently in winter, they may be getting cold. Cats gain and lose body heat from their nose, and the tail or paws usually come in handy when warming a chilly nose. If you’ve ever pulled up the blankets to cover your nose on a cold winter night, you’ve been there, too.

When you suspect that your kitty may be feeling chilly, you can offer a blanket or warm the environment. Not many cats enjoy wearing sweaters, but this can be another smart solution for hairless cats and those extra vulnerable to the cold. If you live in a cold climate or have a cat that seems to thrive in warmth, you may want to invest in a heated cat bed to keep them comfy and cozy all year long.

Itching or grooming

Sometimes, your cat may just be very, very sleepy — so sleepy, in fact, that they can’t even finish grooming themself. It’s not unheard of for a feline to fall asleep mid-groom with their paws still on their face. When this happens, some fur may still be tousled and damp, and older cats may even let their tongue hang out. It can be a cute thing to witness, and it’s no reason to be concerned unless your cat seems tired to the point of lethargy.

Other times, your cat may fall asleep while itching their nose. This sounds adorable (and we’ll admit that it is), but it could be a sign of allergies or an illness, if you notice this behavior repeatedly. Cats with respiratory allergy symptoms may experience nasal discharge, watery eyes, constant sneezing, coughing, and even wheezing. Similarly to people, it’s much more common for a cat to have a chronic allergy problem with mild-to-moderate symptoms, but severe allergic reactions can occur.

Cats have several different kinds of allergies, including:

• Food allergies
• Flea allergies
• Atopic dermatitis (environmental)
• Allergic contact dermatitis
• Feline asthma (allergic bronchitis)
• Drug allergies

The treatment for your cat’s allergic reaction depends on the type of allergy, so it requires a vet visit and close observation. This is just one reason why it’s so important to know what’s “normal” for your cat — paws on the face while sleeping can indicate a number of different things, but mostly it’s nothing to worry about. It’s simply adorable!

Every dog owner will be embarrassed by their pup at least once or twice, but nothing compares to the shame of catching your dog in the act of humping. Whether they’re going to town on another dog, another person, or even nothing at all, it’s easy to understand why you’d want to learn more about this behavior. The sooner you know how to respond to this lewd act, the sooner it can stop.

Questions like, “Why do dogs hump?’ and “How can I stop my dog from humping?” will one day be nothing more than a memory. This impolite habit can be unlearned — though often not as quickly as it’s learned — with some time, redirection, and a few well-timed distractions. Keep on reading to learn more about the humping habit and what you can do to prevent it.

Why do dogs hump other dogs?

As many dog owners know, dogs can hump almost anything, from other dogs to inanimate objects. No matter what they’re mounting, though, you should know that this behavior means something different for dogs than what it signifies for humans. Most of the time, there’s nothing sexual about it.

When it comes to humping other dogs, explains Dr. Mary Burch, director of the AKC’s Canine Good Citizen program, dominance is often the motivator. This can be a one-sided display of dominance from one dog to another, or it can be a back-and-forth part of regular play. Even though it’s a normal canine behavior, not all dogs like to be humped, so this is a behavior best discouraged for dog owners who prefer to stay on the safe side.

Stopping your dog from mounting begins with your everyday obedience training. If your dog learns to respond to you immediately in virtually all other situations, odds are they will listen when you interrupt their impolite behavior. The more you redirect this behavior, the more your dog will learn that it’s not an acceptable thing to do.

Some dogs will take behavior corrections into their own paws, too. This is normal and nothing to worry about, so long as the corrections are not aggressive and the other party takes the hint.

Why do dogs hump legs?

Oftentimes, a dog won’t even mount another dog from behind. They may wrap around a pal’s leg while they go to town, or they may even find the leg of a person they’re fond of. What’s up with that?

As Dr. Burch explains, mounting can also be a sign of stress or overexcitement. It’s a physical manifestation of overstimulation at its finest, which is why it can happen suddenly as part of either play or anger. Just think about it this way: A dog has feelings so large that they don’t know what to do with it all. Odds are, they aren’t even thinking of who they’re mounting or how.

Why do dogs hump people?

As Dr. Burch said, dogs mount both people and dogs out of pure overstimulation, not desire. Although this behavior would mean something very different between people, it doesn’t mean much when a dog humps a person. They’re just worked up and excited.

Occasionally, a dog may hump in an attempt to get their owner’s attention. Because it works! Just about everyone gets distracted by a dog mounting their leg, even if only to shoo them away. For an attention-loving dog, that’s considered a win. If this is the case, the best thing you can do to discourage mounting is to ignore it. Reward your dog with attention after they’ve stopped humping to reinforce the correct behavior.

Why do dogs hump the air?

Sometimes, a dog may not even hump anything at all. They may grab onto a leg, another dog, or even a pillow without actually mounting it, which is most often seen when a dog has previously been punished for mounting but hasn’t completely stopped the behavior. This could be a sign that your corrections are working — so keep it up!

When humping could indicate a problem

If your dog begins mounting when they aren’t known for over-excitable reactions, you might want to keep an eye on the behavior. There are a few cases when humping could be a sign of a medical problem, including a prostate problem in males. Some kinds of skin irritation, urinary tract infections, or other discomfort can also cause a dog to mount in seek of symptom relief. In this case, humping may be less of a social behavior and something that happens much more suddenly.

If something about your dog’s behavior seems odd or changes suddenly, you may want to make an appointment with your dog’s veterinarian. Better safe than sorry, after all!

No matter how long you’ve been dealing with mounting, know that you can help your dog get rid of this shocking behavior for good. This change won’t happen overnight, but your days of dog park embarrassment will be behind you soon enough.

When dog owners are in the kitchen, it’s only normal to have an extra pair of eyes watching their every move. Furry friends are never far away when food is around, and it’s all too easy to toss your dog a table scrap their way when they look up with those pleading eyes. How could you say no?

Unless a dog is dealing with dietary restrictions or medical issues, the occasional bite of people food won’t hurt. Of course, it’s important to make sure that whatever you’re feeding them is safe for canine consumption, as so many dog owners go to the internet to double-check. That’s why you’re here!

If you’ve been wondering, “Can dogs eat shrimp?” — you’ve come to the right place. We’ll break down everything you need to know about feeding dogs shrimp so you can get back to cooking.

Can dogs eat shrimp?

Long story short: yes! When prepared correctly (more on that below), dogs can eat a small amount of cooked shrimp. Like with any food, there can be too much of a good thing, and it’s always best to start small — and even check in with your vet — before adding a new food to your dog’s diet.

Shellfish allergies in dogs don’t look like the scary, life-threatening anaphylactic reaction that can happen in people. With canines, food allergies typically happen after long-term exposure, but a bout of stomach upset isn’t out of the question. Whenever feeding your dog something new, be sure to watch out for any signs of canine intestinal upset.

Benefits of feeding your dog shrimp

There’s no doubt that shrimp is tasty, but did you know it could even have nutritional benefits for your dog? It’s true — shrimp is full of vitamin B3 (also known as niacin) and B12, which play important roles in the body’s most important functions. It also contains phosphorus, which is great for bone health, and it has brain-boosting antioxidants.

However, there are a few downsides to consider before feeding your dog shrimp. Even though it’s low in fat, calories, and carbs, shrimp is high in cholesterol. That’s why sticking to moderation is key, as high cholesterol in dogs can lead to a number of health concerns.

How to prepare shrimp for dogs

If you’re preparing shrimp at home and want to set a few aside for your dog, make sure the pieces are peeled, cleaned, and deveined. You can remove the tail of the shrimp before or after cooking, depending on what’s easiest for you, but make sure to remove them before feeding your pup.

Also, be sure NOT to feed your dog raw shrimp. There are a number of different bacteria in uncooked shrimp that could make your pup sick. If they do happen to get into raw shrimp, keep an eye out for symptoms of illness like vomiting and diarrhea. Be sure to contact your veterinarian if you notice these symptoms. When cooking shrimp for your dog, don’t use any oils, seasonings, or spices. Many of these ingredients can be unhealthy or harmful to canines, so stick to boiling, baking, grilling, or steaming.

With just a few precautions, you can safely include shrimp in your dog’s tool belt of treats. It’s a great ingredient to feed in moderation, whether as a dog treat or part of a meal, and odds are, your dog will find shrimp delicious, too!

Cats spend the majority of their time doing one of a few things: eating, resting, grooming, using the litter box, or causing havoc. Their routines can become predictable at times, so it’s not even worth a second glance when you catch your cat licking themselves as obviously — and loudly — as possible. Cats groom themselves all the time, after all, but when does licking become a bit too much?

Even though cat grooming is completely normal, if it becomes noticeably excessive, your kitty may be licking themselves — or even licking you — for another reason. Luckily, we can help you understand why cats lick themselves and how you can tell what may be going on. Here’s what you’ll want to know and what to look out for.

Is my cat grooming? When licking is normal

Most of the time, there’s nothing to worry about when your cat is licking themselves. This is a perfectly normal part of the feline grooming routine, and it happens from head to tail. It’s an easy and effective way to remove dirt, parasites, and dead skin cells from the coat, though it can also offer a satisfying, pleasurable feeling.

Some cats groom more frequently than others, but you can expect to catch your four-legged friend giving themselves a bath a few times a day at least. Veterinarian Pamela Perry from Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine explains that some felines spend up to 50% of their day grooming, though it is possible to have too much of a good thing.

Overgrooming can result in bald spots, tenderness, and obsession

When cats overgroom, they become obsessed with licking and other grooming behaviors, usually out of stress. This behavior can sometimes begin as a surface-level scratch or something itchy on the skin, but can grow into a bigger and bigger problem. In severe cases, an overgrooming cat can give themselves a bald spot and even abrade the skin with their rough tongue, putting themselves at risk for infection.

A cat that is overgrooming will constantly lick, though it can vary whether it focuses on one spot or licks from nose to tail. Keep an eye out for excess hair loss, more frequent hairballs, and even injuries on your cat’s skin. This can happen as a result of extreme stress or as a reaction to changes in the home, so this is an indicator that you may need to keep a closer eye on your feline friend.

Your cat may be licking themselves to soothe an itch

Because cats don’t have hands like people do, they have to find another way to scratch annoying itches. Paws may be able to help sometimes, but cats often use their sandpaper tongues to soothe itchy skin. If this is the case, your kitty will likely be licking one spot repeatedly — even obsessively. They may show other signs of discomfort, such as restlessness, skin redness, or moodiness, but the specifics will depend on what’s causing the itch in the first place.

Licking themselves can be a sign of dental disease

Occasionally, a cat’s frequent licking — especially on their face — can be a sign that their mouth is uncomfortable. Some cat owners and veterinarians have noticed cats licking their lips more frequently as dental disease progresses, possibly because of the excessive drooling that can occur.

This lip-licking behavior differs from normal lip-licking behavior after eating or drinking, and it may be accompanied by other signs of discomfort, like pawing at the face or refusing to eat. This is just another reason why it’s so important to stay on top of your pet’s dental health.

Cats may lick in an attempt to ease pain

If you notice your furry friend licking their leg repeatedly, for example, they may not be scratching an itch or cleaning themselves. Some cats groom themselves in an attempt to soothe an injury or wound, even though it’s more of a comfort measure than an actual treatment. In the case of a surface wound, however, licking can actually serve a purpose by helping to keep the injury clean.

As the veterinary experts with Petplan explain, almost any physical discomfort could result in licking: Your cat may bite at its tail when feeling itchy from worms, while it may lick its belly out of discomfort from a UTI. Any new or excessive licking is worth keeping an eye on, though don’t be afraid to visit the vet if the discomfort seems to continue.

Cat grooming can strengthen bonds and make them feel good

Sometimes, even extra licking isn’t anything to worry about. There are times when cats lick and groom themselves just because it feels nice to do. If you’ve ever brushed your hair and felt relaxed at the sensation, you’ll be able to relate. Grooming can be relaxing to a cat — whether they’re grooming themselves or a loved one – -and it’s not unusual for them to want to share the luxurious sensation.

Whether you always catch your cat grooming or have recently noticed this behavior, it’s worth keeping an eye on just so you can learn what’s normal for your pet. That way, you’ll be able to take action if this regular habit turns into something more.

If you’re considering opening up your home to a new four-legged family member, there may be a lot of thoughts swimming through your mind. This is totally normal. Bringing home a new pet is a big change, so it’s only natural (and responsible) to think through every aspect of the decision before you commit. One thing you may be considering is which dog breed would be best for your home. Although you may not be able to hand-pick your perfect breed when adopting a pet from a shelter, knowing a bit about the most common dog breeds can help you make an informed choice.

The Belgian Malinois is a breed often seen in cities, suburbs, and farms, though it’s often mistaken for an entirely different dog — the German shepherd. While they are related, these breeds are completely separate from one another. Familiarizing yourself with Belgian Malinois characteristics and traits will help you decide whether this may be a breed for your family, but first, we’ll have to ask — is a Belgian Malinois a good family dog?

Let’s find out everything there is to know about this strong and loyal dog breed.

Belgian Malinois breed characteristics

Belgian Malinois are large, high-energy dogs that make excellent companions and running partners. They stand about 24 to 26 inches tall when fully grown, and male Malinois can weigh over 80 pounds. Despite their intimidating size, though, these vigilant, eager dogs are also excellent with families and in homes. However, they are far too large and energetic to be apartment dogs.

“Mals” are known for their proud demeanor and eagerness to please, which makes them excellent for obedience training, agility, and other activities that combine physical and mental challenges. In fact, these dogs need activities and jobs in order to thrive in any home, or you could be dealing with a lot of behavior issues. You can expect to exercise an adult Malinois for at least an hour each day.

According to the American Kennel Club, this is a relatively healthy dog breed, though large dogs can be at risk for hip dysplasia. Like any dog, they require regular brushing, veterinary checkups, and dental care, though, due to their bigger size, you may spend more time on coat and nail care.

Belgian Malinois compared to German shepherds

While it’s safe to say that this breed is quite similar to the German shepherd — they’re both members of the Herding Group, after all — there are plenty of characteristics that help Malinois stand out. When looking at the dogs side by side, for example, you’ll see that the Malinois ears are more pointy and triangle-shaped than German shepherds’. Malinois are also lighter than German shepherds and tend to have a more square-shaped body.

When it comes to behaviors, though, these dogs have more in common than they do differences. It’s easy to see why they are commonly mistaken for one another, especially when they share similar lines of work. From herding on farms to working with police officers — these dogs can do it all.

Is a Belgian Malinois a good family dog?

The Belgian Malinois is one of four sheep-herding dogs developed in Belgium to be protectors of farms, flocks, and families. They immediately gained popularity because of their loyalty and love of work, later becoming popular companion dogs for military and police officers. In fact, it was Cairo, a Belgian Malinois, that “played a critical role in the 2011 raid that took down the world’s most notorious terrorist, Osama Bin Laden.” Now that’s impressive!

Despite their “tough guy” appearance, these dogs love to use their bravery, strength, and loyalty to keep their homes and families safe. Many Mals will take on a watchdog role, whether you train them to or not, but it’s important to keep them socialized and trained to avoid unwanted aggression or alerting toward guests. Remember, these dogs were bred to herd sheep, so they can sometimes chase, herd, and nip at the legs of other animals and small kids. This is normal canine behavior, but dogs can be less likely to act on these impulses if they are mentally and physically satisfied.

When your Malinois isn’t getting in a workout or finishing a job, they will likely want to be by your side. Their loyal personalities let them bond deeply with members of their pack, so don’t be surprised if you have to buy a dog bed for each room of the house. They may follow one special person from room to room, or they may try to herd everyone back to the same room so their pack can be protected in one place.

Belgian Malinois are some of the most hardworking dogs out there, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be great family dogs, too. An active family with a large home and yard will be the best fit for this breed of dog, though an older Mal may enjoy a more leisurely life, too. Every dog is different, so breed standards and expectations will only get you so far!

Think of the last time you smelled something foul. How did you react? If you’re truly made of steel, you may not have reacted at all, but for most people, it’s impossible not to flare your nostrils at least. You may have even made a face! All of these reactions are perfectly natural, though humans aren’t the only species that reacts to smells, both good and bad. Even your cuddly cat sniffs out the world around them sometimes,

If you’ve ever noticed your cat reacting to a smell, you’re not alone. Some folks have even noticed their cat opening their mouth — and even sticking out their tongue — while smelling, but it’s not so clear what this means. Is this a reaction to a scent, or is it just a way to get an extra thorough sniff? Whatever it may be, we’re here to find out.

Needless to say, you’re not alone if you’re wondering, “Why do cats open their mouths when they smell?” We’ve scoured trusted sources to find out, and this is what we know.

Why do cats open their mouths when they smell?

Watching your curious cat open their mouth in a kind of sneer while they get a good sniff of something can raise a lot of questions — it’s understandable. When people do this, it’s usually a response to an unpleasant smell, but when cats do this, they’re actually trying to get a better understanding of the scent in the air.

This is called the Flehmen response. Many cats involuntarily have this response when exposed to certain intriguing scents, though cats aren’t the only species that do this. Big cat species like lions and tigers do this, too, according to the animal experts at PetMD, as do horses, sheep, goats, and even dogs. Rhinos, llamas, giraffes, and other exotic animals have been seen performing this behavior, too.

What is the Flehmen response?

Although it seems like a cat opens their mouth as part of a facial expression, it actually has a physical purpose. Cats have an organ between the nasal cavity and the roof of the mouth called the vomeronasal organ, or Jacobson’s organ, which processes the hormones and pheromones contained within a scent. Veterinarian Krista Seraydar describes this process as “a combination of taste and smell.” Cats access this response by letting air — and its scent — pass through the mouth and into the opening of the Jacobson’s organ. So that’s why your cat is sitting next to that stinky sock with their mouth hanging open.

You might see your feline friend curling their upper lip, extending their neck, and holding their head high in the air. They may even bare their front teeth. In most cases, a cat may stay in this mouth-open position for a few seconds while they process the smell, but don’t be surprised if your kitty takes a little bit longer sometimes. They may appear to be panting, sneering, or even sneezing, but rest assured, this is all perfectly normal.

Why do cats react with the Flehmen response?

Although it may seem like cats choose random times to process their surroundings’ scents and pheromones, the simple truth is that some scents just don’t trigger this response. According to Dr. Seraydar, the most common triggers of the Flehmen response in domestic cats include:

• Urine
• Dirty laundry
• Anal gland secretions
• Pheromones from other cats
• New scents
• Anything intriguing

While this is typically used among male cats to detect females in heat, cats of any gender can use this response to explore any scent. Maybe they’re trying to get a good whiff of your friend’s cat whose scent is on your pants, or maybe they won’t leave your suitcase alone after traveling somewhere new. Your kitty could be exploring just about any scent.

And just to be clear, their facial expressions don’t mean that your cat finds these scents stinky or gross. That’s just the way their face moves to let the air into the Jacobson’s gland. So there’s no need to be offended if your kitty seems to sneer at you after giving you a sniff, we promise.

When your cat’s open mouth may be a problem

Although the Flehmen response is totally normal among felines, there are times when a cat’s open mouth could actually be an indicator of a problem. When smelling, a cat’s mouth will stay open for a few seconds, but if their mouth stays open for a long time, keep an eye on your pet. If you notice anything like erratic breathing or panting, something may be going on.

As Greencross Vets reminds readers, cats only pant when they are very hot, very stressed, or fighting an illness. Some amount of open-mouth breathing is normal when a feline is exercising or has just been outside in warm weather, for example, but continuous feline panting is worth a closer look. Greencross Vets recommends checking your kitty’s gums for a healthy pink color. If you see pale, white, gray, or even blue gums, take your furry friend to the vet immediately.

For the most part, a cat smelling with their mouth open is completely normal. In fact, it’s rather helpful, too. Felines can learn a lot from the pheromones and hormones hidden within a scent, so don’t be concerned if you see your cat making a “stinky” face every now and again.

Even if you’ve never been around dogs or cats, you’ve probably heard about their rough relationship. Cats and dogs are rivals at best and enemies at worst — right? It sure seems that way when there are thousands of stories and even videos of dogs and cats not getting along. Whether you’ve witnessed a dog-cat chase with your own eyes or have heard your pup barking at the neighbor’s cat at all times of the day, it’s only natural to wonder, “Why do dogs hate cats?”

Some dogs couldn’t care less if a feline friend stopped by for a visit — that’s true — but plenty of other pups would go positively bananas. So what’s the difference?

Why do dogs hate cats?

While it’s easy to assume that dogs and cats “hate” one another because of their vast differences, it’s a bit more complicated than that. Even dogs that regularly chase cats don’t do so out of malice or hate. It’s an instinctual thing!

Even though your pup isn’t hunting for their food like their ancestors used to do, that prey drive in their brain may still kick into gear when they see a fast-moving target like a cat, squirrel, or even a toy. And if the cat runs away from your dog, your buddy just might keep chasing them.

When all of this chaos happens in a span of a few seconds, it’s easy to interpret it as your dog’s dislike for felines. But in reality, they are just reacting to the presence of potential prey. And don’t worry, this doesn’t mean they actually want to hurt or hunt the cat. It’s an unconscious reaction that happens deep within their brain and not something they choose to do.

If a cat and a dog have a history of unpleasant interactions, it makes sense why both animals would become untrustworthy of the other species. This is why it’s worth paying closer attention if your pet suddenly starts reacting negatively to animals they previously tolerated.

Different species have different communication

Additionally, cats and dogs just don’t understand one another the way they understand their own species. They have different ways of communicating and interacting, so misunderstandings and accidental boundary crossings can happen. For example, a wagging tail on a dog is often a sign of curiosity and happiness, but on a cat, tail movement means something else entirely. A cat with a twitching tail isn’t a happy cat, but this could be easily misinterpreted.

Fortunately, with a little bit of patience, time, and supervision, dogs can often get along just fine with their feline siblings. For some animals, interspecies friendships come naturally, but it’s OK if it takes time for your pets to learn how one another operates. At the same time, don’t force dogs or cats to be around other animals if they seem nervous or distressed. Some pets are best as the only fur baby in the home – -and that’s OK, too! As long as you know what works best for you and your home, you can take all the time you need to make sure everyone feels comfortable and safe. Good luck!

Whether you’re considering bringing home a Siberian husky or you’re just a fan of this majestic breed, it’s important to educate yourself about all aspects of their life, including their health. After all, no dog is invincible when it comes to injury and illness. Even though no one can completely predict what a dog’s health will look like in the future, a dog’s breed can make them more predisposed to certain conditions. A little bit of knowledge can help owners choose which preventative measures they may want to take, and it can ultimately help keep a dog healthy in the long run.

Huskies may be known as a noisy and athletic Northern breed, but even they are predisposed to a few health concerns. These are the kinds of symptoms husky owners should keep an eye out for because when you know what to look for, you’re much more likely to catch it early when it’s treatable.

Cataracts

Some health problems, like cataracts, can potentially be eliminated from the breed by the use of responsible breeding only. Cataracts are thought to be genetic, meaning that a dog has the chance of developing them if one or both of their parents also did, though they can sometimes be corrected via surgery. Huskies with blue eyes may be more likely to develop cataracts.

This condition occurs when the lens of the eye begins to harden, limiting vision and creating a milky white appearance on the surface of the eye. Cataracts can range in severity from inconvenient to blinding, and no two dogs’ cataracts will progress at the same rate. Huskies with this genetic condition can begin to experience vision loss as young as 3 months old, according to Tiffany Paul, DVM, but a visit to the veterinarian can help owners determine the best course of action moving forward.

Progressive retinal atrophy

This is the name for a group of genetic disorders that affect the eyes, starting with night blindness and difficulty seeing in low light. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (or PRA) typically results in blindness within one to two years of when the symptoms begin, notes veterinarian Jamie Case, and there is currently no known cure. Some dogs’ disease will progress faster than others, of course, but it occurs when the eye’s retina begins to weaken. This can happen shortly after birth or later in life, but both early-onset and late-onset variations are thought to be “sex-linked” and more common in male huskies.

Cataracts can actually be a symptom of PRA, but any sign of vision changes in your husky should warrant a visit to the veterinarian. Remember- that eye care for dogs is important, too!

Hip dysplasia and arthritis

Like many larger dog breeds, Siberian huskies can be prone to joint issues like arthritis and hip dysplasia. A dog’s activity level throughout life does not necessarily affect their likelihood of developing these disorders, though keeping your husky at a healthy weight can reduce unnecessary stress on their joints as they age.

Hip dysplasia occurs when a dog’s hip joint doesn’t properly develop, resulting in a loose, weak joint. Dogs with hip dysplasia may struggle with mobility, such as sitting down, standing up, or even going to the bathroom. In more severe cases, you might see your dog’s back legs collapse. The Siberian Husky Club of America recommends that all huskies receive a hip evaluation from a licensed veterinarian to help owners identify any potential problems while the dog is young.

Urinary stones

The University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine discovered that Siberian huskies are more likely to develop urinary stones, and it even identified the gene behind this disorder. Because of a mutation in a “uric acid transporter gene” called SLC2A9, some dogs may develop higher concentrations of uric acid in their urine. This combination results in urinary stones, which may appear as blood in the urine or difficulty urinating.

Neurological disorders

That same College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Minnesota found that Siberian huskies, like several other dog breeds, can be at risk for neurological disorders at birth. While any dog has the potential to develop Shaking Puppy Syndrome (the name given to this group of disorders), researchers have found the gene responsible for huskies’ slight predisposition to Shaking Puppy Syndrome, Type 1.

This is a genetic complication that can occur because of random mutations or irresponsible breeding, and it’s only one reason why all potential breeding dogs should be genetically tested beforehand. Sadly, Shaking Puppy Syndrome, Type 1, often results in sudden death at a young age, so there are plenty of reasons to test for this before breeding.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism happens when a dog’s thyroid produces less of its thyroid hormone than it’s supposed to. This slows down a dog’s metabolism, according to PetMD, and can result in a number of subtle yet certain symptoms.

This endocrine disease is not unique to Siberian huskies, though, but it’s more commonly seen in medium and large breeds. Many dogs develop it around middle age, and it usually results in weight gain, hair loss, reduced activity, and a course fur texture. Hypothyroidism can be treated, so don’t hesitate to call your dog’s vet if you notice any change in their normal appearance, activity, or behavior.

Even though Siberian huskies are predisposed to these canine health concerns, it doesn’t mean that every husky is going to develop them. In reality, many Siberian huskies live long, healthy, and happy lives thanks to regular veterinary visits and consistent care. Keeping these concerns in mind is all you need to do if you have (or want to have) a husky because your watchful eye could catch a problem before it becomes severe.