Got a dog that chews everything in sight the second you turn your back? From shoes to table legs—and let’s not even talk about the remote—boredom, teething, or plain old puppy energy can turn even the sweetest dog into a one-dog demolition crew. It’s frustrating, expensive, and let’s be honest… not great for your relationship with your favorite furry roommate.
That’s where Bully Sticks come in. These things are a total lifesaver. Made from a single, all-natural ingredient (beef muscle), they’re fully digestible, packed with protein, and free from weird fillers or artificial junk. Dogs love the taste, and you’ll love how long they last. Whether you’ve got a heavy-duty chewer or a nervous pup who just needs something to focus on, bully sticks keep them busy, happy, and far away from your furniture.
Even better? They’re a healthier alternative to rawhide, which can be tough on sensitive stomachs and sometimes loaded with chemicals. Bully sticks are gentler, safer, and way easier on digestion—so you can feel good about handing one over.
If you’re looking for a simple and affordable way to curb destructive chewing and provide your dog with a satisfying outlet, bully sticks are a small upgrade that makes a big difference. Keep a few on hand, and you’ll always be ready for those high-energy moments. Trust me—your shoes (and your sanity) will thank you.
If your dog’s chewing habits are driving you a little nuts, you’re definitely not alone. Bully sticks have been a game changer for me—simple, affordable, and actually effective. They’re an easy win to keep on hand, especially when your pup needs a little distraction (or you need a moment of peace). Try it for yourself and see how much calmer—and quieter—your day gets!
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Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
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You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
As the weather warms up, people start to think about chicks. They are available for sale at all local feed mills, including Tractor Supply and Rural King. Their cuteness can be hard to resist!
That being said, you can’t just walk into a store and come out with chicks. You have to have the right setup in order to get the eggs that you are going to want.
Here are some tips for raising chicks into full-grown chickens.
One of the most important aspects of raising chicks is ensuring they are warm enough.
Baby chicks are born without feathers, which makes it hard for them to regulate their body heat.
They make multiple sizes, so whether you have a small brooder or a larger one, there should be one that is the perfect size!
Make sure that your chicks have plenty of fresh water.
There are numerous attractive waterers available on the market. The ones that work best allow many chicks to get water at the same time, without too much crowding. You may also want to use one that isn’t too deep, so that your chicks don’t drown in the water. If you have multiple chicks, you may want to use several waterers in the brooder.
And buy high-quality food.
Most chicks are started out on a “chick-starter,” which is a blend of grains and supplements that are easily digested by chicks. Though you may be able to make your own chick starter, it is often easier to buy the commercial stuff to make sure that your chicks get everything that they need.
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Though you may want to feed all your chickens and chicks the same thing, you can’t feed chicks feed that is designed for laying hens, because this has too much calcium for them.
Then, all you have to do is keep them clean!
Chicks can be very messy. They poop all over their brooder, multiple times a day. As they get their wings, they may even perch above their feeder and waterers, pooping in them. They throw their bedding around, so it’s essential to clean the water daily.
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That being said, raising chicks can be a very rewarding project for your family. Chicks who are raised by a family are more likely to be friendly. As they grow, they may learn to run toward you when you call. Some even like to be held!
So, make sure that you keep them warm and dry. You are going to want to either use a heat lamp, or a heat plate (which is a little safer.) Take care of the waterers and refill the feeders every day. Before you know it, your chicks will turn into adults and be happy to give you lots of eggs!
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You also need to think about the future, when they are adult hens. You are going to need a good chicken coop.
My dream chicken coop is an Omlet! These plastic coops with fencing are easy to clean and move, so your chickens can have fresh grass every day!
If you can’t afford an Omlet, you may want to look at their automatic doors for your chicken coop. This will ensure that your chickens get put away every night, and you don’t have to worry about predators getting them.
Chickens need enrichment to have a good life. If you are looking for quality accessories for your chickens, you should check these out.
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Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
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You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
I recently wrote an article about getting a new puppy or dog for your family. If you haven’t had a chance to read it, you can check it out below.
Now that you have a new puppy or dog, you are going to want to make sure that your children (and puppy or dog) are safe around each other. Though they can be great friends, the truth is, according to the CDC, most dog bites are with children who are under nine years old!
Though that may surprise you, the truth is that young children can be quite impulsive. They are just so excited about seeing a dog, they may push them past its limits. They may run over squealing and making other loud noises, which can really scare dogs, even the ones that aren’t too nervous.
With that being said, you can help your children have a great friendship with your new puppy or dog. Here are some tips to help.
You are going to want to give your dog his or her own space.
Just like your child has his or her own room, you are going to want to give your dog some personal space, too! While your dogs don’t need their own room, you may want to have a crate that they can get into when they need to get away. Even if they have a safe area in your living room, that might be enough, too!
You also have to know your children.
If your children are young, remember that they may not always know the right way to treat their new puppy or dog. They are often impulsive, which can lead to problems between them and your new puppy or dog.
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If your children are older, they may not be as excited about their new puppy or dog. They may not overwhelm them by hugging and loving on them, but they may not be as accepting of their new puppy or dog as you would hope.
Because of this, you need to really watch your children and your new puppy or dog at all times!
You can’t just be in the room with them as they interact. You need to really watch them together. If you are on your phone, you won’t be able to see what’s going on.
Always remember that you are the only one who is responsible for both your children and your new puppy or dog.
By observing the interactions between your children and your new puppy or dog, you can ensure that everyone remains safe.
If you notice that your children aren’t treating the new puppy or dog with respect, you can talk to them about what they should be doing instead. You may also notice that your new puppy or dog is getting overwhelmed, and it’s time to separate your children from them.
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Though this may seem like this will take a lot of your time, the truth is that it will be worth it when you see the relationship blossom between your children and their new puppy or dog. One of the most essential things that you can do is choose the right dog for your family.
Then, ensure that both your children and your new puppy or dog have safe spaces where they can retreat if they need to be alone. This may be a room for your children and a crate for your new puppy or dog. A special corner may also be used for your new puppy or dog.
You also need to know your children and the stage that they are in. Are they going to be in your new puppy’s or dog’s face, or are they more likely to get mad if the new puppy or dog is in their way? Then, take the time to observe how they interact. You are the only one responsible for what happens between them.
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Dogo App
If you are struggling with your dog, you may want to check out Dogo’s tailored training programs. After taking a survey, you will receive a customized training plan for you and your dog. They also offer courses for your new dog, no biting, potty training, basic obedience, tricks, and more!
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Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
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You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
If you have recently lost a pet, whether you had to make the decision or not, the truth is that it can be very hard on you. In fact, I recently wrote an article about dealing with your own grief after the loss of your pet, Are You Struggling with the Loss of Your Pet? If you want to, you can read it right here.
That being said, your animals may also be grieving. To effectively help them, you need to know the specific signs to look for.
Here are some signs that your pet may also be grieving.
Changes in their personalities.
Many pets form a strong bond with their owners and each other after one of their family members passes away. Others may become quieter and disinterested in things that used to interest them.
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You may find that one of your pets spends more time sleeping than he or she used to. Others show signs of anxiety, pacing around the house, hiding, or just looking like they are sulking.
You may have to watch out for destructive behaviors. Some cats and dogs will start tearing up things in order to get your attention.
Changes in grooming.
You may notice that your pets may not be grooming themselves as much as they normally do. Some cats may get rather matted quickly if they stop grooming themselves altogether.
Changes in bathroom habits.
Your cat may miss the litter box due to anxiety and depression following the loss of a friend. Dogs may have accidents in the house for the same reason.
Changes in their appetite.
Many pets don’t have as much of an appetite when they are grieving. Just like people, some pets get depressed enough that they just aren’t interested in eating as well as they used to.
If your deceased pet was the one who controlled the others, you might see this even more. If your pets were used to eating only when they ate, they may still be waiting for their friend to eat first. These pets are often unsure about what to do without their guidance.
Changes in vocalization.
You may notice that your normally quiet dog starts barking excessively. If your dog is normally vocal, you may also notice that they are quieter than usual.
The same goes with cats. Some cats seem to be meowing and trying to find their lost friend, while others get abnormally quiet.
Looking around.
You may also notice that your pets may continue to look around for their friend. They may visit their favorite spots multiple times a day, simply trying to figure out where their friend is. They may even take to sleeping in their spot, as if they are waiting for them to come home.
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Although you may be grieving the loss of your pet, you also need to consider your other pets. They may also be dealing with their own grief in their own way. And just like people, it is different for everyone.
You may notice that your pets’ behavior changes. While he or she used to love to sit on your lap, your pet may be too preoccupied looking for their friend to do so. One of your other pets may cling to you or your other pets, seeking comfort.
Some become very anxious, vocalizing more than normal, while others spend more time sleeping. Some pets have accidents in the house (or outside their litter box) as a sign of grief and stress. You may even notice that they aren’t eating as well as they used to! They may even spend a lot of time waiting for their lost friend to come home.
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Please note, the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
Adding a new furry family member is a significant decision. While many people believe that rescuing a dog is the way to go, just as many people go to breeders and pet shops when it is time to get their next dog.
Many people are seeking a specific breed of dog, believing they can only obtain one through a breeder. Others want a puppy, instead of an older dog, so that it can grow up with their children.
However, the truth is that dogs of all ages are looking for a forever home and are often in need of rescue. The same can be said about the breed. Dogs of all breeds (purebred and mutts) need homes. There are local SPCA’s and Animal Rescues overflowing with dogs. There are also breed-specific rescues available if you prefer to adopt a specific breed.
There are so many reasons that you need to get a rescue dog today!
Getting a rescue dog saves their lives!
Many dogs are euthanized each year because shelters and rescues are overflowing with dogs. Often, there is nothing wrong with the dogs other than the fact that nobody wants them. So, save a dog today!
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When you rescue a dog, you are not supporting puppy mills.
Puppy mills contribute to the problem of dog overpopulation. Buying puppies only encourages breeders to breed their dogs more, so they can produce more puppies and earn more money. By rescuing your next dog, you are saving one without supporting breeders.
Unless you get a puppy, you do not have to deal with the puppy stage.
You might get a dog that is already socialized and potty-trained. They might already be used to children of all ages. Many of the dogs have basic manners when you receive them, depending on how the previous owner treated them. You may find yourself with a perfect, well-trained dog!
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Training can go a little easier, especially when it has already begun.
If someone has already started training, it makes the whole process a little easier. Potty training and leash walking might be within reach (and soon)! Some even come to you already going outside when they need to go to the bathroom.
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If you want to unleash your rescue dog’s potential, you may want to check out Dogo’s tailored training programs. After taking a survey, you will receive a customized training plan for you and your dog. They also offer courses for your new dog, no biting, potty training, basic obedience, tricks, and more!
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Rescue dogs are cheaper than puppies.
Even with cheaper fees than purebred puppies, rescue dogs are often spayed or neutered. They are usually up-to-date on their vaccines, which also saves you some money on vet bills.
When you get a puppy, you have to sign up for several vet visits to make sure that your new dog is up-to-date on all of his or her shots. Then, you need to spay or neuter him or her, which could cost you a few hundred dollars.
Rescue dogs often form strong bonds with their new owners.
Often, neglected dogs are so overjoyed at finding a home and people who love them that they attach to them quickly. They typically love to follow them around and spend time with them. They can make the best and happiest pets!
Often, unless you get a puppy, you will know what kind of personality your dog has.
With puppies, you can’t guarantee what your adult dog will act like. Instead, when you rescue an older dog, he already has a personality and way of behaving. You can decide precisely what you want in a dog and find one that matches your needs.
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Rescuing a dog can be beneficial for many reasons. You can decide what traits you want in a dog and find one that matches them. You do not have to deal with the messy puppy stage (unless you want one)! The dogs will also come to you fully vaccinated and fixed. They will have some basic training and socialization.
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Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
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Please note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
We love our dogs, but the nonstop barking? Not so much. Whether they’re sounding the alarm at every passing car, barking at the wind, or just won’t stop when the doorbell rings, it can get frustrating fast. Not to mention, the neighbors probably aren’t thrilled either.
If your dog is a bit too vocal, the good news is there are some helpful tools out there that can make a big difference without being harsh or uncomfortable. Here are three pet-parent-friendly options that can help bring some peace and quiet back to your home:
Anti-Bark Training Devices (No Shock!) There are some great no-shock bark deterrents that use sound, vibration, or citronella spray to gently discourage barking. Many are automatic and activate only when your dog barks, helping them learn that they need to be quiet. Just make sure to look for ones that are humane, adjustable, and vet-approved.
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Calming Chews or Supplements If your dog barks because they’re anxious or easily overstimulated, calming treats might help. They’re made with natural ingredients like chamomile, L-theanine, or melatonin, and can take the edge off without making your dog drowsy. They’re especially handy during high-trigger times like thunderstorms, fireworks, or visitors.
Bored dogs bark more—plain and simple. A mentally stimulating toy can keep your dog engaged and less focused on barking at every little thing. Puzzle feeders, treat-dispensing balls, or even a long-lasting chew can work wonders to redirect their energy.
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There’s no one-size-fits-all fix when it comes to barking, but trying a mix of tools and training can really help tone things down. Start with one of these suggestions and see what works for your pup—and your sanity.
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Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
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You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
When you decide that it is the right time to bring home a new puppy or dog for your family, it can be an overwhelming time, especially when you start looking at all the breeds that are out there! You also need to think about whether you want to start with a puppy or get a dog that is older. You may be able to find a dog that is already potty-trained and ready to join your family.
So, how can you choose the right dog for your family? Here are some tips to help.
Think about the care required.
Are you and your family ready for a puppy? Do you have time to potty-train a young puppy? Would you prefer an older dog (maybe one or two years old) that is already potty-trained and knows what is expected of him or her? Maybe you would prefer an older dog who just wants to enjoy life and lie around the house.
You also need to consider the needs of the dog you are choosing.
Dogs have different needs. Consider how much food they will be eating. A Great Dane will go through a huge bag of food in a matter of days, while a ten-pound dog may only go through a small bag a month.
Consider the grooming your dog will require.
Many dogs require a visit to the groomer every six to eight weeks, which can be a significant expense when you are counting every dollar you spend.
It helps to figure out who is going to be doing what when it comes to the new dog.
If you get a puppy, who will be in charge of training and socialization? Every dog needs to be fed and watered on a regular basis. Then, they will need to be taken for walks multiple times a day. Playtime is also essential for any dog. Even if you have a fenced-in yard, your new dog will need to be taken care of multiple times a day.
Size is also important.
Though you may not want a large breed dog around your small children, a tiny dog might be too fragile for your energetic bunch! If one of your children falls on your little puppy, broken bones might happen.
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You also need to think about the size of your house and yard. If you live in a small apartment, you aren’t going to want to get a large-breed dog. There isn’t enough room! A smaller dog will have plenty of room to play in your small living room. If you have a few acres fenced in, consider getting a dog that loves to run and play outside.
You can’t forget about their energy level!
Certain dog breeds are more active than others. You aren’t going to want to get a herding dog that is going to be spending most of his or her time inside! These dogs need to be outside playing and would be great for someone who loves to go on hikes and is very active.
Some breeds are more laid-back, making them a good fit for a family that enjoys spending time indoors. These dogs would be happy sitting on the couch with you in the evenings. You won’t be able to take them on hikes every day!
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Once you have narrowed down the size and breed of the dog you are looking for, it’s time to start considering potential ones.
With each potential dog you look at, consider their personality and temperament. A nervous dog isn’t going to do well in a home full of children. Even one child may be too much for an anxious dog.
Some dogs are playful and happy-go-lucky, while others are very easygoing and calm. You need to ensure that your dog matches your family’s personality.
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It can be challenging to find the right dog for your family, but taking the extra time to do so will ensure that you can enjoy your new dog for years to come. Getting the wrong dog can be very hard on a family. So, really look at the care that your new dog will need, as well as their energy level. Their personality is also vital.
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Please note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
Whether you have made the decision to put your pet to sleep or he or she died suddenly while sleeping, getting over the death of a pet is never easy. It doesn’t even matter if you had him or her for five years or fifteen. You (and your family) need time to grieve.
Still struggling? Here are some tips that may help you cope with your loss.
Give yourself plenty of time.
Grief isn’t something that happens overnight. In fact, it can take months for some. It can also hit you like a ton of bricks once in a while, meaning that you may never get over your loss.
For this reason, you need to give yourself time to grieve and to feel the pain. If it takes you longer than most, that is how you cope. There is nothing wrong with that. Take all the time you need to process your feelings.
Don’t be afraid to show your emotions.
You will likely experience a range of emotions, from anger to sadness. You may face feelings of depression and may be asking if you did the right thing (if you had to make the decision to put your pet to sleep).
Don’t be afraid to talk about your feelings. You don’t want to bottle them up, because this will only exacerbate the problem in the future.
Don’t forget about your other pets.
Just because you lost one of your pets doesn’t mean that you can forget about your other ones. In fact, many of them may also be grieving!
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You need to ensure that you spend plenty of time with them, giving them extra love and attention during this challenging time. They are going to need you as much as you need them while you are working your way through your grief!
Find a way to say goodbye.
Unlike people, we don’t hold a funeral or memorial services to help us say goodbye to those we love. However, if you think it would help, you may want to do something for your pet. Invite your friends and family over to spend a few hours remembering your beloved pet.
Don’t forget to move on.
Many people struggle to move on after their pet dies. They almost get stuck in their grief, which can be very detrimental to their lives. You need to find a way to move on with your life.
It may also be helpful to consult a professional.
Many people have no problem seeing a therapist if they lose someone who is very dear to them. However, doing the same when their pet dies may seem a little silly. That being said, it is much better to talk to someone, so that you don’t get stuck in your grief!
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When you lose your pet, it takes time to deal with your grief. However, if you don’t deal with it, you may find yourself struggling years later. You are allowed to feel everything that you do, from anger and sadness to utter depression.
That being said, you can’t forget about your other pets. They are likely to be going through the stages of grief also. Make sure to spend extra time with them, as they will also find ways to move on without their best friend.
You may also want to spend some time with your family and friends thinking about your beloved pet. They may miss your pet as much as you do, so this may help all of you say goodbye.
You should also not be afraid to seek help if you need it. You might not think anything of seeing a therapist if someone you loved died, but you may not want to do the same when your pet dies. However, it may really help you find a way to move on, while still remembering your beloved pet.
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Please note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
Getting a new puppy is always an exciting time. You are bringing a new bundle of joy into your life, one that should give you lots of love and happiness over the next few years.
In order to make sure that your new puppy stays as healthy and happy as possible, good veterinary care is essential. However, those expenses can quickly add up. Because of that, many people decide to get insurance for their new puppy. Others don’t want the extra expense.
Whether you decide to buy insurance for your new puppy may be a personal decision. To help you make the right decision for you and your family, here are some reasons why you may and may not want to get it!
Here are some reasons to buy insurance for your new puppy.
Some policies cover routine veterinary care, including vaccines, blood work, and medications to keep your new puppy healthy.
Many people find veterinary care to be extremely expensive, and that is just what is necessary to keep their dogs healthy. Many require distemper, Lyme, and rabies vaccines, along with medication to keep them free from heartworms, fleas, and ticks.
Annual examinations are also important. Your veterinarian will examine your dog every year to make sure that he or she is as healthy as possible. It is much easier (and cheaper) to treat problems at the beginning. If you wait, recovery is going to be much longer.
As your puppy gets older, you may want to consider routine blood work to ensure that all of his or her vital organs are working properly. Many problems, such as thyroid disease, can be treated, as long as they are found early. Even if your dog gets kidney disease, you may be able to help him or her feel better for longer. Otherwise, you may not know until it is too late to help.
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Most cover any accidents and illnesses.
If your puppy gets injured or sick, your veterinary bills may be even worse. Even an ear infection can cost a few hundred dollars, especially when you consider the medicine and follow-up care. If you have to visit a specialist or the emergency clinic, your bill may be in the thousands. You may need emergency surgery, although diagnostics can also be quite costly.
In fact, without insurance, you may not be able to afford the veterinary care that your new puppy deserves.
Many pets are euthanized every year because their owners are unable to pay for their veterinary care in the event of an emergency. For that reason alone, you should seriously consider getting insurance for your new puppy.
You and your family don’t deserve to be in the position where your puppy’s care comes down to how much you can really afford.
Essentially, insurance for your new puppy will provide you with peace of mind.
In fact, many pet owners choose to buy insurance so that they know their pet will always receive the necessary care, regardless of the cost. If you don’t want to worry about your finances when it comes to the health of your new puppy, you should look into insurance today!
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Here are some reasons you may hold off.
Many people don’t feel like pet insurance is worth the extra cost.
The most common reason why people don’t buy pet insurance is that they don’t understand its worth. All they see is that they will owe money every month, which they may not be able to recoup.
In fact, some plans can be quite expensive because they are more comprehensive and offer higher coverage. They may pay up to eighty percent of the bill, without a deductible. Others are cheaper, but you are still expected to pay fifty percent of the bill. You might wonder if it is worth the extra cost if you still have to pay at least one hundred dollars every time you go to the veterinarian.
They may not be eligible for certain insurance plans and coverage.
It can be hard to choose the right policy. Many plans don’t cover certain breeds. Others won’t cover certain diseases, some of which may be common for the type of puppy you just bought. If you wait, you may not be able to find an affordable plan for your older dog.
Many people give up when they decide to buy insurance. They see too many regulations for too much money, so they just don’t even bother.
If you do decide to get insurance, when is the best time to get it?
Here are some factors to consider when determining when to get pet insurance.
The best time is when he or she is young.
Many breeders and veterinarians recommend insurance when you first get your new puppy. This ensures that all the routine vaccinations, examinations, and medications are covered. It will also cover any accidents or illnesses that occur throughout his or her life. If your puppy develops a chronic disease, its medical bills should be covered.
If you wait until the day that you need it, insurance will not cover it.
Just like people, many insurances won’t cover pre-existing conditions. Not only does this include emergency surgery on the day that you get the policy, but it may not cover any ear medication for a dog with regular ear problems. It may not cover insulin for patients who have already been diagnosed. If your pet is older, it may not cover all the diagnostics and treatments you may want to perform to help with arthritis and other common issues in older dogs. If it does, it might cost more than you expected to pay.
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When buying a new puppy, it is important that he or she gets the medical care required to ensure that he or she is as healthy as possible.
If you are not interested in pet insurance, Pet Cube offers an emergency fund program that will help pet parents in case of an emergency. When your pet is dealing with a serious issue, their emergency fund will enable you to see a vet within four hours, and they may cover up to $3,000, allowing you to focus on your pet’s recovery.
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Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
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You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
Although many people seem to own dogs and cats, the truth is that if you asked, most would tell you they prefer one over the other.
Most people consider themselves either “dog people” or “cat people.” Even if they own multiple critters, they may feel like they love either dogs or cats more.
I wrote an article recently about why dogs are better than cats. If you haven’t had a chance to read it, you can check it out here.
Don’t think dogs are for you? Here are some reasons why cats may be a better fit for you.
Cats will be perfectly happy if they are kept inside all of the time.
If you don’t have a backyard or places where you can take a dog on a hike regularly, you may be better off having a cat. He or she doesn’t need to go outside for any reason. In fact, it is often safer for cats to live indoors only. You won’t have to worry about cat fights or your cat getting hit on the road.
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Though you may think that your cat needs to go outside, the truth is that they are just as happy to curl up in a sunny area of your house. If they are able to look out the window, they can look at the birds flying by, while still staying safe. They also have plenty of room in your home or apartment to exercise. Running up and down the stairs and jumping on and off furniture can keep a cat entertained for hours.
They also don’t take up a lot of space.
Your cat will still be fine if you don’t have a large home or an apartment. You may not be able to have a Great Dane in your home, but your cat will still have plenty of room to run around and play.
Cats don’t need a lot of things.
All your cat needs is a food bowl, a water bowl, and a litter box, and he or she will be happy. A few toys can be nice, but your cat can entertain him or herself without these things.
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They also don’t need a lot of your time.
You may not have enough time for a dog if you are busy working and running around in the evenings. You may not have time to take a dog outside for walks multiple times a day, and your cat may not even notice that you aren’t home!
In fact, you may think that your cat understands personal space! Your cat may be happy to just come to sit beside you when you get home. So, instead of having to take your dog for a walk when you get home, you can take the extra time to relax (and your cat will still be happy).
Cats are often more affordable than dogs.
Unless you try to find a specific breed, such as a Maine Coon, cats are generally less expensive than dogs. In fact, you may be able to find plenty of free kittens in the spring!
That being said, free kittens aren’t free. They will still require veterinary care, including vaccinations and spaying or neutering. However, these fees are lower for cats than they are for dogs. Cats are also less likely to eat their toys and other things that they shouldn’t, which makes them less likely to get sick (and need emergency veterinary care).
If you live in an old farmhouse or have a garage, your cats can help keep the rodent population under control.
Cats are natural-born hunters, so you are likely to see your cat hunt and pounce on anything that you don’t want running around your home and property.
Cats are cleaner than dogs.
Dogs just love to roll in the mud and other gross things. You may find yourself giving your dog a bath regularly! Cats, on the other hand, love to clean themselves. They are constantly licking and grooming themselves.
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If you’re looking for a low-maintenance pet, consider getting a cat. Cats are happy being inside all the time. They don’t need constant walks and attention. They are happy to just lie in the sun and may sit beside you when you get home in the evening. In fact, if you find that you are hardly ever home, a cat might be the perfect pet for you!
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Please note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
