ArcaMax

Dear Cathy,

I am on oxygen 24/7 and have two cats who have fun chewing holes in my tubing. I have used so much duct tape to patch it; it's crazy. Do you have any suggestions?

— Holly, Omaha, Nebraska

Dear Holly,

To discourage them from chewing, use a pet-safe deterrent spray like Bitter Apple (available at pet stores or online) to make the...Read more

A good veterinarian will become your partner in helping your pet enjoy a healthy life, so choosing the right one is an important consideration.

When choosing your family's veterinarian, use the same care and criteria that you would in selecting your own physician or dentist.

Consider your priorities. Think about what is important to you ...Read more

Chrissy Teigen and John Legend have adopted a puppy.

The celebrity couple have revealed via Instagram that they've adopted a puppy called Dudley from Wags and Walks, a pet adoption service in Los Angeles.

The couple wrote: "In honor of National Puppy Day, meet Dudley - the newest member of our fam!! [dog paw emoji]

"When we first met Dudley, ...Read more

Pit Bulls have long been the subject of controversy, often portrayed as dangerous and aggressive dogs unfit for family life. However, this reputation is largely a myth, shaped by misinformation, media sensationalism, and a misunderstanding of the breed’s true nature. In reality, Pit Bulls can be loyal, affectionate, and well-behaved companions...Read more

Dear Cathy,

My wife and I are both retired and are able to begin traveling – something we were never able to do very much due to our work schedules. We are also the proud parents of a five-year-old Golden Retriever named Murphy. He is the love of our lives.

We do not like to be away from him even for one overnight. When we are away, we do ...Read more

Bringing home a new puppy is a life-changing decision. Even for experienced pet owners, raising a new puppy is a challenge. Being a responsible dog owner is about finding the balance between providing a safe environment and not overprotecting your pup.

The American Kennel Club offers these tips for raising a happy and well-adjusted dog.

...Read more

Dear Cathy,

I recently adopted a five-month-old Pomeranian. He’s fully trained to use a wee-wee pad, making him the perfect apartment dog. However, I can’t get him to go outside for a walk or play.

I’ve tried different approaches and rewards, but he refuses. When I pick him up, he trembles uncontrollably and digs his nails into me. He ...Read more

Cats are known for their unique and sometimes perplexing behaviors, which can leave owners wondering about their meaning. Understanding these actions can help strengthen the bond between humans and their feline companions and ensure their needs are met effectively.

Kneading is a common behavior in which cats push their paws alternately against ...Read more

Dear Cathy,

We recently adopted a seven-year-old Shih Tzu/Poodle mix from a shelter. He is great with people, but not good with other dogs. He gets aggressive around other dogs, and we know he would get in a fight, as his reaction shows it.

Is there any type of training we can do to stop his aggressiveness towards other dogs? He is a sweet and...Read more

Dogs are natural diggers. Whether they are trying to bury a bone, hunt for small critters or simply create a cool spot to lie down, the urge to dig is deeply ingrained in many breeds. While some owners may find this behavior amusing or tolerable in specific areas, excessive digging can become a serious problem, leading to destroyed lawns, torn-...Read more

For many people, pets provide unconditional love, companionship and a sense of security. But not all human-pet relationships are beneficial, and some may contribute to stress and anxiety rather than relief.

Psychologists have been studying attachment theory for decades. This framework explains how people form emotional bonds, seek ...Read more

Dear Cathy,

I have two cats – a 14-year-old male cat and a two-year-old female. Both are fixed. Things were fine for the first year, but for the past year, there has been a "dust-up" every six to eight weeks, and they hiss, snarl, and fight very aggressively.

We separate them for a minimum of two days and then reintroduce them to each other ...Read more

Finding a stray cat can be both a heartwarming and challenging experience. Whether the cat is lost, abandoned or feral, taking the right steps ensures its safety while preventing potential issues for your household and other pets.

The first step is to determine whether the cat is truly a stray or belongs to someone. A well-fed, friendly cat may...Read more

Feline diabetes is a growing concern among pet owners, as more cats are diagnosed with the condition each year. Recognizing the signs, seeking prompt veterinary care, and understanding treatment options can significantly improve a cat’s quality of life. Diabetes in cats occurs when the body either does not produce enough insulin or cannot ...Read more

The Scottish Fold cat, known for its distinctive folded ears and round, expressive eyes, has become a beloved breed among pet owners. With a calm temperament and affectionate nature, these cats can thrive in a suburban environment, offering companionship and unique charm to their owners.

Scottish Folds are known for their adaptability and can ...Read more

The Chihuahua is one of the smallest dog breeds in the world, yet it carries itself with the confidence and charisma of a much larger dog. Known for their larger-than-life personalities and strong bond with their owners, Chihuahuas have become a beloved breed for many pet enthusiasts. In this article, we’ll delve into the history of the ...Read more

Separation anxiety is a common behavioral condition in dogs that can lead to significant stress for both pets and their owners. It occurs when a dog becomes overly attached to their human companion and experiences extreme distress when left alone. This article will explore the causes, symptoms, and practical treatment strategies for managing ...Read more

When most people think about vaccines, they typically think about humans: Experts warn that when large numbers of people are unvaccinated, it can lead to severe consequences, including disease outbreaks and higher rates of illness and death, particularly among the most vulnerable. The economic costs to society can also be substantial.

...Read more

Choosing the right dog breed is a big decision that can shape your life for years to come. With countless breeds to choose from, finding the perfect furry companion for your lifestyle can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re looking for a jogging buddy, a cuddly lap dog, or a loyal family protector, these 10 tips will help you make an informed ...Read more