Chocolate poisoning for dogs

Chocolate contains theobromine – a substance toxic to dogs. Baking chocolate contains more theobromine per ounce than semisweet chocolate, which, in turn, contains more theobromine than milk chocolate. While most lethal cases of chocolate poisoning occur when small dogs eat large quantities of baking chocolate, owners should nonetheless keep their […]

Why cats eat plants or grass

Although cats are consummate carnivores, they do crave a bit of greenery now and again. Even wild cats nibble grass blades as a between mouse snack. There’s no known nutritional explanation for this behavior, although some experts suspect that cats are attracted to the high-fiber and moisture content of grass. […]

Cat scratch fever and bartonellosis

When future historians examine the numerous events that have contributed to the rapid emergence of knowledge related to infectious diseases during the latter portion of the 20th century, it is probable that research contributions related to infections caused by Bartonella species will be considered of unique medical importance. Although predated […]

Types of cat litter

There can’t be many feline households today without a litter box. The pervasiveness of the indispensable litter box makes it difficult to imagine a time before cat litter. But in fact, cat litter is a relatively recent accoutrement to the feline lifestyle. In less than half a century, beginning with […]

A cat’s dietary requirements

There is no animal quite like a cat — of that cat people are absolutely sure! Adulation aside, though, there is one aspect of cats that is truly unique — their dietary needs. Cats, unlike dogs or people, are obligate carnivoires. In other words, cats must eat animal tissue to […]

Breed-specific behavior of cats

What breed of cat is best with children? What would be the most appropriate breed for a single person who wants minimal interaction with a cat? How can one avoid or minimize the occurrence of urine spraying in pet cats? These are the kind of questions that could be posed […]

Care of mother dog and her puppies

Several weeks before your dog is ready to whelp, it is wise to supply her with a whelping box. The box should be large enough for the mother to stretch out in and also allow room for the puppies. Place the box in a warm area. The area should be […]

Care of orphaned kittens

Care of Orphaned Or Rejected Kittens Orphaned or rejected kittens are quite a challenge to care for, and the chances of saving them are directly proportional to their age when abandoned. Once in a while, a mother cat will reject one or all of her kittens. Rejection of the whole […]

Care of orphan puppies

Adequate warmth is crucial to the health of new puppies until the puppies are approximately 3-4 weeks of age. Temperature requirements for the first week of age are approximately 85-90 degrees. This can be accomplished with heating pads or hot water bottles. Care must be taken not to scald the […]