(Photo/Nature’s Recipe)

A History of Quality

The experts at Nature’s Recipe have spent 35 years working to ensure that they provide high-quality food that gives your pup everything they need to take on the day. Recipes from Nature’s Recipe do not contain things like:

• by-product meal
• corn and wheat
• artificial flavors and preservatives

Your dog deserves the real meat, chicken, and fish that can be found in the various formulas from Nature’s Recipe.

Multiple Options to Suit Your Pet’s Needs

Check out just a couple of the many options available from Nature’s Recipe. Other options include life-stage specific and original dry food options.

Grain-Free Dry Food

This grain-free dry dog food is suitable for all life stages and is available in multiple recipes, with real meat, chicken, or fish as the first ingredient. The balance of nutrients and lack of grains aims to make the food easier to digest for pups with sensitive stomachs.

Wet Food Options

Nature’s Recipe offers several options for wet food, including with-grain and grain-free options in a range of flavors. Variety packs are available in Original, Grain-Free, and Prime Blends so your pup can escape the monotony of having the same recipe every meal.

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While most people associate having a four-legged family member with additional work, it is also important to note that pets also take care of their owners. First, many people are not getting enough exercise, and having a dog to walk daily gives dog owners a reason to leave the couch and move around. This will improve their overall health, especially when the dog is active, loves regular walks, or likes to play with humans.

The physical and mental benefits of having a pet are also confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Owning a furry friend can contribute to lower blood pressure, as well as lower cholesterol levels. Emotional benefits include decreased loneliness, especially since dogs are known to be loyal and loving to humans.

Adopt, Not Shop

In the past, the natural thing to do if you wanted a pet was to head to the pet shop and buy a puppy or a kitten. There are still many who choose to find their new furry companions this way, but this is not just the only way to do it. A much better route is to go to a shelter and adopt a dog.

There are many misconceptions about shelter animals that should be broken. One of them is that these animals are normally unwanted or unmanageable dogs or cats that cannot be trained anymore. This is wrong, as shelter pets were also lost or needed to be rehoused due to owners passing away or moving out of state. Many of them are already domesticated, even trained, and just looking for a new human to love them. The reason why they ended up in the shelter has nothing to do with their health or temperament.

Below are 10 reasons to convince you to adopt a shelter dog instead of buying one.

Why Opt for Adopting from the Animal Shelter?

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You Will Save Lives

Animal shelters are overcrowded everywhere, with around 6 to 8 million dogs waiting to be adopted yearly. Unfortunately, when these centers are overcrowded, there is no other choice but to resort to euthanizing a lot of them.

When you adopt a shelter dog, you are saving their life. Moreover, you are freeing up space and other resources for another animal to be housed in that center. Thus, you are eventually saving more than just one life. Unfortunately, these shelters work on limited resources but have to provide a huge service to society. Without them, these abandoned animals will be roaming the streets and possibly threaten health and safety.

You Will Have a Variety of Options

Depending on your interest or lifestyle, you might particularly want an adult dog that is already trained, for example. Plus, puppies are known for being too energetic and thus require a lot of attention and time for training, which not everyone has the patience for. Whatever characteristic you are looking for, you are more likely to find it in a shelter compared to a pet store.

There are pet finder websites where you can search for these preferred attributes. Because there are millions of dogs in shelters all over the country, it is not impossible to find the one that fits perfectly with you and your home.

It is All About Finding the Right Match and Not About the Profit

Let’s face it, pet stores want to make money, and they are not as concerned about understanding you and your needs. If you go to one of them, you might be convinced by a sales pitch to pick whatever dog they have. This is one of the reasons many of these pets from the stores eventually end up in shelters because the owners realize in the end that the dog does not fit in their lives.

People working in shelters have spent a lot of time and effort rescuing and resuscitating these abandoned animals, so they are more likely to be emotionally concerned about finding a forever home. Moreover, they will know every dog’s personality, quirky traits, and special characteristics, so you know exactly how the dog is when you adopt it. So, if you have little kids or babies at home, they know which of their pups will be a great addition to your family. They use screening methods to find the right match.

Get a Purebred Dog for Less

There is more than one way to get a purebred dog other than going to a breeder. There are also quite a few to be found in animal shelters, so if this is what you prefer, make sure to call or search the shelters in the area if they know a purebred dog available for adoption.

You Do Not Need to Worry About What Kind of Dog You are Bringing Home

While some stray animals end up in animal shelters, it does not mean that these are wild dogs you should be scared of. In some cases, they are house pets that got lost and were never picked up by their owners.

An animal shelter is the best place to find a safe and healthy dog to bring home. These centers have professionals who check their health and treat whatever illness they have. They are also normally revived after living awhile on the streets. While finding a dog or cat with an existing condition looking for a home is possible, owners will be informed of their health beforehand. Moreover, they will not be cleared for adoption if they are unsuitable to live with a family.

You Avoid Normal Pet Store Dangers

Today’s domesticated dog types are specifically bred, but genetic issues caused by inbreeding may occur in certain situations. Unfortunately, many pet stores obtain their dogs from what is referred to as “puppy mills”. These people are more concerned about producing more pups and not about any health risks that may occur with inbreeding. Without your knowledge, you might bring home a dog with genetic defects that manifest in many health issues.

You will most likely find mixed-breed dogs in a shelter, but the risk of genetic problems is much lower because they come from a more diverse gene pool.

You Might Save On Some Costs

When you adopt a shelter dog, you might already end up with one that has been spayed or neutered or might have had vaccinations already. These centers might also have done medical tests to ensure your new dog’s health. If not, some of these shelters offer discounts or even do these services for free to encourage people to adopt.

You Do Not Have to Train Your Dog

In many cases, adopted dogs have already been house-trained, so you save a lot of time and effort having to do it yourself. This means saying goodbye to accidents on your furniture. These older dogs will also be easier to integrate into your home as they have been part of a family.

You Set a Great Example

Some people might have doubts or concerns about adopting a shelter dog, but seeing how great it has turned out for you and your family might encourage them to do the same. It is time to make adopting the norm instead of the exception.

You Will Be Rewarded with Love

Last but certainly not least, you should adopt a shelter dog because of the unconditional love that awaits you. These pets are just as capable of affection and love as pet store animals, and those that have gone through hard times will appreciate you much more. After being abandoned, these pooches are looking for their forever home and will be happy finally finding it. Just think of all those cuddles you will get and that look of full trust you will receive from your adopted pup.

As the saying goes, you cannot buy love. You might, however, find it by bringing home a shelter dog today. This is especially true for those with so much love to share, even for pups that no one wants. While only 10 reasons have been listed above, there are certainly more reasons to adopt instead of shop. So if you want to add a four-legged creature to your family circle, this is the perfect time to head to the nearest animal shelter.

How to Prepare for Your New Arrival

• Make sure you have all the supplies your dog will need to be comfortable, such as bedding, a quality collar and the correct type of leash, a water bowl or fountain, and toys to keep them entertained. Provide some chew toys to keep them entertained if you have a puppy.
• Pet-proof your home by ensuring anything is out of the way, such as cleaning products or toxic chemicals and tying up loose cables. You may wish to consider using products such as dog gates or electric dog fences.
• Set up an area for your pet to go to, such as a dog bed or dog crate, with a dog blanket and some toys so they can quickly learn that this is their space.
• If your shelter hasn’t provided a vaccination, schedule an appointment with your local vet for your new arrival to be registered and have a health check-up. Our guide to puppy shot schedules might come in handy.
• Give your pet time to settle in at home and let them adjust naturally, and make sure all the family members use the same commands, so your dog doesn’t get confused.

For all things pet related, make sure you check out our range of guides and advice for pets by visiting MyPetNeedsThat.com

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Why Do Cats Sleep so Much?

There are a number of reasons behind cats sleeping for large portions of the day. Many cat owners don’t know that cats have very different sleeping patterns from humans. They have retained a lot of the habits of their wild ancestors, including the need to hunt at certain times of day when it’s cooler and safer, and they’re more likely to find their preferred prey.

You’ll rarely find your cat in a deep sleep, but it’s not impossible. Cats tend to have a kind of dozing deep sleep pattern rather than dropping into hours of deep sleep every night like humans. Your domesticated cats will take cat naps throughout the day to regain energy and be more active during twilight hours.

What does this mean for your cat’s sleeping pattern? It means your cat wakes up later in the day and will be more active between dusk and dawn. Have you ever noticed your cats sleeping while doing housework or working? That’s typical cat behavior for domesticated cats of any breed. Older cats will, however, sleep more than other house cats.

The Difference Between Nocturnal and Crepuscular

A nocturnal animal, such as an owl, will only be active at night. They sleep during the day and are active when it’s dark so that they can hunt certain types of prey. But the other reason that owls are night hunters is that their body’s build is better suited for staying active at night. They have evolved with certain traits to adapt to that time of day, while other birds are day hunters and will sleep at night.

Cats are an interesting case. Over the many years of evolution that feline species have gone through, they’ve come out with eyes that are perfect for use in low-light conditions. Their bodies have adapted to hunting during twilight hours, and their eyesight works at its best. Additionally, they are extremely stealthy creatures, so catching prey who use twilight hours to run around is much easier.

To summarise this section: Nocturnal animals are night hunters with bodies better built for being incredibly silent and feeding on other late-night animals, while crepuscular animals (like cats) are better adapted to low-light conditions rather than full darkness.

Your cat is likely to exert a lot of their energy during the twilight hours, so it’s good to be a cat owner who isn’t a light sleeper or is also active at night so that your cats don’t disturb your sleep much. Kittens won’t completely follow crepuscular habits, but they’ll quickly show signs of them once they are awake more often.

How Much Do Cats Sleep a Day?

You can expect a house cat to sleep between 12 and 16 hours in a single day. That’s the average, but they may sleep more or less than that. If you’re wondering how much sleep is healthy for your cat, don’t compare them to other species or even your own sleeping pattern. If you feel like your cat is sleeping too much or is lethargic and hard to wake up, seek veterinarian advice. Particularly if they can’t stay awake or won’t wake up.

Why is My Cat Sleeping so Much?

Your cat is having a long cat nap because it’s normal for them to do so. They will wake for food or may switch positions now and then, but cats don’t really “come alive” until the evening. This makes them an excellent companion for people who work nights or from home, but it also means that anyone in a standard 9 to 5 job doesn’t need to feel bad about leaving their kitties at home all day. Trust us, they mostly sleep and will only wake up to eat, use the bathroom, or if something startles them.

Why is My Cat Sleeping More Than Usual?

When you feel that your cat may be sleeping more than usual, it’s important to monitor their sleeping schedule and daily routine.

Older cats sleep more often than younger cats, but they will still have several hours of activity each day.

It’s hard to say this, but if your cat is very old and spends a lot of their time asleep or laying around, they may be near the end of their life. Cats live an average of 12 to 18 years, depending on their breed.

If your cat is otherwise healthy but seems to be sleeping far too much, an underlying medical issue could go untreated.

Does a Medical Issue Cause Your Cat’s Sleeping Habits?

Lethargy indicates something else going on inside your cat’s body that needs to be checked out.

Any of these symptoms should be a cause for concern that leads you to book a health check-up with your cat’s veterinarian:

• Abnormal sleepiness
• Lack of energy/low energy
• Little or no response to stimuli or changes in their surroundings
• Spending more time sleeping than usual
• Not eating as much because they’re sleeping instead

All of these symptoms are connected to lethargy. Although there may be nothing serious going on, having your cat checked out would be better if a more critical illness, injury, or medical condition causes your cat to sleep more than they used to.

What to Do if Your Cat Won’t Wake Up

If you’re struggling to wake your cat up, there are several steps you can take before the situation becomes a bit more serious:

1. First, try to wake them by calling their name and petting them.
2. If that doesn’t work after a few minutes of trying, shake their treat bag to see if that gets their attention. Try waving the open bag under their nose, too.
3. Here’s where the situation is getting more serious. Try gently moving your cat to see if they respond to the change.
4. This is where you call your emergency vet. Tell them your cat isn’t responding and you want to bring them in.

Remember to check your cat’s breathing when attempting to wake them. You can do this by putting your finger under their nose or resting your hand on their side. If you can’t feel any breath and their chest isn’t rising, perform cat CPR if you know how to, or immediately drive to your nearest veterinarian practice with your pet.

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Below is a complete guide detailing everything you need to know about dandruff, including what it is, what causes it, its symptoms, and how to get rid of cat dandruff.

What is Cat Dandruff?

Like people, cats can also have dandruff. These skin flakes hide in their fur and on their beds and household furniture.

So what exactly is dandruff in cats? Feline dandruff is categorized as grey or white flakes that can be seen across your cat’s skin and hair, resulting in mild to excessive scratching due to dryness and itchiness. Dandruff in cats can be fairly mild, but in some rare instances, it can indicate a bigger health condition or other concerning skin problems.

What’s the Difference Between Cat Dander and Cat Dandruff?

It’s a misconception that dandruff and dander are the same things. Dander is completely normal and is something all cats produce. Some cat owners are led to believe that it is a sign of serious health concerns when it is perfectly healthy. To put it simply, dander is known as dead skin cells removed to make way for new skin cells.

On the other hand, Dandruff is a skin condition characterized as irritable, dry, sensitive, flaky skin. It often occurs when the sebaceous glands in your cat’s skin start to overproduce oil. Whereas these natural skin oils are good for keeping your cat’s fur in tip-top condition, too much of one thing can cause problems. In this case, the overproduction can begin to harshly irritate the skin, causing excess shedding.

Dander and dandruff can be evident across your cat’s body, but dandruff can be more obvious as you can see it on their coat, bedding, and furniture.

Main Causes of Cat Dandruff

If you’re certain it’s not cat dander you’re seeing across their fur and your home, you may ask, ‘why does my cat have dandruff?’. It can be caused by many things, which are all listed below.

Poor Diet

Your cat’s dandruff can often result from a poor diet that lacks essential nutrients to keep them healthy inside and out. A balanced diet not only helps their internal health but will also provide nourishment for their skin and fur too.

Obesity

Overweight cats often find it difficult to groom properly, which can cause flaky dandruff. When cats groom themselves, they also help to distribute the natural oils, but if they can’t reach certain areas, the oils will build up, causing irritation.

Poor Grooming Practices

Most cats are adept at keeping themselves clean, but the odd few lack the skill. When cats neglect to groom themselves, the undercoat and overcoat will retain loose hairs and dead skin cells, causing them to develop dandruff.

Dehydration

Dehydration in cats isn’t uncommon and can be a prominent cause of itchy and dry skin. Moreover, dryness and itchy skin can also be caused by the temperature of your cat’s environment.

Disease or Illness

Cancer, hormonal conditions, a fungal infection, and kidney disease can attribute to a cat’s dandruff. In addition, food or general allergies can also be a cause of excessive shedding and difficult flaky skin. The reaction can cause the skin to become sensitive and itchy.

Furthermore, when your cat falls ill to a disease or illness, they can often be too uncomfortable to groom themselves properly.

External Parasites

On the other hand, if they are attacked by parasites such as mites, fleas, or lice, they can overgroom to relieve their discomfort resulting in dry skin. In addition, a parasite named Cheyletiella mites can cause a harmful contagious form of cat dandruff known as ‘walking dandruff’.

What are the Symptoms of Dandruff in Cats

The most prominent symptom of cat dandruff is the troublesome white flakes that spread out within your cat’s fur. However, there are several other signs to look out for that may suggest that your cat is struggling, including:

Excessive grooming (this can result in hair loss and eventual bald spots)

• Redness of the skin
• Scratching
• Gnawing
• Change in behavior
• Lethargy

How to Get Rid of Cat Dandruff

As troubling as this issue may sound, there are plenty of ways you can treat cat dandruff.

Switch to a High-Quality Diet

Your cat’s diet should consist of many nutrients that will benefit their overall health and skin health. In this instance, you may need to invest in cat food high in omega-3 fatty acids. You can also get your hands on formulas specially made for skin health.

Diets for Overweight Cats/Using Supplements

If your cat is overweight, plenty of options are available to help them drop the extra weight. These formulas contain fewer calories while offering vital nutrients to keep them healthy. In addition, you can also purchase supplements such as fish oil that can add extra moisture and nutrition to wet or dry food.

Hydrating Your Cat

If you feel dehydration is the prime culprit, it’s worth switching them onto a wet food diet to add extra moisture. Furthermore, try introducing them to a water fountain. A fountain is a great tool to encourage cats to drink more as they prefer running water sources.

Groom Them

If you’ve noticed that your cat doesn’t groom itself enough, it may be helping out. Brushing your cat regularly can help remove dead skin cells and loose and dead hair.

Cat Shampoo

An effective way to treat dandruff can be to try a specialized shampoo. Not only can it help to remove stubborn flakes and loose hair, but it can also help soothe and moisturize fur and skin.

Purchase a Home Humidifier

A humidifier can keep the airflow in your home moist to help your cat maintain healthy skin. This is especially effective in particularly hot and humid areas or homes that become particularly dry during the summer.

Seek Advice

If your cat’s flaky skin could be a side effect of a medical condition, it’s worth taking your feline friend to see a vet. Your vet may be able to provide a remedy or prescription to help ease the skin and fight irritation and dryness.

Sources:

1. Wallenbeck I, Identification Of Dander-specific And Serum-specific Allergens In Cat Dandruff Extract, Europe PMC
2. Dr. Lori Teller, Don’t Brush Off Feline Dandruff, Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences
3. Itchy Cat – When It Is Not Fleas, International Cat Care

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As they get bigger, you may ponder the best time to switch from kitten food to adult food. There’s much to know about the transition to an adult food that is worth considering. This includes factors such as the difference between your average house cat and larger breed cats, ensuring they don’t exceed the ideal adult body weight and the key difference between kitten food vs. cat food. Read on to find out more.

Can Kittens Eat Adult Cat Food?

At such a young age, kittens have their own nutritional needs compared to adult cats. Kitten food has more nutrients, such as protein, fat, DHA, and extra calories, than adult cat food. Kittens will rely on these increased levels of nutrients to be able to develop and grow effectively.

It’s not all about nutrition, either. Dry kitten food, in particular, is smaller so that their tiny mouths and teeth can pick it up and break it down.

Note: It’s worth noting that if a particular cat food states that it is suitable for all life stages, it’s perfectly acceptable to feed it to your kitten. However, the crucial thing to remember here is that you must pay special attention to the feeding guidelines. Just because it’s safe for your kitten to eat doesn’t mean they will require the same volume of food as an adult cat.

When Can Kittens Eat Wet Food?

Kittens can begin eating wet food when they are between four and eight weeks old. At this time, they are weaning or have been weaned and require a more balanced kitten food to support their needs.

When Can Kittens Eat Dry Food?

Kittens can begin to eat dry food around the same time (four to eight weeks old), but it’s ideal to provide soft foods. If you eventually plan on introducing them to dry food, you must soften the kibble with water to make it easier to chew and digest.

The Importance of Making the Switch

As mentioned previously, kittens require a different level of nutrients compared to adult cats. Since they are growing fast and have significantly higher energy levels, they need these nutrients to support these factors and won’t get what they need from an adult formula.

When they mature, your kitten’s nutritional needs will also change. It will no longer rely on the extra support and therefore need to transition to adult cat food to prevent unnecessary weight gain.

When Can Kittens Eat Adult Food

You can begin feeding your kitten cat food when they reach their first birthday. To avoid digestive upset, you will need to gradually introduce adult cat food over a short period. You must transition your kitten over a seven to ten-day period.

How to Make the Switch From Kitten to Adult Cat Food

Take a look at the guidelines below, which detail how to make the switch to adult cat food

• Day 1 – 2: Use 1/4 of the new food and 3/4 of the kitten food.
• Day 3 – 4: Use 1/2 of the new food and 1/2 of the kitten food
• Day 5 – 6: Use 3/4 of the new adult food and 1/4 of the kitten food
• Day 7 – 10: Primarily use the adult cat food

Note: Since larger breeds, such as the Maine Coon will mature slower, you will have to wait 18 months to two years before transitioning your kitten food to cat food.

Potential Problems

When kittens eat cat food, it’s not uncommon for them to experience digestive distress. If this is the case, it’s completely safe for them to resume eating their previous kitten food. This also applies if you’ve found that your kitten has seemingly lost their appetite.

What to Do if Your Kitten Experiences Issues

Apart from giving your now adult cat kitten food, there are also a couple of things to consider to help them with the transition process.

1. First, when choosing your adult cat food, ensure it’s a brand offering high-quality ingredients and nutrients.

Take the time to analyze what the food offers your feline friend. In particular, look out for the ingredients here and the amount that the food contains:

• Protein – to support rapid growth and development. Felines require far more protein than dogs
• DHA – contains fatty acids for brain and vision development
• Fat – this also impacts rapid growth and development
• Taurine – this supports vision, digestion, and heart muscle function.
• Vitamins & Minerals – vitamin A, magnesium, and copper are crucial for kittens during development.

All the ingredients above are vital to your cat’s well-being as they can help maintain their eyesight, heart health, immune system, and more. If you’re unsure about the best option, give your fur friend a talk to your vet.

2. If you’ve attempted to transition to dry adult cat food, consider feeding them wet food instead.

As expected, wet food has a higher water content that is integral to your cat’s weight and urinary health. In addition, wet alternatives can help prevent dehydration in cats.

3. It’s a long shot, but it’s crucial to understand that cats can develop food allergies. This is uncommon, but it can happen. If you notice troubling signs and symptoms in your kitten, take them to your vet.

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In this article, we will look at kitten’s eyes in more detail. We’ll look at when they first open their eyes to when their eyes change color. If you were wondering if you could predict the color of your cat’s eyes, read on for clues. We will also look at how to keep your cat’s eyes healthy.

When Do Newborn Kittens Open Their Eyes?

The first thing we need to acknowledge before answering this question is that kittens are born blind with both eyes sealed closed, with the only functional senses being smell and touch. Between 8-12 days, the kitten’s eyes will open slowly. A newborn kitten will have blue eyes, likely changing color as they mature. After two weeks, a kitten’s eyes will be open fully, and they will have baby blue eyes. At this stage, a kitten’s eyes are still very much developing.

It is worth mentioning that these developmental milestones are for reference only, and all kittens develop at their own pace. Usually, at around four to five weeks of age, a kitten will have blurred vision, which means that they may stumble and have issues with coordination. A kitten’s eyes are usually fully developed around five to seven weeks, but their color is not yet fully matured – this can occur from around three to six months.

When Do Kittens’ Eyes Change Color?

As we have established, most kittens are born with blue eyes. After a few months, the kitten’s eyes will slowly change color to the color they will remain in adult life.

Common eye colors include green, yellow, orange, brown eyes, and copper colored eyes but some cat breeds typically have blue eyes in adult life, such as Siamese, Ragdoll, Himalayan, and Tonkinese. When a cat’s eye color matures, it is common to see flecks of different colors. These derive from the pigment cells called melanocytes, which dictate the final color.

The Science Bit…

There are two layers in the iris: the stroma and epithelium, and these pigmented cells determine eye color. These cells work together to contribute to the overall pigment. If the eye has a lot of pigment, the cat’s eye color will be golden or orange, whereas less pigment creates green. If a cat does not have pigment in their eyes, they will be blue-eyed.

It can take a year for a cat’s eye color to develop fully.

Can You Predict a Cat’s Final Color?

It can be difficult to predict what color your cat’s eyes will be as the color has nothing to do with gender or coat color/pattern. A kitten’s eyes will commonly change from green to yellow to orange and then copper, but as we’ve discussed, certain breeds, such as Siamese and Ragdoll, are predisposed to have blue eyes.

Sadly, there is no way of knowing what color eyes your adult cat will have. But we also think that this creates a beautiful surprise as they mature. Will they have a majestic amber eye color? Unusual yellow eyes or beautiful blue eyes?

Are Your Cat’s Eyes Healthy?

It can be normal for a cat’s eyes to change color slightly as they age, but a sudden color change over a short period could indicate serious health issues. Eye color change can be a symptom of an eye infection, but it can also be a symptom of a serious condition called uveitis which can cause permanent damage if left untreated. If your cat’s eyes change color and look abnormally red, orange, or yellow, please consult your vet for advice as soon as possible. If your cat’s eyes return to their original blue color, it can also signify vision loss or eye damage.

Eye color changes later in life can be a sign of a serious eye condition, so if you notice any changes, seek veterinary advice immediately.

Final Thoughts

Getting a kitten is an amazing experience; seeing them open their eyes for the first time is a special milestone. One of the most wonderful things about owning a cat is not knowing their adult eye color – there’s no way of knowing. Watching as your cat’s eye color changes over the weeks and months is a beautiful experience – and we believe that cats’ eyes are stunning no matter their color.

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But what does this mean, and are grains and vegetables beneficial for your pooch?

We explore all the issues around the question – are dogs carnivores or omnivores? – and give you all you need to know to provide your pet with a balanced diet to help them thrive.

Are Dogs Carnivores or Omnivores?

There are three categories of diet for animals: carnivore, omnivore, and herbivore. And when it comes to canines, one category – the herbivore – can immediately be ruled out.

To be a herbivore, an animal will only eat plant material, and its physiology and anatomy will be adapted to eat and digest such a diet. Examples of herbivores include cows, rabbits, and horses.

By nature, domesticated dogs are not natural herbivores as they have evolved from meat-eating hunters. But that doesn’t necessarily mean they should exclusively eat a meat-only diet.

However, this is where a debate in the scientific and veterinary world has continued for many years, with discussions on whether domestic dogs are pure carnivores or omnivores by nature.

The crux of the matter is how well a canine can digest plant-based food as, unlike a cat which requires meat to survive, today’s domesticated dogs can also thrive on a diet that combines animal protein and plant-based ingredients.

But a dog’s digestive system doesn’t process plant materials as efficiently as meat, meaning that while they can be classified as an omnivore, a dog’s diet naturally leans towards the carnivore end of the spectrum!

Omnivore and Carnivore – The Difference Between the Two

Before we start exploring in more depth the ideal diet you should aim to feed your dog, we look at what omnivore and carnivore really mean and the key differences between the two.

Carnivore

Carnivore is Latin for ‘eating or feeding on flesh’ and relates to an animal that almost exclusively lives on a meat-based diet. True or obligate carnivore species include wolves, big wild cats (and domesticated cats), hyenas, and polar bears. And, as hunting animals, carnivores require energy and a protein-rich diet to support their highly active lifestyle.

One of the main differences between pure carnivores and omnivores is their teeth, which have evolved to match the diet they eat. Carnivores have sharp teeth to tear and shred raw meat and have a simple but effective up-and-down chewing action.

Carnivore doesn’t need to chew their food very much – just enough to send it down the esophagus – and they have a simpler digestive system than an omnivore and herbivore. This is because it is easier to extract nutrients from protein than plant matter, so carnivores have a shorter digestive tract.  They also have a specialized enzyme in their stomach that is specifically for digesting meat.

Omnivore

The word ‘omnivore’ derives from Latin, and in a simple translation, means “eats everything”. This means omnivores not only eat meat and animal-based proteins but fruits, vegetables, and grains as part of their everyday diet. Humans are prime examples of an omnivore.

The omnivore has a different jaw shape and chewing action to the carnivore to ensure they can chew and digest a wider range of food types. Unlike the carnivore, which has jaws that only move up and down to tear apart meat, true omnivores have both an up and down and sideways jaw movement for a more versatile chewing style.

The omnivore’s teeth are also adapted to their meat and a plant-based diet, with flat molars to support chewing plant material. However, omnivores can also have fang-like canine teeth, especially in a species such as the domesticated dog, which has evolved from a carnivore and still has a meat-rich diet.

The Modern Dog’s Digestive System

Considering the differences between carnivores and omnivores, we can now start to understand how the modern canine has changed from the wild wolf to the domestic pet we know and love today through dog evolution. And this can also help us to answer the question – are dogs obligate carnivores?

And at the heart of this answer is the development of the modern dog’s digestive system, which underpins the canine’s transition from hunting carnivore to meat and plant-eating pet.

How a modern dog eats and extracts all the essential energy and nutrients from its dog food is the result of how it has adjusted to more of an omnivore diet. This includes:

An Evolved Intestine

Intestinal length is the quickest way to identify an omnivore from a physiological perspective. As plants are more complex to digest than animal protein, an omnivore requires a longer digestive tract to give their system more time to do its job. This means a carnivore will have a shorter small intestine than an omnivore or herbivore.

As “obligate carnivores”, domestic cats have a shorter gastrointestinal tract than domestic canines. However, the interesting point is that a human’s intestine is much longer than a dog’s – averaging at between 5 and 7 meters, compared to 2-5 meters in a dog.

Essential Nutrients

There are also some core differences in the nutritional requirements of an omnivore compared to a carnivore. These include that carnivores require higher amounts of amino acids, arachidonic acid, and vitamin A, which they obtain from meat.

Omnivores, including dogs, can also create vitamin A from plant beta-carotene and arachidonic acid (polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acids) from vegetable oil.

Ability to Handle Grains

While some evidence points to the fact that wolves were also known to occasionally eat grains in the wild, new research has identified crucial genetic differences between the wolf and the domestic dog. And these differences mean the dog is more genetically disposed to starch and glucose digestion, both of which are found in grains.

Today’s modern dog has more of a specific gene called AMY2B, which helps break down food, particularly fibrous grains found in a starch-rich diet, by producing a substance called salivary amylase.

Domesticated dogs also have another gene that helps in starch digestion by breaking down the sugary starch maltose into the more digestible glucose, which is also used for energy.

Do Dogs Need to Eat Meat?

While their physiology is designed to eat and digest animal protein, as an omnivore, your dog doesn’t necessarily need meat to survive. That said, for optimum balanced nutrition for your pet, high-quality animal protein should be a key aspect of their daily diet to ensure that they remain in good health and thrive. And it has to be said that most dogs are drawn to and prefer a meat-based diet.

Animal protein provides your dog with essential amino acids for their skin, muscles, and joints and their energy supply. It is also easier for their system to digest. Meat also supports the body’s immune system and ability to repair itself.

Balanced, Complete Nutrition

A dog’s carnivore instincts remain strong; you only have to look at their canine teeth or how they devour their bone treat to see how eating meat is in their DNA. But due to dog domestication, the modern dog has also evolved to tolerate and benefit from other non-meat-based natural foods, such as plants, fruits, and vegetables.

Just look at the ingredient label on your pooch’s favorite dog food and see the variety of food deemed nutritious for canines. Yes, your dog requires protein for good health, but it doesn’t always have to be just meat, as non-meat proteins such as egg and soy can be used as alternatives.

And let’s not forget that many legumes and whole grains are good sources of those essential amino acids. And many dogs can easily digest grains – although, for more digestion or allergy-sensitive dogs, grains can be a red flag to avoid in their dog food.

The key to keeping your canine omnivore healthy and happy is a balanced, nutritious diet that caters to his instincts. And this means always ensuring you are feeding them well-formulated dog food that not only includes a high quality, preferably animal protein, as well as appropriate carbohydrates, good fats, and whole grains.

Are Dogs Omnivores or Carnivores – Conclusion

As pet parents, we want to give our dogs the best life, including providing the right diet to support their health and well-being. And, while it can be easy to assume that dogs are pure meat eaters, balanced and appropriate nutrition is the key to a long healthy life.

Your dog is at heart a meat eater, but it is more complex than that as their body has evolved to not just digest but benefit from plant-based ingredients too. This means your dog is generally considered an omnivore rather than a pure carnivore.

But it is important to remember that your dog requires high-quality protein as their food’s main ingredient. And as your pooch needs protein-based nutrients such as taurine and vitamin D for a healthy metabolism and immune system, animal-based protein will provide what he needs.

Most dogs prefer meat, but for complete and balanced nutrition, carbohydrates, fruit, vegetables, and appropriate plant-based ingredients should also feature in their daily diet.

No two dogs are the same, and age, health, and life stage can all contribute to how and what you feed them. So, if you doubt what you should be feeding your pet or are considering an alternative diet for your dog, always consult your veterinarian.

Sources:

1. Dietary profile of wild wolves. – National Library of Medicine
2. Guide to dog nutrition. – PetMD

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What Dog Breeds Fall Under the Category of Pitbull?

Four canines fit comfortably beneath the Pit Bull dog breed banner:

• American Pit Bull Terrier
• American Staffordshire Terrier
• Staffordshire Bull Terriers
• American Bully

These Pit Bull type dogs each have their unique traits, but some aspects link them together. However, when looking for a new family member, it’s a good idea to look into each breed to know exactly what to expect. So which Pit Bull takes your fancy?

What are the Major Pros and Cons of Pit Bulls?

Although we’ve mentioned that each Pit Bull breed is different, various traits can summarize all four breeds. So what are the primary pros and cons of owning a Pit Bull? All of these are listed below, but before we get stuck into the nitty gritty, it’s important to mention that some of these aspects are directly related to how they are raised. For more information, each trait is listed in detail so you can carefully consider them.

Pros

• They Make Loving and Loyal Companions

Their gentle and affectionate temperament is one of many benefits of owning a Pitbull. When raised in a patient, loving, and devoted home, these dogs will return the love tenfold. And then some. They make excellent companions for an experienced owner or even a rookie.

Naturally, Pit Bulls crave love and attention from their favorite humans. They are generally doting animals that will do anything for a head scratch or belly rub. Regardless of what some sources claim, they make excellent playmates and companions for children, which has earned the Pit Bull the title of ‘nanny dog’ over the years.

• They are People Orientated People Pleasers

When socialized well from a young age, Pit Bulls become people-orientated dogs, which means they will demonstrate good behavior to new people. As such, Pit Bulls will look tough on the outside but have an eager and loving nature toward those around them.

• Minimal Grooming Requirements

Pitbulls shed all year round, but the good news is that their coats are simple to maintain. Since they have a short, straight, and single coat, you won’t be likely to find tufts of hair hiding in corners of your home. However, it’s important that you still give them the occasional bath and brush them a couple of times a week to help remove loose fur. Furthermore, unlike dogs like the German Shepherd, you won’t have to trim or cut their coats since they only have a single layer.

• Protective Presence

The Pit Bull’s questionable reputation can sometimes work in your favor. Since they have a tough-looking exterior and radiate confidence, you are less likely to be approached by someone looking for trouble. Additionally, your home is less likely to be broken into if the intruder believes that the dog inside could become aggressive.

Although Pit Bulls are not considered dangerous to those educated on the dog breed, they can be protective of their families. They won’t be inclined to attack but may become vocal if they sense danger or trouble.

• They Can Keep You Active

Pit Bull owners will vouch that their canine companion keeps them fit and active. Each breed is not officially considered a high-energy dog but still loves to exercise.

Since these breeds are muscular and active, you will need to ensure they get plenty of exercise by taking them out for at least 60 minutes daily. Not to mention, you’re not confined to a simple walk or jog. They also enjoy swimming (provided they’ve been taught) and will love getting stuck in dog sports if enrolled.

• High Intelligence

From American Bullies to American Pit Bull Terriers, Pit Bulls are incredibly intelligent canines. Coupled with their eagerness to please, this makes them easy to train compared to other dogs as they will pick up on lessons quickly to make their human happy.

It is also said that they are intuitive and can read people’s emotions well. With this in mind, they can often mirror what their owners feel. When treated with love and adoration, the Pit Bull will return it, but if shown otherwise, they can become anxious and closed off. This is another reason why it’s important to properly socialize your puppy.

Cons

If you’re glancing over this article thinking, ‘wow, there seem to be quite a few cons – maybe I should reconsider Pit Bulls’, make sure to keep reading. Many of these cons are based on what happens when a Pit Bull isn’t raised in the best environment, so they can easily be avoided if you are serious about getting yourself one of these dog breeds.

• They Can Develop Anxiety

Pit Bulls specifically can develop separation anxiety. When left alone, they can resort to behaviors such as destructive chewing, urinating/defecating inside, digging, constant pacing, and more.

Often, Pit Bulls develop this as a response to trauma such as a change in family members, traveling, or even being left alone for long periods. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to prevent this, including getting them some interactive dog toys or a treat-dispensing toy. Not only will these occupy your pooch, but they are a great tool for mental stimulation. Additionally, you can purchase dog cameras to install around your home as a way of communicating with them when you’re not around.

• They Can Suffer From Numerous Health Issues

Like other breeds, Pit Bulls are prone to some health concerns. Hip dysplasia, heart disease, obesity, and cataracts are some health problems that can affect your Pit Bull at some point in their life.

Skin issues and allergies are common occurrences in Pit Bulls, causing them to develop dry and irritated skin. In most cases, this can be mild and be treated with sensitive shampoos and appropriate dog foods. However, in other instances, your dog may have to take medication to ease pain and discomfort.

Sadly, some health issues can’t be avoided, but you can make sure their quality of life is at its peak. Issues such as obesity can be prevented by controlling their diet and ensuring it is the best option based on their age and size. Additionally, you can ensure they’re getting the required amount of exercise and take them for regular vet checkups.

• If Untrained, They Can Develop Bad Tendencies or Aggressive Behavior

It goes without saying that you could have a bad dog to deal with if you neglect to invest in socialization and basic obedience training. Not only will they turn their nose up at you, but they may develop destructive habits and be prone to biting other animals or even people.

Pit Bulls are strong-willed with a high prey drive, so if they feel like they’re in a frightening position, feel threatened, or simply lack discipline, you could be in a sticky situation yourself.

• The Stigma Latches Onto Owners

Many still believe that Pit Bull breeds are volatile and aggressive; sadly, this image can infect their owners too. The reason for this bad rap is due to their unfortunate breed history, as they were specifically bred to participate in unethical blood sports such as bull baiting and fighting wild animals. These sports have since been banned, but unfortunately, people engage their canines in illegal dog fighting rings in the modern day.

Pit Bulls are also commonly known to be favored by gangs and criminals to put on or enhance an intimidating aura. Therefore you may find that, as a Pit Bull owner, you could be subject to prejudice, and although many dog owners and enthusiasts know otherwise, others may give you a wide birth or judge harshly.

• They are Banned in Some States

If you’re one to travel, owning a Pit Bull might make things a little more complicated since they have been banned from several states. The Breed Specific Legislation is actively enacted in some areas as an attempt to prevent dog bites and similar attacks on humans and other dogs/animals.

Although there are sources that state that the BSL has done little to affect dog bites and attacks, according to sources, Pit Bulls are responsible for more dog bites than any other dog breed. This is troubling, but it’s important to consider what may lead a dog to bite in the first place.

• Adult Pit Bulls Can Be Difficult to Train

The saying ‘you can’t teach an old dog new tricks is outdated and incorrect to some degree. You can train an adult dog, but you may have to apply a lot more time and effort to train them successfully or even employ a qualified trainer.

Training them young is ideal, as Pit Bulls love to learn and impress their humans. They are also free from traumas or anxieties, whereas an adopted adult Pit Bull may have trouble coming to terms with training and their new family.

The Pros and Cons of Adopting a Pit Bull

There are many reasons to get a Pitbull from your local center or rescue shelter, but some risks come with adopting. All of these are listed below.

Pros

• You won’t be completely in the dark about your new dog. Since those that work at shelters and centers spend a lot of time with the dogs and evaluating them, they will be able to provide you with everything you need to know about your dog’s temperament, personality, and individual needs.
• Some dogs will already be house-trained! No need to enroll them in a training program if they already know what they’re doing.
• You’re saving a life. Adopting educates people on the severe problems revolving around animal abuse and neglect. The minute you bring your rescue home, you will be offering them safety, comfort, and love, which you’ll get in return!
• Adopting will save you money. Getting a puppy can be pricey but getting a purebred can damage your wallet.
• A lot of rescues are also already vaccinated as well as neutered/spayed
• Not all of them will have difficult behavioral problems. Most just want to find them forever home.

Cons

• You must evaluate whether you can or cannot provide for the dog’s needs. Some shelter dogs can’t be homed in places with other dogs or pets as they may become anxious or aggressive. Others need plenty of space with access to a garden for fresh air and alone time due to being easily overwhelmed.
• Depending on their history, which may or maybe not be attainable, you risk getting a dog with behavioral issues. Occasionally, they may be defensive, but shelter dogs are typically more anxious due to past trauma.
• Trailing on from the previous point, some dogs can be possessive, particularly over toys or food. This may result from having to fight for or defend their food from others in the past due to a lack of it.
• Purebreed dogs rarely get put into shelters, so when you think you could be getting an American Pit Bull Terrier, you may get a mixed breed. This won’t be a problem to some, but it can be difficult to pinpoint what breeds they may be intertwined with, making identifying potential health risks hard in the future.
• You may find it immensely difficult to find Pit Bull puppies in a shelter, as most tend to be adults.

Before we sum up, we don’t intend to repelling aspiring dog owners from adopting. Adopting can be a wonderful and rewarding experience, but evaluating whether you can provide for a rescue before you go in and make the decision is important.

Summary – Pitbull Pros and Cons

So if you’re wondering, ‘should I get a Pit Bull?’ the choice is ultimately up to you. Getting a dog is a big decision and one that shouldn’t be made overnight. Take the time to mill over the information and ensure you’re prepared to take on another family member.

If you haven’t already, maybe consider the topics below to help guide you toward a decision:

• How will other pets respond to a new puppy?
• Can I provide everything they need from the minute they are brought home?
• Do I plan to make any home changes that might affect their well-being?

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Scooting in dogs is pretty common and not something you will necessarily need to speak to a veterinary professional about.

But it is important to get to the bottom of the problem if you pardon the pun!

If you catch your dog scooting on the floor, then there are several things you can do. In this article, we will look at the main reasons why dogs scoot and the possible causes. We have also answered your most commonly asked questions regarding dog scooting, so by the end, you will have a clearer idea of how to treat your pup if your dog continues to scoot.

Why Do Dogs Scoot?

If your dog is scooting, then the most likely reason why they are doing this is that they have an itchy rear end. A dirty bottom can cause itching, and this is probably the easiest problem to solve as you just need to ensure that your dog’s bottom is clean.

If in doubt, you should always consult your local veterinary clinic for advice.

The following conditions can also cause your dog to scoot…

Fecal Contamination

If remnants of poop are on or around your dog’s anus, this can cause issues for your canine companion. This can especially occur after a bout of diarrhea or constipation, where your dog’s poop has matted and become stuck around their anal area. A dog’s rear end is sensitive, so this can cause significant itching for your pup. If your dog drags its bottom along the floor, then the first thing you should do is check to see how clean the dog’s rear end is. If it looks a little dirty, gently clean your dog’s bottom with warm water and a soft cloth. If your dog is groomed professionally, ask your groomer to keep the fur around this area neat and short to prevent any future skin irritation.

Anal Sac Glands

Let’s talk about the anal gland, also known as the anal sac. Often anal gland issues are the main cause of dog scooting, and male and female dogs can suffer from anal gland issues. A dog has two small anal sacs on either side of their anus. These glands play an important role in your dog’s bodily function as it releases a scent to other dogs – essentially, it’s how dogs communicate with one another. Every time your dog poops, their anal gland releases a liquid – the problem is that a dog’s anal sacs are prone to blockages.

You’ll likely know when this is happening for your dog as they will pay a lot of attention to this area, licking their rear end more often and scooting across the floor. If your dog isn’t doing this persistently, then it’s likely that they may have cleared the blockage manually, but it’s not likely that they can do this and will need help to do this manually. Full anal glands can be manually “expressed” by a professional groomer or veterinary professional. Blocked glands can easily lead to infection, anal gland impaction, and anal gland abscesses, so be sure to consult an expert as soon as possible if you suspect this is a problem for your dog.

Worms

Another common cause of dog scooting after pooping is worms. The three common worms that regularly affect dogs are tapeworm, roundworm, and lungworm.

Lungworm and roundworm can be pretty serious if not detected early, but the chances are that it’s a tapeworm that is causing itching around the rectum. These intestinal parasites are long and flat and live in the small intestine relatively undetected. If they break off (which is pretty common), they make their way through the anus, causing severe itching. You may even notice pieces in your dog’s poop.

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How Do Dogs Catch Worms?

Tapeworms are passed through ingesting undercooked or raw meat, ingesting worm-infested fleas, or grooming another pet with worms. They can grow a staggering 28 inches long and cause great discomfort for your dog. Luckily worms are super easy to treat – ask your veterinarian for advice.

Rectal Prolapse

A prolapse can is characterized by an interior part of the anus protruding through the outside of the sphincter. This can be a serious issue if not detected earlier, but luckily, it’s easily treatable. If your dog is scooting and licking the area, then this may be the cause.

If you suspect your dog has a prolapse, consult your vet, who may suggest a change in your dog’s diet, stool softening medication, or surgery.

Wounds

An open sore or wound around the anus can become super itchy and be the main cause of scooting in dogs. If your dog has had recent surgery, then they may need a distraction so that they do not scoot or scratch the area. Constipation can also cause your dog to scoot – if this is frequently happening, then speak to your vet about stool softeners or maybe switching to a high-fiber diet or taking fiber supplements.

Tumors

Whether or not they are benign or malignant, tumors can cause skin irritation on the dog’s skin around its anus. Suppose your dog is scooting and they have had a recent worm treatment and don’t seem to be displaying any other signs or symptoms on this list. In that case, it’s worth speaking to a veterinary professional who will be able to look at your dog and rule out all possible causes.

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