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Cat Care
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Your Cat's Age in Human Years
3 mins read
According to popular legend, one human year is the equivalent of seven ‘cat years’, but in reality, a one-year-old cat is much more mature than a seven-year-old child. How old is my cat in human years? Although there’s no reliable scientific way to calculate the relationship between human and cat years, it’s generally agreed that the first two years of a cat’s life are roughly equal to the first 25 of a human’s. After this, each additional year is around four ‘cat years’. This means if your cat is six years old, their equivalent cat age in human years will be around 41. Find out how old your feline friend is using ourcat age calculator Don’t worry, we’ve done all the math for you! Check our calculator at the bottom of the page and find out your cat’s age in human years at a glance. What is the average life expectancy of my cat? The true answer is that it depends, but indoor cats usually live longer than outdoor cats. On average, indoor cats live 16 to 18 years and some even reach the venerable age of 20. Life expectancy in cats also varies depending on the breed, as some cat breeds will naturally live longer than others. For example, Siamese and Manx breeds are said to live the longest, so could reach a ripe age in human years! Did you know that according to some sources, the world’s oldest cat lived to be 34? That’s 153 in cat years! Read more fascinating cat facts here. Cats’ life expectancies have increased dramatically in the last few decades. Although it’s never enough, we’re spending more and more time together with our feline friends and that can only be a great thing. How can I tell my cat’s age? To find out how old your cat is, it’s best to take them to a vet. But you can still look for tell-tale signs of a cat’s age and health. Teeth Teeth can’t pinpoint the exact date for your feline friend’s birthday party, but they are still a great indicator of a cat’s age. The milestones are: • A kitten’s first teeth appear between two to four weeks. • Their permanent white teeth come in at around four months. • Yellow stains (aka tartar) on a few teeth can mean your cat might be between one or two years old. • If the stains appear on all teeth, the cat is likely at least three to five years old. • Missing teeth are usually a sign that your cat is a respectable senior, between 10 to 15 years of age. • But keep in mind that some cats can just have worse teeth than others regardless of their age.
Senior Care
8 Cat Myths and Misconceptions
8 Cat Myths and Misconceptions
5 mins read
Over the years, cats have baffled just about everyone – from owners to behaviourists and even scientists. Because of their mysterious nature, there are numerous cat myths and rumours that are commonly believed, but just how true are they? Cats are enigmatic creatures that many people struggle to understand. Over the years, this has seen our furry friends shrouded in a variety of myths, including some outlandish rumours that even reported that they were in league with the devil! The majority of cat myths have since been debunked thanks to science and lashings of common sense. Keep reading to find out the truth behind the butter on cats’ paws rumour, if black cats are bad luck and more. 1. The truth behind the black cat myth The black cat myth is perhaps one of the most common tales out there and chances are you’ve heard someone telling this story. In the UK, Europe and most of America if a black cat crosses your path, people claim it means bad luck is coming your way. In Germany, however, it’s direction specific and if a black cat crosses from right to left it means bad luck, but if the cat moves left to right it’s actually considered good luck. Additionally, in Japan it’s actually thought to be very lucky, especially for single women as a black cat promises good suitors are on the way. Debunked: The black cat myth is, of course, untrue and likely came about due to the fact that black cats were thought to be the pets of witches in medieval times. Unfortunately, this rumour is still quite widely believed today and black cats frequently find their way to rescue centres or have difficulty finding new homes. 2. Saved by a cat’s whisker A cat’s whiskers almost seem to give them super powers, so it’s only natural that people came to assume that these were good luck charms. So much so in fact, there’s a popular cat myth that if you put a whisker in a white bag and place it in your car it will help to prevent accidents, theft and breakdowns – some people even claim it can help you avoid speeding and parking tickets! Debunked: While we really wanted to believe this one, the cat whisker myth is not true and probably came about because cats so rarely lose their whiskers. 3. Cats were responsible for the plague Yep, you heard that right. In the middle ages people thought that cats were responsible for spreading the plague. This was due to the fact that they thought cats were in league with witches, warlocks and ultimately, the devil. Many people in the middle ages believed that the devil was to blame for all the horror of the black death and they began destroying ‘his loyal servants’ – cats. Debunked: It was actually a type of flea that lived on rats that spread the plague. Funnily enough, the destruction of cats meant that the rat population thrived, and the Black Death spread faster than ever.
Behaviour & Training
Cat Dental Care
Cat Dental Care
3 mins read
Dental disease in cats is one of the most common conditions seen by vets today. It can also be very painful, especially if left untreated. However, the good news is that – unlike many health problems – it is usually preventable through proper dental care for cats.
Health
Feeding & Nutrition
Cat Fleas: Causes, Prevention and Treatment
Cat Fleas: Causes, Prevention and Treatment
5 mins read
Cat fleas are very normal, and they’re the most common reason for a cat to develop a skin problem. Introduction to cat fleas The most common type of flea found on cats is the cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis), but rabbit and hedgehog fleas can also show an interest in your cat! Flea bites are itchy for all cats, and can lead to some developing allergies (known as flea-allergic dermatitis). As if fleas weren’t pesky enough, they can also provide a thriving environment for certain types of tapeworm, and heavy infestations can cause anaemia in kittens. However there’s no need to worry, as there are a number of different cat flea prevention options for you to look at. What are cat fleas? Cats are excellent groomers, so it might be tough to imagine your preened pet catching parasites! The most obvious sign that your cat has fleas is persistent scratching, or sometimes over-grooming, which can result in bald patches on their coat. If your cat develops a flea allergy they may also have scabs and red, sore areas on their skin. Regularly grooming your cat won’t necessarily prevent parasites, but it will at let you have a chance to check their fur for any signs of unwanted visitors, so that you can quickly seek treatment. Cat fleas are dark brown and 1-2mm long. You might spot them in your carpet or notice tiny black specks of flea waste in your cat’s fur during combing. A good way to test for fleas is to put these black specks onto some damp tissue paper – if it is from a flea, the specks will turn red because of the digested blood they contain. Fleas thrive in warm, humid environments, which means late summer is the peak season for fleas on cats, however central heating in the cold season means that flea prevention is a must all you round.
Health
How to Groom a Kitten
7 mins read
Although your cat is beautiful, they are so much more than a pretty face. Not only do they have a stunning coat, but they’re biologically designed to look after them. Their rough tongues act like mini brushes, removing dead hair and distributing oils through their coat. They’re also smart enough to know that when these biological grooming aids are not enough – for example, if they get fur-balls or tangles – you can be counted on to help. Kitten grooming Kitten grooming isn't just about making your feline look fancy - it removes dead hair, keeps their coat and skin healthy, helps you build an intimate bond, and gives you the opportunity to check their overall health. Grooming is an important part of looking after kittens, but thanks to their softer, fluffier and shorter coats, it should take next to no time to do, compared to adults. If you can get your kitten used to regular grooming from a young age, it will make life much easier for both of you in the future. The good news is that most cats love the gentle attention of being groomed, and as soon as they see a brush or comb in your hand, they’ll usually come running for the fuss. Brushing your kitten Long vs. short coats How thoroughly and how often you’ll end up brushing your kitten usually depends on their type of coat. A short-coated cat will usually only need a quick 'once-over' weekly while a long-coated breed will need daily attention with the right type of equipment - ask your breeder or a groomer for advice on specific coat types.
Kitten Care
Bathing Cats: Everything You Need to Know
Bathing Cats: Everything You Need to Know
2 mins read
Cats don’t usually need baths, but there are some exceptional circumstances. If they’re rolled in something that they can’t wash off themselves, or they have long hair which has become matted, a bath might be a good idea. Most cats really dislike baths and they can find the experience very stressful. If you’re able to, just clean an isolated area, rather than getting their entire body wet. That said, there are rare occasions when bathing your cat is unavoidable, in which case there are ways to make the experience more comfortable for both of you. However, if your cat needs a bath because they’ve come into contact with toxic substances, take them to the vet first. Before you bathe your cat Get everything you need in one place, so that once you’ve started bathing your cat, everything is within easy reach. You’ll need: • A large plastic bucket, sink or bath (lined with a non-slip floor mat) to use as a cat bath. • Specialist cat or kitten shampoo. Find a mild all-rounder with no harsh chemicals or perfumes. Never use human shampoo, as it’s unsuitable for cat hair and skin due to the difference in p H levels. • A cat conditioner if required. Again, don’t use conditioner for human hair. • A towel or two. • A brush to help remove matts and knots. Bathing your cat
Health
Behaviour & Training
Sleeping Arrangements for a Kitten’s First Night Home
4 mins read
Sleeping Arrangements for a Kitten’s First Night Home Teaser: A kitten’s first night in a new home is likely one of the biggest challenges they have ever faced. Here are a few things to know and what you can do to help your new kitten sleep peacefully through the night. Welcoming a new kitten home can be nerve-wracking for both the owners and the felines involved. While we’re fretting over which cupboard is best for keeping the cat food and which local veterinary practice to choose, the kitten has a whole set of different concerns to deal with. There are new people to meet and new sights and smells everywhere. Their new home looks nothing like the one they lived in until not so long ago and there’s no sight of their mum and littermates. In short, everything is different and a bit scary. Then just as they’re getting settled, night time arrives and they are left to sleep all alone in this new, strange house. A kitten’s first night home can be challenging but there are plenty of things a cat owner can do to help your little ball of fur settle in quickly.
Kitten Care
Is My Cat a Senior Yet?
4 mins read
Your cat is an important part of your family, and we understand that it’s not nice to think of your fluffy companion getting older. As felines don’t get fine lines and wrinkles like us, the signs of old age in cats aren’t always obvious. Changes in your cat are most likely to start on the inside as they approach their golden years, and they will gradually age like we do. But there are a few tell-tale signs you should be aware of. We explore them, next. At what age is a cat considered senior? Although cats are considered to be of old age from when they reach 7 years old, some felines will be showing off their kitten-like antics well into their mature years. Because there’s no exact age when your pet changes into a senior cat, you have to look out for particular signs instead. Signs of an old cat If your cat is not a spring chicken anymore, it’s natural to wonder what to expect when your pet becomes elderly and whether that moment hasn’t actually arrived. Elderly cats are very similar to humans in old age and will experience changes in their physical and mental abilities as years go by. Here are some of the most common signs that your cat is now a senior: Loss of agility One of the first things you will notice is a lower level of energy than usual. Of course, this could be also due to a medical problem, so it’s always best to check with your vet whenever you notice big changes in your cat’s behaviour. But expect your cat to enjoy living life in the slow lane as they get closer to senior status. Changes in their play time routine Play time for elderly cats will likely be comprised of shorter sessions, less energetic chases and more walking around the house or climbing cat trees. Depending on your cat’s health, you may need to adjust some of the usual games and bring them down to a slower pace, but don’t think play time is over once your feline reaches the golden years. Your vet will be able to advise on a level of activity that is suitable for your pet and will keep them well-entertained no matter the age. Different sleeping patterns Changes in the sleeping routine can also be a sign of an old cat. Whether your cat is waking up and vocalising in the middle of the night, or on the contrary, starts enjoying a shut eye more than usual, a cat’s sleeping habits could be the giveaway for old age. Increased disorientation Cats are not particularly aloof creatures. Their feline DNA keeps them in tune with their environment well into their senior years. So when all of a sudden your cat starts getting confused while doing simple tasks such as finding their food bowl or getting to their bed, this disorientation can be caused by a cognitive decline relate to ageing in elderly cats. In this case as well it is recommended to discuss the unusual behaviour with the vet. Changes in body condition and weight Weight fluctuations can also be a sign that your cat should start getting the senior treatment. Usually their metabolism slows down and as the amount of exercise decreases with age, you can expect to see your feline frame getting larger than usual. On the other end of the spectrum, some cats might suffer weight loss due to dental problems, also common in old age. You can check your cat’s body condition at home using these simple steps and get plenty of clues about your pet’s health and weight. Changes in behaviour You can find many signs of an old cat in their behaviour as well. They get a bit rusty when it comes to using the litter box and the frequency of accidents increases. They might not groom themselves as thorough as before. Or might even become moodier and less tolerant of changes in their environment. Many cats become less able to cope with stress as they age, so if you want to find out more about how you can manage cat anxiety, our guide is a good start.
Senior Care
Cat First Aid
Cat First Aid
6 mins read
There’s nothing scarier than when our pets are unwell or hurt and we often naturally go into a panic as we don’t know what to do. At Purina, we’ve created this guide to cat first aid to help you keep your pet calm and comfortable until you can reach your veterinarian. Our cats are explorers at heart, whether it’s climbing the tree in the back garden or wandering off to investigate another cat ’s territory. Unfortunately, this love of adventure can sometimes land them in trouble and you may find yourself in need of some cat first aid skills. At Purina, we’ve put together this guide of essential cat first aid tips so you can provide help straight away, giving you valuable time until you can get them to your vet. How to tell if a cat is in pain Cats are very secretive creatures and because of this we don’t always know if they’re in pain, so it can be hard to know when they need cat first aid. While it will largely depend on the specific illness or injury your pet has, a few of the most common cat illness or sickness symptoms they’ll display are as follows: • Hiding, such as in a dark place or in their cat igloo • Rapid and shallow breathing • Growling, hissing or crying • Aggression both towards people and other pets in the home • Sleeping more often • Lack of appetite • Obsessive licking of a particular area • Lack of self-grooming • Reluctance to move or engage in cat or kitten play • Change in toileting • Limping or difficulty getting around Cat first aid When your cat is in pain or suffering, knowing how to react can often make a huge difference. You’ll need to try and keep a level head and take deep breaths and remain calm, as your cat will likely be stressed and scared. The last thing you’ll want to do in an emergency situation is to make it worse by panicking, as cats are masters of sensing how we’re feeling. The first thing you should do is contact your vet. By phoning them they’ll be able to prepare for your arrival, and if it’s an emergency they may try and talk you through some basic cat first aid via the phone too. Never give your cat medicines intended for human use as these may be poisonous and cause an adverse reaction.
Kitten Care
Health
Bathing Cats: Everything You Need to Know
Bathing Cats: Everything You Need to Know
2 mins read
Cats don’t usually need baths, but there are some exceptional circumstances. If they’re rolled in something that they can’t wash off themselves, or they have long hair which has become matted, a bath might be a good idea. Most cats really dislike baths and they can find the experience very stressful. If you’re able to, just clean an isolated area, rather than getting their entire body wet. That said, there are rare occasions when bathing your cat is unavoidable, in which case there are ways to make the experience more comfortable for both of you. However, if your cat needs a bath because they’ve come into contact with toxic substances, take them to the vet first. Before you bathe your cat Get everything you need in one place, so that once you’ve started bathing your cat, everything is within easy reach. You’ll need: • A large plastic bucket, sink or bath (lined with a non-slip floor mat) to use as a cat bath. • Specialist cat or kitten shampoo. Find a mild all-rounder with no harsh chemicals or perfumes. Never use human shampoo, as it’s unsuitable for cat hair and skin due to the difference in p H levels. • A cat conditioner if required. Again, don’t use conditioner for human hair. • A towel or two. • A brush to help remove matts and knots. Bathing your cat
Health
Behaviour & Training
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Dog Care
Explore All
Wet or Dry Dog Food?
Wet or Dry Dog Food?
4 mins read
Most dogs love nothing more thanmeal time! As soon as you open theirfavouritefood they’ll run in with their tails wagging, whether they’re eating a dry kibble or a wet food. Both wet and dry dog foods are nutritionally complete andbalanced, andwill provide your canine friend with everything they need for their health and happiness. But you might have wondered what the benefits are, and which your dog will prefer. • What is the difference between wet and dry dog food? • Which one is 'better'? • How can you choose between them? Read on to find out more, and help you decide whether your dog will prefer wet or dry dog food. Wetdogfood contains more water Wetdogfood, of course, contains more water than dry kibble. This means that each meal will appear slightly larger, meaning there’s ‘more’ for your dog to eat, and each meal will last longer too. This water is also a small source of hydration, which is helpful if your dog doesn’t drink as much as they should. Even so, if you serve wet food ensure they always have a bowl of clean fresh water on hand! Many types of wet food also come in portion sizes, such as individual cans or pouches, which makes serving your dog very easy.
Feeding & Nutrition
Dog Allergies: Symptoms, Triggers and Treatment
5 mins read
Just like us, our dogs can suffer from certain allergies. Discover what the most common dog allergies are and how they’re diagnosed with Purina. Dog allergies are a reaction to foreign substances in your dog’s immune system – which is the same cause of allergic reactions in humans! Unfortunately, where it’s relatively simple to diagnose allergies in humans, it’s usually quite difficult for dogs as there are many different types of allergies and the symptoms often overlap. This makes it hard to understand which allergies they’re actually suffering from. If you suspect that your dog may be suffering from allergies, you may be wondering about the potential dog allergy symptoms and when to seek help from your vet. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know. Dog skin allergies Skin allergies, also known as allergic dermatitis is one of the most common types of dog allergies. These are usually caused by reactions to flea bites or their surrounding environment such as pollen, dust or mould.
Health
Puppy Training Advice and Tips
4 mins read
In all the excitement of bringing your new puppy home, it’s important to remember to start their training right away. The sooner you introduce good habits, the better it will be for both of you as your puppy beings to understand basic commands and gets to grips with your house rules. Puppy training doesn’t just improve their manners; it’s a fun and rewarding way for you to spend quality time together and really helps you strengthen your bond. Most dogs love training – it’s a chance for them to challenge their brains, earn rewards and get lots of praise and attention! Teach your puppy their name Puppy training should begin the day they arrive in your new home. Start by helping them to get to know their name. Use it every time you play with them, feed them or cuddle them and they’ll soon recognise it and respond when called. Once they know their name, you can use it to communicate with them and start training your puppy.
Puppy Care
10 Facts About Puppies
3 mins read
We all love puppies, right? It’s near impossible for any dog lover not to, surely. Wriggly, fluffy, loving and extremely cute – why wouldn’t you love them? We adore the little rascals – and they’re not just adorable; they’re interesting, too. Read on to find out some of our favourite facts about puppies. 1. Born helpless You might expect puppies to be helpless when they’re born. (They’re babies, after all!) But did you know that they’re effectively born deaf and blind, with no teeth? It’s one of our favourite puppy facts! Even the famous canine sense of smell isn’t active when a puppy is born, and their eyes and ears are closed. Their eyes open when they are between 10 and 14 days old, with eyesight fully developing at about 7 weeks. 2. The first sense to develop is touch Born without most of their senses fully developed, the first sense that puppies develop is touch. Almost from the very moment they are born, a puppy’s mother will lick and nuzzle them, stimulating their sense of touch. Touch continues to be important for your puppy throughout their lives. 3. Puppies can be twins There are often many puppies in a litter, each genetically unique – but did you know that puppies can be twins? The first confirmed case of this was recorded in South Africa in 2016, with vet Kurt de Cramer delivering them via Caesarean section. Although it’s possible that there have been other unconfirmed cases of genetically identical canine twins, this was the first officially recorded instance of identical puppies being born. 4. They have baby teeth Another interesting puppy fact is that they lose their first set of teeth – meaning that these could (adorably) be called baby teeth. Your puppy’s baby teeth will be replaced with adult teeth at about 4 months of age. 5. Their coat colour may change as they grow A bit like humans, the colour of puppies’ coats may change as they get older. Patches of colour can shift and grow, and how they do so can depend on breed. Dalmatians, for instance, don’t develop their famous spots until they are two or three weeks old. If your pup is purebred, then you’ll be able to more or less predict their appearance through how their parents look, but for crossbred or mixed breed pups, it can prove more complicated.
Puppy Care
Teaching Dogs and Puppies to Swim: A Guide
5 mins read
Can all dogs swim? While a lot of dogs have the ability to paddle in water, not all dogs can swim proficiently. There are, of course, dogs that take to the water like ducks and enjoy splashing around, but there also those who feel scared and do not know how to stay afloat. But don’t worry – all dogs can learn to swim. In this article, we will explore how to teach your dog how to swim. It’s a simple process that may take some time, but if you do it properly you will have your dog paddling about in the water and eager to play in no time. At what age should I teach a puppy to swim? If you take a lot of hikes around lakes or spend time at the beach, you may want to start teaching your puppy to swim early. It is best to check with your vet on what age they recommend teaching your pup. This may depend on the breed and your dog’s personality, so it is best to get expert advice.
Behaviour & Training
Common Dog Digestive Problems
Common Dog Digestive Problems
8 mins read
Your dog’s digestive system can normally look after itself, as long as it is getting the right food and nutrition. But even with your care it can sometimes encounter unexpected problems. Your dog loves the nutritious food and occasional treats you give them – a great meal time is all part of their fun and active lifestyle! When their food is such a source of excitement for them and a pleasure for you, it can be easy to forget about keeping an eye on their digestive health. But there’s no need to worry – many of these problems are easily solved through a change in diet. Keep reading to find out about keeping your dog’s digestive health in order, and common problems to look out for. General dog digestive health Your dog’s digestive system is fairly hardy (just think what they’d eat if they were allowed!), but it’s a good idea to monitor their appetite anyway. As well as what you feed them, remember that your family and friends naturally love giving your dog a bit of extra fuss, attention and treats too! Here are some general tips for feeding your dog: • Your dog will enjoy a good quality, complete dog food most, as not only will it have the right balance of nutrients, a good level of palatability will ensure they really enjoy it. • Tempting as it is, adding human food to a nutritionally complete and balanced commercial dog food can cause digestive problems in dogs. • Your dog probably knows all kinds of tricks to persuade you to give them table scraps! Firmly but kindly ignore ‘begging behaviour’ for additional food. • When your dog is focused on getting table scraps, give lots of hugs, praise and playtime instead, which you’re both able to enjoy! • It’s best to feed your dog at regular scheduled times. Use the correct amount of food to maintain your dog’s optimum body condition so they stay in tip-top shape. To find out more, check out our guide to feeding adult dogs. General causes of digestive disorders in dogs In an ideal world our dogs don’t have any problems with their digestive systems, but of course you can’t always prevent illness.
Health
Feeding & Nutrition
Dog Brain Games
Dog Brain Games
4 mins read
Classic games like ‘fetch’ are lots of fun for you and your dog, but exercise isn’t just about running around. Mental exercise is important too, as it can help fight boredom and teach your dog great new skills. Dog brain games can help keep your pet on their toes when it’s too rainy to play outside. They’re also great for dogs of any age – brain games for puppies challenge their developing brains and keep them learning new skills. They can also help keep adult dogs stimulated and may even help senior dogs stay alert and active. We’ve put together five of our favourite brain games for dogs. 1. Treasure hunt This is a great brain game to test your dog’s thinking skills! Hide pieces of your dog’s favourite treat around the house (or if it’s nice outside, the garden) and let them hunt for a tasty reward. Your dog will have to use their nose to scent out the prize. Every time you play this dog brain game, hide the treats in increasingly difficult places to keep things interesting. If your dog loves to follow scents (for example, if you have a scent hound) try leaving a ‘trail’ around the house or garden for them to follow. Just take a delicious-smelling treat, touch it on surfaces around the house in a continuous trail, and hide it at the end. 2. Brain training toys A really simple brain game for dogs involves hiding treats inside a special toy. There are many toys you can buy for this purpose – just put some of your dog’s favourite treat inside, and watch them try to release it. This may involve rolling their toy a certain way, squeezing it, or using sheer determination. Whichever toy you choose, it will help spread their treats or food out over a longer period of time, as well as keeping them occupied.
Behaviour & Training
Colitis in Dogs: Symptoms and Treatment
Colitis in Dogs: Symptoms and Treatment
4 mins read
Colitis in dogs is a condition that can cause your four-legged friend to have diarrhoea which can be quite painful, but luckily, with the correct treatment, colitis can go away relatively quickly. Find out all you need to know about the possible symptoms and the treatment options with this guide. There are numerous conditions which may cause your four-legged friend to have diarrhoea, one of which is colitis in dogs. This is very unpleasant for them and can make it painful to go to the toilet, so it’s important that veterinary help is sought as soon as possible for diagnosis and prompt treatment. If you suspect your dog has colitis, keep reading to find out about the symptoms of colitis in dogs and the current treatment options available. What is colitis in dogs? Colitis in dogs is a condition that refers to the inflammation of the large intestine or colon. It will commonly display as diarrhoea or loose stools which will usually contain fresh blood and mucus. Additionally, these stools may be difficult to pass and can cause pain when toileting. What causes colitis in dogs? There are numerous possible causes of colitis in dogs, from eating anything unusual to something more long term such as irritable bowel syndrome. The most common causes are:
Health
Feeding & Nutrition
Can Dogs Eat Bread?
Can Dogs Eat Bread?
3 mins read
As humans, we eat a lot of bread on a daily basis, but can our dogs eat bread too? Find out all you need to know on whether bread is good for dogs and the types to avoid with our guide. Bread is a staple to the human diet, with most of us consuming it in some regard on a daily basis. Whether it’s toast for breakfast, sandwiches for lunch or a big slice of crusty bread to go alongside a stew or soup for dinner, it’s safe to say as a species we eat a lot of bread! As a nation of dog lovers, we love to share everything with our dogs and when they’re giving us their best puppy dog eyes as we tuck into our food, it begs the question: can dogs eat bread? We’ve put together this guide to tell you everything you need to know from is bread good for dogs to the types to avoid. Can dogs eat bread? Yes and no. Dogs can eat small amounts of plain white or brown bread, but it should be only given as the very occasional treat. There are some types which may be toxic to your pup and will contain added extras such as nuts – macadamia nuts are toxic and all nuts are high in fat, which isn’t good for dogs. Plus, breads with chocolate chips, raisins, onions, garlic and some dessert bread may also contain xylitol, so always be sure to double-check the ingredients first.
Feeding & Nutrition
Health
Harmful Substances and Foods for Dogs
5 mins read
There are many common foods that dogs can’t eat and non-food substances, including plants, which are potentially poisonous. Some of these you’ll know, while others might come as a surprise. Many foods, medicines and plants which are safe for humans, can be toxic to our pets. In fact, some common household items can be life-threatening for dogs. We’ve put together this comprehensive guide so you can learn about poisonous foods for dogs, which plants to avoid and what chemicals to always keep out of reach of your four-legged friend. Some of the items on this list may surprise you! What foods can'tdogs eat? We all love to treat our pups to the occasional treat! While some human foods are fine in moderation, others should be avoided entirely. Harmful foods for dogs include: Certain fruits and vegetables Many fruits and vegetables are fine for dogs to eat in small quantities, butcan pose a choking hazard if they're notcut into small piecesand fed under supervision. However, the following foods should be avoided, and can be very toxic, even in small amounts: • Raisins. • Sultanas. • Grapes. • Onions. • Garlic. • Some kinds of wild mushrooms. Other plants that can cause toxicity in dogs when eaten in largequantitiesinclude: • Rhubarb (mainly leaves). • Potato leaves and stems. • Tomato leaves and stems. • Apple seeds, Cherry pits, Apricot pits, Peach pits, present a small risk only but can cause obstructions in the digestive system.
Feeding & Nutrition
Health
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