7 Human Foods That Are Safe for Cats to Enjoy

7 Human Foods That Are Safe for Cats to Enjoy

Our cats are more like family to us than mere pets. We love them, and they make us as happy as human children make their parents. No matter what people say, they’re undoubtedly the best! But all this said, caring for a cat is a big responsibility. You can feed your feline friend from your plate, but be cautious because some human foods are unhealthy for cats. Below, we’ve listed seven safe options to consider. Fish This is an easy one. You might know how much Garfield loves tuna, and your little kitty will be no different. Salmon, crab, tuna, and herring are fish you can eat and share with your pet. Fish have healthy omega-3 fatty acids, an essential nutrient for keeping cats healthy. Omega-3s are all the more important if your kitten is growing. But always ensure fish is well-cooked and not excessively seasoned. Uncooked fish has pathogens that affect you and can also be dangerous to cats. Oatmeal A lesser-discussed human food that’s cat-safe is oatmeal. This pasty food, a rich source of energy and vitamin B, could be a good breakfast option for you and your pet cat. But though oatmeal is ideal to start the day, not all felines like it.
Read Article
11 healthy human foods for dogs

11 healthy human foods for dogs

Taking care of animals, such as pet dogs, is one of the most rewarding things an individual can do. Most pet parents go out of their way to ensure their dogs get the healthiest and most delicious food available.  This includes feeding them various products, including wet and dry dog foods. While these benefit dogs, a pet parent must also feed them fresh produce and specific meats to manage their overall health. 1. Honey Honey has several health benefits; it is rich in multiple nutrients, including vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and K. It is also abundant in calcium, potassium, copper, magnesium, and antioxidants. Giving pets small amounts of honey may help with allergies, as it introduces small amounts of pollen to the system, subsequently building immunity to local allergens. 2. Bone broth Bone broth is one of the healthiest foods for dogs and one that they truly enjoy. The broth is created by simmering bones on a low flame with apple cider vinegar for long hours. The process slowly breaks down the nutrients, making them highly bioavailable to the pet’s body. Bone broth can help improve digestion and heal a “leaky gut.” It can also improve liver health, reduce inflammation, and alleviate joint pain.
Read Article
8 tips for buying the best dog foods

8 tips for buying the best dog foods

With a plethora of options available for dog foods, it can be confusing to figure out which one is the right option for one’s pet. From choosing to go the traditional route of buying kibbles to picking trendy raw food marketed on social media, pet owners are often overwhelmed by the decision. In such situations, it is helpful to know about the various aspects that need to be considered while buying the best dog foods. 1. Check the package for an AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement One of the easiest ways to determine if a package of dog food will give complete nutrition is to look for the AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement.  The AAFCO, or Association of American Feed Control Officials  (AAFCO), has established nutritional standards for pet foods. While the AAFCO does not conduct any testing on dog foods, brands can put the AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement on their product packages only if they have third-party feeding tests and laboratory analyses to verify that the products meet the AAFCO nutrient profiles. So, dog food packages that come with AAFCO’s nutritional adequacy statement are considered to be complete and balanced foods. These fulfill the minimum requirement of essential nutrients in proper proportions.
Read Article
12 mistakes to avoid when adopting a dog

12 mistakes to avoid when adopting a dog

Adopting a dog is incredibly rewarding. It keeps people active and provides them with a sense of companionship. It also offers a lifeline to the millions of animals eagerly awaiting their forever homes. Around two million dogs in the country find new families through shelter adoption annually, proving how much of an impact these lovable pets can have on a person. But although adopting a dog has benefits, one should avoid mistakes during the process. Impulse adoption Bringing home a dog on a whim without proper consideration can lead to challenges down the road. Before adopting, individuals should take time to assess their lifestyle, living conditions, and whether they can meet the needs of a pet. Evaluating the dog’s size, energy level, and temperament is also crucial to ensure a good match. Not researching breeds Each dog breed has unique characteristics, temperament, and care requirements, so researching them is important. Doing so allows one to choose a dog that suits their lifestyle and preferences. Individuals should consider the breed’s grooming requirements, exercise needs, and compatibility with children or other pets. Not meeting the dog Meeting pets in person before adoption is crucial for assessing compatibility. People should spend more time interacting and playing with the dog to observe its behavior, energy level, and responsiveness.
Read Article
15 Human Foods That Are Safe and Healthy for Dogs

15 Human Foods That Are Safe and Healthy for Dogs

Pet parents leave no stone unturned to ensure their pet’s good health. Purchasing premium pet foods, pet-proofing the home, and taking their pets for vet visits are just some of the measures pet parents take to keep their pets healthy. Nutrition is one of the most essential aspects determining a dog’s general well-being. In addition to specific dog foods available on the market, certain human foods can also provide dogs with the required nourishment: Chicken Most dogs will surely enjoy a simple yet satisfying meal of boiled chicken and rice. Boiled chicken can serve as an excellent low-fat meal for dogs, providing them with their daily dose of protein and helping with muscle and bone health. However, eating chicken in its raw form is not advisable, as it can increase the risk of salmonella and other bacterial infections. It is also best to avoid adding spices and salt to the chicken meal, as these can result in digestive issues like diarrhea and vomiting. Plain boiled chicken, preferably with some boiled rice, is the best bet for a sumptuous meal for one’s pooch. Eggs Eggs are rich sources of protein, fatty acids, and vitamins A, B2, and B12, making them a healthy breakfast option for dogs.
Read Article
Ways to Decode Canine Communication with Humans

Ways to Decode Canine Communication with Humans

Humans tend to rely on verbal modes when communicating with each other. On the other hand, dogs communicate primarily via body language and secondarily through vocalizations. While having a dog whisperer would take the guesswork out of the situation, understanding inter-species communication is not as straightforward. Therefore, when deciphering what is being communicated, you must observe the entire dog (tail carriage/motion, facial expressions, body position, etc.) and the situation or context. Looking for non-verbal cues: Since dogs cannot vocalize their feelings, they may use the following non-verbal cues for our benefit: Tail Tail wagging is the most obvious sign to observe. However, it may not always mean the dog is happy, friendly, or excited. Remember to look for other cues to understand their mood. Here are some general tail motions that can help decipher how your dog is feeling: A curled tail could be a relaxation, confidence, or dominance stance. A straight, stiff tail generally signals that the dog is focused on an activity or tracking something. A tucked or lowered tail is a sign of fear or submission. Ears Isn’t it adorable watching a dog’s ears perk up? Their ears are also an important part of communication! Perky ears are generally a sign of interest and focus, while floppy ears are a sign of submission.
Read Article
Avoid these 13 toxic foods for dogs

Avoid these 13 toxic foods for dogs

A dog’s physical well-being is every dog parent’s ultimate objective. Today, with increasing awareness of pet care and nutrition, a wide range of dog foods that perfectly balance taste and nutrition are available in the market. Understanding a dog’s nutritional needs that cater to them effectively can help dog owners facilitate their pooches’ overall health. In addition, one should also be aware of certain products that can cause toxicity to dogs. Some of them are: Chocolate Chocolate comprises theobromine, a toxic substance that can cause several adverse reactions in dogs, including internal bleeding, hyperactivity, seizures, tremors, and sometimes even a stroke. Even a small portion of chocolate can prove toxic, so it should be avoided. Raisins and grapes All grapes – including cooked, seedless, peeled, and dried – can increase a dog’s risk of developing kidney or renal failure. Even consuming one grape can cause severe toxicity among dogs, though studies have failed to determine the exact substance in grapes that causes this toxicity. Dairy Dairy items may not be directly harmful or toxic to dogs. However, some dogs are lactose intolerant and cannot process the sugar found in dairy products. Milk and its by-products, such as cheese, yogurt, or ice cream, can cause diarrhea and other related problems in such dogs.
Read Article
11 wholesome homemade treats for pet dogs

11 wholesome homemade treats for pet dogs

Our canine companions are more than just pets; they’re cherished members of our families. Ensuring their health and happiness is paramount, and food is a crucial aspect of their well-being. Homemade treats offer a personalized touch, allowing us to cater to our furry friends’ specific tastes and nutritional needs. Including natural ingredients like fresh fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains ensures that dogs not only savor the flavor but also reap the nutritional benefits. Here are a few homemade dog treat recipes that are delicious and wholesome: 1. Peanut butter and banana bites Pet parents can pamper their furry children with these delectable peanut butter and banana bites. This delightful treat combines the rich, nutty flavor of natural peanut butter with the natural sweetness of a ripe banana. Not only do these treats taste amazing, but they also pack a punch in terms of nutrition. Bananas are a great source of potassium, essential for maintaining proper heart function in dogs. Additionally, natural peanut butter provides a healthy dose of protein and healthy fats. Whole wheat flour offers a good fiber source, promoting healthy digestion. These treats are simple and sure to become a staple. 2. Sweet potato chews For a treat that’s both tasty and healthy, look no further than these sweet potato chews.
Read Article