10 Best Indoor Rabbits

by Angela Vuckovic

Published: April 8th, 2022

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Most, if not all, pet rabbits are kept indoors. The majority of pet rabbit breeds we’ve come to cherish as our companions are vulnerable to the outside life: they are prey to bigger and predatory animals and extreme cold or warmth can endanger them. This is why keeping your bunny in an appropriate indoor enclosure, with plenty of safe time outside of it, is the best practice. It keeps your pet safe and comfortable, and also helps you build a true bond with you. When your rabbit is close to you and spends all of their time in your presence, they will grow to be more social and relaxed around you, allowing them to express their affectionate side and allow you to pet and handle them.

If you are planning to keep a rabbit as an indoor pet, there are a few factors to consider. From the space they require to their breed characteristics, you’ll have to choose carefully to make sure your pet will thrive in your care – and that you’ll get to fully enjoy their companionship. We’ve selected the 10 best indoor rabbits to make sure any owner can find a perfect match – read on to learn more about these pet bunnies.

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#1 Holland Lop Rabbit

One of the most popular indoor rabbit breeds, the Holland Lop, is best known for their floppy ears, small size, and wonderful personality. Playful, cuddly, and overall friendly rabbits, Holland Lops are a joy to be around and make lovely pets for families of all sizes. As they are classified as dwarf rabbits, they will not need an unreasonable amount of space – but be sure to provide plenty of time for play and exercise outside their enclosure, be it indoors or outside in a safe pen. They weigh 2 to 4 pounds on average and have an impressive lifespan of 7 to 14 years.

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#2 Lionhead Rabbit

These pocket-sized lions are as sweet as they are cute! Distinct for the wooly mane around their head, these bunnies have a unique look that many pet owners adore, making this indoor rabbit breed one of the most popular around. Affectionate, playful, and energetic, a Lionhead is a fun and loving pet. They adore playing and will need plenty of free space to hop around and explore. They usually weigh 2.5 to 3.5 pounds and have a life expectancy of 7 to 10 years.

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#3 Dwarf Hotot Rabbit

The unique looks of the Blanc de Hotot or Dwarf Hotot rabbit make a truly eye-catching bunny: pure white coat with pitch-black markings encircling their eyes, so much so they look like they have eyeliner on. But it’s not only their striking looks that make them popular pets, as they are sociable, sweet, and love to interact with their owners. Be it playing or a snuggle session, your Dwarf Hotot will love it! They are petite bunnies weighing only 2.5 to 3.5 pounds and have a lifespan of 7 to 10 years.

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#4 American Fuzzy Lop Rabbit

It’s difficult not to be enamored with the fluffy, cute, and miniature American Fuzzy Lop rabbit. These bunnies boast floppy ears and fuzzy wooly coats, as well as a kind-natured temperament. They are curious, easy-going, and above all affectionate with their family – and love nothing more than playing with you or with some fun rabbit toys. These are dwarf rabbits that weigh 3.5 to 4 pounds and can live anywhere from 5 to 8 years on average.

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#5 Mini Rex Rabbit

These bunnies might be diminutive in size, but the same cannot be said about their beauty! Sporting a luxurious, velvety coat as the defining trait of the breed, they are a delight to snuggle with. And they love being petted, too, as they are affectionate and calm, and love interacting with their owners. Mini Rex weighs only 3.5 to 4.5 pounds on average, so they don’t need as much space as larger breeds do. Their average lifespan is 7 to 10 years.

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#6 Dutch Rabbit

Considered to be one of the older indoor rabbit breeds, the Dutch rabbit remains a popular and cherished pet to this day. Their dark markings make them stand out from other similar breeds, and their short, glossy coat makes them low-maintenance when it comes to their grooming needs. They have a calm, docile temperament, and can be very friendly and playful once they warm up to you. Weighing 4.5 to 5 pounds on average, the Dutch rabbit is classified as a mini breed, boasting a lifespan of 5 to 8 years.

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#7 New Zealand Rabbit

If you have plenty of free space in your home and would like to share it with a bigger bunny, consider the New Zealand rabbit. These docile, even-tempered, sweet bunnies make fantastic companions for families of all sizes and have an easy-going personality that makes them quite adaptable when properly socialized. As a large breed rabbit, they usually weigh between 10 and 12 pounds and have a lifespan of 5 to 8 years.

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Polish Rabbit

This petite charmer will quickly grow on you! The Polish rabbit is a calm, docile, kind-hearted bunny that will love being showered with affection and attention. They don’t need gigantic enclosures and are generally considered easy to care for, so they are also a good choice for first-time owners. These bunnies usually live for 5 to 6 years and weigh only 2.5 to 3.5 pounds, which puts them into the dwarf category of rabbit breeds.

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#9 Himalayan Rabbit

One of the older rabbit breeds in existence, the Himalayan rabbit has a long tradition of being a beloved pet bunny. These rabbits are quite unique, both for their cylindrical body shape and white coat with contrasting markings on their feet, nose, ears, and tail. They have a calm and gentle temperament, which makes them ideal for anyone that prefers easy-going pets. A small breed rabbit, the Himalayan weighs 2.5 to 5 pounds and has a life expectancy of 5 to 8 years.

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#10 Lilac Rabbit

As their name indicates, the Lilac rabbit has only one ARBA-approved color – lilac (or lavender, if you prefer). While they are not literally purple, their gray fur has an unusual shine to them, making them appear purplish – and that’s definitely unique! These rabbits are friendly, calm, docile, and make perfect companions for adults and children both, when properly socialized. They are categorized as a medium-sized breed with their average weight being 6 to 8 pounds and a long lifespan of 9 to 12 years.

A Quick Guide to Keeping Indoor Rabbits

The idea that bunnies are the ultimate low-maintenance pet is nothing more than a myth. Sure, you might not have to take them out for walks multiple times a day like you would a dog, but that doesn’t mean that they don’t have specific needs you’ll have to meet. Like all other pets, rabbits also need a quality diet, adequate living space, plenty of exercise and playtime, and a healthy relationship with their owners.

Provide a spacious enclosure

No matter how tiny the breed of rabbit, they’ll still need a spacious enclosure to spend their time in. Nothing too cramped will do – it can seriously impact your pet’s quality of life. As a rule of thumb, their enclosure should be 4 times their size, so be sure to factor that in when choosing an indoor rabbit breed. It would mean at least 24 inches by 36 inches for the smallest bunnies. While some people opt for rabbit cages or bunny condos if they have more than one rabbit, these options are less than ideal – a puppy pen would be a much comfier fit. Alternatively, you can give your pet freedom to share your living space, with their corners for food and water bowls as well as litter, but you will have to bunny-proof your home in that case.

Rabbit-proofing your home for their safety

Rabbits are avid chewers and are known for gnawing on everything in their sight, which can happen to be dangerous and can cost you your valuables, as well. Rabbits can chew on electric cables (they love doing that) which can be very harmful, but they also chew furniture legs, baseboards, and so on. To prevent them from doing damage to your home and potentially injuring themselves in the process, you will have to rabbit-proof your home. Remove any potentially toxic plants from the area they spend time in, use protective tubing or plastic sleeves to keep them away from cords and cables, and block off areas you don’t want them to be in with a baby gate.

Rabbits need outdoor time

Despite your rabbit being an indoor rabbit, they’ll still have to have some quality time outside of your home. However, the same things are still true – they are vulnerable both to the elements and to the predators. When you’re letting your rabbit out, they will need to be in a safe enclosure where no predators can reach them and there’s no chance of them wandering off and getting into trouble. Also, be sure that the weather is appropriate – put the enclosure in the shade when it’s warm, and don’t let them out in extreme weather. And remember that their outside time should always be supervised!

Their diet is very important

All creatures depend on a healthy diet to support their overall health, but rabbits are even more specific as what they eat is essential for their normal functioning. A rabbit’s teeth grow throughout their life, so their food needs to be coarse enough that it gently files down their teeth when they are chewing it. Similarly, they are very prone to GI stasis, which is a fatal condition, and need a lot of fiber in their diet to help prevent this from happening. This is why their diet consists mainly of hay – preferably timothy hay, but any other grass hay will do. In addition to hay, they should also eat a smaller quantity of rabbit pellets as well as leafy greens, to supplement their other dietary needs.

Litter train your rabbit

While it might be more difficult to potty train your rabbit, it’s not impossible. And if they are kept indoors, it will be necessary! Rabbits like to do their business in one place, so it won’t be too difficult to point them in the right direction with plenty of patience and tasty treats as a reward for the job well done. Their litter box should have low sides so they can get in and out of it comfortably, and shouldn’t contain clay litter or silica litter as it can be harmful to them. Use paper pellets topped with hay, as bunnies love eating while peeing or pooping (weird, but it works wonders). You can also place some of their droppings into the litter to encourage them to use it, or place it in the spot they’ve used to go potty when the litter wasn’t set up.

You should spay or neuter your rabbit

Rabbits are known as prolific breeders – but when you keep them as pets, you don’t need them to produce litter after litter. To boot, having intact rabbits that are not breeding can come with a host of other issues, such as behavioral problems and a higher risk of cancer. You can get your rabbit fixed around 6 months of age and it will be highly beneficial for their overall health, both mental and physical. Statistics show that female rabbits that are not spayed before three years of age have an 80% chance of uterine cancer, so spaying prevents that unfortunate scenario – and in males, prevents testicular cancer. What’s more, unaltered rabbits have a tendency to be moody, aggressive, and mark their territory with urine, and spaying or neutering them on time will prevent all of these negative behaviors.

Angela Vuckovic

A proud mama to seven dogs and ten cats, Angela spends her days writing for her fellow pet parents and pampering her furballs, all of whom are rescues. When she's not gushing over her adorable cats or playing with her dogs, she can be found curled up with a good fantasy book.

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Top 10 Best Indoor Dogs

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Top 10 Best Indoor Dogs

Need a couch-surfing pal? Perhaps one who is covered with fur for optimal snuggling? Hey, we get it. The outdoors aren’t for everyone and that’s true of dogs as well! So check out our picks for the best indoor dogs! With the prices of houses skyrocketing, it’s little wonder that more of us can only afford small living spaces in high rises. Sadly, some people think that they can’t own a dog if they live in a small urban space. Sure, if you live in an apartment or even just an urban setting, you may not have the luxury of a fenced yard or even much outdoor space. But the fact that your living space doesn’t include a spacious yard or an outdoor enclosure shouldn’t mean that you can’t have a pup. Provided that all of their needs are met, there are pooches who would be perfectly happy being a primarily indoor only pet. Looks like you need our list of best indoor dogs. In cases like this, it is important to pick a dog who doesn’t mind spending the bulk of his time indoors. There are various factors that you need to consider to make sure you’re making the right decision, such as the dog’s energy levels, exercise needs, and space requirements. To save you the time you would have spent to research numerous breeds online, we’ve put together our Top 10 list of Best Indoor Dogs – ideal for people who don’t like to adventure outside that much or who don’t want to keep going up and down 20 flights of stairs! There are dogs for every owner and every home. The key is simply doing the research and finding the right pupper! Indoor dogs are certainly out there. You just need to find yours. (Photo credit: buchsammy/Bigstock.com) A Few Things to Think About When Choosing an Indoor Dog There are a few things that you should think about as you work on choosing the indoor dog breed that will fit in perfectly with the rest of your household. All dogs are different after all. Even indoor dogs come in a variety of bodies and personalities. So, before you dive into our slideshow to learn about a few of the breeds that have been deemed the best choices for those who spend a lot of time indoors, it’s wise to consider the following: Size: The most obvious factor to consider when considering an indoor dog, some dogs are simply going to have a more challenging time fitting into a smaller living space. This isn’t to say that a large dog can’t be low-energy and low-key. Quite the opposite! However, we sometimes have to work within limited space which can be difficult if your dog truly takes up half of your living room. Most dog parents that are looking for an indoor dog are also looking for a dog that’s small enough to curl up next to you on the couch for some relaxing downtime.Barking Habits: Whether you’re living in an apartment in a multi-family house, you’re in a townhouse, or you’re residing in a condo, you’ll have neighbors on the other side of the wall. So it goes without saying that a dog that barks a lot won’t make your neighbors happy. Choose a dog that is known for being rather quiet. A breed that doesn’t bark loudly or often is ideal in these situations.Attitude Towards Strangers: Another thing to consider is how well a particular dog breed gets along with strangers, especially if you are living in an apartment complex where your pooch will be exposed to new people all the time. You don’t want your dog to get stressed out by people he doesn’t know and you certainly don’t want to frighten other people when your dog is around. Dogs are supposed to bring joy to your neighbours! So, your move is to choose a breed that tends to do well around people of all ages and one who isn’t afraid of making new friends everywhere he goes.Shedding: When you’re living in a small space, it can be tough to keep things clean. The last thing you want is a thin layer of dog hair covering everything that you own. So, as you research the many fabulous indoor dog breeds out there, consider how much grooming will be required to keep their coats healthy and how much they’ll shed. A dog that doesn’t shed much can make it easier to keep your indoor space spotless. So, this is important.Exercise Needs: If you choose a dog that will need a lot of exercise and you lead a busy lifestyle or you just don’t like going outside much, everyone in the relationship will be unhappy. Thankfully, there are some dog breeds that don’t mind getting small amounts of physical activity every day. Choosing a dog who enjoys playing inside with his toys, and who can be mentally stimulated with a range of puzzle toys, might be your best option. That’s definitely better than getting a dog that needs a lot of exercise and prefers to run around outside in a big open space. Those dogs don’t do well in apartmentsAttachment to Owners: Dogs love being around their humans, so it’s always important to spend plenty of time giving your pet attention and affection. But some breeds are better able to cope with being alone inside the house for hours at a time. So if you lead a busy lifestyle and you don’t want your dog to get too bored or lonely while you aren’t home, opt for a breed that is more independent. Or just get two dogs so they can keep each other company whenever you aren’t around! That’s an option as well.

10 Best Rabbits for Pets

The American Rabbit Breeders Association recognizes 50 unique rabbit breeds, but there are over 300 breeds currently in the world – so how do you decide which bunny should become a part of your family? Keeping rabbits as pets can be so rewarding, as they are smart, affectionate, and make good companions without requiring much in return. However, not all rabbits are bred for the role of house pets – there are simply some breeds more suited than others, thanks to their great personalities and ease of care. Read on to see which 10 breeds make our list of best pet rabbits out there and find your new friend!

10 Best Rabbits for Showing

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10 Best Rabbits for Kids

Kids grow up so fast – before you know it, they are asking for a pet, and you might be considering that they are grown enough to accept the responsibilities that come with having a pet, in addition to cuddles and playing. A dog or a cat might seem like too much of a responsibility, or you might not be able to adopt one where you live, so you might be considering a rabbit as a first pet for your child instead. Luckily, rabbits make wonderful pets for kids, and some breeds are particularly suited for the role of a child’s companion. Gentle, affectionate, playful, and friendly, these rabbit breeds make the perfect pets for kids!

Missing 80-Year-Old Woman Found Thanks to Her Loyal Dog

The dedication and loyalty shown by “man’s best friend” has been long documented, from tales of heroic police K9s protecting their handlers to dedicated service dogs. But a recent story out of Utah shows just how far a loving dog will go to keep their person safe.The Emery County Sheriff’s Office in east-central Utah received a report of a missing 80-year-old woman. The elderly woman from Colorado had been visiting family when she took the family dog for a walk and never returned. Even more concerning, the missing woman had dementia. Recognizing this was a high-risk situation, a search was quickly organized, including multiple rescue crews, Ralph Mitchell, a local neighbor and friend of the family, James Thomas, a K9 Officer with the Utah Department of Wildlife Resources, and his canine partner, K9 Kip. It was a multi-agency effort to locate the woman quickly. Temperatures in the area rose to nearly 100 degrees during the day and dropped to 55 degrees at night. The situation was dire. The hot daytime temperatures slowed the search, forcing the teams to work when it was safe at night. After searching continuously for two days and two nights, Thomas and K9 Kip heard a dog barking briefly around 3:30 AM. Listening carefully, they tried to follow the sound but were unable to find the dog before it stopped. Thomas wasn’t the only one who heard the barking—Mitchell heard it, too! “When I was out checking the outbuildings, I heard a dog bark, and it was brief,” Mitchell explained. “I was in a very good position to get a direction on where this dog bark was coming from.” While Mitchell wasn’t able to pinpoint the bark's exact location, he was able to determine an approximate zone. On day three, the search crews accessed security cameras in the area, scanning the footage for any sign of the woman. Much to their surprise, they spotted her walking with her dog, heading east. “It was the first evidence that we had of her presence, and it gave us a timeline of when she was out walking and how long she’d been missing,” Mitchell stated. Focusing their efforts on the area they had seen her walking toward, the searchers split up and covered as much ground as they could. Not long into the search, they heard the sound again—barking. This time, they were able to follow the barks over steep, rugged terrain that had already been ruled out as too challenging for a woman of her age. Against all odds, there she was. On day three, they found her lying, fast asleep, with her face down. Her dog, 5-year-old chocolate lab Elsie, was lying beside her, sounding the alarm with her barks to call for help. While the two were dirty and dehydrated, they were in surprisingly good shape. Elsie had shown her loyalty to the family, keeping the woman safe and calling for help. In fact, searchers credited the dog with saving the woman’s life. It was a happy ending and a beautiful example of the true power of the loving bond that exists between a dog and their person. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Guide Dog Trigger Retires After Fathering Over 300 Puppies

A nine-year-old golden retriever, nicknamed The Dogfather, is going to a well-earned retirement after fathering a grand total of 323 puppies. Trigger has spent his years being the star stud dog of Guide Dogs. This charity organization specializes in breeding and training guide dogs for people with visual impairment in the United Kingdom. Since the beginning of his stud career in December 2016, Trigger has fathered 39 litters, including a record-breaking litter with 16 puppies in 2021. According to Guide Dogs, 294 of Trigger’s puppies have been bred by the charity itself, and an additional 29 puppies by other assistance dog charities and guide dog schools, bringing his grand total to 323 puppies.The Dogfather’s final litter consisted of six puppies, including five daughters named Rita, Jenny, Hermione, Indy, and Sandy, and a son, named Billy. The last of Trigger's offspring are eight weeks old and about to start their guide dog training and will be living with volunteer puppy raisers for the next year. “Trigger’s legacy can be seen in the independence and confidence his progeny has brought to the lives of blind and partially sighted people all over Britain,” shared Guide Dogs in a news release. The Dogfather’s puppies have been affectionately nicknamed Triglets by guide dog owners and volunteers. These pups have been guiding visually impaired and partially sighted individuals across the United Kingdom, including London, Cardiff, Glasgow, and even the Isle of Wright. Two of Trigger’s litters have been bred abroad at guide dog organizations in France and the Netherlands, creating guide dog partnerships in both countries. “Trigger’s wonderful, gentle nature and excellent health have made him the perfect asset to our breeding program. We can’t overstate the impact that Trigger has in helping us to provide so many guide dogs for people with sight loss,” said Janine Dixon, Head of Breeding Operations at Guide Dogs. Dixon added the charity hopes that Billy, Trigger’s son, will continue his father’s legacy by joining the breeding program in a few years.“In the meantime, nine of his daughters, as well, as his half-French son Pierre, are helping us to bring forward a new generation of dogs with Trigger’s fantastic genes,” shared Guide Dogs.When it comes to Trigger’s future, he will spend his well-earned retirement in Branbury with his Breeding Dog Volunteer Sarah Bryne, who has been looking after him for the past seven years and will now officially adopt him. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Dog in Florida Was Born With Lime Green Fur – Here's What Caused It

 On St. Patrick’s Day, everything is in green – people wear green outfits, put up green decorations, even drink green beer, and it seems that one pooch from Florida wanted to join in on the fun. Born exactly on St Patty’s Day, one Golden Retriever from a seemingly usual litter of pups sported green fur instead of the usual cream color! He was aptly named Shamrock for his emerald hair and became an internet star overnight for the same reason.Carole DeBruler, the owner of the Golden Treasures Kennel in Pensacola, Florida, was the first to snap photos of the incredible puppy, just moments after it was born. “It was so shocking when we saw her”, she said, adding that the little doggo was clearly “born lucky”. DeBruler filmed a detailed video of the puppy, posting it on the popular platform TikTok, where it quickly garnered over 8 million views. Of course, DeBruler was quick to explain the strange phenomenon at play here. The puppy was most likely stained with biliverdin, which was caused by bile in the womb of the dog's mom. It goes without saying that doggos don’t come with green fur, but the reason for this phenomenon is a natural, albeit rare occurrence. The condition is absolutely harmless and went away on its own as little Shamrock grew older.  DeBruler emphasized that Shamrock is completely healthy and happy, and just a tiny bit smaller than the rest of the puppies in the litter. In a follow-up video, a few weeks later, it was clear that Shamrock’s unique lime green color faded, but that his "feisty personality is just getting stronger."

Pretty Plants that Will Stop Cats from Pooping in Your Garden

Whether you own a cat or neighboring felines like to frequent your backyard, chances are you have come across half-buried cat poop in your flower beds. Cat lover or not, you probably weren’t thrilled to discover these unsightly deposits in your garden.Although cat poop won’t harm your garden, it also won’t add much to the overall appeal of it either, especially if the cats decide to dig their own toilets in the middle of your flower patch. In addition to preserving the aesthetics of your garden, there are several other reasons you may want to stop cats from pooping in your backyard. Keeping cats away will ensure the garden stays clean and safe for young children to play in. Plus, it will help protect wild birds that visit your garden, especially if you have a bird feeder or two.Besides being unsightly, cat poop in the garden can carry a parasite, called Toxoplasma gondii, which is particularly dangerous to pregnant women and unborn babies. For this reason, it’s super important that you wear gloves when you clean cat poop from your garden. As an added precaution against nasty infections, always use gloves when gardening.Are you sick and tired of cats using your garden as their personal toilet? There are several things you can do to preserve your outdoor oasis that don’t include the use of cruel booby-traps or startling devices.All you have to do is buy the right plant - one that cats hate but will look great in your garden. Although technically a weed, the curry plant is one of the best plants to deter cats from pooping in your garden. Scientifically known as Helichrysum italicum, the curry plant is a small, bushy evergreen shrub with linear-shaped silver-gray leaves. The leaves have a strong odor, reminiscent of curry, that acts as a potent cat deterrent. When a cat brushes against a curry plant, its leaves release a strong odor that attacks a cat’s sense of smell. Plus, the curry plant also has a coarse texture that cats hate. Many gardeners agree that curry plants act as excellent cat deterrents saying that cats stopped pooping in their gardens after they planted curry plants. Since the curry plant is essentially a weed, plant it sparingly so it won’t spread and take up too much space. If, for whatever reason, you don’t want to plant curry plants in your garden, plant lavender instead. A popular ornamental plant, lavender has pretty purple flowers and a delicate and sweet smell with herbal undertones. It’s that delicate smell that will help keep cats away from your garden!Cats have more than 200 million odor sensors in their noses and anything that emits a strong smell, like lavender, will be off-putting. Luckily, lavender is easy to grow and you can plant it in any part of your garden or containers. This gives you the freedom to plant lavender exactly where the cats like to poop to deter them. Many cats also dislike the smell of rosemary, rue, pennyroyal, citronella, oregano, geraniums, lemon thyme, and coffee. Any of these plants can act as a natural barrier and discourage cats from entering your garden and using it as a toilet. Although there are other ways to deter cats from pooping in your backyard, planting plants is an entirely natural and non-toxic option that isn’t harmful to the cats or you. It’s also cost-effective and aesthetically pleasing. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Hypothermia in Cats: What You Should Know

Hypothermia puts your cat’s health at risk, and if not treated in time, can be fatal. So, it’s wise to know even just the basics about hypothermia so you can recognize the symptoms and get your cat the help they need right away. Here’s a short guide to get you started.

Cat Laryngitis: Can Cats Lose Their Voice?

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Audio, a 4-Eared Kitten, Is Turning Heads in Tennessee

Tales of rescue cats often capture our hearts online, overcoming rough beginnings and finding loving forever homes. However, a recent story out of Tennessee has captured the attention of people around the world online. Earlier this summer, True Rescue, an animal rescue based out of Mount Juliet, Tennessee, shared the newest kitties to come into their care. Among them was an 8–9-week-old kitten with a surprising genetic defect – he has 4 ears. Named Audio due to his ability to hear the world in surround sound (100% an intentional pun), this sweet boy weighed just over 2 pounds, but don’t let his small size surprise you. This little guy is full of personality, and he’s showing the world that, in some situations, more really is more!Four kittens came into the care of True Rescue after being dumped in a mechanic’s shop in a duct-taped box with no air holes. The kittens all required antibiotics and veterinary care for their condition due to an upper respiratory infection. They continue to take antibiotics as of the last update that the rescue provided to their followers but were doing well. After sharing the story of Audio on their Facebook, it was clear the people wanted to know more. The rescue shared this viral video, introducing the sweet young boy:

Microchip Helps Reunite Owners With a Lost Cat 5 Years Later

No bigger than a grain of rice, a microchip can save a life and help reunite a lost pet with their family. The Hall family understands the importance of microchipping after reuniting with a lost cat. Jeff and Cindy Hall were ecstatic after receiving news that their cat, Sam, was discovered in Arkansas five years after he first went missing. Cindy told the local NBC affiliate KARK that they received a phone call that their Russian blue cat was found at a gas station in Arkansas. The two women who have found Sam, have brought him to Jacksonville Animal Hospital. Using the information from Sam’s microchip, the women contacted PAWSitively Cats, an animal rescue organization, where the Halls adopted Sam when he was just 12 weeks old.  The women who found the feline were a part of the Alone 2 Home pet transport crew and were in the middle of transporting two dogs when they came across Sam. “We had him for seven years and then one day he got out. It is a miracle that he walked up to these two women who were in rescue,” said Cindy, adding that PAWSitively Cats called her and Jeff directly. She described the happy occasion as a “beautiful story” saying that reuniting with Sam, whom they had for seven years before he disappeared, was “surreal.”“This story just can’t underestimate the power of a microchip,” she said. “We are so grateful for everyone that was involved.”Sam the cat is now 12 years old and weighs 21 pounds. The rescue organization documented his entire journey on their Facebook page. PAWSitively Cats wrote that someone had picked up Sam and failed to look for his home when he first disappeared from the Hall residence.Before contacting Sam's family, the organization received a message that a microchipped cat had been found in Brinkley, Arkansas. In the meantime, Sam received the royal treatment at the Jacksonville Animal Hospital in Little Rock. The pet transport crew, Alone 2 Home once again assisted with Sam’s travels and brought him to El Paso, where the shelter’s director met up with them to bring Sam back to PAWSitively Cats shelter.  The feline’s family departed from Nevada and traveled to Tuscon, to finally get their beloved feline back.“Once again, we will do everything possible to be sure our cats are safe and can get back home if that is what is best for them,” the rescue posted on Facebook. “They are safe for life with us, one way or another, as long as PAWSitively Cats can continue. You make that possible by donating and sharing our cats’ stories. It really does take a whole community to save lives,” the post added.The Alone 2 Home transport crew also posted photos of Sam and provided additional updates to the shelter, before PAWSitively Cats updated their followers on Sam’s safe return home. “Sam was joyfully reunited with his family this morning,” the shelter later wrote in a post. “They are on their way home to Nevada now, where Sam will join the rest of the family: cats, dogs, and human sisters.” While talking to KARK, Cindy noted that having their cat home makes their family feel complete once again. No one knows how Sam ended up in Arkansas or for how long he had been there. It would be interesting to hear everything Sam went through during the five years he was away from his family. If only cats could talk!Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Handsome Rescue Cat Hamlet Runs His Own Hotel

Move over, Fido! Who needs a guard dog when you have a feline overseeing the place? At least, that’s how the owners and employees of New York City’s Algonquin Hotel seem to believe…Since the 1930s, the hotel lobby has been carefully supervised by a one-of-a-kind employee. But don’t let his small size fool you – the Algonquin Cat, as they are lovingly called, is an important fixture of the hotel with a long history that most are unaware of.The tradition began when the hotel’s owner, Frank Case, welcomed a stray orange tabby cat named Billy into the hotel. It wasn’t long before Billy could be seen walking the hotel’s elegant halls with his head (and tail) held high. Before long, he was renamed Hamlet (a more literary name suitable for a cat with such big responsibilities), and a legend was born.Since that day, the hotel has never been without a feline greeter. All boy cats that serve in this role are orange tabbies named Hamlet while all girl cats are ragdolls named Matilda. The best part? In honor of the first Hamlet’s origin story, all the hotel’s resident cats are rescues.Today, Hamlet the 8th continues to rule the hotel lobby, an incredible step up from the feral cat colony he once called home.When he’s not working, Hamlet is pampered with daily brushing, fashion show benefits, birthday parties, and other perks. Plus, of course, the steady stream of attention that he receives from the many cat lovers who come to see the hardworking kitty.Just a couple of years ago, the hotel underwent a refresh. The oldest continuously operating hotel in the city was starting to look a little worn. In addition to focusing on maintaining the historic architecture and feel of the hotel, the redesign also focused on finding new ways to accommodate Hamlet VIII and the many cats that will follow in his paw prints.A small cat house was installed by the reception desk. “The idea is, hopefully, he likes it in there so the guests can see him when they first walk in, but he also feels safe,” explained Sara Duffy, a principal at the architecture and interior design firm Stonehill Taylor who carried out the hotel’s refresh.The cat-friendly accommodations didn’t end there. A bookshelf in the hotel’s lounge features cat-friendly nooks and ladders, allowing him to easily move around the room while visiting with various guests. A daybed by the window creates the perfect place for Hamlet VIII to relax and soak up the sun’s rays.“He likes to be up high and look down, to observe but not be pet all the time. But sometimes he likes to come down and participate,” said Duffy when asked about the lounge’s design features.If you’re interested in visiting Hamlet VIII while in New York, the Algonquin Hotel is located between Fifth and Sixth Avenues at 59 West 44th Street. Or you can read more about these legendary cats in the book Matilda, the Algonquin Cat.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Is It Important to Have a Crash-Tested Harness or Carrier?

We all love traveling with our best friends, creating lasting memories together. However, wherever the road takes us, ensuring their safety is a top priority. While some pet parents are comfortable riding around with their pet seated proudly in the passenger seat, this could be a life-threatening decision in an unexpected stop or accident. Is it worth taking the risk? We don’t believe so! In this post, we will explore the different options for safely restraining your pet during your next road trip. More importantly, we’ll examine what makes a crash-tested harness or carrier different from the non-tested options and how they can offer you, as a pet parent, peace of mind. Do Pets Have to Be in a Carrier in the Car? What Are My Options?When discussing how to keep our pets safe in the vehicle, the most common recommendation is to keep them secured in a crate or carrier. In fact, in some states, laws require that pets be restrained to avoid becoming a distraction when driving. A well-ventilated crate will keep your pet contained and prevent them from being thrown about in an accident. But it’s not your only option. If you have a larger dog, you may not have enough space for an appropriately sized crate in your vehicle. Others may have a pet that is uncomfortable or anxious in a crate. In these cases, a pet seatbelt can keep your pet safe. But it’s important to note that not all carriers and harnesses are created equally. There are a few additional considerations, including whether your gear is crash-tested and how they are secured within your vehicle. What is a Crash-Tested Harness or Carrier? You may be wondering what exactly a crash-tested harness or carrier is and what sets it apart from other travel gear. The products we refer to as crash-tested are those that passed the rigorous independent testing carried out by the Center for Pet Safety (CPS). Not only do these products pass the initial testing, but they also continue to be evaluated. Certification can be revoked if a product falls below the standards and requirements set out by CPS. On the CPS website, you can see details about the testing each product undergoes, including video evidence of the test and the date that it was tested. If you are road-tripping with your pet and searching for a CPS-certified harness or carrier, here are a few options that we highly recommend: Sleepypod Clickit Sport Plus Car Seat Belt Harness Sleepypod Air Airline Approved Pet Carrier Diggs Travel Pet Carrier for Small Dogs and Cats Lucky Dog Kennel A complete list of CPS-certified crash-tested products is on the CPS website.

Dogs Can Smell When You’re Stressed

Researchers have discovered that dogs can smell human stress and it can affect the way they make decisions. The study was conducted in the United Kingdom, and helps shed more light on how dogs can be impacted by the emotions experienced by people.

What is the Difference Between a Hamster and a Dwarf Hamster?

Hamsters are popular pets due to their small size and playful personalities. These pocket pets are an excellent choice for those who may be limited in space but still want to bring a companion into their home or apartment. With various breeds available, choosing between a Syrian or dwarf hamster can be overwhelming. Both offer unique characteristics, personalities, and care requirements. Let’s explore the key differences between these two adorable pocket pets to help you decide which is the perfect fit for your lifestyle and living space. Plus, we’ll share tips and tricks for giving your new hamster the best quality of life! Syrian Hamster vs. Dwarf Hamster: Key Differences Deciding between adopting a Syrian hamster or a dwarf hamster largely depends on personal preference. However, there are distinct characteristics that can help drive that decision. Let’s explore the physical differences between the two popular hamster breeds, including size, appearance, and temperament: Size and AppearanceThe most obvious difference between Syrian and dwarf hamsters is their appearance. Syrian hamsters (often simply called hamsters) are larger, growing up to 8 inches long. They have large, round eyes and are frequently described as looking like little teddy bears. This is also due to their most common coloring, a golden brown with white bellies. However, they can be found with white, black, or gray fur if you want a different color. Dwarf hamsters are smaller in size and often described as looking more like a mouse. Fully grown, they are usually 2 to 4 inches long. They are also available in a range of colors, but the most common are shades of grey-brown.Personality While the appearance differences may be more evident at first glance, the personality differences are often the reason why pet lovers prefer one over the other. Syrian hamsters are affectionate and loving pets, thriving off attention from their families. They are active, spending much of their time exploring their enclosure and playing with the available toys and features, but will also gladly spend time being held or handled (within reason). On the other hand, dwarf hamsters are considerably less affectionate. There are always exceptions to every rule, but most dwarf hamsters would be happiest spending their time playing independently. They have more energy than Syrian hamsters and higher exercise needs.

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