Best Supplements for Dog Allergies

Angela Vuckovic
by Angela Vuckovic
Published:  November 14th, 2022
Stickler/Shutterstock

As many as 20% of dogs will develop allergies during their lifetime. Itchy skin is the most common symptom of dog allergies, but some dogs can also experience hives, hot spots, swelling of the face, lips, eyelids, or ears, sneezing, and red, inflamed skin. If your pooch is among those that are affected by these symptoms, supplements for dog allergies can really make their life easier.


Available in different forms, including soft chews, powder, and chewable tablets, supplements for dog allergies are made with natural ingredients that won’t make your pooch drowsy or lethargic, like many popular allergy medicines for dogs tend to do. These supplements are completely safe and can be a great preventative measure for seasonal allergies or used to relieve allergy symptoms in conjunction with prescription meds.

With so many different options available, you may need help finding the best formula for your pooch – to help you give your dog some relief, we’ve found the best supplements for dog allergies on the market.

Editor’s Choice: Zesty Paws Allergy Immune Supplement for Dogs

Check Price $19.97

Formulated for dogs of all breeds and sizes, Zesty Paws supplements help maintain normal histamine levels in dogs and boost the immune system and gut health. It’s made with human-grade Epicor, a natural yeast that contains vitamins, minerals, fibers, proteins, and antioxidants that are clinically proven to improve the body’s immune response. Each lamb-flavored chew contains powerful prebiotics and probiotics, colostrum, omega-3 fatty acids, EPA, and DHA that help with digestion, immune function, and allergies. The blend of natural ingredients, including flaxseed, apple cider vinegar, salmon oil, and astragalus root, provides skin and immune support to dogs with seasonal and environmental allergy issues that cause itchy skin and hot spots.

Pros

  • Tasty lamb flavor dogs tend to enjoy
  • Supports a strong immune system
  • Made in the USA
  • Seasonal allergy support

Cons

  • Can cause diarrhea in some dogs

Runner Up: Vet’s Best Seasonal Allergy Relief Dog Supplement

Check Price $19.71

If seasonal allergies are causing your dog to lick and scratch obsessively, a quality supplement for dog allergies can support normal histamine levels and relieve seasonal discomfort. This vet-formulated tablet supplement features a blend of plant-based ingredients like nettle extract, perilla leaf extract, and kelp that maintain histamine levels. Vet’s Best chewable tablets are formulated for dogs one year or older and can be fed directly or mixed with food. In addition to allergy relief, these supplements support proper nutrient absorption, healthy digestion, and immune response.

Pros

  • Easy to administer directly or at mealtimes
  • Promotes healthy digestion
  • Soothes dry and itchy skin
  • Carries the NASC seal of approval

Cons

  • Some dogs don’t like how this supplement tastes and smells

Customer’s Choice: Pet Parents Immune & Allergy Supplement for Dogs

Check Price $26.99

Whether your pooch is dealing with food, seasonal, or environmental allergies, has itchy skin or just needs a hot spot treatment, an immune and allergy supplement can provide some much-needed relief. Pet Parents soft chews are full of powerful nutrients, including colostrum, Bio-Mos, salmon oil, apple cider vinegar, and quercetin, that boost the immune system and improve your furball’s allergy symptoms. Besides these active ingredients, these chewable supplements contain quality inactive ingredients like salmon, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, and carrots which are also loaded with all the good stuff your pet needs to thrive. To provide allergy relief and improve the immune system, give your pooch these supplements daily on their own or at mealtimes.

Pros

  • Formulated for dogs of all ages
  • Allergy relief and immunity support
  • No fillers, only premium ingredients
  • Improved digestive health

Cons

  • Strong smell

Best Soft Chews for Dog Allergies: Mighty Petz MAX Dog Allergy Relief Chews

Check Price $26.96

Formulated to provide allergy relief and support a weakened immune system, these soft chews are packed with potent natural active ingredients. The ingredient list includes more colostrum, probiotics, fish oil, and quercetin per chew than their competitors, paired with other health-nourishing ingredients such as apple cider vinegar, ginger root, and kelp powder. Together, these natural ingredients encourage a normal histamine response, help maintain healthy skin and coat, enhance immune system response and support digestion and gut health. These soft chews can be given as a treat, as they have natural bacon flavor – and a texture that most pooches adore.

Pros

  • Packed with potent natural ingredients
  • Contains colostrum, probiotics, fish oil, and quercetin
  • 10 active ingredients
  • Supports normal histamine response
  • Maintains immune health, skin and coat health, and digestive healthy
  • Made in the USA in a GMP-certified facility

Cons

  • Not all dogs like the taste

Best Natural Supplement for Dog Allergies: Winpro Advanced Allergy Formula

Check Price $34.99

If you want only the best for your pooch, these natural, grain-free chews are a great choice. Fast-acting and tasty, these supplements help soothe irritated, itchy skin and reduce inflammation caused by stress and environmental, seasonal, or food allergies. This allergy supplement features K-Thrive Formula D, bromelain, nettle extract, and quercetin which fight allergy symptoms at the source, calming irritation and inflammation. Clinically tested and made in the USA, this supplement is certified by the National Animal Supplement Council and is safe for daily use.

Pros

  • All-natural
  • Supports skin and coat health
  • Made in the USA
  • Fast relief from itching, biting, and scratching

Cons

  • Not for dogs with sensitive stomachs

Best Chewable Supplement for Dog Allergies: Bark & Spark Itch and Allergy Relief Supplement

Check Price $24.89

This allergy supplement for dogs offers allergy and itch relief, moisturizes the skin and coat, and also supports mobility, heart health, and a strong immune system – kind of an all-in-one deal. These soft chews contain 500mg of omega fatty acids per serving, which help soothe itchy and irritated skin, hot spots and reduce shedding. In addition to promoting better skin and coat health, omega fatty acids help keep your pooch active by supporting hip, joint, heart, brain, and immune health. These supplements are available in chicken and salmon flavors that are a hit even with picky eaters. For best results, serve these supplements at mealtimes based on your pup’s weight.

Pros

  • All-in-one skin and coat supplement
  • Safe for puppies, adults, and senior dogs
  • Made with human-grade ingredients
  • Prevents and soothes allergy symptoms

Cons

  • Not for picky eaters

Best Supplement for Dog Allergies for Picky Eaters: PetHonesty Allergy & Skin Health Supplement

Check Price $27.89

Does your dog turn their nose whenever you try to give them a supplement? PetHonest Allergy supplements are formulated as soft chews and come in irresistible duck and salmon flavors even the pickiest pooches find hard to resist. Formulated to soothe allergy-related skin problems and improve skin health, these supplements address the root cause of most skin issues in dogs and help improve gut and overall health, immunity, and nutrient absorption. Powerful active ingredients like kelp, DHA, and EPA from omega-3 fatty acids, turmeric, quercetin, zinc, and vitamins C, E, and H, promote normal inflammatory response and settle skin-related issues associated with allergies.

Pros

  • Supports normal digestion and a strong immune system
  • Made without GMOs, soy, wheat, and corn
  • Soft chews with a tasty flavor
  • Made in the USA in a GMP-certified facility

Cons

  • Strong smell

Best Supplement for Seasonal Allergies in Dogs: Finn Allergy and Itch Supplement for Dogs

Check Price $30.00

Dogs with seasonal allergies have itchy and irritated skin and experience skin and coat problems caused by allergens from the air, like pollen, mold, or dust. Made with Alaskan wild salmon, colostrum, bee propolis, prebiotics, probiotics, quercetin, and bromelain, these soft chews boost digestive health and immune response. Finn’s Allergy and Itch supplements help maintain normal histamine levels and soothe itchiness and inflammation caused by allergies. Certified by the National Animal Supplement Council, these supplements come in a recyclable, BPA-free tin and are safe for dogs of all ages.

Pros

  • Made in the USA with natural ingredients
  • Soothes itchy skin and hot spots
  • Rich in omega-3 fatty acids that decrease inflammation
  • Supports immune system response

Cons

  • Takes some time to start working

Best Supplement for Dog Allergies and Itch Relief: Native Pet Dog Allergy Relief

Check Price $21.99

Made without fillers and artificial flavors, this all-natural formula uses a blend of natural ingredients to regulate your pup’s histamine response. These supplements for dog allergies rely on spirulina to protect against reactions to allergens, colostrum to support immune health and reduce inflammation, dried fermentate to supply antibodies that fight allergies, and Bacillus coagulans to support gut health. Together these ingredients provide natural itch relief for dogs and boost the immune system. The ingredients are air-dried to preserve all nutrients and infused with real chicken for a delicious flavor.

Pros

  • No additives or artificial flavors
  • Made with nine high-quality ingredients
  • It provides an all-natural antihistamine
  • Offer relief for itchy skin and hot spots

Cons

  • Can cause diarrhea in some dogs

Best Powdered Supplement for Dog Allergies: NaturVet Skin & Coat Allergy Aid Plus Antioxidants

Check Price $22.99

Whether your pooch is a picky eater or you’re looking for a hassle-free way to administer allergy supplements, nothing can beat the convenience of a powder supplement. A daily serving of this allergy aid formula contains Omega-3, 6, and 9 fatty acids, quercetin, colostrum, bromelain, and other ingredients that help maintain proper skin moisture and offer allergy relief. This formula is also a source of natural antioxidants that support a strong immune response and assist in preventing allergies. For optimal results, mix this formula daily with your pup’s wet food.

Pros

  • Easy to administer and mix with food
  • Supports immune response and respiratory health
  • Made in the USA
  • Provides itch relief and hydrates the skin

Cons

  • Not for dogs with sensitive stomachs

Honorable Mention: Kinpur Pet Care Natural Dog Allergy Supplement

Check Price $19.85

Formulated to ease symptoms of seasonal, food, and environmental allergies, these supplements for dog allergies are suitable for pooches of all ages and sizes. This chewable supplement relies on natural ingredients like apple cider vinegar, salmon oil, and colostrum to help with skin and coat problems, provide itch relief, and improve the immune system. Kinpur Pet Care Allergy Supplement comes in the form of soft, duck-flavored easy-to-chew bites that can be offered as treats. Thanks to a powerful probiotic blend, these supplements also support the immune system and digestion.

Pros

  • Soothes itchy skin, irritated eyes, and runny nose
  • Easy to administer soft chews
  • Supports a strong immune system and digestive health
  • Boosts skin and coat health

Cons

  • Very potent smell

What Are the Most Common Allergies in Dogs?


Where humans are concerned, sneezing, watery eyes, wheezing, and coughing are the most common symptoms of allergies. But dog allergies primarily affect their skin, making your pooch extremely itchy and eager to scratch – even to the point of opening wounds on their skin. Dog allergies vary, but the most common ones can be classified into three groups:


  • Environmental: Pollen, mold, dust, grass, smoke, weeds, and fungi are the most common triggers. However, chemicals and perfumes are also known to trigger an allergic reaction in some dogs. Pooches with environmental allergies can experience symptoms seasonally or year-round.


  • Food: Dogs with food allergies can experience itching or gastrointestinal problems like vomiting or diarrhea. The most common food allergens are beef, dairy, wheat, eggs, chicken, lamb, soy, pork, rabbit, and fish. Dogs with food allergies are usually allergic to more than one thing. The most common symptoms of food allergies in dogs are itching, scabs, hot spots, and reoccurring ear infections.


  • Insect bites: Flea bites are the most common insects that bite dogs. Flea allergy dermatitis happens when a dog’s immune system reacts to proteins in flea saliva that end up deposited on the skin. Dogs that experience other types of allergies are more likely to develop flea allergy dermatitis.



What to Look for in Dog Supplements for Allergies


Many herbs and natural ingredients can relieve inflammation and itching caused by allergies, but not all are equally effective. Most quality supplements for dog allergies contain omega fatty acids, probiotics, quercetin, colostrum, and bromelain for their immune-boosting and histamine-reducing effects. Some formulas may also contain apple cider vinegar which relieves itchy skin and rashes; turmeric, which helps ease redness, swelling, and itching; biotin, a B-complex vitamin that promotes skin and coat health; and digestive enzymes that promote gut health and reduce swelling. Check the ingredients listed on the product label, and pick a supplement based on the severity of your pup’s allergies. When shopping for supplements for dog allergies, consider if it will be convenient to administer them to your dog. Supplements for dog allergies usually come in the form of soft chews, chewable tablets, or powder. If you have a picky eater, powder supplements might be easier to administer than chewable tablets. Your pooch will be none the wiser if you mix a flavorless powder supplement into their wet food, but you might have a hard time getting your dog to swallow a tablet.

As always, consult your veterinarian before including any supplement in your dog’s diet, even if it’s completely natural. This is especially true if your pooch is already on allergy medications. Your veterinarian knows your pooch and their medical history the best and can tell you if the ingredients in the supplement are safe for your pet to consume.

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Angela Vuckovic
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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Are you considering adding a scaly friend to your family? Bearded dragons have captured the hearts of reptile experts and casual pet lovers alike with their unique appearance, interesting personalities, and low-maintenance care requirements.However, owning a reptile is a significant commitment, regardless of what type of reptile you choose!Before bringing a new pet into your home, you must weigh the pros and cons. This guide will explore the key factors to consider when deciding if a bearded dragon is the right fit for your lifestyle and living situation.Bearded Dragon Behavior and Temperament One reason bearded dragons have gained so much popularity as pets is their calm and docile temperament. While many reptiles are resistant to being tamed, bearded dragons are generally highly responsive to their owners. They are attentive pets that enjoy spending time with their person. They tolerate being touched and handled well, rarely biting or scratching in response. In fact, many learn to ride around on their owners’ shoulders, perched happily. While they enjoy spending time with their person, they also need their alone time. Many owners see this as a positive as it allows them to go to work, run errands, or even participate in social events without worrying about their pet’s separation anxiety (a concern many dog owners know well). Of course, there are always exceptions – but generally speaking, these gentle and highly social pets are an excellent option for reptile lovers interested in forming a special bond with their new companion. Choosing Your Bearded Dragon If reading that description of the bearded dragon makes you excited that you’ve found your perfect reptile companion, it’s time to discuss how to find your new friend. This includes not only finding a pet whose personality is a good match for your own but also ensuring that your new lizard is healthy. There are two different approaches to finding a new reptile. First, you can connect with a reputable bearded dragon breeder. Purchasing your reptile from a breeder generally involves a contract that is designed to protect both you and the breeder, guaranteeing the health of your new pet on the day it is adopted. Alternatively, you can contact your local shelter or reptile-specific rescue organizations. Here are a few important considerations when searching for your new pet: Check all over for any sign of visible injuries, such as scratches, cuts, scars, or burns. While you could take on an injured reptile without any long-term issues, you may also find yourself dealing with secondary complications like infections. Run your fingers along the tail. A healthy tail will feel round and plump at the base, near the body. If it feels sunken into the body or overly bony, that’s a red flag. Look into the reptile’s eyes. You want to choose a bearded dragon who is alert and aware of your presence. It should hold its head upright, with its eyes following your movements. Sunken eyes are also a concern.Check their face for any signs of inflammation or pus. Ensure they don’t have runny eyes. Assess the quality of the bearded dragon’s skin. Loose or discolored skin is a sign of underlying illness.Don’t be afraid to ask questions of the breeder or rescue worker who is showing you the young bearded dragon. Ask about whether they have noticed any sign of illness or injury. You can also ask about the state of their “droppings.” Sure, it’s not the most exciting conversation – but it is a good indicator of a reptile’s well-being. Most importantly, don’t feel pressured into bringing a new pet home. If you are being pushed to make a snap decision, that is a warning sign that they may be trying to hide something.

Scientists Reveal Why Cats Scratch Furniture and How to Stop It

Many cat owners get used to seeing torn cushions, carpets, and furniture that bear their felines’ claw marks. Scratching is normal behavior for cats but is often considered a behavioral problem by cat owners who sometimes turn to painful procedures, like declawing, as a quick fix.This has prompted an international team of researchers to investigate which factors influence undesired scratching behavior in domestic cats. The team surveyed over 1,200 cat owners in France about the daily lives and characteristics, as well as undesired scratching behavior of their cats. Their findings were published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science. “Here we show that certain factors - such as the presence of children at home, personality traits of cats and their activity levels -significantly impact the extent of scratching behavior,” explained Dr. Yasemin Salgirli Demirbas, the first author of the study and a veterinary researcher at Ankara University. “Our findings can help caregivers manage and redirect scratching to appropriate materials, which could help foster a more harmonious living environment for both cats and their caregivers.”Researchers discovered a link between certain behavioral and environmental factors and increased scratching behavior in cats. “Specifically, the presence of children in the home as well as high levels of play and nocturnal activity significantly contribute to increased scratching,” explained Salgirli Demirbas. Nocturnal activity in cats consists of behaviors exhibited at night. Heightened vocalization and playfulness during the night are usually the result of poor daytime stimulation or lack of social interactions. But it may also be a cat’s way of seeking attention. “While cats are naturally nocturnal, they can adjust to a human diurnal schedule if provided with structured and engaging activities during the day,” said the survey’s lead author.However, researchers found that stress is the main reason behind increased scratching. For example, the presence of children in the home, especially while they’re small, might increase stress levels and be one of several factors that can cause cats to scratch. Although it may seem unlikely, playfulness is another factor that can be associated with stress. You see, when cats play for a long time without a break, their stress levels can become high because of uninterrupted stimulation. Unsurprisingly, researchers discovered that cats described as aggressive and troublesome also exhibited higher levels of unwanted scratching. Although some factors that contribute to unwanted scratching - such as the cat’s personality and the presence of young children at home - can’t be changed, others can. For example, placing scratching posts in areas a cat spends a lot of time in or near their favorite resting spot can lessen the cat’s urge to scratch the furniture. Using pheromone diffusers and sprays is also an effective way to help your cat feel calm and confident in their environment. Pheromone therapy is often used for cats that show signs of anxiety and can prevent stress behaviors like scratching, crying, and hiding. “Providing safe hiding places, elevated observation spots, and ample play opportunities can also help alleviate stress and engage the cat in more constructive activities,” explained researchers.Engaging a cat in multiple play sessions that mimic hunting behavior is a great strategy to reduce stress and excessive scratching. This type of play will keep the cat mentally stimulated and help deepen the bond between the owner and the cat.“Understanding the underlying emotional motivations of scratching behavior, such as frustration, which seem to be linked to personality traits and environmental factors, allows the caregivers to address these issues directly.” Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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.

RSPCA Blames Film and Social Media for Overcrowding in Shelters

UK rescues dealing with influx of super-trendy, uber-fashionable pedigree felines.

What Is Reverse Sneezing in Dogs?

Reverse sneezing, also known as inspiratory paroxysmal respiration, is a condition that often worries dog owners because of its dramatic presentation. Unlike regular, common sneezing, which involves expelling air out through the nose, reverse sneezing occurs when a dog rapidly pulls air into its nose. This phenomenon is characterized by sudden, repeated, and forceful inhalations through the nose, accompanied by a snorting sound that can be quite alarming to those unfamiliar with the condition. But is it a cause for worry? Here’s the scoop on this weird behavior.What Is Reverse Sneezing in Dogs?What reverse sneezing essentially is is a spasm of the throat and the soft palate. During an episode, the dog’s airway temporarily narrows, causing the dog to extend its neck and make loud snorting noises as it tries to clear the irritation. These episodes are usually brief, lasting from a few seconds to a couple of minutes, and they typically resolve on their own without intervention. There are several key factors that can trigger reverse sneezing in dogs. Here are some common causes:#1 Irritants:Environmental irritants, such as pollen, dust, perfumes, and smoke can all cause reverse sneezing. Dogs with allergies, or those exposed to new or strong scents are particularly susceptible. For dogs with allergies, supplements can be of great help in managing symptoms and even relieving them altogether.

Can You Use Dog Flea Products on Cats?

Final Thoughts – Safe Flea Prevention for CatsWhile flea prevention is an important step to keep your cat safe and healthy, you must ensure that the products you are purchasing are made for use on cats. Many dog flea prevention products include highly toxic chemicals to cats, making them potentially life-threatening.If you suspect you have recently used the wrong flea treatment on your cat, wash the area immediately with soap and water to remove as much of the product as possible. Call your vet for an immediate emergency appointment or make your way to the nearest emergency clinic. These products can be lethal, and time is of the essence.For those concerned about the risks of fleas and flea-transmitted diseases, highly effective products are available that are safe for your kitty. When shopping, read the packaging carefully to ensure it says it is made for use on cats. If you are still unsure, ask your veterinarian for recommendations.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Top 10 Flea and Tick Prevention Tips
Top 10 Flea and Tick Prevention Tips
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Can I Teach My Hamster to be Quiet at Night?

Have you ever scrolled social media to find viral videos of hamsters running enthusiastically on their exercise wheel? There is no denying that it’s an adorable sight! Unfortunately, it becomes far less cute for hamster parents when their nighttime playtime keeps us awake all night.If you’re wondering if there’s a way to train your hamster to adjust to a more human sleep cycle, you’re not alone.In this post, I will share some key information about hamsters and their sleep habits, including why your hamster is so active when the sun goes down. Plus, I’ll share tips and tricks to create a happy home for both you and your hamster – including gear that has helped me coexist peacefully with my hamsters over the years.With a few minor changes or updates, you can share your life with a hamster and enjoy a good night’s sleep. I promise! Why is My Hamster So Active at Night? Since bringing your hamster home, you may have noticed that they are most active at night, catching up on their sleep throughout the day. If you’ve been searching for answers (which you probably are, if you’re reading this), you may have seen many people explaining that you’re experiencing this schedule because hamsters are nocturnal – meaning they are active at night and sleep during the day. However, this isn’t entirely accurate. Hamsters are actually crepuscular. This means that (according to Cambridge Dictionary), they are “active or appearing at the time of day just before the sun goes down, or just after the sun rises, when the light is not bright.” With pet hamsters, this is often mistaken as nocturnal because we are asleep during that period between dusk and dawn. Therefore, we don’t experience them slowing down or resting during the middle of the night. Returning to the original question: “Why is my hamster so active at night?” The short answer is this behavior is the result of their biological wiring. In the wild, they are active when it is safer to emerge and seek out food. This allows them to hide when predators are more likely to see them in the daylight hours. Are All Hamsters Active at Night? As with any behavior, there are always going to be exceptions. If you were to interview 100 hamster parents, you are likely going to find one or two that “break the rules” and are active during the day. However, this is rare. It’s safe to assume that any hamster you adopt and bring home will be most active at dusk and dawn, not during the daylight hours. Can You Change a Hamster’s Sleep Schedule?It is possible to change a pet’s sleep cycle. However, there is no guaranteed approach that will work with every hamster. It’s also not recommended by experts as this process could cause significant stress and anxiety to your hamster by forcing them to go against their instincts. Rather than changing your new pet’s sleep schedule, it’s recommended that you instead focus on making changes to their habitat to accommodate their natural sleep pattern. Does this mean your hamster will always be active at night? Not necessarily. Over time, you may see your hamster adjusting their sleep schedule to better align with your schedule without trying to make a change yourself. But it should not be forced on them. Influencing Your Hamster’s Sleep Schedule While it’s not recommended that you train your hamster to completely change their sleep schedule, you can take steps to influence it and encourage them to adjust slightly to your routine. The best approach to influencing your hamster’s sleep schedule is to encourage them to stay awake and play when they are already awake, not waking them up if they have fallen asleep. Hamsters are startled easily due to their poor eyesight, which means waking them up could trigger severe anxiety. If your hamster is awake at a time that suits your schedule and routine, take the opportunity to spend quality time together while encouraging them to stay awake longer. This could mean playing with them or giving them lots of affection if they are tame and like to be handled. This should be done gradually, keeping them awake just a little longer each day. As you encourage these changes, watch carefully for any signs of stress and anxiety, such as: Loss of appetite Refusing to drink water Increased vocalizationHiding constantly, especially during hours when they are usually activeLethargy or loss of energyFailing to chew and wear down their teeth, overgrown teethChewing at the cage bars Hair loss, bald spots, overgroomingObsessive behaviors like digging, scratching, or lickingUncharacteristic aggressionIf you notice any of these signs, take a step back. This could indicate that you’re pushing your hamster to make changes too quickly or that they aren’t comfortable changing their sleep schedule at all. Reevaluate your efforts and make a decision that prioritizes their quality of life. If that means abandoning this attempt and focusing instead on changing their habitat to minimize noise, that may be the best solution for everyone.

These Are The Longest Living Cat Breeds, Study Shows

On average, cats have a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years, and most breeds fit well within these limits. However, it seems that some kitties are built a bit differently – a new study in feline life expectancies has revealed which cat breeds are more likely to live longer than you’d expect. The study analyzed thousands of pet cats across the UK and revealed that some cats, like the Burmese or the Birmans, will live more than twice as long as the shortest-lived cat breeds.“In terms of life expectancy, there has been very little research done on cats,”  said Dan O’Neill, Senior Lecturer in Companion Animal Epidemiology at the Royal Veterinary College in the UK. “They’re kind of invisible to science, especially compared to dogs.”O’Neill and his team analyzed data on 7936 cats that died between 2019 and 2021. This was some tremendous work that required plenty of patience. The data has been taken mostly from vets across the UK. And although it sounds grim, this careful data research has helped the team to learn a lot more about cat longevity. The results were interesting, to say the least. It was concluded that, on average, the studied cats had a life expectancy of just over 11.7 years. What is more, female kitties outlived their male counterparts – they had an expected lifespan of 12.5 years, compared to 11.2 years for males. However, the most interesting part of the study revealed that crossbreed cats tend to live longer than purebreds. The former has an average lifespan of 11.9 years, and the latter is at 10.4 years. But which breeds will live the longest? According to the data, the  Birman and  Burmese cats are at the very top of the list, both having an average life expectancy of 14.4 years. At the very bottom are  Bengal cats and  Sphynxes, having life expectancies of 8.5 and 6.7 years respectively. Another key result achieved by this team is known as “life tables”. This helps predict the average remaining lifespan of cats at different ages. It can also be used to help cat owners decide how to treat their ill pets. “If your cat is 11 or 12 years old and is only expected to live another year, then it’s probably not worth doing surgery, for example,” says O’Neill.

Should You Bathe Your Cat?

We’ve all seen those old-school cartoons in which cats absolutely hate water or taking baths. Is there truth to that myth? Should you even question bathing your feline friend? Well, believe it or not, bathing a cat is a topic of much debate amongst owners. Some believe that it is paramount for maintaining their cat’s hygiene, while others think it is stressful and unnecessary. But what is the final word? There are several factors to consider, so let’s delve into it.Cats – and all felines in general – are well known for their cleanliness. They spend a significant amount of time grooming themselves and will use their tongues to remove dirt, parasites, and all that loose fur. This is their natural behavior and cemented their reputation as clean and orderly animals. Besides this, the behavior ensures that their coat remains clean and it reduces the need for frequent baths. And, in fact, regular grooming is sufficient to maintain a clean and healthy coat – for most cats. And while many cats never really need a bath, there are situations where it might be necessary. For example, if your cat has gotten into something greasy, sticky, or even toxic, a bath might be the only possible way to remove that dirt. Similarly, if your kitty has a skin condition, your vet could recommend medicated baths as part of the treatment.What is more, certain long-haired felines, such as Persian cats, could also benefit from an occasional bath. This will prevent matting and keep their fur in good condition. It should also be noted that cats with certain health issues, such as arthritis and obesity, might have problems grooming themselves. In such cases, you need to help them stay clean with a bath. If you decide that your cat needs a bath, it is important to do it safely and calmly. Cats are not usually fond of water and are often willful. So the experience could be a bit stressful for them. In order to minimize that stress, you should choose a quiet time when your cat is calm and relaxed. Use lukewarm water and a shampoo designed specifically for cats. Remember that human products can be too harsh for a cat’s sensitive skin. 

Can You Get Worms From Your Dog?

Sharing your life with a dog is such a joy – but sometimes, you end up sharing a bit more than you'd want to. And no, we’re not talking about your bed. One common concern among pet owners is the possibility of contracting worms from their dogs. But this, in turn, raises more questions: how are worms transmitted, what types of worms are there, what are the symptoms, and what preventive measures can owners take? Read on to learn more about best practices to ensure your and your pet’s safety when it comes to intestinal parasites.Can You Get Worms From Your Dog?The first thing owners need to know is the types of worms that can affect their pets. While doggos can contract these worms through various means, such as ingestion of infected feces or soil, flea bites, or through their mother’s milk, the risk of transmission to humans varies with each type.Roundworms:These are the most common intestinal parasites in dogs. They can be transmitted to humans, especially children, through accidental ingestion of contaminated soil or feces. The larvae of these worms can migrate through the body, causing a condition known as visceral larva migrans.Hookworms:These parasites can also infect humans through direct contact with contaminated soil. The larvae penetrate the skin, leading to a condition called cutaneous larva migrans, which manifests as itchy, red trails on the skin.Tapeworms:These are usually transmitted to dogs through the ingestion of fleas that carry tapeworm larvae. While direct transmission from dogs to humans is rare, it can occur if a person accidentally ingests an infected flea.Whipworms:These worms are less common and primarily infect dogs through the ingestion of contaminated soil. Human infection is rare but possible.Human infection with dog worms primarily occurs through accidental ingestion or skin contact with contaminated soil or feces. Children, due to their tendency to play in the dirt and their less stringent hygiene practices, are at higher risk. Adults can also be infected, particularly if they handle soil or dog feces without proper precautions.Preventing worm transmission from dogs to humans involves a combination of good hygiene practices and regular veterinary care for your pet. Here are some key preventive measures:Ensure that your dog is regularly dewormed according to your vet’s recommendations. This helps reduce the risk of your dog contracting and spreading worms.

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