DNA Profiling Keeps the Streets of This French Tourist Town Poop-Free

by Mary Simpson

Published: October 1st, 2023

Photo Credit: Dejan Dundjerski/Shutterstock.com

The mayor of Béziers, a small town in southern France is mad as hell and he isn’t going to take it anymore. Take what, you’re asking? The messy, smelly dog poop that errant pet owners have been failing to “collect” when walking their pooches along the picturesque streets of this storybook city.

He’s decided to put his foot down and begin an aggressive program that will fine pet parents who fail to clean up after their dogs.

So, right off the mark one has to wonder what a city council can possibly do to stop this type of behavior. Well, it seems that Béziers has introduced a not-so-unique practice when it comes to nailing down the perp (and perp pooch). It’s an approach that’s already in place in a number of cities ranging from London to Tel Aviv and even Valencia, Spain and it includes tracking offenders using DNA. Yes, dog poop left behind is being collected and profiled to identify the culprit - and, by association, the culprit’s human accomplice.

How are they able to link a random poop back to a specific dog? It’s actually fairly straightforward – all dogs in this town are required to have submitted a DNA sample that can be used for comparison to the errant doo-doo. For the duration of the two-year pilot, every single pet owner must have had their dog’s saliva tested with the results being officially entered into a database by the town’s own veterinary specialist. Once done, a document or “genetic passport” is issued and the owner must carry this proof of testing with them any time they’re out for a walk with their dog.

If you’re caught strolling with Rover and don’t have the necessary document, you can be fined approximately $40 USD. And if you fail to stoop/scoop and it’s discovered that his DNA is fouling up the streets, the fine can be as much as $130 USD.

In Mislata, near Valencia, pet owners can face a much heftier fine of over $300 USD for non-registration and a further $200 USD if they fail to clean up their dog’s “output”.

Understanding that this may be new news for many tourists visiting Béziers for the first time, the city has confirmed there will be a certain measure of leniency for non-residents. There will also be a three-month “ramp-up” phase for the townsfolk as they get up to speed with this new program.

But this method of tracking isn’t unique to Europe. Condo boards and apartment management companies from New York to Denver in the United States and Toronto to West Vancouver in Canada have initiated this same process for identifying and dealing with repeat offenders in a bid to keep their grounds safe and sanitary for residents. But for an entire town to go poop-free… now that’s ambitious!

Mary Simpson

Sharing space with three seriously judgy Schnoodles and a feline who prefers to be left alone. #LivingMyBestLife

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Can I Fly with My Cat on My Next Vacation?

Are you dreaming of a vacation with your best friend by your side? What if that best friend is a cat? While many airlines allow cats to fly with you, navigating the rules and regulations can be overwhelming.But don’t worry; we’re here to guide you through the process (and minimize your travel-related stress).This post will break down everything you need to know about cat-friendly air travel, from knowing what to pack to deciding if airline travel is even the right choice for your cat – we will cover all the bases. Start planning your next getaway today!What Airlines Let You Fly with Cats? When discussing pet-friendly air travel and the requirements for flying with a pet, most people refer to flying with a dog. But what about cats? Do all dog-friendly airlines also allow feline passengers? Generally speaking, any airline allowing small dogs to fly will also permit cats. This includes (but isn’t limited to): Air CanadaAlaska AirlinesAmerican AirlinesDelta Air Lines Frontier Airlines Hawaiian Airlines JetBlue Airways Southwest AirlinesSpirit AirlinesUnited AirlinesHowever, we always recommend checking with the airline before assuming any flight will be cat-friendly. For example, an airline that allows cats to travel in the cabin on a domestic flight may not when traveling internationally. This may take a little extra effort, but it could help you avoid an unpleasant surprise on the day of your planned vacation! How Much Does It Cost to Fly with a Cat? The fees associated with traveling with a pet vary significantly from airline to airline. Some airlines will charge one set fee for your flight regardless of layovers, while others will charge additional fees if you have a layover that exceeds a set length of time. Always ask for clarification when booking your flights to ensure there are no surprises on travel day. Based on our research, pet fees typically range from $95 to $150 for each leg of the journey. Unlike the others on the list above, Alaska Airlines doesn’t charge per pet. Instead, they charge per carrier and allow up to 2 pets in a single carrier if they fit comfortably. This is great for anyone traveling with two small cats or kittens. Can My Cat Fly with Me in the Cabin? It depends. All the airlines we listed above allow cats to travel on domestic flights in the cabin. The only requirement is that the cat fit comfortably in a carrier that is small enough to fit under the seat in front of you during the flight. While this is a defining statement for dogs, it encompasses all domestic cats. However, this isn’t always true for international travel. Rules when traveling to other countries are often stricter, and your cat could have to fly in cargo. If you’re planning an international trip, contact the airline for clarification.

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'PrePup' Agreement Helps Owners Co-Parent After a Breakup

When you end a relationship, things can get messy – even more so when you have a pet whose ownership you share with your ex. Your pooch shouldn’t be affected by the new state of things, though, which is why Rover.com created the “ PrePup Checklist”, specifically for this reason – to help couples that want a pet together consider what they would to ensure their dog’s well-being do in case their relationship doesn’t work out. The classic prenuptial agreement requires couples to think ahead and consider what would happen to their shared assets, specifically in the case of the death of a spouse or divorce. Similarly, Rover’s “PrePup Checklist” helps couples to consider how the shared responsibilities of pet ownership would be handled if – somewhere down the line – they were to split up. Of course, in difference to the prenuptial agreement, the “PrePup Checklist” is not a legally binding contract. Kristina Bergsten of The Animal Law Firm advises those who look to protect their pets legally to add “some paragraphs about who any pets belong to or what you're going to do if you adopt a pet during the marriage" to a prenuptial agreement. In August 2023, Bergsten told PEOPLE that if pets are not mentioned in a prenup, “the property settlement agreement will determine who gets the pet” in a divorce. And now, the “PrePup Checklist” wants to avoid making couples rely on property agreements so they can determine what happens to their pets during a divorce. Rover came to the idea of the checklist after conducting a survey that revealed that 56% of pet owners never discussed with their partner who would get the pet if they broke up.Rover’s checklist starts with prompts specifically asking owners to assign responsibilities for each “pet parent”. For example, who would be in charge of the walking schedule, and who would be in charge of the feeding, etc.The second part of this agreement asks new couples to consider “having difficult conversations about the future”, which includes the splitting of financial responsibilities of pet ownership, and deciding who the pet will live with in case of an eventual breakup."It's important for couples to elevate animal well-being and commit to co-parenting in healthy ways for the health and well-being of their dogs. It is widely recognized in animal welfare science that dogs and other animals can self-regulate and find innate strategies for coping with stress and anxiety when they are feeling safe, secure, and familiar with their social relationships," said Philip Tedeschi, a professor, and researcher on the human-animal bond who works with Rover."One of the most prominent indicators of their sense of security comes from their proximity to other members of the family. Having conversations about the future and what may happen if there is a disruption to a pet's life would benefit them, offer predictability, and keep them close to the ones they connect with," he added.The PrePup Checklist also includes a place where the couple’s new pet can “cosign” on anything that was discussed and agreed upon. The ultimate goal of Rover is to strengthen the bond between couples, but also between pets and their new owners.

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.

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A Cat With a First-Person Camera Shows World Through Feline Eyes

I always say, that if I could live one day as one of my cats, I’d jump at the opportunity – and get some much-deserved beauty sleep. But while we can’t switch places with our pets, thanks to new technologies, we can get a glimpse into their world. With the help of the  Insta360 Go  camera, one innovative cat owner got to see what his four-legged bestie sees – and he’s sharing it with the world on TikTok, where the videos quickly went viral.The little cat cameraman is named Mr. Kitters, and the footage he made was uploaded to the TikTok channel Mr. Kitters the Cat  (@mr.kitters.the.cat). All the videos feature a “cat’s-eye” view of the world explored by little Mr. Kitters. This POV experience will really show you how it is to be a cat and adventure the wide expanse of the yard on a daily.One video, titled “Places to go and people to meet”, garnered more than 110 million views on TikTok, an incredible number in itself! The scenario of this video is pure feline fun: Mr.Kitters explores his environment, meeting critters on the way – including a squirrel, whom he seemingly has a conversation with.  

12-Year-Old Rescue Cat’s Reaction to First Toy Melts Hearts

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Is Fetch a Safe Game for My Dog?

It’s a classic game enjoyed by dogs and owners everywhere over the years, but have you wondered if the endless throwing and chasing involved in a game of fetch is putting extra strain on your dog?Experts are now warning about the potential dangers of fetch for dogs.This article will explore the potential benefits and hazards of this beloved game. Plus, I’ll share ways you can tailor a game of fetch to suit your dog’s breed, age, and overall health, ensuring you can both enjoy playtime worry-free.Keep reading to learn how to make fetch a safe and rewarding activity for you and your dog. Why Do Dogs Like Playing Fetch? Experts believe dogs enjoy playing fetch for several reasons. At the most basic level, the game mimics hunting prey, tapping into dogs' instincts. When the stick, ball, or toy is thrown, the movement of it flying through the air represents their prey on the run (or flying). They then take off after their “prey” to hunt it down. Another instinct a game of fetch could trigger is the desire to retrieve, which has been bred into some dogs, like Labrador Retrievers and Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers. These dog breeds have been carefully bred over generations to be skilled at finding and retrieving game during a hunt. Even if your dog has never been hunting, the instincts may still drive this response. Perhaps the most heartfelt explanation is the purpose of fetch as a form of play. As dogs have been domesticated, they began to form close bonds with their humans. An interactive game of fetch is an excellent bonding opportunity; your dog knows it! Is Fetch Good Exercise for Dogs? Yes! When done correctly, paying attention to the risks that we will discuss next, fetch can be an excellent way to keep your dog active and healthy. It encourages exercise in a way that is enjoyable for the dog and accessible for most people, even if they don’t have the physical ability to go for long walks or hikes. Increased activity helps prevent obesity and the many health-related struggles that come with it. These struggles include: Arthritis and other joint issues Diabetes HypertensionHigh blood pressure Some forms of cancerWhy Fetch is Bad for Dogs?Have you heard the recent warnings from veterinarians, dog trainers, and other pet-related experts about the risks of playing fetch? If so, you may wonder, what is bad about playing fetch with your dog? While the game isn’t guaranteed to be a dangerous or unsafe activity, some elements of how we usually engage in the game could lead to accidents, injuries, or long-term damage. Repetitive Motion Injuries One of the most understated risks associated with a traditional game of fetch is the physical injuries that can occur from the quick and demanding movements it requires. When you first throw your dog’s ball or toy, they must propel themselves forward, instantly moving from standing still to a full run. When they reach the ball, they must slow down or “put on the brakes” on a dime, often twisting their body (sometimes in odd or harmful ways) if it’s bouncing to catch it. They then have to take off once again to run back to you. These movements create several opportunities for injury. These movements are hard on your dog’s joints. From the physical demands of pushing off from their hind quarters to run from a complete stop to the impact of trying to stop on a dime, this can cause injuries at the time or, over time, contribute to conditions like arthritis and worsening hip dysplasia. Other physical injuries that can come from these repetitive moments include: Cruciate Ligament tears (CCL tears) Jammed or broken toes Ripped or damaged paw pads Muscle strains Slip and fall injuriesDental DamageAnother injury that can occur because of a game of fetch is damage to your dog’s teeth. This happens when playing fetch with a hard or unforgiving toy, like a plastic ball, that contacts your dog’s teeth when trying to catch it. The result is often cracked, chipped, or broken teeth. This is not only expensive to treat but also incredibly painful for your dog. Risks of Fetch with Sticks A favorite “toy” for a game of fetch is a basic stick found on the ground. While this may appear to be a budget-friendly way to exercise your dog at first glance, the resulting vet bills from a stick-related injury far outweigh the savings of not buying a suitable fetch toy. A growing number of veterinarians and veterinary surgeons are warning dog parents about the risks of stick injuries in dogs, including: Slivers or splinters in their mouth or between their teethSplinters causing internal damage if eaten Sticks getting lodged in the throat when being caught Impalement to the chest or throat Choking on small pieces of wood and bark Intestinal blockage if these pieces of wood and bark are ingestedThese injuries range from minor inconveniences to potentially life-threatening conditions.

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Gen Zers Finding It Hard to Afford Pets

Everyone these days is feeling the effects of increased prices for everything from groceries and medical care to recreation and pet care. But a survey by LendingTree, which involved 1,991 consumers between the ages of 18 and 78 in the United States, found that Gen Zers, in particular, are struggling with affording their pets because of the rising cost of living.

How to Recognize an Overheated Horse

While countries worldwide are recording the hottest summers to date, it’s undeniable that the heat of the sun is becoming unbearable to creatures of all shapes and sizes. Due to this, sunstroke and overheating have become very real threats. Just like humans, horses are also susceptible to overheating, especially during strenuous activities or in hot weather. Overheating, also known as heat stress or heat exhaustion, can pose serious health risks to a horse, even leading to life-threatening conditions if not addressed promptly. Knowing the signs of an overheated horse is crucial for all horse owners, riders, and caretakers to ensure the animal’s well-being. So here are some key indicators that your horse might be overheating.Heavy BreathingOne of the first signs of overheating in horses is rapid, heavy breathing. While an increased breathing rate is normal after physical activity, an overheated horse will continue to breathe heavily for an extended period, even after resting. This is the horse’s way of trying to cool down by expelling excess heat through its respiratory system. If you notice that your horse’s breathing doesn’t slow down after several minutes of rest or if it’s struggling to catch its breath, this could be a sign of heat stress.Excess SweatSweating is a horse's natural mechanism for cooling itself down, but excessive sweating can indicate overheating. You may notice large amounts of sweat, especially in areas such as the neck, chest, flanks, and behind the ears. In some cases, an overheated horse may even stop sweating, which is a critical warning sign. If your horse is sweating profusely or has suddenly stopped sweating despite high temperatures or activity, it’s time to take action.Elevated Heart RateA horse’s heart rate typically increases with exercise, but in an overheated horse, the heart rate remains elevated long after the activity has stopped. You can check your horse’s heart rate by placing your fingers under the jaw or at the horse’s girth area. A resting heart rate that stays above 60 beats per minute for more than 10 minutes is cause for concern.Lethargy and WeaknessOverheated horses often become lethargic and may appear weak or disoriented. They might be slow to respond to commands, stumble, or have difficulty standing. If your horse seems unusually tired or is moving sluggishly, especially after exertion in hot conditions, this is a potential sign of overheating.Loss of Appetite and ThirstAn overheated horse may lose interest in food and water, which is particularly dangerous since dehydration can worsen the situation. If your horse refuses to drink water or eat, it may be because it is already experiencing the effects of heat stress.Dry and Sticky Mucous MembranesCheck your horse’s gums and the inner lining of its mouth. In a healthy horse, these membranes are moist and pink. In an overheated horse, the membranes may feel dry or sticky and appear pale. This is a sign of dehydration and should be treated immediately.Muscle Stiffness and TremorsMuscle tremors, stiffness, or shaking can be symptoms of an overheated horse. These physical reactions occur because the horse’s body is struggling to regulate its temperature. If you notice your horse shaking or its muscles twitching uncontrollably, take immediate steps to cool it down.

Chubby Kitties Are Helping Study Obesity in People

Chubby kitties might be as cute as it gets, but that doesn’t mean that their extra fluff isn’t leaving a mark on their health. Coincidentally, it seems that the effect obesity has on feline health can be compared to humans dealing with the same condition – a recent scientific study claims that fat cats can help researchers better understand the way gut bacteria influence conditions like obesity and type 2 diabetes.The study focused on food-related changes in the gut microbiome of chubby cats. The results showed that there are striking similarities in the way diet affects the gut of humans. The study’s results were published in the journal Scientific Reports, and are revolutionary in many ways. In fact, the researchers say that it is cats that could be the ideal source of information about the human microbiome, and whether changes in gut bacteria can help fight obesity.“Being able to see changes in cats that come up in the context of obesity and type 2 diabetes in people makes them a really good model to start looking at more microbiome-directed therapeutics for obesity in humans if we’re seeing a similar shift,” said lead researcher Dr. Jenessa Weston, an assistant professor of veterinary clinical sciences at Ohio State University.“Animals share our beds. They share our ice cream. There are all these things that people do with their pets that highlight they are a naturally occurring disease model with similar environmental exposures as humans,” she added.During the course of the study, the scientific team fed seven obese cats a specially crafted diet for 16 weeks. Gradually, the diet progressed: from free-feeding of commercial cat food to feeding a special weight-loss diet, and finally to a calorie-restricted feeding on the special weight-loss food. It was subsequently discovered that a short-chain fatty acid, called propionic, increased significantly in fecal samples of cats who were losing weight on the calorie-restricted diet. It was shown that propionic acid can help regulate appetite in other mammals, and reduce fat accumulation, as well as protect against obesity and diabetes. The team concluded that the increase in propionic acid was connected to the increase in the gut bacterium Prevotella Copri. “When the cats are on the special diet formulated for weight loss, propionic acid goes up and stays high, and then goes back down when they’re put back on the maintenance diet. So, it really is a dietary change,” Winston said.“This paper highlights that when we calorie-restrict cats that are obese, we can alter their microbial ecosystem - and those community shifts that we see likely correlate with some metabolic outcomes,” she added.What these results show is that the observed changes in the gut bacteria of fat cats can provide important insights into how diet affects the human gut microbiome. “Microbes we saw in this study also come up again and again in human studies - and clearly, people aren’t eating cat chow, right?” she said.

How Do I Travel with a Small Animal or Reptile?

Whether you’re planning an epic road trip, a family vacation, or simply need to transport your pet for a vet appointment, traveling with a pet always requires careful planning and preparation. Many guides are available, sharing tips and tricks for traveling with dogs and cats, but what about the many other pets we share our hearts and homes with?From choosing the right carrier to ensuring your pet is safe and comfortable throughout your adventure, we’ve thought of it all. This guide will provide essential tips for stress-free travel with your small animal or reptile.Do Reptiles or Small Animals Like Traveling? Before planning your big adventure with your pet by your side, take a moment to ask yourself an important question – will your pet be comfortable traveling? The answer to this is going to vary from pet to pet. While some are comfortable in new environments or around people they don’t know, others will find this experience incredibly stressful. Excess stress can harm your pet’s health and well-being. It has been associated with a weakened immune system, gastrointestinal problems, an increased risk of heart disease, and skin issues. It’s also considered the root cause of many common behavioral problems. If you know that traveling will likely trigger stress or anxiety in your pet, you may want to reconsider your plans. It may not be in their best interest to join you on your next vacation or getaway. Instead, find a reputable pet sitter to care for them while you’re gone in the comfort of their own home. However, there are also situations where this may be unavailable. For example, if you are moving to a new home, your pet will have to make the trip. You may not be able to eliminate all stress, but you can focus on making the situation as comfortable as possible with the following tips and tricks. What is the Best Way to Transport a Reptile? We don’t often see reptiles traveling with their people, and this is for one clear reason – even when a reptile is being transported, the best way to do it is in a secure container that minimizes their outside exposure. Reptiles are far more sensitive to temperature changes than most other pets. Keeping them in a secure but well-ventilated container allows you to maintain as stable a temperature as possible throughout your travels. Before heading out, check the weather. Will you be navigating hot summer temperatures or the cold of winter? Prepare to address these problems in advance by using heat packs or insulating the container they will be traveling in. Introduce your reptile to the container days or even weeks before your trip. Start with very short periods in the container and work up over time, allowing them to get used to being there. This isn’t a quick process, but it will help to lower stress levels during your travels. If traveling with a snake, you can also use a breathable snake bag or secure pillowcase to help them feel safe and secure. What is the Best Way to Transport a Small Animal? The term “small animal” refers to a wide range of animals, each with their own needs. This can significantly impact the best way to travel with your pet. The smallest of our beloved pocket pets, like mice and hamsters, should be transported in a secure cage or carrier. The size and style of the carrier will depend on how you are traveling and the length of your trip. For example, a flight-approved carrier has strict rules you will need to consider. However, if you’re taking a road trip with your pet and have space in your vehicle, you could even transport your pet in a standard cage or habitat, like the Kaytee CritterTrail Simple Start Habitat. These small enclosures may not offer the recommended long-term living space, but they are a great option for traveling in style. Another small animal carrier that is highly recommended is the Kaytee Come Along Carrier. Pay careful attention to anything in the cage/carrier that could be knocked over or thrown around if you are forced to hit the brakes. Secure the carrier or cage where possible to keep it from being thrown in an accident. A sheet or blanket can be placed over the carrier to reduce outside stimuli and create a more comfortable environment, but be sure that proper ventilation is maintained. Consider adding something familiar, like a favorite toy or blanket when setting up the cage or carrier. For some pets, a piece of your clothing, like a t-shirt you have worn with your scent, is also comforting and can help reduce stress. Larger small animals, like rabbits or ferrets, may also be comfortable traveling in a backpack or carrier designed for cats or small dogs. Ensure they will be secure in the carrier with no risk of escape. 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Pet policies are constantly changing and evolving. To ensure your pet will be welcome on the plane with you, contact the airline you are considering flying with and ask for their most up-to-date rules and regulations to determine what pets are permitted and the carrier requirements.

Cat Learns to Turn on the Sink Faucet, Causing Cat-astrophic Flood

A typically easy-going cat named Sam surprised his owners by learning how to turn on the bathroom sink, causing some major damage to the house. Alana Matson, asked for some pet destruction stories on TikTok while recalling how her cat, Sam, flooded her house. Like many other felines, Sam discovered how to use the bathroom sink to drink water. Sam’s newfound skill led to utter chaos when he left the water flowing one night, flooding the upstairs bathroom.To make matters worse, Matson was heavily pregnant at the time, and about to give birth to twins. “Sam is normally a really low-key cat. He is an indoor cat, so typically, he’s just lounging or tucked under a blanket somewhere. He generally only makes his presence known when the terror of his food bowl being empty sets in, or he is looking for a pet,” Matson told the PEOPLE.Matson and her husband assumed their kids, 10 and 12 at the time, were to blame for the first few times the sink was left running. The couple thought one of their kids was getting up at night and leaving the water running, but the children denied it. It wasn’t until they caught Sam in the act that they realized it had been him all along.The family tried several things to discourage Sam from turning on the sink, including putting a rubber band around the handle. Unfortunately, nothing could stop Sam from turning on the sink to drink water and flooding the bathroom one night.“Little did I know that after I went to sleep that night, Sam the cat would venture into the bathroom and turn on the faucet and then sit on the drain to close it in the bottom of the sink, causing the Wet Bandits to come into my house and flood the bathroom into the kitchen,” said Matson in a video.The morning of the cat-astrophe, Matson's husband woke up first, only to discover a flooded upstairs bathroom. He cleaned the mess and went downstairs, thinking the problem had been solved. But as soon as he entered the kitchen he discovered water damage on the ceiling and water dripping on the kitchen floor. Although her husband thought he could fix the damage with some paint and towels, the ceiling started to buckle and Matson knew there wasn’t anything they could do to save it.“I immediately knew we had to notify our insurance company and figure out what to do. They are the ones who had a service crew to our house within hours to begin demolition and the dreaded industrial fans,” said Matson.While the crew worked on repairing the damages, Matson went to the hospital and delivered her twin daughters. “When I left, the kitchen floor and ceiling and the bathroom floor had been torn out and three massive dryers were running nonstop. Due to the pandemic, I was only in the hospital for 36 hours, so the house was in the same state when we arrived home.”Meanwhile, Sam was completely unaware that he was responsible for the chaos and even had the nerve to be annoyed by the presence of construction workers and dryers. Eventually, the family had to replace the sink, because Sam couldn’t be stopped. “We tried keeping the doors closed at night, but inevitably, it would be left open from time to time, and Sam would immediately go in and turn the water on. We realized it was more proactive to replace the vessel sink with a traditional model with an overflow valve.” Most TikTok users are happy that the family didn’t get rid of the cat instead of the sink. And although Sam has access to a cat fountain, he still prefers to drink water straight from the tap. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Why Do My Betta Fish’s Fins Look Ripped?

Have you noticed a ragged or torn fin on your betta fish? Don’t panic! Ripped fins often look bad, but they are a common struggle betta fish keepers face.This guide will explore the potential causes of betta fin damage, from environmental stress to rough tank mates. I’ll also share treatment options to help your betta look and feel great again and preventative measures to reduce the risk of future problems.Why Do My Betta Fish’s Fins Look Torn?There are several reasons you may notice damage to a betta fish’s fins, all of which require your prompt attention. An actual tear, split, or bite is the result of a physical injury. However, one other condition is often confused with a tear – fin rot.This condition results from poor water quality and excess stress levels, weakening the fish’s immune system. It’s commonly seen in bettas that are adopted from a pet store setting due to the small containers they are kept in and the overstimulating environment. The most significant visual difference between fin rot and a torn fin is the presence of black, brown, red, or white edges to the fin. You may also see small fuzzy growths or white spots on the fin.If you suspect your fish is suffering from fin rot, you will need to act quickly, as the condition becomes more difficult to treat the more it progresses. This includes quarantining the fish if they are in a community tank, cleaning the tank to prevent further problems, careful maintenance of the hospital tank, and the use of medication for more severe cases.4 Common Causes of Torn FinsFin damage or tears result from physical damage. However, this damage could have occurred from several different causes. The first step in helping your betta recover is to identify what happened. Here are a few of the most common causes of torn fins in betta fish:Tank DecorationsTake a moment to look at the decorations in your betta’s tank or aquarium. Run your fingers along the edge and feel for sharp or rough surfaces. Items like fake plants, decorative sculptures, rocks, and driftwood can snag your fish’s delicate fins as they brush against it while swimming past. Additionally, other tank features like heaters and thermometers may develop sharp edges if they are older and have suffered some wear and tear.Rough Tank MatesBettas are commonly known as aggressors but aren’t the only fish species that can get rough with others. Occasionally, even species known to be gentle community fish can bully others in the same aquarium. In these situations, the damage results from the aggressor biting your betta’s fins.There are several reasons why your fish may become aggressive towards one another, including:Poor water conditions causing stressLack of space for the number of fishFood availabilityTerritorial behaviorsIllness or diseaseThe behavior may also result from pairing your betta fish with incompatible tank mates. Not all fish species can live together peacefully.Improper Water ConditionsBetta fish can become stressed quickly from changes to their water conditions, lowering their immune systems and putting them at risk of damage to their fins. This is the result of stress caused by their environment. Check the conditions of your aquarium, including lighting, temperature, and pH balance.Something as simple as allowing the water temperature to drop too low can trigger damaging behaviors. When experiencing cold temperatures, for example, betta fish will often try to burrow into the aquarium gravel as a survival mechanism. The gravel can easily damage their fins during this process.BoredomWe have all seen the small, decorative fish tanks often marketed to betta fish. While these can be found on the shelves of almost every big box pet store, they aren’t suitable for proper betta fish care. If this is the first time you are hearing this, don’t blame yourself – there is a lack of education in the pet space relating to a betta’s needs. You purchased a product marketed specifically for betta fish, which is a well-meaning decision.Unfortunately, these little tanks lack the space needed for your betta to swim around comfortably, leading to boredom and increased stress. As your betta struggles with this feeling of boredom, they may start to bite and damage their fins.Will Torn Betta Fins Grow Back?Yes! If your betta’s fin damage is the result of a tear or bite (not fin rot), it can heal. But first, you will need to identify the cause of the damage and make changes to the aquarium to prevent it from happening again.

Does My Cat Have a Urinary Tract Infection?

Is your cat using the litterbox more frequently? Have you seen them straining or struggling to do their business? These are common signs of a urinary tract infection (UTI), a struggle faced by many aging cats.While a UTI is not life-threatening if caught early, it can be incredibly uncomfortable for your feline friend.This post will help you learn the signs and symptoms of a UTI in cats, understand the causes of an infection, and equip you with the information needed to decide if a trip to the vet is necessary. Most importantly, it will help you take steps to keep your cat feeling happy and healthy as quickly as possible.What Is A Urinary Tract Infection in Cats?Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are bacterial infections that occur in a cat’s bladder or urethra. UTIs are common in dogs but much less regularly seen in cats. However, senior cats and those with endocrine diseases, like hyperthyroidism or diabetes, are at a much higher risk. Luckily, these infections areas easily treated in most cases if caught and addressed early. This is why it’s so crucial for cat parents to be familiar with the warning signs.Common Symptoms of Urinary Tract Infections in CatsWhen a cat begins to experience an infection, the warning signs are subtle and may be hard to spot. This is further complicated by the fact that symptoms can mimic many other conditions that affect the urinary tract or bladder.The most common signs to watch out for include:Straining or struggling to urinateOnly passing small amounts of urine or failing to urinate completelyBlood in the urineCrying or vocalizing while urinatingIncreased frequency of urination Accidents outside the litterboxFrequent licking of the genitalsAs some of the conditions associated with these warning signs can be severe or life-threatening, and a UTI left unaddressed can quickly become more serious, you shouldn’t ignore any of the red flags. If you notice any of these signs, contact your veterinarian.Can Urinary Tract Infections in Cats Go Away on Their Own?If the infection is mild and your cat has a strong immune system, there is a chance that their body can fight off the infection effectively. However, this only occurs in the early stages, before any noticeable symptoms. If you have noticed any of the signs I listed above, the infection has likely progressed to the point that it requires treatment and veterinary care.Are Urinary Tract Infections Contagious?If you have multiple cats in your home, you will be relieved to hear that UTIs are not contagious from cat to cat. However, the development of a UTI in one cat could indicate that lifestyle or nutritional choices are being made that could increase the risk of other cats suffering from a similar struggle.This is a good sign to take a step back and reevaluate the decisions that have been made, including what you feed your cats, accessibility to fresh water (or encouragement to drink more water), and potential stress triggers. For more about this, keep reading to see tips to prevent a UTI in cats.How Does a Veterinarian Diagnose a UTI?When you first visit your vet’s office, they will conduct a physical exam and likely perform a urinalysis. This will help them better understand your cat’s physical condition and will help rule out many of the conditions associated with the warning signs. They will likely ask you several questions related to your cat’s lifestyle, water consumption, how often and how much they are urinating, and whether there have been any noticeable behavioral changes.The urinalysis checks your cat’s urine for the presence of substances like blood, proteins, sugar, and ketones. This provides unique insight into your cat’s overall health and well-being, helping your vet better understand what is happening.Your vet may also send a urine sample for a urine culture. This will confirm if there is a bacterial infection and the type of bacteria present. Unfortunately, a urine culture will often take several days before the results are available.Additional testing may be needed in rare cases, depending on the results of the initial exam. This could include x-rays, blood pressure, ultrasounds, or biopsies. Your veterinarian will provide you with more detailed information about what tests are needed and why they are necessary.

How to Introduce Your Cat to Your Baby

Are you preparing to welcome a new baby, and you want to be sure that your fur baby will be ready for such a big change? Cats are creatures of habit, so major shifts in their daily life, which happens when a child is born, can cause them to feel stressed. But if you take the right steps in advance and after you bring your baby home, you can ensure everyone in your family will adjust to the changes without anxiety.Check out the tips below on how to introduce your cat to your newborn.

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