Why Does My Dog Keep Licking His Paws?

by Kate Barrington

Published: December 10th, 2016

Is he cleaning? Are they itchy? Why does your dog keep licking his paws? If you’re looking to curtail this habit, get to the root of the issue.

Cats are notorious for spending most of their lives sleeping and cleaning themselves. Unfortunately, dogs do not have the same affinity for keeping clean but many of them do have a tendency to lick their paws. What is the reason behind this behavior?

Potential Reasons for Licking

In many cases, licking his paws is something your dog does out of boredom with no real reason. In other cases, however, it could be a sign of a medical problem that should not be ignored. Especially if your dog suddenly starts licking his paws more often than usual, you should take a closer look.

If you notice areas of red, swollen inflammation – especially between his toes – it is definitely cause for concern. When your dog’s paws are itchy (potentially due to some kind of allergy), licking them is a natural response. The increased moisture, however, can sometimes lead to a secondary yeast infection or bacterial infection which is bad news for your dog. One of the most common reasons that dogs start licking their paws in the first place is poor diet.

How to Stop Your Dog from Licking

Before you can take steps to stop your dog from licking his paws, you first need to determine why he is doing it. If you take a closer look at your dog’s paws you may find some kind of foreign body stuck between his toes that is causing irritation – a burr, for example. If there is no foreign body but your dog’s paws are red and inflamed, it is most likely due to some kind of allergy.

Dogs can develop severe reactions to flea bites, for example, so you may want to check your dog for fleas. If fleas aren’t the issue, it is most likely a reaction to something in your dog’s food. In many cases, dogs that develop food allergies develop them for grains (like corn and wheat), dairy products, or common proteins (like chicken or beef). Fortunately, remedying this kind of problem is fairly simple.

To solve your dog’s food allergy problems, your best bet is to switch him over to a limited ingredient diet (LID). This is a type of commercial dog food made with a limited number of ingredients including novel sources for protein and carbohydrates. The limited number of ingredients decreases the potential triggers for food allergies, and the use of a novel source of protein and carbohydrate (novel simply means something your dog has never eaten before) reduces the risk even further.

You should transition your dog onto the new food over the course of 5 to 7 days then keep him on the diet for 12 weeks, or until all signs of the allergy disappear. At that point you can choose to reintroduce potential allergens one at a time until you identify the culprit, or you can keep feeding him the LID.

While it may not be a sign of trouble if your dog licks his paws from time to time, excessive licking or chewing is frequently an indication of a medical problem. Talk to your vet about the potential causes for your dog’s behavior and come up with a treatment plan together.

Kate Barrington

Kate Barrington is the loving owner of two cats (Bagel and Munchkin) and a noisy herd of guinea pigs. Having grown up with golden retrievers, Kate has a great deal of experience with dogs but labels herself a lover of all pets. Having received a Bachelor's degree in English, Kate has combined her love for pets and her passion for writing to create her own freelance writing business, specializing in the pet niche.

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Why Does My Dog Paw or "Dig" His Food Bowl?

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Why Is My Dog Licking and Chewing His Paws?

You might think it’s gross, but your pooch certainly doesn’t – canines are known to lick themselves as a way of grooming. While your dog might lick their body thoroughly to keep it clean, sometimes, their self-grooming can be abnormal. If you notice that your pet is licking or even chewing their paws obsessively, it should raise concern. This type of behavior might indicate an underlying medical issue, so here’s what you need to know before you phone your vet.Is It Normal for Dogs to Lick and Chew Their Paws?While some licking of their paws after they get dirty can be perfectly normal, constant licking or chewing of the paws is certainly not usual behavior. There could be several reasons behind this, and it could indicate that your attention and even intervention are needed. Here are some of the most common reasons why dogs lick and chew their paws.Allergies:  Allergies, including food allergies, environmental allergies (such as pollen or dust mites), and contact allergies (for example, from cleaning products or lawn chemicals), can lead to itching and discomfort in dogs. Paw licking and chewing can be a response to this itching. If you suspect that an allergy might be in question, don’t hesitate to visit your vet.Skin irritation or infection: If your dog's paws are red, swollen, or have an unpleasant odor, it may indicate a  skin infection or irritation. Bacterial or fungal infections, as well as foreign objects like splinters or thorns, can lead to serious issues down the road. Again, if you notice any of the above, it’s time to visit the vet.Dry or cracked paw pads: Dry or cracked paw pads can be uncomfortable for dogs. Licking and chewing may be their way of trying to soothe the discomfort. This happens to many dogs, and can be caused by their environment, the surface on which they walk, and many other things. Luckily, you can prevent this with paw wax that will create a barrier between the pads and the walking surface, or treat existing issues with paw butter that soothes and repairs the pads. This particular  2-in-1 paw butter and wax is a favorite of mine because it is made from all-natural ingredients and heals cracked paws in no time – while simultaneously preventing future irritation and dryness. 

Why Do Dogs Circle Before They Lie Down?

Watching your dog try to find a place to relax can make you dizzy! Have you ever wondered why do dogs circle before they lie down? It’s time to finally find out. Every person who has ever owned a dog can agree on one thing: pooches can be real weirdos. Seriously, dogs do some strange things and the reasons behind this weirdness are not always that obvious. Well, at least not to our human brains. Dog brains are a very different mental beast. For instance, doggos like to hump things they find precious (e.g. your leg) or make eye contact with their owners while they poop in the backyard. Dogs, not owners, just to be clear (although no judgement on our part if you are the exception to the rule). Your dog probably has a variety of quirks of his own that make him uniquely freaky, but one those strange behaviors that most dogs exhibit is circling before they lie down. You know, that little ciruclar march they make before plopping down for a rest. 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All will be revealed… Your Dog’s Natural Instincts As you might have expected, the answer to the secret reason behind your dog’s unusual yet common behavior lies in his ancestry. This isn’t exactly a habit that dogs developed overnight, but an instinct buried deep within their psyche for generations upon generations. Your dog might not look anything like a wolf, but he’s descended from wild dogs and still has carry-over natural instincts. For instance, one of those residual ancestral instincts is scent marking by urine, or burrowing under blankets to feel safer, comfier and satisfy their denning instincts. Though animal behavior experts don’t unanimously agree, some believe that circling before lying down is a residual behavior leftover from a dog’s days living in the wild. Before lying down on the ground, wild wolves sometimes turn in circles to stamp down the grass or snow to create a more level surface – it’s almost like creating a nest. 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Seasonal Allergies Bring Scratches and Sniffles in Our Pets

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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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Does My Dog Need a Stroller?

Is a dog stroller a necessity or an extravagant splurge? While some may raise an eyebrow at the site of a dog riding comfortably in their stroller, these seemingly luxury items offer many benefits for both dogs and their owners. From providing a safe and comfortable way to transport your dog in various settings to accommodating mobility concerns and enhancing their quality of life, let’s explore why a dog stroller may be a great choice for your dog. Plus, I’ll share tips for choosing the best dog stroller for your pup and how to incorporate it effectively into your daily routine. What Are Dog Strollers? Let’s start at the beginning. What exactly are dog strollers? Are they the same as baby strollers? Can the two be used interchangeably? While dog strollers look similar to baby strollers in many ways, they have a few key features that differentiate the two. Most importantly, dog strollers incorporate a way to keep your dog secured and held in place so they can’t hop out and escape, like a zippered mesh cover or a leash attachment that can be hooked to their harness. They are often described as a “fancy dog crate on wheels.” The most basic models are soft-sided dog crates with wheels and a handle. But most offer other features, like adjustable or padded handlebars, cup holders, storage pockets and compartments, sunshades, and ramps for easy access. Is it Okay to Put Your Dog in a Stroller? An important question that every pet parent should ask when being introduced to a new product is whether it’s actually safe and beneficial for your pet. After all, just because it’s being sold and marketed doesn’t mean it’s good for them. When it comes to dog strollers, the answer is “maybe.” If you have a healthy dog, only taking them out in a stroller and not making space for the exercise and physical activity they require can lead to a whole list of health problems. However, there are many situations where a dog stroller can be used to improve your dog’s quality of health. In short, this means that, yes, there are times when it is okay to put your dog in a stroller. It is our responsibility as dog parents to recognize the right time and place for their use. Are Dog Strollers Only for Small Dogs? One of the most common misconceptions about dog strollers is that they are only designed for small dogs or toy breeds. While this is arguably the most common type of dog stroller on the market, it’s not the only option. Recognizing the benefits these products offer, many brands now make dog strollers with larger dogs in mind. This includes creating sturdier frames that can support heavier weights, offering more room for large dogs to sit or lie down comfortably, and even adding features like ramps to help our larger friends get in and out of the stroller when lifting them isn’t an option. A great example is the HPZ Pet Rover Titan-HD, designed for dogs up to 100 LBS. So, while your standard stroller may not be the right solution (not without breaking it), big dog strollers are available!

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Lyft is Making it Easier Than Ever to Travel With Pets!

Great news! Lyft, the popular ride-sharing app, has now introduced a new feature that’s sure to create excitement for pet parents everywhere: Pet Rides! This feature lets pet parents connect with pet-friendly drivers, guaranteeing your companion can join you on your adventures. Pet Rides officially launched on National Dog Day – celebrating the role dogs (and other pets) play in our lives. The convenient feature provides more flexibility for pet parents on the go.To use the feature, you will need to select “Pet Ride” when searching for ride availability. This will ensure that your options exclusively include drivers who have opted to allow pet travelers in their vehicles. The additional $4 (plus tax) fee for the Pet Ride will be factored into the upfront price shown in the app. However, an extra cleaning fee may be charged if your pet leaves an excessive mess or damages the vehicle during the trip.Of course, this is for companion pets, not service animals. Drivers are still required to accommodate service animals, per the Americans with Disabilities Act.The Pet Ride feature allows for one pet per pet-friendly ride, with no restrictions related to breed or size. Additional pets may be permitted on the ride at the driver’s discretion, but it is not guaranteed. Pet rides are currently only available in the United States.This feature is similar to the Uber Pet feature offered by the most popular competitor, Uber.“At Lyft, we believe that everyone belongs, and that includes our four-legged family members,” stated Audrey Liu, the Executive Vice President and Head of Rider and Community Safety at Lyft. When asked about the feature, she explained that it will make it “easier than ever for pet owners to get where they need to go with their pets.”While there are no specific rules or requirements in terms of how a pet can travel in the vehicle, pet parents are asked to be respectful of the driver and other riders by keeping their pet in a carrier, on a blanket to keep any mess contained (like muddy paws or shed fur), or seated safely at your feet while the vehicle is in motion. If a dog does create an unsafe situation, serving as a distraction and putting the driver and any passengers in the vehicle at risk, the ride may be canceled.Traveling with pets can be stressful, especially if this is your first time. From trying to find pet-friendly accommodations to determining whether public transit options will even allow your pet to ride, a fun adventure can quickly become frustrating and overwhelming.By offering a pet-friendly ride option, Lyft is the latest company to demonstrate its commitment to creating options for pet-friendly travelers. But this isn’t the first time that Lyft has stepped up to create a safe and accommodating solution for a particular population among the app’s users. For example, Women+ Connect allows females and non-binary riders to request a female or non-binary driver, addressing safety concerns they may experience when getting into a vehicle with a stranger. As a pet-friendly traveler myself, I’m excited to see what companies in the travel industry will be the next to revolutionize travel as we know it with our furry (feathered, scaly, etc.) friends in mind!Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

First Pet Lounge Launched at Chinese Airport

Flying with pets can be stressful, from navigating security screening and busy airports to keeping your pet safe and settled on the flight. But Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport in China has decided that it’s time to make some changes to pet-friendly travel.After recognizing that a growing number of pets are traveling through the airport, it was decided that there was a demand for pet-specific accommodations. As a result, they created the first pet waiting lounge in the country, offering a comfortable place for pets to wait during layovers, flight delays, or unexpected cancellations.The lounge features 24-hour surveillance, temperature and humidity monitoring with alerts, and location tracking. It is regularly staffed and patrolled by pet specialists and offers both on-demand feeding and remote medical services as needed.The facility is approximately 2260 square feet (210 square meters) and was designed with pets in mind. It offers separate dog and cat zones, a pet entertainment area, and dedicated waiting spaces.“Pets are often treated as ‘live cargo’ in air transport, but the ‘furry children’ have already become members of many families,” explained Zhou Jie, general manager of Shenzen Airport Domestic Cargo Terminal. “The establishment of the pet lounge has changed the mode of mixed transport of pets and air cargo in the past. Based on the digital platform and internet of things technology, a remote medical diagnosis system and epidemic prevention measures have been introduced to provide pets with foster care, nursing, and other services to ensure their safety and comfort.”While this is the first pet-specific lounge in China, it’s not the first to be built worldwide. Several other airports have created specialized services to care for pets traveling through their doors or are near pet-focused accommodations.Directly next to Los Angeles International Airport, Kennel Club LAX provides luxury amenities for pet visitors, including a high-end pet hotel, grooming, spa treatments, training, a play area, and other activities to ensure that furry travelers enjoy the best possible experience during their stay. Soothing music helps to create a relaxing environment, and a dedicated free shuttle will ensure your pet doesn’t miss their flight.Another US-based example is the ARK at John F Kennedy Airport in Queens, New York. Unlike Kennel Club LAX, the ARK is airport-owned and operated – the only such facility currently operating in the country.In addition to dog and cat zones, the ARK offers care for horses, birds, and livestock. The ARK Pet Oasis, dedicated to caring for companion animals, features spacious kennels with 24-hour observation. Pets are provided with food, water, crate cleaning, opportunities for outdoor relief, and, if you choose to add the service, a bath. They are also uniquely qualified to assist with U.S. Customs Clearance.A USDA Level II certified veterinarian is on-site to provide care in the event of illness or emergency. When required, pets can be transported off-site to a nearby veterinary hospital.Dedicated pet lounges and facilities like those listed here are the exception. However, travel-loving pet parents across the country and worldwide can celebrate the fact that new accommodations continue to be developed and opened for pet travelers. We look forward to a pet-friendly future at airports everywhere!Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

According to ASPCA, These Are The Top 10 Pet Toxins of 2023

No matter how careful you are, accidents happen – this is particularly true when it comes to pet  poisoning cases. Not only that cats and dogs have some uncanny ability to get into stuff that they’re not supposed to get into, but you also can’t always know what things could be a potential toxin to them. And believe us when we say, there are a lot of potential pet toxins in an average household!The annual report by the  ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC)  only goes to prove this. Each year, they examine all the compiled data to determine which are the most commonly encountered pet toxins each year. It helps keep owners aware of the threats, and to keep vets always one step ahead. In 2023, the APCC was extra busy, having received hundreds of thousands of calls about items and substances that pets were exposed to. Incredibly, these substances totaled over 351,000!Even though they were contacted about such an imposing number of potentially hazardous substances, they managed to narrow down the most common culprits and compile the list of top 10 pet toxins in 2023, which will serve as a great reminder of what to look out for.Over-the-counter medications, including cold and flu medicines, ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and vitamins and supplements. With 16.8% exposure, these medications are the number one threat in 2023. Almost every home has some sort of medications stored, and they aren’t always expertly hidden. Accidentally, pets can discover them and suffer many dire consequences if they ingest them. Human food and drink are almost equally as dangerous, with 16.2% reported calls. A lot of what we consume daily is toxic to pets. This can range from common items such as raisins, onions, garlic, grapes, or sweets, to more rare items such as protein drinks and bars, xylitol gums, and energy drinks. If your pet gets their paws on any of these, it can end up in an emergency vet visit. Prescription medications for humans are very dangerous to pets, and many reports were made in regard to inhalers, ADHD medications, heart medications, and similar. Prescription medications are often strong drugs and definitely not meant for pets.Chocolate is the number 4 threat for 2023. A staggering 13% of calls were related to this sweet. Dogs are mostly found consuming it as cats do not have sweet taste buds or the appetite of dogs. Still, chocolate is not meant for pets and can cause many side effects.Veterinary products are at number 5 with 8.3% reported exposures. Callers reported ingestion of chewable tablets or soft chews, many of them used for calming pets. Owners are urged to keep medicines locked away, as pets can like their sweet taste and go after them when you are not looking. Plants and fungi accounted for 8.1% of exposures. Dogs are inquisitive and can find these plants on their outdoor adventures. But many plants can cause a threat to dogs, so make sure to acquaint yourself with a list of toxic plants to look out for.Household products are also on this list, with 7.1% of exposures reported. Pets consumed various dangerous items, such as deoxidizer packets, batteries, and various miscellanea lying around the house. Be aware of what’s lying around that’s easy to reach.Rodenticides are a major threat to pets. People can use poisons to get rid of pests, but our pets don’t know that. If they ingest them, it can be extremely dangerous, leading to kidney failure, bleeding, and even death. When you are out on walks, always be careful what is lying around. Insecticides are almost the same. People use bug sprays, ant baits, and poisonous powders all over the place. Always make sure that the area you are in is free from anything that can be a threat to your pet. Recreational drugs are last but not least. With substances such as marijuana becoming increasingly legal, pets can come in contact with them as well. But there are also hallucinogenic substances such as mushrooms, especially psilocybin, and muscarine, which can be very harmful to pets. 

When Can a Puppy Start Eating Kibble?

One of the most exciting milestones in your dog’s puppyhood is the transition from milk and soft foods to solid kibble. This marks a major step in their growth and development and ensures that they receive all the important nutrients for a healthy life. But even so, some owners are uncertain about when exactly kibble should be introduced.Understanding the right timing for this can be crucial for their good development and overall well-being as it helps set a solid foundation for a healthy diet later on in life. So here’s what you need to know before you offer dry food to your puppy.When Can a Puppy Start Eating Kibble?In the early first few weeks of their life, puppies rely entirely on their mother’s milk for nutrition. Nature arranged it so that this milk provides all the essential antibodies that boost their immune system and nutrients that are vital for their early growth. Usually, puppies should stay with their momma and littermates until they are at least 8 weeks old. During this time, they gradually transition from nursing to exploring more solid foods.Around 3 to 4 weeks of age, however, puppies begin showing more and more interest in the food that their mom is eating, and will often nibble on solid foods. These can be softened puppy food or kibble soaked in water. This helps them to become accustomed to all kinds of different textures and flavors, which in turn prepares them for eventually switching to dry kibble and other solid foods.In general, puppies can begin eating dry kibble between 6 and 8 weeks of age. At this stage, their little teeth are developing, and they have the jaw strength needed to chew solid foods efficiently. Still, it is important to choose high-quality puppy kibble formulated specifically for their nutritional needs. Go for a formula that is based on natural, wholesome ingredients and doesn’t contain any nasty filler or artificial substances – meat should be the first ingredient on the list, followed by sources of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, such as veggies and fruit.

Puppy Blues is a Real Thing – Just Like Baby Blues, Study Shows

There is no doubt that puppies are super cute. When you first bring a tiny little bundle of fur into your home, it is a cause of great joy. But sometimes, life can change in many ways as you care for your new pet. A latest scientific study published in Mental Health Research reveals that almost half of all dog owners can experience something reminiscent of the famous “baby blues” – only related to puppies instead of babies.Many owners will experience anxiety, frustration, or weariness during those first steps of their pet’s puppyhood. The study that was conducted at the University of Helsinki confirmed that owners will experience a short-term drop in mood, and great melancholy, while their pet is a puppy - something that is akin to the famous postnatal “baby blues”. This is because caring for a puppy gives rise to a variety of worries and fears, anxiety and frustration, and difficulty bonding."The study found that these so-called 'puppy blues' manifest in three ways: anxiety, frustration, and weariness. These often occur concurrently, but in some cases, one or two of the three may be particularly prominent," said psychologist and doctoral researcher Aada Ståhl.When a puppy owner is anxious, their thoughts “are colored by concerns” about the wellbeing of their pet, and how they are developing. They can also be worried that they are not adequately looking after the fragile little being. If something doesn’t pan out, the owner would often blame themselves for it. What is more, as a result of the strain and the challenges of caring for a puppy, a puppy owner might become frustrated even further. In the initial stages, they might discover that it is difficult to build an emotional bond with the puppy, which would only make everything much more difficult.All of this makes puppyhood exhausting and very taxing mentally and physically. Owners could experience a lack of sleep and increased tiredness and anxiety."Just under half of owners report having had significant negative experiences during their dog's puppyhood phase, with only about a tenth reporting the most severe levels of strain. This is in line with the prevalence of postnatal depression. However, the negative feelings fade relatively quickly," says Professor Hannes Lohi.But the study now offers a key insight – the more time that passed since puppyhood, the more positively owners remembered it. This means that the negative emotional content of these memories “fades” as time passes. All these results were collected by examining the experiences of over 100 different dog owners, all of whom experienced emotional strain after bringing a puppy home. The survey was specifically developed to measure “puppy blues”. It collected specific responses from over 2,000 dog owners, ensuring the reliability of the survey."Capturing the phenomenon in a measurable form is important if we are to better understand its characteristics, prevalence, and duration. This will also allow us to improve understanding of the factors that may predispose owners to or protect them from the 'puppy blues,' which will help us to develop prevention and support measures," added Ståhl.The study offers a crucial new glimpse into the relationship between a pet and an owner. Exploring the puppy blues phenomenon will help raise awareness and prepare future owners for the challenges of puppyhood – as there are quite a few that come together with all that cuteness.

Penalties for Harming K9 Officers Gets a Lot Tougher in Some States

Longer prison terms and stiffer fines hoped to discourage would-be shooters.

Why Is My Dog Shaking?

Shaking and shivering in dogs is something that most owners notice at least once in their dog’s lifetime. It can seem like a random thing, and in most cases, people dismiss it as a simple “side effect” of colder temperatures. However, chilly weather isn’t always the culprit for dog trembling – sometimes there are other reasons for this, ranging from expressing emotions to signaling health issues. So how are you to know what exactly is causing your dog to shake – is there a way to discern between harmless causes and those that could mean it’s time to visit a vet? Here’s everything you need to know about possible reasons for shaking in dogs and how to react when your dog starts shivering and trembling out of nowhere.Why Is My Dog Shaking?Dog behavior is a vast topic – so is their body language. If you were hoping that when a dog shakes, it means one particular thing, you’ll be disappointed. Dog shaking can communicate a range of different things and there are various possible explanations for this behavior – here are just a few of the most common ones.#1 Your Dog is ColdAs we said, cold and low temperatures can cause shivering and shaking. Just like humans, dogs may shiver when cold. If they're exposed to chilly temperatures, they might shiver to generate heat. This is a natural response. Of course, if you live in an area with a colder climate and your pet doesn’t have a thick double coat, you should get them a warm winter coat that will keep them insulated and prevent loss of body heat.

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.

Things to Consider Before Adopting an Adult Cat

While kittens are undeniably adorable, thousands of adult cats are waiting for their forever home in animal shelters and rescue organizations across the country. Adopting an adult cat offers many unique benefits and rewards – from their calmer demeanor to their already-established personalities.Before deciding on your next feline friend, I recommend taking a moment to reconsider whether an adult cat could be the right fit for your home and lifestyle. Here are a few key considerations to help you find the right cat for your family. At What Age is a Cat Considered Adult? Before discussing the benefits of adopting an adult cat, let's start at the beginning. At what age is a cat considered an adult, anyway? Like with dogs, this will depend on your cat’s breed and size. Larger breed cats like Maine Coons and Norwegian Forest Cats will take longer to reach maturity than most others. For most cat breeds, you can start referring to them as an adult around the time of their first birthday. For those larger kitties, it can take up to 2 years. If your cat is on the borderline or you’re unsure, consider asking your veterinarian during your next appointment. Understanding your cat’s life stages and growth rate will help you make many important decisions, like ensuring their diet includes everything they need in each chapter of their lives. Do Older Cats Have a Harder Time Getting Adopted? Many factors can make it more challenging for a cat to be adopted, including their color, personality, comfort with other pets, and, unfortunately, their age. When a young kitten comes into a shelter or rescue organization, they are often adopted within the first couple of months. The same can’t be said for most adult cats. There is no exact figure, but experts in the rescue space estimate that the time needed for an adult cat (aged 2-3) to be adopted is double that of their younger counterparts. That timeline continues to climb, reaching nearly 10 times as long for cats aged 9-10. 7 Reasons to Adopt an Adult Cat When considering adding a new companion to the family, whether it’s a hamster or a new puppy, you should start by doing your research. This includes assessing whether the animal of choice is a good fit for your family and lifestyle and deciding on other key factors like the right age and breed. Here are 7 reasons you may want to consider an adult cat instead of a kitten: They Are Generally Calmer There is no denying that kittens are adorable, but they are also bouncy and full of kitten energy. These active little furballs are adorable at first. However, in time, they can begin to feel like “too much” for some cat lovers. An adult cat could be a better option if you want a slightly calmer, more mature companion. That being said, there is an exception to every rule. Most adult cats are calmer and more relaxed, but many high-energy adult cats are also out there. If this is an important consideration when searching for your “right fit,” be sure to ask the shelter or rescue volunteers about the energy levels and personality of any cat you are considering. They will either have first-hand experience with the cat or will be able to connect you with someone who can answer your questions (like a foster parent). Less Supervision is Required If you have ever had to kitten-proof your home, you know how much trouble that cute little kitty can get into. They can get into everything and anything, including chewing electrical cords, scratching your furniture, and eating anything they can get their furry little paws on. Bringing a kitten home means doing a lot more preparation upfront as well as committing to the ongoing supervision they will require. Cat lovers who have a busier lifestyle or a demanding work schedule may not be able to give a kitten the time and attention they need to keep them safe and happy. Unless you work in a pet-friendly work environment where you can bring your kitten along for the day (and have done the work to kitten-proof that space, too) or have someone at home when you’re not, your lifestyle may be better suited to an older cat who can relax at home comfortably throughout the work day. Most Are Already Housetrained We often talk about the importance of potty training for puppies, but what about kittens? Not every cat is going to take to a litter box right away. Typically speaking, kittens are taught to use the litter box by their mothers early in life. However, your new kitten may not have learned this important life lesson for several reasons. It’s possible that they left their mother too early or they needed a little extra teaching to learn the basics. If a kitten hasn’t naturally learned to use the litterbox, you’ll need to train them to do their business in the right place. However, by the time they reach adulthood, someone has likely acknowledged they didn’t learn this skill from their mother and addressed it already. Their Personality is Known Anyone who says cats don’t have personalities has never shared their heart and home with a cat! I firmly believe that. We have two cats, Pippen and Jinx, with very different personalities and temperaments. While Pippen is sweet and loving, Jinx is a stereotypical tortoiseshell – sassy and spirited. You may not be feeling picky about the personality of your newest family member. However, some cat lovers are looking for a specific personality to match their lifestyle and vision of life with the new kitty. For example, if you hope to spend time snuggled up watching TV with your feline friend, an independent cat who isn’t interested in cuddles won’t be the ideal match. When kittens are young, they still haven’t “found themselves” yet. This means you are taking a gamble on their personality. Adult cats, however, are established in their personalities. What you see is what you get.

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