Dogs love chewing on a variety of things – whether it’s on a stick that they found at the park, some curtains, or your own shoes. Indeed, chewing is something every dog needs to do at all stages of life. For both puppies and adult dogs, it’s absolutely normal to chew on various objects, especially as they explore their environments. There can be different reasons why dogs chew. Puppies are basically just like human babies who chew to relieve the pain that comes with teething. On the other hand, for adult dogs, chewing is their natural way of keeping their teeth clean and their jaws strong.
Online pet shops in Singapore usually offer a variety of chew products for dogs, such as chew sticks, candies, and bone toys. Here are four of the best benefits of giving your dog something to chew regularly.
Enhancing a dog’s mental wellness
For dogs, chewing isn’t just a physical need but also an emotional necessity. According to research studies, chewing causes the release of endorphins in a dog’s brain, which are feel-good hormones that can relieve stress and anxiety. This is why the process of chewing feels so soothing and nearly euphoric for dogs that have learned or instinctively know how to chew.
Chews stimulate your dog
It’s common to see dogs become very tired after a chew session. This is mainly because chewing is an activity that demands energy and strength from your dog and requires both physical and mental concentration. As such, chewing is actually an enrichment activity your dog can do on their own, which can keep them occupied all afternoon and give you the time you need to focus on your work or other tasks.
Avoid destructive behaviours
What happens when your dog is happy and satisfied? They don’t get into much trouble, of course! Although chewing has been a totally natural and beneficial activity for dogs since time immemorial, there are numerous objects you wouldn’t want them to be chewing on in your home. You can prevent your dog from chewing on your belongings by providing them with proper chews regularly. And in time, they’ll likely learn how to differentiate between chewable things and things that aren’t.
Clean your dog’s teeth with chews
As mentioned earlier, chewing is a natural way for dogs to clean their teeth. Because chewing increases saliva production and a dog’s saliva is alkalinic, it helps neutralise acids produced by bacteria that cause cavities. Moreover, especially with suitable chew treats, plaque and tartar can also be possibly scraped off your dog’s teeth. However, for this to take effect, it’s crucial to have a good amount of chew time and the right chew texture.
Conclusion
There are various good reasons why you should encourage your dog to chew every day. However, while chewing has many incredible benefits for dogs, it can be a horrible experience if your dog accidentally swallows and chokes on chews or makes a big mess. As such, it’s equally important to provide your dog with appropriate chews that don’t just look cute but are safe and high-quality as well.
For the most reliable and excellent pet supplies and pet food online in Singapore, aPetMart is the shop you can truly count on! We’re a reputable pet mart and online pet store that offers an array of premium-quality pet products, including dry and wet food, bowls and feeders, dog pee pads and trays, cat litter boxes, beds and mats, toys, chews, and a lot more. Besides dogs and cats, we also have various great products for other pets like birds, rabbits, hamsters, and fish. Contact us today to learn more.
Singapore is known for its bustling city life, but it is also home to some of the most vibrant dog parks. Dog parks in Singapore have become a popular destination for dog owners and their furry friends to socialise and exercise. These designated areas provide a safe and controlled environment for dogs to play and interact with each other, while giving their owners the opportunity to meet and connect with other dog lovers. Here are some of the most vibrant dog parks you’ll find in Singapore:
1. K9 Park @ NEX Shopping Mall
K9 Park is the first dog park in Singapore to be located at a mall. Located on the rooftop of the mall, K9 Park is an open-air space that is perfect for dogs to play and have fun. If you’re looking to train your dog or teach them new tricks, the place provides a variety of obstacles and agility equipment for dogs to play and exercise on, such as a tunnel, teeter-totter, and ramp. These features are designed to engage and challenge dogs mentally and physically. Before heading down, It is important to note that the park is most suitable for small to medium-sized dogs due to its size.
K9 Park @ NEX Shopping Mall
Level 4R 23 Serangoon Central, Singapore 556083
Access K9 Park via designated lifts (1 and 2)
Opening Hours: 10.30am – 10.30pm
2. East Coast Park
East Coast Park is a popular destination for both locals and tourists and is an ideal place for dogs to have a great time. The park features a dog run area with beautiful sea serving as the backdrop for this fenced-in community, offering a unique view that is hard to find at other dog parks. There is also a small hill which provides an enjoyable challenge for your dogs as they run freely up and down with their furry companions. This area is open 24/7, making it convenient for dog owners to visit at any time. Plus, it’s free to use, making it an affordable option for those looking for a place for their dogs to play and run.
Dog Run @ East Coast Park
East Coast Park Service Rd (next to Carpark C1)
Opening Hours: 24 hours
3. Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park
Located in the center of Singapore, Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park is a large park that offers a variety of recreational activities for both dogs and their owners. One of the park’s standout features is the dedicated dog run area, where dogs can play off-leash and enjoy the sunshine. The dog run is divided into two sections – one for small dogs and one for large dogs – to ensure that all dogs have a safe and appropriate space to play. There are also shaded areas to take a break from the sun, as well as water stations and dog-friendly cafe to keep everyone hydrated. Overall, Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park is a great place for both dogs and their owners to have some fun and spend quality time together.
Dog Run @ Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park
Ang Mo Kio Avenue 1
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Conclusion
Dog parks are a must-visit for anyone looking to spend some quality time with their furry friends. These parks in Singapore offer a great place for dogs to socialise, play, and get some exercise to burn off excess energy, which can help prevent boredom and destructive behaviour at home such as barking all night long. It is also a great opportunity for dog owners to bond with their pets and meet other like-minded individuals, while relaxing and enjoying the beautiful surrounding. To give your pet the best possible care, visit our online pet store to purchase all the necessary supplies for a fun and enjoyable day out.
Cremation is a way to bid farewell to the loved one and offer a sense of closure to the ones in grief. The same should be said and done for our pets, who are the most dependable and devoted companions we could possibly have.
The death of our pets may always seem to be remote when we are so used to the idea of having them around. This leaves many pet parents unprepared when the tragedy becomes a reality.
To save you the trouble of fumbling for information at the last minute, we have put together everything you need to know about pet cremation in Singapore.
There are 3 types of pet cremation services to consider.
Private Cremation
Individual Cremation
Communal Cremation
Private Cremation
The pet’s remains will be returned to you in an urn after being burned up in the chamber by itself. You can watch the procedure with family and friends as well.
Individual Cremation
The pet will be cremated among other animals, but in different chambers. You won’t be able to see the process, but you will receive your pet’s remains in an urn.
Communal Cremation
Your pet will be cremated with others and you won’t get to keep your pet’s remains. All ashes will either be buried together or scattered at sea.
Private and individual cremations generally cost more as compared to communal arrangements.
Disposing of Pet’s Remains
We all know that pet parents will not have the heart to toss their pets down the rubbish chute but if you are thinking about it, did you know that it is against the National Environment Agency (NEA) Rules and Regulations as well? According to NEA, you should not bring the remains of large animals like dogs and cats to the waste-to-energy (WTE) plants for disposal but to engage the services of commercial animal crematoria instead.
If you’re a parent of a small pet such as ornamental fish, birds and hamsters, they can actually be properly bagged and disposed in your rubbish cans. According to NEA, as long as your pet’s remains are carefully wrapped and placed with other bagged general waste, they can be brought to the waste-to-energy (WTE) plants and be disposed.
Now that all of you pet parents know about what kinds of pet cremation services are available, lets move on to how are we going to choose a good pet cremation company.
How to Select a Good Pet Cremation Service Provider?
In order to select a good pet cremation company, here are some key points that pet parents should know.
1. Good Reviews and Recommendations
Positive evaluations are evidence of the company’s professionalism and credibility. Look up reviews of potential pet cremation providers online to find out what previous clients have to say.
2. 24-Hour Service Available
You should always keep the phone number of a 24-hour cremation service accessible if your pet is ill since you never know when they will leave this world. They will be able to pick up your pet whenever you need them to do so in this way.
3. Various Service Options
You should choose a company that offers the service alternatives that will fit your needs because not all cremation service providers offer all the 3 types of cremation services mentioned above.
Additionally, you can also see if they offer extra services like sea scatter services and columbarium storage.
4. Right Storage and Transportation
Ask a pet cremation company about their transportation policies before hiring them. As an alternative, you can consult online forums for pet owners and inquire about past users’ opinions.
Select a service provider that can transport your pet safely. Your pet should be delivered safely to the crematorium in a pet body bag that has been appropriately tagged with a tag.
They should then be kept secure until their cremation. Their bodies should be handled gently by the cremation service and kept in a thermal room for preservation.
5. Pet Identification After Cremation
You, as a pet parent, would want to be able to identify your deceased pet’s ashes after cremation. Additional steps should be taken by the pet cremation company to ensure this.
When pet cremation services take your pet from your home or the veterinarian, they typically affix an identification tag to them. Ask the service how they plan to verify the identity of the pet.
What Can I Do After Pet Cremation?
Apart from bringing home the ashes in an urn, there are a few other options that you can go with after receiving your pet’s ashes.
1. Keeping the ashes in an urn at the columbarium
One way of storing your pet’s ashes is by leaving it at the columbarium where your pet will be under the companion of other furry friends on their journey to the Rainbow Bridge.
2. Scatter ashes into the sea
Another way to send off your pet when the cremated remains are returned to nature is to scatter their ashes into the sea. Scattering your pet’s ashes into the sea is a natural way to return them into the ecosystem. Some cremation service providers are able to arrange for sea scattering of the ashes.
3. Convert ashes into jewelry, keychain or art
Regarding pet cremation jewelry, there are numerous possibilities. You can make some of their cremated remains into a stunning necklace, bracelet, or even a diamond or other gemstone. This is a lovely choice that you may wear with pride to honor your pet.
Conclusion
It can be challenging to consider death, much less the passing of our beloved pets. While being apart is hard, the good memories of the time we have spent with our pets are what to be cherished. The experience of losing a loved one and the thought that one day we will reunite may make it easier for us to cope with the inevitable part of nature better.
aPetMart is proud to support Tito’s Vodka charity for dogs by collaborating with Destination Beverage! Use our code “TITOS_05” to purchase Tito’s Vodka at Destination Beverage (164 East Coast Road) or on their online website. For EVERY bottle of Tito’s Vodka purchased, Tito’s Vodka will buy $15 worth of pet supply and donate it to SPCA. Buy your Tito’s Vodka and contribute to a charity for dogs.
At aPetMart, we value the lives of animals and we are committed to improving the lives of our furry friends. We are beyond delighted to contribute to this inspiring cause.
Tito’s Vodka
Tito’s Vodka is a Texas-found vodka brand specializing in using yellow corn, rather than potatoes or wheat to create its beverages. However what is more important to us is their vision, for their “Vodka for Dog People” program. It looks to improve the lives of pets and their families, which is exactly in line with our vision as well.
It’s a universally acknowledged fact that children love pets. If you’re a parent, you’re probably used to your kids pleading with you to adopt a dog, buy them a hamster or other similar request by now. After all, the bond between a child and their pet is unique and inimitable. Animals are capable of unconditional love and will never judge you – something children often crave.
Research has shown that becoming a pet caretaker can be of great benefit to your kids in several ways. Pets are great for relieving stress and often provide helpful practice for the development of their emotional and social skills. They are invaluable companions who can enhance moods and offer critical social support when your child needs it.
However, given the amount of responsibility caring for a pet requires, it’s only right that parents do their due diligence before giving in. Here are some of the major benefits of having a family pet:
1. Alleviates stress
Growing up is a stressful time filled with academic hurdles, social confusion, and an untold amount of pressure in every other aspect of their life. It’s safe to say that children and teenagers take on a lot in their daily lives. Fortunately, pets are such great stress relievers. They offer uncomplicated companionship in a world that is often difficult to navigate for young people. Taking care of a pet can also be a good distraction and comfort to them.
2. Decreases likelihood of developing allergies
Studies show that kids who grow up around pets are more likely to develop a robust immune system against asthma and allergies. Children with pets often fight off colds and cases of flu better than their peers and, as a result, are healthier and more active individuals.
3. Enhances their sense of empathy
Pets are utterly reliant on their humans to care for them. They generally can’t feed or groom themselves and even need help for recreational activities.
Because of this, children who are pet caretakers are encouraged to care for someone other than themselves early on. They learn to think and feel from someone else’s point of view, which sparks a deep-rooted sense of compassion in them.
They instinctively start to realise when their pet may be uncomfortable or feeling lonely. Having pets will make them want to ensure their pet is safe and happy at all times – a significant first step in their emotional and social development.
4. Allows them to learn easier
Pets are also highly effective academic crutches for kids. Animals have always been used as aids in learning in schools and have proven to be helpful for children who are unable to keep up with the rest of the class. This is especially the case with children who struggle to read. These kids often better themselves at this by practising reading aloud in front of their pets to gain the confidence they need.
Conclusion
While your children lobbying for pets may seem like a frivolous request to you, there are actually plenty of sound reasons why getting one could be a massive help to you and your family. Pets are unconditional friends for your children in uncertain times and provide unparalleled support and aid in their development. Most importantly, they become invaluable members of your family. If you are considering getting a pet, aPetMart is the source of all your online pet supplies in Singapore. With our vast collection of high-quality pet-related essentials, you’ll find everything you’ll ever need with us and more! Contact us today to learn more.
While dogs are indeed man’s best friend, it may take some time for this relationship to develop. When you become a caretaker of a new puppy, you are establishing a new relationship and assuming significant responsibility for it. As such, becoming best friends with your dog, while an enjoyable process, also takes persistence, consistency, and discipline. Fortunately, it only makes the reward of this endeavour – a lifelong companion – even sweeter. Read on for some strategies to aid your puppy in adjusting to its new home and making this transition as seamless as possible.
1. Patience is key
Forging a new relationship often takes time and patience – establishing a bond with your dog is no exception. The length of this process depends on the pup. For some, it can happen over the course of a day and for others, it can take months.
Every dog has a unique disposition; some are more adaptable and open than others. Just like people, dogs need time to adjust to any new situation. Before jumping into the bonding process, we must highlight the importance of patience.
If your puppy is hesitant to bond with you, remember that it’s not anyone’s fault. They’re simply taking in their environment. Since the first few days are bound to be more chaotic, try and keep things as peaceful and positive as possible so that your dog can get comfortable.
You might want to immediately do all the activities you’ve been dying to do with your pup. However, do consider their feelings and behaviour before taking those steps. Does your dog seem anxious or withdrawn? Give them time to adjust so they won’t get overwhelmed by the new sights and sounds.
2. Ready their new home
Before you welcome your dog into its new home, you need to make sure it looks like there’s a designated space for them. Stock your place with all the pet-related essentials like toys, food, treats, and the like. You can browse our store for all of these and more for quick and reliable purchases.
It’s also essential that your house is “puppy-proofed”. This means ensuring that nothing in your home can cause harm to a dog. Ensure everything electrical is secured and inaccessible, and the necessary doors and drawers are locked away. Remember that they’re essentially babies who can’t help themselves, and it’s up to you to keep them safe.
3. Create a schedule and stick to it
Your new dog will constantly try to adapt and find a place in your home. Creating a schedule for them will make this process much more manageable.
A set routine is the best way to rein in your puppy and give them some structure. It helps them get potty trained faster, eat at healthy intervals, stabilise good behaviour, and bond with you in a less confusing environment. With a schedule, your dog is somewhat aware of what will happen next and can thus prepare themselves better. They also grow more confident when they can be sure that their needs will be met.
When creating a schedule, remember that it should chiefly consist of their training, potty breaks, playtime, meals, and nap time. You can even align their routine with your own, so your dog feels like they’re doing everything with you.
4. Playtime!
The most enjoyable aspect of bonding with your dog is engaging in playtime. Again, some dogs will immediately be ready to play with you upon coming home. Other times, your new pup will have to be cajoled. It’s important to remember that playtime cannot be forced. If they seem hesitant, you can try again some other time when they’re less overwhelmed.
If you want to play a game of fetch with your dog, you can try rolling a toy around in front of them to gauge their excitement about running after it. If they’re confused, you can demonstrate how to play by chasing after it yourself, and they’ll follow your lead. Other games you can play with your dog include frisbee, hiding treats around the house, tug-of-war, and more.
Conclusion
A dog is a notably loyal animal whose favourite place tends to be by your side. Don’t worry if this bond isn’t immediately evident. It will develop as long as you have the patience to see it through. In the meantime, follow the tips listed above and embark on this invaluable relationship with your new puppy.
Find all your dog supplies, such as dog pee pads, toys, and treats, with us at aPetMart, Singapore’s premier retailer of pet essentials. Contact us today to learn more.
Hamsters are adorable little rodents. It’s a heartwarming sight to see the way they eat their food, run on their hamster wheel and behave in general. They are perfect for people who prefer having a pet that does not take up too much space in their homes. However, many make the mistake of adopting a hamster that may not be compatible with their needs.
Hence it is important to know the types of hamster breeds that exist, and whether they are suited to live with you.
Syrian Hamsters
Syrian hamsters, also known as golden hamsters, can be fantastic companions. They are fairly low-maintenance and easy to tame, making it a suitable breed for first time pet owners.
They have an average lifespan between 2 to 3 years. Their size is usually between 15 to 17cm
Coat Coloring & Features
While their main coat color is Golden, these hamsters tend to have variations:
Yellow
Cinnamon
Grey
Black
Cream
Mink
Sable
Their features include:
Golden brown with a lighter belly
Stubby tail, small eyes and cheek pouches
Some has long coat
Dietary Requirements
Their diet should include:
Commercial hamster mixes
Small pieces of fresh vegetables and fruits, such as:
Apples
Pears
Broccoli
Cauliflower
Carrots
Occasional treats like nuts, grains, seeds, mealworms
Facts About Syrian Hamsters
Syrian hamsters are territorial mammals and will start fighting other hamsters by the time they mature. they may not be the right hamster for you to adopt if you are considering having more than 1 hamster or other animals in your home.
They are nocturnal animals which are very active at night.
They are not naturally prey animals, so loud noises, sharp movements and touch may startle them.
Long-haired variants require grooming at least once a day. Ensure that you have enough time to dedicate to brushing their fur.
Winter White Hamsters
Winter white hamsters are small hamster species with a social personality. Due to their small size and speed, they can be difficult to hold. However, because they are sociable and can be easily tamed, they are suitable for hamster owners of every experience level.
Winter White hamsters have a lifespan of 1.5 to 2 years, and their size is from 7 to 10cm.
Coat Coloring & Features
The coat of winter white hamsters is actually grayish-brown for most of the year. However, it changes to white during the winter . The purpose of its coat changing to white is because it acts as a camouflage in the snow to protect themselves from predators. Do note that keeping them in captivity does not guarantee the coat color change as they aren’t exposed to the winter light.
Their features include:
A wide black dorsal stripe along their backs
Small ears, furry feet and a round face
Dietary Requirements
Their diet should include:
Keep it balanced
You can feed them a combination of:
Fruits
Vegetables
Seeds
Nuts
Insects
Hamster Mixes
Facts About Winter White Hamsters
They are half the size of the Syrian hamster
They are also known as Russian Dwarf Hamsters
They can be kept in small groups or same-sex as they are sociable. However, if they start fighting due to their territorial behavior as adults, then it is best to seperate them.
Campbell Hamsters
Campbell Hamsters are the most common hamsters that you can find. Due to their popularity, it has led to breeders all around the world to produce different colors and variants of the breed. Currently, there are over 40 different coat colorations.
They are generally low-maintenance and quiet. Hence, it is suitable even for beginners to care for.
Their lifespan is about 1.5 to 2 years old. They are usually about 10cm in size.
Coat Coloring & Features
Campbell hamsters tend to come in these color coats:
Grey (normal)
Cinnamon
Sandy
White (albino)
Their features include:
A thin dorsal stripe on back
Light grey fur on stomach
Large and upright ears
Long and thin face
Dietary Requirements
Their diet should include:
High protein content
Minimal fruits The reason for this is because Campbell hamsters are more prone to developing diabetes. Hence, we should minimize sugar intake as much as possible.
Facts About Campbell Hamsters
The name originated in Mongolia, 1992 by a man named W.C. Campbell.
They are nocturnal animals, similar to Syrian Hamsters
Campbell hamsters are more prone to develop diabetes. As a result, minimize sugar intake levels when feeding this breed.
They have extremely poor eyesight and even worse depth perception. To combat this, they have many scent glands located on the face, behind the ears, on the cheek pouches, near the rectum and genitals.
The hamster may groom itself when in an unfamiliar location to create a trail to allow them to reburn back to their burrow.
This is usually done by scenting the feet.
These scent trails may last up to 8 days.
Roborovski Hamsters
Roborovski hamsters are often regarded as the cutest and smallest hamsters out of all the species. They are very playful, curious and will try out anything. Despite being extremely shy, they can be sociable, so it is fine to keep them in groups, compared to solitary breeds like the Syrian hamsters.
However, due to their difficulty in handling, you should only adopt them if you are an experienced pet owner.
Their lifespan tends to be 3 to years, with some having gone higher than that . Their size measures at 5 to 7cm.
Coat Coloring & Features
These hamsters come in a range of colors, including:
Sand-colored (Common)
Agouti
Cinnamon
Cream
Husky
Head spot
Black-eyed white
Mottled
Dominant spot
Features include:
White fur around nose, base of ears, belly, tail and legs
Do not have dorsal stripes
Dietary Requirements
Feed a tablespoon of hamster mix and small amounts of fresh food daily. This is because they have very fast metabolisms.
Facts About Roborovski Hamsters
They ar eless prone to illnesses and injuries compared to Syrian, Chinese and Winter White hamsters. Despite that, they may still be prone to:
Broken bones
Allergies
Mites or ticks
Overgrown claws and teeth
Provide them with a lot of toys as they are very active
They tend to be active during the night and early morning
They have longer lifespans compared to other hamster breeds
Keep them away from children as the hamster is very fragile, and can resort to biting when provoked.
Chinese Hamster
These hamsters come from the deserts of China and Mongolia. They are very friendly and don’t nip frequently. However, you should provide them with a lot of attention to prevent behavioral problems as they rely on interaction.
These hamsters have a lifespan of 2.5 to 3 years with a size of 8.2 to 13cm.
Coat Coloring & Features
They tend to have a brown coat with thin black dorsal stripes along their backs. Their fur color is white on their stomach.
Their features include:
Round, upright ears
Pointed nose
Dietary Requirements
Chinese hamsters will benefit from:
Hamster food
Fruits and Vegetables
Nuts
Grains
Seeds
Insects
Facts About Chinese Hamsters
Provide them with constant attention to keep them satisfied. This is to prevent them from provoking unnecessary behavior such as chewing on objects. You can try using small animal toys to keep them entertained.
They’re often mistaken as mice due to their pointed nose and noticeable tail. They have an uncommonly long tail compared to other hamsters.
They have an uncommonly long tail compared to other hamsters.
To tell the difference between a mouse and a Chinese hamster:
Look at the tail of the animal. Mices have tails as long as their body, which can go up to inches long.
Another way to tell is that hamsters in general are nocturnal animals, while mices can choose to stay active throughout the day.
This breed is territorial, so keep them away from other household pets or hamsters.
Hybrid Dwarf Hamsters
Hybrid Dwarf Hamsters were created as a result of crossbreeding. They may be harder to take care of, as crossbreeding may lead to potential health issues such as diabetes, a common disease in Campbell Hamsters. They are also known to develop neurological and behavior problems. For instance, the hamster may show aggression and start biting. Due to their aggressive nature, this often leads to them being neglected, abandoned or euthanized.
In addition, they may also have a shorter lifespan of less than 2 years. Hence, adopting Hybrid Dwarf Hamsters is only recommended if you are a very experienced and patient pet owner willing to constantly show care for them.
Coat Coloring & Features
The Hybrid Dwarf hamsters may shar the same coat coloring as Winter White or Campbell hamsters as they were cross-bred. However, crossbreeders have managed to obtain new color mutations.
These color mutations are:
Tangerine
Mushroom
Orange
Brown
Moscow
These colors are banned from shows and competitions, as they are not considered as “purebred”.
Dietary Requirements
Hybrid Dwarf hamsters may follow the typical diet of other hamster breeds. However, keep in mind to minimize the sugar intake since it is inheriting the trais of a Campbell hamster, which is more prone to developing diabetes.
Facts About Hybrid Dwarf Hamsters
The crossbreeds involved in the creation of these hamsters are the Winter White and Campbell hamsters.
Their chances of inheriting diseases from their parent breed is very likely. For example, they may develop diabetes as their parent Campbell hamsters have a history of such disease.
Understanding the Breed’s Differences
Each hamster breed has their own fair share of differences. Their behavior may also vary depending on their age and environment. However, this is not something to fear! As long as you have familiarized yourself with how you can take care of your hamster, there shouldn’t be any issues too severe to be handled.
We hope this blog serves you well in determining the kind of hamster that you would like to adopt. If you already have adopted one, we hope that you have learned something regarding your hamster’s breed. Considering adopting a hamster or any pets in general? Feel free to give this blog post a read!
Having a pet can be one of the most enjoyable and fulfilling responsibilities you will ever have, especially if you’re an animal lover. However, being responsible for the behaviour of your beloved furry companion is a full-time job that sometimes even extends to the night. This is especially true if you have a dog that loves to bark while you are trying to get your much-needed sleep.
While some dogs tend to be naturally yappy, this can cause problems with your neighbours and family members, so it’s essential that you solve your dog’s barking issue as soon as possible. To help you, here are four of the most effective tips on how to stop an active dog from barking all night long.
1. Keep your dog busy with toys
Boredom is one of the most common reasons behind a dog’s excessive barking at night. It may be possible that your dog has too much energy stored and ends up being active by barking. To stop your dog from barking out of boredom, it is best to provide a selection of stimulating toys that will keep your pet occupied throughout the night.
Plush toys and chew bones, in particular, can keep your canine pal busy for hours, so it is highly recommended that you keep a bunch of these energising toys around your dog’s bed to keep them entertained. However, when choosing which toys to give your dog at night, avoid the loud squeaky ones as they can further disrupt your sleep. Moreover, buying dog toys from a reliable store is vital to avoid choking risks and other injuries.
2. Provide a new resting spot
Another possible reason your dog is loud and distressed at night is that it is not 100% comfortable on the bed it is supposed to sleep on. Just like humans, dogs can also be picky about their sleep accommodations. It would thus be wise to invest in a new, soft, and comfortable resting spot to give your dog the shuteye it deserves. With a comfortable resting place, your dog will surely feel much calmer and more relaxed at night!
3. Take your dog for an evening walk
Besides boredom and discomfort, night barking can also indicate that your dog is not getting adequate exercise during the day. Dogs usually have plenty of energy that needs to be released, and exercising is the most excellent way to do this. Not getting enough exercise during the day could make your dog restless and bark excessively at night.
If you think that your dog’s excessive night barking is a cry for some fresh air and exercise, then taking it for an outside walk in the evening should help eliminate the problem. Give your pooch plenty of time to run around and play with you or other dogs. This way, it can release all its pent-up energy and tire itself out, thereby reducing the chances of it barking while you sleep.
4. Try command training
Certain commands, such as “quiet” and “go to your place,” can help stop your dog from barking excessively at night. This can be achieved by rewarding your dog with a treat every time it listens to your command. For example, whenever your dog begins barking, you should say “quiet” multiple times until it does exactly what you want.
Once your dog stops barking, it’s time you give it a treat and lots of praise. Similarly, if you want your dog to learn how to go to bed on its own, you should teach what “go to your place” means and reward it consistently. Being consistent with this command training will certainly teach your dog what you mean every time you give out a certain command.
Conclusion
Overall, there are various possible reasons why your dog loves or feels the need to bark at night. Addressing your dog’s night barking problem requires you to know its causes and the effective ways to eliminate them. If you think boredom, discomfort, or lack of exercise or training is the reason behind your dog’s excessive barking at night, following the tips in this article can help you solve the issue.
If you are looking for the most excellent and reliable pet products for all of your dog’s needs, including premium pet food brands such as Wellness dog food,
Absolute Bites, Taste of the Wild and many more, aPetMart is the shop you can trust! We are a renowned pet mart and online pet store that offers superior quality toys, accessories, and cleaning and healthcare products in Singapore. Aside from dogs, we also have a variety of products for other pets like cats, rabbits, hamsters, birds, and fish. Do not hesitate to contact us anytime to learn more about our offers.
Compared to humans, most cat breeds do not require regular baths. This is mainly due to the fact that cats are excellent groomers. Their rough tongues are covered with tiny barbs called “papillae” that send saliva across their fur. Every lap of their tongue transfers healthy natural oils across their skin and coat. Hence, when cats lick their fur, they’re actually cleaning themselves.
Even though they do not usually require baths, there are some exceptional circumstances when your cat would need proper bathing. If your cat has rolled in something that it cannot wash, or if it has long hair that has become matted, giving it a thorough bath might be a good idea. However, bathing cats can be challenging since most dislike baths. To help you, here is a quick guide on how you can give your cat a lovely and comfortable bath.
Essential Items You Need On Hand
Preparing everything you need on hand before the bath begins is vital to ensure that it goes smoothly and faster. Additionally, this helps to prevent the unpleasant situation of desperately calling out for a towel while keeping your feline still and calm. What’s great is that these cleaning items can often be found easily in many pet stores.
Here are some of the essential things you need for the bath:
A tub or pitcher for rinsing
Shampoo made particularly for cats
Rubber gloves to avoid scratches
Cotton balls for cleaning your cat’s ears
A soft cloth for washing your cat’s face
A large towel for drying your cat off
6 Simple Steps in Bathing Your Cat
1. Prepare your cat
As mentioned earlier, most cats do not like bathing, so it is highly recommended that you first get your cat used to being in the tub before doing so. Try putting it in without water and give it a couple of treats. If possible, do this multiple times in a day before you proceed to bathe your cat.
2. Place your cat in the water
If you think your cat has already become accustomed to being in the tub, fill it with a few inches of lukewarm water and slowly place your cat inside. Keep your cat as calm as possible by talking gently to it and praising it for not misbehaving.
3. Wet your cat
One of the first things you should do when bathing your cat is gently wet its body and tail. As most cats do not like getting water on their faces, it is best to avoid upsetting your soaked feline by wetting its face immediately.
4. Shampoo and rinse
Shampooing will help clean your cat thoroughly and maintain the quality of its skin and coat. However, choosing a shampoo made specifically for cats is necessary to avoid irritating your cat’s skin. Add the shampoo, lather, and rinse your feline. As much as possible, avoid leaving any shampoo residue behind, as it can also cause irritation.
5. Clean the face
When cleaning your cat’s whiskered face, it is advisable to use only a soft cloth because, as mentioned earlier, cats do not usually like getting their face wet. You can also clean the outside of your cat’s ears using a cotton ball. Avoid using a Q-tip or any other tool to clean the inside of its ears, as this can result in injury.
6. Dry with a towel
After everything is done, carefully wrap the large towel around your pet and lift it out of the tub. Drying off your cat with a towel is essential to avoid making it feel uncomfortable or cold. Usually, cats and hair dryers do not make a good pair, but if you have a longhaired breed, you can try using one to dry it off.
Conclusion
Bathing a cat is not a walk in the park, especially since these felines are known for disliking baths. Nonetheless, if you follow the tips shared in this article, their bath sessions will surely go a lot easier and smoother. If you still quiver at the thought of bathing your cat despite all these tips, you can always seek a professional groomer’s assistance to ensure your cat gets thoroughly and comfortably cleaned.
If you are in need of quality and reliable cat cleaning products, aPetMart is the shop you can count on! We are a reputable pet retailer that offers a wide array of online pet supplies in Singapore, ranging from food products and cleaning items to toys and accessories. Contact us today to learn more about our offers.
Everywhere in the world, hundreds and thousands of stray dogs can be seen roaming the streets. These dogs are known by names, such as mutts, mongrels, aspin, or mixed breeds. In Singapore, you can adopt one of these street dogs, which are affectionately known as “Singapore Specials.” The term refers to those dogs that have been bred in the streets of Singapore without purpose or intentionality and through a mix of breeds.
Singapore Specials are usually affectionate, adaptable, and intelligent. Despite being typically large, these wonderful dogs are HDB-approved, which means that HDB owners can own them even if they are as big as 50 centimetres, provided that there are appropriate ownership conditions. If you plan to adopt Singapore Specials soon, this article is perfect for you! Here is everything you need to know about taking care of Singapore Specials:
The Recommended Diet for Singapore Specials
The way to a person’s heart is through their stomach. The same thing is true when it comes to dogs. Feeding your Singapore Special regularly to keep them satisfied and ensure their optimal health is essential. Like humans, dogs also need a healthy and balanced diet to be physically active and well. To gain excellent nutrition, the diet of your Singapore Special should include the following:
Protein found in fish, chicken, pork, and beef
Vegetables
Fat
Carbohydrates
The proper portioning of the food will vary depending on your dog’s age, size, activeness, and distinct dietary needs.
Their Need for Exercise
Since they have spent most of their time roaming the streets of Singapore before, rehomed Singapore Specials certainly need their exercise fix. Simple but well-rounded activities like walking, running, hiking, and even agility training， are very much recommended. Be sure to take your dog out on a walk for at least 30 minutes every day.
To upgrade your dog’s exercise regime or introduce it to new environments from time to time, you can bring your Singapore Special to play at dog parks or to the beach so that it can have a refreshing swim. For any concerns regarding the physical conditions of your dog, you can always check with the adoption centre for more information.
How They Should Be Groomed
Regardless of the length of its fur, your Singapore Special must undergo basic grooming from time to time to maintain its health and the shiny quality of its coats. According to specialists, a Singapore Special should be sent to a professional groomer at least four times yearly. Here are the essential grooming processes it should go through:
1. Bathing
A Singapore Special needs to be bathed at least once a month. When bathing your dog, you should use only lukewarm water and a dog shampoo suitable for its coat, age, and other specific needs. After bathing and thoroughly rinsing your dog, dry it off with either a blow dryer or a soft towel.
2. Coat Brushing
Coat brushing is usually done once every week. The brushing frequency varies based on the length of your dog’s coat. If your Singapore Special has a long fur, you should brush it more frequently to eliminate its loose furs and prevent tangles or matting.
3. Nail Clipping
Like human nails, the claws of dogs grow constantly. If these claws get too long, it can harm them. Therefore, it is vital to trim the nails of your Singapore Special at least once every 3 or 4 weeks. The rule of thumb here is that your dog’s claws must be trimmed enough to avoid having them touch the ground when standing up straight.
Conclusion
With their affectionate and adaptable characteristics, Singapore Specials are undoubtedly among the best kinds of dogs you can adopt. While this unique breed is not usually high-maintenance, they still require adequate care to become more active and healthier. If you want your Singapore Special to be well and lively, you must ensure that it has a nutritious diet, regular exercise, and proper grooming.
If you are looking for the most comprehensive and reliable store for online pet supplies in Singapore, aPetMart is the one you can trust! We offer a wide range of high-quality products for your pet’s needs, including pet food, pee pads, toys, accessories, and much more. If you specifically own a dog, no matter what breed, our great selection of dog items will surely delight you and your pet! For more information about our products, feel free to head to our website or contact us anytime.
A cloudy fish tank can be quite an alarming sight for fish keepers. Most of them go to great lengths just to maintain their ‘aquariums’ cleanliness and stable water conditions. So, when the once clean and clear water begins to appear discoloured and murky, it can be cause for panic. However, before you get too anxious about the situation, it is first essential to understand what is really going on.
There is no single cause for a cloudy fish tank; several possible factors can affect the quality of the water in your aquarium. If you are experiencing this problem right now, you’re on the right page! Read on for some of the most common causes behind cloudy aquariums and how they can be fixed.
1. Algae Problems
If you’ve operated an aquarium for a while now, you are likely already aware of algae issues. These plant-like organisms build up on the sides of your fish tank and your decorations. If left unchecked, algae can turn your aquarium into a green mess since the algae bloom usually appears in a greenish hue.
Algae grow on the same things that plants are fond of – sunlight and food in the form of nitrogen. If you have an issue with algae blooms in your fish tank, it might be because of one of the following factors:
A sudden increase in nitrogen, especially due to excessive fish waste or feeding, may result in the sudden growth of algae. This abrupt algae increase can disturb your fish tank’s balance and adversely affect your fish.
If excessive nitrogen is not the cause, then perhaps your tank placement is to blame. A fish tank that is hit by direct sunlight tends to provide algae with additional energy to keep growing. Like plants, algae can thrive with enough food and sunlight. Hence, to avoid algae problems in your fish tank, make sure to deprive them of their food source by performing a water change regularly and placing your tank in an area that is not directly hit by sunlight.
2. Bacterial Bloom
Bacterial bloom is one of the most common reasons your fish tank is cloudy. A bacterial bloom often has a milky haze-like appearance. It usually results from fish waste and decaying food that provide an abundant source of nutrients for bacterial growth.
Bacteria in your aquarium is not inherently harmful since it is necessary to maintain healthy water conditions and break down waste. However, when the bacterial colonies in your fish tank become excessive and can no longer get the job done, this is when the quality of the water suffers.
Most of the time, a bacterial bloom occurs when a new fish tank has not been adequately cycled or when a significant change in water and aquarium cleaning leads to a mini-cycle as the bacterial colonies in your aquarium undergo a re-population stage.
To prevent unhealthy bacterial blooms in your fish tank, conducting a partial water change is crucial. If your aquarium is relatively new, perhaps you simply need a little more time for your fish tank to balance itself out.
3. Overstocking
Overstocked aquariums have numerous issues. Besides behaviour clashes and stress on the fish, the conditions in an overstocked aquarium can eventually decline until it becomes a toxic environment and lead to the cloudy tank water. To understand the issue, you should consider your aquarium a small ecosystem like a little lake. It has microorganisms that aid in breaking down waste, and the filter systems serve as the springs and streams that aerate the water and cleanse the lake.
Just like a lake that can only support a limited amount of life, the same is true of your aquarium. However, since your aquarium is a closed ecosystem that has no fresh water coming in, it cannot regain its balance without your intervention once things become unstable.
To prevent this, you should keep the stock down to a level the aquarium can maintain. This includes conducting a water change and vacuuming the gravel to get things back to normal. At the same time, you should look for a way to re-home some of the new fishes in your tank.
Conclusion
There could be several possible reasons why your fish tank appears cloudy. Nonetheless, everything ultimately boils down to ensuring that your tank is properly cleaned and well-maintained regularly. To ensure that you have the ability to fix your fish tank when the need arises, you should invest in premium-quality water treatment and cleaning tools from a trusted pet supply store in Singapore.
For the best and most reliable aquarium products and pet supplies, aPetMart is the shop you can count on! We offer a variety of products for different kinds of pets, including dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, hamsters, and fish. For more information about our products, feel free to contact us today.
Bad breath in dogs may seem inevitable, but when your furry companion suffers from it, the urgency to solve it tends to set in. It’s a good thing that this problem comes with multiple solutions. Vets almost universally agree that the best way to prevent bad breath in your dogs is to ensure that you maintain their dental health. Yearly check-ups, proper brushing, good chew toys, and feeding them with appropriate dry food is all essential when it comes to preventing bad breath.
But what if your dog already has bad breath? Here are a few more tips you can utilise to turn this situation around:
1. Brush their teeth well
Like humans, dogs require constant and vigilant tooth brushing. Twice a day for at least 30 seconds each time, to be specific. It’s also important to use specialised dog toothpaste for it to be considered safe. There are plenty of high-quality toothpaste available on the market today. aPetMart carries multiple safe and credible brands in our stock for you to choose from.
2. Strategically utilise chew toys
You can find many chew toys that discreetly allow you to hide cleaning agents or toothpaste in them. With this, their breath improves exponentially every time your dog plays with it. That’s what you call functionality!
3. Go see a vet
Research shows that most pets will have contracted a dental disease by age three. If your dog exhibits signs of inflammation, you might want to bring them to a vet to get it checked. In fact, it’s recommended that your dog visits a vet annually.
4. Try yoghurt
Surprisingly, yoghurt is an excellent home remedy for rancid breath. It’s important that the yoghurt you give them is plain and doesn’t contain sugar substitutes or any fruits, as some of them can be fatal to dogs. Ensure your dogs are not lactose intolerant before giving them 1-2 teaspoons of yoghurt.
5. Give them some herbs
Certain herbs like parsley and dill can be beneficial for cleaning up dog breath. They kill off bacteria and are nature’s breath fresheners.
6. Research dental sealants
Some dogs are especially prone to dental decay. As such, it’s essential to look for suitable dental sealants. They do a great job at keeping their teeth and gums spick and span, helping to ensure decay and plaque build-up are stalled.
7. Let them drink tea
Bad breath in dogs can often occur due to indigestion issues or stomach problems. Like people, dogs find tea helpful in easing this type of problem. Ginger tea is the go-to tea solution for indigestion. Just add two slices of ginger to some hot water. Remember to let the temperature go down before your dog drinks a few teaspoons.
Conclusion
Bad breath in dogs is often a minor issue that can be easily remedied by following the tips mentioned above and buying the necessary dog accessories. aPetMart is the premiere destination for all your pet supplies needs. Other than accessories, we also offer a variety of premium pet food brands, including Wellness dog treats. Find exactly what you need amid our vast range of pet essentials. Contact us today to learn more!
The number one question kids start to ask their parents once they reach a certain age is whether they can get a pet. Parents often give in with the caveat that they’ll only buy their children what they assume would be a low-maintenance pet. More often than not, the chosen pet is a hamster.
Hamsters are the go-to first pet for most people because they’re relatively easy to take care of, affordable, and adorable! But that doesn’t mean that they don’t require thorough care or they don’t come with their share of challenges. Since they’re such small creatures, you must handle them gently, or they might retaliate by biting! As such, younger children will almost certainly have issues with them as they’re not fully in control of their faculties yet. There are other things parents should note before getting their child a hamster as a starter pet. Here are just some of them:
They require a lot of exercise
Animals are generally not used to captivity – and hamsters are no exception. Hamsters may be tiny, but they still require exercise. They need to do so to receive their share of freedom and for them to maintain their health and well-being. You can do so by installing an appropriately sized hamster wheel in their cage. You can even let them roam free outside their enclosures for a few minutes, as long as you carefully watch them. It’s also vital to ensure their cage is big enough for them to run about as much as they please.
They are nocturnal animals
Not many people are aware of the fact that hamsters are nocturnal. That means they sleep most of the day and are only active at night. If you’re worried about your hamster seeming too sedate, keep in mind that they’re simply tired from their night-time exploits.
Male and females should not be kept together
Male and female hamsters should not be housed together, or there would be disastrous consequences. There are absolutely no exceptions to this rule. Hamsters tend to breed at unbelievable speeds. Once the babies are born, the father will likely attempt to attack his young. The mother will then retaliate in kind to protect her children. Not the sort of thing you want to expose your child to. If you have purchased two hamsters of the opposite sex, remember to keep them in separate cages.
They’re sensitive to loud noises
Hamsters are animals that mainly utilise their hearing and sense of smell to get around. That’s why loud noises like shouting, vacuuming, or banging can scare them. When deciding where to place them, consider the quiet areas of your house. If your children are particularly loud, you may want to reconsider your decision to get a hamster.
Conclusion
Hamsters may seem like low-maintenance pets, but that doesn’t mean no maintenance is necessary. If you’re thinking of getting one, ensure you’ve put enough thought into the idea. Remember, hamsters are still beings with feelings and, when given the right amount of care, can make great friends with you and your little ones. Just ensure that they’re well taken care of!
And for all your hamster-related essentials, visit us at aPetMart. We are the one-stop shop for all your online pet supplies in Singapore. Contact us today to learn more about our well-curated and quality stock.
Love cats? Can’t get enough of cafés? Well then, you’re in luck. Singapore is a haven of cat cafés suited for cat lovers of all persuasions.
People love their pets on our sunny little island. We have dog cafés, pet-friendly restaurants, pet hotels, and a variety of other establishments for our furry companions to enjoy. However, perhaps the most popular iteration of this is the cat café. It’s a place where people can freely sit back, relax, and enjoy some adorable feline company.
With the abundance of options available, how would you know where to start? Well, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a list of some of the best cat cafés in the country!
1. The Cat Café
The Cat Café has two branches you won’t be able to get enough of. Bugis space houses 15 wonderful cats for you to befriend, while the Rail Mall outlet has 14 of them. The best part? All the cats are adopted or strays! Visit these cats at their new home and see them for yourselves. And while you’re there, give their delicious desserts a try!
2. Cats Safari
Cats Safari Singapore is a unique one on this list. It isn’t just a cat café; it’s also a cat therapy centre. If you’re a caretaker for your very own feline friend, you can bring them over for a bit of cat therapy. If you don’t have one, you can still go and hang out with all the other cats and relax with them.
3. The Company of Cats
What was once just a place for cats to commune and hang out has become a full-fledged cat café. The Company of Cats is now filled with books and a variety of delectable dishes for you to enjoy while you bask in, well, the company of cats! With a grand total of 11 rescued felines, you can take the time to get to know each of these individual personalities properly.
4. Catopia Café
Finally, we’ll end with the ambitious Catopia Café. Once an illustrious boarding house for cats, now this café is a safe haven for cats and people alike. People looking to relax and unwind can find a safe space in this 2-storey shophouse filled with 22 cats of various breeds. What’s more, if you find yourself craving companionship, they hold weekly adoption drives so you can make one of these cats your own.
Conclusion
Cat cafés may be becoming a dime a dozen in Singapore, but they’re some of the best places for people to unwind and befriend a few furry companions. So make your way down to explore the cat cafés in Singapore and enjoy an unparalleled you’ll keep going back to.
If you already have a friend of the feline persuasion at home and you’re looking for the best and most reliable pet food online store, check us out at aPetMart. If you still have any burning questions, don’t hesitate to contact us today!
We all have our own ways to de-stress from work. Some of us listen to music, eat nutritious snacks or create an ergonomic workspace. However, did you know that pets at the workplace can also serve the same purpose? More companies are allowing employees to bring their pets to work.
There are many ways bringing your pets to work can increase productivity for everyone. With that said, how do their presence provide us benefits and what do you need to take note when bringing pets to your workplace?
Physically & Mentally Positive
The presence of pets can bring positive benefits to your health physically and mentally.
For instance, a study showed that employees who took their dogs to work experienced lower stress levels throughout the work day and had a more positive perception of their employer, along with higher levels of job satisfaction. Another found that a pet-friendly workplace helps boost productivity and encourages interaction between people.
It’s interesting how these benefits can also lead to a better quality of life. Take it this way: When you are less stressed, there is a decrease in blood pressure. With less stress-related ailments, you will save on healthcare expenses as well. With a boost in morale through interaction with pets, you would find yourself being more proactive at work.
Employers and employees from Inverse-Square have stated how having pets around has helped them pass long work hours happily, and the pets remind them to take necessary breaks. This essentially shows the positive impact pets can have by just being around people who need them the most.
Business Positive
On the business side, did you also know that you can be rewarded for bringing your pets to work? In the U.S, companies such as Amazon and Google have pet-friendly policies, similar to a number of other companies such as Nestle Purina and Ticketmaster. A notable company, BrewDog, a craft brewer in Columbus, Ohio, is offering up to a week of paid time off for new pet owners, known as “pawternity leave”.
A survey conducted by LiveCareer highlighted employees using pet-friendly policies as criteria for taking a job, including their level of commitment to it:
52% of respondents said that they would consider an employer that offers pet-friendly benefits and policies
49% of respondents are convinced to take up a job offer if they offer a pet-friendly work environment
41% of respondents would have a better sense of satisfaction if they had pets in the office
49% of respondents would have recommend their employer to a friend if they allowed pets in the workplace
With this in mind, it is safe to say that the popularity of pet-friendly workplaces is only increasing, and it is a “paw-some” sight to see!
Precautions for Employers & Employees
Having pets around can be fun. However, precautions must be taken to ensure everyone’s safety at the workplace. There are many factors to be considered since you are bringing your pet to a different environment. As a result, they may not be very comfortable at the beginning.
A very important factor is to ensure that your pet is well-trained and behaved. As they are heading to a new environment, they will meet new people and animals. The unintended stress can lead to unusual and destructive behaviour.
So with that said, how do we exercise responsibility when our pets are in our workplace?
Employers
As employers, your responsibility is to ensure everyone is in a healthy work environment. These include:
Creation of Pet-related Policies
Potential Sensitivities within Workplace
Extra Considerations
Creation of Pet-related Policies
Employers need to create policies to ensure that everyone is treated equally in the event that something goes wrong. For example, an employee’s pet may possibly injure someone else or injure themselves. To prevent further conflicts and possible charges, creation of policies are needed.
For instance, employers may state a policy in place that sets out clear responsibility for any damage or injury. In addition, they may also provide rules stating the number of pets you can bring, the kind of pets allowed, and so on.
For example, Hootsuite, a social media management platform, assumes no responsibility for pets on the premises and has guidelines specifically stating that “employees are financially responsible for any damage or cleaning to facilities; including damage from accidents, excessive pet hair and odour removal as required.” They also mentioned that the dog must be six months and older, properly licensed, insured, vaccinated and potty trained. They must also be kept on a leash, to stay off the furniture, use a pet-designated elevator and play in one of the outdoor spaces nearby.
Potential Sensitivities Within Workplace
The well-being of your employees is always your first priority. Understanding their feelings towards having pets within the workplace allows you to have ideas to accommodate them.
For instance, it is good to know if anyone has an allergy history to pets. Common ways to accommodate employees who are allergic is to essentially have the pets be kept in certain areas of the building away from the allergic employees.
Extra Considerations
As pet lovers, let’s not forget the price we have to pay to take care of these adorable creatures. There can be additional costs for pet care, pet-proofing office. These costs range from $500-$1500 a year for one pet per year.
Including pets in the workplace requires employers to take on some of these costs, such as the toys, treats and any miscellaneous accidental damage that naturally occurs when caring for pets.
Employees
As employees, you must also be aware of your surroundings when it comes to bringing your pet.
Ensure that your pet has been:
Potty-trained
Well-trained and behaved
Vaccinated and licenced (most important for dogs)
Keep it on a leash
Well-fed
It is your responsibility to take good care of your pet, avoid it from having conflicts with other animals and humans when possible, and always provide them with meals.
Apart from that, do not forget about the well-being of your co-workers. Ask if they have any allergies to certain pets, and respect their space if they do. It is advisable to be patient with the process if your pet feels nervous attempting to interact with new people and animals. They can also be like us, taking their time to warm up to everyone else. Once your pet gets used to the environment, it would be a pleasing sight.
Of course, you shouldn’t force them to adjust to a certain environment. There are some pets that prefer to stay within the comforts of their home, and it is understandable as to why they would. From my personal experience, I’ve tried walking my cats out years back, and they ended up just crawling like turtles! So I believe they are okay with it if you leave them resting at home, they’ll appreciate you just as much once you make your way home safely.
A Purrific Trend
It is an amazing sight to see how pets have been integrated into our society. They may not be working the jobs we do, but to have them present by our side, makes things all the more wholesome!
It is only a matter of time until we see more and more companies adopting their own pet-policies. Until then, keep appreciating the pets you have, and remind them how much you love them.
If you ask anybody who’s ever taken care of a bird, they’d tell you they’re delightful pets. Birds are creatures with noteworthy personalities and lifespans that can rival even humans! Because of this, they make great lifelong companions and wonderful pets.
On the flip side, caring for them is a whole different ballpark. Luckily, keeping your birds safe, happy, and healthy with the right tools and know-how is within your capabilities. We’ve taken the liberty to compile everything you’d need to know in this comprehensive guide to bird care.
General information
Your pet birds may be unique, but their needs are more or less universal. They require clean enclosures, fresh food, water, fun and safe toys, plenty of exercise, and some of your attention. Ensure that their cages have enough space for them to move around and a grate so you can keep your bird away from the substrate.
Feeding them
The first thing all bird caretakers have to know is how and what to feed them. In general, their diets are made up of bird seed – a food that provides them with all the necessary vitamins. However, only feeding your bird pre-packaged, dry seeds will not suffice. They also need to be fed vegetables, the greener, the better. These can include spinach, parsley, or even celery. For additional strength, milk and fruit can significantly benefit their health.
Their upkeep
Here are some things you can do to ensure that your bird will thrive with you:
Shower them! Unlike other pets, birds love playing in the water. It goes a long way in ensuring their sanitation as well.
Let them bask in the sunlight during the daytime, but they enjoy complete darkness at night. You can use a blackout cover to achieve this effect.
Make sure they get enough exercise! Toys are great for keeping them up and flying around in their cages. You can even let them out of the cage weekly for a bit of supervised exercise. Just pick a safe place and let them soar.
Socialisation
Learning about the behaviour of birds in the wild is essential to learning how they’d act as pets. For example, birds like undomesticated parrots are quite sociable. They are used to doing everything in their flock. When you keep them as pets, your parrot considers you and your family their flock and longs to be included in your activities. If you’ve ever wondered why your parrot screeches when it is away from your family, it’s probably just trying to get the “flock’s” attention. It’s also good to note that parrots, like many birds, mate for life. If your parrot already has a companion, it will most likely be unfriendly towards other birds in an attempt to protect their “mate.”
Conclusion
Taking care of a pet bird is a huge commitment, but it is ultimately worth it. Birds are exceptionally intelligent, compassionate, and fascinating animals. If you take care of them, they will pay you back in kind, trying their best to be great companions to you. For the tools and accessories needed to provide them with the care they deserve, turn to aPetMart. We reliably provide high-quality online pet supplies in Singapore. Contact us today to learn more!
There comes a point in time when animal lovers consider owning the pet of their dreams. However, it doesn’t mean that they are allowed to keep any pets that they wish for if they were to live in a HDB flat.
On a brighter note, with recent changes made to allow bigger sized dogs to be rehomed, it makes the process of adoption far more convenient for those whose criteria expands beyond owning small dogs.
In this blog, we will be highlighting the dog breeds allowed for adoption, as well as rules and regulations to owning pets within HDBs.
Dog Regulations and Good Practices
To own a pet, you must understand what it means to be a responsible owner. To prevent conflicts with your housing estate and neighbours, there are rules by HDB you must abide by.
Flouting HDB rules will result in hefty fines up to $4,000.
The table below summarises regulations pet owners must follow to adopt a dog:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Answer
How many dogs can I own?
1 per HDB Flat
Is there a restriction as to how big my dog can be?
– Maximum height up to 40 cm – Weight of 10 kg and below – Singapore Special with a shoulder height up to 55cm under Project ADORE
$15, refer to NParks’ Page for terms and conditions.
It is also important that you exercise good practice when it comes to creating a safe and comfortable environment for your dog:
Ensure it doesn’t bark excessively
Pick up and dispose their waste promptly
Keep them safe and secured in your home
Ensure your dog socialises with your neighbours when possible to avoid future conflicts
HDB Approved Dog Breeds
The infographic below shows the 62 dog breeds approved by the Housing and Development Board (HDB).
We have also provided a short description of the dog breeds regarding their traits. This is to ensure that you have what it takes to care for that specific breed once you have made up your mind!
If you wish to adopt a dog that’s not listed on the HDB list, you will need to live in a private property unit.
HDB Approved Dogs under Project ADORE
If you stay in HDB but love bigger dogs, Project ADORE is for you. Despite the dog size limits, Project ADORE (ADOption and REhoming of Dogs) aims to look past the restrictions. Introduced in April 2012, Project ADORE was implemented to assess the acceptance of mixed-breed dogs in HDB estates if proper safeguards were in place.
Only dogs adopted from these 5 participating dog shelters are qualified for the scheme:
SPCA
Action for Singapore Dogs
Save Our Street Dogs
Exclusively Mongrels
Causes for Animals
1335 of these mixed breed dogs, also known as Singapore Specials, had been successfully rehomed as of 31 December 2019.
In March 2020, the Animal and Veterinary Service (AVS) announced a revised criterion for Project ADORE, with the hope to allow 20% more local mixed-breed dogs to be adopted each year.
Pet lovers interested in adopting Singapore Specials may refer to this table:
Size of Singapore Special
– Shoulder height up to 55 cm – No weight restrictions
Must the dog be sterilised, vaccinated and microchipped?
Yes
Must the dog complete training?
The dog must have undergone basic obedience training by AVA-accredited trainers
In addition, under this schedule, you must do the following:
Understand that only 1 registered dog is allowed per HDB household
Check that your immediate neighbours are open to you having a dog
Sign a declaration that you’ll observe the Code of Responsible Behaviour (CORB)
Apply for an AVA licence.
There are many benefits to adopting a Singapore Special. They tend to be intelligent, which makes them easily trainable. Additionally, their longer lifespans of up to 15 years make them the perfect choice for family pets. Sadly, they are often overlooked due to their tendency to be difficult at times.
However, if you give yourself enough time and effort, they will start to warm up to you and understand what it is like to feel loved. So trust the process!
Are Cats Allowed to Live in HDB Flats?
Unfortunately, due to housing laws, cats are not allowed in flats. The reason stated is due to being “difficult to contain within the “flat”. When they are not kept indoors, their fur, urine and faeces may pose health and hygiene risks to the public. In addition, it is cited that caterwauling may also cause inconvenience to neighbours.
However, this rule has not stopped cat lovers from having the felines in HDB flats.. As long as you manage to keep them well-behaved and your neighbours happy, it does not seem that the rule was strictly enforced.
As felines have won the hearts of many, the authority has been experimenting to lift the rules under a pilot scheme known as Love Cats. About 120 households in HDB flats in Chong Pang at Yishun have been permitted to raise one feline each under this scheme which was launched in October 2021, as long as the cats are microchipped, sterilised and kept indoor.
This pilot scheme is run by the Cat Welfare Society with support from government agencies such as the Housing and Development Board (HDB) and the Ministry of National Development (MND).
They are also supported by Law Minister K. Shanmugam and Louis Ng, who is the Member of Parliament for Nee Soon GRCand the founder of ACRES Group (Animal Concerns Research and Education Society).
Pets That Can Be Adopted Aside From Dogs
Keeping small pets is permitted within HDB flats, so long as they don’t cause inconvenience to neighbours or mess up common areas.
These pets include:
Birds (except house crow, white-vented or Javan myna, common myna, feral pigeon, birds that are protected wildlife species)
Chinchillas
Fish (except piranhas and fish that are protected wildlife)
Gerbils
Green tree frogs
Guinea Pigs
Hamsters
Land Hermit crabs
Malayan box turtles
Mice
Rabbits
For birds and fishes, please note that those listed in the CITES Appendices must be imported with CITES permits or Certificates of Origin. The NParks website of the Animal and Veterinary Service provides more info on what other pets can be raised in Singapore.
Licensing for Other Pets
As far as research goes, there isn’t a stated fact that you must register your pets if it is not a dog. However, AVS encourages that you observe the Code of Animal Welfare, which specifies the minimum standards for animal housing, management, and care which pet owners are expected to comply with. It is written in the form of a booklet and infographic, both of which you should take a look at by clicking on the respective words.
Other Banned Pets
In addition to cats, there are also other animals that are not allowed to be kept as HDB pets, such as:
Hedgehogs
Bearded dragons
Star tortoises
Sugar Gliders
Snakes
Crocodilian Reptiles
The reasoning for these animals is mainly due to safety concerns.
To All Pet Owners, Stay Responsible
Before getting a pet, ensure that you have done your research and are fully prepared to commit to the life of a pet owner. If you already have owned one, always research ways to make their quality of living even better! Don’t buy a pet just because you can. You should always consider if it is something that you feel a special connection to. It’s a whole new adventure once you become a pet owner, but it’s an exciting one!
While the homeless dogs wandering in concrete jungles are known as strays, mutts and mongrels in other countries, they hold a special place in many Singaporeans’ hearts. Affectionately known as Singapore Specials, many of these street dogs have been successfully rehomed in Singapore.
The love for Singapore Special dogs has been steadily growing over the years. The possibility of adopting a Singapore Special is good news if you are a big dog lover who stays in HDB flats.
Are you familiar with the process of adoption, and how Singapore Special’s traits may be different from the popular dog breeds in Singapore? Read on to find more.
What You Should Know
Singapore Specials have traits not easily distinguishable compared to purebred dogs. They are mixed-breed dogs. That means not all of them behave the same way despite being categorised as a Singapore Special. Some may be aggressive, others passive. Some may be shy, others sociable.
The life of caring for a Singapore Special dog isn’t always an easy breeze. There are a lot of considerations to be taken if you are looking to adopt one.
Prior to being rescued by animal shelters, it has always been a dog eat dog world in their eyes. These poor creatures had to live in the streets of Singapore feeding off whatever they could find in order to survive. As a result of their experience, it can be very difficult for them to easily trust someone who is willing to take care of them.
Those who display aggressive behaviours towards their new owners tend to be sent back to their shelters, seeking for another better home.
Hence, it is important that in order to be a responsible owner of these dogs, you must be patient with your development with your companion. It might take some time for them to open up their trust to you, but it is a process that is deemed worthwhile!
Why You Should Adopt Singapore Specials
We believe that if you have what it takes to care for a Singapore Special, you should still go for it!
Adopting Singapore Specials has its benefits:
Healthier – Most dogs in Singapore come from puppy mills. They have a known reputation for having atrocious conditions breeding dogs with serious health issues.
Longer Lifespans – Mixed breed dogs tend to live a long life of up to 15 years or more as they have fewer health
Intelligent and Trainable – They tend to pick things up fast and adapt to living conditions well.
Affordability – Compared to buying a puppy, adoption incurs much less cost. In addition, as Singapore Specials have fewer health issues, it means you don’t have to keep visiting the vet apart from bringing your Singapore Specials to routine checkups.
Adoption Requirements
To adopt a dog, you are to comply with the rules instilled by the Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS). Failure to do so may result in hefty fines.
Owners are required to:
Sign a Code of Responsible Behaviour (CORB) which mandates that your dog doesn’t cause nuisances to your neighbours
Have undergone basic obedience training by AVA-accredited trainers at point of adoption
Ensure that your dog has been sterilised, microchipped and brought for routine vaccinations.
Have their pet licensed by the NParks Animal & Veterinary Services (AVS) via PALS.
Dog lovers that live in HDBs have the privilege of undergoing Project ADORE. However, while you are to observe the rules previously mentioned, take note of the restrictions below on Singapore Specials living in HDB flats.
There is no weight restriction.
Their Shoulder height cannot exceed 55 cm.
They have to be at least 6 months old.
How To Adopt a Singapore Special if You Live in HDB Flats
If you have dreamed of having a big dog in your HDB flats, Singapore Special is for you! Singapore Special is one of the dog breeds allowed in HDB flats. As of now, you can adopt Singapore Special from the 6 participating dog shelters below under Project ADORE:
Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA)
Visit the shelters’ official websites for more information on how you can adopt one of these dogs for yourselves.
We recommend that you visit the dog shelter if it is allowed, so that you can get a chance to understand the behaviour of the various dogs and bond with them at the shelter. Furthermore, the shelter staff may help you clear up your doubts.
Founded in 1947, Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) is a registered, non-governmental animal welfare charity. They provide 24-hour emergency rescues, cruelty and welfare investigations and are Singapore’s only community animal clinic.
They also include adoption programmes, education programmes, sterilisations for community animals, and a shelter for over 200 unwanted, abused or abandoned animals every month.
Established in December 2000, Action for Singapore Dogs strives to improve the welfare of stray and abandoned dogs in Singapore. They strictly operate on a no-kill policy.
ASD has conducted various activities and programs. These include rescuing, fostering and re-homing of stray and abandoned dogs, advocating sterilisation to control the stray population, responsible pet ownership and highlighting the virtues of the local dogs, the Singapore Specials.
To date, they have rehomed over 3000 dogs and have about 150 dogs in their care, which are housed at their Adoption & Rescue Centre and in foster homes. ASD’s adoption page features images and descriptions of the dogs, as well as if it is HDB Approved. Dog lovers who are interested in adopting such dogs are to fill in an adoption form with their particulars.
Founded in July 2011, Save Our Street Dogs’ mission is simple: To eliminate cruelty and abandonment of animals, enhancing their welfare, and improve the lives of animals and humans, through rescue, education and advocacy.
They have these 3 key areas of focus to help save the street dogs of Singapore:
The name speaks for itself! Exclusively Mongrels is a group that solely focuses on changing the life of mongrel dogs for the better. From time to time, they would also host various events. One recent event held was “Adoption Drive 2022”, where families may look to adopt the various dogs and puppies available.
Similar to Action for Singapore Dogs (ASD), they have adoption forms that’s sorted from HDB to non-HDB approved. Adding on, they also have a separate category dedicated to puppies!
Causes for Animals Limited is an animal welfare charity set up to support the needs of local animal welfare in Singapore. They employ programs and policies to promote best practice, ethical, sustainable and compassionate treatment of the animals.
Putting together a team with over 30 years of combined experience in Animal Welfare Work, they have managed a rescue and adoption program that has helped achieve a success rate of 98% in adoptions.
Mercylight started off in 2009 as a handful of volunteers who fed stray dogs every evening in the eastern side of Singapore. In January 2015, it was incorporated as a non-profit organisation with the aim to promote compassion for animals through the provision of animal welfare services and prevention of cruelty to animals.
By May 2020, they were then conferred the charity status and was henceforth known as Mercylight Animal Rescue & Sanctuary Limited.
To date, they have over 100 committed people volunteering as kennel volunteers, stray feeders, packers, fosterers and sponsors.
Be Nice & Kind
We hope that our article has been helpful in allowing you to have a clear mind of what you wish to achieve in adopting a Singapore Special. Do remember to adopt responsibly. Adopting a pet is a long-term commitment.
These dogs are undoubtedly unique creatures often misunderstood by the general public, but are finally beginning to receive more love as time passes on. They deserve a second chance to be rehomed in a safe environment, and feel the love of a family.
Pets add an indescribable quality to your home. As any pet caretaker would attest, having one makes your lives sparkle much brighter. However, there are some challenges along the way every pet caretaker ought to face. The best you can do is find ways to manage these situations before they get too overwhelming.
It might not always be easy, but it’s a relatively small price to pay for your pet’s unconditional love and affection. With the proper guidance, you’ll be able to overcome the challenges presented in no time.
1. The runaway instinct
A new pet may have an inherent instinct to run away from unfamiliar situations. This is because they haven’t familiarised themselves with you well enough. The bond between you and your pet is untested, so there is no scope for attachment yet.
If they’ve made attempts to escape, don’t worry too much about your competency as a pet caretaker. Most of the time, this tendency has nothing to do with you. Try and anticipate the subsequent attempts instead, and block them.
Be sure to take their safety into extra consideration as well. Runaway pets could end up getting lost or worse. Have safety aids ready if your pet gets hurt or sustains an injury.
2. Separation anxiety
Have you ever felt guilty leaving your pets behind when you go to work because of how genuinely afraid they seem?Just like children, your pets can also get anxious when separated from their caretaker.
If you take the appropriate course of action, you can help your pets overcome their separation anxiety over time. For example, taking your dog out for a walk right before you leave will allow them to be relaxed when you set off. You’ll be able to go with the peace of mind, knowing your pet is content. Finding toys to keep them distracted is also an effective strategy when trying to stave off separation anxiety.
3. Destructive behaviors
Your pet often feels like your best friend, so it’s all the more jarring when you’re not in sync anymore. Sometimes, this leads to chaos. Destructive behaviours, such as furniture chewing, can be attributed to the lack of quality time you’re spending with them.
However, as a working adult, it’s not feasible to drop everything and indulge your pets whenever they want. Your furry friends might not be able to understand this and can create a nuisance when they feel slighted. To prevent this, you’ll want to create games or activities that will divert their attention when you’re away. Sometimes, all they need is a treat, or a food puzzle to keep them from bothering you. With time and patience, you can anticipate their needs and respond accordingly.
4. Medical issues
Being responsible for a living being means that you have to be prepared for any sudden medical emergency they might have. It’s of the utmost importance that you refrain from panicking. Instead, you have to get ready to handle these situations with a steady hand.
To avoid these situations, certain preventative measures should be taken. For example, getting all the required vaccinations and regular veterinary checks can significantly improve their overall health and well-being.
It’s also essential that you get pet insurance to protect yourself and your pets when these issues inevitably crop up. It’s better to be safe than sorry!
Conclusion
While these challenges may seem daunting, any pet caretaker will tell you that the benefits outweigh the potential costs. Having a pet is never going to be an easy endeavour, but it is a worthwhile one. Hopefully, with these tips, you’ll be able to weather any difficulty that comes your way. In the meantime, purchase all your online pet supplies in Singapore from aPetMart, one of the leading pet retailers with every pet essential under the sun. Contact us today to learn more!
Fish tend to be a lower maintenance pet to have, but they’re, by no means, a cakewalk! Proper care and consideration must be put into fish care to ensure that your pet fish are healthy and content.
In that vein, many misconstructions and untruths regarding having fish as pets have been perpetuated for far too long. In this article, we attempt to bust some of these myths and help you better understand fishkeeping.
Myth 1: Fish don’t have long lifespans
People tend to be shocked when knowing that a fish has lived for more than a few years. But in reality, most species of fish should be able to live up to five years. Goldfish even have lifespans of 10 – 25 years.
If you are planning on obtaining some pet fish, don’t be complacent while doing research. Every type of fish has its own varying requirements and care instructions. The reason why so many fish perish before their time is because the people who buy them are unaware of how to care for them in the long run. So, before you make a purchase, ensure you know exactly what you’re in for to prepare accordingly.
Myth 2: Fish aren’t intelligent animals
You’ve probably heard of people comparing their memories to goldfish to describe forgetfulness. The idea that fish have incredibly short memory spans isn’t technically accurate. Fish can remember the time for their feeding by making associations between food and people. When they see you approaching, chances are, they’re aware that they’re about to be fed. Research has shown that some fish can even recognise their caretakers by their faces. If they do have terrible memories, as often posited, they wouldn’t be able to do any of that.
Myth 3: Fish will grow to fill out their tank
Have you ever heard someone say that fish will grow to whatever size their tank is? Well, you’ll want to forget that completely. A fish’s size and its tank are not correlated. Fish come in a broad range of shapes and sizes depending on their species. However, if their tank is too small, it will not be able to reach its true potential, size-wise. There’s also the possibility that their stunted growth could lead to various health problems. Again, the importance of research can’t be overstated. Before you decide what kind of fish to get, make sure you read up on them and buy them a tank that will allow for their proper development.
Myth 4: Fish don’t require filters
The idea that fish don’t need filters to survive is patently untrue. A filter is what keeps your fish’s homes clean. It aids in the removal of all waste, particles, leftover foods, and other harmful chemicals. If these elements are left to fester in the aquarium, the toxins can lead to ammonia build-up; this can cause ammonia poisoning, effectively killing the tank’s inhabitants. To prevent this fate, get a high-quality filter for it.
Conclusion
Even though each of these myths is pervasive, it doesn’t make it any less untrue. If you are planning to become a caretaker for fish, it’s vital that you do the necessary research to ensure a safe and healthy life for them. Find all the required online pet supplies in Singapore at aPetMart. Here, we have all the high-quality fish essentials you could possibly need. Contact us today to learn more!
Pets are unparalleled in their ability to bring a smile to our faces. It’s not surprising that a sizeable percentage of Singaporean families own pets. Through thick and thin, rain or shine, your pet will remain a companion like no other.
Still, many people are unaware of the powerful impact being a pet caretaker can have on a person. Here are a few benefits of having your own animal friend:
1. You’ll never be alone
Depending on your living situation, being at home can get a bit lonely. With a pet, there’s no more chance of feeling like that. Your chosen pet can be a great confidante, even if they don’t speak the same language you do. In fact, that quality is exactly what makes them great listeners. If you’ve ever craved a non-judgemental ear for all your woes and complaints, consider getting a pal of the animal variety.
2. They ease your stress
Life in this day and age can be wrought with anxiety and a boatload of other issues. Often, this stress can manifest in mental health issues and other physical health problems.
Pets are a naturally calming presence. Whether you’re playing with your dog, petting your cat, or even just watching your fish swim around, you’ll notice yourself feeling at ease quicker. Research has shown that people who have pets are less likely to have high blood pressure or cholesterol. In that regard, your pet can literally be a lifesaver.
3. You’ll exercise more than ever
If you’re getting a dog, chances are, you’re going to have to be the one taking them on daily walks. The walks are for them to remain healthy, but it also benefits you in the same way. Sometimes, without any motivation, people have the tendency to become sedated. With a dog, there’s no scope for that. You’ll be doing more running around than ever before, trying to keep up with your energetic pup. Who needs a gym membership anyway?
4. They’ll help you feel safer
Some of us are more susceptible than others to the fear of being alone. For these people, a pet can go a long way in easing these trepidations and helping you feel safer in your own home. Additionally, your house is less likely to be a target of burglary if you have a dog living with you. Certain breeds of dogs even make excellent guard animals, with their every instinct geared towards your protection.
5. You’ll be able to make more friends
People who have pets tend to be friendlier – especially with other pet caretakers. If you’ve ever taken your pet out in public, you’re probably aware that you’re more likely to be spoken to. A pet is a social shortcut since they’re so universally adored. Hence, if you’ve ever felt awkward around others, they’re a great way to undercut all that tension and help you make friends instantaneously.
Conclusion
All in all, taking care of a pet is a serious commitment. However, all the hardships and potential problems pale in comparison to the many advantages of having one. At the end of the day, a loyal companion is worth everything.
If you’re looking for online pet supplies in Singapore to facilitate your newest furry friend, aPetMart is precisely the place for you. With a broad range of premium pet food, accessories, and everything in between, you can be sure that we’ll have everything your pet could ever need. So what are you waiting for? Contact our team today to learn more!
Whoever said that a dog is a man’s best friend wasn’t being hyperbolic. Just like making a best friend in real life, adopting a dog also begins with choosing someone you feel that special connection with. A dog is renowned for its ability to form close and profound relationships with people that can span lifetimes. The best thing you can do for an intelligent, loving animal like that is to give them a second chance at life through adoption.
While adopting is ultimately extremely rewarding and one of the best decisions you can make, adjusting to these changes is not without its challenges – for either party. This transitory period can last anywhere from weeks to months. Still, it is guaranteed to be worth it with the proper amount of patience, understanding, and an unwavering willingness to try.
1. Exercise patience
Patience is a quality that is essential when one is considering dog adoption. Depending on the disposition and past experiences of the dog, they will take some time to get used to their new environment and the people around them. In fact, you may not even be able to gauge a dog’s true personality for a while after adopting them.
It’s vital that you go into this experience with practicality and the necessary foresight. Some dogs may seem hyperactive, some lazy, and others may make messes. You must build a foundation of trust with your dog first; like any other relationship, it takes time.
2. Create a routine
Creating an environment where there is consistency is paramount when adopting a dog. This means that if you live with multiple people, everyone has to get on the same page about the dog’s routine and the rules they must abide by. If everyone in your house has a different idea of how to train your dog, or if they have a chaotic schedule, your dog will naturally feel increasingly nervous and find it difficult to settle.
If you want your home to feel like a safe space for your dog, you’ll want to establish a routine for them. For example, having set timings to feed and walk your dog allows them to orient themselves and, eventually, feel more secure in their new home.
3. House-train your dog
Once again, patience and practicality are qualities that must be emphasised when attempting to house-train your adopted dog. Some of these dogs have received the proper training, but as they adapt to a new environment, it could still lead to accidents.
To prevent these accidents from taking place, bring them to the bathroom frequently. Offer them positive reinforcement by way of praise and treats when they relieve themselves in the correct places.
4. Guide them into good behaviour
Dogs are quick to develop their habits and behavioural patterns. This can be both a good and bad thing. As such, early intervention is critical. When your dog attempts to repeat bad behaviour like jumping on visitors, and it goes unchecked, you’re making it likely that they’ll do it again. As a pet caretaker, you now have to deduce what causes this behaviour and how you can prevent it from happening again.
For example, dog-proof everything if your dog is prone to chewing on items around the house. Cover things that are likely to be chewed on, like furniture or cords, with Bitter Apple. It is an easy-to-find, harmless substance whose bad taste discourages your pets from putting it in their mouth. It would help if you also reward your dog with treats and the like when they refrain from engaging in destructive behaviour.
Conclusion
There are myriad factors to consider before adopting a dog. While you’re gaining a best friend for life, you’re also gaining the responsibility for their life. You want to be able to give these pets the care and attention they deserve. If you’re worried about being ill-prepared, following this article’s advice is a great start.
And for all your dog essentials, visit us at aPetMart, where you’ll find all the online pet supplies in Singaporeyou could ever need. As animal lovers ourselves, we’re sure to provide you with only the best of what your beloved furry companion deserves. Contact us today to find out more!
We are what we eat. The same is true for our pets. While selecting quality pet food is important, storing pet food properly plays a vital role in maintaining the quality and freshness of the food your pet is eating.
In this article, we will offer you some tips on how to properly store your pet food.
Storage of Dry Food
Store at Optimal Temperature
According to the US Food & Drug Administration, pet food should be kept indoors at a cool temperature not more than 26.7°C with low humidity. When exposed to high temperatures or humidity, the fats in pet food may become rancid and the vitamins in the food may break down. In addition, high temperature and humidity would allow mold and bacteria to spread easily.
Moreover, freezing your pet food is not recommended as the moisture in the freezer may lead to mold growth.
Seal Pet Food Tightly
Like all other food, pet food is prone to oxidation. The presence of oxygen deteriorates the quality of food, making it go rancid and ruining the flavor. It speeds up the chemical reactions in food, which results in browning and foul odors. If you are not attentive to the visual change of the kibbles, your pet may fall sick after eating it in the worst case.
Hence, after opening the package, you should try to squeeze out the air and seal it up to minimize the food’s contact with air.
Keep in Its Original Packaging
One mistake a lot of pet parents make is to pour dry food out of its original packaging into a re-sealable plastic bag or an air-tight container for storage. Studies have shown that plastic bags or containers may pass on an odor to the kibbles that alters its taste.
Many dry food packaging comes with an oil-resistant liner that acts as a fat-barrier to retain the integrity of the food. On the contrary, plastic bags and containers may not be able to retain the fats inside the food. After a while, a yellow color stain is often observed in the plastic materials used to store pet food.
Another advantage of keeping pet food in its original packaging is that the UPC code, lot number, & best-by date are readily available in rare cases of a product recall.
If you prefer to keep your pet food in a container, put the entire bag into the container instead of pouring the content directly into it. The main purpose of the pet food storage containers are to keep the food securely from your pets, pests and adverse environmental conditions.
Clean the Container Regularly
If you keep your pet food in a container, clean it regularly. Constantly topping up the food by mixing the new batch with the old ones is not recommended. This is because failure to remove the leftover crumbs might lead to the build-up of bacteria and mold which may contaminate the food.
Furthermore, mixing food of different batches may lead to confusion over the expiry date.
Storage of Wet Food
Keeping It Cool
Before it is opened, canned food can be stored at a room temperature with low humidity. Once opened, it is recommended to keep the canned food inside the fridge. This preserves its moisture and reduces the transfer of odors to other food. Do not place canned food inside the freezer as it could change the texture and taste of the food.
Wrap It Up
Once the can has been opened, it is recommended to wrap it up with a cling wrap or cover it with a lid before storing it in the fridge. This will help to minimize the exposure of the food to oxygen.
Always Double Check
As a final reminder, it is always important to check the condition of your pet food before feeding it to your pet. A change in color, texture, or smell of the food may be a telling sign that the food has gone bad.
Good pet food storage practice will help to retain the freshness and the nutrients of your pet’s every meal.
Have you ever wondered if cats can heal humans? While the independent nature of cats may not make them suitable for rescue missions, cats with loving personalities are great candidates to offer emotional support to humans.
With the increasing popularity of cat therapy, more cats are being trained to visit public places to help humans in need. The psychological benefits of having a cat are backed by science. As the “purr-fect” companion for humans, cats can be your personal form of emotional support.
1. Keep You Company & Reduce Your Loneliness
Nothing beats returning home after a long day to see your cats waiting for you within the comforts of your home, hinting at you to give them the attention they needed while you were away.
This feeling of comfort gives people a sense of purpose, knowing that there is a living soul waiting at home yearning for their love and attention. Being accompanied by cats simply keeps the feeling of loneliness away.
2. Improve Mental Health
Recent studies have shown that cats could help people with mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression.
Having cats around you also boosts your serotonin level. Serotonin is a chemical present within our bodies, which acts as a neurotransmitter. It serves as an important function by regulating our mood. With the boost, it essentially makes you feel much happier and less anxious.
Have you ever petted your cat and felt that sensational feeling in wanting to hug them a lot more? That is the serotonin boost effect working on your body.
As you get to understand your cat better, the bond that you have between each other becomes stronger. You may also get to pick up on your cat’s body language overtime, and make up tricks that only you and your cat understands.
Cats tend to purr because they feel happy and comfortable in their environment, a norm agreed upon by many. However, they may also do the same when experiencing pain or illness. When a cat purrs, they release endorphins, hormones that block out nerve cells from receiving the pain signals. In fact, cat purring shows the same effect on humans. The presence of cats simply helps humans deal with rejections and other negative emotions.
In nature, natural sounds at a low pitch have a calming effect as it is recognized by our brains as non-threatening noises. Cat purring, as a low-humming noise, tends to make people feel relaxed, reducing the fight-or-flight responses.
On top of that, the independent nature of cats enables them to care for themselves well. As low maintenance pets, cats usually have no problem keeping themselves well groomed. This simply means living with cats is simply less stressful as compared to caring for other animals.
4. Lower Risk In Heart Diseases
In addition, the presence of cats helps reduce the risk of heart diseases. According to a study by researches from the University of Minnesota’s Stroke Institute in Minneapolis, persons with cats have a lower risk of mortality caused by cardiovascular diseases. This may be due to the fact that cats help humans cope with stress and encourage the production of serotonin, the “feel-good” hormone.
5. Promote Physical Healing
On top of healing you mentally, cat purr can heal you physically as well. The frequency of cat purring is approximately between 25Hz and 140Hz. The same frequency has been used in vibration therapy to aid the healing of broken bones, wound, joint and tendon issues in humans.
6. Encourage a Healthier Lifestyle
Living with a pet means a list of pet-related chores has inevitably been added to your daily routine. While taking care of your cat, you must have subconsciously structured your timetable in such a way to ensure that your cat is well-fed and groomed. These routine activities help you to maintain an active and stable lifestyle.
Cats are wonderful feline creatures with a lot to offer. They may be hard to understand at times. However, if there’s anything that they really truly care about: it is you.
A new aquarium may be an enjoyable and delightful experience. However, a normal aquarium is usually purchased on the spur of the moment, filled with water and fake plants, and then stuffed with fish the next day. As a result, there is disappointment, remorse, and dead fish.
Choosing the ideal tank and devoting the time to proper setup can assure a great experience. The more research you can conduct ahead of time, the better your chances of success. There are a few factors that you should consider before putting your fish in the aquarium.
Tank Size
If you just plan on keeping a few fishes, a basic 37 litre aquarium would most likely be enough. Choose the largest tank that will accommodate both your money and your space. The larger the aquarium, the better for its inhabitants. A higher water volume dilutes pollutants more effectively. Furthermore, it is more resistant to abrupt changes in water chemistry, which can harm fish and living plants. Larger tanks develop a steady nitrogen cycle faster, which makes fish less stressed.
Tanks can usually be divided into three categories – standard, long, and display tanks. Each has advantages and disadvantages. The sort of tank you buy is usually determined by the type of fish and the amount of space available.
Regular tanks are the standard tanks that you see on store shelves or online. Depending on their size, they can hold huge or tiny schools of fish.
A basic 37 litre tank makes an excellent isolation or hospital tank for ill fish.
Long tanks are, as the name implies, longer and shallower than standard tanks. These take up more room and are usually utilised for breeding and schooling fish.
Tall and narrow show tanks and are strictly for displaying a small population of fish.
Location
Tank choices will be heavily influenced by the location. A tank should be installed on a flat surface, away from air vents or heaters, and away from direct sunlight. There should be an outlet nearby to supply electricity for lighting, warmth, and filtration.
When deciding where to put a tank, keep the weight of the final setup in mind. Larger tanks are much heavier, thus the flooring or tank stand must be strong enough to hold such weight. The tank should be next to a water source to allow water changes and tank cleanings. Allow extra space around the tank for cleaning and other maintenance procedures.
Tank Material
Choosing between glass and acrylic tanks can be mind boggling. However, choosing the right tank for you can save you from a lot of hassle. Glass aquariums are more costly than acrylic aquariums and are more scratch resistant. They can support more weight than acrylic and can be placed on a stand that is open on top.
Acrylic tanks are more prone to scratches, but they can be fixed if necessary. They are less prone to crack or shatter than glass tanks because they are more flexible. These tanks are lighter, they may be a good alternative if you move frequently or modify your décor. However, they do require placement on a flat, continuous surface. Acrylic tanks can fog with time, while glass will keep its purity longer.
Shape
Once upon a time, the only alternatives were a rectangle tank or a fish bowl. Tanks may now assume many shapes thanks to advances in technology and new materials.
There are squares, hexagons, cylindrical tanks, bow fronted tanks, and even coffee table tanks. Tanks with rectangular and hexagonal forms are now the most common. When selecting a shape, make sure it will fit in the space and will not obstruct traffic flow.
Rectangular fish tanks are ideal for improved water quality and fish health. This is because the surface area of air and water is bigger, allowing for more effective gas exchange.
An untraditional tank may perform well and look just as great. However, you may have to spend more time monitoring and maintaining water quality. When choosing a shape, keep the residents in mind. Due to fishes’ morphology and natural activity, they require adequate room.
Taller fish, such as freshwater angelfish, will thrive in higher-than-long tanks. They need height to avoid cramping in a smaller environment and probable fin damage. Long, fast-swimming species, such as zebrafish, or schooling fish, such as tetras thrive in longer tanks. Compared to tall tanks, longer tanks have more horizontal room to swim in.
Learn about the fish you wish to keep in your aquarium. Different personalities may not get along. Some fish are aggressive, and they may injure or even kill other, more docile species. Fish with semi-aggressive and aggressive attitudes can coexist if your fish tank is large enough for them to avoid colliding.
How Much Time You Have For Your Fish
Fish are low-maintenance pets, but they still require time and attention. Begin each day by inspecting all of the fish in your aquarium. Remove any dead fish as soon as possible using a net. You will need to check the water temperature on a regular basis. Additionally, make sure the filters are operating correctly, and clean the tank.
Does your pet itch, scratch or lick themselves excessively? It can mean that your furbaby may have allergies. While humans often outgrow allergies, allergies in pets tend to worsen as they age. How do you know whether your pet suffers from allergies?
Common Allergies in Pets
To know if your pet suffers from allergies, you have to understand the common types of allergies in pets. There are skin allergies, food allergies, and environmental-caused allergies. To make things more complicated, the symptoms of all these allergies often overlap.
#1 Flea Allergies
Flea allergies are the most frequent skin illness in your pets. A single or two flea bites each week are enough to make affected pets itchy. The allergen that causes the itching is the flea saliva.
Signs of Flea Allergies
Itchy skin and irritation (especially at the base of the tail)
Your pets can develop food allergies, also known as adverse food responses, at any time in their lives. The allergy is most commonly triggered by the protein component of the food. For instance, beef, pig, chicken, or turkey. Food allergies can also be caused by vegetable proteins. For example, those found in maize or wheat, as well as food additives and preservatives. Itching, intestinal problems, and respiratory discomfort are some of the symptoms.
Signs of Food Allergies
Gastrointestinal signs, such as diarrhoea
Vomiting, or an increased number of bowel movements per day
Environmental allergies, also known as atopy, compounds found in your house or wherever else your pet spends time can trigger.
These allergens are ingested or absorbed through the skin when your pet comes into contact with them. Some common allergens include:
Pollens
Plant or animal fibres
Dust mites
Mould spores
Signs of Environmental Allergies
Scratching/itchy skin, licking (especially the paws), and face rubbing.
Red skin
Loss of fur, and recurrent skin
Ear infections
Common Signs of Allergies in Pets
Itchy skin
Scratching
Licking
Face rubbing
Red skin
Loss of fur
Recurrent skin and ear infections
Gastrointestinal (GI) signs
Vomiting or diarrhoea
Snoring caused by an inflamed throat
Paw chewing or swollen, sensitive paws
Allergies in Pet Treatment By Type
#1 Flea Allergies
The goal of flea allergy dermatitis treatment is to alleviate itching skin and irritation until the fleas are gone. Flea management is necessary to reduce allergy symptoms in a flea-allergic dog.
There are several flea control solutions and drugs on the market. Some come in the form of a liquid that you press into your dog’s skin. Others, such as NexGard are chewable tablets are oral medications. Consult your veterinarian to identify the best course of action.
#2 Environmental Allergies
If allergy testing is not done, the therapy will be symptomatic. It will try to minimise or eliminate your dog’s symptoms. Some treatments include:
Oral medicines such as antihistamines
Injectable medicines
Omega-3 fatty acids
Steroids
Bathing often
Steroids should not be a long-term usage in the management of allergies. It can cause serious adverse effects.
#3 Food Allergies
Treatment for food allergies can include feeding a hypoallergenic diet for 8-12 weeks. By doing so can you tell if your dog has a food allergy.
Hypoallergenic diets feature fewer components and employ an unusual protein source. They are processed differently (hydrolyzed) to reduce allergic symptoms. The idea is that a pet cannot be allergic to something it has never eaten before.
To determine the right diet, consult your veterinarian. Additionally, over-the-counter foods are not recommended for a proper food trial. During the trial time avoid, treats, flavoured medication, and human meals. Other allergy treatments which seek to ease symptoms may be carried out by veterinarians while they wait to see whether a diet change may help.
Regular grooming is essential for dogs of all breeds. Grooming keeps their coat lustrous and tangle-free. Furthermore, it allows you to check for parasite infestations and skin problems. Plus, grooming can serve as a bonding opportunity for you and your pooch.
Find an Appropriate Grooming Environment
Before grooming your dog, you must first find a safe and suitable grooming setting. This can assist in any possible unfortunate accidents that may occur. There are a few things you should keep in mind:
When it comes to pet grooming, good lighting is critical.
You’ll want to choose a peaceful and secure location. A non-slip surface should be present to prevent slipping.
Choose a suitable time to groom your dog. This will ensure minimal disturbance.
Stay Calm and Patient At All Times
Your pets can sense your emotions. As a result, it is critical that you remain calm throughout the grooming process. If you are nervous, you should not try to groom your dog.
Some dogs may become agitated, for instance, when getting their nails trimmed. If this is the case, wait until your dog has calmed down. Trim a few nails each time, try not to rush to prevent accidents. When using nail clippers, trimmers, or scissors, make sure to be extra cautious.
Make sure to praise your dog and give them additional pets and treats throughout the process. It will be easier for both of you and your dog if they see grooming as a joyful experience.
Understanding Your Canine’s Limits
Your dog may not be able to stay still and remain calm long enough for you to groom them properly. To fix this, you could chat with your veterinarian about natural therapies that can help them relax.
If you insist on grooming your pouch at home, enlist the help of a trusted friend. This is because some pets may need a two-person grooming ritual. Additionally, it is recommended that you do not attempt to groom your dog if you do not feel comfortable doing so.
Establish a Routine
Establishing a schedule for your dog would be a good idea. Each time, use the same equipment, the same location, and the same sequence of actions. By doing so, your dog will know what to anticipate, reducing their fear. Make sure you have all of your tools before you begin so there would be no unnecessary interruptions.
Make Sure To Use Proper Grooming Equipment
If you decide to groom your pet yourself, be sure you have the right grooming supplies. You’ll need the appropriate scissors, nail trimmers, brushes, and other tools. Proper grooming equipment may work better and last longer. It’s crucial to clean and sharpen your tools after each usage and store them properly.
Choose the Right Shampoo
There are many shampoo options out in the market. However, not every shampoo option will be suitable for your dog. Thus, you may want to choose the right one for your dog. Find the perfect shampoo for your canine at aPetMart.
Use Correct Clippers
It is a good idea to keep a few sets of dog clipper blades on hand. Dog clipper blades have different sizes. For example, numbers 5, 7, 9, or 10 should be used for a shorter cut, while blades like numbers 8, 3 or 4 should be used for a longer cut. Use number 10 blade for delicate and hard-to-reach regions such intimate areas, around the eyes, and arm/leg pits.
Remember to always go with the flow of their hair development while using clippers. Make sure to hold the rear of the blade at an angle and the tip against your flesh. Pull the skin tight as you glide the trimmer along to prevent cutting it. Furthermore, it will ensure safe grooming and give them a smooth and even coat.
Preparation
Before any grooming processes, use a dog slicker brush or comb to carefully go through your dog’s coat while washing them. This is to untangle any mats and get rid of any excess loose hair so that the grooming process is quicker.
Additionally, make sure they are fully dry. This is due to the fact that their fur curls up when wet. By drying them thoroughly, it will save you from having clogged clippers.
As a responsible pet parent, it is your duty to stay vigilant when it comes to your pet’s health. As the weather is warm all year round in tropical countries, pets are more prone to develop heat stroke.
Dogs and cats are unable to respond to heat as well as humans do. We have sweat glands all over our bodies helping us regulate temperature. However, dogs and cats only have a few in their feet and around their noses. Thus, they rely on panting and external cooling sources to lose heat.
Since they are unable to cool themselves as quickly as us, we must take extra precautions. Provide them with a cool, well-ventilated and shaded surroundings. Additionally, giving them access to clean, fresh drinking water is crucial. Heat stroke is fairly common in pets, and it can develop much faster than you think.
What is Heatstroke?
Heatstroke is a state of hyperthermia resulting in heat injury to tissues. Heatstroke occurs when heat generation exceeds the body’s ability to lose heat.
What are the Primary Causes of Heatstroke in Pets?
A warm, humid environment with inadequate ventilation.
Inadequate shade
Inadequate fresh drinking water
Excessive exercise
Heatstroke is a serious and life-threatening condition! It can cause damage to your pet’s internal organs and sometimes to the point where they stop functioning. It can be rapidly fatal which requires immediate treatment.
Signs of Heatstroke in Pets
Signs of mental confusion, delirium
Dizziness, staggering
Weakness and lethargy
Muscle tremors
Seizures Collapsing and lying down
Little to no urine production Coma
Panting, which increases as heat stroke progresses
Drooling, salivating
Agitation, restlessness
Bright red tongue
Very red or pale gums
Increased heart rate
Breathing distress
Vomiting, diarrheas (possibly with blood)
If you see any of the symptoms in your pet or suspect heatstroke, administer Emergency First Aid at home. Then, immediately take your pet to the doctor.
Emergency First Aid
#1 Immediately remove your pet from the hot environment.
#2 Apply cool water onto their fur and skin. Then, fan them to maximise heat loss.
Do not use ice-water as it may worsen the situation.
Heatstroke is an emergency. Always see a vet. Even if your pet looks like they may be recovering, they should still always be checked by a vet.
Watch this video by California Veterinary Specialists to learn more about Pet Emergency First Aid Heat Stroke.
How Do Vets Help Pets with Heatstroke?
Vets are trained to diagnose the degree of heatstroke. If necessary, administer emergency medical care. They will take your pet’s temperature and vital signs before starting emergency treatment which may include:
Supplemental oxygen
Medication as required
Blood tests to check organ function
Cooling treatments e.g. cooling enemas
Putting your pet on a drip (intravenous fluids)
Ongoing monitoring and treatment as required
Some Other Causes of Heatstroke in Pets
** IMPORTANT ** All pets are susceptible to heatstroke, owners must take proactive measures to avoid it. However, some additional known risk factors include:
Nothing beats seeing our pets play with their favourite toys. However, your four-legged friend’s favourite toys will soon begin to show signs of wear. Toys which are often used retain countless germs and filth. Additionally, these toys would not be as aesthetically beautiful as they were before. Thus, it is important for you to clean their toys, but how should you do it?
How To Clean Different Toys
To start off, refrain from using harsh chemicals. Keep in mind that your pet plays with toys by carrying them in their mouths. Instead, rinse in hot water and squeeze dry. Avoid using scented detergents on their toys. Your pet may not enjoy their toys if they smell like a flower meadow.
Next, it is important to follow cleaning instructions on the toy’s packaging. Different toys have different specific sets of steps to follow when cleaning them. With that, make sure that the toys are thoroughly rinsed and dried before giving them back to your pet.
Plush Toys
When washing soft toys, use a pet-safe detergent or avoid using detergent altogether. The washing machine is safe for your pet’s favourite plush animal or blanket. To preserve stuffed animals from being harmed by the spin motion of a washing machine, place them in mesh garment bags or pillow covers. Your pet will be able to reclaim their companion once the plush animal has been washed and dried. You may also hand-wash soft toys with the half-water, half-vinegar solution. After that, either air-dry the toys or place them in the dryer (without using dryer sheets). To minimise mould growth, ensure plush toys are thoroughly dry.
Chew Toys
When cleaning chew toys, cover any holes with tape to prevent cleaning agents from going inside. It should be noted that with certain chew toys, the object may become too worn for your dog to use properly. To avoid your pet consuming plastic or fabric, discard a toy as soon as it begins to break or develop holes.
Rope Toys
Rope toys not only retain your pet’s drool, but they also carry many pathogens. To destroy bacteria, mould, and yeast, moisten the toys and microwave them for at least a minute. Another way to clean these toys is to run them through a hot washing machine cycle without detergent.
When is it Time to Toss the Toy?
Checking and evaluating your pet’s toys on a regular basis is crucial. In certain circumstances, tossing and replacing them is preferable to cleaning or repairing them.
Signs to Toss a Toy:
been too heavily chewed and chomped to be adequately cleaned
torn or tattered to the point where the stuffing is falling out
has parts and pieces that are just starting to fall or break off. It could become a choking hazard or intestinal blockage if swallowed.
If all your pet’s toys are worn out, check out aPetMart’s toy collections for new ones.
Hay is an essential component of a small animal’s diet. Feeding hay can be beneficial in many ways. These include preventing dental problems and preserving digestive health. Most importantly, supplying the appropriate quantity of vitamins and minerals. However, with so many hay options available, you may be stumped as to which is ideal for your small furry buddy.
Timothy Hay is a type of hay that is a staple meal for domestic adult rabbits, guinea pigs, and chinchillas. It is high in fibre while being low in protein and calcium and provides a variety of healthy nutrients. All these elements contribute to keeping their teeth in good health and the digestive system working properly.
Pros:
Ideal for adults
Provides protein and fibre
Less calcium preventing urinary stones
Cons:
Not suitable for young small animals as there is not enough nutrients for them.
Orchard Grass hay is an alternative to timothy hay if your small animal is a picky eater. It is high in fibre and low in protein. Even though Orchard Grass contains slightly more protein than Timothy Hay, it is still low enough in protein to be offered to them freely.
Meadow hay is a blend that provides small animals with a range of texture and flavours. However, other plants, as well as detritus and stone, may be present in the mixture. If you buy this type of hay, you should know where it originated from and what it contains. Otherwise, you won’t know what you’re feeding your small furry friend. As a result, the protein and calcium level in meadow hay varies.
Oat hay may contain oat, wheat and barley. It is high in vitamins, fibre and minerals but low in protein. Many small animals may appreciate the crunchiness of the seed husks. Unless purchased in a blend, it is more expensive than other hays.
Alfalfa is a legume in the pea family that is rich in nutrients and strong in energy. It is harvested in the spring or early summer, and one field can produce many cuttings per season. This hay is ideal for young animals’ first six months of life. It contains large quantities of calcium and protein, both of which are necessary for development. However, if fed to an adult, the high calcium content might produce urinary stones.
Pros:
High in protein
High in minerals
Ideal for young small animals
Essential for growth
Cons:
Too rich for adult small animals
High calcium content which can cause urinary stones
Buying hay for your small animal can feel complicated. There are a variety of hay to choose from, 1st cut, 2nd cut and 3rd cut. However, which one is the more suitable for your small furry ones?
1st Cut
First cut hay is the first growth off of the season before the field blossoms. It usually has thinner stems and is not as leafy because it is not mature to the point where the stem becomes larger. This hay is higher in fibre content and lower in protein and fat content. The colour of the hay is much lighter with more yellow and brown parts.
Additionally, first cut hay has many seed heads which small animals love. If the first cut is cut too late, it can be hard and crunchy, which is not appreciated by small animals. First cut hay is usually suitable for small furry ones that are overweight as it is lower in protein.
2nd Cut
Second cut hay is the second crop taken off the field that has been harvested once. This cut of hay is usually recommended for small animals. The reason is that it has a larger percentage of leaves to stems, and a finer and softer stem which gives a pleasant texture for nibbling. The colour of the hay is greener and it is less stemy compared to the first cut. Protein and fat content is a tad higher compared to the first vut and fibre level is a little lower.
3rd Cut
Third cut hay is usually very soft and heavy leafy. This hay should be given as a treat or mixed sparingly with 1st or 2nd cut hay if your small animal is picky. If you have a small animal that is underweight or elderly, this would be the ideal hay for them. Protein and fats are higher which can help them gain weight. However, it will be important to watch the poos, since the third cut is low in fibre.
Hay is an important part of small animals such as guinea pigs and rabbits diet. Get quality hay from aPetMart for your furry friends here!
Do you want a pet but are allergic to them? Many people with pet allergies are distraught over the prospect of losing their furry buddies. However, there are ways to control these allergies while keeping your furry friends.
Is It A Pet Allergy?
The first step in combating any allergy is determining the source. Rule out any other possible causes of your allergies, such as dust, pollen, food, medicine, and so on. Cats and dogs with thick, dense coats may hold environmental allergens in their hair. These allergens could be the ones triggering your allergic reaction instead.
Symptoms of Pet Allergies
Itchy, red skin.
Breathing difficulties.
Coughing, sneezing, and wheezing.
Rash across the face, neck, and upper chest.
Eyes and nose swelling, itching, and/or running.
Asthma flare-ups (if you have pre-existing asthma).
Why Do Pet Allergies Make You Sneeze?
If you have pet allergies, it would be ideal to understand what causes your allergies to flare up. The cause of the allergy is the protein found in pets’ saliva, urine, and excrement. These proteins may get onto their fur and skin and accelerate the spreading to humans, while dog dander usually linger for a shorter period of time.
These proteins can linger in your homes. Certain proteins linger longer than others, which is why some pets may affect you more than others. For instance, cat protein can stay up to four months in your home environment. They can get attached to couches, and any sort of cloth surfaces.
Tips for Living with Pets When You are Allergic
#1 Wash Yourself regularly
Cleaning your hands after giving your pet a good belly rub would prevent allergy flare-ups. It can protect you from accidentally rubbing the irritating, burning unpleasant things into your eyes. When you’re outside, pollen and dust settle on your hair, skin, and clothing. Wash yourself and your clothes on a regular basis to remove allergies.
#2 Invest in an Air Purifier
Anyone in your home that suffers from allergies or respiratory problems will benefit from an air purifier. To add on, you should consider purchasing a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) purifier. HEPA filters are intended to remove airborne contaminants from your home’s air. Remember to clean the filter to keep your home’s air quality healthy for both you and your pets. Alternatively, you can change the purifier once in a while.
#3 Ensure Cleanliness in Your Home
Keep your floors clean, especially in the bedroom. Ensuring cleanliness will significantly minimise dust, pollen, dander and other allergens. To add on, you should wash linens such as clothes and bedding regularly.
Not sure which kind of house cleaning tools are suitable for you and your pet? aPetMart got you covered! Check out these house cleaning tools.
#4 Set Boundaries
It is tempting to sleep on your bed with your pets. Despite that, allowing them to snuggle up on your pillow can cause spreading of pollen on your face. Dander will easily rub into your eyes, can be inhaled, and will wreak havoc on your system. Thus, you and your pet will have separate bedrooms. Be sure to wash their bedding on a regular basis as well.
Medical Treatment
Over-the-counter medications are another option for dealing with pet allergies. Nasal steroids are usually the first-line treatment for allergies. They assist with nasal congestion, leaking, and draining.
Other than that, antihistamines are an option too. They are great for alleviating itching and sneezing. Similarly, allergy shots are another helpful option. However, these are not effective for everyone.
Serious allergies could develop which can cause an increase in sinus infections. Moreover, it can aggravate asthma leading to additional upper respiratory infections. Therefore, if you have severe allergic reactions to pets, avoiding contact with any cats or dogs would be recommended.
Dogs and cats love to eat things they shouldn’t. Ingesting foreign objects can be extremely dangerous. Thus, as responsible pet parents, it is our job to know what to do if it happens.
Common Foreign Objects Pets Swallow
Generally any household item within reach of your pet can be easily swallowed. This is especially true if your cat or dog is highly curious or enjoys gnawing on objects.
Dogs are the most likely to consume non-food items in most cases. Cats, on the other hand, have a proclivity to ingest string-like items. This is due to their fascination with ribbons, strings, and other dangly objects.
The following are some of the most common items that pets swallow:
Food waste
Bones
Plastic items
Small toys
Paper
String-like objects
Fabric
Foreign Object Ingestion Symptoms
What happens if your pet ingests a foreign object? Foreign objects frequently obstruct your cat or dog’s gastrointestinal (GI) tract. As a result, if you suspect your cat or dog has swallowed a foreign object, look for the following symptoms:
Diarrhoea
Vomiting
Lethargy
Abdominal pain
Excessive drooling
Choking or gagging
Straining to defecate
Changes in behaviour
Decrease in appetite as well as a refusal to eat
If your pet does not exhibit any of the following symptoms in the next few hours and has not consumed anything dangerous or harmful, they should be fine. However, it is still advisable to contact your veterinarian.
What Happens If My Pet Consumes a Foreign Object?
Different foreign objects can cause different potential effects on their gastrointestinal tract.
#1 Small Objects
Items such as a small piece of plastic from a plastic bag, a small pebble from gravel, or a scrap of paper fall into this category. These items can usually pass through your pet’s GI tract without causing major problems. However, keep in mind that this is dependent on the size of the object in comparison to the size of your pet.
#2 Large Objects
In general, large items are unsafe when swallowed. Either they choke your pet or that they become lodged elsewhere below the GI tract. This prevents food from passing through, resulting in intestinal blockage. Some examples of large items are tennis balls, dog toys, and corn cobs. Additionally, large amounts of toilet paper and silica gel packets can cause dehydration.
#3 Toxic Objects
Batteries and cigarettes are easily lodged and are highly toxic when swallowed. If a battery is chewed or punctured, it can leak caustic substances that can corrode and burn the GI tract. Cigarette consumption can also result in nicotine poisoning in cats and dogs.
#4 String-Like Objects
String-like objects can clog the small intestine. This is because one end of the string can become lodged in the stomach and the other end in the small intestine. When it bunches up, the string can cut into the small intestine, resulting in gastrointestinal perforation.
Here are the most common string-like items ingested:
Rope toys
Hair ties
Ribbons
Dental floss
Socks
Linen
Bedding
Feminine products
#5 Sharp Objects
When ingested, sharper objects are extremely dangerous. They may cut into your pet’s mouth or damage organs as they pass through the GI tract. This can result in gastrointestinal perforation. A hole in the intestines or stomach can cause fatal conditions such as sepsis or peritonitis.
As a result, we must exercise extra caution to keep our pets away from sharp objects including aluminium, sticks, broken pieces of hard plastic toys, rocks, or jewellery. It is also critical not to feed your dog cooked bones, as they can easily splinter.
How Can You Prevent It?
Prevention is always better than treatment. Thus, as a responsible pet owner, you must assist in preventing your pet from ingesting something they should not.
1. Keep rubbish bins out of your pet’s reach.
2. Keep them out of craft rooms, tool boxes or workspaces.
3. Store all strings and yarns in a pet proof container.
4. Clean up all your rubbish immediately.
5. Do not leave your pet unsupervised with their toys/chews.
6. Throw broken toys away immediately.
7. Remove non-pet toys from the floor.
8. For dogs: do not give them cooked bones.
Things to Keep in Mind
Even if you can see something stuck deep in your pet’s throat, do not pull it out (or cut it if it is a string). It is also dangerous to try to induce vomiting in your cat or dog on your own, as this can exacerbate the situation. In such cases, please take your pet to the veterinarian.
However, if your cat or dog is choking, it is critical that you act quickly. If possible, try to remove the object that has become lodged in your mouth or throat. If not, take your pet to an emergency veterinarian right away. Else, you can perform the Heimlich manoeuvre if you know how.
Heimlich Manoeuvre for Cats
Place your cat on the side.
Support your cat’s back with one hand.
Use the other hand to push upwards and inwards just below the ribs.
Finally, look inside their mouth for the displaced object.
Heimlich Manoeuvre for Small Dogs
Place your dog on their back.
Use your palm to apply pressure just below the rib cage, pushing inwards and upwards.
Finally, look inside their mouth for the object that they were choking on.
Learn more about the heimlich manoeuvre for cats and small dogs by ExpertVillage Leaf Group here!
Heimlich Manoeuvre for Large Dogs
If your dog is standing:
Put your arms around the belly so your hands clasp at the abdomen.
Make a fist and push firmly inwards and upwards right beneath the rib cage.
Look inside their mouth for the displaced object.
Finally, lay your dog on their side to rest.
If your dog is lying down:
Place one hand on your dog’s back for support.
Use the other hand to push upwards and forwards (towards the spine) right below the ribcage.
Finally, look inside their mouth for the displaced object.
Learn more about the heimlich manoeuvre for large dogs by HighTechPet here!
Check for a pulse if your pet is still not breathing after it has been removed. If no pulse is detected, begin CPR or artificial respiration immediately while seeking veterinary assistance. The object might have damaged your pet’s throat or mouth in the process. Hence, it is recommended to contact a vet even if the object is removed.
Dental care for dogs is important in keeping them in good health. Thus, it is crucial to keep your dog’s teeth sparkling and disease free. To achieve that, experts recommend a daily cleaning regime with a dog toothbrush and annual professional dental exams.
Looking into A Dog’s Mouth
Just like humans, dogs have bacteria in their mouths. Almost immediately after your dog eats, the combination of bacteria, food and saliva begin forming a sticky film called plaque over their teeth. If we don’t clean it properly, it can develop into a gum disease and cause harm to their health.
Signs of Canine Dental Concerns
Plaque
Red gums
Bad breath
Thick saliva
Facial swelling
Bleeding gums
Dropping food while eating
Blood in water or food bowls
Favouring one side of the mouth
Talking or making noises when a dog eats or yawns
Rubbing the face with the paws or on the floor
How to Help Prevent Dental Disease
A dog’s teeth should be brushed twice to minimise bacteria. There are four steps in preventing painful gum disease in your dog.
Taking your dog to a vet for regular oral exams and cleanings.
Brush your dog’s teeth every day.
Feeding your dog a balanced diet.
Offering safe toys and treats for daily chewing.
Take Your Dog for Regular Oral Exams
During the first dental check up, your vet will do a physical examination of your dog’s mouth. This allows them to understand the condition of the teeth and jaw. Here is what they are looking for:
How the teeth fit together and jaw alignment
Fractured or broken teeth
Plaque buildup on the teeth
Gingivitis or periodontal disease
Tartar buildup on the teeth and along the gum-line
Abscesses or signs of tooth resorption
Bumps or lesions that may indicate a tumour
Any facial swelling
Depending on the results, your veterinarian will develop a plan for your dog. If your dog shows signs of a dental disease, a physical exam may not be enough to tell the extent of the situation. Thus, your canine may be put under general anaesthesia to allow them to perform a complete dental exam which includes x-rays.
Overall, it would be ideal to bring your canine to the dental regularly. Depending on your dog’s age, genetics, diet, and overall health, your vet may advise annual, or twice-yearly dental examinations.
Brush Your Dog’s Teeth Everyday
Brushing your dog’s teeth is important because it cleans away plaque and prevents serious dental problems. Here are a few steps you can follow to make the brushing a calm experience!
#1 Choose a calm time for brushing. Select a time when the environment is quiet and relaxing. Your dog will be able to stay calm and feel less anxious.
#2 Buy a dog toothbrush. Dog toothbrushes are longer and curved which makes it easier to reach their back teeth. Additionally, use toothpaste for dogs because human toothpaste is toxic to canines. You can purchase toothbrush sets from aPetMart!
#3 Touch their teeth or gums with your fingers. Lift up their top lip and hold it while you touch their teeth. Try touching both the top and bottom teeth before moving on.
#4 Introduce the toothpaste to the dog. After your dog is comfortable with you touching their teeth with your fingers, you can introduce toothpaste. Start by showing them the toothpaste and then let them lick it.
#5 Introduce the toothbrush with toothpaste. Once your dog is used to toothpaste, you can try introducing the toothbrush into their mouth. Gently rub against the outside of the teeth in small, slow circles. Make sure to massage the gums as well! The process should be calm and relaxing to avoid anxiety in both you and your canine.
#6 Reward! You can give them a treat after brushing their teeth to make it a positive experience.
Still unsure how to brush your canine’s teeth? Watch this video by the American Veterinary Medical Association to learn more!
Feeding Your Dog a Balanced Diet
Diet plays a part in combating dental disease. A well-balanced and healthy dog food can protect your canine’s whole health, giving it the ability to fight off diseases and aid in healing.
Offer Safe Toys and Treats for Daily Chewing
Chewing on tooth-friendly treats every day can help prevent gum disease in dogs. You can give them chews such as Whimzees Natural Dog Chews to make dental care fun and interactive! Browse on aPetMart for more dental care treats and chews for your canine.
Dental disease affects 50% to 90% of cats over the age of four. Brushing your cat’s teeth regularly is essential to prevent dental diseases. As a responsible feline parent, it is your job to make sure that your kitty receives proper dental care.
Looking into A Cat’s Mouth
Cats are obligate carnivores. Their digestive system is designed to process a high amount of protein. As a result, they have a unique set of teeth designed for ripping and tearing. The unique shape of their teeth allows food to get caught between the teeth and sit along the gum-line. The combination of saliva, food and bacteria creates plaque which can lead to gingivitis.
Signs of Feline Dental Concerns
#1 Ulcers on the gums.
#2 Bleeding or dark red line along the gums.
#3 Excessive drooling or pawing at mouth area.
#4 Difficulty chewing food or refusal to eat.
#5 Bad breath: An unusually strong odour may suggest digestive problems or a dental condition.
#6 Gum inflammation: Swollen gums can lead to gum diseases, tooth loss, inability to eat. Additionally, it can be a sign of kidney disease or feline immunodeficiency virus.
Take your cat to the vet immediately if you notice any of these warning signs!
How to Help Prevent Dental Disease
Regular and consistent dental care is crucial to help prevent dental disease. Here are three important factors in supporting dental health:
Balanced nutrition and diet
Regular professional dental checkups
Correct home dental care routine
Nutrition and Diet
Diet plays a part in combating dental disease. A well-balanced and healthy cat food can protect your feline’s whole health, giving it the ability to fight off diseases and aid in healing.
Dental Checkups
During the first dental check up, your vet will do a physical examination of your cat’s mouth. This allows them to understand the condition of the teeth and jaw. Here is what they are looking for:
How the teeth fit together and jaw alignment
Fractured or broken teeth
Plaque build up on the teeth
Gingivitis or periodontal disease
Tartar buildup on the teeth and along the gumline
Abscesses or signs of tooth resorption
Bumps or lesions that may indicate a tumour
Any facial swelling
Depending on the results, your veterinarian will develop a plan for your cat. If your cat shows signs of a dental disease, a physical exam may not be enough to tell the extent of the situation. Thus, your feline may be put under general anaesthesia to allow them to perform a complete dental exam which includes x-rays.
Overall, it would be ideal to bring your feline to the dental regularly. Depending on your cat’s age, genetics, diet, and overall health, your vet may advise annual, or twice-yearly dental examinations.
A Home Dental Care Routine
To prevent your kitty from developing dental diseases, it is advisable to have a dental care routine which includes brushing their teeth and providing them with dental treats.
Brushing Your Cat’s Teeth
Brushing your cat’s teeth is the most crucial preventative oral care step. You should brush their teeth at least three times per week. It is important to start young as it makes it easier as they grow older.
Start Slow: You can start by getting your cat used to you messing with their face and mouth. Start with gently rubbing around their mouth. If your cat is comfortable with it, try slipping your finger in between their lips and massage or touch their gums. Once your cat is comfortable with it, you can try rubbing over their teeth as well.
Add Flavour: Cat’s toothpaste comes with different flavours like chicken or fish. Add a bit on your finger or toothbrush to allow your cat to smell and lick it. If they like it, you can rub it gently on the outside of the teeth.
Using the Brush: Cats like to chew on bristles, so offer it with or without the toothpaste to let your cat get used to the texture. The act of chewing the bristles can actually scrape some plaque off the teeth. Once your cat is used to it, you can try introducing the toothbrush into their mouth. Gently rub against the outside of the teeth in small, slow circles. Make sure to massage the gums as well! The process should be calm and relaxing to avoid anxiety in both you and your cat.
Still unsure how to brush your feline’s teeth? Watch this video by the American Veterinary Medical Association to learn more!
Dental Products for Cats
If your cat does not enjoy the tooth brush, alternative dental products can meet their dental care needs between dental cleanings. The Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) provides a comprehensive list of approved dental products for your cat. You can consider treats such as Catwant Matatabi Stick Cat Treats to help improve dental hygiene while keeping them engaged.
Raw food diets for dogs are becoming increasingly popular. People who choose to feed a raw diet believe that it is more natural than most commercial canine diets. However, is a raw food diet actually good for your dog?
Racing hounds and sled dogs have been feeding on raw diets since decades ago. The concept of Bones and Raw food, or Biologically Appropriate Raw Food (BARF diet) for companion pets has been introduced and popularised by Australian veterinarian Ian BIllinghurst in the 1990s.
To start off, dogs are omnivores who need to consume a balanced diet of plants and meat to stay healthy. Thus, a raw dog food diet should consist of a combination of raw meat, bones, raw eggs, dairy products, fruits and vegetables.
What are The Benefits Of A Raw Dog Food Diet?
Strengthened Immune System
BARF diet largely mimics what canine ancestors would feed on in the wild environment. A complete and balanced diet is important to help your dog’s immune system to thrive. A raw dog food diet can often fulfil this if prepared and fed properly.
Improved Skin and Shiner Coat
Raw diets usually contain many ingredients that support skin and coat health. One of the most significant ingredients is omega-3 fatty acids. Healthy omega-3 fatty acids play a huge role in supporting healthy skin. Additionally, it provides anti-inflammatory benefits. Perfect for dogs with inflammatory skin diseases or allergies.
Predominant Bone and Joint Health
Real bone is a natural source of calcium which is good for maintaining great joint and bone health for your dogs. On top of that, it can promote health growth in puppies.
Improve Dental Health
Poor dental hygiene can be caused by a poor diet, especially one with high carbohydrates or is heavily processed. Raw, meaty bones are nature’s toothbrush for your canine. It can help get into tricky areas between their teeth and assist with the removal of plaque.
Reduced Stool Volume and Odour
Raw food diet is highly digestible as it does not contain ingredients that are difficult for dogs to digest. Hence, more is absorbed and less comes out of the other end. Without carbohydrates such as soy and potato, stool produced by your canine will be a smaller amount with lighter odour.
When is A Raw Diet Not Suitable?
#1 If your dog has kidney or liver failure. As raw diets are usually higher in protein, it is not advisable for pups with kidney or liver failure.
#2 If your dog has pancreatitis or other digestive issues. You can start them with a cooked and homemade diet to clear those problems before switching to raw.
#3 Dogs with cancer or immunosuppressive diseases. Dogs with cancer are at higher risk for food-borne illnesses, and may not digest raw vegetables.
#4 When you are unable to prepare complete, balanced and safe meals for your dog, a homemade raw diet is not for your dog. A raw food diet is not just feeding canines with a wide variety of raw meats. You have to take calorie, fat, protein and nutrition content into consideration. An incomplete diet can lead to serious health problems for a pup.
What are The Potential Risks of A Raw Dog Food Diet?
#1 If a pup is not fed properly, they can be in danger of an unbalanced diet. An unbalanced diet may damage the health of dogs if given for an extended period.
#2 Receiving too much Vitamin A by eating too much liver which can lead to Vitamin A toxicity.
#3 Chance for whole bones to choke the dog, break teeth, or cause an internal puncture.
#4 The biggest risk of a raw food diet for cats is bacteria. However, you can limit this risk by following safe meat handling procedures. Learn proper meat handling procedures here! Purchase raw meat only from reputable sources like the supermarket. If you are not using the raw meat immediately, freeze it in meal-sized portions.
No time to prepare, but still wanna try a raw diet for your dog?
If you have no time to prepare a complete & balanced raw diet at home for your dog, but still want to provide your dogs with the benefits from raw food, consider the freeze-dried raw dog food from aPetMart. Raw food at your fingertips by just adding water or broth. In addition, freeze dried or air dried raw treats are great snacks to introduce raw food to your dog.
In recent years, there has been a rise in raw food diets for cats and dogs. Some cat parents choose to prepare raw food for cats at home so that they don’t have to worry about undesirable ingredients found in commercial products, while others opt for off-the-shelf raw food for the convenience. However, is raw food good for cats?
What is a Raw Diet for Cats?
A raw diet includes feeding your cat uncooked animal products such as muscle meat and organ meat. Raw food diets are also known as the “BARF” diet, which stands for “bones and raw food” or “biologically-appropriate raw food”.
Felines that consume an imbalanced diet are at risk of a variety of health issues. If you choose to prepare your cat a raw diet at home, it is recommended to consult a veterinary nutritionist for a complete and balanced menu for your cat.
What are the Benefits of Raw Food Diets?
iPetCompanion
To start off, cats are obligate carnivores. Felines solely rely on nutrients found in animal meats to survive. In fact, they can only tolerate a small amount of plant matter in their diet. A high-protein & moistrous diet that mimics that is found in small prey in the wild is beneficial to cats.
Biologically-appropriate Diet
Advocates of raw diets believe that the cooking process denatures most of the crucial proteins in the food. Hence, cooked food including kibbles and canned food, deviates from what cats are feeding in the wild. On the contrary, raw food is favoured by supporters for a biologically-appropriate diet as it more closely mimics what a cat would find in nature.
Raw Food Diets Makes Cats Less Hungry
The protein in raw meat can be very filling for your cat. Thus, making your felines more satisfied with their meals. This is great as it can prevent obesity in your cat.
Improved Digestion
Cat’s digestive system does not have the enzyme to digest carbohydrates. Therefore, it is harder for cats to digest plant-based diets. A raw food diet only contains meat which means it would be easier for them to break down the food.
Increases Energy
Many people who switched to raw cat food have noticed a higher level of energy in their cats. Felines utilise protein for their energy requirements. Through a well-balanced and appropriate raw food diet, they are getting more energy from their food.
Better Dental Health
When your cat chews on raw foods, it helps keep their teeth clean. Additionally, carbohydrates create a starchy film which can cause plaque buildup. Hence, eliminating it can prevent your cat from having gum diseases.
Better Urinary Health
Carbohydrate laden foods can cause alkaline urine and chronic dehydration in cats. This can cause urinary tract inflammation. A raw cat food diet contains more moisture which can prevent urinary tract problems.
When is A Raw Diet Not Suitable?
#1 When you are unable to prepare complete, balanced and safe meals for your cat, a homemade raw diet is not for your cat. A raw food diet is not just feeding cats with a wide variety of raw meats. You have to take calorie, fat, protein and nutrition content into consideration. An incomplete diet can lead to serious health problems for a feline.
#2 If your cat is a picky eater, it may be difficult to introduce raw foods to them. Some felines have strict preferences for certain food textures and smells. For these cats, transitioning to a raw food diet can take a lot of effort.
What are the Risks of Raw Food Diets?
The biggest risk of a raw food diet for cats is bacteria. However, you can limit this risk by following safe meat handling procedures. Learn proper meat handling procedures here! Purchase raw meat only from reputable sources like the supermarket. If you are not using the raw meat immediately, freeze it in meal-sized portions.
No time to prepare, but still wanna try a raw diet for your cat?
If you have no time to prepare a complete & balanced raw diet at home for your cat, but still want to provide your cats with the benefits from raw food, consider the freeze-dried raw cat food from aPetMart. Raw food at your fingertips by just adding water or broth. In addition, freeze dried or air dried raw treats are great snacks to introduce raw food to your cat.
Grain-free dog food has become widely available in the market. Some believe that a grain-free diet is healthier than traditional dog food, while some state that it could cause potential harm than good. If you have ever wondered if a grain-free diet is for your dog, this blog post is for you.
Many people are under the impression that dogs are carnivores. However, in fact, dogs are omnivores who need to consume a balanced diet of plants and meat to stay healthy.
Advantages of Grain-free Dog Food
Easily Digestible
Dogs are unable to digest some grains, such as corn if they lack amylase enzymes. Amylase is crucial when it comes to breaking down starch and carbohydrates. Thus, they might suffer from gastrointestinal problems if they do not have adequate amylase enzymes. In this case, you might want to consider feeding your dog grain-free foods.
It is Less Allergenic
Some dogs can be allergic to grains. Thus, a grain-free diet can prevent food allergies. Food allergies can cause intestinal problems to dogs. If your dog is known for food intolerance, you can try to start them on a grain-free diet.
Beneficial for Dogs with Diabetes and Cancer
Carbohydrates lead to increased blood sugar levels. Among other things, this can lead to weight issues which can put their lives at risk. A grain-free diet which is lower in carbohydrates is ideal for dogs with diabetes and cancer.
It Supports a Healthy Coat and Skin
The natural oils that a dog’s skin produces are essential to keep their fur healthy. These oils spread from the skin up to the rest of the follicle. It protects the hair and strengthens it. Their skin needs aid to produce the best oils. Getting the right kinds of oils in their diet can help them produce the best oils. For instance, Omega-3 fatty acids are perfect. It is available in greater supply in grain-free food which usually contains more animal fats.
When a Grain-Food Diet is Not for Your Dog
Not Ideal for Less Active Dogs
Grain-free dog food can help boost activity levels of a canine. If your dog is a senior, it is not recommended to put them on a grain-free diet because they do not require that kind of energy provided. Grain-free diets which contain significant amounts of proteins can make older or less active dogs overweight. Alternatively, you can select the healthy weight version or senior version of a grain-free diet.
Challenging for Picky Eaters
Sometimes your dog may not like grain-free foods. Therefore, if your dog has been on a grain-based diet, they might take some time to get used to grain-free foods. Do take note that, if they keep avoiding it, then you should consider feeding them the foods they enjoy.
Do you want to learn more about grain-free dog food? Watch this informative video by The Tattooed Dog Trainer to learn more!
Grain-free diet is among the many options that cat owners have when it comes to selecting their pets’ meals. In recent times, the benefits of grain-free pet food has become prominent. What are the benefits of providing a grain-free diet to your pet?
To start off, cats are obligate carnivores. Thus, they must have meat in their diet as they need proteins.
One of the main health benefits of a grain-free diet is the reliance on protein. Cats benefit from a diet that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates. In fact, high consumption of carbohydrates can be harmful to your feline’s health.
It can be tricky when buying healthy grain-free pet food. Not all grain-free pet food meets the needs of our cat. A good grain-free food must check these factors. It should provide all the nutrition your feline needs such as:
High Protein Levels
Vitamins and Minerals
Absolutely no carb replacement added
Advantages of a Grain-Free Diet
Grain-free Diet is Closer to What They Eat in the Wild
In grain-free food for cats, the amount of protein is similar to foods like fish and meat. Some manufacturers substitute it with carbohydrates like potato and tapioca. This maintains the carbohydrate level in the food but removes harmful effects caused by grains. Generally, the formula is healthier for your feline.
Limit Allergies
Some cats can develop an allergy to grains. Thus, having a grain-free diet can eliminate sensitivity to those ingredients.
Below symptoms in your feline may indicate an allergic reaction.
Diarrhoea
Constipation
Excessive gas
Skin rash
Frequent infections
Vomiting
Shiny and Lustrous Looking Coat
A grain-free diet can help your cat produce better oils on their skin. In grain-free foods, they are higher in fatty acids such as Omega-3. These fatty acids are crucial in producing oils to make their fur shiny and lustrous.
Settled and Easier Digestion
Cats are obligate carnivores which means that they are unable to digest vegetation. Their digestive enzymes are designed to break down meat. Thus, a grain-free diet will be easier for them to digest.
When a Grain-free Diet is Not for Your Cat
When Your Cat is Overweight
Some grain-free foods are higher in fat and/or calories. Thus, they may not be suitable for a cat that is overweight. If you do want to have your cat on a grain-free diet, you have to make sure to feed them the appropriate portion size, and choose the indoor/healthy weight version if possible.
Grain-free Foods are More Expensive
As grain-free foods contain more protein, they are likely more expensive. However, you will likely be feeding your feline a smaller portion because of the high protein, so this might make up for the price difference.
Do you want to learn more about grain-free pet food? Watch this informative video by Rodney Habib to learn more!
Has your cat behaved in a way that is beyond your comprehension, such as sitting in a box, or eating non-food items? Read the post below to understand your cat better.
Sitting on Anything that Fits
The ability of a cat being able to fit themselves into tight spaces will never cease to amaze us. Why would they choose to do that when there are comfy places they could rest instead? Well, small spaces make them feel safe and secure. If they were out in the wild, they would not want to be unprotected in an open area because it would make them more vulnerable to predators.
Additionally, cats have a natural instinct to ambush. Hiding in small tiny spaces allow them to watch and observe their surroundings from a distance.
Rubbing
Southern Living
Rubbing is more than just showing affection and saying hello. Your kitty is actually doing something called “bunting”. Pheromones are being released from your feline’s head. It is their way of showing ownership over you, just like them rubbing on furniture to leave their scent to mark territory. Basically, your kitty is showing pride in that you are theirs.
Eating Non-Food Items
The Spruce Pets
If your cat enjoys chewing on non-food items like wood, cloth, plastic, metal or plants, this could be a sign of pica. Pica is a rare condition in cats that could be caused by mineral deficiencies, anaemia, genetics, boredom and stress.
Bringing You “Gifts”
Daily Paws
Although this behaviour may seem like a gross one, your cat is actually acknowledging you as a member of their group. They are sharing their hunting success with you and could be thanking you for taking care of them.
Midnight Cat Calls
Catwatch Newsletter
Have you ever been woken up by the sound of your cat barreling down the hallway in the middle of the night? Most domestic cats have a huge amount of energy pent up during the day which needs to be released. Combining this with their nocturnal instincts to hunt during the night may cause you plenty of sleepless nights.
We suggest regular exercise for your cat during the day to avoid random sprints in the middle of the night. Besides that, you can try providing them with food puzzles, to restrict their desire to hunt at night.
Do take note that if your excessively vocal cat is a senior, it could denote a serious but treatable condition. Book an appointment with a vet if this is the case.
Urinating Outside of the Litter Box
Gadget Flow
Commonly known as inappropriate elimination. Understanding the underlying causes of this condition can help ease the frustration. Inappropriate elimination can be caused by medical or behavioural issues.
Medical causes:
Bladder and urinary tract conditions
Cystitis
Infection
Bladder stones
Urethral obstruction
Colitis, constipation or anal sac disease
Pain or discomfort, including arthritis, or other conditions affecting the nerves, muscles or joints
Behavioural causes:
Stress or anxiety due to other pets or changes in the household such as
Moving
The birth of a child
Visitors
Box, litter, location and maintenance preferences
If your cat is urinating outside of the litter box, visit a veterinarian to find the cause.
Chattering
Have you heard your cat emit a fast and intense teeth chatter? Chattering is especially let out when they spot a bird while gazing out of a window. Animal behaviourists say that this is caused by your cat being frustrated that they cannot go outside to hunt prey. Some may say that it allows your kitty’s muscles to prepare for the act of killing a prey. Nevertheless, chattering is a completely normal behaviour for your feline.
Kneading
AAHA
Kneading is when your cat presses his paws and massages back and forth. The reason why they do this traces back to their earliest day of nursing. By pressing their paws on the mother’s mammary glands, it encourages better milk production. If your adult cat does this, it can mean two things. One, he is content and showing that he is happy. Two, he is trying to alleviate stress and this calms him down.
Ear Twitching
Senior Cat Wellness
Do you see your kitty’s ears twitching back and forth? This is one way that they express anxiety or agitation. Although if their ears are slightly pointed upright, this means that they are alert and listening to their surroundings.
Cat Eyes
One moment your cat’s eyes are glued on you, the next they seem like they want nothing to do with you. Why?
When your cat is staring them down. They are trying to get your attention. However, if their stare is intense, this could mean that they are on high alert about someone or a situation. It would be best to not look them directly in the eyes because they see this as an act of aggression.
Do you notice your cat slowly blinking at you? Animal behaviourists call this act “kitty kisses.” This is their way of showing affection and telling you that they trust you. If you blink slowly back at them, they will most likely continue to blow “kitty kisses” your way!
Sometimes if you cannot get them to look at you, it could mean that they want some alone time. When that happens, give them space and this will strengthen their respect for you. Feel intrigued by what your cat does? Read our editorial on feline body language to understand your cat better.
Guinea pigs make lots of different noises and they can mean different things. They communicate by using sounds and posture just like capybaras. You may not understand all these noises, but their body language can help you interpret them.
Different Guinea Pig Sounds
Guinea pigs make a variety of sounds. Some sounds are to express their contentment while some are to show aggression. As a piggy parent, it is important for us to identify their sounds and understand what they are trying to tell us.
Wheeking
A distinctive and common vocalisation made by piggies. Wheeking sounds like a long and loud whistle. It is often used to communicate excitement or anticipation. For instance, when you open the fridge or get out the food container. Guinea pigs frequently wheek when they are being made when they are about to be fed. Additionally, wheeking can serve as a call for attention.
Purring
When a guinea pig purr, they can mean different things. Look at their body language and pitch of the sound. If they let out a deep purring sound along with a relaxed and calm posture, they feel contented and comfortable. However, if the purr is high pitched, it means that they are expressing annoyance. When making this sound they may appear tense and even vibrate. In addition, a short purr can indicate fear or uncertainty. It is usually accompanied by them remaining motionless.
Whining
When guinea pigs make a whining or moaning type of squeak, it means that they dislike something you or another piggy is doing.
Rumbling
Rumbling, also known as “motorboating” or “rumble strutting”. A rumble is deeper than a purring sound. You can hear it when a male romances a female. This is frequently accompanied by a sort of “mating dance”.
Teeth Chattering
Teeth chattering is an aggressive vocalisation which is a sign of an angry piggy. In many instances, it is accompanied by the guinea pig showing their teeth which means “back off” or “stay away”.
Hissing
Similar to teeth chattering, hissing is a sign of agitation. It sounds like the hissing noise that a cat makes.
Chirping
This sounds like a bird chirping! It is the least heard noise by a guinea pig, so it is the least understood. They may appear in a trance-like state. Although it is unclear why guinea pigs make this sound, it is thought that it indicates fear.
Are you still unsure about the sounds made by guinea pigs? Check out this video by Little Adventures to learn more!
Guinea pigs can communicate via their body language. Thus, it is good to understand what are the normal movements made by them so that you can identify changes in them.
Popcorning:
Reddit
The reason why it is called popcorn is because it looks similar to popcorn when it is popping. Popcorning consists of hopping straight up in the air, sometimes repeatedly. It is frequently seen in young guinea pigs who are especially happy, excited or feeling playful. Older piggies do popcorn as well, but they don’t jump as high as younger piggies.
Freezing:
Burgess Pet Care
Guinea pigs usually exhibit this body posture when they are startled or uncertain. They will stand motionless as there is something in its environment that scares them.
Touching Noses:
Guinea Pig 101
It is a friendly greeting between guinea pigs.
Licking:
YouTube Devjit Paul
Licking can be a sign of affection. Although, it is possible that they like the taste of the salt on your skin.
Fidgeting while being held:
It can often mean that they need to use the bathroom or that they are tired of being held. Try to return your guinea pig to their cage for a bit.
Aggressive Actions:
Here are some aggressive actions that your piggy can display:
Raising their heads
Rising up on their hind ends with stiff legs
Shuffling side to side on stiff legs
Fluffing out their fur
Showing their teeth
These actions are usually accompanied by hissing or teeth chattering. If your guinea pigs do this with each other, they could be starting a fight.
Strutting:
Strutting around another piggy while rumbling is a typical mating dance.
Tossing Head in the Air:
When a guinea pig is annoyed with being petted, they will toss their head back. It is a way of them asking you to stop.
Mounting:
Mounting can be a sexual behaviour from males to females or a behaviour to show dominance, especially between females.
Sniffing:
Sniffing is a guinea pig’s way to check out what is going on around them and to get to know others. They usually like to sniff each other around the nose, chin and ears.
Scent Marking:
Piggies will rub their chins, cheeks and hind ends on items they want to mark as theirs. Additionally, they might urinate on things or other piggies to show their dominance.
Running Away From Being Picked Up:
Guinea pigs tend to be timid and running away from you is a natural defence mechanism. Given time and patience, almost all guinea pigs will come to accept being picked up. They will also come to enjoy cuddles and playtime outside of the cage.
When your cat is under the weather, it can’t exactly ask for a pain reliever to help them feel better. If your cat is running a fever, it may indicate an underlying health problem that may require urgent treatment. Hence, it is important for us to identify the symptoms and the treatment related to your cat’s fever.
How do you know if they have a fever?
The normal temperature in cats ranges from 38.3 to 39.2°C. Any temperature above 39.2°C can be considered as a fever in cats. Even though fevers can be helpful in fighting infections, a fever above 40°C can be damaging to organs.
Here are some methods you can use to check your cat’s temperature without a thermometer.
#1 Examine Their Nose
Your pet’s nose should be the first area to examine when checking whether they have a fever. Cats, like dogs, should have a moist nose all the time. However, if your cat is sick, their nose will be dry and warm.
#2 Check Whether They Have Hot Ears
Using your fingertips, feel their ears. It will be significantly hotter if they have a fever. To be more precise, place your lips on the tip of your cat’s ears. Gently place the top 1/2 inch of their ear between your lips. Your lips are more sensitive compared to your hands so they will be able to detect temperature variation more easily.
#3 Check Their Breathing
Pay attention to your cat’s respiration. Cats may pant or breathe faster when they have a higher temperature. You might notice heightened heartbeats and accelerated breathing when they have a temperature.
#4 Changes in the frequency of them ‘Speaking’
Some cats may be naturally quiet while some are ‘noisy’. Nevertheless, cats like to express themselves through various sounds. However, when they have a fever, they may become extremely silent. Conversely, some may spend hours meowing and shouting continuously. If you notice any changes in your cat’s ‘speaking’ behaviours, they may have a fever.
#5 They have a Lower Activity Level
Although cats enjoy sleeping for several hours each day, they are generally awake at specific times of the day. Nonetheless, if they have a fever, they will remain in bed with no desire to move a single muscle. You can test them by showing their favourite toy or treats. If they do not make an effort to capture it, they might have a fever.
#6 Hiding
In general, cats prefer to stay in quiet locations such as behind a bed or a table. If they have a fever they would want to visit those areas more. If you notice your cat hiding in places and avoiding human interactions persistently, they may have a fever.
#7 They Do Not Want to Eat Anything
Observing the amount of food left in their dish throughout the day, you can detect whether they lost their appetite. A sick cat will reject even their favourite food. Importantly, check whether they are drinking water. They must be hydrated, even more so if they have a fever. If you notice that they are not drinking water, make an effort to encourage them to drink some.
If you are still confused as to how to check whether your cat has a fever, you can watch this video by Dr. Jones from Veterinary Secrets to understand better.
An increase in body temperature above normal is known as hyperthermia. It develops when the set point is increased in the hypothalamus, a part of the brain that acts as the body’s thermostat. A fever usually results when the immune system is activated by circumstances like
Viral illnesses
Bacteria illnesses
Tumours
Fungal illnesses
Injury from trauma
Certain medications
How to Care for a Cat with a Fever
If you have discovered that your cat has a fever, you should take care of them right away and look for a remedy. Here are some important things to take note when caring for your cat with a fever.
Your cat may get dehydrated. Hence, offer them some water. They might not want to drink it but it is important to make sure they get hydrated.
Allow your cat to relax so that they have energy to tackle whatever that is making them sick.
Self-medicating is never a good idea. Do not feed human medicine to your cats. Not all medication can help your cat and can even be harmful to them. If you want to treat the fever with medication, it is best to bring them to a vet.
If your cat has a temperature of more than 40°C or has had a fever for more than 24 hours, you should see a veterinarian right away.
There are plants that are extremely poisonous and can cause serious problems to your dog. Some common houseplants that seem to be harmless to you can lead to life threatening conditions in your dogs.
Sago Palm
HGTV
A sago palm looks like a miniature palm tree that can live indoors or outdoors. Sago palms are not only dangerous to dogs, it can be harmful to all pets. Those symptoms include vomiting, diarrhoea, seizures, liver failure and potentially death. The whole plant is toxic to pups, but the seeds contain the largest amount of toxins.
If you like sago palms, try a Boston fern instead. Known as the sword fern, it has similar aesthetics as the sago palm.
Tulips
Many people like having tulips in their home as they come in different colours. If your dog nibbles on the leaves, they could get an upset stomach. However, if your dog digs up and eats the newly-planted bulbs, there could be real danger. Newly-planted bulbs have the most toxins which can cause intense stomach upset, depression and loss of appetite.
If you like tulips, you can opt for peonies! They are colourful and vibrant just like tulips.
Lily of the Valley
Lilies are sweet-smelling and adorable. However, do not be fooled by their cute and harmless exterior, they are extremely poisonous to dogs. A small exposure to any part of the plant can cause heart problems for dogs. Eating a few leaves or bulbs can make your pup throw up. Additionally, it can cause low blood pressure, disorientation, seizure or even a coma.
If you like lilies, try a Christmas cactus instead. Christmas cactus enjoy humid conditions and are adorable like lilies!
Oleander
Every inch of this plant is poisonous to dogs. Similar to lilies, oleander can cause irregular heart rate and heart rhythm. You may see other symptoms like diarrhoea, stomach pain, drooling and it can be fatal.
If you like oleander, you may want to consider lemon bottlebrush. They provide a similar colour aesthetic!
Philodendrons
Philodendrons have heart-shaped leaves and long vines. They are dangerous and can irritate your dog’s mouth and lips. If your dog ingested some of these leaves, they probably will be pawing their mouths or drooling and retching.
If you like philodendrons, you might want to consider a million heart plants. They are pet friendly and shaped like a heart as well!
Rhododendron
myGarden.com
They are also known as Azaleas. All parts of these pink beauties are poisonous to your pup. Depending on how much they have eaten, the most common sign would be an upset stomach. However, they can have a range of symptoms including feeling weak, tremors, suffer from low blood pressure and irregular heart rate.
If you like rhododendrons, you can consider pink orchids! They provide the same pop of pink without harming our precious pup.
Dieffenbachia
As known as the Dumb Cane, they are poisonous to dogs. If your dogs nibble on the leaves, they will feel a burning sensation on their mouth, tongue and lips. In a worse-case scenario, your dog may drool a lot and vomit, or even have a hard time breathing.
If you like the dieffenbachia, you can consider the prayer plant. Prayer plants look similar and are not toxic to your dog.
Japanese Yews
The Spruce
They are also known as Buddhist pine or Southern yew. Although the berries are not toxic to dogs, the leaves, seeds and bark are! Ingesting them can cause vomiting, lethargy, wobbly gait, heart and blood pressure changes. An early warning sign could be seizures and muscle tremors.
Cyclamen
Cyclamen is a popular houseplant due to their intense pink shade. Your pup is likely to experience drooling, vomiting and have diarrhoea, if cyclamen is ingested. Additionally, if they dig up the plant and gobble up the root, it can affect their heart rate and can even cause death.
If you like cyclamen, you can consider roses! Pink roses can provide the same pop of pink and are safe for pups.
Autumn Crocus
If your dog ingest even a small bit of an Autumn Crocus, they may start to vomit and have diarrhoea. Toxins found in Autumn crocus can have long-lasting effects such as suppressing bone marrow and causing liver failure.
If you like Autumn Crocuses, you can considerAfrican Violets. They provide the same purple hue and are pet friendly!
What should you do if your pup nibbles on a dangerous plant?
If you think that your dog has ingested a potentially toxic plant, you should take a photo of the plant and head down to a veterinarian. It is important to get them checked early to prevent any further damage done to them!
Do you have a cat? Read this to find out plants that are toxic to cats.
Birds are sociable little creatures. They thrive on company and frequent interaction. Many species of birds are fun and engaging as pets. If you are considering getting a bird, you will need to prepare basic care items such as good housing and nutritious food.
Enclosure
Northern Parrots
Birds thrive in large cages, so try to purchase the largest cage your house can accommodate. A general rule is that the width of the cage should be at least twice the wingspan of the bird.
Here are some standard requirements:
Cage bars should not be too small. Your bird’s talons may get caught on them. Correspondingly, the bars should not be too large. Your bird’s cage may get trapped or they can squeeze through and escape.
The larger the cage the better. Larger bird cages may be harder to clean and are more expensive. However, if you are not in the house often or do not have the time to take your bird out for exercise, a bigger cage is essential. It is important to note that small cages can lead to behaviour problems.
Choosing the Right Cage Shape
Try to opt for a rectangular cage for your bird. Circle cages can be bad for your bird as there is barely any space for the bird. Furthermore, there are no corners for them to feel safe in. Circle cages tend to cause the bird to twist their head which can cause behavioural problems.
Ensuring Enough Space is Provided
If you are housing more than one bird, ensure that they have adequate space. Never house more than one bird in a small cage. They need space to retreat, fly and to be apart from other birds. Thus, the more birds being kept, the larger the cage must be.
Placing the Cage in the Right Location
Your bird’s cage should be kept indoors and in a room with frequent traffic. Birds are social animals and will become depressed if isolated.
Hanging cages can be transported outdoors and hung at bird-singing corners. It is important to remember to bring the bird back before cool evening breezes and night air arrive.
Location of your bird’s cage will be affected by their personalities. A very scalable bird might love being the centre of attention, so you might want to place them in an area with constant human traffic. However, a nervous bird might be happier in a quieter area such as in the corner of a room.
Refrain from placing your bird in front of a window permanently. Your bird will constantly be on the lookout for ‘enemies’ which can cause them to feel nervous. Putting their cage against a wall can give them a break from worrying about it.
Cleaning of the Cage
Clean your bird’s cage on a daily basis as it can reduce the risks of bacterial, fungal or viral infections. A bird that lives in a clean environment tends to be more active and happy.
Change the bedding daily.
Remove uneaten food at the end of the day.
Clean with basic and non-toxic cleaning supplies. Ensure that a product is safe for birds before usage as birds are easily poisoned.
Bird Cage Bedding
Place some old newspapers or magazine papers on the bottom of the cage. These papers can be disposed of with ease which makes cleaning easier. If you prefer other bedding, you can line the bottom of the cage with wood chips, kitty litter or sand.
Diet
You should provide your bird with a variety of food on a daily basis. A healthy diet for most bird breeds consists of 75% pellets and 25% human food. Precise dietary requirements are dependent on the species.
You can consult with an avian veterinarian to understand more about the types of food your breed needs. An amazing veterinary for avian and exotic animals would be Beecroft. Ensure that you are providing the correct feed for the species of bird. Some birds can be picky and others have a very strict dietary requirement. Thus, it is important to get the correct feed.
Feed your bird regularly at about the same time each day so that your bird knows when to expect its food. Smaller birds with higher metabolism may need to be fed more frequently. In addition to that, you can make feed more interesting and enjoyable. For instance, you can ask your bird to sing or talk for its food.
Providing Vegetables and Fruits
Give them fresh fruits and vegetables every day as it adds variety to their diet. A mixture of foods is both fun and healthy for birds. You can provide them with a variety of fruits and veggies such as oranges, berries, spinach and celery.
Fresh Water
There should be fresh water provided constantly. Fill the water dish with average temperature water. Remember to give your bird a large and shallow dish as they can struggle drinking out of deep dishes.
You can put the water dish at the opposite end of the bird’s cage from the food dish. Allowing them to move around and be active while eating and drinking.
Dehydration can occur in birds within one to two days without access to water.
Keep the Food and Water Sanitary
Food and water dishes should be located up high to avoid bird faeces from dropping into their food. Remember to clean your bird’s food and water dishes daily.
Toys and Socialising
Pet Keen
You need to provide at least four toys that are varied and interesting. Place their toys in multiple places around the cage as it will allow them to move around and help satisfy your bird’s foraging instinct. Ensure that these toys are bird-safe. For instance, bells are great bird toys. Here are a list of toys that can be unsafe for birds:
Frayed ropes
Wire
“Jingle-bell” types of bells
Hold and pet your bird regularly as they crave socialisation with humans. They can become bored, lonely and unhealthy if they are left in their cage all day. Play with your bird every day to ensure that they get their daily exercise.
Taking Care of Your Bird’s Health
It is important to bring your bird to the vet for a regular checkup to ensure that your bird is healthy.
Additionally, you should provide a large container for self-cleansing. Birds are capable of handling their own grooming and will clean themselves in the container. In Singapore, the weather is usually warm. You can squirt your bird with water from a spray bottle as they love the cooling sensation.
Cats are becoming very popular as domestic pets. The best thing about owning a cat is that they are low maintenance. On top of that, they are adorable and amusing to watch. So what are the popular cat breeds in Singapore?
The British Shorthair likes to be around people, so they like to be near their owners. They tend to be couch potatoes but can be playful at times. For that reason, they are the perfect cat for people who enjoy a chill afternoon on the couch watching Netflix!
Here are some interesting facts about the British Shorthair!
1. They descended from the cats of ancient Rome. The British Shorthair cat is one of the oldest cat breeds in the world.
2. British Shorthair nearly went extinct! During World Wars I and II, cat fanciers stopped breeding them and they nearly went extinct.
3. Not all British Shorthairs are GREY. Those with silvery grey coats and copper eyes are British Blues. British Shorthairs come in many different colours such as white, black. red, gold and silver. There are some British Shorthairs with colour-point, tortoiseshell, bicolour and patterns.
The Russian Blue may appear to be quiet and reserved, but they are quite playful after gaining their trust. They are one of the first cats to appear in cat shows.
Here are some interesting facts about the Russian Blue!
1. Russian Blue cats appear to have sparkly coats. They have short, double-layered coats. The under coat is soft and feathery while the outer coat is more dense and is flecked with shiny silver hairs.
2. These cats are born with yellow eyes, but will have emerald green eyes once fully grown. Most cats are born with light blue eyes which will darken as they age, but Russian Blues are born with yellow eyes! Around four months old, they will develop gorgeous emerald eyes.
3. They are known for their loving nature. Russian Blue cats are one-person cats, meaning they will only be deeply bonded to one person. However, this does not mean that they are only suitable to live with one person. They do enjoy living with families and can even be happy with other pets.
Siberian cats have long, lustrous, thick coats. Not only are they intelligent and strong, but also gentle and affectionate. They are also big in size, and can weigh up to 12 kilograms.
Here are some interesting facts about the Siberian!
1. Siberian is the first Russian breed. They were officially recognized as a breed in the 1980s in the Soviet Union. Recognized internationally in 1992, becoming the first Russian breed registered by international organisations.
2. They weigh as much as two normal cats. A Siberian cat will need more space for their enormous paws and tails. A female adult Siberians weighs about five to six kg while males can weigh from 10 to 12 kg.
3. They like kids! Siberian cats do understand family ties. Siberian father cats will take care of the kittens like a mother does. They like human children and will protect them as their own.
Munchkins have short legs and are sometimes known as the cat equivalent of a Corgi. They are especially popular among Japanese people due to its ” 可愛い チビ (kawaii chibi)” appearance. These cats are generally playful, friendly and fond of human interactions.
Here are some interesting facts about the “Kawaii Chibi”!
1. They are fast and furious despite their short legs. Munchkins have a lot of energy which increases their speed and agility. These cats can turn corners like a furry race car.
2. Munchkins are sociable and love cuddles. Munchkins crave company from anyone. They will never refuse a warm lap for cuddling. They enjoy cuddling up next to someone who can protect them and make them feel warm and safe while sleeping.
3. These cats are curious creatures. Munchkin cats are known to be very social and have lots of curiosity. Unlike other cat breeds, they do not creep in so quickly to satisfy their curiosity. Instead they will sit on their hind legs and stretch up to see what caught their attention.
Siamese cats are one of the oldest and most popular breeds of cats. They are intelligent, talkative and gentle. Their coat colouring is determined by their genetics and the temperature of the surroundings.
Here are some interesting facts about the Siamese!
1. Siamese cats had crossed eyes and crooked tails. Many Siamese cats once had kinked tails and crossed eyes. Cat fanciers viewed these traits as undesirable. Thus, they gradually eliminated them through selective breeding.
2. Their tips also vary in colour. Those colours can range from blue, chocolate to lilac.
3. They are social butterflies. Siamese cats are a people-loving breed who will bond closely to their humans. They also enjoy the company of other cats, children and even strangers.
Bengals are known for their cunning personalities and high energy levels. They are bred to look exotic like jungle cats. Hence, they are perfect for an active household with lots of time to devote to them.
1. They like water. Bengals like playing in the water. Hence, it is not unusual for them to join their owner in the shower. If you own a Siamese cat, you may want to consider installing a pet fountain so he can drink whenever he pleases.
2. Two is better than one. Bengals thrive on consistent interaction. Thus, it would be better to keep them in twos.
3. Bengals are natural hunters. Their predatory instincts run deep. These cats are avid and skilled hunters, just like their leopard ancestors.
These cats are the largest cat breed, and can weigh up to 8 kilograms! They are a loyal, affectionate and playful breed.
Here are some interesting facts about Maine Coons!
1. Not all Maine Coon cats are brown. Maine Coons are commonly seen with brown coats. However, they actually come in all kinds of colours and patterns. Those include smoke, cream, cameo, mackerel and tortoiseshell.
2. They are ‘gentle giants’. These cats are huge but they are also affectionate and sociable.
3. Maine Coons are a playful breed. Playtime is important for these cats as they love to play with people. Be prepared to provide them with lots of interaction and play!
Ragdolls are loving and affectionate which makes them a great addition. They are relatively a new breed and are not yet century old. They were bred in California in the US in the 1960s and are one of the largest cat breeds.
Here are some interesting facts about Ragdolls!
1. They all have beautiful blue eyes. Ragdoll eyes come in different shapes and shades of blue. Importantly, all purebred ragdolls have blue eyes.
2. These cats have dog-like personalities. Ragdolls exhibit traits like loyalty and playfulness like a dog. They love being near their humans and will even wait outside a door for them.
3. Ragdolls are quiet by nature. This breed is generally quiet. Sometimes they are so quiet to a point where they do not show distress or pain.
Persian cats are perfect for people who want a calm, affectionate pet. They like to be held and enjoy sitting on your lap. These cats have short muzzles and round faces.
Here are some interesting facts about Persians!
1. Their coats are a rainbow of cat colours. There are seven different categories of Persians: solid, silver and golden, smoke and shaded, tabby, particolor, bicolor and Himalayan.
2. Persian cats are not compatible with kids. If you have kids at home, you might want to reconsider your decision. Persian cats do not like loud noise and constant disturbance.
3. They are good companions. Persian cats are the perfect breed for anyone who is concerned that their cat will destroy their homes. They are not curious or adventurous by nature.
The Singapura Cat is believed to have originated from the streets of Singapore. Singapura cats were not recognised as an official breed until the 1970s. In Singapore, they are recognised as a national treasure.
Here are some interesting facts about the Singapura Cat!
1. They are very extroverted! A great addition to households with other cats, well-mannered children and cat-friendly canines.
2. Mischievous and curious. They love to get into things and will need a lot of interactive toys to keep them entertained.
3. Known as mini heating pads. The Singapura Cat’s bodies give off a surprising amount of heat and are perfect for snuggling on the cold rainy night!
Shedding is a normal part of a dog’s life. Some dog breeds shed more than others. However, if you notice your dog shedding more than usual, it could be a serious problem.
What Causes Dogs to Shed?
The dog fur helps control their body temperature. Additionally, it protects their skin from the sun and other environmental elements. Shedding helps the dog remove hair that stopped growing. The frequency and amount of shedding will depend on a few factors.
Breed
Environment
Health conditions
Breed
Some breeds shed more than others and it is totally natural. For example, Shepherds usually shed a lot. A dog’s fur grows in cycles, there are three main periods: growth, not growing, and shedding. In some dogs, the cycle happens yearly but some may repeat every month.
Environment
In some places of the world, dogs experience seasonal shedding. As such, they tend to shed around fall and spring. However, in Singapore, dogs may experience more shedding to help regulate body temperature in the heat.
Skin Issues
Some skin disorders cause hair loss and bald patches. For instance, infestation of parasites like fleas, lice or mites can cause excessive hair loss. Ringworm, dermatitis, some types of fungal infections, immune disease and cancer can lead to hair loss as well.
Contact a veterinarian immediately if you notice these on your dog:
Skin Irritations
Bumps
Scabs
Rash
Allergies
Certain foods, medications, household cleaners and grooming supplies may trigger an allergic reaction. These allergies could be causing your dog to shed.
Allergies can be categorised into four types:
1. Atopy (genetic)
2. Environmental allergies
3. Flea allergies
4. Food allergies
Contact a veterinarian and they will pinpoint the allergen and find the most effective treatment.
Stressed-Induced Shedding
Dogs can shed when they are stressed or anxious. Changes in the environment can cause your dog to shed more. Additionally, stressful situations like going to the vet can cause them to shed more.
If you think your dog is experiencing stress or anxiety and it is causing them to shed, talk to a veterinarian. They will be able to refer you to a qualified veterinary behaviourist.
A veterinary behaviourist is specialised in treatment of behavioural issues. They will be able to help you find solutions such as anti-anxiety medications.
What is a Normal Amount of Shedding?
There are many variables that can change and affect the amount of shedding in dogs. Therefore, it is difficult to pinpoint the ‘normal’ amount of shedding. However, you can look out for symptoms that indicate abnormal shedding.
Balding spots
Poor coat quality
Clumpy hair loss
Tenderness
The best way to find out if your dog is shedding due to health issues is to make a vet appointment and consult with them.
How To Manage Your Dog’s Shedding?
PetMD
Although you cannot prevent normal shedding, you can manage it. There are products that can manage their shedding and prevent you from being covered in pet hair. The best way to manage shedding is to use a deshedding glove, or a grooming brush like the Furminator Dual Grooming Brush. It is important to brush your dog every day and twice a day for heavy-shedders. You can also use deshedding shampoos and conditioners such as Tropiclean Deshedding Lime & Coconut Pet Shampoo.
Rabbits are becoming more common as domestic pets. However, not many people are aware of how to care for rabbits properly. Improper care of pet rabbits can cause them various health issues. If you are a new rabbit parent, this post will help you take better care of your rabbit.
Here are some basic rabbit facts:
Life Span: 8 years on average
Size: 8 to 20 inches
Diet: Vegetables, fruits, hay
Cage
When choosing a cage, you need to choose one which can allow them to stand on their hind legs without hitting their heads on the top of the cage. Make sure the cage has space for a litter box and a resting area. Choose a cage that is made out of metal or any indestructible material. Place the cage in a cool and well-ventilated area. If the place is too hot, your rabbit can potentially suffer from fatal heat stroke.
Exercise
Do note that your rabbit should not be kept in the cage at all times. Rabbits need their daily exercise to stay healthy. Thus, they need to be let out into a larger exercise area to run, jump and move around for at least a few hours every day. You can either let your rabbit have free access to the home or you can buy a pen. The pen should be at least 3 feet tall so as to keep them from potential dangerous materials at home. Additionally, you can put the pen outside to allow your bunny access to grassy areas but never leave them unsupervised.
If you decide to let your rabbit roam your house freely, you will need to rabbit-proof the area. Remember to block all escape routes and block all electrical cords. Furthermore, you can cover your furniture to protect it from teeth and claws. Importantly, remove all toxic plants, insecticides, rodenticides and other toxins.
Litter Box
Rabbits can be litter box trained.
1. Restrict your bunny to a small area
2. Place the litter box in the corner.
3. Choose somewhere which your rabbit had already chosen to go to the bathroom
4. The sides of the litter box should be low enough so the rabbit can get in and out without difficulty.
5. Place some droppings and hay in the litter box to encourage your rabbit to use it.
Side note: there should be one more litter box provided than the number of bunnies in the home.
Consider using pellet litter in the litter box. Pelleted litter is not toxic and digestible if ingested. Additionally, it draws moisture away from the surface which keeps it dry and odour-free. Avoid clay or clumping kitty litter as your bunny may ingest it which can cause fatal intestinal blockage.
Resting Area
Some bunnies prefer an enclosed box to hide in. You can use a straw woven house, litter pan, or a cardboard box with an entrance hole. If their cage has a wire floor, you should provide a solid area for them to rest. Make sure that the material is washable or disposable. Try not to use carpet squares because they are not absorbent. Furthermore, they are abrasive to their feet and cannot be cleaned.
Toys
Bunnies should be provided with plenty of toys for mental stimulation. Additionally, the toys can help wear down the teeth. You can purchase dry branches from untreated trees, wooden chew toys or straw baskets, like Oxbow Enriched Small Animal Toys and Momi Grass Woven Balls. Bunnies like things that can move, so you can use toilet paper rolls, small empty cardboard cartons or air filled balls.
Rabbit’s Diet
Rabbits are herbivores, and their daily diet should consist mostly of hay. The illustration above shows the amount of food that should be given to your bunny. Importantly, rabbits should always have access to fresh water. Use a water bottle attached to the side of the cage and refresh the water daily.
Rabbit’s Behaviour & Temperament
Rabbits are social creatures. They are quite tame, playful, and entertaining to watch. Many bunnies can learn to respond to their name. They often have close bonds with their owners and like to be around them. Additionally, they enjoy being on their feet on the ground and cuddling up next to their owners for petting. If improperly handled, they might scratch. Rabbits require gentle care which means they are not typically a good match for children who don’t understand gentle handling.
Common Health Problems
Rabbits are prone to certain medical problems and those are:
Digestive issues
Eye problems
Respiratory infections
Skin issues
Some bunnies may experience overgrown teeth which can be worn down by chew toys. If your bunny has overgrown teeth, it can make it difficult for them to eat or drink. Thus, you will need to bring them to the vet to get it trimmed.
Grooming Rabbits
Rabbits groom themselves. You can brush their fur to help remove loose fur and hairball prevention. For short-hair rabbits, you can brush them roughly once a week. Long-hair rabbits require brushing daily to prevent tangles.
Baths are not necessary but you can spot clean dirty parts of your rabbit’s coat by gently rubbing it with a damp cloth.
They need nail trims because they do not naturally wear down. If you are unsure how to trim them, your vet can show you how to do it properly.
Similar Exotic Pets to Rabbit
If you are interested in rabbits, you might also be interested in these other exotic pets:
Indoor plants can be a good way to freshen up your room and create a calming environment. However, if you are a cat parent, it is crucial to check if the plants you are bringing home or already have are toxic to cats. If not, it can cause serious problems, such as organ failure, seizures or even death, to your feline.
Your feline may nibble on your plants to get extra nutrients and fibre. Unfortunately, they would not know whether the plant is good or bad for them. Thus, as a responsible pet parent, it is your duty to ensure that your feline is not exposed to any toxic houseplants. Here we have identified some toxic plants for cats.
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Toxic Components: Insoluble Calcium Oxalates
If your cat consumes lilies, your veterinarian may have to perform lab work such as blood and urine tests. Depending on the test results, there would be discussions on a monitoring plan for kidney function.
Make a Switch: Change your lilies to white orchids. They are not toxic to cats, beautiful and quite easy to take care of!
Eucalyptus (Myrtaceae)
Toxic Components: Eucalyptol
If your cat consumes eucalyptus, they exhibit signs like drooling, vomiting, lower appetite and diarrhoea. These symptoms are minor and should go away without specific treatment in 24 hours.
Make a Switch: Change to Rosemary! They are known for its amazing scent and it repels mosquitoes. It is an excellent replacement for eucalyptus.
Jade (Crassula)
They are also known as rubber plants, money plants or lucky plants. Jade can cause serious issues such as vomiting, neurological symptoms such as incoordination. Additionally, it can cause depression in some felines. It is crucial to seek immediate veterinary care when you suspect your cat has eaten this plant. If your feline is not neurologically impaired, treatment will cause them to vomit. Helping your feline remove the toxin rapidly from the body. Further monitoring and symptomatic support will be needed to ensure your feline returns to good health.
Make a Switch: Switch your jades to haworthia retusas. They offer the same thick and juicy leaf structure and they are not toxic to your cat.
Aloe Vera (Liliaceae)
Toxic Components: Saponins, Anthraquinones
The thick plant material surrounding the gel can cause gastric upset, lethargy and diarrhoea in cats.
Make a Switch: Try swapping your aloe vera for haworthia zebra succulent. It is smaller but it offers the same aesthetics. Plus, they are succulents so it is easy to care for.
Devil’s Ivy (Epipremnum Aureum)
Mr. Plant Geek
Toxic Components: Insoluble calcium oxalates
Known as the pothos, golden pothos and taro vine. Insoluble calcium oxalates can cause mouth, throat, tongue and lip irritation. Additionally, it can cause intense burning, excessive drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing.
Make a Switch:Chinese money plants are a great substitute as they provide the same dropping aesthetic. As a bonus, they may bring good feng shui to your home.
Hydrangea
Toxic Components: Cyanogenic glycoside
When your cat ingests enough hydrangea to get sick, symptoms such as being nauseated, drooling and vomiting may start to show. Usually these symptoms are followed by diarrhoea, and the diarrhoea may be very bloody.
Make a Switch:Zinnias make an excellent alternative to hydrangeas. Zinnias are available in a broad range of colours which can definitely brighten your room.
Ingesting dumbcane can cause oral irritation, intense burning of the mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Call the poison control hotline or your veterinarian for assistance immediately if your cat has consumed dumbcane.
Make a Switch: You can swap your dumbcane for a prayer plant as it is cat-safe and vet-approved.
Snake plant (Sansevieria Trifasciata)
The Spruce
Toxic Components: Saponins
Snake plant contains saponins which can result in nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea if consumed. Contact your veterinarian immediately if your feline has consumed a snake plant.
Make a Switch: Swapping your snake plant for a caeroba would be good as it is a non-toxic plant. Additionally, it closely resembles a snake plant.
Amaryllis
FloraQueen
Toxic Components: Lycorine
When cats nibble on this type of lily, they can experience stomach pain, excess drooling, tremors, diarrhoea, vomiting and decrease in appetite.
Make a Switch: Instead of amaryllis, you can get orchids. They offer a burst of colour to your room and are not toxic to cats.
Azalea
Toxic Components: Grayanotoxin
If your feline eats any part of the azalea, they can experience vomiting, diarrhoea, weakness and potentially cardiac failure.
Make a Switch: Choose red camellia instead. They have a similar splash of red colour and are not toxic for your cats.
Tulip
Toxic Components: Tulipalin A and B
The entire tulip is poisonous and can cause serious issues in your cat. Those include vomiting, depression, diarrhoea and hypersalivation. Call your vet immediately if your feline has ingested tulips.
Make a Switch: Opt for peonies instead of tulips. They are vibrant and beautiful.
What can you do if your cat nibbles or eats toxic plants?
If you suspect that your feline has chewed on or eaten a potentially toxic plant, it is recommended to take a picture of the plant and head down to the veterinarian immediately. Cats are very skilled at hiding their symptoms as it is a defence mechanism. Thus, it is important to take your cat to the vet even if they are not acting overly sick.
Chinchillas are not a very common domestic pet in Singapore. Thus, many people do not know how to care for chinchillas properly. These small, furry pets make wonderful companions for both adults and children. Before getting one, you have to make sure they are suitable for you. Read more to find out more about how to care for a chinchilla.
Here are some basic chinchilla facts:
Life Span: up to 10+ years
Size: 12 inches long
Diet: Herbivore
Minimum Habitat Size: 24 inches x 24 inches
Getting the Right Habitat
Chinchillas love to jump, climb and play. Therefore, a large, multi-tiered habitat is recommended. A minimum of 2 inches x 2 inches floor space must be provided.
Wire habitats can provide optimal ventilation, choose one with a solid bottom to protect their feet. Plastic habitats are not recommended because they can chew through with their sharp teeth.
Preparation of their Habitat
After choosing a suitable habitat, we need to add some items to make it homey.
Bedding: 1 to 2 inches of bedding should be placed in their habitat. Choose paper-based bedding as it is digestible (if ingested). Try to avoid wood shavings as it can cause serious harm when eaten such as intestinal blockage. Also, avoid cedar-based products as they can cause skin and respiratory tract inflammation.
Decor: Chinchillas love to hide. You should provide hiding places in their habitats to make them feel secure.
Toys: An exersaucer or solid wheel should be provided in their habitat for them to get their exercise. Exercise wheels should be solid inside to prevent their toes and legs from being trapped.
Dust Bath: Allow your chinchilla to have dust baths a couple of times per week to help keep their fur clean. Purchase a dust bathhouse and add some dust inside to allow them to clean themselves.
Cleaning of your Chinchilla’s Habitat
Daily spot cleaning of your chinchilla’s habitat is needed. Remember to remove soiled bedding and leftover food as it can lead to foot sores and inflammation.
Weekly cleaning and disinfecting of their habitat is required.
1. Move your Chinchilla to a separate, secure location.
2. Wash their habitat with a small animal habitat cleaner.
3. Allow the solution to remain for the instructed amount of time before rinsing off.
4. Rinse and allow the habitat to dry completely before placing new bedding in.
Chinchilla Diet
Clean and fresh water should always be available
Timothy hay or low-calcium grass hay should always be available as it forms the majority of a chinchilla’s diet
1 to 2 tablespoons of chinchilla pellets should be offered daily
Fresh vegetables like the ones below, together with small amounts of fruits can be given daily but should not exceed 10% of their total diet. Vegetables and fruits not eaten within 24 hours should be discarded, as they are likely to spoil.
Small amounts of high-fibre treats (occasionally)
For Young Chinchillas:
Alfalfa hay
Do not feed these:
Chocolate
Caffeine
Alcohol
Dried fruits
Raisins
Nuts
Seeds
Health
A healthy chinchilla will show these signs:
Eating and drinking regularly
Active, alert and sociable
Clear eyes
Breathing is easy
Walking normally
Fur around mouth and chin is clean and dry
No nose discharge
If you notice these following in your chinchilla, you might want to visit a vet.
Grooming your guinea pig is important as it keeps them clean and healthy. Different types of guinea pigs have different grooming needs. Therefore, it is essential to learn how to groom your guinea pigs to ensure that they are always clean!
Hair
#1 Short-haired: they do not need much brushing. You can brush them once a week to remove some loose hairs.
#2 Long-haired: they need daily brushing and occasional trim.
Nails
All guinea pigs should have their nails trimmed twice a month. Remember to remove just the sharp tips.
#2 Buy some styptic powder. It will come in handy if you accidentally cut the quick which causes bleeding. Styptic powder will prevent them from bleeding continuously.
#3 If you have never trimmed any pet’s nails before, you need to learn where their quick is to avoid cutting it. The quick is the pink part of the nail that contains the blood supply. It is easy to cut clear nails as it is easy to identify their quick. However, if your piggy has dark nails, you have to be careful. Try to cut tiny amounts off the ends to prevent cutting their quick.
#4 Have your piggy sit on your lap on something soft such as a towel. Your piggy should be sitting on your lap with its back towards you.
#5 “Burrito” method can be helpful. Have your piggy wrapped snugly in a towel with its feet sticking out.
#6 If your piggy fidgets a lot, providing them with something to chew on can be helpful. You can give them some apple slices to chew on while you trim their nails.
#7 Hold one foot and gently trim each nail. Remember to start with a tiny amount if you are new at this!
#8 If you are really unsure, you can ask your veterinarian to demonstrate to you. Your veterinarian will be happy to show you how to do it!
Bath
All guinea pigs occasionally need to have their backs bathed. Long-haired guinea pigs will need bathing more often.
Your piggy does not need regular baths. However, it would be good to bathe them a few times a year or when they are particularly dirty. It would be great to start bathing them when they are young. Additionally, you can provide them with veggie or fruit as a treat so that they would not be as stressed.
#1 You need guinea pig safe shampoo.
#2 You can either bathe your piggy in your sink or use a large bucket or tub. If the sink or tub has a slippery surface, you can place a cloth at the bottom so that they don’t slip and get scared. This method is quieter and can be less stressful for your pig.
#3 Put warm water in another bucket, slowly pour a small amount of water on your piggy. Remember to stay away from their face.
#4 Remember to avoid their faces when you are bathing them. Use your hands to move the water around their body to make it wet.
#5 Put a tiny amount of shampoo in your hands. Slowly work it into your piggy’s fur.
#6 Rinse your piggy gently until the water is clear. Make sure all the shampoo is rinsed out before moving on.
#7 Take a towel and carefully dry as much excess water as you can. For longer haired piggies, you should have a comb with you to comb their hair to prevent tangling.
#8 Placing your piggy on a secure surface, use a blow dryer to dry them. Use the lowest setting available. Use your fingers to help dry their fur quicker. To prevent tangling, use a comb to brush through their fur.
#9 Make sure your guinea pig is 100% dry before placing them back into their cage.
Hamsters are quite common as a starter household pet. They are easier to take care of compared to pets like dogs and cats. Thus, making them popular amongst people with children. There are many different breeds of hamsters and they differ in size. It is important to know your hamster breed to take care of them better.
Here are some basic hamster facts:
Life Span: 1.5 to 2 years
Size: 5 to 35 cm
Diet: Grain, seed and nuts
Before purchasing a hamster, you’ll need to prepare some essential items. By providing these items, you can minimise their stress when adjusting to a new home. Here are the essential items:
1. Cage
2. Bedding
3. Food
4. Food Bowl
5. Water Bottle
6. Hamster Wheel
7. Hideout
8. Toys
9. Sand Bath
Getting the Right Cage
Buy a cage that is escape-proof, easy to clean and big enough for your hamster. Cages with tubes can be fun for your hamster but they are hard to clean and have poor ventilation. Hamsters are extremely small and can fit through small spaces. Thus, find a cage that will not allow your hamster to escape. Remember to clean your hamster’s cage weekly!
As mentioned, hamsters come in different sizes. Thus, make sure to buy a cage that is large enough for your hamster. For instance, for a Syrian hamster, it is best to buy a larger cage. Here is an example:
Hamster Society Singapore
For a Dwarf hamster, they can often squeeze through the bars of average-sized hamster cages. Therefore, it will be better to get a cage with smaller bars. Here is an example:
Prevue Pet Products
Bedding
There are different types of beddings for hamster cages. You need to choose the correct bedding as some can cause harm to your hamster.
Paper-based bedding: good for odour control (stick to non-scented options!
Avoid cedar and pine-wood chips as they produce an odour that can irritate your hamster’s respiratory system.
Hamster Food
Choose good quality food for your hamster. Pelleted foods are a better option than loose food mixes. With loose food mixes, your hamster may pick out what they like and leave those that they dislike, resulting in dietary imbalance or causing them to be overweight. You can feed your hamster with fresh vegetables as well. They should be fed once a day. Remember to remove those fresh foods that have not been consumed within a few hours.
Food Bowls & Water Bottle
Pick a food bowl that is small and shallow which doesn’t tip over easily. A great option would be ceramic or porcelain bowls as they are sturdy and not easily chewable. Choose a water bottle with stainless steel sprout and ball, as it keeps the cage clean and the water fresh.
Sand Bath
Sand baths can help deter skin parasites and remove grease from your hamster’s fur. You can provide your hamster with a sand bath to keep their fur clean and odourless. Purchase a container shallow enough for your hamster to go in and out and large enough to roll around. Pour the sand bath into the container and your hamster will go in to roll around!
Exercise
Hamsters enjoy running and they need their daily exercise. Thus, it is best to purchase an exercise wheel. The exercise wheel should have a solid surface for running. Avoid cross supports as they might get their legs caught. Choose a wheel that is quiet as they like to run at night.
Additionally, you can get toys for them to chew on or climb on. They can become bored without stimulation and exercise. When they are bored, they will chew on random things which can lead to them escaping.
Hideout
Hamsters would want a hideout. You can get them a half coconut shell or small clay plant pot to prevent them from chewing it up. Make sure their hideout does not have rough or sharp edges that can hurt them.
Healthcare
As hamsters are so small, if there is an issue, it can affect them quickly. Here are some symptoms to take note:
Inactivity
Not eating
Diarrhoea
Hair loss
Sneezing
Pneumonia
If you notice these symptoms, you might want to visit a vet.
To ensure your piggie lives a healthy and long life, it is important to provide them with the ideal diet. Guinea pigs have specific nutritional needs and they could develop significant health problems if these needs are not met.
Diet
#1 Vitamin C
Guinea pigs are unable to synthesise vitamin C. Therefore, it is important for them to get it from the food they eat. Pet supply stores such as ours sell vitamin C supplements for your piggies.
#2 Pellets
Guinea pig pellets are formulated with vitamin C. Some other small animals such as rabbit pellets look similar but they do not contain vitamin C. Thus, it is important to feed your piggies the correct pellets.
Pellets generally contain more protein and calcium. The average adult guinea pigs do not need it as much as young guinea pigs. Hay is the perfect source of fibre and nutrients which should make up the most of your piggy’s diet. Chewing the long strands of hay will help keep your guinea pig’s teeth from overgrowing. Thus, there should be an ample amount of hay in your piggy’s cage.
#4 Veggies and Fruits
Fresh veggies and fruits contain ample amounts of vitamin C which is good for your guinea pigs. Here are some great vegetable and fruit options for your piggies:
A. Dark leafy greens such as spinach and kale.
B. Bell peppers
C. Carrots
D. Strawberries
E. Oranges (Not too much as it it acidic)
F. Apples
Remember to feed FRESH fruits and veggies instead of cooked ones so that the vitamin C is preserved. Additionally, make sure to wash the veggies and fruits thoroughly. Divide the food into several smaller servings and feed them a little throughout the day.
What foods should guinea pigs avoid?
Here is a list of items that can cause guinea pigs to have digestive issues or even be toxic to them. Do not feed your piggy these food:
Potatoes, including sprouts, peels, and parts of a potato plant
Beans, including bean plants
Dill
Flowers or any part of a flower including stems and leaves
Rhubarb including the plant
Tomato plants (although you can feed your pig tomatoes)
Iceberg lettuce
Cabbage
Cauliflower
Broccoli
Avocado
Onions
Chives
Leeks
Shallots
Garlic
Thawed frozen foods
Weeds you find in the wild and in your garden
Common houseplants
Seeds, pits and cores of any type of fruit
Meat and dairy products
Mental and Physical Care
Guinea pigs are social animals. They need to socialise daily to ensure they stay healthy and happy. Thus, it is important to take note that you need to keep guinea pigs in groups.
Socialising
You might want to consider keeping two guinea pigs together to prevent loneliness. Make sure they are the same gender if you do not want a population problem.
If you only have one guinea pig, it is best to spend time with your piggy. Spend at least 15 minutes at several points throughout the day with it.
Exercise
Adequate space for your piggy to run around should be provided. Additionally, you can get them an exercise/chew ball to let them work off some extra energy.
Veterinary Care
If you provide your piggy with the proper diet and cage conditions, they should have minimal health problems. Additionally, they do not need any vaccinations. However, if you notice these symptoms you should consult a veterinarian:
Overgrown teeth that don’t align neatly together
Open sores, poor coat or other skin problems may be a sign of scurvy
Unusual lumps or growths can be a sign of cancer
Sores on their feet which is a sign of a common condition known as bumblefoot
Trouble breathing which can indicate a respiratory infection
Diarrhoea is common and can be due to parasites or bacterial infections
Before bringing your new guinea pig home, you need to make sure you have set up a suitable habitat for them. Having a suitable habitat for your guinea pigs will ensure that they stay healthy and happy. Are you unsure of what enclosure is suitable for your piggy? This is the blog post for you!
Basic Guinea Pig Facts
Life Span: 5 to 9 years
Size: up to 25cm
Diet: Hay, veggies and pellets
House Size (Minimum): 7.5 square feet
Cage Size
Cage size is the most important thing to take note of as a new piggy parent. Most piggy parents would get these cages for their piggy.
However, it is not big enough. Guinea pigs need a lot of space to move around as they are active animals. Therefore, the bigger the cage, the better. Here are some suitable cages for guinea pigs:
Care of their Cage
Daily: Remove droppings, soiled bedding and stale food from their cage.
Weekly: Replace all bedding and rinse out the bottom of the tub with warm water. Dry it out then put new bedding in.
Temperature Needs
Guinea pigs cannot tolerate extreme temperatures well. Hence, it is important to put their cage in an area with proper temperature care. They do the best in temperatures ranging from 20 degree celsius to 22 degree celsius. Since Singapore is warm all the time, you can place them in an area with a fan or air conditioner.
Flooring
To keep your guinea pig’s feet healthy, make sure to use a plastic tub or fleece blanket instead of wire lining.
Here are some beddings that you can consider for your guinea pig’s cage:
Shredded or recycled newspaper bedding
Carefresh Shavings
Hay
Hemp
Ground corn cob
Cotton towels or cloths
Fleece liners
Cage Accessories
Here are some basic items that your piggies need in their cage!
There are other ways to provide your piggies a comfortable hut. Instead of purchasing an already built cage, you can make one yourself.
One fun and inexpensive way to make a living space for your piggies is using Cubes and Coroplast (C&C). These C&C panels can be arranged in any pattern and can be easily connected with zip ties.
Another way would be to use your old dresser and some drain pipes. Using this method, you can create a multi-level home for your pig.
As long as the materials are safe for your piggies, and the living space is secured. You can be creative and use different items to make a cage for them!
Our dogs are always there whenever we need them. They cheer us up when we are upset or stressed. Thus, we must care for them whenever they are stressed. Dogs primarily communicate using their body language. By understanding how they communicate, you can minimise stress triggers for them.
What are the indicators of stress in dogs?
#1 Pacing/Shaking
When your dog is pacing back and forth, it means that they cannot settle down. If this happens for a short period, it is normal. It is important to notice what is triggering this behaviour in your canine.
Do take note that in older dogs, pacing could be a sign of dementia. Talk to your veterinarian immediately, if you notice this behaviour in your senior canine.
#2 Whining/Barking
Vocalisation may intensify when your pooch is stressed. Many canines cannot control their whining or barking when stressed. You may notice your dog whining or barking to get your attention or self-soothe.
#3 Changes in Body Posture
Stress causes dogs to exhibit changes in body posture. There are more than 30 ways that your pooch may try to calm themselves. Some signs includes:
Whale eye: when dogs reveal the whites of their eyes
Tucking their tail
Tucking their ears
Raising their hackles
Yawning
Licking
Panting
#4 Changes in Body Functions
Similar to humans, dogs can feel the sudden urge to go to the toilet when stressed. Additionally, refusing food or loss of bowel movements can be stress indicators.
#5 Avoiding Behaviour
When your dog faces an unwelcoming situation, they might try to ‘escape’ by avoiding it. Shifting their focus onto something else such as sniffing the ground. If your dog starts to avoid interaction with people or other dogs, do not force them to.
Sometimes your dog may need space immediately. Thus, it is important to understand some signs they show when that happens.
#1 Crouched and growling with their ears back and tail under.
#2 Rolling onto their side or back. Tail tucked, ears back and one or both back legs raised.
#3 Tense looking, leaning forward, tail pointing up and growling.
How can you help your dog when they are stressed?
IMPORTANT
Do remember that stress can be triggered by an injury or illness. So, if you think that your dog is stressed, it is advisable to book an appointment with your vet. Making sure to rule out any underlying health issues is important for the next steps.
#1 Remove your dog from situations that they find difficult.
#2 Teach your dog to enjoy chilling out. Teaching them to settle or making your dog their own snuffle mat.
#3 Notice your dog’s routine. Are there any particular places or people that causes your pooch to struggle with? If there are any, you can try to limit these triggers or avoid them.
#4 Have a predictable routine. Dogs enjoy being able to predict their day as they will be able to feel in control, safe and secure.
#5 Provide your dog with their own space in your home. Having a space to themselves will allow them to relax and calm down in that area.
#6 Try to avoid telling your dog off as it can increase stress.
Did you notice your cat looking a little pudgier? Your cat could be overweight. Obesity in cats can be a real problem which can lead to many other health problems. Thus, as a loving owner, it is your job to make sure your feline is healthy!
Let’s begin with four physical ways to tell if your cat is overweight.
#1 Ribs
Run your hands along your cat’s side. If the ribs are easily felt along with a little covering of fat, your cat is healthy! However, if you cannot feel the ribs easily, it can be a sign that your cat is overweight.
#2 Abdomen
If you see a layer of low hanging fat on your cat’s side, it could be a sign that your cat is overweight.
#3 Spine
Run your hands down your cat’s back, can you feel the bones below a layer of fat? If not, your cat is overweight.
#4 Waist
Look at your cat from the top, can you see their waist? There should be a space between their ribs and hips protrudes. If not, your cat is overweight.
So, if your cat checks most or all of the boxes. What should you do? Here are some ways to help your cat lose weight.
#1 Control Food Intake
When putting your cat on a diet, you must be extremely careful. Drastically cutting back on the amount of food can be dangerous to your cat’s heath.
According to an article from Pet Health Network, for a fat cat to not eat for a few days can cause serious liver issues. Therefore, it is safer for your cat to gradually lose weight. You can start by feeding her weight control cat food.
If your cat is very obese, prescribed therapeutic weight loss food may be recommended by the vet. It would be best to discuss your cat’s needs with the vet before placing her on any kind of diet.
#2 Take Your Cat to the Vet
As mentioned from the previous point, it is best to bring your cat to the vet. The vet will come up with the best weight loss regimen for your cat. Furthermore, they will also identify any underlying issues that your cat might have.
#3 Increase Her Activity Level
Cats are not programmed to go out for a walk like dogs. Hence, it is not easy to get cats to exercise. The good news is that cats do not need much exercise to stay healthy.
Cat Behaviour Associates recommends two fifteen-minute sessions of interactive play everyday. You should engage her in activities such as chasing or leaping after her favourite teasers or other toys.
Investing in an indoor cat tree would increase the opportunity for your cat to climb and jump. Play time with a cat tree combined with the two sessions, you are basically providing your kitty a home gym!
Dogs that are overly attached or dependent on family members have separation anxiety. They display extreme anxiety or distress behaviours when separated from their owner. Dogs are social animals which makes them prone to separation anxiety.
What causes separation anxiety?
Dogs can experience separation anxiety when there is an abrupt change in schedule. One prominent factor in triggering separation anxiety is the amount of time a dog is left alone. Other factors can include being abandoned, surrendered to a shelter or given to a new family.
What are some signs of separation anxiety?
The most common signs of separation anxiety are vocalisation, destructive behaviour and not eating while the owner is away.
Here are some signs of separation anxiety in dogs.
When left alone, they might:
Howl, bark, or whine excessively
Chew things up, dig holes, scratch at windows and doors
Drool, pant, or salivate way more than usual
Pace, often in an obsessive pattern
Houdini Syndrome (trying to escape)
Psychogenic anorexia (not eating when you are gone)
When with you they might:
Follow you around
Pre-departure anxiety
What can you do if your dog has separation anxiety?
Here are some steps you can follow:
Establish a routine
Since your dog is anxious, it is important to try to make him calmer. Establish a daily routine which can allow your dog to predict when he can expect attention.
Activities such as exercise, feeding, training and play should be included in this daily routine. Furthermore, this can help him prepare for inattention activities such as napping.
Meet your dog’s needs
When interacting with your dog, make sure you are meeting all his needs. You should initiate enough interactive sessions and provide your dog with enough play and attention. When those sessions are over, your dog will be prepared to settle down and relax.
During this time, you can give your dog chew toys to allow them to focus on settling down. You can replace your standard food bowls with feeding toys so that it requires more mental and physical effort during feeding time.
Give rewards appropriately
Dogs with separation anxiety will likely favour rewards that come from attention and play. Each treat given to your dog should be well thought out. You need to reinforce your dog for settling down, relaxing or showing independence.
During training, you should focus on relaxed down, going on a bed or mat command. If your dog seeks attention, you should ignore him entirely until he settles, or have him do a down-stay.
After some time in the down-stay, give attention as a reward. Gradually, increase the time periods of inattention, then give attention as a reward. Take note that you should be ignoring attention-seeking behaviours and not your dog. This method will allow your dog to learn that calm and quiet behaviour is the only way to get your attention.
Train “settle”.
The objective of this training is to ensure that your dog settles down on cue. Before giving any rewards, your dog should be settled down or lying on his bed. For a few weeks, casual interactions and attention seeking behaviours should be ignored. Ensuring that only calm behaviours will be rewarded.
Create an area for relaxation
Create a space where your dog can be taught to rest, nap, and play with his toys. By doing so, it can be a secure place where your dog settles when you are not home.
Start by training your dog to go to the area. Gradually, increase the time. You can consider having a barricade or crate to ensure that your dog stays in that area for the allocated time for each session. However, do take note of your dog’s limits. To prevent crying or barking behaviour from being reinforced, it is important that your dog is calm and settled when released.
You can give your dogs some of his rewards only in this area. You can include audible cues such as TV, or odours such as candles, or your clothing with your scent to help your dog relax in that area.
Work on responses to commands.
Having your dog earning all rewards can be useful. Before receiving anything your dog wants, you can have your dog respond to a command such as “sit”.
If your dog’s situation is more serious, it would be best to consider these following methods:
Consult a veterinarian.
Symptoms shown can be an indication of other issues. Further understand and confirm your dog’s symptoms by getting an official diagnosis.
Consult with an animal behavioural specialist.
If your dog has been diagnosed with separation anxiety by the veterinarian, you should consult with an animal behavioural specialist. They would have a consultation based on the specifics of your dog’s lifestyle and behaviour. They can help come up with a plan to help your dog ease their separation anxiety.
According to The International Cat Association, there are 71 officially recognized cat breeds. However, not every cat is a purebred. Some felines could be a mix of two or more of these official breeds. Therefore, making it difficult to identify cats whose breed is unknown. Fortunately, you will have this guide to help you identify what breed of cat you have!
In order to determine your feline’s breed, you need to identify some characteristics. Finding out these traits can help you narrow it down to a few possible breeds.
Mixed Breed vs Purebred
One important step is to identify whether your cat is a mixed breed or a purebred. Purebreds are easier to identify as they portray specific characteristics. If you can figure out what breed matches all traits portrayed by your cat, you’ll know what breed your cat is.
Mixed-breed cats are an amalgamation. There are no standard characteristics portrayed. Making it difficult for you to accurately identify the breed. To make it easier, we can identify specific traits to come up with an educated guess on what breed your cat is. These traits include:
Size and Weight
Face Shape
Ears
Eyes
Coat
Colour, Patterns and Markings
Points
Tails
#1 Size and Weight
Cats come in various sizes, ranging from tiny dwarf cats that might weigh about 1.8kg to Maine Coons which can weigh up to 10.8kg. Size and weight can often tell you a lot about your cat’s breed. Let’s take a look at different sizes of cats and their breed.
Large Cats
Cats weighing over 6.8kg are classified as large cats, on rare occasions they can weigh as heavy as 13.6kg. However, some large cats can be as light as 5.4kg which makes it easy to confuse them with medium-sized cats.
Large cats are only heavy, but also very long and tall. Usually standing more than 8 inches tall and can reach heights of 16 inches easily. Their bodies can range from 30 inches to 48 inches. If your cat meets these requirements, it can be considered as a large cat!
Not a lot of breeds reach this size. Thus, it should be easy for you to identify if your cat meets these measurements.
Here are some common large cat breeds:
Bengal Cat
Burmese Cat
Egyptian Mau
Maine Coon
Norwegian Forest Cat
Ragdoll
Savannah Cat
Medium-Sized Cats
Most cats fall under the medium-sized category. These cats usually weigh between 4kg to 6.8kg. Since most cats are under this category, it will not help a lot with breed identification. Moreover, it can still be a contributing factor after identifying other traits.
Some medium-sized cat breeds includes:
American Shorthair
American Wirehair
Birman
Bombay
Burmese
Exotic Shorthair
Himalayan
Manx
Ocicat
Persian
Russian Blue
Scottish Fold
Selkirk Rex
Siamese
Snowshoe
Somali
Sphynx
Tonkinese
Small or Dwarf Cats
If your cat weighs lower than 4kg despite it being full grown, you likely have a dwarf cat! Small cats are rather easy to identify because there aren’t many of them.
Here are some small cat breeds:
Devon Rex
Munchkin
Cornish Rex
American Curl
Singapura
Bambino
Kinkalow
#2 Face Shape
There are cats that display certain face shapes which can narrow down the list. Hence, if you think that your cat has a certain face shape, this section is for you!
Flat-Faced Cats
Flat-faced cat breeds are known as brachycephalic breeds. They have shorter skulls compared to other typical cat breeds. In some breeds, like Persians, it is considered desirable to have this trait as it makes them unique.
Unfortunately, they can be vulnerable to a plethora of health problems. Here are some common problems that they can face:
Birthing complications
Vision problems
Dental health problems
Respiratory infections
Breathing difficulties
Here are some common flat-faced cat breeds:
Bombay
British Shorthair
Burmese
Burmilla
Exotic Shorthair
Munchkin
Persian
Scottish Fold
Selkirk Rex
Narrow-Faced Cats
Narrow-faced cats have triangular faces. There are even fewer narrow-faced cat breeds compared to flat-faced ones.
Here are some common narrow-faced cat breeds:
Siamese
Cornish Rex
Abyssinian
Sphynx
#3 Ears
Your cat’s ears can be a giveaway to its breed if it displays certain traits. For example, only a few breeds have folded or curled ears. These ear shapes are often caused by genetic mutations.
Curled Ears
Curled ears are like arch-shaped. It curls backwards and sticks up high. It almost looks like a set of small horns. Here are the few breeds that display this trait:
American Curl
Highlander
Folded Ears
Cats with folded ears are a result of genetic mutation which can cause some health issues. These health issues include deformities, arthritis, deafness and infections. The gene that causes their ears to fold affects their cartilage throughout their bodies. Scottish Folds are the only breed that displays this trait. So, if your cat displays this trait, it has some Scottish Fold in its genetic makeup.
Tufted Ears
Ear tufts or lynx tips are tufts of fur growing from the tips of a cat’s ears. Similarly, ear furnishings are hairs that grow inside a cat’s ears. There are quite a few cat breeds that display this characteristic.
Birman
Highlander
LaPerm
Maine Coon
Nebelung
Norwegian Forest Cat
Persian
Ragdoll
Siberian
Turkish Angora
Turkish Van
#4 Eyes
Cats have a wide range of eye colours. Here are some common eye colours for cats:
Brown
Hazel
Gold
Green
Blue
There are some cats which have two different eye colours, known as heterochromia. Only a few breeds can display it, as it is a genetic anomaly.
Here are some breeds that portrays this trait:
Russian White
Ragdoll
Van Kedisi
Oriental Shorthair
Persians
Turkish Van
Turkish Angora
Himalayan
Cornish Rex
Persian
Japanese Bobtail
#5 Coat
Cats have many different coat types. Many breeds are known for having a specific type of coat. Determining your cat’s coat type can make it much easier for you to identify its breed.
Long Haired Cats
Long Haired cats have long and fluffy coats, making them appear much larger than they are. They shed quite a bit due to their thick fur. Some longhaired cat breeds include:
American Longhair
Balinese
Birman
British Longhair
Domestic Longhair
Himalayan
Long-Haired Siamese
Maine Coon
Norwegian Forest Cat
Persian
Turkish Angora
Short Haired Cats
Short Haired Cats have short fur which need less grooming compared to longhaired cats. Here are some common breeds with shorthair:
Abyssinian
American Curl
American Shorthair
Bengal
British Shorthair
Egyptian Mau
Exotic Shorthair
Havana Brown
Korat
Manx
Ocicat
Oriental Shorthair
Russian Blue
Tonkinese
Curly-haired Cats
Curly-haired cats have curly coats which are more difficult to maintain. They tend to tangle more compared to straight coats. Depending on its length, curly-haired cats can be classified as short haired or longhaired cats. Here are some common curly-haired cats:
American Wirehair
Cornish Rex
Devon Rex
LaPerm
Selkirk Rex
Hairless Cats
These cats are easy to identify due to their unique looks. Hairless cats lack fur coats and they are popular with people who suffer from cat allergies. There aren’t many of these hairless cat breeds, so here are the breeds:
Bambino
Donskoy
Elf Cat
Peterbald
Sphynx
Ukrainian Levkoy
#6 Colour, Patterns and Markings
Certain colours, patterns and markings are specific to certain breeds. Adding this clue to the list can help you better determine your cat’s breed.
Solid Colour
Cats that display one colour are solid-colored cats.
Bi-Colour
As the word suggests, bi-colour cats display two colours on their bodies. One of their colours is their main base colour, and the second is white. Some of the bi-coloured coats cats include:
Maine Coon
Manx
Exotic Shorthair
Cornish Rex
Tortoiseshell
Similar to bi-coloured cats, they have two colours on their bodies. Instead of white in their coats, they have a secondary colour mixed into the base colour.
Callico
These cats are rare, with only one in 1,000 cats being calico. They have three colours in their coats and one of the colours is white. Most of the calico cats are females and not all breeds can produce calico cats. Here are the breeds that can:
Manx
American Shorthair
Maine Coon
British Shorthair
Persian
Arabian Mau
Japanese Bobtail
Exotic Shorthair
Siberian
Turkish Van
Turkish Angora
Norwegian Forest Cat
#7 Points
These cats have coloured points, meaning its face, feet, ears and tail display dark coloration. The points and the base coat colour can come in any colour. Not every breed can display coloured points. Here are some breeds that can:
Balinese
Birman
British Shorthair
Exotic
Highlander
Himalayan
Javanese
Ragamuffin
Ragdoll
Siberian
Tonkinese
#8 Tail
Cat’s tails wouldn’t offer you much insight as most cats have pretty standard tails. However, there is a type of tail that can be a big clue to help identify your cat’s breed. Short tails. Few breeds display short tails. Here are some breeds that have this trait:
American Bobtail
Cymric
Japanese Bobtail
Kurilian Bobtail
Manx
Pixiebob
Trying to guess your cat’s breed is a difficult task. Using the traits covered in this blog, it can help give you some clues and simplify the process. Try your best to identify its breed using this blog. However, if you are still unsure, you can always take your cat to the vet for genetic testing, which will give you a far more accurate answer than you could determine on your own. We love cats of all breeds! We hope you do as well!
Dogs are the most common pet in the world. They are usually known as ‘man’s best friend’ as they offer great friendship to people. Thus, it is not a surprise that many Singaporeans have dogs as pets. However, do you know what are the top dog breeds in Singapore?
Find out why these 10 dog breeds are popular in Singapore!
Pomeranians as known as, ‘Pom Pom’, have been a popular choice of family pets for a long time. The ‘Pom Pom’ has won the hearts of many families across Singapore with their petite size and foxy look.
Some interesting facts about the Pomeranian.
Pomeranians make wonderful therapy dogs. You might not think that Pomeranians could be service dogs, but they are very talented. They can be therapy dogs due to their loving and affectionate nature. Additionally, they can be medical alert dogs that keep an eye on their owners with diabetes.
Sensitive to temperature. Pomeranians do not enjoy going out in bad weather as they might get cold. Moreover, they do not enjoy the heat either. One good way to help cool your ‘Pom Pom’ in Singapore would be to bring them to swimming pools.
Bark like they are big dogs. Pomeranians make fantastic guard dogs as they get suspicious of strangers. But, this may be a problem if you have neighbours. It is important to socialise your Pomeranian early to avoid dog aggression.
Poodles are originally bred to hunt waterfowl. They are the most recognizable of all dog breeds due to their stylish looks. They are not only pretty, but also smart.
Some interesting facts about the Poodle.
Poodles come in three sizes, but all follow one breed standard. We have Toy Poodles, Miniature Poodles and Standard Poodles. They all fall under the same breed despite their sizes.
Regardless of their size, they are highly active dogs. Poodle owners should give their dogs lots of exercise. They would enjoy a good game of fetch, jogging or long walks. As they are great water dogs, swimming is a great option for them to exercise.
They are fantastic service dogs. Poodles are one of the smartest dog breeds. Their eagerness to please along with their intelligence make them great service dogs. They can also be guide dogs, assistance dogs and therapy dogs.
Labradors have fans not only in Singapore but all over the world! Labradors are not only amazing pets but also amazing companions. Unfortunately, due to their big size, they are not allowed in HDB flats.
Need their exercise. Labradors were initially bred for physically demanding jobs. And that is why they are usually seen working with the military or as guide dogs. Thus, they need their exercise. Lack of exercise can cause them to vent their energy in other ways, such as destroying anything they can fit in their mouths.
Mild mannered. Labradors are intelligent, energetic and have a good natured character. Hence, they are perfect additions to the family with or without kids.
Chihuahuas are charming, smart and sassy. Even though they are the world’s smallest dogs, they are big in personality. The origin of the Chihuahua is not known. There have been two main theories. The first being that he descended from a Central or South American dog known as the Techichi. The second is that Spanish traders brought small hairless dogs from China to Mexico. They were then bred with small native dogs.
Some interesting facts about the Chihuahua.
Chihuahuas live for a long time. Most Chihuahuas live to be at least 10 years old and can live up to 18 years old.
Miniature Schnauzer has a big heart, intelligent and are fun loving dogs. Due to their playful nature, this breed makes great family pets. They usually get on well with children but always keep them under close supervision.
Some interesting facts about the Miniature Schnauzer.
Shed very little. As they shed very little, they are a dog that even the worst allergy sufferer can live with. As a bonus, you will not have dog hair in your house. But, they have to go for grooming every six weeks.
They can be your perfect buddy! Miniature Schnauzers can be great exercise buddies. They are able to walk several miles with you. They are also happy laying on the sofa or on your lap with you.
Excel in sports. They are an inquisitive and competitive breed that can be quite athletic and thrive in many sports.
Golden Retriever, the happiest looking dog! Originating from Scotland, they were initially bred to hunt waterfowl. Even till now, Golden Retrievers are often seen working with humans for various jobs.
Some interesting facts about the Golden Retriever.
Golden Retrievers are great for families as they are very friendly.
They need plenty of exercise as they were initially bred as working dogs.
Comes in various shades of gold. Their fur color usually darkens as they grow older.
A gentle and fearless dog breed, the Maltese greets everyone as a friend. Even though they are purebred dogs, you may find them in the care of shelters or rescue groups. Remember to adopt if you can!
Some interesting facts about the Maltese.
Have an irresistible face. They have dark, round eyes which makes them seem both alert and gentle. Pair that with the black button nose and the long head hair, often tied back with a ribbon. The Maltese is stunning on the show floor.
Tiny athletes. Maltese are agile, talented and trainable. They enjoy competitive sports like agility and obedience.
It is too easy to spoil a Maltese. Maltese have learned how to get their way. They can get what they want, even from owners who intend not to spoil them.
International breeding resulted in mixed-breed dogs, Mongrels. Usually rescued by animal shelters. Mongrels tend to grow rather big and hence they are not approved by HDBs.
Mongrels are seen living in the dumpster or in our concrete jungle. Singaporeans are giving these dogs a chance at a better life. However, many Mongrels still run wild within the confines of our concrete jungle.
The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) provides information for those who wish to adopt one of these. For those who are interested, head over to the SPCA website. Check out their adoption section, or head down to check out the dogs/puppies that are available for adoption.
Jack Russel Terriers have been a well liked breed in Singapore. They are small sized and have a playful nature. Even though JRTs are small and can fit into any living space in Singapore, they are one of the most active dogs.
*IMPORTANT*
If you intend to bring JRTs into your family, you have to ensure that they get enough exercise on a daily basis. If you are unable to do so, JRTs may not be the dog breed for you. Unfortunately, there are many cases in Singapore where owners abandon their JRTs.
Moreover, JRTs do make great companions and are great additions to your family.
Some facts about the JRT.
JRTs do not do well in small spaces. Due to their hyper activity, it is almost a must to walk them daily. They need large spaces to vent off their hyper activity.
Best to play catch with! They were first bred as hunting dogs. With their amazing speed and dexterity, they are awesome to play catch with.
Need regular grooming. They shed a lot…A LOT. They need to shed to maintain their health coat. So, be prepared to groom and brush them regularly.
Did you expect this? Shih Tzu is simply adorable. Their name “Shih Tzu” means “Lion Dog”. Shih Tzu may look fierce but there is nothing fierce about them. They are affectionate, happy and outgoing.
Some facts about the Shih Tzu.
Prone to heat stroke. Due to their flat face shape, the air inhaled is not efficiently cooled unlike other dogs.
More than 1,000 years old. The breed’s ancestry goes back even further than that. Records show that short, square, “under the table” dogs existed in China as early as 1,000 B.C.
Also called “Chrysanthemum-Faced Dogs”. That is because Shih Tzu’s hair on their faces grows in every direction.
Ever wonder how pests get into your pets’ food? You might be afraid that it would harm your pet. Fret not, in this blog, we will be covering the common pests that are in your pet’s food. Additionally, providing some tips on keeping your pet food pests free!
Let’s begin with common pests that are in your pet’s food.
Warehouse beetles can infest an extensive selection of grocery commodities and pet food. The females lay around 90 eggs in a lifetime. Adult beetles can live from one to five weeks. They tend to thrive in warm and moist environments.
What can you do about Warehouse Beetles? Warehouse beetles can cause intestinal discomfort if ingested. First, you can try to locate the source of the infestation. Try to find small openings in the pet food packages. Then, remove the infested parts.
Indian Meal Moth, as known as, Meal Moth, Flour Moth, Weevil Moth or Grain Moth. They often feed on grain products, cereals and pet food. The Indian Meal Moth larvae feed on dry food such as pet food. They are able to chew through plastic bags and thin cardboard. They would often leave silk webbings around the infested parts which you will be able to tell.
What can you do about Indian Meal Moths? Although they do not cause any harm when ingested, it is still best to remove the infestation. First, try to locate the area where significant silk-like cocoons are at. Then, clean the area with vinegar or soap and water. Discard infested food products and containers to make sure it is 100% removed.
Red Legged Ham Beetles or Copra Beetles are the most common bugs in pet food. They are difficult to kill compared to other bugs due to their resilient nature. They are usually attracted to meat such as dried meats and stored fish.
What can you do about Red Legged Ham Beetles? The best way to deal with these is to seal and dispose of the infested products. And this is because they are persistent and difficult to kill.
Sawtoothed Grain Weevils are tiny. And, they can squeeze through cracks to infest dry goods. The females can lay more than 250 eggs and can live up to three years. They are often found in dried food such as cereal and dog food.
What can you do about Sawtoothed Grain Weevils? Sawtoothed Grain Weevils does not cause any significant harm to pets when ingested. But, you should remove infested products. The reason is damage caused to the products can stimulate bacteria and fungus growth.
Flour Weevils feed on cereal grains, and are a common pest in many areas. They are usually attracted to grains that are going to or already gone bad. They can lay up to 500 eggs in their life span which is about a year.
What can you do about Flour Weevils? Even though Flour Weevils do not cause any harm to pets, it is best to remove the infested parts.
Dried herbs and plant materials with dried food products attract Drugstore Beetles. These pets are so unnoticeable that they can live in your home for a long time without you knowing. The only trace that they live behind is puncturing of food product packaging.
What can you do about Drugstore Beetles? Drugstore Beetles are likely to bite through an unopened food package. Try to discard opened packages. Or if you notice infested packages, discard it.
Ants are resilient pests, once they find a way in, they will keep coming. Ants are common and are often found scarfing different types of food. They are not as good at mining into packaged products like beetles. But, if there is an opened container of food or an unsealed bag, they would likely seize the opportunity.
What can you do about Ants? Ants are not harmful in small quantities. But, you should remove it to prevent potential complications that can happen. First, remove everything from the storage area. Then, use a strong vinegar (10% vinegar) and water solution to disinfect the area. This solution will not cause any harm to your pets or food products. Remember to pay attention to the cracks and edges as pests tend to hide there.
How can you prevent bugs in pet food?
Now we will be sharing some proper storage of different types of pet food.
Dry Food
Inspect the product for damages before you buy it at the pet shop.
If the product is purchased online, inspect it for damages before opening it.
Inspect the product thoroughly for signs of infestation after opening it.
Do not:
Leave the bag open for an extended period as this will expose it to both air and moisture.
Store your pet food in outdoor areas.
Store dry pet food in warm areas.
Dump the food into another container.
Try to:
Store the food in a cool dry place such as a kitchen pantry or cabinet.
Keep it in the original bag/box as these food packaging.
Store the bag of food in a plastic, metal or glass container with the bag.
Close the bag tightly and keep it sealed with a clip, try to make it as air tight as possible.
Canned Food
Check expiration date before purchase.
Try to:
Store opened cans in the refrigerator, but for no more than five days.
Freeze the food in single portions if not used within five days.
Discard opened cans that have been left at room temperature for more than three hours.
Raw Dog Food/Home-cooked Food
Take note of the expiration date on the product.
Read the feeding directions thoroughly.
Make sure to keep dehydrated food away from moisture as it can cause mould to grow.
Keep the food tightly sealed in its original package or transfer it to a glass container with an airtight lid.
Always inspect the package of raw dog food before you purchase it for any signs of damage.
Take note if the food can be refrigerated or frozen for any length of time.
Always read the directions and pay close attention to the handling instructions.
Try to:
Cut purchased meat into portions and immediately freeze what you won’t use within one or two days.
Wrap ready to freeze meat well and seal it in an airtight container. Frozen products usually have a shelf of four to six months.
As a pet owner, we would want our furry ones to be healthy and stay a long time with us. Hence, we have to bring them to the vet to ensure that they are in good shape. However, not all pet owners know which vet is suitable for their pets. For this reason, we are going to introduce some vets in Singapore for your furbabies!
Passion Vet is the vet to go to if you follow the Chinese medical approach. Additionally, they are open daily which means you can drop by any day for your pet emergency concerns.
Main Services: Deworming, Acupuncture, Blood Tests, Dental Scaling, Vaccinations, Microchipping, Hospitalisation, Soft Tissue Surgery, and Ultrasound.
Address: Blk 111 Woodlands Street 13, #01-86, Singapore 730111
Pet Avenue is perfect for pets that are afraid of leaving their homes. They provide house call services done in the comfort of your own home. But, it is expensive as a consultation itself already costs $130.
Main Services: Hospitalisation Care, Dermatology, Dentistry, Internal Medicine, Nutrition, Consultation, Emergency Services, Surgery, and Home Visits.
Beecroft Animal Specialist and Emergency Hospital caters to a wide range of pets. They provide medical and surgical emergency and critical care, 24 hours a day and seven days a week. Furthermore, they provide patient transport services.
Main Services: Wellness Exams, Comprehensive Diagnostics, Spay and Neuter, Orthopaedic Surgery, Medical Grooming, Soft Tissue Surgery, Advanced Dental Care, and Nutritional Counselling.
Address: 991E Alexandra Rd, #01-27, Singapore 119973
Oasis Vet Clinic is perfect for cat owners. It has been certified by the International Society of Feline Medicine. Furthermore, they have an open-door policy. Meaning you can either walk-in or make an appointment.
Main Services: Consultations, Health Screenings, Preventative Care, Blood Pressure Management, Skin Allergy Investigation, Eye Examinations, Surgeries, and Vaccinations.
Advanced Vet Care provides emergency services 24 hours, 7 days a week. Their screening services are in-depth and comprehensive. Furthermore, they offer cancer treatment services.
Main Services: 24-hour emergency services.
Address: 18 Jalan Pari Burong, Picardy Gardens, Singapore 488684
Vet@RV is suitable for pet owners who are busy in the day as they provide night consultations. They are able to treat a wide range of pets, from cats to hamsters.
Main Services: Consultations, Dermatology, Surgical Services, Health Screenings, Wellness Checks, Vaccinations, Prenatal and Postnatal Checkups, Deworming, Microchipping, Blood Chemistry, and Dental Care.
As a loving owner, it is common to give your doggie treats. However, when is it too much? Even the most attentive pet parents may face the problem of their dogs being overweight. The extra weight on your pooch may cause potential health issues and we want to limit that. So, we present… Ways for you to check if your dog is overweight!
#1 Try to feel for Your Dog’s Ribs
Your dog’s ribs should not be extremely prominent. You should be able to feel the ribs without pressing on them too hard. However, if it is difficult to feel their ribs, it means that they are overweight.
#2 Notice Your Dog’s Behaviour
Dogs that are overweight will possess traits such as inactivity. They might have difficulty in walking, breathing and generally have trouble moving around.
#3 Weigh Your Dog
The best way to see if your dog is overweight is to bring them for a weigh in at the vet. The vet will be able to tell whether your dog is overweight based on their size and breed.
Now that we know how to identify if your dog is in shape, we can discuss the ways that you can help your overweight doggie.
#1 Fun Exercises
It is important for animals to have their daily exercises to ensure that their mental and physical health is top notch. So, for overweight doggies, it is extremely crucial to keep to scheduled exercise regimens and do exercises that they will enjoy. This will help with both their mental and physical health.
A good way to exercise together with your dog is to go swimming with him. These dog-friendly swimming pools in Singapore are great destinations to help your dog burn the calories.
#2 Scheduled & Portioned Feedings
Since your dog is overweight, it means that they are already eating more than needed. Thus, it is important to create a schedule for their feedings and control their portion sizes. Treats should be considered and subtracted accordingly from their daily meals.
#3 Regular Checkup at the Vet
Remember to bring your doggies to the vet for regular checkup so that the vet can keep track of their weight. You’ll be able to learn the types of food to feed your dogs to ensure that they are at a healthy weight.
One way to understand more about your cat’s emotions and wellbeing is to look into their body language. Not sure what your cat means? Go through the list below to better interpret what your cat’s body language might be telling you.
Tail held high: When a cat holds its tail high, it can signal that it is friendly and relaxed. The higher the cat’s tail, the more confident it may be.
However, if its tail raises high with fur erect and puffed out, it usually indicates alarm or potential aggression. As it becomes more unsure or fearful, its tail is more likely to slink lower.
Wagging of tail: When a cat’s tail begins to wag back and forth, it would mean that an unfriendly encounter or predatory attack is about to occur.
Closed mouth: For cats, they have closed mouths when they are relaxed.
Ears up for greeting: Confident cats will normally hold their ears forward and alert when greeting people. If their ears move backwards or twitch, it may indicate that they are feeling uncertainty or that an encounter is not going well.
Turning to the side: Cats may turn their bodies to their side when attempting to shut off a potential threat. They do this to appear larger and more threatening to their opponent.
Lying belly up: When cats are lying down with their belly up, they usually do so in self-defense. This position allows them to have all four paws with claws drawn, ready to react to any threat.
However sometimes, cats may lie on their backs for people they are close to, but do not rub their bellies! Very few cats enjoy having their bellies rubbed and may respond aggressively.
Raised Hackles: When a cat feels frightened or overstimulated, the hair on their back and tails fluffs and stands on end. Usually, this would mean that they are ready to react.
Pupil Dilation and Blinking: Cats’ pupils dilate when they are afraid or getting ready to attack. However, pupil dilation can also indicate high arousal in cats. Eye blinking indicates the desire for a peaceful greeting. If there is direct eye contact without blinking or looking away, it can signal a challenge in cats.
Compacted Body: When a cat is afraid of something, it will make its body appear as small as possible, usually with its head held low. If a cat curls its tails underneath its bodies, it could indicate that the cat is feeling extreme fear.
Whiskers Stiffened: Cats have a normal height and structure to their whiskers. If they are stimulated by something and are about to react, their whiskers are more likely to stiffen and extend outward.
Panting: Panting in cats could mean that they are highly stressed or frightened. However, if a cat is panting but it is not interacting with anyone or is not in a fearful situation, it could indicate a serious health condition. Bring your cat to a veterinarian immediately if this happens.
Yawning: Cats may yawn as a calming behavior in conflicting situations.
Dog body language gives off important cues on a dog’s emotion and intentions. Being able to read your dog’s body language accurately constitutes an important step towards effectively communicating with your dog. Below tips may help you understand your canine better.
Tail Held High: When a dog holds its tail high, it often signals high arousal and the possibility of aggressive behavior. An agitated and aggressive dog may also flick its tail back and forth vigorously.
In a relaxed state, a dog is more likely to carry its tail in a neutral position, extended out behind it.
Wagging of Tail: When dogs wag their tails, they wag loosely back and forth at a medium height. It would mean that they are being friendly. It could also mean they are feeling excitement.
Closed Mouth: Relaxed dogs may have closed or partially open mouths. When a dog is feeling tense, they will tightly close their mouths, and yawning or panting heavily could indicate stress.
Ears Up for Greeting: One sign of a friendly dog is that its ears move back just slightly. A submissive dog will move its ears even further back as an appeasement gesture. Dogs with erectly pricked ears may signify that they are ready to stand their ground against another animal if necessary – but this behavior is specific to individual dogs.
Turning to the side: Dogs may turn their bodies to the side to shut off a potential threat. When dogs turn to their side, it could mean that they are trying to show that they mean no harm.
Raised Hackles: When dogs are feeling frightened or overstimulated, the hair on their back and tails will fluff out and stand on end. It may also indicate that they are ready to react.
Pupil dilation and blinking: A dog’s pupil dilate when they are afraid or are getting ready to attack. They could feel fearful or aggressive. However, dilation of pupils can also indicate high arousal. Eye blinks could indicate desire for a peaceful greeting, while direct eye contact without blinking or looking away can signal a challenge.
Compacted Body: When a dog is afraid of something, its body may appear as small as possible. Usually with its head held low. If a dog curls its tails underneath its bodies, it may also indicate extreme fear.
Whiskers Stiffened: When dogs are stimulated by something and are about to react, their whiskers are more likely to stiffen and extend outward.
Panting: When dogs pant, it could indicate various things. Sometimes, it means they feel stressed or frightened. However, panting usually helps them to cool down because they are unable to sweat like humans do.
Yawning: Dogs’ yawning sometimes indicates that they are stressed. However, it can also be a form of communication between other animals. Oftentimes, when a dog is facing an aggressive threat, they might offer a yawn to show that they are not interested in any sort of conflict.
Cats can eat some human food, but it depends on what and how much they try to eat. If you want to feed them human food, do make sure that you feed appropriately sized portions and avoid anything that will make them sick. Here are some foods that are safe and unsafe for your kitties.
Safe to eat
Cheese
Cheese in limited amounts is ok, most cats are lactose intolerant, so do not give too much.
Rice
It wouldn’t hurt your cat to eat it in moderation although it is not a normal part of a cat’s diet.
Tuna
It is ok, but they need other food to get the nutrients they need.
Bacon
It is safe, but limit it to an occasional thing as bacon is dense in calories, eating a lot will have immediate side effects and will make them sick.
Raw chicken
It is good to feed.
Pork
Only safe in limited and infrequent amounts.
Salmon
Cooked salmon is ok, but try to limit the quantity as they may get addicted to it.
Oatmeal
In small quantities it is ok to avoid any stomach issues.
Unsafe to eat
Chocolate
They can’t eat it at all, and cats recognize it as toxic, so they would rarely try to eat it on their own.
Eggs
It should be avoided, but 1 or 2 probably won’t hurt your cat. There are proteins in eggs that can block specific nutrients that cats need. Cook the egg to avoid Salmonella and E Coli.
Peanut butter
The consistency might cause choking.
Bread
Safe to eat, as long as it is not heavy in yeast, as consuming too much yeast may mess with their stomach.
Popcorn
Despite being non-toxic for them, it can cause choking which is unsafe for them.
Ham
Your cat should not eat ham, processed meat usually has high amounts of sodium and preservatives, which are hard for cats to digest.
Yogurt
Non-dairy based yogurt is ok, most cat breeds are lactose intolerant and they will have a hard time digesting anything that is milk-based,
Ice cream
Non-dairy should be fine but not the regular ice cream.
Having your dog give you puppy eyes whenever you eat your food is definitely hard to resist, so here are some foods which are okay to give your dog! First of all, dogs are carnivorous, meaning the primary component of their diet should be meat. However, they aren’t only meat-eating, dogs can eat fruits and vegetables as well. When deciding on your dog’s diet, it should primarily revolve around these foods.
Proteins
All meat should be cooked and bones should be removed to avoid any choking hazards. It is also important to note that not all dogs are able to take lactose. Here is a list of what’s suitable:
Chicken
Turkey
Pork
Lean beef
Fish (salmon and sardine are especially good for dogs)
Cheese (cottage cheese and hard cheese in moderation are safe)
Yogurt (acceptable in moderation)
Fruits
Fruits are high in sugar and should be given in moderation.
Banana
Blueberries
Apples
Seedless watermelon
Vegetables
Carrots
Sweet potatoes
Green beans
Broccoli
Green peas
Grains
Foods that are high in fiber are not good for dogs with high energy requirements, and dogs who are young and growing.
Corn
Quinoa
Oatmeal
Rice
Bread (small amounts of plain bread are okay)
Others
Peanut butter (must not contain xylitol or added sugar)
Coconut
Honey
Popcorn
Unsafe Foods
Chocolate
Grapes
Raisins
Onions
Garlic
Avocados
Lemon and limes
Coffee and tea (it is unsafe for dogs to consume anything with caffeine)
Supplements can provide nutrients that help lower our risk of health problems. They come in different forms, and many people are already taking daily supplements to improve or maintain their health. So, if there are supplements for us people, are there supplements for our pets?
Can my pet take supplements? Yes. But pets cannot take the same supplements as us people take. However, there are supplements that are made specifically for pets.
For dogs and cats, the most popular supplements made for them are meant to support their joints and digestive health, followed by supplements to aid with their cognition, skin and coat, and heart health.
But, do note that pet supplements should be given based on a veterinarian’s advice. Read on more to find out when should you start giving your pet supplements.
How often should I give my pet supplements? Commercial pet foods are already specifically formulated to meet your pet’s supplement needs. However, pets with particular health and wellness concerns can always take supplements, as instructed by a veterinarian. If you are concerned whether or not your pets require supplements, take them to a vet to get an expertise recommendation.
What are the symptoms that indicate it’s time to bring my pet to a veterinarian? You can look out for your pet’s coat. If it seems poor, it could indicate skin, metabolic, or hormonal problems. If your pet’s seem to have weaker bones/joints, it could also be a sign of arthritis.
There are also digestive problems when it comes to your pets. Take note of any unusual change in their digestive routine (i.e. sudden vomiting, less appetite, difficulty passing motion, Etc.). Bring them to a vet for a check-up if there are any unusual changes.
The vet should recommend certain supplements to your pet, and advise accordingly on how often should you give your pet supplements.
In conclusion, should I give my pet supplements? The answer depends on your pet’s health. Generally, you would want to take them to a veterinarian first for a checkup. It is advisable to get a vet’s recommendation on whether or not and when would your pet need to take supplements.
Besides, pet food that you buy from pet shops contain the necessary amounts of vitamins and minerals that your pet needs. Hence, there’s no need to give your pet any extra supplements, unless they have health conditions or special intake needs, which then you should take them to a vet first.
Animal Lovers League (ALL) is a registered charity and home to over 500 dogs and cats, and the animals under their care consist of vagrant strays, abandoned, traumatized, abused and rescued animals.
ALL is strictly no-kill. They aim to encourage the public to adopt instead of buying animals, and endeavor to rejoin the animals at ALL with loving and committed families. Those interested can also volunteer their time, energy and love to help ALL by taking care of the animals, taking the dogs out for walks and/or other daily necessary tasks.
Causes for Animals (Singapore) is an animal welfare charity to support local animal welfare in Singapore. They employ programs and policies to promote best practice, ethical, sustainable and compassionate treatment of these animals. Therefore, raising awareness for ethical animal treatment.
Don’t worry if you are unable to adopt one, if you want to provide a temporary home, you may contact them to find out more. To find out more about their adoption process, you may visit their website here: (https://www.causesforanimals.com/cas-adoption-centre.html)
They are a registered charity and established in December 2000, as a non-profit organization with the mission to improve the local welfare of stray and abandoned dogs with a strict no-kill policy. After that, they have rehomed over 3000 dogs and have about 150 dogs under their care.
CWS was formed in July 1999 by a group of friends who got together to help community cats and kittens after being outraged by a newspaper report about 5 kittens being burned alive in a box. In 1999, a culling of more than 13,000 cats happened in a bid to control the stray population.
That equated to an average of 35 cats killed every single day. CWS set about to reduce this number with the aim of eliminating it entirely. Their tireless campaigning over the years against the inhumane culling of cats has resulted in a record low of less than 1000 cats put down since 2015.
Hamster Society Singapore is a non-profit, all-volunteer group of animal lovers. They have a need in the community to assist, rescue, foster and rehabilitate unwanted, neglected and abused hamsters.
HSS aims to increase awareness on proper hamster husbandry, resulting in reduce of the neglect, abuse, mistreatment and abandonment of pet hamsters locally, for instance.
In 2002, Ms Jackie Fang purchased 2 adorable baby rabbits from a pet shop out of impulse.
Unfortunately, one passed away immaturely. She went on to purchase 3 more and shortly after, 3 females got pregnant! Eventually within months, she ended up with a family of 24 rabbits.
Since House Rabbit Society was founded in 1988, over 40,000 rabbits are rescued through House Rabbit Society chapters across the United States.
Many of these bunnies had run out of time at animal shelters and were scheduled for euthanasia; others had been deemed “unadoptable” because of age, health, or disposition.
HRS is able to spend time getting to know individual bunnies and can then match them with an appropriate home. We neuter all incoming rabbits, obtain any necessary veterinary care, and attend to their social needs.
