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Why Do Cats Have Whiskers?
A cat’s whiskers are much more than just a facial feature, they are a key part of every feline’s sensory system. Knowing more about your cat’s whiskers can help you protect this sensitive body part and better understand your cat’s needs and behavior. What Is a Whisker? Whiskers are specialized hairs that are thicker, longer, and more sensitive than normal hair or fur. Also called vibrissae, whiskers are composed of keratin – the same protein that makes fingernails and claws – and their follicles have as many as 100-200 nerves associated with them. Cats have from 16-24 whiskers, with the...
Is Your Dog Socializing Enough?
Socializing your dog is the process of exposure and habituation to the environment around it. Socialization is important because in addition to genetics, it is the most important factor in determining the temperament of your dog. A dog’s temperament will determine how well behaved the animal is around other animals and people. A dog that is poorly socialized can be dangerous to others and itself. Socializing your dog should begin when it’s a puppy. Some dogs will already be prone to certain behavior given the genetics and attitude of it parents, but every puppy is impressionable. The period from 3-16...
Dog Treadmills – Is It For Your Dog?
Treadmills may be great for human exercise, but can they be used for dogs as well? If Fido, Spot or Rex wants to walk more than you do, a treadmill might be a suitable solution, but it is important to understand the limitations that treadmill walking presents. About Dog Treadmills Dog treadmills may have the same purpose as human exercise equipment – a moving surface for a long, continuous walk – but there are significant differences. Treadmills for dogs typically have raised sides to prevent the dog from getting its feet, tail or coat snagged in the belt or motor,...