Dog & Cat Articles with Advice from Our Experts

Whether you have a dog, cat or both, our experts are here with all the information and tips you need. We use our Purina expertise to cover topics like dog and cat health, nutrition, behavior, training and more.

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New Kitten Checklist: What Does a Kitten Need?

What does a kitten need in a new home? Beds, toys, litter boxes, grooming tools, food & other supplies are needed when bringing a kitten home. Read about the checklist of items your new kitten needs here.

Articles

How to Stop Excessive Barking
How to Stop Excessive Barking
Most people want their dogs to bark. It's an extra level of protection when a stranger shows up at the door, and it's nice to know that an animal is outside if you live in a rural area. But if your dog doesn't stop barking when you say to, it can be a frustrating experience for you both. Your dog is just doing what's natural and normal, but that doesn't mean you have to live with it. Learn how to stop excessive barking and teach your dog to speak and be quiet on command with these training tips.
Can Dogs Eat Chocolate?
Can Dogs Eat Chocolate?
Chocolate is an extremely popular dessert, but if you're thinking about sharing your treats with your pet, this one may be better left to humans only. Whether you already knew that chocolate was bad for dogs or had heard the news but didn't understand why — and maybe thought just a little bit was OK — this guide answers the question "Can dogs eat chocolate?" It also explains the science behind the answer and provides alternative options when you want to let your dog indulge.
How to Cut Your Dog’s Nails
How to Cut Your Dog’s Nails
Just as you clip your own nails on a regular basis, your dog's nails need to be trimmed as well. Long nails can create health problems and just be uncomfortable for your dog. In the wild, your dog's nails would naturally wear down and stay short, but this doesn't happen in comfortable domestic life. It's normal to be nervous when you first learn how to cut dogs' nails, but with these best practices, you can make the process easier and more enjoyable for both you and your dog.
How to Clean a Dog's Ears
How to Clean a Dog's Ears
Whether your dog's ears are floppy or stand at attention, learning how to clean a dog's ears is an important part of keeping your pet healthy and happy. Most dogs need at least occasional ear cleanings, and those that are prone to infections or buildup might need a freshening up more often. Luckily, cleaning your dog's ears doesn't have to mean a trip to the groomer or vet. Learn how to safely and easily clean your dog's ears at home with this guide.
Can Cats Drink Milk?
Can Cats Drink Milk?
Cats drinking milk is typically the stuff of storybooks and movies — a child rescues a cat, and the first thing they do is feed it a shallow saucer of creamy milk. While events like this are adorable, you might wonder if cats really can drink milk.
Why Do Dogs Eat Grass?
Why Do Dogs Eat Grass?
If you've ever asked the question, "Why do dogs eat grass?" you may have heard answers that cover everything from boredom and hunger to being sick. However, eating grass is actually a normal behaviour for dogs, and most dogs will eat grass at some point in their lives. Here's an overview of why your dog may be eating grass and what you need to do about it.
Dog Won’t Eat Dry Food
Dog Won’t Eat Dry Food
For many owners, it can seem like their dogs are bottomless pits — always hungry and always ready for more — but some dogs just don't have much of an appetite, particularly when it comes to dry food.
Cat Dental Care
Cat Dental Care
Just like it's important that you brush and floss daily and see a dentist on a regular basis, your cat's dental health needs attention too. Whether you have a new kitten and you want to make sure their oral care gets off on the right paw or you're dealing with an older cat with suspected dental issues, here's everything you need to know when it comes to how to take care of your cat's teeth.
10 Tips to Keep Dogs & Cats Happy Indoors
10 Tips to Keep Dogs & Cats Happy Indoors
When it comes to being stuck inside, there’s no doubt that pets can make the time at home feel a whole lot more enjoyable.
Teaching Kids to Care for Dogs & Cats
Teaching Kids to Care for Dogs & Cats
Pets are members of our families, and the bond we share with them is one we also want to nurture in our children.
10 Creative Cat & Dog Enrichment Ideas
10 Creative Cat & Dog Enrichment Ideas
When the whole family is cooped up inside for extended periods, you may find it difficult to come up with new activities for your family and pets.
At What Age is a Dog Considered a Senior?
At What Age is a Dog Considered a Senior?
Your dog has a different life span than humans do, so it can be quite difficult to know exactly when your dog has entered a new stage in their life as a “senior” dog. However, it is important to pay attention to signs of ageing as this life stage can bring on the risk of age-related health challenges and opens up new opportunities for you to optimize your dog’s nutrition. Read on to learn at what age dogs are typically considered a senior and how to recognize signs of ageing in your pet.

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