Parade Pets

This creator shared their night routine as a parent of two skunks, Skank and Echo. In the video, they emphasized the importance of providing their pets with balanced meals, especially those designed for skunks and exotic pets. The creator also shared some enrichment activities they do with their pets, as well as the skunks' feeding routines. The internet had a very surprising response to this video. After all, it's not every day that you see domesticated skunks. 

In the video, the creator behind the YouTube channel skunkguide starts by preparing Skank and Echo's dinner, which includes a variety of items. The first step is skunk kibble, followed by sliced celery to help the skunks with their water intake, sliced carrot, and a spoonful of cottage cheese. 

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https://www.youtube.com/shorts/h9t0w9WJztU

Skank and Echo's parent then adds a taurine supplement, a naturally occurring sulfur-containing amino acid that helps the skunks avoid seizures and supports muscle formation. The final step is calcium, for bone growth and to prevent bone diseases in skunks. 

The creator then feeds each skunk in separate rooms to avoid fights. Skank, an adorable skunk with a pink, purple-ish tail, seems more than happy with her bowl, and the same can be said for Echo. Even the creator's other pet, a cat, seemed to be very interested in the skunks' meal. This means it probably was very yummy, and most importantly, nutritious and healthy. 

Skank and Echo then participate in an enrichment activity: scatter feeding. Skank and Echo's parent spreads additional food around, and the goal is for the skunks to use their sense of smell to locate it. This activity can be beneficial to pets' mental and physical health.

Related: This Chihuahua and Dachshund Duo Are Served a Puppy 'Pawella'—and It's Just Adorable

Being a Parent to Exotic Animals

A pet skunk isn't for everybody. In fact, in some regions, it's illegal. In the United States, just nine states—Florida, Indiana, Michigan, New Jersey, New Mexico, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon and Wisconsin—allow people to have skunks as pets, but require a permit or formal approval.

When you have a skunk as a pet, or any exotic animal, it's important to pay attention to their unique needs as the creator does in the video. Different animals require specific nutrients in their diets and enrichment. If you want an exotic pet, it's important to research them thoroughly. If you have other pets, it's very important to understand whether your exotic pet will get along with other animals.

In the video, the skunks are adorable—and the internet thought so, too. "The internet is capable of making any animal the most adorable animal in the world. I challenge someone to prove me wrong," a user commented. "They're so adorable! I wish pet skunks were legal in Ontario," someone else wrote.

Others were a bit skeptical. "That's enough internet for today," the comment stated. Having an exotic pet isn't everybody's cup of tea, but if done correctly, with the proper permits, formal approvals, and research, it can be a positive experience.

Related: This Bernese Mountain Dog's Everything Shower Routine Is More Elaborate Than Yours

Cats have a way of making impossible jumps look effortless. Just pay attention as they are preparing to make a massive leap. They wiggle their haunches, check the distance, and then they make the jump.

In most cases, that is a successful jump. But sometimes, they fail to understand the distance between their safe spot and the finish line.

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https://www.youtube.com/shorts/DD0aWfAmH74

Gandalf, a confident little cat who has attempted many leaps in her life, is the new star on YouTube—but not because of her successful jump. Instead, he has people cheering for her after her failed attempt.

The brave feline attempted a leap from a table to a drawer, with all the swagger of an Olympic athlete. And for one split second, it looked like she would make it. But then, gravity hit her in the head.

Cats Are Incredible Jumpers

Healthy adult cats can jump about five to six times their body length. Athletic cats can push that distance even further.

Thanks to their powerful back legs and flexible spines, cats are built for explosive movement. Sometimes, however, even the most talented jumpers miscalculate. The surface can be slippery, or the distance can be slightly too far. And sometimes, they overestimate themselves the same way humans do when we think we can carry all the grocery bags in one trip.

The Jump and the Fall

Gandalf is one of three cats in the household. Her human mom found Natilla in a Costa Rican parking lot. Seeing that she is pregnant, they brought her home. Gandalf and Dave are two of her babies.

In the video, Gandalf's mom explained that the feline recently jumped from a chair back. So, she wanted to push her luck even further.

Gandalf's mom tries to prevent her from jumping, saying, "That is too far," in the video. Nevertheless, Gandalf tries to make the jump and falls short.

Related: 7 Cat Breeds Dog Lovers Tend to Like, According to Vets

Why Do Cats Love Testing Their Limits

Cats are natural climbers and explorers. Jumping is part exercise, part instinct, and part curiosity. Indoor cats especially tend to turn furniture into obstacle courses. One minute, they're sleeping in a sunbeam. Next, they're trying parkour off your bookshelf at 2 a.m. Commenters on the post found the jump funny.

One commenter wrote, "That was an amazing backflip right into the 'it never happened' landing stance."

Another joked about Gandalf's math, saying, "the risk I took were calculated, but man I am bad at math."

How to Help Your Cat Make the Jump

While Gandalf failed this jump, she might make the next one. And you can help your cat improve its vertical game.

Encourage play with wand toys that move upward to tell your cat to use the fast-twitch muscles. You can also provide cat highways or tiered shelving to help your cat build the confidence to jump farther and higher.

Gandalf may not have stuck the landing, but she absolutely succeeded at something else: reminding cat owners everywhere that confidence and coordination are not always the same thing.

Related: Pet Parents Are Upgrading to This Oversized Cat Tree Designed Specifically for Maine Coons

Some dogs in shelters end up waiting longer for adoption than others. Whether it's due to age, size, health issues, or breed preference, these canines spend a painful amount of time hoping for a forever home.

Ute the Pit Bull mix has been at the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter for over a year and just needs someone to give him a chance.

@adopt_bret_and_friends

494 days of being looked at and still left behind. Ute is a petite, intelligent, deeply loving pittie mix who continues to hope every time someone walks past his kennel. There’s an adoption event coming up next month, and we even dressed him in a big red bow hoping someone would finally see him. He would thrive as the only pet in a calm home with kids 17+, where he can finally feel safe, understood, and loved. Please help us share Ute so his 495th day doesn’t look exactly like the last 494. ✨ Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter – Wantagh, Long Island, New York 📧 adoption@hempsteadny.gov 📞 (516) 785-5220 Shelter Bio: Ute is a 5-year-old charmer with just the right mix of sweet and independent! This thoughtful guy loves treats, playful moments, and showing off his “sit” skills. Ute may take a minute to warm up to new friends, but once he does, his friendly side shines. With a patient, understanding family, he’s ready to strut his stuff, build confidence, and become the loyal, quirky companion you never knew you needed! #trendingnow #trendingsong #petsoftiktok #dogsoftiktok #tiktokviral

♬ original sound - Bret & Friends 🎸

The TikTok from @adopt_bret_and_friends shares Ute's story and how he keeps getting passed over by potential pet parents.

"494 days of people looking right at Ute and still choosing someone else," the onscreen text explained as the precious Pittie sadly stood alone in his kennel. "Every day, he watches doors open for other dogs, watches them leave, watches them finally become somebody's. And then there's Ute. Still here."

The 5-year-old canine cutie is described in his bio as sweet, independent, and best-suited as the only pet in a calm home with kids over 17 years old so he can feel safe.

"This thoughtful guy loves treats, playful moments, and showing off his 'sit' skills," the caption read. "Ute may take a minute to warm up to new friends, but once he does, his friendly side shines. With a patient, understanding family, he’s ready to strut his stuff, build confidence, and become the loyal, quirky companion you never knew you needed!"

Where to Adopt Ute

Ute is still hoping to find his forever family and is stepping up his presence to attract potential adopters.

An upcoming adoption event will be held next month at the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter in Wantagh, NY, on June 6. Ute will be wearing a bright red bow so he's easy to spot in a crowd, and adoption fees will be waived for the day.

Related: Pit Bull's Wide, Relieved Smile After Realizing He's Out of the Shelter Forever Is Everything

The caption concluded with a plea to give Ute a chance: "Please help us share Ute so his 495th day doesn’t look exactly like the last 494."

For more information on the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter, the upcoming adoption event, or adopting Ute, please visit the shelter's website, email at adoption@hempsteadny.gov, or call (516) 785-5220.

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Kittens aren't tiny for very long, so it's important to soak up all the cuteness while you can. It can be hard sometimes, though, especially when there are other cats in the home. You might be worried that something will go wrong, but it's important to relax, too: exploring is how cats learn.

Next to her big brother (who's still a kitten himself), one Calico kitten looks like a tiny pebble. If I found this pebble on the road, I would definitely be scooping it up and putting it in my pocket:

@natsonthego

my babies 🙂‍↕️ #kittens #fosterfail #cute #baby #cat

♬ awww so cute - Cherri ⁉️

Nat's On The Go a lot, but she never stays away from her babies for very long. This is the first video she's posted of these sweeties, but according to the hashtags, they were foster fails. It's unclear whether they were part of the same litter or not, but I hope so.

I would estimate that this kitten is roughly 2 Chick-Fil-A sauces long (which is not very long at all). She's a rescue and definitely very young, so she might even be younger than 8 weeks, or a little behind on the growth charts. She'll grow up eventually, but it's so cute right now!

Related: Golden Retriever Gets Trapped in ‘Nap Jail’ by the Fluffiest Ragdoll Kittens

These two are new to their forever home, but they're not alone there. They also have a German Shepherd sibling, and next to her, I know they both look tiny! He's adorable, too:

@natsonthego

safe to say he enjoyed his very first beach trip 🥲 if you’re bringing a dog to a beach that specifically requires them to be on a leash… follow the rules! especially if your dog has no manners🫤 #fyp #socal #puppy #beach #sand

♬ Banana Pancakes - Acoustic Heartstrings

His feline sibling probably won't be joining him on beach trips anytime soon, though. The Calico will blend in with the sand and the rocks, and we'll never see her again! It's best for her to stay safe and sound at home.

Do Cats and Kittens Get Along?

When you have two pets with such a size difference, it's natural to get a little bit nervous. One wrong move and things go terribly wrong for the little guy, right? Nobody wants that!

Kitten playing with a cat's tail.

Image via Shutterstock / Andi111

Cats and kittens (or two kittens with a big size difference) can definitely get along. They'll play together, and you'll often find the little one trying to curl up with the bigger one. Being little means it's harder to keep warm. However, to keep everyone safe, you should still:

• Supervise play time.
• Make sure to feed them in separate areas.
• Introduce them slowly at first to make sure they don't attack each other.

Luckily, these two kittens love each other. I hope they both live happily ever after here in their forever home!

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Some dogs escape the yard to chase squirrels. Some go on mysterious neighborhood adventures. And apparently, some quietly sneak into the neighbor’s swimming pool specifically to enjoy the bubbles like they’re visiting a luxury spa resort.

A Golden Retriever named Wynn is currently making the internet laugh after her family revealed the extremely specific reason she broke into the neighbor’s pool.

@wynn_thegolden

When your neighbors get woken up by your dog swimming in their pool #wynngirl #goldenretriever #dogsoftiktok #dog

♬ original sound - Wynn The Golden

TikTok user @wynn_thegolden shared the hilarious clip alongside the caption, “POV: Your neighbors text saying they woke up to your dog blowing bubbles in their pool, and they fed her breakfast.”

Honestly? That may be the best possible text message a person could wake up to.

Related: Mom’s Black Leggings Show the Reality of Living With a Golden Retriever

The video shows Wynn happily paddling around the pool, while sticking her face near the jets and blowing bubbles like a giant furry toddler who accidentally discovered true happiness.

And somehow the entire situation becomes even funnier knowing the neighbors apparently just accepted this immediately and decided breakfast service was now included.

People in the Comments Were Absolutely Obsessed With Wynn’s Priorities:

• “What a great morning your neighbors had.”
• “She said, ‘Turn the jets on, you know, the thing that does this,’ blows bubbles.”
• “She could blow bubbles in my pool anytime!!”
• “It’s so nice of your neighbors to have a pool for your doggo.”
• “Just a girl, living her best life. She said, ‘Look! Bubbles!’”
• “She blessed them, she is a cutie.”
• “World’s greatest neighbors.”

Honestly, Wynn has the exact energy of someone who accidentally discovered a luxury resort and immediately decided she belonged there permanently.

And the fact that the neighbors not only tolerated this but fed her breakfast afterward really says everything about how impossible Golden Retrievers are to resist.

How To Keep Your Dog Safe Around a Pool @ollie.bear.the.golden

Swimming is always a YES 😅 #goldenretrieverlife #goldenretrievers #dogsoftiktok #adoptdontshop #waterdog

♬ original sound - _TotahlyCook’n_

While many dogs love swimming, pools can still pose safety risks if pets are unsupervised or unfamiliar with the water. Pet parents can help keep dogs safer around pools by introducing swimming gradually and teaching their pups how they can safely exit pools using stairs or ramps.

Other Important Pool Safety Tips Include:

• Always supervise dogs around water.
• Teach dogs where pool exits are located.
• Use pet life jackets for inexperienced swimmers.
• Rinse chlorine off fur after swimming.
• Keep fresh drinking water nearby.
• Never assume all dogs naturally know how to swim

And if your pup becomes emotionally attached to pool jets like Wynn apparently has, you may also need very understanding neighbors.

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Parade Pets aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

If you're looking for a comfy dog bed for your pup, then don't sleep on Amazon Pet Days. All sorts of beds and toys are on sale for a limited time, including a highly rated style that's now almost 50% off.

The Bedsure Large Sized Orthopedic Egg Crate Puppy Mat is now only $26 when it normally costs $44. That means it's 42% off for a limited time! The $26 version is 36"x27"x3" and designed for pets up to 65 pounds in weight. At the same listing, you'll find even larger sizes for sale too.

These beds are designed with pressure relieving foam that has a peak-and-valley design to provide the "precise support where pets need it most," including the head, neck, joints and hips. The breathable foam spreads weight evenly and is designed with tiny air channels to facilitate airflow.

These beds have a cloud-soft sherpa fleece top that's skin-friendly. They're made with an easy-to-clean removable cover that can be unzipped, taken off the bed, and washed. The fabric resists shrinking and fading, so it retains its shape over time.

These beds also have an anti-slip bottom that stays securely in place.

Bedsure Large Sized Orthopedic Egg Crate Puppy Mat for $26 (was $44) on Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop it!

These beds have a 4.5 out of 5-star rating with more than 50,000 reviews! Yes, that means more than 37,000 people have rated the beds a perfect 5 out of 5 stars. Customers love the beds' softness, comfort, and how easy they are to wash.

Read below for a snapshot of some of the great reviews left for these beds:

• "The dog bed is soft, looks nice, is lightweight, and worth every penny."
• "This bed is very comfy for the dogs and the cover is easy to wash. I do not see any impressions in it from use and we have had it a few months."
• "We've had these for two years now. They've held up greatly. The dogs seem to love them and prefer them to the other beds."

Amazon offers free shipping on pet supplies shipped by Amazon of more than $35, along with 30-day refunds/replacements.

Related: 'Amazing' Cat GPS Tracker Is 50% Off for Amazon Pet Days — 'Real Peace of Mind'

I'm a firm believer that dogs choose their people and not the other way around. In times of need, they know exactly who to go to for help, and we don't get a say in the matter. It's written in the stars.

One scared and scruffy stray dog recently took shelter on the windowsill of a young family's home. He was too timid and fearful to let them get close, so they watched the sweet pup through their window and accidentally fell in love. What happened next is nothing short of an incredible example of what a little love can do.

View this post on Instagram

Fitness influencer Jordan Syatt, his wife, and their two young girls fell head over heels for the little guy through the window. They left food, water, and a cozy bed for the rescue pup—whom they named Chewy—and he began to let his guard down.

A couple of days later, Chewy trusted them enough to go inside, take him to the vet, and gradually incorporate him into their everyday lives.

With no microchip and no one looking for the precious boy, Chewy became an official member of the family, where he gets endless walks, playtime with his human siblings and Golden Retriever brother Curtis, and most of all, love. It's evident in his very first grooming session that left him looking like a whole other dog!

Related: Stray Dog Living in Abandoned Warehouse Gives Rescuer the Sweetest 'Thank You'

Chewy's first haircut left everyone stunned. The once-matted, scruffy, defeated dog looks entirely different after having the layers of his past shed. Based on his smile alone, it's like he knew finding this family would be his answer—one final hope for a happy ending—and thank goodness, he got it.

How Dogs Choose Their People

Stray dogs who suddenly appear on your windowsill aren't there by chance. At least, that's not what I believe. They gravitate toward certain people based on a combination of the pups feeling safe, wanting to trust, and having a positive feeling or connection to calm energy.

Stray pups who are tired of surviving on their own seek out low-stress interactions that might include food, water, and a bed, just like Chewy received.

His story reminds me of Pluto, the Cocker Spaniel, who walked up to a gym and chose his new mom. Whether you believe in fate or not, it's an amazing responsibility to be chosen by a dog in need. You have the power to change their life.

@pluto_orbits_earth

Our fur babies bring us so much joy. #love #rescuedog #dog #dogsoftiktok #thankful

♬ Classical piano performance "letter to parents" - Popolony

I'm beyond happy that Chewy (and Pluto) knew which humans might help them. Even more so, that those people stepped up to the plate and gave those little sweeties the happy endings they deserve.

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If there's one thing the world needs to know about dogs with puppies, it's that she does not play about her babies. Dogs who have always been sweet as pie and easy to work with will absolutely try to take down anyone who gets too close without her permission, and I love that!

One German Shepherd mom recently had to show that she meant business, and she wasted no time. The one who got a little too close didn't do it on purpose (or at least, they weren't trying to upset her), and her reaction was extreme, immediate, and a little bit awesome:

@jassera.nichole

Talk about a protective mother 🙄 omg but i miss having puppies 🥹 #fyp

♬ original sound - 𝑱𝒂𝒔𝒔𝒆𝒓𝒂 𝑵𝒊𝒄𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒆♡

Jassera Nichole is no stranger to raising puppies, but Nikki the German Shepherd really took things to a whole new level. She was not willing to let the other GSD, Rolie, near those pups. He's their father, too! She couldn't care less. Those are her babies, and no one else should be touching them!

They were still very young at that point: they're still in their whelping box/puppy pen. This video is a little bit of a throwback: now they're grown up, some of them have moved onto their forever homes, and they are allowed to have others within a 50-foot radius. Even dad!

Related: Rescue German Shepherd ‘Rates Dad’s Pets’ and Shows No Mercy

Their dad, Rolie, was just curious about them. Raising puppies is definitely not a team effort: Dad is not expected to do anything or help in any way. Now that they're older, though, he's helping them learn to play:

@jassera.nichole

Everyone meet Father of the year ✨Rolie ✨ #fyp #foryoupage #germanshepherd

♬ original sound - user85614039913

This is so sweet, and exactly what the father of a litter is meant for. He has to teach them how to play and annoy their mom! Rolie is doing a fantastic job.

German Shepherds Are Protective of Their Puppies

If you have a German Shepherd, whether she has puppies or not, you'll know that these dogs are extremely protective. They won't let anything threaten their loved ones. If it's their babies they're protecting, it's even scarier.

German Shepherd snapping at the camera.

Image via Shutterstock / Krasula

When a German Shepherd has puppies, you need to proceed with caution. In order to avoid a biting incident or just generally freaking them out, make sure you:

• Keep mama and her puppies in a quiet, low-traffic area.
• Offer her the chance to take a break and get out, but never force her to leave them.
• Approach their whelping box or pen slowly and calmly.
• If she looks uncomfortable or snaps, try again later.

You should avoid causing her unnecessary stress at all costs. Just ride it out: it'll only be a few months before she starts letting them venture out! Nikki the GSD even lets her baby daddy play with them now!

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Service dogs are incredible, and they do so many essential jobs for the humans they work for. With their ability to see or smell things more acutely than humans, their life-changing care alerts people to issues well before any signs or symptoms can be seen by the human eye. Their focus and dedication are so moving to see!

In this video, we meet a service dog who works with a young girl. In this moment, he knew something was wrong before anyone else, and he refused to relax. His strong sense of responsibility and persistence are impressive and heartwarming. Take a look!

@kennedyst1djourney

He’s not being nosy… Kona alerted quietly before we ever checked her blood sugar. Now he waits… watching every move… because he knows what comes next— 73= cheese! #type1diabetes #servicedog #diabeticalertdog #diabetes #autoimmunedisease

♬ I Don't Wanna Stop - The Bamboos

On April 29, TikToker @kennedyst1djourney shared a video of a young lady named Kennedy and her service dog Kona. Kona appears to be a black-and-white Bernedoodle or another Poodle mix, and while he's incredibly cute, he's also hard at work. He's a service dog for Kennedy, who has Type 1 diabetes, and he's been trained specifically to keep Kennedy safe. 

In this video, we see exactly how Kona works when he detects a change in his human's blood sugar, before anyone else knows. Hovering close to his mom and Kennedy, the incredible service dog refuses to relax, standing totally focused and on guard while Kennedy checks her blood sugar. When the reading is confirmed by the finger poke, he stands to wag his tail—he was right again!

Related: Extremely Rare Saluki Mix Training To Be a Therapy Dog Is Already Practicing Perfect Manners

In the comments, people praised Kona for his incredible work alerting to the blood sugar change. 

One person wrote, "He's not waiting to see if he gets cheese. He's just waiting for you to realize, hahaha."

Another shared, "He doesn't ever miss! You might as well give him the cheese upfront!"

Someone else added, "I just love watching him work! His face tells it all: 'I did good?'"

Other comments included, "Kona is always right!" "Good job, Kona," "He gets all the cheeses he wants," "Love these guys," "Kona the king," and "OMG, that face. Good boy!" 

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How Service Dogs Detect Blood Sugar Changes Before Humans Notice Symptoms 

Kona is such an incredible dog, and he's doing a very important job with his favorite human. It's really amazing what some pups can do, like Kona, who can detect a drop in blood sugar. But how exactly do they do that? Well, that's very interesting, too. 

According to the American Kennel Club, dogs trained as lifesaving diabetic alert dogs can detect chemical changes and alert someone to them. The club explains that dogs like Kona can smell subtle chemicals released when their human's blood sugar is either too high or too low. Humans don't have that ability, but a dog can detect that change in a person's sweat or breath. 

From there, the service dog does what we see Kona do in the video clip. They'll alert someone who knows what to watch for, like their human or a family member, using "specially trained behaviors, such as pawing, licking, vocalizing, or even fetching a blood glucose meter." 

These specially trained dogs can detect these changes, often much sooner than a wearable device can, or before their person feels any physical symptoms from a change in blood sugar. It's a literal lifesaver, and we're so thankful for Kona and other dogs like him doing this incredible work.

Ellie Mae had a very interesting afternoon. And her emotional support lemon was there for all of it.

This mischevious little pup accidentally got into a 10mg Vyvanse capsule—ADHD medication that humans take to focus. What it did to Ellie Mae? Made her extremely, intensely, almost cosmically aware of absolutely everything and nothing all at once. She was locked in like nobody’s business.

The TikTok shows Ellie Mae in what can only be described as a state of profound contemplation. She's sitting. Staring. Processing. Her eyes are locked on something invisible. Her body is still, almost in a meditative state. On the other hand, her mind appears to be operating at speeds previously unknown to canine neuroscience.

"She's getting weird," her human says, filming the moment. "She's getting really weird, guys. She's getting really, really weird."

@k.winter16

She has her emotional support lemon and has been pondering for about 20 minutes now (side note she is okay! Her breathing and heart rate is normal and I’ve been monitoring every hour Im very lucky she is okay!)#foryoupage #dogsoftiktok #fyp #vyvanse

♬ original sound - 🌚

The text overlay: "Someone ate one 10mg capsule of Vyvanse and now is very, very aware of her surroundings."

And sitting right there beside her? Ellie Mae’s adorable lemon. Her emotional support lemon. Just... there. Offering moral support during this unprecedented cognitive experience.

The caption explained: "She has her emotional support lemon and has been pondering for about 20 minutes now (side note she is okay! Her breathing and heart rate is normal and I've been monitoring every hour. I'm very lucky she is okay!)"

The comments absolutely understood the assignment:

"Locked in on absolutely NOTHING 😂"

"She prob teaching herself calculus right now."

"About to form an LLC."

Related: 'A Little Dramatic' Goldendoodle Acts Like He's 'Never Been Fed'—Runs Through Every Trick He Knows

"She doesn't know what she's supposed to be focusing on but she's focused 😭"

"Not a squirrel in the world that can get her attention."

"I know she's hearing colors."

"The definition of lock in 😂"

"She just gained consciousness."

"Bro just doomscrolling memories 😭"

The update came later: "She is back to normal now! She did not show any signs or symptoms of discomfort or stress!"

Crisis averted. Emotional support lemon: job well done. Ellie Mae: returned from the brink of a philosophical void.

What to Do If Your Pet Accidentally Eats Medication

Ellie Mae's story has a happy ending because her human acted fast and monitored her behavior very carefully. But accidental medication ingestion is serious business and requires immediate action.

According to FHE Health, 66 percent of poison-related calls to pet hospitals each year involve human drugs. With nearly 50 percent of Americans taking at least one prescription medication, pets have plenty of opportunities to get into things they shouldn't—drugs included.

If you think your pet consumed some medication:

First thing is first, call a vet immediately. Contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control helpline right away. Time matters.There’s no time to second guess yourslef.

Try to figure out and identify what they ate. Try to determine the specific medication, dosage, and quantity consumed. If you don't know the exact amount, that's fine—but vets will definitely want to proceed with extra caution so always let them know as much as you know.

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Follow professional guidance. If the medication poses a danger, your vet will most likely instruct you to bring your pet in to be seen immediately. They may use activated charcoal to induce vomiting and prevent further absorption of the drugs.

Monitor all vital signs. Watch breathing, heart rate, and behavior closely while getting help. Ellie Mae's human checked her every hour—that attention and vigilance likely made all the difference.

Never try home remedies in this situation. Time is of the essence. Don't attempt to induce vomiting without the help of a veterinary professional. Internet remedies can make things exponentially worse.

Dogs are more likely than cats to eat medications (cats are pickier), but smaller pets face higher overdose risk due to their smaller stature. Your quick action can be the difference between a scary story with a happy ending and a terrible tragedy.

Prevention tips:

• Store all medications in secure containers on high shelves
• Take pills standing over a sink or counter, not near the floor
• Keep prescription bottles clearly labeled and don’t put meds in random bottles
• Never leave medications sitting out

Ellie Mae got very lucky. Her human caught what happened immediately, monitored her closely, and thankfully, Ellie Mae, recovered completely. But not every story ends with a dog pondering the universe with her support lemon and walking away unharmed.

If your pet gets into medication, act fast. Call your vet. And just maybe invest in an emotional support lemon, just in case.

At first, rescuers could barely tell what was covering the tiny kitten’s body. The 6-week-old cat was stiff, sticky, and almost completely coated in industrial-strength adhesive after somehow ending up trapped in a vat of glue.

But thanks to one good Samaritan and hours of careful rescue work, the tiny kitten now has a second chance and an unforgettable name: Elmer.

@cbcnews

A passerby found this four-month-old kitten near an industrial area in Fort Worth, Texas in April. A vet with the local humane society told CBC Radio's As It Happens that Elmer is now happy and healthy. #cats #animalrescue #cbcradio

♬ original sound - CBC News - CBC News

The heartbreaking rescue story was shared by CBS News and reported by ABC News after the kitten was brought to the Humane Society of North Texas, covered almost entirely in industrial glue.

Cassie Davidson, senior director of marketing, communications, and public relations for the Humane Society of North Texas, told ABC News that staff members immediately jumped into action the moment the kitten arrived.

Related: Blind Cat’s Journey After Being Left Behind Feels Different by the End

“We immediately sprang into action. We didn't even ask questions. We were just like, ‘Let's go!’” Davidson recalled.

According to the report, four staff members worked for 7 hours straight, massaging nearly 2 gallons of canola oil into the kitten’s fur in an effort to safely break down the adhesive. During the rescue, they paused to feed the tiny kitten and eventually wrapped gauze around his body to help the oil continue soaking into the hardened glue.

Thankfully, much of the adhesive has now been removed.

The kitten was later named Elmer, which honestly feels like the only possible name after surviving something this bizarre.

People in the Comments Were Deeply Emotional Watching the Tiny Cat Slowly Recover:

• “Elmer has the resilience of a champ.”
• “Great job on saving the little guy and giving him life.”
• “Thank goodness he was rescued.”

Honestly, it's hard to imagine how frightened and uncomfortable such a tiny kitten must have been during the ordeal. But it's equally hard not to feel emotional seeing how quickly complete strangers rallied around him to help.

And the patience involved in sitting for 7 hours carefully working glue out of kitten fur, honestly, says everything about the people involved in animal rescue.

What To Do if You Find a Kitten in Danger Tiny Orange Kitten outside.

Image Via: Adnan Rizqi Akbar/Shutterstock

If you find a kitten trapped, injured, or covered in a potentially dangerous substance, experts recommend contacting a veterinarian or local animal rescue organization as quickly as possible. Certain chemicals, adhesives, or oils can become dangerous if improperly removed at home.

Helpful First Steps May Include:

• Keeping the kitten warm and calm
• Avoiding harsh chemicals or solvents
• Using towels or blankets for gentle restraint
• Contacting emergency veterinary care immediately
• Monitoring breathing and responsiveness
• Providing small amounts of food or water if advised by professionals

Most importantly, acting quickly can make a huge difference, especially for very young kittens like Elmer.

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Maine Coons are basically sweet balls of sunshine as they are. Everybody loves a Maine Coon, and they're just so kind. There's nothing better than one of them... Except when there's a Maine Coon with a super cute coat color.

Case in point, this Maine Coon who's literally walking around looking like he was dipped in sunshine. His fur is the perfect shade of yellow, and it's melting everybody's hearts:

@mossycottagemainecoons

Soft cream and sunshine. 🍨 #mainecoonkitten #goldenhour #ethereal #creammainecoon #mainecoonlovers

♬ Golden Hour - Violin Version - ViOLiNiA Zhanna Stelmakh

Mossy Cottage Maine Coons is the most perfect name for a cattery full of stunny, fairy-core kittens. As the caption suggests, this boy is made of soft cream and sunshine: both of them blend together to create this soft, yet still vibrant color.

His eyes kind of match: they're a little bit of a deeper brown color, but they pair so well with his coat. The entire litter of kittens he's part of is like this, too, though they're not quite as vibrant. Luckily, though, he loves them anyway, and they all love to play together.

Related: Rare Blue Tortie Maine Coon Kitten’s Nose Stripe Is Seriously Mesmerizing

Mossy Garden Maine Coons specializes in European cats, though they don't necessarily aim for rare and outstanding coat colors. They have some standard cats, but they also have these incredible butter yellow boys. There's another one, all grown up:

@mossycottagemainecoons

Only 22 days until Buckeye Bourbon’s 1st birthday! 🥹🖤 I’m excited to announce he’s officially passed ALL of his health testing. 🎉 Beyond excited to see Mini shots of Bourbon running around 😉🥃 #mainecooncat #ethics101 #ourgraduates #mainecoonlovers #healthoverhype

♬ original sound - Mossy Cottage Maine Coons 🌙

This cat is about a year old, so he's not part of the same litter... And although he's literally massive, he's still a baby. He's still got at least 3 years left until he's full-grown. Maine Coons are so crazy to me.

How Many Colors of Maine Coons Are There?

Butter yellow is not a color you see every day when it comes to these cats: more often than not, they're just orange. However, as both boys in these videos prove, they do exist!

An orange/yellow Maine Coon lying down.

Image via Shutterstock / Grisha Bruev

TICA recognizes at least 80 coat variations when it comes to the Maine Coon, and more are constantly being presented. Some are more common than others, though, such as:

• Red (orange).
• Orange Tabby.
• Brown Tabby.
• Grey.
• Black.

Most variations are built off of those colors, like Black Smoke, which is slightly rarer and occurs with a genetic mutation in Black Maine Coons. You can also find Blue Smoke, Tortie, and just about any other color your heart desires if you look hard enough! I think my heart desires these butter yellow ones now, though!

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Some horses are beautiful.

Some horses are powerful.

And then there are the ones who seem to understand, on a spiritual level, that they are being perceived.

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The whole reason people keep asking whether he knows he is that cool is because he absolutely acts like he does. In the video, he's not just existing in front of the camera by accident. He's checking for it. Looking for the videographer. Making sure the audience is there. Carrying himself like a horse who has already accepted that the room belongs to him, and everybody else is just lucky to be standing in it.

This stallion is one of those.

And honestly?

That kind of confidence is magnetic.

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None of this feels forced. He's not puffed up in a nervous way. He's not doing too much. No second-guessing. No shrinking down. No, “Sorry to bother you.” Just full, clean stallion certainty.

That is probably why people can't stop watching him.

Horses are extremely expressive through body language, posture, and attention, and even subtle shifts in where they direct their gaze or how they hold themselves can communicate a lot.

And this horse?

He looks like he's saying, yes, you may film me now.

There's also something a little annoying, in the best way, about how effortless he makes it seem. The rest of us are out here rehearsing emails in our heads and apologizing when someone bumps into us. Meanwhile, this stallion is simply arriving, fully himself, every single day, like self-doubt is a problem for lesser species.

The video isn't just admiring his beauty, his size, or his obvious star quality. It's admiring the way he occupies space without asking permission. People respond to that because deep down, most of us wish we carried ourselves with even half that much certainty.

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He doesn't need a motivational podcast.

He is the motivational podcast.

How To Read Confident Horse Body Language

A horse who looks “confident” is usually showing it through relaxed but attentive posture, a settled body, and clear focus rather than frantic energy or tension. The ASPCA notes that ears, eyes, muzzle tension, and overall posture all help tell you how a horse is feeling, while The Horse emphasizes that reading body language is central to understanding a horse’s emotional state and communication. 

In other words, what people are picking up on here is real. The camera may love him, but he's also giving off the kind of calm, focused presence that makes everyone else fall in line around it. Some animals just have star power. This one happens to come with hooves.

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Related: Retired Racehorse Watches Old Footage of Himself—And His Reaction Is Fascinating

A TikTok from @mostlythedoodle shows us exactly what happens when dinner is announced at his house. Mostly, ‘Momo’ to those who love him, doesn't just get excited. He launches into a full-on Broadway audition—running through his complete repertoire of tricks like his life absolutely depends on it.

Sit. Spin. Paw. Other paw. Lie down. Roll over. Sit again. SPIN FASTER. Smack it up, flip it. Oh no!

The text overlay sums it up the energy in the room: "POV: Food is ready and you act like you've never been fed a day in your life."

The caption adds: "He's just a little dramatic 🤏"

@mostlythedoodle

He’s just a little dramatic 🤏 #dogsoftiktok #dogcomedy #goldendoodles #petparent

♬ Austin Powers Theme (Soul Bossa Nova) - N.Y. Jazz Orchestra

A little bit? Okay, sure. If that’s a little bit, I’m definitely here for 'a lot'. 

Momo smacks the ground with his paws, throws in some extra sassy bonus spins, and cycles through every behavior he's ever been taught in rapid fire succession. It's desperation meets performance art. His mama hasn't even put the bowl down yet, but Mostly is already doing the most.

The comments captured this universal dog experience:

"Not sure if he's responding to commands that I can't see, or just trying every trick he knows. Mine does the latter 😂😂😂"

Related: A Senior Golden Retriever Is 'Blowing Up the Internet' With Dance Moves That Defy His Age

"Smacking the ground like 'it goes HERE! put it HERE!' 😂"

"Mine jumps up and down like Tigger it's so funny."

"Must be the poodle in him! My toy poodle does the exact same thing it's the funniest thing to watch 🥹"

Honestly, every dog parent has witnessed this exact performance—the spinning, the frantic trick display and the theatrical starvation act despite being fed twice daily on schedule. It's mealtime madness in its most pure form.

Why Dogs Turn Into Dramatic Performers at Dinnertime

Here's what's actually happening inside Momo's canine brain when food appears: ancient instincts meeting modern routines in the most extra way possible.

According to FreshPet, dogs are descendants of wolves, and their food excitement traces back directly to survival mode. In the wild, meals weren't guaranteed. Any opportunity to eat triggered urgency and celebration. Domesticated dogs like Momo get fed every single day at the same time, but those primal instincts haven't gone anywhere so they get excited every single time.

That's why dinnertime feels like a celebration even though it happens literally every single day—at the same time, no less.

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Dogs also thrive on routine and anticipation. They're pattern-recognition experts and fast learners. The sound of the fridge opening, the time of day, footsteps toward the food storage area—dogs pick up on every single tiny cue that signals "food is coming." That’s survival. That food anticipation builds into what we know as mealtime madness.

For Mostly (‘mostly a bear, partly a doodle’), the second he hears food preparation sounds, his brain goes: "FOOD. DO EVERYTHING. SHOW ALL SKILLS. PROVE WORTHINESS. SPIN MORE." Momo is doing it for the plot.

There's science behind this behavior too. Dogs have incredibly powerful noses—far superior to any humans. They can smell what's in their food before the container even opens. They can tell the difference between fresh ingredients and processed kibble. When something truly delicious is on the way, their excitement reaches peak levels. My Frenchie has toppled me more than once trying to run to his bowl.

FreshPet mentions that dogs naturally are drawn toward what smells richer and more appealing. Real chicken, beef, vegetables—their noses know quality. That's why the pre-meal performance can be so extra and feel ‘too much’ sometimes.

Momo's trick repertoire performance? That's him negotiating. Offering his entire skill set as payment. Spinning as fast as physics allows. Smacking the ground like "RIGHT HERE, THIS SPOT, NOW PLEASE." He’s definitley excited.

Is it dramatic? Absolutely. Is it also the most adorable thing you'll see all day? Also, yes.

The irony isn't lost on anyone watching: Mostly gets fed every single day. He's never missed a meal in his life. And yet, every single time, it's an Oscar-worthy performance of a dog who's never encountered food before in his entire life.

Dogs and cats with physical challenges are remarkably resilient. These fur babies find creative ways to navigate the world around them and live life to the fullest.

Ryder the orange cat is a wonderful example of taking certain obstacles in stride. The pretty kitty's back legs are paralyzed, yet he gets around in style.

@lowryderkitty

His head tilts get me every time 🥺 #ParalyzedCat #SpecialNeedsCat #CuteCats #Catsoftiktok #ViralPets

♬ original sound - Rubina

In the TikTok from @lowryderkitty, the feline fur baby was chilling on the couch and showing off his adorable head tilts. While Ryder's over-the-top adorableness was completely eye-catching, the bright green casts on his legs are what made you stop and stare. They looked like a combination of leg warmers and high-end shoes.

Ryder is obviously a feline with his paw on the pulse of fashion. He modeled the leg wear with confidence and struck a pose like a pro. Followers were quick to notice his sense of style and air of sophistication.

"He looks like he is sitting in a very classy and glamorous way," one remarked.

"That looks like some fancy green heels," another noted.

"He’s sitting like he has high heels on," a follower commented.

"Those look like platform boots," someone pointed out.

"Such a distinguished gentleman," a fan posted.

Ryder the Cat's Story Is So Inspiring

A previous post on the social media account shared Ryder's background and how he was rescued.

"He was found dumped in a bag in Connecticut," the onscreen text explained, with clips of Ryder as a much younger kitty. "His only chance to live was our cat rescue, as no one wanted a paralyzed kitten."

Ryder was taken for immediate medical attention due to his poor condition, and "spent a few days in the ER, where they saved his life!"

The orange cat quickly learned to adapt without the use of his back legs, with the video featuring how he gets around and enjoys his new home.

@lowryderkitty

Ryder’s story is one of heart break, strength and inspiration. Dumped in a bag with a broken back, I knew instantly I had to save him, as no one else would. Now, he lives an amazing life, just a little differently. #Specialneedscat #Paralyzedcat #Disabledcat #Inspirationalstory #Orangecat

♬ Light of the Soul - SANTANA J.L.M

"He has an amazing life now, just a little differently," the story continued. "Like mom helping him go to the bathroom, climbing stairs with his front legs, getting up on the couch like a monkey, and moving all around by dragging his back legs."

The cat cutie is clearly loved and well cared for by his rescuers, who are grateful to have him as a family member. "Ryder is an amazing boy, and we are so lucky to be inspired by him every day!" the video concluded.

Related: Orange Cat Visits Kitty Brother in the ER and Goes Into Caretaker Mode

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Dogs don’t hold grudges the way humans do, but they are highly sensitive to changes in their emotional connection with you. When their attachment starts to weaken with someone, it often shows up in subtle shifts in your dog's behaviors. So, if you've ever wondered if you're are losing your bond with your dog, you're not alone. Every relationship has ups and down, even ones with your pets.

These changes can be easy to miss at first if you're a pet parent, but they often signal that you need to work on finding a way to reconnect with your pup and grow closer. The good news is that most human-dog relationship shifts can be improved if you're willing to devote the time to it and show your pup they can trust you and they can count on you.

If you've noticed that your dog has become distant and isn't as affectionate as they use to be with you, that may be their way of communicating to you that your bond is lacking something. Here are the key signs your bond with your dog may be weakening—and how you can repair it so you can feel connected again and have your built-in best friend back.

Related: 7 Signs You’re Your Dog’s No. 1 Human, According to a Trainer

Signs Your Bond With Your Dog May Be Weakening

If your connection with your dog is starting to shift, it often shows up in subtle changes in behavior long before it becomes obvious. What are some signs your dog feels disconnected from you? Dogs may become less responsive, less interested in interaction, or more independent when something in the relationship feels off to them.

Paying attention to these early signs of distance can help you better understand your dog’s emotional state and recognize when your connection may need a little extra care or attention.

Changes in Your Dog’s Behavior That Could Signal Distance A woman trying to hug her uninterested dog.

Getty Images filadendron

Sometimes, dogs make emotional distance obvious. They might steer clear of you, pull away from affection or simply seem withdrawn. Other times, dog body language can be harder to read than most people think.

“For example, you might think your dog's rapid tail wagging means they're excited, but it could also mean they're stressed or scared,” explains Dr. Kerri Rodriguez, director of the Human-Animal Bond Lab and Fetch Veterinary Advisory board member. “Over time, misreading these cues can hurt the bond, especially if your dog is trying to tell you they’re feeling anxious, fearful or uncomfortable.”

Other potential signs of disconnect between a dog and owner can include your pup avoiding eye contact, flinching or tensing up when you reach for them, resisting grooming or even becoming unusually clingy, which can signal insecurity in the relationship.

That’s why experts say learning canine body language is one of the best ways to strengthen your relationship. The more accurately you can recognize your dog’s emotions, the easier it becomes to build trust, improve communication and deepen your connection.

Common Mistakes That Can Affect Your Dog’s Trust

Even in strong dog-owner relationships, small everyday habits can slowly weaken your dog’s sense of trust and emotional connection with you. Things like inconsistent routines, unclear communication, or unintentionally ignoring your dog’s signals can all impact how secure they feel with you over time.

Dogs rely heavily on consistency and clear interaction to maintain a strong bond, so even subtle changes in how you respond to them can influence their behavior and closeness to you.

Why Dogs Sometimes Become Less Affectionate

According to Rodriguez, your dog may be picking up on more than you realize, which can lead to a waning bond with your pet. “Research shows that dogs can detect when we're stressed through small changes in our body language, facial expressions and emotions,” she explains. “They can also smell that we're stressed by detecting stress-related odors in our breath and sweat.”

Dogs quickly pick up on stress cues, which can negatively impact their own behavior. “If you're going through a hard time and your dog seems ‘off,’ consider reflecting on your own mental health,” she continues. “We know that frequent interactions with our dogs, such as playing with them, petting them and walking them, can lead to a stronger bond. But, we also know the opposite is true, that less play, quality time together and physical touch can weaken the bond.”

If you’re going through major life changes such as starting a new job, welcoming a baby or moving to a new home, experts say it’s important to make intentional time for your dog.

Big shifts in routine can leave dogs feeling stressed, overlooked or disconnected, especially if their exercise, attention and mental stimulation suddenly change. This can make them be less affectionate than normal. Making quality time and consistency a priority during periods of transition can help strengthen your bond and give your dog the reassurance they need that they’re still an important part of your life.

How to Rebuild and Strengthen Your Bond With Your Dog

A weakening bond with a dog can feel personal, but it’s usually not a sign that the relationship is broken. “It’s often a sign that the dog is stressed, confused, not stimulated, or just not getting the kind of connection they understand best,” says veterinarian Dr. Sarah Wooten.

Here are the steps veterinarians recommend to help strengthen your relationship and reconnect with your dog.

Rule Out Pain or Illness

If a dog suddenly seems distant, irritable, avoidant, less playful or less affectionate, don’t automatically assume they’re mad at you. “Dogs in pain often withdraw,” Wooten says. “Arthritis, dental disease, ear infections, upset tummies, skin discomfort, anxiety and other health issues can all change how connected a dog seems. A veterinary exam is a smart first step when the change is new or noticeable.”

Make Yourself Predictable Again

Trust grows when a dog knows what to expect. “A consistent routine for meals, walks, potty breaks, rest and play helps dogs feel secure,” Wooten explains. “When life feels chaotic, many dogs disconnect or become more anxious. Predictability is one of the quietest but most powerful ways to rebuild a bond.”

Integrate Shared Experiences

Rebuild connection through shared, fun experiences, such as play, walks, training, scent games, puzzle toys or learning a new sport together.

“Dogs thrive on consistency, so examine and reset schedules that work for you both,” recommends Dr. Stephanie Montgomery, CEO of AKC Canine Health Foundation. “Create a safe environment, or maybe even a space, room or walk route in your neighborhood that promotes calm and low stress.”

Use Training as Connection, Not Correction

Short, positive training sessions offer dogs a clear way to succeed, which can help repair a weakening relationship.

“Ask for simple things your dog already knows, reward generously and keep sessions easy,” Wooten says. “This isn’t the time to drill obedience or focus on what the dog is doing wrong. It’s the time to remind them that interacting with you feels good.”

Repair After Conflict

Just like with humans, it’s important to take steps to repair your relationship with your dog after moments of stress.

“If there has been yelling, frustration, punishment or a scary experience, give the dog time and rebuild with low-pressure positive interactions,” Wooten says. “Dogs don’t need a dramatic apology. They need repeated evidence that you are safe, calm and predictable.”

Use Food Strategically

When used appropriately, food doesn’t always have to be offered as a bribe. “Hand-feeding a few treats during training, offering a stuffed food toy or rewarding voluntary check-ins can create positive associations,” Wooten says. “You’re teaching your dog that choosing to engage with you leads to good things.”

At the end of the day, the fastest way to strengthen your bond with your dog is to slow down. “Watch what they’re telling you, meet their needs, reduce pressure and make your presence feel safe and rewarding again,” Wooten says.

Sources

Dr. Kerri Rodriguez, director of the Human-Animal Bond Lab and Fetch Veterinary Advisory board member

Dr. Sarah Wooten, veterinarian

Dr. Stephanie Montgomery, CEO of AKC Canine Health Foundation

Did you know cats experience the world primarily through scent? That means that the smells in your home can make a difference in how your cat feels. In fact, from cleaning products to spices you cook with to beauty fragrances, a variety of common household smells can shape how comfortable—or uncomfortable—your cat feels at home. To help make your furry companion feel at ease, make sure you know what 6 everyday scents can secretly be stressing out your cat, according to a vet.

That way, the next time you notice your cat steering clear of your kitchen after you have a cleaning session or while you're preparing a meal, or you see them making a face when they smell something strong, like a spritz of your perfume, you'll know the cause might be something you can’t see and instead can have to do with a smell your cat dislikes. In fact, it could even be due to a fragrance you find pleasant. However, because scent is one of the main ways cats interpret safety and familiarity, some popular household smells can affect cats far more than most pet owners realize.

After all, cats have an extremely sensitive sense of smell that’s far stronger than humans’ sense of smell. Because of that, everyday scents can overwhelm their system and trigger stress responses without owners clearly noticing the connection. So, what scents cause cat anxiety? Below are six scents cats hate, along with a few smells cats like and considered more comforting.

Related: Which Adorable Kitten Breed Is For You, Based on Your Birth Month

6 Common Household Scents That Can Stress Cats Out A cat who doesn't like the scent of essential oils.

Getty Images Lightspruch

Cats rely heavily on their sense of smell to interpret their environment, making them far more sensitive to household scents than humans. What may seem like normal, everyday odors in your home can sometimes be overpowering or stressful for them. In enclosed spaces, these scents can accumulate and subtly influence a cat’s comfort, behavior and feeling of security.

Citrus

When it comes to smells cats hate, citrus is one of them. So, if you love the clean and crisp scent of fresh lemon in your home, you may want to rethink citrus aromas if you have a feline friend. “Cats have a strong aversion to citrus scents like lemon, orange and grapefruit, which are commonly found in household sprays, floor cleaners and plug-in fresheners,” says Dr. Victoria Carmella, veterinary advisor at Pet Honesty.

Citrus oils contain compounds that many cats naturally avoid, which means even light exposure from cleaning products or air fresheners can be enough to make them steer clear of certain spaces. If your cat tends to avoid freshly cleaned areas, check your cleaning cabinet and see if you've been using citrus-based products. That way, you can switch them out so they'll no longer annoy your cat.

Essential Oils

What smells stress cats out? Essential oils are a major one. Many cat owners use essential oils in diffusers or homemade cleaning blends for their calming, fresh scent—but cats don’t process these products the same way humans do.

Even natural essential oils can be a stressful smell for cats in concentrated form. Cats metabolize airborne compounds differently, and exposure to certain essential oils—especially in enclosed spaces—can lead not only to stress, but also potential toxicity. So, if you've ever wondered, "Are essential oils toxic to cats?" many are. Oils like tea tree, eucalyptus, citrus, and peppermint are commonly flagged by experts as particularly risky for cats.

Because cats groom themselves, microscopic oil particles can settle on their fur and be ingested, increasing the chance of toxic effects. Frequent exposure to essential oils may lead to subtle stress signals like avoiding certain rooms, staying near exits, or retreating to low-scent areas—but in more serious cases, it can cause drooling, lethargy, or breathing issues.

Strong Perfumes and Colognes

Before you spritz perfume, cologne or even scented personal care products, Carmella says it’s best to do so sparingly. Otherwise, you might see your cat reacting to its smell and think to yourself, "Why does my cat hate my perfume?"

In reality, the reason cats hate the smell of perfumes and colognes is actually pretty sweet. “Cats rely heavily on familiar scent profiles to recognize and feel comfortable with their human companions,” she explains. “Strong or frequently changing perfumes and body sprays can make a beloved owner suddenly smell unfamiliar, disrupting the scent bond cats use to identify safe relationships.”

This can lead to avoidance behavior, reduced social interaction and a general reluctance to engage with their person. In other words, your cat isn’t rejecting you, but reacting to a temporary shift in how they recognize you. When your scent changes too dramatically, it can create confusion and hesitation in their response to you.

Vinegar

Vinegar is a popular natural cleaning alternative, but its strong acidic smell can be unpleasant for cats, which is why this is a common home scent cats don't like. While many people use it to avoid harsh chemicals, feline companions may find the odor sharp or overwhelming, say experts.

Even after surfaces dry, the smell of vinegar can still linger in the air or on floors, especially in enclosed spaces. Cats spend a lot of time close to the ground, so they’re more likely to come into contact with residual scents that humans no longer notice. This can lead to avoidance of recently cleaned areas.

Related: 7 Friendly Cat Breeds For People Who Want a Sweet Companion

Chemical Cleaners and Bleach

One more smell cats dislike has to do with laundry. Strong chemical cleaners, including bleach and ammonia-based products, can be highly stressful for cats due to their exceptionally sensitive olfactory system.

“These harsh scents can overwhelm a cat's sensory system and trigger avoidance, hiding or anxious behavior,” Carmella explains. “Because cats move and rest at floor level, they’re particularly exposed to residual chemical odors that linger on surfaces long after cleaning.”

Even when a home smells "clean" to humans, it can still feel overwhelming to a cat. Residue on floors, furniture or fabrics can continue to affect how comfortable they feel in their environment long after cleaning is finished.

Spices and Herbs

Cooking aromas may be comforting to humans, but they can be another overlooked source of stress for cats. Strong spices like cinnamon, pepper, clove or heavily seasoned foods can fill a home with a powerful, lingering scent that cats don’t like.

These smells may be normal in everyday cooking, but cats can find them overwhelming when they’re concentrated or persistent. If you notice your cat leaving the kitchen when you start cooking or avoiding nearby rooms until the scent fades, the scent environment may be more intense than you realize. Even dried herbs used in cooking or decor can cause unwanted stress.

What Scents Do Cats Like?

Not all smells cause anxiety and stress for cats. In fact, there are several scents that are calming for cats. Calming scents for cats include lavender, chamomile, cedarwood, frankincense and valerian root, which can help reduce cat anxiety. Synthetic pheromones like Feliway are a popular choice among pet owners and at vet clinics since these products mimic natural comforting scents.

However, keep in mind that cats are extraordinarily sensitive to strong smells. Always use high-quality oils and dilute them significantly. Make sure any area you use them in is well-ventilated, and consider safe, natural options like pheromone diffusers when possible.

Source

Dr. Victoria Carmella, veterinary advisor at Pet Honesty

Anyone who has ever rescued or fostered a dog knows that fostering isn’t just about helping dogs—it changes the humans for the better, too.

A new memoir called Dogs, Boys, and Other Things I’ve Cried About: A Memoir – A Tender Story of Fostering Rescue Pups and Finding Love in the Big City by Isabel Klee tackles the heartbreak and heartache that comes with taking a pup into your life, knowing that dog won’t be yours to love forever.

Much like most romances, fostering an animal is a temporary relationship that leads to long-lasting feelings. And boy, can saying goodbye hurt.

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In the book, Klee weaves the stories of the dogs she rescues with the relationships she navigates, including her first love—a fluffy puppy named Simon. As Klee navigates single life and relationships in New York, the dogs she fosters become her family, help her build community, and keep her sane as she navigates the highs and lows of life in her twenties.

Related: This Massive Cane Corso Only Wants One Thing At Target — Hugs From His Favorite Cashier

Why Fostering Rescue Dogs Is More Emotionally Complicated Than People Expect View this post on Instagram

This memoir resonates with readers who can relate to the quick emotional bonds she forms with her foster dogs (and sometimes her human relationships, too). Just like in a new relationship, first-time fosters often underestimate how quickly they become attached to their dog. While the dog-human relationship may be temporary, the bond can come fast and stay longer than expected.

For Klee, fostering a dog against the backdrop of urban life is intensified by the loneliness one can feel navigating love in a big city. That connection to a pet can sometimes be the closest thing to companionship. Saying goodbye when a pup finds its forever home can feel like a loss all over again.

Breaking up is hard to do, especially when you have to say goodbye to a foster dog you didn’t expect to fall in love with.

The hardest thing about fostering a dog might be letting the dog go. There’s an internal conflict: the joy you feel for the dog finding its permanent home versus personal grief. Ultimately, fostering a dog is successful if the dog leaves its temporary home for its forever home, making goodbye a necessary part of the process. It’s like falling in love knowing you’re going to break up.

But in this memoir, the inevitable goodbye is well worth the sadness. Here, dogs are emotional anchors who help battle urban isolation. Fostering a dog creates routine, purpose, and connection, even if it comes with the inevitable sadness of saying farewell.

Related: Dog Lovers Show Up for Unusual NYC Contest That Celebrates Bad Breath

Most cats react to new things with cautious curiosity. This Russian Blue reacted like someone had secretly replaced reality with psychological warfare.

A beautiful Russian Blue cat is currently making people laugh online after meeting a stuffed version of himself and immediately spiraling into what can only be described as a tiny furry existential crisis.

@miau.miau.the.cat

i'll post an update on how it's going with our russian blue cat and the plushie. stay tuned! #fyp #cats #carslover #kitten

♬ Swan Lake "dance of four swans" - Kohrogi

The TikTok video, shared by @miau.miau.the.cat, shows us the hilarious clip alongside the caption, “I'll post an update on how it's going with our Russian Blue cat and the plushie.”

And honestly? Things don't appear to be going especially smoothly.

Related: Farm Cat Chews on a Chicken’s Feet Like They're a Sweet Treat

The video shows the kitty approaching the plush version of himself with deep suspicion before gently smacking it, rubbing dramatically against the nearby wall, hugging the wall for emotional support, jumping around wildly, and then returning to slap the plush cat again like he simply can't stop revisiting the situation.

It honestly feels less like he met a toy and more like he accidentally encountered an alternate universe version of himself during a nervous breakdown.

People in the Comments Were Completely Obsessed With the Cat’s Increasingly Chaotic Emotional Journey:

• “His emotional support wall.”
• “What if humans did this when they met new humans?”
• “If ‘Thanks, I hate it’ was a person.”
• “Cats are so ridiculously hilarious. He could literally walk away at any time, but no. ‘Gotta show this guy who’s in charge.’”
• “Skippity PAP PAP.”
• “Tbh, if there was a full-size doll with eyes of me in my living room, I would flip out, too.”
• “Oh, he wants a friend so bad.”

Honestly, the emotional support wall comment may be the funniest thing ever written because the cat really does keep returning to the wall like he needs to physically process what’s happening.

And somehow the repeated tiny slaps toward the plushie feel deeply relatable, too. Like he’s trying to convince himself this weird, fake-cat situation is manageable while actively becoming less OK every second.

How Do You Know If It's Time To Adopt a Friend for Your Cat? @dear.figg

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♬ original sound - dear.figg

Some cats enjoy being the only pet in the home, while others become more social, playful, or emotionally fulfilled with a feline companion. Signs a cat may benefit from a friend can include boredom, clinginess, excessive vocalization, destructive behavior, or a strong interest in other animals.

However, personality matters much more than breed alone. Some kitties love companionship, while others prefer having complete control over their kingdom without strange plush impostors showing up unexpectedly.

Experts also recommend slow introductions whenever bringing home another cat to help reduce stress and territorial behavior.

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If you've ever looked at certain dog breeds and wondered how much weight they're capable of carrying around, Dr. Lindsay Butzer, DVM, has your back! In a recent post, the vet introduced a sweet Basset Houndnamed Bentley who, at first glance, may look like any other, but there's a massive catch—and you won't believe what this big boy weighs!

View this post on Instagram

I didn't have Bentley coming in at a whopping 80 pounds as my guess, so I'd say he wears it well! We're all familiar with a typical Basset Hound stature, which is low slung, long, and droopy, but I didn't think it was possible for one of these cute pups to tip the scales at this level.

There's no weight-shaming here. I think Bentley is one handsome gent, but there's another huge Hound competing for the "biggest" prize, and this pooch will make you rethink everything you thought you knew about the breed and their size!

Related: Basset Hound Puppy with 'Old Lady Energy' Protests Against All Outdoor Activity Like True Diva

The viral video shared by @bensonbassetfarm is a few months old, but it's the perfect comparison video to show how XL these sweet and gentle dogs can grow to be.

They don't seem to notice they're any larger than the smallest pups in the house!

@bensonbassetfarm

I think the chairs alright 😂. Btw we have two male pups looking for a home! They’re akc, European, and have all their shots! Dm if interested #bassethound #dog #cute #puppy #forsale #ears #floppyears #play #puppyplay #puppylove #doglife #bassetpuppy #cutedogs #puppyvibes #lazy #sleepy #droopy #dogsoftiktok #dogtok #farmlife #farm #farmtok #bassetpuppy #adorable #summer #dogdays #chair #couch #viral #funny #comedy #hilarious #funnydog #funnydogs #dogfarm

♬ Funny - Gold-Tiger How Much Do Basset Hounds Usually Weigh?

Dr. Butzer didn't specify whether Bentley is an American Basset Hound or the European version (and the same goes for Benson), but going by weight alone, I'd place my bets on the latter. Here are the key differences between the two:

• European Hounds are larger and heavier, even reaching 90 pounds or more, while American Bassets settle in around 40 to 65 pounds at most, but it can vary.
• They're also more wrinkly and athletic than the American breed.
• European pups are the typical choice for show, because of their droopier eyes, heavier bone structure, and longer ears.

Basset Hounds as a whole stand around 15 inches at the shoulder, and males might be a touch taller with more meat on their bones! One look at Bentley and Benson, and I think they both deserve to win the prize for "Absolute Units of the Year!"

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