Parade Pets

Fall is here, and so are those chilly, scenic walks with your dog. While cooler weather typically means you don’t need to fret over your dog overheating, that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to look out for as the temperature drops and the leaves change. As with any season, fall brings its own share of pros and cons when it comes to caring for your dog. The crisp air, colorful leaves and cozy sweater weather make it one of the most beloved seasons for pet parents and their pups alike, but those idyllic fall walks aren’t completely danger-free.

Regardless of the season, dog walks should always come with a bit of caution. Between looking out for debris and trash on the street and animals or pests that may follow you home, you should be aware of your dog’s health post-walk. Fall adds its own twist to this routine, layering fresh seasonal hazards on top of the usual ones.

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Experts warn that autumn brings new elements of nature that can affect your dog’s health, many of which are easy to miss until they’ve already caused a problem. To help reduce the risks, you should get in the habit of checking your dog after fall walks to catch issues early and prevent bigger, more expensive problems down the line.

To help you navigate potential fall dangers, we spoke with an expert to clear the air before your next walk. Here’s exactly how to check your dog’s paws after walks and what to look for to help keep them safe this season.

RichardSilveraCichero / Getty Images

It can be easy to get confused about what actually to look out for after your autumnal walks, but you don’t need to be overwhelmed. Dr. Louisa Sidwa, the lead veterinarian partner at CityVet – Rockwall, says your dog’s paws should be the focus of your search for potential hazards.

Any foreign object is always the first concern when checking your dog post-walk. Dr. Sidwa suggests checking your dog’s paws for elements like acorns, burrs and pine needles that may get stuck during your walk. Stones or broken glass are other items worth searching for too. While you’ll mostly find these things on their paws, it doesn’t hurt to take a quick scan of their fur too. It’s just as easy for them to get tangled in a dog’s coat as it is for a dog to lick or bite at it later. These hard items may hurt a dog’s teeth and cause even more damage if ingested.

Related: Vets Warn Late Summer Is Peak Tick Season—Here’s What Most Dog Owners Don’t Know

rbkomar / Getty Images

Acorns, burrs and pine needles make up the beauty of the fall landscape. However, they may also pose some of the most significant dangers to your furry friend. Dr. Sidwa warns that acorns, if ingested, may cause gastrointestinal problems or even choking. Even if they’re just bitten, hard acorns may severely damage a dog’s teeth.

Burrs and pine needles can also be bothersome for pets, especially when buried in their fur. Burrs can work their way into the gaps between toes and cause irritation, pain and puncture wounds. Left uncleaned, those puncture wounds may become infected over time. Pine needles carry a similar risk, causing irritation and puncture wounds of their own.

Because these items are often small, they can be hard to spot while walking through leaf-covered areas, making it best to avoid debris-filled streets whenever possible.

Natalia Lebedinskaia / Getty Images

While these dangers may sound scary, a quick and easy post-walk paw cleaning routine may help prevent these health hazards from wreaking havoc in the first place.

Dr. Sidwa recommends starting by gently wiping down each paw after your walk. This removes any loose debris, making it easier to examine for more dangerous items. Afterward, spend extra time inspecting each toe and paw pad. Remove any foreign object that can be easily dislodged with tools or your hand. However, if something is too embedded, it’s best to seek veterinary care. The final step is to dry the paws thoroughly, which helps keep their toe beans healthy and clean.

Checking your dog’s paws after a walk might feel like an extra step, but it’s one that only takes a few minutes and can provide long-term relief and peace of mind. Even though fall brings plenty of beauty and charm, it doesn’t mean there are no dangers for you to look out for. Taking a few extra precautions to keep your dog’s paws and fur clean will help keep them healthy and safe, and may help you avoid an expensive trip to the vet later down the road.

• Dr. Louisa Sidwa is the lead veterinarian partner at CityVet – Rockwall. 

Related: 3 Things You Should Never Do When Walking Your Dog in the Dark This Fall

Keeping your space organized is a constant chore. Add pets into the equation and suddenly that chore becomes a daily task that requires even more upkeep. That’s why smart storage solutions are such a lifesaver, offering practical ways to get more out of your space while keeping essentials within reach and easy to access.

Fortunately, Aldi just announced a restock of one of its most popular creative storage solutions: the Kirkton House Collapsible Closet Bin. Hitting stores on Wednesday, Sept. 9 in two colors, this $17 home upgrade is perfect for corralling all your pet essentials in one sleek, compact space.

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Aldi

Meant for just about any and all of your storage needs, this compact closet organizer easily performs far outside of its intended purpose. And with both Diamond (white) and Fluted (black) options to choose from, it can also blend in with a wide range of decor styles. Toss it in your closet, garage, bathroom, pantry or back porch and use it to keep items within reach that you otherwise wouldn’t want scattered around the house.

At $16.99 per bin, you get a sturdy, collapsible piece that stands roughly 12 inches tall, 12.29 inches long and 12.20 inches wide, making it perfect for pet cleaning supplies, extra bowls, toys, treats, food, and more. And with dual top and front access built into its design, you have even more flexibility when deciding where to store it. Best of all, its lockable door handles can help keep curious furballs from getting inside while you’re not around.

Related: This New York Times Best Furniture Crate Winner Looks Right at Home With Minimalist and Boho Decor

Aldi

Where these bins really impress, however, is in their stackable design and removable wheels. Purchase them in pairs and you can effectively make better use of vertical space, or use their mobile function to easily transport items from room to room. Plus, when they’re not in use, the bins can collapse down flat and be tucked away without taking up too much space.

Whether you snatch one (or two) up for yourself or your furry friend, you’ll find plenty of ways to put this versatile storage solution to use. And with no tools required for assembly, it’s easy to set up and immediately put to use. 

Keep your eyes peeled for it upon arrival on Sept. 9, and while you’re there, check out Aldi’s Carved Wood Cat Candle and Orange Boucle Pumpkin Cushion for more pet-adjacent essentials.

Related: Target’s $14 Halloween Essential Is a Must-Have for Tough Chewers

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 want the wild birds who visit your back yard to enjoy the bougie life, then this low-cost solar fountain from Amazon will do the trick. The Mademax Solar Bird Bath Fountain is just $17. And for such a low price, you can essentially turn any bird bath into a sparkling spa delight.

This fountain is marked as a “#1 best seller” on Amazon in the “water garden & pond pumps” category. And there’s a great reason it’s so popular. The fountain only needs to be in direct sunlight for about three seconds before it starts spraying water from 4 to 27.5 inches in height, depending on the setting you choose. It doesn’t need any electricity or batteries.

It has four adjustable brackets to avoid random movement in the bird bath. And it comes with eight nozzles, allowing you to choose the fountain pattern of your preference. If your bird bath is extra small, you can even run it without any nozzles, simply using bubble mode.

Courtesy of Amazon

Buyers appreciate this fountain for its ease of use and functionality. Just note: the height and strength of the spray depends not only on the type of nozzle you use, but also on how sunny it is that day. The fountain needs to be in direct sunlight to run.

Check out some of the 5-star reviews left on Amazon:

• “It’s a very easy, economical way to add some splash to a bird bath.”
• “Mine is in a bird bath bowl and I use rocks around it for the birds to perch which also keeps it in place. It works quite well.”
• “Super easy to set up. Very powerful stream! I couldn’t put in any of the heads because they were spraying outside the bird bath that’s how strong it was! In full sunlight it blasts really tall.”

One buyer noted that the filter can get clogged depending on where it’s placed. So if your fountain stops working in direct sunlight, just clean the pump. (They recommend using YouTube videos for step-by-step instructions.)

Amazon is offering free delivery on orders shipped by Amazon of over $35, or free delivery for Prime members. Amazon’s also offering free 30-day refunds and replacements.

Related: Amazon’s Squeezable Hairball Treats Are Turning Cat Parents Into ‘Lifelong Customers’

My dog is always doing adorable things (as dogs do), but one of my favorite things is when she acts out her dreams. Sometimes, I’ll look over at her while she’s sleeping, and her little paws are going like she’s chasing a ball. What could be cuter?

Richie the Mini Goldendoodle puppy also has this habit, and in this video captured by his humans, his paws are moving in a way that makes it look like he’s actually dancing.

Sweet baby🥰 #dogsoftiktok #puppy #minigoldendoodle #trending #dog

With his head propped up on a metal bar underneath a cabinet, I can’t imagine how Richie could possibly be comfortable, but somehow, he is… and comfortable enough to have a pretty involved dream, at that.

His paws keep moving like the tiniest tippy taps, as if he’s dreaming about doing a little dance. Just by looking at how cute this sweet baby is, I don’t doubt he’d be a good dancer, too!

If only he could let us know what he was actually dreaming about when he wakes up…

Related: Tiny Goldendoodle Hailed a Hero for Bravely Saving His Family From Fire

It’s true: Dogs and puppies do actually dream, so what Richie was doing in the video above really was a result of whatever was happening in his dream at that moment.

According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), dogs go through different sleep cycles the same way that humans do, including REM sleep — or the time when the most vivid dreams take place.

Dobrila Vignjevic / Getty Images

If you catch your puppy moving in their sleep a bit like Richie was, it’s because their pons is still developing. The pons is part of the brain stem that is associated with deep sleep, so when it’s not quite complete, your puppy is more likely to dream so actively that you can probably guess what they might be dreaming about.

Per the AKC, researchers have discovered that when dogs are dreaming, it’s about “doggy things,” so they’re probably dreaming about running around outside, playing with a favorite toy, or even being with their favorite human (you, of course).

Hopefully Richie didn’t wear himself out too much with all that dreaming. Whatever it was about, it looked fun!

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Senior animals in shelters are less likely to get adopted due to potential health issues and limited life span. Yet these dogs and cats in their elder years still have so much love left to give and deserve to live the rest of their days with a loving family.

Smooch the 19-year-old cat was recently brought to the NAWS Humane Society and hopes to get the chance at happiness she truly deserves.

Apologies in advance for all the sniffling 🫩😭 This morning was rough. I knew that Smooch was a special girl, but we really bonded today during the short amount of time we had together. Smooch is very new to our facility and we are still waiting on bloodwork to come back, but we would love to find someone who would be willing to open their heart and home to Smooch sooner than later. She deserves to have her happy ending. If you have any questions about Smooch, please feel free to message me and I will do my best to respond ASAP! If you are serious about adopting Smooch please submit a cat adoption application at nawsus.org under the tab “adoption center”. Im sending you guys all of my love, thank you for allowing me to share Smooch and for allowing me to be vulnerable with you all. I love you guys with my whole entire heart. 🥹🥹🫂🤍 #cat #adoptdontshop #catsoftiktok #catadoption #adopt

The TikTok from @franflight told Smooch’s story and shared how the feline fur baby longs for love.

“Smooch is 19 years old and starting her life over,” the on-screen text explained as the shelter staff member cuddled with the sweet kitty. “She doesn’t need much, and she showed that to me today.”

The senior cat drank in every ounce of affection the staff member showered her with, clearly content to just be held.

“All she needs is someone to choose her, someone to keep her company,” the story continued. “Someone out there is going to be the last person she loves.”

Older cats acclimate very easily to adoptive families. Benefits of bringing home a senior kitty include:

• More predictable and established personality, meaning what you see is what you get.
• Very low-maintenance compared to kittens and younger cats.
• Litter and scratch-post trained.

When adopting a senior cat, you’re saving a life and giving them a new beginning. These feline fur babies show their love and gratitude in spades and make the most wonderful family members.

Related: Senior Cat Claims Golden Retriever Puppy’s ‘Bedroom’ As His Own, and Paws Fly

NAWS staff members rave over Smooch’s sweet and gentle personality, and are committed to finding her a forever home.

“I knew that Smooch was a special girl, but we really bonded today during the short amount of time we had together,” the caption shared. “Smooch is very new to our facility and we are still waiting on bloodwork to come back, but we would love to find someone who would be willing to open their heart and home to Smooch sooner than later.”

The video concluded with a final plea to potential pet parents: “Please consider adopting a senior cat. We love you, Smooch.”

For more information on Smooch or the NAWS Humane Society, please visit their website.

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Golden Retrievers tend to get a very good rap. They deserve it: these are incredibly family-oriented dogs who train hard and, most of the time, do what they’re told. Key word: most. There will be plenty of times when even the best-trained Golden Retriever thinks they know better than their humans.

One Golden Retriever recently received a pretty interesting jail sentence. He got caught one too many times in Mom’s garden, and she was officially sick of it. She decided to put him in “face jail” for his crimes, and to be honest, I think she might have just started a new fall trend:

He only wore it for the video before people lose their minds 😂 #colin #goldens

Sterling and Colin are brothers, and the two of them love nothing more than getting in trouble together. They do it all the time, except this time, it was something that directly affected their mom.

She works hard on her garden, and one of the brothers in particular (cough, cough, Colin) kept getting into it and eating up all of her plants. Naturally, she decided to put him in face jail so he couldn’t access the plants…

Just kidding! Though it looks great on him, and he seemed to enjoy it quite a bit, she only had it on him for the video. The solution to the problem is to dog-proof the garden, not garden-proof the dog!

Related: Golden Retriever Thinks the Ocean Is ‘Out to Get Him’ and It Proves Him Right in the Funniest Way

This is not the first time Colin has had to wear a slightly ridiculous hat. In fact, not even close! He tends to have a rough time with all of the noise at the groomer, and his outfit there is a bit silly, too:

He’s definitely packing his bags and moving to Grandma’s 😂 #serls #goldenretriever

As the caption says, he’s packing up and moving to Grandma’s. He’s hoping for two things there: fewer ridiculous hats and an equally yummy garden. If he can get that, he’s golden!

If you have dogs yourself, or a garden that neighborhood dogs can get into with relative ease, you need some help. Leaving it wide open means that they’re going to get in and go to town, even if you provide of the food they could possibly need.

Catherine Falls Commercial / Getty Images

The best way to keep dogs out of your garden is to fence it off and make it inaccessible. That will also help keep it safe from other animals, including deer, raccoons, or even cats who might try to use it as a litter box! If that’s not possible, though, you can try:

• Only letting them outside under your supervision.
• Putting up temporary netting.
• Using scent deterrents, like apple cider vinegar, around the perimeter of the garden bed.

Training will be key here, too: ultimately, being told to “leave it” will be enough for most dogs, especially if you stay consistent in not letting them near the plants. Or, apparently, face jail is also an option…

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I have three Boston Terriers, and I must admit that I’m partial to them. However, they’re not rare by any means: you can find these pups anywhere you look. When it comes to what pups I love to see, I’m partial to the rarer breeds. The ones you don’t see every day, even if they’re not technically rare.

For example, Clumber Spaniels. Not enough people talk about Clumber Spaniels, even though they’re some of the most underrated dogs in the world. Like these pups who got caught on camera running through the yard and captured everyone’s hearts:

My favorite thing: Clumber puppies. From today’s play date with the girls #clumberspaniel #clumber #clumberpuppy #clumberpuppies

The House of Slobber has so many Clumber Spaniel puppies, and it’s awesome. The pups are big, bumbly, and super playful. They don’t just specialize in Clumber Spaniels, though: they also have Saint Bernards. All of their dogs and puppies are raised in-home, and they love to play together.

According to the caption, all of the Clumber Spaniel puppies in this video are girls! They have huge heads, which is part of what makes the breed as a whole so charming. Their pups are also known for being super silly, and who doesn’t love a silly little ray of sunshine?

Related: Clumber Spaniel’s Protest Over Bath Routine Turns Into the Cutest Chaos

The puppies in this video are bigger now, but when they were first born, they were so tiny and squishy! They’ll be off to their forever homes soon, but before it’s time to say goodbye, we have to take a minute and appreciate them in all of their squishy glory:

Two months went by in a flash #clumberspaniel

Don’t ask me if I’m crying a little. I’ll have to say yes, and then it’s weird! My youngest dog is three now, but I remember her being tiny, too. I miss it! She has no idea she’s not still tiny, though, and loves to sit in my lap anyway.

Since this isn’t a breed most of us see a lot, it’s only natural to be curious. They don’t look like most of the puppies we see regularly, and when we do see them, it’s often something to do with them being a dying breed.

Anna-av / Getty Images

Clumber Spaniels are pretty mellow dogs. They like to nap, cuddle, and get some not-too-hard exercise every day. These dogs were bred for retrieving game birds. They can be fast when they think it’s necessary, but good luck getting them to do something they don’t want to do. Clumber Spaniel puppies, however, are:

• Rambunctious during wake windows.
• Trainable.
• Food-motivated.
• Adventurous and open to lots of new things.

Clumber Spaniels are typically good with kids, too. They may be hard to come by, but if you look hard enough, you can totally find one. These puppies are just too sweet!

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Puppies are universally loved by all. Their cloud-like coats, huge paws, round bellies, and endearing sense of mischief make everyone fall in love with them regardless of breed. Some puppies are born with an intricate mosaic of fur that can resemble a watercolor masterpiece or some sort of pastry, and it’s over-the-top adorable.

This Pomeranian puppy boasts a unique pattern of light brown and white fur that could easily be mistaken for a dairy dessert.

Sweetest things come in the smallest packages #tinydog #pomeranian #puppydog #pomeraniansoftiktok #cutiepie

In the TikTok from @divine.poms, the precious puppy was held up to the camera to show off his head-turning patchwork coat. The warm, glossy cocoa-brown fur blending with silky ivory-colored splotches created a sweet-looking swirl of rich brown and pale cream. 

The thick fur gave the fluffy fur baby a plush, freshly-scooped appearance, with chocolate-colored markings standing out against the lighter, velvety coat.

“Who’s ready for some chocolate?” the on-screen text asked, with the caption adding, “Sweetest things come in the smallest packages.”

The puppy’s beautiful blue eyes completed the picture-perfect scene as he sweetly looked around the room. The pretty pooch’s coloring may change as he gets older, but his cuteness and charm will only grow.

Pomeranians are popular with pet parents due to their small size and big personalities. These canine cuties are very social and affectionate, with some trademark sass and a stubborn streak. Some little-known facts about these fur babies include:

Related: Pomeranian Brings True Oscar-Worthy Drama Over His Little Hurt Paw

• They originated from Pomerania in Northern Europe, hence the name of the breed.
• Pomeranians are also known as Poms or Pom Poms.
• Despite their small size, Pomeranians descended from big sled dogs.
• Pomeranians used to weigh up to 20 to 30 pounds before being bred down in size by England’s Queen Victoria.
• These small dogs are notorious for thinking they can take on big dogs with their little bark.
• Mozart dedicated an aria to his beloved Pomeranian, Pimperl.
• Michelangelo painted the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel with a Pomeranian by his side.
• Pomeranians make wonderful therapy dogs and are trained as hearing assistance dogs.
• They don’t require a lot of grooming other than regular brushing, despite their fluffy coats.

And like this little puppy, Pomeranians are completely irresistible.

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Maine Coon cats are already incredible-looking creatures with their Sphynx-like ears, significant size, and beautiful, long fur patterns.

But you haven’t seen a Maine Coon cat like this before.

In this new viral cat video, we meet a black Maine Coon cat that frankly looks like he’s wearing another cat’s coat, and it’s incredible.

I heard that this is a fashion item for the new season.👀#Mainecoon

As you can imagine, the comments section was quite fun.

“Why is your cat wearing another cat?” one person asked.

Another wrote, “It’s a llamacat.”

One commenter said, “That’s a Black Kitty in a lion costume.”

Another said the Maine Coon was a cat in sheep’s clothing.

One person compared the Maine Coon cat to a Labubu.

A few others remarked that the kitty looked like he was wearing the pelts of another animal.

But some found the Maine Coon cat to be incredibly fashionable.

“Black Cat wearing this season’s fur coat,” one person commented.

Related: Stunning Smoke Gray Maine Coon Kitten Looks Like a Little Old Man

Though it looks like this striking Maine Coon is just a Black Cat in a costume, this type of cat is known as a Black Smoke Maine Coon.

Black Smoke Maine Coons have two-toned coats, usually with black fur on the outer layer and then a white or silver coat underneath.

The two colors produce a smoke effect.

With the cat featured in this video, as well as an internet-famous cat named Richie, another Black Smoke Maine Coon, their coat patterns of fluffy white or silver fur surrounding their black faces and paws give them quite the striking aesthetic.

Beyond their appearance, Maine Coons are known for their curious and dynamic personalities.

They are very confident and energetic cats.

And how could this kitty not be confident, with that beautiful fur coat on at all times?!

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I have a Maine Coon, so I am well acquainted with the ridiculous amount of fluff these cats carry around. But every once in a while, I see a Maine Coon kitten whose fur is so spectacularly out of control that even I have questions.

This tiny kitten is one of them. He’s lounging on a scratching post with fluffy black, white and gray fur that all seems to smear together in the most adorable way. He looks less like a cat and more like a dust bunny that rolled out from underneath a piece of furniture in a haunted mansion and suddenly came to life.

Forever home secured! 🏡🥹 This little gentleman has found the family he was waiting for. #TikTokCreatorSearchInsightsIncentive #crycat #mainecoon #fyp #mainecoonlovers

The adorable clip was shared by the TikTok account @big.paw.coons, and people were understandably obsessed with this little creature.

“Gorgeous floof wizard!” one person commented.

Okay, that’s actually an even better description than dust bunny.

Related: Calico Maine Coon Kitten’s Perfectly White Face Is Giving Powdered Donut

“Absolutely precious,” wrote another viewer, while someone else simply said, “What a beautiful baby.”

And his unusual coloring definitely didn’t go unnoticed.

“He has the most stunning coloring ever,” one person wrote.

Then we have my personal favorite: “He’s so black and white and baby.”

I don’t know why “baby” has become a color, but looking at him, I completely understand.

He wont stop growing until he’s 4-5yrs old too 😳 #bigcat #mainecoon #giantcat #maincooncat

One of the funniest things about seeing a Maine Coon this tiny is knowing that there’s a very good chance he isn’t going to stay tiny for long.

Maine Coons are one of the largest domestic cat breeds. Adult males commonly weigh around 18 to 22 pounds, according to the Maine Coon Cat Breed Council, while females are typically smaller. Individual cats can certainly fall outside those ranges.

They also take their sweet time growing up. Maine Coons can continue developing for several years before reaching their full adult size, so that fluffy little kitten you bring home can eventually become a whole lot of cat.

My Maine Coon, Meatball, is approximately 24 pounds, which means picking him up feels less like cuddling a house cat and more like relocating a furry ottoman.

And all that size comes with an impressive amount of fluff.

This little guy may currently look like a tiny dust bunny from a haunted mansion, but give him a few years.

He could become the entire haunted rug.

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It might be reasonable to assume that most kittens kind of look alike. We know they have the same eyes: baby grey/blue, until they develop their own eye color later on. They’re so small, too! Sometimes, it can feel hard to tell them apart.

Not these kittens, though. Recently, a black Maine Coon had a gorgeous litter of kittens, and they ended up looking like a meteor shower! I’ve never been lucky enough to see one of those before, so this litter of kittens is scratching that itch well:

Introduced the fall litter🍁🎃 #october #fall #mainecoon #catsoftiktok #kitten

The Wasatch Wild Tail Maine Coons are so precious. The cattery is based in Salt Lake City, Utah. This litter is officially designated as their “fall” litter, but they look more like tiny meteors!

Mom is an interesting mix of black and Tabby, and her kittens came out in varying shades of grey and black. A few of the kittens even have a bit of orange in them, which makes them look like flaming meteors. That’s even cooler!

Related: Maine Coon Kitten’s Different-Colored Eyes Look Like a Gorgeous Fall Sunset

The kittens, as all Maine Coon kittens do, are growing super fast. Already, they’re getting too big to all be nursing at the same time. Mom definitely has her paws full with this bunch:

2 week update #mainecoon #catsoftiktok #fall #kittensoftiktok #fallaesthetic

I feel like having just 1 kid would freak me out a lot, so the prospect of having 6 of them who double in size every two weeks would be wild. Their mama is very strong, and more than that, very patient!

These Maine Coon kittens are getting bigger every single day. When you go a week without seeing them, they look like almost completely different cats! That’s completely normal for this breed.

Nils Jacobi / Getty Images

Maine Coon kittens grow rapidly for the first year of their life, and they don’t reach full maturity until about 4 years old. In some cases, they can take as long as 5 years! Over the first year, you’ll notice:

• Rapid body growth.
• Quick weight gain: about 10-15 grams per day for the first several weeks.
• Lengthening of their coats.

By the time they hit 18 months old, they’ve often maxed out their physical size. The rest of the growth period will be spent on things like definition, bone and muscle growth and development, and continued growth of their adult coat. I bet these kittens will grow up to be some of the coolest!

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Cat people have a particular weakness for anything that turns an ordinary household object into feline-themed decor. Luckily, with Halloween just around the corner, cat decorations are some of the most popular items. After all, black cats and Halloween go hand in hand.

If your house smells like pumpkin spice and looks like a cat runs the place, this cat-shaped candle from Aldi was made for you.

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The Kirkton House Carved Wood Candle, shaped like a black cat, is part of Aldi’s 2026 seasonal drop. The multi-wick candle poured directly into a solid piece of carved wood shaped like a cat silhouette is more than a candle.

Once the wax burns down, the cat-shaped wooden tray remains for years of use.

The candle can be placed on a console table near your front door. This way, it becomes the first thing guests see and smell when they walk in. Or you can pair it with a few mini pumpkins or a black linen table runner for a simple Halloween vignette.

Related: Target Just Dropped an Adorable $5 Halloween Snack Your Dog Will Love

On a mantle, it works as a centerpiece you can surround with pillar candles. The carved wood texture provides a nice contrast with glass and metal holders.

For cat people looking for the full Halloween experience, set the candle near your cat’s favorite perch or window seat. Light it in the evening while your cat watches from their spot. Now that’s a social media photo worth taking.

There is something satisfying about finding a seasonal piece that aligns with your life philosophy. This candle strikes the perfect balance. It is a little spooky and playful, shaped like a cat. What more can you ask for?

Right now, the only question left asking is whether the candle looks too cute to burn.

Related: Halloween Arrived Early at Aldi—and This Disney-Themed Plushie Fits Right In

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With fall weather on the horizon, that means spooky season is right around the corner. And while there’s still plenty of time between now and Halloween, that doesn’t mean you can’t start acquiring some appropriately themed things. 

That’s where Target comes in with the Bark Bat Super Chewer Dog Animal Toy. Sporting an hauntingly-cute design that’s built to withstand even the toughest of chewers, this $14 playtime essential is a must-have in any pet household. New to Target and likely to be a hit with fans, you’ll want to snatch this one up fast before it’s gone.

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Target

Here just in time to kickstart a Halloween refresh at home, the Bark Bat Super Chewer toy takes on the shape of a cute yet menacing bat, complete with multiple gnaw-friendly textures and a satisfying chew. Ideal for dogs who have no chill, this tough nylon toy is shaped for easy grabbing, gripping and chewing, making it a fitting addition to any Halloween haul.

At $13.99, this Target new arrival comes backed by the Bark name, adding another durable, fan-favorite option to the brand’s popular line of dog toys. And not only is it meant to benefit the real serious chewers of the pack, it also features a bacon scent to help induce a little more playful mania as Halloween approaches.

Related: This New York Times Best Furniture Crate Winner Looks Right at Home With Minimalist and Boho Decor

Target

Ideal for large dog breeds but likely just as fun for medium-sized dogs as well, the toy features a 5.62 inch wingspan and a 1.97 inch-wide body, with an overall weight of just over half a pound. Even better, it’s top-rack dishwasher-safe and easy to spot-clean, so you’ll have no problem wiping away dirt, slobber or whatever else your pup manages to get into throughout the day.

Don’t miss out on this extra gnawsome find. Not only is it a fun playtime solution, it’s also a great training tool, anxiety aid, road trip essential or boredom bust. It’s guaranteed to last a long time and present a serious challenge for those who step to the plate. 

While you’re at it, take a peek at Target’s new $5 Halloween dog snacks and $15 pumpkin sweater for more spooky season must-haves.

Related: Target’s New $5 Dog Toy Is Bringing Spooky Fun to Playtime

We know this black Maine Coon kitten is quite adorable, but as the kids say today, she’s also a little bit “extra.”

This kitten, named Jessie, is literally “extra” because she has six toes on her front paws and seven on her back paws, making this small cat appear to have quite large feet.

The extra paws on this polydactyl Maine Coon kitten actually make her feet look like they were put on backward!

The internet can’t get enough of this tiny cat with extra toes!

Jessie has 6 toes on her front paws and 7 toes on her back paws. Polydactyl gene is Maine Coons is naturally occurring. Isn’t she just precious. #polydactyl #blackcats #mainecoonsoftiktok

Someone in the comments section even called her “Little Bigfoot!”

Others pointed out how having all those extra appendages could be quite the advantage.

“Adorable! Extra claws for scratching,” one person noted.

Another said, “Awwww, lil’ cutie pie! Just more toe beans to make biscuits with.”

Others just adored how special this polydactyl Maine Coon kitten was with her “unique feet.” “Bonus beans.”

Related: Calico Maine Coon Kitten’s Perfectly White Face Is Giving Powdered Donut

So what makes polydactyl cats so special?

First, polydactyl kitties have an extra toe or toes (in Jessie’s case).

These extra toes are the result of a genetic mutation and are on the outside of the paws (postaxial), on the inside (preaxial), or a combination of both (mesoaxial).

The mutation is harmless to the cats, but may require some extra paw maintenance and grooming.

According to The Spruce Pets, you see this mutation most commonly with Maine Coon cats, but it can happen with other breeds as well.

As people joked in the comments, Jessie may have some advantages with her extra-big paws, but that’s actually accurate.

Polydactyl cats can have some advantages with these bonus toes.

With wider paws, these special kitties can balance and climb better, as well as hunt and capture smaller animals more easily (but if they’re domesticated, they don’t need to take advantage of those benefits).

And of course, they can make biscuits faster!

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There are some pretty iconic pop culture cats who everyone knows by name. The Lion King‘s leading character, Simba, is probably one of the most famous, inspiring many pet parents to name their kitties after the little lion.

Now, there’s a new future famous feline coming through, a Savannah cat, whose uncanny resemblance to Simba will have you doing a double take:

Stunning 🤩 💕. #SavannahKittens #SavannahKittens #SavannahCat #CatLovers #SavannahCats

The TikTok video, shared by TICA-registered Savannah cat and Bengal cat breeder, @savannahkittenforadoptio, shows a real-life Simba lookalike, and he couldn’t be any more perfect. That cream and tangerine-tinted coat that’s covered in black polka-dot speckles gives this kitten a one-up on your everyday domestic kitties.

If you’ve not seen one of these cool cats as pets before, it depends on what generation they are, grouped as F1 to F5, and not every generation is legal in some states. F1 cats are rare, first-generation, half Serval, which gives them a more exotic look and a slightly more feral disposition. They can cost a pretty penny, too, at upward of $20,000 for certain coat colors, like silver.

Related: Ultra-Rare Silver Kittens Worth $20k Are the Most Gorgeous Jewelry Inspiration

Later generations like F4 or F5 are more cat-like in size, and their temperaments are easier to breed. Though, they’re still a rarity in the U.S., and even “small” Savannah cats can grow to be 20 pounds!

As amazing as these cats are, they get even cuter. Take a look at what one of these kittens looks like as an itty-bitty baby:

This is miracle 💕 🐾. #SavannahKittens #SavannahCat #CatLovers #ExoticPets #CuteAnimals

If you can ignore the very obvious gorgeousness of a Savannah cat’s coat, you’ll find that these hybrid felines—a cross between a domestic house cat and a wild African Serval—have unique and interesting temperaments and personalities.

Having those wild roots contributes to their high-energy, curious, and athletic traits, but it’s their extremely high intelligence that’s most impressive. Savannah cats look like cheetahs or mini tigers, but they’re smart enough to solve puzzles at a rapid pace and often exhibit dog-like behaviors like playing fetch or learning to walk on a leash.

Savannahs are a special type of companion not suited for every household. But even if these pretty kitties aren’t the ideal pet for everyone, they sure are beautiful to look at!

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When I think Cockatoo, I am certainly not thinking, “clean, respectful companion.” If you are, maybe try thinking, “little feathered three-year-old with no impulse control and, additionally, a weapon attached to their face.” I love them to death, but they are definitely not for the faint of heart.

Take this Cockatoo for example. His name is Calvin, and one thing about him: he likes to be up with the sun. If that’s not enough to tell you everything you need to know about him, you should also know that he loves to turn his breakfast into confetti:

Calvin celebrates breakfast time with pellet confetti! 🎊🎉 Check out our bio to visit our website! Learn more about tours, how to volunteer, and where to donate! #parrot #parrotsoftiktok #birdtok #cockatoo #febs

In Calvin’s defense, the breakfast provided by the Florida Exotic Bird Sanctuary looks extremely throwable. Those seeds are practically begging to be made into confetti. All he did was grant their wish! He does this all the time, so most likely, they had a broom handy anyway!

Calvin is just one of many Cockatoos at the sanctuary, and though exactly what his story is is unclear, he’s definitely one of the silliest parrots there. They know him well enough to know that he turns everything, even his boring breakfast time, into a party. It’s one of his favorite ways to greet them.

Related: Cockatoos Playing ‘Tug of War’ Over Their Favorite Blanket Are Just Like Puppies

The Cockatoos at this sanctuary are all a little crazy, as most Cockatoos are. There’s one who lives just a few cages down from Calvin who’s actually convinced that they’re all secretly chickens:

If Malley thinks we’re chickens, then we’re chickens! 🐓 Check out our bio to visit our website! Learn more about tours, how to volunteer, and where to donate! #parrot #parrotsoftiktok #birdtok #cockatoo #febs

I mean, I kind of see where she’s coming from. I have never seen the Cockatoos from FEBS and a chicken in the same room! I bet there’s a reason for that, and not just that the sanctuary doesn’t take in chickens!

If you think Calvin is the only Cockatoo who’s ever thrown things at his loved ones, you’re mistaken. Throwing things is basically woven into a Cockatoo’s DNA. It’s one of the things they’re best at, even if they don’t have hands.

Vinod Sharma / 500px / Getty Images

There are a ton of reasons why your Cockatoo might be throwing things. All Cockatoos do it, and it’s definitely not a super alarming behavior, even if it is a little annoying. Most of the time, Cockatoos are throwing things because they’re:

• Bored.
• Annoyed.
• Seeking attention.
• Trying to assert dominance.

It can be messy, so you’re probably going to want to keep a tarp or seed netting on the floor around their cage. Luckily for Calvin, though, it all goes straight to the floor!

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I’ve seen dogs with eyebrows, mustaches, and expressions that could win an argument without making a sound, but Duke’s beard is operating on an entirely different level.

Duke, better known as Drama Duke on TikTok, looks like someone crossed a dog with an old Civil War colonel, a slightly irritated wizard, and one of the wonderfully strange Muppets wandering around Labyrinth.

And somehow, it works.

#problemsolved

The beard is the first thing I notice. It hangs around his muzzle in a way that looks suspiciously human, giving Duke the permanent expression of a man who has just been informed that the general store is out of coffee.

Then there are the eyes.

Duke always seems mildly disappointed in whatever is happening around him. Not furious. Just deeply unconvinced. Like he’s already explained this problem twice, and can’t believe we’re discussing it again.

#eyes

Naturally, I needed to know what kind of dog produces this masterpiece.

The answer makes things even better: Duke is 50% Poodle, 25% Alaskan Malamute, and 25% German Shepherd.

Suddenly, the facial hair makes more sense. The rest of him still feels like he should be carrying a tiny staff and sending someone on a quest.

His followers are understandably obsessed. One viewer couldn’t get over how cute he is. Another took one look at the face and identified a “little troublemaker.”

Daycare is not open, you hsve to wait!!

Duke’s human confirmed the accusation.

Apparently, the grumpy-old-man appearance should not be mistaken for quiet retirement. There is mischief happening behind the beard.

I think that makes him even better.

#bigboy

Some dogs look permanently joyful, others appear surprised by life, and then there’s Duke, who looks like he has witnessed generations make the same mistakes and is tired of offering advice.

I would trust him with an ancient prophecy immediately.

I would not, however, leave my snacks unattended around him.

#people

If you’ve ever sworn your dog looks like a grumpy grandpa or your cat is giving you a judgmental human stare, your brain is doing something very normal. Research indexed by PubMed shows that people focus on familiar facial features like the eyes, nose, and mouth when looking at animal faces, and studies of the human-animal bond suggest those facial cues shape how we perceive our pets.

That can make Duke’s beard and expressions feel hilariously human.

• We look at the eyes first. They’re one of the strongest cues our brains use when reading a face.
• Familiar shapes invite comparisons. Beards, eyebrows, and expressive mouths can remind us of people we know.
• Personality fills the rest. Once you know your pet’s habits, it becomes almost impossible not to “hear” what certain looks are saying.

Duke may technically be a Poodle mix, but I remain convinced there’s at least 10% grumpy wizard in there.

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Related: Rare Mammoth-Sized Dog Who’s Worth Thousands Looks Like the Cowardly Lion

When you have one pet, the urge to get another can be tough to resist. Their cute faces and sweet demeanor compel pet parents to visit shelters to adopt another furry friend. Luckily, when you get your second pet, the two can bond together by sleeping or playing with one another. One new duo is forming their bond through the latter in a precious way.

A Bernese Mountain Dog named Boots is going viral on Instagram for his antics with the family’s new Bengal kitten. In the video, Boots steers playtime while the kitten follows his lead, and it’s just too stinking cute! It’s no surprise the two are becoming fast friends. No one can get enough of them!

Awww, how sweet! In the clip, Boots is holding a cat wand in his mouth, with the toy dangling above the kitten. As Boots prances about and swings his head around, the kitten chases the toy at the end of the wand. They have the most perfect arrangement!

People in the comments love the bond that these two are growing. One person said, “I’ve never seen a dog play with a cat like this,” while another commented, “My cats need a Boots, they just don’t know it yet.”

Other viewers were enamored by these pets. One person in the comments mentioned, “Aaawwwww! I love this, how sweet!” Another said, “How darling! We could watch this on loop!”

There’s no surprise that Boots and his kitten have gained some new fans from the video. They’re changing what it means for a cat and dog to play together!

Everyone who adopts a new pet wants nothing more than for them to get along with their other pets. While this partly depends on the animals themselves, there are a few things pet parents can do to help their dogs and cats get along.

The first step in a dog and cat introduction is to keep them separated initially. For the first few days, you’ll want to put your cat and dog in separate rooms to prevent too much of a shock at the new presence.

Related: Gentle Bernese Mountain Dog Decides a Tiny, Lost Orange Kitten Is His New Best Friend

To acclimate them during this time, swap scents, such as blankets and bedding, so they can get used to each other’s smell without the stress of a face-to-face meeting. You should also feed them on opposite sides of a closed door, so they link each other’s presence with a positive feeling.

After a few days, it will be time to introduce your fur babies. Tire out your dog with a walk or fetch beforehand so they have less nervous energy during the introduction.

To start off, use a gate or put the dog on a leash so they can see each other safely without initiating contact. Keep these first few meetings short and sweet, and be sure to reward good behavior with treats and praise when the meeting goes well.

In the following weeks, make sure both your cat and dog have safe zones to retreat to if interactions get too overwhelming. For a cat, this can be a high shelf or a tall cat tree; for a dog, this could be a comfortable space in the backyard or another room.

Be sure to supervise their interactions until you’re sure they trust each other. Lastly, feed the dog and cat separately to prevent resource guarding and fights.

By following these tips, you can develop a relationship between your cat and dog, just like Boots with his Bengal kitten!

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There is no one in the world I love more than a successful animal foster parent. I don’t think that would be for me, personally: I know myself, and I get way too attached to everything to not foster fail. It would be doing these animals a disservice. But, my favorite pastime is watching other people succeed at it!

Recently, one rockstar foster mom brought home a new litter of kittens for her resident cat to take care of. Not every pet will be super happy about the addition of foster pets to their home, but I think it’s safe to say this mama cat was totally cool with it:

Now that the foster kittens are healthy, it is time to start the introductions to the kitties. Knowing Poppy has been chomping at the bit to meet them, we started with her. Lieutenant Dan was a little jealous, but Poppy and Dolly were in heaven. ❤️ #cat #cats #catsoftiktok #kitten #kittens

The Soccer Cat Mom’s house is the place to be if you’ve got four fluffy paws and are in need of a landing pad. These kittens are so lucky: not only is their human caretaker incredibly competent, but she has a cat who loves to play Mama to any kittens she comes across!

Her name is Poppy, and she’s a seasoned mama and big-sister figure to a ton of cats. Her mom has brought home kittens before, and she wastes no time jumping in to help care for them. These kinds of things are always sort of “all paws on deck!”

Related: ‘Identical Twin’ Shelter Cat Brothers Prove Just How Bonded They Are

One of Poppy’s first experiences was with a kitten who can’t really use her back legs. Her mom nicknamed her Lieutenant Dan, and this girl is here to stay. She and Poppy are meant to be best friends forever. If you don’t believe me, just watch:

We may have some tuxedo best friends in the house. It was pretty cute watching Lieutenant Dan look through all of the nooks and crannies in order to find our foster kitten Dolly. They are quite the cute little pair. 🖤🩶 #kitten #cat #cats #catsoftiktok #kitty

Yes, Lieutenant Dan is a girl, and yes, she is wearing a diaper. What an icon! She might not have use of her back legs, but she’s still so fast! I am in awe of her.

The kittens in this house were lucky. Her cats had been through it several times before, so they knew what to expect, and she knew how they’d react. Especially Poppy. In the first video’s captions, she mentions still having to make introductions between the kittens and Lieutenant Dan!

Natalia Plankina / Getty Images

Even if you’re introducing the most docile kittens to the best-seasoned cat in the world, you still need to be careful. Things can change on a dime, and when you’re bringing home new kittens (foster or not), you should always:

• Make sure they have clearance from the vet (stray kittens in particular can carry parasites or communicable diseases).
• Start with short, supervised visits between the cat and the kittens.
• Watch for signs of agitation and discomfort.
• Immediately remove the kittens when the cat shows signs of having enough.

It might seem tedious, and it definitely will take more time than just throwing them together and letting them figure it out. However, you’re setting them up for success! Just look at Poppy and her kittens, who will totally love each other forever! Good luck, kittens!

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Ragdoll cats are known for their incredible beauty, thanks to their stunning, fluffy coats and beautiful, striking eyes. When you add in their typical, laid-back personalities, you quickly learn why Ragdolls are as popular as they are. But there’s a rare coat color that takes this beauty in a completely new direction. 

In this video, we meet a rare Ragdoll cat who has this unique coat color that’s absolutely stunning, and he 100% knows he’s striking. His confidence adds to his already mesmerizing vibe, and it’s impossible to ignore. Take a look!

bubba has been getting a lot of cat napping threats…… #fyp #ragdoll #kitten #cinnamon #bubbatheragdoll

TikTok user Bubba (@bubbatheragdoll) shared a video of a very cute Ragdoll cat named Bubba. He’s already adorable because he’s a Ragdoll, but he’s also a rare cinnamon Ragdoll. This means his fur is just as fluffy and soft as a typical Ragdoll kitty, but instead of a cream or tan-colored coat, he’s brown, like a toasty cinnamon color.

Bubba’s eyes, which are the typical Ragdoll’s bright, ocean-colored blue eyes, stand out against his darker brown coat, taking his cuteness to a whole new level. He knows he’s beautiful, and if he didn’t, the thousands of comments left for him on this video would for sure convince him. 

Related: Devon Rex Cat and Poodle Prove the Best Friendships Come Unexpectedly

One person wrote, “Brown cats are so rare. I swear, I’ve never seen one in real life. They’re so cute.”

Another shared, “I have 5 cats, and I’ve seen a lot of cats in person and on TikTok, but seeing a brown cat is extremely rare! So beautiful.”

Someone else added, “I have always wanted a brown kitty! Bubba is my dream cat! (I will pretend he’s mine!) He is beautiful!”

Other comments included, “My dog wouldn’t mind if I got a cat, right?” “This would be worth the allergies,” “Cats got the good stuff,” “I can’t explain it, but this is the cat version of my dog,” “One of the cutest cats on this planet,” and “Me and my granny loved brown cats.”

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Bubba is undeniably adorable, and it’s no surprise that some of that charm is attributed to his unique looks. But what makes the cinnamon coloring in cats such a big deal? Well, they’re rare!

According to Cats.com, cinnamon coats are one of the rare colors in cats, with their fur that’s a warm, light brown. Cats.com explains that this happens when the kitty has “two copies of the recessive allele for black (b1/b1),” which means both Mom and Dad cat have to have the recessive allele, too, and this doesn’t happen often. 

Some cat breeds that are more likely to have the cinnamon color, like the Ragdoll cat above, include the Oriental Shorthair, British Shorthair, Abyssinian, and Ocicat. Seeing how rare the cinnamon coat is, there’s no question why sweet Bubba is so beloved on social media!