You are receiving this message because you have visited our site and requested to be contacted. If you no longer wish to be contacted, please use the removal link: REMOVE. | | | | Maximize Your Reach With Targeted Newsletter Ads | | Welcome to Paws & Tails – the ultimate newsletter for pet lovers who see their furry friends as family. Dive into heartwarming stories, expert pet care tips, and the latest in pet lifestyle trends, all designed to celebrate the joy cats and dogs bring to our lives. With every edition, Paws & Tails delivers engaging content that keeps readers coming back for more, while giving advertisers the perfect platform to connect with a passionate, pet-focused audience.
Our readership is 75% female and 25% male, featuring dedicated pet owners, animal enthusiasts, and pet care professionals who live and breathe all things paws and tails. Spanning ages 25 to 54, these readers earn $50,000 to $100,000 annually and are eager for insights on pet health, training, nutrition, and the newest pet-friendly products. Rooted in suburban and urban communities across the U.S., especially pet-friendly hotspots, this audience prioritizes the well-being of their four-legged companions.
Advertise with Paws & Tails to connect with an engaged community that’s as loyal as the pets they love! | | | | | British Shorthair: The Perfect Family Companion | | | | A Charming and Low-Maintenance Cat Renowned for their cuddly appearance and easygoing personality, British Shorthairs are an ideal choice for families looking for a loyal companion. These cats boast plush coats and round, affectionate faces that invite admiration, often resembling a soft teddy bear. While their hearts are as big as their appearance, British Shorthairs tend to prefer a balance of affection without becoming overly needy.
Distinctive Appearance British Shorthairs are instantly recognizable by their thick, muscular bodies, broad chests, and round faces with adorably pinchable cheeks. Their short, dense coat comes in a range of colors, but the most popular shade is the blue-gray, which gives rise to the iconic “British Blue” term. These cats typically sport bold, expressive eyes that range from amber to green, depending on their coat color. Despite their large size, they are surprisingly low-maintenance when it comes to grooming, needing only weekly brushing to keep their coats healthy and clean.
A Balanced and Loving Temperament British Shorthairs strike the perfect balance between playful and calm. Their easygoing nature makes them great companions for families, children, and even other pets like dogs. Though they enjoy attention, they do not crave constant interaction and are equally content spending time alone. Known for their loyalty, they form strong bonds with their owners and will often follow them around the house, but they prefer not to be overly cuddled or held. Their intelligence is high, though they tend to avoid showing off by performing tricks or engaging in overly demanding behavior.
Living Needs and Comfort These cats are adaptable and do well in various living situations, provided they have a consistent routine and plenty of interactive toys to engage their minds and bodies. While British Shorthairs appreciate playtime, they also enjoy relaxing moments, stretching out on a cozy perch in a sunbeam. Larger litter boxes and climbing structures are essential for comfort, and regular exercise helps prevent weight gain as they age.
Minimal Care Requirements Despite their plush fur, British Shorthairs are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. A weekly brush is typically enough to remove dead hair, and they manage their cleanliness without much assistance. Routine health care, such as nail trims, dental care, and regular vet visits, ensures they remain healthy. Monitoring their weight and keeping their environment clean is key to preventing health issues.
Health and Lifespan British Shorthairs are known for their robust health and can live for up to 20 years with proper care. While generally hardy, they can be prone to specific health conditions, such as heart problems and urinary tract issues, which can be mitigated by regular vet checkups. Due to their more sedentary lifestyle, it's essential to ensure that they stay active through interactive toys and play.
A Storied History The origins of the British Shorthair trace back to the Roman era when these cats were brought to England for their exceptional vermin-hunting abilities. Over time, their docile nature and charming personalities made them beloved family pets. Today, the breed enjoys widespread popularity, thanks to its impressive history and consistent appeal.
Fun Facts The British Shorthair’s distinctive look has made it a favorite in literature and pop culture. The Cheshire Cat from Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Puss in Boots from Shrek are believed to have been inspired by this breed's signature smile and round face. | | | | Supporting a Wobbly Pup: Caring for Dogs with Cerebellar Hypoplasia | | | | Understanding Cerebellar Hypoplasia in Dogs Cerebellar hypoplasia is a neurological condition that affects a dog's ability to control its movements. This condition results from the underdevelopment of the cerebellum, the brain region responsible for coordinating muscle movement and maintaining balance. Dogs with cerebellar hypoplasia struggle with basic actions like walking, standing, and eating, and may exhibit tremors and exaggerated movements.
Causes of Cerebellar Hypoplasia This condition typically arises when the cerebellum fails to develop properly during pregnancy or shortly after birth. Genetic mutations play a significant role, particularly in certain breeds, including Airedales, Boston terriers, Bull terriers, and Chow chows. Additionally, exposure to infectious diseases, poor maternal nutrition, or toxins during gestation can contribute to cerebellar underdevelopment.
Recognizing the Signs of Cerebellar Hypoplasia The symptoms of cerebellar hypoplasia may not become apparent until a puppy begins to walk and explore, usually around 2 to 6 weeks of age. Common signs include clumsiness, a wide stance, intention tremors (shaking while focusing on an object), and frequent falls. While these symptoms may resemble typical puppy awkwardness, they indicate a neurological issue that requires attention. The condition does not worsen over time, though some dogs may adapt and improve their motor control.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Cerebellar Hypoplasia Veterinarians diagnose cerebellar hypoplasia through physical exams, history, and possibly diagnostic tests, such as blood work or MRI scans. Unfortunately, there is no cure for the condition, but treatment focuses on supporting the dog's needs to ensure a comfortable life.
Caring for a Dog with Cerebellar Hypoplasia Though cerebellar hypoplasia is not curable, dogs with this condition can thrive with proper care. Providing physical support, like harnesses or assistive devices, helps these dogs navigate their world more safely. Some dogs benefit from non-slip rugs, specialized feeding assistance, and mobility aids like wheelchairs. A tailored care plan developed with a veterinarian ensures that the dog’s needs are met as they evolve.
A Loving and Adaptable Companion Despite their challenges, dogs with cerebellar hypoplasia are full of affection and joy. With the right adjustments, they can live long, happy lives, offering love and loyalty to their families. The key to caring for these special dogs is creativity and patience—finding ways to support them while including them fully in family life. | | | | | | | | | | Chic Names for Your Black Cat | | | | Choosing the Perfect Name for Your Black Cat Selecting the right name for a black cat can be as unique as the feline itself. With their striking appearance and playful nature, these cats deserve names that reflect both their beauty and personality. Whether the name highlights their mysterious aura or playful antics, it’s important to choose something that feels just right.
Halloween-Inspired Names for a Touch of Mystery Black cats have long been associated with Halloween, bringing to mind names that are both spooky and charming. Names like "Autumn," "Dracula," and "Monster" evoke the magic of the season, while names such as "Phantom" and "Shadow" emphasize their elusive, mysterious quality.
Witchy and Mystical Names for Your Enchanting Companion For those drawn to the mystical, witchy names are a perfect fit. Names such as "Luna," "Morticia," and "Magic" capture the ethereal, enchanting vibe that often accompanies black cats. These names are ideal for those who believe their cat has a touch of the supernatural.
Badass and Bold Names for the Fierce Black Cat If your black cat exudes confidence and strength, choose a name that reflects their powerful persona. "Harley," "Vader," and "Storm" embody the intensity and edge of a black cat with a fearless attitude.
Unique and Creative Black Cat Names For a truly one-of-a-kind name, explore options like "Comet," "Misty," and "Umbra." These names play off the cat's dark, captivating color while adding a layer of originality and style.
Classic and Fun Names for Your Little Companion For those who prefer something playful, names like "Domino," "Bean," and "Pea" bring out the cat's quirky side. These names are perfect for a black cat with a fun-loving, mischievous personality. | | | | Why Does Your Dog Smell Like Fish? 5 Common Causes | | | | 1. Dental Issues A foul breath odor, including a fishy smell, could be a sign of dental disease in dogs. Common causes include bacterial buildup, tooth infections, or periodontal disease. Symptoms of oral problems may include difficulty eating, pawing at the face, and a noticeable decrease in appetite. To address this, regular professional cleanings are necessary, as plaque can turn into tartar after a few days, making it difficult to remove with home brushing alone. Incorporating dental chews can complement brushing, but they should not replace daily teeth cleaning.
2. Anal Glands A fishy odor coming from your dog's rear end is most often caused by issues with the anal glands. These small sacs near the anus store a scent-marking liquid that dogs normally release when they defecate. When these glands become overly full or infected, they can emit a strong, unpleasant odor. Additional signs that may indicate anal gland problems include scooting, licking the area excessively, or discomfort. Routine veterinary care may be necessary to express the glands and ensure there are no underlying issues.
3. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) A persistent fishy smell may also be linked to a urinary tract infection (UTI), which can spread to other organs if left untreated. Other signs of a UTI include frequent urination, bloody urine, and straining to urinate. UTIs can be treated with antibiotics, so it's important to consult a veterinarian as soon as symptoms appear. In rare cases, smelly urine can also point to kidney or liver problems, so it’s essential to address the issue promptly.
4. Yeast Infections or Skin Conditions Excessive yeast growth on the skin can result in a corn-chip-like odor, but when left unchecked, it can cause severe discomfort. Yeast infections often occur in areas prone to moisture, such as the paws, ears, and underbelly. Common symptoms include redness, hair loss, sores, and persistent licking. A vet can prescribe antifungal treatments, including creams or oral medication, to help resolve the infection.
5. Vaginal Infections Female dogs, particularly those not spayed, are prone to infections like vaginitis or pyometra, which can lead to a strong, fishy smell. A vaginal infection may also cause discharge, excessive licking, and irritation. In severe cases, pyometra requires urgent surgical treatment. If your dog shows signs of discomfort or unusual discharge, it’s important to consult a veterinarian for appropriate treatment. | | | | Essential Guide to Bottle-Feeding Kittens with Formula | | | | Feeding Newborn Kittens the Right Way For orphaned kittens, a mother cat’s milk provides essential nutrients for growth and development. However, when a kitten is separated from its mother or unable to nurse, kitten formula and bottle feeding become the vital alternative to ensure a healthy start. With the right supplies and a consistent feeding schedule, orphaned kittens can thrive under careful care.
What to Feed a Newborn Kitten Newborn kittens should only be fed a high-quality commercial kitten milk replacement, designed to mimic a mother cat’s milk. These formulas are specially created to offer a balanced blend of essential nutrients like calories, vitamins, and minerals. It's important to avoid feeding kittens cow's milk or human baby formula, as these can lead to digestive problems such as diarrhea, dehydration, and even death. If kitten formula is unavailable, goat’s milk can serve as a temporary option until the right formula is found.
Choosing the Right Kitten Formula Kitten milk replacer is available in two primary forms: dry and canned. Dry formulas offer flexibility, as they can be mixed fresh for each feeding, minimizing waste. This type of formula also tends to be gentler on a kitten’s stomach, reducing the risk of digestive upset. Both canned and dry formulas must be refrigerated after opening and should be used before their expiration dates. The formula should have a slightly sweet smell; any unpleasant odors indicate spoilage, and the product should be discarded.
How to Bottle-Feed a Newborn Kitten During the first 6 to 8 weeks of life, kittens need to be bottle-fed every 2 to 3 hours. The amount of formula and feeding schedule will evolve as the kitten grows. A general guideline is to offer less than a tablespoon of formula per feeding. However, it’s essential to tailor the feeding plan to each kitten’s unique needs and consult a veterinarian for personalized advice.
Steps to Safely Feed a Newborn Kitten: Warm the Kitten: Cold kittens are unlikely to nurse. Ensure the kitten's body temperature is between 96°F and 100°F before attempting to feed. Prepare the Formula: Mix the kitten formula and fill a bottle specifically designed for kittens. Warm the bottle in a bowl of warm water, ensuring the formula is comfortable to the touch (around 100°F). Feed the Kitten: Gently place the kitten on a towel with its belly down and tilt the head slightly back. Introduce the bottle’s nipple and allow the kitten to suck. Never feed a kitten on its back to prevent choking. If necessary, use a syringe to assist the feeding. Clean Up: After feeding, wipe the kitten’s face with a baby wipe or warm washcloth to remove any excess formula.
Making Kitten Formula in an Emergency If commercial kitten milk replacer is unavailable, a homemade mixture can serve as a last resort. Combine goat’s milk, egg yolks, karo syrup, and gelatin as a temporary substitute. However, this should only be used in emergencies, and a veterinarian should be consulted as soon as possible. |
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