We all love our pets, but millions of owners suffer from allergies caused by their companions. While pet allergies are best treated through avoidance, modern medicine, plus a little hard work, can make living a comfortable life with your pet possible if you have mild to moderate symptoms.   Most people blame dog or cat hair for their allergies, but animal hair is not an allergen on its own. Rather, the proteins found in pets’ dander, saliva or urine trigger allergic reactions when people come into contact with them. To make matters worse, pets’ coats can collect pollen, mold and other allergens that affect millions of people. Symptoms often include a runny nose, itchy eyes, sneezing and constricted breathing, but these can be signs of an allergic reaction to something other than to your pet. The first step towards treating a pet allergy, then, is establishing that you are, in fact, allergic to your pet. This can be done through allergy testing, during which a professional allergist injects a small amount of test allergens into your skin to identify the specific substances triggering symptoms. If Fluffy or Fido is the source of your allergy, there are several ways to manage symptoms without saying “goodbye" to your companion:   1. Re-organize your home to include designated “pet-free” zones where allergen levels are reduced. Keeping your pet away from your bedroom, home office and other spaces where you spend a lot of time can greatly reduce symptoms, as can teaching him to stay off the furniture.   2. Invest in hypoallergenic bedding and an air purifier that reduces airborne allergens.   3. Bathe your pet about twice a week help reduce dust, pollen and other allergens caught in your his coat.   4. Clean your home regularly: Change air filters, vacuum and wash bedding—including your pet’s bedding—more often.   5. Given the option, choose hardwood or tile floors over allergen-catching carpets. Choose furniture that is less prone to collecting allergens.   After making changes to the environment around you, you can turn to modern medicine for more help managing pet allergies. Over-the-counter medications such as Claritin, Benadryl or Zyrtec can relieve mild allergies symptoms such as itchy eyes or congestion, and prescription medicine can also help. Unfortunately, these medications won’t alleviate asthma-related symptoms: Only environmental factors can help. Some animal lovers also take allergy shots, known as immunotherapy, to get long-term relief from their symptoms. This involves injecting a very small dose of a known allergen into the body, gradually increasing a person’s tolerance to that allergen. Immunotherapy has been shown to provide effective and long-lasting relief from allergy symptoms in some cases, but requires patience: It may take almost a year of weekly injections before you can switch to a monthly maintenance dose, and several years after that before you can stop the shots altogether.   Living with an animal when you have pet allergies requires extra work, but it’s often possible to maintain a comfortable life without giving up your pet’s company.

Spring is the season for new growth and with it comes runny noses, itchy eyes and a host of other symptoms of seasonal allergies. Humans aren’t the only ones who suffer seasonally, however: Many of our pets are also allergic to pollen, mold and other common allergens. What many animal lovers don't realize is that dogs and cats have different reactions to the same things we’re allergic to. There are four main types of allergens that affect our pets. Depending on what type of allergy your pet has, he will display different symptoms. While some dogs and cats have watery eyes and sneezing fits, the most common reaction to allergies is itching in our furry friends. Incessant scratching can lead to open sores, hair loss and infected wounds if the underlying cause is not addressed— meaning knowing the signs of allergies and finding the right cure crucial to your pet’s wellbeing. Environmental allergens that pets inhale or cause problems when they come into contact with the skin are known as atopy and include pollen, mold spores and dust mites. Another common seasonal ailment is flea allergy dermatitis, a reaction some animals have to the saliva in fleabites. Though pets can also experience food allergies and contact allergies caused by plastics, carpet fibers and other substances, these are less common and less seasonal. Atopy symptoms range from gnawing at the feet to constant licking of the side and groin; incessant face rubbing; inflamed ears or chronic ear infections; lesions, hotspots or scabbing; and asthma-like wheezing and other respiratory problems. Red or inflamed skin and hair loss caused by itching, scratching, biting and chewing are telltale signs your pet is suffering from seasonal allergies. Because fleas are out in force during the warmer months of the year, flea allergy dermatitis can be a seasonal problem, too, indicated by itchy spots and red bumps. If your dog or cat shows any of these symptoms and you suspect he is suffering from seasonal allergies, visit your veterinarian. Based on the type of allergy and severity of systems, your vet will suggest different treatments for your pet. Some animals respond to antihistamines, which you should only give with your veterinarian’s guidance. Pets suffering from extreme itching and discomfort may need steroids to provide fast relief. If your dog or cat has a secondary skin infection, he may also require antibiotics. An intradermal skin test, which injects a small amount of test allergens into your pet’s skin, can help pinpoint the problem of moderate to severe allergies and may allow your vet to create a specialized serum or immunotherapy shot for your companion. At home, try avoiding known allergens, or wiping your pet down or bathing him regularly of you cannot avoid the offending substances.

They may look like a mustache, but for our feline friends, whiskers are far more than a fashion statement. A cat’s facial hair helps him judge his place in space, “see” in the dark and even avoid hungry predators and catch prey. For these reasons, it’s crucial that you never trim your cat’s whiskers, which can leave him disoriented and unable to skillfully escape from dangerous situations.   Also known as tactile hairs or vibrissae, whiskers are filled with highly sensitive nerves that help cats judge distance and space. That’s thanks to a tiny sensory organ at each whisker’s tip, called a proprioceptor, that allows cats to pick up vibrations from other animals nearby or changes in their environment. Follicles embedded deep in a cat’s skin then relay these messages to his brain, giving your cat his graceful, lightning-fast reflexes.   Cats’ whiskers don’t just grow on their upper lips, however. Our feline friends have the same sensitive hairs along their eyebrows, chin and near their feet. Each set of whiskers correlates to the position of your pet’s body and limbs, making them a crucial part of knowing where he is and making split-second decisions about his movements. Whiskers on your cat’s back legs help him climb trees, for example, while those on his upper lip are just about as wide as his body, allowing your pet to judge whether he can fit through a small opening. Whiskers are highly sensitive, too, allowing cats to feel changes in vibrations in the air, which helps them while they are chasing prey or avoiding a hungry predator.   While whiskers’ main function is as your cat’s GPS, they also act a barometer for his moods. A complex set of facial muscles controls cats’ whiskers and a relaxed feline will leave his whiskers immobile, sticking straight out from the sides of his face. Cats engaged in hunting or other intense pursuits often press their whiskers forward, while nervous, angry or defensive cats pull their whiskers back close to their face— a hint that you should back off and give your pet some space.   Just like other hair, whiskers shed and grow back, so don’t be alarmed if you find one on the floor. You should never trim your cat’s whiskers, though, since they are a crucial part of his mobility and sense of security. Without them, your cat wouldn’t be able to skilfully navigate his surroundings, leaving him disoriented and vulnerable to dangerous situations.

Most cat owners have a funny photo of their feline friend totally relaxed, tongue dangling from his mouth. While an outstretched tongue is normally a harmless—and adorable—feline quirk, any pet that’s taken to sticking out his tongue constantly is likely suffering from an injury or breathing issue that’s preventing him from closing his mouth.   Cats spend up to one-third of their lives bathing, so it’s no surprise they often have their tongues out. Cats’ tongues have stiff, backward-facing spines known as papillae that form a rough surface ideal for removing loose hair. Though most cats groom with laser-sharp focus, it’s not uncommon for felines to get distracted mid-lick. This leaves Kitty in a compromised position with his tongue dangling for several seconds. Likewise, cats can get so relaxed while resting or sleeping that their mouths hang open slightly, allowing your pet’s tongue to dangle in a comical, but completely healthy, way.   Problems arise when cats leave their tongues out constantly. This can signal a medical issue, as it’s likely your pet is sticking out his tongue due to an injury, breathing issue or other ailment that’s preventing him from closing his mouth. Feline periodontal disease, including inflammatory conditions such as gingivitis, is more common than many pet owners realize, and these mouth and gum conditions can cause your pet to stick out his tongue in an effort to relieve pain. Drooling and red, swollen or bleeding gums are common symptoms of an oral ailment. Oral tumors or fractured teeth can also cause Kitty to dangle his tongue, as can kidney failure, which can lead to painful ulcers on your cat’s gums. If you notice your pet sticking his tongue out more often than normal, or see any other symptoms of physical distress, take him to the veterinarian to check for gum disease, oral abscesses, tooth decay and other medical problems.   Remember, while dogs pant to cool off, this behavior is not normal in healthy cats. While chances are your cat’s tongue dangling is simply an endearing quirk and not a medical emergency, watch for sudden and unusual changes in your pet’s behavior. If he is sticking his tongue out more often than normal or constantly, or is showing other signs of physical distress, have your veterinarian examine him to rule out ulcers, abscesses and other medical conditions that can cause cats to leave their mouths hanging open.

We’ve all had the jarring experience of a cat jumping onto our laps, purring away, only to watch Kitty flip and suddenly give us an angry bite or swat just minutes later. This Jekyll-and-Hyde behavior may seem strange to humans, but to our feline friends, petting-induced aggression makes perfect sense.   Cats are not, by nature, close-contact animals. Accepting human affection is a learned behavior and some cats have a very low tolerance for touch. Once this threshold is passed, cats actually feel discomfort, rather than pleasure, from petting. It’s no wonder our pets want us to stop lavishing them with love, but humans are often obvious to the overstimulation taking place. Fortunately, cats use a series of body language to let us know when they’ve had enough affection and it’s time to back off.   Telltale signs that Kitty is fast approaching his affection quota include tail lashing, skin twitching, a shift in body posture, meowing or growling, flattened ears, and meeting you or your hand with a direct gaze. If your cat exhibits any of these signs, stop petting him immediately and leave him alone. If you continue petting him, chances are your pet will lash out by biting or clawing you as, in his mind, he’s already told you to back off.   All cats are different and you may be surprised by your pet’s boundaries when it comes to physical affection. Most cats don’t like belly rubs, for example, but some feel just as uncomfortable being stroked down their backs. Learning your cat’s favorite spots to be pet—and which to avoid— will help build trust between you and your pet. With time, you’ll be able to gauge your cat’s individual preferences and know when to stop petting even before he exhibits any warning signs.   Because petting-induced aggression is your cat’s last resort at communication, never punish your pet for lashing out. In his mind, your cat has already given you ample warnings to stop, all of which you ignored. Yelling, chasing or hitting your cat will only make him afraid of you and damage your bond. Instead, watch your cat’s body language to learn when he is enjoying affection and when he’s had enough. Ending a snuggle session on a positive note not only leaves your cat wanting more, but ensures that physical touch stays a positive part of you and your cat’s relationship.   If your cat is exhibiting sudden petting-induced aggression, you may want to visit a veterinarian to rule out pain as the source of his moody behavior. Cats with a tender spot could lash out when you touch the sore area, for example, so it is helpful to find out if Kitty has an abscess, arthritis or other physical ailment. Be sure to supervise children around your cat, too, since they are unlikely to recognize the warning signs that come before petting-induced aggression.

Empty cardboard boxes may seem like trash to us, but to our feline friends, they offer a safe space to sleep, keep warm and hide from passersby. It’s no wonder cats love to play in boxes, then, which offer them safety and security from the outside world.   Predators by nature, cats are experts at finding spots to hide while watching their prey. Though our domesticated pets no longer need to hunt to survive, the instinct remains and cardboard boxes provide the perfect vantage for scoping out passersby. By hiding, your cat can quickly dash out and catch whatever walks past—though his target is more likely to be your feet than his next meal these days.   Cats’ love for boxes stretches to comfort, too. Small spaces provide the ideal retreat or “safe zone" for Kitty to have an undisturbed catnap. This is important, given that cats can sleep up to 20 hours a day and don’t want anyone sneaking up on them while they’re asleep. Cats also naturally have a higher body temperature than humans—around 100 to 102 degrees Fahrenheit, compared to our 98.7 degrees—so they are more comfortable in warmer settings. Boxes provide great insulation, so it’s no wonder owners often find their felines nestled up inside one.   Though they have many practical purposes, boxes also pique cats’ curiosity. Inquisitive by nature, your pet can’t resist exploring any new object left in his home. While cardboard doubles as a great scratching post and is a feline favorite, cats will explore any small containers left out, from suitcases to wooden crates and open dresser drawers.   Because they offer safety and security, boxes can help put nervous pets at ease. When moving, try placing a box or two in your new home to give your cat a safe space from which to explore his new surroundings. When introducing a new pet to the household, or if you’re away for long periods of time, leave an empty box out to help calm your cat. A report published in Applied Animal Behaviour Science backs claims that boxes help relieve stress: Researchers found that, among a group of cats arriving at an animal shelter, those randomly assigned to receive a box adapted to their new surroundings faster than their box-free peers. It’s our feline friends love cardboard boxes and the comfort and security they provide.

Cats evolved in arid environments, making them well adapted to tolerating thirst. Too little water can increase your pet’s risk for developing urinary crystals, though, meaning it’s crucial to keep Kitty well hydrated. Pawing at his water bowl may be your pet’s way of saying he isn’t happy with his current dish, but there are changes you can make to ensure your cat stays healthy and hydrated. Cats have sensitive whiskers, which can explain why some avoid their water bowls. Whiskers are equipped with touch receptors that give your cat a heightened sense of feeling ideal for navigating his surroundings, but this can also cause “whisker stress” when your pet drinks from a small dish. Instead of squashing his whiskers against the side of the bowl, your pet may opt to dip his paw in the dish and drink water that way. Or, he might resort to drinking from leaky faucets or the toilet to avoid the unpleasant sensation of squishing his whiskers. If you suspect whisker stress is causing your pet’s water woes, try using a flatter, shallower dish.   Cats naturally seek out running water, too, which can explain why some avoid diving face-first into their water bowls. Flowing water is more likely to be fresh, which is why some pets prefer to get their water from faucets or dip their paws into the dish to aerate the bowl. To help ensure Kitty’s water stays fresh, try changing it twice a day, or you can consider purchasing an automatically recirculating water fountain designed specifically for cats. It’s best to use a stainless steel bowl, too, rather than a plastic dish that can give off an odd odor.   While instincts and comfort can explain some cats’ odd behavior when it comes to water, others paw at their bowls for more practical reasons. Water levels vary in the dish and cats are often trying to gauge its height, especially older pets with poor eyesight. To help Kitty see the water in his dish, get a bowl with a design on the bottom and try to keep water levels constant in the bowl. Sometimes, however, our feline friends are simply playing. Cats are curious by nature and using their paws to make ripples in the dish provide them with entertainment. While this sort of behavior is normal, it can make a mess. Recirculating water fountains designed for cats won’t just keep your cat’s water fresh, but can help reduce the mess your pet makes when splashing in his bowl.

The American Humane Association estimates that more than 10 million cats and dogs are lost or stolen in the United States each year. Collars and tags can help reunite lost pets with their families, but even tagged animals can slip their collars or have tags too worn to read. More and more owners are turning to microchipping, then, to help locate lost pets.   A microchip is a small, glass cylinder injected just below a pet’s skin, often between the shoulder blades. The procedure takes just seconds and equips your four-legged friend with a chip the size of a grain of rice. Each chip holds a radio transmitter and tiny electronic device, which contain an animal’s unique ID number. When a lost pet is taken into a shelter, a scan reveals this chip, which allows workers to identify the animal and use a database to contact his owners.  At an average cost of just $45 from your local veterinarian, a microchip is an investment that will last your pet’s lifetime and greatly increases your chances of being reunited with a lost pet. A study of 53 animal shelters by the American Veterinary Medical Association found that only 22 percent of dogs entering the shelters were reunited with their owners— a number that jumped to 52 percent for microchipped dogs. Less than 2 percent of cats entering the shelters were reunited with their owners, but that number increased to more than 38 percent for microchipped felines.   Though microchipping saves many animals’ lives each year, there are a few risks associated with the chips. In very rare cases, veterinarians have inserted the chip in the wrong place or the chip migrated after it was implanted. While this is generally harmless, a few instances have caused infections or abscesses. There have also been rare cases where tumors developed near microchips, though it is unclear whether they were caused by the chips or not. Given the millions of animals that have had microchips inserted without incidence, the risk is extremely low. However, owners should weigh these risks against what could happen—including not being able to find their pets and potential euthanization in shelters—when deciding whether or not to microchip their pets.   While a microchip will last your pet’s lifetime, a chip is only as good as its registration. After equipping Fido or Kitty with a microchip, it’s important to submit your registration and keep your contact information up-to-date. This includes updating your address and telephone number any time they change so rescue workers can reach you. Discuss microchipping with your veterinarian to find out which chips are most commonly use in your area. Different companies sell different chips, so finding out which chips local shelters can scan—and which are most universally read—can increase your chances of being reunited with a lost pet. Keep traditional identification tags on pets with microchips, too, in case a scanner misses the chip or an individual without access to a microchip scanner finds your pet.

Cats can provide companionship, playmates and more enriching lives for their fellow felines, but introducing a new cat into your household can bring a flurry of tension and hostility when you already have a furry friend. By carefully planning introductions, however, you can ease both cats’ anxiety as they adjust to sharing a home.   Before bringing a cat home, you should first consider which companion you will choose. If your current cat likes to play, a more animated feline is likely a good fit. Likewise, elderly cats may not get along well with energetic kittens. Once you’ve picked your new pet, make a plan for how you’ll introduce him to your resident cat. One of the best ways to ease both pets’ introductions is to set up a special, isolated room for your new cat. This not only gives him a safe spot to adjust to his new home, but allows both cats to smell and hear each other before actually meeting face-to-face. Outfit the room with a litter box, food and fresh water, toys and a few cozy spots for hiding so it feels as welcoming as possible.   Smell is a crucial part of cats’ communication, so make sure your two felines have ample opportunity to get used to each other’s scents before meeting face-to-face. You can do this by feeding both cats on opposite sides of the isolation room door or using a towel to rub both cats, especially on their cheeks where they have pheromone-producing glands. Try switching the cats to opposite rooms after a day or so to allow them to adjust to each others’ smell. Once any hissing or growling through the door subsides, they are likely ready for a visual introduction.   For Kitty’s first encounter with your new pet, use a screen door or baby gate high enough to prevent either cat from jumping over it, or try cracking the door just a few inches to gauge your cats’ reactions if you don’t have any see-through barriers. If both cats seem comfortable, you can allow them to meet face-to-face. Otherwise, continue business as usual feeding, playing with your cats and giving them treats on their respective sides of the gate or door. If a cat won’t eat his food directly in front of the barrier, don’t worry: Move his dish back several feet and gradually inch it closer to the door. In a few days, both cats should be eating comfortably on their respective sides of the barrier and are ready to share a space.   Watch your cats from a distance when they first meet and don’t be alarmed if they hiss, walk away or completely ignore each other. If one cat shows signs of stress or aggression, separate them again and introduce them more gradually. With time, your feline friends will form a bond, providing them with companionship and a more fulfilling life. If, however, you’ve tried introducing your cats slowly and one is still harassing the other, seek advice from a professional behaviorist on how to create harmony among your feline friends.

We all have a plan to keep our families safe when a hurricane, tornado or flood hits home, but making a plan for your pet is equally important when preparing for disaster. Thinking ahead not only helps keep you and your furry companion safe, but increases the chances you and your pet will be reunited if you’re separated during a disaster.   One of the best ways to prepare for an emergency is to ID your pet. Four-legged friends and their owners can be separated for any number of reasons during a disaster, and outfitting your pet proper identification can make a huge difference in your chances for reuniting. Microchips are a great way to do this, and cost only around $45 at your local veterinarian’s office. Collars with tags, including your current contact information, are also useful when it comes to finding a pet. Be sure to keep your pet’s microchip registration up-to-date and include emergency contact information for family or friends outside of your immediate area in case you cannot be reached.   After ensuring Fido or Kitty can be easily identified, finding a pet-friendly place to stay during evacuation is key to planning for an emergency. Look up out-of-area hotels that accept pets or pre-arrange to stay with a friend or relative who doesn’t mind sharing space with your furry friend. Never leave your dog or cat behind if you evacuate. If, however, you have to leave Fido or Kitty, ensure you have a Rescue Alert sticker placed somewhere easily visible on the outside of your house to alert rescue workers to watch out for your animal. The ASPCA provides these stickers free at https://secure.aspca.org/take-action/order-your-pet-safety-pack. Animals often sense impending danger before we do, so bring outdoor pets inside as soon as you know a storm will hit. This can stop your companion from running away and will ensure he stays safe throughout the storm. Stressed-out pets can act out of character, so separate your dogs from cats and any other pets, if possible. Create an emergency kit for each of your pets, including stocks of items such as food, fresh water, any medications your pet takes, a pet first aid kit, temporary ID tags and a carrier or leash for each animal. You may also want to keep a copy of your pet’s vaccination records and a photo of you with your pet in case you need to prove ownership or make “lost pet” fliers after the disaster. Experts recommend keeping enough stocks to last your pet one week in case of an emergency.   Make sure you talk to your neighbors and designate someone willing care for your dog or cat if you’re unable to do so yourself when disaster strikes. This person should have a key to your home and, ideally, be familiar with your pets. Remember, different areas are prone to different types of disasters, so research which are most likely to strike your home and plan accordingly for your and your four-legged friend.