Like dogs, cats also have an estrous, or heat, cycle. However, female cats, which are called queens, are induced ovulators. This means that they do not ovulate (pass an egg) unless they are bred. This greatly increases the chances of conception when bred, which is why stray queens often have many kittens per year. The queen can enter her first heat as young as 4 m
Puppies can generally be taken from their mother and littermates beginning at 7 to 8 weeks of age. Puppies, like babies, require a lot of attention, including veterinary care, feeding, socialization, and training.
The reproductive cycle in female dogs has 4 phases. Female dogs that have not been spayed (bitches) typically have 2 estrus or “heat” periods per year (about 6 months apart), each lasting about 2 to 3 weeks. In some dogs, the intervals between estrus are much longer. The first heat occurs between 6 and 15 months of age, depending on the size of the dog (later in larger breeds). Females can become pregn
Routine health care refers to the non-emergency, general care that is needed to keep your cat healthy throughout its life. This includes routine veterinary care for vaccinations, parasite control, and dental care; proper nutrition; grooming; and protection from household hazards.
In addition to feeding and exercising your dog, other aspects of general care are needed to keep your dog healthy throughout its life. These include routine veterinary care for vaccinations, parasite control, and dental care; grooming; and protection from household hazards.
Pet ownership carries responsibilities that should not be taken lightly. Just like dog ownership, cat ownership carries both ethical and financial responsibilities. Research has also shown that the bond that can develop between people and animals as a result of owning and caring for a pet has significant social and health benefits ( see Health Benefits of Pet
Pet ownership carries responsibilities that should not be taken lightly. Pets are family members that need to be cared for throughout their entire lives, not disposable possessions that can be discarded if they become inconvenient. Pets also carry financial responsibilities for housing, a quality diet, and veterinary care. The latter includes routine veterinary examinations, preventive vaccinations,
Cats do not require the same level of attention or activity often demanded by dogs. This makes them excellent pets for people who have decreased mobility, a busy lifestyle, or limited living space (such as apartment dwellers). However, as with dogs, you should consider temperament, breed characteristics, age, and other factors when deciding whether cat ownership
Choosing the dog that is right for you and your family is very important. The large variety of breeds means that dogs come in all sizes, shapes, and colors, and have a range of temperaments. Many dog breeds have been developed for specific purposes and behaviors. A mismatch can result in unnecessary stress and lead to behavioral problems, which can be difficult to correct.
People have associated with cats for thousands of years. Cats were first domesticated in Egypt more than 3,000 years ago. Even earlier, they were worshiped as gods: the Egyptian gods of fertility and war were given feline personalities. Feline images can also be found on early Greek and Roman vases, statues, and coins.
Wild cats (such as tigers, leopards, civets, and bobcats, for example) are among the best hu