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CATS

Title: Save 37% on Interactive Cat Toy – Black Friday Deal

by Julia Evans – Entertainment Editor November 15, 2025

written by Julia Evans – Entertainment Editor

Black⁢ Friday Deal: Interactive Cat Toy Now Under $20

Cat owners can snag a deal on an ‍engaging toy for their feline friends as an interactive, self-rotating ball is currently on sale for under $20⁣ during early Black ⁤Friday sales. The toy features a 360-degree rotating ball activated by a paw tap, colour-changing LED ‌lights, and obstacle detection ⁢to keep cats entertained.

This petite-sized toy ‍is designed to encourage active play, requiring cats to‍ pounce, tap, and swat to ⁣engage with the ‌moving ball. USA‌ TODAY Savings reports a 37% ⁤discount on the interactive cat teaser, making it an ⁣affordable option for pet enrichment. The sale ⁤comes ahead of the official Black Friday shopping ⁣event on ⁤November 28.

USA TODAY Shopping is‍ tracking Black Friday⁣ deals and ‍holiday gifts,offering updates via text alerts,TikTok,Flipboard,newsletters,and Instagram.

November 15, 2025 0 comments

Health

How to Get Your Cat or Dog to Lose Weight—Experts Weigh In (2025)

by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor November 8, 2025

written by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor

Pet Obesity Crisis Intensifies: New Tech & Expert⁣ Strategies for ⁢a Healthier 2025

NEW YORK, NY – A surge in ‍pet ⁢obesity rates ‌is prompting veterinarians ⁢and pet-tech innovators to collaborate⁤ on advanced solutions, as a growing number of cats and dogs face weight-related health complications.⁣ Recent data indicates over 60% of cats and 56%⁤ of dogs in the United States are overweight or obese, contributing to a‍ rise in diabetes, heart disease, and joint problems-conditions that significantly impact pet⁢ lifespan and⁢ quality of ⁢life. As owners increasingly seek proactive health management tools, a new wave of “smart” pet technology is emerging alongside refined veterinary guidance⁣ to tackle this escalating crisis.

The increasing⁣ prevalence of pet obesity‍ isn’t merely a cosmetic concern; it’s a serious public health issue for ⁤companion animals, mirroring trends seen in human⁢ populations.‌ The financial burden of treating obesity-related illnesses is also substantial, with owners potentially facing thousands ‌of dollars in veterinary bills. Experts predict ⁤that without ⁤intervention, these rates will⁣ continue to climb, necessitating a multi-faceted approach⁢ combining dietary adjustments, increased exercise, and continuous health monitoring. This year will see a greater emphasis ⁤on personalized wellness ⁣plans, leveraging⁣ data-driven insights to help pets achieve and maintain a healthy ⁢weight.

One emerging tool gaining traction is the smart pet collar,⁤ offering a comprehensive approach to activity tracking ‌and health monitoring. Devices like the Tractive tracker and the Fi mini Smart Pet Collar provide GPS location, sleep and activity data,⁢ and can ⁢even detect changes in vital signs. Testing of the Tractive tracker on ⁤a cat ⁤revealed its ability to establish baseline activity and sleep patterns, while the Fi ⁢Mini is being evaluated for a forthcoming‌ guide ⁣on smart pet collars. These collars allow owners to set daily activity goals and compare⁤ their pet’s performance⁣ to others of similar breeds and ages, fostering a more engaged approach to fitness.

Beyond technology, veterinary professionals emphasize‍ the importance⁢ of tailored dietary plans. “It’s not about simply reducing food intake,” explains ⁣Dr. Emily ⁣Chen, a ‍board-certified ‍veterinary nutritionist. “It’s ‌about providing a balanced diet with the appropriate caloric density for your pet’s age, breed, and activity level.” She recommends‍ consulting with a veterinarian to determine the optimal ‌food portion ⁣and type, frequently enough incorporating high-protein, low-carbohydrate⁣ options.

Furthermore, increasing‍ physical activity is crucial. For cats, this can involve⁢ interactive play sessions with toys like laser pointers or feather ‍wands, and also ‍creating stimulating environments with climbing structures and puzzle feeders. Dogs benefit from ⁣regular walks, runs, and playtime, with activity levels adjusted based on their ⁤breed and physical condition.Establishing consistent routines and incorporating exercise into daily life⁢ are key⁤ to ⁤long-term ⁢success.

The combination of⁢ advanced monitoring technology and expert veterinary⁣ guidance‌ offers a promising path forward in the fight against pet obesity. By proactively tracking activity levels, adjusting dietary habits,⁤ and fostering a more active lifestyle, owners ⁤can significantly improve their pets’ health and well-being, ensuring a longer, happier life‍ for ⁤their furry companions. The focus for 2025 and beyond will be ‌on preventative care and personalized wellness strategies, empowering owners to take ⁢control of their pet’s health ⁤journey.

November 8, 2025 0 comments

Health

Coronaviruses in Dogs and Cats: Surveillance and Genetic Analysis in Chengdu

by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor October 27, 2025

written by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor

chengdu, China – A new study reveals continued coronavirus circulation ⁣among ⁤companion ‍animals in Chengdu,⁢ Southwest China, one year ‌after the peak⁢ of the COVID-19 pandemic, with a disproportionate number of ⁤infections detected in young⁣ pets. Researchers identified four distinct coronaviruses – feline coronavirus (FCoV), canine ⁢coronavirus (CCoV), crcov, and SARS-CoV-2 – in nearly 22% of sampled animals.

The findings, published [date – implied from “first postpandemic year”], underscore the ⁢ongoing risk of coronavirus spillover between ‍animals and⁢ humans, and the critical need for sustained⁤ monitoring of these viruses in pet populations. ⁣The study,conducted on 309 samples from 263 cats and dogs,detected an overall positivity ⁤rate of 21.7% (57/263). Notably, 71.9% of positive cases (41/57) occurred in animals 12 months old or younger. This heightened⁤ vulnerability in⁣ young ⁢animals suggests a potential for rapid viral spread within pet communities.

Researchers employed a universal assay targeting the Rdrp gene,coupled with one-generation sequencing,to identify⁣ the viruses. ‍Genetic analysis⁤ revealed dominant genotypes of FCoV-I and CCoV-IIa. Moreover, a critically important proportion of CCoV-positive dogs (72.2%, 13/18) ‌exhibited coinfection with other viruses, most commonly‌ canine parvovirus (CPV, 76.9%; 10/13), and, less frequently, feline parvovirus (FPV, 13.9%; 5/36).

The ⁢study also documented genetic variations⁢ within FCoV and CCoV⁤ strains circulating ‌in the region. Specifically, ‌researchers ⁢identified a 21-nucleotide deletion in two FCoV⁢ S ⁤ genes and a 145-nucleotide deletion in one FCoV ORF3abc gene,⁢ alongside evidence of recombination events in the S* genes at positions 919 and 1639 nt. Amino acid variations in the *S genes of both‌ FCoV and CCoV ⁤indicated⁤ regional adaptation,⁢ with FCoV strains displaying unique substitutions like Ala/Ser129Leu ⁤and a shift in the furin cleavage ‍motif from RSRR to ⁣RARR. Chinese CCoV strains also showed significant divergence from those found‍ in other‍ countries.

Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the S* genes of FCoV and CCoV were closely related to ⁤prevalent strains within China, while the⁢ *S genes of CRCoV showed ⁢closer ties to human coronavirus OC43. The ⁢study⁤ included⁣ the first confirmed case of SARS-CoV-2 in a dog in mainland China, verified through viral ‌nucleic ‌acid detection and analysis. These findings reinforce the importance of ongoing surveillance, especially ‍in young companion animals, to mitigate the risk ⁢of coronavirus emergence and transmission in the ‍postpandemic era.

Keywords: ‍codetection; ‌companion ⁤animals; coronavirus; genetic characterizations; recombination.

October 27, 2025 0 comments

Technology

Warehouse Hangs ‘Free Cats’ Sign Out Front And New York City Residents Rush In To Help

by Rachel Kim – Technology Editor October 25, 2025

written by Rachel Kim – Technology Editor

Warehouse Posts ‘Free Cats‘ Sign, Sparks Adoption Rush in⁢ New York City

New York, ⁢NY ‍- A warehouse ⁢in‍ New ‌York City experienced an unexpected ‌surge in visitors this week ⁣after‌ posting ⁢a simple sign: “Free Cats.” The impromptu adoption event,initiated by warehouse staff to find homes for a feral cat colony living on the property,quickly‌ drew a massive response from local residents eager to provide loving homes.

The warehouse,located in an industrial area,had been managing a growing population of⁤ feral cats for some‌ time. Rather than relying on traditional trap-neuter-release programs, staff decided to attempt direct adoptions, hoping to quickly and compassionately address the situation. The sign, posted with⁤ little expectation ‌of ⁤such a⁢ dramatic outcome, instantly went viral on social media, prompting a ⁤flood of inquiries and⁢ ultimately, a heartwarming⁣ adoption rush.

“We just wanted⁢ to find good homes for them,” said a warehouse employee who ⁤wished to remain anonymous.”We were overwhelmed by the response.‌ People were lined‌ up, ready to take‌ a cat home.”

Volunteers quickly organized the process,ensuring each cat‍ received a basic veterinary check‌ and was matched with ⁤a suitable ‍adopter. Within days, dozens of cats found new families,‌ transforming a simple act of kindness into a community-wide effort. ‌The warehouse continues to work⁣ with local rescue organizations to manage the remaining cat population ⁤and⁣ ensure responsible ⁤rehoming practices. the event highlights⁤ the ongoing ‌need for affordable spay and neuter services and the enduring appeal‌ of feline companionship in New York ⁢City.

October 25, 2025 0 comments

World

Māori-named kārearea crowned bird of the year in New Zealand poll

by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor September 29, 2025

written by Lucas Fernandez – World Editor

Kārearea, Māori-Named New Zealand Falcon, soars to Victory in National Bird Poll

WELLINGTON, New Zealand – In a stunning result reflecting growing recognition of Māori culture and conservation concerns, the kārearea, or New Zealand falcon, has been crowned bird of the Year in New zealand’s annual poll. The fiercely independent raptor secured a record 9,802 votes, surpassing all previous winners and signaling a shift in public engagement with native species.

The victory comes as New Zealand grapples with declining investment in conservation efforts, despite the economic importance of its unique biodiversity, notably for tourism. The Bird of the Year competition,while frequently enough lighthearted,has increasingly become a platform to highlight the plight of threatened species and advocate for increased protection. This year’s outcome underscores a desire among voters to champion not only charismatic birds but also those facing significant challenges.

The 2024 poll saw unprecedented participation, with a near-record voter turnout. All 73 bird competitors attracted campaign managers, demonstrating a widespread passion for New Zealand’s avian wildlife. Even birds considered unlikely contenders garnered support, with the tākapu, or Australasian gannet, receiving 962 votes thanks to a grassroots campaign led by political journalist Marc Daalder. “Running a campaign for one of the less popular birds is a more satisfying experience because you know the votes your bird received are a result of your hard work,” Daalder said.

The kārearea’s win is particularly significant given its vulnerable status and the cultural importance of the bird to Māori. The name “kārearea” itself is of Māori origin, and the falcon holds a prominent place in Māori mythology and art.

However, the poll’s outcome also delivered a sobering message. Forest & Bird’s Toki expressed concern that New Zealanders may become discouraged from supporting conservation of the most threatened species as protection costs rise, particularly in combating predators like cats, rats, and stoats. “successive governments in New Zealand have cumulatively reduced investment in conservation, which is the cornerstone of New Zealand’s economic prosperity,” she stated, emphasizing the link between conservation and the country’s tourism industry. “people come here to see our native birds and the places they live in,” she added, “They’re not coming here to see shopping malls.”

The results of the Bird of the Year poll are expected to fuel further debate about conservation funding and the prioritization of native species protection in New Zealand.

September 29, 2025 0 comments

Business

Who Gives More To Charity? 800 Million Donation Records Analyzed

by Priya Shah – Business Editor September 27, 2025

written by Priya Shah – Business Editor

Pet Owners & philanthropy: New Study Reveals How Furry Friends Influence Charitable Giving

HANOVER, NH – A groundbreaking analysis of nearly 800 million charitable donation records⁢ has⁣ revealed surprising connections between pet ownership ⁤and giving behavior. Teh ⁣study, published online September 19, 2025, in the journal Anthrozoös,⁣ demonstrates that while non-pet⁤ owners donate larger⁤ amounts ⁢cat and ⁤dog owners exhibit ‌distinct‍ patterns in donation‍ frequency, diversity, and‌ even political alignment.

Researchers at Dartmouth College’s⁣ Program in Quantitative Social Science, led by Ho-Chun Herbert Chang, examined⁢ a ⁣massive dataset⁢ of 62,763,634 donors and 787,877,198 ⁢transactions ⁤totaling $69.7 billion, collected‍ by a‌ nonprofit marketing⁣ company between⁤ 2013 and 2022. Pet ownership was categorized into four groups: ⁢No Pets (39%), Both Cats and Dogs (34%), Dogs Only (18%), and‌ Cats Only (9%).

The findings challenge simple assumptions⁣ about charitable giving.While non-pet owners⁣ donated an average ‍of over $1,000 ⁤in total, cat owners donated more frequently -⁣ an average of‌ 14 times over the decade compared to 11 times for non-pet owners.Furthermore, cat owners demonstrated a broader range of charitable interests, with only 52% giving to a ‌single⁢ institution, compared ⁢to 63% of those without pets. This indicates a greater “donation diversity.”

“Our ties with our beloved pets reflect more ‍than companionship,” ⁣the study suggests, possibly shaping how⁤ individuals connect with causes and communities.

Using ⁢a machine learning technique called CatBoost regression,⁤ researchers identified pet ownership as the fourth most notable predictor of donation amounts,⁢ following income, education, and gender. The analysis also uncovered intriguing political trends. Cat ⁤owners leaned Democratic, while dog owners showed higher rates of Republican affiliation. Pet owners, in ⁢general, were more likely to identify ‌as independents, while non-pet owners‍ were more often non-partisan.

The study utilized⁢ the Wasserstein‌ metric (Earth ⁢Mover’s distance) to measure statistical distances between giving patterns and Shannon entropy to quantify diversity.‌

Researchers acknowledge⁣ several⁣ limitations. ⁢The dataset comprised⁢ existing donors, introducing a selection bias ⁢towards those already⁤ inclined to philanthropy. Demographic⁣ data was collected only at the initial data entry point and wasn’t⁣ updated‍ throughout the study period. Crucially, the study was observational, preventing the establishment‌ of causal relationships. additionally, the donor database showed a higher proportion of pet owners than ‌reflected in national census data, suggesting potential overrepresentation ‍of⁣ pet owners among charitable contributors.

The research received exemption status from the Dartmouth Committee for the Protection of ‍Human Subjects (STUDY00033213). The author reported no potential conflict of interest. The study⁤ was published by Taylor & Francis Group and the International ⁣Society ‍for Anthrozoology⁤ (ISAZ).

The full study, “Pet Ownership Ties as Indicators for Giving Behavior,” is available online at https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/08927936.2025.2544418.

September 27, 2025 0 comments

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