Welcome pet pals, to another edition of High Class Pets – where sophistication meets paw-some adventures! 🐾 

Get ready for a whisker-twisting, tail-wagging rendezvous as we uncover exclusive tips, heart-melting tales, and the epitome of pet luxury. Let's dive into a world where every bark and meow exudes elegance and charm. Welcome to the haute couture of pet parenthood! 🎩🐾

Here is the Scoop for Today

• New Study Says Dogs Can Sniff Out Stress

• A Cute Cat Discovers a New Favorite Snack!

• Human Food That is Toxic to Dogs

New Study Says Dogs Can Sniff Out Stress

Do dogs have a special ability to sense when people are upset? Not exactly, but their keen sense of smell does offer them unique insights into our emotional states, which can, in turn, affect their own feelings, according to a groundbreaking study.

This research found that dogs can be significantly impacted by the stress of humans they don’t know. Empathetic dogs, in particular, can become more anxious or gloomy when exposed to the scent of stressed individuals.

The study, conducted by the University of Bristol, Cardiff University, and the British charity Medical Detection Dogs, involved 18 dogs and 11 humans. Researchers heightened the participants' stress levels and collected their sweat on cloth squares placed under their armpits.

After the participants had become stressed and sweaty, the dogs were introduced to a room with three bowls: one filled with food and two empty. The dogs were first given the chance to sniff a cloth stained with the sweat of a stressed or calm person. They were then presented with a third bowl.

Findings revealed that when dogs smelled the sweat of a stressed person, they were more hesitant to approach the third bowl. In contrast, when they smelled the sweat of a calm individual, they approached the bowl without hesitation. This reaction remained consistent regardless of the bowl arrangement.

It’s well known that dogs have a special bond with humans, including their ability to detect the stress hormone cortisol and influence our emotions. Engaging with dogs has been proven to lower our stress levels and boost our happiness by increasing oxytocin.

This study highlights that our stress can also affect our dogs’ emotional well-being, revealing an even deeper level of connection between us and our canine companions.

This Kitty Just Discovered A New Favorite Snack!

@mr.cattttttt

When the kitten who has been eating watermelon rind suddenly eats watermelon flesh..#cat #eating #cute

Can Cats Eat Watermelon?

Yes, cats can eat watermelon, but there are some precautions to keep in mind. According to Purina, watermelon is non-toxic to cats and can be offered as an occasional treat. However, it’s essential to ensure the watermelon is seedless, as watermelon seeds contain trace amounts of cyanide, which can be harmful to cats.

Is Watermelon Good for Cats?

While watermelon is safe for cats to consume, it doesn’t provide significant health benefits. As noted by PetMD, the fruit offers minimal nutritional value to cats. They might get a bit of hydration, potassium, or vitamin C, but these benefits are limited compared to their regular diet.

Since watermelon isn’t a natural part of a cat’s diet, it’s important to avoid overfeeding. Too much watermelon can lead to digestive issues such as an upset stomach or diarrhea.

If your cat is overweight or has diabetes, it’s best to avoid giving them watermelon. The sugar content in the fruit could exacerbate these conditions and lead to additional health problems.

How to Feed Watermelon to Cats

If you decide to offer watermelon to your cat, make sure to remove all seeds and rind. Both can pose choking hazards or cause intestinal blockages and upset stomachs.

Cut the watermelon into small, bite-sized pieces and offer them to your cat. Keep in mind that not all cats may enjoy the fruit, so if your cat shows disinterest or a negative reaction, don’t force them to eat it.

Human Food That is Toxic To Dogs

Feeding your dog leftovers might seem like a great way to make them feel like part of the family, but it's important to be cautious about what you share.

While it's generally fine to give your dog small amounts of people food, it's crucial not to overdo it or substitute too much dog food with human food. Just because your dog seems to prefer your scrambled eggs over their kibble doesn't mean it's the best choice for them.

To keep your furry friend healthy and happy, here’s a list of foods you should avoid feeding your dog:

1. Chocolate, Coffee, and Caffeine: Chocolate contains methylxanthines, which are toxic to dogs. The toxicity level depends on the type and amount of chocolate. Dark chocolate and cocoa powder are the most dangerous, while milk chocolate is less toxic but can still cause digestive issues. Coffee and other caffeinated products also contain methylxanthines, making them hazardous to dogs. For a more detailed look at safe amounts, you can use an interactive chocolate toxicity chart.

2. Xylitol: This artificial sweetener, commonly found in sugar-free gum and some baked goods, is extremely toxic to dogs. It can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar, leading to seizures, coma, and potential liver failure. Immediate veterinary care is crucial if your dog ingests xylitol, as it can result in severe health issues and possibly permanent liver damage.

3. Corn Cobs: While not typically fed intentionally, dogs are often drawn to corn cobs in the trash. If a dog swallows a corn cob, it can cause a blockage in the digestive tract, which may require veterinary intervention. Gnawing on a cob is generally safe, but swallowing it can be dangerous.

4. Raw Meat and Bones: There’s a trend toward feeding dogs raw diets, but both the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and we recommend against it. Raw meat and bones can pose serious health risks, including bacterial infections and bone splinters. If your dog ingests a bone, whether raw or cooked, contact your veterinarian for advice.

5. Avocado: Avocados contain a substance called persin, which is toxic to some animals. The ASPCA advises that all parts of the avocado plant are potentially harmful to dogs. However, some pet food brands use avocado oil safely, so there’s some debate. It's best to avoid giving avocado to your dog to be safe.

6. Onions, Garlic, and Chives: These foods can cause gastrointestinal upset and more severe health issues like blood thinning and anemia if consumed in large quantities. Keep your dog away from holiday dishes containing these ingredients.

7. Milk: While not toxic, many dogs (and cats) are lactose intolerant, which means that milk can cause digestive problems such as diarrhea. It’s best to avoid giving your dog milk or dairy products.

8. Raisins and Grapes: These fruits are known to be toxic to dogs and can lead to kidney failure. Even small amounts can be harmful, so it's best to keep them out of your dog's reach.

9. Macadamia Nuts: These nuts are toxic to dogs and can cause symptoms like vomiting, tremors, and lethargy. Avoid giving your dog macadamia nuts or foods containing them.

By keeping these foods out of your dog’s diet, you can help ensure they stay healthy and avoid any potential health issues.

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