Articles tagged with Pet Animals
Researchers have discovered a novel virus in ball pythons that could be the source of severe respiratory disease, with implications for public health and animal care. The virus, named ball python nidovirus, has been sequenced and found to be similar to toroviruses, which infect mammals and fish.
Researchers used PET imaging to study Tongxinluo's neuroprotective effects in rats. The study found that Tongxinluo reduced brain damage after middle cerebral artery occlusion, highlighting its potential as a treatment for acute stroke.
A study by Northwestern University found that children's understanding of the natural world is influenced by their cultural background and experience with nature. Children from different communities were asked to name all living things they could think of, revealing convergences and differences in their responses.
Researchers tracked cat food intake over four years and found a 15% decrease during summer months. Cats were more inclined to 'comfort eat' when it's cold outside.
A study led by a Cummings School veterinarian aims to explore the benefits of pets in reducing childhood obesity. The research project will test whether companion animals can aid children in sticking with weight loss interventions.
Researchers at UGA found that children who interacted with a virtual pet completed an average of 1.09 hours more physical activity per day compared to those without the pet. The study used a mixed reality environment and a virtual dog, allowing kids to set goals and engage in physical activity.
A study analyzing ancient chicken DNA found that traits like yellow skin only became widespread in the last 500 years, contradicting previous assumptions about domestication. Researchers compared DNA from 81 ancient chickens to those of modern chickens, revealing significant genetic differences.
A worldwide review of studies on animal interventions in healthcare settings for children found a major gap in scientific knowledge. Despite theories emerging since the 1960s, research has been limited, leaving many questions unanswered.
A study found that feeding cats smaller meals more frequently increased their physical activity, particularly when anticipating meal times. This approach can be a practical solution for pet owners to manage feline obesity and diabetes.
Research reveals widespread ignorance among cat owners about their pets' reproductive cycles, leading to millions of unplanned litters and health problems for mother cats and kittens. Improving owner knowledge could significantly reduce the numbers of accidental litters.
A recent study found that feral cats in urban areas tend to avoid core activity areas of urban coyotes, which can be up to 40% of their home range. This avoidance is likely due to the threat posed by coyotes, leading to a reduced impact on wildlife in urban green spaces.
Researchers have identified a new way to relieve pain in dogs with bone cancer, using a single spinal injection of neurotoxin. The treatment showed promise in reducing pain levels, offering an alternative to more aggressive approaches like amputation and chemotherapy.
Researchers at Newcastle University developed a technology that tracks dog behavior to detect potential health issues in owners. The system uses movement sensors and machine learning algorithms to identify changes in canine behavior that may indicate declining health or boredom.
Researchers at the WALTHAM Centre for Pet Nutrition found that overweight dogs in middle age have a shorter life expectancy, with some breeds facing significant reductions. The study examined data from over 5,000 dogs and found that being overweight can have long-term consequences for a dog's lifespan.
Research shows lactating cats increase total calorie consumption and alter diet composition to meet physiological requirements. Cats with large litters select foods to reduce protein and carbohydrate intake, increasing fat consumption.
A University of Illinois study found that 34% of abused women delayed leaving their homes because they were concerned about their pets. The study recommends that shelters provide resources and support for pet owners, including counseling and temporary pet care.
Researchers have identified compounds found on human skin that impede mosquitoes' ability to detect their victims, providing a promising new approach to preventing mosquito bites. These substances, including lactic acid and 1-methylpiperzine, are already used in various medicines and products.
A recent study published in the journal Age and Ageing found that stressful life events significantly raise the risk of falls in older men. The research, conducted on 5,994 community-dwelling men over 65, showed that men who experienced serious financial problems or the death of a loved one were more likely to fall.
Studies show that human-animal interaction boosts social skills in adolescents, provides mental health support for people with dementia, and improves social relationships and physical activity among pet owners. Positive effects are attributed to structured interactions with animals.
A study of British auction markets found that buyers on behalf of abattoirs preferred purchasing larger animals with maximum meat yield, excluding ponies. The research did not support the claim that the horse meat industry targets pet ponies for slaughter.
A new survey tool is being developed to help pet owners monitor their dogs' quality of life during chemotherapy for cancer. The tool, based on a pilot study with 29 dog owners and veterinarians, found that certain behavioral changes can indicate the animal's quality of life, providing a common ground for treatment decisions.
Researchers found that magpies take quicker decisions when humans are observing them, even if they don't perceive humans as a threat. This skill may have evolved to aid in survival near humans for centuries.
A study by Connie Svob and Norman Brown found that people are more likely to remember transitional moments from their life stories, such as promotions or pets. The researchers identified distinct elements or life markers that separated the two groups of participants, suggesting a positive predisposition to detect and remember change.
A study by University of Maryland biologist Daphne Soares reveals that guppies jump up to eight times their body length at speeds of over four feet per second. The biologists hypothesize that this behavior allows guppies to disperse and reach all available habitat, minimizing competition and maintaining genetic variability.
Research highlights the importance of nutritional sustainability in pet food production, offering alternatives to minimize environmental impact while meeting animal needs. Educating consumers and adopting sustainable feeding practices can also help reduce waste and promote pet health.
New molecular techniques offer insights into pet obesity, with a focus on understanding how nutrients affect gene expression. Researchers aim to prevent obesity by identifying key biological compounds and their impact on metabolism., Pet obesity affects over 50% of US dogs and cats, leading to chronic disease and reduced lifespan.
A new study reveals the presence of chytrid fungus in amphibians sampled in Singapore, with the American bullfrog identified as a potential carrier. The study also finds widespread disease among frogs in Vietnam's commercial farms, raising concerns about the spread of infectious diseases through trade.
Researchers found that raw meat diets met many nutrient requirements for cats, but there were gaps in linoleic acid and arachidonic acid levels. Pet owners may need to supplement with other nutrients, including fat and essential fatty acids. The study highlights the importance of proper nutrition for domestic and exotic felines.
A longitudinal study of Labrador Retrievers in the UK is providing valuable insights into canine diseases and veterinary care. The research found that four out of ten dogs were ill at some point, with 80% showing signs of illness by one year old.
Researchers found that cats regulate their macronutrient intake by altering food selection despite differences in food content, moisture level, and texture. Cats achieve a consistent balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrate when provided with pairs of foods over 3-day cycles.
Three new species of slow loris were identified, revealing distinct differences in body size, fur thickness, habitats, and facial markings. This reclassification may increase legal protections for the endangered or threatened animals, as well as highlight the cruelty of keeping them as pets.
A study found that 93% of new couches purchased in the last seven years contained flame retardants. The most concerning were 'Tris' chemicals, which are considered probable human carcinogens and have raised health concerns. Researchers detected untested or high-risk flame retardants in over half of the analyzed foam samples.
The American Gut project aims to characterize the microbes living in and on human bodies, with a focus on diet and lifestyle's impact on health. The public is encouraged to participate, and the study will analyze data from tens of thousands of individuals.
A national research effort is underway to monitor antibiotic resistance in Australian livestock and companion animals. The study aims to provide a clearer picture of the state of Australian livestock and inform mitigation strategies.
Researchers have identified the underlying mutation responsible for the Selkirk Rex cat breed's curly hair. The dominant SADRE gene is distinct from other breeds and allows for genetic diversity.
A study by the WALTHAM Centre for Pet Nutrition found that dogs regulate their macronutrient intake, preferring a fat-rich diet. The research also showed that some dogs consume more than twice as many calories as required when given excess food, highlighting the importance of responsible feeding measures.
A University of California, Berkeley researcher found that people are more likely to assign positive personality traits to orange cats and less favorable ones to white and tortoiseshell cats. The results suggest that cat color stereotypes can have a negative impact on adoption rates at animal shelters.
The expanding raccoon population in Europe threatens native species and human health with infectious diseases such as rabies and Baylisascaris procyonis. The spread of these illnesses is linked to the raccoon's adaptability, high reproductive potential, and lack of natural predators.
Research published in PLOS ONE found that autistic children who received a pet scored higher in 'offering to share' and 'offering comfort' categories after the pet arrived compared to before. Participants who had lived with pets since birth showed weaker relationships with their pets.
Researchers at Tufts University have developed two surveys, FETCH and CATCH, to evaluate the quality of life for dogs and cats with heart disease. The tools ask owners to rank aspects of their pet's health on a scale of 0-5, allowing veterinarians to assess the animal's perceived quality of life.
A Wayne State University researcher is studying the impact of training animal shelter dogs on social skills and quality of life in incarcerated teens. The study aims to measure effects on depression, empathy, and attachment to both humans and animals.
A new study by Durham University found that modern dog breeds have little in common with their ancient ancestors due to thousands of years of cross-breeding. The research analyzed genetic data from 1,375 dogs and showed that even breeds labeled as 'ancient' are not closer to the first domestic dogs.
A collaborative team of researchers identified a safe upper level for vitamin A consumption in puppies, highlighting that puppies can metabolize higher levels of vitamin A than previously thought. The study validated existing guidelines set by the FEDIAF and provides valuable insights into puppies' nutritional needs.
A new study by the University of Bristol estimated that over 260,000 cats and dogs entered UK rescue organizations in 2009. The majority of these animals were not rehomed but instead cared for until space became available, revealing a significant need for animal adoption and welfare support.
A study published in the American Journal of Veterinary Research found that healthy cats can consume a diet rich in saturated fat without raising their cholesterol levels. The research also showed that increasing the proportion of fat in a cat's diet will not lead to weight gain, as long as daily calorie intake remains constant.
A collaborative team of researchers found that obese dogs who successfully lost weight showed improved health-related quality of life, as measured by increased vitality scores and decreased emotional disturbance and pain. The improvements were more pronounced in dogs with greater body fat loss.
Researchers at UGA have developed an animal vaccine that could slow the deadly spread of Chagas disease, which affects millions in Central and South America. The vaccine uses a genetically modified parasite that induces a strong immune response without replicating inside the host.
A recent study by WALTHAM Centre for Pet Nutrition and University of Liverpool found that pregnant women who own dogs are approximately 50% more likely to meet the recommended daily physical activity level. This research highlights the potential benefits of dog walking as a low-risk exercise strategy for managing weight gain during pre...
A multi-year study published in PLoS One found that domestic cats and wild cats living in the same area share diseases such as Toxoplasmosis, Bartonellosis, and FIV. This can happen through contact with shared habitats, even if they don't come into direct contact.
A CWRU study reveals that pet ownership helps women manage their HIV/AIDS through social roles such as advocate, pet owner, and faith believer. The research highlights the importance of these lesser-known roles in self-management behavior.
Researchers at MU found that tiny increases in creatinine levels in pets' blood can indicate acute kidney damage. A new staging system helps veterinarians assess the severity of kidney injury and predict outcomes.
A Duke University study found that pre-teen girls are just as likely to react aggressively to a friend's betrayal as boys, but may struggle more with feelings of sadness. The research suggests that girls' friendships require a different approach than previously thought, focusing on teaching them how to cope when a friend lets them down.
A nationwide study of over 17,000 dogs and 6,000 cats found that including commercial dry food in their diet improved oral health compared to home-prepared alternatives. Daily tooth brushing or dental chews also showed significant benefits.
Researchers at WALTHAM Centre for Pet Nutrition found that a diet high in moisture boosts urinary tract health in cats by increasing daily water intake, urine volume, and dilution. This helps reduce the risk of urinary stone disease in cats.
A team of researchers at WALTHAM found that neutered female kittens consumed more food and gained more body weight than their entire littermates. The study suggests that portion control is crucial for maintaining healthy weight in neutered kittens.
Researchers found that exposure to chimpanzees in human settings in ads makes people less concerned about the risks they face and less likely to donate to conservation charities. The study suggests reevaluating media practices and conservation priorities.
A recent study found that most feline intestinal cancers are lymphoma and tend to occur in the small intestines. The researchers also identified a higher risk of intestinal cancer in Siamese breed males over seven years old.
A new study led by a University of Florida researcher verifies that the pet trade is the No. 1 cause of invasive amphibian and reptile introductions in Florida. The study documents 137 non-native species, with about 25% traced to one animal importer.
Researchers from Caltech and UCLA found that the human amygdala responds preferentially to images of animals, with no emotional content influencing this response. This hemispheric asymmetry suggests an early evolutionary specialization for processing unexpected stimuli in the right hemisphere.
A study by Henry Ford Hospital found that prenatal pet exposure is associated with lower IgE levels in infants, reducing the risk of allergies and asthma by age 2. The findings also suggest that delivery mode and race can influence allergy development.