Scientists from the Universities of Edinburgh and California, UK Dementia Research Institute and Scottish Brain Sciences studied the brains of 25 cats who showed signs of dementia after they had passed away. They found that there was a build-up of the toxic protein amyloid-beta in the brains of cats with the condition, which is one of the defining features of Alzheimer’s disease in humans.
This finding will help scientists determine if the treatments for humans with dementia may help cats, dogs and other pets who suffer from dementia. Unlike rodents, cats naturally develop the brain changes associated with Alzheimer’s disease. The research may lead to treatments for pets.
Journal Reference:
Robert I. McGeachan, Lucy Ewbank, Meg Watt, Lorena Sordo, Alexandra Malbon, Muhammad Khalid F. Salamat, Makis Tzioras, Joao Miguel De Frias, Jane Tulloch, Fiona Houston, Danièlle Gunn‐Moore, Tara L. Spires‐Jones. Amyloid‐Beta Pathology Increases Synaptic Engulfment by Glia in Feline Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome: A Naturally Occurring Model of Alzheimer\’s Disease. European Journal of Neuroscience, 2025; 62 (3) DOI: 10.1111/ejn.70180
Cite This Page:
University of Edinburgh. “How cats with dementia could help crack the Alzheimer’s puzzle.” ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 14 August 2025. <www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250813083611.htm>.
Understanding the breeding process will help you identify the quality of the puppy or dog that you wish to purchase. The following is the last (eighth) part in a series of eight articles about breeding dogs. Although it applies to a dog, it also applies to cats. People do not realize that there are cat mills which are like puppy mills. Note that these articles are based on my years of experience, my opinion and that I do not intend to refer to any individual. Please read the entire eight articles to glean a full understanding of breeding.
Part Eight
The Stud
As the owner of a male dog that you wish to stud, you have responsibilities as well. As stated in Part One, only the best bitches and males should be bred. The only reason to breed is to better the breed.
The male should be evaluated by an ethical breeder to determine that he is the quality to breed. This should also be reflected by wins in either the conformation show ring or as a working dog in working competitions.
The male dog must have all the medical testing that the bitch has, to include all genetic issues that the breed may have. A temperament test is also necessary.
As the owner of the stud, you may be required to board the bitch for breeding. Often when two dogs are kept for breeding, they both will cry, howl and bark day and night.
Do you know how to handle the problem bitch who does not want to be bred or the male who has not been bred before and needs help?
Are you qualified to judge a five-generation pedigree to determine if the bitch is a good match with your stud dog?
If the owner of the bitch is not experienced, are you qualified to advise the owner about whelping, raising puppies and selling them?
Do you know at what point in the bitch’s season is the correct time to breed them and how often?
What kind of guarantee will you give to the owner of the bitch? If the breeding doesn’t take, will you provide your stud in six months for a re-breeding?
Are you prepared, if the owner of the bitch cannot cope with the litter, to take the litter and be responsible for caring for and selling the puppies? It has happened where the owner of the litter dumps the entire litter on the owner of the stud.
In conclusion for both male and female dog owners. Keep in mind that there are only so many people willing to own a dog. The shelters are loaded with dogs and cats that people have given up for many reasons. Often because they got tired of caring for the pet, or an elderly family member passed away, and no one wants the pet. Some dogs and cats are put up for adoption because the owners could not deal with the level of energy or could or would not train the pet to be a well-behaved companion. Every breeder or stud dog owner who produces a puppy or kitten, potentially condemns one to death. Therefore, make sure that you have a good reason for breeding. I am not saying that you should not breed, we need different breeds to perform the many jobs that they do for us but be sure that the puppies you produce are the best and worth it.
Understanding the breeding process will help you identify the quality of the puppy or dog that you wish to purchase. The following is the sixth part in a series of eight articles about breeding dogs. Although it applies to a dog, it also applies to cats. People do not realize that there are cat mills which are similar to puppy mills. Note that these articles are based on my years of experience, my opinion and that I do not intend to refer to any individual. Please read the entire eight articles to glean a full understanding of breeding.
Part Six
Many people who opt to breed their bitch do not fully grasp the amount of care that a litter of puppies requires. Once the litter is more than two weeks old, the real work starts. First, the litter must be kept in a place in your home that is easy to access and to clean. It is usually a whelping box and then a confined area in the home.
Typically, puppies will dump their food and water. They also eliminate in their area which needs to be cleaned and disinfected continually. If you do not clean the area quickly, the puppies will walk, roll or lay in their messes. If that happens then you will have to clean the puppies as well as their area. If their area is not disinfected the area and possibly your house will start to have an unpleasant odor and be unhealthy for the puppies. Even if you have an exercise pen outside to put the puppies for an hour or so, that area must be cleaned as well.
The breeder must be home for the puppies most of the day. Young, weaned puppies must be fed four times a day.
By the time the puppies are six weeks old they will need a veterinarian visit to check for worms and get their first shots. Remember, this cost will be times the number of puppies in the litter.
When the puppies are eight weeks old it is time to bring the litter to the breeder that is your mentor for evaluation. You need to do this so that you can price your puppies fairly. Not all puppies in a litter are show quality or working quality. A male puppy may only have one testicle descended; another puppy may not have the correct structure or have an improper bite. Another may have a bad topline or is cow hocked, and the rest may not be bad but are not outstanding either. If you are lucky, one puppy in the litter may be show quality.
Understanding the breeding process will help you identify the quality of the puppy or dog that you wish to purchase.The following is the fourth part in a series of eight articles about breeding dogs. Although it applies to a dog, it also applies to cats. People do not realize that there are cat mills which are similar to puppy mills. Note that these articles are based on my years of experience, my opinion and that I do not intend to refer to any individual. Please read the entire eight articles to glean a full understanding of breeding.
Part Four
If after careful thought you decide to breed your bitch, the process has just begun. First, if you purchased your dog from an ethical breeder, you should go back to your breeder to find out if your bitch is breeding quality. This will involve studying her pedigree or family tree. It is a good idea to consult with a few breeders. Find out what your dog’s good points and faults are.
You want to find out what inherited problems are associated with your breed. Next you want to consult with your veterinarian to arrange for any tests that are available to evaluate your dog. This could mean having your dog X-rayed for hip dysplasia and then registered with the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA). If your breed has a tendency for eye problems, you will need to have a canine ophthalmologist examine your dog and then register your dog with the Canine Eye Registration Foundation. You may also want your dog temperament tested by the American Temperament Test Society, Inc. These are just three examples of the type of tests that are required for ethical breeding.
Your veterinarian should also check your dog for worms including heartworms (if your dog has not been on a monthly preventative), and any other disease that may cause problems with breeding or the puppies.
If a number of breeders have determined that your bitch is worthy to breed, you want to further prove your bitch by entering and winning a few conformation shows or working competitions even if it is only an obedience competition.
Next on the recommendation of the breeders that you have consulted, you want to seek out a decent stud dog. The stud dog should have had all the tests necessary for the breed. If possible, you want to match the lines of the stud dog so that they are compatible with the lines of your bitch. The stud dog should have been proven in several ways, such as having sired quality litters before, won dog shows or working trials. The stud dog should have at least the same qualifications as your bitch, ideally more.
When your bitch comes in season let the owner of the stud dog know. There will be a stud fee and if necessary, a boarding fee while your bitch stays with the breeder of the stud dog. It is important that you have written contracts between you and the owner of the stud that outline what guarantees you are entitled to for the stud fee. In some cases, artificial insemination may be required. If this method is used, the litter is usually small.
Stud fees vary from a cash payment and/or first pick of the litter. If your breed is not known for having more than one or two puppies in a litter, this could mean you will only have one or no puppies to sell yourself.
Be prepared to make several trips to the stud dog for the breeding. It does not happen with one breeding.
Understanding the breeding process will help you identify the quality of the puppy or dog that you wish to purchase.The following is the third part in a series of eight articles about breeding dogs. Although it applies to a dog, it also applies to cats. People do not realize that there are cat mills which are similar to puppy mills. Note that these articles are based on my years of experience, my opinion and that I do not intend to refer to any individual. Please read the entire eight articles to glean a full understanding of breeding.
Part Three
There are six types of breeders.
There is the ethical breeder who studies lines and has a goal that they hope to accomplish with a breeding. This goal can be for a litter who has a solid temperament, true working ability or just to meet show standards. It is important to understand that temperament and intelligence are the two qualities that make a dog a good pet or working dog. A dog who meets the conformation standard without a good temperament or intelligence is not a desirable pet or working dog.
Ethical breeders are typically involved with a breed club or organization that monitors the ethics of the breeder. The ethical breeder does not produce multiple litters at one time and often only has one or two litters a year. They do not breed their dogs before they are tested for inherited issues or are under two years old. The ethical breeder will only breed those dogs who are worthy of breeding having been cleared of inherited issues and has been proven as the best quality for the breed. Only exceptional dogs are bred.
Ethical breeders often have waiting lists for puppies because their lines have been proven. They also only line breed or outcross. They rarely if ever inbreed.
The ethical breeder rarely makes a profit from their dogs due to the expenses of raising, testing and proving their dogs. Their litters are consistent in temperament, health and conformation. The ethical breeder will often guarantee the quality of their puppies and puppies from an ethical breeder are registered with a recognized registry.
The new breeder. Everyone must start sometime. A small in-home breeder who is being mentored by an experienced breeder can be a quality, ethical breeder. Not every breeder has a large kennel. Most ethical breeders have several dogs that live in their house with them as pets. A home-raised puppy from an ethical breeder is an ideal situation to get your new puppy from. The quality of the breeding is not measured by the number of dogs a breeder has, but by the care, planning and goals of the breeder.
The commercial breeder mass produces puppies from a limited number of dogs. Their puppies are often registered with a national registry, but the care and planning of the lines do not exist. Their goal is to make money so they often shortcut the testing and care of their dogs including the puppies. Their puppies are not from proven stock, are not consistent in temperament, health and conformation. These breeders will produce the breeds that are popular and likely to sell.
The puppy mill breeder. These people breed solely for profit. The dogs are often kept in cages and rarely given attention. They are not part of the family but viewed as livestock. They do no testing or planning and have no goals except to produce puppies and make money. Often these puppies are not pure and are not registered or if they are, they are registered with a non-recognized organization that supports puppy mills.
These puppies are often not consistent in temperament, conformation and are more prone to health issues.
The backyard breeder. This is the person who thinks they can make money from their pet. Due to a lack of understanding about breeding these puppies are one step away from the puppy mill breeder. The parents have no health testing; there is no consistency in the litter since they are randomly bred with no understanding of genetics. There is also no guarantee with the puppy.
The last type of breeder is a rather recent phenomenon. This is the designer dog breeder. These people take two different breeds and try to create a dog of their own design. There is no consistency in the puppies that result because they do not have a solid goal. One of the excuses these people use is to create an allergy free dog. Because allergies are not a result of dog hair but of dander, this is not possible. All dogs have dander. Unfortunately, since there is no consistent conformation with designer dogs, there is no way other than a DNA test, to prove that the dogs are the mix that the breeder claims. I have had clients come to me with a dog that was supposed to be a Labradoodle, and the dog grew up to be a terrier. Unfortunately, there is no way to guarantee the puppies, and the buyer cannot know for certain that they are getting what they paid for. Also, it is unfortunate that these breeders charge as much or more for the mixed breed puppies as a buyer would pay for a well-bred puppy from an ethical breeder. These puppies are not registered or if they are, they are not registered with a recognized organization.
What is also important to consider is that a person who has a well-bred dog from an ethical breeder is not likely to cross this quality dog with another breed. Therefore, by default, many designer dogs are created from less desirable stock.
A Curious Kind of Love by J.K. Findle, $9.99, 40 pgs, 8/12 x 11, available on Amazon.
One day a beautiful cross-eyed lynx point Siamese cat showed up on J.K. Findle’s driveway. The author saw the cat, but when the author went out to see the cat, he ran away. Over the next few weeks the cat came to trust Findle, who left food outside for him. One day the cat, whom the author named Phantom, walked into the trap to eat food.
Once caught J.K. Findle took the cat to the veterinarian where he was examined and given a clean bill of health. It turns out that lynx point Siamese cats often have crossed eyes, so it was not a medical issue.
This delightful book is suitable for children, tells the heartwarming story about Phantom, which Findle adopted. With many photos and a detailed account of Phantom’s life, the author shows us how a very special bond developed between them.
I purchased this book for my grandson’s, 8 and 10, who have three cats of their own. I can’t wait to give it to them. The size of the book makes it easy for children to hold and allowed the author to include larger photos. It is written so that a youngster who is at reading age can read the book on their own.
I highly recommend this book for both adults and children. It illustrates how an adopted cat can be a very special companion. It also illustrates how cats can be very special pets.
Understanding the breeding process will help you identify the quality of the puppy or dog that you wish to purchase.The following is the first part in a series of eight articles about breeding dogs. Although it applies to a dog, it also applies to cats. People do not realize that there are cat mills which are like puppy mills. Note that these articles are based on my years of experience, my opinion and that I do not intend to refer to any individual. Please read the entire eight articles to glean a full understanding of breeding.
Part One: The Bitch
First, it must be said that only the best bitches and males should be bred. The only reason to breed is to better the breed.
Often in my career I have had clients tell me that they wanted to breed their pet dog. In most cases, they have no idea what is involved. It is much more than simply introducing a male and female.
Here are some of the reasons why they feel they want to breed their dog.
To make a lot of money. Often people will pay a substantial amount of money for a puppy. They feel that if they breed their bitch, they will earn eight to ten times that money.
It will be good for the children to watch. Whelping puppies is pretty gory, and most children cannot handle what is involved. In some cases, it can traumatize a child and if the child is a girl, make her afraid to have children of her own.
If you still want a child to see this, it is better to find a breeder who will let your child get up in the middle of the night to watch the birthing of a litter.
We love our dog so much we want another like him/her. The chances of reproducing your dog are slim to nothing. Genetics is not an exact science and if breeders could control how a dog turns out there would be many more champions and exceptional dogs.
Everyone who meets my dog wants a puppy like him/her. As soon as the litter is born most people find that all those friends and acquaintances who said they wanted a puppy have excuses as to why they cannot get one now. Breeders who have dogs that are breeding quality have waiting lists for a reason. A home bred or backyard bred dog has no special qualities to warrant the cost.
We really love puppies. Many people do not realize that raising a litter of puppies is a lot of work and if done right, is very costly.
The health problem does not just affect pets, but all animals worldwide including marine animals. These diseases are noncommunicable and include such problems as cancer, obesity, diabetes, and degenerative joint disease.
Animal scientist Antonia Mataragka of the Agricultural University of Athens conducted the study. While the causes are inconclusive, Mataragka did find that genetics play a part in selectively bred animals such as dogs, cats and livestock which show higher rates of conditions such as diabetes and mitral valve disease.
Environmental influences, including poor diet, limited physical activity, and long-term stress, also shape how and when these diseases appear across species. Other examples are pigs who develop osteoarthritis, beluga whales have documented gastrointestinal cancers and farmed Atlantic salmon experience cardiomyopathy syndrome. Wildlife living in polluted estuaries contaminated with industrial chemicals such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) show liver tumor rates as high as 15-25%. More research needs to be conducted to fully understand what is happening.
Cite This Page:
Society for Risk Analysis. “Animals are developing the same chronic diseases as humans.” ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 17 November 2025. <www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251116105735.htm>.
Journal Reference: Antonia Mataragka. Beyond Infections: The Growing Crisis of Chronic Disease in Animals. Risk Analysis, 2025; DOI: 10.1111/risa.70130
A team of scientists from the University of Bari Aldo Moro (Italy), Ruhr University Bochum, Medical School Hamburg and other partners in Germany, Canada, Switzerland and Turkey conducted a study to see which side most cats sleep on and why.
They concluded that cats sleep on their left side because they can perceive their surrounding when they wake up with their left visual field. This is processed in the right hemisphere of the brain which specializes in spatial awareness. This allows the cat to quickly process information about predators. Therefore it is a survival strategy.
Journal Reference:
Sevim Isparta, Sebastian Ocklenburg, Marcello Siniscalchi, Charlotte Goursot, Catherine L. Ryan, Tracy A. Doucette, Patrick R. Reinhardt, Reghan Gosse, Özge Şebnem Çıldır, Serenella d’Ingeo, Nadja Freund, Onur Güntürkün, Yasemin Salgirli Demirbas. Lateralized sleeping positions in domestic cats. Current Biology, 2025; 35 (12): R597 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2025.04.043
Cite This Page:
Ruhr-University Bochum. “Why cats prefer sleeping on their left side—and how it might help them survive.” ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 26 June 2025. <www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/06/250626081533.htm>.
For many couples, a wedding isn’t complete without the pet who’s been there through everyday life. From quiet mornings to major milestones, furry companions are part of the story being celebrated. Including them in wedding festivities can feel meaningful rather than gimmicky when it’s done with intention. With a little planning, pets can add heart without adding stress.
Key Ideas
Choose roles that fit your pet’s temperament, not trends.
Plan logistics so comfort and safety come first.
Build in a graceful exit plan if your pet needs a break.
Carry the pet theme through details, from décor to keepsakes.
Why Pets Belong in the Story
From first apartments to long walks after work, pets witness the relationship’s quiet milestones. Inviting them into the celebration isn’t a gimmick; it’s a nod to shared life. The trick is choosing moments where they add warmth without stealing focus or feeling overwhelmed.
Roles That Feel Natural, Not Forced
Some pets love the spotlight; others prefer a cameo. A calm dog might walk down the aisle with a handler, while a shy cat could appear in portraits taken earlier in the day. Even a brief appearance—like greeting guests during cocktail hour—can feel meaningful when it aligns with your pet’s personality.
Preparing Your Pet for the Big Day
The goal is familiarity, not perfection. Walk your dog around the venue in advance. Practice short leash walks with distractions. Introduce any outfit well before the wedding so it feels routine, not restrictive. Assign a trusted friend or professional handler whose only job is your pet’s care.
Before the celebration arrives, walk through these practical steps to set everyone up for success:
Schedule a vet check to confirm vaccinations and health.
Pack a small kit with water, treats, waste bags, and a favorite toy.
Choose a quiet rest space away from music and crowds.
Confirm venue rules and any required documentation.
Plan transportation to and from the venue that suits your pet.
Styling Without Stress
Comfort always wins. Lightweight collars with florals, a simple bow tie, or a flower crown designed for pets can elevate photos without irritation. Skip anything that limits movement or hearing. If in doubt, dress up the leash instead of the pet.
Turning Wedding Memories Into Lasting Keepsakes
Including pets doesn’t have to stop when the music fades. Thank-you cards featuring your furry companion extend the celebration and add a personal note guests genuinely remember. Using an online app that lets couples design and order printed custom cards with polished templates and intuitive editing tools makes the process simple and flexible. You can personalize colors, photos, and messaging, then easily print online cards that feel thoughtful without adding post-wedding stress.
Bride with a beautiful dog on the wedding day
What Works Best by Wedding Moment
Different parts of the day call for different levels of pet participation. This overview helps you decide where your companion fits most comfortably.
These common questions help clarify what’s realistic and worthwhile.
Is it okay if our pet doesn’t stay for the whole wedding? Absolutely, and it’s often ideal. Many couples plan a meaningful appearance followed by a calm exit. This keeps the experience positive for the pet and stress-free for you.
Should we hire a professional pet handler? If your budget allows, it can be a game-changer. A handler manages walks, breaks, and cues so friends can enjoy the day. It also gives you peace of mind during key moments.
What if our venue has restrictions? Always confirm rules early. Some venues allow pets only outdoors or for photos. If restrictions are tight, consider off-site portraits or symbolic nods like signage or stationery.
How do we keep guests comfortable if they’re not animal lovers? Clear boundaries help. Assign handlers, avoid roaming pets, and ensure no one is surprised. Thoughtful planning keeps the focus on celebration, not logistics.
Are outfits really necessary for pets? Not at all. Many couples skip clothing and still achieve beautiful photos. A clean, brushed pet with a stylish leash can look just as polished.
What’s the simplest way to include a pet if logistics feel overwhelming? Photos and paper details are the easiest path. A short portrait session or pet-themed thank-you card captures inclusion without day-of stress.
Bringing It All Together
Including a furry companion can deepen the emotional texture of your wedding when it’s done thoughtfully. Focus on comfort, choose moments that suit your pet’s nature, and let simplicity guide your choices. Whether they walk the aisle or smile from a photo on your thank-you cards, their presence can quietly remind everyone what family really means.
A Blog by Susan Bulanda 