Explore research-based articles on dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, small pets, and more—covering behavior, welfare, enrichment, training, and veterinary science from Pet Science Daily.
Pet Science Daily turns peer-reviewed veterinary and animal-behavior research into clear, practical articles for pet owners. We cover dogs and cats alongside rabbits, birds, hamsters, guinea pigs, ferrets, reptiles, and other companion animals—each article grounded in published studies on behavior, welfare, enrichment, training, nutrition, and health.
A 347-dog study created a 22-feature oral microbiome index that detects early gum disease in dogs before it worsens, improving canine dental care.
A 36-dog study found a routine bloodwork score predicts survival in dogs with meningoencephalitis, helping vets identify high-risk cases at diagnosis.
New lab research finds that EZH2 drives canine T-cell lymphoma cell survival, pointing to a potential new treatment target for this aggressive dog
New research shows CT scans can reliably track dog shoulder muscle loss, with reliability scores up to 0.996, offering vets an objective rehab
A study of 38 healthy tortoises established new blood-gas reference values, helping vets use rapid point-of-care tests to detect hidden illness
Parrot pain is hard to spot, but a study logging 14,752 behaviors found daily routine changes signal arthritis. Learn which signs to watch for at
Rabbit semen preservation improved with naloxone and calcium in a 20-donor study. Learn what this means for rabbit breeding and conservation programs.
New research on 46 rabbits finds IgA antibodies shift after RHDV vaccination or infection, potentially complementing standard immunity tests for this
New research on 12 female guinea pigs shows behavior and physiology shift across reproductive cycle stages—what every guinea pig owner should know.
A survey of 373 vets found dog arthritis treatment varies widely by training. Learn the key questions to ask your vet for a complete arthritis care
A study of 36 dogs found intraoperative cone-beam CT detected hidden tumor-feeding vessels missed by standard CT in 5 dogs, also reducing radiation
A pilot study of 20 dogs found that a stem cell injection after TPLO surgery improved lameness and pain scores faster than a placebo—what it means
A study of 281 pet samples found antibiotic-resistant staph in 72.5% of dog isolates—higher than cats. Learn why culture testing matters for your
A study of 62 dogs found that urine sodium cannot reliably detect early dog mitral valve disease—vets need more than one test to guide treatment.
Dog pneumothorax ultrasound accuracy hinges on probe placement, a blinded cadaver study of 8 dogs found. Where the probe goes can make or break
Dog sedation significantly changes emergency ultrasound readings in a new study of 8 Beagles, meaning vets must account for sedation when reading
In a 10-dog study, a simple blood test tracking tumor DNA helped detect canine lymphoma relapse early—DNA disappeared in remission and reappeared at
A clinical trial in 21 arthritic dogs found oral piclidenoson improved mobility and pain over 90 days, offering a potential non-NSAID alternative for
Lab tests show essential oils can fight dog ear infection bacteria. But scientists warn these in vitro results don't confirm they're safe to use at
A new PCR test for pet parrot virus detection can improve diagnosis of Psittacine adenovirus 1, giving vets a better tool to catch bird illness
FIP kidney damage in cats differs by disease form, new research shows. Learn how this deadly virus harms the kidneys and what it means for your cat's
Pets can carry drug-resistant staph (MRSA). New surveillance research highlights key hygiene steps and responsible antibiotic use to protect your
New study compares two common dog antibiotic combinations head-to-head, giving vets better data to choose the right dose and fight antibiotic
Canine distemper found in free-roaming dogs near Nepal's Bardiya National Park shows why dog vaccination protects pets and wild animals alike.
French heartworm spread to one dog's brain, lungs, kidneys, and heart in a fatal case. Learn the warning signs every dog owner should know.
A pilot study of 16 dogs with cruciate ligament tears found non-surgical neuromodulation led to full recovery in all small dogs. Here's what that
A study of 21 cats found a synthetic feline pheromone modestly reduced vet-visit stress scores with no side effects. Here's what it means for your
A case series of 3 cats with severe mouth inflammation achieved full remission with partial-tooth extraction only — here's what it means for your
A new study found that fungal protein in dog food at 4–8% maintained digestibility and improved gut bacteria balance in dogs, with no drop in
A new cat kibble safety survey in Italy screened chicken-based dry cat foods for multiple contaminants, highlighting the importance of quality
In a 100-dog randomized trial, the herbal supplement Vitex matched the drug cabergoline for treating false pregnancy in dogs — with fewer side
A lab study of 30 canine eye-infection samples found dog eye drops with steroids can shift how well some antibiotics work, but ciprofloxacin stayed
A planned trial of 120 dogs will test if a structured 6-month brushing and coaching plan beats standard advice for preventing canine dental disease.
A planned trial of 160 overweight dogs will test if smart collar activity tracking and coaching beats standard weight-loss counseling for dogs.
A trial of 38 cats with kidney disease found high-dose vitamin E raised blood levels but did not improve survival or clinical signs of CKD.
A new study finds cats carrying the fAIM gene variant reach higher chronic kidney disease stages faster and show quicker creatinine rises than other
Low-cost broth test detects antibiotic-resistant UTIs in pets with 89% accuracy and 100% specificity, giving vets a faster, affordable diagnostic
Pre-surgery imaging for dog and cat GI problems matched actual surgical findings 88% of the time in a study of 95 pets, with X-rays outperforming
A controlled trial found one oral dose of lotilaner cut cat ear mites by 99.6% in 28 days, with no side effects. Here's what it means for your cat.
Study of 874,447 pets shows dog dental disease risk rises with age, but flat-faced breeds face a much steeper climb. Learn what this means for your
A 28-day prebiotic-postbiotic supplement significantly improved stool quality and reduced gas and digestive problems in both dogs and cats, a trial
A study of 144 dogs and cats found chest X-rays are more accurate than ultrasound for diagnosing breathing emergencies. Here's what pet owners should
Minimally invasive pelvic surgery helped 32 cats recover faster with fewer complications than traditional open surgery. Here's what it means for your
A 6-metabolite blood panel outperformed CRP for detecting dog inflammation in 382 dogs, catching low-grade and chronic disease earlier. Here's what
A new PCR study of 93 shelter cats found tick-borne pathogen DNA more often than expected, suggesting cats play a bigger role in tick disease spread.
A CT scan study of 205 dogs found visceral fat — the fat around organs — is linked to age and disease, and standard body scoring may miss this hidden
A survey of 1,110 animals found indoor pets had far lower Toxoplasma gondii exposure than community cats — here's what it means for your pet's
A 35-dog study found routine bloodwork tracks heartworm disease severity in dogs, with liver and kidney markers most affected. Here's what that means
A study of 874,447 pets found dog dental disease risk rises with age, but flat-faced breeds face much steeper increases. Is your breed at higher risk?
A clinical trial of 57 dogs and 57 cats found a prebiotic-postbiotic supplement improved stool quality, reduced flatulence, and eased digestive
A study of 192 cats found that indoor life and strong owner attachment both raise feline obesity risk — experts say prevention should start before
A study of 103 cats found male cats had significantly higher hair cortisol levels — a long-term stress marker — than females. Age and breed made no
A study of 144 dogs and cats found chest X-rays were more accurate than ultrasound in breathing emergencies, while ultrasound added critical speed.
A study of 18 dogs found rye and triticale matched wheat in digestibility, stool quality, and blood results—supporting alternative grains in dog
A survey of 858 senior dogs found that lifelong sports and shared owner activities were linked to lower rates of cognitive decline in old age.
A clinical trial in 32 cats found that minimally invasive pelvic fracture repair led to faster recovery and fewer complications than open surgery.
A six-metabolite blood panel outperformed CRP at detecting inflammation in 382 dogs, including hard-to-catch low-grade chronic disease states.
A small randomized trial found that spirulina supplementation improved serum protein and lipid markers in working dogs, suggesting metabolic and
A PCR study of 93 shelter cats found high rates of Anaplasma and Hepatozoon DNA, suggesting cats play a bigger role in tick-borne disease cycles than
A CT study of 205 dogs found that where fat is stored—not just how much—affects metabolic health risk, and body condition scoring alone can miss this
A survey of 1,110 animals found indoor pets had significantly lower Toxoplasma gondii exposure than free-roaming community cats, highlighting the
Routine bloodwork reflects heartworm disease severity in dogs, with kidney and liver markers most affected, a 35-dog retrospective cohort study finds.
Many pet owners overlook the importance of oral hygiene, leading to serious health issues. Poor dental care can cause periodontal disease, which
Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cell therapy shows promise in alleviating knee osteoarthritis symptoms and modifying disease progression.
Probiotic supplementation benefits adult cat microbiome; age, disease, and body condition impact vitamin B6, review and observational studies report.
Relationship-centered veterinary care enhances pet-owner-vet relationships, improving care outcomes.
Parrots made 147 video calls in 3 months by ringing a bell, with all 18 pets using the system and many learning new skills from video buddies.
Probiotic therapy lowers skin severity scores by ~35% in allergic dogs with atopic dermatitis, 16-week trial of 22 dogs and 11 controls finds.
The "larynx hold" stops loud purring in 89% of cats during cardiac exams, with equal success by students and specialists in a 582-cat trial.
House-soiling and destructive puppy behaviors fall by 6-9 months, finds survey of 1,516 dogs aged 16 weeks to 12 months. Lead-pulling needs training.
Early-neutered male dogs face higher frailty and mortality risk in old age, per cohort study of 87 elderly males with varied lifetime gonadal
Algal oil achieves similar blood DHA as fish oil in cats. 15-week diet trial of 26 cats finds both oils effective; algal oil is well tolerated.
Over 94% rated their flat-faced dog's health as "good" or "very good" despite frequent health problems
One in three shelter dogs in Northern Italy carry filarial worms; 15.7% have heartworm, 6.9% D. repens, finds 2024 survey of 510 shelter intakes.
A study tested lotilaner, the active ingredient in Credelio, against ear mites. Learn what it found and when pets still need veterinary care.
CBD-combination chews reduce cortisol spike but not anxiety behaviors in stressed dogs, finds placebo-controlled trial of 54 pets using 2mg/kg and
One-third of 105 toy-obsessed dogs show addictive-like behaviors, especially Terriers and Shepherds, finds behavioral cohort study using owner
Preoperative imaging matches surgery in 88% of 95 pets with GI symptoms. X-rays show 100% sensitivity, outperforming ultrasound at 82%.
Resting heart and respiratory rates in 703 dogs vary by age, time of day, and season, AI-collar cohort study finds; puppies have highest rates.
Sarcomeric ACTC1, ACTN2, MYH7, TNNT2 and CSRP3 variants link to feline HCM and RCM, targeted sequencing of two cat cohorts reveals. Enables early
Exon-3 variant allele found in 62% of cats; homozygous carriers show higher CKD stages and faster creatinine rise, prospective genetic study finds.
Imaging and surgical diagnoses agreed in 84% of cases
Over 20 preclinical studies confirm AAV gene therapy restores retinal function in dogs and cats with single-gene defects, guiding human protocols.
Whole-genome sequencing of multiple dog breeds links PDGFRA, CSF1, LCORL, and ITGA11 variants to orofacial clefts and stature, advancing canine
Cats with short AR alleles (≤18 repeats) showed higher purring scores
Bacterial UTIs found in 37% of dogs and 26% of cats; E. coli most common. Multi-drug resistance is frequent, study of 308 pets with urinary disorders.
Only 3 studies with 26-28 animals show no clear benefit for short-course antibiotics in companion-animal UTIs; evidence remains limited and
Bedside broth turbidity test achieved 89.47% sensitivity and 100% specificity for detecting ampicillin resistance
H5N1 killed 2 of 4 cats; 2 survived with prompt oseltamivir and developed strong antibodies. Case series shows rapid spread and zoonotic risk in one
SLAMF1 splice mutation found in 71% of French Bulldogs, 40% of Boxers; first genetic risk for canine atopic dermatitis in GWAS of 28,000+ dogs.
Toxic amyloid-beta buildup at synapses in 25 senior cats mirrors human Alzheimer's, post-mortem study finds. Aging cats offer realistic research
Pet ownership raises life satisfaction as much as a $90,000 salary increase, matching marriage, per large British longitudinal study of pet
Cat owners donate $780 vs $700 for dog owners and support more causes, finds 10-year analysis of 63M U.S. donor records and $70B in donations.
Straight 1 cm tip removal more visible at distance than V-notch
PCR identified dermatophytes within 1–3 days vs 10–14 day culture
Supportive non-enforcement model improved cooperation
Sustained TNR achieved zero population growth
Dogs reclaimed far more frequently than cats
BSL-targeted breeds had lower live-release rates
New research shows neurologic fip resolved with 10 mg/kg daily gs-441524 for 12 weeks
New research shows severe tail-chasing resolved with combined medication and behavior therapy
New research shows reintroducing limited public kennel viewing increased dog adoptions
Canine brucellosis spread to all 3 puppies in one litter, even with no travel history. Learn the warning signs, zoonotic risks, and when to call your
New research shows short-term urgent foster model achieved 74% reunification rate
New research shows first documented avian influenza h7n2 outbreak in shelter cats
New research shows puppies, small breeds, non-brachycephalic muzzles adopted faster
New research shows behavior issues #1 pet-related return cause
New research shows higher empathy linked to higher 'dog parent guilt'
New research shows cbd (4 mg/kg daily) reduced fear responses to simulated thunderstorms
New research shows brief outings increased adoption likelihood 5-fold
New research shows autoligation safe and effective in small dogs
New research shows tnr programs markedly increased feline live release rates
New research shows 50% lower chronic stress levels with enrichment
New research shows high owner satisfaction despite known health issues
New research shows 100% specificity (no false positives)
New research shows gabapentin (100mg, 2 hours prior) significantly improved participation
New research shows multi-step qol assessment tool developed and pilot tested
New research shows stark differences in emotional burden between street dog vs. pet euthanasia
New research shows high fip remission rates with simplified 'spectrum of care' approach
New research shows no clear advantage of prolonged (10–21 day) courses
See which dog toys are safest, which to avoid to prevent choking and injury, and how to pick durable toys matched to your dog's size and chew style.
New research shows 93% of owners agree ferrets experience boredom
New research shows ~73% of samples contaminated with aspergillus
A complete guide to getting rid of fleas and ticks in your home and yard, with cleaning, pet treatment, and outdoor steps that break the cycle.
New research shows distinct gut bacterial composition in anxious/aggressive dogs
Discover the diseases fleas and ticks can spread to dogs, cats, and small pets, their warning signs, and why year-round prevention matters.
New research shows emotional/social uplift ranked top benefit
New research shows approx. 80% sensitivity detecting parkinson’s samples
Compare flea and tick collars, topical drops, and chewable tablets by effectiveness, safety, and cost to choose the best protection for your pet.
Compare natural and conventional flea and tick prevention to see what actually works, what's safe, and how to choose the right approach for your pet.
New research shows two-part rating scale developed (inattention + hyperactivity/impulsivity)
New research shows gabapentin reduced fear responses enabling faster protocol progression
Learn how to safely remove a tick from your dog or cat step by step, which common mistakes to avoid, and when to call your veterinarian.
Protect your cat from fleas and ticks safely with vet-recommended preventives, application tips, and advice for multi-pet households.
New research shows magnesium supplement lowered serum phosphorus
Keep your dog protected from fleas and ticks all year with topical, oral, and environmental prevention methods and an easy seasonal routine.
New research shows sled dogs showed transient morning activity dip post shift
New research shows cats sniff unknown human odors longer than owner’s
Learn to recognize the early signs of anxiety in dogs—pacing, whining, hiding, and more—plus common triggers and when to seek help.
Try five beginner-friendly nosework scent games that use everyday household items to ease your dog's anxiety and build confidence at home.
New research shows mealworm diet caused minor immune cell shifts (cd4↓, cd8↑)
New research shows 23% of tested dogs lacked dal antigen
Learn how to use mat training to teach your dog to settle calmly with simple, reward-based steps, troubleshooting tips, and safety guidance.
Compare calming tools for dogs—from wraps and pheromones to supplements and music—and learn which options are backed by evidence and worth trying.
New research shows most cats chew plants without preceding illness
New research shows high-dose vitamin e raised blood levels but did not improve survival or clinical signs
Follow an at-home plan to ease separation anxiety in dogs, with daily routines, gradual departures, and a safe space that builds independence.
A step-by-step guide to crate training an anxious dog with gradual, positive conditioning so the crate becomes a safe, calming retreat.
New research shows magnesium-enriched renal diet stabilized/decreased calcium vs. rising calcium in controls
Build a soothing 20-minute daily routine that helps your dog relax, using gentle massage, quiet time, and simple games you can repeat at home.
New research shows 85.7% interested in video-based telemedicine for vet consults
New research shows systemic fluoroquinolones associated with ~3× higher odds of ccl rupture
New research shows 58.4% believe pets deserve human-level treatment options; ~51.5% want human-level diagnostics
New research shows lizards most common; many owners unsure about habitat size and enrichment
New research shows pea-based diet reduced stroke volume/output and increased nt-probnp vs. grain diet
New research shows ~84.7% overall survival/remission after 84-day therapy
New research shows cnn achieved ~86% per-slice accuracy and ~99% per-scan diagnostic accuracy
New research shows high-morbidity breeds carried ~187 homozygous deleterious variants vs. ~87 in low-morbidity breeds
Cats show body size awareness: they hesitate at low openings but attempt narrow, tall gaps. Practical tips for safer home setups.
New research shows dogs distinguish human emotions, approaching happy faces with high tail wags while avoiding negative expressions. Learn how your
New research shows unvaccinated dogs face 8x higher parvovirus risk. Learn why vaccination and controlled environment are essential for puppy health.
Hong Kong study reveals feral cats have 15.4% FIV rate vs 3.1% in pets. Learn why indoor living protects cats and when to test.
Global meta-analysis finds outdoor cats prey on 2,084 species including 347 threatened—highlighting need for indoor management and conservation
Study links tropical rainy season to rabbit 'snuffles' surge and high multidrug antibiotic resistance, urging climate-aware prevention and
Study finds pet owners use telemedicine for emergency guidance when in-person vets aren't available, providing reassurance and triage support.
New research shows cats on a 'partial' weight reduction plan (aiming to lose only part of their excess weight) lost weight more efficiently than cats
New research shows a novel combination of a senolytic and nad+ precursor supplement improved cognitive function in elderly dogs
New research shows many cats play 'fetch' with objects on their own initiative - in 94.4% of cases, cats began fetching without any training
New research shows frequent dog-related problems (e.g. aggressive or fearful behavior, poor dog health) correlated with poorer owner mental health
New research shows dogs sniff out human stress – and it dampens their mood
New research shows dogs diagnosed with adverse food reactions (food allergies) were far more likely to have been given oil supplements
New research shows 1 in 7 pet rabbits suffers from dental disease annually - about 15.4% of pet rabbits in vet care had at least one diagnosed dental
New research shows certain breeds face markedly higher risk of insulinoma, a rare pancreatic cancer
New research shows parrots can be surprisingly altruistic - all four species routinely gave food to their group-mates at no benefit to themselves
New research shows dogs on home-cooked diets had higher odds of gastrointestinal, kidney, and liver diseases compared to dogs on commercial kibble
New research shows regular video telehealth check-ins helped cat owners better manage feline arthritis at home
New research shows most surveyed guinea pigs lived in spacious, enriched housing with proper diet
Scientific research shows rosemary supplements can dramatically reduce litterbox smell by improving cats' gut health. Learn how this natural solution
A study suggests large dogs may process prednisolone differently. Learn what this could mean for steroid dosing, side effects, and vet follow-up.
Research shows most pet owners aren't involved in antibiotic decisions for their pets. Learn why this matters for your pet's health and antibiotic
New research shows dogs can maintain optimal health on plant-based diets for a full year without adverse effects on blood work or clinical health.
Large-scale research shows environmental enrichment and positive reinforcement are far more effective than punishment for managing cat scratching
Research shows strong correlation between owner BMI and dog weight, revealing how human lifestyle choices directly impact pet health and obesity
New research reveals punishment-based dog training causes higher stress and pessimistic behavior compared to positive reinforcement methods.
New research proves rabbits need to eat cecotrophs for proper digestion and growth. Learn why preventing this behavior harms rabbit health.
New research reveals how gum disease in cats increases oxidative stress and impacts whole-body health. Learn prevention strategies.
Study tracks shelter dogs for 6 months post-adoption, revealing predictable behavioral phases. Learn how to support your rescue dog's adjustment.
Major study of 2,536 dogs shows plant-based diets linked to better health outcomes. Learn about safe vegan dog food implementation.
Study shows COVID lockdown puppies developed more behavioral problems. Learn how to help pandemic puppies overcome socialization deficits.
Research reveals neutered male dogs show increased anxiety, aggression, and behavioral problems. Learn about spay/neuter decision factors.
Research shows pets over 40% overweight face major weight loss challenges. Learn about preventing and managing severe pet obesity.
Research shows dog behavioral issues increase owner depression and anxiety. Learn how pet problems affect human wellbeing and coping strategies.
Major clinical trial proves CBD oil safety in dogs over 90 days. Learn about proper dosing and when to consider CBD for your pet.
Research shows audiobooks calm anxious dogs more effectively than classical music. Learn how to use audio enrichment for stressed pets.
New research shows hutch-confined rabbits develop stress and behavioral problems despite exercise periods. Learn proper rabbit housing requirements.
Scientific study reveals how early puppy behaviors predict adult dog personality. Learn what your puppy's traits mean for their future temperament.
A study found platelet-rich plasma therapy helped diabetic dog wounds heal faster than standard care. Learn what PRP may mean for veterinary wound
Large study shows childhood pet ownership cuts asthma risk in half. Learn how dogs and cats benefit children's immune system development.
Parrot experts reveal the most critical welfare concerns facing pet birds, from social isolation to housing problems. Essential reading for bird
Research reveals how COVID-19 pet adoption surge strained veterinary services, affecting access to care for all pet owners.
Major study finds widespread heavy metal contamination in dry pet foods. Learn how to protect your pets with safer feeding strategies.
New research reveals alarming parasite infection rates in stray animals, emphasizing the importance of preventive care for all pets.
Learn to recognize signs of guinea pig happiness including popcorning behavior. New research shows most owners provide excellent care.
Major study shows exercise balls and small cages harm hamster welfare. Learn stress-free alternatives and proper hamster care practices.
Major study reveals guinea pigs' most common health problems are preventable. Learn nail trimming, skin care, and eye protection strategies.
New research shows foraging enrichment can reduce destructive feather-plucking in parrots by meeting their natural behavioral needs. Learn effective
Research shows ferrets have dramatically different gut microbiomes than cats despite both being carnivores. Learn what this means for ferret care.
Study shows dog owners invest more in veterinary care and insurance than cat owners. Learn how to close the care gap for better feline welfare.
Study of 1,369 cats shows those on vegan diets had better health outcomes. Learn about nutritionally complete plant-based cat food options.
Major survey reveals nearly half of cats naturally play fetch, with certain breeds and indoor cats most likely to engage in this dog-like behavior.
Major study reveals bearded dragons suffer from obesity and preventable health issues. Learn proper UVB lighting, diet, and parasite prevention.
New research reveals potential joint complications from bedinvetmab (Librela) in dogs. Learn about safety findings and what pet owners should know.
Scientific study shows eco-friendly microbial protein can safely replace conventional protein in dog food without health risks. Learn about
Research reveals pets can carry Hepatitis E virus. Learn about transmission risks, hygiene practices, and what this means for pet owners.
Scientific study reveals how structured daily exercise significantly reduces anxiety in dogs. Learn evidence-based strategies for managing canine
Massive study shows regular veterinary checkups beat premium diets and exercise for dog health. Learn why preventive care is #1 priority.
A study comparing cats and dogs found dogs followed human pointing more reliably. Here's what the research means for pet communication at home.
New research shows 28% of pet rabbits suffer ear problems, with lop-eared breeds at 2.5x higher risk. Learn prevention tips from veterinary experts.
Learn research-informed enrichment, mat training, crate support, and calming routines that may help anxious dogs feel safer at home.