Amy Shojai's Blog

How To Leave Your Cat Alone At Home

Every year, we take trips to visit family over the holidays. Our cats are not the happiest travelers, so what's a loving pet parent to do? Is it safe to leave your cat alone at home? That's a topic I've meant to cover for some time, and now guest blog writer Maya Kinsley provides you with lots of great information to consider.

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Practical Solutions for Pets Problems & Publishing

Doggy DNA Misconceptions & Nature vs Nurture

Doggy DNA Misconceptions About Nature vs Nurture

Dog DNA tests today are popular because it influences both looks and behavior. Some dog breeds are known for specific tendencies. But socialization and training, and even mom-dog's nurturing influence, also impact dogs.

Some dogs have to deal with a “ruff” reputation based entirely on dog dna and what breed they are – or just look like. Pit Bulls for instance seem to get lots of bad press for dog-on-dog aggression, but we also call them the "Nanny Dog" because they're so darn good with kids. Other muscular dogs, big dogs like Rottweilers, Dobermans, German Shepherds, can get called out as aggressive, dangerous or problematic based entirely on their looks, before they ever show signs of a snarl. Of course, ALL dogs have teeth that can do damage, so understanding dog communication keeps you (and your kids) safe...

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Practical Solutions for Pets Problems & Publishing

What to Do About Symptoms of Cat Separation Anxiety

Yes, cat separation anxiety affects many felines. When school restarts, and the kids go back to class, your cats (and your dogs) may suffer from separation anxiety. The signs of distress are very different, though. I encourage you to read on to learn about tips for helping your furry family members adjust.

More recently, with more folks working from home, the cats have finally settled into a new routine. But just about the time Kitty gets used to your new schedule, the world changes again if you go back to the office. That may make them more prone to developing separation behaviors when you go back to work or kids return to school and leave them alone.

We very often hear about doggy angst during a beloved human's absence, but what about cats? Yep, it's exactly the same—only different. Here's how.

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Practical Solutions for Pets Problems & Publishing

Why Does My Dog Paw My Arm

I've recently had a couple of requests for some insight into a very common dog behavior--one my own Shadow-Pup indulges (see picture above). That is, why does my dog paw my arm? Here are two requests...and then we'll get into the reasons behind the behavior.

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Practical Solutions for Pets Problems & Publishing

Lordosis in Cats: What does elevator butt mean

For cat lovers, one of the most common feline poses can be puzzling. We know that cats communicate not only with meows and purrs, but also scent and body position. A comical posture of happy, healthy cats, something I call “elevator butt,” actually communicates different information.

The pose looks similar to the canine play-bow, and in some circumstances, has a similar meaning. The cat lowers her front end toward the ground, while elevating her nether regions and tail. Kitty looks sort of like a race car revving her engines...

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Practical Solutions for Pets Problems & Publishing

Sick Pets Won’t Eat? What to Do About Anorexia

Ever wonder why cats won't eat, or why your dog snubs the bowl? All pets lose their appetite once in a while. It's normal if pets won't eat for a meal or two.

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Practical Solutions for Pets Problems & Publishing

Tapeworm Trouble? Video for How to Deal with Parasite Problems

Dogs can contract tapeworm from ingesting fleas during self grooming, or eating a dead animal. Here's what you need to know to protect your cats and dogs from tapeworms.

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Practical Solutions for Pets Problems & Publishing

Liver Disease In Cats: Know The Signs

Liver disease is any condition which impairs that organ's normal function. The liver is the body's metabolic headquarters. It serves a dual role both as a kind of factory, and as a filter. That makes the liver the first line of defense--and at risk from damage--when filtering out toxins and more. Here's what you need to know.

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Practical Solutions for Pets Problems & Publishing

Dog Ticks: All About Ehrlichiosis

This disease has been reported worldwide wherever these ticks are found. Most cases in the United States occur in dogs living in the Texas Gulf coast regions and other southern states. All dogs are susceptible, but those with greater exposure to ticks. Outdoor dogs, working dogs and hunting dogs are at highest risk. Here's what you need to know.

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Practical Solutions for Pets Problems & Publishing

Stressed Cats Overgrooming? Your Guide to Cat Hair Loss

Tabby doesn’t deal with office politics and gets to sleep 16 hours a day, but cats still suffer from feline stress. In fact, upset feelings can leave them biting their nails and pulling their hair. Literally...

AMY SHOJAI'S Bling, Bitches & Blood - Practical Solutions for Pets Problems & Publishing