Parade Pets

I wasn’t expecting to be jealous of a Mini Dachshund’s hair this morning, but Ella has apparently decided to grow a mohawk. She’s a cream-colored, long-haired little sweetheart sitting on the sofa, looking perfectly innocent. Then she turns her head and reveals the fluffy tuft sticking up on top. Oh, that is a LOOK.

Ella’s pet parent says “the mohawk just keeps getting bigger every day,” and I’m going to need regular updates on this development. Does Ella wake up and check its progress? Does she know she’s accidentally become the tiniest rock star in the house? I have questions, and most of them involve how she can be this precious while wearing a hairstyle that says she’s about to start a band.

@ellaminidoxie

#dachshundsoftiktok #mohawk #newpuppyowner #minidachshundpuppy #winnerdogs

♬ la la la la laaa – Yas

The clip comes from @ellaminidoxie, and Ella’s little head turn is the whole show. From one angle, she’s simply an adorable floofy Dachshund. From the other, there it is: a soft little peak of hair that refuses to lie down. She doesn’t need to do a single thing with it. The mohawk is doing all the work.

Related: Shih-Tzu Serving Main Character Messy Realness Looks Like They Went Through It Last Night

I love that Ella has the sweetest face imaginable to go with her rebellious hairstyle. There’s no wild running around or sofa destruction in this clip. She’s just sitting there, quietly showing off the hairdo she grew herself, thank you very much. That makes the reveal even funnier.

Ella Has Started a Dachshund Hair Club @ellaminidoxie

#dachshundsoftiktok #newpuppyowner #minidachshundpuppy #winnerdogs

♬ Rockstar by Hannah Montana – theamandaallenshow

The comments turned into a gathering of people whose Dachshunds have little sprouts of their own. One person said, “Mine just has a little sprout, but I make sure to fluff it up every day.” Another shared that their girl is “working on hers,” complete with a photo of a tiny tuft. Ella may be the inspiration these dogs need to keep growing.

One viewer said they’d never seen “a ween with a mohawk” and now needed one. Another reported that someone took one look at Ella and said, “Guy Fieri.” I’m sorry, that comparison is going to live in my head every time I see her little hair spike.

If it really does keep getting bigger, Ella might need her own before and after photos. For now, she can sit on her sofa looking like the world’s gentlest troublemaker. I’m ready to buy tickets to her first concert.

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I was already going to love a tiny Maine Coon kitten named Thumbelina. Then I saw her little pale tortie face, all soft fluff and big eyes, and learned she’s the smallest kitten in her litter. Oh, baby. She looks like a fuzzy chickadee who wandered into the wrong nest and decided to stay.

Thumbelina has that sweet, slightly worried expression some kittens make when they’re still figuring out the world. She’s so tiny that I want to tuck her into a sweater pocket and carry her around while narrating everything we do. “This is the kitchen, Thumbelina. This is where I get snacks. You and I are going to get along GREAT.”

@mossycottagemainecoons

Mossy Cottage Thumbelina 🌱 The littlest girl in the litter, and the one who needed just a little more of me. A few extra bottles, a few extra late nights, and a whole lot of willing her to keep growing. 🥹 She’s still tiny, but she’s catching up. 🤍 #MaineCoon #MaineCoonKitten #KittenTok #TinyButMighty #CatTok

♬ ubtii i found you – .

Thumbelina’s breeder at @mossycottagemainecoons calls her “the littlest girl in the litter, and the one who needed just a little more of me.” That meant extra bottles and late nights spent willing her to keep growing. She’s still small, but the breeder says she’s catching up. I love those last three words more than I can explain.

Related: Giant Maine Coon Tries to Make a Tiny Baby Frog His Bestie

The little girl has been putting in WORK. Her breeder says Thumbelina needed extra bottles and some very late nights, and now she’s catching up with her littermates. I keep looking at her fuzzy little face and thinking about how many people are already rooting for a kitten they’ve never met.

And can we please discuss the name? Thumbelina sounds like it was waiting for this exact kitten. She’s tiny, pale, and fluffy with an expression that makes me want to tell her everything is going to be okay. I would get absolutely nothing done if she lived in my house. I’d just follow her around saying, “Look how big you’re getting!” every time she took three steps.

The Littlest Kitten Has Everyone Rooting for Her @mossycottagemainecoons

Just a pretty little girl being pretty 🤍 #MaineCoon #MaineCoonKitten #MaineCoonCats #KittenTok #CatTok

♬ original sound – Lmusic

There’s something about watching the smallest baby make progress that turns me into an emotional mess. Every bit of growing matters when you’ve heard how much care went into those first weeks. Thumbelina may eventually become a big, fluffy Maine Coon, but right now she’s a handful of pale tortie fuzz with a whole lot of people cheering her on.

My own Maine Coon, Meatball, is a large cat who takes up an unreasonable amount of space wherever he sits. Looking at Thumbelina, I’m trying to imagine him ever being this little. I can’t. She seems small enough to get lost behind one of his paws.

For now, I hope Thumbelina keeps taking her bottles, growing at her own pace and making that precious little chickadee face. She has already mastered being loved. The getting bigger part can come one tiny day at a time.

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Golden Retrievers are famous for being good-natured, happy, and easy-to-get-along-with pups, but even the sweetest dogs have certain things that immediately get a reaction from them. For some, it’s petting them in a spot they don’t love or taking them to the veterinarian’s office instead of going for a walk. Others, well, trying to find that “boiling point” is a little trickier to find. 

In this video, we meet a Golden Retriever playfully poked by his parent, who’s trying to pester him into reacting. But this pup’s charming reaction makes it clear that he’s got a lot of love to give, and even if he’s subtly bothered, nothing can bring his mood down for long. Take a look!

@river.and.banks

He likes it 🤣😭 #goldenretrieverpuppy #ragebait #puppy #goldenpuppy

♬ original sound – SPAM LIKE = BLOCK

On September 25, @river.and.banks shared a video of one of their adorable Golden Retrievers named Banks. The cute Golden Retriever is sitting in the bathroom, and his mom tries to playfully bother him, but anyone who has spent time with a Golden can tell you that this breed seems to be perpetually happy. 

So, of course, the “rage-bait” didn’t work, and instead of playfully bugging him, Banks kept that happy smile on his face the whole time. He genuinely just seemed thrilled to be involved, and it’s so funny.

Related: This Golden Retriever Refuses To Miss Mickey’s Very Important Magic Word

In the comments, hundreds of people were charmed by Banks, who wasn’t going to fall for his parents trying to poke at him. 

One person wrote, “Mine would pull it down and walk around with it on his face and then run into stuff and blame me.”

Another shared, “I had a Schnauzer who didn’t move an inch when anything was thrown on her. I remember throwing my shirt on her [before] a shower [and] came out to her still in the same position holding it on her body.” 

Someone else added, “I was waiting for a second towel [not going to lie]. I wanna see how many towels till he loses his s***.”

Other comments included, “Can’t rage-bait a Retriever, they don’t rage,” “Zero rage on that face,” “He looks like Matt Damon,” “Little guy is just made of sunshine and rainbows,” “I wish I could see the world like the dog sees the world,” “He’s like, ‘do it again,'” and “I was about to be like RUDE, but he loved it.”

One joked, “I rage-bait my dog by doing ‘body slams’ on him, and he gets so mad that he gets the instant zoomies and has to run his anger off by running in circles and attacking anyone in his way.”

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Can Dogs Tell When Humans Are Teasing Them? What Animal Behavior Experts Say

Banks is having so much fun with his family, and research suggests dogs may be surprisingly good at figuring out when humans are teasing them. In a study from the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, researchers looked at 48 pet dogs to see whether their reactions differed when a person appeared to accidentally drop a treat out of reach or deliberately withheld it. 

As Forbes notes, the study showed that dogs seemed to tell the difference between when researchers intentionally kept the treat and when they appeared to drop it by accident. When the person kept the treat, dogs were more likely to sit or lie down, but when they appeared to drop it by accident, dogs stayed closer, suggesting they were still happily expecting the treat to arrive. 

So while Banks may not understand the concept of “rage-bait,” he may very well recognize that his mom is deliberately pestering him, and he’s more than happy to play along.

If you’re ever standing in a store and asking yourself who the heck is buying Christmas decorations in September, think of me. It’s me. I am doing that, and I don’t even care. I start shopping when the Labor Day sales kick in, and I go until Black Friday. I love Christmas so much.

Recently, one cattery combined two of my favorite things: Christmas and Maine Coons. One of their cats had a precious litter of gingerbread kittens! If I wasn’t in the holiday spirit already, these kittens would push me over the edge:

@sassykoonz

When a ginger Mom has gingerbread babies #mainecoonkittens #ginger #cutekittens #gingertok

♬ original sound – crowescauldrons

Sassy Koonz Cattery always has really cute kittens, but these kittens take the cake. Mom is a ginger, too, and she gave birth to 5 ginger boys. Their coat colors even vary, just like actual gingerbread cookies do; there’s one who’s mostly white like icing with a little bit of that ginger peeking through!

Mom did a good job with these kittens! They were really tired in this video, but kittens spend a lot of time sleeping when they’re that young. It won’t last, though. Five ginger kittens will be enough to make sure this house is chaos for months to come!

Related: Brave Orange Cat Gives Birth to a Beautiful Basket of Buffalo Wings

There haven’t been any updates on the gingerbread men just yet, but they’re not even close to the only kittens in the house! They also have these adorable Calico kittens, and their little mustaches are totally winning me over:

@sassykoonz

Calico Maine Coon kittens are one of my favorites! #mainecoon #kittens #calico #sisters #luxurypets

♬ sonido original – EDITS & LYRICS

Every time I see a Maine Coon kitten, I want one even more. I keep waiting for them to get less cute, but they just never do. One day, I’ll have an army of gingerbread kittens of my own!

Choosing a Maine Coon Kitten

You can definitely find Maine Coons, both mixes and purebred, in shelters. However, a lot of people end up going through catteries; if you want to go that route, always make sure you do your research and choose an accredited, ethical option.

Nils Jacobi / Getty Images

Once you’ve chosen a cattery, picking a kitten comes down to personal preference alone. Coat color can be an important factor, but it won’t impact your kitten; only your pictures. However, you might want to consider:

• Their parents, and what their personalities are like.
• Extra toes, which a lot of Maine Coons are bred to have.
• Their individual personalities; sit with them for a while if you can, and choose the one that “speaks” to you.

Though giving birth to an army of gingerbread men is just about the cutest thing a cat could do, them being orange will not actually make them “crazier.” It only makes them cuter, as if they could be cuter than they already are!

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I adopted both of my dog when they were over a year old, so I missed out on the puppy stage. My Dachshund mix’s ears were probably bigger than her body when she was a baby, and my Pug mix was most likely even clumsier and sillier than he is now (though that’s hard to fathom). Puppies come with a plethora of unique features and personality traits that seem even sweeter when they’re tiny fur babies.

Goose the Beagle puppy has the trademark look of his breed, and also sports some spots that resemble a sweet treat.

@goosasaurusrex

Living my dream life #beaglepuppy #puppylife #beagle

♬ original sound – mark.payton.tiktok

In the TikTok from @goosasaurusrex, the precious puppy was lying on his back in his dog bed enjoying a good belly rub. The post poked fun at Goose’s easygoing lifestyle with zero responsibilities.

“No job, no bills, no rent,” the on-screen text noted, with the caption adding, “Living my dream life.”

While Goose’s daily routine was enviable, his over-the-top adorable tummy is what stole the show. The Beagle beauty’s belly was intermittently dotted with brown spots in a freestyle pattern against his pale pink skin.

Goose was obviously oblivious to the head-turning freckled feature on his body, though the spots looked like someone covered him with chocolate chips. If you didn’t zoom in close enough, you could mistake his sprinkled belly for an old-fashioned cookie or some sort of pastry painting.

Why Do Some Dogs Have Spotted Bellies?

Skin color in dogs comes from natural pigment called melanin. This determines the color of a dog’s coat, nose, eye-rim, and paw-pad color. Melanin is not always distributed evenly, meaning a dog may have pink skin in one area, dark patches in another, and tiny spots dotted along the abdomen.

The spots are completely normal areas of pigmentation and often don’t match the color of a dog’s fur. A canine can have a solid-colored coat and still boast some belly bling. For some puppies, pigmentation becomes even more noticeable as they get older.

With those rich chocolatey spots, Goose is one seriously irresistible little treat.

Related: Rescue Beagle Whose Vocal Cords Were Cut From Lab Testing Attempts His First Howl, and It’s the Best

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@goosasaurusrex

His spots are so cute 🥰 #beagle #beaglesoftiktok #puppytiktok

♬ Little Sparrow – Paul Alan Morris @goosasaurusrex

His spots are so cute 🥰 #beagle #beaglesoftiktok #puppytiktok

♬ Little Sparrow – Paul Alan Morris @goosasaurusrex

His spots are so cute 🥰 #beagle #beaglesoftiktok #puppytiktok

♬ Little Sparrow – Paul Alan Morris @goosasaurusrex

His spots are so cute 🥰 #beagle #beaglesoftiktok #puppytiktok

♬ Little Sparrow – Paul Alan Morris

If I were carrying an itty bitty Poodle puppy and saw a huge Cane Corso walking toward us, I’d probably scoop my baby up, too. That’s what happens when two women spot Dave, a big black Cane Corso, while they’re out shopping. One holds onto the tiny puppy as Dave approaches, and you can almost see her wondering how this introduction is going to go.

Dave’s dog dad assures her it’s okay, but the best part comes after she puts the puppy down. This enormous dog bends into an adorable play bow and tries to make friends at puppy level. Sir, you are roughly 900 times her size. The effort to be a little guy along with her is turning me into goo.

@bigassdavid

She picked up her tiny puppy the SECOND she saw Dave… 😳🐶 Wait for the plot twist. 😂🖤 #CaneCorso #ToyPoodle #GentleGiant #DogTok BigAssDave

♬ original sound – BigAssDave

The clip from @bigassdavid starts with a completely understandable bit of caution. The puppy looks so small beside Dave, and her dog mom doesn’t rush to put her on the floor. Once she does, though, Dave’s response is much softer than his size might lead you to expect.

Related: Huge Black Lab Needs Tiny Dachshund Brother to Rescue His Ball

“Love this gentle giant!” one viewer wrote. Another called him “just a big puppy,” while someone else gave the little dog credit for staying calm. I agree on that last point. Imagine being the size of a mouse and meeting a dog who looks like he could carry the entire pet store home.

The comments also raised a fair question about dogs meeting inside a store. One person said that, friendly or not, they wouldn’t have put their small dog down near a Cane Corso. Others loved seeing Dave’s gentle approach. Both reactions make sense to me: the moment is sweet, and the puppy’s dog mom was allowed to be cautious.

Do You Take Your Dog Shopping? @animalshaveempath

How cool is this? 🐾🐶🥰🇮🇹❤️

♬ original sound – animalshaveempathy

Some stores welcome pets. Petco, for example, says visiting animals must be properly restrained and may be asked to leave if they pose a danger to others. A store allowing dogs in doesn’t mean every pair needs to meet, especially when one of them is so tiny.

Dave’s play bow is precious, and I’m glad this little encounter gave us a glimpse of his soft side. Do you take your dog shopping, and would you have let your small puppy meet him? Let us know in the comments.

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Parade Pets aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

If you’re looking for the “purrfect” bag to wear on all your fall outings, then you should check out this great deal from Walmart. The Cupidove Black Cat Canvas Tote Bag with Zippers is now only $9 and it’s absolutely adorable.

This elegant tote bag features a print on the front of a beautiful black cat with big yellow eyes, sitting in a field of vintage flowers and leaves. It comes with an inner zipper pocket where you can keep smaller items separate from the rest of the things you’re carrying in your tote.

This bag is also machine washable, so you don’t have to worry about getting it dirty and not being able to use it again!

The bag measures 15 inches by 14 inches in size. Walmart’s description notes that it has “plenty of space for files, tablets, books, groceries” and more. It comes with two 23-inch handles so you can easily carry it over your shoulder.

Cupidove Black Cat Canvas Tote Bag for $9 at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop it!

This tote bag only has a few reviews so far, but buyers love it. Everyone’s given it either 5 or 4 stars, for an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5.

“This canvas bag is really adorable! I love the cat and flower design on it. It seems like a good quality canvas bag, and I do not anticipate it ripping easily,” one buyer writes.

Another buyer writes, “Cute tote bag. It’s well made and large enough for a few items of groceries. Has an inside zipper pocket. Lightweight.”

A fourth person says that in person, it looks just like it’s shown in the photos. They call the tote “adorable.”

This bag comes with free shipping options and free 90-day returns.

Related: Walmart’s Window Birdhouse Feeder Puts Cat TV Right Under Your Kitty’s Nose

Who says cats can’t greet you like a pup? There’s a general sense that you should consider yourself a “cat person” or “dog person” and stay in your lane. But the reality is, people can love cats and dogs—and you may even want a pet that has qualities of each. If you love felines, but enjoy some elements of canine life, it’s fair to wonder if there’s a cat breed that will greet you at the door like a dog that will be more your speed. 

The good news is, there are dog-like cat breeds known for their sweet, social, and surprisingly dog-like welcome-home routines that tend to mimic those of dogs. These cats even tend to like to play fetch and may even be trained to walk on a leash, if that appeals to you as well. Of course, that doesn’t apply to every indoor cat breed.

“Greeting you at the door can be a natural expression of their personality and attachment,” says Nita Vasudevan, DVM, an Embrace Pet Insurance veterinarian contributor. “But, individual cats vary quite a bit.” Technically, any cat can do this, regardless, of breed, if they’re social or bonded to you, she points out. 

Jo Myers, DVM, a veterinary advisor at Vetster, agrees. “Personality, early socialization, experience, routine, and the cat’s relationship with the people in the household all matter,” she says. All that said, some breeds are more prone to this kind of friendly behavior than others. So, if your want a furry family member that will welcome you home, consider one of these affectionate cat breeds that act like dogs.

Related: 6 Affectionate Cat Breeds Known for Being Gentle, Loving Companions, According to a Veterinarian

7 Dog-Like Cat Breeds That Will Greet You at the Door Ragdoll A friendly Ragdoll cat waiting for its pet parent to get home.

Getty Images Cyndi Monaghan

This breed is known for its tendency to go limp when you pick it up, but the Ragdoll is so much more than that unique breed trait. “Ragdolls tend to be affectionate cats, easygoing and people-focused,” Vasudevan notes. This dog-like cat breed has a reputation for acting more like a puppy than a cat.

“They often like to be near their humans and may come running when they hear you,” Vasudevan says. Not only are they attached to their people, Ragdolls tend to be a snuggly breed that’s a good family pet. Ragdolls are typically good with kids and even tend to get along well with other pets. Basically, there’s a lot more to consider with a Ragdoll than just a greeting party.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Affectionate, relaxed, happy
• Weight: 12-18 pounds
• Lifespan: 15+ years

Maine Coon Calico maine coon cat face closeup resting leaning on shower glass door wall step in bathroom room in house lying down sad

Getty Images ablokhin

The Maine Coon is one of the largest domestic cat breeds out there, and it’s naturally compared to dogs due to its canine-like size. But the this friendly cat breed is also prone to welcoming its humans home after a long day. “They may greet you at the door, chirp or trill and follow you around the house,” Vasudevan says. 

Main Coons also tend to be curious and into family life without smothering its humans. “Maine Coons are known for being friendly and interactive without necessarily being overly demanding,” Vasudevan says. This breed typically has an outgoing personality and can usually be leash trained. The Maine Coon has a reputation for being a total sweetie, too. This affectionate breed is known as a gentle giant in the cat world. 

Breed Stats

• Personality: Gentle, friendly, affectionate
• Weight: 12-22 pounds
• Lifespan: 12.5+ years

Sphynx Two friendly cats greeting someone.

Andrey Sayfutdinov

Like many other cats on this list, the Sphynx is usually an affectionate breed of cat that’s dialed into its humans. They can also be great dog-alternatives if you are searching for a pet. “Sphynx cats are typically very social and crave interaction and warmth,” Vasudevan says. “A door greeting can be a combination of excitement to see you and a desire for attention.”

Overall, this is a hairless cat breed that loves to spend time with people—and snuggle. (Your lap can provide plenty of warmth, after all.) These sweet felines tend to be curious and outgoing, so you can expect your Sphynx to try to get involved in whatever is happening around your home. In addition to greeting you at the door, your Sphynx is likely to be your mini shadow. This little pet detective wants to know what you’re up to and, preferably, wants to be included. 

Breed Stats

• Personality: Loyal, affectionate
• Weight: 6-12 pounds
• Lifespan: 7–15 years

Related: These 7 Affectionate Cat Breeds Love Human Company and Are Anything But Loners, According to Experts

Abyssinian An orange cat looking for its cat mom.

Getty Images Manuel ROMARIS

A cat breed that loves to forms connections, the Abyssinian wants to know what you’re up to. So of course you can expect them to say hello to you when you get home. “Abyssinians are curious, active, and highly engaged,” Vasudevan says. “They’re often interested in what their humans are doing and may meet you at the door because they want to investigate where you’ve been and what you’re up to.”

This cat likes to stay busy, so don’t expect it to lurk around your doorway for too long. After greeting you, your Abyssinian will jump around to try to work out some of that energy. This breed usually busy, making it a good fit for households with plenty of interactive options. So, be prepared to dive into plenty of play time once you’re home. 

Breed Stats

• Personality: Devoted, athletic, alert
• Weight: 6-12 pounds
• Lifespan: 14-17 years

Siamese A sweet Siamese cat looking up at its human.

Getty Images Elizaveta Starkova

Despite what you may see in cartoons and movies, the Siamese is a friendly cat breed. Myers describes this breed as “social, vocal, and highly interested in what their people are doing.” It’s pretty common, then, for the Siamese to do double-duty as a door greeter when its humans come home. 

Be aware that your Siamese isn’t just there to check out the action: This loving feline wants to play. “Siamese cats are often very vocal and keen on human company, so meeting you at the door may be their way of asking for attention as soon as you’re free,” says Aimee Warner, DVM, resident veterinarian at Waggel. “You might get a series of meows before you’ve even put your bag down.” If you want a cat that will be your constant companion from the moment you arrive home, you’ve found it. 

Breed Stats

• Personality: Playful, social
• Weight: 5-12 pounds
• Lifespan: 10-20 years

American Bobtail An American Bobtail cat searching for its pet parent.

Getty Images yhelfman

Another cat known for its dog-like qualities is the American Bobtail. This cat is confident and forms close attachments to its owners, making it a good fit for people who can’t decide between a cat and a dog. Naturally, it enjoys meeting its pet parents at the door when they get home.

“American Bobtails are generally described as friendly, confident and affectionate,” Myers says. “Those qualities could make an individual cat more inclined to investigate when someone comes home or seek out interaction.” This breeds tends to form close bonds with family members and will treat you like a part of their inner circle. “Coming to meet you could be an invitation to spend some time together, particularly if you usually play with them when you get home,” Warner says. “Their greeting may be fairly quiet: A chirp or a brief approach before they follow you into the house.”

Breed Stats

• Personality: Confident, friendly, intelligent
• Weight: 7-16 pounds
• Lifespan: 11–15 years

American Curl An affectionate cat who likes being around people.

Getty Images rukawajung

The American Curl is easy to spot thanks to its curled ears. But this cat also has a human-loving personality that makes it likely to meet you at the front door each day. “American Curls are often described as curious and people-oriented, so coming to investigate when you walk through the door would fit that general personality,” Myers says. 

This social cat breed is a little nosy and wants to be involved in whatever you’re doing, Warner says. “Coming home gives them plenty to investigate, from bags being put down to shoes being taken off,” she says. “For an outgoing Curl, meeting you at the door may be a mix of affection and curiosity about what’s going on.” So, be prepared to dive right into play time with your curious cat when you get home. 

Breed Stats

• Personality: Lovable, affectionate, playful
• Weight: 5-10 pounds
• Lifespan: 10-20 years

Sources: 

• Nita Vasudevan, DVM, an Embrace Pet Insurance veterinarian contributor.
• Aimee Warner, DVM, resident veterinarian at Waggel. 
• Jo Myers, DVM, a veterinary advisor at Vetster
• Sphynx. The International Cat Association
• Maine Coon. The International Cat Association
• Ragdoll. The International Cat Association
• Siamese. The International Cat Association
• Abyssinian. The International Cat Association
• American Curl. The International Cat Association
• American Bobtail. The International Cat Association

Whether you have mice or other pests around your home, rodent traps may be something you’re considering to help deal with the issue. However, if you live in a home with cats or dogs, there are some special considerations you need to keep in mind before setting up rodent traps. In fact, some of the most popular forms of pest control can actually be super toxic and dangerous to pets, and it’s important that you keep your fur baby away from them to avoid potentially lethal consequences.

To learn more about popular rodent traps that are toxic for both cats and dogs, we spoke with Dr. Lori Ross, DVM, and veterinarian and the medical director of Emergency Veterinary Care Centers. Below, Dr. Ross shares the popular rodent trap that can be fatal to pets, the most common signs your pet has ingested rodenticide, when you should go to the emergency vet, and how to keep your pet safe from pest control methods if you need to use them around your home.

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Armed with this information, you can keep your pets healthy (and also handle the rodent situation at the same time). Read on to learn everything you need to know about pet-safe rodent control below.

The Popular Trap That Can Be Fatal to Pets

Mai Thawee / Getty Images

Rodenticides are pesticides that are, as the name suggests, designed to kill rodents. They’re a popular form of pest control, but they can be lethal to pets if they eat these chemicals.

“Rodenticides can pose a serious risk to pets if they are accidentally ingested,” Dr. Ross says. “Depending on the product, poisoning can cause bleeding, neurologic symptoms, kidney problems or other potentially life-threatening complications. Pets can also potentially be exposed by finding and eating poisoned rodents. If rodenticide is used in a home with pets, it should only be used with extreme caution and strictly according to the product label, with pets prevented from accessing the bait.”

Signs Your Pet Has Ingested Rodenticide (When to Go to the ER)

Viktoriya Skorikova / Getty Images

When it comes to the signs a pet has ingested rodenticide, they may vary widely based on a number of factors.

“Signs can vary significantly depending on the type of rodenticide and the amount ingested,” Dr. Ross says. “Possible symptoms include vomiting, weakness, lethargy, pale gums, bruising or bleeding, difficulty breathing, tremors, seizures, difficulty walking or changes in behavior. Importantly, some rodenticides may not cause obvious symptoms immediately, so pet parents should not wait for symptoms before seeking veterinary guidance if they know or suspect their pet has ingested bait.”

Time is of the essence here, so acting as quickly as possible is fundamental to keeping your pet safe if you think they’ve ingested rodenticide.

100% Pet-Safe Alternatives to Keep Your Home Pest-Free

Ana Rocio Garcia Franco / Getty Images

When it comes to pet-safe alternatives, it’s more about making sure your pet doesn’t have access to toxic rodent traps in the first place.

“The safest approach is to prevent pets from having access to any rodent-control product or trap,” Dr. Ross says. “Pet parents can focus first on prevention measures such as sealing potential entry points, removing accessible food sources and keeping food stored in secure containers. If traps or other pest-control products are necessary, they should be placed somewhere completely inaccessible to pets and used according to the manufacturer’s directions. For homes with pets, consulting a professional pest-control company about pet-conscious options can also be helpful.”

Keeping this information in mind is important for every pet parent. This way, you don’t need to make any emergency room trips and you can keep your fur baby safe and sound on the couch where they belong.

Source:

• Dr. Lori Ross, DVM, is the medical director of Emergency Veterinary Care Centers.

Related: Do Fleas and Ticks Really Die Off in the Fall? A Veterinarian Explains

I dare you to find a dog who loves fall more than Stella the Yellow Lab. But it’s not the comfortable, crisp air or the ubiquitous scent of pumpkin spice goodies she enjoys most. What Stella really, really can’t get enough of is leaves, piles of them. Whether she’s jumping into them or burying herself in them, a mountain of crunchy fall leaves is Stella’s happy place.

In this particular video, the amusing pup is lounging – luxuriating, even – on her back, partially covered by a big mound of freshly raked leaves. There’s nowhere Stella would rather be, and her obvious happiness is infectious, reminding everyone of their childhoods spent doing pretty much the same thing every fall.

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“Just missing some cucumbers over the eyes,” one viewer jokes.

Others amuse themselves with more seasonally inspired puns about Stella:

“I have ‘fall-en,’ and I can’t get up.”

“Wow!! An unbe-leaf-able spawday.”

And our favorite: “I want to be leafed alone!”

Related: Exhausted Maine Coon Dad Is Done ‘Being a Present Father’ and Just Wants a Nap

Why Do Dogs Love Leaf Piles So Much?

Because to a dog, a pile of leaves is more than fun; it’s information overload.

Every leaf in there has spent weeks on the ground collecting the scent of soil, plants, and whatever animals wandered past. Diving in releases it all at once, which is roughly the canine equivalent of opening every window in the house.

There’s a texture payoff too — the crunch and rustle satisfy in the same way a good chew toy does — plus a hunting element, since piles might hide small creatures worth investigating. Add in the jumping, digging, and darting, and you’ve got real physical exercise wrapped around genuine mental work.

Then there’s the part that makes Stella’s devotion make sense. Leaf piles are seasonal. They exist for a few weeks a year, then they’re gone, so the novelty never gets a chance to wear off. Whatever she felt about them last October has been waiting, fully intact, all year. When it comes to autumn, I can certainly relate!

A few safety practices worth noting before your pup takes the plunge:

Check the pile for sharp sticks and stones, and keep flea and tick prevention up to date, since fallen leaves make excellent tick habitat. It’s also worth looking for mushrooms—the ASPCA notes that while most are harmless, the small fraction that aren’t can cause life-threatening problems, and damp leaf litter is exactly where they turn up this time of year.

Related: Gorgeous Brown Ragdoll Cat Looks Like a Cinnamon Spice Dream

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Most Halloween outfits last until Oct. 31, but this dog sweater from Target could potentially last through the winter.

For pet parents looking for a great costume doubling as practical wear during the fall months, this is your chance. The turtleneck provides neck coverage, and the pullover design stays in place without any straps or Velcro that will irritate your dog.

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Hyde and Eek! Boutique Halloween Spiderweb Dog and Cat Sweater, $10 at Target

Target

Shop It!

The Hyde and Eek! Boutique Halloween Spiderweb Dog Sweater is black with a white spiderweb across the back, giving your dog a spooky look. However, it’s concealing a secret feature. Flip it inside out, and you get a second look: a white sweater with a black spiderweb design.

It’s made of 100 percent acrylic, keeping it lightweight and easy to care for. Target sells sizes XS–XL, great for pets from under 10 pounds up to 100 pounds. And though it’s listed as a “dog sweater,” your cat should fit comfortably in the extra-small.

Related: Family Tries to Get Their Alaskan Malamute Into the Halloween Spirit and It Goes Hilariously Sideways

Why Pet Parents Love Target’s Spiderweb Sweater

Shoppers seem to love the Hyde and Eek! Boutique Halloween Spiderweb Dog Sweater, with an average rating of 4.1 stars on Target.com. Many reviewers note that Target’s sizing chart is relatively accurate.

“Large fit both my 50lb and 60lb Goldendoodles (long bodies, barrel chests). Love the turtleneck style collar on this sweater. Helps prevent it from becoming stretched out like other sweaters,” one parent shared on Target.com

Another wrote their dogs “looked so good” that they didn’t want to take them off, and many others praised the quality for the price. Even one cat owner chimed in to say “cute spooky sweater.”

One complaint among reviewers was the sizing in the smaller range. Several found the small size tighter than expected, while the medium size was a bit large, so make sure to measure your pet’s neck, chest and back length against the provided sizing chart.

The design might be seasonal, but the sweater is functional and serves as a cold-weather layer well past Oct. 31. Besides, being priced at $10 means the sweater leaves room in the budget for some treats!

Related: Target’s Cherries Dog Toy Already Has 7,000+ Fans and a Secret That Makes Dogs Go Wild

One orange Persian kitten is already a bundle of adorableness, but what if you multiply that by six?

Then you have a “bed full of cuteness,” which is exactly what’s happening in this sweet new viral cat video featuring a litter of orange Persian kittens.

People cannot get enough of these cute little newbies!

@persiancatkitten

My beautiful kittens 🥹🥰❤️ #kitten #persiancat #catmomlife #catvideos #kittensoftiktok

♬ The Cuppycake Song – Amy Castle

As you can imagine, the comments section was on fire for these beautiful orange Persian babies.

“I want the whole lil basket… nothin but cuteness!” one person wrote.

“There is a whole bushel of them!” someone else said.

“This is my room in heaven,” another viewer commented.

“OMG, a basket full of fluff. How wonderful,” someone else wrote.

Related: Teeny-Tiny Persian Kitten Is the Most Precious Little Bundle of Dryer Lint

What Makes Orange Persian Cats So Special?

Though orange Persian cats seem rare, they have actually been around for hundreds of years, according to Catster.

Originating in Persia (now Iran), drawings showed these kitties with red or orange coloring.

Persian cats were then brought to Europe in the 1800s and became a favorite of Queen Victoria.

Also, one of the most famous cats in pop culture happens to be an orange Persian cat.

This is, of course, Garfield! Everyone’s favorite sarcastic lasagna-obsessed cat.

In addition to their ancient lineage, being a favorite of the royals and the inspiration for a beloved comic strip, orange Persian cats are also very special for a number of other reasons.

First of all, all Orange Cats, no matter the breed, are predominantly male (about 80%).

The orange Persian kitty, and all Persians, also have a lot in common with Bulldogs and Pugs.

They are brachycephalic, meaning they have a smushed-in snout and a rounder, thicker skull.

In addition to being absolutely adorable, especially as kittens, they are known for their adaptable and friendly personalities.

There is a reason they have been so popular for literally hundreds of years!

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I’ve seen plenty of beautiful Golden Retrievers, but Charlie may be the first one to get a butterfly crown delivered directly to his forehead. A monarch butterfly lands right on his face, and for a moment he looks like the star of a Disney movie who’s about to start singing with the woodland animals.

The funny part is that Charlie and his tiny visitor almost match. His warm golden fur and the butterfly’s orange wings look so pretty together that I’m wondering whether the monarch chose him on purpose. The video’s caption says, “Don’t make any sudden moves,” and YES, Charlie, please listen. I need this moment to last at least another 30 seconds.

@thegoldenlifeofcharlie_

Don’t make any sudden moves! Charlie understands the assignment #goldenretriever #sweetboy #patient #butterfly #monarch

♬ Natural – Florian Christl

The clip comes from @thegoldenlifeofcharlie_, and Charlie is wonderfully gentle while the butterfly rests on his face. He has that soft Golden Retriever expression that makes the whole thing even sweeter. I would have spent the entire visit whispering, “Nobody breathe,” while trying to take approximately 400 photos.

Related: Monarch Butterfly Lands on German Shepherd’s Face and the Moment Is Pure Magic

The monarch looks like an elaborate little bow sitting between Charlie’s eyes. If I put an accessory that close to my dog Kingston’s face, he’d probably demand to know what I thought I was doing. Charlie, meanwhile, has been chosen by a butterfly and seems willing to let the rest of us admire the result.

Charlie’s Butterfly Crown Has Everyone Melting @thegoldenlifeofcharlie_

Charlie loves his butterfly friends #monarch #butterfly #friends #bestfriends #goldenretriever

♬ La Promenade – Alexander Motovilov

“This is such a Disney moment,” one viewer wrote, and I can’t improve on that description. Another called him a “100% good boy.” Someone else said their own dogs would be “flipping out” if a butterfly tried to land on them, which makes Charlie’s calm little face even more precious.

One commenter shared a picture from the video with the butterfly’s wings spread across Charlie’s forehead and wrote, “Soooo precious.” It really is the kind of image you want to save and look at whenever the day gets annoying. A sweet dog, a butterfly and an accidental matching color scheme? That’s a lot of joy in one tiny clip.

I’m not saying Charlie should expect all butterflies to treat him like royalty from now on, but I wouldn’t blame him if he did. He wore his crown beautifully.

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Your dog may already think they’re the main character. Luckily, Aldi’s playful taco costume gives them the outfit to prove it.

With the Heart to Tail Halloween Pet Costume from Aldi, you can take Taco Tuesday to a whole new level. It transforms your pup into a walking, barking taco, complete with a silly, food-inspired look that makes for great Halloween photos.

Heart to Tail Halloween Pet Costume, Taco, $6.99 at Aldi

Aldi

At only $6.99, this seasonal pet find will turn a regular October walk into an entertaining one. It goes on sale Sept. 30, so be sure to get it while supplies last. Made from 100 percent polyester and available in sizes XS–L, the costume is lightweight, so most dogs will not overheat during a short walk. The costume secures with a Velcro closure at the neck and includes a collar clip access hole. Wash it in the machine once you are done with trick-or-treating.

Food costumes have an unfair advantage when it comes to pets. Put your dog in a taco costume and the walk around the neighborhood feels like an event. Add a few fallen leaves and a Halloween bucket, and your dog will have no idea why everyone is laughing at them.

The Heart to Tail Halloween Pet Costume leans into the playful side of Halloween. Instead of trying to make your pet look frightening, try to get a few laughs instead.

Related: Target’s $15 Highland Cow Pet Costume Turns Dogs and Cats Into the Fluffiest Little Farm Animals

Made for Pet Parents Who Love Silly Costumes

Even if the photo session lasts for four seconds, this taco costume will be worth it. At less than 10 bucks, there is no downside to grabbing it.

If you have the Halloween decorations, candy, and costumes sorted, a new taco outfit will be the perfect addition to the festivities. With no zipper, the costume is fun and easy for your dog to wear.

As with most Aldi Finds items, the costume is available while supplies last, so don’t expect a mid-season restock.

The taco costume is not the only option. Aldi and Heart to Tail have several other costumes, including a banana and a vampire. Though if you want a fun food item for your dog’s costume, the $6.99 taco is a hard-to-beat deal.

Related: Costco’s Halloween Aisle Has a Quiet New Arrival—and Dog Lovers Are Already Obsessing

Afghan Hounds are a seriously underrated breed. A lot of people don’t want to deal with all of the fur that comes with them, though, which is completely understandable. These dogs probably have enough fur to coat the whole house!

One dog mom is braving that storm, and it’s a good thing she is. Her Afghan Hound is stunning! When she tried to climb the cat tree recently, she looked like someone had turned the fluffiest area rug vertical:

@ashtheafghanhound

queen of the castle queen of the castle 🐄 👑 #afghanhound #persiancat

♬ sonido original – Alex – Alex

Ash the Afghan Hound looks like what I imagine a Ragdoll cat would look like as a dog. She even has the darker nose and paws, just like most “color-pointed” Ragdolls. She looks a little bit like her Persian cat sister, who’s perched up on her cat tree, making sure Ash can’t lay a paw on her.

The vertical carpet… I mean, the dog is trying her best! When she stands up, her fur flows straight back like a waterfall! It’s stunning. She’s stunning, and most importantly, she’s a little bit of a brat. She wants that cat tree all for herself!

Related: Little Dachshund Proudly ‘Walking’ Afghan Hound Sibling Is a Sight to Behold

Ash, luckily, gets treated like a princess. Her mom will meet her wherever she is, and she’ll always bring treats! Sometimes, they even cuddle up in sun patches together while Ash gets fed all of the treats she can possibly hold:

@ashtheafghanhound

I love you too 🌽 #afghanhound

♬ original sound – ashtheafghanhound

This is the sweetest thing ever. Ash is clearly very well cared for, and she appreciates her mom a lot! However, as soon as she goes to walk away, you can bet Ash is right back to begging for more treats!

Do Afghan Hounds Get Along With Cats?

Ash lives with a Persian cat, and the two of them have a love-hate relationship. While Ash is fine sometimes, other times, she’s like a huge, fluffy giraffe, and the kitty has to scale the cat tree just to (mostly) get away!

Maksym Hilievoi / Getty Images

Afghan Hounds were bred to chase. They’re sight hounds, meaning they’re great at identifying a target and then running after it. Unfortunately, that means that their first instincts with cats is often to chase them. They’re not generally considered good with cats, but a few things could help:

• Introduce the Afghan Hound to cats when they’re as young as possible.
• Make sure you keep up with their training.
• Don’t let them be alone together.
• Make sure the Afghan Hound is able to get their energy out in other ways.

If you want your Afghan Hound to get along with a cat, know that it’ll take time, and it won’t always be perfect. There will be moments when your vertical carpet chases their kitty friend straight up a cat tree! Just ask this adorable Persian cat!

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I thought German Shepherd zoomies were chaotic enough on their own. Add an emu with equally strong feelings about running, and suddenly the backyard has become the greatest game of tag I’ve ever seen. The fluffy dog chases the bird, the bird turns around and chases the dog, and neither one appears ready to call it a day.

In the video, they race around the yard while Joan Jett’s “Bad Reputation” plays in the background, which is an EXCELLENT choice for two friends behaving like somebody just told them to be quiet. The German Shepherd’s fur is flying, the emu’s legs are going a mile a minute, and I keep trying to figure out who’s “it.” I don’t think they know, either.

@erin.summerlin

POV: your dog finally finds someone who matches her energy 💀 feat: Veda & Ranger #germanshepherd #emu #fivesranch

♬ Bad Reputation – Joan Jett

The clip comes from @erin.summerlin, and I love that this isn’t a one-way chase. They take turns going after each other, then change direction and do it all again. If you told me a German Shepherd’s favorite backyard buddy was an emu, I’d have questions. After seeing these two together, my main question is whether they ever get tired.

Related: Australian Shepherd Meets Emu Chicks and Immediately Tries To Teach Them How To Be Dogs

The music makes the whole thing even funnier. They look like they’re starring in a very low-budget action movie where the only plot is RUN. I’m especially fond of the moments when the dog seems to start another round and the emu is right there, ready to play along.

This Backyard Friendship Has Everyone Laughing @erin.summerlin

Apparently, the first game of tag settled absolutely nothing. 💨 #emus #germanshepherd #fivesranch

♬ Runaround Sue – Dion & The Belmonts

“This video and Joan Jett made my day!” one viewer wrote. Another called them “unlikely best buds, living their best life.” That’s exactly the feeling. Neither animal seems concerned that their bestie has a wildly different number of feathers.

My favorite comment came from someone on their third German Shepherd who complained that none of their dogs “came with an emu.” Fair point. I’d also like to know where the matching emu was supposed to be included. Another viewer said they were already two cats past their rental agreement, so an emu was probably out of the question.

I’m content to enjoy this friendship through a screen. They can keep the giant yard and their very fast game of tag. I’ll be over here replaying the part where the emu decides it’s the dog’s turn to run.

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Cats still have the stereotype of being overly independent and aloof. Yet many cats are highly social and thrive on affection. Felines often make wonderful family members and frequently prefer to be around loved ones rather than on their own.

Ethel the senior cat was recently rescued by the NAWS Humane Society and clearly craves companionship over “me time.”

@franflight

Our sweet senior girl Ethel really is the cutest little girl around 😭 Although we don’t know much about Ethel’s past, we know her future is bright. We are still waiting for Ethel’s bloodwork to come back, but currently she is in good health besides her skin healing from her flea infestation. We would love to see Ethel get out of the shelter quickly, as seniors quickly shut down often. If you have any questions please feel free to message me and if you are serious about letting Ethel become a part of your family submit a cat adoption application at nawsus.org under the tab, adoption center. 🥹🤍 I love you guys so much 🫂 #cat #adoptdontshop #catsoftiktok #catadoption #adopt

♬ original sound – 𝓡𝓸𝓷 𝓦𝓮𝓪𝓼𝓵𝓮𝔂 – Alexander Hamilton

The TikTok from @franflight told Ethel’s story and described her poor condition when she first arrived at the shelter.

“Ethel is our newest senior cat at the shelter,” the on-screen text shared as the pretty kitty warmly received some affection from a NAWS staff member. “She was completely infested with fleas which is why her skin was so irritated.”

According to her intake card, the 15-year-old feline fur baby was found outside and had to fend for herself. Ethel is currently getting treatment for her skin condition and drinking in every ounce of affection she receives.

“Although her skin is uncomfortable, the main thing she continually seeks out is us,” the story continued. “She hates being left alone.”

Ethel Needs a True Forever Home

Ethel’s skin is healing, and she appears to be in overall good health. The shelter staff members are determined to find Ethel a loving home to spend the rest of her days.

“Our sweet senior girl Ethel really is the cutest little girl around,” the caption gushed. “Although we don’t know much about Ethel’s past, we know her future is bright… We would love to see Ethel get out of the shelter quickly, as seniors quickly shut down often.”

Related: Stray Cat Sweetly Chooses Their Forever Home and It’s the Sweetest Story

The post concluded with a plea for someone to open their heart and home to this special senior girl.

“Ethel doesn’t deserve to live out the last leg of her life at a shelter,” the on-screen text noted. “She deserves to retire comfortably with a family who will love her just as much as she will love them. We love you, Ethel. Your home is coming soon.”

For more information on Ethel, visit the NAWS Humane Society.

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When people picture Golden Retrievers, it’s not uncommon to picture a perfect life. White picket fence, children, a pie sitting on a windowsill waiting for a bear to come and put it in a picnic basket… It’s hard to imagine that anything bad could happen to these perfect pups.

Bad things do happen to them, though. Recently, one lucky Golden Retriever made it out of a bad situation and into a loving home. They’re supporting her in every way they possibly can, and most importantly, they gave her her first-ever toy! Her cries say it all:

@user4917196685174

Shy girl in her first couple days with us, after being surrendered to a rescue shelter days earlier. Not a peep out of her for the first day and a half. Then, on her second morning, her true feelings started to emerge. Think she’s happy to be in her forever home? We sure are. #goldenretrievers #goldenretrieversoftiktok #homewardboundgoldenretrieverrescue #rescuedogsoftiktok #bevielou

♬ original sound – Barry S.

Bevie Lou is one of the cutest dog names I’ve ever heard in my life. She’s so sweet, and according to her new dad, she’s very shy. This was her second day in their home, and she’s been very reserved, but the toy brought out the best in her!

You can hear her sweet little cries, and even if you couldn’t, those wiggles say it all. She was apparently surrendered just days before, and it was a perfect match! The family had just lost their Golden Retriever a few weeks before they found her. It was meant to be, and no one can ever convince me it wasn’t!

Related: Golden Retriever Battles Adorable Schneagle Puppy — and Egos Are Bruised

Since getting her first toy (her Mama Llama), Bevie will not put it down. She carries it with her everywhere, and she’s currently devising a plan of attack. She wants to tear that thing up! She’s really trying to bring it down:

@user4917196685174

We rescued Bevie. Who’s going to rescue the llama??? 😍😂🫢 #goldenretrievers #goldenretrieversoftiktok #rescuedogsoftiktok #bevielou

♬ Destroy My Toy – Puppy Songs

Their caption is the funniest part: “We rescued Bevie. Who’s going to rescue the llama?” Nobody. Bevie will soon get to experience the joy of ripping up her first toy and then throwing a fit until she gets a new one. It’s a rite of passage!

How to Choose a Rescue Dog’s First Toy

Bevie and her llama were certainly love at first sight. That was her first-ever toy, and it combined being fun and snuggly. It was exactly what she needed, but not every dog will like that kind of toy. Dogs can be picky.

Anita Kot / Getty Images

When you’re getting ready to bring home a rescue dog, you need to manage your expectations, and that includes playtime. Many shelters will include their preferred types of toys in the listings, but not always. If you’re not sure, start with:

• Soft toys.
• Toys that crinkle rather than squeak.
• Chew toys.
• Squeaky toys with one small squeaker.

A lot of rescue dogs will get a little freaked out by loud toys, so it’s best to avoid them at first and introduce them slowly as they start to settle down. Maybe try this llama: Bevie Lou is a girl in love!

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I have three dogs, and finding toys that all three of them enjoy can be really hit or miss. One that always hits, however, is that oinking pig toy that snorts when you squeeze it. They eat them up (and literally, they love to chew up the ends)! I know they’re not the only ones, either; these toys are a bestseller everywhere!

They’re so iconic because they’re so realistic. When you squeeze them, they legitimately oink like actual pigs, and when you press (or bite) down really hard, they squeal! One pig mom couldn’t help but compare the popular toy to the real deal, and it’s uncanny:

@pepfarms

One of these is a squeaky toy… allegedly 😭😂🐷#farmlife #pet #piglet #pig #fypシ゚viral

♬ original sound – Felixthepig

Pep Farms is home to many animals, including this precious piglet, whose side-by-side oink-off with their fake sibling totally took the internet by storm. Anyone who’s ever had a dog has probably had one of these pig toys, and we all know they’re spot on, but this is too good. If you blindfolded me, I might not have been able to tell the difference!

The piglet seems to understand the assignment completely. Every squeeze, he oinks! The only difference is that his ends a little more abruptly than the toy’s does. Don’t worry, though; it’s just a light squeeze to get a sound out of him. He’s not hurt in any way!

Related: Amazing ‘Piggy Pool Day’ Looks Like an Oinking Good Time

The piglet’s name is Felix, and he lives in the house part-time. He spends his days outside on the farm, where he’s best friends with all of the donkeys. Then he goes inside and bamboozles his parents into giving him whatever he wants, and it’s easily the cutest thing:

@pepfarms

He really had something to say 😑#farmlife #pet #piglet #pig #fypシ゚viral

♬ original sound – Felixthepig

House pigs are not for everyone, but Felix fits right in with his family. They have plenty of space, time, and most importantly, food, to care for him!

Should You Get a House Pig?

Felix is so adorable that he makes me want a house pig, a little bit, but I knew better. Do you see how big he is right now? He’s a piglet. He’s going to get much, much bigger than this, and so will your house pig, even if they’re sold to you as a “tiny” or “teacup” pig.

Rawlstock / Getty Images

In almost all cases, getting a house pig is a terrible idea. While pigs are friendly, smart, and even trainable, most people cannot properly care for a pig. For starters, keeping them in your house is almost always a bad idea. They eat anything and everything! Pigs need:

• Lots of outdoor space.
• Enrichment.
• Friends.

Some people have house pigs who have their own bedrooms, and they really seem to make it work. While it can work for some, the financial support and time required for having a house pig are not achievable for most people. Felix is lucky!

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Lowe’s has a great deal right now on an elegant bird feeder that truly capitalizes on some current home decor trends. The Birds Choice Modern Farmhouse Platform Bird Feeder is just $27 at Lowe’s, and has a lot of great reviews.

Don’t let the name fool you. This feeder isn’t in a farmhouse shape. Instead, it’s designed in the trendy modern farmhouse style that’s been so popular lately. It’s a rustic, sleek aesthetic that many modern homes are utilizing.

This feeder combines “rustic elegance with high functionality.” It’s a simple platform feeder that uses a rope hanger. This gives you a lot of freedom to set it up wherever you want, whether hanging from a sturdy tree branch or from a hook in your patio.

It’s a simple platform design that’s easy to fill and deep enough for birds to utilize with ease. It measures 9.9 inches wide, 2.13 inches high, and 10.5 inches long.

One happy buyer writes: “Beautiful and well made little feeder. The birds took to it right away. It was exactly what I was looking for. Very happy with this purchase!”

Birds Choice Modern Farmhouse Platform Bird Feeder for $27 at Lowe’s

Courtesy of Lowe's

Shop it!

This has a 4.8 out of 5 star rating overall on Lowe’s website. Buyers love the simple, effective design that’s easy to hang and refill. They say it comes with a mesh bottom that allows for drainage that helps keep the seed dry, and the open platform attracts a wide variety of birds.

Here are a few of the happy reviews being left:

• “Much less seed loss and plenty of room for our feathered friends to share a banquet together.”
• “This is a nice feeder that should last for years and stay looking nice for a long time.”
• This beautiful sleek design compliments the garden… Young mockingbirds and cardinal(s) were the first to explore. They seemed delighted that access was so easy.”

Lowe’s offers convenient shipping options, including $5 standard shipping.

Related: Lowe’s Vintage Lantern Bird Feeder Brings Understated Elegance to Any Yard