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Looking for an inexpensive toy that will keep your cat entertained for hours? Then don't sleep on this great Walmart deal. The SmartyKat Skitter Critters Plush Catnip Filled Mice are only $5 for a 10 pack! That's an amazing deal, no matter how you look at it.

These lightweight, plush mice are 50% filled with potent catnip to entice your kitty to carry them around, bat at them, and play. The catnip is a special blend that's pesticide-free and designed to make playtime fun.

These mice are designed with durable tails, a plushy lightweight feel, and measure 1 inch wide and tall by 2 inches long (from nose to tail.) They're "perfectly sized for swatting, batting, and hiding games."

More than 2,800 people have rated these little mice a perfect 5 out of 5 stars on Walmart's website!

One buyer writes: "My kitten loves these mice so much. We have them all over the house. She loves me to throw them so she can fetch them over and over... Perfect size for her."

The manufacturer recommends gently squeezing the mouse before giving it to your cat, so you can release the active catnip ingredients and make it even more enticing!

Courtesy of Walmart

These mice are also made to be environmentally friendly. The manufacturer writes: "The soft plush mice are responsibly made with fiberfill spun from 100% recycled plastic, so you can feel good about playtime."

With more than 3,200 reviews, these mice have a 4.7 out of 5 star rating on Walmart's website. Buyers love their compact size that's easy for kitties to carry, affordable price, and the way they engage their cats to play.

Check out some of the happy reviews below:

• "My kitties love these mice! They fling them in the air, tote them in their little mouths and swat them under doors."
• "My cat has snubbed other toys, but she loves these! She loves to play catch and fetch with me, and plays with them by herself for quite some time."
• "One of the best toys ever! My cats love them! My house is full of this mice, they are in every corner."

Don't sleep on the SmartyKat Skitter Critters Value Pack. You'll get 10 plush, catnip-filled mice for only $5. And your cat will get hours of entertainment and fun that will keep them mentally engaged and sharp.

Walmart offers free 90-day returns.

Related: Amazon Is Selling 'Beautiful' Cat Mom T-Shirts That Can Still Arrive Before Mother's Day

As pet parents, the act of repurposing something of your own for your pet is all too familiar. Between socks that become chew toys, storage bins that double as plush graveyards, and special blankets that protect your favorite furniture from dirt tracked in the house, the lengths we'll go to for our pets' comfort are truly endless.

That said, anytime a new purchase can serve multiple purposes, including our furry little friends, you know you're making a solid investment. Which is exactly why Costco's latest arrival is a must-have for pet parents who refuse to sacrifice style when shopping for something practical that can easily be repurposed for their pets: the Banana Republic Raffia Tote.

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Currently selling for just $19.99 and available in two gorgeous colors, this stylish tote makes the perfect pet go-bag, with a spacious design crafted from handwoven natural raffia, so no two bags are exactly alike.

"Excuse me, Costco," @costconewdeals captioned a post. "$19.99 for these beautiful Raffia Banana Republic bags!! These are perfect for Summer!!"

As we welcome the warmer months, this Costco drop couldn't come at a better time. And with beach days, park hangs, family visits and hikes beginning to fill our calendars, it's nice to know the bulk retailer has all of our needs in mind, pets included.

With the Banana Republic Raffia Tote, you don't just get an easy, affordable way to upgrade your seasonal fits; you get a spacious, one-of-a-kind tote that truly comes in handy for all your daily needs. So if bringing your dog or cat along for the ride is a regular part of your weekly routine, this $20 find serves as the perfect vessel for carrying all their daily essentials.

Related: Target's 'Cute' $40 Side Table Doubles as a Chic Cat Bed

Costco

Sporting a roomy design constructed from handwoven natural raffia, each bag features a magnetic top clasp closure, inner zip pockets, a fully lined interior and a supportive, round, flat bottom. Perfect for loading up everything from snacks and beverages to extra sweaters, blankets, sunscreen and emergency supplies alike, it's even got extra space for your pup's favorite toy, a bag of treats and travel water bowls to boot.

"Sooo cute I want them both," one fan raved in response to @costconewdeals' post. 

"This is such a good beach bag," another added, while a third said what everyone else was thinking: "They're gorgeous!"

At $22.99, snagging this bag in-store now will score you an easy $3 discount on both black and tan. Keep in mind, however, that no two bags look exactly alike, giving each one a slightly more unique, lived-in feel from the start.

That said, you'll want to protect it at all costs by avoiding washing, bleaching, ironing, tumble drying or dry cleaning. With a 100 percent paper shell and 100 percent cotton lining, it's designed to embrace a relaxed, worn-in look that only gets better with time.

Stop by your local Costco and snag your favorite color while they're still in stock. While you're at it, you can also take a look at Costco's pet-friendly sectional sofa and this orbit-ready cat bed.

Related: Hobby Lobby's $17 Solar-Powered Hummingbird Feeder Is a 'Beautiful' Backyard Upgrade

If we could bottle up and sell this precious dog's unique amount of patience, well, we'd all be millionaires. In the video, we see the most adorable pair of siblings, two miniature dachshund chocolate pups, Gunner and Greta. While they're both lying down on what appears to be a comfortable blanket, nobody is having a relaxing time, and that's probably Greta's fault. 

The younger puppy is doing everything she can to test her older brother's patience. From playfully biting his nose to scratching his face, Greta is determined to get a reaction, as younger siblings often are. While she's trying her best, Gunner is avoiding confrontation at all costs. When she bites his nose, he merely averts his gaze, accepting his fate.

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https://www.youtube.com/shorts/b3SWWRnIpRg

If you're an older sibling, you can probably relate to Gunner. Sometimes it's just easier to tolerate your younger sibling's antics rather than confront them, right? Plus, in Gunner's case, even if he's annoyed, his little sister is absolutely precious, so that makes things a little bit better. How could he ever stay mad at cute Greta? Impossible!

Gunner and Greta are internet personalities. Their YouTube account, @gunnerandgreta, has over 700,000 followers, and there's no shortage of videos of little Greta annoying her older brother. 

Puppies often don't mean any harm when they playfully bite other dogs or even their humans, because it's through biting that they explore, learn, and discover the world around them. Much like human babies, who explore objects by immediately putting them in their mouths, puppies also learn by doing the same thing—and biting said objects. 

This means that biting is very natural for puppies, which is probably why Gunner wasn't annoyed with Greta. He knows she doesn't mean any harm and that she's just being playful. Biting during play, especially with other dogs, is also important for puppies to learn bite inhibition, which means learning to control the force of their bite so they don't hurt other dogs or humans. 

If Greta were to bite Gunner especially hard, he would let her know, and she'd learn his limits and apply what she'd learned to their next play session. 

If you have a puppy and want to teach them about bite inhibition, make sure to yelp when they bite you a little too hard during playtime. They'll understand your limits, too. Or if you want to avoid biting altogether, simply offer them a chew toy instead. 

Related: This Bernese Mountain Dog's Everything Shower Routine Is More Elaborate Than Yours

A beautiful but woeful Persian cat has become a TikTok favorite by offering a very vocal opinion during an unwanted bath. Wet, sudsy, and clearly unimpressed, the fluffy feline lets out a stream of almost musical complaints that its humans are calling “speaking in cursive.”

Mom and dad gave me a bath! 😾#catsoftiktok #cattok #cat #catlover #bath

You can hear them snickering behind the camera at the Persian's pathetic display, and my reaction is the same. With over 650K likes, viewers also seem to agree with many referring to the feline as somewhere between a singer and a ghost.

"Why is he meowing in vibrato?" asks one.

"You need to contact Spirit Halloween and send them that meow LOL," suggests another.

But the winning comment by far is the one that names the performance "Phantom of the Opurra."

What is it about water that makes cats so anxious?

Related: Kind Hotel Worker Spots Ducklings in Trouble—His Simple Idea Makes All the Difference

Despite the stereotype, not all cats actually hate water. Some are perfectly happy splashing in sinks, batting at faucets, or even playing in their water bowls. As California veterinary behaviorist Wailani Sung puts it, “Cats are all individuals. Some cats like water. Some cats don’t.”

That said, many cats do have understandable reasons for being suspicious of bath time. Unlike dogs, most house cats aren’t regularly exposed to water, since they naturally groom themselves without needing baths. On top of that, wet fur can feel uncomfortable and cold, and getting the sensitive whisker-like hairs on their bodies wet may interfere with how they experience their surroundings.

There’s also the fact that cats generally prefer being in control of a situation. According to a veterinary behaviorist at the University of Pennsylvania, Carlo Siracusa, “Cats in general are averse to new stimuli that they feel they cannot control.” So between the slippery water, unfamiliar handling, and loss of control, it’s not exactly shocking that some cats react a little (ahem) dramatically to bath time.

Of course, others take the complete opposite approach. “Some cats just love water,” Sung explains. “They sit at the sink, and they meow at the owners until they turn on the faucet.”

I think it's safe to say that the extremely vocal cat in the video firmly falls into the “absolutely not” category.

Related: Golden Retriever Is Going Viral for Living the 'Pura Vida' Life—and the Video Is Pure Escapism

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Some dogs spend their entire lives waiting for an extraordinary moment that never comes. Moses had his moment on an ordinary Tuesday morning—and he didn't hesitate.

The six-year-old German Shepherd was out for his daily walk with his beloved mom near Prescott, Arizona. Everything seemed normal. Nothing felt amiss. Then, a bobcat appeared out of nowhere like an apparition.

Moses’ mom told reporters that she’d originally mistook the animal for a coyote. "This cat came at me and jumped me," she said. She tried repeatedly to push it away but it came right back.

A dog protected his owner when they were both attacked by a rabid bobcat. Both Moses and his owner are receiving treatment. #newstok #localnews #dog #bobcat #rabies

The bobcat clawed at her arm and then, it turned its bobcat in the wild versus a domesticated family dog? Thankfully, Moses isn't just any family dog.

"I kept yelling at him to run," his mom said, her voice still shaky days later. 

"Go, go, go, I kept saying. I wanted him far away from that thing."

But Moses had other plans. By the time his mom made it back to the driveway, the bobcat was dead. Moses had killed it—broke its neck right there and then.

Nobody messes with Moses’ mama.

Image via Shutterstock/ dabertolez_tubero

"He's the hero of the day," she said simply. 

Then she added what German Shepherd people already know: "He did what German Shepherds do."

The Arizona Game and Fish Department confirmed that the bobcat carried rabies. Officials also warned the community about three similar attacks in the previous two days, raising concerns about rabies infected animals in the area.

Moses is current on all his shots, including rabies, which likely saved his life. He'll need to spend the next six weeks quarantined at home while both he and his mom complete their treatments.

Here's what makes Moses's reaction so amazing yet also exactly expected: German Shepherds were literally designed for exactly this kind of extraordinary moment.

Centuries ago, German Shepherds started out as working dogs that kept flocks safe from predators. According to Scott's K9, a facility specializing in protection dog training, those early herding jobs required dogs who could think fast, spot danger before it arrived, and take decisive action when threats appeared.

That's the exact reason why police departments and military units across the world choose German Shepherds over almost every other breed. These dogs possess an unusual combination of smarts, physical power, and unshakeable devotion to their people.

Related: This Orange Cat Sees a Catio for the First Time and Immediately Has Questions

What really sets them apart is the way their mind works. A German Shepherd can track multiple things happening at once—watching for danger while keeping tabs on their family, assessing whether someone's friendly or dangerous, switching from gentle playmate to fierce guardian in just seconds, as needed.

And strength? German Shepherds are strong. They can move from a casual walk to full sprint almost instantly. When they need to stop a threat, they do it decisively.

Here's the most important part: German Shepherds bond with their human families the same way they used to bond with their flocks. You become their herd. Protecting you becomes their constant mission. It's not something they even think about—it just is who they are.

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Moses saw danger. He then eliminated the danger. That's the entire story in his mind.

His mom is alive because he understood his assignment without ever being told. That's not training. That's breeding. That's instinct refined over generations.

Three other families in that area dealt with rabid bobcat encounters that same week. Moses's mom came home safe because she had 80 pounds of German Shepherd who views her as family worth dying for.

Good boy doesn't even begin to cover it.

Alfred the lamb had one goal: get on the rock. The cat sitting on top of it had one goal: make sure that never happened.

In a recent YouTube clip, a cat claims the top of a rock as if it were a royal seat, calmly watching as his animal friends accept his "ruling."

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The dog, sitting close by, doesn't even try to challenge the hierarchy. The family's lamb, called Alfred, tries to jump on the rock, but the cat quickly pushes him away.

At first, it looks like nothing. The cat sits atop the rock, her canine friend sitting beside, and a young lamb trying to be part of the fun.

As one viewer joked, the dog probably thought, "Yeah, yeah, I know it's your rock. I was just walking." And it looks like there is no argument, just quiet respect for the established ruler.

The lamb, however, was fearless and had some questions. He stepped closer, curious and slightly chaotic like young animals usually are.

But cats do not need to move much to make a point. They rarely need big gestures to set boundaries. In this case, all it took was a throwing of the paws. The lamb received the message and moved away.

The fun part is the cat then chased him away. What we see at the end of the video is the lamb returning to an empty rock, while the cat is probably detained by its owner.

Related: Golden Retriever's Sweet Reaction to Cat Using Him as a Bed Is Everything

One commenter noticed the details most people miss: when the cat rolls slightly and perks up, that's classic play behavior. The ears, the tail, the quick bursts of movement. It's not about driving the lamb away. It's about engagement.

Maybe the cat was inviting the lamb to play on his terms.

If you've ever watched a cat deal with a new pet, this video might feel familiar.

All cats show that "this is mine" moment. It starts with a testing phase, then quickly shifts to chasing, swatting or anything else that shows who is who on the hierarchy scale.

The dog in the video stays out of it entirely, which somehow makes it funnier. He's seen enough to know how this ends.

Meanwhile, the lamb keeps coming back, undeterred, like every boundary is just a suggestion.

One commenter put it well: "I think the rock is the real winner here—it never moves, yet its company is always sought after."

Nothing changes by the end of the clip. The rock is still there. The cat still owns it. Alfred will probably be back tomorrow.

Yet, for about thirty seconds, three animals negotiate space and personality without a single word, and somehow it's more watchable than most things with a script.

Related: They Hate the Cold, So This Pit Bull and Kitty Found the Cutest Fix Together

An incredible family is currently fostering an adorable 6-year-old Bernese mountain dog named Jack and is available for adoption through Underdog Heroes Rescue. While he waits for his forever family, he's being very well cared for, with a multistep shower routine.

With a smile on his face for the entire video, Jack is enjoying a nice, long shower. The first step, of course, is shampooing, which is applied with a shower brush while massaging his long, shiny fur. And if you're wondering, yes, Jack, like any other Berner, sheds a lot, so much so that his foster family was able to spell his name in the shower wall just with his fur. 

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https://www.youtube.com/shorts/IDxT0FyRbB0

After a nice rinse, Jack wears a pink headband with white polka dots, Minnie Mouse approved, I would assume, and gets dried and ready for the next steps of his shower routine. He accessorizes with another headband, a red one, because why not? And then gets a face massage with a rose quartz face roller—he's a fancy boy!

The following steps include moisturizing his nose and feet, brushing his teeth, cutting and brushing his fur once more, cutting his nails, receiving a back massage, and getting a treat because he couldn't be a better boy, right?

Even though Jack is great with kids, his former family surrendered him because they were expecting a baby. According to the family currently fostering this adorable Bernese mountain dog with puppy-like energy, he's a little shy around strangers, especially blonde people. This very specific aversion is certainly funny and, in Jack's opinion, blondes do not have more fun. 

He's fully potty trained, crate trained, vaccinated, and ready for his forever family. Jack's foster family recommends adoption by a family with experience handling dogs who are a little unsure of strangers. Jack was a "COVID dog." In his early days, he didn't spend much time socializing with other dogs or anyone outside his family. 

All this adorable pup needs from his future family is love, affection, and someone to follow his elaborate shower routine, which is probably more detailed, with more steps, than his owners'. But that's a small price to pay for having an adorable and loving best friend, right?

Related: Owner Worried Sick Over Limping GSD Puppy—and the Internet Had a Surprising Response

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.

The whole clip lasts about 5 seconds, and somehow that is still enough time for Apollo, the Yellow Lab, to become everybody’s favorite waiting room citizen.

He's sitting there beside a Golden Retriever puppy, and the second he realizes what he is next to, his whole body gives him away. Apollo is thrilled. Not politely interested. Not mildly charmed. Fully, joyfully, unmistakably thrilled in the way only a Labrador Retriever can be when life suddenly hands them something soft, tiny, and worth loving immediately.

Apollo loooooves puppies 🐶 #puppytiktok #puppy #lab #goldenretriever #dogsofttiktok

The post caption says Apollo loooooves puppies, and yes, we can absolutely tell.

What makes the moment so good is how honest it feels. He's not trying to dominate the situation or act cool about it. He is just delighted, and that kind of openhearted enthusiasm is basically Labrador brand identity at this point. One comment says, “The sneezes telling everybody he’s friendly. Such a good dog.” That's exactly the energy. Apollo looks like he's trying to tell the whole room, no no, everyone relax, this is the best thing that has ever happened to me, and I mean no harm whatsoever.

And honestly, I get it.

A Golden Retriever puppy is already dangerously cute. Watching a Yellow Lab visibly lose his composure over one feels almost unfair. It's like seeing sunshine meet a smaller piece of sunshine, and somehow both become brighter.

The clip is short, but it shows a whole personality. Apollo is gentle. Social. A little overwhelmed by happiness. The kind of dog who makes a waiting room feel less like waiting and more like an opportunity to make a new friend.

And Labs really do have that effect. Labrador Retrievers are affectionate, outgoing, and good with other dogs, which is part of why a moment like this feels so believable instead of surprising. Apollo isn't acting out of character here. He is just being an especially sweet version of exactly what people already love about Labs.

The cutest part, though, is that Apollo doesn't seem interested in being the big dog in the room. He seems interested in being the nice dog in the room. That's a different thing, and a better one.

We get it, Apollo.

Puppies are hard to resist.

Apparently, especially if you are a Labrador with a good heart and absolutely no intention of hiding it.

Apollo’s puppy excitement is adorable, but it also lines up with the breed’s reputation. The AKC describes Labs as affectionate, outgoing, and family-friendly, and notes that they generally do well with other dogs. That easygoing, social temperament is a big part of why so many Labs end up acting like enthusiastic older siblings around smaller or younger animals.

That doesn't mean every Lab automatically knows how to greet every puppy perfectly. Gentle introductions still matter. Short meetings, calm praise, space to disengage, and supervision go a long way. But when a dog is as people- and dog-oriented as a Lab often is, those sweet “I love this baby already” moments can happen fast. 

Apollo didn't just meet that puppy. He emotionally adopted it in under 10 seconds.

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Related: Yellow Labradors Ignoring Mom to Swim During a Full Rainstorm Are Such a Vibe

Puppies are not easy on anyone, including the other dogs in your house. Getting used to them is an adjustment, and getting through the teething phase is an even larger one. Especially for some of those "land shark" breeds, like the Golden Retriever.

It's not all hard, though: there are some really cute moments. For example, when this Golden Retriever took his Cane Corso brother for a walk. Nothing could be cuter than that... Other than the fact that he kept doing it, even when he grew up:

Melted my heart #fyp #goldenretriever #dogsofttiktok #foryou #bestfriend

This is the only video Connie Hatcher has posted of her dogs: she focuses more on gym content on her account. Clearly, with these two massive boys, she's going to need all the strength she can get. I know they would be dragging her around otherwise!

When the Golden Retriever was little, he learned how to pick up the Cane Corso's leash, and he would "walk" him all around the house. He kept doing it even after he started growing up, which is way too sweet!

Related: Abandoned Golden Retriever’s Happy Hops After Rescue Are Pure Joy

If a human were walking him, we'd all be talking about the terrible leash etiquette here. You are not supposed to pull on your dog's leash, and you're not really supposed to walk in front of them, either! He's just so happy to show off his walking skills.

Luckily, the Cane Corso is used to it at this point. He just takes his time no matter what: maybe he's trying to teach his younger brother some patience! It's not working, obviously, but I commend him for trying!

Cane Corsos are very intimidating. They're guard dogs, and a lot of people claim they're better off being the only dog in a home because of their protective tendencies.

Image via Shutterstock / Daria Shvetcova

Cane Corsos are naturally confrontational and dominant. They speak their minds and don't let anything get in their way. They can sometimes be aggressive with other dogs, but will often be fine if:

• They're socialized with other dogs from a young age.
• They're paired with the opposite sex (not completely necessary, but it often helps).
• They have a dedicated space to go for time to themselves.

This Cane Corso has known his brother since he was a puppy. Everything between them is fine, thankfully!

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Leo, the miniature dachshund of Ferrari's Formula 1 driver Charles Leclerc, was the center of attention during the Miami Grand Prix, which took place from Friday, May 1, to Sunday, May 3, at the Miami International Autodrome at Hard Rock Stadium. The adorable golden-blonde dog arrived with his parents, Charles and Alexandra, on race day and was the center of attention, with all the cameras pointed at him. 

He's seen walking ahead of his owners, happily stomping, with a big smile on his face and his tail enthusiastically wagging, while the photographers capture all his best angles. Leo knows he's the start of the show.

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https://www.youtube.com/shorts/qafAlF0Aftw

The overwhelming attention doesn't scare the charming miniature dachshund, who always makes an appearance at most of his father's Formula 1 races around the world. The first Grand Prix he attended was the 2024 Miami Grand Prix. And since then, he's been the highlight of every race, with drivers and fans swooning over this adorable blondie. 

Back in 2024, Leo was such an esteemed guest that he even had his own personalized VIP paddock pass, featuring his full name, Leo Leclerc Saint Mleux (yes, he's very fancy), along with his photo ID. Nowadays, he doesn't even need a pass, as everyone already knows and loves him. He's famous now, and here's to hoping it doesn't go to his head! 

Related: Adorable Security Dog Charms Sandra Bullock in the Sweetest Surprise Moment

If you're wondering, yes, he also does weddings. In fact, Leo's parents married earlier this year in a private civil ceremony in Monaco, and Leo was, of course, present. He was in the official photos, standing between the newlyweds and overlooking the ocean. For the ceremony, he even wore a tiny tuxedo—it can't get any more precious than that! 

And that's not all, Leo was also represented in the wedding cake, which featured a small figurine of him next to what appeared to be a tiny bite. How adorable!

In the comment section, users shared their opinions: "They love Leo so much, it's so cute." "They're as obsessed with their dog as I am with mine," someone wrote. Another user manifested their wish, "I want to be reborn as this dog in another life." And honestly, fair. Who wouldn't? 

Leo gets to follow his parents to fancy events and be the star of the show just by being himself. What can I say, some people (or dogs) are just meant to be superstars, and Leo's one of them!

Related: Lonzo Ball’s Farewell to His First Dog Is a Heartbreaking Surprise for Fans

She didn't go looking for a German shepherd. One just appeared near her home in February, terrified of cars and men, no microchip, no training, a dog who clearly hadn't had much go right for him.

She took him in anyway and named him Koda.

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Two and a half months later, she's sorting through conflicting advice from strangers on the internet, trying to figure out what to feed a dog with a sensitive stomach. Not because she has to. Because she decided he deserved someone who would.

That's the part that gets overlooked in rescue stories. For many pet parents who rescue dogs, the first crisis is keeping the dog and making him feel safe. But then a quieter one starts. Less dramatic, but just as consuming.

In this case, it's diet. Koda doesn't do well on regular kibble, which, as she quickly found out, puts her in very large company.

"I didn't sign up for a GSD," she wrote in her Reddit post. "But I want to give him the best life possible."

She'd already hit the research wall that every pet parent eventually finds. Each answer points to another answer that contradicts the first one. The thread filled up fast with owners who recognized the feeling.

Related: Pregnant German Shepherd Mix Saved From Euthanasia — and Her Reaction Is Unforgettable

Looking at the answers from the community, one thing is certain: German shepherds don't follow a template.

One commenter said his dog thrives on mid-range lamb kibble and is allergic to chicken. Another talked about his dog being allergic to lamb and doing great on chicken. Same breed, two different feeding situations.

Koda's mom mentioned raw feeding, and that she wants to try it. There is a good case for a raw diet; it gives you more control over ingredients, no fillers, cleaner labels. But several owners pushed back, especially for younger dogs.

"I don't think raw is a good idea, especially when you don't know what you're doing. It can be really dangerous," one wrote.

The risk isn't just bacterial. Puppies and young dogs need precise calcium and phosphorus levels for bone development.

The safer middle ground, many owners agreed, is a hybrid approach: a nutritionally complete base, with fresh or dehydrated additions making up roughly 20 percent of the meal. One commenter mentioned that he feeds his German shepherd a commercial salmon-based kibble with a dehydrated fruit-and-vegetable mix on top.

For Koda specifically, the real question probably isn't raw versus kibble. It's figuring out what his stomach is actually reacting to. German shepherds are prone to chicken and poultry allergies. Switching foods too fast can cause the same symptoms as the wrong food.

Koda didn't arrive with instructions. He arrived scared, with no history anyone knew, and no one who'd been paying attention to what he ate or how he felt.

He has someone paying attention now. Someone who posts on Reddit, reads the replies, and tries again when something doesn't work.

That's not a small thing for a dog who didn't have it before.

Related: This Baby Girl Is Discovering the World—and Her German Shepherd Refuses to Miss a Single Moment

Raising kittens is not easy, regardless of whether you're their mama or the human trying to care for them. There are going to be times when a break is very much necessary, and that's totally fine! We shouldn't expect a new mom to be 100% on all the time!

Luckily, one Maine Coon has it covered. Her sister just had kittens, and she needed a break. Auntie knew that, and she decided to take matters into her own paws, snatching up her new kittens with ease! She's even letting them nurse:

Another day, another mama nursing a baby that isn’t hers. It takes a village and I am grateful for ours! #cats #mainecoonkittens #orphanedkittens #fypシ #mainecoonsoftiktok

The Villainous Felines might have a slightly intimidating name, but they're as sweet as can be. All of these cats love each other so much, and apparently, this kind of thing happens all the time. Every single cat makes sure those babies feel loved and cared for, even if they're not theirs.

That's exactly how this should be. The kittens grow up with lots of different helping hands, and that will make it so they're not freaked out if they get to their forever home and find that there are other, older cats there.

Related: Rare Blue-Eyed Maine Coon Looks Like an Ocean Princess

The cat in this video actually has her own kittens, which is what makes this so silly. Her own kittens are trying to nurse, and then there are just a couple of random cousins in the mix, trying to steal some milk! When they're all done with their meals, they love to play together:

#party #partyanimals #cats #catparty #fypシ

I've never seen so much fluff in one place! How amazing is it to have so many cute kittens? They won't be there for long, so I know their human caretaker is soaking in all of this sweetness while she can.

These cats are all familiar with each other. They're one big family, and at any given time, more than one of these cats is lactating at a time. It really makes caring for the gaggles of kittens easier!

Image via Shutterstock / Nadia Cruzova

It's totally fine for a cat to nurse kittens who aren't hers. It's actually pretty common, especially with cats who have bigger litters. It's also very helpful: if your cat rejects her kittens, they may still be able to nurse with another cat! Before you allow another cat to nurse kittens who aren't hers, make sure she's:

• Fully vaccinated.
• In good health.
• Preferably, familiar with the kittens and their mothers, which will help prevent fighting.

Luckily, this auntie checks every single box! Thank goodness!

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You think you’re prepared to see cute kittens… and then someone names them after AC/DC songs, and suddenly it becomes a whole experience.

Because now it’s not just kittens. It’s tiny, fluffy rock legends with personalities.

I rushed to make this and did it in like 15 minutes but you can tell by the number of times I say “I don’t know…” 🫣 I don’t know… maybe I say it a lot in real life too 😆 I didn’t include Angus Young because I showed him off yesterday 🎸 #mitchacoontails #acdc #mainecoon #fluffycat #kittens

TikToker @mitchacoontails introduces her Maine Coon kittens one by one, and honestly, each reveal feels like a lineup drop.

Related: Cat Mom Proves Maine Coon Cats Are Basically the Size of Golden Retrievers

First up is Thunderstruck, a super-fluffy gray kitten who already looks like he knows he’s the moment. Then there’s TNT, a gray-and-white kitten with incredible ear tufts that deserve their own fan club. And then Hells Bells, a little girl with the sweetest face, which feels ironic given the name… but also perfect.

And yes, Angus Young has already made an appearance, because of course he has.

I completely love when Angus crosses his arms… dude’s got spunk. #mitchacoontails #mainecoon #mainecoonkittens #gotmilk #cats

• “Omg. I want one. They are my dream cat.”
• “They are stunning! I’ve got 2 myself, so I’m definitely biased.”
• “They are incredible! Love hearing about their personalities.”
• “Ma’am, your whole crew is adorable.”
• “She has the sweetest face.”

It’s the kind of content where you start out casually watching, and then suddenly you’re picking favorites and wondering if your life is missing a Maine Coon named after a rock song.

Also, something about pairing these dramatic, majestic cats with AC/DC names just works. Like yes, this tiny fluffball is called Thunderstruck, and yes, he already has stage presence.

Amstel’s “Married… with Children” brew Very proud of these guys and already am smitten. It’s been a long long time since we’ve had a black tabby (Marcy) here at the bar. She’s GORGEOUS! #marriedwithchildren #cats #kittenlove #mainecoon #tabbycat

As cute as they are, timing matters when it comes to bringing kittens home.

• Kittens should stay with their mother until at least 8 to 12 weeks old.
• This time helps them learn important social and behavioral skills.
• They rely on their mom for early nutrition and immune support.
• Playing with siblings teaches boundaries (very important later).
• Early separation can lead to anxiety or behavioral issues.
• Responsible breeders typically wait until kittens are fully ready before rehoming.

So while it’s very tempting to want one immediately…

These little rock stars need a bit more time backstage before their big debut.

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It is a special kind of heartbreak to go to the veterinary office for what you assume is a minor ailment and return home with an empty carrier.

For one college student, a routine morning turned into a nightmare when her 10-year-old cat, Oscar, had to be euthanized due to a sudden urinary blockage.

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In her first post on Reddit, she talked about getting Oscar when she was 13 and how she planned to take him to college with her in September.

Sadly, things didn't turn out that way. She had been under the impression that Oscar was constipated. Overnight treatment cost more than she could manage, so she waited until morning. By morning, it was too late.

She had been afraid people would blame her for not catching the blockage sooner or rushing to the vet office at 2 a.m. Yet, the community responded with support.

If you've never dealt with one, a urinary blockage sounds like something that builds slowly. It often doesn't.

One commenter who had gone through the same thing described how their cat developed a blockage overnight. At first they laughed because their cat used to pee in the sink as a kitten. But they soon realized something was wrong.

Many more cat parents feel that same confusion. The signs are there, and they're easy to misread, until they're not.

Vets in the thread pushed back on the idea that it happens instantly. A blocked bladder typically takes at least a day to develop, sometimes longer, but the symptoms can escalate fast.

Cats may strain in the litter box, make repeated trips without producing urine, cry out, or start going in odd places. By the time it's obvious, it's already an emergency.

Related: Paralyzed Tuxedo Kitten Learns To Walk by Doing Tiny Handstands

The next day, she was back online, not to grieve, but to figure out how to protect her 6-year-old cat still at home.

She described feeding time without Oscar: no second set of paws, no yelling, no chaos. Just silence. And right behind the grief? Fear.

Vets and experienced owners offered practical advice. None of those are guarantees, but they can lower the risk.

Hydration came up first, every time. Cats on wetter diets tend to have fewer urinary issues, which is why many vets recommend wet food or water added to meals. One commenter mentioned soaking dry food as a workaround during tighter times.

Weight matters, too. Overweight cats face a higher risk of urinary problems, as well as a range of other conditions.

One vet kept it simple: The main precautions are hydration and keeping weight in check. Not foolproof, but they help.

Last, but not least: pay attention. Catching small changes early can make all the difference.

Small observations matter more than perfect decisions.

Make water easy to get to. Add moisture to meals if you can. Watch litter box habits, even when nothing seems wrong. If something feels off, don't wait.

The hardest part is not losing your pet. The hardest part is realizing you had time to learn the signs and symptoms, and never knew you needed to.

Related: Massive, Rare 'Stop Sale' Issued for Popular Cat Food Due to Serious Health Risks

Niall Harbison comes across street dogs with severe injuries and health complications through his Thailand animal rescue, Happy Doggo. About one month ago, Harbison rescued a dog with serious medical issues. The frightened fur baby lashed out due to the extreme pain he was in when anyone tried to help him.

The Happy Doggo team worked its magic and slowly earned the canine's trust. Now, just 30 days later, the precious pooch is like a different dog.

The Instagram video from @niall.harbison revealed the poor condition the pooch was in when Harbison brought him to the rescue for medical treatment. The animal advocate named him George Clooney as a promise to him to one day "be healed and look like a movie star."

The social media post shared clips of Harbison and his team taking baby steps toward building a relationship with George despite his fearful responses. Each Happy Doggo member was patient, gentle, and committed to George's healing journey.

Over the weeks that transpired, George made a remarkable transformation. Harbison attributed the progress to several factors, listing one specific recovery item at the top of the list.

"Sometimes it is the medicines that help most for the street dogs who are as sick as George when they come in — sometimes it is the food and shelter," he shared in the caption. "But in this case, I think the most important factor has been the love. George gets it daily and it has changed his life."

Harbison waited til the end of the video to share the best news of all for George.

"Now that he is recovered, George Clooney is gonna be adopted," he said with a huge smile — even George was smiling! "We've been speaking to the people in his community, and they absolutely support the decision to get him a forever home."

"George Clooney is one of the nicest dogs you'll ever come across," Harbison continued. "He was just in horrendous pain when he was lashing out at us at the start. He wouldn't let us touch him. But now he is not only one of the best-looking boys and deserving of his movie star name, but after he fully recovers in another two or three months of his ongoing treatment and his paperwork, he will be available for adoption."

"That's an unbelievable turnaround, mister," Harbison said to George as the sweet pup looked back at him with pure joy. "You're going to get a forever home."

Related: Street Dog Truly 'Worked Miracles' to Keep Her 3 Puppies Alive and It's Awe-Inspiring

Harbison launched Happy Doggo in 2021. In addition to the sterilization and daily feeding of thousands of street dogs, he recently opened a full-service medical clinic in honor of his beloved Golden Retriever, Tina.

Learn more about Happy Doggo or make a donation by visiting their website or social media accounts on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok.

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If you're anything like me, you're constantly wondering if your pet loves you or not. I have dogs, so it's pretty easy to tell that they definitely do love me and trust me completely, but cats can be a little harder. Some of them are total lovebugs, but there are also plenty who simply aren't like that.

There's one thing that can help clue you in, though, and a lot of cat parents actually have no idea about it. If your cat is constantly sitting in this position, it's a sign that they feel safe around you, and that you've definitely earned their trust:

Why do cats loaf? It’s more than just cute — it’s one of the ways they show trust and comfort! #cat #catsoftiktok #loafing #catbehavior #catfacts

BasePaws knows a lot about cats, but this might be my favorite piece of knowledge ever. There are so many cats who loaf all the time, and yet their parents are always left wondering if they really care for them!

Cats loaf as a way to conserve body heat: they lose or retain a lot of heat through their paws, just like we do through our hands and feet. If they want to stay warm, they tuck their paws in. It creates this "loaf" position, typically called that because they resemble a loaf of bread.

Related: New Mama Maine Coon Cat Making Biscuits on Her Babies Is the Sweetest

Loafing is just one of an endless number of positions you might find your cat in throughout the day. Though you might not think the way a cat is sitting can really say much, that's actually not true at all. These are some of the most common positions for cats:

• Loafing: "I feel safe and happy."
• Belly-up: "I feel REALLY safe and happy."
• Sitting straight up, ears perked: "Something fishy is happening here, and I'm on alert."
• Cowering, ears back: "I'm scared!"
• Favoring one side/paw/refusing to be pet, ears back: "Something hurts."

Just because your cat is standing in a position that might lean toward them being uncomfortable or scared doesn't mean they don't like or trust you. It just means something is upsetting them in that moment, and you should try to fix it.

Cats loaf around when they're lounging, often either on top of you, next to you, or in their favorite spots. Loafing is like their reward after a long, hard day.

Image via Shutterstock / DimaBerlin

"Loafing" requires a cat to tuck their paws up under their body. The reason why they'll only do it when they feel safe is simple: with their paws tucked in, they can't get away as quickly. It'll be harder for them to flee if a threat comes along. If your cat is loafing, it's because you've helped them learn that you'd never let anything hurt them!

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Some headlines are scary on first read.

This one gets worse the more you learn.

Two hikers were injured Monday afternoon on the Mystic Falls Trail near Old Faithful in Yellowstone National Park after an encounter with one or more bears, according to the National Park Service. The park has not confirmed the species, though national coverage and TV segments have described it as a possible grizzly attack. Yellowstone temporarily closed trails and nearby backcountry sites in the area while the investigation continued. 

Two hikers were mauled in a possible grizzly bear attack at Yellowstone National Park. Another hiker found them by following bear prints in the mud and hearing calls for help. Trevor Ault has the latest.

What makes this story especially harrowing is how the victims were found.

ABC News reported that another hiker, Craig Lerman of Maryland, came upon the aftermath after noticing at least two sets of claw marks, then spotting a bloody hat and a torn-off watch near the trail. He soon heard one of the injured hikers calling for help.

Lerman told ABC the victim had wounds to his face, back, and legs, and that he stayed with him, gave him his shirt for warmth, and remained there until first responders arrived and the man was airlifted out.

And that's the part that really sticks.

It's one thing to hear “bear attack” and picture a distant emergency response. It's another to imagine someone hiking, noticing fresh prints in the mud, then following the trail of damage into something that looked so bad he first thought it had to be a prank. Lerman told reporters that when he got closer, he realized immediately it was not a joke. That detail alone makes the whole thing feel less like a news brief and more like the beginning of a nightmare.

The park has still released only limited official information. NPS said the two hikers “sustained injuries by one or more bears” and that the case remains under investigation. Officials have not publicly identified the hikers, described the bear’s behavior in detail, or said whether any bear management action will follow. Yellowstone also said this was the first incident of a bear injuring a person in the park in 2026; the last human fatality caused by a bear in Yellowstone was in 2015. 

That uncertainty is part of what makes the story linger. There is the violence of the attack itself, yes, but there is also the sheer randomness of rescue. Another hiker happened to notice the signs, kept going, and got there in time to help. Without that, this story could have ended very differently. 

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Related: Connecticut Bear Cracks Hot Tub Open—His Next Move Stuns Everyone

Reunited, and it feels so good!

It's especially good when you're a little Dachshund reuniting with your mom after you've been apart for a week.

In this heartwarming viral dog video, the pup is so overwhelmed with excitement that her mom can literally hear her from down the street.

The emotional dog reunion quickly turns hilarious thanks to the Dachshund's overwhelmingly loving and enthusiastic response.

Peed all over me 😌 what a welcome home

It's so sweet to see these two ladies crying tears of happiness!

Fortunately, only one peed on the other (we won't blame Lady for that, though, as sometimes bodily functions just can't be controlled when we're overwhelmed with emotion!).

So why is Lady so excited that she can barely contain herself?

According to Alison Gerken, a board-certified veterinary behaviorist at the SPCA in San Francisco, California, many factors contribute to a dog's excited state, including relationship development and neurobiology.

One of those neurobiological factors is oxytocin, a hormone and neuropeptide that has a lot to do with those strong feelings of connection and trust between a dog and their pet parent.

Now the pup doesn't know that a week has passed since she has seen her mom, because they don't understand the concept of time the way we do. But dogs do know their routines, and they know when something is different.

They also know they love their parents! Research has shown that the longer a dog's parent is away, the more enthusiastic the pooch's response will be.

Related: This Sleepy Dachshund Refuses To Wake Up—and Dog Mom Can’t Handle It

Lady and her mom, influencer Abby Baffoe, are usually inseparable, so this must have been a tough week for this little pup, even though she was staying with her mom's loving family.

Lady and her mom recently celebrated the anniversary of her Gotcha Day, and her mom marked the important day by posting a photo slideshow of some of their first memories.

The photo slideshow showed Lady’s glamorous life with her mom, full of travel, photo shoots, and shopping sprees!

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Cats are notorious for crafting plans to get what they want. Even those with physical limitations don't let anything stand in the way between them and a tasty treat. Their grit and determination in the pursuit of food are nothing short of inspiring, to say the least.

Low Ryder is like all other Orange Cats, but without the use of his back legs. But don't let this paralyzed cat fool you—he knows how to work the food distribution system in the most clever, kitty-coded way ever.

My paralyzed cat has a system for begging his dad for chicken 😭 And it works every time… #ParalyzedCat #FunnyCats #Catsoftiktok #CatDad #ViralPets

In order for a paraplegic Low Ryder to get some yummy chicken, this intelligent Orange Kitty devised the most perfect plan, and if all cats knew it, we'd be done for.

• Step 1: Be cute.
• Step 2: Don't stop.
• Step 3: Success!

Being cute is honestly the best way to get anything you want, and if you have doubts, talk to my three cats, who get more treats than they probably deserve, all for playing the cute card! Low Ryder's fans hailed the method as fail-proof, effective, and a "nice system," and none of those are remotely close to what it really is: diabolical and smart!

Related: Special-Needs Cat Wobbles With Excitement Over Lookalike Stuffie

The funny cat may love his treats, but there's something he loves more. Or, should I say someone: Mom. Dad might be the sucker who caves and gives Low Ryder chicken, but Mom gets all the sweet and cuddly snuggles. While chilling in Mom's lap, his little legs are the most adorable sight!

Ryder is now and forever my whole heart 🩷 🐾 #PetLove #Catsoftiktok #RescueCat #CatLife #ParalyzedCat

As you can see with Low Ryder, paralyzed cats are just like any other felines. They just navigate the world with a different set of circumstances that suits them better.

Whether it's about food, affection, or playtime, these resilient kitties adapt by relying on the strength of their front legs to get around while using big-brain energy to create strategies for getting what they're after (like being cute for treats!).

These special-needs cats may know life is a little more challenging with only their front legs, but it won't stop them from doing all the cat things. Honestly, Low Ryder's "give no fluffs" attitude for chicken is about as "cat" as a cat can get—no back leg mobility required!

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Everyone loves a cat with a rare coat color. Whether you're looking at a Blue Tortie Maine Coon or a kitten whose face makes a perfect flame, those will always be the cats most people gravitate toward. However, there's one thing that always gets me: eyes. Cat eyes are amazing.

Just look at this Maine Coon! Blue eyes on a Maine Coon are very rare, and her eyes aren't just blue. They look like the kind of color you'd only find in an ocean princess's favorite necklace, or on her ball gown. This kitten is simply stunning:

The Wilder Regenbogen Cattery is home to some of the most stunning cats I've ever seen in my life. The cattery is in Switzerland, and they specialize in European Maine Coons, which is part of why they're so breathtaking. European Maine Coons are slight:

• Fluffier.
• Larger.
• More angular, especially in their faces.

This Maine Coon kitten is grey and white, with a little bit of orange around her face. It almost looks like a little beard! She's going to grow up to be the most beautiful cat ever.

Related: Rare Ragdoll-Maine Coon Mix Can’t Get Enough of a ‘Fancy’ Paper Bag

Though Maine Coons having blue eyes is pretty rare, especially in cats who aren't fully right, Wilder Regenbogen seems to have quite a few of them, and in all different colors! They even have one who's orange!

I just know this cat is giving the cattery a run for their money. She just looks so adventurous and silly, which is exactly what makes Maine Coons so precious. If I ever get a cat, I need one of these!

Blue eyes are pretty much the standard for some breeds, like the Ragdoll cat. A lot of people believe that purebred Ragdolls can only have blue eyes! However, when it comes to Maine Coon, you almost never see blue eyes, unless they're fully white!

Image via Shutterstock / Anton Pentegov

All Maine Coon kittens are born with blue-grey eyes, but they quickly turn to other colors as they age. Though there isn't an exact percentage of how often they occur, blue eyes are not considered "breed standard" by TICA, and they're almost always only found in fully white or mostly white Maine Coons.

While a Maine Coon having blue eyes and a fully pigmented coat does not mean they're unhealthy at all, it does mean you need to be careful. If you're purchasing from a breeder, make sure you get their paperwork to prove they're not a mix!

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