Why do cats knead with their paws?

According to a veterinarian, the behavior some people call 'kneading the dough' or 'making biscuits' is a clue your cat feels comfortable around you.

Julia Albright, Associate Professor of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee • conversation
June 14, 2021 • ~4 min

Genes wire puppies to communicate with people

Puppies may be able to communicate with people shortly after birth, researchers report. Their genes also point to whether they'll be good at social skills.

Alexis Blue-U. Arizona • futurity
June 3, 2021 • ~7 min

Stressed pets: how to keep your dogs relaxed when leaving them alone

Dogs that have grown used to being around humans all the time might suffer from separation anxiety.

Jenna Kiddie, Visiting Research Fellow, University of Cumbria; Head of Canine Behaviour, Dogs Trust, University of Cumbria • conversation
June 1, 2021 • ~6 min

What actually is catnip and is it safe for my cat?

Catnip’s status as kitty kryptonite is due to a chemical compound called nepalacatlon, but what actually is catnip?

Lauren Finka, Postdoctoral Research Associate, Nottingham Trent University • conversation
May 21, 2021 • ~5 min

Will robots make good friends? Scientists are already starting to find out

Robots and humans can be friends – but not in a way that would win Aristotle's approval.

Tony Prescott, Professor of Cognitive Neuroscience and Director of the Sheffield Robotics Institute, University of Sheffield • conversation
Feb. 15, 2021 • ~8 min

When dogs bark, are they using words to communicate?

Dogs' barks say a lot about how they're feeling.

Clive Wynne, Professor of Psychology, Arizona State University • conversation
Feb. 8, 2021 • ~4 min

Mistrust may be why some dog owners avoid the vet

In addition to things like cost and access, lack of trust may be why some dog owners avoid taking their pet to the veterinarian.

Tracey Peake-NC State • futurity
Jan. 27, 2021 • ~5 min

How Biden's dogs could make the Oval Office a workplace with less stress and better decision-making

Research shows the presence of dogs increases overall human well-being, which can come in handy in high-stress work environments like the White House.

Ellen Furlong, Associate Professor of Psychology, Illinois Wesleyan University • conversation
Jan. 26, 2021 • ~7 min

Is COVID-19 infecting wild animals? We're testing species from bats to seals to find out

COVID-19 has been found in pets, zoo animals and in a wild mink in Utah. Monitoring wildlife for COVID-19 is important for animals and humans, both of whom face risks from a jumping virus.

Kaitlin Sawatzki, Postdoctoral Infectious Disease Researcher, Tufts University • conversation
Jan. 19, 2021 • ~8 min

How to avoid scams when buying a pet online

There are thousands of fraudulent websites waiting to scam potential pet owners.

Jack Mark Whittaker, PhD Researcher, Sociology of Cybercrime, University of Surrey • conversation
Jan. 13, 2021 • ~5 min

/

14