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Why dental health matters more than you think

By the time a pet develops noticeably bad breath, its dental problems may already extend beyond an unpleasant smell. Dental disease is one of the most common health problems affecting dogs and cats, and without proper care, problems that begin in the mouth can cause pain, infection and other health concerns. Dental disease typically begins when plaque, a sticky film containing bacteria, builds up on the teeth. If plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar and contribute to inflammation of the gums. As the disease progresses, bacteria can move below the gumline, damaging the tissues and bone that support the teeth. Because much of dental disease develops below the gumline, a pet's teeth may appear relatively normal even when problems are developing underneath. Pets are also good at hiding discomfort, meaning owners may not immediately realize something is wrong. Signs of dental trouble can include persistent bad breath, red or swollen gums, yellow or brown tartar buildup, loose or broken teeth, excessive drooling, pawing at the mouth and difficulty chewing. Some pets may begin dropping food, chewing on only one side of the mouth or showing less interest in hard treats and toys. Dental disease is more than a problem with teeth. When gums become inflamed or infected, bacteria can enter the bloodstream. Research has found associations between periodontal disease and changes involving organs such as the heart, kidneys and liver. While the exact relationship between oral disease and systemic illness is complex, maintaining a healthy mouth is an important part of protecting a pet's overall health.

Untreated dental disease can also significantly affect quality of life. Infected teeth, exposed roots and damaged gums can be painful. Because pets cannot tell their owners when a tooth hurts, chronic oral pain can sometimes appear as subtle behavioral changes, such as irritability, decreased activity or reluctance to eat. Prevention begins at home. Regular tooth brushing with toothpaste formulated specifically for pets is one of the most effective ways to reduce plaque buildup. Human toothpaste should not be used because some ingredients can be harmful to animals. Dental chews, treats, diets and other products designed to promote oral health may also help, although they should complement rather than replace veterinary dental care. Pet owners should ask their veterinarian which products are appropriate for their animal. Routine veterinary examinations are another important part of prevention. A veterinarian can examine the mouth for signs of disease and determine when a professional dental cleaning or additional treatment is needed. Professional cleanings allow veterinary teams to remove plaque and tartar above and below the gumline and evaluate each tooth for problems that may not be visible during a routine examination. Owners should also avoid waiting until their pet stops eating before seeking care. Many dogs and cats continue eating despite significant dental pain. A healthy mouth may seem like a small part of pet care, but its effects can reach much further. By paying attention to dental health throughout a pet's life, owners can help prevent unnecessary pain, identify problems earlier and support their pet's overall well-being.

The Home News 2026 Pet Supplement | October 8, 2026

1st Place: Oakley is a 2-year-old little lion head bunny who loves his fresh herbs. He knows he’s adored & spoiled. Even enjoys getting pampered by belly rubs, nothings off limits with this little love. 2nd Place: Kezzie is an 8-year-old Australian Shepherd. She loves scent work and has earned her NACSW Elite Champion title! She continues to go to classes, train and looks forward to nose work trials. She has the absolute best smile and is a very happy girl! Kez also thinks the world revolves around her and loves to be the center of attention. 3rd Place: Moose, age 3, is a Great Dane. He is blind in the left eye, and his best friend is a basset hound.

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October 8, 2026 | homenewspa.com

Why cats scratch and how to save your furniture A shredded sofa arm or scratched-up doorframe can be frustrating for cat owners, but scratching is not a sign of bad behavior. It is a normal and necessary part of being a cat. Cats scratch for several reasons, including maintaining their claws, stretching their muscles, marking territory and relieving stress. Rather than trying to stop scratching altogether, pet owners can protect their furniture by giving cats appropriate places to perform the behavior. When a cat scratches, the action helps remove the worn outer layers of its claws and exposes healthier claw underneath. Scratching also provides a full-body stretch, particularly through the shoulders, legs and back. Cats also use scratching as a form of communication. Their paws contain scent glands, meaning scratching leaves both a visible mark and a scent behind. This is one reason cats may repeatedly return to prominent areas of the home, particularly places where family members spend a lot of time.

Give them something better to scratch

A scratching post is most effective when it matches

the cat's preferences. Some cats prefer tall, vertical posts, while others are more interested in horizontal scratching pads. Materials can also make a difference. Sisal, cardboard, carpet and wood may appeal to different cats. Vertical scratching posts should be tall enough for a cat to fully stretch its body and sturdy enough that they do not wobble or tip when used. A post that moves under a cat's weight may quickly be abandoned. Owners of cats that prefer scratching carpet or other horizontal surfaces may have better luck with flat cardboard scratchers or scratching mats. Providing several options can help determine what an individual cat prefers.

Location matters

One of the most common mistakes owners make is placing a scratching post somewhere convenient for people rather than somewhere useful to the cat. If a cat repeatedly scratches one corner of the sofa, placing a scratching post directly beside that area can make the alternative easier to discover. Once the cat is regularly using the post, it may gradually be moved to a more desirable location. Scratchers can also be useful near sleeping areas because many cats enjoy stretching and scratching shortly after waking. In homes with multiple cats, providing several scratching locations throughout the house can help ensure each cat has access to an appropriate surface. Continued on Page 5 4

The Home News 2026 Pet Supplement | October 8, 2026

Why cats scratch Continued from Page 4

Redirect rather than punish

Yelling, spraying a cat with water or physically punishing it for scratching is unlikely to teach the animal what it should scratch instead. Punishment may also create fear or stress without addressing the underlying behavior. Instead, owners can calmly redirect the cat toward an appropriate scratching surface. Treats, praise or play can be used to reward the cat when it chooses the correct spot. Catnip or silver vine may make a new scratcher more appealing to some cats. Toys can also be used to encourage exploration around a scratching post, although owners should avoid physically forcing a cat's paws onto the surface. Meanwhile, furniture can temporarily be made less appealing with furniture-safe protective coverings or double-sided products designed to discourage scratching. Keeping a cat's claws appropriately trimmed may also reduce damage, though trimming does not eliminate the need to scratch.

Pay attention to changes

Although scratching is normal, a sudden increase in the behavior can sometimes accompany changes

in a cat's environment or stress level. A new pet, visitors, construction, changes in routine or conflict between household cats may contribute to increased territorial scratching. If scratching suddenly becomes excessive or is accompanied by other behavioral or physical changes, owners should discuss the change with their veterinarian. The goal is not to convince a cat to stop scratching. It is to give the animal an acceptable place to do something that comes naturally. With the right scratching surfaces, thoughtful placement and consistent positive redirection, cats can satisfy their instincts without sacrificing the living room sofa.

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Indoor enrichment for the long winter ahead

As colder weather settles in and daylight hours grow shorter, dogs and cats may find themselves spending more time indoors. While a warm spot on the couch might sound appealing, pets still need regular mental and physical activity, even when winter weather limits their time outside. Indoor enrichment can help keep pets active, engaged and entertained while providing an outlet for natural behaviors such as sniffing, searching, chasing, scratching and problem-solving. For dogs, one of the simplest ways to provide mental stimulation is to make mealtime more challenging. Instead of serving kibble in a traditional bowl, owners can use puzzle feeders, treatdispensing toys or snuffle mats that encourage dogs to work for their food. Owners can also hide small portions of a dog's meal around a room and encourage the dog to find them. Nose work taps into a dog's powerful sense of smell and can be surprisingly tiring, even without strenuous physical exercise. Training sessions offer another way to exercise a dog's brain. Winter can be a good time to practice basic commands or introduce new tricks, such as

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retrieving specific toys, putting toys into a basket, touching a target with the nose or learning the names of household objects. Training sessions do not need to be long. Several short sessions throughout the day may be more effective—and more enjoyable—than one lengthy lesson. Physical activity can also move indoors. Depending on a dog's age, health and mobility, owners can play games of fetch in a hallway, tug with an appropriate toy or create a simple obstacle course using household items. Dogs can be encouraged to walk around cones, step over low obstacles or search through cardboard boxes for hidden treats. Cats benefit from enrichment just as much as dogs, particularly indoor cats whose environment may remain largely unchanged from day to day. Interactive toys that imitate prey can encourage cats to stalk, chase and pounce. Wand toys are especially useful because owners can control the movement and vary the game. Allowing the cat to occasionally "catch" the toy can help make the activity more satisfying. Cats also benefit from opportunities to climb and observe their surroundings. Cat trees, shelves, window perches and other elevated resting places can expand a cat's usable territory without requiring additional floor space. Even an ordinary cardboard box or paper bag with the handles removed can become a source of entertainment. Rotating toys rather than leaving every toy available all the time can also help maintain a cat's interest. Food puzzles can be used with cats as well. Treats or portions of a cat's regular food can be placed in puzzle feeders or hidden in safe locations around the home, encouraging the cat to search and problem-solve. Continued on Page 7 The Home News 2026 Pet Supplement | October 8, 2026

Indoor enrichment Continued from Page 6

Enrichment does not necessarily require buying expensive toys. Cardboard boxes, paper towel tubes and other household items can sometimes be turned into simple activities, provided pets are supervised and the materials do not present choking or ingestion hazards. Owners should also consider what their individual pet enjoys. A senior dog with arthritis will have different physical needs than an energetic young dog, while a shy cat may prefer quiet exploration to highly active play. Activities should be appropriate for a pet's age, health, temperament and physical abilities. Mental exercise should complement, rather than completely replace, physical activity. Dogs that can safely spend time outdoors will still benefit from walks and opportunities to sniff and explore when weather conditions permit. The goal is not to keep pets occupied every minute of the day. Rest is important, too. Instead, enrichment gives pets healthy ways to use their minds and bodies and helps prevent the boredom that can develop when winter routines become repetitive. A few short activities scattered throughout the day can make a significant difference. Whether it is a scavenger hunt for treats, a five-minute training session, a cardboard box to investigate or an energetic game with a favorite toy, keeping pets engaged can help make the long winter indoors healthier and more interesting for everyone.

Pumpkin for pets: When and how to serve it

Pumpkin may be a fall favorite, but 100% pure canned pumpkin can also be a useful addition to a dog or cat’s diet. Served in moderation, it provides fiber and moisture that may help support healthy digestion. The key is choosing the right product. Look for canned pumpkin with pumpkin as the only ingredient. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, which can contain added sugar, spices and other ingredients pets do not need.

Why give pumpkin?

Pumpkin’s fiber can help regulate digestion. Its soluble fiber absorbs water and may add bulk to loose stool, while its combination of fiber and moisture may also help pets experiencing mild constipation. Pumpkin also contains beta carotene, potassium and other nutrients, but it should be considered a supplement or occasional food topper, not a replacement for a complete and balanced diet. October 8, 2026 | homenewspa.com

When should you give it?

Plain pumpkin may be helpful for a mild, shortlived bout of diarrhea or constipation, or when a veterinarian recommends adding fiber to a pet’s diet. It can also be offered occasionally as a treat or food topper. Pumpkin is not a cure for persistent digestive problems. Repeated vomiting or diarrhea, prolonged constipation, blood in the stool, loss of appetite, lethargy or abdominal pain should prompt a call to the veterinarian.

How much?

Start with a small amount. Cats can generally be offered about 1/2 to 1 teaspoon mixed into their food. For dogs, a reasonable starting amount is about 1 teaspoon for small dogs and up to 1 to 2 tablespoons for larger dogs. Because every pet is different, owners should consult their veterinarian about appropriate amounts when using pumpkin for a specific digestive problem. Too much fiber can cause gas, bloating or changes in stool.

How do you serve it?

Mix plain canned pumpkin directly into wet or dry food. Introduce it gradually and watch for changes in the pet’s stool, appetite or behavior. Refrigerate leftover pumpkin after opening according to the product’s directions. Small portions can also be frozen for later use. For many dogs and cats, a little plain pumpkin can be a simple way to add fiber and moisture to the diet. Just remember: Choose 100% pure pumpkin, start small and contact a veterinarian when digestive problems are persistent or severe.

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Understanding rabbit body language Rabbits may be quiet pets, but they have plenty to say. From thumping their feet to leaping into the air, rabbits use body language to communicate excitement, fear, relaxation and even annoyance. One of the most recognizable behaviors is thumping. Rabbits forcefully strike their hind feet against the ground when they sense danger or feel frightened. Pet rabbits may thump in response to an unfamiliar sound, person, animal or sudden movement. Some also thump when they are frustrated or irritated. A binky, on the other hand, is usually a sign of happiness. During a binky, a rabbit jumps into the air and may twist its body, kick its feet or race away afterward. Some binkies are dramatic, while others are little more than a hop and head flick. Rabbits often do this when they are excited, playful and comfortable. Then there is the flop, which can alarm people unfamiliar with rabbits. A rabbit may suddenly fall onto its side and stretch out as though something is wrong. In most cases, the rabbit is simply very relaxed and feels safe enough to let down its guard. Other positions can reveal a rabbit’s mood. A rabbit sitting with its feet tucked beneath its body, sometimes called a “loaf,” is often comfortable but

alert. Stretching out with the back legs extended behind the body is another sign of relaxation. The ears also provide clues. Ears pointed toward a sound can indicate curiosity or alertness, while ears pinned tightly backward along with a tense body may indicate fear or irritation. Because ear position varies among rabbits, owners should consider the animal’s entire posture. Rabbits may nudge people to investigate them, request attention or tell them to move. A rabbit that lowers its head near a trusted person may be asking to be petted. Licking can be a sign of social bonding, while rubbing the chin on people or objects, known as chinning, deposits scent and marks territory. Gentle tooth grinding, sometimes called tooth purring, can indicate contentment. Loud or persistent tooth grinding, particularly when accompanied by a hunched posture, decreased activity or loss of appetite, can be a sign of pain. Digging and chewing are also normal rabbit behaviors. Rabbits are natural diggers, and their continuously growing teeth make chewing necessary. Providing hay, chew toys, tunnels and safe digging opportunities allows them to express these instincts appropriately. Learning a rabbit’s normal habits can also help owners recognize illness. A normally active rabbit that suddenly hides, refuses food, becomes unusually aggressive or stops producing normal fecal pellets should be evaluated promptly by a veterinarian. Once owners learn the signals, rabbits are anything but difficult to read. A thump may signal concern, a binky can express pure excitement and a dramatic flop may simply mean a rabbit feels completely safe at home. The Home News 2026 Pet Supplement | October 8, 2026

What your dog’s poo is telling you

Picking up after your dog may not be the most pleasant part of pet ownership, but what is left in the bag can offer important clues about your dog’s health. Changes in stool can reflect everything from a new treat or minor stomach upset to parasites, digestive disease or other medical problems. Knowing what is normal for your dog and noticing when something changes can help catch trouble early. A healthy dog’s stool is generally brown, firm and formed, but not hard. It should hold its shape when picked up without being dry, crumbly or excessively soft. An occasional abnormal bowel movement is not necessarily cause for alarm, particularly if your dog is otherwise eating, drinking and behaving normally.

lower digestive tract, although causes range from relatively minor irritation to more serious problems. Black, sticky or tar-like stool can indicate digested blood coming from higher in the gastrointestinal tract and should prompt veterinary attention. Yellow, orange, green, gray or unusually pale stool can sometimes result from something a dog ate, but persistent color changes may be associated with digestive, liver, gallbladder or pancreatic problems and should be discussed with a veterinarian.

What else is in there?

Visible worms or small, rice-like segments in stool can be signs of intestinal parasites. Other parasites are microscopic, however, which is why veterinarians may recommend fecal testing even when nothing unusual is visible. Foreign material also deserves attention. Dogs sometimes swallow pieces of toys, fabric, plastic, grass, bones or other objects. If you know or suspect your dog swallowed something that could cause an intestinal blockage, do not wait for it to appear in the stool before contacting a veterinarian.

Know your dog’s normal

Consistency matters

Soft or watery stool can occur after a sudden diet change, eating something unusual, stress or overindulging in treats. Diarrhea that continues, becomes frequent or occurs with vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite or other symptoms warrants a call to your veterinarian. Very hard, dry stool can point to constipation or dehydration. Dogs that repeatedly strain to defecate, seem uncomfortable or cannot pass stool should be evaluated. Mucus can sometimes appear when the colon is irritated. A small amount may accompany a temporary digestive upset, but repeated or excessive mucus should not be ignored.

Pay attention to color

Brown is the usual color of healthy dog stool, while noticeable changes can provide clues about what is happening inside the digestive tract. Bright red blood may indicate bleeding in the October 8, 2026 | homenewspa.com

One unusual poop does not always mean something is wrong. What matters is the bigger picture: how long the change lasts, how often it happens and whether your dog has other symptoms. Contact your veterinarian promptly for significant or persistent blood in the stool, black or tarry stool, repeated vomiting or diarrhea, severe straining, abdominal pain, weakness, dehydration, loss of appetite or major changes in behavior. Puppies, senior dogs and dogs with existing health conditions may need attention sooner. And if your veterinarian asks you to bring a stool sample, do not be embarrassed. That little bag may contain valuable information about your dog’s health. The bottom line: Scoop it, glance at it and pay attention to changes. Your dog’s poop may not be pretty, but it can tell you quite a bit.

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The Home News 2026 Pet Supplement | October 8, 2026

October 8, 2026 | homenewspa.com