Amherst Veterinary Hospital

As the weather gets warmer, we often have pet parents ask us what is considered normal in terms of their pets panting. Anything under 30 breaths per minute is considered normal, anything above 35 may be a cause for concern and is worth contacting us at (416) 261-3322.

Honestly… they might be onto something 😌 Whether it’s saying no to chaos, no to sharing boxes, or no to anything that doesn’t pass their vibe check, cats set boundaries and stick to them.

👍 Like this if your cat lives by this rule
📲 Share this with someone whose cat says “no” to everything

Polydactyl cats are born with extra toes, most often on their front paws. It’s a genetic trait and is usually completely harmless, just an extra dose of cute. That said, those extra toes can come with a few care considerations. More toes means more nails to trim, and sometimes they grow at different angles or are easier to snag if not maintained. Most polydactyl cats live totally normal, healthy lives, but regular paw checks and nail trims are important to keep them comfortable.

Dogs experience the world through scent in a way we can’t fully imagine. They have up to 300 million scent receptors, compared to about 6 million in humans, which means smells carry much more information for them.

What seems gross to us is often fascinating and informative to them. It’s completely normal behavior, even if it makes us question their choices.

There’s just something about walking through the door and being greeted with those little purrs. It instantly makes everything feel okay again.

👍 Like this if you agree
📲 Share this with someone who loves coming home to their cat

We’re here for them, always: (416) 261-3322

On the couch. In the car. Somehow in your coffee. It’s just part of loving them 🤍 Like if you agree!

Names that are short and easy to recognize tend to work best. Pets respond more quickly to one- or two-syllable names with clear sounds, especially when they don’t resemble common commands. Most importantly, choose something you’ll love saying every day.

📌 Save this list for later! And share your favorite names in the comments below!

To your cat… it’s actually a compliment! Cats groom the ones they trust. It can also be a way to bond, mark you with their scent, or just show a little love (in their own… chaotic way).

If it ever becomes excessive or obsessive, it could be a sign of stress or something medical, so keep an eye on it.

💧 Is your dog drinking enough water? A good rule of thumb: about 1 oz per pound of body weight daily. But things like heat, activity, and diet can change that! Noticing big changes in thirst? That can be a sign something’s up. Let’s check it out: (416) 261-3322

Cats typically need about 3.5–4.5 oz per 5 lbs of body weight daily but many don’t drink enough on their own. Water fountains, wet food, and multiple bowls can help!

If you notice changes in drinking habits, don’t ignore it. Call us: (416) 261-3322.