Pet Care Center
Filter your search by selecting a pet type.
What's New?
Get the latest pet stories, news, tips and advice right here.
Cat Care
Feature article behaviour and appearance
-
How to Talk to Cats (and Are They Really Listening?)
Learn tips for talking & communicating with your cat, including suggested gestures like blinking, as well as how to tell if they are actually listening.
-
Why Your Cat Likes to Hide in Small Dark Spaces
Discover why cats love to hide in small, dark, remote places in your house like shoe boxes, under the bed, and in the back of the closet.
-
Kitten Teething: Age Timeline, Signs & How You Can Help
Learn the common age timeline of a teething kitten, signs that they are entering the teething phase and how you can help alleviate their discomfort.
-
Why Do Cats Lick Their Paws? Can it Become Excessive?
Learn common reasons why cats lick their paws, as well as signs when it might be excessive (such as hair loss) & what to do if it seems like a problem.
-
Why is My Kitten Crying? (& How to Help Them Stop)
Learn why kittens often cry as newborns, what age it should subside, and how you can help soothe and get them to stop through their first year.
-
Types of Cat Litter & How to Choose the Right One
Sift through our guide to learn about the many different types of cat litter and how to choose the best one for your feline friend.
-
Managing Clingy Cats: Do I Have a Velcro Kitty?
Learn reasons why some cats are excessively clingy, how you can help curtail this behavior, and considerations when potentially adopting a Velcro kitty.
Feature article breed
-
Russian Blue Cat: Facts and Personality Traits | Hill's Pet
Discover the gentle and loving personality of the Russian blue cat. Learn its royal history and find out why it can be a great addition to your family.
-
Siamese Cat Breed - Facts & Personality Traits | Hill's Pet
Learn about the Siamese cat including physical and personality traits, history, and living with one at home.
-
Bombay Cat Breed - Facts & Personality Traits | Hill's Pet
Learn more about your Bombay cat and read about it's various physical characteristics and personality traits.
-
Persian Cat Breed - Facts & Personality Traits | Hill's Pet
Better understand your Persian housecat by learning more about it's physical characteristics and personality traits.
-
Balinese Cat Breed - Facts & Personality Traits | Hill's Pet
Learn about the Balinese cat breed including physical and personality traits, history, and living with one at home.
-
Abyssinian Cat Breed - Information and Personality Traits | Hill's Pet
Among the most popular cat breeds, the Abyssinian is easy to care for, and a joy to have in your home. They’re affectionate cats and love both people and other animals.
-
Manx Cat Breed - Facts & Personality Traits | Hill's Pet
Discover what it's like to live with an Manx cat by learning about its history, personality and physical characteristics.
Feature article health care
-
Why Is My Cat Shaking and Shivering?
Why is my cat shaking? Learn more about what can cause your cat to shake and shiver and when you should pay a visit to your veterinarian.
-
Lymphoma in Cats: What You Need to Know
Learn about lymphoma in cats, including causes, common types, symptoms, treatment options based on prognosis, and prevention tips.
-
Understanding Why My Cat's Stomach Gurgles
If you're a cat parent, you may find yourself saying, "I wonder why my cat's stomach gurgles after they eat." Read on to learn what this gurgling may mean.
-
Cat Life Stages: Providing the Best Care for Your Cat at Any Age
From the kitten stage to the geriatric cat stage, learn the six cat life stages and tips for providing the best care for your cat at any stage of her life.
-
Important Information on Food Allergies & Intolerance in Your Cat
Learn about the warning signs, symptoms, and treatments of pet food allergies and food intolerance in cats and the affect on your cat's health and well-being.
-
How to Identify & Remove a Tick From a Cat
Worried that your cat may have come in contact with ticks? Learn how to identify a tick bite and steps for safely removing a tick from your cat.
-
Cat Ear Infections: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment & Prevention
Learn about common causes, signs & symptoms, and treatment of a cat ear infection, as well as tips for how to prevent them from happening.
Feature article new pet parent
-
Tips for Socialising Your Kitten with People & Other Pets
Socializing your kitten ensures she becomes a cat that relates well to people and is a friend and companion.
-
Leaving a Cat Home Alone: How Long is Safe?
Concerned about leaving a cat home alone? Considering if she's a kitten or senior cat and her relationship with you can help you decide how long is safe.
-
Charting Your Kitty's Development
Follow this timeline to learn the natural progression of your kitten's development, including when to expect her to start walking & needing vaccines.
-
Tips for being a purrfect new cat parent
Whether you just adopted your new cat from a local shelter, a breeder or a store, there's nothing better than bringing them home.
-
Six Ways to Socialise Your New Cat
Socialising a cat into a new home takes patience and love. Discover these cat socialisation tips to help an adopted cat adjust to her family.
-
Adopting an Adult Cat | Hill's Pet
Understand how adopting an adult cat from a shelter is different than adopting a cat, and what to expect when you bring her home for the first time.
-
The pick of the litter | Hill's Pet
Bringing how a kitten is a long-term commitment. Learn how to make the right choice when picking one out of a litter.
Feature article nutrition and feeding
-
Healthy Homemade Cat Treat Recipes
Learn how to make homemade cat treats that are healthy for your pet with this recipe from Hills Pet Nutrition.
-
Healthy Homemade Cat Treat Recipes
Learn how to make homemade cat treats that are healthy for your pet with this recipe from Hills Pet Nutrition.
-
Cats & Tuna: Is it Safe for Them?
While cats can have a strong attraction to tuna, learn details on whether tuna offers proper nutrition and is safe for them to eat.
-
Can Cats Eat Cheese?
The slight crinkle of a cheese wrapper can send cats flying into the kitchen in search of the salty treat, but can cats eat cheese? Here's the scoop on whether cats and cheese are a good combination.
-
3 Steps to Transitioning Your Cat to a New Pet Food
Switching cat foods can be challenging but it doesn’t have to be. Cats should gradually transition to a new cat food. Follow these tips to help ensure success.
-
Meal Feeding vs. Free Feeding Cats: What's Best?
Learn about the 3 common ways you can feed your cat as well as the advantages and disadvantages for each.
-
Is Chocolate Bad for Cats?
Chocolate is known to be poisonous for dogs, but it can also be toxic for cats. Learn why chocolate is bad for cats & what to do if she's eaten it.
Feature article play and exercise
-
When Does a Cat's Play Aggression Cross the Line?
Learn tips for identifying overly aggressive behavior & play tendancies in cats, as well as how to handle aggressive behavior your cat may be displaying.
-
Cat Food Puzzles: How They Benefit Your Cat
Cat food puzzles let your feline channel their hunter-gatherer side and can also help with weight management. Learn about different types & benefits.
-
How to Put On a Cat Harness
Discover which harness style is best for your feline friend and learn how to put on a cat harness. Take your kitty for a stroll knowing they're secure.
-
How to Make DIY Cat Shelves
As a pet parent, you already know that cats rule the household, so why not give them a high perch from which to survey their land? DIY cat shelves are an excellent way to customize your kitty's kingdom, and there are so many cat wall ideas that you can use to create their dream domain.
-
5 New Fun Things to Do With Your Cat
Looking for way to enrich playtime for your kitty? Discover fun new cat activities, such as cat apps, that can keep your furry friend occupied for hours.
-
Walking a Cat: Should You Take Your Kitty for a Stroll?
Wondering if your can take your cat for a walk? Learn how to decide if she's suitable for the outdoors and an effective method for taking her on a stroll.
-
Playing with Your Cat on a Budget: 7 Totally Free Games
Check out these seven cheap and easy games to play with cats, often using items you already have around the house.
Feature article routine care
-
How to Care for Cat Paw Pads
Learn why it's important to keep your cat's paw pads clean and healthy, including household items you can use to keep her paws moisturized.
-
Types of Cat Litter & How to Choose the Right One
Sift through our guide to learn about the many different types of cat litter and how to choose the best one for your feline friend.
-
How to Clean Cats Ears: A Comprehensive Guide
Learn helpful tips for cleaning your cat's ears, from the supplies you'll need to step-by-step instructions on how to clean them safely and easily.
-
Essential Oils for Cats: Are They Safe?
Wondering if you can use essential oils for cats? Learn all about essential oils and if there are any that are actually safe for your cat.
-
Keeping Your Cat Hydrated if She's Not Drinking Water
Learn why your cat is drinking less water than she used to, how much she should be drinking, and how to recognize and prevent her from getting dehydrated.
-
Senior Cat Problems: What You Should Know About Aging Cats
Learn the signs of aging in cats and common senior cat health problems, as well as their special needs and how to care for aging & senior cats.
-
Cat Travel Checklist for Going on Holiday with Your Cat
Going on vacation? Use this cat travel checklist to make sure you've got all her important supplies, such as food, toys & her vet info, for your trip.
Feature article tools and resources
-
Do Cats Really Have Nine Lives?
Learn all about the ancient proverb of cats having nine lives, including its origins & where it came from, its meaning, and why the number nine was chosen.
-
A Guide for Choosing the Best Cat Carrier
With so many options, finding the best cat carrier for your furry friend can feel overwhelming. Should it be soft-sided or hard-sided and top-loading or front-loading? And what's the best cat carrier for difficult cats?
-
Tips for Creating Your Cat's Own Social Media Account | Hill's Pet
Are you that person who floods your connections' news feeds with photos of your cat on social media?
-
Cat Life Hacks: Making Life Easier for You and Your Cat
Has your cat care routine gotten stale? Spice it up with these helpful cat life hacks, including tips to help manage cat hair, scratching & litter boxes.
-
Fun DIY Beds for Your Cat
Learn how to create four different DIY cat beds that will provide your furry friend with a cozy space of her own & won't break your bank!
-
Five tips to stop cats from scratching up the furniture | Hill's Pet
Learn how to build an easy, homemade DIY cat scratching post using items around your house! She'll get exercise and you won't get a ruined staircase.
-
Common Cat Myths & Misconceptions: Get the Feline Facts - Hill's Pet
Learn about common cat myths and misconceptions. With all the misinformation available online about cats, it's time you got the true feline facts.
Feature article training
-
How to Teach a Cat to Fetch | Hill's Pet
Can my cat play fetch? Yes, it's possible! Learn an effective training method for teaching your cat to fetch, including what verbal cues to use.
-
Cat Jumping? How to Keep Her Paws on the Ground
Learn why cats like to jump and be up high, as well as how to provide her with alternative options for jumping off your countertops and furniture.
-
Kitten Proofing Your Home with 10 Easy-to-Follow Tips
Discover how kitten proofing your home will make your new cat feel safe and happy, while making you feel like a confident new pet parent.
-
Cat Training: How to Train Your Cat the Easy Way
When learning how to train your cat, you'll start with very basic first steps that both reward good behavior and discourage the bad.
-
Toilet training your kitten | Hill's Pet
Use these easy-to-follow do's and don'ts while training your kitten to use the litter box with the best success.
-
Techniques for Obedience Training Your Kitten
Learn how to train your kitten how to obey your commands without resorting to punishments with our obedience training tips.
-
Are cats trainable? | Hill's Pet
With proper understanding and patience, cats can be trained. Learn how to properly train your new cat or kitten with these easy-to-follow tips.
Dog Care
Feature article behaviour and appearance
-
Does My Dog Like to be Petted?
Does your dog really like to be petted? Learn the best spots to pet a dog, especially for new puppy owners, as well as areas to avoid when petting.
-
My Dog Sleeps All Day: Is That Normal?
Concerned that your dog is sleeping all day? Learn how many hours dogs should be sleeping and why things like age have an impact on his sleeping habits.
-
The Science Behind Your Dog and His Behaviour
Discover how the field of dog science is giving us more and more insights into the inner workings of our furry best friends.
-
Why does my dog....? Interpreting common dog behaviours
Learn what types of dog behavior mean for your best buddy's health and well-being. Once you notice his signals and moods, you'll know how to help him.
-
What's My Dog Doing When I'm Not Home?
Who knows what dogs do when you're not home? Here are some of the most common activities your pet will take part in while you're away.
-
All About Dog Zoomies!
Learn what dog zoomies are and why your dog gets them after a bath, as well as how to keep your pup from getting too crazy when they get excited.
-
Is My Dog Mad at Me?
Learn the truth about dogs and anger, common behaviors that are mistaken as anger, and how to better interpret and respond to times when they act out.
Feature article breed
-
Boxer Dog Breed - Information about Boxer Dogs | Hill's Pet
An intelligent, loyal pet, the boxer has a high need for companionship and exercise. They are not happy when regularly left home alone.
-
Labrador Retriever Dog Breed - Information about Labrador Retriever Dogs | Hill's Pet
The Labrador possesses numerous endearing traits —- intelligence, easy to train and being an excellent family companion. Labrador retrievers are sturdy, solid dogs. Find more dog breeds and dog care information at Hillspet.co.za
-
Doberman Dog Breed - Information and Personality Traits | Hill's Pet
Doberman pinschers are powerful, energetic dogs that need plenty of exercise. If not exercised, they are likely to become irritable or even aggressive. Find more dog breeds and dog care information at Hillspet.co.za.
-
Jack Russell Terrier Dog Breed - Information about Jack Russell Terrier Dogs | Hill's Pet
Consider the personality traits of the Jack Russell terrier as this breed is not for everyone. The breed has a compact, muscular body. Find more dog breeds and dog care information at Hillspet.co.za
-
Afghan Hound Dog Breed - Information about Afghan Hound Dogs | Hill's Pet
An independent, strong-willed dog, the Afghan can be downright standoffish, but also quiet and clownish when the mood strikes. The male Afghan hound stands some 27 inches tall, the female about 25 inches. Afghans generally weigh between 50 and 60 pounds
-
Airedale Terrier Dog Breed - Information about Airedale Terrier Dogs | Hill's Pet
An intelligent, tough dog, the Airedale terrier tolerates pets it grows up with and generally gets along well with other dogs and children.
-
English Springer Spaniel Dog Breed - Facts and Traits | Hill's Pet
A hardy, energetic and fairly intelligent dog, the English springer spaniel is outgoing and friendly, but still should have socialization and training from the beginning. Find more dog breeds and dog care information at Hillspet.co.za.
Feature article health care
-
Avoiding joint problem flare-ups can be as easy as A-B-C!
Avoiding joint problem flare-ups can be as easy as A-B-C!
-
Skin Cancer in Dogs: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Early Detection
Learn what skin cancer in a dog looks like, how its diagnosed, potential treatment options, and the importance of early detection.
-
Mast Cell Tumours in Dogs: Causes, Appearance, Treatment & More
Learn more about mast cell tumors in dogs, including causes, clinical signs & appearance, treatment options and life exectancy after diagnosis.
-
Why Is My Dog Foaming at the Mouth?
Why is my dog foaming at the mouth? Learn more about what may be causing your pup to foam from the mouth.
-
8 Common Health Problems in Senior Dogs
Learn about the most common health problems in senior dogs, such as hearing & vision loss, joint problems and dementia, and treatment options.
-
Understanding & Treating Dehydration in Dogs
Dehydration in dogs can be a life threatening condition. Learn more about the causes, signs, treatments and how to prevent dehydration.
-
Common Dog Surgery Questions: Procedures, Anaesthesia, Rehab & More
The idea of surgery on a dog may be scary, but it can have potentially life-saving effects. Learn some common questions pet parents have about surgeries.
Feature article new pet parent
-
Tips for Leaving Your New Dog Home Alone
Check out these helpful tips on how to housebreak your dog and feel confident in leaving them alone while you're at work.
-
3 Steps to Prepare Your Apartment For a Dog
Learn tips to think about if you're considering a dog for apartment living, including ideal breeds/characteristics & how to make your space dog-friendly.
-
10 Tips to Prepare for Adopting a Dog
Adopting a dog can be overwhelming if you simply don't know where to begin. Learn about ten things you should do to ensure a smooth, and fun, transition.
-
Puppies don't come with a set of instructions
Ensure that you're meeting all of your new puppy's needs by learning typical puppy behaviors in the home.
-
What to Expect When Adopting a Three-Legged Pet
Learn common concerns from pet parents considering adopting a three-legged pet, including info about mobility, preparing your home, & long-term care.
-
Helping a New Dog's Anxiety After Coming Home
Anxiety can be a problem for dogs, especially ones new to your family. Learn how common anxiety symptoms like diarrhea can happen & how to help them relax.
-
My Child Wants a Puppy... What Do I Do?
While your child may beg for a puppy, pet ownership is a big responsibility. Learn the best age to get a puppy and tips for talking to your child about it.
Feature article nutrition and feeding
-
Human Foods That Are Dangerous for Your Dog
Read to learn about 5 human foods that are toxic to dogs. Learn their effects on a dog's health and what to do if they accidentally eat one of these foods.
-
A few ground rules
Learn how to help your puppy learn good behaviors by starting with proper table manners. Follow these helpful feeding tips.
-
Feeding your puppy
Find the ideal feeding plan for your puppy with Hill's Pet puppy foods
-
The risks of excessive salt intake
Understand the importance of salt in your dog's diet, as well as the risks associated with excessive salt intake.
-
How and when to feed your Dog?
It's important to feed your dog the right amount of food at proper intervals. Find out what feeding method is best for your dog.
-
Balanced Dog Foods & When to Change Them
Nutrition is one of the most important components of keeping your dog healthy, so choosing a well-balanced dog food full of nutrients is key. Learn more.
-
Tips & Methods for Switching Dog Foods
As your puppy grows, its nutritional needs will change. Learn how to properly transition your dog to a new dog food at each stage of life.
Feature article play and exercise
-
The Importance of Exercise for Your Puppy
Making sure your new puppy gets not only enough exercise, but the right exercise is an important start toward a long, healthy life.
-
A Quick and Easy Guide to Cleaning Dog Toys
Discover tips for cleaning your dog's favorite toys (both plush & chew toys) and why keeping them clean can be important for their health.
-
3 Easy-to-Make DIY Enrichment Toys for Dogs
Learn how puzzles and games can benefit your pooch, then discover how to make three different DIY enrichment toys for dogs.
-
3 Ideas for Exercising Older Dogs
Exercising older dogs is the best way to ensure their health, happiness and longevity. Here are three ways to get your pet exercise as they age.
-
How to Keep Dogs Safe (and Cool) in Summer Weather
Learning how to keep a dog cool in summer will ensure that they're enjoying the warmer weather just as much as you — safely! Let's take a look at some health tips, fun things to do with your dog in the summer and celebration ideas.
-
5 Ideas for Indoor Exercise for Dogs
Learn how to keep your dog moving with some indoor exercise tips. If you're stuck inside, help them beat cabin fever and keep their body and mind active.
-
Hiring a Dog Walker: Is It the Right Decision for You?
Learn how dog walkers can be a great way to get your dog proper exercise, especially if your busy schedule or physical limitations don't allow it.
Feature article routine care
-
Why Do Dogs Hate Baths? (& Tips for Bathing a Scared Dog)
Learn why some dogs hate baths so much, as well as the importance of bathing and tips for comforting a scared dog when it's time to take a bath.
-
Safety Tips for Dogs & Open Car Windows
Your dog may love to stick his head out of an open car window, but learn why this behavior can be dangerous and how to keep your pooch safe on car rides.
-
How Often Should You Bathe Your Dog?
You know that bathing your dog is important, but how often should you do it? Learn the right dog bath frequency, based on their breed, lifestyle & health.
-
Cleaning Your Dog's Paws: Tips for Success
Learn tips to help you clean your dog's paws, from removing stray debris to trimming the hair between their paw pads, and how often you should clean them.
-
How to Make Vet Visits Less Scary for Your Dog
Is your dog scared of vet appointments? Learn tips for calming his anxiety and taking the stress out of his trip to the veterinarian.
-
Clipping Dog Nails for Puppy Pedicures
Learn the basics for safely trimming your dog's nails at home, including tools you'll need and the technique for making trimming painless and easy.
-
My Dog is Getting Old: What Accessories Does He Need?
Check out this list of accessories you should consider getting for your senior dog to help care for him in his golden years.
Feature article tools and resources
-
How to Get Dog Pee Smell Out of Carpet
Discover the best tips & tricks for removing pee stains and odor from carpet, including stains that are recent vs. those that have set in for some time.
-
Finding A Lost Dog: What Should You Do?
Learn what to do if you find a lost dog, including important considerations for approaching the dog and how to keep both you and the dog safe.
-
5 Signs You Have a Spoiled Dog
Most pet parents spoil their pets in their own way, whether with paw pedicures, extra cuddles or extra treats. And having a spoiled dog isn't necessarily a bad thing — it's a sign that you love your pet. It only becomes a problem if it starts to affect their health, their behaviour or your wallet.
-
Common Dog Sayings and Their Origins
We've all heard — and said — the many dog sayings like, "dog days of summer" or "barking up the wrong tree." What do they mean and where do they come from?
-
Dealing With a Dog Peeing on the Lawn
Discover why dead spots in your green lawn could be caused by dog urine, and learn steps you can take for getting your lawn (& dog) back into shape.
-
People with allergies and dogs
Learn how you can still enjoy the benefits of a canine companion despite dog allergies. Discover how you can help manage your allergies around dogs.
Feature article training
-
Help! My Dog Won't Go Outside When It's Raining
Discover reasons why dogs might be afraid to go outside in the rain, including issues with relieving themselves while it's raining, and how you can help.
-
Training Tips: Dog Impulse Control
Discover strategies for teaching your dog impulse control, including training them not to rush the door and how to curtail food grabbing.
-
Teaching an Old Dog New Tricks: A Guide for Senior Training
Is teaching an old dog new tricks really impossible? Discover the truth about this cliche and learn tips for successfully training your senior dog.
-
Crate Training an Older Dog: What You Need to Know
Learn reasons why crate training an older dog might be a good idea, as well as an effective method for getting him comfortable and used to his new crate.
-
Training Two Puppies: How to Succeed
Learn how to train two puppies at once with these tips. It's a challenging undertaking, but possible with hard work and love.
-
The Science Behind a Dog IQ Test
Curious to know how smart your dog is? Learn about the different types of dog intelligence and see how trainable he is with an IQ test.
-
Five Most Intelligent Dog Breeds
Learn more about the five most highly considered intelligent dog breeds and what makes them so smart.
