Mental Floss

PETS

The DOG 6 will make you worry less about your dog‘s wellbeing.

Tractive‘s GPS tracker offers real-time tracking, health monitoring, and safety features for dog owners.

A dog and his favorite toy.

Fido’s fascination stems from a unique mix of instinct and happenstance.

These are the cities for those who can‘t live without cats.

Cat lovers, take note: Here‘s a list of the most feline-friendly cities worldwide.

No booties required.

If you dread wrangling your pet into their winter booties, a swab of petroleum jelly can protect their paws from snow, ice, and salt in a pinch.

Here‘s how to keep your canine clean and happy.

The answer varies based on your pet‘s coat, activity, and skin type.

A Danish-Swedish farmdog reacts excitedly to the news it’s now AKC-approved.

The yodeling working dog can now vie for Best in Show honors.

A Scottish Fold.

People tend to know a bit about the history of popular dog breeds, but cat breeds are just as unique and interesting.

The Comers received the best Christmas gift.

When Brooke Comer received a Ring notification at 2:30 a.m., she didn’t expect to see her lost dog.

A head bonk is one of the biggest signs of affection from cats.

They do it because they love you.

Brrrrr.

Dogs have built-in fur coats, but that doesn’t mean they don’t get chilly during their winter walks.

“Treat” is probably one of the more popular buttons.

According to viral videos on TikTok and Instagram, pet dogs are expressing their demands using button boards instead of barking. But is the communication legit?

The bestest boy deserves the best toys.

Protect your pets from harmful pathogens by washing their toys properly.

Cats become royalty at the Shanghai Museum.

The Shanghai Museum‘s “Meowseum Nights” allowed cats to witness their history.

Kiss your pets under some artificial mistletoe.

Traditional Christmas plants like poinsettias, holly, and mistletoe can be dangerous for pets.

English bulldog today and English bulldog circa 1930

These breeds aren’t what they used to be.

This cat is definitely hatching a plan to get someone to open the door.

You may have no choice but to close a door—much to your cat’s disappointment. Here are some ways you can make this undesirable situation slightly more tolerable.

You can avoid a situation like this.

Pets are a welcome part of the holidays, but a little care is needed to make sure they don't have problems with your decorations.

Hair is not a snack.

If your cat chews your hair, don’t worry—he or she probably isn’t trying to eat you.

Safety matters.

There are several important factors to take into consideration. And if your dog does wear a collar, you need to make sure it fits well and is safe.

So cute.

There are several reasons why cats have this adorable habit.

His name is probably not actually Fido.

“Fido” is a name that has become synonymous with all things dog. But where did the name come from?

Some states are more obsessed with dogs and cats than others. Find out if yours is on the list.

Find out which states are most preoccupied with their pets.

New Yorkers might be able to take days off to care for their sick pets.

Tired of lying to your boss when you need to take time off to bring Fluffy or Fido to the vet? A new bill could change things for you.

Puppy kisses

Your dog’s motivations for licking you range from adorable to disgusting.