Facts about the animal kingdom

We all know how therapeutic music can be and using this form of therapy for cats could be a no-brainer for some, but do cats like music? Thanks to numerous studies and scientific experiments, it’s safe to say that some cats enjoy specific types of music. However, understanding cat senses and cat hearing...

The North Pole is one of the most mysterious and inhospitable places on planet Earth. The Arctic North Pole, situated in the Northern hemisphere, is known for its extreme weather, climate and incredibly diverse fauna and flora. But which animals make up this full list of arctic animals living in the North...

Animals in the natural world have an incredible range of characteristics. Observing them is why we are all so hooked on nature documentaries. But there is something about animals with big eyes which sets them apart. The expression large eyes give to certain animals is invariably cute, although this is...

Dogs, like all animal species, have a different way of expressing themselves. Dogs use specific body language and vocal sounds to communicate their mood and feelings. As dog tutors, it is important to both understand and respect canine nature in order to learn to communicate better with our furry friends....

It's not always easy to tell the difference between a bunny vs. a hare if we catch one running across a meadow. Even up close their similarities are stark. In many cases, we have to look at the taxonomic classification of these two species to see how they differentiate. Although are rabbits and hares are...

Puppies, as with human babies, do not have any teeth at birth. Eventually newborn puppies will develop one or two deciduous teeth (also known as milk teeth) which are only partly developed and temporary. During breastfeeding, puppies will exclusively suckle from their mother's breast and don't require...

Australia, as you probably already know, is rich with incredible fauna. From the famous Kangaroo to dingoes to freshwater crocodiles, Australia’s animal world is incredibly diverse! Did you know that many Australian animals, having evolved in an environment devoid of predators, are extremely confident despite...

There are currently 8 different types of bear species in the world. We use the word ‘currently’ for the sad reason that some species are no longer with us and others have dwindling populations. Part of the reason for this is due to the complex relationship bears have with their environment. These environments...

In recent years, the definition of ‘ungulate’ has been up for debate. The debate centers around which animals should be categorized under this term as it is a word applicable to a diverse range of mammals. A common ancestor is believed to link the animals together, but some zoologists and taxonomists disagree...

Puppy dogs are particularly sensitive and vulnerable animals. At birth, they can be completely dependent on their mothers. They require their mother to feed them, keep them warm and even stimulate defecation. Part of the reason is because dogs are altrical animals, meaning they are unable to move around...

Although it is not used much outside of scientific language, we humans are part of the primate order. As one of the great apes, we have relatives in the ape world, some more distant than others. It is the chimpanzee which is considered our closest ‘cousin’, so it is understandable we should share some characteristics...

Many people may think than an ox and a bull are animals of two distinct species. This is not the case since both are actually type of cattle. The difference between oxen and bulls lies in their use, as well as their reproductive state. While they may not seem connected, their ability to reproduce indirectly...

When our dog wants to lay their head on us, it is almost impossible to resist. Even when we are busy, the expression of closeness means we don't want to deny it. There is good reason why we enjoy our dog laying our head on us. As an expression of the bond between us, it can help reduce stress and improve...

Sharks are a group of chondrichthyan fish which means they are cartilaginous. In turn, this means they have cartilage instead of bone. This is something you might find a little surprising considering some sharks can be so huge, but they manage to get by alright. Included in this group of fish are rays,...

The smallest bird in the world is the bee hummingbird. While not much bigger than some beetles or other insects, the bee hummingbird is still very much part of the bird family. Their small size doesn't mean they can't engage in feeding, reproducing and social behaviors as any other bird might. They just...

People have an innate tendency to humanize their cat’s behavior. Many affirm that cats love us when a cat sits calmly on our lap and purrs when we pet them. And if a cat bites or ignores us completely, it’s a natural assumption to believe that our cat hates us. But is this a fair analysis? Are you wondering...

Are you wondering what cat headbutting means? does your cat rub its head against you and you don’t know why? Cats are enigmatic creatures and can prove to be a mystery to their human companions. They tend to be really sleepy, emit interesting sounds and purrs and do things that are sometimes inexplicable,...

Our responsibility when adopting a dog is feeding, watering and caring for their basic needs. Our joy when living with a dog is getting to give them all the love they deserve. This means pampering when we can, giving them plenty of caresses and petting them like crazy. Fortunately, for most dogs, this is...

The slow movement of the sloth is where they derive their name, first being used in English in the early 17th century[1]. Since then they have captivated animal lovers across the world. Their slowness also connotes gentleness and it is hard to argue the docile grin they display isn't one of the most endearing...

We might stereotype people who watch funny cat videos as people who are easily distracted or who don't have enough taste to do something more productive, but we all know it's not true. Cat videos are for all. This is partly because there are many different types of cat videos. Some are boring and inane....

Black cats, perhaps more than any other type of cat, evoke such a response in we humans. Culturally, black cats have appeared in folk tales, art, films, internet memes and much more. This is not to say that the image of a black cat means to same to all cultures. Some see black cats as ominous figures,...

A cat’s whiskers, otherwise known as vibrissae, are incredibly interesting touch receptors. These sensory tools help cats maneuver in the dark or in threatening situations. Are you wondering, why are my cat’s whiskers so long? or whether or not cat whiskers fall out? if so, you’ve come to the right place....

Cats have a very well develop sense of smell. It is believed they have between 45 and 200 million olfactory receptors. They use these receptors to pick up on aromas of even the smallest concentration within their environment. The privileged nose of felines means they use it as an important tool to find...

Not counting the almost unlimited possibilities for mixed breed dogs, there are over 300 officially recognized dog breeds across the world. Each dog within these different breeds is an individual with a personality influenced by many factors. How obedient any dog will be is informed most by their socialization...

Undoubtedly, one of the best things about being a dog tutor is that we never really feel alone. In fact, sometimes it may feel as if we are constantly being watched by our furry best friends, who’s eyes seem to follow us everywhere. Have you ever noticed that your dog stares at you constantly, sometimes...

We know that adopting a cat, regardless of breed, color, sex or age, is an act of pure love. In addition, cat adoption gives us the opportunity to live with a charming, caring and beautiful animal. How often have you been genuinely surprised by the skills and abilities that your cat has presented? There...

There's a reason why dogs don't normally wear shoes. The soles of their feet are durable enough for them to walk across different terrain. If we were to go out in the snow without shoes, we wouldn't last very long. Huskies somehow manage to trek across snowy terrain on their paws alone. And yet, a dog's...

There are no tricks to force a bitch accept being mounted. Animals act according to experience, learning and ethology. If your dog does not want to do something, they should never be forced. Their nature should be respected and every animal will act in their own time. We must be attentive to the behavior...

Categorizing nature is a worthwhile endeavor. It allows us to see the interconnectedness of all nature and helps us to understand not only where we came from, but where we might be going. It engenders respect for all living beings. Categorization is also not easy and sometimes nature throws a spanner in...

Because of their adorable appearance and their restless nature, hamsters often attract attention and arouse a lot of curiosity, especially among children. However, it is very important to inform yourself about everything you need to know about hamsters before adopting one. Once all the important hamster...

Cats have a reputation of being frightened easily. So much so it has lead to the phrase ‘scaredy-cat’. However, some of the things that scare cats the most might be something you haven't considered before. You may be unaware you have been scaring them which has lead to cat anxiety. This is why AnimalWised...

You’ve probably noticed that your dog loves to sleep in a specific position. But have you every wondered what the meaning of this dog sleeping position is? Firstly, it is important to remember that an adequate amount of good sleep is necessary for a dog’s well-being. Therefore, we suggest respecting your...

During the embryonic development of any animal, crucial processes are carried out so that the new individual can form correctly. Any failure, corruption or error during this process can cause serious damage to the progeny, including death of the unborn embryo. The embryo is the early stage of the development...

Did you know that all living beings have origins which are linked to our aquatic environment? Throughout evolutionary history, mammals have been changing and adapting to conditions on the earth’s surface. This is until, several million years ago, some of these animals returned to submerge themselves...

Honey bees are mostly grouped in the genus Apis. However, within the family Apinae are stingless bees, part of the Meliponini tribe. These bees are different from honey bees, producing less abundant and more liquid-based honey. This type of honey, produced by stingless bees, is traditionally used more for...

Did you know that the world’s oldest cat reached up to 30 years old? Scooter was a tomcat and his life totaled to about 136 human years when calculated. As extraordinary as this sounds, a cat that has received all necessary care can in fact experience extraordinary longevity. Many cat carers always...

All living beings need to adapt to their environment to survive. These environments are as wide ranging as life itself, whether underwater, above ground or even in the body of another living being. Helping to better understand these types of adaptations, we can group them as either physiological, structural...

It is important to know that if your dog is urinating where it eats, it is considered an unequivocal symptom of a problem. The act of a dog peeing beside or on food can be due to many causes and can manifest in dogs of all ages. In this AnimalWised article we will be discussing some possible causes...

Elephants are among the largest animals in the world. Tall, heavy, majestic and with huge ears, these animals carry imposing horns and it proves difficult for them to go unnoticed. But, have you ever wondered where elephants live? Learn a little more about these magnificent mammals, their distribution,...

If you share your home with a cat, you will be privy to a whole host of seemingly odd behaviors. Lying on their back an exposing their belly to you is just one of them. What is even stranger is that they do this, but then attack you like a jackrabbit if you try to pet their stomach. Adding to the confusion...

Many guardians wonder if their cats like kisses or if this kind of display of affection is uncomfortable for felines. Unfortunately, many others do not make this consideration. Instead they kiss and cuddle their kittens without considering their comfort and tolerance levels. It's important to remember that...

Transgenic animals are animals that have been cloned. The medical and biotechnological uses of animal cloning are almost innumerable, as many diseases have been eradicated thanks to the production of these transgenic animals. Due to the controversial concept of cloning and scientific testing on animals,...

Fish experience reproduction in one of two ways. These processes include fertilization inside or outside the body. Fish are either ovoviviparous, viviparous or oviparous. Additionally, it is important to note that reproduction can also change according to the fish’s environment, specifically if it lives in...

Of course, there are many reasons why a cat might cry, mewl or yowl. Each circumstance needs to be considered and the well-being, health and behavioral characteristics of the cat will help us to determine why your cat is crying al the time. However, there are some general reasons and common situations...

The reasons why cats run away from their poop can be due to instinct, but it is also possible they do so because of a problem in the home. For this reason, when a cat has a zoomie out of the litter box, it doesn't necessarily mean there is a problem, but we have to determine the cause in case there is...

It is common for your dog to always want to sleep next to you in bed or simply in the same room. Although not all dogs will do so, this behavior is related to their canine nature. Being social animals, wanting to sleep next to their guardians is a way to encourage our bond and feel secure. It is a behavior...

All foxes belong to the Canidae family. Foxes are closely related to other canids, such as: dogs, jackals or wolves. Their morphology and appearance has adapted itself to their significant environments. There are approximately 13 ‘‘true’’ fox species. If you want to know more about the types of foxes that exist,...

In nature there are several reproductive strategies one of them being oviparous. You should know that there are many animals which follow this reproductive path, these animals also appeared much earlier in evolutionary history than viviparous animals. If you want to know what oviparous animals are, find...

Cats use their bodies to communicate with us, other animals and their environment. Thanks to their postures and facial expressions, our felines are able to transmit their state of mind and perceptions about their environment. By understanding your cat’s postures and expressions, you will not only better...

When it comes to choosing a toy or a dog training tool for your dog, it is important to take into account which colors are the most striking for dogs. In this way, you can ensure that your dog can distinguish toys from other objects, include floors. In this AnimalWised article we will be discussing...