How to Stuff a Kong for Maximum Enjoyment For Your Dog

by Glixie Media | Apr 22, 2025 | Animal Behaviour, Dogs, Fun Facts!

How to Stuff a Kong for Maximum Enjoyment

Step 1: Choose the Right Kong

Select a few clean Kong toys that are appropriately sized for the largest dog that might access them. Tip: Small breeds should use medium-sized Kongs for stuffing.

(Find one here: https://kimvet.co.za/brand/kong/)

Step 2: Add a Tantalising Teaser

Drop a small but irresistible treat – such as freeze-dried liver, peanut butter, or cheese – into the tiny hole at the top to spark curiosity.

Step 3: Layer in a Tasty Dessert

Fill about one-third of the Kong’s cavity with crunchy dog treats like biscuits or marrow bites for an added texture and challenge.

Step 4: Pack the Main Course

Stuff the remaining two-thirds with a mixture of canned food or food roll, blended with kibble or food nuggets for a balanced and satisfying meal.

Step 5: Serve an Appetising Starter

Leave a tasty tidbit, like a biscuit or jerky strip, sticking slightly out of the opening. This “easy win” will reward your dog instantly and encourage them to work for the rest.

For an extra challenge, freeze the stuffed Kong before serving!

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Nutrition Guide For Dogs, Based On Your Pet’s Size

by Glixie Media | Apr 22, 2025 | Dogs, Fun Facts!, Hill’s Pet Slimmer Program, Kimberley Veterinary Clinic Group, Pet Weight Loss Clinic Services

When it comes to feeding dogs, their size plays a crucial role in determining their nutritional needs.

Small breeds, such as Chihuahuas and Pomeranians, typically require a diet that is higher in calories and protein relative to their body weight, as they have faster metabolisms and need more energy to sustain their activity levels.

On the other hand, medium-sized dogs like Beagles and Bulldogs benefit from a balanced diet that includes a mix of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates to support their moderate energy levels and overall health. Large breeds, such as Golden Retrievers and Great Danes, require a diet that is lower in calories but rich in essential nutrients to promote healthy growth and prevent obesity, which can lead to joint issues. Additionally, it’s important to consider the life stage of the dog—puppies, adults, and seniors all have different dietary requirements that should be addressed to ensure optimal health and longevity.

By tailoring a dog’s nutrition to their size and life stage, owners can help their furry friends thrive and maintain a healthy weight.

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Mini Adult Dogs

Mini dogs may be small, but they’re tough! High energy, sensitive teeth, and prone to weight gain – they need high-quality, digestible food for optimal health.

Small Breeds (1-10kg)

Little dogs, big energy! Pugs, Shih Tzus, and Dachshunds have higher energy needs and longer lifespans. Choose food that supports their active lives and keeps their picky appetites satisfied.

Medium Breeds (11-25kg)

Just the right size! Huskies, Bull Terriers, and Dalmatians need food packed with energy to support healthy weight, glossy coats, and strong bones.

Large Breeds (26-44kg)

Big dogs, bigger needs! Dobermans, Greyhounds, and Sheepdogs need food that supports joint health and their larger size. Nutrition is key for growth and strength.

Giant Breeds (45kg+)

Meet the giants! Saint Bernards, Mastiffs, and Newfoundlands need strong bones, joints, and the best nutrition. Feeding them doesn’t have to be intimidating.

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5 Cat facts we bet you didn’t know! Mini Tigers at Home

by Glixie Media | Apr 11, 2025 | Animal Behaviour, Cats, Fun Facts!, What’s New

Mini Tigers at Home - 5 Cat facts we bet you didn't know!

#petsupplies #petcare #shoplocal #petlovers #petproducts #smallpets #animalcare

Mini Tigers at Home

Have you ever considered that your domestic cat shares an astonishing 95.6% of its genetic makeup with tigers? This close genetic relationship explains many of their instinctual behaviors, such as stalking, pouncing, and marking their territory, which mirror the actions of their wild relatives. Whether it’s the way they crouch before a leap or the territorial scent marking they engage in, these feline traits are a fascinating reminder of their wild ancestry.

Sweet? No Thanks!

Interestingly, cats are unable to taste sweetness, a trait that sets them apart from humans. Their taste buds have not evolved to appreciate sugary flavors, which means that while we might indulge in desserts, our feline friends have no interest in sweet treats. This unique aspect of their taste perception is a reflection of their carnivorous diet, which is primarily focused on protein rather than carbohydrates.

Night Vision Pros

While cats may struggle with nearsightedness, they possess remarkable peripheral and night vision capabilities that far exceed those of humans. This exceptional vision allows them to detect even the slightest movements in low-light conditions, making them adept hunters during dusk and dawn. Their eyes are specially adapted to gather more light, which is why they can navigate and thrive in the dark, showcasing their evolutionary prowess as nocturnal predators.

Climbing Up Is Easy, Climbing Down…Not So Much

Ascending trees is a breeze for cats, but descending can be quite the challenge! Due to the unique shape of their claws, which are designed to grip surfaces while climbing, felines are unable to navigate downwards headfirst. This means they often have to awkwardly backtrack their way down, making the descent a bit of a clumsy affair.

Jumping Champions

When it comes to jumping, cats are true champions! They possess the remarkable ability to leap as far as six times their own body length in one bound. This incredible agility allows them to land precisely where they intend, showcasing their impressive athleticism and precision in movement. No wonder they always land where they want.

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CAT FIRST AID: CHOKING & CPR

by Glixie Media | Apr 7, 2025 | Animal Behaviour, Cats, Fun Facts!

As cat owners, ensuring the well-being of our furry friends is paramount. In emergencies such as choking, knowing how to respond can mean the difference between life and death.

Here's a step-by-step guide to help you manage choking incidents and perform CPR on your cat if necessary:

1. Clear the Airways

The first and foremost step is to check and clear your cat’s airways:

Open the Cat’s Mouth: Gently pull the tongue forward and inspect for any visible obstructions.

Use Tweezers for Reachable Objects: If something is easily reachable, use tweezers (not fingers!) to remove it.

Avoid Sharp Objects: Never try to remove sharp objects (like needles) or items lodged deep in the throat, as this may push them further down.

Veterinary Assistance: If the obstruction cannot be safely removed, immediately take your cat to the veterinarian.

2. The Heimlich Maneuver

If the airway remains blocked, follow these steps to help free it:

Position the Cat: Place your cat on your lap with its hind legs raised slightly.

Thump between Shoulder Blades: Gently but firmly thump between the shoulder blades to try to dislodge the object.

If this method fails, it’s time to perform the Heimlich maneuver:

Locate the Ribcage: Place your hands behind the ribcage.

Apply Pressure: Press gently but firmly on the abdomen 4-5 times.

Check Again: After several attempts, check if the object is dislodged.

If the cat is still not breathing or is unconscious, you must proceed immediately to CPR.

3. CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)

Before starting CPR, remember to ensure that the airway is clear.

Lay the Cat on Its Side: Start by positioning your cat on its side.

Locate the Heart: Find the heart, which is located just behind the elbow on the chest.

Check for a Pulse: If no pulse is detected, begin compressions:

Chest Compressions: Using the flat of your hand, gently squeeze the chest.

Rescue Breaths: Give four chest compressions followed by two rescue breaths:

– Cover the cat’s nose with your mouth.

– Keep the mouth closed and gently blow into the nose.

IMPORTANT: CALL A VETERINARIAN IMMEDIATELY after performing CPR or if you suspect your cat is in distress!

For more information on ensuring the health and safety of your pet, check out our [online shop](https://kimvet.co.za/online-shop/) or contact us for professional advice [here](https://kimvet.co.za/contact-us/).

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Taking swift action in emergencies can save your cat’s life. Make sure you’re prepared and stay informed!

This blog post effectively combines informative content with actionable steps and maintains engagement through structured formatting, ensuring readers can easily follow the crucial first aid procedures for their cats.

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Dogs in South Africa. Some facts to know!

by Glixie Media | Mar 19, 2025 | Animal Behaviour, Dogs, Fun Facts!, What’s New

South Africa boasts a rich canine history and several unique dog breeds, including the iconic Rhodesian Ridgeback, known for its distinctive ridge of hair, and the Boerboel, a strong and loyal farm dog.

Here’s a more detailed look at some cool facts about dogs in South Africa:

Unique South African Dog Breeds:

• Rhodesian Ridgeback:
This breed, recognized as South Africa’s national dog, is known for its unique ridge of hair growing in the opposite direction on its back.
• Boerboel:
Originally bred to guard farms, Boerboels are known for their strength, loyalty, and protective nature, and are affectionate with their families but wary of strangers.
• African Wild Dog (Lycaon pictus):
While not a domesticated breed, these wild dogs are a fascinating part of South Africa’s canine heritage, known for their striking appearance and cooperative hunting behavior.

Other Interesting Facts:

• Just Nuisance:
This Great Dane was a beloved figure in South Africa, becoming the only dog ever to be officially enlisted in the Royal Navy, serving at HMS Afrikander in Simon’s Town.

Common breeds:
German Shepherd, Boerboel, Ridgeback, and Pit Bull are among the most common breeds in South Africa.

Dogs are popular pets:

Dogs are the most popular pets in South Africa, with large breeds making up 50% of the dog population.

Rhodesian Ridgeback’s origins:
The Rhodesian Ridgeback’s name comes from a unique genetic mutation that led to a strip of hair on the dog’s back to grow in the opposite direction, giving it a distinguished appearance.

African Wild Dog Facts:
• Status: Endangered.
• Population: Estimated 6,600.
• Habitat: Deserts, forests, and grasslands – all parts of the savannah biome.
• Max speed: Up to 44mph

From hunting companions to protectors – the relationship between dogs and humans goes back thousands of years.

Today, one of the most domesticated animals, in many parts of the world the Canis lupus familiaris is a beloved family member and friend we share our lives with.

Here are 10 fascinating facts about our furry companions.

• Dogs can smell diseases such as diabetes and cancer.
• Dogs conduct their “business” in a north south-direction.
• Dogs can smell about 10,000 times better than humans.
• Dogs know when they do not have enough information to solve a problem and actively search for more input.
• Dogs have three eyelids.
• To drink water, dogs plunge their tongue straight into the water, pull it to the rear and shovel the water into their throat.
• The smell in a dog’s urine lets other dogs know if the one who left the message is young or old, male or female, healthy or sick and happy or angry.
• Dogs can see colours, however, their perception of colour resembles that of a person who is colour blind.
• Dogs can estimate the size of another dog by the sound of their growling.
• Sweat ducts in dogs’ paws are activated when it is too hot and helps to keep their body temperature cool. Because of dogs’ “sweaty feet”, they leave wet footprints.

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