Good news‚ fans of witnessing astronomical events without being obliterated by them: Potentially hazardous asteroid 2013 NK4 is making a close approach this week‚ and you can view it as it flies past.The asteroid‚ first discovered in 2013 by the Siding Spring Survey‚ is between 400 and 1‚000 meters (1‚300 and 3‚280 feet) across. At such a size‚ it is classed as a &;quot;potentially hazardous&;quot; near Earth object by NASA‚ given the amount of damage it and other bodies like it could do if they were to collide with Earth.So far‚ astronomers have been able to predict the orbits of known objects up to about 100 years in the future. The good news is that &;quot;no known asteroid larger than 140 meters in size has a significant chance to hit Earth for the next 100 years‚&;quot; according to NASA.Though we are discovering new objects all the time – sometimes just before they hit – another method has found that we should be safe for the next 1‚000 years from the objects we do know about.2013 NK4‚ for example‚ made its closest approach on Monday‚ harmlessly passing our planet by more than eight times the distance to the Moon‚ just as astrophysicists had predicted. While it went past‚ NASA took the opportunity to image the asteroid and learn more about it.From the early results‚ as pointed out by EarthSky‚ the asteroid looks like it could be a contact binary asteroid‚ where two smaller bodies have moved together and impacted due to gravity. Asteroid Arrokoth‚ seen much closer by NASA probe New Horizons‚ has a similar appearance.If you'd like to see it for yourself‚ you should be able to. Though the asteroid made its closest approach on April 15‚ it should be easier to spot on April 16 and 17. All you will need is a telescope and a guide to locating it.

Sometimes in nature‚ there are events that we have to wait for. Some‚ like the upcoming American cicadapocaplypse might not be so popular – whereas‚ across the pond in Birmingham‚ UK‚ botanists are thrilled to reveal the blooming of their sapphire tower.The sapphire tower plant (Puya alpestri) from the Chilean Andes can take up to ten years to flower. The plant is a member of the bromeliad family‚ distantly related to the pineapple. Normally found at high elevations of up to 2‚200 meters (7‚218 feet) in the mountains‚ this plant relies on hummingbirds to pollinate its flowers. Instead‚ at the Arid Glasshouse at Birmingham Botanical Gardens‚ the botanists are using paint brushes to replicate that effect. The flowers are a stunning metallic turquoise with vivid orange anthers (the bit of the stamen where pollen is produced) that occur between the dark green leaves and spines. “Each flower only lasts a few days‚ giving us a limited window of time to give nature a helping hand. In the absence of its natural pollinators‚ we will attempt some hand pollination instead‚” explained Senior Glasshouse Horticulturist Alberto Trinco in a statement.The team says the plant has been in the collection for 20 years. It is thought that the plant will only flower for between 10 days and two weeks‚ giving a short window to enjoy this spectacular rare sight.“It is very slow-growing‚ so to witness its spectacular blooms is both exciting and rare‚” says Alberto. Unfortunately‚ this plant is known as monocarpic‚ which means that after flowering the plant will die. However‚ the team have got a plan in place for this.“Hopefully‚ pollinating the flowers with the brush to obtain seeds will allow us to secure the presence of this amazing species in our collection for future generations to come and admire.” 

One outlet is accusing Big Tech‚ especially Facebook‚ of silencing the truth about radical Islamic terrorism. Daniel Greenfield‚ a journalism fellow for FrontPage Magazine’s David Horowitz Freedom Center‚ announced on April 15‚ “[W]e won’t censor ourselves for Big Tech cash.” He noted that Google‚ Twitter and Facebook (owned by Meta) have all censored individuals connected with the outlet‚ with Facebook being the latest culprit. Most recently‚ Greenfield wrote‚ Google AdSense demonetized FrontPage and Facebook disabled the account of FrontPage Editor Jamie Glazov for discussing Islamic terrorism. Google continues to censor the magazine financially for a previous report about a San Bernardino terrorist attack‚ which FrontPage refuses to remove. More recently‚ Greenfield explained‚ Facebook disabled Glazov’s account over an interview headlined  “Oct. 7 Coming to the USA&;#63;” Facebook reportedly asserted that the interview‚ which discussed accused terrorists crossing into America through the open southern border‚ violated “community standards” and threatened “the security of people on Facebook.” Greenfield referred to a 2023 decision from Meta’s Oversight Board that the term “shaheed” or martyr‚ used by Muslims to refer to jihadis killed while engaging in terrorism‚ was protected by freedom of expression. In fact‚ according to Greenfield‚ pro-terrorist groups and jihadis have used Facebook without censorship over the years. He cited a 2021 report from Israel-based newspaper Israel Hayom on Facebook refusing to address terrorism-inciting content. Previous to that‚ in 2016‚ terror victims sued Facebook‚ accusing it of complicity in inciting terrorism‚ Greenfield added. More recently‚ one Israeli family found out about their grandmother’s death on Oct. 7‚ 2023‚ after Hamas posted a video of her gruesome death to Facebook. “Telling the story of the barbarous Hamas atrocities of Oct 7 got Jamie Glazov banned‚ but one of the little told stories of that day is how Islamic terrorists had used Facebook to taunt and terrorize the families of their victims‚” Greenfield insisted. Greenfield wrote that he has been suspended by Facebook and Twitter. Individuals including Glazov‚ David Horowitz‚ JihadWatch’s Robert Spencer‚ and FrontPage contributor Raymond Ibrahim have all been censored for discussing Islamic radicalism‚ Greenfield reported. PayPal‚ Twitter‚ Google and Facebook censored the anti-terrorism content‚ despite hosting pro-terrorist content from others. Conservatives are under attack. Contact Facebook headquarters at (650) 308-7300 and demand that Big Tech be held to account to mirror the First Amendment while providing transparency‚ clarity on “misinformation” and equal footing for conservatives. If you have been censored‚ contact us using CensorTrack’s contact form‚ and help us hold Big Tech accountable.

Amazon Prime's memorable new hit series Fallout‚ based on the popular video games by Bethesda SoftWorks and Interplay‚ is marred by a number of left-wing biases. The series follows Lucy MacLean (Ella Purnell)‚ a resident of a &;quot;Vault-Tec&;quot; bunker in the year 2296. Vault-Tec bunkers are a high-tech underground network of vaults designed to survive a nuclear blast. Generations have lived in them since nuclear fallout from the fictitious &;quot;Great War&;quot; in the 1950s. Lucy's father‚ Hank (Kyle MacLachlan)‚ is the overseer of the vault where she lives. After Hank is kidnapped by invaders from above ground‚ Lucy leaves the secured vault to go up to the surface for the first time in her life to find him. She journeys across a wasteland filled with ghouls‚ warriors and various unsavory characters. The series bounces back and forth in time between the pre-fallout 1950s and future years. Up on the surface‚ the audience is introduced to the &;quot;Brotherhood of Steel‚&;quot; a post-apocalypse paramilitary order. The brotherhood includes &;quot;Dane‚&;quot; played by &;quot;non-binary&;quot; actor Xelia Mendes-Jones‚ a biological woman. Dane is supposed to be one of the boys‚ but is really a butch-looking woman with a light mustache. Dane's leader uses the pronoun &;quot;they&;quot; when speaking to her‚ albeit very briefly. The &;quot;transness&;quot; of the character is never spoken of or emphasized in any way‚ yet Dane's presence in the brotherhood still requires suspension of disbelief. Outside of Dane's character‚ much of the series eschews any direct wokeness. The main female lead‚ Lucy‚ is not a &;quot;Mary Sue.&;quot; Stronger men sometimes have to intervene to save her‚ and she does not try to girlboss her way across the wasteland. She just wants to find her father.  In the end‚ she discovers her father is actually a villain who works for a corporation that has repeatedly nuked the world in order to destroy competition from it. The truth is revealed by Lee Moldaver (Sarita Choudhury)‚ a woman who is described as a communist in 1950s flashbacks. Numerous characters are capable of living for hundreds of years via different means and Moldaver appears through different epochs. In flashbacks‚ she heads what is described as a communist Hollywood circle. She butts heads with actor Cooper Howard (Walter Goggins)‚ a John Wayne type of character who stars in Vault-Tec ads before learning their evil plans. He turns into a ghoul after nuclear fallout.   After their confrontation‚ Moldaver tells Howard (Walter Goggins)‚ &;quot;I'm not a communist‚ Mr. Howard. That's just a dirty word they use to describe people who aren't insane.&;quot;  Moldaver's Hollywood movement began after her research on cold fusion was stolen by Vault-Tec. She warns Howard and others that Vault-Tec is an evil corporation intent on destruction. In the video game version of Fallout‚ numerous companies profit off the war‚ but this series adds a twist: Vault-Tec and other connected companies ensure that the bombs get dropped in the first place. Moldaver builds a new republic in the years after the first nuclear fallout. With the support of Hank McLean‚ Vault-Tec creates a second nuclear bombing so that there is no future alternative to their vaults. Upon finding her father‚ Lucy learns that the man she thought of as a loving dad is actually a cold-blooded murderer who works for a diabolical corporation. Up until that moment‚ Hank was one of the few white male characters in the show who had not become weak‚ cowardly or cruel. A preponderance of bad guys is par for the course in a post-apocalyptic word‚ but the fact that a white male leader always turns out to be a horrible person in contemporary television is frustrating. Fallout is a strong series in many ways‚ with real character development and a coherent plot. It will likely be able to keep its fan base into future seasons. Unfortunately‚ an underlying leftist worldview ultimately seeps through it despite all its strengths.

Jon Stewart reacted to the recent developments in the Middle East on Monday’s installment of The Daily Show on Comedy Central by doing his standard bit where he‚ on one hand‚ pretended everything was too complicated for him to understand‚ but on the other‚ reduced all the world’s foreign policy crises to America’s love of capitalism. Stewart’s attempt to play dumb began when he was recapping Saturday’s failed Iranian attack on Israel‚ and he seemed upset that the results upended his basic foreign policy worldview‚ “But kudos to the United States and to Israel&;#33; It shows just how effective a military defense system can be when you funnel American dollars away from health care and education.”     Yes‚ you can throw money at education to no effect‚ but if the United States and Israel had not invested in air defense‚ the Middle East would be in an extremely delicate situation right now‚ even more than it already is. Still‚ Stewart sarcastically continued‚ “It really helps to build -- and the best part is‚ we did it with no help&;#33; The two amigos‚ surrounded by hostile Arab nations‚ united in their zeal to destroy Israel.” Stewart then played clips from MSNBC’s Jonathan Lemire and Fox’s Jennifer Griffin reporting on the roles Jordan‚ Saudi Arabia‚ and the United Arab Emirates played in thwarting the attack. He reacted by claiming it is all so complicated‚ “What are the teams of these [bleep] wars&;#63; I don't even know the teams anymore&;#63; The Arab countries are helping Israel&;#63; I don't know what the teams are&;#33; We need to sort this out&;#33; With jerseys or something.” Contrary to Stewart’s rantings‚ it isn’t that complicated. Arab countries do not pose a threat to Israel in the way that they used to and Israel has had a peace treaty with Jordan since 1994. The main threat to Israel comes from Iran and its non-state proxies‚ an assessment shared by many of the Sunni Arab states. It really isn’t that complicated. Later in the show‚ Stewart welcomed the New York Times’s David Sanger to the show to promote his book‚ The New Cold Wars‚ about America’s rivalries with Russia and China. For Stewart‚ these rivalries have a simple explanation‚ “Haven't we sowed the seeds of that with our own arrogance and cavalier approach to a lot of these foreign policy conflicts&;#63; A‚ we always frame things as 'this is a battle between democracy and the free world and liberation and authoritarianism‚' but the truth is‚ we're fighting for trade channels and resources.” Stewart continued by attempting to shame the U.S.‚ “Like‚ this is all a function of competing capitalist powers and aren't we the ones—I mean‚ we've invaded more countries than Russia and China combined. So‚ would it help us to not have to scold everybody for failing to live up to principles that we very clearly do not uphold&;#63;” He further added‚ “But we say that‚ but‚ you know‚ ‘you can't invade a country.’ Well‚ what happened in Iraq&;#63; ... ‘You can't call for regime change.’ What did we do in Libya&;#63; Every time we say these things‚ we undercut our own position with – I mean‚ for god's sakes‚ Iran is an enemy because we overthrew their democratically elected government in 1953.” Russia isn’t fighting for economic resources in Ukraine‚ Hamas isn’t fighting Israel for trade routes‚ China doesn’t threaten Taiwan because of capitalism. Meanwhile‚ Stewart is just wrong. Since 2008‚ Russia has invaded and sliced up two countries‚ China has taken territory from its neighbors‚ the United States hasn’t done any of those things. Here is a transcript for the April 15 show: Comedy Central The Daily Show 4/15/2024 11:02 PM ET JON STEWART: But kudos to the United States and to Israel&;#33; It shows just how effective a military defense system can be when you funnel American dollars away from health care and education. It really helps to build -- and the best part is‚ we did it with no help&;#33; The two amigos‚ surrounded by hostile Arab nations‚ united in their zeal to destroy Israel.  JONATHAN LEMIRE: Jordan's air force also intercepted and shot down dozens of drones that violated its airspace and were on their way to Israel.  JENNIFER GRIFFIN: And we've now learned that Saudi Arabia and the UAE provided real time intelligence that helped track the incoming missiles.  STEWART: What are the teams of these [bleep] wars&;#63; I don't even know the teams anymore&;#63; The Arab countries are helping Israel&;#63; I don't know what the teams are&;#33; We need to sort this out&;#33; With jerseys or something.  … STEWART: Haven't we sowed the seeds of that with our own arrogance and cavalier approach to a lot of these foreign policy conflicts&;#63; A‚ we always frame things as “this is a battle between democracy and the free world and liberation and authoritarianism” but the truth is‚ we're fighting for trade channels and resources. Like‚ this is all a function of competing capitalist powers and aren't we the ones – I mean‚ we've invaded more countries than Russia and China combined. So‚ would it help us to not have to scold everybody for failing to live up to principles that we very clearly do not uphold&;#63;  DAVID SANGER: Well‚ at least we have some principles‚ okay&;#63; That's the one thing –  STEWART: But we say that‚ but‚ you know‚ &;quot;you can't invade a country.&;quot; Well‚ what happened in Iraq&;#63;  SANGER: That's right.  STEWART: &;quot;You can't call for regime change.&;quot; What did we do in Libya&;#63; Every time we say these things‚ we undercut our own position with – I mean‚ for god's sakes‚ Iran is an enemy because we overthrew their democratically elected government in 1953.

In his latest company-man report‚ NPR media reporter David Folkenflik revealed that NPR senior editor Uri Berliner was suspended without pay for five days (beginning Friday) for deciding his years of internal advocacy for more fairness and balance in NPR's coverage had been fruitless‚ so he went public.  Folkenflik disclosed that Berliner‚ as a senior editor for Business‚ had edited many of his stories‚ and shared with him the formal rebuke from management: In presenting Berliner's suspension Thursday afternoon‚ the organization told the editor he had failed to secure its approval for outside work for other news outlets‚ as is required of NPR journalists. It called the letter a &;quot;final warning‚&;quot; saying Berliner would be fired if he violated NPR's policy again. Berliner is a dues-paying member of NPR's newsroom union but says he is not appealing the punishment.... In the rebuke‚ NPR did not cite Berliner's appearance on Chris Cuomo's NewsNation program last Tuesday night‚ for which NPR gave him the green light. (NPR's chief communications officer told Berliner to focus on his own experience and not share proprietary information.) The NPR letter also did not cite his remarks to the New York Times‚ which ran its article mid-afternoon Thursday‚ shortly before the reprimand was sent. So that means the article for The Free Press and his interview on their podcast is what's being punished‚ and specifically for reporting the fact that 67 percent of NPR's current audience identifies as liberal or very liberal. In rebuking Berliner‚ NPR said he had also publicly released proprietary information about audience demographics‚ which it considers confidential. He said those figures &;quot;were essentially marketing material. If they had been really good‚ they probably would have distributed them and sent them out to the world.&;quot; Berliner repeated his message to Folkenflik that a taxpayer-funded news outlet has a special obligation for fairness:  &;quot;I love NPR and feel it's a national trust‚&;quot; Berliner says. &;quot;We have great journalists here. If they shed their opinions and did the great journalism they're capable of‚ this would be a much more interesting and fulfilling organization for our listeners.&;quot; Folkenflik then cited CEO Katherine Maher's pom-pom memo celebrating NPR's employees and without mentioning Berliner by name‚ she claimed he offered &;quot;a criticism of our people on the basis of who we are&;quot; and not the content of their journalism. Berliner took great exception to that‚ saying she had denigrated him. He said that he supported diversifying NPR's workforce to look more like the U.S. population at large. She did not address that in a subsequent private exchange he shared with me for this story. (An NPR spokesperson declined further comment.) Berliner also criticized the collection of Maher's woke tweets that surfaced before NPR hired her:  In an interview with me later on Monday‚ Berliner said the social media posts demonstrated Maher was all but incapable of being the person best poised to direct the organization. &;quot;We're looking for a leader right now who's going to be unifying and bring more people into the tent and have a broader perspective on‚ sort of‚ what America is all about‚&;quot; Berliner said. &;quot;And this seems to be the opposite of that.&;quot; Folkenflik's piece was balanced by a mention of conservative scholar Christopher Rufo‚ and paragraphs of fierce criticism of Berliner from other NPR journalists:  Morning Edition host Michel Martin told me some colleagues at the network share Berliner's concerns that coverage is frequently presented through an ideological or idealistic prism that can alienate listeners. &;quot;The way to address that is through training and mentorship‚&;quot; says Martin‚ herself a veteran of nearly two decades at the network who has also reported for The Wall Street Journal and ABC News. &;quot;It's not by blowing the place up‚ by trashing your colleagues‚ in full view of people who don't really care about it anyway.&;quot; Several NPR journalists told me they are no longer willing to work with Berliner as they no longer have confidence that he will keep private their internal musings about stories as they work through coverage. &;quot;Newsrooms run on trust‚&;quot; NPR political correspondent Danielle Kurtzleben tweeted last week‚ without mentioning Berliner by name. &;quot;If you violate everyone's trust by going to another outlet and sh--ing on your colleagues (while doing a bad job journalistically‚ for that matter)‚ I don't know how you do your job now.&;quot; ....NPR Investigative reporter Chiara Eisner wrote in a comment for this story: &;quot;Minorities do not all think the same and do not report the same. Good reporters and editors should know that by now. It's embarrassing to me as a reporter at NPR that a senior editor here missed that point in 2024.&;quot; Google these critics and NewsBusters and you'll see they are firmly on the Left on the job.

Click to Skip Ahead Signs Your Cat is Sick &; Could Have a Fever Causes of Fever How to Take Cat’s Temperature Cats can get fevers just like humans‚ and they can make your cat feel lousy. Cats are masters of disguise when they are sick‚ and odds are you won’t know your cat even has a fever unless you check their body temperature. But it is always helpful for you to know the signs that your cat might be sick‚ how to properly check their body temperature‚ and‚ most importantly‚ what is normal and what is out of the safe range or even a medical emergency. In this guide‚ we’ll target the signs your cat may have a fever and what to do if your cat has one. Read on to learn more. The 7 Signs That Your Cat Might Be Sick &; Could Have a Fever 1. Lethargy Image Credit: Zhuravlev Andrey‚ Shutterstock Lethargy is a common sign your cat is not feeling well‚ and it also may be a sign that your cat has a fever. A lethargic cat will show no interest in activities‚ especially ones your cat usually enjoys‚ and your cat will want to sleep instead of playing. However‚ lethargy is not a sure sign your cat has a fever‚ as it could indicate an entirely different medical issue. For this reason‚ a trip to the vet is recommended for assessment. 2. Loss of Appetite and Thirst When you’re sick with a fever‚ you typically have no appetite‚ and cats are no different. While this is a common consequence of a fever‚ it is also not a definitive sign‚ as other illnesses can cause a loss of appetite and thirst. A complete loss of interest in drinking water is a dire situation and requires immediate medical attention to keep dehydration from setting in‚ which can be fatal in cats in severe situations‚ especially if not treated quickly. 3. Hiding Image Credit: Mantikorra‚ Shutterstock Hiding is one of the more common signs of illness in cats‚ and it can indicate that your cat might have a fever. Hiding is especially concerning if your cat does not normally display this type of behavior. However‚ cats sometimes hide due to stress and not necessarily because they are sick. If you can persuade your cat to come out of hiding‚ monitor your cat’s behavior. If your cat goes back to acting normal‚ continue to monitor the behavior to determine if a trip to the vet is warranted. 4. Shivering If the environmental temperature is not cold‚ then shivering is a possible indicator that your cat might have a fever. However‚ cats can also shiver as a result of fear or stress‚ which might also be the case if the other issues mentioned above are not present. If your cat is shivering‚ we recommend a trip to the vet for assessment. 5. Higher than Normal Body Temperature Image Credit: guvo59‚ Pixabay If you’re sure something is off with your cat and are comfortable‚ you can use a rectal thermometer to check for a fever. A cat’s normal body temperature ranges from 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit—anything over 104 degrees Fahrenheit is considered a fever‚ indicating your cat needs to be checked by a vet. If the body temperature has reached 106 degrees Fahrenheit‚ this is a medical emergency. At that temperature‚ organs can suffer damage.  At the end of this post‚ we will explain how to measure your cat’s body temperature‚ along with some tips. 6. Rapid Heartbeat/Rapid Breathing A rapid heartbeat or rapid breathing can certainly be a sign of an underlying illness‚ such as anemia‚ congestive heart failure‚ infection‚ low blood pressure‚ and other ailments. A rapid heart rate or rapid breathing is a clear indicator that something is wrong and can be accompanied by a fever‚ to which an examination is in order to determine the cause. 7. Loss of Grooming Habits Cats love to groom themselves‚ and if they suddenly lose interest‚ a fever could be present‚ especially if other signs are present‚ such as lethargy‚ loss of appetite‚ or other factors mentioned above. Your cat is not feeling well if grooming habits come to a screeching halt‚ which is a clear indicator an examination is in order.  Of course‚ you need to be very observant of your cat’s daily behavior to note this before their coat reaches a serious level of messiness. Possible Causes of Fevers in Cats Fever in cats is a sign‚ not a disease‚ so it can have many potential causes and are often activated by the following conditions: A tumor Bacterial infections Fungal infections Tooth abscess Injury from trauma Certain medications Viral infections (FeLV‚ herpes virus‚ etc.) How to Take Your Cat’s Temperature Image Credit: cynoclub‚ Shutterstock Now that we’ve determined possible causes for your cat’s fever‚ let’s discuss how you take your cat’s temperature to know for sure. Again‚ if you’re uncomfortable taking your cat’s temp‚ carry your cat to the vet for an examination. A pediatric or digital thermometer is the most accurate to use‚ and you should never use a glass thermometer because it can shatter and hurt your cat. At any rate‚ grab the following supplies before you begin: Digital thermometer Lubricant (can use petroleum jelly) Rubbing alcohol Paper towels Treats&;#33; Step-By-Step Guide for Taking Your Cat’s Temperature Using a Thermometer Sometimes‚ it’s advisable to enlist the help of a friend to avoid getting scratched or bitten by your cat while performing this task. You know your cat the best‚ and if you feel you can proceed independently‚ proceed with caution. Also‚ if your cat is not very tolerant to handling‚ you might need to use a towel to roll them like a burrito and prevent them from hurting you or your friend. Coat the tip with the lubricant‚ and avoid inserting the thermometer without lubricant—doing so will be uncomfortable for your cat‚ which can result in retaliation. Gently lift the tail to expose the anus. Delicately insert the lubricated tip of the thermometer into the anus‚ approximately 1 inch. You can gently twist the thermometer from side to side to allow the anal muscles to relax. Remove the thermometer when you hear the “beep.” Clean the thermometer with rubbing alcohol. Give your cat a treat only if they allow this manipulation in a peaceful manner (refrain from giving a treat if they fight a lot or if your cat is vomiting). Conclusion No cat owners want their cats to have a fever‚ but sometimes‚ our feline fur babies get sick. We hope this article helps you in the event your cat develops signs of being sick and you suspect they have a fever. The most important takeaway is that being observant of your cat’s behavior and knowing their normal body temperature is very valuable. A fever is not a disease by itself but rather just a sign that something is going on. While knowing how to check your cat’s body temperature is great‚ you will still need to take your cat to the vet for a diagnosis of the exact cause and appropriate treatment. Remember that anything over 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit is above normal body temperature. At 104 degrees Fahrenheit‚ your cat has a fever‚ and anything over 106 degrees Fahrenheit is a medical emergency. Sources https://pets.webmd.com/cats/fevers-in-cats https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/fever-of-unknown-origin-for-cats#:~:text= https://www.greensboro.carolinavet.com/site/greensboro-specialty-veterinary-blog/2021/01/15/signs-cat-has-a-fever-what-to-do#:~:text=Signs%20That%20Your%20Cat%20May%20Have%20a%20Fever&;text=Weakness%20or%20lethargy‚Decreased%20activity https://veterinaryemergencygroup.com/blog/fever-in-cats https://www.hepper.com/how-to-tell-if-cat-has-fever/ https://www.petmd.com/cat/conditions/cardiovascular/c_ct_rapid_heart_beat   Featured Image Credit: megaflopp‚ Shutterstock The post How Do I Know if My Cat Has a Fever&;#63; 7 Vet-Reviewed Signs to Look For appeared first on Pet Keen.

Hamsters are not known for having outstanding eyesight‚ but can they see in color&;#63; As nocturnal animals‚ hamsters’ retinas are optimized to see in the dark and have limited color vision. They are considered dichromates and can probably see the world in blue and green shades. Like other rodents‚ their eyes are better adapted to see in low light than to see vivid shades of colors. Learn more about hamster vision‚ how well they see at night‚ and how they see the world compared to humans and other animals. What Colors Can Hamsters See&;#63; Based on a study conducted by Korean University in 2009‚ hamsters have similar vision to mice.1 The retina‚ at the back of the eyes‚ contains two types of photoreceptors: rods and cones. Rods are responsible for vision in low-light conditions‚ while cones are effective in bright conditions and are involved in color vision. It is thought that they can probably see the world in blue and green shades.2 Hamsters have 96.99% rods and 3.01% cones‚ which correlates with their nocturnal habits. Diurnal animals have retinas with a larger number of cone photoreceptors‚ and nocturnal animals‚ like hamsters‚ have more rods to see better in darkness—like having night-vision goggles. Image Credit: Makoto_Honda‚ Shutterstock Does Light Bother Hamsters&;#63; Hamsters don’t mind light‚ but they do best with natural light-dark cycles formed by the rising and setting of the sun. Artificial lights‚ such as the lights in your home‚ can disturb hamsters if they’re exposed to them throughout most of the night. Like other nocturnal or crepuscular animals‚ hamsters thrive in low light. A bright light like sunlight or a spotlight can be blinding for a hamster‚ so you always want to give them a dark spot to hide and recharge. Can Hamsters See in the Dark&;#63; Hamsters are adapted to see in low light conditions‚ but that doesn’t mean they’re adapted to see in complete darkness. They still need dim light to interpret their surroundings. Unlike cats‚ hamsters do not possess a specialized night vision structure called tapetum lucidum. This thin layer located behind the retina acts like a mirror‚ allowing light to reach the photoreceptors twice‚ making the most of it. Image Credit: CWT.Photographer‚ Shutterstock How Does Hamster Vision Compare to Human Vision&;#63; There isn’t a lot of research into hamster vision‚ but a study conducted on the eyesight of mice showed that hamsters have retinas designed for night vision.3 Hamsters‚ unlike humans‚ do not have a fovea in their retina‚ this is an area of high density of cones which provides high-acuity vision. Instead‚ hamsters’ retina have a much higher density of rod photoreceptors and a minimal amount of cones throughout the retina. Mice’s visual acuity is extremely low‚ equivalent to 20/2000 vision. The visual acuity of normal humans is 20/20. To put that in perspective‚ a hamster has to be approximately 100 times closer to an object to see it as sharply as we do. Their whiskers and smell play a very important role in helping them navigate the world apart from their eyesight. When they’re born‚ hamsters have their eyes sealed tightly shut for the first 10 to 14 days. Once they open‚ hamsters never develop the sophisticated eyesight of some other animals‚ including humans. Image Credit: Maros Bauer‚ Shutterstock Conclusion Hamsters don’t have the best vision and their color vision is not as rich as humans because they’ve adapted to see well in low-light conditions as nocturnal animals. Though they still can’t see in complete darkness‚ hamsters use their night vision‚ sense of smell‚ and sensitive whiskers to interpret the world around them. Sources Populations of Rod and Cone Photoreceptors in the Hamster Retina What can mice tell us about how vision works&;#63; – PMC Behavioral testing and preliminary analysis of the hamster visual system Breeding and Reproduction of Hamsters – All Other Pets – MSD Veterinary Manual Featured Image Credit: Marius Engen‚ Shutterstock The post Can Hamsters See Color&;#63; Vet-Verified Anatomy Facts &; FAQ appeared first on Pet Keen.

Click to Skip Ahead Nutritional Benefits Serving Butternut Squash to Dogs Potential Risks Alternatives Feeding Tips FAQ Dog owners‚ rejoice&;#33; The answer to the question “Can dogs eat butternut squash&;#63;” is a resounding yes. This vibrant‚ orange-fleshed squash is not only safe for dogs to eat‚ but it also packs a nutritional punch that can benefit your furry friend’s health. However‚ serving it correctly and in moderation is key to ensure it’s a healthy addition to your dog’s diet. Nutritional Benefits of Butternut Squash for Dogs Rich in Fiber Butternut squash is a fantastic source of dietary fiber‚ which plays a crucial role in your dog’s diet. Fiber aids in digestion by adding bulk to the stool‚ helping to regulate bowel movements. This can be particularly beneficial for dogs suffering from digestive issues like constipation or diarrhea. Moreover‚ fiber can help manage your dog’s weight as it provides bulk and can prevent overeating. Packed with Vitamins This winter squash variety is a veritable powerhouse of essential vitamins that contribute to your dog’s overall health. It’s packed with vitamin A‚ which is vital for maintaining good eye health and boosting immunity. Vitamin C‚ also abundant in butternut squash‚ is known for its immune-boosting properties‚ which may help your dog fight off illnesses. Additionally‚ vitamin E‚ another key vitamin found in butternut squash‚ helps maintain a healthy skin and coat‚ reducing dryness and itchiness. Mineral-Rich Butternut squash is more than just a vitamin-packed vegetable; it’s also rich in crucial minerals like potassium and magnesium. Potassium supports heart health by helping to maintain a regular heartbeat and balancing fluids in your dog’s body. Magnesium‚ on the other hand‚ aids in nerve and muscle function‚ contributing to your dog’s overall mobility and agility. Image Credit: Freedomnaruk‚ Shutterstock Serving Butternut Squash to Dogs Cooking Methods While butternut squash is indeed safe for dogs‚ serving it raw can be tough for them to digest. Therefore‚ it’s best served cooked. Steaming or roasting are ideal methods as they do not require added fats or oils and preserve most of the nutrients. Avoid adding seasonings or spices‚ as some can be harmful to dogs. To Peel or Not to Peel The skin of the butternut squash‚ while not toxic‚ is tough and can be difficult for dogs to chew and digest. To prevent any potential digestive issues‚ it’s best to peel the squash before cooking and serving it to your dog. Portion Size Even though butternut squash is a healthy food option for dogs‚ it should still be served in moderation. Too much can lead to digestive upset due to its high fiber content. Start with small portions and adjust based on your dog’s size‚ age‚ and activity level. Potential Risks of Butternut Squash Choking Hazard The seeds and skin of butternut squash can pose a choking hazard to dogs‚ particularly smaller breeds. Always remove these parts before serving to ensure your pet’s safety. Make sure to also cut the squash into bite-sized pieces for your dog. Allergic Reactions While rare‚ some dogs might be allergic to butternut squash. Signs of an allergy can include itching‚ swelling‚ and digestive upset such as vomiting or diarrhea. If you notice any of these signs after feeding your dog butternut squash‚ consult a vet immediately. Alternatives to Butternut Squash Pumpkin Image Credit: Ildi Papp‚ Shutterstock Pumpkin is another dog-friendly squash that’s high in fiber and vitamins. It’s particularly beneficial for dogs with digestive issues and can be easily incorporated into their diet. Sweet Potato Image Credit: Nungning20‚ Shutterstock Sweet potatoes are a good source of dietary fiber‚ vitamins‚ and minerals‚ just like butternut squash. They’re also high in beta-carotene‚ which supports eye health. Carrots Image Credit: New Africa‚ Shutterstock Carrots are a low-calorie alternative that are high in fiber and vitamin A. They make for a crunchy treat that’s great for dogs’ oral health‚ particularly those with weight issues. Tips for Including Squash in a Healthy Dog Diet Incorporating squash into your dog’s diet can offer numerous health benefits‚ thanks to its rich content of essential vitamins‚ minerals‚ and dietary fiber. Here are some handy tips on how to introduce this nutritious vegetable into your furry friend’s meals in a safe and healthy manner. Choose the Right Type of Squash There’s a variety of squashes that are perfectly safe for dogs‚ including butternut squash‚ zucchini‚ and pumpkin. All these types are loaded with critical vitamins and minerals that contribute significantly to your dog’s overall health. Use Squash as a Fiber Supplement If your dog tends to get hungry often‚ adding fiber to their diet from healthy sources like squash can help satiate them for longer. This can be particularly beneficial for overweight dogs trying to lose weight. Include Squash in Treats Many dog treats include squash as an ingredient‚ offering a tasty and healthy way to incorporate this vegetable into your pet’s diet. Always remember‚ every dog is unique. What works for one might not work for another. Therefore‚ it’s always best to consult with your vet before introducing new foods into your pet’s diet. Image Credit: 12019‚ Pixabay Other FAQ About Butternut Squash for Dogs Q: Can puppies eat butternut squash&;#63; A: Yes‚ but it should be cooked‚ mashed‚ and served in small amounts. Q: How often can my dog eat butternut squash&;#63; A: Butternut squash can be included in your dog’s diet a few times a week‚ but it shouldn’t replace their regular dog food. Q: Is butternut squash good for overweight dogs&;#63; A: Yes‚ its high fiber content can help promote feelings of fullness and aid in weight management. Q: Can dogs with diabetes eat butternut squash&;#63; A: Yes‚ but in moderation due to its natural sugar content. Speak with your vet to confirm it is an appropriate choice for your dog. Q: Can butternut squash help a dog with constipation&;#63; A: Yes‚ the high fiber content in butternut squash can help regulate bowel movements. Again‚ confirm with your vet prior to feeding to your dog. Q: How much butternut squash can I give my dog&;#63; A: This will depend on your dog’s size and dietary needs. Always start with small amounts and adjust based on your dog’s reaction. Image Credit: New Africa‚ Shutterstock Conclusion Butternut squash can be a healthy and tasty addition to your dog’s diet‚ offering a range of nutritional benefits. As with any new food‚ introduce it slowly and watch for any signs of allergic reactions. Variety is the spice of life‚ even for our four-legged friends‚ so don’t be afraid to get creative with their meals while keeping their nutritional needs in mind. Sources American Kennel Club Dog Time Pet Health Network   Featured Image Credit: pada smith stockphoto‚ Shutterstock The post Can Dogs Eat Butternut Squash&;#63; Vet-Verified Feeding Facts &; FAQ  appeared first on Pet Keen.

Click Below to Skip Ahead Characteristics Temperament Intelligence Food &; Diet Exercise Health Training Grooming Fun Facts An Airedoodle is a mix between an Airedale Terrier and a Poodle (though the exact type does vary). When you mix these two breeds together‚ you never quite know what you’re going to get. However‚ the Airedale Terrier is a larger terrier that is exceptionally outgoing‚ while the Poodle is known for being very intelligent. When you mix these two dogs together‚ you typically get something in the middle. That said‚ it’s important to realize that mixed breeds can vary widely—even within the same litter. Breed Overview Height:20–24 inches Weight:40–65 pounds Lifespan:10–15 years Colors:Black‚ brown‚ cream‚ white Suitable for:Families with plenty of time to exercise and mentally stimulate them Temperament:Friendly‚ intelligent‚ affectionate‚ independent While it’s hard to know exactly what you’re getting with these dogs‚ they’re often great family dogs for those with plenty of time on their hands. In most cases‚ they are good with children and strangers alike. However‚ they can be a lot of work‚ as they require plenty of exercise‚ grooming‚ and entertainment. Airedoodle Puppies View this post on Instagram A post shared by Joey (@joey_the_airedoodle) Airedoodles are riding the wave of popularity most mixed breeds are experiencing right now. However‚ they aren’t nearly as popular as many other breeds out there. It takes some effort to find a reputable breeder‚ especially since you can’t rely on the AKC or breed organizations. Choosing a responsible breeder is still important to the health of your dog. These breeders will provide health screenings and genetic testing to ensure that the puppies don’t end up with health conditions that can be avoided. These dogs are rare at local animal shelters and rescue organizations. However‚ you can occasionally find them‚ so it is always worth checking. Once you have a puppy‚ you’ll probably find that they are similar to any other puppy. They tend to be very playful and curious‚ with boundless energy and enthusiasm. They’re quick learners thanks to their high intelligence‚ so you should start taking advantage of this at an early age. Early socialization is also important‚ as it helps them grow into confident‚ well-behaved adults. Image Credit: Left – otsphoto‚ Shutterstock | Right – everydoghasastory‚ Shutterstock Temperament &; Intelligence of the Airedoodle Airedoodles are often affectionate and love to be around their humans. They are people-oriented dogs‚ which means that they’re all about attention for humans. While they do bond closely with their family members‚ they also enjoy attention from strangers. Don’t be surprised if these dogs follow you around the house or beg for your attention throughout the day. These dogs can be great in families thanks to these traits. However‚ they may also be prone to separation anxiety. Therefore‚ it’s important to crate-train them and get them used to being alone throughout the day. Poodles are exceptionally intelligent‚ so it’s likely that their puppies will inherit at least some of their brains. They’re likely to be quick learners and enjoy mental challenges. This makes them a joy to train‚ but it also means that they can get bored very quickly. You’ll have to provide plenty of challenging games and toys to keep them entertained. Airedoodles tend to be very energetic‚ requiring plenty of exercise. They’re usually behaved indoors‚ but they may be a bit too hyperactive if not properly exercised. This can cause them to knock things over (including small children). This breed can be a perfect outdoor companion. They’re very adventurous and don’t tend to be scared of much. Their high exercise needs also allows them to keep up on backpacking trips and longer hikes. Are These Dogs Good for Families&;#63; Airedoodles are good for many families. They’re affectionate and bond closely with everyone. Unlike some other breeds‚ they are not one-person dogs. They tend to get along with children well‚ too. However‚ there are some things you need to keep in mind. They tend to be active and require regular exercise. Therefore‚ they do best in active families. They will play with children outside for hours. In families that tend to be more sedentary‚ though‚ they may not fit in as well. It’s also important to socialize them well with children and others starting at a young age. While they tend to be friendly‚ you should not rely on this tendency alone. Socialization helps ensure they aren’t afraid of children or strangers once they become adults. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Norman the Airedoodle (@norman_the_airedoodle) Does This Breed Get Along with Other Pets&;#63; Airedoodles can get along with other animals‚ including cats and dogs. However‚ just like any other animal‚ they do require socialization. If they are exposed to these animals at a young age in a positive‚ controlled environment‚ they tend to get along fine once they get older. Dogs also have different temperament traits. They are individuals‚ after all. Therefore‚ it’s important to understand that your specific dog may not get along with other dogs very well‚ for instance. Airedoodles can also come in several different sizes‚ with the main factor being the size of the Poodle parent. It’s important to consider the size of your dog when considering whether or not they will get along with your other pets. Matching the energy level can also be helpful. If you have a more laid back dog‚ it can be challenging for them to get along with a hyperactive Airedoodle. Things to Know When Owning an Airedoodle Food &; Diet Requirements These dogs do not have any special dietary needs. In most cases‚ a high-quality commercial dog food works just fine. You should choose an option that is designed for your dog’s size and life stage. Puppies that are larger need a large-breed puppy formula‚ for instance. Nutrition when your dog is younger is vital for them to grow into a healthy canine. Protein is essential for muscle development and overall health. A diet with around 18–25% protein content is typically suitable for adult Airedoodles‚ while puppies may require a slightly higher protein content. Dogs that are exceptionally active may need high-protein food. Be sure to measure your dog’s food portions to prevent overfeeding. While the feeding guidelines on the food container can be helpful‚ they shouldn’t be the only thing you consider. You may also need to adjust their food according to their weight loss or gain. Feed on a regular schedule so that your dog knows what to expect. This step can be exceptionally helpful when potty training‚ as well. When in doubt‚ consult your vet about what would work best for your canine. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jasper (@jasper_the_airedoodle) Exercise Airedoodles are pretty energetic. Therefore‚ you should plan on exercising your dog for at least an hour a day. This should be broken into several sessions. For instance‚ you could do a morning nap and then a 30-minute play session in the afternoon. Varying the activity can help keep your dog mentally stimulated‚ which is also important. These dogs thrive on human interaction‚ so they will often like to do anything that involves their people. Play absolutely counts as exercise‚ so consider tug-of-war or interactive toys on top of the usual walks and jogs. Try to incorporate training sessions into exercise routines. Airedales like a mental challenge‚ and training while exercising helps you check two things off at once. Even giving different commands while walking can be a challenge for your Airedale. Don’t overexercise your dog‚ especially when they are a puppy. While most need at least an hour of exercise‚ this can vary. Training This dog breed is pretty intelligent‚ so they often take well to training. They benefit from regular training sessions‚ even after they’ve learned all the basics. Begin training your Airedoodle as a puppy. Early socialization and basic obedience training are essential for their development. Positive experiences during this critical period can shape their behavior and temperament. Positive reinforcement techniques are best for all dogs‚ including Airedales. Praise‚ treats‚ and toys can all reward good behavior. Because these dogs are so responsive to people‚ praise often goes a long way. Be consistent in your commands and have everyone in your household do the same. Mixing things up can be very confusing for your dog. Start with very basic commands‚ like sit‚ stay‚ down‚ and come. “Leave it” is also very important‚ as it can prevent your dog from eating things they shouldn’t be eating. Airedoodles can be strong pullers‚ so leash training is crucial. Teach loose leash walking to ensure pleasant walks for both you and your dog. You’re going to be walking these dogs a lot‚ so it’s important to train them well in this regard. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ernie (@ernietheairedoodle) Grooming Grooming Airedales can be a mixed bag. Because they are a mixed breed‚ you never exactly know what you’re going to get. These dogs may have a curly or wavy coat (like a Poodle)‚ or it may be more like an Airedale’s straight coat. This will make their grooming needs differ considerably. If your dog has a Poodle-like coat‚ you’ll likely need to brush them every day at least. If they have a straighter coat‚ brushing 2–3 times a week is plenty. Bathing should only occur infrequently‚ as too much bathing can strip the oils from their fur and cause all sorts of issues. In many cases‚ you’ll need to make regular professional groomer appointments to get your canine trimmed. Otherwise‚ they will have far too much fur to take care of and will quickly become tangled. Again‚ how often you need to trim your dog will vary. However‚ you can expect them to need trimming every 6–8 weeks. Like all dogs‚ you’ll also need to take care of their eats‚ nails‚ and teeth. Check and clean your Airedoodle’s ears regularly to prevent wax buildup and potential infections. Keeping the fur inside their ears trimmed can prevent infections‚ too. Keep their nails trimmed to a reasonable length. Long nails can be uncomfortable and may affect their gait. You can do this yourself or have your groomer do it when you get your dog trimmed. Brush your Airedoodle’s teeth regularly to prevent dental issues. Dental chews and toys designed to promote oral health can also be beneficial (but they do not replace tooth brushing). Health and Conditions Airedoodles‚ like all dogs‚ can be prone to certain health conditions‚ some of which may be inherited from their parent breeds‚ the Airedale Terrier and the Poodle. While not all of these dogs will have health conditions‚ they absolutely can.  One of the most common conditions is hip dysplasia‚ which can affect larger dog breeds. This occurs when the hip joint doesn’t develop correctly‚ leading to early arthritis and pain. Luckily‚ this condition can be prevented through careful breeding. Skin allergies are another common problem. Itching‚ redness‚ and discomfort can occur if your dog comes into contact with one of their allergens. Airedoodles may also be prone to ear infections‚ but cleaning and trimming their ears can prevent these‚ too. Bloat is sadly common with older dogs. This deadly condition occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists. Surgery is required to relieve the pressure. We don’t know exactly what does or doesn’t cause this condition just yet. Minor Conditions Skin allergies‚ ear infections‚ eye problems Serious Conditions Hip dysplasia Bloat Male vs. Female There are no significant differences between the males and females of this breed. Because individuals vary so widely‚ there aren’t any sure differences between genders besides those that are related directly to reproduction. 3 Little Known Facts About the Airedoodle 1. They aren’t hypoallergenic. There is no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog‚ despite what many breeders advertise. Those with dog allergies are allergic to a dog’s skin and saliva—which every dog has. Science has found no link between how much a dog sheds and their allergen level. 2. Some of them do While these dogs are often described as non-shedding‚ this isn’t accurate. In many cases‚ they will shed‚ though the exact amount will vary. 3. They aren’t officially recognized. Because they are a mixed breed‚ Airedoodles isn’t officially recognized as a dog breed by the AKC or any other major kennel club. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cosmo_El_Airedoodle (@cosmo_el_airedoodle) Final Thoughts Airedoodles can make great family dogs for those with enough time on their hands to care for them properly. While these dogs don’t shed much‚ they aren’t hypoallergenic‚ making them a poor choice for those with allergies. These dogs tend to be pretty healthy‚ though proper breeding and care are still necessary to avoid some of the preventable health problems they might face. Sadly‚ breeders rarely produce these dogs‚ as they just aren’t very popular compared to purebreds. Sources Airedoodle Dog Breed Pictures‚ Characteristics‚ and Facts Airedoodle | Dog Breed Facts and Information – Wag&;#33; Dog Walking Jaci Online Featured Image Credit: Left – otsphoto‚ Shutterstock | Right – chili71‚ Pixabay The post Airedoodle (Airedale Terrier Poodle Mix): Care‚ Pictures‚ Info‚ &; More appeared first on Pet Keen.