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Companion cats are loving members of many New Zealand families. Feral cats are independent with no need for human assistance to support them in their daily lives. Somewhere in between are stray cats, which vary in how much they interact with people and rely on them for important things such as food and shelter.

Learn how to help a timid or shy cat settle in, build trust, and feel safe with tips on creating a calm space, gentle interaction, and routine. Whether you’ve adopted a timid cat from a shelter, taken in a stray, or inherited a pet from a friend or relative, helping them feel safe is the first step to forming a deep, rewarding bond.

Barking is a normal way for dogs to communicate, whether they're excited, anxious, or trying to alert us to something. However, when barking becomes excessive—happening loudly and frequently—it can become a nuisance for both owners and neighbours. If your dog’s barking is causing issues, don’t worry! With the right approach you can manage and reduce it.

Avian botulism is a paralytic neuromuscular disease in birds that is often fatal if not treated. Birds become sick by ingesting invertebrates, such as maggots, that have themselves ingested toxins produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. This bacterium thrives in shallow/stagnant waters where oxygen levels are low and nutrient levels are high.

Bird gel repellents are used to deter birds from roosting, perching, and nesting but often cause unintended suffering and death. SPCA advocates for restricting or prohibiting the sale and use of bird gel repellents because of the harm they cause.

SPCA advocates that pest management should cause the least harm to the fewest animals and be based on an actual problem rather than negative perceptions of an animal. Other important considerations for pest management are discussed in this article.

Your home is a safe and special space for you, your family, and pets to live in. When a baby arrives, parents will ‘baby-proof’ the house to ensure the place is safe for little ones. But paw-rents should also do a safety sweep of their home as well – as pets can be in danger from household items and chemicals, too!

Have you ever seen an online poll pop up asking a quick question about animal welfare? Maybe something like, "Should fireworks be banned?" or "Was the government right to ban greyhound racing?" It might seem like a useful way to understand where the public stands, but not all polls are created equal.

At SPCA, we understand that losing a pet can be one of life’s most heartbreaking experiences. Please know that you don't have to carry the pain alone. This guide offers support and practical advice for navigating pet loss grief, including ways to honour your pet's memory and find comfort during this difficult time.

Deaf dogs can live happy, fulfilling lives. With a few adjustments to how you communicate and set up their environment, you can help them thrive. Deaf dogs often rely more on visual and tactile cues, and with patience and positive training methods, you can build a strong and trusting bond.