PETBOOK magazine offers answers to all things cats, dogs and animals

Many do it This Common Feeding Mistake Can Make Your Cat Sick

Many people feed their cats incorrectly. It's not just about what's in the bowl, but also how often it's filled. PETBOOK explains why twice a day is far too little.

Behavior Explained Why Cats Walk Away When You Pet Them

Your cat approaches, and just as you're about to pet her, she suddenly disappears? PETBOOK explains why this behavior is completely typical.

This Common Feeding Mistake Can Make Your Cat Sick

Keeping Budgerigars Alone? That's Animal Cruelty

Urinary Crystals in Cats: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

A person holds a cigarette in their hand. In the background, a dog lies on the floor.

Underestimated Danger Smoking Can Be Deadly–Even for Pets

Secondhand Smoke Can Be Deadly for Pets Learn how smoke infiltrates fur, bedding, and bodies, and discover ways to protect your animals.

Dogs ›

Brave, Calm, Overwhelmed Why "Good Dogs" Often Experience Stress

Is your dog well-behaved? What may seem like a good sign at first glance can actually be a warning signal, explains dog trainer Katharina Marioth.

Lazare, a Papillon, with his tongue hanging out on a blooming meadow

At 30 Years Old Blind and Scruffy! Papillon Lazare Is the Oldest Dog in the World

Papillon Lazare from France is reportedly an incredible 30 years old, potentially making him the oldest dog in the world.

A person sits at the laptop. The dog is nearby, while the cat watches from a distance.

Study Shows Why Dogs Help Humans While Cats Just Watch

Why do dogs help, and why don't cats? A new study reveals how differently our pets really think.

Asked the Expert Does My Dog Know When I'm Pregnant?

Dogs often notice early when their owner is pregnant. A dog trainer explains why this happens and what typical behavioral changes to expect.

A person holds a filled food bowl. In front of them sits a dog.

The 5-Minute Analysis Is Your Dog's Food Really Good?

Recognizing good dog food can be crucial for your dog's health. Nutritionist Philine Ebert explains how to do it.

Back then, commonplace Did You Know? Why Dog Poop Used to Be White

A few years ago, walking through the city, you would often come across white dog feces. Here's why that's no longer the case.

Cats ›

Flounder the fishing cat next to her soundboard

Unexpected Abilities "Where Friend?" – Cat Asks About Her Deceased Companion

Can animals ask questions, or are we misinterpreting it? Soundboards provide intriguing insights into the communication of dogs and cats.

Cat Elmer Covered in Glue and After Several Oil Baths (District)

Dramatic Rescue Cat Elmer Nearly Died in Glue–Here's How He's Doing Today

When Tomcat Elmer was found, he was completely covered in glue and fighting for his life. Thanks to a special treatment, he was saved.

Questionable Trend What Does "Garlic Clove Fur" Mean for Cats?

Garlic clove fur in cats is seen as a sign of perfect care online. But is that really true? What's behind the fluffy trend?

Behavior Explained Did You Know? Why Cats Always Settle in Boxes

Cats love sitting in boxes—the tighter, the better. PETBOOK explains why cats are so fond of boxes and other square objects.

Siamese Cat Peeks Out From Between Cushions

Behavior Explained Cats Watch Us While We Sleep: Here's Why

Why does my cat stare at me while I sleep? Cat expert Saskia Schneider explains the most common reasons–from affection to hunger.

Russian Blue Cat in Front of a Plate of Wet Food

Expert Explains Cat Sniffs Food but Doesn't Eat? Here's Why

A quick sniff—no, I don't like that: why do so many cats exhibit this behavior and when should you be concerned?

Small pets ›

Suitable Enclosure Keeping Rabbits Outdoors: What Owners Should Know

Rabbits in the garden sound particularly natural. However, those who want to keep their animals outside must take several precautions.

Hamsters, Rabbits, and More Is It Safe to Feed Carrots With Black Spots?

Many animals enjoy eating carrots—but can hamsters, rabbits, and the like eat them if they have black spots?

Creepy Phenomenon How Does a Rat King Form?

The Rat King–a rare natural phenomenon that has fascinated people for centuries. PETBOOK explains how it occurs.

A rabbit sits on the grass in front of the outdoor enclosure.

Sensitive Digestive System Why Stomach Overload in Rabbits Quickly Becomes Dangerous

If a rabbit stops eating and appears unusually tense, it may indicate a stomach overload. PETBOOK explains how this can happen.

How Do I Know if My Rabbit Is Overweight?

Obesity in Small Animals Is Your Rabbit Overweight? Here's How to Tell

How do owners know if their rabbit is too fat or too thin? PETBOOK explains the Body Condition Score and advises what owners should look out for.

Buy or Adopt Where Can You Actually Buy a Hamster?

If you're considering buying a hamster, it's important to think it through carefully. PETBOOK shares what prospective owners should pay attention to.

Horses ›

Judith Rakers sits on a couch with a cat, presenting her children's book.

PETBOOK Interview Judith Rakers: "You Should Never Betray a Horse's Trust"

Judith Rakers offers insights into her farm life. Discover how horses reflect our behavior and why nature is important for children.

Often Underestimated How Much Hay a Horse Consumes Per Day

How much hay does a horse eat per day, and what is the hay rule? PETBOOK explains why hay is so important for horses.

Common Illness How to Recognize Arthritis in Your Horse

If a horse suddenly moves more stiffly or doesn't walk smoothly, arthritis could be the cause. PETBOOK explains what owners should watch for.

Horse being washed, second image inserted with foam, sweating horse

Shampoo or Sweat? Did You Know? Why Horses Sweat Foam

Is it sweat or shampoo? Horse sweat often appears foamy—PETBOOK explains the reasons behind this and how much sweat is considered normal.

Expert Provides Insight Are Mares in Heat Really More "Moody"?

A mare in heat is often quickly labeled as "moody." Behavioral biologist Dr. Vivian Gabor explains why this is problematic.

two women examine the legs of a horse standing still

Most Common Causes Why Is My Horse Lame?

If a horse is limping, there can be various causes. PETBOOK explains what owners need to pay special attention to.

Birds ›

No Breadcrumbs What Do Pigeons Eat in the Wild?

Did you know? Pigeons are not omnivores and in the wild, they actually eat only very specific foods.

A woman approaches pigeons, causing them to fly away.

Surprising Study Result Birds Flee Sooner From Women Than Men

Do birds flee sooner from women? A study shows how human gender affects animals' flight distance.

Budgerigars display their vitality through lively social behavior, vigorous preening, and vibrant colors—all of which contribute to a long life.

Popular Pet Birds Do You Know How Long Budgerigars Live?

Do you know how long parakeets live? PETBOOK explains what factors influence their lifespan.

A songbird looks into the camera while singing

Singing Talents Decorative Bird Chirping Too Loud? Here's Why

If the birds are chirping too loudly, many owners start to worry if everything is okay with their pets. Possible reasons why.

Comprehensive Overview Buying a Budgie: What to Consider Before Getting One

Budgerigars are not beginner pets. PETBOOK explains the essential questions you should ask yourself before purchasing these birds.

Popular Songbirds Canary Not Singing Anymore? Here Are Possible Reasons

When a canary stops singing, owners quickly become concerned. What could be behind this and when you should see a veterinarian.

Aquarium & terrarium ›

Reptile Care How to Properly Clean a Bearded Dragon Terrarium

In the bearded dragon terrarium, hygiene and calm routines are key during cleaning, though some people often make mistakes.

Challenging Amphibian Dart Frog Named Pet of the Year 2026

Colorful and fascinating—the poison dart frog is pet of the year 2026. Here's what to consider for care, equipment, and protection.

Red-bellied short-necked turtle on a rock

Red-bellied Short-necked Turtle This Turtle Can Even Be Kept in Groups

The red-bellied short-necked turtle is an exotic reptile commonly found in home terrariums and can also be kept in groups.

Magnetic cleaner used to remove algae from aquarium

Vegetation on the Basin Aquarium Without Algae? Why It's Nearly Impossible–and How to Still Achieve Clear Water

Algae in aquariums can become troublesome if they multiply excessively. Which types are problematic and which are not.

Expert Explains Feeding Reptiles Properly: These 5 Principles Protect Against Diseases

Properly feeding reptiles means understanding their needs and ensuring their health and well-being through a tailored diet.

A green sea turtle swims through the ocean

Life Expectancy of Reptiles How Old Do Turtles Actually Get?

How long do turtles live? PETBOOK provides a comparison of lifespans from small aquatic turtles to giant land tortoises.

Wildlife ›

Flirting with Consequences Unbelievable! Male Turtles Push Females Off the Cliff

The Hermann's tortoises on Golem Grad should be living carefree. However, their own mating drive is now becoming their downfall.

A butterfly rests on the outstretched palms of a person.

Unpleasant Truth The Real Reason Butterflies Land on People

Why Do Butterflies Land on People? The behavior isn't symbolic. For many, the reason is actually quite off-putting.

The Largest Deer in the World Elks Return to Germany–Here’s Where They Live

Moose in Germany are rare but increasingly spotted. Sightings are particularly on the rise in the East. What's behind this trend?

Images from videos show masses of woodlice moving in circles

Bizarre Behavior Artificial Light at Night Causes These Animals to Run in Deadly Circles

Thousands of woodlice are suddenly moving in endless circles. What appears to be a natural phenomenon could become a trap for the creatures.

Eerie 'Goth' Bird Blood-Curdling Scream! Have You Heard of the Dracula Parrot?

The Dracula parrot impresses with its jet-black plumage and bone-chilling call. It is native to the rainforests of New Guinea.

Fishing Cat This Wildcat Loves Water and Barks—Hardly Anyone Knows It

The fascinating fishing cat not only has webbed feet but can also bark. Intriguing facts about this small feline.

Animal protection ›

Turned in for hedgehog care Found with 70 Ticks! Rescuers Fight to Save Hedgehog Uschi

Hedgehog Uschi was found with an astonishing 70 ticks. PETBOOK inquired about her current condition and the treatment she received.

Dog Trainer Takes Stock "Adopt, Don't Shop"? Why We Should Critically Examine the Slogan

The slogan "Adopt, don't shop" is almost a fundamental principle in the dog world. However, behind this appealing promise lie contradictions.

Also from the German Animal Welfare Federation "Pigeons Are Losing Their Instincts"–Deutsche Bahn Poster Sparks Intense Criticism

A Deutsche Bahn poster warns: Feeding pigeons could cause them to lose their instincts. Animal rights activists disagree.

"Rats of the sky"? Günther Jauch's comments on pigeons in the April 13, 2026, broadcast spark debate

"Rats of the Sky" Pigeon Hatred on "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?" Animal Rights Activists Criticize Jauch

Günther Jauch's pigeon comments on "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?" sparked criticism. Activists accuse him of reinforcing stereotypes.

According to the Animal Welfare Organization Targeted Killing: Stray Dogs Face Severe Challenges in These Countries

In some countries, stray dogs face more challenges than in others. An animal welfare organization has created a ranking.

Mass Breeding and Cruel Killing? How Bumblebees Suffer for Tomato Cultivation

Bumblebees are bred in large numbers for tomato cultivation. But what happens to the colonies afterward? PETBOOK sought answers.