Our pets may not talk, but that doesn't mean they don't know how to tell us when they're not comfortable or when they are. Nevertheless, some pets can hide how they feel physically or emotionally. You can learn to read certain signs. All you need is a little insight – and a lot of practice. Here are 10 secrets our pets don't tell us.
1. You think my wagging tail is always an invitation to pet me. Error! Researchers found that we move our tails slightly to the right when we see something we like and to the left when we're scared.
2. Your favorite cat game to play with me needs a laser pointer, but I get frustrated because I can't catch it. Please use a pointer with a toy at the end and I'll have something to catch – it makes the game worth it.
3. Please don't take out the hair dryer when you take care of me! To make me look fluffy, add a little cornstarch to my coat and then brush, it will absorb grease and untangle the matted coat.
4. Just because I'm an old dog doesn't mean I can eat whatever I want. I'll be much happier if you give me a daily supplement containing glucosamine and chondroitin to help protect my joints.
5. Please introduce me to your friends and family when I'm a puppy so I'm not afraid of strangers.
6. Please let me choose my own bed! If I usually sleep with my legs outstretched, I'll be more comfortable on a flat bed with no sides, but if I like to curl up, I'll probably like a cozy one with sides.
7. I love playing with the Frisbee, but that hard plastic can hurt my teeth and gums, get a soft one from the pet store.
8. I love fancy cat toys, but you can easily make a homemade toy that I love. I can have just as much fun with a tangle of rope or a cardboard box.
9. When I bark and jump, I try not to be naughty, I want you to play with me!
10. My digestive system is different from yours and snacks of yours can be dangerous for me. Please don't give me chocolate, coffee or avocado.
