Pets

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.

At SPCA, we encourage all rabbit owners to desex their rabbits as early as possible. But, if you find yourself caring for a doe and her kits, this guide can help you the proper care for both mother and her babies.

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.

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!

Take our fun and interactive 20-minute SPCA animal welfare course, developed in collaboration with international RSPCA partners

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.

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.

You may have recently rescued a stray cat or dog and are keen to find them a permanent home. However, there are legal considerations under the Animal Welfare Act which must be followed when rehoming certain types of stray animals. There are additional considerations under the Dog Control Act 1996 for a dog you take into your care for 72 hours or more.

While all dogs have nails, whether or not they need to be trimmed depends on a variety of factors. This guide will help pet owners to understand whether their dog requires regular nail trimming, how to do this safely without causing any pain and minimising stress, and when to seek veterinary assistance.

A new baby brings big changes to your home, and your pets may find this unsettling. Starting that relationship right and preparing before the arrival of a baby is an important part of reducing stress for everyone in the household and building the foundation of a long and happy relationship between your child and your pets.