The Sciences
The Evolution of House Cats
Genetic and archaeological findings hint that wildcats became house cats earlier--and in a different place--than previously thought
Special Report
Scratch 'n Sniff: A Guide to Cats and Dogs
How did house cats evolve? Can dogs talk? Why do cats purr? Find out, in our definitive report on the science of our best friends
The Sciences
Are Dog Breeds Actually Different Species?
A humorous take on using dog breeds to prove evolution
The Sciences
Veterinarians Unleash Probiotics to Ease Doggie Discomfort
A growing number of veterinarians are prescribing supplements of friendly bacteria for dogs, but is there enough scientific evidence to justify it?
Fact or Fiction: Dogs Can Talk
Are human speech-like vocalizations made by some mammals equivalent to conversation--or just a rough estimation of it?
Dogs' Bark: Not fair! Study shows pups get jealous
Scientists have confirmed what pet owners have always suspected: our pooches may pout when they sense another pup is getting favorable treatment.
Researchers at the University of Vienna in Austria report today in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences USA that dogs may be like our human best buds: they get jealous if they feel we're treating another dog better.
Cat Fleas Abhor a Vacuum
Vacuuming not only sucks up cat fleas, it kills them in the process. Karen Hopkin reports
The Truth about Cats and Dogs
Scientific American magazine Editor in Chief John Rennie talks about the contents of the June issue, including articles on the evolution of cats and the physiology of sled dogs. Plus, we'll test your knowledge of some recent science in the news
Veggie Cat Food? Why Not All Cats Need Meat
Some tips (and warnings) for considering switching your cat to a vegetarian diet
The Obamas' Portie: a breed that almost went extinct
The Obamas talked about rescuing a dog from a shelter. They ended up getting pup Bo as a gift from friend Sen. Edward Kennedy, D-Mass., but it turns out the First Family has become part of a 70-year journey to save an entire breed by bringing home a Portuguese water dog to become the nation's First Dog.
FDA approves cancer drug for dogs, too
Until now, cancer treatments prescribed by veterinarians were human-friendly formulas that hadn't yet been tested for canine companions. But the U.S.
The Incredible Journey: Microchip ID Reunites Owners with Cat--13 Years Later
Implant credited with long-lost pet's triumphant return
Strange but True: Cats Cannot Taste Sweets
There is a reason cats prefer meaty wet food to dry kibble, and disdain sugar entirely
What makes a dog hypoallergenic?
Is there really such a thing as a dog that won't cause allergies?
