Should I Be Worried if My Cat's Nose is Dry?

by Britt

Published: September 6th, 2024

Photo credit: xtine_surya / Shutterstock.com

We often refer to our cat’s noses as adorable and irresistible, but have you ever stopped to consider what else they can tell us? Those cute “boopable” snouts are complex organs with many vital functions, including breathing, smelling, and regulating body temperature. They can also serve as a barometer of their overall health, warning us when something’s wrong.

A persistently dry nose can sometimes indicate an underlying health problem. Understanding the potential causes and when to seek veterinary help is crucial for ensuring your cat is happy and healthy.

This guide will explore the common reasons for a dry nose in cats and how to determine if it’s a cause for concern (as not all dry noses are). We’ll also discuss additional factors related to your cat’s nasal health and how to keep your feline friend feeling their best.

Why Are Cat Noses Wet?

Whether you’re a first-time cat parent or have had cats for years, you’re likely familiar with the wetness that most cats have on their noses. But why exactly are their noses wet?

When you touch a healthy cat’s nose, they often feel slightly wet and cool. This wetness could result from several factors, including sweat, licking their noses, drinking water, drainage from their tear ducts, or outside environmental factors (like rain and snow).

Their noses are obviously used to breathe and smell things, just like humans. However, there is one significant difference: A wet nose can help keep your cat cool on a hot day. Our kitties don’t sweat all over like we do. Instead, they sweat solely through their noses and paw pads.

Luckily for your cat, that wet nose can improve their sense of smell. When scent particles come in contact with the damp surface of their nose, they stick. This allows your cat to get an even better whiff of whatever smell they have encountered.

Causes of Dry Nose in Cats

Your cat’s nose may be a little dry or even cracked for several reasons, ranging from everyday experiences to potentially life-threatening health complications. To identify whether your cat’s dry nose is an issue, you’ll need to watch for other symptoms of trouble. Here are a few of the most common causes of dry nose in cats and what to look out for:

It’s Your Cat’s “Normal”

I will list a wide variety of reasons to consider here, but first, let’s get this one out of the way. Some cats will have a dryer nose naturally, even when they are completely healthy. You know your cat best. If you have kept up with your cat’s annual vet visits, been given the all-clear, and your cat still has a dry nose, it may be the way it is.

Dry Air Conditions

One of the most common causes of a dry nose is the air conditions in your home. Whether you are running the central heating system excessively during the cold of winter or relying heavily on the air conditioning unit during the summer, you can unintentionally create dry air conditions in the home.

While dry air doesn’t require an emergency vet visit, it is something that you should address. Dry air can cause many problems for both you and your cat, including dry skin and respiratory issues. One of the easiest ways to correct the problem is to purchase a warm or cool mist air humidifier.

Close Proximity to a Heat Source

Do you have a cat who enjoys sleeping on the air vents or in front of your fireplace? Your cat’s dry nose may simply be the result of the moisture drying up while basking in the heat. Given a bit of time, the moisture will return on its own. If you suspect this is the case, keep an eye on your cat to ensure everything returns to normal and no other underlying causes are at play.

Dehydration

Cats are notoriously bad for not drinking enough water, resulting in many living in various states of dehydration. If your cat isn’t taking in as much water as they need, they may not have the moisture to sweat as much, resulting in a dry nose. Unaddressed, this could lead to severe consequences, including organ failure, heat stroke, cardiac problems, or neurological damage.

Additional signs of dehydration to watch out for include:

Sticky, pale gums
Sunken eyes
Loss of appetite
Dark colored urine
Constipation
Lethargy
Weakness or collapse

There are many potential causes of dehydration, including health conditions that require veterinary treatment. Call your vet and share your concerns. To prevent dehydration, consider feeding canned food or a mix of canned food and kibble to include more fluids in their diet. Try different water bowls, water bowl locations, or water fountains to find your cat's preferred arrangement.

Our cats use the Catit Flower Fountain, which has significantly increased their water intake!

Sunburned Nose

Think back to the last time you suffered a sunburn. You can probably recall how dry the damaged skin felt. We often overlook the risks of the sun’s UV rays because our cats are protected by their fur. However, some body parts are still left exposed – including the nose. Other signs your cat has suffered a sunburn include swelling, redness, irritation, or skin flaking.

Even if your cat doesn’t enjoy spending time outdoors in the sun, they may still be exposed to sun damage while basking in the hat indoors. You can reduce the risk of sunburn by closing the blinds to keep the sun out, installing a UV protective window film, or using a pet-friendly sunscreen on your cat’s nose.

Photo credit: Svetlana Rey / Shutterstock.com

Respiratory Problems

We usually associate respiratory problems with runny noses and increased moisture, but conditions like these could also lead to a dry nose. As your cat licks at their nose, trying to soothe any irritation and discomfort, they may remove the moisture that usually would be there. It’s like the irritation that occurs when you blow your nose too many times.

If your cat’s dry nose is the result of respiratory issues like the cat flu, allergies, or a growth in the nasal passages, you may also notice sneezing, dry/cracked skin, loss of appetite, discharge around the eyes, or digestive problems (vomiting or diarrhea).

A vet’s appointment is needed to identify the issue and the best source of treatment. As some of these conditions can cause severe or life-threatening complications if left unaddressed, it is recommended that you seek veterinary help as soon as possible after recognizing there is a problem.

Scratches or Injuries

Another cause of irritation in or around the nose that could lead to it drying out is trauma – like scratches or wounds. This may be an obvious cause if you can identify the wound visibly. Unfortunately, trauma to the nose is often hidden inside the nose where we can’t see it.

Signs of pain or discomfort caused by an injury to the nose include:

Presence of blood
Sneezing
Pawing at the face
Rubbing their face against the floor or other objects
Loss of appetite
Difficulty breathing, breathing through the nose
Facial swelling

While it could potentially heal on its own, any injury to the face should be treated with extra care. Complications like an infection could significantly impact your cat’s overall quality of life or even create a life-threatening situation.

If you suspect your cat has suffered an injury in or around their nose, contact your veterinarian. In the event your cat is the victim of a significant injury or there is bleeding you are struggling to control, this may also warrant a trip to your nearest emergency clinic. The sooner your cat receives the medical care they need, the better.

Skin Diseases or Conditions

Your cat’s nose, at its root, is just skin. This means it is at risk of suffering from many of the more common skin-related problems cats can experience. In most cases, skin issues on the nose are only the tip of the iceberg. Upon closer examination, you will likely discover that there are skin problems covering a larger part of your cat’s body.

Signs of skin disease or irritation include:

Red, swollen, or irritated skin
Scaly skin or dandruff
Cat acne, scabs, or lesions
Unpleasant skin odor
Matted fur
Excessive licking, scratching, or chewing at themselves
Itchy ears or paws, specifically
Excessive head shaking

If you notice any of these signs of trouble, a trip to the vet is in order. Skin conditions can result from allergies, bacterial or fungal infections, or underlying health concerns and diseases. For example, Pemphigus foliaceus is an autoimmune disease that often causes lesions around the face, including the nose.

Your veterinarian will run tests to identify the problem. Depending on the root cause, treatment could involve oral medications, topical treatments, medicated shampoos, or prescription diets. It may take trying a couple of these options before finding a solution that works, especially in an ongoing situation like allergies. However, when you find the most effective option for treatment or management, it will be worth all the effort!

Cancer

It’s the one explanation no cat owner wants to hear, but we must address the elephant in the room. Your cat’s dry nose could be a warning sign of several types of cancer, including sarcomas, carcinomas, or lymphoma. In many cases, a cancer diagnosis starts with a process of elimination.

Warning signs of cancer in cats include:

Unusual lumps or bumps around the snout
Skin irritation
Sores that don’t heal
Unexplained bleeding or discharge
Difficulty breathing
Coughing
Unpleasant odor from the mouth or facial area
Loss of appetite
Difficulty eating or swallowing
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Weight loss

Anytime you suspect a severe disease or illness like cancer, it warrants a visit to the vet. The process of diagnosing cancer can be lengthy as your vet works through all the potential causes of the symptoms.

One way you can help with this process is to keep a journal, recording any changes you witness, when/how often they occur, and what your cat was doing (or trying to do) when it happened. Include every change, regardless of how big or small – something you see as no big deal could be the missing piece to help your vet solve the problem.

When is a Wet Nose a Sign of Trouble?

A wet nose is generally a sign of a healthy cat, but there are times that the moisture is telling you a different story. If you notice an increase in moisture, runny nose/discharge, and/or sneezing, your cat may be suffering from a health problem like upper respiratory infection or allergies. It could also be a sign that a foreign object is stuck in their nose that needs to be removed. All of these situations warrant a trip to the vet.

When Should I See a Vet?

While a dry nose can sometimes be a regular occurrence, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and contact your vet if you have concerns about your cat’s health and well-being. Early detection and treatment can make all the difference in managing underlying health issues. Unless you can identify the cause and know it’s of no concern, getting it checked out is your best bet.

Final Thoughts: Cat Noses and Their Health

Remember, a dry nose isn’t necessarily a cause for concern. However, if you can’t identify an obvious cause (like lying next to the fireplace), the dryness doesn’t rectify itself, or you notice signs of trouble, like lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, skin irritation, or noticeable damage to the area, a visit to your vet is recommended. After all, early detection and treatment could make all the difference if there is an underlying health condition to address.

With a little observation and proper veterinary care (when needed), you can ensure your cat continues to sport a healthy, boopable nose for years to come.

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Britt

Britt Kascjak is a proud pet mom, sharing her heart (and her home) with her “pack” which includes her husband John, their 2 dogs – Lucifer and Willow – and their 2 cats – Pippen and Jinx. She has been active in the animal rescue community for over 15 years, volunteering, fostering and advocating for organizations across Canada and the US. In her free time, she enjoys traveling around the country camping, hiking, and canoeing with her pets.

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Hypothermia puts your cat’s health at risk, and if not treated in time, can be fatal. So, it’s wise to know even just the basics about hypothermia so you can recognize the symptoms and get your cat the help they need right away. Here’s a short guide to get you started.

Guide Dog Trigger Retires After Fathering Over 300 Puppies

A nine-year-old golden retriever, nicknamed The Dogfather, is going to a well-earned retirement after fathering a grand total of 323 puppies. Trigger has spent his years being the star stud dog of Guide Dogs. This charity organization specializes in breeding and training guide dogs for people with visual impairment in the United Kingdom. Since the beginning of his stud career in December 2016, Trigger has fathered 39 litters, including a record-breaking litter with 16 puppies in 2021. According to Guide Dogs, 294 of Trigger’s puppies have been bred by the charity itself, and an additional 29 puppies by other assistance dog charities and guide dog schools, bringing his grand total to 323 puppies.The Dogfather’s final litter consisted of six puppies, including five daughters named Rita, Jenny, Hermione, Indy, and Sandy, and a son, named Billy. The last of Trigger's offspring are eight weeks old and about to start their guide dog training and will be living with volunteer puppy raisers for the next year. “Trigger’s legacy can be seen in the independence and confidence his progeny has brought to the lives of blind and partially sighted people all over Britain,” shared Guide Dogs in a news release. The Dogfather’s puppies have been affectionately nicknamed Triglets by guide dog owners and volunteers. These pups have been guiding visually impaired and partially sighted individuals across the United Kingdom, including London, Cardiff, Glasgow, and even the Isle of Wright. Two of Trigger’s litters have been bred abroad at guide dog organizations in France and the Netherlands, creating guide dog partnerships in both countries. “Trigger’s wonderful, gentle nature and excellent health have made him the perfect asset to our breeding program. We can’t overstate the impact that Trigger has in helping us to provide so many guide dogs for people with sight loss,” said Janine Dixon, Head of Breeding Operations at Guide Dogs. Dixon added the charity hopes that Billy, Trigger’s son, will continue his father’s legacy by joining the breeding program in a few years.“In the meantime, nine of his daughters, as well, as his half-French son Pierre, are helping us to bring forward a new generation of dogs with Trigger’s fantastic genes,” shared Guide Dogs.When it comes to Trigger’s future, he will spend his well-earned retirement in Branbury with his Breeding Dog Volunteer Sarah Bryne, who has been looking after him for the past seven years and will now officially adopt him. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Can You Get Worms From Your Dog?

Sharing your life with a dog is such a joy – but sometimes, you end up sharing a bit more than you'd want to. And no, we’re not talking about your bed. One common concern among pet owners is the possibility of contracting worms from their dogs. But this, in turn, raises more questions: how are worms transmitted, what types of worms are there, what are the symptoms, and what preventive measures can owners take? Read on to learn more about best practices to ensure your and your pet’s safety when it comes to intestinal parasites.Can You Get Worms From Your Dog?The first thing owners need to know is the types of worms that can affect their pets. While doggos can contract these worms through various means, such as ingestion of infected feces or soil, flea bites, or through their mother’s milk, the risk of transmission to humans varies with each type.Roundworms:These are the most common intestinal parasites in dogs. They can be transmitted to humans, especially children, through accidental ingestion of contaminated soil or feces. The larvae of these worms can migrate through the body, causing a condition known as visceral larva migrans.Hookworms:These parasites can also infect humans through direct contact with contaminated soil. The larvae penetrate the skin, leading to a condition called cutaneous larva migrans, which manifests as itchy, red trails on the skin.Tapeworms:These are usually transmitted to dogs through the ingestion of fleas that carry tapeworm larvae. While direct transmission from dogs to humans is rare, it can occur if a person accidentally ingests an infected flea.Whipworms:These worms are less common and primarily infect dogs through the ingestion of contaminated soil. Human infection is rare but possible.Human infection with dog worms primarily occurs through accidental ingestion or skin contact with contaminated soil or feces. Children, due to their tendency to play in the dirt and their less stringent hygiene practices, are at higher risk. Adults can also be infected, particularly if they handle soil or dog feces without proper precautions.Preventing worm transmission from dogs to humans involves a combination of good hygiene practices and regular veterinary care for your pet. Here are some key preventive measures:Ensure that your dog is regularly dewormed according to your vet’s recommendations. This helps reduce the risk of your dog contracting and spreading worms.

Can Dogs Get Pink Eye?

Eye issues are always a big nuisance, for both dogs and their owners alike. Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is one of the more common ailments that affects the eyes and can happen to any of us. But can it affect dogs as well? Yes – conjunctivitis is quite common in dogs, and it causes red, inflamed eyes. In this case, it is called canine conjunctivitis. It can be caused by various factors including bacterial or viral infections, allergies, foreign objects in the eye, or other irritants, and it is manifested in several different ways – this is what you need to know if you suspect your pet has pink eye.Can Dogs Get Pink Eye?There are different types of conjunctivitis in dogs, and some are more dangerous than others. Either way, all dog owners should be well informed about all the potential issues that this inflammation can lead to, as well as the potential causes behind the different types of pink eye.Bacterial ConjunctivitisThis form of conjunctivitis in dogs is often characterized by a yellow or green discharge from the eye, along with redness and swelling of the conjunctiva, which is the thin, transparent membrane covering the inner surface of the eyelids and the white part of the eye. Bacterial conjunctivitis can be connected to other conditions such as respiratory infections or trauma.Viral ConjunctivitisCertain viral infections such as  canine distemper virus or canine adenovirus can also lead to conjunctivitis in dogs. These infections may cause watery discharge, redness, and inflammation of the eye. Viral conjunctivitis can sometimes be more challenging to treat and may require supportive care to manage symptoms.Allergic ConjunctivitisJust like us, dogs can also experience allergic reactions that affect their eyes. Common allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or certain foods can trigger allergic conjunctivitis in some dogs. Symptoms may include itching, redness, and watery discharge.IrritantsSometimes, foreign bodies and irritants in the eye can cause conjunctivitis. Things such as dust, sand, or grass can irritate the eyes and if not treated, lead to conjunctivitis. The same goes for certain airborne chemicals and smoke which can lead to further problems. Conjunctival HyperemiaSomewhat rare, this condition involves dilation of blood vessels in the conjunctiva membrane, resulting in redness of the eyes. It can be caused by various factors, including irritation, trauma, or systemic diseases.Treating and Preventing Pink Eye in DogsTreatment for canine conjunctivitis typically involves addressing the underlying cause. This may include topical or oral medications such as antibiotics for bacterial infections, antiviral drugs for viral infections, or anti-inflammatory medications for allergic reactions. In some cases, supportive care such as eye rinses or lubricating drops may be recommended to alleviate discomfort and promote healing.Of course, it pays to do anything you can to prevent the inflammation from occurring in the first place. Be wary of potential irritants and things that could hurt your dog’s eyes and lead to conjunctivitis. If you live in an area with plenty of dust, pollen, smoke, or anything similar, it might be wise to invest in  special protective gogg l es for dogs.

Study Finds Designer Dogs At High Risk of Tick Infestation

If you are regularly finding ticks in your dog’s coat, you might be wondering if there’s something special about your pooch that makes it more prone to attracting these blood-sucking pests than other dogs. Well, a new study can shed some light. Researchers from Royal Veterinary Colledge (RVC) have discovered that some dog breeds are more likely to become infested by ticks. The study revealed that popular designer crossbreeds such as cavapoo, cockapoo, goldendoodle, and cavachon have an increased risk of tick infestation due to their poodle heritage. Researchers identified standard poodles as the second most likely breed to become infested by ticks, suggesting that ticks find the poodle’s curly coat particularly appealing. “There is no single perfect dog breed so it is critical that we fully understand the strengths and weaknesses for the breed we choose to bring into our own family. Owners of dogs that are either poodle or have poodle heritage can now be aware of the need to routinely check their dogs for ticks and to perhaps ensure the coats of these dogs are kept short,” said Dr. Dan O’Neil, lead author of the study. Designer dog breeds have become extremely popular among pet lovers in recent years. Poodles are often crossed with other pure breeds to create designer hybrids, mainly because of their low-shedding coats which are considered hypoallergenic. However, this new study points out that designer dogs are at an increased risk of tick infestations because of the poodle’s curly coat. The RVC’s VetCommpass study analyzed a random sample of veterinary health records of 900,000 dogs in the UK. The results showed that ticks are a common parasite in dogs, with one in every 50 dogs diagnosed with at least one tick infestation during five years. Researchers also looked at possible risk factors to understand what makes some dogs more likely to attract ticks than others. The possible risk factors included traits such as skull shape, breed purity, coat, and body weight. While the study found that newer designer breeds had a higher risk of tick infestation, it also discovered that some pure breeds are also at high risk. These included the cairn terrier, standard poodle, golden retriever, Person Russell terrier, and miniature schnauzer. Interestingly, researchers have established that Staffordshire bull terriers, rottweilers, Chihuahuas, and English bulldogs have the lowest risks of tick infestation. The study also found that male dogs had a 1.24 higher risk of attracting ticks than female dogs. Dogs with medium-length coats and pooches with V-shaped drop, or long, floppy ears also exhibited an increased risk of tick infestation. “Ticks aren’t just pests that feast on your dog and cause them to itch; they can also be carriers of serious diseases. They can be dangerous for any age of dog and indeed any breed - although this paper shows that some dogs can be more susceptible to picking them up due to their coat - so it’s important owners know what to do if they spot one,” said Bill Lambert, Welfare and Breeding Service Executive at The Kennel Club. Ticks are blood-sucking parasites that attach to a dog’s skin and can stay there for up to a week, before falling off when they are full of blood. In addition to feeding on a dog’s blood, ticks also transmit diseases. The most common tick-borne diseases that affect dogs are Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, ehrlichiosis, anaplasmosis, babesiosis, hepatozoonosis, and bartonellosis. These are serious diseases that can have detrimental health consequences for dogs if not treated in time. Although ticks normally live in woodlands and grasslands, they can be found in urban areas and popular hiking trails. The best way to protect your pooch is to stay up to date with your dog’s tick prevention. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

How Much Playtime Does My Cat Need?

Sure, cats tend to spend a lot of their day seemingly lazing about, basking in the sun, meticulously cleaning themselves, and snoozing away. However, that doesn’t mean that cats are not active animals that need daily exercise – they have an instinct to hunt, explore, and engage in different activities that stimulate their minds and bodies. Without adequate mental and physical stimulation, cats can become bored, stressed, and even develop behavioral issues. This is why playtime is not “just” a matter of playing for felines. It meets their most basic needs and it's an essential component of their overall well-being.What Are the Benefits of Playtime for Cats?Engaging your cat in interactive play stimulates their cognitive abilities, keeping their minds sharp and active. Activities like chasing toys, solving puzzles, or hunting for treats mimic their natural hunting instincts, providing mental enrichment. Enrichment is crucial to prevent destructive behaviors, aggression, and other behavioral issues that stem from boredom and lack of mental stimulation. In addition to keeping your kitty’s mind sharp, playtime will keep them fit as a fiddle and in their top form. Regular play sessions help cats balance extra energy, maintain a healthy weight, and prevent obesity-related health issues. It also promotes muscle tone, flexibility, and overall physical fitness, reducing the risk of joint problems as they age.Last but not least, interactive play presents a unique bonding opportunity. Playing together with your cat will strengthen your relationship, fostering trust and affection. It's a chance to spend quality time together and will provide your cat with a sense of security and happiness.How Much Playtime Does My Cat Need?The importance of your cat having regular playtime is indisputable, but how much playtime do they need? Well, as it usually goes with these things, the answer will largely depend on your pet’s specific traits, such as their age, breed, and health status. However, for most cats, that “magic” number ends up being between 20 to 30 minutes of playtime each day. This could be your starting point to determine the right amount of play for your pet, just tailor it to their needs – for instance, younger cats and kittens will need longer and more frequent play sessions to burn off excess energy and engage their curious minds. How To Make Playtime Engaging for Your CatAs intelligent and sometimes finicky animals, cats can be a bit hard to please. A new toy might bore them in a matter of hours, or they might prefer scratching your couch rather than the new cat tree you bought them – but if you rely on the following tricks, it’s much likelier that your kitty will enjoy playtime.#1 Rotate ToysKeep your cat's interest piqued by rotating their toys regularly. Introduce new toys periodically to prevent boredom and stimulate their curiosity, but don’t overdo it – bringing home new toys too often will ensure they get bored of each one too quickly. #2 Variety is KeyExperiment with different types of toys, such as wand toys, laser pointers, puzzle feeders, and interactive play circuits. Cats have unique preferences, so observe what activities your cat enjoys most and tailor playtime accordingly. Usually, a safe bet is going for a catnip-filled toy such as the well-loved  Yeowww! Catnip Yellow Banana Cat Toy. Popular for its shape that makes it perfect for cats to grab onto and forcefully scratch with all fours, this toy will keep your kitty engaged thanks to the organic catnip stuffing that fills this banana-shaped toy to the brim.

Which Spring Flowers Are Toxic to Dogs?

Springtime is such a joyful time of the year. The harsh and gloomy winter days are finally over, and nature is awakening – the sun is shining, trees are blooming, and life erupts all over again. But that doesn’t mean that there are no downsides to this season. From spring allergies to spring shedding, there are also quite a few things that don’t spark joy when spring comes. One of those unexpected things that become a downside of spring when you’re a dog is flowers. Yup. Those gorgeous, lush-smelling blooms that appear in the spring can pose a threat to your dog, as many spring flowers are toxic to our canine friends.So without further ado, let’s see which of these pretty, colorful flowers are potentially dangerous for dogs – so you’ll know exactly which of them to avoid planting in your garden or putting in a vase.Which Spring Flowers Are Toxic to Dogs?As we all know, dogs are inquisitive and love to nibble and sniff all sorts of odd things, flowers included. This is why you should be vigilant in the spring when many potentially toxic plant varieties are in season. Keep an eye out for the following flowers when walking your pet out and about or when picking out seeds for your flower beds!Daffodils

Scientists Developing AI Technology To Decipher Your Dog’s Barking

There is no dog owner out there who doesn’t wish to understand their pet’s bark! And now that artificial intelligence is evolving and expanding with each new day, it seems that this seemingly impossible feat can now become a reality.A research team at the University of Michigan is now studying how exactly artificial intelligence can be used to help understand the way dogs communicate. The scientists are developing special AI tools that will ultimately help understand whether a dog’s bark is aggressive, or shows playful intentions. And that is not all – AI will help gather crucial information from the bark, such as the breed, age, and sex of the dog. “By using speech processing models initially trained on human speech, our research opens a new window into how we can leverage what we built so far in speech processing to start understanding the nuances of dog barks,” said Rada Mihalcea, director of the University of Michigan’s AI laboratory.Throughout the course of the study, the team studied vocalizations from 74 different dogs, all in various contexts. They quickly realized that AI models that were originally trained on human speech could now be a great starting point to help train new AI systems made specifically to understand animal communication.“There is so much we don’t yet know about the animals that share this world with us,” said Mihalcea. “Advances in AI can be used to revolutionize our understanding of animal communication, and our findings suggest that we may not have to start from scratch.”Mihalcea also adds that all their findings indicate that “the sounds and patterns originating from human speech can form the basis for examining and comprehending the acoustic patterns of other sounds, including animal vocalizations”.But even so, using AI to analyze dog communication is hindered, as there is still a lack of data available publicly.“Animal vocalizations are logistically much harder to solicit and record,” said Artem Abzaliev, lead author of the study. “They must be passively recorded in the wild or, in the case of domestic pets, with the permission of owners.”Besides this, scientists were also able to reuse a model that analyzed human speech. This helped them to “tap into” major voice-enabled technologies that can actually recognize spoken words and those speaking them.“These models are able to learn and encode the incredibly complex patterns of human language and speech,” Abzaliev adds. “We wanted to see if we could leverage this ability to discern and interpret dog barks.”What is more, according to the study the research will also have major implications for animal welfare. If we can understand dog vocalizations, it can help us respond better to the needs of our pets.

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