Curious Kiwis: 10 most googled pet questions

When it comes to questions about their cats and dogs, the pet parents of Aotearoa are fond of some late-night googling sessions, with all sorts of curious queries being typed into search engines across the motu. We’ve gathered up the most commonly googled pet questions and answered them here to help you settle fact from fiction so you can confidently care for your pets.

The top 10 pet questions Kiwis are searching

1. Why do cats sleep so much?

Sleep helps pets conserve energy, regulate hormones and stay mentally sharp. Most adult cats sleep 12–16 hours a day, while kittens and seniors can snooze even longer. Dogs also sleep more than we do, typically 12–14 hours daily, depending on age and breed. As long as your pet is active, eating well and alert when awake, lots of sleep is totally normal.

2. Why is my dog’s nose wet?

A wet nose helps dogs absorb scent particles, boosting their incredible sense of smell. That said, a wet nose doesn’t automatically mean your dog is healthy, and a dry nose isn’t always a worry either. Hydration, weather, sleep and age all play a role.

3. Why do dogs eat grass?

Chomping on grass can have a few different motivations; however, the most commonly accepted across the vet sphere is that they are seeking a little more fibre in their diet that comes from roughage.

4. Why do cats purr?

Cats most commonly purr when they’re content, but the behaviour is also seen when they’re anxious, in pain or seeking comfort, which can be a bit confusing. The context is key to understanding why, particularly in environments where a stressed cat may be perceived as relaxed.

5. How long do cats live?

On average, cats live 12–15 years, though indoor cats often live longer. Diet, genetics, environment and regular preventive care all influence lifespan.

6. Are dogs colour blind?

Dogs aren’t colour blind in the way we once thought. Both cats and dogs can see colours, just not the full spectrum that humans do. So, when you’re wondering what colours cats and dogs can see, think blues, yellows, and greys rather than reds and greens.

7. How can I stop my dog from barking?

Understanding the cause is key. Boredom, fear, alerting or excitement can all trigger barking. Training, enrichment, and exercise are a good place to start, followed by a visit with a pet behaviourist if the barking persists.

8. Why do cats knead?

Colloquially known as making biscuits (or scones) on social media, kneading is a comforting behaviour cats carry from kittenhood. It’s a sign your cat feels safe, relaxed and bonded to you. They may do it to their bedding, your blankets and throws, or even while sitting on your lap.

9. Can cats drink milk?

Despite the stereotype, most adult cats are lactose intolerant. Milk can cause tummy upsets, so fresh water is always best to offer for liquids. There may be cat-friendly milks available at your local pet food stockist but always check with your vet, if in doubt.

10. Is pet insurance worth it?

Vet care costs can add up quickly, especially in emergencies. Pet insurance may be helpful when it comes to managing unexpected expenses. Depending on your policy, pet cover may also come in handy for some routine care items as well as chronic conditions.

Common pet health concerns and how to address them

Some health questions pop up again and again, relating to itching, allergies, toileting issues, and upset tummies, just to name a few! If you are worried about your pet's health, your vet should always be your first port of call – don’t rely on Dr Google to give you the right information as every pet is different and health-related questions should be answered by a health professional.

Fun facts and surprising pet behaviours

If you’ve ever laughed – or scratched your head – at something your pet does, you’re not alone. Pets have quirky behaviours that often leave owners googling for explanations. One of the most commonly searched behaviours is the ‘zoomies’, where your pets tear around the house expending built-up energy.

Other adorable antics include:

• Cats staring at empty corners. This doesn’t mean they’re seeing ghosts – they’re just tuned in to details our senses miss
• Dogs tilting their heads when they hear a strange sound
• Pets bumping their favourite humans with their noses as a sign of affection

These behaviours might seem odd at the time, but they’re part of what makes pet ownership so entertaining and special.

Tips from experts to answer Kiwi pet queries

SPCA encourages pet owners to trust their instincts. Changes in behaviour, appetite or routine are often the first signs that something’s not right. When in doubt, seek advice early and use reliable, New Zealand-based resources rather than internet myths, or simply contact your local vet for their professional advice.

Understanding your pet better helps them live their happiest, healthiest life, and helps you enjoy every moment together. For peace of mind through every life stage, you can learn more about SPCA Pet Insurance and how it supports pets and pet parents across Aotearoa.