Pantheon
A term for esteemed pets, like champion dogs.
Papillae
The tiny barbs on a cat’s tongue help them groom.
Parvovirus
It is a dangerous viral disease affecting dogs, especially puppies.
Pastern
The area between a dog’s paw and its lower leg is often referenced in breed standards.
Pavlovian Response
A conditioned reaction in pets, named after Ivan Pavlov’s dog experiments.
Pawky
An old term meaning clever or mischievous, often used to describe playful pets.
Pedigree
A pet’s recorded lineage or ancestry, especially for purebred animals.
Pelage
The fur of an animal is frequently used for warmth, insulation, and protection against harsh conditions.
Perch
A structure or branch for birds to rest on is commonly used in avian care.
Perro
The Spanish word for "dog" is occasionally seen in breed names, like Perro de Presa Canario.
Phalene
A specific type of Papillon breed characterized by its distinct droopy ears.
Piebald
A coat pattern featuring large patches of two colours, standard in dogs and horses.
Piloerection
The scientific term for when a pet’s fur stands up due to fear or excitement.
Pinnal
Related to the outer part of an animal’s ear, often discussed in vet care.
Plastron
The underside shell of turtles is frequently mentioned in reptile care.
Plume
A long, feathery tail is seen in dog breeds like the Afghan Hound.
Pododermatitis
Inflammation of an animal’s paws is common in dogs and cats.
Pointing
Some hunting dogs freeze and focus on prey.
Pollex
A term for the thumb or dewclaw on particular animals, like dogs and cats.
Polydactyl
A genetic trait where a cat has extra toes is famously seen in Hemingway cats.
Pompadour
A crest of elevated feathers found in birds such as cockatoos and pigeons.
Prehensile
A term for tails or paws that can grasp, seen in some exotic pets like opossums.
Prick Ears
Ears that stand upright are naturally found in breeds like German Shepherds.
Prognathism
A condition where a pet’s lower jaw extends beyond the upper jaw is common in Bulldogs.
Purling
Content cats produce a soft, steady, purring sound that is comforting to hear.
Pyoderma
A Skin infection that is commonly found in dogs, and often needs treatment.
Pyrenean
This pertains to mountain dog breeds, including the Great Pyrenees.
Pyrrhic
A rare term sometimes used to describe a fiercely determined pet personality.
Pyrrole Pigments
Certain compounds can influence the colour of a pet’s coat or eyes significantly.