Is Your Cat Healthy? Here are Signs that Prove it is (or isn't!)

Being a proud cat parent is not easy. Taking good care of your pet is imperative. Is your cat healthy though? Are you aware of the various signs and symptoms that could reveal about the health of your cat? Cats or our beloved pets do not speak our language; it is only through scrutiny that we can equip ourselves to notice these little changes in their behaviors to understand them better. Here is the perfect guidebook to understanding your cat better and building a protective environment for its long life. 

1. Notice the Eyes of your Cat

Cats have naturally attractive eyes. They are bright and clear, most of the time. Any discharge around their beautiful eyes or cloudy parts in the pupils of the eyes can be indicative of something. In the event of redness or visible irritation of the eyes, it is recommended to consult your veterinarian. It could range from conjunctivitis, corneal damage, eye inflammation, glaucoma, keratitis, eyelid mass to cataracts. 

Additionally, it is considered best if the owner has pet insurance for cats. It can help to bear the cost of unforeseen incidents or medical charges. Additionally, it aids in better efficacy when it comes to financial stability, in the long run.

2. Skin and Coat of the Cat

Cats have vivid skin colors that can be very dazzling. Their coats should be free from flakes and mats. The skin and coat can be indicative of several problems. For instance, dry skin and coat can mean a lack of grooming. Over-grooming for cats is a possible condition. This can lead to sore skin, skin inflammation and hair loss. This condition is brought about, in cases of excessive licking. Wounds and swellings can be visible too. 

In any situation other than the ideal, the owner should consider consulting the doctor. It is correctly pointed out that one should not make assumptions when it comes to cats. 

3. The Digestive Health of your Cat

Cats litter is generally small and firm. This ideal condition can be translated to a healthy diet of the cat, or the fact that the cat can retain the nutrients from their diets. Coupled with this, is the vital need to pick the correct types of cat food. Even the most expensive ones can be unsuited for your cat. It can even give them an upset stomach, loose stools or food poisoning. 

One needs to be careful while storing the food, to prevent these occurrences. Avoiding the litter box can be serious indications. Statistically, almost 10% of the cats stop using their litter boxes due to various reasons. Consulting the veterinarian is a must in this case. Monitoring the litter box can enable you to early detection of diseases like Urinary tract infection, feline interstitial cystitis or kidney stones or blockage. Urine marking should not be mistaken for elimination outside the litter box. 

Every feline urinates a smaller amount outside the litter box, and this is a normal condition that the owners should not worry about. They can talk to their veterinarian to have a better understanding of this. 

4. The Teeth of your Cat

Cats usually have a clean set of teeth. Their gums are expected to be bright pink. In case there is a change or difference in these, observe closely. Plague and tartar can be a cause of these. Further, there can be yellowing or darkening of the back teeth. 

The three specific dental problems that can cause a lot of pain and discomfort to your cats are gingivitis, periodontitis, and tooth resorption. You should immediately consult the vet in these cases.

5. The Energy Level of your Cat

Higher energy levels in cats can be attributed to their playfulness and are the perfect condition to be expected. Excessive lathery or hiding should be the cause of worry. Rapid breathing too can be added to this list of things to be worried about. 

Obesity can be a visible reason for this sudden lack of energy. But this is likely to develop over time. Sudden changes can reflect on some internal problems of the cat. Keep an eye open for any display of discomfort or pain to access the situation better. 

Arthritis of joint pains has often been the cause for these. Age is another factor that plays into these developments. However, one should always consult the doctor to ensure the early detection of any diseases. 

Conclusion

One can simply not stress enough on the utmost need to check with their reliable vet if they own a cat. The average lifespan of the cat ranges from 10 to 16 years. One should take every necessary step to ensure that your cat lives for a greater span and has a comfortable life. 

Noticing the subtle changes in the behavior or the appearance of the cat can greatly contribute to this process. Your little friend deserves the best life and you should thrive to guarantee that.

Click on the links in the article to see where it takes you.

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

Tips on how to store cat food properly

Being as mindful as you can about your cat’s diet is one of the most significant responsibilities a petparent can take. The love we feel for our furry friends backs up the belief that quality nutrition is not merely about fewer trips to the vet and lower vet bills but about making an immediate difference to your cat’s overall health and, subsequently, the longevity and quality of life. Still, even the highest-quality bag of kibble can lose its freshness or even go bad completely if not stored appropriately, at which point we end up with upset stomachs, loose stools, food poisonings, and the like. As for the question of what you can do about it, how you can store cat food properly, committing to a quick read of this article is the sign you’re headed in the right direction.

The importance of the ‘best by’ date

It is important that you take a step back and reflect on the importance of purchasing the freshest food bag (or can) on the shelf. We should make a habit of checking the expiry dates and buying the food which expires far in the future. Both wet and dry cat food always have an expiration date, and it is usually stamped on the bottom or the side of the package.

Inspect the packaging before you make a purchase

Also, never forget to examine the food packaging before purchasing it. If the cans are dented, leaking, or bulging, and the bags have any tears, rips, or discoloration on them, then a good storage solution and earning how to store cat food properly will not be of much help at all, as the contents are certain to go bad a lot faster. Therefore, you should inspect each bag or container before taking it home with you to your cat, as any damage on the surface could be a direct indicator that the contents have been exposed and, thus, contaminated. Another good rule of thumb is not purchasing large packages of food, unless you are a proud owner of multiple cats, because like that, you will ensure all of it is fresh when served.

Storing dry cat food

What to protect it from?

The natural antioxidants of your cat’s dry food are meant to preserve food from fat oxidation that destroys the content’s vitamins and causes rancidity. However, once the bag is open, its contents are immediately exposed to environmental elements that accelerate the spoilage through the oxidation of the fats. To make sure that the food keeps its nutritional value and remains fresh, you need to avoid the following:

1. Exposure to air. Although it is unreasonable to think you can remove all air from an opened package, you can at least protect its contents by keeping it tightly closed. Press on the bag to release as much air as possible before rolling the bag’s top edges and keeping it closed with either a clothespin, tape, or a clip.

2. Sunlight. Avoid leaving the bag directly under the sunlight because it elevates both the food & temperature, eventually causing it to spoil more quickly, and humidity levels, which is the main culprit for mold.

3. Hot temperatures. Keep the bags in a cool dark area, away from heat sources, such as the radiators, and preferably in a temperature not higher than 20°C.

4. Humidity. All dehydrated foods are quick to absorb moisture, so it is essential to keep them safe from all water sources, as moisture absorption might promote the growth of bacteria and fungi.

5. Pests. It is no secret that food attracts various pests, such as insects and rodents. For this reason, it is highly advisable that you keep them from accessing it.

Where to keep it?

To protect the cat food from the environmental elements and pest infestation, you need to know how to store it properly. You should never throw away its original packaging. It is made of a special material designed to protect the freshness and keep pests away. Therefore, it is the best option to store cat food properly (this especially goes for high-quality food bags) and always keep it tightly closed.

For extra protection, whether in storage or your home, you can put the original packaging inside of a container - most preferably, a glass or porcelain one - and then close it with a lid. Lastly, dry cat food should be consumed 6-8 weeks from the moment you open the bag.

In case your preferred way of shopping for cat’s food is ordering it in larger quantities, then you most probably keep it somewhere outside of your home. Wherever you store it, just remember that this space has to be dry, cool, and away from direct sunlight. And, since garages and balconies belong to a category of uncontrolled environments, climate-controlled storage is your best option.

Storing wet cat food

When closed, canned cat food can retain its freshness for years if you store it in a dry and cool location, like, for instance, your pantry area. On the other hand, it is best to be sure that your cat will eat it at one stroke upon opening because open canned food will spoil very quickly.

If your cat eats only half, you can keep it stored in your refrigerator, but no longer than a day or two. Also, remember to either seal the can in a plastic wrap or use a plastic pet food lid on the top of the can to minimize the effect of air exposure and prevent moisture loss. If you have already poured all of it into a bowl, as far as the nutrition dos and don’ts are concerned, leaving it to sit at a normal room temperature longer than an hour or two is a big no-no.

If wet pet food comes in a bag instead of a can, what your cat doesn’t consume can be left inside if you fold down the bag’s edges, tightly fix it with tape or a clip and then store it in the fridge. Still, it is best that your cat consumes it or that you discard it within the first 24 hours.

We all want to do the best for our pets to ensure they live a happy, healthy and long life. Dental hygiene, vaccinations, regular vet visits are all important. But the diet of our pets is what really makes a difference in their quality of life and what will prevent many health problems.

Click HERE to see what products we recommend or on the links in the article to see where it takes you.

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

Nutrition do's and don'ts for cats

Nothing can substitute a good diet and its health benefits and cats are no exception to this rule. The best way to make your cat friend thrive is to provide it with the best possible nutrition, love, and care. And don't forget: cats in the wild are obligate carnivores, unlike dogs who act more like omnivores.

Even though its lifestyle greatly differs from her ancestors', your cat likely still retains most of her instincts and nutritional requirements. It means that it requires food almost entirely based on protein and fat. With that in mind, nutrition for cats and its do's and don'ts are based on a few very simple rules.

Insight into cat nutrition

It is extremely important to maintain a strong relationship between your cat and its veterinarian, since only they can recommend the best diet for your feline pet. This is partly due to varying requirements cats have at different life stages. Pregnant and lactating cats will need certain supplements in their diet, newborns will drink only milk for a few weeks, and young, adult, and senior cats will all have different nutritional needs.

Throughout your cat's life, you will need to change and adjust its diet, as carefully as possible. Sometimes, you might need to reach out for supplements and vitamins, but only after consulting your cat's veterinarian. Finally, you should avoid common feeding mistakes in cats to keep your pet healthy. Grass that felines sometimes munch on helps with the process of digestion but doesn't have nutritional value. It is a mistake to assume that a diet rich in vegetables benefits cats, as they don't have the enzymes needed to digest veggies.

The most important cat nutrition do's and don'ts

When you're buying cat food, take a good look at the nutrition table on the packaging as well as the list of ingredients. If the list starts with carbohydrates or the list of grains and vegetables is longer than the list of meat, avoid the product. Carbs make cat food less expensive, but cheap cat food will actually cost you more in the long run, not to mention that it is likely not beneficial to your cat.

A way of providing proper nutrition for cats is in the balancing act between an affordable and nutritious diet. However, it is not only food that matters in a cat's life, even though cats make it seem like that. Note that only a happy living environment for your furry friend combined with proper nutrition will keep your cat healthy and extend its life.

Cat nutrition do's

• Always look for a note from the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) on the cat food packaging stating that the food is balanced and meets cats’ nutritional requirements.

• Feed your cat at dawn and dusk, as those are the times they would normally hunt for food in nature. Most cats will eat only as much as they need, so you can leave the food out. However, if your pet is not a very good judge of that, always feed them at a specific time and then put all the food away until the next meal.

• On average, a cat's ideal daily intake is about 200 calories, although the number of calories depends on the cat's age, size, and lifestyle. Your cat's vet will tell you exactly how much your pet should eat in a day.

• If your pet's favorite food is not sold anymore, you need to know how to best change your cat's food to a new brand and maintain its required nutritional value. Once again, read the labels carefully and consult with the vet.

• Give commercial cat food to your pet, as it is specifically formulated for cats. However, if you wish to feed your cat the food that you've prepared, talk to your vet first.

• Make sure your cat has its own food bowl and wash it regularly to prevent the build-up of harmful bacteria.

• Always make sure that your cat has access to fresh drinking water, especially during hot months. If their diet consists mostly of wet food (moisture content of about 75% to 78% water) cats will drink less water, but they still need it. In comparison, the water content in dry foods ranges from 6% to 10%.

Cat nutrition don'ts

• Avoid giving your cat cow's milk and raw eggs. Cats are lactose intolerant. Aside from the risk of salmonella, frequent consumption of raw eggs can cause skin inflammation, hair loss, and poor hair growth to your cat.

• Don't overdo it with raw meat. While raw meat is the closest to what they'd eat in the wild, it also may contain bacteria such as salmonella, listeria, E. coli, or parasites. Take very good care when you're feeding your cat raw meat.

• Don't give your cat raw fish. Raw fish contains an enzyme that destroys thiamine (vitamin B1), whose deficiency causes serious neurological problems in cats, even leading to convulsions and, in the worst-case scenario, coma.

• Don't provide vitamins and supplements to your cat if they already have a balanced diet. A vitamin overdose for cats and humans alike is dangerous just like a vitamin deficiency. If your cat has some health issues, then vitamins, supplements, and cat nutrition go hand in hand, with the vet's approval, of course.

• Don't give your cat your leftovers or too many treats between meals. Most human food is not nutritious to cats, and too many treats will surely lead to obesity. How many treats is optimal? Between 5% and 10% of their daily calory intake.

• Don't let the wet food sit in your cat's bowl for too long. After an hour, there will be too much bacteria, causing your cat digestive problems.

If your cat ever becomes overweight, it is partly due to an unbalanced diet and partly due to lack of activity. Your vet will study your cat's case and recommend the best course of action.

Click HERE to see what products we recommend or on the pictures and the links in the article to see where it takes you.

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

Cat Vaccinations 101: Everything You Need to Know

We can all agree that vaccines are vital as they keep some of the worst diseases at bay. When it comes to cats vaccines, there are many widespread rumours on their side effects. This has left many cat owners asking whether to or not to vaccinate their furry friends. To put your mind at ease, here is everything you need to know about cat vaccinations.

Are Vaccines Necessary?

Vaccines protect your cat against fatal and contagious diseases. Vaccines also help your cat fight future infections as they trigger immune responses.  Cat vaccinations have saved many felines from some of the worst diseases. They have also rendered some past common diseases rare. So yes, vaccines are an absolute necessity if you want to keep your pet in good health.

There are two types of cat’s vaccines:

• Core vaccines

• Non-core vaccines

When you choose a kitty from us you will have peace of mind that we include in all our cats age-appropriate vaccinations, plus:

• First year’s Rabies vaccine

• Spay/neuter

• Testing for feline diseases

• Microchip

• De-flea/De-worm treatments

• TICA paperwork

Related: How To Maintain Good Dental Hygiene For Your Pets

Core Vaccines for Cats

The core or mandatory cat vaccines are provided by the Feline Vaccination Advisory Panel after regular evaluations and research on feline health and recent developments. Currently, there are four core cat vaccinations, as explained below:

Rabies – Rabies is a highly contagious disease. There is also no cure for this disease which is why your cat needs to get vaccinated. Your cat will get rabies from a bite from an infected mammal. The illness incubation period is around two months, after which your cat will exhibit signs of disorientation and aggression. The rabies vaccine is mandatory in many regions, and it is vital as it keeps you and your pet safe.

FVRCP Vaccine - The Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus and Panleukopenia vaccine is also referred to as distemper. This vaccine is a three in one vaccine that protects your furry friend from feline distemper.  

This vaccine combines the below three vaccines:

1. FPV vaccine - The FPV vaccine protects your cat from the Feline panleukopenia disease, which is highly infectious. The early signs of this disease are low appetite, lack of energy, diarrhoea and vomiting. The illness also lowers your cat white blood cells as the illness attacks your feline’s bone marrow and immune system. 

2. FHV-1 Vaccine - This vaccine protects your cat from the Feline herpesvirus that causes a severe respiratory infection that affects your cat’s throat and nose. Some cats will not exhibit any symptoms, although they act as carriers and will spread the virus to others.  The symptoms of this illness include nasal congestion, uncontrollable sneezing, blepharospasm, conjunctivitis and fever. Kittens and pregnant cats are at a higher risk of getting this illness. The disease is common in homes with multiple cats. There’s some good information on what paperwork you’ll need when you get a cat and want health insurance here. 

3. FCV Vaccine - This vaccine protects your cats from the Feline calicivirus. The calicivirus affects your cat’s tract, mouth, intestines and musculoskeletal system. It's highly infectious and can occur in cats of all ages. However, kittens aged six weeks and above are at a higher risk of being infected. It commonly occurs among kittens that live in multi-cat homes and households that are poorly ventilated. 

Non-Core Cat Vaccinations

Some cat vaccines aren’t mandatory, but your vet will recommend them if your pet is susceptible to a particular disease. Here are some of the optional cat vaccinations.

FeLV Vaccine - The FeLV vaccine protects your cat from Feline Leukemia. Cats with this illness often become anaemic and are likely to suffer from other infections due to reduced immunity. Feline leukaemia is passed from one cat to another through blood, saliva, urine and faeces. Kittens can also contract the disease through their mother's infected milk. Even a healthy cat may spread the virus as cats with the infection often go through a regressive stage. 

Bordetella -The Bordetella virus causes upper respiratory abnormalities in your cat and dog. It is spread through the air or contact with an infected pet. This vaccination is often recommended for pets that visit a groomer or cats that board or visit daycares. 

Feline immunodeficiency (FIV) - Feline immunodeficiency is a viral infection that makes your cat’s immune system weak, leading to secondary infections. The disease is passed from cat to cat through deep bites from an infected mother to her kitten. It is often recommended to cats who play outdoors as this is where aggressive territorial fights often occur. 

Chlamydophila Felis - The Feline chlamydophila disease is a type of bacterial infection that causes conjunctivitis and ocular infections. Infection is usually through direct contact with an infected cat. Symptoms are seen a few days after infection in the form of watery eye discharge, discomfort and pain in the eye. Your sick cat may also have a fever and nasal discharge. If untreated, the infected cat sheds the bacteria in the form of ocular secretions infecting other healthy cats.

Cat Vaccines Adverse Effects

Every vaccine comes with some risk. However, the adverse effects of vaccination in cats are less than 1%. Such effects are also mild in the form of fever, lethargy and inflammation.

Sarcoma, which is the growth of a cancerous mass at the place of vaccination is one of the most debated cat vaccination effects. Sarcoma is rare as it occurs in 1-10 of every 10,000 vaccinated cats. 

Nonetheless, it’s good to monitor your cat’s injection site for any swelling. If the swelling persists for more than a month after vaccination, surgery can be done to treat it.

Vaccinations are necessary for your pet. They keep them healthy and also trigger your feline’s immunity. Your vet will help with a suitable vaccination schedule for your pet based on their age, vaccination history and their exposure to various diseases.

Click on the pictures or the links in the article to see where it takes you.

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

Secondhand Smoke and Pets

Those who have pets understand that our animals’ happiness and wellbeing is of paramount importance. But often we do not realize that our own habits can affect the health of our favorite animals. By understanding the facts of second-hand smoke, we can find out how best to protect those we love, and what we can do to prevent unnecessary health issues in our pets, caused by the toxins in second-hand smoke. 

 What is Second-Hand Smoke? 

Second-hand smoke is the smoke or fumes that occur as a consequence of smoking cigarettes or other tobacco products. Often referred to as ‘Passive Smoking’, this smoke is often invisible, so no matter how much you attempt to control the fumes you are producing as a bi-product when you smoke, the largest percentage will still be inhaled by those around you. 

 Second-Hand Smoke: The Facts

Health guidelines around smoking and the dangers of second-hand smoke are well published.

The truth is:

-       That secondhand smoke causes approximately 7,330 deaths from lung cancer, and 33, 950 deaths from heart failure each year. 

-       All exposure to second-hand smoke carries a risk- there is no risk-free level of exposure, and;

-       It only takes 20-30 minutes to cause excess blood clotting increasing the risk of a heart attack.

-       It severely affects those with asthma, leading to more frequent and severe asthma attacks.

-       More minor problems are ear infections and respiratory infections such as bronchitis. 

-       Second-hand smoke can lead to what is known as ‘third-hand smoke’, which is a cocktail of toxins that cling to carpets, upholstery and clothes and can be a hazard to infants and children. 

-       Second-hand smoke stays in a room for 5 hours, meaning one cigarette can cause 5 hours of harmful toxins in one room. 

  Effects of Second-Hand Smoke on Pets

As previously stated, there is no risk-free level of passive smoke exposure, and this also applies to pets. Extensive research has found that pets are even more susceptible to second-hand smoke-related problems than humans. 

-       Exposure in dogs has been linked to eye irritations, infections, greater occurrence of allergies, and respiratory problems (including lung tumors). 

-       Cats are likely to even more likely to develop problems than dogs, as they meticulously groom themselves using their tongues. This means that they can ingest the tar, smoke and carcinogens as they land on their fur and surfaces around the house causing throat and lung diseases and cancers. 

-       Other common household pets are birds, who can have their eyesight affected and gain respiratory problems from second-hand smoke. Nicotine residue on a smoker’s hand when touching the bird may also cause skin problems. 

-       Reptiles such as snakes and lizards are also commonly kept as pets. Their lungs are smaller and more delicate than that of mammals, and therefore can become more irritated by second-hand smoke and develop lung and respiratory problems and diseases.

You can find the full resource on smoking around pets here.

 Solutions

Clearly the effects on our beloved pets can be detrimental, and so naturally, we would want to reduce these effects. Some ways you can help lower the risks for your animals are:

-       Smoking outside with the door closed can help prevent the damaging particles from collecting on upholstery and pet fur. 

-       Never leave ashtrays or cigarette butts where pets can get hold of them 

-       Always wash your hands after smoking to reduce contact issues

-       Regularly clean carpets and upholstery, steaming them where you can, to remove carcinogens and toxic particles. 

How to Get Help Quitting

Whilst the aforementioned preventative measures can help, the best way to avoid health problems for your pet from second-hand smoking is to quit. This can feel like a daunting task but there are many services available to help. Smokefree.gov is a government scheme to help you quit effectively, to help your health and the health of your pet.

Click on the pictures to see where it takes you and the links in the article.

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

How To Maintain Good Dental Hygiene For Your Pets

Pets are great companions. While it may be fun having them around, things can get ugly when they have bad dental hygiene. If you’re a pet owner, you know how unpleasant it is to have a pet with bad breath. Many people assume that bad breath is normal for pets, but in truth, it can be a sign of gum or periodontal disease.

Just like your health, your pets' healthcare and wellness are also important. Studies show that more than 80% of pets over three years old have periodontal disease. That's quite a large percentage for an easily preventable disease. 

Here are some tips you can use to keep your pet's dental hygiene in check:

Brush Their Teeth Regularly 

It's not the most fun thing to do, but hey, it'll help prevent a lot of problems down the road. Brushing your pet's teeth is the first step in maintaining good dental hygiene. You don't have to brush them daily—two or three times a week will work just fine. Plaque starts accumulating after some hours of brushing, and that's why brushing is important to prevent the over-accumulation of plaque.  

When brushing, use a soft-bristled pet toothbrush or a finger brush and a pet toothpaste. Concentrate on the outer surface of the teeth and be sure to reach the teeth in the back of the mouth. Be sure to use both toothbrush and toothpaste made specifically for pets. Human toothpaste can be harmful to pets if swallowed.  

At first, some pets might be resistant to brushing, but you can start slow as you train them to tolerate the process. It’s even better if you start when they’re younger. Over time, they’ll get used to brushing regularly. 

Feed Them The Right Diet 

The foods your pets eat play a key role in their dental hygiene. Homemade meals are good, but they’re not always the best choice for your pet's dental hygiene. Avoid feeding your pets toxic foods. A generally balanced meal is the best option for keeping their dental hygiene healthy. Kibble is a great option for most pets. Their ingredients help minimize plaque and tartar accumulation. 

There's also a debate on choosing between canned (wet) food or dry food for pets. Both are okay, but dry food is generally the better option because they keep the teeth healthy by reducing plaque and tartar accumulation. Canned foods may cause plaque and tartar accumulation, which can later lead to more serious dental problems. On the brighter side, canned foods help keep your pets hydrated, which is something that dry food can't do. 

Dental Treats 

Dental treats such as rawhide chews, dental bones, and dental biscuits for dogs, and dental chews for cats can help reduce the plaque and tartar accumulation. Dental treats mechanically scrub off the plaque and tartar from the pet's teeth, and they can be great substitutes for brushing teeth.  

However, you need to be careful when giving treats. Avoid very hard and cut bones to minimize the risk of dental fractures, and match a treat according to your pet's size. Remember, swallowing excessively large chunks of treats can cause choking. The general rule of thumb for treats is that, the smaller the pet, the smaller the treat. 

Dental Toys  

Dental toys are not edible, but they’re used to keep your pets busy and engaged. Chewing dental toys can help remove bacteria from the pet's mouth. Dental toys can also be used to distract them from chewing items they’re not supposed to. Some good dental toys include durables, plaque attackers, and dental balls. 

Regular Dental Checkup 

Your pet won't inform you when they have dental issues, and it's up to you to figure out when there's a problem. Look out for these signs of dental disease. 

• Bad breath 

• Bleeding gums 

• Visible yellow or brown tartar 

• Losing teeth 

• Bloody saliva 

• Difficulty chewing  

• Blood left on chew toys 

If you pay close attention, you’ll also notice a behavior change in your pet, which can be a sign that they’re not healthy. Be sure also to seek professional pet teeth cleaning services annually for a more comprehensive checkup.

Wrapping Up

There comes a time when you need professional help for your pet. This is when the situation has gotten out of hand, and not even home remedies can help. Professional vets are more experienced and they’ll help ensure the health and wellness of your pets. They’ll also conduct a thorough dental examination to figure out the problem, and prescribe the necessary medication.

Click on the pictures to see where it takes you and the links in the article.

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

Teaching Your Cat to Wear a Harness 101

Caption: Keep your cat safer when outside by teaching it to wear a harness

Cats are often thought of as homebodies. They seem to enjoy lazing around, napping, keeping you company as you work or simply going about your day. However, every animal requires some physical activity in order to stay healthy, and this is true of cats as well. Even if you have managed to make your home really cat-friendly, cats also have a natural curiosity that cannot be completely sated by only exploring their immediate surroundings. If you want to help your cat explore further without compromising its safety, there are some precautions you will want to take. A big part of that will be wearing a harness. The easy steps that follow make up what we call teaching your cat to wear a harness 101. This will help you offer more freedom to your pet without jeopardizing its health.

The reasons for harness training your cat

As mentioned above, cats are curious and adventurous creatures. Certain breeds of cats are very smart and need constant stimuli to thrive. They like to explore. However, many people have very negative opinions of free-roaming cats. Because they are known to do things like dig or chase after birds on their property, many consider them pests. Throughout the US, free-roaming outdoor cats are often shot, stolen, or poisoned for these reasons. This is probably the main reason why it is a good idea to train your cat to walk on a leash.

Even if you are lucky enough to be living in a pet-friendly neighborhood where no mean neighbor will even think about poisoning your cat, the great outdoors can still be fraught with danger. Letting your cat go outside without supervision leaves it more exposed to various dangers. It can get hit by a car or harmed by other animals. Even more importantly, a free-roaming cat is vulnerable to a myriad of diseases. Many of these are hard to detect or test for, but your cat can even pass them on to other animals in your household. Learning how to train a cat to walk on a leash and harness is of utmost importance for its health and safety.

How to harness train your cat

Get a harness

The first is the obvious step – purchase a harness. Before trying to do anything more, simply put it on your cat for a couple of days to let it get used to the feel of the harness. In many cases, your pet won’t be too enthusiastic about the new addition – quite the opposite. However, there are things you can do to comfort your cat during the adjustment period. One of the ways of harness training your cat is to stroke it while the harness is on or give it treats. You can also put it on before it plays with a toy or enjoys a meal. Whatever it is you have to do, the aim is to get your pet to feel comfortable wearing the harness.

When choosing a harness, ensure it has good chest coverage. Avoid attaching the leash straight to the collar as this can be very uncomfortable for your cat. Some cats are even able to wiggle out of it, making them a flight risk. The leash should be light and gentle, though it will still take some time for your cat to adjust to it.

Venture outside

Once your cat has adjusted to the feel of the harness, attach the leash to it and venture outside. Before taking to the streets, though, you should find a quiet outside area, possibly one that is enclosed or secluded from the street in one way or another. There shouldn’t be any loud noises from traffic or anything else that would scare your pet. Your backyard or garden would be perfect for this step. You could even do it on a porch. Now, the key ingredient in teaching your cat to wear a harness is patience. What you should do once you’re outside is let your cat take its time when it comes to exploring the environment. You can start by sitting down and letting your cat sit on your lap. Slowly, you will notice it beginning to wander around.

Broaden the perimeter

If your cat seemed comfortable roaming around your garden on a leash, you can then try going further. Try to find a place that is not too loud or with too much foot traffic to let your cat explore. While your cat roams around, always be on the lookout for animals that might attack it. Bear in mind that walking a cat will be quite different from walking a dog. Cats are much more prone to really exploring something that catches their attention. So, walking your cat might involve a lot of standing around as it smells something or stares at it. Again, knowing how to train a cat to walk on a leash and harness will require a lot of patience.

Safety

Before teaching your cat to wear a harness, make sure it has received all of its medications and shots. Microchipping your cat might be a good idea if you plan on walking it. No matter how safe you are being, it could happen that your cat just wanders off without you. You should also be aware that cats are much more difficult to turn away from the object of their attention than dogs. You shouldn’t pull hard on the leash in an effort to change the direction your cat is taking. This will only make it react negatively. However, if you believe its safety is at stake, just hold tightly on the leash without giving in and your cat will give up eventually. All in all, being caring and patient is at the root of teaching your cat to wear a harness 101.

Click on the pictures to see where it takes you and the links in the article.

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

Best ways to transport cats long-distance

Cats are not fond of moving, that is a simple fact. Quite often, they tend to react by being irritable, scared, and even aggressive after relocation. The last thing you want is to regret taking this step in the first place. So, instead of just putting your cat in a car/on a plane and expecting that everything's going to be fine, you should make a thorough plan of your relocation with your pet. The first thing on your list is researching the best ways to transport cats long-distance.

Your pet's health is what matters the most

A visit to your cat's veterinarian is a good idea even if you are taking him on a holiday with you, let alone if you are moving long-distance with your feline. Make sure that your cat's health record and vaccinations are up to date and have your cat's health condition checked. Use this appointment to discuss some potential issues regarding your pet with the health professional. For instance, you can find out what their opinion about microchipping is because it can be rather useful in case your cat gets lost during the relocation. Also, you can ask your vet to recommend a colleague in your future hometown.

Your vet can also advise you on which type of transport they think would be the most suitable for your pet and what equipment to use for that purpose. Also, they will tell you whether sedating your pet for the trip is a good idea and how your cat can get a passport. After you solve all your dilemmas about your cat, you will be able to move with ease across the US, or even across the world.

The equipment - what to pick?

Your cat will need a leash and cat harness if you are taking him on a long-distance trip. At the airport, you will have to take your cat out of the carrier before it goes through an X-ray screening procedure and that's when he will have to be on a leash. In the car, letting your cat ramble around can be extremely unsafe for both of you. So, the leash and a harness are the first things you should buy and get your pet accustomed to. But, that's not all.

A carrier or a crate?

If you will be transporting your cat by plane, you will have to get a carrier. But before going to the store, you should check which model the airline company allows - soft or hard-sided ones. The dimensions of the carrier are crucial here too since you will have to put it underneath the seat of the person sitting in front of you. Some airlines are even exclusive about the brand they prefer.

Crates are bigger than carriers, but you can only use them if you are transporting your cat in a car. The most practical are those with more than one opening. Both carriers and crates should have enough room for your cat to turn around and stretch. Don't forget that you will have to fit in a litter box too.

Long-distance move - car vs. plane

Let's be honest - your cat will probably not enjoy any of the two types of transportation, but that's why you are there to make this process less stressful for your pet. Whatever you choose, remember not to feed your cat three to four hours before the trip to avoid motion sickness, but at the same time give your cat plenty of water to drink. That is an important step in preparation for a move.

Is a car the best way to transport cats long-distance?

If you don't feel comfortable about your cat being transported by plane, you will have to take a road trip with him. But, don't worry, this can be fun! As long as you choose the right equipment and respect the daily routines your pet has. Sure, the ride will take longer, but at least your best friend won't be traumatized once you arrive at your new home.

Don't even think about an all-night ride. They are neither safe for you nor pleasant for your cat. When planning a move, look for a hotel/motel where you can stop and rest for the night or two while moving long-distance. Once you find the one you would like to book, double-check whether they welcome cats since "pet-friendly" usually refers to dogs, and you wouldn't like to be unpleasantly surprised amid your trip.

Many cats are rather anxious about riding in a car. However, you can train them by taking short rides for several days before the long trip. Take their favorite toy with you as well. Here's the most important safety tip: your cat should be leashed or harnessed during the entire trip! You shouldn't be distracted while driving and your cat will be safe whenever you open the door or a window.

Or, should you opt for a plane?

Many vets will advise you to avoid transporting cats on a plane. But, if that's the only option you have, you should at least make sure that he is with you through the entire trip. That means transporting your cat in a cabin. Before you book the ticket, you should contact the airline company and inform them that you'll be traveling with a feline. Most companies are fine with that, but there is only a certain number of pets allowed on board at the same time, so you should book your ticket early. Also, consult the airline about the type of carrier you should have. Some companies allow soft-sided, while some will only let you use the hard-sided carriers.

Putting your cat in the cargo hold should be your last option. Unfortunately, many pets get stressed out or even injured while being taken on a trip this way. The cargo areas are rarely airconditioned which can be a problem for any creature traveling in them. Poor ventilation is also an issue.

Whenever you are traveling with your cat, you should make sure that he has a collar with your contact info on it. This is extremely important if you choose to transport cats long-distance on a plane.

Once you arrive at the destination

Don't expect your cat to love your new home right away. When you arrive, you should cat-proof your home before letting the cat out of the crate or carrier. Have a treat with you to reward your pet and to help them adjust to a new home more easily.

We hope we have helped you decide what the best ways to transport cats long-distance are. Enjoy your new home with your old friend, you deserve it!

Click on the pictures to see where it takes you and the links in the article.

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN