The Petster https://thepetster.com/ Pets Care partner Tue, 09 Apr 2024 05:28:19 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5 https://thepetster.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/cropped-the-petster-high-resolution-logo-3710195-8625031-32x32.png The Petster https://thepetster.com/ 32 32 Should My Pet Be Tested for COVID-19? https://thepetster.com/should-my-pet-be-tested-for-covid-19/ https://thepetster.com/should-my-pet-be-tested-for-covid-19/#respond Mon, 08 Jan 2024 02:45:41 +0000 https://thepetster.com/2024/01/08/should-my-pet-be-tested-for-covid-19/ If your cat or dog is coughing, the good news is that it’s probably not due to COVID-19. Experts from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)  and the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) agree that COVID-19 is predominantly a human illness, and it’s unlikely for pets to be infected with the coronavirus that causes COVID-19. ... Read more

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If your cat or dog is coughing, the good news is that it’s probably not due to COVID-19. Experts from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)  and the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) agree that COVID-19 is predominantly a human illness, and it’s unlikely for pets to be infected with the coronavirus that causes COVID-19. There are many types of viruses that can make cats or dogs sick. So, your veterinarian will check your pet to make sure that the symptoms aren’t being caused by a more common virus or other health problem.

Opinions about testing pets for COVID-19 are changing as we learn more about the virus and cases around the world. Public health authorities and veterinarians are working together to determine if an animal should be tested. Right now, there’s no evidence that dogs or cats can spread the virus to people. But there is growing evidence that in rare cases people may be able to infect animals. In the past month, two dogs and a cat in Hong Kong, a cat in Belgium, and a tiger at the Bronx Zoo in New York City were found to have been infected. In each situation, there was exposure to a COVID-19 positive person.

If your cat or dog is sick, the best thing to do is speak with your veterinarian. Be sure to let them know if your pet has been exposed to anyone who has COVID-19. Your veterinarian will let you know what to do and will work with public health authorities to determine if a test is recommended.

Every few weeks, my exotic pet hospital in New York receives a call from a desperate exotic pet owner somewhere far away seeking advice about their sick pet. Sometimes it’s about a reptile, sometimes about a bird or bunny. The caller might be from the Midwest, Canada, or even from another continent. Unfortunately, in most cases, there is little we can recommend over the phone, and we generally advise pet-owner to take their animals to an exotic pet-savvy veterinarian to be examined. While there are several great resources online directing people to terrific local vets who are comfortable treating exotic species, for some people in certain remote locations, exotic pet veterinarians can be hard to find. What are the most important things to look for when you are seeking out care for an exotic pet vet? Here are 5 essential considerations:

1. How many (snakes, birds, ferrets, rabbits, whatever species) has this vet ever treated?

While the practice may not always make perfect, it certainly makes better. The more of any given species a veterinarian sees, the more likely that he or she is to recognize the disease and be able to recommend the appropriate treatment. Most vets receive little to no training in school on exotic animal species, so if they really want to learn about how to care for these animals, they have to seek out information on their own. These vets who take the initiative to go the extra mile to learn about exotic pets are the vets you’d want to see.

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2. Is the veterinary hospital set up to accommodate exotic pets?

While many cat and dog hospitals will see exotic pets, they often do so because they are the only game in town. Many cat and dog hospitals will only treat an exotic pet when no one else will, and the pet is really sick. You can really tell whether a veterinary hospital is set up to treat exotic pets if they have some of the basic equipment and supplies needed to do so, such as a small scale that weighs in grams for weighing little exotic pets or a tank for safely enclosing a reptile. If they have no equipment specifically designed for treating and examining typically smaller exotic patients, it is likely they don’t treat many of them.

3. Are the veterinary technicians comfortable handling exotic patients?

Knowing how to safely handle exotic pets is truly an art that takes years to master. Most exotic animals are prey species that become stressed when restrained. No matter how good a veterinarian may be at the medical care of exotic species, without great technical staff to comfortably hold these animals, that vet cannot perform great medical care. By just watching how veterinary technicians restrain and manipulate your exotic pet, you can get an idea about how often they actually handle exotic pets. Technicians and veterinarians trained in exotic pet restraint should be relaxed and have a plan on how to pick up and hold your pet. If they are floundering around trying to figure out how to catch your pet, their experience is very likely limited.

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4. Are the veterinarians and/or the veterinary staff members of any exotic pet professional organizations?

There are several professional exotic animal groups, such as the Association of Avian Veterinarians, the Association of Exotic Mammal Veterinarians, and the Association of Reptilian and Amphibian Veterinarians, to which many veterinarians who are interested in exotic pet care belong. These organizations provide continuing education to veterinary professionals, and typically, individuals who want to remain knowledgeable in exotic pet care will join one or more of these groups to stay current. Veterinarians who belong to these groups typically display the organization’s logo on a decal in their hospitals’ window or printed on their hospitals’ client literature. Each of these organizations have websites, too, that list current members geographically. If a vet has taken the time and money to join any of these organizations, then he or she at least has a strong interest in exotic pets.

5. Does the veterinary hospital provide care for exotic pet emergencies?

This is something most exotic pet owners don’t think about until they are faced with their own pets’ emergency. While a few animal hospitals have veterinarians on call and technicians who remain in the hospital overnight to care for critical cases, the most veterinary hospitals are not open 24/7 but have arrangements with local 24-hour emergency clinics to care for their patients overnight and on emergency basis. However, while local emergency clinics are generally happy to take in dog and cat emergencies, they are not always equipped to handle exotic pet emergencies. When choosing an animal hospital to care for your unique exotic pet, be sure to ask the veterinary staff exactly how they handle exotic pet patients with emergencies after hours. If they have no contingency plan, they likely treat very few exotics. Just as your dog and cat vet should have a plan for after-hours emergencies, so should your exotic pet vet. This is perhaps the most important question to consider when choosing a doctor for your beloved pet. Don’t be afraid to ask it. The answer could be the difference between life and death.

When it comes to caring for your cat, I have a few simple recommendations:

  • Maintain a safe environment (keep him indoors)
  • Feed a high-quality food (e.g., a meat-based protein)
  • Think about preventive care (e.g., an annual physical examination, laboratory tests, and the appropriate vaccines)
  • Provide lots of affection and exercise

By following these basic tips, you can help keep your four-legged, feline friends healthy–potentially for decades! But as cat guardians, you should also be aware of five “silent” killers in cats. By knowing what the most common silent killers are, you can know what clinical signs to look for. With most of these diseases, the sooner the clinical signs are recognized, the sooner we veterinarians can treat them.

1. Chronic kidney disease

One of the top silent killers of cats is chronic kidney disease (CKD) (This is sometimes called a chronic renal failure or chronic kidney injury). These terms are all semantically the same, and basically mean that 75% of both the kidneys are ineffective and not working. Clinical signs of CRD include:

  • Excessive drinking
  • Excessive urinating
  • Larger clumps in the litter box
  • Weight loss
  • Bad breath (due to toxins building up in the blood and causing ulcers in the mouth, oesophagus, and stomach)
  • Lethargy
  • Hiding

Thankfully, with appropriate management, cats can live with CKD for years (unlike dogs where CKD usually progresses more rapidly). Chronic management may include a low-protein diet, frequent blood work, increasing water intake (e.g., with a water fountain or by feeding a gruelling canned food), medications and even fluids under the skin (which many pet guardians do at home, once properly trained).

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2. Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is an endocrine disease where the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. This is seen in middle-aged to geriatric cats and can result in very similar clinical signs to chronic kidney disease including:

  • Excessive thirst
  • Increased water consumption/urination
  • Vomiting/diarrhoea
  • Weight loss

However, as hyperthyroidism increases the metabolism of cats, it causes one defining sign: a ravenous appetite despite weight loss. It can also result in:

  • A racing heart rate
  • Severe hypertension (resulting in acute blood loss, neurologic signs, or even a clot or stroke)
  • Secondary organ injury (e.g., a heart murmur or changes to the kidney)

Thankfully, treatment for hyperthyroidism is very effective and includes either a medication (called methimazole, surgical removal of the thyroid glands (less commonly done), a special prescription diet called y/d® Feline Thyroid Health) or I131 radioiodine therapy. With hyperthyroidism, the sooner you treat it, the fewer potential side effects or organ damage will occur in your cat.

3. Diabetes mellitus

Another costly, silent killer that affects cats is diabetes mellitus (DM). As many of our cats are often overweight to obese, they are at a greater risk for DM. With diabetes, the pancreas fails to secrete adequate amounts of insulin (Type I DM) or there is resistance to insulin (Type II DM). Insulin is a natural hormone that drives sugar (i.e., blood glucose) into the cells. As a result of the cells starving for glucose, the body makes more and more glucose, causing hyperglycemia (i.e., high blood sugar) and many of the clinical signs seen with DM. Common clinical signs for DM are similar to those of Chronic kidney disease and hyperthyroidism and include:

  • Excessive urination and thirst
  • Larger clumps in the litter box
  • An overweight or obese body condition with muscle wasting (especially over the spine or back) or weight loss
  • A decreased or ravenous appetite
  • Lethargy or weakness
  • Vomiting
  • Abnormal breath (e.g., acetone breath)
  • Walking abnormally (e.g., lower to the ground)

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Treatment for DM can be costly, as it requires twice-a-day insulin injections that you have to give under the skin. It also requires changes in diet (to a high protein, low carbohydrate diet), frequent blood glucose monitoring, and frequent veterinary visits. With supportive care and chronic management, cats can do reasonably well; however, once diabetic complications develop (e.g., diabetic ketoacidosis, hyperosmolar, hyperglycemic syndrome), DM can be life-threatening.

Macaws are undeniably gorgeous birds and have been popular pet parrots for decades. They are intelligent and affectionate and have exceedingly long lifespans, making them ideal for bird lovers around the world.

Many of the reasons that they are such unique and sought-after pets are also what make them a challenge for many owners; their large size, long lifespan, and noise levels are certainly not for beginners. There are 17 different species of Macaws, some of which make better pets than others and others that are endangered and should not be kept as pets.

Parrot rescue organizations are often filled with Macaws because people want to own one of these gorgeous birds but do not realize the full weight of the responsibility and eventually cannot manage it. Macaws most definitely make great pets, but whether they are the right pet for you is another consideration altogether.

In this article, we look at the aspects that make Macaws such great pets and the more difficult traits to be aware of. Let’s dive in.

Why Macaws make great pets

Macaws are hugely popular pets among bird enthusiasts, and there are several reasons for this. There are quite a few species of Macaws that are commonly kept as pets, including:

  • Blue and Gold Macaws
  • Green-Wing Macaws
  • Hyacinth Macaws
  • Military Macaws
  • Hahn’s Macaws
  • Scarlet Macaws
  • Various hybrid Macaws

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Let’s have a look at a few reasons that these birds make such great pets.

There is no denying the exotic beauty of a Macaw, no matter the species that you choose to keep as a pet. Blue and Gold Macaws are among the most popular, known for their beautiful blue-and-yellow plumage and affectionate relationships with their owners. Macaws can reach up to 3 feet tall, and they have large beaks and long tails and various striking color combinations. This is one of the main reasons that they are such popular pets — their appearance is simply unrivaled by other parrot species.

2.Affectionate

In the wild, Macaws are social birds that gather in flocks of 10 or more birds. When you keep a Macaw as a pet, you are now a vital member of their flock, and as such, they will develop a powerful bond with you. While they are wary of strangers and it’s unlikely that a Macaw that you’ve just met will want to cuddle up to you, they are almost puppy-like in affection with the people whom they know well. This is especially true if you’ve raised your Macaw from a young age, but even adopted adult Macaws will eventually warm up to their trusted companions.

Macaws typically mate for life, share their food with their mates and young, and have been shown to recognize their young and siblings and have long-term relationships with them.

Most experts agree that Macaws are among the most intelligent parrots in the world, second only to African Greys. Macaws are logical and discerning birds — hiding their food and picking out seeds that they don’t enjoy — and they have even been shown to be creative and solve complex puzzles with ease. Experiments in IQ and EQ have shown that Macaws are on par with a 2-3-year-old human child, and Macaws are known to display both love and jealousy in the same way too.

Macaws are highly trainable, can be taught a wide variety of tricks, and can mimic dozens of words and phrases and other sounds, like laughing, ringing phones, and singing.

Macaws have long lifespans of 50-75 years, often even more than that, and many will outlive their owners. With the right diet, plenty of exercises, and a happy, peaceful environment, these birds are exceedingly healthy and rarely suffer from any major health issues.

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How to Tame a Wild or Stray Cat? https://thepetster.com/how-to-tame-a-wild-or-stray-cat/ https://thepetster.com/how-to-tame-a-wild-or-stray-cat/#respond Sun, 07 Jan 2024 15:18:01 +0000 https://thepetster.com/2024/01/07/how-to-tame-a-wild-or-stray-cat/ Litter boxes are a necessary evil for cats. They produce all sorts of chemicals that shouldn’t be disposed of in the regular waste as they do their thing. There are plenty of ways to rid the litter box of smells without having to replace the entire fixture, but the more compact size of DIY litter ... Read more

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Litter boxes are a necessary evil for cats. They produce all sorts of chemicals that shouldn’t be disposed of in the regular waste as they do their thing. There are plenty of ways to rid the litter box of smells without having to replace the entire fixture, but the more compact size of DIY litter boxes makes them handy and eco-friendly solutions. In addition, adding an enclosure to your existing litter box lets you conveniently clean and maintain this often vacant area. Not only does this save you from having to purchase expensive and frequently useless accessories, but it also cuts down on the number of times the litter box needs to be emptied. Here at catandwood, you can buy a cat litter box enclosure meager price than the other source online.

Add Trim Around the Cat Door

(Image credit: Excited Cats)

If you’ve ever been concerned about cats entering your home, a tiny, almost invisible cat door may be your answer. Use pine, birch, or oak trim to construct a cover to fit over your cat door. The door itself is simple to find at any hardware store or thrift store, and it can do most of the doorway opening sizes. You can also download some DIY plans for this project to get you started. Cover Your Cat Wall Wall-mounted cat toys can be a super fun way to play with your cats, but they can get a little distracting if you’re trying to focus on the task at hand – keeping the litter box area in good shape. Keeping them off the floor lets you keep an eye on them and helps prevent them from jumping on a nearby human or pet.

Put a Litter Box Inside a Large Basket

                                                    Image by All the Little Details via Pinterest.

  1. This DIY is an easy DIY to make. Just take an empty basket, make a door, add wheels, and you’re done!
  2. You will need about five boxes and wire wool. First, cut the wire wool to size and push it into the box. Then, put in a bag of litter and load the basket with small paper towels. Finally, roll it around until it looks good.
  3. For a nice finish, you can add a handle to the basket. DIY Kitty Styling Station
  4. For this nifty hack, insert the litter box into a tall cupboard, using an anchor point at the top and bottom of the door. Ensure the top of the closet is at least 4 inches off the floor so that the foot does not contact the litter box.
  5. Using screws, create an extra shelf inside the cupboard where the litter box is stored.

Build a Mini Cat House Litter Cover

(Image credit: Laura Gummerman)

This feline-friendly version of a litter box is the perfect addition to your home. Wacky Adornments to Match Your Cat’s Personality These buttons and baubles will take a boring litter box design to a whole new level. Practical DIY Feline-Friendly Cat Litter Box This clever DIY project requires a few simple supplies, including a box cutter, spray paint, scrap wood, and one vinyl sticker. Proper Utensils for Any Cat Litter Box These feline-friendly tools are excellent for decluttering the litter box and cleaning up any extra messes your cat leaves behind. A Perfect Feline Storage Solution With a purpose-built tray, you’ll never have to deal with a dirty litter box again.

Keep the Litter Cabinet Organized

(Image credit: IKEAhackers)

Whether your cat is scared to go inside their new home or they just haven’t been able to adjust, it’s best to keep their litter box separate from the rest of the house until they adapt to their new environment. By creating a unique cabinet in their new home, you can display their litter box prominently and keep it neat. You can even make this clean and organized space within your existing cabinet to add a pop of color to the otherwise drab fixture. In addition, incorporate other decorative pieces that will give your wardrobe a cozy feel, such as a decorative rug, cutesy souvenirs, or decorative art. Add the Option of Shading the View Having a hidden litter box in your home can be very important to some people, and your cats are no exception.

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Paint a Pattern on a Basic Litter Box Cover

(Image credit: sugarandcloth)

One of the most accessible and attractive DIY litter boxes we’ve seen is the metal-wrapped cat litter box. You can give the top of this litter box an eye-catching touch by painting it in the pattern of your choice. This makes it an excellent choice for any color scheme or theme you might have in mind. You can also grab a glue gun and craft another colored bottom for a different feel. Once you’re done painting, you can seal the whole thing in polyurethane for protection. Invest in Pet Litter Container Enclosures If you don’t want t o make any modifications to your cat litter box, you could always upgrade to something that comes with its own enclosure. There are plenty of options out there to choose from, but there is only one downside — they can be expensive.

Remove Drawers and Install a Hinged Door

(Image credit: TrueValue)

This homemade tin cabinet, built by Chris Coyne for Cat In The Boardroom, features a space-saving design with a “hinged door” that can be used to hide your litter box. After using this quick and easy kit, your little buddy can easily get in and out of the cabinet. Don’t worry about what smells are going to come out because all of your cat’s excrement will be contained in the litter box, keeping them safe from a bad case of the runs. Broom & Box Corner Not every guy is going to want to spend the money on a custom-made litter box, and you might not want to spend a ton of time building something for your home. You can always add a small corner bin and broom to help keep dirt and odors at bay. Get this DIY built-in for $20 in wood and another $12 in paint.

Hide the Litter Box Under the Sink

(Image credit: DigsDigs)

Get creative and make a cabinet or shelf that hides the dirty litter. A cabinet that offers cat access to food and water is a great idea. It’s a simple and effective idea that requires minimal investment. Make a Cat Tree A cat tree can also be a great hideaway for your litter box. Once built, it can be a safe resting place for your kitty for an extra special treat! You can create a perfect space for your little cat with this awesome floor mat inspired by cat furniture. Vintage Themed Cat Hideaway When we think of cats, we imagine them sleeping under a cozy blanket or lounging in front of the fireplace. A rustic cabin built like a classic log cabin can be an excellent home for cats. But this type of cabin that’s built of a large number of planks and logs can cause some noise.

Install a Cat Door in Wardrobe Cabinet

(Image credit: Rover)

If you have more than one cat, this clever trick is for you. This clever installation keeps cats safe from predators when they’re in the house and gives them access to the outdoors. You’ll need a wardrobe cabinet (like this one from Ikea) and a pet door (such as this one from Cover) installed. Install the door and store the litter in the cabinet with a special cat litter tray. Check out more great DIY bathroom makeovers and dog accessory ideas. Litter Box Bench for Cats and Dogs Cats and dogs both like to scratch, but we’ve found a simple solution that will protect your hardwood floors. Litter boxes can usually fit on top of our regular footstools, but they’re usually designed for larger animals.

Drape Fabric Around an End Table

(Image credit: sawsonskates)

A tabletop cat box is a brilliant solution when the tray on your cat-chaired end table is littered with mail, keys, and other items. Simply purchase a pet-proof litter box tray from the store and wrap it in a fabric panel. For a cleaner look, add an inexpensive clear vinyl sticker. The logo will look cute next to the tray’s paint. Transform a Den If you’re downsizing or moving, you can easily pick up a sturdy faux-wood rectangular platform, like this one from House Spirit. Add a piece of plywood below to provide the perfect base for the bed of your choice. We love the more rustic look of this cat box. It was made with reclaimed wood.

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Add Curtains to a Console Table

(Image credit: Dimples and Tangles)

Just like the console table above, this DIY console table was a great way to hide a big task from our furry friends. Instead of having to clean up the litter box all the time, you can now hide the litter box inside the console table, keeping it safe from the mess. Undercover Litter Box Many DIY builders were quick to spot the clever utility of hiding a litter box in a drawer. Using a 2-drawer side and bottom dresser from IKEA, all you need is some hardware and furniture tape. As with many other home furniture DIY, this project will take a bit of time and patience. Thin-Lined Cat Bin There’s something special about looking through a cat-safe trash can. This DIY hack, which fits easily in the lid of your trash can, helps you keep the cat-toilet area clean and easy to clean.

Build a Custom Kitty Litter Box

(Image credit: Ikeahackers)

The Three Blind Mice Co. did a great job recreating this mint green masterpiece. This made-in-the-U.S. original shelter is a work of art that will delight you and your kitty alike. In the meanwhile, your animal friend will continue to enjoy a comfy and private seat. If you’re looking for something more modern and a little brighter, you can opt for this geometric-designed option from Campsite. It’s a great decor piece that has a lot of charm, but at the same time, the litter box does not look out of place. We also love that there are contrasting colors and textured materials to give the design some pizzazz. It looks like it belongs at a museum and will definitely add a lot of personality to your home.

Use the Inside of a Bench for Kitty Litter Storage

(Image credit: Foter)

This clever and affordable indoor bench is simple to build from spare wood. Once you’ve fashioned the hideaway box, you simply need to construct a shelf inside the bench to hold the litter. The floor also needs to be sealed, so you don’t track litter around the house. Cool Ways to Make a Small, Accent Crate a Little More Personality Choose a Cool Cat Litter Box Image Although it’s not as pretty as the modern, orange-and-black patent design below, this simple DIY outfitter keeps the lid accessible. Use an adhesive clamp to glue the lid to the platform before adding a shelf to store a scoop and a litter tray inside.

Convert a Bedroom Dresser into Litter Box Storage

(Image credit: HGTV)

This roomy, modern home entertainment center is completely full of storage for the comforts of your cats. You can buy a litter box, but you’ll probably want a good place to keep it during the day, too. When it comes to luxury cat furniture, the bed on this bed will offer a private, cozy spot to sit and snuggle. If you want to combine the two, just add some blanket. Turn a Pillow into a Cat Litter Box Cover It’s the perfect pillow for relaxing, but we have a better use for this pillow: as a cat box cover. It’s lightweight and functional, and there are several locations for litter box access (under the pillow, inside the pillow cover, and inside the head of the pillow). You can even extend the box out and use a bag of litter as a drop-in litter.

Repurpose a Tote for a Larger Litter Box

(Image credit: Barbara Adamcik)

Most people think of portable totes as places to store shopping bags, but this one is a better place to store the litter box. Watch this story for more details. Fix the Stinky Carpet With Paint Did you know you can paint your carpet? You can even find a pre-applied sealer to give your long-neglected carpet a shiny new look. The best part? It’s cheap and easy! Even Without a Carpet, it’s Still Easy to Hide a Litter Box By adding layers of paint, and you can create the illusion of a carpet in your home. This home design blogger is giving her downstairs bath a new look with a completely covered area. Add Litter Box Jars to a Rope Climb You can also create a climbable cat tree using climbing rings and big boxes. Watch this quick DIY to see how this system works.

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Add Playful Decals Outside the Cat Door

(Image credit: Pets Lady)

Since the idea behind this hidden cat door is to prevent the litter box from getting scuffed up by being outside, a fun way to give the box a happy home is to create a play area for your cat. You can create a bright, colorful design to help your cat feel playful and stop them from scratching and marking up the door too much. Just choose your favorite decals online and watch them appear on the bottom of the door for an added touch of cuteness. Use Tape to Hide the Box From Extruders The best solution for this pesky issue of cat litter clogging up countertops, cabinets, and other hard-to-reach places? Use tape. You’ll find the best tape-in many department stores and drug stores for both home and office use.

Put the Cat Door on the Top of a Cabinet

(Image credit: Ikeahackers)

Make a litter box space hidden from sight. This ingenious solution uses a window ledge as a litter box door. With a few small upgrades (like screws) and wooden crates or crates with metal covers, your cat can enter and exit the litter box area with ease. Buy a trash can to conceal a litter box. Install a trash can and/or food dish on top of an entertainment center. The extra space and well-designed design make this litter box a practical option. Lay a sheet across a kitchen table to hide the cat litter box. Lay down a waterproof or thick plastic sheet to camouflage the litter box. Lay the sheet over the top of the table, then set up the litter box.

Create a Cat Walk to Remove Excess Litter

(Image credit: instructables)

Place this striking catwalk in the middle of your home or office to give your feline friends a private, comfortable place to take care of their business. It’s especially great for relieving the stress on your paws. Simply cut a piece of furniture in the shape of a U. Using long nails or screws, secure the ‘U’ on the wall or ceiling, creating a catwalk. Then, just add some cushioning for maximum comfort. Keep a Trim around the Toilet to Protect Your Porch No matter how you feel about litter boxes, and you have to admit they are useful. They’re low maintenance and cheap to buy, plus you can set one up at your front door to keep garbage out and for easy clean-up. This clever solution involves building a box to shield your front steps from the litter.

Cat need to access their own private space

(Image credit: instructables)

A new coat of paint on a baseboard or piece of furniture is a great way to transform the look and feel of a small space, and this DIY looks amazing and comes with surprisingly low maintenance. To create the cubby, first drill two holes in the baseboard, then attach two more small screws with the included hex key. Next, simply drill two holes for the metal stakes, attach them to the baseboard, and use the included screws to secure them in place. Repeat this process two more times around the baseboard for a total of four new holes. This simple custom make will hide the handle of your litter box and will allow your cat to access their own private space, so it can do its business without annoying you.

Conclusion

(Image credit: CatandWood)

Making a comfortable indoor litter box can be challenging. Fortunately, there are several solutions you can take advantage of to make it a comfortable space for your cats. Utilize these ideas, and your cats will love having their own cozy spot. And I Would say that the DIY cost a lot of time and money also, that it’s better to buy at catandwood.com instead of making it yourself. Have you tried one of these cool litter box projects?  if so, share your thoughts in the comments below.

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Prepare Your Home for the Arrival of a New Cat https://thepetster.com/prepare-your-home-for-the-arrival-of-a-new-cat/ https://thepetster.com/prepare-your-home-for-the-arrival-of-a-new-cat/#respond Sat, 06 Jan 2024 16:46:20 +0000 https://thepetster.com/2024/01/06/prepare-your-home-for-the-arrival-of-a-new-cat/ When you first bring your new cat or kitten home, keep all windows and doors closed until they have fully adjusted, check that they have all their vaccinations and that they are spayed. Check that all kitchen and bathroom bins have claw-proof lids, and never leave garbage bags where they can be attacked! Save any ... Read more

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  • When you first bring your new cat or kitten home, keep all windows and doors closed until they have fully adjusted, check that they have all their vaccinations and that they are spayed.
  • Check that all kitchen and bathroom bins have claw-proof lids, and never leave garbage bags where they can be attacked!
  • Save any fragile ornaments, as they won’t last long with a curious kitty on the scene.
  • Remember to always close the doors of the oven, refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher, dryer and washing machine. Put notes on the doors of these gadgets to remind people to check inside for scouts before using them. Little kitties find a hot dryer or a sparkling washing machine irresistible!
  • Keep the toilet lids down to prevent your kitty from falling in or drinking from them (or even trying to use it for himself!). You may have to leave a note to remind forgetful visitors or roommates.
  • Hide all hanging electrical cords behind furniture. You can buy thick cable protectors at most hardware stores – they wrap around cables and protect them from biting.

Unfortunately, a lot of common household items are highly toxic to cats, even in small amounts. To keep your cat safe, avoid using the following:

  • Cleaning and hygiene products, such as chlorine or products containing phenols (eg disinfectants that make the water cloudy).
  • Medicines for humans (such as aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen).
  • Automotive products such as antifreeze fluid.
  • Beauty or decoration products such as hair dye, white spirit, and nail polish remover.
  • Rat or Mouse Poison: These products, in particular, should not be used at all, as your cat could become seriously ill if it eats poisoned prey. If you have to use them, put them somewhere your cat can’t reach them.
  • Anti-slime (there are versions compatible with pets).
  • Camphor balls (naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene).
  • Flower essences, fabric softeners, dishwasher detergents (all contain cationic detergents that cause corrosive injuries)
  • Batteries (contain acids or alkalis that cause corrosive injuries).

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Although cats are considered carnivores, don’t be surprised if you see your cat chewing vegetables or other plants. Some cats like to chew grass outdoors or nibble on the leaves of houseplant pots. Take a look at what exactly your cat nibbles on, as some plants have parts that are toxic to them. The most common plants to avoid are:

TIPS FOR CAT SAFETY OUTSIDE THE HOME

Your cat or kitten has a natural instinct to play outside, mark territory, climb trees, and take a nap in the sun. As fun as it sounds, there are a few things you’ll need to keep an eye on on the outside. When outside, cats are exposed to more diseases and parasites, are at risk of being lost or stolen, and could be injured by a car. To allow your cat to be outdoors and at the same time be safe, you can create a cat-proof garden.

Some cats are very happy to stay indoors, although that will depend on whether you know how to cat-proof your home and make their environment exciting to compensate for the lack of outside stimulation. Other cats prefer to roam outdoors – you will have to decide which option is best for your cat by studying it carefully. If you allow your cat to be outdoors, ask your breeder or veterinarian for advice and make sure to make your outdoor space as safe as possible.

 
PREPARE YOUR CAT FOR THE OUTSIDE WORLD

We recommend keeping your cat at home until it has been microchipped and has completed its vaccination stages. Vaccination and flea and worm treatments will need to be kept up to date, so talk to your vet to schedule everything properly to keep your cat protected.

Give your cat time to fully familiarize himself with his familiar surroundings before letting him out. If they are new to the family or have moved, encourage them to stay indoors until they are fully adjusted and used to their new surroundings. This usually lasts about two weeks. Remember: if you have moved, you will need to update your microchip registration and change your identification tag. 

CAT-PROOF YOUR GARDEN
  • Check your garden for potential hazards such as poisonous plants (see above), unsafe sheds (if they contain chemicals), and uncovered ponds. It is a good idea to walk through the garden getting into the shoes of a mischievous cat. You’ll quickly spot things you can fix to cat-proof your yard!
  • Use chemical herbicides with care. Restrict access to your garden after the application of any chemical substances and keep your cat away from the lawn or garden when treating it with fertilizers, herbicides or insecticides, until the area has completely dried.
  • Check that no one in the area is using poison to get rid of rats or mice. It can be fatal if your cat ingests the poison directly or through a poisoned rodent.

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LEAVE YOUR CAT OUTSIDE

Installing a cat flap will allow your cat to access the garden throughout the day. Cat flaps that can be closed or those that only allow your cat to enter through a tag that recognizes its microchip are very useful.

Hopefully, your cat will relax outside and stay close to home, but keep in mind that it may find different places to rest or hide. Always be sure to check that the jack is behind you before backing up the car.

The excitement of finding a perfect companion can be great when looking for a puppy, kitten or exotic animals and pets of a specific breed, and this makes people often turn to online sales sites. Surely you have observed that more and more people are opting to buy in an online pet store, and it is that it is a very interesting alternative that brings great benefits to the buyer, AnimalsSale.com is the website where you can buy or sell animals in the US, UK, Europe and other countries. You can find on their website full information about all dogs’ breeds, advice from experts on how to take care of puppies and kittens and other interesting information.

So here we are going to discover some of the most peculiarities of buying a pet from an online store. Featured.

Advantages of buying from a pet store

Today more and more people decide to have an animal in their family. For this reason, the opening of stores where they can buy any product or service dedicated to pets is becoming more and more frequent. According to some statistics, between 40% or 50% of families have a pet, so we must know well the offers in the market to be able to give our pets the best for their health and comfort.

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Immense variety in offers

These premises, often have a huge variety of items for pets. For this reason, we can use them to obtain bags of feed for dogs of different sizes, sweets, food products, clothes for dogs, toys, cages (in the case of rodents), etc.

Unlike shopping centres and supermarkets where we find a limited amount of items for our pets. In a pet store, we can find different things more specific to your needs.

In addition, there are also offers on pets and we can find a wide variety of animal species (if the establishment is a large company). In these places, the animals are usually kept in good condition and the employees are in charge of cleaning the cages daily.

Quality Products

Also, the advantage of buying in a specialized pet store is that we can find good quality products at their price. And it is that the prices themselves are usually quite accessible.

Quality is still an important detail when purchasing a product and/or service. In these places, there are usually articles of a quality more than enough to fulfil their function.

In addition, we have the products organized according to the type of pet and this helps to find what we need and more quickly. This saves time and unnecessary wandering in the store.

Something important to note is that the products that are sold in specialized stores are usually from recognized brands and that they will also give us a guarantee. More if it is something that our pet has to ingest.

This really is important, because we cannot give anything to our pet. They could get sick if what they eat is in bad condition and if so, we must quickly claim it from the place of purchase. But in these places, the quality of the products is taken care of.

Preparedness for customer service

Another advantage is that we can have personalized attention based on our requests. There are always people around the premises who can guide us in our purchase and tell us which product suits us best for our needs.

This is extremely important since many times we can go to these stores and not be clear about what brand or what characteristics in the article can be better for our pet. This is a great advantage of buying from these stores.

Personnel in charge of customer service are often people who love animals and spend their time learning about pets. The best advice to buy is from people with a lot of experience.

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Definition of Mascot https://thepetster.com/definition-of-mascot/ https://thepetster.com/definition-of-mascot/#respond Fri, 05 Jan 2024 08:32:57 +0000 https://thepetster.com/2024/01/05/definition-of-mascot/ Pet may be a term that comes from the French Mascotte and is employed to call the companion animal . These animals, therefore, accompany kinsfolk in their daily lives, in order that they aren’t destined for work nor area unit they sacrificed to become food . For example: “When i used to be a toddler, ... Read more

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Pet may be a term that comes from the French Mascotte and is employed to call the companion animal . These animals, therefore, accompany kinsfolk in their daily lives, in order that they aren’t destined for work nor area unit they sacrificed to become food .

For example: “When i used to be a toddler, I had 3 dogs as pets” , “My favorite pet is that the cat” , “My oldsters secure that if I pass the communicating they’ll offer Pine Tree State a pet” , “Do you wish United States of America to go to the store? Of pets?” .

The copy of pets , therefore, is promoted so animals be with individuals , whether or not for social, recreational or academic reasons. The sale of pets may be a business, though the pets themselves, once sold, aren’t used for profit.

There area unit several blessings that anyone UN agency makes the choice to own a pet reception will fancy. Specifically, these area unit the foremost vital during this regard:

  • Get the owner to finish his loneliness downside. people UN agency live alone therefore resort on several occasions to accumulate a dog or a cat, for instance, to be ready to have company and not feel thus “abandoned”. additionally to the current, they increase your happiness also as your sense of security.
  • Any pet that involves a home improves the conceit of bound relations, like the old. Why? as a result of taking care of it’ll permit them to feel far more helpful and necessary.
  • It shouldn’t be unmarked either that it’s additionally suggested that individuals with socialization issues or disorders like syndrome have a pet since animals facilitate them improve their ability to relate to others also because the ability to specific feelings and sensations.
  • Likewise, it ought to be stressed that, on alternative occasions, they additionally wager having a dog reception as a result of it’s the thanks to improve the owner’s health. How? Forcing yourself to require your pet for a walk a day, so the person are going to be forced to travel for a walk and not sit on the couch.

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Animals began to be domesticated as pets in prehistoric times . The dogs and cats area unit the foremost widespread pets within the world for its characteristics and historical tradition. alternative animals, like rabbits , turtles or ferrets , also are typically thought-about as pets, though animal defense associations think about that these species ought to board their home ground .

Although these area unit the foremost common pets, we have a tendency to should not forget that there also are those that wager having Vietnamese pigs or snakes intrinsically.

Mascot, on the opposite hand, is an Associate in Nursing animal, an individual or Associate in Nursing animated object that acts as an amulet or that represents a sports team, a company, a complete or an occurrence . it’s common for the pet to be a doll of an Associate in Nursing animal with human behaviors (capable of saltation, for example).

MURSHIDALAM

If you want to learn how to groom your dog at home, you need to know the basics, such as how to cut a dog’s nails. I’ll show you exactly what you need to do and how to do it safely so that know one gets hurt.

Cutting a dog’s fingernails might sound scary but there’s nothing about it that’s difficult. You just have to be careful and know what you’re doing .

You should start off by collecting all of the supplies for this task. This includes, but is not limited to:

  • Nail Trimmer
  • Scissors
  • Styptic Powder (optional)

Now that you’ve got your stuff together, it’s time to get started.

Step 1: Make Your Dog Comfortable

First, make sure your dog is relaxed and comfortable around you. Do this by giving him a treat or two before starting. If possible, start this process after they’ve eaten their meal to help them feel extra sleepy and calm! For anxious dogs, you can even try CBD Oil for Dogs.

Step 2: Prepare The Paw

Second, lift one of your dogs paws into your hand and press gently on the pad of the paw while looking at the tip of each nail. You’ll be able to see where your dog’s skin is and if you cut it, he will bleed and it may hurt him.

You might also like:  CAN DOGS SWIM?

That’s why we use a nail cutter, so we don’t have to worry about hurting our dog when trimming their nails.

Step Three: Secure The Paw

Third, you can feel free to push down on the pad of their paw if it’s more comfortable for you. If your dog is wiggly when you’re trying to hold his paw, you can try this instead!

Step 4: Apply The Cut

Fourth, once you’ve identified where the quick ends in each nail, go ahead and cut just past that point. You’ll only want to cut into the pinkish area on the end of his nail, not into the black part. If you do accidentally cut into this black section, use an absorbent cotton ball to stop the bleeding. After it stops, apply some styptic powder to help the blood clot faster and prevent infection in your dog’s paw. You can then apply some CBD for Pets to promote healing as well.

Step 5: Repeat on All Nails

Fifth, keep trimming until all their nails are the same length.

Step by Step Instructions for Trimming Dog Nails

  1. Pet your dog and make sure they’re comfortable with you
  2. With one paw in each hand, feel for the end of each nail to know where to cut
  3. Cut just past this point (only into the pinkish area)
  4. Keep cutting until all of the nails are the same length
  5. If you accidentally cut into the black part, apply some styptic powder to stop the bleeding

Now that you’ve learned how to cut your dog’s nails, you can feel confident doing it at home! If this process continues to be too stressful for either of you, then why not try bringing them to a groomer?

If you want more information on how to do this and other dog grooming basics, check out the video linked below:

Whether or not dogs dream isn’t known with scientific certainty, but it sure is difficult to imagine that they don’t. We’ve all watched our dogs demonstrate behaviours in their sleep that resemble what they do in a fully awake state. Paddling legs, whining, growling, wagging tails, chewing jowls, and twitching noses inspire us to wonder what our dogs are dreaming about.

What we know about dogs and dreams

While our knowledge on this topic is very limited, the following known information helps us believe that dogs do indeed experience dreams. According to MIT News, Matthew Wilson, a professor of neuroscience at MIT, and Kenway Louie, a graduate student in 2001,  have studied the relationships between memory, sleep and dreams. They found that when rats were trained to run along a circular track for food rewards, their brains created a distinctive firing pattern of neurons (brain cells). The researchers repeated the brain monitoring while the rats were sleeping. Low and behold, they observed the same signature brain activity pattern associated with running whether the rats were awake or asleep. In fact, the memories played at approximately the same speed during sleep as when the rats were awake.

Can we apply this to dogs?

Can we take what is known about dreaming in rats and humans and apply the information to dogs? Wilson believes that we can.”My guess is — unless there is something special about rats and humans — that cats and dogs are doing exactly the same thing,” he said, according to USA Today’s website.

You might also like:  5 Reasons to why you should test Your Dog for Diabetes

It is known that the hippocampus, the portion of the brain that collects and stores memories, is wired much the same way in all mammals. According to healthday.com, Professor Wilson says, “If you compared a hippocampus in a rat to a dog; in a cat to a human, they contain all of the same pieces.” He believes that as dogs sleep, images of past events replay in their minds, much the same way people recall experiences while dreaming.

In people, it is known that most dreams occur during REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, according to the National Institutes of Health. Dogs also experience periods of REM sleep. Psychology Today’s website says that during REM their breathing becomes more irregular and shallow. There may be muscle twitching during REM and, when one looks closely, rapid eye movements behind closed eyelids can often be observed. It is during REM sleep that behaviours thought to be associated with dreaming (legs paddling, twitching, vocalizing, etc.) are most commonly observed.

What we want to believe about dog dreams

When we observe our dogs as they sleep, it’s just about impossible to imagine that they are not dreaming. Just like the rats studied by Wilson and Louie, it is tempting to believe that our four-legged best buddies are reenacting their recent experiences; playing at the dog park, sniffing in the woods, chewing on a treasured bone, and chasing squirrels.

You might also like:  CAN DOGS SWIM?

The National Institutes of Health says that Sigmund Freud theorized that dreaming was a “safety valve” for our unconscious desires. Perhaps he is correct, and, when our dogs sleep, they dream about catching the neighbour’s pesky cat, continuous belly rubs in conjunction with unlimited dog treats, and stealing the Thanksgiving turkey from the dining room table.

If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian — they are your best resource to ensure the health and well-being of your pets.

Did you know that some authorities feel that 1 out of every 100 dogs that reach 12 years of age develops diabetes mellitus?

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a hormonal problem where the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin, the hormone that helps push sugar (“glucose”) into the body’s cells. Without the insulin, the body’s cells are starving for sugar; unfortunately, this then stimulates the body to produce more and more sugar (in an attempt to feed the cells). That’s why your dog’s blood sugar is so high (what we call a “hyperglycemia”) with diabetes mellitus.

Without insulin, the sugar can’t get into the cells; hence, why you need to give insulin to your dog with a tiny syringe twice a day. In dogs, this is a disease that can be costly to treat and requires twice-a-day insulin along with frequent veterinary visits for the rest of your dog’s life.

So how do you know if your dog has diabetes? Clinical signs of diabetes mellitus in dogs include:

  • Excessive drinking
  • Excessive urination
  • Urinary accidents in the house
  • Dilute urine
  • Overweight or obese
  • Muscle wasting
  • Ravenous appetite
  • Frequent urinary tract infections
  • Weakness
  • Unkempt or poor hair coat
  • Blindness secondary to cataracts
  • Neuropathies (nerve problems)

As your dog gets older, it’s worth talking to your veterinarian about doing routine blood work to make sure your dog is healthy. This blood work will help rule out kidney and liver problems, anaemia, infections, electrolyte problems and diabetes mellitus. The sooner you recognize the clinical signs, the sooner your dog can be treated with insulin and the fewer complications we see as a result.

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So, if you notice any of the signs above, get to a veterinarian right away. Now, continue on for 5 important reasons to test your dog for diabetes:

1. Your dog will live longer

Diabetes mellitus can shorten the lifespan of your dog, as secondary complications and infections can occur. With diabetes, the body is immunosuppressed and more likely to develop diabetic complications which cause long term harm to your dog.

2. Your dog will be able to see

Did you know that the majority of dogs with diabetes eventually go blind from cataracts? Even in well-controlled diabetic dogs, the excess sugar in the body can have secondary effects on the lens of the eye; it causes more water to influx into the lens, which disrupts the clearness of the lens. As a result, cataract formation occurs, resulting in eventual blindness and secondary inflammation in both eyes. While cataract surgery can (and ideally, should) be performed, it can be costly.

3. You’ll save a lot of money

Treatment for diabetes mellitus includes twice-a-day insulin treatment, insulin syringes, prescription diets, and frequent veterinary trips for blood tests. Also, as diabetic dogs can’t go without their insulin, it may mean hiring house sitters or pet sitters to treat your pet while you are on vacation.

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4. You’ll have fewer urinary accidents in the house

One of the biggest signs of uncontrolled diabetes mellitus is excessive drinking, urination and having urinary accidents in the house. Because of hyperglycemia, dogs are also at increased risk for urinary tract infections, wreaking havoc on your carpet. The sooner you can treat your dog with insulin and get diabetes controlled or regulated, the less your dog will drink and urinate, making your dog more comfortable too!

5. You’ll have more peace knowing that your dog is healthy

As a veterinarian and dog owner, I want to make sure my dog is as healthy as possible. You might already be talking with your veterinarian about vaccines each year in a dog that is older than 7 years of age; next, talk to your veterinarian about doing an annual exam and routine blood work too. It’ll pick up on medical problems sooner, so you can rest assured that your dog is going to live a longer, happier, healthier life!

Having a diabetic pet is also a big commitment, as it requires dedicated pet parents who can give twice-a-day injections of insulin. Caring for a diabetic dog does require frequent trips to the veterinarian to regulate blood sugar. That said, dogs can live with diabetes for years with appropriate care and treatment. When in doubt, make sure to monitor your dog carefully for the signs of diabetes, and seek veterinary attention sooner rather than later to help test for this ever-growing problem!

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Can Dogs Swim? https://thepetster.com/can-dogs-swim/ https://thepetster.com/can-dogs-swim/#respond Fri, 05 Jan 2024 02:49:14 +0000 https://thepetster.com/2024/01/05/can-dogs-swim/ “SWIM” is the intransitive verb that means “to advance in the water [a person or an animal] doing the necessary movements with the body and extremities, without touching the bottom or other support “. It is popularly believed that all dogs can swim, but this statement is not true. What happens is that all races ... Read more

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“SWIM” is the intransitive verb that means “to advance in the water [a person or an animal] doing the necessary movements with the body and extremities, without touching the bottom or other support “. It is popularly believed that all dogs can swim, but this statement is not true. What happens is that all races have the instinct to use their legs and move them to stay afloat and not sink; to do the “little dog” as people say when we are little. But that does not mean that they know how to swim, and therefore, we find breeds with innate swimming skills, breeds with the ability to learn and others, so clumsy or limited, that they can endanger their lives if they try.

The skill of the animal will depend on factors such as its anatomy, genetics, aptitude, age, experience, health and physical condition. We can highlight breeds with great empathy and aquatic ability, usually such as the Newfoundland, Golden Terrier, Labrador Retriever, Water Dog, Setter. On the contrary, the breeds with the most difficulties to swim are the brachycephalic (snub-nosed) such as the Bulldog, Pug, Boxer, Chow Chow, but also Sighthounds and Greyhounds due to their morphology oriented to running, but not swimming.

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As the summer heat rolls in, the temptation to take a dip increases, and while it may seem harmless, there are hidden aquatic hazards that we should watch out for.
Whatever the breed of our pet, it should not be ruled out that from time to time they take a dip since swimming is a good physical exercise and an ideal way to spend a fun and refreshing time. As long as, of course, it is carried out safely – in a controlled and supervised environment – and the dog enjoys it and it does not become a stressful experience. Swimming is a perfect activity to eliminate excess accumulated energy and thus prevent it from becoming anxiety. The animal that refreshes itself and has a good time, gains in relaxation and good humour. However, we should never force a fearful animal because we would obtain the opposite effect to that desired.

If the sea, the pool, the river or the pond are part of our usual environment, it will be convenient for us to accustom our pet from its puppy stage (from 12 months), putting it in contact with the water and turning the bath in a game time. The safety and tranquillity of the animal are essential, so, if the situation requires it, we can use any of the models of life-saving floats for dogs that exist on the market.
As the summer heat rolls in, the temptation to take a dip increases, and while it may seem harmless, there are hidden aquatic hazards that we should watch out for. Organisms and parasites inhabit the water of natural spaces that can infect our pet. It is advisable to avoid calm or stagnant waters, and favour slow-moving rivers or shallow sea areas, where parasite infections are less persistent. A good tip to apply is to always bring fresh water to hand for our dog to drink and avoid the temptation to drink water during the bath. As an additional measure, it will be recommended that after swimming, we bathe our dog with clean water to remove any harmful residue that may have adhered to your skin and hair. In the case of using a swimming pool, after the swimming session we should dry the ears and eyes to avoid irritation that, sometimes, chlorine causes.

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In advance of the bathing season, it is convenient to act on our furry animals by going to our trusted veterinarian to ask him to make us an adequate preventive plan that includes the Double Monthly Protection against internal and external parasites: also protecting our pet from worms, fleas, ticks and other mites.

If you want to learn how to groom your dog at home, you need to know the basics, such as how to cut a dog’s nails. I’ll show you exactly what you need to do and how to do it safely so that know one gets hurt.

Cutting a dog’s fingernails might sound scary but there’s nothing about it that’s difficult. You just have to be careful and know what you’re doing .

You should start off by collecting all of the supplies for this task. This includes, but is not limited to:

  • Nail Trimmer
  • Scissors
  • Styptic Powder (optional)

Now that you’ve got your stuff together, it’s time to get started.

Step 1: Make Your Dog Comfortable

First, make sure your dog is relaxed and comfortable around you. Do this by giving him a treat or two before starting. If possible, start this process after they’ve eaten their meal to help them feel extra sleepy and calm! For anxious dogs, you can even try CBD Oil for Dogs.

Step 2: Prepare The Paw

Second, lift one of your dogs paws into your hand and press gently on the pad of the paw while looking at the tip of each nail. You’ll be able to see where your dog’s skin is and if you cut it, he will bleed and it may hurt him.

You might also like:  HELPING YOUR DOG DEAL WITH SEPARATION ANXIETY

That’s why we use a nail cutter, so we don’t have to worry about hurting our dog when trimming their nails.

Step Three: Secure The Paw

Third, you can feel free to push down on the pad of their paw if it’s more comfortable for you. If your dog is wiggly when you’re trying to hold his paw, you can try this instead!

Step 4: Apply The Cut

Fourth, once you’ve identified where the quick ends in each nail, go ahead and cut just past that point. You’ll only want to cut into the pinkish area on the end of his nail, not into the black part. If you do accidentally cut into this black section, use an absorbent cotton ball to stop the bleeding. After it stops, apply some styptic powder to help the blood clot faster and prevent infection in your dog’s paw. You can then apply some CBD for Pets to promote healing as well.

Step 5: Repeat on All Nails

Fifth, keep trimming until all their nails are the same length.

Step by Step Instructions for Trimming Dog Nails

  1. Pet your dog and make sure they’re comfortable with you
  2. With one paw in each hand, feel for the end of each nail to know where to cut
  3. Cut just past this point (only into the pinkish area)
  4. Keep cutting until all of the nails are the same length
  5. If you accidentally cut into the black part, apply some styptic powder to stop the bleeding

Now that you’ve learned how to cut your dog’s nails, you can feel confident doing it at home! If this process continues to be too stressful for either of you, then why not try bringing them to a groomer?

If you want more information on how to do this and other dog grooming basics, check out the video linked below:

Whether or not dogs dream isn’t known with scientific certainty, but it sure is difficult to imagine that they don’t. We’ve all watched our dogs demonstrate behaviours in their sleep that resemble what they do in a fully awake state. Paddling legs, whining, growling, wagging tails, chewing jowls, and twitching noses inspire us to wonder what our dogs are dreaming about.

What we know about dogs and dreams

While our knowledge on this topic is very limited, the following known information helps us believe that dogs do indeed experience dreams. According to MIT News, Matthew Wilson, a professor of neuroscience at MIT, and Kenway Louie, a graduate student in 2001,  have studied the relationships between memory, sleep and dreams. They found that when rats were trained to run along a circular track for food rewards, their brains created a distinctive firing pattern of neurons (brain cells). The researchers repeated the brain monitoring while the rats were sleeping. Low and behold, they observed the same signature brain activity pattern associated with running whether the rats were awake or asleep. In fact, the memories played at approximately the same speed during sleep as when the rats were awake.

Can we apply this to dogs?

Can we take what is known about dreaming in rats and humans and apply the information to dogs? Wilson believes that we can.”My guess is — unless there is something special about rats and humans — that cats and dogs are doing exactly the same thing,” he said, according to USA Today’s website.

You might also like:  THE HEARTWORM: A TRAVELER WE DON’T WANT

It is known that the hippocampus, the portion of the brain that collects and stores memories, is wired much the same way in all mammals. According to healthday.com, Professor Wilson says, “If you compared a hippocampus in a rat to a dog; in a cat to a human, they contain all of the same pieces.” He believes that as dogs sleep, images of past events replay in their minds, much the same way people recall experiences while dreaming.

In people, it is known that most dreams occur during REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, according to the National Institutes of Health. Dogs also experience periods of REM sleep. Psychology Today’s website says that during REM their breathing becomes more irregular and shallow. There may be muscle twitching during REM and, when one looks closely, rapid eye movements behind closed eyelids can often be observed. It is during REM sleep that behaviours thought to be associated with dreaming (legs paddling, twitching, vocalizing, etc.) are most commonly observed.

What we want to believe about dog dreams

When we observe our dogs as they sleep, it’s just about impossible to imagine that they are not dreaming. Just like the rats studied by Wilson and Louie, it is tempting to believe that our four-legged best buddies are reenacting their recent experiences; playing at the dog park, sniffing in the woods, chewing on a treasured bone, and chasing squirrels.

You might also like:  10 tips for petting a cat

The National Institutes of Health says that Sigmund Freud theorized that dreaming was a “safety valve” for our unconscious desires. Perhaps he is correct, and, when our dogs sleep, they dream about catching the neighbour’s pesky cat, continuous belly rubs in conjunction with unlimited dog treats, and stealing the Thanksgiving turkey from the dining room table.

If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian — they are your best resource to ensure the health and well-being of your pets.

Did you know that some authorities feel that 1 out of every 100 dogs that reach 12 years of age develops diabetes mellitus?

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a hormonal problem where the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin, the hormone that helps push sugar (“glucose”) into the body’s cells. Without the insulin, the body’s cells are starving for sugar; unfortunately, this then stimulates the body to produce more and more sugar (in an attempt to feed the cells). That’s why your dog’s blood sugar is so high (what we call a “hyperglycemia”) with diabetes mellitus.

Without insulin, the sugar can’t get into the cells; hence, why you need to give insulin to your dog with a tiny syringe twice a day. In dogs, this is a disease that can be costly to treat and requires twice-a-day insulin along with frequent veterinary visits for the rest of your dog’s life.

So how do you know if your dog has diabetes? Clinical signs of diabetes mellitus in dogs include:

  • Excessive drinking
  • Excessive urination
  • Urinary accidents in the house
  • Dilute urine
  • Overweight or obese
  • Muscle wasting
  • Ravenous appetite
  • Frequent urinary tract infections
  • Weakness
  • Unkempt or poor hair coat
  • Blindness secondary to cataracts
  • Neuropathies (nerve problems)

As your dog gets older, it’s worth talking to your veterinarian about doing routine blood work to make sure your dog is healthy. This blood work will help rule out kidney and liver problems, anaemia, infections, electrolyte problems and diabetes mellitus. The sooner you recognize the clinical signs, the sooner your dog can be treated with insulin and the fewer complications we see as a result.

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So, if you notice any of the signs above, get to a veterinarian right away. Now, continue on for 5 important reasons to test your dog for diabetes:

1. Your dog will live longer

Diabetes mellitus can shorten the lifespan of your dog, as secondary complications and infections can occur. With diabetes, the body is immunosuppressed and more likely to develop diabetic complications which cause long term harm to your dog.

2. Your dog will be able to see

Did you know that the majority of dogs with diabetes eventually go blind from cataracts? Even in well-controlled diabetic dogs, the excess sugar in the body can have secondary effects on the lens of the eye; it causes more water to influx into the lens, which disrupts the clearness of the lens. As a result, cataract formation occurs, resulting in eventual blindness and secondary inflammation in both eyes. While cataract surgery can (and ideally, should) be performed, it can be costly.

3. You’ll save a lot of money

Treatment for diabetes mellitus includes twice-a-day insulin treatment, insulin syringes, prescription diets, and frequent veterinary trips for blood tests. Also, as diabetic dogs can’t go without their insulin, it may mean hiring house sitters or pet sitters to treat your pet while you are on vacation.

4. You’ll have fewer urinary accidents in the house

One of the biggest signs of uncontrolled diabetes mellitus is excessive drinking, urination and having urinary accidents in the house. Because of hyperglycemia, dogs are also at increased risk for urinary tract infections, wreaking havoc on your carpet. The sooner you can treat your dog with insulin and get diabetes controlled or regulated, the less your dog will drink and urinate, making your dog more comfortable too!

5. You’ll have more peace knowing that your dog is healthy

As a veterinarian and dog owner, I want to make sure my dog is as healthy as possible. You might already be talking with your veterinarian about vaccines each year in a dog that is older than 7 years of age; next, talk to your veterinarian about doing an annual exam and routine blood work too. It’ll pick up on medical problems sooner, so you can rest assured that your dog is going to live a longer, happier, healthier life!

Having a diabetic pet is also a big commitment, as it requires dedicated pet parents who can give twice-a-day injections of insulin. Caring for a diabetic dog does require frequent trips to the veterinarian to regulate blood sugar. That said, dogs can live with diabetes for years with appropriate care and treatment. When in doubt, make sure to monitor your dog carefully for the signs of diabetes, and seek veterinary attention sooner rather than later to help test for this ever-growing problem!

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What Do Cats Like To Have For Breakfast? https://thepetster.com/what-do-cats-like-to-have-for-breakfast/ https://thepetster.com/what-do-cats-like-to-have-for-breakfast/#respond Fri, 05 Jan 2024 02:31:32 +0000 https://thepetster.com/2024/01/05/what-do-cats-like-to-have-for-breakfast/ Feeding your feline pet can be an easy task. This task becomes easy and a breeze when you know how often and how much food you should provide to your pet and what food your cat can have, what is a must for your cat and what should not be given to your feline pet. ... Read more

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Feeding your feline pet can be an easy task. This task becomes easy and a breeze when you know how often and how much food you should provide to your pet and what food your cat can have, what is a must for your cat and what should not be given to your feline pet.

Knowing all the basics is necessary to ensure that feeding does not become strenuous and challenging to handle tasks and will ensure that your cat grows well and gains a balanced and proper weight with the help of good nutrition; providing a fair and healthy diet is the duty of a pet owner.

Some views on what cats eat for breakfast or dinner can come into mind as one goes along to be a cat parent.

Knowing the key to how often cats should eat will guide you about how much cat food you need to buy regularly. It should also help you build a routine and diet plan for your feline pet. Overall, knowing how often cats should eat is significant to ensure that your feline pets don’t weigh less or too much, i.e. to maintain healthy and balanced weight conditions, it is essential to know how much your feline pet needs to eat, what kind of food your cat should be given and how often should you feed your cat.

As a creature of habit, cats develop a quick time for eating, and they usually stick to it. Once cats have established a routined feeding schedule, they will become habitual and follow that schedule very punctually, and the owner will have an easy time and stress-free way of feeding them.

Cats are opportunistic feeders, i.e. if they are provided with food without any restriction and hindrance, cats can eat any time of the day whenever they feel hungry.

Cats usually eat twice a day, with a gap of 12 hours apart. Their routine may be arranged simultaneously when the owners or the family eats so that your cat can also have the same eating routine, and this will help make their eating habits improve a lot.

Growing kittens usually tend to get a more frequent meal schedule with about three or four meals in a day. By around six months of age and above, they can follow the same feeding routine as adult cats have.

Nutrient-dense meals are greatly recommended for them, mainly because the cats don’t eat as often anymore. You can also add a few snacks and treats at regular intervals during the day.

Breakfast is the first meal of the day, and it has been believed to be the most important one.

Cats are not excluded from this connotation as it is exceptionally suggested that cats should also eat nutrient-dense food with their first meal, i.e. breakfast.

Aside from a portion of nutritionally complete and balanced cat food, other homemade breakfast meals are so good and balanced that your cat can enjoy them at the beginning of each day. These foods include:

  • Eggs with cottage cheese or plain eggs
  • Whole grain like oats
  • Rice mixed with chicken meat
  • Cooked fish
  • Vegetables

Your feline pet’s eating routine and behavior will largely depend on your eating schedule, as pets love to follow what their masters do.

Scheduling your cat’s meal timings and routine will be more accessible and comfortable if you plot them in your free time or eat your meals on the same schedule.

There is no strict rule on when cats should eat, as long as your pets aren’t starved without any reason or medical condition for more than 12 hours, since their stomach can be hyper acidic if it is kept empty for a long time. A sour stomach may lead to nausea, gastric ulcers, pain in the gut, and other gut-related problems if prolonged.

Kittens are babies currently in their growing age and have a developing and growing gut compared to adult cats, who have their hearts wholly developed. Kittens can have the same breakfast as adults, but the food that should be fed must be softer.

Kittens may not have developed entirely chewing mechanisms or teeth and can have difficulty feeding hard food such as bone, etc. may get stuck in their tiny throats if the same breakfast food is served.

Cat owners can provide the same breakfast to the kitten as long as it is broken down or mashed into smaller pieces or pureed, suitable for their own eating pace without getting stuck or hurting their throat according to their capabilities.

Cats are obligate carnivores, i.e. they are meat-eaters which is a must for them, and they can also have a variety of human food every day. It won’t be long when you find your cute little feline pet by your side by the dinner table, longing for food scrap.

Occasional feeding with human food is acceptable at dinner time; however, this has been proved to increase the weight to a great extent in some cats that cannot control or balance their eating habits.

Owners should also note that not all human foods are safe for cats. Their digestive and excretory systems are designed differently, and they can have human food as treats in most instances.

Your cat can have so many human food options. Some of the common food groups that your cat can safely eat with you may include any of the following in general:

Proteins carry a massive significance in their diet as being carnivores. A pervasive myth is that cats should only have raw meat. This misconception can be true sometimes as some food preparations may contain raw meat.

Still, it can help if one takes note that, like humans, raw meat contains harmful bacterial pathogens that are maybe damaging and infectious to the gut of the cats too. Remember that serving your cat with plainly cooked meat will satisfy their appetite.

It is often a commonly asked question how vegetables can be significant for a cat’s health and diet. Cooked or steamed veggies are rich in fiber, have plenty of nutrients, and have a good water content that cats could primarily benefit from.

This food group can help regulate their cravings and their pooping habits as well and helps to avoid constipation.

Although cats do not appreciate sweet flavors, as they do not have sweet tongue receptors, fruits can aid with digestive issues and help relieve constipation. They are also nutrient-dense and can be given a treat, an occasional snack, or a dessert.

You can also add some fruits to plain yogurt that are finely chopped or cut into small cubes for more texture and flavor.

There are a lot of issues related to dairy products when we talk about cats. Like humans, not all cats can tolerate lactose. Some of them may be lactose intolerant, i.e. they cannot consume lactose. So the preference lies in your cat’s conditions of lactose tolerance to dairy products.

Everyday dairy products that can be safely fed are cheeses and yogurts if your cat is not lactose intolerant.

Your furry friend will enormously and optimally benefit from grains. Those grains with a smaller texture, like millet and couscous, are healthy and enjoyable to their palate.

Remember, you should not serve raw dough because it can react with the gut and may cause severe consequences. Also, this creates an alcoholic substance which may lead to powerful results.

  • Pieces of bread, oats, and rice are the most common grains that can be included in their diet and are helpful. These are also not difficult to find as well.

Fish products are a prevalent source of fatty acids and contain omega-3 more significantly.

Cats can get these nutrients from fish products that are also suitable for their liking, including mackerel, salmon, and herring, in balanced and well-managed preparation and proportion.

Nothing can substitute the proper diet for your cat than a recommended meal chart and dietary plan according to the very needs of your feline pet from a certified veterinarian or nutritionist.

Before letting your cat eat these food groups or any new ones, consult.

The list of harmful human foods can go long on as the human foods that may cause harm to your cat are more than the foods that do any good to them. These food groups are easy to know and grab at home and can accidentally, without any pure intentions, be served or added to their daily regimen, which may prove to be harmful to your cat.

After reading all the information contained in this article, you need to make sure to share this knowledge with the pet owners around the house so that they may avoid feeding your cat these food products:

  • Caffeine
  • Chocolates
  • Fruit seeds
  • Raisins and grapes
  • Alcohol
  • Raw meat
  • Gluten-based products
  • Corn substitutes
  • Onion and garlic
  • Bread dough
  • Xylitol (artificial sweetener)

You can feed the same food to the groups for your cat at dinner time. However, it is best to keep in mind and follow the recommended diet for some cats, like having meals for dinner that are lighter than the ones served throughout the day.

You can feed some swift cats the exact well-balanced amounts and food types on all of their meals, as they will digest it fast.

The thing that matters is how your cat is being fed. If the food being served is of great nutritional value, it must be given appropriately according to a managed and balanced diet plan; it is better to get a well-managed diet chart by consulting your pet’s veterinarian.

Overfeeding can be a severe issue. Usually, when more people have gathered at the dinner table by night, your cat may see and long for more food. Also, people having dinner may feed your cat without any check as a gesture of love and care towards your cat.

Dinner gatherings may cause one’s cat to search for more food scraps. Be polite in allowing them to have these food scraps as this could cause an imbalance in their weight and body size if tolerated.

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Discover How to Make Homemade Toys for Dogs and Cats https://thepetster.com/discover-how-to-make-homemade-toys-for-dogs-and-cats/ https://thepetster.com/discover-how-to-make-homemade-toys-for-dogs-and-cats/#respond Thu, 04 Jan 2024 20:05:03 +0000 https://thepetster.com/2024/01/04/discover-how-to-make-homemade-toys-for-dogs-and-cats/ Pets need to be active and entertained to take care of their well-being, in addition to keeping them happy through games. For the latter, they surely have one or more toys, but you may be realizing that some should be renewed soon. Does your pet’s favorite toy need a relay? It is possible that your ... Read more

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Pets need to be active and entertained to take care of their well-being, in addition to keeping them happy through games. For the latter, they surely have one or more toys, but you may be realizing that some should be renewed soon.

Does your pet’s favorite toy need a relay?

It is possible that your four-legged friend has established a close relationship with a toy and this is his favorite, but after many hours of play and biting, anyone ends up wearing out; the problem arises when some of its components sprout from the inside, the edges begin to sharpen or the small parts begin to detach and end up being risky for the health of your pet. You must keep your attention on the signs that indicate that it is necessary to retire the toy, even if it is the favorite.

There is a way for the two of you to be entertained, and that is by making toys for your pet with your own hands. Here we share some options.

Ideas for creating homemade toys for pets

Before starting you must take into account the type of materials that you will use to make the toy, as they may be made or contain substances that are harmful to your pet’s health. It is best to use clothing fabrics that you no longer use (take care that they do not contain metal pieces), strings and cardboard, since these will not result in a major problem when swallowed. If you plan to use paint, you must verify that it is not toxic.

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Something you have to consider when making toys is that they serve as a positive stimulus and invite him to exercise physically and mentally.

Toys with cardboard tubes

Making this toy is very simple, just take a cardboard tube, the kind that is left when the toilet paper runs out.

For dogs: take the cardboard tube and introduce a delicious dog treat, fold the edges so that the treatment does not come out, and make a small hole so that your dog can smell the inside.

For cat: the process will be basically the same, but the cat will not be guided by smell like the dog but will need to be shown first before inserting it into the cardboard tube, and perhaps the tube has more holes.

With this, you can keep your furry friend entertained for a while while he discovers how to extract the snack.

Toys with cloth or rope

A couple of old T-shirts are enough to make this toy. Start by cutting the shirts into long strips and then tying them together to create a long string, or by forming braided strings for added thickness and strength.

For dogs: at one end you can include a tennis ball covered in fabric at one end to give it something more attractive than it can chew on.

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For cats: the most important thing here is not the length or thickness of the rope, but what is at the end. You can choose between a ball of feathers, a bell or you can also make a kind of cloth bag that contains some noisy material inside.

Homemade toys with balls

A tennis ball can be more fun when a surprise lurks inside. All you have to do is make a hole in the ball large enough to insert a small object but still function as a lid to prevent the inside from slipping out.

For dogs: you can hide a delicious treat inside the tennis ball, the smell of the snack and the shape of the ball will keep them more than happy.

For cats: Either you insert a bell into the tennis ball or if you can get it, put some catnip in to really keep your feline entertained for a while.

Homemade toys with sheets of paper

Either with old newspapers, magazines, or promotional items, take one of its sheets and start to make a ball, then take another sheet and make another ball that covers the first one, continue until you can and if you require it, use some thread or rope to give strength to your new homemade toy creation. Tip: if you use string or rope to tie the large ball of paper, as an extra, you can previously pass it through their favorite food, so the aroma will make it more attractive to your pet.

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For dogs: your dog will enjoy chewing on his toy, so the best option is to use a thick string for the paper ball.

For cats: here it is more advisable to use a thread and perhaps pass it before through a juicy envelope or can of wet food.

The most entertaining thing for your pet will be to discover how he can tear all that paper to pieces and see the chaos it can cause, so let him enjoy and do not want to clean up the waste that he generates right away.

2024 has been a difficult year and the world is still struggling to overcome covid-19. Lockdowns have been imposed and people are confined to their homes. They are spending more time at home than ever. This is the time to have a perfect pet like a teacup puppy that doesn’t even need outdoor activity and keeps you happy all the time.

Teacup puppies are the smaller and cuter versions of normal dogs. The name teacup is used for them because they are literally small enough to fit in a teacup. Teacup versions of most of the dog breeds are available.

The most common teacup puppies are from the following breeds

  • Pomeranians
  • Maltese
  • Maltipoo
  • Poodle
  • Yorkshire terriers
  • Shih tzu

Due to their smaller size and cute appearance, they have gained considerable attention over the past decade. The most exciting thing about having a teacup puppy is that you can carry them anywhere with you as they can fit into your pocket or bag, hence accompanying you all around the town.

If you manage to take care of their health, they can accompany you even up to 15 years. When you have a larger dog, you need to have enough space for them or but in the case of teacup puppies, it is not necessary to have a large space for them to thrive. They can easily be adjusted to a small apartment which makes it easier to keep the space clean due to less shedding. They can be kept by the people who have homes with pet size restrictions.

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Unlike larger dogs, they are less likely to be aggressive and irritable and can be a friendly companion. They have docile nature which makes it easier to carry them wherever you go, even when traveling.  It is convenient to dine in and shop when you have your pet with you because most of the shopping malls and restaurants allow going inside with your little friend. Their small size means they don’t need a lot of food or preventive medications resulting in lower ownership costs. Although they do not require long walks proper exercise and socialization are good for their mental and physical health.

Teacup puppies require very little exercise daily. Actually, their exercise requirements are met while playing indoors. Teacup puppies can be your best friend for 13-16 years if they are taken care of properly. This sounds a bit amazing because the average life span of normal dogs is 12-13 years so it means teacup puppies outlive them by 2-3 years.

The small size of teacup puppies can be a problem sometimes. For example, they are fragile and vulnerable to rough handling by kids. They can get injured easily if they fall from a height or car stepped on. So, teacup puppies need to be handled carefully and with love.

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If you want to get a teacup puppy as a pet, you can get one from Yas Puppies. All the puppies are up to date on the shots and come with a one-year health guarantee.

Teacup puppies are the perfect pets to have during this pandemic. Lockdown restrictions have forced people to stay home. Most can’t go out even for exercise. Teacup puppies require no outdoor exercise and are happy indoors. They are very playful and lively and keep you entertained.

When the dogs weigh between two to five pounds and are fewer than 17 inches, they are considered teacup puppies. However, they can vary in size and eight as they are not an official breed. Chihuahua, Shih Tzu, Pomeranian, and Maltese are popular teacup breeds.  They are also called toy dog breeds and micro dogs.

Teacup puppies are very friendly and lovely pets and they form a friendly bond with the family easily. They don’t require much space to live and need lesser food. Their small size with cute eyes just melts your heart at a glance.

They are called teacup because they have a very small size and can even fit inside a teacup. Their miniature sizing puts them at certain health risks so if you are going to have teacup puppies you must be aware of that. They are prone to hypoglycemia and their sugar level can go dangerously low even if they skip one meal as they have a high metabolic rate. This can result in weakness, seizures, and sometimes even death. Due to having smaller, fragile bones, they are susceptible to fractures. They can be stepped on or dropped which can result in accidental killing so if you have young children teacup puppies might not be the best choice.

If they get sick, they are harder to treat because of their small organs and frame. They suffer from a number of congenital diseases like pulmonary stenosis and congenital liver diseases due to forced breeding techniques and malnutrition. About 40% of teacup puppies suffer chronic vulvar diseases. But the truth is health problems exist in all the dogs of all the breeds of all sizes. What’s noteworthy is that they can live for 13-16 years if they are taken care of properly. Their life span is longer than normal dogs.

Before having the teacup puppy, you must make sure that you are not buying from a breeder who has stunted the growth of the dog on purpose by not providing the essential nutrition. However, it is very much possible to have a healthy and happy teacup puppy after you research a little to find the ethical teacup breeder.

Teacup puppies are small in size and require no too few treats. they eat little so they are low maintenance pets. They are comfortable in small flats and do not require much space for housing. They require little exercise and their physical activity requirements can be met by even playing indoors.

If you are looking for a teacup puppy as a pet, Yas Puppies has the best collection available. All of the puppies are up to date on the shots and come with a one-year health guarantee. So, get a teacup puppy and make your life more fun.

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Cleaning cat litter is one of the most thankless chores, yet it must be done often to prevent the spread of bad odors throughout the house. To avoid this task, the self-cleaning litter will be essential. But which self-cleaning litter box to choose from? To find the one that works best for your feline, let’s have a look at some of the best self-cleaning litter boxes.

Pet safe PAL19-14656

Scoop-free Ultra is an ultra-automatic electric self-cleaning litter that brings comfort to your life and that of your cat. You will appreciate the practical and hygienic solution offered by this innovative model.

The Pet safe Scoop free Ultra stands out for its fast and efficient cleaning system. With a tray covered with premium blue crystals, this litter provides odor and long-lasting waste. This model offers the possibility of setting the timer to customize the raking time, in programs 5, 10, or 20 minutes after the passage of the animal. Cat waste moves to a hidden area using the automated rake.

Scoop-free litter has different sensors that detect the presence of your feline. Its silent engine is not likely to disturb the cat. This self-cleaning litter has been designed for easy use. After installing the Scoop free, then install the Blue Crystal litter box underneath, program the system and enjoy a month of tranquillity without chores.

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Omega Paw Roll n’ Clean Litter

You dream of an easy-to-clean litter box without having to use a shovel, but your budget is very limited. The Omega Paw Roll n’ Clean Litter is what you need.

Very innovative, this Omega Paw Roll litter fits all budgets. You can now clean the litter box without a cat shovel. Your cats’ feces are easily separated, just turn the toilet. Waste can be recycled with a removable drawer.

Spend good days with your felines not to smell bad smells with this self-cleaning litter. Cleaning is done easily and quickly.

Jlxl001 Automatic (MEET)

The ideal would be not to touch anything, but to clean everything. This automatic litter self-cleanses and adapts to all sizes.

Already put to the test, this MEET litter proposed by Omega Paw Roll has a pool height suitable for cats from three months. The rubber pads that extend into the front part make it easy for your cat to get in and out.

Whether you have a large kitty or a small one, this litter is perfectly wide to accommodate them. It is recommended to use cat litter particles in bentonite or crushed tofu sand to keep this machine running smoothly.

Xinxia1 123-558-274

It must be said that the smell of cat litter is really unpleasant. This falls now, the design of this litter is completely closed which effectively prevents the smell from spreading.

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Perfectly suited for cats of all sizes, the Xinxie litter1 123-558-274 offers a huge space. It consists of a cardboard driveway that prevents cat litter from coming out. For cleaning, a shovel with easy use is available to you.

Easy to clean, the edge of this self-cleaning litter has a non-stick structure that will not form a residue. A single wash is all it takes for this box to be usable again.

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How Does the Cat Choose Its Owner? https://thepetster.com/how-does-the-cat-choose-its-owner/ https://thepetster.com/how-does-the-cat-choose-its-owner/#respond Thu, 04 Jan 2024 18:54:44 +0000 https://thepetster.com/2024/01/04/how-does-the-cat-choose-its-owner/ It is important when you adopt a cat that you first understand its true nature. It is not a model of sociability, quite the contrary. It is a solitary animal, quite capable of living alone. You’ve probably already noticed it. However, he is a relational animal. In other words, he can develop relationships, whether with other cats or with ... Read more

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It is important when you adopt a cat that you first understand its true nature. It is not a model of sociability, quite the contrary. It is a solitary animal, quite capable of living alone. You’ve probably already noticed it.

However, he is a relational animal. In other words, he can develop relationships, whether with other cats or with human beings. But only when he finds his interest there, or if he does not lose in the change. The cat is therefore also an interested animal. He develops his relationships based on the benefits he can derive from them. Eh yes! He can therefore change masters if he finds that the grass is greener elsewhere.

Does that mean he doesn’t like you? Rest assured! He loves you. A recent study conducted in the United States confirmed that the cat developed sincere and real affection for its owner. When he chooses a person, he really becomes attached to that person.

Does the cat choose its owner? The cat has no master…

It is also important to note that the cat does not really have a master. Quite simply because – unlike dogs – he obeys no one. It is not a docile animal that will sit down if you give it the order. Nor will he comply with every snap of his finger. As you have probably already noticed, he does what he wants.

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You are therefore its owner, but not its master. Because in reality, he does not seek it and does not want it. What he seeks in a relationship is more of collaboration, or even a friendship. You give him a comfortable roof, good food and a few hugs every now and then. And he, for his part, will get rid of rats and mice.

It is through this exchange that links are forged and strengthened. But be careful, if he feels he is being mistreated, or if the neighbor treats him better, he will not hesitate to replace you!

How does the cat choose its owner? Criteria

To develop relationships, the cat therefore engages in careful selection. This sorting will be based on three main criteria: behavior, moods, and needs.

How does the cat choose its owner based on behavior?

The cat is a calm and temperate animal. He will thus tend to choose his “friends” according to their temperament and inherent behavior. He will generally avoid people, who are abrupt, tend to move too much, and speak loudly. Not only because it will disturb his peace of mind, but also because he will consider any violent gesture and behavior as violent, and therefore a possible threat.

On the other hand, he will prefer the company of calm and peaceful people like him. Because with them, he will feel much more secure.

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How does the cat choose its owner according to moods?

You should know that cats very easily detect the moods of those around them, especially humans. And this, only thanks to their posture, their gaze and their smells . Based on these three criteria as well, he can guess if you are sad, nervous, stressed, anxious, angry … or on the contrary, happy, cheerful or in a jovial mood.

Therefore, if you are often stressed out or have tantrums, he may not adopt you. Rather, he will turn to someone whom he deems – again – less dangerous.

How does the cat choose its owner according to needs?

As said before, the choice of the cat will also be dictated by his interests. Not that he’s interested; it’s just his survival instinct. Thus, he will choose the person who can meet his basic needs, namely:

Food: insofar as it is domesticated, and it cannot hunt either, it will therefore depend entirely on its “master” for food. He will therefore choose the person who will feed him the best.

Home: the cat needs a place where he feels safe, where he can take refuge and where to rest. Like any animal, it needs to have its own territory. He will therefore favor the master who can offer it to him.

The company: although he is not really sociable, and rather lonely, the cat still needs company. From time to time, he will want to be stroked, played with, etc. Even then, he will want to sleep next to you. It’s his way of dealing with stress or calming fears. Therefore, he will prefer the person who gives him enough time for these little cuddles.

Litter boxes are a necessary evil for cats. They produce all sorts of chemicals that shouldn’t be disposed of in the regular waste as they do their thing. There are plenty of ways to rid the litter box of smells without having to replace the entire fixture, but the more compact size of DIY litter boxes makes them handy and eco-friendly solutions. In addition, adding an enclosure to your existing litter box lets you conveniently clean and maintain this often vacant area. Not only does this save you from having to purchase expensive and frequently useless accessories, but it also cuts down on the number of times the litter box needs to be emptied. Here at catandwood, you can buy a cat litter box enclosure meager price than the other source online.

Add Trim Around the Cat Door

(Image credit: Excited Cats)

If you’ve ever been concerned about cats entering your home, a tiny, almost invisible cat door may be your answer. Use pine, birch, or oak trim to construct a cover to fit over your cat door. The door itself is simple to find at any hardware store or thrift store, and it can do most of the doorway opening sizes. You can also download some DIY plans for this project to get you started. Cover Your Cat Wall Wall-mounted cat toys can be a super fun way to play with your cats, but they can get a little distracting if you’re trying to focus on the task at hand – keeping the litter box area in good shape. Keeping them off the floor lets you keep an eye on them and helps prevent them from jumping on a nearby human or pet.

Put a Litter Box Inside a Large Basket

                                                    Image by All the Little Details via Pinterest.

  1. This DIY is an easy DIY to make. Just take an empty basket, make a door, add wheels, and you’re done!
  2. You will need about five boxes and wire wool. First, cut the wire wool to size and push it into the box. Then, put in a bag of litter and load the basket with small paper towels. Finally, roll it around until it looks good.
  3. For a nice finish, you can add a handle to the basket. DIY Kitty Styling Station
  4. For this nifty hack, insert the litter box into a tall cupboard, using an anchor point at the top and bottom of the door. Ensure the top of the closet is at least 4 inches off the floor so that the foot does not contact the litter box.
  5. Using screws, create an extra shelf inside the cupboard where the litter box is stored.

Build a Mini Cat House Litter Cover

(Image credit: Laura Gummerman)

This feline-friendly version of a litter box is the perfect addition to your home. Wacky Adornments to Match Your Cat’s Personality These buttons and baubles will take a boring litter box design to a whole new level. Practical DIY Feline-Friendly Cat Litter Box This clever DIY project requires a few simple supplies, including a box cutter, spray paint, scrap wood, and one vinyl sticker. Proper Utensils for Any Cat Litter Box These feline-friendly tools are excellent for decluttering the litter box and cleaning up any extra messes your cat leaves behind. A Perfect Feline Storage Solution With a purpose-built tray, you’ll never have to deal with a dirty litter box again.

Keep the Litter Cabinet Organized

(Image credit: IKEAhackers)

Whether your cat is scared to go inside their new home or they just haven’t been able to adjust, it’s best to keep their litter box separate from the rest of the house until they adapt to their new environment. By creating a unique cabinet in their new home, you can display their litter box prominently and keep it neat. You can even make this clean and organized space within your existing cabinet to add a pop of color to the otherwise drab fixture. In addition, incorporate other decorative pieces that will give your wardrobe a cozy feel, such as a decorative rug, cutesy souvenirs, or decorative art. Add the Option of Shading the View Having a hidden litter box in your home can be very important to some people, and your cats are no exception.

You might also like:  Savannah cats are very attractive and exotic pets

Paint a Pattern on a Basic Litter Box Cover

(Image credit: sugarandcloth)

One of the most accessible and attractive DIY litter boxes we’ve seen is the metal-wrapped cat litter box. You can give the top of this litter box an eye-catching touch by painting it in the pattern of your choice. This makes it an excellent choice for any color scheme or theme you might have in mind. You can also grab a glue gun and craft another colored bottom for a different feel. Once you’re done painting, you can seal the whole thing in polyurethane for protection. Invest in Pet Litter Container Enclosures If you don’t want t o make any modifications to your cat litter box, you could always upgrade to something that comes with its own enclosure. There are plenty of options out there to choose from, but there is only one downside — they can be expensive.

Remove Drawers and Install a Hinged Door

(Image credit: TrueValue)

This homemade tin cabinet, built by Chris Coyne for Cat In The Boardroom, features a space-saving design with a “hinged door” that can be used to hide your litter box. After using this quick and easy kit, your little buddy can easily get in and out of the cabinet. Don’t worry about what smells are going to come out because all of your cat’s excrement will be contained in the litter box, keeping them safe from a bad case of the runs. Broom & Box Corner Not every guy is going to want to spend the money on a custom-made litter box, and you might not want to spend a ton of time building something for your home. You can always add a small corner bin and broom to help keep dirt and odors at bay. Get this DIY built-in for $20 in wood and another $12 in paint.

Hide the Litter Box Under the Sink

(Image credit: DigsDigs)

Get creative and make a cabinet or shelf that hides the dirty litter. A cabinet that offers cat access to food and water is a great idea. It’s a simple and effective idea that requires minimal investment. Make a Cat Tree A cat tree can also be a great hideaway for your litter box. Once built, it can be a safe resting place for your kitty for an extra special treat! You can create a perfect space for your little cat with this awesome floor mat inspired by cat furniture. Vintage Themed Cat Hideaway When we think of cats, we imagine them sleeping under a cozy blanket or lounging in front of the fireplace. A rustic cabin built like a classic log cabin can be an excellent home for cats. But this type of cabin that’s built of a large number of planks and logs can cause some noise.

Install a Cat Door in Wardrobe Cabinet

(Image credit: Rover)

If you have more than one cat, this clever trick is for you. This clever installation keeps cats safe from predators when they’re in the house and gives them access to the outdoors. You’ll need a wardrobe cabinet (like this one from Ikea) and a pet door (such as this one from Cover) installed. Install the door and store the litter in the cabinet with a special cat litter tray. Check out more great DIY bathroom makeovers and dog accessory ideas. Litter Box Bench for Cats and Dogs Cats and dogs both like to scratch, but we’ve found a simple solution that will protect your hardwood floors. Litter boxes can usually fit on top of our regular footstools, but they’re usually designed for larger animals.

Drape Fabric Around an End Table

(Image credit: sawsonskates)

A tabletop cat box is a brilliant solution when the tray on your cat-chaired end table is littered with mail, keys, and other items. Simply purchase a pet-proof litter box tray from the store and wrap it in a fabric panel. For a cleaner look, add an inexpensive clear vinyl sticker. The logo will look cute next to the tray’s paint. Transform a Den If you’re downsizing or moving, you can easily pick up a sturdy faux-wood rectangular platform, like this one from House Spirit. Add a piece of plywood below to provide the perfect base for the bed of your choice. We love the more rustic look of this cat box. It was made with reclaimed wood.

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Add Curtains to a Console Table

(Image credit: Dimples and Tangles)

Just like the console table above, this DIY console table was a great way to hide a big task from our furry friends. Instead of having to clean up the litter box all the time, you can now hide the litter box inside the console table, keeping it safe from the mess. Undercover Litter Box Many DIY builders were quick to spot the clever utility of hiding a litter box in a drawer. Using a 2-drawer side and bottom dresser from IKEA, all you need is some hardware and furniture tape. As with many other home furniture DIY, this project will take a bit of time and patience. Thin-Lined Cat Bin There’s something special about looking through a cat-safe trash can. This DIY hack, which fits easily in the lid of your trash can, helps you keep the cat-toilet area clean and easy to clean.

Build a Custom Kitty Litter Box

(Image credit: Ikeahackers)

The Three Blind Mice Co. did a great job recreating this mint green masterpiece. This made-in-the-U.S. original shelter is a work of art that will delight you and your kitty alike. In the meanwhile, your animal friend will continue to enjoy a comfy and private seat. If you’re looking for something more modern and a little brighter, you can opt for this geometric-designed option from Campsite. It’s a great decor piece that has a lot of charm, but at the same time, the litter box does not look out of place. We also love that there are contrasting colors and textured materials to give the design some pizzazz. It looks like it belongs at a museum and will definitely add a lot of personality to your home.

Use the Inside of a Bench for Kitty Litter Storage

(Image credit: Foter)

This clever and affordable indoor bench is simple to build from spare wood. Once you’ve fashioned the hideaway box, you simply need to construct a shelf inside the bench to hold the litter. The floor also needs to be sealed, so you don’t track litter around the house. Cool Ways to Make a Small, Accent Crate a Little More Personality Choose a Cool Cat Litter Box Image Although it’s not as pretty as the modern, orange-and-black patent design below, this simple DIY outfitter keeps the lid accessible. Use an adhesive clamp to glue the lid to the platform before adding a shelf to store a scoop and a litter tray inside.

Convert a Bedroom Dresser into Litter Box Storage

(Image credit: HGTV)

This roomy, modern home entertainment center is completely full of storage for the comforts of your cats. You can buy a litter box, but you’ll probably want a good place to keep it during the day, too. When it comes to luxury cat furniture, the bed on this bed will offer a private, cozy spot to sit and snuggle. If you want to combine the two, just add some blanket. Turn a Pillow into a Cat Litter Box Cover It’s the perfect pillow for relaxing, but we have a better use for this pillow: as a cat box cover. It’s lightweight and functional, and there are several locations for litter box access (under the pillow, inside the pillow cover, and inside the head of the pillow). You can even extend the box out and use a bag of litter as a drop-in litter.

Repurpose a Tote for a Larger Litter Box

(Image credit: Barbara Adamcik)

Most people think of portable totes as places to store shopping bags, but this one is a better place to store the litter box. Watch this story for more details. Fix the Stinky Carpet With Paint Did you know you can paint your carpet? You can even find a pre-applied sealer to give your long-neglected carpet a shiny new look. The best part? It’s cheap and easy! Even Without a Carpet, it’s Still Easy to Hide a Litter Box By adding layers of paint, and you can create the illusion of a carpet in your home. This home design blogger is giving her downstairs bath a new look with a completely covered area. Add Litter Box Jars to a Rope Climb You can also create a climbable cat tree using climbing rings and big boxes. Watch this quick DIY to see how this system works.

Add Playful Decals Outside the Cat Door

(Image credit: Pets Lady)

Since the idea behind this hidden cat door is to prevent the litter box from getting scuffed up by being outside, a fun way to give the box a happy home is to create a play area for your cat. You can create a bright, colorful design to help your cat feel playful and stop them from scratching and marking up the door too much. Just choose your favorite decals online and watch them appear on the bottom of the door for an added touch of cuteness. Use Tape to Hide the Box From Extruders The best solution for this pesky issue of cat litter clogging up countertops, cabinets, and other hard-to-reach places? Use tape. You’ll find the best tape-in many department stores and drug stores for both home and office use.

Put the Cat Door on the Top of a Cabinet

(Image credit: Ikeahackers)

Make a litter box space hidden from sight. This ingenious solution uses a window ledge as a litter box door. With a few small upgrades (like screws) and wooden crates or crates with metal covers, your cat can enter and exit the litter box area with ease. Buy a trash can to conceal a litter box. Install a trash can and/or food dish on top of an entertainment center. The extra space and well-designed design make this litter box a practical option. Lay a sheet across a kitchen table to hide the cat litter box. Lay down a waterproof or thick plastic sheet to camouflage the litter box. Lay the sheet over the top of the table, then set up the litter box.

Create a Cat Walk to Remove Excess Litter

(Image credit: instructables)

Place this striking catwalk in the middle of your home or office to give your feline friends a private, comfortable place to take care of their business. It’s especially great for relieving the stress on your paws. Simply cut a piece of furniture in the shape of a U. Using long nails or screws, secure the ‘U’ on the wall or ceiling, creating a catwalk. Then, just add some cushioning for maximum comfort. Keep a Trim around the Toilet to Protect Your Porch No matter how you feel about litter boxes, and you have to admit they are useful. They’re low maintenance and cheap to buy, plus you can set one up at your front door to keep garbage out and for easy clean-up. This clever solution involves building a box to shield your front steps from the litter.

Cat need to access their own private space

(Image credit: instructables)

A new coat of paint on a baseboard or piece of furniture is a great way to transform the look and feel of a small space, and this DIY looks amazing and comes with surprisingly low maintenance. To create the cubby, first drill two holes in the baseboard, then attach two more small screws with the included hex key. Next, simply drill two holes for the metal stakes, attach them to the baseboard, and use the included screws to secure them in place. Repeat this process two more times around the baseboard for a total of four new holes. This simple custom make will hide the handle of your litter box and will allow your cat to access their own private space, so it can do its business without annoying you.

Conclusion

(Image credit: CatandWood)

Making a comfortable indoor litter box can be challenging. Fortunately, there are several solutions you can take advantage of to make it a comfortable space for your cats. Utilize these ideas, and your cats will love having their own cozy spot. And I Would say that the DIY cost a lot of time and money also, that it’s better to buy at catandwood.com instead of making it yourself. Have you tried one of these cool litter box projects?  if so, share your thoughts in the comments below.

A litter box is a necessity for all cat owners, yet finding a great spot to put it has always been a problem. However, there are many types of litter box furniture available to help find a solution to this problem. We’ve looked into many different styles and cabinets and have found that the best cat litter box furniture is the Refined Cat Litter Box Deluxe from The Refined Feline.

Things you should consider when buying cat litter box furniture:

The Cost of The Litter Box Cabinet

As with all other products for our beloved cat, the cost is a big factor choosing the items we buy. Some manufacturers offer more expensive options but the features that they offer are the most important factor. Therefinedfeline.com offers a moderately priced option that is the best bang for your buck. Cheaper options are often made of material that can not hold up against odors and moisture. The last thing you want is for the cabinet to absorb anything from the litter. One good option for the cabinet to be made of is solid wood. This is exactly what this one from The Refined Feline is made of. It even includes a plastic liner on the inside to keep the litter in one place.

The Size of The Litter Box Cabinet

When choosing the appropriate furniture for your cat, make sure that it will fit both your cat and the litter box. Many cabinets are only offered in one size but this one is offered in 2 sizes that will fit even an automatic litter box. You should also consider where you will be placing this cabinet in your home.

The Design of The Litter Box Cabinet

Some litter box furniture doesn’t take into account the design. However, unique modern cat furniture from The Refined Feline is all about design. Their furniture is offered in many different colors and designs. In fact, it’s customizable so that you can choose the door panel and foot design that you like. Not only does it look nice though, it is also functional. Inside of this cabinet you will find a storage drawer. In the back there are even ventilation slots. These slots can hold carbon filters to absorb the odors. This will prevent the odors from entering your home and will also keep the air fresh inside the cabinet.

The Accessibility of The Litter Box Cabinet

At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter what kind of litter box furniture you get if your cat can’t use it. Make sure that your cat is fully able to get in and out of the enclosure with ease. If your cat is older you may want to keep the enclosure lower to the ground and not put feet on it. You could also add a litter catch to not only catch the stray litter but to act as a step up.

In Conclusion: The Best Litter Box Cabinet

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A cat litter box cabinet is a practical and functional way to hide the litter box and also make cleaning up easier. This solution is especially ideal if you are short on space and don’t have much of a choice when it comes to the litter box location.

Savannah cats are an ideal alternative to African servals. Savannah cats are very intelligent and can be adopted by dedicated individuals. Captive servals were being sold to pet shops and individuals who wanted an exotic pet.F1 Savannah cats are hybrids that are 50% domestic and 50% African serval. They are very easy to keep and are less likely to attack other cats.
F1 Savannah kittens are specifically bred to be aggressive. This makes them a safer choice for people who are afraid of wild animals. They have long legs and a distinctive appearance.

The F1 Savannah Kittens organization hopes that the more domesticated savannah cats will eventually replace the African servals as pets. African servals are very social animals and require a lot of space to roam. They are also hard to medicate and prefer isolation. F1 Savannah kittens are very popular among exotic pet lovers. Max thinks that these cats are ideal for people who have always wanted a wild cat. He said that they were created for those who would not be able to care for a cat that would be detrimental to their health.

We wanted to create a place where Savannah cats could be raised without being subjected to the cruel conditions that they were kept in.

You might also like:  How to tame a wild or stray cat.

These cats are very playful and love to play with toys. They are very good with children and are eager to learn.

Like French bulldogs, these cats are very affectionate and loveable. However, they can also be very territorial and cling to their owners.

Bengal cats are hybrids of a domestic cat and an Asian Leopard.

Bengal cats are known for their fur patterns and unusual body sizes. They are also known for their love for people. These cats are very affectionate and get along well with dogs. They’re often associated with French bulldogs. These pets have longer and fluffier coats than most bulldogs. According to John Carter, these pets are more affordable than the average price of rare specimens. Even cheaper French bulldogs of this nature can cost thousands of dollars.

French bulldogs have coats that can vary from black, blue, chocolate, fawn, isabella white, and lilac.

Due to the popularity of these animals on social media platforms, responsible breeders are taking extra care to ensure that these pets are kept safe and sound.

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Why Do Cats Chase Their Tails? https://thepetster.com/why-do-cats-chase-their-tails/ https://thepetster.com/why-do-cats-chase-their-tails/#respond Thu, 04 Jan 2024 18:16:41 +0000 https://thepetster.com/2024/01/04/why-do-cats-chase-their-tails/ There are behaviors of our cats that we find curious, even funny. One of them could be this: that the feline begins to spin like crazy while he tries to chase his tail. And although it catches our attention, some owners are concerned about this way of acting for their animals. Is it Normal for ... Read more

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There are behaviors of our cats that we find curious, even funny. One of them could be this: that the feline begins to spin like crazy while he tries to chase his tail. And although it catches our attention, some owners are concerned about this way of acting for their animals.

Is it Normal for My Cat to Chase his Tail?

Yes and no. It is normal for him to do so, as it is within his own feline behavior, but it is a situation that we must monitor because if there are problems or signs of damage to the tail, we will have to intervene. We refer to the absence of hair on the tail, scratches or blows, wounds caused by furniture and walls or by the cat’s teeth, and even mutilations caused by the game itself or by the animal.

Therefore, it is a characteristic of these animals that responds to their own character. Still, it can become an obsession and affect the cat’s health. Therefore, if the appearance of the tail is normal and there are no wounds or bald spots, we will let him act calmly; that is, we will let the tail be chased as long as he wants.

Of course, we should mention it to the veterinarian in the next visit, as this professional will examine if there is a problem in the anus, an allergy, or excessive itching due to the presence of fleas. If the specialist confirms that the animal is healthy, we do not have to worry about this unique behavior.

But Why is the Tail Being Chased?

As we have already advanced, it is in the feline nature itself. We must remember that cats have the hunting instinct in their genes and chasing the tail is within their behavior as a hunting animal. On the other hand, they also do it as part of a game. Cats are animals that seem isolated from the world, calm, but also bored or stressed. Chasing the tail is a game with which they manage to entertain themselves or calm their state of nervousness.

Finally, we must emphasize that there are animals that, although it may not seem like it, are more restless than others. Therefore, this behavior is still a way to channel his excess energy. It is also very common in cats that do not have access to the outside, as their life is much more leisurely and carefree, so this game provides them with a bit of action.

If we want to reduce these acts, either because the animal has become obsessed, or because it hurts himself during the game, the ideal is that we dedicate time to the cat. Let’s play with him, let’s take him for a walk, let’s pamper him, etc. There are times when this behavior denotes a wake-up call because they remain alone for a long time. Spending time with our pets reduces stress levels, helps release energy, and ends boredom.

Other Reasons

For young kittens, tail chasing can be seen as exploratory behavior, while in adult cats we must see if it is compulsive or psychological behavior. The common reasons why this disorder appears are:

  • He needs to socialize more.
  • Travels, home moves, and changes in his life.
  • He needs more stimulation
  • Bad experiences or trauma.
  • Stress and fear.

Why Do Cats Wag Their Tails while Lying Down?

The tail of cats can tell us many things depending on their movement, i. e., it gives us information about the emotional state of our cat. In the event that our cat is lying down and begins to wag his tail, it is a good sign, it means that he is calm. Pay attention if, while gently wagging his tail, he also purrs.

If the kitten is lying down and wags his tail abruptly while maintaining a surprising look with large eyes, it may be that he is getting ready to play or wants to play. However, if he wags his tail while lying down and you approach him and he leaves, he may be a bit stressed or upset. The important thing is to know how to differentiate how the cat moves his tail since depending on which direction they do it, they may be saying that they do not feel well and for that, you should read the next section.

Different Positions of Cat Tails and what they Mean?

Along with the eyes and whiskers, the tail is one of the most characteristic features of felines and also fulfills an important mission. Thanks to it they are able to relate and communicate both with their environment and with human beings. Learning to master and interpret a cat’s body language is only a matter of time and deciphering the mood behind its different movements and positions. These are some of the most common:

  • Vertical or raised tail: If the cat’s tail is in this position, the meaning is very positive. A kitten with a raised tail is happy, confident, has a friendly attitude, and wishes to show his affection to those around him. If, in addition, the tip of the tail is slightly bent, this represents the maximum state of joy.
  • Low tail: On the contrary, a stiff tail in a low position means that a storm is coming. The cat thus announces great anger and, beware; it could be the preamble of an aggressive attitude.
  • Ruffled tail: When a cat bristles his tail, the volume of his tail grows and in this way, it tries to appear larger to face an enemy or a danger. With this posture, the cat announces his agitation, his anger and confronts those who threaten him or try to frighten him. It is basically a defense posture.
  • Tail sweeping the floor: In this case, the meaning can be variable. If the tail wags and, at the same time, brushes the ground, it could indicate that the cat is interested in something or wants to play. It can also be a sign of anger when the movement is accompanied by tapping on the ground.
  • Tail with whip motion (side to side): Attention, angry cat. In this case, it is a warning sign. The animal warns that someone does not like or does not tolerate something that is happening around him.
  • Rapid movement of the tip of the tail: The cat will always react with this movement to a pleasant stimulus that produces great emotion: our arrival home, something that is attractive to him, etc.
  • Hidden tail: If the kitten hides the tail or rolls it under his body, it means that he is afraid and that something or someone is causing it. Also, he might want to convey disappointment at not having accomplished something. As a general rule, the lower the tail, the lower the feline’s mood.
  • Swinging tail: A tail that sways from side to side with slow, smooth, and deliberate movements generally indicates that the cat is calm and focused on something. This attitude used to be common in cats when they want to bring out their most hunter side.
  • Tail with vigorous movements: If, on the other hand, the cat’s tail moves strongly forward and backward, it can mean a mixture of fear, aggressiveness, and anger. Be very careful because the next move could be to bite or scratch. The faster he wags his tail, the more disgruntled he will be.

When Should We Worry?

Cats can be obsessed with this behavior becoming a problem for them. If you see him doing it all the time, every day, and you can’t change it by making him play or other activities, then is important to see the root of the problem to be able to help your cat.

Serious Cases

As mentioned above, if you notice that your cat’s tail is bleeding, missing hair or other abnormalities after his tail has been chased, you should be alert because it is not normal. These behaviors may be due to neurological or psychological problems and he will need you to take him to a vet as soon as possible.

Sometimes cats can also injure themselves by chasing their tails due to stress or inattention as many cat breeds are very sensitive to loneliness. If the cat is stressed due to loneliness, you should make changes in your daily routine to help your cat feel better, if you can, adopt another kitten or leave him with someone during the hours that you will not be with him to alleviate the stress.

The best option is to consult a veterinarian who is a specialist in animal behavior to help you improve the quality of life of the cat. On the other hand, it should be noted that if you have neglected your kitten in terms of fleas, it may be that his tail is chased because that area is very itchy or it may also be suffering from some osteoporosis problem in that area.

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6 Natural Foods for Your Dog https://thepetster.com/6-natural-foods-for-your-dog/ https://thepetster.com/6-natural-foods-for-your-dog/#respond Thu, 04 Jan 2024 14:47:33 +0000 https://thepetster.com/2024/01/04/6-natural-foods-for-your-dog/ Natural foods for your dog. This may not be something that immediately comes to mind when thinking about your dog’s diet. You probably eat more organic and unprocessed food yourself – and you know how crucial good and natural food is to your overall health. People who switch to organic foods notice a boost in ... Read more

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Natural foods for your dog. This may not be something that immediately comes to mind when thinking about your dog’s diet. You probably eat more organic and unprocessed food yourself – and you know how crucial good and natural food is to your overall health. People who switch to organic foods notice a boost in their energy levels. Their skin condition improves, their resistance improves, they have fewer colds and they recover faster from illnesses. The health benefits of natural and organic food appear to have long-term beneficial effects.

Now that eating organic, natural food has proven its positive effects on humans, you increasingly hear the question of whether this also works for dogs. Natural foods help your dog to live a healthier and happier life. As puppy parents, we want nothing more of course. But the higher price you pay for your dog’s natural foods is worth it. Does it improve the health of your dog – does he get sick less quickly and often, does his resistance increase, does it improve the condition of his skin and coat, does he have more energy? With the following benefits of natural foods for your dog, it is certainly worthwhile to switch to an organic and natural diet for your four-legged friend.

What is the natural food for your dog?

It is natural to want the absolute best for your puppy, so you may want to consider switching to natural foods for your dog. Doing research is important to understand the benefits of natural food for dogs. Besides, that healthy dog ​​food contains the right ingredients, it is just as important how these are obtained. If dog food contains ingredients that have been obtained in a responsible manner, this will always be stated on the packaging. This can be in the list of ingredients or by means of a quality mark.

By feeding your rascal natural dog food, you contribute to the overall health of your dog. Because organic food contains high-quality nutrients, they contribute to the health, energy level, coat and skin condition, clear eyes, better stool, and the happiness of your dog. Feeding your dog high-quality food will help him feel healthy and happy. This also contributes to your bond – so you can spend more time together. Go out together for a nice walk and experience new adventures. It will significantly increase your happiness in life and decrease the number of visits to the vet!

Reduction of skin conditions and allergies.

If your dog has allergies or a nasty skin condition, you’ve probably tried “everything” in hopes of getting some relief from your dog. You probably think if medicines or creams that your vet has prescribed do not help, why natural food does? Natural food can give your dog the best long-term chance to fight off skin infections and allergies. It is free of artificial color and flavor enhancers, chemical additives, and toxic pesticides that can be the source of allergies for your dog. Organic dog food contains high-quality proteins and grain sources of exceptional nutritional value. This supports your rascal’s immune system to help build resistance to skin infections.

 Less digestive disorders.

High-quality nutrients from grains and proteins and free from chemicals and artificial substances make natural dog foods more digestible. If your dog occasionally vomits after his meal or has frequent bloating or diarrhea, check with your vet to make sure he doesn’t have an underlying illness. Switching to organic, natural food will make your rascal feel better and you will certainly notice the difference. It is the high nutritional value of organic dog food that makes a difference. Since it is naturally more nutritious, a smaller portion will suffice your rascal. Natural dog foods do not contain “fillers” which use cheaper, commercial varieties.

More flavor

In addition, your rascal will certainly prefer natural nutrition in terms of taste. Because there are no “fillers” in this but pure, healthy ingredients, they taste much better. Your rascal will feel more satisfied by eating smaller portions. An organic diet can help your dog lose weight and get more exercise. Easily digestible oats, barley, or other natural whole grains and high-quality turkey, lamb, or chicken make a huge difference to your dog’s digestive system. Instead of consuming corn or other cheap “belly fillers” and chemical additives, your puppy will only absorb what he needs for a healthy metabolism. Your four-legged friend eats and eliminates less when on a natural diet. This will also allow him to have a predictable bowel movement with the firm,

Better overall health and stronger immunity.

Even if your dog does not suffer from skin conditions, obesity, or digestive problems, natural dog food can still be beneficial. While almost every brand of dog food claims to be “nutritionally complete,” most vets still recommend “premium” brands of dog food over major commercial brands. This is because the premium brands that offer organic food have better nutritional value. Natural dog food provides nutrients of a higher quality than even the non-organic, premium brands. The food is more digestible for your dog. Because it is more digestible, your dog easily absorbs rather than eliminating the nutrients it needs. This way he maintains a healthy immune system.

Quality of life and longevity.

Just as the quality of your food affects the quality of your life, it also directly affects how your dog looks, feels, and behaves. By feeding your rascal natural food you contribute to a long, happy, and healthy life for your rascal. Feeding a natural, high-quality diet is one part of an overall healthy lifestyle for your dog. A luxurious, shiny coat, energy to run and play, a healthy weight, and a strong immune system can maximize your dog’s life expectancy and quality of life into old age.

 Soopa – for healthy, happy dogs

Soopa has a line of super healthy dog ​​snacks. They are convinced that if you make small changes in your dog’s diet – you are making a big difference in your scamp’s overall health. Soopa products are 100% natural, contain superfood ingredients, and are produced under human-grade standards. The snacks are simple, nutritious, and above all tasty!

Soopa’s snacks are available in different sizes. They have training sweets in their range, but also super healthy dental sticks. Each flavor within the range has its own health benefits for your rascal.

Cook yourself – Cookbook Feed me

Do you want to make sure your rascal only gets the best of the best? And do you want to have an overview of the ingredients that are in natural food? Then cook yourself! This way you are guaranteed that everything is fresh and that you only use the ingredients that he likes and is good for him. Now I hear you think; ok nice cooking yourself, but how? There are many good and healthy cookbooks for this. One of these cookbooks and our personal favorite is “Feed Me”. This cookbook contains 50 easy recipes to cook the most healthy and sustainable meal for your pup. Everything is explained step by step. And you can also bulk boil the food to freeze it. This way you have fresh, natural food for your rascal for a longer period of time.

If you want to learn how to groom your dog at home, you need to know the basics, such as how to cut a dog’s nails. I’ll show you exactly what you need to do and how to do it safely so that know one gets hurt.

Cutting a dog’s fingernails might sound scary but there’s nothing about it that’s difficult. You just have to be careful and know what you’re doing .

You should start off by collecting all of the supplies for this task. This includes, but is not limited to:

  • Nail Trimmer
  • Scissors
  • Styptic Powder (optional)

Now that you’ve got your stuff together, it’s time to get started.

Step 1: Make Your Dog Comfortable

First, make sure your dog is relaxed and comfortable around you. Do this by giving him a treat or two before starting. If possible, start this process after they’ve eaten their meal to help them feel extra sleepy and calm! For anxious dogs, you can even try CBD Oil for Dogs.

Step 2: Prepare The Paw

Second, lift one of your dogs paws into your hand and press gently on the pad of the paw while looking at the tip of each nail. You’ll be able to see where your dog’s skin is and if you cut it, he will bleed and it may hurt him.

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That’s why we use a nail cutter, so we don’t have to worry about hurting our dog when trimming their nails.

Step Three: Secure The Paw

Third, you can feel free to push down on the pad of their paw if it’s more comfortable for you. If your dog is wiggly when you’re trying to hold his paw, you can try this instead!

Step 4: Apply The Cut

Fourth, once you’ve identified where the quick ends in each nail, go ahead and cut just past that point. You’ll only want to cut into the pinkish area on the end of his nail, not into the black part. If you do accidentally cut into this black section, use an absorbent cotton ball to stop the bleeding. After it stops, apply some styptic powder to help the blood clot faster and prevent infection in your dog’s paw. You can then apply some CBD for Pets to promote healing as well.

Step 5: Repeat on All Nails

Fifth, keep trimming until all their nails are the same length.

Step by Step Instructions for Trimming Dog Nails

  1. Pet your dog and make sure they’re comfortable with you
  2. With one paw in each hand, feel for the end of each nail to know where to cut
  3. Cut just past this point (only into the pinkish area)
  4. Keep cutting until all of the nails are the same length
  5. If you accidentally cut into the black part, apply some styptic powder to stop the bleeding

Now that you’ve learned how to cut your dog’s nails, you can feel confident doing it at home! If this process continues to be too stressful for either of you, then why not try bringing them to a groomer?

If you want more information on how to do this and other dog grooming basics, check out the video linked below:

Whether or not dogs dream isn’t known with scientific certainty, but it sure is difficult to imagine that they don’t. We’ve all watched our dogs demonstrate behaviours in their sleep that resemble what they do in a fully awake state. Paddling legs, whining, growling, wagging tails, chewing jowls, and twitching noses inspire us to wonder what our dogs are dreaming about.

What we know about dogs and dreams

While our knowledge on this topic is very limited, the following known information helps us believe that dogs do indeed experience dreams. According to MIT News, Matthew Wilson, a professor of neuroscience at MIT, and Kenway Louie, a graduate student in 2001,  have studied the relationships between memory, sleep and dreams. They found that when rats were trained to run along a circular track for food rewards, their brains created a distinctive firing pattern of neurons (brain cells). The researchers repeated the brain monitoring while the rats were sleeping. Low and behold, they observed the same signature brain activity pattern associated with running whether the rats were awake or asleep. In fact, the memories played at approximately the same speed during sleep as when the rats were awake.

Can we apply this to dogs?

Can we take what is known about dreaming in rats and humans and apply the information to dogs? Wilson believes that we can.”My guess is — unless there is something special about rats and humans — that cats and dogs are doing exactly the same thing,” he said, according to USA Today’s website.

It is known that the hippocampus, the portion of the brain that collects and stores memories, is wired much the same way in all mammals. According to healthday.com, Professor Wilson says, “If you compared a hippocampus in a rat to a dog; in a cat to a human, they contain all of the same pieces.” He believes that as dogs sleep, images of past events replay in their minds, much the same way people recall experiences while dreaming.

In people, it is known that most dreams occur during REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, according to the National Institutes of Health. Dogs also experience periods of REM sleep. Psychology Today’s website says that during REM their breathing becomes more irregular and shallow. There may be muscle twitching during REM and, when one looks closely, rapid eye movements behind closed eyelids can often be observed. It is during REM sleep that behaviours thought to be associated with dreaming (legs paddling, twitching, vocalizing, etc.) are most commonly observed.

What we want to believe about dog dreams

When we observe our dogs as they sleep, it’s just about impossible to imagine that they are not dreaming. Just like the rats studied by Wilson and Louie, it is tempting to believe that our four-legged best buddies are reenacting their recent experiences; playing at the dog park, sniffing in the woods, chewing on a treasured bone, and chasing squirrels.

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The National Institutes of Health says that Sigmund Freud theorized that dreaming was a “safety valve” for our unconscious desires. Perhaps he is correct, and, when our dogs sleep, they dream about catching the neighbour’s pesky cat, continuous belly rubs in conjunction with unlimited dog treats, and stealing the Thanksgiving turkey from the dining room table.

If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian — they are your best resource to ensure the health and well-being of your pets.

Did you know that some authorities feel that 1 out of every 100 dogs that reach 12 years of age develops diabetes mellitus?

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a hormonal problem where the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin, the hormone that helps push sugar (“glucose”) into the body’s cells. Without the insulin, the body’s cells are starving for sugar; unfortunately, this then stimulates the body to produce more and more sugar (in an attempt to feed the cells). That’s why your dog’s blood sugar is so high (what we call a “hyperglycemia”) with diabetes mellitus.

Without insulin, the sugar can’t get into the cells; hence, why you need to give insulin to your dog with a tiny syringe twice a day. In dogs, this is a disease that can be costly to treat and requires twice-a-day insulin along with frequent veterinary visits for the rest of your dog’s life.

So how do you know if your dog has diabetes? Clinical signs of diabetes mellitus in dogs include:

  • Excessive drinking
  • Excessive urination
  • Urinary accidents in the house
  • Dilute urine
  • Overweight or obese
  • Muscle wasting
  • Ravenous appetite
  • Frequent urinary tract infections
  • Weakness
  • Unkempt or poor hair coat
  • Blindness secondary to cataracts
  • Neuropathies (nerve problems)

As your dog gets older, it’s worth talking to your veterinarian about doing routine blood work to make sure your dog is healthy. This blood work will help rule out kidney and liver problems, anaemia, infections, electrolyte problems and diabetes mellitus. The sooner you recognize the clinical signs, the sooner your dog can be treated with insulin and the fewer complications we see as a result.

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So, if you notice any of the signs above, get to a veterinarian right away. Now, continue on for 5 important reasons to test your dog for diabetes:

1. Your dog will live longer

Diabetes mellitus can shorten the lifespan of your dog, as secondary complications and infections can occur. With diabetes, the body is immunosuppressed and more likely to develop diabetic complications which cause long term harm to your dog.

2. Your dog will be able to see

Did you know that the majority of dogs with diabetes eventually go blind from cataracts? Even in well-controlled diabetic dogs, the excess sugar in the body can have secondary effects on the lens of the eye; it causes more water to influx into the lens, which disrupts the clearness of the lens. As a result, cataract formation occurs, resulting in eventual blindness and secondary inflammation in both eyes. While cataract surgery can (and ideally, should) be performed, it can be costly.

3. You’ll save a lot of money

Treatment for diabetes mellitus includes twice-a-day insulin treatment, insulin syringes, prescription diets, and frequent veterinary trips for blood tests. Also, as diabetic dogs can’t go without their insulin, it may mean hiring house sitters or pet sitters to treat your pet while you are on vacation.

4. You’ll have fewer urinary accidents in the house

One of the biggest signs of uncontrolled diabetes mellitus is excessive drinking, urination and having urinary accidents in the house. Because of hyperglycemia, dogs are also at increased risk for urinary tract infections, wreaking havoc on your carpet. The sooner you can treat your dog with insulin and get diabetes controlled or regulated, the less your dog will drink and urinate, making your dog more comfortable too!

5. You’ll have more peace knowing that your dog is healthy

As a veterinarian and dog owner, I want to make sure my dog is as healthy as possible. You might already be talking with your veterinarian about vaccines each year in a dog that is older than 7 years of age; next, talk to your veterinarian about doing an annual exam and routine blood work too. It’ll pick up on medical problems sooner, so you can rest assured that your dog is going to live a longer, happier, healthier life!

Having a diabetic pet is also a big commitment, as it requires dedicated pet parents who can give twice-a-day injections of insulin. Caring for a diabetic dog does require frequent trips to the veterinarian to regulate blood sugar. That said, dogs can live with diabetes for years with appropriate care and treatment. When in doubt, make sure to monitor your dog carefully for the signs of diabetes, and seek veterinary attention sooner rather than later to help test for this ever-growing problem!

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