selective focus photography of a brown and black frog

Do Toads Make Good Pets ?

( a delightful guest post by Toadorama)

I’ve loved frogs and toads since I can remember.  I’ve always had them as pets.  

I firmly believe if you find a healthy, adult toad in the wild.  It should stay there.  Wild-caught adults do not thrive when captured. 

With my 4 toads now, they were all babies no bigger than a quarter, in a situation where they would have been killed.  A lot of babies do not make it to adulthood.

Approximately 8-9 years ago, I rescued Agatha.  She was a tiny California/Western toad.  Very small.  There were predators all around and she wouldn’t have lasted another week where she was.  Frances, Gustavo, and Santiago followed.

In my opinion, toads make incredibly good pets.  They are not high maintenance and they are very easy to care for.

I keep my toads separated from each other.  They each have their own home.  I 

rescued them at different times and it’s not a good idea to put them together. 

They will usually be found alone in the wild, and when you put them together, there is a lot of fighting and stress.  All the toads in my past, as a child, did not live very long when I put them together.  

TOAD CARE

This is how I care for my toads!

HOME  

Each toad should have a minimum 10-gallon tank or similar enclosure.

selective focus photography of a brown and black frog
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

I try to mimic the natural habitat where they were found.  You will need a good substrate to start with.  I prefer Reptisoil, which is peat moss, carbon, sand and soil.  Do not use any kind of bagged soil from garden shops unless it is organic without any chemicals added to it.   Always make sure there is enough substrate so they can bury themselves if they want.

They will also need a good water dish.  You want a water dish that isn’t too deep.  One they can get in and out of easily.  

Hide and fake plants are nice as well.  

Spring water is an absolute must.  Toads drink through their skin. Tap water or distilled water is a big NO.  

Repti-Safe is a good de-chlorinator for tap water and a more economical choice.  I personally use Crystal Geyser Spring water.  

Expect your toad to soak themselves every day.  They dirty their water dish very fast.  I change mine every other day.

HANDLING

Toads do not like to be handled. It doesn’t matter that you raised them from babies. They are not afraid of me at all, but they do not like to be handled! The only time I handle my toads is when I am moving them, one at a time, to their feeding box or if I am refreshing their home. I always use gloves when I handle them. This is because they will absorb everything from your skin. Soaps or lotions will be absorbed in their skin. 

FEEDING

I feed my toads, on the average, twice a week.  Babies, however, need to be fed small amounts daily. 

I feed each toad in a small travel terrarium that is just used for feeding. I do this because I know exactly how much is eaten and there is no chance of them accidentally swallowing substrate.  

Crickets, night crawlers, dubia roaches are excellent food. Wax worms are a good treat.  

In my opinion, mealworms are not a safe/good nutritional choice. Since toads do not chew their food, mealworms have been known to burrow through an animal and unless  you’re willing to crush the mealworm’s heads before feeding them to your toad,  I wouldn’t risk it.

Do not ever feed your toad anything from your backyard! This is how they catch parasites.

VITAMINS

Toads require Calcium, Vitamin D and Vitamin A. These supplements are very 

essential to their health and well-being.  Without the proper vitamins,  they can get “Short Tongue Syndrome” (hypovitaminosis) where they have a very hard time catching their food.  They can also get MBD (metabolic bone disease).  

I use an all-in-one supplement.  Repashy Calcium Plus.  It has calcium, Vitamin D and Vitamin A in it. I add a few shakes to my bag of crickets and that’s it!

That’s really all there is to taking care of them!  In the winter, when it gets really chilly,  I might put a heating pad on the outside of their home for 30 minutes at a time but they don’t really need a specific temperature to thrive.  

MY TOADS

AGATHA:  She’s my oldest toad and very tame.

FRANCES:  She’s my largest toad.  She loves messing up her water dish!

GUSTAVO:  He is the only male I have.  He was always shy but is starting to get more relaxed.  He chirps loud when you touch his back!  

Sidenote:  Male toads will chirp!  Female toads do not make any noise.

SANTIAGO:  We thought she was a “he” and the name kind of stuck!  She is a little clown!  Always trying to get attention.  She loves to look at herself in the mirror on my closet door!  She’s also known as Scalawag and Scooter.  

I also have a large African Bullfrog with teeth who’s almost a pound!  Her name is Hecky!

Follow the toads and Hecky on Instagram at Toadorama

How to Keep My 15-Year-Old Cat Happy and Healthy

As our pets age, they need more care, patience, and comfort. If you’ve got a senior cat at home, here’s what I’ve learned about keeping them happy, healthy, and thriving.

How to Keep My 15-Year-Old Cat Happy and Healthy

My cat is 15 years old. He’s been with me through apartments, breakups, roommates, and a few business ventures that kept me from home. These days, he spends most of his time sleeping in a sunbeam or slowly wandering to his food bowl. Watching him age has been bittersweet—he’s still my buddy, but he’s not the same frisky kitten I brought home years ago.

As our pets grow older, they need more care, patience, and comfort. If you’ve got a senior cat at home, here’s what I’ve learned about keeping them happy, healthy, and thriving.


🩺 Senior Cats Need More Vet Love

As cats age, they hide pain well. What looks like “just slowing down” could be something more.

  • I try to take my boy to the vet twice a year now.
  • Bloodwork is key—it helps catch kidney or thyroid issues early.
  • If your cat suddenly starts drinking more water or losing weight, call the vet.

Don’t wait for a dramatic change. With seniors, even small shifts matter.


🛏️ Make Things Easy and Comfortable

My guy has arthritis. He doesn’t leap like he used to, and sometimes he hesitates before jumping onto the bed.

Here’s how I’ve made things easier for him:

  • A soft orthopedic cat bed in his favorite corner
  • Litter box with low sides for easy access
  • Steps up to his window perch (yes, I spoil him)

Comfort matters more than style these days.


🍽️ Feeding an Older Cat

Senior cats can get finicky. One week they love chicken pâté, the next they won’t touch it. I’ve learned to:

  • Warm up his food a little to release the smell
  • Mix in water to keep him hydrated
  • Switch between a few trusted brands to keep it interesting

I also ask my vet for food recommendations based on his bloodwork. Kidney health is a big deal for aging cats.


💧 Hydration is Everything

Older cats are prone to dehydration, especially if they eat mostly dry food. I choose to free feed kibble, however since he prefers wet food, he likes to save his appetite

Here’s what works for us:

  • A quiet water fountain in the kitchen (he loves it!)
  • Water added to wet food
  • Extra bowls in different rooms

Sometimes I even offer him a little bone broth (no onions, low sodium) as a treat.


🧼 Grooming Help

My cat used to be fastidious. Now he sometimes forgets to groom behind his ears. I step in:

  • Soft brushing sessions while he’s relaxed
  • Wiping his eyes gently if they get goopy
  • Watching for mats or long nails

He purrs through it now. I think he appreciates the help, even if he won’t admit it.


🧠 Mental Stimulation for Senior Cats

He may sleep more, but he still needs stimulation.

  • I rotate toys to keep things novel
  • He has a cozy perch near the window for bird-watching
  • I talk to him often—he knows his name, and he always perks up when I say it

Some days we just sit together. Honestly, I think that’s his favorite game.


❤️ Aging Gracefully, Together

Fifteen years. That’s a long time to share your life with a little soul. Senior cats might not be as spry, but they’re wise, cuddly, and full of love.

The best way to care for them? Stay present. Watch for changes. Make their world soft, warm, and safe.

Most of all, let them know they’re still your best friend.


Do you have an aging cat at home?

I’d love to hear your tips and stories—drop a comment or message me on Instagram @awanderingpet.

Yawning cat png sticker, animal

Why Does My Cat Sneeze After Eating? (And Should I Be Worried?)

Sneezing after eating could show food allergies, food in their nose, respiratory cold or even dental troubles.

Why Does My Cat Sneeze After Eating?

By Jamie | www.awanderingpet.com

If you’ve ever shared a meal with a cat (or, more accurately, watched them eat like royalty while you wait on them), you may have noticed a curious thing: the cat releases a post-dinner sneeze.

At my house, it’s practically tradition. My cat Pizza the wonder cat, king of the —finishes his food, gives me a satisfied look, and then: achoo! Sometimes it’s a cute little sneeze. Sometimes it sounds like he’s launching her whole soul out through her nose.

And because I’m me, I went down the rabbit hole (or litter box?) of research. Here’s what I found:

1. It Might Just Be Food Dust

Dry kibble can create little particles that float up while your cat is eating. Strong-smelling wet food can also trigger a little nasal drama.

2. Allergies Aren’t Just a Human Thing

Cats can be allergic to ingredients in their food—or even to things near their feeding area, like scented candles, cleaning sprays, or pollen from nearby plants.

3. Speed Eating Can Stir Things Up

Some cats inhale their meals. This can lead to sneezing if they’re also pulling in air or crumbs too quickly. A slow-feeder bowl might help if yours eats like it’s a race.

4. Dental Trouble

Dental issues, especially in the upper teeth, can irritate the nasal passages. If sneezing comes with bad breath, drooling, or pawing at the mouth, your vet should take a peek inside.

5. Sometimes, It’s Just… Them

Like people, cats have quirks. Some sneeze after meals. If the sneezing is occasional and accompanied by no other symptoms, your cat is likely fine. A little weird, but fine.

When to Call the Vet

If sneezing is frequent or comes with:

  • Nasal discharge (especially colored or constant)
  • Watery or gunky eyes
  • Loss of appetite
  • Lethargy or hiding

…it’s time for a check-up. You know your cat best—trust your instincts.

Final Thought: Sneeze, Eat, Nap, Repeat

At A Wandering Pet, I like to write about the little moments that make up life with animals. The things that make us laugh, worry, and Google things at 2 am. If your cat sneezes after dinner, you’re not alone. And chances are, it’s nothing to panic about—just one of those small mysteries in the wonderful, weird world of cats.

Got a sneezy kitty or a funny pet story? Drop a comment below or send me a message. I love hearing from fellow animal lovers.

Until then, give your feline friend a chin scratch from me. 💛

older cat

Telltale signs your cat is getting older

As cats age, their behavior can undergo various changes that reflect their maturity and shifting needs. Here are some key behaviors to look out for that can help you understand your aging feline friend better as he gets older:

Affection

One noticeable change is increased affection. Older cats often become cuddlier and seek out human companionship, enjoying those quiet moments together on the couch. This newfound affection may be a way for them to seek comfort and reassurance.

For my older gentlemen, it has manifested itself into a ritual of HUGS! when I get home from work. He needs a good five or ten minutes of solid baby bonding before he will settle down. I am loved and missed. He has always been affectionate, but the hugs are a new habit since my cat is getting older.

Sleeping More frequently.

Another common behavior is a decrease in activity levels. While younger cats may be known for their playful antics, senior cats tend to lounge around more and prefer shorter play sessions. It’s not uncommon for them to choose a cozy spot in the sun over chasing after a feather toy.

You may also notice changes in their sleeping patterns. Older cats tend to sleep more and may have disrupted sleep cycles. They might nap more frequently throughout the day and may awaken at odd hours, exhibiting a more relaxed approach to their daily routine.

Vocalization.

Behavioral changes can also include an increase in vocalization. Some aging cats may meow more frequently or sound different as they communicate their needs or express a desire for attention. This could be their way of letting you know they need something, whether it’s food, comfort, or just companionship.

This is especially true for Pizza, so much so that he was driving me nuts. Those little paws and vocalizations weren’t clear, no matter how often he complained. I finally tried Fluent Pet communication buttons. In my opinion, Cats are just as smart as dogs (if not more, but I am biased. We only have two active buttons, but they’re the most important ones: “Hungry” and “Pets.” Once he learned to use them, both our anxieties lessened. He literally just tells me what he wants, at the touch of a paw.

Grooming change

Lastly, please pay attention to changes in their grooming habits. Senior cats might groom themselves less meticulously, leading to a scruffier appearance. You may need to step in and help with grooming to ensure they stay clean and healthy.

By observing these behavioral changes, you can provide the support your older cat needs, ensuring they continue to thrive in their golden years. Like most pets, he brings me joy, most of the time. Watching him grow older is not something I LIKE to acknowledge, but the signs ARE there. Making him happy for our last chapter together is important. He’s been with me for 15 years! I am hoping for several more happy years.