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Ten Tips when bringing new kitten home

by Jamie May 9, 2021 No Comments

Cats and kittens are easy to care for and relatively inexpensive to care for. However, once you know the basics of feeding, litter boxes, grooming, general health, and safety, it is easier to care for your new family member. So, here is the top practical advice and things to consider when bringing a new kitten home.

If you are a new cat or kitten owner or are bringing a new kitten home, you may have many queries about caring for your new feline friend. As you may already know, cats can do many things like they often do fun. They are playful, free, loving, curious, intelligent, and entertaining. Because you need information about cat care, your pet is lucky to have a caregiver.

We’ll start with the tip that your cat loves and is the most important in feline care and management.

Here are the Ten best first-time kitten owner tips:

Tip 1: Assist Your Kitten in Feeling Safe

Since your cat can be nervous at first, make your home as inviting as possible. If your cat is anxious and hides from you, that’s perfectly natural. Cats dislike change in general, so it can take some time for her to adjust to all of the different smells and sounds in your home.

You can assist your cat by providing her with her room or space to escape and feel secure. Put a soft bed in there for her to curl up in. Some cats may prefer an enclosed bed to hide when they are stressed. Add a pair of catnip toys and a fuzzy blanket to the mix.

Is catnip good for my kitten?

Tip 2: Pay a visit to the veterinarian

Find a good veterinarian for your pet, make an appointment for a checkup, and make sure his vaccinations are up to date. It is very important to make sure you microchip your new family member as well. The cost of spay , neuter and microchipping is usually included in the cost of adoption at local shelters. It is imperative REGISTER YOUR KITTENS MICROCHIP NUMBER ON THE NATIONAL DATABASE. If your new cat escapes, keep the microchip number and a picture of him on your computer or another safe place.

Tip 3: Feed your cat healthy and balanced food:

Your food choices have an enormous impact on your cat’s overall health, so you’ll want to make sure you’re feeding him or her some nutritious food.

If you know the cat food brand that your cat is eating previously before adopting it, you must give a small amount of the same food to your cat to be maintained / on a regular diet. Then, gradually change the food to a new diet. It requires a minor adjustment and a gradual transition, preventing stomach upset.

Kittens (cats under one year old) should eat a kitten formula because they are still growing and need a high-calorie diet.

If your cat possesses a significant health problem or is overweight, underweight, or senior, it is best to seek help from your veterinarian and let him choose the right food. For example, if your cat needs to drop some weight, it needs to do so slowly for health reasons.

On average, for a healthy cat or kitten, these types of food found in the grocery store or pet store.

Canned food

Most cats love to eat canned food, also known as ‘wet food.’ This type of food provides high water levels and extra hydration when the cat is used to it.

Canned food comes in various textures and tastes, such as chunks, slices, chunks in gravy, patties, or minced pieces. Some cats have specific preferences others will eat anything.

Dry food

Some people prefer to give dry food or wet and dry food mixture to cats. Like canned food, read the ingredients label and find brands in the first few ingredients with meat. Try to avoid by-products, fillers, and artificial flavours.

Only buy a small new bag unless you’re sure your cat likes it.

How much should I feed my cat?

It depends on the weight and activity level of your cat. Either follow the recommended dose given on the food packaging or consult your doctor.

Kittens (up to year) need high caloric diet to match their active nature.

Tip 4: Choose water bowls and food dishes:

Stainless steel dishes and bowls are ideal for food and water. Unlike plastics, they are odourless and easy to clean. Having more than one dish and cup is a good idea, so you always have a clean handkerchief available to clean the bowl and plates.

Food Dishes:

Cat dishes are best for feeding because they are shallow, making it easy for cats to eat food. Use a dish where the rubber ring is present around their base, so the dish is not pushed around the floor when the cat eats.

Cups of water:

Keep the water bowl in a place where your cat can reach at any time. Cats love fresh drinking water, so change the water at least once a day and wash the cup with warm, mild water at least a few times a week.

To encourage more water use, place the water bowl in two places.

Tip 5: Have a litter box

Here are some things to know about litter boxes and accessories:

Litter Box

You will need at least one litter box for each cat. Covered containers can trap odor, and for some cats, it’s not comfortable, so avoid it.

Whatever box you choose, make sure it is large enough. Small boxes are suitable for kittens, but cats over 10 or 11 pounds can not get in a tiny package. Choose an extra-large if needed.

Box scooping

Scope once or twice a day to keep the box clean for your lovely cat. About once a week, change all the litter and wash the container with dish detergent and warm water or use a disposable litter box.

I have been using Kitty Poo disposable litter box delivery for several years now. It is so convenient and recyclable as well ! You can read my review here.

It can be irritating but check for abnormalities in their feces or urine (such as worms, mucus, or blood). Also, note if there is diarrhea, hard stools, or stool quantity more or less than usual. If you notice something abnormal, call your veterinarian and make an appointment.

Tip 6: Brush your cat

Brushing is painless and does not take much time. Most cats enjoy cleaning because it gives them comfort. In addition, regular brushing removes dead hair, dirt and keeps the skin healthy.

How often to brush?

Short or medium-haired breeds should be cleaned once a week. Like Persian or Ragdoll, long-haired hair should be washed two or three times a week.

Brush type

A regular bristle brush works best for most cats. However, if your pet sheds a lot, you can also use a metal bristle brush to remove more hair. If you are in a good pet store and are unsure what type of brush to take, ask the staff to recommend it.

How to prevent mats:

Mats are rough clumps of fur that form if the coat is not cleaned enough. As the weather warms up, the shedding increases, so it is essential to brush to remove dead hair and avoid mats.

Mats can form any cats’ hair size, but they are more familiar with medium to long-haired breeds.

Once they are formed, they are challenging to compete with. You will need a professional groomer or doctor to remove them.

Tip 7: Bathe your cats

Most cats do a great job of keeping themselves clean. Unless they are dirty from going out or getting old and not cleaning themselves properly, two or three baths a year is usually enough.

Here are some tips for taking a bath:

  • Use a mild shampoo designed for cats and avoid taking soap or water anywhere near their eyes or ears.
  • Avoid flea treatment shampoo (unless your doctor recommends it) because many cats have been affected by certain flea-specific shampoos.
  • After bathing, use a towel to dry it thoroughly, then keep it warm somewhere until it dries.
  • Once the coat is completely dry, a good brush will make it fluffy and beautiful.

Tip 8: Keep your cat’s claws trimmed

You will need a small pair of cat scissors to trim your cat’s claws. Trimming is essential if the claws are long, sharp, broken, or flaky. When claws are significant or not trimmed enough, your cat may snatch your clothing or furniture.

  • Trimming claws two times per month is usually enough
  • The front claws of cats typically grow faster than the back
  • Make sure to use sharp scissors. Once they are dull, they tear their claws instead of trimming, which is painful for cats.

Tip 9: Give your cat a place for the nap

Most cats usually sleep a lot during the day, giving themselves a comfortable place to rest. It could be a comfy cat bed or a soft blanket of its own.

Some cats prefer the sun and warm spots to sleep. Others want to hide in a dark and private place. Consider where your pet often sleeps and make a bed in that area.

Tip 10: Give them Treats

Our furry friend love treats us as much as we do. Here are some of their favourites:

Cat treats:

It’s a good idea to have a treats bag around to reward your cat. Buy treats from where you buy food. There are many flavours to choose from: fish, beef, chicken, cheese, tartar control, salmon, and even catnip.

Cat grass:

Many cats like fresh cat grass. It can be found at some pet or health food stores, or you can buy a kit and grow it yourself. It only takes some days to grow, and your pet is happy to enjoy it.

Conclusion

Cats are lovely creatures. They are adorable and playful. But, we all know cats are obligate carnivores. So, their primary diet must be made up of meat. Cooked beef, chicken, turkey, and small amounts of lean deli meats are a great way to give them that. However, raw or spoiled meat could make your cat sick. As a kitty owner, it is your responsibility to keep your cat healthy and fit by providing the best quality food and nutrition when you bring your new cat home. You can do this easily by following our above mentioned practical advice for a kitten.

A monthly box of fun toys, healthy treats, and other goodies for your cat!

selective focus photography of woman wearing purple sweater holding silver tabby cat
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How to know if your cat loves you

by Jamie November 5, 2020 No Comments

This site contains affiliate links to products. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links

There are many subtle ways cats communicate their love and trust in you. Does your furry friend like to sleep near or on you? Most of the time this cat of mine is my shadow. So if your feline is always by your side it is safe to assume he loves you. Does your cat cry for you or chirp? Cats develop a language to “talk” to only humans, they use other body languages to talk to each other. My cat Pizza also winks at me , a lot. It nice to have someone flirt with me, but after some research, I learned that he is really just telling me that he trusts me with his eyes. Cats give off pheromones and rub areas they consider their “territory” So yes, that head bump and leg rubbing is their way of marking you and saying “You are mine”

I have had cats in my life for most of my adult life. A cat definitely has their own way of showing that they love you. By nature cats are territorial but not pack animals. There is a hierarchy among groups of feral cats, but mostly they are known for their independent nature. Cats also each have their own personality. Some are more affectionate than others but there are always telltale signs that your cat does love you.

CatWise : Americans favorite Cat expert answers your Cat behavior Questions

Do cats choose their owners

Given the option, we think so. There have been experiments behaviorists have theorized that the person’s voice, demeanor, or the way the person interacts with the cat is what entices the cat to choose them to be their owner. Cats don’t always choose the human that loves them back, at first. They can be discriminating and picky. We don’t really understand how they decide, but it is clear they have an opinion. Cats can read people and their emotions similar to a dog. Are cats or kittens just really good at reading people? Many feral cats survive just fine without a human. I have also have known families whose cats decided to find a new family and just leave. I have also had friends who were adopted by a neighborhood cat. Never fear though, once you have been chosen as the pick of their litter, you will be loved forever.

In a full household, with other pets and children, sometimes it is surprising who they choose. Years ago when my kids were little we adopted a kitten. My daughter was about 6yo. and a huge animal lover. Little girls love kittens, and this little kitten bonded with her almost immediately. He slept on her bed and would come when she called from just about anywhere in the house or yard. There were four other people at home including two dogs to choose from yet, she undeniably became his person. A little human clearly isn’t the best choice if the kitten was looking for security, food, and shelter, but they formed a tight bond. I guess that could prove cats don’t just “love” or bond with a “caretaker”. They make their choice based on other reasons.

“The scientists found some correlations between human personality and the behaviors of the cats—such as that cats with humans classified as “extroverted” or “conscientious” exhibited more complex patters of behaviors—and concluded that “it seems that an important area of negotiation between the owner and the cat is mutual attention and friendly tactile interactions” and that the patterns in the relationships between the cats and humans resemble other long-term and complex relationships, “such as those between humans.”

–Smithsonian magazine Feb 2011

Signs your cat has bonded with you

Body language can tell you a lot.

  • Greeting you with a high head and tall happy tail
  • Purring when you are around
  • Grooming you. Yes, some cats try to offer a spa treatment cleaning your hair. You are family.
  • Gentle biting or nipping 
  • Are you continually getting a kitty massage?
  • Exposing their underbelly 
  • Chirping or meowing to or at you
  • Vying for your attention when you are doing something else.
cat loves me,
“What are you doing?”

I’m sure there are many more unique ways cat owners know that their cat shows affection. Humans have been sharing their life with cats for at least 9000 years. Yet, we have only recently begun to study a lot of their behaviors cats are historically not good test subjects, which make it hard.

Cats are not motivated to please people the same way as dogs

Ways to show your cat you love HIM

A good place to start is, just to be yourself. Sometimes, it isn’t love at first sight, it takes a while to get to know each other and build trust. Spending quality time with your furry friend is a great place to start. If you are a new parent, just sitting on the floor with your new friend in the same room is a great start. Have a few toys and some catnip-filled toys around.

Is Catnip good for my cat?

Try to not overwhelm them with YOUR love. Let your new cat or kitten come to you. Not all felines are comfortable with lots of affection from you at first. Show them love and head rubs, but pay attention to their body language for clues or when they have had enough.

Talk to your friend and reassure them. It is possible cats choose their human based on the sound of their voice. I have a habit of chatting with my boy, and either cause or effect, Pizza has become a very vocal companion over the years.

Like all relationships, be consistent and communicate. Pick a time for daily playtime together. Share a treat together at the same time. Although cats are fairly independent, they also enjoy your company especially once they feel safe around you and consider you to be a family member. Adopting a small kitten under nine weeks is a good age to encourage bonding with a human. An older cat may take more time to warm up to you, but most cats eventually bond.

Cats do love and bond like other pets

Cats like to hang out with the people they love. It won’t take long to share that bond. Your new cat will love you in no time. Sitting with a cup of tea and a cat snuggled up next to you is very peaceful and comforting.

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Can My Dog And Cats have Vegetables And Fruit?

by Jamie November 2, 2020 No Comments

Who doesn’t love to share snacks with their friends? Yes, even your pets enjoy a refreshing treat. But is it safe for a dog and cats? Can they enjoy vegetables and fruit from time to time? Let’s take a look

The simple answer is yes, both a dog and cats can have vegetables and fruit added to their diet. With the exception of all types of onions, garlic, grapes (raisins), and avocados and cherries (the pit contains traces of cyanide). Make sure to remove any thick skin which can be hard to digest or a choking hazard. Certain seeds can be harmful or poisonous if not removed.

A certain Golden-Doodle who I live with has a sensitive stomach. She has changed the way I think about feeding dogs. She eats high-quality kibble, and some wet food, additionally, she gets high-quality organic chicken breast as well. It was Vet approved and recommended after some scary tummy troubles/weight loss earlier this year. Turns out we can add some more greens and fruit to her bowl if we want…….er if SHE wants…. She gets what she needs mainly from the dry food and the extra protein, they make a balanced diet already.

But I have also learned a lot about other foods are o.k. A healthy variety of human food choices are good to share with your pet too! There are many human foods especially fruits and veggies, that can be given to your pet. I enjoy sharing treats with fuzzy loved ones.

There are hidden benefits for your pets too!

In addition the extra vitamins and anti-inflammatory qualities of some veggies are great for older pets to keep them healthy and mobile. For instance, a little cooked butternut squash added to your pet’s bowl adds as much potassium as a banana and can help relieve diarrhea and constipation.

“Fortunately, there are many whole food options that can ease arthritis pain when fed regularly to your pet.  These include celery, alfalfa, ginger, mango, papaya, blueberries, and kale, among others. “

Stem Cell Vet

As far as Pizza my cat is concerned….he the little quintessential stinker with the paw that swipes. He is not particularly fond of fish, but he has been known to have some lettuce or leftover pasta. Although he much prefers his wet food to dry kibble these days, he is a senior so I indulge him when I can. He is still fairly svelt for a 10-year-old cat with a sophisticated palate.

What Vegetables and Fruits can I share with my dog or cat?

As long as your pet doesn’t show any allergic reactions to foods, feel free to share the following food/treats with them. It is best to try a small amount first to rule out any problems like stomach upset or diarrhea. It is good to know that dogs are omnivores and enjoy a varied diet of both meat and vegetables, while Cats are obligate carnivores and a majority of their diet comes from meat. They can still enjoy a non-meat snack every now and then. Pizza is always magically around when he hears me munching. If I’m eating it, it must be good.

Can Dogs eat nuts ?

Remember up to 15% of your pet’s diet can be made up of fruits and vegetables from these handy lists.

Fruits that are dog and cat friendly

Unlike cats, dogs have developed a sweet tooth over time. An occasional piece of fruit would make an interesting treat to share. It is best to share a peeled seeded piece. Thick skin or seeds of the fruit can cause tummy troubles, and seeds of many fruits can be deadly in large amounts. Fruits offer a long list of vitamins and nutrients that are great for dogs. One a hot summer day a cold bowl or cut up cucumber and watermelon can keep your pooch hydrated and happy. Some dogs even appreciate frozen fruit, while lounging in the shade.

  • Apples
  • Bananas
  • Blueberries
  • Cantaloupe
  • Cranberries
  • Cucumbers
  • Oranges
  • Mango
  • Peaches
  • Pear
  • Pineapple
  • Watermelon (without the rind or seeds)
cat wants treat
https://unsplash.com/photos/7GX5aICb5i4

Vegetables your dog and cats can have and enjoy.

Although almost all of these can be shared raw, a quick blanch in boiling water makes it easier for your dog or cat to consume. Cooking breaks down the cell walls and makes it easier to digest and receive all the nutrients available.

  • Broccoli
  • Brussel Sprouts
  • Butternut squash
  • Carrots
  • Cauliflower
  • Celery
  • Green Beans
  • Lettuce
  • Peas
  • Spinach ( in small amounts)

****Never feed list****

This list is EQUALLY IMPORTANT.. IF NOT MORE IMPORTANT

A seemly harmless fruit like a grape can cause acute sudden kidney failure. Anything in the onion family can cause your dog’s or cats red blood cells to rupture, and can also cause vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and nausea. Yikes! That includes chives, green onions, and leeks as well.

  • Grapes (or Raisins)
  • Avocado
  • Onion
  • Garlic
  • Cherries

Fruit pits are the pits! cherries, peaches have cyanide and can cause issues. Apple seeds are also rich in cyanide as well and need to be avoided.

Overly fibrous vegetables like Asparagus, or beets can cause intestinal distress or blockages, or become a choking hazard. Although they aren’t poisonous, it is better to avoid hard to chew options, especially if your pet is older, with sensitive (or fewer) teeth.

Obviously it is prudent to know what you are giving your pet.

Yin Yang Nutrition for dogs Maximizing Health with Whole Foods, Not Drugs

What is for your pet’s dinner?

Remember treats are fun to share. I personally am a snacker, especially when I am writing. You can bet while at the computer I am also surrounded by the animals of the household. (I think my snacking has made me very popular) But remember 75-85% of a dog or cat diet should be meat-based. They are omnivores. A few treats here and there are good. Vegetables and fruit can provide low calories vitamin-packed hydrating snacks for a dog and cats. A few extra vegetables are a good treat if your pet is a little chonky and needs to slim down. Vegetables can keep your pet pals feeling fuller for longer, just like they do for us, humans. Hopefully, you can add some dog and cats can have vegetables and fruit your pet on your next grocery list and enjoy a little snacking together.

This site contains affiliate links to products. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links.

Photo by Sharon McCutcheon from Pexels
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Cats are smarter than dogs and other myths?

by Jamie October 30, 2020 No Comments

Well, MY cat’s smarter than a dog O.K., maybe I am just a proud pet parent. I live with both here at home. My cat has lived with me for about 10 years, and I have lived with my roommate’s dog for a little over three years. However, after spending the last eight months indoors with the pup on my left and a cat snoozing on my lap, the three of us have gotten a lot closer. Has it taught me anything about who is smarter the cat or the dog? Well, I do know they both the cat and the dog are clearly in charge of this household. As far as who is smarter? Keep reading as the answer might surprise you.

My dog is not my cat: owner perception of pets living in the same household.

Cats have a reputation for being aloof, and unaffectionate. Personally, I think they are just picky about who they love and trust. Who can blame them? Only recently in the last several forty years or fifty years have scientists begun studying domestic-cat/ human interaction.We are still learning every year. They have come a long way from keeping the vermin population under control in castles.

Love is in the Air at Softpaws.com

How smart are cats? Is it A myth?

The dog has been breed for domestication in mind for approx. 30,000 years. Cats have only been domesticated for closer to 9000k years. Dogs have been protectors, workers, soldiers, and family members, cats, on the other hand, have been idolized by civilizations like the Egyptians.

We are still trying to discover how intelligent cats really are but we do know they form tight bonds with their humans, just like their canine friends. I have always said that Pizza cat and I are bonded. He cries when I’m not home in time, and he spends a ridiculous amount of time trying to groom me. Cats even try to speak to us, with chips and meows and other forms of body language. In fact, cats don’t speak to each other verbally, yet they have learned to speak their mind to their humans.

Cats are not motivated to please people in the same way dogs are, so it is harder to test their intelligence. Cats do not make good test subjects however, they can do all the same things as dogs. And many of them even choose to do so, on a good day.

  • Read people’s expressions
  • Learn by observing
  • Intuitive
  • Can follow a finger command
  • Excellent hunters -cats lead a solitary life on their own
  • Some concept of time
  • Long term memory (and tie it to an emotion)

Why do cats appear smarter than dogs?, NOT…

Despite their occasional apparent lack of interest or concern, the cat is a master of procedural memory and shows excellent cognitive ability. When cats seem to be staring at you they probably are! They are excellent observers and learn by watching. My cat is defiantly clever and always remembers where he watches me put his treats. When I had an older cat he was very instrumental at “teaching” the youngster the necessary manners, like using the litter box. (He also taught Pizza to drink from the toilet. Annoying yet extremely clever that Ricky still had that habit after months with me, also clever the kitten followed suit.)

Because cats are excellent hunters, we can conclude they have “object permanence” If they chase prey behind a shelf cats are tenacious and can deduce it is is still there and will wait. A dog can be tricked, by humans, a blanket, and a doorway. Alas, cats just are not good test subjects. When they are done with the testing, they are DONE!

They prefer to live on their terms (maybe there is lesson in that?)

Cats love human socialization more than food.– Time Magazine.

Dogs are Smarter than Cats then ?

“Unlike the brains of dogs, the brains of cats have an amazing surface folding and a structure that is about 90 percent similar to ours. The cerebral cortex of cats is greater and more complex compared to that of dogs. The cerebral cortex is the part of the brain responsible for cognitive information processing. A cat’s cerebral cortex contains about twice as many neurons as that of dogs. Cats have 300 million neurons, whereas dogs have about 160 million. In fact, cats have more nerve cells in the visual areas of their brain, a part of cerebral cortex, than humans and most other mammals.”-

“HOW SMART IS YOUR CAT?” AT PSYCHOLOGY TODAY (FEBRUARY 23, 2013)

However, four years later new studies suggest the opposite!

“And, perhaps most relevant to pet owners, the researchers found that dogs have more neurons than cats, or even hyenas, which have much larger brains than dogs. Hyenas are, in fact, more closely related to cats than dogs. Specifically, dogs have roughly 530 million neurons, while cats have about 250 million, according to the study. Humans, by contrast, have about 16 billion each.”

–Why dogs are smarter than cats 11/30/2017 – Newsweek

Clearly, there is more research to be done to answer this age-old question, Are cats are smarter than dogs?

We do know that dogs have bigger brains, it is undetermined if that equals a higher intelligence though. Scientists suggest over time dogs’ brains grew because they live in a social structure for so long, whereas cats have not. As we continue to domesticate, spoil, and share our lives with cats and dogs, I would imagine they are continually evolving as well, and that complicates things. Dogs still make great companions, where cats do in their own way, it is a different relationship.

Both cats and dogs have an excellent sense of smell yet, Unlike cats, dogs are able to respond to sweetness, thanks to their different genetic structure.

Both cats and dogs have been T.V. starts proving they can both be taught tricks and commands. In either case, personality may play a bigger part than intelligence.

In the End

While almost all pet parents I know like to praise the intelligence of their fur baby, the truth is we just don’t know if a cat or a dog is smarter. Comparing cats to dogs is a lot like comparing apples to oranges. Although they have common attributes, they do think differently. It just isn’t a fair comparison. Between temperament and breed and individuality, it is fair to say both are smart in their own way. Both are nice to spend time with and snuggle with. Fortunately, we as humans are smart enough to keep pets around.

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Are you sad your dog is getting older?

by Jamie October 20, 2020 No Comments

Are you afraid or worried about losing your dog? It is hard to imagine that cute puppy you just brought home, will be a senior in seven to ten short years, but it is true. Although your dog’s age in people years can vary based on breed, they simply age faster than people. To find out how old your dog really is in human years, check out this cool dog calculator here. There are several signs to look for in your dog that will give you a clue to her aging. The fact is we all are getting older yet a lot of time it sneaks up on you. If you start to notice your pup acting differently, it could just be they are getting up there in age.

Although is sad to think about losing your best friend, just because they are showing signs of old age it doesn’t mean the end. As pet parents, we can notice these subtle changes over time and help them to age gracefully. There are many things and small adjustments that can be made to preserve your pet’s quality of life as they get older.

Read on to learn about some tale-tell signs your dog is getting older and what you can do to help relieve some of their new challenges.

Her Eyes

It is pretty common for dogs to show signs of aging in their eyes. Aside from the distinguished gray hairs that tend to grow in around the eyes and muzzle, Have you noticed your old gal bumping into things? or not finding her special stuffed monkey as fast as she used to? Are her eyes slightly milky? It could be the beginning of Nuclear sclerosis. The is cloudiness, hardening, and yellowing of the central region of the lens in the eye called the nucleus. It doesn’t affect vision too much and, there is not much that needs to be done if that is the diagnosis.

This is just part of the natural aging process. Sometimes, though it can be a precursor to cataracts. To the untrained eye, they both look the same. If you notice a change in Fido’s eyes it’s best to have them checked out at the veterinarian office. Nuclear Sclerosis doesn’t need treatment but Cataracts do need to be treated with anti-inflammatory eye drops to prevent more damage. Though unlikely your dog can go completely blind, cataracts cover the eye lens and soon your dog will see more shadows and changes in the light instead of her favorite toy. Remember to have your vet check out your pup’s eyes if you have any concerns.

Hearing WHAT?

Besides eyesight, the sense of hearing can be affected by age. Age-related hearing loss in dogs is caused by degeneration in the ear. It may be difficult to notice at first as hearing loss can also happen gradually. Early warning signs may include your dog not responding to your voice as quickly. Maybe you notice your favorite old canine sleeping through noises where in her youth she would be aroused by the noise. A trip to the vet can confirm a hearing loss, although there is not much that can be done to correct it. Many pets continue to live a happy life even after their hearing is gone, or affected by the aging process. If you do discover your pet has a hearing loss, it can be helpful to be very patient and find new ways to communicate with your furry family member.

It will become important to be able to get your pet’s attention and learn to convey what you are asking him to do. They are still sensitive to vibrations without their hearing. With additional hand signals and directions, you can easily learn new ways to communicate. Even old dogs want to please their pet parents.

Anxiety in Older Dogs

As an older dog, the gradual loss of eyesight or hearing can make your dog prone to anxiety. No one likes aging, and there is really no way to explain to your dog what is going on. It can be frightening to them until they adjust. It is valuable to learn to recognize things your pet will do when they are feeling stressed. Anxiety in pets can take the form of staring off into space, confusion, or shaking. With senses diminishing, your pet may feel a little lost and lose their bearings. Occasionally your buddy will become a little clingy, or overly attached to you. Our pup at home tends to lick her lips, which is another clue that she may be feeling anxious. Like their human counterparts, anxiety is sometimes fueled by anticipation or worry about things that haven’t happened yet. Like being left alone during the day.

It is so important to offer some comfort. Spending some extra time with your elderly dog can go a long way to offer security. Maintaining a routine is always important for your dog, but especially as they age. Consistent meal times and walk times can do wonders to manage their anxiety. It gives them something to look forward to and lets them know what to expect.

If it is really disruptive and Fido isn’t adjusting or gets worse, many have found relief with CBD oil. It does work wonders without getting your dog “high”. It is easy to administer, in oil form, or treats or CBD peanut butter. We enjoy products from Petal and Tails. The cost is competitive to other local sources here in Southern California and the CBD treats are affective to calm an overstimulated pet. ( I can even get Pizza Cat to eat the treats) CBD also acts as an anti-inflammatory which helps relieve other symptoms as well. Yes, CBD is federally legal to ship anywhere in the USA.

Amazing ways CBD can help your pet

Mobility

A sure-fire indication that your dog is getting up there in age is the inability for him to get up there on the bed or couch. It is common for weakness in the hind legs to become noticeable. If you notice your buddy is enjoying daily walks less often or if they are walking a little more stiff than normal, it could be age. Hip pain, muscle pain, the onset of arthritis can all affect mobility. Moving and taking walks help however, you and your friend may need to just take it slower. Take time to smell the roses on outings. You can also learn dog massage to bond with your pup and help with the pain. An orthopedic dog bed or doggie stairs to reach the bed or couch may help as well. Arthritis is a very common ailment. There is medication available to help alleviate pain and inflammation.

Weight Fluctuations as dogs age

Another sign of aging is weight gain. If your pet is not getting as much exercise and his meal size stays the same, it’s likely he might gain a little weight. The extra pound can make matters worse, so it is best to try to maintain a healthy weight. Pet obesity can lead to a lot of problems like high blood pressure, inflammation, heart disease, and joint problems. It is enjoyable to share treats and snacks with your pup, but keep in mind weight adds up. Changing your dog food to seniors and more walks can help combat weight gain.

Aging is inevitable

Annual Vet visits can help with the early detection of issues or diseases. It is easier to treat mild symptoms before they cause a lot of unnecessary stress. Although age can creep up on you, hopefully now you can recognize some of the signs of aging. With love and patience and a few adjustments getting older doesn’t have to scary or difficult for your pet. Even an older dog has moments of joy and bursts of energy, it just doesn’t happen as often and it may require a long nap afterward. But hey, naps are always good Right ?

pet halloween costume
A Pet's lifestyle, Uncategorized

Do you have the best Halloween Costume for your Pet?

by Jamie October 12, 2020 No Comments

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Do you have the Best Halloween Pet Costume figured out yet ?

If you are thinking about dressing your pet up for the holiday, it might be a bit different this year, but that doesn’t mean you still can’t have a little fun with your faithful companion. Even cats sometimes like to get in on the holiday dress-up fun. However, it may require a little more convincing or a few extra treats or attention. But I have seen it done.

Why Dress your Pet? 

Dogs and Cats Halloween Costumes are readily available. It’s a fun tradition that many pet parents enjoy with their pets. 

Halloween is a good excuse to show off your pet’s personality. And perhaps a little bit of yours as well. I have known some pet parents including their dogs into the families Halloween Costume theme. There are a lot of creative people out there. Lets face it is fun to play dress up and pretend even just for one night. There are also practical reasons as well. In cooler weather, a short-haired dog might enjoy writing a sweater to keep warm. A lovely pampered pooch might appreciate some rain boots to protect their feet from rain or cold. (I have known a few pet parents who appreciate their beloved pet not bringing dirt in after a walk in the rain or snow.)

Most of the time, though is just fun to make your pet the star of the show. Pets steal our hearts and we love to share the love with others. Often an outgoing socialized pet enjoys the attention of strutting around showing off a new outfit. However, a shy pet might not enjoy it as much. Pets are very much a part of the family in our eyes, and we are part of their pack in their minds. Why not include them in a little Halloween costume fun? Provided it isnt a source of stress.

Notorious RGB Costume

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What to consider when choosing a pet costume

There are so many fun ideas out there. It is important to remember that at first pets may resist wearing a Halloween Pet Costume. It is not always as fun for them as it is for you. That’s o.k. but, by making it a fun bonding experience , you will have a better chance of changing a pets mind. Here are some things to consider.

  • Make sure it fits comfortably with plenty of room for your pet to sit, jump, stretch and uh.. “do their business” with ease.
  • As cute as little buttons and badges can be on an outfit, they can also be a pet choking hazard. I know for my cat, he goes nuts for string, like yarn, ribbon, bedroom blinds, so I really have to watch him.
  • Keep hats or face coverings that get in your pets face, to a minimum. It can be hard to see, hear or breath with a hat or bonnet on espcailly if they are not accustommed to wearing one. Animals use body language to communicate therefore it is something to consider when picking out a costume. Its important to keep this a pleasant experience for your lil buddy.

“When we think of canine body language we often think of tail wagging, lip curling when growling and a dog putting their hackles up.  It is so, so much more than this and there are a whole host of very subtle signals that your dog may be trying to convey without you even realising it.”

–www.yourdogadvsor.com
Clearly a happy soccer fan, wearing her favorite outfit. Yes,her mouth is relaxed she is calm enough to pose with a ball.

There are also amazingly fun creative DIY Halloween costumes for your pets if you are crafty type person. Check out this adorable cupcake costume for your dog from Lovelyindeed.com. It is simple, cute and looks pretty comfortable for the pup.

Other options ?

If all fails and you and your pet can’t agree on a costume, there are less intrusive options. Accessories like bandanas or hair clips can add a bit of charm to an already charming dog.

Hocus Pocus Pet Bandana

However it is much less noticeable to the animal. Another option Doggie chalk pen. This works best on short haired pets, but it rinses out much faster than the pet dyes on the market.

Chalk paint pens for dogs and kids alike perfect for a colorful pet for a night or two of halloween fun.

Costumes Year Round? Why Not?

Additionally, many people dress their dog or cat up year around. A Halloween Pet Costume isn’t just for fall anymore. It can be a great way to discourage licking a healing area or stitches and it is way more fashionable than a cone. It is a fun way to show support for your favorite sports team or hobbie. Bonding with your pet in different ways combats boredom. As I have learned especially spending all this time at home, is pets are pretty sweet and patient. They seem to enjoy spending time with as as much as we enjoy time with them. So go ahead, share some silly adorable moments with your pet. Face it some dogs are really hams ( or goldfish?) and enjoy the camera.

chimmi goldfish halloween costume

A big thank you to Chimmi and her family for sharing her beautiful pictures.