How to Train Your Cat to Walk on a Leash

/0 Comments/in , , , /by

 

January is National Walk to Your Pet Month. Usually, that brings to mind images of walking your dog on a sunny day. But, what if you were walking with your cat instead? You may baulk at the suggestion, but it’s true! Cats can be trained to walk on a leash and they can also end up loving it.

First off, you’ll want to break them into the idea of a leash and harness easily. Cats are very independent by nature, so it’s best not to force them into too much too quickly. And always make sure to give them lots of praise and pets during all interactions while training. After all, we know how much cats love being praised!

leash

Equipment needed

 

  • Harness and Leash

Make sure you’re using a harness and not just a collar. If they try to run up the collar could choke them or break off. The harness will protect their neck and give you more control for their safety.

  • Treats

Get a few healthy treats (a great time for a dental chew treat) to reward them in training. After a while start to eliminate the treats as a reward, but it is a great starting incentive.

Easy Steps To Train Your Cat to Walk on Leash:

 

Step 1: Introduction

Introduce your cat to the harness and leash. Show it to them and let them sniff it. Then leave it laying around their space before you try it on them. This will help them get familiar with it before they have to put it on. Once you’re ready to try it out, put it on them while giving them praises. If they’re okay with it from the start then let them wear it around for a while. If they are not having any of it then take it off and try again tomorrow. Don’t push them. After a successful wear, give them a little treat.

Step 2: Indoor Practice

After they are used to the harness, it’s time to try the leash. Put it on and gently lead them around the house. You will know when they are fed up when they refuse to stand or move or when their tail switches or they flatten their ears. Put down treats in a line (think Hansel & Gretel) to get them to move forward. Walk around to their favorite spots for a little while so they can get acclimated to being tethered.

Step 3: Outside Adventure

Once they are used to the leash and harness indoors it is time to venture outside a little bit. Start in the quietest part of the yard and slowly let them explore the area around the door. Each time try to get them into going a little farther on each walk. Hopefully, within a few days or weeks, they’ll be loving their leash and the great outdoors.

 

Tips to Keep in Mind

 

  • Always consider your cat’s temperament. Some cats may take to walking much faster than others. Some can be comfortable within a week or two, some can take close to a month.
  • Expect a few setbacks. It’s possible that your cat will love a walk one day and the next something is different or scares them and they may freak out.
  • Never leave them alone or tethered on the leash.
  • Don’t let them climb trees while walking.

 

It may seem like an impossible task, but it isn’t! Your cat gets all the same benefits of walking as do dogs and ourselves. It’s a great way for them to be stimulated, get exercise and enjoy the sunshine.

Do you ever walk with your cat? Let us know on our Facebook page or in the comments below!

 

Cold Weather Precautions for Pets

/0 Comments/in , /by

 

With winter weather upon us, we need to ensure we are taking care to ensure our pets are properly protected against the cold weather and elements. Many things are simply overlooked by pet owners however there are something’s that are not understood by us humans. Yes…..pets do get cold. They feel the cold and they do suffer from cold environments.

admin-ajaxPlease, take a moment to read some tips for cold weather precautions and how to keep your pet safe and warm this winter season:

  • Caution with the Salt. Many snow laden cities utilize salt in order to melt frozen snow. Please note that this is very irritating to your pet’s paws. So when taking Fido for a walk, please make sure you don’t parade him thru salted areas. If he does get some on his paws, wipe them up when you return home.
  • Keep your pet hydrated. They will still require a lot of water during the winter months. They burn a large amount of energy in an effort to keep warm. Access to water all year is a must. If your pet is outside for a few hours, leave the water but remember to not put the water in a metal bowl as it will cause your pet’s tongue to stick and freeze to that surface.
  • Pets love to be indoors, despite what some humans think. Fido is not at his happiest when he is locked outside, especially when it is freezing out. Yes, dogs love walks and parks and playing but if you’re with them! Don’t leave your pup outside in the cold. Wind-chill can threaten your dog’s life and he can suffer frostbite and hypothermia.
  • Antifreeze is a NO NO! Please pay close attention to any that may be lurking on the ground. It tastes sweet and will lure your pet towards it. Clean it up! It is toxic to ALL animals.
  • Provide your dog with a warm place to sleep. Sounds easy enough, right? Well, some well-intentioned pet owners forget that a tile or linoleum floor or heck, even a carpeted floor is simply not enough sometimes. The floors are extremely cold and are especially troublesome for a senior pet.

These are just a few cold weather precautions to keep your pet safe as the temperature drops. So as you are getting your house, your car and your family ready for the cold weather, stop and think about your pets! And remember, cold weather usually means New Years and fireworks are right around the corner. Here are some Fireworks Safety Tips to keep in mind.

Cold Weather Safety Tips

Tell us – what are you doing this year to keep your pet safe from the cold?

The Best Holiday Gifts for Cats

/0 Comments/in , , /by

 

Getting the perfect gift for the fuzzy feline in your life can be a challenge! These gift ideas are sure to please and keep your kitty content this holiday season.

Toys 

  • For the playful cat, toys can make a great gift. There are many types of toys available, so you can find the perfect one for your cat!
  • Does your cat like to chase things? Check out the traditional feather wand or the automated “Teaser” cat toys. Feeling crafty? Try making your own stick toy by tying a string onto a clump of feathers and glueing this onto a small dowel.
  • Does your cat like catnip? Try making your own catnip toy by filling a sock with catnip then using a rubber band or string to tie it closed.

cats

Furniture

  • Cat trees are always a good gift. Cats love to get up high and check out their home. Cat trees come in many variations. I would recommend shorter cat trees for older cats and taller ones for younger or agiler cats. If your cat likes to scratch check out cat trees with scratching post bases.
  • Cat beds are a great gift for the sleepy cat in your life. Try and pick a soft bed, that is easy to wash and place it in your cat’s favorite spot. Many cats love sleeping in the sun, so place the bed by a window.
  • Scratching posts are great to minimize scratching and keep your cat healthy. Cats scratch to mark their scent and to file their nails down. Scratching posts range from very simple to very fancy. Simple cardboard scratching pads can be found at most pet stores. Some of the fancier scratching posts have twine that can be replaced when it is worn down.

Treats 

  • Cat treats can be a great present for your cat this holiday season. Check out our previous blog posts for cat treat recipes. A slight change in diet can also make a good gift. Try adding a can of wet food or a different type of pet food. Most cats love wet food, so this is a special gift for the holidays.

Cats can be difficult to understand, but choosing a gift for them can be easy. These gifts will help make this holiday season special for your cat! Let us know what presents your cat likes this holiday season on our Facebook page.

Shop local!

What Can My Cat Eat On Thanksgiving?

/0 Comments/in , , /by

 

Thanksgiving is an exciting time of year for pet parents and their pets. They get to meet new people and possibly beg for some tasty turkey. Many pet parents (me included) want to share some of the wonderful food with our kitties, but this is not always a good idea. This blog will include what you can share with your kitty and some yummy treats so that your kitty can participate in the festivities.Thanksgiving

What can you share with your cat? 

Cats can eat a very diverse diet including meat, fish, some fruit and vegetables. However, their diet cannot include processed human food, foods high in sugar or foods with extra salt or seasonings.

1. Green Beans

A few green beans, fed occasionally is actually good for fluffy, but these aren’t the green beans in your green bean casserole. Keep your kitty’s green beans simple by steaming them until soft. Before cooking cut the green beans into small, 1/2 inch chunks.  For a special treat mix in some chunk tuna or wet food. Feed these as a treat or with your cat’s meal for a special Thanksgiving treat.

2. Baked Squash and Carrots 

Again, feed in moderation squash and carrots are good for your kitty. Make sure the squash and carrots are fully cooked before feeding it, as undercooked veggies are indigestible for your cat. Some people like to bake the squash at 350 degrees until soft, but you can also steam them (again until soft). Make sure you do not add any oil or seasoning to these vegetables. The fully cooked squash and carrots can be served mashed up or cut up in small, 1/2 inch chunks.

3. Turkey 

Cats can join in on this aspect of Thanksgiving fun. Make your kitty his or her own special turkey or set some meat aside. Cats cannot handle the seasoning or baste you put on your turkey, so simply bake the turkey in the oven, plain. Bake the turkey until fully cooked, raw turkey can make your kitty sick. Make sure you choose lower fat portions of the turkey and remove any bones before feeding. Cut the turkey up into small chunks or shreds. This can be feed as a treat for a few meals, like on Thanksgiving day. Turkey can be high in calories so feed only a small amount.

 

 

Special Thanksgiving Treats

Want to make your kitty something special for the holiday, try out these treat recipes special for cats.

Tuna Yum Yums

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup of flour
  • 1/4 cup of water
  • 1/2 cup of non-fat milk
  • 1/2 can of tuna
  • 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil or fish oil
  • 1 beaten egg
  • Optional: a teaspoon of catnip, mint, or parsley

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and place parchment paper on a cookie sheet
  2. Mash or cut the tuna into small pieces, mix in the flour and milk
  3. Pour in water and vegetable oil, then mix well
  4. In a separate dish, beat the egg
  5. Mix the beaten egg into the tuna mix
  6. Mix well, until the mix becomes dough-like
  7. Shape the dough into small balls, about the size of blueberries, and place on the baking sheet
  8. Cook the dough for 12 minutes or until golden brown. Stick a toothpick in to check that the treat is fully cooked
  9. Cool for an hour before feeding to your kitty and make sure not to overindulge them

 

Kitty Casserole

Ingredients:

  • 1 can of tuna or salmon
  • 1 teaspoon of honey
  • 1/2 can of your cat’s favorite food
  • 1 teaspoon of dry cat food or treats

Directions:

  1. Combine all of the wet ingredients in a bowl
  2. Pour into a Tupperware or small casserole dish
  3. Top with dry food or treats
  4. Serve a small amount to your kitty

Feed this casserole in moderation, 1-2 tablespoons per day. Store in a closed container, in the refrigerator, for up to a week.

 

While most foods on the Thanksgiving table are off-limits for your cat, these treats and tips can help make the holiday special for your cat. Let us know how your cat likes these treats by commenting on our Facebook page or commenting below!

 

Halloween Safety Tips for Pets Header

Halloween Safety Tips for Pets

/0 Comments/in , , , /by

Halloween Safety Tips for Pets Header

 

You can keep your pet safe this Halloween with our Halloween pet safety tips. It’s the time for ghouls, ghosts, and candy! But not everything is fun for your pets.
 

Make sure your pets have an ID tag

 
Pets can get lost during Halloween. Make sure your pets are wearing an ID tag or have a microchip in case they run off.
 

Create a clam place for your pets to relax

 
The constant ringing of the doorbell can be pretty stressful for both cats and dogs. Most of our pets are highly attuned to and affected by the sound of our doorbell ringing. They can often go bonkers at a single ring. Let alone a series of rings in a short amount of time. Set your pet up in a quiet back room with a radio or TV playing softly to drown out the noise. Noise generators like the ones found on mynoise.net can be soothing. This will help keep them safe and calm during the peak hours of trick or treating.
 
All pets should stay inside during Halloween, but Halloween can be an especially dangerous time for cats. Black cats, in particular, are targets for naughty neighborhood kids. They can be chased, shot at with BB guns, or otherwise messed with by kids looking to get into mischief. In our home, we make sure to lock our cats indoors from late afternoon until the next morning.
 

Be careful where you place lit candles

 
Lit candles add atmosphere but can turn into a hazard. A swinging tail or a startled cat can send a lit candle flying. You don’t want to be calling the fire department on Halloween.
 
Instead, consider battery operated candles. These pose less of a fire hazard and you won’t have to worry about them burning out during the party.
 

Keep chocolate and sweets out of reach

 
Most of us know that chocolate is toxic for dogs. But candy, in general, can cause a lot of gastrointestinal distress to our pets. Dogs don’t exactly seek out candy, they will pretty much eat anything that catches their noses. Cats can also get into candy but are less likely. That’s why it’s best to keep your Halloween candy stash out of your pet’s reach. Don’t forget to check out our post on Halloween Candy Safety for more details.
 
If you pet does get into large amounts of candy, seek veterinary care immediately.
 

Practice decoration and costume safety

 
Decorations can pose threats with wires, ribbons and open flames in pumpkins. Make sure to keep an eye on your pets around any tricky decorations that could harm them. Also, if you’re going to dress up your pet it’s good to be aware of costume dangers. This applies to pet costumes as well! If your pet doesn’t want to dress up, don’t dress them up.
Halloween Pet Safety Tips

Halloween is tons of fun for both children and adults, but it can be pretty confusing and a little scary for our pets. They don’t understand what it is all about. Think about what goes through the heads during Halloween. Why do their family members look so funny? What are all these crazy loud decorations that go “BOO!” and make creepy music when people walk by them? And why do all these strange people keep ringing the doorbell??? It’s no wonder that they need a little help staying safe during this spooky holiday. With these Halloween pet safety tips you and your pet will have a safe, fun time this Halloween.

Halloween Candy Safety For Pets Header

Halloween Candy Safety For Pets

/1 Comment/in , , , /by

Halloween Candy Safety For Pets Header

 

What’s one of the first things to come to mind when you think of Halloween? Chances are, you’re thinking “CANDY!!!”.  Sugary treats are a definite favorite during this spook-tacular season. But there are some Halloween dangers that can also play not-so-sweet tricks on your pet’s health. Be sure to keep Fido and Fluffy away from the following items in your kid’s candy bag:

Bite-sized Hard Candy

Pile of chocolate

Pile of chocolate by Daniela Simona Temneanu from NounProject.com

These sweet treats can pose a major choking hazard for your precious pet. Hard candy becomes slick when mixed with saliva, making it easy to be inhaled into the windpipe. Keep these tempting treats away from Fido and Fluffy!

Candy with Wrappers

When pets get their paws on Halloween candy, they gobble them down, wrapper and all. Plastic and foil wrappers, when ingested, can cause an obstruction in the intestines and irritate the lining of the GI tract. Sometimes they can be passed without any issue, but it’s best to keep all wrapped treats away from your candy craving cat or canine.

Chocolate Covered Raisins

These tasty treats may be a favorite amongst pet parents and their kids, but they combine two potentially deadly ingredients for dogs. When ingested, chocolate can cause vomiting, diarrhea and seizures, while raisins can trigger kidney failure. If your dog gets his paws on this delicious yet dangerous treat, take him to your veterinarian immediately!

Candy Corn and Other High Sugar Candies

Sugar may have you and your kids climbing the walls, but it will only bring your pet down, causing painful and severe gas. What’s worse is that the sugar provides an excellent source of food for bad gut bacteria to dine on. This can pull water into the colon, causing an extra-messy case of diarrhea for Fluffy or Fido.

Sugar-free Candy and Gum

Most sugar-free Halloween candy these days contain a sugar-substitute called Xylitol, also may be labeled as Birch Sugar. While safe for people, Xylitol can be deadly if ingested by your canine companion. It causes a severe drop in blood sugar within minutes after ingestion, making dogs lethargic, unable to walk, and may cause seizure activity. If your dog survives the initial symptoms, often the dog will be left with severe liver damage and potentially fatal liver failure, making this the most dangerous type of Halloween “treat” for dogs.

Pet Poison Helpline - 855-764-7661

Pet Poison Helpline Number: (855) 764-7661 *$65 incident fee applies

Calls to the veterinarians at the Pet Poison Helpline increase by 12 percent during the week of Halloween, making it the call center’s busiest time of year. If you suspect your pet has ingested something poisonous, call your veterinarian or the Helpline (1-(855)-764-7661) sooner rather than later. It is easier, less expensive, and safer for your pet to be treated earlier. When he’s showing severe symptoms of distress or poisoning from Halloween candy treatment can be costly and more risky.

 

Halloween Candy Safety

Where are emergency vet clinics in the Fort Collins Area?

/1 Comment/in , , , /by

 

Unfortunately, accidents can and do happen. And when they do, you have to act fast. That’s why it’s imperative to have a quick go to list of emergency vet clinics. If you think your pet is acting strange or is very ill, they may need immediate attention. Here are a few for seeking immediate medical attention for you pet.

  • Difficulty breathing
  • Profound weakness or collapse
  • Seizures
  • Obvious signs of trauma
  • Protracted vomiting/diarrhea (especially if bloody)
  • Signs of pain or extreme restlessness and vocalization
  • Ingestion of a known toxin
  • Hindquarter paralysis
  • Abnormal urination

Our top choices for emergency vet clinics in the Fort Collins and Loveland area.

Fort Collins Veterinarian Emergency and Rehabilitation – Our favorite for the Fort Collins area

 

Aspen Grove Veterinarian Care

 

The Pet Wellness Clinic

VCA Veterinary Specialists of Colorado 

Four Season Veterinary Specialists  – Our favorite for the Loveland area

Colorado State – Veterinary Teaching Hospital

Always be prepared for an emergency

Being prepared in an emergency can help save your pet’s life. That’s why you need to make sure to always keep them on a leash when you’re outside. If you’re outside after dark use a reflective leash and take a flashlight. Moreover, take a minute to re-evaluate how “pet-proof” is your home. Remove toxic chemicals and plants from areas pets can reach. If they can’t get to them, they can’t ingest them.

Also, never leave them unattended for extended periods of time. Even the most relaxed pet can get into mischief if they are bored. Hire a pet sitter when you’re going out of town or on an extra-long day trip. We’d love to set you up with one of our awesome Wet Noses Pet Sitters to help ensure that your pet is safe. Just give us a call any time you need it!

September: Emergency Preparedness Month – Preparing with Pets

/0 Comments/in , , /by

 

After seeing two extremely powerful hurricanes hit the U.S. and the raging wild fires in Oregon, it makes us all consider what we would do in a natural disaster. And it’s actually a perfect time to think about your plans since September is National Emergency Preparedness Month.

We should always be ready for whatever life throws at us, like hurricanes, droughts, fire, flood, landslides, tornadoes, terrorism, and more. There are a few things we can do that will make any disaster a little easier, especially when there are pets involved. 

Emergency Preparedness for Pets

  • Update and secure collars
  • Update microchips or have microchips implanted
  • Create a list of pet-friendly accommodations if you need to evacuate
  • Keep a recent picture of each pet
  • Make a list of emergency 24hr vets in your area
  • Have emergency food and supplies on hand
  • Have a carrier and leash for each pet
  • Coordinate with neighbors, family, friends and pet sitters in case you get stranded and your pet is home alone aloneEmergency Preparedness

Make an Emergency  Kit

It’s always important to have an emergency preparedness kit at home. Here are a few items you need to make sure to have on hand. If you’re going to be evacuated, you’ll need a 3 day supply of materials.  If you’re staying at home it’s best to plan for 2 weeks.

  • Water: One gallon, per person per day
  • Food: Stock up on at least a 3 day supply of non-perishable, easy to prepare food. Include plenty of pet food and a manual can opener. 
  • Flashlights and electric tea candles
  • First aid kit that includes pet supplies
  • Batteries, including backup batteries or chargers for phones
  • Battery powered or hand crank radio
  • Camping stove/battery powered hot plate to warm up food

There are so many things to worry about during an emergency. If you have some of your basic necessities covered, you’ll have that much more peace of mind. Plan for every member of your family, including your pets. Disasters happen fast and can hit hard. Having even the smallest plan in place will help you know how to navigate if it happens to you.

In case an emergency was to happen while a Wet Noses Pet Sitter was at your home we will do everything to keep your pet safe. We will coordinate with you and keep your pets safe until they can be reunited with you.

Top 5 Places for Dog Grooming in Fort Collins

/1 Comment/in , , /by

 

Now that the weather is warming up, we’ve all been a little more focused on sprucing up for spring and summer. From the time at the gym to hair and nail appointments, it’s definitely the time of year to refresh grooming routines after the cold winter months. That should also be the same for your precious pets as well. It’s time to trim up those winter coats and pretty up those paws.

Need helping picking a dog groomer in Fort Collins? Check out our Top 5 places for grooming:

1.) Michi’s Grooming

2.) Animal House

3.) The Dog Pawlour

4.) Spa 5 paws

5.) Wagz Pet Market

How to Pick the Perfect Groomer:

If you’re new to getting your dog or cat groomed, don’t hesitate to give your local groomer a call. They’ll be happy to answer any questions you have and help put your mind to ease.

Here are some basic tips for making sure you’re picking the right groomer for you:

  • Visit the shop to make an appointment in person
  • Does the staff appear knowledgeable, caring, and gentle?
  • Is the facility well lit and clean?
  • Do the animals have enough room in their cages (they should be able to stand and turn around comfortably)
  • Are dogs and cats caged in separate areas?
  • Does the groomer keep complete pet records (including grooming, medical, vaccination and emergency contact information)?

Ask your friends and neighbors their experiences as well. You can never do too much research when it comes to someone handling your fur-baby. Don’t feel bad about asking questions or for a tour. A great groomer won’t hesitate to show you around and assuage any anxiety you or your pet feels about the process.

Do you have a favorite groomer in Fort Collins? Let us know your recommendations in the comments below or on our Facebook page!

How to Grow Catnip Indoors – Live with Liana!

/in , , /by

 

 

It’s amazing how easy it is to successfully grow catnip of your own, both indoors and out. Have you ever purchased dried catnip at the store? Then you excitedly open it for your cat only to have them sniff and it lick nonchalantly before walking away? Or maybe if you were lucky, they may have rolled in it a little bit and took a nap on it. And you’re sitting there like, “Wait, I thought catnip was so much more exciting than that for cats???”

And the truth is, it really is supposed to be more fun for them. While some cats never really take to it, most love it, especially when it is fresh. Make sure to watch the whole video for our funny story about how Liana’s cat first reacted to the fresh plant. Because that’s just it, the dried catnip at the store isn’t fresh. Plus, it’s super easy to maintain and can grow into a wonderful thick bush.

Here are some quick easy steps to get you and your cat in catnip heaven:

  1. Purchase small live plants at your local pet store. Or if you have a green thumb you can try planting and growing them from seed.
  2. Water, water water! These plants need a lot of water, so make sure to water them at least every other day.
  3. Don’t forget to trim and clip them for optimal growth. Cut stems down near the center for a fuller plant. Also, you can clip a cut stem into two segments to stimulate two new branches for additional growth.

 

Ways to dry your plant:

  • Take two or three branches and tie the bottoms together
  • Find a cool dry place to hang them upside down for 2-3 weeks until dry
  • Or tear off the leaves whole and place into a dehydrator for 24 hours
  • Don’t crush the dried leaves until you are ready to give them to your kitty for maximum freshness

 

Do you have any funny catnip stories? We’d love to hear them! Let us know in the comments below or on our YouTube & Facebook pages!

Learn about our cat visits