Tag Archive for: kitten

How To Keep Your Cat Out Of The Christmas Tree

How to Keep Your Cat out of the Christmas Tree Header

How To Keep Your Cat Out Of The Christmas Tree

Keeping your cat out of the Christmas tree can be a challenge. Firstly, why do cats enjoy Christmas trees so much? There are a few reasons.

  • Your cat has never seen a Christmas tree before and the lights, ornaments, or even the tree itself is a new curiosity.
  • It’s a different tree than the one you had previously.
  • Cat’s like to climb and hide, Christmas trees are perfect for this.

Here are a few creative ways to keep your cat out of the Christmas tree this season.

1. Pet Playpen

If you have an adult cat or a cat that can jump high this method won’t work for you. While it’s not the most aesthetically pleasing option it’s great for kittens that can’t jump that high quite yet.

Playpens come in a variety of sizes. The one pictured above is the top rated one on Amazon at the time of writing.

Pet Rex Foldable Metal Pet Exercise Playpen on Amazon @ $38.05

2. Apple Cider Vinegar Pine Cones

This is a method I’ve heard about from friends. Get some pine cones (if you have pine trees in your backyard great!) and spray them lightly with apple cider vinegar. Cats generally dislike the smell of apple cider vinegar. It’s also why they don’t tend to get into the natural gnat traps I occasionally have to put out.

3. Cat Proof the Tree Stand

No matter which tree type you go with, real or artificial, a tree skirt is a great idea to hide the stand or pot. You’ll also want to wrap the base with tin foil. You can also use sand bags or bags of cat litter to help weigh down your artificial tree base in case kitty makes a leaping jump for the tree.

4. Citrus Oil Spray

Making a spray of water and orange, lemongrass, or citronella oil has proven effective at deterring some cats. You can also sprinkle orange peels around the base of your tree just make sure to replace them every day or two so they don’t get moldy and start attracting insects.

5. Avoid Edible Ornaments

Not only are these often not meant for cats to eat they provide a tempting incentive for climbing the tree. Avoiding edible ornaments is one way to make the tree less appealing to your cat.

And some bonus tips:

  • Avoid decorating with delicate, breakable, or sentimental ornaments until you know how you cat reacts to the tree. If your cat doesn’t seem interested in climbing but only batting at lower ornaments, place these up high and out of reach.
  • Pine sap and oils can be harmful to cats. Make sure you cover the pot to avoid your cat drinking the water. You can also cover it with a piece of foil for added security.
  • Avoid tinsel. Tinsel can cause gastrointestinal issues if ingested. This is also why you should avoid toys that use the shine of tinsel to attract cats. If you cat ingests tinsel do not try to remove it yourself. Call your veterinarian and seek emergency medical help.

Let us know if these tips were helpful in keeping your cat out of the Christmas tree this year in the comments.

Indoor Cats Versus Outdoor Cats: The Pros and Cons Header

Indoor Cats Versus Outdoor Cats: The Pros and Cons

Indoor Cats Versus Outdoor Cats: The Pros and Cons Header

Indoor Cats Versus Outdoor Cats: The Pros and Cons

Everybody has heard of indoor cats and outdoor cats but what are the pros and cons of having indoor cats versus outdoor cats. Here in Northern Colorado, there are a lot of people who have cats that are 100% indoors, cats that are outdoors, cats that are indoor/outdoor, and cats that do a little bit of both. This weeks video series entry covers that exact topic and breaks down the differences between indoor and outdoor cats.

 

Outdoor Cats

Outdoor cats tend to have an average lifespan of two to five years which isn’t terribly long. In our area, Fort Collins, we have a lot of predators especially for those who live near the foothills. When you have a predator problem that’s something to keep in mind. Cats are great hunters and can be good at defending themselves but not when up against a coyote or other larger predatory animals.

Indoor and outdoor cats should be using a flea preventative every 30 days; be that topical or oral. This is especially important for outdoor cats who are more likely to be exposed to fleas.

Try to bring your cat indoor at night. When you have an indoor cat this isn’t a problem but for outdoor cats bringing them in at night helps keep them safe. Downside is cats like to hide and wander so it may not always be possible to bring them in at night. If that’s the case you should have an enclosure for them they can access outside to provide shelter and warmth.

If this outside time is the biggest reason why you’re considering an outdoor cat consider building or purchasing a catio (cat-patio) which is a fenced in area in your yard that your cats can be in. Your cats are technically going outside but they are still contained within a safe environment.

Outdoor cats should be spayed and neutered. We always recommend this but especially for outdoor cats. They can get pregnant at a very young age which will also contribute to the pet overpopulation.

Permanent identification is recommended for all pets but especially for pets that will be going outside a lot. Permanent identification includes things like microchips or tattoos (tattoos being done by a licensed veterinarian who is authorized to do that). A breakaway collar is also important to have but this will mean you’ll be having to replace collars a lot more frequently than with an indoor cat.

Outdoor cats tend to have more health problems than indoor cats. Common health problems in outdoor cats are heat stroke and hypothermia, especially if they get stuck in warm or cold weather. Other times, your cat might get stuck in an area such as a neighbors garage and cannot make it home in bad weather. This can lead to bacterial and various other viral infections. If you are planning on having your cat be outdoors, make sure your veterinarian knows this. They will want to recommend more vaccines than for indoor cats due to what they will be potentially exposed to.

Wounds. Cats get into fights with other cats or other animals. These wounds can develop into abscesses and require veterinary treatment. It’s always good to have a pet first-aid kit on hand but deep wounds require proper medical care and may require stitches and antibiotics.

Cats are curious creatures and may ingest toxic substances they otherwise wouldn’t be exposed to indoors such as antifreeze. Mushrooms are also another common toxic substance your cat may ingest.

Summary

  • Outdoor cats have an average lifespan of two to five years.
  • More likely to be exposed to fleas.
  • May not always be able to bring them in at night and keep them safe from predators.
  • If they are not spayed and neutered they may contribute to the pet overpopulation problem we have in the United States.
  • Replace collars and tags more often.
  • More health problems that indoor cats.
  • Outdoor cats are more susceptible to getting wounds and ingesting toxic substances.

Indoor Cats

Cat that are indoors have lifespan averages between ten to fifteen years, but they can live for even longer.

But, indoor cats tend to be more prone to obesity, diabetes, and a sedentary lifestyle because they are contained and don’t have as many natural world stimulants as outdoor cats. This can be replicated by having lots of toys, cat trees, and cat perches. You can also place a bird feeder outside a window so your cats can get that stimulation of watching and hearing birds. As mentioned earlier, catios are also a great way to get your cat outdoor time while being secure.

Less vaccinations are typically required for indoor cats. Vaccinations can get expensive and you can reduce the cost of annual vaccines by keeping your cats indoors as they don’t need as many.

If you opt not to use flea protection on your indoor cat they are less likely to get fleas unless you’re in a high flea area because they won’t be going into flea-infested areas. If you have a strictly indoor cat and cats that are going outdoors, give you indoor cat flea protection. Just in case an outdoor cat were to bring some home.

The biggest reason people have outdoor cats is so that they can get more activity and stimulation and because they feel bad about containing them indoors. This is great but you can replicate a lot of those outdoor activities inside or with a catio. Bringing outdoor activities inside or investing is a catio is a great way to keep your indoor cats active and stimulated while keeping them safe.

Catio not an option? Consider leash training your cat. This works best when your cat is younger but you can teach older cats how to walk on a leash and harness. It takes time and patience but can be done most of the time. Some cats will 100% not take to being on a leash and harnesses.

Summary

  • Indoor cats average lifespan is between ten to fifteen years.
  • Tend to be more prone to health issues. Obesity, diabetes, and a sedentary lifestyle are common. This can be counteracted with stimulation and things like a catio.
  • Less vaccinations required annually.
  • They are less likely to get fleas.
  • You can replicate most outdoor activities and stimulants on the inside.
  • Indoor cats are generally safer. They don’t have to deal with predators, wounds, fights, and illnesses due to overexposure.

Let us know your thoughts on indoor cats versus outdoor cats. Are there any pros or cons we missed? Drop your thoughts in the comments or @WetNosesPetSitting

Should You Leave The Radio/TV On For Your Pets? Header

Should You Leave The Radio/TV On For Your Pets?

Should You Leave The Radio/TV On For Your Pets? Header

Should You Leave The Radio/TV On For Your Pets?

When you’re leaving the house, should you leave the radio/TV on for your pets?

It’s up to you!

While the data is limited, there are studies such as the one conducted in 2002 by animal psychologist Deborah Wells from Queen’s University in Belfast, Northern Ireland 1 2 that indicate it can be beneficial to leave on the radio/TV for your pet but only if it’s playing the right kind of content – most notably classical music. But really, each animal has their own preference and it’s up to you to experiment with what works best for your pet. Some dogs liked heavy metal while others liked the sound of people talking.

What if I don’t have a Radio/TV?

With many of us moving to subscription based streaming you might find yourself without a TV or radio. There are streaming TV stations that are designed to cater to our canine and feline companions but if you have cut the cord there are numerous YouTube channels out there. Keep in mind, any media that runs advertisements can have suddenly loud and jarring sounds that can disturb your pet. One of my cats is currently recovering from a cystotomy so we’ve been enjoying the videos by Paul Dinning on YouTube. Some places like the Monterey Bay Aquarium offer livestreams of their various exhibits. These livestreams tend to have some calming background music but you can search for ones that don’t.

Do you leave the TV on for your pets? What about the radio? Let us know in the comments what your pets favorite thing to listen or watch is.

Top 7 Christmas Gifts For Pet Lovers

Top 7 Christmas Gifts For Pet Lovers Header

Top 7 Christmas Gifts For Pet Lovers

Looking for Christmas gifts for the pet lovers in your life? Here are our top 7 gifts we recommend you give this holiday season.

1. The Big One® Oversized Supersoft Plush Throw

These blankets have been an affordable and adorable staple in my gift-giving trove for years. But any pet themed blanket will do nicely. Sometimes Kohls will have these blankets on sale for $9.99. They wash up well, are a decent size, and are super soft. They rotate patterns year round so if you don’t see one you like make sure to check back.

https://media.kohlsimg.com/is/image/kohls/1944597_Blue_Dog?wid=1200&hei=1200&op_sharpen=1https://media.kohlsimg.com/is/image/kohls/1944597_Cats?wid=600&hei=600&op_sharpen=1

The Big One® Oversized Supersoft Plush Throw on Kohls @ $29.99

2. Cat Mom & Cat Dad Apparel

meow.com has a wide variety of both Cat Mom and Cat Dad apparel to choose from as well as accessories and mystery bundles. Perfect if you want the gift to truly be a surprise.

Spider Black Tie Dye Cat Mom Tee Meow

Spider Black Tie Dye Cat Mom SQ Tee @ $28.99

Dark Heather Vintage Cat Daddy Tee

Dark Heather Vintage Cat Daddy Tee @ $28.99

3. Dog Breed Soy Candle

ScriptedFragrance has a wide selection of hand-poured soy candles decorated with different dog breeds. The listing claims these candles can burn up to 50 hours.

Boxer Dog Breed Soy Candle in Signature Silhouette Glass image 0

Boxer Dog Breed Soy Candle in Signature Silhouette Glass on Etsy @34.00

4. Pet Memorial Gift

Has the pet lover in your life recently lost a beloved pet? Consider getting them a meaningful gift of a pet memorial. I like to use Etsy when looking for pet memorial gifts because of the wide variety of items they have made by various artisans. If you don’t have a photo of the pet handy consider a generic memorial gift such as the ones below.

Willow Tree Angel of Friendship, Sculpted Hand-Painted Figure on Amazon @ $28.95 Cat Version Here.

Willow Tree has a wide selection of different pet memorial figures. If the one above isn’t quite what you’re looking for check out their others.

To My Dog Mama Rainbow Bridge Pet Memorial Gifts Dog image 0

To My Dog Mama, Rainbow Bridge Pet Necklace on Etsy Starting @ $33.96 Cat Version Here.

Rainbow Bridge Paw Prism Crystal Suncatcher Rearview Mirror image 0

Rainbow Bridge Paw Prism Crystal Suncatcher on Etsy @ $24.00

5. Page-A-Day Calendar

I’ve gotten this as a gift before and have bought one every year since. It’s fun to see the cat pictures and read their little bios submitted by people.

365 Cats Page-A-Day Calendar 2022 on Amazon @ $15.99 Dog Version Here.

If you’re reading this in 2022 or beyond, Amazon conveniently provides a link to the newer product new the top of the listing. You can also search for 365 Cats Page-A-Day calendar [YEAR] to get the latest one.

6. Animal Adult Coloring Book

Coloring books aren’t just for kids! They also make great Christmas gifts for the adult pet lovers in your life. In the past few years coloring books have taken off as a great way to relieve stress and get creative. There are hundreds of animal adult coloring books out there. You’re sure to find one that matches your pet lovers personality.

100 Baby Animals: A Coloring Book on Amazon @ $8.99

Color Animals Coloring Book: Perfectly Portable Pages on Amazon @ $4.63

I own the Color Animals Coloring Book and while it is small it’s perfect to bring with you somewhere. Don’t forget to pick them up some colored pencils if you’re not sure if they have any!

7. Primitives By Kathy

Primitives By Kathy has some super cute household gifts with all different themes but we know why you’re here; you need a gift for a pet lover. Check out their Dog is Good collection for tea towels, socks, pouches, coasters, and more. They also have cat themed gifts as well.\

Dish Towel – Less People More Cats

Socks - I Like Big Mutts And I Cannot Lie - One Size Fits Most - Cotton, Nylon, Spandex

Socks – I Like Big Mutts And I Cannot Lie

If you don’t want to order directly from the supplier, Amazon has a much smaller selection but does have some items.

And a bonus…

8. Something for Their Pet

This might seem counterintuitive but there are some people who really don’t want or need anything for the holidays. I’m one of those people! Unless you know I’ve been eyeing something I would be more than happy if you got me something for my cats – assuming it’s something appropriate and safe for them. Most of my close friends who would do this know I don’t do bells or tinsel on cat toys because of the potential choking hazards and that I’m very selective in my treats. If you’re unsure, just ask! I’d also love if a friend asked me what they could get me for my pets.

Do you already own any of these Christmas gifts for pet lovers? Let us know which ones are your favorite or if you plan to purchase any of these this holiday season in the comments below.

How To Protect Your Dog’s Paws on Winter Walks

How To Protect Your Dog’s Paws on Winter Walks Header

How To Protect Your Dog’s Paws on Winter Walks

Protecting your dogs paws on winter walks is important to keep your pet healthy and safe this winter season. But how do you protect their paws? Here are a few tips to protect those paws.

1. Paw Wax

There are many different types of paw wax out there but one I enjoy is Musher’s Secret. It’s also great to use on dry elbows!

Musher’s Secret is a paw wax made from natural food-grade waxes and oils designed to condition and protect your pet’s paws. Yes! This also works on cats. It’s fast=drying, non-allergenic, and non-staining which are huge pluses. You can also use it during the summer to add another layer of protection to your pets paws when out for walks in case you have to cross any hot pavement.

Buy Musher’s Secret on Amazon

2. Dog Boots

Dog boots take some time getting used to but can protect your dogs paws from more than paw wax can. There are numerous types of dog boots out there so make sure to do research before purchasing to determine if they’re a suitable fit for you and your dog.

Polar Trex™ Winter Dog Boots

Buy Polar Trex™ Winter Dog Boots on Ruffwear

Buy Pawz Dog Boots on Amazon

3. Wipe Those Paws…

When you dog comes in from a walk, make sure to wipe their paws off to get rid of any ice melt and other debris that may have gotten in between their toes. You can use a wet paper towel or any dog grooming wipe.

4. Or Try a Portable Paw Washer

You should still wipe your dogs paws when they come inside but if you know you’ll be out for awhile, consider a portable paw washer. Ideal for mud this will also work on some winter debris. This one comes in three sizes. Just make sure to bring a towel with you.

Buy Dexas MudBuster Portable Dog Paw Washer on Amazon

5. Check Surroundings

Besides waxes and boots you should be vigilant when walking your dog. This will help you avoid encountering potential hazards. Some things to note are:

  • Don’t walk in front of stores: Most stores don’t use pet-safe ice melt. Non pet-safe ice melt is toxic to pets.
  • Stick to a known path: This can help you avoid any holes/gaps that may be hidden by snow.
  • Avoid ice: Ice is slippery for both you and your canine. Walking around ice patches you see can prevent a fall.

Were any of these tips helpful? Let us know if we missed anything and how you protect your dogs paws on winter walks in the comments below.

Why Cats Make Wonderful Companions

Why Cats Make Wonderful Companions Header

Why Cats Make Wonderful Companions

Everybody has their reasons why cats make wonderful companions. But what if you’re on the fence about adopting a feline companion? Here are 10 of our reasons why cats make wonderful companions.

1. Cats are independent.

Cats are known for being more independent than dogs. Some people prefer this in a cat, others prefer bullet point number 2.

2. But they also can be cuddle bugs.

Nothing beats a warm cat curled up in your lap or having your cat follow you around. Some cats love to be around people and “participate” in the discussion.

3. They’re great apartment pets.

Cats tend to require less space than dogs, don’t require a yard, multiple walks daily, and don’t have to be let out to go to the bathroom every few hours. This makes them ideal apartment pets. Bonus points if you’re on a higher floor.

4. Lower maintenance than dogs.

Not into going for walks? Cats can be trained to walk on a leash but if that isn’t your thing that’s fine! Cats also don’t have to be professionally groomed as regularly as dogs – though their nails do need trimmed frequently and long haired cats especially need brushed.

5. Cats cost less to care for than dogs.

Toys don’t typically get destroyed around cats meaning they don’t need replaced as often. Having a smaller animal means less monthly expenses on pet food. Cat veterinary bills also tend to be a bit lower than dogs because of their smaller size.

This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t splurge on your cat or get a pet when you cannot afford one in your monthly budget. Cats still need:

  • Quality food
  • Litter
  • Annual veterinary examinations
  • Toys
  • Pet insurance – while optional is still a great thing to have

6. Cats are good for your health.

Purring is actually a way cats heal themselves and you! “Cats purr during both inhalation and exhalation with a consistent pattern and frequency between 25 and 150 Hertz. Various investigators have shown that sound frequencies in this range can improve bone density and promote healing.”[1] Plus they’re fun to watch. If you’re ever in a bad mood go watch some cat videos.

7. They can be a natural pest-control.

Not every cat is a great hunter but when they are they can be a great natural pest-control. Just make sure they’re up to date on their vaccines and dewormed regularly. If you do find your cat bringing you a lot of rodents or other creatures be sure to contact your local pet control.

8. Cats are renowned for keeping themselves clean.

Felines spend an average of 5 hours grooming themselves each day. This helps to keep dirt and tangles out of their fur which is why they require less professional grooming appointments.

9. Cats are quiet.

Need I say more?

10. They bring us joy and entertainment.

Cats are fun to watch. That’s why they’re the ruling class of the internet.

You’re sold! You want to get a cat! But, a cat doesn’t factor into your current lifestyle or budget. If that’s the case considering volunteering at your local shelter or humane society. This can provide you with that feline companionship you want while also not having to stress about full-time care-giving.

These aren’t all the reasons why cats make wonderful companions! Every cat is unique and provides a different cat owner experience. Why do you think they wonderful companions? Tell us in the comments or @WetNosesPetSitting or #WetNosesPetSitting. We’d love to hear your thoughts!

Celebrate National Pumpkin Day Header

Celebrate National Pumpkin Day

Celebrate National Pumpkin Day Header

Celebrate National Pumpkin Day

Looking for creative ways to celebrate National Pumpkin Day? Here are some fun, and healthy, dog treat recipes you can make to celebrate with your pup!

REMEMBER: When buying canned pumpkin, make sure it’s plain pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin pie filling contains spices that your dog shouldn’t have. If you feel more comfortable buying a brand that was made to be consumed by cats and dogs, here are a few brands:

1. Dog-Friendly Pumpkin Pie Bites

Ingredients
16 oz. canned pumpkin (plain pumpkin– do not use pie filling)
½ banana
¾ cup flour
½ cup oatmeal
¼ – ½ cup water
¼ cup plain low-fat yogurt
Cupcake or muffin tin
Cupcake liners

Directions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Mix oatmeal and flour together in a large bowl.
3. Add enough water to get the dough to form a ball. Add water slowly, too much will make it too sticky, not enough and it will crumble
4. Line cupcake tins. Take a chunk of dough and press into bottom of cupcake liner. Dough should go up sides a bit, about a 1/2″
5. Bake crust for 8 mins, until firm and slightly brown.
6. Carefully take crusts out of the tin, cool on the rack. When cool, remove liners.
7. Mix pumpkin, banana and half of the yogurt together
8. Fill each crust with pumpkin banana mixture
9. Freeze until firm. Serve Frozen

Dog-Friendly Pumpkin Pie Bites Recipe Card2. Banana Pumpkin Dog Treats

Ingredients
2 Large Bananas (spotted/brown are best)
3tblsp Xylitol-Free Peanut Butter
3tblsp Coconut Oil

Directions
1. Mix bananas in a stand mixer until they are broken down but not a purée. You can also use a hand mixer or a masher.
2. Slowly combine peanut butter and coconut oil until texture is smooth. A few chunks are ok!
3. Pour into your favorite silicone mold.
4. Freeze for 3-4 hours or until firm.

Banana Pumpkin Dog Treats Recipe Card

3. Cranberry Pumpkin Pie Bites

Ingredients
2c Whole Wheat Flour
1c Rolled Oats
1c Whole Fresh Cranberries (Frozen works, just make sure they’re thawed)
16oz Pumpkin
1½c Chicken, Beef, or Vegetable Stock

Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350℉.
2. Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl. If the mixture is too dry you can add some more stock.
3. Roll into 1-1½in sized balls and place on a lined cookie sheet.
4. Bake for 50 minutes.
5. Let cool and serve!

Cranberry Pumpkin Pie Bites Recipe Card

What’s your favorite pumpkin dog treat recipe? Let us know in the comments below.

Should Your Pet Wear ID? Header

Should Your Pet Wear ID?

Should Your Pet Wear ID? Header

Should Your Pet Wear ID?

You pet should always have some form of permanent identification on them at all times as identification is extremely important in helping you be reunited with your pet. This can be either in the form of a microchip or a tattoo. As of 2021, microchips are by far the more popular of the two. If you plan on going out with your pet or if your pet is know to door-dart, they should have a form of ID that is easily accessible on them at all times. This is most commonly in the form of ID tags but some collars also come embroidered with information. You can get ID tags made at most pet stores or you can order them online on sites like Red Dingo.

 

What information should an ID tag have?

Your pets ID should have at minimum the following information:

  • Their name
  • Your phone number

Optionally you can include:

  • Alternative phone number, ex. a spouse’s phone number
  • Address
  • Medical alert, ex. if your dog needs insulin or is extremely allergic to chicken

If you are placing a collar on a cat, make sure it is a breakaway collar. With a breakaway collar, if they get it caught on a branch or a fence they are able to get unstuck.

Check that chip!

If your pet is microchipped, make sure that the information on the chip is currently up to date. Include secondary contact information when possible. If you don’t have anybody else you can put down you can put down the shelter where you adopted your pet from or consider asking a neighbor if you can put their information down. You should also check any physical tags every few months to make sure that the engraving has not worn away.

How To Keep Your Pets Warm This Winter

How To Keep Your Pets Warm This Winter Header

How To Keep Your Pets Warm This Winter

Pets love to be warm in the winter. Here are some ways to help keep them warm.

1. Heated Bed/Blanket/Pad

I have a heated bed and let me tell you, it’s wonderful in the winter. I can climb into a warm bed and when I wake up I’m nice and toasty. Honestly makes it hard to get out of bed. I also know that my pets love it as well. So much so that I have three heated blankets, two heated pads, and a heated cat bed for them to use year-round if they so desire. They understand that if they lay on any of them when I notice I’ll turn it on for them.

K&H Pet Products Thermo-Kitty Heated Cat Bed 20″ on Amazon @ $92.99

K&H Pet Products Heated Thermo-Kitty Mat Reversible Cat Bed on Amazon, Starting @ $25.35

There are lots of different brands to choose from but most of the ones I own are from K&H. You can find their dog products here.

2. Keep that heated bed off the floor and away from drafts

The floor is cold, especially if it isn’t carpeted and drafts are no fun either. Even if your pet bed isn’t heated, make sure it stays off the floor and away from

3. Or add another blanket

Not only does adding another blanket provide additional comfort it provides warmth. Any blanket will do, it doesn’t have to be pet specific. If you do want a pet specific blanket, Tall Tails makes super soft ones.

4. Sweaters

Not all pets like sweaters but if yours does, great! Sweaters are a cute way to add an extra layer of warmth to your pet especially when they’re outside. They make sweaters for all sizes of dogs so you’re sure to find one on the market that fits. Go check out the ones on Amazon, Canada Pooch, or Chilly Dog Sweaters.

5. Don’t shave down to the skin

Cats and dogs are built to withstand some cold temperatures. Some breeds were even designed for it like Huskies. Don’t shave your pet down to their skin during winter as this will remove the warm, protective layer fur provides against the cold.

6. Wipe off paws when your pets come back inside

You know what it’s like to have the snow get into your boot and soak your sock. Imagine if you weren’t able to take off your boots and socks? Whenever your pet comes in from the snow, make sure to wipe their paws off to remove and ice and snow. If you’ve just come in from a walk, this is always a great idea in case they have gotten any ice melt on their paws.

7. If it’s too cold for you it’s probably too cold for your pets

Even if your dog enjoys being out in the snow or is stubborn to come in, if temperatures drop too low your pet can freeze. Make sure you keep track of how long your dog has been outside and keep an eye on them to notice if they start becoming disoriented. Always let them back inside when they want to be let back inside. If you know your dog doesn’t like snow, keep trips outside to a minimum.

New to Northern Colorado and not used to snow? Read up on our cold weather precautions for pets.

Foods To Keep Your Pets Away From This Thanksgiving Header

Foods To Keep Your Pets Away From This Thanksgiving

Foods To Keep Your Pets Away From This Thanksgiving Header

Foods To Keep Your Pets Away From This Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time of abundance but should your pet get a plate as well? We’ve put together a list of foods to keep your pets away from this Thanksgiving to save you a Thanksgiving trip to the emergency vet.

Stuffing

Stuffing often contains onions and garlic which are toxic to pets. If your pet gets into a teeny, tiny amount of stuffing that’s okay but you shouldn’t be giving them a plateful.

Ham & Pork Products

These products tend to be very fatty which is hard on their digestive tracks.

Poultry & Bones

You want to keep any cooked bones away from pets, especially chicken bones. Chicken bones can splinter and are harder to digest which can lead to tearing of the esophagus, intestine, or stomach as well as blockages that require veterinary care.

Mashed Potatoes

Potatoes by themselves aren’t bad, it’s the things we add to mashed potatoes that make them unhealthy. Butter, dairy products, green onions, pepper, can give your pet quite a stomach ache. If you’re looking for a great made-for-humans mashed potato recipe, this is one of my favorites from Taste of Lizzy T.

Grapes & Raisins

While less common at Thanksgiving tables, grapes and raisins may be found in things – like stuffing. Or they may be served in a bowl of nuts as a snack. Grapes and raisins are extremely toxic to cats and dogs and can cause kidney failure.

Nuts

On of the foods to keep your pets away from this Thanksgiving is nuts. Most nuts are extremely high in fat which can cause digestive issues.

Chocolate

Chocolate is one of the most common things pet parents are aware their their furbabies shouldn’t have. But remember, the darker the chocolate the more toxic it is due to the higher cocoa content.

Bread Dough & Yeast

Bread dough and yeast should be avoided due to the alcohol content produced by the yeast, especially in uncooked dough. Uncooked dough is also not safe due to the yeast being active and continuing to rise. Dough can expand well over three times the size it starts out at if conditions are right. It would be like you swallowing a loaf of bread whole!

Gravy

Gravy has a lot of toxic ingredients (garlic and onions) in addition to the high fat content. This makes it harder for your pet to digest and gives them tummy troubles.

Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pet This Thanksgiving Infographic

Want to make your pet a Thanksgiving plate still?

Including your pet in the festivities can be fun but we want to make sure our pets are safe. Here is a list of traditional Thanksgiving foods (with some tweaks) so your pet can get their own plate.

  • Canned, plain pumpkin – not pumpkin pie filling;
  • Sweet potato dog chews – you can either make these yourself or purchase them from your local pet store;
  • Turkey or Pork wet pet food – wet food comes in a variety of flavors. Consider picking up one that is turkey or pork;
  • Carob treats – carob is the pet-safe version of chocolate. You can find a variety of carob treats at your local pet store