Tag Archive for: kitten

Sweet Potato Dog Chews Header

Sweet Potato Dog Chews

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Sweet Potato Dog Chews HeaderSweet Potato Dog Chews

Want to make you dog a fun sweet potato chew for Thanksgiving? Try out these one-ingredient treats.

Ingredients

2 Sweet Potatoes

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 250℉
  2. Line two baking trays with parchment paper.
  3. Slice the sweet potatoes no thinner than ¼in thick.
  4. Arrange the sweet potato slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 2½ – 3 hours, making sure to flip halfway. You want your chews to be shrunken and dried out. It’s okay if some pieces have a different texture than others.
  5. Let cool and store in an air-tight container.

You can also make these in an air fryer with a bit of chicken broth.

Sweet Potato Dog Chews Recipe

Air-Fried Sweet Potato Dog Chews

Ingredients

2 Sweet Potatoes
2c Low or No Sodium Chicken Broth

Directions

  1. Slice the sweet potatoes no thinner than ¼in thick.
  2. Place sweet potato slices into a container and pour over the chicken broth. Let marinate for 3 hours or overnight. Flip periodically to make sure they get evenly coated.
  3. Place sweet potato slices onto your air fryer tray in a single layer.
  4. Bake at 400℉ for 3 minutes. Reduce heat to 300℉ for 5 minutes. You may need to adjust cooking times based on how thick your sweet potato slices are.
  5. Let cool and store in an air-tight container.

Air-Fried Sweet Potato Dog Chews Recipe

What about a dehydrator?

Have a dehydrator? Place your sweet potato slices on your dehydrator for 7 – 8 hours, or until dry.

On a roll with making chews? Check out these jerky treats for cats and dogs.

Top 7 Christmas Gifts For Cats

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Top 7 Christmas Gifts For Cats Header

Top 7 Christmas Gifts For Cats

Looking for a Christmas gift for a cat? We have 7 gifts you need to buy to fill up your cats stocking.

1. Yeowww!!!! Tide Candy Cane

I’m a huge fan of Yeowww!!!! toys. They’re a bit pricey but they are durable and can withstand the numerous bite marks, bunny-kicks, and cat slobber. Worth picking up any of their toys, not just their Christmas toys.

Yeowww!!!!! – 100% Organic Catnip CAT Toy – Tide Candy Cane – Made in USA  On Amazon @ $14.50

2. Advent Calendar

Most pet stores, large box stores included, don’t list their annual advent calendars online unless they have a surplus of them. That means you’ll have to start checking stores around early November if you want to snag one of these hot ticket items. Last year I purchased the Merry and Bright Collection from PetSmart. As with human advent calendars, these came with 25 different toys – some hard, soft, and tinsel toys (those were thrown away). Providing my cats with a new fun toy each day leading up until Christmas.

Advent Calendars For Cats 2020 | POPSUGAR Pets

Merry and Bright Collection from PetSmart

Purina Fancy Feast also did a food advent calendar which is ideal for a pet owner already feeding Fancy Feast. I found these at PetSmart and Target. It does appear they had an online exclusive offering last year that included a small 2020 ornament.

 

Fancy Feast Feastivites Advent Calendar For Cats 2020 | POPSUGAR Pets

Purina Fancy Feast Advent Calendar

3. Double Decker Holiday Present Tower Cat Scratcher House – XL – Wondershop™

Each year, Target puts out new seasonal cardboard cat scratchers. They always have a few online exclusives so make sure to check online if you don’t see the one you want in store. These are fairly sturdy and are easy to assemble – I do recommend having some extra tape on hand. Currently I still have last years Christmas theater, even if it has a few chunks taken out of it.

Double Decker Holiday Present Tower Cat Scratcher House - XL - Wondershop™ - image 2 of 9

Double Decker Holiday Present Tower Cat Scratcher House – XL – Wondershop™ on Target @ $34.99

4. CatWine

This isn’t the same wine you buy off the shelf. Made with filtered water, organic catnip, and organic salmon oil this wine is 100% cat safe.

https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1382/2223/products/7-20PetWinery0524.jpg?v=1594737655

Purrgundy on PetWinery.com @ $9.99

Also check out their DIY ice cream bar for both cats and dogs.

5. Personalized Letter Cat Toy

I love Etsy because of all the fun things you can find on it, handmade by local artisans. These letter toys are sure be a favorite as they’re catnip infused.

Letter Personalized Cat Toy Letter to Santa Cat Toy Catnip Toy image 0

Letter Personalized Cat Toy on Etsy @ $10.00

If you don’t like the letter, the seller offers a variety of personalized cat toys for multiple holidays.

6. Christmas Lights Cat Toy

Does kitty like to get into the tree? Why not give them their own string of lights! This string is free from electrical components so they can play until their heart is content.

Christmas Lights Cat Toy Organic Catnip Holiday Cat Toy image 2

Christmas Lights Cat Toy on Etsy, Starting @ $14.00

7. Kitty Coal

For the “naughty” kitty on the list why not stuff their stocking with coal?

Coal Cat Toys Naughty Kitty's Christmas Coal Cat Toy image 0

Okay, okay this isn’t real coal but rather a cute catnip toy shaped like a piece of coal.

Coal Cat Toys on Etsy @ $20.00

Now that you stocked up on Christmas gifts for your cat, you probably don’t want to have to go and buy new toys for a bit. Here’s how you can keep your pets toys looking like new.

Top 5 Cat Trees of 2021 Header

Top 5 Cat Trees of 2021

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Top 5 Cat Trees of 2021 Header

Top 5 Cat Trees of 2021

It’s no shock that I love cats and want to spoil my cats. This year I wanted to purchase a new cat tree to replace their old cat tree.

Currently they have this one from 2019

Minus the hammock because they never used it. Swapped the two pillars because they never got on the top one. Nor have they ever gotten inside that little cubby. I’ve put sisal rope on it a few times to help it look less worn but it was time to say goodbye. I also had a lot more space now so I could get them more cat trees.

This list is in no particular order.

1. Moonlight Cat Climbing Frame

Moonlight Cat Climbing Frame

WOW! This tree was not only adorable but very sturdy. I wanted something that was cute, functional, and would last and this checks all the boxes. After I ordered it they added two new styles that I wish I could have gotten instead. I mean how cute is this?! The biggest downside at the time of writing this is you are going to be waiting awhile for the cat tree (6-10 weeks). The positive is they’re about 50% if you preorder. Unless you need a cat tree today this might be a great deal for you.

This tree has 6 different styles to choose from so you can pick one that suits you and your cats tastes the best. It also comes in a blue variant.

Moonlight Cat Climbing Frame on Happy and Polly, starting @ $74.99

2. Wonderland Cat Climbing Tree

Wonderland Cat Climbing Tree

Just like the Moonlight Cat Climbing Frame, this one stood out to me for its looks. I have a plant aesthetic in my office and wanted a cat tree that matched. At the time of writing this little fella isn’t on preorder and can be ordered direct but you will be paying full price. I always opt for the largest size of cat tree since I have the space but this one comes in 4 sizes (S-XL) to fit any space. It can also hold up to 25lbs!

Wonderland Cat Climbing Tree on Happy and Polly, starting @ $84.99

3. Vesper High Base

52045 - Vesper High Base – Walnut

This solid cat tree is perfect for daily use while also looking stunning. This is a great cat tree for an open concept area where you’re looking for a more neutral color and design. It’s super easy to clean unlike a traditional carpeted cat tree. This has removable memory foam pads that can be washed separately. They also sell replacement parts which was a big selling point in case parts get damaged after months of use or if there is a stubborn stain you can’t get out.

A few cat cafes I have been to have Vesper furniture in their cat rooms. If it can survive a cat room it can survive your living room!

Vesper High Base on Catit @ $149.99

4. 60″ Henrietta Cat Tree

Green/Brown 60" Henrietta Cat Tree

Tired of your cats eating your plants? Want to replace them with fake ones? Consider adding this cat tree to your cart. This cat tree looks like a decorative plant but also serves as a more natural cat tree. Each step is carpeted to provide extra cushion as your cat relaxes between the leaves.

Green not your aesthetic? This tree comes in 4 colors: fall (orange), green (in picture), plum (red & orange), and summer (more red than orange).

I didn’t purchase this on Wayfair but that’s what came up on my Google search and is what I will include below. If you want a different color than green you’ll have to look elsewhere as it looks like Wayfair is out of stock of the remaining styles at the time of writing.

60″ Henrietta Cat Tree on Wayfair @ $117.64

5. Cat Bunker – Cat Tree

Cat Bunker Cat Tree Cat Hammock Cat Shelves Cat Shelf Cat image 1

If you have a large, empty space on your wall this might be the perfect “cat tree” for you. While not a traditional cat tree, this wall mounted cat furniture provides all the same benefits that a normal cat tree provides without being on the floor. If the one above isn’t your thing, thankfully there are loads of other businesses that offer similar concepts but in a wide variety of styles.

You can even mix and match different styles to give your kitty an even bigger area to explore. My personal favorite is this little rope bridge.

As with the Vesper cat tree, I often see cat trees of this style (not this exact one necessarily) in cat cafes and they usually have a few cats on them. I figured if it was a hit there maybe my cats would also enjoy one.

The biggest thing to look out for is making sure your wall studs are the correct distance as these need securely attached. Drywall will give-way shortly after if that’s the only way they are secured.

Cat Bunker – Cat Tree on Esty @ $348.00

Bonus…my dream cat tree

6. Enchanted Forest Kitty Sanctuary

http://www.hollywoodkittyco.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/e/n/enchanted_forest_1.jpg

Ok I admit it. I don’t own this nor have I ever seen one in person. But we can all have goals right? I’d love to be able to have the space and money to be able to get one of these decked out enchanted forest sanctuaries. These cat trees will have you waiting a least a year before you get yours and start at $899.00. One like the one in the image will cost you around $7000!

Thankfully if you like the look but don’t want to fork over $7000, Hollywood Kitty offers other cat trees that are more affordable. Such as this enchanted tree stump condo, that’ll still cost you back at least $429.00 and 6 months.

Enchanted Forest Kitty Sanctuary on Hollywood Kitty, starting @ $899.00

Now you know my house is really the cats and I just happen to live here and pay the bills. The one question I get asked is:

Do you cats actually use all of these cat trees?

Yes! I don’t have enough cats for one cat to be on each cat tree (that’s a problem I want to fix in the future) but they do rotate depending on the time of day and who is in the room. Usually in the evening they’ll find me. If my one cat is laying on my bed my other might opt to sleep on the cat tree. The one sits by a window that gets sun in the morning and that’s always a hot spot to snag. The wall mounted by far gets the least amount of use.

If you’re unsure if a cat tree is right for you check out our blog that talks about their benefits and how to pick the correct one.

What cat tree do you own? Is it one of the above? Let us know in the comments and share pictures if you own an Enchanted Forest Kitty Sanctuary!

What is Iron Poisoning Header

What is Iron Poisoning?

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What is Iron Poisoning Header

What is Iron Poisoning?

Iron is important for the function of both cats and dogs but when they are exposed to too much iron it can be fatal. The most common source of iron poisoning (iron toxicosis) is ingesting iron oxygen absorbers but iron poisoning can come from a variety of sources:

  • Fertilizer
  • Multivitamins
  • Dietary Mineral Supplements
  • Hand Warmers
  • Heating Pads
  • Iron Oxygen Absorbers

Iron poisoning occurs when your pet has ingested too much iron that has not been oxygenated. Unless you know the exact amount that has been consumed you should seek veterinary care to determine how much elemental iron versus the total iron was ingested.

Iron poisoning can be fatal.

With any poison, it’s important to seek veterinary care as soon as you become aware that accidental ingestion has occurred even if you’re unsure if the amount was enough to be toxic. When you pet has iron toxicosis they will go through four stages. The sooner you get them in the better your pets chance of survival.

  1. Stage 1 occurs usually within the first 6 hours. This includes vomiting, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal issues.
  2. Stage 2 occurs between 6 – 24 hours post exposure. This is where your pet may appear fine and you may no longer feel the need to take them to the vet. After all, we all gets diarrhea every now and then. You still should take your pet to the vet at this stage if you know they have ingested iron or a substance containing large amounts of iron.
  3. Stage 3 occurs between 12 – 96 hours. This is where your pet may begin to experience tremors, bloody diarrhea, and elevated heart rate. They may begin to have seizures, experience organ damage, shock, and possibly death. The longer you wait the more likely your pet is to die.
  4. Stage 4 occurs up to 6 weeks later following treatment. Gastrointestinal issues, such as intestinal strictures and blockages can occur. These issues can appear even when your pet is treated in stage 1.

Symptoms of Iron Poisoning

  • Lethargy
  • Abdominal Pain
  • Shock
  • Elevated Heart Rate
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Bloody Diarrhea
  • Tremors
  • Panting

What to do if you suspect your pet has iron poisoning.

Seek emergency veterinary care immediately if you suspect your pet has iron poisoning or if you have seen them getting into something that contains iron. Most pets can be successfully treated for iron poisoning if treated before your pet shows symptoms. If your pet is showing symptoms, it is within the first 12 hours and you seek treatment, your pet still had a good chance to recover.

Prevention is crucial.

  • Elevate multivitamins and dietary supplements out of reach of pets;
  • Keep products that contain iron oxygen absorbers out of reach of pets (most commonly in dried, freeze-dried, or jerky foods/treats);
  • Fertilizer should be kept in the garage or shed where you pet cannot get to them;
  • When you are done with a hand warmer it should be disposed of properly. If your pet gets into the trash place it in the bin outside or in a locked bin that is harder for your pet to open
Dangers of Lilies to Cats Header

Dangers of Lilies to Cats

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Dangers of Lilies to Cats HeaderDangers of Lilies to Cats

If you’re a new cat owner you may not be aware of the dangers of lilies to cats. Many lilies are extremely poisonous to cats and can cause death in less than 24 hours. All parts of the lily are toxic to cats including the water in the vase. Lily ingestion can result in severe kidney failure and lead to death if left untreated.

Light arum lilies flower plant indoor

Light arum lilies flower plant indoor by Scopio from NounProject.com

Common sources of poisoning.

Easter lilies are the most common. Tiger, Day, Asiatic, and other Lilium and Hemerocallis (Daylilies) species are all extremely poisonous to cats. Anything that is in the family of lilies should be avoided even if they are not as deadly. If you’re not sure if your lily is safe it’s better to remove it than keep it.

Cats do not have to eat the plant for it to be fatal.

Cats do not have to ingest petals or leaves for the lily to be fatal. Rubbing up against the plant can get pollen on their fur, ears, eyes, nose, or paws. As cats clean themselves frequently, lily poisoning is more often caused by ingestion of pollen rather than the petal or leaves itself. Even the water lilies sit in can be fatal to cats if they drink it.

Why is the lily so toxic to cats?

We don’t actually know what makes lilies so toxic to cats. [1] This means there is no blood test to confirm if your cat has ingested the lily toxin before starting dialysis.

Symptoms of lily poisoning.

It does not take much for a cat to ingest a lethal amount of the toxin. A single lick of any of these plants can be fatal. Symptoms appear within 6-12 hours of exposure and include: lethargy, vomiting, loss of appetite, dehydration, tremors, or seizures.

What to do if you suspect your cat has come in contact with a lily.

If you suspect your can has come in contact with a lily seek emergency veterinary care immediately. Do not wait to get an appointment with your normal vet. After 18 hours post-exposure your cats chances of survival decrease drastically. Inform them that you suspect your cat to have ingested lily so they can prepare while you’re on your way. Do not delay in seeking treatment. Pet poison hotlines will tell you to seek veterinary care.

File:Easter Lily -- Lilium longiflorum.jpg

Jim Evans, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Prevention in key.

  • Keep lilies away from your home.
  • Do not plant lilies outside – stray and feral cats are just as susceptible to lily poisoning as indoor cats and are unlikely to get treatment in time.
  • Do not touch lilies when you are out as you may carry trace particles of pollen back into your home.
  • Remove any lilies currently in your home and dispose of them properly.
    • You can rehome lilies but make sure the person you’re rehoming them to does not have any cats and does not come in contact with cats. Make sure to ask before giving away your plant.
  • Inform friends and family about lily poisoning and to not send any flower bouquets that contain lilies.

Not sure if your plant is actually a lily?

That’s ok! You can use a plant identification app to ID your plant. If your app is confused or you get multiple results, it’s best to get rid of the plant to be safe.

Dangers of Lilies to Cats Infographic

Did you learn something new about lilies and cats? Let us know in the comments your thoughts.

 

Parasites and Pets: Do you need to be worried? Header

Parasites and Pets: Do you need to be worried?

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Parasites and Pets: Do you need to be worried? Header

Parasites and Pets: Do you need to be worried?

Parasites. No pet owner ever wants to have to deal with them. But did you know nearly a third of all household pets currently have some form of parasite? Yikes! I found this out because I saw one of my cats eating a cricket he had caught and it made me wonder: Do crickets carry parasites that can infect cats? The answer to that question is yes. But is it just crickets that can give my cat a parasite? Sadly, no. Today we’re going to look into the types of parasites your pet can get.

Now, this list isn’t all inclusive. There are many parasites out there but these are some of the more common ones you’ll find in the United States.

Roundworm

Roundworms are by far the most common type of parasitic worm you’ll find in your pets. Nearly all dogs will have roundworm at some point in their lives, usually as puppies.

Hookworms

Hookworms are very similar to roundworms in that they are also an intestinal parasitic worm. These parasites are dangerous because they can cause fatal blood loss.

Tapeworms

You’ve heard of this one! Tapeworms are long, flat worms that live in the intestines. There are a variety of species of tapeworm that can infect your dog:

  • Dipylidium caninum
  • Taenia
  • Echinococcus (uncommon in the United States)

Tapeworms usually don’t make your dog sick and do not cause weight loss but it can happen. If you suspect your dog has tapeworm make sure to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian.

Heartworms

Heartworms are nasty things. Primarily in dogs, heartworm is transmitted via infected mosquitoes. These worms don’t only live in the heart but also the large blood vessels in the lungs. Thankfully monthly preventative chews and other preventative options exist. You can read more about heartworm on our post dedicated to heartworm.

Stomach Worms

Also called Physaloptera worms, these can infect your pet when they ingest an infected cricket or cockroach. Your pet can also become infected by eating another animal, such as a mouse, that has eaten the infected insect.

Some other types of parasites are:

  • Cheyletiellosis (Walking Dandruff – Cats only)
  • Coccidia
  • Ear Mites
  • Fleas
  • Giardia
  • Mange
  • Scabies (Dogs only)
  • Ticks
  • Tocoplasmosis (Cats only)
  • Whipworms

Prevention

Prevention is key. Even indoor animals should be dewormed once a season (every 3 months) unless otherwise instructed by a veterinarian. For some worms, like heartworm, a monthly preventative is recommended for most animals. If you bring a new animal home that has not been dewormed you should schedule a vet appointment ASAP and keep the pet separate from others until they are cleared as some parasites can be transmitted.

Are parasites fatal?

Parasites can be fatal if left untreated. Parasites like fleas can cause severe anemia due to blood loss. You should reach out to your veterinarian if you suspect your pet has a parasite, especially an internal parasite. If you find a stray dog or cat that has a severe case of fleas or mange you should seek veterinary care as soon as possible to minimize blood loss and scarring.

Did you learn something new about parasites and pets? Let us know in the comments.

 

Why do cats groom themselves? Header

Why Do Cats Groom Themselves?

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Why do cats groom themselves? Header

Why Do Cats Groom Themselves?

If you’re a cat owner you have noticed that your cat grooms themselves, a lot. While excessive grooming can be a sign of other health issues, the average cat grooms themselves five hours a day. But have you ever wondered if they groom themselves in a specific pattern or why they groom themselves? I had those exact question and decided to look into it further. The answer to the first is

Yes!

Cats groom themselves in a specific pattern. While the pattern isn’t universal amongst all cats if you sit and watch your cat do a full groom session you’ll notice they start in the same spot and go in the same order. Just how humans usually start with washing hair, then face, arms, torso, legs, and finally feet. My one cat starts with his back left side and tail, then his face, chest, and ends with his right side and tail.

But wait, you mentioned a full groom? Is there another type?

Also yes! If you’ve ever gotten really sweaty and just needs a quick rinse then you know how cats feel when they do a quick wash. Quick washes are usually focused on one spot and reserved for when an unfamiliar scent is on them or if their fur gets messed up. An example of a quick groom would be my cat cleaning his tail after he decided to place it on top of my pizza last week. Not only did he enjoy the taste of the pizza of what I couldn’t get out with a paper towel but it helped him to keep his tail nice and clean.

Which leads into…

Why do cats groom themselves?

Cats groom themselves for a variety of reasons but largely it’s to help spread sebum, the natural oils produced, around as well as to keep debris and tangles out of their fur. This doesn’t mean you don’t have to give them a helping hand. Even the most diligent cat can still get tangles that need cut or brushed out. This is especially true in long haired cats. They also may get feces or other hard to get out debris around their sanitary area which may require human intervention.

If you notice your cat excessively grooming – technically called psychogenic alopecia, that could be the sign of a few things:

  • Anxiety
  • Allergies – pollen, fleas, food, etc.
  • Ear mites
  • Pain
  • Stress or boredom

You should consult a veterinarian if you notice your cat excessively grooming to rule out any potential health problems. If all health problems are ruled out you can try maintaining a routine to reduce stress, provide more mental and physical stimulation, and try calming medication (with a prescription) or over-the-counter calming products like pheromones.

Why do cats groom themselves infographic?

Next time you’re bored, go watch your cat groom themselves! Let us know your cats specific grooming pattern @WetNosesPetSitting. It’s fascinating to see all the variations our cats have created.

Benefits of Cat Trees: Do they really work? Header

Benefits of Cat Trees: Do they really work?

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Benefits of Cat Trees: Do they really work? Header

Benefits of Cat Trees: Do they really work?

If you have a cat you probably own a cat tree but you might have asked yourself: what are the benefits of a cat tree? Besides being a piece of furniture you can decorate with, cat trees do provide function for our feline companions and are a worthwhile investment if you have the space. Cat trees come in all sizes, colors, styles, and budgets so you’re sure to find one that you like. I recently purchased this one and as you can see – it’s adorable! Not only will it be great for my cats but it’ll also look great in my office.

They help with scratching

Cat trees provide a place for your cat to scratch that you approve of – instead of your sofa. Cats love to scratch. It’s a natural thing they do. Encouraging your cat to scratch in an appropriate place can help lower both of your stress levels.

Cats like high places

My one cat likes to perch on top of the fridge. Why? Because it’s the highest place he can get to to survey his territory. It makes him feel safe that nothing is going to sneak up on him without him noticing.

Provide a safe space

A cat tree can provide a safe haven for a timid cat or a place to get away from another cat that’s bothering them. It can also help to keep the peace as it provides a point of high ground. If you also have guests over, a cat tree can provide some sanctuary. Just make sure your guests know not to disturb your cat when they are on their cat tree.

Which cat tree is right for me?

That depends! Ask yourself:

  • How much space do I have?
  • Where do I plan on putting the cat tree? In a corner? Next to a window? Middle of the room?
  • Does my cat like to scratch, lay on things, or lay in things?
  • Will my cat even use a cat tree?

If you cat is older, they may not enjoy a cat tree – especially if they have other places to lay that are more comfortable. Such as a heated bed. You should ask yourself if you cat will even use a cat tree before investing in one. Consider getting a smaller cat tree to start before upgrading to a big one if that is something you would like to do.

You’ve decided that YES! A cat tree is right for you and your cat. How do you pick the right one? You need to keep a few things in mind when purchasing a cat tree:

Is it safe for my cats?

You want a cat tree that had a solid base that your cat can’t tip over. Usually the listing will say that it has a weighted base. This is especially important for tall cat trees. As your cat climbs they’ll rock it which can increase the likely hood of a non-weighted cat tree tipping over.

Materials are important.

Cats like to lick things. Making sure that your cat tree doesn’t contain toxic or harmful materials is important. Avoid these products in all pet products:

  • Phthalates – Commonly found in Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) toys
  • Bisphenol A (BPA) – Commonly found in plastic
  • Lead – Found in cheaper painted products
  • Formaldehyde – Rarely, if ever, in cat trees but is still used as a preservative
  • Chromium – More common in cheap, imported toys.
  • Cadmium – More common in cheap, imported toys
  • Bromine – Can be found in foam beds as a flame retardant

While not harmful, carpeted cat trees can lead to your cat getting their claw stuck. Which can be distressing and painful if they cannot get it unstuck themselves.

Durability

Nobody wants to have to purchase a new cat tree every 3 months. Wood and sisal cat trees are generally the most durable cat trees on the market. You can always purchase sisal rope from sites like Amazon and re-sisal your cat trees when the rope starts to fray. (You’ll need more than you think!) Additionally, you can cover patches of material that have been ripped off with sisal to keep your cat tree looking great. You don’t need to spend thousands on a cat tree for it to be durable but you may want to spend that extra $50 or $100 for something that is going to last you a few years.

What does your cat like?

My cats dislike hammocks. They won’t use them and I always end up removing the removable ones. They also aren’t a fan of the cubbies the cat trees provide. When you are looking at cat trees consider what your cat likes. You don’t want to buy a cat tree that has 4 hammocks if your cat doesn’t like them.

What is important to you?

Aesthetic? Ease of assembly? Easy to clean? These are things your cat could care less about but things that may matter to you. You don’t want an cat tree that doesn’t match anything, takes 4 hours to put together, and is ruined as soon as your cat throws up on it. Believe me, that easy to clean thing is important. While some of these things might not be easy to identify from just looking at the product you can check reviews before purchasing to see what other consumers are saying.

Picking the right cat tree infographic

There you have it! You have all the tools needed to pick out the perfect cat tree. But do they work? Also YES! It might take some time for your cat to get used to their new furniture but over time they should adjust to it and start to lay on it and enjoy. If your cat doesn’t have an interest in the cat tree you can try:

Which cat tree(s) do you own? Drop some pictures @WetNosesPetSitting. We’d love to see your kitties chilling on their towers.

Want to splurge on your cats even more? Here are 5 cat products every cat needs in their life.

Top 5 Places for Dog Grooming in Boulder

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Top 5 Places for Dog Grooming in Boulder Header

 

Live in Boulder and need dog grooming? Whether your dog has short or long hair, grooming is very important to keep your dog healthy and happy. In Boulder, Colorado, we have a lot of options for dog groomers, but be sure to check out these options first!

1.) Peak to Peak Grooming

  • Mobile in-home grooming for dogs and cats
  • Boulder, Colorado
  • (303) 442-0269

2.) Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming

3.) The Hydrant

4.) The Peaceful Puppy

5.) Pampered Pooch Grooming

How to Pick the Perfect Dog Groomer:

Cavalier spaniel being bathed

Cavalier spaniel being bathed by Anna Fotyma from NounProject.com

If you’re new to getting your dog or cat groomed, don’t hesitate to give your local groomer a call and ask a few questions.

 

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 about 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 place in Boulder for dog grooming?? Let us know your recommendations in the comments below or on our Facebook page!

Lyme Disease In Dogs: The Facts & What To Do About Header

Lyme Disease In Dogs: The Facts & What To Do About

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Lyme Disease In Dogs: The Facts & What To Do About Header
Lyme Disease In Dogs: The Facts & What To Do About

Lyme disease is something you may have heard about before but what exactly is it? Today we explore what Lyme disease is, what animals can get Lyme disease, how it’s transmitted, and more.

First up,

What is Lyme disease?

Lyme disease is a bacterial spread by ticks that involves a skin rash and joint pain. Specifically it is the “bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and rarely, Borrelia mayonii” [Source].

Can only dogs get Lyme disease?

No. Cats, horses, deer, mice, chipmunks, opossums, squirrels, and raccoons can also get Lyme disease.

You should apply a vet-approved flea and tick prevention method to help prevent Lyme disease and discuss vaccination against Lyme disease with your veterinarian.

How are animals infected?

The bacteria is passed through the bite of an infected tick. In most cases, the tick needs to be attached for 24-48 hours before the bacteria can infect the animal. This means, whenever you come back from a walk you should make sure you and your pet do not have any ticks attached to yourselves. You can learn how to remove a tick on the CDC website. There also are tools designed to remove ticks from dogs and cats.

How does Lyme disease affect my dog?

Lameness, fever, or possible bacterial infection in the kidneys or heart can take as long as 5 months to appear. Issues tend to be focused around the elbows and joints. Lyme disease cannot be transferred from dog to dog or dog to human.

What do I do if I suspect my dog is infected?

Some of the common symptoms you need to look out for are:

  • Fever;
  • Generalized stiffness, discomfort, or pain;
  • Lameness (can be shifting, intermittent, and recurring);
  • Loss of appetite;
  • Reduced energy;
  • Swelling of joints

If you have been in tall, grassy areas that may not be treated for ticks and notice these symptoms seek veterinary care.

Can humans contract Lyme disease?

Yes, humans can become infected with Lyme disease. Lyme disease cannot be contracted from your dog or cat that is infected. You can however be infected by a carrier tick that was attached to your pet. If you believe you have Lyme disease call your physician. Lyme disease is diagnosed based on a variety of factors – one of which can be laboratory testing.

Lyme Disease Infographic

Lyme disease isn’t the only disease or illness our pets can get. Make sure you’re aware of how to prevent rabies and heartworm.