Teaching Your Cat to Wear a Harness 101

Caption: Keep your cat safer when outside by teaching it to wear a harness

Cats are often thought of as homebodies. They seem to enjoy lazing around, napping, keeping you company as you work or simply going about your day. However, every animal requires some physical activity in order to stay healthy, and this is true of cats as well. Even if you have managed to make your home really cat-friendly, cats also have a natural curiosity that cannot be completely sated by only exploring their immediate surroundings. If you want to help your cat explore further without compromising its safety, there are some precautions you will want to take. A big part of that will be wearing a harness. The easy steps that follow make up what we call teaching your cat to wear a harness 101. This will help you offer more freedom to your pet without jeopardizing its health.

The reasons for harness training your cat

As mentioned above, cats are curious and adventurous creatures. Certain breeds of cats are very smart and need constant stimuli to thrive. They like to explore. However, many people have very negative opinions of free-roaming cats. Because they are known to do things like dig or chase after birds on their property, many consider them pests. Throughout the US, free-roaming outdoor cats are often shot, stolen, or poisoned for these reasons. This is probably the main reason why it is a good idea to train your cat to walk on a leash.

Even if you are lucky enough to be living in a pet-friendly neighborhood where no mean neighbor will even think about poisoning your cat, the great outdoors can still be fraught with danger. Letting your cat go outside without supervision leaves it more exposed to various dangers. It can get hit by a car or harmed by other animals. Even more importantly, a free-roaming cat is vulnerable to a myriad of diseases. Many of these are hard to detect or test for, but your cat can even pass them on to other animals in your household. Learning how to train a cat to walk on a leash and harness is of utmost importance for its health and safety.

How to harness train your cat

Get a harness

The first is the obvious step – purchase a harness. Before trying to do anything more, simply put it on your cat for a couple of days to let it get used to the feel of the harness. In many cases, your pet won’t be too enthusiastic about the new addition – quite the opposite. However, there are things you can do to comfort your cat during the adjustment period. One of the ways of harness training your cat is to stroke it while the harness is on or give it treats. You can also put it on before it plays with a toy or enjoys a meal. Whatever it is you have to do, the aim is to get your pet to feel comfortable wearing the harness.

When choosing a harness, ensure it has good chest coverage. Avoid attaching the leash straight to the collar as this can be very uncomfortable for your cat. Some cats are even able to wiggle out of it, making them a flight risk. The leash should be light and gentle, though it will still take some time for your cat to adjust to it.

Venture outside

Once your cat has adjusted to the feel of the harness, attach the leash to it and venture outside. Before taking to the streets, though, you should find a quiet outside area, possibly one that is enclosed or secluded from the street in one way or another. There shouldn’t be any loud noises from traffic or anything else that would scare your pet. Your backyard or garden would be perfect for this step. You could even do it on a porch. Now, the key ingredient in teaching your cat to wear a harness is patience. What you should do once you’re outside is let your cat take its time when it comes to exploring the environment. You can start by sitting down and letting your cat sit on your lap. Slowly, you will notice it beginning to wander around.

Broaden the perimeter

If your cat seemed comfortable roaming around your garden on a leash, you can then try going further. Try to find a place that is not too loud or with too much foot traffic to let your cat explore. While your cat roams around, always be on the lookout for animals that might attack it. Bear in mind that walking a cat will be quite different from walking a dog. Cats are much more prone to really exploring something that catches their attention. So, walking your cat might involve a lot of standing around as it smells something or stares at it. Again, knowing how to train a cat to walk on a leash and harness will require a lot of patience.

Safety

Before teaching your cat to wear a harness, make sure it has received all of its medications and shots. Microchipping your cat might be a good idea if you plan on walking it. No matter how safe you are being, it could happen that your cat just wanders off without you. You should also be aware that cats are much more difficult to turn away from the object of their attention than dogs. You shouldn’t pull hard on the leash in an effort to change the direction your cat is taking. This will only make it react negatively. However, if you believe its safety is at stake, just hold tightly on the leash without giving in and your cat will give up eventually. All in all, being caring and patient is at the root of teaching your cat to wear a harness 101.

Click on the pictures to see where it takes you and the links in the article.

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

Best ways to transport cats long-distance

Cats are not fond of moving, that is a simple fact. Quite often, they tend to react by being irritable, scared, and even aggressive after relocation. The last thing you want is to regret taking this step in the first place. So, instead of just putting your cat in a car/on a plane and expecting that everything's going to be fine, you should make a thorough plan of your relocation with your pet. The first thing on your list is researching the best ways to transport cats long-distance.

Your pet's health is what matters the most

A visit to your cat's veterinarian is a good idea even if you are taking him on a holiday with you, let alone if you are moving long-distance with your feline. Make sure that your cat's health record and vaccinations are up to date and have your cat's health condition checked. Use this appointment to discuss some potential issues regarding your pet with the health professional. For instance, you can find out what their opinion about microchipping is because it can be rather useful in case your cat gets lost during the relocation. Also, you can ask your vet to recommend a colleague in your future hometown.

Your vet can also advise you on which type of transport they think would be the most suitable for your pet and what equipment to use for that purpose. Also, they will tell you whether sedating your pet for the trip is a good idea and how your cat can get a passport. After you solve all your dilemmas about your cat, you will be able to move with ease across the US, or even across the world.

The equipment - what to pick?

Your cat will need a leash and cat harness if you are taking him on a long-distance trip. At the airport, you will have to take your cat out of the carrier before it goes through an X-ray screening procedure and that's when he will have to be on a leash. In the car, letting your cat ramble around can be extremely unsafe for both of you. So, the leash and a harness are the first things you should buy and get your pet accustomed to. But, that's not all.

A carrier or a crate?

If you will be transporting your cat by plane, you will have to get a carrier. But before going to the store, you should check which model the airline company allows - soft or hard-sided ones. The dimensions of the carrier are crucial here too since you will have to put it underneath the seat of the person sitting in front of you. Some airlines are even exclusive about the brand they prefer.

Crates are bigger than carriers, but you can only use them if you are transporting your cat in a car. The most practical are those with more than one opening. Both carriers and crates should have enough room for your cat to turn around and stretch. Don't forget that you will have to fit in a litter box too.

Long-distance move - car vs. plane

Let's be honest - your cat will probably not enjoy any of the two types of transportation, but that's why you are there to make this process less stressful for your pet. Whatever you choose, remember not to feed your cat three to four hours before the trip to avoid motion sickness, but at the same time give your cat plenty of water to drink. That is an important step in preparation for a move.

Is a car the best way to transport cats long-distance?

If you don't feel comfortable about your cat being transported by plane, you will have to take a road trip with him. But, don't worry, this can be fun! As long as you choose the right equipment and respect the daily routines your pet has. Sure, the ride will take longer, but at least your best friend won't be traumatized once you arrive at your new home.

Don't even think about an all-night ride. They are neither safe for you nor pleasant for your cat. When planning a move, look for a hotel/motel where you can stop and rest for the night or two while moving long-distance. Once you find the one you would like to book, double-check whether they welcome cats since "pet-friendly" usually refers to dogs, and you wouldn't like to be unpleasantly surprised amid your trip.

Many cats are rather anxious about riding in a car. However, you can train them by taking short rides for several days before the long trip. Take their favorite toy with you as well. Here's the most important safety tip: your cat should be leashed or harnessed during the entire trip! You shouldn't be distracted while driving and your cat will be safe whenever you open the door or a window.

Or, should you opt for a plane?

Many vets will advise you to avoid transporting cats on a plane. But, if that's the only option you have, you should at least make sure that he is with you through the entire trip. That means transporting your cat in a cabin. Before you book the ticket, you should contact the airline company and inform them that you'll be traveling with a feline. Most companies are fine with that, but there is only a certain number of pets allowed on board at the same time, so you should book your ticket early. Also, consult the airline about the type of carrier you should have. Some companies allow soft-sided, while some will only let you use the hard-sided carriers.

Putting your cat in the cargo hold should be your last option. Unfortunately, many pets get stressed out or even injured while being taken on a trip this way. The cargo areas are rarely airconditioned which can be a problem for any creature traveling in them. Poor ventilation is also an issue.

Whenever you are traveling with your cat, you should make sure that he has a collar with your contact info on it. This is extremely important if you choose to transport cats long-distance on a plane.

Once you arrive at the destination

Don't expect your cat to love your new home right away. When you arrive, you should cat-proof your home before letting the cat out of the crate or carrier. Have a treat with you to reward your pet and to help them adjust to a new home more easily.

We hope we have helped you decide what the best ways to transport cats long-distance are. Enjoy your new home with your old friend, you deserve it!

Click on the pictures to see where it takes you and the links in the article.

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

Key Advantages Of Using CBD Oil Cat Treats

Cannabidiol or CBD is now widely used by humans to help them manage body pains, anxiety, stress, and sleep issues. CBD is one of the most prominent cannabinoids in Cannabis sativa, but unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), it isn’t psychoactive. This is why it’s relatively safe to use in most situations that even your pets can use it.

CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) to maintain homeostasis (internal balance). Apparently, your pets also have an ECS, making them receptive to CBD’s benefits. As long as you give the vet-approved dosage, CBD is safe for cats.

How Can CBD Treats Help Your Cat?

The ECS interacts with cannabinoids in a way that enhances the body’s overall function. At its core, the ECS is capable of producing its own cannabinoids, but there are instances when it produces much less than the body needs. In such situations, CBD helps because it stimulates the ECS to produce what it’s lacking.

Because humans have had good experiences with CBD, manufacturers saw that pets may also benefit from it. Now, you can get various CBD products that can help your cat live a more fulfilling life.

If you’re interested in purchasing cannabis oil treats for cats, listed below are six reasons why it’s worth adding to your cat’s daily routine:

1. Pain Relief

Pain is felt once the vanilloid receptors in your cat’s brain are activated. CBD serves as an excellent solution because it blocks the substances that could activate these receptors.

When these receptors remain inactive, they won’t be able to send pain signals to the rest of the body. Thus, your cat will have an easier time managing their body pains.

If your cat is dealing with anything that involves pain, CBD treats can help reduce their suffering. Once the pain subsides, they’ll find it easier to relax and go about their day as usual.

1. Stress Relief

Cats can get stressed out as much as humans do. One of the ways that stress manifests in cats is through unusual or destructive behaviors, such as hiding, whining, obsessive licking, or refusing to eat. This is common when they’re dealing with separation anxieties and phobias.

For instance, they may feel stressed when moving into a new home. Aside from doing all the possible things that can help them adjust to their new environment, you can also give them CBD treats to help them calm down.

1. Digestion And Appetite Improvement

There may be instances when your cat just doesn’t feel like eating. While their pickiness may go away on its own, sometimes it may happen too often that it can lead to malnutrition. If you want to stimulate their appetite and smoothen their digestive processes, CBD can help.

1. Skin And Coat Improvement

In humans, CBD has been found useful in managing dry skin and acne. Meanwhile, using it on cats can also improve their skin and coat’s conditions.

Aside from feeding your cat with CBD treats, it’s also recommended to apply CBD oil directly to their coat. You can ask your veterinarian for recommended oil mixtures.

With consistent use, CBD oil can make your cat’s coat shinier, smoother, and stronger. Additionally, if your cat is dealing with allergies or similar skin issues, CBD oil can provide relief for their discomforts.

1. Reduction Of Seizures

Seizures result from sudden disturbances in the brain’s electrical activity. CBD can help minimize seizures by reducing the amount of electrical disturbances in your cat’s brain.

While CBD can’t eliminate the primary cause of seizures, it can at least minimize the frequency in which it occurs. Unlike medications that might have unwanted side effects, CBD is a safer alternative that can help solve other health issues as well.

1. Overall Wellness

As mentioned earlier, CBD works with the ECS to ensure that your cat’s systems are working at their best. In the same way that humans tend to feel better due to CBD-aided homeostasis, cats will also achieve overall wellness when their internal mechanisms are working in synergy.

That’s because CBD prevents their systems from going haywire. This leads to a significant improvement in their health inside and out, which significantly improves their quality of life.

CBD Treats Can Make Your Cat Feel Better In All Sorts Of Ways

One of the best ways to show your cat that you love them is to give them treats that can help them feel better overall. Giving them CBD cat treats is an excellent way to do just that.

CBD cat treats are especially formulated to accommodate the nutritional needs of cats. Best of all, most products are made from natural ingredients, so you won’t have to worry about dangerous side effects.

Click on the pictures to see where it takes you and the links in the article.

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

Making your apartment cat friendly

Making your apartment cat-friendly is one of the best things that you can do for your cat. That is the only place they get to enjoy.

Cats seem like perfect apartment pets. Most cats rarely or never leave the house, which means that your home is their living space 24 hours a day. At first glance, you might think that having a cat inside is super easy and that it doesn’t take a lot of work. However, that cannot be further from the truth. Cats are very sensitive and emotional animals. They need certain things within their home to make them feel comfortable and taken care of. So, if you have a four-legged friend in your home, you must ask yourself how cat-friendly your apartment is. It is never a bad time to reassess your living space and show your cat some much-needed love, by making your apartment cat-friendly.

Making your apartment cat-friendly will take some creativity and effort

Tips for making your home into a more cat-loving space are important for all cat owners. Of course, your affection and attention are something that your cats need the most. Nevertheless, one of the ways to show them your love is to share your space with them. This doesn’t mean just letting your kitty roam wild around your apartment, but by making certain accommodations that will make your cat comfortable in your home. Especially if you recently moved, you will need to pay extra attention to your furball. Making your apartment cat-friendly is the best possible way of helping your cat adjust to your new home. Here is how you can be the best possible cat parent and share your beloved home with your best friend.

Your cat's behavior will be your best indicator in which changes you should make within your living space.

Create more space for your cat

Nobody expects you to make an extra room for your cat. Of course, you will work with whatever space you have within your apartment. But adding verticality specifically for your cat is a great way to create additional and useful space for your pet. Having your cat use shelves that aren’t meant for that use might not be the best idea. Your cat might get injured and your things may get damaged. But you can find great solutions in the form of cat furniture. There are many cat trees, cat shelves, and other cat toys that can be a great addition to your home. This way, you will allow your cat to be more adventurous and confident. Also, you will provide much-needed space for exercise, since most cats never leave your home.

Give your kitty a cozy chill place 

We all have a little room or a corner within our home that we consider our personal sanctuary and our go-to spot. Well, the same goes for your cat. Don’t think that the expectations are any less. So, if you are serious about making your apartment cat-friendly, make sure you have a nice little place reserved only for your feline. That way, you will give your cat a special place where it can feel secure and comfortable. It is like giving your kid their own room. Everybody needs their own space. This is particularly important if your cat is shy and you just moved to a new home. Moving with pets can be simple if you take similar steps and make your pet at ease with their new surroundings.

Give your cat their own corner. This will be their favorite place where they feel secure and happy.

Don’t forget the view 

Very often, you will see your cat chilling on your window. It is hard to know what they are thinking. But one thing is for sure: it looks like something fun. Thus, don’t deprive your cat of a wonderful view. Make sure your kitty has a nice window seat. Maybe your neighbors are more interesting than you thought.

Even cats appreciate a nice bathroom space 

Surely, you don’t like when your cat’s litter box is smelly and dirty. Well, be certain that your cats also don’t appreciate such a sight. Many cats will refuse to go into a litter box that is not well-maintained. Thankfully, there are many new accessories that can help you in maintaining your cat bathroom hygiene.

Modern litter boxes are designed not to spread odors. Some litter sucks in bad smells, and you can buy many deodorants that keep the litter box and the room it is in fresh. But you should also make sure you position the litter box in the proper room. This room should have regular ventilation and normal levels of humidity. Your cat’s litter box is something that marks his or her territory. This is very important, especially if you keep your cat and dog in the same apartment. Marking specific territories for each pet is one of the best ways to get your cat and dog to get along. Thus, if your heart is set on making your apartment cat-friendly, provide your cat with the perfect litter box in a place they like.

If you have multiple pets in your apartment, make sure that each pet has their own territory and space. This way there is a greater chance that all your pets will get along.

Making your apartment cat-friendly can only be achieved if you know your cat 

Only cat owners can understand how different it is being a cat parent in comparison to taking care of other pets. Of course, it is very convenient that you don’t have to take them outside for a walk and they usually don’t take up too much of your space. Yet, they are very emotional and sensitive creatures. They have very specific needs which are both emotional and physical. Every cat has their own attitude, confidence and, personality. As a cat owner, you should know what your cat needs in order to be happy. By watching their behavior and demeanor you will know exactly which adjustments need to be made to your home, to cover all your cat's wants.

More than anything, show them love and attention 

Making your apartment cat-friendly is what every responsible cat owner should do. But, don’t think that your duties to your furry friend end there. Making your home into a feline-friendly space is a big undertaking. Your cat will surely feel the difference once you are done. However, all changes within your home will not matter unless you show your cat some love. Just like any other living and breathing thing, cats also like to feel attention and appreciation. Buying cat toys will not make up for the time you neglected your cat. So, show your cat your devotion and care. You will be thrilled when you receive it in return as well. All your efforts will be well worth it.

Click on the pictures to see where it takes you and the links in the article.

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

How To Best Change Your Cat's Food To A New Brand

Cat owners may have many reasons for wanting to change the food they feed their pets. Oftentimes, it is needed because of a medical condition and was recommended by their veterinarian. Another reason may be that your ca’s current food is no longer available for sale. No matter what your reason is, transitioning cat food needs to be done slowly to ensure your cat doesn’t get sick or have any adverse reactions.

Why Gradually Change Cat’s Food?

When you suddenly change the food your cat eats, it could cause stomach issues such as reduced appetite, diarrhea and vomiting. Cats are creatures of habit. Changing their food too quickly will not end very well. Starving your pet into eating new food they don’t like will not be good for their health. They can end up developing a “fatty liver” or hepatic lipidosis. This could be life-threatening and painful to your cat.

Changing Your Cat’s Food Safely

The best way to transition your cat’s food to a new brand or type is to gradually make the change over a week or more. When you gradually increase the new food each day and gradually decrease their old food at the same time, the risk of your cat getting sick or having digestive issues will be significantly reduced. In some cases, you may not have the ability to change slowly.

If your cat is picky about what food they eat and you are changing their food, the best cat foods to transition with are ones that are similar to their old foods. Begin by adding small amounts of the new food to their current food and watch how they respond. Give them 30 minutes to eat what they want and remove the bowl. If all goes well, you will have successfully transitioned to the new food effectively and safely in just a week. We’d highly recommend Solid Gold cat food if your cat doesn’t have any prior preferences.

Some cats may not make the change easily because they are very picky about what they eat and don’t like changes. These cats will require more time and patience on your part. The changes will need to be slower in this case until they get used to the taste and texture of the new food. It is best during the transition to set aside specific feeding times to ensure they are hungry enough to eat what they are given. If you allow for free-feeding when transitioning, your cat may take their time and pick out the old food and leave the new food.

Progressively Changing From One Kibble to Another

Many cat owners find themselves unsatisfied with the way one kibble is suiting their pet. Some are concerned about the quality. Others worry that their cat’s health may be at risk. Unhealthy weight gain/loss, hair loss, changes in behavior, and more are symptoms of malnutrition. If your cat is suffering from any of these problems, it’s a good indication that it’s time to begin experimenting with a new kibble. This should be done in 10% increments to slowly allow the cat/pet to adjust to the new food. Speeding up this process will result in a much higher chance of diarrhea or other things. To assure that your cat maintains proper health, this transition should be made over the course of at least one month.

Transitioning Your Cat To Wet Food From Dry

It can be more difficult to transition your cat from dry food to wet food. Unfortunately, some older cats and those with teeth or digestive issues will be required to make this change for their health. Changes that result in significant texture changes will be difficult for some cats. There are a few tricks to take into consideration for making the change easier. Try to sprinkle some of their dry food kibbles on top of the new wet food during feedings.

This process will allow your cat to get used to the smell of wet food while gradually making the change. After a few days, mix the dry food in with the wet food. You may also choose to grind up the dry food and mix it with the wet food to get some of the flavor mixed in. This may make the new food more palatable for your cat and entice them to give it a try.

If your cat is not giving in to the new wet food easily, try a little exercise or playtime for 10-15 minutes before feeding time. This will get them hungry and more likely to eat the food they are given. It can help them accept new food faster. Any food transition, whether wet or dry, will need to be done carefully. Pay attention to your cat's behavior and note any changes to your veterinarian.

Click on the pictures to see where it takes you and the links in the article.

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

How to Help Cats Adjust to a New Home

When planning a move, you go through many different stages and almost all of them are followed by stress. Unfortunately, you are not the only one that goes through the relocation struggles. Your family and pets also go through it. Nevertheless, moves can sometimes be very difficult for your kids. And of course, let’s not forget about your pets. So, you are not the only one that needs to adjust to a new home. Sometimes cats may go through a very difficult time during and after a move. As a cat mom or dad, you are responsible for your beloved furball. You are their number one supporter and they will need your help during this tough time.

Things that you can do to help your cat adjust to a new home

We must put it out there from the start. Just like people, cats have different personalities and attitudes. Therefore, no two cats will react to a move in the same manner. However, one thing is certain. They all need love and attention from their owners. Moving with cats is rarely a piece of cake, so here is what you can do to make things easier for your furry buddy.

Let your cat familiarize with your new home gradually

Cats are animals that are very much connected to their surroundings. They love the familiar and they might be shocked once you change their home. Introducing them immediately to the entire home at once might be a bit much. Your cat will adjust to a new home much better if you take things slow. Start with one room. Place the litter box, cat furniture, cat toys and everything else your cat loves into the chosen room. This will be your kitties’ new nest, at least for starters. Once you notice that your cat is feeling nice and cozy in this room, you can slowly expand the familiarization with the rest of the house.

What about kittens?

We went over what to do with grown cats when moving, but what about the babies? Moving baby cats or kittens is a totally different story. When bringing a kitten into a new home or around new people, a two-week quarantine is always a great idea. They are super cute, but they are also very sensitive and fragile. Thus, they need extra love and care.

Once you choose the first room your cat will get to know, make sure their bad is in it. This will give your cat a clear indication of where to start their adjustment.

Respect your cat’s feelings

Once you move into your new home, your cat might go into hiding. Another option is the lack of interaction. While you want to cuddle and snuggle, your cat might want to do the opposite. As silly as it might sound, respect your cat’s mood. Are you used to running around the house and jumping with your cat? Just having good old fun. Well, that type of exercise with your pet was in your old home. Give it some time to get comfortable. Once it does, you can bring back your favorite activities.

Make sure your new home is cat-friendly

Before your cat starts adjusting to a new home, you must make sure your new space is not only comfortable and cozy for you, but also for your little friend. As a cat mommy or daddy, you must think upfront what your cat needs to be safe and happy. Check your new home for everything that can be a hazard for your feline buddy. Do you have any hazardous or sharp items left lying around from the move? Is there a crawl space that a cat can use to get outside? Do you have any poisonous plants in the garden? Do your best to think one step ahead.

What every cat parent wants is for their furry baby to be cozy and comfortable. For that to happen you might need to put in some extra effort.

Tag your cat

Unfortunately, pets sometimes get lost. It causes both you and the pet massive heartache. In case that occurs, you want your cat’s information to be up to date. If their microchip contains your old info, there is no guarantee you will get your precious kitten back. So, once a friendly neighbor or a pedestrian finds your pet they will know exactly on which door to knock if your information is up to date.

Your kitten might love being outside, so if you insist on taking it out for a walk we recommend that you use a leash. Exploring on their own might not be the best idea.

How long will it take your cat to adjust to a new home?

This is a very simple question, that is regrettably very difficult to answer. Yet, there is a simple explanation of why the answer varies. Every cat is different and therefore you cannot predict their reaction to your move. That is why you need to keep a close eye on it after you move. Would you keep a close eye on your kids after a move? You sure would because you are a loving parent. Well, the same goes for your four-legged children. Make this a priority. It will be hard for you because you will be overwhelmed with unpacking and settling in, but you cannot backseat this obligation.

Don’t avoid using your cat carrier

It is no secret that some cats hate being put in a cat carrier. Thus, it might break your heart to hear their displeasure once you close the door of the carrier. Just remember, it is for their own safety and protection. Just to be on the safe side, put your cat in the carrier once the moving crew arrives at your home. So, kitty’s movement should be restricted during loading, transportation, and unloading. Once the moving crew leaves your new home, it is your call whether you will let the cat out right away. Before you open those doors and let your baby out, make sure it is safe.

Signs that your cat is under severe stress

In the end, you will need to put in some effort to make sure that your cat adjusts to a new home. It is important that you are able to recognize if your cat is not being their usual self. Most common stress indicators are:

• Extreme vocalization 

• Excessive scratching 

• Hiding or dodging interaction 

• Panting 

• Runny nose or/and eyes 

• Unusual aggression

These are the most common indicators that something is not right with your cat. However, you will know best if something is wacky because you know your cat best. As mentioned, cats love things that they recognize. They give them comfort and make them feel safe. One thing that your cat knows best is you. Even if it is for a few minutes a day, pay attention to your cat. What needs the most is your love and support.

Click on the pictures to see where it takes you and the links in the article.

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

Moving with cats - how to prepare?

If there is anyone who dislikes moving more than humans, it is cats. Once they adapt to their surroundings, they resist new routines. Though, you already know that. What you may not know yet is how to make moving with cats bearable for your loving pets, so stick with us and learn how to do it the right way!

Prepare your cat for the move

The most unpleasant part of the move for a cat is the time it spends in the carrier. Likely, your pet won't appreciate the seemingly endless time spent locked behind bars. To make it as comfortable as possible when the moving time comes, help your cat adapt to the carrier in advance. The more it dislikes it, the sooner you should start with preparations.

Simply, leave the carrier open in the room your cat spends the most time in. Let the cat explore it and get used to it. You can place food, treats, favorite toys around and inside the carrier to show your cat it is safe. If your feline friend is still anxious about the carrier, talk to the vet. They may prescribe your cat a mild sedative or anti-anxiety medication for the duration of the trip. 

Furthermore, you should seriously consider protecting your cat with pet insurance. Nowadays, every moving company offers basic moving insurance for your belongings - why wouldn't you protect your pet as well? That way, your cat will be insured against any ailment or accidents that may befall them during the trip. Pet travel insurance works in many ways like human travel insurance. However, premiums are calculated after taking the species and age of your pet into account.

During the relocation

Moving is stressful for humans and animals alike. Nourish your cat with the right combination of vitamins and supplements during and after the relocation. You, at least, know what is going on; your furry family member doesn't. Cats are territorial and relocation may upset them quite a bit.

Avoid moving-induced anxieties

The best you can do for your cat and yourself is to seek professional help when moving out of state. However, you should do whatever you can to keep your cat safe and secure on moving day and reduce its stress as much as possible. The safest way to do this is to empty one room in the house completely and move your cat with its belongings there. That room, preferably a bathroom, should remain closed while the movers come in and out. Not only will your cat remain in the house, but you will also be certain where to find it and it won't participate in the moving chaos. The cat shouldn't be in the carrier until the moment you need to leave the home. While in the room, it should have sufficient but not too much food and water, a litter box, a container, and its toys. 

No one knows your cat's daily schedule better than you and you should stick to it, even during the moving process. With feeding and playing coming always at the same time, your cat will go through the ordeal of changing homes much more smoothly. Finally, once you place your cat in the carrier, don't open it until you secure a base room in your new home. Once you move in and cat-proof the first room your cat will explore, place the cat's belongings around the carrier, open it and welcome your furry roommate to its new home with a treat.

After you settle in

Moving into your new home may seem like the end of the relocation process, but moving with cats doesn't stop there. Even though you have brought in your stuff and began unpacking, there is something more you need to consider. You should carefully prepare your new house for your cat. It is their new home, too, though they may not yet accept it as such.

How well they will adapt depends quite a lot on your efforts. You can try to spread its scent around your home by gently rubbing its cheeks and head with a cotton cloth. Then rub the cloth at your cat's level against the doors and furniture to help it get familiar with its surroundings. You will know you were successful once your cat starts rubbing its head against the objects in the house, further spreading the scent coming from its glands and marking its new territory.

Thorough cleaning and cat-proofing

Unless you purchased a brand-new home, it may be that the previous tenants owned pets, which could cause a problem. Your cat may be upset by the scent left by the animals that used to live there, and it may take it longer to adapt to the new environment. Cats are territorial, and the least you can do to help them adjust is to remove any traces of previous residents. Make sure you deep clean any furniture and carpets, steam clean the floors and disinfect all other surfaces. 

As it goes with all relocations, they tend to be quite chaotic. Stacks of heavy boxes, power plugs, cables, and unsecured windows pose a threat to a cat. To properly cat-proof your home, make sure there aren't any nooks or holes where your cat can get stuck or hurt. Also, find and remove any pest-control traps and poisonous or harmful houseplants.

In case your cat is not adapting well

Depending on the size of your new home, it should take from one to three weeks for the cat to get familiar with its new environment. Don't open all doors at once and allow the cat to roam freely right off the bat. Let it get accustomed to one room at a time and explore slowly. Spend as much free time as you can with your cat and it should help it feel more secure. If your presence and care don't prove sufficient and your cat doesn't feel at ease in its new home, take it to the vet and ask for a piece of expert advice. 

Click on the pictures to see what kittens we currently have available and the links in the article.

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

Why Savannah Cats Are One of the Smartest Breeds

Inviting an animal into your home is a big decision and a serious responsibility — but when that pet is a Savannah cat, it also means some serious benefits! Your Savannah cat may be a cute and cuddly member of the family, but he or she is also an active little creature with a big personality and a pretty big brain.

While we all know that cats are awfully intelligent creatures, some pure-bred breeds are notably smarter than their fellow felines. According to Johanna Reel, Registered Vet Tech at NHV Natural Pet, “Cat breeds that originate in Africa also tend to be quite intelligent. These include the Abyssinian and Savannah cats.” Here are a few specific traits that make the Savannah cat one of the smartest breeds around.

They’re Connected to their Wild Side

Savannah cats have a very distinct and exotic look, thanks to their close relation to the wild serval. But they may have inherited more than their looks from the African cat; Reel says that “[Savannahs] tend to be more directly linked to their wild ancestors, and perhaps are a little bit closer to independent wild cats who need intelligence on their side to survive in the world.”

The wild nature of a Savannah cat also makes them very social creatures — a wonderful quality in a lifetime companion. When you bring a Savannah into the family, you make them a part of your pride, and these little guys are very loyal to their masters. Savannahs have been known to follow their owners around the house, and even engage in some playful pranks (these cats have a great sense of humor)!

They Love to Hunt

Most domestic cats enjoy hunting (just ask every cat lover who’s found a dead bird or mouse on their back porch). However, Savannah cats are especially partial to tracking and hunting down prey. Part of this is instinctual — as we just mentioned, they are more closely related to wild cats than most domesticated breeds — but it’s also a testament to their intelligence. For Savannahs, hunting and chasing is a fun way to exercise their active brains.

Because of this love of the chase, your Savannah cat may easily become restless if they’re left alone. According to Reel, Savannahs need a lot of proper stimulation or they can become bored, which may lead to destructive behavior. Luckily, this potential problem has an easy solution: take your cat on regular walks! Savannah cats usually love walking with their owners and enjoy spending time playing outdoors, but we do not recommend taking them outside without a leash. Due to their adventurous nature, they’re likely to take off on their own.

For their time spent indoors, cat toys and special cat furniture are great ways to keep them stimulated. Consider adding cat-climbable shelving or sisal poles to your home, built here in the USA and sold at A1Savannahs Savannahs. This furniture is a fantastic way to keep cats happy and engaged inside. We also sell hand made by us Marino Wool Cat Beds that are ideal to keep you kitty warm during the winter and cool during the summer.

They’re Very Observant

Have you ever noticed your Savannah cat staring intently around the room? You might have thought he was staring into space, but it’s more likely that he was keeping tabs on everything around him. These cats are incredibly observant — likely another hangover from their wild ancestors, who had to keep an eye out for rivals or predators on the horizon.

Because of their sharp observation skills, Savannah cats can easily learn the layout of an area (which is why it’s important to make sure your house is ready for them), which helps them quickly adjust to their surroundings. In fact, the Savannah cat’s observant nature is part of the reason that they make excellent service animals! Savannah’s are more likely to notice changes in their owner’s moods, which makes them great therapy animals.

Whether you’re looking for a pet to bring you emotional support, a sharp shooter to hunt down pests, or just a beautiful animal who loves to play, Savannah cats are some of the best and brightest cats you’ll find. If you invite one of these beauties into your life, you’re guaranteed to fall in love!

This article was written for us by Aaron Smith who is a writer and copy strategist for several companies and non-profits. He often covers topics important to pet owners, and is a dedicated dog dad to his three pups. In his free time, Aaron enjoys swimming, swing dancing, and sci-fi novels.

Click on the pictures to see what kittens we currently have available and the links in the article.

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN