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

5 Ways to Make Your Dogs and Cats Get Along

The conflict between cats and dogs is a known fact. It was even evident in the popular cartoon series Tom and Jerry produced by William Hannah and Joseph Barbera. 

However, plenty of pet owners testify to their cats and dogs getting along quite well, despite popular beliefs. Hence, it’s possible for the two species to get along, and become good buddies. 

According to pet experts at Dog Academy, they demonstrate the ability to get along only if they’ve had a previous experience of living with another species. Since both the animals communicate quite differently when it comes to expressing themselves, confusion may ensue. 

Regardless, we are here to show you exactly what you can do to let the two different genera of animals live together harmoniously. So enjoy!

1. It’s Easier When They are Young

A puppy and a kitten can get along easily since they had no previous bad experiences with other species. Also, because of their young age, they will welcome anything and anybody with open arms. 

As they grow up together, they will develop a deep friendship. You should consider the breed of the dog and the cat, and make sure they match size. That is because if the puppy is too big, it may harm the tiny kitten. 

Moreover, playtime can get too rough for the kitten as the pup grows up. In an effort to teach the pup to respect the kitten, instead of chasing it, give it a toy to pursue. 

2. Patience is the Key

Don’t expect your pooch and your kitten to be friends at first sight. They need a few days to a week to sense each other out, and get closer. 

Since pets are territorial, you can’t force them to get along. They have to get to know each other at their own paces. 

If they are living in the same house, they are bound to run into each other. Talk to them softly, and use toys to invite them to play together. 

You can also let them meet each other from across a pet gate. Since a dog is more hyper and aggressive, don’t let it get too close to the cat. 

Some pet owners prefer to leash their dogs when they are meeting cats for the first few times. It is important that you supervise when they are together at least for the first few days. 

3. A Cat Needs Its Own Territory

A cat’s personality and preferences differ greatly to that of a dog. A cat needs to feel safe in her territory without having to worry about a dog wanting to be friends. This is due to its territorial nature. 

Therefore, it will be your job to teach your dog to respect a cat’s boundaries. Use commands whenever you see your dog crossing its boundaries. 

It’s better to let the two animals eat and sleep separately. They will learn more about each other by sniffing the scent left by the other. As they get more used to the other animal, their fears towards each other will also melt away. 

In all honesty, it actually depends on the cat to accept the dog. A dog would normally accept the other animal easily, but the cat takes time to analyze the dog before fully accepting it as its family. 

Some pet owners rub a towel on their dog, then let their cat smell it. Initially, the cat may not react specifically to the unfamiliar scent. When this is done a few times over, the cat relaxes to the scent. 

4. Cradle the Cat When Introducing to the Dog

Once you feel like they have both sniffed each other’s presence, it’s time to let them get a little bit closer. Cradle your cat in your arms, and bring it closer to the dog so they can both see each other. 

However, don’t let go of your cat, as this may frighten her. Your cat may respond in a variety of ways, while you introduce it to the dog. If it shuts away from the dog, take it slow. 

They may stare at each other, and try to understand the other’s scent. But be mindful of your cat’s reactions throughout the procedure. Finally, give them both treats for taking the attempt to get along. 

Furthermore, whatever you do, keep the cat in your arms ensuring it that you won’t let her go. Give the cat a chance to understand its canine family member while being held safely in your arms. 

5. Give Your Cat a Place to Escape to

As you make progress by following the steps discussed below, gradually you should let your cat and dog roam around the house as they please. But you have to give your cat a place to escape to, just in case your dog becomes aggressive or clingy. 

Bring a cat tree where your cat can escape to whenever it feels threatened by the dog. It can also attempt to climb up furniture in the house to stay away from the dog. 

When this happens, just let it. Forcing the cat to hang out with the dog may not be your cat’s cup of tea. 

Additionally, you can spay or neuter both your dog and cat, since sometimes hormones are responsible for making dogs aggressive. You should also not let your dog get close to your cat’s space, food or the litter box. Your cat won’t feel good about the situation if her personal space is invaded by the dog. 

Final Thoughts

As you follow the steps, you will allow a sweet bond to create between the two pets. It may not happen in a few weeks, and may take more time. Hence, it’s better to research about the potential of your dog and cat getting along before deciding to purchase a combo like this. 

Whether you are a cat person or a dog person, you can do a research on what sort of pet can adjust to living with another animal better. However, those cute videos of cats and dogs on YouTube are not lies. 

If your cat and dog can manage to get along eventually, it will be the sweetest thing ever. And you will be the one uploading videos of them doing cute things together!

Click on the pictures to see what kittens we currently have available.

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

4 Signs Your Savannah Cats May Be Sick

A Savannah cat is one of the largest domesticated cat breeds in the world, and is a mix between the African Serval and domestic cat. This extraordinary breed became increasingly popular in the year 2000, and has been well-loved by cat enthusiasts all around. Savannah cats are lovely to look at, resembling the wild appearance of a cheetah , except it is smaller in size. With its dramatic spots and patterns, Savannah cat are one of the most beautiful cat breeds.

These cats are incredibly loyal, social, and friendly animals. Their temperament is, in fact, one of the reasons why it’s a highly sought after pet breed. If they get sick, it’s normal for their owners to be distraught. This is precisely the reason why you should be aware of the signs and symptoms of a sick Savannah cat. Below are some of the major symptoms when sickness occurs:

1. Your Cat Looks Physically Heavy

When you send your cat to the vet regularly, you’re going to be made aware of the weight that your cat has to maintain for it to be healthy. If your cat looks physically heavy, and if it already has a hard time walking or carrying its body, that is a tall tale sign that your Savannah cat is overweight and obese.

Obesity is a serious problem not just for human beings, but also for felines. It can shorten their lifespan by as much as two years. More importantly, obesity is the starting point for many other diseases like the following:

● Arthritis

● Diabetes

● Cancer

Your cat can maintain a healthy weight by staying physically active. Just as with human beings, they need physical activity for them to have better mobility through various forms of daily exercise and play.

Learn more about the correlation between weight and other diseases in both cats and dogs through Fuzzy Rescue.

2. Your Cat’s Eating Habits Have Changed

Changes in your cat’s eating habits are easy to spot, especially when you’re a hands-on owner. If there is anything out of the ordinary with the eating habits of your cat, this can be a great indication that they are sick. For instance, your cat may already feel too lethargic and ill that they’ll no longer have the desire or energy to eat. On the other hand, low insulin levels in their body may also cause your cat to eat more often than usual. Be alert with any changes that seem unusual to you, and have your vet take a look at your feline friend right away.

3. Your Cat Is Limping

Physical illnesses or disabilities in your cat are easier to detect because of the signs that start to manifest. One of these symptoms is having difficulty in walking or your cat is limping, which can be a common sign of arthritis. Arthritis is also prevalent in cats, especially since they move around a lot. You can observe this best when your cat stands up after laying down for a long time.

Along with limping, you should also make yourself aware of changes in your cat’s movements, such as a sudden difficulty in jumping or reaching high areas. Jumping is a common movement for cats, and when they seem more indolent and less active, this can be a warning sign that your cat may be sick.

4. Your Cat Starts To Show Rapid Breathing

Rapid breathing in cats isn’t normal. Typically, this symptom can progress quite quickly. You may not have paid attention to your cat’s difficulty in breathing because it wasn’t too consistent at first. But if it starts to progress more frequently through out the day, then you should visit your vet for a checkup. According to veterinarian Keong Kim, rapid breathing can be a symptom of lung or heart disease in your cat, so it is very important to have your cat examined by your veterinarian.Rapid breathing can be a symptom of lung or heart disease in your cat, so it is very important to have your cat examined by your veterinarian.

Conclusion

Savannah cats have quite a long lifespan. They can live from up to 20+ years. Hence, if you own one, you are sure to live with your cat for almost two decades. During this time you and your cat create an extreme bond that is unbreakable.

When your cat is ill, it’s inevitable that you’re going to be especially concerned. Same as is the case with human beings, awareness is the key to preventing serious health issues in your cats. Always be observant when it comes to your feline friends as changes in their behavior, energy levels, and appetite can tell you whether or not it’s time to send them to the vet.

There are so many things as a Savannah Cat owner you can do to prevent illness. Below you can find some of the things we recommend.

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

How To Keep Your Cat Healthy While You’re Away

A cat can be good company. When you have one, you’ll be able to relieve yourself from stress,and your home won’t feel so empty. However, there will be instances when you have to leave your cat alone. You might do this because of work, vacation, or other personal emergencies. And when this happens, do you know how to keep your cat healthy even when you’re away? This article can provide helpful tips.

Being a cat owner doesn’t mean that you can no longer do anything without your pet. Here are some ways on how you can keep your furry friend healthy even when you’re not around:

1. Get An Automated Feeder

Just like human beings, cats need to be fed regularly. Depending on the breed and age of your cat, you might need to feed them twice or thrice a day. To ensure that your cat will get the nutrition they need when you’re away, buy the best automated cat feeder for your feline friend. This device dispenses the right amount of food for your cat at certain times of the day. An automated cat feeder is a smart investment that ensures your cat is well-fed even if they are left home alone.

2. Leave Plenty Of Water

Aside from food, water is a necessity for cats. All cats will need a clean and fresh supply of water, regardless of whether they’re young or old. When leaving your cat alone, always leave plenty of water for them by ensuring that their bowl is filled before you head out. An extra supply of fresh water placed in different bowls around your home will also make sure that they’ll never run out of their drinking supply.

If you have the budget, consider buying a pet water fountain. This device provides continuous water flow, allowing your cats to stay hydrated during your absence.

3. Think About The Weather In Your Area

Different weather conditions will have different effects on your cat. If your cat is exposed to too much cold, they can easily get sick. Too much humidity can also cause your cat to experience a heatwave. Before leaving your cat, think about the weather in your area first. Is there a storm coming? Will the temperature rise in the middle of the day? Make sure that your cat is comfortable indoors based on the expected weather for the day.

If the news or weather report informed you that the heat would be scorching during noon, consider leaving the air conditioning or fan on before leaving. This tip can be appropriate if you’re only planning to leave your cat alone for a couple of hours.

4. Add A Second Litter Box

A litter box can make your life as a cat owner easier and more convenient. When you have one, you don’t have to waste time cleaning different areas of your home from cat urine and feces. A litter box encourages your cat to do their business in one place, making your home cleaner. If you’re going to leave them alone, it’s best if you invest in a second litter box. Since no one is around to scoop out the first litter box, this area can fill up fast and can prompt your cat to find other areas in which to answer the call of nature. Once they see that their litter box is full, they will likely pee or poop in other areas of your home, and this can be very stressful once you arrive.

When you place a second litter box indoors, you’ll reduce the chances of your cat leaving a mess in places where they shouldn’t. Buying a second litter box might require money from your pocket, but because of the benefits you can enjoy from it, this purchase will be worth it in the end.

5. Provide Home Entertainment

Being left at home can be lonesome. This is especially true if you don’t have anything else to do. The same notion applies to your cats. When you leave them alone at home, they have nothing else to do but to wait for your return. To keep anxiety and boredom at bay, provide home entertainment for your cat. You can do this by leaving the radio or TV on so your cat won’t feel so lonely. You can also consider buying your cat a new cozy bed or scratching post to keep them entertained.

Consider Diversity

There are actually a lot of ways on how you can keep your cat healthy while you’re away. Aside from using the tips in this article, you can do your own research, ask for help from people who also have cats or feel free to give us a call. Different cats will have different reactions to a specific practice so it’s best if you scout for options and test the waters with your own cat.

Take a look on at some of the other products we recommend.

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

Vitamins, Supplements, and Nutrition for Savannah Cats

Walk through any grocery store and you’ll find a large assortment of cat foods, most of which promise to be “complete and balanced,” or which purport to be better than the competition's offerings. The truth is you should probably walk on past most of these foods. Savannah cats need high quality food—not marketing gimmicks.

Health comes from within, and begins and ends with an excellent diet. You can ward off many health problems, and even prolong your cat’s life, with the right combination of nutrition and supplements.

Savannah Cat Nutrition Basics

Cats are obligate carnivores. This means they have to eat meat to remain healthy. Savannah cats are less fully domesticated than many other American house cats. They bring with them the needs of their parents or recent ancestors. So a Savannah cat who doesn’t receive a healthy diet can potentially suffer from that diet more than a traditional domesticated cat.

The healthiest diet is meat-based, and ideally raw. But balancing a raw meat diet can prove difficult, and many cat owners have neither the time nor the knowledge necessary to provide raw meat. If you want to offer a raw meat diet, we recommend reading extensively from knowledgeable veterinarians and breeders. You may also be able to purchase prepackaged raw meat.

If you’re not prepared to give raw meat a try, choose foods with meat—not meat byproduct—listed as the first ingredient. Needless carbs, especially corn, act as filler, and can be harmful if fed in large doses. Cat food must list their ingredients in order from most to least prevalent, so if corn is one of the first listed ingredients, steer clear. Some other ingredients to avoid, especially in large proportions, include:

• potato

• wheat

• rice

Does My Cat Need Vitamins and Supplements?

Opinions on supplementation differ from breeder to breeder and veterinarian to veterinarian. It’s very difficult to ensure a cat gets everything they need with each meal, so we recommend erring on the side of caution—particularly with higher filial generations, who may have more complex nutritional needs.

Here’s what we recommend:

High-quality multivitamin

A high-quality multivitamin is pre-formulated to meet common cat nutritional needs. It covers most bases for cats who skip meals, and for those whose raw diet is not perfectly balanced. A multivitamin is not a substitute for healthy eating, but it will help your cat avoid major nutritional deficits.

Cranberry supplement

Some research suggests that cranberry can help sweep bacteria from the urinary tract. A daily cranberry or urinary health blend can help protect urinary health, particularly in male cats. If your cat has a history of urinary problems, cranberry may be the solution.

Probiotic

Cats, like all animals, rely on a complex colony of bacteria to keep their bodies healthy—and especially to preserve the health of the digestive tract. Good bacteria can prevent a host of gut health problems, including parasites, diarrhea, and constipation. Consider adding a probiotic to your cat, or feeding a cat food that contains probiotics. Look for ingredients like yeast, which is sometimes referred to as dried aspergillus oryzae fermentation extract.

Calcium

Calcium is especially important for preserving bone health in growing kittens. So consider either a multivitamin that is rich in calcium or a separate calcium supplement.

Omega 3-6-9 oil

Omega fatty acids have been clinically proven to fill a variety of roles. They support healthy neurons and brain development, protect organs such as the heart and liver, and can help ensure a healthy skin and coat. Omega 3, 6, and 9 supplements are especially important for cats with a history of skin or coat issues, or with allergies. We recommend using an oil, not a capsule.

Joint supplements

Savannah cats are active pets who love to run, and jump, and play. As they get older, this can become a liability, especially if they develop joint health issues. Consider giving middle aged and senior cats a glucosamine and chondroitin supplement. This can protect the health of their joints, reducing pain and lowering the risk of injury.

Talk to your breeder or veterinarian for more specific information. It’s always best to continue feeding the supplements your breeder used when your cat was a kitten, since this reduces the risk of negative reactions. If you’re not sure how to start a supplement regimen and your breeder can’t help, it’s time to talk to your vet. Have more questions? Give us a call and let us help you devise the perfect combination of supplements for your feline friend.

Click on the pictures or the hyperlink to see some of the products we recommend.

Until our next cat convo

-Martin