Tips on how to store cat food properly

Being as mindful as you can about your cat’s diet is one of the most significant responsibilities a petparent can take. The love we feel for our furry friends backs up the belief that quality nutrition is not merely about fewer trips to the vet and lower vet bills but about making an immediate difference to your cat’s overall health and, subsequently, the longevity and quality of life. Still, even the highest-quality bag of kibble can lose its freshness or even go bad completely if not stored appropriately, at which point we end up with upset stomachs, loose stools, food poisonings, and the like. As for the question of what you can do about it, how you can store cat food properly, committing to a quick read of this article is the sign you’re headed in the right direction.

The importance of the ‘best by’ date

It is important that you take a step back and reflect on the importance of purchasing the freshest food bag (or can) on the shelf. We should make a habit of checking the expiry dates and buying the food which expires far in the future. Both wet and dry cat food always have an expiration date, and it is usually stamped on the bottom or the side of the package.

Inspect the packaging before you make a purchase

Also, never forget to examine the food packaging before purchasing it. If the cans are dented, leaking, or bulging, and the bags have any tears, rips, or discoloration on them, then a good storage solution and earning how to store cat food properly will not be of much help at all, as the contents are certain to go bad a lot faster. Therefore, you should inspect each bag or container before taking it home with you to your cat, as any damage on the surface could be a direct indicator that the contents have been exposed and, thus, contaminated. Another good rule of thumb is not purchasing large packages of food, unless you are a proud owner of multiple cats, because like that, you will ensure all of it is fresh when served.

Storing dry cat food

What to protect it from?

The natural antioxidants of your cat’s dry food are meant to preserve food from fat oxidation that destroys the content’s vitamins and causes rancidity. However, once the bag is open, its contents are immediately exposed to environmental elements that accelerate the spoilage through the oxidation of the fats. To make sure that the food keeps its nutritional value and remains fresh, you need to avoid the following:

1. Exposure to air. Although it is unreasonable to think you can remove all air from an opened package, you can at least protect its contents by keeping it tightly closed. Press on the bag to release as much air as possible before rolling the bag’s top edges and keeping it closed with either a clothespin, tape, or a clip.

2. Sunlight. Avoid leaving the bag directly under the sunlight because it elevates both the food & temperature, eventually causing it to spoil more quickly, and humidity levels, which is the main culprit for mold.

3. Hot temperatures. Keep the bags in a cool dark area, away from heat sources, such as the radiators, and preferably in a temperature not higher than 20°C.

4. Humidity. All dehydrated foods are quick to absorb moisture, so it is essential to keep them safe from all water sources, as moisture absorption might promote the growth of bacteria and fungi.

5. Pests. It is no secret that food attracts various pests, such as insects and rodents. For this reason, it is highly advisable that you keep them from accessing it.

Where to keep it?

To protect the cat food from the environmental elements and pest infestation, you need to know how to store it properly. You should never throw away its original packaging. It is made of a special material designed to protect the freshness and keep pests away. Therefore, it is the best option to store cat food properly (this especially goes for high-quality food bags) and always keep it tightly closed.

For extra protection, whether in storage or your home, you can put the original packaging inside of a container - most preferably, a glass or porcelain one - and then close it with a lid. Lastly, dry cat food should be consumed 6-8 weeks from the moment you open the bag.

In case your preferred way of shopping for cat’s food is ordering it in larger quantities, then you most probably keep it somewhere outside of your home. Wherever you store it, just remember that this space has to be dry, cool, and away from direct sunlight. And, since garages and balconies belong to a category of uncontrolled environments, climate-controlled storage is your best option.

Storing wet cat food

When closed, canned cat food can retain its freshness for years if you store it in a dry and cool location, like, for instance, your pantry area. On the other hand, it is best to be sure that your cat will eat it at one stroke upon opening because open canned food will spoil very quickly.

If your cat eats only half, you can keep it stored in your refrigerator, but no longer than a day or two. Also, remember to either seal the can in a plastic wrap or use a plastic pet food lid on the top of the can to minimize the effect of air exposure and prevent moisture loss. If you have already poured all of it into a bowl, as far as the nutrition dos and don’ts are concerned, leaving it to sit at a normal room temperature longer than an hour or two is a big no-no.

If wet pet food comes in a bag instead of a can, what your cat doesn’t consume can be left inside if you fold down the bag’s edges, tightly fix it with tape or a clip and then store it in the fridge. Still, it is best that your cat consumes it or that you discard it within the first 24 hours.

We all want to do the best for our pets to ensure they live a happy, healthy and long life. Dental hygiene, vaccinations, regular vet visits are all important. But the diet of our pets is what really makes a difference in their quality of life and what will prevent many health problems.

Click HERE to see what products we recommend or on the links in the article to see where it takes you.

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

Nutrition do's and don'ts for cats

Nothing can substitute a good diet and its health benefits and cats are no exception to this rule. The best way to make your cat friend thrive is to provide it with the best possible nutrition, love, and care. And don't forget: cats in the wild are obligate carnivores, unlike dogs who act more like omnivores.

Even though its lifestyle greatly differs from her ancestors', your cat likely still retains most of her instincts and nutritional requirements. It means that it requires food almost entirely based on protein and fat. With that in mind, nutrition for cats and its do's and don'ts are based on a few very simple rules.

Insight into cat nutrition

It is extremely important to maintain a strong relationship between your cat and its veterinarian, since only they can recommend the best diet for your feline pet. This is partly due to varying requirements cats have at different life stages. Pregnant and lactating cats will need certain supplements in their diet, newborns will drink only milk for a few weeks, and young, adult, and senior cats will all have different nutritional needs.

Throughout your cat's life, you will need to change and adjust its diet, as carefully as possible. Sometimes, you might need to reach out for supplements and vitamins, but only after consulting your cat's veterinarian. Finally, you should avoid common feeding mistakes in cats to keep your pet healthy. Grass that felines sometimes munch on helps with the process of digestion but doesn't have nutritional value. It is a mistake to assume that a diet rich in vegetables benefits cats, as they don't have the enzymes needed to digest veggies.

The most important cat nutrition do's and don'ts

When you're buying cat food, take a good look at the nutrition table on the packaging as well as the list of ingredients. If the list starts with carbohydrates or the list of grains and vegetables is longer than the list of meat, avoid the product. Carbs make cat food less expensive, but cheap cat food will actually cost you more in the long run, not to mention that it is likely not beneficial to your cat.

A way of providing proper nutrition for cats is in the balancing act between an affordable and nutritious diet. However, it is not only food that matters in a cat's life, even though cats make it seem like that. Note that only a happy living environment for your furry friend combined with proper nutrition will keep your cat healthy and extend its life.

Cat nutrition do's

• Always look for a note from the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) on the cat food packaging stating that the food is balanced and meets cats’ nutritional requirements.

• Feed your cat at dawn and dusk, as those are the times they would normally hunt for food in nature. Most cats will eat only as much as they need, so you can leave the food out. However, if your pet is not a very good judge of that, always feed them at a specific time and then put all the food away until the next meal.

• On average, a cat's ideal daily intake is about 200 calories, although the number of calories depends on the cat's age, size, and lifestyle. Your cat's vet will tell you exactly how much your pet should eat in a day.

• If your pet's favorite food is not sold anymore, you need to know how to best change your cat's food to a new brand and maintain its required nutritional value. Once again, read the labels carefully and consult with the vet.

• Give commercial cat food to your pet, as it is specifically formulated for cats. However, if you wish to feed your cat the food that you've prepared, talk to your vet first.

• Make sure your cat has its own food bowl and wash it regularly to prevent the build-up of harmful bacteria.

• Always make sure that your cat has access to fresh drinking water, especially during hot months. If their diet consists mostly of wet food (moisture content of about 75% to 78% water) cats will drink less water, but they still need it. In comparison, the water content in dry foods ranges from 6% to 10%.

Cat nutrition don'ts

• Avoid giving your cat cow's milk and raw eggs. Cats are lactose intolerant. Aside from the risk of salmonella, frequent consumption of raw eggs can cause skin inflammation, hair loss, and poor hair growth to your cat.

• Don't overdo it with raw meat. While raw meat is the closest to what they'd eat in the wild, it also may contain bacteria such as salmonella, listeria, E. coli, or parasites. Take very good care when you're feeding your cat raw meat.

• Don't give your cat raw fish. Raw fish contains an enzyme that destroys thiamine (vitamin B1), whose deficiency causes serious neurological problems in cats, even leading to convulsions and, in the worst-case scenario, coma.

• Don't provide vitamins and supplements to your cat if they already have a balanced diet. A vitamin overdose for cats and humans alike is dangerous just like a vitamin deficiency. If your cat has some health issues, then vitamins, supplements, and cat nutrition go hand in hand, with the vet's approval, of course.

• Don't give your cat your leftovers or too many treats between meals. Most human food is not nutritious to cats, and too many treats will surely lead to obesity. How many treats is optimal? Between 5% and 10% of their daily calory intake.

• Don't let the wet food sit in your cat's bowl for too long. After an hour, there will be too much bacteria, causing your cat digestive problems.

If your cat ever becomes overweight, it is partly due to an unbalanced diet and partly due to lack of activity. Your vet will study your cat's case and recommend the best course of action.

Click HERE to see what products we recommend or on the pictures and the links in the article to see where it takes you.

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

Cat Vaccinations 101: Everything You Need to Know

We can all agree that vaccines are vital as they keep some of the worst diseases at bay. When it comes to cats vaccines, there are many widespread rumours on their side effects. This has left many cat owners asking whether to or not to vaccinate their furry friends. To put your mind at ease, here is everything you need to know about cat vaccinations.

Are Vaccines Necessary?

Vaccines protect your cat against fatal and contagious diseases. Vaccines also help your cat fight future infections as they trigger immune responses.  Cat vaccinations have saved many felines from some of the worst diseases. They have also rendered some past common diseases rare. So yes, vaccines are an absolute necessity if you want to keep your pet in good health.

There are two types of cat’s vaccines:

• Core vaccines

• Non-core vaccines

When you choose a kitty from us you will have peace of mind that we include in all our cats age-appropriate vaccinations, plus:

• First year’s Rabies vaccine

• Spay/neuter

• Testing for feline diseases

• Microchip

• De-flea/De-worm treatments

• TICA paperwork

Related: How To Maintain Good Dental Hygiene For Your Pets

Core Vaccines for Cats

The core or mandatory cat vaccines are provided by the Feline Vaccination Advisory Panel after regular evaluations and research on feline health and recent developments. Currently, there are four core cat vaccinations, as explained below:

Rabies – Rabies is a highly contagious disease. There is also no cure for this disease which is why your cat needs to get vaccinated. Your cat will get rabies from a bite from an infected mammal. The illness incubation period is around two months, after which your cat will exhibit signs of disorientation and aggression. The rabies vaccine is mandatory in many regions, and it is vital as it keeps you and your pet safe.

FVRCP Vaccine - The Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus and Panleukopenia vaccine is also referred to as distemper. This vaccine is a three in one vaccine that protects your furry friend from feline distemper.  

This vaccine combines the below three vaccines:

1. FPV vaccine - The FPV vaccine protects your cat from the Feline panleukopenia disease, which is highly infectious. The early signs of this disease are low appetite, lack of energy, diarrhoea and vomiting. The illness also lowers your cat white blood cells as the illness attacks your feline’s bone marrow and immune system. 

2. FHV-1 Vaccine - This vaccine protects your cat from the Feline herpesvirus that causes a severe respiratory infection that affects your cat’s throat and nose. Some cats will not exhibit any symptoms, although they act as carriers and will spread the virus to others.  The symptoms of this illness include nasal congestion, uncontrollable sneezing, blepharospasm, conjunctivitis and fever. Kittens and pregnant cats are at a higher risk of getting this illness. The disease is common in homes with multiple cats. There’s some good information on what paperwork you’ll need when you get a cat and want health insurance here. 

3. FCV Vaccine - This vaccine protects your cats from the Feline calicivirus. The calicivirus affects your cat’s tract, mouth, intestines and musculoskeletal system. It's highly infectious and can occur in cats of all ages. However, kittens aged six weeks and above are at a higher risk of being infected. It commonly occurs among kittens that live in multi-cat homes and households that are poorly ventilated. 

Non-Core Cat Vaccinations

Some cat vaccines aren’t mandatory, but your vet will recommend them if your pet is susceptible to a particular disease. Here are some of the optional cat vaccinations.

FeLV Vaccine - The FeLV vaccine protects your cat from Feline Leukemia. Cats with this illness often become anaemic and are likely to suffer from other infections due to reduced immunity. Feline leukaemia is passed from one cat to another through blood, saliva, urine and faeces. Kittens can also contract the disease through their mother's infected milk. Even a healthy cat may spread the virus as cats with the infection often go through a regressive stage. 

Bordetella -The Bordetella virus causes upper respiratory abnormalities in your cat and dog. It is spread through the air or contact with an infected pet. This vaccination is often recommended for pets that visit a groomer or cats that board or visit daycares. 

Feline immunodeficiency (FIV) - Feline immunodeficiency is a viral infection that makes your cat’s immune system weak, leading to secondary infections. The disease is passed from cat to cat through deep bites from an infected mother to her kitten. It is often recommended to cats who play outdoors as this is where aggressive territorial fights often occur. 

Chlamydophila Felis - The Feline chlamydophila disease is a type of bacterial infection that causes conjunctivitis and ocular infections. Infection is usually through direct contact with an infected cat. Symptoms are seen a few days after infection in the form of watery eye discharge, discomfort and pain in the eye. Your sick cat may also have a fever and nasal discharge. If untreated, the infected cat sheds the bacteria in the form of ocular secretions infecting other healthy cats.

Cat Vaccines Adverse Effects

Every vaccine comes with some risk. However, the adverse effects of vaccination in cats are less than 1%. Such effects are also mild in the form of fever, lethargy and inflammation.

Sarcoma, which is the growth of a cancerous mass at the place of vaccination is one of the most debated cat vaccination effects. Sarcoma is rare as it occurs in 1-10 of every 10,000 vaccinated cats. 

Nonetheless, it’s good to monitor your cat’s injection site for any swelling. If the swelling persists for more than a month after vaccination, surgery can be done to treat it.

Vaccinations are necessary for your pet. They keep them healthy and also trigger your feline’s immunity. Your vet will help with a suitable vaccination schedule for your pet based on their age, vaccination history and their exposure to various diseases.

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

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

Secondhand Smoke and Pets

Those who have pets understand that our animals’ happiness and wellbeing is of paramount importance. But often we do not realize that our own habits can affect the health of our favorite animals. By understanding the facts of second-hand smoke, we can find out how best to protect those we love, and what we can do to prevent unnecessary health issues in our pets, caused by the toxins in second-hand smoke. 

 What is Second-Hand Smoke? 

Second-hand smoke is the smoke or fumes that occur as a consequence of smoking cigarettes or other tobacco products. Often referred to as ‘Passive Smoking’, this smoke is often invisible, so no matter how much you attempt to control the fumes you are producing as a bi-product when you smoke, the largest percentage will still be inhaled by those around you. 

 Second-Hand Smoke: The Facts

Health guidelines around smoking and the dangers of second-hand smoke are well published.

The truth is:

-       That secondhand smoke causes approximately 7,330 deaths from lung cancer, and 33, 950 deaths from heart failure each year. 

-       All exposure to second-hand smoke carries a risk- there is no risk-free level of exposure, and;

-       It only takes 20-30 minutes to cause excess blood clotting increasing the risk of a heart attack.

-       It severely affects those with asthma, leading to more frequent and severe asthma attacks.

-       More minor problems are ear infections and respiratory infections such as bronchitis. 

-       Second-hand smoke can lead to what is known as ‘third-hand smoke’, which is a cocktail of toxins that cling to carpets, upholstery and clothes and can be a hazard to infants and children. 

-       Second-hand smoke stays in a room for 5 hours, meaning one cigarette can cause 5 hours of harmful toxins in one room. 

  Effects of Second-Hand Smoke on Pets

As previously stated, there is no risk-free level of passive smoke exposure, and this also applies to pets. Extensive research has found that pets are even more susceptible to second-hand smoke-related problems than humans. 

-       Exposure in dogs has been linked to eye irritations, infections, greater occurrence of allergies, and respiratory problems (including lung tumors). 

-       Cats are likely to even more likely to develop problems than dogs, as they meticulously groom themselves using their tongues. This means that they can ingest the tar, smoke and carcinogens as they land on their fur and surfaces around the house causing throat and lung diseases and cancers. 

-       Other common household pets are birds, who can have their eyesight affected and gain respiratory problems from second-hand smoke. Nicotine residue on a smoker’s hand when touching the bird may also cause skin problems. 

-       Reptiles such as snakes and lizards are also commonly kept as pets. Their lungs are smaller and more delicate than that of mammals, and therefore can become more irritated by second-hand smoke and develop lung and respiratory problems and diseases.

You can find the full resource on smoking around pets here.

 Solutions

Clearly the effects on our beloved pets can be detrimental, and so naturally, we would want to reduce these effects. Some ways you can help lower the risks for your animals are:

-       Smoking outside with the door closed can help prevent the damaging particles from collecting on upholstery and pet fur. 

-       Never leave ashtrays or cigarette butts where pets can get hold of them 

-       Always wash your hands after smoking to reduce contact issues

-       Regularly clean carpets and upholstery, steaming them where you can, to remove carcinogens and toxic particles. 

How to Get Help Quitting

Whilst the aforementioned preventative measures can help, the best way to avoid health problems for your pet from second-hand smoking is to quit. This can feel like a daunting task but there are many services available to help. Smokefree.gov is a government scheme to help you quit effectively, to help your health and the health of your pet.

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

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

How To Maintain Good Dental Hygiene For Your Pets

Pets are great companions. While it may be fun having them around, things can get ugly when they have bad dental hygiene. If you’re a pet owner, you know how unpleasant it is to have a pet with bad breath. Many people assume that bad breath is normal for pets, but in truth, it can be a sign of gum or periodontal disease.

Just like your health, your pets' healthcare and wellness are also important. Studies show that more than 80% of pets over three years old have periodontal disease. That's quite a large percentage for an easily preventable disease. 

Here are some tips you can use to keep your pet's dental hygiene in check:

Brush Their Teeth Regularly 

It's not the most fun thing to do, but hey, it'll help prevent a lot of problems down the road. Brushing your pet's teeth is the first step in maintaining good dental hygiene. You don't have to brush them daily—two or three times a week will work just fine. Plaque starts accumulating after some hours of brushing, and that's why brushing is important to prevent the over-accumulation of plaque.  

When brushing, use a soft-bristled pet toothbrush or a finger brush and a pet toothpaste. Concentrate on the outer surface of the teeth and be sure to reach the teeth in the back of the mouth. Be sure to use both toothbrush and toothpaste made specifically for pets. Human toothpaste can be harmful to pets if swallowed.  

At first, some pets might be resistant to brushing, but you can start slow as you train them to tolerate the process. It’s even better if you start when they’re younger. Over time, they’ll get used to brushing regularly. 

Feed Them The Right Diet 

The foods your pets eat play a key role in their dental hygiene. Homemade meals are good, but they’re not always the best choice for your pet's dental hygiene. Avoid feeding your pets toxic foods. A generally balanced meal is the best option for keeping their dental hygiene healthy. Kibble is a great option for most pets. Their ingredients help minimize plaque and tartar accumulation. 

There's also a debate on choosing between canned (wet) food or dry food for pets. Both are okay, but dry food is generally the better option because they keep the teeth healthy by reducing plaque and tartar accumulation. Canned foods may cause plaque and tartar accumulation, which can later lead to more serious dental problems. On the brighter side, canned foods help keep your pets hydrated, which is something that dry food can't do. 

Dental Treats 

Dental treats such as rawhide chews, dental bones, and dental biscuits for dogs, and dental chews for cats can help reduce the plaque and tartar accumulation. Dental treats mechanically scrub off the plaque and tartar from the pet's teeth, and they can be great substitutes for brushing teeth.  

However, you need to be careful when giving treats. Avoid very hard and cut bones to minimize the risk of dental fractures, and match a treat according to your pet's size. Remember, swallowing excessively large chunks of treats can cause choking. The general rule of thumb for treats is that, the smaller the pet, the smaller the treat. 

Dental Toys  

Dental toys are not edible, but they’re used to keep your pets busy and engaged. Chewing dental toys can help remove bacteria from the pet's mouth. Dental toys can also be used to distract them from chewing items they’re not supposed to. Some good dental toys include durables, plaque attackers, and dental balls. 

Regular Dental Checkup 

Your pet won't inform you when they have dental issues, and it's up to you to figure out when there's a problem. Look out for these signs of dental disease. 

• Bad breath 

• Bleeding gums 

• Visible yellow or brown tartar 

• Losing teeth 

• Bloody saliva 

• Difficulty chewing  

• Blood left on chew toys 

If you pay close attention, you’ll also notice a behavior change in your pet, which can be a sign that they’re not healthy. Be sure also to seek professional pet teeth cleaning services annually for a more comprehensive checkup.

Wrapping Up

There comes a time when you need professional help for your pet. This is when the situation has gotten out of hand, and not even home remedies can help. Professional vets are more experienced and they’ll help ensure the health and wellness of your pets. They’ll also conduct a thorough dental examination to figure out the problem, and prescribe the necessary medication.

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

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

Pros and Cons of having Cats and Babies

Living with a feline pet and a baby can be fun in so many ways. At the same time, it can be dangerous for both of them. Let's take a look at the ups and downs of having cats and babies in your home at the same time.

Pros of having cats and babies

Cats are usually easy to maintain, so having one when you bring your baby home from the hospital will not make your list of responsibilities so much longer than it would be without a cat in sight. Also, since you will not go through too much trouble helping your cat adjust to a new home if you happen to be changing houses while waiting for a new family member, you will probably not have too many problems introducing your baby to the cat. Now, what are the benefits of having your feline and your kid living together?

Cats can be affectionate

Stroking a cat is known to have a calming effect, so having a cat in your home can help your baby feel better when sad or upset. With a cat in their home, your child will grow up with the most sincere and affectionate friend which will help them boost their self-confidence.

They are fun to watch

Cats are explorers so watching them play with toys or any other objects in your home can be a great way to keep your baby entertained. They will play with almost anything and they will inspect every item you bring back home with you. That is why our moving professionals such as evolutionmovingdfw.com always advise cat-owners to keep an eye on their pets while packing boxes for a move or storage since cats tend to play inside them.

Babies react to movement and that is why pets always attract their attention. Some studies even show that children who are raised in homes with pets are less likely to become depressed when they grow up. The presence of a cat in your home will make your new baby happier!

Babies and cats can be perfect playmates

As soon as your newborn starts to interact with people and animals around them, the cat will become their best friend. The good news is that they are not likely to get tired of each other any time soon. For your baby, the cat is their first friend and they grow up knowing that they can always rely on them for love and support. Plus, they are a great source of entertainment.

Children with cats have a better immune system

Pets are great for developing the immune system in children. Children who live with pets are less likely to suffer colds and infections. Even though having a dog is a bit more beneficial in terms of a child's health, kids who grow up with cats also develop immunity to certain illnesses. Plus, the positive effect on a child's mental health is undeniable.

Cats help manage pests

We all know that cats are rodents' worst enemies. OK, you might not have a problem with mice and rats in your home, but cats are also successful in fighting insects and they can be found in pretty much any household. Some of them can be a real hazard to your baby, but if you have a cat, there is no reason for you to worry!

Cons of having cats and babies

Now, let's see some negative sides to owning a cat while being a parent of a very young child.

Some cats tend to shed a lot which can be a problem for children with allergies

The longer the hair in cats the more they will shed, which is not a good thing when you have a baby in that same home. The fact that cat allergies are twice as common as dog allergies, doesn’t help a lot. Make sure you do your research and consult professionals on the subject.

Cats bite too! And they scratch!

Your furniture is at constant risk of getting damaged with a feline pet inside your home, but unfortunately, so are your children. Cats can accidentally scratch your baby while they play with them. It also happens that they bite when they feel insecure around humans. Sometimes they will even do it when they are not in the mood for stroking and cuddling. A bite or a scratch marks here and there won't put your life at risk, but should you risk getting your precious little baby hurt by your pet? Of course not! That's why you should never leave the two of them alone - not even for a second. And, avoid leaving your baby in a swing or on the floor with your cat around.

Some accidents may happen even though your cat is not around

Every responsible cat-owner would try to make their home as cat-friendly as possible even before they bring their feline friend home from the pet store. In some homes, people install cat flaps on their back doors to help their cat access the backyard or home more easily. However, such flaps might be a hazard for your crawling baby. They can get stuck in there or hurt themselves trying to get out. They can even crawl out of home and put their lives in serious danger. Again, there is no need for you to worry if you don't leave your baby unattended which, you will agree, is a matter of common sense whether you own a pet or not.

Cats can be a health hazard if they soil your home

Cats are vulnerable to various infections that can easily be transmitted to a baby if a cat urinates all around the house. But if yours is trained to use a litter box or to go outside when they need to do their business, your baby is safe.

As you can see, having cats and babies at home has its positive and negative sides. Luckily, the negative ones can be either prevented or diminished, so with a little bit of extra care, you will be able to enjoy sharing home with your favorite animal and your child.

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

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

Common Feeding Mistakes in Cats

Diet plays an integral role in the overall health and performance of cats. A balanced diet guards’ cats from different diseases and helps her in growing well.

 Feeding management is one of the critical components in keeping your Scat healthy and active. Feeding mistakes by the owners can lead to several health complications in cats. Many cat owners ask different questions like how to feed cats? What are the various feeding mistakes? What are the health risks associated with lousy feeding habits?

 Here, we will highlight some common feeding mistakes that cat owners commit to preventing health complications in cats.

 A cat cannot speak and tell you her problems unless she gets sick. There are some common feeding mistakes that you must avoid to keep your cat sound.

 WHY OVERFEEDING IS A BAD THING FOR YOUR CAT?

One of the serious mistakes which cat owners make is overfeeding. Some cat owners don’t bother monitoring the feeding frequency and partition the cat's meal. This is the biggest issue. When you offer a cat her meal at once, Remember, this is the instinct of cats to eat everything. If a cat sees a bowl full of food, she will eat it all in one sitting. This thing leads to obesity in cats.

According to Joe Bartges, professor of medicine and nutrition, at the University of Tennessee, «Obesity is the primary nutritional disorder in felines. Moreover, this has been scientifically documented that obesity is a gateway to other health complications in cats such as diabetes, urinary tract, and joint problems in cats. »

According to Marilyn Krieger, a registered cat behavior consultant and owner of the cat coach in the San Francisco Bay area explains that free feeding is one of the significant mistakes that cat parents should avoid. As free food is a substantial reason for weight gain in cats. Instead of this, cats should be fed several times a day, and they should do some struggle while getting food.

Composition of cat’s diet, exercise, and feeding frequency are three main things that are literally useful in keeping the cat’s weight in control.

 Overfeeding is one of the biggest mistakes that cat parents make. It influences cat’s health badly. It is essential to manage your cat’s weight and get a well-designed diet plan after consulting a registered vet/pet nutritionist.

 Feeding frequency matters a lot in maintaining the weight of your beloved feline friend. According to Cornell feline health center, it is acceptable to feed an adult cat once or twice a day with a few exceptions.

 NOTE: Other factors such as physical activity, breed, size, age, health status must also be kept in mind while defining a feeding frequency and diet plan for your cat.

 Always divide the meal of your cat into parts. Don’t feed everything at once. Regular monitoring of your cat's body condition score (BCS) also helps you manage weight issues in her.

 WHY SHOULD YOU CHOOSE AUTOMATIC CAT FEEDERS?

Automatic cat feeders help in programming the feeding frequency of your cat. If you work in an office or go somewhere else, leaving your cat home alone, then having an automatic cat feeder is an excellent idea. Automatic cat feeders have a timer, and you can also feed various instructions accordingly, like when to feed your cat? How many diets to feed? How many times do you want to feed your cat?

Due to these all-important features, automatic cat feeders are becoming so popular around the globe. According to ThePets, when choosing an automatic feeder, you need to know that it gives your cat a calculated amount of food during set hours of the day. This all helps in maintaining your cat’s weight and overall well-being.

WHY ARE TOO MANY TREATS NOT GOOD FOR CATS?

Giving treats to your cats is an excellent thing. It helps in strengthening the bond between you and your feline friend. Additionally, treats also play an important role in correcting several bad behaviors in cats. But a responsible cat parent should keep another aspect of the story in his mind. Offering too many treats, especially with high sugar content/calories, lead to several health complications in cats such as obesity and diabetes. So, this is highly recommended to give your cats treats on special occasions and make a proper schedule. Avoid giving too many treats unnecessarily.

NOTE: This is also important to check the ingredients of any treatment you offer to your cat. This is essential to keep your cat safe from health complications.

HOW TOO MUCH MILK INTAKE CAUSES PROBLEMS IN CATS?

Many cat owners feed a lot of milk to their cats. This is also considered as one of the significant feeding mistakes. Remember, milk is suitable for kittens, not for adult cats. The reason behind this is the lactase deficiency in adult cats. Lactase is an enzyme that digests the lactose (milk sugar) to simple glucose monomers. This is why; cats cannot utilize milk and milk products efficiently. So, giving too much liquid to your cat can put her into gastrointestinal troubles.

A responsible owner must be conscious while giving frozen treats made up of milk to his cat, such as ice creams, frozen desserts, etc. These things can also cause lactose intolerance in your cat. So, always be careful and stay in touch with your veterinarian.

HOW SUDDEN CHANGE IN CAT’S DIET BAD FOR HER?

This is another major mistake that cat parents make. Sudden changes in a cat's diet make her sick and lead to a variety of medical complications. This is always recommended to make gradual changes in the diet of cats. Whenever you switch to a new menu for your cat, kindly introduce that slowly. Your cat will accept it with time.

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

Until our next cat convo

-MARTIN

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