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Author: Shelley

  • Which Pet Vacuum is Best for Your Budget? Bissell CleanView vs. Hoover WindTunnel 2

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    When you’re a pet owner on a budget, finding a vacuum that can handle the endless pet hair, dirt, and dander can feel like a challenge. Luckily, there are affordable options that get the job done without breaking the bank. Two popular budget-friendly choices for pet owners are the Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet and the Hoover WindTunnel 2 Rewind Pet.

    Both offer solid suction power, specialized pet tools, and features that make cleaning up after your furry friends a little easier. But how do you decide which one’s the best fit for your home? Let’s break down the features of each to help you make an informed choice!

    Product Available on Amazon

    The Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet is an upright vacuum that’s perfect for homes with pets, especially if you’re looking for a no-frills, budget-friendly option. One of its standout features is the OnePass Technology, which allows you to clean more in a single pass, saving you time. It also comes with a pet hair spooling system, which helps make the cleanup even easier—no more tangled hair stuck in the brush roll!

    The swivel steering makes it super easy to maneuver around furniture and tight spaces, and the multi-level filtration traps dust and allergens, making it a good choice for pet owners with allergies. It’s lightweight, and despite being an affordable option, it has plenty of suction power to tackle pet hair on both carpets and hard floors.

    Product Available on Amazon

    On the other hand, the Hoover WindTunnel 2 Rewind Pet is another fantastic budget option that provides solid suction and specialized tools for pet hair. This vacuum comes with the WindTunnel 2 Technology, which creates two channels of suction to lift and remove debris from your floors. It also features a pet turbo tool that’s perfect for cleaning upholstery, stairs, and other pet-prone areas.

    One of the best features of this vacuum is its auto-rewind cord, meaning you won’t have to spend time manually wrapping the cord up when you’re done cleaning. It’s also equipped with HEPA filtration, which is great for trapping pet dander and dust—helping reduce allergens in the home. Plus, the vacuum is very easy to use and store, making it a convenient option for those who don’t want to deal with any complicated setup.

    When comparing the two, both vacuums perform well for pet owners on a budget, but there are some differences that could sway your decision. If you’re looking for a vacuum that makes cleanup as simple as possible, the Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet is a great choice. Its pet hair spooling system eliminates the need for manual brush roll maintenance, which is especially convenient if you have a lot of pets or long-haired animals. The swivel steering also makes it easier to navigate tight spots, which is helpful in a house with furniture and other obstacles.

    If you prefer a vacuum with more specialized attachments for detailed cleaning, the Hoover WindTunnel 2 Rewind Pet may be your go-to. The turbo tool is ideal for removing hair from upholstery and stairs, and the auto-rewind cord feature adds an extra layer of convenience. It also provides excellent suction power and features HEPA filtration, making it a good option if you’re concerned about allergens.

    In the end, if you’re looking for a vacuum that simplifies pet hair cleanup with minimal hassle, the Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet is probably your best bet. However, if you need a vacuum with versatile tools for detailed cleaning and a bit more suction power, the Hoover WindTunnel 2 Rewind Pet is a solid, budget-friendly choice. Both vacuums are effective at getting rid of pet hair without breaking the bank, so it comes down to which features matter most to you.

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    Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

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    You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • Throw Away the Retractable Leashes

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    Working in the veterinary field, we see a wide variety of collars and leashes used. Carriers — they come in all forms, too, though this article is just going to be about those awful retractable leashes.

    I understand the point of them. You can allow your dog to roam farther away from you than if he or she were on a short leash. However, I don’t believe that makes up for all of their downsides. I have also seen many unfortunate incidents involving retractable leashes.

    Here are some things that can happen when you use a retractable leash.

    The leashes can go out so far, and then they break. 

    At this point, your dog is pretty far away from you, and you may struggle to catch up with him or her. If your dog chases after a rabbit or other animal, you may have no chance of keeping him or her close to you.

    Your dog could also jerk against the leash and hurt his or her neck. 

    Stopping suddenly while running could really injure your dog’s neck. He or she may become stiff and unable to move easily, though it could also severely injure his or her spinal cord or break your dog’s neck. Some dogs have become paralyzed due to the jerk that occurs at the end of the leash.

    These leashes can also hurt people. 

    Many people have gotten wrapped up in retractable leashes. This can trip them. Others get rope burn from the leash rubbing against their legs.

    Even worse, the leash can continue, which could quickly deteriorate the whole situation. Some dogs will wrap themselves around a person multiple times without realizing it!

    Because the leash keeps going, you don’t really have control over your dog, and he or she may get into another pet’s personal space. 

    When out walking, your dog might get into another dog’s face before you can even react. Then, when you try to pull him or her away, it isn’t very easy. You will have to pull and pull to get the leash shorter before you can get your dog under control. If he or she is in a fight, you are just wasting valuable time fighting with the leash.

    When you take your dog to the veterinarian, it may come into contact with a variety of other animals in the clinic. He or she may get a cat all wound up, simply because your dog is too close for comfort.

    Your dog may also get away from you easily. 

    He or she may jump into the street or run right into another person because you don’t have any control over your dog.

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    Retractable leashes, though the concept is a good idea, really aren’t the best for any dog. They often break once your dog gets to the end of the leash. Your dog could take off after something, and you could lose him or her. Your dog could also hurt him or herself with a retractable leash. Many dogs have broken their neck when they jerk at the end of the line. Some even become paralyzed by them!

    Also, since the leash keeps going, you don’t really have any control over your dog. He or she can run away from you, get into another pet’s face, and even pull you over. Your dog could also wrap it around another person, causing him or her to fall. Rope burns are also familiar with these leashes.

    If you are a serious dog owner, you should invest in a good leash and discard your retractable one for good. When I was training my dog, I used a simple six-foot leash, similar to this one from Amazon. Chewy also offers a variety of leashes for you to choose from. 

    Product Available on Amazon

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    Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

    ***

    It is also important that you understand that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • Tips to Keep Your Pets Safe this Halloween

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    Halloween is an exciting time for many. Children love to get dressed up. Many pet parents enjoy dressing up their beloved pets, too. That being said, costumes and candy can be quite dangerous for our favorite companions.

    Want to keep your pet safe? Here are some tips to do so.

    Be careful when it comes to Halloween treats. 

    Though most people know that chocolate can be dangerous to pets, the truth is that it is not the only thing that you shouldn’t feed your pets. Some bubble gums have Xylitol, which can be fatal to dogs. Raisins are also toxic and can damage your pet’s kidneys.

    Halloween costumes can also pose a danger to pets. 

    Many costumes can be pretty complicated and may look like a chew toy for your beloved dog. There are also various extras, such as swords and other decorative items. Not only can these be harmful if eaten, but they may also cause internal injury or even illness.

    Decorations can be just as bad for them. 

    You should never have lit candles around your pets. If one knocks over the pumpkin, you have to worry about a fire. Other decorations can be harmful if eaten. This may include fake cobwebs, blood, or even rubber eyeballs. Glow sticks can also be dangerous if chewed on! Candy wrappers can also become hazardous if left around for your dog or cat to get into.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    When choosing a costume, choose carefully. 

    Always buy a costume that fits your pet well. You want to ensure that your pet feels comfortable in it and can move around reasonably well.

    You also want to ensure that your pet can see well and breathe comfortably in any costume you put on them. If you plan on taking your pet out trick-or-treating, make sure that he or she is accustomed to the costume before spending hours in it.

    Know your pet’s comfort level. 

    You need to know how your pet will be before Halloween. If your pet doesn’t like strangers, you may have to lock him or her up in a bedroom so that you can hand out candy to all the children who come. You may even want to secure any outside cats that are easily startled by commotion.

    Make it hard to lose your pet. 

    With children coming and going, and a lot happening, many pets become anxious and may escape from the house. For this reason, your pet needs to have a collar with your contact information on it so they can be easily returned. You may want to consider getting a microchip, which will help any lost pets find their way home.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Though you may be super excited for Halloween, it can be a difficult time for your pets. Halloween candy and even wrappers can be toxic to pets, as can many of the decorations people love, including fake blood and cobwebs.

    You may even be excited to dress up your pet, but you need to choose carefully. You want to buy a costume that fits well and is comfortable. If you plan to take your dog trick-or-treating, it’s also a good idea to get them used to it before the day.

    You also need to be careful when you have trick-or-treaters come to your home. You may want to lock your dog in a bedroom so that he or she doesn’t escape. That being said, a collar with some identification and a microchip is always a good idea.

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    Please note, the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • Tired of Your Cat’s Litter Box Mess? Here’s What Helped Me Clean It Up (Literally)

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    Let’s be honest—owning a cat is amazing, but the litter box situation? Not so much. I love my furball, but I do not love the daily scatter of litter outside the box, the mystery pee puddles, or the way the smell sometimes lingers longer than it should. If you’ve ever stepped barefoot onto stray litter (worst sensation ever), you know the struggle.

    After some trial and error (and a few too many deep cleans), I finally found a trio of simple products that actually helped me keep things tidy without stressing my cat out.

    A Covered Litter Box
     This was a game-changer. My cat was skeptical at first, but once she realized it was her own private bathroom, she was all in. The cover helps keep litter inside where it belongs and contains some of the smell. Bonus: it’s way less of an eyesore in the corner of the room.

    Product Available on Amazon

    A Litter Box Mat
     I used to sweep every day—no joke. Now, the mat catches most of the litter that would’ve ended up on the floor (or in my bed, because cats). It’s like a welcome mat, but for paws. Shake it out once a week and boom—way less mess.

    This is a basic mat that is available on Amazon.

    Product Available on Amazon

    This product actually traps litter, making it an even better option. 

    Product Available on Amazon

    Low-Stick Litter
     This one surprised me. I didn’t realize how much regular litter was clumping to the bottom of the box until I switched. The low-stick kind makes scooping a breeze and keeps the box fresher, longer. Less scraping, less stink, happier human.

    Product Available on Amazon

    If your cat’s litter box setup is driving you up the wall, try this little combo. It made a huge difference for me—and my floor.

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    Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

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    You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

  • Red Flags When It Comes to Finding a Puppy

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    I recently wrote an article about using ethical breeders. If you are trying to figure out why you would want to go this route, you can read my article about it right here.

    If you have already decided to go this route, and you are looking for an ethical breeder, you should read my article about finding an ethical breeder.

    That being said, it can be challenging to distinguish between an ethical breeder and one that is merely breeding for profit. For this reason, you need to look for red flags. Just like you would end a relationship over a red flag, you should do the same with a breeder.

    Here are some red flags to avoid.

    Breeders who don’t do any health testing. 

    Good breeders want to ensure that their puppies are of the highest quality, and they aren’t afraid to spend the money to prove that! They do as much health testing as required for the breed, so that you know that you are getting high-quality puppies.

    They are also unlikely to register their dogs. 

    Whether you are looking for registered dogs, choosing parents who are registered helps you feel better about the puppies you are selecting. You will know that they come from good stock.

    Puppies that end up in pet stores are often from backyard breeders. 

    No reputable breeder would sell their puppies to pet stores to get into the hands of anyone who wants a puppy! They will want to take the time to ensure that they put their puppies into the right hands.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Fancy websites should also be avoided. 

    Many websites are full of puppies for sale, many of which are bred without any thought other than making some money!

    The same goes for breeders who sell puppies before they are eight weeks old. 

    Puppies need time with their mom and other puppies before being sold. In fact, some smaller dogs are kept with their parents until they are twelve weeks old.

    They won’t allow you to visit them in their environment. 

    You can learn a great deal about puppies by observing their parents. If you aren’t able to at least see the mom, you might want to be wary of the puppies.

    You should be able to meet the mother of the puppies, at the very least, before choosing one. Getting to know and meet the mom is a great way to learn more about your puppies. If you can’t see her, you might want to avoid them.

    Don’t trust those who breed for smaller sizes. 

    Many fad breeders breed “teacups,” which actively promote runts. These smaller dogs may not be as healthy as their standard relatives. They may struggle to keep their blood sugar levels stable, which can lead to seizures and other health issues.

    The same can be said for those who breed for special colors. 

    If the breed that you are looking at doesn’t have specific colors, you should avoid getting those puppies. These breeders attempt to breed “flashy” and “rare” colors solely because they can earn more money doing so.

    You may also want to avoid mixed-breed puppies. 

    True and ethical breeders will not want to breed two different breeds together.

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    Though you may be looking for something in particular when it comes to your next dog, the truth is that you have to be careful when buying puppies. There are many red flags that you should avoid. You should avoid buying puppies from dogs that are not registered or those that haven’t undergone any health testing. It is a good idea to stay away from pet stores, as well as fancy websites. You should also avoid some of the fads that are popular, such as different colors, smaller sizes, and mixed-breed dogs that are sold as purebreds!

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    Please note, the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • Tips for New Cat Owners

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    Though most people think about puppies and dogs when they want to get their first pet, the truth is that cats can make excellent companions. They can provide hours of entertainment. They can be good at cuddling, but they are just as happy roaming around the house on their own. Even better, they aren’t as needy as dogs, so you can go away for several hours without worrying about your dog going to the bathroom in your home.

    That being said, if you are a new cat owner, you may be unsure about caring for one. Here are some tips to help.

    Your new cat should have his or her own space (or at least a place to get away from everyone else). 

    You may want to provide your cat with a safe place to eat where they won’t be bothered. Cats also love to be up high, so if you can get a cat tree or other areas where he or she can get away when needed.

    A scratching post is also necessary. 

    Cats need to scratch, and if you don’t have anything for him or her to scratch, your cat will scratch your furniture. It is much better to have a scratching post or cardboard boxes than deal with ruined furniture.

    If you’re considering a scratching post, you may want to explore the options available on Amazon, such as the one shown below. Chewy also offers plenty of scratching posts for you to choose from. 

    Product Available on Amazon

    Cats don’t drink as much as they should, so make sure that you keep an eye on how much your cat drinks. 

    It’s always a good idea to have multiple bowls of water spread throughout your home to ensure your cat is getting enough fluids. You may also want to consider getting a fountain, as most people prefer to drink running water rather than standing water.

    I recently wrote an article on getting cats to drink enough. If you need some more tips, you can check it out right here.

    You will want to feed your cat food that is best suited for them. 

    Most people believe that all cats require only dry food, which they leave out all the time. They even opt for the cheapest food available. However, that could be a mistake.

    In fact, dry food leads to obesity. Instead, you should feed your cat canned food. Pate-style food has fewer carbohydrates, which helps your cat stay at a healthy weight. A cat needs one 5.5-ounce can of food a day.

    We recommend Friskee’s pate-style wet food to help with your cat’s water consumption. It is available on Amazon and Chewy.

    Product Available on Amazon and Chewy.

    It is always a good idea to have more litter boxes than you think. 

    You should have at least one more litter box than the number of cats that you have. For one cat, you should have at least two. For two cats, you should have at least three.

    These litter boxes should be spread throughout the house. You may want one in the basement and one in the central area of the house.

    Ensure that you have a veterinarian you can trust. 

    You should never get a pet without having someone you can call in an emergency. To do this, you should have your cat checked at least once a year and keep them up to date on vaccines. Your regular veterinarian may also recommend an emergency clinic where you can go when they are closed.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Most new cat owners are unsure about where to start. However, if you ensure that your cat has a space of their own, where they can retreat when needed, you are off to a good start. You also want to ensure that you purchase a scratching post, a cat tree (if possible), and extra litter boxes. Good food is also essential for good health! You should also have a veterinarian that you can call as you begin your journey of cat ownership.

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    Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

    ***

    It is also important that you understand that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • Pet-Friendly Vacuums Face-Off: Shark Navigator Lift-Away vs. Dyson V11 Animal

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    If you’re a pet owner, you know the struggle of keeping your home free from pet hair, dirt, and dander. It can feel like no matter how often you clean, the fur keeps piling up. That’s why many people end up looking for the best pet-friendly vacuum to make their lives easier. With so many options available, two popular choices tend to come up in conversations: the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional and the Dyson V11 Animal Cordless Vacuum. Both are great options, but they cater to slightly different needs.

    So, how do you decide which one is right for you?

    The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional is a well-loved upright vacuum that brings a lot of power to the table. Its lift-away technology allows you to detach the canister, making it super easy to clean stairs, upholstery, and other hard-to-reach areas. The vacuum features a large dustbin and a HEPA filter, making it perfect for those with allergies, as it traps 99.9% of dust and allergens. This vacuum also has powerful suction, so it’s great for homes with multiple pets that shed a lot. Plus, it’s generally more affordable compared to some other pet-specific vacuums on the market.

    Product Available on Amazon

    On the other hand, the Dyson V11 Animal Cordless Vacuum is a high-end cordless option designed specifically for homes with pets. One of its standout features is its powerful suction and smart technology that adjusts the vacuum’s suction power based on the floor type. Whether you’re vacuuming hardwood, carpet, or tile, the V11 will automatically optimize performance, making it incredibly efficient. Plus, the Dyson V11 is lightweight, making it easy to move around the house or even take up stairs without much hassle. Its larger dustbin and longer battery life (up to 60 minutes of cleaning on a full charge) make it a top choice for anyone looking for more flexibility and power in a vacuum.

    Product Available on Amazon

    When it comes to comparing the two, it really comes down to your preferences. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, versatile option that gives you the convenience of a lift-away canister, the Shark Navigator is a solid choice. It’s excellent for a thorough clean on all surfaces and is especially great for people who need a traditional upright vacuum.

    However, if you want something more high-tech, lightweight, and cordless, the Dyson V11 Animal is hard to beat. It’s ideal for those who want the freedom of cord-free cleaning with the added benefit of intelligent floor detection. It’s perfect for quick cleanups and homes where mobility and convenience are key.

    So, which one should you choose? If you’re on a budget but still want solid performance for pet hair and allergens, the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional is a great option. But if you’re willing to invest a bit more for advanced features, ease of use, and the convenience of a cordless design, the Dyson V11 Animal is likely your best bet. Either way, both are excellent choices for keeping your home fur-free and fresh.

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    Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

    ***

    You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • How to Find an Ethical Breeder

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    I recently wrote an article about why you should look for ethical breeders instead of just backyard breeders. If you haven’t had a chance to read it, you can check it out right here.

    Once you decide to use an ethical breeder, it is time to find one. Here are some tips to help you find the puppy you want from an ethical breeder.

    These breeders will want to ask YOU questions about your background and may even request veterinarian references. 

    Backyard breeders, on the other hand, are likely to be willing to sell a puppy to anyone who wants it. If you show up with cash, you could be going home with your new puppy.

    If you find an ethical breeder, they will be more likely to help match you up with the right dog. 

    To them, it is more essential to pick a puppy that matches your lifestyle than to meet your preferences for sex and color. They will help you with that, but if they find a puppy that would work well for you and your family, they may recommend that you consider this opportunity.

    They may even ask for references because they want to ensure that their puppies are going to the right homes.

    Many breeders want to show off their litters to potential buyers. 

    If you are looking for an ethical breeder, you will want to be able to stop by and see how the puppies are doing. Although puppies can be messy, they should look clean and healthy when you visit. You should also ensure that the mother appears healthy.

    They are proud of the dogs and puppies they have and will work to ensure that the puppies they sell are ready to go! 

    Many breeders spend a significant amount of time with their puppies, gaining extensive knowledge about them. They often start training and socializing them, so that they are not fearful in the future. They quickly learn which ones are suited for pets and which ones work well in other types of homes.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    So, when you decide that you want a dog, they will ask you what you are looking for so that they can match you up with the right dog for your family and lifestyle. 

    If you are more active and looking for a dog to take on hikes, you will need a different dog than one that will lie beside you while you work and watch television.

    Long-time breeders may have a waiting list. 

    If you find a breeder with a waiting list, they have likely produced a high volume of quality puppies, which brings people back for more. Although you do not need to find a breeder that has been doing it for years, you can feel better knowing that many people have been coming back for more puppies.

    You may also be required to sign a contract when you purchase a puppy. 

    In the contract, they may want to know what you plan to do with your dog, whether it will be a show dog or a pet. The breeder may require you to spay or neuter your pet at a certain age, because they don’t want to support backyard breeders. Most breeders will have a clause where they will want you to return the dog to them, instead of getting rid of him or her.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    It can be challenging to find a quality and ethical breeder because there are numerous backyard breeders. However, if you find a breeder who is dedicated to his or her breed, as well as his or her dogs and puppies, you have likely found a good breeder.

    These breeders spend a lot of time with their puppies, and they will do whatever they can to ensure that you get the right one for you and your family (as well as your lifestyle). That being said, you may find yourself on a waiting list because a good breeder often has people waiting to find the right puppy!

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    Please note, the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • Tips to Encourage Your Cat To Drink More Water

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    The simple truth is that most cats don’t drink as much water as they should. And as they age and develop an illness, they may need to consume even more water.

    Many owners don’t ever see their cat drinking. In fact, when they do, a problem may already exist. Your cat may be drinking excessively and needs to see a veterinarian.

    For this reason, ensure your cat is drinking enough water. Here are some ways to encourage your cat to drink even more water.

    Change their water every day. 

    Cats are more likely to drink clean water, so it is essential to change it daily, even if it appears untouched.

    Have multiple bowls throughout the house. 

    The more opportunities that your cat has to drink, the more likely he or she will. So, find places throughout your home where you can place water bowls. That way, no matter where your cat is, fresh water is easily accessible.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    If your cat isn’t drinking out of his or her current water bowl, you may want to try others. 

    Many cats are finicky when it comes to their food and water bowls. You may need to try a few types before finding the one that they will use regularly.

    In fact, you may want to try a water fountain. 

    Cats love drinking out of the sink and other places where water runs. For this reason, water fountains are often used to encourage them to drink more. Running water can bring cats to the fountain, and then once they are there, they are likely to drink.

    Pet Cube offers a cat fountain to ensure that your cats stay as hydrated as possible. It purifies the water by removing bacteria, parasites, and other harmful pathogens, ensuring clean and safe hydration, just like you would want for yourself. 

    There are also plenty of options on Amazon and Chewy, if you would prefer to go that route. 

    Another effective way to ensure your cat is drinking enough is by switching to canned food. 

    The truth is that most cats don’t need to eat dry food at all. A canned diet is not only good for weight control, but it also helps them stay hydrated.

    We recommend Friskee’s pate-style wet food to help with your cat’s water consumption. It is available on Amazon and Chewy.

    Product Available on Amazon and Chewy.

    Even better, you may be able to add additional water to your cat’s food. 

    Some owners wet down the dry food in order to help hydrate their cats. If your cat only eats wet food, you can still add some water to it as a way to increase your cat’s fluid intake.

    You could also give them juice from tuna or canned chicken to increase the amount of fluids that they drink. 

    Tuna and canned chicken have a high water content, which can be beneficial for those who aren’t drinking enough water daily.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    Unfortunately, most cats don’t drink enough water in a day. In fact, most pet parents who come into the veterinary clinic don’t see their cat drinking at all! For this reason, you should do everything possible to ensure your cat is getting enough water every day.

    You can do this by refreshing their water every day. Cats are more likely to drink fresh water than water that has been sitting out for a few days! You should also have it easily accessible by placing multiple bowls throughout the house. A fountain may encourage your cat to drink!

    If that isn’t working, you may want to switch to canned food instead of dry. You can also add water to both forms of food to help your cat get enough fluids every day.

    ***

    Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

    ***

    You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • Let’s Talk About It: Cleaning Up Dog Poop (Without Losing Your Mind)

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    If you’re a dog parent, you’re also—like it or not—a professional poop picker-upper. It’s just part of the deal. You’ve probably found yourself doing the awkward poop bag hand dance while your dog takes their sweet time in the middle of a public park. Or maybe you’ve experienced the soul-crushing horror of realizing you forgot a bag after the deed has been done. We’ve all been there!

    Picking up after your dog isn’t exactly glamorous, but it’s necessary. Not only for public courtesy, but also for health reasons—dog waste can carry bacteria and parasites that aren’t great for other pets (or humans). The good news? With the right tools, this daily duty can be way less gross and a lot more manageable.

    Here are three simple products that make cleanup quicker, cleaner, and slightly less icky:

    Pooper Scooper

    A pooper scooper is the unsung hero of backyard cleanup. If you’ve got a yard, this tool is a game-changer. No bending, no plastic bags around your hand—just a quick scoop and done. It keeps you (and your nose) at a safe distance and makes regular cleanup way easier.

    Product Available on Amazon

    Poop Bags

    Yes, the humble poop bag. But not all bags are created equal. Go for thick, leak-proof ones with easy-open tops (because struggling with a bag in the wind while your dog pulls on the leash should be an Olympic sport). Bonus points if they’re biodegradable—you get to keep the planet a little cleaner while cleaning up your dog’s mess. Keep a roll stashed everywhere: in your coat pocket, car, and next to the front door.

    Product Available on Amazon

    Gloves

    If you’re the squeamish type—or you’ve ever had a poop bag betrayal—you know the importance of backup. Disposable gloves can be a lifesaver, especially for yard cleanups or dealing with extra-messy situations. Keep a box in the garage or near your dog supplies for quick access. You’ll feel way more confident (and a little less grossed out).

    Product Available on Amazon

    It’s Not Glamorous—But It Can Be Easy

    Let’s be real: no one likes picking up poop. But it’s part of the job when you love a dog. With the right tools and a little prep, it doesn’t have to be a daily hassle—or something you dread.

    Amazon offers a pooper scooper with 100 bags, so that you will be all set for cleaning up after your dog!

    Product Available on Amazon

    So grab that scooper, stock up on bags, and maybe keep some gloves handy. Your dog does their part (whether they want to or not)—now you can handle cleanup like a pro.

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    Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

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    You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.