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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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.
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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.
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, ensureyour 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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Though many people love to see cats that are a bit heavier than they should be, the truth is that even a few extra ounces can affect your cat’s health. Just like overweight people, they are more likely to have health problems.
So, what kinds of problems are you looking at when it comes to overweight cats?
Overweight cats are more likely to suffer from the following:
Diabetes
Pain in the joints, which can turn into Arthritis as your cat ages
Urinary tract infections
Skin problems since they can’t groom themselves as easily as they used to be able to.
So, how can you tell if your cat is overweight?
Here are some signs that your cat may be overweight.
Your cat’s silhouette.
When your cat is standing still, he or she should have a waistline. His or her body should indent on the side instead of being straight or sticking out in the abdominal area. You also want to see the belly tucks up, instead of hanging to the ground.
You can feel your cat’s ribs.
You will want to be able to feel your cat’s ribs easily. Though there may be a little padding, if there is a lot of padding (or you can’t feel the ribs at all), your cat needs to lose some weight.
If your cat is overweight, he or she won’t be as active.
Though your cat may be slowing down as he or she ages, the truth is that your cat should have plenty of energy. You may also notice that your cat is unable to jump up the way that he or she used to. It may take your cat a few tries to get up on the furniture, or he or she may not be able to get up at all!
So, what can you do to help your cat lose weight?
Taking your cat to the veterinarian should be the first step in the weight loss process. Your veterinarian will help you determine what your cat should weigh, as well as rule out any problems that may be the reason why your cat weighs more than he or she should.
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If you want to learn more, you can check out my other article, Tips for Weight Loss in Dogs and Cats, about helping your pet to lose weight. If interested, you can check it out right here.
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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.
Worried your cat isn’t drinking enough water? You’re definitely not alone. A lot of cat parents deal with this—especially since many cats are surprisingly picky about how they hydrate. Still water in a regular bowl often doesn’t cut it. And when cats don’t get enough moisture, it can lead to dehydration, urinary tract issues, or even kidney problems over time. It’s one of those sneaky little health concerns that can go unnoticed—until it turns into a vet visit.
That’s where a cat fountain can make a big difference. Instead of stagnant water sitting in a bowl all day, a fountain keeps it moving and fresh—just the way most cats prefer. The gentle stream mimics running water in nature, which cats are naturally drawn to. It’s like flipping a switch: suddenly your cat is way more interested in drinking regularly, and you can feel better knowing they’re staying hydrated.
Fountains also come with built-in filters that help remove impurities, hair, and debris, so the water not only looks cleaner—it is cleaner. And if your cat is a bit of a water snob (most are), that fresh taste can be the thing that finally encourages them to drink more throughout the day.
Another bonus? They’re surprisingly low-maintenance. Most models only need to be topped off every few days and cleaned weekly. Some even come with dishwasher-safe parts to make things easier. No more constant bowl refills or wondering when your cat last drank.
Product Available on Pet Cube
If your cat turns up their nose at their water bowl, or you’re simply looking for an easy upgrade to support their long-term health, a fountain might be the game-changer you’ve been looking for. It’s one of those small switches that can have a big impact—and your cat will thank you (probably by drinking more and knocking fewer cups off the table). Hydrated cat = happy cat.
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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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It is also important that you understand that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Even though I am a veterinary professional, this blog is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
If you have recently lost a pet, whether you had to make the decision or not, the truth is that it can be very hard on you. In fact, I recently wrote an article about dealing with your own grief after the loss of your pet, Are You Struggling with the Loss of Your Pet? If you want to, you can read it right here.
That being said, your animals may also be grieving. To effectively help them, you need to know the specific signs to look for.
Here are some signs that your pet may also be grieving.
Changes in their personalities.
Many pets form a strong bond with their owners and each other after one of their family members passes away. Others may become quieter and disinterested in things that used to interest them.
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You may find that one of your pets spends more time sleeping than he or she used to. Others show signs of anxiety, pacing around the house, hiding, or just looking like they are sulking.
You may have to watch out for destructive behaviors. Some cats and dogs will start tearing up things in order to get your attention.
Changes in grooming.
You may notice that your pets may not be grooming themselves as much as they normally do. Some cats may get rather matted quickly if they stop grooming themselves altogether.
Changes in bathroom habits.
Your cat may miss the litter box due to anxiety and depression following the loss of a friend. Dogs may have accidents in the house for the same reason.
Changes in their appetite.
Many pets don’t have as much of an appetite when they are grieving. Just like people, some pets get depressed enough that they just aren’t interested in eating as well as they used to.
If your deceased pet was the one who controlled the others, you might see this even more. If your pets were used to eating only when they ate, they may still be waiting for their friend to eat first. These pets are often unsure about what to do without their guidance.
Changes in vocalization.
You may notice that your normally quiet dog starts barking excessively. If your dog is normally vocal, you may also notice that they are quieter than usual.
The same goes with cats. Some cats seem to be meowing and trying to find their lost friend, while others get abnormally quiet.
Looking around.
You may also notice that your pets may continue to look around for their friend. They may visit their favorite spots multiple times a day, simply trying to figure out where their friend is. They may even take to sleeping in their spot, as if they are waiting for them to come home.
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Although you may be grieving the loss of your pet, you also need to consider your other pets. They may also be dealing with their own grief in their own way. And just like people, it is different for everyone.
You may notice that your pets’ behavior changes. While he or she used to love to sit on your lap, your pet may be too preoccupied looking for their friend to do so. One of your other pets may cling to you or your other pets, seeking comfort.
Some become very anxious, vocalizing more than normal, while others spend more time sleeping. Some pets have accidents in the house (or outside their litter box) as a sign of grief and stress. You may even notice that they aren’t eating as well as they used to! They may even spend a lot of time waiting for their lost friend to come home.
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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.
Adding a new furry family member is a significant decision. While many people believe that rescuing a dog is the way to go, just as many people go to breeders and pet shops when it is time to get their next dog.
Many people are seeking a specific breed of dog, believing they can only obtain one through a breeder. Others want a puppy, instead of an older dog, so that it can grow up with their children.
However, the truth is that dogs of all ages are looking for a forever home and are often in need of rescue. The same can be said about the breed. Dogs of all breeds (purebred and mutts) need homes. There are local SPCA’s and Animal Rescues overflowing with dogs. There are also breed-specific rescues available if you prefer to adopt a specific breed.
There are so many reasons that you need to get a rescue dog today!
Getting a rescue dog saves their lives!
Many dogs are euthanized each year because shelters and rescues are overflowing with dogs. Often, there is nothing wrong with the dogs other than the fact that nobody wants them. So, save a dog today!
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When you rescue a dog, you are not supporting puppy mills.
Puppy mills contribute to the problem of dog overpopulation. Buying puppies only encourages breeders to breed their dogs more, so they can produce more puppies and earn more money. By rescuing your next dog, you are saving one without supporting breeders.
Unless you get a puppy, you do not have to deal with the puppy stage.
You might get a dog that is already socialized and potty-trained. They might already be used to children of all ages. Many of the dogs have basic manners when you receive them, depending on how the previous owner treated them. You may find yourself with a perfect, well-trained dog!
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Training can go a little easier, especially when it has already begun.
If someone has already started training, it makes the whole process a little easier. Potty training and leash walking might be within reach (and soon)! Some even come to you already going outside when they need to go to the bathroom.
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If you want to unleash your rescue dog’s potential, you may want to check out Dogo’s tailored training programs. After taking a survey, you will receive a customized training plan for you and your dog. They also offer courses for your new dog, no biting, potty training, basic obedience, tricks, and more!
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Rescue dogs are cheaper than puppies.
Even with cheaper fees than purebred puppies, rescue dogs are often spayed or neutered. They are usually up-to-date on their vaccines, which also saves you some money on vet bills.
When you get a puppy, you have to sign up for several vet visits to make sure that your new dog is up-to-date on all of his or her shots. Then, you need to spay or neuter him or her, which could cost you a few hundred dollars.
Rescue dogs often form strong bonds with their new owners.
Often, neglected dogs are so overjoyed at finding a home and people who love them that they attach to them quickly. They typically love to follow them around and spend time with them. They can make the best and happiest pets!
Often, unless you get a puppy, you will know what kind of personality your dog has.
With puppies, you can’t guarantee what your adult dog will act like. Instead, when you rescue an older dog, he already has a personality and way of behaving. You can decide precisely what you want in a dog and find one that matches your needs.
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Rescuing a dog can be beneficial for many reasons. You can decide what traits you want in a dog and find one that matches them. You do not have to deal with the messy puppy stage (unless you want one)! The dogs will also come to you fully vaccinated and fixed. They will have some basic training and socialization.
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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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Please 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.
Many people in America sleep with their pets in their beds. Sometimes, they feel like they are a part of the family and deserve a spot on the bed. Other times, they cannot get their pets to get out of bed.
Either way, how do pets in your bed affect your sleep?
Many people have allergies that might keep them awake at night.
You may not be able to sleep as well because you can’t breathe as well with them beside you.
Pets are just like people.
They can move around, snore, kick you, and basically keep you awake all night. Just like your husband or wife, you may find yourself waking up every time that your pet moves.
Cats are nocturnal, and they tend to be active at night.
They might keep you up while they are pacing around the bedroom looking for something to get. You may hear them running around the house when you should be getting some sleep.
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That being said, some people feel better having their pets in bed with them.
They might feel safer at night with their pet beside them. This may be even more true if they are home alone at night.
Even if you want to get your cats off your bed, you might not be able to.
They are very territorial and may not appreciate being moved off your bed. They might hiss, scream, and bite. You have to be careful of cats that try to scratch you because they can give you cat scratch fever.
Before letting your pets sleep in bed with you, ensure they are healthy.
Pets can pass on diseases such as roundworms, intestinal worms, and much more. You definitely need to take good care of your pets to let them sleep in your bed.
While a pet in your bed may or may not disturb you, it is up to you whether they are allowed in your bed.
It may be a personal reason, though it may also be practical. Only you can make the right decision for you and your pet.
If you decide to sleep beside your pets, here are some tips to ensure that you both get a good night’s sleep every night.
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Take your pets to the veterinarian regularly for checkups and deworming.
You don’t need to get sick just because you sleep with your pet.
Work on training your pet to sleep beside you, not on your chest, head, or any other area.
You don’t want to get woken up feeling like you can’t breathe, simply because they are sleeping on your neck or chest. They can safely stay beside you all night long.
Be sure to get a good mattress protector that will help you against bacteria that grow on your mattress.
If you have allergies, you may also want to consider finding one that is specifically designed for allergy sufferers.
Whether you allow your pets to sleep with you is a decision you need to make for yourself. For some people, their pets are disturbing their rest due to their snoring and roaming. However, some pets will sleep quietly beside you all night long. Some even get mad if you interrupt their sleep! Others may get mad when you try to get them off your bed.
If you decide to let your pets sleep beside you in bed, be sure to take them to the veterinarian regularly. You want to keep your fur babies healthy, as well as your entire family.
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.
When people think of groomers, they often think of poodles with their distinctive haircut. They probably also think about all the dogs that need to get shaved short regularly. They may also think about stinky dogs who need baths regularly to stay clean.
Cats are definitely not their first thought! However, just like dogs, grooming is an essential part of their care.
Still unsure about scheduling an appointment for your cat to visit the groomer? Here are some reasons why you need to schedule an appointment today.
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Clean their ears and trim their nails.
Cats are constantly grooming themselves, though they can’t get their ears done or trim their own nails. If you don’t clean your cat’s ears regularly, he or she may get an infection.
If you don’t keep up with nail trimming, they can get really sharp. Even if your cat is really friendly, they can get you with their nails, so they need to be trimmed regularly. Long nails are also bad for your carpet and hardwood floors. Also, if you don’t do their nails, they can actually grow into the pads. Not only is this really painful, but it also isn’t always easy to clip when they get that bad.
Grooming helps with shedding and hairballs.
All cats shed. They grow winter coats, and then these need to be brushed out regularly to help them shed.
This can also help with hairballs. Since cats are constantly grooming themselves, they are ingesting that hair. This leads to hairballs, which can be really gross for most people. However, cats who get groomed regularly seem to have fewer hairballs than those that don’t.
As cats groom themselves, they are ingesting the hair that is coming off. Unfortunately, it can lead them to vomit up hairballs. This habit can be pretty disgusting for most owners. A good grooming can really cut back the amount of hairballs that get vomited up.
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It will also address their problem areas.
Older cats and heavy cats have trouble grooming themselves as well as they used to. As a result, you may notice more matted and dirty hair. Then, if they aren’t taken care of, it can irritate the skin. It can get infected, as well as host fleas and maggots.
Long-haired cats can also have problem spots. Their hair tangles and mats. They can also pick up leaves and get fecal material stuck in their hair. These cats need regular grooming at home, as well as professional care.
Grooming helps with allergies.
Many people who are allergic to cats still own them. Professional groomers will be able to reduce the amount of dander, which is what most people are allergic to. It also reduces the amount of hair that your hair sheds.
Slows down flea infestations.
Fleas can be a terrible problem. Once you have them, it is hard to get rid of them. For that reason alone, you need to make sure that you keep fleas out of your home. Routine grooming and flea prevention will help to keep the fleas at bay.
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Although many people laugh when they think about grooming cats, the truth is that it is actually very important. The groomer will clean your cat’s ears and trim their toenails. It will also keep their skin healthy, as well as reduce the dander and hair that accumulate in your home. Grooming will help keep tangles out of your long-haired cat’s coat. It will also help your cats that are no longer able to groom themselves as well as they once did.
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Please 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.
