Category: Cat Tips

  • Will My Cat Get Along with Another?

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    When introducing cats to each other, it is essential to consider a few key factors. You can’t simply put two cats together and assume that things are going to work out ok.

    Although that does happen, it works much better if you figure out whether your cat will be a good match for the new one you are bringing into your home.

    Here are some things to consider when deciding whether your cat will get along with another one.

    Age/Energy level. 

    Although you may want to get a kitten as your cat gets older, the truth is that the transition will go much smoother if they are about the same age and have a similar energy level.

    That being said, some kittens can bring out your older cat’s inner kitten. It can be fun to watch an older cat run and play with a new kitten.

    Size. 

    The size of your cat is also something to consider. You don’t want to put a giant cat in with your tiny and dainty female cat. Bigger cats may bully smaller ones simply due to their smaller stature.

    Socialization history. 

    Some cats have been socialized more than others, and you can tell. These cats are usually very friendly and have no problem interacting with other animals, regardless of their size.

    Past interactions. 

    If your cat (or the other cat) has had a bad experience when it came to spending time with another animal, you might have trouble introducing a new cat.

    Fearful cats. 

    Then, there are the fearful cats. These cats are scared of their shadows and are often stressed even in their home environment. These cats will do better on their own.

    If you decide to introduce a new cat to your fearful one, you need to accept that it will take some time for them to get used to each other. Be warned that you may end up dealing with aggressive behaviors, as well as inappropriate urination.

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    When considering bringing another cat into your home, it’s essential to choose carefully. You need to choose one that is most likely to get along with your current cat. You should ensure that they are similar in age and energy levels, and that they are appropriately socialized. If either cat is fearful, it may happen, but it will take some time.

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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. 

  • Reducing Stress at the Veterinarian’s Office

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    Just like a doctor’s visit can be stressful for you, your pets may also feel the same anxiety when they go to the veterinarian’s office. Then, if they have a bad visit, it only gets worse. Every visit gets harder and harder for your pet.

    For that reason, you need to make sure that your pet’s veterinary visits go as smoothly as possible. Here are some tips to help.

    Ensure that you properly socialize any new puppies you acquire. 

    When you first get a new puppy (and they are properly vaccinated), you need to introduce them to new places. You will want to take them to different places so that they don’t fear going anywhere. Instead, each new place should be a fun place to explore!

    So, get them used to going in the car to visit the pet store, friends’ and family’s homes, and even the veterinarian’s office. Most veterinarians will allow you to bring your new puppy in to get them used to coming in. They may even take time out of their day to play with your puppy and give him or her treats, just to make sure that they know it is a safe place.

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    During this time, ensure that your pet is accustomed to being handled. 

    Most dogs and cats don’t enjoy getting touched, so you need to handle your new puppy and kitten regularly. Play with his or her feet. Look into the ears. Feel their belly, like they would have done at the veterinarian’s office. Look inside your pet’s mouth. All of this will make the examination go more smoothly.

    You may even want to practice restraint. This is often the worst part of the visit, even over toenail trims and ear cleanings. Most dogs and cats don’t want to be held still. So, next time you take your dog or cat to the veterinarian, observe how they are held, so you can get your dog or cat used to it at home.

    Find the right veterinarian. 

    Many veterinarians want your puppies and kittens to have a good experience. They want their patients to enjoy their visits, and they work hard to make sure that it happens. They may have a treat jar (or even a treat drawer) where they can pull out tasty snacks to make sure that your pet has a good experience.

    Know the signs of stress.

     It is essential to recognize when your dog or cat appears to be stressed.

    Here are some signs of stress that you should look for:

    • Shedding
    • Licking or biting skin
    • Drooling
    • Barking and whining (in dogs)
    • Hissing (in cats)
    • Big eyes
    • Trembling
    • Hiding or, if unable to hide, they might tuck their body in order to make it as small as possible
    • Any habit that isn’t normal for your pet

    If the visit to the veterinarian’s office is too stressful, you may need to try again on another day (or consider using medication to make the experience more manageable).

    If your dog or cat is excessively stressed, your veterinarian may recommend medication. 

    Though you may not want to do so, it might be in everyone’s best interest. A pill or two could make the visit go that much smoother for your pet, you, and the entire veterinary team.

    The goal isn’t to completely sedate your pet, but you want to take the edge off so that they aren’t as stressed (and are easier to handle). If your veterinarian would rather man-handle your dog or cat, it might not be the right place for you! It could just make the entire thing worse.

    Always use a well-fitting collar or harness when coming to the veterinarian’s office. 

    You also need to have a good leash. Not only will you be able to bring your dog into the office, but it will also keep them safe. If there are other animals in the waiting room, you will have control of your own dog.

    Although you may think you need a flexible leash, it is a much better idea to get a sturdy one, similar to this one from Amazon. Chewy also offers a variety of leashes for you to choose from. 

    Prodcut Available on Amazon

    If you have a cat (or small dog), you may also want to get a good carrier. It is even better if they have an extra few doors, like this one below, which is available on Amazon. Chewy also has plenty of carriers for sale too!

    Product is Available on Amazon

    Make sure that you bring your pet’s favorite treat along! 

    Though your veterinarian may offer treats, you may want to bring something that your dog or cat really enjoys. You may want to consider bringing cheese, chicken, or even hot dogs if that is what your dog loves to have.

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    The best thing you can do for your new pet is to get them properly socialized. This means riding in the car and exploring new places. You may even want to visit the veterinarian’s office a few times before your appointment. It also helps to get him or her used to being handled and restrained. That helps the visit go that much smoother!

    That being said, there are times when you may need to think about using sedatives. Though you may not want to use them, it can really help everyone. Your dog or cat will be less stressed. Your veterinarian may be able to complete the examination quickly, which means that your beloved pet will be back home sooner than expected! This is a win-win for everyone!

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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 essential to 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. 

  • Feeling Overwhelmed by Litter Box Options? Here’s How to Pick the Right One

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    Shopping for a litter box should be easy… until you realize there are about a hundred different kinds. There are ones that are covered, uncovered, top-entry, self-cleaning, corner-shaped, high-sided, low-sided, and much more! It is enough to make your head spin. If you’ve ever stood frozen in the pet aisle, staring blankly at the options (or endlessly scrolled through reviews online), trust me—you’re not alone.

    Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all answer, but after a lot of trial and error, you should be able to find one that works best for you and your cat!

    So, what are the most common types of litter boxes?

    Covered Litter Boxes

    Product Available on Amazon

    Covered boxes are a popular choice, and for good reason. They help trap odors, contain litter scatter, and give your cat a little privacy (which some cats really appreciate). They’re also a lifesaver if you have dogs or curious toddlers who treat the litter box like a snack bar.

    That said, not all cats love the cave-like vibe. Some might feel trapped or hesitant to enter if it’s too dark or cramped. It’s worth testing it out—if your cat seems reluctant, try removing the lid for a while and see if that helps.

    Uncovered or Open Boxes

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    These are the old faithful of litter boxes: simple, affordable, and easy to clean. They make it easier to keep an eye on things (literally), and they’re often the best choice for kittens or senior cats who need easy entry and exit.

    The downside? No odor control or litter barrier. So, if your cat likes to dig like they’re prepping for a beach day, be ready for a bit of cleanup. Still, with regular scooping and maybe a good litter mat, they can totally do the job.

    Top-Entry Litter Boxes

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    These are the overachievers of the litter box world when it comes to controlling mess. The top-entry design helps keep litter inside the box, even if your cat kicks like a champ. They also offer a sleek look and can help keep curious kids or dogs from snooping around.

    But here’s the catch: they’re not for everyone. Older cats, arthritic cats, or kittens may struggle with the high jump required to get in. Always consider your cat’s age, size, and agility before going this route.

    Self-Cleaning Boxes

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    Self-cleaning litter boxes are a dream come true when they work for your cat. They automatically scoop waste into a compartment, so you don’t have to do the daily scooping. Great for busy pet parents, multi-cat households, or people who just want a little less of the not-so-glamorous side of cat ownership.

    However, not all cats take to the noise or motion of these boxes, and they tend to be more expensive (and sometimes finicky). Make sure to read reviews and consider a return policy, just in case your cat isn’t a fan.

    How can you figure out what is right for you?

    At the end of the day, the best litter box is the one your cat actually uses—consistently, comfortably, and without drama. It’s worth experimenting a little to find what works. Think about your cat’s age, size, habits, and personality—and don’t forget to factor in your home layout and cleaning preferences too.

    Finding the right litter box can take some trial and error, but once you do, it’s a total game-changer. A happy cat, less mess, and maybe even fewer nose-wrinkling surprises? Totally worth it.

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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. 

  • What You Need to Know About Your Cat’s Vaccines

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    Most people don’t want to take their cat to the veterinarian, yet it is a crucial way to keep their cat as healthy as possible. Not only will your veterinarian take a good look at your cat, but he or she will also make sure that your cat is fully protected with vaccines.

    While you don’t want to over-vaccinate your cat, you also don’t want to have to worry about him or her getting sick. You may be unsure about which vaccines your cat really needs. You may not want to give any, since your cat doesn’t even go outside. This may not be very clear for many pet owners.

    Here are some vaccines that your veterinarian may recommend for your cat.

    Your cat needs to have a Rabies vaccine. 

    This disease, which is caused by the rabies virus, affects the brain and central nervous system. It is transmitted by direct contact with saliva from an infected animal. This is usually through a bite.

    The rabies vaccine is so important because it can also affect humans. It is also deadly! Many states require all cats to have a rabies vaccine to keep everyone healthy!

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    The distemper vaccine is a single vaccine that covers a variety of diseases. 

    Its initials can help you remember all the different diseases that a distemper vaccine prevents. FVRCP stands for:

    • Feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR) can be fatal to kittens and older cats. It causes cats to sneeze and develop a fever. Many cats exhibit symptoms of a runny nose and eyes. Cats who have FVR often lose their appetite.
    • Feline calicivirus is a severe respiratory infection often associated with FVR. Cats will have nasal congestion and sneezing. Many cats also develop painful ulcers in their mouth, which can lead to drooling. These cats often get a fever and don’t feel very well.
    • Panleukopenia is a contagious disease that can be deadly for kittens. Signs include vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and depression.

    You may want to consider vaccinating your cat against Feline Leukemia. 

    This virus interferes with your cat’s immune system, meaning that he or she won’t be able to fight infection as well as usual. This disease is spread through saliva, urine, and blood. Cats get it by sharing food bowls, grooming, and bites.

    If your cat is an outdoor cat, you should consider getting the leukemia vaccine to keep them as safe as possible.

    Another disease to consider with outside cats is Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV). 

    Unfortunately, there is no vaccine for this disease and no cure. Even worse, many cats that have FIV, also have feline leukemia.

    Feline immunodeficiency virus is also transmitted through saliva. Biting, scratching, and fighting (which is common with outside cats) will spread this disease from cat to cat.

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    For this reason, you should check every new cat (and kitten) that you get for Feline Leukemia and FIV. This is no longer a death sentence. Some of these cats can live healthy lives, as long as you take proper precautions. You will need to keep your cat inside and separate from all other cats. You won’t be able to let him or her outside, as you would help spread these diseases.

    The best way to ensure your cat is fully vaccinated is to consult with your veterinarian. Let him or her know about your cat’s risk factors (including how many cats are in the home and whether he or she ever goes outside)! Then, you can decide together which vaccines your cat actually needs.

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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. 

  • 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.

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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.

    ***

    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 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.

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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.

    ***

    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. 

  • Should I Be Concerned About My Overweight Cat?

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    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.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    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. 

    ***

    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. 

  • Cat Water Fountain Benefits (and Why I Won’t Go Back)

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    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.

    ***

    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. 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. 

  • Are Your Other Pets Grieving the Loss of Another Pet?

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    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.

    Photo Courtesy of Canva

    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.