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Tag: cat care

  • Top-Entry vs. Side-Entry Litter Boxes: Which One Makes Less Mess?

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    If you’ve ever stepped on rogue litter barefoot or watched your cat launch half the box contents across the room after a particularly enthusiastic bathroom visit—you’ve probably started researching litter boxes with better mess control. Two popular options are top-entry and side-entry boxes, and while they both claim to reduce scatter and odor, they work in pretty different ways.

    Top-entry litter boxes are exactly what they sound like: your cat hops in through an opening on the top. Once inside, they do their thing, and when they hop back out, most of the litter stuck to their paws falls back into the box through a perforated lid. It’s surprisingly effective at reducing litter scatter and hiding the mess inside. Plus, if you’ve got a dog who thinks the litter box is a snack bar (ew), top-entry designs can keep them out. The downside? Some cats—especially older ones or those with mobility issues—may not love jumping in and out.

    Product Availble on Amazon

    Side-entry boxes, on the other hand, are the traditional style and tend to be more accessible for cats of all ages and sizes. Covered versions help contain odors and give your cat some privacy, and some have high sides to prevent scatter. They’re a great pick if your cat likes to dig or back into corners, but litter can still end up on the floor if your cat sprints out like they’re escaping danger (you know the move).

    Product Available on Amazon

    So, which one makes less mess? If your cat’s agile and doesn’t mind the vertical jump, a top-entry box is usually the cleaner option when it comes to scatter and odor. But if you’ve got a senior cat, a kitten, or one who prefers easy access, a side-entry box with tall sides or a litter mat might be the better (and more cat-friendly) choice.

    At the end of the day, the best litter box is the one your cat actually uses—and the one that keeps your floors (and your feet) clean. 🐾

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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.

  • 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.