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Tag: cat owner

  • Lost in the Litter Aisle? Let’s Break It Down

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    Now that you have chosen the perfect litter box, it is time to think about the litter that you put in the box!

    Raise your hand if you’ve ever stood in the pet store staring at a wall of cat litter, totally overwhelmed. Clumping, non-clumping, clay, crystal, pine, tofu (yes, tofu!)—who knew cat litter could be so complicated?

    I’ve tried more types than I care to admit, and here’s what I’ve figured out: there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It really comes down to your cat’s preferences, your cleaning habits, and maybe your tolerance for smells (or dust).

    Here’s a quick rundown of the most common types to help you make sense of it all:

    Clumping Clay Litter
    Clumping litter is the classic. It forms solid clumps when wet, which makes scooping a breeze. Great for controlling odor, but it can be dusty—and heavier than other types.

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    Non-Clumping Clay
    This litter is less expensive, but you’ll need to change the whole box more often. Not ideal if you want easy daily maintenance, but it can work in a pinch.

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    Crystal (Silica) Litter
     These little beads absorb moisture and odors really well and last longer between changes. They’re low-dust and low-maintenance, though some cats don’t love the texture.

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    Natural Litter (Pine, Corn, Wheat, etc.)
    These types of litter are made from plants and biodegradable materials. They are great if you want something eco-friendly. Some clump, some don’t, and they often have a natural scent (which your cat may or may not appreciate).

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    Tofu Litter
     Yup, it’s a thing—and surprisingly good. It’s biodegradable, clumps well, and has low dust. Plus, it’s flushable in small amounts (check your plumbing first!).

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    So, which one’s the best? Honestly—it depends! Some cats are super picky about texture or scent, so you might need to experiment a little. I always recommend starting with what works best for you (scooping schedule, budget, etc.), then adjusting based on your cat’s feedback.

    Trying to find your perfect litter match? Don’t be afraid to test a few out. Your cat will have strong opinions—and probably let you know pretty quickly.

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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. 

  • How to Calm a Stressed Cat Without Medication

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    If your usually sweet cat has suddenly turned into a couch-destroying, fight-picking, shadow-hiding ball of nerves… you’re not alone. Cats are notoriously sensitive to change. Something as small as rearranging furniture, switching up your schedule, or adding a new pet (or person) to the mix can throw their world off balance.

    While some cats adjust quickly, others express their stress in ways that aren’t so subtle—scratching furniture, spraying, hiding, or even swatting at other pets. It’s frustrating to deal with, but they are just trying to tell you something.

    That’s where Feliway can make a big difference.

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    Feliway is a calming product made just for cats. It mimics the natural pheromones that cats release when they feel safe, secure, and content. These pheromones are kind of like invisible “comfort signals” that help them relax. When your cat rubs their cheeks on you or their favorite spot? That’s them spreading those feel-good vibes.

    Feliway comes in a plug-in diffuser or spray, so it’s super easy to use. Just plug it into the room where your cat spends the most time, or spray their favorite nap zone, carrier, or scratching post. It’s scentless to humans, but your cat picks up the calming message—and most start to feel more relaxed in just a few days.

    One of the best parts? It’s drug-free. No sedatives, no pills to sneak into treats, no worrying about side effects. Feliway works with your cat’s natural behavior to create a more peaceful environment. Many vets recommend it for stress-related issues like:

    • Hiding or isolating
    • Inter-cat aggression
    • Over-grooming
    • Scratching or spraying
    • Changes in routine, visitors, or moving house

    While Feliway isn’t a magic fix for every behavior issue, it can be a game-changer for stressed-out cats who need help feeling safe again. You might not see results overnight, but with consistent use, many pet parents report happier, calmer cats and less drama at home.

    So if your cat has been acting a little “off” lately, or if you’re dealing with a stressful transition, Feliway could be the low-effort solution that brings a little more harmony back into your home—and keeps your couch scratch-free, too.

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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. 

  • 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

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    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.

    ***

    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.