With so many options available, it can be overwhelming, but knowing the purpose behind each type of toy makes shopping and training much easier. The right toys keep your puppy entertained, comforted, and mentally stimulated while protecting your shoes and furniture from becoming an accidental target.

Why Is Puppy Play Important?

Playtime is important for any puppy because it teaches them a lot. Through play, they gain coordination, learn to control their bites, and practice problem-solving. This is a productive use of their energy, diminishing undesirable behaviours such as chewing inappropriate objects or barking due to boredom. Regular play helps your pooch bond with you, building trust and security in a new environment. Canines that aren’t house-trained can use toys as positive releases for natural instincts to chase, tug or mouth various textures. Each activity contributes to a happier, better-adjusted dog.

Puppy Chew Toys

Chew toys are among the most valuable items you can buy for a new puppy. Puppies instinctively begin to chew from the moment they arrive in your home because it helps them explore and understand their environment. The major period of teething also includes much chewing, usually starting around twelve weeks of age and continuing for several months. 

At this time, their gums can feel sore or itchy, so chew toys provide soothing relief and help distract them from any discomfort. Without a proper puppy chewable toy, they are far more likely to turn to furniture, shoes, or anything they can reach, which can quickly become frustrating for both you and your puppy.

There are many types of chew toys available, and each offers something different. Rubber chew toys are popular since they are durable, safe, and easy to clean. Some brands offer different levels of hardness, so you can choose one that’s suitable for your puppy’s age and chewing strength. Rope toys are another favourite because they let puppies chew, tug, and carry them around. They encourage the gentle cleaning of the teeth, which supports better dental health. For puppies needing extra stimulation, a good choice is the treat-dispensing chew toy. Not only do these satisfy chewing urges, but they also keep your dog interested as they work at getting the treat out.

The materials matter in choosing chew toys: high-quality rubber, natural rope fibres, and safe nylon are common options. Make sure to avoid toys that break easily or contain small pieces that could be swallowed. Always choose a reputable brand and look for the product labelled for puppies. These are designed to be softer and safer for young teeth compared to adult dog toys.

Caring for chew toys is just as important as choosing them. Rubber and silicone toys should be washed regularly with warm, soapy water to prevent the buildup of bacteria. Rope toys should be replaced when they begin to fray too much. Inspect toys regularly for cracks or loose parts, and discard anything that shows wear. 

Teething Toys

Teething toys are designed to alleviate discomfort when your puppy’s baby teeth begin to fall out. These toys are usually made from softer materials that feel gentle on swollen gums. Many can be chilled in the fridge, which provides extra soothing relief. Many teething toys include different textures to encourage your puppy to keep chewing in a controlled and safe manner. 

Anxiety Toys

Like humans, puppies may feel anxiety or stress adjusting to new places or routines. Anxiety toys help provide comfort through scent, sound, or texture. Some toys mimic the heartbeat of another dog, while others include warming pads that make your puppy feel as though they are snuggling with a companion. Soft plush toys can offer emotional comfort, particularly at times when your puppy is left alone. 

Soft Toys

Soft toys are excellent for games of gentle play and cuddling. Puppies love to carry them around, shake them, and curl up with them at nap time. Soft toys are especially great for little breeds or quiet puppies who do not chew hard. They introduce your dog to various shapes and textures while giving them something safe to interact with. Just make sure to choose soft toys without small plastic parts, such as eyes or buttons, which can become choking hazards.

Enrichment Toys

Enrichment toys challenge your puppy’s mind and encourage him to think, problem solve, and stay engaged. Puzzle toys, treat balls, and snuffle mats make your pup work just a little for their reward. This kind of game taps into their natural instincts to sniff, search, and explore.

Toys are not just those cute extras for your puppy; they support healthy development, reduce stress, and give your dog an outlet for natural behaviours. Whether you choose a puppy chewable toy, soft toys, or enrichment options, each one plays a role in helping your puppy grow into a confident and well-behaved companion.

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Grooming Table

The grooming table is one of the pet salon equipment essentials needed for your business. It’s your main working station and it has to be strong and sturdy to handle both smaller and bigger animals. There are several types of tables you can choose from. The first and most popular one is the electric table. 

The biggest advantage is the adjustable height. Yes, it can be more expensive than the others, but it’s worth the investment because it’s very convenient and practical. It moves with just a press of a button. Some of them can even have a rotating top and some extra features such as noses and harnesses, storage cabinets and drawers and power outlets. 

Hydraulic tables are easy to control but you have to do it manually through a pedal underneath. They can also have rotating tops you can lock at any position. The third type are folding tables. They’re the least expensive and are good if you’re grooming dogs in their homes. They’re lightweight and easy to store. However, because of their construction, they’re not that sturdy and stable, and not suitable for bigger and heavier dog breeds.

There are a few things to consider before investing in this type of practical pet salon equipment. Number one is the materials it’s made of. Make sure they’re strong and durable. Stainless steel is a great option because it’s sturdy and rust-resistant. Make sure the edges are rounded so the animal or you don’t get hurt.

You’ll never know the size of the pet that’s going to come to the salon. That’s why it’s good to invest in a bigger table that can handle the size of all breeds. The table should also have a nice restraining system to prevent the animals from jumping or falling. Last but not least is your height. Choose a table that will match your height so that it’s comfortable enough for your arms not to get strained during the day.

Brushes & Combs

Every grooming process requires some brushes and combs. It makes the whole process much simpler and easier. These tools will massage the animal’s skin and activate its natural oils. They’ll also remove mats and knots and keep the fur glossy and sleek. The slicker brush has tightly-spaced thin wires on a flat surface and it’s perfect for medium-sized coats.

Having rakes is also an excellent idea. They work wonders for getting rid of knots and dead undercoats. The majority of them can handle dogs with thick furs with ease and have two rows of pins. Choose this type of dog grooming equipment carefully: if working with short, smooth furs, you need bristle brush. It will exfoliate the skin and get rid of excess hair. Use a pin brush to add the final touch.

Dryer

Buying the right type of dryer is crucial. You already know that using a human hair dryer is out of the question because it’s too hot for the animal and can harm it. Animal dryers are specifically made for this purpose, taking the animal’s needs into consideration. They have different settings and drying options suitable for every customer you get. Make sure you invest in a device that’s strong and has multiple drying levels.

Instead of hot air, these dryers use high-pressure air. This way, they penetrate deep into the animal’s fur. Avoid dryers that are too loud. There are plenty of animals that are scared of loud sounds. Once you’re finished with the drying part, make sure you clean the dryer right away. Doing this after every usage will keep it working for many years to come.

Nail Clippers

Nail clippers are an essential in every pet grooming equipment kit. They’re also an important part of the grooming process. They need to be comfortable to hold with an ergonomic design because you’ll be using them a lot. Uncomfortable clippers can tire your hands and make it hard to work.

To make sure you can handle all animals that come into your salon, get clippers in many sizes. Invest in the best brand you can find so they’ll last longer. When you use them, they should give a clean cut and not leave any unclipped pieces. Otherwise, the animal can get hurt while scratching itself. If you’re not that experienced in cutting nails, buy ones that have a safety guard.

Hair Clippers

There are two types of hair clippers: plug-in and cordless. Although you can choose to use just one, it’s always a good idea to have both alternatives. This is only in case the plug-in cordless device’s battery runs out or there is no power for some reason.

The electric motor clippers are good when you’re dealing with thin and short coats. If you’re working on thicker furs, go for pivot motor clippers. Once again, an ergonomic handle is very important for this type of grooming equipment. Give them a try before buying them and get the most comfortable ones you can find.

Crates

Crates and cages will help your salon stay neat and well-organised. They should be a place where the animals feel safe and comfortable. Buying them in a few different sizes will help you accommodate many different animals. The pet should be able to stand, stretch and turn inside. To make them cosier, add some pet bed or blanket, pillows and toys.

Buy cages and crates made of durable materials such as stainless steel. They’re strong, can withstand a lot of wear and tear, and most importantly, they’re simple and easy to clean. Latches and locks are a must in case some pets are smart enough to open the door and get out. Depending on the space you have available, you can even buy stackable crates and save some floor space.

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Is Brushing Your Dog’s Coat Necessary?

Although brushing your dog’s fur isn’t always easy, it’s essential for keeping their coat feeling and looking good. Regular brushing can prevent excessive shedding and stray hair from accumulating in your house. Additionally, you’ll reduce their likelihood of developing severe tangles and mats, which experts say can result in discomfort from skin irritation and infections that can easily turn into a more serious health issue. Furthermore, regular brushing can help you and your pet bond more strongly, and offer you more control over grooming.

What Brushes Are Best for Dogs?

There are different types, sizes and styles of grooming brushes available. They’re suitable for different textures and lengths of dog hair. Here are some tips to help you choose the correct brush for your dog’s coat type.

Check the Most Popular Grooming Brush Types

According to experts, the most popular dog grooming brushes and combs are slicker brushes, pin brushes for untangling long hair, rake combs to minimise shedding, and ordinary combs to remove any remaining tangles after the first brush. Curry combs are another item you may encounter; they help short-haired dogs with loose hairs, getting rid of them before and during bath time.

Consider Your Dog’s Coat

The kind of hair your dog has will determine which brush is best for them. Firmer, longer-lasting pin-slicker brushes work better on breeds with longer hair. Conversely, short-haired breeds require finer-toothed grooming tools that help reduce shedding, or softer pet brushes like rubber ones.

Smooth-coated Dogs

“Smooth coats” refer to the short fur close to the dog’s body. Smooth-coated dog breeds, such as Labradors, Beagles, Greyhounds, Boxers, and Rottweilers, are among the easiest to groom because their fur isn’t likely to become matted or overly long. They still require weekly grooming, though.

Because dogs with smooth coats are prone to moulting, daily brushing helps to guarantee that their coats stay lustrous and soft, living true to their name. Rubber-made brushes are some of the best for dogs with smooth coats. Also, a natural bristle brush can help maintain the health of your dog’s fur.

Double-coated Dogs

Certain canines, like Malamutes, German Shepherds, and Huskies, have double layers of fur. Their lengthier outer coat shields them from the elements and filth, while their dense, soft undercoat is an insulation. A dog with two coats needs regular brushing to remove the dead undercoat and keep the outer coat from matting.

German Shepherds with longer outer coats benefit immensely from grooming brushes like the slicker, which works well on various coat types. Because of its flexible head that follows the natural curves of your dog’s body, a slicker brush eliminates loose hairs, avoids matting, and makes your dog feel comfortable. Using this brush daily can maintain your pet’s fur feeling and looking beautiful.

Wiry Coats

The wiry, coarse fur is the hallmark of terrier breeds, such as Fox, Border, and West Highland. And just because their coat isn’t as glossy and silky as other breeds’ doesn’t mean they require no regular grooming. Maintaining the wiry outer coat and undercoat in good condition is crucial for your dog’s comfort, as these canines have both layers of fur covering them.

Many owners prefer to keep their terriers’ coats short to minimise the need for frequent grooming because the wiry top coat can be challenging to work with. On the other hand, others decide to let their new fur grow by using a stripping knife to remove the coarse hairs from their coat.

Curly, Sleek, and Combination Coats

It’s no surprise that different dog breeds have varied coat types. Cockapoos and other cross-breeds sometimes have mixed coats, and it might take some time for a new owner to figure out how to maintain them well-groomed. Some dog breeds, like Spaniels, have sleek fur similar in texture to human hair, while other types, like Poodles and Bichon Frise, have curly, wool-like coats.

An excellent all-rounder pet brush for each of these coat types is a slicker brush. Dogs with a mix or longer fur benefit greatly from owning a Dual grooming brush. This brush’s bristle side contributes to glossiness, while its pin side keeps coats free of tangles.

Additional Grooming Tools for Dog Brushing

There are more tools available to you for dog grooming than brushes. Among these you have:

• Grooming gloves are ideal because they massage the skin and help remove loose hair and debris for short-haired dogs.
• Dog combs work best on long-haired dogs because they increase shine and help remove mats and knots. Wide-toothed combs, fine-toothed combs, and pin combs are among the several varieties available.

Once more, choosing a tool convenient for you and your dog is essential. You’ll find grooming more challenging and less pleasurable if the comb is painful.

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Use Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement training is widely considered to be the gold standard in veterinary medicine for canine behavioural modification. By contrast to negative reinforcement training, which emphasises scolding or otherwise disciplining your pet, the positive one emphasises rewarding the good behaviour instead.

Always give your dog a treat when it does what you want and obeys your directions. When you give someone a reward for being good, you’re teaching them that good behaviour will lead to more rewards.

Another consideration is whether or not you are unwittingly reinforcing undesirable actions. To prevent reinforcing undesirable behaviours, such as when your dog barks at you to play or leaps up to say hello, ignore it. Hold off on paying attention to them until they’ve calmed down.

A Dog Training Treat Bag is a Must-have

Canines are highly receptive to the prospect of receiving food as a reward. For those with a higher threshold for unpleasantness, a preference for soft, chewy and smelly delicacies over hard crunchy ones is common. And speaking of carrying smelly treats around your home, yard or dog park, who wants smelly pockets with different treats from the days at the park?

The solution for this is a belt dog training treat bag that’s easy to adjust, usually with a slimline, an accessory pocket and a built-in poop bag dispenser. It has everything you need when taking a pup for a walk or run, and more importantly, it’s comfortable too. This is perfect for when you don’t feel like lugging around treats in your jacket pockets but a designated bag that is easily approachable and there where you need it, so your training sessions are as effective as they can be.

Consistency is Important

Maintaining a regular training schedule is crucial, and so is keeping a variety of chewy snacks in your dog treat pouches to ensure your training is a success. When training your dog, it’s important to maintain uniformity in your methods, such as by consistently using the same term and even the same kind of intonation when asking them to perform anything.

Also, make sure everyone in your family is on the same page. Dogs need predictability in order to form new routines; if one of you never lets the dog on the couch, but the other does, the dog will be confused.

Maintain Short but Frequent Training

Training sessions that are shorter and more frequent throughout the day are more beneficial than lengthier ones. Sessions should go no longer than five minutes; much longer and your dog risks becoming bored or frustrated, according to the American Kennel Club.

Dogs also have a hard time generalising commands (i.e., knowing that asking for a “sit” at home is the same as asking for a “sit” on a busy street), so it’s helpful to repeat training sessions in different locations, with different people, and with varying levels of distraction, so that your pup learns to respond correctly to the same command always.

Increase Training Intensity Gradually

Different breeds of dogs have different temperaments; some of them will make the training session a breeze, and with others, you will have to use a zap collar. Take their temper and breed into consideration, especially with more complex actions like “stay,” or when attempting to modify (eliminate) an undesirable habit.

It can be good to begin with simpler steps. Reduce complex routines to their component pieces. Train “come” by praising and rewarding your dog with some of the goods stored in your fancy dog training treat bag for even the smallest progress towards you in the beginning. Once your puppy masters a small portion of the habit, teaching the rest will be a breeze.

Time Your Walking Sessions Properly

Dogs (and especially pups) have a lot of pent-up energy that can be channelled into improved listening and training if given an outlet. If you want to get the most out of your training session, it’s best to let them run around free for some time.

For instance, take your dog for a long walk or take them to the dog park before you start. Let them have fun, but make sure they have enough energy left to focus on the given tasks.

Have Patience

Strength training requires time, effort, and energy. Training your dog, whether it’s a puppy or an adult, entails shaping its behaviour, which usually requires more than one try. You should begin with the fundamentals (such as “sit” and “stay”) and then advance from there.

You are attempting to have a conversation with a creature that doesn’t understand your language. As eager as your dog is to learn, it will take some time for them to fully grasp your instructions and expectations.

And of Course, Have Some Fun Yourself

Having fun while training is important for both you and your dog. Have a constructive attitude at all times and try varying your training by adding in short play periods in between sets to keep things fresh.

In addition to standard obedience training, you may want to teach your dog some tricks. Humans are more excited by the sight of a dog rolling over than by a simple sit, and our dogs catch up on this and become passionate trick performers as a result.

The post Train Your Dog the Easy Way with a Few Simple Tips appeared first on Ways To.

However, although getting a new pup or small cat may be exciting, at the same time, it’s a lifetime commitment that you have to make as soon as they enter your life. You are responsible for your furry friends’ health, and properly taking care of your little fur-baby includes getting all the necessary pet prescription meds and regular vet visits, among many other things. Every responsible pet owner has to undertake the following responsibilities to ensure the well-being and happiness of their pets.

Regular Visits to the Veterinarian

The health of your pet should be your number one priority. Keep in mind that dogs and cats have a shorter life expectancy than humans. Depending on the breed of dogs, generally speaking, their lifespan is around 10-13 years. On the other hand, cats’ life expectancy is around 12-18 years. However, their lifespan can become even shorter due to health problems that might develop over time. Whether it’s an ear or eye infection, it’s better to treat it early rather than wait for the symptoms to worsen, resulting in difficult treatment for their infected and inflamed ears or, even worse, suffering from vision loss.

It is your responsibility to take your pets to routine check-ups, which may reveal hidden diseases, such as heartworm disease, that can be fatal if left untreated. This disease causes serious complications in dogs and cats, such as heart failure, lung and organ damage, and even death. That is why heartworm testing is important, along with fecal examinations, which can reveal the presence of intestinal worms inside your furry friend. Blood work is also important since it will show results of any infections, anaemia, etc.

Pet Prescription Medications

However, sometimes your heart will break when you hear that your fur-baby has some serious medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism, congestive heart failure, Cushing’s disease, atopic skin disease, and others. Luckily, they have you to look after them and get all the pet prescription meds they require to ease or control their condition.

What’s more, you can order all the necessary pet medications online from pet chemist shops without leaving your pet alone. You will be able to find different prescription meds for the most common ailments, such as flavoured tablets that help control CHF (congestive heart failure). Unfortunately, your pet may not exhibit any signs or symptoms in the early stages. However, as the disease progresses, your pet will start coughing, have difficult or rapid breathing, might faint, be weak, and have other symptoms. It will be your responsibility to ensure your pet takes the necessary dosage daily.

Another common prescription medication is thyroxine tablets which are used to treat hypothyroidism (dog’s or cat’s thyroid hormone levels being low). Your pet will show the following symptoms: sudden weight gain, issues with the skin and coat, weakness, low energy levels, changes in their behaviour, etc. You can also find other pet meds that relieve your pet from itching and inflammation of the skin, musculoskeletal disorders, and others.

Microchipping

One of the worst things that can happen to any pet owner is to lose their “furry ball of joy,” especially when they are younger. That is why apart from getting your pets safe collars with ID tags, you should also microchip them. The collar can always come off while the microchip is implanted under your pet’s skin and contains all the necessary info (address, telephone number, etc.) once the scanner reads it.

Healthy Food and Water

Another element of responsible pet ownership is providing your pet with nutritious food. Yes, just like you need the right nutrients for your body, the same applies to your four-legged friend. However, a young pup’s food will not be the same as the one of a senior dog, so make sure you provide them with the nutrients they require during their life stages. If you want to share your human food instead of the regular dog food, make sure you stick to chicken, salmon, shrimp, lean beef, cooked eggs, etc.

And, don’t forget to give your furry friend fresh, clean water to drink. Making sure your pet stays hydrated throughout the day is important, so always make sure to fill the water bowl.

Hygiene and Comfortable Bedding

As a pet owner, it is your responsibility to take care of your pet’s appearance. You have to bathe them as often as you can, comb their fur, clean their ears and mouth, trim their nails, etc. Also, make sure to bring your pet to a grooming professional if you don’t know how to shave your dog’s hair by yourself.

Apart from your dog and cat looking good, you want to make sure that they can also rest and sleep well with cosy bedding just for them. Cats love covered beds in which they can relax and feel safe. For your dog, you can get a soft memory foam bed or an orthopaedic one if your dog has joint issues.

Socialising, Training and Playing

One of the crucial things every owner has to do is start socialising and training their pets from a young age. For example, when puppies bite, it’s normal behaviour. However, it’s important to train them since once their teeth become sharp and powerful, biting will cause problems. Apart from that, toilet training is extremely important once you bring your little cat or puppy into your home.

Also, socializing will play a huge role in their adult years, so make sure to take the time and do it properly. No matter how busy you are that week, make time to bond and play with your fur-babies.

The post Responsible Pet Ownership: Ways to Show Your Pet You Care appeared first on Ways To.

Cats are cuddly little balls of fluff. But while they’re a lot of fun to pet and play with, don’t let the cute looks full you as they are highly independent and cunning. They are also known to be incredibly stubborn and “untrainable” which can make living with a cat as demanding as it is fun.

Cats Need an Outlet for Scratching

Even if your cat is the best behaved in the world, it’s still in its nature to scratch everything in its way – from furniture to floors, rugs and curtains. And no matter how many times you scold it, it will keep coming back, doing the same thing.

The best way to train your cat not to scratch things is the same way you teach a baby human not to do something: make it unpleasant, and give it other things to do. If you catch your cat scratching, reprimand the behaviour in a harsh voice and then shift its attention to a safe outlet for scratching.

In fact, there are cat specialised accessories designed to give cats’ claws an attractive and safe surface to sharpen their claws. When it comes to shopping for cat accessories Australia wide, pet stores offer a range of options from scratching posts to pieces of carpet-covered wood or sisal-covered cardboard tubes. Give your cat treats when it scratches the scratching toy, or even just rub its head or ears. If you have more than one cat, they’ll need more than one scratching accessory.

such as a scratching post—a—in every room of your house where there are places to be scratched.

To properly use the scratching cat accessories, put one in every room of the house the cat goes to. But remember, you can’t just put the scratching post in front of the place you want your cat to stop scratching. That gives the post the same value as the thing it’s trying to replace, which is not what you want. If you try this, you’ll find that your cat uses both the post and the furniture.

Place the post away from the cat’s favourite scratching spot and with some persistence, you should be able to use positive reinforcement to get it to prefer the post. You can also sprinkle some catnip to attract your pet to the post more easily.

The important thing is consistency: if there are two posts in one room and three in another, cats don’t know what they’re supposed to do. Once they prefer a certain kind of scratching surface they stick to it, so make sure your cat gets used to the post.

Treat Your Cat as an Individual

Cats are individuals, with their own personalities and preferences. Behave toward them as you would toward any other individual animal that is intelligent, has a fair bit of autonomy, and yet is completely dependent on you for its survival.

Treat your cat like a cat. Some people can’t do this to their cats, because they think of them as children. A child is not an individual, but an extension of yourself; you treat it the way you were treated by your parents or the way you wish someone had treated you. But a cat isn’t a child; it’s a small animal that lives in your house and relies on you entirely for its sustenance, health care, and safety. Your cat may love you, but its first duty is to love itself.

Observe Its Behaviour

If your cat shows signs of stress — say it’s scratching itself so much that it starts to bleed — don’t scold it or punish it. That will just make it worse. Instead, figure out what’s stressing it out and fix the problem: get more litter boxes if there isn’t enough space to avoid territorial fights; give it more attention if it’s feeling neglected; find ways to let it express its natural predatory tendencies if that’s what’s making your cat hiss more.

Keep It Warm

When it gets cold outside though, it will be up to you to make sure that you have blankets for them. They will want warm blankets that are just for them, so if you want to get a few for your cat, make sure that you choose the right ones.

It can be tricky trying to find the right cat blanket, but it can also be fun. You can shop for cat blankets in many stores for cat accessories Australia wide. You can even find really cute ones that are made out of fleece and look like little sweaters.

Don’t Let the Litter Box Frighten You

I’m about to tell you something that may change your life. Ready?

It’s not necessary to clean the cat litter box every day. Huh? What? I know, I know. That’s what I said when my friend first told me. It sounded crazy.

But it’s true. You can keep the box clean without having to pick up after your cat each time it goes to the bathroom. In fact, if you scoop out solids at least once a day, and add new litter once a week, you’ll keep things pretty fresh and the cats will probably be none the wiser. How can this be?

First, cats are incredibly fastidious about their toilet habits. They bury their waste carefully and cover it up; they don’t like exposed stools or urine or leaving traces of either around where other cats can see them. If the litter box is kept reasonably clean, your cat will be perfectly happy with it no matter how long it has been since you last changed the litter – and yes, they do notice and care how often you do that! The fact that they use it at all is really proof enough of its acceptability to them.

To Sum Up

At the end of the day, a lot of your cat’s behaviour revolves around its need to feel at home. Through a few simple adjustments, you can help make your place a home for both you and your cat. Consider these ideas for adding some comfort and fun to your cat’s dwelling. This will help your cat get along better with your family and ensure that all of you get to enjoy the time you spend together. And, of course, you’ll get plenty of cuddles in return!

The post Cat Care Advice: Ways to Make Living with a Cat Easier and More Fun appeared first on Ways To.

There are a lot of reasons why a dog might get ill. Some illness has to do with genetics, some depend on the current lifestyle or the place you’re living in and some issues would be caused by your actions. No matter what the reason is, it’s your responsibility to do your best as a dog parent and ensure your dog will never have that uncomfortable experience ever again.

While every animal has different issues based on its breed, age, or health, there are certain conditions that all dogs will be affected by at some point in their lives. Some of the most common health issues that dogs have to deal with in their lifetime are fleas, joint problems and parvovirus.

Joint Problems

Believe it or not, dogs can have joint problems, and unfortunately, these cases are not so rare. Bones, especially hips and elbows, are not made to last forever. And once they start to wear out, the dog’s life becomes painful. It begins to limp, or can’t walk at all.

The thing that wears out in a dog’s joints is cartilage. This happens because of a hormone called glucosamine. Glucosamine keeps cartilage healthy by making sure that both sides of the joint make new cartilage at the same rate; otherwise, one side will eventually grow faster than the other and produce a deformity like a bowleg leg in humans.

These conditions are usually diagnosed by X-rays or, in some cases, an ultrasound or CT scan. A few years ago there was no treatment for this. Even nowadays, joint problems in dogs can be tricky to deal with. However, there is something you can do about them. There is a good amount of canine joint supplements and other pharmaceutical products that can protect dog well being.

Flea Infestations

Fleas are tiny, flat insects that live in the fur of dogs. They cause itching, and can, if a large number of them are present, make a dog ill. Most fleas don’t live just on dogs. They live on any warm-blooded animal that happens by. A flea will hop off the dog and get into your house, where it will live for a while on your cat or in your bed or even in your hair.

As we may know, dogs have very keen senses of hearing and smell so one would think that they might be able to smell fleas. However, the way that dogs can sense fleas is by feeling an intense itch from the flea saliva, which makes the dog uncomfortable.

Although fleas are the most common parasite in dogs, they are also the easiest to control. There are many flea products on the market, but some work better than others.

For a dog infested with fleas, there are two dog care choices: a pill or a flea bath. The pill kills only adult fleas; it does nothing for their eggs or larvae. The flea bath will kill all three stages, but requires frequent applications and leaves the dog smelling of dog shampoo for weeks afterwards, which is not a bad thing if it solved the problem already.

Parvovirus In Dogs

Parvovirus can affect dogs of all ages and breeds, but puppies between 6 and 20 weeks of age are most commonly infected. Parvo is a viral disease that is highly contagious and can spread easily from dog to dog by direct or indirect contact. The virus affects the dog’s gastrointestinal tract, causing severe vomiting and bloody diarrhea. This leads to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and sometimes death.

Parvo symptoms usually appear 3 to 5 days after infection, and the most common symptoms are severe vomiting and bloody diarrhea. You may also notice your puppy going to the bathroom more frequently than usual.

Treatment is based on supportive care, so the symptoms are treated rather than elimination of the virus itself, and is aimed at keeping the dog alive until its immune system has produced enough antibodies to fight off the virus.

However, the best way to prevent parvo is by vaccination at six weeks and then again at 12 weeks. Your vet should also vaccinate your puppy against distemper and hepatitis as well at these times. Even after this initial vaccination, puppies should continue to have booster shots every three months until they reach 15 months old.

When to See a Vet?

Our dogs cannot tell us how they are feeling; they cannot even tell us what is wrong. It’s up to us to pay attention to them and figure it out.

One of the signs that your dog might be sick is that he doesn’t seem like himself. He may be quieter or more active than usual, more playful or less playful. If he has become skittish or aggressive, if he has lost his appetite or is vomiting or having diarrhea, if he seems off balance or wobbly when he walks, if his eyes look painful, if his ears seem drier than usual…any of these could be signs of illness.

Still, don’t panic, but don’t wait for your dog to get worse before taking him to the vet either. Even when successful, treatment may take a long time and require frequent rechecks and follow-ups, so make sure to make some vet appointments now and then.

To Sum Up

When it comes to dog well being, there’s no way you can prevent every health issue your dog will ever face, but arming yourself with the right knowledge of dog health and understanding what your pet is going through is a tremendous help. Chances are, you will at some point encounter one of the health issues listed above. Knowing the signs in advance can help you minimise the damage and ensure that those smaller problems don’t turn into large-scale issues.

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Fun fact: dogs are the only large carnivore to ever be domesticated.

Genetic studies show that all ancient and modern dogs share a common ancestry and are descended from an ancient species of wolf that once roamed the Planet Earth. Therefore, as a consequence of their breed and other genetic factors, dogs have a predisposition for certain health problems and diseases.

The most frequent genetically inherited canine cancers are lymphoma/lymphosarcoma, hemangiosarcoma, mast cell tumour and osteosarcoma. However in social settings dogs can transmit other dangerous diseases to each other, such as canine distemper, canine influenza, external parasites (ticks, fleas and mange), fungal infections, and most common intestinal parasites such as roundworms, hookworms, whipworms and tapeworms and others.

How Do You Know If Your Dog Isn’t Well?

We all know that puppies are supposed to be playful, energetic, have consistent weight and eating habits with a normal-looking stool. Their skin, fur, and ears are also huge health indicators, just as is their mouth and breath. If you notice unusual behavior in your dog (their temper, external look or feces), give your vet a call to see if an exam is necessary.

What Are Intestinal Parasites?

Intestinal parasites (roundworms, hookworms, whipworms and tapeworms) are parasites that live inside the host animal’s gastrointestinal tract. These worms can cause malnutrition (because they steal nutrients from the organism as food is being digested) and diarrhea, and hookworms can cause blood loss.

Common Symptoms of Worms in Dogs

Your pet’s signs will vary, depending on the type and level of the infection. Roundworm-infected puppies and kittens often show a pot-bellied appearance. Diarrhea, bloody stool, anemia and weight loss can indicate disease, but infected pets often don’t show any symptoms until they are alarmingly ill. This is why regular monitoring and preventive worm treatment for dogs is recommended because almost all carnivores have some kind of internal parasites.

Can I Deworm My Dog Myself?

It’s worrisome to think about your pet—or you or a family member—suffering from these pesky parasites. This basic information should help you protect your furry friends against them. Fortunately, preventive treatment is inexpensive, easy and you can even find professional worm treatment for dogs online.

The over-the-counter medicine such as dog worming tablets purchased through pet shops typically treat roundworms successfully but are not effective on the range of other parasites that older dogs can have and further vet consultations are required. If you go for a detailed vet exam, a fecal test is going to determine what, if any, parasites your dog has. Your veterinarian can then prescribe an effective medication designed to treat the precise parasites, which present a threat not just for your dog but are transmittable to humans as well

Natural Foods Dogs Should Eat

The deworming treatment for dogs also includes a healthy diet that will help get rid of intestinal parasites and promote dental health and shiny fur. Making sure your dog eats quality, natural food without added chemicals and harmful fillers are essential. It is also known that foods such as chopped carrots, dried coconut, beetroot, banana, apple, papaya and other fruits and veggies (rich in fibre) are a great addition to boost their immunity.

Toxic Foods Dogs Must Avoid

Dogs are naturally curious opportunists. Scientists guess that for every scent receptor a human has, a dog has about 50. So, it is no wonder that if they could, they would sniff around all day long. It’s just who they are. However, this curiosity gets them in serious trouble sometimes. Foods such as onion, garlic, chocolate, avocado, alcohol, grapes, raisins and others may cause severe damage if not fatal. If your dog happens to taste any of these foods, take them to the vet immediately.

Besides food, dogs like to sniff other dogs and their urine and feces which is another way for them to transmit parasites to each other. So when there is high traffic of other curious pups running around at the park, keep away from the area where there are other dogs’ feces.

Happy Dog = Happy Life

We know that wild animals live under constant stress for survival, and it is a part of their nature so they are built to live that way. But this doesn’t apply to humans and our beloved pets. At least not anymore. Minimizing stress and traumatic experiences is necessary for our overall health.

Pets are affected by our environment just as we are and as you already know, they are the first to notice any mood change just by the sound of your voice or body language. This is why so many people around the world love dogs for their loyalty and consider them best friends. Providing them with care and affection is already half of the job for our animals to live the fulfilled life they deserve all of the time.

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Providing them with a bed to sleep on will encourage them to sleep in one specific place. Having a comfortable bed to go to every time they feel like it’s time for a nap, allows your cat to become happier and more relaxed. Also, it can be very helpful if you are moving to another house as their bed will give them a sense of familiarity and lessen the tendency for stress and anxiety most cats have when moving.

Different Types of Beds for Cats

Donut Cat Beds

These beds are soft, round and comfortable, ideal for a cat to rest and sleep on one. A donut cat bed typically features raised sides, so the cat can sleep in the middle of the bed and curl up while sleeping. We, cat parents, know how much cats like sleeping curled up and the donut bed allows them to sleep in their favourite position and feel warm, cosy and comfortable at the same time.

Cats love to have their own place in the house and in a donut bed they can feel secure thanks to the raised edges where they can rest their head while sleeping or simply watch the world go by, which is one of the cats’ favourite activities from time to time. You can choose a donut cat bed for your feline friend regardless of your cat’s age. It’s a great choice for a kitten bed as well as it’s so soft and secure.

A donut bed can have a calming effect as well because cats love to knead their sleeping spot before they settle down to take a nap. A cat will knead when it’s feeling happy, which can result in better behaviour and improved health. Kneading is one of the reasons why cats need blankets, so investing in a cat blanket is also a good idea if you want to make your furry friend feel happy and comfortable.

Cat donut beds are stylish and modern beds for felines and choosing one can provide your cat with a great place to rest, but also it can become a beautiful addition to your home interior. Make sure you choose the right size and colour and you will have a cat bed that suits both your pet and your home aesthetics.

Choosing the right size of bed for your cat is important because if you buy one that is too small, then it won’t fit in it, but if you buy a bed that’s too big, they may get lost in it and not enjoy the full benefits of being able to snuggle up to the sides.

Cat Cubbie Beds

This type of cat bed is shaped like a kennel and makes for a perfect foam house for one or two kittens or smaller cats. They can curl up freely and enjoy their sleep time.

Cat Igloo Beds

For cats that love to hide and enjoy their free time, a cat igloo bed is a great option as well. It gives them the opportunity to feel safe and secure and rest comfortably as it offers a lot of space and stability. There are many ways in which an igloo bed is good for your cat and one of them is that it’s very easy to clean and maintain.

A cat igloo bed can easily turn into a sleeping oasis for your pet because most of them are made of high-quality materials that will keep your feline friend warm and comfortable at all times. This type of cat bed is sometimes referred to as a cat cave because it’s enclosed and your cat can enter through an opening. Once inside its cosy bed, your furry pal is fully cocooned and since there is only one entrance, it makes them feel safe and sound.

How to Ensure Your Cat Will Use the Bed You Choose

Cats like warm and cosy spots and that’s how they choose their sleeping areas. To ensure your cat will sleep in its own bed, make sure you place it in a quiet corner that is close to the area where your family usually gathers around, whether it’s the living room or the kitchen. Avoid high traffic areas of your home as well as the front or back door and any cool or damp spots. If you prefer having your cat sleep closer to you, you can place their bed in your bedroom, but make sure to keep their night habits in mind before you make that decision.

Once you’ve selected the perfect spot, it’s time to introduce your cat to their new bed. Breaking a cat’s sleeping habits can be a quite challenging task, so make sure you adjust the bed to their sleeping habits. If your cat has a sleeping spot already, make sure you only upgrade the spot, without changing it. On the other hand, if your cat is a new member of your home, then it’s a good idea to find a place that’s not in the way, so they can still peek out and look around from a safe distance until they get familiar with the surrounding area and all the family members.

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Choosing the right cat harness is important when preparing your cat for outdoor walks. A well-fitting harness can keep your kitten secure and comfortable whether strolling, hiking, or engaging in other activities. Providing enjoyable outside experiences for our furry friends is just as important as picking the comfiest cat bed and providing nutritious and tasty meals.

When you scan the many pet supply stores, you’ll notice there’s a variety of leads for cats to choose from. Before you can decide what to get, it helps to be more informed about why it’s good to walk your cat and how to do it right.

Reasons to Buy a Lead for Your Cat

Sometimes your cat can be a little wanderer, and for a bunch of reasons, including satisfying their hunting instincts, surveying their territory, smelling new scents, looking for a partner, or simply out of curiosity. So, when you’re out and about with your pet, it can get distracted by all sorts of sounds and sights, leading it to go astray and increasing the risk of getting lost.

A lost cat may be quite worrisome for cat owners, especially when it stays gone for hours or even days at a time. That said, a good lead will be an excellent choice for ensuring your cat’s safety and satisfying its curiosity.

Is Leash Walking Right For Your Cat?

How do you know if your cat would accept the notion of walking on a leash? If your cat is adventurous and often trying to get out of the house, it could be a prime candidate for going on walks outside. Knowing your cat’s personality can help you when deciding whether or not to add a leash walking exercise for your feline. The next logical step would be to introduce your cat to the harness and lead, this will take some time and patience during training.

Training Your Cat on a Lead

When it comes to leash training, starting young and teaching your cat that walking on a leash is a normal activity will be easier than teaching an older one. It will give you more time to establish a pattern and educate the kitten that a leash isn’t anything to be afraid of.

The first thing you’ll need to demonstrate to your cat is that the harness is not restricting and that it is associated with a positive experience. Getting used to the harness should be combined with appreciation exercises such as playing with a favourite toy and eating treats. While the kitty is occupied with something else, make sure the harness is correctly set and is not injuring your pet. Your feline should wear the harness about the home while doing routine activities to help and get comfortable with it as quickly as possible.

Getting your cat used to the leash and harness is a gradual process, so be patient and allow plenty of space to adjust. And remember practice makes perfect!

What Is Essentially Better: A Harness or Colar?

Despite the fact that collars are standard pet accessories, it is not suggested that your cat wears one on walks. You want your cat to be safely tethered to you when outside.

Cat-safe collars can lose their flexibility over time, and some cats may lose weight as they mature. If the collar is too loose it will easily fall off your cat’s head. Investing in a harness and a leash will be better for you and your kitten.

Furthermore, all collars include a breakaway feature, which means that if your cat becomes snagged on something, it will fall off fast to prevent choking, putting the cat at risk of escaping and you losing control of the situation. So, it’s preferable to go with the harness and let your cat grow used to it.

Given the fact that cat collars with attached bells are often worn inside the house, they would be a great choice to wear outside when keeping track of your cat’s activities.

Types of Cat Harnesses

H-Harness

This type of harness is shaped like the letter H. These harnesses have the least amount of contact area with your kitty, they are the most preferred harness for kittens. They usually do not need to be put over your kitty’s head and have two points to secure on the side of your kitty.

H-harnesses are designed to put some pressure on certain parts of your cat, which is useful in certain situations. However, many cats prefer them since they have less contact area and do not require their heads to be pulled into the harness.

Vest Harness

Vest harnesses have the appearance of a vest. As a result, they get closer to your cat than an H-Harness. They are usually secured on the back. H-harnesses provide less covering and pressure distribution than walking vests. They’re usually made of mesh, and they’re a wonderful option for cats who pull a lot on walks or for cats that can squirm out of a leash and run away.

Because they have more contact with your cat’s body, the pressure points are spread out more, which is beneficial when your cat moves suddenly. To put a vest harness on a cat, you’ll most likely have to poke their head through the harness, which can create a turtleneck effect. Many cats dislike this feeling, but some cats become accustomed to it.

Jacket Harness

Try the jacket option if you’re looking for an even better covering harness. The jacket harness, often known as a butterfly harness, is another common form of the harness. These often fit better and cover more of your kitty’s body. This means that if your cat is scared while you’re out and about, it’ll be less likely to squirm out of its collar. They’re usually made of mesh, and they’re a wonderful option for cats who pull a lot on walks or for the ones who are escape artists.

How Do You Walk Your Cat?

You may start training your cat to join you on all kinds of outdoor excursions once you’ve chosen the suitable harness and fitted it properly. Keep your travels indoors until you’ve confirmed that your cat is secure in the harness and comfortable navigating around it.

When going on the leash, you should allow your cat to take the lead, at least until it becomes used to it! If you yank on the leash too hard, your furry pet may grow to despise it even more. Before taking the leash outside, let them go around the house with it dragging behind them.

If your cat senses danger, it’s your responsibility to create a safe haven for them. Bringing a cat carrier to ensure your cat’s safety is a fantastic idea, whether it’s due to a close encounter with another animal or simply because your cat got tired.

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