Kitty in NY - Kitty in NY - blog

James (aka Jim) provides in-home boarding services in Lincoln Square neighbourhood, Upper West Side, Manhattan

12/6/2019

We would like to introduce you to some of our caregivers. KITTY in NY has selected over the years some outstanding people who have one thing in common: they LOVE cats!

Hi there. I'm a semi-retired media executive who lives by himself in a spacious studio within the newly constructed part of Riverside Center along the Hudson. The apartment is uncluttered and roomy with a nice view of the street. There's a cozy wide window ledge for your cat to gaze from. There are lots of schools in the immediate area and lots of people walking dogs so cats have plenty to look at to pass the time.
Before moving to this wonderful space, my family and I had cats for 24 years. In fact, we always had two cats at any given time. I'm very feline-friendly and always enjoyed their companionship and their quirkiness. My work schedule is very flexible and mostly done from home so your cat certainly won't be lonely ... simply well cared for.

If you live on the UWS Jim would be glad to help you with your cat. He provides in-home boarding. Contact us with more information about the service you need. We'll be glad to help you.

Ross provides in home boarding in East Harlem

11/30/2019

We would like to introduce you to some of our caregivers. KITTY in NY has selected over the years some outstanding people who have one thing in common: they LOVE cats!

Ross is a friendly professional and lives by himself in East Harlem. His apartment is a tidy uncluttered and clean studio with a loft bed which opens up space and makes a cozy couch area underneath. He is a longtime cat lover - volunteered at a cat shelter in high school. He is really looking forward to enjoying the company of cats again. The apartment is on the third floor (walkup) of a cozy well kept building.

If you live in or around East Harlem and are looking for in cat boarding services we recommend that you connect with Ross. Contact us and send more details about your cat/s and the service you need.

Katie provides cat sitting services on the Upper West side, Manhattan

11/30/2019

We would like to introduce you to some of our caregivers. KITTY in NY has selected over the years some outstanding people who have one thing in common: they LOVE cats!

Hi, my name is Katie. I have 2 cats that are brother and sister. I rescued them when they were kittens, 2 baby kittens in a bucket, and they are now 14 years old. They are my babies and I understand the need to have your babies taken care of with love as you would yourself. I am starting to go through the different ailments that senior cats develop. One has asthma and the other has bowel disease and the beginning stages of kidney disease. I've had to change what they eat, how they eat, give them various medications and extra love. I have been a caregiver of cats for most of my life and absolutely love it.

If you need a cat sitting service on the Upper West Side, Katie would provide the best care for your kitties. Contact us and send more details about your service. We'll be glad to help you.

Carol provides in home boarding close to Union Square, NY

11/20/2019

We would like to introduce you to some of our caregivers. KITTY in NY has selected over the years some outstanding people who have one thing in common: they LOVE cats!

For over 40 years I have had the wonderful experience of having my loving kitties. I recently had to put my last kitty (Cookie) to sleep, which was extremely detrimental to me as I had her from 4 months to 19 years of age. At this juncture of my life, which includes retirement from The Board of Education of New York, I would just like to care for other people’s cats since I can’t handle the heartbreak again.

If you live in or around Union Square, NY and are looking for in cat boarding services we recommend that you connect with Carol. Contact us and send more details about your cat/s and the service you need.

Cat Pooping Outside Litter Box?

11/20/2019

There are dozens of circumstances that could explain why your cat isn’t hitting the litter box when they go, including behavioral problems and health conditions. We’ll outline the most common reasons why your cat pooping outside the litter box, what you can do to alleviate this issue, and more.

Litter Box is Too Small
One of the biggest reasons why a cat can take to going to the bathroom outside of the litter box is due to the box’s size. Your litter box should ideally be 1.5 times your cat’s size to ensure they have enough space to turn around and use it comfortably because a cramped or uncomfortable box can make they not use it.

Litter Box is Dirty
How dirty your cat thinks their litter box to be is a unique as the cat, and some cats may think their litter box is too dirty if they have a single urine spot in a clean box. Make sure you clean out any waste products every day or every other day, and consider switching the litter out and topping it up routinely.

Litter Box Isn’t in a Good Location
No one wants to have the litter box smack in the middle of high traffic areas or where they spend a lot of time, but a lot of tucked away corners can be scary for your cat. Place the litter box in a corner somewhere that isn’t dark, by the cat’s bed or food, and in an area where you cat can get to it easily.

Litter Box Has Difficult Access
Many older or disabled cats go to the bathroom outside of their litter box because of the box’s depth, size, or location because they can’t climb in and out without pain. If you have the litter box on a different floor than your cat spends a lot of time, maybe it’s too difficult for them to navigate the stairs to get to it in time to go to the bathroom.

Other Pets Guarding the Litter Box
In multi-pet households, you typically get more dominant personalities and more timid personalities. Some pets guard the food bowl while others guard their litter box. You want to make sure that your dominant animal isn’t preventing the more timid animals in your home from getting to the litter box when they need it.

Using the Incorrect Litter
With so many different litters available, it may take time until you find the litter that your cat doesn’t mind using. Cats tend to gravitate toward finely ground litter that is low dust and has little or no scent. Once you find a litter that works for both you and your cat, stay with it.

Litter Box Invokes Frightening Experiences
Has your cat had a hard time going to the bathroom recently, or did something startle them while they were going to the bathroom? If they have, this experience could invoke unpleasant memories and cause your cat to avoid the litter box.

Litter Box Isn’t Enough for Multiple Cats
You need more than one litter box in a multi-cat household, and each cat should have their own with an additional one to make sure there is enough to go around. Be sure to place your litter boxes in easily accessible spots throughout the house, and put one on each floor if your home has more than one level.

Litter Box Recently Underwent Changes
If you changed something about your cat’s litter box recently like adding a plastic liner under the litter or switched out the box, this could make your cat hesitant to use it. You may end up switching the litter box out again for something your cat prefers if they don’t get used to using it.

Medical Reasons
Maybe your cat has a medical reason for not using the litter box like they’re too fatigued or weak to climb in and out. If your cat suddenly starts going to the bathroom outside of the litter box and nothing else has changed, a vet visit may be in order to ensure your cat is healthy.

Long Fur
If your cat has long fur all over, they may find litter and waste debris getting stuck when they finish going to the bathroom. In order to avoid this, they might start going to the bathroom elsewhere until you clip their fur and stop their waste from getting stuck.

How to Stop Your Cat From Pooping Outside the Litter Box
There are several ways you can try to get your cat to go to the bathroom in their litter box. They include but are not limited to:

Change the Location
If the location of your cat’s litter box is around a high-traffic area, or an area with a lot of disturbances, try moving it. Find a quiet area where your cat can feel comfortable going.

Clean the Litter
If you only clean your cat’s litter every other day, switch to cleaning it once or twice a day to remove the more obvious waste products. You can also switch to a full clean and litter change once a week if you don’t typically do it this often.

Use Enzymatic Cleaners
Once an animal goes to the bathroom in a location, the scent will draw them back and encourage them to go to the bathroom here again and again. Enlist the help of an enzymatic cleaner to get rid of any leftover scents.

Try Using Covered and Uncovered Boxes
If your cat has an uncovered litter box and they don’t have enough privacy, switch it out for a covered litter box (such as a top entry litter box) and see if this cures their need to go to the bathroom in inappropriate places. If you have a covered litter box and your cat refuses to use it, switch to an uncovered one.

Add Litter Boxes
Even if you only have one cat, add a second litter box in another location somewhere in your home. Keep the same litter in both of the boxes, and monitor your cat to see which litter box they prefer.

Switch Out Litter
Your cat may not like the litter you have in their box, so you can pick out two or three different brands and try them in the litter box until you find one your cat likes. Try different granule sizes, scented and unscented, and non-tracking low dust options.

Bottom Line
It can take time to weed out why your cat is suddenly treating your home like their litter box and not going to the bathroom where they’re supposed to go. However, it’s possible to discover the root cause and fix it with a little patience.

Four Essential Strategies for First-Time Pet Owners

11/14/2019

Getting your first cat is an exciting adventure. After all, they can improve our quality of life and act as an endless source of joy every single day. Yet, we need to be sure that we are ready for that kitty to give it the best life possible. Here’s what you need to know about cats

Research your options

Cats make good indoor companions. They can be left alone for several hours a day provided they have some source of entertainment, like toys and enrichment puzzles. However, they still need socialization daily so make sure you have time for them. If you adopt a rescue then breed characteristics may be less defined but if you have a purebred please read up on them before you purchase them to ensure that the traits of outgoingness, skittishness, dominance, spontanaeity and friendliness are agreeable to you.

Home Safety and Cleanliness

You’ll need to ensure your cat stay safe in your home. Look at your house from their perspective to see what they might get into. Long curtains or the cord of your blinds, electrical wires, all pose choking hazards or can cause electrocution. You need to ensure they can't get into your cabinets, as they may eat something poisonous, spill a chemical, or accidentally consume medication that could make them ill.. If you have any plants around your home, make sure they are non-toxic. Cats are curious creatures and may bite at your cut flowers or knock over your decorative pepper plant.

Don’t forget that it’s important to clean up any messes your cat makes as soon as possible to prevent odors or stains from settling in. If you’re planning to adopt a cat, you might want to consider buying a self-cleaning litter box to make cleanup easier (these are available on Amazon for under $75).

Know What Their Dietary Needs

If you intend to adopt a kitten or an adult feline, check online for organic cat foods that are perfect for your furball and see what you can get locally or delivered (a 24-pack of organic cat food can be purchased online). You will want foods that focus on actual meat and it’s wise to avoid too much dry food, as cats do not often drink water, which can lead to dehydration.

Create a Lasting Bond

If you have a rescue, it may take time and effort for them to fully trust you. They may have difficulty being alone and might become aggressive over their food. If your new cat is particularly destructive, this could be because they are bored. Make sure they have plenty to stimulate them, especially when they are alone. No matter where you got your cat, or what life they had before, you should give them all the affection they crave. Positive reinforcement, grooming, and play habits can all help cats to trust their new owners.

If all goes well, you will have your new cat for the rest of its life. You want to make that life as full of love as possible — that is what every cat deserves. Be prepared, do research, and make any adjustments to your home to provide the perfect environment for your new kitty.

This article was written by our friend Penny Martin. Photo by Paul Hanaoke on Unsplash

Zu provides cat sitting visits in Williamsburg, Brooklyn and the surrounding areas

11/14/2019

We would like to introduce you to some of our caregivers. KITTY in NY has selected over the years some outstanding people who have one thing in common: they LOVE cats!

Hi, my name is Zu. I was raised 20 minutes from the capital of Poland, Warsaw, on the verge of a national park. We always had at least 3-5 cats and 3 dogs at home. The whole family would also take care of a colony of stray cats that would live next to our house. As a kid, I would always help feed them, clean up after them, and of course, play with them. Spending time with the colony was my favorite thing to do as a kid.

I moved to NYC almost 8 years ago to work in the fashion industry during which time I also became really passionate about psychology.

I loved cats since I was a little kid and always spend a lot of time around them. Now I have one cat living with me, a ginger girl my friend found in LES as a kitten almost 3 years ago. I also take care of a colony of around 10-15 stray cats on my street. I just feel happy caring about them with my neighbor, John and trying to find them homes. I live in Williamsburg and I enjoy yoga, meditation, pilates, biking along the East River and at McCaren park. I would love to take care of your cat when you are away for a weekend or more extended vacations and holidays.

If you live in or around Williamsburg, Brooklyn and are looking for in cat sitting services we recommend that you connect with Zu. Contact us and send more details about your cat/s and the service you need.

Nicole provides cat sitting services in Chelsea, West Village and Midtown Manhattan

11/4/2019

We would like to introduce you to some of our caregivers. KITTY in NY has selected over the years some outstanding people who have one thing in common: they LOVE cats!

Hi! My name is Nicole. NYC has been my first ever experience living without an animal in my home, so I've filled that void with cat sitting! Having been a cat mom previously, I can totally relate and understand the level of care you're expecting and hoping for while you're away. Communication, attention to detail, and enthusiasm are at the top of my priority list when spending time with your fur babies. I can appreciate the value in a daily picture or video while you're away, and ease of mind that they're well taken care of.

I am originally from southern California, and came to NYC 4 years ago after graduating from Hofstra University. By day I am a mechanical engineer in the private sector, and by night I am a horror tv/movie/book enthusiast. Love cooking and entertaining family and friends at home during the winter months and planning beach days in the summer. Look forward to getting to know as well as meeting you and your kitty soon!

Nicole will come to your apartment to visit your cat while you are away. She will create a care plan customized to your cat's specific needs. She will provide detailed daily updates with photos of your cat. Now you can travel knowing your cat is receiving the best possible care from a loving & nurturing cat sitter. If you live in the West Village or Midtown Manhattan, Contact us to book Nicole for your next trip out of the city.

Brittany provides in home boarding services in the East Village, Manhattan and cat sitting services in downtown Manhattan and the UES

10/30/2019

We would like to introduce you to some of our caregivers. KITTY in NY has selected over the years some outstanding people who have one thing in common: they LOVE cats!

Hi, my name is Brittany. I am originally from Alabama, currently living in New York City for the past 4 years. I have always had a love for animals, growing up with cats and later having dogs. From a very young age, I actively participated in the care of multiple cats growing up. Later coming to NYC, I’ve missed the time I’ve had with animals. I recently moved to East Village, to a clean and cat friendly apartment. I thought this would be the perfect time to house some kitties, given my schedule gives me a lot of free time to provide them attention and care. If you prefer to not board your cat, I also provide cat sitting services in downtown Manhattan and the UES.

I am a nurse practitioner at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. I enjoy running, cooking, traveling, and exploring NYC. Hope to have the opportunity to take care of your kitties!

If you live in the east village, Brittany is the perfect caregiver to provide in home boarding for your cat on your next trip out of town. Contact us with more information about the service you need. We'll be glad to help you.

Branson provides in home boarding services on the Lower East SIde, Manhattan

10/29/2019

We would like to introduce you to some of our caregivers. KITTY in NY has selected over the years some outstanding people who have one thing in common: they LOVE cats!

Hi! My name is Branson LB, and I've been taking care of cats my whole life. As a kid, my most beloved cat was an orange tabby named Amber. He was truly a member of the family as he was loving, cuddly, and would even fetch like a dog! Growing up with cats, I came to love cats while also understanding that every cat is different and has a unique personality. Soon after graduating college in Los Angeles, I began to foster and take care of kittens in my apartment, while also finding them each a forever home. Now, living in New York, I have recently begun to regularly cat sit in the city. It has brought me so much joy that I started to want to do it even more. I live in a minimal, modern junior one bedroom in the Lower East Side. It's clean and there is plenty of room for cats to perch, as well as plenty of places to tuck away.

I've been living in New York for about two and a half years. I previously worked at BuzzFeed as a video producer, and I now work as a freelance videographer and editor. In my free time I enjoy biking around the city, exercising, and reading in the park.

I hope I have the opportunity to meet you, and take care of your cat!

If you live ion the Lower East Side and are looking for in home boarding services we recommend that you connect with Branson. Contact us and send more details about your cat/s and the service you need.

Shannon provides cat sitting services from Fort Tryon Park to W72nd Street and also the West Village

10/29/2019

We would like to introduce you to some of our caregivers. KITTY in NY has selected over the years some outstanding people who have one thing in common: they LOVE cats!

Shannon grew up with 12 cats in a small town in Texas. She has always preferred to be surrounded by pets, whether they belong to her clients, friends, or her own fur babies. She is currently humom to a sweet grey tabby cat named Marlow, and a quirky toy australian shepherd dog named Bae Bae. You may recognize her fluffy orange cat, Skitty, in a viral meme from articles in sites such as Bored Panda, Cheezburger, and the Instagram page @cat_shaming. Skitty crossed the rainbow bridge in 2018 at nineteen years old, and is sorely missed. Shannon considers all fur clients her extended family and promises to love and care for them as her own. She has 2.5 years experience in pet care exclusively in the Upper West Side. Shannon works in the entertainment industry as a professional Actor and Cosplayer, and also works as a House Manager at the longest running Off Broadway theatre in the West Village (Cherry Lane Theatre). If you live in the Upper West Side, Shannon is the ideal caregiver for you!

If you live in the UWS then Shannon is the perfect caregiver to visit your cat/s in your home. You will receive an update after each visit. You can now enjoy long weekends and holidays knowing your cats are in good hands. Contact us with more information about the cat sitting service you need.

Halloween, keep your cat safe

10/14/2019

Halloween might be your favorite time of the year. Pumpkins, spookie decorations, horror films and candy. But it is a bad month for black cats. We have sadly read and seen the news about violent actions against black cats this time of the year. Some shelters noticed a surge in black cat adoptions before Halloween. That is why some shelters have a "no black cats adoption policy" before Halloween. They could just be used as Halloween props and then abandoned. Or much worse. Ritual sacrifice still exists, there are stories in the newspapers every now and then describing horrible scenes. Some could be dismissed as urban legends but the possibility is out there.

Black cats have had a bad reputation through history. Their darkest period was during the 12th and 13th centuries in Europe, when the supersticion about witches turning into black cats at will started. This belief crossed to America and during the witch-burning era (17th century), witches' cats were put into baskets and burned along the "witches". If you're interested you could read more about this in our article - Celebrating Black Cat Appreciation Day on August 17th

For all those reasons, please keep your cats indoors during October. Your neighbors might be wonderful but the traffic of strangers around Halloween increases. This makes it unsafe for cats to be outside, specially gentle cats who do not fear humans.

On Halloween night you might want to keep your cats in a quiet room to avoid the constant visits and ringing. Even the quietest and most social cat becomes upset with so much traffic, costumes and excitement.

Kitty in NY has wonderful caregivers available for your long term cat boarding needs. Your cats will be in a private home while you're away from the city. They will be the only pets in the apartment. We have great options in Manhattan, Brooklyn or Queens. We also provide cat sitting solutions. Book now your next cat care service. We'll be glad to help you with your cats.

Miriam and Andy provide in home boarding in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn, NY

10/1/2019

We would like to introduce you to some of our caregivers. KITTY in NY has selected over the years some outstanding people who have one thing in common: they LOVE cats!

Both Andy and I grew up surrounded by cats. Andy (from Philadelphia) is the youngest of 4 siblings and has lived with cats since he was a baby. I grew up with 3 sisters in Norway and had up to 5 cats at a time. We helped care for and clean up after our cats and have fond memories of all of the cats in our lives. Our earlier apartments haven’t been suitable for pets, but one year my roommate had two, and I realized how nice this city can be when you have cats to come home to. After getting married last May we purchased a beautiful pre-war condo apartment in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn. The apartment is clean, spacious, and minimal making it a perfect host apartment for kitties. We always spoke about bringing cats into our lives when we get settled. We might get cats of our own down the road, but right now helping out with temporary stays is perfect for us!

I’ve been working freelance as a makeup artist for 11 years and moved to NY in 2012. I met Andy at work where he does production and photo. In our free time we enjoy watching a play or a movie, biking around the city, yoga, and have friends over for dinner.

We are excited to get to know the cat owners in our new community :)

If you live in or around Clinton Hill, Brooklyn and are looking for in home boarding services we recommend that you connect with Miriam and Andy. Contact us and send more details about your cat/s and the service you need.

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REVIEWS

Argun - survey
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Miriam and Andrew were attentive to our cat's needs throughout his weekend stay. They emailed us twice with very well written descriptions of the cat's daily activities, as well as a video and photos of our cat to show that he had adjusted well to their place.

As to communications regarding drop off and pick up, Miriam and Andrew readily available via email to ensure seamless coordination. They provided an accurate and ample window of time for which they would be present, thereby relieving us of any undue stress in the event of city traffic.

Finally, our cat was content upon his arrival back home, and slept peacefully throughout the evening. Based on this and the above, we recommend Miriam and Andrew for future caregiving services.

Ellie provides cat sitting services close to the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens, Brooklyn

9/27/2019

We would like to introduce you to some of our caregivers. KITTY in NY has selected over the years some outstanding people who have one thing in common: they LOVE cats!

Ellie is 24 year old development working in Manhattan and living in Brooklyn. She has had a cat since she was three and now she has two (Irving and Seymore). She loves to play and spend time with cats and has been responsible for other people’s cats and watching them since she was in high school. She is reliable, and available often on short notice. She used to work for Kitty in NY in Hoboken but has recently relocated to Brooklyn:)

If you live in South Brooklyn and are looking for cat sitting services while you are out of town we recommend that you connect with Ellie. Contact us and send more details about your cat/s and the service you need.

Sharisse provides in home boarding services in Carnegie Hill/East Harlem

9/27/2019

We would like to introduce you to some of our caregivers. KITTY in NY has selected over the years some outstanding people who have one thing in common: they LOVE cats!

Hello, I'm Sharisse, a tender- hearted, kind, passionate soul who has a soft spot for animals & children. While I love ALL animals, CATS are my FAVORITE. I've always had cats in my home as a child- and, has HAD one for Eleven years as an adult living in my pet friendly apartment. Sharing my space, my time, and my love was very rewarding. It was a Blessing to have had the pleasure of knowing first-hand the true beauty of an animal's unconditional & unwavering love. And, that's why for me cat boarding is perfect, because I get to experience all over again the joy of a loving animal in my care for a length of time. Any time with a cat is PRICELESS!

I'm also a Licensed Child Care Provider. I've been a caregiver of children for over 15 years, and have established many great rapports with families. I am just a caregiver by nature. Whether I'm caring for children or animals, it is my true calling.

If you live close to East Harlem/Carnegie Hill and are looking for cat boarding services while you are out of town we recommend that you connect with Sharisse. Contact us and send more details about your cat/s and the service you need.

Coleen provides in home boarding services in Rego Park, Queens

9/27/2019

We would like to introduce you to some of our caregivers. KITTY in NY has selected over the years some outstanding people who have one thing in common: they LOVE cats!

Hello, my name is Coleen and I’m a native New Yorker that always loved animals. My father was a dog trainer so I grew up with a large number of pets…7 dogs and 6 cats. Even though I grew up with dogs, I grew a special bond to cats due to their intelligence, unique personalities and special healing properties. I love spending time with cats and have over 30 years of experience when it comes to caring for them from the domestic house cat to the extremely talkative Siamese. My apartment is large with enough room for them to roam around and enough windows to sunbathe all day.

If you live close to Rego Park, Queens and are looking for cat sitting services while you are out of town we recommend that you connect with Coleen. Contact us and send more details about your cat/s and the service you need.

Amazing Tricks to Calm Your Grumpy Cat

9/19/2019

Cats have strong personalities. They are not typical domestic animals. Calm your grumpy cat with these awesome tricks.

Amazing Tricks to Calm Your Grumpy Cat
Photo by Paul Hanaoka on Unsplash

Cats, unlike dogs, are not easily-domesticated animals. They have a high sensitivity to almost everything. The innate wild instincts of felines cause them to be super defensive and easily agitated.

Cats and dogs have different ways of handling stress and anxiety. Dogs are very emotional and appear to be fragile. Cats, on the other hand, tend to be offensive and outraged. But we cannot always conclude that cats are angry every time they are growling or when their pupils are dilating.
Knowing how to calm your kitty during grumpy situations help them de-stress and become more sociable. Try these amazing tricks to soothe your angry or fearful cat:

Get To Know Your Cat
The primary motivation of cats for displaying aggressiveness is fear. Sometimes, it is out of loneliness; other times, they are just craving for attention. Just like humans, cats get hurt when they are misunderstood. And as a pet parent, it is your responsibility to become acquainted with your cat.

Take time to observe your kitty’s behavior – when are they outgoing and when would they like to be isolated. Cats are constantly alert for danger, which makes them overly self-protective. Strangers, sickness, discomfort, and a noisy environment are the common things that trigger the stability of cats.

Cats do not trust anyone easily; not even their kind, nor people. The adaptation process takes longer than with dogs. And even after your kitty is tamed, their wild spirits never go away. But just be patient, and everything will be in control.

Make Your Cat Comfortable
Very human as they are, but cats also need privacy. They need a home within a home. Give your kitty a comfortable space in your house – somewhere quiet, safe, and has a fair temperature. Set up a cat bed and a blanket. Put their cat bowl near to them as if they are VICs (very important creatures) – lodging in a hotel with meals in bed (so sassy!).

Give your kitty a creative space; where they can play with their favorite toys, meditate, and roll around. Cats, just like us, need leisure and recreation for sanity.

Play with your kitty. Cuddle them, talk to them in a very relaxing tone. If necessary, sit down or lie on the floor when you approach them so they won’t see you as an attacker. It will give cats an impression that you are their friend; and that they can confide in you.

Photo by Ludemeula Fernandes on Unsplash
Trivia: Cats are most defenseless when they are in a laid-back position. So when your kitty is sleeping like this at home, it is a good indication that they feel secure. Good job, pet owner!

Keep Your Cat Healthy
Schedule a regular check-up with your kitty’s vet. Make sure they are free of illnesses and are groomed properly. Keep your cat physically fit; they tend to become obese when lacking regular exercise. And obese cats are twice grumpy than normal ones.
Let your kitty play with other cats, so they can practice their biting and scratching skills. You wouldn’t want it if they were doing the drill with you. Walk them around unfamiliar surroundings so they won’t be estranged anymore. In time, it will be easier for them to embrace their new environment.

Give Your Cat Some Time
There are moments when your cat will need complete isolation. They get stressed and anxious for no reason. Simply put, your little pet has mood swings. If so, give them peace. Let them stay in their secluded place and wait until they are ready to socialize again.

Do not ever punish your pet when they make mistakes. This will aggravate fear, leading to agitation and aggressiveness. Your cat will never be calmed if you can’t interact with them in the same way.

Let your kitty do their own thing, practice their habits. If you want them to follow a few house rules, gently teach them. Learning is never enjoyable when it is done harshly.

Photo by Yerlin Matu on Unsplash

Cats are always special. They have deeper personalities compared to dogs. Cats have trust issues; but if you can master the tricks above, then you are already a successful pet owner.

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About the Author:
Charles is a certified pet-lover who writes for RestoraPet.com. He, together with his wife, enjoys doing volunteer work in various animal shelters at his city.

Sarah provides cat sitting services in Lower Manhattan

9/7/2019

We would like to introduce you to some of our caregivers. KITTY in NY has selected over the years some outstanding people who have one thing in common: they LOVE cats!

Sarah has been a lifelong cat lover and has taken care of many of her friends’ and family members’ cats over the years while they have been away. Sarah grew up always having cats in her family and even received her own first cat as an 8th birthday present. Sarah has two special needs rescue cats of her own now – Holly and Melanie. Holly and Mel are very spoiled little girls - they even recently got their very own pet – a fish - that they love to watch in his tank.

Beyond loving cats, Sarah enjoys running, watching football, cooking and doing various kinds of crafting. Sarah and her husband recently moved from Los Angeles to New York City and are loving being on the east coast. She now lives in lower Manhattan with her husband and two cats. Sarah will take great care of our cats while you are away.

If you live in Lower Manhattan and are looking for cat sitting services while you are out of town we recommend that you connect with Sarah. Contact us and send more details about your cat/s and the service you need.

Three ways to cure anxiety in your pet

9/1/2019

There’s one person in your life more important than nearly anyone else, no not your spouse, your beloved pet of course. Your pet’s there for you regardless of what’s going on in your life, happy or sad, good or bad. So, when their little world starts to crumble, or when you start to notice them being more moody, sad or anxious, there’s nothing more important to you than getting to the root of their problem and solving their anxiety.

This can be a lot easier said than done. The difficult aspect about pet anxiety is that, like young children, your beloved pet can’t talk or communicate their problems to you. This makes getting to the root of the problem fairly difficult. While it’s always best to consult the vet first, the natural anxiety brought on from taking your pet to the vet can prevent them from getting to the bottom of what’s really causing the anxiety. If your pet’s anxiety doesn’t quite warrant a trip to the vet or vet trips haven’t been able to solve the mystery that is your pet’s anxiety, try one of these top three at-home tips to reduce your pet’s anxiety.

Get your House in Order First.This is meant both metaphorically and physically. Your own mental health and the structure and stresses around the home can have a huge impact on your pet’s mental health.

How your Mental Health Affects Your Pets Anxiety
Your pet sees and feels everything you do. If you have a bad day, they’re probably having a bad day too. You’re their whole life, so how you feel directly affects how they feel. By destressing yourself, you’ll positively affect your pet’s mental health as well. This also will be positive for you as well as it will make you more aware of your own mental health and force you to periodically check in with yourself. If you’re looking for ways to actively keep an eye on your own mental health, try meditation with the headspace app. It’s a great way for beginners to begin with meditation.

How your Home and the People in Your Home Affect Your Pets Anxiety
Your home itself and the people involved in your home can also have an impact on your pet’s mental health. For example, if you and your household all work long hours, your pet may get separation anxiety or anxiety simply from boredom as well. If you think that’s the reason your pets anxiety has increased, try using Wag, the dog walking service, to help break up their day and give them more attention. In addition, different guests and new additions the household and family can also cause pet anxiety; making sure to keep a schedule and slowly adjust it when change does occur can help to combat pet anxiety.

Try Natural Supplements.Lavender
Lavender is known for being a great way to calm and destress not only for pets but also for humans as well. It’s best used in a dehumidifier or as incense. The problem most people run into with lavender is that a lot of times it’s not quite strong enough to regularly use for strong anxiety.

Melatonin
Melatonin is a great way to destress and can really be a good solution to extreme anxiety for your pet when they need to calm down quickly. Melatonin, however, can be problematic as it promotes sleep and will cause your pet to sleep. So, if your pets’ anxiety is regular, melatonin might not be the perfect solution for regular anxiety relief.

CBD Oil/Chews
CBD is a newer solution to pet anxiety as well as anxiety as a whole, however, it’s fast proving to be a great long term/regular solution for pet anxiety (and your own too). It’s something that can be taken every day, is stronger than lavender, but won’t cause your pet to sleep either. If your dog has regular anxiety, this could be the perfect solution.

Play
Increased play time with your pet can relieve anxiety, increase your bond, and generally make them happier as well. While this might seem like a simple solution, it’s something that also can go to the wayside as the everyday intricacies of life begin to get in the way. People also think that as your catt ages, they want less play time, but that’s not the case. The more play time your pet has as they age, the healthier they’ll stay.

And in the end, your cat’s health is your top priority. By keeping them happy and their anxiety levels low, you’ll make sure their health stays in tip-top shape. And what could be more important for your very best friend?

Blog contribution by our friend Mollie Wilson

You still don't have a cat!?

8/26/2019

Cats are beautiful and amazing creatures. They will keep you company and will add quality to your life. Cats are very easy to care for and maintain.

Housebreaking takes about a minute. Just tuck a litter box with clean litter in an out-of-the-way spot in your home, and voila! Tiger is fully house trained!
You don’t have to give up being a clean freak. No need to worry about a dirty, smelly kitty rolling around on your carpet or your furniture. Healthy felines keep themselves clean from head to toe.
No guilt trips. Unlike your dog, who will drop his tail and look at you with a forlorn expression when you can’t stop what you’re doing to play with him, if you need to put your kitty off for a bit, she’ll wander away, not seeming to mind. You’ll find her later stretched out contentedly in her favorite napping spot.
You can stay warm, even in the dead of winter. As most folks owned by cats can attest, there’s nothing that compares to the coziness of a kitty curled up in your lap

If you're planning to add a feline to your family please visit your local animal shelter or cat rescue organization to find the perfect cat for you:

http://www.aspca.org/nyc/adoptable-cats
https://kittykind.org/adopt/
http://brooklynanimalaction.org/adoptable-pets/
https://www.anjelliclecats.com/adopt
http://www.animalhavenshelter.org/
http://www.humanesocietyny.org/adoptions/
http://www.bideawee.org/

And remember that you won't have to worry about your cat when you leave NY for a few days (or months). Our in-home boarding and cat sitting services are the perfect solution for your short/mid and long term needs. We have loving caregivers in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens and the Bronx. Your cat will feel like at home and you will receive periodic updates during the boarding. Book your next service in advance:
http://www.kittyinny.com/rates.html

3 tips for reducing anxiety in your cat

8/15/2019

Just like their human counterparts, pets experience anxiety and it comes in many ways resulting in uncommon behaviors such as ripping up furniture or defecating in strange places. They may also shut their self off to hide, become lethargic, or avoid eating. So, how can you help your best friend overcome their anxiety? First, you must know what causes anxiety in your pet.

What causes anxiety in pets

Interestingly, what causes anxiety in your pet is very similar to what may cause anxiety in you.

Environmental changes such as moving into a new home can be difficult for some cats. If this is the case with yours, leave them time and space, mots cats will get used to a new environment within a few hours.

Illness and age can also play a role. Common pet illnesses are hypothyroidism, Encephalitis, hearing of vision loss, and Thyrotoxicosis. These illnesses can either concern your cat who won’t understand the changes or may affect your cat’s disposition due to hormonal imbalances.

Here are three ways to assuage your cat’s anxiety regardless of cause.

Read the situation
While some cats are easier than others when it initially comes to reading the situation, over time you should be able to identify behaviors related to your pet’s concerns. Being able to read the situation will help you find treatments to reduce your cat’s stress. For example, if your cat is not comfortable with their food, you may need to change the food. If your pet is ripping up furniture, that may mean your cat is uncomfortable being alone. If your cat whines or meows at night, they may need the comfort of being in your bed or at least the same room.

Exercise and play time
Exercise is beneficial for so many reasons, and reducing anxiety is one of them. For starters, exercise stimulates the release of serotonin which is a chemical produced in both humans and pets that helps to make the body feel good as well as ease the mind. Exercise also helps reduce anxiety by expending energy which in turn reduces stress.

Sleep with your pet
Sleeping with your pet may not only reduce your cat’s anxiety, but research shows it may help you get better sleep too. Sleeping with your cat provides warmth, comfort, and love. These three components are also what both people and pets crave most when it comes to overcoming anxiety and depression. The bond created while sleeping with your cat is a great way to develop security for both you and your pet.

Anxiety in pets is not all too different from the anxiety you might feel. Remember, that a cat who is “acting out” may actually be looking for love and affirmation. To help reduce your cat's anxiety you need to know how to read the situation, exercise and play with your cat, and cuddle up whenever possible.

This article was written by our friend Krista Harper.

Introduction to cats: How to bring home a new cat when you have other pets

8/8/2019

You’re bringing home a cat you adopt from a shelter, but you already have an adult cat or a dog at home. When you put the two together in the same room, they are immediately hissing or growling toward each other. No matter what you do, it seems that they cannot get along really well. Frustrating, right?
Well, there are some steps you can try yourself for for introducing cats to a new home.

Article submitted by our friend Lily Clark

Are you curious which are the most cat friendly cities in the US?

8/3/2019

Redfin and Trupanion Name the 25 Most Cat-Friendly Cities of 2019

Feline fans rejoice: every day can be #Caturday if you live in one of the following 25 most cat-friendly cities for 2019, ranked based on data from Redfin, the tech-powered real estate brokerage, and Trupanion, a leader in high-quality medical insurance for pets.

Corvallis, OR; Spokane, WA; and Orlando, FL claimed the top three spots in a study looking at 250 cities nationwide.

To determine the ranking, Trupanion analyzed its data on access to cat-specific services such as clinics, shelters and hospitals, as well as environmental hazards like sago palm, a tropical plant that is poisonous to cats. Redfin calculated the percentage of homes for sale with cat-friendly features such as high ceilings for room to climb, an extra bathroom for additional litter-box options, and patios for those who’d like to utilize them as “catios.” Yes, that’s a patio for cats. To read the full article and to see where other cities ranked. please click here

Beatrice provides cat sitting services on the West Side of Manhattan, from W42nd Street to West 120th Street

7/25/2019

We would like to introduce you to some of our caregivers. KITTY in NY has selected over the years some outstanding people who have one thing in common: they LOVE cats!

My whole life I wanted cats but could never have any due to a parent’s allergies. Fortunately, New York City is full of cat lovers, and growing up in Manhattan, I was able to make cats a part of my life by cat-sitting for friends. I have seen friends’ cats grow from kittenhood to old age. Besides cat sitting for friends, I’ve been a dog walker and volunteered at animal rescue organizations, including a cat cafe where I socialized kittens for adoption. I’ve gotten to know cats with a variety of personalities, abilities, and ages, and am continuing to learn about cat behavior. I respect each cat’s way of communicating, and let them come to me on their terms.

I’m a native New Yorker. I studied film at Hunter College and am pursuing a career in animation.

If you live on the West Side and are looking for cat sitting services while you are away we recommend that you connect with Beatrice Contact us and send more details about your cat/s and the service you need.

Ali provides in home boarding services in Flushing, Queens

7/15/2019

We would like to introduce you to some of our caregivers. KITTY in NY has selected over the years some outstanding people who have one thing in common: they LOVE cats!

Hi! My name is Ali. I grew up with a calico cat named Bozy and have been living with cats ever since. I live in a modern one-bedroom apartment. I work Monday through Friday as a Customer Success Manager. I love coming home to cats to keep me company at the end of each day. My apartment has huge bright windows and plenty of space to perch on the window ledges. I keep a cat bed and scratching post in my apartment for all my cat visitors.

A little more about me, I’m originally from New Jersey and have been living in NYC since 2012. I studied Science and Music at The New School. I currently work at an education technology company providing support to teachers. I love snuggling up on the couch with cats while I watch TV or play video games. I’m also an avid reader and music lover. I can't wait to meet your cat!

If you live close to Flushing, Queens and are looking for in home boarding services we recommend that you connect with Ali. Contact us and send more details about your cat/s and the service you need.