Article written by our friend George @LifewithCatman
Photos by Manuel Keller on Unsplash

Monday May 31st is Memorial Day and many of us have the day off which is great, because we can spend time with our cats or helping cats. There are a lot of great ways to celebrate Memorial Day with your sweet kitty.

1.  Sleeping in
Cats love holidays like Memorial Day because their humans often have the day off and get to sleep in and cats love spending time sleeping with their humans in a big soft warm bed. Don’t rush out of bed on Memorial Day, spend some extra time cuddling with your kitty.
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2. Time to help cats
You can also take the time off from work to help homeless cats in your area. June is Adopt A Shelter Cat Month and Social Petworking Month so use this day so share some adoptable kitties on your Facebook page or other social media. Follow a new rescue group or two. Send out an email to friends and family encouraging cat adoption. You can make a huge difference and help cats find homes.

3.  Spring Cleaning
Having a day off from work means you can do some spring cleaning. Clean your floors and put away any chemicals or cleaners that could be toxic to your cat. Take a lint roller to the sofa! Take a look at your kitty’s belongings. Is it time to get a new litter box? Replace old toys that could be harmful. Donate your old supplies to a shelter and take advantage of all those Memorial Day sales by getting your kitty new clean gear!

​4. Grooming
Use the time off from work to groom your kitty. Give your kitty a bath if needed and brush out her fur to help remove that thick winter coat for summer.

Photo #1 by Felipe Forigo on Unsplash
Photo #2 by Александр Гросс on Unsplash

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 Rachel. I grew up with two cats and no siblings, so I devoted lots of time to reading cat books and magazines to better understand my furry family members. I’ve taken care of cats from kittens to seniors and love seeing their personalities change as they age. I work from home and can ensure your cat gets plenty of attention as well as space for nap time. In my apartment, your cat will enjoy having plenty of room to lounge on a sunny armchair or to chase a ball of yarn around, as well as a windowsill to safely watch the birds and squirrels in our tranquil backyard. I look forward to meeting your cat and keeping them happy and healthy until you reunite! ​

If you are looking for someone to care for your kitty while you are heading out of town, Rachel would be delighted to help you. Contact us and send us more details about the service you need.

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REVIEWS

Francesca - by survey
*****
Rachel was fantastic —Mia had a great stay with her (she didn’t want to leave!) and so accommodating—I really appreciated it during a somewhat stressful weekend to know I was leaving Mia in good hands. I would definitely love for Mia to stay with her again, especially because she went ahead and shared pictures of her when I had forgotten to check in. THANK YOU!

It takes a lot of patience and hard work to make a shy cat accept you. Some cats are shy when they meet humans. It is not clear why, but often rescue cats who have had unpleasant experiences with humans will develop into shy cat. Innate nature, stress, and lack of interaction with humans are also other reasons they are difficult to approach. 

If you currently have the same problem as this, it's a good idea to first read these 9 tips to build your cat's confidence. Because the wrong or too much approach can only make your cat more aggressive and afraid. Here are some ways you can help your cat:    

1. Understanding that it's not your cat’s fault for being timid or shy.
As mentioned above, when you bring a new cat home, that cat may have had unpleasant experiences or lacked interaction with humans. Hence, your cat becomes difficult to approach.  

A cat that hasn't been properly socialized can get scared and can even scratch the surrounding people. Therefore, you must understand the position of your cat. 
Keep accepting your cat as it is. 

2. Give your cat a quiet space. 
Shy cats will need time to adapt. So try to give them space where they feel safe. Thus, they can build their self-confidence while exploring the place. 

You can start by placing the cat in a room that is safe from the reach of people passing, of course, with all the necessities it needs such as a litter box, clean food and water, a comfortable bed, and other necessities. 
After they get used and comfortable with his small space, you can teach him to adapt to a larger space.

8. Be playful with your cat.
The eighth way to make cats comfortable with our presence by inviting them to play. If they are still difficult to approach, you can start sitting near the cage by giving them space. Use a stick or other cat toys you have. Call out their favorite names and let them come closer as they become interested in playing. 

9. Train the cat to spend time in the open room. 
When the cat is comfortable in his private room or near you, invite him to spend time in an open space. 

Real open spaces provide new experiences for cats, such as the sound of a telephone, people talking, or other strange things. 
Therefore, always pay attention to his reaction, whether your cat is still shy or shows his confidence. 

These are 9 ways you can build confidence in a shy cat. We hope it is useful. 
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Written by Odi from HenloCat.
Photo #1 Juan Goyache on Unsplash
​Photo #2  Ioana Cristiana on Unsplash

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!

​Now that I’m retired I have the freedom to travel. When I’m gone it’s usually for weeks at a time and thus I am unable to have pets of my own. So it has been a great joy for me to work for KITTY in NY these past 5 1/2 years where I’ve had the pleasure for sitting for about three dozen different cats—each with their own unique personality. I have especially enjoyed getting to know the owners of several of my repeat clients.

Known recently as Taylor Swift's cats, the Scottish Fold cat offers easy care and are comfortable with all members of the family.

Scottish Fold - At a glance

Weight range:                   Male: large: >12 lbs.
                                         Female: medium: 8-12 lbs.
Eye color:                         Blue, Green, Gold, Odd-eyed
Expectations:                   Longevity Range: 9-12 yrs.
Social/Attention Needs:   Moderate
Tendency to Shed:           High
Coat:                                Length: Short, Medium, Long
Characteristics:               Straight
Colors:                         White, Blue, Cream, Red, Silver, Cameo, Brown, Bluecream, Tortoiseshell, Black
Pattern:                       Solid color, Tortoiseshell, Tricolor/Calico, Bicolor, Tabby, Ticking, Smoke, Shaded, Spots
Less Allergenic:                 No
Overall Grooming Needs:  Moderate, High

The Scottish Fold is a medium-sized cat with medium sized boning. She is a very round looking cat.

The head is round and the folded ears heighten that illusion of roundness. The eyes are very round, bright and clear. The legs appear round, as does the tail in comparison to its length. The short coat is easy to care for. Some registries allow a longhaired version of the Scottish Fold called the Scottish Fold Longhair. Their longer coats can vary slightly in texture, and require regular care.

Personality:
The Scottish Fold is a sweet, charming breed.  She is an easy cat to live with and care for.  She is affectionate and comfortable with all members of the family.  Her tail should be handled gently.  Some of these cats are known to develop stiffness in the tail that can cause pain if it is mishandled or accidentally handled in a rough manor

Living with:
Care should be taken with the nutrition of the Scottish Fold.  This breed has a roundness about it to begin with and she should not become overweight.​ She is a good eater and is not as active as other breeds, so nutritionary control is critical

The Scottish Fold needs some interactive play with her parent in order to keep in good condition. While the coat is an easy one to care for, she appreciates being brushed as part of play.  As the Scottish Fold ages, play gently with the tail, moving it from side to side, and up and down. If any stiffness is noticed or if she appears to be in pain when the tail is manipulated, she should be taken to the veterinarian to make certain she is not suffering from arthritis.

History:
Cats with drooping ears or folded ears are ancient. The first word of one goes as far back as 1796. In this year, an English sailor brought back one of these cats when he returned from China. The Chinese also contributed the second example of a folded ear cat to the cat fancy history when one was noted in 1938.
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But the Scottish Fold as we know her today was first born in 1961 in Pertshire, Scotland. There, a kitten with folded ears was discovered in a litter of otherwise "normal" eared kittens. This kitten, named Susie, was then bred to domestic cats and British Shorthair cats to establish the folded ear. To this day, every Scottish fold can trace her ancestry to Susie.
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While the British established the Scottish Fold as a breed, she has never been as popular there as she is in the United States. Not only did Americans fall in love with this breed, but developed the breed into the beautiful cat she is today.
The Scottish Fold is difficult to breed. The folded ear cat must not be bred to another folded ear cat. Allowable outcrosses, in addition to a straight-eared cat, are the American Shorthair and British Shorthair. If two folded eared cats are bred to each other, the resulting kittens can be impaired to the extent of having difficulty walking. Even with this outcross, Scottish Folds tend to have small litters and not all of these kittens have folded ears.

Photo by Omar Ram on Unsplash

2. Negative Experiences
​Another reason cats may not care for water is because of negative experiences — or lack of experience — with it. If your cat’s only exposure to water was being trapped in a downpour, forced into a flea bath or squirted as a disciplinary measure, it’s hardly surprising that they’re not fond of it.

Felines that aren’t accustomed to water may also shy away from it because cats are creatures of habit and they typically don't enjoy surprises.  Cats that have received regular baths since kittenhood, or those that have warmed up to water on their own terms, may love to join you for a dip. However, trying to force a cat into water will likely initiate the animal’s fight-or-flight response, potentially injuring you and your cat — and making your pet wary of both you and H2O.

Photo credit:  Manja Vitolic on Unsplash

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!

​We are Sara and Mithat, a cat lover couple based in Williamsburg who are willing to lovingly dedicate their time to your cat friend. 

Sara inherited her cat's love from her mother, a cat lady who raised her surrounded by feline friends. When she moved to NYC, she could not bring her cat with her which is why she decided to get her cat love intake by volunteering at the Brooklyn Cat Cafe' where she gets to help, play and cuddle the kitties in need. 

We are available for home boarding in Williamsburg as well as home visits in Brooklyn and Lower Manhattan. 

Most pet owners view their pets as family members. Therefore, it can be stressful and upsetting when a pet is sick or injured, especially during non-business hours. While emergency vets are available, they can be expensive and inconvenient.
Online pet care and veterinary services fill in the gaps of pet healthcare by providing quick access to advice and treatment options via video consultations, phone calls, and live chats. Many also provide other types of care including nutrition counseling, behavioral training, and medication.
We reviewed several online pet care and veterinary services to recommend the best of the best, for you and your furry companions.

I. The Best Online Pet Care & Veterinary Services of 2020

Fuzzy Pet Health — Best Overall
Fuzzy Pet Health is designed as a one-stop shop for pet health, with on-demand consultations, advice, behavioral support, and products that supplement regular, in-person veterinary care for your pets.

AskVet — Best for On-Demand Care
AskVet provides 24/7 live chat access to licensed veterinarians, so when pets have an urgent need like illness or injury, their owners can get it addressed right away.

PetCoach — Best for Comprehensive Care
This forum-based platform gives pet owners access to expert advice from veterinarians on a whole range of pet-related topics, including medical and behavioral health issues, grooming, training, and more.

WhiskerDocs — Best Subscription Plan
WhiskerDocs is a subscription-based service that pet owners can use to get supplemental pet care from licensed veterinarians and vet techs, via email, phone call, or live chat.

VetLIVE — Best for Second Opinions
For pet owners who are looking for a second opinion on a treatment or diagnosis for their pet, VetLIVE offers virtual consultations with licensed veterinarians at an affordable price.

II. How We Chose the Best Online Pet Care and Veterinary Services

In selecting our top picks for the best online pet care and veterinary services, we focused on three key elements that are typically most important to pet owners searching for online pet care, including the services provided, whether they are available on an on-demand basis, and how they can communicate with veterinarians.

Availability
As many pet owners turn to online pet care and veterinary services during non-business hours like weekends and holidays, it was important to us to find services that are accessible 24/7, 365 days a year.

Services
When looking for the best online pet care and veterinarians, we took a close look at the scope of services they offer. We prioritized platforms that offered multiple types of services, including consultations, training, nutritional counseling, medication delivery, and more, so you can get all your pet healthcare needs met in one place.

Communication methods
Communication is key, especially when explaining what is ailing your pet. We focused on services that offer multiple communication methods, including video chat, phone call, live chat, and email, as well as the ability to send photos of your pet.

​III. The Top 5 Online Pet Care & Veterinary Services of 2020
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FUZZY PET HEALTH

Fuzzy Pet Health is a one-stop shop for pet health and behavioral support, products, and check-ups. It is designed to provide on-demand consultations and advice to supplement in-person veterinary care for your pets.

Regardless of where customers live, a Fuzzy Pet Health membership will give them access to personalized advice, virtual chat consults, and regular delivery of flea and tick meds. Fuzzy Pet Health’s veterinarians can also provide prescriptions for parasite medications when necessary.
Virtual video consultations are available for general questions, behavior or training sessions, and nutritional and diet concerns.

Customers in San Francisco and New York get an additional perk — on-demand physical exams. Subscribers in these markets can schedule a check-up at their convenience, and Fuzzy Pet Health will send a licensed veterinarian to their chosen location.

Fuzzy Pet Health offers different tiers of service with a monthly subscription. Their services are available via their website or mobile app.

Price Accepts Insurance
Other Features
Virtual Vet: $9.95/month
Essential Care: $12.95/month
Fuzzy Rx: $24.95/month
Virtual Vet Consultation: $25
In-Home Physical Exam: $150No– Mobile app
– Desktop compatibility
– 24/7/365 access
– More features at Fuzzy Pet HealthPros & Cons of Fuzzy Pet Health Online Pet Care Service
100
Overall score: 95/100

ASK VET

When something is wrong with your pet, you want trustworthy advice as quickly as possible, and it can be frustrating if you cannot reach your regular vet. That’s why AskVet exists.

This service provides access to licensed veterinarians 24/7 via live chat on a computer or mobile device, so if your pet is sick or injured, or you have another urgent concern, you can get it addressed right away.

A consultation with an AskVet veterinarian is $19.99, and on average lasts 20 minutes, although there is no time limit on chats, so you can feel confident that you won’t need to end your session until all of your questions have been answered. Signing up for AskVet’s services is as easy as entering some information about yourself and your pet.
Besides treating common household pets like cats and dogs, AskVet’s veterinarians have experience working with horses, fish, birds, and exotic pets.

PriceAccepts InsuranceOther Features
Per session: $19.99No– Mobile app
– Desktop compatibility
– 24/7/365 access
– More features at AskVetPros & Cons of AskVet Online Pet Care Service
Pros:

• AskVet’s mission is simple — provide a place where pet owners can get access to advice any time of day or night. Therefore, the main perk of this service is that people can use it during non-business hours, and on days like holidays when their regular vet office might be closed.
• Compared to some other online pet care and veterinary services, AskVet also has a relatively low price point of only $19.99 per session, especially considering that there is no time limit on how long a session can be.
• AskVet’s services are available to a wide range of pet owners, as their veterinarians at AskVet have experience with a variety of different animals, including less common household pets like fish, birds, and reptiles.
• Users can connect with a veterinarian and get advice on the go using AskVet’s mobile app.

Cons:

• Because of the nature of telemedicine, especially for pets, there are limitations to what AskVet can do for animals and their owners. They cannot diagnose conditions in pets, and a trip to an in-person or emergency veterinarian may still be required to get the comprehensive care that a pet needs.

What Customers Are Saying
VetLIVE customers say the service has come in handy for questions and advice. “I needed a second opinion, but my schedule wouldn’t allow for another trip to the vet,” says one customer. “ I couldn’t believe how quickly they responded! The VetLIVE doctors are compassionate people that care about animals.”
Scores
Ease of use: 90/100
Convenience factor: 80/100
Technology: 90/100
Personalization: 80/100
Overall score: 85/100

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IV. What You Need to Know About Online Pet Care & Veterinary Services
An online veterinarian service cannot replace an in-person veterinarian. Most services will clearly state that they cannot diagnose or treat pets virtually, unless they already have an established relationship with the pet.

​This regulation, known as the Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship (VCPR) is set forth by the American Veterinary Medical Association, which oversees veterinary medicine in the U.S.
In the event of an emergency, an online veterinarian may recommend taking your pet to see an in-person veterinarian for treatment.

This also means that in most cases, if your pet needs medication, you will have to contact your regular vet for a prescription.
These services are primarily meant to supplement the healthcare your pet normally receives from their regular vet, and provide you with answers and guidance in situations when you are unable to contact your vet.

I have two cats at home, one that we flew all the way from back home and another one we adopted here. I like to believe he chose us because one rainy day he decided to hide in our porch and we welcomed him to our home and it has been almost two years now. I'd love to take care of your cat as well as I take care of mine. ​

If you live in Queens, Nathalie would be glad to help you with your cat. She provides cat sitting services and in home visits. Contact us with more information about the service you need. We'll be glad to help you.

The term "Tabby" applies to a color pattern, not a breed of cats. The tabby pattern can be found in almost any type of domestic cat. You can find the tabby pattern in different shapes and colors: dots, stripes, swirls or in brown, gray or orange tones, as well as a combination of these shapes/colors. Tabby cats come in four distinct coat patterns: Classic, Mackerel, Spotted, and Ticked.

You can also find the tabby patterns as part of a completely different coat color. "Tabby point" Siamese cats have tabby coloring on their extremities. You can see the tabby pattern on some black cats when they rest under the sun.

The "M" on their foreheads is  the most distinctive feature seen in common on all tabby cats. Wild "cats" like tigers and cheetahs share this "M".

The behavior traits among different tabby cat breeds can be as different and varied as those seen in human beings of different locations. Most tabby fans agree on the following:

• Tabbies are extremely playful by nature. Good hunters, they love to play with their human friends.
• They love to hang around their "family" and are usually more attached to a particular person in the house.
• Gentle by nature. They love being the center of attention.
• Owners say that tabbies are very laid-back. They seem to be more intelligent than other felines.
• Always ready to play. Tabby cats are affectionate and cheerful.

Most people who had the chance to share sometime with a tabby know that there is more than just the color of the cat that's special.

​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!

​I've been a huge animal lover my entire life. I grew up with cats and dogs, and I was 5 years old when we adopted our first cat, Tommy. He was an energetic, friendly, gorgeous cat who I was bonded with throughout his entire life. Ever since I got to know Tommy, I knew I was going to be a cat person for good! When I moved out to live on my own, I adopted my best friend, "Twentynine": a sweet, talkative 11-year-old tortie with a big personality. She had been returned to the shelter several times throughout her life because she was very shy and fearful of people and would sometimes lash out if she felt scared, and it took me a while to earn her trust. But with some patience and love, she ended up being the sweetest, friendliest animal I've ever known, and her quirks make me love her even more. Making Twentynine feel safe and loved enough to relax and bond with me has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my lifetime. Our home together is warm and safe, and there's never a dull moment!

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My experience with Twentynine, the cats I grew up with, and all the animals I've worked with in the pet care industry, have taught me so much about patience, compassion, and the practical elements of caring for animals. I'm certified in feline and canine CPR and first aid. When I'm not working with animals, I'm finishing my degree remotely at School of the Art Institute of Chicago, or painting pet portraits. I can't wait to meet your cat!

If you live in Queens or Northern Brooklyn, Ry, would be glad to help you with your cat. He provides cat sitting services and in home visits. Contact us with more information about the service you need. We'll be glad to help you.

Several years ago, I was at a Thanksgiving celebration with my relatives. Most of the food had made it onto the dining room table, but for some reason all of the people were still in the kitchen or in the living room. We migrated en masse to the dining room and found the cat on the table. He was helping himself to the gravy.

It was obvious that everyone present was a cat lover. Several photos were taken before the cat was removed from the table. And we still ate the gravy.

If my pal Buster were allowed unfettered access to a laden Thanksgiving table I can only imagine the decimation that would occur to the dinner and the dog. Fortunately, cats aren’t as prone to extreme gluttony and subsequent pancreatitis and bloat.

However, cat parents might be wondering which Thanksgiving foods are safe to share with cats — and which foods they should avoid.

Thanksgiving Foods and Cats — Some General Advice
Your cat shouldn’t be up on your Thanksgiving table, but if you want to share some of your Turkey Day feast, here’s what foods are safe for her to eat. 

First, remember that any cat might have specific food intolerances or allergies. So even if something is generally safe for cats, it might not be safe for your cat. Second, remember that moderation is key. If you allow your cat to feast at Thanksgiving to the extent that I do, then your cat, like me, will probably feel ill after the dinner. Unlike with me, however, that feeling of illness might progress to real illness. And some things, as will be outlined below, might be mildly toxic to cats and therefore should be minimized.

Let’s look at specific Thanksgiving foods that are safe for cats:

Can Cats Eat Thanksgiving Turkey? 
Yes. This staple of Thanksgiving happens to be completely edible and delicious for felines. Skinless white meat is most benign, but most cats can handle dark meat or a bit of skin and giblets as well. I remember as a child my father would give a hearty helping of skin, fat, and giblets to the cat every Thanksgiving. I was worried that it could cause heart disease in the cat. I had not yet learned that fat and cholesterol do not contribute significantly to heart disease in cats, and possibly not in humans either. However, the fattier parts of the turkey are more likely to cause upset stomach, so go easy.

Can Cats Eat Gravy?
The cat I mentioned above suffered no adverse consequences from his gravy lapping. However, remember that gravy is fatty and salty. Moderation is key, and the salt could cause problems for cats with pre-existing heart conditions.

Can Cats Eat Mashed Potatoes?
I like to make my mashed potatoes with lots of garlic, onion, shallots, half-and-half and butter. It turns out that garlic, onions and shallots can cause Heinz body anemia in cats. And many cats are lactose intolerant, so the half-and-half could be a problem. However, garlic isn’t cyanide and half-and-half isn’t acetaminophen (which is massively toxic to cats). Most cats could survive a bite or two of my potatoes. And they certainly could tolerate milder, less rich mixtures. But I wouldn’t recommend serving up mashed potatoes to your cat.

Can Cats Eat Stuffing?
Again, garlic and onions could be a problem. And the bread laden with delicious turkey grease might cause gastrointestinal issues. It’s best to keep your cat out of the stuffing.

Can Cats Eat Green Bean Casserole? 
The green beans are no problem, but the canned onions are. This is a no-no for cats.

Can Cats Eat Cranberry Sauce?
Although it’s certainly not a part of a cat’s natural diet, it’s not toxic either. I learned in vet school that cats supposedly are not attracted to sweet items or tart items. My experience, however, has been different. I’m sure that some cats love cranberry sauce. Fortunately I doubt that any problems will occur if your cat breaks into yours, unless it’s so loaded with brandy that the cat gets drunk.

Can Cats Eat Rolls and Breads?
Plain rolls and bread should not be a problem. Garlic bread, on the other hand, introduces a risk of Heinz body anemia.

A Final Word of Caution on All Thanksgiving Foods for Cats:
For the record, I am not advocating that cat owners pile heaping dishes of Thanksgiving food for their cats. In fact, really the only food that I can unhesitatingly recommend for most cats is skinless turkey breast. But if your cat drinks a bit of gravy, or licks a bit of cranberry sauce, or noshes on a roll or digs into the lime Jell-O, you probably don’t need to be worried.Also, remember not to feel too sorry for your cat when you do not share your delicious Thanksgiving meal with her. She already no doubt has plenty for which to be thankful.

Photo #1 by Slavy Darozhkin on Unsplash
Photo #2 by Moon App on Unsplash
Photo # 3 by Andréas BRUN on Unsplash
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We enjoy the fall with pumpkins, spiced teas and lattes, colorful leaves and orange decorations. Unfortunately it is sad that some people prefer to hurt pets during this time of the year. Make sure you keep your pets inside, not only they'll be warmer but the risk of losing your beloved cat increases during this period. 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.

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 provides cat sitting and in-home boarding services. Cat sitting visits are a good option if you leave for a long weekend or a few days. A caregiver would visit your cat/s, taking care of feeding, cleaning and scooping. You will receive regular updates after each visit. Contact us with more details about the service you need.

Photo by Hannah Troupe on Unsplash

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!

When I was about 6, my parents took me to the pet store to get our first cat. I don't really remember who wanted the cat, but I was definitely excited. We got "Princess Spunkerella" that day and I never looked back! I was an only child and it was fun having playmates in the house to occupy my time when I was a kid. A few years later, my school's principal was giving away kittens and, after some begging, we got "Angel"... and then there were 2. Not long after my Dad wanted a few dogs so we now had 2 cats and 2 dogs... and then "Baby" came for my 13th birthday and from then on, we always had 3 cats in the house and 2 dogs... and while I don't have dogs in my little NYC apartment, I still keep the cat count higher than 1. "Rufus" and "Minnie" are my little monster twins (actual litter mates), who couldn't be more different!

Everyone loves to give and receive flowers, but not all are safe to all the members of your home. While some flowers are toxic to humans, they rarely cause problems since most adults don’t react to flowers by eating them. The same cannot be said for pets, who often munch on things that they shouldn’t. The ASPCA lists 407 plants that are toxic to cats, but most don’t cause problems because they’re either not encountered often or cats don’t seem to have a preference for eating them.

As anyone who owns a cat can attest, cats are quite finicky eaters, but are attracted to lilies for reasons unknown. This can often have tragic consequences as lilies are very toxic to cats. While the exact toxin has yet to be identified, it is so potent that merely ingesting some pollen or drinking the water that the lilies were stored in is enough to kill a cat within a few days.

Because of the potency of this poison and the frequency at which it occurs, no other plant causes vets more angst than the lily. To make matters worse, the general public and even cat owners are largely unaware of the dangers. One survey of cat owners whose cats were exposed to the toxin revealed that only 27% knew of the dangers beforehand.

As florists who sell lilies on a daily basis, we want to do our bit in raising awareness of this issue. 

​If you’d like to raise awareness too, consider sharing the below infographic. If you have a website you can embed it on your own page, alternatively you can choose to download our print friendly version and print it off so you can place it somewhere visible.

They don’t like children:
There is no doubt that Persian cats love children and human beings, but it can be hard to keep a steady relationship with young children who can touch it at the wrong places or annoy them when they want to be left alone or not touched. 

Many cats can change their mood in a blink but not the Persian cats as they have an attitude they like to maintain. The Persian cat can develop a set of personalities. One can be starting to become shy, especially when new people come into the house or if the environment they are put in is making them uncomfortable. 

To sum it all up, if you want to know more about your cat and their behavior, make sure to head over to Obey My Cat as they have great material to help you through any cat problem. Furthermore, Persian or no Persian, cats are beautiful creatures that love you in a different way and in their way, so be kind to them and love them with your heart because a cat may be a pet to you, but for them, you are everything.

Article written by our friend Taylor Starc at Obey My Cat
Photo #1 by Jaunathan Gagnon on Unsplash
Photo  #2 by Maxim Mushnikov on Unsplash
Photo #3 by Elias Barbouch on Unsplash
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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!
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Hi there! I'm Suzanne an UWS mom to an almost 5 year old daughter Dylan who dreams of becoming a veterinarian.  We are both cat lovers, and we would welcome some feline company. I am a French interpreter and actress, and have lived in the city for 15 years. We are eager to welcome cat guests to become acquainted with different cat behaviors and personalities. Our apartment -located in the UWS- is a large studio with south facing windows which get lots of light. Cats who stay here will get lots of love. 

Pets
We love our cats like our own children, and they’re a major part of the family—so don’t forget to eliminate their exposure to allergens as well. Your cat may also bring extra allergens into your home as they shed hair and dander, so you may want to take extra precautions when allergy-proofing your home if you have cats.16. Brush hairCatt hair and dander is a large component of dust, so regularly brushing away shedding hair is helpful when removing allergens from your home. Use a cat-specific brush that’s designed to really clear away excess hair, then properly dispose of it.

Quick tip: Have several lint rollers around your house to remove stubborn and itchy cat hair and dander from furniture, blankets, or clothes.

17. Clean toys
Similar to children’s toys, it’s important to frequently wash cat toys. It’s likely that they have rolled all over your home, collecting allergens along the way.
Be careful with cleaning toys as some may not be dishwasher friendly or machine washable. You will also want to avoid using harsh chemicals to clean cat toys. Many cat toys will have washing instructions on the tag. If not, there are many online pet owner resources that will give you step-by-step instructions on how to wash toys that will be safe for your cat to put in their mouth and play with.

When to get tested for allergies
If you’re suffering from allergies, it’s important to get to the root of the problem to help prevent reactions in the future. A simple, at-home indoor and outdoor allergy test may help you pinpoint the source of your allergy symptoms and find a solution quicker.Unmanageable symptoms like chronic sinus infections, nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, fevers, drowsiness, or any interference with day-to-day activities are signs that you should see an allergist, your general physician, and/or take an allergy test.

If you’re unsure about whether you’re experiencing allergy symptoms or suffering from a common cold or illness, it’s helpful to keep track of your symptoms daily. You can track when they occur, what you did that day, and how the symptoms make you feel. Below, you’ll find an allergy tracking chart that you can use to help identify the source of your allergies.
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Since we’re exposed to allergies almost every day, it’s important to stay on top of allergy prevention, especially if you or a family member are prone to allergic reactions. Leaving allergies unattended can be problematic as symptoms can worsen over time, so keep a close eye on how exposure to allergens may be affecting a loved one.
If the above allergy-proofing tips did not eliminate your or your family’s allergy symptoms it may be time to take an indoor and outdoor home allergy test, or speak with your healthcare provider to discuss options.

Medically reviewed by Sheena Batura MS, RDN, LD and Angie McLaughlin RN, BSN on May 11, 2020. To give you technically accurate, evidence-based information, content published on the Everlywell blog is reviewed by credentialed professionals with expertise in medical and bioscience fields.

Photo # 1 by Paul Hanaoka on Unsplash
Photo # 2 by Sarah Boudreau on Unsplash
Photo # 3 by Drew Hays on Unsplash
Photo # 4 by Steve Mitchell on Unsplash 
​Photo # 5 by De an Sun on Unsplash

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If you’ve ever moved with a cat, you know that it can be a stressful time for both of you. All the rushing around, packing and planning can make your pet feel uneasy.

With their routines changing, cats can feel unsure about their situation. When you move with pets, their scenery and smells change. This signals distress for your fur baby.

During this time, it’s important for you to remain calm and consistent. Remember that you are your pet’s most familiar anchor in the new home. If they are acting timid, unsure or following you around, you may need to be patient with them. Always remain confident, calm and consistent.

To help ease your furry friend’s anxiety, we’ve collected some of our best tips to help your pet stay relaxed during a move and adjust seamlessly to their new home.

Before Moving With Your Pet:
Cats will know something is up before the move. They will see you packing boxes and bags and can sense your mood. If you’re anxious or stressed about the impending move, your cat is likely to feel it too. There are several things you can do before the actual move to help your cat feel at ease:
 

• Prioritize quality time. Spend time with your cat before the move so that they are focused on you. 

 

• Sprinkle your scent. Spray a distinct scent, such as your perfume, around your home starting three weeks before you move. Spray this same smell in the new house before your cat arrives.

 

• Inspect your new space for danger. Check your new house for any poisonous or hazardous items like rat poisoning/traps

 

• Have a vet on call. If moving cities, research a veterinarian to have on call in the new city—just in case.

 

• Update the paperwork. License your cat according to local ordinances, update their identification tags and contact your cat’s microchip or registry to update your contact information. Don’t have any of those things? Learn more about them here.

   

• Crate train beforehand. If your cat will need to be crated during the move, ensure they are crate trained so the new situation doesn’t stress them out.

 

• Condition for success. Condition your cat by having a few boxes and suitcases out ahead of time, before the move. That way they don’t associate those objects with you leaving.

During the Move with Your Cat:
On moving day, it’s important to remember to keep your cat safe, calm and contained. Thousands of pets run away during relocations each year and many never find their way home. You can minimize the chances of this happening to your beloved companion and make their move a lot more enjoyable if you keep these tips in mind.
 

• Minimize anxiety with a toy. During busy packing activities keep your cat in their crates with a toy to keep them occupied.

 

• Ask for help watching your pet. If you need to, have a friend or family member watch your cat to keep them away from the hustle and bustle of moving.

 

• Build a safe space. Your cat may become scared when the moving boxes start to take over. Ensure they don’t run out the door by keeping them in a safe space where they can’t get lost or hurt.

 

• Keep them tagged. Make sure your cat has proper identification and tags on during a move, in case they get out.

 

• Medicate them if necessary. If your cat gets anxiety during the move, consider a veterinarian prescribed anti-anxiety medication or thunder shirt.

 

• Feed them lightly. Feed your pet lightly the day-of the move, especially if they will be in the car for long periods of time.​

Adjusting With Your cat After the Move:
Once you’re all moved in, it’s important to make your cat feel like they are home, too. There are several things you can do around your new place to ease any fears your cat may have about abandonment or unfamiliarity. You should send non-verbal signals that they are safe, loved and a permanent part of your new home.
   

• Introduce cats to one room at a time. When you get to your new home, introduce the new space to your cat slowly. Confine them to one room at first, then slowly introduce the rest of the house.

 

• Make a house a home. Place your cats bowls, bed and leash in the same room in the new house as they were in the old house. This will help make the new spaces more familiar.

 

• Stick around the house. Plan to be home with your cat the first few days after the move. At first, leave the house for short periods of time to see how they react. Then, when you need to be away from the house all day, your cat will feel more comfortable.

 

• Reassure them with treats. Leave treats and familiar toys with your cat when you depart the house, at least for the first few weeks.

 

• Get on their level (literally). Spend time on the floor with your pets. This will not only give them personal attention but will help your scent sink into the floor faster, making them feel more comfortable.

 

• Watch for signs of trouble. Observe your cat’s behavior. If they show signs of stress like refusing to eat, coughing or they have diarrhea, you may need to take them to the vet.
• Be consistent. Keep your daily routine as close as possible to the way it was before the move. Feeding, playtime and cuddle time should all happen at a consistent time.

During the move, remember to be patient with your furry friends. Yes, there may be accidents due to stress or changing schedules. But the more you are able to monitor them and, if necessary, restrict their movements, the less chance this will happen.

Finally, be careful not to correct your cat excessively, as that could just stress them out more. It should take your pet around three weeks to adjust to their new home. As you become more relaxed and comfortable in your new environment, your pet will too!
 
Article written by our friends at HireAHelper.com
Photo #1 by Qijin Xu on Unsplash
Photo #2 by Chris Abney on Unsplash
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According to Time, humans and pets have been bonded for at least 14,000 years, citing physical evidence of the human-dog connection. A 2015 Harris Poll study found that nearly all pet owners (95%) view their pets as family members. Our pets provide love and comfort, especially during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. It makes sense we’d want to travel with our pets, especially in uncertain times riddled with travel restrictions.

But traveling with pets today is more complicated. Travel alone places risks on pet owners, as seen by stories of travelers being separated from pets for months at a time. Reuters reports more than 1,000 pets are currently stranded worldwide by border closures and flight cancellations. In May 2020, ABC News reported that one woman trying to move back to Australia with her pets had spent more than $40,000 on travel and living expenses due to being stranded in the U.S. because of pet flight restrictions.

Traveling with pets by air these days can be tough, depending on the type of pet you have and where you’re going, but there are travel options with pets available. This guide provides an updated status on where airlines currently stand on pet travel and how to use a travel credit card to make the most of traveling with a pet, so you can successfully get to your final destination together.

Flying with a pet comes with certain restrictions depending on the airline. (Image by Stock)Flying with your petTypically, flyers have two options for traveling with pets: carrying the pet on the plane or checking the pet as cargo. There are some restrictions on types of pets that can travel on board, including dog breeds. For example, airlines like Delta never allow pit bull dog breeds as carry-on dogs on planes. Some airlines are more pet-friendly than others.

When pets are allowed as carry-ons, most policies only allow small dogs, cats, and potentially rabbits, guinea pigs and household birds. On the plane, a pet must be kept in a ventilated pet carrier that fits under the seat in front of you.

Traveling with your pet by car
Consider taking a road trip with your pet. The best way to ensure safety while on the road is to put the pet in a well-ventilated carrier or crate, or to attach the pet by a safety harness to the seatbelt. Get your pet used to the carrier at home before the trip, so they’re not as anxious once you’re on the road. You can also go on short drives before your big trip to get them used to spending time in the car in a carrier or with a safety harness.

When you’re driving with a pet in a carrier, ensure the crate is secured in the back seat so it doesn’t move around. Make sure your pet is wearing a collar with current tags. It’s best to have your pet microchipped as well.

You’ll need to have rabies vaccination records for crossing over state lines with your pet. Some states may require this proof at interstate crossings.

Take plenty of pit stops so your pet can go to the bathroom and walk around. Bring your own water and pet bowl for your animal to drink from, in case there’s not a water source close by or the pet is hesitant to drink from an unfamiliar water source.

If you’re traveling with a pet by rental car, be aware of the pet travel policies. Typically, car renters are responsible for any damage the pet causes to the car. To avoid cleaning charges, you’ll need to return the rental vehicle clean and free of pet hair.

Traveling with your pet by ship
There aren’t many cruise lines that allow pet travel for pets other than service dogs. When pets are allowed on cruise lines, they’ll typically be confined to a kennel, not a private cabin.However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends people defer travel on cruise ships worldwide because of the spread of coronavirus, issuing a Level 3 Travel Health Notice for cruise ship travel. Passengers who do travel by ship are requested to quarantine for 14 days after returning.

If you do take the risk of traveling by ship with your pet, the Humane Society of the United States recommends checking on your pet frequently in the kennel to make sure it’s protected from the elements.

There may be some small boat lines that allow pet travel. Enquire about specific policies before booking.

Traveling with your pet by train
Train travel with a pet may be a more viable and comfortable alternative than flying.  Amtrak allows dogs and cats up to 20 pounds to travel on trips up to seven hours on most routes. Pets must be in an approved pet carrier and must be able to sit and lie down without touching the sides of the carrier. The pet carrier counts as a piece of carry-on luggage.Amtrak also allows service animals to travel on board. Service animals must sit under the passenger’s seat at the passenger’s feet. Pet owners are expected to feed and exercise their pets at train stops.

The Humane Society of the United States reports some smaller U.S. railroad companies may permit animals on board as well. These include Alaska Railroad and the Connecticut CT Rail Shore Line East. Generally, non-service animals must be able to fit in small carriers at the passenger’s feet to be permitted on board.

Although no specific pet restrictions are noted, it’s a good idea to review Amtrak’s latest COVID-19 policies before booking.

The bottom line
If you have to travel during COVID-19, it’s understandable to want to bring your pet along. Pets are such a meaningful source of joy during stressful times. It makes sense to want to be close to them, especially as travel restrictions evolve. Being separated from your pet because of travel cancellations would be heartbreaking. Plus, it can get expensive figuring out how to reunite.

Avoid complications with pet travel by carefully researching pet travel policies with your preferred mode of transportation. It can help to work with a travel adviser, so you have backup plans in place in case plans fall through.

Ensure your pet is up to date on all immunizations before you travel and that you have the proper paperwork to show vaccination proof available on your trip. Get your pet used to travel beforehand by exposing them to elements like a pet carrier and rides in the car. Always prioritize your pet’s safety and carefully consider the value of travel and how it will affect your pet before you book. With proper preparation, it’s possible to plan a trip with your pet during COVID-19.

Article submitted by our friend Tatiana Rosada Vidal @ www.MillionMileSecrets.com 
Photo #1  by James Yarema on Unsplash
Photo #2  by Timothy Meinberg on Unsplash
Photo #3  by  Li Lin on Unsplash
Photo #4 by  Ben Thai on Unsplash