A healthy diet is crucial for your cat to live an active and long life. However, your feeding efforts may go to waste if you ignore the safety and hygiene of feeding containers.

Your pet’s health depends on the kind of container or bowl you use and how frequently you clean them.

Feeding bowls come in a variety of materials, from plastic and ceramics to stainless steel. Which one of them is the best for use as a feeding bowl?

This article gives an in-depth guide that will help you to choose the right material for your cat’s feeding bowl.

Stainless Steel Bowls

Advantages

• Sturdy and can’t be broken into small harmful pieces, making it safe to chew on for your pet.
• Can also be reused several times, reducing the need for buying multiple bowls for long periods.
• Stainless steel is non-porous. This means that there are no tiny holes on its surface, where tiny bits of food can seep into and become stuck. Thus, the material acts as a shield, preventing the buildup of harmful bacteria on its surface. 
• The steel bowls can be easily sterilized by placing them in boiling water, killing germs. After use, you can clean them easily with dish soap and water or place them in a dishwasher. However, stainless-steel bowls shouldn’t be cleaned with rough materials such as steel wool, as it can create scratches, making a breeding ground for bacteria.
• Stainless-steel bowls don’t release toxic chemicals.

Disadvantages

• Come in a variety of models, which can make it a bit difficult to buy a stainless-steel bowl of good quality. Some steel bowls even consist of lead which makes them toxic for use as a feeding container.
• Luckily, We Love Doodles has enlisted high-quality stainless-steel bowls at a reasonable price that pet owners can use as a feeding bowl.

Ceramic Bowls

Advantages

• Are heavy, making it easier to feed pets who can easily knock out lightweight bowls when eating.
• Can rinse ceramic bowls easily with dish soap and water.
• Ceramic bowls with properly polished surfaces are recommended as they don’t consist of crevices or cracks where bacteria growth is prominent.

Disadvantages

• Bowls made of ceramic material are delicate, making it easy to break them, creating a choking hazard. Your cat can accidentally swallow a small broken piece while eating, which can damage its digestive tract or cause other digestion problems.
• Some ceramic bowls are polished with lead-based paints. Such ceramic bowls can’t be used for food consumption as they can cause lead leaching into food items. Lead is a toxic chemical for all living things. If consumed in small amounts, it can inhibit the development of the nervous system in kittens. Large amounts may result in damage to the nervous system, kidneys, and even the digestive tract. Lead poisoning can cause your cat to show anaemia-like symptoms, including lethargy.
• Ceramic material is brittle and can easily get cracks and crevices on its surface. These features serve as a breeding ground for bacteria, where they can easily multiply and spread. Even proper washing and rinsing won’t be able to exterminate all of the bacteria as it only occurs at the surface.
• The material is also porous, meaning tiny food particles can seep into minute holes, increasing the likelihood of bacterial growth on the surface of the bowl.

Plastic Bowls

Advantages

• Are very cheap, making it easier for pet owners to use, dispose of, and buy new plastic bowls for their pets.
• Plastic bowls are sturdy. They won’t break easily even if they fall from a height or are kicked by your pet.
• Are safe to be washed in a dishwasher.

Disadvantages

• With rough handling, scratches can appear on the surfaces of plastic bowls over time. These scratches provide enough space for bits of food to get stuck into them. Such conditions provide a robust environment for bacteria to multiply on the surface of the bowl.
• Even thorough washing with soap can’t help to eliminate all the bacteria that hides within these cracks and scuffs. Placing your cat’s food in such bowls can rather induce a negative impact on its health. Germs can spread within the food and can cause food poisoning if eaten by your cat.
• The buildup of germs on plastic surfaces can cause allergic reactions on your cat’s chin. If you notice swelling or black dots on your cat’s chin, take it to the vet for getting diagnosed.
• Several plastic materials consist of a dangerous chemical called BPA (Bisphenol A) which can leach into food items. Even in small quantities, it can cause your cat’s health to deteriorate. The toxic chemical can disrupt the normal functioning of the endocrine and reproductive system. This creates adverse impacts on the brain and the circulatory system of mammals and has the potential of causing cancer.
• Plastic material consists of phthalates, a group of chemicals used for increasing the durability of plastic items. Phthalates are harmful to animals and can result in abnormalities in their reproductive system. It can leach into food items when placed in plastic containers.
• If your cat tends to chew on its feeding bowls, small bits of plastic can break off and be swallowed by your cat while eating. This can lead to intestinal blockage.

Conclusion for Cat Bowls

When it comes to selecting a feeding bowl for your cat, choose the material type that is safe for chewing, is durable, and doesn’t host any kind of harmful chemicals.

While plastic bowls are cheap and can’t break easily, they pose a risk of tiny bits being swallowed by your pet that can come off while chewing.  Ceramic bowls are heavy to move and can work for pets that are playful with their food bowls. This makes stainless-steel bowls the safest option as they have a non- porous surface, making it difficult for the buildup of bacteria.

Courtesy of Myrah Abrar MBM Blog Article Author

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.
​

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

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. 
​
Written by Odi from HenloCat.
Photo #1 Juan Goyache on Unsplash
​Photo #2  Ioana Cristiana on Unsplash

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
​
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

​

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.

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.

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

Anyone who has ever met a cat knows that they deserve the height of luxury. Or, at least, they certainly think they do. Granted, luxury may look different for different cats — for some, it may be an extra-plush cat bed, for others, unlimited access to paper bags — but regardless, they have certain expectations. Many cat owners are perfectly happy to provide. However, giving your cat the life of luxury to which they aspire isn’t always easy on the budget. Here are a few ways you can pamper your cat and your wallet, too.
​

Shop Smart

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when it comes to pampering your pet is assuming that the more expensive an item, the better it is. The reality is that you can often find great deals on high-quality items through big-box retailers such as Target.

Not only do these kinds of retailers often offer a variety of quality goods, but they also are often able to provide discounts and services that other locations don’t. According to these 17 tips for saving at Target, you can use the official Target app to know when they’re running a sale or have coupons available for the things you need. You can also use Target Restock to get household essentials, such as litter, shipped to your home with next-day delivery. You can’t get these kinds of services everywhere, so take advantage where you can.
 
Focus on Nutrition

Not all cat foods are equal. One of the best things you can do for your cat is to make sure you’re giving them all the nutrients they need. Take a look at the ingredients in your pet’s food; if the first item listed is some sort of grain, you can probably find something better for them.

Cats are obligate carnivores, which means their diet needs to be made up primarily of meat. Try to find a food source that lists meat as its primary ingredient. It’s okay for the food to contain some grains and veggies — these are a useful source of needed vitamins — but they shouldn’t be the majority of the recipe.

High-quality food is usually a little pricier, but you may wind up seeing a good return on investment. Cats that get a proper nutrient balance are less inclined to develop expensive chronic health issues. Vet bills and medication can take a big chunk out of your budget, and good food is a great form of preventative care.

Cove Litterbox

Cove is a simple and beautiful litterbox with an integrated scoop, dustpan. Built by furniture designers, engineers, and cat behaviorists. Kickstarter special is $99 (with a super early bird special of $89 on launch day January 14th). 

​https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/tuftandpaw/cove-a-beautiful-litter-box-made-from-recycled-plastics
​

Story

We’re a small team of furniture designers, engineers, and animal behaviorists and we’re obsessed with cats. Jackson Cunningham is the founder with 10+ years in ecommerce and product development, Steve Suchy is our head of product - with over 10 years experience in high end furniture design. Grace Partridge is our head of brand (ex. Art Director at Article Furniture). Marci Koski is our cat behaviorist.

I knew from the beginning that we needed to launch a beautiful litterbox - but we went through so many iterations - debating between automatic vs simple and ultimately landing on a very simple solution.

If you ask any cat owner they’ll tell you the most annoying part about owning a cat is the litterbox. It’s something that you interact with every day, yet it’s a hassle to clean, and the available options are really bad.

You either get a simple but really ugly plastic bin that looks like it came from the dollar store. Or you get some space-aged robot that's huge, loud, and prone to breaking.

We just wanted a litterbox that was simple, beautiful, and easy to clean. But nothing existed - so we designed one ourselves.

Product Details

Cove is a beautiful litterbox kit with an integrated scoop and dustpan, built by furniture designers, engineers, and animal behaviorists.

After in depth user research, we discovered the most important feature of a litterbox is that it should be easy to clean. Yet many litterboxes have shapes and materials that don't align with this. Cove's shape is incredibly simple and open - there are no unnecessary bends or hard-to-get-to corners. For the material itself, we considered a variety of options, but ultimately landed on plastic because it’s durable and especially easy to clean. 

Most plastic litterboxes are flimsy and have a cheap finish, but Cove uses a double wall and slightly textured outer matte plastic that looks and feels sturdy, and is pleasant to the eye. The inside of the box is smooth, and easy to clean with a single wipe. Contrasting silicon rubber at the base keeps the box firmly planted to the floor and prevents sliding when your cat goes in and out.

One thing we found during our research was that the litterbox tools are as important to user satisfaction as the box itself. Yet, most litterboxes include, as an afterthought, a cheap flimsy scoop that ends up just being tossed on the floor beside the box. Another common user frustration is the litter scatter caused by a cat’s coming and going.

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.

• 1. Adopting a Cat
  • 1.1. Be Picky About the Shelter
  • 1.2. What to Buy Before Adopting a Cat
  • 1.3. How to Tell How Old a Cat Is
  • 1.4. When are Cats Fully Grown
  • 1.5 How to Get a Cat to Like You
• 2.  Natural Behavior of Cats
• 3. Assessing Your New Cat and Other Pets Behavior
• 4. How to Deal with Aggressive Cats
  • 4.1. How to Calm Down an Aggressive Cat
  • 4.2. Understanding Cat’s Body Language
  • 4.3. Spending Time with Your Cat
  • 4.4. Ask for professional Support
• 5. Jackson Galaxy’s Way to Introduce Your New Cat to the Other Cat
  • 5.1. Setting up a basecamp
  • 5.2. Other Side of the Door Feeding
  • 5.3. Introducing the Two
  • 5.4. Play Together with Both Cats
  • 5.5. Warning Signs when Introducing Cats and Resolving the Conflict
• 6. Introducing New Cat to the Resident Dog
  • 6.1. Pet’s State of Mind
  • 6.2. Setting Up a Safe Haven
  • 6.3. Introduction
  • 6.4. Reward for Calmness
  • 6.5. Play together with Both Cat and Dog
  • 6.6. Resolving Conflict
• 7.    Conclusion

Article submitted by our friend Lily Clark
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Keeping Them Active

Regardless of your cat's age, staying active is vital to their physical and mental well-being. Getting them moving might involve toys or towers, but a “catio,” or cat patio, could also be beneficial. A catio is located outdoors and safeguards your furball from escape attempts and outside dangers without being too restrictive. It can provide a space to counter boredom and might stimulate instincts by letting them observe birds or play around in fresh air. You could make your own catio, but there are pre-assembled kits which can be set up quickly. With the right environment, your senior cat can stay active and secure.

Making Floors Safer

Carpet-free flooring has become increasingly popular, but it could make it harder for your senior companion to get around. So, consider how well your feline walks on surfaces like laminate, vinyl, or hardwood; if they are struggling or lose balance, you could use slip-free rugs. In fact, some carpet is now designed to diminish odors and be stain-resistant. Of course, you must factor in your feline's habits before choosing flooring, especially if they have a tendency to scratch. This issue can affect other materials, such as cork, which can also be easier on arthritic pets. When choosing suitable flooring, you help your buddy navigate the home safely.

Seeing the changes that come with an aging cat can be hard, but that doesn't alter the love we have for them. So, adapt your house to give them an environment that keeps them safe and healthy. With suitable changes, you can give your cat the support they deserve.

This article was written Penny Martin at Fureverfriend
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​Now's your chance to get some awesome custom cat socks for 25% off! 

You can quickly and easily put photos of your cat(s) on a comfy pair of socks. They're perfect for gifts to friends and family, but don't forget to get a pair for yourself!

In collaboration with a popular cat blog, Floppycats, these socks are brought to you by a company called OurSock.com. Their team of designers will take care of all the work for you, so all you need to do is upload a photo of your cat, and they'll do the rest.

Here's how to claim your 25% off discount:

1. Go to: https://www.customize.oursock.com/collections/frontpage/products/cat-socks

2. Upload a photo of your cat

3. Use the coupon code: KITTYINNY for 25% off during checkout. 

4. You'll get your socks in ~10 days!

Kitty in NY helps you connect with cat sitting and in-home boarding solutions:

• In-home boarding is recommended for longer periods or very social cats who require a lot of human interaction. Your cat lives at the caregiver's apartment. She will be the only pet in the apartment. You may visit and meet the prospective caregiver before you confirm your reservations. Our in-home boarding rates are online (agency fee included).
• Cat sitting visits to your apartment. Our cat sitting visits include feeding, water refill, cleaning of all bowls, scooping litter box (change of litter when needed), cleaning of feeding and litter box areas, playtime and petting when cats are willing to interact and photo/video updates after each visit. A 30 min visit would be $35 (agency fee included).

Your cat provides a daily dose of comfort and companionship, so it’s only natural that you would want to prevent your pet from becoming sick or injured. Luckily, there are simple solutions for keeping your cat healthy and happy every single day. Here are six steps to ensure a long, loving life for your feline friend.

Keep Teeth and Fur Clean
You brush your teeth twice a day, but have you thought about brushing your cat’s? There are a plethora of serious health problems that can be caused by poor pet oral hygiene, including a shortened lifespan. You can prevent these serious issues by regularly cleaning your cat’s teeth.

It’s also a good idea to talk to your vet about routine cleanings and other ways they can help remove plaque from your cat’s teeth. Take a few moments to take care of other grooming as well and check for any suspicious lumps or spots that could be of concern.

Take Care of Pests and Parasites
If you’ve ever had a flea problem, you know how annoying those little bites can be, but did you know that they can also spread diseases? Use a flea preventative or proper precautions to keep fleas off of your pet. 

Also, be sure to schedule regular exams to check for intestinal parasites that your cat can pick up from the yard or other pets. Fleas, ticks and worms are much easier to treat and manage if they are caught early.

You can find more information on cat flea treatments in this article: https://www.reviews.com/flea-treatment-for-cats/

Find the Right Food
Not all cat food is created equal, not all cats require the same kind of nutrition. Keep your cat’s lifestyle and health in mind when selecting food and treats. There are a wide range of products available to help manage common cat concerns, like sensitive stomachs or skin allergies. Try to avoid feeding only dry food, as this can lead to urinary tract infections, which are a serious issue for felines.

Pay Attention to Litter Boxes
Cats tend to be clean animals, so help them out by keeping their litter boxes neat and tidy through the week. Make sure boxes are large enough for your cat to comfortably move around in and scoop them out at least once or twice a day. In addition to removing unwanted odor and waste, regularly checking your cat’s litter box can alert you to possible illnesses. If you notice your cat isn’t going as often as usual, or if she has trouble going or if her waste doesn’t look normal, it may be time to consult a vet.

Provide Plenty of Exercise and Activity
Obesity is a serious concern for all pets, but indoor cats are especially prone to weight problems. A sedentary lifestyle can lead to more than a few extra pounds, with diabetes, heart disease and joint problems being some very serious side effects of even a little extra weight.

Provide plenty of opportunity for your cat to exercise with cat trees and tantalizing toys. If you and your cat are up for it, you may even consider adding another cat to help increase activity.

Make Sure Medical Costs are Covered
You can develop daily routines to help keep your cat safe and healthy, but sometimes issues still come up. Veterinary costs can be expensive, so take some of the stress off of yourself by investing in pet insurance. Getting insurance for your cat may seem like just an extra expense, but having peace of mind when your cat needs medical help is well worth the minimal monthly costs. Look for a plan that fits your budget and your cat’s needs and take some of the guesswork out of getting routine or urgent care for your pet.

With all of the joy cats bring to our lives, it only makes sense to do everything possible to keep them comfortable and content. A few minor measures can add years to your cat’s life and precious moment to the time you have to spend together. So take these simple steps to keep your best friend happy and healthy for a lifetime.

Author

Ms. Brody created OurBestFriends to offer a place for animal lovers to share their favorite pet photos and stories about their furry pals.

If you need a cat sitting or in-home boarding service for your cat/s, Kitty in NY can help you connect with the best caregivers in your area. Contact us and send more details about your cat and the service you need.

​Which one makes a better pet? Males or females? This is still one of the questions many cat people discuss. There are strong opinions on both sides. After some consideration the bottom line is that personality is what really matters.

Let's review some of the debating points:

• Many of the arguments are based on non fixed animal behaviors. All indoor only cats should be neutered or spayed. A neutered/spayed cat makes a better pet! Non fixed males tend to roam further and are very territorial (spraying to mark the boundaries). They can also be more aggressive towards new cats and get into fights that can lead to very expensive vet bills. Intact females go into heat every few months, their sole purpose in life is to breed and multiply. It has a toll on her health and her personality won't be loving, all they want is to be alone and have some peace...
• A neutered male will make a loving pet. They tend to be (by nature) more territorial, but they are usually calmer and happier. Family, breed, early socialization are also important factors. And not all cat owners want a lap cat, some prefer a more independent pet!
• A spayed female might redirect some of her mother instincts towards the human who shares her apartment. It was not a meditated choice but all my cats have been females. I have had very sweet cat companions and some that were more challenging but all in all, cat people understand cats and respect their personality. That is what makes cats special, each of them will develop a routine, a character, will have good and bad days, like us, humans. When you get a skittish cat to trust you, look for you and to sit close to you on the couch to watch your favorite tv show can be very rewarding!

I should start by pointing this out. The exact cause of diabetes in cats is not known. However, scientists and professionals see a connection between a cat being obese and overweight and it being diabetic. Overweight and obese cats are highly susceptible to developing diabetes. This is probably being overweight makes your cat increasingly less sensitive to the effects of insulin. 

Additionally, you should note that adult and older cats are more inclined to develop diabetes, as they also are prone to being overweight courtesy of their inactive tendencies.

That said, once I owned a cat that was diagnosed with diabetes (it is now no more, passed on of old age). I can still remember my shock and fear when I heard the news. The same is true for every cat parent. Diabetes symptoms include increased urination, lethargy, increased thirst as well as a loss of appetite. You cat will urinate urine that is sticky since it contains lots of sugars excreted from its body. If you do not treat the condition, it may lead to your cat’s death. But with treatment, your cat can lead a long, healthy and happy life like a normal cat. Following the diabetes diagnosis by a professional, you might have to give our cat regular shots of insulin as well as feed your cat on the best diabetes diet for cats to help manage the

Feeding Diabetic Cats
At this point, seeing that you are a caring parent eager to learn everything there is about your cat and the right feeding habits, you know that cats need animal meat in their diet. They require more meat than dogs do as they are not great in breaking down starch and carbs as dogs can. The case is even worse in diabetic cats.

The body of a diabetic cat faces a lot of difficulty in digesting and absorbing the sugar and glucose into the cells. Glucose as such builds up in the bloodstream to harmful levels. It only, therefore, makes sense to feed your cat on a diet with less starch to avoid straining your cat's body.

Research conducted shows that diabetic cats benefit greatly from diets rich in protein as well as fats but low in carbs. Kitten foods are great for this as they are rich in protein. In addition to kitten food, some professional vets may proceed to prescribe starch blockers like acarbose, which prevents the digestion of starch. This drug is, however, acquired only through a vet's prescription.

If you are keen on following a strict low carb/high protein diet for your cat living with diabetes, you should also consider canned cat food.  These are designed to be low in carbs and high in protein in comparison to dry cat food.

Alternate Diet For Diabetic Cats
Aside from low carb and high protein diet, there is yet another diet perfect for diabetic cats. This is the high fiber diet. Cat foods that are high in fiber tend to slow the absorption as well as metabolizing of fat and glucose. This is to mean that on a high fiber diet, your cat will not have a high glycemic right after eating. A high fiber diet is also best to feed to overweight and obese cats. Your cat will have a feeling of being full  for a longer period thus leading to reduced calorie intake. How does a high fiber diet achieve this? Well, for starters, it contains complex carb, which a cat's body tends to break down slowly. The slow digestion causes a reduced spike in glucose levels and the feeling of satisfaction for longer.

But before you jump on the high fiber bandwagon, you should note that the diet has a downside as well. One of which is that your cat may produce flatulence. Also, your cat's stool will increase, and the bowel movements will increase. For this reason, while a high fiber diet is an option, most cat parents, I included, prefer a high protein and low carb diet.

Changing Your Cat’s Diet
It is imperative that you work real close with your cat’s vet. The type of insulin shot will get, the dosage as well as how often the insulin shots will be will be determined by your vet being directed by the blood glucose levels your cat experiences courtesy of the diet it is on. A change in the diet means a change in glucose levels, and as such, your vet will need to make adjustments to the insulin dosage given to your cat.

Weight
Many cats living with diabetes tend to be overweight. A little weight loss could go a long way to making the issue a little better. But I should also point out that some diabetic cats are underweight. But this often occurs when your cat has suffered from diabetes and has gone untreated. Whichever the case, (overweight or underweight), you will need to get your cat's condition treated.

It is also important that I point this out. Diabetic cats still have caloric needs like normal healthy cats do, as such, while you are reducing the calorie intake for your obese or overweight cat by 25%, it is important not to allow the weight loss to go beyond 3% of its body weight every week. At first glance, I thought this was a small decrease, but when you consider the overall small weight of your cat, the margins are suddenly not so small.

Starving your cat can lead to another condition referred to as hepatic lipidosis. This is a condition in which fat collects around the liver, and it stops functioning normally. Aim for a steady loss rather than a drastic weight loss.

Factors to consider when choosing the best diabetic cat food

Below are some choosing tips that will come in handy when choosing the best diabetic cat food for your beloved feline.

Consider the animal content
Before you purchase any cat food, the first thing you should do is check on its labeling for the animal protein it contains. Cats are carnivorous. Their main source of nutrients is animal protein. Sure they may feed on watermelons, potatoes or popcorns once in a while, but their main nutrient source (what their bodies were designed to digest best), is an animal protein including chicken, fish, turkey, and beef. If the food has lots of vegetables and carbs, then it is not great for your diabetic cat.

Avoid Grains in the food
Cats may have an easier time digesting grains in comparison to carbs. However, it is important to note that while grains may be great for normal healthy cats, they are not ideal or recommended for diabetic, overweight of allergic cats. Always stick to a low carb, high protein diet.

Author
Rebecca Welters created www.pawsomekitty.com. She's passionate about cats and has written many articles on interesting subjects related with cats, their care, breeds, behavior. She contacted us to share her content in our blog. Thank you Rebecca. Visit www.pawsomekitty.com to learn more about cats.

KITTY in NY provides in-home boarding and cat sitting solutions for your cat. New Yorkers have been enjoying our services for over 6 years. Please contact us and explain more about your cat/s and the service you need. We'll be glad to help you.