Interactive play time is a very powerful tool to build a strong bond with your cat. It is great for trust-building, exercise, release of energy, avoid cat boredom and depression. A cat who receives a daily dose of play time is a happier cat. Don't overlook the importance of activity, it can avoid many behavior issues.

A key ingredient in interactive activity with your cat is YOU. You may have a variety of cat toys in your apartment but they are dead toys without you. The concept behind any cat toy is to allow your cat to act like the hunter she was born to be. When you move a fishing pole type toy as a prey, the target at the end of the string will slide, dart, creep around the room, waking your cat's hunting instinct.

Cats are low maintenance pets but neglecting playtime and attention to your cat can result in obesity and other behavior or health issues.

Kitty in NY provides loving caregivers for your cat while you're away. They will play with your cat and make sure she gets the activity she needs. Contact us to book your next cat sitting or boarding service.

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
​

​We'd also like to thank StreetEasy for recommending our cat care services:

StreetEasy
http://streeteasy.com/blog/nyc-pet-boarding/

If you need to leave the city for a few days or a few months our cat sitting visits and in-home boarding services will help you find the best solution for your cat. Contact us with more details about the service you need. We'll be glad to help you.

This article belongs to Tinpaw.com. Kitty in NY was kindly asked by the founder Diana Hutchinson to share its content in our blog: http://tinpaw.com/how-many-teeth-does-a-cat-have/

Teeth are considered as an important feature of your cat’s life. Not only it is to catch their prey, but it serves many functions like grooming and taking care of their litters. As it has many aspects, have you stopped and wondered how many teeth do cats have?
It seems like it’s only now that cat owners had started to give attention to dental care in cats especially when the internet exploded the news that it loves cat videos and memes. But one has to know that dental awareness and hygiene in cats can have a huge effect on the tooth and other organs of the cat’s body also. 
Here, we’ll show you through all features of a cat’s tooth – from how many teeth do cats have to tips on taking care of your feline’s teeth.

Teeth care for the cats
Cats may not enjoy you cleaning their mouth, but they need it. Dental problems are one of the things vets can find in cats whenever an owner brings them to an animal hospital.

• Provide it with an intensive care to keep its translucent teeth healthy. 
• Use treats and foods that protect against developing the tartar and plaque.
• Brush the teeth of your pet regularly otherwise; it may give out a bad odor whenever it opens its mouth. Use a soft brush.
• Let your pet eat only low carb cat food.
• Give it soft toys.
• Regular visits to the vet.

You treat your cat’s teeth like how you treat yours – a brush, treatment, and a change in eating habits. If you remember how many teeth do cats have, we say, once it’s permanent, it’s permanent. Once your kitty loses a tooth, it won’t grow back.
You don’t want your cat to suffer in silence, do you? Show your pet some love as they have done for you! And if we missed on anything, just let us know in the comments.

BIO:
My name is Diana Hutchinson. I am the founder of Tinpaw.com.
I am a pet lover, especially dogs and cats. "A home without a pet is just a house".

All New Yorkers are used to having a cat around the corner of their building since most Bodegas keep a Bodega Cat! These citizens of the Big Apple have been around for decades since they keep rodent population at their lowest. 

Bodega cats have been a favorite of New York City symbols. Some instagram accounts specialize in portraits of these happy residents appreciated by most. One of our favorites is bodegacatsofinstagram that has been posting amazing pics since 2012!

Not everybody loves cats and city regulations prohibit having pets inside businesses but most owners prefer to pay the fine and keep rodents at bay. We always look forward to finding new bodega kitties and enjoy their different personalities.

If you need to leave the city for a few days or for weeks, we can hep you find the best solution for your cat. Our Boarding service is perfect for long term services, you bring your cat to the caregiver's apartment where he/she will be the only pet. If you´re only leaving for a few days we recommend our cat sitting visits, a caregiver will come to your apartment to feed your cat-s and play with them. You will receive periodic updates so you know your cat-s are doing great!. Contact us and send more details about the service you need, we´ll be glad to help you.

Kitty in NY has been interested in sharing the love of cats among different online platforms. We are passionate about cats and we try to learn more about them: breeds, care, character, tips and advice. Our posts also introduce new caregivers or share the best pictures we receive from cat sitters all over the city.

You can follow us on:
​Facebook, Tumblr, Twitter, Pinterest or Instagram.
​
We want to thank all our fans and followers. Your interest and love of cats is the main reason why we enjoy feeding our social media content. It is fun to select the best pictures and topics of the posts. We continue to learn about our beloved feline pets.

In-home boarding is the best cat care solution for mid-long term services. We connect you with a loving temporary home where you can leave your cat until you come back. You can now take a long break, pursue a career opportunity overseas for a few months or visit family and friends for long periods of time. Your cat will be in good hands and you will receive periodic updates during the boarding. It’s 24-hour care in the hands of cat lover for an affordable rate. Kitty in NY selects the best caregivers in the city. Our clients send reviews and feedback after every service.
 
We visit and meet the caregivers to ensure they are qualified to watch your cat. Once we double check availability with the caregiver for your dates, you may meet and visit the perspective caregiver. The in-home cat boarding service provides a no cost, no obligation meet and greet for the client and potential caregiver to see if it will be a good fit.
 
In-home cat boarding services offer cats individual attention, your cat/s would be the only pets in the apartment. They can also keep up with your pet’s regular routine — including eating schedules, grooming necessities, and daily playtime requirements — so your cat has less anxiety while you’re away.

Kitty in NY isn’t just about connecting owners and caregivers but also ensuring quality through caregiver reference checks, reviews, personal interviews, online training and follow up during the boarding:

1. Is the caregiver’s home safe? Before you head out to tour Europe, head over to the caregiver's apartment that you’re considering to confirm your cat will be placed in a cat friendly, secure home. The meet and greet is free, it is the best way to ensure the caregiver we selected is your best match. We can propose several caregivers until you find your match.
2. Are the caregivers responsible and reliable? We meet and interview all our caregivers. They have been cat owners that for different reasons do not own a cat at the moment. They have the experience of taking care of a cat and enjoy cat company.
3. Our caregivers have no pets of their own, your cat will be the only pet in the apartment. This helps reduce the stress of your cat and the time to get adjusted to the new environment.
4. What’s the daily routine of your cat? If your cat needs his pill at a certain time of day, or likes to play with you before dinner time, be sure that the in-home boarding care will be accommodating following your cat's routine. Consider feeding, medication, physical needs and hygienic needs. All those details will be included in the contract.
5. Provide full disclosure. In addition to interviewing the in-home cat caregiver, providing an out-of-town contact number, it’s a cat parent’s job to be open and transparent about a cat’s needs. Share as much info about your cat’s personality, needs and medical history as possible to ensure your pet has a fabulous time on his vacation!

Kitty in NY is the best in-home cat boarding solution in Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens. We will be glad to help you with your cat/s!

If you're leaving for the weekend or if your cat/s are shy, skittish, aggressive or could have problems adjusting to new environments, we recommend cat sitting visits. A professional cat lover will come visit your cat in your apartment. You will receive an update after each visit. Cat sitting is a great solution for short term.

Contact us with the service you need and more details about your cat/s. We'll be glad to help you!

Monday May 29th 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

Preserving pets’ health is a major priority for any pet parent. Dog owners are very particular about dog health. This is because dogs are prone to many health issues.
There is, however, a misconception surrounding cats. Most people think cats are much more resilient than dogs. The saying that cats have nine lives is a testament to this misunderstanding. This is simply not true.
​
Dogs and cats are equally likely to get health problems. For example, 10%-20% of all dogs and cats get allergies. The best determinant of dog health or cat health is the animal's age and its genetic predisposition to certain health concerns.

​​Common Skin Problems in Cats

One common problem that many cats suffer from is skin issues. Research indicates that 6% to 15% of all cats suffer from at least one type of skin problem. Here are some frequently occurring skin conditions you need to look out for as a cat parent:

1. Alopecia
Alopecia refers to excessive hair loss. Most cats shed their fur so a little bit of hair loss is not a cause of concern. If, however, you notice that you can see the skin where the fur once was and the hair loss is continuous then this is not normal.

2. Itchy Skin
Itchy skin is a result of irritation and inflammation. Itchiness causes a lot of discomfort and must be dealt with immediately. You can detect itchiness by observing your cat's behavior. If they itch constantly and appear uncomfortable, then going to the vet is a good option. There are many different causes of itchiness, ranging from food allergies to fleas and even certain internal diseases. Seeking quick treatment is the best course of action.

3. Skin Issues Caused by Bugs
Cats are prone to infestation by bugs such as ringworms, fleas, and mites. Many of these parasites live on a cat's skin and cause itchiness, hair loss, and redness.

Conclusion for Dealing with Skin Problems in Cats
As a pet owner, you must always be on the lookout for any sign of skin problems in your pets. Once you recognize them, it is best to consult your vet. Many people try to change the cat';s food thinking the cause is food-related allergies. Self-diagnosing can be harmful so going to the expert is key to seeking treatment.

​Courtesy of Myrah Abrar MBM Blog Article Author

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

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.
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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
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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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