​Christmas is around the corner. If you have cats sharing your life, you might want to buy them something special. If not, you might have a friend or a relative who would love to receive a cat gift. At Kitty in NY we use cat supplies and tools every day. We have selected a few items that will help you and your cat enjoy your every day:

Cat scratcher: cats need to scratch to keep their claws in shape. PetFusion Ultimate Scratcher will satisfy almost any cat and provides a great stand to nap!

A good litter box is every cat (and cat owner) dream.Nature's Miracle High-Sided Litter Box fullfills most requirements: mold and mildew resistan, high sides to prevent litte scatter, non-stick surface for easy cleaning. You can pair this litter box with a DuraScoop Cat Litter scoop!

Cats need to travel to the vet, or might need transportation to get to a temporary home provided by Kitty in NY. The best way to transport your cat is using a Sherpa Original Deluxe Travel Pet Carrier.  Features mesh panels for ventilation, escape-proof locking zippers, top and side entries for easy and comfortable loading, waterproof interior base, and a removable machine washable cozy base liner. This carrier is Guaranteed On Board*. The G.O.B. program provides all the information you will need for your future travels with your pet.

If your cat is young you need one of this to release all the energy and satisfy his/her hunting instincts: this feather teaser will last a long time and will keep your cat busy and athletic.

Here's a guest blog post written by Clara at petlovesbest.com ​

Did you know almost 6.5 million pets each year enters the US pet shelters and crave the love from their humans? Many of those endearing furry animals are euthanized in the shelters and never get to see the world with their parents. We can say when you buy, another cat dies.

When you buy a cat, it potentially steals the home of an abandoned cat in a shelter. And the cats that people buy may also end up being in a shelter.
Adopting is in many ways a great act than to buy a pet from the pet store.
Black Friday was just here and I’m going to tell you why you should adopt a pet.

Black Friday is the day after Thanksgiving which is celebrated as a shopping day in the US. This day unofficially remarks the starting of Christmas shopping season. If you’re up for welcoming a pet home in near future, the Black Friday can be your best bet to adopt a furball. Let’s see why you should consider adopting a pet

Before we discuss the reasons let’s get a little insight of  Black Friday. This will help us understand why Black Friday is the best time to adopt pets.

Pet Adoption and Black Friday
Black Friday was the term used by Earl Apfelbaum in 1966 in Philadelphia. The clash of the Army-Navy game and the shopping day after Thanksgiving means a lot of traffic in Philadelphia. The traffic accidents, mobbing, and even violence during the whole day made the police of Philadelphia name the day as ‘Black Friday’.

However, things changed as the course of time and sellers started using the term ‘Black’ in a positive manner like denoting black as profits and red as a loss. Eventually, Black Friday became a huge profit for sellers and one of the best days for shopping for the customers.

Here is why you should adopt pets on Black Friday.

#1. Adopting is a Noble Cause, #AdoptDon’tShop

Everyone knows adopting a pet is better than shopping. So adopting a pet prevails over shop the pet. Put a noble act aside, adopting pets is actually better than shopping. And why is it so? People leave their pets to shelters when they get separated or they get abandoned by their parents.

These pets have been with humans and got separated. And on the reconnection with humans in your home would make you and your pet the happiest living beings on the earth.

MOREOVER, MANY OF THE PETS IN SHELTERS ARE ALREADY TRAINED BY THEIR PREVIOUS PARENTS AND YOU WON’T HAVE MUCH TO DO TO TRAIN THEM.

When you get to know the dark and cruel world of pup mills, you’ll realize how much excruciating pain to animals you’re promoting. So, when you adopt, it will make you feel like you’ve done a great thing and achieved greatness.

Hence, if you’re looking for a new fur family member this Thanksgiving, adopting is the best option.

#2. You’ll Be Saving a Lot of Money on AdoptingTwo factors will work for you:
1. Black Friday gives you great deals on adopting just like you’ll get for other products. 2. Some sellers bear the 100% pet adopting fees for you or pay a big share of it to promote a noble act and make up the money by not giving any discounts on other products if you purchase from them. So look out for what can get you the most benefit.

#3. Because You Can Save More on Dark Colored Pets

We know pets come in many different colors and shades and they all look beautiful. And we appreciate it. When it comes to adoption, dark-colored pets stay more at the shelter than white ones.  Many people still believe that a black cat can be a bad luck. The way of thinking still is affecting no. of pet adoptions in a shelter.
To counteract this, many shelters and adoption centers offer special discounts on the dark-colored/black pets. If you are the one who doesn’t discriminate with the pet’s color and want a dark-colored pet, the Black Friday can be your best shot.

#4. You’ll Have a New Family Member to Celebrate Christmas With

If you adopt a pet this Black Friday, your adorable pet will be more than happy to reunite with humans and be loved by its new parents. By the time Christmas comes, your pet will become an integral part of your family like it has been with you forever.
If you have lost a fur family member recently, this newbie will fill the emptiness with all the mirthful moments.
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THE ENDNOTE
Black Friday has been considered as a big shopping day with many great offers we’d love. This day also comes with great pet adoption deals and the reasons I have mentioned here are apt to consider pet adoption. Well, I believe pet adoption is much more than just shopping for something. It’s a pure bliss, a feeling of greatness to fight the animal cruelty, a feeling of warmth, and celebrating festivals with your furball. So, go ahead and find the best deals near you for pet adoption if you’re looking for one!

We enjoy the fall with pumpkins, spiced teas and lattes, colorful leaves and orange decorations. Unfortunately it is sad that some people prefer to hurt pets during this time of the year. Make sure you keep your pets inside, not only they'll be warmer but the risk of losing your beloved cat increases during this period. Some shelters have a "no black cats adoption policy" before Halloween. They could just be used as Halloween props and then abandoned. Or much worse. Ritual sacrifice still exists, there are stories in the newspapers every now and then describing horrible scenes. Some could be dismissed as urban legends but the possibility is out there.

For all those reasons, please keep your cats indoors during October. Your neighbors might be wonderful but the traffic of strangers around Halloween increases. This makes it unsafe for cats to be outside, specially gentle cats who do not fear humans.
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On Halloween night you might want to keep your cats in a quiet room to avoid the constant visits and ringing. Even the quietest and most social cat becomes upset with so much traffic, costumes and excitement.

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

Photo by Hannah Troupe on Unsplash

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. Our cat sitting visits are perfect for short term or very shy cats who wouldn't adjust to a temporary home. An in-home boarding service is recommended for mid/long term services. Contact us to book your next cat boarding service.

Kitty in NY recommends in-home cat boarding for long services instead of travelling with your pet. Cats do not like long trips and will do well in a temporary home until you get back. Avoiding the stress of the trip will be greatly appreciated by your favorite feline. We have clients who boarded their cats for 3/6 months , even for a year. Our caregivers will send you regular updates during the whole boarding period. Contact us and tell us what services you need.

For short weekends or one week trips cat sitting visits to your apartment will save your beloved cat a lot of stress and anxiety.

If you need to take your cat on a car, train or air trip you should ensure it is comfortably secure in the right carrier.

You may give your cat the Bach Flower Essence "Rescue Remedy" to help it with the stress of traveling. Give a few drops in his/her water every day. The flower essence will help your cat remain calm.

It can be dangerous (and ilegal) to have a cat loose in your car – it cause an accident by becoming entangled with the driver. If a window or door was opened the cat could escape and get lost.

You need to invest in a carrier which is strong and easy to clean. Cats can urinate/defecate (or vomit) during long trips. Spray the inside of the carrier and car with Feliway before you're ready to go. Feliway sprayt mimics the pheromones cats leave when they are comfortable and relaxed.

Place the carrier where it will be secure if you have to use the brake suddenly but where it has a good air flow (not under luggage in the back of the car). You can secure the carrier behind the front seats or use the seat belt to hold it securely on the seat. The cat could meow initially or even throughout the whole journey – speak calmly and reassuringly to it but do not let it out of its carrier. The meowing will probably drive you mad but the cat is unlikely to be suffering; just voicing its dislike of the situation! Eventually the constant motion and noise of the car will probably induce your cat to sleep.

Black cats has been blamed for most of the wrongs of the  world. Poor black kitties! Even today, black cats bring to mind images of witchcraft and magic tales. Literature and fiction pictured cats and witches in countless mistery tales. Edgar Allan Poe wrote about one and Hollywood has made many movies about them.

For a long time, black cats were regarded as mysterious creatures with supernatural powers and were associated with witches. The association between bad luck and black cats dates back to the middle of the fourteenth century. It’s not known exactly why cats became associated with the Devil in the Middle Ages, but the belief was so persistent that they were all exterminated during the Black Death pandemic around 1348 CE. The killing of the cats only worsened the plague, which was spread via rodents.

In the middle-ages in Europe black cat’s status started to go downhill as they began to be associated with witches. The hysteria of witches practicing black magic had hit Europe and alley cats were often cared for and fed by lonely old ladies later accused of witchery.

Their cat companions, some of which were black ones, were deemed guilty of witchery by association. This belief was taken up a notch when a folklore involving a father and son in Lincolnshire in the 1560′s became quite popular. The pair were said to have been traveling one night when a black cat crossed their path. Naturally, they did what any guys would do, they threw rocks at the furry feline until the injured creature scurried out into a woman’s house, who was suspected of being a witch in the town. The next day, the father and son came across the same woman and noticed she was bruised and believed that was more than just a coincidence. From that day on in Lincolnshire, it was thought that witches could turn into black cats at night.

Here are a few cat superstitions from different countries 

• America: It is bad luck to see a white cat at night
  
• Scottland: A strange black cat on your porch brings prosperity
  
• Italy: A cat sneezing is a good omen for everyone who hears it.
  
• America: Dreaming of a white cat means good luck.
  
• Netherlands: In the Netherlands, cats were not allowed in rooms where private family discussions were going on. The Dutch believed that cats would definitely spread gossips around the town. 
• Egypt: It was once believed that the life-giving rays of the sun were kept in a  cat's eyes at night. 
  
• Ireland: To kill a cat brings seventeen years of bad luck
  

Black cats are loved and appreciated nowadays. At Kitty in NY we have many black cat clients. We love black cats too! Who couldn't appreciate the beauty of these animals? Our caregivers located in Manhattan, Brooklyn or Queens would love to take care of your cat while you're away. Please contact us in advance to confirm availability. We'll be glad to help you.

A cat living in an apartment can easily reach 18-20 years of age. Feral cats have a life expectancy of around 5-6 years. This huge difference is due to accidents, diseases, parasites, poor feeding habits, and stress. The indoor pet is well nourished, vaccinated and protected from accidents/stress.

The care the cat receives during her life is an important point if we want our cat to have a happy long life. When sickness or injury are neglected, the aging process is accelerated.

An older cat requires a caring and loving environment. Stress should be minimized. Cats love routine, a good diet and a caring human will make an older cat happy. Older cats are more sedentary and less energetic. They are less tolerant of extremes of heat and cold. They seek out warm spots and sleep longer. When disturbed, they are cranky and irritable. They don't like to be bothered, they need their space and their time.

A visit to the vet every year should be scheduled.
The annual checkup should include physical examination, blood tests, stool exam, and urinalysis. Kidney disease is quite common in older cats.

Danger Signs in older cats: If you see any of the following signs, take your cat to the vet as soon as possible.

• Weight loss
• Coughing, problems breathing
• Your cat is always thirsty and urinates frequently
• Weakness - difficultly moving
• Constipation or diarrhea
• A lump anywhere on the body

Kitty in NY has caregivers specialized in older cats. These caregivers have had their own cat till she died of old age. They are used to giving medication and caring for an older cat. Your cats will be in good hands. Contact us to find the best option for your cat in Manhattan, Brooklyn or Queens. We'll be glad to help you.

Why Do Cats Purr? The Basics

Purring is common when your cat feels friendly or relaxed. However, it’s also something that can happen when your pet is stressed, hungry, in pain, or anxious. The fact is that all cats are different. You’ve probably noticed that different moggies have different personalities. In the same way, all behavior from your cat will depend on the context and that cat’s history. Getting to know your cat on a deeper level makes it easier to figure out whether your cat is purring for anxiety reasons, depression, or something else entirely. 

Purrs release feel-good chemicals for your cat – just like running and exercise creates endorphins for humans. Experts think that cats use these vibrations to soothe themselves. This could mean that your kitty is trying to calm their nerves when they’re snuggling, or that they’re just enjoying the experience. 

Studies found that whole-body vibrations at a certain frequency in a cat’s body can also increase the chances of your kitty healing and overcoming ailments. It sounds pretty weird, but even astronauts from NASA have used vibration therapy to support bone density and keep them comfortable in space. 

Higher frequencies of purring serve their own unique purpose too. One study in the Current Biology journal found that cats purred louder when they were trying to get owners to feed them. Interestingly, the vibrational frequency of a cat’s purr, when they want to be fed, is around 220-520 HZ.

That’s awfully close to a human baby’s cry of around 300 to 600 HZ.  
Here are some of the most common reasons why cats purr.
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1. Crucial Communication Between Cats and Kittens

Purring is crucial for the survival of newborn kittens. Remember, they don’t have any vision to help them out when they’re trying to find their mom for food. A mom’s purr guides her kittens to her with soft vibrations. Even though the kittens are deaf, they still feel the purring. 

The adorable vibrations that happen between kittens and their moms are kind of like homing devices. They keep the momma cat and her baby cats connected. Kittens start purring in return when they’re about 2 days old, showing their contentment for the food.
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In the wild, the purring communications between a cat and her kittens are pretty clever too. Since purring isn’t as noticeable as meows and cries, it doesn’t attract predators. 

Another bonus? Purring helps kitties to heal (we’ll come back to this in a minute). When a mother cat is giving birth and recovering after labor, she’ll use purring to release endorphins and reduce pain. Once again, in the wild, this means that the kitty doesn’t attract any predators when they’re in a dangerous environment. 

2. Cats Purr for Attention
You might already know that cats generally only meow when they want the attention of their humans. It’s not as common for cats to meow when they’re communicating with their fellow felines. However, cats do purr for attention – from other kitties, and from you. 

Cat parents are often familiar with the adorable little vibrations of their kitties when they cuddle and stroke them. These little fluff balls exude contentment to let you know that they like what you’re doing. Most kitties also recognize the obvious benefit of purring.
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The more your kitty purrs, the more likely you are to give them attention and love. This means that they get more of what they want from you whenever they purr. 

 What if My Cat Doesn’t Purr?

Cat purring is usually a pretty great thing for felines and their companions. So, what does it mean if your cat virtually never purrs? First of all, don’t panic. Each cat is different, and many purr at different volumes and frequencies. Some cats are incredibly quiet when they purr. The only way you would notice that these felines are purring is to touch their throat. 

Other cats seem as though they don’t purr at all. Scientists are trying to understand why this happens, but we’re still not sure. Feral cats are more likely to purr less than domestic cats. Some scientists think that feral kitties are taught by their parents to reduce purring in order to avoid predators. 

Scientists have also found that feral cats are usually less vocal in general than domesticated kitties. They don’t develop the habits of purring and meowing as much in their early lives, so they don’t continue it in adulthood. This could be because domestic cats have developed their vocal abilities over the years to communicate better with humans. 

The only real reason to panic about a cat not purring is if you’ve noticed they haven’t been doing it for quite a while, and they’re showing other signs that something isn’t right. If your cat isn’t eating or drinking properly, they’re vomiting, or they’re struggling with going to the bathroom, seek advice from a vet. 

A lack of a purr isn’t necessarily a sign that something’s wrong with your cat. Remember, cats usually purr to heal! However, any change in behavior in a kitty is usually worth exploring.

This article was written by our friend Dexter Jones at We Love Cats and Kittens

You can read more about why do cats purr at myindoorkitty.com.

Photo #1 by Marco Biondi on Unsplash
Photo #2 by Isi Parente on Unsplash
Photo #3 by C. Z. Shi on Unsplash
Photo #4 by Zoritsa Valova on Unsplash
Photo #5 by  Lisa Algra on Unsplash

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.

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.
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2. Time to help cats
You can also take the time off from work to help homeless cats in your area. June is Adopt A Shelter Cat Month and Social Petworking Month so use this day so share some adoptable kitties on your Facebook page or other social media. Follow a new rescue group or two. Send out an email to friends and family encouraging cat adoption. You can make a huge difference and help cats find homes.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cats get the reputation of being solitary and aloof creatures. This is far from the truth, cats can enjoy interacting with their owners. Cats have a way to discern whether their owner is sad or depressed. A cat's presence and their interactions can reduce bad moods or help us cheer up during rough times.

On top of that, cats are very easy to care for and maintain: 

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

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

http://www.aspca.org/nyc/adoptable-cats
http://www.animalhavenshelter.org/
http://www.humanesocietyny.org/adoptions/
http://www.bideawee.org/

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

There are so many things that could possibly scare cats: vacuum cleaners, loud noises, strange or new objects in a familiar home, an unfamiliar home or new pets. Here are the most common causes for a skittish cat, and ways to help make your cat more comfortable and sociable!

A new environment can be scary for a cat. We have a lot of experience with cats moving to a new home, it is important to let your cat get used to the new apartment. Let him wander, watch and listen, not forcing the adjustment. Most cats will be comfortable within 1/2 days (or hours, depending on the cat).

Some rescue cats have suffered neglect in the past. They learned to not trust humans. You need patience to show your cat he can rely on you, show him you're a provider, make sure cat food, clean litter, fresh water and playtime is provided daily. When she knows she can rely on you to give her what she needs, she will be more willing to play with her toys in front of you, or even to let you play with her. It can take a few weeks/months but you will make some progress over time.

Fast movements can scare some cats. Try to move slowly around the cat and she will feel more comfortable. Once she's used to you you can start moving around at a faster pace. If fast movements or loud noises scare your new cat it means he's not yet used to you or the new surroundings.

Keep in mind every cat has a different personality. Some cats are just not as social or affectionate. You need to be patient and persevere, providing a healthy and comfortable environment. They might enjoy just being in the same room with you, other cats ask for affection. Every cat has a different way to express how comfortable and happy they are with their human companions. Remember most cats love the following:

• Routine - cats enjoy their daily routine. They hate change and like knowing what will happen next.
  
• Treats - don't make them part of their daily diet! Offer a few (2 or 3 kibbles) per day
  
• Patience - your cat will do things on her own time and pace. Do not force your cat, wait and your cat will eventually come to you.
  

Our caregivers have the patience and experience your cat might need. Kitty in NY offers the best solution for your cat boarding needs. When you need to leave the city you will know your cat is enjoying a loving and healthy environment while you're away. We have caregivers available in Manhattan, Brooklyn or Queens. Contact us and explain what services you need. We will be glad to help you with your cat.

Kitty in NY has been interested in sharing the love of cats among different online platforms. Our Instagram was launched last year. Over  3700 followers enjoy regular pics of our kitty clients. Our posts reach more and more users every day.

We have expanded and social media is part of our everyday work tasks. We want our friends, clients and followers to enjoy cat pics. We are passionate about cats and want to know more about them every day.

If you’re not a Instagram fan you can follow us on Facebook, Tumblr, Twitter, Pinterest

See below a few of our latest Instagram pics. Follow us if you'd like to see more beautiful cats.

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.

Contact Kitty in NY and send us more details about your needs. We'll get back to you as soon as possible. Kitty in NY helps you find the best solution for your cat care needs.

Your Cat's Moods
Wondering if your cat is having a good day? Here are some clues:

Content: Sitting or lying down, eyes half-closed, tail mostly still, ears forward, and purring—a happy cat (could also be kneading a soft surface).

Playful: Ears forward, tail up, whiskers forward, and pupils somewhat dilated—playing is hunting behavior

Irritated or over-stimulated: Pupils dilated, ears turned back, and tail twitching or waving—your cat may growl or put his teeth on you as a warning to cease and desist. Intense play can quickly turn into overstimulation in some cats, resulting in biting and scratching.

Nervous or anxious: Ears sideways or back, pupils dilated, and tail low or tucked between legs—your cat may slink through the house close to the floor, looking for somewhere to hide. 

Frightened or startled: ears back and flat against her head, whiskers back, back arched, fur standing on end, and tail erect or low. She may growl, hiss, or  spit.

Defensive: Crouched, ears flattened, whiskers back, tail between his legs or wrapped around his body, and pupils dilated—he may meow loudly, growl, hiss, or  spit.

Angry, aggressive: Ears back and her tail may be up or down with the fur standing on end—Cats don't really want to fight; they prefer standoffs

You'll learn a lot when you can interpret your cat's wide vocabulary. 

"Meow" is an all-purpose sound. Your cat may be "meowing" as a greeting ("Hey, how are you today?"), a command ("I want down, More food now") or an announcement ("Here's your mouse").

Purring is a sign of contentment (usually). Cats purr whenever they're happy.

Growling, hissing, or spitting indicate a cat who is annoyed, frightened, angry, or aggressive. Leave the cat alone!

Chirps and trills are how a mother cat tells her kittens to follow her. Aimed at you, it probably means your cat wants you to follow him

A howl tells you your cat is in some kind of problem—stuck in a closet, looking for you, or in pain.

Chattering or twittering are the noises your cat makes when she's sitting in the window watching birds or squirrels.

Body language: your cat communicates with the whole body

Ears
Swiveling: attentive
Forward: interested
Backward, sideways, flat:  frightened

Tail
Erect: fur flat: alert, inquisitive, or happy - Fur standing on end: angry -  frightened
Held very low or tucked between legs: insecure or anxious
Thrashing back and forth: The faster the tail, the angrier the cat
Straight up, quivering: excited, happy

Body
Back arched, fur flat: welcoming
Back arched, fur standing on end: frightened
Lying on back, purring: relaxed
Lying on back, growling: upset

Rubbing
When your cat rubs his body against you he is marking his territory. 

Kneading
When the cat works her paws on a soft surface as if it she's kneading bread dough. It's a holdover from kitten hood, when a nursing kitten massaged her mother's teats while feeding. Your cat does this when she is very happy.

​KITTY in NY has the best options available for your cat boarding needs. Our caregivers have had many cats in the past and understand their needs. Your cat will be in the best hands when you're away from the city. Contact us to book your next cat boarding service. We'll be glad to help you.

One of the most common questions we receive from clients and caregivers is this. Why do cats all of a sudden run across the apartment, meowing, 30 miles per hour, again and again? This behaviour can struck new owners but it's very common, it can be seen on almost every cat (all breeds and ages).

These actions are known as "night crazies", These phases last a minute and your cat will not be in pain or suffering. Most cats just need to spend the excess energy. Cats spend almost 15 hours per day sleeping. House cats don't need to hunt for a living. They need to run an stretch from time to time. It's part of their life to have a crazy minute of their own!

You should only be concerned if there is a lot of meowing involved. it could be a flea bite in a part of the body your cat cannot scratch. If you suspect your cat has fleas you should de-flea your cat and your apartment immediately.

A more serious condition that would require veterinary care is rippling skin disorder. If the sking on your cat's back seems to be rippling while he's running or if your cat bites his back above the tail, you should bring your cat to the vet for a check and eventually for some treatment options.

Hopefully your cat is just streching and having a good time.

Remember to book your next cat boarding or sitting service in advance. Our caregivers will take good care of your cat while you're away.

When you're leaving your apartment for a short period of time (2-6 days) cat sitting could be a good solution. A professional cat sitter would visit your apartment to take care of your cat/s. Our standard visit is 30 minutes but you may request longer visits if needed. Longer visits might be needed when there are more than 2 cats or when administering medication is required.

Our cat sitters have a lot of experience with cats. They are trained to administer medication and will make sure your cats are doing well while you're away.

Tasks included in the standard visit:

• cleaning and refilling food and water bowls: your cat sitter will clean and refill each bowl daily
  
• scooping/replacing litter in the litter box
  
• cleaning of both areas (feeding and litter box)
  
• play time: leave your cat's favorite toys and tell the catsitter what your cat loves. They will be glad to spend time playing with your cat!
  
• petting : some cats don't trust strangers but if your cat comes and requests attention we'll be more than happy to pet them. We love cats!
  
• update after every visit: you will receive a photo update (via SMS or email, you decide) after each visit

Our database of cat sitters allows us to always be able to help you. You won't have to worry about your cat sitter not being available. We have selected over the years great people with one thing in common: they love cats!

Please contact us with the exact dates, your address and as much information about your cat. If this is your first service a meet and greet visit at no charge is included. You will be able to meet the prospective cat sitter before you confirm your service.

We'll be glad to help you with your cat/s!

It can never hurt to have a Fortune Cat perched by you. Lucky cats have been part of everyday life for centuries in Asia and now can be found all over the world.

Kitty in NY is the perfect solution for your long or short term boarding needs. In home cats need human company and interaction, they should not be left alone for long hours. A cat needs a lot more than food and water. They seek human company and rest by humans. Our caregivers do not have any pets of their own and they are all passionate about cats. Your kitty will be in good hands. We have options available in Manhattan, Brooklyn or Queens. Contact us to book your next cat boarding service with Kitty in NY.

You've seen the paw waving cats in Asian restaurants and Chinese stores. There is a Fortune Cat in every Chinese or Japanese restaurant, Asian supermarket or Chinatown business. You'll never miss one of these figurines by the cash register.

Fortune Cats are lucky charms that are believed to attract good luck and prosperity to its owners. This is the reason why they are so abundant in any kind of business.

The Japanese name is Maneki Neko which translates as Beckoning Cat. The raised paw means they're waving positive things to its owners. Other names re Lucky Cat, Welcome Cat or Money Cat.

These cats originated during the Edo period in Japan (17th to 19th century). The period was characterized by economic growth, strict social order, isolationist foreign policies and popular enjoyment of arts and culture. There are a few legend explaining the origin of the Maneki Neko:

A geisha had a cat. One day, the cat was running around and owner of the brothel thought the cat was possessed, so he sliced off its head with a sword. The flying cat head landed on a snake about to strike and saved the geisha. The geisha was so saddened by the loss of her pet that one of her customers made a statue of the cat to cheer her up.

A rich man took shelter from a rainstorm under a tree close to a temple. He noticed a cat that seemed to be beckoning to him, so he followed it inside the temple. A lightning struck the tree he had been standing under. Because the cat had saved his life, the man was so grateful, he became a benefactor of the temple and made donations. When he passed away, a statue of the cat was made in is honor.

There are different meanings attached to the features of each Manike Neko. If the left paw is raised it attracts new clients. If the right paw is raised, this invites good fortune and money. You can also find Fortune Cats with both paws raised. Depending on the color of the cat you can get different kinds of good luck:

• The most common one is Calico: it attracts good fortune in general
  
• Golden Fortune Cats attract wealth and prosperity
  
• Green cats are meant to attract good health
  
• White cats are good for happiness, purity and positive things
  
• Red cats work for sex and relationships
  
• Black cats protect against evil spirits

Maneki cats can hold different objects that attract good things and wealth: wallets, coins, fish or marbles. They are all symbols of prosperity, good luck and wealth in Asian cultures.

3. If You Don’t Consider How to Acclimate Your New Pet to Your Home, It Won’t Feel Comfortable

Of course, you’ll want to play with your pet and get acquainted as soon as you bring it home. But, your pet will need time to adjust to its new surroundings, and you need to help it through the transition. This is especially true if you have adopted a rescue animal who may have been abused or in a shelter for quite some time. 

One of the best ways to help your pet feel at home is to give them their own space. You should have a cat bed, toys, and scratch posts or boxes in a dedicated space. You also should keep its food and water in the same place.  If your cat needs a hiding place, make a cage available to it, and allow them to remain in their cage when guests visit, especially if a dog is a potential guest. 

4. Make Sure Owning  a Pet Won’t Be a Financial Hardship

The idea of a fast friendship with a new pet can easily overshadow the importance of assessing your ability to afford this pet. Do the math first. Can you afford food, toys, vaccinations, and random visits to the vet? If the answer is no, you should forgo getting an animal that you might have to give up. If the answer is yes, then you are in the perfect position to welcome a new cat into your home. 

Becoming a first-time pet owner will be more enjoyable for you and your new cat if you do your homework first, prepare your home, and take steps to acclimate it to your home. This sets the stage for the friendship of 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.
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KITTY in NY provides the perfect solutions for your short and long term needs. Our cat sitting service will help you get away on short business trips or long weekends. A caregiver will visit your cat/s in your apartment. Our in-home boarding service is recommended for mid/long term services, you bring your cat to the caregiver's apartment where he/she will be the only pet. Contact us with more information about the service you need.

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
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