Author: Kate Karam

Can’t. Stop. Looking. You will have an outsized and possibly over-the-top need to stare at this little creature, search for them the second you get home, and watch in awe as they sleep (and sleep and sleep). Nature (no fool that she is) baked in a few attributes in kittens that are similar to human babies—large head, round face, big eyes, rounded, soft, pudgy abdomen, and those sweet, non-threatening sounds—all of which have a profound effect on our brains, causing the release of the feel-good neurotransmitters, dopamine and oxytocin. Slightly overprotective? Who me? Totally normal.,There’s no escaping that when you adopt a new kitten, those few pounds of furry feline cuteness will immediately rule your world. And we’re not mad about it. In fact, we think life is simply sweeter with a kitten who is now in charge of us from dusk to dawn. Here are just a few of the ways bringing home a new kitten ensures that your life will never be the same.

This year, why not use reclaimed, recycled, and natural materials to decorate for the holidays? Dubbed “Homespun Holiday” by style spotters, it’s the perfect excuse to go for a long walk in the woods with your pet. Grab a basket or canvas bag and hit the trail (here are some dog-approved places to go), picking up the natural treasures you find along the way. How “right” would a bowl of perfectly-imperfect pinecones that you gathered on a stroll with your dog feel about now? Your attention is the best gift you can give your pet (and you can both burn some calories, too). Use your bounty to create this foraged wreath.,We can always count on our dogs and cats to inspire us to find joy in holiday traditions, both old and new. To help you make the most of this holiday season, we’re sharing four of our favorite festive and fun things to do with our pets.