Posts tagged “Water Fountain”

If you’ve ever shared your home with a calico cat, chances are you had a female cat. And you might have heard that all calicos are female, or that they’re rare, or someone probably referred to the “calico cat breed.” So, what’s the truth about these multicolored creatures of mystery? With these fun facts about calico cats, you’ll be unstoppable at the next trivia night.

Keeping an eye on your cat’s urinary health is important. Not only are many cats predisposed to various urinary issues—referred to as feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD)—but once signs occur, immediate attention is needed.   Some common signs of urinary issues include frequent urination, straining to urinate, urinating outside of the cat litter box, and blood in the urine. All of the above mean your kitty needs to see the vet pronto. If your cat is straining and not producing urine, this may be a life-threatening emergency—seek veterinary care immediately.  One thing that can help prevent, manage, and even treat urinary issues is swapping in cat food for urinary health. Sometimes, a cat’s diet can actually contribute to urinary problems, such as urine crystals and bladder stones.   “Diet affects the pH, concentration, and mineral content of urine,” explains Colleen Guilfoyle, DVM, the national shelter medicine veterinarian at Best Friends Animal Society in Kanab, Utah. “Foods high in certain minerals—like magnesium or phosphorus—or too low in moisture can promote crystal or stone formation.”  Ahead, we’re sharing veterinarian-approved cat foods that can help promote good urinary health.   Speak with your veterinarian before changing your cat’s diet. 

A cat’s normal body temperature is somewhere between 100 and 102 degrees Fahrenheit, Johnson says. Because cardboard is an insulator, boxes are great places for cats to both explore and feel cozy. Throw a couple pieces of kibble into one and you’ve got a great foraging activity to keep your cat busy. Sure, you can get your cat any ol’ box. You can also surprise them with a box that has all of their favorite things inside, like with a Cat Goody Box. This extra special box comes with cat treats and toys specially curated by pet parents like you; so your cat will be spoiled with all the gifts—including the enticing cardboard box they surely know and love.,Ever notice that some cats will play with almost anything? From boxes to paper bags to toilet paper rolls, there are plenty of household items cats like to play with. The benefits of playtime for cats are manifold, says Marilyn Krieger, a certified cat behavior consultant and author of “Naughty No More! Change Unwanted Behaviors Through Positive Reinforcement.” In fact, hunting is in a cat’s DNA. Most types of indoor play, she adds, give cats an outlet to act instinctually, releasing dopamine, the brain’s pleasure chemical. To that end, play is also a huge stress reliever, says certified cat behavior consultant Ingrid Johnson. “There isn’t a better way to get the ants out of their pants,” she says. “If we don’t give them an outlet or the tools they need to release that stress, they can suffer behavior, emotional or even physical consequences.” If your feline is starting the feel the seven-year itch with his old feather on a string, maybe it’s time to rethink your playtime strategy. Try these “toys” made with items already lying around the house and let your cat have some good, clean fun.