Go to any pet supply store and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the wide array of cat litter options. All those options make it hard to know which litter is best. Here’s how to pick the right cat litter for your cat. 

What are the common cat litter options?

The most common litter is clay clumping litter, though other kinds of litter are increasingly gaining popularity. Options beyond clay include wood shavings, silica crystal-like, wheat, corn, or recycled paper.

“The choice of material mostly comes down to your cat’s personal preference; some cats simply prefer certain types of litter over another,” says Dr. Jamie Richardson, Medical Chief of Staff for Small Door Veterinary.

Are there any safety concerns?

Even though cats are not consuming their cat litter, they come in close contact with it. They end up inhaling dust and other particles that come off the litter, which can lead to health conditions. Unfortunately, some litter additives like fragrances, designed to make cat litter more attractive to people, can be harmful to cats.

 “Whichever material you choose, we recommend choosing a litter that is unscented and dust-free, as cats can have very sensitive respiratory tracts that are easily irritated,” says Dr. Richardson.

What should I consider?

Although cats’ personal preferences are often the primary consideration for what litter you pick, if your cat has underlying health conditions, you may need to take those into account.

Specifically for cats that are recovering from surgery, Dr. Richardson discourages the use of clumping litter because “it can get stuck in the wound, risking infection.” 

For cats who have allergies or respiratory issues, the litter you use must be unscented and dust-free to prevent triggering symptoms. For instance, Dr. Richardson notes that if your cat’s allergies include pollen, grain, dust or mold, you should pay attention to ensure the litter you choose doesn’t trigger an allergic reaction. 

“Pine litter can work well for cats with grain or household allergies, or grass-seed litter is 99% dust-free, for those with dust allergies,” Dr. Richardson says.

Here are symptoms to look for if you think your cat litter is making your cat sick

Cats can dislike certain sorts of litter, and some litter can even make them ill. Cats who dislike the litter in their box will generally make this clear by urinating or defecating in other areas of the house or outside the box. Dr. Richardson did also point out that while this behavior might be your cat making their displeasure known, these are also common symptoms of “anxiety issues or health problems such as UTIs, so it’s also important to get them checked out by a veterinarian.” 

Beyond disliking certain kinds of litter, cat litter can actually make your cat sick. Dr. Richardson advises that signs to watch for include 

• “Runny” nose (discharge from nose or nasal congestion)
• Red, irritated, itchy or watery eyes
• Itchy skin and/or excessive scratching or grooming
• Facial swelling
• Wheezing, sneezing or coughing

All of these could be signs that your cat is allergic to the litter that you have been using. If your cat experiences these symptoms, it’s a good idea to connect with your vet and explore making a change. 

Why you may need to try a few types of cat litter

Some cats are very picky about what kind of texture they prefer to walk on and use, and you might have your own preferences such as cost, ease of access to purchase or how biodegradable the litter is. I would love to use a different and more environmentally friendly litter than I use, but I have a 21-year-old cat who has made very clear that there is one brand of litter and one brand alone of litter that she will use, and so, we purchase it. To find the right litter that you and your cat can agree on, you might have to do a little bit of trial and error.

 “You may need to try a few types to find your cat’s favorite, so we recommend buying small quantities to begin with. If they don’t seem to like their existing litter, you can try putting down two or three litter boxes with different litter types to let them choose,” says Dr. Richardson. 

If you are adding a new cat to your home

If you are bringing a new cat home, Dr. Richardson advises that you continue to use the kind of litter that they are familiar with to start with. This will help your new cat or kitten to have an easier time adjusting to your home and family. If once your new cat is used to your home and family, you want to utilize a different litter long-term Dr. Richardson encourages you to make the change gradually by “introducing small quantities of the new litter with the old one.” It’s important to avoid quickly changing your cat’s litter as it would result in stress for your cats and could also lead to behavioral issues, including your cat refusing to use the litter box. 

Multi-Cat Homes Considerations

Litter box choices are crucial when you are living in a multi-cat home. Besides needing to have multiple litter boxes so that each cat has access to its own, different cats may have different preferences. Dr. Richardson notes, “you may need to buy different types of litter for each cat. (It’s best practice to have at least one litter box for each cat in the home anyway, so they feel comfortable going in their own space).” 

Related: How to Introduce Your Cat to a New Cat

Litter Box Best Practices

The amount of litter in each box is also essential and might contribute to your cat’s willingness to use the litter. “It’s important not to over- or underfill the litter box. Cats like to have enough litter to cover up their feces, but too much can spill out of the box. A good rule of thumb is around two inches of litter, ensuring there is enough space at the top of the tray that it won’t overflow when your cat steps across it,” suggests Dr. Richardson. 

Litter boxes should be kept in quiet areas of the home so that your cat will feel comfortable using them. Regardless of what litter you and your cat select for you to purchase, it’s important to maintain a clean box. Dr. Richardson notes that a daily cleaning of a litter box should be considered a minimum. Ideally, fecal matter is removed after each bowel movement and urine-soaked litter is removed daily, with the whole box being emptied and scrubbed with hot water weekly. 

Read Next

• 10 Weird Cat Litter Box Habits
• 6 Alternative Types of Natural Cat Litter

Featured Image Credit: Zoran Photographer, Shutterstock

The post What Type Of Litter Is Best For Cats? Choices & Considerations by Sassafras Lowrey appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Have you ever purchased cat grass? It’s an inexpensive treat that cats tend to enjoy, but why? Most of us don’t think of cats as being animals who want to eat vegetables,

“Although cats are obligate carnivores (which means they need to get the majority of their nutrition from meat and fish-based sources), they do occasionally enjoy nibbling on some green stuff,” says Dr. Jamie Richardson, Medical Chief of Staff at Small Door Veterinary.

Here’s what you need to know.

Is cat grass good for cats? 

In addition to being a tasty treat for cats, cat grass can be healthy and beneficial. Dr.

“Eating certain types of grass or plants can aid cats with their digestion,” says Richardson, adding that regularly nibbling on cat grass can help relieve constipation, and assist in the removal of non-digestible materials (like furballs). It can also provide them with some nutrients, such as folic acid.

Meaning eating it can improve your cat’s overall health. It can also be a lot of fun for cats. Enrichment is extremely important to your cat’s physical and emotional health and cat grass gives cats something to explore and nibble at.

Where to buy?

From pet stores to farmer’s markets cat grass available widely available but what is it?

“Cat grass is not a specific type of plant, but typically a grass mixture,”  says Dr. Richardson.

It generally involves wheat, rye, barley, and oats. In addition to being able to purchase fully grown cat grass, you can also often find seeds which you can then plant in a container of your choice and grow at home.

Not all grasses are safe for cats

As not all grasses are safe for cats it’s always a good idea to review the ASPCA’s list of toxic plants before bringing any plant into your home regardless of if you intend for your cat to eat them. This will help you ensure that any plants in your house are safe if your cat chooses to nibble on them.

Why does my cat throw up after eating cat grass?

A common concern many cat guardians bring up with cat grass is that they find their cat vomits after eating it.  But as alarming as that can be Dr. Richardson confirms that it’s a common and normal occurrence.

“This is usually because they ingested the grass to help them vomit up a furball or another non-digestible item,” says Dr. Richardson.

It’s important to pay attention to how much your cat vomits after eating it.

“ If they only vomit once and there are no other concerning signs (such as lethargy, unwillingness to eat, etc.), there is not usually any reason to be concerned,” says Dr. Richardson.

But if your cat vomits repeatedly, or vomits every time they eat it you should get them checked out by a veterinarian to rule out any medical issues.

The post Is Cat Grass Good for Cats? by Sassafras Lowrey appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Christmas trees are part of the winter holiday season for many of us. But although Christmas trees are fun for us, they can be dangerous for our cats. As we get ready to start decorating for Christmas, Dr. Jamie Richardson, Medical Chief of Staff at Small Door Veterinary helps us understand some of the ways Christmas trees can be dangerous for cats.

Christmas tree water 

The water at the base of your Christmas tree isn’t the same as the water in your cat’s water bowl.

“Water around a Christmas tree can become stagnant and bacteria can grow very quickly, which can cause serious stomach upsets for your cat,” says Dr. Richardson, adding that “if possible, avoid having a tree that needs watering, or water it in small amounts each day.”

If you do want a real tree though, to make sure that it stays properly hydrated while protecting your cat, put a mesh type of grate over the tree stand to prevent your cat from reaching the water. Finally, while many stores sell additives that you can put in the water to preserve the life of your tree, these additives can be especially dangerous for our cats.

“Do not use any chemical Christmas tree ‘extender’ products in the water, as these can also be toxic to cats,” cautions Dr. Richardson.

Climbing risks

It can be cute to see pictures or video of cats and kittens climbing Christmas trees, but it’s very dangerous.

“Cats are often tempted to climb Christmas trees, as they love high perches. However, an untethered tree could easily fall over, hurting them. The same applies if the cat is tempted to use the tree as a scratching post,” explains Dr. Richardson.

If your tree is located in an area of your home that the cats can access, it’s important to securely anchor your Christmas tree to a wall so that if your cat does get into the tree the tree won’t fall.

In general, it’s a good idea to supervise your cat anytime they are near the tree to prevent climbing. If your cat appears interested in the tree, try distracting with toys and/or treats to redirect their attention away.

Pine trees

Bringing a live tree into the house is likely to get the attention of your cat. Because cats often explore the world with their mouths, some cats may try to nibble on trees. However, Christmas trees are not safe for cats to eat. Although your cat is unlikely to ingest a lot of tree, many cats are tempted to nibble on Christmas tree branches and pine needles “While chewing on the bark may not necessarily cause much harm, pine needles could cause issues if ingested” advises Dr. Richardson.

Decorations

Twinkling lights and other festive decorations are key components of decorating Christmas trees but they can pose some serious health and safety risks to our cats. Christmas decorations that are shiny and crinkly are especially attractive to cats who can easily mistake the holiday decor as a cat toy,  Dr. Richardson warns

Christmas tree decorations you want to be especially careful about include: 

•  Tinsel, if swallowed, can get stuck in the intestines and bunch up, where it will cause a painful, life-threatening blockage and infection.
•  A broken piece of bauble may obstruct and/or puncture the GI tract, which can also be fatal if not swiftly identified and treated.
•  Tree lights can lead to dangerous electric shocks and/or burns if your cat chews on the wiring.

It’s best to completely avoid using tinsel on your tree because the risk of blockages are so high. When selecting other ornaments, pick ones made of plastic or other shatter-proof materials.

Distract your cat from the Christmas tree! 

While decorating your tree, think about how you can naturally discourage your cat from investigating the tree. Make sure that your cat has access to enriching toys and furniture such as cat trees.  Dr. Richardson encourages that cat guardians may want to try spraying cat perches/cat trees and toys with a cat pheromone spray, as it may help to encourage your cat to use them and ignore the tree.

“No matter how hard you try, some cats just won’t be dissuaded from climbing the Christmas tree, so you may need to reconsider the typical decoration plans,”  cautions Dr. Richardson. If you know you have a cat that just won’t leave the tree alone, an option to consider is to set your Christmas tree up in an area of your house where your cat can’t access or to shift to having a different kind of Christmas tree-like tabletop ceramic trees or other decor that don’t pose risks to your cat.

Read Next: Make These Christmas Kitty Face Masks

The post How To Get Cats To Leave The Christmas Tree Alone: Top Tips by Sassafras Lowrey appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

As we grapple with life in a global pandemic, most of us are using more hand sanitizer this year than we ever have before. And while hand sanitizer has become an important tool for keeping people safe when we’re unable to access soap and water for washing our hands, it is a chemical. Here’s what cat guardians should know about hand sanitizer and cats.

What exactly is in hand sanitizer? 

Different hand sanitizers will have different chemical properties so it’s important to look at the ingredients for any hand sanitizer you are purchasing and using. Generally, though, Dr. Wismer explains, “Hand sanitizer does NOT contain ethylene glycol, the toxic component of antifreeze,” explains Tina Wismer, DVM, Senior Director, ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center.

This is a good thing! Instead, “most hand sanitizers are ethanol based, which is the same type of alcohol that we drink.” Dr. Wismer did note that some hand sanitizers do contain small amounts of polyethylene glycol or propylene glycol which is an ingredient in what is marketed as pet “safe” antifreeze, which isn’t a bad thing.

Is hand sanitizer safe for cats?

Dr. Jamie Richardson, Medical Chief of Staff at Small Door Veterinary explains that “it’s certainly safe to use hand sanitizer on yourself,” however, it’s important to note that hand sanitizer is formulated for use by people and it is not safe for cats. While hand sanitizer isn’t explicitly toxic to cats, you don’t want your cat to get too close to it. Under no circumstances should you put hand sanitizer onto your cat.

Dr. Richardson advises that it’s important to keep hand sanitizer away from your cat’s paws and fur, noting “many cats do not like having topical creams/ointments etc. applied and will attempt to lick them off and could consequently ingest the sanitizer” In addition, if you put hand sanitizer onto your cat’s paws “the high alcohol content could dry out the paw pads, causing cracks, which is not only very painful but could also lead to infection if dirt or bacteria gets into the cracks” Dr. Richardson advises.

Related: Should You Clean Your Cat’s Paws?

The biggest concern around hand sanitizer is if cats were to ingest it. The good thing both Dr. Richardson and Dr. Wismer note is that cats are unlikely to want to drink hand sanitizer. “Most pets will dislike the taste of sanitizer, so if they lick your hand out of curiosity, they are unlikely to do it again! A single lick is also very unlikely to cause your pet harm, due to the small quantity of sanitizer consumed. You may just notice a small amount of drooling from the bad taste” Dr. Richardson advises. That said, if hand sanitizer got onto your cat’s fur and your cat attempted to clean himself, there would be a risk of ingesting a lot of hand sanitizer or that the hand sanitizer could be absorbed through the cat’s skin, which could put your cat at risk of alcohol poisoning.

How to use hand sanitizer if you have a cat

If you are using hand sanitizer it’s best to do so away from your cat. Dr. Wismer advises that when using hand sanitizer, guardians should “refrain from petting your cat until your hands are completely dry.” Although you don’t want to expose your cat to wet hand sanitizer, Dr. Wismer notes that it’s perfectly safe to use hand sanitizer because “once the hand sanitizer has evaporated it is safe to touch your pets without concern.”

What to watch for when using hand sanitizer around your cat?

The biggest concern for cats around-consuming hand sanitizer is the high alcohol content and risk of alcohol poisoning if a large quantity of hand sanitizer is ingested or absorbed through the skin. Dr. Richardson advises that if not treated quickly, alcohol poisoning can be very dangerous or even fatal for cats. Dr. Richardson advises that the most common symptoms to watch for if you believe your cat may have gotten more than a lick of hand sanitizer include:

• Nausea, vomiting or retching
• Drooling
• Lethargy, weakness, disorientation or incoordination
• Collapse
• Slow or difficulty breathing

Because alcohol poisoning can progress quickly if you believe your cat has consumed hand sanitizer it’s best to get your cat to the vet right away to be assessed. To be safe, if you have been purchasing extra hand sanitizer, it’s best to store the hand sanitizer in a cabinet or room of your home that your cat doesn’t have access to prevent your cat from getting into it.

Featured photograph: PeopleImages/Getty Images

Read Next: Helping Our Cats Through the Pandemic

The post Hand Sanitizer and Cats: Safety & How to Use it Around Your Pets by Sassafras Lowrey appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Feline Senile Dementia also sometimes known as Cognitive Dysfunction System (CDS) is an age-related disease that impacts the brain. Like dementia in humans, cats who experience dementia will generally display a decrease in memory, awareness and recognition of the world around them including their home, as well as guardians and any other animals in the family.

Here are the feline dementia symptoms to watch for

Symptoms of dementia can begin showing up in cats that most us might not even think of as particularly old. Dr. Tory Waxman, a small-animal veterinarian and co-founder of human-grade dog food brand Sundays explained that in cats as young as 7 and 8 symptoms of dementia can be observed.  She notes that signs of dementia are generally behavioral shifts. Common symptoms include

• Random vocalizations
• Seeming to be lost in familiar environments
• Change in litter box habits
• Becoming more or less friendly — or other changes in demeanor
• Over or under-grooming
• Appetite changes

Dr. Waxman advises “if any of the aforementioned or other behavioral changes are noted, cat parents should notify their veterinarian.” Your vet will be able to help you to determine if there is a different underlying health issue or if your cat has dementia.

How feline dementia is diagnosed

As there is no one test that can determine if your cat has dementia, feline dementia is mainly diagnosed based “on abnormal behavior reported by a pet parent after the exclusion of other causes,” says Dr. Waxman.

In order to determine if your cat has dementia, your vet will need to do a full and thorough examination, including a physical exam, blood pressure, bloodwork and urinalysis to determine if there are any other underlying medical conditions.

If you suspect your cat has dementia, Dr. Waxman advises taking video recordings that you can show or email to your vet. “Many cats are quite nervous at the veterinary office so are unlikely to display any abnormal signs” notes Dr. Waxman. Having a video showing the symptoms you see at home can help your vet to develop a more comprehensive understanding of your cat’s health. Depending on the symptoms your cat is presenting, your vet may also refer you to a consultation with a veterinary neurologist or behaviorist.

Related: Is Telemedicine For Cats Here To Stay?

What is the treatment for feline dementia?

Treatment for feline dementia can be tricky.

“Unfortunately, very little research has been done regarding feline dementia so most treatment options are extrapolated from human and canine medicine,” says Dr. Waxman.

There are a number of supplements marketed as providing cognitive support, but always consult with your vet before adding any supplements to your cat’s diet.

“Antioxidants (such as Vitamin E) are thought to slow the development of dementia due to oxidative stress being implicated in the development of dementia,” says Dr. Waxman, adding that with your vet’s approval, adding fish oil into your cat’s diet can be helpful, but make sure that you use fish oil that is labeled as cat safe to make sure there are not harmful additives included.

CBD has become increasingly popular for treating a variety of feline conditions including dementia. However, Dr. Waxman notes “unfortunately there is minimal scientific evidence” to support claims that it would support a cat with dementia. She advises that if you are considering using CBD with your cat to talk with your vet, of course, pay attention to any state and local laws, and reminds to only give “cat-specific products made by companies that are actively doing research on their products (such as Ellevet).”

If your cat seems to be anxious after being diagnosed with dementia, Dr. Waxman encourages use of the calming pheromone Feliway, or Zylkene which is a natural supplement from milk protein, both of which have been shown to decrease stress and promote calmness, but again you want to consult with your cat’s veterinarian before use.

Prognosis

Prognosis of cats with dementia differs greatly cat to cat.

“Some cats may show minor behavioral changes that don’t impact their daily lives, whereas other cats may have dramatic changes that progress quickly” Dr. Waxman says.

How to support your cat experiencing symptoms of dementia

Sharing your home with a cat who is experiencing dementia can be heartbreaking. None of us like to see our cats confused or in any kind of emotional distress. To support your cat, the key is keeping Kitty as comfortable as possible.

It’s important for a cat with dementia to not be let outside as the cat “may have difficulty finding their way home, and there are many dangers outside that could be even that much more dangerous to a cat with dementia. (including traffic, other cats, dogs, wild animals, getting caught in fences, etc.),” says Dr. Waxman.  If your cat is unsteady on their feet, stairs and ramps to favorite furniture can support cats with dementia feeling more comfortable, and can prevent falling injuries.

If your cat has dementia, one of the most important things you can do is to keep the home environment as consistent as possible. Dr. Waxman encourages to, whenever possible, avoid rearranging furniture. Keeping routines as consistent as possible will also support your cat with feeling safe and knowing where they are in the home as they continue to age.

Prevention

Just like with people one of the most important things that you can do to prevent feline dementia is to keep your cat mentally stimulated.

“Most cats actually love learning tricks, and it’s a great way to keep them mentally stimulated! You can teach your cat to sit or come using treats as a lure, and then pairing a word eventually once they start to offer the behavior. It might seem like just a fun game to your cat, but it is challenging them mentally,” says Dr. Waxman.

Read Next: 6 Things to Remember About a Senior Cat’s Needs

Featured Image Credit: medveda, Shutterstock

The post Can Cat’s Have Alzheimer’s? Feline Health Facts by Sassafras Lowrey appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Most of us are having more screen time than usual this summer from scrolling social media to movies to video games. Screen time is a regular part of life for most people, but what about our cats? Most of us have seen our cats watch or even swat at the screen when we are watching a show. Is it possible that they could enjoy their own screen time? If you go online to your favorite app store and search “games for cats,” dozens of options will come up of games being marketed to cat guardians to download for our cats to play. I was pretty skeptical about what cats would really think, but when my youngest cat came home, I had recently gotten a tablet and decided to give some of the games a try. Much to my surprise, my kitten was really into the games.

Do cats like video games?

Most cat video games involve objects: mice, bugs, shapes, etc., moving on the screen for cats to swipe at with their paws to try and catch. TJ Fuller (artist) and Nate Murray (programmer) collaborated to create ipadgameforcats.com/. In developing their games, which include Catzilla, Paint For Cats, and more, they explained their experience.

“The response to the game varies among cats. Some cats don’t care at all, but most of them love it! Kittens are especially responsive, but we’ve even had customers tell us that our game has reawakened hunting instincts in senior cats.”

My youngest cat who started playing video games as a kitten has always shown more interest in the app games than my older cats, but occasionally my 20-year-old will swipe at the screen. Some cats may get frustrated with the app games because while they virtually “catch” things on the screen they don’t actually get anything. If you find your cat agitated while playing, I suggest taking the tablet away for a little while and instead of engaging your cat with physical toys.

How to inspire your cat to play a video game

The IpadGameForCats designers explained that their development process involved researching with cats, looking at how they play, and thinking about what is attractive to them.

“Cats are natural hunters, so we wanted to know what gets them excited. It turns out that lifelike movement is the key. We developed methods to get the most realistic movement possible.”

I have found that when introducing my cats to the video games, or to a new one, it helps to play collaboratively with my cat. Our cats are already used to our tablets and phones being out on the couch, but they aren’t used to them being set up for them. By sitting with your cat and playing, too, swiping at the moving objects on the screen, you will likely inspire your cat to give playing a try.

There are a variety of games available for download ranging from free, to a dollar or two per game. (Be warned: Just like games for people, some kitty games have in-app purchase, which can add up). While most of these games will work on a smartphone as well as a tablet, I found with my own cats that the larger tablet screen is more attractive to cats than a phone, because it gives them a bit more room to play and holds their attention longer.

Fuller and Murray noted that a lot of cat parents ask them if cats will scratch and damage the screen of their tablet if allowed to play with it. They explained, “cat’s claws are made of the same material as our fingernails, which is softer than the glass on the tablet” but did advise to clean your cat’s paws before letting him play with your tablet.

As we are all spending more time at home it can be fun to find new ways to engage with your cats, and app-based games can definitely do that. If your cat is playing one of the painting games, you can even print out your kitty’s artwork or email it to friends and family. As with anything, moderation is key, so be sure to play a variety of games with your cat on and off the tablet. Also, be warned the more video games you play with your cats the more they might be convinced the tablet really belongs to them, so if you’re working from home you may have more help!

Top photograh: JGalione/Getty Images

Read Next: Spotify Has a Playlist for Your Cat 

The post Does Your Cat Want Screen Time? The Interest Facts by Sassafras Lowrey appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

There is a common misconception that cats are capable of completely grooming themselves and keeping their nails in good condition. While many cats do self-groom, they need some help to make sure their nails stay in the best condition possible. With a little bit of careful introduction, grooming can be a positive and stress-free experience for you and your cat!

How to know if your cat’s nails are healthy

When you are petting or cuddling your cat monitor their cat’s nails to ensure they are clean and healthy. Cat nails can either be clear/white or black/brown and in healthy cats “the nail itself should be relatively smooth without fraying and without any crusting/debris at the nail bed,” explains Dr. Richardson Medical Chief of Staff at Small Door Veterinary.

The most important thing to check with your cat’s nails is their length. The proper nail length for a cat’s nails  is slightly elevated from the floor when a cat is standing. When nails become longer than that it will cause “deviation of the toes as the nails hit the floor, which also gives them less traction on wooden or tile floors” advises Dr. Richardson. This is uncomfortable for cats and in addition,  “overgrown nails can become stuck in blankets and carpets, leading to the nail becoming caught and becoming injured as the cat tries to free itself” notes Dr. Richardson.

Overgrown nails are not only uncomfortable for our cats they can also become a larger health issue. If a cat’s nails become overgrown, they will eventually keep growing and curl around to puncture the footpad and which will not only then need to be removed but can also then lead to infections.

Should you trim your cat’s nails?

Regular nail care in the form of nail trimming is particularly important for cats who live indoors. How often your cat’s nails need to be trimmed will depend on your individual cat and how quickly their nails grow, and how much your cat wears nails down via scratching posts. In general, though, every two weeks is a good frequency to trim your cat’s nails. Dr. Richardson though does offer the caution that outdoor cats should not have their nails trimmed regularly unless they are becoming dangerously overgrown. Because “they need their nails sharp to be able to climb trees and therefore avoid potential dangers.”

The 3 Steps for trimming your cat’s nails

Comfort and familiarity with nail trimming are ideally something that all cats should be familiarized with from a young age so that the process becomes routine and not stressful. With any cat or kitten the key to stress-free nail trimming is to start slowly.

Step 1:

To get started, have treats that your cat is excited about. Start just by rewarding your cat with treats for allowing you to touch their paws without the nail clippers. We want our cats to understand that us touching their feet makes good things (treats) happen.

Step 2:

Get a pair of kitty nail clippers and allow your cat to explore them and offer treats, again helping your cat to create a positive association. Going slowly, short sessions multiple times a day of touching your cat’s feet and nails is going to be much less stressful and ultimately more successful than long nail trimming session.

Step 3:

When your cat is comfortable eating treats with you touching their feet gently use the clippers to cut the very tip of your cat’s nails and give more praise and treats to your cat. Dr. Richardson advises “When you’re ready to start trimming, on white nails look for the pink line running down the middle of your cat’s nails. This is known as the quick and is where the nerves and blood vessels are. If cut, the quick will cause bleeding and pain. Make sure you only cut the white part (the tip or hook part) and not the quick.”

Keep your grooming sessions short.  “Don’t feel like you have to trim all the nails at once. If you can only do 2 or 3 at a time before your pet loses patience, you can always go back another day. The trick is to keep the experience positive, both for your pet and you!” encourages Dr. Richardson.

Accidents happen

No matter how careful you try to be, it’s likely that at some point a nail trimming accident will happen and your cat’s quick will get cut by the clippers.  It’s good to have clotting powder on hand anytime you are trimming nails.

“There are pet-nail-specific clotting powders that you can apply in the event that you trim a nail too short and see bleeding. You can also use flour or cornstarch in a pinch. If you do cut too short, don’t panic. Nails can bleed a lot, but your cat is not going to bleed to death!” advises Dr. Richardson.  In the event that you do quick your cat and are having a hard time stopping the bleeding, or if you are concerned contact your local veterinarian for support.

Read Next: Should You Clean Your Cat’s Paws?

Feature Image Credit: ashshkna, Shutterstock

The post How to Keep Your Cat’s Nails Healthy in 3 Steps by Sassafras Lowrey appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

In this time of social distancing, many of us are revisiting our enjoyment of simple things like gardening. Even if you don’t have a large yard it’s possible to grow window gardens, but unfortunately, a number of plants commonly available are very dangerous to our cats. Only select plants that will be safe if your cat takes a little nibble. Here’s how to create a cat-friendly backyard garden or window box garden.

Why do cats like plants?

It is no secret that many cats are attracted to plants which can cause health concerns if they are eaten. Dr. Tina Wismer, DVM, MS, DABVT, DABT Senior Director of the Animal Poison Control Center at the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center says to “Make sure to keep all plants out of paws’ reach.

• Related: Why Do Cats Like Catnip?

Cats are good climbers, so it’s best to move plants to a safe place they cannot access. “You know your cats best and what shelves or window sills they are able to access and where is safe to have plants.” Dr. Wismer says, adding that cat owners should think not just about plants they are growing, but also the flowers, as many flowers can also be dangerous to cats.

These plants are dangerous for cats

Unfortunately, a lot of plants are toxic to cats, and a cat’s natural curiosity can get them into trouble, as they are likely to ingest plants and flowers brought into the home. Here are few common plants, Dr. Wismer advises gardeners to be especially careful about around your cat:

Lilies

Cats are most at risk when it comes to ingesting true lily plants, and the symptoms are serious. Ingesting both types of true lily plants (Lilium and Hemerocallis) can result in severe kidney issues and even death for cats, so make sure to be mindful when planning your garden. Additionally, other plants that can pose serious threats to your pet’s health are cycad palms. They can cause liver failure if ingested.

Tulips, hyacinths and other bulb plants

These are considered toxic to cats and can cause vomiting, diarrhea and drooling if ingested. All parts of these plants contain toxic components. However, the bulbs are especially concentrated — making it the most dangerous part.

Daffodil

This is another toxic spring plant to keep an eye out for. The Daffodil bulb is especially toxic, and can cause depression, hypotension and even seizures in cats in addition to the gastrointestinal problems.”

• Related: Plants and Foods that are Poisonous to Cats

Grow these safe plants in your cat-friendly garden

Although a number of plants are dangerous for cats there are some safe options. Dr. Wismer says good options include:

• African violets
• Petunias
• Gerber daisy
• Bromeliads
• Orchids
• Snapdragons
• Polka dot plant
• Maranta
• Peperomia

Related: Let’s Talk Non-Toxic Plants for Cats — What Plants Can Your Cat Eat?

Your cat won’t be able to resist these plants

If you’re looking to add some enrichment and variety into your cat’s day you could use “cat grass,” or catnip to create a cat-focused window garden. They’re both sold either as seeds or as started plants in gardening centers and pet stores. But while cat grass is safe to give to cats, Dr. Wismer points out that “eating almost any plant or flower can cause gastrointestinal upset in pets.”

If you create a grass-filled kitty window garden, monitor your cat to make sure she isn’t making herself sick by eating the grass.

Do your research before starting your pet-friendly garden

If you are going to be planting a garden it’s important to do your research before purchasing any plants and seeds.

“It is in a pet owner’s best interest to research the plant they are looking to purchase whether it is for indoor or outdoor use. It is best to familiarize yourself with the list of toxic plants and keep these types of plants out of your home or garden for the health and safety of your pet,” Dr. Wismer advises.

She suggests that if you are going to have any toxic plants in your home garden that you need to create a physical barrier to keep your cat away, as other deterrents aren’t necessarily going to be effective and “with some plants, a single exposure could be life-threatening.”

Want more information on creating a cat-friendly garden? To support cat guardians with their gardening plans, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center has posted comprehensive lists here.

Top photograph: Alexa-photo/Getty Images

The post How to Create a Cat-Friendly Garden: Tips & Tricks by Sassafras Lowrey appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Looking for fun ways to spend time with your cats and get crafty at the same time?  DIY puzzles and games are fun to build and provide your cat with fantastic mental exercise. Just remember it’s important that cats be supervised while playing with these games to make sure they are playing safely and appropriately.

Related: How to Entertain Your Cats During COVID-19 Pandemic

Keep your cat busy with these DIY cat puzzles 

Treat Fishing

Cat’s love to use their paws to “fish” for things.  Batting at skittering food comes naturally to cats, and this game channels those natural skills. When finished, this toy will be a box filled with up-facing tubes for your cat to puzzle how to fish treats out of!

You’ll need

1. Multiple toilet paper and/or paper towel tubes
2. A small box
3. Scissors
4. Cat treats

Instructions:

1. Take a small box that has come from deliveries, a Kleenex box or a shoebox that is the right size.
2. Collect several toilet paper and paper towel tubes.
3.  Cut down the paper towel tube into different heights of tubes.
4. Put the tubes into the box until the box is full and the tubes are steady.
5. Sprinkle a few cat treats into some of the tube holes and give the puzzle to your cat to enjoy.

Peekaboo Box 

This box is a version of the whack a mole arcade game except instead of the “moles” popping out of the holes, your cat will be reaching in to try to grab at the toys!

You’ll need:

1. Large box
2. Scissors
3. Packing tape or duct tape
4. Cat toys, ping pong balls, or tennis balls

Instructions: 

1. Take a large box and cut different sized holes in each side of the box.
2. Drop balls or other cat toys into the box.
3. Tape the box closed.
4. Enjoy!

For an added challenge, make the holes in the box different sizes, with some being big enough for your cat to pull toys all the way out of and with other holes too small for toys to be pulled out of.

Treat Dispenser

Looking for a creative way to feed your cat? This easy-to-make food-dispensing toy is a great way to make kitty mealtime interactive and fun. If you don’t feed kibble, you can also use this puzzle for giving your cat crunchy treats.

You’ll need

1. Plastic water or soda bottle
2. Scissors
3. Cat treats or dry kibble

Instructions: 

1. Punch a few holes in the bottle.
2. Make sure the edges of the holes aren’t sharp.
3. Confirm the holes you punch in the bottle are large enough to allow a treat to come through.
4. Put a  handful of treats or your cat’s dry kibble inside.
5. Screw the lid back onto the bottle.
6. Shake the bottle and show it to your cat and let her play. As your cat bats the bottle around the room, treats will be dispensed.

As the game progresses and there are fewer treats or bits of kibble in the treat puzzle, the more work your cat will have to put into getting the treats out making the game progressively harder.

Games to keep your cat busy 

Bag Hunt

Anytime I get home from grocery shopping my cats (like most cats) are curious about the paper bags. Paper bags on their own make wonderful toys for cats to pounce onto and hide in. For added fun take a paper bag and place balls and cat toys inside. Make sure to remove any handles before your cat plays in the bag.

Corner Games

Wand toys connected by a string to a toy on the other end are popular with most cats. Follow these simple instructions to make your own and then take your gameplay to the next level. Go into one room and drape the string of the wand toy around the corner of the doorway so you aren’t visible. Start to wave the wand to make the toy on the other side of the corner dance!

Bubbles! 

It’s not just humans who find bubbles irresistible. When faced with floating bubbles most cats are inspired to pounce! You can purchase catnip flavored bubbles designed for cats online. Alternatively, you can get non-toxic bubbles online or at most retailers.

When you have your cat’s attention, blow bubbles to give your cat the opportunity to chase and catch them. Be sure to blow bubbles away from your cat, not directly onto your cat or into your cat’s face. Bubbles can be a little messy, so this game is best to play in the kitchen or in another area of your house with an easy-to-clean floor.

Top photograph: iprogressman/ Getty Images

Read Next: Should You Clean Your Cat’s Paws?

The post Keep Your Kitty Busy With These DIY Cat Games by Sassafras Lowrey appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Fat cats might be adorable, but, unfortunately, there are some pretty serious health concerns associated with cats being overweight. Kitty obesity has been linked to a variety of medical conditions that can impact your cat’s quality of life.

Dr. Renee Rucinsky, a board-certified feline practitioner and a DABVP, Feline Specialty, cautions that “Cats who are overweight are known to have shorter life spans, and the associated health problems can be deadly to the cat.” Not only that, treating weight-related health complications can be very expensive and time consuming. Dr. Rucinsky advises it’s far better to do whatever you can to prevent your cat from becoming overweight. So what is an overweight cat at risk for? Let’s take a look at the most common of these conditions.

Top 5 Health Risks for Overweight Cats

1. Diabetes

Diabetes is a serious condition that is challenging and labor intensive to treat. Dr. Heather Loenser, senior veterinary officer with the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) explains, “Overweight cats, even just a few pounds, are at an increased risk of diabetes. Diabetes management requires insulin injections often every 12 hours for the rest of the cat’s life. Let me say that again … injections — twice a day — until the cat dies. That is a HUGE commitment and if it can be prevented, it will improve the quality of life of and the relationship between a cat caregiver and the cat.”

2. High blood pressure

High blood pressure or hypertension, as it is sometimes called, can cause major health impacts for your cat like strokes and blindness due to the cat’s retina detaching. Cats who are overweight or obese are at an increased risk of having high blood pressure.

3. Bone/joint damage

Being overweight can take a toll on your cat’s bones and joints, and unfortunately joint pain isn’t easy to combat. Dr. Loenser says that arthritis pain “can be difficult to treat because cats don’t metabolize common painkillers in a way that allows them to take them daily, indefinitely, like many people and dogs.

4. Hepatic lipidosis

Hepatic lipidosis is more commonly known as fatty liver disease. It is specifically connected to abrupt decrease in caloric intake because of illness, a cat being kept away from food or being offered food that the cat won’t eat. Dr. Rucinsky cautions that when it comes to overweight cats “putting a ‘diet’ food out and taking the attitude that the cat will eat when she gets hungry just is way too risky.” Even if you and your vet are trying to change your cat to a weight management diet, hepatic lipidosis can occur in just a couple of days, and treatment requires inserting a feeding tube. Symptoms include: not eating, jaundiced skin and weight loss.

5. Skin problems

Overweight cats aren’t just unhealthy inside, their skin and coats can begin to have problems as well. Itchy skin, and flaky and greasy coats can all be side effects of a cat being overweight. Dr. Loenser explains that this is because overweight cats are simply unable to reach certain parts of their bodies to properly groom. The base of the tail and the back are two areas overweight cats often have particular difficulty with grooming.

How to tell if your cat is overweight

Dr. Loenser encourages all cat parents to talk to their veterinarians about what an ideal weight for your cat is (most cats should be between 9 and 11 pounds). This is something every cat owner should be thinking about even if your cat is not (yet) overweight. Once you know a healthy weight for your cat, monitor his weight regularly at home between vet appointments.

“You should be able to feel ribs without too much effort, and looking at the cat from above, the profile should be relatively straight. When we see cats that from above look more round than rectangular, that’s a problem,” Dr. Rucinsky says.

What to feed an overweight cat

When selecting food for your cat, regardless of his weight, consult with a veterinarian familiar with feline nutrition. “Cats require no carbohydrates in their diets — most cats would do best and be less likely to be overweight if they never ate dry food!” Dr. Rucinsky explains.

When seeing overweight patients Dr. Rucinsky cautions that she is looking at the kinds of calories being consumed, if the cat is eating too many carbs and that she creates an individual diet plan for each cat.

How to feed an overweight cat

But it isn’t always just about the food, she says. “Sometimes the type of food is OK, but we choose to feed in a different way, with food puzzles or other things that stimulate the cat’s need to hunt. And don’t forget the other side of weight loss — exercise! Even trying to get an overweight cat to move around five extra minutes every day can be a great start on a weight loss plan. Set a time, and get that feather toy out!”

Age matters when it comes to your cat’s weight

Monitoring your cat’s weight is important throughout the lifetime of your cat. From kitten to senior cats, being overweight will impact the health of your cats in negative ways. Dr. Renee Rucinsky, a board-certified feline practitioner, cautions that the younger a cat becomes overweight the more concerning it is for his health. This is because the younger the cat is, the earlier he will start having obesity-related health conditions.

About the author

Sassafras Lowrey is an award-winning author whose novels have been honored by the American Library Association and the Lambda Literary Foundation. Sassafras is a Certified Trick Dog Instructor who shares her home and writing life with three dogs, two bossy senior cats and a formerly feral kitten. Learn more at sassafraslowrey.com.

Editor’s note: This article originally appeared in Catster magazine. Have you seen the new Catster print magazine in stores? Or in the waiting area of your vet’s office? Click here to subscribe to Catster and get the bimonthly magazine delivered to your home.

Read more about cat health and care on Catster.com:

• Is Your Cat Losing Hair? 6 Reasons for Hair Loss in Cats
• What is Prednisone for Cats? And What About Prednisolone for Cats?
• Is Your Cat’s Runny Nose Normal?

Thumbnail: Photography ©Casey Elise Photography.

Feature Image Credit: Dennis van de Water, Shutterstock

The post 5 Overweight Cat Health Risks by Sassafras Lowrey appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.