Cat Health | Page 2 | Cat Pause: Your Cat's Favorite Blog!

Tips for Making Older Cats More Comfortable

April 4, 2017 By Joi

I’ve had and loved cats, literally, all of my life. I can’t even begin to imagine a home or life without at least one cat. I’ve always had several indoor cats as well as several (oftentimes SEVERAL!) outdoor cats.

Some of my cats have lived exceptionally long lives and I can say this – nothing in the world is any sweeter, more enjoyable, or more lovable than an older cat. Older cats do, of course, require extra consideration.

Recently, we had a kitten (Guen) move into the house – a house where a 13 year-old-diva-cat (Alexa) reigns supreme. The entire process has amazed me for several reasons. For one thing, do kittens ever run out of energy?!?!

Naturally we’ve enjoyed outdoor kittens over the years, but this is the first kitten we’ve had in the house in years. The energy level and amount of wonder and curiosity are pretty amazing and I’m loving every moment.

Ironically, caring for (and preparing your home for) a kitten is very much like caring for (and preparing your home for) an older cat.

You have to make sure there’s nothing that can fall on them if they (kitten) ram into a table or shelf or (older cat with dimming eyesight) accidentally bump into the same table or shelf.
You have to make sure they have comfortable beds in several places throughout the house. Kittens and older cats are liable to have a nap attack at any given moment and a nice, comfortable bed all their own is highly important. Younger cats often climb onto furniture to nap, whereas older cats (whether they’re lazy, have a little arthritis setting in, have diminished eyesight, or simply lack the wherewithal or inclination to jump if they don’t have to) usually favor low-to-the-ground beds. I have a bed for Alexa in my home office – right beside my desk, so she’s always near me during the day. I have another bed in the den, so she can retire near the tv at night to stay close to my husband and I (though, most of the time her favorite place to sit is beside “dad” on the couch). She also, of course, has a huge bed in our bedroom where she sleeps (and snores!) through the night. Multiple beds are simply one of the kindest and most loving things you can do for an older cat. But make sure they’re easy to get in and out of – the less they have to jump, the better. The Deluxe Easy Entry Cat Bed (pictured at the top) makes a perfect cat bed for an older cat. More on it in a minute…
Two words: Fresh water. This tip (as well as others, obviously) is applicable for cats of all ages, but it’s one that I list any chance I get because so many people overlook it. We wouldn’t want to drink day-old, dirty water, so we shouldn’t make our cats. I provide fresh, cool water throughout the day for our cats (inside and out).
If you have reason to suspect that your older gal or guy would need glasses, if available (don’t you wish they were?!?) – keep this in mind at all times. When a cat or dog begins to have trouble with their vision, extra care must be taken to keep them safe, comfortable, and confident. Be CERTAIN you don’t move furniture around or place anything (even a new rug) along their preferred paths. Cats with failing vision get around amazingly – but they do so because they’ve made a mental map of their home. If you change anything, it’ll make for one very confused and frustrated little one.
This tip is for older cats and/or cats with vision problems: No loud or sudden noises. Bad for the nerves! Always try to keep the house as calm as possible. This, of course, doesn’t count the noises he/she is already accustomed to. If my husband and I didn’t make plenty of noise while watching our favorite baseball team (St. Louis Cardinals!), Alexa would think something was wrong. She’s VERY accustomed to us questioning the umps, cheering for our team’s home runs, booing for the other team’s home runs, etc. Again, if all that racket stopped, she’d think something was rotten in Denmark! Also, if you have kids or grand-kids and the cat is used to their noise… it shouldn’t be a problem. Just be sure everyone knows to approach an older cat slowly, calmly, and to… by all means… let them know you’re headed their way.
Never “roughhouse” with an older cat – it’ll only frighten them and you could very well hurt them, without meaning too, of course.

Basically, this is the time to pamper your little girl or boy more than ever!

One final tip from someone who has had quite a few cats who lived WAY longer than you’d expect: When you look at your cat (whether they’re 10, 15, 20, or 24), do NOT think of “losing” them. Think only of “having” and “loving” them. This is something I realized when one of my cats (Prissy) hit 15 years old. Every time I looked at her, I found my heart feeling heavy – thinking about how badly it would hurt when I lost her. That sort of pain is bad enough to feel just once… when you actually have to say goodbye. Don’t invite those feelings into your life a minute before. Think of how blessed you are to have this little bundle of fur, how much you love her/him, and how you are going to do everything in your power to make them as comfortable as possible.

I caught myself (when Prissy turned 15) and turned my thinking around. She went on to have 5 more birthdays!

Why The Deluxe Easy Entry Cat Bed Makes a Perfect Bed for Older Cats:

This beautiful bed has “easy access” – the older cat doesn’t have to jump in or out of bed, which is something older cats greatly appreciate. The material is incredibly soft and comfortable – perfect for an older cat. I also love that its “walls” provide extra support and comfort. The fact that it’s so darn good-looking (and machine washable) are icing on the cake. Click through Deluxe Easy Entry Cat Bed for more information. This deluxe beauty is just the thing your pampered baby would love to curl up in.

Thermal Warming Pad for Outside (or Inside!) Cats Couldn’t Be Safer…

November 16, 2016 By Joi

Thermal Warming Mat

If you’ve read my cat blog for long you know that we have an ever-changing number of outside cats (who we love to distraction) and a diva inside cat (also loved to distraction). Alexa, the Diva, doesn’t see any reason to welcome any of her siblings indoors with her (and traumatizing an aging cat isn’t something I’m looking to do), so our “outdoor babies” remain our “outdoor babies.”

A “colony” of feral cats has joined our family and they are as much a part of our family as the rest of our whiskered cuties. This would actually be the perfect type of blanket or cat bed to provide to feral cats – one they’d appreciate a lot! It could be placed inside a huge crate or box out of the wind and rain/snow.

Fortunately, contrary to what many humans believe, cats love the outdoors! So much to see, do, and explore – they never get bored. We live out in the “boondocks,” so to speak, so they’re perfectly safe from dogs and traffic.

They’re actually as spoiled as any indoor cat.

We buy new blankets for them when their’s get worn.
They have two “cat houses” one of my sons-in-law built for them.
We call our carport “Kitty City” and this is their domain. There are chairs with throws, blankets, and even a few “tents” they LOVE getting inside. Naturally there’s an ever-rotating colony of Amazon boxes for them to explore as well.
They have a huge old shed they can get into when it’s raining – IF, that is, they consent to leave “Kitty City” and their wooden houses.

The only time I get concerned for them is when it’s really cold outside. One of their smaller houses is “heated” as in it has a great heating pad that’s plugged in and activated from inside. We’ve used it for three winters in a row and the cats love it. This particular house sits up off the ground – on top of a much larger house.

I told you they were spoiled.

The larger house is really big, so we’ve been trying to decide how to provide warmth to it. It’s actually so big that if all the cats simply got in there and huddled, they’d keep each other pretty warm! I was looking on Amazon earlier for “thermal warming pads” – the safest heating pads imaginable, since they are “heated” by the cat’s own body heat.

I found the Thermal Warming Mat pictured here (available in Brown Suede and Giraffe Print).

I love the size of this mat – I think three would be ideal for the larger house. I also love how pretty they are because I’d also like to get one for inside for Alexa. Inside cats would love these mats year-round because, very often, our idea of a reasonable “summer thermostat” setting is like a blistery winter day to a cat.

Speaking of summer, there’s even a cool gel insert for the mat (sold separately) that you can buy when the weather warms up.

See Thermal Warming Mat for more information. At just a little over $15, this is a really great deal.

How to Care for a Cat Who Has Diminished Vision or is Totally Blind

October 5, 2016 By Joi

Alexa: Spoiled and Loving It

Sometimes in life, beautiful blessings come with sorry side-effects. For example, if you’re blessed enough to live a really long life, you will know aches and pains as well as diminished hearing and vision! If you’re blessed to live a really, really long life, your memories may begin to play hide and seek.

Often BAD rides into town on GOOD’s back.

The same is true with our beloved cats. As they grow older, they very often develop vision problems. Cats over 10 will often have a “foggy” appearance to their eyes and their vision will change.. and not for the better. The good news is that cats adapt beautifully and can often find their way around their home in spite of Father Time’s cruelty.

Of course, some cats have diminished vision and even blindness as the result of accidents or illnesses aside from age. Caring for a precious cat who just so happens to not have perfect vision is both easy (most of it is common sense) and can be a joy. How? It will only lead you to a closer relationship with your furry baby – and that’s always a joyful thing.

In our family, our house cats live a very long time. Since they’re treated and loved like family – which they are – that’s a very good thing! However, we’ve seen, firsthand and firstpaw, that an older cat’s vision can change rapidly.

First Order of Business: Take a Deep Breath and Don’t Freak Out

If you love your cat like I do mine, it’s a love that’s difficult to explain. They are very much like our children, aren’t they? Funny, furry, ridiculously lovable children! When you first see that your cat’s eyes are changing or when you begin to notice that they stand in the middle of a room and “call out” for you rather than walk right to you, it’s easy to… well… fall apart. That’s exactly what I did when my much beloved Prissy lost her eyesight.

I bawled and bawled and bawled. Which, of course, did nobody any good. What I didn’t realize at the time was that she’d go on to live a happy (even more pampered) life after her vision failed.

Now, our much beloved cat Alexa is experiencing diminished vision (again, age-related). As was the case with Prissy, I first noticed it in the eyes – the pupils began to be dilated for the better part of the day and there was (in certain lights) a foggy haze on the eyes.

Prissy, who was known for jumping anywhere and everywhere also began to stop jumping. She’d stand in front of a bed, couch, or chair, and wait to be lifted. Spoiled!

Because Alexa is still able to see (she has more trouble with judging how close/far things are and can’t see in the dark as well as she used to), she gets around find. She still jumps up on her favorite spots and has no problem (at all!) finding her food and water and hasn’t missed a litter box visit once.

At nighttime, for as long as I can remember, we have a routine in our home. My husband and I settle in on the couch in the den and Alexa joins us – she either runs me out of my spot on the couch or she jumps into a big basket that’s all hers. About a month ago, instead of simply coming onto the scene, she began standing in a hallway near the den and “calling out” to us. Then she listens to see where our voices are coming from and slowly joins us.

By that time of night, the house is pretty dark, so that’s really the only time I notice any issue whatsoever.

If you’re experiencing age-related vision loss with your cat (if it’s something different, see your vet), I promise you, it’s going to be fine. You will become even closer to your cat as she/he will now need to be cared for much as a kitten would. This will give you even more opportunities to make her/him feel extra loved and, yes, even pampered.

Below are Tips for Caring for a Cat with Partial or Complete Vision Loss

If you feel that the vision loss (either partial or complete) could be health-related (as opposed to simply a by product of a very old little girl or boy), make an appointment with the vet. Hypertension in cats is treatable with medicine and I’ve read that often doing so can restore vision loss, if it’s related to the hypertension.
Keep your visually-impaired cat indoors. At all times. A cat who lacks good vision is very vulnerable and there are far too many things that could go wrong outdoors.
Again, I can’t say this enough – stay calm. Cats are exceptionally perceptive and they can pick up on our emotions. They hear it in our voice and they sense it. Don’t bring any negative emotions into the equation. IF your cat is annoyed with the vision change, doing so will only make it worse.
Keep in mind that cats do NOT think like we do. They’d be quick to point out that they’d never stoop to that level! Your cat is NOT thinking, “I used to chase that red dot and… sigh… I’ll never do that again…” More likely than not, they’re wondering why their humans suddenly stopped paying the light bill! Cats adapt quickly, too. The way they’re seeing or not seeing now is their reality. They do NOT think of a time when they could see… they do NOT fret about being able to see tomorrow. They’re beautifully “in the moment” and approach life like, “It is what it is. They didn’t pay the light bill and now we’re all in the dark. Well.. let’s make the best of it.”
If your cat still has most or even just some of her/his vision, but struggles in dark places, buy a couple of night lights. One placed near their food dish and one near the litter box would, each, be greatly appreciated. You can even find motion-detected night lights which are pretty darn cool.
Keep noises in your home as quiet as possible. That doesn’t mean you can’t turn on the tv (our cats have always enjoyed the tv actually) and it doesn’t mean you can run the washer or dishwasher – these are all noises your cat is familiar with and they will not startle him/her. However, sudden loud noises (balloons bursting, alarms going off…) can be extra frightening when you can’t see well.
If you know there’ll be extra noise (company, electric mixer, etc..), carry your cat to another part of the house. Sometimes, when we have company, I carry Alexa into the back of the house and put her to bed – something she never minds (can’t blame her). Try to keep things as calm and peaceful as possible and if you have kids either visiting or living with you – make sure they understand completely that the cat is NOT to be scared or chased under any circumstances.
Be mindful of making a little extra noise when you enter the room your cat is in. Cats startle easily anyway, but even more so if their vision is diminished. It can cause them to feel pretty vulnerable. Most cats can hear the footsteps and can even identify their particular “human” by the footsteps. I’ll often go ahead and talk to Alexa when I enter the room anyway. Some cat parents hum or whistle so they know they’re approaching, but, since I always over-think everything, I don’t want to do anything I wouldn’t normally do. I don’t normally whistle or hum… but, Heaven knows, I normally talk!
You can (and should) still play with your cat. Look for cat toys that make noise – ones that sound like a bird or mouse are especially fun for your cat. The “crinkling” toys are also a hoot and a half for them and catnip will be enjoyed as much now as ever. [See: Chickadee Chirp and the adorable Play-N-Squeak at Night Twinkle Mouse Light-Up Toy]
If your cat has completely lost their vision, consider confining them to a certain portion of the house. Sometimes, for the cat’s safety (and if they have trouble finding their litter box), it’s best to buy gates and confine them to a certain part of the house – even if it means removing them at nighttime so they can join you in the bedroom. Prissy completely lost her vision and had to be confined to a particular area – which she didn’t seem to mind. By the time a cat has gotten so old that he/she loses vision, they’re too old to worry about roaming much anyway. They remind me of a grandfather in his favorite recliner – there’s no place he’d rather be!
Speaking of litter boxes…. If your cat’s vision “isn’t what it used to be,” they will locate their litter box by memory and/or smell. In other words, this isn’t the time to move it around or mask the odor with a new scent you’ve never used before. Simply keep the routine and location the same as it has always been. Trust me, your cat will adapt much better than you think she will.
Don’t rearrange furniture or add a new piece unexpectedly. Cats are very much creatures of habit and know where things in their castle are located and they expect them to be there. When Prissy lost her vision completely, I was amazed to watch her navigate through the house. It was as though she knew exactly how many steps would take her from her food dish to her favorite napping place (the living room couch). She’d walk the distance, then veer to the left in order to find the couch or, as she knew it, bed. If I had, for some inexplicable reason, moved the couch or placed a large piece of furniture (or even basket of magazines, for that matter) in her path – she’d have been frustrated and completely thrown for a loop.
Your cat needs routine, calmness, and NORMAL. In addition to making your cat comfortable and safe, keep in mind that she/he needs a certain set of things from you now more than ever: He/she needs the routine to remain the same – if you always chilled on the couch with your cat each evening, continue to do so. Stay calm and don’t let your emotions get in your way or in your cat’s way. You still have your cat in your life – they simply need you more than ever. It is as though he or she is a kitten again and relies on you greatly. Cherish the extra opportunities to pamper them! I actually read where a woman held her cat and cried onto his fur for 10 minutes when she discovered that he could no longer see. Poor cat! I can’t even begin to imagine what he thought!
Be PATIENT. Never become annoyed or irritable with your cat if he gets under your feet – I don’t care how busy you are.
Be CALM. Your cat needs and even craves calmness and good old-fashioned peace and quiet.

If you have any tips of your own, please leave comments below.

~ Joi (“Joy”)

P.S. Stay Calm!

Prissy (at 19) Enjoying Whipped Topping from a Starbucks Drink

How to Keep Indoor Cats Active, Entertained, and FAR from Bored

March 11, 2016 By Joi

EDIT: Since writing the article below on tips for keeping your inside cat entertained, we’ve added several additional cats (a brother and sisters) for Alexa. Turns out, IF the cat is open to the idea, having other cats around is one of the funnest things for a cat. Endless, built-in entertainment!

Keeping indoor cats active (mentally and physically) is one of the healthiest (and most loving) things we can do for them. Outdoor cats have an ever-changing environment. While the outdoors is a more dangerous place for an animal to live, it can be infinitely more interesting and stimulating. After all, one never knows what you’re going to see outside, whereas the indoors (while safe and climate controlled) can be monotonous for the single most curious animal in the world!

Luckily, this can be easily taken care of by providing your curious little one(s) with plenty of originality and change – which always fascinates a cat.

With my inside cats, over the years, I have always had a system in place where I frequently “trade out” toys. I’ll put a few toys away for a few weeks, while old favorites are brought back out.
I often buy my inside cat (Alexa) a new toy. She knows that when I come home with several bags in tow, one of them holds something for her. She scrutinizes each bag like a two-year old!
I place her toys in different spots throughout the house. I leave her VERY favorite cat toys where she leaves them, after all I don’t want to stress her out or get myself in trouble – but I’ll frequently place a ball, toy mouse, or other toy in spots to catch her off guard.
Many cat parents believe their cats have “outgrown” playing when, truth be told, they’re simply bored with the status quo. Mix things up! Boredom for a cat is as dangerous and uncomfortable as stress is for a human.
A little experimenting will help you discover what your cat’s favorite types of toys are. Some prefer toy mice while others barely glance at a toy mouse but will go gaga over a ball. Catnip toys are almost always a hit – however, the catnip does kind of wear off, which means you have to replace the toy after a while.
ALWAYS be certain that the toys are safe. Frequently inspect them for anything and everything that could pose a danger to your cat… loose parts, for example that could potentially choke them.
Get down on the floor with them and play with them. I’ll let you in on a secret… it’s as good for you as it is for them!
This may fall under the category of “crazy cat lady,” but I’ve never let that stop me before: When you’re reading, sorting coupons, writing, etc.. either lift your cat so she/he can supervise you or get down on their level. What’s mundane to us can be utterly fascinating to a cat. Alexa is mesmerized by writing. She’ll concede to watch for a while, then inevitably will reach the point where she can’t take the temptation any longer… then…. whoosh!… she starts swatting wildly at the pen.
Cat Tunnels are fascinating for cats! They love running in and out and can sometimes even be found napping inside the tunnel.
A great (sturdy) cat tree is something I consider a MUST for inside cats. They have so much fun climbing, scratching, and sleeping on their own cat tree. When we got one, we literally wondered what had taken so long. It’s a wonderful, wonderful gift for your cat.

Keeping Your Indoor Cats Happy (Infographic)

February 12, 2016 By Joi

Keeping Your Cat Happy Iindoors by Terrys Fabrics.

Caring for Cats and Dogs in Winter

December 23, 2014 By Joi

Winter months present special concerns for our beloved cats and dogs. While obvious needs, such as extra warmth for outdoor pets, are on all pet lovers’ minds, there are other needs that we need to take into consideration as well.

Below is a great guest article addressing these very needs.

Overcoming Pet Winter Woes

by Paul Mann

Like humans, pets can experience winder doldrums. Even those living in warmer weather regions are still affected by seasonal changes, which can be especially tough on dogs and cats–particularly those that are used to spending time outdoors.

Beyond the obvious challenge of pets getting less exercise during the winter months, dogs and cats often experience less emotional stimulation during this period and can suffer a variety of adversities, including excessive weight gain, irritability, anxiety and even clinical depression. This can lead to a variety of unsavory behaviors and dissatisfaction for all involved. The more outdoor-oriented the pet, the higher probability that these and other problems will present and persist through the season.

Fortunately, there are a few simple things pet owners can do to physically engage and psychologically stimulate their pets and make everyone happier during the long, cold winter months:

Indoor/Outdoor Fitness
Most dog breeds need to go outside 2-3 times a day, not only to relieve themselves, but also to get some form of exercise and sensory stimulation. Dogs are more likely to go outside in nearly any kind of weather and often love a romp in the snow. Taking your dog outdoors will trigger its natural play instincts. Running, jumping and chasing are natural ways to energize your pet, burn calories and boost metabolism. If you’re not up to the task amid Mother Nature, consider hiring a professional dog walker to happily take on the duty. Indoors, tried-and-true games like fetch, tug-of-war and wrestling can also serve as a great workout that also stimulates a pet’s appetite.

Cats also love to pounce and play, and if they’re stuck in the house you can easily brighten their day with 10-15 minutes of play each day. String, laser pointers, objects on strings and other enticing toys dragged around get your cat into chase mode, keep her busy and burning energy. Find or install a perch by a window where your cat can watch the birds. For those cats that pine to be outdoors, the marketplace has an abundance of outdoor enclosures that also allows cats to run, roam and prance freely in the invigorating fresh air. Of course, moderate the time spent in these enclosures based on the winter weather conditions.

For both dogs and cats, keep a set of toys and laser pointer handy for an energized and sustained play session, either indoors or out, at least once daily. When outdoor play just isn’t an option, there are a number of motorized animal treadmills on the market today that are entirely enjoyable and effective for exercising both Fido and Felix.

Counting Calories
If your dog or cat doesn’t get outdoors as much in the winter as they normally do, it likely doesn’t need to eat as much food. Reducing food and calorie intake generally means less weight gain and more energy. If you often give your pets treats, consider hiding them inside toys, such as freezing kibble inside a “Kong,” to give them prolonged busy work.

As with humans, weight maintenance is all about portion control. Feed your pet using a designated measuring cup so that you know exactly how much food they’re consuming each day. If you still aren’t getting the desired results, call the pet food company for dietary recommendations to ensure you aren’t over-feeding—especially as seasonal dietary requirements change when a pet becomes less active. Automated pet feeding systems are also helpful. These tech tools utilize a wireless tag attached to a pet’s collar to regulate and monitor one or more pet’s food intake to ensure the pet isn’t eating too much or too little at once or throughout the day—also keeping multiple pets away from each other’s food.

Let There Be Light
Pets react to illumination just like humans do. Their energy level increases when the light is brighter. According to Animal Behavior College, “The People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals found that approximately 40 percent of dog owners saw a considerable downturn in their pet’s moods during the winter months” and that related symptoms in pets “typically manifest as behavioral changes such as inappropriate soiling, aggression, lethargy and separation anxiety.” The report notes that “Light is intimately tied to the functioning of the pituitary and endocrine glands, and can stimulate the body to release hormones that have an uplifting effect on mood.” If it’s too cold to go out, simply open the drapes and let the natural light in, turn up your indoor lights, and consider replacing bulbs with the full spectrum or daylight variety to better simulate a daytime environment. A company called Pawsitive Lighting, has even developed a light box to help conquer those wintertime blues.

Animal-Rousing Aromas
Scented toys can really engage an animal’s interests and natural stalking instincts, also keeping them occupied and mentally focused as they try to find the source of the smell. Luckily dogs respond to a variety of smells and there are seemingly infinite availability of toys that engage canine olfaction—alone and in combination with other senses that can be concurrently engaged. A game of hide and seek can go a log way with your pooch!

For cats that respond well to catnip, there are catnip and other “play sprays” that can be squirted onto indoor climbing structures, cardboard boxes, and scratching posts. A multi-story cat climber or “tree” with strategically placed low-cal treats or scented play toys can readily get kitty jumping from level to level and its heart pumping in kind.

With just a little planning, you can help ensure your pet’s winter season remains happy and healthy, with a great quality of life for everyone in the household.

Paul Mann is the Founder and CEO of Fetch! Pet Care—the nation’s largest and most trusted franchisor for professional pet sitting, dog walking, and pet fitness/exercise services—serving thousands of pets and pet parents throughout the United States from coast to coast. He may be reached online at: www.FetchPetCare.com.

Source: http://www.animalbehaviorcollege.com/blog/does-wintertime-blues-effect-your-pet/

Safety Travel Tips When Tagging Along Pet Cats

October 15, 2014 By Joi

In the picture above, Svenn seems to be saying, “You want me to get into that death trap and go where???” That’s pretty much every cat, everywhere’s attitude toward travel. The article below gives great (as in sanity-preserving) advice on traveling with cats.

Jordan contributes to this blog as well as Coops and Cages. He has taken his own cats and dogs to trips himself and would love to share his insights on pet care to fellow pet lovers. He desires to educate them on safety travel tips when bringing along cats during trips through this article.

It’s time of the year that your cat is looking forward to – the time when you take him out of the house and with you to new places. Cats like to travel as well. They like seeing the countryside. They are not satisfied with just staying home.

The problem is some cats hate cars. They are not as behaved as most dogs when you get them into the car. You have to train them on how to behave when you are traveling with them. Teach them not to scratch the car seat and better yet, not to pee. But as a cat owner, you also have to remember that a the first cat car trip aren’t always that pleasant, simply because, cats as much as they like venturing into new places, the getting there is not that exciting for them.

Here are tips on traveling safely with your cats.

Take the time to train your cat in the carrier
Since you will be traveling for long hours, train your cat to stay in his cat carrier for long periods. Condition your cat to become comfortable as well as teach him how to go in and out. Do some practice runs of driving around your area and having the cat in the carrier. This should be a gradual process. Some cats get upset when you turn the car engine on, especially those who haven’t traveled.

Familiarize your cat in the new environment
Cats are sensitive to the environment as well as their territory. Place a blanket or towel with the scent of your cat on the car seat. In that way the car would not be a totally foreign area for him. Allow your cat to explore your car and rub and spread its scent on it. Do this a couple of times for the next few days.

Air Travel for Cats
Most major airlines accept cats as passengers. Cats that are under 15 lbs travel in the cabin. If they are heavier, they must be booked in cargo or they should be in cat carriers. There are some seasonal restrictions so it is better to check with the airline what these are. When booking your flight, inform the representative that you have a feline with you. Get a locator number associated with the seat for your cat. This is a necessary security precaution. If this is your cat’s first time to fly, it is better that it is a short distance. Observe how he acts and behaves during the ride. You will be asked if your cat has its rabies and other pertinent inoculation. Various requirements exist for each airline and just accommodate to them as best as you can.

Feed the cat at the right time
Once the cat is calm in the car, give him his meals. Offer high value treats for cats that he doesn’t normally get at home. In that way, he is more motivated to behave. You can also give him cat nip and also indulge with his favorites during the car traveling times. He should also know you are there beside him so he shouldn’t be scared.

Don’t forget your pet identification
This is a necessity especially when it is your first time to travel to new places. Tags and collars are an excellent for quick identification. A microchip is something you can also order and it provides the essential information needed once the tags or collars are lost. Keep the microchip registered and updated.

Check with hotels if they allow cats
When you book for your trips, check if they have the “pets accepted” symbol on their homepages and if they allow cats in hotels. When checking, be sure to inform the front desk that your cat is traveling with you. Many hotels also provide snacks and bowls for your cats. They also have sitting services. Some hotels have “pet in room” door tag which let the maids know that they should leave the door open so the pet cannot wander out. You can keep cats secure and safe by having them in a safe and sturdy cat crate. They should just be the right size because you wouldn’t want your cat wiggling out of the cage. Make sure that the room for the food and the litter box are separate. Get the crate with the sides so that the litter cannot be kicked out.

Pack a travel bag for your cat
The bag should also contain medication (if your cat is currently on), plastic bags (for soiled litter), litter scoop, grooming supplies, treats, pet wipes, toys, towels, as well as the cat’s food and water bowls. Treat it as something like a baby would have. Your cat is your baby and he too needs a travel bag.

Positive Reinforcement helps
The minute that your cat is calm in the car, start giving him catnips. If that motivates him, let the cat indulge for a while in the car. By positively reinforcing your cat that he is doing a good job, he will enjoy traveling more and more.

Don’t forget to make the cat go potty
The cats’ trip begins and ends in the bathroom. Before leaving your house, make sure that your cat has gone to the bathroom. The first thing you also do after you alight is to let your cat out for a few minutes. With your guidance, he should poop or pee before you even check in the hotel. If your crate is the one that has the litter, clear the poop and pee. Potty breaks are also included. If it is a drive, stop at restaurants or gas stops and bring your cat with you. Take him out and see if he has to go or not.

Feed your cat four hours before leaving
The cat has to have eaten a light meal before you put him in the carrier. If your trip would take long, feed him just the right amount. You wouldn’t want him pooping and peeing a lot. This wouldn’t be sanitary inside the car, worse, on the plane.

Whether it’s including your cat while running errands around town or visiting relatives in another side of the country, you can make him happy by bringing them with you. Train your cat on how to become more comfortable when traveling in the car with you. It will take some time and a lot of patience but it will be totally worth it.

Author Bio:

Jordan is the lead content curator for Coops And Cages as well as a couple of other pet related blogs. His passion for animals is only matched byhis love for ‘attempting’ to play the guitar. If you would like to catch him, you can via Google+ or Twitter: @CoopsAndCages.
Author Bio:

10 Things to Do if Your Pet is Lost

July 11, 2014 By Joi

July is Lost Pet Prevention, which is something I’m excited about. Lost pet signs always make me feel like crying. As someone who loves her cats like they’re family (which they are, of course), the thought of anyone helplessly searching for their furry little loved one breaks my heart. Been there, done that, and hope to never walk in those shoes again.

Below is a great article that was generously shared with Cat Pause’s readers. I hope with all my heart you’ll never need the advice, but here it is, just in case. In honor of the month, I’m currently working on an article, “Ways to Keep Your Pet From Ending Up in the Lost and Found!” which I’ll post asap.

Even if your pets are safe and secure, read the article because the advice is priceless – and even if you never, personally, need it, you may one day know someone who will. I would add posting on Facebook and Twitter to #6. Bottom line is you want to put as many animal lovers on the case as possible. My youngest daughter and I once spent a couple of hours on a hot summer afternoon looking for a lost dog for someone. Fortunately the little cutie was found – dirty, exhausted, and greatly relieved to see his family!

I’d also add this: when looking for your cat or dog, having one person in the car and one or more walking is ideal. Most pets actually know the sound of the family car and (especially dogs) may respond to it as quickly as they will the sound of your voice. Also, walk slowly as you call – giving them time to respond. Cats, especially, go through quite a “thought process” before making a move.

10 Things to Do if Your Pet is Lost

Nearly one in five lost pets goes missing after being scared by the sound of fireworks, thunderstorms or other loud noises, according to a survey by The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. And, while losing your pet can be a traumatic experience for both you and your pet, have hope as 93% of dogs and 75% of cats reported lost are returned safely to their homes according to another survey.

If you do lose your pet, here are 10 top tips to help reunite you with your furry friend as quickly as possible:

Contact or visit your local shelters and animal control organizations. File a lost pet report with every shelter, dog pound and animal control office within a 60-mile radius of your home and visit the nearest shelters daily, if possible.
Get the word out to all veterinarians in the area. Sometimes people pick up a stray and drive it to a distant clinic.
Search your neighborhood. Walk or drive through your neighborhood several times each day. Enlist friends, family and others to help you. Ask neighbors, letter carriers, and delivery people if they have seen your pet. Hand out a recent photograph of your pet and information on how you can be reached if your pet is found.
Go door to door and speak with your neighbors. The more people know you have lost a pet, and that you are upset, worried and desperately trying to find your pet, the more people will call you if they see an animal in the woods or on the road, or in their backyard.
Place posters and flyers throughout the neighborhood. Post notices at grocery stores, community centers, veterinary offices, traffic intersections, at pet supply stores, and other locations. Also, place advertisements in newspapers and with radio stations. Include your pet’s sex, age, weight, breed, color, and any special markings. To avoid scams, when describing your pet, leave out one identifying characteristic and ask the person who finds your pet to describe it.
Post info about your pet on all pet recovery websites and services. Sites such as Craigslist.org, TheCenterForLostPets.com and FidoFinder.com allow you to broadcast your missing pet info quickly. National pet care providers can be hired to assist you in your search for your lost pet.
Consider using a lost pet recovery service. There are now numerous lost pet alert services, such as FindToto.com, that will contact homes, veterinarians, shelters and animal control organizations for a reasonable fee.
Place food and water outside your home. Your pet may eventually return to your home when they get hungry or thirsty. Consider placing the food in a rented or purchased humane pet trap to capture them.
Tell everyone you see about your pet and ask them to keep their eyes open for her. The more people you alert about your missing pet, the greater the chance someone will recollect seeing your pet in their area.
Don’t give up. Be aggressive in your search, get lots of help, get the word out right away – don’t wait a few hours “to see if she’ll come home on her own “– you need those early hours to put up posters and start your search.

About the Author: Paul Mann is the Founder the CEO of Fetch! Pet Care—the nation’s largest and most trusted franchisor for professional pet sitting, dog walking, and pet fitness/exercise services—serving thousands of pets and pet parents throughout the United States from coast to coast. He may be reached online at: www.FetchPetCare.com.

How to Keep Outside Cats Warm this Winter

September 23, 2012 By Joi

While we have one inside cat (Alexa the Diva), we also have two beloved outside cats (Hannah and Queen Fatima). Needless to say, when cold weather hits, thoughts of keeping our outside little girls warm are in the front of our collective minds. We live outside the city limits with a garage and an abandoned barn beside us. Fatima is wonderful about heading off to the garage (which we keep cracked for them to get in and out of) or even the barn, but Hannah?

She always seems afraid that she’s going to miss something and doesn’t leave the carport until snow, ice, hail, or a tornado force her into the garage. Even then, as soon as the coast is clear, she’s back to her favorite spot by the back door!

If Alexa weren’t so set in her ways, the solution would be obvious – bring them inside. But, alas, Alexa claims “First come, first served” rights and there you have it. She who must be obeyed…. must be obeyed.

Don’t worry about Miss Hannah, though. I have become quite the accomplished tent builder for my adorable little girl. Last winter was ridiculously mild here in Kentucky, so my Abdul the Tent-maker skills served Hannah well. However, I’ve heard that this winter is supposed to be a really bad one, so I’m trying to step up my game.

One of the things I’ve found so far is the Slumber Pet Thermal Cat Mat – Color Gray (shown above). This thermal mat is available in gray, blue, or beige.

Thermal Cat Bed Features:

Thermal cat mat keeps cats warm and comfortable without the use of electricity
This cozy mat features a lightweight core that actually reflects pet’s own body heat back to the animal
Provides soothing comfort to cats, kittens, aging pets, nursing females, or animals recovering from illness or injury
Machine-washable pad features a leopard-print motif that reverses to solid black berber fleece and it includes a hangtag
Measures 22-inch length by 18 1/2-inch width

Product Description

This cozy mat features a lightweight core that actually reflects pet’s own body heat back to the animal. Provides soothing comfort to cats, kittens, aging pets, nursing females, or animals recovering from illness or injury. Machine-washable pad features a leopard-print motif that reverses to solid black berber fleece. Machine wash in cold water on gentle cycle. Line dry. It includes a hangtag. Available in gray color. Measures 22-inch length by 18 1/2-inch width.

I also found the K&H Outdoor Kitty House, Heated (pictured on the left – click through for different… much larger… views). This Outdoor Heated Kitty House is made with 600 denier nylon and features a vinyl backing that makes it waterproof.

Your cat’s own warm little house comes with and accommodates a Lectro Soft Outdoor Heated Kitty Bed that uses only 20-watts. The roof hangs over the 2 doors to keep cats warm, safe and dry. Easy to assemble with velcro walls and a zippered roof.

My favorite part (aside from the whole keeping cats warm and dry part) is this: There’s a back door! Two exits mean your cat can’t be trapped by another cat, a dog that likes to play too tough, or skunk that wants to snuggle.

Outdoor Heated Cat House Features:

Perfect for any outdoor cat
Waterproof for use anywhere outdoors
Two exits so pet can not be trapped by predators
No tools needed to assemble
MET Listed and 1-year warranty

Click through either link or picture for more information. Each is actually on sale right now – marked WAY down. That’s always a bonus as far as I’m concerned! 🙂

Top Cat Poisons: Household Products, Medicines, and Plants

June 7, 2012 By Joi

Hannah, Showing Off!

I think that most of us cat lovers don’t really realize how often cats are harmed (and often killed) by poisons they come in contact with in their home or yard. I know that when I read that, in 2011 alone, the ASPCA fielded 166,000 calls about cases of pet poisoning, I was alarmed. When you consider that at least that many probably went unreported, it’s staggering.

While we think we know what things are harmful to our precious cats and what things could even poison them, it’s always a great idea to refresh ourselves. It’s also a smart idea to let anyone and everyone who comes into contact with the feline members of the family know that some things are completely off limits.

WebMD recently ran a great article detailing the top cat poisons. A few are listed below – but I hope you’ll click through and read the entire list. Please pass the link around to everyone you know. By doing so, you could be saving a cat from a world of pain, sickness and suffering. What’s more, you could save her life.

The top five sources of cat poisoning in 2011 were:

1. Medications for people. Pets have a much greater sensitivity to many of the common over-the-counter and prescription medications that may be in your home.

Some of the medications that often poison cats include:

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen or naproxen. The most common cause of pet poisoning, these painkillers can cause ulcers in the stomach and intestines, and kidney damage.
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is particularly toxic to cats, resulting in red blood cell damage. Just two extra-strength tablets may prove fatal to felines.
Antidepressants may cause vomiting and, in more serious instances, serotonin syndrome – a dangerous condition that raises temperature, heart rate, and blood pressure, and may cause seizures.
Methylphenidate, an attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) drug, is a stimulant for pets, raising heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature.

2. House plants. Cats are notorious for noshing on houseplants, and the habit isn’t just bad for your potted treasures. Many common, beautiful houseplants contain cat poisons that can cause serious harm, and even death. Some of the plants toxic to cats include:

Lilies. Ingesting even small amounts of Easter lilies and related plants can cause severe kidney failure in cats.
Azaleas and rhododendrons. These pretty flowering plants contain toxins that may result in vomiting, diarrhea, coma, and sometimes even death.
Tulips and daffodils. The bulbs of these plants, if ingested, may cause serious stomach problems, convulsions, and damage to the heart.
Sago palms. Eating just a few seeds may be enough to cause vomiting, seizures, and liver failure.

Please read the other cat poisons and keep your precious cats safe. Some of the hidden dangers will surprise you. We all have to keep in mind that leaving residual household cleaner on the floor (or anywhere our cats sit or lie) could pose a real problem. They may not lick it off of the floor or table (though I wouldn’t put it past some cats!), but if any gets on their fur, they WILL lick it when they give themselves a bath.

« Previous Page

Tips for Making Older Cats More Comfortable

Thermal Warming Pad for Outside (or Inside!) Cats Couldn’t Be Safer…

How to Care for a Cat Who Has Diminished Vision or is Totally Blind

How to Keep Indoor Cats Active, Entertained, and FAR from Bored

Keeping Your Indoor Cats Happy (Infographic)

Caring for Cats and Dogs in Winter

Overcoming Pet Winter Woes

Safety Travel Tips When Tagging Along Pet Cats

10 Things to Do if Your Pet is Lost

10 Things to Do if Your Pet is Lost

How to Keep Outside Cats Warm this Winter

Thermal Cat Bed Features:

Product Description

Outdoor Heated Cat House Features:

Top Cat Poisons: Household Products, Medicines, and Plants

#1 Best-Seller on Amazon

An Ingenious Litter Box…

Christmas EVERYDAY!

Cat Tunnel..

Photographs on the Blog

Keep Your Indoor Cat Active and Entertained