5 Ways to Keep Your Cat Happy and Healthy

(Family Features) While cats can be quite independent animals, they still rely on their pet parents to maintain their well-being. It’s up to pet owners to provide the adequate care, nutrition and home environment to ensure their furry friends live long and healthy lives.

Consider these tips and visit temptationstreats.com and iams.com for further guidance on raising healthy and happy cats.

1. Designate a Special Spot – Make sure your cat has a space in the home where he can be unbothered and relax. This space can also be somewhere your cat can hide or snuggle up. Putting a cat tree with a lookout in a quiet spot can give your pet a perfect place for a catnap.

2. Provide a Healthy Diet – Diet is a vital part of your cat’s health and wellness, and it’s important to find a food that caters to your pet’s specific needs and preferences. Look for food that fits your cat’s needs like senior care, hairball control and oral care, so he receives the best nutrition at every life stage. For example, IAMS™ formulas provide wet and dry food options tailored to your pet’s age, activity level and dietary needs.

3. Regular Checkups – Cats are notoriously secretive about how they are feeling. Scheduling regular visits with your local veterinarian for vaccinations and checkups can ensure your pets are as healthy as they can be. Ask your vet how often you should schedule appointments, as every cat requires unique care.

4. Groom Regularly – While cats may not need regular baths, they do sometimes need a little extra TLC to look their best. Depending on breed and lifestyle, each cat requires a different grooming routine. Longhaired cats should be brushed regularly to keep their coats nice and shiny while indoor cats may need their nails trimmed more frequently to avoid scratching.

5. Playtime with Toys and Treats – Enrichment and bonding are key factors in a pet’s well-being. Providing stimuli, like toys or scratching surfaces, encourages your furry friend’s curiosity and natural behavior. Dedicate time each day to play and snuggle up with your cat to solidify your bond. A simple shake of abag of treats, such as TEMPTATIONS™ treats, can make your cat come running and signal it’s time to play.

Photos courtesy of Fotolia

Keep Pets Safe this Halloween

(Family Features) Halloween isn’t just for humans; four-legged friends have plenty of opportunity to get in on the fun, too. However, it’s important to take some pet precautions that allow the whole family to enjoy the holiday safely, as the costumes and excitement can be overwhelming and some of the candy is even dangerous.

As you’re filling the candy buckets and assembling the perfect costumes, be sure to heed these tips from the experts at PetSmart for a Halloween filled with pet-friendly fun:

Out and about
Make sure pets have proper identification by microchipping and registering your pet’s microchip, and keeping identification and registration tags on their collars. This is especially important around Halloween, when open doors offer more opportunity for escape.

If your pet will be joining the family while trick-or-treating, be sure they are visible to motorists by using a reflective collar, harness or leash.

Costume concerns
Just like with children, there are safety issues to consider when costuming your pets. Not all dogs like wearing clothes and some may become stressed or agitated while wearing a costume or sweater. However, many dogs just need a little coaxing and positive reinforcement.

• Start with a simple accessory, like a bandana, working your way up to a costume.
• Make sure costumes include eye and ear holes, and if they don’t, consider removing whole portions of the costume to ensure your pet’s ability to see, hear and breathe. Make sure there isn’t anything that could be a tripping hazard. Also, be sure to check the costume for little parts within biting or chewing distance.
• Dogs can overheat easily, so ensure your dog’s clothing is not too bulky or heavy if the weather is warm.
• In the end, the top priority should be your pet’s comfort level.

Hazardous food and decorations
“It’s fun to include our pets in our celebrations, but it’s also important to be aware of the dangers associated with Halloween to ensure their safety,” said Jennifer Freeman, DVM, PetSmart’s resident veterinarian and pet care expert. “Keep chocolate and candy out of paws’ reach. Xylitol, a sugar substitute found in candy, gum, mints and baked goods, is toxic to pets and can cause liver damage.”

Keep the Halloween fun going by establishing some rules for your family and any guests joining the festivities:

• Xylitol can be extremely dangerous to pets, even in small amounts. Just 1/8 teaspoon can cause dangerously low blood sugar in dogs and 1/2 teaspoon can cause liver damage. If xylitol is consumed by your pet, take him or her to a veterinarian immediately.
• Natural stimulants in chocolate can cause a range of symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea and abnormal heart rhythm.
• Raisins may cause a toxic reaction in dogs from vomiting to kidney failure.
• Cellophane, plastic and paper from candy wrappers and lollipop sticks can cause gastrointestinal upset.
• As an alternative to sharing dangerous snacks, stock up on some seasonal dog-friendly treats and set out a pet-specific bowl.

Seasonal decorations can also pose a threat:

• Fall decorations like jack-o’-lanterns can cause gastrointestinal upset.
• Glow sticks can cause irritation, agitation and vomiting.
• Hot wax and flames from candles can potentially burn your pet's nose, tongue or tail.

Don’t forget the fun
Despite some concerns, Halloween can still provide fun moments for your pet:

• Take your dog along for trick-or-treating.
• Allow your four-legged friend to greet trick-or-treaters at the door.
• Encourage friends to dress up their pets and join the festivities.

Find more tips and tricks for keeping your pets safe this Halloween at PetSmart.com.

5 Tips for Keeping Your Cat Happy and Healthy

(Family Features) While the weather may change from summer to fall, your relationship with your feline never goes out of season. Events on the calendar can seem to pile up as the year goes on, but don’t forget to go the extra mile for your pet and show him how much he means to you.

Whether the sun is shining, the leaves are changing colors or there is snow on the ground, these five tips can help you bond with your cat all year long and make sure he is feeling his best.

For more information on keeping your cat happy and healthy, visit cravepetfoods.com and greenies.com.

Photo courtesy of Fotolia

1. Create Space to Play

Just like humans and dogs, cats have energy they need to expel throughout the day. Help your cat feel like a member of the family by giving him a dedicated space in the house where you can play together. It can also double as a place to keep his toys.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

2. Fuel Playtime with a High-Quality Diet

Even the cutest and cuddliest kitties share a connection with their ancestors, so to respect the animal inside, nourish your pet with his natural desires in mind. One purr-worthy option is CRAVE™ cat food, which is made with high-quality animal protein and no grains. The recipes provide the nutrients needed for a strong, lean body and the energy to chase – even if it’s just a toy around the house.

Photo courtesy of Fotolia

3. Toys are a Cat’s Best Friends

Cats are curious by nature and almost always looking for something to get their paws on. Have a variety of toys on-hand, such as laser pointers, feather wands and stuffed mice, which can give your cat the chance to practice his pouncing skills. Not only is this a great form of exercise, but it also allows him to exert his instincts to chase.

Photo courtesy of Fotolia

4. Keep Him Smiling

When considering your cat’s health, don’t forget about oral care. Dental treats such as GREENIES™ Dental Treats help freshen breath and clean your cat’s teeth, helping to keep bad breath from getting in the way of cuddles with your favorite feline.

Photo courtesy of Fotolia

5. Spend Quality Time Together

Don’t let a busy life get in the way of spending quality time and building companionship with your cat. If your schedule is full, try checking off your to-do list with your cat by your side. Fold your laundry or do work in the same room so he knows you’re there. You can also squeeze in snuggle time as you wind down and watch television or read a book before bed.

Keep Up with Your Cat’s Health

(Family Features) Despite the fact that cats are more prevalent as pets than dogs, only about one cat per every five dogs receives regular veterinary care. In fact, some research suggests that as many as 50 percent of cat owners don’t take their cats to the vet.

There are a number of factors that contribute to limited veterinary visits for cats. According to a survey by Royal Canin, two-thirds of cat owners simply believe cats have fewer health issues than dogs. However, according to the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP), routine check-ups are vital for giving cats long, happy and healthy lives.

Cats age more rapidly than humans, and they are quite adept at hiding sickness and pain, making it difficult to know if there is something wrong that requires veterinary attention. Hidden diseases commonly go untreated for this reason, which is why the Take Your Cat to the Vet initiative was created to spread awareness about the importance of preventative feline veterinary care.

For example, up to one-third of cats over the age of 12 have some form of kidney disease. Managing the progression of the disease, if caught early, can be accomplished with a proper diagnosis and reduced-phosphorous diet. Your veterinarian may recommend an option like one of the Royal Canin Veterinary Diet® Renal Support formulas as part of a treatment program.

Obesity is also a common problem for cats that can lead to more severe health issues down the road. In fact, multiple studies indicate that more than half of the nation’s domestic cats are carrying more weight than they should. A veterinarian can help with dietary recommendations and other suggestions to help trim your cat’s waistline, along with screening for the onset of secondary complications.

Another common cat ailment is urinary stones, which can be extremely painful and cannot normally be detected without professional evaluation. Regular visits to the vet can help assess your cat’s risk for developing stones and determine nutritional changes that may help prevent a problem.

Vet visits are also an opportunity to let your veterinarian know about any behavior changes and implement preventive care measures, which can be more effective than reactive care once a problem is revealed.

However, the very act of getting to the vet can be traumatic for cat owners and cats alike. Repetition is likely to help alleviate those concerns as your cat becomes more accustomed to the process, helping to put you at ease as well. In honor of the Take Your Cat to the Vet initiative, consider these tips and tricks from the experts at Royal Canin and the AAFP to make your cat’s visits to the veterinarian easier:

 

1. Get your cat familiar with a carrier. Getting your cat into the carrier is often the most difficult part of getting him or her to the vet. Start by leaving the carrier out at all times and make it a safe place by placing food or a cozy towel inside. Using a secure, stable, hard-sided carrier that opens from the top and the front that can also be taken apart in the middle is best. When traveling, it’s also a good idea to place your cat in the carrier rear-first, cover the carrier with a blanket and avoid bumping into things while carrying it.

2. Make the vet visit a positive experience. It’s easy to imagine that vet visits can seem scary to a cat. Feeding your cat veterinary-approved treats from carrier to clinic can help create a positive connection with the trip and distract your pet from the busy waiting room or examination.

3. Take advantage of slow times at the clinic. The waiting room of an animal hospital can be loud and full of unfamiliar animals and smells, making it a chaotic and overwhelming environment. Ask if certain days or times are slower than others. Scheduling appointments at those times may help your cat feel less overwhelmed by a new environment.

4. Give your cat practice exams. In the examination room, your vet will give your cat a full examination. To make your cat comfortable with being touched in such a manner, consider giving him or her practice examinations at home and positively reward your pet for letting you look at and touch his or her stomach, feet, face and ears.

5. Talk to your vet. Your veterinarian is your best partner to help your cat feel comfortable inside and outside the clinic. Discuss with him or her other ideas to help make visits less stressful.

To learn more about the importance of taking your cat the vet, visit royalcanin.com/cat2vetday.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

4 Feline Summer Health and Safety Tips

(Family Features) Summer may be the perfect time for family trips and outdoor activities, but it’s also a great time to reset and make sure you’re keeping the whole family healthy, including your feline friend.

To live their best lives, cats need to feel healthy from the inside out, and much of that stems from what they eat. Help your cat stay active, healthy and safe during the summer months by following these tips from the experts at the IAMS™ brand.

1. Focus on Food – Cats are natural carnivores and need the proper amount of protein in their diets. One way to get that is with IAMS High Protein cat food, which is formulated with 84 percent of protein sourced from chicken and salmon. The high concentration of high-quality chicken and salmon helps cats maintain strong muscles and keeps them active.

Other key elements to look for in a high-quality dry cat food include:

• Optimal levels of fatty acids for a soft and shiny coat
• A fiber blend, including prebiotics and beet pulp, for healthy digestion
• A good mix of premium, high-quality ingredients to support healthy energy levels

Photo courtesy of Fotolia

2. Prioritize Playtime – Though they tend to sleep a lot, especially in the heat, cats also require exercise. Playing a cat-and-mouse game with toys that encourage aerobic activity is one way to give your cat necessary exercise and create a fun bonding experience.

Photo courtesy of Fotolia

3. Keep Hydrated – Cats need help to stay hydrated, especially in warmer weather. Make sure their water dish is always full and consider placing a few additional water dishes throughout the house. Whatever rooms your cat is drawn to or wherever the family spends quality time, have water readily available so your pet can easily quench his or her thirst and avoid dehydration. You can also incorporate wet cat food to their routine for added moisture in their diet.

Photo courtesy of Fotolia

4. Create a Cool Space – When the weather is warm, your cat will likely seek out cool places in and around the house to lounge. Make sure he or she has plenty of shady places to lay and that those spots are free of clutter or obstacles. Cats are curious by nature, so tuck cables and cords away, limit the amount of free-standing, sharp or glass objects and keep anything with hazardous chemicals, such as cleaning supplies, locked away to help reduce the possibility of illness or injury.

For more information on establishing healthy habits for your feline friend, visit IAMS.com.

3 Ways to Help the Whole Family Eat Healthy

(Family Features) More and more people today are trying to eat a healthy diet, but oftentimes they don’t know where to begin. Eating healthy can be as simple as incorporating real foods – those that are as close to their native forms as possible – into everyday meals. That begins with choosing nutrient-rich ingredients; ones that are simple, each serving a precise purpose, and sourced from trusted farmers and suppliers.

Not only can you apply these standards to the foods you eat, but they can also be shared with the entire family, including your dog. For both humans and pets, healthy eating is all about being mindful of what you eat to satisfy your nutritional needs, and the ingredients that are good for you – and good for your pooch – might not be as different as you think.

There are three beneficial categories of foods that can be easily added to your plate to stay healthy – protein, healthy carbohydrates and vegetables – and with options like the NUTRO FEED CLEAN™ dry dog food recipes, you can easily get them into your dog’s bowl as well, fulfilling your furry friend’s nutritional needs and ensuring a healthy lifestyle for everyone in the family.

Eating a healthy diet can help both you and your pup stay active, so consider making the commitment together to eat (and feed) healthy foods.

For more information on the NUTRO FEED CLEAN™ philosophy and how to feed your pet a healthy diet and its benefits, visit NUTRO.com.

1. Protein Promotion – High-quality proteins, such as chicken and salmon, are important to incorporate into your everyday diet. Not only do these meats help to promote strong muscles, they also support a healthy immune system. That goes for your canine, too. These proteins help deliver the specific amino acids necessary to build muscle and maintain a healthy metabolism.

2. Stock Up on Healthy Carbohydrates – Adding healthy carbohydrates sources, like lentils and whole-grain brown rice, that also provide fiber in your meals helps nourish a healthy digestive system for proper nutrient absorption. When it comes to your pup, these fiber sources can help pets feel full, which may aid in weight management. Specially crafted, grain-free dry dog foods are also offered by the NUTRO™ brand, providing nutritious fiber sources without the grains.

3. Don’t Forget Your Vegetables – Starchy vegetables, such as sweet potatoes and peas, can give you a natural energy source and can help keep you moving. Dogs need this energy to keep active and energized all day long, which in turn can help promote a healthy weight. Sweet potatoes are also great-tasting and rich in vitamins and minerals.

4 Tips to Make the Most of Happy, Healthy Cat Month

(Family Features) September can traditionally be a busy month. With summer coming to an end and back-to-school season in full swing, there seems to always be something on the calendar.

For cat owners, September is also Happy, Healthy Cat Month. While you’re trading in beach towels for bag lunches, don’t forget to go the extra mile for your feline friends and show them how much they mean to you.

“Animals are beloved members of the family, so it’s important we make them feel that way,” said Dr. Jeff Werber, veterinarian and IAMS™ Cat spokesperson. “Whether it’s through proper nutrition to fuel fun play time or making time to snuggle, this is a perfect time of year to give our cats the love and appreciation they deserve.”

These four tips from Dr. Werber can help you celebrate and bond with your cat all year long. For more information on keeping your cat happy and healthy, visit IAMS.com.

1. Create space to play – Just like humans, cats have energy they need to exert throughout the day. Give your feline family member a dedicated space in the house where you can play together and keep his or her toys, like an at-home jungle gym or a box of laser lights and feathers.

2. Fuel playtime with a high-quality diet – Food can play a significant role in your cat’s overall happiness and health.

“I’ve been feeding my cats IAMS™ cat food for years,” Dr. Werber said. “The IAMS™ brand launched a product called High Protein, which I love. It provides cats with high-quality, animal-sourced protein that helps them maintain healthy vitality and fuel their carnivorous spirits.”

3. Toys are a cat’s best friend – By nature, cats are curious and on the prowl. Have a variety of toys on-hand, such as laser pointers, feather wands and stuffed mice, which can give them the chance to interact and pounce. Not only is this a great form of exercise but it also allows them to exert their predator instincts.

4. Spend quality time together – For cats, quality time can be spent in a variety of ways. If your schedule is busy, try folding your laundry or doing some work in the same room so they know you’re by their side. You can also squeeze in cuddle time with your furry friend as you wind down and watch television or read a book before bed. Spending time together can instill companionship between you and your pet.