COMMON REASONS A CAT STOPS USING THE LITTER BOX

When a cat stops using the litter box, it can be frustrating and puzzling for pet owners. It’s important to remember that this behavior is usually a sign that something is wrong, whether it’s related to cleanliness, health, or environment. By identifying the root cause, you can take steps to resolve the issue and help your cat feel comfortable using the litter box again. Here are some of the most common reasons for a cat stops using the litter box and what you can do to address them.

DIRTY LITTER BOX

Cats are naturally clean animals and can be very particular about their litter boxes. If a litter box isn’t scooped regularly, the smell can become overwhelming and offensive to them. The acidic odor of cat urine can irritate their sensitive noses and eyes, making them avoid the box altogether. A dirty litter box is one of the reasons a cat stops using the litter box. To prevent this, make sure you scoop the litter box daily and change the litter at least once a week. For households with multiple cats, you might need to clean the box more frequently, and when using a pet sitter, provide clear instructions on litter box maintenance.

HEALTH ISSUES

Health problems can cause a cat to stop using the litter box. If your cat strains to urinate or defecate, or if you notice blood in the urine, it’s essential to visit the vet immediately. Conditions like urinary tract infections or “blocked cat syndrome” in males can be fatal if untreated. Early veterinary intervention is crucial to prevent severe complications or even death. Regular check-ups and prompt attention to symptoms can ensure your cat stays healthy and comfortable.

FOOD AND LITTER AREAS ARE TOO CLOSE

Cats prefer not to eat and eliminate in the same area. If your cat’s litter box is placed too close to her food or water dishes, it can create a strong aversion. Moving the litter box to a different room or a separate corner can often resolve this issue. This simple adjustment can make a significant difference in your cat’s willingness to use the litter box. Ensuring there is enough distance between feeding and elimination areas helps maintain a clean and comfortable environment for your pet.

NOT ENOUGH PRIVACY

Cats need privacy when using the litter box, and placing it in a high-traffic area can make them feel exposed and anxious. If the litter box is in a busy part of the house, your cat might avoid using it. Moving the box to a quieter spot can provide the privacy your cat needs to feel secure. If relocating the box isn’t practical, consider using a covered litter box to offer some seclusion. Creating a calm and private environment for your cat can encourage consistent litter box use.

THEY DON’T LIKE THE BRAND OR TYPE OF LITTER

Not all litters are created equal, and your cat might have specific preferences. Some cats dislike the texture or smell of certain litters, particularly those with added fragrances or clumping properties. Experimenting with different types of litter can help you find one that your cat finds comfortable and acceptable. Cats may prefer unscented or finer granules that are gentle on their paws. Finding the right litter can significantly improve your cat’s willingness to use the litter box.

BEHAVIORAL ISSUES

Changes in your cat’s environment can cause stress and lead to litter box avoidance. Major changes, such as a new pet, moving homes, or alterations in routine, can make your cat anxious. Addressing these behavioral issues involves providing a stable and calm environment for your cat. Ensuring your cat has a quiet and safe space, and giving them extra attention and reassurance, can help them adjust. Understanding and mitigating these stressors is key to encouraging proper litter box use.

LITTER BOX CLEANING SERVICES IN AUSTIN & DALLAS

VIP Pet Services is here to help with all your cat’s care needs. From ensuring your cat’s litter box is clean to providing extra attention and care, we’ve got you covered. Our experienced cat sitters are trained to handle these common issues and ensure your cat is comfortable and happy. Contact us to discuss how we can support you and your furbaby. Your cat’s well-being is our top priority, so let’s work together to keep those litter boxes clean and your pets happy!

Remember, a clean litter box and a stress-free environment are essential for your cat’s health and happiness. Let’s ensure your cat feels comfortable and cared for at all times!

Hairballs are a common issue for cats, especially for long-haired breeds like Maine Coons and Persians, who tend to ingest more hair during grooming sessions. Older cats and fastidious groomers are also more susceptible to developing them due to their grooming habits.

HOW DO HAIRBALLS FORM?

Cats’ tongues are covered with tiny, slanted projections called papillae, which help collect loose hair during grooming. The ingested hair then travels to the stomach, where it can form into a cylindrical, cigar-shaped mass moistened by bile and digestive fluids.

While most of the hair passes through the digestive system and is excreted in feces, some hair may remain in the stomach and form a ball.

SIGNS OF HAIRBALLS IN CATS

Common signs and symptoms include:

• Hacking, gagging, and retching
• Vomiting up the hairball
• Ongoing vomiting without producing a hairball
• Lethargy and lack of appetite
• Constipation or diarrhea

If you notice your cat exhibiting these symptoms without successfully expelling a hairball, it could indicate a potentially life-threatening intestinal blockage, and you should seek veterinary attention immediately.

RISKS OF UNTREATED HAIRBALLS

While occasional hairball vomiting is relatively harmless, frequent or untreated hairballs can lead to serious complications, including:

Intestinal blockages: If a hairball passes through the stomach and becomes lodged in the intestine, it can cause a blockage, which may require hospitalization, intravenous rehydration, laxatives, or even surgery to remove.

Respiratory issues: Persistent hacking and retching could signify an underlying respiratory condition, such as asthma, which requires prompt veterinary treatment.

PREVENTING HAIRBALLS IN CATS

While the occasional hairball is normal and relatively harmless for cats, frequent hairballs can signify an underlying issue and lead to serious complications if left untreated. Fortunately, there are several proactive steps you can take to minimize formation and protect your feline friend’s health and well-being. With National Hairball Awareness Day celebrated annually on the last Friday of April, it’s a good time to review prevention tips.

By addressing the root causes, such as excessive shedding or obsessive grooming, and implementing preventive measures tailored to your cat’s needs, you can significantly reduce the risk of hairballs and the associated discomfort or potential health problems they may cause.

To reduce the risk and keep your cat healthy, consider these preventive measures:

Regular Grooming

• Brush or comb your cat daily to remove loose hair and minimize ingestion during grooming. This is especially important for long-haired breeds.
• For cats who protest daily brushing, schedule professional grooming appointments once or twice a year, especially during shedding seasons when hairballs are more likely.

As pet owners, we adore our furbabies and want to give them the best life possible. But just like us, our four-legged pals can experience allergies too!  Allergies in pets and humans are rooted in the immune system’s reaction to foreign substances. While these substances might be harmless for many, they can cause severe reactions in certain animals. When this happens, the immune system fires off its defenses by producing antibodies that interact with the antigens introduced by the allergen. This interaction sets off a chain reaction of chemical responses that ultimately lead to symptomatic allergies in pets.

SNIFFING OUT THE COMMON ALLERGIES IN PETS

You may wonder what exactly makes our pets sniffle and sneeze, itch and lick. Well, just like us, allergies in pets can be caused by things in their environment and in food. Here are some common allergens that can stir up allergy symptoms in our pets:

1. Pesky Pollen: Flowers might look pretty, but they bring pollen along, causing our pets to itch and scratch during allergy season.
2. Tiny Dust Mites: These microscopic mischief-makers lurk indoors and can wreak havoc on our pets’ sensitive noses and skin.
3. Mold’s Secret Hideout: Damp places can be breeding grounds for mold. Mold allergies are very common in both pets and humans.
4. Foodie Faux Pas: Some ingredients in commercial pet food like beef, chicken, wheat, or dairy can lead to allergies in pets.

SPOTTING PET ALLERGY SYMPTOMS

It’s important to be pet detectives and recognize the signs of allergies in pets as soon as they start. When allergies in pets are left untreated, they can quickly cause secondary infections from raw, scratched skin.  Being proactive as soon as symptoms start can help prevent unwanted consequences that require cones and antibiotics. Keep an eye out for these telltale symptoms of allergies in pets:

• The Itch Patrol: If your fur baby can’t stop scratching, gnawing at their skin, or incessantly pawing at their ears and face.
• Ear Drama: Persistent head shaking or ear infections could be signs of allergic reactions.
• Achoo Moments: Sneezing fits and runny noses can make our pets feel like they’ve caught the cold.
• Watery Eyes: Pets with allergies often have teary eyes that look red and irritated. Conjunctivitis, characterized by watery eyes or a discharge tinted in shades of yellow and green can occur when allergies are untreated.
• Tummy Troubles: Allergies might mess with their tummy, causing upset and digestive issues like vomiting, diarrhea and bloating.

HOW PET ALLERGIES ARE DIAGNOSED AND TREATED

Allergies in pets are typically diagnosed based on symptoms. If common preventatives and treatments aren’t giving your pet relief from allergies, consider consulting with a veterinarian allergist. They have specialized training to accurately treat and diagnosis allergies.  Veterinarian allergists are dermatologists who have access to in-depth allergen testing and analysis, uncovering the source of your dog’s allergies. Veterinarians typically diagnose and treat allergies in pets in the following ways: 

1. 1. Allergy Tests: Allergy tests can pinpoint the pesky culprits causing our pet’s allergies. 
   2. Prescription Medications: Vets may prescribe antihistamines, corticosteroids, or immunotherapy for relief.
   3. Special Diets: Elimination diets are a common way to determine if a certain ingredient is causing symptoms.
   4. OTC Antihistamines: These drugs are commonly used to reduce the itching, redness, and swelling associated with allergies.

HOLISTIC ALTERNATIVES FOR PET ALLERGIES

If you are certain your pet is suffering from allergic symptoms, there are some holistic options available that can help prevent and treat allergies in pets.

Quercetin is a flavonoid commonly sourced from rose hips and citrus fruits.  It can help alleviate allergy symptoms by blocking histamines that trigger reactions. Look for dog allergy supplements containing quercetin with other soothing ingredients like bromelain. 

Supplements: Daily vitamin supplements can boost your pet’s immune response to allergens, promoting overall health and potentially the reliance on prescription treatments. When you address the whole system, you help achieve a lower immune and inflammatory response. Many owners find that adding supplements specific for gastrointestinal and skin health help prevent allergies in pets.

Allergy Shampoo: Look for hypoallergenic, pH-balanced shampoos and conditioners to soothe sensitive skin and maintain hydration. While it’s best to not bathe your pet too frequently because it strips the natural protective oils on their skin and coat, a cool oatmeal and aloe bath occasionally can be soothing to irritated skin.

A HAPPY HOME FOR OUR ALLERGIC PETS 

You can make a few adjustments to your home and living routine that can provide relief and comfort for pet allergies. Regular baths and grooming can help remove allergens like pollen that fall on coats and in eyes.  If your pet is clean, your home is probably clean too. A tidy home means vacuuming and dusting regularly to kick those pesky dust mites and other allergies out of sight.  Air purifiers can work wonders by filtering out those sneeze-inducing particles. During allergy season, limiting outdoor activities can ease our pets’ discomfort, especially if grass, flea or other bug allergies are a culprit.

By understanding the signs, seeking professional help, and creating an allergy-friendly environment, we can make sure our furry friends have the best lives possible—free from sneezes and full of happiness. 

ENSURING ALLERGY MANAGEMENT IN YOUR ABSENCE

Leaving a pet with allergies in someone else’s care can be a frustrating experience. You want to ensure your pets receive the same level of care and attention as you provide, especially when it comes to managing their allergies. When seeking a pet sitter in the Dallas or Austin metro areas, it’s a good idea too look for someone who understands and can effectively manage your dog’s allergies, treatment plan and medications. Poor management of allergies can cause rapid secondary infections from excessive licking and scratching. Here’s what to consider:

EXPERIENCE

Prioritize a pet sitter with experience in caring for pets with allergies. Allergies can be unpredictable, and having someone who’s dealt with allergy-related issues before can provide peace of mind. An experienced sitter will know how to respond effectively if unexpected allergy-related situations arise, ensuring your dog’s well-being and safety.

MEDICATION HANDLING

If your dog requires medications to manage their allergies, ensure the pet sitter is comfortable and capable of administering them. Clear instructions on dosage and timings are crucial, and a responsible sitter will adhere to these guidelines diligently.

ALLERGEN AWARENESS

A knowledgeable pet sitter should be aware of potential allergens in your dog’s environment and food. They should know which substances to avoid and be cautious about introducing any new treats or foods that could trigger allergic reactions. This awareness demonstrates a genuine concern for your pet’s health and respect for you as a pet owner.

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

Allergies can unfortunately sometimes lead to emergencies, and your chosen pet sitter should be prepared. They should be able to recognize the signs of an allergic reaction and know how to respond promptly. Whether it’s having necessary medications on hand or knowing when to seek veterinary assistance, their preparedness can make all the difference.

COMMUNICATION

Open and effective communication is key to ensuring your dog’s well-being and safety while you’re away. Choose a pet sitter who is committed to keeping you informed about your dog’s condition, any changes in behavior, and any concerns that may arise. Regular updates provide reassurance and allow you to stay connected with your pet’s care.

Leaving your pet in the care of someone else can be challenging, especially when allergies are involved. At VIP Pet Service’s, our elite team of pet sitters understand and respect your pet’s specific needs. When you leave your pet’s care in our hands you can be confident that they’ll receive the attention, care, and allergy management they deserve. It’s all about finding a pet sitter who becomes an allergy-aware partner in keeping your furry friend safe, healthy, and happy in your absence. Understanding and managing allergies in pets is a crucial aspect of responsible pet ownership. By familiarizing yourself with allergy signs, identifying potential triggers, and implementing appropriate treatments, you prioritize your pet’s comfort and well-being.

With more than two decades of experience as a seasoned professional pet sitter, I’ve had the privilege of observing how an enriching indoor environment can make a significant difference in the lives of our feline friends. Playtime is undeniably one of the vital components that contribute to the overall well-being of happy cats. Not only does playtime bring joy, but it also offers numerous health benefits to our beloved feline companions. Encouraging your cats to engage in play is the key to ensuring they become and remain happy cats. To achieve this, it’s important to discover the specific type of play that resonates with each individual cat’s preferences and brings out the happy cats within them.

THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF PLAY FOR HAPPY CATS

Play is not just a frivolous activity for cats; it serves a vital role in their physical and mental health. Engaging in playtime:

1. Promotes Exercise: Like their wild ancestors, cats are natural hunters. Interactive play sessions mimic hunting behavior, providing essential exercise that keeps your cat physically fit and maintains a healthy weight.

2. Relieves Stress and Boredom: Cats, like humans, can experience stress and boredom. Play serves as an excellent outlet for pent-up energy and reduces anxiety, fostering a more content and relaxed feline friend.

3. Enhances Cognitive Abilities: Puzzle feeders and interactive toys challenge your cat’s problem-solving skills, keeping their minds sharp and stimulated.

4. Prevents Behavioral Issues: Regular play helps prevent destructive behaviors that may arise from boredom, such as scratching furniture or excessive meowing.

DISCOVERING YOUR CAT’S PLAY PREFERENCES

Every cat is a unique individual, and their play preferences may vary. Here are some tips to help you determine what type of play will make your favorite feline a happy cat:

Observe Their Behavior

Take note of your cat’s natural behaviors. Do they enjoy pouncing on toys, chasing moving objects, or stalking hidden prey? Understanding their instincts will guide you in selecting the right toys and activities.

Interactive vs. Solo Play

Some cats love interactive play with their humans, while others prefer playing alone. Experiment with both options to see which your cat responds to more positively.

Texture and Sound Preferences

Cats have different preferences when it comes to toy textures and sounds. Some enjoy the crinkling sound of paper, while others are drawn to soft feathered toys. Offer a variety of toys to see what captures their interest.

TAILORING PLAYTIME TO YOUR CAT’S PERSONALITY

Once you’ve determined your cat’s play preferences, it’s time to tailor playtime to their personality. Here are some ideas:

1. The Hunter’s Playtime: If your cat loves the thrill of the hunt, interactive toys like wand teasers and laser pointers will be a hit. Mimic the movements of prey to engage their hunting instincts fully.

2. The Puzzler’s Delight: For cats that enjoy a mental challenge, puzzle feeders and treat-dispensing toys are excellent choices. These will keep them engaged as they work to retrieve their rewards.

3. The Tree Climber’s Haven: If your cat loves to climb, invest in a sturdy cat tree with various levels and hiding spots. This will satisfy their desire for vertical space and provide a perfect vantage point to observe their kingdom.

THE IMPORTANCE OF A PLAYTIME ROUTINE

Consistency is the cornerstone when it comes to your cat’s playtime routine. By setting aside dedicated play sessions each day, you can ensure that your feline friend remains mentally and physically stimulated. Regular play not only helps alleviate boredom but also provides essential exercise for your cat, promoting a healthier lifestyle.

HOW TO CREATE ENGAGING PLAY FOR YOUR CATS

Breaking playtime into several short yet engaging sessions can prove to be more effective than a single lengthy play session. Happy cats tend to have short attention spans, and shorter bursts of play can keep them fully engaged and excited. These interactive play sessions also mimic the hunting behavior that comes naturally to cats, allowing them to indulge their instincts and release pent-up energy, which ultimately leads to happy cats.

Incorporating playtime into your daily schedule helps create a strong bond between you and your cat. Your active participation in these play sessions reinforces the idea that you are a trusted companion, and your cat will look forward to spending quality time with you each day, resulting in happier cats. So, whether it’s using toys, laser pointers, or interactive games, regular and consistent playtime will undoubtedly contribute to your cat’s overall happiness and well-being, ensuring that you have a house full of happy cats.

SAFETY FIRST

While play undeniably plays a crucial role in promoting your cat’s well-being, it’s vital to always prioritize safety to ensure their happiness and health. 

HOW TO SELECT SAFE TOYS FOR CATS

When selecting toys for your feline friend, be cautious about choosing small or easily ingestible items. Cats are naturally curious creatures, and they may be tempted to chew or swallow small objects, which can lead to serious health issues or choking hazards. Look for toys specifically designed for cats that are durable and free from any small, detachable parts.

ALWAYS SUPERVISE PLAY

Supervising interactive play sessions is another essential aspect of ensuring your cat’s safety. While engaging in play with your pet is enjoyable and strengthens your bond, it’s crucial to be aware of any potential risks. Keep an eye on your cat’s behavior and reactions during playtime. If you notice any signs of aggression or frustration, it might be best to change the activity or take a short break. Similarly, if a toy shows signs of wear and tear or damage, remove it from the play area to avoid any harm to your cat.

CAT TOY HAZARDS TO WATCH OUT FOR

Be cautious with toys that involve strings, ribbons, or cords, as these can pose entanglement hazards if left unattended. After each play session, ensure that all toys are safely stored away and out of your cat’s reach to prevent any accidental ingestion or mishaps.

Creating a safe play environment for your cat not only prevents potential hazards but also allows them to fully enjoy their playtime without unnecessary risks. By exercising caution and being attentive during interactive play, you can provide your feline companion with a fun and secure experience that contributes to their overall well-being and happiness.

HAPPY CATS, HAPPY HOME

Creating an enriching indoor environment for your cats is a labor of love that brings immeasurable joy to both you and your feline companions. By understanding the health benefits of play for happy cats and discovering their play preferences, you’ll create a personalized and fulfilling playtime experience. So, let the games begin, and watch your cat thrive in their delightful indoor playground!

If you’re ever away and need a caring professional cat sitter in the Dallas and Austin Metropolitan areas, reach out to us for professional cat sitting services. We’re dedicated to providing the love, attention, and enriching playtime your happy cats deserve, ensuring they stay purr-fectly content even in your absence. Contact us today to learn more about how we can make a difference in your cat’s life!

Here are some handy pet health tips to help you along your pet-loving journey!

Keep them a healthy weight.

We know; we hate diets too. However, an overweight pet can have a reduced life expectancy of up to two years! There are also a number of risks associated with an overweight pet, like diabetes, high blood pressure, respiratory disease, risk of injury to bones and muscles – you get the picture!

If your pet has arthritis, keeping them a healthy, happy weight will also help keep their joints in check and have less pressure on them. 

Keeping your pet trim will give them the best chance of a healthier, happier, and a (hopefully) pain-free life!

Exercise!

Walking is a great, healthy activity for both you and your dog. However, it’s more than just a physical activity for them; it also serves as mental stimulation! The sights, sounds, and smells all stimulate your dogs’ mind! A bonus – walking will help preserve your pet’s muscle tone and joint movement. If your dog needs to lose weight, then walking should help them shed a few of those extra pounds!

Give them a balanced diet.

A nutritious, balanced diet is essential for your pets’ health. Pets need foods with nutritional value – with all the water, proteins, fats, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins essential to a pet’s diet. Our advice would be to feed your pet the highest quality pet food that you can afford! Why not have a look at The VIP Pet Shop to find the highest quality pet food around!

Go to the vet.

It is impossible to underestimate the importance of regular vet appointments for your pet. In the same way that we go to the dentists and doctors for check-ups, the vet will ensure that all is well with your pet’s general wellbeing. As the saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure! From routine deworming to vaccinations and more, your vet will be able to keep your pet healthy and safe! 

Spay or neuter your pet

Every year, millions of cats and dogs are euthanized. The decision to spay or neuter your pet helps make that number go down. Spaying or neutering your pet also helps calm mating instincts and behaviors. In female pets, spaying prevents serious health issues such as urinary tract infections and breast cancer later in life.

 It’s best to talk with your vet about the best options, time, and logistics for spaying or neutering your pet. 

Obviously, as pet owners, we want to keep our pets fit and healthy. Hopefully, these little bits of pet health information will encourage you to get outside with your dog or take your pet to the vet for that all-important check-up. You’re doing the best you can, and we at VIP Pets so appreciate you!

But what about cats? 

According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, 33.8% of house cats struggle with obesity.

While cats can learn to walk on a leash, this is a dangerous form of exercise. If an off-leash dog were to see your cat and get a bit too excited, who is going to stop them from getting in harm’s way? You. And that’s dangerous. 

So we at VIP Pets thought it would be great to come up with some nifty ways to keep your cat in shape. From cat towers to agility courses, there are lots of ways to keep Fluffy from living up to her name.

Cat Towers

Cat Towers are an excellent way to ensure that your cat will have plenty of places to play and climb for a good workout. Try putting healthy, low-calorie treats in different areas to encourage play, and they will stay busy for hours!

Lasers

We have all seen those videos of a cat transfixed by a laser, and chances are, your cat will be no different. It’s a GREAT way to exercise your cat with minimal effort – simply sit back, flick the laser at a wall, and enjoy!

Pair up!

Do you have just the one cat? Maybe try two! They will enjoy each other’s company and spend a LOT of time chasing each other around and playfighting, right from when they are kittens, all the way up to grown cats! It’s an effective way to ensure that your cat is getting both physical exercise and social interaction. 

Stock up on cat toys.

Cats are such curious creatures. They love to play. Get them some toys, like a ball with a bell or a toy mouse, and you’ll be surprised at how long they can continue the chase! It’s great fun for them and gives them the exercise they need.

Build an agility course!

This is the ULTIMATE way to provide some fun and games for your cat. Cats are incredibly agile, so create some fun ways to get his brain and body moving! Use several obstacles that your cat has to get through, or jump over, to push them mentally and physically. They will love you for it. 

We hope this has given you some fun ideas for exercising your cat! Remember, while they do sleep a LOT, cats still need exercise! So get creative, and have fun!

• Purchase eco-friendly pet products. Nowadays, there are plenty of eco-friendly food products, shampoos, biodegradable kitty litter and other biodegradable and recycled products. Try to also avoid plastic when possible and use eco-friendly products. Did you know the VIP Pet Services store stocks some wonderful, environmentally-friendly products? Check out the flea and tick control, yard spray and specialty shampoos.

• Consider composting your pet’s waste. Did you know pet waste can be particularly hazardous pollutants? There are many ways your pet’s waste compost can be highly efficient. Just be sure not to use it for plants or produce meant for human consumption.

• Purchase eco-friendly pet toys. There are many options, especially for cats, that are dye-free, recycled or upcycled, and even made out of organic materials. Consider also donating old toys instead of just throwing them away.

• Upcycle pet food bags. Unfortunately, pet food bags are not recyclable, but there are ways you can upcycle them. Wash them up and use them to store paint brushes, or turn them into other useful household items.

• Use biodegradable or flushable poop bags. Most of us are good about picking up after dogs, but how do we do that without using so much plastic? Thankfully, there are now biodegradable pick-up bags and also flushable ones.

• Donate toys and other goods. Donate unused or almost new toys and other items such as blankets, bowls, or beds to shelters or others who don’t mind hand me downs.

• Spay or neuter your pet. By not spaying or neutering your pets, you contribute to the already millions of stray pets that roam around or wind up in shelters. Sadly, many of these pets are euthanized. Reducing the number of homeless animals conserves important resources, such as food and energy. Some strays also become feral and they can be harmful to many other animals. 

• Adopt a pet. One of the best ways to be an eco-friendly pet owner is to adopt. There are millions of homeless pets in shelters who need a home, and those who are not adopted are often euthanized. This also helps the overpopulation of many shelters.

Imagine the positive environmental impact you and your pets could have by adopting some, if not all, of these eco-friendly habits. We at VIP Pet Services hope you’ll consider taking these steps to help improve our environment.

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Your Cat Is Trying To Tell You They’re Hungry or Want Something.

Not all cats, but there are many cats that will start purring around meal time. However, this is a specific type of purr. It is more of a purr mixed with a mew that can sound more like a baby cry and your cat may do this because they are aware that this type of purr gets more attention than a normal one. When they aren’t hungry, but just want something like your attention, they will purr but it won’t sound the same as when they are yearning for a meal.

Your Cat May Be Happy

If your cat is happy and in a good mood, then that is always a good thing! A sign when this is the case, is when they are purring. Although most of your cats purrs will sound the same, you can tell that they are happy if they are purring and very relaxed or on their backs with their eyes halfway closed. Cats don’t smile, but if they could, this would be their way of doing so.

Your Cat May Be Trying To Heal Itself

DId you know that when your cat purrs, it sends vibrations through their body that can help them heal certain health issues? This is a fact and has been verified by scientists as well as veterinarians. These vibrations can lessen any pain and swelling that they may be experiencing, heal any fractured or broken bones and wounds, ease their breathing, and build and repair any torn muscles or tendons. Research actually shows that many cats get better, faster when they do consistent purring.

Could this be the reason as to why most cats can survive things such as falls from high places? It could be. Little did you know that your cat has their own healing and pain relieving mechanism and similar to a child sucks their thumb so that they can feel better, a cat will purr if anything is wrong to return to their normal state.

Conclusion: Why Do Cats Purr?

These are a few, great answers to the question “why do cats purr?” The best thing to do, which you should already be doing anyways, is to simply notice your cat’s behavior when they are purring and really pay attention to what you do on your end to make it cease. This way, you and your cat can communicate with each other much better and you can have a deeper relationship and understanding with them as well.

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For the most part, you may think that you have everything down pat based on what you’ve observed from any other cat owners that you know. However, it is still a good idea to go over the basics of cat ownership, because you’d be surprised at just how often they tend to be overlooked. With that being said, here is everything you need to know when you make the decision to become a first time cat owner.

Parasite Control

While most cat owners typically see the surface and are focused on the fleas, ticks and other pests that could latch on to the fur and skin of our cats, they tend to overlook and forget to control the critters inside and those are the parasites. You want to make sure your cat is healthy and free of parasites on a consistent basis and this includes the roundworms, hookworms, ticks, tapeworms, mites, and even heartworms which can cause diseases and other detrimental effects to your cat.

Even worse, they can even spread to you because these are creatures that need hosts and if they believe that your body fits their environment, your cat could transmit them to you. It is pretty scary when you think about it and we aren’t trying to scare you. We are only trying to call your attention to it, because it is important information that you must know as a first time cat owner.

Buying Cheap Food

If you make the mistake of buying cheap food for your cat, then it will come back on you in the form of a much more costly consequence that may result in an illness or even the death of your cat. Invest in your cat and make sure that you are budgeting enough money to buy them only the highest quality of food for them to consume. Also, it would be a great idea for you to check the label to look at the ingredients. A couple things that are very helpful to look for are any animal by-products and if that particular food item is approved by the AFFCO. They ensure you that a cat food or brand will get their stamp of approval if it meets industry standards.

Ignoring Illnesses and Injuries

When your cat becomes ill or suffers from any injuries, then you need to alter your schedule to make them a priority and take them to the vet for a check up. When illnesses and injuries are ignored, they could snowball into potentially life-threatening and fatal conditions if you don’t act fast enough. Minor things can be monitored or even removed with home remedies, but if it is something that you feel is out of your control, then you need to seek attention from your veterinarian as soon as possible.

Conclusion: First Time Cat Owner? Here’s Everything You Need To Know

These are the most important things that you need to know if you are a first time cat owner. Do yourself, and most of all, your cat a great service and act quickly if there are ever any problems that may arise. Make sure you take great care of it. Give it love, quality food and regular checkups at your vet and surely they will live a long, happy and healthy life.

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They understand that this is for a certain time and while they may not be aware of the story of the boy who cried wolf, they don’t overuse it. Think of it as dialing 911. You only dial 911 in a very, specific situation. Technically, when you feel threatened or are in danger and need help. This is how your cat looks at hissing, but there is a twist and with that, let’s discuss a bit more about why a cat will hiss.

First and Foremost, Hissing Is A Warning

Whenever cats feel threatened, they will often hiss at whoever they may feel threatened by. Regardless if it is a human or another animal. It is to serve as a warning sign, because cats don’t want to engage in physical confrontations. If you approach a cat the wrong way, or if a dog is near, they my hiss to send a message to stop doing whatever may be bothering them, or to keep a distance.

What To Do About Repeated Hissing

If your cat hisses every time you pick her up, then it would be a good idea for you to take her in to your veterinarian for a check up as soon as possible. They could be trying to tell you that they are in pain, and when you grab them a certain way, you could be hurting them. So, be careful how you pickup your cat if they happen to be hissing repeatedly, because if you cause them too much pain, they could attack you and this is normally in the form of a scratch or digging their claws into your skin.

Conclusion: Is Your Cat Hissing? Here’s What It Could Mean

Primarily, these are the the causes of your cat hissing and what it could mean. Usually it serves for specific situations, mostly when they feel threatened, but it could also be their way of trying to get your attention and your help to solve a problem that they may have. The best thing in this situation is to observe your cat’s behavior and find out what could be causing the cat hissing, and what puts an end to it. As a result, if you are able to effectively pick up on these signals that they are sending out, this will allow you to establish a deeper connection with your cat and to be able to communicate with them much more easily.

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