Tips to Keep Your Cat from Scratching Your Furniture

You're not alone if your cat’s scratching is ruining your furniture! In this post, we’ll explore simple and practical solutions to protect your home while keeping your feline friend happy.

Keep the Environment Stimulating 

Cats scratch to release energy. Interactive toys, perches, climbing spots, and hiding places will mentally and physically stimulate your cat and reduce the likelihood of scratching furniture out of boredom. 

Trim Your Cat’s Claws Regularly 

While this does not eliminate the behavior, regularly trimming your cat’s claws reduces the damage they may cause.

Cover Furniture with Protective Materials 

Use protective furniture covers on common scratching spots, such as the corners of sofas, to reduce the wear and tear on your furniture. Cats dislike sticky surfaces, so double-sided tape may be applied as a furniture asset to keep them away. 

Offer Scratching Materials 

Redirect your cat to scratching materials such as scratching posts or a cat tree to avoid scratching on furniture.    

Feliway Diffusers 

Feliway is a product that mimics feline pheromones and can calm your cat. A calm environment and a Feliway scent plug nearby may reduce your cat's urge to scratch furniture by helping it feel more comfortable. 

Refer to our post about Cat Scratchers and When to Replace Them, to find out more about the timeline of some scratchers! 

A Guide To Verbal Cat Communication

Welcome to the purr-fect world of feline linguistics! Cats boast an impressive vocabulary of up to 21 distinct vocalizations, each a note in the symphony of cat communication. It's not just meows and purrs; it's a real language that can be as complex as a human conversation.

Not all cats are born chatterboxes. Some, like the Maine Coons, tend to be part of the quieter breeds, while others, like the Siamese, are the talkative kitties of the feline universe.

Meowing: The signature soundtrack of feline communication! Kittens use it to summon their moms, but in adulthood, it becomes the cat's go-to language for humans. From greetings to playtime requests, expressions of excitement or frustration, to demanding attention, food, or room access – meows are the most popular of the cat communication world.

Purring: In the world of feline communication, there's one sound that reigns supreme – the purr! This sound is typically an indicator that your kitty is in a state of bliss—think lounging in a warm sunbeam or receiving chin scratches while sitting on their human’s lap. Interestingly, cats purr at a frequency between 25-150 Hertz, known to have therapeutic effects on bones and tissues. Beyond contentment, they may purr to self-heal, reduce stress, and even communicate with humans. The unique purring sound originates from the cat's laryngeal muscles rapidly contracting and relaxing.

Trilling: A trill is a high-pitched musical sound made by some cats during specific situations. Cats reserve this delightful sound for greetings and thanking their human admirers, often for treats or affection. They may also use this when communicating to their favorite feline sibling. It's the cat's way of saying, "You're my favorite."

Chirping: Initially, chirping is a mother cat's call to her kittens, adult cats also use chirps to grab attention and share their whereabouts. When faced with tantalizing prey outside the window, a chirp signifies excitement, tinged with a dash of frustration.

Chattering: Have you ever caught your cat silently chattering away? It's not Morse code; it's their voiceless jaw clash, usually reserved for spotting prey out of reach. It's the rhythm of their imaginary hunt.

Growling and Hissing: Growling is a low rumble signaling threats and impending feline fury. Hissing, its dramatic cousin, is the involuntary response to a surprise threat. Both come with a side of fear-inducing body language – arched back, flattened ears, twitching tail, and the classic Halloween cat posture. When the growls and hisses start, heed the cat's message: "Step back, I'm not in the mood!"

Spitting: More intense than a hiss, this explosive burst signals a peak threat situation. It's the cat's way of saying, "Seriously, back off!" – accompanied by a swift, lashing-out movement for added drama.

Yowling and Howling: Imagine a cat's meow on steroids, and you've got yowling – a prolonged, distressed sound. Howling is its shorter cousin. These are the sirens of cat communication, indicating physical or emotional distress. Separation anxiety, pain, or just a need for attention – it's their way of belting out their feelings.

Caterwauling: A loud, long whine reserved for unspayed females in heat. Directed at human family members, it's their expression of pain, discomfort, fear, or a blatant demand for attention.

In this enchanting world of feline sounds, any change in frequency, intensity, duration, or pitch is your cat's SOS. A trip to the vet might be in order, and for some, a dash of anxiety or pain meds could be the magical remedy. So, listen closely, fellow cat enthusiasts, for in their symphony of sounds, your furball's story unfolds, one delightful meow at a time!

References

Modern Cat

PetMD

Smithsonian Magizine

Why Do Cats Always Land On Their Feet?

Cats possess an incredible ability that has captured human attention for generations: the skill to land on their feet. What’s the science behind this captivating cat superpower? It comes down to a combination of biomechanics, reflexes, and physics. Cats are known for their exceptional agility, and their bodies are designed to facilitate the impressive acrobatics.

Flexible Spine: Cats boast a spine that's much more flexible than that of many other animals. The spine's extraordinary mobility, particularly in the thoracic region, allows cats to twist their bodies with remarkable ease. As a cat begins to fall, its body initiates a twisting motion that sets the stage for a controlled descent.

Vestibular System: Cats possess an intricate inner ear system, known as the vestibular system, which grants them an impeccable sense of balance. This finely-tuned system allows them to gauge their orientation relative to gravity, ensuring they maintain equilibrium even during a fall.

Reflexes and Rotation: Their ability to rotate their front and back halves independently adds an extra layer of finesse to their descent strategy. By manipulating their body's orientation, cats can align their feet underneath them, setting the stage for a graceful landing.

Visual Focus: Cats have a unique ability to maintain visual focus on a specific target. This skill aids them in determining their position in relation to their surroundings. As they plummet, their keen eyesight allows them to calculate the best landing.

Built-in Safety Feature: Ever notice how a cat's body opens up like a parachute during a fall? This instinctive response isn't just for show. By spreading their limbs out, cats increase air resistance, effectively slowing down their fall. This additional time allows them to adjust their position mid-air, enhancing their chances of landing safely.

The next time you watch your feline friend navigate their environment with unparalleled elegance, remember that their astonishing acrobatics are the result of an intricate interplay of biology, physics, and evolution.

REFERENCES:
Scientific American
A-Z Animals

11 Holiday Safety Tips For Your Pet

As the holiday season approaches, our homes transform into bustling hubs of celebration. Among the twinkling lights and festive feasts, it's essential to remember the well-being of our beloved pets. While they eagerly partake in the holiday excitement, their safety must remain a priority.

Mind the Decorations: Holiday decorations can be fascinating to our pets but can also be dangerous. Keep a close eye on tinsel, ribbon, and small ornaments that could be choking hazards. Opt for pet-friendly decorations and secure larger ones out of your pet's reach.

Create a Calm Retreat: Holiday gatherings can be overwhelming for pets with all the noise and commotion. Designate a quiet, safe space where your furry friend can retreat when they need a break. Provide comfortable bedding, water, and their favorite comfort items to make it an inviting, relaxing place.

Watch the Door: Holiday gatherings mean more people coming and going from your home. Keep an eye on your pets near the door, as they may try to slip outside, especially if they're anxious or curious about the guests.

Secure the Trash: The aroma of holiday leftovers can be irresistible to pets. Ensure trash cans are securely closed or kept in a pet-proof area to prevent scavenging, which can lead to digestive issues.

Pet-Proof Your Feast: Be cautious about what your pets consume while indulging in holiday feasts. Many human foods, such as chocolate, grapes, onions, and alcohol, can be toxic to pets. A trigger for pancreatitis in our furry friends often stems from the consumption of high-fat foods. During holiday seasons, this can include indulgences such as turkey (especially the skin), fatty leftovers, gravy, bacon, and dishes with butter. Keep festive foods out of their reach and discourage guests from feeding them table scraps. Never give your pet cooked bones. Bones can splinter into shards that injure your pet's mouth and digestive tract. They can also harden in their intestines, causing a blockage.

Be Cautious with Candles: If you're using candles for ambiance, place them out of your pet's reach. Curious pets can knock them over and cause fires or burns. Consider using flameless, battery-operated candles as a safer alternative.

Limit Access to Electrical Cords: Holiday lights and decorations often come with electrical cords that can attract pets. Use cord covers or secure them in a way that keeps your pets from chewing on them, which can lead to electrical shock.

Avoid Harmful Plants: Certain holiday plants, like poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly, can be toxic to pets if ingested. Keep them away, or consider using artificial alternatives to keep your pets safe and your home festive. Curious about which other plants are harmful to your pets? Click here to find out!

Introduce Your Pet to New Faces: If you're hosting guests, especially those with children or other pets, ensure proper introductions with your own pets. Some pets may be anxious around unfamiliar faces, so a gradual introduction can help ease tension. Remind guests, especially children, how to properly interact with your pet to avoid potential anxiety in your pet that may result in a reactive bite or scratch. If your pet isn't fond of company, escort them to their safe space and check on them during the event.

On The Road Again: If the holiday takes you on a road trip, make sure your pet is wearing proper identification, a harness that is secured to a tether or doggy seat belt (do not attach any restraint directly to their collar), or place them in their crate (secured to the vehicle in the event of an accident). Bring food/treats, bowls, water, leash, potty supplies, blanket, medication, first-aid kit, toys, and vet documents. Create a list of emergency vets along your route in case of emergency or illness.

Exercise Your Pal: Be mindful of your pet's need for proper exercise during the busy season. Create a schedule that allows time to care for your pet, or call your local pet-sitting company for assistance!

Resources
VETSS

How To Dog Proof Your Home While You're Away

Whether your dog is a puppy, a newly adopted pup, or a dog that’s been part of the family for years, be sure to add, “dog proof the house” to your to-do list before you’re off on your next vacation. Doing so can save you money on household damages or even more importantly, a trip to the vet when you buddy “got into something.

No worries, we’ve got you covered:

Sweet pup anxiously awaiting his treat from his Glad Wags’ sitter.

Nom-noms: Stash away all food, including their own, so they aren’t tempted to counter-surf. Pay close attention to hiding away toxic foods such as chocolate, avocados, grapes, raisins, macadamia nuts, onions, and garlic. For a more complete list of toxic foods, visit the ASPCA website by clicking here .

PRO TIP: If you are the parent to an expert counter-surfer, consider putting foil on your countertops. Once Buddy places his paws on the loud material he will be less inclined to continue. You might also try lining your countertop with double-stick tape. Pups don’t like the sticky tape and are likely to stay away.

Get to the point: Securely put away anything sharp that your little rascal may snatch up such as knives, scissors, razors, blades from a blender or food processor, box cutters, and pins.

Sweat the small stuff: Twist ties, bread clips, rubber bands, batteries, buttons, hair-ties, jewelry, thread, crafts, or anything tiny can be enticing to a doggo who is left unattended. Although these things seem harmless, they can get lodged in your pup’s throat or digestive tract.

Lakewood Ranch is full of beauty, even on the side of a neighbor’s recycling bin!

A load of rubbish: Secure your trash cans! Take the trash out before you leave or figure out a way to keep Buddy’s nose out of the trash’s business. Some common solutions are putting it in a pantry/cabinet or placing a gate around it.

PRO TIP: Don’t forget about the small trash bins in bathrooms and offices; these can be even more dangerous because they don’t often have a lid and can contain dangerous items such as floss or old razors!

Down to the wire: Cords, wires, and chargers are popular items for pups to chew on and can be very dangerous as they can electrocute and burn your fur-friend. If possible, unplug any devices that your pup will have access to. Consider tucking the cords under cord concealers or completely removing the items from the room. It may be a time consuming task but this is a very important one!

PRO TIP: If you think your pup will mess with the outlets, try using outlet covers.

Comfy cozy: Pups can look at blankets, rugs, and fabric armrest coverings as big toys. If you think Buddy will go after the couch cushions and pillows, block off couches with dining chairs or limit their access to rooms with these pieces.

Dapper boy is always stylin’ in one of his bow-ties!

Best dressed: Depending on what type of packer you are, you might leave your clothes spread out on the floor or leave behind a pile of dirty laundry in your hamper. We won’t add “do laundry” to your to-do-list but at least put all your clothing out of reach from your pup, particularly dirty laundry. They enjoy working on (aka chewing on) buttons, strings, and zippers, stinky socks, and the all-time favorite….shoes! Save your clothes, shoes, and your dog’s intestines and stow these types of things far from reach.

Pick your poison: Our homes are filled with toxic hazards such as cleaners, detergents, bleach, moth balls, pesticides, medications, cosmetics, perfumes, and toiletries. Keep these types of items far, far away from your solo pup. Put them in a closet they do not have access to or a high cabinet that has some type of lock on it. Check out these child-proof cabinet locks that can also be used for nosey noses snooping around.

Fast friends: If you have small critters in the house, such as fish or hamsters, think about moving them to a new location if you aren’t sure how your pup might do alone with them.

Having a snooze after her outside time.

Beauty sleep: Some owners like leaving their bedroom open for access during their time away because Buddy likes having a snooze on their bed. Some canines love to tear up anything soft (uh, have you seen what they can do to a stuffie toy) so not granting them access to your bedroom would be ideal. But, if you are still adamant about having them keep your bunk warm, remove your pillows, quilts, comforters, sheets to spare them from becoming the next casualty!

Potty mouth: Shut your toilet lids! Although your pup doesn't care about manners, the latrine lid should stay closed. The chemicals used to clean the toilet can make a thirsty pup very sick. Tiny pups could even drown in the bowl! If your headstrong bud knows how to lift the seat, try one of these nifty devices.

PRO TIP: As gross as it is, Buddy might raid the cat’s litter box. If this is on your dog’s favorite foods list, find a home for the box that Buddy can’t get to.

Blind spot: Vertical blinds, particularly ones made of fabric, sway side to side and can become quite a tempting toy! Block these strips with chairs if possible.

Playtime with one of his favorite toys!

Toy story: Leaving Buddy’s toys out is very important but if your pup is likely to rip up their toys (which is fine) first remove any squeakers, strings, and stuffing, if you believe your pup will consume it after it’s ripped up.

Reality TV: Hide your remotes!! You’ll thank us.

Pretty as a picture: Figurines, vases, and any decor that is within reach (even as high as your dog can reach on his hind legs) should find a new home while you’re away.

Arts & crafts: Have you ever seen what a pup can do with newspapers, magazines, books, cash money, paper towels, napkins, or toilet paper? They can create homemade confetti in seconds flat! Double check that you put away all these tempting paper products.

Fresh Air: Air fresheners & candles are a big “no-no” for pets when home alone. Your pup is more important than a nice smelling house.

Handsome Havanese posing during a Glad Wags’ walk.

Green thumb: Many pet owners are the parents to indoor house plants too but you will be disappointed to find your plants dug up and even consumed. Move these plants to an off-limits room, even succulents are fair game to Buddy! Non-toxic plants can still cause lesions in the digestive tract. For a full list of toxic plants, check out our Toxic Plants and Flowers To Avoid For Dogs And Cats blog.

Off limits: If doggie proofing your home is still not enough to save your stuff, try limiting the space in which your dog is allowed to roam. Close doors and only allow access to the main living area. If you need to limit space even further, put your pup in a large penned area of the house.

PRO TIP: Remember that a tired dog is a good dog so be sure to use a sitter who can tire your dog out physically and mentally.

Toxic Plants and Flowers To Avoid For Dogs And Cats

As a pet parent, it’s very important to be knowledgeable about which plants and flowers could be dangerous to your puppy pals and feline friends. Below is a list of the most common toxic plants that are dangerous for pets to consume.

Please note, this is not a complete list of all poisonous plants.

Adam-and-Eve
Aloe
Amaryllis
Andromeda
Apple 
Apricot
Arrow-Head Vine
Arum
Arum Lily
Australian Nut
Autumn Crocus
Azalea
Barbados
Basil
Bay Laurel
Bead Tree
Begonia
Bird of Paradise
Bittersweets
Brazilwood
Boxwood
Brunfelsia
Buckeye
Buckwheat
Buddhist Pine
Burning Bush
Buttercup
Calla Lily
Caladium
Cape Jasmine
Cardinal Flower
Carnation
Castor Bean
Ceriman
Chamomile
Cherry
Chinaberry
Chives
Chrysanthemum
Cilantro
Clematis

Coffee
Coontie Palm
Creeping Charlie
Cycads
Cyclamen
Daffodil
Daisy
Dieffenbachia
Dracaena
Dumbcane
Easter Rose
Eastern Star
Elephant Ears
Epazote
Eucalyptus
Exotica
Fern Palm
Fig
Figwort
Flag
Flamingo Flower
Foxglove
Gardenia
Garlic
Geranium
Gladiola
Grapefruit
Heavenly Bamboo
Holly
Hops
Horse Chestnut
Horseweed
Hosta
Hyacinth
Hydrangea
Indian Hemp
Iris
Ivy
Jack-in-the-Pulpit

Jonquil
Kalanchoe
Kiss-me-Quick
Klamath Weed
Lambkill
Lantana
Larkspur
Laurels
Lavender
Leek
Lemon
Lemon Grass
Lenten Rose
Lillies
Lime
Lobelia
Maidens Breath
Marijuana
Milkweed
Mint
Mistletoe
Morning Glory
Mother-in-Law
Mum
Nandina
Narcissus
Nightshade
Oleander
Onion
Orange
Oregano
Parsley
Peach
Peony
Perennial Pea
Periwinkle
Pieris
Plum
Poinsettia
Poison Daisy
Poison Hemlock

Poison Parsnip
Portulaca
Prayer Bean
Primrose
Privet
Purslane
Ragwort
Ranger's Button
Red Emerald
Red Maple
Rhododendron
Rhubarb
Ribbon Plant
Rock Moss
Rosebay
Running Myrtle
Sabi Star
Sago Palm
Silver Dollar
Snake Lily
Sorrel
SowBread
Spanish Thyme
Spindle Tree
Spring Parsley
Staggerbush
Starch Root
Starleaf
Sweet Pea
Taro
Tobacco
Tomato
Tulip
Weeping Fig
White Heads
Wild Arum
Winterberry
Wisteria
Yarrow
Yew
Yucca

ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Phone Number: 888-426-4435

The Best Pet Care In The Industry

Company Employee - Independent Contractor
Solo Sitter - App Sitter - Boarding Facility

Choosing the appropriate care for your pet is essential and can become a stressful undertaking once you start reviewing all of the options available. It’s a given that the pet sitter you choose should possess a love for animals, but there are many other important considerations when hiring a pet sitter.

PROFESSIONAL IN-HOME PET CARE BUSINESS (that hires “employees”) - The Gold Standard

Professional pet care businesses, like Glad Wags, are owned and operated by a certified professional pet sitter through Pet Sitter’s International (PSI). PSI is the world’s largest and most respected authority on pet sitting and the leading association for professional pet sitters. They provide their members with the most up-to-date, on-going education and resources. This knowledge translates to exceptional, 5-star care for your pet. Benefits to hiring a professional pet care business, include:

• The ability to leave your pet in the comfort of their own home without interrupting their routine, and where they feel safest.

• In-home care means that your pet is not exposed to potential viruses often found in boarding facilities, such as kennel cough or influenza, nor the possibility of injuries associated with a group setting while boarding.

• This type of premium care also includes one-on-one companionship for your pet and the ability to tend to their unique needs, such as administering medications or preparing their special meal.

• A pet sitting company’s team of sitters are insured, bonded, background-checked, trained by field management staff, and accountable to the company for each visit provided.

• A team of sitters allows for pet care 365-days a year. If one sitter is on vacation, or ill, or has a personal emergency, other sitters on the team who know and love your pet are able to continue care without interruption. Back-ups are key in finding reliable pet care; something a solo sitter cannot provide.

• Long-term relationships are built between the company’s owner, sitters, the client, and their pet that are built on communication, accessibility, reliability, and trust.

• Pet owners will enjoy the convenience and efficiency of sophisticated technology that enables online scheduling, payments by credit card, text-like communication feeds, real-time visit reports with engaging, quality photos through a pet sitting software program and mobile app.

• While you’re away, your home will never appear that you’re not home. We will collect mail/packages/newspapers, maintain trash, water plants, rotate lights, and keep your home secure.

EMPLOYEE -VS- INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR

Hire a company with employees versus independent contractors. There is a major difference between companies that hire employees as pet sitters versus independent contractors as pet sitters. Namely, a business with employees is able to control the way their sitters perform their job, meaning the type of care they provide.

EMPLOYEES

Glad Wags hires employees only. We work closely together as a team when caring for all of our clients’ pets.

Lead sitter, Amanda, taking a play break with a wild pup.

• We provide Workers Compensation to our employees in case of an injury on the job. This type of insurance cannot be provided to independent contractors, the contractor may elect to obtain it themselves, but most do not.

• We contribute to social security, medicare, and unemployment.

• We carry liability insurance and bonding.

• We manage, train, coach, and mentor our employees for consistency of care. By law, this type of guidance cannot be provided to or required of independent contractors as they are essentially a hired 3rd party company.

• Glad Wags field management is always available to our employee team for back up and emergency care should it be needed.

• Pet sitting companies with employees show integrity. By law, a pet sitting company that contracts their pet sitting services is illegally misclassifying their workers as independent contractors when in fact they should be classified as employees, and the company is then required to contribute to social security, medicare, and unemployment taxes.

INDEPENDENT CONTRACTORS

An independent contractor hired by a pet sitting company essentially has their own pet care business. They are then hired to care for a pet sitting company’s clientele. Why is this an issue?:

Glad Wags sitter, Ann, giving love to a puppy client.

• According to the IRS classification of independent contractors, they are not legally allowed to be trained or managed by a company hiring them. They can establish their own “standard”.

• They are not required, by law, to follow the pet sitting company’s policies and procedures and are legally free to care for your pet however they please and whenever they please.

• Contractors have little supervision and cannot be told how to handle your pet. They are not required to report to a visit at a certain time and can shorten or change visits that you have requested. They can even subcontract the visits and send another person into your house without notifying you or the company you hired!

BOARDING AT A KENNEL

When a pet owner considers going out of town, boarding at a kennel is a popular option they consider. At a kennel, pets are fed and housed (crated), looked after in a facility by various staff members that your pet does not know. Potential issues that arise from this type of care, include:

Parrot client calm and happy in his cozy home.

• Various required vaccinations in order to stay at the facility. In-home care eliminates this requirement, owners can choose to vaccinate as they choose.

• Even with vaccinations, an increased possibility that viruses and bacteria, such as kennel cough and influenza, may be transmitted to your pet.

• There is an increased possibility that your pet will experience an injury due to exposure to many other dogs with free rein in an enclosed space with little supervision. Depending on the facility, there could be as many as 80-100 dogs with free rein on any given day, particularly during the holidays.

• Increased anxiety for your pet is likely, and the possibility of a lifelong fear of other dogs is also possible due to exposure to so many dogs day after day. This is a particularly unpleasant environment for puppies and senior dogs.

• The stress of a pet being away from their family, home, and daily routine often has a lasting effect.

• Pet owners will be charged for “additional services” such as medication administration, a solo walk, late pick-up, and much more. In most facilities, you will even have to pay extra to have your dog petted.

• Owners have the burden of transporting their pet and their supplies to and from the facility and are tied to the facility’s drop-off and pick-up times, as opposed to having their calm pet waiting for them at home when they return.

HOBBY SITTER/SOLO SITTER/FRIEND/NEIGHBOR

Known by many names, “hobby-sitter”, “solo-sitter”, “gig worker”, or even a friend or neighbor is a person who provides pet sitting services either in your house, or their home as a side job or for a little additional income. Although you might find comfort in choosing a person who you know well, there are many issues that arise when using this type of pet care, such as:

Senior client enjoying his walk through his neighborhood.

• Likely that the sitter does not carry liability insurance, bonding or workman’s comp insurance.

• The sitter may not be educated in pet care, and have little pet experience.

• Sitters tend to have other jobs or obligations (i.e., husband, kids, parents), making your pet’s care not their top priority.

• Sitter is often unavailable, especially for last-minute requests and holidays, because they are already booked with another pet or they are tied up with their own personal obligations, work schedule, or most likely they “don’t work holidays”.

• In the event of a sitter emergency, injury, or illness, sitter does not have a back-up sitter to continue care for your pet if they are suddenly out-of-commission. This is particularly bad when you are out of town, or out of the country.

• Sitters tend not to follow professional procedures, policies, and protocols that keep your pet healthy and safe and ensure the care that is being provided to them is exactly what you wanted.

• Owner is unable to use professional pet sitting software, to schedule, communicate through a portal, and pay with a credit card if desired.

APP SITTERS

Perky Westies taking a post-walk rest on their favorite couch!

App companies such as Rover and Wag are well-known because of their marketing but they are not professional pet sitting companies. They are e-commerce websites where services are provided by multiple third parties (“Sitters”). These referral-type websites do not meet the actual “sitters”, they are independent contractors (not employees) and the App cannot control a standard of care. It is up to the pet owner to do due diligence for the safety and well-being of their pet and the security of their home, but sadly many do not.

Tips To Keep Your Cat Mentally Stimulated and Physically Fit

Exercise and entertainment for your feline friend is a crucial part in keeping them healthy physically, mentally, and emotionally. Cats snooze more throughout a 24-hour time period than their dog counterparts but when they are awake they are ready to hunt, chase, bounce, pounce, think, bat, and explore! Without entertainment and stimulation, they have a greater chance of becoming overweight, unhappy, and more likely to find a way to entertain themselves by tearing up a fresh roll of toilet paper or scratching the corner of your couch!

Cats are crepuscular creatures, meaning they are most active during the dawn and dusk. Making the most of their awake hours can be done through interaction between kitty and human, as well as setting up the house to ensure your furry pal can keep themselves busy while you are away from your home or catching up on your human sleep!

Here are some tips and tricks:

Cardboard Boxes & Bags

This isn’t a surprise to most cat owners. The object of your cat’s affection tends to be the cardboard box your pet’s new bed came in or the paper bag that carried home their cat food. Although it is trash in a human’s eye, let them play in their new paper forts before clearing them from the room. These items are the perfect tools for a round of hide & seek or to slide across the room. Throw a toy or cat nip inside to make things even more lively!

Window Watching

Cats are infatuated with the great outdoors! It’s not a coincidence that you may see your neighbor’s kitty perched in the window watching the wildlife buzzing around. Leave a blind open and position a cat tree or bench near the window if the sill isn’t wide enough for them to lounge upon. Consider adding a bird or squirrel feeder near your window to encourage the critters to get closer to your kitty when they’re watching from inside.

Digital Entertainment

YouTube is for cats too! Using your TV, computer, tablet, or cell phone can be a source of merriment for your cat. Here are a few of their favorite channels:

Apps: Cat Fishing 2, Relax My Cat, Games for Cats!, Mouse for Cats, Friskies JitterBug, Laser Pointer for Cat
DVDs: Cat Dreams , Mewvie
YouTube Videos: Birds , Fish , Other Cats , Wildlife , Laser Pointer
TV: National Geographic (found on Cable & Disney+)

Toys & Games

Pet stores are full of toys that cats love but you don’t have to spend a fortune to humor your kitty. Try some of these inexpensive ideas:

• Throw ping pong balls into your bathtub or sink and watch your kitty go wild batting and bouncing them around.

• Hang a shoe lace from a door knob. They won’t be able to resist the dangling new item.

• Induce their hunting skills by running into a different room and hiding behind a door. After they hunt and “attack”, run into another room.

• Roll aluminum foil into a ball and shoot it across the room. Some cats, specifically Siamese cats, will retrieve the ball to start a game of fetch.

• Cats can get bored of a toy that they see and sniff often. Store a few wand toys out of reach from your cat for a while; when you bring them out again your cat will think new prey has entered their territory!

Cat Garden

You don’t need to have a green thumb to grow your kitty’s favorites! Here is a short DIY video on how to create an indoor cat garden.

Popular, non-toxic plants include:

• Wheatgrass “Cat Grass”

• Cat Nip

• Thyme

• Rosemary

• Parsley

Cat grass and cat nip plants can usually be found at your local pet store and can be replanted into your pot.

**Always check the ASPCA site to ensure you never offer a toxic plant to your cat.**

Cat Wheel

Have you ever seen an outdoor cat run? They are fast! They can only run short lengths while inside so consider purchasing a cat wheel where they can sprint as far and as long as they’d like!

Feeding Time

House cats still have their wild streak, wanting to stalk, hunt and forge their food so having it served into a bowl isn’t as stimulating as meal time could be. Try offering their breakfast in a puzzle feeder or hiding a portion of their meal in a toilet paper roll, egg carton, or Kong.

Trees & Scratching Posts

A cat’s instinct is to keep their claws sharpened and ready to attack if needed. Although keeping their claws well-manicured is one reason they scratch, it is also a way for them to self-soothe, fight boredom, strengthen their paws, and leave their scent behind. Each cat tends to have a preferred scratching method, either horizontally or vertically, but it’s important to offer both.

Cat trees tend to have posts that are perfect for vertical scratching while scratching boards & mats provide a horizontal option. Allow your cat freedom to jump, scratch, and stretch on structures that are specifically for them. This also deters them from scratching your furniture!

Catio

Allow you kitty to explore on your screened-in patio so they can experience the outdoors safely. If you don’t have a screened-in patio, you can build or purchase a free standing enclosure!

Tricks

It’s true! Armed with a high reward treat, you can teach cats tricks by using the clicker method. Watch Jackson Galaxy give a crash course on how to use a clicker to train your furry kid.

Leash Walking

Some cats are willing to give leash walking a whirl, but it’s important that you introduce it to them slowly. Allow them to get used to wearing their harness by allowing them to walk around the house for long periods of time over the course of a few weeks. Once they seem comfortable in their harness, attach the leash and practice walking around the house so you both become comfortable. Depending on the curiosity level of your cat, they might want to stay close to home on the porch, sidewalk, or driveway. Don’t push your cat into exploring more than they are comfortable with. Leash training takes time and patience!

Cuddle Time

Providing your kitty with affection also makes for a content cat. On top of catching some zzzz’s or binge watching a Netflix series together, brush their fur or even offer them a fresh warm blanket from the dryer.

Hire A Pet Sitter

When you are away from home for more than 24 hours, hire a professional pet sitter who can step in and take care of all the wants and needs of your kitty while you are gone! You’ll come home to a calmer, happier cat.