Cat Health

10 Tips For Raising A Friendly Cat

Typically, people refer to cats as one of the friendlies animals in this world. While it is true that cats are friendlier pets, it still depends on what breed the cat is. Bear in mind that not all the cat breeds are as friendly as what you may think. Nevertheless, the good thing is that you can make them friendly through time and by various processes. If you’re bringing any breed of kitten, you can make them grow just the way you want. There are various steps in which you can help your cats comfortably grow and allow the flourishing of the lovable personalities of each and every one of them. In this article, we are going to discuss the 10 tips for raising a friendly cat. Therefore, if you want to turn your cat from a monster to a friendly pet, this article is the best for you!

10 Tips for Raising a Friendly Cat

If there is one thing that all the cat parents know, that would be, raising a cat is like raising a kid. There are so many responsibilities that you need to do, and the pressure in raising them properly is all on your shoulders. In addition, just like in children, cats may be out of control as well. Nevertheless, one thing is for certain, we can impart something to them, which will help them in shaping their characters.

If you want your cat to grow up affectionate and sociable, here are the top 10 tips for raising a friendly cat, which will surely transform your cat!

1. Make time for playtime.

Playing with your cat and nestling is a great playtime for your cat. Remember, cats can sometimes have a lot of energy with them, so even you are tired coming from work and you cat wants to play, you need to play with him no matter what. That is what you call the sacrificial love. After all, playing with your baby will definitely get rid of all your tiredness from work. You may even go an extra mile by letting him sleep with you every now and then. This will create a long-lasting bond between the two of you, hence making her a much friendlier cat as the time passes by.

2. Be your cat’s guardian angel.

Naturally, cats are so curious. Therefore, there are times when they will certainly get in is much trouble. There are times when they will be stuck on the window, on top of the drawer, or on the ceiling. Thus, it is the best to keep an eye on them every single time. You need to be there to save them every time they need your help. They might feel that you’re so trustworthy and so that they’d be confident in whatsoever situation they are in, even with some other unfamiliar people surround them. That is the kind of trust, which will last for a long period of time.

3. Call your cat pet names.

I am not talking about the real name of your cat, but the pet names like darling, love, honey, etc., which expresses the affection and love towards your cat. Saying sweet words like these may send a calming feeling to your cats, which might make them comfortable around you.

4. Teach some commands.

Having a strong connection between you and your cat via commands implies a much deeper level of trust from your cats. Teaching them tricks via rewards may help in building a closer relationship between the two of you. It’ll also teach you patience and your cat the perseverance ‘til she becomes friendly, loving, obedient, and responsible.

5. Reward and socialize.

It’s a great thing to make your cats go outside the house every once in a while, you can go to parks and make your cat socialize with some other humans and cats. You need to let them be familiar with all kinds of socialization.

6. Show some affection.

Whenever you get the chance to show that you love your cat, do it. Showing affection to your cat can be a way for you to try to tell her that humans are gentle creatures, which will show her affection and love.

7. Always be available.

Your own presence is very important in raising a friendly cat. You only have to be in there and spend some of your time with them. This is for them to know that you value them so much. Cats can be so independent so you need to keep them hooked up into you.

8. Make canine friends.

In spite of the stereotypes that dogs and cats are mortal enemies, numerous situations suggest that there’s a huge chance that these two may be great friends. Even though most of the cats are afraid of dogs naturally, they may get over their own fears every time they are in danger.

9. Train your cat to come when it’s called.

There’s a sense of much deeper relationship when your cat runs to you in an instant when you call it. You may practice that through the constant calling out of their names. This is a great training for your cat to not be shy when people call him –he’ll much friendlier towards them.

10. Be gentle.

When your cat does something bad, don’t get too upset and hurt your cat –be gentle. The truth is that, cats may get scared if you are not going to handle them with care, even though they did something wrong. Don’t yell at your cat, be gentle to him no matter what.

Conclusion

Having a great relationship with your cat is a two-way process. If you really want to receive affection and love from your cats, you will need to show them first how it is done. Be loving, caring, gentle, and always be there for them. Follow the aforementioned 10 tips for raising a friendly cat and you will see a progress in your relationship with your cat.

Here’s How to Stop Your Cat from Marking in your Home

The cat is one of the common in-house pet that humans love. Because their fluffy, furry, and has a friendly-vibe, it makes them so adorable to play with. But the fun stops when these ferocious cats spray in your home.

Cat Marking

Urine marking is a normal way for cats of identifying their territory or just covering other cat’s scent. Cat spraying on house surfaces occurs in any gender, breed, or age of both male and female cats. Although it’s a natural behavior, you can prevent this to keep your home free from awful odor.

Types of Cat Marking

The scent is important for cats to communicate. Getting along with other cats needs to get a good sniffing-over before they treat each other as family. There are several ways to mark their territory, here are as follows:

  • Rub Marking

The scent glands of cats come from their paws, flanks, and cheeks, and rubbing it to anything can leave their scent. That only means that they have been there and they claim territory on that place. They even do it human, rubbing their body against you tells other cats to back off.

  • Scratch Marking

More than sharpening their claws, cats scratching to something shows that they are leaving their mark. Their scent comes also from the pad of their feet and scratching them to a surface is another way to mark their territory. And instead of punishing them, you can train them to scratch at a certain place and stay away from furniture.

  • Urine Marking

There are two forms in urine marking for cats, first is spraying vertically, second is urinating horizontally. When their tail erects and squirts urine, that is called spraying or marking. But when they squat to pee on the floor or another horizontal surface then it is just a regular urination.

Causes of Cat Marking

The usual way of dealing with this is to train your cat to use the litter box. However, some cats are not satisfied with it that is why they continue to urinate in different places in your home. There are several possibilities why your cat is marking and here are as follows:

  • Medical Issues

One cause of urine marking is due to medical problems. This usually occurs in male cats that is why they are not comfortable using the litter box. They often spend a lot of time trying to urinate, lick their genitals, and even cry to let someone know that something is wrong.

Here are some of the medical issues your cat might have:

  • Kidney or Bladder stones
  • Urinary crystals or Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD)
  • Urinary Tract Infection
  • Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)
  • Liver disease
  • Hyperthyroidism
  • Diabetes mellitus
  • Old age
  • Stress

  • Mating Behaviors

An unneutered adult cat is the most marking issues. It is advisable to get them neutered or spayed by five months of age. The longer you wait, the higher the risk that your cat will develop marking behavior.

  • Environmental Changes

Even the slightest change in the environment can be very stressful for cats. A new pet, cat, or even baby in the house are some of the factors that lead to their anxiety. Marking their territory through urination is their way of dealing with stress.

Stop Cats from Marking

Spraying is a result of your cat’s stress. When you spot its signs, you need to take immediate action. However, solving this needs may require a lot of understanding and patience.

Here are few tips to control cat’s marking:

  • Have your cat spayed when by five to six months as it will fix their behavior on
  • Avoid using strong-smelling detergents when cleaning areas in your house because it can cause your cat to mark on that spot.
  • Feed or play with your cat in areas that they most likely to mark.
  • Keep object that could attract your cat to mark out of their reach.
  • Limit your cat from windows, doors, or any areas that they will be able to observe other animals.
  • Create a relationship with all your cats because the more they play together the lesser the chance of spraying.
  • Make a daily routine for your cat in terms of feeding or playing to make them calm.
  • Consult your veterinarian if you want to have anti-anxiety medication to treat your cat.
  • Use spray repel to keep your cat away from selected areas in your house and interrupt their undesirable pattern of behavior.

Conclusion

Some cat owners get confused with their pet’s behavior on spraying and urinating. If you are not sure on what seems to be the problem, you should immediately call your veterinarian. They may have a urinary tract infection or diseases that need to be treated soon.

10 Danger Signs that Your Cat is Stressed

Just like humans, cats can also experience stress and anxiety. There are used with routine stuff so even a small change in their environment can affect their personal behavior. They display a wide variety of physical and verbal signs to show their owners that something is wrong with them.

A lot of common situation can trigger these problems including a new pet or person in the house, car rides, and veterinary visits. They show discomfort and it is the owner’s responsibility to know this to avoid future problems. To help you identify, here are 10 danger signs that your cat is stressed:

1. Spraying

Urinating outside the litter box can indicate medical issues such as urinary tract infection, bladder or kidney stones, or any related diseases. It is a good thing to have your cat visit your veterinarian to make sure they will be fine. This way, you can prevent future problems regarding your cat’s health.

2. Gastrointestinal Issues

Some cats experience vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation when they are stressed. It is best to consult your veterinarian when this happens. You might thin\it is just solely stressed but it is better to be sure and have your cat get medicated.

3. Aggressive

While some cats hide when they are stress, others react differently. They become too aggressive towards humans and animals that they use their claws and teeth defensively. That is why in cases like this, it is advisable to have them locked up or restrained in a pet clinic to control their aggression.

4. Excessive Grooming

Overly licking, scratching, and biting at their bodies indicates the stress in your cats. This can lead to skin irritation or infection so it is very important to monitor your cat’s behavior. Disregard the thought of allergies, fleas, and any environmental component when this sign occurs.

5. Hiding

Many cats hide in places like under the bed, behind couches, or insider drawers. Some owner thought that they are just playing but this is their way to reduce their stress. They run away and tries to hide in a place where they feel safe.

6. Tail Positioning

When a cat is in a state of anxiety or stress, they tend to hold their tail in a low position and flick it back and forth. The cat’s tail is the most expressive part of their body. So when they display this behavior, you should be careful as they become aggressive and defensive.

7. Vocalizing

The cat vocalizing through meowing, hissing, growling, or yowling is their way to display displeasure. It is best to stay away from them and give them enough space to handle their stress. Silent cats are even dangerous to interact with so take into consideration their body language.

8. Extreme Shedding

In a stressful situation, cats often experience a normal physiologic response in shedding. Their muscles become tense that results in excessive release of follicles of their hairs known as telogen. It is a natural reaction and is hard to avoid once your cat has high anxiety.

9. Breathing

A normal cat has an average of 20 to 30 breaths per minute. When your cat shows an increase in heart rate, pulse, and any respiratory issues then you should call your veterinarian right away. This situation is very alarming and considered an emergency.

10. Physical Changes

Stressed cat has wider eyes, dilated pupils, and pins their ear back flat on their head. It is a hormonal or flight response in stressful situations. You need to adjust to their emotions and look closely at their physical reaction to help them with their stress.

Ways to Help Your Stressed Cat

It is always the best thing to have your cat have an appointment with your veterinarian if the above signs occur. But, if they disregard the cause of medical issues then you must be aware of other ways on how you can help your stressed cat. Here are some tips to alleviate the stress and anxiety in your cat:

  • Play and Exercise

Having a regular exercise or playtime with your cat to boost their confidence. You can try activities like letting them chase a mouse or follow a feather to reduce their anxiety and stress. You can also use cat toys to distract them and turned their attention to other activities.

  • Safe Zone

Create a safe zone for your cat and give them the space they need. It is nice to have their getaway place when they feel threatened by other animals or humans. Moving them to a quiet spot or getting cat trees can be a potential area for them.

  • High-Quality Food

Your cat food must be high-quality as it is essential to their health and well-being. Prepare a well-balanced diet to ensure their good life stage and lifestyle. When you try to switch to other brands, you can start by adding little at a time to make time for your cat to adjust.

Conclusion

Always be aware of the signs of stress in your cats. If it is needed, have a regular check-up with your veterinarian to make sure there are no medical issues. Help your cat deal with stress by making changes in your house to make them feel safe and comfortable.

How Fear Can Keep Your Cat Away From The Litter Box?

So, you got a cat and a litter box. But your cat refuses to have a “dirty” cat time in his private litter box.

Why?

Maybe he wants to get in your nerves? Or maybe he wants attention? Maybe a punishment for you since his dinner is late? Or maybe, he fears his litter box?

He’s scared?!

It might sound surprising, but yes, some cats are afraid to even go near their litter box. Why? Here’s why:

1. Negative Litter-Box Association

There are various reasons as to why a cat that has used her litter box daily in the past starts to ditch it and do his dirty elimination away from the box. The most common reason is that there might be something upsetting that has happened to him while he was using his litter box.

If this is the case, then you might notice that your cat seems hesitant and scared to return to his box or if he even tried to get on the box, he will jump out and leave immediately like a scaredy cat before he can even use the box.

The most common cause of this is painful eliminations. If your cat has a medical condition which caused him pain while eliminating, then he might have learned to relate the discomfort by using his litter box, thus avoiding it altogether. And even if your cat’s health returned to normal, such association might still cause her to fear her litter box.

2. Household Stress

Stress can cause your cat to fear the litter box. Cats tend to be stressed by certain events that their owners might not think of as traumatic. Change in things which do not even affect your cat directly (such as a new family or animal member, moving, or even changing his daily routine) will make a cat feel anxious.

3. Litter Box Placement

The location of the litter box might also scare your kitty. Cats like private, safe and quiet places to do what they need to do. For instance, if you place the litter box in the dark basement or at a scary floor, she may be afraid to go there and would go spray somewhere under a light instead. If you put the litter box somewhere she needs to brave some stressor in order to do his things like besides a dryer, washer, a dominant cat’s territory, or even Rover’s favorite sleeping spot, then he will definitely ditch the litter box and do his thing somewhere safer.

4. Territorial Disputes

If you have more than one cat in your home, then disputes might arise over the usage of the litter box. By nature, cats are very territorial. The dominant cat will sometimes leave his feces uncovered as a form of marking in order to announce her status and presence. Uncovered feces on a litter box only means that that territory or litter box is taken. If other cats feel like they are approaching a dominant cat’s territory, then they will be hesitant or scared to use that box.

7 Hacks to Get Your Cat to Use the Litter Box

One of the best things about having a cat is their high capacity for house training. Long before most puppies can master the concept of where they should do their thing, kittens are heading reliably to their litter box, making life more pleasant and easier for everyone in the household.

This might be the case for some. However, for some people, getting their cat to use the litter box seems an exhausting challenge. So, how do you get her to actually like doing it? Here are seven hacks you should try:

1. Get The Right Number Of Litter Boxes

Try to offer your cat enough litter boxes to do her thing. Most experts will agree on this especially if you have more than one cat in your home. This is to avoid territorial disputes among cats and making sure that each cat has their own litter box for themselves.

2. Think About The Location

You need to place the litter boxes somewhere it is easily accessible and has low traffics. If you put the litter box in a place that is constantly occupied, then the cat will not use it. Also, if a cat needs to walk past on your Doberman’s favorite sleeping spot in order to get to the box, then she would just go somewhere safer.

And, an older cat might not be able to climb up and down the stairs without challenge, so you might want to place a box on each level of your home.

3. Do Not Place The Litter Box Near His Food

By nature, cats keep their elimination away from their nests as far as possible in order to keep predators away from their living space. And since cats will not eliminate where they eat, the cat litter which is too close to his food bowl will most likely not get used. It is a common sense: You would not eat somewhere near a bathroom now, would you?

4. Make Sure That Your Cat Fits In His Litter Box

The litter box needs to be large enough in order to accommodate your cat’s entire body. If her hind legs stick out when he is inside, he will either not use it or his aim will be directed to the floor.

This is the same for kittens and smaller cats. Get a box that is small and easy for them to exit and enter, then change it as the kittens grow. As for senior, they need a box they can easily climb in and out.

5. Clean The Litter Box Often

Scooping and cleaning the litter boxes frequently will encourage your kitty to use them. Try to scoop the box at least two times a day or whenever they use it. Empty the box once a month and wash it with hot water and enzyme-killing products. Air dry the boxes, then refill them with clean and fresh litter. As a result, your house will also smell fresh and clean.

6. Consider Getting Litter Boxes With And Without Lids

Get the type of litter box that your cat prefers. Even though you might want a litter box with a lid in order to contain odor and spillage, your cat might want the wide open space of a no-lid box for quick exits and easy entry. Still, some cats prefer the privacy which a lid can provide, particularly if there are some cat bullies in your home who like to pick on him when he is doing his thing. Try to offer both types in order to see which one your cat prefers.

7. Choose A Cat Litter That Is Easy On The Toes

If your cat does not like how the litter feels on his paws, then she most definitely won’t use it. There are some types of kitty litter that are too hard on their tender paws, particularly for declawed cats. Litters with find textured sandlike pieces are much easier on the paws that those large, chunky pieces usually with sharp edges.

You might need to change the types or brands a few times until you can find the perfect one that your cat will prefer. And when he finally found the perfect one, try not to change it for something cheaper or affordable. Some cats will be so stubborn that they will never use a box litter with a new substance that looks and smells alien to them.

10 Tips for A Happy Indoor Cat

Some people think that cats are uncaring and evil creatures, that’s not true. Cats just don’t require a lot of attention from their owners, unlike other pets like dogs. But I assure you that your pet cat loves you, they just show it in their own unique way.

So how can you keep your cat happy indoors? Keeping your pet cat indoors is one of the best ways of keeping them safe from other animals, or at least keeping the birds safe. We all know that cats are great hunters, especially when it comes to birds. So It’ll be better to keep your cats indoors or on a patio.

10 Tips on Keeping Your Cat Happy

Here is a list of 10 tips for cat owners to keep your feline friend happy:

1. Install a Bird Viewing Station

The reason why pet cats hunt for birds and other small animals is that it’s in their blood. If you feed your cat well, they would still retain their natural prey catching behavior towards small animals. So to prevent your cat from killing the wildlife creatures, and at the same time keep them happy, you should get them a cat window perch.

It is a small cat bed that can be mounted on your window’s glass or sills, perfectly providing your cat a good view outside. Install a birdbath or feeder right outside the window, the one where you have mounted the cat perch. This way, your cat will have lots of hours of viewing pleasure, and you can also keep the wildlife safe from being preyed upon by your cat.

2. Play with your Feline Friend

Cats are undoubtedly playful creatures, not as active as other furry pets, but active enough to keep you and your cat entertained. They are flexible and are natural athletes if your pet cannot work out its excess energy, then it might go crazy in your house (not literally though).

There are a lot of cat toys sold in pet stores to keep your cat entertained. Their fake mice, feathered toys, laser pointers, strings, and others to keep your cat pouncing. Remember, if your cat is tired of having too much playtime, the happier your pet is.

3. Let your Pet Hunt

No, I don’t mean to let your cat outside and just let it hunt for birds. What I mean is that you should provide them with a hunting game so that they won’t get bored and look for ways to get outside. Stimulate its hunting instinct by placing treats around your house. Cats are curious animals, with this kind of activity they would less likely get bored.

You can also put treats in cat puzzle toys to keep your pet mentally stimulated. This is an enrichment tactic that is also used for the big cats in zoos, this is to help have a good physical and mental condition.

4. Always Place a Clean Litter Box

Cats are sensitive to smell and would want a clean environment to be happy. When they do their own business, they do it in a place where they can bury it after relieving itself. It is a natural instinct of theirs. So if they find a dirty litter box, they might find another place where they can relive their selves.

Change your pet’s litter box at least twice a week and scoop it up at least once a day. To avoid excess litter from being scattered around the house, place a mat in front of the box to snag the excess litter on your cat’s paws. Not only will this keep you and your pet happy, it will also keep your house clean from scattered litter.


5. Provide your Pet with a Cat Tree

Felines are natural climbers, in wild cats climbing on trees are their way of pursuing their prey, and their kind of safe place when they get frightened. Domestic cats they have retained this kind of behavior. So to at least prevent your cat from climbing onto your curtains, or getting up on your cupboards, which would then lead in several broken glasses, provide them with a cat tree.

A cat tree or often called as a kitty condo can stretch from your floor up to your home’s ceiling. There are smaller ones if you prefer that. If you ever install a cat tree in your house, I suggest that you place it near a window to provide your pet with a good view outdoor.


6. Place a Scratching Material in your Home

                               

Every cat has their own favorite scratching material, you may need to try out a few scratchers before you can find the right one. It’s best to get scratcher before you even think about getting a pet cat, this is to prevent them scratching and ruining your furniture.


7. Use a Patio

If you want your pet to experience what it feels like to be outside, then consider using a patio or ‘catio’ for them. You can either build your own or buy a ready to be used one. This also enhances their space other than inside your house, place a couple of climbing things, plants, steps, ramps, or if you prefer, a koi pond on the patio.


8. Use a Catnip

                            

Catnip is a kind of mint plant that contains a natural oil, it’s called a nepetalactone. It has a unique effect on cats when they have inhaled, chewed, or rubbed their face or body on it. Its’ kind of like a drug for them, it makes them a bit high. Don’t worry catnips are harmless and temporary. If you want another tool to make your cat happy and stimulated, then consider buying catnip.


9. Regularly Take your Cat to its Vet

When cats get older, their appetite and activity normally decline. But this can also be a sign of illness, so make sure you regularly take your cat to its vet to have its health checked.

10. Let It Sleep where it Prefers to Sleep

Instead of buying an expensive cat bed for your feline friend, why not just provide it with a cardboard, old blankets, box, or towels as their bed. Cats sleep in weird places, it can be in baskets, drawers, pots, even on a stack of papers. But instead of getting mad at them, just let them sleep wherever they like. But if you think they are sleeping in a place where they can get hurt, then gently move or carry them to a safer place.

Conclusion:

Most of know that cats have a reputation of being independent and aloof, but that doesn’t mean that they don’t care about their owners and their company. Cats also want to be entertained and need a companion. So aside from providing them with their, also give them some attention to make them feel that they are loved. With proper care and enough attention, this will be enough to keep your cat happy in your care.

 

6 Litter Box Ideas to Make Life Neater

As a cat lover or owner, for sure you’re aware that the litter box struggle might be real. Aside from having lots of them, you also have to understand where to place them so that you will still have a clean environment at home.

Litter boxes are essential to have, however, they are not attractive to look at. As a matter of fact, even the cleanest litter box can be smelly sometimes.

Either way, if you don’t have any idea what to do on your cat’s litter box then you have come to the right place. In this article, we will show you six litter box ideas to make life neater while offering your cats some privacy to their business.

1. Litter Box Inside A Byholma Chest

Materials:

  • Work Gloves (optional)
  • Safety goggles (optional)
  • Glue Gun
  • Shelf Liner (clear)
  • Litter pan
  • Wire cutters
  • Byholma Chest

Directions

  • Unfold the chest, then set it vertical.
  • Cut over the rattan on one side. Determine which side you would want to leave exposed. Once you’ve decided snip the rattan using wire cutters from top to button.
  • After removing the horizontal rattan knitting, remove the vertical supports. Make sure to remove it fairly by winding and pushing inside.
  • Clean the edges. Also, check and look for nails stabbing out.

Note: If you do not want to line the box, then you are finished. Just simply place the base to the bottom and install your litter box. But if you are going to line it, then continue to the next step.

  • When it comes to lining the box, you can make use of hot glue and shelf liner. Tack the sides down using a glue to that it would stay upright.
  • Lastly, drop on the litter pan and you’re finished.

2. Kitty Litter Bin Obscurer

Materials

  • Shelving unit and swinging door
  • Dishwasher mat
  • Litter Bin
  • Deodorizers (optional)
  • Cat door

Directions

  • Make a hole to any side of the shelving unit you would like. Even so, this is a matter of liking. But nevertheless, we think it is best when you make a hole in the left side of the shelving unit.
  • Mount a cat door, make sure it will suit to your pet’s size.
  • Put the litter bin inside.
  • Sprinkle some deodorizers such as homemade activated charcoal and baking soda. These deodorizers will significantly minimize the litter box’s odor.

Without a doubt, this litter box idea will make a good job hiding your bin and giving your cat a privacy when doing his/her business.

3. Cat Cabinets

Materials

  • IKEA PS Lockers
  • Tin Snips (heavy-duty)
  • Cat door kit
  • Drill bit and drill that is designed for drilling over metal.

Directions

After assembling the lockers or cabinets, make a hole for your cat’s door by means of following the template which came with the cat door kits.

On the other hand, the cabinets come with shelves but you don’t need them. Better yet hang them on your walls for instant magnet boards.

Either way, drill some pilot of holes nearby the traced line so that you will be able to get the durable tin snips to the cabinet in order to cut the door.

Mark the screw holes and drill over. Connect your cat’s door and secure.

There you have it an easy cabinet where you can place your cat’s litter box.

4. Bedroom Litter Box

Materials

  • Chest with two drawer
  • Pet door

If you are sharing the same bedroom with your kitten’s litter box, then this idea is for you.

Directions

This litter box idea is very easy to make. All you have to do is, bore a hole that perfectly matches to your available pet’s door on top of the drawer. After which assemble the chest according to the instructions. And there you have it a litter box that can be placed in your bedroom neatly.

5. Kitty Loo

Materials

  • Wall Cabinet (FAKTUM)
  • White door
  • Litter box
  • Vinyl Roll (Self-adhesive)
  • Cat Flap

Directions

  • Assemble the frame.
  • Cut the access hole for the cat flap using a jigsaw. Make sure to follow the template that comes with the cat flap.
  • Once you have made holes on the bottom and top of the shelf cover the sides using a self-adhesive vinyl. Even so, you can also cover the inner part of the cabinet so that the litter would not fall into the holes.
  • Fixed a push opener to the cabinet, to ensure that you will be able to open the door with ease. In addition, you can screw a hook where you can place the litter scoop.
  • To avoid leakage of litter on your floor, place a plastic textured mat between the cat flap and litter tray. You can also place bicarbonate of soda on a glass and put it inside the cabinet, to absorb the nauseating
  • After which, check if you can open and clean the box effortlessly.

6. Living Room Litter Box

Materials

  • Eight screws (intended for hinges)
  • Two hinges
  • Ikea Corras Side Table
  • Drill

Directions

Similar to other ideas in this list, the living room litter box is also easy to make.

First off, remove the 4 casters by means of removing the bolts clasping the casters to the bottom of the table.

After which, transform the shelf to a door by means of attaching the 2 hinges to the front part of the table. Even so, since the shelf comes with a table, you don’t have to resize or trim it, because it was a seamless fit.

However, if you’re not comfortable with visible hinges, you don’t have to worry because you can purchase unseen cabinet hinges from any hardware store. Lastly, place the litter tray inside of it.

Either way, your cat will be able to access this litter box from the back. But when it comes to cleaning you can access the box from the front.

Conclusion:

There you have it the six litter box ideas that will make life neater and offer your cats some privacy while doing their business.

Hopefully, this content helps you a lot in maintaining a clean and fresh environment not only for yourself and family but for your cats as well.

 

Best Self-Cleaning Litter Box for Cats

Most cat lovers would know that felines are relatively easy to take care of, as they are generally independent and like cleaning themselves. But if your cat is usually indoors, it is advisable to get them their own litter box so you would not have to deal with nasty cat feces.

Cats enjoy keeping themselves clean, and this includes leaving no trace behind them after they defecate. In fact, it is a cat’s natural instinct to cover up their feces. This is very good news for cat owners: you do not have to clean up after your cats.

Today, we present you a list of the best self-cleaning litter boxes for cats available in the market. While litter boxes are relatively old news, there are only a few self-cleaning litter boxes sold at Amazon.com that have been receiving good customer reviews. We are giving you only the best ones today.

Omega Paw Self-Cleaning Litter Box

The Omega Paw Self-Cleaning Litter Box is priced at around $30 for the medium size and around $45 for the large size. This litter box is most ideal for households with several cats or cats of a larger size. Buy this and you would not have to scoop cat litter again.



Pros:

  • Cheap and mostly effective
  • Available in a variety of sizes
  • Does not require scoops, liners and filters
  • Provides easy disposal
  • No need for electricity
  • One year manufacturer warranty
  • Easy to set-up and easy to clean
  • Good for multiple cats and large cats
  • Does the job fast and easy

Cons:

  • Has the tendency to leak and clog
  • Does not sift small clumps
  • Prone to breakage

PetSafe ScoopFree Self-Cleaning Litter Box and Anti-Tracking Mat Bundle

The ScoopFree Self-Cleaning Litter Box comes with an Anti-Tracking Mat. Together, they are sold for around $170. The PetSafe ScoopFree Self-Cleaning Litter Box alone weighs 21 pounds and is sold separately for around $160.



Pros:

  • Self-cleaning mechanism lasts for weeks without scooping, cleaning and refilling
  • Litter trays have leak-proof lining
  • Crystals used as litter are 99% dust-free
  • Includes a health counter that tracks the frequency of usage of the cats
  • Has an adjustable timer for automatic rake
  • Has safety sensors that reset rake timers once cat re-enters box
  • Has a privacy hood to hide your cat as it uses the litter box
  • Crystals used as litter controls odor and absorbs urine better than other types of litter
  • Anti-tracking mat provides comfort for cat’s paws

Cons:

  • Litter box alone is only rated 3.5 stars
  • Expensive and non-refundable
  • Limited use for cats only
  • Refills and replacement parts are expensive
  • Large and takes up a lot of floor space
  • High maintenance costs
  • Cleaning the product can be time-consuming
  • Crystals need regular replacements

 

CatGenie Self-Washing Self-Flushing Cat Box

 

 

The priciest self-cleaning litter box among the three listed here is the CatGenie Self-Washing Self-Flushing Cat Box, which is priced for around $240. Nevertheless, this litter box guarantees efficiency as it functions like an actual toilet that flushes with a simple press of a button. This litter box is ideal for one to two cats that are of average size.

 



Pros:

  • Uses litter-like washable granules to satisfy your cat’s need to dig and cover its feces
  • Low maintenance
  • Easy for cats to use
  • Fast and easy to set-up and install
  • Leaves no trace of odor
  • Does not require trays to empty

Cons:

  • Expensive
  • Requires electricity to work
  • Large and takes a lot of floor space
  • Produces a loud sound when it disposes water and waste
  • Does not work very well with loose bowel

Factors to Consider When Buying the Best Self-Cleaning Litter Box for Cats

 

Budget

As with every investment, your budget must be a factor to consider when buying your cats a self-cleaning litter box. Because of the modern technology it uses, self-cleaning litter boxes are generally expensive. Make sure that you are investing well and that through your purchase of a self-cleaning litter box, you will be saving time and energy in the future.

There are several self-cleaning litter boxes out in the market and the price range is big. Make sure to get one that is efficient and that will cater to the specific needs of your cat. You do not have to break the bank for a litter box.

 

Size of Litter Box

Litter boxes come in all shapes and sizes, but most pet owners are unaware of how important it is to get the right size of the litter box for their feline friends. The rule of thumb is that the litter box you purchase must be around double the size of your cat. Meanwhile, if your cat is tiny, do not be buying a litter box that would be too big for them to reach.

You must also take into consideration whether your cat is alone or if it will be sharing its litter box with other cats as well. Most of the time, it is ideal to have more litter boxes than cats so that there would be no need for competition. You may as well avoid catfights that would probably lead to soiled carpets.

However, if having too many litter boxes is out of your budget, opt to get a larger litter box. Make sure the litter box is made for multiple cats. While some litter boxes could cater to multiple cats, others will not be able to handle even two cats at once.

Of course, you must also check if the litter box would properly fit your home. Remember that even the location of where the litter box will be matters hugely. For example, you must not put the litter box near cat food as many cats do not want to eat near where they dump.

Litter box locations must be accessible and appealing to cats. This means that they should be visible in the room where your cat mostly stays in. It should also be placed in an area away from disturbances (i.e., noise, sudden movements) so that your cat could do its business privately and in peace.

Type of Litter Crate

Knowing different types of litter crates is essential as some cats are particular about their privacy.

Open Top Clutter Crate – This crate has four walls and a floor but has no roof. It actually resembles a carton box, which makes it the most economical type of crate there is. However, this type of crate will most likely produce bad odor as it has no roof to cover the feces.

Covered Type – This crate resembles the open top cluttered crate, but with a roof. The covered type provides more privacy for your cat but will make it more difficult for you to clean.

Sifting Litter Box – This type of crate has a sifter that you need to lift to remove feces easily.

Hidden Litter Box – This type of litter boxes are just any types of litter boxes in the form of common household pieces such as planters.

However, when we speak about self-cleaning litter boxes, they most of the time qualify as a whole different type altogether. Do make sure that if your cat is unable to dump in a public area that the self-cleaning litter box you are about to purchase has enough privacy for your cat.

 

Ease of Operation of Litter Box

Because of its advanced technology, self-cleaning litter boxes may be a challenge to some pet owners. Make sure that you get a self-cleaning litter box that will not drive you crazy with all of its instructions. There are plenty user-friendly self-cleaning litter boxes available in the market, and it would be best to consult the seller about how to operate these boxes.

Do not worry, as self-cleaning litter boxes are generally a lot easier to operate than manual sifting litter boxes. You do not have to be overwhelmed.

 

Maintenance Cost and Time

Some self-cleaning litter boxes are cheaper than others but require a lot of expensive add-ons. Some are pricey but can stand alone. Generally, when the self-cleaning litter box looks complex, it will be requiring more maintenance.

You could look for self-cleaning litter boxes that are maintenance-free for you to avoid the unnecessary stress of maintaining them.

 

Conclusion

All this being said, it is still most important that you do your research. Self-cleaning litter boxes for cats are rarely affordable, but most customers swear that switching to automated litter boxes have changed their lives.

It is necessary for you to get to know your feline pals as well. Usually, cats have a unique routine of their own, and it would be good for you to understand this to have an easier time training it to use the litter box.

There will always be pros and cons for every product. For self-cleaning litter boxes, you just have to assess which ones would most perfectly fit your cat’s needs and personality. We have itemized all known areas for considerations for the items listed here in the hopes that we could give you an educated head start on narrowing down your options.

 

Best Cat Food for Weight Loss

Is your cat as cute as cotton candy? Does it wobble while it walks? Is your cat having hard time breathing?

You may not know it, but your cat might be too heavy to function.

Cats are often obese. In fact, overweight and obese cats are more than the cats with normal body weight. Obesity in cats means that they have a bodyweight that is 20% higher than normal. This is not cute at all, as this leads to several diseases. Obesity in cats leads to diabetes, arthritis, skin infection, bladder infection, kidney, and heart disease.

Now, there are several things to do when your cat suffers from obesity. One is you encourage more physical activities for your cat. Another is to monitor the diet and calorie intake of your furry friend. Luckily, the latter would not be too difficult for you. We have compiled the best cat food for weight loss available on the market today.

Blue Buffalo BLUE for Cats Adult Dry Cat Food

 

The Blue Buffalo BLUE for Cats Adult Dry Cat Food is one of the most famous cat food brands on the market. With this established credibility, the brand is known to use high-quality ingredients which would definitely be of help to your cats.

Priced at just a little over $30 for a bag with 15 pounds, the Blue Buffalo BLUE for Cats Adult Dry Cat Food can be availed and shipped from Amazon. It is also available in a 3-pound pack which costs around $13 and a 7-pound pack which costs less than $20.

This cat food comes in different flavors: weight control chicken and brown rice, healthy living chicken and brown rice, indoor hairball and weight control, indoor hairball control chicken recipe, indoor health chicken and brown rice, indoor health salmon and brown rice, multi-cat health chicken and turkey, and sensitive stomach chicken and brown rice.



Pros:

  • Tasty flavors
  • Rich in protein, essential amino acids, and vital nutrients
  • Deboned chicken
  • Wholesome whole grains (e. brown rice, barley, oats)
  • Wholesome vegetables (e. whole carrots, sweet potatoes, parsley, cranberries)
  • No by-product meals
  • Cheap and affordable

Cons:

  • May give kittens diarrhea or nausea
  • Not recommendable for cats with a sensitive stomach
  • Some pet owners claim that the food gave their cats urinary infections

Ketogenic Pet Foods – High Protein, High Fat, Low Carb, Natural Dog & Cat Food

 

 

 

Some veterinarians recommend a ketogenic diet as it is high in fat, sufficient in protein and low in carbohydrates. With this formula, the fat in cats is converted into fatty acids and ketone bodies. This also lowers the blood sugar levels in cats.

The Ketogenic Pet Foods – High Protein, High Fat, Low Carb, Natural Dog & Cat Food has four available flavors: salmon, chicken, beef and a mixture of all of the said flavors. It is priced at around $50 for a pack of 14.5 ounces.



Pros:

  • Made for long-term optimal health
  • Has a variety of flavors
  • Free of starch that can cause digestive problems and weight gain
  • Free of grains
  • High in protein, fat, and micronutrients
  • Promotes healthy teeth and shiny coats

Cons:

  • Relatively pricey
  • Some doctors advise against the ketogenic diet

Hill’s Science Diet Cat Food for Healthy Weight and Weight Management

 

 

For those who would rather put their cat in a diet that has been proven and tested, the Hill’s Science Diet Cat Food for Healthy Weight and Weight Management is for you. This brand claims that it has proven that over 70% of cats that used it lost weight within ten weeks.

Priced at around $30 for a pack with seven pounds of cat food, the Hill’s Science Diet Cat Food for Healthy Weight and Weight Management comes with different styles namely: light minced, perfect weight entrée, perfect weight stew, perfect weight dry and light dry. It also comes in three flavors: liver and chicken, chicken and vegetable, and the chicken recipe.



Pros:

  • Made for long-term optimal health
  • Rich in vitamins, minerals and amino acids
  • Clinically proven to have antioxidant benefits
  • Has no artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives
  • Made with natural ingredients
  • Includes real chicken to encourage healthy weight loss and maintain lean cat muscle
  • Helps the immune system of cats

Cons:

  • Some pet owners claim that the food gave their cats diarrhea and nausea because of a change in formula

Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry Cat Food

 

 

 

The Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry Cat Food is priced at a little over $30 for a 12-pound bag. It also comes in a 2.5-pound bag which costs around $11, a 6-pound bag which costs approximately $21, and an 11.5-pound bag.

The cat food also comes in six different flavors: chicken and rice, hairball control, healthy weight chicken and turkey, indoor chicken, salmon and senior chicken.


Pros:

  • Complete and balanced solutions
  • Rich in proteins
  • Has healthy grains
  • Promotes shiny coats and prevents hair fall
  • Compatible with kittens
  • Energizes cats

Cons:

  • Some pet owners claim that the food gave their cats experienced diarrhea and nausea because of a change in formula

 

Solid Gold Weight Control Dry Cat Food; Fit as a Fiddle Grain-Free with Alaskan Pollock

 

The Solid Gold Weight Control Dry Cat Food; Fit as a Fiddle Grain-Free with Alaskan Pollock is not as common as other pet food brands, but it produces quality cat food nevertheless. Its formulas are balanced and contain superfood, which will help your cat lose not only weight but also have a healthy mind and spirit.

The Solid Gold Weight Control Dry Cat Food; Fit as a Fiddle is available in three sizes of packs: a 3-pound bag which costs less than $20, a 6-pound bag which costs around $26, and a 12-pound bag which costs more than $30. Its formula is ideal for adult cats.



Pros:

  • Free of gluten
  • Has holistic grain
  • Has essential amino acids, minerals, and vitamins which promote organ and muscle health
  • Energizing
  • Contains nutrient-rich superfoods (e. carrots, pumpkin, cranberries, blueberries, broccoli, almond oil, kelp, and lentils)
  • Contains Alaskan Pollock that supports weight loss and maintenance
  • Contains monounsaturated fats (e. olive oil, canola oil and salmon oil) which promotes skin and coat health
  • No meat by-product meal

Cons:

  • Not all cats are a fan of its taste
  • Not as tasty as other cat food

 

9 Lives Dry Cat Food

 

 

Priced at only around $16 for a bag with 12 pounds, the 9 Lives Dry Cat Food can be availed and shipped from Amazon. It comes in six flavors: daily essentials, plus care, protein plus, indoor complete, lean and tasty, and chicken. It also comes in a variety of sets and sizes, from a pack of 20 pounds to a pack of six with 3.15 pounds each.



Pros:

  • Tasty flavors of chicken and salmon
  • Ideal for adult cats
  • Balanced formula
  • Made for long-term optimal health
  • Competitive price for the market

Cons:

  • Some pet owners claim that the food gave their cats experienced diarrhea and nausea because of a change in formula
  • Relatively little nutritional value

 

Factors to Consider When Buying the Best Cat Food for Weight Loss

 

Veterinarian’s advice

The best thing to do is to consult your cat’s veterinarian. Once the veterinarian recommends a certain brand or ingredient, you could now explore more options available out in the market.

 

Age and weight of the cat

The nutritional needs of cats vary from age to age and weight to weight. Some adult cat food is not recommendable for kittens. Meanwhile, nutrients may have to double in number when your cat is more overweight.

 

Level of physical activity of cat

There is cat food for weight loss that includes ingredients to help in the promotion of a good immune system and healthy bones and joints. Make sure to get cat food that most suits the needs of your cat.

 

Behavior of the cat

Some cats are sensitive to taste, so know if your cat has a liking for a certain flavor. When you are unsure about your cat’s taste, it may refuse to eat the cat food. Some might even vomit the food out. As you have read, there are different flavors so it would be good for you to get to know your cat before exploring the many options available in the market.

 

Nutrients

Most pet food contains inappropriate ingredients for cats. Therefore you should watch out for the ingredients. Cats that need to lose weight should ideally have a diet low in carbohydrates to normalize the blood sugar levels of the cats.

Conclusion

As always, the best thing to do when your pet faces health issues is to consult the veterinarian. There may be underlying issues on your cat’s obesity which you cannot see on a surface level. However, if you choose to buy cat food for weight loss on your own, make sure to do your research to learn which ingredients your cat needs the most.

Once you have resolved the issue of obesity in your cat, remember to stop overfeeding it and practice giving it enough exercise. Adult cats have a harder time burning off their extra calories. Learn the proper portions of your cat and train it to be disciplined enough to control its own appetite.

 

Best Cat Food for Hairballs

If you have ever owned a cat, you will know that they spend most of their time sleeping, the other part is spent on grooming. All that licking does wonders on their fur, but that can also be the cause of something more serious—hairballs. This is an unavoidable aspect of being a cat owner, and there are ways you can help prevent this from becoming a health hazard for your furbaby.

The following are the best cat food for hairballs that you can give to your cats to help you control its formation:

Nature’s Variety Instinct Original Grain-Free Recipe Natural Wet Canned Cat Food

 

Rich in protein and fibers,Nature’s Variety cat food are made of ingredients that are very similar to what cats would actually eat in their natural habitat. It is free from grains which can cause allergies and can be hard for them to digest. It contains the right amount of protein and fiber to help relieve the discomfort of hairballs.

This cat food has a somewhat strong aroma that some cats may find unappealing. But when you look at online reviews, most users found this as their cat’s favorite.



Pros:

  • Made of 95% chicken, turkey, and chicken liver
  • Doesn’t contain grain, potato, corn, wheat, soy, artificial colors, or preservatives
  • Packed with healthy Omega fatty acids

Cons:

  • Slightly expensive
  • Has a strong smell
  • Poor customer service

Wellness CORE Natural Grain Free Wet Canned Cat Food

Uses a protein-rich recipe made with chicken and turkey, plus loaded with digestible fiber from peas and flaxseed to prevent hair from accumulating in your cat’s digestive tract. Wellness CORE Grain-Free cat food contains the key vitamins and mineral your cat needs for optimum health without any grains added.

There are complaints that some cats will not eat this food but there are more we found that love it. It has some traces of carrageenan, so if you want to avoid that, this may not be for your cat.



Pros:

  • 100% grain-free adult recipe
  • with vitamins, balanced minerals, EPA and DHA omegas and essential taurine
  • No grains, carrageenan, or artificial preservatives, colors or flavors

Cons:

  • Expensive
  • Not recommended for picky cats
  • Contains carrageenan

Purina Pro Plan Entrees in Gravy Adult Wet Cat Food

Purina is a trusted and well-known brand that manufactures high-quality cat food. The Purina Pro Plan Entrees in Gravy Adult Wet Cat Food is one of their gems because it has all the nutrition your cats need. It has fiber that will prevent them from getting too many hairballs in their systems.

One word of caution, this cat food contains a slightly higher amount of phosphorus that would be unsuitable for cats that have urinary tract or kidney issues.



Pros:

  • 100% approved as safe for pets by the FDA
  • Rich in Omega fatty acids
  • Protein-rich with no preservatives

Cons:

  • Not recommended for cats with kidney or urinary tract problems
  • Has carbohydrates that may be indigestible for some cats
  • Some cats will only eat a certain variety

Hill’s Science Diet Hairball Control Cat Food

One of the best cat foods for hairballs, Hill’s Science Diet Hairball Control cat food is designed especially for the control of hairballs. Loaded with natural fibers from vegetable sources, this cat food helps decrease the formation of hairballs by having the hairs move easily through your cat’s digestive system.

Some users report that their cats would not eat this cat food while there is a rare report of a cat that had vomited after eating it. Just to be on the safe side, we will not be recommending this to those whose cats have dietary sensitivities.



Pros:

  • Rich with natural vegetable fiber
  • Has controlled levels of phosphorus
  • Protein-rich and no preservatives added

Cons:

  • Some reports of damaged packaging
  • Not recommended for cats with sensitive stomachs
  • Has a slightly odd smell

Weruva Grain-Free Canned Wet Cat Food

 

An all-natural, completely balanced meal for your cats, Weruva Grain-Free Canned Wet cat food is rich in high-quality protein that promotes a healthy urinary tract aside from preventing hairballs from forming on your cat’s stomach.

It has a very soupy and watery consistency that is preferred by most cats, but not all. There are reports of the customer service being unreliable, but most cat owners do not have issues with the food, so there is no need to call them.



Pros:

  • Grain-free, gluten-free, GMO-free, MSG-free, carrageenan-free
  • High in protein and low in fat and carbs
  • Tested to be great-tasting for most cats

Cons:

  • The consistency is very soup-like
  • Poor customer service
  • Contains vegetable and potato starches

The Best in Hairball Control

Hill’s Science Diet Hairball Control Cat Food

  • Rich with natural vegetable fiber
  • Has controlled levels of phosphorus
  • Protein-rich and no preservatives added

 

The Most Trusted Choice

Purina Pro Plan Entrees in Gravy Adult Wet Cat Food

  • 100% approved as safe for pets by the FDA
  • Rich in Omega fatty acids
  • Protein-rich with no preservatives

 

The Best Tasting Choice

Nature’s Variety Instinct Original Grain-Free Recipe Natural Wet Canned Cat Food

  • Made of 95% chicken, turkey, and chicken liver
  • Doesn’t contain grain, potato, corn, wheat, soy, artificial colors, or preservatives
  • Packed with healthy Omega fatty acids

Factors to Consider When Buying the Best Cat Food for Hairballs:

 

The Ingredients

The main ingredients that prevent the formation of hairballs are protein. The best cat food for hairballs should be protein-rich and has no grains added. This is the natural diet that cats would have in nature. Furthermore, you should also look for ingredients that may cause allergic reactions to your cats and get the cat food that does not have them or at least in small amounts only.

Also, there is a lot of cat food on the market today that is made with all-natural ingredients, and these are the ones that are highly recommended.

 

Your Cat

There are many factors to consider when buying food for your cat. Some of these are your cat’s age, their activity levels, and if there are existing health issues that you need to take note of. Starting at seven years old, your cat is considered a senior and should be eating food that is specially formulated for older cats.

Kittens under a year old also need to eat food specifically formulated for their young age unless recommended by your vet that they are ready for the adult formula.

 

Your Budget

Higher-quality cat food is almost certain to have a higher price tag. If you are on a budget or if you have more than one cat, you may also consider getting budget-friendly cat food. There are a lot of choices you can find that are inexpensive yet effective in getting rid of your hairball problems.

Conclusion

The right food is essential in keeping your beloved hairballs adequately nourished. With the many available choices in the market, it could get confusing. Choosing the wrong kind will not only be a waste of money and effort but will negatively affect your furbabies as well.

We hope this list points you in the right direction. While the ideal brand for your cat might not necessarily be on this list, but now you are more aware of the factors to look for in choosing the perfect option.