Cat Health

How to Get Rid Of Cat Pee Smell from Carpet

Cats— they can be lovable and the perfect cuddle partner at times. But MOST OF THE TIMES, cats are frustratingly aloof, cold, unfriendly, and always had this I-simply-don’t-care-about-you-unless-you-feed-me attitude.

Oh, and they are a great maker of mess, too. From furball vomits to inappropriate urination, cats will just look you dead in the eye, shamelessly making you clean up his mess like you are some maid or what.

Cat pee is a pain and is never fun to clean. But what makes it worse is when your bratty feline chooses to do it on the carpet. Not only does it make stains on your beautifully laid carpet but it also causes unpleasant odors to linger around your home and can sometimes cause respiratory or breathing issues.

This is why it is best to get the cat pee out of the carpet and prevent any pee issues in the near future altogether.

But right now, in fighting urine stains and marks, there are several steps you can do to eliminate and get rid of the unflattering odors and unsightly spots.

1. Wipe The Urine With Paper Towels

If you spotted fresh urine, get a paper towel and try to remove as much of the urine as possible. This should make the job easier. Also, you can use rags for better absorption and soak up more urine.

2. Find The Stain

In case, the crime was done a few hours ago and the evidence already dried up and is hard to find, try to use a UV flashlight to find the urine spot on your carpet. Ultraviolet rays can reflect off the chemicals in a cat pee causing hidden evidence spots to glow when the UV light is shined directly on it. This should make any hard-to-see spots easier to notice on your carpet.

3. Treating The Stain

After wiping or finding the stain, the next thing you need to do is to clean the part. Here are some effective pee cleaners:

 

  • Enzymatic Cleaner

Enzymatic cleaners such as Nature’s Miracle has special biological enzymes which break down the proteins in urine in order to reduce or even completely eliminate the smell.

You can simply spray the enzyme cleaner solution on the affected areas of the carpet. Lightly scrub the cleaner in with a brush in order to ensure full coverage of the affected area then just sit back and let the enzyme do its job.

 

  • Vinegar Solution

In case an enzyme cleaner did not completely remove the smell, then try a vinegar solution. This should cut out the scent of cat urine in the carpet and prevent any future crime.

Just combine equal parts of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle or a bowl then spray or saturate the pee area.

Scrub the vinegar solution on the soiled area using a bristle brush until it is completely soaked in vinegar solution. The vinegar should neutralize the unpleasant smell of your cat’s urine.

Now, use a clean rag or a paper towel to wipe up as much vinegar solution as possible and let the area completely dry.

4. Deodorize Area

Sprinkling baking soda over the area deodorizes the stain. Because baking soda is a natural cleaner as well as deodorant and odor absorber, it can greatly reduce the unpleasant smell of your cat’s urine.

Next, mix a teaspoon of mild dish detergent with a ½ cup of hydrogen peroxide together and spread it over the baking soda. (You might want to spot test this cleaning solution first to confirm that there will be no discoloration.)

Wear rubber gloves and use a scrub brush to rub the solution into the baking soda. Wipe the area clean and allow the carpet to dry.

5. Vacuum Soiled Area

Use a vacuum cleaner on the soiled area to remove both urine particles and deodorizer that you have applied. For best results, try using wet vacs which saturates the carpet, if you have one. However, do avoid steam cleaners since intense heat can actually cause odors to set into the fibers of the carpet more stubbornly.

Reducing the Chances of More Inappropriate Peeing

The more urine that your cat adds to your home, the harder it is to keep the unpleasant odor at bay. So, the best way you can fight this horrible stench is to eliminate any chances of it occurring in the first place. Here some methods you should try:

1. Re-Training

Never punish or yell at your cat for urinating in the wrong place. Instead, move her quickly to her litter box and consistently take her there and give positive feedback when she uses it. This should reinforce a positive association with her litter box and urinating.

2. Replace Litter Box More Often

Believe it or not, cats are hygienic animals and they love clean litter boxes. So, if you are neglecting your cat’s needs of a clean bathroom then he will find the carpet more appealing to pee at.

3. Consider Getting Your Cat Spayed Or Neutered

Cats, just like dogs, are extremely territorial animals. They mark territories they own and that includes the sofa they sit on or the carpet they lie on. Cats that are spayed or neutered will not purposely urinate just to mark their territory and solving small, scattered pee everywhere.

4. Have Your Feline Checked By The Veterinarian

While cats can be bratty and love to create a mess, particularly with young or elderly cats, you cannot simply skip the chances of any medical issues as the reason for your cat’s inappropriate urination. Contact your veterinarian in order to discuss any possible medical reasons why your cat urinates outside the litter box. Medical issues such as diabetes, kidney disease or urinary tract infection, can be life-threatening to your feline buddy if ignored and left untreated.

Conclusion:

Despite the cold treatment you can get from a cat all the times, having a feline buddy can be rewarding and relieves stress. So, do not let any urine odor ruin such an amazing experience.

 

 

Best Dewormer for Cats Available Over the Counter

Keeping our cats indoors can help us prevent them from getting into a lot of trouble. One of these is that they are safe from getting worms. Or so we thought. Worms such as roundworms, hookworms or tapeworms can manifest in indoor cats through many different ways.

Fleas and worm eggs can enter our home when they get lodged in our shoes, clothing, other pets, and even the common house fly. Although the possibility of your indoor cat acquiring worms is very small as compared to outdoor cats, it is still a good idea to have them dewormed regularly.

Your cats and kittens are family so you would naturally be concerned for their health and safety. Having them dewormed is one safety precaution for you to take to ensure that your indoor cats are safe and free from any parasites. Here is our list of the best dewormers for cats on the market today:

 

Panacur C Canine Dewormer

 

Panacur C Canine Dewormer has fenbendazole as its main ingredient. It works effectively in removing gastrointestinal parasites from the stomach and intestines of cats and dogs. It can eliminate hookworms, roundworms, tapeworms, and other parasites as well. Some pet owners notice a slight side effect of loose stools, while some experienced none at all.


Pros:

  • Contains veterinarian-prescribed fenbendazole
  • Can be added to pet food
  • FDA-approved
  • Very little to no side effects

Cons:

  • The powder didn’t mix well with the food

Pro-Sense Liquid De-Wormer for Cats

 

An effective solution to your cat’s intestinal worm infestation, Pro-Sense liquid dewormer contains piperazine that is a very potent treatment for roundworm infections. Also, treat infections with pinworms. It is safe to use for cats and kittens over 6 weeks old, but not recommended for pregnant and lactating queens. There are some reports of slight vomiting as a side effect, but these are very rare.


Pros:

  • Contains piperazine base as piperazine citrate
  • Great taste
  • Prevents re-infestation of roundworms
  • Very affordable

Cons:

  • Not recommended for pregnant or nursing cats

Bayer Tapeworm Dewormer

 

Manufactured by Bayer, a reputable name in the pharmaceutical industry, so you are guaranteed that this dewormer works. Bayer Tapeworm Dewormer active ingredient is praziquantel that is proven to be an effective treatment for a number of types of parasitic worm infections such as tapeworms. It prevents newly hatched insect larvae (worms) from growing or multiplying in your pet’s body. It comes in tablet form so you can easily mix them with your cat’s food.


Pros:

  • Very easy to administer
  • No prescription required
  • Contains praziquantel
  • Easy to administer

Cons:

  • Expensive

Durvet Safeguard Goat Dewormer

 

You may think that this is for goats only, but Durvet Safeguard Goat Dewormer has fenbendazole as its active ingredient. Fenbendazole is effective in removing worm infections on several types of animals. Durvet Safeguard comes in powder form so you can easily mix it with your furbabies’ food. You may need to adjust the dosage by doing a quick online search as the original dose is designed for larger animals.



Pros:

  • Treats infections from over ten different kinds of worms
  • Can be used on cats, dogs, fish, horse, cow, and chicken
  • Contains fenbendazole
  • Comes in powder form

Cons:

  • You have to learn the proper dosage

Columbia Laboratories Pyrantel Pamoate Suspension

 

Roundworms and hookworms are the most common worms that infest cats, Columbia Laboratories Pyrantel Pamoate suspension is an efficient way to remove them. A 50 mg, 32-ounce bottle can be yours for just under $35. It is an affordable way to deworm everyone in your household as you can even use this suspension for humans.


Pros:

  • Suitable for cats, dogs, and humans
  • Contains pyrantel base as pyrantel pamoate
  • Comes in suspension form
  • Has a nice vanilla flavor

Cons:

  • Not for the treatment of all kinds of worms

Pfizer Nemex 2

 

A strong and potent treatment for your cat’s hookworm, pinworm, and roundworm problems, Pfizer Nemex 2 contains pyrantel pamoate that paralyzes the worms so that your cat’s body can easily get them out through their stools. And with a trusted name attached to this dewormer, you can have peace of mind knowing that you are giving your cats the best dewormer there is.


Pros:

  • Suitable for dogs and cats
  • Available without a prescription
  • Safe to use for kittens and nursing queens
  • Cats love the taste

Cons:

  • Pricey

Bayer Expert Care Tapeworm Dewormer for Cats

 

Created specifically with cats in mind, Bayer Expert Care can rid your cat of the most common types of the tapeworms. It comes in tablet form that you can crumble and add to your cat’s food for easy intake. One tablet is enough to get rid of the infections, and with the trusted name Bayer, you will not have to experiment to find the most effective dewormer for your cat.


Pros:

  • FDA-approved
  • Easy to administer
  • Contains praziquantel
  • Strong dosage

Cons:

  • Not for kittens under six weeks of age

Naturpet D Wormer

 

This cat Naturpet D Wormer dewormer can help you eliminate giardia, pinworms, roundworms, whipworms, tapeworms, and ringworms. It uses only natural ingredients like wormwood aerial parts, black walnut hull, sage leaves, black and fennel seeds, as well as papaya leaves, no added harsh chemicals that can be harmful to your furbaby. Since it’s all natural, you can use this for cats of all ages.


Pros:

  • Veterinarian approved
  • Has a soothing effect on your cat’s stomach
  • Comes in liquid form
  • Made from natural ingredients

Cons:

  • Has a strong scent

Pro-labs Feline Tapeworm Tabs

 

What kills the tapeworms in your cat’s body when you give them this is the active ingredient, praziquantel. Pro-labs Feline tapeworm tabs come in just the right size so you can easily give them to your cat or mix them with their food. It is FDA-approved and safe to use that you can buy it over the counter.


Pros:

  • Contains praziquantel
  • Comes in easy to administer tablets
  • Approved by the FDA
  • Affordable

Cons:

  • For removal of tapeworms only

Excel Liquid Roundworm Dewormer

 

This cat Excel Liquid Roundworm Dewormer works fast to treat your cat from roundworm infections. It comes in a liquid form that has a taste that your cat is sure to love. It effectively stuns the worms so they can easily pass through the cat’s system and then eventually be removed via the cat’s stool.


Pros:

  • Contains piperazine base as piperazine citrate
  • Comes with a child-resistant cap
  • Has a vanilla flavor
  • Has an affordable price

Cons:

  • Only removes roundworms

Factors to Consider When Buying the Best Dewormer for Cats

 

Types of Worms

It is important to know what type of worm your cat has so you can get the correct treatment for it. There are three types of worms that commonly infect cats; these are roundworms, tapeworms, and hookworms. Most dewormers come in formulations that target a specific type of worm so knowing what type of worm your cat has is very important.

You may have to get a fecal test analyzed by your vet, or you may opt for dewormers that can treat multiple types of worms. As with any treatment we humans take, it is a good idea to consult your veterinarian to get an informed decision on what the best dewormer is for your cat.

 

The Right Dosage

Many dewormers provide the recommended dosage for different ages and weights of cats, so be sure to check the label to give you an idea. An overdose is something that you wouldn’t want to happen to your furbaby, so if in doubt, consult your veterinarian. You shouldn’t be second-guessing when it comes to administering drugs.

 

Effectiveness

Once you know what type of worm your cat has, you need to look for the one that would work well with your cat. There are many options out there, and a vet will know exactly what your cat needs. But if it is a recurring infection (hopefully not), you already know what to get

Although all of the dewormers we listed above are safe, it is also worth checking the ingredients of a one, so you will know what it contains and then check if they are safe for your cats. There some that use all natural ingredients, you may want to choose these if you have doubts. You may even try and experiment with brands, but we highly recommend going for those with trusted names and reputation for reliability.

 

Cost

Of course, money is no object when it’s our furbaby’s life that’s on the line. However, if you are going to do regular deworming sessions, which is highly recommended, you may want to choose something that would not break the bank.

 

Conclusion

This list we compiled includes the best dewormer for cats available on the market, and among them, we love Durvet Safeguard Goat Dewormer. It can eliminate a wide variety of worm types and can be used on dogs as well, a bonus if you have both dogs and cats. If you plan on doing some deworming at home without help from your vet, this is the way to go.

Again, we recommend consulting your veterinarian before trying out any sort of medication to your pets.

 

 

Best Cat Food to Gain Weight with High Calories

Cats can really be picky eaters. When they do not find their food enticing enough, they simply will not eat. However, cat owners should know that underweight cats face a higher risk of serious health problems. That being said, helping your cat gain weight is very important. And this can be done by changing their diet and including the best weight gain cat food.

Choosing food high in protein is usually the best option. A change in feeding habit also helps. Here are some of the best cat food brands that can help them gain those extra pounds that could spell the difference between health and mere survival.

IAMS Grain Free Naturals Adult

IAMS Grain Free Naturals Adult cat food is popular for a reason. It boasts of a hefty 473 kcal per cup. Its minimum protein content is 33% and fat content at 15%. It is made from high-quality ingredients like chicken and salmon.

It also contains high-value ingredients such as cranberries which is good for the urinary tract and menhaden oil which is good source of omega fatty acids. It is also fortified with vitamins like B1, B2, B6, D, and E. Make sure you check and follow the recommended portion sizes that are specific to your pet’s needs.

But just like other dry foods, this has very low moisture content, predisposing cats to potential urinary tract problems. To avoid, make sure your cat drinks lots of water. Also, you can alternate dry and wet food.

Now, the only thing you have to worry about now is where to buy this as stores easily run out of stocks.


Pros:

  • Does not contain grains, a common cat allergen
  • Made from high-quality, high-value ingredients
  • Fortified with vitamin supplements
  • Contains cranberries and menhaden oil

Cons:

  • Low moisture content
  • Does not contain pro-biotic

Origen Cat and Kitten Food

Rest assured you would get the protein you need with Origen. The Origen Cat and Kitten Food is made with fresh regional ingredients like free-range chicken and turkey, wild-caught fish, and nest-laid eggs.

It can provide a huge 463 kcal per 8 oz. cap. It contains 39% protein, 19% vegetable, and 42% fat. The numbers speak for itself. This is really one of the best cat foods for weight gain in the market today.


Pros:

  • No grains
  • Ingredients are similar to what a cat would eat in the wild
  • Easy to eat and digest

Cons:

  • Dry food

Purina ONE Tender Selects Blend

This Purina ONE Tender Selects Blend cat food veterinarian-recommended contains a specially blended formula to support your feline’s overall health. It is packed with Omega-6 fatty acids to promote healthy skin and shiny, vibrant coat. It is also made from real chicken, providing high protein content. This cat food guarantees to have everything you need. It contains several vitamins like A, B12, D3, zinc, taurine, and calcium.

While it is not the bulkiest available, Purina offers 396 kcal per cup. It has a crude fat of 34% and protein at 30%.


Pros:

  • Mixed with soft meaty morsels
  • Crunchy kibble
  • Good amount of moisture
  • Available in different flavors

Cons:

  • Has soy and grains, which are potential allergens
  • Contains artificial coloring

Blue Wilderness High Protein Dry Cat Food

Blue Wilderness is packed with protein and sweet potatoes, which are healthy sources of carbohydrates, respectively. It helps support muscle growth and development and boost the immune system. But most importantly, it promotes a well-balanced weight gain between protein and fat.

A cup of Blue Wilderness provides a huge 447 kcal. This dry food also comes with BLUE’s ‘LifeSource Bits,’ which are a combination of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Blue Wilderness does not contain any artificial preservatives, poultry by-products, and other cat allergens like soy, wheat, and corn.


Pros:

  • Does not contain cat allergens
  • With BLUE’s ‘LifeSource Bits’

Cons:

  • Dry food, without moisture
  • Not organic, but natural

Natural Balance Limited Ingredient

Natural Balance is a well-loved brand by fur parents. This is guaranteed to be grain-free. It contains prebiotic fiber to aid in digestion. It contains no artificial flavors and colors too.

Natural Balance comes in several flavors including Salmon and Chickpea, and Turkey and Chickpea. Both come with the best quality of ingredients. The Salmon formula has a high protein and the highest calorie content at 410 kcal per cup.


Pros:

  • Grain-free
  • With prebiotic fiber
  • Helps prevent hairballs

Cons:

  • Quite expensive
  • Geared for indoor cats only

Wellness CORE Natural Grain Free Dry Cat Food

If you are looking for cat food packed with a high concentration of animal protein, nutrient-rich foods, and supplements, then this is the one for you. Wellness Core contains added glucosamine hydrochloride and chondroitin sulfate, which are both good for joint support. All kibbles are guaranteed to contain premium, all-natural ingredients.

This cat food does not contain any potential allergens too like wheat, corn, soy, and meat by-products. It also has zero artificial ingredients, flavors, and preservatives. This cat food is rich in anti-oxidants and Omega-3 fatty acids too.

This dry food sure is a good solution for your skinny kitty as it offers a hefty 502 kcal per cup.


Pros:

  • Does not contain common cat allergen
  • Contains probiotics

Cons:

  • Made more for indoor cats

HALO Spot’s Ground Chicken Pate Food

This Halo Holistic Natural Wet Cat Food is recommended for senior cats, although it also works on younger cats and kittens. The food is guaranteed to be made from a real whole chicken blend. Yes, no rendered meat like chicken by-products, fillers, grains or whatsoever. It has well-balanced nutrition and is easily digestible too. Other than the meat, this contains real, non-genetically modified carrot and spinach too.

Giving 202 kcal per 5.5 oz. can, your feline will surely get that extra pound. The protein it gives is really not that much. That is why combining this with any of the dry food above is suggested.

All its cans are BPA-free as well.


Pros:

  • No artificial flavorings or colorings
  • Packed with added vitamins and minerals like biotin and taurine
  • Made with real whole chicken
  • No rendered meat

Cons:

  • Needs gradual introduction of food
  • Contains salt

Conclusion

While there is no shortage of cat food options in the market, it is imperative that you do your research first. Knowing which ingredients to go for will save you a world of money and time, wasting neither when you narrow down your options to the brands that offer the best quality and health benefits for your pets.

 

 

What is the Smartest Cat Breed? Check Out These 7 Smarty Cats

Cats may have a reputation for being aloof and lazy, but cat owners know one fact: that their feline partners are really smart.

Cats are great at figuring things out for themselves. They are great explorers, naturally curious and good at making a toy out of anything. Cats are able to entertain themselves and they are really great at finding out how to get to new areas.

It is certain that all cats are smart, yet there are some that are a little bit more than other breeds. We all want to say that we have the most intelligent cats around, however there is a universal consensus that there are some breeds smarter than others.

Here are some of the smartest cat breeds in the world:

1. Abyssinian Cat

Abyssinian Cats are very confident in themselves and they have this air of superiority about them. Resembling the ancient cats of Egypt, The Aby has a distinctive sleek profile, with almond-shaped eyes and large ears.

They are one of the breeds that learn to play fetch with objects and will really love doing it. Also, they have an excellent memory— they will know where you hide their toys and how to open doors. Abyssinian cats are great at climbing and jumping. If you do not have a ceiling-high cat tree, they will make one for themselves out of your curtain, bookcase or anything less they can scale to the heavens.

These cats are also curious felines. If anything has your attention they will try to take it and investigate. Moreover, like any other cats, Abyssinians love to the center of your world and needs constant stimulation.

 

2. Siamese Cat

Remember the twin mischief cats Si and Am from the second movie of Disney’s Lady and the Tramp? Yes, they are Siamese cats!

These cats are really loud and love to chat with their owners. And like the twin characters in the movie, Siamese cats are really sassy and forever getting into mischief with their inquisitive nature that makes them want to explore every nook and cranny.

They love to follow you around, watching you with curious eyes while being talkative and social. Because they are smart, Siamese get bored if their brains are not stimulated. That is why you need to keep them entertained or they will find something to entertain themselves. They crave for attention the most, and they will wail and meow to let you know they are bored. So if you want to keep your sanity then you better give them what they want.

 

3. Burmese Cat

Burmese inherited their intelligence from their ancestors Siamese. They also love to talk, however, they are not as loud as the Siamese. Burmese cats are usually described as having a dog-like personality because of their love of human interaction.  They easily get attached to people, so it is best not to leave them alone. They are highly sociable cats and can interact well with dogs or children.

They love to learn new tricks and would be very happy to show off to your friends. They can learn to fetch, roll over, sit or even walk on a leash. Burmese cats love to explore and they will definitely know your house better than you.They can be really demanding, especially the females, and will continue to follow you unless you give them the attention they want.

 

4. Scottish Fold Cat

The Scottish Fold’s pixie-like expression and endearing “teddy bear” ears are features that will instantly charm those who meet this adorable and intelligent breed. Adaptable and confident, Scottish folds are a quick learner that will walk on a leash and fetch balls without expecting a treat for a reward.

They enjoy toys that test their mental capacities like puzzle or teaser toys. They love being around people and thrive for their owner’s attention. They love doing stuff with people and will demand a game or two out of you to satisfy their boredom. They can even join you to watch movies and will pay attention to what is on the screen.

 

5. Persian Cat

With big gentle eyes and a luxurious coat, Persians are always a show-stopping breed that enjoys our admiration. These cats have an elegant aura surrounding themselves and seem to know how gorgeous they are.

Displaying a dignified and calm presence, Persians are very responsive to learning, particularly with the word “no”. Cautious and sensitive, they hate loud or harsh noise. And if there is an open door to the outside, Persians will not dart out like most cats would, instead they will take a peek first to check for any signs of danger before going out.

They are sometimes described as “quite communicators”. They will wait for a sign from their owners that it is okay to sit or cuddle with them.

 

6. Bengal Cat

Bengals are leopard-like beauties which are highly sought-after. And why not? Their looks, personality, and intelligence are really amazing. Bengals are good at learning tricks. Also, they are dexterous paws which can be a real headache for some owners. They have this reputation of playing with electronics, turning off light switches and causing mischief.

Unlike most cats, Bengals just love the water and will follow you to the shower or tub if they can. However, this can be a nightmare for fishes in backyard ponds or aquariums. They are highly sociable felines that often “talks” with their chirpy meows. Like their leopard ancestors, Bengals also love to jump and climb to explore their surrounding, so you might need a cat tree if you do not want your curtains destroyed.

 

7. Cornish Rex

Cornish Rex is a uniquely-styled and fun-loving breed. They have soaring energy and will always look for activity with people, dogs, and other cats. It is a very intelligent breed regarded for its unique curiosity.

Cornish Rex will explore every inch of your house if you let them climbing into washing machines, jumping on top of refrigerators, cabinets and the like. They have exceptional communications skills and is confident and adaptable to new surroundings.