Caesar’s dog food is a popular brand that is sold in many grocery stores and pet supply stores. As is the case with many dog foods sold in grocery stores, Ceasar’s dog food is quite lacking.

Caesar’s dog food is available in more than dozen varieties. Most of them are for adult dogs, but there is one variety for puppies and one for seniors. Caesar’s also sells a line of dog treats.

Caesar’s Dog Food Ratings

While this dog food does not usually earn the lowest ratings, it comes pretty close. While the food does contain a substantial amount of meat and is high in protein, it is the source of the meat that is the biggest problem. There are other issues as well.

·        Meat By Products – Just because Caesar’s dog food has a meat source, doesn’t mean it is a quality source. Most of the meat found in this dog food is actually by products. That means it could be from a number of unappetizing sources such as the waste from slaughterhouses, pets that have been euthanized or even road kill.

·        Artificial Coloring – The use of artificial coloring will always cause a dog food to score lower ratings.

·        Sodium Nitrite – Sodium nitrate is a preservative that has been linked to the production of a cancer causing agent.

Caesar’s Dog Food Coupons

Caesar’s dog food is quite inexpensive. Because it is packaged only in small servings, it does cost more than some other grocery store brands. Caesar’s dog food coupons are quite common and can often be found in the Sunday paper or on many popular printable coupon Web sites.

Caesar’s Dog Food Commercial

One good thing about Ceasar’s dog food is the commercials. Many people inquire about the fluffy white dog that scampers excitedly to his bowl to eat his Caesar’s dog food. The dog is a West Highland White Terrier and, truth be told, it is not likely that the owner of such a purebred dog would want to feed their pet Caesar’s dog food.

So, should you feed Caesar’s dog food to your pet? It is not the best choice, but it’s not the worst choice either. The food does provide adequate levels of protein, carbohydrates and fat, even though the ingredients used to make the food are not very good quality.

Consumers typically say that their dogs enjoy the food, even those pets that are somewhat finicky. Some consumers also like the fact that the food is very easy to find and that it is not terribly expensive.

As mentioned above, the food is marketed for small dogs and is only sold in small portions, so this food would not be a good choice for a larger pet.

Medi Cal dog foods are a line of products, each marketed as being designed to help with various pet health problems.  Whether or not feeding these foods can actually help your pet is a matter of contention, but some vets do endorse some of the formulas.

Medi Cal Dog Food: Formulas

As you begin to read about Medi Cal dog food, one of the first things that may strike you is the sheer number of formulas that are available. The company that makes the food, Royal Canin which is owned by Mars, Inc., calls it “therapeutic” dog food. While no promises of improved health are explicitly made by the company, that is what seems to be implied both by the marketing materials and the very names of some of the pet foods. Below is a list of some of the Medi Cal dog food formulas.

• Calorie Control
• Hepatic
• Renal
• Dental
• Gastrointestinal
• Mobility Support
• Urinary
• Cardiac
• Reduced Protein
• Satiety
• Skin Support
• Urinary

Vegetarian dog foods are also available as part of the Medi Cal line. Most of the formulas are available in both wet and dry foods.

Medi Cal Dog Food: Reviews

The reviews for Medi Cal dog food are mixed. While each formula is different, many are quite heavy in carbohydrates. They also contain ingredients that are known to cause allergies, such as corn, wheat and soy.

In some cases, such as in the low-protein formulas, a high carb count would make sense, but it is important to evaluate each of these dog food formulas on their own merit rather than trying to review them all as a group.

While the food does not score the highest marks in reviews, it has not been part of any of the dog food recalls that shook the industry over the past several years.

Medi Cal Dog Food: Where to Buy

Most of the Medi Cal dog food formulas can only be purchased through your vet’s office. Royal Canin, the company that makes the food, does have another line of dog foods that can be purchased at pet supply stores, but they do not use the Medi Cal name.

As mentioned above, the food has garnered mixed reviews, so not every vet will be quick to offer this food. Still, there are many that may suggest it as one part of helping your dog achieve the best possible health.

Medi Cal is not the only brand of therapeutic dog foods on the market. There are other foods that require a prescription to purchase. It can be difficult to determine what is best for your pet, especially if the dog has some sort of medical condition. That is why you need to talk to your vet to get the best advice about whether Medi Cal Dog food is right for your dog.

Unlike many of the other dog foods discussed on this site, this one is only available with a prescription from your vet. That is because the food, which is made by Hill’s Science Diet, was specially formulated for dogs with kidney failure.

Hill’s Science Diet also has many other formulas intended to be given to dogs with certain medical ailments.

While the food is prescribed by many vets, some warn that the food is not of the highest quality. The Hill’s brands in general do not typically earn the highest marks in reviews. In fact, many of the formulas, including some prescription formulas, score quite low because of the inclusion of controversial ingredients and lack of high quality meat.

If your vet does prescribe KD dog food, be sure to discuss your concerns about the quality if you have any such trepidation about feeding this brand to your pet.

KD Dog Food: When to Use

The only time that you should ever give your pet KD dog food is when it is prescribed by your vet. The food does not contain proper nutrition for a healthy dog, and is only intended for use by dogs with kidney disease.

It is not even for all dogs with kidney failure. As with any prescription, it should only be used as directed by your vet.

KD Dog Food: Where to Buy

KD dog food is usually available from three places.

• Vet’s Office – You can usually buy this food from the vet’s office that prescribed it.
• National Chains – It is often also available at large national pet supply chains, such as Petco and PetSmart. You will still need a prescription to purchase the food and the stores are not allowed to sell it to you without one. If you do not have a written prescription, the store may be able to call the vet to confirm that you do, in fact, have a prescription for KD dog food.
• Online – You may also be able to buy the food from an online retailer that specializes in pet medications. If you choose to purchase the food in this manner, they will likely need to call your vet to confirm the prescription.

KD Dog Food: Cost

Because the food is only available with a prescription, it does cost a bit more than some other foods. It is not even close to being the most expensive dog food, however, and that includes both prescription and non-prescription foods.

Another alternative is to talk to your vet about feeding your dog with kidney disease a homemade diet. It is VERY important to talk to your vet before doing this because you will need to be absolutely certain that you are providing your dog with all of the nutrition that he or she needs.

4 Health dog food is a quality choice for your pet. While it does not include the absolute best ingredients, it does use whole meats and vegetables and leaves out any seriously controversial ingredients.

The first ingredient is a named meat source and the second is a meal, such as chicken meal. Chicken meal contains much more protein than whole chicken, so it is a wonderful addition to the food.

While 4 Health does not use human grade or all organic ingredients, the decision to use the types of ingredients that they use produce a very high quality food that is also affordable.

4 Health Dog Food Reviews

Most of the 4 Health dog food formulas earn very good ratings in expert reviews. Only one of the formulas – the Lamb and Rice – scores a bit lower than the others. The reason that the Lamb & Rice formulate gets lower marks is that it contains less meat and protein than the others.

As a whole the brand offers a content of about 30% protein, 16% fat and 46% carbohydrates.  These are good percentages that offer proper nutrition to your pet.

Consumer reviews of 4 Health dog foods are also generally positive. The food is very well priced for being of such a high quality. The only problem, for some consumers, is finding the food.

4 Health Dog Food Formulas

The makers of 4 Health dog food offer several formulas. In addition to the dry options that are listed below, 4 Health also comes in canned formulas. These wet foods are a good addition to the dry food.

• Chicken & Rice Formula – For adult dogs
• Lamb & Rice Formula – For adult dogs
• Puppy Formula – For puppies up to 12 months old
• Performance Formula – For active dogs
• Small Bites Formula – For dogs that prefer smaller kibble
• Large Breed Formula – For dogs that will have a healthy weight of  75 pounds or more

4 Health also comes in cat formulas for your feline family members.

4 Health Dog Food: Where to Buy

As mentioned above, the only real ding that 4 Health dog foods takes in consumer reviews is that it can be difficult to find. The only store that carries this line of pet food is Tractor Supply Company. If you do not have a Tractor Supply Company store near you, then you will not be able to buy this food. While Tractor Supply Company does have an online retail Web site, the food cannot be purchased through the site at this time.

Hopefully, in the near future, this will change so that you will be able to order 4 Health dog foods no matter where in the country you live.

Most pet owners understand that it is important to choose a quality food in order to help maintain the health of your pet. What many do not know, however, is how to compare dog foods to be sure that they are feeding their dog the best possible option.

Finding the Best Dog Food for Your Pet

Before looking at how to understand dog food reviews, let’s look at the type of information that you should not put much stock in when comparing dog foods.
1.   Consumer Reviews – A consumer review is one that is written by the user of a product rather than an expert. While these should not carry as much weight as a review by an expert, you can consider some opinions when making your decision.

2.   Marketing Materials – This type of “review” should not be part of your decision making process. The reason is simple: These are written by professional copywriters to show their products in the best possible light.

There is nothing wrong with that, but such materials are hardly the type of unbiased reviews that you need to make an informed decision.

Understanding Dog Food Reviews

One of the best ways to compare dog foods is to find unbiased reviews that break down the ingredients and nutritional content of each food that you are considering.

• Ingredients – The quality of the ingredients used are one of the most important considerations. Even if a food has plenty of protein and carbs, if it is made with very poor quality ingredients, such as meat byproducts, it is not going to be the best choice.
• Nutritional Content – The nutritional content is another important consideration. For each stage of your dog’s life, there are minimum requirements that must be met in terms of protein, carbohydrates and fat. Also, the inclusion of added minerals, omega 3s and other health boosters only add to the overall rating of the food.
• Controversial Ingredients – If the food contains controversial ingredients, such as meat byproducts, chemical preservatives or artificial colors that will, obviously, detract from the overall quality of the food. Some ingredients that are considered controversial are less questionable than others so it is important to become familiar with ingredients used in dog food.
• Organic – To some pet owners, only the best will do including the use of organic and human grade foods. Dog foods that use such ingredients will score better in dog food reviews.

Is There One “Best” Dog Food?

As you go about the task of comparing dog foods, keep one thing in mind: There is no one food that is the absolute best. The food that is right for your pet depends on many factors such as cost, the age and health of your pet and others.

There are many quality brands. After you compare dog foods, you will be ready to make the best decision for your pet.

Ringworm on cats is one of the most common fungal infections that your feline friend may endure. While the name implies that it is a worm, it is not. Instead, it is a fungus that causes an infection in the skin.

The good news is that ringworm on cats is usually easy to treat. The bad news is that if your pet is diagnosed with ringworm, you will also have to treat all other pets in your home and the environment around your cat.

While any cat can get ringworm, some cats are more susceptible to ringworm than others.

• Young Cats – Cats that are less than one year old are more likely to get ringworm.
• Compromised  Immune Systems – Cats that have a compromised immune system for any reason have a higher chance of getting ringworm.
• Stress – If your cat is under a lot of stress, that makes them more susceptible to ringworm.
• Long Hair – Long haired cats have a higher incidence of ringworm than do short hair cats.

Ringworm on Cats: Symptoms

Ringworm on cats will usually present as round bald patches. Most often, they will appear around the head of the cat, but this is not always that case. Often, cats will be itchy and you may notice what appears to be dandruff.

The Webmd cats section has pictures of ringworm, so you can get an idea of what this type of rash on a cat looks like.

To be sure that your cat does in fact have ringworm, your vet may do one of a few possible tests including looking at a sample under a microscope, taking a culture or even performing a biopsy.

Ringworms on Cats: Treatments

The treatments for most incidents of ringworm are quite simple. Possible treatments include the use of medicated shampoos or dips. In some cases your vet may recommend an antifungal medication. There is also a vaccination for ringworm that may help to prevent future infections.

You will also need to treat the bedding and any spaces in which your cat spends time. You also need to treat other cats and dogs in your home.

It is very easy for ringworm to get passed between cats, dogs and humans. Treating other animals and the surfaces in your home will lessen the chance for reinfection.

Ringworm on Humans

As mentioned above, it is possible for a cat to pass ringworm to humans. Thankfully, ringworm in humans is not serious, but you should consult your doctor if you think that you have ringworm. The symptoms of ringworm in humans are very similar to the symptoms that appear in ringworm in cats. Look for a round rash that can occur anywhere on the body.

Treating ringworm on cats at the very first sign can help to prevent its spread.

Natural Balance dog food reviews are typically quite favorable, but – as with any brand of dog food – you must look at each formula of the dog food individually. While none of the Natural Balance foods score the absolute highest marks, most of them do come pretty close.

One exception is their reduced calorie formula, which scores a bit lower than their other formulas.

Natural Balance Dog Food Reviews

The reason that the foods take a bit of a hit in reviews is the use of a few ingredients that are considered by some to be questionable. Those ingredients are:

• Tomato Pomace – This is a byproduct of tomato processing.
• Brewer’s Yeast – As with the other ingredients on this list, some view it as a quality ingredient, while others do not.
• Canola Oil – Most agree this is a healthy fat, but there are a few that question its use in pet foods.

That being said, the ingredients in question are not harmful, but instead are considered by some to be useless fillers. Others maintain that these ingredients, such as tomato pomace, do provide nutritional benefit. The experts do not agree, but be assured that such ingredients only detract slightly from the quality of the food.

That means that you can feed your pet Natural Balance dog food with the assurance that they will be getting quality ingredients that include all of the required nutrition.

Where to Buy Natural Balance Dog Food

Natural Balance dog foods are quite easy to find. They are sold at many national pet food supply stores, such as Petco. Natural Balance dog foods can also be found at many smaller pet boutiques and some vet’s offices.

Another option is to buy the products online. If you live in an area where you do not have a retailer near you that carries Natural Balance dog food, just visit one of the many online retailers and you can have the products shipped right to your door. Of course, you will have to pay extra for shipping, but you may be able to find offers of free shipping (see section below) which will eliminate this extra expense.

Natural Balance Dog Food Coupons

Because Natural Balance is quite a high quality brand, it is not typical to find coupons in the usual places, such as home mailers or the Sunday paper. Instead, Natural Balance dog food coupons may be found on the company’s Web site and, from time to time, in in-store promotions.

Natural Balance Dog Food: Free Shipping

Another way to save a bit of money when buying Natural Balance dog food is to find offers for free shipping. Different online retailers will have Natural Balance dog food free shipping offers from time to time, so you may have to check a few sites. Some will require a coupon code while others will automatically apply the offer of free shipping if you purchase a certain dollar amount worth of products.

The convenience of having the dog food shipped to your door is a big plus. This is especially true if you have trouble lugging large, heavy bags.

Natural Balance dog food is a solid choice for your pet.

Chudley’s dog food is a mid-quality brand that is manufactured in the UK and sold in several countries around the world. While they have the distinction of having a Royal Warrant, which means that they have supplied the queen with products for at least five years, many of the Chudley’s dog food products are not of the highest possible quality.

Chudley’s Dog Food Reviews

Chudley’s dog food comes in many formulas and each is reviewed on its own merit. Some of the foods do better in reviews than others, but none of them score top marks.

The main reason for the lower scores is the use of fillers and the lack of a sufficient amount of meat. On the plus side, the foods do use a named meat source and provide adequate protein, carbohydrates and fat.

The dogs needs will be met, but it is important to consider that, since the food contains fillers, the dog will also be eating unnecessary ingredients and may not absorb the food as readily as he may if the ingredients were of a higher quality.

Chudley’s Dog Food Formulas

Chudley’s dog food comes in many formulas. Each is designed to meet the needs of dogs based on life stage and activity level. Below are some of the available formulas.

• Working Crunch – This food is for use during the times of year that the dog is working.
• Performance – This food is specially formulated to meet the needs of the hardest working dogs.
• Puppy – This is for puppies up to three months old.
• Junior – This food is for dogs three to six months old.
• Senior – A special formula to meet the needs of aging dogs.
• Supreme – The food is for adult dogs.
• Greyhound Maintenance – For greyhounds in the off-season.
• Greyhound Racer –This is for use during racing season.

Chudley’s also has starter milk for puppies that cannot get milk from their mothers, as well as special formulas for very small dogs, very large dogs or dogs that need to lose a few pounds.

Chudley’s also offers a popular line of horse feed, which is used by the queen’s stables.

Chudley’s Dog Food: A Good Choice?

Each formula needs to be judged on its own rather than as a hole. Still, generally speaking, this food is not the absolute best choice available, but it is not the worst.

While the ingredients used to make Chudley’s dog food may not be ideal, the food does provide adequate nutrition.

For those living in countries where this food is sold, it is readily available at pet supply stores and some boutiques To find a store near you that carries Chudley’s dog food, visit their Web site.

Many pet owners have embraced the idea of trying to feed their dog a diet that is very similar to what the animal would eat in the wild. Primal dog food is a brand that makes it easy to feed a raw, high quality diet that closely mimics what a dog would naturally eat.

This raw dog food is not only remarkable in that it mimics the natural diet of dogs but in the extremely high quality of the ingredients that are used. All of the ingredients are human grade, which means that they are just as suitable for human consumption as they are for your pet.

Primal Dog Food Review

Knowing the quality of ingredients used in Primal dog food, it is not surprising the food consistently scores the highest possible ratings in dog food reviews.

The food does not contain grain, fillers or any other controversial ingredient. In fact, the ingredients label looks like a shopping list for your family dinner might and includes quality meat and organic produce. The makers have also added sources of Omega 3s, giving the food even more points with reviewers.

As mentioned above, the produce is organic and all of the meat used is steroid, antibiotic and hormone free which means it is of an even higher quality than what many people eat.

Where to Buy Primal Dog Food

Primal dog food comes frozen. For this reason, there were obvious issues with distribution when the food was first introduced. Stores had to make room for freezer space and many wondered if their customers would warm to the idea of a frozen raw diet for their pets.

As the idea of a natural diet for dogs became more popular, more and more stores began selling Primal dog food. It is now quite common to see a freezer in the dog food section of many pet supply stores. The food is also sold at several smaller pet boutiques.

If you cannot find the food near you, it can be ordered online from several online retailers.

Other Raw Dog Food Brands

Primal dog food is not the only dog food manufacturer that offers a raw diet.

• Oma’s Pride Dog Food – In addition to the more expected offering of beef and chicken, Oma’s Pride also has a line of raw exotic choices such as kangaroo, llama, ostrich and yak.
• The Honest Kitchen Dog Food – This food is not made in a huge plant, but in kitchens approved for the preparation of human foods. Honest Kitchen dog food, which gets very high ratings in dog food reviews, is sold in dehydrated form.
• Bravo Dog Food – This food is very similar to Primal dog food in that it is sold in raw, frozen form. There are only three flavors available, but they are of the highest quality and get the best possible marks from reviewers.

Great Life dog food is a quality brand that features the finest ingredients and scores quite well in dog food reviews.

When choosing a dog food for your pet, it is a good idea to read some of the reviews that have been done by experts. While the dog food manufacturer’s Web site is one source of information, keep in mind that the content there was likely written by marketing people and will omit any negative aspects of the food.

With that in mind, you can rest assured that Great Life dog food does do well in both expert and consumer reviews.

Great Life Dog Food Reviews

When scoring a dog food, reviewers consider several factors.

• Quality of Ingredients – The ingredients should be from named, whole sources. The highest scoring dog foods will not include corn, as this can cause allergies in many dogs. It is a plus if the ingredients are human grade, free range or organic.
• Vitamins – Ideally, the food will include sources omega 3s and vitamin sources that are important to the health of dogs.
• Inclusion of Controversial Ingredients – Meat byproducts, artificial colors or flavors and other controversial ingredients will lower the rating of any dog food.
• Nutritional Content – The levels of carbohydrates, protein and fat must be within acceptable levels.

Great Life dog food scores very high marks in reviews. This is thanks to the quality of the ingredients that are used as well as the lack of any controversial ingredients.

Consumer reviews are also favorable. The only problem is that some have trouble finding the food in a store near them.

Great Life Dog Food Varieties

Great Life dog food comes in both dry and canned formulas and in a variety of flavors. There are grain-free and organic options as well as those that use meat outside of the normal choices, such as buffalo.

In addition to foods, the company also has a line of high quality dog treats, such as veggie biscuits and freeze-dried liver.

Where to Buy Great Life Dog Food

As mentioned above, some consumers have had trouble finding Great Life dog food in a store near them. That is, in part, because the food is not sold at national dog supply chains. Instead, it is distributed through small, independent pet supply boutiques as well as some vet’s offices.

There are many locations throughout the country with no supplier within driving distance.

The food can, however, be purchased online through the manufacturer’s Web site. Of course, the food is already on the high priced end and when you have to add the additional cost for shipping, some consumers just opt for another brand.

If you can’t find the product near you at this time, keep checking back as more suppliers are being added all the time.

Taste of the Wild dog food is a high quality kibble that tries to include many ingredients that a dog would eat in the wild. All of the Taste of the Wild dry dog food formulas are grain-free and include the proper nutrition for all life stages.

Taste of the Wild Dog Food Review

Taste of the Wild dog food reviews are typically very favorable. Even in reviews that look at each ingredient, this dog food can stand the test, usually earning top scores.

One reason that the food does so well is the use of quality ingredients. As important as what goes into this food is what is left out. There are no chemical preservatives, meat byproducts, artificial colorings or other questionable ingredients.

The only ingredient that may raise an eyebrow is tomato pomace. Tomato pomace is a byproduct that is left after tomatoes are processed. Some say that this is a quality ingredient with high fiber. Others say it is nothing more than filler.

In addition to the quality ingredients, makers of Taste of the Wild also add Omega 3’s and others nutrition boosters.

Grain Free Dog Food

Some pet owners wonder if a grain-free diet is really superior. While most experts do not consider grain to be harmful, some dogs are a bit sensitive or allergic to it. Some pet owners will not even know that their dog has a grain allergy and will continue feeding it for years while the dog endures symptoms such as itchy skin or digestive troubles.

In the wild, grain would not be part of a dog’s diet, so it is not a necessary ingredient in commercial dog foods. Some feel that a grain-free diet is a closer match with what a dog would eat in a natural setting.

If you do feed a dog food that includes grain, and have noticed any symptoms in your pet, consider talking to the vet about the possibility of your dog having a grain allergy.

Taste of the Wild Dog Food Formulas

Taste of the Wild offers four dry dog food formulas.

• High Prairie Canine – This food is a combination of roasted meat, such as chicken, bison and venison along with fruits and vegetables.
• Pacific Stream Canine – Smoke salmon provides the protein in this dry dog food formula.
• Sierra Mountain Canine – Roasted lamb and fiber rich sweet potatoes are just two of the ingredients in this food.
• Wetlands Canine – A variety of fowl – both roasted and smoked – are used in Wetlands Canine formula.

They also offer three canned formulas that can be fed along with the dry formulas or, if you prefer, alone.

Taste of the Wild is a quality choice for your four-legged family members.

If your dog has a sensitive stomach, you will need to find a food that will help to ease his or her digestion. Many brands offer dog food for sensitive stomachs, but because each dog may have a different trigger food, you may need to do a little trial and error before finding the best food for your pet.

Dog Food for Sensitive Digestive Systems

As mentioned above, there are a number of dog food manufacturers that offer a dog food for sensitive stomachs. These include:

• Iams dog food
• California Natural dog food
• Natural Balance dog food
• Purina dog food

Keep in mind that each of these brands offers a formula that was developed for sensitive stomachs. It does not mean that all of their products are for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Also, not all dog food for sensitive digestive systems will work for every dog. It may take some time to pinpoint the exact ingredients that bother your pet.

Homemade Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs

Instead of buying commercial dog food, consider the use of homemade dog food for sensitive stomachs. It is not difficult to prepare such meals, but some find them to cost a bit more than commercial dog food. Also, even though the preparation is quite simple, some pet owners do not want to take on the task of preparing their pet’s meals.

Many recipes for such homemade dog food can be found online, but it is a good idea to check with your vet, especially if you have never provided homemade dog food before. If you do decided to make the switch from commercial to homemade dog food, you will need to make a gradual transition in order to reduce the chances of causing even further digestive difficulties.

Dog Food for Sensitive Stomach: Other Tips

Below are some additional things to keep in mind when dealing with a dog with a sensitive stomach.

• Smaller Meals – Sometimes, feeding your dog several smaller meals, rather than two larger meals, can help with sensitive stomach.
• Common Allergens – While your pet’s sensitive stomach could be caused by any number of ingredients, two of the most common problem foods are corn and wheat. Make these the first ingredients that you eliminate when searching for the culprit.
• No Table Scraps – While it can be difficult to resist your dog’s pleading eyes, avoid giving your pet with a sensitive stomach any table scraps. There is a good chance that it will make the problem worse.
• Raise the Dish – Another quick and easy way to ease your dog’s digestive problems is to raise the height of his or her food dish. Sometimes, the problem is caused by the angle at which the dog is forced to eat.
• See a Vet – If symptoms come on very suddenly or are severe, you should visit your vet. It is always better to be safe than sorry, especially when it comes to the health of your pet.

Blackwood dog food is made by a family run business that has been in operation for a bit over a decade. While their Web site says that they use only the highest quality ingredients, there are a couple of items that are considered controversial.

The jury is still out on those items – some vets feel that they are perfectly acceptable – and expert reviewers consider this to be a quality food.

Blackwood Dog Food Reviews

While Blackwood dog food does not get the highest possible marks in reviews, most of their products come pretty close. The food meets the nutritional needs of dogs with an average of 30% protein, 21% fat and 42% carbohydrates. Most of the ingredients used are of a high quality.

One of the reasons that the food does not get the highest marks is, as mentioned above, the inclusion of some ingredients that are considered to be a bit controversial.

• Brewer’s Dried Yeast – This item is high in protein, but it is controversial because some dogs are allergic. If your dog is not allergic then this ingredient is fine.
• Garlic – Some studies have linked garlic to a certain type of anemia. Still, most vets say that in small amounts, garlic is fine.
• Ground Corn – This ingredient is not necessarily bad, but many dogs are allergic. For that reason, the highest quality foods tend to leave it out of their products.

Blackwood Dog Food Distributors

Blackwood dog food distributors are made up of small pet boutiques and feed stores. National pet supply chains do not carry these products at this time. For some consumers, it can be difficult to find Blackwood dog food. If there is no distributor near you (you can check on Blackwood’s Web site by simply entering your zip code) then you can order online. There are a number of online retailers that sell Blackwood products.

You can also ask pet boutiques near you to start carrying Blackwood products.

Blackwood Dog Food: The Bottom Line

For people who love their pets, the only thing that matters about a particular brand of dog food is whether it is a good choice for your pet. In the case of Blackwood dog food, it is a good choice.

While the ingredients are not of the absolute best quality, the food does contain adequate levels of nutrition. Also, probiotics and chelated minerals have been added to the food.

The food is grain based, but does contain a decent amount of meat. Also, there are no chemical preservatives, meat byproducts or artificial flavorings added to Blackwood dog food.

Blackwood dog food is a good choice. Whether you choose canned or dry formulas, you can rest assured that your pet is getting adequate nutrition.

Taste of the Wild dog food consistently gets high marks when reviewed. It is made with quality ingredients such as duck, chicken and fish. The dry protein is higher than average with 36%. Carbohydrates are a bit below average at 36%, showing that this is a food with a high meat content.

The only questionable ingredient is the tomato pomace. Some say that this is useless filler, while others say that it is a decent ingredient that provides a good amount of fiber.

There are no chemical preservatives, meat byproducts or other ingredients that are considered to be of a particularly low quality.

Taste of the Wild Dog Food Review: Consumers

Consumers also give positive Taste of the Wild dog food reviews.  Some mention that the food is not as easy to find as some other quality brands such as Diamond dog food. The product is, however, easily available online although you will have to pay a little more to cover the cost of shipping.

Some also mention that the cost is a bit higher than they would like, but those who buy the food are those who are willing to pay a bit more to provide their pet with a quality diet.

Taste of the Wild High Prairie and Other Formulas

Taste of the Wild offers six canine formulas as well as two feline formulas. The canine options are listed below.

·        High Prairie Canine Formula

·        High Prairie with Gravy Canine Formula

·        Pacific Stream Canine Formula

·        Pacific Stream with Gravy Canine Formula

·        Sierra Mountains Canine Formula

·        Wetlands Canine Formula

High Prairie Canine Formula is the newest addition to the line of Taste of the Wild dog foods. It is intended for dogs that are especially active and provides such dogs the extra nutrition that they need.

You may notice that there are no formulas for puppies or seniors. That is because the makers of Taste of the Wild say that their foods are appropriate for all life stages.

These foods do have a higher than average protein content, but you should check with your vet if you have questions about a food that claims to be appropriate for all of your dog’s life stages.

Taste of the Wild Dog Food Coupons

Taste of the Wild dog food is more costly than lesser quality products. If you would like to learn about specials and Taste of the Wild dog food coupons, visit their Web site. Sometimes, there are coupons available online. There are even giveaways from time to time where the company gives away bags of dog food to lucky winners.

The bottom line is that all of the Taste of the Wild canine formulas are a quality, nutritionally balanced choice for your pet.

No pet owner looks forward to having to use long term dog boarding to care for their pet. There are, however, sometimes circumstances that require such a move. Some of the reasons that one might use long term dog boarding include:

• Building or Remodeling a Home – If you have to rent while your home is built or rebuilt, such as may be the case after a fire or natural disaster, you may have no choice but to board your dog while the work is being done.
• Long Vacation – If you are going on an extended vacation, you many need to utilize a long term boarding service.
• Long Term  House Guest – If you are have a long term house guest that is allergic to pets, long term dog boarding may be necessary.

Long Term Dog Boarding: How to Choose

Keep in mind that not all long term dog boarding facilities are created equally. When looking for long term dog boarding in Chicago or long term dog boarding in Atlanta, you will have more choices than if you are looking in a smaller town. Still, it is important to do research so that you will know that you are leaving your pets in the best possible hands. Below are just some of the steps that you can take when choosing a long term dog boarding facility.

• Unannounced Visit - Don’t make an appointment for your first visit. Instead, come by unannounced. You want to see how the facility looks on a normal day, not when they are expecting a potential clients.
• References – Always ask for and check references from any long term dog boarding facility that you are considering.
• Better Business Bureau – A quick call to the Better Business Bureau will let you know if the facility has any complaints.
• Cleanliness – If the facility is very dirty, find another. If they do not care for their facility, they will probably not care for your pet.
• Staff – The staff should be friendly and helpful. Ideally, they will seem to take a genuine interest in the pets that they are caring for.
• Other Dogs – Are the other dogs in the facility clean and do they seem well-cared for? Are there water bowls full? Paying attention to the other dogs in a long term dog boarding facility can tell you a lot about the place.

Long Term Dog Boarding: What it Costs

The cost for long term dog boarding will vary based on where you are and what types of amenities are provided. Long term dog boarding in Los Angeles will likely cost more than long term dog boarding in Maryland simply because the cost of living is different in the two areas.

The best way to get a sense of the costs near you is to call some local facilities.

Long Term Dog Boarding: Other Options

Some pet owners are uncomfortable with the idea of long term boarding. There are other options.

One of the best is to hire someone to stay at your home while you are away. Also, some businesses offer a long term foster dog arrangement in which your dog will stay in someone’s home rather than a long term dog boarding facility.

Many dog owners want to feed their pets the best possible diet. With this in mind, they set out on a journey to find the best rated dog foods. While some dog foods certainly score higher in ratings than others, there is no one food that is best for all dogs.

Instead, the final decision must include not only facts about the dog food, such as ingredients and percentages of protein, fat and carbohydrates, but it must also include facts about the dog such as age, weight and activity level.

Best Rated Dog Foods: How to Choose

The best way to start your search for the best rated dog foods is to find quality reviews that have been completed by experts with no reason to promote one food over another.

Find ratings that include an analysis of ingredients rather than a general “this is great food” type of review.

In addition to reading reviews, you also need to do a little of your own research. Read up on how to understand dog food labels. If you can master this, then you will be able to know whether any dog food is of a high quality just by looking at the label.

If your dog is overweight, particularly active or a senior dog, it is a good idea to ask your vet for recommendation about which food may be best.

Best Rated Dog Foods: Cost

One myth about the best rated dog food brands is that they always have to cost the most. While most of the highest quality dog foods will cost more than grocery store brands, they are not always the most expensive.

If the cost of the food is a big consideration for you, then you will be happy to know that there are some reasonably priced options.

Also, you can’t look only at the price of the dog food. When you feed a high quality food, dogs will often eat less and, over time, this could even save you money.

Best Rated Dog Food Brands: A Few to Try

As stated above, there are many high quality, highly rated dog food brands on the market. In fact there are so many that it can be overwhelming to narrow down the list of which ones you want to try. Below are a few examples of very highly rated dog foods. This list is NOT all-inclusive, but it is a good place to start if you are looking for a very good quality food.

• Orijen
• Innova Evo
• Blue Dog Food
• Acana
• Solid Gold

Just because a brand is on the list, that doesn’t mean that all of their foods score the highest ratings. You will need to research each formula separately to be sure that you are feeding your pet one of the best rated dog foods.

Harrington’s dog food is a brand that is sold in the UK. The company has been in the pet food business for well over a hundred years and the third generation of the same family who founded the company continues to run it until this day.

Harrington’s Dog Food

Harrington’s dog food is a decent quality food that does not use any artificial colors or flavors. There is no soy, wheat gluten or dairy in any of their products. Also, antioxidants are added to every formula to help protect the health of your pet.

Harrington’s Dog Food Reviews

Harrington’s dog food receives mixed reviews from consumers. Those who like the food say that it is a quality choice for a decent price. Others found that their pets did not react well to the food when they switched to this brand. Of course, that could be due to failing to do a proper transition from one type of food to another.

Another complaint that some had was that they could not find the food in a store near them. This problem can be addressed by simply ordering Harrington’s dog food from the online store.

What most did agree on was that the price point of Harrington’s dog food was a great bargain. For the quality of food that you are getting, the price of this food is quite fair.

Keep in mind that some of the formulas do contain corn, so do not use if your dog has a corn allergy.

Harrington’s Dog Food Formulas

Harrington’s dog food comes in three varieties. The company also offers a variety of treats.

• Lamb & Rice – This food is appropriate for all life stages, starting at about age 8 weeks.
• Turkey & Vegetable – This food is also appropriate for all dogs that are at least 8 weeks old.
• Puppy Food – This food provides the special nutrition that puppies need.
• Puppy Treats – Treats for the little dogs.
• Training Treats – Treats to help you in training your pet.
• Teething Treats – Treats to ease the discomfort of teething.
• Sensitive Treats – Treats for dogs with a sensitive stomach.

Harrington’s Dog Food: Where to Buy

Harrington’s dog food is available at pet supply and grocery stores throughout the UK. As mentioned above, some have encountered a bit of difficulty in finding the food, but others note that it is readily available. If you live in the UK and cannot find Harrington’s dog food, visit their Web site which features an online store. Here, you will be able to order any of the Harrington’s dog food choices to be delivered right to your door.

From time to time, the online store will run a special promotion in which you will receive a discount for ordering online.

The term “low protein dog food” may seem odd to some. After all, in the wild, a dog’s diet would consist of more meat than anything else. With that in mind, why would anyone consider feeding a low protein dog food?

Low Protein Food

Some think that a diet that is high in protein can cause damage to the dog’s kidneys. Studies have shown this is not the case, but some still have a concern about any potential risks of a high protein diet.

A quick chat with your vet will likely be all it will take to ease your mind.

Even if your dog does have kidney problems, the vet will not likely recommend a diet that is low in protein. There are, however, a couple of medical conditions that may call for a cut in protein.

Advice about which food is best for a particular medical condition should always come from your vet.  There is no one answer that is right for every pet with a certain condition.

Low Protein Diet for Dogs

If you do choose to feed your pet a low protein dog food for any reason, be sure to choose a quality food. As with every other type of dog food, they are NOT all the same. You need to be sure that you choose a food with quality ingredients and one that meets all of the nutritional needs of your pet.

Examples of Quality Low Protein Dog Foods

If you do choose to feed a low protein diet, there are many dog food makers that offer a low protein option. Below are a few of the low protein dog foods that score well on reviews.

• Kirkland Healthy Weight Formula
• Blue Buffalo Life Protection Healthy Weight
• Nutro Ultra Weight Management
• Wellness Super 5 Mix Healthy Weight

If you are dealing with a dog with serious medical issues, it is a good idea to consult with your vet before changing the dog’s food.

Low Protein Homemade Dog Food

Another option is to make your own low protein dog food. More and more people are choosing homemade dog food because they want to know exactly what ingredients they are feeding their pet.

While there are many Web sites and books that offer recipes and advice for  low protein homemade dog foods, you need to show the recipes to your vet before using them. This is especially important if the dog has a medical condition.

The only way that you will know for sure if a low protein dog food is the right choice for your pet is to talk to your vet. The good news is that there are plenty of quality options if your vet does recommend this type of diet.

Natural Balance dog food reviews are very positive. This is due to the quality of the ingredients used to make Natural Balance dog food as well as to the exclusion of ingredients that are considered very controversial.

Natural Balance Dog Food

While the food does not score the very top marks in reviews, it does come close, and is often highly recommended by reviewers.

Another factor that is considered in addition to the ingredients is the nutritional balance offered by the dog food. Many dog foods, particularly inexpensive grocery store brands, do not provide all of the protein and carbohydrates that your pet needs.

Natural Balance dog foods provide average levels of protein, carbohydrates and fat.

Natural Balance Dog Food Reviews: Consumers

Natural Balance dog food consumer reviews are also usually favorable. The users of this product report that their pets enjoy the food and that they feel like they are providing a quality diet for their pet.

Some consumers note that the product can be hard to find as most of the larger pet supply chains do not carry the products. Natural Balance dog food can be found at smaller pet boutiques and at some vets offices.

If you cannot find the food near you, it can be ordered online. Of course, you will have to pay extra for the cost of shipping.

Natural Balance Dog Food Ingredients

As mentioned above, the ingredients used in Natural Balance dog food are, generally, high quality. There are three ingredients that are considered to be a bit controversial, but many experts say these ingredients are fine.

·        Tomato pomace – This is controversial not because it is harmful, but because some say it adds nothing to the food.

·        Canola oil – Canola oil has been in the news lately as being harmful. The jury is still out on this, and most experts agree that there is nothing wrong with canola oil.

·        Brewer’s Yeast – Some dogs are allergic to this ingredient.

Meat is often the first ingredient listed in this food. There are also ingredients such as lamb meal and salmon meal. These ingredients provide much of the protein found in the food.

There is a grain-free formula available, but most of the dry foods are grain based with decent amounts of meat added. Some of the formulas offered by Natural Balance dog food include:

·       Grain-free

·        Puppy

 ·        Vegetarian

· The company also offers a line of cat food and, interestingly, a line of feed for large zoo animals such as lions and tigers.

Natural Balance Dog Food Coupons

Natural Balance dog food coupons are available now and then on the company’s Web site. You can also sign up for the Natural Balance dog food email newsletter where you will be the first to know about any specials that are being offered.

Choosing the best cat food for your feline friend is important to their overall good health and well-being. When you walk down the pet food aisle of most grocery stores, you are probably going to be overwhelmed by the sheer number of choices, and that is before you even consider a cat food analysis to find the best choice. The problem is, there is probably not a good quality cat food to found on the grocery store shelves.

Cat Food Analysis

Most of the offerings in grocery stores are made of inferior ingredients, including fillers that provide no nutritional benefit to your cat.

That is why learning about cat food ratings and how to choose the best cat food is important.

Why Cat Food Ratings are Important

When you feed your cat a low-quality food, there are several things that can happen.

·        Eat More – Some pet owners think they are saving money by purchasing a lower quality food. The reality is that the cat will more than likely eat much more of it, so the savings will not be so great.

·        Lack of Nutrition – When cat food is made with fillers and other “junk food”, it cannot give your cat the proper nutrition to maintain optimal health.

·        Lack of Energy – One of the results of poor nutrition is that your cat will have a lack of energy which can contribute to obesity.

·        Skin and Coat Issues – Lackluster coat and skin issues are also common among cats with poor nutrition

Where to Find Cat Food Ratings

There are many places to find cat food ratings. You can search online or you can ask your vet. A better option is to learn how to perform a simple cat food analysis yourself by becoming familiar with cat food labels. Learn which ingredients you should see first (a named source of protein) and which ingredients you do NOT want to see (such as corn and chemical preservatives).

When you learn the basics of reading a cat food label, you will always be confident that you are choosing a quality, nutritionally sound food.

Choosing the Best Cat Food

It would make it easy if there were one cat food that was far superior to all the rest. Instead, there are many high quality foods and the best choice for your cat is going to depend on factors such as age, weight, activity level and more.

If you are having trouble choosing the best cat food for your pet, talk to your vet to get advice about what your cat needs.

If you have been feeding your cat an inferior food, you will notice a vast improvement once you choose a quality food that contains quality ingredients and provides proper nutrition.

Nature’s Recipe Dog Food

Nature’s Recipe dog food is not a top-shelf quality dog food, but it is still a very good choice. It is on the same level as Science Diet dog food. Other, higher quality foods, such as Solid Gold dog food, do not include any ingredients that are considered controversial. Nature’s Recipe does include some such ingredients, and this is discussed below.

Nature’s Recipe dog food is a good choice for those who want a quality food, but cannot afford the very top brands. Nature’s Recipe dog food comes in several formulas divided into three categories.

• Lifestage – These foods include puppy, large breed puppy, adult and senior recipes.
• Advanced – Advanced formula foods include recipes developed specifically for toy breeds, terriers and large breed dogs. There are also options for dogs with digestive and skin issues.
• Ultra Premium – This is the newest line of Nature’s Recipe dog foods and includes the Farm Stand Select formulas.

Nature’s Recipe Dog Food Reviews

Nature’s Recipe dog food reviews are generally favorable. While this food does not score the absolute highest marks in reviews, it does come recommended by many experts that conduct such reviews.

The food is made using quality ingredients, the first of which is usually a named source of protein such as chicken meal. Chicken meal contains far more protein (about 300% more) than whole chicken, so this is considered a very high quality ingredient.

The food does contain slightly below average levels of protein, but not so much lower that it should be a major cause for concern.

The reason that the Nature’s Recipe dog food reviews are not even better is the inclusion of a few controversial ingredients. Most of these are not a cause for concern. Some, such as tomato pomace, is only controversial because some see it as a filler. Others find it to be a good source of fiber. In either case, the ingredient is not harmful.

There is one ingredient, however, that may raise a bit more of a red flag: Menadione. This ingredient, which is included only in very small amounts, has been linked to certain health problems.

Even with that, the food is still a quality choice that will provide adequate nutrition for your pet.

Nature’s Recipe Dog Food Coupons

Nature’s Recipe dog food coupons may show up in the Sunday paper from time to time. You may also find such coupons that can be printed directly from various sites on line.

The availability of Nature’s Recipe dog food coupons varies, but they are not uncommon.

Nature’s Recipe Dog Food: Where to Buy

Nature’s Recipe dog food is sold at many of the major national pet supply chains, including Petco and Petsmart. Smaller dog food chains may also carry the products. You can search by your zip code at the Nature’s Recipe dog food Web site to find the closest store to you that carries this line of pet foods.

Choosing the Best Food for Cats

One of the most important decisions that you will make for your cat is choosing a cat food. If you choose a quality food, you can extend the life of your pet. Choosing the best food for cats requires a bit of knowledge about what goes into cat food, so be sure to educate yourself about how to read cat food labels before you make a decision.

If you are still unsure, talk to your vet for recommendations.

Best Dry Food for Cats

Many cat owners prefer a mostly dry food diet, with wet food given occasionally as a treat. This has more to do with the convenience of a dry food diet than anything else.

When choosing the best dry food for cats, you will need to examine the ingredients label. Here are some things to keep in mind.

·        Kittens - The needs of a kitten are different from an adult cat; and an adult cat from those of a senior cat. Be sure to choose a food that is appropriate for the age of your pet.

·        Overweight – If your cat is overweight, you will need to choose a food that is designed to help the pet shed those extra pounds.

·        AAFCO - Look for a food that has been approved by AAFCO (American Association of Feed Control Officers). This does not assure a high quality food, but it at least means the food has passed minimum standards.

·        Protein Source – When you begin to read the label, you want the ingredient to be a named protein source. For example, “chicken” rather than “meat”.

·        Dry Protein - For an adult cat, the food should have a dry weight protein of at least 26%. Kittens need even more protein.

Once you choose what you think is the best food for cats, you will need to learn how much to feed. While there should be feeding guidelines on the bag, you might want to ask your vet how much to feed, especially if your cat is overweight.

Raw Food for Cats

Some pet owners have started feeding raw food for cats. If done properly, this can meet all of the nutritional needs of your cat. One thing to consider: It is best if you do not have to change your cat’s diet very often. If you do not think that you will be able to maintain the raw food diet over the long term, then it is better not to start it in the first place.

Before starting a raw food for cats diet, you should talk about with your vet to be sure that it is a good idea for your cat.

Best Food for Cats: More Tips

If your cat has any type of issues, such as a sensitive stomach or any type of food allergies, then you will need to take that into consideration when choosing a food.

The best food for cats with sensitive stomachs will be different than for other cats. There are several pet food makers that sell products specifically for cats with sensitive stomachs. You may have to try more than one brand before you find one that works best for your pet.

For a cat with allergies, you will need to seek advice from a vet about which food is best. Once you find a food that does not bother your food-allergic cat, it is best to stick with it to avoid further problems.

There is not one food that is best for all cats. Just be sure to choose a food that is made with quality ingredients and provides all of the needed nutrients, and you will be helping to promote good health in your four-legged friend.

If you are a first time pet owner, you might have many questions about how to take care of a dog. The good news is that, while there is a lot to know, once you get used to caring for your pet, it will not take much time or effort to do so properly.

How to Take Care of a Dog

There are some basic needs that all dogs have.

• Food and Water – Learning to properly feed your dog is important for both the short and the long term health of your pet. Learn to read the ingredient label on dog food packaging. Watch your pet’s weight and work to make sure that he or she stays within a healthy weight. Always provide fresh, clean water for your pet.
• Shelter – Ideally, your pet is going to live inside your home. If you want your pet to live outside – and this is NOT recommended – then it is extremely important that you provide shelter from the cold, rain and heat. The dog should have a place to escape from extreme temperatures and to get out of the sun and the rain.
• Exercise – All dogs need some exercise, and some need much more than others. Get to know your breed so that you will know how much activity he or she will need.
• Medical Care – Your pet should be seen for a routine checkup and vaccinations at least one time per year. You should also administer monthly heartworm prevention medication and, if recommended in your area, apply a flea preventative.
• Stimulation – Dogs need play time. This could be tossing a ball around, or playing any other type of game. If your dog seems particularly smart and agile, consider training him for some local athletic dog competitions.
• Affection – Dogs crave affection from their humans. They want to be petted, brushed and snuggle up on the couch while you watch a movie.

Meeting these basic needs will help to ensure that your pet will be happy and healthy.

How to Take Care of a Puppy

When learning how to take care of a puppy, there are some special considerations. The most obvious involves housebreaking the dog. You will also need to decide whether to spay or neuter your pet. Unless you plan to breed or show the dog, it is highly recommended that you do spay or neuter.

In the event that the puppy was removed too soon from the mother, you may have to provide formula that will provide the puppy with proper nutrition.

Also, until the dog is about a year old, you should feed a food specially designed to meet the nutritional needs of a puppy.

How to Train a Dog

Learning how to train a dog is another challenge. You have some options. It is for both yours and dog’s safety that he or she learn to obey basic voice and hand commands. If you are having trouble training the dog on your own, consider enrolling in obedience classes or one on one sessions with a professional dog trainer.

How to Take Care of a Dog: Vet Visits

It can be challenging at times to know when to visit a vet. In addition to the routine vet visits mentioned above, you will need to seek medical attention anytime something seems a bit off with your pet. You will quickly learn what is normal for your dog. Do not ignore symptoms, especially if they last more than a few days.

Learn the basics of how to care for a puppy. Discover proper puppy care techniques that will help ensure a long and happy life for your dog.

How to Care for a Puppy

Having a new puppy in the house can be a lot of fun, but learning how to care for a puppy is very important, especially if this is your very first pet. The good news is that proper puppy care is not difficult. Once you learn the basics, you will be able to provide for your puppy in a way that will help assure he or she lives a long, happy and healthy life.

Proper Puppy Care

There are several aspects of proper puppy care.

• Food and Water – If you provide quality food, you can extend the life of your dog. See the section below for more information on this topic.
• Shelter – Ideally, no dog would have to live outside. If you do plan to make your dog stay outside, be sure to provide adequate shelter from the cold, heat and rain.
• Medical Care – You will need to bring your puppy to the vet when he is between six to twelve weeks for his first checkup and round of vaccinations. You will also need to provide heartworm and flea prevention according to your vet’s recommendations.
• Exercise – All puppies need exercise. Some need much more than others. If your puppy doesn’t have a big yard to run around in, then provide him or her with brisk walks and visits to the dog park. (Note: puppies under twelve weeks old and/or who have not have their first shots should not visit a dog park).
• Affection – Dogs need love. They crave it. Don’t pass up the opportunity that you have to bond with your dog while he or she is still a puppy.
• Play – Dogs love to play even when they are adults. This desire is even greater with puppies. Provide plenty of toys for your puppy and make time to play with him or her each day.
• Companionship – Dogs are companion animals. They love spending time with their humans – even if it’s just resting their head in your lap while you watch a movie.

How to Care for a Puppy: Vet Visits

As mentioned above, the first visit to a vet should take place when the puppy is between six and twelve weeks old.  You should also consult a vet if the puppy refuses to eat, seems lethargic or has any other type of symptom. Putting off medical care can put your puppy’s life at risk.

How to Care for a Puppy: Feeding

Each puppy will have different feeding requirements. If you are unsure about how much or how often to feed your puppy, refer to the feeding directions on the dog food label. Each type of food will have its own feeding instructions.

Choosing a quality food is of the utmost importance. You want to find a food that includes only quality ingredients rather than fillers and meat byproducts. Also, it is important to choose a food that will meet the unique nutritional needs of a puppy.

It is easy to learn how to care for a puppy, and the rewards of doing so are great and will last for many years.

Orijen dog food is one of the highest quality pet foods on the market. Making a decision to use this food, which is based on the type of diet that dogs would eat in the wild, requires the willingness to pay more than you would pay for most dog foods.

Because the ingredients are human grade and regionally sourced, the product costs more to make and those costs are passed on to the consumer. Still, many find the extra cost worth it because they know their dogs are eating one of the best possible diets.

One problem, however, may be finding the food. Orijen is not typically sold in large pet supply stores. Instead, it is distributed through veterinary offices and through smaller pet supply boutiques where quality is the biggest consideration.

Because the price of Orijen dog food is considered high within the industry, all of the Orijen dog food distributors are committed to quality and providing pet owners with the best possible choices.

The Orijen Web site features a store locator that allows visitors to click on their state to see all of the distributors near them. If there are none near you, then you can simply click on the “online” button to find online retailers who sell the Orijen products.  

Orijen Dog Food Home Page

A visit to the Orijen dog food home page provides a brief history or the company as well an overview of what makes the food so exceptional.

·        Free Run Chicken – Some worry about the treatment of animals raised for food. All of the chickens used in Orijen products were raised in free-run facilities.

·        Wild Caught Fish – The fish is not farmed, but is wild caught by local fisherman.

·        Regional Ingredients – All ingredients are locally sourced.

·        Natural Diet – Orijen dog food is based on the diet that dogs would eat in the wild.

·        80/20 Principle – Most of the foods contain a blend of 80% protein and 20% fruits and vegetables.

·         Human Grade – The ingredients are fit for human consumption which means they are of the highest possible quality.

Growing Network of Orijen Dog Food Distributors

As more and more people are willing to go the extra mile to provide the best for their dogs, you will find that the network of distributors is growing.  If your vet or pet boutique does not sell Orijen products ask them to consider doing so.

Orijen Dog Food Reviews

Not surprisingly, Orijen always scores the highest possible marks in reviews. That is because not only are the ingredients used superior, but the blend of the foods is appropriate for a canine diet.

If you want to give your dog one of the best foods on the market, then visit the Orijen dog food store locator today or visit an online retailer who sells these extraordinary products.

Learn why corn free dog food is the best choice. Many brands, including Nutro dog food and Blue Buffalo dog food offer corn free food options.

Corn Free Dog Food

The food that you choose to feed your dog will have a huge impact on the long-term health of your pet.  Some ingredients that are common in dog food are not only unnecessary but can actually be harmful to your pet.

Why Choose Corn Free Dog Food

Many dog foods, particularly cheaper, grocery store brands contain a lot of corn. The reason some dog food makers use this ingredient is simple: it’s cheap and filling. But the potential problems of including corn in dog food are numerous.

• Allergies – Many dogs are allergic to corn. Some pet owners feed their dogs food with a lot of corn and don’t even realize that the dog is allergic to it. Some symptoms of a corn allergy are itchy skin, hair loss and warts.
• Digestion – Corn is not easily digested by dogs. For this reason it can cause an upset in the digestive system. Also, because the food is not properly absorbed, it does not provide much of nutritional value to the pet.
• High in Carbohydrates – Corn is very high in carbohydrates. While dogs need some carbohydrates, the problem occurs when the food has a LOT of corn, as is the case with many grocery store brands. Eating a diet that is high in carbohydrates over  a long period of time can result in a dog that is overweight and can even lead to health problems such as diabetes.

Brands that Offer Corn Free Dog Food

Many brands of dog food offer corn free dog food options. Nutro dog food offers a corn free formula. Blue Buffalo dog food and Innova Evo are also good choices.

While many brands offer a corn free option, that doesn’t necessarily mean that all of their foods are corn free. That is why it is important to always carefully read the label before choosing a food.

Where to Buy Corn Free Dog Food

It is easy to find corn-free dog food. Even some grocery stores will carry a corn free dog food option, although it might not be of the highest quality. For a good selection of corn free dog food, try larger pet supply stores such as Petco and PetSmart.

Both Petco and PetSmart will have several selections of corn free dog food from which to choose. Both of those stores also have Web sites where you can order and have the food delivered right to your door.

Smaller pet boutiques and your vet’s office will also likely have at least one type of corn free dog food.

In addition to the Petco and PetSmart Web sites, there are several online retailers that sell dog food. Just about every type of corn free dog food that exists can be found by shopping online.

Choosing a corn free dog food makes sense for many reasons. Be sure to choose one that uses high quality ingredients so it will provide the best nutrition for your pet.

Is your cat suffering form a skin condition? Learn about some of the most common cat skin conditions along with the basic treatments for each.

Cat Skin Conditions

No cat lover wants to think that their pet is suffering from a cat skin condition. While some such conditions are mild and can be easily treated, others are more serious, requiring longer and more intensive treatment.

In all cases, ignoring the problem is not a good idea. This article includes some information about a few common cat skin diseases as well as advice about when to see a vet.

Cat Skin Diseases

Below is a description of some common cat skin conditions. Of course, the list is not comprehensive, so you should tell your vet about any changes in your cat’s skin.

• Acne – Cats, like humans, can suffer from acne. In cats, the condition is quite easily treated, but left untreated can turn into a more serious problem, such as a bacterial infection.
• Yeast Infection – Yeast infections are caused by a fungus. Usually, cats with a compromised immune system will be more vulnerable to this type of cat skin condition.
• Ringworm – Ringworm is a very common skin condition in cats. Like yeast infections, ringworm is caused by a fungus. Because it can easily spread to other animals and to humans, quick and proper treatment is a must.
• Allergies – Some cats have skin allergies that can be set off by a number of irritants including pollen, shampoo, fleas or many other things. While you can apply a cream to treat the systems, which typically include a rash and itching, treatment is just a matter of keeping the irritant away from your cat.
• Bacterial Infections – These infections are often the byproduct of another type of cat skin condition. Treatment requires an antibacterial cream or oral medication.
• Bumps – If you notice a bump or lump, it could be skin cancer. The good news is that if it is caught early, treatment is quite simple.

Cat Skin Condition Pictures

If your cat is suffering from any type of skin condition, consider looking for pictures online so that you can try to figure out what is causing the cat skin bumps or cat skin rash.

While such pictures should not be used as a tool to diagnose your cat, they can help you to understand what may be going on until you get in to see your vet.

Cat Skin Conditions: When to See a Vet

Cats, in general, are not crybabies. They have to be very ill before they will start “complaining.” For that reason, it is a good idea to see a vet any time that you notice changes in your cat, including skin changes.

Most often, any type of cat skin condition that is caught early can be treated quite easily. Waiting may mean a more involved, and expensive, course of action.

When you are dealing with the health of your pet, it is always better to be safe than sorry.

Learn about Chef Michael’s dog food. Get Chef Michael’s dog food reviews, Chef Michael’s dog food ingredients and Chef Michael’s dog food coupons.

Chef Michael’s Dog Food

Chef Michael’s dog food is made by Purina. While the packaging looks pretty and the marketing crew is smart (who wouldn’t want to feed their dogs a food called “Filet Mignon”?), the truth is that this is a low-quality choice of dog foods.

Chef Michael’s Dog Food Review

Chef Michael’s dog food comes in both canned and dry formulas, with several flavor choices available. The dry food scores very low in dog food reviews and the canned food fares only slightly better.

The reason for the very low ratings is the ingredients that are used to make the food. Rather than high concentrations of meat, this food is primarily plant based. While there is protein in plants, it is inferior to the protein found in meat. Also, because a dog’s diet in the wild would include mostly meat, a plant based food is not the best choice.

Chef Michael’s Dog Food Ingredients

As mentioned above, Chef’s Michael’s dog food is plant based. That alone is problematic, but it is not the only problem with the food. The makers of this dog food also include many ingredients that are controversial.

The first ingredient in the food is a named protein source, such as beef. While that seems great, the truth is that whole beef is mostly water. Once the meat has been processed, it will not really be the most dominant ingredient in the food.

Some of the included controversial ingredients are listed below.

• Garlic Oil – Pet owners know that garlic can be harmful to their pet. Depending on how processed this garlic oil is, some dogs could have a negative reaction to it.
• Meat By Products – Any dog food that contains meat by products is not the best choice. Meat by products are basically what is left on the slaughterhouse floor after the quality meat has been removed.
• Artificial Coloring – Dog foods that contain artificial coloring should also be avoided.

While the ingredients are not the best quality, Chef Michael’s dog food does contain average amounts of protein. Still, as mentioned above, the protein is plant based rather than the preferred meat based protein.

The cost of this food is surprisingly high when you consider the lower-quality ingredients that are used. It is more costly than many other grocery store foods, but less than some higher quality brands.

Where to Buy Chef Michael’s Dog Food

Chef Michael’s dog food is very easy to find. It can be purchased in grocery stores and some pet supply stores. You will probably not find this food in smaller pet boutiques, but it can be purchased online.

Chef Michael’s dog food coupons can often be found in the Sunday paper and on online coupon sites.

This food does provide minimum nutrition requirements, but does not use quality ingredients to do so.

Learn which canine vaccinations are required for all dogs and which are needed for some. Also, learn when to start your pet on a dog vaccination schedule.

Canine Vaccinations

Canine vaccinations can help to prevent serious illness from impacting your dog. The vaccinations are fairly inexpensive, but they can prevent thousands of dollars in vet bills should your pet become afflicted with a disease.

Types of Canine Vaccinations

There are several types of vaccinations, but not all are necessary for every dog. First, here is a list of vaccines that most every dog should get.

·        Distemper

·        Rabies

·        Parvovirus

Below are additional dog vaccinations that may not be needed for every dog.

·        Bordatella – This is available as a nasal vaccine or an injectable vaccine. Studies show that the nasal vaccine seems to be more effective.

·        Parainfluenza – Like the Bordatella vaccine, this is available in both nasal and injectable versions. The nasal vaccine is more highly recommended. Only dogs that will be in a kennel or some other place with a large number of other dogs should have this vaccine.

·        Coronavirus – If your dog is around a lot of other dogs, the risk of contracting this disease is high. If you plan to board your dog, it is a good idea to get the Coronavirus.

·        Lyme – Unless you live in a high risk area, your vet may advise against this vaccine. Also keep in mind that if your pet has been exposed to Lyme disease, this vaccine may not be effective.

You will have to discuss with your vet which vaccinations are appropriate for your pet.

Canine Vaccinations: When to Start

The age at which your dog needs to get a certain vaccine varies from 5 to 15 weeks depending on the vaccine. You should, however, bring the puppy to a vet as soon as you bring him home. This will allow the vet to examine the pet and let you know exactly when he should come back for his first set of shots.

Most vaccines must be given annually but some, such as certain rabies vaccines, are good for up to five years.

Do not wait. Dog vaccinations can literally save the life of your pet. As soon as your dog is old enough to get his vaccines, get them done.

The Risks of Skipping Canine Vaccinations

While there are some risks associated with certain canine vaccinations, the risks of not having your dogs vaccinated are greater. For example, there is no cure for rabies, and some other preventable illnesses can be quite serious, even fatal.

Also, failing to provide certain vaccinations is a crime in most locations, so you could be charged and your dog could be taken away from you.

The bottom line is that all pet owners should have their pets vaccinated. Talk to your vet about which of the dog vaccinations are right for your pet.

Learn why Authority dog food is a good mid-priced choice. Discover the ingredients used and where you can purchase Authority dog food.

Authority Dog Food

Authority dog food is a middle of the road brand when it comes to both price and quality. While not the best choice, it is a solid choice that provides adequate nutrition for most dogs.

Authority Dog Food Ratings

Authority dog food typically earns average ratings in dog food reviews. The reason that the food gets lower scores is the balance of nutrients and the use of some questionable ingredients. It must be said that the ingredients in question in Authority dog food are not chemical preservatives and meat byproducts, but rather some items for which the jury is still out as to whether they are a good choice for use in pet food. These ingredients are:

·        Corn

·        Corn gluten meal

·        Dried beet pulp

·        Canola oil

Reviewers also note that the meat content is a bit lower than what is ideal. The food contains higher carbs than what is ideal and dry matter protein that is just about average when compared with other dry dog foods.

Consumer reviews are largely favorable. Since the food is only available at one store, some customers have no choice but to order it online. The cost of the food is less than the very top quality brands. It is, however, more expensive than most of the grocery store dog foods, so some consumers do say that they feel the price is a bit high.

When you consider the quality of the ingredients compared to what is used in grocery store brands, the food really is a reasonable price.

Authority Dog Food Formulas

Authority dog food is available in several formulas in the following categories:

·        Puppy – Puppies need more protein and Authority dog food’s puppy formulas provide what these little guys need.

·        Adult – The food is this category are for healthy adult pets.

·        Senior – These foods meet the special dietary needs of older dogs.

·        Weight Management – This food has a lower fat content for dogs that have a little extra weight around the middle.

·        Large Breed – Large breed dogs need extra nutrition. These formulas were developed with these special needs in mind.

They also offer a selection of treats including Chicken and Cheese, Duck and Sweet Potatoes and Yogurt and Berries.

Where to Buy Authority Dog Food

The only place to buy Authority dog food is PetSmart. PetSmart is the exclusive distributor of the Authority dog food brand. If you do not have a PetSmart near you, the food can be ordered online via PetSmart’s online ordering service.

Authority is a decent choice of dog food. For those who are on a budget that will not allow for the purchase of the top brands of dog food, this mid-priced option provides the needed nutrients and includes good quality ingredients.

Learn whether Sportman’s Pride dog food scores well on reviews. Discover the ingredients and whether or not it’s the right choice for your dog.

Sportman’s Pride Dog Food

Sportman’s Pride Dog food is a lower-quality dog food that is sold at grocery stores and some pet supply stores. While it does contain very close to the average amount of protein, some would find the sources of that protein to be questionable.

Pride Dog Food Reviews

Most of the reviews of Sportman’s Pride dog food are less than stellar. While they do say that the food contains adequate amounts of protein, as mentioned above, the sources of those proteins are not ideal. For example, instead of using a whole protein source, the food may contain chicken by product meal. Chicken by products are created using the waste that is leftover from slaughterhouses.

The food also loses points by including some ingredients that are questionable such as:

·         Corn Meal – The best quality dog foods will not contain corn. Some dogs are quite allergic and the vegetable provides no necessary benefits.

·        Brewer’s Dry Yeast – This ingredient is embraced by some and shunned by others. Some say that it is a beneficial ingredient because it is high in protein. Others say that the item is connected to allergic reactions in some dogs.

·        Corn Gluten Meal – You have heard of “good carbs” and “bad carbs”? This is an example of bad carbs and may contribute to weight gain without providing any benefit to your pet.

Pride Dog Food Prices

As you may expect, the prices for Sportman’s Pride dog food are below average. While this does make it an attractive choice for those on a limited budget, you must consider what you are getting for the money when making a decision.

Sportman’s Pride Dog Food: The Bottom Line

There are several formulas of this dog food available. Even the ones with names that imply quality, such as “Professional Formula” or “Premium Puppy Formula” score low ratings in reviews. This is a good example of why pet owners should ignore the name of a dog food when making a decision.

There are many high quality dog foods on the market. While Sportman’s Pride will make your dog feel full, the inferior ingredients make it a less than ideal choice.

As you have red above, the food is not all bad. It does have appropriate amounts of protein. It has more fat that is recommended, but not by much. Also, the food contains the right amount of carbs.

The reason it gets lower scores on reviews – and the reason that it is cheaper – is the quality of the ingredients that are used.

The decision about which dog food is the best choice for you is a personal one, and one that is based on many factors including how much you can afford to spend to feed your pet.

Learn why Innova dog food reviews are consistently among the highest in the industry. Innova dog food reviews show that quality ingredients go into every bag.

Innova Dog Food Reviews

Innova dog food is a high quality product that consistently scores high marks in reviews. One reason that Innova dog food reviews tend to be so favorable is the high quality of the ingredients that are used in making the food.

There are no fillers or byproducts. The protein comes from named sources and omega 3’s and antioxidants have been added.

Look at the first six ingredients from the label of Innova Adult Dry Dog Food Large Bites:

·        Turkey

·        Chicken

·        Chicken meal

·        Barley

·        Brown rice

·        Potatoes

Notice that grains are whole grains and the protein sources are whole and named. As you read down the list of ingredients, you will also notice a lack of chemical preservatives and other controversial ingredients.

When it comes to consumer Innova dog food reviews, the product continues to get high marks. Most consumers note that their dogs enjoy the food, have good energy and shiny coats. The only areas in which Innova dog food scores a bit lower with consumers is in these two areas:

·        Cost – Because of the high quality of the ingredients used in the food, the cost is higher than for some other dog foods. It is certainly more than grocery store dog food brands, but the cost is even higher than for other quality brands of dog food.

·        Availability – Innova dog food is not available in every pet supply store, but it can be found in some locations. If you want to purchase this dog food, but cannot find it in a store near you, it can be ordered online.

Innova Dog Food Coupons

One way to save a little bit of money on the purchase of Innova dog food is to use coupons. Innova dog food coupons are not available all of the time, but every now and then the manufacturer will run a campaign and put coupons on their Web site.

You can also sign up to be on their mailing list. Occasionally, the company will send coupons via email.

Innova Dog Food: Is it Right for You?

There is no one dog food that is best for every dog. That being said, Innova dog food reviews show that it is a quality dog food that provides the nutrition that your dog needs and uses very high quality ingredients.

Of course, not every pet owner will be willing or able to pay the extra amount needed to feed their dog such a high quality food. For those who are able, this is a good choice.

If you are unsure if Innova is the right choice for your dog, it is best to ask your vet for advice.

Learn all the possible causes of cat allergies and the most common cat allergies symptoms. Also, learn how you can treat your cat’s allergies with medication.

Cat Allergies Symptoms

Cat allergy symptoms can take many forms. It could be itching, wheezing, hair loss or sores on the skin.

One of the most common of cat allergy symptoms is itching. Itching can be caused by food allergies, flea allergies and allergies to household items such as leather, wool or cotton. A cat can be allergic to something yet only display mild symptoms. Other cats can be extremely allergic and exhibit very troubling symptoms.

Because cats are not “complainers”, it is important not to ignore any symptoms that your cat may exhibit. Instead, as soon as you think something is wrong, make an appointment with your vet so that he or she will be able to pinpoint the problem and find an effective treatment.

Cat Cold Symptoms

Cats can catch a cold pretty much any place that they come in contact with other animals. This includes boarding facilities and at the vet’s office. Symptoms are similar to what a human with a cold may experience.

• Sneezing
• Wheezing
• Mucous

If you notice these symptoms in your cat, there is a good chance that he or she has a cold. So, how do you know when you need to see a vet?

• Loss of appetite – Anytime that your cat stops eating, you need to see a vet right away. Even a few days without food can cause serious damage to your cat’s liver, so do not wait to see the vet
• More than a week – If the cold symptoms last more than a week or so, those symptoms could be the sign of something more serious.
• Other symptoms – If you notice any other symptoms along with those listed above, it is a good idea to see a vet.

Cat Food Allergy Symptoms

Cat food allergies can be mild or severe. In mild cases, the cat’s owner may not even realize that they are dealing with a food allergy and will continue feeding the problem food for years.

With severe food allergies, the symptoms will be much more difficult to ignore. You may see sores and hair loss as well as other disturbing symptoms.

If your vet suspects a food allergy, he will likely work with you to determine the ingredient that is causing the problem. This is done by removing one ingredient at a time until the problem food, which can then be removed from the cat’s diet, is identified.

Cat Allergies Treatment

The cat allergies treatment will, of course, depend on the trigger for the allergy. For a cat food allergy, the solution is likely as simple as changing foods. If the allergy is triggered by fleas or household articles, you may need to administer some type of medication.

Just like there is not one solution for every person that has an allergy, there is not one treatment that will be right for every cat.

Are you looking for the best rated dog food brands? Discover how the best brands are selected and see which brands have the have top ratings.

Best Rated Dog Food Brands

With so many brands of dog food on the market, how do you know which are the best rated dog food brands? This can be tricky to figure out, because much of what you find on the internet may be nothing more than marketing material from the dog food makers and, therefore, must be ignored.


Instead, you must find unbiased reviews so that you can make an informed decision about the type of food that you feed to your dog. Keep in mind that there are many quality dog foods that would not make the list of best rated dog food brands.

The very top brands include the finest ingredients, but many brands also use quality ingredients and will meet the nutritional needs of your pet.

Best Rated Dog Food Brands: Selection Process

As mentioned above, there are a lot of quality dog foods on the market that might not make the list of best rated dog food brands. So what makes a dog food stand out from the rest?

·        Quality Ingredients – A dog food can be very nutritious, yet the ingredients not be of the best quality. The best dog foods are going to use quality meat, vegetables and whole grains. They will also add minerals, omega 3s and other items known to be beneficial to the health of your pet.

·        No Controversial Ingredients – Just as important as what IS in the dog food is what is NOT in the dog food. Chemical preservatives, artificial colorings and meat by products are among the items that will NOT be found in a quality dog food.

·        Nutritional Balance – If a food has quality ingredients but does not meet the needs of your pet then it is not going to be a best rated dog food. The exact requirements depend on the age, activity level and weight of your dog.

·        Sourcing of Ingredients – Where the manufacturer gets the ingredients used in dog food can have an impact on their overall rating. Locally sourced ingredients are the best.

Best Rated Dog Food Brands: Cost

If you want to feed your dog one of the best rated dog foods brands, you should plan to pay more than you would for a grocery store dog food. Still, that doesn’t mean that you have to spend a fortune.

Some of the very best rated dog food brands sell for as much as $90 per 30 pound bag. Others cost as little as $50 per 30 pound bag.

You are going to pay more for the quality ingredients and many pet owners feel it is worth every penny.

Examples of Best Rated Dog Food Brands

Again, there are many quality brands of dog food. Below are three of the best on the current market.

·        Innova Evo

·        Orijen

·        Blue Dog Food

One of the best things that you can do for your pet is to feed him or her a quality food. Learn which foods have earned the highest ratings so that you can make an informed decision.

Learn why not all Wellness dog food reviews are the same. Also, learn where you can find Wellness dog food coupons to save on this quality dog food brand.

Wellness Dog Food Review

Wellness dog food is a good example of why you cannot rely solely on the name of the brand when choosing a food. If you look at Wellness dog food reviews, you will note that the different available formulas of this dog food get various ratings. For example:

• Wellness Simple Solutions – This dry food typically scores right in the middle.
• Wellness Super 5 Mix – This dry food doesn’t quite get the very best scores, but almost.
• Wellness Core – This dry food usually gets the best marks possible when it is reviewed.

While there is some variation in the reviews for the Wellness canned food, it is not as noticeable as with the dry foods. The Wellness dog food reviews for their canned products always score very close to the top of the charts.

All of the Wellness dog foods are quality choices, but some are more so than others.

Wellness Dog Food Ingredients

The difference in the dog food reviews all comes down to the ingredients that are used. For example, the first ingredient in the Wellness Simple Solutions dry dog food is ground rice. While this is not necessarily a bad ingredient, it is preferable to see a named source of protein as the first ingredient.

In Wellness Core dry dog food, which gets the highest marks, the first ingredient is deboned turkey or salmon.

While each of the Well dog food formulas uses some controversial ingredients, they are the type of ingredient that are criticized for being a filler, such as tomato pomace, rather than for being potentially harmful.

Wellness Dog Food Formulas

Dry Foods

·        Wellness Simple Solutions – This food is specially formulated for dogs with certain allergies.

·        Wellness Super 5 Mix – This is the basis Wellness dog food formula.

·        Wellness Core – This is a grain-free, high-quality option.

Within each of the formulas are various flavors and options for puppies, seniors and overweight dogs.

There are also two dozen canned options including complete meals as well as mixers which can be added to dry food to make it more appetizing to your pet.

Wellness Dog Food Coupons

As is the case with many of the top quality brands, Wellness dog food coupons are not easy to come by. Every now and then you may find a coupon on the Wellness dog food Web site. Also, some of the distributors may offer specials from time to time.

One good thing about this dog food is that it is very easy to find. Sometimes, the top dog food brands are only distributed through limited retailers. Wellness dog food is carried at most of the major nationwide pet supply stores. It can also be purchased online.

Wellness dog food reviews show that it is a quality choice for people who want to feed their pets only the very best.

Learn how cat run enclosures and cat doors can allow your cat to spend time in the outdoors without the dangers of roaming freely.

Cat Run Enclosures

A cat run enclosure is a device that allows cats to play outside without being allowed to roam free. Think of it as a large outdoor playpen with a mesh roof. When properly assembled, the cats cannot escape from the enclosure, but they can enjoy the feeling of being outdoors.

• Accessories – In addition to the basic cat run enclosure, many accessories are available such as hammocks and climbing structures.
• Cat Doors – Cat doors that open to a cat run enclosure are a great way to provide your cat with free access to his or her cat run enclosure.
• Size – Cat run enclosures come in various sizes from the very small to the more expansive.

Cat Run Enclosures: Are They Necessary?

Studies show that cats that live indoors live longer and healthier lives than cats that are allowed to spend time outdoors. Still, it is nice to be able to give cats a chance to lounge around outside, particularly on a nice, warm spring day.

A cat enclosure provides that opportunity while keeping cats safe from the dangers of being allowed to run around loose.

While a cat enclosure is certainly not a necessity for healthy cat, they provide a very nice addition to your cat’s play space and allows him or her to spend time in the outdoors in a manner that is safe and secure.

Where to Buy Cat Run Enclosures

Many pet supply stores sell a selection of cat run enclosures, but usually the selection will be quite limited. The best place to shop for cat run enclosures in online. Online retailers will offer more options than will a brick and mortar store.

When you shop online, you will find enclosure and cat run doors in different sizes and with many options that you might not find at the local pet supply store.

Other Tips about Cat Run Enclosures

• Assembly - Be absolutely sure to assemble the enclosure properly. Failing to do so could make it possible for your cat to escape.
• Cats Only – It is not a good idea to allow dogs to play in the cat enclosure because they could damage the mesh.
• Predators – If you live in an area where your cats have predators, do not allow the cats to play in the enclosure unattended because, obviously, the mesh will not provide much protection for them.
• Cost – The cost of a cat run enclosure depends on the size of the enclosure and the accessories that you choose. In general, these items start at about $45 and go up from there.

A cat run enclosure can give your cat a little extra freedom while allowing you to have peace of mind regarding the safety of your feline family members.

Learn about common cat diseases and symptoms such as feline leukemia symptoms, and cat AIDS symptoms. Learn when the cat illness symptoms warrant a vet visit.

Cat Diseases and Symptoms

There are several diseases that can affect your cat. Cat diseases and symptoms can sometimes be similar one to another, and therefore take a bit of work to diagnose.

Below are three of the most common cat diseases along with some of the symptoms that are associated with each condition.

As mentioned above, you will notice an overlap in the symptoms. You may also wonder at which point you need to visit a vet.

Because cats will sort of tough it out when they don’t feel good, some pet owners make the mistake of putting off a vet visit far too long. Instead, take the better-safe-than-sorry approach.

Cat Flu Symptoms

Cats can catch the flu in much the same way that humans can. The symptoms are similar as well and may include:

• Sneezing
• Discharge from the eyes or nose
• Difficulty breathing, wheezing
• Lack of interest in food
• Lethargy

Sometimes the symptoms will begin to ease on their own in a few days, but it is still a good idea to see a vet at the onset of the symptoms. This is especially true in relation to the lack of appetite. If a cat goes even a couple of days without eating, it can lead to liver problems.

Feline Leukemia Symptoms

Feline Leukemia affects a very large number of cats. Some experts estimate that as many as 3% of cats have this type of cancer. The number is even higher for cats that are in high risk groups, such as those that live or spend time outdoors.

Some of the symptoms of Feline Leukemia are:

• Diarrhea that lasts at least several days
• No interest in food
• Noticeable difference in personality
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Fever
• Various eye problems

Obviously, these symptoms could mean many things, but make an appointment with a vet to rule out feline leukemia at the onset of symptoms.

Cat AIDS Symptoms

Feline AIDS is another very common disease among cats and it affects as many as 1 in 12 cats. The disease is spread through contact with an infected cat. This is one of the reasons that keeping your cat indoors is so important to his or her health. Feline AIDS cannot be passed to humans, and it is perfectly safe to keep a cat that has the disease as a pet. Some of the symptoms include:

• Lethargy
• Fever
• Weight loss
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Various infections

Because this disease compromises the immune system, the cats will be prone to all types of infections such as urinary tract, respiratory and others. The same is true for Feline Leukemia.

The sooner a cat is diagnosed with a disease, the sooner treatment can begin. Even cats with an incurable disease can still live a longer life if treatment starts soon after the onset of symptoms.

Pay close attention to your cat and report any changes to your vet as soon as possible.

Learn how to care for kittens and how to care for orphaned kittens. Learn what you will need to buy and the basics of kitten care.

How to Care for Kittens

How can anyone not fall in love with an adorable kitten? If you decide to bring a kitten into your home, you will need to learn about how to care for kittens.

How to Care for Kittens: The Basics

How to care for kittens involves many of the same things as how to care for dogs, with a few exceptions. Below are the basics of how to care for kittens.

• Food and Water – The way to begin feeding your kitten will depend on the age. For very young or orphaned kittens, you may have to start with formula. It is best to consult a vet if you are unsure of a kitten’s age.
• Shelter – Kittens should be kept inside. They will need a warm corner or box to call their own.
• Vet Visits – You should schedule a vet visit as soon as possible. You will need to arrange for the first round of shots in order to ensure your kitten stays healthy.
• Litter Box – Most cat owners are surprised by how easy it is to litter box train a cat. Introduce your kitten to the litter box as soon as possible.
• Play Time – Even if your kitten doesn’t seem interested at first, make time to play with your kitty.

How to Care for Kittens: What to Buy

Below is a list of some of the items that you will need to buy to care for your kitten.

• Water and food bowls
• High quality kitten food
• Litter box
• Litter
• Toys
• Kitty wipes or shampoo

How to Care for Stray Kitten

If you find a stray kitten and want to give it a good home, there are some extra steps that you will need to take. Also, you should understand that a stray kitten, also called a feral kitten, will likely take longer to warm up to you. They tend to be more aloof around humans than other cats, but with some love and patience will become a wonderful pet.

If you see a stray kitten, the first thing you should do is look for the mother. Ideally, you will want to keep the mother and kittens together until the kittens have been fully weaned.

If you do not see a mother cat you may need to use a humane trap in order to catch the kitten. Some stray kittens will allow you to approach. In that case a trap may not be necessary. Be sure to use a trap that will not harm the kitten in any way. Many SPCAs will loan such traps.

• Home – Keeping young kittens warm is very important. Providing them with their own safe spot will help them to feel secure. You can use a cat carrier lined with blankets or towels. Add a heating pad if needed.
• Feeding – If the kitten is younger than 3 weeks old, you will need to feed the kitten using a bottle and replacement formula. Once the kitten is about 3 or 4 weeks old, you can switch to a powdered formula that will be mixed with liquid and fed in a bowl. If the kitten is not eating from the bowl, you will need to nurse with a bottle a bit longer.
• Litter Box – You want to introduce the kitten to the litter box as soon as possible. The good news is that most kittens will take to the litter box quite naturally.
• Vet – Be sure to visit a vet as soon as possible. The vet will be able to check for illnesses that are especially common among stray cats. Also, the vet will be able to advise you about when the kitten will need his or her first round of shots. You will also want to talk to your vet about spaying or neutering the kitten as soon as the kitten is old enough.

It might seem like a lot to learn, but the love you will get from your new pet will make it all worth it.

Learn how to make a cat tree by using free cat tree plans. Discover which extras you should add when you build your own cat tree.

How to Make a Cat Tree 

Have you been searching for a cat climbing tower, but decided that they were just too pricey? You can learn how to make a cat tree, and it does not even require the use of power tools or any special carpentry skills.

DIY Cat Tree

Building a DIY cat tree is a project that you can complete in just one day. If you do have some carpentry skills, you can probably figure out the basic cuts of wood that you will need just by looking at an example of a cat condo that you like. If not, there are kits that contain precut pieces that you will need to simply assemble and then cover with carpet.

Another option is to use cat tree plans. While most of these plans are very easy to follow, you will need to be able to measure and cut the wood. If you are not comfortable with the idea of having to measure and cut, then the kits are probably a better choice for you.

Whether your kit or plans include these extras or not, you should definitely add them to your DIY cat tree.

·        Sisal – When you wrap at least one of the posts with sisal, you will give your cats a tempting scratching surface that will, hopefully, keep them away from your furniture.

·        Dangling Toys – These toys will give your cat something to bat around as he or she plays on the cat tree. This type of play can help prevent obesity and keep your cat as playful as a kitten.

·        Cushy Top Level – Your cat will probably love taking long naps on the top level on the cat condo. Consider adding a comfy bed or piece of memory foam to make nap time nice and comfy.

Free Cat Tree Plans

You don’t have to spend money to buy cat tree plans. There are many Web sites that offer a variety of free cat tree plans. Just click and print a copy to bring along to the hardware store. That way, you will be sure to buy everything that you need to complete this fun project.

Build Your Own Cat Tree: It’s Easier Than You Think!

Yes, it can be intimidating for some to start a carpentry project. But once you get started, you will realize just how easy it is to make a cat tree. Make it a family project by allowing the kids to help choose the carpet or attach the dangling toy.

Your cat will love his or her new cat tower, and will appreciate the effort you put in to making it. Just don’t expect them to show it!

Learn why Kirkland dog food reviews typically score very high marks. Kirkland dog food ingredients are of a high quality and this food is priced reasonably.

Kirkland Dog Food

Kirkland dog food is made by Diamond. It is the signature brand of Costco, a chain of members-only warehouse style stores. The food is quite inexpensive at only about $25 for 30 pounds, but it is of a very good quality.

Costco is known for offering quality items at a reasonable price and the Kirkland dog food is no exception.

Kirkland Dog Food Review

Kirkland dog food reviews are typically quite favorable. This is in large part due to the quality ingredients that are used and the fact that Kirkland dog food meets all of the nutritional needs of dogs.

It is a grain based food, as are most dry dog foods, but there are no plant proteins. Since the food offers average amounts of protein – about 29% – there is plenty of meat protein which is vital if a food is to get good ratings. Kirkland dog food also has average fat and carbohydrates with 17% and 46% respectively.

There are two ingredients that are somewhat controversial, which will be discussed in the next section, but the food still manages to score near the top in dog food ratings.

Kirkland Dog Food Ingredients

The ingredients in Kirkland dog food are of a high quality. Some reviewers note that this is a bit of a surprise when you consider the low cost of the food as compared to other quality dog foods.

The first two ingredients are chicken and chicken meal. While the whole chicken is mostly water, the chicken meal is a concentrated form of the poultry that provides about 300% more protein that whole chicken.

Other ingredients include:

• Flaxseed – This is a wonderful source of Omega 3s which help boost the score of dog food during the review process.
• Chelated Minerals – Chelated minerals are much easier for dogs to digest, and they are found in most quality dog foods.
• Beet Pulp – This is one of the controversial ingredients in the food. It is a byproduct that occurs when sugar beets are processed, but most experts agree that this ingredient is fine in modest amounts. There is only a small amount of beet pulp in Kirkland dog food.

What you will not find in Kirkland dog food is also notable: There are no plant boosters, artificial colors or chemical preservatives.

Kirkland Dog Food: Where to Buy

The only place to buy Kirkland dog food is at Costco warehouses. You must be a member of the warehouse in order to shop there. If you do not have a Costco warehouse near you, you can shop online for Kirkland dog food from Costco’s Web site. A membership is required to shop on the Web site as well.

Learn what it really means when your cat sneezes, meows, and purrs. Also, learn what it means when your cat hiccups and yawns.

Reasons that Cats Sneeze

If you own a cat, you have probably wondered why cats sneeze, purr, meow and do a host of other sometimes amusing behaviors. While there is rarely one easy answer about why a cat does a certain thing, there are some reasons that are more common than others. Let’s start with why cats sneeze and then move on to other behaviors.

Some of the possible reasons that cats sneeze are similar to reasons that people sneeze. Below are a few of the possibilities.

• Allergies – Cats can have allergies to some things that bother many humans including dust, pollen and certain scents.
• Feline Leukemia – Cats with feline leukemia have a compromised immune system which makes them more susceptible to infections, including those that could result in sneezing.
• Feline Herpes – Feline herpes, also called FVH-1, can cause excessive sneezing in cats.
• Sinus Infections – Cats with a compromised immune system are more prone to a sinus infection, but any cat can develop one.

What it Means When Cats Meow and Purr

One of the best parts of having a cat is hearing them purr or meow softly. But what does all that purring and meowing really mean?

Purring

Purring is most often associated with times when the cat is happy and content, such as when they are sitting in your lap. But cats also purr when they are frightened, in pain or even close to death.

Some animal experts think this is because purring is a way that cats try to comfort or calm themselves.

So purring can mean a number of things. You must take the situation into account when trying to determine the reason.

Meowing

There are many types of meows, and each has a unique meaning. Below are a few examples.

• Loud – If you leave the cat’s food bowl empty, this is the type of meowing you are likely to hear. Loud meowing can usually be interpreted to be a bit demanding.
• Quiet – This type of meowing may mean that your cat wants some attention.
• Howl –This type of meowing, obviously, indicates some type of distress. Your cat may be frightened or in pain. Never ignore this type of meowing. If your cat is acting like he or she is in pain, see a vet.

What it Means When Cats Yawn

The obvious answer to why your cat yawns would be because he or she is tired. While this is sometimes the case, yawning could also be a sign of boredom, stress or a way to show other cats – and maybe humans – that he or she is tired and wants to be left alone.

What it Means When Cats Hiccup

There are a number of reasons why cats might hiccup. It could be the result of allergies or digestive problems. If you notice that your hiccups after mealtime, try raising his or her food bowl so that the cat can eat without bending the neck so low. If hiccupping is excessive and lasts more than a couple of days, see your vet.

A list of some of the most popular dog food brands, with the best choices highlighted. Learn what you need to know to choose a high quality dog food!

Dog Food Brands List

There are many, many dog food brands. Some are healthy options. Others should be avoided. While not comprehensive, the list below includes some of the most popular dog food brands, some good, some not, as well as some of the best quality foods on the market.

• 4 Health*
• Acana*
• Addiction
• Adirondack
• Alpo
• Artemis*
• Authority
• Back to Basics*
• Beneful
• Bil Jac
• Black Gold
• Blue Buffalo*
• California Natural*
• Canidae*
• Cesar
• Chef Michael’s
• Chicken Soup for the Dog Lover’s Soul*
• Diamond*
• Drs. Foster and Smith
• Eagle Pack*
• Iams
• Innova*
• Kirkland*
• Merrick*
• Mighty Dog
• Natural Balance*
• Nutro
• Ol’ Roy
• Orijen*
• Pedigree
• Precise*
• Purina
• Royal Canin
• Solid Gold*
• Taste of the Wild*
• Wellness*

The brands with a * next to them have formulas that are very highly rated. That does not mean that every food within the brand is a good choice, so each formula must be evaluated individually.

The Best Dog Food Brands

What makes a dog food brand one of the best? There are several factors that are taken into consideration when experts are rating dog food. By becoming familiar with the ingredients that are typically used in dog foods, you will be able to decide if a food is a quality choice just by glancing at the package. Below are some things to consider.

• Ingredients – The very best foods will use human grade, organic ingredients. Of course, those foods can be quite expensive. Other foods that are very highly rated will not use human grade food, but will choose whole meat and poultry, fruits and vegetables and use little, if any, grain.
• Nutrition Levels – There are minimum requirement for protein, fat and carbohydrates. How much your dog needs depends on the life stage and activity level of your dog. A food that is too high in fat and carbs will not contain enough protein, and should be avoided.
• Controversial Items – Using quality ingredients is certainly important, but if the dog food brand uses some quality ingredients but also uses controversial items, it will not be considered a high quality food. Examples of ingredient that you should avoid are meat and poultry by products and artificial colors and flavors.
• Added Health Boosters – This includes antioxidants, Omega 3’s, the use of chelated minerals and more.

Bad Dog Food Brands

Some dog foods brands get by using the absolute lowest quality ingredients. You will notice that there is no named meat source and the food includes many of the controversial items listed above.

When you feed your pet a low quality food, you put him or her at risk for a variety of health problems including obesity, skin problems and many others.

Choosing the Best Dog Food Brands

As mentioned above, once you become familiar with the ingredients used in dog foods, you will be able to spot a quality food by simply glancing at the label.

With so many dog food brands to choose from, it is important to know what to look for so that you can feed your pet the best possible diet.

Learn why cat shock collars are not an ideal training method. Electric collars for cats can cause many issues and even injure your pet.

Cat Shock Collar

Many people have heard of dog shock collars but were unaware that cat shock collars were also widely available. Cat shock collars are used by some pet owners as a training device.

As is the case with dog shock collars, their use is quite controversial.

Cat Shock Collar: Training

Training is the most common use for cat shock collars, although some pet owners also use them to keep cats from wandering onto furniture or countertops.

Many, many people have an issue with using any type of pain – even if it is mild – when training a pet. Some question the effectiveness of cat shock collars as cats do not usually respond very well to training methods that are based in fear as is this one.

Before you purchase a cat shock collar, you should be fully aware of the potential problems of using this type of training.

Cat Shock Collar: Problems

There are a number of potential problems associated with the use of cat shock collars.

• Injury – This is, obviously, the most serious of concerns when it comes to cat shock collars. If the unit becomes wet or damp, it can cause a higher level of shock to occur. This can – and has – resulted in serious injuries to cats.
• Owner = Pain – Do you want your cat to associate your presence with pain? If not, then you should forego the use of cat shock collars.
• Choking – These collars can quite easily become hung up on something, creating a choking hazard for your pet.
• Fear Training – As mentioned above, most cats do not respond well to training that is based in fear. Not only is there the potential that you may seriously harm your cat, but it all may in vain.

Some owners don’t even realize that they are hurting their cats. They have been led to believe that shock collars just feel like a tap or a poke. That’s simply not true.

The truth is that cat shock collars use pain to attempt to control behavior.

Cat Shock Collar: Just Say No

Instead of shock collars, try training methods that are based in rewards. While many will find it far easier to train dogs than cats, it is very possible to train cats with a bit of time and patience.

If you are having so much trouble training your cat that you would resort to inflicting pain, consider a session or two with a professional trainer who will be able to teach you the methods of properly – and painlessly – training your cat.

The good news is that most cats are very easy to litter box train, which is a big point that many cat owners are concerned about.

Cat shock collars, in addition to being questionable in their effectiveness, cause pain. Keep that in mind before making the decision to purchase one.

Dog muzzles for biting & dog muzzles for behavior control are only a temporary fix. Dog muzzles for aggressive dogs do not take place of behavior modification.

Dog Muzzles for Biting

Dog muzzles for biting are certainly an effective to protect humans and animals from an aggressive dog, but they should not be considered a long-term solution. There are some situations that may warrant the use of a muzzle.

• Grooming – Some dogs get very upset during grooming, particularly when it is time to clip their nails. Putting a muzzle on your pet during this time will protect the groomer should the dog decide to nip at her.
• Training – Muzzles may be used during training to protect the trainer until other behavior modification methods begin to work.
• Vet Visits – As is the case with grooming, some dogs get upset when they visit the vet. Using a muzzle may be a good option to protect the staff at the vet’s office.

Dog Muzzles for Aggressive Dogs

If you have an aggressive dog, a dog muzzle should not be viewed as the answer to your problem. A dog should not have to wear a muzzle every time he or she leaves the house. Instead, a muzzle should only be viewed as a very short term solution until proper training and behavior modification can correct the aggressive behavior.

It is not ok to allow a dog to be aggressive and simply stifle his urge to attack with a muzzle. Instead, you must work with a trainer to curb the behavior so that the dog will no longer need the muzzle.

Dog Muzzles for Behavior Control

As mentioned above, it is fine to use a muzzle to protect the trainer while the dog is learning not to be aggressive. It is NOT ok to use the muzzle as punishment or as the MEANS of behavior modification.

If your trainer suggests that this is a good idea, you should find another trainer.

Dog Muzzles for Biting: Other Options

If you have an aggressive dog, the first priority is the safety of the people and other animals that the dog will come in contact with. If you must take your aggressive dog in public for walks, vet visits or other reason, then you should use a muzzle, BUT, as mentioned above, this should not be considered a long term solution.

• Obedience Classes – If the dog is not really aggressive, but gets snappy when threatened or scared, an obedience class may work for you. You should not, however, enroll an aggressive dog in an obedience class because he or she will be a threat to the other dogs and their owners.
• One on One Training – If you have an aggressive dog then you must find a good trainer. Ideally, the trainer will have a lot of experience – and success – working with aggressive dogs.

Remember, a muzzle will physically restrain your dog from biting, but it will not teach proper behavior and that should always be the ultimate goal.

Learn about Rachel Ray dog food and where to find Rachel Ray dog food coupons. Find out why Rachel Ray dog food reviews do not get the best scores.

Rachel Ray Dog Food

Most people know Rachel Ray as a television chef and food writer. She is also very much an animal lover, she is a pet mommy to her much-love pitbull named Isaboo, and has developed her own line of dog foods.

While the food does not get the highest marks for quality, it doesn’t get the lowest either.

A portion of the sales of all Rachel Ray dog food is given to various animal charities that Ray supports.

Rachel Ray Dog Food Recipes

Currently, there are only two formulas of Rachel Ray dog food.

·          Rachel Ray Nutrish Beef and Brown Rice

·         Rachel Ray Nutrish Chicken and Veggie

There is no specified puppy or senior formula, but this food is approved for all life stages. Rachel Ray also offers dog treats.

Some experts say it is best to stay away from foods that are for all life stages because the nutritional needs of adult dogs are different that those of puppies or senior dogs. Still, AAFCO has approved this food for all life stages, but you might want to consult your vet before giving it to your puppy or senior dog.

Rachel Ray Dog Food Review

As mentioned above, this food does not get the best reviews. While it provides average amounts of protein, fat and carbohydrates, the inclusion of several controversial ingredients hurt the score of this food. Some of the controversial ingredients are listed below.

·        Animal Fat – No source is named for the animal fat in this food. That means it can come from many unsavory places, further hurting the score of this food.

·        Corn Gluten Meal – The best dog foods will not include corn at all, but corn gluten meal is even worse than corn. This is simply a byproduct of corn processing and adds no nutritional value.

·        Soybean Meal – While soybean meal is not necessarily a bad ingredient, in this food it provides much of the protein which means there is less meat based protein than is ideal.

This food scores just slightly above the worst of the grocery store brands, so it is not the worst choice. It is also not even close to being the best choice.

Rachel Ray Dog Food Coupons

It is not uncommon to find Rachel Ray dog food coupons in the Sunday paper, or online through the dog food Web site or other coupon printing sites. The cost of this dog food is not terribly high, although it is slightly more than some other grocery store dog foods.

The manufacturer also offers free samples from time to time.

So Rachel Ray dog food meets the basic nutritional needs of your pet, but does so with inferior, plant based ingredients rather than the high quality meat found in better brands.

Learn the basics of proper puppy feeding guidelines. Get puppy feeding tips that will help you choose a food and set up a proper puppy feeding schedule.

Puppy Feeding Guidelines

If you are a first time pet parent, learning how to properly feed your puppy can seem like a daunting task. The truth is that puppy feeding guidelines are quite simple, and once you get into a routine, you won’t even have to think about it.  

Puppy Feeding Guidelines: Choosing a Food

The first step is choosing a quality food. The puppy feeding schedule and puppy feeding amounts do not mean much if you choose a low-quality food. You want to find a food that has the following features:

·        Quality ingredients – Some dog foods, particularly those commonly sold at grocery stores, are made with inferior ingredients and include items that are considered controversial. Become familiar with the dog food labels. Learn what each ingredient really means and which to avoid. A general tip is that the first ingredient should be a named source of protein. For example, you should see “chicken” or “salmon” not “meat”.

·        Appropriate Nutrition  - You also want to choose a food that provides the correct amounts of protein, fat and carbohydrates.

·         Puppy Formula – Until your puppy is about one year old, you should feed a food that is formulated for puppies. The nutritional needs of a puppy are different than of an adult dog, so this is very important.

Puppy Feeding Schedule

The exact puppy feeding schedule will depend on the food that you choose. In general, you will want to feed your puppy two to three times per day according to the amounts listed on the dog food that you select.

Puppy Feeding Tips

·        Don’t Overfeed – The way that you feed your pet while he or she is a puppy will have an impact on the health of your dog throughout his or her life. Overfeeding will, obviously, lead to a weight problem. It is more difficult to get an overweight pet to lose weight than it is to avoid a weight problem from the start.

·        Feed at the Same Time – Get on a puppy feeding schedule in which you feed your pet at the same times each day.

·        Stick with One Food – Choose a high quality food and stick with it. Changing foods can lead to an upset stomach or other digestive issues.

·        Switch Slowly – If you do want to switch dog foods, do so slowly. Start by adding a small amount of the new food in with your pet’s current food. Slowly increase the amount of the new food until you have made the transition.

If your puppy is refusing to eat, consult your veterinarian. The solution might be as simple as choosing a different food, but refusing food can also be the sign of a medical problem, so don’t ignore that symptom.

Using proper puppy feeding guidelines is one great way that you can get your pet’s life off to a healthy start.

Learn how well California Natural dog food scores in reviews. Also, see why their dry food scores much lower than their canned options.

California Natural Dog Food Reviews

California Natural dog food offers several formulas including both dry and canned varieties. This dog food is a good example of why you cannot buy a food based solely on the brand name, and you must examine the ingredients of each bag or can of food that you purchase.

While California Natural dog food reviews of their canned products are outstanding, their dry dog food scores only average ratings. Below are two of the considerations when assigning a rating to dog food.

• Ingredients – Use of quality, whole meat products, easily digestible carbohydrates and quality vegetables will help the score. Adding items that provide proven health benefits, such as omega 3s and antioxidants is also good for the overall rating.
• Use of Controversial Items – The inclusion of some items, such as chemical preservatives, will hurt the overall rating.

California Natural Dog Food: Formulas

Below are some of the offerings by California Natural dog food.

DRY

California Natural dog food offers a dozen dry food options including several adult and puppy options as well as a grain-free food and a product specially formulated for overweight adult dogs.

CANNED

The company only offers three canned options, and all are for adults dogs.

·        California Natural Salmon and Sweet Potato Adult

·        California Natural Chicken and Brown Rice Adult

·         California Natural Lamb and Brown Rice Adult

California Natural Dog Food Ingredients

As mentioned above, the selected ingredients in the dry and canned food are quite different. The dry food typically achieves mid-range scores in reviews. This is not because of the quality of the ingredients used, but rather the ratio of meat to grain. California Natural dry foods are mostly grain, with small amounts of quality meat. There are no controversial ingredients included.

The canned food, on the other hand, includes an abundance of meat or fish along with an easily digestible carbohydrate source. Again, no controversial ingredients are included and the food contains correct ratio of carbs, fat and protein.

The canned food typically scores the highest possible ratings.

California Naturals: What Consumers Say

Both the dry and canned food get high marks from consumers, but keep in mind that such reviews are based on their personal experience rather than an actual analysis of the dog food.

Consumer say that the food is well-received by their pets. Some note it can be a bit difficult to find, but if you cannot find California Natural dog food near you, it can be ordered online.

If you want to feed your dog only the highest quality food, then the California Naturals canned options are a great choice.

The dry foods are also acceptable and, while they do not score as high as the canned food, they are a much better option than grocery store dog foods.

There are many “best brands of dog food“. Canidea, Innova and other top rated dog foods contain quality ingredients. Learn where you can buy these great brands!

Best Brands of Dog Food

When you hear the term “best brands of dog food”, you may think that there is a master list that includes all of the food brands that are best for every dog. If only it was that simple! Some brands of dog food have some formulas that are of a high quality and others that should be avoided.

Instead of relying on a list of the best brands of dog food, it is better to become familiar with what makes a great dog food. This will allow you to choose a dog food brand and formula that is right for your pet.

Choosing the Best Brands of Dry Dog Food

A working dog has different dietary needs than a dog that lounges around all day. A puppy has different dietary needs than a senior dog. Not every food is going to be the best fit for every dog.

That being said, the basics of choosing the best dog food will remain the same for every dog. Of course, a food that contains the proper nutrition is important, but you also want the ingredients to be of a high quality. For example, a particular type of dog food might have the right levels of protein, carbohydrates and fat yet the first ingredient could be “meat byproducts”. That same food could be full of artificial colors and flavors.

The way to choose a quality dog food is basically the same way that you choose a healthy diet for yourself: Look for the best ingredients in the right amounts and without a lot of artificial, over-processed ingredients.

Examples of the Best Brands of Dog Food

There are many brands of dog food that are highly rated. These foods contain the quality ingredients discussed above and never add controversial ingredients. Examples of the best brands of dog foods are listed below.

• Canidae
• Acana
• Orijen
• Kirkland
• Merrick
• Innova

Some of the foods on this list are much more expensive than average. Others, such as Kirkland and Merrick are more affordable. No matter your budget, you will be able to find a food that meets your dog’s nutritional needs without breaking the bank.

Where to Buy the Best Brands of Dry Dog Food

Some of the best brands of dry dog food and canned food can be found at national pet supply chains, such as Petsmart. Others may only be available from smaller boutiques or through your vet’s office.

If there is a particular food that you are interested in, but cannot find it in your area, you may be able to purchase the food online. Many of the best brands of dog food are available through online retailers or, in some cases, directly from the manufacturer.

The best dog food for your dog may be different than for other dogs. When in doubt, ask your vet for advice.

Learn if wheat free dog food could solve some of your pet’s medical issues. Many dogs have wheat allergies and wheat free dog food can relieve many symptoms.

Wheat Free Dog Food

Most of the very top rated top rated dog foods are grain free. Dogs in the wild would not have grain in their diet, so it is not a necessary part of any dog’s diet. While wheat is not necessarily harmful to a dog, many dogs have a wheat allergy that can manifest in any number of ways.

Does Your Pet Need Wheat Free Dog Food?

A wheat allergy can cause many symptoms in your pet. It is not uncommon for a wheat allergy to go unnoticed or undiagnosed. Some pet owners write off some of the symptoms as being nothing to worry about. Others attribute them to something other than a wheat allergy. Some possible wheat allergy symptoms are listed below.

• Dull coat
• Itchy skin
• Inflammation in the ears
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Asthma like breathing symptoms
• Excessive gas
• Sneezing
• Seizures

As you can see, some dog food allergy symptoms are much more serious than others. While no pet owner would ignore seizures, it is easy to dismiss excessive gas.

If you think your dog might have a wheat allergy, speak to your vet. If your pet does have this food allergy, the problem is easily fixed by choosing wheat free dog food.

Wheat Free Dog Food Brands

Several dog food manufacturers offer wheat free dog food. As mentioned above, many of the very top brands are grain free or offer grain free options, but just because a food is wheat free does not necessarily make it the best choice. You still have to do some research to be sure that the food is of a high quality and will meet all of the nutritional needs of your pet.

Some of the dog food brands that offer wheat free dog foods are:

• Orijen
• Evo
• Back to Basics
• Eukanuba

Most of the raw diet dog foods also offer grain free varieties. Not every product by these dog food manufacturers will be wheat free, so it is important to read the label to be sure that you are providing the proper food for your dog.

Where to Buy Wheat Free Dog Food

Finding wheat fee dog food is easy. Most pet supply stores, such as Petco and PetSmart, will have a variety of grain free options. Most smaller pet boutiques and vet’s offices will also sell a selection of wheat free dog foods.

If you cannot find the brand that you want near you, you will probably be able to order it online either through the company’s own Web site or through an online retailer. Keep in mind that if you order online, you will have to pay extra for shipping costs.

Wheat free dog food is a good choice for any dog, but a necessity for those with certain wheat allergies.

Are you looking for the best dry dog food? Learn the basics of dry dog food ratings including how dry dog food comparisons are made.

Dry Dog Food Ratings

The pet food that you choose will have a direct impact on the health of your dog. Dry dog food ratings are a big help because they allow you to choose a food based on the quality of ingredients and the nutritional balance.

Many of the grocery store dog foods are nothing more than empty calories. They make your dog feel full, but do not provide adequate nutrition. This can lead to health problems, obesity, skin problems and allergies.

Learn how dry dog food ratings can help you choose a food that will provide your dog with the best possible quality of life.

The Importance of Dry Dog Food Ratings

When choosing your pet food, it is important to pretty much ignore the marketing materials published by each of the dog food manufacturers. Of course they are going to paint their product in the best possible light. Instead of looking at marketing materials when trying to make a decision about which food to use, you should instead turn to dry dog food ratings.

These ratings include an analysis of the ingredients in the foods as well as an explanation about whether or not the food meets the nutritional of your pet.

How to Compare Dry Dog Foods

Below are some of the most important considerations when you are choosing a dry dog food.

·        Ingredients – Learning to understand the ingredients label on a bag of dry dog food will go a long way in helping you understand dry dog food ratings. You want to see whole foods, starting with a named protein source. While many dog foods include grain, that is not something that dogs require. For that reason, many of the best dog foods are grain-free. Generally, you want to see a good amount of meat. The protein ideally will come from a named source. For example “chicken” rather than “meat”.

·        Protein – The amount of protein required depends on the life stage of your dog. That is why there are usually separate formulas for puppies. For adult dogs, you want to see protein of at least 30%.

·        Carbohydrates -  The amount of carbohydrates needed depends on the age, activity level and weight of your dog. This is an important consideration, so you should ask your vet which percentage is correct for your pet.

·        Fat – Like humans, dogs need some fat. But unless you want a pudgy pooch, look for a food with no more than a 25% fat content.

·        Controversial Ingredients – The jury is still out on some controversial ingredients while others are known to be nutritionally useless.

The Best Dry Dog Food Ratings

There is no one dog food that is “best”. Instead, there are several high quality dry dog food brands, such as Innova dog food and Solid Gold dog food, that meet or exceed all of the quality standards discussed above.

Once you narrow down your list of foods that are nutritionally sound, you can choose based on other factors such as price and availability.

Learn why paying for house sitting may be a great alternative to boarding your pet. Also, discover what factors should determine your house sitting rates.

Overnight House Sitters

Some pet owners are very uneasy with the idea of leaving their dog or cat at a kennel or other type of boarding facility. For these pet parents, a good alternative is an overnight house sitter. This article will discuss house sitting rates, and things to consider when choosing a house/pet sitter.

House Sitting Rates of Pay

You will find that the house sitting rates of pay vary widely based on several factors including:

·        Location - Your location will have a big impact on house sitting fees. For example, house sitting rates in Seattle will likely be much different that house sitting rates in a small town.

·        Type of Business – The rate will be lower for a college kid trying to housesit to earn extra money than it would be for a bona fide business.

·        Services offered – You will pay more for someone to keep up with basic housework and yard work than you will for a college kid who is basically just going to crash at your house and make sure your dogs have food and water.

House Sitting Services: How to Choose

How you choose a house sitting service really depends on what you want, but there are some things that you should consider.

·        Cost – Cost is certainly going to be a factor for many people, but you should not necessarily hand off the caring of your home and pets to the lowest bidder. Still, if you know a reliable young person that may be a good option.

·        Reliability – When you hire someone to care for your pets, reliability is probably the most important consideration. What if they choose not to show up one day? What would happen to your pets? For this reason, it might be a good idea to choose someone who runs a business house sitting rather than the kid from down the street.

·        References – Whoever you choose, ask for references. Then, take the time to check those references. If you hear anything less than glowing reviews, you might want to find another house sitter.

House Sitting Fees: Extras

Some house sitting businesses will offer extra services for an extra fee. Such services may include:

·        Washing the dog

·        Extra walks

·        Yard work

·        Vet visits

Be sure that you are clear about what is, and what is not allowed. For example, do you want the house sitter to take the dog to the dog park? Is it ok if they have anyone else in the house? Are certain rooms off-limits to the dog? Should the dog be supervised at all times when in the yard? All of these things must be discussed before you leave your house sitter alone with your pet.

Overnight house sitters are, for some, a good alternative to using a dog boarding facility. Just be sure to choose your house sitter wisely.

Learn how easy it is to build a cat tree using free cat tree plans. Include sisal rope so your cat will have a scratching surface on his diy cat tree.

If you have been shopping for cat condos for some of your furry family members, then you know that they can be expensive. Another option to give your cat a fun climbing structure is to learn how to build a cat tree rather than buying one.

It is easier than you might think, and there are a few good reasons to take on this project.

Why Build Your Own Cat Tree?

A cat tree provides a place for your cat to climb, play and snooze. Some pet owners are surprised when they see how quickly their feline family members take to hanging out in their cat condo. Also, by attaching some sisal rope on one of the posts, it also provides a great scratching surface which can save your walls, carpets and furniture.

There are many reasons to consider building your own cat condo instead of buying one.

·        Cost – As mentioned above, cat condos can be a bit pricey. When you choose a diy cat tree, you can build one for much less money.

·        Color – When you buy a cat condo from a pet supply store, you will usually find limited color choices. If you want a cat tree that will match the other décor in a particular room, building your own gives you the most options.

·        Size – A diy cat tower also gives you complete freedom to choose one that fits perfectly in the designated space.

·        Fun – This is a fun project, especially if you have kids that can work on the project with you. It is something that can be completed in one afternoon.

Free Cat Tree Plans

You can easily find free cat tree plans by doing a simple internet search. Another option is to check a craft book out of a local library that includes plans for building a cat tree.

Build Your Own Cat Tree: Are Special Skills Required?

While you will have to know how to handle basic tools, there are no special skills required to build a simple cat tree. You can even buy kits that come with precut pieces, so all that you will have to do is build the cat condo with no cutting or measuring required.

The free cat tree plans that do require cutting will require careful measuring, but even with that it is a fairly simple project. If, however, you have zero confidence in your ability to handle cutting the pieces, or worry that you will not be able to measure correctly, it would be better to choose a kit with precut pieces.

No matter what kind of cat tree plans that you choose, you will probably be surprised at how easy it is to complete this project.

There are many possible causes for sneezing in cats and coughing in cats. Learn some of the most commons causes as well as advice about when to see a vet.

Sneezing in Cats

While you might think it is cute when your cat sneezes, excessive sneezing in cats could signify a serious medical condition. Read below for some common causes of sneezing and coughing in cats.

Keep in mind that some of the reasons are more serious than others, but none of them mean that your cat is going to pass away anytime soon, so don’t be alarmed if you notice sneezing in your cat.

Sneezing in Cats: Causes

There are several possible causes for sneezing in cats. Below are some of the most common.

·        Feline Leukemia – A cat suffering from feline leukemia will not have a strong enough immune system to fight off common ailments that can cause sneezing

·        Feline Herpesvirus – As is the case with humans with herpes, the disease cycles through periods of remission and activity. If you notice constant sneezing in your cat for a couple of weeks followed by no symptoms for several weeks, the cat could have feline herpesvirus.

·        Dust, Pollen and Mold – Some cats are simply more sensitive to these irritants.

·        Tooth Infection – If your cat has dental issues, particularly a tooth infection, it is easy for that infection to spread to the sinuses, causing sneezing.

·        Aromatics – Some cats sneeze when they are exposed to candles or air fresheners.

Coughing Cats

Sneezing and coughing in cats sometimes go hand in hand, but not always. Below are some of the most common reason for coughing cats.

·        Asthma – Wheezing will also be present in coughing caused by asthma.

·        Bronchitis – If your cat coughs after periods of physical exertion, bronchitis could be the cause.

·        Heartworms – Weight loss and lethargy along with a cough could be symptoms that your cat has heartworms.

Sneezing Cats: When to See a Vet

Dealing with the reason for sneezing in cats or coughing in your cat can be scary. No one wants to face the fact that their cat could be very sick. Still, putting off a trip to the vet can make things much worse, especially if your cat is not eating.

If you know that your cat has one of the conditions mentioned above, then you can ask your vet in advance how to react during periods when the cat is coughing or sneezing.

If you do not know the reason for the coughing or sneezing then you must visit the vet as soon as you notice the symptoms. Remember, most cats are not complainers. They will just move on through their day, making it difficult for owners to even know anything is wrong.

When you DO notice symptoms, such as sneezing or coughing, do not ignore them. The sooner that you learn the reason for sneezing or coughing in your cat, the sooner you can find an appropriate treatment.

Learn how easy it is to potty train a cat or potty train a kitten. Also, discover how to toilet train a cat, so you can get rid of your litter box.

Potty Training a Cat

If you have a new cat, you might be nervous about the prospect of potty training your cat. The good news is that most cats pick this up without much work on your part.

Since scratching around in the litter feels like what they would do in nature, it often takes no more than just showing the cat where the litter box is located. Even when you potty train a kitten it can be this easy.

Litter Box Train a Cat

Below are a few tips and tricks to make it even easier to litter box train a cat or potty train a kitten.

·        One Spot – Put the box in the spot where you plan to leave it. Once the box is full of clean kitty litter, simply toss your cat or kitten in there.

·        No Competition – Remove anything that looks or feels like litter such as potted plants. Once you are sure the cat is litter box trained, you can put the plants back.

·         Keep it Clean – Most cats and kittens will refuse to use a dirty litter box, so be sure to scoop it out every day and change the litter completely about once a week.

Toilet Train Cat

You may have heard of some pet owners who decided to toilet train their cat. Many people are surprised to learn that this is even a possibility. It is done by buying a special litter box that fits over the toilet seat. Once the cat gets used to going in that spot, you remove the litter tray. The thinking is that the cat will then start to go to the bathroom directly in the toilet.

So, does it work? Sometimes! Some cats will stop going there once they realize that the litter is gone. Others, however, will use the toilet.

Teaching them to flush, however, is another matter.

Litter Box Train an Indoor/Outdoor Cat

Some may wonder if there is a need to litter train a cat that is both an indoor and an outdoor cat. While most the time such a cat will do his or her business outside, it is still a good idea potty train the cat.

That way when circumstances arise in which the cat cannot go outdoors right away, such as bad weather, he or she will use the litter box rather than making a mess somewhere in the house.

Keep in mind that an outdoor cat will be ever more drawn to houseplants, because he or she will be used to digging in the dirt. Still, as long as they are properly introduced to the litter box, and reintroduced now and then if they don’t use it very often, you should have no problems getting your outdoor cat to use the litter box.

Learn how to choose the best dog food for pitbulls. Discover a bit about quality brands like Innova Evo and Timberwolf Organics.

Best Dog Food for Pitbulls

Many people are under the false impression that pitbulls are very much unlike other dogs. “What is the best dog food for pitbulls?”, “What vaccinations are required for pitbulls?” and other similar questions are common.

The fact is that pitbulls are just dogs. While the media wants to portray them as evil offshoots of man’s best friend, they really are just dogs. They have the same needs as every other canine.

Best Dog Food for Pitbulls: Brands

So what type of food should you feed a hungry pitbull? The answer would be the same no matter the breed: You should feed a food that is made with high quality ingredients and that provides all of the needed nutrition. Below are some examples of high quality dog foods.

·        Innova Evo – This food is an “enhanced raw food” diet. Some dogs with allergies do well on a raw food diet.

·        Timberwolf Organics – All organic ingredients, lots of meat and no grain make this a great choice. Like many high quality dog foods, it is based on the diet that dogs would eat in the wild.

·        Orijens – This food consistently scored high marks on reviews. The very high quality or the ingredients and the diet based on a natural canine diet make it a quality choice.

These are not the only quality brands. There are many. The best way to know if you are choosing a quality dog food is to become familiar with dog food labels so that you will know what to look for, and which ingredients to avoid.

Best Dog Food for Pitbulls: Activity Level

One of the considerations when choosing a dog food is not the breed, but the activity level of your pet. Some pitbulls are nothing more than lazy lap dogs. Others are extremely active.

An active dog is going to require a different type of food than a less active dog.

Another consideration is whether your pitbull is overweight. If he is, then you will want to choose a food that is especially formulated to help your dog shed those extra pounds.

Is There Really a “Best Dog Food for Pitbulls”?

As you have probably guessed by reading the above information, there is no dog food that is going to be the best choice for every pitbull. Neither is there any such thing as a best dog food for rottweilers, best dog food for American bulldogs of best dog food for boxers.

While there are high quality foods that will be among the top contenders regardless of breed, the final decision about which food is best must be based on the individual’s dogs overall health, activity level and other factors.

If you are not sure which food is best for your pitbull, talk to your vet. He or she will be able to make recommendations based on the health, weight and activity level of your pet.

Looking for the best food for your dog? Discover how to choose which food is best with this premium dog food comparison.

Premium Dog Food Comparisons

When trying to decide on which dog food to give your pet, you should take the time to learn about the various quality dog food brands so that you can make an informed decision. Premium dog food comparisons will show that just because a brand is considered “premium” and has a premium price that does not necessarily mean it is the best choice.

Read below for some advice about how to separate the leaders of the dog food pack from the lesser quality brands.

Types of Premium Dog Food Ratings

One way to do a premium dog food comparison is to read the dog food ratings. There are basically three types of ratings.

·        Consumer – Consumer ratings are those completed by other users of the products. They may discuss how well the dog liked the food, how easy it was to find and whether they noted any digestive issues. These reviews are purely opinion, and usually do not contain factual information about quality of ingredients and balance of nutrients.

·        Promotional – These are reviews written and distributed by the maker of the dog food. Obviously, these will highlight only the most positive aspects of their dog food brand while leaving out any information about the use of controversial ingredients.

·        Expert – This is the type of rating that analyzes the types of ingredients used, the balance of nutrients and whether or not any questionable ingredients are used.

Asking Your Vet for Pet Food Advice

Another way to assist in your premium dog food comparison is to ask your vet for advice. Keep in mind that your vet likely sells certain brands of dog food and therefore stands to profit if those foods are sold. Still, if you have a vet that you know you can trust, asking him or her for advice is a good idea.

 The Best Dog Food for Your Pet

The best dog food for your pet may be different than the best dog food for another pet. Each dog is different and has slightly different needs. When choosing the best dog food for your pet, you must consider factors such as weight, age and activity level. Also, if the dog has any type of medical issues, those must be taken into consideration as well.

Learning to read the dog food labels, and knowing which ingredients are questionable versus which are of a high quality, is the best way to do a premium dog food comparison. This will allow you to do your own research rather than having to rely solely on reviews.

Still, the expert reviews breakdown the ingredients in each type of dog food, and this is very helpful when you are trying to make your choice about which dog food is best for your pet.

Learn what the term “human grade dog food” means. Also, find out which dog food brands, such as Eukanuba, Canidae, and Halo, offer human grade formulas.

Human Grade Dog Food

The term “human grade dog food” refers to dog food that contains only ingredients that could legally be sold for consumption by humans. As you can imagine, the cost of producing such high quality dog food is much greater than the cost of producing dog food made with inferior ingredients.

For that reason, there are only a handful of dog food manufacturers that make dog food with human grade ingredients. Still, for many pet owners, the extra cost to purchase human grade dog food is well worth it as they only want the very best for their pets.

Human Grade Dog Food: Sample Ingredients

If you want to find a sampling of ingredients that may be found in human grade dog food simply look inside your own pantry or freezer.

·        Chicken

·        Beef

·        Fish

·        Rice

·        Vegetables

Some pet owners who want their dog to eat only human grade ingredients skip the pet food and simply prepare meals for their pets from items that they buy at the grocery store.

If you plan to try this approach, it is VERY important that you first consult with your vet so that you can get advice about which types of food to give your pet as well as the correct quantities.

Brands of Human Grade Dog Food

Some of the manufacturers that offer human grade food include:

·        Eukanuba – Not all Eukanuba food is human grade, but some formulas are. This is a less expensive option than some of the others.

·        Canidae – Once a leader in quality dog food, this food has undergone some changes to their formulas. Still, they do offer a human grade formula that does well in reviews.

·        The Honest Kitchen – This brand of dog food offers high quality options, and typically gets very good reviews.

One important thing to note is that just because a certain brand offers human-grade dog food formulas; that does NOT mean that every food they sell is made with human grade ingredients. Be sure to check the exact food that you plan to purchase rather than choosing solely based on a brand.

Your vet can probably offer suggestions about which brand may be best for your pet.

Cost of Human Grade Dog Food

While the cost of human grade dog food is greater than for lesser quality food, it is not as cost prohibitive as you might think. While some brands of dog food can cost up to $100 per bag, there are other human grade dog food options that cost as little as $35 per bag.

Does your pet NEED to eat human grade food? No. Neither does he need to eat organic, hormone-free or non-processed foods. Each of these options, however, is healthier than the alternatives.

Learn how to take care of a cat & how to care for a kitten with this guide. Discover why caring for a stray cat is different than caring for a domestic cat.

How to Take Care of a Cat

Some say that learning how to take care of a cat is easier than caring for a dog. This is, in part, due to the fact that cats tend to be more self-sufficient. Yes, you will have to clean the litter box, but you will not have to take the cats on walks each day. Also, cats won’t care too much if you are gone for many hours a day, while some dogs will have a hard time with that.

How to Take Care of a Cat: The Basics

Food and Water – The most obvious aspect of caring for a cat is providing food and water. Clean, fresh water should be available at all times. Food should be of a high quality, rather than the “grocery store” food that doesn’t have all of the proper nutrients. Be sure to feed in correct amounts so that your cat will not become overweight.

Litter – Be sure to clean the litter box daily. Failing to do so can lead to illness in your cat. Also, if the box is dirty, the cat may not use it.

Health – Annual visits to the vet are vital for your cat’s good health. Also, any illnesses or injuries should be addressed right away.

Play – Providing toys and climbing surfaces, and making time to play with your cat, is another important part of how to take care of a cat. This will help the cat stay in shape. It will also help you bond with your pet.

How to Take Care of a Kitten

How to take care of a kitten will depend on the age of the kitten. If you get a kitten that has been properly weaned, then it is not much different than caring for a cat, except in the amount of food given and taking extra care around the tiny creature.

If, however, the kitten has not been properly weaned, then you will need to provide milk and wean the kitten yourself. This process is not especially hard, but it is vital to the kitten’s survival.

Visit a vet who will be able to tell you the approximate age of the kitten and give you advice about how much milk to feed and when to start to move to a mixture of formula and soft food and finally just to food.

How to Take Care of a Stray Cat

Caring for stray cats is not the same as caring for a domesticated cat. Some of these cats have no interest in becoming “indoor” cats. If, however, you do decide to bring one in, it is VERY important to keep them away from your other pets until a vet has given them a clean bill of health.

There are conflicting opinions about whether to feed stray cats. Some say it will just draw more. Others say that it can hinder the cat’s hunting skills. It is a tough call, but you will have to come to a personal decision about how little or how much to do for stray cats near you.

Learning how to care for a cat is not hard, and the rewards of having a feline pet are well worth the effort.

Learn how sensitive stomach dog food can easily correct digestive problems. Eukanuba, Science Diet & Nutro Natural Choice all make sensitive stomach dog foods.

Sensitive Stomach Dog Food

Sometimes, even when you choose a high quality dog food, you will find that it can still upset your dog’s stomach. You may need to choose a sensitive stomach dog food.

Several dog food makers offer such a formula, but finding the right one for your pet may take some trial and error.

Does Your Dog Need Sensitive Stomach Dog Food?

If your dog gets ill once or twice, that might not point to him having a sensitive stomach. It could just be something temporary that is causing the problem. If, however, he gets sick repeatedly after eating, then you will need to talk to your vet about the possibility that your dog has a sensitive stomach and may need to be put on a special diet.

The good news is that if your dog has a sensitive stomach, the problems associated with that can usually be corrected by simply switching dog foods.

Choosing the Best Sensitive Stomach Dog Food

As mentioned above, there are several dog food makers, such as Science Diet, Eukanuba and Nutro Natural Choice, that offer a formula for pets with a sensitive stomach. But not every food will be right for every dog.

·        Triggers – Most dogs with a sensitive stomach have trigger foods that will bring on the problems. These triggers will be different for each dog. For one it could be wheat, for another beef or fish. The only way to know your dog’s triggers is to start to keep a journal of the ingredients in his food. If the food you currently use is making your dog sick, write down the ingredients and try a food with a different list of ingredients. Ideally, by removing or changing only one ingredient at a time, you will be able to pinpoint the dog’s trigger to one food which can then be avoided.

·        Ingredients – Once you have pinpointed the trigger, you will need to find sensitive stomach dog food that does not include that ingredient.

·        Trial Period – Hopefully, the two steps above will correct the problem. Only buy a small supply of the dog food until you know that it is going to help. If, during this short trial period, your dog becomes ill again, you will not be stuck with a bag of food that your dog cannot eat.

Where to Buy Sensitive Stomach Dog Food

Many brands of sensitive stomach dog food can be purchased at pet supply stores. If you need a less common type of food, you may have to purchase it through your vet.

Having a sensitive stomach does not necessarily mean that there is anything else wrong with your pet. Just as many humans have sensitivities to certain foods, so can dogs. By just removing that food, the problem is usually solved.

Learn where to buy cat climbers and how cat climbing trees can help your cat stay in shape. Also learn about DIY cat towers and other cat furniture.

Cat Climbers

Cat climbers, also called kitty condos, cat trees and cat towers, are basically pieces of furniture just for your cat. The purpose of cat climbers, as the name implies, is for your cat to have a place to jump, climb and scratch without having to use your furniture.

Many pet owners are surprised to see that their cats are very attracted to the cat towers. Cats enjoy the way that the covering of most cat climbers, typically carpet, feels as they climb and scratch. The fact that there is usually two to three levels allow the cat to get up off of the floor, which many cats seem to enjoy.

Cat Gym: A Kitty Workout

Cats are known for being a bit lazy but cats, like people, need to move in order to stay healthy. A cat climber gives a cat a place to do that. Of course, jumping onto the top level for a nine hour cat nap isn’t exactly an aerobic workout.

Look for a climber that has toys dangling, sisal wrapped posts and anything else that will entice the cat to get moving.

Where to Buy Cat Furniture

It is easy to find cat climbers and other cat furniture. Most pet supply stores will have a selection of cat trees and cat climbers. Because there is only so much floor space in such stores, the selection will be limited, but you might find just what you are looking for.

If not, move your search online. Online retailers and auctions sites are a wonderful place to find a huge selection of cat furniture.

If you cannot find what you are looking for at a reasonable price, another option is to make your own cat climber. Making DIY cat climbers and other cat furniture is a popular project that is easier than you might think.

DIY Cat Furniture

Don’t be intimated by the prospect of making DIY cat furniture.

·        Easy – Sure, you will have to use basic tools, but you do not have to be skilled in woodworking or carpentry to create a cat climber.

·        Less Expensive – When you do it yourself, you can save hundreds of dollars over the cost of buying a readymade cat climber.

·        More Options – You will have freedom to choose the colors that you want as well as to add options, such as sisal wrapped posts, cushioned platforms and more.

·        Kits – Another DIY option is to purchase a kit. Cat furniture kits include everything that you will need to make a cat tower. The wood is precut, so no measuring or cutting is required.

Cat climbers are a wonderful thing to have in any home with cats. It gives them their own space and will, hopefully, spare your furniture from the wrath of the cat’s claws.

Learn the best tips for bathing a cat and bathing a kitten. Also discover the best cat bathing supplies including shampoos, towels, wipes and powders!

Bathing a Cat

Bathing a cat is usually not a lot of fun. The good news is that it doesn’t have to happen very often. In fact some cat owners never bathe their cat. Most cats are very good at keeping themselves clean, but every now and then it may be a good idea to help clean up your cat.

Washing a Cat

While bathing a cat is the most thorough means of washing a cat, there are simpler methods as well.

·        Powders – Powders, which are sold at many pet supply stores, are essentially a dry shampoo. You need only sprinkle the powder on your cat, rub it into the fur and then brush it out.

·        Wipes – Cat wipes, also sold at pet supply stores, will remove much of the dander and loose dirt. That makes using wipes on a daily basis a good idea for those with cat allergies.

Here are some tips for those who choose to give your cat a more traditional bath.

·        Be Ready – Make sure that you have all of the needed supplies within easy reach of the bathtub or large sink. You will need towels, shampoo and a comb or brush.

·        Have a Partner – Bathing a cat will be MUCH easier if you have a second person. One person can hold the cat still while the other does the washing.

·        Avoid the Face – While most cats are not going to enjoy bath time at all, if you REALLY want to see them freak out, put water on their face. For this reason, avoid the face. Consider using wipes to clean the face or, if you must wash it, save it until the very end of the bath.

·        Brush – You will need to brush your cat once he or she has been towel dried. Long haired cats will need to be brushed periodically throughout the drying process until the fur is completely dry. This will help to lessen the chance of the fur becoming matted.

·        Drying – If possible, provide a small heater in the room where your cat will spend time until he or she is completely dry.

Bathing a Kitten

Washing a kitten is not a good idea, and should only be done if absolutely necessary. If the kitten is so filthy that wipes will not do the trick, follow the above tips to bathe a kitten, but avoid getting any soap in the kitten’s face.

Also, be sure that the kitten is completely dry before being allowed in any areas where they may be subjected to a draft.

Cat Bathing Supplies

·        Shampoo – Be sure to choose a shampoo that is specially formulated for use on cats. Do not use dog or human shampoo on your cat.

·        Brush – The brush that you use after a bath may need to have wider bristles than your normal brush or comb.

·        Towels – Look for towels that are extra absorbent. There are towels that promise to wick the water from your hair after shampooing. Using such a towel on your cat will speed up the drying process.

·        Wipes/Powders – If you choose to use wipes or powder, ONLY use products that were specifically created for use on cats.

Discover why holistic dog food brands are the best choice for your pet. Find out why foods such as Evo dog food and Innova dog food earn the highest ratings.

Holistic Dog Food Brands

When you choose holistic dog food, you are making a decision to feed your dog only the best possible food. There are many holistic dog food brands, but they are similar in the quality of ingredients that they use. Typically, holistic dog food will contain only human grade ingredients that are hormone-free and usually organic. Also included are ingredients that work together to improve and protect the overall health of dogs such as probiotics, antioxidants and omega 3’s.

What is NOT included is just as important as what IS included. In holistic dog foods, you will not find any chemical preservatives or controversial ingredients such as meat byproducts.

Examples of Holistic Dog Food Brands

There are several brands of holistic dog food on the market.

·        Evo Dog Food

·        Blue Buffalo Dog Food

·        Innova Dog Food

·        Solid Gold Dog Food

Many of the brands listed above are easy to find both at pet supply stores and online. The cost of the holistic dog food brands is more than that of a lesser quality food. Some of the very top brands can cost up to $100 a bag. Happily, there are holistic options that cost much less than that. You should also keep in mind that your dog will probably eat much less of a holistic food, because all of his nutritional needs will be met.

Keep in mind that just because a particular brand offers holistic food that does not necessarily mean that every food that they make is holistic. Be sure to read the label and read reviews of the particular food that you are considering rather than just about the brand as a whole.

Holistic Dog Food Ratings

Holistic dog foods almost always earn the highest possible ratings. This is because of the quality of ingredients that are used in making the food and the controversial ingredients that are left out.

The makers of such dog food also work to develop an appropriate balance of protein, carbohydrates and fat which also helps to boost the ratings of this food.

Where to Buy Holistic Dog Food Brands

In some areas, it used to be more difficult to find holistic, natural dog foods. There was not as much demand for it as there is now, and people were not willing to pay more for a dog food just because it was labeled holistic.

As more and more pet owners began to learn the value of feeding a holistic diet, pet supply stores began to carry at least one holistic dog food brand. PetSmart and other popular pet supply chains will carry some holistic dog food, but if you cannot find the brand that you want, you can turn to online retailers where the selections are much more expansive

Discover why Healthwise dog food is a great choice. Also learn about the many Healthwise formulas so you can choose the right one for your pooch!

Healthwise Dog Food

The food that you choose to feed your dog can make a huge difference in the overall health and lifespan of your furry family members. Properly feeding a quality food, such as Healthwise dog food, can keep your dog fit and help to prevent many common medical issues.

There are other quality dog foods, such as Nutro, Canidae and Merrick, so you need to do some research to decide which is best for your pet.

Healthwise Dog Food: Why it’s a Good Choice

As a pet owner, it is important to learn which ingredients can be found in a quality dog food. When you learn to read the dog food labels, you can always be confident that you are feeding your pet a nutritious diet.

Healthwise dog food uses good ingredients, but it does not use the best ingredients on the market. Yes, the absolute top brands may use only human-quality, organic ingredients, but not everyone can afford to pay up to $100 for a bag of dog food.

Healthwise dog food is a sensible choice for those who want a fine quality dog food at a more reasonable price.

Using the chicken flavored adult dog food as an example, let’s look at the first few ingredients.

·        Chicken meal – Ideally the first ingredient would be just “chicken”. Still, chicken meal contains about 300% more protein and is an acceptable substitute.

·        Oatmeal – While many prefer a grain-free dog food, if you do choose a food that contains grain, look for one with a whole grain, such as oatmeal.

·        Chicken fat – This might not sound like a good dog food ingredient, but the truth is that chicken fat contains some of the omega fatty acids that are required for optimal health.

Healthwise Dog Food Formulas

There are six selections of Healthwise pet food formulas. In addition to the adult dog varieties, Healthwise also offers:

·        Active Adult – This formula provides extra energy for dogs that are always on the move.

·        Weight Control – Keeping your dog at a proper weight is very important for good health. This food helps dogs shed those extra pounds.

·        Puppy – Helping puppies grow into healthy adults

·        Cat and Kitten – Healthwise also provides quality options for your feline friends.

Healthwise Dog Food Coupons

Check the Healthwise pet food Web site for coupons and other special deals that will be posted from time to time. You can also check at your pet food supply store where Healthwise is sold.

Healthwise dog food is one of the quality options available for a reasonable price. If you care about the health of your pet, then do enough research to know how to choose a healthy dog food. Doing so can actually extend the life of your four-legged friends.

Learn tips to stop a puppy biting problem. Puppy biting solutions are easier than you think and with a few quick tips your puppy will behave like an angel.

Puppy Biting Problem

Some new pet owners do not see puppy biting as a problem. After all, it doesn’t hurt and it’s so cute when the puppy chews on your hand. But the puppy biting problems starts when the puppy begins to grow; when his teeth are bigger, and his jaws more powerful.

You do not want to wait until then to start training your puppy not to bite. In fact, it is never too soon to learn to stop puppy biting.

Stop Puppy Biting

The sooner you start, the easier it will be to stop puppy biting. Here are some tips.

·        Stop Play – Puppies love to play, so one way to get their attention is to stop playing with them. As soon as your puppy bites or nips at you, make a loud noise, such as “OW”, and stop playing. Walk away from the puppy and do something else for a while before paying attention to the puppy again.

·        Shake – Most puppies will have an aversion to loud noises. Fill a can with pennies and keep it handy. Anytime your puppy bites or nips, grab the can and shake it. After a while, the puppy will start to associate the loud and annoying noise with biting.

·        Avoid Rough Play – This is a tough one for some pet owners. As mentioned above, many people think it is just adorable when puppies act all rough and tough. The problem is that when the dog gets bigger – especially larger breed dogs – it will be much more difficult to control them. Avoid rough play from the start.

·         It’s NEVER Ok – As is the case with any type of training, consistency is key. It cannot be ok to bite and nip one minute and not ok the next. Be consistent.

Puppy Chewing Problem

In addition to puppy biting, puppy chewing is also a problem. It does not take long for an energetic puppy to reduce a respectable shoe collection to shreds. Here are some tips for dealing with a puppy chewing problem.

·        Acceptable Chewing – Puppies must chew. You cannot stop the behavior entirely. Instead, you must redirect the puppies chewing to an appropriate object. Provide lots of chew toys for your pet. The second that you catch him chewing on something on which he should not, say “NO”, and then give him the chew toy.

·        Out of Reach – Until the time that your puppy has been trained, you must keep objects, such as your shoes, your term paper and the family Bible out of his reach. He’s just a puppy! Until he is trained to chew only on his toys, take some extra care with your belongings.

Puppy Training

While most pet owners are able to find a puppy biting solution at home, some stubborn or hard to train pets may need some professional help. Find an obedience class or work with a professional dog trainer. Doing so will give you the skills needed to work with your dog to solve obedience issues throughout his life.

Learn how to choose the best cat climbing tower and where to buy them, such as Petco and PetSmart. Also, learn where to buy plans to build your own cat condo.

Cat Climbing Tower

Cats like to scratch and cats like to climb. A quality cat climbing tower can give a cat a place to satisfy both of those basic needs. Sometimes called cat condos or kitty condos, cat climbing towers typically have two or three levels on which the cat can climb. There are often interior cubbies where the cat can hide and take a nap as well as a scratching surface.

Cat Climbing Towers: How to Choose

There are many styles of cat climbing towers. Below are some things to consider when choosing one.

·        Size – The overall size of the cat climbing tower is important for an obvious reason: You need a room big enough to accommodate it. Some of the structures are quite large. If you are dealing with limited space, it is a good idea to bring along a tape measure when shopping for your cat condo.

·        Levels – For most cats, the ideal kitty condo will have three levels. This allows lots of room to jump and play. If you have a senior cat or one that has trouble climbing and jumping, you may want to opt for a single level or one with only two levels.

·        Color – If the cat climbing tower is to be in a public area of the house, you may want to try to find one that looks good with the other items in the room. Because cat climbing towers are available in various colors, this should not be too difficult.

·        Scratching Surface – You definitely want the cat climbing tower to have a scratching surface made of sisal or a similar material. If your cat condo does not have such a surface, you can add one by simply wrapping one of the posts with sisal.

Cat Climbing Tower: Where to Buy

Many pet retailers, such as Petco and PetSmart, carry a selection of cat climbing towers. You can also find a smaller selection at some big box stores.  While Petco and PetSmart might not have a huge selection of cat climbing towers in stock, they do have a catalog from which you can choose additional styles and color.

Some are a bit surprised when they see the cost of cat climbing towers and other cat climbing furniture. A small cat condo will usually start at about $50 and larger models can cost several hundreds.

Cat Climbing Tower Plan

Another option is to build your own cat climbing tower. This will allow you to build a tower that is the right size for your room and in colors that will match your other décor.

Plans can be found at many online retailers. You can choose between purchasing only the plans or entire kits that contain everything that you will need to complete the project.

You will need basic tools, but no special skills are required to complete the project using cat climbing tower plans.

5. Dog rescued from Japan tsunami sees owner again
After seeing the amazing rescue of her dog from a floating rooftop on television, one woman couldn’t wait to get back to the shelter to meet her lucky pup.

4. 11-year-old cat reunited with 10-year-old boy
With their cat Clyde being missing for 12 days, this family thought Clyde was a goner. But a response to a Lost & Found ad changed everything…

3. Otis and owners both survive devastating car accident, but Otis goes missing for 7 days
After a brutal car crash, the hospital-bound owners of Otis the Boston Terrier wondered what had become of their 3-year-old Boston terrier who was lost in a coyote-dense area.

2. Christian the Lion remembers his ‘dads’ even after living in the wild
OK, so a lion isn’t exactly a pet. But in 1969, it was legal to buy a lion cub. As the cub grew, his two owners realized he needed to be returned to the wild. But even a year after his release, the lion still remembers can’t wait to ‘hug’ the men who raised him.

1. Gracie the pound dog reunited with returning solider
With over 3.5 million views, this amazing video is the whole world’s favorite reunion story. Gracie can’t believe her eyes as she sees her solider owner return from war, and you won’t either.

Ol’ Roy dog food isn’t a healthy choice for your pet. The best dog foods contain real meat and no fillers. Ol’ Roy dog food doesn’t meet these minimum standards.

Ol’ Roy Dog Food

Ol’ Roy dog food is both made and sold by Wal-Mart. The Wal-Mart shelves also stock other brands of dog food, such as Pedigree dog food and Purina dog food, but Ol’ Roy is the least expensive.

Unlike the best dog foods, this food uses cheap ingredients and makes no attempt to omit chemical preservatives and fillers.   

Ol’ Roy Dog Food Review

Both consumer reviews and reviews by organizations that review several brands of dog food give very low marks to Ol’ Roy dog food. Unlike the best dog food choices, this food does not contain a named source of protein. In fact, all of the ingredients are of inferior quality.

Does the food have some nutritional value? Yes. Much the way that a Big Mac may have some nutritional value. Ol’ Roy dog food is a bit like fast food: It will fill up your dog, but is not the healthiest choice.

Ol’ Roy Dog Food Ingredients

The very first ingredient in Ol’ Roy dog food is corn. That alone is problematic for two main reasons:

1. Protein source – The first ingredient in the dog food that you choose should be a named source of protein. For example, you want to see “chicken” or “salmon” not “meat”.
2. Corn free – The best dog foods will be corn-free. While most vegetables are fine to include in a dog food, many dogs have allergies to corn. Also, corn does not supply anything of significant nutritional value to your pet.

If you continue to read the ingredients label, you will notice that the only meats are by products. This means that the protein source in the food is made up of the leftover parts from the slaughterhouse. This could include beaks, feet and hide.

Ol’ Roy also contains ingredients that have been the source of controversy, such as a preservative called BHA. There are no quality ingredients in this dog food.

Ol’ Roy Dog Food Prices

After all that you have just read about Ol’ Roy dog food, it will be probably not come as much of a surprise that this is one the less expensive dogs foods on the market. It is easy to give in to the temptation to buy the cheapest dog food, but understand that by doing so, you may be depriving your dog of the nutrition that he needs to be at his or her healthiest.

Ol’ Roy dog food is not a very good choice for your pet. There are some fairly inexpensive choices that contain ingredients that are of a much higher quality. If you need some advice about which lower-cost dog food is best, consult your vet.

Learn why Chappie dog food may not be the best choice for your pet. While Chappie food is inexpensive, it lacks the nutrients found in better quality dog food.

Chappie Dog Food

Chappie dog food is sold in the UK and in Ireland. It has been on the market for over 70 years, and is quite popular among consumers who want a food that is very inexpensive and palatable to their pet.

While Chappie dog food has been in business for many years, when you compare Chappie dog food to other, higher quality dog foods, you will find many differences.

• First ingredient – In high quality dog foods, the very first ingredient listed on the label will be a named meat. For example, you should see “chicken” or “beef” not “meat”. The first ingredient on a Chappie dog food label would be a meat by product or a filler such as wheat or corn.
• Fillers – Better dog foods do not include fillers while cheap dog foods like Chappie use them in abundance.
• Corn – The best dog food brands do not include corn as it has no nutritional value for dogs and is difficult for some dogs to digest. All Chappie dog food includes corn.

Chappie Dog Food Review

Chappie dog food reviews tend to be quite mixed. Some consumers love the fact the food is easy to find and inexpensive. Those who analyze dog food fail to give it high marks because the ingredients are not the best choices for your dog.

If you were to ask your vet, he or she would likely advise you to choose a dog food that had a higher content of protein and less filler. Even if you cannot afford the top of the line dog food, there are better options that would only be slightly more expensive than Chappie dog food.

Chappie Dog Food Formulas

Chappie dog food comes in dry and wet formulas. It is packaged in bags, cans and pouches and comes in a variety of flavors.

A puppy formula is available, but the highly specialized formulas, such as you would be offered by higher quality brands, are not available.

Chappie Dog Food Prices

Chappie dog food is quite inexpensive when compared to some other brands of dog food. One reason for the lower price is that the ingredients are of a lesser quality. For example, Chappie dog food includes wheat and corn. Neither of those products will provide the nutrition that your dog needs. Some users, however, found that dogs that were refusing other food due to illness were willing to eat Chappie. In that case, you should talk to your vet. He might recommend providing Chappie dog food if it is the only thing that your dog will eat.

All of that being said, if you cannot afford a higher quality dog food, then Chappie will get the job done.

Learn how to choose a Bed and Biscuit Kennel, like Bed and Biscuit Austin, Bed and Biscuit Medford and Bed and Biscuit Black Mountain. Ask these vital questions.

Bed and Biscuit Kennel

Bed and Biscuit Kennel seems to be a popular choice for a name among small business owners who operate a doggy day care or boarding facility. While there are several businesses bearing this name throughout the country, most of them are not related to each other.

Therefore, each must be evaluated on their own merit. Read below for a list of some of the Bed and Biscuit Kennels found in various locations throughout the United States.

Bed and Biscuit Kennel Locations

• Bed and Biscuit Austin – This facility offers many services included grooming, doggy daycare, boarding and training. Located at 6004 City Park Road, Austin, TX 78730. Phone number is 512-343-0723.
• Bed and Biscuit Medford – Located at 3139 Route 112, Medford, NY 11763. Phone number is 631-451-8158.
• Bed and Biscuit Black Mountain – Billed as the “Ultimate Spa for Dogs & Cats”, this facility offers daycare, boarding and grooming. Located at 1420 North Fork Road, Black Mountain, North Carolina, 28711. Phone number is 828-669-6578.
• Tabernacle Bed and Biscuit New Jersey – Set on 45 acres, your dog will have plenty of room to run and play. Located at 46 Carranza Road, Tabernacle, New Jersey 08088. Phone number is 609-268-5700.

How to Choose a Bed and Biscuit Kennel

When looking for a Bed and Biscuit Kennel – or any kennel – there are some questions that you should always ask.

• Is there a vet on site?
• How many hours per day will the dog spend locked in the kennel?
• Are the dogs tested for aggressiveness before being allowed to romp and play with other dogs?
• How do they handle feeding?
• Are overnight potty breaks available?
• How is each staff member trained?

You should always check with past clients to be sure that they had a positive experience.

Tips for Boarding at a Bed and Biscuit Kennel

Leaving your dog at a kennel is a stressful time for both you and your pet.  Below are some tips to make it as easy on both humans and dogs as possible.

• No big show – When leaving your dog, it is tempting to want to make a big show of hugs and kisses. Don’t. Just leave. When you carry on, it lets your dog know that something is not quite right, which can add to his stress.
• Choose wisely – This is the most important tip. Not all kennels are the same. You must find one where you are confident that your dog will be cared for and treated well.
• Send food and treats – While some kennels offer their own food, it is better to keep your dog on his normal diet.
• Favorite toy – Leave favorite toys at home. It is easy for them to get lost at a kennel. Of course, if he has a toy that he is inseparable from, it is best to send that along and ask the staff to take special care that it not get lost.
• Don’t visit – If you are in town during your pet’s kennel stay, such as during a home remodel, avoid the temptation to visit him. While it might make you feel better, it will only confuse your pet.

Bed and Biscuit kennels near you may be a good option for boarding your pet. Just be sure to ask the right questions so that you can have confidence in those who are caring for your four-legged family members.

Orijen dog food reviews score high marks. In fact, Orijen dog food won Pet food of the Year in 2010. Find out why and if the natural dog food is right for you.

Orijen Dog Food Reviews

Orijen dog food reviews are almost always very favorable. This includes reviews submitted by consumers as well as those done by organizations that review dog foods.

Those groups that analyze the ingredients in dog food often give Orijen best dog food ratings. That is because of the high quality of the ingredients found in the products produced by this Canadian company.

They use only all-natural ingredients. All of the meat and fish ingredients are free-range or wild-caught.

All of the Orijen dog food formulas are based on a mixture of 80% meat, poultry or fish and 20% fruits and vegetables. There are no fillers and no grain in any of the Orijen products.

The developers of the food tried to replicate the diet that dogs would eat in the wild, which provides the best possible nutrition and promotes good digestion.

The high quality formulas make them a favorite among groups that provide dog food reviews.

Orijen dog food won the Pet Food of the Year Award for 2010-2011 from the Glycemic Research Institute of Washington D.C. as well as many other awards including the 2009 Reader’s Choice Award for Nashville Paw magazine.

Orijen Dog Food Reviews: The Downside

When it comes to consumer ratings, Orijen dog food reviews tend to take a slight hit in two areas: availability and price.

Consumer ratings for quality are almost always extremely high. Even in the price and availability categories, the brand typically scores between 3 and 4 stars (out of 5), so that’s still not too bad.

The company is working on increased availability. As for cost, it is the quality of ingredients that make this dog food more expensive. Still, people who want only the best for their dogs are willing to pay a premium price for a premium product.

Orijen Dog Food Formulas

All of the Orijen dog food formulas are made with human grade food.

• Puppy – A growing puppy needs a food designed just for him.
• Adult – All the nutrition that your adult dogs need.
• Senior – As dogs age, their nutritional needs change.
• Large breed puppy – Large breed puppies have special dietary needs that are met by this formula.
• 6 Fish – As the name implies, this formula is made with six types of fish, all wild caught.
• Regional Red – This is a red meat formula that uses regional meats such as wild boar.

Orijen Dog Food Web Site

The Orijen dog food website provides more information about all of the dog food products as well as up-to-date information about where you can buy Orijen dog food.

Orijen dog food is a perfect choice for those who only want to feed their dog the absolute best dog food available.

Enhance dog food is great for hard working, active dogs. Diamond, Eukanuba and others offer high energy formulas, but Enhance is formulated just for working dogs.

Enhance Dog Food

There are many quality dog food brands that offer a formula for working dogs. While Diamond dog food, Eukanuba dog food and others have high-energy formulas, Enhance dog food was developed specifically with this type of high energy, active dog in mind.

The developers of Enhance dog food understand the special needs of these dogs, both during working season and when the dogs have more time to relax. There are several formulas, each designed to meet the needs of very active dogs.

Because the balance of proteins, carbohydrates and fat were made especially with highly active dogs in mind, this food is not intended for your average house pet. Feeding a high calorie, energy producing food to a less active dog can result in unhealthy weight gain.

Enhance Dog Food Formulas

Below are the formulas offered by Enhance dog food.

• Professional – This food is intended for especially hard-working dogs. The blend of carbohydrates, protein and fat provide all of the energy these dogs need.
• In-Season – The nutritional needs of working dogs are different during the times of year that they are training harder or working. This food is intended for use during the dog’s busy times of year.
• Off-Season – During the months when your dog is not working so hard, this formula provides all of the needed nutrition but reduces the risk of weight gain.
• Puppy – Puppies have nutritional needs that are different than adult dogs. When you add in the fact that the puppy is a working dog in training, you need a quality food like Enhance dog food to make sure his needs are met.

Enhance Dog Food Dealers

Enhance dog food is not yet available in all locations. To see if there is an Enhance dog food dealer near you, you can visit the Web site where you will be prompted to enter your zip code. If there are Enhance dog food dealers near you then you will see a list of those dealers. If not, you can contact the company directly to ask when their products may be available at a location near you.

Enhance Dog Food Coupons

If you would like to try Enhance dog food, visit their Web site where you will find more information about their products as well as a coupon so you can save on your first bag.

You can also sign up for their mailing list where you will receive information about future specials as well as additional coupons from time to time.

If you have a hard working dog, you need to make sure the food that you choose was formulated with his very special needs in mind. When you choose Enhance dog food, you will know that all of your dog’s dietary needs will be met.

Cat constipation symptoms include refusing food and bloating. Learn the constipation remedies your vet may suggest to treat cat or kitten constipation symptoms.

Cat Constipation Symptoms

Cats are not complainers by nature. Your cat could be ill or hurt for quite some time before any symptoms show. Cat constipation symptoms may only be noticeable to pet owners who take the time to look for them. That is one reason that it is a good idea to keep a close eye on your pet and pay attention to their bodily functions.


Because cat constipation symptoms can be a sign of serious illness or injury, it is important to know what is going on with your cat, so that you can seek treatment as soon as possible.

Symptoms of cat constipation include:

• Straining – If you notice your cat straining to have a bowel movement, she is probably constipated. Some cats even cry because it hurts so badly.
• Bloating – Depending on the severity of the feline constipation, abdominal bloating may occur.
• Refusing food – If your cat refuses to eat, or eats less than normal, that could be a cat constipation symptom.
• Hard stool – If you notice hard stool when you clean out the litter box, this is another symptom.

Cat Constipation Causes

Constipation in cats and kittens can be caused by a number of things.

• Injury – Some injuries, particularly to the pelvic area, can cause constipation in cats.
• Poor diet – Failure to feed a high quality food that provides proper nutrition is a common cause of constipation in cats and kittens.
• Stress – Cats are very susceptible to physically manifesting their stress. This includes not eating and constipation. Do NOT ignore these symptoms. Even when caused by stress, they will not usually self-correct. Seek the advice of a vet.
• Lack of exercise – Obese and very low energy cats are more likely to suffer from constipation.
• Damaged nerves – Damaged nerves can make it difficult for the cat to have normal bowel movements.
• Obstruction – An obstruction in the digestive tracts is another fairly common cause of constipation in cats.

As you can see, some of the causes, such as a poor diet, may be easy to fix. Others, such as an obstruction or injury, may require extensive vet care.

Cat Constipation Remedies

The remedy will depend on the cause for the constipation as well as how severe it is. Possible remedies include:

• Changing food – Your vet may suggest a simple change to a higher quality food.
• Surgery – If injury or an obstruction in the cause, surgery may be necessary.
• Laxatives – Your vet may also prescribe a laxative.

Cat Constipation: When to Call the Vet

As mentioned above, cats are not complainers. By the time you notice any symptoms, it is likely that whatever is causing the constipation has been there for some time. For that reason, you should seek the attention and advice of a vet as soon as you notice cat constipation symptoms.

Black Gold dog food is a great choice for dog’s of varying activity levels. Developed by a nutritionist, Black Gold makes formulas for working dogs and more.

Black Gold Dog Food

Not every dog is the same, and not every type of dog food is going to work for every dog. Many of the quality dog food brands on the market, including Canidae, Diamond dog food and Nutro dog food, offer several formulas and Black Gold dog food is no exception.

Developed by a nutritionist, each formula of Black Gold dog food is intended to meet the nutritional needs of dogs while taking into account variables such as:

• Age
• Activity level
• Climate
• Overall health

When you choose Black Gold dog food, you will have about a dozen formulas from which to choose, so you can be sure that your dog gets the proper nutrition for his specific situation.

Black Gold Dog Food Formulas

As mentioned above, Black Gold dog food comes in many formulas. Below are a few examples.

• High Energy Blend – Is your dog always on the move? Then he needs a dog food that provides enough of the stuff to keep his energy level high.
• Dog Forte – While this formula was originally created for working dogs, it is also a great choice for dogs that are sick or recovering from an illness. According to Black Gold’s Web site, this formula contains 94% to 98% digestible material, making it easier for dogs to get what they need.
• Large Breed Puppy Blend – A large breed puppy has different nutritional needs than a smaller pup. This food was developed specifically to meet those needs.
• Trainer’s Blend – This formula is perfect for dogs with a lower activity level. It is also a popular choice for performing or working dogs during the time of year when they are less active than normal.

Other formulas include Super Blend, High Energy Blend and Lamb and Rice Blend. See the Black Gold Web site for a full list.

How to Choose a Black Gold Dog Food

It is important to choose the Black Gold dog food formula that is best for your pet. Black Gold has an easy to use chart on their Web site that can help you to choose the best formula. Because there are often more variables than can be listed in a chart, you can also call Black Gold with specific information about your pet and they will help you to choose the best formula.

Black Gold Dog Food: Is it the Best Choice?

There are many brands of quality dog food on the market. As long as the food that you select meets the nutritional needs of your pet, the exact brand is less important. That being said, because Black Gold dog food offers so many formulas, some pet owners find it easier to be sure that they are feeding their dog the best possible blend.

If you are not sure about which type of dog food is best for you, consult your veterinarian for advice about how much protein and fat your dog needs. Then you can simply choose a dog food that meets those needs.

Learn which poisonous foods for dogs can lead to serious medical issues, including death. Read a list of poisonous foods for dogs and why grapes and dogs don’t mix.

Poisonous Foods for Dogs

Many pet owners love to treat their dogs to an occasional dinner table scrap. But did you know that some foods are very dangerous for dogs and can result in serious illness and death? It is important that every pet owner know the list of poisonous food for dogs, so that you can keep your dog safe.

List of Poisonous Foods for Dogs

There are many great places to find lists of poisonous food for dogs. Below is a list of some of the most common food items that can cause serious problems for your pet.

• Chocolate – Many pet owners are aware of how dangerous that chocolate is to a dog. Theobromine, an ingredient in chocolate, can attack the dog’s central nervous system. The darker a chocolate is, the more dangerous it is for dogs. When a dog eats chocolate, it can lead to serious problems, including heart issues and death.
• Onions – A small amount of onions will probably not be harmful to your dog, but the thiosulphate in onions can cause problems in larger amounts. Because thiosulphate will build up in your dog’s system over time, it is better to avoid feeding your dog foods that contain onions.
• Garlic – Garlic also contains thiosulphate, so should be avoided for the same reasons as onions.
• Grapes – This one might come as a shock to some pet owners, and will disappoint the many dogs who enjoy chomping on a grape now and then. While some dogs will eat grapes and have no problems, grapes can cause kidney failure in some dogs. You should avoid feeding your dog raisins for the same reason.
• Sugar Substitutes – Avoid giving your dog any foods that contain sugar substitutes, particularly those that contain xylitol. Xylitol can cause serious medical issues in some dogs, including liver failure.
• Yeast – If you enjoy baking, be sure to keep yeast and uncooked dough away from your pets. In some cases, the yeast will rise in the dog’s stomach causing very serious complications, including a rupturing in the digestive tract.

Poisonous Food for Dogs: Symptoms

Below are some of the symptoms you may see if your pet has eaten any poisonous food for dogs.

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Heaving
• Refusing food

If you see any of the above symptoms, contact your vet right away. If you know that your dog has consumed dangerous foods, do not wait for symptoms to appear. Instead, contact the Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 or your vet’s office immediately.

When you call the number above, a fee will apply, but some locations have set up a pet poison control hotline that does not charge callers so check your local phone book.

Poisonous Food for Dogs: Treatment

The treatment when a pet eats poisonous food for dogs will depend on what he ate and how much. There is no one treatment that will be right in every case. Treatments may include providing fluids, inducing vomiting or surgery.

Many dogs who suffer from such food poisoning make a full recovery. The key is seeking treatment as soon as possible.

Learn how FIP in cats or Feline Infectious Peritonitis develops and know the symptoms. Feline Leukemia and FIV in cats make them more prone to developing FIP.

FIP in Cats

FIP in cats is a very serious condition that is almost always fatal. It is caused by a virus called Feline Infectious Peritonitis Virus (FIPV), but not every cat that comes in contact with the virus will develop FIP.

Some estimates state that about 1 in 5000 cats will develop FIP, but the numbers are higher in situations where there are multiple cats such as homes with many cats and animal shelters.

As mentioned above, not every cat that has the FIPV virus will develop FIP. In general, the healthier a cat is, the better able they will be to fend off the disease. Some cats, however, are more likely to develop FIP if they come in contact with the virus. These include:

• Kittens – Kittens have not yet developed a strong immune system, so they are not as able to fight off infection.
• Seniors – The immune system in older cats will be weaker than when the cat was in their prime.
• Feline Leukemia – Cats with feline leukemia already have a compromised immune system, so they will have a more difficult time fighting off an infection.

Symptoms of FIP in Cats

While there are symptoms of FIP in cats, these can also be the symptoms of a number of other medical issues. If you notice any of the symptoms below, you should certainly visit a vet right away, but do not assume that it is FIP.

• Weight loss
• Lethargy
• Diarrhea
• Bloating
• Refusing food

Again, the above symptoms can be caused by dozens of issues. Be sure to visit a vet as soon as possible if you notice any of these symptoms in your cat.

A firm diagnosis of Fip can only be made after blood tests and the collection of other data by your vet.

Treatment of FIP in Cats

There is no cure for FIP in cats. The sad fact is that almost every cat that develops the disease will die as a result. While every cat is different, the average life span after diagnosis is two to four months.

Even though there is no cure, there are treatments that can extend the life of your cat while also making her more comfortable. These include:

• Blood transfusions – This can help with the anemia that many with Fip in cats develop.
• Draining of Fluid – Fluid collects in the abdomen and chest of cats suffering with this disease. Draining the fluid will help the cat be able to breathe easier and be more comfortable.
• Proper Diet – Feeding a high quality diet will help your cat stay as strong as possible.

Preventing FIP in Cats

Because there is no cure for Fip in cats, prevention is very important.

• Vaccinate – As mentioned above, cats with Feline Leukemia are more likely to develop FIP. Be sure to keep your cat’s vaccinations current to prevent her from getting Feline Leukemia.
• Litter Box - The virus that causes the disease is spread through saliva and feces. Scoop the litter box every day and clean thoroughly at least once a week.
• Food and Water – The food and water bowls should be cleaned every couple of days and should not be kept near the litter box.

Even if you only have one indoor cat, the virus can still be transmitted through something that you bring in from outside. The preventive measures above are one line of defense against this deadly disease.

Learn how to choose the best premium dog foods. Premium dog food brands can help your dog’s health, so learn where to buy premium natural dog food.

What are Premium Dog Foods?

Premium dog foods are those made from high quality ingredients and that take the dog’s nutritional needs into account when selecting those ingredients. For example, grains are not necessary to dogs and do not provide much nutrition. Therefore, premium dog foods will not include a large amount of grain and the grain included will be whole grain.

Benefits of Choosing a Premium Dog Food

The benefits of choosing a premium dog food is similar to the benefits for a human who chooses to eat a proper, nutritionally sound diet. The dog will have more energy, a better coat and will be able to maintain optimum health more easily.

Feeding only low quality dog food, such as most of the offerings that can be found in the grocery store, is akin to a human eating nothing but fast food or junk food all of the time.

The benefits of choosing premium dog food include:

• Digestive health – Your dog will be better able to absorb the nutrients from a premium food making it easier to maintain digestive health.
• Healthy coat – A shiny coat is another benefit of choosing a quality dog food.
• More energy – Getting the proper nutrition means that your dog will have more energy to romp and play
• The best dog foods also include omega-3s which provide some protection against everyday toxins with which you pet may come in contact.

Examples of Premium Dog Food Brands

There are many premium dog food brands, but you must do a little research about your own breed of dog (some have a tendency to be allergic to certain ingredients) to decide which is the best dog food for him. Below is a list of some the dog food brands that offer premium choices.

• Iams
• Science Diet
• Blue
• Precise
• Canidae

Even if you choose a food from the above brands, you must learn to read the dog food labels. Some brands offer dozens of choices, and some may be of a lower quality than others. That is why you cannot choose based just on the brand name. In order to know that you are feeding only the best dog foods, you must learn to read the label.

Premium dog foods can be purchased from your vet’s office and from pet supply stores such as Petco and PetSmart. The pet supply stores will offer a larger selection, but the vet will have specialty brands such as those needed for dogs with allergies.

Grocery stores are not the best place to buy dog food. Most of the choices will be of low-quality and will not meet the nutritional needs of your pet.

Are Premium Dog Food Brands Expensive?

While premium dog foods will cost more than a food of a lesser quality, you will find that the dog will eat less of it. This means that a 40 pound bag of premium dog food will last longer than the same size bag of a poor quality food.

Of course, you cannot put a price on the good health of your pet, so a premium dog food really is priceless.

Learn why you should choose a corn-free dog food and what to look for in the ingredients. Iams, Canidae, Precise and Blue offer corn-free dog food.

Why Choose Dog Food without Corn

Choosing the best food for your dog may seem confusing. You might feel like you need to take a class in order to understand dog food labels, and another to know which ingredients are best for your pet. For example, some pet owners are surprised to learn that corn is an ingredient that should be avoided.

The reason it may be surprising is that vegetables are so important to a human’s diet, but for a dog, the diet should consist mostly of meat. While some vegetables are fine, dogs have trouble absorbing them therefore they do not provide much of the dog’s needed nutrition.

Corn in particular is hard for dogs to digest some breeds have a higher than average chance of being allergic to this particular vegetable.

For those reasons it is best to choose a dog food that does not include corn on the list of ingredients.

Examples of Dog Food without Corn

The only way to know whether or not a particular dog food has corn is to read the label. There are many premium brand dog foods that offer formulas that are corn-free. Even some grocery store dog food may have corn-free recipes.

Some of the premium brands that offer corn free dog food are:

• Iams
• Science Diet
• Canidae
• Blue Dog Food
• Precise Dog Food

Some of the above listed brands only offer dog food that is free of corn. Others have some recipes that are corn free and others that include the vegetable. Again, you must read the labels to be sure you are getting a corn free food.

The Best Dog Food without Corn

Just because a dog food is corn free does mean that it is necessarily a good choice. The food must also include ingredients that will meet all of the dog’s nutritional needs.

Consider the following on the dog food label when trying to choose the best dog food without corn.

• A meat source should be the first ingredient. In particular, it should be a named meat source such as “chicken” or “beef” instead of just reading “meat”.
• Avoid chemical preservatives. These may include Ethoxyquin.
• Grains do not provide much nutritional value for dogs. While you may have a hard time avoiding them completely, try to find a food where grains are not among the first five ingredients listed.

Where to Buy Corn Free Dog Food

A pet supply store such as Petco or PetSmart is a good place to shop for corn free dog food. They will have a large selection of brands, so you will be able to choose the food that you think is best for your dog.

Most grocery stores will not have a large selection of quality dog foods.

The food that you feed your dog is as important to his or her health as the food that you eat is to your health. Choose wisely so that your dog can have a long and healthy life.

Learn about Precise dog food, including the types of ingredients that are used in their three dog food lines and where to find Precise dog food coupons.

Precise Dog Food

Dog owners have to wade through hundreds of options when trying to decide on the best dog food for their furry family members.  Precise dog food is one of the better choices. The fact is that not all dog food is created equally. Basing your decision on price alone can have a negative impact on the health of your dog.

Grocery store dog food usually contains a lot of fillers and items that may make your dog feel full but will not provide adequate nutrition.

Premium dog food brands such as Canidae dog food, are made with high quality ingredients and are a much better option. As mentioned above, one of the better premium dog foods are those offered by Precise Pet Products.

Precise Dog Food Lines

Precise has three dog food lines.

• Precise – This is the original line of Precise dog food. Options include puppy and adult formulas as well as those for high energy dogs and dogs that need to lose a few pounds.
• Precise Plus – This line includes additional ingredients such as probiotics and herbs that are thought to aid in digestion.
• Precise Holistic Complete – This food contains everything that your dog needs for good nutrition. Omegas and antioxidants have been added to protect your pet.

Why Choose Precise Dog Food?

The main reason to choose Precise dog food – or any dog food – is because of the ingredient list. The marketing materials, fancy packaging and customer reviews should not be the reason that you choose one brand of dog food over another.

Precise dog food uses quality ingredients in its Holistic Complete line.

• Real meat such as chicken, lamb, duck and turkey
• Probiotics
• Omegas such as those found in flaxseeds and fish oil
• Fruits and vegetable such as potatoes, apples, blueberries and carrots
• Antioxidants, such as those found in vitamin A and vitamin C

Precise Dog Food Coupons

As mentioned above, you should not choose a dog food based on price alone. That being said, it can be difficult to afford to buy higher quality products. The makers of Precise dog food lines understand this and they try to make it a little easier by offer special coupons from time to time.

When available, Precise dog food coupons can be found on the maker’s Web site. You can also find them at pet supply stores where Precise products are sold.

Keep in mind that such special promotions are only available from time to time, so the next time you see a Precise dog food coupon you may consider stocking up by buying a few bags.

Precise dog food is one of the many options available. If after doing some research, you are still unsure which type of food is best for your dog, ask your vet for a recommendation.

Learn to spot cat hairball symptoms that signal a dangerous complication. Also learn home remedies to treat problem hairballs and how hairballs can be prevented.

Cat Hairball Symptoms

Anyone who has owned a cat has probably had the pleasure of finding – or stepping in – a hairball. While hairballs are normal and usually harmless, they are unpleasant both for you and for your cat. Also, it is possible for hairballs to lead to serious medical issues, so cat owners should take steps to prevent them.

How Hairballs Can Lead to a Sick Cat

While, as mentioned above, hairballs are almost always harmless, it is possible for them to lead to a serious medical issue. If the hairball becomes lodged in the digestive tract, it can lead to big health issues for your cat. Symptoms of an intestinal blockage include:

• Lethargy
• Refusing food (note: Never try to wait it out if your cat is refusing food. This will quickly lead to VERY serious issues, and even death.
• Hair in the stool

If you notice any of the above symptoms, have your cat seen by a vet right away.

Cat Hairball Symptoms: Prevention is Best Medicine

It is said about many things that prevention is the best medicine. This is very true when it comes to avoiding a sick cat and the hassle of dealing with your cat coughing up hairballs.

• Brushing – The number one way to prevent cat hairballs is simply to brush your cat each day. If you have a short hair cat, you can brush less often. When you brush your cat regularly, it removes much of the loose hair. Then, when your cat grooms, less hair will be ingested.
• Foods – There are certain cat foods that claim to aid in hairball prevention. This is only necessary if your cat has a particular problem with hairballs. See your vet for advice about whether you need to use a hairball prevention food and which brand is best.

Cat Hairball Treatment

If your cat is having problems with hairballs, there are some treatment options that may help. Of course, you should also start brushing the cat if you aren’t doing that already. In addition, consider trying one of the following home remedies after consulting with your vet.

• Mineral Oil – Since this is the main ingredient in hairball treatments sold over the counter, it makes sense that adding a bit to your cats food may help.
• Pumpkin – Part of the reasons hairballs form is that there is not enough lubrication. Plain canned pumpkin is not only a treat for your cat, but it adds some fiber and lubrication that may help treat a hairball problem. Note that you should use plain pumpkin and not canned pumpkin pie filling.

There are also over the counter hairball treatments which are sold at most pet supply stores. If nothing works, talk to your vet about options for your cat’s hairball symptoms that may be available with a prescription.

Learn why Blue Wilderness dog food is a good choice for active dogs. Blue Wilderness dog food contains all-natural ingredients with antioxidants and vitamins.

Blue Wilderness Dog Food

Did you ever wonder about the companies that sell dog food? Did it ever dawn on you that, in many cases, profit is their main motivation rather than the proper nutrition of your pet? Blue Buffalo is a dog and cat food company with an entirely different set of motivations, and they produce an entirely different type of dog food.

Developers of Blue Wilderness Dog Food

In some cases, the idea for a new dog food starts in a board room with some businessmen deciding the best way to corner a certain segment of the market. While selling dog food is certainly a business, wouldn’t it be great if there were a dog food company whose first priority was the quality of their food?

Such is the case the Blue Buffalo. The company is named after the owner’s beloved dog that was named Blue. When Blue developed cancer, his owners were shocked to learn that the incidence of cancer in dogs was on the rise.

This led them to the desire to develop a dog food that was nutritionally superior to most others on the market AND that could offer some form of protection from the toxic materials found all around them.

They developed the Blue Buffalo products which include the four lines below:

• BLUE Life Protection
• Longevity
• Wilderness
• Basic

The developers of Blue Wilderness dog food were not a big business who developed a dog food. They are people who are truly passionate about providing proper nutrition for dogs and used that passion to create a business.

Blue Wilderness Dog Food: Types of Dog

As mentioned above, there are four types of Blue Buffalo dog food. The Wilderness line is best for dogs that are very active. If your dog is into competitive sporting events, or just seems to be on the go all of the time, then this high-protein, low-carb dog food is a great choice.

Ingredients in Blue Wilderness Dog Food

Some dog food labels contain words that most people cannot even pronounce, never mind understand what they are. On all Blue Buffalo dog food labels, you will find only the most basic of ingredients including:

• Real Meat – This is the first ingredient in every type of Blue Buffalo food, including Blue Wilderness dog food. That means each bag or can contains more meat than any other ingredient. REAL MEAT means no by-products, so your dog is getting only the best.
• Fruits and Vegetables – These foods are important to your dog’s nutrition.
• Whole Grain – Instead of using fillers and artificial ingredient, whole grains provide a healthy option.

There are also some things that you will NEVER find in Blue Wilderness dog food or in the other Blue Buffalo lines.

• Meat and poultry by-products
• Artificial preservatives
• Artificial colors
• Artificial flavors

Some of the Buffalo dog food lines, including Blue Wilderness dog food, also contain Life Source Bits. Life source bits include antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that will help to keep your pet healthy and strong.

If you want the best for your dog, avoid grocery store dog foods with a list of mystery ingredients and stick to all-natural options, such as Blue Wilderness dog food.

The Emery Cat Scratcher offers many benefits to cats and owners. Read reviews and whether or not indoor cats actually enjoy using the Emery scratching post.

Emery Cat Scratcher

The Emery Cat Scratcher is a cat toy with a scratching surface that was designed to groom a cats nail as they scratch and play, thus removing the need for nail trims. Since it was introduced in 2009, the product has done quite well and is sold in many major retail stores as well as online.

Emery Cat Scratcher: The Benefits

When a cat uses the Emery Cat Scratcher, there are benefits, both for the cat and the cat’s owner.

• Files – Because of the material used to make the Emery Cat Scratcher, it files the cats nails as she scratches the pad.
• Stretching – The wave shape of the Emery Cat Scratcher gives the cat plenty of room to stretch out as she scratches away.
• No Clipping – When the cat uses the Emery Cat Scratcher often enough, the need for clipping the cat’s nails can be eliminated.
• Saves Furniture – If the cat enjoys the Emery Cat Scratcher, she will be less inclined to take her scratching tendencies out on your furniture.

Of course, the above benefits are only realized if the cat actually uses the Emery Cat Scratcher. As you will see in the next section, this does not always happen.

Emery Cat Scratcher Reviews

If you read through many consumer reviews of the Emery Cat Scratcher, you will learn what should not come as a surprise: Not all cats like it. As with any type of cat toy, food or bed, it comes down to a matter of taste whether a particular cat is going to like it. There is no cat toy, including the Emery Cat Scratcher, that is going to appeal to every cat.

Therefore, when you read reviews, you will see many people complain that their cat didn’t like it. Still, it is worth a try. If you can tempt your cat to try it – as many of the happier reviews will attest – then the Emery Cat Scratcher really does do a good job of helping to keep the cat’s nail trimmed and the cats away from the furniture.

So every cat will not be a fan, but you won’t know if yours is until you try the product.

Emery Cat Scratcher: Where to Buy

Emery Cat Scratcher is sold on the company’s dedicated Web site, but this is not where you will find the best price. Wal-Mart and Target may have the item for a lower prices than the Web site, particularly if you catch a sale.

If you would rather shop online, try Amazon. There you may find the Emery Cat Scratcher for about half of what you would pay buying directly from the dedicated Web site.

The Emery Cat Scratcher is a good product IF your cat will use it.

Learn why Acana dog food reviews typically score the highest possible marks. Also learn about ingredients Acana dog food makers use and why it is a superior choice.

Acana Dog Food

Acana dog food is a high quality food that is produced by Champion Pet Foods, the same company that makes Orijen pet foods. While this is still a very good dog food, it is not quite as excellent as the Orijen foods, which include only meat, fruit and vegetables.

Still, Acana dog food consistently receives high marks in reviews from both consumers and organizations that routinely review dog foods.  

Acana Dog Food Reviews

Some of the Acana dog food products contain grain. There are, however, four formulas that do not contain grain. They are:

• Acana Wild Prairie
• Acana Grasslands
• Acana Pacifica
• Acana Ranchlands

It is these three Acana dog foods that receive the highest marks from the experts.  Typically, this food achieves the highest score possible on any particular rating system.

The reason for such high ratings is the quality of the ingredients. Rather than sourcing ingredients from the lowest bidder, Champion Pet Foods uses only regional ingredients. They source from local vendors, so they are able to verify the quality of every item that goes into all of their pet food formulas.

Also, the makers of Acana dog food modeled their pet food products on what dogs would eat in the wild. Even the choices of vegetables are often what a dog may be able to find if he were foraging for his own food.

Acana also gets high marks when it comes to consumer reviews. The only downside, say many consumers, is the price.

Because of the quality of the ingredients, this dog food is quite a bit more expensive than some other premium dog food brands. Still, for those who are willing and able to pay the price, they receive a superior product.

Acana Dog Food Formulas

There are 14 formulas of Acana dog food.

Classic Series

These products contain grain.

• Puppy Small Breed
• Puppy & Junior
• Puppy Large Breed
• Adult Small Breed
• Adult Dog
• Lamb & Apple
• Adult Large Breed
• Sport & Agility
• Light & Fit
• Senior Dog

Grain-Free Dog Foods

• Wild Prairie
• Pacifica
• Grasslands
• Ranchlands

The large number of available formulas is another reason that Acana dog food is a good choice. There is no one food that will be appropriate for all dogs during every stage of their life. By providing the various formulas, pet owners will be able to choose the right food for the right time in their pet’s life.

Acana Dog Food: Where to Buy

Acana dog food is sold in retail pet outlets, but if you cannot find one near you, you can simply order the food online. There are several online retailers that carry a selection of the Acana dog food products.

Again, these products are pricey, but the quality of the ingredients used in Acana dog food is tough to beat.

Sojos dog food reviews show mixed feedback. We sort out why and offer a list of Sojos dog food formulas and how they rate compared to other foods.

Sojos Dog Food

Until fairly recently, all Sojos dog food required the user to add meat and water before serving. The product contained dehydrated grains, veggies and other ingredients. After soaking, the user adds a high quality, raw meat and feeds.

The food, made by Sojourner Farms, claims that this is one of the most nutritionally sound ways to feed your pet and that it is based on how dogs would eat in the wild.

While the logic is fairly sound – dogs in the wild do eat raw meat – some experts have a couple of problems with this food as you’ll see in the review section below.

Recently, the Sojourner Farms dog food line was expanded to include “complete” selections that already include meat. When using foods from the complete line, you need only add water.  

Sojos Dog Food Reviews

Reviews of the Sojos dog food in the complete line score above average, but not by much. The reason has to do with the type of meat that is included. The meat has been freeze dried. Also, it is not listed until the fourth ingredient, meaning that the amount of meat in relation to other ingredients is less than it should be to provide the optimum amount of meat protein.

Still, the food is recommended as a good choice by reviewers, but there are other foods that scored higher and that do not require the preparation that the Sojos dog food needs.

Sojos Dog Food Formulas

Below is a brief description of the items in the Sojos dog food line.

·        Sojos Complete Beef – This is one of the newer additions to the line. It contains freeze dried beef, so all you need to add is water.

·        Sojos Original Dog Food Mix – This dog food mix contains grains, nuts and a few other ingredients. You add water, meat and fresh vegetables.

·        Monzies Organic Muesli for Dogs – This food is all organic and wheat and corn-free. This is a good choice for dogs with allergies to wheat and corn products.

·        Sojos Complete Dog Food Mix – Similar to the complete beef product, this food uses freeze dried turkey instead. Just add water.

·        Sojos Grain-Free Dog Food Mix – This option is for those who want to add their own meat and veggies, but do not want the grain found in the original.

Sojos Dog Food Coupons

If you sign up for the Sojos dog food newsletter, you will be sent coupons from time to time. You may also find coupons occasionally posted directly onto the Web site.

The bottom line is that the food is of a high quality, but not as nutritious as other options. If you like the idea of adding your own meat and veggies, this is a good choice.

Discover toxic vegetables, fruits, and other toxic foods for dogs, and learn how to avoid accidentally feeding your pet these potentially deadly foods.

Toxic Foods for Dogs

Many pet owners enjoy giving their dog an occasional treat of human food. While this is usually fine if done in moderation, if you do not know the list of toxic foods for dogs, then your treat could turn into a serious medical emergency for your pet.

Toxic Vegetables for Dogs

While most vegetables are perfectly safe for dogs, there are some that you should never give your pet.

• Onions – Onions contain thiosulphate which can build up in your dog’s system and cause serious issues. (Note: Garlic should be avoided for the same reason).
• Potatoes (leaves) – Potatoes are fine, but the leafy part of the plant can cause illness in dogs.
• Cornstalk – If a dog eats cornstalks, he can become very ill. While corn does not make the list of toxic vegetables, many dogs have an allergy to corn, so it is best to avoid feeding this vegetable to your pet.

Toxic Fruits for Dogs

Some of the fruits that are toxic to dogs are:

• Avocado – Every part of the avocado is harmful to your pet. Be sure to keep avocadoes out of reach.
• Grapes – Grapes can cause kidney problems. (Note: Raisins should be avoided for the same reason.)
• Green Tomatoes – Green tomatoes contain oxalates which can have a negative impact on the digestive and urinary systems of your pet.

There are many other foods that are also toxic for dogs. Below are some of the most common.

·      Chocolate – The darker the chocolate, the more dangerous it is to your pet. Unfortunately, many dogs really like the taste of chocolate, so if you leave it within paw’s reach, there is a good chance your dog will eat it. In the most serious cases, the results can be fatal.

·      Nutmeg – Nutmeg, even in small quantities, can cause seizures and damage to the central nervous system.

·     Some Nuts – Certain nuts, such as macadamia nuts, are very harmful to dogs.

·     Some Mushrooms – Not all mushrooms are harmful, but if you are unsure, it is best to avoid giving your dog this food.

Toxic Foods for Dogs: Getting Help

If you think your dog has eaten a harmful food, do not wait. Instead, you should take action right away. A first step is to call the Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435. They will be able to give you advice about what you should do. Of course, another option is to immediately call your vet or head to the nearest pet emergency room.

Just because a food is safe for humans does not mean it is safe for dogs. Be sure to learn the entire list of toxic foods to dogs. If in doubt, talk to your vet before feeding a certain food to your dog.

Learn why Canidae Dog Food reviews are consistently high, while also discovering the potential Canidae dog food problems and a total food analysis.

Canidae Dog Food Reviews

Canidae is a high quality dog food that consistently gets the highest ratings from reviewers. While Canidae dog food reviews for their grain-free formulas achieve the very highest marks, the other formulas also perform very well above average.

This is a great choice that is more economical than some other top performers. That is not to say that this is an inexpensive dog food, but when you put it next to other dog foods that achieve such high ratings on dog food reviews, this is a less-expensive option.

Canidae Dog Food Reviews: Consumer

Canidae dog food reviews from consumers also typically get high marks. The food is a high quality blend that includes the proper balance of nutrients, so it is not surprising that consumers notice a positive change in coat, energy and digestion when feeding Canidae to their pets.

As mentioned above, this is a less expensive choice than some other premium foods.  This fact also helps make it attractive to consumers who want the best for their pets, but do not want to spend more than necessary.

Canidae is easy to find as it is available at many large pet supply stores, vet’s offices and smaller pet shops. If you cannot find it in a store near you, it can also be purchased online.

Canidae Dog Food Analysis

Using the grain free salmon formula as an example, it is great to see that the very first ingredient is a named source of protein: salmon meal. The food contains a total of 44% protein, which is within the guidelines for optimal health. The food also contains 22% fat and 25% carbs, both perfectly acceptable percentages.

Some would prefer to see “salmon” rather than “salmon meal”, but salmon meal does provide more protein in a more concentrated form. This is one of the reasons that the makers of Canidae can provide a quality food at a lower price. Some other dog foods, such as Orijen, use only regionally found, fresh ingredients. Those foods, which also score the highest marks, cost much more due to the choice of ingredients.

Canidae Dog Food Problems

While the Canidea dog food reviews are, overall, positive, there are a couple of issues to keep in mind. There are some ingredients that some experts say should not be in dog food. Two such ingredients appear in some Canidae foods.

·        Tomato Pomace – This is not necessarily a harmful ingredient, but some say that tomato pomace is nothing more than a cheap filler ingredient with no real value.

·        Canola Oil – Also controversial, some say that canola oil can have a negative impact on the health of both pets and humans.

Overall, Canidae is a great choice for a high quality dog food at a lower price. Your dog will get all of the required nutrition, but you do sacrifice in the area of overall quality of ingredients.

Learn why you should make your own dog food and use dog food recipes to create the best dog food.  To make your own healthy dog food, just follow the recipe .

If you have a dog, nothing is more satisfying than being able to make your own dog food.   With all the junk in dog foods on the market today, it is not too surprising that more people are trying to make homemade dog food.   Not only is this dog food healthy, but you can make it to your dogs own specific wants or diet.  Don’t be surprised if you find that your dog eats homemade dog food even better than what you buy in the store.

Make Your Own Dog Food: Getting Started

Before you start making your own dog food, you need to consider what you need to do to make your own healthy dog food.  Just like food you can make for yourself, not all recipes are actually healthy that you can find on the internet.   Look into the breed requirements for your dog and what vitamins and minerals that your breeds possibly needs in their food.  In many cases, you can easily add these to your food through a combination of safe foods and vegetables.

Make Your Own Healthy Dog Food

As well, make sure you take a look at a list of food that are actually unhealthy for your dog.  Some vegetables and herbs that are great for us are actually very toxic for dogs.  Foods that you should always avoid in your dog food recipes include:

• Onions
• Garlic
• Yeast
• Grapes
• Raisins
• Avocados

As long as you follow a good recipe, you should have no problems when it comes to finding good dog food recipes.

Make Your Own Dog Food: Best Dog Food Recipes

Online, you can find a variety of sites that tell you how to make your own dog food.   At the bottom of this article, we will list some of our favorite dog food recipes.  Since every dog is different, however, don’t be surprised if you find yourself trying out a few recipes before you find the right one.

Sweet Potato and Beef/Chicken  Dog Food

Ingredients

1 to 2lbs of Ground Beef or Chicken (preferably organic)

2 Large Sweet Potatoes

3 Eggs (scrambled)

1 Cup of Filtered Water

First, set your oven to 350 degrees and grease an old cookie sheet.  As your oven is heating up, boil your sweet potatoes until they are soft.  Then, mix the sweet potatoes with the rest of your ingredients, spreading them out on your cookie sheet.   When you are ready, put your dog food in the oven, baking for thirty minutes.  When completed, let cool for fifteen minutes before you start breaking apart.  This should have the consistency of a cookie.

After testing this recipe on our own dogs, we found that they were very pleased with the results.  With your new hobby of being able to make your own dog food, you can save both money and your dog’s health.

Helping owners buy the best dog food brand and not the worst dog food brand.  Owners learn about the healthiest dog food brand to get a top dog food brand.

If you are someone who likes natural food, you have been trying to find the best dog food brand when it comes to natural dog food.  Many dog food today are trying to make their own natural version of their food, claiming to be the healthiest dog food brand on the market.  Yet, how many of these brands are actually true with their marketing?  You may be surprised when you find out which are actually the healthiest dog foods and which may be the worst dog food brand on the market.

Best Dog Food Brand: Natural Food

If you ask many people on the internet, they will go in an all out war on what is the best dog food brand.  While some may think that all natural foods are the same, this is far from the truth.   Most true natural and holistic dog food are proud of the fact that they use all natural meats, vegetables, and fruits in their foods, allowing your dog to eat a diet similar to what wild dogs would eat.  We all want our dog to be the healthiest, so why not give them that opportunity?

To be consisted the healthiest dog food brand, these foods also had to prove that they were not tested on animals. No one wants to see an animal suffer, including us.   They also had to be easily accessible through local pet stores, allowing all dogs to be able to enjoy these foods.  All of these natural foods also had to prove that they could..

• Improve the longevity of dogs
• Reduced skin ailments
• Used nutritionists in the making of their food

So, who did we deem to be the best dog food brand?

Top Dog Food Brand: Blue Buffalo

Picking the best dog food brand was very difficult, but due to their availability and ability to create foods for different breeds of dogs, we decided that Blue Buffalo was the best natural food, with Wellness Dog Food following closely behind.  Along with having some of the best ingredients, we found that dogs absolutely loved the taste of both of these foods, making them ideal for dogs of all ages.

Worst Dog Food Brand: Eukanuba

While Eukanuba may be one of the most well known dog food brands, it should no longer be considered a best dog food brand. At one point, it would have been a top dog food brand, but once it was no longer its own separate company, it began following the same procedures as Iams, filling their food with byproducts and corn.

While it may have been a high grade food at one point, you should avoid it at all possible for your dogs.  Quite a few natural foods are much better quality today, and cheaper.

An in-depth look at CSJ dog food and its healthy line of CSJ dog food and CSJ puppy food.  Through CSJ dog food reviews, dog owners learn the truth about CSJ dog food.

If you are looking for an all natural food in the United Kingdom, you should consider CSJ dog food.  Many foods that are made throughout the world for dogs are filled with artificial flavors and byproducts, leaving most dog owners sick when they look at the ingredients in their dog food.  Most of the food itself is filled with grains and fillers, much of which we wouldn’t even consider feeding out children.  If you are like many dog owners, you feel that your dog is part of your family, so why not feed them right.  The makers of CSJ dog food and strive to always improve their holistic formula to allow dogs to have the best food possible.

What is CSJ Dog Food

Currently, CSJ dog food makes three different types of products:

• Natural Canine Food
• Herbal Supplements
• Treats

Prior to CSJ dog food, many pet owners in the UK had very few choices if they wanted to feed their dog natural dog food.  Many of their options included supposed natural brands that contained ingredients that could not be pronounced, just like their name.  Not recognizing these names, breeders began researching these ingredients online, finding quickly that they were horrified what exactly was in these foods.   Due to this, breeders began focusing on finding a truly natural food that they were proud to feed their dogs, like CSJ dog food.

All the foods that are created by CSJ dog food are made using only natural ingredients that you would consider using in your own home, allowing you to get the benefits of making your own dog food without the mess. Your dog is able to enjoy the benefits of high grade chicken, lamb, and salmon, instead of the byproducts that are in most food. The true secret to CSJ dog food is that they work closely with veterinarians and herbalists to make sure all of their food is nutritious and tastes great.

CSJ Puppy Food

Being a favorite of breeders, it is not too surprising that they make their own puppy chow.  CSJ puppy food is proud to offer the same type of food for little dogs, only with more protein and other ingredients that are needed for growing puppies.   Because of the wonderful ingredients in the CSJ dog food, dog handlers in the UK swear that they will never change from this holistic food.

CSJ Dog Food Reviews

If you are considering switching your dog to CSJ dog food, you may want to consider reading the following CSJ dog food reviews.  These reviews were written by customers and store owners like you, giving you an honest opinion about the food itself.

• Ciao CSJ Dog Food Review
• Brittany Dog Food Supplier: CSJ Review
• Dog Food Analysis: CSJ Dog Food

Always make sure you talk to your veterinarian before changing your dogs food, in case there may be any allergic reactions.   With a bit of research, however, you will find yourself with a better natural food that will make your dog healthier and with more energy during playtime.

Description of how Skinners dog food is the best dry dog food for every dog.  Owners are learning why Skinners pet food is a complete dog food for every dog.

For the working dog, Skinners dog food has always been considered the best.  Sled dogs and those who work in the field need a complete dog food that will meet their needs, unlike most other dry dog food that is filled with fillers and artificial ingredients.  Yet, is it okay to feed Skinners dog food to our regular every day dog who loves to lounge around the house and watch cartoons with our children?

Skinners Dog Food:  Dry Pet Food of Champions

Even though many consumers do not know about it, Skinners dog food has had its own line of consumer dog food for the everyday dog for quite some time.  They understand the importance of having a complete dog food that meets all of your dogs needs, including keeping them healthy and filled with energy.  In many cases, those dogs and puppies who eat Skinner’s pet foods seem like puppies throughout their lives due to their high energy level and fitness.

As well, Skinners dog food is proud of the fact that it is considered one of the very best natural dog foods on the market.   If you look on the back of most dry dog food packages, you will learn quickly that most foods on the market are filled with grains and fillers that are meant to keep your dog eating.  This is not only bad for your dog, but leaves you having to constantly buy food.  With a good natural food, this should never be the case.  With Skinners dog food line of household foods, you know that your family pet will be healthy.

What makes Skinners Pet Foods Special

Skinner dog food is proud of its ability to offer both working dogs and companion dogs the quality holistic dog food.  In each formula of their dry dog food, you can expect:

• Foods with No Artificial Flavors or Ingredients
• No Artificial Colors
• No Ash
• GM Free foods

As well, each of their foods were specially formulated by nutrition experts to make sure that dogs of all shapes and sizes get the nutrition they need.  With no preservatives, you can also expect your dog to stay healthy and fit for most of their lives just by being on Skinners dog food.

Finding Skinners Dry Dog Food

The only problem with Skinners dog food is the fact that some areas of the world may have issues finding this high quality dog food.  While they do offer Skinners pet foods in many overseas countries, you can expect to pay a little higher price, making it difficult for those who are on a budget.  Luckily, you can find Skinner’s dog food at a variety of places online, including Valupets.com.   While this food may be a bit more expensive, it is guarantee that your dogs will happier and healthier on this high quality food.

Learn the truth about vegan dog food and how raw vegan dog food is healthier for dogs through a vegetarian dog food diet.  Find how PETA dog food is helping.

Being a vegan, you have probably considering moving your dog to vegan dog food.  Being someone who wants what is best for animals, you cannot stand the thought of your dog eating another living thing, making it important that you find a vegan dog food that not only meet your vegan household standards, but is also healthy for your dog.  Even though there may be a lot of critics when it comes to this meat free dog food, there are a few vegan dog foods on the market that will not only be loved by your dog, but can prolong their life.

Why Vegetarian Dog Food

For many vegetarians, nothing is worse than supporting the killing of animals.  Most good dog food on the market today uses meat as one of its largest ingredients, having your dog eating another living animal.  While this may be natural, it is not necessary for your animal to stay healthy.  According to PETA, it is more ethical to feed your dog PETA dog food that has been deemed completely vegan, with some dogs that are on this diet living over twenty years.  Who wouldn’t want to give their best friend a longer life span?

According to recent studies, vegan dog food has been proven to:

• Increase the Lifespan of Dogs
• Provide more Nutrients than 80% of Dog Food
• Supports Better Digestive Health for Many Breeds

While vegetarian dog food may not be recommended for all dogs, it is just as safe as many other dog foods on the market.

Purchasing Raw Vegan Dog Food

Unlike many other types of dog food, purchasing vegetarian dog food isn’t as difficult as you may think.  Many sites that support vegetarian living have   started selling vegan dog food.   Most of these sites are proud to have PETA dog food that has been deemed safe by the organizations strict vegan standards.  As well, many well known pet stores, including Petsmart and Petco have started selling vegan dog food.  If you cannot find it in your area, however, you can also make your own raw vegan dog food by using rice, lentils, and organic vegetables.   PETA themselves has many great homemade raw vegan dog food recipes on their site that have been proven favorites by nearly every breed of dog.

How to Keep your Dog Healthy on Vegetarian Dog Food

Just like humans, many dogs will also need vitamin supplements if they are eating vegan dog food.  One of the most well known supplements Vegedog, is recommended by PETA and many other vegan organizations.  When purchasing your vegetarian dog food, just make sure that it has the needed vitamins and minerals for your breed of dog, and you will be set.

By switching to vegan dog food, you are allowing your family and you to live a more vegan lifestyle.  At the end of the day, your dog will probably not know the difference, other than the fact that they have a healthier body and a shinier coat.

Want to know what the best dog food on the market is? How about the healthiest dog food on the market? We cover these topics, plus cat food, right here.

Every dog owner wants the best dog food on the market for their dog.   No matter how old your dog is, they deserve to eat the best food possible, keeping them healthier long and prolonging their life.  While we may all want our dogs to eating the best dog food on the market, finding which foods are actually the best through all the advertising can be difficult, especially when most of the studies are financed by pet food companies.   Knowing that you want to find the best food possible, we did our own research to find the healthiest dog food on the market for your dog.

Best Dog Food on the Market: The Top Three

After doing a bit of research, we found that there are quite a few places online that claim to have in-depth lists on the best dog food on the market.  When further researching these sites, we found that many of these sites were linked back to dog food makers, making finding an unbiased opinion for most dog owners very challenging.   Knowing that dog owners want to know the truth, we did our own little bit of research.  Through testing, we found that the healthiest dog food on the market were the following brands:

• Natural balance Ultra Premium
• Newman’s Own Organic
• Timberwolf

Healthiest Dog Food on the Market: Our Criteria

These three brands were determined to be the best not only due to their healthiness, but overall cost for consumers.  While consumers may want to get the most nutritious, they really can’t afford exurbanite prices from brands they cannot even pronounce.  As well, all three of these brands are known for having a lower cost per serving due to the serving size being less, allowing dogs to be filled easier by fibrous foods filled with all natural ingredients such as meat, fresh fruits, and vegetables.

Of course, price was not our major criteria for determining these to be the best foods.  Veterinarians swear by all three of these foods due to their ingredient lists and overall nutrition, since it allows dogs of all breeds to enjoy a healthy diet that tastes great.  Being the best dog food on the market isn’t easy, but these three brands knew how to dominate the dog food market.

Best Cat Food on the Market

To the surprise of many pet owners, these three brands were also considered to be the best cat food on the market.  With all three of these brands focused on creating natural foods that keep our pets healthy pets, it’s not too surprising that they are quickly winning the loyalty of dog and cat owners of all ages.   So, before you buy your next bag of food, make sure to consider our best dog food on the market list, as well as our best cat food on the market list.

Learn why Timberwolf dog food is considered the best for dogs of all sizes and how grain free dog food can help your dog lead a happier and healthier life.

For many larger breeds, nothing is better for your dog than Timberwolf dog food.   This natural dog food is well known for trying to be one of the best foods for carnivores like your own dog, trying to imitate the diet of a wolf.   The ancestors of our beloved dogs started out as hunters, just like the wolf, eating foods that were found in the wild.  These foods did not contain wheat, corn, or other fillers that are found in most traditional dog food, making your dog not only gain weight, but not meet their nutritional requirements.   With Timberwolf dog food, your dog will be able to enjoy a grain free dog food that will make them feel like a wolf inside.

Why Choose Timberwolf Dog Food

If you ask many breeders, they will you that Timberwolf dog food is one of the best dog foods on the market today.  While you may take this as personal opinion, Timberwolf dog food has been voted in the top five dog foods by many panels, not only due to its healthiness, but cost for the food.  Compared to many other holistic dog foods, this grain free dog food gives dog owners the best bargain, allowing dog owners to enjoy:

• No Artificial Flavors
• No Artificial Flavors
• Food Made from Fresh Vegetables and Fruits
• Made from the Best Meats

Every do wants to be a wolf inside, so why not let them go with their natural instructs by eating the approximate diet of a wolf.

Importance of a Grain Free Dog Food

You may not realize it, but even the most well known commercial dog foods are filled with grains.  These grains have almost no nutritional value for your dog since they are meant to be fillers in dog food to fill your dogs stomach faster.  What these grains actually do however is encourage your dog to eat more over time, eventually having weight issues.  As if this isn’t bad enough, more dogs are becoming allergic to different types of grains, making it necessary for them to start eating grain free dog food.  To keep your dog healthy, it is recommend that they have a food with little grains, like Timberwolf dog food.

Timberwolf  Dog Food: Eating Less is More

What makes Timberwolf dog food better than most other dog foods is the fact that it fills your dog with all natural ingredients, leaving them eating less but their body absorbing more nutrients from this food.  For this reason, most veterinarians and breeders prefer using Timberwolf dog food, since it is great for dogs of all ages.   Since your dog is going to be eating less food but stay healthier, you can expect your food budget to drastically decrease in a few months, allowing you to buy more toys for your favorite dog.   As well, you can expect a healthier, happier dog.

Dog owners are learning about Wainwrights Dog Food and how Wainwrights Dog Food Ingredients lead to healthier dogs. Learn more about Wainwrights Puppy Food too!

If you go by the opinion of many breeders, one of the best natural foods on the market is Wainwrights dog food.   For years, this natural dog food has been sold on the internet and a handful of suppliers, allowing dogs all over the world to enjoy a high quality dog food that is made with the best ingredients.    Even though you may not have heard of Wainwrights dog food, don’t be surprised if you found out that Wainwrights puppy food was the first solid foods your puppy ever had.

Wainwrights Dog Food: What’s so Special?

While Wainwrights dog food is known for being a natural dog food, what makes it so special is the Wainwrights dog food ingredients.   This well known dog food is made with the finest raw ingredients, allowing puppies and dogs alike to enjoy a whole food diet containing the best quality meats, vegetables, and fruits.   With this diet, your dog is able to have a balanced meal that will keep them lean, happy, and with a shiny coat, something not all natural foods can claim.

As well, owners enjoy the fact that Wainwrights dog food is also:

• Filled with Natural Antioxidants
• Easily Digestible
• Has No Smell

Wainwrights dog food Ingredients: Better and Cheaper Dog Food

One of the biggest misconceptions about natural dog food is that it is always more expensive than commercial brands.  In most cases, this is actually far from the truth, especially with Wainwrights dog food.   Since dogs eat less natural dog food than commercial dog foods, it is actually less money per serving, allowing one small bag of the food to equal a much larger back of wheat filled food.

What makes Wainwrights dog food more unique and cheaper than other natural dog foods, however, is the fact that the company itself does not work with any middle men.  Since you order straight from the manufacturer, you are able to get your food directly, keeping you from having to pay any extra shipping fees or storage fees from another company.  In all, this mean you have great natural food without paying any high costs.

Wainwrights Puppy Food

If you ask most breeders, however, what makes a good dog food; it is the ability to make a great puppy chow and adult food.  Wainwrights puppy food is filled with the proper balance of nutrients, allowing puppies to enjoy a natural diet that they enjoy.  Since they are not being exposed to harmful fillers, it is also less likely for your new puppy to develop any food allergies, leaving them healthy longer.  Best of all, you are let with a puppy that has a shiny coat and is already ready to play, leaving your entire family happy.

Find out why your vet loves Nutrisource dog food and how their balanced Nutrisource puppy food can lead to happier and healthier puppies within your own house.

In the United States, one of the best dog foods is Nutrisource dog food.  This natural food is considered one of the best on the market for dog owners, making it not only a healthy food, but an economical one.  Unlike most other healthy natural foods on the market, however, almost all dogs agree that nothing tastes better than Nutrisource dog food.  So, why do dogs like Nutrisource dog food so much?

Nutrisource Dog Food: You are What you Eat

Like most dog owners, one of the first things you do when you start shopping for new food is look at the ingredients on the bag.   Most of the time, you are left unsure what exactly is in the food, but know it is filled with corn, wheat, and very little meat.  The truth is, these foods are filled with artificial fillers that are suppose to fill your dog up, but instead, making them hungrier faster.  This leaves you as a dog owner constantly feeding your dog without them getting their proper nutrients.

With Nutrisource dog food, your dog is getting exactly what they need they need the first time around. This well known dry dog and cat food brands is known for making economical natural food that is made from all natural ingredients, allowing your dog to enjoy the benefit of natural food without the cost.  As well, by your dog eating Nutrisource dog food, your dog is able to:

• Eat two-thirds less
• Have Fewer trips to the bathroom
• Enjoy great tasting food
• Have their daily nutritional requirements

As well, Nutrisource dog food is proud to use only the freshest raw ingredients in their food from local farmers here in the United States.  Nutrisource dog food believes that every part of their business should be helping your dog and their community, so everything is made right in Minnesota.

Nutrisource Dog Food and Nutrisource Puppy Food: Digestive Health

What makes Nutrisource dog food so unique, however, is highly digestive formula.  Instead of leaving your dog bloated or eating more, Nutrisource was specially designed to be easier for dogs to digest, letting them eat less but by filled by fibrous ingredients.   Since dogs only eat two-thirds of the amount of competitor dog food, it also allows you to pay less per feeding, keeping more money in your pocketbook without increasing your vet bills.

Nutrisource Puppy Food

Of course, Nutrisource dog food also has one of the best puppy chows on the market.  Puppies have a unique dietary requirement that is understood by this well known brand.  With 40 years of dog food experience, they were able to create a nutritious dog food for puppies that allows them to stay healthy, while still eating less.

If you are looking for a dog food that will keep your dog health through its entire life, you will do great with Nutrisource dog food or Nutrisource puppy chow.  Once your dog has tasted this dog food, you will wonder why you waited so long to try this great dog food.

Learn why a low protein dog food is better for some dogs, and what you can purchase at Petsmart.  Also, learn why a low protein diet for dogs is important.

Finding the right low protein dog food for our best friend can sometimes be challenging, especially if our vet recommends changing their food immediately.  In many cases, our dog is changed to a low protein diet for dogs due to healthy reasons, which become all too common in senior dogs.  Luckily, there are a few well known brands of low protein dog food that we can trust to feed our dog that are healthy and won’t destroy our budgets.

Starting a Low Protein Diet For Dogs

When many people are told their dog needs to start on a low protein dog food, they usually think their veterinarian has lost it.  How could it even be possibly be healthy for a dog to have little protein in their diet?  In many cases, veterinarians avoid putting dogs on a low protein diet, but some medical condition requires dogs to have low protein dog food, such as any kidney disease.  Since this is a specialty food, however, you can expect your dog to have some resistance to this new food.

Purchasing Low Protein Dog Food  at Petsmart

While you can buy low protein dog food from your veterinarian, this is usually not the most cost effective way of buying this food.  What your vet sells will work, but you will find that special ordering this food isn’t necessary, especially with the variety of low protein dog food that is sold at Petsmart.   Many of the foods that are sold at Petsmart are made from all natural ingredients, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of your dog being on a low protein diet for dogs without having to worry about the quality of your dogs food.

Some of the most well known low protein dog foods sold at Petsmart are:

• Royal Canine
• Bil-Jac
• Blue Buffalo
• Petsmart By Nature

If your Petsmart does not carry any of these brands, feel free to talk to an associate and they will be happy to order this food for you.

You Have your Low Protein Dog Food: Now What?

No matter what anyone tells you, most dogs are not thrilled about having their food changed.  Even though some vets will tell you that your dog will love their new low protein diet for dogs, they will likely snub their new food.  To help them adjust to the change, start slowing mixing the new food with their old food.  Keep increasing the amount of low protein dry food each day, until you are able to eliminate the old food.  This will take about six weeks with most dogs.  If your dog is having issue with the new food, however, or is showing signs of an allergic reaction, stop the food immediately and talk to your vet.

You may find yourself experimenting with a variety of low protein dog foods but once you find the right one, your dog and you will be happy.  Remember, your dog is a part of your family, so make sure they eat the best, your dog will thank you for it!

Know the foods dogs should not eat, as well as foods cats should not eat.  Learn what healthy foods your dogs can eat for ultimate nutrition.

Before you get a dog, it is important to know what foods dogs should not eat.  Many of us grew up giving dogs whatever they wanted off of our table, not realizing that sometimes some of the most healthy, flavorful foods are actually quite deadly.  While some of these foods may not be deadly, they can cause long term harm to not only dogs, but cats, since many of the things dogs should not eat are also foods cats should not eat.  So, how do you know which treats are best for your favorite pup or kitty?

Foods Dog Should Not Eat

If you are someone who has animals, you probably stress quite a bit about your dog or cat getting a hold of something that could possibly be harmful. Around the holiday season, we worry about chocolate and many poisonous plants, but what about that turkey dressing on the table, or that delicious homemade eggnog that Aunt Marlene made?   Even though we normally don’t think about it, there are quite a few foods dogs should not eat.

In the table below are some of the most harmful foods dogs should not eat that are found on most common tables.  When many people see these foods, they are usually quite shocked since they have found that their dogs absolutely love these foods.   On the list, we will also be including foods cats should not eat.

Things Dogs Should Not Eats : Helpful Chart of Foods

Foods Dogs Can Eat

While the list above may seem quite intimidating, there are also quite a few foods that are quite healthy for dogs.

Some of the best foods for dogs include:

• Berries
• Cooked Chicken and Beef
• Sliced Apples
• Baby Carrots
• Green Beans
• Bananas

Even this may be healthy foods, never have them be the sole food you give your dog, since they should mostly be living on dog food.  Remember, almost all human food should be included in foods dogs should not eat for better health.

Need cat houses outdoor? Having outdoor cat house plans is important if you’re going to construct cat houses for winter. Read more about buying & making here.

As a caretaker of feral or outdoor cats, you are probably considered putting some cat houses outdoor to give your cat’s better protection this winter.  While your cats will probably love having shelter as the cold weather hits, you can’t help but be stumped at where exactly to buy these houses, or where to find outdoor cat house plans.  Luckily, there are a few places that understand that cat houses for winter are necessary and have started selling these wonderful feline winter homes.

Cat Houses Outdoor: What to Look For in a Cat Winter Home

While some people say you can make cat houses outdoor out of just about anything, realize that cats are very fussy creatures.  Like you, they have certain expectations when it comes to a shelter.  First and foremost, cat houses outdoor must be insulted to keep heat from leaving the home.  Cats that are entering this home are looking for a way to keep warm for the winter, so any loss of heat will actually discourage them from using this outdoor shelter.

As well as keeping in heat, cat houses outdoor also need to be able to withstand the elements.  Many plastics can crack in extreme cold, so make sure to go with think plastic or preferably wood when you are starting to build or purchase your cat’s winter home.

Places to Purchase Cat Houses for Winter

If you are like many pet owners, you more than likely do not have the time or resource to build your own cat houses.  Many stores on the internet have started selling cat houses for winter, knowing that many individuals want to protect the feral cats in their neighborhood.   When purchasing a shelter from a site specializing in cat houses for winter, always make sure to get it in wood since this will withstand the elements, as well as multiple winters.

Some of the most well known places that sell these shelters are:

• Cozy Cat Furniture.com
• Cats Play.com
• American Pet Store

Depending on your budget, you can easily purchase cat homes for one or multiple cats at each of these sites.

Outdoor Cat House Plans

For those who have carpentry talent, you may enjoy building your own cat homes.  While you can be a creative architect designing a home for your feral feline friends, it really isn’t necessary with all the outdoor cat house plans that are available on the internet today.  Some of the most well known sites that sell or have these plans include:

• Instructables.com
• Pact Humane Society
• Ehow.com

At the end of the day, your favorite felines will be happy with their new cat homes.  Just make sure to air out any human scent first to make sure they get the most enjoyment out of these houses.

Learn how lysine for cats and lysine for kittens is beneficial for your cat.  Learn the proper lysine dosage for cats and how lysine powder for cats can help.

Due to most cats having herpes, lysine for cats is becoming even more popular as more pet owners are learning about this virus.   While many people may not have known about lysine for cats and lysine for kittens in the past, it is becoming even more popular in many pet stores and supermarket to help more cats deal with the symptoms of this annoying virus.  Since nearly every cat in the United States has this virus, more cat owners are trying to find lysine powder for cats or lysine in any of its common forms.

What Lysine for Cats

Lysine for cats is a natural amino acid that mimics the herps virus, a very common virus that affects most of our feline friends.  Even though it has the same name, the herpes virus that affects cats is not the same one that is in humans and cannot affect humans.  Even though it does not harm us in any way, it can make our cat miserable if their immune system cannot deal with the virus on its own.  The only way that cats show any sign of this virus is through their eyes being inflamed, and possibly sneezing, making it very difficult for pet owners to determine if their cat has this virus.  To play it safe, more cat owners have been giving lysine for cats and lysine to kittens for their felines to keep them healthy.

Lysine Powder for Kittens and Other Forms of Lysine

Currently, Lysine can be purchased in four different forms:

• Powder
• Pill
• Gel
• Paste

The most popular form of lysine for cats and lysine for kittens is the powder and pill form of this drug.   While the pill may be the most common way pet stores sell this drug, it is best to give it with Greenies pill treats, since most cats hate taking pills.  The best way to give Lysine is with the assistance of Lysine powder for cats, since this is much easier to give your cat in food.

Lysine Dosage for Cats

The common dosage for lysine for cats is…

• 500 milligrams per dosage for cats
• 250 milligrams per dosage for kittens

No matter if you have a cat or kitten, they should be having lysine twice a day if they are showing symptoms. If you are giving lysine as a preventative medicine, however, you may just want to give this drug once per day.   While this may be the common dosage, it is always best to ask your veterinarian how much they believe your cat should be receiving when it comes to Lysine.  Remember, while Lysine may be safe, it may not be the best option for all cats and kittens, so always ask your vet first before giving Lysine to any of your animals.

Learn how Feliway for cats and Feliway for dogs can be used to alleviate stress in cats and dogs in your home, just by using Feliway spray for cats.

For cats that seem to be very anxious, you have probably heard many people use Feliway for cat to make them more comfortable.    Unlike humans, cats do not like change in their environment, ranging from a new family member to a big move, making it more likely that they will start spraying in your home to mark their territory. While this may seem disgusting to you, this is a natural way for your cat to release pheromones, making it clear that this ‘territory’ is their home.  Even though we may understand this behavior, we normally don’t condone it, making Feliway for cats a much better alternative.

What is Feliway for Cats

Feliway for cats is actually a synthetic compound that replicates the pheromones that are made by felines.  This pheromone is released in cats whenever they mark a new territory, allowing them to feel more comfortable with their surroundings.  By making your home smell like this pheromone (which we can’t smell) your cat is able to feel more secure in nearly any environment, allowing them to cope with nearly any situation, alleviating their stress and desire to spray.

While there are some mixed reviews on the results of Feliway for cats, many owners swear by Feliway.  In 91% of clinical trials, Feliway was proven to interrupt or eliminate urine marking, allowing owners and cats to live peacefully in one stress free home.  As well, Feliway reduced many cats need to scratch as well, reducing most destructive behavior inside the home.

Feliway Spray for Cats

Since Feliway for cats is become more popular, many pet stores are selling this very popular scenter.  Currently, it is being sold as a Feliway spray for cats and as an electric diffuser.  Most individual who have used this product, however, use it in its spray form.   In the products spray form, pet owners can also bring this anywhere they like, allowing them to spray areas that their cat recently:

• Marked
• Scratched
• Destroyed

One other place that many other pet owners prefer using Feliway is during traveling, since it alleviates most traveling anxiety.

Feliway for Dogs

Recently, Feliway for cats also released a product designed special for dogs.  These products works the same way as the cat version, only tuned to the smell of dog pheromones.  Since dogs and puppies can easily become more anxious with change, more pet owners are enjoying using this spray or electric defuser in their own home.  Feliway for dogs has shown a great deal of success alleviating the stress that comes with:

• Moving
• New Family Members
• Loud Noises
• Loneliness

Being fairly inexpensive, Feliway is a great product for cat and dog owners to experiment with in their own homes.  If you are unsure if this product is right for you, make sure to get information about Feliway from your local veterinarian.

Learn why cat health problems symptoms are important for cat owners to know, especially when it comes to cat stress symptoms, and cat eye infections symptoms.

Being a pet owner, it is important to know about cat health problems symptoms.  While none of us like to think about our cat being sick, knowing the warning signs can help us prevent more serious issues from developing in our cat.  Many pet owners who ignore these symptoms soon found themselves at their veterinarian, paying high vet bills for an illness that could have been avoided.  With a bit of information, however, you can avoid the most common health problems by knowing the symptoms.

Most Common Cat Health Problems Symptoms

When it comes to cat health problems that have symptoms, there are four major types of illnesses that show cat health problems symptoms:

• Feline Stress
• Cat Eye Infections
• Hazy Eye

While these may not seem very severe at first, they can quickly lead to something more serious.  Below, we will be going into detail about each of these conditions, along with their symptoms.

Feline Stress

For most cat owners, the most common cat health problems symptoms that you will be seeing are related to feline stress.  Cats are very sensitive to their environment and it is easy for them to feel stressed.  When a cat is stressed, they are likely to:

• Spray
• Pace
• Not Eat
• Tremble
• Meow Excessively

Just like humans, excessive feline stress can shorten the life of your cat, making it one of the most severe cat health problems symptoms.  As well, it can eventually lead to other issues for your cat.

Cat Eye Infections Symptoms

Like humans, cats are easily prone to cat eye infections.  Being the most serious cat health problems symptoms, cat eye problems can easily be a sign of more serious conditions.  You should go see your vet immediately if your cat is showing some of the following symptoms.

• Loss of Vision
• Redness
• Bulging or Sunken Eyes
• Cloudiness

While many people may think talking to your vet about these issues may be overkill, it is better to be safe than sorry.  Some of these cat health problems symptoms can lead to serious issues such as your cat becoming blind or needing serious surgery.  Since no one likes to see their cat suffer, just make an appointment with your vet if you think you notice these symptoms.

Hazy Eye Symptom

Out of all the cat health problems symptoms, nothing is scarier to see than your cat’s eyes clouding or a condition known as hazy eye.   Usually hazy eye is the first sign of serious eye issues, such as glaucoma or cataracts.  Since surgery is in order with these conditions, it is better to bring your cat to a doctor sooner rather than later.  In some cases, your cat may even become blind with hazy eye, so always take it seriously.

Your cat’s health is important, so always take it seriously.

Oral health cats is becoming a big topic, mostly since many owners know little about cat dental health.  Learn proper dental health in cats and kittens.

Looking at your veterinarian’s websites, you have probably noticed an area called ‘oral health cats.”  While most other areas on your vet’s site may seem rather straightforward, you can’t help but wonder what exactly oral health cats means.  We spent a great deal of time worrying about our family’s dental health, but very few of us think of the dental health of our cats.  As a responsible pet owner, it is important that you learn more about cat dental health to better help your cat’s teeth stay healthy and white.

Oral Health Cats

To the surprise of many pet owners, you are expected to brush your cat’s teeth at least once a day, similar to what you would do for you own.  Since many of us did not grow up worrying about our cat dental health, we have almost no dental products for cats in our house.  While you can spend some time feeling guilty about not taking care of your cat’s teeth, it is not too late to start practicing proper dental health in cats.

So, why is the oral health of cats so important?  For one, your cat depends on its teeth for everything, from chewing to playing with toys.  If gingivitis and other gum diseases take hold, your cats teeth can rot, making its life more difficult and painful than you can possibly imagine.  To keep this from happening, you need to practice good dental health by brushing your teeth and taking it to the vet for oral cleanings.  So, what is oral health cats?  It’s making sure your cat’s teeth have the love they need.

Dental Health in Cats:  What Happens at the Vet

While bringing your cat for a dental cleaning may seem scary, good dental health in cats is necessary and has very little risk.  When your cat goes to see the doctor for a cleaning, they will be there for twenty to forty minutes under anesthesia, getting their teeth cleaned and polished.  As well, they will be receiving x-rays of their teeth, similar to what happens to you when you visit the dentist.   To keep your cat healthy, it is recommended that they visit the vet each year for a cleaning and checkup.

Dental Products for Cats

Along with practicing good oral hygiene, it is recommended that you have a variety of different dental products for cats.  For your cat, you will need:

• A Small Toothbrush
• Dental Treats (preferably Greenies)
• Pet Toothpaste

All of these items can be found at your local pet store, such as Petsmart or Petco at a relatively low price. No matter how much these dental products for cats cost, remember that your cat is worth it.

Should you choose puppy day care or puppy sitting for your dog while you are at work?  Learn the benefits of doggy day care and dog sitting to help you choose.

Choosing to take your puppy to puppy day care or to a puppy sitter is a major decision; especially if you are trying to find what best fits your dog.  We all want to do what is right for our dog, even if it means we must shell out a bit more money to make sure our pup is happy.  Yet, many people don’t seem to understand the difference between a puppy sitting and doggie daycare, a misconception that could easily cause issues if you do not understand the benefits and consequences of both types of dog care.

Puppy Day Care: What to Expect

When many of us think of day care, we think of the facility where we bring out kids while we are working.  In many ways, doggie daycare is the same.  At a puppy daycare, your dog is being watched by professionals where they have supervised playtime both inside and out.   Just like a child daycare, your puppy is also matched with dogs of their own age and size, allowing everyone to play safely in a secure environment.

Most puppy day cares also run on a set premade schedule, where you must drop off your dog at certain and pick it up before they close.  For those who work non-traditional hours, you may find doggie day care to be a bit too restricting.

Private Dog Sitter: What is Dog Sitting

A dog sitter is someone who watches your dog in your own home or their home, and watches only a number of dogs at a time.  Usually, this person is another pet owner who loves dogs.  For many puppies, a puppy sitter is very beneficial, since puppy sitting can take place in your own home, allowing your dog to continue their normal potty training.

The one drawback to puppy sitting is the fact that not every sitter has the same standards or ability to take dogs. Most only take five to ten dogs, allowing the dogs to play either in their house, or outdoors.  While they may be able to work around your schedule, they are not a very large business in most cases.  If your private puppy sitter is sick, you likely will not have anywhere to bring your dog that day, causing you possible issues.

Doggie Day Care vs. Puppy Sitting

When trying to decide which is better for you, Doggie Day Care of Puppy sitting, you need to take the following into account:

• Cost  (Day care is $8 – $25 day, Puppy Sitter $25 – $50)
• How Social is your puppy
• Cleanliness
• Opinion of Staff

Our dogs are important to us, so make sure you spent some time touring both facilities, no matter if it’s a puppy day care or a dog sitting business.  By doing this, you will make both you and your dog less stressed and comfortable.

Looking for names of cats for your feline friend? Find popular names for cats, including boy names for cats, right here. Get creative with pet naming!

Trying to find names of cats on the internet can sometimes be tricky, especially if you are having a hard time finding boy names for cats.  In movies and many other Medias, we have heard quite a few names for cats, but many of these cats are female, stumping us if we are trying to think of a new, fun name for our new kitten.  Since your cat is very likely to have this name for the rest of its life, its best to have a name that everyone in your family loves, especially if it fits the personality of your new feline.

Popular Names of Cats

When trying to find a name for your cat, you have probably heard quite a few popular names of cats.  While some of these name suggestion may have been from your friends, some of the best names actually come from your children’s favorite cartoons or literature.  From our childhood and our children’s, some of the most well known names of cats that we know include:

• Garfield
• Felix
• Figaro
• Tom
• Sylvester

Most families with children have loved using these boy names for cats, especially if the cat looks similar to the cartoon version of these male felines.

Other Popular Names for Cats

If you do not have children, you are likely wanting to other names of cats that are popular.  Most of the time, we pick names for our cats from literature or just names that we personally like.  Some of our personal favorite popular names for cats come from mythology.  No matter what your personal view are on the matter, you probably have your own ideas when it comes to names for cats.  Recently, the most popular names for cats were said to be:

• Hugo
• Apollo
• Max
• Fred
• Elliot

For those who are wishing for a more original name, however, you may want to consider using a baby name book.  In many of these books or online baby name sites, you can find a name based on its meaning, allowing you cat to have a name that fit’s their unique personality.

Names for Cats: How to Choose

Even if you don’t like the most popular names of cats, you can still create you own name or follow some of our useful tips when it comes to naming your cat.

1.   Always pick a name that fits your cat.  Cat’s have unique personality, like humans, so pick a name that captures your cat.

2.   Pick a name that everyone in your family likes.  If everyone starts calling your cat different names, it will just be confused.

3.   Pick simple names that are not over three syllables.  Your cat will likely learn his name faster this way.

If you cannot find the perfect name in the first few days, take your time to pick a name.  No one will blame you for taking a week to choose a name, so just relax, there is no rush finding a name for your new male cat.

Learn about toilet training cats, & what feline toilet training means. This alternate way of house training cats might be better than cats litter box training.

Have you ever gone on Youtube and looked up toilet training cats?  It is almost fascinating looking at the number of felines who have gone through feline toilet training , especially if they flush the toilet on their own.  While this may be more complex than cats litter box training, it is better for everyone in your family since it allows your cat to be neater and less germs to be spread around your whole household.  The big question is, however, is toilet training cats really that difficult?

Toilet Training Cats: Can My Cat Do it?

While some people may think toilet training cats is a hoax, it is actually something many families have done to avoid using a litter box.  Unfortunately, feline toilet training isn’t for every cat.  Some nervous cats may never like the idea of giving up their litter box, so expect quite a bit of resistance.  Almost every cat can do it, even if your cat is not a feline Einstein.

If you are looking for something to start house training cats, however, we recommend that you first start with a litter box.  This is a quick way for them to be house broken and house training cats only requires litter and litter box.  Cats are naturally used to using sand or dirt to cover their feces, so don’t be surprised if this takes about a day to work.  For feline toilet training, however, you should expect this to take three to six months.

Feline Toilet Training

Many people who have tried toilet training cats have found that feline toilet training is very easy, as long as you have a lot of patience.  Cats are very nervous creatures, so the process may take as little as a month to almost six months to work.  Usually to begin toilet training you will need:

• A metal bowl the size of the opening of your toilet
• Sand litter
• Papers or books (to put under the litter box)
• Your cats normal litter box.

House Training Cats Toilet Training Tutorials

To help make the toilet training go a little easier, it is recommend that you look at  a tutorial of someone who has gone through toilet training cats in the past.  Many families do this with all of their cats and some places are happy to answer your questions.  Some of the best Toilet Training Cats Tutorial can be found below:

• How to Toilet Train Your Cat
• WikiHow: Toilet Training Cats
• Litter Kwitter

Remember to be patient with your cat since this will be a very stressful  experience for him or her.  In the end, however, you will find toilet training cats to be worth it, especially when you have to never again clean a litter box.

Use portable dog kennels for all of your dogs needs and learn why portable dog crates are great for you.  Learn the uses of portable dog shelters and dog crates.

If you are a dog owner, you know that portable dog kennels are essential if you are planning on traveling.  Even if you are not planning on going anywhere with your dog often, the ability to be able to bring your dog with you on trips is something that excites many dog owners.  As well, many people love using portable dog crates for housebreaking, since these crates can easily be moved out of the way when they are not in use.  One thing is for certain, nothing is more useful for a new dog owner than a good portable dog kennel.

Purpose of Portable Dog Kennels

Every dog owner know they need a dog kennel, but very few think of buying portable dog kennels for their dogs.  Portable dog kennels have a variety of uses that many dog owners do not even consider, including:

• Potty Training
• Going to the Vet
• Discipline
• Doggie Outings

Even though dogs should rarely be put in a kennel for punishment, kennels are a great way to get your dog used to traveling and staying with you on hotel trips.  As well, many portable kennels today can even double as toys, allowing dogs to have a unique dog house in the home.

Portable Dog Shelters: Camping Fun

When many people see portable dog shelters, they truly have no clue what to think.  In many cases, these kennels look like fabric tents or houses that can easily be taken apart.  While they are not made to actually keep your dog in, they are a great way to allow your kids to camp with their favorite dog or allow your dog to have its own tent during a camping trip.  In most homes, however, these fun portable dog shelters are usually used as dog play areas where you dog can play privately on their own.

Portable Dog Crates: Housebreaking Made Easy

For many families, the most common use of a portable dog kennel is as a training tool.  Many families on a budget use these dog crates to house break their dog, giving them a small area to sleep while they learn to control their bladder.  As well, these portable dog crates can also double as a way to keep your dog confined during the day.

Many pet owners put their dogs in these kennels while they are work, giving them a small area where they can play, along with use the problem.  While it may not be preferred over other methods, it is a good cost effect way to help dogs learn the whole house breaking method.   Once a dog is house broken, however, is recommend that these dog crates only be used for traveling.

Know common dog skin conditions that could cause your dog skin problems.  Learn about dog hair loss and how dog skin cancer can seriously harm your favorite dog.

If you have a dog, you can expect your dog to have dog skin conditions at some point in their life.  Due to many breeds sensitive skin, they are more prone to dog skin problems, leaving them to have possible dog hair loss or other skin issues.  As a pet owner, it is important for you to know the various dog skin conditions so that you can see when your dog needs to go to the vet.  While you may not be able to do something about all of your dog’s skin issues, you can at least keep them from being more uncomfortable.

Well Known Dog Skin Conditions

For dogs, having dog skin conditions is just a way of life.  As their human, it is your job to see when they are feeling uncomfortable, since they depend on you to make them feel better. The most well known dog skin conditions include:

• Staph Infections
• Food Allergies
• Ringworms
• Parasites (like fleas)
• Skin Cancer

Since most dogs can’t tell us what is happening, it is our job to know what to look for with these dog skin conditions.

Signs of Dog Skin Problems

Many of these conditions have similar symptoms; making pinning down your dog’s issues a bit challenging.  To play it safe, it is best to know the common symptoms for most dog skin conditions.  If your dog is showing any of the following symptoms, it is time to schedules a visit with your veterinarian.

• Hair Loss
• Odd Growth
• Discolored Skin
• Raw Looking Skin

None of us like to see our dogs feeling uncomfortable or pain, so make sure to take these signs seriously.  In many cases, your dog will tell you something is wrong by trying to bite or scratch these areas.  Dogs naturally want to get rid of the area where they are sick, leading to possible other injury if they don’t have a human nearby.   Sometimes the answer to these problems can be as simple as finding fleas, but take any sign of a skin condition seriously.

Dog Skin Cancer

One of the worst dog skin conditions that your dog can have is dog skin cancer.  For almost every dog, the first sign of dog skin cancer is dog hair loss or increased skin sensitivity.  Most of the time, it looks like your dog has either been in a fight, or is going bold.  As well, your dog may have a growth in this area, depending on how serious of a case your dog has of dog skin cancer.  Either way, make sure to bring your dog to the vet immediately if they are showing sign of any dog skin conditions.

Making your own dog kennel plans is the perfect way to start when wanting to build a dog kennel. Check out these dog kennel designs & get started!

While getting dog kennel plans may be the first step to building a dog house, remember that building dog kennels is a lot of work.  When many families talk about building one of these dog houses, they think they are getting themselves into a small weekend project.  Most of the time, however, they find out that they are in over their head, mostly because they didn’t think ahead on what all would be necessary with the dog kennel design.   With a bit of planning however, you can put your dog kennel plans into motion, allowing your family and you to help build the best dog kennel design.

Dog Kennel Plans: What You Will Need

One of the main reasons people get in over their head with dog kennel plans is not having everything they need at the beginning of the project.  On most blueprints for dog kennels, you will find a list of materials that will be needed.  Most of the time, this will include very basic items, but make sure you buy quality items when buying things for your dog’s kennel.  The people who made your dog kennel design don’t think about the weather in different areas, take this into account.

When buying materials for your dog kennels, make sure to have:

• Extra materials.  Buy 1/3 more than you will need.
• Weather Related Insulation:  Don’t buy cheap materials if you live in a very warm or very cold area.
• Make good decisions when it comes to wood.  You only want to build this house once.

While this may seem trivial, realize that many people don’t have the right amount of parts during building, making it frustrating for many families who are building a dog house after the hardware store closes.

Design a Dog Kennel: Proper Planning

While it may be fun to design a dog kennel or use unique dog kennel plans online, realize that not all designs are right for all situations.  If you have multiple dogs, one small dog house isn’t going to be enough.  Make sure to take your dog’s size, age, and the amount of dogs you expect to get into the dog kennels before you even begin building.  Nothing is more frustrating than building a kennel your dogs won’t even use, so make sure to take this into account.

Creating Perfect Dog Kennels

After you have everything for your dog house, you will be ready to start building.  As long as you plan ahead, you will find that building dog kennels can be a very fun summer project.  Just make sure to have your dog kennels plans together before you even start building, this will not only save you time, but money in the long run.

Looking for cheap dog kennels, cheap dog houses, and cheap dog fences? Learn where you can find the best doggie deals without leaving the comfort of your home.

All of us want to be able to find cheap dog kennels when we are looking to replace our dog’s kennel.  While we know we can get a kennel from most pet stores, they are usually quite pricey, leaving us hurting for cash later at bill time if we spend this amount of money.  What many people don’t realize, however, is that you can find cheap dog kennels online or at many shops in your own city.  Best of all, you can also find cheap dog houses and cheap dog fences if you know where to look for these hot deals.

Finding Cheap Dog Kennels

Nothing is more exciting than finding a good bargain for your dog, especially when it comes to cheap dog kennels.  Every dog owner needs to have a kennel or two, especially if they have multiple dogs.  As well, kennels are quite pricey at most pet stores.  Unlike some other items for dogs, the best places to find cheap dog kennels are actually on the internet.   Depending on the size of your dog, you can find cheap dog kennels online anywhere from 40 to 80% off the normal sales price in stores.

For many people, however, the trick is knowing where to find these kennels on the internet.  The top three places to find cheap dog kennels online is:

• Price Grabber (a site that finds the cheapest retailers online)
• Amazon.com
• Pet Mountain.com

If you are like many dog owners, you will be surprised when you see the price of these cheap dog kennels.

Cheap Dog Houses Online

Along with being able to find cheap dog kennels, many pet owners want to be able to find cheap dog houses.  Every dog deserves to have a good dog house, especially a nice wooden one.  Most of the time, these dog houses are quite expensive, leaving many pet owners to go with cheaper dog houses that fall apart in no time.  With a bit of planning and knowing where to look, you can get nice dog houses for the price of most cheap dog kennels.

Some of the most well known places to get nice dog houses include:

• Pet Mountain
• Ebay
• Price Grabber

Cheap Dog Fences: The Other Invisible Fence

Many of us love the idea of having an Invisible Fence, but let’s face it, they are expensive.  To afford one of these fences, we need an imitation of these fences. These cheap dog fences are relatively inexpensive compared to the real thing, and they do work!  The best places to buy these fences are..

• Pet Mountain
• Petsmart
• Petco

With great prices like these, who wouldn’t want cheap dog kennels, cheap dog fences, and cheap dog houses?

Learn why dog minders are the new way to take care of pets during the day. Compare why dog sitting is so much better than dog boarding for your favorite dog.

Have you ever considered using dog minders to take care of your dog’s needs during the day?   Most dogs spend most of their time alone while their owners are at work, leaving them not only lonely, but more likely to take part in destructive behavior.  By hiring a dog sitting business to walk your dog or play with them for a set amount of time during the day, you are adding some fun and exercise to your dog’s day.  In the end, many owners even enjoy coming home to happy, but exhausted dog.

Dog Minders: Dog Sitting Businesses

The first time you heard someone talking about dog minders, you were probably thinking of a psychic for dogs or a dog therapist, but in actuality, this is an old term for a person who takes part in dog sitting.  As part of a dog minders job, they are expected to:

• Walk Dogs
• Play with Dogs
• Possibly Housesit
• Watching Other Family Pets

As well, most dog minders are also pet owners as well, meaning that they are able to give the same sort of care that you give your dog at home.  In some situations, some businesses also have medical professionals working for them who are capable of giving your dog insulin shots or other medicine, making it ideal for you if you need to leave town for business, or pleasure.

Dog Sitting: How it Helps You

Of course, dog sitting is ideal for individuals who work long hours but still want to come home to their favorite dog.   Depending on the care your dog needs, dog sitters can come and give your dog as much individual attention as they need, giving them walks and desired playtime during the day.  While this may not give your dog as much attention as doggy daycare, it is ideal for those dogs who are a bit more shy since the same person comes to visit and care for your dog each day.

As well, many dog sitting services also are happy to house sit and take care of your dog overnight while you are away.  Since your dog is spoiled rotten by most companies, it allows you to be stress free on your trip, especially when you work with companies that give you constant statuses on your dog through email or other online services.

Why Dog Minders are Better than Dog Boarding Kennels

If you have ever put your dog in a kennel, you know that dog boarding is a very traumatizing experience for both you and your dog.  Most kennels are not as clean as your own home and put a great deal of stress on your dog since they are near other strange dogs.  As if being stuffed in a cage for hours at a time isn’t enough to worry you, most kennels also do not have the time to give your dog individual attention, meaning that they are truly lonely.  Since dog boarding services can range $15 to $40 a day, dog boarding just isn’t worth it if you can get a dog minder ahead of time.

Start the adventure to build a dog kennel with the best dog kennel plans. Learn where to find build a dog house tutorials and the best dog kennel blueprints.

When many people get a dog, the first thing they want to do is build a dog kennel.  Nothing is more traditional than spending the weekend learning how to build a dog house, especially when you can have quality bonding time with the kids.   While it may seem like a great deal, realize that the process to build a dog kennel is very time consuming, and will likely be more expensive to make if you have little carpentry experience.  If you are looking for a fun project for the weekend, however, you will find that building a dog house is a lot of fun, especially if you have good dog kennel blueprints.

Learning How to Build a Dog Kennel

If you are someone who enjoys working with your hands, you will love learning how to build a dog kennel.  Those who are unused to building items like this, however, will find that the process to build a dog kennel or dog house is very trying.  If you are one of those people who think this will be a quick, labor less project you should consider buying a dog house inside.  Others will learn the satisfaction of being able to build a dog kennel with their own two hands.

Dog Kennel Plans: The Right Tutorials

While the process to build a dog kennel isn’t easy, it can be made much simpler if you have a good tutorial to follow during the building process. Many good tutorials even come with an easy to build set of dog kennel blueprints, allowing you to learn to build a dog house much easier than you would from just a set of plans.

In our opinion, the best tutorials when it comes to learning how to build a dog kennel or a dog house are:

• EHow: Building A Dog House
• DIY Build Your Own Dog House
• Nuts and Bolts: How to Build A Dog House

Any of these tutorials can help you build a dog house or kennel.   Just make sure to follow the direction closely to have good results.

Where to Find Great Dog Kennel Blueprints

Once you are ready to start building your new dog house or kennel, the fun part is finding dog kennel blueprints.  Just like houses, you can just about any type of blueprint, being from the traditional dog house to mini versions of some houses.  While some of these dog kennel blueprints are meant for amateurs, they are quite fun to try building.

Some of the best dog kennel blue prints to build a dog kennel can be found at:

• Kennel Design
• http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/?p=234 Learn the best cat health advice with great cat health tips. Additionally, learn cat care advice and dog health advice from the true experts online ]]>

  Learn the best cat health advice with great cat health tips. Additionally, learn cat care advice and dog health advice from the true experts online.

  If this is your first cat, you are probably looking for some good cat health advice to keep your cat healthy through most of its life.  While some people think that cats take care of themselves, this is usually not the best way to take care of your cat, especially if you want them to be as healthy as possible.  Once you have seen some good cat care advice however, you will agree with most other people that taking care of your cat is not only reward, but quite fun.

  Finding Good Cat Care Advice

  Like nearly any topic on the internet, you are quickly learning that everyone has an opinion when it comes to proper cat health.  Some people believe that you should let your cat do as it likes, while others believe that cats need quite a bit of human assistance to stay healthy.   Most good cat health advice agrees that the right answer is somewhere in the middle, allowing cats to have their independence but still need human assistance for some things.

  If you look at most cat care advice, they will agree that cats will need a handful of things to stay healthy, such as:

  • Yearly Examinations from a Vet
  • Yearly Teeth Cleaning and Polishing
  • Nutritious Food

  Cat Health Tips: What’s Important

  While some of the things mentioned above may seem like common sense, there are a surprising amount of people who believe that cat’s should only go to the vet when they are sick.  Like human’s, preventative health always keeps the nasty vet visits from happening.  When it comes to good cat health tips, most veterinarians recommend that:

  • Your cat gets a checkup once a year, to look for problems as they age.
  • Have their yearly vaccines for rabies and distemper, even if they are indoor cats
  • Have a yearly or bi yearly teeth check up, depending on the cat’s age
  • Visit a veterinarian if they are pregnant

  As well, your vet is full of knowledge when it comes to cat care advice.  They are happy to give you updates on the latest pet products, as well as where you can get good cat health advice on the internet.

  Dog Health Advice: What Your Other Pet Needs

  Many people don’t realize it, but dogs need much of the same care as cats.  When you are looking at most good cat health advice, realize that it is also good dog health advice.  Your dog should be visiting the vet just as often each year, so to make thing easier, you may want to see if your dog and cat can go to the vet at the same time.  Your vet may even give you a multi pet discount.

  ]]> http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/cat-health-advice/feed/ 0 http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/feline-distemper/ http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/feline-distemper/#comments Thu, 20 Jan 2011 21:00:20 +0000 Susan http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/?p=237 Learn why feline distemper is one of the most deadly feline diseases for cats and why owners of cats need to know feline distemper symptoms and prevention]]>

  Learn why feline distemper is one of the most deadly feline diseases for cats and why owners of cats need to know feline distemper symptoms and prevention.

  Many cat owners get their cat vaccinated, but are unsure what exactly feline distemper really is or why their cat needs a feline distemper vaccine if they spend most of their time in the house.  While some individuals may think that feline distemper isn’t a major deal for indoor cats, it can easily become deadly if your cat or kitten is ever exposed to other cats.   Like many other feline diseases, however, smart cat parents can avoid their cat ever getting this disease or get their cat help immediately if they start seeing feline distemper symptoms in their cat.

  What is Feline Distemper

  While we all know about the feline distemper disease, very few of us actually know why our cat is being vaccinated for feline distemper.  This viral disease caused by the parvovirus, a left threatening virus that can be found nearly anywhere in our home that is not regular disinfected.   For our feline friends, this means most of the areas where they live or play.  Once your cat catches this feline disease, their immune system is attacked, destroying bone marrow and white blood cells in their system.  For cats this can mean death from other bacteria or viruses due to their weakened immune system that is trying to fight this virus.

  Feline Distemper Symptoms

  If your cat for some reason has not received their feline distemper vaccine, it is recommended that they receive it as soon as possible.   This feline disease is especially deadly for kittens, since they are the most likely to catch this virus due to being too young to get the vaccine themselves.   If you are worried your cat may have feline distemper, you will see the following feline distemper symptoms in your cat or kitten:

  • Fever
  • Appetite Loss
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Lethargy

  Sometimes these symptoms can be present for other feline diseases, so to play it safe always call your veterinarian if you are seeing these symptoms.  Most kittens that will get this disease will die, unlike cats, so make sure to get your kitten help immediately.

  Feline Distemper Vaccine and Treatment

  The best way to prevent feline distemper is to be proactive.  Your kitten should be receiving their first dosage of the feline distemper vaccine when they reach eight week of age.  From there, they will receive another booster four weeks later.  After that, they will be getting this shot annually.

  For the unfortunate cats that have this disease, they will have to fight off the infection on their own with the assistance of your vet.   While your cat will likely survive, their immune system is weak and they will likely be very sick.  While you can get feline distemper tests through the mail, also go to your vet first, they will know how to properly test for this disease.   Since your cat’s life may be on the line, don’t take unnecessary risks.

  ]]> http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/feline-distemper/feed/ 0 http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/ringworm-in-cats/ http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/ringworm-in-cats/#comments Thu, 20 Jan 2011 20:47:04 +0000 Susan http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/?p=241 Learn about ringworm in cats and ringworm in kittens, as well as the proper ringworm treatment for cats of all ages. Learn also why ringworm is dangerous. ]]>

  Learn about ringworm in cats and ringworm in kittens, as well as the proper ringworm treatment for cats of all ages. Learn also why ringworm is dangerous.

  Like many other skin disorders, ringworms in cats can be a major nescience for both felines and their human parents.  Unlike many other feline diseases, ringworms can actually be transmuted to humans, making it a major problem if one of your animal family members get this fungus.  While it can be very annoying, your cat can get rid of these ringworms with the proper ringworm treatment.  While there are some products that claim to get rid of ringworms, go to your vet first if you suspecting that your cat may have ringworms.

  Ringworms in Cats: What is it?

  When many of us think of worms, we think of the earthworms that crawl in the ground or the nasty worms that you cat can sometimes be accidentally exposed to.  While the later can appear in your cat’s litter box, you are never going to see ringworm in cats this way, since ringworms are actually not a worm, but a fungus.  Ringworm in cats can actually be transmitted from contact with spores from this fungus, making it very contagious and annoying to get rid of for many families.

  As well, ringworms in cats have some very nasty symptoms that no parent likes to see in their pet.  Some of the most common symptoms for ringworm in cats and ringworm in kittens include:

  • Skin lesions
  • Hair Loss
  • Scaly Skin

  When you see these nasty marks, don’t be surprised by how nasty they look.  As well, do not try treating them on your own, since it will make it more likely you will spread ringworms to other cats in your family or yourself.

  Ringworm Treatment

  Ringworm in cat is first diagnosed by your vet through appearance or a special light known as a Wood lamp.  Once your cat has been diagnosed and had a hair sample taken, your cat will begin your vets suggested ringworm treatment.  In most cases, they will receive one of the following treatments:

  • Tropical Antifungal Cream
  • Oral Anti Fungus Agent
  • Prescription Flea Pills

  In some severe cases, your vet may even start clipping your cats lesions, which will be painful for your cat.  Most vets try avoiding this since this can make the spores spread.  One of the unfortunate side effects of ringworm in cats, however, is that some longhaired cats will need to be shaved to make sure they are healing properly.

  Ringworm in Kittens: What to Do

  For many families, nothing is more frustrating than finding ringworms on your kitten.  Since they are so playful, is likely that these will spread to your children, making it important that you isolate your kitten.  As well, many vets are weary to give strong medicines to kittens, so be prepared for a very long recovery.  To avoid your cat getting ringworms, make sure to keep your cat’s bedding and sleeping areas clean.

  ]]> http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/ringworm-in-cats/feed/ 0 http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/my-cat-is-sneezing/ http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/my-cat-is-sneezing/#comments Thu, 20 Jan 2011 20:13:50 +0000 Susan http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/?p=248 If you wake up one morning and think, "My cat is sneezing; in fact my cat is sneezing a lot!" Look no further! Explore illnesses that can contribute to sneezing]]>

  If you wake up one morning and think, “My cat is sneezing; in fact my cat is sneezing a lot!” Look no further! Explore illnesses that can contribute to sneezing.

  My cat is sneezing, what do I do?  More than likely, you have asked yourself this, especially when you are watching your cat sneeze constantly.  While sneezing is usually not very serious, you may have a problem if you are sitting back wondering ‘why is my cat sneezing so much?’  While there may be a variety of reason why your cat is sneezing, it can be solved really quickly.  In some cases however, the question of my ‘my cat is sneezing’ is very likely going to end in a vet trip.

  My Cat is Sneezing: What is Wrong

  Before you start panicking and asking ‘why my cat is sneezing a lot’ realize that sneezing is normal in most animals.  The problem is if you are realize that your cat is sneezing quite a bit.  Usually when a cat is sneezing a great deal, this is a assign that they are actually sick or having issues with some form of chemicals in your home.  Sometimes, this can be as simple as changing your cat’s food, or changing to all natural cleaners in your home.

  For those who are worried are constantly thinking ‘my cat is sneezing, now what’, realize that the first thing you need to do is figure out why your cat is sneezing.  To do this, you need to know the main reasons why cats sneeze.

  My Cat is Sneezing A Lot: What is Causing This

  There are a variety of reasons why your cat may be sneezing. The main reason is that they may be sick.  If you are sitting back thinking ‘my cat is sneezing a lot, so now what’, it’s time to look for reasons your cat is sneezing.  Some of the most common reasons why your cat may be sneezing can include:

  • The Cat Flu
  • Allergies
  • Chemical Sensitivity

  All of these things can be making your cat sneeze a lot, so make sure to bring your cat to the vet if you are noticing that their eyes are water, nose watering, or that they seem lethargic.  Nothing is worse than a sick cat, so do your cat a favor and schedule a vet appointment.

  Why is My Cat Sneezing so Much: Treatment

  For people who have been wondering ‘why is my cat sneezing so much’, you will be happy to know that there are a variety of ways you can make your cat stop sneezing.  While illness can only be solved with a vet trip, allergies and chemical sensitivity can be fixed easily.  For starters, move to all natural cleaners. This will help not only your cat, but your own breathing.   If your cat is still sneezing after this, it may be allergic to something in their food.  Once you have found out what the allergen is in their food, do not purchase any food with this ingredient.  In a few days to a week, you will notice that your cat will stop sneezing.

  ]]> http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/my-cat-is-sneezing/feed/ 0 http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/cheap-cat-insurance/ http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/cheap-cat-insurance/#comments Thu, 20 Jan 2011 20:07:35 +0000 Susan http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/?p=254 Find the best cheap cat insurance and the best cheap cat health insurance features. We list cheap pet insurance companies with cat health insurance benefits]]>

  Find the best cheap cat insurance and the best cheap cat health insurance features. We list cheap pet insurance companies with cat health insurance benefits.

  Have you ever thought of getting cheap cat insurance for your cat?  We know that pet insurance is becoming important with medical bills rising as our cats get older, but is cat health insurance really all that important?  Contrary to what many people believe, cat health insurance is crucial to making sure that your cat stays in optimal health since it takes many of the medical bills off of your hands, allowing you to get cheap cat insurance without paying any high fees.

  Why Get Cheap Cat Insurance

  With many vet bills going up for our beloved cat as they age, it is important that we find cheap cat insurance.  Since many of our bills are also not going down, it is important that we get cat health insurance that we can afford.  If you go with many of the well known plans, they will have you paying almost as much for your cat as you do your children, leaving you overwhelmed with the overall cost of these bills.  To get cheap cat insurance, you need to bring your search to the internet.

  Today, cheap pet insurance is the norm if you know the right places to look.  Best of all, many veterinarians are happy to take these cheap pet insurance plans since it means that you will be able to better care for your pets and afford the cost of these procedures.

  Cheap Pet Insurance Features

  Many cheap cat insurance plans allows you to  afford not only emergency care for their pets, but annual care that every cat should be receiving.  On most cheap cat insurance plans, you will be able to take advantage of :

  • Test Discounts
  • Drug Discounts
  • Routine Cat Checkups
  • Dental Checkups
  • Vaccinations

  Since all of these are free or discounted with cheap cat insurance, who wouldn’t want to take advantage of these cheap cat insurance features?  While not every plan is the same, pet owners can find exactly what they want if they know the rights places to look for these insurance plans.

  Finding Cat Health Insurance

  If you are seriously about finding cheap cat insurance, you can find a plan for all of your need on the internet.  Many places that sell cheap pet insurance are competing to get your business, allowing you to get cat health insurance without paying a ridiculous amount of monthly or annually fees.  The most well known places that sell cheap cat insurance include:

  • AKC Pet Insurance
  • Money Super Market.com
  • Insurance for Pets

  Always make sure to look at the requirements for each insurance plan and get a quote.  We are for certain you won’t be disappointed by any of the deals you find from these pet insurance companies.

  ]]> http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/cheap-cat-insurance/feed/ 0 http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/pregnancy-in-cats/ http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/pregnancy-in-cats/#comments Thu, 20 Jan 2011 19:56:13 +0000 Susan http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/?p=257 Find out about pregnancy in cats and what the normal pregnancy symptoms in cats are, along with normal pregnancy cat behaviors and information about kittens]]>

  Find out about pregnancy in cats and what the normal pregnancy symptoms in cats are, along with normal pregnancy cat behaviors and information about kittens.

  If you have a female cat, it is important you know about pregnancy in cats. Many people think that their cat having kittens is adorable and a great way to teach their children about life.  In actuality, having kittens is very dangerous for your cat and if at all possible, you should have her spayed.  This will not only prolong her life, but keep her healthier and happier.  If you suspect that your cat is already pregnant, however, it is time to start looking for pregnancy symptoms in cats.

  Pregnancy in Cats: Normal Pregnancy Symptoms in Cats

  There are a variety of reasons why people deal with pregnancy in cats.  While it can be your cat accidentally becoming pregnant, you may end up being the proud owner of an adopted cat who you just found out was pregnant.  If you are unsure if your cat is actually pregnant, you can look for some of these well known pregnancy symptoms in cats:

  • Enlarged Nipples
  • Weight Gain
  • Morning Sickness

  While some people do claim that you can feel kitten in the mother’s abdomen, we suggested that you avoid doing this, since it can possibly harm the mother cat or kill the kitten.   Depending on how far along your pregnant cat may be, you may notice none of these symptoms at first, or all of these pregnancy symptoms in cats.

  Pregnancy Test for Cats

  Unfortunately, pregnancy in cats cannot be discovered through a blood or urine test.  For this reason, you can only depend on your vet’s own judgment.   To your veterinarian, the most common pregnancy test for cats is an X-Ray or abdomen test where they feel for the kittens in your cat’s abdomen.  Since this is can be dangerous for the kitten, never try doing this on your own.  If your cat is at least three weeks pregnant, your veterinarian can tell you very quickly if your cat has kittens or not.

  Pregnancy Cat Behavior and What to Expect

  Pregnancy in cats is in some ways very similar to being pregnancy in humans. Both can have morning sickness and both are likely to be a bit moody.  Some cats may be more affectionate, but from our experience, we have seen cats be more territorial.  When dealing with pregnancy in cats, we recommend giving the Mommy cat (or ‘queen’) her space, allowing her to decide when she wants human attention.

  You can expect your cat to be pregnant for about nine weeks, giving you some time to prepare for the new kittens.  Once the kittens are born, you can expect anywhere from 1 to 8 kittens.   Make sure to give your cat plenty of time with her new kittens, since she will be very protective of her new little ones.  In no time, however, you will be able to be share your cat’s job of being a new mommy.

  ]]> http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/pregnancy-in-cats/feed/ 0 http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/feline-leukemia-symptoms/ http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/feline-leukemia-symptoms/#comments Thu, 20 Jan 2011 19:42:49 +0000 Susan http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/?p=263 Learn about Feline Leukemia Symptoms and why leukemia in cats is so dangerous. Find out about leukemia in cats treatments and more about this dangerous virus.]]>

  Learn about Feline Leukemia symptoms and why leukemia in cats is so dangerous. Find out about leukemia in cats treatments and more about this dangerous virus.

  When a cat owner sees feline leukemia symptoms, they can’t help but feel their heart sink.  Cat owners have for years heard the dangers of leukemia in cats, but very few of us ever think of our cats actually getting this deadly virus.  While you can always get the vaccine for your cats, it’s always dangerous to second guess yourself if your cat has been vaccinated if you have a stray or rescue cat.  If you are watching or caring for a cat that you believe is showing feline leukemia symptoms, it is recommended that you bring your cat to the vet immediately.   Yet, what exactly is leukemia in cats and why is it so deadly?

  Feline Leukemia Symptoms and the Disease

  No one wants to think of their cat having leukemia, but sometimes we have to face reality.  Many owners who don’t know about feline leukemia take unnecessary risks with cats who have never been vaccinated, causing pain and heartache not only for themselves, but their beloved cat.  Feline leukemia is a fatal infectious retrovirus that attacks a cat’s immune system, eventually leading to them becoming fatally sick or getting cancer.

  Unlike many other types of viruses that effect cats, leukemia in cats cannot be spread to humans or other cats.  The most common way that this disease spreads is through the mother’s womb or milk, meaning that most kittens are born with this terrible disease.

  The most common feline leukemia symptoms include:

  • Fever
  • Vomiting
  • Lethargy
  • Swollen Lymph Nodes

  If you believe that your cat has this terrible disease, take them to the vet immediately.  Even though there is no cure, they can at least prolong your cat’s life.

  Leukemia in Cats: Survival Rate

  With the assistance of a vet, 70% of cats are able to survive the virus.  Most cats, however, will have a reduced lifespan, living only one to five years.  Since their immune system is so weak, many cats will eventually die of another illness.   While your vet can help your cat along and make their life easier, the best thing to do for your cat if they do not have feline leukemia symptoms is get vaccinated.  Even cats who have the disease can get vaccinated, but make sure you talk to your vet about this first, since it will depend how far along your cat is in the recovery process.

  Leukemia in Cats:  Testing Your Cat

  Before your cat ever has kittens, it is recommended that they get tested for this disease first.  Some cat may not have the disease, but be a carrier, possible causing leukemia in cats for her new kittens.  While the kittens that have leukemia have a low chance of survival, your vet may be able to prolong their lives.

  ]]> http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/feline-leukemia-symptoms/feed/ 0 http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/feline-practitioners/ http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/feline-practitioners/#comments Thu, 20 Jan 2011 19:34:47 +0000 Susan http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/?p=267 Needing to find Feline Practitioners in your new home city? Learn how to find the best doctors for cats in your community without leaving your home]]>

  Needing to find Feline Practitioners in your new home city? Learn how to find the best doctors for cats in your community without leaving your home.

  When you move to a new area, finding feline practitioners can be a bit difficult, especially if you don’t have many animal loving friends in your new city.  As if moving to a new home and the whole moving process wasn’t enough, now you have to also replace your cat’s vet.  While looking for doctors for cats can be trying, realize that with the internet at your disposal, finding a new veterinarian for your favorite pet isn’t going to be as hard as you may think.

  Feline Practitioners:  Where to Look

  When you are looking for doctors for cats, the first place you need to look is your local yellow pages.  While this may seem old fashion, realize this may be the best way to learn the vets in your area who have been in business for awhile.  Since a paper book is only updated once to twice a year, you are learning fast which feline practitioners have a bit of experience under their belt.  There is nothing wrong with new vets, but experience is key if you are looking for a seasoned doctor for your cat.

  From there, go to the site for your pet insurance company and see which doctors in your area are accepted.  Like our insurance, not every doctor in your area may take your cat’s insurance, so make sure not to waste your time with these veterinarians.  Once you have a list together, you are ready to go to the next step.

  Doctors for Cats: Who is Good or Not

  Nothing is worse than finding out that the feline practitioner you chose is not all that good.  To learn about doctors for cats, it is best to research the vet in the following areas:

  • Catvets.com
  • Google
  • Cat Forums in Your Area

  People on the internet today are very happy to give you their opinion, no matter if it is good or bad.  If some feline practitioners have a bad reputation in your area, this is the place to learn about those issues.  See if your vet has a clean record, where they went to school, and how long they have been practicing.   If people in your area rave about a certain vet, see if you can make an appointment and meet this vet yourself.

  Feline Practitioners and Your Other Pets

  Many individuals who have cats also have other animals, making it a good idea to find feline practitioners who also like to see other animals. Many vets are happy to see dogs, cats, reptiles, and nearly any pet you may have in your home.  Make sure to talk to your vet first before bringing in your animal, however, since each vet has their own specialties.

  ]]> http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/feline-practitioners/feed/ 0 http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/fleas-symptoms/ http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/fleas-symptoms/#comments Thu, 20 Jan 2011 19:13:47 +0000 Susan http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/?p=271 Need to know fleas symptoms for your pet? If you suspect them, it's good to know what fleas on dogs symptoms are, as well as fleas on cats symptoms]]>

  Need to know fleas symptoms for your pet? If you suspect them, it’s good to know what fleas on dogs symptoms are, as well as fleas on cats symptoms.

  Since dogs and cats are likely to get fleas, it is important that we know fleas symptoms as pet owners.  These annoying parasites can be very annoying to our beloved pets, as well as everyone in our household.  Fleas are especially common when it comes to owning dogs and cats, but did you know that fleas have no problem biting humans?   By the time you see a flea on your dog or cat, it is probably too late, meaning that you are going to have to flea bomb your home, as well as go through a lot of trouble to get them out of your home.  So, what are the most comes fleas symptoms that you can look for on your dogs and cats?

  Fleas Symptoms:  What You Need to Know

  When it comes to pets, many of us are paranoid about getting fleas in our homes, leaving us constantly looking for any signs of fleas on our animals.  If you had never had fleas on your animals, you are quite lucky.  Fleas are quite annoying and leave many of us struggling with getting them out of our home.  Most of the time, the only way you can get fleas out of your carpet and furniture is getting a professional exterminator to come in, who will flea bomb your home.

  Since none of us want to have an expensive extermination bill, it is important that we know the most common fleas symptoms.  If your dog or cat has fleas, they are most likely to show the following fleas symptoms:

  • Itching
  • Discomfort
  • Redness
  • Hives
  • Skin Irritation

  One thing is for certain, fleas don’t care where they make their new home, so look for these signs in both dogs and cats.

  Common Fleas on Dogs Symptoms

  Of course, dogs and cats are a little different when it comes to fleas.  While the symptoms may be the same, the most common fleas on dog symptoms that you will note is hair loss and skin irritation.  Dogs naturally have very sensitive skin, so it’s very easy for fleas to do a lot of damage fast.  As well, many larger dogs can carry thousands of fleas, causing issues not only for your dog, but you.

  Commons Fleas on Cats Symptoms

  While we all love our cats, they are usually the worst to tell us when there is a problem.  Cats that are having fleas symptoms, are likely to clean themselves more, as well show the symptoms that were said above.  In some cats, they may even be a bit more moody.

  No matter if you have a dog or cat, make sure to watch for fleas symptoms closely.  No one wants to have fleas, especially your dog or cat.

  ]]> http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/fleas-symptoms/feed/ 0 http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/feline-aids-symptoms/ http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/feline-aids-symptoms/#comments Thu, 20 Jan 2011 18:20:15 +0000 Susan http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/?p=274 Learn about Feline Aids Symptoms and why feline aids is so serious. Find out about feline HIV symptoms and the normal feline aids test vets use. ]]>

  Learn about Feline Aids symptoms and why feline aids is so serious. Find out about feline HIV symptoms and the normal feline aids test vets use.

  Seeing a cat with feline aids symptoms can be very heartbreaking for many animal rescue workers.  Little can be done to save cats that have feline HIV symptoms, but animal lovers can do some things to make their lives easier.  What makes feline aids so deadly, however, is the fact that it is highly contagious for cats, being spread through biting or a cat’s saliva.  Since most cats that show feline aids symptoms are feral cats, it can spread very quickly and be a problem for many rescue workers who are trying to find good homes for these cats.

  Feline Aids Symptoms: What to Expect

  Due to the fact that feline aids symptoms are deadly, it is recommended that pet owners and rescue workers take the symptoms of this disease very seriously.  Through just sharing a food dish or a cat fight, feline aids can quickly spread in a shelter, leading to cats having shortened lives due to the disease or euthanasia in many kill shelters.  Since this disease can be life threatening either way to a stray, it is important that animal lovers know the common feline aids symptoms:

  • Weakness
  • Poor Appetite
  • Seizures
  • Anemia
  • Chronic Diarrhea
  • Constant Fever

  If cats in your shelter or home are showing these signs, it is recommended that they see a veterinary professional to be tested.

  Feline HIV Symptoms: Who is Prone

  The cats that are most likely to show feline aids symptoms are feral cats or cats that live outdoors.  Many cats that live indoors will never have the chance of getting feline aids since they are vaccinated against this disease as kittens, as well as being less likely to ever be exposed to this deadly disease.  Unlike human HIV, this disease is not spread through sexual transmission, but saliva, meaning that even same gender cats that have been in a fight can get this disease.

  As well, kittens are also prone to getting HIV for cats.  Kitten that are very young are likely to show feline HIV symptoms if they are living outside or their mother had the disease.  Unfortunately, these kittens have little chance at survival and will likely die before their first year of life.

  Feline AIDs Tests

  If you know a cat that is showing feline aids symptoms, it is time to bring them for a feline aids test.  Just like human HIV, a feline aids test will include an HIV blood test and a physical exam.  Your vet will be able to tell you quickly if your cat has this virus.  While your cat will never be cured if they show feline aids symptoms, you can at least make your cat’s life a little easier with a vet’s assistance.

  ]]> http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/feline-aids-symptoms/feed/ 0 http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/fip-in-cats/ http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/fip-in-cats/#comments Thu, 20 Jan 2011 17:56:03 +0000 Susan http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/?p=279 Find out about FIP in Cats and the normal FIP treatment for cats. Find out about the normal FIP in Cats symptoms, dry FIP in Cats, and what FIP means for cats.]]>

  Find out about FIP in Cats and the normal FIP treatment for cats. Find out about the normal FIP in Cats symptoms, dry FIP in Cats, and what FIP means for cats.

  Many cat owners know very little about FIP in cats, a deadly disease that affects a number of outdoors cats.  While many of our cats dream of running around outside and chasing birds, other feral cats that live outdoors in our own backyard risk getting this deadly virus daily.   To play it safe, it is recommended that you never let your cat go outdoors to keep them safe, but if your cat does find him or herself outdoors, it is important that you know FIP in cats symptoms so that you know what to do in case your cat gets this deadly disease.

  FIP in Cats: What is It

  In short, FIP in cats is the cat version of AID or HIV.  This disease spread through the saliva of other cats, making it spread like wildfire among feral cats who must fight and protect their territory to survive.  When indoor cats accidentally find themselves outside, it is not too uncommon for them to get in fights with other cats, leading to them getting this incurable disease.

  While FIP in cats is incurable, a veterinarian can prolong a cat’s life if fip in cats symptoms are caught early enough, especially if your cat has dry FIP in cats.

  FIP in Cats Symptoms

  No matter if it’s your own cat or feral cats in your yard, it is important to notice any FIP in cats symptoms that may be displayed by cats you know.   If a feral cat is showing symptoms of this disease, it increases the chance of any of your family’s cats possibly being exposed to this dangerous disease.  If you see any cats in your neighborhood showing FIP in cats symptoms, call the animal control group within your community and they will humanely catch these felines.  Through proper testing, they can see if the cats have this disease, as well as possibly find them a home if they are proven to be healthy.

  FIP Treatment for Cats

  Since FIP in cats is incurable, many people assume that the only options cats have is death. In actuality, cats who have FIPS have a number of different treatment options that can prolong their life.  The most well known treatment is actually a variety of antibiotics that can help boost their immune system.  Other than this, however, there are only a few things you can do to better help prolong your cats life.  Most veterinarians will recommend that you:

  • Keep Your Cat Indoors
  • Keep Cat Secluded From Other Family Cats
  • Keep Your Cat Vaccinated
  • Treat All Infections

  FIP in cats is deadly, so take any possible outbreak seriously in your area and get your cat tested.   In the end, it will be worth it for you and your cat.

  ]]> http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/fip-in-cats/feed/ 0 http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/cat-diabetes-symptoms/ http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/cat-diabetes-symptoms/#comments Thu, 20 Jan 2011 17:16:12 +0000 Susan http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/?p=283 Afraid your feline friend might have diabetes? Learn more about cat diabetes symptoms here. Learn more about cat diabetes causes and using a cat diabetes diet]]>

  Afraid your feline friend might have diabetes? Learn more about cat diabetes symptoms here. Learn more about cat diabetes causes and using a cat diabetes diet.

  Since cats can have diabetes, it is important that you know about cat diabetes symptoms.  Like in humans, diabetes is a silent killer in cats.  Many people do not even consider the fact that their cat could have diabetes, leading to them becoming quite sick before it is discovered by a vet that they are sick.  To make sure you can keep your cat as healthy as possible, it is your job as their human to learn about cat diabetes symptoms and what needs to be done if your cat has cat diabetes.

  Cat Diabetes Symptoms: Should I be Concerned

  Many pet owners know nothing about cat diabetes, including cat diabetes causes.  When people think of diabetes, they think of the deadly diseases that affects millions of people all over the world each year.  In cats, one in every four hundred is diagnosed with cat diabetes, making it important that you understand the cat diabetes symptoms that go along with diabetes.

  When learning about cat diabetes, it is important to know cat diabetes causes, which are very similar to how diabetes is caused in humans.  Like humans, they are unable to produce their own insulin, leading to them having blood sugar that is either too high, or two low.   Usually, cats show some symptoms of diabetes before it becomes very serious.  The most common cat diabetes symptoms are:

  • Frequent Urination
  • Odd Eating Habits
  • Dehydration
  • Lethargy

  Cat Diabetes Test

  Similar to humans, there are cat diabetes tests if you believe your cat is showing cat diabetes symptoms.  The most common tests that are used by most veterinarians are a urine glucose test and a blood test.  To determine if your cat really does have diabetes, they are given both of these tests multiple times on different days to see if they see the same results.   Once your cat has been diagnosed, however, your cat will move to the next step of starting to treat your cat’s diabetes.

  Most of the time, your cat will be given oral drugs for diabetes, as well as insulin shots.  These shots need to be given as prescribed by your doctor to keep your cat happy and healthy.

  Cat Diabetes Diet: Changes in Your Cat’s Diet

  Once your cat has been diagnosed with cat diabetes, you will begin slowly changing their life to help manage the diabetes. One of the first changes will be a cat diabetes diet, which will lower your cat’s weight and help your cat deal with the sugar in foods.  While this special diet is more expensive, is a requirement when it comes to cat diabetes.

  To make sure to keep your cat healthy, watch for cat diabetes symptoms.  For more information on cat diabetes, feel free to talk to your veterinarian or one of his staff about this disease.

  ]]> http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/cat-diabetes-symptoms/feed/ 0 http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/cat-behaviors-and-what-they-mean/ http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/cat-behaviors-and-what-they-mean/#comments Thu, 20 Jan 2011 16:54:04 +0000 Susan http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/?p=285 Sometimes it can be frustrating trying to figure out cat behavior problems and what they mean. Fix cat behavior problems by researching your pet's behaviors]]>

  Sometimes it can be frustrating trying to figure out cat behavior problems and what they mean. Fix cat behavior problems by researching your pet’s behaviors.

  Have you ever wondered about cat behaviors and what they mean?  We all love watching our cats, but sometimes they have the oddest behavior that we just don’t understand.  For this reason, many people have been trying to study cat behavior and what they mean, hoping to uncover the big issue of why cat behavior problems occur in the first place.  While we may love to think of our feline friends as a great mystery, most of their cat behavior problems make sense when humans learn to pay attention to their body language and behaviors.

  Cat Behaviors and What They Mean To Us

  When many of us sit down to watch TV, we almost expect our cat to jump on our lap and take a nap.  During the whole process, we end up with some happy purring, leaving us feeling as if there could not be a problem in the world with our cat.  Like human’s, however, cats are sensitive to their environments and they have no problem telling you when something is not going how they expect.  No matter how much you may believe you are the boss of your own home, your cat thinks otherwise.

  To determine what cat behaviors and what they mean, the first thing you need to do is get rid of any misconceptions you had about cats.  They are not evil creatures that are desire your attention only when its meal time.  All cats are sensitive creatures that want to be happy and cherished by their humans.  While some may be independent, they all need a bit of TLC from their human.   When things go wrong, it is usually the human’s fault for not paying attention, not their own.

  The most common misunderstood cat behaviors include:

  • Kneading
  • Claw Sharpening
  • Vocalization
  • Hissing

  Cat Behavior Problems: What Do they Mean

  Understanding cat behaviors and what they mean all comes down to understanding cats.  They do not sit and think about many of their actions, but are depending on instinct.  When your cat is trying to claw on the floor or your favorite piece of furniture, they are doing one of three things:

  • Marking Their Territory
  • Stretching
  • Cleaning their Claws

  Cats don’t want to be destructive but they want others to know this is their own home.  Like all other behaviors, it is the human’s job to understand what they mean.  While most of these cat behavior problems can easily be fixed, some may take a bit more effort.

  Cat Behavior Problems: Calling the Behaviorist

  Of course, some cat behavior problems can’t be easily fixed.  When you have exhausted everything you know, it is time to call a cat behaviorist. These experts in cat training are happy to assist you when it comes to figuring out problematic cat behavior.

  With time and efforts, however, you can figure out cat behaviors and what they mean.  Your cat is a very good teacher, so learn from them!

  ]]> http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/cat-behaviors-and-what-they-mean/feed/ 1 http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/cat-behaviorist/ http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/cat-behaviorist/#comments Thu, 20 Jan 2011 16:38:37 +0000 Susan http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/?p=291 Is your pet cat misbehaving? Perhaps it's time for a cat behaviorist to intervene! Cat behavior problems can be a nuisance, learn more about how to fix them]]>

  Is your pet cat misbehaving? Perhaps it’s time for a cat behaviorist to intervene! Cat behavior problems can be a nuisance, learn more about how to fix them.

  If you are like many cat owners, you are probably wondering what is a cat behaviorist?  In the news and many major magazines, people have been talking about various cat behaviorists and what they have done to solve cat behavior problems in their own home.   While many cat behaviorist are actually just cat experts, some are actually true experts when it comes to training cats, allowing you to learn from their experiences and create the best environment for your cat.

  Job of A Cat Behaviorist

  In many cases, cat behaviorists are people who have studied the life, habits, and behaviors of cats.   Some individuals who become a cat behaviorist first started out as scientists, veterinarians, and others just people who have spent a great deal studying biology.  Since they have a strong understanding about cats, they are able to deal with many cat behavior problems that are taking places in homes all over the world.

  Looking at most cat behaviorist websites, you will learn quickly that they consider themselves to be experts when it comes to:

  • Understanding Cat Behavior
  • Solving Unwanted Cat Behavior
  • Using Behavior Modification to Change Behavior

  While not every cat behaviorist is the same, they are the true experts when your cat training seems to be a bit off or just not working properly.

  Solving Cat Behavior Problems

  When many of us call a cat behaviorist, our first concern is solving cat behavior problems.  We are usually not to interesting in learning why our cat is the acting the way they are, but we want to behavior to stop.  Many unhappy cats move to destructive behavior when they are not happy, making it a very uncomfortable situation for both the cat and the human.  In many cases, calling a cat behaviorist is the last straw before many people find a new home for their cat.

  To solve unwanted behavior, a cat behaviorist first finding what is causing cat behavior problems.  By observing your cat in its natural environment, they are able to understand what is making your cat upset, as well as try to figure out what can be done to solve these issues.  By the end of their visit, the cat behaviorist give a behavior modification plan to the pet owners, telling them how to solve these unwanted behaviors and make their cat happier.

  Do Cat Behaviorist Work?

  While hiring a cat behaviorist is not cheap, they are very effective. Since they understand the behavior of your cat, they are able to help you retrain your cat, similar to a dog trainer.  Like many other experts, however, not all cat behaviorists are the same, so make sure to do some research before you hire a cat behaviorist in your area.

  ]]> http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/cat-behaviorist/feed/ 0 http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/cat-illnesses-and-symptoms/ http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/cat-illnesses-and-symptoms/#comments Thu, 20 Jan 2011 16:22:28 +0000 Susan http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/?p=294 Feline friend sick? Check out these cat illnesses & symptoms. Cat flu symptoms & cat illness signs are important to know before taking your pet to the vet]]>

  Feline friend sick? Check out these cat illnesses & symptoms. Cat flu symptoms & cat illness signs are important to know before taking your pet to the vet.

  With all the different cat illnesses and symptoms that owners are expected to learn, it is not too surprising that most owners don’t pick up on the fact that their cat is sick.  What most people don’t tell you is that most cats are terrible at showing you they are sick, at least until they are seriously sick.  For this reason, it is important that we constantly be on the lookout for cat illness signs.  While it may be frustrating and almost impossible to tell when our cats are sick, it will help us when we have our next trip at the vet.

  Overwhelmed with Cat Illnesses and Symptoms

  If you have ever looked at website that talks about cat illnesses and symptoms, you have probably noticed that it can easily become intimidating.  Many of the symptoms for extremely sick cats can seem like our cat at home.  For example, what exactly is lethargy?  Aren’t all cat’s lazy?  What most of these sites fail to tell you is that before you can tell if your cat is sick, you need to know what to expect in a healthy cat.

  For people who are having a cat for the first time, look up what behavior is normal for your cat and how a healthy cat should look.  This will help you determine if your cat is really sick.  What we personally recommend is taking picture of your cat healthy so that you can compare this to your cat when you believe they are sick.

  Kitten Illness Symptoms: Sick or Healthy

  When many of us think of a sick kitten, we think of a kitten that is lethargic, sneezing, coughing, and vomiting.  Yet, what if your kitten is not showing any of these cat illness symptoms?  The best way to see kitten illness symptoms is actually understanding what is not a sick cat.  When looking for cat illnesses and symptoms, you need to see what is out of the normal.  A healthy kitten should be:

  • Having a Glossy Coat
  • White Teeth
  • Cool and Damp Nose
  • Clean Eyes
  • Clean Ears

  Anything else could be the sign of a serious illness in your kitten.  To learn more about cat illnesses and symptoms, you may want to consider looking at a cat illness checker, since every disease has different symptoms.

  Cat Flu Symptoms

  Like humans, the most common illness your cat will have is cat flu.  The most likely cat flu symptoms that your cat will have are:

  • Depression
  • Ulcers
  • Runny Nose and Eyes

  Like many other cat illnesses and symptoms, it is always advised that you visit your vet if your cat has cat flu.  Even though your cat will get over most cat illness signs on their own, they can usually get over it faster with the assistance of a vet.

  ]]> http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/cat-illnesses-and-symptoms/feed/ 0 http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/cat-worming-tablets/ http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/cat-worming-tablets/#comments Thu, 20 Jan 2011 16:00:33 +0000 Susan http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/?p=299 If you are looking for cat worming tablets for your feline friend, there are many cat worming treatments available. Check out these cat worm pills & research]]>

  If you are looking for cat worming tablets for your feline friend, there are many cat worming treatments available. Check out these cat worm pills & research.

  If your cat has worms, they are likely to need cat worming tablets.   From the moment many of us see worms on our carpet or in our cat’s litter box, our first thought is to immediately run to the vet.  Depending on the worms that your cat has, you may be given a variety of different cat worming treatments, all of which your cat is not going to like.  While the treatments are very effective, realize that you are going to have a fun time getting rid of these worms, so make sure to get worming medicine that you know will work the first time around.

  Cat Worming Tables: What to Expect

  One of the most common cat worming treatments is to give your cat worming tablets.  These small tablets may not look like much, but they are the only answer to your cat’s worm issues.  Many people prefer not going to see their veterinarian and getting over the counter cat worming tablets.  While these may be cheaper, realize that they will take twice as long to work, and will likely cost you more money in the long.  Worst case, the longer your cat has worms, the more likely they are to spread them to your own children.  Believe us, humans having worms is not pretty and much more expensive to get rid of, so make sure to do it right the first time.

  Cat Worming Treatments

  When it comes to cat worming tables, your vet is likely to give you one of the following medicines:

  • Drontal
  • Cestex
  • Inteceptor

  Usually, these treatments can come in a variety of forms, but most of the time, they are cat worm pills. If you have never given a cat a pill before, you are most likely in for a treat.  Many people hate giving their cats these pills and prefer going with liquid medicine, but as before, this will usually not be as effective as what you will get from your veterinarian.

  If you have a kitten, they will be given worming tablets for kittens.  Never give your kitten anything other than these worming tablets for kittens, since they are made special for kittens.

  Cat Worm Pills

  The worst part of cat worming tablets is figuring out how you are going to give these pills to your cat.  Many people have their own way of giving their cat these pills, but our preferred way is hiding the pill in a treat.  The most well know pill hiding treats is of course Greenies.  These healthy treats are loved by cats and are also great for their dental health.  There are other ways to give your cat these pills, but this will be a lot more work for you and will be uncomfortable for your cat.   If you have any problems giving these pills to your cat, make sure to talk to your veterinarian.

  ]]> http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/cat-worming-tablets/feed/ 0 http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/food-allergies-in-dogs/ http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/food-allergies-in-dogs/#comments Wed, 19 Jan 2011 23:34:16 +0000 Susan http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/?p=55 Do you need to learn more about food allergies in dogs or food intolerance in dogs? Wheat allergies in dogs could also be causing your canine problems. ]]>

  Do you need to learn more about food allergies in dogs or food intolerance in dogs? Wheat allergies in dogs could also be causing your canine problems.

  Today, veterinarians are finding more food allergies in dogs.   Like humans, they seem to be developing food intolerances that are growing rapidly, leaving many pet owners in shock when they find out that their dog has a food allergy.  While food allergies in dogs may not be something that you can avoid, there are a few things you can look out for if you believe that your favorite pooch may have a food allergy.

  Why Are Food Allergies in Dogs?

  Food allergies in dogs is becoming one of the top cases that veterinarians are asked to treat each year, with the number rising each year.  With the current numbers, food allergies in dogs are 10% of all the allergies that are seen in dogs.  In many cases, food allergies in dogs can also have the signs of other skin allergies since many dogs have itchy, dry skin after an allergic reaction.

  While many people may think that some breeds are more likely to have food allergies, experts who study food allergies in dogs have determined that there is no strong link between food allergies and specific dog breeds.  Prize winning dogs and mutts are just as likely to have food allergies, with these allergies appearing anytime between five months in age to 12 years.  Most of the time, however, food allergies in dogs first make their appearance when a dog is between the ages of 2 and 6.

  The most common food allergies in dogs can include:

  • Wheat Allergies in Dogs
  • Gluten Allergies in Dogs
  • Corn Allergies in Dogs
  • Meat Allergies in Dogs
  • Soy Allergies in Dogs

  Food Intolerance in Dogs

  One of the big mistakes many pet owners have when it comes to allergies is not knowing the difference between food allergies in dogs and a food intolerance in dogs.  The big difference is the way your dog reacts to the said food.  With a food intolerance, your dog may have diarrhea or vomiting, but this is not an allergic reason.  Your dog has a food allergy, however, if they also begin itching and having skin problems.

  Food Allergies in Cats

  If you think that food allergies in dogs are a reason to not get a dog, guess again.  Cats also suffer from food allergies, like many other types of animals.  Like dogs, food allergies in cats are also on the rise.  More cats are finding themselves sneezing and itching due to some ingredient in their food.  To the surprise of many researchers, cats are also suffering many of the same allergies as dogs, making researchers wonder what could possibly making our favorite pets suffer from these unknown allergies.

  While your food allergies in dogs and cats may be frustrating, the only way they can be truly diagnosed is by setting an appointment with your veterinarian.  If they determine that your pet has an allergy, they will set you on the right course of picking the proper food and diet for your favorite companion.

  ]]> http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/food-allergies-in-dogs/feed/ 0 http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/gluten-free-dog/ http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/gluten-free-dog/#comments Wed, 19 Jan 2011 23:29:00 +0000 Susan http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/?p=53 If your dog is sensitive & needs gluten free dog food, we've found the best gluten free dog food brands for his needs. Read more about this special product]]>

  If your dog is sensitive & needs gluten-free dog food, we’ve found the best gluten-free dog food brands for his needs. Read more about this special product

  Like people, dogs can have gluten allergies that require a diet of gluten-free dog food.  Similar to humans, these dogs need a well balanced, healthy diet that includes fruits, vegetables, and meats, but how do you find gluten-free dog food brands that meet our dog’s dietary requirements?   While this may seem difficult, don’t worry, there are quite a few healthy brands out there that are specially designed to give your dog a balanced, gluten-free diet.

  Gluten-Free Dog Food: What You Need to Know

  
  
  If you personally do not have an allergy to gluten, you were probably overwhelmed when your vet told you about your dog’s allergies.  As pet owners, we rarely think about purchasing gluten-free dog food, or even gluten-free cat food for that matter.   Just like humans, animals can have dangerous food allergies, with gluten being one of the most common of these allergies.  With all the dog food brands on the market, however, how exactly do we know which foods are gluten free dog food brands?

  Picking Gluten-Free Dog Food Brands

  There are a few things you need to keep in mind when looking for gluten-free dog food.  The most important is that you need to avoid carbohydrates in your dog’s food, meaning very little grains in your dog’s diet.  By looking at the ingredients section of most dog food, you need to find food that avoids:

  • Wheat
  • Rye
  • Barley
  • Oats (doesn’t naturally have gluten, but is often contaminated with wheat)

  As you will learn very quickly, most dog food contains these ingredients, so finding true gluten-free dog food can be a bit tricky.   In many cases, you can find gluten free dog food brands at many pets stores, including Petsmart, Petco, and your locally owned pet store.  If they do not carry this food, always ask an associate.  They can sometimes special order this food for you, or show you how you can order this food from their website at a discounted price.

  Things to Remember about Gluten-Free Dog Food Brands

  One of the hardest things for owners who are changing their dogs diet is finding a food that their dog not only likes, but is healthy.   Our dogs are going to love their old food, not understanding that this is what makes them sick.  Try to very gently move them to their new gluten-free dog food, giving them treats when they eat.  With most dogs, you will not have a problem, but some breeds will resist.  If your breed also has special dietary requirements along with being gluten free, you may want to take this up with your veterinarian, since they may need vitamin supplements.

  While gluten-free dog food is pricier, it is no different than getting anything a member of your family needs. Everyone wants to see their family grow and prosper, especially all of your family pets.

  ]]> http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/gluten-free-dog/feed/ 1 http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/best-dog-food-brands/ http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/best-dog-food-brands/#comments Wed, 19 Jan 2011 23:18:20 +0000 Susan http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/?p=60 If you are looking for the best dog food brands, look no further! We have dog food reviews, including the healthiest dog food brands, right here!]]>

  If you are looking for the best dog food brands, look no further! We have dog food reviews, including the healthiest dog food brands, right here!

  Like many dog owners, you are constantly researching the best dog food brands and trying to figure out what is best for your dog.  With all the different foods on the market today and nearly everyone having their own dog food reviews, it is not too shocking that finding an honest opinion is difficult.  Going by the opinion of actual consumer, we have done our own dog food reviews of the best and worst dog food brands sold today.

  The Very Best Dog Food Brands

  To determine which were the best dog food brands on the market we went by strict criteria to help judge each of the food individually.  All of the foods that were chosen were based on the ingredients that are in the food, its natural qualities, its nutritional value, and its availability.  All of our sample came from real consumers just like you, who have tried each of these foods with their own dogs and found them to either be amazing, or lacking.

  Along with being the best dog food brands, each food also had to prove itself to be the healthiest dog food brands.  We may want to judge a food completely by our dogs own personal tastes, but as we know from our own kids, sometimes the best tasting foods aren’t the healthiest.  To see which foods we deemed to be the very best, feel free to look below.

  Dog Food Reviews

  Choosing the best brands was very difficult, but we believe that you will be happy feeding any of these great foods to your beloved family member.  Not only should these foods taste great for your dog, but should also be the healthiest dog food brands.

  We found the best foods to be…

  • Hills Science Diet
  • Nutro Natural Choice
  • Wellness Dog Food
  • Natural Balance

  The above foods are not in any particular order, since we did not pair up these foods to complete with one another.   Most of these foods can be purchased at Petsmart or any of your local pet stores.

  Worst Dog Food Brands

  As much as we hate to say it, some foods did not make it to the best dog food brands list.  While some may have been runners up, others consumers absolutely loved to hate.  While these foods may be well known, they are also filled with corn and other fillers that are not healthy for our beloved companions.

  The worst dog food brands are..

  • Purina One
  • Beneful
  • Alpo
  • Kibbles N Bits

  If you have the choice, it is probably best to avoid these dog foods.  While everyone may have their own opinion, always remember that cheap is not always better for your favorite dog.

  ]]> http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/best-dog-food-brands/feed/ 0 http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/wellness-dog-food-coupons/ http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/wellness-dog-food-coupons/#comments Wed, 19 Jan 2011 23:07:11 +0000 Susan http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/?p=62 Looking for Wellness dog food coupons or Wellness dog food reviews? You've come to the right place. We discuss Wellness dog food brand in detail!]]>

  Looking for Wellness dog food coupons or Wellness dog food reviews? You’ve come to the right place. We discuss Wellness dog food brand in detail!

  All of us want to buy health dog food while still on a budget, making Wellness Dog food coupons crucial if we want to still afford our favorite dog food on a budget.  Being one of the healthiest holistic foods on the market, it is not too surprising that many studies have considered Wellness dog food to be truly one of the best dog food on the market.   Finding wellness pet food coupons can be a bit tricky, however, if you don’t know where to look for this high quality dog food.

  Places with Wellness Dog Food Coupons

  No matter if you have a dog or cat; you probably are interesting in finding wellness pet food coupons.  While most sites focus on Wellness dog food coupons, most of these coupons can be used on any type of food.   Some of the most well known sites that have Welness dog food coupons are:

  • Maholo
  • Old Mother Hubbard Coupon Codes
  • Petsmart

  While these sites may not always have wellness dog food coupons, they can be found there at various times during the year.  In many cases, these coupons can be printed out at home using your home computer and printer.   If you use these Wellness dog food coupons along with various sales taking place at pet stores like Petsmart, you can expect to save hundreds of dollars a year on your dog’s favorite healthy food.

  Wellness Dog Food Reviews

  If you have never heard of Wellness dog food however, you are probably here since you have heard that this healthy dog food is constantly running specials and coupons.  While they do always have great specials, most Wellness dog food reviews will agree that it is in the list of top ten natural foods that you can buy for not only your dog, but cat.  This balanced food is filled with only the best ingredients, allowing your dog or cat to have a balance diet that was specially made just for them.  As well, Wellness dog food has been the pioneer in holistic dog food for decades, making it one of the most popular food on the market.  It is not too surprising that most pet owners are trying hard to find Wellness Dog food coupons.

  Wellness Dog Food Ingredients: The Best For Your Dog

  Unlike other foods on the market, the Wellness dog food ingredients used to make this well known food are made from only the most natural ingredients, coming directly from natural farmers.  Since each food is made using real meat, fruits, and vegetables, you know it is balanced to be just right for your canine or feline friend.   Once you have tried this food with Wellness Dog Food coupons, you will see for yourself why it is one of the best foods that you can buy.

  ]]> http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/wellness-dog-food-coupons/feed/ 0 http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/best-dog-food-for-puppies/ http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/best-dog-food-for-puppies/#comments Wed, 19 Jan 2011 23:00:02 +0000 Susan http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/?p=65 Looking for the best dog food for puppies? Homemade dog food for puppies is a good choice, but what is the best puppy food on the market? Find out here!]]>

  Looking for the best dog food for puppies? Homemade dog food for puppies is a good choice, but what is the best puppy food on the market? Find out here!

  After getting a new puppy, it is not too surprising that you want to find the best dog food for puppies on the market.  Nearly every brand claims that they have the best puppy food on the market, but which is actually the best dog food brand for puppies?  To make matters even more confusing, most sites seem to put a great deal of focus on their line of dog food, mentioning little about their line of puppy food.  Don’t give up, hope, however, since we are going to show you how to find the best dog food for puppies on your own, as well as recommend some of our own favorite puppy food.

  How to Choose the Best Dog Food for Puppies

  Nearly every family in the United States has grown up with a puppy at some point in their life, but we normally remember our family getting a cheap brand of puppy chow, believing it was sufficient because it was a name brand.  While your family may have meant well, brands and nutrition for dogs has changed quite a bit.  These name brand foods fill puppy chows with gluten, corn, animal byproducts, and other disgusting things that we could never imagine feeding to our puppies.

  A good puppy chow will never contain any of these foods. If you look at the ingredients and see corn in the food, you should put the bag down immediately. It is unhealthy for your puppy and you run the risk of it not getting the proper nutrition it needs.  To find the best food, look for a natural puppy chow that is made specifically for:

  • The breed or size of your puppy
  • Contain real meat, fruit, and vegetables
  • Balanced Nutrients

  While this may seem overwhelming at first, it is important to finding the best dog food for puppies on the market.  Once you have this figured out, finding the best puppy food is rather easy.

  Best Dog Food for Puppies Brands

  Finding the best dog food brand for puppies can be difficult, especially when this is your first puppy.  From our own personal experience, we believe that any of these foods can be considered the best dog food for puppies.

  • Wellness Food Puppy Chow
  • Orijen
  • Timberwolf
  • Blue Buffalo

  Almost all of these foods can be found at your local pet store, but remember that some of these foods may not be appropriate for all budgets.

  Homemade Dog Food for Puppies

  While there are many great dog food brands on the market, the truly best dog food for puppies is the homemade kind.  Making homemade dog food for puppies is really easy, as long as you have some patience and a good recipe.  Below, we have some of our favorite homemade foods that we consider the best dog food for puppies.

  • Homemade Dog Food Recipes
  • Free Dog Food Recipes
  • Dogtime.com Dog Food Recipes

  Remember when making this food that you need to use the best quality ingredients. Your dog is now a member of your family, so feed him like you would your children.

  ]]> http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/best-dog-food-for-puppies/feed/ 0 http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/dog-illness-symptom-checker/ http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/dog-illness-symptom-checker/#comments Wed, 19 Jan 2011 22:51:17 +0000 Susan http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/?p=67 Need a dog illness symptom checker to make a dog illness diagnoses? Check out some of these signs & symptoms to get your dog disease free!]]>

  Need a dog illness symptom checker to make a dog illness diagnoses? Check out some of these signs & symptoms to get your dog disease free!

  Being a dog owner, it is always best to have a dog illness symptom checker bookmarked on your computer.  Just like people, pets can easily get sick, making it ideal to have a pet symptom checker to make sure you know how to treat your dog or make an appointment with your veterinarian.  Even though it may seem like a time right now, you will thank yourself for having a dog illness symptom checker   once your dog is truly ill.

  Why Use A Dog Illness Symptom Checker

  
  
  While all of us may like to think we are experts when it comes to our dog’s health, sometimes we are left baffled when our dog shows symptoms we have never seen.  In many cases, this happens after our dog has an unknown food or becomes overly stressed. For these situations, it is always best to have a dog illness symptom checker to help us know if our dog’s symptoms are serious enough to warrant a vet trip.

  Most dog illness symptom checker websites will give you a variety of helpful information, including:

  • Dog symptoms and diagnosis
  • Common Dog Illnesses
  • Common Household Cures
  • Medicines

  Even though not every dog illness checker should be trusted, there are quite a few that have been trusted by breeders and veterinarians for quite some time.

  The Best Pet Symptom Checker

  When we are looking for a pet illness diagnoses, we want to only deal with sites we can trust.  Just like our children, nothing is worse than our dog being sick, or worse, in pain due to their illness. In many cases, some of the best dog illness symptom checkers are owned by many human wellness sites, allowing us to get a pet diagnosis that we can trust.

  Some of the very best dog illness diagnoses sites include:

  • Web-DVCM.net
  • Dog Symptom Cure.com
  • PetMD.com

  All three of these sites are considered the most trusted dog illness symptom checkers on the internet.  If possible, you should have all three of them bookmarked on your computer, to allow you to better compare notes on your dog’s illness.

  Using a Dog Illness Symptom and Diagnosis Checker

  As always, remember that a dog symptom checker is not a replacement for your veterinarian.  They are the only true experts on your dog’s condition, so only use this information as rough guidelines. In many cases, these checker can you determine if your dog truly is sick, or if there is something you can do at home, especially if you cannot get into the vet immediately.

  If you are finding that your dog needs serious medical attention, make sure to call your veterinarian immediately, even if it is after office hours.  Most animal hospitals have backup vets, so someone will be able to help your dog immediately.

  ]]> http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/dog-illness-symptom-checker/feed/ 0 http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/dog-daycares/ http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/dog-daycares/#comments Wed, 19 Jan 2011 22:43:47 +0000 Susan http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/?p=70 Finding the right dog daycares is important. If you are on budget, dog daycare prices & dog daycare rates are crucial. Learn more about doggie daycares here]]>

  Finding the right dog daycares is important. If you are on budget, dog daycare prices & dog daycare rates are crucial. Learn more about doggie daycares here.

  With how busy most pet owners are during the day, it is not too surprising that dog daycares are becoming more popular.  In the past, many of us had to leave our dogs alone, where they would either be in their crate for the day or worse, sitting in a gated yard alone.    With all the doggie daycares available today, however, it is not too surprising that more of us are considering sending our dogs to daycare.  With all the difference places available today, however, how exactly do we determine which dog daycare is the best for our favorite canine companion?

  Picking Dog Daycares

  Today, nearly everyone is opening their own dog daycare.   With all the different advertisements we see on TV and in our mailbox, it is not too surprising that we are unsure which doggie daycare is appropriate for our dog.  While finding a dog daycare isn’t easy, always remember that these daycare should follow some of the same standards as your child’s daycare.

  When looking at a dog daycare, it should be:

  • Clean
  • Have a Trained Staff
  • Run by someone with Animal Experience
  • Require Vaccination for All of Its Dogs
  • Be Flea Free
  • Provides Playtime and Stimulation for your Dog

  Since all of us have different schedules, you may also want to consider going with a dog daycare that fits your own schedule.  Like children’s daycares, many have schedules that go from 9 – 5, something is inconvenient for parents who are on odd schedules.   Make sure you talk to your daycare about their regular hours.

  Dog Daycare Rates

  Along with your dog daycare providing a safe, fun place for your dog to socialize during the day, it should also be reasonably priced for your budget.   Most dog daycare prices should range from $8 to $40 a day, depending on what activities are provided at the daycare.  As well, dog daycare rates will fluctuate depending on the breed of your dog and if your dog needs special attention during the day.   Most of the time, commercial dog daycare prices will be cheaper, but realize that your dog will not be receiving as much individual attention as they will receive at a private home.

  Private vs Commercial Doggie Daycares

  When determining if your dog should go to a commercial or private dog daycare, it is usually best to consider the personality of your dog.  At most commercial daycares, your dog is going to be socializing with dozens of other dogs their size, allowing them to socialize with these other dogs. If your dog is shy, you may want to consider placing them in a smaller environment with fewer dogs, which is common for most private dog daycares that are in individual’s homes.

  No matter which type of dog daycare you decide to go with, you are providing your dog with needed social time and human attention.  In the end, you will come home to a tired, but happy dog.

  ]]> http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/dog-daycares/feed/ 0 http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/housetraining-a-puppy/ http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/housetraining-a-puppy/#comments Wed, 19 Jan 2011 22:37:27 +0000 Susan http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/?p=73 If you are housetraining a puppy, or housetraining cats for that matter, there are some tips you should consider. Check out these ideas for housetraining dogs]]>

  If you are housetraining a puppy, or housetraining cats for that matter, there are some tips you should consider. Check out these ideas for housetraining dogs.

  No matter what anyone tells you, housetraining a puppy is not easy.   Unlike grown up dogs, housetraining a puppy can be a very frustrating experience since your puppy does not have a very large bladder, making it impossible for them to hold it throughout the day.  While it may be a very frustrating endeavor for both of you, it is well worth it as long as you have patient and are committed to housetraining your puppy.

  Challenges of Housetraining a Puppy

  If you ask the opinion of many dog owners, they will tell you that housetraining a puppy is easy, especially if they have had their dog for years.  More than likely, however, they are trying not to scare you away from wanting your dog.   Housetraining dogs is a very frustrating not because of the teaching being very difficult, but the inability for your dog to hold their bladder for long period of time.  As your dog gets older, however, their ability to hold their bladder for longer periods of time will improve.

  As well it is natural for a dog to want to mark its territory.  When your puppy has an accident in the house, it really doesn’t understand what it did wrong.   While a human’s natural instinct is to punish the puppy for breaking the rules, it is not the best way for housetraining a puppy.  With all of these issues, how exactly does housetraining a puppy happen if you work all day?

  The Right Way of Housetraining Dogs

  Unlike housetraining cats, you can’t just leave a dog in a room with a litter box and expect it to magically be housetrained.   While we may hope that housetraining a puppy is as easy as housetraining cats, it just isn’t going to happen.  To start housetraining dogs the right way, you need to understand the magic rules:

  • Never Punish Your Dogs for Accidents in the House
  • Be Consistent with Your Training
  • Always Feed Your Dog At the Same Time Everyday
  • Never Feed Your Dog Two Hours Before Bed
  • Pick Up Water Two Hours Before Bed

  While these rules may seem simple, your puppy isn’t going to like them.  We personally recommend that you crate train your puppy if they are under six months old.  When using a crate, it should be only slightly bigger them, allowing them to have little room in the cage.  Dogs naturally do not want to use the bathroom in their sleeping area, so this will make your job easier.

  Housetraining Dogs Advice

  As long as you are committed and patient with your dogs, they will be housetrained before you know it.  For more information on housetraining a puppy, we recommend you visit the following sites:

  • Pet Education.com House Training a Puppy
  • Guide to Responsible Dog Ownership
  • Perfect Paws: Housetraining a Puppy
  ]]> http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/housetraining-a-puppy/feed/ 0 http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/toilet-training-puppies/ http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/toilet-training-puppies/#comments Wed, 19 Jan 2011 22:22:37 +0000 Susan http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/?p=77 Looking into toilet training puppies? Housebreaking puppies can be easy with these toilet training puppies tips. Learn more about this new trick here!]]>

  Looking into toilet training puppies? Housebreaking puppies can be easy with these toilet training puppies tips. Learn more about this new trick here!

  Toilet training puppies is one of the first training exercises that every new parent is going to face when it comes to training a puppy.  While there may be other things we may wish to train our new friend first, nothing seems more important than making sure they go to the bathroom on a puppy training pad or outside.  While house training puppies isn’t easy, you will learn really quickly that it can be fun, as long as both of you are patient and willing to listen to some toilet training puppies tips from the experts.

  Learning to Toilet Train Puppies

  Unlike cats, puppies do not learn how to control their bladder immediately.  Until they ended up in your home, they were allowed to use the bathroom wherever they wished, mostly because the breeder cleaned up after the little pup in their own home.  Now that they are home with you, it is about time you start considering house training your pup.  While toilet training puppies is far from easy, it is not as difficult as you may think.

  Like any learning exercise, house training puppies is going to require a few things on your part.  To begin, you will need:

  • Puppy Training Pads
  • Long Leash
  • A Puppy Training Book
  • Patience

  While the process may seem intimidating at first, realize that your puppy is probably just as nervous as you.  Your puppy wants to make you happy, so make sure to give them the best chance possible.

  Housetraining Puppies: Your Puppy

  When you begin house training puppies, you will learn very quickly that your puppy wants to make you happy.  Their whole life revolves around their new master, so they want to make sure to everything right.  Your little puppy really doesn’t know they are doing anything wrong when they have an accident on the floor, so remember this when you consider punishing them.  As well, your puppy will only become afraid of you with constant punishment, doing the exact opposite of what you want.

  While toilet training puppies, your dog is going to want to mark everything, so make sure to discourage this behavior with treat and brining your dog outside whenever you see this happen.  With positive reinforcement, your dog will soon learn that peeing outside the right way to do things.

  Useful House Training Puppies Tips

  Remember, you aren’t the only one who has ever tried toilet training puppies, so take some free advice where you can get it.  Below, you will find some useful tips from those who have toilet trained puppies in the past.

  • Puppies can hold their bladder one hour for each month they’ve been alive
  • If you don’t see it happen, don’t punish
  • Positive reinforcement always works better than negative
  • Consider crate training your puppy at night

  Remember, once toilet training is over, your puppy will love the praise he or she is going to get from you.   Let your puppy enjoy making messes outside, not inside your house.

  ]]> http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/toilet-training-puppies/feed/ 0 http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/how-to-take-care-of-a-dog/ http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/how-to-take-care-of-a-dog/#comments Wed, 19 Jan 2011 21:54:52 +0000 Susan http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/?p=82 Want to learn how to take care of a dog? If you want to know how to train a dog or how to take care of a puppy, look no further! We have canine care info here]]>

  Want to learn how to take care of a dog? If you want to know how to train a dog or how to take care of a puppy, look no further! We have canine care info here,

  Before getting a dog, it is important to know how to take care of a dog.  Just like a child, a dog will take a great deal of your time and energy.  Owning a dog should never be an impulse decision, since they will live for twelve to fifteen years.  If you do not want your pup to end up in a shelter in a few years, it is important that you know the proper way how to train a dog and how to take care of a puppy.

  Important Aspects of How to Take Care of a Dog

  There is nothing better than sitting on the floor and playing with a puppy.  These bouncing and perky baby animals are always ready to play, leaving us happy as our kids run around the house with the new puppy.  While puppies are cute, they do require quite a bit of your time and energy. The most important aspects of taking care of a dog include:

  • Feeding
  • Water
  • Exercise
  • Grooming
  • Training

  While these tasks may seem simple, remember that like a child, they cannot wait until you are done with the dishes or you come home from work.  Dogs are living, breathing creatures that are going to take quite a bit of your money and time.  In many cases, you may want to consider sitting down with your spouse and talking about having a dog first, they are almost like committing to having a child.

  How to Take Care of a Puppy

  If you are bound and determined to have a puppy, you should first consider picking up some how to train a dog books.  Training is one of the hardest parts of having a dog and in many cases, bad training is linked to dogs being put in animal shelters.  No matter how stubborn your new puppy or dog may be, training is the most important aspects of learning how to take care of a dog.

  When you begin your training, it is important that you first:

  • Crate Train Your Dog
  • House Break Your Dog
  • Leash Train
  • Teach Your Dogs Commands
  • Teach Them Proper Behavior in Your Home

  None of these steps will be easy, but in the end, you will find yourself loving your dog even more once the training has been completed.  Learning how to care for a dog is a rewarding experience that will allow your family and your new puppy to better bond with one another.

  How to Train of a Dog Tutorials

  If you do not have the money to buy how to train a dog books, don’t worry, there are many great tutorials online on how to train your new puppy.  Some of these guides will also help you learn how to take care of a puppy if you find yourself with a litter of pups.

  • Dog Training Online
  • Free Dog Training Articles
  • Free Dog Training Info
  • Dog Training Tutorials

  While these sites may seem great, also remember that they may not teach you everything.  If you have any questions about training your dog, always feel free to talk to your veterinarian.

  ]]> http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/how-to-take-care-of-a-dog/feed/ 0 http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/puppy-day-care/ http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/puppy-day-care/#comments Wed, 19 Jan 2011 21:46:40 +0000 Susan http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/?p=85 Need puppy day care but not sure where to start? Find options on boarding your pup right here, & make sure she's always in good hands!]]>

  Need puppy day care but not sure where to start? Find options on boarding your pup right here, & make sure she’s always in good hands!

  Little puppies take a lot of attention during the day, making puppy day care ideal for families who can’t have someone home all day with their new puppy.  From the time puppies are born, they are surrounded by their mother and their siblings, making it quite depressing when they learn that while their humans are away, they are stuck an empty house.  In many cases, puppies who are left along are more destructive because they are nervous, and scared.  By using the services of a puppy day care, you can keep both you and your puppy happy.

  What You can Expect at Puppy Day Care

  At a puppy day care, your little puppy will be able to socialize with other puppies of their age and size.  Every one of these dog day care centers are very concerned about your dog’s well being, so they make sure to place your puppy with other dogs of their temperament and size.  For most puppies, this is exactly what they are looking for, since they can play both indoor and outdoor with other puppies that have just as much energy as themselves.

  When you first enter a puppy day care, you will notice that there is a variety of fun activities awaiting your puppy.   Typically, you will see in these areas:

  • Outdoor and Indoor Playing Equipment (like children’s toys)
  • Training Areas
  • Nap Time Zones
  • Large Running Area

  Typical Day in a Puppy Day Care

  While every puppy day care is different, they are designed to make not only your puppy happy, but you.   One of the most well known puppy day cares, Dogtopia, has a fun filled schedule for your puppy that includes not only one on one interactions with humans, but with other puppies in their group.  Here is the normal schedule for a puppy at Dogtopia, which is very similar to what other puppies will have at commercial puppy day cares.

  Time	Activity
  7:00 am  – 12:00 PM	Puppies Arrive and Open Playtime
  12:00 – 2PM	Nap Time
  2:00 PM – 7:00 PM	Puppy Play Time and Pickup

  Since puppies can arrive at any point during the day, puppy day care is also ideal if you need to run a few errands.  With the assistants of their well trained staff, you won’t even have to ruin your housetraining schedule.

  Puppy Day Care: What You Need

  After you have chosen a puppy day care that you like for your puppy, there are going to be a few things you will need.   While these things are simple, no puppy day care is going to take your puppy without these requirements:

  • Current Vaccinations
  • Flea and Parasite Free
  • Over 3 Months of Age

  Just remember that every doggy daycare will have their own requirements, so make sure to ask them before your puppy begins.  Once your dog has been to puppy day care, they will thank you for never being left home alone again.

  ]]> http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/puppy-day-care/feed/ 0 http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/canine-care/ http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/canine-care/#comments Wed, 19 Jan 2011 21:39:02 +0000 Susan http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/?p=89 Looking for information on canine care? Canine teeth care & canine health care are important elements of dogs care. Learn more for your pet right here!]]>

  Looking for information on canine care? Canine teeth care & canine health care are important elements of dogs care. Learn more for your pet right here!

  Getting a dog is a lot of responsibility, especially when it comes to canine care.  While many people think that pets are just a cute addition to their family, especially when they are puppies, canine health care is an important part of keeping your new dog healthy.  Before you get your new dog, consider how much canine health care is going to cost, as well as the typical care your dog is going to take.  No matter what anyone tells you dogs care about their own health.

  Canine Care Information

  In today’s world we hear a great deal about human health care, and it is rightly a major concern to us and our families.  Yet, why do we think little about canine care?  Our dogs have their own health needs too that can easily cost us hundreds of dollars a year in canine care if we do not properly care for our dogs.  During a regular year, we can expect to pay for vet visits that include:

  • Canine Teeth Care Checkups
  • Annual Dog Vaccinations
  • Canine Checkups
  • Canine Illness Visits

  Many families who get their first dog do not take into account canine care, which can easily cost hundreds of dollars the first year with a new puppy.  While some things may seem like extravagant costs when it comes to a dog, canine care is not optional if you want to have a happy, healthy, long lived dog.

  Canine Health Care Insurance

  For families who are on a budget, dog care can easily get expensive.  With many vet trips being a minimum of a hundred dollars, you learn very quickly that your dog’s medical expensive are going to be just as expensive as your kids.  To help you afford your dogs medical expenses, it is always best to have canine heath care.  Like human health insurance, canine insurance allows you to pay a small fee each month to compensate for any major canine medical bills.

  Some of the most well known canine care plans include:

  • AKC Pet Healthcare Plan
  • Pet Best Insurance
  • Pet First Healthcare

  Since the breed and age of your dog matters for determining your premium, make sure to call the insurance company first to get an accurate quote for your favorite dog.

  Proper Canine Care: Dogs Care

  Even if you cannot afford insurance for your dog, you should still practice correct canine care for your dog.   By giving your dog the basic care it needs through an annual vet visit and canine teeth care, you are prolonging your dog’s life, allowing it to be with your family a bit longer.    If you have any questions about what care you should be giving your dog, make sure to talk to your vet, they will be happy to give you information on normal canine care and health insurance.

  ]]> http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/canine-care/feed/ 0 http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/scratching-posts-for-cats/ http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/scratching-posts-for-cats/#comments Wed, 19 Jan 2011 21:23:30 +0000 Susan http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/?p=93 Need scratching posts for cats? Or trying to make cat scratching posts? Find cheap cat scratching posts to buy as well. There are many options for your cat!]]>

  Need scratching posts for cats? Or trying to make cat scratching posts? Find cheap cat scratching posts to buy as well. There are many options for your cat!

  By having scratching posts for cats throughout your home, you are protecting your house from possible damage, as well as giving your cat a bit of exercise.  It’s natural for cats to want to scratch, and with a cheap cat scratching posts, your cat can do what is natural without damaging any of your furniture.  While you can get your cat declawed, this is unnecessary if you give your cat something to dig their claws into, especially if you can make cat scratching posts in your own home.

  Why Scratching Posts for Cats are Important

  Let’s face it – cats need to scratch on objects.  Even if your cat is declawed, you have probably noticed them trying to scratch your carpet or furniture.  Scratching isn’t something your cat can control since it is one of their natural instincts.  When a cat starts scratching on an object in your home, they are:

  • Exercising
  • Marking their Territory
  • Sharpening their claws

  Some people have claimed that you can stop a cat from scratching with training, but to do this, you are fighting against a cat’s natural instinct, something that will leave both of you frustrated.  Instead of trying to change your cat from being a cat, you can place scratching posts for cats around your home, allowing your cat an area where they are allowed to scratch without fear of punishment.

  Choosing Cheap Scratching Posts for Cats

  Walking into your local pet store, you were probably quickly floored by the variety of scratching posts for cats that are available on the market today.  Many scratching posts that are available today double as sleeping areas for cats, and toys, allowing these elaborate posts to be decorations throughout your house.  Unfortunately, some of the most elaborate of these scratching sots for cats are also quite costly, leaving you wondering how you are going to afford to put toys like this throughout your home.

  While you can spend hundreds of dollars on scratching posts for cats, this really isn’t necessary.  Many places online, such as Pet Mountain, offer cheap cat scratching posts for pet owners.  These scratching posts typically costs anywhere from $10 to $100, depending on how elaborate you wish to be with all of your cat’s scratching posts.   Just remember, you will probably need at least four scratching posts for cats in your home if you want to prevent damage.

  Make Cat Scratching Posts

  If you like, you can also make your own scratching posts for cats in your own home.  Depending on your skill and creativity, you can do just about anything you can imagine.  Below, we have some wonderful sites that tell you how to make these scratching posts, as well as some fun and creative plans.

  • Free Cat Furniture Plans
  • DIY Cat Scratching Posts and Trees
  • How to Make a Cat Scratching Post

  Once you have scratching posts in your home for your feline friends, you will see your cats destructive scratching quickly decreasing.  Once they know this is their territory, you won’t be able to get them off these fun posts.

  ]]> http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/scratching-posts-for-cats/feed/ 0 http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/cat-illness-and-symptoms/ http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/cat-illness-and-symptoms/#comments Wed, 19 Jan 2011 21:14:12 +0000 Susan http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/?p=97 Need to learn more about cat illness & symptoms? Sometimes there's more to cat sneezing than you realize! Find info on cat illness signs & cat illness diagnosis]]>

  Need to learn more about cat illness & symptoms? Sometimes there’s more to cat sneezing than you realize! Find info on cat illness signs & cat illness diagnosis.

  As a cat owner, you know the important of being able to diagnosis cat illnesses and symptoms.  While you are far from a veterinarian, you also know that cats are wonderful at hiding when they are sick, making it important that you know how to look for cat illness signs.  Unlike humans, it is rare to see a cat sneezing and coughing, so you have to keep up to date with cat illnesses if you want to avoid your cat becoming seriously ill.  Luckily, you can find information on most of the common cat illnesses and cat illness diagnosis information on the internet.

  Cat Illness Diagnosis: Common Illnesses

  In many cases, cat sneezing isn’t a reason to call your veterinarian, but there are quite a few cat illnesses that will require you to know about cat illnesses and symptoms.  In the past, many people assumed that the only way you would know about cat illnesses and symptoms was if you were a medical doctor, but luckily, you can find most of this information online today.  While you may not be a doctor, you can at least sound intelligent when you call your vet about possible problems.

  When talking to your veterinarian, however, almost remember that you are not a doctor and tell the vet about the cat illness signs you had observed, as well as your suspicions.   This will help him better find a cat illness diagnosis for your family pet.   When you begin looking at cat illnesses and symptoms, you will find that there are three very common cat illnesses:

  • Urinary Tract Infections
  • Respiratory Infections
  • Diabetes

  Cat Illnesses and Symptoms: Urinary Tract Infections

  One of the most common cat illnesses that nearly every cat will be diagnosed with at some point in their life is a urinary tract infection.  Just like humans, a UT can be very painful for your cat and be caused by a dirty litter box that is not being cleaned frequent enough.  If you believe your cat has a UT, they will:

  • Whine and Yelp When Using the Litter box
  • Have Blood in their Urine
  • Frequently Use the Litter box

  In most cases, a UT for a cat will be mild and will fix itself, but in severe cases, call your vet for an antibiotic.

  Cat Illnesses and Symptoms: Respiratory Infections

  If you have indoor cats, you will very likely never have to worry about your cat having a respiratory infection.  For family cats who move in and out of the house, however, you should be concerned if you see the following symptoms.

  • Runny Nose
  • Lethargic
  • Fever
  • Coughing

  Even if your cat is only showing some of these signs, call your vet immediately since a Respiratory infection can easily become deadly.

  Cat Illnesses and Symptoms: Diabetes

  Like human, diabetes can be a silent killer.  Diabetes occurs when your cat is unable to produce their own insulin, and can cut your cat’s life in half if it is untreated.  If your cat is show any of the signs listed below, taking them to the vet immediately.

  • Excessive Drinking
  • Increased Weight Gain
  • Urinating Excessively

  Knowing cat illnesses and symptoms can easily save your cats life, so make sure to keep this list and some good pet illnesses checkers saved on your computer.

  ]]> http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/cat-illness-and-symptoms/feed/ 0 http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/cat-behavior-problems/ http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/cat-behavior-problems/#comments Wed, 19 Jan 2011 21:07:07 +0000 Susan http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/?p=99 Want info on cat behavior problems? Cat aggression & cat attitude problems are real & can be treated. Find more about cat behavior disorder here!]]>

  Want info on cat behavior problems? Cat aggression & cat attitude problems are real & can be treated. Find more about cat behavior disorder here!

  Dealing with cat behavior problems can be frustrating for pet owners, especially when this behavior leads to your curtains being shredded or another family animal being bullied.  We love our cat, but sometimes you can’t help but wonder if your cat is suffering from a cat behavior disorder.  In many cases, cat behavior problems can be fixed with a bit of patience and retraining on both of your parts.  While this may be exciting news, realize that that your cat attitude problems are not going to be fixed overnight and it’s going to be an uphill battle.

  Cat Behavior Problems: The Cause

  While we may joke about our cat having a cat behavior disorder, there is usually good reason for their cat behavior problems.  Most of the time, your cat is trying to communicate a problem.  Many of the issues that can cause a cat to display bad behavior include:

  • Loneliness
  • The addition of a new family member (person or animal)
  • Stress and Anxiety
  • Sexual

  No matter what the problem is cat behavior problems can be fixed as long as you are willing to find the problem.  Never punish your cat without finding out the cause of this behavior.  Sometimes, bad behavior can also be due to pain if they are suffering from an illness. If you believe your cat is suffering from a personality change due to pain or illness, contact your veterinarian immediately.

  Dealing with Cat Attitude Problems

  When many families start dealing with cat behavior problems, they usually have little patience for their family friend.  Most of the time cat attitude problems stem from the cat having very little training as a kitten.  This can lead to cat aggression not only toward other animals, but other members in your family.  While you may be tempted to send them to the pound once they hurt a family member, remember that most of the time your cat thinks of this as playing or defending their territory.

  To start the retraining process, you will need a way to vocalize that this behavior is inappropriate.  The best way of doing this is ignoring your cat when this behavior occurs (scratching or biting), or using a spray bottle.   Another great training method is using load noises, such as a rolled up newspaper.  When dealing with cat behavior problems, however, never hit your cat.  This is unnecessary and your cat will not understand why you are attacking them.

  Cat Aggression

  One of the hardest issues to fix is cat aggression, especially if it’s instigated by another cat in the household.  In many cases, cat aggression is brought on by a cat being territorial or being sexual active.  Even cats or have been spayed or neutered can show sexual behaviors.  To help decrease this behavior, spray your cat with a water bottle or put a pillow between the two fighting cats.  This will break up the fight immediately.  While your cats may need to deal with their territorial issues, this should never be taken to the point that blood is drawn.    If one of your cats are in heat, however, make sure to separate them from the male, unless you want kittens.

  With a bit of time, your cat behavior problems will decrease, leaving you with a happy, healthy cat.

  ]]> http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/cat-behavior-problems/feed/ 1 http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/care-of-a-kitten/ http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/care-of-a-kitten/#comments Wed, 19 Jan 2011 20:44:27 +0000 Susan http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/?p=102 Want to learn more about care of a kitten? This guide for kittens has quite a bit of info on treatment of a kitten, & eventually care of a cat]]>

  Want to learn more about care of a kitten? This guide for kittens has quite a bit of info on treatment of a kitten, & eventually care of a cat.

  Now that your cat has had kittens, it is time to learn how to take care of a kitten.  With many kittens running around your home, you will learn very quickly that taking care of kittens is very different than taking care of a cat.  While we may want to lie and say taking care of a kitten is easy, it is very rewarding and you will learn quickly why many people hate seeing their little kittens leave the nest.

  Taking Care of a Kitten: What You need to Know

  Taking care of a kitten is a lot of work, and you will learn quickly that you will have a lot to take care of, especially if the mother does not want to nurse.  Most of the time, cats have anywhere from two to five kittens.  While you may want to get rid of these kittens early, it is not the proper way to take care of a kitten.  Kittens do not begin weaning from their mother until they are about four weeks of age, eventually eating solid food by the time they reach eight weeks.  To make sure your kitten gets proper nutrition, do not separate a kitten from its mother until it reaches eight week of age.

  While you may be worried about the kittens overall health, also remember that you must take care of the mommy cat.  Follow the same rules you would to take care of a cat, but make sure to give your cat kitten food to eat.  This will give everyone more nutrition.

  Treatment of a Kitten: Mommy Cat not Nursing

  No matter how much you know how to take care of a cat, you will find that sometimes the mother cat doesn’t want to nurse.  Don’t feel like you did something wrong, some cats just won’t do it, especially if one of the kittens is sick.  Also, never give the kittens’ cow’s milk.  This will make them sick, so make sure to have some special kitten milk in hand that you can buy at your local pet store.  Since most mothers will be happy to nurse their new kittens, it is very likely you will not be having these issues.

  Guide for Kittens: What New Owners Need to Know

  When it’s time to eventually separate your little kittens from mom, make sure that you have a typed out list of information or guides for kittens available for your new owners.  Many owners have no clue what they are getting themselves into, so this will help the new owners.   Some of the best guides for kittens including:

  • About.com Kitten Care
  • Paw Rescue.org
  • Kitten Advice from Cat Chow.com

  While these guides for kittens may not give you everything you need to know on how to take care of a kitten, they will help you at least get started.   If you have any questions, always feel free to ask your veterinarian.

  ]]> http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/care-of-a-kitten/feed/ 0 http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/cat-eye-problems/ http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/cat-eye-problems/#comments Wed, 19 Jan 2011 20:39:02 +0000 Susan http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/?p=105 Concerned about your kitty's cat eye problems? Find info here on cat eye diseases, including cat eye infections & what cat eye discharge means]]>

  Concerned about your kitty’s cat eye problems? Find info here on cat eye diseases, including cat eye infections & what cat eye discharge means.

  As your cat ages, it is more likely to develop cat eye problems.  While there is little we can do about old age in our favorite feline, cat eye problems can be a true issue if they start developing before a cat has reached its senior years.  Most of the time, these issues are nothing more than cat eye infections, but other times, they can be diagnosed as a number of cat eye diseases.   Being a smart pet owner, however, there are a few things we can do to help prevent and treat cat eye problems with a bit of research.

  Diagnosing Cat Eye Problems

  Unlike many other illnesses, determining if your cat has cat eye problems can be quite easy.   Your cat’s eyes should normally look alert and clear, not showing any signs of cat eye discharge or redness.   If your cat is starting to show signs of cat eye problems, you will notice their eyes being:

  • Red
  • Possibly Swollen
  • Cat Eye Discharge

  As well as showing these signs of a cat eye infection or various cat eye diseases, your cat may be having eyesight issues, being unable to see normal things around your house.  In some severe cases, however, they may also be showing some problematic behavior, leading to a personality change due to pain and stress from the infection.

  Common Cat Eye Diseases

  Most of the time if your cat is having cat eye problems, it will be due to a cat eye infection.  Other times, however, they may be showing signs of having a variety of different eye diseases.  While some of these diseases can be quite severe, most can be fixed with an antibiotic from your vet.  The most common of these diseases are:

  • Cat Pink Eye
  • Feline Glaucoma
  • Feline Herpes virus

  Even though these cat eye problems can be fixed with an antibiotic, you can prevent your cat from having these diseases by keeping your cat’s vaccines up to date and keeping them indoors.  Many of these diseases are viral infections, so by keeping your cat away from other cats, you will help keep their eyes healthier.

  Solving to Cat Eye Problems

  In many cases, cat eye problems can be solved by using a saline solution.  While your cat may not like having their eyes flushed with this solution for a week, it will help clear out the infection.  If the infection is not starting to clear in a few days, however, make sure to call your veterinarian since your cat may need an antibiotic.  In some cases, your vet may not be able to cure the problem, but he can give you possible solutions to help alleviate your cat’s pain.  With a bit of time and effort, you will solve all of your cat’s eye problems, leaving everyone in your family happier, especially your feline family members.

  ]]> http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/cat-eye-problems/feed/ 0 http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/outdoor-cat-shelter/ http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/outdoor-cat-shelter/#comments Wed, 19 Jan 2011 18:59:05 +0000 Susan http://www.dogandcatexperts.com/?p=111 Making an outdoor cat shelter for your feline friend? Check out these ideas for an outdoor cat house, a crucial part of outdoor cat care]]>

  Making an outdoor cat shelter for your feline friend? Check out these ideas for an outdoor cat house, a crucial part of outdoor cat care.

  During the winter, many people feel sorry for feral felines, leaving them wanting to build outdoor cat shelters.  Even though feral cats have thick winter coats, this does not protect them from winter temperatures and conditions, leaving many cats to die in these conditions if they cannot find some form of outside cat shelter.  While the best thing to do may be to get humane traps to bring these cats to a shelter, you can always help these felines by helping them find outdoor cat shelter in your very own yard.

  Why Feral Cats Need Outdoor Cat Shelter

  Even though we know we are not supposed to feed stray animals, we can’t help but fall in love with feral cats.  Most feral cats in the warmer months pick a territory which they consider home, sometimes being your very own yard if they have plenty of food.  When the temperatures began to drop, however, these cats find themselves in a bad predicament, mostly due to the fact that they are still homeless.

  Many humans have the misconception of believing that outdoor cats will do just fine in the winter since they have thick coats.  This coat is meant to help them keep warm while they look for shelter, not protect them from frigid weather.   As a human, it is your job to provide outdoor cat care for the feral cats in your yard by providing them with outdoor cat shelter.  If cats do not have some form of outside cat house, they are likely to:

  • Die from Hypothermia
  • Fall through Ice Hunting for Food
  • Frostbite
  • Injury from Engines Trying to Keep Warm

  Since none of us like to see animals suffer, we need to provide proper outdoor cat care to these unfortunate cats.  Luckily, we can do this by providing outdoor cat shelter to these felines.

  What an Outdoor Cat House Needs

  Before you prepare to buy or make an outside cat shelter, there are a few things you need to know first.  Making a proper outdoor cat house is going to take a bit of effort, since it will need to be insulted, able to handle the weather, and preferably have some form of heat inside the house.  By doing this, your outdoor felines will be able to feel more comfortable during the winter months, as well as feel safe.  Preferably, you should also have the outdoor cat shelter off the ground so that unwanted animals do not go into the house.

  Where to Find An Outdoor Cat Shelter

  While you can build your own outdoor cat shelter, most of us are not expert carpenters.   Instead of spending an entire weekend building one of these houses, consider buying a nice dog house.  One of the best doghouses that you can buy to be an outdoor cat shelter is a dog igloo, which is insulted and will keep these cats out of the cold.  Even though outdoor cat shelters are not cheap, they are worth it in the end, since they save the lives of precious cats, allowing us to keep these felines safe and warm.

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