Rescue Rangers

Litter Robot Review

Litter Robot Review If you’re considering buying a Litter Robot, I’m here to tell you about my experience so that it doesn’t become your experience. I had a Litter Robot 3 Connect and ended up throwing it away after two years. And yes, it still worked. I threw away a fully functional $500 Litter Robot. I have five cats, and here’s my Litter Robot Review. Pros And Cons Of The Litter Robot Let’s start with a simple review of the Pros and Cons of the Litter Robot. First, it’s a pretty good automatic litter box. You won’t have to scoop litter daily, and it even works well with multiple cats (I have five). It’s quiet compared to other automatic litter boxes, and it does look pretty cool. Generally speaking, the Litter Robot 3 is a great automatic cat litter box. After all, I did use it for two years. Now, here are some Cons of the Litter Robot. While you won’t have to scoop litter daily, you will have to change the waste drawer every day or two and generally do some light cleaning each time. Like most automatic litter boxes, this one rotates pretty slowly, especially when your kitty needs to go potty and your Robot is mid-cycle. Slow cycle times are one reason I prefer a traditional litter box, especially in a multi-cat household. 16 Litter Robot Problems I outlined all the problems I had with the Litter Robot over the years, and here are 16 problems with the Litter Robot automatic litter box. How Often Do You Need To Clean The Litter Robot 3? You’ll want to take the Litter Robot apart and deep clean it every month or two. If you let it go longer than that, you’re really risking unsafe and unsanitary conditions. It’s also crucial to clean the litter bin every time you empty it and to occasionally wipe down the interior with a disinfectant. You’ll want to empty the cat litter bin every other day, regardless of how many cats you have. It starts to get stinky and funky after a few days. Unless it’s the main litter box, the litter bin doesn’t need to be emptied daily. How Does The Litter Robot 3 Connect Compare To Other Self-Cleaning Litter Boxes I also have a LitterMaid Multi-Cat Self-Cleaning litter box and compared it to the Litter Robot 3 Connect for this automatic litter box review. Honestly, I found that each one had Pros and Cons, and between the two, one is about $400 less expensive. If you don’t want the expensive price tag, you can definitely save money and still get the convenience of an automatic litter box by going with a cheaper brand. Litter Robots are good, but they aren’t without their flaws, and some cats don’t like using the Litter Robot due to the enclosed globe design. I found the main drawback of the LitterMaid to be that litter would clump on the cleaning comb, and I would occasionally need to scrape it off with the scoop. The motion sensor and automatic cleaning cycle had the same problems as the robot. Pros and Cons of A Self Cleaning Litter Box The Pros of a self-cleaning litter box, better known as an automatic litter box, are that you no longer need to scoop the litter box. Many of them also have a litter drawer, which you only need to empty a few times a week. Convenience is definitely the benefit of the automatic litter box compared to a regular litter box. The Cons of a self-cleaning litter box are that they are slow, harder to clean, occasionally error, and, of course, the price. If you have more than two cats, automatic litter boxes don’t work as well because multiple cats will use them more often, which can impact clumping or interrupt the rotation. I think the best situation for an automatic litter box is in two cat households and paired with a regular litter box. Self-cleaning litter boxes are convenient and usually worth the price, but you should also be prepared to maintain a normal litter box. Is The Litter Robot Worth It? In the right situation, the Litter Robot would make a great litter box. For someone who has challenges with daily scooping, has a cat that is regular with the litter box, and is able to clean it frequently, the Litter Robot would be an excellent choice. You’ll still have to deal with finding the right litter that won’t mold or smell, and you might still encounter sensor issues that cause problems. You can also save a bunch of money and get a self-cleaning litter box that isn’t quite as fancy. For me, the dealbreaker was the mold and the potential for health risks, which is why I wrote this review. We’re completely off self-cleaning and plastic litter boxes, and we’re now using hygienic and easy-to-clean stainless steel litter boxes. And guess what? I tested them all as I phased them out, and the stainless steel litter box was paws-down the cat’s favorite! Cat and human approved.

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Best Cat Repellents and Deterrents

Best Cat Repellent And Deterrents No one wants to scoop poop from someone else’s pet! Even pet owners who love cats might be looking for humane ways to keep outdoor cats out of their yards. Cats are sensitive creatures, so repelling them can be quite simple. Lavender planted around the garden, citrus peels cut into fine slices, and motion-detecting sprinklers are just a few options. It’s also a good idea to cover any dirt with rocks, chicken wire, or other objects to make it a less appealing place for cats to use as a litter box. In this article, we’ll discuss what attracts cats to the garden and the best cat repellent and deterrents to keep cats out of your yard for good! What Attracts Cats? Before you work to repel cats from your garden, let’s look at the things that might be attracting them. The first step is to remove temptations so that cats don’t have a reason to be in your yard in the first place. Cats are typically going to come into your yard for one of four reasons: food, shelter, a place to go potty, or because of other cats. Since you’re likely not feeding cats, we can mostly rule that out—but ensure your trash is secured so the cats don’t rummage through. Next, the cats might be looking for a place to hide. Cats spend the majority of their days hiding and sleeping. This could be under a deck, behind trash cans, in the bushes, or even under your car. Use runners to block off the space beneath your deck, park your car in the garage, and remove or block off access to other hiding spots as best you can. Additionally, you can add rough surfaces beneath the hiding space to make it less comfortable. Next, outdoor cats have to do their business somewhere! They’re most likely to attempt in easy-to-bury locations. Exposed dirt acts as a natural litterbox, while cats will be less likely to go in planters covered by rocks, for example. Lastly, there could be other cats or animal scents attracting them. My neighborhood cats like to tease my indoor cats sitting in the window. The outdoor cats will often times mark our front door as a result. Best Cat Repellents Cat Repellent Plants Cats’ noses are sensitive. Like dogs, they can smell things we cannot. The scents that are strong to us can be unbearable for them and work as an effective cat repellent. We can use this to our advantage when keeping cats out of the garden. Here are just a few cat-repellent plants that cats hate: Plant these scattered throughout the garden or in the location you want cats to discourage cats from. It’s very likely to deter them! Rough Surfaces Cats are creatures of comfort, and they don’t like the feeling of rough surfaces beneath their feet. Plastic carpet runners are a great way to keep cats from the garden. Leave them pointy-side up, and the cats are sure to turn away after stepping one foot onto them! A plastic carpet is good for indoor and outdoor use to train the cat’s behavior. You can also use chicken wire or anything else with a gridded style to prevent digging. The mesh will be uncomfortable while not hurting the kitties’ feet. This is also a good option to lay under the top layer of your flower beds. Another option is to scatter natural materials like pinecones, rocks, and sticks around the garden to make the ground rough and unpleasant. These natural ingredients also make for some beautiful landscaping if you get creative with it! Food Scent Repellents Cats hate scents like citrus, cinnamon, bitter apple spray, and peppermint, which are non-toxic and completely safe for cats. Scattering some orange peels in the garden or topping your soil with ground cinnamon can be enough to keep cats out. These foods are also good for your plants once they break down, providing nutrients to the soil—though this does take time, particularly if the foods are in large pieces, as with citrus peels. Cat Repellent Sprays Never spray a cat directly with repellents, and never use harsh chemicals or sprays that aren’t approved for cat use. Cat sprays contain strong smells that cats find unpleasant, such as citronella, peppermint, and garlic. Sentry Stop creates a line of natural cat repellent sprays that you can use on your entire yard. Spraying these solutions around the perimeter of your yard or garden is an effective way to deter cats from entering. The key is to reapply the cat spray regularly so that it remains potent. A good cat repellent spray with a strong smell can last up to two months and keep your yard free of most cats. Sprinklers We all know that cats hate water, but there’s no way you can sit outside with a spray bottle or hose around the clock to keep the cats away. They’re primarily active at night, and besides, your neighbors would likely judge! Instead, install motion-activated sprinklers around the garden. These will turn on when the cats approach, and the consistency will keep them away. Sprinklers can be a very effective cat deterrent! Ultrasonic Sound Cat Deterrents Ultrasonic deterrent devices will emit a sound that repels cats, but human ears can’t hear. They’re motion-activated and best used at the entrance of your yard or garden or in the places where cats hang out the most since they cover small areas. Be careful if you have your own pets at home, as this noise might also bother them. Wildlife may also be affected. Motion Lights Motion-activated lights can scare away skittish cats, particularly if they’re feral and avoid interacting with humans. These can be scattered throughout the garden or put in the kitty’s favorite spots to deter them from coming around. Dummies and Scarecrows Dummies and scarecrows can also be placed on fencing or elsewhere in the yard to scare cats away. There are dummies made to

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Cat and Kitten Feeding Guidelines

Cat And Kitten Feeding Guidelines Diet is arguably the most important part of your cat’s care. Food gives their bodies the energy and strength to prowl, pounce, and play around the house. It’s important to follow cat and kitten feeding guidelines to provide the nutrients to keep their muscles, bones, and fur healthy for life! Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they were built to eat meat. They need protein, carbohydrates, and fatty acids in their diet. Two key nutrients in a cat’s diet are taurine and arachidonic acid, both of which only come from animal products. High-quality cat food contains meat as the first ingredient, followed by other healthy protein sources. The first five ingredients are most important in any cat food, as ingredients are listed by weight, starting with the heaviest. Also, ensure your cat’s diet is suitable for their age, health, and activity level. It’s also very important to feed all cats a wet food diet because cats get their water and hydration from their food. Feeding a dry food-only diet can cause kidney failure, which, unfortunately, is all too common. Below, we’ll go over four guidelines that will help you feed your cat the right diet throughout its lifetime. 1. Provide Proper Nutrition Of course, our number one priority when selecting a cat food is to provide for our cat’s nutritional needs, body condition, and life stage. Unlike humans, cats are obligate carnivores—meaning they must eat meat. Protein is one of the most important parts of a cat’s diet. Ideally, this protein is made from named ingredients, like chicken, turkey, or salmon. The food packaging nutritional label should include the name of the meat and the body part included in the food. For instance, “chicken liver” is much clearer than “poultry.” It tells you exactly what your cat is eating and limits the possibility of the food containing less desirable animal byproducts. While high-quality cat foods can contain protein sources that aren’t meat, you do want meat to be the primary source of protein in the food. Other nutrients essential to cats are taurine and arachidonic acid. These come only from animal products and aren’t found in plants. Cats also need carbs, fatty acids, and various vitamins in their diet to live a long healthy life. Is It Safe To Feed Cats Raw Food? Raw food is also growing in popularity, with professionals on both sides of the fence. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) are against feeding raw food, stating it poses dangers to humans and cats. If you choose to feed raw, source your raw meats carefully to avoid health risks, such as salmonella poisoning. I also don’t recommend a homemade raw diet, as there are too many ways to mistakenly harm your cat unless you’re an expert in cat nutrition. Instead, go with a reputable raw food brand and talk to your veterinarian before changing your cat’s food. To keep yourself and your family safe, learn how to handle raw meat and always disinfect surfaces touched by your cat’s raw food. How Do I Know If My Cat’s Food Is High-Quality? The best way to know if your cat’s food is high-quality is to consult with your veterinarian or go with a nutritionist-recommended brand. Here are our favorite human-grade wet cat food diets. Of course, there are also other indicators of high-quality food. After doing some research, the second-best thing you can do is look at the ingredients list. Here are some things that high-quality cat foods have in common: You’ll also want to consider the name of the food. This is because of the following guidelines, which were set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO): It’s annoying for pet parents to have to decode this language, but it’s important to know before choosing the best food for your cat. 2. Cat Food Must Provide Hydration You might have noticed that your cat doesn’t drink a lot of water. This is because cats naturally get their water from prey and wouldn’t drink much at all if left to their own devices outdoors. When cats do drink, they tend to prefer running water to still water—further decreasing your cat’s desire to drink from a dish. For this reason, many people advocate for feeding cats wet food only. Young kittens, outdoor cats, and senior cats should all eat wet food. There are several good quality brands for wet food that have the appropriate amount of nutrients at a reasonable cost. Is Canned Food Or Kibble Better For Cats? Canned food is best for cats because it contains more water and is less processed. However, cats can live long lives on kibble diets, however, it comes with a higher risk of kidney disease. Because kibble is cheaper, it’s many people’s only option for feeding their furry friends. If your cat eats kibble, I recommend hydrating it before you give it to them. This process is as simple as adding a small amount of water and allowing the kibble to soak in it for a brief period of time. For added flavor and nutrition, you can use pure, unsalted chicken or bone broth. These can also be easy ways to introduce variety to your cat’s diet without changing their food drastically. Some cats prefer dry cat food, but it’s because they don’t know any better. There are also kibble toppers on the market, or you can make your own by cooking unseasoned meat for your cats. A bit of salmon or chicken on top of the kibble will add nutrition and entice your cat to eat. 3. Feed on a Schedule Most cats do best on a feeding schedule, and research has shown that grown cats should eat at least two meals a day. Most kittens will eat more frequently and more calories than two meals per day. If you’d like to feed more frequent, smaller meals, this is completely fine! The important thing

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How To Stop Your Cat From Scratching Things

How To Stop Your Cat From Scratching Things The cat is scratching up the sofa again! How do we stop them from scratching things? The best way to stop cats from scratching is to provide plenty of enrichment, including scratching posts and toys. Use positive reinforcement to train your cat to scratch their scratchers rather than your furniture or other items. Avoid scent deterrents and punishments, and never declaw your cat, as this can cause lifelong health problems. In this article, we’ll go through everything you need to know to stop your cat from scratching your furniture and to provide them with the enrichment they need to stay happy and healthy. Why Does My Cat Scratch Everything? Cats scratch for a variety of reasons, but primarily because it’s an instinctive impulse. This means you can’t expect a cat not to scratch! Scratching is beneficial to cats in many ways, including: How To Stop Cats From Scratching Furniture Although scratching is instinctual and essential for cats, most humans don’t like their things destroyed, especially brand new furniture or a new sofa. Left unchecked, your cat can scratch up your furniture, your carpet, and your curtains, leaving your house in shreds! Luckily, there’s a way to manage where our cats scratch to minimize damage and ruined furniture. However, if you’re adopting a kitten, you should expect and plan for inappropriate scratching until your cat is trained. It’s similar to the puppy teething period, where they chew your favorite shoes! Trim Your Cat’s Nails Regularly Animals love to scratch when they have sharp claws. Scratching is also a way to keep their claws sharp, which can make the situation worse. The best way to minimize damage and prevent cats from scratching is to keep your cat’s claws trimmed and short. You can do this by trimming their nails monthly or every few weeks. If you notice the nails getting sharper, giving them a quick trim in between is fine, too! I recommend taking some time to get to know your pet’s paws before trimming their nails for the first time. Here are some tips for trimming your cat’s nails. Initially, cut only the tip of your cat’s claw. This will help you to avoid the quick completely. As you gain more experience and confidence, you can cut them even shorter. In black cats, the quick can be more difficult to see. It may look like a dark spot near the base of the claw rather than being a more distinguishable pink. Here are some extra tips for your cat’s manicure: Provide Plenty of Scratching Options If you don’t have a scratching post or a dedicated scratching surface for your cat, don’t blame them for scratching your furniture! As we discussed above, scratching is perfectly natural for cats. What a lot of people don’t know is that even one scratcher isn’t enough for many felines. Having a variety of scratchers will help improve your cat’s scratching habits by rewarding good scratch marks, which also deposit their smell onto the surface. Here are some things to consider when it comes to cat scratchers: Vertical Scratching Posts Vs. Horizontal Scratching Surfaces The first thing I recommend for cat owners is to look at vertical and horizontal scratchers. Most cats prefer one over the other, though most will scratch horizontally if that’s all they have. Here are some of our favorite cat scratchers. It should be easy to find out your cat’s preference just by watching them. Vertical scratchers will favor the side of your couch or curtains, while horizontal scratchers will favor the carpet or the arms of your chair. You should have at least one of each type of scratcher in your home. Ideally, you’ll have two or more scratchers per cat for several reasons and meet their preferences. These don’t have to be fancy. Cats love scratching cardboard boxes, cat trees with multiple scratching posts, and square carpet samples. Material Providing a variety of materials can also help your cats develop preferences and help you figure out what attracts them most. The most common materials are cardboard, sisal rope, and carpet. Cardboard is the cheapest and pretty normal to use, but it also shreds easily. You’ll be picking up cardboard pieces from your floor regularly and replacing the scratchers often. Some cats love them because of that mess factor, though! Sisal rope is more durable and tough to claw. It’s great for young cats, but older cats with joint issues might not favor it. It does hold up much longer than cardboard! Carpet is a somewhat controversial choice. Some people think it’s great because it replicates what their cats already love to claw! Others find that their cats seem to be confused by the rules when they’re allowed to scratch some carpet, but not all carpet in the house. It’s easier to scratch through than sisal rope but lasts longer than cardboard. Height And Length The areas most cat scratchers fail are height and length. Unfortunately, many products on the market aren’t actually suitable for a full-grown cat. Your cat’s scratchers should either be the height of your cat when they stand on their hind legs with their front legs fully extended upwards or the length of your cat when sitting or standing with their front legs outstretched fully in front of them. If it’s smaller, your cat isn’t able to fully stretch its body, which is one of the main reasons they scratch furniture. Therefore, they might move to scratch the back of your couch instead because it’s tall enough for them to stretch while scratching. Stability Lastly, scratchers need to be stable and sturdy! Many vertical posts don’t meet this requirement and wobble when your cat scratches them. This can make your cat think the post is going to fall on them, and they don’t want that! Your pet would rather scratch the curtains that are securely hooked to the wall or your couch that doesn’t sway beneath their claws. Secure Your

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Are Cats Happier Indoors or Outdoors?

Are Cats Happier Indoors or Outdoors? We all want what’s best for our feline friends, but with all of the information out there, it can be difficult to decide what that is. When it comes to outdoor vs. indoor cats, opinions are incredibly strong on both sides. Among cat lovers, there are differing opinions about whether cats are happier outdoors or indoors. The real question for most people is if we should let our indoor cats venture outside once in a while. If you’ve seen a happy cat playing outside and lying in the sunshine, it’s hard to say they aren’t happy. One of the reasons this question comes up is because your cat tells you they want to go outside, and they can be very stubborn and convincing. When discussing indoor vs outdoor cats, it’s important to consider the lifespan, safety, and quality of life differences between keeping cats indoors or allowing them outdoors. So, do domestic cats need to be able to free roam outside in order to live their best lives? The answer that most veterinarians, animal experts, and experienced cat owners will give you is a resounding No! Feline pets should remain indoors with proper enrichment and not be allowed to free roam outside. Indoor-only cats, with the proper environment and access to outdoor entertainment, will live extremely fulfilling lives that are free from the dangers of the great outdoors. In this article, we will outline the potential dangers for outdoor cats and provide tips for enrichment activities that nurture their natural instincts. Do Indoor Cats Get Bored? One of the most common arguments for allowing cats outdoors is that they’ll become bored and feel trapped inside the house. Some people believe that indoor life prevents cats from acting on their normal instincts and living happy, healthy lives. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth! Indoor cats, when properly cared for, are happier and healthier than their outdoor counterparts. Keeping indoor cats happy doesn’t take much effort at all—30-45 minutes of daily play easily replicates the hunting experience while keeping your cat and local wildlife safe. Using a variety of cat toys, such as wands and balls, and rotating favorite toys can provide indoor enrichment and keep your cat engaged. Here are some things to note when it comes to indoor cats and their lifestyle: Enrichment For Indoor Cats Here are some great ways to increase the indoor experience for your feline friend. Other pets: The best enrichment for any social animal is interaction with its own species. Having other pets, and ideally, another kitty can provide social engagement and exercise and will even teach one another how to behave. For instance, kittens learn bite inhibition best from other cats. Dogs and other common household pets can also provide positive enrichment. Daily play: All cats should receive 30-45 minutes of hands-on daily play broken into 10-15-minute sessions throughout the day. This even applies to seniors and cats who “don’t like” toys! Cats naturally enjoy play when engaged properly because it mimics hunting. Ensuring regular playtime is crucial for maintaining a fulfilling cat’s life indoors. I like to start with a wand toy with feathers. Try to mimic prey by soaring the toy through the air like a bird or dragging it along the ground like a mouse or snake. Have it “crawl” up furniture to encourage jumping or race across the room to encourage running. Different cats will prefer different play styles, so pay attention to what your cat enjoys. Independent play: In addition to playing with another cat and their human companions, cats should have interactive toys around the house that they can play with independently. Mine love YEOWWW! brand catnip toys, spring toys, and battery-operated toys. If you’re looking to save money, try catnip stuffed in a paper bag, flattened cardboard shipping boxes for scratching (they love shipping paper, too!), or large bottle caps. Cats can make toys out of so many household items! Scratching posts: Scratching flexes cats’ muscles, provides mental enrichment and is a way for them to mark their territory. Scratching posts and pads are incredibly important to have around the house, even if they’re homemade from cheap items like cardboard boxes. Try to have at least one vertical and one horizontal scratching post in the house so that your cat can choose based on their preferences. You can also try different textures and materials, such as cardboard, sisal rope, and carpet. Heights: It sounds silly that being up high could be enriching for a cat, but they do love it! Allowing your cat to climb up onto a bookshelf and survey their kingdom can keep them amused for quite a while. I recommend looking into the method of “catifying” your home to make it as cat-friendly as possible. After all, cats love climbing trees, even causing some cat owners to call animal control for rescue. Windows: A bird feeder in front of a window will keep your cat entertained forever! Cats also love to bask in the sunshine, sleep on windowsills, and even watch leaves fall from the trees in the autumn months. Access to sunshine throughout the day is a must for a happy cat’s life indoors. Cat-safe plants: Cat-friendly plants can make your home feel greener, which you and your cat will both enjoy. There are also plenty of plants your cats can eat, such as cat grass, catnip, and spider plants. The last two will even provide a high for your cat, making them sure to come back for more! Harness training: Harness and leash training your cat will allow them to explore the outdoors without running away, hunting, or encountering threats. Most cats hate the harness at first but begin to beg for it once they associate it with access to the outdoors. Begin slowly when harness and leash training your cat. Stay indoors and provide plenty of treats and praise as you get your cat into the harness and teach them to walk

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TNR Certification Program

TNR Certification Program Are you considering a TNR certification? On August 7, 2022, I attended the Community Cats Podcast and Neighborhood Cats TNR Certification Program, and here are a few things you’ll learn. First, it was a great presentation and training program! It was 2.5 hours on a Caturday with one scheduled break. It was easy to follow, the pace moved along nicely, and it was loaded with actionable tips and pointers for helping feral and stray cats. I also felt that by the end of the program and TNR training, I was well-equipped to start rescuing cats. Who Should Take A TNR Certification Program? Trap, neuter, return (TNR) certification is for anyone interested in learning about or getting better at rescuing cats, caring for community cats, and colony management. A TNR certification workshop can be beneficial for beginners and experienced trappers. There were a few initial survey questions and an interactive format that helped us understand who else was in the audience. 57% of the participants had never trapped a cat before, while the other half of the participants were active trappers and TNR activists. What Do You Learn In A TNR Certification Program? The program began by defining what Colony Cats are, What TNR is, What the benefits of TNR are, and what the alternatives to TNR are for managing feral cats. Colony cats definition: Colony cats share the same food supply and territory. There are all levels of socialization in entire colonies, but these cats are not traditional pets. What Is TNR? The goal is to TNR the entire colony of cats. In this section, you’ll get an overview and see video footage of actual projects for the following topics. Benefits Of TNR You might need to explain what you’re doing to the neighbors, so it’s important to know about some of the benefits of TNR. Failed Alternatives To TNR We’ve tried a lot of failed alternatives to TNR as a way to manage and care for community cats. Here are a few things that don’t work. How To TNR The TNR certification program went into great detail about how to conduct TNR, from trapping a single cat to catching an entire colony. Workshop attendees received extensive handouts about local and national animal care from the workshop’s executive director. Step 1: Community Relations How To Communicate With The Community How To Deter Cats From Certain Areas Over time, the cats will learn and be trained not to come into the yard. Step 2: Establish A Feeding Pattern Step 3: Make Preparations For Trap Day Step 4: Trapping Feral and Stray Cats Here are some steps and tips the TNR certification program covers. Step 5: Recovery Period The recovery period for post-operation spaying and neutering. Step 6: Return The Cats Release and return the cats back to their outdoor home. Step 7: Monitoring Colony Cats Managing and colony care is crucial in maintaining healthy and happy cats. Here are four affordable wet foods for feeding feral cats: Thanks for considering the Community Cats Podcast and Neighborhood Cats TNR Project and Workshop. We hope you join our ongoing Facebook group with our national programs director and follow other TNR activists to gain access to an incredible network of information and support.

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Best Cat Traps

Best Cat Traps of 2025 If you’ve come across some stray cats or a community cat colony, then you might need a good cat trap. Our team of TNR and cat rescue experts have used all types of traps in a variety of real-life settings. In this review, we’ll outline what you need in a humane trap and what the best cat traps might be for your situation. TNR, or trap, neuter, return, is the process of caring for feral and stray cats by ensuring they are fixed, vaccinated, and evaluated for friendliness. The process of catching feral cats involves using a humane cat trap. TNR programs are usually run by local volunteers and animal advocates, who may be able to let you borrow a cat trap and show you how to set it up. Contact your local cat rescue for details. We reviewed the most popular traps for catching cats and TNR. Here’s a list of the top cat traps: Tru Catch, Tomahawk, Havahart, drop traps, and DIY traps. Two Requirements For Cat Traps There are two things each traditional trap should have. First, the trap should be big enough for the cat you’re trying to catch, which is usually at least 30 inches in length. Keep in mind that the cat will stay in the trap for a few days, so it should be tall and spacious enough for them. Second, it should have a rear door which makes managing a feral cat in a cage much easier. Three Types Of Humane Cat Traps Depending on the situation and your availability of traps, there are three different types of humane traps you can use to catch cats. Spring-loaded traps, gravity traps, or drop traps. In addition, many traps also come in small animal or kitten sizes. Spring Loaded Traps Spring-loaded traps are the original type of trap. A wire is stretched across the opening, and when the cat steps on the trigger, the door slams shut. The downside to these traps is that the spring-loaded door slams fast and loud and can scare the cat and other cats. There is also a risk of injuring smaller cats or kittens as the door slams shut. Spring-loaded cat traps are a bit easier to set than gravity traps and off a bit more all-around versatility. Gravity Traps Gravity traps are newer on the market and use a trigger plate to drop the door. You can tell a gravity trap by the rings that slide the door rather than a spring door that snaps shut. These traps are generally considered to be safer since there is less risk of the door slamming shut too hard. They are also quieter than spring-loaded traps. Gravity traps can be a bit harder to set and not as easy to use for beginner trappers. However, after a few practices, you’ll get the hang of it quickly. The doors also don’t have locks, so extra locks or carabiners are usually needed. Check out our Gravity Cat Trap video here! Drop Traps Drop traps work really well for catching many cats at once or sick, injured, or shy cats. Whereas a box trap must be manually triggered as the cat enters, drop traps are manually operated, and you determine when to spring the trap. Drop traps allow trappers to capture multiple cats at once, making them a highly efficient tool for colony trapping. One downside of the drop trap is that they often require more space to operate, and you must have flat ground otherwise, the cat can escape underneath. You’ll also need to separate the cats with a transfer cage so you can transport them. Tomahawk Live Traps Our favorite Tomahawk cat trap is the Tomahawk GT606. It’s a quiet and reliable gravity trap that fits any size cat. Tomahawk traps are also simple to set and have two locking doors for easy access to your cat. The best cat trap is one of the Neighborhood Cats line of Tomahawk traps. Many experienced trappers will say the Tomahawk trap is the best cat trap, especially for those new to trapping. It’s easy to set and has a large front door opening, making it ideal for catching larger cats. It also has a rear-release door, so you can let the cat out once it’s been spayed or neutered. Tomahawk works closely with advocates at Neighborhood Cats and is constantly working to perfect the trap. This is also known as the Neighborhood Cats gravity trap and is one of the best humane cat traps. Tru Catch Cat Traps The Tru Catch Feral Cat Trap is a favorite among trappers for its durability and ease of use. The trigger plate (or trip plate) is sensitive enough to catch even the smallest kitten yet large enough to hold an adult cat. It also has a built-in safety feature to prevent animals from being caught by the trap door. Tru Catch traps are gravity lock traps and are relatively quiet. Tru Catch traps also have a sliding rear door. The Tru Catch Fat Cat 30FCD is one of the largest feral cat traps on the market. The large size and powder coating make it a very versatile and durable trap. The Tru Catch Fat Cat trap is also large enough for a small litter box which makes it convenient for post-op recovery for a trapped cat. Our favorite Tru Catch cat trap is the 30LTD, which is the most versatile and covers all the bases. However, some trappers say the large size is too bulky for frequent trapping as it takes up a lot of space and might be harder to place. Havahart Live Traps The Havahart (pronounced Have-A-Heart) is a standard animal trap with a spring-loaded door. We recommend the Large 2-Door trap for TNR or cat rescue purposes. The Havahart traps on Amazon are the cheapest of the three top brands. If you only plan to catch a few cats, this would be your least expensive but effective option. Drop Traps Drop traps are often preferred if you

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Best Cat Backpacks

Best Cat Backpacks Cats love the outdoors, but it’s best not to let them outside to roam. A backpack is a great way to bring your cat outside safely. Here are some of the best backpacks and tips to make hiking and traveling with cats more fun. Why cats love cat backpacks Backpacking with your cat can be a fun and bonding experience for both of you. Cats love being in nature and exploring new sights, smells, and sounds. A cat backpack is a great way to add some extra excitement to indoor cat life. Not all cats are comfortable being in a backpack, however, so it’s important to let your cat get used to the backpack before you plan a long adventure. Tips For Backpacking with cats Choose the right backpack. There are a few things to consider when choosing a backpack for your cat. First, you’ll want to make sure that the backpack is big enough for your cat. Second, you’ll want to make sure that the backpack is comfortable and sturdy enough for your cat. Third, you’ll want to make sure that the backpack has enough ventilation so that your cat doesn’t get too hot. Get your cat used to the backpack. Once you’ve chosen the right backpack, you can get your cat comfortable with it by walking them around the house in the backpack. You can also give them treats or toys to help them get used to the backpack. Go for a short hike. Once your cat is comfortable with the backpack, you can take them on a short hike. Start with a short 20-minute or less easy hike, and work your way up to longer and more difficult hikes. Be prepared. When hiking with your cat, you’ll need to be prepared for anything. Make sure their microchip is up-to-date, and put a collar on them just in case they get loose. Have fun! Hiking with your cat can be a great way to bond with your furry friend. Enjoy the outdoors, and make sure to take plenty of pictures. Types of cat backpacks There are many types of backpacks that work for cats. Some models are specifically for backpacking, while others are for general transportation. Backpacking with cats in cold or hot weather When backpacking with your cat in cold weather, make sure to add a blanket for extra insulation. When backpacking with your cat in hot weather, make sure they have plenty of ventilation and keep your hikes shorter. You can also put a heating pad or cooling pack in the backpack if you’re going a long distance. Conclusion Hiking with cats can be a great way to bond with your furry friend. It’s best to be prepared when hiking with your cat by bringing water and supplies. Make sure to choose the right backpack for your cat’s size. Start with short hikes, and work your way up to longer ones. And, most importantly, be safe and have fun! If you’re looking for additional ways to enrich your cat’s life, check out these cat-safe plants!

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How Much Does It Cost To Microchip A Cat?

How Much Does It Cost To Microchip A Cat? Microchips for cats are relatively affordable. The American Animal Hospital Association supports microchipping and scanning for cats. The initial cost of getting your cat chipped is usually around $50, and there is sometimes an annual fee of $15-20 to keep your information on file. The American Veterinary Medical Association has conducted studies showing the benefits of microchipping for reuniting lost cats with their owners. Most chips also offer a free version and don’t require annual fees. Microchips For Cats Microchips for cats are a groundbreaking technology that is quickly becoming a necessity for all cats. Cat microchipping involves implanting a small chip beneath your cat’s skin, which is a safe and simple procedure that provides numerous benefits, including the ability to reunite lost cats with their owners. The microchip is implanted beneath the skin using a syringe and does not require anesthesia. If your cat ever gets lost or needs to be identified, the chip can be scanned, and you can be contacted. Microchips for cats are an excellent way to ensure that your beloved pet always has a way to get back home. In addition, microchips for cats are also helpful in identifying stolen pets and reuniting them with their rightful owner. If you are considering getting a microchip for your cat, there are a few things you should know. Microchipping Cats Is Safe And Painless The chips are inserted beneath the skin, usually between the shoulder blades. The insertion is similar to getting a vaccine, and most cats do not even react to the procedure. Microchips for cats are also permanent, meaning that once your cat is chipped, the chip will remain in place for its entire life. These microchips provide a tamper-proof and permanent identification, helping to reunite lost animals with their owners. Microchips Help Cats Return Home If your cat ever gets lost, microchipping significantly increases the chances of reuniting with your lost cat. It is crucial to register the microchip with a microchip registry and keep the contact information up to date. Any vet clinic can scan a lost or stolen cat for a microchip, so it is important to make sure that your contact information is up to date. Should You Microchip An Indoor Cat? Yes! Getting your cat microchipped will give you peace of mind, knowing that they can always be returned home safely if they ever escape outside. Microchipping indoor cats is beneficial as it ensures they can be identified and returned quickly. It’s also a sign of pet ownership. Do Microchips Have GPS? No, microchips do not have GPS tracking capabilities. Microchips only store your chip’s unique identifier so that you can be reached if your pet is lost or stolen. Microchips operate at different radio frequencies, and it is crucial to use universal scanners that can detect all three microchip frequencies to ensure the microchip can be read regardless of the frequency. However, there are some new gadgets and devices for your pet’s collar that will track their location and movements. What Types Of Microchips And Microchip Registry Are There? There are two types of microchips: passive and active. Microchipped cats are more likely to be reunited with their owners compared to non-microchipped cats. Passive chips only store your contact information and need to be scanned in order for you to be contacted. Active chips also store your contact information, but they also emit a low radio frequency signal that can be picked up by special scanners. Can You Buy A Microchip Scanner? Yes, microchip scanners are available for purchase, but most veterinarians, animal control officers, and animal shelters already have them. If you find a stray cat, you may also be able to borrow one to identify the cat’s owner. It is crucial for an animal shelter to scan for microchips when a cat is brought into their care to quickly contact the cat’s owner and prevent the cat from remaining impounded and at risk in the shelter. Can You Find A Microchip Without A Scanner? No. Microchips are not visible to the naked eye and can only be found using a special scanner. Scanning for a cat’s microchip is crucial to identify the owner and ensure the pet is returned safely. They are small, rice-sized devices that are implanted beneath the skin, usually between the shoulder blades, but can move around. Are Cats Microchipped As Part Of TNR? Yes, community cats that are part of TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) programs are typically microchipped before they are released back into the wild. Microchipping helps reunite community cats with their caregivers, reducing the risk of them being impounded or at risk. Additionally, microchipping helps identify stray cats and increases the chances of reuniting them with their owners. Microchipping ferals or strays helps to identify these cats so that they can be returned to their colony if they are ever recaptured. Conclusion Microchips for cats are important for pet safety and identification. They are safe, painless, and relatively affordable. Microchips provide peace of mind, knowing that your cat can find their way home if they escape. Microchipping can be done at a veterinary clinic, and it is crucial to update the microchip registration to increase the chances of reuniting with a lost pet. Ask your veterinarian about a pet microchip today!

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How To Tell How Old A Cat Is

How To Tell How Old A Cat Is When it comes to how old a cat is, there are a few ways to tell. Kitten age is usually determined by size and weight. For older cats, signs of their age are also shown in their eyes, coat, feeding patterns, and activity levels. First, consider the size and weight of the cat. Kittens are typically small and weigh up to about 4 pounds. Adult cats typically weigh between 10 and 15 pounds. Next, take a look at the cat’s fur. Kittens typically have softer, fluffier fur, while adult cats have thicker, coarser fur. Activity level can also help you determine a cat’s age. Kittens are typically more active and playful than adult cats. Older cats tend to be less active and may sleep more often than younger cats. A kitten’s teeth can also give clues about their age. Kittens have small, needle-like teeth that are replaced by adult teeth as they grow. Adult cats typically have larger and more worn-down teeth. Finally, consider the cat’s eyes. A cat’s eyes will change over time, and younger kittens will have clearer eyes while older cats’ eyes become more cloudy. If you are still unsure how old the cat is, consider consulting your veterinarian. They will be able to give you a more experienced estimate based on the cat’s size, weight, fur, and eyes. How To Tell The Age Of A Kitten Getting a new kitten is an exciting and joyful experience. However, it’s important to know the age of your kitten in order to provide them with the right care and nutrition. Kittens grow at a rapid pace, so knowing their age can also help you anticipate their future needs as they develop into adult cats. Kittens should be nursing the mother cat until they are about 4 weeks old. After that, they can start to eat solid wet food and become more independent from their mother. Here are some key indicators that help determine a kitten’s age: Birth to 2 weeks (newborn kitten): At this age, newborn kittens are sometimes still blind and deaf. They are completely dependent on their mother for food and shelter. It’s important to provide a heating source because kittens at this age don’t maintain body temperature well. Here are some helpful tips if you find a stray kitten. 2 to 4 weeks: Kittens begin to open their eyes and ears around 2 weeks of age. Kittens start walking and moving around their habitat. 4 to 8 weeks: Kittens continue to grow and develop at this age. They have tiny teeth and begin to eat solid food, drink fresh water, use the litter box, play with toys, and engage with other kittens. An orphan kitten may need to be bottle-fed until this stage, when they gain weight. This is a critical period for kitten socialization to get them comfortable with humans and other cats. 8 to 12 weeks: Kittens begin confidently exploring and socializing further and should be fully weaned from their mother’s milk. Kittens’ eyes develop their permanent adult eye color at this age. 12 weeks and older: Kittens are more independent, curious, and playful at this stage. They also begin to lose their baby teeth and grow adult permanent teeth. At three months old, kittens can be separated from their mother for adoption. Cat Ages And Stages 6 months to 2 years: Cats reach sexual maturity at this age. They may start to spray or mark their territory around 1 year old. Cats are considered full-grown at 18 months of age. Between 6 and 9 months old is a good time to spay or neuter your cats. 2 to 7 years: Cats are considered to be an adult cat at this age. 7 years and older: Cats are considered elderly at this age. They may start to experience age-related health problems, such as arthritis or kidney disease. They may also sleep more and eat less. Elderly cats should begin to see more frequent veterinarian checkups to avoid health conditions. How To Tell The Age Of A Stray Or Feral Cat If you find a stray or feral cat, it can be difficult to tell how old it is. Stray and feral cats typically do not have access to regular veterinary care, so their age is often unknown. There are a few things you can look for to try to determine the age of a stray or feral cat. First, consider the size and weight of the cat. Stray and feral adult cats typically weigh between 7 and 12 pounds, but each cat breed is different. Next, take a look at the cat’s fur. Stray and feral cats typically have thicker, coarser fur. If the cat has very soft, fine fur, it’s more likely younger. Lastly, check out the cat’s eyes. If you can get close enough, the clearer the eyes, the younger they might be. Conclusion Knowing how old your cat is can help you provide the necessary care for your pet at different stages of its life. From knowing the right time to spay or neuter your kitten to how frequently your senior cat should see a veterinarian for regular checkups. By knowing how old your cat is and providing regular care, you can help your cat live a long and healthy life!

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