The Rescue Ranger

My journey with TNR began in the canyon behind my house. A few kittens were playing in the dandelions, and I began to name them. Then, one day, they showed up with ear tips. I wasn’t sure what to think, so I began researching. I learned that TNR was about helping community cats, and I began to find ways to help others in my community. I’m a cat advocate, marketer, and fundraising specialist, and I want to help all outdoor cats find safe indoor homes or have safe outdoor communities.

Cats with tails puffed

Why Do Cats Puff Their Tails?

Why Do Cats Puff Their Tails? If you’ve seen your kitties running around acting crazy and all puffed up, then you might be wondering why your cat’s tail puffs up like that. Cats might puff their tails for a few reasons, but it’s usually because they are scared, spooked, or playful. Interactions with other cats or animals can result in a puffed-up tail! Most cats will poof their tails when they’re feeling threatened, startled, or spooked. A cat’s puffy tail is a way of making themselves look bigger and more intimidating if they are feeling scared or aggressive. So why do cats tails puff up when playing, then? Many cats even puff their tails when they’re feeling playful. This is usually accompanied by other playful behaviors, like chasing other cats or batting at toys while in attack mode. Cats use their tails to communicate a variety of things. If your cat puffs their tail and asks for attention, it might be in a cuddly and playful mood. If your cat puffs its tail and it twitches back and forth, it might be a sign that something has startled it. If you’re unsure why your cat is puffing their tail, try paying attention to its body language and behaviors. The cat’s body language can help you determine if the puffy tail is caused by fright or fun. How Does A Cat’s Tail Puff? The cat’s tail is made up of a series of vertebrae, which are connected by muscles and ligaments. When the cat is relaxed, these muscles are loose, and the tail hangs down. When the cat is scared or angry, the muscles contract, making the tail look bigger. This is known as piloerection, and it is a way for fearful cats to make themselves look larger and more intimidating to other animals. There are also other physical indicators of the cause of puffy tails. You’ll likely see the usual physical responses and body language as a frightened cat or playful cat, such as erect ears, whiskers pointed forward, constricted pupils, puffy fur, and a big tail. How Long Does A Cat’s Puffed Tail Last? A cat’s puffed tail usually lasts for a few seconds, although it can sometimes last longer if the kitty is feeling particularly aggressive, scared, or angry. Once the cat has calmed down, the muscles will relax, and the tail will return to its normal position. What Should You Do If Your Cat Puffs Its Tail? If your cat puffs its tail, it is important to try and understand why they are doing it. If you think they may be scared or angry, it is best to leave them alone for a little while until they have calmed down. They might be feeling aggressive, and you could get caught in the middle of a fight. If you think they are being playful, you can try playing with them using a toy or some string. If you are unsure why your cat is frequently puffing its tail, consider consulting a veterinarian or animal behaviorist, as there may be other factors involved. Should I Help De-Puff My Cat’s Tail? There is no need to help de-puff your cat’s tail, as it is a perfectly natural behavior. However, if your cat is playful, de-puffing its tail can be a fun bonding ritual for our feline friends! Conclusion Cats puff their tails for a variety of reasons, including when they are scared, angry, or playful. There’s no need to de-puff your cat’s tail, but it can’t be fun to do so if your cat is calm. It’s important to pay attention to your cat or kittens to find out why their tail is puffed, but it’s perfectly normal behavior.

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Savannah Cat Loaf Dro

Why Do Cats Loaf?

Why Do Cats Loaf? When you catch a glimpse of your cat sitting in a perfectly symmetrical position, with its paws neatly tucked under its body and its tail elegantly wrapped around them, it’s hard not to let out an audible “aww.” This is the cat loaf position, commonly referred to as “loafing,” because it looks like a loaf of freshly baked bread. While it may seem like a common way for cats to sleep, there are several reasons why cats choose to loaf, and understanding your cat’s body language can help you understand them! When a cat is loafing, they are conserving body heat by minimizing its exposed surface area and covering its internal organs. By curling up, cats can retain their body temperature, especially in cooler environments or during cozy nap times. When a cat sits in a loaf, they feel safe, secure, and content in their surroundings. Even a cat curled into a partial loaf is a sign that your feline companion trusts and feels comfortable around you. Loafing is definitely also a sign of relaxation and contentment. After all, cats wouldn’t do something if it wasn’t comfortable, right? So if you see your cat loafing around, there’s a good chance they’re happy and feeling confident. Why is a cat loaf so famous? The phenomenon of cat loafing took off in 2010 across major social media platforms. Countless images and videos of the kitty loaf or a potato cat have gone viral, captivating the attention of millions of cat lovers. It’s hard to resist adorable snapshots and cat loafing videos of potato cats, bread loafs, turkey cats, kitty loafs, and meatloaf. Try featuring a cat loafing in your next adoption profile! Why Is It Called A Loaf? The cat body language term cat loaf comes from the visual resemblance of a loaf of bread. When cats loaf, they tuck their paws neatly under their body and often wrap their tail around themselves, creating a bread loaf shape. After all, cats and bread share some key characteristics: they’re soft, fluffy, and oftentimes round. Or it could be that “cat loaf” is simply a shorter, easier way to say “cat lying down with its paws tucked in.” Whatever the origin of the cat’s behavior, one thing is for sure, “cat loaf” is a better name than turkey cat or meatloaf cat! 6 Reasons Cats Loaf To sum it up, there are several reasons why cats sleep, and cats sit will tuck their paws into cute cat loaf positions. So there you have it! Those are some of the reasons your beautiful hover cat tucks their paws beneath them. Next time you spot your feline friend gracefully loafing, take a moment to bask in its warmth.

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Kitten playing in feathers

How Much Does It Cost To Spay A Cat?

How Much Does It Cost To Spay A Cat? The cost of spaying or neutering a cat typically ranges from $50-$500, depending on where you have the procedure done. The price is often lower if you spay your cat at a shelter or humane society, ranging from $50 to $150, while a traditional veterinarian may charge between $300 and $500. On some occasions, there are a few other costs associated with spaying a cat, such as a vet check-up and blood work, or if complications arise during or after the surgery. Many humane societies or animal shelters offer free services or low-cost programs for community cats and stray cats. While there may be no cost to spay, the community cat programs may also require the cat to get an ear tip to show it’s a fixed outdoor cat. How Does A Spay Or Neuter Work For Cats If you go to a private veterinarian, then you usually do a few tests prior to the surgery. A blood test and physical exam will ensure the cat is healthy enough for the operation. Spaying is the surgical removal of a female animal’s reproductive organs, including the ovaries and uterus. Neutering is the removal of a male animal’s testicles. Spaying and neutering are common surgical procedures that are performed on animals to sterilize them and prevent them from reproducing. Spaying or neutering your cat is almost always recommended. (source) The spay or neuter procedure for cats is typically performed under anesthesia and takes about 30 minutes. The vet will make a small incision in the cat’s abdomen and remove the ovaries and uterus (in female cats) or the testicles (in male cats). The incision is then closed with stitches. Recovery from anesthesia typically takes about an hour. Post-Surgery Recovery For Spay Or Neuter Recovery for cats is typically pretty straightforward. Most cats will return to their normal selves within a day or two. It’s important to watch your cat and ensure they’re not licking or biting at their stitches. Contact your vet’s office if you notice any redness, swelling, or discharge around the incision site. Cones or surgical suits may be used to prevent licking of the incision site. Why You Should Spay And Neuter Your Cats There are many benefits to spaying or neutering a cat, especially for pet owners. When Can You Spay Or Neuter A Cat? Cats can be spayed or neutered as early as eight weeks old or weighing 2 pounds. However, many vets will say to wait until the cat is a few months old, up to a year when they can reach sexual maturity. If you wait too long, they may develop undesirable behaviors, such as urine marking or going into heat. The procedure is typically safe, and recovery is quick, but it’s important the kittens are strong and mature enough for the procedure. Check with a licensed veterinarian to see if they recommend spaying or neutering your cat at a specific age. Why You Might Consider Not Getting Your Cat Spayed Or Neutered There are some situations when you might choose to leave your cats intact, such as: If you are considering not spaying or neutering your cat, please consider all of the reasons why spaying or neutering is important. There are millions of homeless animals in shelters that would love to have a home, and spaying or neutering your cat can help reduce the number of homeless animals, even if you think you may have your cat forever. Why All Cats, Even Indoor Cats, Should Be Spayed Even if you never plan to let your cat outdoors, spaying or neutering is still important. That’s because any unsterilized cat, whether indoor or outdoor, can escape and get lost or end up in a shelter. Once outside, an unspayed cat is more likely to be hit by a car, contract diseases, or get into fights with other cats or animals. Intact indoor cats can also attract attention from intact outdoor feral cats, which might cause nuisance behavior like territory marking. Benefits Of Spaying Female Cats Spaying a female cat prevents unwanted pregnancy and reduces the risk of certain health issues, such as developing mammary cancer, breast cancer, and uterine infections. Spaying also helps reduce roaming, attraction from male cats, and territorial fighting behaviors. Benefits Of Neutering Male Cats Neutering a male cat prevents unwanted pregnancies and reduces the risk of certain health problems, such as developing testicular cancer. Neutering also helps reduce roaming and fighting behaviors. In addition, neutered cats are less likely to mark their territory by urine spraying. How Will My Cat’s Behavior Change After Being Spayed? In general, fixing a cat will not change your cat’s personality. However, it may reduce roaming, howling, marking, and aggressive behaviors. There are generally no negative behavioral changes after removing reproductive organs. How To Get Your Cat Fixed For Free There are many ways to get your cat spayed or neutered for free or at a reduced cost. Check with your local animal shelter, humane society, or spay/neuter mobile clinics to see if they offer low-cost spay/neuter programs. You may also be able to find vouchers that can be used by participating veterinary clinics. While there may be no cost to spay at some of these clinics, community cat programs may also require the cat to get an ear tip to show it’s a fixed outdoor cat. Does Pet Insurance Cover Spay And Neutering Bills? Some pet insurance plans and policies will cover spay and neuter surgery, while others will not. Check with your pet insurance company to see if your policy covers spay/neuter surgery or other related procedures or tests. Conclusion Spaying or neutering your cat can have many benefits for both the cat and the community. It can help reduce aggressive behaviors, as well as the number of homeless animals in shelters. Spaying or neutering is also a quick and easy procedure that is safe for most cats. If you are considering not spaying or

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Cat laying with claws

How To Trim Cat Nails

How To Trim Cat Nails Trimming your cat’s nails can be a daunting task. But it’s important to keep your cat’s nails short, or they could accidentally scratch you, damage furniture, or even develop health issues. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to trim cat nails, including how often to do it, what clippers to use, and how to manage a wiggly cat. Why It’s Important To Trim A Cat’s Nails Your cat’s nails can grow quite long if left untrimmed. Cat owners should regularly trim their cat’s claws to prevent discomfort and potential health issues. Not only can this be uncomfortable for your cat, but it can also lead to health problems or poor scratching or nail-biting habits. Clipping your cat’s nails regularly will help avoid extra sharp and long nails and keep them healthy and happy. How Do You Trim Your Cat’s Nails? First, make sure your cat is calm and relaxed. Try clipping their nails when they are sleeping or lying in their favorite sunny spot. Keeping your cat comfortable during the process is helpful. Wiggly cats might be a bit different. You may need to have someone help you hold your cat while you trim its nails. Next, take a close look at your cat’s nails. You’ll see a pinkish part called the quick. Avoid trimming the quick, as this can be painful for your cat because that is where the blood vessels are. If you accidentally cut the pink part, your cat’s claws might bleed. Be sure to only clip the very tip of the clear nails. Clip the white part of the nail (called the shaft). Gently squeeze the cat’s paw so the cat’s nails pop out, and start by trimming a little bit at a time. Gradually trim more as you get comfortable. You may only get to clip one or two nails at a time, but keep at it over time, and you’ll have the entire paw. Finally, give your cat a treat and let them know they did a good job! Making nail-clipping a fun ritual and a positive experience will make it easier in the long run. How Often Should You Trim Your Cat’s Nails? Most cats should have their nails trimmed every two to four weeks, but it may depend on their habits. Some cats bite their nails or use a scratching post or scratch boxes a lot, and you might not need to clip them at all. But if you notice that your cat’s nails are getting too long, trim them as soon as possible. When my cats are sleeping I try to do short sessions of stress free clipping with one nail at a time. Sometimes I get two or three nails before they become wiggly. Don’t Declaw Your Cat’s Claws! You may have heard that declawing cats is an option. Declawing should not be considered, and we advise against it for several reasons. Declawing is extremely painful for your cat and can lead to joint and muscle problems later in life. Instead of declawing, ensure your cat’s nails are trimmed regularly to prevent any issues. If you’re having trouble, consider taking them to a professional groomer to avoid putting yourself through a stressful experience. What Is The Quick In Cat Nails? The quick is the blood vessel that runs through your cat’s nails. It’s important not to trim the quick, as this can be painful for your cat and lead to bleeding. If you do accidentally cut the quick, don’t worry – use styptic powder or a clean cloth to stop the bleeding. What Clippers Should You Use To Trim Your Cat’s Nails? Use sharp, clean nail clippers designed for cats to ensure a smooth nail-trimming process. Avoid using human nail clippers, as they may not be the right shape and damage your cat’s nails. Using the wrong type of nail trimmers can cause the cat’s nails to splinter, which can cause them discomfort. Human nails are different so human nail trimmers are not ideal and can allow you to accidentally hit the quick or accidentally trim them incorrectly. Nail Clippers Vs. Nail Grinders You may wonder whether to use nail clippers or a nail grinder for your cat’s nail trims. Both have their advantages and disadvantages. Nail clippers are typically easier to use, but they can be more difficult to control. Nail grinders, on the other hand, offer more control but take a bit longer. Ultimately, it’s probably up to your cat which one they prefer. How To Trim Black Cat Nails If you have a black cat, you may be wondering how to trim your cat’s nails without cutting the quick since its entire nail is black. The best way to do this is to use a nail grinder, as it will allow you to go more slowly. You can also trim your black cat’s nails in sunlight or under bright light, as this will make the quick easier to see the dark nails. Cat Scratchers And Preventative Nail Management An important part of trimming your cat’s nails is preventing them from getting too long in the first place. This is especially important for indoor cats, who may be less active and need assistance in keeping their nails worn down. One way to do this is by providing them with a scratching post or cat scratcher. This will help keep their claws short and healthy and give them an outlet for their natural scratching behavior. Conclusion Ultimately, trimming your cat’s nails doesn’t have to be difficult. Just take your time, be gentle, and trim a little bit at a time. If you’re ever unsure, ask your veterinarian for help. There are a few different types of cat nail clippers you can try to find the right fir for your cat’s claws and preferences. Giving your cat a nail trim can become a bonding experience for both you and your kitty, even if you do one

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Cat eating liquid medicine

How To Give A Cat Liquid Medicine

How To Give A Cat Liquid Medicine It can be difficult to give a cat liquid medication, but with a few tips, you can make it easier. We’ll help you prepare the medicine, find the right location, and offer cat control tips to make it go more smoothly. Having two people might make it easier, but we have tips for handling wiggly cats solo as well. Here are the main steps for giving liquid medicine to a cat. First, it’s important to have the right supplies on hand. You’ll need the medicine, of course, but you’ll also need a syringe or dropper. Draw up the correct amount of medicine into the medicine filled syringe or dropper before you capture the cat. Once you have the supplies, you’ll need to prepare the cat. Gather them into your arms and hold them close. You may want to wrap them in a towel to help keep them still or confine them in a small room. Have someone else help you if possible. With the cat prepared, it’s time to give the medicine. Gently place the tip of the syringe or dropper into the side of the cat’s mouth and squeeze the medicine into its mouth. If everything goes well, you can give the cat a treat as a reward. If it didn’t go well, don’t worry. Just clean up any spills and try again once the kitty has calmed down. With a little practice, you’ll be a pro at giving liquid medicine to your cat. Hide It In Wet Cat Food If you’re having trouble getting your cat to take their cat’s medicine, there are a few things you can try. Some medications can be flavored to make them more palatable to cats. You can also mix the medicine into a small amount of wet food or give it with a treat. If you go this route, make sure that the food is something your cat loves and that they will eat it all so they get the full dose of medicine. You may need to experiment to find what works best for your cat. Be sure the cat eats everything and gets its entire dose of medication. How To Give A Cat Liquid Medicine By Yourself If you’re giving liquid medicine to a cat by yourself, it’s important to be prepared. Have everything ready before you capture the cat so the process is quick and easy for the kitty. Be calm and encourage them with positivity to keep their guard down. The main challenge in providing medicine to a cat by yourself is holding a wiggly cat while also administering the medicine. You need to hold the cat’s body and cat’s head still while plunging the medicine accurately into an unhappy kitty’s cat’s mouth. It’s not easy! Hold the cat close to your body to help contain them. Wrap the cat in a towel with only its head exposed to minimize movement. You can also wrap them in a towel or blanket to help keep them still. Gently insert the syringe at the side of the cat’s mouth and administer the medication slowly. Another helpful solution is a cat-bag product, which is more durable and allows the cat to pop its head out. If your cat is difficult, the reality is you will likely get lots of scratches and waste a lot of medicine. It’s important to remember that your cat needs their medicine, and it’s up to you to get it to them, but you are in it together and can take steps to make it a positive and calm interaction. How To Give A Cat Liquid Medicine With Two People Having two people to give a cat liquid medicine can definitely make it easier. One person can hold the cat while the other person gives your cat liquid medicine. The benefit of two people is that one person can hold the cat’s body and head while the other person administers the medicine. This can be very helpful if the cat is wiggly or resistant to taking medicine. You may still need to use a towel or cat bag to contain the cat, and confining them in a small room is also helpful to ensure the cat swallows the medicine. Things That Can Go Wrong When Giving Your Cat Liquid Medicine Conclusion Liquid medicine can be challenging to give to cats, but with a little preparation and patience, you can get the job done. Having two people might help, but you can also give liquid medicine to a cat by yourself. Be prepared, go slowly, and remain calm. It’s important to remember that your cat needs their medicine, and you are in this together. If things go wrong, don’t worry. You’ll get the hang of it with a little practice. And if all else fails, ask your veterinarian for help. Looking for additional tips on administering meds to cats? Check out How To Give A Cat A Pill for more ideas.

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Giving a cat a pill

How To Give A Cat A Pill

How To Give A Cat A Pill There are a few ways to get your cat to take their medication, but the most common way is by administering cat pills. Some cats won’t take a pill and will spit them out or hide from you, making it difficult to give them their meds. Hiding the tablet in a treat is the easiest way to give your cat oral medication. You can also check with your vet to see if you can crush the pill and place the pill in liquid cat treats. It’s not recommended to mix the medicine in with cat food in case your cat doesn’t eat everything. If you have to pill the cat manually, we have some tips for how to pill a cat solo as well as how to pill a cat with two people. We’ll also cover how to make it easier to pill difficult cats. How To Pill A Cat By Hand If your cat is cooperative, pilling them will be much easier. Start by gently petting them and talking to them in a soothing voice. This will help them relax. Next, open their mouth by placing your thumb on one side of their jaw and two fingers on the other. Tilt their head back and drop the pill as far back on their tongue as you can. Make sure to hold the cat’s head firmly and place the pill directly into the cat’s mouth. Close their mouth and massage their throat to help your cat swallow. The first step is to have the cat in a comfortable position. You can hold them in your lap or have them sit on a table in front of you. If they are sitting on a table, make sure they are facing away from you so they can’t see the pill. Next, open their mouth with your thumb and index finger. Gently grasp the cat’s head from above and gently put pressure on the lower lip and front teeth to open the mouth further. You’ll likely have several chances to pill your cat, so you can experiment with the overhead or under-the-jaw methods. Quickly and gently place the pill into their mouth as far back as you can. Ensure the cat’s jaw drops open slightly to make it easier to place the pill. Close their mouth and hold it shut for a few seconds so they don’t spit the pill out. If you are having trouble getting the pill into their mouth, you can try using a pill pusher. This is a small, soft-tipped device that helps push the pill into the back of their mouth. Once the pill is in their mouth, you can give them a treat to distract them and help them swallow the pill. Lastly, make sure they have plenty of water to drink because many medications make cats thirsty. Pilling A Cat Solo Pilling a cat solo can be difficult, so be patient. Try hiding the pill in different types of food or pill pockets. If your cats are too smart and evolve to find the pill, try adding another texture to the food, like a crumbled freeze-dried treat, to make the pill harder to find. If you have to go at it the hard way, try to get the cat into a small enclosed room, like a bathroom. That will give you multiple chances to give them their medicine while they fight you. It’s important to keep calm and not let the cat sense your fear. Sing songs and make it as fun as possible, and remember, you’re in it together. The saying “slow is smooth, and smooth is fast” also applies to pilling cats. Have the pill ready to go, get them on your lap, tilt their head back, and give them the pill. Ensure the cat’s nose points to the ceiling to help open their mouth. Getting them to swallow the pill is part of the challenge, so keep their mouth closed, rub under their neck, and blow lightly on their nose. You can also gently rub the cat’s throat to stimulate swallowing. The towel technique is a good one to try if you’re giving medicine to a wiggly cat. Wrap them in a towel with only their head exposed to make it easier to administer the pill. It may take a few tries to get it right because you have to hold the towel while you open their mouth and drop in a pill. The towel method works better with two people. An alternative to the towel method is a cat bag. If you can get the cat into a cat bag, it will block its claws and allow you to have free hands to work with the cat’s mouth. Be patient, and good luck! Pilling A Cat With Two People If your cat is naturally feral or difficult, pilling them will be more challenging. You may need someone to help you hold them while you give the cat a pill. Start by capturing the cat in a small space like a bathroom. If you can’t confine the cat, try to get them on a table, couch, bed, or on your lap. Try to make it a positive experience by petting them and talking to them in a soothing voice. If that doesn’t appeal to your moody cat, then try to make the process as quick and painless as possible. Next, have the person hold your cat still while you open its mouth. Place your thumb on one side of their jaw and two fingers on the other. Use your ring finger to gently put pressure on the lower lip and front teeth to open the mouth further. The process is the same as pilling with one person, but it’s easier to manage the cat with two people. Tilt their head back and drop the pill as far back on their tongue as you can. Close their mouth and massage their throat to help them swallow

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Cat laying

How To Get Rid Of Cat Pee Smell

How to get rid of cat pee smell Cats make great lifelong companions, and as they go through different life stages, sometimes they pee on things. One of the biggest challenges cat owners have is dealing with occasional issues with cat urine odor. Cat urine has a powerful smell that can get into fabrics and carpets and be difficult to get rid of. If you have a cat that is peeing outside the litterbox, there are a few things you can do to help the cat’s behavior as well as clean the urine and get rid of the cat pee smell. Quick cleaning Sometimes you don’t have time for a deep cleaning, but it’s best to stop a urine stain and get rid of cat pee odor quickly. Here’s how to get rid of cat pee smell quickly. The first step is to clean up the area where the cat has urinated. This includes anything that the urine may have come into contact with, such as carpet, furniture, or nearby walls. Use a clean cloth or paper towel to soak up as much urine as possible. Then, use a pet-safe enzyme cleaner to remove any remaining urine and stains. If your cat pees outside the litter box often, have paper towels and a spray bottle handy with a cleaner like vinegar, hot water, or cold water for quick cleaning. Quickly soak, blot, and rinse the surfaces until you can get back for deep enzyme-based cleaning. It will take about 30 minutes for the carpet to air dry. Deep cleaning If the pet urine smell persists, you may need to do a deep clean. This involves using a steam cleaner or enzyme cleaner to break down the molecules in the urine and get rid of the ammonia smell. It’s important to test any enzyme cleaners in an inconspicuous area before using them on the entire carpet, couch, or other pieces of furniture. Bissel offers a great line of pet cleaning products for your home. Whether you have a new cat or a repeat offender, I highly recommend the Bissel Portable Cleaner, a cleaning device that comes in handy for plenty of other messes. Natural Cleaning Products For Cat Urine Smell There are a number of natural products that can be used to get rid of the smell of cat pee. Two common natural cat pee cleaning products are white vinegar (not apple cider vinegar) and baking soda. To use white vinegar, mix it with water in a 1:1 ratio and spray it on the affected area. Let it soak for a few minutes before blotting it up with a clean cloth or paper towel. Baking soda can be used as a natural urine odor absorber and enzymatic cleaner. Sprinkle baking soda on the affected area and let it sit for a few hours before vacuuming it up. It’s a bit messy, but it does work well. Club soda is also another DIY solution option that helps clean cat urine smell from carpets and couches. Avoid chlorine bleach unless you want to stain your upholstery a bleach color! Cat Pee Prevention The best way to get rid of cat urine smell is to prevent the cat from urinating outside the litter box in the first place. There are a number of things you can do to discourage your cat from urinating around the house, but it’s usually best to address their underlying issue first. It’s a great idea to evaluate the litter boxes and litter situation. Some cats are particular of size, location, and the number of litter boxes, and other cats are picky about the type of litter. Most cat experts say you need to have one litter box per cat, plus 1, and the litter boxes should be spaced throughout the house. It’s important to provide cats with a clean litter box that has clean litter and an inviting space. The litter box should be in a quiet area of the house where the cat feels safe. It should also be big enough for the cat to move around in and deep enough that the litter doesn’t get scattered outside of it. We recommend a 6 inch tall stainless steel litter box. It’s easy to clean, and all our cats like it. Cats hate a dirty litter box and are more likely to find a clean alternative, like a pile of your clean clean clothes. Another option is to get a cat deterrent spray. These sprays contain scents that deter cats from urinating in certain areas. You can use them around the perimeter of the house or in specific areas where you don’t want the cat to urinate. This may help with male cats who tend to mark their territory. If you have a cat that is new to indoor life, you may need to train the cat to pee in the litter box. This takes patience and consistency, but it can be effective. Start by confining the cat to a small area, such as a bathroom, with everything it needs, including a litter box. Then, gradually increase the size of the area over time. If the cat does urinate outside of the litter box, clean up the mess immediately and provide positive reinforcement when the cat uses the litter box. You can also find more natural cat litter, like Oko cat, which resembles outdoor natural cat litter materials. How To Prevent The Cat From Returning To The Same Spot Once you have cleaned the area of cat urine stains, there are a few things you can do to prevent the cat from urinating there again. One option is to use a product that emits a scent that deters cats. These products are available at pet stores and online. Another option is to place double-sided tape or aluminum foil in the area. The smell and texture of these materials will deter most cats from urinating there again. How To Stop A Fixed Cat From Marking There are a few

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cat at the vet

How Often Do You Take A Cat To The Vet?

How Often Do You Take A Cat To The Vet? Most people know that they should take their cat to the vet for check-ups and vaccinations, but many don’t know how often those check-ups need to happen. Depending on your cat’s age, lifestyle, and health condition, you may need to take them in as often as every few months or as seldom as once a year. Here is a general guide to help you determine how often your cat needs to see the vet. Life-Stage Check-Ups From young kittens to a healthy adult cat, each life stage of the cat’s life requires a different frequency of wellness visits to keep your feline friend in top condition. Before we jump in, if you see any unusual symptoms, lethargy, or lack of appetite, don’t hesitate and contact your vet immediately. Pet insurance is a good way to reduce the long-term costs of unexpected visits or preventative care like dental cleaning, which helps prevent dental disease. While pet insurance doesn’t always cover the visit, over time, it can be beneficial and is something we do recommend. Kittens As a kitten, your kitty should have vet check-ups every three to four weeks until they are around six months old. These frequent visits will allow the vet to monitor their health with early detection and make sure they are developing properly, especially if they are rescue kittens. The vet will also give them their first round of vaccinations during these visits. Most kittens will receive their core vaccines at 6 to 8 weeks of age. Adult Cats Once your cat reaches adulthood, they will need routine checkups with the vet once or twice a year for a wellness exam and possibly vaccinations. If your cat is healthy and has no underlying medical conditions, this may be all they need. However, if your cat is overweight, has a chronic illness, or has underlying health issues, they may need to see the vet more often. Senior Cats As your cat gets older, they will likely need to see the vet more frequently for regular checkups. Senior cats typically need to be seen every six months for a physical exam, but this may increase to once every three or four months if they have health problems. Even if your senior cat is in good health, cats can develop serious health issues within a few weeks or months. Dental Care Cats need regular dental care just like humans do. Depending on your cat’s oral health, they may need to see the vet for a professional dental checkup every one to two years. Depending on their oral condition, your feline practitioners may request dental cleanings every few years, even for otherwise healthy adult cats. Seasonal Care In addition to annual checkups, you should also consider a seasonal wellness check up. Cats are susceptible to seasonal illnesses, such as fleas, ticks, and heartworms, even for indoor cats. Your vet can help you develop a flea and tick prevention plan to keep your cat healthy and parasite-free all year round. Spring As the weather starts to warm up, fleas and ticks become more active. Talk to your vet about using a monthly spot-on treatment or oral medication to protect your cat from these parasites. You should also start thinking about heartworm prevention if you live in an area where mosquitoes are common. Kitten Season (Springtime) If you live in an area with a lot of stray cats, you may see an influx of kittens during spring and summer. While it’s tempting to take one home, it’s important to remember that they will need frequent vet care. Kittens need to be seen by a vet every three to four weeks until they are six months old. They will also need to be vaccinated and spayed or neutered after they reach a few months of age. Summer During the summer, you’ll need to be extra vigilant about parasites. In addition to fleas and ticks, mosquitoes can also transmit heartworm to cats. Make sure your cat is up-to-date on their parasite prevention medication, and talk to your vet about any concerns you have. Fall As the weather starts to cool down, you’ll need to start thinking about heartworm prevention again. Mosquitoes are still active in many areas during the fall, so it’s important to keep your cat on a monthly preventative. You should also have your vet check your cat’s teeth and gums to ensure they are healthy and free of tartar buildup. Winter Cats don’t typically need any special care during the winter, but it’s important to keep an eye on their health. If you notice any changes in your cat’s behavior or appearance, make sure to take them to the vet for a physical examination. Regular vet visits will help ensure your cat stays healthy and happy all year round. Also, be sure to take extra precautions for your outdoor cats, such as insulated winter shelters. Signs Your Cat Should See A Vet Even if it’s not time for their regular vet visit, there are some signs that indicate your cat needs to see a vet right away. If your cat is showing any of the following signs, please call your vet or take them in for an appointment: If you are ever unsure whether or not your cat needs to see a vet, it is always better to err on the side of caution and make an appointment. Your vet will be able to tell you if your cat is just having a bad day or if they needs further care or medical attention. Annual Check-Ups For Every Cat Most people know that they should take their cat to the vet for check-ups and vaccinations, but many don’t know why. Cats need regular vet visits to ensure that they are healthy and to catch any potential health problems early on. Some of the things that a vet can check for during a routine visit include: During a vet visit, your cat

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Cat and computer

Best Animal Shelter Software – 2025 Review

Best Animal Shelter Software – 2025 Review If your animal rescue is evaluating shelter, kennel, or volunteer software, we have you covered with our analysis of the top programs your team should consider. In this review, we’ll cover what a top animal shelter software program does, outline the features, and compare pricing to help you find the right management software solution for your shelter. What Types Of Animal Shelter Software Are There? Nonprofits, humane societies, SPCAs, animal control agencies, animal services organizations, and rescue groups use a variety of shelter and animal management software. Organizations may use digital programs to manage volunteers, fundraising, donors, accounting, and animals. In this animal management software review, we’re focusing on animals and volunteers, primarily for cat rescue and cat shelter facilities. For other situations and needs, there may be other animal management software that will work better. The top animal shelter management software programs for cat rescues are:  ShelterLuv Review ShelterLuv is an animal shelter management software that manages animals, people, and programs. It’s sponsored by Maddie’s Fund, Best Friends, and a few local animal welfare organizations. The ShelterLuv shelter software supports physical shelters, foster-based programs, and field and community services. ShelterLuv also offers a donation boost program that helps you maximize donations with every interaction. ShelterLuv charges $2.00 per pet adoption and offers a 14-day free trial of the service. ShelterLuv Features: Homepage Video – Mobile Checkout and Donation Boost How-To Video – Self-Guided Tour + Donation Boost  ShelterLuv is so easy to use, this is the only video you should need. The home base page has four tabs: Animals, People, Partners, and Transactions.  Videos – Take-A-Tour  ShelterLuv Review Conclusion ShelterLuv is a pretty comprehensive animal and people shelter manager. There is a $2 per adoption fee, but they offer a way to accept donations, which should cover the fee and generate additional revenue for your rescue. Overall, this is an intuitive animal management software that is a great choice for most animal shelters and animal rescue groups. Here is our setup guide for ShelterLuv, which covers the initial configurations you’ll do after you sign up. RescueGroups Review RescueGroups is a free rescue management software that any rescue could consider. They offer the ability to display adoptable animals on your website and push them automatically to all your pet adoption sites like Petfinder and Adopt a Pet. You can’t easily do that without software, and this is free, looks easy to use, and is designed to empower animal welfare organizations.  The RescueGroups website is helpful with several videos to help you understand their services. They are a 501c3, which is always nice, and they offer free and low-cost services that are all rescue-focused.  RescueGroups is a 501c3 nonprofit, and they created this service specifically to support other rescue groups and animal control facilities. They currently work with 6,000+ partners. RescueGroups offers a free animal rescue software and low-cost marketing services. RescueGroups Features Video of The Top 4 Services: A nonprofit animal welfare organization working for nonprofits and keeping costs low. Web-based services and cloud-based software allow you to access data anywhere. Main service – Pet Adoption Portal, which is free! For better adoption photos, check out our resources for how to take great photos and videos for your adoptables. RescueGroups Review Conclusion The services are limited in scope to the pet adoption portal and website and marketing support services. This software also seems limited just to animal management and doesn’t offer much for foster or volunteer management. The pet adoption portal is free, so this software would be great for nonprofit startups and new shelter rescue groups. The animal shelter software cost is free with additional paid marketing features. The website is helpful and informative about their services. Their support uses a ticketing system, which looks inconvenient. They have an easy signup feature that will automatically create an account for your rescue. Pawlitics Review Pawlytics is an cloud based animal shelter management software for animals and people. It offers you a centralized animal database, and management of your animal and organization’s records, and it provides forms and applications to make intake and adoptions easier. Pawltics charges $1 per adoption and offers a free 14-day trial. The website has a live chat feature, but I don’t see a dedicated support page so it’s likely a virtual it department.  Pawlytics is a startup with a fun entrepreneurial story and punny brand personality. Pawlytics Features There are also several other services and features listed as Coming Soon.  Pawlytics has a Blog with monthly posts that also feature their recent press.  The pricing page has a video featuring the Founder and CEO Lizz Whitacre. They strive to be an extension of your team! Pawlytics Review Conclusion Pawlytics is a newer cloud-based software that seems to do a good job of the basics for managing animal records, health records, and medical history. They have new features coming soon, like the ability to create custom forms and digital application forms, which will likely make this a more robust shelter management software for advanced shelters. If you are looking for an alternative to ShelterLuv, Pawlytics would be a great choice. Doobert Review It was a bit difficult to figure out what they offer since they do a few things. I spent quite a bit of time on their website, and Doobert is software designed specifically for transportation coordination, foster communication, and volunteers for smaller rescue groups. It also allows you to develop a network or coalition of supporters or other rescues.  The Doobert Fact Sheet was the best summary of the services I found. There are two ways to sign up for Doobert; you can make a Volunteer account or an Organization account. Doobert has over 5,300 registered organizations and 35,000+ volunteers. They also work with animal care organizations like Dallas Pets Alive! and Spay Neuter Network. Doobert Features Doobert’s program features three main areas. The Doobert Community (Volunteers), the Store, and their shelter software. I found this video, How Doobert

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Two cats play fighting

How To Introduce Two Cats

How to introduce two cats Getting a new cat can be very exciting but also stressful. Cats often don’t take well to change, and introductions between pets can be difficult and time-consuming. Introducing a new cat to a home with existing cats presents unique challenges due to their territorial nature, making a carefully planned introduction process essential. However, there are ways to make it successful. The key to cat introductions is to take things slowly and phase them into their interactions over time. Begin by introducing them to each other’s scent. Feed them on opposite ends of a closed door. Then, let them see one another without interacting. Finally, allow them to interact while supervised. Provide them with something to occupy them during the introduction, like a meal or play. In this article, we’ll answer all your questions about cat introductions, from how to introduce two cats to what to do if they won’t get along. How Long Does It Take To Introduce Two Cats? Introducing two cats properly can take weeks to months. It depends on the cats, their personalities, and their histories. It also depends on how you introduce them. For instance, two well-socialized kittens may get along during their first meeting and become best friends very quickly. They may even become bonded relatively easily. Two older cats who’ve had bad experiences, such as a house cat who’s been bullied by other cats and a former feral who got in a lot of fights, may take months to years to warm up to one another. They might never be friends, but they will learn to tolerate one another and live in harmony. Introducing an adult cat to a resident cat can be particularly challenging. It is crucial to recognize if the cats will happily accept one another to ensure their physical health and mental well-being. Cats who have had bad experiences with one another often take much longer to regain that trust—which is why it’s so important to take introductions slowly so that you avoid this result! When it comes to gender, two male cats may take longer to introduce than a male and a female or two females. However, it shouldn’t make a huge difference when done right. One thing we do advise is not to introduce two unneutered male cats in a home with a female cat. Even if she is spayed, the boys are likely to fight over her, which can ruin their relationship. Neutering your male cats will reduce behavioral problems, including fighting, and also give them a longer, healthier life (source). If you’re struggling to afford the surgery, look into low-cost spay and neuter programs in your area. These are often much cheaper than going to a traditional veterinarian. Steps To Introduce Two Cats Introducing cats should be done in parts for the best results. These are: It is also crucial to provide each cat with their own space and resources to ensure a harmonious living situation. Quarantine In The New Cat’s Room Whenever you bring a new pet into your home, you want to keep them separate from your other pets. Ideally, this is done in a designated space known as the new cat’s room, which is easy to clean and sanitize if necessary, such as a bathroom. Have one room for the new cat, which can also become the cat’s territory. Make an appointment with your veterinarian and watch your new kitty for signs of illness. Your veterinarian can advise you during your check-up, depending on your area and the cat’s history. Generally, you’ll want them to check for the following: Blood tests for any contagious ailments are especially important, as these can be deadly to your old cat if caught. If you adopted your new cat from a rescue or shelter, you can ask for any veterinary records they have. It’s up to you whether you want to recheck with your own vet or trust theirs. Once your new cat receives a clean bill of health, you can begin introducing them to other rooms in the house if you can. This isn’t always possible in small spaces, but it is ideal. However, it’s not yet time to put your cats together or let the new cat free roam! You can, however, confidently start scent swapping without passing on parasites or illness to your existing cat. (If your new kitty is ill or especially if they had fleas, be sure to wash all of their belongings thoroughly before you begin!) Scent Swapping Scent swapping begins by giving your cats each a space in your home, such as a spare bedroom. Your existing cat should be able to free roam while your new cat lives in a bedroom, extra room, or other enclosed space with the door shut. To create feelings of familiarity and security, use synthetic feline facial pheromone Feliway Classic in both the new cat’s room and in the area where the resident cat spends the most time. Next, give them items that hold scent. Cat beds, blankets, towels, plush toys, or scratching posts. Anything that your cat can interact with or lay on and add their scent to. Provide these items for both cats. After they’ve had a few days to a week to lie on the items, rub their face and tail against them, and get them nice and smelly, swap them! These items likely won’t smell much at all to you, but if you give your new cat something that belongs to your old cat, they’re sure to spend time sniffing it. During this time, you’ll also want to swap spaces. Move your new cat to another closed room before putting your old cat in the new cat’s space. Then, free the new cat so they can explore your home without interruption. Cats communicate heavily through scent. When they sniff where the other has been, your cats are already getting to know each other before they even meet! A great tip is to get a screen

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