CUSTOM CAT CARE FROM SLEEP-EAS-ZZ…

As a cat parent chances are that you spend a fair amount of time interacting with and taking care of your pet. You notice when their habits change. Consequently, when they seem out of sorts, you try to figure out what is going on. And while they can’t verbally speak to you, your cat does have ways of communication.

While depression is commonly associated with humans, cats can also be depressed. And, they have a variety of ways the express it.

How Do You Know if Your Cat is Depressed?

• Become more aggressive or fearful -If your usually friendly and outgoing cat starts becoming skittish and hissing at everyone or everything they encounter, it could be that they need some extra TLC. Other signals may be ears held back, tail tucked, and hair standing on end. They may also manifest sadness by becoming clingy and losing interest in activities.
• Breaking housetraining rules – Has your litterbox-trained cat started peeing in the wrong places? This might be a sign of depression. For cats, the smell of their urine brings comfort, so peeing beyond the litterbox is a way of marking safe zones.
• Sleep changes- Just as with humans who are depressed, a depressed cat may sleep even more than usual. Keep in mind most cats sleep between 12-16 hours a day. If your cat is sleeping more than normal or perhaps sleeping in a different place-especially one that is tucked away from everything- it could be that something is bothering them.
• No appetite – A change in their eating habits such as no longer eating food they usually like, not eating at all, or even eating more than usual can also indicate depression. Consider trying a new food item to see if it gets a reaction of any kind. But if the problem persists a talk with your vet is recommended.
• Vocalization- No your cat can’t doesn’t talk, but they do purr. A cat who is depressed may purr more often than normal, or conversely, purr less if they are usually vocal. Or, instead of purring loudly it may become softer, and vice versa.
• Grooming- Cats are well-known for their grooming habits. However, a sign of depression is when your cat either becomes excessive about their grooming or simply seems to quit grooming. Over-grooming can lead to bald patches in their fur, while under-grooming will result in matted unkempt fur.

What Can You Do if Your Cat Appears Depressed?

If you have noticed any of these symptoms, there are several actions you can take.

1. Determine any recent changes. Did You get a new pet? Have you moved to a new home? Maybe someone has left home (i.e., a child going off to college). Have your work hours changed? Any of these changes can affect a cat’s demeanor. Try not to change too many things at once, so the differences are more subtle.
2. Encourage engagement. Try different play activities, pick up a new toy, and be intentional about playing with your cat. Studies show that cats who get more engagement are less likely to be depressed.
3. Natural remedies – implement natural solutions like l-theanine and l-tryptophan which contain serotonin. Known as a ‘feel-good” supplement, it can help your cat feel happy.
4. Schedule a vet appointment. Be sure that are no underlying issues such as sickness or injury. Your vet can do a thorough examination to be certain your cat Is healthy. If a clean bill of health is the result, they can prescribe medication for depression.

Knowing your cat and how they respond to situations is part of being a cat parent. If there’s a change, it is up to you to take steps to improve the situation. Pay attention, and if you suspect your cat is depressed do your part to help them become a happy furbaby.

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“What’s in a name? That which we call a rose, by any other word would smell as sweet.” ~Shakespeare

You are the proud parent of a new fur baby. And, like any new baby, this little bundle of energy needs a fitting name. Sure, you can call your new kitten blacky, or fluffy, or Spot (Star Trek, anyone?) but like naming a human baby, you want to give your new addition something unique. It must be a name that fits their personality. But how do you decide on a name that is purr-fect?

How to Choose Your Kitten’s Name

While there are no exact rules you must follow in selecting your kitten’s name, there are some factors that can make it easier.

• Personality – Is your kitten playful? Perhaps they like morning better than evenings. Do they seem content to sit on a perch and observe? How much do they sleep? Any of these factors can help you determine a name.
• Looks – No, you can’t judge a cat by its fur, but its coloring or amount of hair can lend itself to the naming. For instance, a cat with a significant amount of fur could easily be name Fluffy, while an orange cat might be dubbed O.J. (for orange juice).
• Age – Your cat won’t always be a kitten, so you might opt for a name your kitten can grow into. After all, you will be calling for your cat for a long time!
• Keep it simple – Pets do better with short names, i.e. Those with no more than 2 syllables. This is because long names with several syllables or names that are difficult to pronounce can cause your cat to become confused and never really learn its name.
• Household names – Don’t choose a cat name that rhymes or sounds like other pet or human names in the household. You want your cat to know they are being called.
• Look to literature or movies – Books, movies, podcasts, comic books, TV shows, etc. are great resources for pet names. Pick a character whose personality or appearance reminds you of your cat and there you have- your cat’s name!
• Names that represent a hobby – Look to cook? Perhaps name your white kitten Flour or Sugar. Do a lot of gardening? Then Daisy, Rosey, or Dahlia. Love to go hiking? Then maybe Boots.
• Be sensible – Naming your cat with a play on words or its appearance is fine but remember that you will be calling your cat by said name in public- be it at the airport, the vet, or your favorite pet supply store. Think about how those around you will receive the name.

If you still need inspiration for your kitten’s name, go online. There are numerous sites with popular pet names. Or you may even want to consult a baby name’s book- after all, there’s no rule that says you can’t give a cat a people name!

So, what will you name your cat? Have a unique pet name? We would love to hear about it. After all, as longtime pet lovers and animal sitters, we have certainly heard our share of pet names!

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While the fall season is often a favorite time of year for people, it is not without its challenges for our pets. Sure, there are some great photo-worthy moments, and the cooler temperatures make it more pleasurable to take our pet outside for playtime or a walk, there are quite a few elements that can make the outdoors less than friendly for your feline friend(s).

Fall Pet Hazards to be Aware of

Antifreeze

While most pet owners are aware that antifreeze is dangerous to animals, this doesn’t mean that everyone is or that they are as careful as one would like Pay attention to what your cat is doing when outside. If you think there might be a coolant spill or leak, then keep your cat away from it.

Candy

Halloween costumes might be fun to see on your pet but this doesn’t mean that they need the candy! While most people know that chocolate is bad for pets, there are other concerns. Lollipop sticks and candy wrappers, if swallowed are especially dangerous. Also, the artificial sweetener, xylitol, that is used in many candies can cause liver damage (especially for dogs!) – so keep these items out of reach of your pets.

Costumes

While it might be cute to dress your pet up in a clown suit, be sure the clothing you put your pet in is animal safe, doesn’t contain any dyes or chemicals that can be harmful, and that the costume fits comfortably without choking.

Hiding Places 

When temperatures start to drop. Outside pets will look for warm places to sleep, and these are not always the best spots. Before starting your vehicle in the morning, take a minute to check the tire wells and the engine block.

Mushrooms

Did you know that only 1% of mushrooms are actually toxic? However, telling safe from unsafe can be difficult. It is better to err on the side of caution and keep your pets away from any mushrooms. Going beyond mushrooms, certain fall plants can be harmful to your pet. Before planting something new, do some homework to find out if it is safe for your furry friends.

Poisons

Beyond antifreeze, you should keep in mind that fall weather means people setting out poison for rodents and other pests.  If ingested by your fur baby, it can be fatal.

School supplies

If you have children who are using school supplies such as glue or markers, be sure these items are put away and kept out of reach for your pets. Although toxicity is low, the chemicals used in these items can cause gastrointestinal upset and blockages.

Candles and Décor

The soft glow of your candles might be soothing to you, but they can be intriguing to your pet. When using traditional candles be sure it is set up high enough not to be knocked down or swatted by your pet. Also, when setting out garlands, using electrical cords, or ribbons, be sure they are done to keep your cat from getting caught or choked by them.

Keep your furbaby safe this fall. Be aware of the activities, decorations, foods, and fluids around your home, yard, and neighborhood so you can keep your furry friend happy and healthy. And, should you need someone to help watch your furry friend(s), be sure to reach out to us. We would love to help you match with a pet sitter perfect for your situation.

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