So, you already have one cat, but have decided that your fur-buddy needs a playmate. After all, having another cat can’t be that much different than just one- right? And, better yet, having a second cat means they can play together and entertain each other- not to mention provide you entertainment and pleasure, too!

But how do you select a second cat? Will all cats get along simply because they are cats? Will the age of the cats make a difference? If you are entertaining these questions then you are on the right track towards multiple pet ownership.

Considerations for Becoming a Multi-Cat Household

When it comes to becoming a multi-cat household there are a few things you need to keep in mind to help make the change as smooth as possible. For instance:

• If your ‘single’ cat has never socialized with other cats then adding a new cat to the house may cause more problems than good. Quite often, cats are hostile to other unrelated cats. If your has been around other felines and seems accepting of them, then adding a second cat can be more successful.
• While there is no completely conclusive evidence, it is recommended that if you have an older cat already, it is better for all involved if the new cat is younger as the older cat is more likely to take on a parental role with newbie.
• If you do decide to take on an older cat as a companion for your existing older cat then it is better to take on one of the opposite gender. However, studies/experience has found that two older males will get along better than two older females.

Another consideration- if you do not currently have a cat, but have decided that now is the time to add a couple of kittens to your home then endeavor to get cats from the same litter. Typically, cats are very family-oriented creatures and as such, are happier when paired with each other rather than introducing ‘someone’ new. However, if it is not possible to adopt littermates, then try to get two young kittens close in age, as the earlier they are introduced the better the transition.

It should also be noted that certain breeds of cats are more compatible with others thus making it easier to become a multi-cat household. These cat breeds are-

• Birmans
• Persians
• Ragdolls
• British Shorthairs
• Ragamuffins
• Main Coons
• Norwegian Forest Cats
• Siberians
• Abyssinians
• Scottish Folds
• Devon Rexes
• Manx Cats
• Sphynx

There are also cat breeds that are not as compatible and eager to have a new cat added to the household. This list includes the following:

• Siamese
• Bengals
• Orientals

Becoming a multi-cat household is a big decision, but can have definite benefits for you and your furbaby(ies). If you are considering adding another cat to your household, we would love to share our experiences of being a multi-cat home, as well as pet sitters for multi-pet families. Also, if you have any comments or experiences to share, we would to hear those as well.

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For many people, having a pet is an important part of life. However, many people who would love to adopt a fur baby but due to their allergies just the thought of having a pet -especially an indoor one- is enough to evoke a series of sneezes and watering eyes.

Of course, there are other pet owners who have allergies but have found ways to live with their pets and without dealing with itchy eyes and frequent sneezing. So, what are their allergy proofing tricks for living with pets? Here are some tips that have proven effective for many allergy-ridden pet lovers.

Tips for Allergy Proofing

• Clean often – Ideally using all-natural products as much as possible After all, you want to protect yourself but don’t want your pets to lick up or breathe in any harsh or harmful cleaners!
• Wipe off- Take time to wipe down all surfaces with a damp cloth weekly. Just a simple microfiber cloth will do the trick.
• De-clutter – Having a lot of stuff- boxes, stacks of books, shelving, etc. are all great places for pet dander to accumulate. Minimizing the number of surfaces means fewer places for dander to pile up.
• No hiding- Get rid of under the bed storage containers. These collect dust and allergens only making it more difficult for you to breathe.
• Fabrics- items such as area rugs, carpets, upholstery and heavy drapes are the perfect materials for holding on to allergens of every type. This doesn’t mean you can’t have soft items and fabrics, it just means you want to choose with care and not have an abundance of them!
• Plants- Invest in some house plants. They will serve as great air filters, plus they look good in nearly any space.
• Flooring – Consider hardwoods rather than carpet as they are more easily cleaned and accumulate fewer allergens.
• Ventilation – This is especially important in areas such as bathrooms and laundry rooms; however, having adequate ventilation throughout your how will help keep the air cleaner and reduce allergy issues.
• Purifiers – These are wonderful weather you have a pet allergy or not! Consider investing in in-room purifiers for any space where you will have your pets.
• Filters – If you are able, change out the air filters of your home’s HVAC system at least once a month to prevent them from being collecting and releasing pet dander into your home.
• Air it out! – When it is possible, open the windows of your home and let in some fresh air. Of course, this is only effective if you aren’t allergic to pollen!
• Bathe – Take time to wash your pet weekly to reduce the amount of allergy-causing dander they shed.

These allergy proofing tips have proven to be effective for many animal lovers. No, they might not make your allergies disappear, but they can help you enjoy your pets without a constant routine of sneezing, scratchy throat and itchy eyes. So, if you love the fur babies but have found ways to make having your furry friends around you, we would love to hear what tips you have for minimizing pet-related allergies.

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It’s always nice to have extra time to spend with your pets. After all, most of us are so busy that we have to make time for our pets -and ourselves- to simply relax and enjoy the moment. However, there are times when life slows down a bit and we can take time to sit back and enjoy hanging out with our pets.

But now that you have the time to just hang out with your pet(s) what are some things you should do? After all, one can only walk to so much each day! Here are some ways to ensure that your downtime with your pets is time well spent – for both you and your family’s fur babies.

7 Ways to Keep Your Pet(s) Happy and Healthy

• Depending on where you live, there may be more wildlife moving around. Be sure to keep your dog on a leash when walking in parks as you don’t want them to ‘stumble’ upon a skunk or porcupine. Have a cat that doesn’t respond well to a leash? Consider getting a stroller that can be zipped shut but still has a mesh or screened opening.
• Pay attention to debris. You don’t want your pets sniffing around something that could be harmful. After all, germs are everywhere!
• Lyme disease is real and can be a serious problem for your pets (and you!). Be sure they have the proper collars on. Then take time to inspect their coats for those pesky parasites when you return home.
• Just because you have more time to cook, it doesn’t mean now is a good time to introduce people-food or even a significant amount of new pet foods into their diets. Giving your dogs or cats food they are not accustomed to can cause stomach/digestion issues. Big food no-no’s are grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and chocolate.
• Be sure your pet is up to date on their vaccinations! Not sure? Contact your vet. Being sure your pet is up to date on their shots can, in turn, help protect you as well.
• If you plan on planting a garden or introducing houseplants to your space, be sure to only have ones that are pet-friendly and safe. There are several plants that can cause illnesses in pets.
• Take time to go the extra mile – activities like brushing their hair, extra-time spent playing with them, or just cuddling is healthy for you and your pet. So why not indulge yourself – and them!

Keeping your family’s four-legged members happy and healthy doesn’t have to be difficult. It is just a matter of thinking and planning ahead and then being sure to have the supplies available. Talk to your veterinarian, an experienced pet sitter, or even just someone who has had pets for a long time, and learn all you can about how to make your time with Fluffy and Fido as wonderful as it can be!

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