By: Michele Patanio, Animal Paws Pet Sitting LLC
908-963-0311 animalpaws.net
CRAZY FOR CATNIP
The fragrant herb from the mint family. The plants buds contain an essential oil called nepetalactgone that evokes such feline antics as chin and cheek rubbing, rolling and kicking, and even leaping into the air. I would get organic it’s the most potent.
Read more pet-related articles here: https://theconnectionsnj.com/category/all-about-pets/
EMBRACE THE POWER OF PETTING
Scientists report that people who pet their cats experience an increase in theta waves, a brain wave pattern that shows a reduction in feelings of anxiety. Petting your furry friend for just a few minutes releases a healthy amount of positive biochemicals, those “feelgood” hormones. Research shows that good feeling works both ways. Meaning you and your furry friend both enjoy and benefit from petting.
A CAT’S TAIL
When it is held upright while the cat is walking, it signals confidence. A tail that flicks toward you means: “Hello my friend.” Whipping the tail from side to side or thumping it on the floor means agitation. A lightly twitching tail conveys relaxed alertness. A puffed-up tail indicates total fright.
HEAD TO TAIL EXAM
Devote a hands-on petting session weekly to examine your cat’s entire body, looking for lumps, bumps, sore spots, or changes in fur and skin. Do not forget to check eyes, ears, and mouth. Your observations may help to catch a medical problem in its early stages. And your furry one will love the attention.
TREAT YOUR CAT AS MR. OR MRS. WONDERFUL
Your cat needs to be pampered. One easy way is to warm a small blanket in the clothes dryer for 5 to 10 minutes, then drape it on your furry one during chilly nights to help him or her sleep. You can also do this for cats that have arthritic issues too. It will help to increase blood flow and ease muscle aches. Remember not too hot.
LITTER BOX SUCCESS
Clean out deposits every day and wash the litter box once a month with warm soapy water, letting it dry completely before putting in fresh litter. Do not use any strong chemicals to wash out litter box. Fill in depth of three inches. Never place food or water bowls by litter boxes. Cats do not like to eat near bathroom areas.
WARM & COZY
Position your cat’s bed near a source of warmth – near a sunny window or by the fireplace or next to a heat vent. Grab your comforter and a good book and spend some time with your snoozing friend while you pamper yourself and enjoy quiet time as well. It’s good for the soul!
SAME FOOD EVERY DAY
Add a splash of tuna juice or salt free chicken broth to the bowl of dry food. After dinner your furry friend may spend more time grooming because of the lingering delightful aromas from those GREAT toppings.
HEALTHY TREAT
A tablespoon of plain low-fat yogurt once a day provides calcium, a dose of good bacteria, and some extra liquid (yogurt is mostly water). Enjoy your furry friends – they are special and remember any questions always check with your regular veterinarian.
Enjoy Fall!