Representatives Propose Law to Ban Sale of Pets in Connecticut

Budget-Friendly DIY Rabbit Enrichment Ideas for Every Bunny Parent

As a dedicated rabbit parent, your commitment to providing the very best for your furry companion is undeniable. You want them to thrive, not just survive. That is where the world of mental enrichment comes in. But why is it that when you walk the aisles of your local pet store, all the enrichment toys and products seem to be made for dogs and cats? The good news is that providing excellent enrichment doesn’t require special toys or a hefty budget. In fact, many of the most engaging toys and activities for your bunny can be created using items you have lying around your home. In this post, I’ll explain why enrichment is so important for your rabbit’s overall well-being and share a list of fun, budget-friendly ideas that will have your bunny hopping with joy in no time! When Enrichment Matters for Your BunnyWe often see trends or buzzwords pop up in the pet space, trying to convince us that something is important or necessary for our furry family members. But enrichment is more than that… It is truly a game-changer for your rabbit’s health and happiness. Here’s why: Mimicking Natural Behaviors In the wild, rabbits are high-energy creatures and are constantly on the move. They spend much of their time foraging for food, exploring their surroundings, digging intricate networks of burrows, and interacting with their environment. These aren’t just random activities; they are deeply ingrained instincts. Domestication, while providing these sweet pets with a safe and comfortable home, often limits these outlets. Confined to enclosures, even spacious ones, our pet rabbits can miss out on the mental and physical stimulation they would enjoy from these natural behaviors. By recognizing this, we can find ways to replicate these opportunities and provide safe outlets to fulfill these instinctual needs within the safety of their own home (your home). Combating Boredom and Stress Like us, our rabbits can experience boredom when they aren’t given sufficient stimulation. This lack of mental engagement can lead to a variety of negative behaviors and signs of stress. Signs of bunny boredom include: Excessive grooming, sometimes to the point of creating bald patches Lethargy Lack of interest in their surroundings Sitting hunched in a ball Persistent chewing on cage bars or inappropriate household itemsDigging in their enclosure or beddingRepetitive, seemingly aimless pacing or restlessness Out-of-character escape attempts Making a grunting noise Aggressive behaviors, including nipping or biting Enrichment provides crucial mental stimulation, offering them entertainment, puzzles to solve, new scents and textures to explore, and challenges to overcome. This reduces their boredom and promotes a calmer, more content mindset. Promoting Better Physical Health We often discuss the mental health implications of enrichment, but it also plays a vital role in promoting physical health. Encouraging movement and activity helps prevent the development of obesity, a common and growing serious health concern in domestic rabbits (and, quite honestly, nearly all pets in the US). Regular activity can be encouraged by providing enrichment opportunities, like exploring tunnels, hopping over obstacles, and reaching for hanging treats, all of which help keep their muscles strong and their cardiovascular system healthy. Some enrichment items contribute to your rabbit’s dental. A rabbit’s teeth continuously grow. In the wild, they wear down their teeth by chewing on grasses, hay, and other abrasive surfaces, but not all food provided to domesticated rabbits will fill this need. You can provide your bunny with safe and appropriate items to chew on, such as untreated wood or cardboard, to meet this need and prevent painful dental issues. Strengthening the Human-Animal Bond Engaging in enrichment activities with your rabbit is a great way to spend quality time together and strengthen that all-too-special human-animal bond. When you take the time to create a new puzzle toy, design a foraging box, or simply observe and interact with your rabbit as they explore their enrichment environment, you’re building trust and deepening your connection. Watching their curiosity and problem-solving skills in action is not only rewarding for you but also creates positive associations with your presence. These shared moments of play and discovery are a great way to boost your relationship and build the long-lasting bond we all want to enjoy with our furry family members. DIY Enrichment Ideas: Foraging Fun Foraging is a deeply ingrained natural behavior for rabbits, extending beyond simply searching for their food. In the wild, rabbits will spend much of their day searching for, selecting, and acquiring their meals. This process is highly stimulating, engaging many senses, including smell, sight, and touch. It also helps to keep their minds actively engaged. By providing opportunities for foraging in their home environment, we can tap into these instincts and give our bunnies crucial mental enrichment. Here are a few ways to create foraging opportunities at home: Treat Balls/RollersTurn simple cardboard tubes, such as those from toilet paper or paper towels, into engaging treat dispensers. Cut a few small holes in the tube and place hay or small, healthy treats inside. When given to your bunny, they will need to nudge, roll, and manipulate the tube to release the tasty rewards. Of course, you should always prioritize safety. If you are using glue, do so sparingly, or simply fold the ends of the tubes to securely keep the goodies contained. Hay Boxes/Digging Boxes Repurpose larger cardboard boxes to create stimulating digging and burrowing opportunities. Fill these boxes with rabbit-friendly textures like loose hay, shredded plain paper, or safe, untreated soil. This provides both physical activity and a chance to tap into their natural sense of curiosity and exploration. Different textures also offer a more satisfying tactile experience. Cardboard Castles/Tunnels Encourage exploration and discovery by creating simple structures from larger cardboard boxes. By cutting openings and connecting boxes, you can build tunnels, hiding spots, and multi-room “castles” that offer a change of scenery and opportunities for your rabbit to hop through, hide, and feel secure. Is your rabbit hesitant to explore their new fort? Consider using small treats to create a trail guiding them through the space. Once they have checked out and seen every corner, they will be far more likely to embrace their new castle.

Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies in Cats

With the arrival of spring and blooming trees, seasonal allergies make their return - and believe it or not, cats can have them too! Just like humans, our feline friends can suffer from allergies triggered by pollen, dust mites, and mold. While cat allergies aren’t as commonly recognized as those in dogs or people, they can still cause significant discomfort. Understanding the symptoms can help you take the right steps to keep your cat happy and healthy. Here’s what to look out for!Common Signs of Seasonal Allergies in Cats1. Persistent Scratching and Over-GroomingOne of the first signs of allergies in cats is constant itching. If your cat is scratching, licking, or biting their skin - especially around the face, ears, paws, or belly- it could be due to allergens in their environment. Excessive grooming can lead to hair loss, bald patches, and even skin infections.2. Skin Irritation and InflammationAllergic reactions often cause redness, swelling, or rashes on a cat’s skin. Some cats may develop scabs, sores, or flaky patches due to repeated scratching. If left untreated, these irritated areas can become infected, requiring veterinary care.3. Watery Eyes and Runny NoseSimilar to hay fever in humans, seasonal allergies can make a cat’s eyes watery and irritated. Their eyes may appear red or swollen, sometimes with a clear or slightly cloudy discharge. Some cats also develop a runny nose, sneezing, or mild congestion, which can easily be mistaken for a respiratory infection.4. Sneezing, Coughing, and WheezingAllergens like pollen and mold can trigger sneezing fits, coughing, and even mild breathing difficulties. If your cat is sneezing more than usual, especially during allergy season, it could be a reaction to environmental allergens. Cats with asthma or other respiratory conditions may experience worsened symptoms, such as wheezing or labored breathing.5. Ear InfectionsInflammation from allergies can lead to excessive wax buildup in a cat’s ears, increasing the risk of ear infections. If your cat is shaking their head frequently, scratching at their ears, or if you notice an unusual odor, it’s a sign that their ears may need medical attention.6. Paw IrritationAllergens can affect a cat’s paws, causing itching and discomfort. Excessive paw licking or chewing, redness, or swelling can indicate an allergic reaction. In more severe cases, open sores or infections may develop.When to See a VeterinarianMild seasonal allergies can often be managed at home, but if symptoms become severe or persistent, a vet visit is essential. Excessive scratching, hair loss, open wounds, breathing difficulties, or recurrent ear infections may require medical treatment. Your veterinarian can perform allergy tests to identify specific triggers and recommend treatments such as antihistamines, medicated creams, or dietary adjustments.How to Reduce Allergic Reactions at HomeThere are several ways to help minimize allergens in your home and keep your cat comfortable:

5 of the Rarest Cat Breeds

There are many cat breeds that you can choose from, and some are much more common and easy to find than others, including in shelters and rescues. Rarer cat breeds, such as those listed below, are harder to come by. They might not be as well-known or as popular as other breeds, and there may not be as many breeders as a result. Once you get to know the defining characteristics and features of these breeds, though, you might want to find a way to bring one into your family.

How Much Exercise Does a Cockapoo Need?

Cockapoos are known as one of the most popular hybrid dog breeds. Thanks to their intelligent nature and friendly demeanor, they are adored across the globe. A distinct mixture of a playful Poodle and a gentle Cocker Spaniel, these dogs are very energetic and fun. And this is exactly why exercise is so important for these pooches – it ensures a Cockapoo remains healthy and mentally stimulated. Without regular exercise, many things can go awry for these doggos. This is why you should know just how much exercise is enough for a Cockapoo, and make sure you provide a balanced daily routine for your little furry friend. How Much Exercise Does a Cockapoo Need?Even though these dogs are energetic, they are not considered sporting dogs. This means that, on average, they will be quite content with around 30 to 60 minutes of quality physical activity each day. But even so, the exact amount of time will depend on several factors, such as the dog’s age, size, and energy levels. Some dogs simply love to chill, relax, or snooze, while others prefer to zoom about to no end and that stands true for Cockapoos, too. After all, it is only natural that a young Cockapoo will need more physical activity, and an older one prefers short and less intense exercise sessions. Of course, exercise is not all about running about and jumping through hoops. There is also mental stimulation. While running, walking, and good playing will help burn that extra energy and maintain a slim physique, certain games and special dog puzzle toys will help keep their minds sharp and healthy as well. 

When Is a Dog Considered a Senior?

We can’t escape time. As the years pass, we inevitably grow older, and the same is true for our dogs. They bring joy and companionship to our lives, but they can’t stay young and energetic forever. As they age, their needs change, requiring special care and attention. But when exactly is a dog considered a senior? The answer depends on several factors, including breed, size, and overall health.How Breed and Size Affect AgingOne of the biggest factors influencing a dog's aging process is its breed and size. Generally, smaller dog breeds tend to live longer than larger breeds, which means they reach their senior years at different stages.Small Breeds (Under 20 lbs): Dogs like Dachshunds, Toy Poodles, and Chihuahuas often live between 12 and 16 years or more. They are typically considered seniors around 10 to 12 years old.Medium Breeds (20-50 lbs): Breeds such as Cocker Spaniels, Border Collies, and Beagles usually have lifespans of 10 to 14 years. They are considered seniors between 7 and 10 years old.Large Breeds (50-100 lbs): Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds typically live between 8 and 12 years. They reach senior status around 6 to 8 years old.Giant Breeds (Over 100 lbs): Dogs like Great Danes, Saint Bernards, and Mastiffs have shorter lifespans, averaging 6 to 10 years. They are usually considered seniors by the time they are 5 to 6 years old.While these general guidelines help estimate when a dog enters its senior years, it’s important to remember that genetics, lifestyle, and overall health also play a significant role in the aging process.Signs That Your Dog Is AgingAlthough age is a useful indicator, physical and behavioral changes can also signal that a dog is entering its golden years. For example, reduced energy levels are the usual sign, as older dogs might not be playful as they once were. Also, just like humans, dogs can develop gray hair, especially around the muzzle. With age, arthritis and joint problems become more common as well, just like cataracts, vision impairment, and hearing loss. As your pooch ages, you can also notice changes in their appetite or weight. As their metabolism slows down, they could lose or gain weight. Ultimately, some senior dogs can suffer from cognitive changes, experiencing confusion, disorientation, or changes in sleep patterns due to cognitive dysfunction syndrome (similar to dementia in humans).Caring for a Senior DogAs dogs enter their senior years, they require extra care to ensure they remain healthy and comfortable.

Microchip Company Closes: Do You Need to Re-Register Your Pet?

Microchips help reunite lost pets with their families, but they only work if they are active and registered to the right household. So, when a microchip company suddenly closed down and their database disappeared, word spread fast to let pet parents know that they need to take action if their pet now has an inactive microchip.

Dogs of Summer! Here's How to Avoid Heat Stroke This Year!

(photo credit: Lindsay Helms / shutterstock.com)For urban dogs, the lack of shade-providing trees and that hot city pavement underfoot can result in a variety of sun-induced health issues you may not have seen coming.While humans are typically diligent about taking steps to minimize the effect of dangerous UV rays and scorching heat – thinking baseball caps, visors, sunglasses, sunblock, and more – our pets are often left to the elements and struggle to cope. We think that providing cold drinking water is sufficient to hydrate and keep their body temperature down, but it’s not enough. Just like the person on the other end of their leash, dogs too, can experience sunburn and skin cancers including squamous cell carcinoma and malignant melanomas not to mention the impact of hot pavement, patio stones, asphalt, and even artificial turf that can result in blistered pads and elevated body temperature leading to heat stroke.If your pet has been out in the sun for any period of time and is panting heavily, beginning to drool and his fur feels hot to the touch, it’s time to immediately move him into the shade, provide him with cold water and take steps to lower his body temperature. This can include spraying him with cool water and placing cold towels around his core area. If he has progressed to the stage of vomiting, or collapsing, or his gums have turned pale, a veterinarian intervention is required.So, how do you prevent a good walk on a nice sunny day from turning into a medical emergency? Prepare! Happily, the pet industry has thought through a myriad of options.

4 Curly-Haired Cat Breeds That Are Cute Beyond Words

As you become more and more familiar with the many cat breeds out there, you’ll realize that there are shorthair, longhair, hairless, and even curly-haired feline breeds that make amazing pets. Wait, there are cats with curly fur? Yes, they exist! Here are four cat breeds with curly coats that are recognized by The International Cat Association (TICA) and The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA).

Ready to De-Stress Bath Time for Your Dog?

(photo credit: Gudman / shutterstock.com)I was raised to believe you shouldn’t bathe a dog because it would deplete the natural oils in their fur and dry out their skin. Back in the day, it was assumed that a dog’s ability to self-groom was sufficient to take care of whatever clean-up they might need.Fast forward, and with dogs sleeping in our beds and snuggling on our sofas, we’re suddenly much more aware of the need to keep our pets well-groomed and yes, smelling fresher.Aesthetics aside, bathing your dog not only allows you to check for ticks, sores, and lumps that shouldn’t be there, but a periodic scrub can also keep his skin and hair, healthy. With some breeds such as Yorkshire Terriers, Cocker Spaniels, Dachshunds, and West Highland Terriers (to name a few), a skin condition called Seborrhea can be common. Yes, just like with humans it’s down to an increased production of skin cells and/or skin oils.When it’s the dry version, you get flaky, scaly skin cells (dandruff) caused by excess keratin production. When oily, you get a waxy substance comes from the sebaceous glands which causes your dog’s coat to look greasy.Whether your pooch falls into the above category or he simply loves to dig, burrow, and roll in whatever he can when given the chance, cleaning him up is something you both deserve.

The Pros and Cons of Catios for Feline Companions

“Catio” is a cute term for an enclosed patio for cats—in other words, it’s a “cat patio.” It can stand on its own as an outdoor cat enclosure, or it can be connected to a window or door that leads to your backyard space. Either way, it lets your kitty spend time outside while remaining safely confined.

Renowned Chelsea Flower Show Gave Back to Dogs This Year

With famed horticulturist Monty Don, prestigious show shares tips on creating dog-friendly outdoor spaces.

What is the Best Litter for My Cat? Understanding Litter Types

The litterbox is often an afterthought for many of us, something that’s obviously necessary, but we overlook that it’s a cornerstone to our cat’s physical and mental well-being. Your cat’s litter box is important, including every detail that goes into it!A positive litter box experience is far more significant than simply a place to do their business. It directly impacts their hygiene, comfort, and even their overall behavior. Just as we appreciate a clean and comfortable bathroom, our cats have their own standards. Have you ever walked into a public washroom only to feel like you should just back away slowly?When setting up your cat’s litter box, there are several factors you should consider, one of which includes the type of litter. It’s easy to assume all litters are created equal, but the reality is that a world of different options, materials, and formulations exist, each with its own pros and cons.This guide will explain the differences between the many types of cat litter and help you find the perfect match for your cat to ensure a happy and accident-free home.Why Does Litter Choice Matter So Much?Choosing the right litter for your cat goes beyond simply providing a place to do their business. From a hygiene and health perspective, the right litter is an essential piece of the puzzle in providing a clean and healthy environment both for your cat and the rest of the household. The right litter choice will efficiently absorb moisture, limiting the growth of bacteria, preventing tracking through your home, and reducing unpleasant odors.Beyond the practicalities of basic cleanliness, there are behavioral impacts of your choices relating to your cat’s litter box. Cats can be surprisingly picky about the finer details of their litter, including the texture and the scent. Providing them with litter that doesn’t fit their personal preferences can lead to litter box avoidance and accidents in the home.For environmentally-conscious cat parents, it’s also worth noting that each litter option carries a different environmental footprint. From production to disposal, they each affect your impact on the environment differently.Finally, let’s not forget your convenience. While your cat’s happiness is the first priority, if you are down to a few options and one works better for you and your lifestyle, it makes sense to go in that direction. After all, a litter that’s difficult to manage or pushes the boundaries of your budget may not be an ideal long-term solution, regardless of how your cat feels about it.Exploring the Different Types of Cat LitterThere are a surprising number of different cat litter materials and formulations to choose from. Standing in your local pet store, looking at all the options, you may be feeling overwhelmed. Let’s look at the nuances of each type, including its pros and cons, to help you better understand the impact on your cat’s comfort and your own convenience, making it easier than ever to choose the best cat litter for your home.Clay Litter The best-known and most widely used liter solution, clay litter is a popular choice among cat parents. It’s primarily available in two types: clumping and non-clumping. Clumping clay litter is made from bentonite clay, a material with an incredible ability to absorb moisture and form solid, scoopable clumps when exposed to urine and feces. This clumping action makes daily cleaning of the box much easier, as you can easily remove the soiled portions while leaving the clean litter behind for future bathroom breaks. This makes it more budget-friendly than other solutions, as you only have to throw away the used litter.   Non-clumping clay litter is similar in that it is made from clay, but while it still absorbs the moisture, the clay does not form clumps. This can make cleanup a little more challenging as there are no easy clumps to remove. However, for young kittens, cats with PICA, or homes with dogs who may get into the box, the lack of clumping makes it a safer option that is less likely to cause a life-threatening blockage if consumed. It's worth noting that when choosing a clay litter, there are different textures, ranging from fine, sand-like litter to coarser particles. Some cats will have strong preferences related to texture, so pay attention to their digging and covering habits. Another variation that could turn your cat off is scented litter. While these scents may help mask odors, we must remember that our cats have a stronger sense of smell and are more sensitive to scents like these. Feeling overwhelmed by it, they may avoid the litter box entirely, leading to more accidents around the house. While clay litters are widely available and generally more cost-effective, they have some drawbacks. These litters can be quite dusty, which can be a concern for cats or cat parents with respiratory sensitivities. They are also generally heavier to carry. Finally, they are not biodegradable, meaning they contribute to landfill waste. Silica Gel (Crystal) Litter This type of litter is composed of small silica gel beads that act like tiny sponges, absorbing a surprising amount of litter while trapping odors. For this reason, one significant advantage of silica gel litter is its ability to control or eliminate odor, often doing so better than any clay litter product. It’s also incredibly lightweight, making it easy to carry, handle, and pour. Because the litter absorbs moisture so effectively, you can go longer between full litter box changes. While it may seem that fewer litter box changes would translate to considerable cost savings, this, unfortunately, isn’t the case due to the higher upfront costs. Some cats may also find the texture of the crystals or the slight crunching sound they make when stepped on to be uncomfortable or bothersome, which could turn them off using the box. My overly sensitive cat Pippen refuses to step on any form of silica gel litters I have tried in the past.

What is Trancing in Dogs?

If your dog likes to take it really slow and easy when walking under objects, he may be trancing.

What Are the Best Beginner Birds for Pet Owners?

Birds can make wonderful companions, bringing color, intelligence, and lively energy into a home. But if you're considering your first feathered friend, choosing the right species is important. Some birds are naturally easier to care for, while others require more time, experience, and patience.For beginners, it's essential to consider a bird’s temperament, noise level, social needs, and care requirements. To help you get started, here are five bird species that make great pets for first-time owners. Budgerigar (Budgie)

What Is Pica In Dogs?

Pica is a behavioral disorder in dogs characterized by the persistent consumption of non-food items. Dogs with pica may ingest objects such as plastic, rocks, fabric, wood, paper, and metal. While occasional chewing or mouthing of objects is normal, repeated ingestion of nonnutritive substances can signal an underlying medical or psychological issue. Understanding pica and its treatment is crucial, as consuming hard or indigestible objects can pose serious health risks to your pet.Causes of Pica in DogsPica can arise due to medical conditions, dietary deficiencies, or behavioral issues. Some health problems, such as inflammatory bowel disease ( IBD) , parasitic infections, and hormonal imbalances like diabetes or thyroid disorders, may trigger abnormal cravings. Inadequate levels of essential nutrients - such as iron, vitamins, or fiber - can also drive dogs to seek out non-food substances. On the behavioral side, anxiety and stress are common culprits, especially in dogs experiencing separation anxiety, boredom, or sudden changes in their environment. Some dogs may even develop pica as a way to get attention, learning that eating non-food items prompts a reaction from their owners. In certain breeds, compulsive tendencies can also contribute to this unusual behavior.Risks and Health ComplicationsThe primary symptom of pica is the repeated ingestion of non-food items, which can lead to severe health complications:Gastrointestinal Blockage: Swallowed objects such as plastic, stones, or fabric can cause life-threatening obstructions that often require surgical intervention.Toxicity: Some non-food items, including certain plants, chemicals, and household products, can be poisonous to dogs.Dental Damage: Hard objects like metal or rocks can break teeth or cause mouth injuries, leading to pain and potential infections.If a dog exhibits symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy, constipation, or loss of appetite, immediate veterinary care is essential.Treatment and PreventionThe good news is that pica can often be managed once you figure out the root cause. Here are some ways to help:

How Often Should I Feed My Cat?

Feeding your cat is one of the most basic responsibilities as a cat parent, but it’s more than just opening a can or pouring some kibble into a bowl. Your cat’s food is the fuel that powers them through their lives with you.Understanding their nutritional needs and establishing an effective feeding schedule is a key consideration for their overall health and well-being. This includes providing the right amount of food at the right time. But there isn’t a “one-size-fits-all” solution to mealtime. Instead, you’ll need to figure out how to meet your cat’s unique needs.In this article, I’m going to share the most important factors to consider when deciding how often and how much to feed your cat, signs your cat needs a change, and tips for establishing (and sticking to) a feeding schedule that suits both you and your cat.General Feeding Guidelines While there is no universal rule for feeding, there are guidelines that can serve as a starting point for deciding on the best plan for your cat. These are general guidelines based on the average healthy cat. However, they shouldn’t be taken as set in stone. The general guidelines, as set out by most experts (including VCA Animal Hospitals), are: Kittens 8 weeks – 6 months old: Feed approximately 5 meals/day to accommodate their tiny growing stomachsKittens 6 months old and adults: Can be fed larger meals and reduced to as few as 2 meals/day, no longer than 12 hours apartKittens should be transitioned to adult cat food at approximately 8-10 months old Of course, you will need to adjust your cat’s feeding routine based on several factors, ranging from their overall health to your lifestyle. If you’re unsure what the right approach is for your cat, I recommend speaking with your veterinarian or a pet nutritionist. Factors That Affect How Much to Feed Your Cat I have mentioned the many factors that can impact the right amount and frequency when feeding your cat. These factors cover many aspects of your cat’s life, including their health, age, lifestyle, and more. Here are the factors I consider when feeding my cats: Age There are stages in a cat’s life where they will naturally need a higher or lower calorie intake. Kittens, while growing, need the calories necessary to support their growing bodies. However, if you continue to feed that same amount as an adult cat, it can lead to weight gain and possibly obesity ( an ongoing problem in the US). At the same time, as a cat moves into their senior years, their body starts to slow down. At this stage, you need to adjust their nutrition to better suit their changing needs. Size/Breed Some cat breeds will naturally grow larger than others, requiring more calories to support their size. The best-known large cat breeds are the Maine Coon and the Norwegian Forest Cat. Of course, their size may be impacted if your cat is a mixed breed. I have a Maine Coon mix who is less than 7 lbs because she wasn’t blessed with the Maine Coon size.Weight You will need to adjust your cat’s meal depending on their current weight in relation to what is considered healthy. If your cat is overweight, you may need to cut back on how much or how often they are fed to support their weight loss. On the other hand (or paw) if your cat is underweight, you may need to strategically increase their calorie intake by feeding more each meal or feeding them more frequently. Activity Level Do you have a high-energy cat? Breeds like the Bengal are well-known for their playful and adventurous nature. Trying to fuel a higher-energy cat means that you will need to adjust their diet accordingly. However, if your cat is more laid-back and relaxed, feeding them more than necessary can cause them to gain weight. Health Conditions Anytime someone offers general guidelines for best feeding a pet or meeting their exercise needs, these guidelines are based on an average healthy pet. However, there are many health conditions that could impact your cat’s dietary needs. Conditions affecting how your cat absorbs nutrients from their diet may require a cat to eat more to meet their basic nutritional needs. Some health issues will also cause your cat to gain weight easier, meaning you need to restrict their diet. Or they may have specific needs related to exactly what you’re feeding or how much they can eat at any given time. When it comes to health-specific requirements, it’s best to speak with your cat’s veterinarian. They are familiar with your cat’s health history and can make recommendations that are best suited to keep them healthy and happy. Food Type Do you feed you cat wet food or dry food? Some foods are more calorie-dense than others, which can impact how often your cat needs to eat. Wet foods generally have a higher moisture content, making them less-calorie dense. A smaller portion of these foods can make your cat feel full. If your cat eats a diet primarily of kibble, they often need to eat smaller amounts to achieve the same level of calories and nutrition.  Your Schedule Your cat’s health and well-being should be the primary concern when deciding on their feeding schedule, but I would be lying if I said that your schedule doesn’t also play into your decision. For example, if you have a hectic work schedule, it may be harder to accommodate multiple smaller meals. There are tools that you can use to help overcome these challenges. Many cat parents use automatic feeders like the Cat Mate C300 Automatic Digital Pet Feeder to offer meals on time, even when they are stuck at the office.

Cats Could Play a Role as Therapy Animals

Could cats become more common in animal-assisted services and therapy work? Keep reading to learn about some recent research into feline therapy.

What's the Scoop on Dog Food Toppers?