3 simple ways to treat fleas and tick infestation in dogs

3 simple ways to treat fleas and tick infestation in dogs

As a dog owner, one of the biggest concerns to tackle is fleas and tick infestation. These parasites feed off the pets’ blood, causing excessive scratching and irritation. There is a variety of flea and tick repellents in the market. However, it is necessary to be aware of natural remedies. The following article lists some of the most effective treatments to manage flea and tick infestation in dogs at home: Clinical options Before discussing natural remedies to manage flea and tick infestation in dogs, it is also important to be aware of clinical treatment options. Simparica® This is one such option that prevents flea and tick infestation in dogs. The FDA-approved oral treatment option can be given once a month which remains effective for up to 35 days. Other treatment options Other options include Bravecto® and K9 Advantix®, where the latter is a topical treatment used on a monthly basis, and the former is an oral treatment option used once in three months. Bravecto® can also be used for getting rid of heartworm. Foods to eat Experts say that fleas and ticks are likely to attack weak and unhealthy animals. If your dog is given healthy and nutritious foods, fleas and tick infestation won’t be a problem.
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How to solve cat litter box problems

How to solve cat litter box problems

If you’re frustrated with how your cat uses its litter box, you’re not alone. Most cat owners admit that their furry friends develop issues with their litter boxes, which can be anything from not using the box altogether to defecating or urinating inside and outside the box. Health and behavioral issues could be attributed to this. Thankfully, there are a few tried and tested methods that can help solve your furry companion’s litter box problems. Consult the vet Before you try anything else, it’s best to take your cat to the vet. Sometimes, health issues can prevent your cat from using the litter box properly. These issues may include painful urination, constipation, diarrhea, injured paws, arthritis, dementia, diabetes, or kidney problems. The vet may inquire about your cat’s litter box problem in detail and recommend a urinalysis, stool check, or a blood test. Place the box in an appropriate location Like humans, cats need privacy when they do their business. If the litter box is currently located in a high-traffic area, move it to a quiet place where there’s the least disturbance. However, make sure that the new place isn’t too far or isolated, like in the basement. Also, avoid keeping the box close to their bed or food bowl.
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Types of cat litter and their effects on humans

Types of cat litter and their effects on humans

One may have to deal with cat waste if they have a domesticated feline friend at home. Many pet owners prefer using cat litter as they are easy to clean the excreted waste. All pet cats are litter trained, meaning they will only pee or poop inside the cat litter placed in the house. As a pet parent, one must ensure that the litter box is cleaned at least twice daily to keep it germ-free. But are there any dangers to having cat litter? Let’s find out. While having a cat litter box at home may not expose humans to fatal dangers, cleaning the litter box may lead to health issues if one is not careful with this sanitation process. There are different types of litter. Therefore, one must know how to manage them as they can adversely affect human health in the long run. Clumping litter Clumping litter contains bentonite, a substance that allows the liquid to clump together. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it is best if humans do not inhale or ingest this substance. Some of these clumping cat litters also contain silica, which has carcinogenic effects leading to an increased risk of lung cancer.
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5 simple ways to toilet train a cat

5 simple ways to toilet train a cat

One of the main concerns for new pet parents is toilet training their feline friends. Cats are smart species; they understand the tricks within a few weeks. However, teaching them the correct techniques from day one is essential as it will gradually mold the cat’s behavior toward using the toilet bowl or litter boxes. The transition can be challenging, so we have listed seven simple steps to help with the process. Decide and prepare a designated bathroom Choose a bathroom that is easily accessible to your pet. And place the litterbox close to the toilet. The idea is to get your cat to “go” in the litter box and train it to use the toilet bowl gradually. The cat will get familiar with the new spot eventually. Move the litter box closer to the toilet bowl Move the litter box an inch closer to the toilet bowl. It will also be convenient for the pet parent to clean the box when they want to. Get rid of a layer of litter to a point where there’s a thin layer left in the box. Raise the height of the litter box Stack a pile of newspapers, old magazines, or cardboards under the litter box, and gradually raise the height, so that the cat can easily jump onto the box.
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5 plants that repel ticks effectively

5 plants that repel ticks effectively

People with pets in their house have one thing common to worry about – tick or lice infestation. Particularly during summers when the chances of flea and tick infestations increase. Your backyard can turn dangerous for your pets. But the solution for this is simple. You can protect your pets by growing any of the below-listed plants. These act as effective flea and tick repellants. They can repel fleas and ticks due to their scent. Lavender The plant belongs to the mint family and is quite useful in fending off bloodsucking parasites like ticks and mites from your backyard. Planting lavender in your backyard or home garden will keep your pets and your house protected from any pest infestation. Eucalyptus Among its many uses, this herb is also effective in warding off pests and ticks from your house. Pet owners can also make a tick-repellant spray by using rosemary oil and water in equal parts. This spray is perfectly safe and can be used on your pet’s fur. Wormwood It’s a wild plant that grows almost everywhere. Wormwood’s smell and the chemicals it produces are known to repel ticks. It is also known for its signature bitter taste that animals hate.
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10 tips to save money on veterinary bills

10 tips to save money on veterinary bills

Owning a pet can bring great joy, but it also comes with responsibilities, including veterinary care. While everyone wants the best for their furry family members, the cost of veterinary care can be significant. However, providing excellent care for pets doesn’t mean it has to drain one’s finances. The following article explores ten valuable tips to help one save money on veterinary bills while still providing excellent care for pets. Preventative care is key The old saying, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” holds true in this scenario too. One must ensure their pet receives the vaccinations as recommended by the veterinarian. These vaccinations can prevent common and often costly diseases. Preventive care also includes regular screening for pets. Regular check-ups Routine check-ups with the veterinarian are essential for a pet’s overall health. These vet visits can detect health issues early, saving on costly treatments. During check-ups, pet parents must discuss their pet’s food regimen, exercise, and any concerns they may have. Comparison shop for veterinary clinics Like with any service, prices for veterinary care can vary from one clinic to another. Take the time to compare prices and services offered by different clinics in the area.
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Top 6 home plants that can save pets from pests

Top 6 home plants that can save pets from pests

As the warmer months approach, many pet owners and outdoor enthusiasts are gearing up for more time spent outdoors. However, with the great outdoors come unwanted pests like fleas and ticks, which can be a nuisance for humans and their furry companions. While chemical-based repellents are commonly used, there are natural alternatives that can help keep these pests at bay. One such alternative is using plants that naturally repel fleas and ticks. 1. Lavender Lavender is a natural flea and tick repellent. These insects are repelled by the strong fragrance of lavender, making them an excellent choice for gardens or indoor pots. Planting lavender in one’s garden or outdoor sitting areas can deter fleas and ticks from bothering inhabitants and their pets. 2. Rosemary This versatile herb acts as a natural pest repellent; its aromatic scent acts as a deterrent to fleas and ticks. One can plant rosemary in their garden or create a natural spray by boiling rosemary leaves and using the infused water as a pet-friendly flea and tick repellent. 3. Mint Like peppermint and spearmint, mint plants emit a strong scent that fleas and ticks find unpleasant. Planting mint around one’s garden or patio can help keep these pesky insects away.
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5 best chew-time bully sticks for pups

5 best chew-time bully sticks for pups

Bully sticks, often touted as the ultimate chew-time companion for dogs, have secured their place as a beloved treat. These all-natural treats serve multiple needs in a little pup’s life. The primary purpose of bully sticks lies in satiating a dog’s instinctive need to chew. Chewing on bully sticks offers dogs a wholesome outlet for their energy and anxiety. Additionally, this gnawing action helps maintain healthy dental hygiene by reducing plaque and tartar buildup. 5 best bully sticks for little pups Pawstruck Bully Sticks One standout option for pups is the Pawstruck Bully Sticks, sourced from high-quality, free-range, grass-fed cattle. These single-ingredient treats contain no artificial additives or preservatives, ensuring a natural and healthy chewing experience. Available in various sizes, they cater to different breeds and chewing styles and are oven-baked to lock in flavor and nutrition. One of the reasons buyers prefer Pawstruck is because it is sold by weight instead of the number of sticks. This eliminates the problem caused by inconsistent sizing of the bully sticks. Nature Gnaws For those seeking an economical yet high-quality option, Nature Gnaws Natural Dog Chews fit the bill. Sourced from free-range, grass-fed cattle in South America, these treats are a single-ingredient delight with no added hormones, chemicals, or preservatives.
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6 foods that are toxic to pets

6 foods that are toxic to pets

Pet parents wish the best for their pets. They strive to ensure their furry friends live a quality life by grooming them, buying them toys, and letting them move around the house freely. Some even feed their pets snacks from their own plate to keep them happy. However, one must note that not every human food is safe for animals. Here are six everyday foods that can be toxic to pets. Chocolates Chocolates are a popular treat in almost every household. Many love indulging in chocolate bars and other recipes containing chocolates, such as brownies and cookies. While these are safe for humans, they are highly unsuitable for dogs and cats. Chocolates contain a compound called theobromine, which is toxic to them. Consuming even small amounts of chocolate can lead to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, rapid heart rate, seizures, and, in severe cases, death in pets. Caffeine Like theobromine, caffeine is toxic to cats and dogs. It’s commonly found in beverages like coffee, tea, and sodas. Ingesting caffeine can cause restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, seizures, and, in severe cases, death. Hence, one must keep caffeinated products away from pets. Avocados Although a superfood for humans, avocados are toxic to birds and cattle.
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Benefits of wet and dry cat foods

Benefits of wet and dry cat foods

If you’re a cat parent, you’d already be aware of their eating habits. Cats prefer a variety of meals in small proportions. No wonder we find them grazing over their bowls time and again. Although, if you’re new to the concept of wet and dry foods for cats, dive right in, for we’ve got something for you. There are benefits of serving both wet and dry foods to felines. Mainly because, unlike dogs, they’re difficult to please, and one can’t trick them into things they don’t like. If your cat is a fussy eater, they may enjoy wet food better. Find out the benefits of the best dry and wet cat foods. Benefits of dry cat food While dry cat food is convenient to store and serve, cats may throw tantrums if served the same food every day. However, dry cat foods help maintain their dental health by preventing the buildup of tartar. Dry foods are also the best way to get the cat to chew its food, exercising its jaws. These foods are ideal when cats are suffering from diarrhea as it helps add bulk to their stool. Some best dry cat foods that are readily available in every kitchen include:
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