Weight concerns and managing a healthy weight is just as vital for cats as it is for their human counterparts. An overweight cat can end up with as many or more health problems as an overweight human, including arthritis, diabetes and heart disease, while being at greater risk for complications from anesthesia and surgery. This is why finding out what the most appropriate weight is for your kitty is incredibly important. It is difficult to summarise the healthy weight for a cat because the ideal range can vary dramatically with the size, sex, age and breed of each cat, so the best way to manage an overweight cat is with the assistance of your vet.  A cat’s ideal weight can be gauged roughly by examining both the breed standard and the body condition/frame size of your cat. Usually the standard for each breed will include an ideal weight range for both males and females. Broadly speaking, the ideal weight of cats are: Domestic cat: 3.5kg to 4.5kg Persian cat: 3.0kg to 5.5kg Siamese cat: 2.0kg to 4.5kg Maine Coon cat: 4.5kg to 11kg In measuring the frame of your cat, you should be able to feel your cats ribs as well as see their waist when you look at your cat from above, as a cat’s waist line should go inwards. In addtion to obvious physical signs, there are multiple behavioral clues to look out for which could indicate your cat is overweight or even obese. These include, your cat often appearing tired and lazy (beyond that of a normal cat), hesitation when jumping, difficulty grooming properly, matted hair on the back or tail area and a reluctance to play games. You may even notice that they are having trouble climbing stairs, jumping from high places or even standing on their hind legs. This may be a symptom of an onset of arthritis which can be managed by reducing your cat's weight. Cat's that are of a healthy weight won't require a special diet, however, a cat that is severely under or overweight should have their caloric needs met with specialised foods and a recommended diet by a vet. Because weight fluctuations can be caused by both disease and diet, it is critical you seek the advice of your veterinarian to determine the cause and appropriate treatment. Remember, it’s okay to treat your pets, but they’re meant to be just that – a treat. Not an everyday food. Feature Image Credit

Although your dog's ears need to be reguarly cared for and monitored by your vet, it is quite simple to keep them clean and healthy yourself. This is especially important because it's not uncommon for parasites, bacteria or yeast to hide in the inner ear and cause plenty of pain and discomfort. It is also easy for dirt to become trapped in the ear due to the way dog's ears are shaped, trapping debris which can cause allergies and infections. Cocker spaniels, basset hounds and poodles are particularly vulnerable, due to their adorable floppy ears. To reduce infections or allergies, ear checks should be a regular part of your dog's grooming regime. If you take your dog to a groomer, ask them to pay special attention to their ears. However if you groom your dog yourself and their ears look dirty, clean them using a doggy ear cleaner on a dampened cotton ball. This is delicate enough on their skin so it won't cause any irritations and is very effective at cleaning the ears very well. If your dog has hairy ears and you can see that some hairs have sprouted from the ear canal, you can ask your groomer to tweeze them out or simply cut them down to a length that won't mat or tangle. It isn't recomended that you try tweezing them yourself as it can be uncomfortable for your pet and you wouldn't want him or her to associate that pain with you. If your dog is a frequent swimmer you may have noticed that post-swim their ears are irritated, which could mean some water has gotten into the ear. To prevent this from happening, dry your pooch's ears thoroughly using a cotton cloth. If you don't, it may lead to ear infections which can be painful. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your vet at the earliest convenience: Discharge Smelly ears Redness Swelling Hairloss Itchiness Crusty skin Blood in ears Ear mites Feature Credit Image

Christmas is a joyous time of year filled with happiness and great mirth, and should be fun for all the family- pets included. While Christmas is surrounded with joy and cheer, it can in fact inadvertently have a profound negative effect on our pets. Many Christmas left overs and food items are toxic and can cause serious illness to our pets, so it is important to take caution when choosing which treats to give to your pets over the holiday season.   Cooked bones and cured meat can play havoc with intestines. Inflammation of the pancreas can be a result of feeding your pet rich meats, stuffing and crackle. Cooked bones can splinter and perforate the oesophagus, stomach or intestines, causing blockages along the digestive tract.   Rich foods that are high in fat cause the pancreas, an organ near the stomach which produces digestive enzymes, to go into overdrive. The result is pancreatitis, the swelling of the dog's pancreas which can have long-term consequences. Fatty foods or table scraps such as turkey skin or pan drippings, gravy, bacon or sausages should be avoided.   Onions, avocados, chocolate, nuts and grapes in particular are on the no-go list. All of these foods can be responsible for damage to the heart and lungs, gastric irritation and anaemia. They can cause a range of symptoms including loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhoea, severe stomach pain and even collapse.   Chocolate can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, muscle twitching, increased urination and excessive panting. Chocolate contains a chemical called theobromine, which can’t be metabolised by animals as well as humans, accumulating to become toxic or even fatal.   Onions can cause a form of anaemia and should never be fed to pets, with garlic causing similar cause gastric irritation. Avocados may cause heart damage while the ingestion of raisins, sultanas and grapes may cause kidney failure,   Xylitol is a more lethal agent for pets than chocolate so avoid sharing store-bought desserts or anything else artificially sweetened with xylitol. This artificial sweetener can cause acute and life threatening low blood sugar as well as liver failure in pets. Any sweet treats or leftovers containing alcohol are quite toxic to animals as their sensitivity to alcohol is above that of humans.   While our pets are much-loved members of our families, it is important to resist that urge to give them scraps or even a Christmas dinner served into their bowl. Feature Image Credit  

If you've had kids, been a kid or even just been around kids you'll know about the life-changing moment when that child becomes a teenager. Their mood and behaviour changes as do their interests. Unsuprisingly, animals go through similar changes, although they won't slam the door in your face when you don't let them go to the mall when they want. These changes start when your kitty is between 13 and 20 months old. Cats that were quiet, cuddley and shy may transform into playful, rambunctious and may even be a little bit of a scratcher, while other high-energy cats may begin to mature and slowly calm down into lap cats. With this transition come some behavioural changes that you will have to manage. Your cat is maturing into adulthood and wants to make his or her mark, which could mean they become a little more aggressive or more amourous...  If your adolescent is displaying signs of aggression, it could mean your cat develops biting or scratching habit towards humans, which might be a bit of a risk to your family, specially if you have children in the house. This can be controlled with consistency. Use a clean spritzer bottle to spray your kitty with water whenever he or she bites or scratches. This will irritatate them so much that they will stop. During this time be warned that if you have an outdoor cat, to be prepared for your cat to come home with a few scratches and battle scars. He or she may be starting fights with other cats in the neighbourhood, and this will be much harder to manage and stop. However as your kitty comes into adulthood they are sure to calm down. Treat any wounds carefully and if the injuries are serious take your cat to the vet. Be warned that during your cat's adolescence, your furniture may be about to recieve some injuries of their own. Cats increase their levels of scratching furniture to leave scent marks so that it is identified as his or her property. The spray bottle technique also works wonders for this. However if your cat is possessive he or she may also be marking territory by urinating. This is a much tougher problem to deal with as the smell of cat urine is hard to get rid of. If there are particular places your cat has been eyeing off, spray it with vinegar as the smell will deter your cat from urinating there. Adolescence is also the time your kitten reaches sexual maturity, signifying it is time for your cat to produce his or her own little kittens. However it is advisable to spay your kitty as backyard breeding can be quite hard on your cat. It is easy to be able to tell if your female cat is in heat as she will be screaming and rolling around. This usually lasts a week! If they are not spayed, try and keep her indoors at this time so she doesn't fall pregnant. So that both you and your cat survive their adolescence, try to get them to engage in puzzle toys, daily play time and as many engaging activities as possible to give his or her time to burn extra energy. It will also give him or her the opportunity to hunt, stalk and chase-all instinctual behaviours he or she should learn to control. Feature Image Credit

It's no secret that pet ownership can benefit your life in many ways. But what most cat people don't realise is how beneficial having a cat can be for their health. From reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease, improving the immune system and even helping with the symptoms of depression - cats can improve them all. It has been reported that if you own a cat you are less likely to die of cardiovascular disease. A study conducted by the University of Minnesota found that people who don't own cats were up to 40 per cent more likely to die from the disease. This could be due to the fact that cat ownership can reduce stress and blood pressure. The study also revealed that past cat ownership has the same effect and that acquiring a cat can also be used as a part of therapy to treat those already with cardiovascular disease. In terms of improving your immunity, cats can be quite beneficial. Although most people think that pets can reduce their immune system, a study conducted in Finland suggests quite the opposite-despite the malting fur and the furballs! The study showed that children who grew up with a cat in the home were healthier, suffered less infections and required less antibiotics. It's thought that this is the case due to children being exposed to germs brought into the house which in turn strengthens immunity. Additionally, cats often know when you are ill and provide you with comfort, helping you get better. There are multiple studies around the world reporting that owning a cat can assist in decreasing stress and anxiety due to their calming nature. Being able to care for an animal or having a cat snuggle with you, can help you feel better and reduce your stress levels. However, it's their unconditional love for you that has the strongest effect on your mood and what doctors think can help with the effects of depression. Although people suffering with depression may not feel like they can look after anything else when they are stuggling to look after themselves, experts claim that adding the responsibility of cat ownership can add a positive focus to their life. It will give the person a sense of value and reminds them that they are able to do much more than they think. Cats can also provide a fun distraction from bigger picture problems by simply being themselves. A furry friend playing with a ball of yarn can not only keep them entertained but also cause us laughter and general mood improvement! There are plenty ways cats improve your life so to treat them for all their efforts and why not check out our awesome range of cat toys here.  

Do you have trouble falling asleep on warm summer nights? Well, you're not alone. Your pooch too can find it hard to find comfort on a hot day. Although your dog might be active and full of energy, you may have noticed that they enjoy sleeping for a good portion of the day. Given that they sleep so much, it is important to ensure their bed is suitable for the temperature, and during the warmer months your pooch will be looking for a cool place to relax. Some dogs, especially breeds with long fur or with a double coat can overheat on hot days. They may have trouble sleeping on and may even get heatstroke if their temperatures are not well managed.  Cooling beds are just one way to help your dog cool down and avoid uneccessary dehydration or heatstroke. There are many types of cooling beds to choose from based on your dog's size, where you'll keep the bed and whether or not you want it to be filled with water or gel. Gel cooling beds are comfortable as they provide extra cushioning for your pet as they rest, however some dogs find the consistency of the gel under their bodies awkward and some may even fear stepping onto the gel cooling bed. While they work quite well, they do not cool as much as a water bed would. Water cooling beds are also a great option as they can easily be put into the fridge or freezer (as can gel beds). They are also quite soothing for pets that have arthritis or oesteperosis and have even been used post-operatively. But again, the movement of the water can freak out some dogs as they step on or lie on it. The main benefit of a cooling bed is obviously to provide a cooler place to rest but the medical benefits should not be overlooked. It takes only minutes for an overheated dog's health to become detrimental and may even result in death. Cooling beds are also a great treatment for any pain and swelling, elbow or hip dysplasia and is also great for senior dogs that suffer from arthritis. They can also aid any irritations that may be caused by skin conditions as the bed will cool any itchy irritated skin. It's all about the comfort for your pet, so choose wisely and consult with the point to see if you can exchange the bed should your pooch not take to it.    Need to keep your pooch cool during the warmer months? Check out our amazing range of cooler beds right here. Feature Image Credit

Pumpkin has many health benefits for pets, making it a food that is recommended to be safely and regularly added to a pet’s diet. While raw pumpkin is not ideal for your dog or cat, canned and cooked fresh pumpkin, along with pumpkin seeds have many nutritional benefits. Pumpkin can benefit the health of your pet, inside and out by: Supporting urinary health in dogs and cats: The natural oils in pumpkin within both the seeds and flesh, veterinarians believe, provide urinary tract support and help work against both kidney and bladder stones. Acting as a source of fiber to stay regular: Both diarrhea and constipation can be eliminated with the addition of pumpkin to your pet’s diet. The dietary fiber of pumpkin can both moisten obstructions as well as absorb excess water and stomach acids alleviating diarrhea and constipation woes. Mobilising and preventing furballs in cats: The fiber in pumpkins also act as a preventative agent, when consumed regularly, helping to prevent the formation of new furballs. Pumpkin may also help move furballs along your cat’s digestive tract, easing the movement and severity of furball moments. Naturally de-worming your pet: Ground pumpkin seeds contain cucurbitin, a natural amino acid, which acts as a paralyzing agent for tapeworms and other intestinal parasites. Adding to the nutritional intake: Pumpkin flesh and seeds contain high amounts of Vitamin A, Vitamin E, iron, potassium, magnesium, manganese, copper, zinc and beta-carotene. These, coupled with anti-oxidants, may help prevent cancers and other illnesses in your pet adding to their health and well-being. Help moisturise healthy skin and coats: The antioxidants and fatty acids found in pumpkin add to health of your pet’s skin and fur from the inside out by moisturising. Antioxidants, along with vitamin C, also add immune system support effects, adding electrolytes and potassium essential for muscular contraction recovery. Contributing to the weight loss of your pet: Pumpkin’s fiber allows pets to feel fuller on smaller amounts of food portions, allowing them to enjoy a tasty treat while allowing owners better weight control for their pets. Replacing one-third of your pet’s normal food servings with pumpkin will reduce their calorie-intake leaving pets feeling fuller and happier.   Pumpkin should be cooked, pureed or mashed before being served to pets. Both fresh pumpkin or plain pumpkin canned can be utilized, but stay away from the spiced pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin seeds can be served roasted whole or ground for easy consumption. Feature Image Credit  

With a growing population of aging, overweight dogs, the market for dog supplements is ever-increasing. Many people take dietary supplements or vitamins themselves so it's no suprise they’re giving them to their pets too. But do dogs need those vitamins and supplements? The simple answer is yes. These supplements help a dog’s body function properly by regulating everything from digestion to muscle growth. Deficiencies of a particular vitamin can cause health problems in dogs, which can sometimes have serious and long-lasting effects. Supplements can be a recommended dietary requirement as dog food storage and cooking methods are causing some dog foods to lose essential vitamins, nutrients and minerals, leaving notable depleted nutrients in our dog’s diets.  Dog dietary supplements are prescribed by veterinarians to compliment a dog's diet and to help maintain optimal health. Even the healthiest of organic dog food may not be enough for certain dogs. These supplements are also prescribed to dogs who suffer from joint problems, arthritis and other skeletal problems, effective especially when used in aging dogs that lack energy for play or daily tasks. The most common supplements are multivitamins, supporting arthritic joints and fatty acids to reduce shedding and improve a dog's coat shine. Dog owners also may give probiotics to alleviate gastrointestinal problems or antioxidants to counteract the effects of aging. Glucosamine-chondroitin supplements, commonly given to dogs with osteoarthritis, can lead to less pain and more mobility after around 70 days of treatment in suffering dogs. Fatty acid and fish oil supplements can help coats look better, reduce inflammation and help with the maintenance of tissues within the body. Antioxidants and vitamins A, B, C and E supplements also reduce inflammation and help aging dogs with memory problems, prompting growth in their immune system, cancer prevention, allergies, infections and stress management. Calcium supplements for dogs benefit bone formation, blood coagulation and nerve impulse transmission. It is recommended that your dog takes supplements if they are diagnosed with a vitamin or mineral deficiency, or your dog is diagnosed with a disease that can be treated with a supplement. However supplements are also a good idea if you cook your dog’s meals and need help filling a multivitamin gap. They are also useful if your dog is a poor eater due to medical conditions or behavioral issues. Ultimately, dogs who suffer joint problems, minor to severe arthritis, skeletal problems, teeth, mouth or gum disease, in-active lifestyles, digestive problems, hair loss and immune system problems can reap the benefits of dog supplements. However be cautious about giving human supplements to dogs. Some products, such as garlic, can be dangerous for dogs. In any situation, always consult with your veterinarian before beginning supplements to fully consider your dog’s medical history and current physical state, allowing the best direction to be taken for your little buddy.

The mornings have become much cooler, you’ve started layering up, even wearing your winter coat when you head out to work. Winter is definitely on its way and you’re not the only one feeling it. Your pets are also adjusting to the chilly weather and need you as their owner to keep them healthy and warm during these cooler months to avoid the winter blues. Being Outdoors If you’ve got an outdoor pet then you may need to adjust their outdoor housing to keep them warm during winter. There are fantastic ranges of kennels and enclosures that can protect your pet from the elements. However it’s up to you to make sure it is placed away from the rain, wind or even snow so they can rest comfortably. However if you live in an area that snows a lot, it is recommended you bring your pet indoors so that your pet does not freeze in the frosty weather. Whether your pet sleeps indoors or outdoors, be sure to keep their bedding raised and away from cold drafts and add warm blankets. Feeding You might have noticed that your pet’s appetite is insatiable. This is normal as their appetite increases as they use more energy to keep warm. But that doesn’t mean you should be feeding your furry friend more snacks. Keep an eye on their weight and ensure they enjoy a well-balanced diet. If you feel he or she is gaining too much weight or perhaps is looking a little underweight see your vet. Exercise There’s simply nothing your pet loves more than playing! So whether you take your dog out for a walk, for a game of fetch or even a quick run around the block, any physical actvitiy will help beat the winter blues. Your cat will also benefit from exercise and play during the colder months where they may avoid being outdoors. This is also a great way to keep the increase in calories balanced. Keeping Warm Your pet’s lush fur coat may appear to be the perfect protection from the chilly winter air however, during extreme weather even your furry friend may need additional protection from the elements. Not only will a coat or sweater keep your pet warmer it will also aid in regulating their internal temperatures. If your pets fur gets wet the fur can lose lots of its insulation ability making it harder for your pet to stay warm. Choosing a weather resistant coat for walks in the rain is an ideal choice for your pet. Older Pets The aches and pains that go hand in hand with getting older become particularly apparent during the winter months. To help your aging pet during chilly weather, ensure he or she has a soft and warm place to rest. You may consider adding a supplement such as Glucosamine-Chondoitin to aid in any arthritic aches and pains. Your pet might also benefit from having a hot water bottle added to their bed, however, remember not to put boiling water in there - just warm water so that it doesn’t burn your pet.

Breaks, sprains, colds, infections and viruses are unfortunately a part of life and they often happen when you least expect it. But you’re not the only one at risk. Your pets can also fall sick unexpectedly and may need medical attention. It can start as simply as coming home from work and finding your normally vivacious pooch cowering fearfully. That’s when you see the vomit on the carpet in a corner. You instantly carry them out to the car to take him to the vet. On the way you think, ‘I hope I’ve got enough money to cover the consultation.’ During the examination you find out that your dog will need to be placed on an IV as they are dehydrated. In addition to this, some blood tests and an X-Ray are required to find out what’s wrong with your beloved family pet. And then you get the bill. Luckily you can cover this consult plus the tests, but the vet tells you that according to the results your pooch may need more tests and possible surgery. It’s at this point you start seeing dollar signs. This type of situation is exactly why it's a good idea to plan for your pets unexpected medical bills. But before you panic, there are a few things you can do to prepare for moments like this. Some vets are open to payment plans and offer this as an option for larger bills. It doesn’t hurt to ask your vet if this is an option for you. If a payment plan is not available at your vet then you may consider taking a loan out to cover the medical bills. However if you want to be proactive perhaps getting pet insurance is the best way to avoid a situation like this. There are so many different types of pet insurance available to suit all needs and cater to all budgets. For the most part, the cover will pay the majority of the vet bill and you will be able to get reimbursed quickly too. Pet insurance is a safety net for any unexpected medical costs, operating pretty much like your own private health insurance, which you can depend on when you are sick or injured. Before signing up for a new policy, remember to do your research and find the right policy for your pet. If you have more than one furry friend, it's a good idea to see which insurance companies offer discounts for signing up more than one pet, which will help you save more in the long run.   Feature Image Credit