Gifts You Still Have to Find for the Furry Members

He’s making a list, checking it twice, gonna find out who’s naughty and nice…

Santa Paws is coming to town.

Most of the gifts are purchased and wrapped and under the tree, right? Well, maybe not, and maybe some of the gifts you still have to find are for the furry members of the household. You’ve put some catnip or a bone in a stocking before, but maybe this year you’re looking for something different. 

Bestproducts.com has a slideshow of ideas. 

The Howliday Box : a gift box with a variety of gifts for that hard-to-shop-for dog.

Facial Massage Roller for Cats : more ways for cats to prove they’re in charge of what you do for them.

Apollo Peak MosCATo wine: for those nights cuddling in front of a crackling fire (don’t forget to pick up some human wine for yourself).

The Honest Kitchen Bone Broth: for those dogs who like a gourmet touch to their food.

And if you are that horse-lover who always really wanted a unicorn, you can get your horse its very own unicorn costume!

One thing to be aware of is that if you wrap up a great food treat and help the dog open it, it is entirely possible that from that day forward, the dog will think that every present is for her and will want to help you unwrap it.
And if you have cats, there’s nothing they’ll like better than the boxes the presents come in. 

It’s time to bring them home

You’ve been anticipating the big day. You’ve spent time preparing for it. Getting the right bed, toys, and maybe some soft blankets. Letting your current household residents know it’s happening. It’s time to bring them home.

No, it’s not a new baby.

It’s a new cat or dog.

The problem is, you need to introduce the new pet and the pet you already have, and that can be tricky. Sometimes, pets will take to each other easily, but often, they will understandably be scared, wary and even jealous of each other. It can be a little trickier introducing dogs and cats to each other too, especially if they’ve never seen the other type of animal before.

You’ll want to make sure to consider both animals’ personalities, and plan accordingly. You don’t want them disliking and fighting with each other (though sometimes it will be expected). If you have an aggressive dog, you may want to skip the idea of getting a cat, but an easygoing, friendly dog might welcome a new kitten.

Perhaps introduce your dog or cat to a friend’s dog or cat first, to see how they react, before deciding what new pet to bring into your own home. Once you bring the new animal home, rotate who has freedom in the house; one day the cat, the next day, the dog. This way they can learn to share the home with each other and have some time to explore on their own too. You’ll also want to keep them separated when no humans are home to keep an eye on them.

If you have any questions or problems, you may want to consider consulting a veterinarian or an animal behavioral specialist, because you don’t want stressed out animals. The goal is finding a way to have a happy home.

What are some cat myths you have heard?

Sometimes, we think we know some facts about cats, but it turns out that those facts are actually myths. Even the most ardent cat-lover isn’t immune to believing them.

The first myth that most people probably believe is that cats should drink milk. While it’s true they may love the taste of it, and some are even more partial to whipped cream, that doesn’t necessarily mean that it is good for them. They are can possibly be lactose intolerant, just like many humans. You’ll need to find another treat for them.

Another myth that people might believe about cats is that they hate water. While they may not enjoy swimming, cats are actually fascinated by water, especially running water. They may prefer drinking out of the bathroom faucet to their water dish, and even enjoy sitting on the edge of the tub while you take a bath. 

One of the saddest myths is the idea that cats shouldn’t be in homes with pregnant women or babies, because of fears of contracting toxoplasmosis or the cat “stealing” the baby’s breath. Toxoplasmosis can be a risk, but it’s a risk not only from cat litter, but also potentially raw meat or digging in the garden. This is a great time to give someone else in the household the opportunity to learn a new chore of cleaning out the litter box.

And cats don’t steal a baby’s breath. Rather, they just love to cuddle up next to something warm and soft.

Another truth about cats: They love to lodge at Morris Animal Inn!

Cats & People Food Go Together?

The sound of a can opener opening a can of tuna can make the cats come running. The smell of the chicken resting on the kitchen counter can make cats think it’s for them, and look at you like you’re in the wrong when you chase them off.

People food is often a special treat for them, but there are foods other than the usual fish and chicken that cats may like too. Cats’ tastes can be as varied as anyone’s tastes, and they can try new foods (just remember to always check with your veterinarian about dietary changes). Every once in a while, cats will like strange food items such as Doritos or lollipops. They will try to get at them when you are eating them but those will not be vet-approved. On the healthier side, cats may like treats such as:

•          Green Beans
•          Sweet Potatoes
•          Plain low-fat yogurt
•          Spinach
•          Blueberries

If you choose to try any of these foods as a treat for your cat, and your vet approves, make sure they are cut into small enough pieces so they don’t choke, and make sure that anything cooked is baked or steamed. These foods shouldn’t replace your cat’s meals, but instead should be given sparingly. They can replace packaged treats. You will also need to make sure your cat doesn’t have any bad reactions to them, so check for digestive or behavioral changes. If the food agrees with your cat, it might help them stay healthy, boost their immune system, and maintain their weight. 

At Morris Animal Inn there are some healthy treats for your cats such as mahi mahi, lobster consommé and other catch o' the day snacks. Ask about it when you make your next reservation for your favorite feline's lodging stay. 

Source: petmd.com 

Peace of Mind Your Cat is Well Cared For

It’s more likely we will lodge our dogs than our cats, but boarding cats is an option too. 

When we lodge our cat, we have someone to monitor and feed them on a regular basis, checking the litter box for regularity, giving them opportunities to play and updating us on how they're doing. We have peace of mind our cat is well-cared for.

At Morris Animal Inn, there are three options of cat lodging:

• Condos, for one cat, which have two levels in which to play and rest.
• Deluxe Condos, which have four levels for up to two cats from the same family
• Luxury Suites, which have multiple levels and climbing areas for up to five cats from the same family.

Each of these allows your cat to have

• A low-stress environment
• Separate spacious accommodations
• Comforts of home and more!

Now, if you can just get the cat out from under the bed and into the carrier, you’ll be all set. 

The Cat's Meow

You see it move, slightly, out of the corner of your eye.

Your attention is caught.

It moves again. You are vigilant, watching it closely to see what it will do next.

Your entire body is taut, ready to move.

It moves again, and you pounce.

You are a cat who just caught a toy your person has bought for you. You don’t care that you are entertainment for them; you just love the thrill of the hunt. And you know they are happy you aren’t taking this time to knock stuff onto the floor or attack them as they innocently wander past your lair.

Cats have a need to hunt, but with their indoor lifestyle, amid the cozy blankets and soft places, they often don’t get as much of an opportunity as they would like to be able to exercise those instincts they have.

The good news is that there are a number of toys—both for sale and that you can find at home—for cats that will keep them occupied and interested, such as a wand with feathers, a crumpled paper or foil ball, the red light of a laser pen (just make sure to not shine it in the cat’s eyes). Even an empty paper bag after you’ve brought home the groceries is fun for cats.

Remember that there are certain items that are not good for your cat to play with: paper clips, rubber bands, plastic bags, string, anything chewable.

Another great reason to stimulate your cat with play is that it is a bonding experience for both of you—and maybe even reduces your boredom as well.

If you need help keeping your kitty entertained, bring them to us to lodge. We have kitty chaser games, teaser sessions, a kitty playroom, kitty TV and more prey activities which is the “cat’s meow”! 

Kitty on the Prowl Video

What is Your Cat Trying to Tell You?

We cat owners know that our cats are intelligent animals, but sometimes we might not be quite so sure what they are trying to tell us.

Does your cat blink when she’s looking at you? That means she trusts you enough to close her eyes because she knows she won’t be attacked. She probably won’t do this if her pupils are very small or very large, though. That would mean that she’s scared or upset about something.

You’ll also know she’s anxious or scared if her tail is tucked down or puffed up—especially if her ears are flat too. If she’s like this, you may want to leave her alone for a little while and let her calm down. Once she’s calm, you may see some signs that she’s in a playful or affectionate mood. Her tail may be straight up, her ears attentive, or she may even let you rub her belly. If she’s being extra affectionate, she’ll knead her paws on you and rub her head on you—marking you as her territory.

And, of course, there’s the “meow.” Cats meow in many different ways, and have learned to do this in order to communicate with us; they don’t naturally meow with each other as a form of communication. They also purr, hiss, growl, chirp, or chatter.

And what cat owner doesn’t meow back at their cat, regardless of whether or not we understand what they are saying?

Dog and Cat Holiday Gift Ideas

The holidays are upon us and we all have the spirit of giving; that includes our precious pets as well.

Barkbox- When you subscribe to Barkbox, you are signing your pooch up to receive a monthly gift that includes 4-6 toys, treats, and other goodies. Your furry companion will love receiving gifts each month. Barkbox gifts start at just $20 a month.  https://barkbox.com/

Cat Dancer Wand This simple toy is sure to be a kitty pleaser! The cat dancer wand is a great way to keep your kitty busy and for you to interact with them as well! Simply wave the wand around and watch your kitty chase it. http://www.catdancer.com/cat-dancer-cat-charmer-2/#.WEhcfrIrLcc

Cat GPS tracker- PawTrack- Ever wonder where your outdoor kitty goes when they take a stroll? Now you can follow them, without disrupting their walk. The PawTrack takes positions every six minutes as your cat roams.  This information is stored on the cat tracking collar and uploaded to the server. The information can then be viewed on any internet-enabled device or computer.  This GPS tracker is able to track multiple cats and can give images on google maps including street view.  You can also set boundaries for your cat and will be alerted when your cat wanders outside of these areas.  You will receive alerts when the collar’s battery level has reached critical, so you’ll never have to worry about not being able to track. http://pawtrack.com/

Kitnip box- Just like the Barkbox for your pooch, you can order your kitty a monthly subscription to toys, all natural treats, and healthy cat products. In previous boxes, cats have received handmade catnip bells, caterpillar kicker, play-n-squeak mouse and Zuke’s G –Zees Tender Grain-Free Treats. Multi-cat boxes are also available, so no ones left out! https://www.kitnipbox.com/

Pet Chatz- You can now stay in touch virtually with your furry companion via Pet Chatz. This allows you to call your pet while you are away and video chat with them. Your pet is able to see you, hear you, and receive a treat all through a computer, tablet, or smart phone. You can also use a special accessory that allows your pet to call you. Pet Chatz makes it seem like the time away from your pets is a little shorter.  https://petchatz.com/

What do you plan to give your pet this holiday season?

(Morris Animal Inn is offering these as suggestions of types of products your pets may like.  It's always good to research specific products carefully for appropriateness for your particular pet.)

Can Your Cat's Eyes Change Color?

If you’ve had your pet from the time they were young, it’s always fun to compare pictures of them as they age. Our pets grow so quickly in their early years, sometimes a year later they are nearly unrecognizable! In cats, however, you may notice an even bigger change than physical growth. A cat’s eye color often changes as they get older, meaning it is important to recognize the difference between an expected color change and one that may indicate health problems. Vetinfo.com helps us learn what to look for.

Kittens. A majority of kittens are born with blue eyes. As their sight develops, a kitten’s eyes will begin to change and take on a range of different colors, from browns and yellows to greens, oranges and ambers. This change will likely begin somewhere between three to eight weeks of age, and be complete by the time your kitten turns three months old.

Potential Complications in Adult Life. Eye color changes after "kittenhood" could be cause for concern. Watch especially for sudden color changes over a short period of time. Changing color is commonly an indicator of an eye infection, but could also be a sign of a more serious condition. One common eye condition in cats is an eyeball inflammation known as uveitis, which can do permanent damage if left untreated. Symptoms include abnormally yellow, red or orange colored eyes. If recognized, these symptoms should be shown to your vet for proper treatment.

Lost Vision. An older cat whose eyes return to their original blue color may have experienced eye damage or be going blind. Blue eyes are not a definite indication of blindness, but you should always consult your vet if the color change occurs as your cat appears to have any trouble moving around normally.

Kitten eye color changes can be gorgeous to watch occur, but don't forget to be wary of eye color changes later in life!  If you notice any abnormal changes, please contact your veterinarian! In this case, taking pictures of your pet can be a good thing for two reasons: to make it easy to look for color changes and to hang in your office for a daily dose of cuteness!

Sources: VetInfo