Today we’d like to introduce you to the latest toys by 4cats! Our premium range of cat toys lovingly made in Germany.
Each of the cat toys in the couple’s collection comes in a set of two toys! Either provide your feline friend with a magical set of toys or allow them to share it with their feline companion.
The toys are just the right size to fit into their little paws.
And felines love rubbing them all over their face with to indulge in either valerian or catnip while enjoying the feel of the lush material.
Just remember if you have more than one feline, leave at least one toy per cat out as we wouldn’t want any arguments over the toys.
And playtime together is double the fun! Part of why 4cats decided to make this cat toy a double pack!
No matter the age of your cat, or where they like to play the new couple’s toys will soon be their new favourite.
The bonds between humans and animals are powerful. And the positive correlation between pets and mental health is undeniable.No matter how old we are, everyone finds joy in their pets. That’s why It is no surprise that studies in pets have shown that owning a pet has benefits on mental and physical health.
PDSA Vet Nurse Nina Downing says that “There are plenty of scientific studies that have proven owning a pet can be good for your physical and mental health.”
They offer companionship
Our pets give us the company we need when we can’t get out to see other people. They’re there to talk to and comfort us, no matter what. Isolation is never great for mental health, and having a pet to stop you from being lonely is a great way to combat that.
By making us more physically active
If you have a dog, you are more likely to be active. Taking care of dogs requires a lot of effort. Dogs need to be walked and they love to play. If you have a dog, you will spend a couple of hours every day walking or playing with them. Dogs love to be outside with you. All those outdoor excursions are going to do wonders for your mental health.
By boosting our self confidence
Pets can be great listeners, offer unconditional love and won’t criticise you. This can help your self-confidence, especially if you feel isolated or misunderstood. People find that it helps to vocalise their problems and having a comforting presence in the room will do wonders for your mental health.
They’re a reason to get up in the morning
Being responsible for, and looking after something other than ourselves can be all the motivation we need. It gives us something to focus on and allows us to push through the day. Taking care of a pet gives a lot of us purpose and can be a big help in getting us up to crack on with the day.
They reduce stress
Some pets can be calming. in fact, specially trained dogs are used as therapy dogs to help people or as Recovery Assistance Dogs. Owners often find their pet helps to calm them, whether it’s by talking to them or giving them a fuss.
Pets providing sensory stress relief
Touch and movement are two healthy ways to quickly manage stress. Stroking a dog or cat has the benefit of calming you down and making you feel less lonely. Lonely people often miss the sense of warmth that comes from being isolated. That’s why petting your cat or dog brings so much relief.
They help us develop good habits
Feeding, exercising and caring for a pet can help you keep to a daily routine. This can help you feel more grounded and focused. It can also give your day purpose and a sense of achievement. Over time, this constant routine will develop into some good habits, like waking up early, going on lots of walks and eating at the right time.
They help us meet new people
Dogs make it easier to meet new people. They get you out of the house every day, normally at the same times which allows you to see the same people at the same time. Having that sense of familiarity with the people around you means that taking the next step to talking to them is much easier. Yet, more often than not, people will approach you and your dog. Oftentimes they will ask what breed they are, how old they are and if they can pet your dog. All these are great conversation starters that can lead to more fulfilling conversations.
They need us too
We owe it to our pets to take care of them as well as we can and this includes providing for all their needs. Taking care of a pet can make us feel needed. That’s why so many people make sure they are doing everything they can to give their pets a comfortable life. This sense of purpose can reduce depression and loneliness.
By bringing us happiness everyday
Unconditional love brings happiness to us all. If you have a dog, the way they react when you come home triggers the love and support most of us want and need. All the other benefits of being more active, meeting more people and always having a companion ensures that we have more happiness in our lives.
Kris Hill from the Society for Companion Animal Studies (SCAS) talks about how we can show our pets how much they are loved and support those in need
Monday 20 February 2023 is Love Your Pet Day!
Of course, you love your cat every day, even when they scratch on the sofa or cough up a hairball on your pillow. Your cat also knows you love them, even when you grumble about getting woken up too early.
So why not have a special day when we can demonstrate to the world how much we love our pet cats, and tell everyone how special they are?
SCAS understands how special our pets are! As a charitable organisation, SCAS is dedicated to supporting research, promoting best practices, and advocating for policies that help both pets and people. Read more about SCAS here.
It’s not about expensive gifts!
How can you celebrate Love Your Pet Day with your beloved companion? Unlike some humans, cats are never impressed by the price tag (unless it can be repurposed as a toy!). Have you ever purchased a fancy cat bed, only to find your cat prefers the box? Maybe your cat shuns the expensive robotic fish toy in favour of a bottle top? What cats love the most is time spent with you (either playing, walking, snuggling, or sitting in quiet companionship).
See here for some inexpensive ideas to show your pet how special they are. And listen to what Jackson Galaxy says is the best cat toy in the world!
Caring during the cost-of-living crisis
When we invite cats into our home, we like to believe we can meet their basic needs – time, exercise, proper nutrition, and veterinary care. However, circumstances can change due to injury, ill-health, redundancy, or any number of curve balls life might throw at us. Unfortunately, the current cost-of-living crisis is seeing many more of us struggling to make ends meet. The anxiety of not being able to provide for a beloved pet can cause considerable emotional stress. The Blue Cross and RSPCA offer advice and support for anyone struggling to cope with the cost of food or healthcare for their pets.
If you are fortunate enough to be able to provide for your pet and indulge them with expensive toys, perhaps spare a thought for the less fortunate? Show your love for your pet by donating a few tins of cat food to a foodbank or donate to a shelter or animal welfare organisation. Maybe you and your pet can do a fund raiser together? See here for some fun and creative (and pet-friendly) ideas on how to involve your pet in raising funds to help others.
If your own pet was adopted from an animal shelter, supporting that organisation can be a truly meaningful way to demonstrate how much you love them!
MaryMae & PeterLe (above) recently found their forever home with me!
Follow us on FB and Twitter (@SCASuk), and be sure to retweet posts from us and our partners on #PetsInHousing
SCAS is the UK’s leading human-companion animal bond organisation through funding research, providing education, raising awareness, encouraging best practice, and influencing the development of policies and practices that support the human-companion animal bond. For more details check out our website at www.scas.org.uk
Renovations can occasionally be part of the reality of being a homeowner. Sometimes you may need to perform extensive work to mitigate developing structural problems. You might also feel your home needs to be updated to support your quality of life. Whatever the reasons behind the renovations, there are various practical elements you need to keep in mind while planning.
If you have a cat, one of the primary considerations is how they fit into the process. While the work on your home may also benefit them, there are various aspects of renovations that can negatively impact the welfare of your feline friend.
We’ve put together a few tips for how you can proceed with your home renovations when you have a cat.
Consider Whether to Stay at Home
Renovations can take a variety of different forms. Not all activities strictly require leaving the house for a period of time. Nevertheless, it’s important to carefully consider all the positive and negative factors surrounding staying at home during your renovation work. While you can certainly save some money by not leaving the house, there may also be safety hazards that make it wise to do so. One of your key areas of thought must be whether being in the property is the right decision not just for you but also for your cat.
Safety is a vital aspect here. Look at whether the type and extent of the work being performed could directly injure your cat. This should include the potential for falling items, sharp objects, and unstable structures. You should also examine how your cat might be affected by high volumes of dust or toxic fumes. If in doubt, take the time to talk to your contractor about this. They’ll be able to explain what you can expect from the project and also what safety measures they can take to protect your cat.
It’s also worth considering the fine points of your cat’s disposition. Not all animals react the same way to renovation work. Are they curious enough to stray into exposed crawl spaces or play with building materials? Do they have a habit of chewing on electrical wires? Perhaps they’re particularly sensitive to noise? It may be the case that their personality or behaviour makes it more sensible to take them away from the property during renovations.
Your cat is likely to have specific needs when it comes to its surroundings. You may have discovered when going on family vacations that they find hotel rooms too confining or the outdoors overstimulating. Whether you’re staying at home or taking some time away during renovations, you need to make sure the surroundings are suited to your cat’s needs.
If you’re planning to keep your cat around during renovations, it can be wise to limit its access to areas currently undergoing work. This can involve moving their bed, food and water bowls, and toys into rooms you specifically designate as their roaming spaces. If there is likely to be a lot of noise, you might want to take soundproofing measures such as hanging heavy curtains over doors and insulating walls with foam panels.
On the other hand, if you’re staying away from home, you need to be sure your cat is being taken into the right environment. Your cat may have mobility challenges, which means you need to ascertain whether your location has accessible elements. It’s also important to ensure any other animals living in the space can coexist with your cat.
One option could include heading back to your parent’s place for a while. However, it’s important to understand that living with your parents again can be a challenging experience. Make sure you keep communicating about one another’s needs and agree on clear boundaries. This may include respecting their boundaries on where your cat should and shouldn’t go. Talking about these elements beforehand can help you establish in advance whether this is the right environment for you and your cat.
Renovation work can be particularly stressful for cats. After all, they can be quite territorial animals. The idea of strange contractors entering their space and making a lot of noise can understandably put them on edge. If you’re keeping your cat at home, it’s important to manage stressful experiences.
On a general basis, ensure they have components of comfort within easy access. Give them a space to retreat to. This might include setting up a form of a nest with their bed or favourite blankets in a quiet corner of the home. Surround them with the little things that bring them joy. Ensure they have toys and take the time to play with them regularly. Giving your cat some attention can be both reassuring and stress-busting at difficult times.
It’s also wise to get to know the signs that your cat may be experiencing stress. Common stress-induced behaviour during building works can include eating or drinking less, pacing, and overgrooming. If you can recognize these actions, you’re better able to respond effectively to them.
When you’re planning renovations, it’s important to consider how they might affect your cat. Look into whether it is practical or safe to keep them in your home while work is going on. Take the time to ensure they have supportive and appropriate surroundings wherever they are. Provide resources to mitigate the stress they might experience as a result of noise or the presence of contractors. With a little forethought, you can act in the best interests of your cat while also performing those important renovations.
Valentine’s Day celebrations have arrived at Woburn Safari Park, as keepers and animals celebrate love around the Park!
Romance was on the menu for 19-year old Rothschild’s giraffe Casper and potential love interests Kimmy and Freya, as they shared a special moment over some delicious roses, butternut squash and sweet potato heart-shaped treats.
Jenny Fisher, Senior Keeper, says: “Casper has been incredibly successful in the past when it comes to the ladies, and we’re hoping that it’s something that we might be able to repeat again this year with Kimmy and Freya! It’s a case of wait and see for the next few months, but we’re hopeful and trying everything we can to help the breeding programme along.”
Whilst the giraffes enjoyed their tasty treats, Mirijam, Mkuzi and Bonnie – the female Southern white rhinos – dove straight in to the besties boxes that keepers had lovingly wrapped for them. Their “galentine’s” set up was offered as part of the physical enrichment activities, designed to keep their minds and bodies active.
Mirijam and Mkuzi have been fan favourites at Woburn for over a decade, but the trio have lived together happily in the reserves at the Park since Bonnie moved in during May 2021.
Jenny said: “Like any girl gang our rhinos are really close, but that doesn’t mean that there isn’t the occasional squabble – especially when youngster Bonnie is being particularly boisterous! But they are the best of friends and any bickering is all forgotten very quickly.
Creating pieces of enrichment for the rhinos is always a bit of a challenge as they’re so large and everything has to be on a much bigger scale, so it’s great to see them showing their love for each other with this galentine’s build – and working together on it’s total destruction!”
Keepers also prepared some primate playdates in the Land of Lemurs and African Jungle so the lemur troop and Barbary macaques could join in the fun, with a buffet feast including different fruits and vegetables like beetroot, squash and leafy greens, all up for grabs in individual treat bags and boxes.
Visitors wanting to see their favourite safari animals for themselves are in luck – Woburn Safari Park is now open daily, with tickets currently on sale until the end of April. For tickets, opening times and special offers see the website, www.woburnsafari.co.uk
Arthritis in dogs and cats is one of the most common problems our pets can face as they get older and, as with humans, it can flare up in cold weather.
Natural wear and tear, caused by aging, reduces the amount of cartilage that cushions the joints. This causes swelling and pain.
Signs of arthritis in your pet include stiffness or a reluctance to exercise, which we usually notice in our pets after they have been resting. If they are struggling to groom themselves, are overly licking areas that might be painful or are protective of you touching certain areas then they will need to be seen by the vet.
PDSA Vet Olivia Anderson-Nathan said: “Pets with arthritis may seem to have a little less energy, preferring to curl up in their beds instead of going out on a walk or spending time in the outdoors. Cats can struggle to groom themselves properly and may have a noticeable deterioration in their coat quality.”
Arthritis can’t be cured, but it can be managed through medication and simple changes to a pet’s lifestyle.
Olivia adds: “It’s worth visiting your vet if you notice any symptoms, or suspect your pet may have arthritis. Pain-relief and anti-inflammatory medication can be prescribed, and you’ll also be advice given on changes you can make at home to help make your pet more comfortable.
“Maintaining a healthy weight is very important because excess weight puts even more pressure on sore joints. It’s worth asking your vet about prescription diets or joint supplements for arthritis too, as these can beneficial.
“When it comes to exercise, ‘little and often’ helps keep joints mobile and puts them under less pressure than longer walks with extended periods of rest. Your vet or vet nurse will be able to give you an appropriate exercise and diet programme that is unique to your pet’s needs.”
Hydrotherapy, physiotherapy and acupuncture can also be helpful to relieve the difficulties and pain associated with arthritis. Ask your vet for a referral to an accredited specialist.
A typical treatment plan for a pet with arthritis could include:
Medication prescribed for your pet by their vet to reduce pain and swelling
Prescription diets or nutritional supplements that may improve joint function or reduce inflammation
Changes to your pet’s diet to keep them a healthy weight and size
Regular periods of short gentle exercise
Hydrotherapy, physiotherapy and other complementary treatments, if advised by your vet
Caring for an arthritic pet involves understanding from their owner, but with careful management and treatment, affected pets can still enjoy a good quality of life.
PDSA is the UK’s leading vet charity. We’re on a mission to improve pet wellbeing through prevention, education and treatment. Funding from players of People’s Postcode Lottery helps us reach even more pet owners with vital advice and information. www.pdsa.org.uk
Forget Valentines, celebrate Pal-entine’s with your affectionate feline friend!
St. Valentine’s Day might make the perfect romantic occasion for some, but for those who aren’t loved up it can be a bit of a drag. This year, the RSPCA are encouraging cat owners to celebrate Pal-entines with their affectionate pet pal instead.
Pets are complex and without being able to ask them, it’s sometimes hard to tell how they really feel. But just in time for February 14, RSPCA cat behaviour expert, Samantha Watson, has shed a little light on the mystery and revealed five ways cats show affection for their owners.
Samantha, scientific officer at the RSPCA said: “There are a number of ways our cats tell us that they enjoy our company and feel safe with us. Learning to read your cat’s body language is hugely beneficial as not only can it show you how they feel about you, but it will enable you to spot signs of stress and understand when they want to be left alone.
“Cats are often thought of as being a bit aloof, but they do give away some subtle body language cues that show how much they like you. Humans are always keen to feel their pets adore them, but it is important to remember that every cat is an individual, and sadly not all cats will want to interact with you.”
According to Samantha, the top five ways to tell if your cat enjoys your company.
Headbutts
“Whenever a cat rubs their head or cheek against you, they are actually transferring some of their own scent onto you and marking you as a trusted friend rather than foe” said Samantha.
“By marking you with their scent they are effectively recognising you as part of their social group. Scent is one of the most important senses to a cat, and mixing their scent with yours is a key part of bonding.”
Eye contact and slow blinking
“For cats and many other animals, eye contact can be something very threatening, so if your cat is looking at you with relaxed, soft, or almond eyes this is a good indication that they feel comfortable in your company” said Samantha.
“Slow blinking is also a sign your cat is fond of you, that they trust you and don’t feel the need to be on guard in your company. Researchers have found that cats are more likely to approach a person who slow blinks at them. If you want to show them you return their trust, mimic their slow blink back to them.”
Tail up greeting
“You can tell a lot about how a cat is feeling by looking at their tail position and movements. A low swishing tail can indicate they are feeling stressed or unhappy, but a tail pointing upwards with a downward curve at the tip is a sign they are really happy to see you.
“They might even approach you with a short ‘peeping’ or ‘trilling’ sound which is also a sign they are pleased to greet you.”
Social roll and showing their tummy
“A popular misconception is that when a cat shows you their tummy, they want it rubbed. Stomachs are a very vulnerable area for a cat, and most cats don’t like to be touched there,” adds Samantha.
“When a cat rolls over to show you their belly, they are greeting you and testing out whether they can trust you. A good response is to give them a head rub and show them their trust has been well placed. Don’t be surprised if you get a scratch or a nip in response to stroking their belly!”
Allogrooming
Samantha said: “Cats lick or groom other cats in their social group to both create a bond and to create a group odour. This scent helps cats to tell who is part of their social group. If your cat licks you, it’s a pretty safe sign that they are trying to bond with you. However, owners should be aware of excessive licking, which can be a sign there is something wrong.”
But what about those cats not in their special fur-ever home this Pal-entines Day?
Whilst some cats are lucky enough to have a loving home, others have been waiting a long time to find their forever home. There’s plenty of cats in RSPCA care who are hoping their perfect family will come forward and spread the love this Pal-entine’s Day, including:
12-year-old Tinkerbelle is waiting at RSPCA Canterbury & District Animal Centre for her purrrfect family. She has been overlooked for almost 500 days, whilst her feline companions have all found new homes. Tinkerbell is a low maintenance and very loyal cat, who has a very sweet and affectionate nature and would enjoy a quiet environment. Through no fault of her own, poor Tinkerbell has had to be rehomed a few times, and now she is struggling to find a forever home. Tinkerbell is very clean, doesn’t scratch furniture and has shown no signs of wanting to hunt. Could you be Tinkerbell’s Pal-entine?
A year ago poor Midnight was in bad shape, but – after having her life turned around by the RSPCA – she’s ready to be rehomed. When Midnight arrived at the RSPCA Wimbledon, Wandsworth and Sutton District Branch in February last year, she was underweight and very poorly. The brave girl has clawed her way back to health, and would make a great pet pal for someone who is experienced in dealing with diabetes. Midnight is a gentle cat with a lovely, chirpy nature. She’s very chatty and full of energy, she just needs someone to give her a loving home.
Mother and daughter duo, Flic and Fifi came into RSPCA care after their owners were unable to take care of them. Fifi is very relaxed and loves a fuss and Flic is a little more outgoing. Both cats have been at Llys Nini Animal Centre in Swansea for over a year. They need to be rehomed together and ideally in a rural area. Could you be their Pal-entine and offer them a loving new home?
Frosty might look like a tough guy, but he truly is the sweetest boy who loves nothing more than having lots of gentle strokes and fuss. Frosty has a sweet purr and enjoys close human company. This lovely chap is waiting at RSPCA Findon, Golders Green, Hendon & District branch for his paw-fect home. After living as a stray, this lovely boy is now looking for a calm, loving home, where he has space to play and explore. He has an inquisitive nature and enjoys spending his time investigating the new smells, sounds and sights around him.
If you’re searching for a home remedy for ear mites in cats…we feel your pain!
Our sweet fluffy friends love to explore. Whether they’re roaming the garden or the neighborhood streets, their adventures can bring home with them a few unwanted visitors.
Ear mites are a common ailment amongst cats, and can also be passed to humans if not intercepted quickly.
Worse yet, these tricky little pests like to cling to furniture and bedding. And even if you don’t have a cat of your own, coming into contact with an infected cat can put you at risk too.
While these mites are a nuisance, they can be treated, and like anything, it’s always best to catch it early!
In this article we take you through the signs and symptoms of ear mites in your cats so you know what to look out for. As well as the best ways totreat the mites, including some home remedies to try, helping you to rid your home of ear mites for good.
Shall we get going then?
Key Takeaways – Home Remedy for Ear Mites in Cats
Ear mites can be picked up from your kitty exploring outside or visiting popular animal areas (like the groomers)
They can cause a huge amount of itchiness and discomfort for cats, so catching them early is vital
Signs and symptoms of ear mites in cats include: scratching, shaking their head, dark brown substance building in ears, inflammation and irritation, plus more
Some home remedies for ear mites in cats include: organic honey, Vaseline, apple cider vinegar, aloe vera, olive oil and coconut oil
Home Remedies for Ear Mites in Cats
Ear mites are unpleasant little parasites that cling to your cat’s ears and cause itchiness and discomfort.
They set up camp in the ear canal and sometimes even branch out to the surface of the skin.
Cats will often pick ear mites up outdoors, like in grassy or woodland areas, or in other animal-frequented locations such as the groomers or pet shelters.
Ear mites are not life threatening. But they are extremely uncomfortable and can cause your cat a considerable amount of distress and irritation.
Ear mites can be passed from your cat onto other animals and even humans. So it’s vital to recognize the signs and symptoms of ear mites in your cat, to stop the spread of these nasty little critters.
Signs and Symptoms of Ear Mites
Some of the main symptoms to look out for that may indicate your cat has been infected with ear mites include:
Ear scratching
Shaking their head
Scratches, cuts and hair loss surrounding the ears
A dark brown substance building up inside their ears – this may look like coffee grounds
The flap of their ear has begun to droop
Visible inflammation and irritation
Pus and visible signs of further infection
Strong odor emanating from the ears
If left untreated, it is possible for an ear mite infestation to result in bacterial infections and the tearing of the eardrum. This can lead to further complications such as partial or full hearing loss.
Once you are able to recognize and identify the signs and symptoms of ear mites in your cat, the quicker you can intercept the issue, get it treated, and have your kitty happy, healthy and up to their old tricks again.
Traditional treatments for ear mites
If you think your cat has ear mites, the number one priority is to consult your vet to ensure a proper diagnosis and to rule out any other conditions or health issues.
Your vet will likely prescribe a course of ear drops to help clear up the mites. They may also offer further guidance and advice on how to stop the spread of the mites and decontaminate your home from these unwelcome guests.
After diagnosis, your vet will typically clean your cat’s ears and prescribe a course of systemic or topical treatment solution. This is to eradicate the mites and ensure your cat’s return to comfort.
It is vital that you complete the vet-recommended course of treatment, even if it looks like the mites have cleared up. By not fully completing a course of treatment, it can result in a re-emergence of the mites. And then you and your furry friend are back to square one.
While it is always recommended to consult your vet with any concerns, particularly when it comes to infectious conditions such as ear mites, we know some pet parents prefer not to use chemical treatments on their fur baby.
In that case, you can try researching a holistic vet in your area (which we talk about in our article: Holistic Veterinarians for Cats Explained.) Alternatively, there’s natural home remedies for ear mites in cats.
So here’s some of those natural home remedies to treat pesky ear mites, and also provide your cat with more comfort and relief from the unpleasant symptoms mites bring with them.
Natural home remedies for ear mites in cats
Here’s a few home remedies for ear mites. So you can eradicate the mites and offer some soothing relief for your cat’s symptoms.
Organic Honey
Honey is naturally antibacterial and antifungal, and is often used as a natural antiseptic, helping to heal cuts and wounds.
Not only that, honey contains beneficial antioxidants and is safe for cats to ingest. This makes it a great treatment option for any pet parents whose cat likes to sample things they shouldn’t!
Only ever use raw or organic honey (unpasteurised). This is because store brands are often predominantly sugar syrup and do not contain the beneficial properties of natural honey.
Get a cotton ball and put it in a small amount of raw or organic honey. Then, rub the honeyed cotton ball in your cat’s ears and allow the honey to sit for 20 – 30 minutes.
After this time has passed, wipe the honey away gently with some warm water.
This process should be repeated twice a day until the mites have completely cleared up.
Not just a family favorite lip balm for the colder months, Vaseline has also proved an effective treatment for ear mites.
Also known as petroleum jelly, this product has intensive soothing properties. It also boasts effectiveness as an antibacterial, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory treatment, aiding the recovery of minor burns and cuts.
Apply the Vaseline twice a day to your cat’s ears. Repeat the process until the mites have been eradicated.
While this is a very soothing product, be wary around cuts and abrasions. The thick texture of Vaseline can actually trap bacteria and dirt in the wounds, which can then result in further discomfort and complications.
Be sure to keep any cuts and wounds well cleaned, to reduce the risk of further infections.
Also be aware that cats should not ingest Vaseline. So take any necessary precautions to make sure your cat doesn’t get a taste of their treatment.
Renowned for its health benefits amongst humans, apple cider vinegar can also be a beneficial ear mite treatment for cats. Not only does it help kill off bad bacteria, it can also reduce an animal’s blood pressure and cholesterol — pretty magic stuff, huh!
Fill a spray bottle with a half portion of the apple cider vinegar and half a portion of water and shake it up. You must dilute the vinegar.
Ensure that the spray feature on the bottle is gentle, to avoid the vinegar getting into anything other than the ears.
For 10 days, spray the affected ears with the solution once or twice a day. Keep an eye on the progress of the healing.
Do not use this solution if your cat has open sores. The high acidity of the vinegar can be extremely uncomfortable if it comes into contact.
Be wary to keep the solution away from your cat’s eyes. And watch for an allergic reaction in your feline friend, as some cats have an adverse reaction to apple cider vinegar.
A super soothing natural remedy, aloe vera is a firm favorite amongst humans for aiding in the healing of burns and calming skin irritations.
Apply the aloe vera to your cat’s ears until the mites have gone – easy as pie!
It is important to be aware that the aloe vera plant is toxic for cats, and so it is vital to ensure that your cat does not ingest any of the plant itself.
Not just a delicious dip for breads, olive oil is also antibacterial and can help reduce inflammation.
Coconut oil has also become something of a health super-substance, known for its skill in fighting off bacteria, fungi and viruses. It also aids in weight loss and helps to lower the risk of heart disease.
Warm up your oil to a comfortable temperature – it must not be too hot. Then get a few drops and gently massage it into your cat’s ears.
Repeat this process several times a day, for up to 10 days.
Last Tips for Ridding Your Cat of Ear Mites Naturally
So, what have we learned about how to rid your sweet kitty of these bothersome critters?
Ear mites are unpleasant parasites which affect the ears of both animals and humans. They can be passed from one host to another.
They can cause intense itchiness and discomfort, as well as inflammation, infection, and in some cases torn eardrums and subsequent hearing loss.
The treatment of ear mites should be taken seriously as the mites are pretty infectious. When treating ear mites, it is vital to complete any course of treatment prescribed by your vet to ensure total eradication of the mites.
If you are ever in any doubt regarding ear mites in your cats, consult your vet to receive a full and correct diagnosis. Do this before proceeding with either medical or at-home treatments.
Natural remedies such as raw or organic honey, Vaseline, apple cider vinegar and olive oil or coconut oil can be great home remedy options. Especially if you prefer not to use chemical treatments on your cat.
So there we have it! Help your kitty keep those pesky mites at bay with appropriate vet prescribed treatment. Or if you prefer a more natural approach, give one of these home remedies for ear mites in cats a go.
The health and happiness of our sweet boy Yoda is always top of our list, and so we make sure to keep a close eye on him and check regularly for signs and symptoms of ear mites.
Catching things early is often the key to a quick and full recovery, and so the sooner you intercept the symptoms the quicker your cat will be back on their feet and causing mischief.
As always, we love hearing from you. And we’d love to know if you have any safe and natural at-home remedies for ear mites, especially if they have proved effective for your kitty. Get in touch and let us know.
Tickets are now on sale for the Animal Welfare Foundation’s annual Discussion Forum, which will not only be packed full of expert speakers and key animal welfare debates but will also proudly celebrate 40 years of fantastic work by the charity.
The Animal Welfare Foundation, which is the British Veterinary Association’s (BVA’s) charity, turns 40 this year. The Discussion Forum, on 6 June 2023 at One Birdcage Walk in Westminster, is one of the highlights of the charity’s calendar and will mark this milestone during the day by looking back at the charity’s work – which has included investing more than £2 million into research – and at how animal welfare has changed and progressed since it began. The event will include special talks by beneficiaries of AWF, including Professor Donald Broom, whose AWF funded animal welfare professorship at Cambridge University was a world first that transformed the study of animal welfare within veterinary education.
There will be plenty of opportunities to network during the day and also at a celebratory evening drinks reception, which will include an appearance by guest speaker Giles Yeo MBE, a geneticist and professor of Molecular Neuroendocrinology. He will share anecdotes from his career and insights on his work, which focusses on the role of genetics in obesity and includes a research project on the ‘fat gene’ and how it affects obesity in Labradors.
The event, which is open to the whole veterinary community, animal welfare professionals, students and policy makers, will host expert speakers who will delve into key cross-species welfare topics, including technology, environmental sustainability, diet and welfare and human behaviour change.
Prior to the event, delegates will be invited to take up the opportunity of getting on stage themselves in brand new “lightning sessions”. These will run throughout the day separate to the main sessions and will give delegates the chance to talk about the welfare issues and topics they are passionate about.
The programme for the event is continuing to evolve over the coming weeks but so far it includes a discussion and debate on ‘Technology and welfare’ exploring the benefits and risks of new and innovative veterinary technology to animal welfare across multiple species, with particular focus on ‘animal welfare monitoring technology’ and the role of the vet professional in this area. Joining the panel is equine vet and founder of the Equitrace app Kevin Corley and Professor Jonathan Statham, who is Chair of the Animal Health and Welfare Board (AHWBE) for England. They will be joined by Nicola Blackie, Senior Lecturer in Production Animal Science at Royal Veterinary College.
Another session, ‘Human Behaviour Change – Influencing owner behaviour and preventing welfare issues’, will focus on the science of human behaviour change in relation to animal welfare issues and will help to empower delegates to apply new skills and knowledge while in practice. It will be led by Suzanne Rogers and Jo White of Human Behaviour Change for Life and will focus on issues around breeding and introduce the audience to practical techniques to influence owner behaviour for better welfare.
‘Diet, sustainability, and animal welfare’ will be debated by an expert panel examining environmental sustainability and its implications for animal welfare, focusing on human and animal diets. The panel, which includes Head of Research at Compassion in World Farming Sarah Ison; CEO of Agri-EPI Dave Ross, Rob Percival of Soil Association and Dr Hillary Pearce, Associate Manager of Professional and Veterinary Affairs at Hill’s Pet Nutrition, will discuss if an effective balance between environmentally sustainable food production and animal welfare is possible.
AWF’s Chair of Trustees Julian Kupfer said: “AWF’s Discussion Forum is always an energetic, insightful and inspirational debate. It provides veterinary professionals with an important, safe space to explore and engage with often difficult issues, such as contentious subjects like overtreatment and the link between human and animal abuse. The Forum provides delegates with the opportunity to deepen and evolve their understanding of animal welfare as well as being a vital catalyst for action. As AWF celebrates its 40th anniversary, we look forward to sharing our reflections of the past four decades and the important work of the Foundation.”
BVA President Malcolm Morley added: “The Animal Welfare Foundation’s Discussion Forum is a unique opportunity to network with and hear from experts from across the veterinary and animal welfare sector as well as discuss and debate key issues and concerns. The Foundation has done so much good in the past 40 years, so this is not only a chance to celebrate an amazing milestone but also to reflect on the difference the charity has made and how it can continue to fight for future improvements to animal welfare.”
To find out more about the AWF Discussion Forum and book your ticket, visit www.animalwelfarefoundation.org.uk/discussion-forum-2023/You can also follow the conversation on Twitter, via @AWF_VETS and using the hashtag #AWFDebate on the day.
· Have you ever wondered what your pet really sees when they look at you?
· New interactive tool lets you see the world through a dog, cat, rabbit and bird’s eyes
Ever wondered what it’d be like to see yourself through your pet’s precious eyes?
Well, a new tool can now show you, allowing you to add pictures of yourself and toggle on the eyes of the different pets. Animals don’t have the same eyes as humans and can see the world in a very different way, including fields of vision, and colours, with some even seeing colours we can’t see.
TrustedHousesitters, a global pet and housesitting site created the interactive tool, looking at the science behind the eyes of pets, and using technology that allows people to discover how their furry (or feathered) friends see everyday life. People can upload a picture here of anything for a glimpse into the eyes of their pet.
Here is more of the science behind our pets’ eyes:
How dogs see the world
There’s a myth that dogs only see in black and white, however, they can see colour but only in blue and yellow, as well as shades of grey.
A dog’s vision is actually comparable to the roughly 9% of humans with red-green colour blindness, with red, orange and green out of a dog’s colour spectrum meaning they can’t see them.
Pooches also have an increased field of view, as their eyes are more spaced apart than humans, so they have more side vision.
How cats see the world
In studies, cats don’t appear to be able to see the full range of colours that humans can. Some scientists say they can see shades of blue and gray, whilst some think they can see some green. Because of this, cats rely more on detecting motion—which is where they get their cat-like reflexes.
They do have a wider field of view than humans (200 degrees instead of 180 degrees) and a greater range of peripheral vision, meaning they can spot that mouse or toy moving in the corner. They also have better night vision, as they are active at night and during the day. Interestingly they don’t see as well in brighter light and things can look more blurry to them.
How rabbits see the world
Rabbits have a particularly peculiar vision, with the world appearing grainy and even two-dimensional at close ranges.
They can see better in the dark than humans and have a pretty close to 360-degree vision, due to having their eyes on the side of their head, but are limited to two-colour vision.
How birds see the world
Not only can birds see the same colours as humans, but birds can see colours that are completely invisible and inconceivable to humans—mind-boggling!
A human’s vision is trichromatic, meaning we detect light from three types of retinal cone photoreceptors – red, green and blue light. A bird’s vision is known as tetrachromatic, meaning they have the ability to detect wavelengths in the near ultraviolet range.
Angela Laws, award-winning community manager of TrustedHousesitters, commented:“The bond we share with our pets is so special, and truly understanding how they perceive the moments and life we share with them makes that bond even stronger.
“We created this tool to allow people to learn more about pet vision—from understanding your pet’s favourite colour to realizing how they see you, it can give owners a newfound understanding of their best friend—furry or feathered.”
