Cats are natural climbers and observers, drawn to high places where they can perch, play, and survey their world. Providing cat trees and perches isn’t just about giving them a fancy accessory—it’s essential for their mental and physical health.
Throughout the article, we will discuss how these vertical spaces offer opportunities for exercise, mental stimulation, and cozy rest, keeping your feline friend happy, active, and stress-free.
Cat trees encourage climbing, jumping, and stretching—turning your kitty into an acrobatic superstar! Regular movement keeps their muscles toned, joints healthy, and prevents weight gain. Bonus: It’s the cutest workout you’ll ever watch!
In multi-pet households, finding a personal space can be a challenge for your feline friend. A tall perch on a cat tree provides them with a sanctuary where they can retreat without feeling the need to hide under a bed or behind furniture. This elevated haven allows your cat to observe the action from a safe distance, reducing stress and helping them feel secure.
Boredom in cats isn’t just about a lack of entertainment—it can lead to unwanted behaviors like overgrooming, aggression, furniture destruction, and even inappropriate elimination.
Cat trees, with their dangling toys, multi-level platforms, and climbing opportunities, are the ultimate boredom-busters. They provide the mental and physical stimulation your cat craves, keeping their energy focused on play rather than mischief.
Scratching is more than just a quirky habit—it’s essential for your cat’s health and well-being. Most cat trees come with built-in scratching posts, giving your feline a designated spot to flex those claws. This satisfies their natural urges, protects your furniture, and offers several benefits.
Scratching helps maintain healthy nails by shedding the outer layers and prevents overgrowth. It also allows cats to mark their territory by releasing their scent through glands in their paws. Plus, scratching provides a full-body stretch, working the muscles in their paws, legs, and back, keeping them limber and feeling great.
Cats are naturally curious and thrive on mental engagement, making a cat tree the perfect tool to keep their minds sharp. These multi-level structures provide endless opportunities for exploration, from climbing to surveying their surroundings. The varied textures, platforms, and toys on a cat tree engage their senses—touch, sight, and even smell if it’s sprinkled with catnip.
A perch near a window lets them watch birds, squirrels, or the world outside, adding visual enrichment and satisfying their instinct to observe. A cat tree creates a dynamic environment where your cat can stay mentally and emotionally balanced.
A centrally located cat tree isn’t just a fun play area; it’s a bridge between your cat and your family’s daily activities. Placing the tree in a common area gives your cat a safe and secure space where they can observe and participate without feeling overwhelmed or the need to hide.
Interactive play with feather wands or treats on the cat tree transforms it into a bonding spot, where you can share quality time together. Being involved in the family’s energy helps your cat feel less lonely and more connected. By offering them a perch in the heart of the home, you’re building trust and strengthening your bond while ensuring they feel like part of the family.
Cats are world-class nappers, often snoozing up to 16 hours a day. A cat tree offers the ultimate cozy retreat, with multiple platforms and levels to choose from, letting your feline pick their favorite napping spot based on their mood. Whether they want to lounge in the open sunshine or curl up in an enclosed cubby, a cat tree provides options that suit their preferences.
Investing in a cat tree isn’t just about décor—it’s a way to enrich your cat’s life, giving them a space to stay active, entertained, and relaxed. So, what are you waiting for? Time to upgrade your cat’s castle!
Keeping our pet’s mind and body active is essential for their overall well-being! Pets, like us, thrive when they have both mental stimulation and physical activity.
Interactive toys and puzzle feeders are a fantastic way to challenge your furry friend, keeping them engaged and preventing boredom. It lets them utilize their natural instincts of hunting and foraging for food. They also offer some hidden health perks—like improving digestion, maintaining healthy weight, and promoting mental health.
These fun and functional tools are more than just toys; they help create a happier, healthier lifestyle for our pets!
Interactive toys and puzzle feeders are clever tools designed to challenge your pet’s brain while keeping them active. Interactive toys, like treat-dispensing balls and snuffle mats, make your pet work for their rewards, encouraging problem-solving and play.
Puzzle feeders, such as slow feeders, are designed to make mealtime more engaging, slowing down fast eaters and promoting better digestion. There is a lot of overlap and crossover between the two with their benefits and format. You may find an interactive toy like a Kong can be used as a slow feeder with their wet food.
These fun items turn everyday activities into exciting challenges, helping our pets stay mentally sharp and physically healthy!
Puzzle feeders and interactive toys are like brain games for our pet, keeping their mind sharp and engaged! These clever tools make our furry friends think, solving problems to earn treats or food, which helps reduce boredom, anxiety, and depression.
Mental stimulation can be surprisingly tiring, leaving our pet happily exhausted after working their brain. Regular engagement also boosts problem-solving skills and may even slow down cognitive decline as they age, potentially helping with conditions like Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD).
Many refer to CCD as “Doggy Alzheimer’s” as you see similar symptoms such as, forgetfulness, repetitive behaviours, changes in sleeping patterns, looking lost, and increased anxiety. The best recommendation is to keep the brain active and stimulated to strengthen the memory and keep it functioning at it’s best.
So not only do these toys provide entertainment, but they also give our pets a satisfying mental workout keeping their minds strong and happy!
These puzzle toys aren’t just for brainpower—they’re also a wonderful way to keep your pet’s body in shape! When your furry friend plays with treat-dispensing balls or puzzles, they get plenty of physical exercise that helps them stay fit and maintain a healthy weight.
As they move around and interact with these fun gadgets, they’re burning off calories and staying active, which helps prevent obesity and keeps them in tip-top shape.
Additionally, slowing down their eating helps them feel more satisfied by their meal and they feel fuller when they are finished. This also results in less begging for more food or human food from us.
Puzzle feeders and food dispensing toys are like digestive superheroes for our pets, making mealtime both fun and beneficial! When our furry friends use a puzzle feeder, they eat more slowly, which helps prevent choking. It also prevents them from gorging on the food with it all coming back up moments later.
This slow eating also reduces the amount of air swallowed, a key factor in preventing bloat and Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV). GDV is a serious condition where the stomach expands with gas and twists on itself, which can be life-threatening.
It is extremely painful and deep chested breeds are more predisposed to GDV. This includes breeds like Great Danes, St Bernards, Standard Poodles, Dobermans, and Old English Sheepdogs. By encouraging slower eating, puzzle feeders help minimize the risk of this dangerous condition.
Additionally, the challenging design of interactive toys and feeders promotes thorough chewing and proper mechanical food breakdown. As your pet works to retrieve their meal, they chew more slowly, which helps in the initial digestion process.
This thorough chewing breaks food into smaller, more manageable pieces, aiding in better digestion and nutrient absorption. This means less chance of overeating, reduced risk of gastrointestinal upset, and a happier, healthier gut for our companions!
Interactive toys and puzzle feeders are the perfect way to keep your pet out of trouble! These fun challenges keep your furry friend engaged, reducing boredom and lessening separation anxiety, which are often at the root of those troublesome habits.
By giving them a fun challenge, these tools help channel their energy into something productive, like figuring out how to get a tasty treat. Instead of chewing up your favourite shoes, or scratching the furniture, your pet stays happily occupied with brain-boosting tasks.
Plus, the mental and physical effort they put in can tire them out, making them less likely to engage in destructive behavior later. It’s a win-win: a happy, busy pet and an intact home!
Interactive toys and puzzle feeders come in a range of materials to suit our pet’s preferences and feeding style.
By choosing the right material, we can cater to our pet’s eating habits, dietary needs, and cleaning preferences!
For pets that love to chew or are prone to destructive behavior and/or boredom, it’s important to keep an eye on them during puzzle time, especially with new toys! Soft materials like snuffle mats, lick mats, and even some plastic puzzles can be tempting for a pet who’s more focused on tearing things apart than solving the puzzle. It is always a great idea to supervise sessions to ensure playtime is fun and safe!
Interactive toys and puzzle feeders offer a delightful blend of benefits for your pet! They keep our furry friends mentally sharp, physically active, and aid in better digestion by promoting slower, more thorough eating. These clever tools also help prevent negative behaviors by channeling excess energy into positive activities.
Are you ready to enhance your pet’s life? Visit with our healthy pet associates to find the perfect interactive toys and puzzle feeders for your furry companion. Try these fun solutions and watch your pet enjoy a happier, healthier lifestyle!
Green tripe isn’t just a quick fix for your pet’s health – it’s a long-term investment in their well-being. While it provides immediate benefits like improved digestion and boosted energy levels, its impact goes far beyond that. By regularly including green tripe into your pet’s diet, you’re laying the foundation for long-term health maintenance.
Its rich nutrient profile supports overall health and vitality, helping to prevent various health issues down the line. From promoting a shiny coat to supporting a strong immune system, green tripe sets your pet up for a lifetime of thriving. So, whether you’re looking to address a specific health concern or simply want to give your pet the best chance at a happy and healthy life. Green tripe from PetKind is the ultimate solution.
Green tripe is sourced from the stomach lining of ruminant animals like cows, lamb, or bison. It’s a natural superfood full of protein, important amino acids, good fats, and lots of vitamins and minerals. It ensures a nutrient-rich profile that elevates your pet’s daily nutrition to new heights.
Green tripe undergoes minimal processing, crucially remaining unbleached and natural. This makes sure that the nutrients are maintained, offering pets a wholesome and unparalleled source of nourishment.
Pet parents are turning to tripe to address various dietary needs and health concerns. Whether it’s tempting picky eaters, seniors, and sick pets to eat, or boosting their daily diet, green tripe is a nutritional powerhouse. Its amino acid profile, perfect calcium-phosphorus ratio, and abundance of essential fatty acids make it an ideal supplement for aiding in overall health and well-being.
Additionally, tripe’s soothing properties can alleviate sensitive stomachs, relieve allergy symptoms, and ease diet transitions. From nourishing adult working dogs to refreshing seniors, green tripe supports pets at every stage of life. Known for promoting healthy brain and bone development, particularly beneficial for large breed puppies. With the help of its vitamins and minerals, healthy fats, and proteins, green tripe will bolster your pet’s bowl!
The importance of amino acids cannot be overstated. As the building blocks of protein, they serve as the foundation for many bodily functions in your pet, from muscle growth and repair to the creation of enzymes and hormones. Green tripe’s variety of amino acids ensures that your pet receives the full spectrum of nutrients needed for optimal health, contributing to their overall strength and resilience.
From promoting muscle growth and tissue repair to supporting immune function and hormone regulation, the diverse set of amino acids in green tripe plays a crucial role in every part of your pet’s health, contributing to their liveliness and longevity.
Let’s dive into the major amino acids found in green tripe and their functions in promoting pet health.
| Amino Acid | Function |
| Alanine | -Essential for glucose metabolism and energy production -Supports urinary health -Improves blood quality -Prevents kidney stones |
| Aspartic Acid | -Plays a role in brain and nervous system function -Supports cognitive health and mood regulation -Boosts stamina -Supports strong immune system |
| Arginine | -Essential amino acid for dogs and cats -Crucial for nitric oxide synthesis -Promoting a healthy cardiovascular system -Supports immune health |
| Glutamic Acid | -Acts as a neurotransmitter -Fuels brain function and cognitive processes -Boosts metabolism |
| Glycine | -Supports the synthesis of collagen for healthy skin, coat, and joints. -Boosts stamina -Improves blood quality -Plays key role in maintaining DNA composition |
| Leucine | -An essential amino acid -Involved in protein synthesis -Maintains strong joints -Promotes muscle growth and recovery |
| Proline | -Plays a role in collagen formation -Contributes to skin elasticity -Supports wound healing |
With the above of amino acids overflowing in green tripe, your pet can get all the nutrients they need to be healthy and active.
Green tripe serves as a natural source of fat, but no need to worry, the majority are good fats. It is rich in beneficial unsaturated fatty acids. Unlike saturated fats found in many processed foods, the unsaturated fats in green tripe offer numerous health benefits.
| Type of Fatty Acid | Properties | Health Implications |
| Saturated Fatty Acids | -No double bonds -Straight/linear structure -Pack tightly together -Solid at room temperature (butter, lard, etc.) | -Diets high in saturated fats are linked to high LDL (“bad”) cholesterol -Builds up in arteries causing plaque -Raises blood pressure and risk of heart disease |
| Unsaturated Fatty Acids | -One or more double bonds -Bend/Kink in structure -Loosely packed together -Liquid at room temperature (avocado and olive oil, etc.) | -Can help reduce LDL (‘bad”) cholesterol -Helps maintain healthy blood pressure and blood sugar levels -Helps to lower risk of cardiovascular diseases |
Pets need fatty acids to stay healthy. Omega-3, 6, 9, and 12 fatty acids are especially important for many body functions. These unsaturated fatty acids support the brain by enhancing cognitive function and aiding in neurotransmitter signaling.
Additionally, they bolster the immune system, ensuring pets can effectively fight off infections and diseases. Also, Omega fatty acids can help keep the heart healthy by reducing inflammation and supporting its functions. They also help joints feel better by easing stiffness and making them more flexible.
Pets need Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids to stay healthy, but their bodies can’t make them on their own. They have to get these nutrients from their food. Omega-3s can help fight inflammation, lowering the chance of long-lasting diseases. They also keep the heart and joints healthy, help the brain work well, and make pets’ coats shiny and their skin healthy.
Omega-6s are important for immune system function, hormone regulation, and skin health. Balancing the intake of Omega-3s and Omega-6s is key to promoting overall health and well-being in pets. Green tripe makes it worry-free as it has the perfect Omega-3 to Omega 6 fatty acid ratio.
Green tripe offers a vital vitamin and mineral boost! Provides an optimal balance of calcium and phosphorus, which is essential for bone and teeth health in pets. It is hard to find this perfect balance naturally. It is required for the proper development of strong skeletal structures, particularly in large breeds.
If there’s too much or too little calcium and phosphorus, pets can end up with skeletal and bone problems and health issues. With green tripe, the balancing act is already done, creating a superior and safe dietary supplement.
Green tripe is full of important vitamins and minerals, like essential vitamins B3 (niacin) and B12 (cobalamin). Niacin plays a crucial role in energy metabolism, nervous system function, and the maintenance of healthy skin and coat. Niacin deficiency can lead to symptoms such as poor growth, digestive issues, and dermatitis.
Cobalamin is really important for making red blood cells, helping nerves function, and making DNA. Without enough of it, pets might get anemia, have nerve problems, or feel weak.
Green tripe also has lots of minerals that pets need to stay healthy, like magnesium, zinc, selenium, and iron. Each one has its role for keeping pets well. Magnesium is vital for nerve function, muscle contraction, and bone health. Zinc supports immune function, wound healing, and carbohydrate metabolism.
Selenium aids in DNA production and metabolism. It also acts as a powerful antioxidant, aiding immune function and thyroid health. Iron is essential for oxygen transport in the blood and energy metabolism.
Not having enough of these minerals can make pets’ immune system weak, slow down healing, and make muscles weak and pets tired. Giving pets green tripe in their food can stop these problems and keep them healthy and feeling good.
Immediate benefits of green tripe consumption for pets include improved digestion, increased energy levels, and enhanced nutrient absorption. However, the true power of green tripe lies in its long-term impact on pet health.
Regular consumption contributes to overall health maintenance by providing a steady supply of essential nutrients. Promoting healthy skin and coat, supporting strong bones and teeth, and boosting immune function. As pets keep eating healthy food like green tripe, it helps stop long-lasting health problems, makes them live longer, and makes their lives better.
Using green tripe for preventative maintenance offers a holistic approach to pet care. Supporting cardiovascular health, digestion, and immune function. Green tripe gives pets important nutrients and helps their gut flora stay healthy. This may stop them from getting sick with upset stomachs, autoimmune problems, or allergies.
Green tripe’s nutrients can help keep blood pressure and blood sugar levels normal, which reduces the risk of health problems like diabetes. Including green tripe into your pet’s diet boosts overall well-being, ensuring they lead happy, healthy lives for years to come.
PetKind, a family-owned and operated Canadian business, is dedicated to making it easy for all pet owners to give their pets tripe with a range of convenient products. There are green tripe options suitable for every pet’s diet and lifestyle. Their sourcing of premium ingredients is exclusively from Canada, USA, and New Zealand. Recipes are free of any artificial preservatives, by-products, corn, soy, grains, or wheat.
In PetKind’s Tripe Dry line, green tripe is the main ingredient in every recipe, making sure pets get all the benefits from this healthy superfood. After tripe, each recipe includes fresh meat as the next ingredient, giving pets a fantastic source of protein. It is a complete and balanced option suitable for cats and dogs of all life stages and breed. Best of all, Tripe Dry lacks the typical strong smell that comes with tripe, making it a more pleasant feeding experience for pet owners.
If you want more moisture in your pet’s food, no problem! PetKind has lots of options to help you add tripe and keep your pet hydrated.
People love the Tripett canned food line because of its simple recipe and great quality. It only has tripe as the main ingredient. Designed for supplemental feeding, Tripett offers pet owners a straightforward and nutritious option to enhance their pet’s diet.
Many Tripett recipes have one source of protein, making it easier for pet owners to handle any food allergies or sensitivities. Additionally, Tripett offers combinations of different proteins, providing pets with a variety of flavors and nutrients to make mealtime enjoyable and delicious.
The That’s It recipes by PetKind are another delightful addition to any pet’s diet. These recipes are made with limited ingredients such as the superfood green tripe! Alongside other wholesome ingredients like fresh meat and broth, green tripe adds an extra boost of essential nutrients. These simple but healthy recipes aren’t complete and balanced by themselves, but they’re made to enhance your pet’s regular meal.
PetKind has made it simpler than ever to incorporate the nutritional benefits with Tripe Treats! These treats are healthy and tasty, giving your pet a way to enjoy snacks without feeling guilty. They are crafted with a focus on wellness and desirability.
The treats have an easy-to-break-apart design. You can use them as a reward during training or give them to your pet as a healthy treat anytime. They are suitable for all dogs, including picky eaters and those with sensitive stomachs.
PetKind offers several lines that include tripe, including dry food, wet food, and treats. These provide an easy and nutritious way to treat your pet and keep them healthy. To learn more about their company and variety of products they provide, please follow the link to their website. https://petkind.ca
Green tripe is full of important nutrients like amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids, making it a nutritional powerhouse for pets. When you add green tripe to your pet’s food, with help from PetKind, you’re giving them the gift of good health and energy.
As pet parents, taking preventative steps to care for our pets, like feeding them green tripe, can truly impact their well-being in the long run. Let’s continue to prioritize their health and happiness by giving them the best nutrition possible.
Welcome to the world of sustainable pet parenting, where our furry friends and the planet team up for a brighter future! As pet lovers, we know the joy and responsibility that comes with caring for our four-legged friends. But in today’s world, being a pet parent means more than just providing food and shelter. It’s about making conscious choices that benefit not only our pets but also the environment they live in.
Let’s explore conscious buying habits in pet care, where each purchase can create a positive change. We’ll showcase brands that make excellent products while also supporting causes, cutting their carbon footprints, and leading the way in sustainability from start to finish.
So, get ready to unleash the power of sustainable pet parenting as we explore how our choices can make a difference, one paw at a time!
One way we can make a difference as pet parents is by picking brands that help out with causes and communities. In the pet care world, some brands don’t just sell their product – they’re on a mission to make a positive impact on the world.
Take Almo Nature & Fondazione Capellino Foundation, for example. Set up in 2018, this nonprofit foundation uses all the money it makes to protect biodiversity and fight climate change through its Reintegration Economy model. This shows they’re committed to giving back to nature.
Similarly, Earth Rated has helped out over 11,000 organizations, including pet-related ones like SNAP Quebec. They’ve also supported big projects like global healthcare systems through partnerships with organizations like (RED).
But the paw-sitivity doesn’t stop there. Petcurean actively participates in their community by assisting with various projects. They donate time and resources to support groups that feed pets and plant trees to help bees and fight climate change.
Project Hive is all about saving bees. They’re working to create healthy places for bees to live by planting wildflowers. Their goal is to make 50 million feet of habitat by 2025.
Sweat Scoop cares about the future and not just because they have all-natural cat litter. They’re teaming up with Plastic Bank to help clean up the oceans by collecting and recycling plastic. West Paw also gives back by volunteering and donating to good causes. Both these brands show how businesses can make an impact while still making great products for our pets.
Pet parents can make a significant impact on the planet by choosing brands with their Paws on the Planet. When we check out brands that make stuff in eco-friendly ways and have carbon-neutral factories, we can help lower our pet’s carbon paw-print. These committed companies really care about the environment. They work hard to ensure their products don’t hurt the planet during production, from getting the materials to disposal.
Companies like Beco, Earth Rated, Nature’s Hug, Made Better, Petcurean, Project Hive, The Honest Kitchen, and West Paw are leading the charge in reducing emissions and greenhouse gases. They are putting in the work to figure out and cut down on how much their products hurt the environment over their whole life.
They’re showing everyone in the pet care world how to be more eco-friendly. By choosing products from these environmentally conscious brands, pet parents can play a part in creating a greener and healthier planet for their beloved pets and future generations to enjoy.
We have the power to make a meaningful impact by choosing brands that prioritize sustainability. These brands not only focus on environmental benefits but also uphold social and economic considerations, ensuring a holistic approach to sustainability. When you support companies that get their raw materials in a way that doesn’t hurt the planet, treat their workers fairly, and help out their communities, you’re helping make the pet care industry more fair and earth-friendly.
When you see logos like B Corp Certification and the Pet Sustainability Coalition (PSC) on product packages, it means the brands are really serious about being eco-friendly. These logos help you know which brands care about the planet. Companies like Beco, Earth Rated, Earth Animal, Made Better, Project Hive, The Honest Kitchen, and West Paw proudly show off these certifications, proving they’re committed to doing great things for the planet and following eco-conscious business practices.
Also, pet parents can look for products with packaging that can be composted or are made of recyclable material. Brands like Almo Cat Litter, Earth Rated, Made Better, and Sweat Scoop care about reducing waste and using eco-friendly materials in their packaging.
When pet parents pick brands that care about paw-sitive sustainability, they help make the pet care industry better. Together, we can make the planet healthier for pets and people, making the future brighter for everyone.
Pet parents can make a positive impact on their pets’ health and the environment by choosing brands focused on paw-some eating. The pet food industry is changing with new options like plant-based protein and insect-based protein. These choices are better for the environment compared to traditional meat diets.
Insects and plant-based options for pet food need less land, water, and food compared to animals. That’s a great choice for pet owners who want to be planet-friendly.
Beyond their eco-friendliness, alternative protein diets offer numerous health benefits for pets. Insects and vegetables have lots of vitamins and minerals that pets’ bodies can use easily. providing complete and balanced diet for our furry companions. These diets are particularly beneficial for pets with common protein allergies or sensitivities, offering premium nutrition without compromising on taste, quality or comfort.
Brands that make insect protein pet food include FirstMate Kasiks, GO!, Made Better, and Pulp Habits. Natural Balance and Petipet have created plant-based options. By picking these brands, pet parents can feed their pets well, help the environment, and support a better future for everyone.
At Global Pet Foods, we dedicate ourselves to offering pet products that are friendly to the planet. We also aim to help pet owners adopt eco-friendly practices every day with your pets. Beyond choosing sustainable brands, pet parents can make a difference by adopting environmentally conscious habits in their everyday lives. Easy tasks like turning off lights when you leave a room, fixing leaks to save water, using water-saving appliances, and unplugging electronics when you’re not using them can help make the future more green.
Also, pet parents can make their carbon footprint smaller by cleaning up after our pets, using waste bags that break down naturally, and picking eco-friendly pet litter. When we can, using public transportation or carpooling instead of driving alone helps cut down on emissions and makes the environment cleaner.
By adopting these eco-friendly habits into our daily routines, pet parents can significantly reduce their environmental impact. At Global Pet Foods, we believe that collective efforts, both big and small, can lead to significant positive change. Join us in our mission to create a world where pets and the planet thrive, one sustainable action at a time. Together, we can make a lasting impact for future generations.
We celebrate the journey of sustainable pet parenting, where every choice counts towards a greener future. We’re dedicated to providing eco-friendly products and helping pet parents learn about them.
Our goal is to make sustainability easy and enjoyable for everyone. We’re building a community of pet lovers who care about making a difference. This includes supporting brands that give back and adopting eco-friendly habits in our everyday lives.
Join us in our mission to create a world where pets and the planet thrive! Let’s choose brands that care about the planet, speak up for what’s right, and inspire others to join us in making the world greener. Together, we can make a positive change and leave behind a legacy of love and care for our pets and the environment.
So, you’ve decided to expand your family with a furry addition – congratulations! Starting this journey is exciting and touching, but it also brings many responsibilities. From tail wags to potty incidents, adopting a new pet brings love, laughter, and a few surprises along the way.
Before getting a pet, it’s important to get ready – for both your new pet’s health and your own! A bit of preparation can help make things easier for you, other pets in the household, and your new pet. So, buckle up, grab your squeakiest toy, or entertaining cat wand, and let’s embark on this adventure together!
Before you take the plunge into pet parenthood, it’s essential to do some detective work on your chosen furry friend. Every pet breed or species has its own unique set of needs, quirks, and predisposed conditions. By learning about their needs, you can make sure they fit into your life and that you’re ready to take care of them.
Whether you’re welcoming a playful pup or a wise old senior, understanding their age-related needs and potential health issues sets the stage for a happy and healthy life together.
Get ready to dish out some love! Their diet is key to their health and happiness. It is their fuel to thrive! Some pets do best on raw or fresh diets, while others prefer the convenience of kibble or wet food.
Be aware of potential food allergies and sensitivities that may come up – be on the look out for tummy troubles or dry itchy skin! For big breeds, keeping the calcium to phosphorus ratio 1:1 is important to keep their bones strong and avoid orthopedic issues. Our healthy pet care specialists are happy to help you find top-quality options to fit every family.
So, get ready to serve up a meal fit just for them – your furry friend will thank you with tail wags and purrs aplenty!
Finding the perfect veterinarian can be like discovering the holy grail of pet care! If you’re a raw food fan, or a holistic healer, or a traditional care giver, finding a vet who gets your furry values is key.
This will create the most consistent and positive experience for everyone involved in your pet’s healthcare team. Once you’ve found your and your pet’s perfect match, schedule that all-important first appointment. Your visit is the perfect time to talk about vaccinations, preventive care, spaying or neutering, and any health problems common to your pet’s breed. Being proactive about your pet’s health sets the stage for a lifetime of tail-wagging wellness!
| Essentials | Things to Consider |
| Food & Water Bowls | – Want to find the right bowls for your pet’s life stage, height, and age. – Consider slow feeder bowls for eager eaters. – Raised bowls can benefit taller or older friends. – Stainless steel bowls are ideal for raw/fresh diets: more bacterial resistance. – Want to ensure a constant supply of fresh water, water fountains can be helpful. |
| Toys & Stimulation | – Keep boredom at bay with engaging toys and activities. – Select toys that match your pet’s size, life stage, and chewing behavior. – Include teething toys for puppies and kittens. – Focus on both fun and mental/physical stimulation and enjoy the bonding time. |
| Grooming | – Grooming needs can vary widely based on species, breed, and hair coat type. – Equip yourself with the right tools: nail trimmers, combs, brushes suited to your pet’s coat, shampoos, and conditioners. – Introduce grooming practices early but slow with lots of praise and treats. – Regular grooming keeps your pet looking their best and lets you check for any strange signs or health problems. – This is also an excellent chance to spend one on one time with them to truly bond. |
| Sleeping Space | – Pick a sleeping spot that fits what your pet needs, like a crate, a raised bed for better airflow, or a soft bed for more comfort. – Especially for older pets, consider a comfy bed or mat to protect them from the hard floor, as it can make them sore. – Their own spot can be crucial for their well-being, allowing them to feel secure and comfortable in their environment |
| Leashes & Collars/Harnesses | – Step out in style and safety with a durable leash and comfortable collar/harness. – Choose the right collar or harness based on your pet’s pulling tendencies and your training preferences. – Many leashes come in water-resistant materials or with two hooks for different uses, fitting your lifestyle better. |
| Identification | – Identification can be a lifesaver: ensure your pet has a microchip and a clear ID tag. – Keep your contact info up-to-date for added safety and peace of mind. |
Creating a safe environment for your new furry friend is essential for their well-being and your peace of mind when bringing them home. Prepare your home by pet proofing, securing toxic substances and small objects that could pose a choking hazard.
Consider installing baby gates to restrict access to certain areas and ensure all electrical cords are safely tucked away. Setting up a dedicated space for your pet to sleep, eat, and relax is crucial for their comfort and security. Choose a cozy corner or room, with minimal traffic, where they can retreat when they need some alone time.
When introducing your new pet to their home, take it slow and steady, especially when it comes to meeting other animals in the household. Consider quarantining them initially until they’ve been vaccinated and dewormed to prevent the spread of parasites or illness.
Start by introducing them to one room at a time, gradually expanding their territory as they become more comfortable. Offer plenty of positive reinforcement and patience during these interactions. Allow them to explore at their own pace and provide plenty of cuddles and reassurance along the way. By following these strategies, you’ll create a welcoming and stress-free environment, while ensuring the health and safety of all pets in the household.
Training and socialization are the building blocks of a well-behaved and happy pet! Start by establishing a consistent routine for feeding, potty breaks, and exercise, helping your furry friend feel secure and confident in their environment.
Early training sessions are key for teaching obedience and house manners, setting the stage for a harmonious household. But it’s not all work and no play – socialization is equally important! Give your pet chances to meet other animals and people, like in puppy classes, playdates, or park walks.
It’s a good idea to prioritize safety, especially if your pet isn’t fully vaccinated yet. With patience, positive reinforcement, and plenty of love, you’ll have a well-rounded companion who’s ready to take on the world!
Preparing for a new furry friend is an exciting journey filled with love, laughter, and a few essential must-haves. From researching your pet’s specific needs to creating a safe and welcoming environment, we know you’ve got this.
Remember the importance of routine, training, and socialization in fostering a happy and well-adjusted pet. Cherish the joy and fulfillment that comes with responsible pet ownership – the wagging tails, the playful purrs, and the unconditional love that brightens our days.
As you embark on this adventure, be patient and compassionate as your new pet adjusts to their forever home. With a little time, plenty of cuddles, and heaps of love, you’ll create a bond that lasts forever. Here’s to many sloppy kisses and endless memories with your new furry family member!
As our furry companions gracefully age, they become more susceptible to a range of common illnesses that can impact their health and vitality. The golden years bring wisdom and charm, but also potential health challenges for our senior pets. Understanding and recognizing these common illnesses is crucial for pet parents to provide the best possible care, ensuring our aging companions enjoy a comfortable and happy life. Let’s dive in!
As pets enter their golden years, metabolic changes and decreased activity levels make them particularly susceptible to weight gain. Obesity in senior pets can lead to a myriad of health problems, including joint issues, diabetes, respiratory problems, and cardiovascular diseases. The added weight exacerbates conditions like arthritis, making movement painful and contributing to a sedentary lifestyle that further compounds the problem. This not only diminishes their overall quality of life but also increases the risk of chronic ailments, limiting their ability to enjoy their senior years with us to the fullest.
Diet plays a pivotal role, and our healthy pet care specialists may recommend a specialized senior pet food that addresses their nutritional requirements without excess calories. Smaller portions spread out multiple meals, coupled with regular exercise, can aid in weight loss, and improve overall mobility. It’s essential to monitor progress closely with regular body condition checks and adjust the treatment plan as needed. Additional interventions may be recommended such as medications or supplements to support weight loss and manage associated health issues.
Preventing senior pet obesity is key to ensuring healthy and active sunset years for our furry friends. Losing the weight once already on is much more difficult than preventing the weight gain to begin with. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to monitor weight and identify potential health concerns early on. Pet owners should focus on providing a balanced and age-appropriate diet, adjusting portions as needed to maintain a healthy weight. Incorporating regular, low-impact exercise into a senior pet’s routine, such as gentle walks and interactive play, can help prevent weight gain and promote joint health. By being proactive in both treatment and prevention, pet owners can contribute to a longer, happier, and healthier life for our senior companions.
As our beloved furry friends gracefully enter this period, they may encounter arthritis, a condition that causes pain and inflammation in the joints. It can be both managed and prevented with a little extra care but if left unaddressed, it can significantly alter their quality of life. You might notice your once sprightly companion taking a bit more time to rise from their cozy spot or showing a preference for leisurely strolls rather than high-energy play. Unfortunately, many symptoms of arthritis are mistaken as part of the “normal” aging process.
| Symptoms |
|---|
| – Difficulty with stairs and getting on/off furniture – No longer using their favourite perches – Less active and sleeping more often – Limping or lameness – Loss of muscle mass in backend – Trouble squatting for bathroom or more accidents in the house – Increased irritability or sensitivity to touch |
The diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive examination, where your pet’s joints are gently assessed, and blood work and X-rays may be recommended to rule out any underlying condition, such as bone cancer. X-rays are also used to assess the degree of degeneration. There is no cure for arthritis but there are treatments to slow the progression and ease the discomfort. Treatment options often include medications to ease pain such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatories and joint supplements like glucosamine, chondroitin, omega-3s, and much more to promote flexibility and mobility. In some cases, alternative therapies such as massages, physical therapy, hydrotherapy, and acupuncture has been shown to improve mobility and quality of life.
Preventing arthritis involves embracing the role of a proactive pet parent. Keep those tails wagging and kitty paws padding by maintaining an ideal weight through a well-balanced diet, as extra pounds can put unnecessary stress on joints. Including joint supplements before symptoms occur can help hold off any progression. Regular exercise, even in the form of gentle play or short walks, is the key to keeping those joints limber. With a combination of love, attention, and a watchful eye, you can ensure your senior companion continues to age gracefully.
While navigating the world of senior pet health, we often encounter the challenge of diabetes mellitus, a condition that affects our older furry friends much more frequently than their younger counterparts. Keep an eye out for an increase in water consumption and more frequent bathroom breaks—key signs that your pet might be dealing with diabetes. You may also notice cloudy eyes, especially in dogs, and reoccurring infections. If your once spry companion is suddenly less enthusiastic about playtime and seems to be losing weight despite a hearty appetite, it’s time for a trip to the vet’s office.
Diagnosis is made based on the clinical signs discussed and persistently high levels of glucose in the blood and urine. Fear not, for the treatment journey is paved with love and care. Managing diabetes in senior pets may involve a combination of insulin injections, a carefully tailored diet, and regular monitoring of their glucose levels. Their diet and feeding schedule is very important. Pet parents will want to feed them the same food, in the same amount, at the same time each day so our furry friends can achieve consistent insulin regulation. Prognosis is good, as long as we are committed to treatment and monitoring. If caught early, treatment may lead to remission, where they are no longer considered diabetic and do not require insulin therapy, though regular monitoring is still recommended.
| Preventative Measure | Tips/Reasoning |
|---|---|
| Maintain a healthy weight | – Obesity is a well-known leading cause of diabetes – Control portion sizes, treats, and access to human food – Regular exercise |
| Healthy diet | – Quality ingredients with high protein content and minimal carbohydrates – Single ingredient high protein treats are best |
| Regular Vet Visits | – To discuss their eating habits and identify any subtle changes – Regular blood work/urinalysis to diagnose and treat early for best chance of remission |
Embarking on the delightful journey of senior pet companionship may bring us face to face with kidney disease, a condition that demands a thoughtful approach to our aging friends’ well-being. The kidneys act as a filtration system, removing many waste products from their blood. Normally, these waste products are eliminated through the urine. When kidneys are not functioning to full capacity, due to damage, aging or other processes, waste products are no longer filtered and build up in the bloodstream.
| Symptoms | |
| Compensated Kidney Failure | The earliest signs: – Increased thirst – Increased urination |
| Advanced Kidney Failure | – Loss of appetite and weight loss – Lethargy – Vomiting & Diarrhea – Bad Breath |
If you spot these signals, a visit to the veterinarian’s office becomes a necessary step towards understanding and addressing kidney concerns in our furry companions.
Blood tests and urinalysis take center stage, unveiling clues about our pet’s kidney function and overall health. The bloodwork will assess the levels of waste products such as blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and blood creatine (CREA) which indicate decreased kidney function. Also, high levels of SDMA (a naturally occurring indicator of kidney function) can help indicate the early stages of kidney disease before BUN and CREA levels will indicate an issue. The blood test will also show levels of substances like albumin, minerals like phosphorus and calcium, as well as white blood cells to help determine the best course of treatment.
| Kidney Disease Treatment | |
| Phase 1 | Phase 2 |
| – High doses of intravenous fluids are given to flush out the kidneys and bloodstream. – Helps mildly damaged kidney cells function again – Helps replace various electrolytes, especially potassium | – The second phase of treatment is to help keep the kidneys functioning as long and as normal as possible by using one or more of the following: – The Diet – A Phosphate Binder – Home Fluid Therapy – Proteinuria Therapy |
Preventing kidney disease can be a tricky task as there can be a variety of causes. Kidney disease can be inherited, and many responsible breeders have taken steps in preventing the chronic disease within their breeding program. Many acute cases are due to our little friends ingesting toxic substances such as antifreeze, grapes, pesticides, and some plants, so we need to do our best to prevent their access to these items. The infectious disease leptospirosis is also a culprit behind kidney disease and can be prevented through regular vaccination. The best prevention we can provide our pets is a healthy diet, appropriate exercise, and regular vet visits to keep them healthy and happy for as along as possible and catch any changes right away.
On our senior journey with our pets, and especially our cats, we might encounter thyroid imbalances, where hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism play their quirky roles. Hyperthyroidism is increasingly common in senior cats and becomes a higher and higher risk as they get older. This is similar to its counterpart hypothyroidism, though not as common, and is seen mostly in senior dogs.
| Hyperthyroidism | Hypothyroidism |
|---|---|
| The overproduction of thyroid hormone and the subsequent increase in metabolism. Many organs are affected, especially the heart Most commonly seen in senior cats | Condition caused by the inactivity of the thyroid gland leading to low levels of thyroid hormone and a low rate of metabolism. Affects many organ systems. |
| Symptoms | Symptoms |
| Restless, increased aggression, increased vocalization, weight loss despite ravenous appetite, high blood pressure The high blood pressure can lead to cardiomyopathy, retinol detachment and kidney disease. | Weight gain without appetite, lethargy, cold intolerance, dry coat & increased shedding, increased ear & skin infections, high blood cholesterol, and slow heart rate. It can also cause abnormal functioning of the nerves causing lameness and lack of coordination. |
| Diagnosis | Diagnosis |
| Blood test performed to look for high levels of TT4. | Blood test performed to look for low levels of TT4. Confirmed with low levels of T4 when a “Free T4 by ED” test is performed. |
When it comes to hypothyroidism, there is no cure, but treatment with lifelong medication can help them live a normal happy life. Hyperthyroidism has a few treatment options. They do have the option of oral medication to restore the normal levels of thyroid hormone that requires regular blood tests to monitor for rare, but serious side effects. There is also the choice of treating our purrfect friends by feeding an iodine-limited diet to lower the levels, but must be the only food fed, including treats. In some cases, your veterinarian may be able to offer radioactive iodine therapy which destroys the abnormal thyroid tissue without endangering the other organs. With surgery, they may also be able to remove the affected thyroid gland(s) to treat the condition. In both of these cases, recurrence is rare.
As we wrap up this exploration of common illnesses in our senior pets, let’s remember that each sneeze, shuffle, or slower tail wag tells a unique tale of aging and resilience. Our furry friends may face their share of health hiccups as they gracefully enter their golden years, but with a sprinkle of love, a dash of veterinary care, and a pinch of preventive measures, we can ensure that their senior journey remains as charming and delightful as their youthful escapades. Understanding and embracing the quirks of our senior companions allows us to be the best partners in their journey through the whimsical landscape of aging. Here’s to more years of cuddles, joy, and health for our beloved senior pets!!!
Written By
Taylor Luther
Marketing Lead, Customer Engagement
Taylor completed a Bachelor’s Degree in Animal Biology at the University of Guelph and has built up experience within the pet nutrition industry and the animal medical field. She has a passion to share all insights on pet nutrition and health for all of our furry (feathery, scaly or otherwise) friends.
We all know aging is a natural part of life, but that doesn’t make it any easier to accept when our furry companions start to show signs of the process. Though some deep searching, there is no cure for aging. However, we can do our best to slow down the progression with different lifestyle modifications and keep them healthy and comfortable so we can share many happy memories with them.
There are several factors that contribute to the overall health and the aging process of each individual pet. Breed, genetics, physical activity, and nutrition are just a few factors that affect the age at which pets enter this life stage. For instance, large and giant breeds may enter their senior stage at 7 or 8 years of age, while small breeds may reach it at 11 or 12 years of age. When it comes to our feline friends, they are typically considered seniors from 10-12 years of age. As they reach this milestone, we may see their pace slow, nap times increase, weight loss or gain, and coats become thin and grey. There will also be some harder to spot changes that could include a slower metabolism and a decreased immune function. Many pets, and especially cats, are very good at hiding their pain and discomfort, so it is a good idea to know all the signs and symptoms to look out for.
A few changes to take note of for your next vet visit would be:
Some of the signs are just a part of being senior, but some may be indicative of a serious health concern that we want to get ahead of.
Mental and physical stimulation helps our pets enjoy their life as normal as possible for as long as possible. Many studies show you can slow the progression of age-related degeneration for both areas by adding a few activities and exercises into your routine. These moments are also an excellent chance to bond with our pets even further, and it is never too late to get started. For cats, environmental enrichment is essential to provide the physical exercise and mental stimulation that’s needed. This ranges from places to climb, places to hide, places to scratch and ways to hunt/play. Keeping them active with daily play time is very important and the use of interactive feeding toys will keep them physically and mentally stimulated for overall great health. As our cats age, we may need to look at these categories a little differently and consider mobility, but we will touch on that later on. With our canine counterparts, we have a lot more research and options for improving and maintaining their physical and cognitive health, though you could attempt some of the below suggestions with more adventurous kitties as well.
Mental stimulation is a perfect way to prevent boredom, encourage engagement with people, other pets, and their environment, keeping them happy and healthy. Taking our forever pups on sniff walks is an excellent option for mental stimulation. Not only does it let them explore at their own pace, but it also allows them to track every scent that interests them with the safety of our supervision. We can also never get enough of our puzzle feeders and snuffle mats for our furry friends. They are an excellent mental stimulation tool leading up to and throughout their golden years as they come in such a wide variety of difficulty levels. Another suggestion is trick training. Of course, keeping their abilities in mind, trick training can be another fun way to add mental enrichment to their routine no matter the weather.
Increasing age does not have to mean decreasing activity. Our furry friends still want to play, sniff, and explore. Like many things in life, moderation is key. There may be some trial and error, but we want to find the exercise that works best for us and our pet that keeps them limber, prevent unnecessary weight gain or loss, and encourage appetite, while still keeping any limitations in mind. The more common options are slower strolls and low impact activities like swimming, but there are also canine calisthenics.
Canine calisthenics are strength and flexibility exercises that are meant to target the areas that our seniors need help with the most. These exercises can have a big impact on their quality of life both physically and mentally as they are able to continue their normal routines. Many are focused around preventing the loss of strength in the limbs, especially the rear limbs, as well as the loss of proprioception, which is the ability to know where their feet are. We are going to go over 3 calisthenic exercises that we can do at home with minimal equipment. It is a good idea to start with a warmup and finish with a cool down such as a 5-minute leash walk. You will need treats for encouragement as we want to aim for 1-3 sets of 2-5 reps of each exercise, every other day.
| Power Posing | |
| Performing a few basic obedience moves on various surfaces. | |
| The Benefits | Help to tone the abdominal wall, spine, shoulders and hips. |
| Supplies | Start on a non-slip floor. Can also use a yoga mat, pet bed, or mattress. Start on the floor and progress to harder surfaces. |
| How To | Start with pet standing on all fours with paws on the surface of choice. Progress through the commands of sit, down, sit, down, stand, down, stand. That equals one repetition. If they do not know the cues, we can lure them into each position using treats. |
| Building up the Rear | |
| Placing front feet on an elevated platform and stretching neck up lightly. | |
| The Benefits | Naturally, pets frontload 60-70% of their weight onto the front limbs. This exercise shifts weight onto rear limbs and firms them up. |
| Supplies | Any platform. A thick book (or multiple books taped together), non-slip step stool or step up on porch or deck. |
| How To | Using a treat, lure them to a standing position with their front feet on the platform. Their shoulders should be directly over their wrists as they look slightly upwards. While they do this, we stand in front of them and slowly feed about 10 small treats over 10 seconds to get them to maintain the position. This would be one rep. Once they’ve mastered 10 second repetitions, try working up to 30. *If our pet is eagerly leaning forward for the treat, the weight and shoulders have shifted over the wrists, and you end up working the forelimbs instead of the hindlimbs. If their position is ever off, walk them off the platform and try again. |
| Lateral Walking | |
| Stepping sideways in a step-together-step move. | |
| The Benefits | Engages the supporting muscles of the hips and shoulders in a sideways motion, called adduction and abduction. Helps to prevent shoulder and knee injuries and fortifies the stabilizing muscles. They will be better at changing direction, regaining balance after a misstep and getting on and off furniture safely. |
| Supplies | An area with enough space, such as your living room. You may use a textured surface or mats. |
| How To | To laterally step left, start with your pet on your left, facing the same direction. You want your pet’s shoulder to be aligned with your leg. With one hand, put treats in front of their nose and take a small step with both feet towards them but without touching them. Your personal space bubble will knock into your pet’s personal space bubble. For most pets, it is an automatic reaction to take a lateral step to the left to alleviate the special pressure between you. When they take the step, immediately praise them, and provide a treat. Continue the process and after going a few feet switch sides and go to the right. This would complete one repetition. |
As we mentioned earlier, there are many changes our pets will go through as seniors and some of these changes have a big effect on their nutritional requirements. This could be due to lowered activity levels, unnecessary weight loss or gain, lowered immunity, dental disease and much more. The goal of proper senior nutrition is to help minimize the effects of aging. Providing the right nutrition for our seniors is considered essential to healthy aging and enhancing their quality of life.
Our older pets are typically less active and do not require the same amount of calories as their younger selves, but they still need to maintain muscle mass. They are more prone to obesity which adds an additional burden on their aging joints and can lead to many other health issues like diabetes. We want to help them maintain their optimal weight to give them the best quality of life. For the majority of our seniors, we want to be feeding a diet that is high in protein with less carbohydrates. When it comes to those with kidney disease, a high protein diet may not be best for them as it could put more burden on their kidneys. It is always best to consult with your veterinarian before changing a diet of a pet with a medical condition. Of course, there are some senior pets that are struggling to keep weight on. This is normally due to loss of smell or taste, or dental issues but could be due to an underlying condition and is best to monitor and see a vet to be safe. In these cases, we want to entice them to their food and maintain their interest. Increasing the fat in the diet will help increase palatability as well as help them gain weight. Adding tripe to the diet could help with this too.
With the decreased immune function, our seniors may also experience decreased digestion and absorption of nutrients. It is a good idea to avoid foods with too many fillers and focus on high-quality ingredients. It can also help their digestive systems if we spread out their meals to be smaller and more frequent. Many of our seniors, and especially cats, have difficulty staying hydrated, making kidney/urinary issues and constipation more likely. It is always a good idea to have multiple sources of fresh water available to them. As they get older, they may have trouble reaching higher surfaces, so try to keep the water bowls low. The use of water fountains can help entice them and remind them to drink more often as well as the use of Cat Water for our feline friends to keep urinary issues at bay. You can also keep them hydrated by increasing the moisture content in their diet by feeding more wet food which will also be great for the kidneys and easier on sensitive teeth and gums.
There are a few nutritional supplements for our senior friends that can have a significant impact on their health. These supplements are meant to combat and prevent the health issues they need the most support with during this life stage. It is always a good idea to keep in mind that not all human foods are safe for pets, and to do a little research or ask your pet care team if you are unsure. Moderation is key and a slow introduction is typically the best way to go.
| Focus | Reason | Supplement | Examples |
| Digestion | Seniors experience a decreased ability to properly digest and absorb nutrients. We want to help breakdown the nutrients, so they are more easily digested. | Probiotics Prebiotics Postbiotics Digestive Enzymes | Sprouted Seeds Beet Pulp Chicory Root Goat’s Milk Green Tripe |
| Immunity | Senior pets have decreased immune function. We need to help support the immune system by targeting free-radicals that damage their tissues, reduce inflammation, and promote cell membrane health. | Antioxidants (Vitamin A, C & E) Omega -3s (EPA & DHA) | Leafy Greens Carrots Berries Fish Oil/Fish Shellfish Flaxseed |
| Cognitive Function | We can improve memory, communication and overall cognitive function when combined with behavioural enrichment. | Antioxidants (Vitamin A, C & E) Omega -3s (EPA & DHA) | Leafy Greens Carrots Berries Fish Oil/Fish Shellfish Flaxseed |
| Joint Health | We want to help them improve or maintain normal mobility to enjoy their life as long as possible. A great idea as early prevention as well as throughout the progression of joint issues. Safe for long term use, possible alternative to pain medication. | Glucosamine Collagen Chondroitin Omega -3s (EPA & DHA) | Bone Broth Tendons Fish Skin Leafy Greens Fish Oil/Fish Flaxseed |
Typically, the more sedentary they become, the more rapid of a decline they may experience. For our pets, just getting around the house from bed to water bowl can be a daunting task, let alone make it all the way to the door for a washroom break. The struggle can erode their confidence and stop them from trying, especially if they have fallen and hurt themselves. The following are a few improvements we can make around their environment to help them navigate through as comfortable as possible and give them opportunity to truly relax and refuel.
Adding more carpets, mats, and anti-slip surfaces around the house can make a big difference. These should be placed in their usual routes, at their food and water bowls, on slippery floors, base of staircase and even on the stairs themselves. Hardwood and tile floors can be especially tricky for them. For our feline friends, the jumps between perches may be becoming too challenging. We want to provide more frequent perches so they can work their way up and try to keep necessities at ground level for easy access. The litter box may also become an issue as they age so we want to keep the entrance very low and more frequently placed throughout the home as they tend to get confused and may not be able to find it. Including pet stairs and ramps throughout their environment can help ease stress as well as minimize the risk of injury and ramps can double as cat scratchers. It helps them get in and out of the house and vehicles and is perfect for inside when trying to get on and off furniture safely.
As they stiffen with age, it may be hard for our furry friends to reach every area of their body for proper grooming. This may be escalated further if they are struggling with extra weight as well. This is the time to prevent matting with regular brushing and trimming if needed. This is also an opportunity for nails to get longer as they are not worn down as much from regular physical activity. This can lead to them becoming too long and causing discomfort which then limits their mobility. The more frequent grooming sessions provides the perfect chance to bond, examine your pet’s whole body, and pamper them with lots of love. Thoroughly look and feel for matts, lumps and bumps, ear infections and any sores. Regular grooming helps us catch issues early and intervene before it gets too serious.
Unlike their younger selves, our older friends may struggle to get comfortable curled up on the floor. The hard floor does not give and is not typically forgiving on their sore bodies and the couch or human bed can be too difficult of a jump. Having a thick high-quality bed in a few of their favourite places can help them get the restorative sleep they need, stick to their preferred routine and be close to the people they love. If your beloved has joint issues like arthritis, it is a great idea to consider an orthopedic bed or one with memory foam for joint support. A heating pad or heating bed can also soothe stiffness and aches to give them some much deserved relief.
We have covered a lot of tips for inside the house, but we don’t want to lock them inside all the time. When it comes to the outside surroundings, we want to ensure they are not going to get themselves hurt. We want to restrict access to areas that have now become potentially dangerous due to mental or physical decline. This could include blocking stairways with gates and using ramps to get them in and out of the house. You will also want to check for areas like firepits, pools and window wells. While we are out on our slow strolls, we may notice they could use some extra grip to prevent them from straining too much. We can provide some additional traction through paw grips, and a variety of booties.
As a guardian of senior pets, we often focus all our attention on them, but we need to take care of ourselves too. It can be very stressful and draining, both emotionally and physically and that is a completely normal feeling, we are not alone. Many find that making a schedule or tracker for feeding, bathroom breaks, and medication make life a little easier. It removes the stress of missed meals or double dosing and helps prevent accidents inside. We may also experience feelings of guilt at times. That we should be doing more or that we are doing too much. We are doing our best and making them feel loved and that is what matters most. Remember to take time for yourself to have fun and destress as that is a lot of weight to carry. If we do not take care of ourselves, it is much harder to provide the extra support they may need from us.
These senior years are special, and our furry friends can teach us a lot while they transition through this stage. They encourage us to slow down and have patience, try things we normally are too busy for like taking a random nap with them in the sun. They also help us perfect celebrating the small things. Our seniors help us to enjoy the more leisurely walks and truly stop to smell the flowers. Most of all, they remind us that there is nothing like unconditional love and our bond with our beloved pets.
Written By
Taylor Luther
Marketing Lead, Customer Engagement
Taylor completed a Bachelor’s Degree in Animal Biology at the University of Guelph and has built up experience within the pet nutrition industry and the animal medical field. She has a passion to share all insights on pet nutrition and health for all of our furry (feathery, scaly or otherwise) friends.
In most cases, our furry family members are typically visiting the vet every 6-12 months. Of course, unless they get sick and need to visit more frequently. During the vet visit our pets will have a physical exam and the vet will determine their body condition score (BCS), but a lot can change in 6 months, and especially in 12 months. This is why it is important for us pet parents to know how to determine their body condition score at home.
Pet obesity is the number one nutritional disorder in pets, and it can be very easily managed and monitored. It is not the only concerning condition that BCS can help identify and monitor, but it is estimated that 59% of dogs and 63% of cats are overweight and may be struggling with the health implications that come with it. It is a big issue that we need to tackle. We all want our furry family members to be healthy, happy, and with us as long as possible. Unfortunately, a high body condition score puts them at higher risk of heart disease, diabetes, joint ailments, arthritis, high blood pressure, and surgical/anesthetic complications. BCS can help with better communication with our veterinarians and a better understanding of the risks in order to come up with a treatment plan together.
Typically, owners are focused more on the number on the scale, but measuring body condition can provide more detail on their health. Weight may stay the same while fat percentage increases and lean body mass decreases with age. We can monitor their body condition and health between visits and have the ability to warn our vet team so they can provide any treatment that may be needed. This early intervention may allow for better treatment options and may prevent a disease from occurring or at least worsening.
We know that people come in all different shapes and sizes and the pet world has an even bigger variety of both, especially with canines. We needed a method that not only can be used accurately for cats and Chihuahuas but also Bulldogs and Great Danes. Despite this variety, we needed a consistent system used by all veterinarians. BCS is the standardized method of predicting a patient’s body fat percentage and assess if they are carrying a healthy amount. To develop and validate the method they used a machine called DEXA, Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry. It uses low doses of radiation to assess the body condition, the proportion that is fat, lean tissue (organs, muscles, etc.) and bone. You may be thinking, “well why don’t we use DEXA machines to determine their condition?”. The machines are extremely expensive and are not available to most veterinary practices, which is why they came up with body condition scoring. BCS is not just opinion, it is a scientifically validated system, and is species specific. It relies on several visual cues as well as palpation of various regions of the body allowing the veterinarian to monitor their health, approximate their ideal body weight and make any recommendations they feel is needed in each individual case.
Veterinarians may use one of two scoring systems, 1-5 or 1-9. The standard BCS is based on the 9-point system as it helps to identify the more subtle changes in condition. Now the scores are not just numbers, they represent a category of body condition and an approximate body fat percentage of our furry friends.
Assigning a body condition score involves both a visual assessment and physical touch component through palpation. You will want to visually examine your pet while they are standing facing forward. Having a helping hand to keep their attention and stance is a great idea if possible.
First, we will want to view them from above and we want to see that the waistline curves in between the ribcage and the hips in dogs. We may also see the last rib or two in our canines and that is okay. From above our cats, we want to see a slight inward curve at the waist, but not as defined as dogs. The cats are likely overweight if they have no inward curve or have an outward curve visible from above.
Next up, we will want to examine our furry friends shape from the side. In dogs, we want to see a defined abdominal tuck though the degree of tuck will be varied between breeds. A slight abdominal tuck will may still be visible in overweight or obese patients, but it is more likely to see an outward curve with them. Keep in mind, an abdominal tuck in cats may be a sign they are too thin.
Speaking of our purrfect friends, we want to do a visual and tactile assessment of the abdominal fat pad. There should be a minimal layer of fat, any more could be a sign they are overweight. Many cats who were previously overweight will have a pouch of loose skin.
The last visual aspect of body condition scoring are the bones beneath the skin. We will start with the ribcage. In dogs, being able to see the last 1-2 ribs is healthy and we may be able to see more if they are moving around, sniffing or have a short hair coat. If we are able to see the ribs of our beloved kitties, they are too thin. Now moving along to hip bones or pelvis, if they are visible our furry friend is most likely too thin at a score of 3/9 (2/5) or less. This is also the case if the spine is visible. If the pet has lost weight and possibly muscle mass, other bones may be evident without touch as well.
A very important component to body condition scoring is touch, called palpation, especially of the ribcage. Fat will typically accumulate over the top 3rd of the ribcage so this is where we will assess. We want to feel for the fat covering by placing our thumbs on their spine and spreading our fingers across their ribcage and working our way from head to tail. If our pet’s ribcage is easily palpable without applying pressure, they are most likely at a score between 3/9 and 5/9 (2/5 to 3/5). With an emaciated pet with a score of 1/5 or 1/9, they will have a ribcage that is not only easy to feel without pressure but also visible. Obese pets with a score of 5/5 or 9/9 would have a thick layer of fat covering the ribcage making it very difficult and, in some cases, impossible to feel the ribcage. Feeling the ribcage is less uncomfortable for our furry friends then feeling their hips and pelvis, and many may think we are just showing them some love with extra pets. For our arthritic friends, we will want to stick to just the ribcage as they may experience pain with any pressure on their back or hips.
Now, what does a healthy fat layer feel like? There is a great trick using just our hands to demonstrate the feeling. Let’s try it out! Our left hand will represent our furry friend’s ribcage, while our right hand is our hand palpating. First, we will hold our left-hand limp and with the right, feel the bones on the back of our left hand. This is what an ideal fat layer feels like. Now, make a fist with our left hand and feel the knuckles with our right hand. This is what very little fat covering feels like, our pet would be too thin. Lastly, let’s flip our hand over, palm facing up, holding it limp. If we feel our left palm with our right hand, we have to push harder to feel the bones. This represents the ribcage of an overweight pet.
Now that we know the two scoring systems and how to assess their condition both visually and through palpation, we can give our beloved pets a score. If our cats are at 5/9 or 3/5 and our dogs at 4-5/9 and 3/5 they are at a healthy body condition. Congratulations! From here we know we don’t need to make any changes to their exercise routine or their diet and feeding amount. If our assessment is indicating that our pets are above or below a healthy body condition score, there are a few things we can do but first it is best to discuss with your veterinarian. We will want to ensure there is no underlying condition causing the change in weight and condition before we start switching food amounts or changing their daily activity. Having this knowledge does not replace the need for physical exams, consultations, and diagnosis performed by our veterinarians, but helps monitor health and pass along any insights since our last visit. No matter their score, we suggest monitoring both body weight and body condition every 2-4 weeks and adjusting feeding amount as needed, with the guidance of your pet health team.
If after performing our assessment we are concerned about our pet’s condition, here are a few things to keep track of and document to bring to our next appointment or relay to the veterinarian and team.
Body condition scoring and monitoring weight helps to identify health issues early to provide the best care and treatment that is needed to get them back to feeling their best! Many health conditions may be the underlying cause of our pet very quicky gaining or losing weight. Below we will go over both conditions that may cause them to lose weight and those that may make them gain weight. The more we know the better chance we will have to catch these conditions early before they have a big effect on our pets’ lives.
There are many reasons a pet may gain weight, but it is typically more of a gradual progression over time such as when we are simply feeding too many calories or not getting enough exercise. We are going to go over a few conditions that can cause of furry family members to lose a lot of weight and fast.
All of these conditions and diseases can be better diagnosed, treated, and managed with early intervention thanks to pet parents monitoring body condition score at home. If you have any questions about checking your furry friend’s body condition score, feel free to reach out to your local Global Pet Foods to speak with their healthy pet care specialists or your veterinarian’s office.
Written By
Taylor Luther
Marketing Lead, Customer Engagement
Taylor completed a Bachelor’s Degree in Animal Biology at the University of Guelph and has built up experience within the pet nutrition industry and the animal medical field. She has a passion to share all insights on pet nutrition and health for all of our furry (feathery, scaly or otherwise) friends.
Some of us cat parents may have heard the phrase feline upper respiratory infection at the vet clinic or from friends and family and it sounds like a mouthful and a little scary. We want to take away some of the fear and mystery and explain what it is and what we can do to help our purrfect friends. First off, the upper respiratory tract includes the nose/nostrils and nasal cavity, mouth, throat, voice box and the mucosal membrane that lines the whole system. Feline upper respiratory infection (URI) is the common term for a respiratory infection caused by one or more viral or bacterial agents within the upper respiratory tract. It may also be referred to as feline infectious respiratory disease or feline upper respiratory disease complex. Typically, the most consistent symptoms include sneezing, coughing, nasal congestion, conjunctivitis (inflammation of the membrane lining the eyelids), and discharge from the nose and/or eyes. This discharge may be clear or cloudy in colour. There are also a few general symptoms that you may also see with other illnesses. They may experience lack of appetite, lethargy, fever, enlarged lymph nodes, squinting and in severe cases, difficulty breathing.
Cats will experience inflammation and drainage in the mucous membranes of their nose and throat. This drainage is the body’s defenses trying to flush the infectious material from the body to eliminate the infection. The excessive sneezing, coughing and secretions also help to spread the infectious material from one cat to another. Most URIs are not considered a medical emergency, however, severe URIs can lead to depression and lack of appetite. This can be fatal for young kittens or senior cats who grow weak quickly without proper nutrition and adequate hydration. It is unfortunately common in URIs for the patients to contract an additional infection as their immune system is dampened, and the secondary infection may be more severe and require hospitalisation.
Feline upper respiratory infections can be caused by different viruses and/or bacteria. The most common viruses that cause URIs in cats are feline calicivirus (FCV) and feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR), also known as feline herpesvirus type 1. The most common bacteria that cause URIs are Bordetella bronchiseptica (B. bronchiseptica) and Chlamydophila felis (C. felis). There are less common agents such as mycoplasma and feline reovirus. With this said, FCV and FVR are the most concerning because they are responsible for approximately 90% of feline URIs. Now, how do our cats become infected? The viruses and bacteria that are responsible for URIs in cats are highly contagious. An infected cat will shed the contagious materials in the saliva or secretions from their nose or eyes. Other cats are susceptible from direct contact as cats love to groom each other, and this makes it more of a concern with shelters and multi-cat households. Our cats can also be exposed through aerosol transmission where the infectious particles are released into the air through sneezing and coughing. It can also be transferred through fomites, which are objects that have been contaminated by one cat and then that object is exposed to uninfected cats. These objects can include kennels, food & water dishes, bedding, toys, and litter boxes. Environmental exposure is also a higher concern for those will multiple cats. It is thought to be more likely to contract URIs through direct contact and not as common through the environment. This is due to the fact many viruses and bacteria only survive a limited time in the environment and are also destroyed with disinfectants. FVR can survive less than 18 hours outside the host’s body while FCV can survive for up to 10 days and can survive laundry detergents that do not contain bleach. It is a good decision to take some extra precaution and disinfect all common items regardless.
When talking about exposure to infected cats, whether direct or through the environment, we also need to think about how long they are contagious for and when is it safe to bring them around other cats. Once exposed our furry friends will go through an incubation period before they develop any clinical signs for us to pick up on. The incubation period is typically 2-10 days. In most cases the infection and clinical signs will last for 7-10 days after the incubation period, but signs can persist for up to 21 days in some cases. It is this entire period where the infected cat could be exposing other members of the house, boarding facility, or shelter.
The carrier state is a concern since the carrier cat no longer shows any clinical signs but is still contagious. With FVR, all cats become chronic carriers, meaning they will have the virus for life. For the most part, the virus would be dormant, and they would not suffer from any symptoms but periods of stress from illness, surgery, change in environment can reactivate it. With FCV, about 50% of infected cats will become carriers of the virus. In many cases the carrier state only lasts a few months with FCV, but in a small percentage of cases they will be a carrier for life. With FCV the virus is continually shed and does not go dormant. In these cases, the cats are still shedding the viral particles that are infectious to other cats. In addition, female carriers of either virus can pass it to their kittens without showing any symptoms themselves.
There are certain aspects that can make a cat more susceptible to feline upper respiratory infections than others. This includes kittens and senior cats who have less robust and effective immune systems. Cats may also have an underlying condition taxing their immune system, making them more susceptible as well. Those with a diagnosis of feline leukemia or feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) are significantly more prone to URIs as their immune system is already strained so much. Some breeds of cats are more prone to URIs due to facial structure. Breeds with shortened noses or “smushed” faces have shorter bones in the skull causing the pushed in appearance, these breeds are called brachycephalies. Due to this facial structure, Persians, Himalayans, and Burmese have a limited ability to clear mucus containing viral or bacterial materials of a URI. This means cat parents of these breeds may want to take further preventative measures, and if contracted the URI may take longer to clear their system. Shelter cats and multi-cat households are more at risk as well since cats are infectious prior to showing any symptoms. It is very difficult to isolate the sick individual before any others contract the infection. We all love the freedom of being outside and unfortunately for cats this does put them at more risk. They are more likely to come in contact with an infected cat than and indoor only cat would. Of course, these points are only to bring awareness and does not mean your cat is guaranteed to contract a URI if they match some of these criteria.
It may be surprising that with URI cases diagnosis is done through a physical exam and typically no diagnostic testing is required. Diagnosis is mostly based on the clinical signs such as the runny nose and eyes, sneezing and conjunctivitis. Identifying the causing agent, which bacteria, or virus, is not always necessary unless they are not responding to treatment and may also be recommended in breeding cats. To identify a viral agent, they can collect samples of cells from the discharge at the eyes, nose and back of the throat to be sent off for testing. Depending on the symptoms exhibited, veterinarians may be able to identify to a certain extent whether it is FCV or FVR. FVR will typically cause red and swollen mucous membranes of the eyes and nose as well as an inflamed larynx and trachea. While FCV may create ulcers of the oral mucosa and lesions on the tongue or hard palate. When it comes to Chlamydophila felis, organisms can be identified through conjunctivitis scrapings.
If symptoms are long lasting or reoccurring, further diagnostic testing may be recommended. The additional testing could include chest and/or skull x-rays, blood tests, bacterial culture & sensitivity testing, and PCR testing of the abnormal discharge. X-rays also help to confirm that there is not lower respiratory involved like pneumonia. The veterinarian may want to rule out any underlying concurrent infections such as feline leukemia and FIV through quick and simple snap tests using a small blood sample. The more thorough testing for more severe cases helps them create a more targeted treatment plan for the specific viral or bacterial cause.
Most cats who have a URI can be treated symptomatically at home. This means that the veterinarian may prescribe medications to treat the specific symptoms each cat is experiencing such as eye drops, or nose drops for cloudy discharge, but many cats can recover with intervention from home. If the cat is not eating well the veterinarian may also prescribe an appetite stimulant. Whether it is a viral or bacterial URI, the veterinarian may prescribe broad spectrum antibiotics. A viral infection does not respond to antibiotics, but this does help to prevent any secondary infection occurring while the immune system is burdened, further complicating the condition. If further testing was performed and the URI was confirmed to be caused by either Bordetella or Chlamydophila, it would be treated with specific antibiotics to target the culprit more effectively. It is very important to follow all antibiotic labels exactly as instructed. Do not discontinue the medication before completing the course of treatment and try your best to not miss a dose. If you are ever unsure, please call your veterinarian with any questions or concerns. In severe cases where the cat has become dehydrated, depressed, or is having serious difficulty breathing, hospitalization may be recommended for fluid replacement therapy and/or oxygen therapy.
Apart from medications and hospitalization there are a few things veterinarians recommend that you can do yourself to help with their recovery. For cats that are experiencing a lot of congestion, they may benefit from increased humidification or steam therapy. You can do this by bringing them into the bathroom with the hot shower running for about 10-15 minutes and this can be done several times a day. It is important to make sure they are staying hydrated when doing steam therapy. Additionally, pet parents can use a moist cloth or wipe to avoid further irritation to the nose or eyes while gently wiping away discharge. Since it is common to have a decreased appetite, having a highly palatable wet food will help get them eating and hydrated. Lastly, a probiotic supplement and a Lysine supplement may be recommended to help support the immune system while fighting the infection. The probiotics can also help with any gastrointestinal upset experienced as a side effect for medications like antibiotics.
Since feline upper respiratory infections can be caused by a variety of viral and bacterial agents, it can be difficult to prevent against, but there are a few things pet parents can do to minimize the risk. One prevention method we will look into is vaccinations. Part of the core vaccines recommended to all kittens and cats is FVRCP which helps to prevent FVR, FCV, and feline panleukopenia. There is also a vaccine against feline chlamydiosis (an eye infection caused by C. felis) that is not part of the core vaccines and is usually only recommended if the veterinarian feels they are at a higher risk of exposure to C. felis. Also, there is a rare but serious form of FCV known as hemorrhagic calicivirus but there is an increased risk of reaction with the vaccine and veterinarians will want to ensure you understand the risk and benefits before administering. Since a feline leukemia diagnosis makes cats more susceptible to URIs, it is also a good idea to ask your veterinarian about this core vaccine. The forementioned vaccines would require a booster on a scheduled basis of 1-3 years dependant on the vaccine and vaccine history of the patient. While vaccines are great tools to minimize the risk, none of the vaccines will completely prevent an infection but they will significantly reduce the severity of the infection and shorten the length of illness.
Another way to prevent feline URIs is to minimize exposure. Preventing direct contact between your cat and others greatly minimizes the chance they will pick up any bacteria or virus leading to the infection. Indoor cats are at a great advantage due to their minimal exposure. Unfortunately, cats in humane societies, shelters, boarding facilities, and cat shows have a harder time preventing both direct contact and environmental transmission. It may be surprising to some but we ourselves can be exposing our cats to viral and bacterial agents through hands, toys, and clothing. If you yourself have been exposed to other cats it is a great idea to change our clothes and wash our hands, and of course clean or keep any dishes and toys separate. Minimizing exposure for the first couple weeks of bringing a new cat home is also a great recommendation to consider. This not only helps to minimize stress for current furry family members, but it also gives a chance to monitor for any symptoms and help to prevent an infection spreading to the rest of the home. Most would recommend at least 2 weeks of separation with proper hand hygiene and separate toys and dishes. Some pet parents are extra careful and would wait till the new member is fully vaccinated and has a clean bill of health before direct contact with their new friends.
Boosting the immune system and minimizing stress is another method to help prevent feline URIs. This is especially important for cats that are carriers of viral agents as stress is an added burden to the immune system putting them at a higher risk for viral shedding. You can minimize stress by providing perches to get away or watch out a window. Having a variety of toys for them to play with and lots of space to wonder and relax also helps to prevent stress and therefore, prevents shedding of the virus. A big stressor for cats is a crowded, dirty litter box so it is a great idea to ensure you have enough litter boxes in low traffic areas that are cleaned often. Another way to minimize stress is through pheromone treatment that you can plug into the wall or spray areas like their bed, litter box and perches. There are a few things we can add to their diet to boost their immune system to minimize the risk. As we had talked about before with at home treatments, you can add a probiotic and lysine supplement that helps to strengthen the immune system to then fight off infection. The addition of antioxidants and anti-inflammatories can also help keep the immune system running at peak performance to tackle any viral or bacterial agents ahead.
We hope whether a single cat or multi-cat household, and indoor or outdoor, that we have given you some insight on feline URIs and some preventative methods to help keep all our furry friends as healthy as possible.
We all love to share with our pets to show love and form that tight bond, at the same time we need to ensure we are not causing any harm with these special treats. It can be so hard to say no to those pleading puppy-dog and kitty eyes, but it may be the best answer for them to live a healthy and happy life with us. It can be confusing to all the different foods that are good or bad for them, so we have broken down three key factors to keep in mind with any type of food or treat and their common health effects. Sharing may not only lead to health problems so we will look into how they can affect behaviour as well. To wrap everything up we will touch on a few of the top toxic treats and safe alternatives for our furry loved ones.
Many pet parents may feel the table scraps they are feeding are not toxic to pets, so what is the problem? We need to keep in mind that just because it is not poisonous does not mean it is healthy for them. There are a lot of “safe” human foods that can have many adverse effects on our pets through considerable amounts of sugar, fat and/ or salt. Even feeding small amounts of our meals can go above their daily nutritional requirements, causing them to gain weight leading to poor overall health. Those at an optimal weight are less likely to suffer from joint, bone, and mobility issues. Pets that are overweight are at higher risk of developing many health conditions such as heart disease, breathing issues, and decreased liver function.
Sharing our breakfast like bacon or letting them have a bite of your cheeseburger are seemingly innocent gifts that may lead to dangerous health conditions and possibly an emergency vet visit. A small piece of cheese for us does not make up that much of a daily fat requirement but for a 20-pound dog it is a lot for their little body. These small bites can lead to a lot of weight gain and overtime you will notice the negative effects on the body. The added burden on our pets’ bodies can be seen as joint pain, arthritis, heart disease and diabetes. Many human dishes are just too rich and fatty for a beloved pet(s) to properly digest leading to gastrointestinal issues. After a fatty treat you may see vomiting, diarrhea and this habit could lead to severe conditions like pancreatitis.
Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas. It can be life threatening and may be hard to identify as symptoms are similar to many other conditions. Some symptoms they may experience are lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, reduced appetite, and hunched posture. When the pancreas is functioning normally it works with the digestive tract by releasing digestive enzymes that only become active once they are present in the small intestine, where most of digestion occurs. If the pancreas is inflamed, the enzymes can be released and activated early, leading to the digestion of the pancreas and surrounding tissues. This is extremely painful for dogs and cats as this can significantly damage the pancreas and surrounding organs in the abdomen. Without intervention it can cause internal bleeding and even death. Pancreatitis can come about for a variety of reasons, but the leading cause is a high fat diet. This may be part of their daily meals or if they suddenly consumed a large amount of fatty food in table scraps or through the garbage. The condition requires veterinary treatment and long-term management as flare ups may now occur from even the slightest trigger. Management will include a complete diet change, and possibly a change in feeding frequency and amounts as well as some physical activity and extremely limited treat options. Like many health conditions, pancreatitis is much easier and less costly to prevent than to treat and manage. The pancreas is also responsible for the production of insulin, resulting in diabetic patients being at a higher risk of pancreatitis and those with pancreatitis are more likely to get diabetes as well.
Speaking of diabetes, providing a lot of sugar to our pets over an extended period of time can cause numerous health issues. Along with diabetes, your pet may experience gastrointestinal upset, obesity, metabolic changes and in severe cases it can also lead to pancreatitis. Even semi-regular consumption can cause varying weight gain, impacting various organ systems and metabolic processes. Sugar treats are also a top cause of tooth decay and gum disease because the harmful mouth bacteria thrive off sugars. We do not want there to be confusion. Naturally occurring sugars in fruits and vegetables are safe in moderation. They contain water and fibre that helps slow down the body’s absorption of fruit sugars like fructose preventing the dangerous spike in blood sugar levels. They also benefit from the various micronutrients found in fruits and vegetables. It is best to stay away from all forms of added sugar including products using artificial sweeteners like xylitol found in gum, candy, and some peanut butters. Xylitol is toxic to pets and can cause liver failure and seizures.
Just like humans, it is not completely certain why some pets have developed diabetes. Some pets are genetically prone but there is evidence that being overweight increases the risk of your pet developing diabetes. Excess sugar that is not needed for energy is stored as fat as the pet becomes overweight their cells become increasingly resistant to insulin, resulting in the condition. Symptoms to watch for include excessive thirst and urination, unexplained weight loss, change in appetite, sweet smelling breath, lethargy, UTIs, and loss of eyesight. There is no cure for diabetes, but it can be managed. This may include regular insulin shots up to twice a day, regular blood glucose testing, monitoring for changes and symptoms, and changing their diet. It is especially important for these pets to stick to a healthy low sugar diet. They also need lots of water to keep hydrated and flush the sugars sitting in the bladder. Saying no to human scraps, sugary treats, butter, oils, salt, and other seasoning is crucial. It is best to go for single ingredient, dehydrated treats if you want to offer them something special.
Everyone loves a good, seasoned fry and the salty, crunchy bite of a potato chips including our four-legged friends. A rare treat may not hurt but too much salt can lead to health concerns just like too little salt. Salt helps to replenish their electrolytes, which are essential minerals that are vital to many functions in the body. This is why most pet foods are balanced to meet their daily salt requirements. Pets can exceed this limit by sharing treats like our fast food, seasoned meat, deli meat, and salty snacks leading to many health problems down the road. There are three main health concerns with excessive salt intake. Our first concern is dehydration since the high salt content in the blood stream causes water to rapidly drain from the cells to dilute the salt content in the blood. This severe dehydration will cause confusion, lethargy, and neurological effects due to brain swelling. Our pets can experience muscle cramps and joint pain causing them to lose balance and mobility. The flow of water leads us into our next health concern, high blood pressure. This can be especially hazardous if the pet also suffers from anemia. The influx of water to offset the salt puts a lot of pressure on the walls of the circulatory system. High blood pressure can have damaging effects on many internal organs such as the kidneys, heart, and brain. If the salt levels in the blood are extremely excessive, your pet may experience salt poisoning. This is caused by an extreme sodium imbalance; it is a severe condition and if left untreated can result in death. Treatment is not as straight forward as removing the salty culprit and providing more water. Rehydrating too quickly can actually exacerbate their symptoms and can even result in brain swelling and heart attacks. The signs to watch out for include, diarrhea, vomiting, swollen abdomen, excessive thirst, excessive urination, muscle tremors, incoordination, and seizures. If you suspect your pet may have salt poisoning it is best to seek veterinary assistance.
Another downside of sharing with our furry family members is the potential effects on their behaviour when food is around. This can start to form bad habits like begging, and we reinforce them by giving them a piece. They may start to think begging and mooching is acceptable and beg for food all the time and from everyone they see with food. Some pet parents are unknowingly reinforcing this unwanted behaviour by providing a piece of food just to get the pet to leave them alone, if only for a brief moment. A little drool in your lap as you eat your food may not be a big issue for you, but you may reconsider if it progresses. With some pets this might encourage them to steal food from young kids or skip the middleman and steal right from the plate. This not only introduces a danger to any children but for the dog as well, as somethings we are eating or might drop are toxic or a hazard to them. It can lead to food aggression with their own and human food making it difficult to remove if it is a danger to them and it can be incredibly challenging to correct this behavior. This can also result in very picky eaters. They may not want their food if they think they can get a slice of your pizza when they hold out long enough. Many of these issues are very frustrating and time consuming to correct and may take months of training and continued commitment to limit the unwanted and potentially dangerous behaviours.
Many human foods are unfortunately, toxic, or unsafe for our pets to consume and it can be hard to be aware of them all. We encourage pet parents to stop and consider if the treat your about to give is a safe and healthy option before we let them have it. The following table is here to help navigate a few human treats to avoid and the reasoning behind it.
| Human Food/Treat | Health Risks |
| Almonds | Non-toxic but is not safe. Almonds can block the esophagus and tear tissues along the digestive tract with the sharp pieces. If salted, it is a higher concern due to side effects of excessive salt. |
| Bread | Non-toxic but is unhealthy. Bread is remarkably high in sugar, preservatives and does not provide much nutritional value. |
| Chocolate & Caffeine | Toxic. Chocolate contains caffeine and theobromine which can not be properly metabolized by our pets. Affects their circulation, heart, and smooth muscle control, and can lead to diarrhea, vomiting, irregular heart function and seizures. |
| Cinnamon | Non-toxic (oil is toxic) but not safe. It can lower their blood sugar too much and lead to diarrhea, vomiting, irregular heart rate and liver disease. If inhaled it can cause coughing, choking and difficulty breathing. |
| Cooked Bones | Non-toxic but extremely dangerous. Cooked bones are likely to splinter and cause punctures or tears in the digestive tract. It can also cause a blockage within the digestive tract. |
| Deli Meat | Non – toxic but not safe. All lunch meats are extremely high in salt and fat and can lead to obesity along with heart disease, diabetes, and pancreatitis. |
| Fast Food/Processed Foods | May be toxic; is not healthy. Can contain toxic ingredients like onions, toxic herbs, and unsafe spices. They also contain excessive amounts of fat, sugar and salt leading to many health conditions. |
| Grapes/Raisins | Toxic as it contains tartaric acid. This acid causes vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst, kidney damage and even kidney failure. |
| Ice Cream | Non – toxic but is unhealthy. Ice cream is extremely high in sugar leading to many health issues. Some pets are sensitive to dairy and could lead to vomiting and diarrhea. What is great is that they are so many pet-safe ice creams and alternatives to treat them with instead. |
| Macadamia Nuts | Very Toxic. Can induce signs of poison after ingesting only a couple nuts. Watch for signs of fever, vomiting and lethargy. |
| Onions | All varieties are toxic, including chives due to disulfides. If our pets ingest a large amount, whether over time or all at once, they can damage their red blood cells, causing anemia. |
Not all human foods are bad. There are many healthy food options to treat our beloved pets without the harmful effects. With many things, it is all about moderation. Treats should only make up 10% of their daily diet and the rest should be balanced meals to ensure our pets are getting everything the need to thrive. We will go through a few examples below.
| Human Food/Treat | Health Facts |
| Cheese | Safe in moderation. Cheese is high in fat and should be given in small amounts. Some pets may have a sensitivity and experience gastrointestinal upset. |
| Coconut | Coconut and coconut oil is a great option for a treat as it has many health benefits for the skin and coat. It is also good for bad breath. |
| Eggs | Eggs are safe to eat in moderation. They are high in protein, fatty acids, and many vitamins. If feeding raw should only be given a few times a week as raw egg whites can cause a biotin deficiency. *Eggshells are an excellent source of calcium, and the shell membrane is a great joint supplement. |
| Fish | Safe and healthy treat. A fantastic source of omega-3s for skin & coat and to reduce inflammation. Remember to remove all bones that can cause GI tears, except for sardines which have very soft, digestible bones. |
| Fruits | Many fruits and vegetables are safe for pets as long as they are seedless and have pits removed. Many fruits provide fibre, vitamins, and minerals. Berries are fantastic antioxidants. |
| Meat Protein | Safe in moderation. Offer them the meat they crave with many single protein options of breast, liver, and heart. Be careful in excessive treats as this can disrupt their balanced diet and lead to GI upset. |
| Peanuts | Safe in moderation. An excellent source of protein. They are high in fat and can lead to pancreatitis if given too much too often. Stay away from salted or seasoned peanuts as it can lead to salt poisoning. |
| Peanut Butter | Safe in moderation. Very crucial to read the ingredients and stay away from any containing salt and the toxic artificial sweetener, xylitol. Contains heart healthy fats, vitamins, and niacin. |
For more safe treat suggestions please visit your local Global Pet Foods where our healthy pet care specialists are happy to help.
Written By
Taylor Luther
Marketing Lead, Customer Engagement
Taylor completed a Bachelor’s Degree in Animal Biology at the University of Guelph and has built up experience within the pet nutrition industry and the animal medical field. She has a passion to share all insights on pet nutrition and health for all of our furry (feathery, scaly or otherwise) friends.
