Is World's Best Cat Litter, "The Best Cat Litter"?

Is World's Best Cat Litter, "The Best Cat Litter"?

While browsing the monstrosity of litter brands you may of came across a brand called, World's Best Cat Litter. If the name alone did not grab your attention the price tag may have. A twenty eight pound bag can run you around twenty five united states dollars or more. Compared to many of its competitors this is expensive. But the real question is, is it better?

Let's Get Started:

World's Best Cat Litter 28 pound Long Lasting Performance Multi Cat

Advertised as 28 pounds for 2 cats lasts 60 plus days

Not Scented

Day 1 Setup:

Litter Box measurements  17 X 13 inches

No Liner

 Our Test Subjects:

Maahes and Pharaoh

Age 5 and 6

Both Neutered Males

Litter Box Starting Measurement:

3 1/2 inches 

(Half of the 28 pound bag)

 

Let's see what happens each week with the usage of two cats.

End Of Week One Measurements:

2 1/2 inches

End Of Week Two Measurements:

2 inches

End Of Week Three Measurements:

1 1/2 inches

At the end of three weeks the litter has become to low for my two cats and the box is starting to smell.

Its time to dump the remaining litter.

Dumping of the dirty litter box.

Three tiny spots remain of stuck on litter.

The Details:

The litter box was cleaned on average three times daily.

NO fresh litter was added at anytime and no liner was used.

NO air freshers were used in or around the box.

Both cats consume three meals a day of one fourth of a cup for each meal.

Dry food only, Royal Canine Prescription Urinary SO

This food does increase water consumption in cats.

During week one Pharaoh had diarrhea. (not caused by the litter)

Very little tracking outside of the box.

In Conclusion: 

During the three weeks of usage it was extremely easy to scoop. There were no occurrences of urine balls crumbling or becoming stuck to the sides of the litter box. All fecal matter seemed to become dried out very quickly by the litter and odor did not linger for long periods of time.

So did it live up to the advertised 28 pounds for 2 cats lasts 60 plus days.

Not quite, on average for a total of one bag was almost 7 weeks just a week shy of 8 weeks (60 Days)

Not bad considering the episode of diarrhea and the fact both cats urinate more than a average cat due to the prescription food.

This litter is 99% dust free. The one cat Pharaoh is a digger and at times would cover half his leg with litter while trying to cover his business. He would emerge with visible dust on his tail and legs.

What do you think cat owners?

Is it worth a try?

I would suggest it's worth a try for your home. When you eliminate the costs of litter box liners and air freshers. You are actually saving money despite the price tag.

So if you are very unhappy with your current litter and feel you have tried it all. Its worth to try one more and see if this litter works for you and your cats.

GET THE FULL SCOOP AT...

 https://www.worldsbestcatlitter.com/

Note: We were not paid or compensated for this test or review.

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Jackson Galaxy Butterfly Ball Review With Two Cats

Jackson Galaxy Butterfly Ball Review

Retails for around 30USD

Basic Information About The Jackson Butterfly Ball

Jackson Galaxy Butterfly Ball Cat Toy Cats love to chase, and this butterfly ball will keep them on the move. The ball creates satisfying hunt play with its sensor-activated action that sets the butterfly fluttering within the ball when pushed by a stalking cat. It's exercise for your feline friend and great entertainment for you. Good to Know Requires 3 AA batteries (not included)

Review...

Our resident cats Maahes The Lynx Point (Age 5) and Pharaoh The Tuxedo (Age 6) as seen in the above video, took to this toy right away. First impressions are very important. This video takes place the moment it was put on the floor. As you can see they were very interested one maybe more so than the other.

BUT, what about the after effects once the newness has faded away. A week later this toy is still a big hit. The butterfly does random move with out them having to touch it which intrigues them even more. When the butterfly flutters its wings it hits the plastic in the bubble making a small sound which drives my cats crazy. It makes them want to get to the butterfly even more. Maahes the Lynx Point loves to sit and watch the ball until he falls asleep where as Pharaoh the Tuxedo loves to attack the ball and bite at the butterfly.
Every time the ball is touched the butterfly goes crazy inside. The movement is extremely lifelike. I can not say how much battery life it does pull because I do randomly turn the ball off at times.

But if you have ever purchased one of those insect cat toys that wiggles across the floor and your cat loved it. This is even better because you do not have to babysit or worry about them choking on the small parts.
It is also great for when you come home after a long day and your cats are attacking you at the door and screaming. Pull this beauty out and it will buy you some time until you can sit down and have some quality time with your fur babies.

Video Features Maahes and Pharaoh of International House Of Cats. 

Video is property of International House Of Cats and may not be used or distributed with out written permission.

This item was personally purchased by IHOC. IHOC has not been compensated for this review and is not affiliated with Petmate Products.

Is Your Cat Drinking Enough Water?

How often do you pay attention to your cats water bowl? Is it everyday or whenever you see the water is low? 

Do you actually know if your cat is drinking enough water?

Unfortunately these questions never tend to come to mind until a trip to the vet. A cats water bowl is the number one overlooked part of your cats life.

Let's start off with how much water your cat should be drinking. Cats should be drinking at least half a cup of water a day so four ounces. This can vary depending on if you feed dry only or wet only or a mix of both. Cats who eat dry only should be consuming at least half a cup a day (4oz). Cats who are being served wet or wet and dry may drink less because of the water intake coming from the wet food. It is extremely important that your cat drinks plenty of water to avoid any health issues such as crystals and urinary tract infections.

So what if your cat just doesn't like to drink water? 

There are a few things you can try. 

If you are serving tap or well water you may want to try bottled water. But please be mindful of the bottled water source. You do not want to serve your cat bottled tap water with just added minerals for flavor. This bottled water is no different from your tap. 

If bottled water is not working you can also purchase water additives at your local pet store for some added flavor. Or you may even try a bit of tuna juice to the water.

Is water bowl size important? 

Yes it is for many different reasons. The larger the bowl the better. Cats are more than likely to drink more from a larger bowl because it can be approached at different angles in a larger circumference. Sounds crazy doesn't it. Most cats think since the bowl is so big the water just must taste different on the other side. Its all about massive visual appeal for your cat.

How often are you cleaning the water bowl? 

If you have white calcium rings in your bowl, you are not cleaning it enough. Water bowls should be cleaned daily even if it doesn't look dirty. Cats will also pick up on the routine of you cleaning the water bowl and will look at it the same way as feeding time. I suggest cleaning it outside of feeding times for this reason. Most cats will flock to the water bowl after they see you filling it with fresh water.

Is there a way to tell if my cat is dehydrated?

If you pinch the skin over a cat's shoulders and pull up, the skin should snap right back into place when released. This is sign of a well hydrated cat

As a cat becomes more dehydrated the skin will go down slower, if the skin should stay up like a tent you need to rush your cat to a vet right away this is a severe case of dehydration. 

What if your cat drinks A LOT of water?

This can be a sign of diabetes or kidney failure. Don't panic yet. This is also based upon what food you are feeding. If you are feeding your cat dry they will no doubt drink more than the recommended half a cup (4oz) a day. This is due to the amount of water in dry food. They must compensate. This doesn't mean dry food is unhealthy. Never forget dry food is what helps keep your cats teeth and gums clean.

I think my cat drinks weird?

You should watch how your cat drinks. Some cats drink from the middle and some drink along the edge. The edge drinkers are the cats that may stay at the water bowl longer because they are not taking in as much by drinking this way. Edge drinkers are also coming in contact more directly with the bowl. This is another reason no matter what your cats habits are you should wash it everyday. 

Checking your cats water should be something you glance at multiple times a day. Always keeping in mind what time you filled the bowl. Keeping your cats water bowl further away from where they eat can also help keep the bowl cleaner. Its less likely to become infected with food crumbs. Most cats will not drink from a bowl with even just the smallest crumb. 

So the next time you pass that bowl or even raise your own cup, ask yourself when was the last time I checked my cats water?

😺

https://www.internationalhouseofcats.com

Video Features Pharaoh a trap neuter release program cat.

Pharaoh is now 100% a indoor cat after being successful in his rehabilitation to transition from outdoor life to indoor life after 6 years on the streets of Las Vegas Nevada USA.

Video is property of International House Of Cats and may not be used or distributed with out written permission.

Catit Senses 2.0 Food Tree Review

Catit Senses 2.0 Food Tree Review

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Cats love to eat. Cats can already have food but still want more when they know its close to feeding time. Cats can also inhale or stress eat which can cause diarrhea or vomiting. 

With so many products on the market you never know which one to try first. I went looking for a slow feeder for a cat. Not to my surprise most were for dogs but also had cat labeled as well. Any cat owner knows this is not always the case of a one size fits all for dogs and cats. Cats do not like having there whiskers squished when they eat. Most slow feeders cause a dog or cat to squish there face into sections of the feeder, or they tend to paw the food out which can cause a mess.

I decided on the Catit 2.0 Tree Feeder for one big reason. The design. As soon as I saw it, I was intrigued. It was nothing like I had seen before and the price was very reasonable. So what have I gotten out of my tree feeder?

What I have learned about the Catit 2.0 Tree Feeder

It does not easily tip over, actually I have never had it tip over even with a 13 pound cat standing against it and ramming his face on it.

Not all of the food pieces fall into the tray, depending on how hard your cat swats at the food inside of the feeder some of the pieces may go flying and not land in the tray below.

The three settings for the middle tier easily move, the middle tier has three hole sizes that you can adjust. One being the largest and three being the smallest. This makes it harder for the food to move through the tree. But the setting is easily moved by paws trying to work the food down. So most of the time the middle tier stays on a level one sized hole. 

The top tree hole calls out to greedy cats, the top of the food tree has a narrow long hole you pour the food into. Some cats may find themselves standing up against the tree and shoving there paw and arm through there and moving it back and forth real fast so the food goes flying around the tree and sometimes it works in making a ton of food drop into the tray below. 

The entire tree comes apart and is super easy to clean and put back together. 

The tree has three levels the food must work down. On each level depending on the size of the food, pebbles can get stuck along the edges which can cause frustration for your cat. But causes them to work a little harder for there food.

Super loud. Unfortunately with this awesome design it is not quiet. The sound of the food being knocked down through the levels and landing in the bottom tray is not quiet. 

Slows cats eating down dramatically. You read it here. It does slow your cat down. At first your cat may try to engulf what ever lands in the tray. But over time it trains your cat to eat slower when they figure out only a few pieces are going to fall at a time.

Should more than one cat use a feeder? I have decided this is a no. I like to micromanage how much my cats eat and having both cats eat from the same feeder creates a stalking issue. One cat or both will stalk the feeder or both will try to eat all the food in one sitting. I have decided to purchase two different Catit Feeders and train each cat at its own feeder. Does this work? YES! 

The super cool packaging turns into a toy for your cat. Each Catit product box has lines you cut out to create a toy or hiding place. The Catit 2.0 Tree Feeder features a cat cave you can cut out with a cat space design.

The plastic used for the entire design is thick and each piece has a different type of coating for easy cleaning. This feeder will not easily break.

When assembling the tree make sure the tree is secure properly to the base. It will be a very tight fit, make sure to use two hands so you do not break the plastic tabs that you insert into the base and turn.

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So what do you think of the Catit 2.0 Food Tree? Don't forget to check out the video above for a uninterrupted review of the Catit 2.0 Food Tree.

Click Here To Purchase

Catit Senses 2.0 Food Tree

Video Features Maahes and Pharaoh of International House Of Cats. 

Video is property of International House Of Cats and may not be used or distributed with out written permission.

Top 5 Best And Unique Cat Scratchers

Cats love to scratch and claw, that is not a hidden fact. What is a hidden fact is we seem to always purchase what has been deemed as a good cat scratching product. But how long do these products last and did your cat actually use them?

Quality vs Quantity is what keeps pet owners from having to constantly replace products your cat uses often. One of those items being the all mighty cat scratcher. We all have been guilty of purchasing those cheap cardboard scratchers and watching our cats bite and claw in delight. Then we notice a couple days later to a week later they have lost interest and its back to the corner of the mattress. 

We have compiled our Top 5 Best Unique Cat Scratchers based on durability, functional quality's and of course uniqueness. 

Top 5 Cat Scratchers

#1

The Imperial Tiger Cat Scratch and Shape 

Measuring 33.2 x 9 x 11 inches and 4 pounds this is the mother of all cat scratchers. Heavy duty construction that can last for over a year with heavy scratching. The inner body even slides completely out as a smaller scratching pad. When the inner body is removed the empty cavity is designed with the same scratching cardboard. This product also will not cave in with your cats weight.

#2

The Imperial Orca Scratch and Shape

Measuring 22 x 9 1/2 x 7 1/4 inches and 1.9 pounds this scratcher acts as the perfect lounger. Great for cats who like to claw at a angle. The inner belly cavity is also fitted with the same heavy duty cardboard for scratching. Product also will not cave in like many scratch loungers. Heavy duty cardboard makes it ideal for any cat to lounge with weight never being a issue.

#3

The Imperial Cat Club Chair

Measuring 18.5 x 9 x 22.2 inches and 2.2 pounds. This scratcher mimic's your favorite chair and helps your feline companion leave your fine upholstery alone. With many angles to scratch your cat will not bother with your furniture anymore. The inner cavity is removable and acts as a ottoman. Made of heavy duty cardboard this scratcher will not cave and nor will it wear out in a short amount of time. 

#4

The Rotunda Cat Condo Scratcher and Lounge 

Measuring 32.2 x 18.3 x 35.5 and 25.6 pounds. This scratcher is on the pricier end of the spectrum but it is large and in charge. This large scratcher can hold any size cat and weight. Also made of heavy duty cardboard it will not cave in or wear out for some time. The shape of this design intrigues your cats natural urges to scratch and also to lounge. It also provides a high vantage point that cats love.

#5

The 4CLAWS Round Scratching Bed

Measuring 13.9 x 2.5 x 13.9 inches and 1.6 pounds. This scratcher acts as a cozy bed and scratcher. The inner heavy duty cardboard insert can be flipped and replaced when worn out and the outer cover is easy to pop in the wash. It also features gripping dots to prevent slipping. Raised walls and covered bottom prevent debris from leaking out. Your cat can scratch to its heart content then lay down and have a soft layer to rest its head for a long overdue cat nap.

When choosing the perfect cat scratcher always keep in mind your cats size and weight. Don't forget to try and keep a eye out for certain angles your cat likes to place itself in when it scratches. Keep these things in mind and you are sure to pick out the perfect scratcher for your cat.

We would love seeing your cat enjoying its scratcher. We welcome everyone to share and post anytime on our Facebook page.

https://www.Facebook.com/internationalhouseofcats
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Picture Note:

Maahes is enjoying the Imperial Tiger Scratch and Shape 

Our Number One Pick! Scratching since 2016 on the same tiger!

Cat Proofing Your Home Top 3 Cat Problems

So your furry bundle of joy likes to get into everything. It's time to cat proof your home not only for the safety of your cat but to prevent any unnecessary aggression and hostility you can bring into play.

That's right you can actually make things worse by constantly yelling or chasing after your cat. So its time for a compromise in the household.

Let's start cat proofing your home. Cat proofing your home doesn't mean you or your cat will be inconvenienced. The purpose is to find a level of compromising that works for both of you. So let's get started on a few cat proofing techniques and issues you may be having inside of your home.

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The Cupboard Bandit

The all mighty bang of a cupboard door back and forth as your cat waits to get your attention. Or the ultimate bandit that decides to rearrange your cupboard from the inside.

If your cat is a cupboard bandit it can be extremely dangerous. Most of us keep hazardous materials, sharp objects or even objects a cat can choke on stored away.

To prevent any frustration on both ends the compromise typically is to add safety locks to each cupboard. This way your cat can roll over and paw all they want to but that door is not going to budge. 

There is many different types of cupboard locks based on skill level and budget. None have to be permanent or damage your existing cupboards. Most are even undetectable. 

Are you ready to check out some cupboard locks?

Cupboard Locks

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The Rewire Bandit

The cat who secretly wants to be a electrician. We all have heard it before the sound of wires moving around behind the television. I have found over the years cats are drawn to power cords for a number of reasons. I've seen cats become tempted just because the paper label is still attached to the cord. Some just love the tooth and gum relief of chewing on rubber and plastic. The possibility's can be endless as to why your cat wants to be a electrician. But it is important to understand that if your cat is drawn to power cords it can lead into disaster of electrocution to fire. To prevent you having to worry and to protect your cat make sure cords can not be reached or pulled out. A lot of times it is as simple as pushing furniture closer to the wall. In other cases it may not be and cord protectors are a must. Thankfully there is many different lines of pet cord protectors that are actually chew proof and non toxic. These protectors typically are much cheaper than traditional cord protectors. So you may want to check these out before going with a traditional cord protector to stay budget friendly.

Are you ready to check out some pet cord protectors?

Pet Cord Protectors 

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The Weed Puller

The cat who wants nothing more than to be your personal gardener. We all know some plants can be extremely dangerous for our cats to consume. But did you know that even safe plants can cause diarrhea and vomiting. If you have unsafe plants in your house it is best to remove them or put them at a level that your cat can not reach by any means. I also suggest moving plants with your cat in a different room. This way when you reintroduce them to the room, you will see if they are going to become extremely intrigued and try to find a way of getting to the plant. You may also try planting some cat grass inside of your home. This sometimes prevents cats from wanting to nibble at your plants.

Are you ready to try your green thumb on cat grass?

Cat Grass Seeds and Kits

There are many plants that are safe around cats that you may plant as long as they are not toxic. 

For a complete list of safe and non toxic plants the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) has combined a easy list for owners to use free of charge.

ASPCA TOXIC AND NON TOXIC PLANT LIST

You may also check out our ideas and tips for creating a cat garden.

International House of Cats Cat Garden

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We always encourage bonding time with your cat. Unless other wise stated always allow your cat to watch you when working on projects. It is a great moment that your cat looks at as precious. Cats love to be included so why not include them.

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Picture Note

Pictured above is Maahes helping myself install some cupboard safety catches.

We would love to see you and your cat being handy and safe together. We welcome everyone to share and post anytime on our Facebook page.

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https://www.internationalhouseofcats.com

Summer Treats And Games For Your Cat

Summer and fun in the sun is here. While you may be planing your next vacation or family barbecue this summer don't forget about your feline companion. While your cat may not be able to partake in all the outdoor partying and vacations, it doesn't mean you can't create a summer party just for them or maybe make this a part of your next house party. 

Let's Get The Party Started!

Summer Cat Games

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Bug Zapper

Purchasing plastic bugs from your local store is the key to this summer cat game. You can buy a bag of plastic insects for only a dollar at most retail stores. The objective is to place your cat in a different room while you prepare the main living space for the game. Place insects around on the walls and even the ceiling if possible. You want to keep the insects clear of your cats reach. Using string is also a option for dangling the insects from the ceiling. When you are finished release your cat from the room he was being held in and watch the fun begin. Your cat will no doubt begin to chirp and spin in delight as they begin the hunt. When your cat has had enough be sure to lower a insect and let them attack it so your cat will have the satisfaction of knowing it was able to obtain one.

Shadow Dancing

This game is best in a dark or semi dark room. You will need a flashlight, string and a cat toy. Attach the string to the cat toy and dangle it in front of the flashlight to create a bouncing shadow. You can do multiple toys at once or just one. Cats love to play in the dark so this game will multiply the intriguing factor for your cat.

Kitty Ping Pong

This game takes your cats love of the bathroom to a whole new level. You will need only a bathtub and some ping pong balls for this game. Make sure to remove any soaps and products you may be storing along your tub and shower. Also plug the bathtub hole so the ball does not settle inside of the hole. Take a ping pong ball and throw it inside of the tub, the unique sound, bounce and smoothness of the ball is what gets your kitty into a frenzy. Your cat will not be able to get the ball inside of its mouth due to size and the smoothness of the ball. This game can also be taken to another level by using a clear shower curtain. Using a closed clear shower curtain while your cat plays allows for you to see but also allows for that love of the shower curtain for your cat. 

Summer Cat Treats

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Cat Strawberry Milk Shake

That's right your cat can indulge in a summer milk shake. You will need cat milk from your local pet store and frozen strawberries. All you need to do is add half a cup of cat milk and a few frozen strawberries and blend. Because strawberry sizes may vary start off with only a few, you can always add a bit more if needed. Never use any type of milk other than cat milk. Other types of milk can cause health problems.

Cat Popsicle

The summer staple of treats. You will need a ice tray, water, and your choice of treats. You can use your cats favorite soft or crunchy treats, tuna, wet food etc. In each slot of the ice tray you want to add some water and mix in your choice of treat. Some treats of course can not be mixed they will just float on the surface of the cube. But this is OK and also works. After your treats have been frozen. Place the Popsicle on a non carpeted floor or you may place in a bowl. Please keep in mind your cat may not be fond of the bowl option and will either paw the Popsicle out or ignore it all together. Your cat will enjoy trying to get to the frozen treats and at the same time get some extra hydration from the water.

Implementing these games and treats into your next house party can be a great social tool for your cat and guests. Including your cat in family functions is very important and can help even a shy cat come out of its shell.

We would love to see your cat enjoying the summer. We welcome everyone to share and post anytime on our Facebook page.

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Picture Note:
Maahes is wearing Private Island Aloha Hawaiian Shirt you can find it by clicking the link below.

Private Island Aloha Hawaiian Shirt

Did you say Specialty Litter? Litter to solve your problems and save your cats life.

Did you say specialty litter, what is that? That's right even the most well seasoned cat owner may not of heard of these litter secrets.

At some point or another we all will face some sort of issue with our litter boxes. Thankfully there is a endless supply of all different types and kinds of litter additives and specialty litters.

One of the most famous specialty litter brands is by Dr. Elsey.
Who is Dr Elsey? Dr. Elsey has been a feline only veterinarian for over 35 years and cares for over 8,000 cats. He designed a exclusive line of products dedicated to the many issues cat owners face when it comes to the litter box.
Unfortunately litter box problems is the number one reason cats are taken to shelters or are abused and abandoned.
Let's dive right into the list of these awesome products that many pet owners and shelters use everyday.

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Specialty Litters and Additives

Dr. Elsey's Cat Attract Cat Litter
This litter uses a herbal base to draw your cat to the litter box. What is great is you do not have to use the entire bag. Most problems can be solved by filling your litter box with your usual brand and adding a thin layer on top of cat attract. This can typically do the trick. If it does not you still have two more stages which include doing a half and half, half of your brand of litter and half cat attract. The final stage would include the entire litter box being filled with cat attract. This is only if your cat has still denied using the litter box after trying stage one and two.

Dr. Elsey's Senior Cat Litter
This litter is perfect for Senior, Arthritic, Overweight and Pregnant cats. These types of cats and condition's typically require a change in litter and it isn't always easy to find a safe alternative. This litter is safe if inhaled or ingested. This litter also uses a herbal base to attract and non toxic biodegradable silica gel crystals to bring cats into the litter box. The silica crystals takes moisture away from the cats hair to keep them fresh and clean. This litter also prevents kidney failure and urinary track infections.

Dr Elsey's Kitten Attract Cat Litter
This formula is specifically for training a kitten. So what is the difference between this and the original cat attract? This formula uses a kitten specific natural herbal attractant and texture. The texture is designed for a kittens tender paws. It is also all natural and is 99.5% dust free for a kittens developing respiratory system.

Dr. Elsey's Touch Of Outdoors Cat Litter
That't right this litter brings a touch of outdoors inside into your litter box. This litter contains field grown prairie grasses and uses natural chlorophyll for odor control. It also includes stress reducing herbs. This litter is perfect for cats who use the bathroom indoors and out and also a great training tool for cats who need to become house broken after living outdoors for a extended period of time.

Dr. Elsey's Respiratory Relief Cat Litter
  This hypoallergenic litter contains no plant proteins with a extremely low dust percentage at 99.9% dust free. It also contains stress reducing herbal essence. This litter is wonderful for a sensitive cat or even cat breeds that commonly have respiratory issues. Not only is this great for cats but also for humans who may have bad allergy's and asthma.

Making sure your cat is healthy and happy starts with a clean litter box. Just like you flush your toilet your cats litter box should be checked and cleaned daily. This helps to keep track of your cats eliminations.

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Extra Advice:
A closed litter box can be subject to ammonia overload. If you own a litter box with a lid or a enclosure, take time out to smell the inside with out removing the lid or enclosure. If you can barely handle the ammonia smell, imagine how your cat feels. Having proper ventilation for a litter box is extremely important besides clean litter. You can potentially give your cat respiratory issues if your litter box builds up in ammonia.

Picture Note:
Maahes is using a Litter Spinner Litter Box in the picture above, you may find more information and colors on this product by clicking the link below.
Litter Spinner Litter Box

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Creating a cat garden can bring happiness and longer lives for you and your cat

Can you believe it, the key to happiness is through plant life. Add your feline companion in the mix and you may just achieve the holy grail of happiness.

Research suggests that having plants around you is beneficial to your health and productivity relative to a barren environment. This goes for us humans and our cats. Let's take a look first at some of the benefits before we dive into creating your new cat garden. 

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Human Benefits

Lower blood pressure

Lower levels of anxiety

Improved well-being

Increased attentiveness

Improved perceptions of a space

Raise productivity

Cat Benefits

Cat benefits vary by plant (outlined below) but the over all atmosphere of having them around increases your cats happiness by over 100%. Don't forget plants clean the air that we breathe so having just a few around is better than none.

So I have officially sold you on getting some plants for the house and maybe in creating a nice outdoor space as well. But what plants are safe?

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Safe Plants with Cat Benefits

Grass: Wheat, Oak and Barley grass. These grasses aid in digestion but also provide nutrients that are less common in pet foods. It can also help aid in resolving hairballs. Cats typically eat small amounts on occasion.

Spider Plant: This plant grows fast and also produces its own babies. Which is great because this plant is like a all you can eat salad bar for your cat.

Mint: Mint is extremely easy to grow. Cats are more likely to roll around and sniff mint than to consume it. Consuming mint is rare but can cause a upset tummy if eaten in large amounts. But is not toxic.

Licorice Root: A healthy lollipop for cats. With such benefits as a anti inflammatory, promotes liver health and can resolve digestive issues.

Lemongrass: Can be grown indoors and out very easily and is also a mild stimulate for your cat. It also offers the same benefits as the other grasses. 

Valerian: Is a stimulant for cats just like catnip. But what makes this plant extra special is it will attract pollinators to its white flowers. The root can actually be used as a sleep aid for humans.

Catnip: The joyful frenzy plant for your cat. I have found that catnip grows best outdoors and will create beautiful long vines. Some cats love catnip and are affected by it while others receive no stimulation from it. As a alternative you can also try Cat Thyme.

Cat Thyme: This plant is typically a summer grower and has beautiful pink flowers. It does like to grow slow but is a wonderful alternative to catnip.

The list above is for plants that are beneficial to your cat upon consumption. 

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There are many other plants that are safe around cats that you may plant as long as they are not toxic. 

For a complete list of safe and non toxic plants the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) has combined a easy list for owners to use free of charge. Please click the link below to be directed to this list.

ASPCA TOXIC AND NON TOXIC PLANT LIST

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New Cat Garden

Now that the learning part is behind us, its time for the creating part. Weather you have a small patio or balcony or even a sun room you can turn anything into a tiny oasis. Here are two fun ideas for you to try out.

Create A Fun Grass Patch

Using a litter box you can create a great contained grass patch. Just pour in some soil and you may plant using any wheat, oak or barley grass or even use bird seed to hatch grass. Your cat will have a nice cool place to hang out.

Planter Hideaway

Using multiple planters, you can use long planters or you can use a bunch of single pots. Create a square or rectangle using the pots. But leave a entry point for your cat to walk in and out the area inside should not be to large. You want your cat to feel cozy and feel like they are hiding. Inside this area you can put your cats favorite type of bedding.

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Creating a cat garden should be fun and relaxing and best of all it is a special time for bonding with your cat. In my experience I have noticed significant behavioral changes in problem cats by adding plants. Creating a tiny oasis can even help cats who get lonely or depressed. 

I know time is a huge factor for everyone. Create a cat garden with your time in mind. A tiny oasis is better then no oasis. With just ten minutes to spare each day you can create both of our ideas listed above. That's less time then most people spend on social media. 

Be happy and healthy together and don't forget to share your experience with us on Facebook (if your not busy expanding your garden). We would love to see what you've created and you may even inspire someone else.

https://www.Facebook.com/internationalhouseofcats

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Pictured: Pharaoh the community cat enjoying his cat garden that his dad made him. Featuring strawberries, cat grass, catnip and other safe plants that are within reaching distance. He also added a sweet touch by adding a cooling mat and raised feeder.

What is a community cat?

Please click on the link below for more information about community cats and to research your community to see if they provide these services for stray cats.

THE ANIMAL FOUNDATION COMMUNITY CAT

Is Your Cat Bored? How About A Bonding Time Treat Recipe

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Do you have a bored kitty on your hands? Sometimes we become so busy in our lives that our furry companion can suffer. Animals tend to suffer more during the summer and holiday seasons due to families becoming increasingly busier. Not spending enough time with your cat or not giving it enough stimulation can result in boredom and even depression. Sometimes cats will even act out to let you know, " Hey remember me!"

The most prominent act is over vocalization and crying to over sleeping. This is typically stage one and can actually escalate into all out destruction of your household. If you ignore the signs your cat may start to urinate outside of its litter box, become aggressive, start to scratch and destroy random objects and even become lethargic.   

The cure, some fun bonding time with your cat. Where do cats love to go? The kitchen! Even if they are not allowed they still want to be where the food is cooking. They can not help themselves. So what better way to cheer up your kitty then to make some awesome cat treats. Your cat will ultimately enjoy the interaction while you cook and imagine your cats surprise when you serve them a plate of homemade treats.

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GRITNIP CAT TREATS

Ingredients: 

1 cup brown rice

1/2 cup Grits

1 Tablespoon of Catnip

2 Eggs

1 can of Tuna in oil

Directions:

Mix flour, grits and catnip together. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs gently and then add the tuna. Break up large pieces with a fork. Add flour mixture to tuna mixture (batter will be fairly dry). Line a cooking sheet with parchment paper or foil. With a rubber spatula, press and shape the batter into a rectangle, about a 1/2 inch thick on top of the parchment paper/foil. With a pizza cutter, slowly cut lines into the catnip dough, making a grid pattern. (This will make perfect, cat sized, square treats.) Bake at 350 degrees for 12-15 minutes. Let cool, then break up treats and serve. Keep unused treats refrigerated. 

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This recipe is part of the Eat Stay Sit cookbook for humans and pets with the proceeds benefiting homeless pets.

To check out more recipes and to purchase a copy for yourself head over to...

http://friendsofnacc.com/support_cookbook.php

We would love to see you bonding with your pet, we welcome visitor posts to our social media anytime...

https://www.Facebook.com/InternationalHouseOfCats

https://www.InternationalHouseOfCats.com