People with cats often get frustrated by their pets’ scratching habits. Fluffy has definitely destroyed a few sofas in her day! However, it’s important to realize that your feline pal isn’t trying to ruin your things. Cats have a natural, deep-seated urge to scratch. This makes purrfect sense. After all, kitties depend on their claws for survival in the wild. A good scratching post is a must for our furry friends. Here, a Pasadena, TX vet discusses picking scratching posts. 

Make Sure It’s Tall Enough

Kitties like to stretch as they are sharpening their claws. Pick something that is tall enough to allow your feline buddy to do this. If Fluffy is still a kitten, you’ll want to make sure her scratching post will accommodate her when she’s all grown up.

Get Something Sturdy

If Fluffy’s nail-care station wobbles when she uses it—or worse, falls over—she may become frightened of it. Choose something that will stand up to your pet’s antics. 

Make It Appealing

Once you’ve picked out the scratching post, you’ll want to make it inviting for your pet. If you’ve chosen a cat tower, position it before a window with a good view. Kitties love birdwatching! Sprinkling catnip around the scratching post, and offering your furry little diva toys, treats, and attention near it, will also help.

Keep Fluffy’s Age In Mind

If your furball is still a kitten, she’ll likely enjoy something that incorporates hanging toys and lets her climb to different levels. Adult cats often enjoy high vantage points, so a grown-up kitty may like a cat tower with a few different levels. Once Fluffy is a senior, she’ll become much less active, and may be more interested in just napping. Choose something that’s easy for her to reach.

Consider Going DIY

If you don’t have the room in your budget for a scratching post, consider making one. You can build one from scratch by upcycling an old stepladder, bookshelf, or storage rack. Add planks to the shelves to widen them out into kitty lounging spots. Then, use carpet or sisal rope to cover the whole thing. If you’re feeling more adventurous, look online for instructions on building one from scratch out of lumber or PVC pipe.

Make An Appointment At Our Pasadena, TX Pet Clinic

Choosing the right scratching post helps keep your cat active and your furniture safe. Our Pasadena pet clinic can recommend options and provide guidance on creating a stimulating environment for your feline friend. Contact us today for expert tips.

5. Keeping Fido Hydrated — La Porte, TX

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Keeping Fido Hydrated

Summer is a fun time of year for our canine companions. Fido gets to enjoy all sorts of outdoor activities, like sniffing grass and chasing squirrels. However, your pet can get hot very quickly running and playing on sunny days. Keeping your pooch hydrated is extremely important! A La Porte, TX vet offers some tips on this below. 

Water

First and foremost, make sure that Fido always has plenty of water. If you have a big dog, a yard, or more than one pup, set out a few different water stations. Be sure to clean the bowls daily, as otherwise they’ll soon collect dust and bugs. 

Fountain

Did you know that many dogs prefer running water? Consider getting your pet a fountain. There are many different types, including some that spray water when Fido steps on a pad. This is not only a great way to keep your canine pal hydrated, it’s also adorable to watch! 

Treats

If possible, opt for treats that have a high moisture content. Doggy ice cream is a great choice, and will definitely get that cute tail going. You can buy some in pet stores, or just make your own. For a base, use ripe bananas, peanut butter, organic baby food, plain yogurt, sodium-free broth, or pureed pumpkin. Or, mix and match! For toppings, you can use things like bacon bits, cheese, shredded meat, canned chicken or tuna, kibble, or safe fruits and veggies. Ask your vet for specific advice.

Broth

Did you know that sodium-free broth is a great treat for dogs? It contains electrolytes, which will help keep your pooch hydrated. Offer Fido a cool bowl on hot days. You can also pour some broth into ice cube trays, and let him enjoy some frozen broth. 

Ice

Speaking of ice, go ahead and add a few ice cubes to Fido’s bowl when it’s really hot out. Just be careful not to give him too many! 

Food 

Every dog has different nutritional needs, so you’ll really want to consult your vet before making any changes to your furry friend’s menu. If there are no objections, you can increase the moisture content of Fido’s food by adding water or broth to it. Or, switch to canned food, which has more water in it. 

Schedule An Appointment With Our La Porte, TX Veterinary Clinic

Keeping your dog hydrated is essential for their health, especially during hot weather. Our La Porte veterinary clinic can offer advice on hydration strategies and monitoring your pup’s needs. Book an appointment to keep Fido healthy and happy.