Cats are smart animals who are typically mindful of what they eat. But sometimes, seeds or pollen of a toxic plant get stuck in their fur or on their paws, and cats may ingest toxic substances while grooming themselves. To avoid this and keep your cat safe, all pet parents should take some time to learn the names of plants that are toxic to their health. Some of these plants are mentioned below. Peace lily (spathiphyllum) All its parts, including the leaves, roots, petals, and pollen, should be kept away from cats. If cats ingest peace lilies, they could get acute kidney failure. Other symptoms of poisoning would include vomiting, irritation of the mouth and GI tract, excessive drooling, and in rare cases, difficulty swallowing or breathing. Sago palm (cycas revoluta) Sago palm contains a toxic substance called cycasin, which, when consumed, may result in liver damage in cats. It could also cause vomiting, diarrhea, and black, tarry-looking stool. It could also lead to bruising, excessive thirst, lethargy, and in rare cases, death. Eucalyptus (myrtaceae) Eucalyptus can cause complications like drooling, vomiting, decreased appetite, and diarrhea in cats. The toxicity level of this plant is low, and the symptoms often disappear within 24 hours.

With the critter season just around the corner, it is natural for pet parents to grow cautious. We do all we can to prevent the infestation of ticks, fleas, heartworm, and other disease-causing parasites. One of the best ways to avoid any of the blood-sucking parasites being home guests is to opt for regular vet appointments. However, there are some natural remedies that can be implemented while waiting for the appointment date to arrive. Fleas Fleas cause excessive itching, scratching, and overall annoyance once they latch on to a dog’s fur. If left unresolved, they start laying eggs all around the house, causing a greater nuisance to every resident. Here are certain natural ways to control a flea infestation. Apple cider vinegar Apple cider vinegar sprays and baths work to repel fleas by balancing the pet’s pH levels. This helps make the environment unsustainable for fleas and healthier for our furry friends. Essential oils Essential oils like tea tree, eucalyptus, citronella, rosemary, and peppermint are all capable of repelling fleas. Diluting a few drops of one of these essential oils in water and regularly spraying it onto the pet’s coat is a convenient way of avoiding any flea infestations. Ticks Ticks are small parasitic creatures that can find a home in the fur of our pets.

With the critter season just around the corner, it is natural for pet parents to grow cautious. We do all we can to prevent the infestation of ticks, fleas, heartworm, and other disease-causing parasites. One of the best ways to avoid any of the blood-sucking parasites being home guests is to opt for regular vet appointments. However, there are some natural remedies that can be implemented while waiting for the appointment date to arrive. Fleas Fleas cause excessive itching, scratching, and overall annoyance once they latch on to a dog’s fur. If left unresolved, they start laying eggs all around the house, causing a greater nuisance to every resident. Here are certain natural ways to control a flea infestation. Apple cider vinegar Apple cider vinegar sprays and baths work to repel fleas by balancing the pet’s pH levels. This helps make the environment unsustainable for fleas and healthier for our furry friends. Essential oils Essential oils like tea tree, eucalyptus, citronella, rosemary, and peppermint are all capable of repelling fleas. Diluting a few drops of one of these essential oils in water and regularly spraying it onto the pet’s coat is a convenient way of avoiding any flea infestations. Ticks Ticks are small parasitic creatures that can find a home in the fur of our pets.

Parenting pets, such as dogs, is a wonderful experience. However, tick and flea infestations could become every owner’s and canine’s nightmare. Luckily, there are ways to eliminate and prevent such critters. You could visit a vet to seek prescriptions, flea collars, or for other treatments to rid your dog of these infestations. You could also consult with the vet about using these six kitchen ingredients to reduce ticks and fleas. Apple cider vinegar The combination of apple cider vinegar and salt is the most common kitchen ingredient to ward off ticks and fleas. Using a diluted solution of this combo could help balance your pet’s pH levels to make it optimal for their health while making it unsuitable for fleas. To create the solution, mix six cups of apple cider vinegar with four cups of water. Next, add a dash of sea salt, then spray directly onto your dog’s coat. But ensure that you avoid contact with your pet’s eyes. Baking soda This ingredient does not need to be applied to your pet’s fur; instead, sprinkle it onto the carpet. Once you do this, sweep it from side to side so the powder settles deep within the fibers, which could keep fleas away.

It can be difficult for pet parents to spot signs of illness in their dogs, as these animals are skilled at hiding them. By the time symptoms become noticeable, the illness may have already progressed significantly. Dogs tend to display discomfort when the symptoms worsen, which could mean they have been sick for a while. Therefore, it’s important to be observant of any signs that may indicate your dog is unwell. Increased or decreased urination It’s important to watch out for signs such as difficulty urinating, changes in urine output, or blood in urine to determine if your dog is unwell. This is especially important for senior dogs. Bloody urine could indicate health problems such as bladder stones, urinary tract infections, blood disorders, or cancer. Frequent urination could be a sign of kidney problems. Low energy levels It’s important to keep an eye on your dog’s energy levels. If you notice that they are more lethargic or lazy than usual, it could be a sign that they are feeling under the weather. They may seem unusually tired or sluggish and may not be as playful or responsive as they normally are. If you observe any of these symptoms, taking your dog to the vet for a checkup is a good idea to ensure they are in good health.

Cats are natural but small predators. They believe showing signs of sickness makes them easy prey for other larger predators. That is why they tend to hide their discomfort when feeling unwell. If a cat you care for displays signs of ill health, that can be a major cause of worry, warranting immediate attention from a vet. Watch out for the following changes in behavior or signs that your cat is sick: Vomiting or diarrhea: While vomiting occasionally is not a concern, keep an eye out for the timing and frequency of vomiting and diarrhea, as this may require a trip to the veterinarian. Sudden changes in appetite, drinking, or eating habits: Changes in appetite and eating habits could result from or lead to hyperthyroidism, fatty liver disease, or hepatic lipidosis in cats. Noticeable weight changes: If your cat has been experiencing unexplained weight gain or loss, it may be time to visit the veterinarian. Breathing problems: If your cat is experiencing wheezing, rapid or raspy breathing, or shortness of breath, rush them to the veterinarian for an emergency check-up. Mood changes: If your friendly and confident cat begins to show signs of aggression or fear, you may want to have them checked.

Owning a pet can bring great joy, but it also comes with responsibilities, including veterinary care. While everyone wants the best for their furry family members, the cost of veterinary care can be significant. However, providing excellent care for pets doesn’t mean it has to drain one’s finances. The following article explores ten valuable tips to help one save money on veterinary bills while still providing excellent care for pets. Preventative care is key The old saying, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” holds true in this scenario too. One must ensure their pet receives the vaccinations as recommended by the veterinarian. These vaccinations can prevent common and often costly diseases. Preventive care also includes regular screening for pets. Regular check-ups Routine check-ups with the veterinarian are essential for a pet’s overall health. These vet visits can detect health issues early, saving on costly treatments. During check-ups, pet parents must discuss their pet’s food regimen, exercise, and any concerns they may have. Comparison shop for veterinary clinics Like with any service, prices for veterinary care can vary from one clinic to another. Take the time to compare prices and services offered by different clinics in the area.

As the warmer months approach, many pet owners and outdoor enthusiasts are gearing up for more time spent outdoors. However, with the great outdoors come unwanted pests like fleas and ticks, which can be a nuisance for humans and their furry companions. While chemical-based repellents are commonly used, there are natural alternatives that can help keep these pests at bay. One such alternative is using plants that naturally repel fleas and ticks. 1. Lavender Lavender is a natural flea and tick repellent. These insects are repelled by the strong fragrance of lavender, making them an excellent choice for gardens or indoor pots. Planting lavender in one’s garden or outdoor sitting areas can deter fleas and ticks from bothering inhabitants and their pets. 2. Rosemary This versatile herb acts as a natural pest repellent; its aromatic scent acts as a deterrent to fleas and ticks. One can plant rosemary in their garden or create a natural spray by boiling rosemary leaves and using the infused water as a pet-friendly flea and tick repellent. 3. Mint Like peppermint and spearmint, mint plants emit a strong scent that fleas and ticks find unpleasant. Planting mint around one’s garden or patio can help keep these pesky insects away.

Bully sticks, often touted as the ultimate chew-time companion for dogs, have secured their place as a beloved treat. These all-natural treats serve multiple needs in a little pup’s life. The primary purpose of bully sticks lies in satiating a dog’s instinctive need to chew. Chewing on bully sticks offers dogs a wholesome outlet for their energy and anxiety. Additionally, this gnawing action helps maintain healthy dental hygiene by reducing plaque and tartar buildup. 5 best bully sticks for little pups Pawstruck Bully Sticks One standout option for pups is the Pawstruck Bully Sticks, sourced from high-quality, free-range, grass-fed cattle. These single-ingredient treats contain no artificial additives or preservatives, ensuring a natural and healthy chewing experience. Available in various sizes, they cater to different breeds and chewing styles and are oven-baked to lock in flavor and nutrition. One of the reasons buyers prefer Pawstruck is because it is sold by weight instead of the number of sticks. This eliminates the problem caused by inconsistent sizing of the bully sticks. Nature Gnaws For those seeking an economical yet high-quality option, Nature Gnaws Natural Dog Chews fit the bill. Sourced from free-range, grass-fed cattle in South America, these treats are a single-ingredient delight with no added hormones, chemicals, or preservatives.

A pet’s overall well-being is every pet parent’s ultimate desire and objective. However, life is unpredictable, and despite one’s best efforts, a pet may require healthcare assistance for health conditions, accidents, and injuries. Pet insurance helps pet owners alleviate the financial repercussions of such untoward events through financial compensation. It is advisable to opt for pet insurance from a reputed insurance company. Here are some common mistakes to avoid while securing pet insurance: Assuming that all healthcare services are covered A common mistake by pet parents is to assume that an insurance policy covers all healthcare services and requirements. For example, some insurance policies may not cover pet pregnancy-related complications, while some may exclude dental checkups and procedures. Thus, it is important for pet parents to browse the list of healthcare services a pet insurance policy includes under its hood and zero in on a policy based on this factor. Only considering the premium Although paying a high premium may burn a hole in one’s pocket, insurance policies with low premiums may sometimes not cover all the essential healthcare expenses. In such cases, one may end up spending a much higher amount at the veterinary hospital in case of a health emergency that the policy does not cover.