Uncategorized Archives - Mad Paws Wed, 28 Feb 2024 00:58:19 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.3 Why Do Dogs Like Belly Rubs? https://www.madpaws.com.au/blog/why-do-dogs-like-belly-rubs/ https://www.madpaws.com.au/blog/why-do-dogs-like-belly-rubs/#respond Thu, 10 Feb 2022 23:00:36 +0000 https://www.madpaws.com.au/blog/how-to-introduce-your-dog-and-cat-copy/ Dogs and belly rubs go together like fish and chips, but have you ever wondered why they love them so…

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Dogs and belly rubs go together like fish and chips, but have you ever wondered why they love them so much? Is it simply because they feel good? Or is there some scientific reason behind it? Well, we’re here to answer the question of, “why do dogs like belly rubs?” once and for all!

Why do dogs like belly rubs?

There’s still a lot we don’t know about dog psychology, and when it comes to belly rubs, there are more than a few theories as to why our furry friends love them so much. Without further ado, here are some of the most common reasons why your pup might want belly rubs.

#1: It feels good

The best theory as to why doggos love tummy scratches is the simplest – they feel good! A 2013 study of mice found that the neurons linked to hair follicles were activated when stroked, creating a pleasant sensation. In basic terms, animals (including humans!) receive pleasure when their hair or fur is stroked.

Likewise, previous studies have shown that, when we pet our furry friends, they release endorphins (feel-good chemicals) and oxytocin (also known as the love hormone). So not only does it physically feel nice, but it also makes their brains feel good! As for us humans, petting dogs lowers our cortisol (the stress hormone) levels and releases oxytocin in us, too. Win-win!

#2: They’re showing you they trust you

For a dog to roll onto their back in front of you or their trusted Pet Sitter shows a great deal of trust. Anatomically speaking, they’re exposing the most vulnerable part of their body (i.e. where all the major organs are). If your pupper is willing to roll onto their back (and, of course, be rewarded with belly rubs), it shows there is a real bond between the two of you.

#3: They need help scratching an itch

Ever had an itch you couldn’t quite reach? It’s happened to all of us, but for our canine friends who lack humans’ superior mobility and scratching tools (a.k.a. hands), it’s a pretty common occurrence. The belly is one of the trickiest areas for a dog to reach, so it’s possible your pupper isn’t just asking for belly rubs because they feel like it. Instead, they could be asking for your assistance to help them scratch that annoying itch!

#4: They want attention

Look, pooches are pretty affectionate creatures, and if they’re not getting as much love as they want, they sure know how to demand it! If your pup is in need of a little attention, there’s a few things they might do to ask for it. In addition to rolling onto their backs and soliciting some tummy rubs, they may also nudge you with their nose, paw at you, whine at you or even jump on you.

Are they asking for belly rubs or being submissive?

While wanting belly rubs is one reason why dogs roll onto their back, the other reason they do it is to show submission. In fact, you might have seen them do it when meeting new, unfamiliar dogs. Thankfully, there are a few ways to tell if your dog is being submissive. Here are some signs to look out for:

  • Tense, frozen posture
  • Mouth closed with lips pulled back (almost like a smile) and lots of licking
  • Wide-open, alert eyes, often staring into the distance
  • Tense or tucked tail which may be wagging or completely still
  • Soft whines

If you notice any of these signs, it’s highly unlikely that they’re asking for belly rubs. In fact, patting them may increase their anxiety, so try to give them some space.

How to tell if your dog likes belly rubs (and if they don’t)

Now that we know why dogs like belly rubs, there’s something important to remember. Every dog is different, and just because your dog loves a good scratch on the tummy, not every dog you meet will. Pups that are familiar to you (like your own, or a friend or family member’s doggo) are more likely to trust you and therefore may love tummy rubs. On the other hand, if you’re meeting a dog for the first time, you might want to take it slow. Try befriending the pup and taking cues from them. 

If your pooch exhibits the following signs, chances are they’re almost certainly loving it.

  • Relaxed, wiggly posture
  • Relaxed, open mouth (occasionally with their tongue hanging out!)
  • Eyes open and bright or squinting, but not focusing on anything in particular
  • Relaxed, wagging tail
  • Light panting sounds, if any noise at all

Conversely, here are some signs your dog isn’t enjoying their tummy scratches.

  • Tense posture that relaxes when you stop
  • Wide eyes
  • Licking their lips
  • Tense or tucked tail
  • Pawing at you as if to push you away

Remember, if your dog doesn’t seem to want scratches, it doesn’t mean they don’t love and trust you. It could be that they’re not in the mood, or it’s possible they simply don’t like belly rubs! In either case, respect their need for space and work on other ways to show your affection.

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How to: Introduce Your Dog and Cat https://www.madpaws.com.au/blog/how-to-introduce-your-dog-and-cat/ https://www.madpaws.com.au/blog/how-to-introduce-your-dog-and-cat/#respond Thu, 10 Feb 2022 22:05:26 +0000 https://www.madpaws.com.au/blog/how-to-cat-hair-copy/ We’ve all seen the viral videos of cats and dogs curled up in the most adorable cuddle puddle imaginable. It…

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We’ve all seen the viral videos of cats and dogs curled up in the most adorable cuddle puddle imaginable. It just makes your heart melt. But it also might make you wonder whether the furbabies in your own home could ever learn to live so harmoniously with each other.

Whether you’ve been struggling to get your pets to like each other or you’re thinking of introducing a new member to the furry family, don’t worry. With some patience and intentionality, you can introduce your dog and cat in a way that will improve the chances for future cuddle sessions. You’re going to want to get your camera ready with these tips on introducing furry friends-to-be!

First, let’s talk about pupper politeness

Often, the biggest hurdle to successful relationship-building between dogs and cats is that dogs are, well, a little much for cats to handle. Some dogs tend to be excited and playful, while others see cats as something fun to chase. That’s why it’s crucial to get your dog’s behaviour under control before ever stepping foot in your feline’s territory!

Here are few basic cues that Fido should be excellent at before you introduce your dog and cat:

  • Sit or lay down
  • Stay
  • Leave it

It’s also a brilliant idea to desensitise and counter condition your dog to your cat or cats in general at a distance before moving on to the next step. This will include exposing your dog to the smell, sound and sight of cats and rewarding your dog for calm behaviour. Teaching your dog to be relaxed around small animals will be incredibly useful when you’re ready to bring your pupper snout-to-snout with their furrever friend.

If your dog is especially cat-hesitant, take a look at our article, How to Get Your Dog to Like Cats

Ask your cat about their ideal first date

Okay, no. You can’t actually ask your cat what they would want from a first meeting with your dog. But, you can learn more about feline behaviour and use it to make the conditions just right for your introduction! Here are a few things your cat would like you to know before you put them in a room with the dog:

  • They want to do a background check. Before your cat comes whiskers-to-whiskers with the dog, they’ll want to gather as much information as possible. You can help them by allowing them to sniff some of the dog’s toys, explore the area where the dog spends the most time, and watch the dog from a safe distance (such as in a windowsill while the dog is playing outside.) This will help your cat feel less surprised when they come into contact with your dog. 
  • They want to have the high ground. Cats are natural tree-dwellers, which means that they’ll feel much more comfortable meeting Fido from above. This could be a cat tree or non-slippery shelves or ledges where your cat feels comfortable.
  • They don’t want to feel cornered. Even if your dog is the perfect gentleman or lady, your cat will want to know they have an escape route if need be. If they do decide to leave early, let them go! Just make sure that the dog doesn’t chase after them.
  • They want to be in charge. You might have spent weeks training your dog to be the perfect cat companion, but at the end of the day, your cat is going to call the shots here! Make sure to take cues from your cat’s body language.

It’s important to remember that cats are the prey animal in this relationship! So you’ll want to go out of your way to learn what they need to feel comfortable. 

It’s time to introduce your dog and cat!

You’ve gone over basic doggy manners with your dog and created a soothing environment for your cat. It’s time for the two to finally meet each other!

But before you do, make sure to exercise your dog so that they’re in a good, calm mood. If you can’t get your pooch out yourself, consider calling in a friendly Dog Walker to take them on a brisk walk. Or, play a rigorous game of tug or fetch in the backyard.

Then, with Fido on leash and a bag of treats in hand, introduce your dog and cat in an area that meets all of your cat’s comfort requirements. If your dog can stay calm, reward them with treats and positive praise. If your dog is overly excited, remove them until they’re calm and try again.

Your cat may not be as willing to accept treats as their future furry friend, but you should try giving them some special treatment as well. This will allow your cat to build positive associations with the dog.

If your first meeting is very short, or a series of very short sessions, that’s okay! It’s actually preferable that these early interactions last no longer than a few minutes at a time. With consistency, your dog and cat should be able to remain calm around each other for longer periods.

How long after you introduce your dog and cat can you expect them to be mates?

Every dog and cat dynamic is different, which is why it’s impossible to say how long it will take for them to warm up to each other.

In some cases, cats and dogs who have been properly introduced only need a few hours to go from strangers to BFFs. But it’s much more common for dogs and cats to need more time, up to weeks or months, before they feel comfortable in each other’s presence.

The most important thing is that you stay consistent. Short daily sessions will allow your furbabies to start seeing each other as a predictable part of their everyday lives.

What if it seems like your dog and cat are destined to distrust each other?

Maybe you’ve been trying for months to introduce your dog and cat and they don’t seem to be making any progress. Here are a few final words of advice:

  • Serve meals on opposite sides of the door. Sometimes it can be helpful to build positive associations with your pets by using the thing they love most in the world: food! By feeding them on opposite sides of a door, they can begin to associate their meals with the presence of the other pet. Over time, you might be able to replace the door with a baby gate or other transparent barrier. 
  • Play distraction games with your dog around the cat. In the animal world, eye contact is a big no-no. And your dog might be making your cat uncomfortable by staring! You can interrupt this behaviour by distracting your dog with a training session or scent tracking game. 
  • Call in an animal behaviourist. Animal behaviourists are trained in pet psychology so that you can be sure that you’re using the right techniques with your dog and cat. Having a professional in the room is a fantastic way to move things along in the safest way possible.
  • Always consider your pet’s safety and wellbeing. In some cases, dogs and cats are simply not destined to be best friends. If your pets are not making progress, fighting, or generally showing symptoms of stress, it might be time to admit that they’re happier in their own spaces. Don’t leave them alone together, and consider calling on the help of an experienced Pet Sitter when you can’t be there to supervise.

Are you ready to introduce your dog and cat?

With some planning, training, treats, and plenty of patience, you can introduce your dog and cat in a way that is most likely to result in a special canine-feline bond! 

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Does My Dog Need a Seat Belt in the Car? https://www.madpaws.com.au/blog/does-my-dog-need-a-seat-belt-in-the-car/ https://www.madpaws.com.au/blog/does-my-dog-need-a-seat-belt-in-the-car/#comments Wed, 09 Feb 2022 22:30:56 +0000 https://www.madpaws.com.au/blog/why-does-my-dog-eat-grass-copy/ Every time you get in the car, it’s probably second nature to check the mirrors, press play on your driving…

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Every time you get in the car, it’s probably second nature to check the mirrors, press play on your driving playlist, and, of course, put on your seatbelt. But what about your canine copilot? Do they need a dog seat belt to drive safely with you?

No matter if you’re driving your pooch to their caring Pet Sitter’s home or starting an epic road trip, it’s always a good idea to keep your pup safe and secure while you drive. In this article, we’ll cover all your questions about how to make sure that Fido is clicked in and ready to go!

What are the dog seat belt laws in Australia?

Though you might not have been tested on them during your Driver Knowledge Test, there are specific laws on the books about car safety for pets. Each state is slightly different, but most require the dog to be away from the driver. Some states, like NSW, will issue fines for unrestrained dogs inside the car or in the back of a ute.

As you might have guessed, these laws are as much about animal welfare as they are about driver safety. Doggos who are excited, nervous, or simply inexperienced in the car are at risk for injury or jumping or falling out of open windows. Having your dog unrestrained in your car also poses a risk to your ability to focus while potentially distracting other drivers on the road. 

So, even if the laws in your state are less restrictive than others, it’s a good idea to find the right way to keep your pup as safe as possible on the road.

does my dog need a seat belt in the car

Are there different kinds of seat belts for dogs?

In general, you’ll find three main types of dog seat belt options on the market:

  • Seat belt attachment. A seat belt attachment is one of the most popular models for Dog Owners and features a short leash that attaches your dog’s harness to the seat belt receptacle, seat belt strap, or car seat. This style is best suited for dogs who may be overly active in the car or suffer from motion sickness, as the dog seat belt tends to keep them in place and facing forward.
  • Pet car seats. Pet car seats, or pet car beds, are perfect for furry friends who feel more comfortable in a cozy, travel bed. Many, like the SASH Premium Dog Car Bed, feature a booster seat so they can more comfortably look out of the window while sitting down!
  • Zipline runner. This dog leash contains two parts—a leash and a zipline—to give your dog freedom to move in the back of the car. The ends of the zipline attach to the interior of the car so that the leash can slide back and forth as your dog moves. If your dog has a tendency to want to look at the sights on both sides of the car, a zipline dog seat belt is the way to go.
dog car bed seat belt

Discover the SASH Premium Dog Car Bed

Should a seat belt be attached to a dog’s collar or harness?

Many of the dog seat belts you can buy are fitted with a simple clasp or carabiner that can attach to a harness. So, you might wonder how to leash up your pup to their seat belt.

Overall, the choice is up to you. But, most dog experts recommend attaching the dog seat belt to a secure harness. In the case that you need to suddenly stop the car, or your pup has a tendency to try lunging out of the car as you open the door, a harness comes with a lower risk of neck injury.

If your dog doesn’t normally wear a harness, and you want to buy one for the road, look for models that have been crash tested. 

Is a dog seat belt better than a crate?

Australian law doesn’t specify whether you should restrain your dog with a dog seat belt or crate, so ultimately, you can choose!

If you’ve worked on crate training at home, a car carrier may be the most comfortable option for your pooch. You can also find many travel crates that have been crash tested to ensure maximum safety for your dog.

If your dog tends to experience anxiety in a crate or in the car, a seat belt may be a better option. Seat belts give dogs the ability to see their surroundings and their beloved humans, which will help them to feel more settled on the road.

No matter which option you choose, there are a few key steps you should take to make your pup feel better about every road trip.

How should you introduce your dog to a dog seat belt?

Whether your dog is a pro at loose leash walking or they live their life mostly leash-free, you’ll still want to introduce them to a dog seat belt slowly. After all, being in a moving vehicle is a unique environment that can mean excitement, anxiety, motion sickness, or a range of other emotions for your dog. And, you don’t want to make the situation worse by restraining them before they’re ready.

Here are a few tips to get your dog road trip ready:

  • Introduce all driving equipment inside the home. It’s always best to introduce new collars, harnesses, and in this case, dog seat belts when your dog is in a familiar environment. Over the course of a few days or weeks, your goal will be to help your dog see their driving gear as a good thing! They should be able to wear it comfortably around the house (or in the case of a driving crate, spend time inside) before moving onto the next step. Some dogs will be fine wearing their dog seat belt from the start; others will take time and treats to come around
  • Load up, but don’t go anywhere just yet. It’s one thing for your pup to wear their driving gear at home, and quite another to wear it in the car. Especially if it took a while to get your dog comfortable with their dog seat belt or harness at home, you’ll want to spend extra time introducing them to the equipment in the car. And, because you want to be able to give your dog plenty of treats and verbal praise to promote calm behaviour, don’t start driving until you’re sure that your dog is ready
  • Try out short trips, after some exercise. When you are ready to test out your dog’s tolerance to driving with their dog seat belt, set them up for success by exercising them beforehand, and keeping your trips short. If you’re picking your pooch up from their Pet Sitter, for example, you might request that they have a play session or walk with your dog before you arrive. And if your pup is really struggling with feeling restrained in the car, you might only take trips around the block and rely on a helper to drive while you comfort your dog
  • Review our other tips for keeping your dog safe in the car. Safely restraining your furry friend in the car is just one way to ensure a successful road trip! Take a look at our other tips for preparing your pup to be a happy canine copilot!

Final thoughts on using a dog seat belt

Overall, you want to choose the restraint option that is safest and most comfortable for your unique doggo. Whether you opt for a doggy zipline, dog seat belt harness, small dog basket, or cozy carrier, once your dog is clicked in, you can hit the road with peace of mind!

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Why Does My Dog Eat Grass? https://www.madpaws.com.au/blog/why-does-my-dog-eat-grass/ https://www.madpaws.com.au/blog/why-does-my-dog-eat-grass/#comments Tue, 08 Feb 2022 22:30:42 +0000 https://www.madpaws.com.au/blog/how-to-cat-hair-copy/ Why does my dog eat grass? If you’ve never asked yourself the question, you’d be in the minority of Dog…

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Why does my dog eat grass? If you’ve never asked yourself the question, you’d be in the minority of Dog Owners! Because as far as doggy habits go, most dogs will chow down on a tuft of grass at some point in their lives. And for many puppers, the behaviour goes well beyond the occasional nibble.

As common as grass eating is in dogs, it’s also quite misunderstood! As we mentioned in our article, 5 Things People Get Wrong About Dogs, the age-old explanation that dogs eat grass to soothe an upset tummy has been largely debunked. The good news is, the real reasons why your dog might eat grass are even more interesting. And, there are plenty of simple steps that you and your dedicated Dog Walker can take to keep your pooch from overdoing it on their grassy greens. Roll out a picnic blanket in your favourite grassy spot and let’s get started!

Why does my dog eat grass, really?

For many years, there was one prominent belief about this doggy behaviour: dogs eat grass when they’re feeling sick to induce vomiting. But, the truth is, dogs who like to nibble on foliage will do so when they’re not feeling sick. And the majority of dogs who eat grass do not vomit afterwards. So, the myth has been doubly debunked. 

Why, then, does my dog eat grass? 

As it turns out, there are a few different theories behind why a dog is likely to develop a grass-eating habit. Here are some of the most common.

  • Grass is a natural source of fibre. Contrary to popular belief, dogs are natural omnivores, meaning that they benefit from a balance of meat and veggies in their diet. While your doggo undoubtedly gets enough fibre from their kibble or raw food, chowing down on grass might be an evolutionary trait to promote healthy digestion
  • Chewing grass provides mental stimulation. If you were an outdoor-loving kiddo, you might remember making daisy chains and picking grass and flowers every chance you got. Ripping up and chewing on grass gives your dog the same joy and satisfaction. Put simply, many dogs eat grass because they like it!
  • Some theories suggest that grass may be a natural defense against intestinal parasites. In studies of wolf foraging habits, researchers have found parasites such as roundworms attached to leaves and grass in the scat of the wild canines. This could suggest that wolves developed a grass-eating habit as a way to promote gut health
  • Foraging and chewing can soothe anxiety. Just like you might nibble on your fingernails or pick up the knitting needles when you feel stressed, your dog has their own coping mechanisms to deal with anxiety. Chewing on grass, furniture, and a range of other items may be how your dog lowers their stress levels
  • Some dogs eat grass as a symptom of pica. In less common cases, dogs may eat grass as a result of a health condition called pica. While there are a few different causes for pica, the condition is generally characterised by a tendency to eat inanimate objects like grass, rocks, soil, clothing, and sometimes even poop

Should I let my dog eat grass?

Given that many of the reasons for grass grazing are harmless, should you allow your doggo to dine on your lawn? Well, no. And here’s why.

  • Unknown grass can contain pesticides and chemical fertilisers. You might know that your grass at home is safe, but that won’t be the case when you’re out and about with your pupper
  • Grass can harbour internal parasites. Yes, we know, we just mentioned the theory about grass flushing the digestive system of internal parasites. But, the fact is, parasites like hookworm and tapeworm can also live in grass, so it’s a bit of a catch-22. Your best bet is to get your dog on a reliable parasite prevention medication and train them to leave their grass eating days behind
  • Some dogs go overboard. Once your pupper has developed a taste for your lawn, it’s not uncommon for them to overindulge to the point of feeling sick. You might also find that your dog is such an enthusiastic grass eater that it becomes difficult to regain their attention when there’s a big, beautiful lawn in their view. You can see why this might be an issue for yourself and your dog’s friendly Dog Walker!

As you can see, there are a few compelling reasons to phase out grass eating from your dog’s list of favourite activities. So, how can you keep your pup from eating grass?

How to put an end to grass eating

No matter if your dog is a seasoned grass grazer or has recently picked up the habit, your training method will be essentially the same. Here’s how to train your dog to stop eating grass:

  • Work on the “leave it” command. Before you step paw on a grassy field, you’ll want to work on a “leave it” command at home so that your dog knows not to eat things without your approval. Once your dog has mastered the command inside, you can work in the backyard and eventually in new, exciting areas
  • Always supervise your dog in grassy areas. Until your dog is reliably uninterested in eating grass, they should never be left to sniff around in grassy areas without close supervision
  • Offer enticing alternatives. The bulk of your work here will be teaching your dog that there are more interesting things to do on grass than eat it! Whether it’s a game of fetch, frisbee, or freeplay with furry friends, provide them with plenty of planned activities to keep your dog from focusing on the grass. When your dog does start to nibble at the grass, gently remind them to “leave it” and encourage them to engage in another activity instead. This will take repetition and some creativity on the part of the trainer, but it will be much more effective than harsh punishments, which can lead to resource guarding or sneaky grass eating behaviour
  • Provide your dog with other opportunities for foraging. To you, grass eating is an annoying behaviour. To your doggo, it’s a fun hobby! Instead of trying to suppress the habit altogether, give your dog more appropriate opportunities to forage with puzzle toys, at-home scavenger hunts, and other mentally stimulating activities. With their desire to forage satisfied, you’ll have a much easier time keeping them away from the grass during your daily outings
  • Add some fibrous treats to the rotation. Your dog might be eating grass as a way to supplement the fibre in their diet. As long as they’re on a nutritionist-approved diet, you don’t have to worry too much about whether they’re getting enough fibre. But, you can satisfy the natural drive by having some dog-friendly veggies, like broccoli and apples, on hand
  • Address any underlying conditions such as anxiety or pica. If your dog is chewing grass for any reason other than they enjoy it, it’s a good idea to get some advice from your veterinarian or a veterinary behaviorist. They’ll be able to put together the best plan for your dog’s unique needs

Have another answer to the question, “Why does my dog eat grass?” We’d love to hear about your grass-eating pooch!

As a Dog Owner, you know that whether they’re rolling around in it, sniffing it, or chomping on it, dogs love grass! What are some tactics that you’ve used to keep your furry lawn mower in check? Now that you know the answer to the question, “Why does my dog eat grass,” will you try out a new method?

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How to: Cat Hair https://www.madpaws.com.au/blog/how-to-cat-hair/ https://www.madpaws.com.au/blog/how-to-cat-hair/#respond Tue, 08 Feb 2022 22:25:42 +0000 https://www.madpaws.com.au/blog/how-to-deal-with-a-reactive-dog-copy/ As a Cat Owner, you’ve probably had someone (or just about everyone) look at your clothes and say, “Oh, do…

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As a Cat Owner, you’ve probably had someone (or just about everyone) look at your clothes and say, “Oh, do you have pets?” In the best case scenario, it’s a good conversation starter. In the worst, you’re realising that despite your best effort to remove all cat hair prior to that big presentation at work, somehow, your professional clothes are still covered in fluff.

Are you destined for a life of cat hair on everything you own? Or are there solutions that could actually allow you to live fluff-free? In this article, we’re combing our way through some of the best tips and tricks for dealing with cat hair!

Why is cat fur so tough to manage?

No matter if you have a luxuriously long haired Maine Coon or a silky-soft Somali Cat with short hair, most cats have the same basic coat type. There’s a downy under layer of fluff to keep them warm, and a protective outer layer that serves as a dirt shield, camouflage, and UV protection. 

You might find, then, that you’ve managed to find a tool that picks up loose fur from the outer coat layer, which is thicker and more visible, but fails to grasp the wispy soft furs of the underlayer. 

Another issue here is that cat fur is typically lighter and drier than other natural fibres, like human hair or wool. That means that with the slightest amount of static electricity, cat fur will stick to just about anything! 

Finally, there’s the simple fact that cats are self-grooming machines! Having a clean coat is a top priority for your feline friend, and they’re spending a huge part of their day actively removing loose fur…all over your home and clothes.

💬 Fun fact: Not all cats shed!
Your mind may automatically jump to hairless cats like the
Sphynx, but they’re not the only ones. If you’re looking to add a low-shedding cat to your family, you might consider a breed in the curly hair category, such as the Cornish Rex.

Investing in the right grooming tools

As we’ve established, part of the reason why it’s so difficult to keep up with your cat’s shedding is because they’re constantly grooming themselves. But, if you can incorporate a daily grooming practice, less of that fallen fur will end up on your furniture!

For short-haired cats, a standard slicker brush will pick up fur from both coat layers. You might also finish off your grooming session with a rubber grooming glove that will pick up loose fur from the outer coat.

In addition to a slicker brush, long haired cats need a shedding comb or de-matting brush that will detangle any knots, especially around the neck and in hard-to-reach areas.

Of course, once you buy the right grooming tools, you’ll need to make sure that your cat is comfortable and willing to be groomed everyday! Desensitise them slowly to the grooming supplies and offer plenty of treats to keep them interested and calm. Never force your cat to sit for a grooming session, otherwise, the stress could make their shedding even worse!

Reduce your cat’s overall stress

Speaking of stress-related shedding, it’s quite common for cats to lose more fur when they’re uncomfortable in their environment. Whether there’s a new family member in the home or you’ve moved the furniture around, a cat’s sensitivity to changes can prompt them to spend more time grooming. 

Luckily, there are many ways to help your cat feel more comfortable in their space. If you’re noticing signs of anxiety or stress in your cat, installing cat shelving and other elevated areas for them to rest can give them a sense of security. And, daily exercise and calming pheromones can help regulate their mood and encourage relaxation. If you’re going to be leaving your furbaby for long periods, you can help them feel less stressed by calling in a doting Cat Sitter!

Keep in mind, also, that certain medical conditions can cause stress and hair loss in cats. If you think that your cat’s excessive grooming has something to do with their health, don’t hesitate to reach out to your vet.

cat hair groomingGet serious about cleaning tools

When it comes to cat hair, your standard house cleaning tools might not cut it! You’re going to want at least some of the following cleaning supplies:

  • Lint rollers. Gone are the days of disposable lint rollers that always ran out on the day that you had that job interview or first date. With reusable, rollable pet hair removers, you’ll always be able to leave the house fur-free. Make sure to get a big enough lint roller for larger surfaces like lounges, and maybe a small travel pet hair remover, too!
  • Rubber cleaning gloves. It might surprise you to learn that you already have one of the best pet hair removal supplies right in your cleaning closet! Rubber cleaning gloves pick up an impressive amount of cat hair through friction, and they allow you to remove fur from nooks and crannies that your lint roller can’t reach
  • Pet hair broom. This soft-bristled rubber or silicone broom is another recent advancement in the world of pet care. Because cat hair is often too wispy and light to be properly sweeped with a traditional broom, pet hair brooms do a much better job of picking up cat fur and dander from your floors
  • Cat hair laundry tool. You’ve probably noticed that washing clothes seems to remove everything except cat hair. You can fix this problem with specially designed laundry tools that trap pet hair during the wash. And, for an extra step, throw in a few microfibre towels in the dryer; the synthetic fibres will pull cat hairs off of your clothes
  • High powered vacuum. Vacuuming is the crucial last step in removing pet hair from your home. You’ll be glad that you spent a bit of extra money on one that has the power to pick up cat hair. After all, you’ll be using it often!

Okay, this sounds like a lot of cleaning supplies. Just how much time are you going to have to spend to keep your home fur-free? The truth is, picking up pet hair for a few minutes everyday can go a long way in managing the fur problem in your home! It’s better to clean more frequently, so that the cat hair doesn’t have the chance to embed itself into soft surfaces.

Clean your air filters and fans

As a Pet Owner, it’s a good idea to clean or change your air filters more frequently than a household without pets. Your cat’s fine dander will get trapped in fans and filters quickly, so make sure to prevent build-up by checking and cleaning the filters once a month or once every two months.

Anticipate the shedding season

Cats typically shed year-round, but they also have a coat-blowing period in preparation for winter and summer. If you notice that your cat sheds more during autumn and spring, get on top of it by taking a few extra minutes for grooming every day. And remember that changes in how much your cat sheds could also be stress-related. So if your furry friend is losing lots of fur outside of the coat-blowing season, consider whether there’s an underlying cause. 

Learn to love the fluff, without letting it take over your life!

You love your fluffy little feline, but it’s perfectly understandable for you to be frustrated by their fur! The good news is, with just a few minutes of grooming and cleaning per day, you can get on top of the shedding storm. And, remember that a lifestyle that keeps your cat happy, with regular playtime and visits from their favourite Pet Sitter when you’re gone, can go a long way in preventing stress-shedding. 

So, stock up on some supplies and learn to love—or at least live with—the fluff!

Visit Pet Chemist Online where you’ll find a range of cat grooming products.

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Mad Paws Dinner Bowl x Pet Sitter Cashback https://www.madpaws.com.au/blog/mad-paws-dinner-bowl-x-pet-sitter-cashback/ https://www.madpaws.com.au/blog/mad-paws-dinner-bowl-x-pet-sitter-cashback/#respond Sun, 10 Jan 2021 03:32:20 +0000 https://www.madpaws.com.au/?p=14607 What is Mad Paws Dinner Bowl? Mad Paws Dinner Bowl a line of dog meals offered by Mad Paws. As…

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What is Mad Paws Dinner Bowl?

Mad Paws Dinner Bowl a line of dog meals offered by Mad Paws. As a subscription service, Dinner Bowl delivers fresh, tailor-made dog meals to Australia’s furry friends on an ongoing basis. To find out more, visit www.madpawsdinnerbowl.com.au 

How can Mad Paws Pet Sitters benefit?

To make money from Dinner Bowl, Sitters can apply for a unique discount code. When a Dog Owner uses this discount code at the Mad Paws Dinner Bowl online store, two things happen: 

  • The Dog Owner receives 50% off their first Mad Paws Dinner Bowl order. 
  • The Pet Sitter received $50 paid into their Mad Paws Pet Sitting account  

In other words, you can get paid to give Dog Owners discounts on their pet food! 

Who can use this discount code?

Anyone can use a Pet Sitter’s discount code to buy Mad Paws Dinner Bowl. We can see whenever someone has used your code, so you won’t need to contact us – we’ll simply pay the $50 into your account automatically.

How can Sitters share their discount codes?

However, they’d like! From what we’ve seen in our early testing, Sitters have had success in offering the code to clients at the end of a booking. By doing so, they’ve made an extra $50 on top of your Pet Sitting fee. 

 

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