Pet Grooming Orange County

Hungry Hungry Kittens

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 While cats are fairly easy pets to care for, they may be more confusing at a younger stage in life. Kittens can be difficult to understand, and you may feel unprepared to feed your new furry friend. The right diet can ensure a healthy transition into adulthood. Thankfully, there are several ways to identify your specific kitten’s best possible diet.

Your Feeding Pattern

If you have owned a cat before, you may be used to the typical routine of one meal in the morning and one meal in the evening. This pattern is satisfying for adult cats, but kittens have different needs. Instead, kittens prefer to snack; they may want four smaller meals a day rather than two.

You may be inclined to give your kitten primarily dry food, but consider adding canned (wet) food to your schedule. Canned food is closer to a cat’s natural diet, and thus is important to your kitten’s healthy growth. If you are giving your kitten dry food, you should make two of their daily meals canned.

Ingredients Matter

Kittens grow a lot in a very short amount of time. Because of this, they have different nutritional needs than adult cats. Like adult cats, kitten diets should have a high fat content. However, to facilitate healthy growth, your kitten should get about 30% of their energy from proteins. Look for protein-based cat foods where meat is the first ingredient. Foods claiming “complete and balanced nutrition” mean that they have all the necessary vitamins and nutrients. This means that your kitten can survive on this food alone without supplementation. Until your cat’s first birthday, you will want foods specifically formulated for kittens.

A Little Something-Something

Many pet parents like to give their kittens extra treats, and kittens love to snack. It is generally okay to give your kitten cat treats, as long as they do not exceed 10% of their daily calorie intake. This means only a few treats per day.

Sometimes, cats enjoy table scraps, but take caution with these. Your favorite cartoon cats may love a saucer of milk, but your kitten may disagree. Milk causes diarrhea in older kittens, who have since weaning lost the enzyme to break down milk. Raw meats, eggs, or fish can contain harmful bacteria causing potentially fatal conditions. Cooked, unseasoned meats or eggs are the best thing to give your kitten under the table.

Your new best friend may be waiting at Claws N Paws Day Spa. We currently have two kittens up for adoption. Previously, these boys lived in a large foster home and have become closely acquainted with small and older children, other cats, dogs, and rabbits. Because they have grown up together, these brothers would love to find a home together. For more information, any inquiries, or to schedule a meeting, call us today at 714-962-1005.

You Can’t Top This!

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Like some humans, many pets are picky. Most pet owners have seen their pet turn down perfectly fine food. Thankfully, there are ways to encourage healthy feeding. Pet owners are turning to pet food toppers, which sit at the top of your pet’s regular meal. These appetizing treats will ensure your pet gets their nutrition without a fight!

What Are Pet Food Toppers?

Pet food toppers can come in multiple forms. There are wet pet food toppers, typically gravies, sauces, or broths. There are also dry pet food toppers, which are usually either powdered or freeze-dried. You can find them in the pet food aisle, and they typically come in small containers or packs. Pet food toppers are designed to be aromatic and enticing for even the pickiest pets. Different companies produce toppers differently. While some focus on meat and other pungent products to get pets to eat, others supply nutrition to supplement a balanced diet.

Most pet food toppers are only meant as intermittent treats, but others can be served as meals. If the packaging claims it meets AAFCO standards, it can be used as part of a balanced diet. Otherwise, it will encourage intermittent or supplemental feeding only. Supplemental pet food toppers should not comprise more than 10% of your pet’s diet.

What Are the Benefits?

Pet food toppers are typically used to encourage picky eaters to enjoy their regular diets. Pets can become easily bored eating the same meals every day. Thankfully, pet food toppers give us the chance to step up that bowl of kibble or canned food. They are also easier to store, meaning that you can experiment with different types or stock up on multiple different flavors at once.

Furthermore, the type of pet food topper you buy can determine its benefits. Some toppers contain extra supplements to bulk up your pet’s regular diet. Many contain probiotics, supplemental proteins, omega-3 fatty acids, and more. Your vet may be able to help you pick the very best supplement for your specific pet. Wet pet food toppers can also provide hydration to pets that refuse to drink water. When you tailor pet food toppers to your specific pet, the possibilities are endless!

Claws N Paws Day Spa in Fountain Valley, California always has your pet’s health and happiness in mind. Our dedicated team of groomers can provide professional, personalized care to your cat or dog. Claws N Paws is currently open with social distancing and mask-wearing procedures in place. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call us today at 714-962-1005.

All About Pet Insurance

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With healthcare costs rising, many of us feel safer with a good insurance plan. But what about our pets? Pet insurance is out there, but it can be difficult to know how or when to get it. Many pet owners do not purchase pet insurance simply because they know very little about it. Fortunately, information is out there for those who look.

What is Pet Insurance?

Pet insurance plans work similarly to human health insurance. Pet parents pay a monthly premium for coverage, which applies whenever your pet needs a trip to the vet. Most insurance plans are for cats and dogs, but there are some which cater to exotic animals.

What Does Pet Insurance Cover?

Unlike human health insurance, there are different types of health insurance based on coverage and your specific pet. Wellness plans cover routine care, checkups, and vaccines. Alternatively, accident-illness plans cover treatment for both injury and illness. There are also accident-only and illness-only plans. Unfortunately, no pet insurance plan covers preexisting conditions. To fully understand your pet’s coverage, you will need to do research on your specific provider and plan.

What Does Pet Insurance Cost?

Because veterinary care is expensive, pet insurance can also be quite pricey. Basic plans may cost as low as $10 per month, but the most expensive plans may reach up to $100 per month. Payment is based on both coverage and your specific pet. Your furry friend’s age, weight, aand breed may factor into the cost. Costs may also vary by location; certain areas pose more environmental threats to animals.

How Does Pet Insurance Work?

Pet insurance applies broadly, which means any policy applies to any certified veterinary clinic in the United States. In most cases, you pay upfront. Make sure to keep your itemized receipt; you will send this to your pet insurance provider. Based on your coverage, they will reimburse you a portion of the cost. Know that this is the most common, but not the only, iteration of pet insurance.

At Claws N Paws Day Spa, your pet’s safety and needs are always our first priority. Located in Fountain Valley, California, we provide professional grooming services to both dogs and cats. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call us today at 714-962-1005.

Happy Halloween, Pet Families!

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When the air grows cold, and the fog rolls in, we know that another Halloween is upon us. While we may want to spend the weekend getting our spook on, our pets may have a different idea. This Halloween we also have the unique experience of being stuck inside with our pets. For this reason, this year has the potential to be your pet’s favorite Halloween ever!

Keep Them Inside!

Even if your pet can’t catch COVID, you will want to keep them inside on Halloween. Unfortunately, many people have harmful intentions on Halloween night. Animals, particularly black cats, may be injured or even killed by rebellious teenagers. Make sure all doors are closed, and always accompany your dog on potty breaks.

Create a Safe Haven

Halloween can be overwhelming for pets. Oftentimes, trick-or-treating children and neighborhood parties create a loud environment. Make sure your home feels safe, comfortable, and most importantly normal for your pet. Keep lights fairly low and do not disturb their typical lounge spots. Avoid scented candles, as these are known to create respiratory problems in both cats and dogs.

You can decorate as long as the decorations do not interfere with your pet’s daily functioning; in fact, you can even have some fun with it! Your cat will love batting your Halloween decorations. Make sure they’re not too heavy; long, hanging cloth decorations are perfect for playful kittens!

Dress Them Up!

Like children, our pets can dress up for the holiday. Costume and department stores sell costumes especially for cats and dogs. Your pet may not love to wear clothes, but an unobtrusive costume can be fun for both you and your pet. Try it on them in short intervals. Remember that kittens and puppies will be more receptive to wearing costumes sthan older pets!

Watch Your Snacks

While delicious, Halloween food is rarely pet-safe. Treats with chocolate, artificial sweeteners, and alcohol are toxic to cats and dogs. You can eat your treats, but keep them away from your pets. If you want to give your pet a seasonal meal, give them some canned (unsweetened) pumpkin. This is both tasty and healthy for your beloved furry friend!

Your pet can find professional grooming and bathing services at Claws N Paws Day Spa! Located in Fountain Valley, California, our grooming studio flaunts a dedicated staff and top-notch facilities. Right next door, your cat can find boarding services at our cats-only facility. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call us today at 714-962-1005.

All About Prednisone

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Many cats, particularly older cats, are on some form of medication. We as pet owners tend to trust our veterinarian’s judgment on prescriptions. However, there are many benefits to doing your own medical research on your pet. The more you know about your pet’s medications, the more likely you are to identify benefits and side effects. Prednisone, one of the most common corticosteroids prescribed to cats, has its fair share of both.

What is Prednisone?

Prednisone and prednisolone are corticosteroids used to treat conditions across many species. Unlike anabolic steroids which enhance performance, catabolic steroids break down stored resources. As an anti-inflammatory drug, prednisone is used for immune support. Typically, the drug is used as a short-term treatment, but it may be used for long-term therapy in more extreme cases such as cancer.

Prednisone and prednisolone are different drugs, but prednisone converts to prednisolone in the liver. If you know your pet has liver problems, express this concern to your vet. They will be more likely to prescribe the already converted prednisolone.

Side Effects

Because prednisone is a very powerful drug, it can also have powerful side effects to the adult feline. These are most common in cases where prednisone is prescribed as a long-term therapy. If your cat is on prednisone, keep an eye out for any changes in their behavior or mood. Check to make sure their coat and skin look normal, and always listen to your cat’s breathing while on prednisone.

Separately, and often more seriously, your cat may experience digestive changes while on prednisone. Increased appetite while on the drug may lead to obesity or even diabetes mellitus. Increased thirst can cause excessive urination, which in turn may become a urinary tract infection. Keep an eye out for any abnormal diarrhea or vomiting.

If your pet shows any severe side effects, contact your vet. They may have you stop administering the drug. Thankfully, prednisone typically stops working after 24 hours of non-use.

Listen to Your Vet

Like with any other medication, it is important to listen to your vet’s instructions. Always administer the prescribed dosage, and never double or overdose. Remember that pets may need to be weaned off of prednisone, especially after long-term usage. If you ever have questions, your vet is there to answer them.

Claws N Paws Day Spa provides professional grooming services to both cats and dogs. Our grooming facility in Fountain Valley, California is specially designed with your pet’s needs in mind. We are currently open with provisions in place to protect our clients and staff from COVID-19. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call us today at 714-962-1005.

Houseplants and Your Cat

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Adding plants to your home can be a magical experience. Not only are plants beautiful, but they purify your indoor air, making it much easier to breathe inside your home. Unfortunately, many cat owners are reluctant to add plants to their home. Our feline friends often make it more challenging to maintain other living things. Thankfully, there are many ways to safely introduce plants into a cat-friendly home!

Cat-Friendly Houseplants

Preferably, our cats would not chew on our plants, but oftentimes cats will chew on or eat anything they please. Many common houseplants are actually toxic to cats, so chewing can have major consequences. Fortunately, there are a number of houseplants that are non-toxic to cats.

Green, leafy plants are one of the most common additions to the modern home. While common plants like golden pothos and branching ivy are toxic, there are many safe plants that you and your pet can enjoy. Consider ferns such as the Boston or Kimberly Queen, or palms such as Bamboo, Parlor, or Ponytail. If you’re looking for low-maintenance yet beautiful green plants, you can find the non-toxic spider plants or rattlesnake plants at your local grocery store.

Many people like succulents, but pet owners must steer clear from jade and aloe. Instead, succulents such as Echeveria and Hawthoria Zebra are great non-toxic alternatives. Most cacti are also safe for cats, but be careful with these. Many cacti (and even succulents) have spines which can get stuck in your cat’s fur or skin. 

Flowers are always a beautiful addition! In a house with cats, opt for orchids, sunflowers, or roses. Many common flowers are toxic, including lilies, daisies, and begonias. Keep any bouquets with these flowers far out of your pets’ reach.

Other than looking pretty, many cat-friendly plants are actually functional! You can grow herbs like basil and thyme without worry. These plants will happily sit in the window alongside your cat. Furthermore, if you have a problem with flies or gnats, you can find some help in a Venus fly trap! These carnivorous plants are completely cat-safe. Contrary to popular belief, it is not safe to grow catnip in your home. While cats may enjoy little bits of dried catnip in their toys, they can easily overdose on fresh catnip.

Placement is Everything!

While your houseplants may be safe, cats are not meant to eat plants. For your carnivorous cat, eating too many greens can cause severe vomiting and/or diarrhea. The best way to avoid this is to put houseplants far out of reach. Invest in some hanging planters! If you choose to place plants on high shelves, make sure your cat cannot get up there. You want to be sure they cannot knock over the plant, scattering vase or pot shards across the floor. Make sure your cat has many other perch spots so they will not be tempted to snuggle up to your plants. And be forgiving! Your plants will survive some cat scratches, just like you.

At Claws N Paws, your pet’s needs are always our first priority. You can find professional grooming services for both cats and dogs at our day spa, or devoted boarding services at our cats-only facility right next door. For more information or to make an appointment, contact us today at 714-962-1005.