Category: For Cats

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June has officially gone to the felines with so many holidays honoring their presence! Warning: With all the kitty love this month, you may end up adopting a cat!


June Cat Holidays

We start with the month-long American Humane Association’s “Adopt-a-Cat Month” and the ASPCA’s “Adopt-a-Shelter-Cat Month!” But wait, there’s more!

Starting to feel the love and want to add a new feline friend to your home? Keep reading to learn what you need to know first before adopting a cat!

The 7 Basics When Adopting a Cat

Life Expectancy

Cats typically live between 12 and 18 years but can live to 20 or more years! Are you ready for that long-term commitment and expenditures?

Kitty Scratching

Adopting a Cat means lots of scratching

It is completely normal and healthy for cats to scratch so give your feline plenty of places to safely scratch!

Scratching is a way for a cat to “mark” his territory with visual and scent signs.

Scratching also helps shed claw sheaths and keep their nails in good shape.

Litterbox Pickiness

  • Cats can be picky when it comes to their litterbox and may stop using their litterbox because:
    • There are too many cats for one litterbox.
    • The litter is not cleaned often enough.
    • There is too much litter. Most cats will not use litter that’s more than 2 inches deep.
    • The type and scent of litter
    • Switching litters too often. Find a litter your cat likes and stick with it.
    • The litterbox is hard to reach or close to frightening noises or heat.
    • Behavioral issues including:
      • Stress, boredom, anxiety and aggression
      • A new home/furniture
      • New family/pets in the home
      • An intact male/female cat in the home marking their territory in or outside your home

Feline Nutrition

Adopting a Cat means providing the best feline nutrition

Grooming Your Cat

Regular grooming is essential to your cat’s overall health, well-being and comfort. It’s also a great way to strengthen your bond with your feline. Learn more at How to Groom a Cat with step-by-step instructions and pictures. (Also be sure to check out our cat grooming tools!)

Create a cat-friendly and safe environment by removing all potentially toxic plants from your home!

Did you know that some feline breeds need more attention?

These breeds include:
1. Siamese, and
2. Long-haired cats including the Persian, Himalayan, Maine Coon and more.

Despite their independent nature, cats still need quality interaction and enrichment activities for their best mental and physical health. Cats who are bored or stressed can become destructive. Anxious cats may also spray urine in and around the house. Use a pet sitter to give your cat some extra attention and activity. 

Cats typically take more time to settle into their new home. Give them plenty of space and patience. Hint: try bonding with your new cat by smiling like a cat!

Adopting a cat (or any other pet) is a wonderful feeling and new adventure! By thinking it through and learning more about the feline breed you want to adopt will help ensure a successful transition for both you and the new kitty!


The Grooming Tool Your New Kitty Will Love!

Grooming your cat is an easy way to enhance the bond and trust between you and your feline friend.

The 5-inch EasyGroomer painlessly and easily removes your cat’s dead hair, dust and coat dander while supporting their overall well-being, health and comfort.

For individual or bulk orders, call 860-573-0604 or click here to send us an email.

Image Credits

Pikabum from Pixabay 

Daga_Roszkowska from Pixabay

Luisella Planeta Leoni from Pixabay

Spencer Wing from Pixabay

Andreas Lischka from Pixabay

Courtesy of EquiGroomer.com

Posted on by equigroomerllc
Felines have been described with wonderful attributes like smart, intuitive and graceful; but they are also known to be stand-offish, asocial and (dare we say?) even rude when the mood strikes!
Chalk it all up to “cat-titude!”

Even the most ardent cat lover can, at times, be met with a seemingly indifferent feline. Or is it more of a misunderstanding on our part of a cat’s subtle, sophisticated body language? Well, thankfully, scientists have uncovered a secret to get your cat to like you … smile at your cat!

Keep reading to learn more!

The Cat “Smile”

With our canine friends, it is easy to decode their moods, it is written all over them! But cats are a bit more subtle by signaling their moods through twitching tails, ruffled fur, the position of their ears and whiskers and even through the narrowing of their eyes.

Cat Smiling with Narrowed EyesThis specific eye language or movement has been called a “cat smile” by experts and researchers who believe it can help strengthen your bond with your favorite feline.

While eye narrowing by felines is nothing new (Jackson Galaxy has often used it on his “My Cat from Hell” series), recent studies now offer tangible evidence it might be a form of “positive emotional communication between cats and humans.”

A study done at the University of Sussex in England found that “cats are more likely to slow blink at their owners after their owners slow blinked at them, compared to no interactions between the two.”

“This study is the first to experimentally investigate the role of slow blinking in cat-human communication. And it is something you can try yourself with your own cat at home, or with cats you meet in the street. It’s a great way of enhancing the bond you have with cats.” 

(Professor Karen McComb, University of Sussex Study Supervisor)


How to Smile at Your Cat

First, put yourself in front of your cat at a comfortable distance. Narrow (orMan and Cat Nose to Nose squint) your eyes like you would if you had a happy and relaxed smile on your face. Then slowly blink at your cat by closing your eyes for a couple of seconds and then opening. If your cat responds in kind, you are “talking” with your cat!

This “slow blink” appears to make humans more attractive to the cat motivating them to respond in kind and to also approach the human. Research has found the role of slow blinking (or the cat smile) in cat-human communication also enhances your bond and trust with your feline.

A word of caution, do not try to force your cat to communicate back or engage in intense staring at your cat which can be interpreted as threatening in social interaction! Be patient and hopefully your cat will willingly engage in smiling communication!

WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT YOUR CAT?

“Why Do We Think Cats are Unfriendly?”

 “How to Earn Your Cat’s Trust and Affection”

 “Why are Cats So Incredibly Rude?”

Cat Giftbag with Grooming Tools and Toys

 

THE Giftbag Your Cat Will Purr Over!

Grooming your cat is another easy way to enhance the bond and trust between you and your feline friend.

The EquiGroomer’s Gift Bag for Cats includes a 5” grooming tool for painlessly and easily removing dead hair, dust and coat dander. Also included is a laser pointer and cat toy for hours of feline fun! The purr-fect gift to show your cat some extra love!

For individual or bulk orders, call 860-573-0604 or click here to send us an email.


Image Credits

Manfred Richter from Pixabay

Jennifer Moore from Pixabay

Yuliya Kota from Pexels

Posted on by equigroomerllc

Pets can often feel “feverish” to a worried owner simply because an animal’s normal temperature range is above our own (typically between 97.5 to 99.6 degrees F). 

Our pets and animals can become too hot (or even too cold) for a variety of reasons. If you are concerned your pet has a fever or is overly chilled, taking their temperature can help put your mind at ease or encourage you to contact your regular veterinarian. But how do you know if your pet’s temperature is normal? 

High vs Low Temperatures: Which is Worse

While a pet with a high temperature is typically more worrisome to most owners, a low temperature may also be a cause for alarm. If you are unsure about your pet’s unusual temperature, consult your veterinarian to avoid any long-term issues or complications for your pet.

The medical terms below are used to indicate temperatures outside the normal range:

Hyperthermia (a high temperature outside the normal range) may indicate:

  • Fever due to infection or inflammation as part of the immune system’s defense.
  • Overexertion.
  • Stress; or
  • Overheating from exposure to excess heat and/or humidity (absorbing more heat than the body can naturally dissipate or release).

Hypothermia (a low temperature outside the normal range) may indicate:

  • Extended exposure to cold and/or wet.
  • Shock.
  • Pending labor in females.
  • The body is losing heat faster than it is absorbing.

Healthy Pets: Normal Temperature Ranges

Pet temperatures fall into ranges

Dogs: 101 – 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit (or 37.9 – 39.9 degrees Celsius)

Cats: 100 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit (or 39.1 – 39.2 degrees Celsius)

Rabbits: 101.5-104.2 degrees Fahrenheit (or 38.6 – 40.1 degrees Celsius)

Horses: 99 – 101.3 degrees Fahrenheit (or 37.2 – 38.3 degrees Celsius)

Livestock: Click here to find the normal temperature range for other animals in the Merck Veterinary Manual.

Sustained temperatures outside the pet’s normal range can lead to issues like heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and even internal damage if not addressed properly and reduced to the normal range. Always know your pet’s normal resting temperature (temperature setpoint) to know if they are having issues.

Taking Your Pet/Animal’s Temperature

Old-fashioned mercury thermometers are no longer considered safe for taking an animal’s temperature as they may snap especially with excited or nervous animals exposing the pet – and you – to potential mercury.

Digital thermometers show if your pet's temperature is normalDigital thermometers are considered safer and more commonly used today. Temperatures are typically taken via the ear or rectally – which is considered more accurate – in cats, dogs, horses and livestock (with a small amount of lubricant on the end of the thermometer). Be warned, depending on your pet or animal, taking their temperature may be a two-person job!

 

Abnormal Temperatures: When to be Concerned

Our pet’s temperatures can fluctuate during the day and it is not always a reason to be concerned. The temperature and humidity outside and your pet’s activity can all affect their temperature. Getting them to rest and drink should help bring their temperature back within the normal range.

Your vet can tell you if your pet's temperature is normal

 

The Bottom Line

Like humans, animals may run slightly elevated, short-term temperatures as their body fights off minor infections or fevers. This is normal.

Medications should only be used when necessary to avoid diminishing the effectiveness of your pet’s immune system. If a mild fever or slightly elevated (and unusual) temperature persists for more than a few days, contact your veterinarian for an examination and definitive diagnosis.

If your horse is overheated, spraying him with cool, fresh water can help safely reduce his temperature. Use our Water Wisk to remove all sweat and water too!

Order individual EquiGroomer tools or professional kits for your pet shop, tack shop or barn, by calling 860-573-0604,  sending us an email or visiting our website today!

  

Additional Reading:

Pets.WebMd.com: Fevers in Cats

Equus Magazine: What to do When Your Horse Has a Fever

AKC: Fever in Dogs: Causes, Signs and Treatments

Rabbit Care Tips: Why is My Rabbit Shaking and Laying Down?

PetComments.com: Best Pet Thermometers

Image Credits (In Order of Appearance):

Beverly Lussier from Pixabay 

Susanne Jutzeler, suju-foto from Pixabay

Gundula Vogel from Pixabay 

Skeeze from Pixabay

Product Image Courtesy of EquiGroomer

Posted on by equigroomerllc

As the summer months heat up, people become more conscious about staying cool and fully hydrated. But did you know your pet is at an even greater risk of dehydration? Learn how to keep pets well-hydrated during the summer months below!

Courtesy: PetSafe.netYes, our pets are at an even greater risk for dehydration because their bodies contain more water (80%) than the human body which contains only 60% of water so it’s critical to know how to keep your pets well-hydrated during the summer months.

So, in honor of National Pet Hydration Awareness Month during July, let’s take a closer look below at the proper hydration our pets need in these hotter months.

How Much Water Do Pets Need?

Most pets need 1 ounce of water per 1 pound of bodyweight. (Learn about how much water horses need below.) Is your pet getting that much water each day? All pets need plenty of fresh, cool water, especially during the hotter months.

Closely monitor their water intake to ensure they are getting enough water to support their overall health.

If your pet likes to drink out of the faucet (including some cats), invest in a pet fountain that offers fresh running water to entice them to drink more.

This handy graphic by PetSafe.net, the founders behind National Pet Hydration Awareness Month, offers a great visual in terms of 8 oz. glasses of water. (Exercise or excessive heat/humidity increases how much water your pet needs.)

Unfortunately, most pets do not get enough hydration during extreme and humid temperatures. Even if your pet is indoors in the air conditioning, their bodies still feel the effects of the increased heat and humidity especially if they spend any time outdoors.

Signs of Dehydration

Dehydration can sneak up on your pet and owners need to be aware of the symptoms indicating potential dehydration.

  1. Sunken, dry eyes
  2. Dry nose and/or mouth
  3. Lethargy and depression
  4. Gums that are dry, sticky or pale
  5. Loss of appetite or refusal to eat

Use this Skin Test to See If Your Pet is Dehydrated

Gently pull up a loose fold of skin from the back of your pet’s neck or in between their shoulder blades.

Release.

If the skin quickly returns to normal, your pet is probably ok. If the skin hesitates or slowly returns to normal, your pet could be showing signs of dehydration. Call or see your veterinarian immediately to rule out dehydration and other serious health consequences.

Dehydration: Other Causes

Dogs or cats with the health conditions below can become dehydrated quicker and easier and need to be monitored closely.

  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Fever
  • Trauma
  • Heatstroke
  • Kidney disease
  • Diabetes (or other metabolic disorder)
  • Cancer
  • Pets who are pregnant/nursing

Dehydration: Equine

Horses are just as susceptible to dehydration. Just a 3-4% loss of body water can cause mild dehydration in a horse.

Horses who exercise and sweat in hot, humid temperatures will need more water especially to avoid heat exhaustion/heat stroke and worse.

According to the EquiMed website, adult horses around 1,000 pounds require a minimum of 10-12 gallons of water each day. Just like with other pets, water is critical for an equine’s proper bodily functions.

The Skin Test (above) can also be used near the base of the horse’s neck to help determine dehydration.

Always work with your veterinarian to make sure that you keep pets well-hydrated during the summer months to avoid any potential risks to their health.

Along with plenty of fresh

water each day, help your

animals stay as cool as possible

with regular grooming to remove

excess, dead hair.

Our EquiGroomer tools make grooming your horse easier, stress-free AND pain-free!

Order individual EquiGroomer tools or professional kits for your pet shop, tack shop or barn, by calling 860-573-0604,  sending us an email or visiting our website today!

  

Additional Reading:

PetSafe: Pet Hydration Awareness Month, Why Now

PetSafe: Infographic: Does Your Pet Have a Drinking Problem?

PetMD: The Importance of Water for Dog Nutrition

PetMD: Dehydration in Cats

EquiMed: Dehydration

Horse Racing Sense: Is My Horse Dehydrated? 10 Clear Signs of Equine Dehydration

 

Image Credits (In Order of Appearance):

Myriam Zilles from Pixabay 

Courtesy: PetSafe.net

Courtesy: PetSafe.net

Free-Photos from Pixabay 

FreeStocks.org from Pexels

Rebecca Schönbrodt-Rühl  from Pixabay 

Product Image Courtesy of EquiGroomer

Posted on by equigroomerllc

It’s a stressful time right now for the whole new world!

But for our pets, it’s just another day as they are blissfully ignorant of the current world events. Perhaps it’s time to learn mindfulness from your pets!

What is Mindfulness?

Unfortunately, most of us have been taught or conditioned to react or respond to what we perceive as reality around us. When we do this, we Learn Mindfulness to Deal with Life's Challengesoften find ourselves worrying about the past or fearful about the future. Neither are natural states of being. Thankfully our pets always live in the moment, so let’s learn mindfulness from our pets!

Mindfulness is all about “being in the moment” and creating our own state of being. When we live in the moment (instead of the past or the future), we enjoy:

  • Enhanced mental clarity.
  • Improved concentration; and
  • The ability to better relate to others.

Learn the “7 Practical Tips to Achieve a Positive Mindset” from the Success Magazine.

Keep reading to learn how to master mindfulness from the masters themselves.


Learn Mindfulness From Your Pets, the Masters!

Our Animals Live with Mindfulness NaturallyThe one thing most of us have at this moment is time. Spending quiet and quality time with our animals can help us fine-tune our skills in mindfulness. Our pets have this amazing ability to relax and soothe us by just being close! Whether you have a dog, cat, rabbit, horse, or some other animal you love, pets naturally transfer us from the stressful chaos of our lives into being in the moment with petting, grooming, or even just cuddling with them.

I love hanging out with Clifford my horse even when he’s just grazing in the pasture. He reminds me to focus on and appreciate Mother Nature. He leads by example by living in the moment, enjoying the fresh air and the warmth of the sunshine. He doesn’t have a care in the world; especially about what tomorrow may (or may not) bring! (Click on the image to enjoy Clifford’s video!)

Want to practice mindfulness with your dog? Click here to learn more from Harvard Medical School.

Our Pets Teach Us Mindfulness and EmpathyWhat would our pets tell us if they could talk? Perhaps that slowing down and being present in this very moment will help us find the mindfulness and peace our hearts and souls crave.

“With the awareness and empathy you build while taking care of your pet’s needs, you enhance your ability to be more mindful in everyday interaction with friends and strangers alike.” All About Cats, an Online Community for Cat Lovers

Imagine how that would help your life and interactions with your co-workers, friends and even family.

Use Your Pets to Learn and Practice Mindful Meditation by Focusing on Them

Meditate with Your Pet

Use your pet to learn and practice mindful meditation by focusing on the little things about them. Softly touch them and really notice how soft their fur, feathers or coat is beneath your fingertips. Watch and breathe along with them. Lose yourself by looking in your pet’s eyes. If you’re cuddling, feel their heartbeat along with your own.

This is what means to be in the moment, just being together and enjoying a sense of calm awareness. Practice this same kind of attention and focus in other parts of your life and know you can call peace, relaxation and mindfulness to you anytime no matter what is going on in the world.

Learn how to meditate with your pet to relieve stress (yours and theirs!) with this article from the Animal Wellness Magazine!

Grooming Your Pet Helps You (and them) Release Stress and Be in the MomentStay mindful, healthy and positive!

The simple act of grooming your pet can help you (and them) release pent-up stress and enjoy being in the moment with them.

The EquiGroomer tools make grooming easy and pain-free brushing with NO pulling or damage to your pet’s topcoat or skin. Happy, relaxed pets and owners.

For individual or bulk orders, call 860-573-0604 or click here to send us an email.

 

Additional Reading:

How Pets Can Sharpen Your Mindfulness Skills

Meditation for You and Your Pets

Mindfulness and Your Dog

How Pets Can Help You Meditate and Be More Mindful

Image Credits:

Image by Myriam Zilles from Pixabay 

Image by yogakalyanii from Pixabay 

Video: Courtesy of EquiGroomer on Instagram

Image by Angeles Balaguer from Pixabay 

Image by La Miko from Pexels

Image Courtesy of EquiGroomer

Posted on by equigroomerllc

According to CNN, people are spending more time in the kitchen during the coronavirus pandemic for old-fashioned, homemade comfort! Be sure to include your pet with these healthy, DIY Pet Treats below!

Whether your pet is a dog, cat or horse, keep reading to find the perfect DIY Pet Treat recipe below with human-grade and healthy ingredients for the fraction of the cost of commercial treats! We promise you will be rewarded with purrs, licks and nudges!

Basic Ingredients Make Great Pet Treats

Homemade Treats for HorsesHorses Love Homemade Treats!

Carrots, apples and oats, oh my! What could be better for your horse than all his favorite foods in one treat?! Add some beneficial flax seed (high in Omega-3 fatty acids) for an irresistible treat that will also improve their coat!

Homemade Flax Horse Treats

1 cup ground flax seed

1 cup shredded carrots

1 cup shredded apple

2 cups quick oats

1-1/2 cups molasses

¾ cup water

½ cup brown sugar

Preheat oven at 350 degrees F.

Mix all ingredients together. More (or less) water may be needed depending on the consistency, it should be sticky. If it is too dry, add more water, a little at a time. If it is too runny, add some more flaxseed and rolled oats until the mixture sticks together.

Grease 2 cookie sheets. Using a spoon, make balls, about 2” wide and place on the greased cookie sheet. You can put them close together (but not touching) because they will not increase in size.

Bake the cookies at 350 degrees F for about 20 minutes.

Allow them to cool before removing from the cookie sheets and place them on a cooling rack or plate to thoroughly cool before feeding.


Find more horse treat recipes on these links:

Need some more inspiration for your human family?

Check out what others are creating on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter with #CoronavirusCooking!

 

Your Cat will Purr for Homemade Treats!Homemade Treats for Cats

Sardines are incredibly healthy for cats (and dogs). They are high in protein, rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and a variety of beneficial minerals including calcium, copper, iron and more. Preferably use sardines packed in water with no salt and share with Fido too!

Meow Yummy Sardine Treats (no bake!)

2 flat cans of sardines (do not drain)

2/3 cup cooked rice

1 tablespoon pureed liver

¼ cup chopped parsley

Combine all ingredients and mix well.

Shape into balls of desired size or simply spoon into a dish to serve. May be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen.


Find more cat treat recipes on these links:

 

Homemade Treats for DogsDIY Treats for Your Dog

Do you love gummy bears or other gummy candies? Time to share with your dog with this quick recipe with just TWO ingredients!

Chicken Gummy Paws Dog Treat Recipe (no bake!)

1 cup chicken or beef stock (low sodium)

2 tablespoons or packets of unflavored gelatin

In a small pot, bring the stock to a boil. Remove the pot from heat and let it cool for 3 minutes.

Whisk in gelatin until no clumps remain. Let the liquid cool off for a few minutes and pour into your favorite silicone molds or ice cube trays.

Refrigerate for several hours until set like Jello.

Want them faster? Put them in the freezer for about 90 minutes. NOTE: If you do freeze the treats, let them thaw before offering to your dog to avoid damaging his teeth.

Store treats in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or freeze for a couple of months.

Suggestions: Add mint, parsley, turmeric, pieces of fruit or veggies before refrigerating or freezing.


Find more dog treat recipes on these links:

Once your pet is full and happy with their homemade DIY Pet Treats, it’s the perfect time to groom them with our EquiGroomer grooming tools!

Stress-free, pain-free and injury-free grooming for you and your pet!

For Easy Grooming, Use the EquiGroomer Tools!

Order individual EquiGroomer tools or professional kits for your pet shop or tack shop, by calling 860-573-0604, sending us an email or visiting our website today!

Additional Reading:

The Horse: Horse-Approved Homemade Treat Recipes

Budget Equestrian: How to Make Homemade Horse Treats

Care.com: 10 Easy Homemade Treats Your Cat (and Instagram!) will Total Love

Must Love Cats: Homemade Cat Treats

Good Housekeeping: 12 Best Homemade Dog Treats to Make for Your Pup

 Puppy Leaks: 25 Simple Dog Treat Recipes

 

Image Credits (in order shown):

Steve Buissinne from Pixabay

Seksak Kerdkanno from Pixabay

Martina Seketa from Pixabay 

Felix Wolf from Pixabay

Alice Castro from Pexels

Product Image Courtesy of EquiGroomer

Posted on by equigroomerllc

Welcome to the second part of keeping your pet healthy, happy, and safe this winter!

This new post focuses on protecting the well-being of our cats and horses.

$5 Off our Gift Bags for the Holidays

The EquiGroomer Gift Bag is the perfect holiday gift for the pets and pet lovers in your life!

Winter’s cold and dry air can lead to dry and itchy skin for your pet. Regular grooming helps stimulate and distribute natural oils in their skin.

The EquiGroomer offers easy brushing with NO pulling, discomfort, or damage to your pet’s topcoat or skin.

For individual or bulk orders, call 860-573-0604 or click here to send us an email.

As we mentioned in our first blog (protecting dogs), our pets depend upon us to ensure their health, comfort, and safety. Despite their fur coats, our pets are still challenged by the cold and wet of winter.

It’s critical to educate ourselves about the winter challenges for our pets. Keep reading to learn the tips for protecting both cats and horses during the winter months.

The Rules of Winter: Cats

Never leave your feline out all winterIf you allow your feline to roam outside during the winter months, always watch the time (keep it short) and monitor their reactions to the cold. Do not let them out during the coldest times of the day or night.

Domestic felines (as opposed to feral felines) do not have coats to adequately protect them in the winter months.

  • Never leave your family cat outside all winter (even with a shelter).
  • Frostbite: Cats are highly susceptible to frostbite on their ears, nose, tail, and toes. Affected areas will be pale or bluish-white in color.Cats are very susceptible to frostbite! Immediately get your cat to your vet!
  • Hypothermia: If your feline begins to shiver outside, bring them inside immediately to prevent life-threatening hypothermia. Towel-dry them including paws and toes.

Other signs of hypothermia may include unusual anxiety; crying; or lethargy.

NOTE: If your cat does not stop shivering in a reasonable amount of time, call or take your cat to your veterinarian!

  • Paws & Toes: Check between the toes for frozen snow or ice, dirt, orUse olive oil or petroleum jelly on kitty paws rock salt (you don’t want your cat licking any de-icing agents or chemicals). Also, check the paws for cracks and cuts. Massage moisturizing petroleum jelly or olive oil into your feline’s paws and between the toes.

 AVOID cortisone cream, tea tree oil, or other essential oils on your cat’s paws without checking with your vet first!

  • Lean Protein: If your indoor cat spends regular time outside, feed them more lean protein.
  • Dry, Flaky, and Itchy Skin: Add a small amount of olive to the food (less is more to avoid an upset stomach). Using a home humidifier can also help.
  • Holiday Risks: During the holidays, remember holly and mistletoe are toxic to cats (and dogs).

The Rules of Winter: Horses

  • Shelter: During the winter, horses need access to a barn; or at aHorses need shelter and dry blankets during winter minimum, a three-sided structure to protect themselves.
  • Horse Blankets: Well-fitted blankets keep horses warm and dry.
    • Blanket horses in potential rain, ice, and/or freezing rain. But never put a blanket on a wet horse.
    • Body-clipped equines should be blanketed throughout the winter season.
    • Blankets should be used on very young/very old equines or those not yet acclimated to the cold.
    • Horses with a body condition score of three or less should always be blanketed.
  • Unfrozen Water: Ensure your horse’s access to unfrozen water. Horses need more water during the winter to prevent dehydrationHorses need more water during winter and colic.
    • Heated water buckets, water heaters, or de-icers will keep water from freezing. The University of Minnesota recommends warm water between 45° and 65° F. (Snow and ice are not adequate sources for water.)

Use the Henneke Body Condition Scoring for your Horse

  • Winter Feeding: By feeding your horse more (even unlimited) forage, they will create more heat and efficiently regulate their body temperature.
  • Special Care: If your horse requires special care during the summer months, that same care needs to be continued through the winter.
  • Equine Skin Care: Horses are prone to skin problems during the winter including ringworm, lice, and mites. To learn more, click here: The Horse, “Winter Skin Problems.”
  • Hoof Care: Keep up routine hoof care during the winter; including:
    • Trimming: Every 6 to 12 weeks.
    • Daily Picking: To remove packed ice or snow.

Hoof care is still critical during winter months

Additional Reading:

Five Ways to Protect Pets This Winter

Tips for Protecting Your Cat This Winter

Top 10 Winter Skin and Paw Care Tips

How to Care for a Cat’s Paws

Caring for Your Horse in the Winter

Tips to Protect Your Horse’s Skin in All Kinds of Weather

Winter Skin Problems

Under, Over, or Ideal (Henneke Body Condition Scoring Scale)

Image Credits (in the order shown):

Image by Lenka Novotná from Pixabay

Image by Lisa Johnson from Pixabay

Image by rihaij from Pixabay

Image by nile from Pixabay

Image by agnesliinnea from Pixabay

Image by filinecek from Pixabay

Image from Blog.smartpakequine.com

Image by rihaij from Pixabay

Product Images are Courtesy of EquiGroomer

Posted on by equigroomerllc

It’s certainly a difficult and unusual time with the coronavirus. Especially for those with pets who require regular grooming.  Even with groomers closed, you need to groom your pet regularly during coronavirus!

Despite the current state of the world, our pets need their overall well-beingConsistent Grooming is Essential During Coronavirus for You and Your Pets attended to on a regular, daily basis. In this unprecedented time, our pet’s health is equally as important as our own! Our pets rely upon us daily to protect them and ensure their best health and quality of life. Also, during all the uncertainty, we need our beloved pets even more for their infinite love, support and companionship while we all self-quarantine.

Since many groomers have been ordered to close as “non-essential” businesses, dogs, cats and even rabbits still need to be groomed on a regular, consistent basis for their overall comfort and health.

Consistent pet grooming involves 10 essential basics for ensuring physical and mental benefits. Click here to read/review our previous post.

No matter what is going on around us, regular brushing is an essential part of your pet’s overall hygiene, health, comfort and happiness. Our EquiGroomer grooming tools make the experience easier, comfortable and stress-free!

Regular Grooming Is Always Appropriate

Grooming Your Pet Also Benefits Your Stress With Coronavirus!By keeping up with your pet’s regular grooming, you can keep your pet’s coat in good shape, without painful matting, burrs and/or allergens. You can also address any potential health issues before they require a potentially stressful visit to your veterinarian during the shelter-in-place mandates.

By keeping up with your pet’s regular grooming, you can keep your pet’s coat in good shape, without painful matting, burrs and/or allergens. You can also address any potential health issues before they require a potentially stressful visit to your veterinarian during the shelter-in-place mandates.

Brushing Your Pet Benefits You Too!

With all the uncertainty and “unknowns,” many of us may be feeling additional stress along with the loss of control. Brushing your pet every day helps not only relax your pet, but it’s also priceless when it comes to naturally reducing your own stress. By grooming your pet regularly during coronavirus, you will strengthen the bond between you and your precious pet.

Can Your Pet Get or Transmit Coronavirus?

There’s been a lot of rumors and misinformation about the coronavirus andCOVID-19 is Not Related to any Pet Coronavirus! our domestic pets. So, we’d like to take a quick moment and address what you need to know.

  • While there IS a “coronavirus” for canines (called CCV or canine respiratory coronavirus) and felines (feline coronavirus), the current COVID-19 virus strain is not connected in any way.
  • The WHO, CDC, AVMA and AKC all agree there is no imminent threat from our pets for transmitting the Coronavirus. Please do not abandon your pet!
  • Even petting a dog’s fur is considered low risk according to the AVMA, because the virus survives best on smooth surfaces.
  • Your pet does not need a face mask for protection.
  • Groom your pet regularly during coronavirus to eliminate any chance of the virus being on your pet’s coat and to maintain the best possible hygiene in your home.

Coronavirus Update on Pets Video

For further information, watch the “COVID-19 Update on Pets” video with Rodney Habib, Dr. Karen Becker and Dr. Sarah Caddy of the University of Cambridge.

DIY: Pet-Safe & Natural Sanitizers

With the ongoing shortages of commercial sanitizers, make your own pet-safe products with the video below from Dr. Andrew Jones!

Use Pet-Safe and Natural Sanitizers During Coronavirus

 

Veterinarian Andrew Jones’ DIY Pet Safe Natural Soap, Hand Sanitizer & Disinfectant

 

 

As we all move through this uncertain time together, stay safe, healthy and positive!

Equigroomer Tools Makes Pet Grooming Easier!

The EquiGroomer tools offer easy and pain-free brushing with NO pulling or damage to your pet’s topcoat or skin.

For individual or bulk orders, call 860-573-0604 or click here to send us an email.

Additional Reading:

DIY Tips for Grooming a Dog at Home

Cat Grooming

Rabbit Grooming

Your Pets Unlikely to Get or Give Coronavirus

Can Pets Get Coronavirus (COVID-19) from Humans? Here’s What Vets Know

 

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Image by KaraSuva from Pixabay 

Image by Анна Дощечко from Pixabay 

Image by AmandaCullingford from Pixabay 

Photo by Steshka Willems from Pexels

Product Images are Courtesy of EquiGroomer

Posted on by equigroomerllc

With freezing temperatures and dry winter air, the air inside our homes becomes even drier and that means winter challenges for our pets.

The Grooming Tools YOU Can’t Live Without this Winter!

With our pets spending more time inside during the winter months, you may begin noticing more sinus problems from built-up dander, dead hair and pet allergens!

The EquiGroomer Grooming Tools along with bathing can really help cut down on accumulating dead hair, pet dander and allergens inside your closed-up house!

For individual or bulk orders, call 860-573-0604 or click here to send us an email.

If there’s one thing we can commiserate with our pets, it’s dry winter air! With seasonally low humidity and constant heating, even humans are challenged with dry, flaky skin, respiratory problems like bronchitis, dried out, achy sinuses and sudden nosebleeds.

Imagine how your pet feels!

Winter Issues for Our Pets

Dry winter air and even drier air inside cause real challenges to our pet’s overall health. Issues like:Cats Suffer from Dry Winter Skin

  • Dry skin;
  • Dandruff;
  • Itching; and
  • Static electricity.

To help address the challenges from dry winter air, use a humidifier to put moisture (humidity) back into your home.

Want to avoid buying an expensive humidifier? Try water-filled vases on windowsills exposed to sunlight, boil a tea kettle on the stovetop and place metal or ceramic bowls of water on heat radiators or registers.

Reduce static electricity by dusting with a non-static dryer sheet – wipe down furniture too.

Keep reading to learn other effective remedies to help keep your pets comfortable despite the dry winter air.

Dry Winter Air: Canines

Even with the extra protection of their fur coat, canines are still challenged by dry winter air and the effects on their skin can be exacerbated by regularly going in and outdoors.

 “Excessively dry skin on your dog will manifest itself in ways you might expect, such as dandruff-like flaking and brittle hair. But excessive scaling … could be a sign of a bacterial skin infection, which requires veterinary attention for treatment.”

(Dr. Nicole A. Heinrich, Veterinarian, McKeever Dermatology Clinics)

Remedies:

  1. Dog-friendly topical moisturizers (weekly or every other week; ask your vet)
  2. Increased brushing to stimulate and distribute the skin’s natural oils
  3. Vitamin E oil for dry noses
  4. Limited bathing with a dog shampoo/rinse with soothing moisturizers like oatmeal and aloe vera
  5. Increased Essential Fatty Acids (note: always speak with your vet first):Raw Eggs Can Help Your Dog's Dry Skin
    • For conditioned skin:
      • Zinc & Vitamin A
      • Raw eggs
      • Sardines & Herrings
    • For mild, seasonal allergies like dust mites, human dander, cotton, wool and mold. Antihistamines can be sparingly used (like Benadryl), but the natural alternative, Quercetin or Quercetin Bromelain, is much safer for dogs. Quercetin is part of a group of natural, water-soluble plant pigments called flavonoids. (Long-term use of OTC products like Benadryl (specifically the ingredient diphenhydramine) may cause dementia in dogs and humans.)
Quercetin is Nature's Form of Benadryl
Courtesy: Rodney Habib, Pet Nutrition Blogger

Dry Winter Air: Felines

Good Nutrition and Hydration Help Cat's Dry SkinJust like their canine friends, our felines are just as susceptible to winter dryness. But excessive itchiness and scratching can lead to unwanted infections and wounds for your cat. Below are some remedies to keep your cat’s skin well-conditioned.

“Good nutrition is essential for your cat’s healthy skin and coat … along with good hydration for the optimal function of every feline organ including her skin.” (iheartcats.com)

Remedies:

  1. Increased brushing to stimulate and distribute the skin’s natural oils. Avoid bathing your cat in winter.
  2. Increased Omega-3 Fatty Acids (note: always speak with your vet first).
  3. Vitamin E.
  4. Feed a high-quality cat food with a high content of water.
  5. Add olive, fish, krill and mussel and coconut oils to food (coconut oil can also be massaged into the fur). Do not use grapeseed or flaxseed oil, cats cannot properly process these oils.
  6. Cats can also suffer from seasonal allergies. Like dogs, cats can be given an OTC antihistamine. But the natural alternative, Quercetin or Quercetin Bromelain, is much safer.

With some proactive care and remedies along with your vet’s advice, you and your pets can comfortably enjoy the winter season!

 

Additional Reading:

6 Tips for Treating Your Dog’s Dry Winter Skin

6 Tips for Your Cat’s Dry Winter Skin

6 Tips for Keeping Your Dog’s Skin and Coat Healthy during the Winter Months

Nature’s Benadryl: Quercetin

Cats with Dry Skin – Best Natural Remedies for Dry Skin in Cats

Image Credits:

Image by JacLou DL from Pixabay 

Photo by Buenosia Carol from Pexels

Image by Nicholas Demetriades from Pixabay 

Image by Rodney Habib, Pet Nutrition Blogger

Photo by Tatiana Azatskaya from Pexels

Product Image: Courtesy of EquiGroomer

Posted on by equigroomerllc

February is the month of love and National Cat Health Month! It’s the purr-fect time to show your feline some extra love!

Below are the top 4 demands on your cat’s wish list for a happy and healthy life!

Try a new litter box for National Cat Health MonthChange My Litter!

Do you hate cleaning your cat’s dirty litter? You’re not alone!

Maybe it’s time to shop for a new litter box both you and your cat will love! From automatic, self-cleaning boxes to fashionable and hidden boxes, The Strategist by the New York magazine, has got you (and your cat) covered!

Click here to check out the top 9 litter boxes of 2019 according to veterinarians and rescuers.

Spoil Me with the Best Healthy Treats!

All pets enjoy yummy treats including your resident cat! The best (andNational Cat Health Month means high quality protein treats healthy) kitty treats contain:

  • High-quality animal protein instead of by-products or meat meal
  • No added fillers:
    • Corn, wheat, soy, sugar or sweeteners or sodium
  • No added artificial flavors, preservatives or dyes:
    • BHA, BHT and ethoxyquin; glycerin (vegetable glycerin is safe)

Look for natural preservatives like Vitamin E (tocopherol) and Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)

From freeze-dried treats to kibble toppers, fish flakes to rich, nutritious bone broth, your cat will meow with pleasure with these vetted treats!

Click here to check out the best cat treats of 2019 as recommended by veterinarians and discriminating kitties.

Want to show your love with a homemade and organic cat treat? Make your cat purr with delight with Homemade Organic Spinach and Chicken Cat Treats containing organic catnip by Sarah Lipoff at POPSUGAR Pets! 

(Note: Swap out the chicken for organic salmon or tuna instead.)

Feed a high quality diet for your cat's best healthFeed Me a High-Quality Diet!

Your cat’s diet is the foundation of his overall and optimal well-being. Following the guidelines below with help your feline enjoy a long, healthy and comfortable life.

  • Primarily high-quality animal meat/organ protein
  • Water-rich food instead of dry kibble
  • Moderate level of fat
  • Low carbohydrates (less than 10% carbohydrate calories)

  

Groom, Rub and Love Me!

While most cats seem to do a good job of grooming themselves, it’s still very important to regularly groom your cat.

  1. Regular brushing will help keep your cat’s fur well-conditioned with natural oils, avoid painful tangles and mats as well as keep the skin clean and irritant-free. (Look for bald patches, signs of fleas, ticks or other parasites and unusual bumps, wounds, infections or tenderness.)
  2. Daily brushing helps cut down on hairballs from excess fur.
  3. Regular grooming can help detect any potential issues early.

Both grooming and massaging will help your cat relax and naturally strengthens the bond between you.  Massaging should start with the areas your cat already enjoys being touched with slow, soft and gentle strokes down their back, slow circular motions on the shoulders, rubbing behind the ears and under the chin. While some cats hate having their paws touched, others love having the center pad of each paw gently rubbed. (It’s also a great time to moisturize dry, itchy or cracked pads too!)

Regularly groom and massage your feline
 

The Perfect National Cat Health Month gift!The Giftbag Your Feline Can’t Live Without!

Effectively grooming your cat needs the right tools to gently brush the hair and remove any dead undercoat without discomfort.

The EquiGroomer’s Gift Bag for Cats includes a 5” grooming tool for painlessly and easily removing dead hair, dust and coat dander. Also included is a laser pointer and cat toy for hours of feline fun! The purr-fect gift to show your cat some extra love!

 

For individual or bulk orders, call 860-573-0604 or click here to send us an email.

 

Additional Reading:

National Cat Health Month

February is National Cat Health Month

Feeding Your Cat: Know the Basics of Feline Nutrition

Cat Food – Nutritional Composition

Cat Grooming

How to Give Your Cat the Best Massage Ever

Image Credits:

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