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Pam’s 10 Tips for Creating Mealtime Success When Feeding Your Cat

Posted on June 28, 2019December 17, 2020 by Above1 Support

By Pam Johnson-Bennett

Feeding your cat. Sounds pretty basic, right? Well, there are some things cat parents can do that may influence how successful the mealtime routine is for their cats. What you feed your cat, when you feed, how food is offered and even where the feeding station is located are all contributing factors to whether kitty gives it a paws up or a paws down. Here’s my list of 10 tips to help you create a mealtime environment that follows your cat’s natural instincts and desires.

Tip 1: Start with the Right Food

Feed a high-quality, natural food that’s appropriate for your cat’s life stage and health. It’s also important to feed the right amount of food based on stage of life, health and physical activity level. Wellness recently introduced new Complete Health Grain Free dry recipes for cats which may be a good option. If you’re unsure of how much food your cat should be eating, talk to your veterinarian.

Wellness Complete Health Grain Free Dry Cat Food

Wellness Complete Health Grain Free Indoor Dry Cat Food

Tip 2: Create a Comfortable Feeding Station

Create a feeding area that takes your cat’s natural instincts and preferences into consideration. Avoid the mistake of placing the feeding station close to the litter box. It may seem tempting to create a convenient “cat area” but a cat’s natural survival instinct is to eliminate away from the nest in order to avoid attracting predators. If you place the food bowl close to the litter box it may cause stress when it’s time to eat or it may even result in a litter box avoidance problem. If the feeding station and the litter box must be in the same room, make sure they are on opposites sides with maximum distance between them.

The most common location for the feeding station is in the kitchen. This works well for most cats but if the kitchen area is chaotic or noisy, your cat may prefer a more quiet, private area. Choose a feeding station location that allows your cat to eat undisturbed.

Tip 3: Use the Appropriate Food Bowl

A bowl is a bowl you say? Not true. Let’s start with the cat’s whiskers. Those long whiskers on your cat’s face are very sensitive and most cats find it uncomfortable for them to be squished or bent. If the food bowl is too deep or narrow, your cat will either have to withstand having the whiskers bent, or she may start dipping her paw in the bowl to scoop the food out. This is common in cats who experience whisker stress or discomfort. The food bowl should be shallow so your cat can easily get to her meal without any discomfort. This applies to the water bowl as well. While you want to make sure your cat always has an adequate supply of fresh water, if the bowl is too narrow, she may experience the same whisker stress.

Tip 4: Put a Distance Between Your Cat’s Food and Water

Many cats prefer their water to be separated from the food. In fact, it’s a good idea to have several water bowls scattered throughout the house to make it convenient for your cat and to encourage more water intake. When your cat is thirsty and looking for water between meals, she doesn’t necessarily want the scent of food nearby. It comes down to a cat’s natural survival instinct and even if your cat never sets one paw outdoors, she still retains those instincts.

Avoid using double feeding bowls that keep the water and food connected. Food can easily fall into the water, causing contamination and it also changes the taste of the water.

Tip 5: Feed The Appropriate Number of Meals

In the wild, a cat would typically eat several small meals per day. Cats have small stomachs and aren’t like the lions on the Savannah who gorge on food and then don’t eat for a while. Cats hunt small prey because they’re small animals. If unsure about the quantity to feed, talk to your veterinarian about how much your cat should eat in a day and then divide up that portion into several smalls meals. If you’re gone for long periods during the day, consider a timer-controlled feeder that will keep wet food fresh and open for feeding at the precise time you set. There are also timer-controlled feeders for use with dry food. If you do feed dry food, there are many food-dispensing toys you can use to give your cat the added bonus of having playtime during meals. Working for food is a natural concept for a cat so batting a puzzle feeder around to get a food reward can add more fun to mealtime.

Tip 6: Don’t Feed Cold Food

Feed wet food at room or body temperature. Cold food straight from the refrigerator may cause stomach upset and also isn’t as appealing. In order for the enticing aromas to do their magic, food should be at least at room temperature. Cats aren’t scavengers and in the wild, they determine whether a food is safe by the temperature and smell. A cat uses her nose to detect temperature and freshness.

Tip 7: Ease Your Cat Through Changes

Variety is good in a cat’s diet but changes must be done gradually to avoid causing tummy upsets or food rejection. Cats are creatures of habit and an abrupt change of food may cause her to turn her little nose up at what might be a high quality, highly nutritious meal, just because it’s unfamiliar. When changing to a new flavor or formula, add a little of the new food into the current brand and increase the amount over the course of a few days.

Wellness Complete Health Gravies Wet Food

If you’re transitioning to a new food and your cat doesn’t eat, it might be that you’ve added too much of the new food too soon. Back off on the amount for a few more days until your cat has adjusted to the change. Your cat is an individual so go at the pace that works best for her. She’ll let you know when you’re doing it correctly.

Tip 8: Decrease Stress in Multicat Feeding Environments

Although cats are social animals, they are not social eaters. If you have a multicat household, you can greatly decrease stress and increase a sense of security by making sure each cat has their own individual bowl of food. Cats don’t necessarily feel comfortable eating side-by-side as well, so separate the bowls to provide more comfort and peace. If any of your cats engage in resource guarding or there’s tension between them, set up feeding stations in different rooms so everyone feels safe and you eliminate any feelings of being threatened.

Tip 9: Don’t Leave Food out to Harden or Spoil

If feeding wet food, take up the dish after about 20-30 minutes so it isn’t left to dry and harden. It’s very unappealing for a cat to walk by the feeding station and get a whiff of old, rock-hard wet food. Take the bowl and wash it, wipe up any spills and keep the feeding station area clean so it’ll be most appealing for the next meal. Wash water bowls daily and refill with fresh, clean water as well.

Tip 10: Encourage Activity

Use playtime before meals to help encourage a healthy appetite. As a hunter, if a cat had to depend on her own skills to obtain a meal, she’d have to go through some physical activity as she stalks, chases and pounces to capture dinner. The concept of working for food is natural for cats, and luckily, you can incorporate that in a fun way by using playtime. Engage in an interactive play session with your cat before meals. Use a toy based on a fishing pole-type design so you can maneuver it like prey to encourage your cat to show off her skills. Customize the play session to fit your cat’s age, health and physical ability. Even a quick little game may ignite a spark of energy for a cat who may have been sleeping much of the day. Then, after a job well done, the might hunter gets her reward in the form of a healthy, delicious meal.

Wet Cat Food Textures Decoded: How a Cat Chooses Her Favorite

Posted on June 25, 2019December 17, 2020 by Above1 Support

Judging by the thousands of tantalizing food photographs posted to Instagram, visual presentation ranks high alongside taste when it comes to our food choices. But cats are just the opposite; they don’t care about the way their food looks. And further, flavor only plays a partial role in determining feline food preferences as cats only have 500 taste buds, compared to humans who have 9,000 taste buds!

Instead, cats rely heavily on their sense of smell and on “mouth-feel” – the ease with which they are able to pick up the food and the way it feels in their mouths. This is the key to finding your cat’s favorite wet food texture. Equally important is the happy sensation they both express and feel after the meal, by washing their face and paws and then settling down to sleep in a favorite snooze zone to digest.

How Cats Develop Food Likes and Dislikes

A cat’s food preferences are heavily influenced by the types of food it was exposed to as kitten and by the eating experiences during kitten hood. For example, kittens born on the streets and having to fight for a meal, along with what they actually got to eat, will have very different food-related memories compared to kittens raised in a secure home environment.

Consequently, it’s a good idea to expose cats to both dry food and to the variety of different textures available in wet foods from an early age. Not only does this help pet parents be successful at meal times by being able to serve meals they know their cat will enjoy, but there are also definitive health benefits. Dry foods are believed to help to keep teeth clean as a result of an abrasive effect while chewing. Wet foods contain moisture and help keep cats well hydrated since cats do not have a high thirst drive. So consider a combo-diet that offers the best of both.

Sniffing out a Favorite Recipe

A cat will usually sniff the food in their food bowl before eating it. And, if the smell isn’t appealing, they may simply walk away without even taking a mouthful.

Cats have 65 million olfactory (scent) receptors, compared to the 15 million human receptors. That’s why feeding a cat a meal that has a very appealing aroma is so important.

When it comes to different wet food textures (and kibble shapes), think of Goldilocks and the three bears and how she tried out their porridge bowls, chairs and beds until she selected what was “just right”.

The ease with which cats pick up a food and the way it feels in the cat’s mouth plays a big part in whether they will make a meal of what is being served in the food bowl. Cats are very individual creatures and, in a multicat household, each will have its own preferences.

In the wild, a cat’s prey will have different textures, so texture preferences are instinctive. In a domestic setting, some prefer soft minced foods, or lots of gravy. For others, the preference may be more chunky bites. Fortunately, there are lots of options for your cat to emulate Goldilocks and find one (or more) textures that are just right!

Wet Cat Food Forms & Textures Dictionary:

Wellness Pet Food has a wide variety of wet cat food texture options. We’ll define each texture below. Please note that many textures are similar across brands, but some of the textures below are unique to Wellness cat foods and are indicated with this symbol: *. Please note that the accompanying visuals are for texture reference only. Color will vary between each recipe, and as our products are natural, you may notice slight variations in consistency, shape, size and aroma.

Pâté: Completely smooth recipe with uniform consistency. Pâtés can vary with some being softer and creamier, and some being firmer. Pâtés are spreadable.
Minced: Very tiny chopped “crumbles” of protein served in light gravy.
Gravies: Small pieces of protein in irregular or variable shapes, in a thick gravy base.
Morsels (often referred to as cubed): Distinctive cube-shaped protein cuts that are slightly larger than Gravies protein pieces. Served in light gravy.
Flaked: Long, thin, flat pieces of fish in broth. Serves similarly to how a can of tuna fish breaks apart.
CORE Signature Selects Flaked recipes

6. Chunky: Thick chunks of protein in a thick sauce with some small shreds of meat dispersed throughout.

wellness wet cat food signature selects chunky

CORE Signature Selects Chunky recipes

7. Shredded: Long thin pieces of meat in varying widths. Served in light gravy.

wellness wet cat food signature selects shredded

CORE Signature Selects Shredded recipes

8. Sliced: Protein pieces are wider, longer and more flat than minced or cubed options. Protein pieces are uniformly sized. Served in light gravy.

CORE Hearty Cuts

9. *Hearty Cuts: Similar to Sliced, but with longer and more narrow cuts of meat. Served in light gravy.

wellness wet cat CORE shredded sides in broth

CORE Simply Shreds Shredded

10. Shredded Sides in Broth: Savory, transparent broth or “soup” containing pieces of finely shredded pure fish, meat or chicken. This is considered a mixer or topper to be served in conjunction with complete and balanced wet or dry food options.

11. Flaked Sides in Broth: Savory, transparent broth or “soup” containing flat, flaked pieces of pure fish. This is considered a mixer or topper to be served in conjunction with complete and balanced wet or dry food options.

wellness wet cat CORE flaked sides in broth

CORE Simply Shreds Flaked

12. *Duo-layer: Features two textures in one meal. The bottom is a smooth pâté and the top is cubed shaped cuts. To serve, peel the lid and flip the plastic cup upside-down into dish.

CORE Divine Duos

Food Trials

If you made it through that list, you’re probably feeling at least a little overwhelmed. That’s OK! When it comes to narrowing down your cat’s wet food preferences, there’s bound to be some trial and error. Stay strong!

If you’re finding it difficult to find a food your cat prefers, consider doing your own food trial. Put out small amounts of a few different textures and see which food your cat prefers. Because Wellness has a 100% Catisfaction Guarantee on all their cat foods, if certain options are rejected, they can be returned for a full refund. And customer support is available to answer questions and make suggestions.

Unless indicated, the above varieties are all well-balanced, full meals with the essential vitamins and minerals that cats need to have a healthy diet. The different Wellness food brands such as CORE and Wellness Complete Health offer different textures in both cans and single serving pouches.

Now THAT was a great meal!

Happy cat after a delicious meal! Photo by Yerlin Matu on Unsplash

This is where people and cats agree—they need to feel good after a great meal!
The ratio of protein, fat and carbohydrates in your cat’s food can affect how your cat’s body feels as they start to digest the meal so that they feel comfortable and hence, are relaxed and happy after a meal. Cats are able to determine which textures make them feel the best. Also, from the pet parent’s viewpoint, their cat’s acceptance of a food texture equates parental happiness. So, it’s a win-win!

Food Bowl Location, Location, Location

Because mealtime experiences continue to play a part throughout a cat’s life, where the food bowl is placed in the home is important and can influence meals. Keep it away from high traffic areas and place it where the cat can see who is approaching from every angle.

Food bowls should be washed out after every meal – including dry food meals. Wet food loses its palatability and degrades if left standing out. So, wet meals should be served and put away in the refrigerator if not completely eaten. The shape of the food bowl is also important. Cats prefer oval bowls and flatter ones to make it easier to eat.

Many cats enjoy many small meals during the day. Covered food bowls allow wet food to be left out longer. While a smart food bowl that opens for a designated cat activated by the cat’s individual microchip is the answer. It maintains food freshness and also ensures the cat is getting her full meals in a multi-pet household and that the dog or another cat isn’t sneaking up and stealing.

Watch all our tips on getting your finicky cat to eat:

This Is Why Cats Sleep So Much

Posted on June 13, 2019December 16, 2020 by Above1 Support

Content originally published on BestLifeOnline.com.

If there were such a thing as the Nap Olympics, there’s no doubt that a cat would emerge victorious. On average, felines sleep for 15 hours a day, and some can snooze for as much as 20 hours in a single 24-hour period. The only question is: Why do cats sleep so much?

The answer lies in the domestic cat’s ancestry. According to the National Sleep Foundation, cats are crepuscular animals, meaning that they snooze during the day and become alert between dusk and dawn (just like lions and other large cats).

“On average, cats sleep for 15 hours a day, a trait they inherited from their wild ancestors,” explains Dr. Danielle Bernal, a veterinarian with Wellness Natural Pet Food. “While household cats are largely domesticated, they may still have a wild streak in them and may show primal instincts of hunting during these twilight hours.”

So, why do cats sleep so much if they live indoors? Of course, most domesticated cats aren’t exactly being forced to go outside and hunt for their food, but that doesn’t mean that they know that. And since hunting inside the house is out of the question, cats will get this built-up energy out by prowling and playing around the house (typically around the time that everyone else is sleeping, to the dismay of their owners).

Unlike humans, cats tend to remain alert even as they sleep, just in case potential prey (like a mouse) is nearby and they need to act fast. “While it may appear that a cat is sleeping the day away, they are ready to pounce and play at a moment’s notice,” explains Bernal. And, also unlike humans, cats are able to fall asleep almost immediately, especially after a long period of playtime or gallivanting around the house.

As cats get older, it gets even easier for them to fall into deeper and longer sleeps. Typically, kittens and senior cats require the most sleep, while the average-aged cat is able to thrive on a measly 15 or so hours.

Though cats prefer to snooze while it’s still daylight, many a feline will adjust their sleep schedule just to pencil in some behind-the-ear scratches and play time. Sure, cats might be natural predators with a penchant for hunting, but at the end of the day, cuddles trump catching prey any day. And if you’re not a pet owner yet but want to be, then read up on these 30 Mind-Blowing Health Benefits of Pets.

*Wellness has rights to republish this content. Original story linked here.

Wellness Complete Health Grain-Free Recipes Replacing Grained Diets

Posted on June 12, 2019December 18, 2020 by Above1 Support

Wellness is launching grain-free kibble diets for cats that provide high-quality animal protein sources, balanced with grain-free carbohydrates, essential vitamins and minerals for whole-body health – catisfaction guaranteed! Each grain-free recipe delivers the great nutrition expected from Wellness Complete Health®, but without the grains.

During this transition we recommend that if you are currently feeding a grained food and will be switching to the Complete Health® Grain Free product line to choose the recipe or life-stage diet comparable to the grained portfolio.

Tips for Transitioning

· Transition your cat to a new diet over a period of at least seven days.

· Gradually decrease the amount of current food while increasing the amount of new food.

What about Complete Health cans?

The Complete Health Wet Cat portfolio offers natural, grain free nutrition in a wide variety of forms and flavors, so that it’s easy for every cat to find their favorite.

Increase Protein With CORE

All Wellness dry cat recipes provide natural, balanced nutrition with fresh meat as the first ingredient. Therefore, selecting a CORE diet is a great alternative to the grained recipes – expect increased protein levels and the same high-quality, grain-free ingredients. CORE is a very palatable diet and can be higher in calories due to the nutrient-dense nature of the formulas, so it is best to transition gradually and monitor eating behaviors immediately following transition to ensure your cat is not being overfed.

CORE Feeding Guidelines: While the feeding recommendations are similar, due to the nutrient-dense nature of the formulas some CORE diets are higher in calories and may have slightly lower recommended feeding amounts.

To explore all of the Complete Health Grain Free recipes visit Wellness Pet Food. If you have any other questions or would like more information please call 1-800-225-0904 and a member from our team can assist you. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 8:00am to 5:00pm EST.

Tips for When You’re Grieving The Loss of a Beloved Pet

Posted on June 9, 2019December 16, 2020 by Above1 Support

Pets unfortunately can’t live alongside us forever, and although this is something we acknowledge when opening our hearts to our furry friends, losing a beloved pet can bring ultimate heartbreak and real grief. Friends and family often offer support because they too have once lost a pet, but it isn’t always easy to know what to feel or how to heal.

But here’s what we do know: everyone is going to handle losing their pet differently so here are some things you can do to begin your grieving process and honor the memory of your pet.

1. Cry

It seems so simple, but just letting yourself feel the hurt and loss with a good cry can be the first step in acknowledging the loss of your companion and starting to deal with the pain. People that aren’t pet owners might not understand it, but for those of us who truly love our dogs and cats, losing a pet can be the same as losing a treasured friend, and a member of the family. Allow yourself to break down, and also let yourself be comforted by those who love you and know how much your pet meant to you.

2. Write an Open Letter to Your Pet

cat

Sometimes when we lose someone we love, we find ourselves faced with the words that went unsaid, and we wish that we could just have a few moments to tell our lost companion how much he or she truly meant. The same can be said for our pets. If you write a letter to your pet, tell them how much they truly meant to you and your family, how lucky you were to have them for the time that you did, how much they taught you, and what a good boy or girl they truly were.
If you want, post your letter to your pet on your social media pages. You might be surprised how the kind words and shared memories from others can raise your spirits. Others have experienced what you have, and many may have also been lucky enough to know your pet as well. Let them offer comfort and share their favorite stories of your pet.

3. Don’t Rush to Move On

Rushing out to get a new dog or cat might not give you the time you need to completely heal. Take some time to remember your pet before trying to replace them. When the right pet comes along for you, even years down the road, you’ll know just as you knew with your first that it’s the right time. It’s often said that rescue pets seem to find us when we aren’t looking for them.

4. Honor Their Memory in a Special Way

Knowing that you can honor your pet’s memory in a meaningful and lasting way is one of the strongest steps you can take in grieving and recovering from the loss of your pet. Choose a way to honor them with a special ceremony or service, such as a scattering of ashes on his favorite beach, or a gathering of friends to toast his memory at his favorite park. Let friends share their stories, or just tell a few of your own that are sure to bring a smile to the face of all who loved them.

dog park

You can also choose a more lasting way to honor your pet’s memory, such as sponsoring and dedicating a park bench at their favorite dog park or a donation at a shelter and rescue, have their paw print turned into a unique piece of artwork or tattoo, or have their ashes interred into a tree bulb for planting at their favorite outdoor spot. Pet ashes can even be made into beautiful art or custom jewelry.

Regardless of how recent your loss may be, at Wellness Pet Food we understand that losing a pet can be one of the most difficult moments in your life. Pets are family and losing them is hard. Allow yourself the time you truly need to grieve the loss of your beloved companion.

June 9th is World Pet Memorial Day, read here for more ways to honor a lost pet today and everyday.

8 Ways Cats find #JOMO on Take Your Dog to Work Day

Posted on June 5, 2019December 18, 2020 by Above1 Support

When it comes to being social, cats are often inaccurately labeled as solitary, aloof and asocial. In reality, cats are social but their social structure is a little different than their canine companions. Cats are territorial and take great comfort in the familiarity of their surroundings. For a cat to get to know another cat requires finesse and patience to avoid fear of the unfamiliar feline being a threat. So a one day social event where unfamiliar cats meet each other at an owner’s place of work wouldn’t be high on a cat’s list of fun ideas. So will cats feel left out as they’re home alone on Take Your Dog to Work Day? Actually, there are probably quite a few cats who may relish in having the house to themselves for those extra hours. That’s not to say a cat doesn’t love their canine companion but they may like this brief one-day staycation.

These are 8 ways cats will celebrate having the house to themselves:

1. Show that belly.

show the belly

Most cats love to stretch out and snooze as the sun streams in the window. For a cat to stretch out on his back and expose his belly requires a feeling of security. If a cat has an uncertain relationship with the family dog, or if the dog wants to play, sunbathing may not happen as often as the cat would like. Take Your Dog to Work Day gives the cat many hours of ground-level nap time where that tummy can face the world (or rather, the empty room). Even if it’s not sunny, the cat will still enjoy those long yoga stretches without getting poked in the tummy by a dog nose or feeling the breeze of a wagging tail.

2. Gravity testing.

Many cats indulge in the feline sport of pawing at objects on counters and tables to see how easily they move. The fun starts when the object manages to go off the edge and land on the floor. When the dog is at home, this gravity-testing activity may get cut short if the dog happens to grab the object after it lands and run off with it. The dog may even bark in anticipation of the impending landing which may break the cat’s concentration during this highly refined experiment. With everyone out of the house, the cat can conduct uninterrupted gravity tests.

3. Pillow time.

pillow time

In many households, the owner’s bed is a prime napping location. Soft, spacious and filled with the comforting scents of the owner, it’s not unusual for cats and dogs to take afternoon naps there. With the house to himself, the cat can pick the ideal spot on the bed for napping as well as a post-nap grooming session. This becomes even more of a luxury if the cat shares the home with a very large dog or multiple pets.

4. Everything here is mine.

That’s probably what the cat would say if he could on Take Your Dog to Work Day. Whether it’s the bed, the water bowl, the couch or the dog’s favorite chair, on this day it all gets a good dose of cat hair.

5. Treasure hunting.

exploring

If there are normally rooms that are kept closed off from the dog, there’s a chance they may be left open if the dogs accompany pet parents to work. What a perfect opportunity for a cat to go on an indoor field trip to unknown lands but still be close enough to his litter box and food bowl.

6. Set the toys free.

Cat with toy

In some homes shared by cats and dogs, the cat toys have to be kept put away and only brought out in areas the dog can’t access. Take Your Dog to Work Day (TYDTWD) means cat toys can be left out everywhere. And, while the toys are out, why not toss a little catnip around as well so kitty can have a little party of one. Cats are quiet when they party so there’s no need to worry about disturbing the neighbors!

7. Catch up on beauty sleep.

sleeping cat

Cats are masters when it comes to sleeping and here’s a chance to fully partake in this beloved feline ritual. With the house more silent than usual, it’s a perfect opportunity for a cat to string many short cat naps into several hours of sweet dreams.

8. Happy reunion.

cat and dog

At the end of the day, the cat and dog will likely enjoy being reunited. The cat will get a recap of the dog’s day by checking out unfamiliar and interesting scents on his fur. The dog will probably be so eager to share his excitement over the day and luckily, the cat, being well-rested, will be ready to hear all about it.

To all the cats with JOMO (Joy of Missing Out), tag @wellnesspetfood or #wellnesspetfood to show us how your feline friends are enjoying the day without that pesky pup!

Should My Indoor Cat Use an Exercise Cat Wheel?

Posted on June 4, 2019December 16, 2020 by Above1 Support

Cats need 15 minutes of exercise a day to avoid obesity and depression. The cat exercise wheel is a fun, safe way for your cat to get the exercise he needs.

Cats are known for finding the best sunbeams for napping, for keeping your feet warm at night and for having uncanny timing when glancing ironically at you. As cats age (indoor cats in particular), they exercise less and less, but all cats need exercise regardless of how old they are. According to PetMD, cats need to be engaged in “activity” for at least 15 minutes a day.

Why is Exercise Important for Cats?

Without daily exercise, not only do cats run the risk of becoming obese and of developing medical problems such as heart disease and muscle deterioration, but they also are at increased risk of developing feline depression and other psychological problems.

What is Considered Exercise for Cats?

cat stretch

Cat exercise is considered anything that gets cats moving outside of their normal routine. The walk from the bed to the couch into the kitchen and back to the couch is not considered exercise . The kind of activity that merits exercise gets your cat’s heart rate up. So, when you play with your cat with their toys and they run, jump and scamper, they’re being active.

Although 15 minutes a day doesn’t sound like a lot in theory, it can be tough to keep up with a cat’s fitness needs if you are someone who works and travels often. This means cats need a way to exercise on their own for those times their parents can’t be there to play and get them moving. But how?

Have You Heard about a Cat Exercise Wheel?

This is where the cat exercise wheel comes in (yes, it’s a real thing). Also sometimes called a cat hamster wheel, the cat exercise wheel created by One Fast Cat is a fun and safe piece of equipment that gets your kitty moving. Conceptually, the cat exercise wheel is just like a hamster wheel, but it is designed especially for cats.

What is a Cat Exercise Wheel?

via GIPHY

The four–foot–diameter wheel sits on a sturdy platform that braces the wheel and allows it to roll in place. The tread is 10–inches wide, so your cat has enough room to jog without being at risk of falling off or of sustaining an injury. A foam/rubber material covers the tread your cat runs on, so that your cat has traction without the risk of claw-snagging.

How Does the Cat Exercise Wheel Work?

To use the cat exercise wheel, your cat just steps on the wheel and starts walking. Many owners use toys or treats as motivators to get their cat comfortable using it at first. As your cat accelerates their pace, the wheel turns faster, prompting your cat to pick up speed. Cats will use the wheel multiple times throughout a day and often end up getting more than the requisite 15 minutes of fitness that they need to sustain good physical and mental health.

Exercise is an essential component for your cat’s overall health. Another important aspect of feline health is diet. A balanced diet of foods made with natural ingredients, like those recipes made by Wellness Pet Food.

America’s 10 Most Pet Friendly Companies of 2019

Posted on June 3, 2019December 18, 2020 by Above1 Support

For the third year in a row, Wellness Natural Pet Food is honoring those who set the bar high for pet-friendly workplaces by curating its list of America’s Most Pet Friendly Companies, released in celebration of Take Your Dog to Work Day on June 21.

1. Amazon (Seattle, WA)

Photo via Amazon

Amazon takes the pet-friendly office to a whole new level as there are as many as 6,000 dogs in the Seattle-based headquarters on a given day. The company has been dog-friendly since its creation but has amped up their dog-friendly culture by creating multiple dog parks, including a doggie deck, for pups to stretch their legs and providing treats at every reception desk in their buildings.

2. Harpoon Brewery (Boston, MA)

Photo via Harpoon Brewery

Featured for the second consecutive year, Harpoon Brewery welcomes dogs on a daily basis where they can lounge in the office or explore the Boston Seaport for a walk by the water. In 2018, Harpoon hosted the first-ever “Dogtoberfest,” which allowed Boston pet parents to bring their dogs along for an afternoon of beer tasting – just for the humans, though!

3. Trupanion (Seattle, WA)

Photo via Trupanion

A leader in medical insurance for cats and dogs, Trupanion is all about pet perks for its employees, too! Dogs are frequent visitors in the office, so the company has a team of in-house dog walkers to keep pooches moving as well as a Pet Program Manager and a Pet Emergency Team who work together to ensure that all four-legged friends are safe during the workday. Trupanion also supports pet parents by offering a pet bereavement benefit which includes three days of paid leave should their pet pass away.

4. Ben & Jerry’s (Burlington, VT)

Employees at Ben & Jerry’s love their dogs almost as much as they love ice cream and their office is a place where “K9-5ers” are always welcome! The company’s “Canine Culture Committee” works hard to ensure that the 35-40 office dogs are happy and healthy by inviting in veterinarians to speak about behavior and training tips to educate pet parents. Dogs start the work day with a dog treat from the front desk on the way into the office. The only “work” they must do is enjoy plenty of play time and naps – talk about a sweet deal!

5. Contently (New York, NY)

Photo via Contently

Dogs have a permanent place on the employee roster at Contently, a leading content marketing platform company. On any given day pups can be found roaming the halls or curled up on conference room floors. Employees are encouraged to bond over pet parenthood through the company’s “Contently-Canines” Slack channel where pet parents can exchange photos, ask for advice and coordinate dog-sitting when it’s needed. These pet parents have each other’s backs – and Fido’s too!

6. Procore (Carpinteria, CA)

Photo via Procore

Procore employees love their pups! The dog-friendly office has free treats and water bowls around campus and outdoor lawns to ensure pups have playtime too. Dogs and employees alike are a big fan of the frequent company “pawtys” otherwise known as dog-friendly happy hours. Employees who are pet parents also enjoy pet insurance as a benefit.

7. Ticketmaster (Los Angeles, CA)

Photo via Ticketmaster

Ticketmaster employees are welcome to bring their dogs to the office. To show additional support for pet parents, the company offers pet insurance as a benefit, so employees don’t have to worry about coverage for Fido.

8. PetSafe (Knoxville, TN)

Photo via PetSafe

As one of the most trusted pet brands globally, it only makes sense that the PetSafe® headquarters would be filled with the employees’ pets. PetSafe pups get a special first look at all of the company’s latest innovations, often testing new toys, treats, fountains and more before anyone else to help inform research, planning and design. Because PetSafe is dedicated to creating “best moments” between pets and their owners, having pups at the office every day serves as the perfect reminder of its overarching purpose.

9. TripAdvisor (Needham, MA)

Trip Advisor employees never have to leave their fur babies at home! The company’s headquarters is known to have dogs walking around the office, creating a fun, pet-friendly working environment for all employees.

10. Purely Elizabeth (Boulder, CO)

Photo via Purely Elizabeth

Purely Elizabeth, a leading natural foods brand offering groundbreaking and delicious gluten-free products, strives to support employees however they can – which includes pet parenthood! The company encourages pet parents to spend more time with their dogs by introducing a pet-friendly culture where dogs are always welcome. Office pups enjoy lounging in the sun by the windows and are spoiled with treats!

Wellness Natural Pet Food Surveys American Pet Parents on Pet-Friendly Workplaces

Posted on June 3, 2019December 18, 2020 by Above1 Support

Employers looking to boost workplace morale may want to consider hiring from a new pool of talent: one with wagging tails, fur and four legs.

A new survey from Wellness® Natural Pet Food found that 65 percent of American pet parents believe that having pets in the workplace would benefit company culture. That same survey revealed that not only are pets beneficial to morale, but may help with recruitment and employee retention:

•   75 percent of respondents believe that pets would diffuse a stressful situation in the workplace
•   59 percent feel they would get to know their colleagues better if there were pets present
•   Nearly half of dog owners say that “pet perks” are important when considering a job offer, with one in five millennial pet parents noting specifically that being able to bring their dog to work is important when considering a job offer

Pets At Work Can Help Conquer Distractions:

More than half (54%) of pet parents report feeling distracted at work thinking about their pet at home
One in three (33%) pet parents say taking care of their pet interferes with their work hours

Making Decisions to Make Our Pets Happy:

28% of pet parents would consider accepting a job that would provide more time to spend with their pet

Pets & Workplace Benefits:

One-third (32%) of respondents reported feeling more motivated or productive because of pets in the work environment

“Studies have shown how pets can have a positive impact on our own health and wellbeing – from lowering resting blood pressure to reducing stress – but now people are thinking about how those benefits translate to the work environment,” said Dr. Danielle Bernal, staff veterinarian with Wellness Natural Pet Food. “With more companies realizing that pets can improve the working experience, more are going above and beyond to cater to our new furry officemates and make sure they are happy and healthy from 9 to 5.”

Ben & Jerry’s makes the list of Top 10 Pet Friendliest Companies in 2019. Photo via Ben & Jerry’s

Adopt a Cat Month: How You Can Help

Posted on June 1, 2019December 18, 2020 by Above1 Support

June is Adopt a Cat Month, which means that every day for the next thirty days is a Caturday. In case you didn’t know, it’s also kitten season according American Humane and is a time when millions of kittens will be born. Many of those kittens will end up in a shelter and will need to be adopted. If you’ve been thinking of getting a cat or if you’d like to help the millions of cats and kittens needing homes, now is the time to take action.

Why You Should Adopt a Cat (or Two )

Cats are smart, affectionate and loyal companions. They are also low-maintenance pets, which make them an excellent choice for busy families who want to be pet owners. Many cats are content to be solo pets, but if you’re a pet owner who travels or often not home, adopting two cats (siblings tend to do well together) not only gives two cats a home, but it also gives your furry friends someone to play with when you aren’t around.

Other reasons to adopt cats include:

Cats are entertaining—watching them play or do silly things often puts you in a happy mood.
Cats can help reduce stress and anxiety.
Cat purrs have proven healing powers, which include lowering blood pressure and healing muscles.

What Goes into Cat Maintenance

If you’ve never owned or adopted a cat or kitten but are interested, as noted, cats are very low-maintenance. They need food, water, veterinary care and a litter box if they are going to be indoor pets. While you should trim their claws and clean their teeth and ears, cats groom themselves very efficiently. You can brush them to assist with grooming as this is also a great way to bond with your cat.

Other Ways to Support Adopt a Cat Month

For others, now may not be the time to adopt a cat, or you may already have one (or several) cats. The good news is that you can still help support cats in need during adopt a cat month. There are several ways.

Call your local pet shelters and find out what resources they need and make a donation. Shelters need many things ranging from pet food and pet bowls, beds, blankets, spay/neuter costs, to office and cleaning supplies.
Create your own virtual ASPCA Adopt a Shelter Cat Month Campaign and help raise money to support shelter cats in need.
Promote Adopt a Cat Month on your social media pages with links to causes you support.
Become a foster pet parent. Many people don’t have the ability to be full-time pet owners; foster programs allow you to give love and nurturing to a cat who is waiting to find its forever home.

There are millions of cats out there that need your help. Even if this June isn’t the right time for you to adopt, there are still many ways you can offer your support and make a real difference in hundreds of cats’ lives this month. After all, cats (and their hilarious videos) bring joy to everyone. Take the time to say thanks by being active during Adopt a Cat Month.

Cats are wonderful, fun and friendly pets full of personality and Wellness Pet Food has a recipe for each one! Did you adopt this month? Show us by tagging @wellnesspetfood on Instagram!

About This Page

Pet Type:

CAT

Topic:

Pet Rescue & Adoption

Date:

01/06/2019