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 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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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!
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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
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.
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.
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.
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!
A common concern among many cat owners is how to help their cats manage anxiety. For some cats, it takes something big to create anxiety and for others, even the smallest changes in daily life can cause upheaval and uncertainty. Some cat owners will investigate behavioral therapy and others will talk to their veterinarians about incorporating medication. Then there are the owners who simply don’t know what to do. Whether it’s an ongoing generalized anxiety or situational anxiety, cat owners want their cats healthy and happy.
The soaring popularity of Cannabidiol (CBD) oil has resulted in more people turning to CBD for their pets to help not only with physical pain but also with behavior issues. The CBD (cannabidiol) market, though certainly causing quite a buzz, is not yet fully backed by science and the claims companies make often lack scientific substantiation. Despite that, cat owners are encouraged by anecdotal evidence and are buying CBD products. Is CBD oil for cats a miracle remedy for anxiety? Is it safe and effective? Based on all the anecdotal success stories you would certainly think so but it’s not that simple.
What is CBD Oil?
CBD is a compound derived from hemp. To be considered CBD, the oil must contain less than 0.3 percent of tetrahydrocannabidol (THC). Therefore, CBD, does not cause any psychoactive reaction. The fact that CBD can have beneficial effects without these psychoactive side-effects makes it appealing to cat owners when it comes to administering to their pets.
Is CBD Oil Safe for Cats?
The problem is that the CBD market is still relatively new and not yet well-regulated or third-party/government tested for safety. It may be difficult for consumers to be sure of what they’re buying. How do consumers know the product is correctly labeled? With regulated veterinary medications, veterinarians have accurate information regarding proper dosages, potential side effects, contraindications, toxicity levels and length of treatment. With CBD, there’s inconsistent information as well as whether the CBD oil in the product is even of good quality. Depending on where it’s purchased, there is the risk that there’s no CBD oil contained in the product at all. Depending on the manufacturing facility, a consumer can’t be certain the CBD oil is free of contaminants. Improperly formulated CBD oil that contains higher amounts of THC can be very toxic to pets.
Other Risks of CBD Oil in Cats
In addition, there’s another major concern. Some cat owners may be doing their own diagnosis on a cat and bypassing the veterinarian visit altogether. Skipping the veterinary exam and not getting an accurate diagnosis can be harmful to the cat or even life-threatening. Anxiety and stress may be due to an underlying medical problem. Although the cat may show improvements on CBD, it doesn’t other reasons for the anxiety such as intercat relationship issues, changes in the home environment and other potential stressors. Suppressing a behavior problem is not the same as identifying, understanding and resolving it.
12 Safe and Effective Ways to Help Treat Anxiety in Cats
If your cat seems anxious or stressed, your first step is to have the cat examined by the veterinarian. Don’t assume a problem is strictly behavioral before ruling out potential underlying medical causes. Some ways to help ease your cat’s anxiety include:
1. Hiding places:
Photo via @lilfranklestein_3
Hiding is a valuable coping mechanism for cats. Give your cat several hiding options in the home. Examples include: A-frame beds, boxes on their sides, paper bags without handles, cubbies, or cat tunnels. These provide easy ways for a cat to feel “invisible” and calm down.
2. Interactive Playtime:
Play is more than just exercise and fun. Playtime is a valuable therapy and helps release beneficial neurotransmitters. Engage your cat in at least two interactive play sessions a day. Use a fishing pole-type toy and move it so it imitates prey, allowing your cat to stalk, pounce and capture.
3. Food Puzzles:
Puzzle feeders are another wonderful way to exercise a cat’s natural hunting instinct. Puzzle feeders should be challenging but not frustrating in order to maintain the fun factor. Stuff a puzzle feeder with low-calorie, tasty treats like Wellness Kittles to keep your cat engaged with the activity. As with interactive playtime, food puzzles also help release beneficial neurotransmitters into the system.
4. Desensitization:
Train your cat to become comfortable with activities such as being in a carrier, car travel, unfamiliar people and handling. Gradual, positive and gentle training will help your cat become more at ease with each baby step.
5. Pheromone Therapy May Help:
There are artificial feline facial pheromone products available that may help cats associate objects and locations with comfort and familiarity. These products come in spray form and diffusers.
6. Provide Choice:
Don’t underestimate the importance of choice. Cats should have the choice of whether to engage or retreat. Forced interaction, holding or petting can create anxiety. Pay attention to a cat’s body language to see whether you are being invited closer or to keep your distance.
7. Play Music:
Classical and soft music may help calm your cat. There are even some cat-specific music CDs and downloads to play to help ease stress and anxiety. Many shelters use music to help with stress reduction.
8. Reduce Intercat Aggression:
Photo via Raul Varzar
Reduce anxiety and tension between cats by creating an environment where they don’t have to compete for resources. Some examples that help include increased number and locations of litter boxes, separate feeding stations, provide more bed locations, include elevated perches and provide enough scratching posts.
9. Perches and Cat Trees:
Your cat needs elevated perches and places to climb. It will help him get away from any chaos happening on ground level. Increased vertical territory can also help ease tension in multicat environments. Many cats feel more secure when they’re up high.
10. Quality Time Together:
Photo via Jesse Borovnica
You may be the most effective anxiety-reducer for your cat. Spend quality time together with your cat in ways he enjoys. Some cats love having close contact with their human family members and others may prefer being nearby while you read or watch TV. Cats left alone too much can become anxious.
11. Let the Sun Shine in:
Photo via Max Kukurudziak
Open curtains and let the sun in so your cat can enjoy the warmth and relaxation of sunbathing. Some cats also enjoy watching the view out the windows.
12. Call in a Professional:
If you aren’t able to alleviate the anxiety and feel you need more help, ask your veterinarian for a referral to a veterinary behaviorist or a certified cat behavior consultant. A behavior professional may be able to help uncover the anxiety triggers and develop a treatment plan customized for your specific cat.
Conclusion
CBD may ultimately be very promising but as of yet, there haven’t been enough studies and science behind it. We look forward, with interest, in seeing more research on effectiveness and safety.
After receiving over 900 entries, we are excited to announce our 2019 Small Breed Photo Contest Winners! Thank you to the hundreds of Wellness fans who shared their pet photos with us – we smiled, laughed and enjoyed each one. Get to know the pups behind the winning photos below!
WINNER!
Photo Submitted by: Alicia F.
Chihuahua, “Chihuahua,” Age 4
Location of photo taken: Uptown Charlotte, NC Favorite Wellness Food/Treat: Grain free lamb and salmon soft treats Does your pet have a nickname? Chi or Blue boy What is the naughtiest / funniest thing your pet has ever done? I walked into the kitchen one day and he somehow opened the drawers perfectly and used them as stairs to get on the kitchen counter! He was standing up there looking at me so proud of himself. What is the best memory you have involving your pet? The first day I met him! He was two years old and his family needed to find him a new home because of their work schedule. I met them at a park and as soon as I saw how confident he was and the happy dance he did for treats, I knew he was meant to be my boy! What is the best thing about being a small breed dog owner? You’re getting a big dog personality in a fun sized, lovable, travel-friendly package which fits perfectly on your lap for cuddle time!
FIRST RUNNER UP!
Photo Submitted by: Donna M.
Charlie, “Schnoodle,” Age 3
Social handle: @sweetbabycharlie Location of photo taken: Fort Greene Park, Brooklyn, NY Favorite Wellness Food/Treat: soft well bites turkey and duck. Does your pet have a nickname? So many! Bear, Boo, Charles, Chuckles, C…should I go on?! What is the naughtiest / funniest thing your pet has ever done? The first thing that comes to mind is when she was a puppy and was curious about the lilies we had in our apartment. I must have left her alone for five seconds and when I came back she had gotten into the flowers and her entire face was stained yellow from the pollen! It was not easy to get off and her face was bright yellow for a couple days. What is the best memory you have involving your pet? The first day we brought her home. She instantly brought so much joy into our lives and continues to every single day. What is the best thing about being a small breed dog owner? She’s small so I can take her everywhere with me!
SECOND RUNNER UP!
Photo Submitted by: Michael P.
Odin, “Yorkshire Terrier,” Age 2
Location of photo taken: At home. Favorite Wellness Food/Treat: Pure Rewards Chicken and Lamb Jerky bites Does your pet have a nickname? Odie or Stinky What is the naughtiest / funniest thing your pet has ever done? One time he was standing on a bench in our living room looking out the window and farted so loud he scared himself and looked around confused at what had happened! What is the best memory you have involving your pet? Seeing my wife’s face the day we picked him up. She had a yorkie when she lived at home with her parents but he had become so bonded with her father that she couldn’t take him from him when she moved in with me. Seeing her smile and tear up when we got to bring our buddy home was certainly the best. What is the best thing about being a small breed dog owner? Besides the easy clean up? Probably just that he can basically come anywhere with us and it isn’t a hassle. I have noticed that small breed dogs seem to have more personality than bigger dogs as well.
HONORABLE MENTION!
Photo Submitted by: Sheila S.
Smokey, “Shihtzu/poodle mix,” Age 12
Social handle: @smokeandsade Location of photo taken: Lower Calf Creek Falls, Utah Favorite Wellness Food/Treat: lamb and apple well bars, yum! Does your pet have a nickname? Just Smokey or Smokes What is the naughtiest / funniest thing your pet has ever done? Smokey learned how to open the cabinet door then pulled all of the treat bags out and helped himself. Luckily I caught him before he ate too many, it was too funny though! What is the best memory you have involving your pet? I have so many memories since rescuing Smokey seven years ago, but all the best memories have been when we go on a new adventure. We have traveled to 35 states together and lived in four different states! He has been the best side-kick. What is the best thing about being a small breed dog owner? I love that Smokey loves to go hiking, swimming, or kayaking and is always up for anything, but he also will hang out, get cuddles and a belly rub if that’s what I would rather do. Plus, he’s so small, it’s easy to pack up and take him anywhere. Sometimes he even hitches a ride in my backpack if he starts to get tired.
Photo Submitted by: Brittney M.
Franklin, “French Bulldog,” Age 3
Social handle:@the_dapper_frenchie Location of photo taken: Skinner Bark Park, Chicago, IL Does your pet have a nickname? Little Man and Squirt What is the naughtiest / funniest thing your pet has ever done? Frank was playing in a wading pool by himself at the dog park when a huge Great Dane came bounding over. Needless to say, Frank didn’t take well to the splashing. Frank puffed out his chest and let out his gremlin Frenchie war cry, and the Dane went running! What is the best memory you have involving your pet? My best memory is picking him up for the first time in all of his three pounds of glory. He was the tiniest little thing, and so sweet and comfortable. What is the best thing about being a small breed dog owner? All of the sweet snuggles and being able to take them just about anywhere!
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @wellnesspetfood from May 13th to May 18th for more Small Breed photos and information during our Small Breed Takeover!
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