'They hold a lot'

Bruce commemorated his mother by posting lyrics to his song‚ 'The Wish'

Numerous wealthy donors — including Reid Hoffman

'Cultural competency'

'I say he saved my life. He was a hero'

The post 10 Best Cat Conditioners in 2024 – Reviews &; Top Picks by Jessica Kim appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it‚ but all of these articles were assigned‚ contracted and paid for‚ so they aren't considered public domain. However‚ we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article‚ then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com. While cats are known for being able to self-groom‚ some cats need some extra help maintaining healthy skin and coat. Some cats may develop skin issues‚ and older cats can start to require assistance with grooming as they lose their mobility. Using a high-quality cat conditioner can do wonders by revitalizing the coat and alleviating skin irritation. In contrast‚ a poorly made conditioner containing harsh chemicals can end up exacerbating skin issues. Your cat’s skin and coat health are essential to their quality of life and well-being. So‚ we’ve done the research to find the best cat conditioners available this year. Our reviews will help you decide which cat conditioner is the right choice for your precious cat. A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites in 2024 Image Product Details Best Overall Hepper Pet Conditioner and Moisturizer pH-balanced formula Free of harsh chemicals Safe for cats and dogs CHECK PRICE Best Value Petkin 4-in-1 Vanilla Coconut Scent Dog &; Cat Shampoo &; Conditioner 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner Helps detangle long cat hair Paraben-free and gentle on the skin CHECK PRICE Premium Choice kin+kind Natural Dog &; Cat Moisturizer &; Conditioner Safe for dry and sensitive skin Formulated for deep moisturization Contains natural and organic ingredients CHECK PRICE Best for Kittens Pawtitas Organic Sheabutter &; Oatmeal Cat Shampoo &; Conditioner Hypoallergenic formula Unscented and no artificial fragrances 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner speeds up bath time CHECK PRICE Earthbath Shed Control Green Tea &; Awapuhi Dog &; Cat Conditioner Specifically designed to reduce shedding Paraben and phosphate-free formula Safe for cats and dogs CHECK PRICE The 10 Best Cat Conditioners 1. Hepper Pet Conditioner and Moisturizer – Best Overall Check Price on Amazon Check Price on Hepper Volume: 8 oz Scent: Cucumber and aloe Main ingredients: Coconut base You can’t go wrong with using Hepper Pet Conditioner and Moisturizer on your cat because it’s versatile and works on all hair types. It has a pH-balanced formula and contains all-natural ingredients. It’s also free of sulfates‚ silicones‚ parabens‚ alcohol‚ and other harsh chemicals. This conditioner’s gentle yet powerful formula makes it safe to use on kittens and cats with sensitive skin. You can also use it on dogs‚ making it a great conditioner for multi-pet households. The only downside is that the bottle size is relatively small‚ and you may use all of it quickly. However‚ a little goes a long way with this conditioner‚ and we recommend it as the best overall cat conditioner. Disclaimer: At Catster we’ve admired Hepper for many years‚ and decided to take a controlling ownership interest‚ so that we could benefit from the outstanding designs of this cool cat company! Pros pH-balanced formula Free of harsh chemicals Safe for cats and dogs Cons Sold in small quantities 2. Petkin Vanilla Coconut Cat Shampoo &; Conditioner – Best Value Check Price on Amazon Check Price on Chewy Volume: 32 oz Scent: Vanilla Main ingredients: Organic oat extract If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that still works effectively‚ Petkin 4-in-1 Vanilla Coconut Scent Dog &; Cat Shampoo &; Conditioner is the best cat conditioner for the money. This product makes bath time a faster process by combining shampoo and conditioner. It does a great job of detangling and helping you brush through long cat hair. It’s also paraben-free and is gentle on sensitive skin. The only downside is that the scent fades pretty quickly‚ so it’s not the best option if you’re looking for a long-lasting deodorizer. Pros 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner Helps detangle long cat hair Paraben-free and gentle on the skin Cons Doesn’t deodorize for long 3. kin+kind Natural Cat Moisturizer &; Conditioner – Premium Choice Check Price on Amazon Check Price on Chewy Volume: 12 oz Scent: Unscented Main ingredients: Organic aloe water‚ Cetearyl alcohol‚ betaine‚ coconut cleanser‚ organic shea Spoil your cat with this luxurious conditioner. The kin+kind Natural Dog and Cat Moisturizer &; Conditioner is an excellent option for cats with dry and sensitive skin. The formula is specifically made for deep moisturization and detangling the coat. It consists of high-quality natural ingredients and some organic ingredients that work to nourish and revitalize the skin and coat. This conditioner is intentionally unscented so that it doesn’t interfere with the scent of whatever shampoo you use. With this in mind‚ it’s not the best option for deodorizing. You’ll probably have to purchase a pet cologne or deodorizing finishing spray for your cat to keep pet odors at bay for a longer period of time. Pros Safe for dry and sensitive skin Formulated for deep moisturization Contains natural and organic ingredients Cons Not designed for long-lasting deodorizing 4. Pawtitas Organic Cat Shampoo &; Conditioner – Best for Kittens Check Price on Amazon Check Price on Chewy Volume: 16 oz Scent: Unscented Main ingredients: Certified organic neem‚ certified organic chamomile‚ certified organic olive leaf‚ certified organic moringa‚ colloidal oatmeal Kittens can have particularly sensitive skin‚ so it’s important to choose grooming products that are made with gentle and natural ingredients. It’s also beneficial to find a hypoallergenic formula. The Pawtitas Organic Sheabutter &; Oatmeal Cat Shampoo &; Conditioner checks off all the boxes and is a safe option for kittens. It’s a 2-in-1 hypoallergenic shampoo and conditioner that helps speed up bath time so that your tiny kitten is in and out of the bath in no time. It works to soothe and moisturize dry and itchy skin while conditioning the coat. It’s also fragrance-free and won’t irritate your kitten’s senses. The only downside to this conditioner is that it’s relatively expensive. However‚ considering how it’s both gentle and effective‚ you’re definitely getting your money’s worth with this option. Pros Hypoallergenic formula Unscented and no artificial fragrances 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner speeds up bath time Cons Relatively expensive 5. Earthbath Shed Control Green Tea &; Awapuhi Dog &; Cat Conditioner Check Price on Amazon Check Price on Chewy Volume: 16 oz Scent: Green tea Main ingredients: Purified water‚ vegetable-derived conditioner and detangler‚ organic shea butter‚ omega-6 fatty acids‚ aloe vera Earthbath Shed Control Green Tea &; Awapuhi Dog &; Cat Conditioner is an excellent option for high-shedding cats. This conditioner is specifically formulated to reduce shedding for cats and dogs that are over 6 weeks old. It has a paraben and phosphate-free formula and contains natural ingredients that help nourish the skin and strengthen the coat. It contains green tea extract and omega-6 fatty acids to repair and protect the skin and coat. Regular use of this conditioner can revitalize your cat’s skin health‚ which in turn will reduce shedding and pet dander in the home. You’ll also find that it’ll make brushing your cat’s coat much easier‚ and many users have noted how soft and silky their cats’ coats feel after just one use. Pros Specifically designed to reduce shedding Paraben and phosphate-free formula Safe for cats and dogs Cons Not for kittens under 6 weeks old 6. Zymox Enzymatic Dog &; Cat Leave-On Conditioner Check Price on Amazon Check Price on Chewy Volume: 12 oz‚ 1 gal Scent: Unscented Main ingredients: Purified water‚ stearyl alcohol‚ cetyl alcohol‚ ethylhexyl isononanoate‚ quaternium 82 Zymox Enzymatic Dog &; Cat Leave-On Conditioner is specifically designed for cats and dogs suffering from itchy and inflamed skin. It contains three enzymes that work to protect the skin from bacterial and fungal microorganisms that can irritate the skin. While it has a powerful formula‚ it’s gentle on the skin and safe to use on pets of all ages and breeds. Since it’s a leave-on conditioner‚ you don’t have to worry about spending extra time rinsing it out of your cat’s coat. It’s worth noting that while this conditioner doesn’t have a fragrance‚ it does have a bit of a strong smell. It can be a bit overpowering and may not be pleasant for both you and your cat. Pros Doesn’t need to be rinsed out Protects skin from bacterial and fungal microorganisms Safe for cats of all ages and breeds Cons Has a strong smell 7. Davis Oatmeal Leave-On Dog &; Cat Conditioner Check Price on Amazon Check Price on Chewy Volume: 12 oz Scent: Apple Main ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal‚ aqueous solution of guar hydropropyltrimonium chloride‚ germaben II‚ cetearyl alcohol‚ cetrimonium bromide Davis Oatmeal Leave-On Dog &; Cat Conditioner provides immediate relief for cats suffering from skin dryness and inflammation. Soothing colloidal oatmeal is the first ingredient‚ and the formula is gentle enough to use on kittens. Since it’s a leave-on conditioner‚ you don’t have to worry about spending extra time bathing your cat. When using this conditioner‚ it’s important to ensure you’re using it correctly. It has a thick consistency that can make it difficult to squeeze out of the bottle. However‚ it’s designed to be diluted with water‚ and it’s recommended to mix it with water if you plan to use it as a leave-on conditioner. Pros Designed to alleviate dryness and inflammation Safe to use on kittens No rinsing required Cons Can be difficult to squeeze out of the bottle 8. Vetoquinol Aloe &; Oatmeal Conditioner for Dogs &; Cats Check Latest Price Volume: 16 oz‚ 1 gal Scent: Coconut Main ingredients: Purified water‚ glycerin‚ aloe vera gel‚ cetearyl alcohol‚ dipalmitoylethyl hydroxyethylmonium methosulfate Vetoquinol Aloe &; Oatmeal Conditioner for Dogs &; Cats works best for cats on topical flea or tick treatment. It’s soap-free and doesn’t interfere with flea and tick treatments. You can just massage it into your cat’s coat after rinsing out shampoo‚ and it can also be used as a leave-in conditioner for cats with dry and itchy skin. All you have to do is use a small amount and work in a thin layer through your cat’s coat while it’s still damp or wet from a bath. While this conditioner does a great job of moisturizing‚ it doesn’t have a consistency that makes detangling hair easier. You can get by working through minor tangles‚ but it doesn’t perform as well as other conditioners designed to detangle the coat. Pros Doesn’t interfere with flea and tick treatments Can be a leave-on conditioner Works to moisturize and alleviate skin irritation Cons Doesn’t detangle coat very well 9. TropiClean Kiwi &; Cocoa Butter Dog &; Cat Conditioner Check Price on Chewy Check Price on Amazon Volume: 20 oz‚ 1 gal‚ 2.5 gal Scent: Kiwi Main ingredients: Purified water‚ conditioner blend‚ colloidal oatmeal‚ hydrolyzed wheat protein‚ cocoa butter TropiClean Kiwi &; Cocoa Butter Dog &; Cat Conditioner does a great job of detangling the coat‚ so it’s a great option for cats with longer hair. The formula doesn’t contain any parabens‚ dyes‚ or soaps. It includes natural ingredients‚ like cocoa butter‚ that help moisturize and nourish the skin and coat. This conditioner also does a great job of deodorizing pet smells. However‚ the fragrance can be a bit overpowering‚ especially if you have allergies or are sensitive to artificial scents. It’s also important to keep in mind that it’s only meant to be used on cats and dogs that are older than 12 weeks old. Pros Helps detangle the coat No parabens‚ dyes‚ or soaps Deodorizes pet smells well Cons Not for kittens under 12 weeks old Scent can be overpowering 10. Stazko Anti-Static &; Dematting Conditioning Dog &; Cat Spray Check Latest Price Volume: 8 oz‚ 32 oz‚ 1 gal Scent: Floral Main ingredients: Deionized water‚ cosmetic amino-modified silicone-polyether copolymer‚ acetamido propyl trimonium chloride‚ glycerin‚ silk protein It’s worth looking into Stazko Anti-Static &; Dematting Conditioning Dog &; Cat Spray if you have a cat that’s particularly resistant to taking baths. This conditioning spray doesn’t really help clean your cat’s skin and coat. However‚ you can use it as a moisturizer‚ and it excels in detangling your cat’s coat. It may also be used to detangle and sort out matted fur. This contains anti-static agents to reduce irritation during dry winter months. It also has a hypoallergenic formula that’s gentle on the skin and safe to use on both kittens and puppies. However‚ it does have a bit of a strong floral fragrance that can feel overpowering if you have fragrance sensitivities or allergies. Pros Good alternative for cats that hate baths Can detangle mats Reduces static Safe for kittens Cons Doesn’t clean the skin and coat Floral fragrance can be overpowering Buyer’s Guide: Choosing The Best Cat Conditioners There are a variety of coat conditioning products‚ and different cats will benefit from different products depending on their individual experiences. It’s easy to get swept up in minor details and marketing gimmicks. So‚ we’ve listed some factors to focus on and consider while shopping for a new cat conditioner. Image Credit: 135pixels‚ Shutterstock Leave-On Conditioner Many cat conditioners can be massaged into your cat’s coat and not be rinsed off. These types of conditioners are convenient because they shorten bath time and can provide deep conditioning and moisturization for your cat. If you choose to use a leave-on conditioner‚ make sure to check the ingredient list for harsh chemicals. This is because it’s likely that your cat will lick their fur‚ and you don’t want them to end up ingesting something harmful. It’s also important to note that some leave-on conditioners may not absorb into the skin and coat very well‚ so they can make your cat’s fur feel greasy or oily. Conditioning Spray Conditioning sprays are ideal for cats with long hair that’s prone to tingling or matting. Many conditioning sprays are specifically formulated to help detangle the coat and strengthen hair. They’re also a good alternative for cats that are highly resistant to baths and getting wet. You can find some conditioning sprays that also work as a deodorizer. Conditioning sprays do have some limitations. The main disadvantage of conditioning sprays is that they usually can’t deeply moisturize your cat’s skin. So‚ if your cat has dry skin or another type of skin issue‚ they may not benefit very much from using a conditioning spray. Hypoallergenic Formula Finding a conditioner that has a hypoallergenic formula is essential for cats with skin issues. Using a high-quality cat conditioner containing gentle and natural ingredients will help soothe any skin irritation and prevent exacerbating itchiness and inflammation. Scented vs Unscented There are pros and cons to using a scented or unscented cat conditioner. Unscented cat conditioners usually have a gentle and hypoallergenic formula. They’re also good for both cats and people with sensitive noses or fragrance allergies. However‚ they don’t tend to be very good with odor control and deodorizing pet smells. In contrast‚ scented cat conditioners are usually formulated to help with odor control‚ and your cat will usually smell nicer for longer. Most scented cat conditioners have a mild scent. However‚ low-quality and cheaply made conditioners will have a strong artificial fragrance that will end up irritating both cats and humans. Conclusion Out of our reviews‚ Hepper Pet Conditioner and Moisturizer is the best cat conditioner because it has a pH-balanced formula that doesn’t irritate the skin‚ and it does an excellent job of revitalizing and softening the skin and coat. Petkin 4-in-1 Vanilla Coconut Scent Dog &; Cat Shampoo &; Conditioner is a great affordable option that also helps boost skin and coat health. Lastly‚ make sure to check out kin+kind Natural Dog and Cat Moisturizer &; Conditioner if you’re really looking to spoil and pamper your precious cat. Featured Image Credit: KDdesignphoto‚ Shutterstock The post 10 Best Cat Conditioners in 2024 – Reviews &; Top Picks by Jessica Kim appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it‚ but all of these articles were assigned‚ contracted and paid for‚ so they aren't considered public domain. However‚ we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article‚ then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

The post 16 Unusual Abyssinian Cat Facts You’ll Be Surprised To Learn by Ashley Bates appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it‚ but all of these articles were assigned‚ contracted and paid for‚ so they aren't considered public domain. However‚ we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article‚ then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com. So‚ an Abyssinian has caught your eye. We can’t blame you! These gorgeous felines are rare and lovely sights to behold. While they remain one of the most popular cat breeds in the United States‚ they’re still relatively uncommon as far as purebred cats go. If you are curious about the breed itself and want to know more‚ we have 16 facts for you. Who knows? You might learn something new today. The 16 Abyssinian Cat Facts 1. Abyssinian Cats Have Unknown Origins What you might not know about the beautiful Abyssinian is that they are one of the oldest cat breeds. The roots of the Abyssinian can be traced back several thousand years. However‚ their true origins are entirely unknown. Some speculate that they could’ve come from the Indian Ocean coast. Others believe that the Abyssinian cat originated in Abyssinia‚ which is present-day Ethiopia. Even though a proper birthplace cannot be agreed upon‚ we do know that the breed is extremely old! 2. Abyssinians Are Actually Tabby Cats What’s that you say? Abyssinians are tabby cats? That is correct. Well‚ it might not look like it. At first glance‚ the Abyssinian actually has a tabby coat. But where are the stripes‚ spots‚ or swirls? The Abyssinian coat is ticked. That means that the entire coat gives the illusion that it is a solid color‚ but you can’t hide the classic M shape on the forehead. Image Credit: EvgenS‚ Shutterstock 3. Abyssinians Have Very Large Ears Abyssinians are known for their large ears and narrow heads. It gives them a very wild appearance. These oversized ears are often seen in certain wildcats as well‚ such as the African Wildcat. 4. Abyssinians Are Known as Clowns of the Cat World The Abyssinian has a very playful‚ silly personality. This behavior often then gets them the reputation of being the clowns of the cat world. These purring‚ playful critters will keep you company and certainly bring a lot of laughs into the home. Image Credit: Anastasija Kru‚ Shutterstock 5. Abyssinians Should Not Be Alone If you’re the kind of person who works all day and has a lot of commitments that keep you out of the home‚ the Abyssinian is likely not ever the right feline choice for your lifestyle. These cats very much enjoy the company of their owners and will not be happy if they are left alone for long periods of time. Your Abyssinian will likely become very bored and might even start being destructive as a consequence. Even though the Abyssinian can do fine with other pets‚ this does not replace the companionship they need from you. 6. Abyssinians Can Easily Be the Only Cat Most felines should have another creature of the same species living in the home. It is essential to provide companionship for these types of animals as most of them require it. However‚ that’s not the case with the Abyssinian! So‚ if you’re looking for a one-cat household‚ the Abyssinian is a sensational choice. They can get on just fine by themselves‚ and they might even be picky about other cats they meet. If you have existing cats‚ an Abyssinian kitten might acclimate very well into a new home‚ but they might have trouble adjusting if they’ve never been around other cats before as adults. Image Credit: Ingus Kruklitis‚ Shutterstock 7. Abyssinians Tend to Get Along Very Well with Dogs Even though an Abyssinian can usually care less if another cat companion is around‚ they tend to get along very well with dogs. Because an Abyssinian shares a lot of the same behavioral traits as a dog‚ it’s no wonder that they can find a friend in a canine. 8. Abyssinians Are Very Healthy Cats Abyssinians usually have very few health issues. This breed was built to be sturdy and strong against illness and injury. However‚ there are certain illnesses that come up in the breed. Some of them include: Luxating patella Hip dysplasia Pyruvate kinase deficiency Kidney disease Gastrointestinal disease Image Credit: Kyselova Inna‚ Shutterstock 9. Abyssinians Are Sometimes Called “Aby-Grabbys” Abyssinians didn’t get this name from nowhere! They are possibly the ones that started all of these stereotypes about cats knocking stuff off counters! These cats will spill just about anything you leave hanging around‚ so remember to put away anything that could harm them if you won’t be directly supervising. 10. Walt Disney Made a Film About Abyssinians The Abyssinian starred in Walt Disney’s “ The Cat from Outer Space.” It was filmed about an Abysinnian space cat that crashed on Earth for a new adventure. The film debuted in 1978. Image Credit: Foonia‚ Shutterstock 11. Abyssinians Are Very Active You need to make sure you’re keeping enough activities around the house to entertain your Abyssinian if you choose to get one. These cats are incredibly inquisitive and action-oriented‚ needing constant stimulation from new and exciting activities. If you have seen any of those cool cat exercise wheels‚ this type of cat is a very good candidate for such an activity. 12. Abyssinians Tend to Be Velcro Cats… Your Abyssinian will be the nosy neighbor‚ following your every move and wondering what you’re up to. You won’t be able to go to the bathroom alone or any other room in the house without being followed. Image Credit: Nataliabiruk‚ Shutterstock 13. …But They Are Also Very Independent! Even though these cats might want to know what you’re up to‚ they also need their space! These cats tend to be very independent and certainly don’t meet the criteria for a lap cat. They would much prefer being on the move‚ seeing what’s going on from room to room. Basically‚ the Abyssinian only needs for you to make sure their few basic needs are met and they are happy campers. 14. Abyssinians Are Structurally Sound If you look at an Abyssinian‚ they have substantial muscle tone. This aids them in being spry‚ athletic‚ and agile. Image Credit: Alla Lla‚ Shutterstock 15. Abyssinians Are Expensive! Not only are Abyssinians rare to find‚ but they’re expensive as well! If you stumble across a breeder‚ you can expect to spend a pretty penny and even be put on a waiting list for available kittens. If you really want an Abyssinian‚ but there are no breeders in your area‚ you might even have to travel. Keep in mind that some rescues have Abyssinians and other purebred cats. You can always check with local facilities to see availability if you want to adopt an adult. 16. Abyssinians Are Small‚ Agile‚ and Lightweight If you’ve only ever seen pictures of an Abyssinian‚ you might think that they’re much larger than they actually are. These cats have long‚ slender physiques that can give a false appearance. These cats are quite small‚ and most adults do not weigh more than 6 to 8 pounds. Image Credit: Natalia Tretiakova‚ Shutterstock Name Suggestions for Abyssinians If you are going to get an Abyssinian and want a name to match their traits‚ we thought up a few great names to consider. Dahy—Agile‚ swift Achira—Very swift Apple—Swift Boaz—Swift Jig—Quick Kansan—Swift Lautaro—Swift hawk Orvadasp—Swift horses Raghu—Swift Sherwin—Swift runner Skeeter—Fast‚ rapid Vela—Swift Aeola –Changeable‚ nimble Alphonso—Quickness‚ nobility Arva—Fastest Busby—Quick movement Dash—Quickness Deanna—Swift and beautiful Ettore—Quickness Fleda—Fast-moving Gatty—Quickness Metro—Quick Lassiter—Quick-witted Conclusion So‚ now you’ve gotten to know the Abyssinian breed a little better. These athletic felines are quite the curious‚ clownish cats‚ making them amazing companions. There are many things about these kitties that make them unique. Did you find anything out about the Abysinnian that fascinated you? Featured Image Credit: Darya Lavinskaya‚ Shutterstock The post 16 Unusual Abyssinian Cat Facts You’ll Be Surprised To Learn by Ashley Bates appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it‚ but all of these articles were assigned‚ contracted and paid for‚ so they aren't considered public domain. However‚ we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article‚ then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

The post How to Put Your Cat on a Diet – 20 Tips to Lose Weight (Vet Answer) by Dr. Rachel Ellison appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it‚ but all of these articles were assigned‚ contracted and paid for‚ so they aren't considered public domain. However‚ we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article‚ then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com. Click to Skip Ahead Why Is Their Weight Important? The Vet’s Role Food and Calories Increase Physical Activity Additional Factors Were you aware that in 2022‚ a whopping 61% of cats were overweight or obese1? While this means that almost two out of every three cats are affected‚ fortunately‚ there are many ways for cat owners to combat this extra body fat. Overall‚ it is known that weight loss can be brought about with the proper diet‚ the correct restriction of calories‚ and physical exercise. In this article‚ we’ll discuss information about weight‚ how an appropriate food/diet plan can be put in place‚ and numerous overall strategies on how to get your cat to lose (or prevent gaining) excess weight. Why Is Their Weight Important? For context‚ a cat is considered to be overweight if they are 10–20% above their ideal body weight‚ while a cat is considered to be obese if they are greater than 20% above their ideal weight. Even if your cat is not overweight currently‚ it is easier to prevent than to treat obesity. Therefore‚ the tips in this article are really for any cat owner‚ whether they have an overweight cat or not! Just as with humans‚ weight is an important part of the puzzle in a cat’s overall health. In fact‚ it has been shown that overweight pets have a higher risk of various disease associations. This excess weight can cause‚ or if already present‚ exacerbate medical health issues such as diabetes‚ osteoarthritis‚ renal disease‚ some types of cancer‚ etc. Furthermore‚ the hormones that are given off by extra fat tissue have been found to keep the body in a long-term state of inflammation2. In addition‚ extra weight can simultaneously shorten a cat’s life span and cause them to have a decreased quality of life. Image Credit: Zhuravleb Andrey‚ Shutterstock The Veterinarian’s Role A weight-reduction plan should be evaluated and carried out under the direction of a veterinarian. In addition to obtaining an accurate body weight and a thorough history coupled with a physical exam‚ they may utilize lab work to rule out the occasional medical cause of weight gain. Furthermore‚ they can counsel you on your individual cat’s ideal body weight and how to determine your cat’s body condition score (BCS) and muscle condition scoring (MCS). A BCS determines a pet’s body fat; this is done by feeling for fat across the ribs‚ looking at fat distribution from above‚ and looking at fat distribution from the sides to determine an overall score. The score can be based on either a 5-point or 9-point scale. For the 1–5 point scale‚ a 1 is an emaciated cat and a 5 is an obese cat‚ with a 3 being an ideal body weight. On the 1–9 point scale‚ a 1 is also emaciated‚ a 9 signifies obesity‚ and for cats‚ a 5 is ideal. An MCS determines muscle mass and includes visual examination and palpation along the body at specific points to determine if muscle wasting is present in mild‚ moderate‚ or marked amounts. Furthermore‚ your cat’s vet can teach you how to read pet food/treat nutrition labels and calculate nutrition requirements correctly. This information can be used to calculate how many calories your cat is actually eating. Other nutritional calculations such as resting energy requirements (RER) and maintenance energy requirements (MER) are used by veterinarians to help determine how many calories your cat should be eating to lose weight safely over time. If a cat loses too much weight too quickly or stops eating suddenly‚ there can be medical problems‚ such as hepatic lipidosis (also known as fatty liver syndrome) which can be life-threatening. As a reference‚ a cat should have 24–35 calories per pound per day; but your veterinarian can help calculate a good starting point given your cat’s factors3. In addition‚ a good and safe reference range of a cat’s body weight loss per week is 0.5–2.0%4. Veterinarians can come up with a specific feeding plan that allots out the amount/caloric density of food (and potentially some small allotment for treats) for your cat to lose weight based on several of the above-mentioned factors. This plan will consider your cat’s ideal body weight‚ their BCS‚ MCS‚ total calories being consumed currently‚ RER and MER calculations as well as your cat’s stage of life‚ any concurrent diseases‚ their lifestyle and activity levels‚ etc. The 20 Tips to Lose Weight Food and Calories Image Credit: Prystai‚ Shutterstock 1. Measure it Out Use an actual level measuring cup (or even better and more accurate‚ a kitchen weight scale!) to find out exactly how much you are feeding your cat. This is the first step to understanding and becoming aware of where you’re starting‚ and going forward‚ to accurately control the amount of food (and calories). 2. Label Information Obtain all the nutrition/label information from your sources of food‚ treats‚ food used to give medicine‚ homemade diets‚ table scraps‚ etc. This label information may be on the bag in question‚ or you may need to research or contact the manufacturer‚ etc. This step can help you determine where all the calories for your cat are coming from and help your veterinarian in nutritional calculations. 3. Quality Food Feed a good‚ quality food. A diet change may or may not be needed. There are even prescription diet cat foods that may be an option for your cat. Discuss with your cat’s veterinarian any specific diet recommendations and diet transition instructions. 4. Overfeeding Do not allow free feeding (always having food available in the bowl). One of the biggest human-related factors to a cat being overweight is overfeeding5. This is very common‚ and many pet owners do this unknowingly‚ but our eyes are bigger than their stomachs. Remember‚ if a cat has free access to food‚ this is like having a buffet available all the time! Image Credit: adogslifephoto‚ Thinkstock. 5. Communication Make sure everyone in the household who could be taking care of the cat is on the same page. Communication is important! Some tips to prevent doubling up food on accident could include a check-off system or to pre-measure out and label bags of food/treats for each day of the week. 6. Reduce Treats Reduce calories given from treats to less than 10% of a cat’s daily allotted calories (as long as they are being given a full and complete diet)6. Alternatively‚ you could instead give rewards with attention‚ special or favorite toys‚ catnip‚ brushing‚ etc. 7. Remove Human Food Remove human food or table scraps from the cat’s diet. This is not only unhealthy for your cat but is easy to overload‚ giving excess calories even with small amounts of food. If you’re only allotted around 200–300 calories per day‚ even a small square of cheese can add up! Image Credit: Ground Picture‚ Shutterstock 8. Automated Feeders Automated‚ timed feeders that dispense a pre-measured amount may be helpful for some so a cat does not associate their owner with feeding them. In multi-cat households there may need to be some oversight with this so that separation still occurs. Some feeders even utilize a sensor collar that will only open when the cat in question is within range and then close off the food if the cat moves away. 9. Splitting Meals Try splitting the allotted meals up in differing amounts or at different times. For example‚ if your cat begs for food overnight‚ try giving a smaller meal in the morning and a larger meal at night. If you feed your cat once or twice a day and the cat begs for food between meals‚ try dividing out the specified total calories into 3 or 4 smaller meals. 10. Supervision In a multi-cat household‚ it is essential to ensure that each cat is only eating the food allotted to them. With more than one cat‚ there can also be competition or resource guarding for food. This could be remedied by physically separating them during their mealtimes (such as in a different room behind a closed door‚ a tall baby gate‚ etc.) or as mentioned above‚ a cat feeder with a sensor collar. Increasing Physical Activity Image Credit: New Africa‚ Shutterstock 11. Make Them Work Make your cat work for their food. Move their meals around regularly to areas that they don’t normally frequent‚ so they have to go far away from their usual hangouts and ‘hunt’ for their meal. 12. Cat Tree A cat tree or using vertical space to jump up to get to their meal can also give some additional physical activity. 13. Toys Because cats have such a predatory instinct‚ they may find toys such as play mice‚ feathers‚ teaser wands‚ or laser pointers enticing. Provide a variety of toys but rotate them to discourage boredom. Image Credit: Christian Bodhi‚ Pixabay 14. Obstacle Course A homemade obstacle course‚ especially with catnip or an allotted small treat as encouragement‚ can incentivize even more movement! 15. Outside Time Trying a harness and leash walk outside may be a physical activity that some cats enjoy. 16. Exercise Wheel A cat exercise wheel that allows for walking or running may be worth looking into for some inquisitive cats. Additional Factors Image Credit: Chendongshan‚ Shutterstock 17. Scatter Their Food You could try tossing your cat’s food kibbles out and around so they have to chase it and expend some energy to get their meal! 18. Food Dispensing Toys A food and exercise combination tip is to use food-dispensing balls or toys. These are fabulous in that the cat must use both their mind and body. And‚ once a cat knows how to reliably use it‚ you could put a portion (or all of) the cat’s allotted calories to keep them working. It’s a win-win-win. 19. Routine Weigh-ins How do you know if your cat is making progress? Routine weigh-ins and recheck visits. A baby scale (at home and/or at the veterinary clinic) can be a helpful tool in this regard. Monitoring for progress as well as any needed changes is key. Image Credit: Koldunov Alexey‚ Shutterstock 20. Environmental Enrichment In one study‚ overweight cats on a restricted diet with increased environmental enrichment had activity collars and were found to have more activity than overweight cats with the same feeding instructions without the increased enrichment. You may consider this and include window perches‚ bird feeders outside a window‚ scratching posts‚ etc. to help provide overall good mental well-being for your cat. Conclusion A cat’s weight loss plan typically needs a multifaceted approach to solve (or prevent) this common problem. As your cat’s vet is your furry family member’s biggest advocate‚ they will use science and medicine in creating your cat’s best-individualized weight loss (or maintenance) plan. As your cat’s owner‚ you will be responsible for carrying out the plan daily to ensure the best result for your pet. It’s helpful to know that both you and your cat’s veterinarian are essential partners in your cat’s weight loss journey and that your cat will be able to live their best life because of your teamwork! Sources https://www.petobesityprevention.org/state-of-pet-obesity-report https://www.aaha.org/globalassets/02-guidelines/weight-management/2014-AAHA-Weight-Management-Guidelines-for-Dogs-and-Cats https://www.aaha.org/globalassets/02-guidelines/weight-management/2014-AAHA-Weight-Management-Guidelines-for-Dogs-and-Cats https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1098612X12444999?url_ver=Z39.88-2003&;rfr_id=ori:rid:crossref.org&;rfr_dat=cr_pub%20%200pubmed https://www.aaha.org/globalassets/02-guidelines/2021-nutrition-and-weight-management/resourcepdfs/new-2021-aaha-nutrition-and-weight-management-guidelines-with-ref.pdf https://thevillagevets.com/blog/tips-for-helping-my-cat-lose-weight/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7337193/ https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/obesity https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/obesity-in-cats https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/creating-a-weight-reduction-plan-for-cats https://www.preventivevet.com/cats/recognizing-and-helping-overweight-and-obese-cats https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&;id=10160836   Featured Image Credit: Daisy Daisy‚ Shutterstock The post How to Put Your Cat on a Diet – 20 Tips to Lose Weight (Vet Answer) by Dr. Rachel Ellison appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it‚ but all of these articles were assigned‚ contracted and paid for‚ so they aren't considered public domain. However‚ we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article‚ then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

The post How to Weigh Your Cat: 5 Vet-Approved Steps by Jessica Kim appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it‚ but all of these articles were assigned‚ contracted and paid for‚ so they aren't considered public domain. However‚ we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article‚ then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com. Though it may not be considered a necessary part of caring for cats‚ there are significant benefits to weighing your cat. Since cats can’t use words to tell us if they’re feeling sick‚ cat owners must be observant and look for potential warning signs of illness. A cat’s weight and the rate of weight gain and loss can tell you a lot about a cat’s well-being and overall quality of life. For example‚ keeping track of a cat’s weight can ensure healthy weight loss for overweight cats or raise flags for underlying diseases that impact a cat’s weight. Fortunately‚ weighing a cat is a straightforward process. Here are a few ways you can start weighing your cat and keeping track of their weight. Before You Start There are a few ways you can measure your cat’s weight. You can certainly place your cat on a pet scale and measure their weight‚ but this can be difficult if your cat doesn’t like to stay still. For this reason‚ many people opt to hold their cat and use a human scale to record their cat’s weight. If you choose this method‚ make sure that your cat’s already comfortable with being picked up and held. 1. Measure Your Own Weight First‚ start by measuring your own weight. Check to ensure that your scale is on an even surface before stepping onto the scale. Record your weight‚ and make sure to write down the precise tenth of a pound. Since cats are much smaller and lighter than people‚ it’s worth paying attention to fluctuations that are less than a pound. Measure your weight one or two more times to ensure your scale is giving accurate and consistent readings. Image Credit: Andrey_Popov‚ Shutterstock 2. Pick Up Your Cat and Measure Combined Weight Next‚ gently pick up and hold your cat. Then‚ step on the scale again and record your combined weight. You can do this a couple of times to ensure you’re getting consistent readings from your scale. 3. Subtract Your Body Weight from Your Combined Weight Next‚ subtract your body weight from your combined weight. The remainder is your cat’s weight. For example‚ if your body weight is 150.5 pounds‚ and your combined weight with your cat is 157.2 pounds‚ your cat’s weight is 6.7 pounds. Write down your cat’s weight in a log. You can measure your cat’s weight once a week at the most‚ and it’s recommended to measure your cat at least once a month if they’re on a weight loss plan. Keeping a log will help you to notice patterns of weight loss or weight gain much more quickly. Image Credit: Lightspruch‚ Shutterstock 4. Use a Carrier if Your Cat Doesn’t Like Being Held If your cat doesn’t sit still on a pet scale or really doesn’t like being held‚ you can try using a carrier to hold your cat while they’re being weighed. If you choose this method‚ it’s best to use a hanging scale for the most accurate measurements. Hang the empty carrier on the scale’s hook and record its weight measurement. Then‚ place your cat inside and weigh the carrier again. Subtract the weight of the empty carrier from the combined weight of the carrier and your cat. The remainder will be your cat’s weight. 5. Make Sure to Reward Your Cat Give your cat plenty of praise immediately after you measure their weight‚ every time. If they’re not needing to lose weight‚ give them a couple of their favorite treats‚ too. Rewarding your cat will eventually build a positive association with weigh-ins‚ and it’ll make this process much easier for both of you. Image Credit: Nikola Cedikova‚ Shutterstock Benefits of Weighing Your Cat Your cat’s weight and weight fluctuations can tell you a lot about your cat. First‚ keeping track of your cat’s weight can help you determine if your cat’s eating too little or too much food. Cats can also start to lose weight due to other health issues that are unrelated to not eating enough. Weight loss can be a sign of a greater underlying medical issue. Intestinal parasites‚ diabetes‚ hyperthyroidism‚ cancer‚ heart disease and kidney disease can all cause weight loss in cats. Recording your cat’s weight can help you detect potential health issues more quickly. Significant or rapid weight gain can put your cat at high risk of developing health issues‚ and it’s fairly common for indoor cats to become overweight. Nearly 60% of pet cats are overweight. Feline obesity can lower a cat’s quality of life significantly. It can shorten their life expectancy‚ and obese cats often have mobility issues that make it difficult for them to move around independently. Obesity increases the risk of cancer‚ diabetes‚ heart disease‚ and urinary bladder stones. It is also thought to weaken a cat’s ability to fight off infectious diseases. Regularly weighing an overweight cat ensures that they’re losing weight at a healthy rate. In general‚ cats on weight loss plans should lose between 1-2% of their body weight every week. Anything more can be dangerous‚ and rapid weight loss of a previously obese cat can lead to a serious liver condition called hepatic lipidosis. Conclusion Weighing your cat regularly can give you peace of mind in knowing that your cat has healthy eating habits. Since weight loss and weight gain are often indicators of certain illnesses‚ weighing your cat can also help you detect health issues much more quickly. There are several different methods for weighing cats. Once you find one that works‚ stick to it‚ and make sure to reward your cat after every weigh-in. Adding weigh-ins to your cat’s care routine is a simple way to keep your cat’s health in check‚ and it will help you respond more quickly to any potential health issues. Sources https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/creating-a-weight-reduction-plan-for-cats https://www.petmd.com/cat/conditions/digestive/c_ct_Weight_Loss_and_Cachexia https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/obesity-in-cats#:~:text=Obese%20cats%20develop%20an%20increased‚Heart%20disease%20and%20hypertension https://www.msdvetmanual.com/digestive-system/hepatic-diseases-of-small-animals/feline-hepatic-lipidosis   Featured Image Credit: svf74‚ Shutterstock The post How to Weigh Your Cat: 5 Vet-Approved Steps by Jessica Kim appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it‚ but all of these articles were assigned‚ contracted and paid for‚ so they aren't considered public domain. However‚ we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article‚ then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Some items will change the way you approach a survival game and will increase your survival chances. And then there is Goo. Great. Here is how to get Goo in Enshrouded. Enshrouded: How to get Goo While you might not use this to shower unsuspecting nominees for teenager-themed awards‚ getting Goo in Enshrouded is necessary to upgrade your Flame Altar from level 3 to level 4. This is extremely important because it will open up the places you can visit and how many Flame Altars you can build‚ among other benefits. However‚ before you can get it‚ besides already having your Flame Altar at level 3‚ you need to unlock the Alchemist and the Alchemist Mortar. This is only the first step toward getting Goo in Enshrouded. Image: PC Invasion If you interact with the Alchemist as soon as you get the Mortar‚ you will notice immediately that there is no Goo option in the crafting menu to select. There’s no glitch here. Crafting recipes will unlock once your character discovers thei...