If you’re the type of pet parent that loves putting your dog in fun, stylish clothes, there are many stores in Atlanta you can visit find just what you’re looking for.

There are many places you can buy dog clothes in Atlanta. Some stores, like Park Pet Supply and PetSmart, sell clothing and apparel alongside dog food and other supplies. Others, like Bark Fifth Avenue, focus more so on grooming and providing pet owners with stylish clothing, like sparkly collars and cute dresses. There are also many online stores that provide personalized options for dogs. Certain clothing, like raincoats and winter jackets, are practical and cute. Others, like ill-fitting garments, are inadvisable to dress your dog in.

When you need help caring for your canine pal, call the Atlanta dog sitters at Critter Sitters at (404) 793-6178.

Best Places to Buy Dog Clothes in Atlanta

If you love dressing up your dog in cute outfits, there are a few stores in the Atlanta area that can help you fill out its wardrobe. Our Atlanta dog walkers and sitters have comprised a list of some of the best places to buy dog clothes, from practical garments to chic ensembles.

Park Pet Supply

Located in Atlanta East Village, Park Pet Supply is a one-stop shop for all your pet-related needs. With funky accessories, like sunglasses, and cute apparel, like raincoats, fuzzy jackets, and knit sweaters, your dog can be stylish and comfortable after a trip to this store. Park Pet Supply doesn’t just care about dressing your dog, but also focuses on feeding it nutritious and organic foods. This store also offers grooming services, so your dog can leave with a haircut and a new outfit.

Bark Fifth Avenue

If your dog enjoys the finer things in life, Bark Fifth Avenue might be its new favorite store. A pet boutique for the most stylish of dogs, Bark Fifth Avenue sells chic collars, bedazzled bows, and couture-inspired dresses for dogs looking to make an impression. For your dog’s more casual days, Bark Fifth Avenue also sells cute t-shirts for your canine to relax in. If you want to pick yourself up a treat while shopping for your dog, you can buy matching charms for you and your pet, one for your purse and one for its collar.

Inman Park Pet Works

On Austin Avenue in Atlanta, Inman Park Pet Works is a pet supply store and grooming service all rolled into one. In addition to wool, leather, and cotton coats, Inman Park Pet Works also sells sweaters and hoodies your dog can wear on cooler days. There’s no shortage of t-shirts available, as well as practical and stylish accessories, including sandals, boots, sunglasses, and even scarves.

The Paw Stand

The Paw Stand approaches dog clothing from a bit more of a practical standpoint. Here, you won’t find stylish clothes to outfit your pup. Instead, you’ll find life vests for dogs that love swimming and harnesses for dogs that need more training while walking. The Paw Stand also sells yummy dog food and offers grooming, rehab, and fitness services for canines.

PetSmart

There are several PetSmart stores in Atlanta. While going to a chain store versus a small business might result in less variety regarding your dog’s clothes, you’re guaranteed to find cute and practical doggy accessories and garments at PetSmart. Prices might be more affordable too, which can be good news for dog owners with a strict wardrobe budget for their furry friends.

Online Stores

If shopping in person isn’t your thing and you would rather browse online, that’s certainly an option. There are countless online shops and boutiques that specialize in dog clothes. You can get garments made to your dog’s specific size requirements. Shopping online also provides the opportunity for personalization. You can even get matching clothes for you and your pup by shopping for dog clothes online.

Dog Clothes You Should and Shouldn’t Buy in Atlanta

Not all dog clothes are particularly safe or necessary. Having fun with your dog’s wardrobe is one thing, but overdoing it and dressing it in hazardous garments isn’t wise.

Raincoats

Although it doesn’t rain too much in Atlanta, having a raincoat for your dog can save you a world of trouble. Raincoats protect dogs from getting too wet during walks, meaning you won’t have to deal with that wet dog smell upon your return home. Be sure to get a raincoat that fits your dog well and isn’t too loose or too tight. The raincoat you buy for your canine should be easy to get it off and on, too.

Ill-Fitting Clothes

Any doggy garment that’s too tight is a no-go. If your dog grows out of its favorite t-shirt, buy another one in a larger size instead of forcing it to fit. When dog clothes are too tight, they can cut off circulation and cause difficulty breathing. Clothes that are too large can also present hazards, as dogs can get stuck on furniture or trip over themselves.

Winter Jackets

While truly cold days in Atlanta are rare, they do happen. If you have a small dog or one with a short coat, it might have a hard time staying warm during winter walks. You can get a winter coat for your pup to make your dog more comfortable outside. Make sure it’s not too warm so that your dog doesn’t overheat.

Low-Quality Materials

Just like humans, clothes made of low-quality materials can irritate dogs’ skin. Those include polyester, nylon, and other synthetic fabrics. In most cases, going with clothes made from 100% cotton is the best bet. Just monitor your pet for any skin issues if you dress it up in clothing.

Find a Dog Walker in Atlanta Today

Call (404) 793-6178 to learn more about the Atlanta dog walkers and sitters at Critter Sitters today.

If you’re concerned that your pet cat isn’t getting the nutrients it needs to live a healthy life, you can take control over its diet and start making food at home. While you’re at it, consider the benefits of introducing probiotic-rich meals into your cat’s diet.

You can make your own probiotic-dense foods for your cat, all in the comfort of your own home. Small snacks of blueberries and honey can help with gut health, as can the introduction of fermented foods and kefir dairy products, which are lactose-free. While making probiotic foods at home gives you more control, supplements that are specifically designed to give your cat a healthy dose of probiotics can also help. Before giving your cat additional probiotics, speak with your vet about introducing them into your pet’s diet. This helpful kind of bacteria can strengthen your cat’s gut and provide additional health benefits.

When you’re unable to be there to take care of your friendly feline, reach out to the experienced cat sitters at Critter Sitters by calling us at (404) 793-6178.

Making Probiotics for Your Cat at Home

Giving your cat a diet that’s rich in probiotics can greatly help its intestinal health. While purchasing probiotic blends or supplements is certainly an option, some cat owners want to take a more natural route and make their own probiotic concoctions for their felines at home.

Let’s start with the simplest recipes to give your cat a healthy dose of probiotics. Blueberries are rich in prebiotics, which probiotics feed on. Dipping a few blueberries in honey can result in the perfect combination of prebiotics and probiotics to give your cat’s gut the healthy boost it needs. Only do this in moderation, as too many blueberries or too much honey might cause discomfort of the stomach for your feline friend.

If you own a cat, you probably already know that it’s lactose intolerant. So, giving your cat any dairy-heavy foods with probiotics, namely yogurt, is not a good idea. However, lactose-free options, like kefir milk, are rich in probiotics and safe for your cat to ingest. You can mix kefir milk into your cat’s wet food or put a splash into their water bowl every now and then to ensure a healthy gut.

You can also take on the project of fermenting foods like carrots, beets, or kale. These foods are nutrient-dense in and of themselves and become full of probiotics when fermented. Talk to your vet if you have any reservations about making probiotic-dense food recipes for your cat at home.

Should You Make or Purchase Probiotic Foods for Your Cat?

It is a big responsibility to make your cat’s food, whether or not your goal is to incorporate probiotics into its diet. If you aren’t sure whether to make or buy probiotic blends, the experienced Rosewell cat sitters at Critter Sitters can give you some guidance.

You can certainly make probiotic blends for your cat at home. There are few risks to doing this, so long as the food you’re feeding your cat is safe for felines. Many human foods are safe to a certain degree, although anything in excess can cause stomach issues for cats, regardless of its probiotic content.

There is also the option of purchasing probiotic blends or supplements. There are lots of different types of probiotic products available for purchase, many with a focus on giving your cat the bacteria it needs for a healthy gut. Unfortunately, some powders or supplements contain unnecessary ingredients, and you can’t always be sure if a probiotic blend made outside your home is safe.

Your veterinarian can point you in the direction of pre-made probiotic options for felines. Some cat foods come packed with probiotics to alleviate any additional difficulties of adding probiotics to a cat’s diet. Making probiotic-rich foods for your cat at home gives you greater control over what your feline friend is eating.

Tips on Feeding Your Cat Homemade Probiotics

If you’re introducing probiotic-rich foods into your cat’s diet, there are a few tips you should be aware of. The first is to monitor your cat. Pet parents should also be aware of not to overdoing it when it comes to probiotics.

If you’re planning on purchasing probiotic supplements, you may be able to give one dose to your cat daily. Once again, check with your vet to make sure a daily dose of probiotics is safe and aligns with your specific pet’s health needs.

Giving your cat too many probiotics, whether in homemade foods or purchased blends, could cause constipation or diarrhea. That’s why it is best to start adding probiotics to your cat’s diet slowly and to monitor it for possible changes to its daily routine and overall health. When making your own probiotic food for your cat, confirm with your vet that the foods you’re feeding it are safe for felines.

Why Are Probiotics for Cats Important?

Probiotics support gut and intestinal health for cats, just as they do for humans. Adding probiotics to your cat’s diet can greatly improve its overall wellness, especially as it ages.

Having a strong and healthy gut is crucial for all living beings. Whether or not your cat has pressing intestinal or gut issues, probiotics are an important aspect of its diet. They promote digestion and absorption of nutrients and can help cats with upset stomachs get back on track.

Probiotics are especially important for senior cats, as these felines might be more likely to develop digestion issues as they age. Adding probiotics to your cat’s diet can help it rebound from intestinal illnesses or other stomach issues it might be dealing with and prevent similar discomforts from reoccurring. Probiotics are good kind of bacteria that fight against bad bacteria in the body, enabling cats to live healthier lives.

Call Our Cat Sitters Today

Call the Atlanta cat sitters at Critter Sitters at (404) 793-6178 when you need a helping hand to look after your pet.

If you’re looking to invest in an invisible dog fence, where should you purchase it from? We’ve done the research so that you can learn where to buy an invisible dog fence to keep your pup safe in Atlanta.

There are a few businesses in Atlanta that specialize in in-ground invisible dog fences. Those include Atlanta Dog Guard and Atlanta Pet Stop, among others. There are also above-ground options, which can be purchased from places like PetSmart and Home Depot. In most cases, in-ground invisible dog fences last longer and are more reliable than above-ground options. That said, in-ground fences tend to be more expensive and may cost more than $1,000. Keeping the cost in mind, invisible dog fences are often worth it, especially if you have a large property and want your pet to be able to enjoy the great outdoors unleashed.

For help taking care of your furry friend in a pinch, call the Atlanta dog walkers and sitters at Critter Sitters today at (404) 793-6178.

Where Can I Buy an Invisible Dog Fence in Atlanta?

There are lots of pet stores in Atlanta that sell invisible dog fences. These devices are used to deter your dog from leaving your property, allowing it to enjoy the outdoors without being leashed or chaperoned. To make things easier for you, our Atlanta dog walkers and sitters have compiled a list of some nearby businesses where you can buy an invisible dog fence.

In-Ground Fences

One of the top places to buy an invisible dog fence near Atlanta is Atlanta Dog Guard. Based out of a suburb of Atlanta, Sandy Springs, Atlanta Dog Guard’s main focus is providing owners with invisible fences. These fences work by placing wires underground that send a radio signal that keeps your dog on your property. Your dog will wear a sensor that gets the signal and emits a slight shock that conditions your dog to keep at bay.

Atlanta Pet Stop also focuses solely on invisible dog fences. In addition to installing their fences, Atlanta Pet Stop provides some advice on how to best train your pet to stay on your property. Similar to Atlanta Dog Guard’s technology, Pet Stop uses digital modulation frequencies that can have a broader range and be more reliable than other invisible dog fences. Owners can call Pet Stop to get a quote for the cost of installing an invisible dog fence on their property.

Above-Ground Fences

PetSmart has several locations in Atlanta that sell invisible dog fences. Buying an invisible dog fence from PetSmart and not a company that specializes in this technology means installation is on you, the owner. Instead of digging underground to set up your invisible dog fence from PetSmart, you’ll simply turn on the base unit. Typically, these types of invisible dog fences are less reliable than their in-ground counterparts but are certainly an option if you have a small outdoor area or don’t want to spend lots of money on an invisible dog fence.

Similar invisible dog fences are available from other pet stores in the area, including businesses you wouldn’t normally associate with pets, like Home Depot. You can also buy an above-ground invisible dog fence online.

How Much Do Invisible Dog Fences Cost in Atlanta?

Invisible dog fences don’t come cheap. But if you want to keep your dog safe and provide them with ample time outdoors without worry, investing in one might be a good decision for you.

Costs of invisible dog fences vary. Usually, above-ground devices range from two to three-hundred dollars. In-ground dog fences tend to be more expensive as the installation process is much more involved. In-ground invisible dog fences are also generally more reliable and can cover more ground. In-ground invisible dog fences typically cost over $1,000 to buy and install. Because of the sizable price tag associated with invisible dog fences, it’s important to research and purchases an effective and humane product.

When you want to enclose larger areas, the cost of your invisible dog fence will most likely increase. That said, buying one can give you peace of mind, especially if you have a large property you want your dog to enjoy.

Is it Worth it to Buy an Invisible Dog Fence in Atlanta?

If you want your dog to be able to spend time outside without watching it too closely, buying an invisible dog fence might be worth it. This is especially true for dog owners in Atlanta, which has some of the strictest dog ownership laws.

In Atlanta, dogs must be leashed any time they are on public property. This includes the road outside of your house. You might get a citation if you don’t have an invisible dog fence and your pup ventures off your lawn and onto the street.

Any time your dog is outside unleashed, you run the risk of it getting scared, running off, and getting hurt. Dogs might get spooked and dart away, leading to them getting lost or turned around. Canines might even get injured by cars speeding down the street or other animals if they leave an owner’s property.

An invisible dog fence can keep your pet safe and make your neighbors feel more comfortable. When you install an invisible dog fence, provide signage that alerts passersby to the fact that you have a mechanism in place to keep your dog on your property.

The bottom line is that it’s worth it for many people to get an invisible dog fence. Getting ample exercise and being able to enjoy the outdoors can keep dogs healthy and happy. If you have an invisible dog fence, your dog can do just that while staying safe, which is the most important thing of all.

Get Help from Our Atlanta Dog Walkers Today

For reliable care when you need it most, call the Roswell dog walkers at Critter Sitters today at (404) 793-6178.

If you have a cat, it’s necessary to know what it needs to feel loved and safe. Usually, this means spending as much time as you can with your cat each day.

You should spend as much time as possible with your cat during the day. At the least, give your cat about an hour of your undivided attention daily to remind it that you love it. Many people are gone for hours during the day because of work. When you get home, be near your cat in any way you can, even if it’s just when doing household work. If you don’t prioritize spending time with your pet, it might become withdrawn or feel rejected. To prevent these feelings of sadness or isolation when you’re gone for long periods, enlist help from our cat sitters, who can spend time with your feline friend when you cannot.

For trustworthy care when you can’t be there, call the Atlanta cat sitters at Critter Sitters today at (404) 793-6178.

How Much Time Should I Spend with My Cat Daily?

Although cats give off the sense of being solitary creatures, uninterested in the activities of humans, they love their owners and miss them when they’re gone. When you’ve adopted an animal to bring into your home, it’s important to spend time with it each day so that it feels loved and safe.

Most of the time that you are hanging out with your cat, it happens organically. On weekends, you might cuddle up with one another to drink your coffee. On weekday nights, your cat might sit on your lap as you unwind while watching TV. Even while doing daily tasks, like washing the dishes or folding laundry, your cat is undoubtedly nearby. All of these examples count as time spent with your cat. But sometimes that’s not enough.

In addition to the time you spend just being near one another, be sure to implement daily moments of intentional play or companionship. For example, about 20 to 60 solid minutes of playing with your cat using its favorite toys should be a daily practice. Remember, your cat wants to feel loved, so giving it your undivided attention at some point each day is a healthy practice. It keeps the two of you connected and in tune with one another, which is the most important thing.

As long as you spend time with your cat when you’re home and engage in intentional play on a daily basis, your feline should be happy and content. If you’re worried you’re not giving your cat the attention it needs, make a change and reorganize your schedule as much as you can to ensure your cat feels loved and appreciated.

What if I Spend a Lot of Time Away from My Cat Per Day?

It’s inevitable that when you have a job, social plans, and other obligations, you will spend some time away from your cat. If you’re gone for the majority of the day, prioritize spending time with your feline friend whenever you’re home.

Not everyone has the luxury of working from home and spending the entire day with their pet. Many pet owners are out of the house from morning to night, meaning their cats are home alone. This isn’t a huge problem for cats, who sleep most of the day. That said, your cat will notice you’re gone and will most likely miss your presence.

If you spend a lot of time away from your cat on a daily basis, prioritize time together when you’re home. Play together and give your cat lots of love. If you’re gone for days or weeks at a time, call in our Alpharetta cat sitters to give your feline the affection and attention it needs. Don’t underestimate the human connection that domesticated cats crave from their owners.

Try your best not to spend too much time away from your cat. When you get a pet, you commit to making it a big priority in your life and should anticipate that having a cat might impact your ability to be gone from the house for long stretches of time.

Will Spending Time Away from My Cat During the Day Affect its Happiness?

When busy people want a pet companion, they often turn to cats. There’s this idea out there that cats don’t require the same attention as dogs, which isn’t true. Your cat still loves you and wants to be around you, meaning spending too much time away from your cat might impact its happiness.

When cats get used to being around their owners, and their owners are suddenly gone for entire days, they might become depressed or anxious. Cats are not immune to these feelings despite their aloof reputations. When cats are left alone too frequently and for long periods, they might feel sad, confused, and abandoned. This can lead to cats eating less or becoming less interested in the activities they once enjoyed.

If you’ve noticed that your cat has become increasingly clingy as you’ve spent more time out of the house or that it has withdrawn considerably, start prioritizing time together. It’s important to show your feline friend you are a reliable source of love, food, and attention. If you don’t, your cat might feel lonely and have difficulty trusting or connecting with you.

It’s also important not to reject your cat’s expressions of love. If your feline approaches you and wants to be petted or curl up on your lap, don’t ignore it just because you’ve had a bad day or are busy doing something else. This can make your cat feel rejected or unloved, leading to it withdrawing from you, which is never good.

Let Our Cat Sitters Spend Time with Your Pet When You Can’t

If you’re going out of town, call Critter Sitters at (404) 793-6178 so that our Rosewell cat sitters can watch over your feline friend.

Although your cat might still act like a kitten, it’s growing up. As it ages, it’s important to consider its new dietary needs. Usually, this means switching your feline’s meals from kitten to cat food.

While all felines are different, the average age to switch from kitten food to adult cat food is about one year. While that’s a general guideline, speak to your vet for confirmation. Changing food can be an adjustment for cats, so start the process slowly and provide lots of encouragement. If your cat doesn’t like its new food, try another brand and visit your vet to make sure its new meals aren’t causing digestion or stomach issues. Switching the types of foods your cat eats as it ages is necessary to give your feline the nutrients it needs to stay healthy.

When you can’t be there to look after your furry friend, reach out to the cat sitters at Critter Sitters by calling us at (404) 793-6178.

At What Age Should I Switch from Kitten Food to Cat Food?

Transitioning from only tiny cans of wet food to more robust meals is a rite of passage for any maturing cat. As an owner, you want to know when the right time is to make this change and begin introducing your feline friend to a new menu. In general, cats can make this transition at around one year old.

Once your cat has reached its first birthday, talk to your vet about switching it from kitten food to adult cat food. Doing so will decrease your feeding responsibilities (you can leave dry food out for much longer and in larger quantities) and provide your pet with the nutrients it needs as it ages.

As the cat sitters at Critter Sitters know, not all felines are the same. Depending on your kitten’s size and breed, your vet might advise you to make the switch to cat food as early as ten months. For other cats, the change in diet should happen a bit later in their lives. The right time for your cat will be based on your cat’s exact dietary and nutritional needs. That said, the typical benchmark for this transition is about one year old.

What if My Cat Isn’t Adjusting to its New Food?

Lots of animals are suspicious of change. If your cat has been eating the same type of food for its whole life, and now something else is in its bowl, its appetite might decrease. If it appears as though your aging kitten isn’t adjusting well to its new cat food, there are a few helpful tips you can incorporate into mealtimes to make the transition smoother.

Start Slow

When presenting your cat with a new type of meal, start slowly. The introduction process is typically more successful when owners spread it out over a week or so. Begin by incorporating your cat’s new delicacy into its old food. Mixing foods together can help your feline get accustomed to new tastes and textures. Don’t spring something totally new on your cat, as doing so might cause it to turn up its button nose and skip meal time. If life takes you away from your pet during this transition, our Roswell cat sitters can whip up your pre-determined recipe for your cat to enjoy.

Provide Encouragement

Even though your kitten’s new adult cat food might be tailor-made with the nutrients it needs to grow into a strong, healthy feline, it might be confusing for your pet. So, provide your cat with the encouragement it needs. This might include rewarding your cat for eating its new food with a treat or some playtime. Don’t pressure your cat, either. Some felines are a bit territorial when it comes to food, and you don’t want to push yours away. So, reward the good eating behavior and give your cat time to sniff out its new food.

Try Something Else

Not all adult cat food is equally tasty to cats. If your kitten isn’t adjusting well to its new food, it might be because it simply doesn’t like it. The transition might upset its stomach, making it wary of eating anything at all. If you’re noticing digestion issues or poor eating habits, take your cat to the vet right away. Then, try another brand, different flavors, or more nutritious ingredients. It’s important to give your cat food it actually enjoys eating.

Why Should I Switch from Kitten Food to Cat Food?

Switching from kitten food to cat food as your feline ages is a must. Different foods contain different ingredients tailored to cats at specific stages of their lives. If you don’t make this all-important switch, your cat’s health might decline.

As cats age, they need different nutrients in the same way that people do. Adult cats need more protein, other macronutrients, and important minerals like calcium, potassium, and magnesium. They also need more calories and bigger portions than kittens do. Only feeding your cat kitten food for its whole life won’t do the trick.

Once you get to the stage of adult cat food, you can choose brands that are catered to your specific cat’s breed and medical needs. When cats reach seniority, they may need other foods altogether.

It’s common for cats to gain a little weight when switching from kitten food to adult food. This can be avoided by portioning your cat’s meals and feeding it twice daily. It’s good to use this method all the time, but especially during this transition, to ensure your cat is eating the right amount, not too little or too much.

Call Our Cat Sitters Today

For dependable care when you need it most, call the Atlanta cat sitters at Critter Sitters today at (404) 793-6178.

When you foster a cat, you want to give it the loving home it never had. But what if your new foster cat isn’t responding to your efforts right away? How long does it take for a foster cat to adjust?

All cats have different personalities and experiences that might make adjusting to a new foster home easier. Typically, the process takes a couple of weeks. To help your foster cat adjust to its new environment, be sure to provide easy access to food and water. Take introducing your cat to other rooms and pets slowly, as moving too quickly can cause anxiety. It’s important to give foster cats the love and attention they might not have experienced before at a level they are comfortable with. Taking these steps can help your foster cat better adjust to its new home and start living a happy, healthy life.

At Critter Sitters, we care about helping foster parents learn how to care for their pets. To learn more about how the dedicated cat sitters at Critter Sitters can help you, call us today at (404) 793-6178.

How Long Will it Take for My Foster Cat to Adjust?

Fostering cats is a great way to help animals in need in your area while they find a permanent home. If you’re a practiced foster parent, you may know how long it can take for a new cat to adjust. If you’re just beginning this adventure, allow our cat sitters at Critter Sitters to provide some helpful insight.

Don’t expect your new foster cat to be comfortable in your home right away. Especially for animals that are used to living on the streets or have hopped around from owner to owner, adapting to a new environment and learning to trust a new person can be difficult. While some foster cats might adjust sooner than others, the process typically takes a few weeks.

Cats tend to get accustomed to solitude. Being around people and possibly other animals takes some adjusting. If your foster cat is having difficulty adjusting to its new life in your home, especially when you’re out of the house, call the cat sitters at Critter Sitters. Our Atlanta cat sitters can hang out with your new feline friend to continue any practices you’ve introduced to help your cat become adjusted to its foster home. If your foster cat is having difficulty adjusting and you’re unsure what to do, speak with a veterinarian for guidance.

How Can I Help My Foster Cat Adjust?

While not pressuring your new foster cat and giving it time to adjust is often helpful, you can also employ certain tips and tricks to make your kitten feel more comfortable in its new environment. Providing the essentials, taking things slowly, and giving your foster cat the attention it needs can all help your feline adjust to its new home more easily.

Provide the Essentials

Before landing in your home, your foster cat may not have had reliable access to food or water. Like any new animal, it is important to let it know it doesn’t have to scrounge for the essentials. To help your foster cat adjust to your home, you should consistently provide the food and water it needs. Make it clear to your foster cat that your home is a safe, welcoming environment full of the resources it needs to live a happy and healthy life.

In addition to providing the essentials, introduce your foster cat to fun. Give it toys and items that will take up its time and help alleviate stress. Scratching posts are great for restless foster cats still trying to adjust to their new homes.

Take it One Room at a Time

Foster cats can become understandably overwhelmed when they enter a new environment. To help your cat adjust to your house’s sights and smells, introduce it to one room at a time. It’s typically best to keep a cat confined to one space for several days and slowly take it into other areas of your home. This can help a foster cat become more accustomed to your house at a rate that doesn’t cause anxiety. It’s important not to add to the stress of a new home by exposing your foster cat to too much at once.

Give Love

It’s not uncommon for foster cats to be skeptical of humans. After all, many foster cats have been rehomed time and time again. Others might have had difficult times while living on the street. It’s important to meet your new foster cat at its level and slowly start giving it love and attention. At first, your cat may be distrustful or unsure how to respond to your affection. Go slowly, and be sure to show your cat that your foster home is a safe and loving one. Our Roswell cat sitters at Critter Sitters can continue your affection efforts whenever you’re out of town, so your foster cat’s progress isn’t delayed.

Carefully Introduce Resident Pets

If you’re fostering a cat, you’re likely an animal lover. Say you have other pets, whether they be cats or dogs. In that case, it’s important to be careful when introducing a foster cat to resident pets. Cats can be pretty territorial, so keep that in mind. When introducing a foster cat to other pets, start slowly. Allow them to sniff one another through doors or gates and maybe even switch out their toys or bedding. It’s important to get foster pets and resident pets accustomed to each other’s scents so they’re not surprised when they see one another.

Call Our Cat Sitters Today

If you need someone to watch over your furry friend while you’re out of town, our team of caring professionals can help. To learn more about how the dedicated Sandy Springs cat sitters at Critter Sitters can help you, call us today at (404) 793-6178.

When your cat is feeling scared or anxious, you want to help. But what can you do to calm down a particularly skittish kitty? Our team has the answers.

If your cat is exhibiting signs of stress or anxiety, there are several things you can do. First, identify the cause of your cat’s anxiety. Depending on your cat’s personality, it may be best to give it some space when it’s scared so it doesn’t feel threatened. Be sure to provide access to the essentials, like food and water, and try to spend more intentional quality time with your furry friend. Keep a level head, and don’t lash out at your cat for not being able to express its feelings. It’s also a good idea to take your pet to the vet to rule out any medical issues that might be causing its fear or anxiety.

When you can’t be there to care for your feline, our sitters can be. To learn more about the dedicated Atlanta cat sitters at Critter Sitters, call today at (404) 793-6178.

How Can I Calm Down My Scared or Anxious Cat?

You and your cat speak different languages. So, when your feline is scared or anxious, you can’t exactly ask them what’s wrong. Instead, you may have to try a combination of tactics to identify what’s bothering your cat and to address the issue. Though that can seem like a tall task, the team of dedicated cat sitters at Critter Sitters have some tried-and-true tips that can help you calm down your scared or anxious kitty.

Identify the Cause of Stress

When dealing with a stressed-out cat, it’s important to determine the cause of its anxiety. This can be easier said than done, as various factors might cause your feline friend to feel nervous. If your cat’s jumpy behavior is new, consider what has changed in its routine. Have you started a new job, leaving your cat home all day? In that case, the cat sitters at Critter Sitters can stop by during the day to keep your cat company. Is your cat eating a different type of food? Have you introduced a new friend or another pet into its life? Before you can help your cat with its anxiety, you have to figure out what’s bothering it.

Give Your Cat Space

Cats can get anxious or stressed when they feel crowded. It’s important that your cat has ample space to roam around and escape certain triggers that might cause it to become nervous. Cabin fever can cause anxiety in cats, so consider letting your cat outdoors or expanding its domain in your home. Fresh air can do wonders for any animal, and there’s no shame in taking your feline for a leashed walk so it can clear its head. Sometimes, stress can lead to frustration, so it may be best to give your cat some space when it’s feeling overstimulated. You know your cat better than anyone, so if it likes its alone time, that may be the best solution when it’s feeling particularly anxious.

Provide the Essentials

If you recently adopted a cat and it’s acting scared or anxious, it might be because your new furry friend is unsure what to make of its new environment. To ease your cat’s feelings of uncertainty and anxiety, offer easy access to the essentials. That means water, food, and litter boxes. That’s right, litter boxes, plural. Making sure your home is a welcoming and safe place for your new cat can help alleviate any stress it might be feeling as a new member of your household.

Stay Calm

When your cat is scared or anxious, the worst thing you can do is respond with frustration. Cats have a tendency to run away or lash out when they cannot handle their emotions. It’s your job to stay calm when your cat is stressed out so that it doesn’t feel discarded or attacked. Although it can be difficult to know how to respond to an angsty feline, know what’s probably just overwhelmed and needs a calming presence that can help regulate its emotions.

Introduce Toys

Boredom leads to restlessness, which can lead to anxiety. Introducing toys is one of the best ways to ward off these feelings in your cat. There are many cat toys that felines can use to keep their minds stimulated when you can’t play with them. Toys and activities can distract your cat from feelings of anxiety, ensuring its health and happiness.

Spend Quality Time

Your cat might be stressed or anxious because it feels lonely. When you leave for work or vacation, your cat may feel abandoned, leading to personality changes. To prevent this from happening and remind your cat that it is safe, be sure to spend quality time with your feline when you’re home. Allowing the cat sitters at Critter Sitters to look after your pet when you can’t be there can also help reduce feelings of anxiety in your feline. Don’t underestimate the importance of quality time with the animal that loves and depends on you more than anyone else in the world.

Talk to Your Vet

If you’ve noticed that your cat is increasingly scared or anxious, it may be a good idea to take your feline friend to the vet. Feelings of anxiety or moodiness are not uncommon in cats dealing with medical issues or injuries. Remember, cats can’t talk, so they can’t tell you when something is wrong. Your vet can determine if your cat is dealing with an illness or injury that might be affecting its mood and overall quality of life. With the right medicines and treatments, your cat’s happy attitude may return once you take it to the vet.

Call the Cat Sitters at Critter Sitters Today

If you need someone to keep your cat company while you’re away, our team is here to help. To learn more about the dedicated cat sitters at Critter Sitters, call today at (404) 793-6178.

If you have a cat, it’s important to learn which foods it shouldn’t eat. Even one bite of the wrong thing can cause serious issues in your furry friend.

Cats aren’t humans, so they can’t eat the same foods you can. If you’re a cat owner, it’s important to learn what foods are off-limits for felines. For example, cats should not be left alone with drinks that contain alcohol and caffeine. These ingredients can be highly toxic to cats. The same can be said for chocolate, dairy products, grapes, raisins, raw dough, raw eggs, raw meat, onions, and garlic. Although dog food isn’t toxic to cats, you shouldn’t feed your feline a diet designed for a canine. Our cat sitters know this, which is why we’ll make sure we only feed your cat the food it should be eating when taking care of it.

We’re here to take care of your beloved kitty when you can’t. To learn more about the dedicated cat sitters at Critter Sitters, call us today at (404) 793-6178.

Foods to Never Feed to Your Cat

While it’s understandable to let your feline nibble on dropped crumbs or lick plates and bowls while you load the dishwasher, it’s important to know what it’s putting into its little stomach. That means sometimes saying no to your furry friend, especially when it comes to certain human foods. To make things easier for you, our caring cat sitters at Critter Sitters have put together a list of foods you should never feed your cat.

Alcohol

This one goes without saying, but the cat sitters at Critter Sitters will say it anyway, for good measure: don’t give your cat alcohol. With even just one sip of an alcoholic beverage, a cat can get alcohol poisoning. Any type of alcoholic drink can be incredibly toxic to your feline, so be sure to keep any alcoholic beverage out of reach at all times.

Caffeine

Curling up with a warm cup of coffee or tea might seem idyllic to any cat owner with a particularly energetic feline. While a caffeinated beverage might give you the burst of energy your need to take on the day, it can be dangerous to your cat if consumed. Drinking caffeinated coffee, soda, or tea can cause increased blood pressure in cats. Caffeinated drinks might also cause gastrointestinal issues and seizures in your furry friend. So, if you have a kitten, our cat sitters at Critter Sitters urge you never to leave your mug of coffee unattended.

Chocolate

While humans like to partake in a nibble or two of cocoa as a snack or dessert, they shouldn’t invite their cats to join them. Chocolate is infamously poisonous to dogs, but it is also extremely unsafe for cats. Chocolate can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and heart issues in cats when ingested. The higher percentage of cacao, the more dangerous it is for your cat.

Dairy Products

Many cats can’t properly digest milk. So, those classic images of kittens lapping milk out of saucers should not be replicated. Because many cats don’t have the necessary enzymes in their intestines to digest lactose, they are essentially lactose-intolerant. So, avoid giving your cat all dairy products. That includes milk, cheese, and yogurt. Dairy products will only cause a mess you’ll have to clean up.

Dog Food

While not toxic to cats, dog food won’t give your feline the nutrients it needs to thrive. Thinking that your cat and dog can eat the same type of food may leave your cat deficient in key nutrients. So, be sure to buy your cat its own food with the nutrients it needs to stay healthy.

Grapes and Raisins

Although it’s not necessarily clear why, grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in cats. This can be confusing for cat owners since grapes are a fruit, not a human-made product that could contain harmful chemicals. Yet, for some reason or another, grapes and raisins are a no-go for your furry friend. Even small amounts can be very dangerous, so don’t leave any of these foods out on the counter.

Raw Dough

If you’re a baking fanatic, keep your cat out of the kitchen. Raw dough, especially dough containing yeast, can be incredibly dangerous to cats if consumed. The uncooked yeast in raw dough can actually cause fermentation in the stomach, potentially leading to bloating and serious gastrointestinal problems in cats. While eating raw dough might only cause discomfort in humans, it can be toxic to felines.

Raw Eggs and Meat

There’s a popular misconception that domesticated animals like cats can eat raw eggs and meat without risk. While your kitty might share some DNA with a lion, it’s not classified as a wild animal. Cats are not immune from illnesses from raw meat and eggs, like salmonella and E. coli. Don’t leave raw meat on the counter while you’re cooking and be sure to throw away cracked eggshells. Eating these foods isn’t safe for humans and it isn’t safe for cats, either.

Onions and Garlic

Concentrated amounts of onion and garlic can be toxic to cats. That means you shouldn’t leave onion powder or minced garlic on the counter while you’re cooking, especially if your cat likes to join you at the stove. That goes for any food in the onion family, like shallots and scallions. These foods can attack your kitty’s red blood cells, leading to anemia and other medical issues. Even a few bites of a discarded onion or clove of garlic might cause lethargy and weakness. Because of that, it’s important to keep a careful eye on these ingredients while cooking.

Call Our Cat Sitters Today

When you need help caring for your furry friend, we can be there. To learn more about the dedicated cat sitters at Critter Sitters, call us today at (404) 793-6178.

Sleep is crucial for a healthy lifestyle. But how much sleep is too much sleep for your cat? If your kitty is snoozing all day, you might be wondering whether or not that’s okay.

Generally, it’s okay if your cat is sleeping for the majority of the day. Healthy cats get a considerable amount of shut-eye daily, anywhere from 15 to 20 hours. However, if your cat is showing signs of boredom or illness, oversleeping could be a concern. If your cat’s nighttime routine is impeding your sleep schedule, there are a few tactics you can employ to keep it from sleeping all day and running around all night. The bottom line is cats sleep a lot. If your cat seems to be oversleeping or its sleep patterns have changed, speak with a vet about your concerns.

When life takes you away from your beloved feline, our team can be there to watch over it. To learn more about the dedicated cat sitters at Critter Sitters, call today at (404) 793-6178.

Why Does My Cat Sleep All Day?

Cats sleep – a lot. So much so that you, as a new cat owner, might be shocked at all the shut-eye, your furry friend is getting. Most of the time, sleeping for most of the day is normal for a cat. Sometimes, constant snoozing is a sign that something is wrong. So, it’s important to set the record straight and figure out why your cat might be sleeping all day and when there’s a reason for concern.

It’s Nocturnal

Every cat owner knows that felines do what they want. Just because you wake up in the morning and go about your day doesn’t mean your cat will. Some cats are actually nocturnal. Instead of running around and getting their exercise during the day, they do it under the cover of night. Of course, not all sleepy cats are nocturnal. If you want to figure out once and for all if your cat is nocturnal or just lazy, set up a camera. That way, you can see if your furry friend is running amok while you’re asleep. If they are, let them sleep during the day. They need their rest just like you do, even if you get it at different times.

It’s Relaxing

It’s fairly normal for cats to take it easy most of the day. What you might see as laziness could just be your cat relaxing. In fact, your feline might not even be sleeping for the majority of the day, just lounging about. As long as your cat’s health is fine and it’s getting enough exercise, there’s nothing wrong with letting it bask in the sun or curl up at your feet.

It’s Bored

Like anyone, cats can get bored. If you’re out of the house all day, your cat might have difficulty entertaining itself. Of course, enrichment is important to keep your cat’s mind sharp and engaged. If you know that your feline tends to get bored and sleep too much, call a cat sitter while you’re out of town. Critter Sitter’s caring professionals can play with your furry friend to keep it engaged and keep it from oversleeping.

Sometimes, bored cats just need a bit of excitement. If your cat is especially prone to boredom, try speaking to your vet. Your cat can play with enriching toys and engage in fun activities alongside you or independently. These tricks can prevent a bored cat from lounging too much if you’re concerned.

It’s Sick

Oversleeping and a significant drop in energy might indicate that your cat is sick. If your cat has always slept for most of the day and has never had any health problems, there’s really not much to worry about. However, if your cat’s demeanor has changed and your once energetic feline is now snoozing the days away, there may be cause for concern. Oversleeping and lethargy can be signs of illness and depression in cats. Yes, cats can get sad too, and, like humans, show that sadness through a drop in energy. If your cat’s sleep patterns have drastically changed, take it to the vet.

How Can I Keep My Cat from Sleeping All Day?

If your cat’s sleep schedule is the polar opposite of yours and its nightly shenanigans are becoming too much to bear, there are a few things you can do. Be warned, cats are creatures of habit, so it may take a lot of work to keep your cat from sleeping all day.

The best way to keep your cat from sleeping day in and day out is by making a serious effort to engage in exercise. Keep your furry friend stimulated during the day by providing it with scratching posts and games. Even try taking your cat for a walk closer to your bedtime so that it’s really tuckered out by the time you go to sleep.

Feeding your cat at regular times can also alter its sleep schedule. Instead of leaving lots of food out during the day, try timed meal times, serving the largest one close to bedtime. That way, your cat will be full and happy when it’s time to nod off.

If you’ve been using specific tactics to try to change your cat’s sleeping habits, any progress you’ve made can be derailed by a day away. When life takes you away from your fatigued feline, enlist help from the caring cat sitters at Critter Sitters. Just let our cat sitters know how you’ve been keeping your cat engaged during the day, and we can take the reins so that your cat doesn’t oversleep on the days you’re out of town.

Call Our Cat Sitters Today

When you can’t be there to care for your pet, our cat sitters can be. To learn more about the loving cat sitters at Critter Sitters, call today at (404) 793-6178.

If your feline isn’t feeling well and has been prescribed medication by a vet, it’s important that you adhere to the dosage schedule. Even missing just one dose of medication can be dangerous.

Not giving your cat the medication it needs in any situation isn’t wise. It’s important to carefully follow a veterinarian’s instructions on scheduled dosages. Missing a dose can lead to unfortunate health complications, and so can giving your cat an incorrect dose. To prevent this from happening, cat owners can write dosage schedules into daily planners or set reminders on their phones. You can make your cat look forward to getting their medicine by playing a game or giving it a tasty treat. And finally, if you cannot be there to give your cat its medicine, a dedicated cat sitter can do so for you.

Our team of compassionate cat sitters is here to help you take care of your furry friend. To learn more about the caring cat sitters at Critter Sitters, call today at (404) 793-6178.

What Happens if My Cat Misses a Dose of Medication?

Cats can be prescribed all sorts of medication, from preventative tick and flea tablets to life-saving heart pills. Depending on your cat’s exact medication and how many doses it’s missed, there might not be a problem. However, in some cases, missing a dose of medication can lead to an emergency trip to the vet.

If yours is an outdoor cat, you may administer flea and tick prevention meds monthly. Missing a dose, in that case, isn’t necessarily life-threatening, but it does mean you should thoroughly search your cat for any pesky bugs.

More serious types of medication, like those for heartworms or other dangerous diseases, must be administered carefully. When a cat is young or old, missing doses can be even more dangerous.

Missing a dose can cause meds to lose their effectiveness and become less capable of protecting your furry friend. This can obviously have serious consequences, especially if you miss multiple doses of medication in a row. Even if your cat seems to be improving, and you think there’s no need to continue giving it its prescribed medication, don’t stop. Your vet prescribed that medication in that exact dosage for a reason. Choosing to stop giving it to your pet can cause your cat even more harm.

Just like missing a dose of medication isn’t good for your cat, neither is upping its dose of medication. Pay careful attention to the exact dosage prescribed by a veterinarian. Giving your cat too much of certain medications at once can have negative consequences.

If you’ve missed a dose of medication and are fearful for your cat’s health, go to the vet right away. Your veterinarian can monitor your cat and tell you how to proceed. After all, it’s better to be safe than sorry, especially when your cat’s health is on the line.

How to Make Sure Your Cat Never Misses a Dose of Medication

Having a cat is like having a child. When your cat is sick, it’s your responsibility to give it its medication and care for it. Unfortunately, the world doesn’t stop turning, and life doesn’t get any easier just because your cat is unwell. To make sure your cat never misses a dose of medication, mark its dosage schedule on a calendar. If your cat doesn’t like the taste of its medication, get creative instead of missing a dose. And finally, if life takes you away from your feeble feline, a dedicated cat sitter can stop by to give your pet its medication.

Mark Your Calendar

Some medications are administered weekly, others daily, and others still are given hourly. The less frequently you have to give your feline its necessary dose of medication, the more likely you are to forget. That’s why the cat sitters at Critter Sitters advise owners to set reminders. Whether that means writing dosage times on your daily planner, setting alarms on your phone, or putting notes on your fridge, do whatever works for you. Writing out your cat’s dosage schedule and dosage amounts, and setting up friendly reminders, can help you make sure you never miss a dose.

Get Creative

Some cats are stubborn and would rather stay sick than take their medication. After struggling with your feline for hours, frustration may take over, causing you to just try again later. Unfortunately, this can mean your cat misses an all-important dose of medicine. If your furry friend is not a fan of its medication, get creative. Ask your veterinarian if there are other ways for your cat to ingest its medicine. If it doesn’t like swallowing a pill, there may be a powder or liquid option your vet can prescribe. When all hope is lost, a little bit of their favorite treat can be a great pairing to an unappetizing dose of medicine.

Hire a Sitter

Although you’d love to, you can’t be by your cat’s side daily. Sometimes life will take you away, whether for work or vacation, making it hard to give your cat its medicine. This can be especially difficult for owners who work outside the house and have a feline that requires medicine during work hours. If that’s a struggle you’re facing, turn to our team for help. A caring cat sitter can come to check in on your feline while you’re at work or on vacation to give it the medicine it needs. While nothing is more important than your cat’s health, sometimes life pulls you in another direction. When that happens, a cat sitter can give you a helping hand.

Call Our Caring Cat Sitters Today

If you need help caring for your cat, our team is always there. To learn more about how the dedicated cat sitters at Critter Sitters can help you, call us today at (404) 793-6178.