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Category: Cats

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Animal Health Cats

How Winter Weather Impacts Your Cat’s Health and What You Can Do About It

winter cat health

As an animal communicator and medical intuitive, I’ve worked with countless cats whose well-being is influenced by the changing seasons. Winter can bring challenges for your feline friends, whether they’re indoor or outdoor adventurers. Cats are incredibly intuitive and adapt well, but they still rely on us to notice their subtle signals when the cold months affect their health.

Let’s explore how winter weather can impact your cat’s health and what you can do to keep them safe, comfortable, and happy.

1. Joint and Muscle Health

Just like humans, cats can feel the effects of cold weather in their joints and muscles, especially if they have arthritis or previous injuries. As a medical intuitive, I often sense stiffness or discomfort in older cats during winter. They might be less active, hesitate to jump, or favor certain limbs.

What You Can Do:

  • Provide soft, warm bedding in a draft-free spot. Heated pads or blankets can be a lifesaver for cats with joint issues.
  • Encourage gentle play to keep them moving without overexertion.
  • Consult your vet about supplements or treatments that can support joint health.

2. Hydration in Dry Winter Air

The dry air from indoor heating can cause dehydration in cats, leading to dry skin, dull coats, or even urinary tract issues. Cats are naturally less inclined to drink water, so this can become an issue during the colder months.

What You Can Do:

  • Invest in a cat water fountain to encourage hydration.
  • Feed a wet food diet and add water for additional moisture.
  • Use a humidifier to keep the air in your home cat-friendly.

3. Skin and Coat Changes

Winter weather can lead to dry, flaky skin or changes in coat texture. Many cats experience discomfort in their sinuses and nasal passages due to dry air. Through virtual intuitive communication sessions, cats often “share with me” their discomfort, whether it’s through subtle behaviors like excessive grooming or avoiding being touched. Even from a distance, I can tune into your cat’s energy and help identify what might be causing their discomfort, offering insights to improve their well-being during the colder months.

What You Can Do:

  • Brush your cat regularly to distribute natural oils and prevent matting.
  • Use a fish oil supplement (with vet approval) to promote healthy skin and a shiny coat.
  • Keep bathing to a minimum, as frequent baths can strip their coat of protective oils.

4. Sensitivity to Cold

Cats feel the cold too, especially short-haired or senior cats. Even indoor cats can experience discomfort if their favorite spots are near drafty windows or unheated areas.

What You Can Do:

  • Block drafts with weather stripping or insulated curtains.
  • Move their favorite resting spots to warmer areas of your home.
  • Limit outdoor time for cats that typically roam, and always provide a warm shelter if they insist on venturing out.

5. Emotional Well-being in Winter

Winter can also affect your cat’s mood. Shorter days mean less sunlight, which can impact their energy levels and overall happiness. During intuitive sessions, cats sometimes share feelings of restlessness or boredom in the winter months.

What You Can Do:

  • Engage them with new toys, puzzles, or interactive games to stave off boredom.
  • Create cozy spaces near windows so they can soak up any available sunlight.
  • Spend extra quality time with them—they’ll feel your love and warmth, which is the best gift of all.

Bonus Insight from Communication Sessions

Sometimes, cats may be dealing with discomfort that isn’t immediately visible. As an animal communicator and medical intuitive, I can help uncover what your cat is feeling and how winter weather may be affecting them specifically. Whether it’s subtle pain, emotional shifts, or environmental preferences, your cat has a lot to share about their well-being.

Winter can be a challenging time for your feline friend, but with a little extra attention and care, you can help them thrive through the cold months. If you’re curious about how your cat is feeling this winter or want tailored advice, I’m here to help. Let’s connect and tune into your cat’s needs—schedule a session today!

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Cats

DIY Cat Toys and Treats for the Holidays: Affordable and Fun Ideas Your Cat Will Love

DIY cat toys

The holiday season is a time of giving, joy, and creativity—not just for humans, but for our beloved feline friends too! Cats bring so much happiness to our lives, so why not show them some extra love this season with thoughtful, homemade toys and treats? Even better, you can save money, reduce waste, and support other animals by sorting through old toys, donating to shelters, or repurposing them into something new. Here’s how to make this holiday season special for your cat while staying budget-friendly and eco-conscious.

Step 1: Sort Through Old Toys

Before diving into DIY projects, start by taking inventory of your cat’s current toys. Here’s how:

  • Check for wear and tear: Toss anything that’s unsafe or beyond repair, like toys with loose strings or broken parts.
  • Identify neglected toys: If your cat has lost interest in certain items, consider donating gently used toys to a local animal shelter. Many shelters appreciate donations during the holidays!
  • Keep the favorites: Use an animal communicator to determine your cat’s true favorites. Then, set them aside.

Sorting through old toys not only helps declutter but also ensures your DIY efforts focus on what your cat will truly enjoy.

Step 2: Repurpose Old Cat Toys into New Fun

Why buy new toys when you can repurpose old ones into something fresh and exciting? Here are a few ideas:

  • Sock Mice: Have old, clean socks lying around? Fill them with catnip and a bit of crinkly paper, then tie the end into a knot. Instant fun!
  • Wand Toy Makeover: If the string on an old wand toy is fraying, replace it with a colorful ribbon or braided yarn. Add a small bell or feather for extra pizzazz.
  • T-shirt Yarn Balls: Cut strips of old t-shirts and roll them into small balls. Cats love the soft texture and lightweight feel.
  • Stuffed Pillows: Use scraps of fabric from old clothes to create tiny stuffed pillows filled with catnip or silvervine. Sew or glue the edges for durability.

Repurposing toys is a fun, sustainable way to extend their life while giving your cat something “new” to explore.

Step 3: DIY Treats Your Cat Will Love

What’s better than a homemade snack to go along with playtime? These easy DIY cat treats are healthy, delicious, and made with simple ingredients:

Crunchy Tuna Treats

  • Ingredients: 1 can of tuna (in water, drained), 1 cup oat flour, 1 egg.
  • Instructions:
    1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
    2. Blend tuna, oat flour, and egg until a dough forms.
    3. Roll into small balls or press into fun holiday shapes with cookie cutters.
    4. Bake for 10–12 minutes. Let cool before serving.

Catnip Delight Bites

  • Ingredients: 1 cup whole wheat flour, 1/4 cup catnip, 1/2 cup water, 2 tablespoons coconut oil.
  • Instructions:
    1. Mix ingredients into a dough.
    2. Roll into small balls and press flat.
    3. Bake at 325°F for 15 minutes. Let cool before giving to your cat.

Step 4: Give Back This Holiday Season

As you create new toys and treats for your own cat, take a moment to spread the love to less fortunate felines.

  • Donate to shelters: Shelters are always in need of supplies. Consider donating gently used toys, food, or homemade treats to bring holiday cheer to shelter cats.
  • Host a DIY Toy Drive: Get friends and family involved in making simple toys to donate. It’s a fun, creative way to make a difference.
  • Volunteer your time: Shelters are often busy during the holidays. Spending time with the cats can brighten their day and yours.

Step 5: Celebrate with Your Cat

Once your projects are complete, set up a holiday play session with your cat to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Watch as they bat at their “new” toys and nibble on homemade treats—it’s a gift for them and a joy for you!

Creating DIY toys and treats for your cat isn’t just about saving money—it’s a meaningful way to bond with your furry friend while reducing waste and giving back to other animals in need. Happy holidays to you and your feline companion!

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Cats Dogs Horses Pet Resources

Beyond the Barks and Meows: Decoding Pet Body Language

body language

Can you imagine being in an age where verbal communication wasn’t prevalent? All animals on Earth today, including the Human animal, evolved for most of its history relying solely on non-verbal communication. Some studies show that it was not until perhaps 50,000 years ago that humans developed a spoken language, while others say it could have been around for well over 200,000 years. 

Today, Humans Focus On Verbal Communication, Not Body Language

Despite when scientists believe verbal language started being used, we have, by this time in our evolution, become quite focused and reliant on our verbal skills to communicate with others. Becoming ever more distant from our earlier knowledge and familiarity of the non-verbal, or body language of our ancestors. This deep ancestral knowledge of reading body language has not, however, gone away completely. It has just faded into the background of our awareness while we focus on the busy and loud human world we live in.

This loud, verbal world has left little attention remaining to focus on and “listen to” the subtle, silent, non-verbal “language” of our animal companions. The animals, however, have had little attention or use for our loud babble and have been developing and refining their non-verbal communication skills over thousands of years. 

Each species has developed its own unique set of body language skills that include 

  • Eye contact and pupil dilation
  • Head posture
  • Ear position
  • Body stance
  • Facial expression
  • Tail carriage and movement 

These can be combined in an infinite number of combinations to express the feelings, intentions, and ideas that they need to convey to friends or foes.

Animals Rely on Body Language and Sounds

Many species have also developed sounds to use along with their body language, such as barks, meows, nickers, and chirps, but these are used as a nuance to the primary non-verbal language in most species. In fact, many scientists still do not qualify them as language because they lack some of the defining characteristics of language, such as grammar and syntax.

Some animal species are considered “vocal learners”  that can mimic human speech, such as parrots, dolphins, and beluga whales, yet this is usually not considered “language” but an excellent imitation of human speech. These animals do not use human speech to communicate with their own kind, just with humans as they are taught.

Miscommunications Between Pets and Their Owners

“Whether we speak the same language or not, the most important thing is that we strive to understand one another.”

Many of us train verbal commands to our pets in an effort to make ourselves understood, and I believe that we should be making an equal effort to understand the unique signals of communication that are native to our animal companions.

In consultation with my clients, I find that many of the “problems” pet owners experience with their family pets are due to miscommunication between the two species. We speak and expect our pets to understand our meaning, yet we are often completely unaware of the language they are attempting to share with us – the non-verbal language of their own species.

The Importance of Understanding Your Pet’s Body Language

One might see a dog wagging its tail and assume it is relaxed and happy, but that signal does not carry over to the language of a cat or horse. A cat wagging his tail conveys excitement or annoyance, and when a horse “wags” his tail, you better step back because he is quite irritated and may follow through with a kick. 

Whether you have adopted an adult dog, are training a young horse, or trying to negotiate with the family cat, having the skills to notice and respond non-verbally will help to develop the relationship between you.

Developing a deeper relationship with our companion animals relies on developing accurate communication between us. After all, when traveling in a foreign country, speaking louder and slower in English is not the best way to break through the communication barrier. Take the time to learn about the subtle nuance of language and communication that is used by the one you wish to communicate with. 

Any individual, whether human or animal, feels better when they can express themselves, be heard and understood, and understand in response. Developing this common communication system helps to develop trust in relationships and fosters a feeling of belonging and safety.

Resources for Pet Owners

Dog Owners

Imagine being able to tell when your dog is stressed and preventing a bite based solely on the dog’s body language. Well, you can! Here is a general guide to interpreting stress signals from your dog.

Cat Owners

Cat Daddy Jackson Galaxy breaks down what you need to know about cat body language in this video.

Horse Owners

To handle a horse safely, it is important to understand the changes in expression and posture that can tell you what they are thinking. You can read more here.

An animal communicator can also help you cultivate a deeper understanding between you and your pets by translating your thoughts and ideas into images and feelings that your pet can understand. Consider scheduling your personal consultation now.

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Cats Pet Resources

Thinking Outside the Box – What To Do When Your Cat Goes Outside the Box

cat

There are so many wonderful reasons to choose a cat as your household companion but cleaning up the litter box does not top the list. We are lucky that cats have become domesticated enough that they willingly choose to eliminate in a litter box rather than on our floors. This behavior can often go awry and for any cat lover, having a cat that deposits their waste outside of their litter box can be a deeply frustrating experience. This behavior can have complex layers of motivation from health issues to territory disputes but is generally a cat’s call for help. Here are some tips that may help you to discover the motivation for the behavior and correct it.

Tip 1 – Clean the Litter Box

First things first, clean the litter box. Recent studies show that domestic cats have less concern about the TYPE of litter that you use and more concern about stepping in their own waste. 

No matter how many cats you have, how many litter boxes and what type of litter, clean that box out every single day. Cats do not enjoy stepping in and around their own waste in order to do their business. 

Tip 2 – Pick the Correct Sized Box

Providing an attractive litter set-up that fits both your needs and the needs of your cat(s) can go a long way to improve the litter box habits of your cat. Pick a box that is large enough for your cat. Cats tend to prefer an uncovered box that is large enough to turn around in. An open-top box with high sides to reduce litter scatter works well for most households. Your household should have one litter box for each cat plus one extra. Ideally, one box on each level of the home to reduce territory disputes and ease of access.

Tip 3 – Pick the Right Litter

Trial and error will help you to select a type of litter that your cat is happy to use. Some cats prefer a clay type, while others do better with a soft silica texture. Select clumping or non-clumping to fit your routine but always select an unscented brand. Remember that your cat’s sense of smell is much more advanced than ours so most fragrances can be overwhelming for them. The best litter is clean litter.

What if my cat still goes outside of the box?

If you have provided a clean and easily accessible litter box and your pet continues to eliminate outside the box, it is time to consult your veterinarian. Many health conditions can alter your cat’s litter box habits. Urinary tract infections, idiopathic cystitis, diabetes, kidney disease, and cancer are other possibilities. You can read more about these conditions and others in this article. If going outside of the litter box is a recurring issue, it’s time to ask your vet for a full exam as pain from other conditions, such as arthritis, can also be a motivating behavior and the change in litter box habits. No matter the reason, typically, going outside of the box can be your cat’s call for help.

Other causes for avoiding the litter box can be territory disputes between multiple cats, foot pain from rough litter, and residual scent left on rugs by other pets. Some cats act out their frustration and stress by urinating outside the box. Do a deep assessment of the household routine to determine if any recent changes or additions have caused increased stress to your cat. The addition of a new family member and even rearranged furniture can be enough to stress out some cats.

Hire An Animal Communicator

Often, the consultation of an animal communicator can be key to uncovering the cause. In one client consult, the family cat was able to indicate mold growth on the basement floor as his motivator. The family was unaware of a slow water leak in the basement that had resulted in chronic dampness and, thus, mold growth. The cat was able to point it out and resumed his previous litter box habits once the mold was gone.

In the majority of cases, cats prefer to use their own clean litter box rather than go on the floor and they usually feel that they have a valid cause for going outside the box. A cat will rarely go outside the box simply to “be naughty,” so punishment will not correct the behavior. Our challenge is to see the situation through their eyes and uncover their motivator, remedy the issue, and then reset the habit. The solution often involves Thinking Outside the Box!

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Cats Dogs Horses Pet Resources

Summer Reading for Pet Owners

pet owners

Do you love to spend some of your summer downtime reading? If so, I’ve got a great list of books for you! Whether you spend your summer lounging on the beach or browsing through an old bookstore, this list of books will help you discover a new (or old) book and begin looking at your human-pet relationship in a new way. 

  1. Animals Make Us Human by Temple Grandin – If you’ve ever owned, cared for, or had a care in the world for an animal, this book is for you. Grandin explains the core emotional needs of animals and encourages you to explore our bond with them. 
  2. Animals in Translation: Using the Mysteries of Autism to Decode Animal Behavior by Temple Grandin – Looking for a life-changing book you won’t want to put down? This book is it! It will forever change the way you think about animals and give you great insight into the way they think. 
  3. As the Stars Fall by Steve N Lee – If a heartwarming novel is more your speed, read this book. You’ll see how friendships heal us and how compassion can make us whole again.
  4. Horse Brain, Human Brain by Janet Jones – If you are into brain science, this one might be for you. In this book, seeing, learning, fearing, trusting, and focusing are discussed from both human and horse perspectives. You’ll see just how much can be communicated between these two beings and how they can negotiate the world together. 
  5. Mental Exercises for Dogs by Timi Foster – If you and your dog want to get out and get busy this summer, try this family-friendly guide to unleash your dog’s potential.
  6. Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover’s Soul by Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen, and Carol Kline – This Chicken Soup collection shares stories about the unique bonds that animals and humans have and how pets have been teachers, healers, heroes, and friends. It’s a book that’s sure to bring you joy and inspiration. 
  7. Feline Nutrition – Nutrition for the Optimum Health and Longevity of Your Cat by Lynn Curtis – The rate of diseases such as cancer and diabetes is skyrocketing amongst our companion animals in part due to the increase in commercial “junk food” available on the market today. Often filled with chemical additives and low-nutrient fillers, these high-carbohydrate foods do not come close to the “natural” diet our carnivorous cats crave. Reading this book will help you nourish your feline friend and strengthen your understanding of their needs.
  8. Mindfulness Coloring Book – If you don’t feel much like reading but prefer to relax into a state of mindfulness, these animal images might do the trick.

No matter if you like jumping into science or just want a heart-warming book, these books can help you deepen the bond and understanding between you and your animal by embracing new ideas. You can also deepen your bond by hiring an animal communicator which can give you even more insight into the way your animal feels and behaves. 

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Cats Dogs Holiday Pet Tips Horses

9 Important Independence Day Tips for Pet Owners and Non-Pet Owners

Independence Day

Protecting animals from fireworks is crucial during celebrations like New Year’s Eve, Independence Day, or any other events involving fireworks. With Independence Day falling on a Tuesday this year, we’re in for several nights of celebration by those around you. This means that not only do we need to be mindful of our pet’s safety on July 4th, but we also need to be mindful days before and after. The loud noises, bright lights, and sudden bursts can cause extreme stress and anxiety for animals, leading to panic, injuries, or even escape attempts.

Here are some steps you can take to help protect animals from fireworks:

  1. Keep animals indoors: The best way to ensure the safety of your pets is to keep them inside your home during firework displays. Close all windows, curtains, and doors to minimize noise and block out the flashes of light. Provide a safe and comfortable area for them, such as a cozy room or their crate, where they feel secure.
  2. Create a calming environment: Reduce the impact of fireworks by creating a calm and familiar environment for your pets. Play soothing music or turn on the TV to drown out the noise. Use white noise machines or calming pheromone diffusers specifically designed for pets to help create a peaceful atmosphere.
  3. Stay with your pets: If possible, stay home with your animals during fireworks displays. Your presence and reassurance can provide comfort and alleviate anxiety. Avoid leaving them alone, as their panic may lead to destructive behavior or escape attempts.
  4. Provide a safe space: Make sure your pets have a safe place to go if they feel scared. This could be a familiar room or their crate, equipped with their favorite bedding, toys, and treats. Creating a den-like environment can help them feel protected and minimize their stress.
  5. Use positive distractions: Engage your pets in activities or playtime before the fireworks begin to tire them out. Offer interactive toys or treat-dispensing puzzles to keep them occupied and redirect their focus away from the noise and lights. Mental stimulation can help alleviate anxiety.
  6. ID tags and microchips: Ensure that your pets are wearing identification tags with updated contact information. If they manage to escape or become lost, this will increase the chances of a safe return. Additionally, consider microchipping your pets and keeping the registration details up to date.
  7. Consult a veterinarian: If your pet has an extreme fear of fireworks, consult a veterinarian. They may recommend various options, including anxiety-reducing medications, natural remedies, or behavioral training techniques to help your pet cope with the stress.
  8. Inform neighbors: If you know in advance about upcoming fireworks displays, inform your neighbors about the potential impact on pets. This can encourage them to be mindful and take precautions as well. 
  9. Inform authorities: Contact local authorities or event organizers to advocate for quieter or alternative fireworks displays that are less distressing to animals. You may even want to educate yourself about the effects that fireworks have on wildlife and domestic animals so that you can be more persuasive. For instance, the combination of deep percussion and vibration hinders a bird’s navigation abilities. Additionally, SFGate reported on studies that showed that birds leave their nests when fireworks explode, which leaves their eggs vulnerable to predators. As a result of these findings, some towns have banned traditional fireworks displays. 

By following these measures, you can help protect animals from the anxiety and stress caused by fireworks. Remember to be patient and understanding, as each animal may respond differently. Your care and attention will go a long way in ensuring their well-being during these festive occasions.

Categories
Cats Spaying/Neutering

Love Is In The Air – For Your Cats, Too

Neutering

It’s the month of love! Despite having celebrated Valentine’s Day on February 14th, a day dedicated to love and romance, the entire month is all about love! It’s a month of prioritizing self-care (specifically heart health), self-love, and fostering relationships with friends and family. When it comes to our pets, we might call February – Beat the Heat Month. Otherwise known as Spay/Neuter Awareness Month which seeks to raise awareness of the importance of spaying and neutering our pets. 

Important Information About Cat Fertility

Did you know that February is the start of the breeding season for most cats in the Northern Hemisphere and it lasts until October? During this time, a cat can have up to five litters in just one year. That’s a lot! Here’s how it’s possible:

  • Cats go through puberty, just like humans, and this can start as early as five months old.
  • Once a cat hits puberty, it can reproduce and its heat cycles last every 14 to 21 days.
  • Once pregnant, the gestation period is about 2 months which makes it possible for a cat to have up to 5 litters a year. You can learn more about a cat’s pregnancy stages here. 

Because of the possibility of pregnancy and the number of cats in each litter, it’s really important to get your cat spayed or neutered to prevent adding to the overpopulation of cats.

Benefits of Spaying/Neutering

There are many benefits to both the community and to our pets when we choose to spay or neuter. 

Reduces wandering and territorial behavior

If you have ever lived with a female cat in heat, you know what an unpleasant experience it can be with their yowling for love at any time of day or night. Any stray male in the neighborhood will be making nocturnal visits and be equally vocal. An unneutered male can get quite aggressive and will usually mark his territory by spraying his strong-smelling urine. If your cat lives outdoors even part-time, it is important that you eliminate the risk of their producing unwanted litters or being injured by other aggressive cats. 

Animals tend to live longer

Family pets that have been spayed or neutered are often more relaxed, they bond more closely with family and will be less likely to wander from home. Their life expectancy is also longer due to reduced risk of diseases such as testicular cancer in males and breast cancer in females which can be fatal 90% of the time in cats.

Helps fight overpopulation

Every year, millions of cats and dogs of all ages and breeds are euthanized or suffer as strays. These high numbers are the result of unplanned litters that could have been prevented by spaying or neutering.

Help Reduce the Strain on Shelters and Rescues

The best way to help support shelters and rescues that are dealing with the overpopulation of cats is to make sure that yours is spayed or neutered as soon as they are of age. The decision to spay or neuter your family pet can be protective for them in a number of ways. Your veterinarian can help you explore the benefits for your individual pet.

Another way is to support a feral cat rescue organization. Organizations like Alley Cat Allies, have a Feral Friends Network which brings together people and organizations for support and guidance with feral cats. Organizations like these benefit the community by trapping feral cats, providing spaying and neutering services and vaccines, and even transitioning these animals into adoptive homes when appropriate.

You could even help out by fostering a cat while they wait for its forever home. You can learn more about showing some love by fostering a cat in my recent blog.

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