3 Non-Pet Store Essentials For Your Cat
Posted on: 25 January 2016
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Whether you're thinking of adopting a cat or are already the proud pet parent of a whole clowder, you might think pet stores or the pet aisle of grocery stores are the only place with cat necessities. However, there are several things that you can buy outside of pet stores or the pet aisle that are great for cats, too. The next time you consider shopping, consider picking up some of these for your cat.
Butter and Petroleum Jelly
It may come as a surprise to see these two things listed together, but they can both help cats that are struggling with hairballs. While regularly grooming your cat's fur is the best way to prevent hairballs, if your cat already has one building in their stomach, they may need help getting it out.
Try feeding your cat half a teaspoon of either butter or petroleum jelly every day for a few days. These two substances will act like lubricant and help your cat to pass the hairball. However, if your cat still seems to be in discomfort or hasn't noticeably passed the hairball, go to a vet like Pittsburgh Spay & Vaccination Clinic. Hairballs can cause intestinal blockages that can put your cat's health at risk.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is sold nearly everywhere, and it's a fantastic tool for cat owners. Apple cider vinegar destroys the ammonia that makes cat urine smell so bad. It's non-toxic, so you can use it around your cats without worrying.
Apple cider vinegar can be added to laundry, added to floor cleansers, or it can be applied directly to problem spots on the floor. In addition, you can clean your litter box with apple cider vinegar to cut down on the acidic urine smell before adding fresh litter.
Keep in mind that if your cat is obsessively marking your home, it may be a sign that they're stressed out or having an incontinence problem. If removing the smell and regularly cleaning the litter box don't fix the problem, see a vet.
Lavender
Lavender is also beneficial to cats, and it can soothe their mood just as it can for humans.
Dabbing a little lavender oil on the cat's collar, where they can't lick, can help soothe them. You can also use lavender oil or keep lavender plants around your home where your cats enjoy lounging or sleeping, to give them a peaceful scent to snuggle up to while they're stressed out.
Lavender should only be used for occasional stress problems; if your cat is regularly panicked or stressed out, it may be a good idea to take your cat in for a checkup.
Pet stores usually have everything you need for cats, but that doesn't mean that you can't find some great things to support your kitty's happiness and health in regular grocery or health stores.