03.10.24 October 03, 2024 Getting A Kitten

How Much Should My Kitten Weigh?

As a new kitten owner, it's natural to wonder if your furry friend is growing at a healthy rate. Monitoring your kitten's weight is crucial for ensuring proper development and identifying any potential health issues early on. This comprehensive guide will help you understand how much your kitten should weigh at various stages of their young life. The Importance of Monitoring Kitten Weight Keeping track of your kitten's weight provides insight into their overall health and well-being. Sudden weight loss or failure to gain weight can indicate underlying health problems, such as parasites or nutritional deficiencies. Conversely, excessive weight gain may lead to obesity, which can cause long-term health issues. Newborn Kittens: The Starting Point How much does a newborn kitten weigh? On average, a newborn kitten weighs between 90 to 110 grams (approximately 3 to 4 ounces). Newborn kittens are entirely dependent on their mother for nutrition and warmth. During the first week, they typically gain about 10 to 15 grams per day. Kitten Weight by Age: A Month-by-Month Guide Understanding the typical weight range for kittens at different ages can help you assess whether your kitten is on track. 2 Weeks Old By two weeks, kittens usually weigh between 170 to 230 grams (6 to 8 ounces). Their eyes begin to open, and they become more active. 4 Weeks Old At one month, kittens weigh around 350 to 450 grams (12 to 16 ounces). They start exploring their environment and may begin the weaning process. 8 Weeks Old (2 Months) How much should an 8-week-old kitten weigh? At this stage, kittens typically weigh between 800 grams to 1 kilogram (1.8 to 2.2 pounds). 9 Weeks Old A 9-week-old kitten should weigh slightly more than they did at 8 weeks, usually gaining about 100 grams per week. 10 Weeks Old How much should a 10-week-old kitten weigh? Expect your kitten to weigh between 1 to 1.2 kilograms (2.2 to 2.6 pounds). 12 Weeks Old (3 Months) How much should a 12-week-old kitten weigh? At three months, kittens generally weigh between 1.2 to 1.5 kilograms (2.6 to 3.3 pounds). 4 Months Old How much should a 4-month-old kitten weigh? A kitten at this age typically weighs between 1.8 to 2.3 kilograms (4 to 5 pounds). This is a significant growth period, and proper nutrition is essential. 5 Months Old How much should a 5-month-old kitten weigh? Expect a weight of 2.3 to 2.7 kilograms (5 to 6 pounds). 6 Months Old How much should a 6-month-old kitten weigh? By now, your kitten should weigh between 2.7 to 3.2 kilograms (6 to 7 pounds). They are approaching adolescence and may begin to exhibit adult behaviours. Factors Affecting Kitten Weight 1. Breed Different breeds have varying growth rates and mature sizes. For example, a Maine Coon kitten will weigh more at six months than a Siamese kitten due to the breed's larger size. 2. Nutrition Proper diet is crucial. Kittens require a diet rich in protein and essential nutrients to support rapid growth. Feeding high-quality kitten food ensures they receive the necessary nutrients. Shop our range of nutrient-rich kitten and cat food here. 3. Health Status Parasites, infections, and other health issues can impede weight gain. Regular vet check-ups are vital to catch and treat any problems early. How to Weigh Your Kitten Accurate weight monitoring involves regular weigh-ins: Use a Digital Scale: For precision, use a kitchen or postal scale that measures in grams and ounces. Weigh at the Same Time: Weigh your kitten at the same time each day or week to maintain consistency. Record the Weight: Keep a log to track growth over time. If it’s easier you can weigh yourself with and without your kitten and deduct your weight to get theirs. Kitten Weight Chart Creating a kitten weight chart can help visualise your kitten's growth. Here's a simplified example: Age (Weeks) Expected Weight (Grams) 1 110-170 2 170-230 4 350-450 8 800-1000 12 1200 - 1500 16 1800 - 2300 20 2300 - 2700 24 2700 - 3200 When to Be Concerned About Your Kitten's Weight If your kitten's weight is significantly below or above the average kitten weight by age, consult your vet. Signs of concern include: Underweight: Lethargy, visible ribs or spine, poor coat condition. Overweight: Difficulty moving, excessive sleeping, difficulty breathing. Conclusion Understanding how much your kitten should weigh at various stages is essential for their health and happiness. Regular monitoring, proper nutrition, and veterinary care will ensure your kitten grows into a healthy adult cat. Remember, each kitten is unique, so use this guide as a reference while considering individual differences. At Lords & Labradors, we offer a range of products to support your kitten's growth all the way into adulthood, from high-quality food to comfortable bedding and super cat trees. Shop everything your kitten needs here.

By Megan Willis

The Importance of Monitoring Kitten Weight

Keeping track of your kitten's weight provides insight into their overall health and well-being. Sudden weight loss or failure to gain weight can indicate underlying health problems, such as parasites or nutritional deficiencies. Conversely, excessive weight gain may lead to obesity, which can cause long-term health issues.

Newborn Kittens: The Starting Point

How much does a newborn kitten weigh? On average, a newborn kitten weighs between 90 to 110 grams (approximately 3 to 4 ounces). Newborn kittens are entirely dependent on their mother for nutrition and warmth. During the first week, they typically gain about 10 to 15 grams per day.

Kitten Weight by Age: A Month-by-Month Guide

Understanding the typical weight range for kittens at different ages can help you assess whether your kitten is on track.

2 Weeks Old

By two weeks, kittens usually weigh between 170 to 230 grams (6 to 8 ounces). Their eyes begin to open, and they become more active.

4 Weeks Old

At one month, kittens weigh around 350 to 450 grams (12 to 16 ounces). They start exploring their environment and may begin the weaning process.

8 Weeks Old (2 Months)

How much should an 8-week-old kitten weigh? At this stage, kittens typically weigh between 800 grams to 1 kilogram (1.8 to 2.2 pounds).

9 Weeks Old

A 9-week-old kitten should weigh slightly more than they did at 8 weeks, usually gaining about 100 grams per week.

10 Weeks Old

How much should a 10-week-old kitten weigh? Expect your kitten to weigh between 1 to 1.2 kilograms (2.2 to 2.6 pounds).

12 Weeks Old (3 Months)

How much should a 12-week-old kitten weigh? At three months, kittens generally weigh between 1.2 to 1.5 kilograms (2.6 to 3.3 pounds).

4 Months Old

How much should a 4-month-old kitten weigh? A kitten at this age typically weighs between 1.8 to 2.3 kilograms (4 to 5 pounds). This is a significant growth period, and proper nutrition is essential.

5 Months Old

How much should a 5-month-old kitten weigh? Expect a weight of 2.3 to 2.7 kilograms (5 to 6 pounds).

6 Months Old

How much should a 6-month-old kitten weigh? By now, your kitten should weigh between 2.7 to 3.2 kilograms (6 to 7 pounds). They are approaching adolescence and may begin to exhibit adult behaviours.

Factors Affecting Kitten Weight

1. Breed

Different breeds have varying growth rates and mature sizes. For example, a Maine Coon kitten will weigh more at six months than a Siamese kitten due to the breed's larger size.

2. Nutrition

Proper diet is crucial. Kittens require a diet rich in protein and essential nutrients to support rapid growth. Feeding high-quality kitten food ensures they receive the necessary nutrients. Shop our range of nutrient-rich kitten and cat food here.

3. Health Status

Parasites, infections, and other health issues can impede weight gain. Regular vet check-ups are vital to catch and treat any problems early.

How to Weigh Your Kitten

Accurate weight monitoring involves regular weigh-ins:

Use a Digital Scale: For precision, use a kitchen or postal scale that measures in grams and ounces.
Weigh at the Same Time: Weigh your kitten at the same time each day or week to maintain consistency.
Record the Weight: Keep a log to track growth over time.

If it’s easier you can weigh yourself with and without your kitten and deduct your weight to get theirs.

Kitten Weight Chart

Creating a kitten weight chart can help visualise your kitten's growth. Here's a simplified example:

Age (Weeks)	Expected Weight (Grams)
1	110-170
2	170-230
4	350-450
8	800-1000
12	1200 - 1500
16	1800 - 2300
20	2300 - 2700
24	2700 - 3200

When to Be Concerned About Your Kitten's Weight

If your kitten's weight is significantly below or above the average kitten weight by age, consult your vet. Signs of concern include:

Underweight: Lethargy, visible ribs or spine, poor coat condition.

Overweight: Difficulty moving, excessive sleeping, difficulty breathing.

Conclusion

Understanding how much your kitten should weigh at various stages is essential for their health and happiness. Regular monitoring, proper nutrition, and veterinary care will ensure your kitten grows into a healthy adult cat. Remember, each kitten is unique, so use this guide as a reference while considering individual differences.

At Lords & Labradors, we offer a range of products to support your kitten's growth all the way into adulthood, from high-quality food to comfortable bedding and super cat trees. Shop everything your kitten needs here.

Getting A Puppy

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Getting A Kitten

Should My Cat Stay Indoors?

Health

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09.01.25 January 09, 2025 Getting A Kitten

Should My Cat Stay Indoors?

Deciding whether your cat should live indoors or be allowed to roam outdoors can be a difficult decision. Cats have a reputation as independent explorers, yet modern pet care emphasises their safety and well-being, often tipping the scales in favour of indoor living. So, should your cat stay indoors? Let’s explore the pros and cons, answer common questions, and provide expert tips for making the best decision for your feline friend. Indoor Cats: Pros and Cons Keeping a cat indoors has several benefits, but it’s essential to consider potential downsides too. Advantages of Indoor Cats: Safety: Indoor cats are protected from traffic accidents, predators, toxic plants, and other outdoor hazards. Health: Indoor cats are less likely to contract diseases such as feline Leukemia or FIV (feline immunodeficiency virus), which are common in outdoor cats. Longevity: Studies show that indoor cats typically live longer than their outdoor counterparts due to reduced exposure to dangers. Control over Environment: You can create a safe, enriched environment tailored to your cat’s needs. Challenges of Indoor Cats: Boredom and Frustration: Without proper stimulation, indoor cats may become bored, leading to destructive behaviours. Weight Management: Indoor cats are more prone to obesity due to reduced physical activity. To mitigate these challenges, ensure your indoor cat can access toys, scratching posts, and climbing furniture. An enriched indoor environment can keep them physically and mentally stimulated. We have everything to keep them stimulated here at Lords & Labradors, from deluxe scratching posts and trees to fun interactive toys! Indoor vs Outdoor Cats The debate between indoor cats vs outdoor cats often sparks strong opinions. Here’s a comparison to help you weigh the options: Outdoor Cats: Pros: Natural exercise, freedom to explore, and stimulation from their environment. Cons: Exposure to dangers like vehicles, predators, diseases, and harsh weather. Indoor Cats: Pros: Controlled environment, better health and safety, and the potential for a longer life. Cons: Requires effort to provide adequate stimulation and prevent boredom. Ultimately, the choice depends on your cat’s personality, your living situation, the area you live in and how much effort you’re willing to put into creating a safe and engaging space. Is It Cruel to Keep Cats Indoors? Many pet owners wonder, "Is it cruel to keep a cat indoors?" or "Do cats like staying indoors?" The answer largely depends on how well you cater to your cat’s needs. Cats have a natural instinct to hunt and explore, so keeping them indoors without proper enrichment can lead to frustration. However, with the right environment—including scratching posts, toys, perches, and regular playtime—indoor cats can thrive. In fact, many cats prefer the comfort and safety of an indoor life, especially when they have never experienced the outdoors. If your cat shows signs of stress or boredom, consider adding new activities or spaces, such as window perches or interactive toys. Can an Outdoor Cat Become an Indoor Cat? Yes, an outdoor cat can transition to an indoor lifestyle. The process requires patience and gradual changes: Start with Shorter Outdoor Sessions: Gradually reduce the time your cat spends outside, bringing them indoors more frequently. Create an Enriching Environment: Provide plenty of stimulation indoors, such as scratching posts, climbing trees, and puzzle toys. Stick to a Routine: Cats thrive on consistency, so create a daily routine for feeding, playtime, and relaxation. Provide Safe Outdoor Access: If your cat struggles with the transition, consider a compromise like a catio or supervised walks with a harness. Transitioning an outdoor cat to an indoor lifestyle can improve their safety and health, but it’s crucial to ensure they feel comfortable and stimulated indoors. It may be worth speaking to your vet or a behaviourist if you have questions on the best way to transition your cat from being outdoors to indoors. Can an Indoor Cat Become an Outdoor Cat? Conversely, you might wonder, "Can an indoor cat become an outdoor cat?" While it’s possible, it comes with risks. Before making the switch, consider: Vaccinations: Outdoor cats need vaccinations to protect them from diseases like rabies and feline distemper. Check with your vet to ensure your cat’s vaccinations are up to date. Gradual Introduction: Start with supervised outdoor time to allow your cat to acclimate safely. Safety Precautions: Use a harness and leash for control or limit outdoor access to a secure garden. Environmental Risks: Evaluate the risks in your area, such as busy roads or predatory animals. If you’re concerned about your cat’s safety but want to provide outdoor experiences, a catio or enclosed garden is an excellent compromise. Do Indoor Cats Need Vaccines? Even indoor cats need vaccinations. While they are less exposed to diseases than outdoor cats, there’s still a risk of infections from: Contaminated surfaces or objects brought inside. Other pets in the household. Escape attempts that expose them to outdoor environments. Consult your vet about core vaccines and boosters to keep your cat healthy, regardless of whether they’re an indoor or outdoor cat. Creating the Ideal Indoor Environment If you decide to keep your cat indoors, creating a stimulating environment is key to their happiness. Here are some essentials: Scratching Posts: Cats need to scratch to maintain healthy claws and mark their territory. Place scratching posts in areas your cat frequents. Shop our favourite cat scratching posts here. Toys: Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and wands provide mental and physical stimulation. We especially love the Catit Senses circuits for keeping our cats busy. Perches and Climbing Trees: Cats love high vantage points. Invest in a cat tree or wall climbers for them to climb. Our Malmo range of wall climbers is perfect for fixing on to your wall to create a circuit for your cat to climb. Litter Boxes: Provide clean, accessible litter boxes. For multiple cats, ensure there’s one per cat, plus an extra. Interactive Playtime: Spend time playing with your cat daily to strengthen your bond and keep them active. Conclusion: Indoor or Outdoor Cat? The decision to keep your cat indoors or allow them outdoors depends on your lifestyle, location, and your cat’s personality. Indoor cats can lead long, happy lives when their environment is enriched with the right essentials. On the other hand, outdoor access provides natural stimulation but comes with significant risks. If you’re looking to provide the best care for your indoor cat, check out Lords & Labradors’ cat essentials collection. From scratching posts and toys to litter boxes, we have everything you need to create a safe, engaging space for your feline friend. Explore our range today and ensure your cat lives their best life indoors!

By Megan Willis
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02.10.24 October 02, 2024 Getting A Kitten

Different Growth Stages of Cats

Understanding the growth stages of cats is essential for providing them with the appropriate care, nutrition, and environment they need to thrive. From tiny kittens to fully grown adults, cats undergo significant changes both physically and behaviourally. This comprehensive guide explores the feline growth stages, answering common questions like "when do cats stop growing?" and "what age can cats become pregnant?" to help you navigate your cat's developmental journey. Here at Lords & Labradors we’ve carefully curated our range of cat products to support your cat through every stage of their development. Shop our cat essentials here. Stages of a Kitten's Development Kittens grow rapidly, and their development can be categorised into several distinct stages: 1. Neonatal Stage (0-2 Weeks) In the neonatal stage, kittens are entirely dependent on their mother. They are born blind and deaf, relying on their sense of touch and smell to find warmth and food. During this period, they sleep almost constantly and are unable to regulate their body temperature. 2. Transitional Stage (2-4 Weeks) Between two to four weeks, kittens begin to open their eyes and ears, starting to respond to sounds and sights. They start to develop their sense of balance and may attempt their first steps. This is a critical phase in the kitten development stages as they begin to explore their immediate surroundings. 3. Socialisation Stage (4-12 Weeks) This stage is vital for social development. Kittens learn to interact with their mother, siblings, and humans. They start to play, which is essential for developing motor skills and social behaviours. During this period, they are weaned off their mother's milk and introduced to solid food. 4. Juvenile Stage (3-6 Months) At this stage, kittens are more independent and energetic. They experience rapid growth and refinement of their physical abilities. Training and socialisation are crucial during this time to ensure they develop into well-adjusted adults. 5. Adolescent Stage (6-12 Months) Kittens begin to reach sexual maturity during the adolescent stage. Behavioural changes may occur, such as increased territoriality or marking behaviours. It's an ideal time to consider spaying or neutering to prevent unwanted pregnancies and reduce certain behaviours. Six-Month-Old Kitten: What to Expect A six-month-old kitten is comparable to a human teenager. They are adventurous, curious, and may test boundaries. Physically, a six-month-old kitten size is about 75% of their full-grown size. This is also when many kittens become sexually mature, leading to the question, "at what age can a kitten get pregnant?" What Age Can Cats Become Pregnant? Understanding "what age can cats become pregnant?" is crucial for preventing unwanted litters. Female cats can become pregnant as early as 5 to 6 months old. Similarly, male cats can impregnate females at this age. Therefore, early spaying or neutering is recommended. When Do Kittens Stop Growing? Many cat owners wonder, "when do kittens stop growing?" The growth rate slows significantly after the first year. However, most domestic cats continue to grow until they are about 18 months old. Larger breeds, like the Maine Coon, may not reach full size until they are 3 to 4 years old. When Is a Cat Fully Grown? Determining when a cat is fully grown depends on various factors, including breed, nutrition, and overall health. Generally, cats reach full physical maturity between 18 months to 2 years of age. However, mental and emotional maturity may take a bit longer, with some cats retaining kitten-like behaviours well into adulthood. How Long Is a Cat a Kitten? Cats are generally considered kittens until they reach one year old. However, the transition from kitten to adult can vary. Kitten Growth Stages: A Summary To recap the kitten growth stages: 0-2 Weeks: Neonatal stage; entirely dependent on the mother. 2-4 Weeks: Transitional stage; sensory development begins. 4-12 Weeks: Socialisation stage; learning behaviours and social skills. 3-6 Months: Juvenile stage; rapid growth and increased independence. 6-12 Months: Adolescent stage; sexual maturity and behavioural changes. 12 Months+: Adult stage; generally a kitten is considered a cat once they reach 1 year old. How Quickly Do Kittens Grow? Kittens grow rapidly, especially in the first six months. They can double or triple their weight in just a few weeks. This rapid growth requires a nutrient-rich diet formulated for kittens to support their development. We stock plenty of high-quality and nutrient-rich kitten food which are perfect for supporting your kitten's growth. Feline Growth Stages and Nutrition Proper nutrition is vital throughout the feline growth stages. Kittens need food high in protein, fat, and essential nutrients to support their rapid growth. As they approach adulthood, their dietary needs change, and transitioning to adult cat food is necessary. Cat Growth and Health Monitoring Regular veterinary visits are essential to monitor cat growth and development. Your vet can track weight, height, and overall health, ensuring your cat is on the right path. Conclusion Understanding the growth stages of cats is crucial for providing the best care throughout their lives. From the rapid development in kitten-hood to reaching full maturity, being informed helps you anticipate their needs and promote a healthy, happy life. Remember, while general timelines exist, each cat is unique. Factors like breed, genetics, nutrition, and health play significant roles in their development. If you have concerns or questions about your cat's growth, consult your veterinarian for personalised advice. By staying attentive to your cat's growth and development, you ensure they not only grow in size but also flourish in health and happiness, enriching both their life and yours. Shop everything you need to help nurture your kitten through all their growth stages here at Lords & Labradors. From high quality food, to luxury cat trees and interactive toys we have everything you could need.

By Megan Willis
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06.01.25 January 06, 2025 Health

When Is It Too Cold To Walk Your Dog?

Winter’s really starting to set in - the clocks have gone back, resulting in darker nights and we’ve all rushed to get the heating on. But once Jack Frost has made his appearance, you may start wondering whether it’s too cold to walk your dog. You might be all set with a coat, hat, gloves and scarf, however your dog is less protected from the elements than you are. Their fur helps to keep them warm to a degree, and you can always put them in a winter coat or woolly jumper to protect them from the cold even more. But at which temperature do you decide that it’s too cold to walk them? Should You Walk Your Dog In Winter? You absolutely should walk your dog in winter. Walking is an excellent source of exercise for your dog, but also a way for them to experience the wonderful smells of the world around them. They get to socialise with other dogs, have some bonding time with their owner and wear themselves out ready for a cosy night by the fire. However, before you take your dog out, you should take a look at what the weather’s doing before making a decision. If it’s a beautiful, crisp sunny day, for example, with very little breeze, a walk would be welcome. But if it’s looking a bit windy and stormy, you may decide that it’s best not to go. The walk should be enjoyable, and it’s likely that neither of you will enjoy it if it’s like this. You may also want to assess whether it’s safe to take your beloved pet out. Low fog or mist and hail can be dangerous, for example, so in these conditions it may be safer to skip the trip out. If you do decide to venture out in the rain or snow, be sure to take a route that’s well paved and well lit. Can Dogs Be Walked In The Cold? Dogs definitely can be walked in the cold, and you shouldn’t let the dropping temperatures be a reason to stop giving them their daily exercise. A walk is likely one of the highlights of your dog’s day (besides dinner time) so if they’re happy to go out in the cold, you should be happy to take them. There are some things that you may want to take into consideration before you leave the house, though. First, you should try to walk during the day - it will be much colder early in the morning and in the evening, so stick to mid-morning or early afternoon, between 10 and 2 is ideal. Plus if salt has been put on the pavements and roads, it’s more likely to have been pushed off the surfaces by other people that have come and gone over the course of the day. Salt can cause irritation of the skin on the paw’s underside and can become painful for your dog. You should go prepared with a coat for your dog that is sized correctly, making it comfortable for them and easy to walk in. Check out our best winter dog coats blog to see our favourites this winter. As already mentioned, you should stick to well-lit paths or routes that you and your dog know well. If they get anxious about the rain or cold weather, knowing where they are going could help them to feel a bit more at ease. At what temperature does a dog need a coat? This will vary from dog to dog, typically smaller dogs, short haired breeds and puppies will get colder easier than their larger & long haired counter parts. There isn't an exact temperature that your dog will need a coat, but we recommend watching your dog's behaviour and judging from that, remember you know them best! If they don't like wearing a coat don't force them, the stress isn't worth it for you or them! Even with all these things in place, your dog may not be that keen to go out. Always be sure to listen to what your best friend is telling you. If they’re refusing to walk, shivering, standing in a hunched position or whining, then you should take them home. [product] If your dog doesn't fancy a walk but still has lots of energy to burn, why not try some indoor enrichment activities with them? 15 minutes of sniffing is equivalent to an hour's dog walk, so snuffle mats will be your best friends when your dog doesn't fancy a wintery walk. Alternatively, the Nina Ottosson interactive dog toys are great for keeping your dog's mind busy. What Temperature Is Too Cold For A Dog To Walk Outside? Now we’ve discussed certain weather conditions and how to prepare for a chilly walk. But how do you know when it’s time to skip walkies altogether? and what temperature should you not walk your dog? Use our table below to work it out! Dog Walking Temperature Chart As you can see, small dogs are more vulnerable in the cold, whereas bigger dogs can withstand lower temperatures. Do keep this in mind when taking your furry friend for a walk, and avoid walking any dog when temperatures drop below -10℃, even if they’re wearing a coat. For puppies and older dogs, it’s better to exercise a little bit more caution, as they could be more vulnerable to the cold too. If you’re at all unsure, it’s probably best to keep them in. Can I walk my dog in -4℃? As you can see from the chart above -4℃ is either potentially unsafe or dangerous depending on what size dog you have. If you have a small or medium sized dog, or a puppy we recommend staying home and using enrichment activities to keep them busy. However, if you have a large dog, walk them with caution or stay home. If you do decide to walk a larger dog, we recommend keeping their walk shorter and properly dry them off once you're home. How Long Should You Walk Your Dog In Cold Weather? Generally, it’s best to cut your walks short when it’s really cold outside. The longer your pup is outside, the lower their body temperature will go, so it’s best to give them a few shorter walks instead of giving them one long walk. For temperatures above -4℃, medium to large dogs can walk for around half an hour, whereas smaller dogs should be limited to around 20 minutes. However, do keep in mind that other factors can make it feel colder outside than it actually is. For instance, a strong wind can take a relatively mild day to a freezing cold one. Walking in the snow can be fun too, when it’s a lovely sunny day, but if you’re walking in wet sleet or through sludgy snow, your dog’s body temperature can drop quite quickly, even when they’re moving. You should stop your dog from eating snow, as this can bring their temperature down too. You should be able to walk your dog in winter, when it’s perfectly sunny or when it’s a little bit rainy. Just do take into account other weather factors and how long you’re outside for. Do Dog's Paws Get Cold? Just like our hands and feet, your dog's paws can get cold too! However, over time their paws have adapted to help them from freezing. Their arteries bring warm blood from their body to their paws and back up their legs, rather than loosing the heat through their skin, this is known as a countercurrent heat exchange. To help keep your dog's paws warm, make sure to dry in between their paw pads after a walk and wash off any salt and grit they may have walked through. You can even use some paw balm after to help stop their paw pads from cracking.

By Zac Girdlestone
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03.12.24 December 03, 2024 Health

Keep your Pet Safe this Festive Season!

The run up to Christmas is generally a fun time for all. Christmas markets, cream topped hot chocolate, perhaps a mulled wine, festive films, gift wrapping; there is a lot to enjoy during the festive period. But what about our pets? Whilst we are all for letting them join in the Christmas cheer (have you perused our Christmas Grotto yet?!), we also know it is important to be aware of the possible dangers posed to pets at this time of year. We’ve created this article to make sure you’re aware of the hazards your pets might face this Christmas. Christmas Chocolate and Treats There are a number of human foods that are toxic to cats and dogs. The best thing is to keep all human food away from your pet and make sure your guests know not to “treat” your pet with anything from their dinner plate or the chocolate box - what may seem like a kind offering may just be toxic to your cat or dog. Buy in some festive themed cat or dog treats so your pet can join in the Christmas feast safely Some foods that are toxic to pets include raisins, onions, chocolate and grapes. You should also be cautious of sweets and turkey which have both been known to cause illness and even death in pets. Christmas Treats for Pets - Why not buy some festive themed dog or cat treats for your furry friends so they can enjoy the festivities without tucking in to your human foods. We have a wonderful selection of pet safe treats with a christmassy twist so your four legged family members can join in the feast! Flowers and Plants We’ve talked about toxic plants and flowers in the blog posts and it’s particularly important to be conscious of potential floral dangers to your pets at this time of year. Plants are a popular choice of gift at Christmas and many of us decorate around the home with a festive floral display to two. If you have pets it’s important to make sure they can’t come in to contact with a nothing toxic, such as lilies, mistletoe or holly) If you’re going to decorate with these, either keep them in a room that your pet isn’t allowed in or keep them out of reach. The last thing anyone needs is a poisoned pet at Christmas. Some of the popular festive plants to be cautious of include holly, poinsettia, amaryllis and pine. Christmas Tree If you have a cat or a particularly inquisitive dog (puppies especially), be thoughtful of your tree; where you place and how you decorate it. Tinsel might not be the best idea if you have cats - the glistening reflections could well find your cat launching at the tree! The same goes for low lying baubles and lights. You know your pet best, so place the tree with your pet in mind. Be wary of glass baubles and any small ornaments - these pose a risk of injury and if ingested can cause internal bleeding. If you have a real tree be careful of adding certain plant foods when you water it - just in case your thirsty pet decides to take a sip. Lit Candles This seems obvious, but it’s easy to forget you have a candle burning in the corner. Keep candles out of reach pf pets - we don’t want to see any singed whiskers this Christmas! Not only can they burn your cat or dog, but if they get knocked of a shelf or other surface can cause a fire. Quiet Time Lots of visitors and celebrations can be overwhelming for our pets. Make sure there is a quiet room or area that they can retreat to when all the celebrations get a little bit too much. Even sociable pets can get worn out - giving them a peaceful area away from visitors will allow them to rest when they want and not get agitated or stressed. This is especially important for cats who tend be more independent creatures. Make Christmas Special for Your Pets Take into account the potential hazards, but don't focus on them. There's no reason Christmas can't be super special for humans and animals alike. If you haven't already perused the virtual shelves of our Christmas Grotto you should definitely head over there now. We've hand selected some darling items that are perfect for all your loveable pets. Whether it's a festive treat or something to wear, there is something for every Christmas-loving pet. Don't miss our hampers that are filled with all kinds of goodies - we have versions for both cats and dogs!

By Zac Girdlestone
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