7 Human Foods That Cats Can Enjoy

7 Human Foods That Cats Can Enjoy

If you are a pet parent, you must be used to examining the ingredient list of pet foods at the grocery store. While cats are carnivores, not all human foods suit them. Ensuring that everything they eat is safe can require considerable research. However, certain foods from your plate could be great snacks for cats. So, read on to see the delicious yet safe foods you can give your pet to meet their nutritional needs: Human foods safe for cats Here are some fruits, vegetables, and other snacks your cat may enjoy. However, you must give them these items in moderation, as most of your pet’s food should be specifically designed for them. Many brands offer wet cat food products to help pets meet their daily nutrient requirements. Nevertheless, here are a few human foods safe for cats: Strawberries Strawberries are an incredibly delicious treat, and they can be just as beneficial for cats as humans. Strawberries are a great source of antioxidants, vitamin C, folate, and potassium. These nutrients help boost your cat’s digestive and overall health. Strawberries contain ellagic acid, which helps protect the cells from the harmful effects of free radicals (unstable damage-causing atoms) and improves eye health. The fibers in strawberries promote a healthy gut, and the fresh flavor makes the fruit a favorite for your furry friend. Additionally, strawberries can even help eliminate bad breath in cats. Bananas Cats may enjoy bananas as occasional treats, and the fruit can have certain benefits. First, it is a good source of fiber, which can help regulate digestion and prevent constipation. Banana also contains several vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C and potassium, that can help improve overall health. Salmon Salmon packs protein and essential fatty acids, which can help support the overall health of cats. The fatty acids in salmon are known to enhance coat (fur) health and reduce inflammation and joint pain in cats.
Read More
Top 9 human foods that dogs can enjoy

Top 9 human foods that dogs can enjoy

Whenever you have a meal or a snack, it can be hard to resist sharing tidbits from your plate with your pet. But not all foods are safe for dogs, especially for the young and old ones, as their digestive system may not process all foods with ease. Nevertheless, it is difficult to keep pets from eating human foods every now and then, so here are a few safe foods you can share with dogs: Apples Apples are rich in fiber and essential nutrients. Also, nutritionists recommend apples for pets to boost their vitamin intake, making them one of the best human foods dogs can enjoy. The fruit is loaded with essential polyphenols, flavonoids, antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and healthy omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Also, the fibrous texture of the fruit makes it a great munchie to keep their teeth clean. However, you must remove the seeds before feeding apples to dogs, as the seed can release cyanide—a known poison for both humans and pets—when chewed. Blueberries Blueberries are the richest source of antioxidants that should be a part of your and your pet’s daily meal plan. Blueberries naturally help boost immunity and prevent cell damage caused by free radicals attacking the immune system. Blueberries are also low in calories and easy to digest, making them a healthy snack alternative to store-bought treats. You can give berries regularly to senior dogs, as the antioxidants help counter the problems that dogs face with advancing age. Watermelon Fruits are a rich source of hydration, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that boost immunity. Watermelon is one of the safer options that your furry friends can definitely eat to deal with the summer heat. Watermelon is a low-calorie snack rich in potassium and vitamins A, B6, and C essential for improving immune function.
Read More
Avoid feeding these 16 toxic foods to pets

Avoid feeding these 16 toxic foods to pets

When our pets stare at us while we eat, it can be difficult to resist their pleading gaze. However, giving in to their begging behavior can create a bad habit we don’t want to encourage. In addition, some human foods can be toxic to our pets and cause them to become very ill. So, it’s important to resist the urge to share our food with our furry friends. Some foods to avoid are: Caffeine Tea, coffee, soda, and other caffeinated beverages can harm your cats and dogs. This is because their bodies are more sensitive to caffeine than ours. Although licking a little shouldn’t lead to poisoning, consuming too much caffeine can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, panting, excessive thirst, abnormal heart rhythm, seizures, and even death. Xylitol Xylitol is a commonly used sugar alternative found in baked goods, chewing gum, vitamins, and other “sugar-free” labeled foods. Even in small amounts, xylitol is highly toxic for your cats and dogs and could cause low blood sugar, seizures, liver failure, and death. Xylitol poisoning occurs quickly, so if you suspect your pet has consumed any, contact the veterinarian immediately. Avocados Avocados have become popular in many households due to their high nutrient content. However, it’s important to note that avocados can harm our pets because they contain a toxin called ‘persin.’ This toxin is commonly found in the avocado’s skin, leaves, and pit, and consuming it can cause gastrointestinal problems for pets. Garlic and onion It’s important to know that certain foods from the Allium family, including onions, garlic, chives, and leeks, can harm cats and dogs. It’s best not to give these foods to your pets in any form – even if they’re used as ingredients or seasoning in their food. It’s also important to avoid foods containing these vegetables and herbs.
Read More
9 common human foods that are unsafe for dogs

9 common human foods that are unsafe for dogs

Dogs love food and are always ready to catch their next snack. To keep them happy, many pet parents give them a bite of whatever they are eating. However, doing so can be dangerous. Many foods that are nutritious for humans tend to be unsafe and, in many cases, downright fatal for dogs. Here are some common foods that are unsafe for dogs and should be kept away from their reach. Ice cream Many people believe dairy products are healthy for pets. However, there are several exceptions to that, especially in the case of dogs. For instance, ice cream is delicious but not very safe for dogs. Ice cream can be a significant health hazard for canines because their digestive system cannot process dairy-based foods well. Their bodies cannot manufacture the enzyme that breaks down the sugar heavily found in milk. When someone feeds their dog a cup of ice cream, their pet will likely vomit it out entirely due to the large number of gastrointestinal complications the food creates in their body. Canines may also develop allergy symptoms and itching after eating dairy-based products. Avocados Avocados contain a high percentage of persin. While this toxin does not harm humans, it can be deadly for dogs. Persin is also found in the fruit’s leaves, pits, and bark, meaning the entire avocado plant is toxic to them. Eating avocados causes fluid to accumulate in a dog’s chest, heart, pancreas, abdomen, and lungs, which can lead to oxygen deprivation and even death. Swallowing avocado pits can cause blockage in the pet’s digestive system. Grapes Grapes and raisins are among the most delectable snacks for humans but are incredibly harmful to canines. They can cause kidney failure in dogs, which can be fatal if not treated promptly. The condition occurs because grapes and raisins have many toxic elements detrimental to a dog’s health.
Read More
5 home remedies to prevent flea and tick infestation

5 home remedies to prevent flea and tick infestation

Having a pet is a promise of loving companionship. While these furry companions bring lots of love and joy into a pet parent’s life, they also attract bugs and pests like ticks and fleas, which attach to their skin and fur. These pests are unhygienic and unsafe as they potentially also carry illnesses like tick fever, which can even be fatal. Here are some home remedies that should be used frequently to prevent flea and tick infestation. Diatomaceous earth This is a fine, powder-like substance which is made from silica. The same substance that makes up sand. This diatomaceous earth can be sprinkled on various furniture, rugs, and even bedding. One can use it generously around the house and even at the corners. This substance helps in drying up the fleas and the eggs, which means it can kill the infestation, if any, in the house. Leave this lying around for a couple of hours, and then vacuum it up. This is a safe and non-toxic remedy that can help keep ticks and fleas away from one’s pets. However, one thing to note is that the dusty powder can irritate the airways if breathed in. So it is important to not stay in the house while this is sprinkled around. Citrus Citrus is a natural repellent for fleas because of its acidic nature, and it also kills their eggs. Citrus extraction from oranges or lemons is a useful home remedy for treating tick and flea infestation. Take a few orange and lemon peels and boil them in water. Let the water cool down and filter it out to bottle it up in a spray bottle. This spray can be used around the house to help kill the fleas and their eggs. Extracts from citrus peels, like d-limonene and linalool, are easily available in the market and can be bought to use at home for these pests.
Read More
8 ways to deal with flea and tick infestations

8 ways to deal with flea and tick infestations

Ensuring the well-being and comfort of pets is the most important part of pet care. Dogs, in particular, can be vulnerable to parasite infestation, as pests like fleas and ticks can find their way onto the fur. These pests can also hide in grassy environments. Upon finding a habitable spot, these pests swiftly reproduce, causing discomfort and health issues for their unsuspecting hosts. So, here are a few ways to manage such infestation in dogs: 1. Regular grooming and bathing Good pet hygiene is a key step toward flea and tick prevention in dogs. Here, bathing serves a dual purpose—cleaning the dog’s coat and getting rid of existing pests. One should consider using a mild, dog-friendly shampoo and thoroughly rinsing the dog’s coat. Additionally, grooming is a practice that allows one to spot fleas or ticks early, preventing infestations from worsening. By gently combing through the dog’s fur and paying special attention to areas like the neck, ears, and tail, one can find and physically remove pests. 2. Using flea combs or tick tweezers These are indispensable tools for managing an infestation. The fine-toothed flea comb allows one to gently sift through their dog’s fur, focusing on areas where these pests tend to hide. This method serves as an immediate solution to removing both fleas and ticks, preventing them from feeding and potentially transmitting diseases. On the other hand, tick tweezers offer precise and safe removal of ticks without leaving any mouthparts behind. By grasping the tick as close to the skin as possible and pulling it straight out, one can ensure that the tick is completely removed. 3. Keeping the surroundings clean The at-home environment is just as important as treating the dog itself. Fleas and ticks can lurk in carpets, bedding, and outdoor areas, so vacuuming regularly and washing the dog’s bedding in hot water can eliminate fleas and ticks in these areas.
Read More

Latest Articles

Foods to Eat and Avoid for Optimal Kidney Health

Foods to Eat and Avoid for Optimal Kidney Health

Kidneys help filter waste from the blood and dispose of it off the body via urine. They also help balance the electrolyte and fluid levels in the body. But, conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes may intervene with their ability to work as required. Furthermore, damage to the kidney might also result in chronic kidney disease. Hence making changes in your meal plan is a vital aspect of treatment. You can prevent damage to these organs by following a kidney-healthy meal plan. Below, we will address some foods to eat and avoid for better kidney health. Foods to eat Cauliflower Cauliflower is a nutritious vegetable. It’s an excellent source of folate, Vitamins B, K, and C. It’s rich in anti-inflammatory compounds like indoles, a fiber source. In addition, you can use mashed cauliflower as a replacement for potatoes. For example, a cup of cooked cauliflower has 40 mg of phosphorous, 176 mg of potassium, and 19 mg of sodium. Sweet potatoes They are relatively similar to white potatoes but have more fiber content, resulting in them breaking down more gradually. Hence, you will experience a less spike in insulin levels. Sweet potatoes are also rich in vitamins and minerals like potassium that help balance the sodium levels in the body and lower their impact on the kidneys. But, since sweet potatoes have a high potassium content, people on dialysis or those with CKD should curtail the intake of this vegetable. Red bell peppers They are rich in flavor and low in potassium, but that is not the sole reason they are considered a hit among people with kidney disease . Red bell peppers have Vitamin C and A sources and are also high in fiber, folic acid, and B6 vitamin content. In addition, red bell peppers are also suitable because they have lycopene, an antioxidant that shields against some cancers.
Read More
Top Foods for Managing Macular Degeneration

Top Foods for Managing Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration is the leading cause of irreversible vision loss in people over 60. Presently, it affects over 10 million people in the country. As one gets older, the risk of developing the condition increases, and so those over 75 have a nearly 33% risk of being diagnosed with macular degeneration. While the disease does not have a permanent cure, a few treatment options and the following nutrient-rich foods can help one manage the symptoms. Whole grains, beans, and dairy Zinc is a vital mineral that helps in the absorption of vitamin A, which aids in melanin production, a pigment that protects the eye. This is why most sight-related issues, such as cataracts or poor night sight, are related to zinc deficiency. Research suggests those with high AMD risk can slow the progression of the disease by adding zinc and some antioxidants to their daily meals. Some great zinc sources are whole grains, dairy products, and beans. Even though one can find zinc supplements in the market, the products might intervene with the body’s ability to absorb copper. So, if one meets their daily zinc requirements via supplements, they opt for copper supplements too. However, before introducing such changes to one’s meal plans, one must discuss them with a nutritionist or a doctor. Nuts and seeds Omega-3 fatty acids provide the body with the nourishment to combat inflammation and are great for eye health. A few excellent omega-3 sources are flaxseed, chia seeds, walnuts, flaxseed oil, soybean oil, and canola oil. These foods can help lower bad cholesterol in the body, typically associated with increasing the risk of macular degeneration. Oranges Folate is a B vitamin and aids in cell replication. People who have a substantial folate intake show signs of slow eye disease progression. One can meet the body’s folate requirements by choosing foods like peanuts, orange juice, oranges, Brussels Sprouts, black-eyed peas, grains, and spinach.
Read More
Top 6 Liquid Detergents for Seniors

Top 6 Liquid Detergents for Seniors

If you’re like most people, doing laundry is presumably not your preferred chore. It’s time-consuming and often requires multiple steps. However, one way to make laundry easier is to use a liquid detergent designed specifically for seniors. Liquid laundry detergents are becoming increasingly popular because they are easy to use and can be stored conveniently. They are less likely to cause skin irritation than powder detergents. Below are the top six liquid detergents for seniors. Benefits of using liquid detergents Liquid detergents are an excellent choice for many reasons. Liquid detergents work better than powders because they can penetrate the fabric more efficiently and remove dirt, dust, and stains from the fabric’s surface. They also have a low environmental impact because they do not contain harsh chemicals that can harm the environment. Liquid detergents are also easy to use. You must pour them into your washing machine and wash your clothes. And if you want to save the detergent; liquid detergents come in bottles that allow you to measure how much soap is needed per load. Most liquid detergents are biodegradable, which reduces waste disposal costs and helps protect our environment. Finally, liquid detergents leave your clothes feeling soft and silky after washing them. This is because they dissolve water-soluble fibers in the fabric, which causes them to be drawn out by the washer’s spin cycle. Why should seniors choose their liquid detergents carefully? Our skin becomes sensitive and prone to dryness and irritation as we age. That’s why choosing a liquid detergent designed for seniors is crucial. Look for one that is hypoallergenic and free of fragrances, dyes, and other harsh chemicals. A good senior-friendly liquid detergent will keep your skin clean and refreshed. Top 6 senior-friendly liquid detergents Charlie’s soap natural liquid laundry detergent It is a safe, effective, and affordable option for those seeking an alternative to conventional laundry detergents.
Read More
10 Amazing Laundry Detergents For Daily Needs

10 Amazing Laundry Detergents For Daily Needs

Laundry is an essential daily routine task, which can sometimes get tiresome. With a suitable laundry detergent, your clothes will come clean and smell fresh. Moreover, your laundry detergent should be practical and cruelty-free. To make your purchasing decision easier, here is a list of the top ten highly efficient laundry detergent options and their highlighting features. So, if you want to make your daily laundry tasks easier, read on. Method 8X laundry detergent There are a lot of laundry detergents on the market these days, and it can take a lot of work to single out the right for you. If you’re looking for a highly efficient option, Method 8X laundry detergent is a great choice. This detergent comes in a pump bottle, and it’s able to handle 50 loads of laundry. It’s also very affordable, costing just $14.58 for 20 fl oz. Additionally, it is allergen-free. This ultra-concentrated (8x) formula is plant-based and cruelty-free, making it an excellent choice among eco-friendly options. Moreover, the smart-clean technology ensures that your clothes come out clean and fresh with every wash. Earth Breeze eco sheets This detergent is made with natural ingredients and is available for $20 for 60 loads of laundry. It comes in a convenient 2-pack to clean your clothes without spending too much money. And if that’s not enough, it also has certified organic status, meaning its ingredients are sourced from plants that are certified organic by an accredited body. These sheets are made with phosphate-free and biodegradable ingredients, so you can feel good about using them without harming the planet. This detergent is safe for machine and hand washing, making it an excellent option for anyone who wants to avoid harsh chemicals. They are also paraben-free, making them a perfect choice for sensitive skin. Additionally, they’re highly efficient in removing the toughest stains from all kinds of fabrics, meaning you’ll use less detergent overall and save money in the long run.
Read More
11 Practical Tips For Managing Anxiety

11 Practical Tips For Managing Anxiety

Have you experienced your heart racing faster as a response to a stressful situation? Did your palms ever get clammy when confronted with an overwhelming event or task? These are all typical symptoms of anxiety. It is your body’s natural response to stress and gets triggered by an event, a memory, or by a multitude of things in general. It is essential to identify your triggers and seek ways to cope with or manage anxiety. 11 tried and tested ways to manage anxiety Practice deep breathing Deep breathing increases the supply of oxygen to the brain and helps calm the system down. So, if you feel yourself becoming tense, inhale and exhale multiple times, and you will feel relaxed. It is an excellent activity to slow down and recenter your mind. Write down your thoughts Maintaining a journal to regularly jot your thoughts on paper or in the notes app can help you process your emotions. It also paradoxically eases anxiety. When you dump the thoughts hovering in your head on the paper, you can string them apart and try and get a new perspective. It is known as cognitive defusion, wherein you develop an observer or witness perspective for your thoughts. From the mindfulness perspective, it is decentering, a skill vital for change. It also helps better your meta-cognition skills, which helps with cognitive flexibility, quintessential for mental fitness. Repeat it till you overcome it Do you have a fear of going on the stage? You may be able to get rid of it if you continually push yourself. So, go on the stage repeatedly and perform. Of course, you will be very anxious at first, but over time it will reduce and stop bothering you eventually. So, take the troublesome route and do it over and over again.
Read More
Key Things to Know Before Getting Dental Implants

Key Things to Know Before Getting Dental Implants

Dental implants are becoming increasingly popular among those looking to replace missing teeth. These implants are strong and durable and look just like natural teeth. Moreover, the procedure is simple. If you, too, are considering dental implants, it is essential to know all the facts before making an appointment with the dentist. This article discusses a few essential things you need to know about implants, from their types to the benefits they offer. What are dental implants? These are artificial teeth recommended for those with missing or damaged original teeth. The implants are affixed by dentists using a few tools. The look-alikes are made using biocompatible materials, such as titanium or zirconia, which blend with the bone over time. Dental implants are a long-term solution for replacing teeth. They are often considered the best option for people who cannot restore their teeth function using traditional methods, such as dentures or bridges. However, implants may need to be replaced if they wear down or are moved out of position due to chewing or dental issues. What are the steps involved in affixing dental implants? When considering dental implants, it is essential to understand the steps involved in the process. Dental surgery is complex and delicate and requires careful planning and execution. Here are the steps to be followed: Evaluation During this stage, your dentist will evaluate your teeth and determine which type of implant best suits you. This includes taking X-rays and performing a physical examination. Teeth extraction If necessary, the doctor will remove all your teeth before beginning the implant process. This is necessary to ensure no debris or other objects get in the way of implant placement. Grating After your teeth have been extracted, the dentist will use a special grater to create tiny grooves in each tooth surface.
Read More