A well-known fact about cats is how clean they are, as they clean themselves regularly. You may never have thought about bathing your cat, but it’s sometimes necessary to give them a little help and bathe them yourself. If your cat is covered in something sticky, smelly or if they have picked something up, it’s best to give them a bath and keep them clean. Here are our tips to keep your feline looking, feeling and smelling fresh.
How To Wash A Cat
Start With Your Cats Claws
Their form of defence is their claws, so it’s best to focus on these before you put your cat straight into a stream of water. Keep the atmosphere calm and focused so you can trim your cats claws appropriately. We recommend using specific cat nail clippers to cut your cats nails with. If you're wanting to know the best way to cut your cats claws why not check out our blog on how to trim your cat's claws?
Brush Them First
Once you’re happy with your cats claws, give your cat a brush over, removing any excess hair sitting in your cats coat. Cats shed all year round, so getting the excess hair from them will ensure for a more efficient bath time.
Introducing The Bath
Generally your cat won’t enjoy the bathing process and won’t be willing if they’re hungry or tired. So, try to time the grooming just right in their day, so they’ll be more comfortable throughout. You may want to play with them beforehand, or even offer them some catnip.
Bathing
If you don’t have a rubber bathmat, fold a towel and place it on the bottom of the bath so your cat has something sturdy to stand on. Fill the bath with a couple of inches of lukewarm water and place your cat in the water. You may need a second pair of hands to help with washing.
Shampooing
Do not use human shampoo on your cats fur, use a specially designed cat shampoo to avoid any unnecessary trips to the vet. Start at your cats neck and work your way over their body to finish with the shampooing of their tail. It’s unlikely your cat will go under the water, so use a jug to pour clean water over them to rinse out all of the shampoo.
Washing Their Face
We don’t recommend pouring water over your cats face and ears, instead, use a clean damp cloth to wipe over their face to clean.
Drying
Dry your cat fully and brush through if your cat needs it. Our Drying Mitts are great for lifting your cat out of the bath and drying them straight away.
Finally, don’t forget to finish with a really tasty, high reward treat. Treats and praise will make the while process more enjoyable for your cat, and they may let you bathe them again!
A well-known fact about cats is how clean they are, as they clean themselves regularly. You may never have thought about bathing your cat, but it’s sometimes necessary to give them a little help and bathe them yourself. If your cat is covered in something sticky, smelly or if they have picked something up, it’s best to give them a bath and keep them clean. Here are our tips to keep your feline looking, feeling and smelling fresh.
How To Wash A Cat
Start With Your Cats Claws
Their form of defence is their claws, so it’s best to focus on these before you put your cat straight into a stream of water. Keep the atmosphere calm and focused so you can trim your cats claws appropriately. We recommend using specific cat nail clippers to cut your cats nails with. If you're wanting to know the best way to cut your cats claws why not check out our blog on how to trim your cat's claws?
Brush Them First
Once you’re happy with your cats claws, give your cat a brush over, removing any excess hair sitting in your cats coat. Cats shed all year round, so getting the excess hair from them will ensure for a more efficient bath time.
Introducing The Bath
Generally your cat won’t enjoy the bathing process and won’t be willing if they’re hungry or tired. So, try to time the grooming just right in their day, so they’ll be more comfortable throughout. You may want to play with them beforehand, or even offer them some catnip.
Bathing
If you don’t have a rubber bathmat, fold a towel and place it on the bottom of the bath so your cat has something sturdy to stand on. Fill the bath with a couple of inches of lukewarm water and place your cat in the water. You may need a second pair of hands to help with washing.
Shampooing
Do not use human shampoo on your cats fur, use a specially designed cat shampoo to avoid any unnecessary trips to the vet. Start at your cats neck and work your way over their body to finish with the shampooing of their tail. It’s unlikely your cat will go under the water, so use a jug to pour clean water over them to rinse out all of the shampoo.
Washing Their Face
We don’t recommend pouring water over your cats face and ears, instead, use a clean damp cloth to wipe over their face to clean.
Drying
Dry your cat fully and brush through if your cat needs it. Our Drying Mitts are great for lifting your cat out of the bath and drying them straight away.
Finally, don’t forget to finish with a really tasty, high reward treat. Treats and praise will make the while process more enjoyable for your cat, and they may let you bathe them again!
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Dogs are incredibly expressive creatures, using their body language to communicate their feelings, needs, and even warnings. Whether you’re a new dog owner or have been sharing your life with dogs for years, reading dog body language is essential for strengthening your bond and ensuring their well-being.
In this guide, we'll explore the key signs of canine body language, from relaxed and happy signals to stressed and aggressive body postures. By understanding your dog’s body behaviour, you’ll be better equipped to respond appropriately and create a trusting relationship with your furry companion.
1. Dog Relaxed Body Language: Signs of a Happy Pup
A relaxed and content dog is easy to spot when you know what to look for. These are the key indicators of a dog in a calm and happy state:
Loose, wagging tail – A gently wagging tail at a medium height is a sign of happiness. The faster and more enthusiastic the wag, the more excited they are.
Soft eyes and relaxed ears – A happy dog’s eyes will be slightly squinted or almond-shaped, and their ears will rest naturally.
Loose, wiggly body – A relaxed dog moves fluidly, with no stiffness in their posture.
Play bow – When a dog lowers their front legs and keeps their rear up in the air, it’s an invitation to play!
2. Dog Submissive Body Language: Understanding Respect and Deference
Dogs use submissive body language to show deference, avoid conflict, or express trust. While submission isn’t necessarily a bad thing, frequent or extreme submission can indicate anxiety.
Exposed belly – Rolling over to show their stomach is a sign of submission or trust.
Tucked tail – A tail tucked between the legs can indicate submission or nervousness.
Averted gaze – Looking away from another dog or person is a sign of non-aggression and submission.
Licking lips or nose – A dog licking their lips when not eating is often showing submissiveness or appeasement.
3. Stressed Dog Body Language: Recognising Anxiety and Discomfort
Just like humans, dogs experience stress. Recognising these signs can help you intervene before your dog becomes overwhelmed. If your dog frequently exhibits these behaviours, consider reading our guide on how to support a dog with anxiety.
Panting when not hot – Excessive panting can be a stress response.
Yawning when not sleepy – Dogs yawn to release stress and tension.
Pacing or restlessness – Repetitive movement or difficulty settling can indicate anxiety.
Whale eye – When a dog shows the whites of their eyes, it’s often a sign of stress or discomfort.
4. Aggressive Dog Body Language: Warning Signs to Watch For
Aggression in dogs is often a last resort when they feel threatened or cornered. It’s important to recognise these warning signals early:
Stiff, rigid posture – A dog standing tall and stiff is showing a sign of dominance or aggression.
Ears pinned back or forward – Pinned-back ears may indicate fear-based aggression, while forward-facing ears show assertiveness.
Growling or baring teeth – These are clear warnings that a dog feels threatened and may escalate to biting if ignored.
Raised hackles – The hair along a dog’s back standing up is a sign of arousal, fear, or aggression.
If your dog frequently exhibits aggressive behaviour, it’s important to assess their environment, training, and triggers. It’s worth consulting a behaviourist or your vet early when your dog starts displaying these behaviours so you can get to the root of the problem before it escalates.
Dog Language Tail: What Does a Wag Really Mean?
A dog’s tail is one of the most expressive parts of their body, but tail wagging doesn’t always mean they’re happy.
Slow wag with stiff posture – This may signal caution or uncertainty.
Low, fast wag – A sign of nervous excitement or submission.
High, rigid wag – This can indicate alertness or potential aggression.
Full-body wag – A relaxed, wiggly wag often means excitement and happiness!
Communication Dog Body Language: How Dogs Interact with Humans and Other Dogs
Dogs communicate differently with people and fellow canines. Understanding these nuances can help prevent misinterpretations.
Leaning into you – A sign of affection, trust, or seeking comfort.
Paw lift – In some breeds, a raised paw indicates curiosity or focus.
Jumping up – While often seen as excitement, jumping can also be a sign of seeking attention or dominance.
Mouthing – Light nibbling can be playful, but if firm, it may be a sign of overstimulation or frustration.
How to Support Your Dog’s Emotional Well-being
Ensuring your dog feels safe and understood is key to a strong relationship. If you notice frequent signs of stress or anxiety, consider checking out our guide on dog depression and how to keep your dog happy and healthy.
At Lords & Labradors, we offer a range of calming dog essentials, including cosy beds, anxiety-relief toys, and interactive games to keep your pup mentally stimulated and content.
Final Thoughts
Reading dog body language is a skill that improves with time and observation. By paying attention to your dog’s body posture, tail movements, and facial expressions, you’ll develop a deeper understanding of their emotions and needs.
Whether your dog is relaxed, excited, stressed, or showing signs of aggression, being able to interpret their signals allows you to respond appropriately and strengthen your bond.
Explore our range of anxious dog essentials at Lords & Labradors to ensure your pup feels happy, safe, and understood!
Bringing a new puppy home is an exciting experience, but it also comes with a lot of decisions—especially when it comes to nutrition. With so many options available, from puppy dry dog food to wet puppy food, raw diets, and everything in between, it can be tricky to know what’s best for your new furry friend.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about choosing the best puppy food to support your pup’s growth, energy levels, and overall health.
Why Puppy Food Matters
Puppies grow at a rapid pace, and their nutritional needs are different from adult dogs. The right diet ensures they develop strong bones, muscles, and a healthy immune system. Unlike adult dog food, good puppy food is formulated with higher levels of protein, fat, and essential nutrients to support their development.
When selecting the right food for your puppy, there are a few key things to consider
Age and breed size – Different breeds grow at different rates. Large breeds need food that supports joint health, while smaller breeds require kibble that’s easier to chew.
Food type – Should you choose puppy dry dog food, wet dog food for puppies, or even raw puppy food? We’ll explore the options below.
Digestive needs – Some puppies have sensitive stomachs and need specially formulated food.
Nutritional balance – The food should contain high-quality protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.
Different Types of Puppy Food
Each type of puppy food has its own benefits. Here’s a closer look at the most popular options:
Puppy Dry Dog Food (Kibble)
Puppy dry dog food is one of the most common choices for new pet parents. It’s convenient, has a long shelf life, and helps keep your pup’s teeth clean. High-quality kibble should be rich in protein, with no artificial additives or fillers.
Pros: Easy to store, helps with dental health, cost-effective Cons: Less moisture, may not appeal to fussy eaters
Wet Puppy Food & Canned Puppy Food
Wet puppy food, also known as canned puppy food, is a great option if your pup prefers softer textures. It’s rich in moisture, which helps keep puppies hydrated, and tends to be more palatable for picky eaters.
Pros: High moisture content, more appealing taste, easy to digest Cons: Can be messy, shorter shelf life once opened
Raw Puppy Food
Some pet owners choose a raw puppy food diet, which consists of fresh, unprocessed meats, bones, and organs. Advocates say it mirrors what dogs would eat in the wild and can lead to a shinier coat and better digestion. However, raw diets require careful planning to ensure they meet your puppy’s nutritional needs.
Pros: Natural ingredients, potential health benefits Cons: Requires preparation, risk of bacteria if not handled properly
Puppy Milk & Weaning Puppies
When puppies are very young, they rely on their mother’s milk for essential nutrients. If you’re hand-rearing a pup or supporting a litter, puppy milk can be a helpful supplement. As puppies grow, they begin weaning onto solid food, usually between 3-4 weeks old. Softened kibble or wet puppy food can make this transition smoother.
Choosing the Best Puppy Food for Sensitive Stomachs
Just like humans, some puppies have food sensitivities or allergies. If your pup experiences digestive issues like gas, diarrhoea, or vomiting, they may need puppy food for sensitive stomachs. Look for:
Easily digestible proteins like chicken or turkey
Limited ingredients to reduce the risk of allergies
No artificial additives, grains, or fillers
The Orijen range of puppy food is great for sensitive puppies as it mirrors the rich, fresh variety of WholePrey meats that your puppy would have eaten in the wild with no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives. It has a really high protein content too which is perfect for supporting your growing puppy.
Puppy Treats & Biscuits: A Tasty Reward
Training your puppy is much easier with the help of puppy treats! These little rewards help reinforce positive behaviour and build a strong bond between you and your furry friend. Opt for puppy biscuits that are specially formulated for young dogs to ensure they’re easy to chew and digest. We love The Innocent Hound Puppy Training treats, they have a simple grain free and single protein recipe which makes them easy on your puppy’s tummy.
How to Transition to a New Puppy Food
If you need to switch your puppy’s diet, it’s important to do so gradually. A sudden change can upset their stomach, so follow this process:
Days 1-2: 75% old food, 25% new food
Days 3-4: 50% old food, 50% new food
Days 5-6: 25% old food, 75% new food
Day 7: Fully switched to new food
If your puppy experiences any digestive upset, slow down the transition and consult your vet.
Final Thoughts
Finding the best puppy food for your furry friend might take a little trial and error, but ensuring they get the right nutrition is one of the best things you can do for their health. Whether you opt for dry puppy food, wet dog food for puppies, or even raw puppy food, always choose high-quality ingredients that support their growth.
Discover Premium Puppy Food & Essentials at Lords & Labradors
At Lords & Labradors, we offer a carefully curated selection of good puppy food, training treats, and feeding essentials to give your pup the best start in life. Explore our range today and find the perfect nutrition for your growing companion! Not sure on where to start with feeding your puppy? Chat to our friendly team of Pet Experts, they all have years of pet owning experience so have all the best tips and tricks for transitioning your puppy’s food.
Ever wondered why your feline friend has those long, delicate whiskers framing their adorable face? Cat whiskers, or "kitty whiskers," aren't just for show—they're an essential part of a cat's sensory system, helping them navigate the world with precision and grace. In this blog, we'll explore the fascinating purpose of cat whiskers, why they're found on different parts of their body, and how to care for them properly.
The Purpose of Cat Whiskers
Cat whiskers, scientifically known as vibrissae, are much more than just charming accessories on your cat's face. These specialised hairs are deeply embedded in the skin and connected to sensitive nerve endings, allowing cats to detect even the slightest changes in their surroundings. Here are a few reasons why cats have whiskers:
Navigation Aid: Cats use their whiskers to measure gaps and spaces, ensuring they can squeeze through tight spots without getting stuck.
Hunting Assistance: Whiskers help detect movement in low-light conditions, making them invaluable for stalking prey.
Emotional Barometer: The position of your cat's whiskers can reveal their mood—forward-facing whiskers indicate curiosity, while whiskers pinned back suggest fear or aggression.
Spatial Awareness: Whiskers on the legs, known as carpal whiskers, help cats judge distances and land gracefully after a jump.
Cat Whiskers Aren't Just on Their Face!
While cat face whiskers are the most noticeable, did you know that cats have whiskers in other places too? They can be found:
Above Their Eyes: These "cat eye whiskers" act as an early warning system to protect their eyes from debris and obstacles.
On Their Legs: Leg whiskers help detect objects in their path while climbing or hunting.
Near Their Paws: Aiding in tactile sensitivity when walking on unfamiliar surfaces.
What Happens If a Cat Loses Whiskers?
It’s natural for a cat to shed whiskers occasionally, just like regular fur. However, excessive whisker loss could signal underlying health concerns such as stress, allergies, or infections. If you notice your cat losing whiskers more frequently than usual, it's best to consult your vet.
Signs to Watch For:
Bald patches where whiskers used to be
Reluctance to explore or jump
Increased clumsiness
Should You Trim Cat Whiskers?
No, trimming cat whiskers is a big no-no! Whiskers are crucial for a cat's well-being, and cutting them can disorient your furry friend, affecting their ability to navigate and sense their environment. If you notice damaged or broken whiskers, let them fall out naturally—they will grow back in due time.
Whisker Stress: Some cats experience "whisker fatigue" or "whisker stress" when their sensitive whiskers touch the sides of food and water bowls. Using specially designed cat saucers can help reduce discomfort and ensure stress-free mealtimes.
How to Care for Your Cat's Whiskers
Taking care of your cat's whiskers is simple yet essential to their overall happiness. Here are a few tips:
Choose the Right Bowls: Avoid deep, narrow bowls that can cause whisker stress. Opt for shallow cat saucers like the Tarhong cat saucers which come in a fun range of patterns and colours!
Gentle Grooming: Avoid touching or pulling whiskers unnecessarily.
Stress-Free Environment: Provide a calm and whisker-friendly home setup to prevent over-stimulation.
Final Thoughts
Cat whiskers are an incredible feature that helps our feline friends explore the world confidently and safely. From aiding in navigation to expressing emotions, they play an important role in your cat's daily life. Be sure to keep those whiskers happy with the right care, and check out Lords & Labradors' range of cat saucers to prevent whisker stress and keep mealtimes comfortable.
Explore our collection of cat essentials at Lords & Labradors and give your furry friend the luxury they deserve!
Ensuring your feline friend enjoys a healthy diet is one of the most important aspects of cat ownership. Whether you have a playful kitten, an active adult, or a serene senior, providing a balanced diet for cats is key to their overall health and happiness. But with so many options available, how do you choose the best food for your cat? Let's break it down and help you create a nutritious plan for your furry companion.
Understanding a Balanced Diet for Cats
Cats are obligate carnivores, which means their bodies are naturally designed to thrive on a meat-based diet. A healthy cat diet should include:
High-Quality Protein: Essential for muscle growth and repair. Look for foods with real meat like chicken, turkey, or fish.
Healthy Fats: Provide energy and support skin and coat health.
Essential Vitamins and Minerals: Taurine, vitamin A, and fatty acids are crucial for eye health, heart function, and overall well-being.
Hydration: Cats often get their moisture from their food, making hydration a key component of their diet.
Wet vs. Dry Food: Which is Best?
Choosing between wet vs. dry food for cats can be tricky, but both have their benefits:
Wet Food: Higher moisture content, which can help keep your cat hydrated. It's often more palatable and can be a good option for picky eaters.
Dry Food: Convenient and helps maintain dental health by reducing plaque buildup. It's great for free-feeding but should be balanced with water intake.
Many cat owners find that a combination of wet and dry food provides the perfect balance of taste, texture, and nutrition.
Healthy Food for Cats at Different Life Stages
Each stage of your cat's life comes with different nutritional needs.
Kittens
Growing kittens need a diet rich in protein and fat to support their rapid development. Healthy kitten food should contain DHA for brain development and plenty of calories to fuel their playful energy. Look for specially formulated kitten food to ensure they get the right nutrients. Shop our range of nutritious kitten food to support your kitten's development here.
Adult Cats
An adult cat's diet should focus on maintaining a healthy weight and providing sustained energy. Cat food low in calories can be beneficial for less active cats to prevent weight gain, while active cats may need higher protein levels to support their lifestyle. For higher protein cat foods look at brands like Acana and Orijen which have high levels of real meat content in their food and for low-calorie options look at our weight control cat food collection.
Senior Cats
Older cats require a diet that supports joint health and digestion. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids and easily digestible proteins can help maintain their quality of life. Shop our senior cat food collection here.
Healthy Cat Snacks and Treats
While it's tempting to spoil your cat with treats, it's important to ensure they are part of a healthy cat diet. Opt for healthy cat snacks that offer added benefits such as dental health support or hairball control. Avoid treats high in artificial fillers and instead choose options rich in protein and natural ingredients. We love The Innocent Cat treats for cat treats which are full of good ingredients for your cat.
Signs Your Cat Might Need a Diet Change
If you notice any of the following signs, it might be time to reassess your cat's diet:
Weight gain or loss
Dull coat or excessive shedding
Lack of energy or changes in behaviour
Digestive issues such as vomiting or diarrhoea
Consulting your vet and adjusting their diet accordingly can help keep your cat in tip-top shape.
Choosing the Right Cat Food
A balanced diet for cats is essential for their overall health, longevity, and happiness. Whether you're choosing between wet or dry food, selecting the right treats, or adjusting their diet as they age, making informed choices will help your cat thrive.
When selecting food, always look for high-quality ingredients and avoid artificial additives or excessive fillers. At Lords & Labradors, we offer a range of premium cat food options designed to meet your pet's specific dietary needs. From cat food low in calories to nutritious healthy kitten food, we have everything you need to support your cat's well-being from all the best-selling cat food brands.
