14.06.24 June 14, 2024 Getting A Kitten

Kitten Checklist: Everything You Need For Your Kitten

Bringing a new kitten into your home is such an exciting and joyful time. These tiny, curious creatures can bring immense happiness, but there’s also a few items which you need to get to prepare for their arrival. Whether you are a first-time cat owner or adding another feline friend to your family, having a comprehensive checklist for kittens is essential. Our Pet Experts have put together this guide to walk you through everything you need for your kitten, covering all the kitten essentials to ensure a smooth transition into your home. 10 Things You Need To Know Before Bringing Home A Kitten 1. Preparing Your Home: A Safe Haven Before your kitten arrives, it's crucial to kitten-proof your home. Kittens are naturally curious and love to explore their surroundings. To prevent any accidents, remove or secure items that could be hazardous. Kitten Essentials for Home Safety: Secure Loose Wires: Kittens love to chew on things, so make sure to secure electrical cords and wires. Block Small Spaces: Use barriers to block off small gaps where kittens might get stuck. Remove Toxic Plants: Many common houseplants are toxic to cats. Try to keep any house plants out of your kittens way. If you’re not sure on what plants cats are allergic to check out our blog on what plants are poisonous to cats. 2. Comfortable Living Space Your kitten needs a cosy and safe space to rest, getting them a cosy bed or a blanket to curl up in whilst they nap will help them to settle into their new home. Things You Need for a Kitten’s Living Space: Cat Bed: Choose a soft, comfortable bed where your kitten can sleep and relax. Blankets: Soft blankets can provide extra warmth and comfort. Here are Lords & Labradors we specialise in luxury pet bedding, from gorgeous high wall beds to cocoon your kitten to sleep to cosy blankets to cuddle up in. Shop now 3. Feeding Essentials A well-balanced diet is crucial for your kitten's growth and health. Investing in the right feeding supplies is a must. Feeding Essentials for a New Kitten: High-Quality Kitten Food: Opt for food specifically formulated for kittens, as they have different nutritional needs compared to adult cats. We particularly love the Carnilove cat foods, they contain 70% fresh meat and are grain and potato free so you know you’re feeding your kitten the best. Food and Water Bowls: These are an essential, it may be a little bit of trial and error to find what suits your kitten as cats can be fussy. Some cats prefer a saucer whereas others prefer a bowl, some cats even prefer a water fountain to drink from. 4. Litter Training Litter training your kitten is one of the first tasks you'll need to undertake. The right litter supplies can make this process easier. Kitten Litter Training Checklist: Litter Tray: A low-sided tray is ideal for kittens to easily access. Litter: Clumping litter is often preferred, but ensure it's safe for kittens. Litter Scoop: For easy cleaning and maintenance. Not a fan of the look of a litter tray? Our cat washrooms are designed to hide your cat’s litter tray as well as give them a little bit of privacy. They come in two colours, white and grey, and are designed to look like they are part of your home. 5. Grooming Supplies Regular grooming is essential to keep your kitten healthy and looking their best. Start grooming your kitten early to get them accustomed to the routine. Depending on your kitten’s fur type, a brush or comb will help keep their coat smooth and free of tangles. 6. Health and Wellness Keeping your kitten healthy involves regular vet care and some essential health supplies at home. Health Essentials for Your Kitten: Vet Visits: Schedule your first vet appointment soon after bringing your kitten home. Vaccinations and Medications: Follow your vet’s advice on necessary vaccinations and medications. Flea and Tick Prevention: Discuss with your vet the best options for flea and tick prevention. 7. Playtime and Exercise Kittens are full of energy and need plenty of playtime to stay happy and healthy. Make sure you have a range of toys and activities to keep them entertained. Playtime Essentials for a New Kitten: Interactive Toys: Toys like feather wands and laser pointers can keep your kitten active and engaged. We particularly love the Catit circuits, there’s lots of additions you can make to the circuit to keep it fun for your kitten. Scratching Posts: These help kittens satisfy their natural scratching instincts while saving your furniture. Cat Trees: Multi-level cat trees offer climbing and perching opportunities. Getting a larger cat tree for them to climb as well as scratch will also fulfil your cat’s desire to be up high. Check out our range of cat trees here. 8. Socialisation and Training Early socialisation and training can help your kitten grow into a well-behaved and confident cat. Spend time interacting with your kitten to build trust and companionship. Socialisation and Training Tips: Positive Reinforcement: Use treats and praise to reward good behaviour. Handling: Gently handle your kitten regularly to get them used to being touched and held. Visitors: It’s a good idea to get your kitten used to you having people over, especially if you have a busy household. 9. Travel Essentials If you plan to travel with your kitten, having the right supplies can make the journey more comfortable for both of you. Travel Essentials for Kittens: Cat Carrier: A secure, comfortable carrier is essential for trips to the vet or any travel. We love the Cabrio Cat Carrier for transporting our cats. Travel Bowls: Collapsible bowls are convenient for food and water on the go, especially if you’ve got a long journey home with your cat. 10. Identification and Safety Ensuring your kitten's safety is paramount. Proper identification can help in case your kitten gets lost. Identification Essentials: Collar and ID Tag: A breakaway collar with an ID tag can help identify your kitten if they wander off. Microchipping: It’s now a legal requirement here in the UK for all cats to be microchipped by the time they are 5 months old and there are fines if your cat is found without a microchip. So it’s a good idea to get your kitten microchipped fairly quickly after you bring them home. Conclusion Bringing home a new kitten is a delightful experience, but it requires preparation and the right supplies to ensure your pet’s well-being. By following this comprehensive kitten checklist, you can create a safe, comfortable, and loving environment for your new furry friend. Remember, the initial investment in these kitten essentials will pay off in the form of a healthy, happy, and well-adjusted cat. Welcome to the wonderful world of pet kittens! For more advice on kitten care and to shop for high-quality kitten products, shop our cat emporium here.

By Megan Willis

10 Things You Need To Know Before Bringing Home A Kitten

1. Preparing Your Home: A Safe Haven

Before your kitten arrives, it's crucial to kitten-proof your home. Kittens are naturally curious and love to explore their surroundings. To prevent any accidents, remove or secure items that could be hazardous.

Kitten Essentials for Home Safety:

Secure Loose Wires: Kittens love to chew on things, so make sure to secure electrical cords and wires.
Block Small Spaces: Use barriers to block off small gaps where kittens might get stuck.
Remove Toxic Plants: Many common houseplants are toxic to cats. Try to keep any house plants out of your kittens way. If you’re not sure on what plants cats are allergic to check out our blog on what plants are poisonous to cats.

2. Comfortable Living Space

Your kitten needs a cosy and safe space to rest, getting them a cosy bed or a blanket to curl up in whilst they nap will help them to settle into their new home.

Things You Need for a Kitten’s Living Space:

Cat Bed: Choose a soft, comfortable bed where your kitten can sleep and relax.
Blankets: Soft blankets can provide extra warmth and comfort.

Here are Lords & Labradors we specialise in luxury pet bedding, from gorgeous high wall beds to cocoon your kitten to sleep to cosy blankets to cuddle up in. Shop now

3. Feeding Essentials

A well-balanced diet is crucial for your kitten's growth and health. Investing in the right feeding supplies is a must.

Feeding Essentials for a New Kitten:

High-Quality Kitten Food: Opt for food specifically formulated for kittens, as they have different nutritional needs compared to adult cats. We particularly love the Carnilove cat foods, they contain 70% fresh meat and are grain and potato free so you know you’re feeding your kitten the best.
Food and Water Bowls: These are an essential, it may be a little bit of trial and error to find what suits your kitten as cats can be fussy. Some cats prefer a saucer whereas others prefer a bowl, some cats even prefer a water fountain to drink from.

4. Litter Training

Litter training your kitten is one of the first tasks you'll need to undertake. The right litter supplies can make this process easier.

Kitten Litter Training Checklist:

Litter Tray: A low-sided tray is ideal for kittens to easily access.
Litter: Clumping litter is often preferred, but ensure it's safe for kittens.
Litter Scoop: For easy cleaning and maintenance.

Not a fan of the look of a litter tray? Our cat washrooms are designed to hide your cat’s litter tray as well as give them a little bit of privacy. They come in two colours, white and grey, and are designed to look like they are part of your home.

5. Grooming Supplies

Regular grooming is essential to keep your kitten healthy and looking their best. Start grooming your kitten early to get them accustomed to the routine. Depending on your kitten’s fur type, a brush or comb will help keep their coat smooth and free of tangles.

6. Health and Wellness

Keeping your kitten healthy involves regular vet care and some essential health supplies at home.

Health Essentials for Your Kitten:

Vet Visits: Schedule your first vet appointment soon after bringing your kitten home.
Vaccinations and Medications: Follow your vet’s advice on necessary vaccinations and medications.
Flea and Tick Prevention: Discuss with your vet the best options for flea and tick prevention.

7. Playtime and Exercise

Kittens are full of energy and need plenty of playtime to stay happy and healthy. Make sure you have a range of toys and activities to keep them entertained.

Playtime Essentials for a New Kitten:

Interactive Toys: Toys like feather wands and laser pointers can keep your kitten active and engaged. We particularly love the Catit circuits, there’s lots of additions you can make to the circuit to keep it fun for your kitten.
Scratching Posts: These help kittens satisfy their natural scratching instincts while saving your furniture.
Cat Trees: Multi-level cat trees offer climbing and perching opportunities. Getting a larger cat tree for them to climb as well as scratch will also fulfil your cat’s desire to be up high. Check out our range of cat trees here.

8. Socialisation and Training

Early socialisation and training can help your kitten grow into a well-behaved and confident cat. Spend time interacting with your kitten to build trust and companionship.

Socialisation and Training Tips:

Positive Reinforcement: Use treats and praise to reward good behaviour.
Handling: Gently handle your kitten regularly to get them used to being touched and held.
Visitors: It’s a good idea to get your kitten used to you having people over, especially if you have a busy household.

9. Travel Essentials

If you plan to travel with your kitten, having the right supplies can make the journey more comfortable for both of you.

Travel Essentials for Kittens:

Cat Carrier: A secure, comfortable carrier is essential for trips to the vet or any travel. We love the Cabrio Cat Carrier for transporting our cats.
Travel Bowls: Collapsible bowls are convenient for food and water on the go, especially if you’ve got a long journey home with your cat.

10. Identification and Safety

Ensuring your kitten's safety is paramount. Proper identification can help in case your kitten gets lost.

Identification Essentials:

Collar and ID Tag: A breakaway collar with an ID tag can help identify your kitten if they wander off.
Microchipping: It’s now a legal requirement here in the UK for all cats to be microchipped by the time they are 5 months old and there are fines if your cat is found without a microchip. So it’s a good idea to get your kitten microchipped fairly quickly after you bring them home.

Conclusion

Bringing home a new kitten is a delightful experience, but it requires preparation and the right supplies to ensure your pet’s well-being. By following this comprehensive kitten checklist, you can create a safe, comfortable, and loving environment for your new furry friend. Remember, the initial investment in these kitten essentials will pay off in the form of a healthy, happy, and well-adjusted cat. Welcome to the wonderful world of pet kittens!

For more advice on kitten care and to shop for high-quality kitten products, shop our cat emporium here.

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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
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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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15.11.24 November 15, 2024 Owning a Cat

What Are You Getting Your Cat for Christmas?

As the festive season approaches, many of us are busy selecting the perfect gifts for our loved ones. But amidst the hustle and bustle, have you considered what to get your feline friend? Cats may not understand the concept of Christmas, but they certainly appreciate new toys, treats, and cosy accessories. This year, make your cat part of the festivities with some thoughtful cat Christmas presents from our Festive Feline collection that will keep them purring with delight. The Joy of Gifting Your Cat Cats bring endless joy and companionship into our lives. They greet us after a long day, entertain us with their playful antics, and offer comfort when we need it most. Christmas presents for your cat are more than just material items; they're a way to enrich their environment, stimulate their minds, and strengthen the bond you share. Top Christmas Present Ideas for Cats 1. Interactive Toys Interactive toys are excellent Christmas present ideas for cats who love to play and explore. Consider toys that mimic prey, such as feather wands or laser pointers, to tap into their natural hunting instincts. We have lots of fun Christmas toys for you to choose from for your cat, from festive mice themed toys to cute reindeers and Christmas trees. Puzzle toys that dispense treats can also provide mental stimulation and keep your cat engaged for hours, the Catit Senses 2.0 food tree is a great food dispensing toy that will appeal to your cat’s natural hunting instincts. 2. Cosy Beds and Blankets With winter's chill in the air, a plush bed or warm blanket makes a good cat Christmas present. Look for beds with high sides or hooded tops to create a secure, den-like environment. Our high wall beds for cats make the perfect den for them to snuggle in, the plush high walls are the cosiest for your cat to snuggle their head into. Heated pads or self-warming materials are perfect for older cats or those who love to bask in warmth. 3. Scratching Posts and Climbing Trees Get your cat their own tree this Christmas with one of our luxury cat trees. Cats need to scratch and climb—it's in their DNA. A new scratching post or climbing tree not only saves your furniture but also offers a place for exercise and relaxation. Opt for multi-level towers with perches, hammocks, and hiding spots for the ultimate Christmas present for the cat who loves to explore vertical spaces. Shop our range of cat trees and wall climbers to make your cat’s Christmas dreams come true. 4. Gourmet Treats and Premium Food Indulge your cat's taste buds with gourmet treats or a high-quality food upgrade. Natural, grain-free options or treats infused with catnip can be both delicious and beneficial for their health. Want to get some fun Christmas themed cat treats? Shop our Christmas dinner for cats collection to get the tastiest Christmas themed treats for your favourite festive feline. 5. Litter Robot 4 If you really want to spoil your cat this Christmas look no further than the Litter Robot 4. This is not only a present for your cat but a present for you too! You’ll never have to scoop your cat’s litter again. This is not just a litter tray, it’s a smart self-cleaning cat litter box that neutralises odours in real-time and reduces litter tracking. Designed for cats of all sizes, its unique technology guarantees a clean bed of litter with each use. It has app compatibility and an easy-to-access step make this a must-have for any cat owner. Now all there is to do is to pick which colour to get. Including Your Dog in the Festivities If you're a multi-pet household, you might be looking for dog and cat Christmas presents that both animals can enjoy. Shared toys, dual pet beds, or interactive feeders that encourage cooperative play can enhance the harmony between your furry companions. DIY Christmas Presents For a personal touch, consider making your own Christmas presents for your cat. DIY toys like yarn balls, cardboard box castles, or homemade treats allow you to customise gifts to your cat's preferences. Plus, crafting can be a fun holiday activity for the whole family. Safety Tips for Cat Gifts While shopping for good Christmas presents for cats, keep safety in mind: Avoid Small Parts: Ensure toys don't have small pieces that could be swallowed. Choose Non-Toxic Materials: Opt for items made from pet-safe materials. Supervise Playtime: Especially with new toys, supervise your cat to prevent accidents. Check for Allergies: Be cautious with new foods or treats if your cat has dietary sensitivities. Making Christmas Special for Your Cat Beyond gifts, there are other ways to make the holiday season special: Include Them in Traditions: Let your cat be part of the decorating (supervised, of course) or family photos. Create a Safe Space: With guests coming and going, ensure your cat has a quiet place to retreat. Maintain Routine: Stick to regular feeding and playtimes to reduce stress. Final thoughts on what to get your cat for christmas This holiday season, don't forget to place something under the tree for your whiskered companion. Whether it's an engaging toy, a cozy bed, or a delicious treat, the right Christmas present for your cat can make the festivities brighter for both of you. After all, the joy of Christmas is amplified when shared with those we love—furry friends included. So, what are you getting your cat for Christmas? With so many options available, you're sure to find the perfect gift that says "Thank you for being part of my life."At Lords & Labradors, we offer a curated selection of premium pet products that make ideal Christmas presents. Explore our range to find the perfect gift for your cat and make this holiday season truly memorable.

By Megan Willis
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12.11.24 November 12, 2024 Owning a Cat

Make an Advent Calendar for Your Cat This Christmas

Christmas is a magical time filled with joy, laughter, and the spirit of giving. As we prepare our homes with decorations and gifts, our feline friends often watch with curiosity and intrigue. This year, why not make your cat a part of the festive countdown by creating a personalised advent calendar? Not only will it bring daily excitement to your pet, but it also strengthens the bond you share. Here's how you can craft the perfect advent calendar for your cat and make this Christmas truly unforgettable. Why Create a Cat Advent Calendar? Stimulation: Cats are naturally curious creatures that love exploration and surprises. An advent calendar tailored for your cat taps into these instincts, providing mental stimulation and physical activity. Daily Engagement: Each day offers a new treat or toy, keeping your cat engaged and entertained. Strengthen Bonds: Sharing this daily ritual enhances your relationship and creates lasting memories. Customisation: You can tailor the contents to suit your cat's preferences, including special items for kittens if you have a younger feline. Materials You'll Need Before you start, gather the following materials: Calendar Base: A fabric advent calendar with pockets, a wooden box with compartments, or DIY envelopes. Wrapping Supplies: Festive wrapping paper, ribbons, and number stickers (1-24). Shop our luxury festive wrapping paper here. Treats and Toys: A variety of cat treats, small toys, and interactive items. Shop our festive feline collection here to get your cat some fun festive themed treats and toys. Decorations: Stickers, glitter, or any embellishments to personalise the calendar. Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Cat Advent Calendar 1. Choose the Calendar Base Select a suitable base for your advent calendar. You can purchase a pre-made one or get creative: DIY Options: Use a cork-board with mini stockings pinned on, or craft small boxes stacked in a pyramid shape. Reusable Calendars: Consider investing in a sturdy calendar that can be reused each year, adding to your family's holiday traditions. 2. Select Treats and Toys Curate a mix of items to keep your cat intrigued: Treats: Biscuits, freeze-dried meats, or their favourite crunchy snacks. Toys: Feather wands, jingle balls, catnip mice, or interactive puzzles. Special Items: Include a new collar, grooming tools, or a festive bandana. 3. Prepare the Gifts Wrap Each Item: Use small pieces of wrapping paper and secure them with ribbon or tape. Number the Packages: Attach number stickers or write numbers directly on the wrapping. 4. Assemble the Calendar Fill the Calendar: Place each wrapped gift into the corresponding pocket or compartment. Decorate: Add personal touches like your cat's name or festive stickers to make it uniquely theirs. Creative Filling Ideas To make each day special, consider these ideas: Themed Weeks: Dedicate each week to a theme, such as treats, toys, or grooming. Interactive Days: Include items that require your participation, like a new laser pointer for playtime. Surprise Days: Add an extra special gift on random days, like a larger toy or a catnip plant or even a new cat tree for the final day. Safety Tips Avoid Small Parts: Ensure toys don't have small parts that could be swallowed. Dietary Considerations: Be mindful of your cat's dietary restrictions or allergies when selecting treats. Supervise Playtime: Especially with new toys, supervise your cat to ensure they're safe and enjoying themselves. Make It a Tradition Creating a cat advent calendar can become a cherished holiday tradition. It's an opportunity to spoil your feline friend and include them in the seasonal festivities. Each day becomes a moment of joy, anticipation, and bonding. Extend the Festivities While you're in the festive spirit, why not add a cat calendar for 2025 to your advent calendar? It's a gift that keeps giving throughout the year, featuring adorable cat photos or fun facts. Shop our calendar collection here. Final Thoughts This Christmas, make your feline companion feel extra special with a homemade advent calendar. It's a simple yet heartfelt way to show your love and appreciation. Whether you opt for a DIY project or choose a pre-made advent calendar for cats, the joy it brings will be a highlight of your holiday season.Happy crafting, and may you and your cat have a purr-fect Christmas! Shop everything you need for your cat advent calendar in our Festive Feline collection here.

By Megan Willis
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Towels

Shampoo

Puppy Sleeping

Puppy Toys

Puppy Essentials

Santa's Grotto

Gift Sets

Advent Calendars

Wet Food

Dry Food

Bowls & Saucers

Cat Trees

Scratch Posts

Cat Wands

Catnip Toys

Balls

Litter Trays

Litter

Accessories

Personalised Beds

Blankets

Hooded Beds

Brushes

Flea & Worming

First Aid