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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15.10.24 October 15, 2024 Health

Do Cats Snore? Understanding Snoring in Cats

If you've ever been relaxing at home and heard a peculiar noise coming from your feline friend, you might have wondered, "Do cats snore?" The short answer is yes—cats do snore. Just like humans and many other animals, cats can produce snoring sounds during sleep. While a snoring cat can be endearing and even amusing, it's important to understand why it happens and when it might signal a health issue. Why Do Cats Snore? Snoring occurs when there's an obstruction in the airway that leads to vibrations during breathing. In cats, several factors can contribute to this phenomenon: 1. Sleeping Position Sometimes, the simplest explanation is the correct one. If your cat snores occasionally, it might just be due to their sleeping position. Cats are notorious for curling up in the most unconventional ways. A twisted neck or a paw over the face can temporarily narrow the airway, leading to those cute snoring sounds. 2. Breed Predisposition Certain breeds are more prone to snoring due to their facial structure. Brachycephalic breeds like Persians and Himalayans have shorter nasal passages and flattened faces, which can cause snoring in cats. Their anatomy makes it more likely for airways to become partially obstructed. 3. Obesity Excess weight can lead to fat accumulation around the throat, narrowing the airway. If your cat is snoring loudly and is overweight, it might be time to consult your veterinarian about a weight management plan. Obesity doesn't just cause loud snoring in cats; it can lead to a host of other health issues. 4. Respiratory Infections and Allergies Respiratory issues can cause inflammation or mucus buildup, leading to snoring. Allergies to dust, pollen, or certain foods can also contribute. If your cat's snoring is accompanied by sneezing, coughing, or nasal discharge, it might be suffering from an infection or allergy. 5. Foreign Objects Cats are curious creatures. Occasionally, they might inhale small foreign objects like grass blades or seeds, which can obstruct the nasal passages. This can result in sudden snoring in cats and requires immediate veterinary attention. When Should You Be Concerned About Your Cat's Snoring? While occasional snoring is usually harmless, consistent or sudden changes in your cat's breathing patterns shouldn't be ignored. Here are some signs that warrant a vet visit: Increased Snoring Volume or Frequency: If your cat snores loudly all of a sudden, it could indicate an underlying issue. Laboured Breathing When Awake: Difficulty breathing during awake hours is a red flag. Accompanying Symptoms: Look out for coughing, sneezing, lethargy, or changes in appetite. Behavioural Changes: If your cat seems distressed or is avoiding activities it usually enjoys, consult your vet. How Is Snoring in Cats Diagnosed and Treated? Vets will perform a thorough examination to determine the cause of snoring in cats. This may include: Physical Examination: Checking the mouth, throat, and nasal passages. Imaging Tests: X-rays or CT scans to look for obstructions or abnormalities. Allergy Testing: Identifying potential allergens affecting your cat. Treatment will depend on the diagnosis: Weight Management: Implementing a diet and exercise plan for obese cats. Medication: Antibiotics for infections or antihistamines for allergies. Surgery: In rare cases, surgical intervention might be necessary to remove obstructions or correct anatomical issues. Can Cats Snore Safely? For the most part, yes. Many cats snore safely without any adverse health effects. If your cat is snoring but is otherwise healthy, active, and eating well, there's likely no cause for concern. However, always keep an eye on any changes in their behaviour or health status. Tips to Minimise Your Cat's Snoring If you're looking to reduce your cat's snoring, consider the following: Adjust Sleeping Positions: Gently reposition your cat if it's in a particularly contorted pose. Maintain Healthy Weight: Ensure your cat stays active and eats a balanced diet. Regular Veterinary Check-ups: Routine visits can catch potential issues early. Air Quality: Use air purifiers to reduce allergens in your home. Why Does My Cat Snore More Than Others? Individual differences play a significant role. Factors like age, anatomy, and health status affect snoring. Older cats might snore more due to relaxed muscle tone. If you find yourself asking, "Why does my cat snore more than others?", consider these variables and consult your vet for personalised advice. How To Upgrade Your Cat’s Sleep Set Up If you’re wanting to make sure your cat snore in a little luxury why not look to refresh their sleep space? Here at Lords & Labradors we have a range of options for even the fussiest of felines. For the cat who loves a bed why not treat them to one of our luxury high wall cat beds? The high sides are perfect for them to snuggle their head against and they come in all of our best selling fabrics for you to pick from. For the cat who loves to snooze up high one of our cat trees will make the perfect snooze spot, both the Back To Nature The Duo and the Back To Nature The Basket are great for those all important cat naps. Conclusion So, can cats snore? Absolutely. While a snoring cat is often nothing to worry about, it's essential to stay vigilant. Monitoring your cat's health and consulting with a veterinarian when necessary ensures that your feline friend stays happy and healthy. After all, a little purring and snoring are part of what makes cat ownership so delightful. Remember, at Lords & Labradors, we care about every aspect of your pet's well-being. From providing quality essentials to offering expert advice, we're here to support you and your furry companions every step of the way.

By Megan Willis
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03.10.24 October 03, 2024 Owning a Cat

Why Does My Cat Sleep on My Bed? Getting Your Cat to Sleep on Its Own Bed

If you're a cat owner, you've likely woken up to find your feline friend nestled comfortably beside you. Why does your cat sleep on your bed, and more importantly, how can you encourage them to sleep on their own? Understanding the reasons behind this behaviour is the first step in addressing it. In this article, we'll delve into the motivations of your cat's sleeping habits and provide expert tips on getting your cat to embrace their own sleeping space. Understanding Why Cats Sleep on Your Bed 1. Comfort and Warmth Cats are creatures of comfort. Your bed offers a soft, warm, and elevated space that appeals to their natural instincts. The layers of blankets and your body heat create an inviting environment that's hard for any cat to resist. Sleeping with your cat might seem endearing, but it's essential to consider whether this habit is beneficial for both of you in the long run. 2.Security and Bonding Cats are often stereotyped as solitary animals, but they can form strong bonds with their human companions. Sleeping with the cat can be a sign that your feline trusts you and feels secure in your presence. This close proximity allows them to feel protected and reinforces the bond between you. 3.Territory and Ownership Cats are territorial animals. By sleeping on your bed, they're marking it with their scent, effectively claiming it as part of their territory. This behaviour is especially common in multi-pet households where the cat might feel the need to assert dominance. 4.Habit and Routine Cats are creatures of habit. If they've been allowed to sleep on your bed since kitten-hood, they'll naturally continue this behaviour. Changing this routine can be challenging but not impossible with the right approach. Is It Okay for Cats to Sleep on Your Bed? While sleeping with cats can be comforting for some owners, it's important to weigh the pros and cons. Health Considerations - Sharing a bed with your cat can pose health risks, especially if you have allergies or asthma. Pet dander and fur can exacerbate these conditions. Additionally, outdoor cats might carry parasites or pathogens that could be transmitted to humans. Sleep Disturbances - Cats are nocturnal by nature. Their active periods might disrupt your sleep as they move around, groom themselves, or engage in playful behaviour during the night. Cat is sleeping patterns differ from humans, which can lead to fragmented sleep for you. Personal Space - Everyone needs their personal space, including your cat. Encouraging your cat to sleep in their own bed can promote independence and reduce over-reliance on your presence for comfort. How to Encourage Your Cat to Sleep in Its Own Bed 1. Choose the Right Bed Investing in a high-quality cat bed is crucial. Consider factors like size, material, and design. Some cats prefer enclosed spaces that mimic a den, while others like open beds with plush cushioning. At Lords & Labradors, we offer a range of luxurious cat beds designed to cater to every feline preference, shop here. 2. Optimal Placement Location matters. Place the cat bed in a quiet, comfortable area where your cat already likes to spend time. If your cat enjoys high places, consider an elevated bed or place the bed on a sturdy shelf, you could also try a cat tree with a bed on the top if they like elevated spaces. The goal is to make the sleep for cats as appealing as possible. 3. Make the Bed Inviting To entice your cat to use their new bed, make it smell familiar. Placing a piece of your clothing or a blanket they've used can make the bed more inviting. Adding their favourite toys can also encourage them to spend time there. Remember, the key is to create a space where your cat sleeps on the bed comfortably, but this time, it's their own bed. 4. Positive Reinforcement Reward your cat when they use their bed. Treats, praise, and gentle petting can reinforce the idea that their bed is a safe and enjoyable place. Avoid scolding or punishing your cat for sleeping on your bed, as negative reinforcement can cause stress and anxiety. 5. Establish a Routine Consistency is vital. Establish a bedtime routine that signals to your cat that it's time to settle down. This could include playtime to tire them out, followed by feeding, and then guiding them to their bed. Over time, they'll associate this routine with sleeping in their own space. 6. Limit Access to Your Bedroom If your cat persists in sleeping on your bed, you might need to restrict access to your bedroom at night. Ensure they have everything they need—food, water, a clean litter box, and a comfortable sleeping area—outside your room. This approach might require patience, but it can effectively break the habit. Benefits of Your Cat Sleeping in Their Own Bed Encouraging your cat to sleep independently has several advantages: Improved Sleep Quality: Both you and your cat can enjoy uninterrupted sleep. Healthier Environment: Reduces the risk of allergies and exposure to pet dander. Enhanced Independence: Promotes confidence and independence in your cat. Personal Space: Allows both of you to have your own space, strengthening the bond without over-dependence. Conclusion Understanding why your cat sleeps on your bed is the first step toward encouraging new habits. By providing a comfortable, appealing alternative and reinforcing positive behaviours, you can help your cat transition to their own bed. Remember, patience and consistency are key. At Lords & Labradors, we're passionate about providing high-quality pet essentials that cater to your cat's comfort and well-being. Explore our collection of luxurious cat beds and accessories to create the perfect sleeping environment for your feline friend.

By Megan Willis
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High Wall Beds

Square Beds

Mattress Beds

Crates

Crate Bedding

Crate Sets

Dog Beds

Crate Covers

Cushions

Collars

Harnesses

Leads

Carriers

Drying

Boosters

Dry Food

Wet Food

Treats

Jackets

Bandanas

Drying

Interactive

Chew Toys

Throwing Toys

Clippers & Scissors

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