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.

Owning a Cat

Is My Cat Smarter Than Me?

Owning a Cat

Can You Flush Your Dog and Cat’s Poo Down the Toilet? The Truth About Pet Waste Disposal in the UK

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21.05.25 May 21, 2025 Getting A Kitten

How to Introduce a Kitten to an Older Cat

Bringing a new kitten home is an exciting moment, but if you already have an older cat, you may be wondering how to make the introduction as smooth as possible. Cats are territorial creatures, and a sudden change in their environment can lead to stress, hissing, and even aggression. Fortunately, with patience and the right approach, you can successfully integrate a kitten with an older cat and create a harmonious home. In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of the process, from preparation to long-term integration. Preparing for the Introduction Before your kitten and older cat meet, it’s important to set the stage for success. Cats thrive on routine, so any disruption should be handled with care. 1. Create a Safe Space for Your Kitten Your new kitten needs a dedicated area where they can settle in before meeting your older cat. This could be a spare room or a quiet corner of your home with essentials like: A comfortable cat bed Food and water cat bowls A litter tray (separate from your older cat’s) Toys A scratching post Keeping your kitten in a separate space for the first few days allows them to adjust to their new surroundings while preventing your older cat from feeling threatened. 2. Introduce Their Scents First Cats rely heavily on scent to recognise their surroundings and other animals. Before a face-to-face introduction, swap bedding or gently rub a cloth on each cat and place it near the other. This allows them to get familiar with each other's scent in a non-threatening way. 3. Use a Pheromone Diffuser If your older cat is prone to stress, consider using a calming pheromone diffuser in your home. These mimic natural cat pheromones and can help ease the transition. We love the Pet Remedy plug in diffusers, it has a unique formula using low concentration Valerian essential oils blended with Vetiver, Sweet Basil, and Sage. In times of stress or anxiety the nerves get over stimulated, which leads on to the many different signs of stress we see in our pets. The special Pet Remedy blend of essential oils works alongside these natural relaxation pathways to help calm the nerves of anxious or stressed pets. The First Meeting After a few days of scent swapping and separate living spaces, it’s time for the initial introduction. 1. Controlled Visual Introduction The best way to introduce a kitten to an older cat is through a controlled, non-threatening environment. Use a pet gate or slightly open door to allow them to see each other without direct contact. Observe their reactions: Curious but calm? A positive sign! Hissing or growling? Normal at first—your older cat is setting boundaries. Ears back, tail flicking aggressively? Your older cat may need more time. Repeat this process over several days, allowing them to get used to each other’s presence before removing barriers. 2. Supervised Face-to-Face Meetings When both cats appear comfortable, let them interact under supervision. Keep the meetings short and positive. Encourage good behaviour with treats or gentle praise.Expect some hissing or swatting—it’s your older cat’s way of setting boundaries. However, if there’s persistent aggression or excessive stress, separate them and try again later. Managing Common Issues Even with a careful introduction, some challenges may arise. Here’s how to handle them: Older Cat Hissing at New Kitten Hissing is a natural reaction—it’s your older cat’s way of saying, “Give me space.” As long as it doesn’t escalate into physical aggression, give them time to adjust. Continue scent swapping and controlled introductions. Older Cat Stressed by New Kitten If your older cat shows signs of stress (hiding, over-grooming, loss of appetite), ensure they have plenty of their own space. Consider adding extra vertical spaces like cat trees or shelves where they can retreat when needed. How to Get an Old Cat to Like a New Kitten Building a positive relationship takes time. Encourage bonding by: Feeding them at the same time (but at a distance) Playing with both cats together using a wand toy Rewarding calm behavior with treats Avoid forcing interaction—let them establish their own relationship at their own pace. Long-Term Integration As your kitten and older cat become more comfortable, you can gradually allow more unsupervised interactions. Ensure they each have their own essentials (litter trays, food bowls) to reduce competition. It can take weeks or even months for an older cat to fully accept a new kitten, but with patience, most cats learn to coexist—and some even become best friends! Final Thoughts Introducing a kitten to an older cat requires patience and a thoughtful approach. By giving both cats their own space, managing their interactions carefully, and addressing any stress, you can create a peaceful home where both your new and old feline companions feel safe and happy. If you're preparing for a new kitten, be sure to check out our kitten checklist for all the essentials you’ll need. From cosy beds to scratching posts and calming aids, Lords & Labradors has everything to help your cats adjust smoothly.

By Megan Willis
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14.04.25 April 14, 2025 FAQs

Most Popular Cat Names

Choosing the perfect name for your new feline friend can be both exciting and overwhelming. After all, your cat’s name is something you’ll be calling out for years to come. Whether you’ve adopted a male kitten, a calico queen, or a sleek black cat, finding the right name is key to making your new pet feel like part of the family. To help you decide, we’ve compiled a list of the most popular cat names in the UK, along with some tips to ensure you pick the best name for your kitty. Plus, discover how you can make their name truly special with personalised cat beds from Lords & Labradors. Popular Cat Names for Every Personality Cats come in all shapes, sizes, and personalities, so it’s only fitting that their names reflect their unique charm. Here are some of the most popular cat names in the UK to inspire you: Female Cat Names Luna Bella Daisy Cleo Willow Nala Misty Ruby Male Cat Names Charlie Oscar Milo Jasper Alfie Felix Leo Teddy These names are timeless and have been favourites among cat owners across the country. If you’re looking for good male cat names or popular female cat names, these options are a great place to start. Names for Specific Colours of Cats Sometimes, your cat’s appearance or breed can inspire their name. Here are some suggestions for specific types of cats: Black Cat Names Shadow Midnight Onyx Ebony Salem Raven Jet Grey Cat Names Smokey Ash Storm Luna Misty Pebble Silver Calico Cat Names Autumn Patches Maple Honey Freckles Sienna Marigold These names not only reflect your cat’s coat colour but also add a touch of personality to their name. Black cats and grey cats, in particular, lend themselves well to cool and mysterious names, while calico cats often inspire cute and colourful monikers. Cute and Funny Cat Names If you prefer something a little more lighthearted, why not consider a cute or funny cat name? Here are some ideas: Cute Cat Names Biscuit Fluffy Muffin Poppy Cupcake Tinkerbell Funny Cat Names Chairman Meow Catniss Everdeen Furrball Purrsephone Meowington Sir Pounce These names are sure to bring a smile to your face and perfectly suit playful or cheeky kitties. Cute kitty names like Muffin and Poppy are especially popular among families with children. Unique and Cool Cat Names If you’re looking for something a little out of the ordinary, unique and cool cat names are a great choice. Here are some suggestions: Unique Male Cat Names Orion Apollo Zephyr Atlas Caspian Cool Cat Names Maverick Storm Ace Blaze Indigo These names are perfect for adventurous and confident cats, and they’ll ensure your kitty stands out from the crowd. Tips for Choosing the Best Names for Cats Keep It Short and Sweet: Cats respond best to names that are one or two syllables long. Names like Bella or Milo are easy for them to recognise. Consider Their Personality: If your cat is playful, cheeky, or mysterious, choose a name that reflects their character. For example, Purrsephone might suit a mischievous feline, while Willow is perfect for a calm and graceful kitty. Test It Out: Say the name out loud a few times to see how it feels. Make sure it’s easy to pronounce and something you won’t mind saying in public! Get the Family Involved: If you’re naming your cat as a family, make it a group effort. Kids often come up with adorable and creative names for kittens. Shop Our Personalised Cat Beds Once you’ve found the perfect name for your cat, why not treat them to a personalised cat bed? At Lords & Labradors, we offer a range of luxurious beds that can be customised with your pet’s name, making them feel extra special. Whether your kitty is a Luna, Jasper, or Poppy, their new bed will be the perfect addition to your home. Shop Our Personalised Cat Beds Finding the perfect name for your cat is a wonderful way to start your journey as a pet owner. Whether you choose a popular name, a funny name, or something entirely unique, remember that the best name is the one that feels right for you and your new furry friend.

By Megan Willis
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27.10.25 October 27, 2025 Owning a Cat

Is My Cat Smarter Than Me?

If you’ve ever found yourself staring at your cat and wondering, “Who’s really in charge here?” then you’re not alone. From ignoring commands to opening doors and outsmarting the treat tin, cats have an uncanny knack for making us feel like the daft ones in the relationship. So, are our feline companions secretly geniuses in fur coats, or are we just a bit too easily impressed by their antics? Let’s find out whether your cat might just be smarter than you think (and possibly smarter than you). How Smart Are Cats, Really? Cats are clever, there’s no doubt about that. While they might not do your taxes or fetch your slippers (they’d argue they have people for that), cats are masters of observation, memory, and problem-solving. Research has shown that cats have complex cognitive abilities similar to those of young children. They can learn routines, recognise words, and even manipulate humans to get what they want (we see you, breakfast-at-5-a.m. crowd). In short, cats are less about obedience and more about strategy. They’re not trying to impress you, they’re working out the quickest route to what they want. Smarter Than You Think: Signs of Feline Intelligence So how do you know if your cat’s secretly running mental rings around you? Here are a few tell-tale signs that your moggy’s mind might be sharper than expected: They’ve Trained You, Not the Other Way Around: Does your cat meow in a certain way and you immediately respond with food, a cuddle, or by opening a door? Congratulations, you’ve been trained. Cats are expert behaviourists who quickly learn what gets them results. You think you’re in control, but they’ve been conducting a long-term psychology experiment, and you’re the subject. They Solve Problems (Especially Food-Related Ones): Whether it’s nudging open cupboards, jumping on worktops, or working out how to knock the treat jar off the shelf, cats have impressive problem-solving skills. Studies show they can learn through observation, meaning they watch us perform tasks and then replicate them. That explains how they somehow open doors you swore were cat-proof. They Remember Everything (Especially the Important Stuff): Your cat might appear aloof, but their memory is surprisingly sharp. They can recall people, places, and experiences for years, particularly if food or comfort is involved. So yes, they definitely remember that time you were late with dinner… and they’re still judging you for it. They Communicate Intentionally: Cats meow primarily to humans, not to each other. Each meow, trill, or chirrup has meaning, and they quickly learn which sounds get the biggest reaction. In essence, they’ve built a custom language just for you. If that’s not intelligent adaptation, what is? They Know How to Get What They Want (and When): From sitting on your laptop mid-email to knocking objects off the table until you pay attention, cats are experts at controlling human behaviour. They’ve learned through trial and error exactly how to push our buttons, sometimes literally. Cat Intelligence vs. Human Intelligence It’s unfair to directly compare cat and human intelligence, after all, we’ve evolved to be good at very different things. But when it comes to certain types of smarts, cats could give us a run for our money. Cats excel in instinctive intelligence, they can hunt, problem-solve, and navigate their environment with ease. Their emotional intelligence is also underrated; many cats can sense their owner’s mood and adjust their behaviour accordingly. Ever noticed your cat curling up with you when you’re unwell or stressed? That’s empathy at work. In other words, while you might be smarter at paying bills, your cat’s definitely cleverer at manipulating emotions and maximising comfort, which arguably makes them the true genius of the household. Are Some Cat Breeds Smarter Than Others? Some breeds are particularly known for their brainpower. If your cat’s a bit of a mastermind, they might belong to one of these sharp-minded groups: Siamese: Chatty, curious, and quick to learn tricks, these cats love mental stimulation. Bengal: Adventurous and athletic, with the brains to match. Abyssinian: One of the oldest and most intelligent breeds; they learn by watching. Maine Coon: Gentle giants with a problem-solving streak. Sphynx: Exceptionally social and observant, they read humans like a book. Of course, every cat is unique. Even your laid-back British Shorthair can surprise you with a moment of sheer genius (usually when you least expect it). Can You Make Your Cat Even Smarter? Absolutely! Cats thrive on mental stimulation, and just like us, they need to exercise their minds. Here are some ways to encourage their inner Einstein: Interactive Play: Toys that move, rattle, or hide treats tap into your cat’s hunting instincts and keep their brain buzzing. Puzzle Feeders: These make mealtimes a mental workout, challenging your cat to think before they eat. Training & Tricks: Believe it or not, cats can learn tricks just like dogs, you just need patience (and a lot of treats). Try starting with our guide: Train Your Cat: Top Tricks for Clever Cats. New Experiences: Rotate toys, rearrange play areas, and give them safe access to different views, a sunny windowsill, a cat tree, or a secure garden enclosure. The more variety you add, the more your cat’s intelligence will shine through. And who knows, they might even start teaching you a few tricks. So… Is My Cat Smarter Than Me? In their own way, yes probably! Cats may not understand quantum physics, but they’ve mastered the art of getting what they want with minimal effort. They’re observant, emotionally intuitive, and endlessly resourceful. So next time your cat outsmarts you, don’t take it personally, just admire their brilliance (and maybe offer them a treat for their trouble). Keep Their Brilliant Minds Busy From interactive toys and cat trees to treats and puzzle feeders, Lords & Labradors has everything you need to keep your clever kitty mentally stimulated and endlessly entertained. Because if your cat is smarter than you, the least you can do is keep them happy about it!

By Emily Sawer
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20.10.25 October 20, 2025 Owning a Cat

Can You Flush Your Dog and Cat’s Poo Down the Toilet? The Truth About Pet Waste Disposal in the UK

If you’re a pet owner, you’ll know that clearing up after your furry friend isn’t the most glamorous part of the job. Whether you’re scooping cat litter or bagging up after a dog walk, you’ve probably wondered at some point: can you just flush it down the toilet and save yourself the hassle? It sounds quick, clean, and even eco-friendly. But before you send that little parcel swirling away, let’s bust the myth once and for all. Flushing pet poo, whether it’s from your dog or cat, is not the answer, and it could cause more harm than good. Here’s why flushing pet waste isn’t as simple as it seems, and what you should do instead to dispose of it safely and sustainably. Myth #1: “It’s just like human waste, so it’s fine to flush.” If only! While it might seem logical that pet and human waste can go down the same route, the truth is a little murkier. Dog and cat poo can carry parasites, bacteria, and pathogens that human sewage systems aren’t designed to treat. The most well-known is Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite found in cat faeces that can survive traditional sewage treatment. Once it reaches waterways, it can harm marine wildlife and even pose risks to human health. So while it may vanish from sight, it doesn’t vanish from the world, flushing pet poo simply moves the problem elsewhere. Myth #2: “Flushing is better for the environment than using poo bags.” Many eco-conscious pet owners in the UK want to reduce plastic use, which is fantastic, but flushing animal waste isn’t the greener option it appears to be. Most UK water treatment plants aren’t built to process animal waste, meaning harmful microorganisms can slip through filtration systems and contaminate rivers and coastal waters. Over time, this disrupts delicate ecosystems and affects aquatic life. A better alternative? Biodegradable or compostable poo bags. They break down much faster than traditional plastic and can be safely disposed of in general waste bins. Myth #3: “Flushing pet waste every now and then won’t hurt.” Unfortunately, even the odd flush can lead to unpleasant consequences. Pet waste can clump, swell, and block pipes, especially when mixed with cat litter or pet hair. This can cause slow drains, nasty smells, or even full-blown plumbing disasters. So, even if you only do it occasionally, flushing pet poo is a risk that’s just not worth taking, particularly in older UK plumbing systems that aren’t designed for it. Myth #4: “Flushable cat litter makes it okay.” Flushable litters might sound like the perfect solution, but they come with a catch. Even those labelled “flushable” may not fully break down in water. Many are made from biodegradable materials like corn, paper, or wood that absorb moisture and expand, risking pipe blockages or build-up over time. What’s more, UK water companies, including Thames Water and Severn Trent, strongly advise against flushing any kind of cat litter, even if the packaging says otherwise. So while flushable litter sounds handy, it’s best to play it safe and bin it instead. Myth #5: “Flushing helps keep the house smelling fresh.” We get it, when you’re trying to keep your home smelling lovely, sending the smell down the drain feels like the fastest fix. But there are much better ways to stay fresh without risking your plumbing. For cat owners, try using high-quality odour-control litter and scoop trays daily. For dog owners, bag and bin waste straight away during walks and use eco-friendly sprays or wipes at home. And if you want to level up your clean-up routine, Lords & Labradors offers a range of stylish litter trays, cleaning sprays, and accessories designed to make pet parent life a little more elegant (and a lot less smelly). So, How Should You Dispose of Dog and Cat Poo Safely? Here’s what UK pet owners should do instead: 🐾 Dog waste: Always bag it, ideally in a biodegradable or compostable bag, and place it in general waste or designated dog waste bins. Never flush it, even if the bag claims to be “flushable.” 🐾 Cat waste: Scoop the litter daily and dispose of waste in the household rubbish. For hygiene, use a liner or small biodegradable bag and wash your hands thoroughly afterwards. If you’re aiming for a more sustainable setup, you can look into pet waste composting systems, though remember, compost made from animal waste should never be used on edible plants. The Final Flush: Don’t Do It! So, can you flush cat poo or dog poo down the toilet? In short, no! It might seem convenient, but flushing pet waste can cause plumbing issues, environmental harm, and even health risks. Stick to tried-and-tested disposal methods instead: bag it, bin it, and keep it out of the loo. Your drains (and the UK’s waterways) will thank you for it. Keep Your Home Fresh and Planet-Friendly Dealing with pet mess doesn’t have to be unpleasant. From eco-friendly poo bags and litter trays to pet-safe cleaning products, Lords & Labradors has everything you need to keep your home fresh, hygienic, and stylish, without flushing your way into trouble. Because when it comes to your pets, the only thing that should go down the toilet is… toilet paper! 🐾

By Emily Sawer
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Interactive

Chew Toys

Throwing Toys

Clippers & Scissors

Towels

Shampoo

Puppy Sleeping

Puppy Toys

Puppy Essentials

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