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Everything You Need For Your New Sphynx Kitten
22.04.21 April 22, 2021 Cat Breed Guide Featured

Everything You Need For Your New Sphynx Kitten

Whether you’re a first-time cat owner or you’ve been an owner before, awaiting the arrival of a new pet is super exciting! You may also feel a little nervous in anticipation, as it’s important to have everything ready. We all want it to go smoothly when we bring a new pet into our home and that means having their space ready and having all the essentials on your shopping list ticked off. Whilst every cat has similar needs, some breeds are slightly different and may need some specific items that other cats don’t. In this article we’re going to concentrate on the Sphynx cat. The Sphinx is a beautiful hairless cat breed with really distinct features such as their fur-free body. Read on to find out more about the breed and find out what you’ll need if you’re going to make a Sphynx your next pet.   About the Sphynx Cat Breed The Sphynx is arguably one of the most distinctive cat breeds, renowned for its hairless appearance and prominent wedge-shaped head. Also known as the Canadian Sphynx, they were first bred in Canada where selective breeding was used to develop and hone their unique appearance. Whilst the Sphynx does not have the same grooming needs of a long-haired breed, it is not in any way maintenance-free. In fact, they tend to have very oily skin - where other breeds hair would soak up any extra oils produced, in this case the oils can build up on the skin. Regular bathing is a must! Sphynx cats are known for their high levels of energy, intelligence and affection for their owners. If you make a Sphynx your next pet you’ll certainly know about it as they can be vocal and extremely loving. They will probably follow you around the house or greet you at the door; and if you leave them alone in a room, expect them to call out for you until you return! Their sociable nature means they crave company, and they don’t adapt well to a solitary lifestyle. If you have a busy social calendar or work long hours, it’s best to get two together (the other cat could be a different breed), so that they have company when you can’t be around. If you’re looking for a feline who displays their affection for you then this could be the breed for you. They will offer you the companionship that many other more aloof breeds won't.  But “what do I need for a Sphynx cat?” you may ask! Here’s our Sphynx kitten shopping list:       The Sphynx Cat Shopping List Cat Bed Every cat needs a cosy bed, and the L&L velvet cushion is just the luxury style that your Sphynx kitty will love. A super sumptuous velvet fabric in a subtle shade of mink, the bed is soft and squishy and just made for catnapping! The bed has a reversible inner pad too with a cosy Sherpa on the reverse which will offer extra warmth when your cat needs it most. Sphynx can feel the cold just like humans - if you’re cold, they’re probably cold. Giving them a bed made of warming fabrics like this will allow them to regulate their body temperature.   Cat Blanket A blanket will add an extra layer of warmth when your cat needs it most. It’s ideal for the winter, but also as an addition to your cat’s carrier when you take them to the vet. Our luxury blankets come in a range of stunning velvets with Sherpa linings. They look stunning and they’re practical too!   Cat Carrier A must for every cat owner is a comfortable pet carrier. You’ll need it from the day you collect your new kitty to help transport them home safely, so it’s important to have one ready in advance. There are a number of brilliant and practical cat carriers available including the contemporary Cabrio carrier by Catit and the more traditional Rattan Carry Basket by House of Paws. We particularly love the Catit carrier as it has a multitude of features including inbuilt bowls for on-the-go feeding on long journeys and its ability to fasten safely into the car with a seatbelt. Whichever you choose, don’t forget to add your kitten’s blanket inside to make it cosy!   Premium Quality Cat Food The diet you feed your Sphynx will have a huge effect on the condition of their skin. The hairless breed is prone to greasy skin so keeping on top of this is a priority. The better quality the food, the less likely they are to produce excess oils. We like the Lily’s Kitchen range of cat foods as they have a high meat content and are grain- free. They also make a range of delicious wet foods too. Our suggestion would be to speak to your breeder and your vet about what foods they think are best so you can make an informed choice.   Cat Bowls A low whisker-friendly bowl such as the ones by Catit or the saucers by Tarhong will allow your cat to feed in comfort. The latter come in a range of stunning colours and are ideal for portions of wet food.     Cat Water Fountain Keeping your Sphynx cat hydrated will help to keep their skin in good condition. Dehydration can cause all sorts of skin irritations so doing everything you can to prohibit that is a must. A Catit Water Fountain will encourage your cat to drink more. Cats can be reluctant to drink from stagnant water, so providing them with flowing water like this is a great way to get them to drink. The water is filtered too so will be free of any nasties. There's a mini version for kittens and small cats and a larger version that you can upgrade to for adult cats.   Cat Shampoo You may think that a hairless breed won't need as much grooming as a long haired one, but that isn’t actually the case. The oily nature of the Sphynx’s skin means that regular shampooing is necessary to get rid of accumulated dirt and grime. Use a good quality, all-natural shampoo that is free from soap and always make sure to dry them thoroughly straight away to stop them getting cold.   Ear Cleaner As Sphynx don’t have any fur around the ears, wax can build up more quickly than in other breeds. An ear cleaner made especially for pets is a great way to keep your pet's ears healthy.   Skin Balm Whilst your Sphynx may have oily skin, they can still get dry patches on their elbows and knees as well as behind their ears. Use a good quality skin balm such as the one by Dene’s, will help nourish any dry patches.   Oral Care Products Sphynx cats are prone to bad teeth. It’s really important that they have regular dental check-ups with the vet and that you try your best to look after them well. The Oral Care products for cats by Tropiclean will help to keep your cat’s teeth clean and healthy.   Large Cat Scratch Tree Your Sphynx cat will probably live solely indoors which means you will need to provide them with an environment in which they can sate all of their needs, including their desire to scratch! A tall scratch tree complete with scratch posts and platforms will give them somewhere to climb and exercise too, so we’d suggest choosing something tall with multiple posts. This will give them room to climb and scratch until their heart’s content and will hopefully divert them away from your soft furnishings and furniture! One of the risks of keeping a cat indoors is that they’ll get bored, so providing them with cat furniture such a tall cat tree will help keep them stimulated and in good health.   Cat Litter Tray Every cat needs a place to toilet so a cat litter tray is a must, and this hooded litter tray by Catit will give them a private place to do it. Sphynx poop can be extra stinky so having a covered tray will help to contain the smell until you have chance to clean it. If you'd like something that blends in with your furniture then look no further than our very own Cat Washroom. We designed the washroom to blend in with your furnishings complete with a handy shelf to store necessities. Simply pop your standard litter tray inside (it fits most compact litter trays) and your cat will have somewhere private to do their business! Cat Litter  We’d suggest the Words Best Cat Litter which is dust-free and has brilliant odour control. The clumping litter is really easy to clean out too, making it really practical. You can get by with just cleaning out the dirty parts rather than the whole tray and then topping up as needed. Don't forget a scoop to help you clean it out. Don’t forget Cat Toys! Every cat loves to play as it’s a time when they can enjoy their favourite things such as ‘hunting’ and ‘chasing’. Sphynx cats are highly intelligent and may get bored easily, so it’s important to provide a range of playthings to rotate to help keep things exciting for them. A series of interactive cat toys that can really stimulate your feline would be ideal. Something from the Catit Senses range would be perfect such as the Play Circuit and Food Tree - you can interconnect different toys from the Senses range to create an indoor cat playground that is sure to keep your loveable feline entertained for hours.  We hope our shopping list will be of help in selecting the things you'll need if you're getting a Sphynx kitten. We 'd always advise speaking to your breeder, and your vet too, as they will be able to help you make informed decisions relating to your circumstances and your particular kitten.  If you need any help or more information relating to any of the products mentioned, please do get in touch and we'll do our best to help!

By Zac Girdlestone

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Everything You Need For Your New Scottish Fold Kitten
01.09.20 September 01, 2020 Cat Breed Guide Featured

Everything You Need For Your New Scottish Fold Kitten

The Scottish Fold is a beautiful and distinctive breed of cat. They have a natural gene that affects the cartilage throughout their body, sometimes causing their ears to bend forwards; hence their name, Scottish Fold. Their distinctive good looks and loving personalities make them extremely popular pets. Here we take a look at the history of the breed and then discuss all the things you should have if you’re going to make a Scottish Fold your next pet.   The History Of The Scottish Fold Cat The First Scottish Fold cat was discovered in Scotland in the early 1960’s. Susie had the distinctive folded down ears and soon gave birth to two kittens with the same owl-like appearance. The cats went on to be registered with the GCCF Governing Council of Cat Fancy) and the Scottish Fold breed was born. The breed is renowned for their folded down ears, but it’s important to note that not all Scottish Fold’s will have folded ears; it all depends on the kitten’s dominant gene. Scottish Fold’s who do not develop the folded ears are often called Straights. Straights are no less attractive - who could resist those round cheeks and big eyes! A medium sized cat, Scottish Folds can be either long or short haired and can have almost every known colour. The breed is typically very pleasant natured with with humans and other animals. In fact they tend to grow very strong bonds with their human owners and are usually very affectionate. This makes them a very popular choice of pet. Just make sure you have the time to give them plenty of attention as they can grow lonely quite easily. If you work full time, it might be a good idea to buy two together so they are not alone for long periods of time.   Scottish Fold Kitten Shopping List Are you planning to get a Scottish Fold? If you’re making one your next pet, or are considering it, we’ve put together this shopping list so you can make sure you have everything you need ready to collect them and bring them home. Cat Carrier Travel safety is an important consideration for your cat, both for the day you collect your kitten and beyond. Choose your carrier carefully and look at their really practical features. The main thing we love about cat carriers is a top opening with double door closure. It allows you to easily get your kitten in and out. Nervous new kittens might be reluctant to get in a carrier or get out so the top opening is ideal. Also a lot of our carriers are certified safe for various forms of travel including land, sea and air so all travel forms are covered.   Kitten Blanket You will want your kitten to be as comfortable as possible on the journey home. Little kittens may be nervous to travel and will be unsure of their surroundings. A blanket will offer warmth and a feeling of security. We have scent blankets that can be left with Mum for a couple of weeks before you pick your kitten up. They can bring the scent home with them and have the comforting feeling of home with them. A large cat blanket is a good idea to put with them in their carrier though and can be added to their bed for snuggles at catnap time and bedtime.   Pet Calming Products for Kittens Pet Remedy make a range of calming products suitable for both cats and dogs. You might like to spray their blanket with some of the natural solution to help keep your kitten stress-free on the journey. You could also spray their bed at home to help settle them in. Pet remedy make a range of different products including kits for New Homes and for Travel. Feliway is a brand of calming products designed especially for cats and kittens. Their plug-in diffusers can be plugged in a week or so before you bring your kitten home and will help to make them at home more quickly. They are 100% pet safe, tried and tested to help calm nervous pets in a range of situations. Feliway is great to use in the lead up to trips to the Vet and at any other times that your cat may feel particularly stressed.   Cat Litter Tray & Accessories Pet hygiene is an important part of your cat’s life, whilst litter training is a crucial part of their development and cleanliness. Most kittens will be fully litter trained by the time you bring them home, so just ensure you have a litter tray with good quality litter and a scoop for cleaning. When you first get kitten home, make sure they know where the litter tray is. We have a wide range of litter tray types, but we’d suggest a medium to large size for your Scottish Fold and a clumping litter.    Cosy Cat Bed Kittens love to nap and snooze. New kittens can spend up to 20 hours a day sleeping, so having a comfortable bed is a must. A cosy kitten bed can also help them to feel safe and secure in their new environment. A hooded cat bed is a really good option as cats like to feel sheltered and safe. Choose a cat bed with a sherpa top as cat’s love the texture of this type of fleece.    Cat Bowls Your Scottish Fold will  need bowls for feeding time! A minimum of two bowls or saucers for food and water is essential. You might also consider a third one if you want to feed dry and wet food separately. Some of our favourite bowls are the shallow designs. Tarhong make really durable melamine saucers that are just perfect for pouches of wet food or water. The shallow design makes them particularly whisker friendly.   Cat Food A good quality dry kitten food is essential for developing kittens. Your breeder is likely to suggest the best food for them and will probably send you home with a sample of the food they’ve been eating so far. If you decide to move them on to a different food, make sure it’s suitable for kittens and make sure changes are gradual over a week or two. Sudden changes to diet can have negative effects on kitten’s digestion. Our recommendation is that you keep dry food down all day for your kitten to graze on and then supplement with one or two wet food meals a day (make sure you read the packaging for portion sizes as different foods will vary). Dry food is great for dental health, helping to keep plaque at bay, but wet food has the benefit of a high water content which is beneficial for cats, especially for those who don’t like drinking water from a bowl. You should always keep fresh water down for them, even if they don’t drink much. Cats can suffer from urinary tract problems; making sure they drink enough can keep such problems at bay.   Cat Treats Choose some good quality treats for your kitten. Treats are a nice little reward for good behaviour and can be used to instil good behaviour when training them to scratch their scratch post. We have a wide selection of treats from brands including The Innocent Cat and Felix.   Cat Toys Whether your cat will live indoors or outdoors, they will love playing. Choose good quality toys that appeal to an array of your cat’s senses. Hunting, chasing and pouncing are just some of the things your cat will do in the wild, so giving them toys that allow them to do the same in their indoor environment will make sure they are entertained and stimulated. We have a fun collection of catnip toys as well as enticing cat wands and teasers from brands including Catit, KONG and All For Paws. Don’t forget to swap toys around so your cat doesn’t get bored!    Cat Scratch Post Your Scottish Fold kitten will definitely scratch, which shouldn’t be seen as naughty behaviour, but rather a natural instinct to be encouraged in the correct places. Never scold your kitten for scratching furniture, but instead provide specific scratching products for them to sate their scratching needs. A good quality scratch post should be tall enough for your kitten to stretch when scratching. You may choose a small compact one to begin with and size up as your kitten grows. If your cat is going to live solely indoors then you will need to invest in a tall scratch post with platforms and ledges for them to climb and exercise. Indoor cats live long healthy lives as long as you give them plenty of things to do. A tall cat tower is ideal for indoors cats.   Cat Collar If you are going to let your kitten outdoors eventually you may want to invest in a cat collar so you can attach an ID tag in case they go missing. Choose a cat collar with a safety buckle incase it gets caught when climbing and consider something with a reflective strip so your cat can be seen in the dark. You may well choose to keep your Scottish Fold as an indoor only cat, which is perfectly fine as long as you provide them with plenty of activities to keep them active and stimulated indoors.    Cat Grooming Tools Cats are very good at grooming themselves, but it’s also a good idea to get them used to being brushed and in some cases bathed too. Short haired Scottish Fold’s will only need minimal brushing but a long haired cat may require a daily brush. Grooming is good for their socialisation and helps build a strong bond with you. You could get your cat used to bathing too. Shampooing your cat isn’t always necessary, but you may choose to get them used to a bath every now and then; it might be necessary if you intend to show your cat. If your cat doesn’t like water, you could try a waterless shampoo spray. It’ll condition the hair and make it smell Devine.

By Zac Girdlestone

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Everything You Need For Your New Tonkinese Kitten
07.08.20 August 07, 2020 Cat Breed Guide Featured

Everything You Need For Your New Tonkinese Kitten

The Tonkinese is a beautiful, medium sized breed of cat known for its intelligence and loving nature. They love company, both that of humans and other animals. They are perfectly suited to the life of a house cat, as long as they have company around most of the day; they don’t appreciate being left alone for long periods. They make great pets and are an increasingly popular choice for pet owners. Here we take a look at the history of the breed and look at all the things you will need if you are getting ready to welcome one in to your home.    The History Of The Tonkinese Breed The Tonkinese were originally a crossbreed between the Siamese and Burmese, becoming recognised as a breed in their own right in the latter half of the 20th century. They have since become increasingly popular amongst both pet owners and show cat owners. They are a medium sized breed with distinctive almond shaped eyes. Perhaps best known in their Siamese-like colouring, there are in fact a broad spectrum of coat colours and patterns in the breed - with 78 combinations of coat colour and markings! Their intelligence makes them quick learners and they are quite capable of learning a trick or two. They can be vocal, just like their Siamese cousins and are known for being extremely affectionate (although perhaps not as loud as Siamese!). They will love spending time with you and other pets. This does mean they can get bored easily - so ensure you give them plenty of stimulation and they will live happily content lives.       Tonkinese Shopping List So you’ve decided to bring one of these beautiful cats into your home? Here are the cat products we recommend you have ready for their arrival! Travelling Home With Your Kitten: Cat Carrier It is essential that you travel safely with your new kitten, even short journeys will require a good quality cat carrier that can be fastened securely in to the car. Carriers are great as they're safe for various forms of transport and have some wonderful features. There is often a shoulder strap for comfortable carrying too!   Kitten Blanket Kittens love a warm snuggle. A blanket will allow them to curl up and snooze and give them a feeling of security, We’d suggest leaving a blanket with the breeder in the run-up to bringing them home so the blanket can be left with Mum for a while. Then when you bring kitten home with the blanket they will have the comforting scent of Mum with them.   Soft Toy Like the blanket, a snuggle toy will offer a comforting cuddle to nervous new kittens. Moving in to their new home is a big step for new kittens, so making them feel as settled and secure as possible is the most important thing.    Moving Kitten Into Their New Home: Kitten Bed Cats are notorious for sleeping wherever they like around the house; sunny window sills, the top of a wardrobe, the back of the sofa… you name it, your kitten will probably enjoy a snooze on it! It’s still important to give your kitten a dedicated bed though. You can pop their snuggle blanket and toys in there; and it will be a place of their own for them to retreat to when they need a break from the rest of the house.      Cat Bowls & Saucers Feeding time will probably become one of  your kitten’s favourite times of the day. You will need at least two bowls for food and water - three if you want to separate dry and wet food. We have a wonderful range of melamine bowls by Tarhong. The new Cactus design is particularly adorable, but there are also many other designs to choose from to suit all tastes and interiors.   Scratch Post or Tree Your cat will have a strong instinct to scratch. This isn’t a bad habit, but actually promotes healthy claws and allows them to stretch their muscles. Cats are like athletes and need to ensure their muscles are primed for all that climbing and jumping! With this in mind, you need to provide an area where you can allow and encourage them to scratch that isn’t your furniture. A tall scratch post is ideal. If your cat is going to live indoors we’d suggest a tree that is on the larger side with multiple platforms and posts. This will give them a place to climb and exercise as they would outside. Giving your indoor cat plenty to do will also ensure boredom doesn’t set in.   Cat Litter Tray & Accessories Your cat will need somewhere to toilet inside the house. Even if they will be allowed outside, giving them a litter tray indoors is always advised for the occasions where weather doesn’t permit outdoor pursuits; or if your cat has to be kept indoors for medical reasons. We’d recommend the Cat Washroom with a standard litter tray inside. A white wooden piece of furniture that will complement most interiors, our L&L Cat washroom is a great way to disguise your cat’s litter tray. Use a good quality clumping cat litter and you’ll be all set for litter training.   Catnip Toys We all know kittens are playful. This, teamed with their instinct to hunt and chase, means they will love a toy or two. We offer an array of brightly coloured toys featuring interesting textures and sounds for your cat to explore, such as feathers, rattles and bells, as well as an impressive selection of catnip toys they won’t be able to get enough. Buy a few different ones and try to swap them around so they don’t get bored of them.   Feather Wand Teaser In a similar vein to catnip toys, your cat will love playing with a feather teaser. A wand toy has the added benefit of including you in the fun - playing with your cat is good bonding time and the perfect chance to spend valuable time with your feline friend.    Activity Toys If you want to add an extra dimension to your cat’s playtime, you could try the interactive toys by Catit. Catit have designed a series of accessories that can be used alone or in conjunction with each other. Each one is designed to appeal to a specific feline sense - hence the name ‘Catit Senses’! Your cat will love chasing a ball around a Senses track system, or digging for treats in the Digger accessory. Explore the collection and create the ultimate kitten playground.   Pet Calming Products Feliway is designed to stop unwanted cat behaviours around the home. Settling into a new home can be stressful for a kitten. Stress can lead to all kinds of unwanted behaviour such as scratching furniture and toileting in the wrong places. Feliway is a good place to start when trying to stop this behaviour. Simply plug it in and the diffuser will release a scent that mimics the pheromones that cat’s leave on furniture - basically their smell of home.

By Zac Girdlestone

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Everything You Need For Your New Siamese Kitten
15.07.20 July 15, 2020 Cat Breed Guide Featured

Everything You Need For Your New Siamese Kitten

Getting a kitten is super exciting and bringing a cat into your family adds a whole new dynamic to the household! If you’ve chosen to get a Siamese kitten then you will be welcoming an intelligent, friendly cat into your home. Here we look at the history of the breed and then go on to list all the things you will need to prepare for their arrival.   The History Of The Siamese Cat The Siamese is one of the oldest breeds of cat, native to Thailand, which became one of the most popular breeds across America and Europe in the 19th Century. Descended from the Wichienmaat Landrace, a description of the Siamese can be found in the Tanra Maew, or The Cat Book of Poems, which is thought to originate from the Ayuttaya period between 1351 and 1767 AD. The first documented Siamese in the US was received by president Hayes in 1878; the first pair in Britain were brought back in 1884 by Edward Gould. It is thought that every Siamese cat born in Britain today is a descendant of these and nine other cats brought to this country at the time. Today the breed is known for its distinctive image; with its slender body, triangular head, large almond shaped eyes and colour point markings. The Siamese is born with a pure cream coat with dark markings appearing at the cooler extremities of their body as they age. They tend to be super affectionate cats, loving their owners and companionship from both humans and other cats. They tend to be quite playful too. Another trait they are known for is their vocal aptitude; they can extremely vocal when they are looking for attention with a loud, low pitched voice often compared to that of a baby! Siamese cats do love company and if you work or are out of the house often, it may be wise to acquire them as a pair.   Everything You Need to Buy For Your New Siamese Cat Cat Carrier First and foremost you will need to transport your new Siamese Kitten home safely. Whether it’s a short journey or a long one, a good quality cat carrier is essential. Choose a cat carrier which is large enough for your kitten to grow into as an adult, and can be safely belted into the backseat of the car. It's also worth noting where the openings are as most have a really practical top opening. The top opening is an ideal feature for nervous new kittens, especially when you first take them to the vet.   Cat Blanket One tip we often tell prospective kitten and puppy owners is to leave a blanket with their new arrival whilst they still live with Mum. This blanket will keep the smell of Mum and litter mates when you bring them home and help to give them comfort in their new environment. A small scent blanket might be the ideal option as it is small and compact and can be popped in the carrier with kitten when you collect them. You could then size up to a full cat sized blanket which will make a really cosy addition to their bed. We make a wonderful range of cat blankets in velvet, teddy fleece and faux fur. You may find it hard to decide on your favourite!         Cat Bed We all know how much cats love to catnap! Cats can be fickle creatures and, no matter whether you provide them with a bed or not, they will likely enjoy curling up in all kinds of spots around the house; probably the sunny windowsill or arm of the sofa! We’d still suggest providing them with their own bed though - somewhere soft and cosy that is a place of their own to retreat to. We stock a wide range of cat beds, all with super squishy, plush fabrics that cats will love to snooze in.   Cat Litter Tray & Accessories The likelihood is that your Siamese kitten will be an indoor cat. But even if you plan to let them outside it’s best to have a litter tray indoors as well. Our Lords & Labradors Cat washroom has been designed to disguise your cat’s litter tray and to look like a piece of furniture. You can pop a regular litter tray inside and store accessories on the shelf. A really practical and stylish way to house your litter tray. Don’t forget to buy a litter scoop for cleaning day. We’d suggest a good quality clumping litter to make cleaning really simple and reduce the amount of mess and waste.   Cat Bowls You’ll need at least two pet bowls for food and water. You may want a third so you can feed wet and dry food. Choose a shallow design meaning they’re whisker friendly. Here at Lords & Labradors we have a range of super stylish additions to your kitchen!   Cat Scratch Post A scratch post is an essential item for all cat owners. As your Siamese is likely to be an indoor cat, we’d suggest something quite large so they can climb, exercise, stretch, lounge and scratch. Scratching is an important part of a cat’s routine ensuring their claws stay healthy and the dead husks are removed. It’s also when they stretch out their muscles - it’s important to encourage them to do it in the right places, rather than prohibit them from doing it at all. Choose a scratch tree with plenty of platforms and a little hideaway and it might just become their favourite place to lounge!   Cat Toys Siamese kittens tend to be playful, even into adulthood. Provide them with plenty of catnip toys so they can play games of hunt and chase. You may even be able to teach them a game of fetch. If they will be indoor cats, giving them plenty of things to do to keep them occupied and keep boredom at bay is really important. The range of cat toys by KONG are particularly good as many of them have catnip refills. Alternatively, Catit make a wonderful range of toys; their catnip toys will keep your cat playing for hours, whilst the Catit Senses Range of toys is designed to appeal with all of your cats unique senses in mind.   Cat Grooming Accessories Siamese cats are short haired and will take only minimal grooming. It’s still a good idea to brush them every now and then as it will provide bonding time for you both whilst keeping their skin and coat healthy. A soft slicker brush is ideal as it will massage as well as comb the hair.   Cat Collar Cat Collars aren’t essential, but you may choose to put a collar on your cat for aesthetics and in case they go missing (you might want to add a name tag with your contact details). Choose a collar with a safety feature so it will easily come undone if the collar gets caught. There are even matching bow ties you can match to the collar for that added pizazz. Bow ties are perfect for special occasion events like Christmas and birthdays when you want your cat to look their very best for the camera!   Pet Calming Products These may not be an essential, but it can be beneficial to keep a pet calming spray or plug-in-diffuser handy at times when your cat might get nervous. Moving home itself can be stressful for nervous kittens. We like the pet calming products by Pet Remedy. They are made of pet safe natural oils and will help keep your bundle of joy relaxed and calm.

By Zac Girdlestone

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Everything You Need For Your New Maine Coon Kitten
14.05.20 May 14, 2020 Cat Breed Guide Featured

Everything You Need For Your New Maine Coon Kitten

The Maine Coon is the largest breed of domestic cat. A beautiful, tiger-like cat with distinctive features and a semi-long coat. A hugely popular choice of pet both here and across the Atlantic, the Maine Coon is known for its intelligence and playful, yet gentle, personality. They are a really sociable cat and therefore make very popular companion pets. Here we take a closer look at the breed and discuss what you will need to buy if you're getting a Maine Coon kitten. The History of the Maine Coon The exact origin of the Maine Coon is unknown, as no records exist showing their introduction. There are many hypotheses, but the most likely is that they are closely related to the Norwegian Forest cat and the Siberian. The first mention of the Maine Coon was back in 1861 in a book entitled “The Book of the cat” by Frances Simpson. From then on there have been records of Maine Coons in shows around the United States. The popularity of the breed has risen and they are now the 3rd most popular breed in both the UK and the USA. The gentle giant of the feline world, they are known for their loyal, yet independent, nature. They can have any markings and colours that other cats have, but what stands them apart from their feline cousins is their large size, long fur with lion-like ruff and lynx-like tufted ears.   What Should I Get for My Maine Coon Kitten? So you’ve decided to get a Maine Coon? Perhaps you want to know what to get for them? Well we thought we'd bring you a Maine Coon Shopping List to help you prepare for their arrival. Here are our recommendations for this beautiful breed: Large Size Cat Litter Tray - A large size hooded litter tray is ideal to give them the room and privacy to toilet in comfort. Giving them a space to toilet in peace is a must and a hooded design will help keep the area around the tray clean when they dig and cover their waste. The large hooded tray from Catit is perfect with its wider than average dimensions. You could also opt for a basic litter tray inside one of our Cat Washrooms. The cat washroom is a furniture piece that will disguise your cat litter tray and look lovely in the home. You could use the little shelf for cat supplies or just pop a vase of flowers on top to make it look like an end table.  High Wall Bouclé Bed For Cats - All cats love a good snooze and Maine Coons are no different.  A cat bed that is soft and plump will ensure they have somewhere to sleep and nap when they please. Our Luxury cat bed are large and squishy and feature a cosy sherpa fleece top. A round shape with high sides will provide your cat the most comfortable nights slumber. The main body of the bed is made from our best selling Bouclé fabric, it comes in three colours specially selected to complement your home. Prescribed Kitten Diet - When planning your cat’s diet you should definitely read the instructions of whatever food you choose and also speak to your breeder or previous owner. Feeding a good quality cat food is always the best option. Try to choose a food with high quality ingredients and a high meat content! Of course, cats are all individuals, so it may come down to your cat’s personal taste too. Make sure to start with a kitten specific diet and then steadily move on to an adult cat food later. Always read the recommendations of the specific brand you choose as they will vary. Cat Bowls for Food and Water - You will need at least two bowls; one for water and one for food, a third if you’re going to feed both wet and dry food. There are a number of gorgeous bowls and saucers in our shop. Which you choose will come down to personal preference but we’re particularly fond of the Tarhong range which fuses style and practicality! Cat Scratch Tree - Offering your cat the best indoor environment should be priority. Even if your cat will spend time outdoors, giving them a great indoor home will only enhance their life. Cats love to scratch, it’s not only a habit, but a way to keep their claws healthy and for them to keep their muscles supple, so providing them with a cat scratch tree is important. A tall scratch post with platform is advisable so they have somewhere to sate their scratching needs as well as lounge. Maine Coons grow to be very large cats so invest in a large tree from the beginning so you don’t have to keep repurchasing. PetRebels have designed a range of  cat trees especially for Maine Coons, made to be big and strong to these trees make the perfect playground for your Maine Coon. Cat Grooming Kit - Getting the right grooming kit for your Maine Coon is a must. The catit longhair grooming kit is ideal as it has all the brushes and combs needed to ensure your kitten’s coat stays in tip top condition. There are many guides on how to groom cats and the Catit kit itself comes with some great information. We’d aim for a daily brush at least, but you’ll soon get to know your cat’s coat and be able to groom as often as you think necessary to keep the coat tangle-free. Cat Shampoo - You may find brushing isn’t quite enough and choose to bathe your cat as well. It shouldn’t need to be done more than once a month and if you begin bathing whilst they are a kitten they should soon get used to the routine. Animology make a great quality cat shampoo called ‘Feline Great’. This shampoo is 100% pet safe and will promote a healthy coat. Don’t forget to dry them off well so they don’t get cold. Bathing isn’t an absolute necessity for most cats as they tend to be able to keep themselves clean, but it can be a useful thing to get them used to. There may be times where they get themselves dirty to a point where a bath is the only practical way of cleaning them! Cat Toys -  Provide your cat with a variety of cat toys so they don’t get bored. A range of catnip toys such as mice and balls are a great choice as cats love to hunt! Whatever you choose, try to offer a number of different options so they don’t get bored and rotate the toys every few weeks, to keep them interested. Playtime is great bonding time so find a toy or too that will require some involvement form you too, such a wand teaser.

By Zac Girdlestone

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Everything You Need For Your New Persian Kitten
11.02.20 February 11, 2020 Cat Breed Guide Featured

Everything You Need For Your New Persian Kitten

We are all familiar with the distinct looks of the Persian breed; their large round eyes and dense long fur being the two main features. Generally a quiet breed, they are extremely popular pets and suit an indoor lifestyle. They tend to be very close to their owners, the epitome of a lap cat, and also tend to be friendly towards strangers. This agreeable personality and cute good looks mean they are the 3rd and 5th most popular cat breeds in the USA and UK respectively. Here we take a closer look at the Persian and consider all the things you’ll need if you’re thinking of making a Persian your next pet!   The History of the Persian Breed There's no doubt about it, Persians are one of the oldest domesticated cat breeds. It is not fully clear when Persians first appeared, but the first documented ancestor of this long-haired cat was in Italy in 1620. Recent research has found that present day Persians are in fact descended from cats bred in Western Europe rather than their Near Eastern cousins. Today there are two main types of Persian: the traditional or Doll-face and the Peke-face and ultra type. The Doll-Face is essentially the most traditional of the breed, without the extreme features of the more recently developed, flat-faced peke-face and ultra types. In general the former are more popular amongst pet owners and the latter more favoured by those who show their cats.   What Should I Get for My Persian Kitten? So you’ve decided to get a Persian? Congratulations are in order! If you're not sure what to buy for them though, we're here to help. Like most cats, the essentials are pretty much the same, but there is one really important factor when it comes to Persians: Grooming! They needs lots of grooming!  Take a look at our shopping list here where we make our recommendations for this beautiful breed: Large Size Litter Tray - A large sized hooded cat litter tray is ideal to give them the room and privacy to toilet in comfort. It’s highly likely they will be indoor pets, so giving them a space to toilet in peace is a must.  Velvet Cat Bed - Persians tend to live very steady lifestyles and will be happy mainly lying around and snoozing. A cat bed that is soft and plump will ensure they have somewhere to sleep and nap when they please. Our Luxury velvet cushions are perfect as they have the good looks your Persian deserves as well as the cosy comfort!  Prescribed Diet - When planning your Persian cat’s diet you should take into consideration their typically less active lifestyle and their plush coat. Feeding a good quality food that is low in fat is often the best option and if you can find a food that promotes a healthy coat even better! If you’re unsure of where to start, it’s always a good idea to chat to your breeder and your vet. Of course cat’s are all individuals, so things like flavour may come down to your cat’s personal taste too. Food and Water Bowl - You will need at least two bowls; one for water and one for food, a third if you're going to feed both wet and dry food. There are a number of gorgeous bowls in our shop. Which you choose will come down to personal preference. Scratch Tree - As we’ve mentioned before, Persian’s tend to lead a less active lifestyle than many other breeds. With this in mind, offering as much opportunity to exercise and scratch indoors is a must. A tall scratch post with platform is advisable so they have somewhere to sate their scratching needs as well as lounge. Grooming Kit - Getting the right grooming kit for Persian cats is a must. The catit longhair grooming kit is ideal as it has all the tools necessary to keep your cat’s coat in tip top condition. Persians have a fine topcoat with a very dense undercoat and ensuring you take care of the hair from root to tip is imperative. There are many guides on how to groom cats and the Catit kit itself comes with some great information. It might be worth taking your cat to a professional groomer once a month too,  just to keep on top of it properly. A daily brush at least, is essential. Cat Shampoo - You may find brushing isn’t quite enough and choose to bathe your cat as well. It shouldn’t need to be done more than once a month (unless you plan to show your cat) and if you begin bathing whilst they are a kitten they should soon get used to the routine. Animology make a great quality cat shampoo called ‘Feline Great’. This shampoo is 100% pet safe and will promote a healthy coat. Don’t forget to dry them off well so they don’t get cold.  Cat Toys -  Provide your cat with a variety of cat toys so they don’t get bored. Persian cats generally lead very happy lives indoors, but this doesn’t mean they don’t ever get bored. Provide them with an environment that will stimulate their minds. As well as a scratch post give them a couple of teaser toys and some catnip mice to bat about. They may not be as playful or energetic as some other breeds, but they will definitely appreciate some fun activities around their home. If you have any questions about our article, please do get in touch. We love to hear from you and will be happy to help in any way we can. And on another note, don't forget to send us your pictures. We love to see pictures of your four legged friends!  

By Zac Girdlestone

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Everything You Need For Your New British Shorthair Kitten
14.01.20 January 14, 2020 Cat Breed Guide Featured

Everything You Need For Your New British Shorthair Kitten

It is probably no surprise that the British Shorthair is the most popular pedigree breed in the UK. Who couldn’t fall for those big amber eyes and super squishy cheeks?! They are not only loved for their beautiful, teddybear-like appearance, but for their loving temperament. Rather than the usual feline aloofness, British Shorthairs are known for their loving nature making them great family pets. They are less independent than other breeds, love human company and will follow their owners from room to room. In this article, we talk a little about the history of the breed and then discuss the ideal shopping list for those who are about to bring their new British Shorthair kitten home.   The History of the British Shorthair Cat They're the oldest pedigree breed in England and once known as the British Blue as that was their only coat colour, they are thought to have descended from domestic cats imported from Egypt. They became extremely popular in the Victorian era and were the only breed to be shown at some of the earliest cat shows. They almost became extinct after the World Wars but were revitalised, with the American Cat Association accepting the breed in 1967 followed by the International Cat Association and Cat Fanciers Association in 1979 and 1980 respectively. Since then the breed has only grown further in popularity and can be seen in almost every coat colour - the most popular is still Blue (grey).   British Shorthair Kitten Shopping List Are you wondering what to buy your British Shorthair Kitten? Here are our recommendations: Lords and Labradors Cat Washroom  While British Shorthairs love company and being around their human parents, they do like privacy when they go to the loo! Our Lords and Labradors Cat Washrooms will provide a private space to do their business. The breed can grow quite large; they are naturally round with a broad chest so make sure you choose a litter tray large enough for them.   Cosy Cat Bed There are a number of options when it comes to cat beds. We all know cats can be stubborn and once they find their favourite spot to sleep, no amount of coaxing will get them to sleep elsewhere. It’s best to see what kind of thing they like to sleep on and go from there. Shop our full range and choose your favourite - there is a bed to suit every cat and every interior decor too!   Cat Food British Shorthairs mainly live indoors and due to their naturally sedentary lifestyle and huge appetites can gain weight quickly. We’d suggest a good quality food designed for indoor, less active cats that is lower in fat. You could speak to your vet for their opinion and also your breeder to find out what their cats eat. We tend to suggest a mix of dry food and wet for all cats. The dry food helps clean their teeth whilst the wet helps to keep them hydrated - cats naturally don’t tend to drink vast amounts of water. Keep a bowl of dry food down all day for grazing along with fresh water and then feed a meal or two of wet food; one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Every cat is a little different and finding the right food for your particular cat will come with time and advice form your vet if needed.   Cat Bowls You will need bowls to put their food in. We love small bowls as they're ideal for dry food and water whilst the saucers are perfect for a portion of wet food.  Catit also make a cat water fountain. As we said before, many cats will shun their water bowl and drink little. The fountain provides a trickle of filtered water which may just encourage fussy cats to drink more. Many cats favour running water over still - how many of you have a cat who takes a drink from a running tap?!  The filtration also means the water stays fresh and free of any nasties.    Shorthair Cat Grooming Kit The British Shorthair is known for its thick, plush coat which doesn’t require a lot of attention. A weekly brush should usually suffice with a more regular groom during shedding seasons which are usually in the Spring and Autumn.   Scratch Post or Tree Most people will keep to choose their pedigree cat indoors. British Shorthairs in particular can be rather relaxed and trusting so letting them out isn’t always the best idea. If they are going to be indoor pets, then a decently proportioned cat scratch tree is a must. A series of posts and platforms will Gove them an area to exercise and allow them to scratch. Rather than a bad habit, scratching is a necessary , natural instinct in cats and keeps their claws healthy and allows them to stretch out their muscles. We’d definitely suggest investing in a tree as large as you have room for. Obviously if you live a small apartment or flat you will need to be clever about what you choose. You could opt for some platforms that attach to the wall if you have limited floor space and then have just a small post on the floor. Whatever you choose, creating an environment that allows your cat to exercise and fulfilling their scratching needs is a must.     Cat Toys! It’s important to give your cat plenty of stimulation, especially those living solely indoors. A series of toys will help with development, appeal to their hunting instincts and is also great bonding time with owners. Buy a mixture of toys; some catnip mice for them to play hunt, a wand teaser toy so you can play with them and perhaps a puzzle toy with a tasty treat reward. Try to rotate their toys so that they don’t get bored. New things should keep them interested longer!   Cat Carrier Whether you need something for short journeys or longer ones, a good quality carrier in an appropriate size is a must-have. You will need something from the day you collect your new bundle of joy to transport them home in safety. Our favourite is the Mobile Dog Gear Pet Carrier plus. This has a number of features to make journeying with your cat a breeze. The top opening makes trips to the vet super easy, there are fitted bowls for feeding on longer journeys and it can be seat belted into the car for safety. An all round super product!

By Zac Girdlestone

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Everything You Need For Your New Bengal Kitten
05.11.19 November 05, 2019 Cat Breed Guide Featured

Everything You Need For Your New Bengal Kitten

So you’ve made the decision to get a Bengal kitten? First of all, congratulations! Bengals are a beautiful, intelligent breed and your new feline friend is sure to bring you much joy. Now you’ve made the decision to get a Bengal cat, you might be wondering what you’re going to need for them. Here we take a closer look at the breed and discuss what items you'll need for them.    The Bengal Breed Wild Cat - The Bengal’s bloodline comes from the Asian leopard cat mixed with the domestic cat. They have inherited many of their wild ancestors traits, making them a truly unique pet to own. Depending on their generation (F1 are most closely related to their Asian Leopard heritage, with F2 being a generation down and F3 one down further) Bengals will show a certain amount of adventurousness - the closer to an F1 they are, the more boisterous they might be! Chatty Cats - Bengals are renowned for being vocal.  One of the breeds involved in the initial breeding of the Bengal was the Siamese which are known for their chatty nature. Bengals often like to “talk” to their owners… and aren’t too keen on being ignored! Hunters -  All cats have a natural hunting instinct, but it is particularly strong in the Bengal breed. They are among the most active and successful hunters of all domestic cat breeds. If your Bengal is going to be an indoor cat , which many are, you might want to provide plenty of interaction for them.   Bengal Cat Shopping List: Cat Bed Offering your cat their own space for nap time is a good idea - they may well find a spot on the windowsill or back of an armchair that they like too, but giving them a cat bed of their own offers them a place to retreat to if they want their space. Every cat is different, some more social than others; some cats will choose to sit on or next to you, others will slink off somewhere quiet. A hooded cat bed is a nice option as it offers the privacy that many cats crave.       Cat Litter Tray & Accessories A must for all cats, especially indoor cats, a good quality litter tray and litter is essential. We like the hooded trays as cats tend to like their privacy. We also recommend a clumping litter which allows you to scoop out the waste without fully emptying the tray. It can cost more upfront, but a bag will last much longer, therefore saving in the long-run.      Scratch Tree - A tall, tall scratch tree! As we’ve mentioned, Bengals are an active, energetic breed and they’ll need plenty of places to climb and exercise, especially as they are more likely to be kept indoors. A tall scratch tree with plenty of platforms is a really good idea as well as some wall mounted platforms. If you have room for something like this in various rooms around the house it will help ensure your cat has plenty of chance for exercise and keep boredom levels low. They may even make one of the platforms their bed, as cats enjoy being high up.   Food and Water Bowls You will need cat bowls or saucers for their food and water. If you can, offer both dry and wet food as well as water. We’d suggest keeping dry food available all day for them to graze on and then give them a wet food meal once or twice a day. Always make sure they have access to water too, whether that’s a cat drinking fountain or a normal bowl.   Lots of Cat Toys!! Keeping your Bengal entertained will be a full time job! Ensure they have plenty of toys of various types to keep them occupied. Something to hunt and chase as well as something more interactive will ensure they don’t get bored and keep them mentally stimulated. The Catit Senses 2.0 range of toys is ideal for active indoor cats as the various pieces available can be slotted together in different layouts to create an interactive cat activity centre. There are a number of different sets - you could buy one or two for when they’re a kitten and then keep adding more as they grow older. Change the layouts regularly to keep your cat coming back for more! Cat Carrier You’ll need a carrier to transport your cat home and also for vet visits and any other time they may need to travel. If you’ll only need it for short journeys then a fabric carrier may be sufficient. If you are likely to go on longer car journeys then a hard bodied carrier which are car, train and airline approved will be a better option. Safety is paramount and investing in a carrier with more features is highly recommended.     Pet Calming Products These aren’t necessarily an essential, but some kind of calming product might just help your new arrival settle in more quickly. All pets can suffer from nerves in various situations - moving house, noisy situations such as bonfire night or halloween etc. Pet Remedy have this sorted with their all natural range of calming sprays, plug-in diffusers and wipes.   Cat Harness & Lead Again, this isn’t necessarily an essential, but many people do choose to train their indoor cat on a harness and lead. If you introduce the harness to them whilst they’re a kitten, they should take to it quite quickly. It’s a nice idea to get indoor cats outside for a bit of exercise in a controlled way without the risk of them running off. A little venture out is sure to appeal to your Bengal’s adventuress nature! Do make sure they have all their inoculations before you take them out though and ensure they have been treated for fleas.   Cat Grooming Products Bengals are a short haired breed and so only minimal grooming will be necessary. They have a shallow, low-lying coat which tends to shed very little. They are likely to be able to take care of their own grooming, but a light brush once or twice a week will offer valuable bonding time for you and your pet and also help reduce shedding.  We hope you find our Bengal Shopping List helpful. This isn't a definitive list, but rather a collection of the things we think will most suit this breed in particular. Do have a good browse of the other cat accessories in our online shop. We have a plethora of lovely things that will appeal to cats of all breeds.  If you have any questions about any of the items suggested do get in touch. We're here to help in any way we can!

By Zac Girdlestone

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Everything You Need For Your New Ragdoll Kitten
13.08.19 August 13, 2019 Cat Breed Guide Featured

Everything You Need For Your New Ragdoll Kitten

The easy-going, loving nature of the Ragdoll Breed makes them a very popular pet. Their distinctive pointed coat and vivid blue  eyes make them arguably one of the most beautful breeds.  Whilst they can be independent at times, they tend to be sociable cats who are as good with other animals in the household as they are with their human family members. If you’ve never owned a Ragdoll before (perhaps you’ve never owned a cat at all?!), you may be wondering how best to look after them. Whilst they have many of the same needs as a normal cat, there are a few things that Ragdolls like and need in particular. Here we take a look at everything you need for your Ragdoll Cat and give a few tips on how to look after them:   Everything in a Size Large! Ragdoll Cats are one of the largest domestic breeds and with this in mind, you should aim to buy your cat’s accessories in a size large. A large litter box that allows them to move around in comfortably and a large cat bed that they can stretch out on. Also consider a fairly tall scratch post - cats like to stretch out their muscles as they scratch so giving them a tall post will allow them to stretch out their bodies. Finally, a roomy carrier for those necessary trips to the vet. Cosy Cat Bed Litter Tray Tall Scratch Post Pet Carrier   Ragdoll Cat Grooming Ragdolls are known for their distinctive good looks. The typical Ragdoll has a siamese-like pointed coat and has semi-long, fine hair. They don’t need as much grooming as a other longhaired breeds such as Persians, but they do need a moderate amount, a couple of times a week. Ensuring you have the right grooming tools is essential for keeping your cat’s coat healthy, knot-free and shiny. Ensure you have a range oc combs and brushes to enable you to keep their coats tangle free and smooth. Grooming is a really good way to bond with your kitten. Start from the first week you get them home so it becomes normal to them and always brush them when they are relaxed, with gentle strokes. A good grooming regime will help stop shedding and hairballs developing too.   Ragdoll Cat Toys Whilst Ragdolls have a more laid-back temperament compared to other feline breeds, they still like to hunt and play like other cats. Provide your cat with a series of cat balls or mice and perhaps a wand teaser toy. Playtime will offer bonding time and exercise and will help your cat sate their desire to “chase their prey”. Ragdoll Cats are famously intelligent and will benefit from interactive toys too. The Catit Senses 2.0 range is ideal for Ragdolls, offering stimulating playtime. From puzzle toys that offer a tasty treat as a prize, to scratch and massage accessories; your cat is sure to love the Catit Senses 2.0 range.   Indoor or Outdoor Cat? One of the most important considerations is whether they should be indoor or outdoor cats. Whilst there is a strong argument that cats, no matter the breed, should be able to live outdoors to aid their natural instinct to roam and hunt, you should definitely consider whether this is the best idea for your Ragdoll. The Ragdoll breed is known for their loving temperament - one of the things that makes them so desirable. This also makes them rather trusting in nature; they are not likely to defend themselves against other cats, making them more susceptible to disease and parasites.  Many people choose to keep their pedigree cats indoors and as long as you provide them with the accessories and furniture they need, they will live a happy and healthy life. Read our recent Indoor Cat Care Guide here.

By Zac Girdlestone

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