The Advantages of Microchipping Your Pet - National Microchipping Month
10.06.20 June 10, 2020 Getting A Kitten

The Advantages of Microchipping Your Pet - National Microchipping Month

June is national microchipping month here in the UK, so what better time to talk about what microchipping is and the benefits? Microchipping is one of the most effective ways of protecting your dog or cat in the event that they are lost or stolen. Thousands of pets are reported missing every year and a large proportion of those are never reunited with their rightful owner. The main reason for them not making it back home is the inability to trace their family. It’s now a legal requirement that all dogs and cats in the UK are microchipped Here we take a look at all the benefits and explain why we think you should definitely get your pets, cat and dog alike, microchipped. In this article, we will explore the benefits of microchipping, the laws surrounding microchipping for different pets, the procedure itself, and how to register and update your pet's microchip details. So let's dive in and learn more about this valuable tool in ensuring the safety and well-being of our pets. Microchipping Overview A microchip is a tiny ID device which can be scanned to identify a pet They are used to identify lost or stolen pets and reunite them with their owners It’s a legal requirement for dogs over the age of 8 weeks and kittens over the age of 20 weeks to be microchipped It’s a quick procedure which is relatively painless
   What Is A Microchip? Microchips are tiny devices that are the size of a grain of rice, they are implanted just below the pet’s skin, usually by your Vet. It is a very simple procedure, similar to a vaccination that needs no anaesthesia or special treatment. The microchip carries all the important information needed to trace you, the owner, should your cat or dog lose their way. These microchips can then be read by a handheld device that will display the owners information. Most veterinarians and animal shelters will have one of these devices, so the chip can be read and the owner contacted if the pet is lost.   Does Getting A Microchip Hurt? Your vet will use a needle to insert the microchip so it may be a little uncomfortable for your pet, however it only take a few seconds. Many pets don’t even notice!   What Pets Can Be Microchipped? A lot of pets can be microchipped, the most common ones are dogs, cats, horses and rabbits. If you’re not sure your vet will be able to advise you on whether microchipping is suitable for your pet.   What Are The Microchip Laws Microchipping Your Dog Laws Microchipping your dog is compulsory in the UK, we’ve put everything you need to know about microchipping your dog below: All dogs over 8 weeks old must be microchipped As a breeder it’s your responsibility to microchip any puppies by 8 weeks old As a dog owner it’s your responsibility to make sure your dog’s microchip details are up to date As well as having up to date microchip details, your dog should wear a collar with an ID tag on. You’re required to put your surname and address on the tag, we also recommend putting a contact number and ‘I’m Microchipped’ on there just in case your dog does go missing it will hopefully make being reunited that little bit quicker. Microchipping Your Cat Laws As of March 2023, it’s now the law to get your kitten microchipped before they’re 20 weeks old. The government have given owners until 10th June 2024 to microchip their cats As an owner it your responsibility to make sure that your cat is microchipped and that your details are up to date We recommend microchipping your cat if they are either indoor or outdoor, this way if they go missing you can ensure they’re easy to identify and return home Microchipping Other Pets Laws It’s not a legal requirement in the UK to have any other pets microchipped, it’s a good thing to consider. You can microchip most pets, including rabbits, guinea pigs, tortoises and other small family pets which are known for escaping.   What Happens If I Don’t Microchip My Pet? If you’re pet is found without a microchip you could be served with an order to microchip them within 21 days, if you don’t do it in that time frame you could be liable to pay a £500 fine.   How Do I Get My Pet Microchipped? To get your pet microchipped all you’ll need to do is make an appointment with your vet or another qualified person, some rescue centres have trained staff who can also microchip pets. The most important thing to make sure of is that whoever is microchipping your pet is trained to do so.   The Benefits of Microchipping your Pet A microchip can’t be lost - Whilst an ID tag on a collar is useful, these can be lost or break off quite easily. Some indoor pets may not even wear a collar, in which case a microchip is an ideal way of ensuring your pet is traceable. A microchip offers definitive proof -  If your cat or dog is stolen, the microchip offers definitive proof of ownership.  A collar can easily be swapped, but a microchip can’t be removed.    Microchips have been proven to increase the likelihood of your lost pet being returned - Whilst findings vary slightly from study to study, the overall findings are the same. Microchipped pets are much more likely to be returned to their owners than none-microchipped pets. Some studies find that the chances are increased by as much 50%. Some microchips now come with added capabilities - Some chips come with the ability to program them to a pet door flap so only your pets can come and go. This is really handy to stop other animals from accessing your house.   How Much Does It Cost To Microchip Your Pets? It usually cost between £10-£15 to microchip your pet, however this varies depending on where you get it done. Some charities, such as Blue Cross, actually offer microchipping for free so it’s definitely worth seeing if there’s a rescue centre local to you that has a microchipping scheme.   How Do I Register My Pet’s Microchip? When your pet gets microchipped they will give the microchipping database company your details. They will ask for your name, address, phone number, pet’s details and emergency contacts. If your puppy or kitten gets microchipped by the breeder they should give you a form or contact details for the microchipping company so you can update their chip with your details.   How Do I Update My Pet’s Microchip Details? If you’re moving house or change phone numbers you will need to update your pet’s microchip details. How to do this will depend on which microchip database company your pet’s microchip is registered to (you can check this on www.checkachip.com), but usually you will have an online account that you can log in to and update any details.   What Should I Do If I Rehome Or Sell My Pet Before you sell or rehome your dog we recommend updating the microchip database details to the new owners.   What Should I Do If My Pet Is Lost Or Stolen If your pet is lost or stolen, we recommend calling your pet’s microchip database company straight away to report them missing. They will be able to check your details are up to date and flag on the system that the pet associated with that microchip is missing. This way if their microchip is scanned by a vet or a dog warden it will alert to them they’re missing or stolen, and they will then be able to get in contact with you and reunite you with your pet.   How Long Do Microchips Last For
? Microchips are designed to last your pet’s lifetime. It’s very rare for them to become faulty or not scan, if this does happen the microchip company will usually replace it for free. So what are you waiting for?! If you haven’t already got your pet microchipped, then we’d strongly suggest doing so, you never know when you’ll need it!

By Zac Girdlestone

Read more

June is national microchipping month here in the UK, so what better time to talk about what microchipping is and the benefits?

Microchipping is one of the most effective ways of protecting your dog or cat in the event that they are lost or stolen. Thousands of pets are reported missing every year and a large proportion of those are never reunited with their rightful owner. The main reason for them not making it back home is the inability to trace their family.

It’s now a legal requirement that all dogs and cats in the UK are microchipped Here we take a look at all the benefits and explain why we think you should definitely get your pets, cat and dog alike, microchipped.

In this article, we will explore the benefits of microchipping, the laws surrounding microchipping for different pets, the procedure itself, and how to register and update your pet's microchip details. So let's dive in and learn more about this valuable tool in ensuring the safety and well-being of our pets.

Microchipping Overview

  • A microchip is a tiny ID device which can be scanned to identify a pet
  • They are used to identify lost or stolen pets and reunite them with their owners
  • It’s a legal requirement for dogs over the age of 8 weeks and kittens over the age of 20 weeks to be microchipped
  • It’s a quick procedure which is relatively painless


 

What Is A Microchip?

Microchips are tiny devices that are the size of a grain of rice, they are implanted just below the pet’s skin, usually by your Vet. It is a very simple procedure, similar to a vaccination that needs no anaesthesia or special treatment. The microchip carries all the important information needed to trace you, the owner, should your cat or dog lose their way.

These microchips can then be read by a handheld device that will display the owners information. Most veterinarians and animal shelters will have one of these devices, so the chip can be read and the owner contacted if the pet is lost.

Ginger cat being microchipped

 

Does Getting A Microchip Hurt?

Your vet will use a needle to insert the microchip so it may be a little uncomfortable for your pet, however it only take a few seconds. Many pets don’t even notice!

 

What Pets Can Be Microchipped?

A lot of pets can be microchipped, the most common ones are dogs, cats, horses and rabbits. If you’re not sure your vet will be able to advise you on whether microchipping is suitable for your pet.

Labrador at the vets

 

What Are The Microchip Laws

Microchipping Your Dog Laws

Microchipping your dog is compulsory in the UK, we’ve put everything you need to know about microchipping your dog below:

  • All dogs over 8 weeks old must be microchipped
  • As a breeder it’s your responsibility to microchip any puppies by 8 weeks old
  • As a dog owner it’s your responsibility to make sure your dog’s microchip details are up to date
  • As well as having up to date microchip details, your dog should wear a collar with an ID tag on. You’re required to put your surname and address on the tag, we also recommend putting a contact number and ‘I’m Microchipped’ on there just in case your dog does go missing it will hopefully make being reunited that little bit quicker.

Microchipping Your Cat Laws

  • As of March 2023, it’s now the law to get your kitten microchipped before they’re 20 weeks old.
  • The government have given owners until 10th June 2024 to microchip their cats
  • As an owner it your responsibility to make sure that your cat is microchipped and that your details are up to date
  • We recommend microchipping your cat if they are either indoor or outdoor, this way if they go missing you can ensure they’re easy to identify and return home

Microchipping Other Pets Laws

It’s not a legal requirement in the UK to have any other pets microchipped, it’s a good thing to consider. You can microchip most pets, including rabbits, guinea pigs, tortoises and other small family pets which are known for escaping.

 

What Happens If I Don’t Microchip My Pet?

If you’re pet is found without a microchip you could be served with an order to microchip them within 21 days, if you don’t do it in that time frame you could be liable to pay a £500 fine.

 

How Do I Get My Pet Microchipped?

To get your pet microchipped all you’ll need to do is make an appointment with your vet or another qualified person, some rescue centres have trained staff who can also microchip pets. The most important thing to make sure of is that whoever is microchipping your pet is trained to do so.

Golden Retriever having their microchip checked

 

The Benefits of Microchipping your Pet

  1. A microchip can’t be lost - Whilst an ID tag on a collar is useful, these can be lost or break off quite easily. Some indoor pets may not even wear a collar, in which case a microchip is an ideal way of ensuring your pet is traceable.
  2. A microchip offers definitive proof -  If your cat or dog is stolen, the microchip offers definitive proof of ownership.  A collar can easily be swapped, but a microchip can’t be removed.   
  3. Microchips have been proven to increase the likelihood of your lost pet being returned - Whilst findings vary slightly from study to study, the overall findings are the same. Microchipped pets are much more likely to be returned to their owners than none-microchipped pets. Some studies find that the chances are increased by as much 50%.
  4. Some microchips now come with added capabilities - Some chips come with the ability to program them to a pet door flap so only your pets can come and go. This is really handy to stop other animals from accessing your house.

 

How Much Does It Cost To Microchip Your Pets?

It usually cost between £10-£15 to microchip your pet, however this varies depending on where you get it done. Some charities, such as Blue Cross, actually offer microchipping for free so it’s definitely worth seeing if there’s a rescue centre local to you that has a microchipping scheme.

 

How Do I Register My Pet’s Microchip?

When your pet gets microchipped they will give the microchipping database company your details. They will ask for your name, address, phone number, pet’s details and emergency contacts.

If your puppy or kitten gets microchipped by the breeder they should give you a form or contact details for the microchipping company so you can update their chip with your details.

Dog at the vets

 

How Do I Update My Pet’s Microchip Details?

If you’re moving house or change phone numbers you will need to update your pet’s microchip details. How to do this will depend on which microchip database company your pet’s microchip is registered to (you can check this on www.checkachip.com), but usually you will have an online account that you can log in to and update any details.

 

What Should I Do If I Rehome Or Sell My Pet

Before you sell or rehome your dog we recommend updating the microchip database details to the new owners.

 

What Should I Do If My Pet Is Lost Or Stolen

If your pet is lost or stolen, we recommend calling your pet’s microchip database company straight away to report them missing. They will be able to check your details are up to date and flag on the system that the pet associated with that microchip is missing. This way if their microchip is scanned by a vet or a dog warden it will alert to them they’re missing or stolen, and they will then be able to get in contact with you and reunite you with your pet.

Black and white cat having their microchip checked

 

How Long Do Microchips Last For
?

Microchips are designed to last your pet’s lifetime. It’s very rare for them to become faulty or not scan, if this does happen the microchip company will usually replace it for free.

So what are you waiting for?! If you haven’t already got your pet microchipped, then we’d strongly suggest doing so, you never know when you’ll need it!

Related Products

Related Collections

Next Article
Everything You Need For Your New Yorkipoo Puppy

Related Articles

  • How Much Should My Kitten Weigh?
    03.10.24 October 03, 2024 Getting A Kitten

    How Much Should My Kitten Weigh?

    As a new kitten owner, it's natural to wonder if your furry friend is growing at a healthy rate. Monitoring your kitten's weight is crucial for ensuring proper development and identifying any potential health issues early on. This comprehensive guide will help you understand how much your kitten should weigh at various stages of their young life. The Importance of Monitoring Kitten Weight Keeping track of your kitten's weight provides insight into their overall health and well-being. Sudden weight loss or failure to gain weight can indicate underlying health problems, such as parasites or nutritional deficiencies. Conversely, excessive weight gain may lead to obesity, which can cause long-term health issues. Newborn Kittens: The Starting Point How much does a newborn kitten weigh? On average, a newborn kitten weighs between 90 to 110 grams (approximately 3 to 4 ounces). Newborn kittens are entirely dependent on their mother for nutrition and warmth. During the first week, they typically gain about 10 to 15 grams per day. Kitten Weight by Age: A Month-by-Month Guide Understanding the typical weight range for kittens at different ages can help you assess whether your kitten is on track. 2 Weeks Old By two weeks, kittens usually weigh between 170 to 230 grams (6 to 8 ounces). Their eyes begin to open, and they become more active. 4 Weeks Old At one month, kittens weigh around 350 to 450 grams (12 to 16 ounces). They start exploring their environment and may begin the weaning process. 8 Weeks Old (2 Months) How much should an 8-week-old kitten weigh? At this stage, kittens typically weigh between 800 grams to 1 kilogram (1.8 to 2.2 pounds).  9 Weeks Old A 9-week-old kitten should weigh slightly more than they did at 8 weeks, usually gaining about 100 grams per week. 10 Weeks Old How much should a 10-week-old kitten weigh? Expect your kitten to weigh between 1 to 1.2 kilograms (2.2 to 2.6 pounds). 12 Weeks Old (3 Months) How much should a 12-week-old kitten weigh? At three months, kittens generally weigh between 1.2 to 1.5 kilograms (2.6 to 3.3 pounds). 4 Months Old How much should a 4-month-old kitten weigh? A kitten at this age typically weighs between 1.8 to 2.3 kilograms (4 to 5 pounds). This is a significant growth period, and proper nutrition is essential. 5 Months Old How much should a 5-month-old kitten weigh? Expect a weight of 2.3 to 2.7 kilograms (5 to 6 pounds). 6 Months Old How much should a 6-month-old kitten weigh? By now, your kitten should weigh between 2.7 to 3.2 kilograms (6 to 7 pounds). They are approaching adolescence and may begin to exhibit adult behaviours. Factors Affecting Kitten Weight 1. Breed Different breeds have varying growth rates and mature sizes. For example, a Maine Coon kitten will weigh more at six months than a Siamese kitten due to the breed's larger size. 2. Nutrition Proper diet is crucial. Kittens require a diet rich in protein and essential nutrients to support rapid growth. Feeding high-quality kitten food ensures they receive the necessary nutrients. Shop our range of nutrient-rich kitten and cat food here. 3. Health Status Parasites, infections, and other health issues can impede weight gain. Regular vet check-ups are vital to catch and treat any problems early. How to Weigh Your Kitten Accurate weight monitoring involves regular weigh-ins: Use a Digital Scale: For precision, use a kitchen or postal scale that measures in grams and ounces. Weigh at the Same Time: Weigh your kitten at the same time each day or week to maintain consistency. Record the Weight: Keep a log to track growth over time. If it’s easier you can weigh yourself with and without your kitten and deduct your weight to get theirs. Kitten Weight Chart Creating a kitten weight chart can help visualise your kitten's growth. Here's a simplified example: Age (Weeks) Expected Weight (Grams) 1 110-170 2 170-230 4 350-450 8 800-1000 12 1200 - 1500 16 1800 - 2300 20 2300 - 2700 24  2700 - 3200   When to Be Concerned About Your Kitten's Weight If your kitten's weight is significantly below or above the average kitten weight by age, consult your vet. Signs of concern include: Underweight: Lethargy, visible ribs or spine, poor coat condition. Overweight: Difficulty moving, excessive sleeping, difficulty breathing. Conclusion Understanding how much your kitten should weigh at various stages is essential for their health and happiness. Regular monitoring, proper nutrition, and veterinary care will ensure your kitten grows into a healthy adult cat. Remember, each kitten is unique, so use this guide as a reference while considering individual differences. At Lords & Labradors, we offer a range of products to support your kitten's growth all the way into adulthood, from high-quality food to comfortable bedding and super cat trees. Shop everything your kitten needs here.

    By Megan Willis

    Read more
  • Different Growth Stages of Cats
    02.10.24 October 02, 2024 Getting A Kitten

    Different Growth Stages of Cats

    Understanding the growth stages of cats is essential for providing them with the appropriate care, nutrition, and environment they need to thrive. From tiny kittens to fully grown adults, cats undergo significant changes both physically and behaviourally. This comprehensive guide explores the feline growth stages, answering common questions like "when do cats stop growing?" and "what age can cats become pregnant?" to help you navigate your cat's developmental journey. Here at Lords & Labradors we’ve carefully curated our range of cat products to support your cat through every stage of their development. Shop our cat essentials here. Stages of a Kitten's Development Kittens grow rapidly, and their development can be categorised into several distinct stages: 1. Neonatal Stage (0-2 Weeks) In the neonatal stage, kittens are entirely dependent on their mother. They are born blind and deaf, relying on their sense of touch and smell to find warmth and food. During this period, they sleep almost constantly and are unable to regulate their body temperature. 2. Transitional Stage (2-4 Weeks) Between two to four weeks, kittens begin to open their eyes and ears, starting to respond to sounds and sights. They start to develop their sense of balance and may attempt their first steps. This is a critical phase in the kitten development stages as they begin to explore their immediate surroundings. 3. Socialisation Stage (4-12 Weeks) This stage is vital for social development. Kittens learn to interact with their mother, siblings, and humans. They start to play, which is essential for developing motor skills and social behaviours. During this period, they are weaned off their mother's milk and introduced to solid food. 4. Juvenile Stage (3-6 Months) At this stage, kittens are more independent and energetic. They experience rapid growth and refinement of their physical abilities. Training and socialisation are crucial during this time to ensure they develop into well-adjusted adults. 5. Adolescent Stage (6-12 Months) Kittens begin to reach sexual maturity during the adolescent stage. Behavioural changes may occur, such as increased territoriality or marking behaviours. It's an ideal time to consider spaying or neutering to prevent unwanted pregnancies and reduce certain behaviours. Six-Month-Old Kitten: What to Expect A six-month-old kitten is comparable to a human teenager. They are adventurous, curious, and may test boundaries. Physically, a six-month-old kitten size is about 75% of their full-grown size. This is also when many kittens become sexually mature, leading to the question, "at what age can a kitten get pregnant?" What Age Can Cats Become Pregnant? Understanding "what age can cats become pregnant?" is crucial for preventing unwanted litters. Female cats can become pregnant as early as 5 to 6 months old. Similarly, male cats can impregnate females at this age. Therefore, early spaying or neutering is recommended. When Do Kittens Stop Growing? Many cat owners wonder, "when do kittens stop growing?" The growth rate slows significantly after the first year. However, most domestic cats continue to grow until they are about 18 months old. Larger breeds, like the Maine Coon, may not reach full size until they are 3 to 4 years old. When Is a Cat Fully Grown? Determining when a cat is fully grown depends on various factors, including breed, nutrition, and overall health. Generally, cats reach full physical maturity between 18 months to 2 years of age. However, mental and emotional maturity may take a bit longer, with some cats retaining kitten-like behaviours well into adulthood. How Long Is a Cat a Kitten? Cats are generally considered kittens until they reach one year old. However, the transition from kitten to adult can vary. Kitten Growth Stages: A Summary To recap the kitten growth stages: 0-2 Weeks: Neonatal stage; entirely dependent on the mother. 2-4 Weeks: Transitional stage; sensory development begins. 4-12 Weeks: Socialisation stage; learning behaviours and social skills. 3-6 Months: Juvenile stage; rapid growth and increased independence. 6-12 Months: Adolescent stage; sexual maturity and behavioural changes. 12 Months+: Adult stage; generally a kitten is considered a cat once they reach 1 year old. How Quickly Do Kittens Grow? Kittens grow rapidly, especially in the first six months. They can double or triple their weight in just a few weeks. This rapid growth requires a nutrient-rich diet formulated for kittens to support their development. We stock plenty of high-quality and nutrient-rich kitten food which are perfect for supporting your kitten's growth.  Feline Growth Stages and Nutrition Proper nutrition is vital throughout the feline growth stages. Kittens need food high in protein, fat, and essential nutrients to support their rapid growth. As they approach adulthood, their dietary needs change, and transitioning to adult cat food is necessary. Cat Growth and Health Monitoring Regular veterinary visits are essential to monitor cat growth and development. Your vet can track weight, height, and overall health, ensuring your cat is on the right path. Conclusion Understanding the growth stages of cats is crucial for providing the best care throughout their lives. From the rapid development in kitten-hood to reaching full maturity, being informed helps you anticipate their needs and promote a healthy, happy life. Remember, while general timelines exist, each cat is unique. Factors like breed, genetics, nutrition, and health play significant roles in their development. If you have concerns or questions about your cat's growth, consult your veterinarian for personalised advice. By staying attentive to your cat's growth and development, you ensure they not only grow in size but also flourish in health and happiness, enriching both their life and yours. Shop everything you need to help nurture your kitten through all their growth stages here at Lords & Labradors. From high quality food, to luxury cat trees and interactive toys we have everything you could need.

    By Megan Willis

    Read more
  • Kitten Checklist: Everything You Need For Your Kitten
    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

    Read more
  • Turning a crate into a cosy den for your dog
    21.08.24 August 21, 2024 Getting A Puppy

    Turning a crate into a cosy den for your dog

    Did you know, crate training is one of the most effective ways to provide your puppy with a safe and secure environment? Transforming a simple crate into a cosy den can take your dog's comfort to the next level. Not only does a well-prepared crate help with training, but it also offers your dog a personal retreat where they can relax, feel secure, and unwind. In this guide, we’ll explore the essentials of turning a crate into a cosy den for your dog, with a focus on the best items to put in a puppy crate and how to create a welcoming space that your dog will love.  The Importance of a Cosy Puppy Den A cosy den mimics the natural instincts of wild canines who seek out small, enclosed spaces to rest. For your dog, their crate should be a place where they feel safe and content, not a punishment or place of confinement. A well-designed puppy den offers numerous benefits: Security: Dogs feel safer in an enclosed space, which can reduce anxiety, especially during times of stress, such as fireworks or when you're away from home. Training: Crate training aids in toilet training, helps prevent destructive behaviour, and establishes a routine. Rest: A quiet, comfortable crate allows your dog to get the rest they need without being disturbed. Choosing the Right Crate Before diving into what to put in your puppy crate, it's crucial to select the right crate for your lifestyle and breed of dog. The crate should be large enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so large that they can eliminate in one corner and sleep in another. For puppies, consider dividing your crate up by using a smaller bed such as our Cosy & Calming Puppy crate bed. Crates come in various materials, including metal, plastic, and fabric. Metal crates offer better ventilation and visibility, fabric crates are lightweight and portable but may not be suitable for dogs who chew, or for long periods of use.   What to Put in Your Puppy Crate Comfortable Bedding The foundation of a cosy den is comfortable bedding. Choose a soft, durable crate cushion or bed that fits snugly in the crate. Look for materials that are easy to clean and provide excellent support. Here at Lords & Labradors, we offer a large range of crate bedding suitable for all breeds. When choosing bedding, consider your dog’s specific needs. Puppies may prefer something plush and warm, while some dogs might benefit from a crate mat and a blanket. Ensure that the bedding suits your needs, such as machine washable or chew resistant or simply just match your home decor.   Crate Covers & Bumpers Adding a crate cover and a bumper can enhance the den-like feel of the crate. Covering the crate can create a dark, cave-like environment that many dogs find comforting. However, it’s important to monitor your dog’s reaction; some dogs may feel confined with a cover and prefer a more open view. Here at Lords & Labradors, our covers come with roll-up panels, allowing you to adjust the level of darkness and airflow to suit your and your dog’s needs. Our bumpers provide a cosy wall like environment, making the crate even cosier to snuggle into.   Toys and Chews Toys and chews are essential for keeping your dog entertained and mentally stimulated while in their crate. Choose durable, safe toys that your dog can’t destroy or swallow. Chew toys can be soothing for teething puppies and help them settle in their crate, whilst interactive toys, such as puzzle feeders or treat-dispensing balls, can also be a great addition to your puppy’s den. They provide mental stimulation and help alleviate boredom, making the crate a more inviting place for your dog.   Water Bowl or Dispenser Hydration is key, especially if your dog will be spending extended periods in their crate. A spill-proof water bowl or a water bowl that attaches to the crate can ensure your dog always has access to fresh water without making a mess.   Scented Items Dogs have a strong sense of smell, and familiar scents can be incredibly comforting. Consider placing an item that carries your scent, such as an old t-shirt or a blanket you’ve used, in the crate. This can help reduce separation anxiety and make your puppy feel closer to you when you’re not around. However, ensure that any scented item is safe for your dog. Avoid anything with loose threads or small parts that could be swallowed.   Creating a Positive Crate Experience Once you’ve set up your puppy’s den, it’s important to create positive associations with the crate. Here are some tips to help your dog love their new space: Introduce the Crate Gradually Allow your dog to explore the crate on their own terms. Leave the door open and place treats or toys inside to encourage them to enter. Reward your dog with praise and treats when they go into the crate voluntarily.   Make It a Happy Place Never use the crate as a punishment. The crate should be a positive, safe space where your dog feels secure. Feed your dog in the crate, offer special toys they only get when in the crate, and always make sure they have plenty of comfort items inside.   Use the Crate for Short Periods at First Start with short crate sessions and gradually increase the time your dog spends inside. This helps your dog get used to the crate without feeling confined. Always ensure your dog has had a chance to relieve themselves and has exercised before being crated.   Maintain a Routine Dogs thrive on routine. Set a schedule for crate time, feeding, and bathroom breaks. Consistency will help your dog understand when it’s time to relax in their crate and when it’s time to play or go outside.   Turning a crate into a cosy den for your dog is an investment in their comfort and well-being. By selecting the right crate, adding the appropriate items, and creating a positive experience, you can ensure that your dog sees their crate as a safe haven. Whether you’re crate training a puppy or providing a sanctuary for an older dog, the tips above will help you create a space that meets your dog’s needs and makes them feel right at home.   For more luxury pet essentials to complete your puppy’s den, visit Lords & Labradors, where we offer a curated selection of high-quality products to pamper your pet.  

    By Laura Rudd

    Read more