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Dogs and Toxic Oak Processionary Moth Caterpillars - Health Advice for Dogs
09.05.21 May 09, 2021 Health Featured

Dogs and Toxic Oak Processionary Moth Caterpillars - Health Advice for Dogs

With the lovely weather that Spring brings with it, there are a number of other changes to the environment too. The flora and fauna of the countryside begins to flourish and many species that have been hiding during the colder months, begin to reappear. One of the species that begins to make an appearance at this time of year is the Oak Processionary Moth Caterpillar which are mainly seen between May and July in woodland areas. These caterpillars contain a substance that is toxic to dogs and can irritate their eyes and throat. With May being Walk in the Woods month, we thought we’d highlight the problems that OPM Caterpillars can cause. In this blog we will take a closer look at the OPM Caterpillar, tell you how to identify it and explain what to do if you think your dog has come into contact with it.   What Is An Oak Processionary Moth Caterpillar? The oak Processionary is a type of moth whose caterpillars are often found in Oak trees. They tend to travel in lines, nose-to-tail, hence their name. Their bodies are covered in thousands of tiny hairs which can come away from their bodies and blow about in the wind. These hairs are incredibly irritating to pets and people causing itching, amongst other problems.   What If My Dog Touches An Oak Processionary Moth Caterpillar? Dogs love to be nosey and part of the fun of dog walks is sniffing out new and exciting things. If you’re walking in woodland your dog will love exploring the new surroundings and may well come across all kinds of things. If your dog comes into contact with an OPM; that could be sniffing, licking, picking up or eating one, you may notice a range of symptoms such as swelling, drooling, gagging, eye irritation, vomiting or difficulty breathing. Generally, symptoms won’t go any further than irritation, but it’s still best to call your vet for advice.  In rare case, dogs can suffer allergic reactions in which case you should take your dog to the vet immediately.   Can I Protect My Dog From Oak Processionary Moth Caterpillars? If you notice these caterpillars on your travels, you need to do your best to keep your dog away from them. If they’re walking off the lead, call them back to you and keep them at heel. If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned previously, give your vet a call for advice. Serious allergies are rare, but it’s best that you monitor your pet’s condition over the following days. The best thing to do is try to keep them away from the caterpillars altogether as there are no vaccines to prevent irritation or allergies.   Where Do Oak Processionary Moth Caterpillars Live? The caterpillars are found in woodland areas but can also end up in gardens and other outdoor spaces. They are mainly found in southern parts of the UK including London, Berkshire, Essex, Surrey and the surrounding areas. This doesn’t mean they won’t be found elsewhere though, and it’s worth keeping an eye out for them on any woodland dog walk.   Do Oak Processionary Moth Caterpillars Harm Humans? The effects of touching an OPM caterpillar tend to be more irritable than serious. Many people develop itchy eyes, sore throats or rashes whilst only a rare few suffer serious allergies. If you need to help remove a caterpillar from your dog, it would be best to do so whilst wearing rubber gloves to help protect your skin and dispose accordingly.   What Should I Do If I Find An Oak Processionary Moth Caterpillar? Oak Processionary Moths are not native to the UK but were accidentally imported. If you think you have found one you can report the sighting to the Forestry Commission.   Have fun and stay safe on your dog walks Dog walks should be fun wherever you go. With a little care and attention, you’ll soon be enjoying adventures in the woods with your four-legged friend. As we mentioned earlier, it’s Walk in the Woods month and we wrote a dedicated article all about dog safety in the woods. If you’d like to take a look, you can read the blog post here.

By Zac Girdlestone

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Walk In The Woods Month: Walking Your Dog Safely In The Woods
06.05.21 May 06, 2021 Health Featured

Walk In The Woods Month: Walking Your Dog Safely In The Woods

Did you know that May is Walk in the Woods month? It's a time to get out and about and appreciate our local trees. It's also a brilliant opportunity to take our dogs somewhere new for their walks. Since lockdown began to ease, we’ve been enjoying more adventurous days out with our dogs. From walks on the beach to afternoons in the park, we’ve enjoyed taking any opportunity we can to enjoy the great outdoors. The woods are an exciting place to take our dogs for a walk. Woodland areas offer a range of different experiences for our canine friends including different smells and textures that they may not get to experience at their regular dog walking locations. If you’re planning to take your dogs on a walk in the woods, there are a few things to think about to make it a day to remember for both of you. Read on to explore our tips for walking your dog safely in the woods. Advice for Dog Walks in The Woods Stick to paths - Many woodland areas that are suitable for dog walking have designated paths and it’s important to stick to these. The woods are alive with precious species of flora and fauna and we need to do all we can to protect them. Sticking to pathways will help protect the wildlife and also ensure you don’t get lost! Be aware of wild animals - You may come across all kinds of wildlife on your adventures into the woods and it’s imperative that they are respected. You may come across ground-nesting birds (which often nest between March and July) or even livestock. If you do see wild animals, please don’t let your dog chase them or scare them even if you think your dog is just being playful. Pop your dog on a lead around wildlife and keep the walk pleasant for the local residents as well as your dog. Be careful of sticks - As we all know, dogs love to play, and the excitement of being somewhere new will only make them more playful. Sticks may seem like the ideal thing to play with, but actually come with a couple of risks to your dog. It may seem harmless enough, to throw a stick for a game of fetch, but sticks can actually cause splinters in the mouth, cuts on your dog’s body and even pose a choking hazard. We’d suggest taking one of your dog’s toys to the woods with you instead of using found objects. A dog ball, rope toy or other dog throwing toy is a brilliant addition to your travel bag for an outing to the woods.  Be aware of poisonous plants - As in any outdoor setting, you may come across plants that are poisonous to dogs. It’s probably best not to allow your dog to eat any wild plants that you come across on your walks, but you should be particularly aware of poisonous species such as Bluebells, Dog’s Mercury and Foxgloves, amongst others. Your pet may even have an allergy to a plant that is usually dog safe, so just be aware of any changes in their condition. If you think your pet has eaten a poisonous plant, perhaps they have an adverse reaction such as vomiting, you should seek medical advice from your vet immediately. Keep your dog on a short lead - It’s important that you have the correct lead for when on-lead walking is required. A good quality short lead (non-retractable) and matching walking accessories would be best to give you good control and to keep them close when you need to. This will be ideal if you come across areas with nesting birds or areas with livestock. There may be times on the walk that you feel it’s safe to let your dog off the lead, and as long as they have good recall training it should be fine to let them free for a while. If you come across other dog walkers it's best to keep your dog at heel. If you notice that their dog is on a lead, you should put your dog on a lead too. You never know at what stage of training other dogs are at, or how they react to pets that they don’t know. Be cautious and respectful at all times. Don’t forget their treats - Make sure you bring along your dog’s treats so that you can reward their good behaviour. You may need to put their training to the test at certain times on the walk and a few treats will hopefully help to instil their manners. Take drinking water with you - This is a must on any day out. Just like us humans, our dogs will need some refreshments during the day. Some locations may have a dog-friendly coffee shop with water bowls for dogs, but other more remote locations may not which means you’ll have to take your own. We always like to pack the car with a travel bowl and a flask of water so that we can feed our canine friends wherever we may be. We stock a brilliant range of travel bags that come with pet travel bowls and room for your other pet travel accessories too. Check for ticks and fleas - When you get home, make sure to check your dog for any signs of ticks and fleas. Check their whole body, feeling down to the skin. If you feel any bulges, part the fur and check for ticks. If you find a tick, remove it with tweezers pulling it away from the skin. After you’ve checked for ticks, give your dog a good comb with a fine-tooth metal comb. Rake it through your pet’s fur checking for signs of fleas on the comb. If you do find any, give your pet a good bath with a flea treatment to kill the fleas. We’d suggest treating your dog with a Flea and Tick treatment before taking them out to keep such pests at bay. There are also some brilliant Insect repelling products such the Scruffs Snood. These are great for outdoor pursuits where insects could irritate your dog. Remember to plan ahead - As with any post-lockdown day out, make sure you plan ahead. Many locations remain closed or with some restrictions still in place. Ensure you know what the rules and regulations are at the place that you're visiting, and take any provisions that you'll need to help you stick to them.   Wherever your dog walks take you, we hope you enjoy your adventures with your canine companions. Hopefully we've given you plenty of helpful advice to keep your outdoor exercise fun for everyone whilst keeping you safe too. If you need any more advice in terms of certain health conditions and risks, you can always chat to your vet who will be happy to give you advice tailored to your specific dog. 

By Zac Girdlestone

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The Best Cat Travel Accessories
25.04.21 April 25, 2021 Travel Featured

The Best Cat Travel Accessories

Travelling safely with our pets is an important consideration for all pet owners. From short trips to the vet, to longer day trips and holidays, it’s important that you and they get to the relevant destination in comfort and safety. This doesn’t just go for dogs and their owners, but cats too. Many may wonder how much travelling a cat is likely to do, but some people travel with their feline pets just as much as some dog owners travel with their canines. Many pedigree breeds that are kept indoors are taken on holiday by their owners, rather than housing them in a cattery, which can mean a long journey in the car.  This calls for a good set of travel accessories so that you can transport them in comfort and keep them safe whilst doing so. ​ Our Favourite Accessories For Travelling With Your Cats Cat Carrier - An essential item that no cat owner should be without is a good quality pet carrier that is safe for car journeys. Hopefully vet visits will be few and far between, but on the occasions that your cat does need to see the vet, you need to be able to transport them there safely. A cat carrier that is certified safe for car and train travel would be ideal. One of our favourites is the Catit Cabrio Carrier that has lots of lovely features including a shoulder strap and removable water bowls for on-the-go snacks. This would also be perfect for longer journeys too, and it has plenty of room inside even for larger cats. If you’re looking for something more traditional and only need it for local trips to the vet then the Rattan Carrier by House of Paws is a stunning option. You could take the door off when not in use and use as a cat bed too   Cat Blanket - One of the most important things to do when travelling with any pet is make them feel comfortable. Trips to the vet can be stressful for anxious pets and car journeys can also be nerve wracking if your cat isn’t used to them. Make the inside of the carrier as cosy as possible with their favourite blanket. This will also make them feel at home if they are staying overnight somewhere new. Our range of cat blankets includes the super cosy luxury velvet and sherpa blanket that comes in a range of colours. We also love the Lord Lou faux fur blanket which can roll up for travel. If you’re buying a new blanket just remember to get it a week or so in advance of the journey so that the blanket smells of home before the trip.   Compact Cat Bed - If you are going for a weekend away and you’re bringing your cat along, take a compact bed that can be packed in the car with you. We like the Round Cosy Cat Cave as it is a soft fabric bed that will be easy to pack. The cave style will also give kitty somewhere to retreat and hide when they get to their destination. A good alternative is the felt pet bed that pops up with press studs and can be stored flat. A brilliant travel item for storing in the car! Travel Bowl - If you’re preparing for a long journey then you will need to think about food and water. Your cat may not feel like eating if they’re nervous, but it’s best to be prepared just in case. The Beco Travel Bowl is a great accessory as it can fold flat and pop up when you need it. An ideal option for water on the journey, but also to use as your cat’s main bowl on nights away. Travel Water Bottle - If it is a long journey and you want to stop on the way to give them some water, then a pet travel bottle is a great way to transport it.  This one by Dexas has a second compartment for treats or food too, and it comes with a pop-up bowl as well   Travel Bag - If you’re going to take your cat on holiday, you may wish to take a pet travel bag for them. These Overland bags come with an array of handy food bowls with extra space for other feline essentials. You’ll be able to pack some of your cat’s favourite food as well as some of the other items on this list.   Cat Toys - Keeping your cat relaxed is a must and taking a couple of their toys on the journey will offer something familiar for them to snuggle. It will also keep them occupied if you’re staying overnight somewhere. Pet Wipes - Pet wipes are brilliant for all kinds of clean-ups and an essential for any pet travel or grooming bag. They can be used to clean up food spillages and accidents, as well as for cleaning your cat if they manage to soil themselves.   Cat Treats - Mmm, delicious cat treats! A tasty snack or two is always welcome and is a brilliant reward for your cat’s good behaviour when travelling.   Small Scratch Post - Another essential for any overnight stay is a scratch pad or post. The last thing you want is for your cat to scratch the soft furnishings - even pet-friendly holiday locations will frown upon a ruined sofa! Find a small scratch post that you can pop in the car easily. We have a few great options in our shop including flat scratch pads that can hang on door handles and compact posts that simply unscrew from the base for easy storage and transportation.   Compact Litter Tray - Your cat will need somewhere to toilet if they’re staying somewhere overnight so a compact litter tray will be needed. The kitten starter set could be a good option for travel as it would be fairly easy to pack without taking up too much room. If it’s too small for your adult cat though, perhaps a simple rosewood litter tray would be sufficient. It might seem like a large thing to pack, but if you pop some of your other items inside it, you can save space in your car.   Pet Remedy Calming Products - Pets can feel stressed and nervous in strange places and situations. This can be even worse for cats who aren’t used to travelling. These all-natural calming products by Pet Remedy are brilliant for keeping nervous kitties calm. We’d suggest using them a few days before you’re due to travel and then on your travels as well. There are a number of products to choose from. We like the plug-in diffusers to use at home along with the spray which can be used on bedding. You can then take the spray and some of the wipes on any journeys you may have. We’d consider the All-in-One Calming Kit as it includes one of each of Pet Remedy’s most popular products.   The main thing to consider when travelling with your feline family members is to make them feel as comfortable and calm as possible. Providing them with as many home comforts as you can, will really help them to settle on journeys and in new places. If you’re concerned about travelling with your pets, you could always have a chat with your vet to see what they suggest too.  If you have any questions about any of the products listed in this article, please do get in touch. We’re always happy to help as much as we can.

By Zac Girdlestone

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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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Our Favourite Accessories For Day Trips With Your Dog
18.04.21 April 18, 2021 Owning a Dog Featured

Our Favourite Accessories For Day Trips With Your Dog

This week in England, the lockdown restrictions have been relaxed a little more and we can now enjoy a drink or meal in an outdoor space at restaurants and cafés. This gives us even more chance to get out and about and means we can now spend longer periods of time outdoors. This is great news for our dogs too as they will be able to come with us on ever longer walks. Picnics in the park, ice cream on the beach and lunch in the gardens of dog friendly pubs will all be possible. We can’t wait to get out about and enjoy some socialisation with friends we haven’t seen in a while, whilst spending some valuable time with our dogs as well. With this in mind we thought we’d share with you some of the products we like to take out with us at this time of year. These are our favourite essentials for dog walks and outings that we couldn’t live without   Travel Feeding Sets One of the things that we’re most excited about at the moment is the thought of a coffee or lunch in an outdoor restaurant or café. With the weather becoming milder (despite the odd flurry of snow that we’ve had recently!), the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors with some refreshments is hard to turn down. And our dog’s shouldn’t miss out on the fun, which is why travel feeding accessories are high on our must-have list of products. Whether it’s a small set of travel bowls for a short trip to the beach, or a larger backpack of items with space to pack other things for a day trip, we have a host of brilliant accessories designed to make on-the-go meals a breeze. For a quick lunch in town - We’d suggest a Beco Travel Bowl teamed with a small H2O flask. If you want to add in a snack for your pup then try the Dexas Popware Snack Duo. When you stop for a coffee break or a sandwich, you’ll be able to serve your four-legged friend a drink of water or small portion of food too. For a daytrip to the park or the beach - If you’re going somewhere for the afternoon or even the day, you may need some extra provisions for your pup. The Backpacks by Mobile Dog Gear come with travel bowls for both food and water, and also have space to fit any other dog accessories you may need such as wipes, toys, a drying coat, poo bags and any other essentials.   Outdoor Toys At this time of year when the weather is pleasant, dog walks can easily be turned into playtime! There are loads of fun throwing toys that will make a day at the beach or park super fun. Here are some of our favourites: Chuckit Sport 18M Ball Launcher - Sometimes the simplest games are also the most exciting and that definitely applies to games of fetch with a dog-safe tennis ball. Give the game a little extra distance with this throwing launcher by Chuckit. You’ll be able to send the ball flying way further than usual and your dog will get tons of exercise as they retrieve it. Ideal for games of fetch on a quiet dog-friendly beach. KONG Tag-A-Long Ball - If you don’t have the space for throwing the ball long distances, a regular ball thrown by hand might be a better option. This one in particular is great for taking on walks as it can be attached to your dog’s lead leaving your hands and pockets free for other things.   Dog Poo Bags No dog owner should leave the house without poop bags and we have some practical solutions for storing them and taking them on your travels. Beco Pocket Poo Bag Holder - This is a super popular item at Lords & Labradors, combining practicality with sustainability. It’s really easy to use and clips to your dog’s lead so you don’t have to worry about remembering it when you leave the house. It’s also made of eco-friendly biodegradable materials, so it’s good for the environment too. Don’t forget to stock up on spare poo bags to put inside when it’s empty! Cocopup London Poop Bag Holder - Cocopup is brand new to our ranges at L&L and we cannot get enough of their delightful prints and practical accessories. Their poop bag holders have a handy clip so it can be attached to a lead and there’s even a zip pocket so you can pop your keys or a bit of change inside. Discover the other matching accessories here.   Dog Training Treats It’s important for us to treat our dogs for good behaviour even when we’re out on a walk. It could be a reward for good manners crossing the road or it might be for trying hard in a game at the park. Make sure you always have a treat or two to hand so you can show your dog your appreciation.   Collars, Leads and Harnesses Of course you can’t leave the house without a walking set. A harness that fits well is our walking accessory of choice as it gives more comfort and support than using just a collar. If the weather looks like it might take a turn for the worst you may want to consider a dog coat as well. Take a look at our recent article, The Best Dog Coats for Spring to see which styles we recommend for this time of year.

By Zac Girdlestone

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Brand Spotlight: Cocopup London - Adorable Walking Sets for Stylish Pups
15.04.21 April 15, 2021 Product Spotlight Featured

Brand Spotlight: Cocopup London - Adorable Walking Sets for Stylish Pups

You may have noticed that we’ve added some fabulous new brands to our collections. We’re continually working to find the latest pet brands around so that we can offer you the best choice possible. In this week’s article we shine the spotlight on Cocopup London; a brand who have made it their mission to create fun and stylish walking accessories for your dogs. Here we talk a little bit about the brand and also highlight some of our favourite pieces from the collection. About Cocopup London The idea for Cocopup was conceived by best friends Charlie and Jess. The friends are the brains behind fashion brand Coconut Lane and decided to branch out into canine accessories. Having welcomed a dog, Ralph the Cavapoo, into their lives during lockdown 2020, creating fashionable accessories for their new pup was the most natural evolution, and Cocopup was born! Cocopup offer adorable accessories for fashion conscious pups in the cutest patterns and colours you can imagine. And what’s more, they all match the main Coconut Lane collection, so your dog can match your own style - what could be cuter than that?! Cocopup London Dog Collars, Leads and Matching Accessories The Cocopup London range is made up of capsule ranges of dog products each featuring a striking print. Each item is made to be practical and stylish, working well in your pup’s daily routine whilst looking fab. You will find dog collars, leads and harnesses as well as matching bandanas, bow ties and poop bags. Your canine pals really will be the best dressed on their daily dog walks. Here are the key features of each item: Cocopup Dog collar - Made from strong webbing and lined in soft neoprene for great comfort. They’re fully adjustable for a good fit. Cocopup Dog Lead - Made from the same durable materials as the collar with padded neoprene lined handle for comfort. The black swivel clips make them easy to attach and remove from your dog’s harness or collar. Cocopup Dog Harness - Lightweight, soft and comfortable, the harnesses are made from neoprene which is quick drying. They have a fully adjustable chest strap and they’re reversible so have 2 looks in 1! Cocopup Bow Tie - Make your pup's collar even more adorable with an added bow tie. Simply loop on to the collar with a Velcro fastening - the perfect addition for those special occasions. Cocopup Bandana - Your dog will look fab in these bandanas. Lightweight and breathable, they’re super comfortable for your dog to wear. Cocopup Poop Bag Holder - A super cute take on an everyday essential. They come will a free roll of poo bags and feature a zip pocket to store your keys. Just clip it to your dog's lead any you'll never forget your poo bags again!   The Cocopup Prints The thing that we love most about the Cocopup range is the use of colour and print that makes these dog walking accessories stand out from the crowd. The design team have taken the essence of the Coconut Lane brand and applied it all to the Cocopup range. The result is a range of practical accessories for dogs that look fabulous too. Here are the prints to choose from: Cocopup Cow Print - This animal print is realised in a monochromatic colour scheme offering a striking modern look. Your little fur babies will grab all of the attention on their walks wearing this daring design! Cocopup London Camo Print - If you want to make a bolder statement, then look no further than the camo print. A stylish update on a classic pattern, it is finished in a contemporary colour palette of green and pink. Cocopup Khaki Leopard Print - Take a walk on the wild side with Cocopup’s take on the leopard trend. A beautiful green fabric with black and orange markings, your dog will look super cute in this. Cocopup Dalmatian Print - A black and white spot print with contrast pastel hues; either blush or mint. A stunning print that is perfect for those who like they’re prints on the subtle side of fashionable! There’s a style and colour palette in the range to suit every taste; whichever print you choose your pup is sure to look great!   Match your own style to your dogs Did we mention that we have tops for puppy parents that match their pup's accessories? Now you can share your proud 'Dog Mum status' with one of our Cocopup London sweatshirts! All available in unisex sizing up to an XL, they would make a brilliant gift for any dog loving pet parent.

By Zac Girdlestone

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Be A Doggy-Do-Little
08.04.21 April 08, 2021 Owning a Dog Featured

Be A Doggy-Do-Little

We all know how important sleep is for our overall health and wellbeing - and it’s no different for your dog either. The truth is, your pup needs their fair share of slumber to keep their tails wagging, but exactly how much shuteye do they need, and what can you do to ensure they’re getting enough of it? Our recent “Be a Doggy-Do-Little” campaign looks into the ways that we can help our precious pooches snooze soundly, but it’s vital that you appreciate what their sleep needs are. Keep reading to find out more about a typical dog’s sleep schedule, as well as some all-important bedtime tips and tricks.   Understanding your dog’s sleep needs First and foremost, it’s important to understand your dog’s sleep needs, as well as recognising the fact that they need this rest in order to stay feeling happy and healthy. Generally speaking, adult dogs need approximately 12 to 15 hours of shuteye per day, with this being split up into daytime naps followed by a longer stretch of sleep at night. Puppies, although bursting with energy, may require as much as 18 hours of sleep per day, and while they may struggle to sleep through the entire night at first, it’s nothing a little training can’t fix. It’s actually very normal for your pooch to spend about 50% of their day snoozing and 30% “resting”, meaning they are “active” for 20% of the day - but why does your dog sleep so much? For the most part, your pup will choose to take a nap when there simply isn’t anything better to do, and it could even be that your four-legged friend just really loves to lounge. It’s also important to note that larger breeds need to work harder in order to move around, meaning that they require time to rest, while smaller, younger and more agile pups tend to race about, burning up energy before crashing into a deep sleep until their bodies have recovered. When your dog needs to sleep, they will sleep, and it’s crucial that as their owner,  you allow them to get the much-needed slumber they deserve.   How to help your pup snooze soundly As part of our “Be a Doggy-Do-Little” campaign, we’ve explored a plethora of ways in which you can help your pup snooze more soundly. Make sure you check out the full campaign for our entire range of useful and practical tips - but if you’re keen for a sneak peak in the meantime, keep reading...   Comfort comes first Just like us, your pup needs somewhere comfortable to sleep in order to get the rest they need. If your pooch snoozes in a traditional style dog bed, make sure it’s big enough for their breed and size, as well as super cosy and cushioned. If your pet sleeps in a crate, you can make the inside snug with a bumper and a soft padded bed, and even include a drop-down cover on the outside for extra privacy. Ideally, their sleep space should be quiet, draught-free and warm, giving them the privacy they need to unwind and recharge.   Routine is everything Creating a simple but effective bedtime routine for your furry friend can work wonders in helping them get ready for a night of sleep. This routine can include timing their evening meal just right so that they are able to snooze on a full tummy, or adjusting this mealtime for puppies who may need longer to digest their dinner ahead of bedtime. It’s also a good idea to keep the vibe in your home calm and quiet in the hours before lights-out so that your pooch can get ready to drift off.   Good habits go a long way When it comes to your pup’s sleep schedule, adopting good bedtime habits can go a long way. For example, it’s worth fitting in a quick bathroom break before your pooch settles down for the night so they can relieve themselves, reducing the chances of them waking in the night. It’s also a good idea to avoid slipping into the habit of letting your furry friend share your bed. While it might be tempting to snuggle up, allowing your pup to sleep next to you can have a negative effect on the quality of sleep for you both, so it’s best that you stick to your separate sleeping quarters.   Better sleep, better health Like us, dogs need adequate sleep in order to stay feeling happy and healthy. Taking a snooze allows your pup to rest and recharge so they can wake up ready to take on the day ahead. For puppies, getting enough slumber is crucial for development and growth, while older dogs need their sleep to let their bodies recover from the day’s activities If your pooch is struggling to get the sleep they need, there are a number of small changes you can make to their diet that could help them drift off. For instance, it could be that your pup’s current diet is too energy-rich, meaning that they are not able to switch off properly. It’s thought that certain additives, proteins and other nutritional components have a lot to answer for when it comes to sleep and overall behaviour. With this in mind, it’s a good idea to do your research to figure out what type of food your canine pal should be eating based on their breed and age to help them sleep soundly. You could even offer your pup specially designed bedtime biscuit treats containing ingredients that can aid a blissful bedtime, such as honey, yoghurt and camomile. You might also want to consider offering your pup a natural sleep supplement, such as melatonin. However, it’s best to speak to your vet first to ensure you’re using the most safe and effective type of supplement for your four-legged friend. How do you make sure your pooch sleeps well every night? Share your tips and tricks using the hashtag #SleepForDogs. Your browser does not support the video tag.  

By Zac Girdlestone

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Indoors vs Outdoors - What Is Best For Your Cat?
08.04.21 April 08, 2021 Health Featured

Indoors vs Outdoors - What Is Best For Your Cat?

When most of us think of cats we probably envisage playful felines climbing trees or stalking the local pigeons. There’s no doubt that cats love the outdoors. The outside is like a giant playground for cats who love to climb, chase and play. But many of us choose to keep our cats indoors and, with the right kind of care, that can be okay too. There are pros and cons to both options and there are many things to consider when deciding whether to let your cat outside or keep them as house cats. Here we discuss some of the main things to think about when choosing whether to allow your own feline to roam outside or keep them indoors.   Should I Let My Cat Outside? The likelihood is that your cat is going to really enjoy the outdoors. There is a plethora of things for them to discover including trees to climb and wildlife to experience. Cats naturally like to roam and allowing them outdoors will give them a wider space to do just that. Some cats can become anxious if kept indoors, especially if they aren’t given enough things to do, or enough socialisation. Allowing them outdoors can relieve them of stress which can in turn stop them from doing negative things indoors such as scratching furniture. Bored cats can develop a number of other bad habits such as fouling outside of the litter box and marking their territory by spraying. These things are less likely to occur if your cat is allowed to let off steam and enjoy an open space. What are the main benefits of letting your cat outside? More space for their territory - cats are territorial by nature and allowing them outside will give them a bigger space to make their own. They can express natural behaviour - cats like to scratch and some like to spray to mark their territory. Whilst this is natural, as owners we often don’t want them doing these things in the house. Letting them outside allows them to scratch in a ‘suitable’ place without damaging the furnishings. Interesting environment - the great outdoors is full of all kinds of interesting things that will keep your cat occupied. The constantly changing environment that’s full of smells, textures and tastes will stimulate your cat in a way that won’t happen indoors. This brain stimulation is good for their brain development and will stop them getting bored. Exercise - The extra space provided outside will allow your cat to exercise more. They’re likely to climb, run and chase more outside keeping them physically fit. Rodent Control - cats have an inbuilt instinct to hunt and chase. It isn’t just about food either as even cats with plenty of food will still stalk their prey. Allowing your cats outdoors can help keep unwanted rodents, such as mice, to a minimum.   What are the risks of letting your cat outside? Injuries - this can depend greatly on where you live, but the risk of injury is greatly increased when your cat goes outside. Many cats are injured due to road traffic. This can be due to busy roads in town, but also country roads where your cat may be caught off-guard. Cats can also become injured by other animals outside. Fighting can be reduced by neutering your cat but can still occur when new cats come into their territory. Illness - Allowing your cat outside can put them at an increased risk of catching illnesses and diseases. If you do allow your cat outside always ensure they are fully vaccinated. Parasites - Any cat, whether indoor or outdoor, can catch parasites such as fleas or ticks, but the risk is greatly increased if they venture outdoors. Make sure you treat your cat to help prevent and treat parasites. Speak to your vet to see what they think is the best way to do this. Loss - Cats that go outside can go missing for a number of different reasons. It could be due to injury, getting trapped in a strange building or even theft. Sometimes cats will be taken in by someone mistaking them for a stray. Before letting your cat outside ensure that they are microchipped to help increase the chance of their return if they do go missing. Poisons - There are a number of things that can poison your cat including garden chemicals, anti-freeze and slug pellets. Make sure all of your garden chemicals are stored well out of reach of cats and make sure any spillages are always cleaned up thoroughly.  If you think your cat may have ingested poison, seek veterinary care immediately.   Ways to help keep your outdoor cat safe Collar - let them wear a collar, preferably with some kind of reflective panel for visibility and an ID tag in case they get lost. Make sure it has a safety breakaway buckle in case it gets caught whilst climbing. Microchip - all pets should really microchipped in case of loss. A collar can come off, whereas a microchip is always there They’re much more likely to be returned home if they get lost. Get them vaccinated - to ward off any unwanted diseases. Get them treated for fleas - regularly treat them for fleas and other parasites. Get them neutered - you need to reduce the risk of unwanted pregnancies as soon as possible. Enclose your garden - if you Iive in a busy town you could consider making your garden as enclosed as possible to deter them from straying any further than the boundary.   Should I keep my cat indoors? Ideally all cats would be given at least a bit of time to experience the outdoors. However, some cats adapt very well to living an indoor lifestyle, especially if they do so from a young age. Some cats will need to live indoors due to certain medical conditions and some actually prefer living indoors. There are many pedigree breeds, such as Ragdolls, that will benefit from being kept indoors. The key is to give your indoor cat a healthy environment to live in and replicate a cat’s outdoor habit indoors. As long as your cat is given plenty of socialisation, areas to climb and scratch as well things to play with, they will probably lead healthy fulfilled indoor lives.   What are the main benefits of keeping your cat indoors? Protected from loss - indoor cats are much less likely to get lost or stolen. Be aware of open windows around the house so they don’t escape! Less risk of catching fleas or other parasites - there is still a slight risk they could parasites, but the risk is greatly reduced if they don’t go outdoors. Less risk of disease - The reduced contact with other animals means they will be less likely to catch certain diseases and infections. Less likely to hunt - Unless you have mice in your house, your cat probably won’t hunt. This means you won’t find ‘presents’ on your doorstep in the mornings!   What are the risks of keeping your cat indoors? Risk of boredom - Indoor cats are more likely to grow bored if not given enough things to keep them occupied, which can result in negative behaviours such as spraying, aggression and scratching furniture. It’s important to give your cats plenty to do in the house with a good scratching tree and plenty of toys to keep them stimulated. Can become more dependent on routine - A static environment can lead your cat to fear change. They can become sensitive to even slight changes in their routine which can lead to stress. Lack of hiding places - if your cat can’t get outside, it may not give them many places to hide from visitors or other pets. Even sociable cats like their own space sometimes. If you do choose to keep your cat indoors make sure they have places that they can retreat to when they want some alone time. Houseplants - Just as there are some hazardous plants outdoors there are also some that we keep as houseplants. Be aware of these and keep them out of reach of your cats.   Enhancing your house for an indoor cat All cats need some indoor stimulation, but house cats need even more than outdoor cats. Here are some top tips for setting up the home for indoor cats: Toys - Make sure they have lots of things to play with. A variety of different types of toy will keep their bodies active and their brains working. A place to scratch - All cats need to scratch to keep their claws healthy. A scratch post or two around the home will encourage them not to scratch your furniture. Places to climb - This could as part of the scratching post if you choose something with platforms and multiple posts for them to explore. Cats like to be high up and giving them a tall scratch post to do this is ideal. A place to hide - Many cats will naturally flee from strangers and giving them, some hiding places is the perfect way to do this. A quiet place for their litter tray - cats are quite private creatures and will appreciate a bit of privacy when going to the loo. Keep their litter tray in a secluded spot so that they are encouraged to use it. You could consider a covered tray too which will give them even more privacy than an open one.  Places to roam - indoor cats should have access to a number of rooms that they're allowed to explore. Also think about leaving room on a windowsill for them to sit as they'll enjoy looking out of the window and watching wildlife.   Should your cat be an indoor or an outdoor cat? This really does come down to the individual pet owner, the cat that they own and the kind of lifestyle that they live. Both indoor and outdoor cats can live happy, healthy lives with the correct care, and there are pros and cons to both lifestyles. Whichever you choose for your cat, make sure you have read through our lists of benefits and risks and choose the right lifestyle for you and your cat. If you’re rehoming a farm cat who has lived outside their whole life, then you’ll probably need to consider continuing with an outdoor life for them. On the other hand, if you are getting a pedigree breed who tend to live more sedate lifestyles and have grown up indoors, then you may wish to continue with that. Heed all the advice and make the correct choice for you. If you want further advice, you can always talk to your vet.

By Zac Girdlestone

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How To Stop Your Dog Destroying Their Bed
06.04.21 April 06, 2021 Health Featured

How To Stop Your Dog Destroying Their Bed

For any dog, their bed is a haven for relaxation and alone time. It’s also something they can become accustomed to and identify as theirs and theirs alone. But if your dog has started to attack their bed, it can mean that they don’t have anywhere to relax and may not feel properly comfortable in your home. Many different reasons can lead your dog to destroy its bed, and due to this, there can also be different methods of stopping them from displaying this behaviour. In this blog, we look at the ways in which your dog may be doing this and offer tips on how to stop them from totally destroying their own dog bed.   Why Do Dogs Destroy Their Beds? Not only could there be a variety of reasons why your dog is destroying their own bed, but they may also be doing it in a number of different ways. While some dogs erratically dig in or scratch their bed, others pee on or chew them. Below, we’ve looked at some of these behaviours and explain why it could be that your dog is acting in this way.   Why Do Dogs Scratch Their Beds? Scratching beds is one of the most common traits a dog can have, and it could mean any number of things. For instance, it could be something they do alongside urinating on their bed as a way of marking their territory, or a habit they picked up from their parents or siblings during the puppy stage. Alternatively, it could simply be an action they do naturally without thinking. Another reason could be that they’re nesting. If a female dog isn’t spayed and comes into heat, they will begin to experience maternal instincts. A common behaviour trait of this in female dogs is to prepare their bed for puppies, even if they’re not pregnant. As a dog owner, it can be upsetting to see your pooch preparing their bed for puppies, especially if you intend on having them neutered. However, while this trait may continue several months after being spayed - or it could simply be something they always do - it’s likely to fade with time.   Why Do Dogs Dig In Their Beds? Although similar to scratching, when a dog digs in their bed, it’s more likely to cause damage as, instead of simply changing the shape of their bed, they could end up breaking through the material. Despite the similarity with scratching, digging is often a sign that your dog is trying to become more comfortable in their bed. Just like when cats knead their bed before sleep, dogs will dig as a pre-sleep ritual or to make more of an indentation in the bed to improve their comfort. It is something they may also do outside, but with the benefit that digging in mud will cause the surface below them to change, whereas digging in the bed will either have no effect at all or potentially ruin their sleeping aid.   Why Do Dogs Pee On Their Beds? When your dog pees on their bed, it can be concerning as it may make you think that they’re unwell or haven’t properly picked up the toilet training you’ve given them. Finding pee on your dog’s bed could be a sign that they’ve picked up a bug or simply need more toilet training, but it could also be an indication of many things. Potential reasons why your dog is peeing on their bed include: A side effect of a urine infection Feelings of anxiousness, excitement or nervousness Incomplete house training Naughty behaviour To mark their territory Peeing on beds is also a common trait of female dogs, and while it can improve with age, they may continue to struggle with holding water for long periods of time if they aren’t spayed. Using a waterproof dog bed would prevent the level of damage caused by your dog peeing the bed, but as it won’t stop them from doing it, you need to consider more long-term solutions.   Why Do Dogs Chew Up Their Beds? It’s less likely that you will find your dog chewing their bed, but if your dog has started to show this trait, it could lead to them needing a new bed entirely. In some instances, a dog chewing their bed could be a result of becoming too excitable during their playtime. However, if they’re doing it in an aggressive manner or appear to be actively trying to ruin their bed, it could be caused by something more serious. The reason behind why a dog may resort to chewing their own bed is often either anxiety or boredom. If they’re feeling stressed, anxious or panicked, chewing their bed could be a way of showing you how they’re feeling. Some specific dog breeds are especially susceptible to these feelings, with the cause often being related to separation anxiety. As for boredom, dogs are often known for becoming destructive if they’re full of energy and don’t have any way of releasing it. Chewing their bed could be a result of not having enough walks and being overly stimulated, not having enough dog toys to play with, lacking in proper training or being left alone too long and not being given the attention they need.   How To Stop Dogs From Destroying Their Beds Your dog may be destroying their bed in several different ways and as a result of multiple possible factors. However, there are ways of preventing them from causing too much damage to their bed or potentially stopping them from having the urge to destroy their bed entirely. Firstly, you should work out if there are any reasons why your dog is damaging their bed and use these reasons to find effective solutions to stop them. For example, if they’re suffering from feelings of stress, anxiety or panic, or they’re struggling to cope when left alone, consider ways to eliminate these feelings. If they’re wetting the bed due to not being properly trained, give them the training they need to understand that peeing should only be done on puppy pads or in the garden. Likewise, scratching their bed may be a sign that they can’t get comfortable and either need extra blankets or a different type of bed that better suits their size, breed and behaviour. If you’re not entirely sure why your dog is destroying their bed, you may need to try an approach that covers all likely causes. Below, we’ve outlined steps you can try How To Stop A Dog From Chewing His Bed Allow your dog to use their bed, but take it away when you’re not around to supervise. If they’re in a room that isn’t suitable for sleeping on the floor, provide them with a blanket as an alternative option. Offer them a selection of chew toys. Dogs are prone to chewing and do it as a way of relaxing or releasing excess energy. By giving them a few different options, they should be able to find one that is suitable and preferable to them. Supervise your dog when they’re in their bed and if they begin to chew, dig, scratch or look like they’re getting ready to pee on the bed, say ‘no’ firmly to indicate that it’s bad behaviour. If they don’t take any notice of this, instead use a squeaky toy to distract them. As soon as you see your dog behaving in their bed - even if that means they’re sitting comfortably and not acting out - praise them, stroke them and give them a treat as a reward. Work out how much exercise the breed of your dog should be getting and take them for the amount of walks they need. During their walk, you could use an extendable lead to give them freedom and allow them to play during their walk, and you could even use their walk as an opportunity to teach them obedience training. When you feel like your dog is becoming less inclined to destroy their own bed, start giving them more time with it. You could leave them alone with it for an hour and increase the time by an hour each day until they’re eventually allowed to be left with it permanently.   What Can I Spray On Dog Bed To Stop Chewing? The Simple Solution Chew Stopper spray is a great choice to spray on your dog's bed to help stop them chewing. Simply spray your dog's bed with the spray, your dog will recognise the marked area as unpleasant and it will discourage them from chewing it.    Indestructible Dog Beds Although there is no such thing as a completely indestructible dog bed, there are, however, some more chew and scratch resistant options. Here at L&L we developed our Rhino Tough Collection using our toughest fabric with more destructive dogs in mind. The stylish faux leather is water resistant and bleach cleanable making it the perfect choice for dogs who have a habit of urinating on their bed. The Rhino Tough collection is made with no zips or fastenings to discourage chewing, it also comes in 6 stylish colour options. It's also scratch resistant so if your dog likes dig in their bed at night or scratch their bed this might be the choice for you. It's available in our three most popular bed shapes, cushion, high wall and box bed, so however your dog likes to sleep there will be a bed for them. The cushion is a great choice as a indestructible dog bed for crates, if you prefer your dog to sleep in a crate.     Another option if your dog likes to chew soft beds, is a plastic bed which is filled with blankets. Rosewood's Eco bed is constructed with 100% recycled plastic, making it an extremely resilient and robust choice for dogs who like to chew. The ventilated base offers increased airflow, perfect for keeping pets cool in the summertime. Non-slip rubber feet prevent the bed from shifting on hard surfaces, while the plastic is easy to wipe down to clean for dog's who tend to urinate on their beds. 

By Zac Girdlestone

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The Best Cat Treats & Accessories
28.03.21 March 28, 2021 Product Spotlight Featured

The Best Cat Treats & Accessories

We all love to show our pets a little appreciation; whether it’s for good behaviour or just because we love them! There are a multitude of pet treats out there and at Lords & Labradors we try to offer the tastiest treats that we can find. Our Cat Emporium has a delicious selection of cat treats that your felines will love. From creamy treats that can be fed from the tube to kibble sized crunchy treats that can be used in toys at playtime, there is something here to suit all of your needs. Here we take you through our range so you can pick the best cat treats for your kitty as well as highlight some great accessories for storing them.   Our Favourite Cat Treats Dreamies Cat Treats - I think we all know a cat who loves their Dreamies treats! They come in a selection of different flavours so there’s something that every cat will like, and they have a distinctive texture. The outside is crunchy, and the inside is creamy, offering a unique feeding experience. They’re low in calories and full of vitamins and minerals. The biscuit like kibble is easy to store too and they can easily be fed sparingly throughout the day. Just make sure to read the pack for portion suggestions. Suitable for adult cats and kittens from 8 weeks old. Pet Munchies Gourmet Cat Treats - Beef - If you’re looking for something really healthy for your cat then the Gourmet treats by Pet Munchies are ideal. This one is made of 100% beef liver, but there are also Fish Fillet and Chicken Liver flavours available too. Each treat is full of vitamins and minerals including Omega 3 & 6 which help to maintain a healthy heart, skin and coat. There’s added calcium too, which will promote strong teeth and bones. These are treats for the adult cats of the house and not suitable for kittens under 4 months old. Sheba Cramy Snack Treats - These creamy treats by Sheba offer something different in terms of texture. They come in a tube and can be fed straight from the packet or squeezed into your cat’s favourite saucer. They’ll love the smoothness and sublime flavours of which there are three to choose from. The soft silky puree is great for helping your cat to take medicine too. Webbox Cat Treats - Beef & Rabbit - These treat sticks are a meaty chewable treat that can be broken up and fed in smaller pieces. The meaty texture is more like your cat’s natural food in comparison to some of the more biscuit-like or creamy treats. They come in a variety of delicious flavours, are full of 95% meat and are kitten friendly. The Innocent Cat Treat Slices - Chicken & Duck - These complimentary pet treats for adult cats are made of premium ingredients including fresh British meat. Grain free, hypoallergenic and suitable for raw Diets, these treats are packed with tasty goodness. Available in two flavours, they really do offer a little taste of luxury! ​Natural Eats Salmon Fillet Strips - These are a new product from Rosewood and are made of 100% natural fish. They are gluten free, low in fat and there’s no added salt, so you can be sure you’re giving your cat only the best. These adult cat treats are a brilliant healthy option as a snack in-between meals and they’re available in a duck flavour too. Beaphar Urinary Tract Treats - These aren’t just any kind of cat treats but are specifically designed for cats with urinary tract problems. Urinary tract disorders are fairly common in cats and can vary in severity. These treats are designed to help prevent some of these problems, such as infections, bladder stones and cystitis, with added cranberry, vitamin E and Omega 3. A tasty treat with added health benefits for any adult cat who suffers from such disorders. Whiskas Cat Milk Plus - Does your cat love milk? Many of us have found our cats licking from the milk jug if we’ve left it out, but it really isn’t healthy for our feline friends to drink dairy products. They may love the creamy taste of cow’s milk, but it can cause upset stomachs due to lactose intolerance. Now you can treat your cats to some feline-safe milk in the form of this cat milk by Whiskas. It has the same great taste as normal milk, with the same calcium benefits, but without the problematic dairy. If your cats haven’t tried it yet we think they’re going to love it!   Pet Treat Tins & Storage Sophie Allport Perfect! Cat Treat Tin - Keep your cat treats fresh in style with this large treat tin by Sophie Allport. A stylish cream-toned storage tin, it is decorated with some of Sophie’s adorable cat illustrations running around the bottom edge. There’s even a handy scoop on the side. This is a large tin with a 9 litre capacity, so could be used for cat food too. There’ll be no need to have ugly food or treat bags lying around the kitchen or utility anymore; you can proudly display this on your shelf instead! Designed by Lotte Ceramic Cat Treat Tin - If you’re looking for a smaller treat storage jar then this beautiful design from Designed by Lotte is a great option. The cream ceramic design is timeless and will look lovely in any home. It features a cork stopper which will make the interior air-tight and keep all of your cat’s tasty treats as fresh as possible.   Interactive Treat Toys for cats Puzzle toys are brilliant for your cat’s brain development; helping to keep them active and stimulated. Adding a tasty treat into the mix will give them something to work for and offer them a reward for their efforts. We have a couple of brilliant interactive toys that you can add treats to for hours of playtime fun. Catit Great Ball - cats love to chase and hunt and this Catit treat ball will allow them to do just that. You can pop a couple of  cat treats inside and then watch as your cat bats the ball and try to work the treats through the mini maze inside. The rattle of the treats inside as well as the smell will keep them working until they have released them and can enjoy their snack. Catit Senses Food Tree - This is a slightly larger puzzle game for cats and kittens of all ages. Your cat will need to work out how to get the treats through the maze of holes and tunnels inside the structure until they are released into the feeding tray at the bottom. This could even be used with your cat’s dry food as a slow feeder; ideal for greedy pets who tend to eat too quickly! We hope we have given you some great options in terms of treats and accessories for your cats and kittens. If you need any more information about any of the products mentioned, please get in touch. We’ll do our best to help!

By Zac Girdlestone

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    Orders over £75 qualify for free standard UK delivery. Orders under £75 will be calculated at the checkout.

  • Shopping Made Easy

    Gain exclusive access to sales and shop all your pets favourites on the go by downloading our app.

  • Designed in the UK

    Our own brand products are lovingly designed in our specialist UK workshop to our exacting standards.

  • We're Here For You

    Contact our Pet Experts on Chat or by email at sales@lordsandlabradors.co.uk