Brandpoint - Free Online Content http://www.brandpointcontent.com Petsen-us 5 3 ways to be a more proactive cat parent https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42800/ 242531042800 Wed, 13 Mar 2024 15:23:56 GMT (BPT) - As a pet parent, you may often find yourself thinking about ways to enjoy spending quality time with your pets, while also ensuring that they're enjoying their home even when you can't be with them. Whether your household is a quiet sanctuary or a bustling hive of constant activity — or a little bit of both — it's good to take steps to ensure that your feline family members are safe and comfortable.

Here are some tips to help you be proactive when it comes to caring for your cats and their health.

1. Understand litterbox habits

Your cat's litter box habits can provide important insight into their overall wellness. However, inspecting a litter box is not a cheery chore. Fortunately, this is the golden age of pet tech, and keeping an eye on your cat's litter box habits is now as simple as opening an app.

Solutions like the Petivity™ Smart Litter Box Monitor System help pet parents better understand their cat's health by monitoring their litter box habits. Developed by a team of Purina behaviorists, veterinarians and data scientists, the system’s artificial intelligence is able to learn each cat's unique litter box patterns and identify subtle changes that can potentially have big implications. Even small fluctuations in weight, frequency in litter box visits and the types of elimination can be early signs of a health concern that requires a veterinary diagnosis.

Like with all good smart tech, setup is simple. Monitors are placed under a litter box to track each cat's data and habits. Then, if anything requires the owner's attention, an alert is sent automatically to their phone. It's a slick process and an easy way to better understand and monitor your cat’s litter box habits all year round.

2. Be aware of common cat toxins

Cats are curious creatures, and this unfortunately means that they can sometimes get into things that aren't good for them. It's a good idea to read up on common household items such as plants that could be poisonous to cats if ingested.

Some potential toxic temptations, like chocolate, are already well known. But there are also a variety of plants and flowers you should be aware of. For example, lilies, amaryllis and azaleas are popular flowers that are toxic to cats who can be tempted to chew on them. When possible, keep food and plants, plus medications or vitamins, up high or away where cats can't reach them to avoid ingesting anything that may potentially harm them.

While the Petivity™ Smart Litter Box Monitor System can help provide meaningful insights about their well-being, you should always contact your veterinarian if you believe your cat may have eaten anything that could be toxic to them.

3. Keep an eye on your cat's behavior

Another healthy step pet parents can take is to monitor stress. Whenever you're hosting friends and family, consider creating a quiet room where cats can retreat away from guests. This gives them a safe space to use as needed so they can rest, relax and recharge.

Keep in mind that stress alone can potentially cause digestive issues for cats and can lead to changes in litter box habits and elimination patterns, both of which the Petivity™ Smart Litter Box Monitor System can help detect. If the duration and frequency of litter box visits change, it's a solid sign that kitty could use some calm. In addition to quiet spaces, some love from their favorite human — you — is often welcome when cats feel anxious.

Share the gift of knowledge

Is there a cat lover in your life who could benefit from the opportunity to be proactive about their health? If so, you can let them know how smart tech like the Petivity™ Smart Litter Box Monitor System can monitor their cat's litter box habits.

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How to tackle spring cleaning, even when you have pets https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42805/ 242581042805 Mon, 26 Feb 2024 08:33:00 GMT (BPT) - The idea of giving your home a thorough cleaning each spring is very appealing, but can also be overwhelming. It may even seem impossible, given today's busy lifestyles, active children — and especially pets. You may love your pets, but the fur and stains they leave behind make it even more challenging to keep your home as clean as you'd like.

To get you started, the experts at Libman Company, manufacturer of household cleaning products made in the U.S.A. since 1896, offer these helpful spring cleaning tips that can even conquer the messes your beloved pets may create.

1. Plan first

To avoid feeling overwhelmed, develop a plan that takes into account the time, energy and tools you need to get the job done.

Consider setting aside a weekend or two, so you'll have plenty of time. Divide your home into zones, addressing the most frequently used areas of your home first, like the entryway, kitchen or bathrooms. Make sure to enlist help from your family!

Pro tip: For multi-story homes, have a set of cleaning supplies/equipment on each floor, saving you from lugging mops and brooms up and down stairs.

2. Use the best tools

Trying to clean with old, worn-out brooms or mops adds time and frustration to your task. Instead, make cleaning easier with tools expertly made for the job.

For example, Libman's PetPlus Angle Broom with Dustpan is specially designed to tackle pet hair, dander, litter box dust and tracked-in dirt. The all-surface broom fibers remove over 99% of dust, dirt and hair in one sweep, with over 137,000 6-inch-long split-tip fibers that attract and hold pet hair. Together with the 12.5-inch wide dustpan with 1.5-inch built-in "teeth" to help remove hair, dirt and debris from broom fibers, this is the perfect combo to help you clean up after pets.

After sweeping, clean floors thoroughly with Libman's Freedom Dual-Sided Microfiber Spray Mop. The dual-sided microfiber pad offers double the cleaning power, saving time and money. The removable and reusable microfiber pad is machine washable up to 50 times — reducing needless waste. The TripleGrip Microfiber absorbs and deep cleans, removing 99% of bacteria with only water. The mop's 360-degree swivel neck lets you reach into the toughest and tightest corners, and you can use it on wood, laminate, tile, vinyl, stone and linoleum floors, choosing your own cleaning solution for the refillable tank. When done cleaning, simply remove the mop head and toss in the laundry.

For carpeted floors and upholstered furniture, use a vacuum cleaner designed for pet hair. Make sure to frequently empty the canister or change the bag, as fur quickly clogs up any vacuum, making it less effective.

3. Do a quick de-clutter

It's easier to address chores like mopping and dusting after clearing away miscellaneous items. Walk through target areas with trash/recycling bags first, removing items that need to be discarded. Then use a box or basket to collect things that belong in other rooms. Kids can help with this task, looking for items that belong in their rooms. Before you know it, your surfaces will be clearer and ready for deep cleaning.

4. Start high

Start cleaning at the top — otherwise you could dislodge dust, pet hair and cobwebs to dirty your newly cleaned floors. For each room, tackle ceiling fans or light fixtures before walls or windows. Then clean horizontal surfaces like tables and shelves, saving floors for last.

Once you get to the floors, you'll be ready to put your new Libman broom and mop to work to easily remove pet hair and other debris.

5. Set yourself up for success

To preserve your newly cleaned rooms and floors, consider adding high-quality mats for inside and outside entries, easy-to-access waste bins or recycling containers and/or a basket system for items that need relocating. Planning ahead will make next season's cleaning that much easier!

Pro tip: Designate an area for regular pet brushing (or visit a groomer), especially during shedding seasons. This can reduce the fur ending up all over your house, and will keep your pets looking and feeling great.

With a solid plan and effective tools, spring cleaning can be a pleasure, and your whole family — including the four-legged members — will enjoy the results even more.

Visit Libman.com for more helpful products for cleaning your home.

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From Teeth to Paws: Five Ways Pets’ Dental Health Impacts Total Health https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42541/ 241391042541 Thu, 01 Feb 2024 07:01:00 GMT (BPT) - Pet Dental Health Month (February) marks the perfect time to prioritize your pet’s wellbeing and kick-start a dental care routine. A staggering 80% of dogs, particularly small breeds and seniors, face the risk of dental disease, with 70% of cats experiencing dental issues in their lifetime.

Supporting your pet's dental health starts with annual veterinarian visits and consistent daily at-home dental care. When done together, pet parents contribute not only to their pet’s dental health but also to their overall wellbeing, because there are many ways the two are tied together that some pet parents may not even consider.

The following are five additional health benefits your pet may experience when you prioritize their dental health:

1. Optimal nutrition and digestion

Proper digestion starts in the mouth, and healthy teeth allow pets to chew their food effectively, breaking it down into smaller, easily digestible pieces. This not only promotes improved digestion but also enhances optimal nutrient absorption. A balanced, nutrient-rich diet contributes to a pet's overall health and immune system, promoting an active, joyful life while reducing susceptibility to illness.

2. Emotional wellbeing

Supporting your dog's dental health with a dental chew offers multiple benefits: It helps clean teeth, exercises jaw muscles and provides mental stimulation. Wellness® WHIMZEES® Natural* Dental Treats for dogs acts like a chew, which helps to release endorphins ("feel-good hormones") promoting pleasure and relaxation to help reduce pain and stress.

For cats, boost chewing with Wellness® WHIMZEES® Natural Dental Treats to help address the key areas vets check most: plaque, gums, tartar and breath. These daily cat treats have a crunchy, porous texture that mimics a toothbrush with an added benefit of encouraging bonding time with cat parents while treating.

3. Gut and microbiome health

Strong dental health can support a happy microbiome in the gut and safeguard against potential health risks. Neglected oral care may lead to untreated dental infections, allowing harmful bacteria to enter the bloodstream and potentially cause systemic infections in the heart, liver or kidneys. This imbalance can influence digestion, behavior, immune function and various other aspects of your pet’s health.

4. Reduced tooth loss and better breath

Preserving your pets' wellbeing involves addressing the risk of tooth loss, a crucial aspect of their ongoing health. Like children, kittens and puppies naturally lose baby teeth, but adulthood should not bring tooth loss from unattended dental issues. Such tooth loss can impair a pet's ability to eat, play and interact normally, evolving into a health concern.

Taking proactive daily measures to support dental health, such as reducing plaque and tartar buildup, can effectively minimize the risk of teeth loss due to advanced dental disease. This ensures that pets maintain vitality and enjoy various activities as they age, while also contributing to fresher breath and enjoyable interactions.

5. Positive behavior and comfort

Dental discomfort can influence a pet’s behavior, resulting in reduced food intake, irritability or mild changes in mood. Pain from dental problems may lead to avoidance of eating or difficulty with regular food consumption. Consider the last time you had a toothache — addressing it likely improved your behavior and energy levels. The same applies to our pets.

Investing in your pet's dental health is not just an act of care; it's a supportive move toward ensuring their physical health, comfort and overall wellbeing. Dental chews and treats are a simple way to maintain dental health at home. To learn more and find Wellness® WHIMZEES® near you, visit https://www.whimzees.com/.

*With added vitamins, minerals & taurine

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Deepen your bond with your pet through shared meal experiences https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42702/ 242041042702 Mon, 22 Jan 2024 09:01:00 GMT (BPT) - From swapping recipes with friends on social media to crafting meals that bring your family together, food has transformed into a way to bond with others and show you care. But have you ever thought of how you can share meal experiences with your pet? Now, more people are turning their love of food into a meaningful opportunity to bond with their pets.

This isn’t just eating at the same time. Shared mealtime experiences mean pet owners are creating human dishes for themselves that are inspired by the ingredients in their pup’s food bowl. Once the dish is ready, you can both enjoy meals that mimic each other while spending quality time together. It’s an activity that fills your belly and your cup at the same time.

Shared meal inspiration

Your dog is one of your most beloved companions, so it makes sense that as a dog owner, you may want to better understand your dog’s mealtime experience. Through a new program called ‘Share A Bowl with Beneful,’ dog owners feeding their dogs select Beneful formulas can explore tasty complementary human recipes that highlight some of the colorful, wholesome and natural ingredients found in the formulas.

To make this possible, Beneful created a free downloadable cookbook that includes four easy-to-follow human recipes inspired by your dog’s favorite Beneful products. Sharing meals in this way encourages pet owners to take an active, empathic approach to what their dog experiences at mealtime. Learn more at Beneful.com/Bowl.

For example, while your pup relishes a bowl of Beneful Originals With Beef, you can make and enjoy a complementary dish of Beef Bulgogi Bowls inspired by the ingredients found in this formula. With delicious beef, rice, peas and spinach it’s a wholesome, satisfying meal that comes with an extra helping of joy because you are sharing the moment together.

Another inspiring recipe is for Parchment Baked Salmon and Sweet Potatoes, served over vegetable rice. This recipe reflects the quality ingredients in Beneful Originals With Salmon. Bake this dish for yourself before sitting down and serving your pup’s food so you can both enjoy your respective dishes at the same time.

Signs of enjoyment

As you savor the tasty ingredients in your dish, you can look for signs your dog is enjoying his bowl as well. Positive reactions like tail wagging, perked ears and general mealtime excitement indicate he's digging his dish.

Want to enhance your shared dining experience even more? If you're in the mood for tunes, play some music during mealtime. Once you're both finished with your respective meals, spend some additional time together either relaxing, cuddling or getting outside for a post-meal walk.

Shared mealtime experiences create joy, because when people and pets bond, life becomes richer. Building a bowl for yourself inspired by the ingredients in your dog’s favorite pet food formula can make you feel closer to your pet and sets the stage to better understand each other. Meals together may soon become the favorite time of day for you and your pet.

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Only Dog Breed National Championship to Crown Winner https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42134/ 239681042134 Thu, 28 Dec 2023 11:29:00 GMT Play Video

(BPT) - If you’re a dog lover, you won’t want to miss the paw-formance of the year, the 2023 AKC National Championship presented by Royal Canin broadcast. The event took place December 16-17 at Orlando’s Orange County Convention Center and will be broadcast on December 31 at 2 pm ET. Extensive live coverage on AKC.tv will be available with the first of three All-Breed dog shows.

The National Championship is the only all-breed dog show organized and presented directly by the AKC, the nation’s oldest and only not-for-profit purebred dog registry. This year, a record 5,762 dogs from 50 states and Washington, D.C. will compete to be crowned America’s National Champion. In addition to the $50,000 Best in Show prize, $100,000 will be awarded.

AKC National Championship runs multiple national events under the same roof. In conjunction with the AKC National Championship presented by Royal Canin, the AKC Agility Invitational presented by YuMOVE, AKC Obedience Classic, AKC National Owner-Handled Series Finals, AKC Fast CAT Invitational and the AKC Royal Canin National All-Breed Puppy and Junior Stakes were also held. Junior handler competitions included the Junior Showmanship Finals, the AKC Obedience and Rally Junior Showcase and AKC Junior Agility Competition.

To learn more, visit akc.org.

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First-of-its-kind parvo treatment to revolutionize care for fatal puppy virus https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42127/ 239681042127 Tue, 12 Dec 2023 14:09:00 GMT Play Video

(BPT) - While getting a new pet can be one of life’s biggest joys, research shows only 44% of dog owners know about a common fatal disease, putting pups at risk[1]. Parvovirus is one of the deadliest and most contagious viruses that affects more than 900 dogs per day in the U.S. — many of which are puppies[2].

If left untreated, parvo has a mortality rate of up to 91%[3]. Parvo spreads by direct dog-to-dog contact as well as contact with contaminated feces, environments, or people.

In July 2023, an 8-week-old Pitbull mix, named Cookie, helped make canine health history. Weighing only 4.5 pounds, and not yet vaccinated, Cookie arrived at a parvo treatment facility with vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration — all symptoms typical of a positive parvo diagnosis. After a parvo test, Cookie was confirmed positive for this fatal virus.

Cookie was treated with Canine Parvovirus Monoclonal Antibody, a breakthrough conditionally approved treatment by Elanco Animal Health. The treatment is a single-dose IV to deliver antibodies that travel through the dog’s body to attack the virus — stopping it from infecting new cells. Cookie continued receiving care from staff and was reunited with her owner four days later, happy and healthy.

Elanco’s Canine Parvovirus Monoclonal Antibody has since saved the lives of pups across the country and enabled dogs to go home sooner, revolutionizing the parvo treatment protocol as we know it. For more information on Elanco’s Canine Parvovirus Monoclonal Antibody, visit fightparvo.com.


[1] DOF Elanco Market Research Consumer Research for Elanco’s CPMA Survey 2021 (v1.0)

[2] Elanco Animal Health. Data on File.

[3] Venn EC Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care 2017 52 (v1.0)

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Tips to keep your cat happy and healthy this holiday season and beyond https://www.brandpointcontent.com/article/42417/ 240661042417 Thu, 30 Nov 2023 17:01:00 GMT (BPT) - In the company of loved ones, the holidays transform into a meaningful celebration marked by decadent foods, delightful presents and joyous gatherings. As a pet parent, you want to share in this joy with your feline family members. This means enjoying the holiday season with your pets but also keeping them safe and comfortable so all can be merry.

Extra house guests, new foods and even innocent-looking ribbons decorating presents can be tempting to cats. The best way to keep your feline happy and healthy this holiday season is to take a proactive approach and follow these tips.

1. Understand litterbox habits

Your cat’s litterbox habits provide important insight into their overall wellness, including if they got into some holiday fun they shouldn’t have. However, inspecting a litterbox is not a cheery chore. Fortunately, this is the golden age of pet tech, and keeping an eye on your cat’s litterbox habits is now as simple as opening an app.

Solutions like the Petivity™ Smart Litterbox System help pet parents better understand their cat’s health by monitoring litterbox habits. Developed by a team of Purina behaviorists, veterinarians and data scientists, the system’s artificial intelligence is able to learn each cat’s unique litterbox patterns and identify subtle changes that can have big implications. Even small fluctuations in weight, frequency in litterbox visits and the types of elimination can be early signs of health concerns.

Like with all good, smart tech, setup is simple. Monitors are placed under a litterbox to track each cat’s data and habits. Then, if anything requires the owner’s attention, an alert is sent automatically to their phone. It’s a slick process, good to have all year round, and provides excellent insights during the hectic winter holidays.

2. Be mindful while being merry

The holidays are a prime time to pique a cat’s curiosity. From decadent scents and festive foods to sparkling ribbons and jingling bells — there’s a lot to attract their attention. While sharing the holidays with your feline is fun, it’s important to be cautious.

Some potential toxic temptations, like chocolate, are already well known. But some sneakier ones also pop up this time of year. For example, lilies, amaryllis and poinsettias are popular cut flowers in festive decor, but they are toxic to cats who can be tempted to chew on them.

When possible, keep food and plants up high or away where cats can’t reach them. If a cat does eat something and you don’t see it, the litterbox monitoring system can help detect any changes and alert them to you. Then you can determine next steps to keep your feline feeling well and have important information to share if a call to the veterinarian is in order.

Another healthy step pet parents can take during the holidays is to monitor stress. If you’re hosting a holiday event, consider a quiet room where cats can always retreat away from guests. This gives them a safe space to use as needed so they can rest, relax and recharge.

Keep in mind, stress alone from holiday gatherings can potentially cause digestive issues for cats. If the duration and frequency of litterbox visits change, it’s a solid sign that kitty could use some calm. In addition to quiet spaces, some love from their favorite human — you — is often welcome during the hectic holiday season.

3. Gift proactive cat health

Remember, the best holiday gift you can give your cat or the cat lover in your life is the chance to be proactive about their health. Leverage smart tech, like the Petivity™ Smart Litterbox System, to monitor your cat's litterbox habits. Also, make sure to schedule your annual checkup for the new year to keep your veterinarian in the loop about your pet’s health.

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