Cats are truly some of the most unique domesticated animals and are exceptionally clean. They’re always grooming themselves, avoiding dirty situations as much as possible, and taking extraordinary measures to keep their waste out of sight.

Despite their best efforts, your kitten’s waste can disrupt the air quality in your home if you don’t provide proper litter for them. There are several brands, each with redeeming qualities, but which is best?

We’ve compiled a list of the best cat litter reviews and a buyer’s guide to help you make a decision.

A Quick Comparison of Our Top Picks – 2025

	Image	Product	Details
Best Overall		Kitty Poo Club	Convenient delivery service Multiple litter options Eco-friendly	CHECK PRICE
Best Value		Feline Pine Original Non-Clumping Wood Cat Litter	Clay-free Dust-free Made of pine	CHECK PRICE
Premium Choice		Purina Tidy Cats Breeze Cat Litter Pellets	Super absorbent Tackles smell like no other Perfect for apartment cats	CHECK PRICE
		Dr. Elsey's Precious Cat Ultra Clay Cat Litter	Hypoallergenic Super clumping Locks in odors extremely well	CHECK PRICE
		Frisco Multi-Cat Clumping Clay Cat Litter	Resealable pail Amazing odor control Relatively dust-free	CHECK PRICE

The 11 Best Cat Litters

1. Kitty Poo Club Subscription Cat Litter – Best Overall

We believe that Kitty Poo Club Subscription Service is the gold standard in kitty litter. It makes a variety of litters free of scents, dyes, and chemicals; many are eco-friendly and produce little to no dust. Each litter is designed to stay fresh and odor-free for 30 days.

With this subscription, litter is shipped directly to your door every 4 weeks and includes a leakproof, recyclable litter box that you discard when you switch out your litter. Kitty Poo Club also has several add-ons, such as scoops, litter box domes, litter mats, and much more, so you can customize your shipment based on the needs of your cat. Overall, we think this is the best cat litter option on the market today.

2. Feline Pine Original Non-Clumping Wood Cat Litter – Best Value

If you’re on a budget, finding quality cat litter can be tough. However, if your cat enjoys wooden cat litter, Feline PineOriginal Non-Clumping is the best cat litter for the money. It’s sold in large bags at a very affordable price. It’s made of pine fibers that work like absorbent, super sponges to trap liquids and strong odors.

Unlike our top choice, this litter is completely clay-free. This means it won’t clump up, but there won’t be dust in the air when you pour it. And there’ll be no dusty paw prints around the house when your kitty finishes.

However, we have found that this litter isn’t ideal for multiple cats and must be cleaned out regularly. While it does an excellent job of soaking up the smells of one cat, the formula isn’t strong enough to handle more.

3. Purina Tidy Cats Breeze Cat Litter Pellets – Premium Choice

If you’re looking for one of the best litter systems, don’t skip over Purina Tidy Cats Breeze pellets. They’re unique in terms of litter and how they work. Breeze pellets work like desiccants because they are absorbent dehydration pellets. The pellets don’t clump up around solids or liquids.

They dehydrate and soak up all the moisture within for solid waste. This eliminates the smell associated with cat feces. And as far as urine goes, there’s nothing to scoop. The liquid passes through the pellets and gets absorbed by a specialty mat resting below.

This system isn’t just a clump-free desiccant but is also dust-free and ideal for small living spaces and apartments. Although Tidy Cats Breeze is one of the best litters on the market, it’s way too expensive for most people.

Not only do you have to buy expensive pellets, but you also need to get the Breeze system absorbent pads and specialty litter box. Also, training your cat to transition from a standard litter to this one can be a chore.

4. Dr. Elsey’s Precious Cat Ultra Clay Cat Litter

If you’re looking for a new clay litter, Dr. Elsey’s is another excellent option. It’s available in three sizes, is made out of all-natural ingredients, and boasts superior odor control. What sets this clay litter apart from others is its hard-clumping ability. While some litters will clump into softer chunks, Dr. Elsey’s clumps up very hard to trap odors. It’s also 99.9% dust-free and hypoallergenic.

However, the hard clumping is also its biggest weakness. The clumps are so dense that they’re almost like cement at times. This isn’t a problem if your cat uses the center of the litter box and properly buries their waste.

However, if your cat uses the side or corner of their box, be prepared for a workout. The clump can fuse to the side of the litter box, making you have to chip away at it. Although Dr. Elsey’s claims that it can be used for mechanical litter boxes, we recommend against it because of that reason.

5. Purina Tidy Cats Instant Action Clay Cat Litter

This is the only brand on our list sold in a resealable pail, and it’s unfortunate other manufacturers haven’t followed its lead. Purina Tidy Cats is a medium-grain clay litter infused with their signature TidyLock odor protection to help eliminate odors immediately.

The litter is purposely formulated to handle multiple cats and feels soft enough for them to paw around. Like other clay litters on this list, it’s 99.9% dust-free, but we noticed that isn’t always the case. While it’s not as dusty as other litters, it’s not the best.

Our biggest gripe about Tidy Cats Instant Action is its clumping ability. It doesn’t clump well enough, especially for urine. Often, the clumps fall apart and disintegrate when scooping them. Over time, this will make your litter start to smell bad and may discourage your cat from using their box.

6. Frisco Multi-Cat Clumping Clay Cat Litter

Frisco Multi-Cat Clumping Clay Cat Litter has so many redeeming qualities at an affordable price point that almost everyone can afford. It’s an all-natural clay formula that promotes hard clumping for easy scooping. The clay also does a fantastic job of absorbing liquids and odors. Since it’s formulated for multiple cats, there’ll be very few lingering odors—especially if it’s used for just a single cat.

We particularly enjoy the unscented variety. It’s hypoallergenic and contains no dyes, plant proteins, perfumes, or added fragrances that can create an unhealthy environment for you and your cat. It’s also relatively low-tracking, and you won’t find remnants all over your house.

Frisco Multi-Cat works great in manual sifting and mechanical litter boxes. The biggest downside is the packaging it comes in. It comes in a plastic bag that isn’t resealable. So, you’ll need to have a jumbo clip nearby or transfer it into another easy-to-transport container once opened.

7. Arm & Hammer Clump & Seal Multi-Cat Clay Cat Litter

Regarding clay litters, few are as polarizing as Arm & Hammer Clump & Seal Multi-Cat. You and your cat either love this litter or hate it due to its texture. Instead of a medium-grain clay, it has a more sandy feel. The clay is mixed with Arm & Hammer’s moisture-activated micro granules and baking soda. The micro granules form a crust around the odors, while the baking soda neutralizes it from within.

There’s generally no issue with clumping because of the texture, which can form very hard clumps. It’s also great for multiple cats and keeps odor to a bare minimum. Since it’s dust-free, you’ll breathe easy while pouring it in.

The litter also comes in a box instead of a bag, which we like much better. However, the largest size is a 28-pounder, and you’ll have to repurchase more often. It’s also not hypoallergenic.

8. World’s Best Multi-Cat Clumping Corn Cat Litter

If you’re looking for a clay-free alternative, you might want to consider the World’s Best Multi-Cat Corn litter. It’s a very eco-friendly blend entirely made out of corn, and it’s 100% free from other synthetic or harmful chemicals found in most litters. Since there’s no silica dust in the formula, you won’t have to worry about large clouds rising to meet you when refilling it.

World’s Best is also an unscented litter, and it’s even flushable! But some issues need to be addressed. It’s not the best when it comes to trapping odors. In fact, if you have multiple cats, it can smell terrible. Also, it doesn’t work well with automatic litter boxes. Lastly, it’s expensive, and picky cats aren’t typically very keen on it.

9. Scoop Away Complete Performance Clay Cat Litter

While we’re not the biggest fans of scented litter, you may love them. If that’s the case, check out Scoop Away Complete Performance. It’s a clumping clay litter that does a great job of locking in odors and has a fresh scent to help brighten the room. The formula also contains several all-natural plant extracts to eliminate unwanted smells.

It also creates ultra-tight clumps that won’t crumble away while scooping but don’t stick to the sides of the box either. Scoop Away isn’t dust-free, but the dust isn’t as bad as it could be. It is relatively inexpensive, but the scent is very strong! So, instead of just lightly masking odors, Scoop Away replaces it with one of its own.

10. Fresh Step Multi-Cat Clay Cat Litter

The other scented option on our list is the Fresh Step Multi-Cat Clay litter. Although we’re not too impressed by perfumed litter, this one isn’t the worst we’ve come across. However, it’s far from the best. The formula is designed for multiple cat households and utilizes the powerful scent of Febreze and specialized ammonia-block particles to keep odors in check.

The technology is supposed to seal away odors for up to 10 days, but it doesn’t last that long. Fresh Step claims to have a low-dust formula as well, but there’ a lot of dust compared to dust-free clay formulas or corn, wheat, or wood litter. However, it does a great job of clumping. It’s not cement-hard but firm enough to scoop out easily. Plus it’s very affordable.

11. Cat’s Pride Total Odor Control Clay Cat Litter

We cannot recommend Cat’s Pride Total Odor Control Clay Cat Litter. At first glance, it shows promise. It comes in a resealable, easy-to-pour jug, and it’s very inexpensive. However, that’s about where the advantages end.

The litter claims to have 10-day odor control, produce solid clumps, and is 99% dust-free. However, none of these claims can be remotely substantiated. Cat’s Pride doesn’t do a good job concealing unwanted odors. If unchanged for 10 days, the fumes can become quite noxious.

Also, Cat’s Pride produces soft clumps that either dissolve when scooping or form a slurry that sticks to the sides or bottom of the litter box. And forget about dust-free. You might want to wear a mask when pouring this litter into your kitty’s box. There will more than likely be a giant dust cloud to chase you away. Honestly, if you purchase this litter, we only recommend you pour it out and refill the jug with a better brand.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Cat Litter

When selecting the best cat litter for your feline friend, there are several factors to consider.

Scented vs Unscented

The first decision you must make is whether you want your litter scented. Scented cat litter contains fragrance to mask the odors and replace them with other pleasing smells. We prefer unscented litter because it has a much lower chance of irritating you or your cat.

Also, cats are very particular about smells, especially near their litter box. Adding a fragrance could drive your cat away from their box and cause them to use your favorite rug as a restroom.

Litter Material

The most commonly used material for litter is clay because of its super clumping ability and ability to seal in odors. However, it’s not the only litter in town. Some are crafted from eco-friendly options, such as corn, wheat, and wood.

Clay litter comes in different-sized grains—some of which can irritate your cat. However, natural litters don’t tend to cause them too much issue. Also, some alternative materials are flushable, so you can instantly dispose of your cat’s waste without having to bag it up.

Odor Control

This is probably the most sought-after feature when shopping for cat litter. Nobody wants to live in a place that reeks of cat excrement and ammonia. However, finding a litter with maximum odor control can be quite difficult.

Ideally, you want to focus on litters that absorb and neutralize foul smells instead of just masking them. Unscented litters tend to focus on this concept more than scented ones, but you’ll find that non-clay materials provide the best odor control.

If you're dealing with stubborn smells in your litter box or elsewhere in your house, a good cat litter deodorizer can work wonders.

Hepper Advanced Bio-Enzyme Cat Litter Deodorizer Powder

• Bio Enzymatic Cat Litter Freshener - Smart formulation uses natural ingredients eliminating cat...
• Save Money - Stuff for cats isn’t the cheapest. With this litter box odor eliminator, you’ll...
• Every Litter, Every Surface - Are you afraid this additive won’t work on your litter? Fear not!...

Check Price on Amazon

We recommend Hepper's Advanced Bio-Enzyme Cat Litter Deodorizer, an all-natural litter additive that fights odors using bio-enzymes. This effective deodorizer is fragrance-free and works on all types of cat litter. It's also effective anywhere you have lingering odors, including diaper pails, garbage cans, and kennels!

At Catster, we’ve admired Hepper for many years and decided to take a controlling ownership interest so that we could benefit from the outstanding designs of this cool cat company!

Clumping Ability

While non-clay cat litter typically wins out in odor control, clay is king for clumping. The ability to clump is important when it comes to actually cleaning out your litter box and replacing your cat’s litter altogether.

If your litter doesn’t clump tightly enough, you’ll end up with disintegrating clumps that create smelly dust that’s impossible to separate from the clean litter. Or the litter will form a slurry that’s difficult to remove and smells terrible. If your litter clumps too hard, it can bond to the sides and bottom of the litter box, forcing you to chisel away at it to remove it.

Age of Your Cat

When choosing cat litter, most people don’t think about their cat’s age as a factor. However,  clay litter is not safe for kittens. And that’s because of the clay’s clumping ability combined with a kitten’s exploratory mouth and smaller diameter intestines. A kitten is much more likely to ingest non-food items accidentally, and clumping cat litter will expand inside their bodies, potentially causing blockages.

Also, senior cats should have a special litter. They usually don’t clean themselves as regularly as younger cats would. You should find them a litter with very little to no dust that’s lightweight.

If you’re unsure of which cat litter is the best option for your cat, contact your vet for a recommendation.

Speak To a Vet Online From the Comfort of Your Couch!

If you need to speak with a vet but can’t get to one, head over to PangoVet. It’s an online service where you can talk to a vet online and get the personalized advice you need for your pet — all at an affordable price!

Click to Speak With a Vet

Price

Lastly, you need to consider your budget. Purchasing cat litter is a regular expense, just like their food is. The costs can quickly increase with litter systems, such as the Purina TidyCats Breeze system. However, that doesn’t mean going as cheap as possible—as you can see with the Cat’s Pride at the bottom of our list. Instead, find a good balance between price and practicality.

How We Selected Our List of Cat Litters

Catster has an experienced, expert team of writers, editors, and veterinarians who carefully consider a wide range of parameters when choosing the cat litters. This includes but is not limited to customer reviews, brand reputation, veterinary experience, hands-on testing, and of course, our cats have a say in the process too! We aim to select and review only the best products available, to help you make the best possible choice and most informed decision for your and your cat’s needs.

Why Trust Catster?

A trusted online brand since 2001, Catster has a lot of experience with cat litters. Our team of cat-loving writers, editors, and veterinarians is dedicated to helping you make the best decision for your precious cats. Our aim is to provide the best information available for cat owners to help cats live their best life possible. To do this, we scour reviews from the most trusted sources available and this, combined with our veterinary team’s experience and expertise, helps us gather the best options available to readers. Our team is deeply invested in the health and welfare of cats the world over, and believes that expert knowledge and veterinary guidance will help you make the right choices—for you and your cats!

Conclusion

Choosing the right litter for your cat is a very important task. If your cat does not like it, they’re not going to use it. However, selecting the right one is more than just trial and error. You and your cat must compromise on what’s important to you both.

You should choose one your feline is comfortable with while maintaining your smell-free, dust-free, and hygienic home. Hopefully, these cat litter reviews have given you insight into what to look for.

Our favorite is Kitty Poo Club for its convenience, odor control, and hypoallergenic qualities. Our favorite bargain buy is the Feline Pine Non-Clumping Wood Cat Litter because it provides a cheaper alternative to clay without sacrificing too much performance.

Featured Litter tray and scoop for cat on floor

The post 11 Best Cat Litters in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks by Catster Editorial Team appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Cats are fastidious animals that greatly appreciate fresh, clean litter. If the litter isn’t up to their standards, they may just do their business somewhere else—like your floor, which is why it’s important to keep up with litter box maintenance. That said, just how often should cat litter be changed?

As a general rule, you’ll want to scoopy daily, then change the litter and thoroughly clean the box about once per week, but this can vary based on multiple factors like the type of litter, how many cats you have, and your cat’s bathroom habits. We’ll take a closer look at these factors to help you gauge how often a litter change may be necessary.

The 5 Things to Consider When Changing Your Cat’s Litter

1. Type of Litter

Some types of litter—like non-clumping clay-based litter—tend to get stinky pretty quickly, whereas others stay fresh for longer. High-quality clumping litter and silicone (crystal) litter tend to fare well because they’re more absorbent. Clumping litter is especially convenient because you simply scoop out the clumps, leaving the clean litter behind, meaning it’s easier to keep the box fresh.

In addition, some litters are formulated to contain odor-neutralizing agents like baking soda, and this can also contribute to the litter’s longevity. With these kinds of litters, you might get away with changing it out only once a week or even less frequently if you maintain it well with regular scooping and cat litter deodorizers, which may help it last longer. Other, less absorbent types may need to be changed every other day.

2. Number of Cats

Naturally, the more cats you have, the quicker the litter box is going to get smelly and the more often it will need to be changed. You can help combat this by providing multiple litter boxes so everything doesn’t accumulate in one single box. There are also cat litter types specially designed for multiple-cat households, so you might want to give these a try.

3. Your Cat’s Bathroom Habits

A healthy adult cat on a high-quality food formula should only head for the litter box a few times per day (though individual needs can vary somewhat). However, if your cat has a health condition that causes them to pee more often (like a UTI, for example) or experiences issues like diarrhea, being diligent about litter maintenance is even more important than usual.

Certain medications may also affect your cat’s frequency, as could their age. Kittens go to the bathroom more often than healthy adult cats.

4. Intact vs Neutered

There is no getting around it. Intact male cats’ pee smells worse than a neutered cat’s pee does. If you live in a house containing even one unneutered male, the smell can quickly become overpowering. You can speak to your vet for more information on neutering.

Speak To a Vet Online From the Comfort of Your Couch!

If you need to speak with a vet but can’t get to one, head over to PangoVet. It’s an online service where you can talk to a vet online and get the personalized advice you need for your pet — all at an affordable price!

Click to Speak With a Vet

5. How Much Litter There Is

The litter should be deep enough for your cat to dig in and cover their poop. If it is too shallow, the absorbency will be affected, and it will start to smell in no time.

How to Clean a Litter Box

Spot cleaning your cat’s litter box every day (removing clumps or feces) goes a long way to making sure it stays fresh smelling for longer. However, it’s important to give the box a good clean when you change out the litter, whether that be once per week or more.

Simply emptying the litter box isn’t enough to keep smells at bay because the odor compounds linger. Luckily, cleaning a litter box is really easy. All you need to do is empty out the old litter, then wash the box out with water and a mild soap. Avoid using bleach or cleaning products containing strong chemicals as these can be risky for cats.

You can let the box soak for a while if it is especially smelly. Then, empty out the water, rinse to get rid of all the soap, and wipe the box down with a dry cloth. Replace the litter in the clean, dry box. If you like, you can sprinkle some litter deodorizer or a little baking soda on the bottom of the box before putting the litter in—this may help it last longer.

Cleaning up after our pets is not the most enjoyable part of owning them. Despite keeping a clean litterbox, cat odors and stains may still exist around the house. Sometimes, even the best litter box setup needs extra help. If you're tired of dealing with bad smells from litter boxes, Hepper Advanced Bio-Enzyme Pet Stain & Odor Eliminator Spray can help with the worst pet stains and smells. Additionally, the Advanced Bio-Enzyme Cat Litter Deodorizer neutralizes odors upon contact.

Our Favorite Products

	Image	Product	Details
Best For Cleaning		Hepper Advanced Bio-Enzyme Pet Stain & Odor Eliminator Spray	Works on multiple surfaces Gentle yet effective Lifts stains & set-in odors	CHECK PRICE
Best Litter Additive		Advanced Bio-Enzyme Cat Litter Deodorizer	Neutralizes odor within cat litter Cat-safe Unscented	CHECK PRICE

At Catster, we’ve admired Hepper for many years and decided to take a controlling ownership interest so that we could benefit from the outstanding designs of this cool cat company!

Conclusion

Some litter needs to be changed every other day whereas other types can last for a week or more with proper maintenance routines. If you’re concerned because your cat’s “deposits” are smellier than usual or they seem to be going to the bathroom more regularly, please check this out with a vet.

Featured Image Credit: New Africa, Shutterstock

The post How Often Should I Change Cat Litter? 5 Things to Consider (Vet-Reviewed) by Catster Editorial Team appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

It’s a fact: Cats do not like having their teeth brushed. But it’s also true that poor dental health can dramatically shorten your cat’s lifespan. So what’s a kitty owner to do?

TEEF for Life says they have the solution. This innovative animal dental care company has created a powder that changes how mouth bacteria behave, thereby protecting teeth against plaque buildup and decay. And all you have to do is add a tiny amount of it to your cat’s water dish food, treats, toys… anything, each day to see these amazing results.

I had a chance to try TEEF for Life’s Protektin30 Prebiotic Dental Powder for Cats on my one-year-old Domestic Shorthair, Makoa. After three weeks of using this product in water, I can’t say enough about how easy it makes daily dental care. Find out what else I like about this product and where I found room for improvement in my full TEEF for Life review, below.

Overview

Our Experience

I first discovered TEEF for Life when looking for oral care solutions for my senior dog with advanced periodontal disease. After a couple of months of use, I saw a dramatic improvement in her oral health.

My cat, Makoa, is still young enough that his teeth are in great shape but I know that won’t last if I don’t start caring for those teeth. And with this feisty feline, brushing is simply not an option, at least, if I want to keep all my fingers.

That’s why I decided to give TEEF for Life a try for him.

In addition to their dog-specific formula and their All Pet formula, they also have a cat-specific formula, and that’s the one I decided to use for Makoa.

After three weeks of using this product, I’ve found a lot to love about it and have very few complaints.

What I Liked

The thing I have always loved most about TEEF for Life is how easy it is to use. All you have to do is get a tiny spoonful of the powder in your cat’s mouth each day and that’s it!

This product works by changing how the bacteria in your cat’s mouth function. Bad bacteria eat sugar and starch and create plaque and acid—both very bad for teeth. This powder changes the bacteria’s metabolic pathways, causing them to switch to a diet of protein, instead.It’s like a Keto diet for oral bacteria!

One way these rewired bacteria get the protein and nutrients they need is from the proteins and amino acids in your cat’s diet and saliva.. This new diet not only helps break down existing plaque but also reduces acid production to protect tooth enamel.

While TEEF for Life is sure to note that their product should be used along with a daily tooth care routine, using it alone is certainly better than doing nothing, which is the only other option most cat owners have.

As I mentioned, Makoa’s teeth are in good shape since he’s so young, so there isn’t much of an effect to note. However, I know from using this product on my dogs that it definitely helps reduce bad breath and plaque buildup. And I’m hopeful that by starting this product now, Makoa will never have to deal with these common dental issues.

Where I See Room for Improvement

When I first started adding this product to Makoa’s water bowl, I noticed that he seemed hesitant to drink. I reduced the amount to half a scoop and this seemed to help. After about a week, I slowly increased the amount to a full dose, which he tolerated well.

The taste may be off-putting to some cats. Luckily, this formula is effective even at low doses. For super-picky cats, the “All Pet” formula might be a better choice as it’s designed for sensitive systems and kidneys, and picky palates.

The only other issue I noticed is that the product causes some extra scum buildup in the water bowl. This isn’t a big issue, but it does mean I have to wipe out Makoa’s water bowl every day rather than just dumping and refilling it.

Aside from taking some time to get used to and requiring some extra bowl cleaning, this product has been super easy to use. And, from my past experience with it, I’m confident that it’s effective for promoting oral health.

One thing is for certain, it’s a lot easier than brushing those dagger kitty teeth! I would definitely recommend it to any cat owner looking to prevent or treat oral health issues.

Pros & Cons

Key Features

Ingredients

Protektin30 Prebiotic Dental Powder for Cats contains four ingredients:

All these ingredients work together to reduce plaque and bad breath while supporting beneficial oral bacteria and overall oral health.

Kit Contents

When you first order TEEF for Life, you’ll want to choose the “Dental Kit” option. This kit includes pouches of Protektin powder, a reusable glass jar with a desiccant packet to keep the powder fresh, and a scoop for easy measuring. You can choose from 30, 90, or 180 servings.

When your kit arrives, simply pour the powder into the glass jar and add the desiccant packet to keep it safe and fresh. After your initial order, you can conveniently order refills of just the powder packets, or subscribe for ongoing savings.

What to Expect

Protektin works to improve your cat’s oral health gradually, delivering noticeable results at different stages:

You should see full results after about 5 weeks, but consistency is key. To ensure effective use, add the powder to your cat’s water daily after you refresh the dish. This simple routine will help maximize the benefits of Protektin.

About TEEF for Life

TEEF for Life was started by Dr. Emily Stein, who also owns Primal Health, which also has some very effective and easy-to-use people products.

Is TEEF for Life a Good Value?

TEEF for Life may be a bit more of an investment than a pet toothbrush and toothpaste, but the added lifelong benefits make it well worth it.

The 30-day starter kit is an affordable entry point, and for those looking to save, the 180-day kit offers a lower cost per dose, with additional savings for subscribers. Refill packets, each providing 30 servings, are also available individually, and there are significant discounts—up to 25%—when buying in bulk and subscribing.

How We Tested

I tested this product by enlisting the help of my cat, Makoa. After ordering the TEEF for Life starter kit, I began adding the powder to Makoa’s water bowl every day.

I kept notes on how well Makoa tolerated his dosed water as well as notes about his oral health over the next three weeks.

To get a full sense of this product’s usefulness, I added it in various amounts to the water dish to see how Makoa would react. While he first tolerated only partial doses, he eventually got used to the flavor and I was able to up the amount to a full dose without any issues.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the daily dose of TEEF for Life?

The TEEF for Life dose is incredibly small at just 1/32nd of a teaspoon. This amount can be mixed with up to one gallon of water and still produce noticeable results.

How long should I use TEEF for Life?

For best results, TEEF for Life should be used—as the name indicates—for life! You can start the product as soon as your puppy or kitten is weaned and continue using it daily to maintain a healthy oral bacterial balance.

What if I have dogs too?

All of the TEEF for Life formulas are safe to use for all pets, though each formula is tailored to the specific needs and microbiomes of the species indicated. The “All Pets” formula is sodium-free and made for sensitive cats and dogs, making it a great choice for multi-pet households.

Conclusion

Whether you have a new kitten with shiny white kitten teeth or an ancient cat battling stomatitis, I highly recommend getting them on TEEF for Life sooner rather than later. This scientifically proven effective product does more than a toothbrush ever will and is so much easier to use.

I’ve seen remarkable results using this product on my senior dogs, and my cat happily laps up his TEEF water every day, which means I don’t have to worry about trying to brush his razor-sharp canines. While TEEF for Life is a bit of an investment that you’ll have to continue to make for the life of your cat, it’s a very simple and very effective way to improve their oral health for maximum longevity and better overall health.

The post TEEF for Life Protektin30™ Review 2025: Our Hands-On Experience by Sara Seitz appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Vet visits have always been instrumental in promoting our pets’ health and longevity. But for most cats, the experience can be more stressful than anything. The strange setting and unwanted interactions with unfamiliar people make a perfect formula for anxiety, leading to aggression in many instances. Vets often can’t administer tests or treatments with uncooperative pets, making the experience frustrating and unfulfilling for the animal, the owner, and the veterinary staff.

Fear, anxiety, and stress (FAS) at the vet have come into the spotlight in recent decades, spurring the Fear Free movement. Fear Free is an organized effort to educate experts and owners looking to make vet visits more accommodating and calming so pets can get the care needed to thrive. Discover what Fear-free vets are and what they can offer to make your anxious cat remain calm and have more productive trips to the vet.

How Does Fear-Free Veterinary Medicine Work?

Fear Free focuses on the anxiety pets often suffer at the vet. It supports veterinarians, vet staff, and owners with resources to make the clinical experience less stressful and frightening. Collaborations of companion-animal vets, behaviorists, veterinary specialists, trainers, and other animal experts create courses and certification programs to keep professionals and clients updated on best practices. The goal is to reduce stress and optimize the care cats and other pets receive.

Veterinarians can become Fear Free-certified by registering for certification programs on the Fear Free website. Individuals and multi-member practices can sign up for certification. Fear Free separates programs for general vet professionals, avian specialists, and equine specialists.

Fear Free can help reduce anxiety for pets in any stressful situation, including non-clinical settings. Certification is available for trainers, groomers, pet sitters, and boarding and daycare facilities. Even owners and shelter staff can gain support from Fear Free. A growing collection of free articles, guides, podcasts, and videos show them how to keep their cats happy, healthy, and safe.

What Do Fear-Free Vets Do?

Fear-free vets adapt their processes to suit each patient’s unique needs. The following are some of the methods Fear Free practices may use to help cats relax during their visit:

How to Get Fear-Free Certification

Fear-Free certification entails a one-time signup fee for everyone receiving the training. After purchasing the membership, members complete certification programs consisting of several modules. They must also take online assessments and complete a virtual visit to see Fear-Free practices in action. By completing an extra 35 hours of CE (continuing education), professionals can earn an “Elite” status to showcase their commitment to advanced education.

Membership requires annual renewal, which comes with a fee. To maintain a Fear-Free certification, vets must complete 4 hours of Fear-Free CE annually.

Fear-Free members enjoy access to all certification programs. They can check out other CE courses and an expansive resource library of articles, podcasts, and webinars to stay updated on best practices. Additionally, Fear Free offers marketing materials and a toolbox. Vets can use these in their practices to advertise and implement their training. Members also earn a spot in the directory, helping them gain more clients looking for low-stress vet options.

Why Is Fear-Free Important?

Fear Free began in 2016 when “America’s Veterinarian,” Dr. Marty Becker, sought to expand awareness of FAS and how pet professionals and owners can take action. Most cats experience some anxiety at the vet. A German study found over 88% of cats showed stress signs, while roughly 50% of owners likewise felt stress, often stemming from their pets’ anxiety.¹

Cats have shown a white-coat effect similar to humans entering a doctor’s office.² Blood pressure rises as cats feel stress from the clinical environment. While this may decrease with time, the effect often doesn’t disappear entirely.

Vet visits are stressful for many animals. The “fight or flight” response is an inherent survival trait cats can display when they feel pain or illness and must interact with a stranger in an uncomfortable environment. Poor experiences can make future visits more challenging as cats associate each step with stress, starting with getting in the carrier at home.

Overly anxious pets complicate routine exams and other procedures by being agitated and uncooperative. Many cats become aggressive, putting workers in harm’s way and limiting the quality of care. In some cases, more involved procedures are often challenging due to the reduced efficacy of sedation and anesthesia associated with stressed animals.

The challenges stress creates can make owners less likely to seek medical care. Over a quarter of cat owners limit their vet visits because they cause too much anxiety for their pets.³ By implementing Fear-free practices, veterinarians can create a calmer environment and offer more thorough and effective care. Clients subsequently gain more confidence in bringing their pets in for checkups.

Where Is It Used?

Since Fear Free began, thousands of professionals worldwide have taken advantage of its teachings. With programs for virtually any pet professional, Fear Free offers owners the chance to seek out groomers, dog walkers, pet sitters, and boarding facilities that use Fear Free techniques, ensuring the highest quality care wherever their cats go.

Advantages of Fear-Free Vets

Fear Free empowers owners to give their cats the care they deserve regardless of their anxiety issues. Trained vets prioritize emotional and mental health by considering how they should assess and handle stressors. They monitor the pet’s body language, responding with grace and patience to ease stress as it appears and never forcing procedures on an unreceptive animal.

Disadvantages of Fear-Free Vets

The primary drawback to the Fear Free certification program is the cost. Upfront costs for certification run a couple of hundred dollars, and annual dues are needed to maintain membership. Some criticize it for pushing training that uncertified vets may already apply for. To them, Fear Free can seem like an unfair advantage reserved for those willing and able to spend money on the certification.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Is Fear Free Beneficial for the Veterinarian?

Fear-free certification supports success. By applying Fear-Free principles, vets can improve client experiences, build return business, and increase customer scores. The certification also helps with marketing, allowing vets to attract clients with anxiety-prone cats.

Meanwhile, the staff enjoys more efficient and positive client interactions. With burnout a growing industry concern, the reduced conflict that comes with Fear-Free philosophies can make veterinary work feel less stressful and more fulfilling for everyone in the clinic.

How Can Owners Assist Fear-Free Vets?

Owners can start the process of calming their pets before they bring them to a Fear-Free clinic. While your vet can offer advice to manage your cat’s particular FAS struggles, the following are a few helpful steps to prepare your pet:

Contact your vet to discuss your cat’s stress before visiting a Fear Free clinic so they can plan and prepare for your pet’s needs. Clients can set their cats and the clinic for an efficient, more productive visit with these at-home steps.

Conclusion

The Fear-Free initiative centers on building trust and showing respect to pets as unique individuals with feelings that deserve recognition. Cats may enter the clinic stressed, but they’ll exit feeling calm, confident, and ready for their next appointment. Certified vets and animal experts provide critical peace of mind to owners, ensuring their pets get the care they need without sacrificing their mental or emotional well-being.

Featured Image Credit: Prostock-studio, Shutterstock

The post Fear-Free Vet: Vet-Verified Advantages, Disadvantages & FAQ by Nicole Cosgrove appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Some cats are strictly indoor pets and prefer lounging on a bed, tower, or sofa. However, others split their time between being inside and outside. So, when it comes to finding a safe place to sleep outdoors, where do our furry felines like to curl up?

Outdoor cats sleep anywhere that is safe and relatively quiet. Preferably, food and water are close by. There are a few places that are relatively common for outdoor cats to sleep in though. Let’s go over them just below.

The 7 Likely Places Outdoor Cats Sleep

1. Open Garage

An open garage is, well, an open invitation for a place to sleep, particularly if the caregiver uses the space. The owner’s scent can calm the cat and give them a sense of security they couldn’t find elsewhere. Felines are olfactorily aware of their environment. They use several forms of nonverbal communication, including scent. Somewhere that smells like home is a haven for an outdoor animal. Plus, you can’t beat a sturdy shelter that protects you from the harsh outdoor elements. Garages also have plenty of nooks and crannies to hide and hunker down.=

2. Abandoned Buildings

Feral or community cats will quickly learn the activity patterns in an area. That leaves them open to choosing abandoned buildings as places to sleep. They can explore these structures at their own pace to determine if they are safe. Once familiar with a building, it’ll likely become part of the feline’s rotation of suitable shelters.

3. Underneath Buildings or Porches

Small spaces underneath buildings or porches provide an ideal hidden spot to sleep and let down their guard. These areas often aren’t used much by people. Wildlife may avoid ones in inhabited places, leaving it free for an outdoor cat to use. The advantage of these types of hideouts is the shelter they provide, with walls all around and limited access in and out of the space.

4. Sheltered Place in the Woods

Our feline companions are in touch with the wild side when it comes to instinctive behavior. That includes finding a place to hide wherever they are. Plenty of places exist in the woods where an outdoor cat can curl up for a nap. They can use an abandoned den, go underneath a fallen tree, or crawl inside a hollowed-out log.

5. Barns

Barns are a natural choice to sleep for outdoor cats. Agriculture helped bring humans and felines together, so it’s only fitting to return to these domestication roots for shelter. The same thing that attracted cats to them in the first place is likely still present in barns, namely, rodents. That means a readily available food source in addition to a comfy place to sleep.

6. Box-Like Enclosure

The ideal place is anywhere a cat can feel secure. That’s one reason these animals like boxes so much. Surprisingly, it’s just the feeling of being enclosed that does the trick. Felines will even sit in an outline of a box, presumably with the same feelings of security. Anything an outdoor cat finds that seems reasonably safe and box-like in its shape will fit the bill.

7. Under Cars

Vets and animal welfare groups will tell you to watch out for cats sleeping under the hood or wheels of your car, especially in colder weather. The warmth of the car engine is attractive, but cats can be hurt when a car is started. That’s why you should scan the car and make some noise to alert any snoozing cats to move on before starting the engine.

The Risks for Outdoor Cats

We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention the risks for outdoor cats, both to the pets and wildlife. While some may think outdoor access is vital for their pets, it also increases their risk of disease, predation, and road traffic accidents. Disease is particularly worrisome because some conditions, like rabies and internal parasites, are transmissible to people.

While many associate rabies with dogs, cat cases outnumbered canine ones sixfold at 216 in 2021. An infected feline may not show signs for up to a year, making it even more dangerous. It is 100% fatal once the infection is evident. Any mammal, including people, can get the disease, with an equally grim prognosis if left untreated.

We must also consider the impacts on wildlife. According to the Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, cats were a factor in the extinction of 40 bird species, 21 mammals, and 2 reptile species. Another 367 combined species were threatened by feline predation. It’s a global problem, with the Polish Academy of Sciences (PASIFIC) going so far as to categorize domestic cats as an “invasive alien species.”

The issue with cats involves predation on species that haven’t had time to adapt. It’s literally a case of shooting fish in a barrel. And these animals aren’t even the most successful predators, with a kill rate of only 32%. Imagine what the estimated 2.4 billion birds killed by felines would be if that percentage was higher.

Conclusion

Outdoor cats are opportunistic regarding finding a place to sleep. They aren’t picky. However, it must be safe and give the animal a sense of security. Covered spaces with an opening to keep track of the goings-on outside are ideal for them.

Above, we identified several common spots where you might find a snoozing feline taking a much-needed cat nap, although we’re sure there are plenty of others that our outdoor felines are keeping private!

Featured Image Credit: caligari77, Pixabay

The post Where Do Outdoor Cats Sleep? 7 Places They Like to Curl Up (Vet-Reviewed) by Chris Dinesen Rogers appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Cat owners want to do everything they can to ensure their cats are comfortable, safe, and happy. Knowing that cats get up and play, hunt, or just move around the house in the middle of the night, some owners wonder whether it is a good idea to leave a light, or even a nightlight on, for their cats.

However, cats have very different eyesight and visual capabilities to humans and as long as there is just a small amount of light, they can see very well even in the middle of the night. As such, there is no reason to leave a light on for a healthy cat, although some cats, including those with certain visual impairments, might benefit.

Cat Vision

Cats have excellent vision in some ways. They have a wider field of vision than people, so they can see what’s going on around them. They are also excellent at spotting or identifying any movement. While they can’t make out as much detail as humans can, they truly excel when it comes to night vision. This is thanks to a reflective layer at the back of the eye.

The layer reflects light through the retina once it has initially passed through the eye. This enables cats to be able to use even small amounts of light to be able to see more efficiently even in very dark conditions.

In the wild, cats use their impressive night vision to see prey and combine it with their excellent ability to detect motion when hunting small animals. Despite the fact they do most of their hunting at night, cats are not fully nocturnal. They are closer to being crepuscular, which means they are most active at dusk and dawn, which is also when their prey is most active.

Unfortunately for owners, this means that our cats are most likely to get bursts of energy as the sun sets and again when it rises, and this is why pet cats can tend to wake us up once the lights are out.

The 4 Reasons Not to Leave the Light On

Wild cats are crepuscular. They are most active at dusk and dawn, but domestic pet cats don’t need to hunt or forage for food so you can encourage them to live the same hours as you do. And there are several reasons you likely won’t want to leave the lights on at night for your cat.

1. Reduce Rowdy Playfulness

Cats come alive when it gets dark outside. It’s natural but it’s also off-putting for those that share the house with the cat. Although your cat can see perfectly well in reduced light, leaving a light on can encourage the cat to become rowdier and more excited.

2. Set Routines

If your cat becomes accustomed to having the light on at night and doesn’t sleep during the nighttime hours, they will be less inclined to change this. This doesn’t just mean one or two sleepless nights, either. It will likely lead to your cat developing routines throughout the night.

Whether that’s running up and down the stairs, using the opportunity for some heavy scratch post usage, or anything else, it means the whole house will be subject to your cat’s nighttime whims.

3. They Can See to Get Around

Cats don’t need lights on at night. Although they can’t see in total darkness, they can see with virtually any amount of low light, including moonlight from outside or the glare of streetlights outside the windows.

4. It Won’t Disturb You

Even if it’s a crack of light under the doorway, it can be enough to illuminate an otherwise darkened room. The extra light, when coupled with the noise your cat makes because they are awake and lively, means you’re less likely to enjoy a proper night’s sleep.

When to Leave the Light On

Very young kittens can become distressed when they are first separated from their mother and littermates. It can be a good idea to leave a low light on for the first couple of days while your new kitten is settling in.

Also, if your cat has failing eyesight, it can be a good idea to leave a light on, so they have additional light to help them get around.

The 5 Tips to Quieten Your Cat at Night

Some cats are noisy at night, even when you do turn the lights off. Below are some tips to help quieten your cat at night so the whole house can get some decent rest.

1. Keep Them Active During the Day

Despite their reputation as low-maintenance pets, cats need physical exercise and mental stimulation every day. Keeping their body and mind working during daylight hours will ensure they are tired enough to sleep overnight. Do this consistently to establish a routine your cat can get used to. Cat TV, toys, music, training, climbing towers, and puzzles are great ways to keep your cat active.

2. Provide a Comfortable Resting Spot

Some cats can get comfortable anywhere. Others have very specific requirements and if you don’t meet those requirements, they won’t settle. Provide your cat with a comfortable bed and a blanket and ensure it is away from drafts and in a conveniently elevated position.

3. Offer Peaceful Toys

Nighttime playtime is natural for cats, and it is difficult to completely prevent it. You can, however, ensure your cat has a healthy supply of peaceful toys to play with. Consider toys like licking mats and silent balls, although no ball is completely silent when it’s rolling around a hard floor or bouncing off the wall.

4. Set a Routine and Stick to It

Try to get into a routine with set mealtimes for your cat, as well as a dedicated bedtime. You can vary the time a little, but keeping a similar routine will get your cat into the habit of going to bed to sleep at the same time every night.

5. Avoid Playing Immediately Before Bedtime

Avoid playing with your cat immediately before bedtime and ensure that you give them their evening meal at least an hour before you want them to go to sleep. This will help encourage restfulness and ensure you can get a good night’s sleep, too.

Conclusion

Cats can see very well in very low light conditions, even if that light is only moonlight or streetlight through the window. As such, you do not need to leave a light on at night. In fact, doing so could encourage your cat to run around, play, and make noise.

Encourage restfulness by getting into a consistent routine including set evening mealtimes and lights out time.

Featured Image Credit: Mookmixsth, Shutterstock

The post Should I Leave a Light on For My Cat? Vet-Approved Care Facts by Matt Jackson appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Male and female cats can have physical and behavioral differences. Additionally, each faces its own unique health challenges, which can make it essential to know what sex you’re adopting.

The only 100% reliable way of knowing a cat’s sex is by looking at their genitals, some subtle differences in their facial structure may be able to provide insight. Read on to learn more.

Note: While the words “sex” and “gender” are often used interchangeably, there is a distinction between the two terms with “sex” referring to the biological, chromosomal and physiological characteristics and “gender” being more complex to define and primarily a human concept and social construct. In this article we are referring to a cat’s biological sex.

The 3 Tips on How to Tell a Cat’s Gender By Their Face

1. Head Shape

Males, especially unneutered ones, have large, rounded heads with angular facial structures. Their broader faces are due to hormones, namely testosterone. Testosterone is a major factor in muscle development and stimulates the release of growth hormones, which contribute to bone density and growth.

Females will generally have a softer facial shape and more delicate features.

2. Jowls & Snout

Intact males, in particular, have very prominent jowls (also sometimes adoringly referred to as “tomcat cheeks”) due to the presence of testosterone. A tomcat’s chubby cheeks are more than just a cute facial feature; they can also protect their face and neck during fights.

Their snouts can also be longer and broader than females.

3. Whiskers

Cats use their whiskers to learn more about their world. Brushing whiskers against objects provides information about the object’s size and texture. A cat’s whiskers come in handy when they’re trying to gauge whether they can fit into tight spaces. So, it makes sense that a male’s whiskers would be longer simply because they’re larger than females.

Intact adult male cats often have larger whisker pads than their female counterparts, adding volume to their face and giving a softer appearance.

How to Tell a Cat’s Gender by Their Genitals

The only surefire way to tell a cat’s sex is by examining its genitals. This can be more difficult before a kitten is 6 weeks old as their genitalia is still underdeveloped and not easily visible. When you have a litter of kittens it can be helpful to compare littermates.

Once they’ve hit 6-8 weeks of age, determining a cat’s gender is usually pretty simple. You’ll need to focus on two things:

To figure out what sex your kitten is, follow these simple steps:

If you’re still not sure, your veterinarian can help.

Final Thoughts

Male cats are larger in height and weight than their female counterparts, and the same rule applies to their faces. Males, especially intact ones, will have chubbier “cheeks” and large, rounded heads. Their snouts and whiskers are generally longer. Females have softer facial shapes and more delicate features.

While you can use your cat’s face to guess its sex, this isn’t a foolproof method. If you want to know your cat’s gender with 100% certainty, you’ll need to examine their genitals.

Featured Image Credit: Next is nicer-K-R7, Shutterstock

The post How to Tell Cat Gender By Face? 3 Vet-Approved Ways by Chantelle Fowler appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

A car ride often represents three things to your cat: change, a lack of control, and loss of freedom. Felines hate all of them, and this ramped-up anxiety and stress are even able to trigger vomiting or motion sickness in your kitty. It’s easy to see why when you consider it from a feline perspective. Dogs often go for rides for happy reasons, like trips to the dog park. However, the chances are your cat only goes to the vet when they leave their home, which teaches them that the car is a very stressful space over time.

Why Car Rides Are Stressful for Cats

Remember that cats are both predators and prey. Thus, they exhibit different coping styles when faced with unfamiliar situations, like riding in a car. They may take a proactive approach with a fight-or-flight response. It can include excessive vocalizations, hissing, and spitting. Felines may react passively by remaining motionless and curling up, perhaps to protect themselves.

Cats don’t like change because their survival depends on their awareness of their environment, whether hunting or fleeing a predator. Putting them in a carrier takes away their control over their choice of how to react. That leaves them feeling vulnerable, thus causing stress and anxiety. From your pet’s point of view, it’s a big unknown. It can also be the memory of a past adverse experience.

Think of how you might feel in such a situation. Your heart may race and you’re on high alert for anything you can detect about what might occur. It’s the same with your cat, especially if you rarely take them on car rides. You add things like sensations of the vehicle moving, and that leaves the makings of the perfect storm for motion sickness.

The Risks of Motion Sickness and Stress in Cats

Motion sickness in itself isn’t harmful to your pet, but it is uncomfortable and incredibly stressful. The signs of motion sickness in cats include the following:

The indirect consequences can be more severe. One study found that 28% of cat owners would take their pets to the vet more often if it weren’t such an ordeal. It also showed that 40% of cats hadn’t seen a vet for the past year. That’s especially risky for felines since they often hide signs of a problem until they can’t any longer.

It becomes increasingly problematic when an issue occurs. Stress morphs into a safety concern for the vet and their staff handling the agitated animal. It can also hamper treatment efforts if the cat becomes aggressive. Sedation may be your vet’s only choice if they can’t handle your pet.

Helping Your Cat Remain Calm

Cats react differently to motion sickness. It’s helpful to consider prevention and treatment options on an individual basis. Sometimes the goal is to reduce the stress and anxiety associated with car rides. One effective way to curb stress is by getting your pet used to the carrier. One study found it an excellent way to make vet visits easier and even decrease exam times. A cat that is less anxious is more manageable to handle.

You should also make the car ride more comfortable by keeping it at an optimal temperature. Make the trip as quick as possible with any available shortcuts, preferably in light traffic. Research suggests that species-appropriate music may have a calming effect. It includes frequencies within the feline vocal ranges and sounds of real cats.

We also recommend withholding food for a few hours before you go. Put the open carrier on the floor to let your pet explore it on their terms. One study found that a feline facial pheromone product is an excellent stress preventive for short trips. You can add a piece of clothing to the carrier for something that smells like home to your cat.

Here are some other helpful tips you might consider:

Medications

Your vet may recommend medication in some cases. Some over-the-counter products may alleviate the stress that can trigger motion sickness. Prescriptions for anxiety and nausea also exist if these don’t alleviate the problem. The important thing is that you have options so that you needn’t avoid taking your cat to the clinic. However, the treatment plan depends on the individual animal.

At the Clinic

Making the vet experience pleasant can encourage positive associations with car rides and reduce the risk of motion sickness. High-value treats are a potent persuader for food-motivated felines. Don’t be surprised if your pet refuses the treat. The message is still hitting its mark. We suggest talking softly to your kitty to calm their fears. Cats get attached to their owners, making it an effective method.

Final Thoughts

Cats can get motion sickness because of the stress car trips cause in our pets. Felines despise change. A ride away from home couldn’t be a greater disruption to your pet’s everyday life. Fortunately, several things exist that can make it easier for your kitty and the vet. Anything you can do to calm your cat will make the examination quicker and less nerve-racking for everyone.

Featured Image Credit: RJ22, Shutterstock

The post Can Cats Get Car Sick? Vet-Verified Facts & Info by Chris Dinesen Rogers appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Everyone gets a little uneasy sometimes when their body is being tossed this way and that. Some animals get motion sickness far easier than others. If you’re wondering if cats get seasick, or motion sick, the answer is they absolutely can!

In this article, we’re going to explore a little bit more about motion sickness and ways that you can curb your cat’s queasiness.

Seasickness/Motion Sickness Explained

Seasickness is a form of motion sickness, and most motion sickness in cats is due to the anxiety and stress caused by traveling. They are being taken out of their normal environment and placed into a moving vehicle where everything feels very unsafe, potentially causing major insecurity.

To make things worse, the only place a lot of cats go is to stressful situations in themselves, such as the veterinarian or groomer, making their anxiety related to travel even greater.

Often, reducing a cat’s anxiety or stress when traveling will help, but not all solutions for motion sickness are so simple. Every cat responds differently to environmental stimuli. If your cat is sick every single time they get on a boat or in the car, time itself might not help too much.

However, if they are a kitten or simply not acclimated to the process of traveling, they might just need a little time to get accustomed to it.

Motion sickness can also be due to overstimulation of the inner ear, something that can happen with increased movement, such as from a car or boat. This is why it’s important to talk to your vet if your cat experiences motion sickness in order to get the best treatment.

How to Tell If Your Cat Is Getting Sick

It’s relatively easy to tell if a cat is getting sick. They might start acting restless, overly vocalizing, and even dry heaving. While you might already know, here are a few things to look out for so you can be prepared for your cat’s sickness.

There is often quite a bit of time in between the first signs of motion sickness to when your animal actually vomits. Some pets may not vomit but may continue to salivate and vocalize along the way.

How to Reduce Motion Sickness

There are several methods you can utilize to curb most of the issues related to motion sickness in cats. Below are a couple things you can do to make sure that your cat is comfortable and jitter-free for the ride.

Empty Stomach

It’s best to make sure that your cat’s tummy is empty before any boat or car rides. They can get a lot sicker if they have something in their stomach to throw up. While adequate hydration is important, having food sitting in the gut can actually make the motion sickness more intense, so plan their feedings accordingly.

Anxiety Supplements

There are plenty of anti-anxiety medicines on the market. If your cat gets sick due to motion they may need to have some type of medication to soothe their spirits during travel.

You should always talk to your vet before giving your cat any medication, including anxiety supplements. While you will find a number of choices over-the-counter, be sure to speak to your vet first to make sure your choice is a good one for your cat. If your cat’s anxiety is significant, you might need a prescription medication to help during this time.

Desensitization

Sometimes desensitization can lower anxiety levels. This means taking your cat for car rides, or other means of travel, frequently and for short durations. Short, frequent trips can help your kitty gain their sea legs and feel more comfortable with the whole situation.  As your cat starts to feel better about the whole thing, you can increase the length of the trips.

This includes desensitization to the carrier as well. Before ever taking their first trip, your cat should be completely at ease being in their carrier. To help them get accustomed to it, start by leaving it out and open around your house. Encourage your cat to use it by putting a comfortable bed and some of their favorite items in it. As they become comfortable using it, you can start to shut the door while they’re in there for short periods. Gradually increase the amount of time they are shut in and then start to pick them up and move them around in it. Once this becomes second nature to them, you can start putting them in the carrier and then moving them to the car.

While this doesn’t work in every case, it can if you believe the motion sickness is caused primarily by jitters.

Offer Fresh Water

Whenever you can, offer fresh, clean, cool water during travel. Keeping your pet hydrated can help significantly with motion sickness. Having a water bottle that clips to the carrier can really help with this.

Keep the Car Comfortable

The car should not be too hot or cold. Try to keep a very friendly temperature to ensure the comfort of your kitty. Keep in mind that air blowing directly on them can cause distress as well, so always make sure to cool or heat the car before your cat gets in.

Add a Favorite Item

Sometimes, everyone needs a little reassurance. If your cat is having trouble acclimating to the new environment, you might try bringing something that they like or that smells like home.

Whether this is a favorite toy, a blanket, or something else that is very familiar, it can help reduce and alleviate a lot of that stress. Keep in mind that if your cat does get sick, whatever item you choose should be easy to wipe down, in case they accidentally vomit on the item.

Conclusion

Now you understand the process of seasickness or motion sickness in cats a little better. It is perfectly normal for cats to feel this way, especially if they aren’t acclimated to traveling.

However, with proper preparation, they will typically become better adjusted to travel, especially if you expose them to it frequently. Don’t let their motion sickness keep you from putting them in the car as more frequent exposure can actually alleviate a lot of the issue.

• Also see: Can Cats Swim? Truths & Myths About Felines (Vet-Reviewed)

Featured Image Credit: Mertframe, Shutterstock

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Pet parents are more cautious and attentive than ever nowadays, leading more of us to overreact when things seem amiss with our cats. While some issues genuinely demand immediate care, many concerns are minor, making us sometimes feel we wasted our time and our vets’ time, as well as stressing our cat out, with what probably could have been an email or phone call.

Thankfully, we now have a middle ground that saves us that effort while providing valuable peace of mind: pet telehealth. Virtual vet visits are growing in popularity, streamlining the healthcare process for everyone at home and in the vet’s office. Let’s explore how pet telehealth can work for your cat and why you may benefit from these cost-effective services.

How Does Pet Telehealth Work?

Many companies offer pet telehealth services, which connect users with veterinary experts through a virtual portal. Users set up an account for their pets and schedule virtual visits or connect immediately with a professional.

Some telehealth services use websites, while others have iOS or Android apps or a combination of all three platforms. Many provide 24/7 vet access to assist owners at any time of day, helping them potentially avoid emergency vet visits.

While televisits often involve video calls, you can usually also chat with vets or call or text them on the phone to exchange videos and pictures. Telehealth services give cat owners an easy route to answer medical questions by connecting them with vets, behavioral specialists, nutritionists, trainers, and other experts.

Typical pet telehealth offerings include:

Telemedicine, the branch of telehealth dealing with diagnoses and treatment, depends on the service and your state’s laws. Vets can sometimes prescribe certain medications without requiring in-person visits.

Many services add further convenience by connecting you with vets who write prescriptions and provide prescription shipping all in one place.

What Are the Different Types of Pet Telehealth?

Telehealth platforms vary in the services they offer and their payment structure. Individual visits can range from being completely free to costing a few hundred dollars. It all depends on the extent and quality of the service and the vet. Some platforms work on subscriptions, where a monthly or annual fee provides multiple virtual vet visits and account management features like personalized care plans, pet health trackers, and reminders.

You can use telehealth services to get general advice from a remote professional or connect with your usual local vet on a remote platform. Popular telehealth services include:

If your vet uses telehealth as part of their practice, you can schedule check-ins and ask questions from your home. You can enjoy many benefits of a regular visit, including refilling prescriptions. Pet telehealth is also popping up as a perk for membership with different groups.

Walmart, for instance, added a Pawp plan for its Walmart+ customers. Meanwhile, AirVet began specializing in working with businesses to make pet telehealth an employee benefit. As cat parents increasingly prioritize their pets’ health and quality of life, more organizations are leveraging offers like pet telehealth, paw-ternity leave, and pet insurance to entice customers and quality employees.

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Where Is It Used?

Pet telehealth services are widely available. Users can access them for general health help from anywhere, though telemedicine options are much more limited.

While vets can offer advice and information on a telehealth service without previously examining an animal, they can’t diagnose or prescribe medications if they didn’t establish a veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR) in an in-person appointment.

A VCPR is crucial for vets to become familiar with your pet, keep records, and supervise follow-ups and ongoing care. Remote VCPR through a telehealth platform is only legal in a handful of states, including:

Rules vary by state, and some prescriptions are unavailable through telemedicine visits. Laws have been evolving rapidly in recent years, and more states will likely ease restrictions to allow remote VCPR to expand pet treatment options outside the clinic.

Advantages of Pet Telehealth

Telehealth services are affordable solutions for cat owners who can’t pay for a vet visit or live too far away to make the trip. After hours, being able to contact an expert can also provide reassurance so you don’t have to make unnecessary trips to the emergency vet.

Telehealth helps clinics and pet parents. Owners get faster assistance and can schedule earlier appointments if their usual vet is booked out. Plus, cats avoid the stress of car rides and vet offices. As you use these services, you also reduce the number of patients waiting at the vet, helping them receive better, faster care for their cats in the clinic.

Pet telehealth can provide answers and advice for minor and severe health concerns, with some offering at-home care suggestions and OTC treatment options. With telehealth services, more cats can get better care, particularly those who wouldn’t typically go to the vet at all.

Disadvantages of Pet Telehealth

Though many have seen the benefits of pet telehealth following its wide use during the pandemic, some experts oppose expanding the power of telehealth vets. An essential issue is telemedicine and VCPR. The AVMA and other industry associations advocate for in-person visits before they can perform remote diagnosis and provide prescriptions.

The concern is that vets can only rely on an owner’s assistance and interpretation of health issues during remote visits. Cats can’t communicate their problems. Owners can easily misidentify an issue as a result, causing them to waste money and prolong their pets’ suffering.

With an in-person VCPR, vets can evaluate cats and meet their caretakers to understand unique challenges and formulate optimal treatment plans.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does Pet Insurance Cover Pet Telehealth for Cats?

Since pet insurance providers reimburse you after you pay the vet up front, coverage depends less on which telehealth service you use and more on which pet insurance you pick. Several companies provide coverage for telehealth visits up to a certain amount.

Others partner with telehealth companies or have in-house telehealth services they give customers free of charge. Meanwhile, some companies don’t cover telehealth at all. As more owners opt for telehealth’s flexibility, more pet insurance companies will look for solutions for their customers.

If you’re in a position where telehealth makes more sense for your cat, research which pet insurance companies offer the best value.

Which Medications Can Pet Telehealth Vets Prescribe?

Getting prescriptions through any telehealth service primarily depends on where you live and your relationship with the vet. Generally, vets can make remote prescriptions if they have already established a VCPR in an in-person appointment and have seen them in person in the last 12 months.

Since state laws differ, vets may be unable to offer certain medications or treatments without seeing the pet in their office. Your telehealth vet won’t prescribe medications if you don’t have a VCPR. A few states allow you to establish a VCPR through telehealth communication, but the laws vary and limit what your vet can offer.

For instance, telehealth vets can prescribe flea and tick or heartworm medications. Controlled substances, antimicrobials, and other more powerful or targeted drugs require in-person visits. Still, places like Idaho don’t allow any telehealth prescriptions with a remote VCPR, so it’s helpful to be aware of the legal details for your state.

Conclusion

Pet telehealth is creating a new era of customer convenience and improved pet welfare. Connecting with an expert who can assess your cat, provide information, suggest at-home care, and direct you to the most effective solutions takes minutes.

You save time, effort, and money while your cat enjoys a faster path to relief. Though they don’t replace the value of in-person vet visits, telehealth services fill the gaps to answer questions and promote a better quality of life for our pets.

Featured Image Credit: Pixel-Shot, Shutterstock

The post Pet Telehealth: How Does It Work for Your Cat? Vet Approved Facts & FAQ by Nicole Cosgrove appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.