10 Different Catnip Toys for Cats

Posted on August 25, 2010 by Dan, your cutestpetever admin

Catnip is a member of the mint family known to produce a state of euphoria in about two-thirds of cats. Cats who are given catnip may roll in it, paw it or even eat it. Cats who enjoy catnip will respond to both fresh and dried varieties. Pet owners who wish to provide some sensorial stimulation for their feline companions have a variety of toys from which to choose.


1.) The Kong Squirrel Catnip Toy is a smaller version of the clever rodent that cats love to watch at birdfeeders. This stuffed toy contains no strings, mylar or exposed bells which can sometimes be dangerous to cats. The squirrel also has an opening so that the catnip can be replaced when it looses its strength. Kong sells catnip “teabags” for mess-free play that can be put inside the squirrel, or kitty owners can refill the squirrel with loose catnip. Kong also makes other versions of this toy in different animal shapes.


2.) The Fat Cat Catfisher Doorknob Hanger with 4 Catnip Lures is a whimsical toy designed to fit over a standard doorknob. The four detachable lures can be replaced if they get worn out. The toy is in the shape of a cartoon cat head and the lures are shaped like colorful sea creatures. If you’re tired of reaching under the refrigerator to extract lost cat toys, this may be the toy for you.


3.) The Purr Muda Triangle isn’t just cleverly named – it’s filled with strongly-scented, organic catnip. The Purr Muda triangle is five inches long and is made in the U.S.A. Choose from three colors – pink, green and yellow. Although it’s a relatively simple toy in the shape of a triangle, kitties love it.


4.) The Bergan Turbo Scratcher Cat Toy has two functions. It’s entertaining and enjoyable for your cat, plus it allows your cat to indulge his scratching instinct on the toy’s corrugated cardboard base and not your furniture! Cats are instantly drawn to the catnip-scented cardboard and plastic ball that spins around the plastic channel that circles the perimeter. The cardboard pad in the middle can be replaced.


5.) Pawbreakers Candy for Cats is an unusual toy. Winner of the Cat Fancier’s Editor’s Choice Award, this 1.5” ball of catnip is 100% natural and completely edible. Cats can bat it around, gnaw on it and carry it. This simple toy can provide hours of fun. It is safe for dogs as well.


6.) The Kitten Mitten is a glove with long, dangly fingers festooned with bells and pom-poms. The addition of catnip makes this toy irresistible. The Kitten Mitten is perfect for the cat owner who loves to interact with her pets.


7.) The Booda Mini Coil Catnip Toy for Cats comes on an elastic string that can be looped around any doorknob. Containing Booda’s own blend of ultra-premium catnip, this little toy is sure to delight any feline. This toy is 3” long and is made from cotton-blend yarns.


8.) The Yeeow! Sour Puss Lemon is a citrus-shaped cat toy that is filled with organic catnip. This bright yellow fruit is made in the U.S.A. and features a floppy, bite-able leaf at one end to amuse and entertain your kitty.


9.) The Petmate Catnip Cruise Ladybug Cat Toy is a cute little toy that dispenses a small amount of catnip as your cat plays with it. This toy needs no batteries. It comes with a free tube of premium catnip and it’s easily refillable for hours of kitty fun.


10.) The CFA Catnip Toys House Mouse is a plush rodent scented with catnip. Every cat needs a catnip mouse and this one is just the right size. This cute toy features charming details like little pink ears and paws.

There are so many different catnip cat toys on the market today. Savvy cat owners often buy several and cycle through them to keep their feline companions amused and entertained. This stimulation is especially important for indoor cats whose owners may be at work all day.

Even if the toys don’t have a refillable pouch or compartment, the catnip scent can be refreshed by storing the toy in a small container filled with catnip for a few days.

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6 Nutrients Your Dog Needs

Posted on August 25, 2010 by Dan, your cutestpetever admin

Given the number of commercial products on the market, it’s no wonder that deciding on the proper food for the family’s canine member can be a confusing issue. From puppy to full grown, the offerings come in a variety of packs, sacks and cans, all of which are designed to catch your eye, but do they meet your dog’s nutritional needs?

Depending on your dog’s age, size, temperament and degree of activity, nutritional levels can vary, but, when broken down to the top half dozen, the necessary nutrients are water, proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals.

WATER: Although it might not be thought of as a nutrient, there’s no doubt that fresh water tops the list. While a dog might survive dramatic losses of protein and fat, a 10 percent decrease in water can lead to serious illness. Wet foods are a source of some water, but access to adequate quantities of fresh water is essential, particularly during periods of high heat or if the dog is lactating.

PROTEINS: Proteins are justifiably called the “building blocks” of cells, tissues and organs and are essential to your dog’s growth and health. Meat is a good source of protein and can be given slightly cooked or raw. Fish and eggs also are good sources but must be cooked and should never be given as simple table scraps. Cheese and cottage cheese also are good and easily obtained sources of protein.

FATS: Fats are necessary as an energy source and hormone builders. Body insulation and internal organ protection rely on fats, and fatty acids that cannot by naturally produced by your dog need to be provided. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are important to diet as is linoleic acid.

CARBOHYDRATES: Carbohydrates also are energy builders that may be converted into fat for your dog, but often are found in less concentrations than proteins in commercial foods. Simple sugars as well as starch are included in this food group. Fiber is a type of carbohydrate that plays an important role in intestinal health and the control of diarrhea. Cooked grains are a good source of carbohydrates, but plain bread and potatoes, while perhaps enjoyed by your dog, should be avoided.

VITAMINS: Because your dog cannot produce its own, vitamins that are essential to natural metabolism need to be added to the diet, but in small amounts. In fact, if your dog is receiving a balanced diet, there might not be a need for a vitamin supplement unless a specific need is diagnosed by your veterinarian.

MINERALS: Bone meal and calcium carbonate are two of the more important minerals for your dog’s diet. Both work in conjunction with all the above nutrients in providing necessary structure of bones and teeth and regulating metabolism.

As to whether specific commercial foods provide the six necessary nutrients for your dog, a little homework, patience and careful reading of ingredients goes a long way. If you choose to brew your own, careful attention to a proper balance of the six, top nutrients will provide a formula that fits your dog. And, as always, consultation with your veterinarian is your best bet for your dog’s good health.

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