Category: For cats

Posted on by

Cold weather and your pet’s joints

cold weather and pets joints

Just like with humans, when temperatures dip, cold weather can affect a pet’s joints and cause joint stiffness.

It’s not exactly clear what causes increased joint stiffness during winter months, but there could be several reasons, which include:

Air pressure – a drop in air pressure causes tissues in your pet’s body to swell and make moving more difficult.

Rigid muscles – even in dogs who don’t suffer from joint stiffness, cold temperatures can cause muscles to become tense. For dogs with existing stiffness, this can be hard to manage.

Reduced exercise – freezing temperatures mean staying indoors where it’s warm and cosy is more likely. But dogs with joint stiffness need movement to stretch and warm up their muscles, as this helps to reduce the symptoms.

Support your pet’s joints in winter

In cold weather to help support your pet’s joints, there are some positive things you can do:

Get your pet moving

One of the most important things for dogs with joint stiffness is to exercise. They may not feel like it but getting them up and moving will help to warm up and strengthen your dog’s muscles and reduce stiffness in the joints. Aim to go on a short walk at least once, if not twice a day. If it’s too cold outside try to get your dog moving indoors, using an obstacle course, or hiding some treats around the home.

Weight management

Many pet owners think that during cold weather, pets need extra food to keep warm. However, this is not the case for most pets, especially if they are moving less due to the cold. It’s important to keep an eye on what your pet eats during colder months. Unwanted weight gain can add pressure to joints. If your pet is moving less, make sure they are not taking on more calories. If your pet gets treats, be sure to add them into their daily calorie intake.

Heating pads or blankets

Since the cold temperatures might be making it hard for your pooch to move, especially overnight, try to warm them up using a pet-safe heated blanket or heating pad for them to sleep on. The extra warmth may encourage your dog to get up and moving first thing in the morning. You could also place your pet’s bed closer to a radiator in the home, which may help.

Massage

Gently massaging your dog’s problem areas, like their knees or hips, may help to loosen stiff muscles and make it easier for them to move. Find a pet massage professional in your area or do some research on how to properly administer gentle massages at home. This will help to give your pet a little extra care if they are struggling.

Home adjustments

Use ramps in the home to help your pet get up to their favourite sleeping spot on furniture or to get up steps or into the car for dog walks. This will help to reduce injury from jumping up or down. You could also raise their food and water bowls if they are unable to bend down due to stiff joints.

Use Nutraquin+

Using Nutraquin+ daily will give your pet’s joints the extra support they need throughout the winter months. If your pet isn’t already taking a high-quality joint supplement, winter is a good time to start, to support their joints in cold weather.

Nutraquin+ is fast acting (4-7 days) and formulated using the purest ingredients that help aid and soothe stiff joints and support the natural systems that control inflammation in dogs, cats & horses.

Posted on by

Top tips to keep pets calm during the fireworks

Top tips to keep pets calm during the fireworks

Fireworks season is a stressful time for pets, with sporadic bangs going off, we share some top tips to keep pets calm during the fireworks.

With many events being held on different nights, fireworks season can last right up until New Year so it’s important to be prepared with our top tips to keep pets calm during the fireworks and help reduce any stress from the loud noises.

For pets that are affected by loud noises, they may display their anxiety in a number of ways, including shaking or hiding, vocalisation, ears pinned back, reduced appetite and some pets can become aggressive.

To help reduce stress, here are some top tips to keep pets calm during the fireworks:

Provide a safe space

Give your pet somewhere safe to go and hide should they become anxious from the loud bangs. This can be an enclosed crate, table or cupboard near the centre of the home, or where they have previously hidden. You could cover the sides and top to make it comfortable and even add some of your clothing that will smell familiar to them. Let them come and go as they please.

Stay calm yourself

One of our top tips to keep pets calm during the fireworks, is to try and stay calm yourself and don’t react to any loud bangs, as your pet will react to you. Try not to worry and don’t get angry with your pet or over fuss them, just reassure them gently and be as normal and routine as possible.

Keep pets indoors

Keep all pets indoors during the fireworks. For cats who like to go outside, make sure you place plenty of litter trays around the house, especially by usual exit points. Make sure your dog has had an opportunity to go to the toilet before it gets dark. Also, don’t walk your dog during the fireworks, take them out in the late afternoon if possible. If they get spooked by fireworks while out, they may run off.

Reduce the noise

Muffle the sounds of the fireworks outside, by closing the windows and curtain. Put the TV or radio on to drown out their sound, especially if animals are left home alone. If you do have to leave your pet alone during the fireworks, ask a friend of family member to check on them.

Distractions

Provide your pet with plenty of toys to distract them from the noise. Ignore the fireworks yourself and play with your pet, but don’t force them to play if they don’t seem interested and prefer to be left alone.

Stick to normal routines

Feed and walk your pet at the same time as normal, if possible. Any changes in their usual routine can lead to further stress or anxiety.

Comfort your pet

Sit close to your pet and stroke them to try and keep them calm. Physical contact could help to make them feel safe and reduce their anxiety. But don’t force them, if they prefer to go off on their own and hide, let them and just check on them now and again, to make sure they are ok.

Don’t punish your pet

If they misbehave or do something out of the ordinary due to stress, don’t punish them. This is a reaction to how they feel in a situation and shouting at them could lead to further stress.

Prepare in advance

If possible, find out when firework events will be taking place in your area so you can plan ahead. Speak to neighbours and ask if they will be letting them off in their gardens. Make them aware that you have an anxious pet. Being prepared could lead to a less stressful evening for you and your pet.

Use a natural calming support

Ask your vet about Nutracalm, which is specially formulated to calm pets fast, without any sedative effect. Nutracalm is recommended by hundreds of vets throughout the UK & Ireland has been designed to aid a quick natural response once taken, with results often evident within 1 hour of taking the capsule.

 

 

Posted on by

Cleaning cat teeth

Cleaning cat teeth

Cleaning cat teeth and maintaining good oral health is likely to improve the quality of their life.

Cleaning cat teeth from an early age can help to prevent any problems. Cats are good at hiding signs of discomfort and pain and it can be difficult as their owner to know there is even a problem with their teeth.

A healthy cat’s teeth should be clean, white and free of any chipping. Their gums shouldn’t have any sores or lesions and should be pink and healthy without any redness, swelling or bleeding.

Signs of cat teeth problems include:

  • Reduced grooming activity
  • Discoloured teeth/ plaque & tartar build-up
  • Bad breath
  • Drooling
  • Discomfort
  • Pawing at mouth
  • Bleeding gums
  • Reduced appetite or weight loss

Kittens have 26 baby teeth, which are then replaced by 30 adult teeth by the age of six months. Cats use their teeth for catching prey and chewing food, as well as to defend themselves against other cats.

How to clean cat teeth

Brushing your cat’s teeth is a great way to avoid dental disease. Ideally you should introduce dental care from a young age, to get them used to having their teeth touched.

Here are some tips on how to clean cat teeth:

  • Ask your vet for advice on how to brush your cat’s teeth correctly.
  • Buy a specialised toothpaste for your cat. Never use human toothpaste.
  • Begin by putting your cat’s toothpaste on your finger and offering it to them to lick.
  • Be sure to buy a toothbrush that is designed for cats.
  • Choose a time of day you can stick to in order to make teeth brushing a part of your cat’s normal routine. Make sure you are calm and comfortable.
  • Slowly and gently pull back your cat’s lips and touch their teeth with the toothbrush, initially before soothing your cat. Repeat this daily for several days before starting to brush their teeth. Only start brushing when they are comfortable.
  • To brush their teeth, apply the bristles to the teeth at a 45-degree angle, reaching both the tooth surface and just beneath the gum margin.

Natural cat teeth plaque remover

Consider using a like Nutraplaque which is a completely natural sprinkle capsule that provides an advanced double action formula to help aid oral health and hygiene by systematically working against bad breath, tartar and plaque for healthy teeth and gums.

Nutraplaque is recommended by thousands of vets throughout the UK and Ireland as advanced support for healthy teeth, gums and breath odour in dogs and cats.

 

 

 

 

Posted on by

How to calm a scared cat

scared cat

A scared cat is often hard to spot as cats are notoriously independent and it can be difficult to tell that something is wrong with them.

Depending on their environment cats can become scared or fearful due to a number of reasons. If you have a scared cat it can be worrying for you as their owner, but it’s important to understand your pet’s behaviour and reasons behind their fear. Although each cat is different, they tend to exhibit some tell-tale behaviours when they are scared or stressed.

There can be many reasons for your cat to be scared or nervous, which include:

  • New or unfamiliar people
  • Other cats
  • Loud noises/fireworks
  • Dogs or other predators
  • Changes to or in their environment

Signs of a scared cat can be freezing in place, running away, hiding, hissing or snarling, or arching their back and puffing their fur. If they are particularly scared or anxious, they also become aggressive and scratch or bite.

If you have a scared or anxious cat, they could develop a urinary tract problem, which can develop due to stress and cause pain, blood in the urine or even lead to blockages in the bladder.

Tips to help to calm a scared cat:

Find out what’s causing the fear

Try to find out the reason behind your cat’s fear. This could help with how to handle it. Every cat is different, and anything could be making your cat nervous. For some fears the signs will be obvious, but for others it could be harder to identify.

Give a scared cat space

If your cat seems scared or anxious leave them be and give them space. Following your cat around could lead to further stress. Let them come to you if they want to. Create a safe one for them to go to should they need it.

Scratching posts

Make sure you have plenty of these around the home for your cat to use. This will help your cat to relieve stress and stop them from scratching at furniture or carpets.

Always stay calm

Cats will often pick up if you’re afraid or stressed, so trying to stay calm is really important. If they are showing signs of stress, if you stay calm his will help them feel more at ease.

Try to stick to routines

Most cats love routine as it means they can predict what’s going to happen next. If possible, be sure to feed them and let them out at the same time each day.

Introduce new things slowly

Sometimes change can scare your cat, especially if they aren’t prepared and they find something new in the home which they feel they can’t get away from. If you’re making any changes to your home, try to make it a gradual change if possible. Always make sure your cat has somewhere they can go to get away from new things if they are feeling scared.

Avoid or reduce the things that scare them

If it’s possible to avoid or reduce the cause of their fears, this will often help to stop their fear getting worse. If your cat is scared of something they come across while outside, it might be best to keep them indoors for part of the day. They might even be happier staying at home all the time, especially if this means you can keep them from what is scaring them. If they seem to be more stressed indoors, make sure they have an easy way to get in and out as they choose.

Try a calming supplement

Nutracalm is specially formulated to naturally calm anxious and nervous cats and help to reduce unwanted and unruly behaviour. Nutracalm is a fast-acting natural calming supplement and has been designed to aid a quick natural response once taken.

If you are looking for calming tablets for nervous cats, then Nutracalm is highly recommended by vets throughout the UK and Ireland.

If you are worried about your cat and their behaviour, you should consult your vet, who is best placed to offer advice with regards to your pet’s health.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Posted on by

Ascophyllum nodosum for dogs and cats

Ascophyllum nodosum for dogs and cats

Ascophyllum nodosum is commonly used in dental care for dogs and cats.

Seaweed is good for the teeth due to an enzyme known as Bacillus licheniformis. The enzyme works to protect against tooth decay by stripping bacteria away from plaque.

Ascophyllum nodosum is a large, common cold-water seaweed or brown alga in the Fucaceae family and is the only species in the genus Ascophyllum. It grows as a seaweed in the north Atlantic Ocean and is also know in localities as feamainn bhui, rockweed, Norwegian kelp, knotted kelp, knotted wrack or egg wrack.

Seaweed for dogs and cats

Adding a seaweed supplement to your pet’s dinner each night can help to reduce the amount of plaque that can build up on their teeth. Seaweed contains Ascophyllum nodosum; a species of kelp which helps to keep your pet’s teeth clean and reduce bad breath in a natural way.

Ascophyllum nodosum is a special source of brown seaweed selected for its ability to reduce plaque, tartar and bad breath. It contains bio-actives such as Fucoidans and Polyphenols which are systemically absorbed into the body tissues and are clinically proven to reduce oral plaque and improve gum and teeth health.

Seaweed is one of the most nutrient-dense and environmentally sustainable crops on the planet. In addition to being one of the richest sources of minerals and protein (amino acids), seaweed also possesses a range of health benefits including anti-inflammatory activity and can produce thicker shinier coats, enhanced immunity and energy, as well as improved digestion.

Seaweeds are also a great source of Omega-3 fatty acids, including a linolenic acid (an Omega-3 fatty acid that dogs need).

If you’re looking for a Ascophyllum nodosum supplement for dogs and cats, Nutraplaque is recommended by thousands of vets throughout the UK & Ireland. The specially selected Norwegian Seaweed in Nutraplaque has been shown to reduce plaque by up to 35% after the first 8 weeks.

Nutraplaque is a completely natural product that provides an advanced double action formula to help aid oral health and hygiene by systemically working against bad breath, tartar and plaque for healthy teeth and gums.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Posted on by

Common signs your pet needs oral health support

Common signs your pet needs oral health support

There are some common signs your pet needs oral health support and many animals are at a higher risk of dental problems as they age.

Caring for your pet’s teeth and gums isn’t that different from looking after your own oral health and by following the common signs your pet needs oral health support can help. By the age of three, 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have developed some form of periodontal disease.

Maintaining your pet’s dental care is necessary to provide optimum health and quality of life. Common signs your pet needs oral health support include:

Bad breath

If you dog or cat’s breath smells particularly bad, this could be a sign that they have gum disease, which needs treating. Untreated gum disease can damage your pet’s teeth and jaws over time and is one of the major causes of tooth loss. Infections caused by gum disease have been linked with diseases of the heart, liver and kidneys, so you should talk to your vet if you notice any unusual odours.

Changes in eating habits

Any sudden change in your pet’s appetite is a cause for concern, particularly when they don’t want to eat their regular food. Along with wider health concerns, symptoms of gum disease might cause a dog or cat to stop eating or chewing.

If there has been no change to your pet’s diet, you should speak to your vet so they can rule out other causes of concern.

Yellow or brown teeth

If you notice yellow or brown stains on your pet’s teeth, especially around the gums, there is a good chance this is dental plaque. Brushing your dog or cat’s teeth with special toothpaste and adding a dental supplement to their food can help to prevent the build-up of plaque.

Existing plaque or tartar may need to be carefully removed by a vet to reduce the risk of your pet getting tooth decay.

Swollen or bleeding gums

Inflamed or bleeding gums can be a sign that your pet has gum disease or another infection, which can cause discomfort.

Excessive drooling

For some dog owners, drool is just a part of life and some breeds of dogs naturally drool more than others. However, if your dog starts drooling more than normal it could mean they have a health problem, that’s causing them to produce more saliva or is preventing them from swallowing saliva like normal.

This could indicate a variety of dental problems, including gum disease, loose teeth or a dental abscess caused by bacteria or an injury.

Pawing at their mouth

Is your dog or cat scratching constantly licking parts of their mouth, this could be a sign of teething or a more serious issue like dental pain. If your pet will let you, check their teeth and gums for anything that could be bothering them, such as bits of food or other things they might have been chewing.

 

If you are worried about your pet oral health teeth, speak to your vet as they are best placed to monitor your pet’s health and can offer advice depending on their needs.

Nutraplaque is an advanced support for healthy teeth, gums and breath odour. Nutraplaque is a 100% natural product that provides an advanced double action formula to help aid oral health and hygiene by systemically working against bad breath, tartar & plaque for healthy teeth and gums.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Posted on by

Top tips to help maintain healthy teeth and gums in pets

healthy teeth and gums in pets

Maintaining healthy teeth and gums in pets is key to help with their overall general health.

Healthy teeth and gums in pets is important as poor dental care doesn’t just affect your pet’s mouth, the bacteria generated by gum disease could eventually enter their bloodstream and potentially damage their heart liver or kidneys.

When your dog or cat has healthy teeth and gums, they can get the most out of their food, crunching every delicious mouthful as they go, but if their teeth hurt, they’ll soon go off their meals and their metabolism will suffer.

Your pet’s teeth have a lot of work to do, dogs use their mouths for more than just eating, they use them to play, explore and taste a lot of their surroundings too. If your dog’s teeth aren’t properly cared for, it can cause problems.

Some positive things you can do to maintain healthy teeth and gums in pets include:

Teeth brushing

Brushing your pet’s teeth regularly is the best way to keep their teeth clean and healthy. Start from an early age to get them used to a routine. Cleaning dogs teeth is an important part of maintaining your pet’s dental care to help provide optimum health and quality of life.

Toys

You can buy your dog toys that are designed to clean your dog’s teeth as they chew on them. Be careful not to get toys that are too small and can be swallowed and get caught in your dog’s throat.

Dental chews

Dental chews or treats and specialist foods can also help to keep your pet’s mouth healthy. Be careful not to feed them too many of these, include them in their daily calorie intake to prevent any unwanted weight gain.

Treats

Don’t feed them too many sugary treats, as this can cause more bacteria to build up on your pet’s teeth.

Bones

Don’t feed your dog bones as these can damage their teeth. Bones can also break into splinters which can damage their gums and throat.

Visit your vet

Regular vet visits can allow them to keep an eye on your pet’s oral health, as well as other health issues that may arise.

Natural teeth plaque remover

Consider using a natural supplement like Nutraplaque which is a completely natural product that provides an advanced double action formula to help aid oral health and hygiene by systematically working against bad breath, tartar and plaque for healthy teeth and gums.

Nutraplaque is recommended by thousands of vets throughout the UK and Ireland as advanced support for healthy teeth, gums and breath odour in dogs and cats.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Posted on by

Top tips for pet owners at Easter

Top tips for pet owners at Easter

Easter can be a fun and exciting time, but we share some top tips for pet owners at Easter to help care for four-legged friends.

Whether you’re enjoying nice long walks with your dog or tucking into your favourite chocolate egg, our top tips for pet owners at Easter help to highlight some hazards for pets that can come at this time of year.

Digestive upset is a common reason for pet owners to take their pets to the vets and at Easter it can be more prevalent due to the number of yummy treats and chocolate that can be in the home. Many pet owners see their pet as one of the family and like to include them in the celebrations or festivities. However, some human foods that we enjoy at this time of year and colourful flowers can give our pets sensitive tummies and may lead to an unwanted trip to the vets.

To help keep your pets healthy and safe, we highlight some hazards and top tips for pet owners at Easter:

Chocolate

Chocolate contains a powerful stimulant called theobromine that pets can’t cope with, so even the smallest amount is not recommended. Try to keep all chocolate eggs and treats out of reach from your pets and let other family members know not to feed them to your pet. Keep some of your dog or cat’s favourite treat to hand while you are enjoying your Easter egg to ensure they don’t beg or feel left out.

Hot Cross Buns

This yummy treat is synonymous with Easter and can contain raisins, currants or sultanas. These are all foods that are toxic to cats and dogs and could cause tummy upsets and for your pet to feel unwell. Be sure to keep these out of reach from your pet, especially if they are left alone in the house – be sure they are all hidden away.

Easter grass

Colourful grasses are often used to line Easter baskets for Easter egg hunts or decoration. These usually contain plastic materials, which can be harmful to pets if swallowed. Try using alternatives like tissue paper instead to line your basket and keep all decorations out of reach from pets.

Easter plants

Flowers and plants that add some colour to our homes or gardens at this time of year, such as daffodils and lilies can be toxic to our pets. Lilies contains unknown toxins that if ingested by cats can cause tummy upsets, even a small amount can result in kidney failure. Daffodils contain poisonous alkaloids that can cause vomiting, diarrhoea and excessive salivation in pets. The bulbs are the most dangerous part.

Spring bulbs

All spring bulbs and often what grows out of them are poisonous to pets. Dogs are most likely to be affects as they can be curious when in the garden and root them up, especially when freshly planted in autumn or coming into flower in spring.

Human sweets

Don’t feed your pet any human sweets or sweet treats, especially those that say they are sugar free as they may contain xylitol, which is a synthetic sweetener which is toxic to cats and dogs.

Roast dinner

Many of us will sit down to enjoy a roast dinner this Easter, but it’s important to remember not to feed your pet scraps from the dinner table. Scraps of fatty pork or ham can lead to upset tummies for our pets. Be sure to make other family members aware they should not feed table scraps to your cat or dog. Give your pet some yummy treats to enjoy whilst you sit down for your dinner to stop them from begging.

 

If you are worried that your pet may have eaten something they shouldn’t, consult your vet straight away. Your vet will be able to advise the best course of action dependant on what your pet has eaten or ingested.

If your pet has a sensitive tummy and is prone to eating things they shouldn’t, ask your vet about Nutrabio, which is specifically formulated to aid healthy digestive function in dogs and cats.

Posted on by

Common signs your pet needs liver health support

your pet needs liver health support

Maintaining good liver health in pets is important to their general health and identifying common signs your pet needs liver health support can help.

As an owner, knowing the common signs your pet needs liver health support is important as the liver plays an important role in the body. It has a wide variety of functions including filtering the blood from the digestive tract, before passing it to the rest of the body. It also detoxifies chemicals and metabolises whilst supporting the liver when it’s processing medication.

The liver also detoxifies chemicals and metabolises to support itself when processing medication. Other essential functions include:

  • The liver makes nutrients and controls their release into the body
  • It produces plasma proteins and blood clotting factors
  • The liver stores vitamins A, D, K and B12, as well as the minerals iron and copper and releases them when needed.
  • It breaks down medications and exits toxic substances from the body.

Common signs your pet needs liver health support include:

  • Loss of appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Jaundice (yellowing of skin)
  • Increased thirst
  • Vomiting or diarrhoea
  • Changes in behaviour
  • Excessive drooling
  • Lack of energy or depression

The liver is very good at repairing itself, so if the problems is treatable, the liver will usually be able to recover and start working again. Treatment may depend on the type of liver problem and severity.

Natural supplements for liver health

If you notice some common signs your pet needs liver health support, speak to your vet who is best placed to offer advice. Ask your vet for more information on how Nutramarin+ can help aid your pet’s liver health.

Nutramarin+ provides triple action support for healthy liver function, which helps to naturally cleanse the liver. Nutramarin+ is recommended by thousands of vets throughout the UK and Ireland.

Posted on by

Common signs your pet needs kidney health support

your pet needs kidney health support

If your pet needs kidney health support, it could be vital for their general health and wellbeing, as the kidneys play an important role.

Maintaining good renal health is vital for an animal’s general health and well-being especially as they get older. The kidneys play an important role in an animal’s body, if your pet needs kidney support it’s important to speak to your vet.

The kidneys carry out many important tasks, including helping to balance certain substances in the blood and filter out the body’s waste as urine.

Common signs that your pet needs kidney health support include:

Urinating more than normal

Damaged kidneys struggle to manage the levels of water in your pet’s body. This means they will urinate more often and have more water in their urine making it light in colour or almost clear.

Drinking more water

Your pet may drink more to make up for how much water they are losing during urination

Looking generally unwell

As their kidneys are struggling to get rid of toxins from the body, these can build up and make your pet feel very unwell and might cause them to be actually sick.

Loss of appetite

Your pet may be off their food, due to feeling unwell so not eat as much.

Losing weight

You may notice that your pet is losing weight, this could be due to them not eating as much.

Feeling tired and generally unhappy

Your pet may appear more lethargic and seem irritable due to feeling unwell and being uncomfortable.

 

If your pet is showing any of the above signs, be sure to speak to your vet as they could be caused by other health related issues and your vet is best placed to monitor your pet’s health.

Nutraren has been developed to aid kidney health and has been formulated using scientifically proven ingredients that support renal health in an easy to administer high strength capsule. Nutraren is recommended by thousands of vets throughout the UK and Ireland and is available to purchase over the counter at all good veterinary practices.

 

Posted on by

What is Kaolin for dogs and cats?

Kaolin for dogs and cats

Kaolin for dogs and cats is a key natural ingredient to support digestive health.

Maintaining healthy digestive function helps your pet to live a healthy and happy life. As a pet owner it is important to understand how to support and maintain healthy digestive function for your cat or dog to prevent unwanted trips to the vet. Dogs are especially curious and can pick up objects they shouldn’t.

Kaolin is a type of clay found in nature although can also be made in a laboratory. It may be useful for cases where a pets stools become very loose as it can help pets by absorbing water to firm up their loose stools. By reducing the speed of passage through the gut, Kaolin helps with the absorption of nutrients and water, which are important to aid the gut. It can help to reduce the quantity of loose stools and improve the consistence of the faeces, which in turn reduces the risk of dehydration.

Kaolin for dogs and cats acts as an absorbent which works by binding toxins and removing them from the gut.

Kaolin is used in many probiotic supplements for dogs and cats to help firm up their stools, in cases of mild to moderate or non-infectious diarrhoea. It is often used in combination with other natural ingredients such as probiotics, prebiotics and Sweet Basil Extract to support digestive balance in dogs and cats.

If you are looking for Kaolin for dogs and cats, Nutrabio is recommended by thousands of vets throughout the UK and Ireland.

Nutrabio uses a unique combination of proven natural ingredients to help support digestive balance. This is achieved by increasing the number of beneficial good bacteria, whilst binding the toxins, which are then passes safely through the gut.

If you are worried about your pet’s digestive health, speak to your vet who is best placed to offer advice.

 

 

Posted on by

Chitosan for dogs and cats

Chitosan for dogs and cats

Chitosan for dogs and cats is recommended by vets to support kidney function. It binds with the phosphorus in the body, limiting its absorption and supporting healthy renal function.

Chitosan is a sugar that cannot be found naturally in foods but is obtained from the hard-outer skeleton of shellfish, including crab, lobster and shrimp.

Chitosan from Icelandic shrimp shells bind toxins in the digestive tract which helps to support kidney loading. It has been used by some vets to chelate fat with the apparent benefit of reducing tendencies to pancreatitis. It has recently been recommended to slow the progression of chronic renal problems in dogs and cats by decreasing the absorption phosphorus.

Kidneys play and important role including filtering waste products, controlling osmolality and regulating blood pressure. The flow of blood to the kidneys is important, as kidneys filter blood, remove waste and extra water to make urine.

When kidneys are not functioning properly, toxins build up in the blood and pets can become ill and need veterinary help. Kidney function in pets is known to decline with age, and this can be associated with a decrease in renal Omega-3s and an increase in inflammation. Kidney failure is pets is relatively common but feeding them a good quality diet and providing them with a constant supply of fresh clean water will help to support their kidneys.

Chitosan supplements

If you are looking for Chitosan for dogs and cats, Nutraren is recommended by thousands of vets throughout the UK and Ireland. Nutraren’s synergistic combination of natural ingredients including high purity Omega-3, aid renal function, bind toxins and support an animal’s quality of life.

Nutraren helps to bind toxins in the gut which aids healthy blood flow into the kidneys where a stable balance of body chemicals can be achieved and waste products and excess fluid from the body are removed.

If you are worried about your pet’s health, speak to your vet as they are best placed to offer the correct advice.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Posted on by

Calcium for dogs and cats

Calcium for dogs and cats

Calcium for dogs and cats is an essential mineral that supports an animal’s healthy kidney function, teeth and bone health and helps their blood to clot properly.

Derived from the red seaweed Lithothamnium calcareum with its porous honeycomb structure, calcium for dogs and cats has exceptional calcium bioavailability and is proven to help support renal function.

Calcium from seaweed is a vet recommended choice because it provides other beneficial minerals, primarily magnesium, but also small amounts of zinc, potassium, iodine and selenium. Calcium helps a dog’s muscles to lengthen and contract and plays and important part in essential processes in an animal’s cells.

Calcium is often used alongside Omega 3s, Chitosan and Vitamin E to support renal health. An animal’s kidneys play an important role including filtering waste products, controlling osmolality and regulating blood pressure. The kidneys also keep both phosphate and calcium at healthy levels.

Kidney health in dogs & cats

Maintaining good renal health is vital for an animal’s general health and well-being especially as they get older. The kidneys play an important role in an animal’s body. They carry out many important tasks, including helping to balance certain substances in the blood and filter out the body’s waste as urine.

Kidney function in pets is known to decline with age, and this can be associated with a decrease in renal Omega-3s and an increase in inflammation. Kidney failure is pets is relatively common but feeding them a good quality diet and providing them with a constant supply of fresh clean water will help to support their kidneys.

Natural supplements

If you’re looking for calcium for dogs and cats, Nutraren is recommended by thousands of vets throughout the UK and Ireland. Nutraren’s synergistic combination of natural ingredients including high purity Omega-3s, aids renal function, bind toxins and supports an animal’s quality of life.

If you are worried about your pet’s kidney health or health and wellbeing in general, speak to your vet who is best placed to offer the best possible advice and care.

 

 

 

Posted on by

Top tips to maintain kidney health in pets

kidney health in pets

Maintaining good kidney health in pets is vital for their general health and wellbeing, especially as they get older.

Kidney health in pets is known to decline with age, and this can be associated with a decrease in renal Omega-3s and an increase in inflammation. Kidney failure in pets is relatively common but feeding them a good quality diet and providing them with a constant supply of fresh clean water will help to support their kidneys.

Kidneys carry out many important tasks in your pet’s body. Kidneys help to balance certain substances in the blood and filter out the body’s waste as urine. They maintain normal concentrations of salt and water in the body. They also help to control blood pressure, aid in calcium metabolism and sustain phosphorus levels.

Signs of kidney problems in pets can include:

  • Urinating more often and urine will usually be very diluted
  • Increased drinking to replace fluids
  • Nausea and vomiting due to build-up of toxins
  • Retching or going off food
  • Tiredness and lethargy
  • Pale gums
  • Mouth ulcers
  • Fragile weak bones

To help maintain kidney health in pets, there are some positive things you can do, which include:

Water intake

Make sure your pet has access to fresh and clean water on a regular basis. Water is essential for all animals but especially important to maintain kidney health in pets.

Protein management

Too high a protein content can lead to an accumulation of toxic products within the blood. However, lowering the protein levels too far can lead to problems. The best diets will contain proteins of a high biological value, ensuring there are no deficiencies in essential
amino acids.

Reduce sodium content

High sodium levels can lead to hypertension, however care must be taken as reducing the levels too far can be a contributing factor in metabolic acidosis and it can affect palatability.

Good fibre levels

Fibre is important to help gastrointestinal motility.

Reduce stress for kidney health in pets

Keep your pet calm where possible as when a pet is stressed, they may eat or drink less. Reduced water intake is detrimental to the kidneys.

Clean teeth

Periodontal disease has been shown to increase a dog’s risk of developing renal failure. Regular teeth brushing can help to prevent this.

Reduce toxins

Poisons is a leading problem for renal health. Understanding what substances and foods are unsafe for your pet can keep them safe from poisoning. For example, chocolate, grapes and raisins or antifreeze and some cleaning products.

Omega 3s for dogs and cats

A diet high in Omega 3 fatty acids can help. High purity Omega 3s from fish oil can have beneficial effects on supporting the animal’s natural systems that control inflammation and supporting a better quality of life.

Reduce phosphate content

Reducing the phosphate content in the diet can help in reducing damage to kidneys and has been linked to extending life, especially in cats.

Regular monitoring

Regular vet visits are important to monitor our pet’s health and your vet is best placed to offer the best advice. Always take on your vet’s advice. If you are worried about your pet’s health or anything above, consult your vet who is best placed to offer advice dependent on their age and breed.

Natural supplement for kidney health in pets

If you are looking for a natural supplement to support kidney health in pets, Nutraren is recommended by vets throughout the UK & Ireland. Nutraren’s synergistic combination of natural scientifically proven ingredients including high purity Omega-3s, aid renal function, bind toxins in the gut and support an animal’s quality of life.

 

 

 

Posted on by

N-Acetyl D-Glucosamine for dogs and cats

N-Acetyl D-Glucosamine for dogs and cats

N-Acetyl D-Glucosamine for dogs and cats is a key ingredient for urinary tract health.

N-Acetyl D-Glucosamine offers structural support to the bladder lining acting as a natural barrier to protect the underlying urinary tract layers.

It is an amide derivative of the monosaccharide glucose. It is a secondary amide between glucosamine and acetic acid. N-Acetyl D-glucosamine is a chemical that comes from the outer shells of shellfish, but it can also be made in a lab. It’s not to be confused with other forms of glucosamine such as glucosamine hydrochloride or glucosamine sulphate as they may not have the same benefits to your pet.

N-Acetyl D-Glucosamine has been research specifically for urinary tract health in cats. Research has established that cats who are prone to cystitis have low levels of glucosamine in the blood plasma and urine.

N-Acetyl D-Glucosamine for urinary tract health in cats and dogs

Urinary tract health in dogs and cats is a common reason for pet owners to visit the vets, but its cause if often unclear. However, changes in their routine or environment can lead to stress which is recognised as a common cause. Many vets now use a more holistic approach to aiding urinary tract health by incorporating the use of dietary, behavioural and nutraceutical products.

A large proportion of the bladder’s protective layer is made up of Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). These GAGs prevent the bladder walls from the irritating effects of urine and nutritional supplementation. With N-Acetyl D-Glucosamine strengthens this GAG layer and reduces discomfort. The addition of the unique phyto-extract, Quercetin, is designed to support the cat’s natural systems that control inflammation.

If you are looking for a N-Acetyl D-Glucosamine supplement for cats and dogs, Nutracys+ is recommended by thousands of vets throughout the UK and Ireland.

Nutracys+ has been developed by vets using a unique combination of scientifically proven natural ingredients. Nutracys+ contains a unique triple action combination of N-Acetyl D-Glucosamine, Quercetin and L-Trytophan to aid healthy urinary tract function in cats and dogs.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Posted on by

Caring for pets in a heatwave

Caring for pets in a heatwave

It’s always lovely to be able to enjoy more time outside with pets. However, caring for pets in a heatwave is important to ensure they stay happy and healthy in the sun.

During the summer months, temperatures can reach the 30s and if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your pet. Caring for pets during a heatwave can help prevent unnecessary trips to the vets.

To help care for your pet in hot weather, here are some top tips:

Hot cars

Never leave you pet alone in a car in hot weather. Even for short periods of time, car temperatures can rise fast in the sun and cause serious health problems for pets.

Sunburn

Just like us pets can get sunburnt if they spend too much time in the sun. Pets with light skin and short or thin hair, such as white cats are more susceptible to sensitive skin from the sun. Try to limit the amount of time your pet spends in the sun. You could also use sun cream that is specially formulated for pets.

Protect paws

Be sure to protect your pet’s paws from hot surfaces during the summer. Pavements and surfaces can get hot in high temperatures and could burn your pet’s paws.

Offer shade

Make sure your pet has access to plenty of shade, out of the sun. You could even set up a small paddling pool in your garden to keep your dog cool.

Fresh water

Make sure your pets have access to fresh drinking water. You could put some ice cubes in their water bowl to help keep it cool. If you take your dog for a walk, take extra drinking water for them.

Exercise

Your dog still needs exercise, even on hotter days. Walk them early in the morning or late at night to avoid the hottest times of the day.

 

If you are worried about your pet’s health during hot weather, contact your vet who is best placed to offer advice on caring for pets in a heatwave.

 

 

 

Posted on by

Quercetin for dogs and cats

Quercetin for dogs and cats

Quercetin for dogs and cats is often teamed up with other natural ingredients such as L-Tryptophan and N-Acetyl D-Glucosamine as a triple action support for urinary tract health in pets.

Quercetin is a plant pigment (flavonoid) which is found in many plants and foods, such as green tea, apples, berries, Ginkgo Biloba and St John’s Wart.

Quercetin is the most abundant dietary flavonoid and has been linked to improved exercise performance and reduced inflammation, blood pressure and blood sugar levels.

It is a naturally occurring antioxidant and recent studies have shown Quercetin supports the body’s natural anti-inflammatory processes and is particularly beneficial to supporting urinary tract health in dogs and cats.

Quercetin also works very well for pet allergy symptoms. It suppresses the release of histamine, which is what causes much of the inflammation, redness and irritation caused by pet allergies.

When to use Quercetin for dogs and cats?

Urinary tract health is a common reason for pet owners to visit the vets. There could be several reasons why your cat or dog may need support maintaining healthy urinary tract function. Stress is one of the most common reasons.

Poor urinary tract health is more common in cats as changes in their routine or environment could lead to bladder problems from stress or other cats in the neighbourhood.

There are many reasons why your cat could be stressed, which include: changes to their indoor environment, territorial problems, unfamiliar noises or cattery visits. These are just some of the reasons why your cat will need support maintaining a healthy bladder.

Natural Quercetin supplements

If you’re looking for a Quercetin supplement for pets, Nutracys+ is recommended by thousands of vets throughout the UK and Ireland. Nutracys+ is specifically formulated to provide high strength, triple action support with the added benefit of reducing stress and anxiety.

Nutracys+ contains the unique triple action combinations of N-Acetyl D Glucosamine, Quercetin and L-Tryptophan which are beneficial for supporting normal urinary tract function whilst reducing stress and anxiety.

 

 

 

Posted on by

Sweet Basil Extract for dogs and cats

sweet basil extract for dogs and cats

Sweet Basil Extract for dogs and cats is a palatable ingredient that has several important effects on gastrointestinal health and digestive balance.

Basil is a herb which is native to tropical regions from central Africa to southeast Asia. There are many varieties of basil, as well as several related species or hybrids. The type used commonly as a flavour is called Sweet Basil.

Part of the plant that grows above the ground is commonly used to make medicine. It is commonly used for tummy problems such as spasms, loss of appetite, intestinal gas, diarrhoea and constipation. Basil also helps to prevent cellular damage, can calm your anxious dog and ease arthritis pain.

Unique to Nutrabio, Sweet Basil Extract is a palatable ingredient that has several important effects on gastrointestinal health and digestive balance.

Sweet basil extract for digestive health

Sweet Basil fortifies the digestive and nervous system and can be a good remedy in human healthcare for headaches and insomnia. The Eugenol present in the leaves ensures anti-inflammatory action in the digestive tract. Sweet Basil helps balance acid within the body and restores the body’s pH level.

Sweet Basil extract for dogs is an excellent source of Vitamin K, Magnesium, Iron, Vitamin A and Vitamin C. It is also a good source of calcium and Omega 3 fatty acids.

Sweet Basil extract is often used with dog probiotics and prebiotics to support a pet’s digestive health. If you are looking for a Sweet Basil probiotic supplement for dogs and cats, Nutrabio is recommended by thousands of vets throughout the UK and Ireland.

Nutrabio is a naturally formulated paste for dogs and cats to maintain normal digestive function. It has been developed with a high strength composition of probiotic bacteria, prebiotics, Sweet Basil and Kaolin which combine to help normalise digestive function.

 

Posted on by

Reduce cat separation anxiety when lockdown ends

cat separation anxiety

Although they often seem independent, cat separation anxiety is cause for concern for many owners, especially following lockdowns.

During the COVID-19 crisis, pet owners have spent lots of time with their feline friends, which can lead of the development of cat separation anxiety after being around their owners 24/7.

Now that lockdown restrictions have been relaxed, many cat owners will be returning to work and it’s important to ensure the process is stress free for you and your cat.

There are some common signs of cat separation anxiety, but these may differ from cat to cat, and can include:

  • Your cat may spray around the house, which is a common sign of stress
  • They may scratch furniture or at carpets
  • Your cat may constantly want attention and meow if you’re not giving them enough attention
  • Stressed cats may also over groom or under groom
  • Urinating outside their litter tray and around the house can also be a sign of stress

If you are worried about your cat, be sure to speak to your vet as some symptoms of stress may be a sign for other health problems, such as urinary tract problems.

Tips to help reduce cat separation anxiety

To help your cat we share some tips for when you return to work after lockdown:

Give your cat some space

Don’t over handle your cat while you are at home or follow them around the house to pick them up as this can lead to stress. Take time away from your cat to allow them to get used to you not being around.

Create safe spaces

Make sure your cat has a den or a safe place to retreat to for some quiet time. Create high places for them to use – for multiple cat households make sure there is more than one.

Make gradual adjustments

To help reduce cat separation anxiety, gradually adjust your routine to how it would be when you go back to work, such as feeding times etc.

Distractions

Prevent boredom in house cats especially by providing toys and scratching posts to keep your cat occupied whilst you’re out. Most cats tend to spend their time sleeping, but if they cannot get outside, they may become bored and anxious.

Restrict attention

Don’t over handle your cat or pay them too much attention. This will help to get them used to when you’re not there. Also, over handling and following them around to pick them up could lead to stress.

Don’t punish them

Try not to punish your cat if they scratch at furniture or urinate somewhere other than their litter tray. This could be a sign of stress and if you punish them, it may lead to further anxiety.

Consider natural supplements

Using a natural supplement such as Nutracalm could naturally calm your cat as well as reducing any unwanted behaviour. Nutracalm is a fast-acting supplement with calming properties and is recommended by thousands of vets throughout the UK and Ireland.

Nutracys+ has been specifically formulated to provide high strength, triple action support for healthy urinary tract function for cats and dogs with the added benefit of reducing stress and anxiety.

Always consult your vet if you are concerned about your cat’s health or behaviour. They will be able to offer the best advice dependant on your cat’s age and health needs.

 

Posted on by

Silybin for dogs and cats

Silybin for dogs and cats

Silybin for dogs and cats is a special bioavailable complexed form of milk thistle extract, which has proven bioactive properties.

Silybin works as a high potency antioxidant within the liver and supports the natural systems that control inflammation.

Silybin also known as Silibinin is the major active constituent of Silymarin, a standardised extract of Milk Thistle seeds, containing a mixture of flavonolignans consisting of Silybin, Isosilibinin, Silicristin, Silidanin, and others.

Milk Thistle is a flower, specifically a member of the aster family. Its seeds and roots have been used for an assortment of medical purposes for thousands of years. Three biochemicals of interest have been isolated from the Milk Thistle: Silychristine, Silydanin, and Silybin and is the most powerful of them all. The mixture of these three substances is called Silymarin.

Milk Thistle contains an active ingredient called ‘Silymarin’ which is a chemical extracted from its seeds. It is an antioxidant and also supports the natural systems that control inflammation, making it a useful ingredients for joints and supporting the liver.

Specifically, silymarin and other related compounds stimulate new cell production, which makes milk thistle for dogs and cats is a very effective herb to support healthy liver function.

Silybin can be teamed up with other key ingredients such as SAMe and Turmeric extract (Curcumin) in liver health supplements for pets. If you are looking for Silybin for dogs and cats, Nutramarin+ is recommended by thousands of vets throughout the UK.

Nutramarin+ is a high potency antioxidant that helps reduce free radicals and increases the natural antioxidant levels required by the liver. It combines a unique formulation of SAMe, Silybin and Turmeric extract (Curcumin) that naturally support and maintain healthy liver function in pets.