Tails Pet Supply

Various Cat Allergies

In most instances when people think about cat allergies they think about human beings who are allergic to cats. The truth is, cats do suffer from several allergies too. Cat allergies are usually as a result of some unfavorable reaction to some allergens that the cat is exposed to. Some of the most common cat allergies include;

Food Allergy
Most people assume that cats who suffer from some form of food allergy were born with the said condition; this is not true. Cats develop food allergy as they grow; the most common form of allergy is caused by some protein found in pork, turkey, beef and chicken. The cat usually scratches a lot and in most instances it causes respiratory and digestive disorders. It can be life threatening if not diagnosed early enough.

Inhalant Allergy

It is the one of the most common cat allergies. The feline gets allergic to some foreign particles in the air and reacts by sneezing or moving away from the irritant. The most common allergens that affect cats include pollen matter from select trees, weeds and grass, mildew, molds and even dust mites in the home. The effect of dust mites and molds can be difficult to detect because the feline may be exposed to them on a daily basis at home. Cat allergies caused by pollen is relatively easy to detect as they are usually seasonal in occurrence; usually over spring and summer.

Contact Allergy
It is one of the rarest cat allergies around. It is usually caused by a reaction to certain substances like wool found in bedding materials for pets or flea collar. It is usually causes very minor irritations to the cat; the cat usually scratches itself at the particular point of contact.

Flea Allergy
Most cats just like dogs do suffer from flea allergies. It is worth noting that it is not the actual flea or flea bite that causes the allergy, rather it is the saliva from the flea that causes the allergic reaction. This allergy causes the pet to severely itch and even chew or bite itself leading to open wounds, loss of hair or Scabs. These reactions may later lead to a bacterial infection that can be deadly. Fleas usually bite the rump of a cat; the area just before the tail, neck and head of the feline.
How to treat cat allergies

Treatment is usually dependent on the allergy that the feline is suffering from. In most instances, steroids are injected or given orally. If it is a seasonal allergy then the treatment should be applied only during the season if it is all year round then the treatment should be all year round and accompanied by the use of some shampoo.

Allergies can also be treated by desensitization using specific antigen injections. It involves first identifying the allergen then getting its antigen; it is usually done on a weekly basis. It usually reprograms the feline’s immune system.

The last form of curing a cat allergy is removing the allergens from the cats surrounding. It involves identifying the allergen by either testing the food or paying keen attention to the felines surrounding and noting the irritating allergen.

(Source: blog.tailspetsupply.com)

Dog Worms

One of the most notorious health problems that affects dogs is worms. Five different types of worms exist. These are heartworms, hookworms, tapeworms, whipworms and roundworms. The truth is that certain worms are easy to spot in comparison to others. Tapeworms for example are very easy to spot. Heartworms on the other hand are difficult to identify. The difficult to spot worms are usually identified during the advanced stages of a particular disease.


Dog worms bring with them a host of health problems. It is imperative to have adequate information about different types of worms and how to handle each of them. In depth knowledge of how worms affect dogs is very important. It helps dog owners come up or find ways to prevent worm infestation and effective treatment. Let us briefly look at each of these worms one by one.


Ringworm is simply a skin infection that affects dogs. This infection comes as a result of fungus. This dog worm presents itself in a gray, dry, and scaly patch. Dogs normally pick this worm when their skin contacts fungus spores. Treatment of ringworm involves the use of shampoos, medicated dips, and ointments. Oral medication for a period of one to two or three months is also recommended. Clearing the ringworm environment is an excellent way of controlling and preventing its spread.


Roundworms are the other dog worms. They usually spread during pregnancy and in feces. They normally cause a serious infection to both puppies and dogs. In the former, these worms can turn out to be more than fatal. This particular worm eats its host’s food. It brings with it diarrhea and other countless symptoms. Deworming and other prescription products come in handy in this case.

Tapeworms come from swallowing fleas and licking. These worms normally absorb nutrients from the intestines. Tapeworms mostly appear around the anus area of a dog. These worms come in various segments. To be precise, their size is that of a ice grain. Tablets and/or injections are the magical treatments for getting rid of these worms.

Whipworms have a favorite residence. This is where the large and small intestines meet. Their main hobby is sucking blood. Dogs pick these worms by grooming and from contaminated soil. Whipworms are not that serious in causing blood loss and other major symptoms. However, when worms are present in the intestines, then they pose major problems. Preventive measures against these worms include the use of dewormers.

Heartworms are the other dog worms that pose a major threat. Mosquitoes are the major transfer agents of these worms. A mosquito bite goes miles in spreading heartworms. The worms live in the heart and arteries. They affect the functioning of the heart and also how the blood clots. Two or three injections will surely eradicate heartworms.

The above are the major dog worms that affect man’s best friend. This animal is very close to most human beings. Consequently, providing protection against dogs is of utmost importance. It is crucial to ensure that you gather as much information as possible in regards to the various ways of preventing the attack of worms.

Vital Things to Consider Before you Buy Cat Furniture

When it comes to deciding on what type of cat furniture to buy for your pet, it is important to consider some crucial factors. Considering the fact that there are a number of different options to choose from, it is important to find the right piece of furniture for your cat. Following are some crucial considerations that you need to be aware of before you buy.

The most significant component of a cat tree is the base, as it is responsible for providing stability to the structure. This is because when your cat jumps on the tree or runs up on it, it must stay stable and not tremble or shake. Therefore, go for a big flat base that can bear the heavy cats or multiple cats running and jumping on it.

Make sure that the scratching posts are of large diameter and must be covered up with top quality sisal rope. Cats often get attracted by a sisal rope and will usually look to scratch as much as they possibly can. As sisal rope is an important component of cat furniture, you may want them to scratch their furniture, not yours.

When you are buying cat trees, avoid getting cheap imported cat furniture. Not only are they low in quality, but are constructed with materials of toxic nature that could pose serious threats to the wellbeing of your pet. So, make sure to determine what types of materials are used in the construction before buying any piece of furniture.

Look into a number of different configurations available. It is important to have sufficient space and you may want to place it beside the sunny window. Cats love warm sun shine and will often look for the sun to take short naps.

If there are children or dogs in the house, then sometimes your kitty may want to sit in a safe place and observe the proceedings. Make sure to have cat furniture that provides your cat with a little bit of solitude while still enjoying the happenings.

Purchasing cat furniture is an important investment, so you may want to have it in your home for a long period of time. Look for a color that will blend well with your furnishings and will be able to compliment the room.

The most important thing to look for is comfort. Cats are very fond of warm and relaxing places. Make sure that the coverings are reliable. Some coverings can be removed for cleaning, and if they are not removable, make sure they are easier to keep clean. Look for something that is not only comfortable, but easy to keep clean as well.

Knowing the number of levels your cat needs is important. Veteran cats look to climb to a level they feel safe and protected. Look into the age of your kitty and decide how many levels are required. If you have two or more cats in the house, then you may need many different levels. This way each cat can choose their desired spot. So, make sure to pay attention to all these aspects before you buy cat furniture.

Cat Condo 101 - Understanding, Selecting, Purchasing and Cleaning Your Cat Condo

A cat condo is your very own multi-function versatile cat activity center which caters to all of your cat’s needs - from sleeping to playing to just hiding or scratching. There are a zillion possibilities with cat condos in today’s market. You could even have a DIY cat condo project if you’re a crafty-type or under a very strict budget.

But with the HUGE array of shapes, sizes, types of cat condos available online, you can easily get one to suit your budget needs.

Are you overwhelmed with the choices? Confused by all the catty terms - cat tree condos, kitty condos, cat playhouses and more?

Don’t be.

In this kitty condo guide, we cover the nitty-gritty of understanding, buying and even cleaning your cat’s condo.

Let’s begin!

What are Cat Condos?

A cat condo is a cat furniture item that’s sole purpose is to make your cat ‘engaged’ in its various contraptions - whether it is sleeping or playing or scratching. This kitty furniture comes in various forms and heights - from a mere 10 inches for small spaces (a tiny apartment) to ceiling-adjusted towering cat tree condos with perches and toys for multiple cats.

A cat condo often has playful toys dangling from a perch or a platform for your cats to play with for hours. It can even have an enclosed kitty litter-box and a plush bed for nap-time.

Which one should I buy for my cat?

To answer that, you first need to analyze what your cat’s needs are and what space you can afford for it. Cats like to climb high places, scratch (your furniture?!), play, hide and eventually sleep. You can get a beautiful cat condo with many levels and kitty attractions for your feline friend. But if your budget or home-space is constricted, try for a cheaper condo that will serve your needs without poking a hole in your pocket.

Trust us when we tell you that you don’t have limited choices for a limited budget!

From tree-like condos to castles to modern artsy structures, cat condos are constantly evolving.

5 Tips for Selecting the Most Suitable Cat Condo:

1. Be specific about your condo needs.

If your furry pet already has a cozy sleeping spot and you just want a full-time cat playhouse with preferably a litterbox attached, then get a condo that doubles up as a scratching post and cat activity center. If you have multiple cats and kittens as well - a large condo with a variety of contraptions and toys and scratching pads would be more suitable for you.

2. Check out the material offered before you hand out your credit card.

Cats are fussy about where they scratch, sleep and play. So, if the material on your chosen cat condo is flimsy, your cat will definitely NOT be playing on it.

3. Quality is more important than price.

You would never want your cat or kitten to get hurt while playing on a poor quality or poorly-constructed cat condo. The base of the condo should be strong enough to withstand any cat’s antics with ease.

If you have a particularly large-sized cat, get one that is exclusively made for larger cats.

How do I clean my cat’s condo?

Cleaning a cat condo is crucial for your cat’s health and for prolonging its durability. You can simply pick apart all pieces of the structure and clean them individually. Remove all pet hair. Vacuum the carpeted materials. Spray your favorite air freshener to remove catty odors. And finally, attack the stains with your carpet cleaning aids and you’re done.

Now, how time-consuming or difficult was that?!

A cat condo has features that will keep your cat busy and occupied for hours. You can do your errands, look after your home and your children - and your cat will be out of your way but happy!

Isn’t that what all cat owners want?

Plus your pet will also be getting plenty of exercise when playing around its new condo.

A kitty condo is also perfect for indoor cats; specially for ones who have working owners. You can leave your home without a worry about your cat or your expensive furniture getting destroyed with constant clawing!

As we said earlier, a cat condo today can be of any shape, size, structure or budget - you just need to go shopping for it!

(Source: blog.tailspetsupply.com)

Advantages of a Cat Tree - 6 Reasons You Must Get a Cat Tree for Your Cat + Buying Tips

If you had to purchase just ONE item to make your cat happy, then it should be a beautiful cat tree!

There are numerous benefits that can be obtained from a cat tree or a cat tree house. From sleeping to exercising to scratching to playing, your cat can have so much fun with it because it’s a versatile commodity.

Still not convinced?

Keep reading to discover 6 beneficial reasons why your cat needs one today.

Cat tree benefit #1 - Cats simply LOVE to climb on top of things.

You must have found your cat hanging on top of the refrigerator or on a bookshelf - between books, or on top of your child’s bunk bed! The fact is - your feline friend loves to climb. Now, you can train him to stop doing that but it will be a superfluous exercise.

A leopard cannot change its spots and a cat will not stop climbing.

So, get a cat tree and watch your pet go up and down in excited delight!

Cat tree benefit #2 - It’s a perfect toy for cats.

A cat tree nowadays is not just a regular standing post. It has so many fun components to drive your cats wild. From hanging balls to colorful mice and ropes, a cat tree house or a kitty condo can keep ALL your cats busy and occupied for hours.

Bonus Tip - We know for a fact that ropes or strings which are being dangled in-front of a cat will drive it crazy with the desire to catch it and bite it.
Since we can’t be dangling ropes for our cats all the time, a cat tree makes for a much wiser choice.

Cat tree benefit #3 - Exercising is very important for every cat.

We all love to indulge our cats and we often give them too much of their favorite cat food and too less exercise. That makes for fat and lazy cats.

Garfield anyone?

A cat tree house with its multiple steps and ramps and ladders provides for the much-needed exercise that almost all indoor cats need. If you are a busy professional or a busier home owner (with maybe small children), a cat tree can solve multiple issues by combining play-time and exercise for your furry pet, keeping it busy and out of your hair for ages.

Cat tree benefit #4 - Your cat really needs to scratch many times a day and it shouldn’t be your super-costly sofa!

Cat trees come in a zillion shapes and sizes. Some have curved sliding scratching posts for cats. Some have carpet-covered ramps. But most cat tree condos have columns covered with sisal or carpet which serve as a scratch-post for your cat. These columns usually connect to the many different levels in the cat tree.

Once your cat starts scratching on the cat tree, it will leave all your furniture alone.

Worth a buy!

Cat tree benefit #5 - Your cat will have a new sleeping place. And it’s not the other side of your bed!

Cats love dozing off in cozy, dark places but sometimes they will sleep right out in the open, preferably on something soft and comfy. Whatever your cat’s favorite snoozing spot, it can’t be better than a plush bed or a closed cabin in a cat tree condo. Or perhaps a high perch on your newly-bought cat tree.

Most cat trees have imitation fleece or fur or soft carpets in certain spots where the cats will love to doze off.

Once your cat sleeps on a hammock in its tree, it will never claim your bed again!

Cat tree benefit #6 - Your cat will thank you for the wonderful gift!

Cats like their privacy too. That is the reason you often find your cat hiding in the most obscure places in the house; specially when you have guests over and they include small children.

Cats are easily frightened by children because of their sudden movements and rapid activity.

We could go on and on about the many uses of this cat furniture but you must be on board with the idea by now.

If yes, then here are a few tips to make your buying process easier:

1. Consider your ceiling height and home space before ordering a cat tree.
2. If you have multiple cats, order a cat tree condo with plenty of levels and perches.
3. Get one that goes with your house decor to make the tree a part of your furniture.
4. Carpeted ones are better in long-term wear and tear than imitation fleece trees.

With these tips, you will definitely get a superb cat tree. Your cat and your furniture will be forever grateful.

(Source: blog.tailspetsupply.com)

Selecting a cat tower

If you have cats in the home, and are looking for a great place for them to sleep and play, a new cat tower is the ideal solution. Not only are there several levels for them to enjoy, there are also many beneficial features that a cat tower is going to bring for the owner, and for their home. When choosing a new tower, there are a few factors for owners to consider prior to deciding on the one they are going to purchase for their cat to make use of in the home.

The Height & Levels -
Different cat tower are going to have a different number of levels based on the height. If you have more than one cat, you should consider a multi-level tower. If you have just one cat, you might choose one with a couple, or even a single level tower. Usually, the more levels, and the larger the cat tower, the more expensive it is going to be.

Material -
Many new cat towers are going to include carpeting, or are completely made of carpet. This is the best material you can choose when buying a tower. Not only is it going to give your cats a scratch post, and comfortable place to sleep, it is going to help teach them to scratch the tower, instead of your furniture, shoes, and other soft materials in the house.

Design -
When selecting the new cat tower, you have to consider the design. Some have tall scratch posts, others have closed levels and compartments, and some have play toys. Depending on what you want to give to the cats, and how much time they are going to be spending on the tower, each owner is going to choose something a little different when they are ready to purchase the new tower.

The color -
This is not a huge factor, but for some owners, they might want to find a tower that blends in well with their home and the decor they have in place. If this is the case, you have to look for a new tower that is made out of a neutral tone carpet material, or one that is going to match up well with the rest of the furniture and decor in the room you are going to put it in.

The price -
Again, the larger it is, the more levels it has, and the more durable, the more it is going to cost. Depending on your budget, and where you choose to purchase the new tower from, you can find great deals when you are ready to choose one. Owners should visit local pet shops, as well as online sites, in order to find the best possible deal, and the ideal new tower, when they are choosing one for their cats.

Each of these factors should be considered by cat owners when they are trying to find the perfect new cat tower, and a great place for their cats to relax, play, and stay in, while sleeping, or any other time during the day.

(Source: blog.tailspetsupply.com)

Selecting Wire Dog Crates

Selecting Wire Dog Crates. Dog crates is an important portion of any kind of dog home. Wire crates tend to be one of the most well-known as they are inconspicuous, and is folded away you should definitely required, or transportation around town. They may be relatively weighty, which may be an optimistic in case your dog has a tendency to stone about whilst boxed up. Pick a wire kennel from the suitable dimension for the dog, who else ought to be simply in a position to stand, change, and also lay down easily. Anything at all bigger will never supply the exact same feeling associated with protection for your dog, and could lead to removing within the dog kennel. Canines intuitively will not get rid of wherever these people rest, however the pet kennel that is too big can provide the actual impact, towards the dog, there is space to perform each.

Wire dog crates possess a skillet within the bottom part which will keep the actual dog through needing to remain within the metallic slats. You are able to location the kennel mat, umbrella, or even cushion within the bottom part for more comfort and ease. Still a few canines will certainly chew up or even drill down these types of components, even though they will not do this outside the kennel. In this case, it can most likely more secure for your dog to prevent with them. The majority of wire dog crates possess 2 doorways: 1 quietly and another by the end. You might find that certain as well as some other much more handy based on the scenario.

Like the actual kennel might be installed in to the in your home which more than likely become feasible if perhaps 1 doorway choice had been accessible. Likewise, you are able to change areas very easily without having stressing regarding entry to the doorway. Opportunities near along with 1 or 2 easy latches. Seldom, the dog will certainly learn how to open up the actual latch. Having a wire kennel, just put in a padlock or other cut that the dog cannot run. None other kennel design could be modified in this manner. The majority of canines such as in the pet kennel. This fulfills their own in-born requirement for the living room: a comfortable place, encircled upon the sides, by which they are able to completely rest. Remaining house by yourself, in particular in your home, canines tend to be hyperalert, keeping track of points for you personally.

Some other canines turn out to be bored stiff and discover amusement within wrecking home furniture or even some other house, which could also generally be a security risk for the pet. Through placing your own dog within a wire kennel whenever you cannot view your pet, offer your dog and also your self much more reassurance. A person be concerned while you are away what their dog gets as much as. Canines such as program, therefore normal crating may become the supply of comfort and ease by doing so, too. Dog proprietors such as wire crates simply because they possess the the majority of versatility.

They may be much more modest compared to plastic material dog crates, and is embellished along with material that fits the actual room’s decor. The opportunity to fold-up the actual kennel launched unnecessary is a really useful function. They may additionally chew-proof, to allow them to supply for any kind of dog.

(Source: blog.tailspetsupply.com)

Caring For You And Your Cats

Owning a cat can’t be as high maintenance as owning a dog, however the most common enemy that a cat lover would encounter is cat fleas. It is the most common parasite that can infest your pet every once in a while. A person should have enough knowledge about cats and flea treatment so that when infestation begins, you will know what to do Owning a cat can’t be as high maintenance as owning a dog, however the most common enemy that a cat lover would encounter is cat fleas. It is the most common parasite that can infest your pet every once in a while. A person should have enough knowledge about cats and flea treatment so that when infestation begins, you will know what to do.

Fleas can be obtained by your cat, especially if they are spending most of their time outdoor. Flea saliva can cause allergies to the cat which can make the bitten area itchy and can lead to skin diseases. If not cured, flea infestation can lead to bubonic plague or anemia. For kittens, flea can cause weakness, and even worse, death. That is why it is best to know the preventive way of taking care of your cats and flea treatment. First things first, check if your cat has been infested by flea.

There are signs and symptoms that you can look out for to be bale to tell if the cat has fleas. If your cat has been scratching a little more than the usual, expect that there is a flea in his coating. Another way to know is to brush your cat’s fur with a fine tooth comb. So better invest on that as early as now so you can check anytime and prevent the spread of fleas on your cat. Once you caught a flea from your comb, put it in warm water so that the fleas will drown. Although you can simply squash them, however if there are too many of fleas infesting your cat, then it is not advisable to squash all of them at the same time. Remember, if the fleas will spread all over the house, it can also give you discomfort and itching like your cat and you do not want fleas to spread all over your house.

That is why as early as you find out about fleas on your cats, immediately apply a flea treatment to avoid spreading. Fleas can survive up to six months and can have a lifespan of up to two years. There are different treatments that can be done to prevent and avoid fleas from laying more eggs. One of the most common treatments is the insecticide. Although there are two types of insecticides, you might want to use both as one can kill the adult flea and the other one can destroy eggs. There are other preventive measures that can be done. One of them is bathing your pet using a flea shampoo.

There are specific time allotments on how long you need to soak your cat with the treatment, so make sure to follow that. Another preventive measure is to soak your pets bedding into a hot water with soap. Leave it for at least 15 minutes then rinse thoroughly. Clean the inside of your house, vacuum all corners and make sure that you do this regularly. If you think it has already reached your bedroom, wash your bedding as well. Make sure to buy a flea collar for your cat to keep him away from getting flea all the time. Again, arm yourself with a lot of information about cats and flea treatment.

(Source: blog.tailspetsupply.com)

The Numerous Benefits of a Cat Tree

(Source: blog.tailspetsupply.com)

The different types of anti barking collars.

Using waterproof anti barking collars is one of the last resorts that a dog owner can use to restrain his dog from extreme barking when all various other ways have actually been tried and failed. Though barking is a dog’s way of interacting, excessive and extremely loud barking can produce irritating noise pollution; more so for neighbors who are bent on having some peaceful rest. But it is not only to neighbors that are affected. Even the dog owners will certainly experience the inconvenience too.

So as good citizens, a suitable solution is needed to address and avoid troubling our neighbors and our peace of mind too. Today, waterproof anti barking collars are available on the market to stop our dogs from barking relentlessly. Given that we value a silent and tranquil environment, perhaps utilizing this tool is the most effective decision one can ever make as a dog owner.

Due to a lot of innovation and research waterproof anti barking collars have actually been proven to successfully handle any type of frenzied dog from barking too much. Dog owners who have made use of this device have shown appreciation that they made the right decision as these anti barking collars can perfectly stop the barking without causing harm to their dear pets.

There are currently 3 sorts of anti-barking collar; each with its own method of controlling and lessening a dog’s bark. Because they have been proven safe and effective, anti barking collars can be acquired at local and online animal stores these day. Of course, each of the collars is battery powered and has its very own design and features of avoiding dogs from extreme barking. For example we have the E-Collar or shock collar if you may. This device makes use of small electric impulses whenever the dog attempts to bark. The collar consists of a strap that comes in various colors, sizes and a control transmitter that lets you set the gadget according to the dog’s resistance. This device is compact, light and waterproof. It also has an on-board noise sensor that isolates your dogs bark from various other sounds in the home. This sensor also counts the vibration that is on the dogs’ throat. The strength of the shock can also be enhanced and lowered.

Then there is the ultra sonic anti barking collar. This kind utilizes ultrasonic sounds to limit and restrain loud barking dogs. It also uses a collar and provides dog owners with two main modes i.e. the ultrasonic and the sonic mode. The ultrasonic mode emits irritating high pitched signals whenever the dog attempts to bark while the sonic mode emits audible sounds in a rapid pattern that fluctuates in pitch.

The last one is the citronellaanti barking collar. This device makes use of a barking limiting approach derived from the idea of a dogs’ keen sense of odor. It makes use of the tough scent of citronella which is typically employed as the base in perfume making markets. Every moment the dog barks, the device emits some citronella is onto a dog’s muzzle. And due to the fact that dogs dislike the scent of citronella, they will minimize their barking to avoid the spray getting onto their faces. These gadgets have been proven efficient in managing loud barking dogs. However, owners must recognize that finding the right solution to their dog’s barking problem might also need a pet specialist’s opinion before deciding on the most appropriate e-collar that might assist discipline your dog.

(Source: blog.tailspetsupply.com)