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Best Wall Perches for Cats

Lisa Selvaggio
by Lisa Selvaggio
Published:  April 27th, 2021

You’ve heard of window perches for cats, but have you thought about wall perches? These will mount securely to a wall in your home, giving your furry friend another place to call her own.

Why should you consider getting your cat a wall perch, and what are some of the things to look for in a high-quality product? We cover the basics below, and have also compiled a list of 10 wall perches for cats that are worth checking out when you’re ready to shop.

What Are the Benefits of Wall Perches for Cats?

If you haven’t thought about giving your kitty some wall perches to lounge on, here are a few of the reasons why it might be a good idea to consider doing so.

Why your cat might love having some wall perches:

  • Cats like to climb, and they like being up high, where they can safely keep an eye on what’s going on around them from a secure spot. If your kitty loves jumping onto high furniture around the house, or if she enjoys spending all of her time at the highest spot on the cat tree, she might love a good wall perch.
  • Kitties can use wall perches to stay active and exercise. Because these perches let them climb, and many of them also have scratchers or toys, your pet can have fun while being able to exhibit her natural behaviors.
  • If you have more than one kitty who don’t always get along, or one cat that tends to need her personal space quite often, a wall perch can serve as her own little private spot to hang out on. Some kitties even like to eat up high, so you can use a wall perch to give your pet the privacy and security she wants while enjoying her meals. All of this might help ensure everyone gets along more peacefully.

Why you might love having some wall perches:

  • The great thing about a wall perch is that it gives your pet the chance to be up high, but you don’t have to use a big cat tree that takes up a lot of space to give her what she wants. If you don’t have a lot of floor space to work with, strategically placing some wall perches in certain rooms of your home might be a great alternative to other climbing options.
  • It’s an easy and effective way to provide your cat with much-needed environmental enrichment. And when your pet is happy, you can feel good too.

Are Wall Perches Safe?

Wall perches can be safe, but there are several things to look for while you are searching for the right type of perch. The last thing you want is to end up buying a low-quality product that might put your cat at risk of injury.

As you shop for wall perches designed for cats, it’s best to read through the details carefully, rather than just going by what the perches look like.

One of the features you want to confirm is whether or not it can hold the right amount of weight, based on how much your cats weigh.

You also want to be sure the product is built well from high-quality materials that will be durable, strong, and sturdy so your kitty will be safe whenever she uses the perch.

Once you’re ready to mount the perch, it’s important to follow the directions carefully. Doing so will help ensure the perch will be stable and strong enough to hold your cat’s weight. The good news is that these products usually aren’t all that complicated when it comes to setting them up on your wall.

What Are Some Things to Look for in Wall Perches?

Again, there are several things to consider while you are shopping for a wall perch for your feline companion. Here are some pointers to help you get started:

  • In addition to checking how much weight a wall perch can hold, also check the dimensions to be sure the perch will be large enough to let your cat sit and lie down comfortably. If you think more than one cat will use the perch at the same time, factor that in as well.
  • Read fellow customers’ reviews to see what they have to say about a wall perch. Did their cats like it? Was it strong enough to hold their pets securely?
  • If the perch boasts extra features, such as toys, holes, and scratchers, consider how useful they’ll really be. Will your cat even use those features, or would a simpler perch be better for your kitty?
  • Is the perch a part of a line of products that you can use to create a really fun play area for your kitty? It might be fun to add more pieces around the perch as your cat grows accustomed to using it. That way, you can keep things interesting and entertaining for your pet.

A List of Some of the Cat Wall Perches to Check Out

Now that you know a bit more about wall perches and their benefits, as well as what to look for when shopping for one, let’s cover some of the many options that are currently available.

As you’ll see below, wall perches that are designed for cats come in various shapes and sizes, and some even come in sets that will encourage your kitty to jump, climb, balance, and play.

By keeping your pet’s personality in mind, you’ll be able to narrow down your options to the type of perch that’s just right for her.

1. CatastrophiCreations Cat Mod Wall Mounted Deluxe Cat Fort Shelf Set

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CatastrophiCreations is a brand that has developed a lot of different wall perches for kitties, so it’s worth looking into what they have to offer. Their Cat Mod Wall Mounted Deluxe Cat Fort Shelf Set is a good place to start because it boasts several great features, including a sisal scratching post, multiple hammocks, and a ladder.

This is a set that includes two products. The first is a ladder that your kitty can use to climb up to a comfortable hammock. Above the hammock, you can mount the other half of this set, which features a hole that is lined with sisal for easy climbing. Once your cat climbs up through the hole, she’ll find a scratching post and additional hammocks that are even higher.

Because this product uses a hidden bracket system, once it’s installed on your wall, it will boast a floating design that’s ultra-modern. And it comes with everything that you need to install it properly.

Overall, this wall perch set can help your kitty climb, jump, and exercise, as well as relax. Multiple cats can use it at the same time, as it can support up to 85 pounds on the wood portion of the perch, and up to 62 pounds on each hammock.

2. CatastrophiCreations Cat Mod Wall Mounted Cat Bridge Shelf

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Another cute and fun option from CatastrophiCreations is their Cat Mod Wall Mounted Cat Bridge Shelf. This is a handcrafted bridge that you can use on its own or as part of a set of other wall perches.

Built with paracord, twine rope, and solid wood, this perch features a hidden bracket system for a floating design, it has fabric that is removable to make it easy to clean whenever necessary, and it can hold up to 85 pounds. Measuring 35” x 35” x 6”, and made of bamboo, it comes with the materials that you need to install it.

Plus, this perch comes in various color options, including unfinished, English chestnut, and onyx, so you can find the one that will match the rest of your interior décor best.

3. Hauspanther Catchall Wall Mounted Cat Scratcher, Toy Storage & Perch

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Another brand that has several offerings in the world of wall perches for cats is Hauspanther. Their Catchall Wall Mounted Cat Scratcher, Toy Storage, and Perch might be a good place to start if you aren’t sure how your kitty will like being on a perch that’s mounted to a wall.

This is a smaller perch, so your kitty will be able to sit on it, but it’s not really made for lounging. It does, however, feature a replaceable sisal scratcher that your kitty can use from the floor, and there is a non-slip carpet on top to help your kitty feel secure if she jumps on it. There’s also a plush ball that hangs from this perch to encourage your kitty to play, and there’s a handy storage box in this perch, too, so you can store even more toys inside.

Made of engineered wood, felt, and sisal, this product comes with all of the instructions and hardware you need to set it up. If your kitty likes it, you can add to it with other Hauspanther products, such as those we discuss below.

4. Hauspanther Nest Perch Wall Mounted Cat Shelf

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The Hauspanther Nest Perch Wall Mounted Cat Shelf is another good choice when you want to give your cat a place to lounge while up high. It’s available in two color options, white and espresso, and it is designed to be easy to mount at whatever height you and your kitty prefer. Plus, it comes with all of the instructions and hardware that you need to get the job done right.

The center of this perch is sunken so it can serve as a cozy and secure space for your fur baby. Beyond that, there are two perching areas where your kitty can sit and observe what’s going on around her. Other nice features include the thick carpet that can help prevent slipping, and the two toy balls that encourage your pet to play.

What’s also nice about this perch is that it can be used as part of a set if you purchase other items from the Hauspanther line. For example, it can pair well with the wall mounted scratcher discussed above, or the cat shelf that we’ll cover below.

5. 7 Ruby Road Wall Mounted Cat Perch

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Cats might snooze for the best part of the day, but when they’re up they can be super energetic – there’s no use denying the fact! And sometimes it can be a challenge to keep them occupied and entertained and provide some much-needed enrichment. Luckily, a clever wall perch design such as this one can bring a new level of fun into their daily routine. 7 Ruby Road Wall Mounted Cat Perch features a unique design that will test your cat’s nimbleness and still offer a cozy little nook for snoozing – on the wall!

With just a couple of straightforward elements, this perch is super easy to assemble and install on the wall. It features two horizontal climbing steps that are covered with natural jute twine for extra durability and a strong grip. The padded hammock cushion is made from cotton and is quite soft, durable, and easy to wash. Slightly loose, it will make for a great snoozing nook and a place to relax. What is more, the modern and elegant design won’t stand out in the room and will blend in any environment.

6. On2Pets Cat Canopy Wall Shelves

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The On2Pets Cat Canopy Wall Shelves are available in a few different shapes. You can choose the curve, the rectangle, or the box. Your cat is sure to enjoy jumping onto these perches, where she’ll find a soft carpet to relax on.

The curve and rectangle options feature fun silk foliage that your kitty can hide behind, while the box option has a carpet of fake grass, along with plywood walls instead—a cute way to give your pet the impression that she’s in the great outdoors.

This wall perch can hold up to 32 pounds. And it comes with instructions, screws, and L-brackets to make it easy to install wherever you want.

7. The Refined Feline Lotus Branch Perch

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If you thought that there is no way whatsoever that you can find a perch for your cat that could double as a design statement piece in your home- it is time to think again! The Refined Feline Lotus Branch Perch is as stylish as they come and will look fabulous in any interior, but the best part is that your kitty will thoroughly enjoy lounging in it. With a design that follows soft and flowing curves, this wall-mounted perch really is unique on the market. It is 61” long and 10.5” inches deep and is made from durable and lasting layered plywood. On top, it features a premium Berber carpet, which is fuzzy, stylish, and super comfy. It can be easily removed and replaced if necessary as it is attached by velcro.

This perch is wall-mounted, and quite easily as well – all you need is a bit of time and the basic tools. It features special screw holes that are 18” apart, and heavy-duty wall anchors as well. These ensure all the necessary support, so there is no need to worry about your cat tumbling down together with the perch. The time has finally come to spruce up your home with an elegant accessory – all the while providing your kitty with a super cozy place to snooze.

8. CatastrophiCreations Wall Mounted Sisal Pole Cat Scratching Post

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Want to give your kitty something fun to climb while also giving her a big scratching post? Then check out the CatastrophiCreations Wall Mounted Sisal Pole Cat Scratching Post.

Lined with sisal, this product is great for kitties that like to stretch up and scratch on a vertical surface. But because it’s so tall, it also gives your kitty plenty of grip when she wants to exercise and play by climbing up to the perch at the top.

Part of the Cat Mod series, this product features a bracket system that makes it easy to use this as an add-on to other items from this brand. And it also comes with everything you need to properly install it so you can take advantage of its modern floating design.

9. Trixie Lounger Wall Mounted Cat Shelves

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If you are looking for a product that will give you several different types of wall perches in a single set, check out the Trixie Lounger Wall Mounted Cat Shelves, which are available in different color options, such as gray and brown, to match the rest of your décor.

This is a great way to give your kitty a few different ways to jump, climb, and lounge up high. There is a hideaway condo that’s lined with a plush material, has a removable cushion, and is a great place where your cat can go to nap privately. And there is a cozy hammock that your pet can choose to relax on as well. Between these, you can set up the two steps to make it easy for your frisky feline to jump from one to the other. And the sisal will help ensure a good grip and an opportunity to scratch too.

As is the case with all of the products on this list, this one also comes with all of the instructions and hardware that you need to install this fun set of wall mounted perches. And the best part is that you can customize how you set it up to give your cat exactly what she would prefer.

10. CatastrophiCreations Cat Mod Lift Wall Mounted Cat Shelf

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Finally, there’s the CatastrophiCreations Cat Mod Lift Wall Mounted Cat Shelf, which is another good option if you are trying to figure out if your kitty would like a wall perch. It provides a great little place for your pet to lounge, and it can also be used as part of a set of other Cat Mod products if you wish.

Featuring a ladder and hammock, this wall perch boasts solid wood and canvas, and it can support up to 62 pounds in the hammock and 85 pounds on the wood. Everything that you need to properly install this perch is included as well.

This product features a hidden bracket system to create a floating design, and it is available in various colors, such as English chestnut/black, English chestnut/natural, onyx/black, onyx/natural, unfinished/black, and unfinished/natural. Plus, it has removable fabric that makes it easy to clean whenever necessary.

WOW
Lisa Selvaggio
Lisa Selvaggio

Lisa Selvaggio is a freelance writer and editor, and our resident cats-pert, with certifications in pet nutrition and pet first aid. She enjoys producing content that helps people understand animals better so they can give their pets a safe and happy home.

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All those in love with the fascinating world of aquatics know how sensitive and (sometimes) demanding pet fish and  aquarium plants are. The aquarium plant life in particular can be very vulnerable, reacting to the smallest changes in the tank’s environment. Naturally, this begs the question: could adding salt to your tank potentially kill its plant life? Or is salt beneficial for your aquarium’s flora? These are the questions that need to be answered carefully, as there are different types of salt used, and not all have the same effects on the many different aquarium plants. Let’s dive deeper into the topic!Is Aquarium Salt Safe for Plants? Aquarium salt, when used properly, has many uses in an aquarium setting. It can help with certain issues like treating fish diseases and promoting electrolyte balance in fish. But what about plants? The key to using salt with aquarium plants is moderation and research. There are different types of salt on the market, so you should inquire about their properties and possible effects on fish and plants. Secondly, always use it in moderation. When used in the right amounts, salt can be beneficial. However, the excessive use of salt can be harmful to plants, as it can disrupt their osmotic balance and lead to dehydration or nutrient imbalances. In fact, put too much of it, and you can kill all the plants AND the fish in the tank!But what is the osmotic balance? Like all living organisms, plants maintain a delicate balance of water and salts within their cells. When exposed to high concentrations of salt, such as those found in aquarium salt products, plants can experience “osmotic stress”. This stress occurs because the salt outside the plant's roots creates a higher concentration of solutes in the soil than inside the plant cells. As a result, water is drawn out of the plant, leading to dehydration and potential damage – and even death.Excessive salt in the aquarium soil can also interfere with a plant's ability to absorb essential nutrients. Sodium ions, which are a component of salt, can compete with other positively charged ions like potassium, calcium, and magnesium that plants need for healthy growth. This competition can disrupt nutrient uptake and lead to deficiencies, even if those nutrients are present in the soil.Another confusing factor is that some aquarium plants are much more tolerant than others. Halophytes, for example, are plants that have evolved to thrive in saline environments and can withstand higher levels of salt in the soil and water. However, most freshwater aquarium plants are not adapted to high-salt conditions and can suffer greatly when aquarium salt is introduced to the tank. You should also consider the types of salt available. Sea salt, for example, is much different and more complex than ordinary table salt. It contains sodium chloride, and minerals like potassium, zinc, and calcium. As such, it is only suitable for use in aquariums that have marine fish and  invertebrates, and plants naturally occurring in salt waters. 

How Can I Reduce My Dog's Environmental Pawprint?

In today’s day and age, with the climate and environment at great risk, we want to do anything we can to minimize our own carbon footprint and the damage we do to Mother Nature. Of course, our pets also have an environmental impact – and eco-conscious pet parents are always on the lookout for simple ways to reduce their pet’s carbon footprint (or pawprint if we’re being precise). Luckily, there are a lot of small but important steps that you can take in order to make your pet’s lifestyle and care much more eco-friendly without compromising the quality of life they are used to. Here's where to start if you want to become a more eco-friendly, sustainable dog owner!5 Ways You Can Reduce Your Dog's Environmental PawprintCaring for your pet can be challenging, and that’s no secret. However, the things that make it easier are not often very good for the environment, and can make your pet’s environmental pawprint significant. Luckily, it does not take too much of a change to turn that completely around and start improving that environmental impact, day by day. What follows are just a few of the basic steps you can take as a caring and responsible owner.#1 Be Responsible About Your Pet’s Waste Disposal:

Wildlife Center Wears Fox Masks When Caring for Orphaned Cubs

Bonding with an orphaned kitten or puppy is fine, not so much when you're caring for wildlife.

What Do I Do if My Dog Has a Chipped Tooth?

Discovering that your dog is hurt or in pain is a concerning moment for any pet parent, regardless of the injury. But dental injuries can be particularly stressful. If you have ever experienced a toothache, you understand!Whether your pup chipped a tooth during a rough play session with their best furry friend or while gnawing on a hard chew like a bone or antler, any dental damage must be addressed promptly.Read on to learn how to prioritize your dog’s dental health, including identifying if they may be suffering from a broken or chipped tooth, how to address dental damage and tips for preventing a broken tooth before it happens. Your pup will thank you!Common Signs of a Broken or Chipped ToothThe first step to caring for dental problems is to identify that your dog is experiencing an issue. The signs of dental problems vary considerably. While some dogs won’t show any discomfort, others may demonstrate considerable pain. This is due not only to the difference in a dog’s personality and pain threshold but also the spectrum of injuries that fall under the heading of “dental problems.”Broken teeth can be categorized into three groups:Enamel Fractures: Damage only to the enamel of the tooth.Crown Fractures: Damage extends deeper into the tooth, breaking the crown and exposing the pulp.Root Fractures: The root of the tooth has been broken.Unless you inspect your dog’s teeth regularly and spot a problem, we often have to rely on body language and behavioral changes to know there’s a problem. Unfortunately, dogs are very good at hiding pain, so they may be suffering from a problem for a while before we’re aware that there is an issue.Some of the more common signs of a broken or chipped tooth include:Excessive droolingBloody salivaPawing at their muzzleChewing on one side of the mouthReluctancy to eat and kibble or harder-to-chew itemsRefusal to eat at allAvoiding drinking cold waterGrinding teethSwelling in the faceDiscomfort or reluctance to have muzzle touchedWhining or whimpering Not playing as they would normally Sudden or out-of-character aggressive or anxious behaviorTrembling or shaking

Scientists Finally Know Why Cats Love Tuna So Much

No food is more synonymous with cats than tuna. Even the pickiest of cats can’t resist the tuna’s fishy flavor. Finally, scientists have learned why cats love tuna so much. In the study published in the journal Chemical Sense, scientists report that cats, like humans, have receptors needed to detect umami flavor. Along with sweet, sour, bitter, and salty, umami is one of the five basic tastes.Umami seems to be the cats’ favorite flavor. Considering that umami gives food a deep and savory meaty aroma, it’s no surprise that an obligate carnivore like a cat would prefer it over all other flavors.The research team also found that cats’ taste receptors bind to two chemicals found in high concentrations in tuna. These chemicals boost the umami flavor, making cats obsessed with tuna. “This is an important study that will help us better understand the preferences of our familiar pers,” says Yasuka Toda, a molecular biologist at Meiji University. According to Toda, this study could help cat food manufacturers create healthier food and more palatable medication for cats. Previous studies showed that cats have a unique palate. Cats can’t taste sugar, because their sweet receptor gene is dysfunctional. Scientists believe that felines lose the ability to taste sweeteners and carbs because they don’t need these macronutrients to survive. Cats also have fewer bitter flavor receptors than humans. This trait is commonly seen in obligated carnivores. “Since discovering that cats don’t have a functional sweet taste receptor, we did wonder what they would respond to instead,” study lead author Scott McGrane, a sensory science expert at Waltham Petcare Science Institute, told Live Science. Humans and other animals possess two genes - Tas1r1 and Tas1r3 that work together to detect umami flavor. Previous research has shown that cats express the umami-related Tas1r3 gene in their taste buds, but it was unclear whether they possess both genes needed to detect umami flavor. The research team led by McGrane discovered that cats expressed both Tas1r1 and Tas1r3 genes in their taste buds. To learn this, the scientist biopsied the tongue of a six-year-old male cat that had been euthanized for health reasons unrelated to this study. However, a closer look at the protein sequences encoded by these genes showed that they are very different from human genes. As it turned out, the main amino acids that activate umami flavor in people - glutamic and aspartic acid - were mutated in cats. “So I began thinking, maybe cats can’t taste umami,” said McGrane. But, as it turned out, amino acids don’t bind to the cat umami receptor alone. Nucleotides, which are common in meat and yeast, bind to the cat receptor and glutamic and aspartic acid then have an enhancing effect. “That’s the exact opposite of what we see in people,” explained McGrane. Cats love tuna because it contains the nucleotide inosine monophosphate. Tuna also contains large quantities of L-histidine, an essential amino acid for cats, that enhances umami flavor. “The L-histidine content of tuna is much higher than of other fish species and meat sources.”These new findings could be used for the development of tastier cat food and pharmaceuticals. Although cat food manufacturers already knew that cats prefer meaty flavors, they now have much more details about the compounds they can start working with. It’s essential for manufacturers to ensure that animals want to eat the food they formulate and find it appealing. “I think umami is as important for cats as sweet is for humans,” said Toda. Dogs, she explained, can taste both sweet and umami, which may explain why they’re not such fussy eaters. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

The Unseen Threat: Dangers of Secondhand Smoke for Your Pet

Most people are well aware of the dangers of smoking. They understand what smoking does to their bodies and know the potential health risks of lighting up a cigarette. But did you know that exposure to secondhand smoke may have serious health consequences for your pets?It’s no secret that smoking is bad for people. In the United States, between 80% to 90% of lung cancer deaths are linked to cigarette smoking. Secondhand smoking is also linked with an increased risk of other forms of cancer, such as breast and colorectal cancer, heart and respiratory disease.Studies have shown that more than 50% of bladder cancer cases in humans are caused by cigarette smoking. A recent study involving Scottish terriers found a link between cigarette smoke exposure and bladder cancer. Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in dogs, and many pooches are diagnosed with some form of this terrible disease. Although many factors may predispose a pet to cancer, research shows that passive smoking is a main danger.Scientists from the College of Veterinary Medicine at Purdue University discovered that Scottish terriers who were exposed to secondhand smoke at home were six times more likely to develop bladder cancer than those who were not routinely exposed to smoke.Passive smoking is also linked with nasal cancer in dogs. This type of cancer is often diagnosed in long-nosed breeds such as collies, greyhounds, and borzois. The increased surface area in their nasal canals traps inhaled particles, allowing carcinogens from tobacco smoke to accumulate in the nasal mucus. As a result, long-nosed dogs are at a greater risk of developing tumors in their snouts. On the other hand, brachycephalic or short-nosed dog breeds, such as pugs and French bulldogs, are more likely to develop lung cancer. Their short noses aren’t as effective at trapping inhaled particles and allow more carcinogens to reach the lungs.Being exposed to smoke increases the risk that your dog will develop cancer, but that’s not all. Pooches that live with smokers are more likely to develop asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory problems.Dogs aren’t the only pets to suffer the consequences of inhaling secondhand smoke on a daily basis. Cats, birds, and small critters like guinea pigs and rabbits are also at risk.Cats that live with smokers are more likely to develop asthma and lung cancer. Felines that inhale secondhand smoke regularly also have a higher incidence of malignant lymphoma.  Studies have found higher nicotine concentrations in the hair of cats living with smokers than those living in smoke-free homes. The same is true for dogs living with smokers, no matter whether their owners smoked inside or outside. Cats are famous for being fastidious groomers, but licking the fur puts them at risk of ingesting even more toxic particles from secondhand smoke than simply inhaling them. Felines that groom excessively can develop oral tumors from licking toxic particles off their fur.Secondhand smoke alone isn't responsible for all health problems seen in cats and dogs. Diet, genetics, lifestyle, and exposure to other potentially toxic substances in the environment combined affect the pet’s overall health.Owners concerned with the well-being of their four-legged companions should be more aware of the air quality in their homes and make necessary lifestyle changes.Choosing to smoke outside can minimize some risks associated with exposure to secondhand smoke. Improving ventilation, opening the windows, and using air filters can help too. However, it’s important to note that even a low exposure to secondhand smoke can be harmful to your four-legged companion.Quitting smoking is hard, but knowing how secondhand smoke affects your pet’s health may motivate you to put down that cigarette once and for all!Join the PetGuiJoin the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Senior Leaves $2.8 Million Estate to Pets, Not Kids

What do you need to consider when planning the future care of your pets?

Is Dog Snoring Normal?

Does it sound like your pet’s sawing wood whenever they take a nap? We hear you. It just so happens that dogs can snore like humans do, and some do it quite often and quite loudly. But what causes snoring in dogs, and is it normal? And is there a way to limit, reduce, or altogether eliminate it? Here are all the deets on dog snoring you need to know.Is Dog Snoring Normal?First off, yes, dog snoring can be completely normal. Just like humans, dogs can snore for various reasons. In most cases, it is not something you should worry about. Still, it can be somewhat distracting, and you might want to know what causes it. A number of factors can contribute to this issue – here are the most common ones.Brachycephalic Breeds:Dogs with short noses and flat faces, known as brachycephalic breeds, are more prone to snoring. This conformation can lead to narrower air passages, making it harder for air to flow smoothly during breathing. Examples of brachycephalic breeds include Bulldogs, Pugs, Boxers, and Shih Tzus.Weight:Overweight, chubby dogs may snore more frequently because excess weight can put pressure on their airways. Combined with excess fat on their neck, and the sleeping position, their snoring can be quite loud, especially during sleep. Age:Believe it or not, age can cause snoring as well! Older dogs may snore more frequently and loudly as they age, just like some humans. Age can affect the muscles and tissues in a dog's throat. Older dogs may experience a relaxation of these tissues, contributing to snoring. Don't hold it against your senior furry friend, they can't help it!Sleeping Environment:Ultimately, the environment in which a dog sleeps can influence snoring. For example, if the room is too dry, it may irritate the nasal passages, or if it's too warm, dogs may breathe with their mouths open, contributing to snoring. Try to find an ideal environment for them, or consider using an air humidifier to moisturize dry air.

Are Essential Oils Safe for Dogs?

Essential oils have a variety of uses and can be quite beneficial. And that’s not true for human use alone, as these natural oils found their way to the world of pets as well, and can be used to help eliminate a range of issues such as skin irritations, allergies, and fleas, and to boost the overall health of your dog’s coat. But, while there are plenty of pet products that contain essential oils, many owners are wondering: are essential oils really safe for dogs? It is a good question, so let’s try and find the right answer.Essential Oils for Dogs: The BasicsWhile some essential oils can be safe for dogs, it's important to use them with caution. Dogs have a more sensitive sense of smell than humans, so strong scents can be overwhelming, even if they are of natural origin. Certain essential oils, like lavender and chamomile, are generally considered safe in small amounts and when properly diluted. That being said, it is important to know what you are buying and to find essential oils that are made for pets especially. These are likely to be properly diluted and formulated to be safe for dogs. Essential oils can have various effects on dogs, both positive and negative. Some oils, like the aforementioned lavender and chamomile, may help with relaxation and anxiety, and help your pet sleep easier. On the other side, specific oils such as tea tree, citrus, and peppermint can be harmful to dogs and should be avoided.When using essential oils around dogs, it's crucial to dilute them properly. Always dilute essential oils before using them around your dog. Most experts recommend a ratio of 1:50, meaning one drop of essential oil to 50 drops of carrier oil. Of course, you should always observe your dog's reactions. Watch for signs of distress or discomfort in your dog when you introduce a new essential oil. If you notice any adverse reactions, stop using the oil immediately.Ultimately, you should be wary of the application methods you are using. Avoid applying essential oils directly to your dog's skin. Instead, diffuse them in the air or use a diffuser. You can also add a few drops to your dog's collar or bedding if the goal is to deter parasites. Needless to say, it goes a long way to properly familiarize yourself with essential oils and how they are used in the dog world. You can go in-depth with  a book that specializes in this topic, and gain the ultimate knowledge about these helpful oils before utilizing these natural products for your pet’s well-being. 

When is the Best Time to Start Puppy Training?

Training your pet is a very important task as it will shape them into a friendly, obedient dog that’s a pleasure to be around. While it does require a lot of patience and effort, training your dog on time makes your life as an owner much easier and prevents a myriad of behavior issues and other problems down the road. Of course, it goes without saying that you should start training early, while your doggo is still a puppy. That is the time when they gladly soak up all the information and eagerly learn. But when exactly is the best time to start puppy training? You can’t do it while they are still teeny-tiny, nor should you wait too long. What is the ideal middle ground? Let’s find out.When is the Best Time to Start Puppy Training?Puppies are like sponges, soaking up information from their environment and their owner, so early training can set a solid foundation for good behavior and establish obedience throughout their lives. Ideally, you can start basic training such as housebreaking, socialization, and simple commands like "sit" and "stay" when your puppy is around 8 weeks old. This is the general “golden rule” that many owners stick by. When they reach that 2-month mark, it’s considered the ideal time for them to quickly grasp the commands you teach them. If you think that this could be “too early” to start training, you are wrong. There are numerous benefits to early training, and all of them are critical for your dog’s well-being and normal behavior. Here are just a few of them:SocializationEarly socialization is so important for puppies. It allows them to learn how to properly interact with other dogs and humans and prevents aggression and behavioral problems later in life. During this period you should expose your pet to new environments, sounds, and sights.BondingTraining sessions are a great way to strengthen the bond between you and your puppy. Spending time together, teaching them new things, and rewarding good behavior builds trust and a positive relationship.Preventing Behavioral IssuesIf you spot behavior issues while your dog is still a puppy, it is easier to prevent them from becoming nasty habits. As you teach your pet proper behavior and as you set up boundaries, you will prevent many nasty issues from forming, such as excess chewing, barking, or disobedience. If you already notice chewing issues that stem from teething, make sure to redirect their attention to an appropriate chew toy and use  puppy no-chew deterrent sprays to help you shift their focus.

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