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Our Picks for the Best Organic Cat Foods

Lisa Selvaggio
by Lisa Selvaggio
Published:  October 28th, 2021

Your kitty sticks her nose up at her bowl – what’s a pet parent to do? If you’re looking for quality, we’ve picked the best organic cat foods.

As a pet parent, you want to feed your kitty the best food possible, as nutrition plays an integral role in overall health. Just as you feed and nourish your own body with natural, clean foods, you might want to do the same when you give your furry companion her daily meals. And because there are so many consumers who want to take this extra step towards keeping their pets happy and healthy, many manufacturers now offer organic wet and dry foods that are formulated specifically for felines.

Keep in mind that organic ingredients need to meet certain standards. For example, they should not be genetically engineered, irradiated, or grown using synthetic or chemical fertilizers. They also should not be grown using synthetic hormones, toxic pesticides, or antibiotics.

As you shop for the right organic cat food, it is best to carefully read through ingredients lists, as well as the information on a product’s label. Some cat foods might contain nothing but organic ingredients, while others might contain anywhere from 70-95% organic ingredients. The label will also tell you whether the ingredients have been certified organic by a third party.

To help you begin your search for an organic cat food, we’ve compiled a list of 10 wet food and dry food options to consider, and they are listed below in no particular order. Remember, if you have any questions regarding what you should be feeding your kitty, consult with a veterinarian first.

Organic Wet Food Options

1. Editor’s Choice: Castor & Pollux Organix Grain-Free Organic Turkey Recipe All Life Stages Canned Cat Food

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The Castor & Pollux Organix Grain-Free Organic Turkey Recipe is certified organic by the USDA, and it is formulated for all life stages. It provides the protein that your kitty needs by using organic, free-range turkey, which is the first ingredient. Beyond that, it contains ingredients like cranberries, alfalfa, and carrots to provide antioxidants that may support your pet’s overall health. And this food is made in the USA using ingredients from sustainable farms.

This canned cat food comes in the form of a pate that contains broth to provide your pet with the moisture she needs. It has omega 3 and 6 fatty acids that may support your kitty’s skin and coat, and it has fiber that may help maintain the health of your pet’s digestive tract and help keep hairballs under control. You will not find any artificial ingredients in this product, and it does not contain any soy, corn, wheat, or grains either. Therefore, it might be appropriate for your pet if she has any food sensitivities or allergies.

The organic ingredients in this food include turkey, chicken, chicken liver, dried peas, coconut flour, dried egg product, pea protein, flaxseed, carrots, cranberries, and dehydrated alfalfa meal.

This brand makes organic cat food in a variety of flavors, making it easy to give your pet the variety she craves. Other flavors available from Organix include:

  • Grain Free Organic Chicken & Chicken Liver Recipe
  • Grain Free Organic Chicken Recipe
  • Grain Free Organic Kitten Recipe
  • Grain Free Organic Shredded Chicken & Chicken Liver Recipe
  • Grain Free Organic Shredded Chicken Recipe
  • Organic Turkey & Spinach Recipe
  • Organic Turkey, Brown Rice & Chicken Recipe

2. Runner Up: ZIWI Peak Canned Wet Cat Food

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ZIWI’s Peak range is made from only the finest, limited ingredients, without any fillers, sugars, glycerins, artificial preservatives, gums, or BPA. Protein-packed, this wet cat food contains 92% meat and organs from ethically and sustainably sourced meats and seafoods from New Zealand’s free-range farms and pristine blue waters with no added hormones, antibiotics, or growth promotants. Enriched with tripe and green mussels, this wet food is an excellent source of chondroitin and glucosamine, which helps promote healthy joints. The food is made in the chunky loaf style, with plenty of protein and moisture – just what your little carnivore needs to thrive.

In addition to beef, there are 6 other flavors to choose from:

  • Chicken
  • Rabbit and lamb
  • Venison
  • Lamb
  • Mackerel
  • Mackerel and lamb

3. Best Kosher: Evanger’s Organics Turkey & Butternut Squash Dinner Canned Cat Food

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The Evanger’s Organics Turkey & Butternut Squash Dinner Canned Cat Food is certified organic by the USDA and Oregon Tilth, so this is yet another option if you want to give your kitty food that is packed with natural, organic ingredients. On top of that, it is made in the USA, and it is Kosher certified too.

This is a holistic formula that is rich in protein, as the first ingredient is organic turkey. It also has nutrients and antioxidants that may help support your pet’s vision, heart, immune system, bone health, dental health, skin, and coat. And this food does not contain any gluten, grains, soy, corn, preservatives, fillers, or artificial ingredients. Plus, it might be appropriate for cats with sensitive systems because it is a limited ingredient formula.

The organic ingredients in this cat food include turkey, chicken broth, butternut squash, and guar gum. The remaining ingredients are vitamins and minerals that balance out the recipe and help ensure your pet gets the right amount of nutrients in her daily diet for overall wellness.

This product is also available in other flavors that your cat might love. For example, you can find Evanger’s Organic Braised Chicken Dinner and Evanger’s Organic Beef Dinner.

4. Best Non-GMO: Purina Beyond High Protein Organic Chicken & Sweet Potato Recipe Pate Wet Cat Food

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Purina Beyond cat food goes a step further to make sure your feline friend is getting only the best – the food is GMO Project verified (which means that single ingredients in it are not currently at risk for being GMO) and made from high-quality ingredients from trusted sources, including organic meat. The first ingredient in this pate is free-range organic chicken raised without added antibiotics or growth hormones, followed by organic chicken broth, organic chicken liver, and organic sweet potatoes. Grain-free and free of nasty ingredients such as corn, wheat, soy, poultry by-product meal, or artificial colors, flavors and preservatives, this wet cat food is packed with healthy, natural ingredients – and enriched with vitamins and minerals your kitty needs to stay healthy and in top shape.

5. Best Pate: OrgaNOMics Turkey, Duck & Chicken Dinner Organic Grain-Free Pate Wet Cat Food

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The OrgaNOMics Turkey, Duck & Chicken Dinner Organic Grain-Free Cat Food is a high-protein, balanced formula that comes in the form of a pate. Not all of the ingredients in this product are organic, but it might be a step in the right direction if you want to introduce more organic ingredients into your kitty’s diet.

The first three ingredients are real turkey, duck, and chicken. Although these are not listed as organic, and we did not note any organic certifications on the label, there are other ingredients that are listed as organic, such as carrots, peas, sweet potatoes, guar gum, egg, coconut oil, and vegetable oil. Also, this wet food for cats does not contain any gluten, grains, fillers, preservatives, or GMOs.

This particular formula claims to be beneficial to a cat’s digestive health, and the moisture might also support your pet’s skin and coat. Beyond that, this canned food might also help if your kitty has hairball problems, or if you want to feed your pet a food that may also help with weight control.

Note: This is not the only flavor that you will find by OrgaNOMics, so you can certainly give your feline friend quite a bit of variety to help keep her diet interesting and satisfying. The OrgaNOMics line of cat food comes in several other flavors, such as:

  • Chicken Dinner
  • Beef and Pork Dinner
  • Salmon and Duck Dinner
  • Lamb and Beef Dinner

6. Best for Urinary Health: Wysong Uretic Organic Chicken Canned Cat Food

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You can’t beat formula backed by experts- if anyone knows what’s the best organic food for cats it’s the veterinarians, and Wysong Uretic Organic Chicken Canned Cat Food was designed by one. This wet cat food claims to provide the highest quality nutrients that may promote overall health and quality of life, as well as support energy levels, and immune system health but is mostly prized for its beneficial effect on feline urinary health. Made from premium quality natural materials such as organic chicken, this canned food contains high amounts of protein and low amounts of carbs, along with nutraceuticals and micronutrients that help support the urinary system and immune system of your pet. It is ideally suited for cats that have had UTIs in the past or are prone to developing urinary infections, and other issues such as cat urine crystals also known as struvite bladder stones.

And not only is this canned cat food good for your pet, but it is also quite tasty. Wysong Uretic Organic Chicken Canned Cat Food comes in the form of juicy pate and most kitties will go bananas for it.

7. Best Dry Kibble: Castor & Pollux Organix Grain Free Organic Chicken & Sweet Potato Recipe Dry Cat Food

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Organic Dry Food Options

Whether your kitty prefers eating only kibble or you like to switch things up and give her a little bit of wet and dry food, Castor & Pollux Organix is also available in dry food flavors. One example is their Grain Free Organic Chicken & Sweet Potato Recipe. It is certified organic by the USDA, and it is cooked in USDA-accredited, organically certified kitchens in the USA.

This food, which is complete and balanced for cats of all ages, does not contain any corn, gluten, or soy, and it does not use any artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives either. Instead, it provides your pet with plenty of protein from organic, free-range chicken, which is used as the first ingredient. In addition to that, it contains omega-3 fatty acids for a healthy coat and healthy skin, as well as probiotics and a blend of ingredients that include flaxseeds, coconut oil, and cranberries.

The organic ingredients in this formula include chicken, chicken meal, pea protein, sweet potatoes, peas, chickpeas, tapioca, sunflower seed meal, coconut oil, chicken fat, flaxseed, chicken liver, dried alfalfa meal, and cranberries.

If your kitty doesn’t like this particular flavor, or you just want to give her some variety, this dry food line is also available in other flavors, such as their Organic Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe and their Grain Free Organic Kitten Recipe.

8. Best Sustainable: Open Farm Pasture-Raised Lamb Grain-Free Dry Cat Food

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Open Farm is passionate about using only humanely and sustainably sourced ingredients in their pet food range, and to boot – all of the ingredients they use are 100% traceable, which is not something many pet brands can boast with. Made with real cuts of pasture-raised meat without antibiotics and growth hormones, this cat kibble is high in protein and contains no meat meal or poultry byproducts, corn, wheat or soy, as well as no artificial flavors or preservatives. Only clean ingredients formulated to support muscle growth, optimal digestion, and meet your cat’s nutritional needs. To boot, the formula also includes garden fresh cranberry and dandelion greens to support urinary health – an issue many felines struggle with.

In addition to pasture-raised lamb (which is a great choice for cats with sensitive stomachs or allergies), there are 3 more flavors to pick from:

  • Catch-of-the-season whitefish
  • Wild-caught salmon
  • Homestead turkey and chicken

9. Best Grain-Free: Tender & True Organic Chicken & Liver Recipe Grain-Free Dry Cat Food

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The Tender & True Organic Chicken & Liver Recipe Grain-Free Dry Cat Food might be a great choice if you are looking for a high-quality dry food. It contains ingredients that are not only organic and sourced from farmers in the United States, but also humanely raised. Plus, this product has the USDA Certified organic seal, and it is made in the USA.

This formula is complete and balanced with added nutrients like vitamins and minerals. It has been formulated by pet nutritionists, and it is appropriate for cats of all ages. Also, it does not contain any GMOs, soy, corn, wheat, or grains, and it doesn’t have any artificial colors, preservatives, and flavors either.

The organic ingredients in this dry food include chicken, chicken meal, tapioca starch, pea flour, dried pea, chickpea, potato flour, flaxseed meal, chicken fat, chicken liver, and chicken liver digest meal.

If your pet doesn’t like this flavor, you can also find Tender & True Organic Turkey & Liver Recipe dry food to try. And if you want to incorporate some wet food into your cat’s diet, Tender & True also has Organic Chicken & Liver Recipe and Organic Turkey & Liver Recipe in the form of canned food as well.

10. Honorable Mention: Petcurean Gather Free Acres Organic Free-Run Chicken Dry Cat Food

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Petcurean evaluated and selected the sustainable and responsible growers, fishers, and farmers that provide them with high-quality ingredients for their pet food, including their Gather Free Acres Organic Free-Run Chicken Dry Food. Plus, this food is certified organic by the USDA and Canada Organic.

The ingredients in this complete and balanced product for adult cats include open-pasture chicken and non-GMO produce. The chicken is the first ingredient, as well as the single source of animal protein in this formula. And there aren’t any byproducts, corn, soy, wheat, gluten, or artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives in this food, which is fortified with vitamins and minerals as well.

The organic ingredients in this dry cat food include chicken, dehydrated chicken, peas, and flaxseed.

Many Organic Cat Food Options to Choose From!

It wasn’t always this easy to find organic food for cats, but you now have quite a few options to consider, whether you feed your kitty dry food, wet food, or both. Go ahead and see if your furry friend likes any of the foods above to get started, but talk to your vet first if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s diet.

What should I consider when choosing organic food for my cat?

The first and most obvious factor to consider is if the food is really organic. There are just a few brands that are certified organic by the USDA, but that doesn’t mean that you’re limited just to these types of food. Plenty of formulas include organic ingredients, or clean ingredients without GMO, growth hormones, or antibiotics, so read the labels carefully for more info if you are unsure. Next, be sure that the food you choose is formulated to meet the dietary needs of your cat, appropriate for their age and specific health issues (e.g. urinary issues or food allergies) if applicable.

What are the benefits of organic food for my cat?

Some pet owners might wonder if the label organic is worth the hefty price tag, and the opinions are divided. The main appeal of organic cat food is that it uses ingredients that are free of pesticides, GMOs, growth hormones, and antibiotics – so their pet doesn’t consume harmful ingredients on a daily basis. If you are worried about the quality of ingredients in your pet’s regular food, be it wet or dry, it might be worth making the switch to organic.

Which one is better: organic dry food or organic wet food?

There is no universal answer to this question – each has its pros and cons, and you have to choose specifically according to your cat’s needs and preferences. Organic dry food is more convenient to pet owners and some cats prefer their food to be crunchy, but it has a low moisture content so you have to make sure that your pet consumes enough water on a daily basis when feeding dry food. On the other hand, organic wet food is closer to your pet’s natural diet as it is packed with protein and rich in moisture, but it can be more expensive and a bit more hassle for you (it can’t be left in the bowl for hours on end like kibble and has to be refrigerated after opening).

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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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American XL Bully dogs will be banned by the end of the year after numerous attacks were reported across the United Kingdom. The term "XL Bully" typically refers to a type of  American Bully breed known for its muscular build and larger size compared to standard American Bullies. These dogs are often selectively bred for their size, strength, and temperament, so while they are not inherently aggressive, they have the means to do some damage if they are reared to be dangerous.The ban has owners of bully breeds across the UK scared and confused, so here’s what you need to know about the details of this edict. Starting from December 31st, all XL Bullies will have to be kept on a lead and have a muzzle while in public. What is more, from this date it will be completely illegal to advertise, breed, sell, exchange, gift, or abandon or let stray any XL Bullies. In short – it is a decisive strike against this breed, as announced by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, earlier this year.Furthermore, a complete ban on people owning XL Bullies will come into force in the UK from February 1st, 2023. This had owners scared that their pets would have to be put down just because of their breed, but, luckily, that’s not the case. If the owner applies before the end of January, with the wish to keep their pet. With that, the household will receive an exemption certificate, but it will also have to comply with a very strict set of rules related to the breed. UK government department Defra has announced that it received more than 4,000 exemption applications so far and that a “majority” were approved. Their spokesperson said that â€ś "The majority of applications are successful and the majority of successful applicants are receiving their certificates in less than a week."This only supports the assurances that there will be no “forced” euthanization of these dogs. However, those people that do not apply for an exemption by the end of the deadline, will have to put their XL Bullies down. They will be granted ÂŁ200 to cover the costs of a vet euthanizing their dog. Rescue and rehoming organizations can claim ÂŁ100 per animal for the same purpose. The government's website states "the euthanasia must be performed by 31 January 2024" for these financial claims to be successful. Sadly, because of this new law, at least 246 XL Bullies will be put down in the coming period, as their owners did not apply for an exemption, or were not granted one. American XL Bullies are not the first dogs to be banned in the UK. Several breeds were banned in the past, and owning them is now completely illegal. These breeds include the  Pitbull terrier,  Japanese Tosa,  Dogo Argentino, and  Fila Brasileiro. Owning a banned dog breed can get you in plenty of trouble, specifically an unlimited fine and a six-month prison sentence. 

How to Tell Your Cats Are About to Fight, According to Scientists

Have you ever wondered if your cats are play fighting or fighting for real? People living in multi-cat households know that the occasional scuffle or a full-blown cat fight is bound to happen. However, many cat owners have a hard time figuring out whether their cats are fighting or roughhousing. A new study published in Scientific Reports can provide some clues. As it turns out, certain behaviors could indicate whether an interaction between two felines is friendly, aggressive, or something in between. In this study, scientists, including Noema Gajdoš-Kmecová from the University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Košice, Slovakia, analyzed 105 videos of interactions between 210 cats. The videos were obtained directly from cat owners and YouTube. After watching around one-third of the videos, Gajdoš-Kmecová pinpointed six types of specific behaviors, including wrestling, chasing, staying still, vocalizing, interactive, and non-interactive activities. She then watched all the videos again to see which cats exhibited one of these specific behaviors and for how long. After running a statistical analysis, Gajdoš-Kmecová was able to identify three distinctive types of interactions between the cat pairs - playful, intermediate, and aggressive. To confirm her findings, other members of the research team also watched the videos and classified each interaction between cats. Over half of the cats from the videos, 56% to be exact, exhibited playful interactions. According to the study, playful interactions included wrestling and a lack of vocalization. About 29% were labeled as agonistic, meaning they exhibited any type of social behavior that included threatening, aggression, and submission. Cats in this group vocalized and exhibited recurring bouts of inactivity.The cats in the intermediate group were involved in both aggressive and playful encounters. According to researchers, this group showed prolonged exchanges of specific behaviors, like laying on the back with the belly exposed, pouncing, stalking, and grooming each other. Scientists believe that this mixture of playful and aggressive behavior may be a sign of short-term friction between the cats rather than the end of the relationship. â€śThis might escalate into a fully agonistic encounter but does not necessarily reflect a breakdown in their social relationship but rather a short-term disagreement in social priorities,” researchers wrote in the study. This study is the first to apply a scientific approach to cat behavior that can be identified by experienced and first-time owners alike. Thanks to this study, scientists can now classify inter-cat interactions as either playful, agonistic, or intermediate. â€śWrestling can be a sign of a fight but if it comes with bouts of inactivity then that often means it is playful,” explained Profesor Daniel Mills, who led the study.“Playfighting is also without vocalizations. That’s the profile of a friendly cat. The agonistic cat, they might not do as much wrestling with inactivity but they do lots of vocalization.”“Owners should keep an eye out on how much they are wrestling and whether or not they’re vocalizing. Vocalizing can be broad and include meowing and also yowling,” he added. We all know when cats are fighting fur real, but it’s important to recognize intermediate interactions, where things could end in play or escalate into a real fight. â€śA lot of cats end up at cat rescue centers because the owners think that they’ve fallen out. In the clinic, I’ve seen cats that are playing and the owner thinks it’s a real fight,” said Professor Mills. If your cats are really getting along (share food and toys and sleep together), an occasional bout of agonistic play is okay. But if your cats aren’t the best of friends, you should look for signs of agonistic behavior. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Why Does My Dog Paw or "Dig" His Food Bowl?

Sometimes, dogs can behave straight out quirky. The range of their weird behaviors varies from chasing their tail and scooting on their but, to “pawing” or “digging” food, which sort of looks like they’re burying their kibble but they’re not really doing anything. Have you ever seen your pooch trying to fake bury his food by pawing at it? Don’t worry, the behavior might look odd at the very least, but it’s not a reason for concern. Here’s what dogs that dig, bury, or paw their food are trying to tell you with this behavior.Why Does My Dog Paw or "Dig" His Food Bowl?Dogs may exhibit pawing or digging behavior around their food bowl for various reasons, and the interpretation can depend on the individual dog. By closely observing your dog's specific actions and considering these factors, you may gain a better understanding of why they engage in pawing behavior. Keep in mind that individual differences among dogs can lead to variations in behavior, and what holds true for one dog may not necessarily apply to another. Still, there are some common explanations that hold true for most situations when “pawing” is in question.Too Much Food Served:In the wild, dogs might use their paws to cover or bury their food to protect it from other animals or to save it for later. This behavior could be a residual instinct from their ancestors – if they eat a bit and then paw at their bowl before leaving the meal, it means that they are trying to stash the surplus away for later. Try downsizing their portions to see if the behavior goes away. Scent Marking: Dogs have scent glands in their paws, and pawing at the food bowl might be a way for them to mark the area with their scent. This could be a territorial behavior and might be seen in households where there are several dogs present. Excitement or Anticipation: Dogs might get excited about mealtime, and pawing at the bowl could be a way of expressing anticipation or eagerness for their food. This is especially true if they are eagerly pawing the ground even before the food has been served. These dogs can often be voracious eaters as well, so to prevent them from snarfing up their food in seconds, try utilizing a  slow feeder for dogs to promote a more appropriate pace of eating and prevent bloat and other digestive issues due to lack of chewing and fast eating.

Can I Teach A Cat Tricks?

Cats are often stereotyped as being aloof and independent. But beneath that mysterious exterior lies an intelligent and curious being capable of great things – you just have to learn how to tap into it! Whether you’re interested in trick training your cat as a form of mental enrichment or strengthening your bond and creating lasting memories, we have you covered. In this blog post, we will explore the world of cat trick training. This includes debunking common myths, breaking down the process of training a cat, and sharing a list of fun tricks to help you get started. Is it Possible to Train a Cat? Yes! Your cat is just as capable of learning how to perform tricks as your dog. However, there are some differences in how you approach this process. Dogs are often motivated by their bond with their handler and the praise they will receive for performing as expected. This is far less likely to work for your cat. Instead, you will need to find the right inspiration. For many, this comes in the form of high-value treats like diced chicken, sardines, or low-sodium tuna. The smellier the treat, the better. With the right motivator and a lot of patience, your cat can learn a wide variety of fun tricks and useful skills. How Long Does It Take to Teach a Cat a Trick? The time required for a cat to learn a trick will depend on many factors, including the difficulty of the trick, the cat’s eagerness to learn, and the way you approach the training session. We have two cats in our house, and they fall at very different ends of the spectrum. Pippen is highly trainable and quickly picks up tricks, while Jinx is much more stubborn and takes longer to come around. Several of these factors can be influenced by you directly. Have you found the right motivator for your cat? Are you experimenting with different training approaches to find the one that works best? Are you trying to move through the training process too quickly? However, some factors are beyond your control. If your cat is uninterested in training, even your best efforts to motivate them may fall short. Is it Too Late to Teach My Cat Tricks? There is an old myth that states: “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.” This has been proven to be false by many trainers, with dogs even in their senior years. But what about cats? Is there an expiry date on when your cat can be taught to perform tricks? The best time to start training a cat is when they are young, but that doesn’t mean it’s the only time! Your older cat may be slower to learn or a little more reluctant to get started, but with a little patience and the right motivation, you can train cats of all ages.

Is Your Cat Itchy? Causes and Treatments for Itching in Cats

Itching, or pruritis, in cats has various causes, so it’s a symptom of multiple problems. Sure, a cat will have an itch they need to scratch every now and then, just like people do. But if you see your cat scratching more than usual, or they’re scratching, licking, or biting themselves so much that they’re losing fur and causing cuts and scabs on their skin, there may be an underlying issue that should be addressed.Whether your cat is scratching at one area or they’re itchy all over, don’t ignore this problem. Read on to learn about some of the causes of itchiness in cats, along with some of the things you can do to provide relief. Remember, it’s always best to consult a veterinarian about your cat’s symptoms so you can give your pet the right treatment.Reasons Why Your Cat Is ItchyHere are some of the conditions that can cause a cat to feel itchy:AllergiesA lot of things can cause an allergic reaction in cats that leads to itchy skin. For example, if your cat is allergic to an ingredient in their food, such as a particular protein, their allergy might manifest as itchiness. As another example, your cat might be allergic to something in the environment, such as dust in the house or pollen that blows in through a window. And some cats have contact allergies to products, from litter to plastic or fabric, that can cause a reaction. The goal is to find the allergen and remove it from your cat’s environment as best as possible. In the case of a food allergy, using food trials with the guidance of your vet can help you figure out what’s causing the reaction so you can start giving your cat food that’s appropriate for them. ParasitesBites from insects and parasites can cause your cat to feel itchy. Fleas and mites are a couple examples. And, yes, indoor cats can get fleas, as they could be brought in from outside and find their way to your feline.When it comes to mites, such as ear mites or mange, your veterinarian can prescribe treatments after performing some tests for an accurate diagnosis.For flea allergy dermatitis caused by flea bites, it’s a matter of eliminating the flea infestation and preventing future infestations. You can use over-the-counter products, such as Frontline Plus for Cats, which is a topical treatment you apply between your cat’s shoulders (where they won’t be able to lick it off). It kills flea eggs, flea larvae, and adult fleas, as well as ticks and chewing lice, and each dose works for a month. But you also need to thoroughly clean your home and your pet’s things to be sure you eliminate fleas in the environment.

Study Finds Pets Didn't Make People Happier During the Pandemic

Would you say that your pet help you feel better during the pandemic? Countless pet parents, myself included, would say they experienced less stress and anxiety during lockdown thanks to their four-legged companions. However, a new study led by researchers from Michigan State University suggests otherwise. Researchers couldn’t find a reliable association between pet ownership and well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic, even though owners claimed pets improved their lives. The pandemic was extremely stressful for everyone. The research team from Michigan State University theorized that the pandemic created ideal conditions to determine how much happiness and comfort pets actually provide to their families. The study, published in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, evaluated 767 people on three separate occasions in May 2020. The researchers used a mixed-method approach, looking at several indicators of well-being. They also asked owners in an open-ended question to think about the role of pets. Unsurprisingly, pet owners reported their pets made them happy. Owners claimed pets help them feel more positive emotions and provide companionship and affection, but also expressed worry about their pet’s well-being and reported their pets interfered with working remotely. But when researchers compared the happiness of pet owners to levels seen in non-pet owners they made a surprising discovery. Shockingly, the data showed no difference in the well-being of pet owners and non-pet owners over time. The research team explained that it did not matter what type of pet people owned, how many pets they had, or how close owners were with their pets. The personalities of the owners weren’t a factor either. â€śPeople say pets make them happy, but when we actually measure happiness that doesn’t appear to be the case,” said William Chopik, an associate professor in MSU’s Department of Psychology and co-author of the study, in a university release. â€śPeople see friends as lonely or wanting companionship, and they recommend getting a pet. But it’s unlikely to be as transformative as people think,” added Chopik. The research team also explored several other potential reasons as to why there was no difference in the happiness levels of pet owners and non-pet owners. The most likely reason might be that non-pet owners have found ways to fill their lives with activities and interests that make them as happy as owning a pet would. â€śStaking all of your hope on a pet making you feel better is probably unfair and maybe costly, given other things you could do in your life that could improve your happiness,”  said Chopik. Another study, involving 4,237 people, beginning at the start of the pandemic and ending in December 2021, had similar findings. Although owners grew closer to their pets, especially dogs, during the pandemic, that didn’t stave off stress.In fact, the lowest stress levels were seen in non-pet owners. When you think about it, these results kind of make sense - pet owners had an additional mouth to feed during the lockdown and had limited opportunities to take their dogs out for a walk or play session. The results of these studies are surprising, to say the least. I was positive that I was happier than my poochless friends during the lockdown, but guess that wasn’t the case. After thinking about this a bit more, I realized that maybe we shouldn’t expect so much from our four-legged companions. Yes, there are many benefits to owning a pet, and pets can make us happy, but ultimately happiness depends on ourselves. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Should My Dog Wear a Winter Coat?

As the temperatures drop and winter approaches, many pet parents face a common question: Should my dog wear a winter coat? It’s a valid question! After all, we bundle up before heading out into the ice and snow. Why shouldn’t our dogs? This article will explore the considerations, benefits, and potential downsides of winter coats for dogs. Plus, we’ll share the coats we use to keep our pups warm and cozy. Let’s get started… Do All Dogs Need a Coat in Winter? The short answer is no. Not all dogs need a winter coat to stay comfortable in the colder temperatures. In fact, some dogs will be more comfortable without a winter coat. That leaves us with one more question – how do you know if your dog will need a coat this season? Here are a few factors to consider: Breed & Coat LengthWhat breed or breed mix is your dog? Some dogs, like the Alaskan Malamute, Siberian Husky, and Keeshond, were specifically bred to handle the colder temperatures. These dogs have thick double coats, including a water-resistant guard coat and a plush, warm undercoat. If you own one of these dogs, you may see them relaxing outside, happily napping in a snowbank. They thrive in cooler weather but struggle when the temperatures climb. On the other end of the spectrum, some dogs were bred to live in warmer climates. These dogs have short coats, offering little protection from the winter cold. Age Your dog’s age could make them more sensitive to changes in temperature, both heat and cold. If you have a young puppy or a senior dog, they may need a little extra care and attention. Not only do they feel cold faster, but the low temperatures could worsen the discomfort of a senior dog’s arthritis or other joint problems. Even if your dog once thrived in cold temperatures, they may struggle in their older years.Disease or Illness If your dog is currently living with a disease or illness, it can compromise their ability to regulate their body temperature effectively. Your dog’s condition can impact many aspects of their well-being. It may weaken their immune system, causing dehydration or interfering with proper circulation. Contact your veterinarian if you’re unsure whether your dog’s illness could impact their ability to handle the cold. Activity LevelAre you heading outside to hang out in your yard, or are you planning to engage in something more active like a hike or skijoring? As your dog’s muscles are engaged and working, they are producing heat that raises the body temperature. If your dog occasionally needs a light jacket, they may not need one during heavy activity. On the other hand, if your dog is usually okay when you’re going for a walk, they may need a light jacket or sweater if they are going to be standing around.

How To Tell if a Cat Is Cold

Despite your cat’s luxurious coat, they can feel cold sometimes, and it’s important to make it easy for them to warm up because, if they get too cold, they could become hypothermic. Keep reading to learn how to spot the signs that your cat is cold, and how to help them feel warm and comfortable.Signs Your Cat Is ColdCats of all ages and breeds can feel the effects of the cold, but kittens, seniors, and those who are ill are more susceptible. And, of course, hairless cats can get cold even faster. Here are some of the ways to tell if your cat is cold:Your cat’s body feels cold – Feel your cat’s body to see if they’re cold to the touch. If their ears, paws, and tail are colder than normal, they may need help warming up. Your cat’s posture changes – A cat who’s cold may curl up in a ball to try to warm up. You might also find them puffing up their fur or they might be in a hunched position as they try to conserve heat. Your cat is looking for warmer spots – A kitty who’s feeling the chill in the air will find the warmest spots in the house. They might get under the thick blanket on your bed, or they might insist on sitting in your lap. And you might find them spending more time near a heater or fireplace. During the day, they might also move to areas that get more sunshine to feel its warmth.Your cat isn’t as active – When a cat feels too cold, they may become less active. If your pet is sleeping more or appears lethargic, first make sure that another medical issue isn’t to blame. If it’s because they’re cold, take action to warm them up, including turning up the heat in your home. Bear in mind that cats with certain conditions, such as arthritis, might feel even more discomfort when it’s cold, and this can lead to changes in activity level and behavior too.Your cat starts shivering – Like people, cats shiver when they’re very cold, and this is a sign that you need to warm them up right away. But because this could also be a symptom of other problems, from illness and pain to stress and fear, be sure to determine if temperature is really the culprit.What To Do if Your Cat Is ColdThere are many ways to help your feline friend feel cozy and comfortable, such as:Give your cat a cozy bed and blanket in a warm spotWhen you see that your cat is feeling cold, give them a warm bed that they can rest in to warm up. There are heated beds that you plug in, as well as self-warming beds that work without electricity. Plus, there are heated pads that can be helpful in making your kitty feel cozy. And you can let your cat crawl under a soft blanket for extra warmth. Just be sure to use heated beds and pads as directed to prevent injuries. Let your cat relax in a warm area in the house, such as near a heat source or in a spot where the sunshine streams in during the day. Move your pet away from drafts.Snuggle with your catOnce your cat finds a comfortable spot on the bed or sofa, you can lie down next to them to help them warm up with your body heat. They’re sure to love the attention, and you’ll get to be near your purring feline friend.  Put sweaters on your catAs long as your kitty doesn’t mind wearing clothes, you can use sweaters to keep them warm on chilly days. This is especially useful for hairless kitties. And you can use clothes to keep your cat warm while exploring the outdoors with you.Protect cats who spend time outsideIf your pet is an adventure cat who goes outside with you, or an indoor/outdoor cat who goes out on their own, check outdoor temperatures first. Generally, it’s best to let them spend time outside only when it’s at least 45°F (7°C), but every cat is different, so some might only feel comfortable when it’s even warmer than that.Whenever it’s cold, raining, windy, or snowing, keep them indoors until the weather clears and warms up. Remember, cats who are cold or wet for too long are at risk of frostbite and hypothermia.Note: If you have an outdoor cat, they’ll look for shelter to stay as warm as possible, so give them a safe and dry outdoor enclosure that will protect them from the elements if you can’t bring them into your home, which would be preferable.Check Out These Products That Help Cats Stay WarmHere are a few products we recommend for keeping your cat warm: K&H Thermo-Kitty Bed Deluxe Hooded

Pretty Plants that Will Stop Cats from Pooping in Your Garden

Whether you own a cat or neighboring felines like to frequent your backyard, chances are you have come across half-buried cat poop in your flower beds. Cat lover or not, you probably weren’t thrilled to discover these unsightly deposits in your garden.Although cat poop won’t harm your garden, it also won’t add much to the overall appeal of it either, especially if the cats decide to dig their own toilets in the middle of your flower patch. In addition to preserving the aesthetics of your garden, there are several other reasons you may want to stop cats from pooping in your backyard. Keeping cats away will ensure the garden stays clean and safe for young children to play in. Plus, it will help protect wild birds that visit your garden, especially if you have a bird feeder or two.Besides being unsightly, cat poop in the garden can carry a parasite, called Toxoplasma gondii, which is particularly dangerous to pregnant women and unborn babies. For this reason, it’s super important that you wear gloves when you clean cat poop from your garden. As an added precaution against nasty infections, always use gloves when gardening.Are you sick and tired of cats using your garden as their personal toilet? There are several things you can do to preserve your outdoor oasis that don’t include the use of cruel booby-traps or startling devices.All you have to do is buy the right plant - one that cats hate but will look great in your garden. Although technically a weed, the curry plant is one of the best plants to deter cats from pooping in your garden. Scientifically known as Helichrysum italicum, the curry plant is a small, bushy evergreen shrub with linear-shaped silver-gray leaves. The leaves have a strong odor, reminiscent of curry, that acts as a potent cat deterrent. When a cat brushes against a curry plant, its leaves release a strong odor that attacks a cat’s sense of smell. Plus, the curry plant also has a coarse texture that cats hate. Many gardeners agree that curry plants act as excellent cat deterrents saying that cats stopped pooping in their gardens after they planted curry plants. Since the curry plant is essentially a weed, plant it sparingly so it won’t spread and take up too much space. If, for whatever reason, you don’t want to plant curry plants in your garden, plant lavender instead. A popular ornamental plant, lavender has pretty purple flowers and a delicate and sweet smell with herbal undertones. It’s that delicate smell that will help keep cats away from your garden!Cats have more than 200 million odor sensors in their noses and anything that emits a strong smell, like lavender, will be off-putting. Luckily, lavender is easy to grow and you can plant it in any part of your garden or containers. This gives you the freedom to plant lavender exactly where the cats like to poop to deter them. Many cats also dislike the smell of rosemary, rue, pennyroyal, citronella, oregano, geraniums, lemon thyme, and coffee. Any of these plants can act as a natural barrier and discourage cats from entering your garden and using it as a toilet. Although there are other ways to deter cats from pooping in your backyard, planting plants is an entirely natural and non-toxic option that isn’t harmful to the cats or you. It’s also cost-effective and aesthetically pleasing. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

AI Could Match You with a New Furry Friend Based on Personality

In a cutting-edge study, scientists specializing in canine behavior have used artificial intelligence to predict dog personality types. A multi-disciplinary research team has developed an AI algorithm that simplifies the painstaking process of evaluating canine personalities.Understanding a dog’s temperament is key not only for pet owners but also for training agencies and professionals working with working dogs. The study, which introduces a brand-new method of predicting and categorizing dog personalities, is published in the eminent journal Scientific Reports. The team that developed the algorithm hopes that it will more quickly and accurately evaluate which dogs are better suited for long-term careers, such as assisting people with disabilities and helping law enforcement. This new approach to predicting dog personalities could also be used to match owners with a new furry best friend. The new AI algorithm can help shelters place dogs in the right homes, thus reducing the number of dogs returned for not being the right fit for their adoptive families.Before this algorithm, canine behavioral experts used questionnaires and statistical analysis to determine a dog’s personality.  The AI algorithm uses data from almost 8,000 responses to the commonly used Canine Behavioral Assessment and Research Questionnaire (C-BARQ). The C-BARQ questionnaire has been the top resource for evaluating working dogs in the past two decades. â€śC-BARQ is highly effective, but many of its questions are also subjective,” said James Serpell, a professor of ethics and animal welfare emeritus at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. “By clustering data from thousands of surveys, we can adjust for outlying responses inherent to subjective survey questions in categories such as dog rivalry and stranger-related fear.”The team’s new AI algorithm gathers the responses to C-BARQ questions into five main categories that essentially form the digital personality of a dog. The results showed five distinctive personality types among domestic dogs, including excitable/attached, anxious/fearful, reactive/assertive, aloof/predatory, and calm/agreeable.The study was conducted over two years by a multi-disciplinary research team consisting of Dr Mohammad Amirhosseini of the University of East London and Professor James Serpell of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. The research was sponsored by Dogvatar, a Miami, Florida-based canine technology startup.“This innovative AI-based methodology holds promise for revolutionizing the selection and training of dogs for specific roles, both for working and non-working,” said Dr Amirhosseini. Almost 50 percent of people who surrender their dogs to animal shelters in the USA say that behavioral problems are a contributing factor, and nearly a quarter say that those problems are the main reason for giving up their dog. More research is needed to understand the nuances of canine personalities. However, researchers hope to promote strong bonds between people and their dogs by designing effective training programs and customized dog-owner interactions. According to researchers, these findings could serve as a foundation to explore personality matching between dogs and their owners and how that might improve the quality of their relationship.Dogvatar and the research team plan to conduct further research into potential uses for their dog personality testing algorithm.“This has been a really exciting breakthrough for us,” said Dogvatar CEO Piya Pettigrew. “This algorithm could greatly improve efficiency in working dog training and placement process and could help reduce the number of companion dogs brought back to shelters for not being compatible. It’s a win for both dogs and the people they serve.” Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Holiday Gifts for Your Cats: Tips and Recommendations

Your cat is a member of your family, so why not include them in the gift giving tradition of the holidays by getting them something special? With a wide range of pet products on the market, you can find an item that your kitty is sure to love, and you can make sweet memories in the process. Whether you have a stocking for your furbaby or you plan on wrapping a little gift for them, here are some holiday gift ideas for cats to help you get started.

After 11 Long Years, a Cat That Was Presumed Dead Returns Home

Sometimes, miracles can truly happen when you least expect it! And if a pet story can be considered a real life miracle, it’s the one about Toby, a family cat that - it would seem - lived a life of great adventure. In 2012, Toby, the now 14-year-old cat of the Allan family from Warwickshire, suddenly disappeared after the family moved to a new house. It was a heartbreaking event for the entire family, but their pet was nowhere to be found. After many attempts to locate their cat, they simply had to come to terms with the fact that old Toby was lost, and presumably dead. But this week, after 11 long years, Toby was returned to the Allan family by a local woman. The lady checked the cat’s microchip and was quick to get in touch with Coventry Cats Protection."I never thought in a million years I’d see him again," said owner Justine Allan. "Toby was collected and will no longer have to scavenge for food and sleep in a cold bin store," added the Coventry charity co-ordinator Wendy Harris.Toby suddenly went missing in a chilly December in 2012, after the Allan family moved from Galley Common in Nuneaton, to their new residence at Long Shoot."[My son Charlie] was about 12 when Toby went missing, and he was heartbroken when we realized he probably wasn’t coming back," said Mrs Allan for  Yahoo "The Long Shoot is a notoriously busy road, we just assumed the worst had happened and thought he had been run over.”But almost a decade later, just 5 miles away a local Bedworth lady got in touch with Cats Protection, believing that a stray cat she was feeding was pregnant. A volunteer with the charity went out to investigate, a microchip scanner in tow. "It turned out, not only did it have a chip, but that he was a neutered male named Toby, rather than female as originally believed," said Ms. Harris.Blazingly fast, the charity managed to trace the details of the Allan family on their database, and got in touch to share the splendid news – their missing feline friend was re-discovered!Initially in complete shock, after 11 years, the Allan family rejoiced and celebrated and quickly went out to pick up their long-lost pet. During those 11 years, the family welcomed another pet into their home, a King Charles Cavalier named Bernie. But even so, Toby fits right back into the family dynamic. As if he wasn’t missing for more than a decade!

Watch This Brave Cat Save Her Dog Sibling from a Coyote Attack

Who said that there is no love between cats and dogs? This touching story proves that some bonds between a cat and a dog are so strong that one would risk their life for the other! The event took place in Edmond, Oklahoma, where a tiny pooch was miraculously saved from a vicious coyote attack– by none other than a feisty cat. At first glance, Oakley, a white Havanese dog, and Binx, a black cat, seem to belong to completely different worlds. But even so, they are family. Lane Dyer, the owner of the two, explains for Oklahoma News how the attack - and the daring rescue - came to be.“I was kind of inspired by it, quite frankly,” she said. The event occurred on November 30th, when the 6-year-old Havanese dog, Oakley, was let outside to go to the bathroom. “Out of nowhere she was attacked by a coyote,” said Dyer. Soon enough, another coyote came rushing.

Pregnant Dog Saved from Shipping Container by U.S. Coast Guard

Members of the U.S. Coast Guard Sector Houston-Galveston got a big surprise when they found a dog trapped inside a shipping container. While inspecting the containers, Lucas Loe, Bryan Wainscott, Jose Reyes, and Ryan McMahon heard scratching and barking coming from inside one of them. After bringing the container down to ground level—it had been roughly 25 feet up—they opened it to find an adorable dog desperate to get out.A Dog Rescued Against All OddsThe poor dog had been stuck in that container, which had junked vehicles and was set to be shipped overseas, for at least eight days without any food or water. How she got in there in the first place is a mystery, but they think she might’ve been in one of the cars that was put in the container.What makes this story even more incredible is the fact that there were thousands of shipping containers along with the one that the friendly dog was trapped in, so she’s very lucky that the inspectors heard her and rescued her in time. They named her Connie, and her story quickly went viral. She’s even referred to as Connie the Container Dog. A video posted on Facebook shows her rescue.According to a U.S. Coast Guard Heartland Facebook post, Connie was thrilled and grateful to be free, but she was also tired and hungry. She was taken to Pasadena Animal Shelter to be examined before being flown to Forever Changed Animal Rescue (FCAR) in the Washington, D.C. metro area. She was diagnosed with heartworm and was found to be underweight.A New Discovery: Connie the Container Dog Is PregnantAfter her rescuers noticed that Connie’s mammary glands were swollen, they worried that she’d given birth to and lost her puppies while she was trapped in the container. But an ultrasound revealed that she is indeed pregnant.Once she’s healed and ready to be adopted, Connie will be looking for a forever home. And her puppies will also be looking for homes once they’re old enough. In the meantime, she’ll stay with a veterinarian who will keep a close eye on her and make sure that she and her puppies are doing well.To keep up with Connie’s journey, you can follow FCAR’s Facebook page.You can also watch this video to see Connie and her rescuers:

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