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Cat Litter

The ins and outs of cat litter From cleanliness to adopting greener habits Litter comes in all shapes, sizes, and consistencies, but one thing they all have in common is the ability to give our cats a convenient way to use the toilet. Cats are known to be very clean animals, constantly grooming themselves and staying away from dirt – unlike Bruno the Beagle. Indoor cats benefit the most from using a litter box, whereas outside cats might use it more sparingly. As a general rule, multiply the number of indoor cats with 1.5 to find out how many trays you need. For example, one cat needs two litter boxes (because they don’t come in halves), two cats need three litter boxes, and so on. It’s important to remember that even outdoor cats sometimes need access to litter trays – this is especially important during rainy seasons when outside areas are wet. Litter boxes are also important for older cats that struggle around freely and for cats that might get chased by dogs when they do outside. For outdoor cats, you can offer 1 litter tray for every 2 cats. The importance of a clean litter box For health and cleanliness, it’s important to manage your cat’s litter box. Why? Because if it gets too dirty and they refuse to use it, complications like bladder and kidney diseases or behavioural issues could follow. There are a few golden rules when it comes to cat litter: Always keep the tray clean and filled with litter between 3 to 6 cm deep. Keep the tray away from food and water as cat faeces can transmit toxoplasmosis, which presents a safety concern to pregnant women and immunosuppressed individuals. Give your pet privacy by placing the tray in a secluded spot. They will get embarrassed if you can see them while they’re doing their business. Choosing the right litter  Typically, litter substrates are either crystals or sand. Your cat might have a preference and not enjoy the feeling of crystals between their toe-beans. And sand might not stand a chance inside the confines of a tray when they try burying their waste. But it isn’t all about their preferences – health is even more important. Some traditional cat litters might contain harmful chemicals that cause pollution and are made of non-biodegradable materials. Just because you want the best for your furry friend doesn’t mean you should compromise on eco-friendliness. Eco-friendly litter can control odours and the formulas can be virtually dust-free, so as not to trigger allergies or asthma. There are also health benefits. Eco-friendly litter doesn’t have harmful pollutants that could harm your pet or damage the environment when you throw it out. The ins and outs of cat litter From cleanliness to adopting greener habits Bob Martin is committed to sustainability and the well-being of both pets and the environment. Enter the newly launched Felight Eco Cat Litter Tofu  (soya) and Felight Eco Cat Litter Corn Cob (maize). These substrates are biodegradable, free from harmful chemicals, fragrance-free, and are absorbent with instant clumping, which makes it easy to dispose of – responsibly. The pellets are small, resulting in less dust, and are paw friendly. Both are available in eco-friendly packaging that’s recycled and recyclable, ensuring that the entire product lifecycle is gentle on the planet. Felight Eco Cat Litter also functions as a natural germ and odour trap, making it an ideal ground cover for reptiles, rodents, and birds where absorption and smell control are important. If you’re passionate about your cat and the planet, make sure to choose eco-friendly pet care. Bob Martin’s Felight Eco Cat Litter range not only fulfils one of your cat’s most basic needs, but also plays an even larger role in contributing to a greener, more sustainable future for all. Learn more about Bob Martin and its products here.

Tips for Summer

SUMMER PET CARE: TIPS FOR A PET-FRIENDLY HOLIDAY SEASON The holiday season is around the corner, and we’re all excited. But have you thought about your pet’s summer holiday plans? Whether they’re joining you or staying behind, here are some of our top tips for a pet-friendly holiday season. Your pet is joining you on holiday  If your pet is with you, you can keep track of them and have peace of mind knowing they’re in your care. Travelling with pets can be a challenge, but a little preparation can help take the edge off for you and your fur baby. If you’re travelling by car  It’s important to make the journey as pleasant as possible for you and your pet. There are a few things you’ll need to consider before you head out: If your pet is prone to car sickness, avoid feeding them for at least six hours before the trip. Your pet will need to take many breaks throughout the trip to drink some water and stretch their legs. You’ll need to factor in stopping every one to two hours into your travel time. While it’s tempting to sedate your pet and have them sleep through the journey, this is dangerous. If you’re worried about their stress levels, opt for a calming agent instead. Bob Martin has a wide range of products for both cats and dogs. You’ll need to ensure your pet’s vaccinations are up to date and you’ll need to bring their vaccination records along. This is important as vaccination records are often checked at roadblocks, and you’ll need these on hand should there be an emergency. If your trip is longer than 12 hours, pre-book pet friendly accommodation along the way. If you’re travelling by plane  Some airlines allow you to transport your pet as manifested cargo. This means your pet would travel on its own flight booking, usually at the bottom of the plane where temperature and pressure is still controlled. Very rarely will pets be allowed to join you in your cabin, but exceptions do exist for guide dogs. To fly with your pet, you’ll need to check your specific airline’s requirements and it’s best to discuss the plan of action with your vet beforehand.  Remember to use a safe and reliable calming agent to reduce any anxiety your pet might have during flights. Bob Martin’s Calmcare range offers a variety of applications that are not only safe to use but will also give longer coverage. You’re heading out but your pet’s staying behind While technology has advanced and many automatic feeders are now available, your pet should never be left alone over an extended period. Accidents happen, so it’s important to have someone checking in regularly. Plus, they’ll love the interaction. Here are our top three options for pet care this holiday season: A house sitter or pet sitter  A lot of pets are homebodies and don’t like being moved around. Sometimes, it’s best to keep them in their safe space to avoid any unnecessary stress. House sitters or pet sitters are a great way to ensure your pet is cared for while you’re away. A house sitter will usually stay in your house for the time you are away, so your pet will have someone with them. House sitting is also a great way to ensure your home is cared for while you’re gone. Pet sitters usually just check in on your pet every day. This is a great option for pets who are more independent. Remember to do your homework and find a reputable house sitter or pet sitter and book them in advance, especially around the festive season. The kennels or cattery Most kennels and catteries are run by experienced individuals who have your pet’s best interests at heart. It’s also common practice for these organisations to send you regular updates so you can have peace of mind. Long-term stays often come at a discounted rate and your pet will be given plenty of attention. It’s important to research a kennel or cattery to ensure your pet will be in the best hands. You should inform the kennels or cattery of any specific needs your pet might have and provide them with emergency contact details. Remember to ensure your pet’s vaccinations are up to date and that they have been dewormed before taking them to the kennels or cattery. Most catteries and kennels require the following vaccines to be up to date: For dogs: 5-in-1 Rabies Kennel cough For cats: 3-in-1 Rabies Snuffles Friends or family  Friends and family are a great choice for pet care, especially if your pet already knows them well. If they have their own pets and you plan on dropping your pet off with them, make sure you socialise beforehand.

Deworming your pets

What you need to know about deworming your pets  Worms can infect cats and dogs of all ages, and they pose a risk to humans too. That’s why regular deworming should be part of your pet’s routine to take care of their overall health, as well as your own. Luckily, deworming your pets is an easy process that can be done at home with Bob Martin’s range of products. Worm infestations aren’t always easy to pick up, and your pet often won’t show any visible symptoms of an infection. This is why the South African Veterinary Association (SAVA) recommends deworming adult pets every 3 to 4 months just to be safe. Remember – prevention is always better than cure, but it’s worth knowing some of the common signs so you can start a treatment plan as soon as possible if your pet becomes infected. Common worm infestations and what to look out for There are many types of worms that can infect both pets and humans. These are the most common worm infestations found in pets and their symptoms: Roundworms are extremely common, particularly in puppies and kittens, and most pets will experience an infestation at least once in their lives. These worms live in the animal’s intestines and can be spread through various methods, making them highly contagious to both pets and humans. Symptoms to look out for in your pet include an extended abdomen (pot belly), poor coat health, coughing,  failure to gain weight, appetite loss, dark and tarry diarrhoea, and vomiting or retching. The worms are especially large in puppies, and, in severe cases, it may be possible to see worms coming out of the puppy. Hookworms are slightly more dangerous than roundworms and can also infect humans. These blood-sucking parasites are miniscule and very difficult to spot with the naked eye. Infestations can lead to blood loss and anaemia, and severe infestations are associated with life-threatening complications, especially in young or weak animals. Symptoms to look out for in your pet include pale gums, coughing, weakness, fatigue, and dark and tarry diarrhoea. Tapeworms are relatively harmless, and are usually a result of your pet swallowing an infected flea. This type of infestation often causes discomfort and, occasionally, weight loss and can be transmitted to humans. Symptoms to look out for include poor coat health, skin lesions, scooting, excessive licking around the anal area, and, occasionally, weight loss. Whipworms are intestinal parasites that usually live in the large intestine. They mostly affect dogs and can result in a variety of gastrointestinal issues. While whipworms can be transmitted to humans, the symptoms are rarely severe. Symptoms to look out for include chronic diarrhoea (sometimes with mucus or blood), weight loss, and fatigue. Where do pets pick up worms and can this be prevented without medication?  Your pets can pick up worms from many places. They could lick the ground or drink contaminated water, they could ingest infected fleas, they could pick up worms by scavenging or hunting, or by eating contaminated food. Worms can also be passed through the placenta before a mother gives birth or through her milk when feeding. Unfortunately, worms in pets are somewhat inevitable, even if you are cautious. While you can try to avoid high-risk situations, pets can contract worms from almost anything. Even indoor pets are susceptible to infestations as eggs can be brought in on your shoes and by other creatures like lizards, birds, rodents, and insects. Regularly deworming your pets keeps infestations at bay, giving you peace of mind knowing that your fur baby is happy, healthy, and worm free. What products to use and when When deworming your pets, it’s critical that you use the correct product at the correct time. This depends on your pet’s age and size, as well as the time of the year. Adult pets should be dewormed every 3 to 4 months with a broad-spectrum dewormer, especially if you take your pet out for walks or to parks and open spaces as worm eggs are often picked up in these spaces. Puppies and kittens should be dewormed monthly, starting at 4 to 8 weeks old until they are 6 months old. Generally, young animals are only treated with products for roundworms and hookworms as these are safer for them. This is also because they are usually too young for a tapeworm or whipworm infestation to have spread. It can be confusing to figure out what kind of product your pet needs. Topical dewormers don’t treat tapeworms, so, if you’re looking for a broad-spectrum product that treats all the types of worms mentioned in this article, an oral formulation is a better option. Bob Martin has a range of deworming tablets for cats and dogs of all ages and sizes. Tablets are convenient and can easily be administered or disguised within a treat. While oral formulations are recommended, every pet is different and it’s important to discuss deworming methods with your vet as they can assess your pet’s specific needs, consider their medical history, and provide tailored recommendations. The Bob Martin Clear+ range of deworming products has got something for every pet.

Is your pet feeling anxious? Here’s how to recognise the signs and help them feel better

Anxiety is not limited to humans – pets can also experience stressors that can be overwhelming and debilitating. The golden rule is that every pet is different, with some triggers affecting certain pets while others are unaffected. So, what causes anxiety, and what are the behavioural signs that your pet might be going through something? What causes anxiety? Like us, our pets’ stress results from many situations, including environmental, health or stimulus-related causes. It can also come about due to bullying, past mistreatment, separation anxiety, fear of the unknown, and moving house. Many owners report changes in behaviour after losing another pet in the household, or noise phobias caused by hairdryers, lawnmowers, or construction work. In cats specifically, being kept indoors, not changing the sand in a litter box, or not having a safe place to rest can result in anxiety. What are the behavioural signs of an anxious dog? Pets wear their emotions on their furry sleeves. If they’re feeling anxious, their behaviour will differ from how they usually behave. They might communicate this verbally or through their body language. Be aware of any behavioural changes or changes in routine, as this is usually the first indication that your dog might be experiencing anxiety. Being overly alert Dogs in an alert state will stand in one place, lift their front paw, and run around before taking the same stance again. They might stare without blinking with their ears forward and erect. Submissive behaviour It might be a sign of stress when they crawl closer and flop onto their backs to expose their bellies. Typically, they will pull their ears flat and keep their tails close to their bodies (wagging slightly or not at all). Anxiety The dog will crouch low with their front body lowered and shiver or shake. Other signs are squirming, slightly dilated pupils, pulled-back ears and grimacing with their teeth showing. Displaying Dogs will cower with their legs slightly bent and their fronts lowered. They will constantly scan the environment and will stare without blinking. They might even growl or snap when the person or object that’s terrifying them comes too close. Aggression A scared dog can quickly turn aggressive and might lie on the ground or run to find a safe place to hide. Their pupils will dilate fully, and they might pant, bear their teeth, or bite. What are the behavioural signs of an anxious cat? Cats don’t take kindly to changes in their routine and can become anxious when their environments change. The symptoms of stress and anxiety in cats are diverse and can be expressed through aggression, agitation, and destructive behaviour. Anxiety Unusual isolation is one of the first signs. They will lay with their legs tucked underneath their bellies or keep their legs bent while standing. The tail tip will also make slight movements, and their ears might be partially flattened. Slinking away When your cat senses a threat, it will try to move quickly without drawing attention to itself. They will keep their bodies close to the floor with their front legs extended and the tail close to the body. Ears will also be perked up in a listening position. Nervousness Crouching in slow movements, shaking and fast breathing are signs of nervousness. The cat’s tail will be positioned close to the body, and its ears will be flattened. Being scared Ready to defend itself, the cat will lower the back of its body while lying on its side or stomach. It will extend its front legs, and their tails might twitch wildly. Hissing, spitting, and growling are common signs. Reacting to terror When there is danger, cats will make themselves appear bigger than they are. It will puff up, lower its chest, and raise its behind. Fast breathing, dilated pupils, spitting, hissing and extreme vocalisation will occur. How to ease anxiety in pets If stress and anxiety is caused by environmental factors such as thunderstorms, fireworks, moving house, loud music or construction, it’s important to try and reduce the impact of these stressors on your pet. You can do this by: Removing your pet from the environment where possible. Placing them in a well-lit room with bedding that’s familiar to them, drawing the curtains to dampen any noise, and playing soft background music. Using calming agents such as Bob Martin Naturals Calmcare or Vetcare Calmcare. These come in tasty tablets, easy-to-apply spot treatments, and collars. Bob Martin’s calming products can be used long-term for pets that show signs of chronic stress and anxiety or behavioural problems, such as separation distress. The products are safe to use in young pets for weaning, as well as older pets. Identify the changes in your pet’s behaviour and lock down their triggers to help them live longer, happier lives.  
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