If you’re like me and are trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle, you should also include your pet’s health and well-being.    That’s why it’s important to plan their annual checkups with the veterinarian and provide your fur babies with proper nutrition.   From the food you give your pet, to the kitty litter and cleaning products you use all play a role in the quality of care your pet receives.

Nutrition

When it comes to nutrition, you want your pet to have a well-balanced diet of dry and wet food.   There is a wide selection of pet food in the market.   It is your job to make sure the food you buy is healthy and safe for your pet to consume.

Additives and fillers are commonly found in pet food.   Look for labels that have no artificial additives or meat-by-products.   If you have the time to make your own pet food by boiling chicken and rice or even whisking a pumpkin purée, you deserve a medal.   

There’s nothing wrong with buying canned pet food.   There are holistic brands that although pricey, contain the right amount of vitamins and nutrients your pet needs.

Scoop and Discard              

If you’re a cat owner, the kitty litter you use should be dust-free and fragrance-free.   Overly scented kitty litter can be problematic for your cat’s health not to mention you will be breathing in the fragrance and dust when you scoop up the litter.     You and your feline friend will be better off if you switch to natural cat litter. 

 From crushed corn kernels to pellets made out of pine wood, there is a wide variety of natural cat litter to choose from.   I like Naturally Fresh kitty litter which is made out of crushed walnut shells.   The walnut shells have a pleasant odor and the litter can last up to three weeks.   

When it comes to disposing of litter waste, I use Litter Champ which is a tightly sealed bin lined with biodegradable bags in the inside.   In the past, I would use two sometimes three regular plastic bags a day to clean my cats’ litter boxes.   Now I only have to dispose of the bag when it gets full (twice a week) and secure a fresh one.         

                                    Litter Champ

If you’re a dog owner, consider using biodegradable disposable bags. Regular plastic bags take forever to decompose.   Investing in biodegradable bags are eco-friendly and you can buy them in bulk.

Cleaning Green

My final tip is to use pet-safe cleaning products when cleaning your litter pans and just cleaning your home in general.   Look for products that are plant-based and use essential oils for fragrance.    Another option is to make your own cleaning solution.   You can use baking soda, water, and add a little bit of lavender essential oil for fragrance 

To keep your house smelling fresh, you should avoid air fresheners that are full of chemicals and perfumes.   Using an oil diffuser is safe to use if you place your diffuser in a well-ventilated room and only use pure essential oils that are safe for your pet.   Avoid using oils like peppermint, eucalyptus, and tea tree oil that are highly toxic for cats and dogs.   When in doubt, do your research before you use an essential oil.   The fewer toxins you use to clean and deodorize your home, the safer you and your pet will be.  

So when you decide to adopt a pet, you’ve basically gained a new family member.   With the joy and love your fur baby brings, maintaining your pet’s health and well-being should be a top priority.   You can provide better nutrition for your pet by selecting pet food that is free of meat by-products and artificial ingredients.   And to keep your pet and home life safe, avoid unwanted toxins in the kitty litter or cleaning products you use.

What are some helpful tips when caring for your pet?   Share and comment in the box below.   

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