An Easy and Inexpensive Way To Help Your Local Cat Shelter

This post is sponsored by Cat's Pride but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.

Our cats are a special part of our family. While one was a backyard stray cat, our other two were adopted from a local shelter. When we decided that we were ready to adopt after our beloved 19 year old cat passed, there was no question that we would go straight to a local shelter in search of the perfect cat for our family.

Through our various adoptions from the local shelter, we learned that it takes a village to operate a shelter. From the generosity of volunteers and donors to the hard work that goes into daily operations and maintenance, it's no small feat. Even if you don't plan to adopt a cat, there's an easy way you can help your local cat shelter.

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4 Ways To Manage Pet Odors

This post is sponsored by The Libman Company, but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.

Pets. We love them as if they were our children, but we could definitely do without the odors that come with them. Let's be honest. As cute as they are, pets can be stinky. As pet owners, one of our top concerns is always the dreaded odors that accompany our furry little friend.

We own three cats, so I totally get it. I am hyper aware of the odors that come with my cats, and the last thing I want is a guest to sniff out even the smallest of pet odors. In honor of May being National Pet Month, I'm sharing a few tips and tricks I employ to help manage those pesky pet odors

1. Keep your pet clean
Since cats clean themselves, this is a no-brainer for the most part. However if you are a dog owner, you should be bathing your dog regularly or having them groomed professionally. Bathing and brushing cats and dogs on the regular will go a long way to keeping your home smelling fresh.

2. Mop and vacuum regularly
Whether you have cats or dogs, this is a must! Most odors linger in carpets, on wood floors, and in furniture fabrics. Cleaning them regularly helps keep odors at bay. To help manage cat odors, I use The Libman Company's Wonder® Mop. The wonder mop lifts up to 20% more dirt using its powerful GRIPSTRIPS™. It features a power wringer that removes water from the microfiber mop head faster allowing you and your family to be back on the floor in no time.

The Wonder® Mop works on all surfaces including wood floors, linoleum, and tile floors and has a removable mop head that is machine washable up to 50 times. After that time, you can purchase a replacement mop head. It works great on hard-to-reach baseboards too!

3. Make the litterbox a priority
The litterbox accounts for most of the cat odor in our home. In addition to scooping it daily and doing a full emptying and cleaning weekly, it's essential to mop the area around which the litterbox is located. Debris collects around the outside of the box, and that often contributes to the unpleasant odor.

Also, deodorize the box by sprinkling baking soda into it daily after each scooping.

Receive a $3 coupon when you subscribe to The Libman Company newsletter.


4. Air out your house
If the weather cooperates, open the windows and let the fresh air in. Even in during the colder months, opening the windows nearest to the litterbox for just 10 minutes will make a big difference in the air quality of your home. 

Watch the  Wonder® Mop in action here:

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How You and The Litter For Good Program Can Help Save Shelter Cats

Everyone knows I love cats. From spoiling my own two cats to feeding neighborhood strays to donating to local shelters, I'm all about helping cats in need. Five years ago, we adopted our two cats, Sam and Jade, from a local no-kill shelter, and I couldn't imagine our lives without our precious little bundles of fur.

Operating a cat shelter is no small feat. From the thoughtfulness of the volunteers to the generosity of donors, it takes a village. Together, we can all make a difference.

But in our busy lives, we may not have the time to donate our help to a shelter and we may not have the financial resources to give a large donation. That's where the Litter For Good™program comes to the rescue (no pun intended!). Every time you buy a green jug of Cat's Pride® Fresh & Light® litter, Cat’s Pride will donate a pound of litter to an animal welfare organization across the United States. It's as easy as that! No need to visit your local shelter to help out.

It's as simple as picking up a green jug of Cat's Pride® Fresh & Light® litter on your next grocery store run. There's no need to adopt another kitten or cat (in case you're like I am and already have three!!).

I remember the first time we visited our local shelter to choose a cat. It didn't take long. There was a little black one who kept sticking her arm out and reaching for the girls. They asked if they could hold her. They loved the black kitten, and she loved them. They didn't want to hold any other cats. She was the one for them. I completed an application and learned a few days later that we had been approved.

By 2020, Cat’s Pride hopes to donate 20 million pounds of litter to shelters across America. You can help Cat's Pride reach its goal by purchasing Cat's Pride® Fresh & Light® litter, each time you re-stock your cat's litter.

Click here to learn more about the Litter For Good™ program and to find a store near you. You can also visit catspride.com/litterforgood and sign up for the free Cat’s Pride® Club to nominate a shelter to receive litter donation.

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The Health Benefits of Owning A Cat

Our family has two adorable and pesky cats. Jade is a gorgeous black cat, and Sam is our rambunctious striped tabby. Our lives have never been the same since we decided to adopt them. They both are little bundles of furry joy and a huge part of our family. But, owning a cat is so much more than having something to cuddle. Aside from the unconditional love, there are a myriad of health benefits when it comes to owning a cat. Cats make a perfect pet in any home. Put aside their playful personalities, the health benefits of cats are seemingly endless.

Here is what I have found to be the most beneficial health aspects of cat ownership.

Cats are Perfect Stress Busters

Did you know that stress can be reduced when you own a cat? Having a sweet little face to come home to is enough to make your heart melt. But, if you have had a long day in the office or out at work, cats can help you de-stress from the day. Their purrs can actually help soothe you if you have had a bad day. Plus, the feeling of stroking and grooming your cat is said to be good for your mental health.

Combating Loneliness

Those who own cats are often less lonely than those who live on their own. Loneliness can be bad for our emotional well being and overall health. So, if you live alone, having a cat can help you combat these feelings. They can be a positive boost to your mental health and your self-esteem.

Your Heart's Health is Increased

Cats are a great way to improve your cardiovascular health. Just the act of petting a cat can lower your blood pressure which is beneficial to your cardiovascular health. And playtime with your cat means that you are often getting light exercise.

But in order for you to benefit from your cat, your cat needs to be healthy. Feeding your cat a healthy diet is a must for optimal health. We choose only the best food, Hill's Science Diet®, for our cats. Hill's Science Diet is the #1 recommended brand of cat food by veterinarians.

Pet nutritionists scrutinize every recipe to ensure that your cat is getting the healthiest diet possible. Whether you have a cat with special dietary needs (weight control, urinary issues, hairball control, or something specific), Hill's makes a recipe to address your cat's specific needs.

When our cat Sam had urinary issues two months ago, our veterinarian recommended Hill's immediately. It's a special diet that he'll be on for life, and the veterinarian had the most confidence in a Hill's urinary formula to address Sam's specific needs.

Purchasing Hill's Science Diet formulas is easy with Amazon's Subscribe and Save program. When you join, you'll receive a coupon to save 20% off your first order and up to 15% off subsequent orders. You'll also receive free shipping on all orders. Get more information HERE. For this busy mom who doesn't always have time to trek to a specialty pet store, Amazon's Subscribe and Save is a true lifesaver. Just a few clicks, and cat food is delivered to my door within a few days.

Pets have the ability to transform our lives, so should we transform theirs by taking the absolute best care of them, starting with their diet? Cats are not just lovable companions; they are the best at keeping you healthy. There are physical, mental and general health benefits to owning a cat. They are the best companions to have, and they can truly make your family and you feel complete.

Don't have a cat? Hill's Science Diet offers recipes for dogs too.

Every little time saver counts. Will you use Amazon's Subscribe and Save program for ordering Hill's Science Diet pet foods? Check out how to join here.

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3 Signs You're A Crazy Cat Lady #MyGreatCat

 

I am unapologetically a crazy cat lady. I eat, sleep, and breathe cats. My cats, Sam and Jade, are everything! They are the sweetest little fur balls. What I love most about them is how different their personalities are. Sam (the tabby) is our rambunctious one. He's full of energy and incredibly vocal and clever. Jade is our docile one. She's aloof and wants attention on her terms only, a typical cat.

Sam and Jade

They are perfect in their own ways, and I wouldn't trade them for anything.

Click HERE to get this coupon.

Can you tell I'm 100% crazy cat lady? I am, and I wholeheartedly admit it. In fact, I'm completely proud of it. Can you tell?

You might be a crazy cat lady if...

1. You go to a party and end up hanging out with the host's cats.
Yep. That's where you can usually find me. I have to admit that cats have a way of seeking me out. I'm like a magnet for cats.

2. You have more cat-related t-shirts than any other type of tees.
And you actually wear them! Right here. This girl. I wore a cat t-shirt recently to go walking one morning when we were camping. I think my sister thought I was joking, but we crazy cat ladies know that I wasn't.

3. You feed your cats better than you feed yourself.
When it comes to my cats' health, I spare no expense. They get the best food and the best medical care. I recently started feeding both Sam and Jade Purina ProPlan canned wet food. You can grab a coupon to get one FREE can when you buy 5. Purina ProPlan combines exceptional taste with a variety of textures and proteins to offer your kitty the most nutrition possible.

Did you know that wet cat food is an excellent way to keep your cat hydrated? Giving your cat wet food in addition to water is one of the best ways to maintain the proper level of hydration. For more ways to keep your cat properly hydrated, click here.

All Purina Pro Plan formulas are high in protein and feature real meat, fish, or poultry. Many Purina offerings include some type of pasta, rice, vegetables, and/or cheese to complement the protein offerings. I love the Purina products are backed by over 400 scientists including veterinarians, nutritionists, and behaviorists. I know I'm giving my beloved cats the best possible food I can.

If you are a cat owner, be sure to give Purina Pro Plan a try by downloading this coupon. You get a FREE can when you purchase 5 cans. Purina makes several formulas designed for the specific nutritional needs of your cat. Find out more here.

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3 Ways To Take Your Cat On An Adventure

 

Cats aren't known for their sense of adventure. By nature they are sleepers. They can doze for up to 18 hours a day. But regular activity and adventure is a must to keep your cats happy and healthy.

But just how do you do that? Getting a cat moving can be a monumental task, even on the best days. My cats love to lounge, and they do it remarkably well, as do most cats.

June 15th is National "Take Your Cat On An Adventure" Day. You don't have to go far or plan anything grand to provide adventure for your cat. It can be something as simple as purchasing a new toy and having fun for a few hours. You know how cats just love anything new!

How can you provide adventure for your cat on June 15th? It's easy. Here are a few simple and inexpensive ways to give your cat the adventure of his or her life.

1. Buy a new toy and enjoy some one-on-one play time with your cat.
Don't just place the toy in front of your cat. Grab it and give it a throw across the room or tease him with it.

We recently purchased this cat tunnel at our local dollar store, and our cat Sam loves it! He'll hide in it, sleep in it, and run through it.

2. Venture outside with your cat.
If you have an indoor cat, buy a collar and a lead and get moving with him or her! It'll be fun for both of you. If your cat is an indoor/outdoor cat, accompany him while he's outside. Let him take the lead and you follow along for fun.

Our cat Jade loves the great outdoors. She loves to try to sneak out to have some tree climbing fun with Harper.

3. Open up a window and bring the outdoors in.
We have a lot of trees around our house, and the creatures living in them provide hours of entertainment for our cats. From birds to squirrels to bugs, our cats love sitting in the window and enjoying the views.

Just like people, cats need proper fuel for their adventures. Purina Pro Plan has a formula that's right for your cat and his dietary and nutritional needs. Take the pet quiz to find the formula that's ideal for your cat.

When I took the pet quiz, I received an email with details of the recommended formula and how it will be beneficial to my cats. When you complete the quiz, you'll receive a $5 coupon to apply towards the purchase of the Purina Pro Plan that's recommended for your cat.

How do you create adventure for your cat? Don't miss these other ways to create adventure for your cat.

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Eliminate Litter Box Odors with Fresh Step Total Control with the Power of Febreze

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #yougottabekittenme #CollectiveBias

Everyone knows I love cats. But what you may not know is that I despise the smells that come with cats, particularly the litter box odors. Sure there are plenty of inventive ways to disguise litter box odors from air fresheners to baking soda to fragrant candles. But at the heart of the odors is the litter.

A good litter not only neutralizes odors but also prevents the growth of odor-causing bacteria. We have two cats who make great use of the litter box. Since cat urine has a strong ammonia smell, it's crucial to find a litter that stops ammonia in its tracks so your entire house doesn't reek of ammonia, which can become very strong very quickly.

On a recent shopping trip to Sam's Club I found Fresh Step Total Control with the Power of Febreze,  a product that is exclusive to Sam’s Club. I couldn't wait to give it a try. Fresh Step Total Control with the Power of Febreze contains Borate Technology which provides superior ammonia control to keep your home smelling fresh and ammonia-free. The litter has a lemongrass citrus scent that is light and fresh and the added power of Febreze controls odors effectively.

Cat litter is one of those items that I seem to buy every time I am at the grocery store, and before I know it, it's gone. I was thrilled to see that Fresh Step Total Control with the Power of Febreze comes in a 42 lb. bag and is easy to transport and carry. It even has a built-in handle for easy carrying.

Sam's Club members can save $3.50 off the purchase of Fresh Step Total Control with the Power of Febreze from 5/11 - 6/5. This offer is already loaded to your member card and offered through the Instant Savings Book. Members can find more information about this offer through club signage, in the booklet mailed directly to members and on samsclub.com.

Navigating Sam's Club can sometimes be a challenge. However, all aisles are clearly marked, and it was easy to find the aisle dedicated to pet products.

Cat litter isn't just for cats! I loved the lemongrass scent of Fresh Step Total Control with the Power of Febreze so much that I decided to use it around the house. Not only does this cat litter smell great, it also looks pretty. I wanted a way to display the litter and be able to smell it too.

I had an empty glass hurricane lying around the house. If you don't have one, you can buy one at a craft store. I washed it so it was nice and clear.

I filled it one quarter of the way with Fresh Step Total Control with the Power of Febreze. As I was pouring the litter, I could smell the lemongrass citrus scent. To level the litter, give the hurricane a gentle shake.

Once the litter is level, place your candle in the center of the hurricane.

Light the candle and enjoy the scent and the ambience!

Part of my participation in this campaign included a charitable component. I was generously offered $100 to donate to my favorite shelter. We adopted both of our cats, Sam and Jade, from Point Paws. After our first visit to Point Paws four years ago, we knew immediately that this was the shelter for us. The volunteers were so friendly and passionate about the cats they were caring for. Sam and Jade have brought so much joy to our family that giving to Point Paws was the obvious choice.

The volunteers at Point Paws were beyond grateful for our thoughtfulness and generosity. I know the money will be well allocated and the cats will be taken care of with love.

Do you have any creative ways for using cat litter around the house?

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Help Morris The Cat Celebrate #RespectYourCat Day

Today is pretty much the most  impurrtant holiday of the year (yeah, I just went there!). It's Respect You Cat Day, and I'm celebrating by attending a blowout party on Twitter with Morris The Cat.
Tonight, join me and other cat lovers from across the country for the most cat-tacular evening of the year, filled with informative tips on how to treat your cat like royalty, all the cute Internet cat photos you can handle, and fun surprises galore! For more information and to RSVP, click here: http://tweetvite.com/event/respectyourcatnight.

Come and join in on the fun and furry festivities!

Here's how you can participate:

1. RSVP to this event (http://tweetvite.com/event/respectyourcatnight)

2. Between 8pm & 10pm (ET) / 5pm & 7pm (PT), log on to Twitter and search on the hashtag #RespectYourCat to join the conversation. Tweet along using the hashtag #RespectYourCat. 

Calling all cat lovers: I'm paw-tnering with my pal, Morris the Cat for the most important day of the year: Respect Your Cat Day on March 28!

How do you show love and respect to your cats? Leave a comment below.

 I can't wait to see you all at #RespectYourCat Night on Monday, March 28, from 8-10 pm ET (5-7 pm PT). 

Don't forget to RSVP here to join the fun:  http://tweetvite.com/event/respectyourcatnight

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A Nutritious and Delicious Cat Food Your Cats Will Love

If you own a pet, you are well aware that they easily become a member of your family from the moment you bring them home. Our two cats, Jade and Sam, are like children to me. So, it only makes sense that I would want the best for them just as I do for my daughters.

From food to toys to shelter, our furry friends deserve the best just as we do. So, when I recently discovered Purina Pro Plan's Shredded Blend cat food, I couldn't wait for Jade and Sam to give it a try. Purina Pro Plan's Shredded Blend is a dry food that combines shredded chicken or salmon, probiotic fiber, and omega fatty acids into one savory cat food that tasty and nutritious.

Since our cats are true poultry lovers, we tried the shredded chicken and rice blend. Chicken is the number 1 ingredient, which is one of the reasons I wanted to our cats to try Purina Pro Plan's Shredded Blend.

Cats are notoriously finicky. I am always hesitant to introduce any new foods or snacks to Jade and Sam for fear that they will immediately resist. But I was pleasantly surprised when I gave them Purina Pro Plan's Shredded Blend cat food for the first time.

They both had to check out the bag and give it a once over before proceeding.

Sam was definitely cautious. He approached the bag and circled it a few times as he smelled it. He most certainly recognized that it was a new type of food, and he was more interested in inspecting it than he was in eating it.

Jade smelled the open bag from across the room and came scurrying to her bowl. She wasted no time digging in and barely came up for air! She loved the Purina Pro Plan's Shredded Blend cat food.

But don't trust my cats' reactions to Purina Pro Plan's Shredded Blend cat food. See for yourself by picking up a bag or by reading the reviews of others who have fed this nutritious cat food to their cats.

I'll be sticking to Purina Pro Plan Shredded Blend cat food not only because it tastes good but because of its nutritional value.

• It's made of high-quality protein such as chicken.
• It's comprised of crunchy kibble and shredded pieces for a tasty mealtime experience.
• It contains Vitamin A and omego-6 fatty acids to help promote healthy skin and coat.
• It contains a natural prebiotic fiber to promote digestive health.

Purina Pro Plan Shredded Blend is available at PetSmart, Petco, and Amazon.

SEE WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING ABOUT PURINA PRO PLAN SHREDDED BLEND.

Stay in touch with Purina Pro Plan by following on social media.

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