“Cats are so easy! You don’t have to walk them like a dog, they’re independent, and they don’t need a lot of attention. Set out a litter box, get a toy mouse on a string, and you’re good to go!” Thirty years ago when I got my first kitten as an adult, that’s pretty much what we all thought. They were seen as independent, easy, low-maintenance little creatures who mostly took care of themselves. What I know now, after 30+ years in animal wellness, is that to raise a kitten into a confident,...

It has been many years since I brought home my very first puppy, but I’ll never forget the experience. Back then, I did what most conscientious dog parents did. I followed my vet’s directions, researched the best dog food (Google-less, BTW), and did my best to provide a healthy life for my pup. I did the best I could with the information that was widely available at the time. But being in the canine wellness space for more than thirty years has given me a front-row seat to how dramatically...

If you have a cat who sniffs their bowl, looks at you like you’ve personally offended them, and walks away, welcome to the Fussy Cat Club. Fussy eating is one of the most common concerns cat parents bring into the shop. It can be SO frustrating! You’ve done the research. You buy good food. You just want them to eat and enjoy! Here’s the thing. Most finicky eating has a reason behind it. And once you understand why your cat is picky, you can work with them instead of feeling like you’re in...