Pet's Delight Blog

Aggression in cats is not uncommon. This problematic behaviour can come on suddenly or gradually. In most cases, it can occur when your first cat has to share space with a new cat. You may have adopted a new pet, and the introduction isn't going as well as you had hoped. Now you’re left with a stressful situation of cat-on-cat aggression.

Cats are considered one the most independent pets. Some people, especially those who do not live with one, may even find felines snobbish.

But this misconception needs to be corrected here and now. After all, many cats are not only loyal to their pet parents but are also quite affectionate to the people around them.

In this blog, we’ll list the 10 friendliest cat breeds​ and what makes them worthy of being considered man’s best friend.

A cat’s claws are versatile. They’re for catching and holding prey, climbing, digging, scratching, self-defense, and maintaining balance. So, keeping them groomed is absolutely essential. But can you groom or cut your cat’s nails on your own?

When you have a dog, your mealtimes and snack times can sometimes be less enjoyable when you’re in the same room as your pet.

Why?

It can be hard to ignore a cute pup with pleading eyes, wagging their tail while waiting for you to give them a morsel of your food. You’ll likely give your pet a bite when they start pawing at your leg, rest their chin on your knee, and let out a sad whimper.

Buying the right pet food is a small but meaningful action that shows you love your furry friend. With the right products, you can provide them with the nutrition they need to stay healthy, active, and happy.

The sounds a cat makes vary, from the recognisable meowing and hissing to the less frequent chirping and caterwauling. One other sound you probably find mysterious is the often misunderstood purring. Misunderstood because the low, rhythmic tone does not always mean your cat is content.

Can cats eat rice? What about shrimp or tuna? Is it okay to give them chocolate treats?

Ensuring your cat's health and well-being starts with proper nutrition. Unfortunately, not all pet parents know that some human foods can be toxic to their feline pals.

If you’re new to pet parenthood or have questions about what food is not good for cats​, you’re in the right place. This guide lists food items that felines should not eat, as well as those that they must only consume moderately to avoid harmful effects.

When dogs get bored, it can lead to all sorts of trouble. When they don’t get enough mental and physical stimulation, you have to deal with excessive barking, digging, and restlessness. You’ll end up with plenty of damaged items, such as chewed-up shoes and scratched doors.

Boredom in dogs can also cause anxiety and even depression over time.

Canines need a bit of variety and purpose in their daily routine. Left to their own devices, they’ll find ways to entertain themselves, and it’s rarely the kind of entertainment you’d like.

Fortunately, you can easily get the best toys to keep dogs busy in-store and online. With these options, your pet can enjoy the benefits of engaging in activities that stimulate them mentally and allow them to get some exercise.

Best Toys to Keep Dogs Busy

If you want to know how to keep a dog busy​ at home, start by getting the right dog toys.

Below are the best toys that can keep your canine friend busy, happy, and physically and mentally stimulated:

1. Treat-Dispensing Chew Toys

Dogs love to chew, which is why you’ll often see them munching on their toys, your shoes, and anything they may suddenly find interesting.

This innate behaviour helps dogs maintain good dental health and strengthen their jaws. It’s also a way for them to relieve stress.  

Getting a treat-dispensing chew toy is a great idea to keep your dog busy and engaged whether you’re at home or not.

This toy comes in different types. Choose a treat-hiding version if you want your pet to get a reward after playing. This option allows your furry friend to get a treat after they learn how to release it.

Kong Dog Toys have several treat-dispensing options that canines can chew on for hours.

Another type of popular treat-dispensing toy holds bully sticks, frozen snacks, and other treats dogs love. They need to figure out how to get the food placed inside it, which keeps them thinking for several minutes.

This type of toy can help reduce your pup’s anxiety when left alone. It gives dogs a safe, positive, and rewarding outlet for their pent-up energy.  

2. Slow Feeders

If you’re looking for dog toys to keep them busy​, slow feeders are excellent options. They help keep your dog occupied while slowing down their eating pace.  

Slow feeders are less challenging than interactive puzzles but make mealtimes more exciting. With this feeding device, your dog gets their food by nudging, licking, and pawing. Some canines can spend 15 to 20 minutes working through a slow feeder, which prevents them from inhaling their food in seconds.

As they get their food, they get their brain ticking and sharpen their attention. This turns mealtimes into little puzzles, which is especially great for dogs that need more mental stimulation.

Besides keeping your pet busy for long periods, a slow feeder allows them to do something meaningful and gratifying.

3. Interactive Puzzle Toys

This type of toy requires canines to solve problems or puzzles to get dog treats inside compartments. This fun device challenges your pet and helps them avoid boredom.

As mentioned, interactive puzzle toys are more challenging than treat-dispensing chew ones. As such, they are more mentally stimulating and can take up more of your pet’s time.

These toys come in various types and range from beginner to difficult levels. If you have a puppy, give them simple puzzle toys that they can figure out easily to get the treat. These products ensure they won’t get frustrated quickly.  

Once your pet gets older, or if you have an adult dog, give them more advanced-level puzzles. These devices can give them more challenging brain exercises.

The time your dog will spend playing with these devices will ensure they won’t do anything mischievous or damaging when they’re bored.

4. Fetch Toys

Playing fetch with your furry friend is one of the best ways to keep them active and, at the same time, bond with them.

You can play fetch with your pet with a classic tennis ball whenever you’re together. You can also consider getting rolling or bouncing toys that move unpredictably when nudged, which dogs love chasing. Some even make noises or light up, which will pique your pup’s curiosity. You can find these dog products at most pet stores.

Your canine friend can still play fetch when you’re not around with an automatic, interactive ball launcher.

This unique device comes in different forms. The newer versions automatically release the ball and treat when the dog returns the ball.  

These toys tap into your dog’s natural instinct to chase, hunt, and retrieve even when you’re not around. They're especially handy on rainy days or when you’re busy but still want your pet to have fun and exercise.

5. Lick Pads

Lick pads are rubber or silicone mats with textured surfaces and grooves. You can spread wet dog food, plain yoghurt, peanut butter, and sweet potato or pumpkin puree on the mat, which your pet will lick.

The lick pad works as a slow feeder since your canine friend will spend several minutes licking or eating from it.

As your dog licks the pad, they’ll reduce their anxiety and stress. It serves as a form of entertainment and distraction that helps them overcome their boredom.  

Some products combine a lick pad with a slow feeder plate or bowl, which gives your pet food options. This design encourages your pup to take smaller, more frequent bites and avoid inhaling their meal.

When introducing this toy to your pet, put it away immediately once they’ve licked it clean. This will teach them that the mat is only for licking and is not a chew toy, which they may destroy.

6. Toys for Tracking Games

Tracking games are fun ways to keep your dog busy, tap into their instincts, and enhance their sense of smell.

Dogs use their noses to make sense of the world, so scent-based play can be fun and enriching for them.

Hide treats and toys around the house or garden and let your pet look for them. You can also hide scented toys in more challenging spots for a real nose workout.

If you’re looking for a toy that can let your pup forage for hours, get them a snuffle mat. This product allows your dog to root around to find hidden treats.

As your pet sniffs, hunts, and navigates challenges, they can get a mental and physical workout that keeps them occupied for hours.

Consider getting at least one toy from each type if you want to ensure they have fun and are mentally and physically stimulated as they stay busy.

Helping Your Pet Get the Most From Their Toys

Now that you know how to keep dogs busy at home​ with the right toys, help them get the most benefits from these products with these tips:

1. Buy only good-quality toys.

Look for trusted brands offering products made of durable, non-toxic materials that last long. When your pet has good-quality toys, you can be sure they won’t swallow and choke on small parts accidentally.

2. Ensure the toy is appropriate for your pet’s age and breed.

Matching toys to your pet’s size, breed, and life stage makes playtime safer and more rewarding. Keep in mind that a tiny squeaky toy might be perfect for a chihuahua but dangerous for a Labrador. Chew toys meant for an adult dog could frustrate a young puppy or bore a senior.

3. Rotate your pet’s toys.

Change your dog’s toys every two or three days to keep them interested in their playthings and the activities you prepared for them. Rotating them ensures they won’t get tired of playing with the same things repeatedly.  

Although you have all the items you need to keep your pet preoccupied when they’re alone, remember that playing and spending time with them is also important. As such, squeeze in playtimes with them daily, even if you have a busy schedule.

Contact us when you need help getting the right toys for your canine friend.

Every second counts in a pet emergency. Although you can take your pet straight to the emergency room of a veterinary hospital or clinic, administering basic first aid can be lifesaving for your beloved dog, cat, rabbit or horse.

What do you do when your pet ingests poisonous leaves, shows signs of shock, or exhibits symptoms of heatstroke?

Before we go over the particulars of giving first aid for your pet, it’s important to follow fundamental practices to help you do what’s right.

What are the 4 Rules of Pet First Aid?

We understand how alarming it is to see your beloved pet in distress or injured. You’ve given them the best possible care, after all, from giving proper nutrition for your dog  to getting the best horse health care products for your purebred Arabian.

Whatever pet you’re taking care of, these are the four rules to giving them first aid.

1. Stay calm. Most pets will sense your anxiety and may react accordingly. When you’re calm, your pets won’t be alarmed and you’ll also have the presence of mind to do what is necessary.
2. Assess the situation. If the situation is dangerous, move yourself and your pet to safety. Pain, fear and confusion can make even the gentlest pet react aggressively; if you’re caring for a dog, apply a muzzle, making sure not to obstruct their airway.
3. Check their breathing and airway. If your pet isn’t breathing, perform pet cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
4. Get help. If you’re not certain how to do CPR or any other pet first aid procedures, get someone who does, or head straight to the nearest veterinary clinic.

First Aid for Common Pet Emergencies

In the UAE, some of the more common emergencies veterinarians deal with are heat-related conditions, such as heatstroke and dehydration. Other emergencies include shock, exposure to toxins or poison and choking.

Follow these simple steps to administering lifesaving treatment for your pet.

Heatstroke

Some signs of heatstroke include excessive drooling, heavy panting, weakness, vomiting or diarrhoea. If your pet is exhibiting these symptoms, take them somewhere cool. 

Use a sponge or spray your pet with cool water. Do not use cold water because this can prevent circulation, which can worsen their condition. 

Do not place a wet towel over their head since this will trap heat; place the wet towel under them instead.

Move your pet to a cool, well-ventilated area, and give them sips of cool water.

Once your pet is cool, take them to the vet for further treatment.

Shock

Following a heatstroke, serious injury or a frightening experience, your pet may fall into shock. Look for signs of dazed eyes, shallow breathing and nervousness. Some pets may also become unresponsive and quiet.

Keep your pet comfortable in a quiet, warm spot. If your pet is unconscious, take them immediately to the vet.

Poisoning

What is harmful to people will be harmful to pets. If your pet has somehow ingested cleaning products, for example, read the label and follow the instructions for exposure to the product. Take a photo of the packaging.

If your pet has eaten a part of a plant, take a photo of the plant. When it comes to poisoning or exposure to toxins, the immediate response must be a trip to the veterinarian. 

The photos of the product or the plant will provide your vet with information that will guide your pet’s treatment.

Never induce vomiting unless your veterinarian prescribes it. 

Fracture

Your pet may be suffering from a fracture if they’re limping or not moving at all. You may also notice swelling in the affected area. 

A fracture requires immediate medical attention, so bring your pet to the vet. You can stabilise the injury with a splint or bandage, but leave it to the vet if you’re not sure how to do it. An improperly placed splint may cause further injury.

When taking your pet to the vet, limit the risk of further injury by keeping them confined or still. Place them on a flat surface in a box (padded if you have one) with blankets to support the injured limb. 

A fracture is a broken bone, so your pet will vocalise their pain. Stay calm and continue to keep them confined to prevent additional injury.

Choking

A pet who’s choking will paw at their mouth or try to cough up something. Intervene by checking if something is lodged inside their mouth.

Grab a tweezer or a tool to pull out the object if you see it. Gently take it out, making sure not to push it farther down.

If you’re unable to take the object out, call your veterinarian ahead of your arrival. Let them know you’re bringing in your pet because they’re choking. This way, the clinic is prepared when you arrive.

For cat guardians administering medicine, your pet could choke because they may be getting too much liquid. A good tip to caring for your cat while they’re sick is to give their medicine in small amounts. Let them swallow it before giving more. This way, the process isn’t stressful for both of you, and you avoid an emergency situation.

Cuts and Wounds

For indoor pets who love to play around or outdoor pets who get into all sorts of mischief, they’re likely to get a cut or a wound.

Before applying any wound care product, clean the affected area first with your gloves on. Wearing gloves prevents cross-contamination. Use a tweezer to remove any debris and wash the surface with sterile wipes. Once the wound is clean, apply dressing.

If your pet is bleeding, apply pressure with a cloth to the affected area for three minutes. If the bleeding does not stop, take your pet immediately to the veterinarian clinic. 

Pile on more cloth instead of removing the first one you applied to prevent dislocating a blood clot that may have formed.

Burns

Burns may be caused by boiling water or hot cooking oil (thermal), by carpets or ropes (mechanical) and through pool chemicals or paint thinner (chemical). Whatever the cause, this type of wound is painful.

If your pet has chemical burns, take them straight to the vet. This type of burn is more serious than a thermal burn, so immediate medical care is crucial.

For all other burns, flush the affected area with cool water. This will limit the spread of tissue damage. 

Take your pet to the vet for further treatment. They may prescribe a topical ointment for the burn.

Seizures

A seizure is probably one of the most worrying emergency situations for any pet guardian because you’re not sure why it’s happening. Severe anaemia, exposure to toxins or brain trauma could cause seizures. 

Whether you’re looking after a horse or a cat, remember the first thing you should do in any emergency situation: stay calm. 

Keep objects away from your pet, so they don’t injure themselves. Do not restrain them. 

Time the seizure. At this point, it is all you can do because you can’t stop the seizure from happening; it must run its course.

Once the seizure stops, comfort your pet and keep them warm. If the seizure lasts under five minutes, call your veterinarian and ask if you should take your pet in for an exam. 

If the seizure occurs again, take your pet to the clinic immediately.

What Should Be in a Pet First Aid Kit?

Every guardian must have a pet first aid kit. 

When getting supplies for your dog, cat or horse, get them the following essential health care items as well.

• Bandages (gauze pads or rolls)
• Self-adhesive non stick tape for the bandages
• Digital pet thermometer
• Gloves
• Antimicrobial ointment or spray
• Eye wash or rinse
• Saline solution for wound cleaning
• Needleless syringe for administering medication
• Cold pack
• Cotton balls
• Tweezer for removing objects
• Eye dropper to flush wounds or give oral medication
• Scissors for cutting bandages
• Clean towel or padding when restraining pets
• Muzzle for a dog first aid kit

Check your pet’s first aid kit every six months to see if anything needs to be taken out or added. Ask your veterinarian for further advice on what else your pet may need in the event of an emergency.

Learn CPR for Pets

Learning CPR for pets is one of the best ways to care for your beloved animals. The Red Cross offers an online course for people who want to learn CPR for dogs and cats.

In general, the lifesaving treatment follows this procedure:

1. Check the airway and breathing. Then check for a heartbeat, if you can’t hear anything, start CPR compressions.
2. Place the heel of one hand over your pet’s heart and the other over your first hand. For deep chested dogs, place the heel of your hand over the widest part of the chest and for barrel chested dogs, place your hand on the widest part of the sternum.
3. Push hard and fast at the rate of 100-120 compressions per minute. Make sure the chest comes back up before compressing again.
4. Do 30 chest compressions.
5. Give rescue breaths. Gently close your pet’s mouth, extend their neck to open the airway. Cover their nose with your mouth, then exhale up until you see their chest rise. Then give a second rescue breath.
6. Do 30 chest compressions per 2 rescue breaths, until your pet starts to breathe on their own.
7. Continue to check for breathing and heartbeats every two minutes.
8. Take your pet to the vet for further treatment.

Prevention Tips for Pet Guardians

In some cases, an emergency may be prevented. With a few simple practices, from professional grooming to walking them at certain hours, you may be able to reduce the risk of injury or illness for your pet.

• Apart from getting your dog or cat health care products, take them for regular grooming, especially for hairy pets. Matted hair can hide fleas and skin irritation.
• Arrange a regular veterinary check up to ensure your pet is healthy.
• When temperatures spike in the UAE, ticks and fleas thrive in pets. So take your pet for regular parasite control before summer sets in.
• Make sure your pet’s space is clean, from their bedding to their feeding area. A dirty space becomes a breeding ground for bacteria and parasites.
• When taking your pet for a walk during summer, use pet booties. Alternatively, walk when the hour is cooler (e.g., after sunset)  and stay off pavements.
• Never leave your pet in the car, even when you’ll be gone for just a few minutes or even when the AC is on. Cars can retain heat even in the shade, and at extreme temperatures, your pet can get dehydrated quickly.

And as always, give your beloved pets the best nutrition, so they have the best defence against illnesses.

The Best Care for Your Furred and Feathered Friends

Pet’s Delight has the finest pet food and supplies you’ll need. 

We provide healthcare products for a wide range of pet animals, including dogs, cats, birds, horses, hamsters, fish, rabbits and reptiles.

Find your favourite pet brand and shop for your pet’s needs today.

Bringing a new pet home can be pretty exciting. Whether you’re adding a dog or cat to your family, the energy of having a new companion can fill your household with fresh warmth.

A pet’s playful antics and affectionate behaviours can add a sense of fun and spontaneity to your daily routine. Dogs and cats also have a way of instantly making you feel happier with their unconditional love, making them a valuable addition to your family.

Enjoying the joys of having a new pet, though, depends greatly on preparing your home properly for them. This means getting the right accessories and healthy treats for dogs or cats that help them feel comfy and happy in your home.  

Making your pet feel comfortable and happy in their new home also entails introducing them to your family – two-legged and four-legged members alike.  

Why Is Properly Introducing a New Pet to Your Family Important?

Properly introducing your new pet to your other dogs and cats is crucial for maintaining harmony in the household. Pets tend to be territorial and can become anxious when they experience a sudden change in their environment.

Your current furry friends may also feel stressed when they meet the newest member of your family.

Taking the time to introduce your new pet properly helps create a safe and comfortable environment for everyone. It allows your latest family member to build trust and form positive relationships at their own pace. It also helps prevent feelings of jealousy or competition, ensuring your home stays a happy place for both your current and new furry friends.

Failure to carry out this step correctly could lead to conflicts, behavioural issues, and even health problems among your pets, so take it seriously.

Vital Tips for Bringing a New Pet Home

Below are the top tips to follow when you’re welcoming a new pet into the household:

1. Set up a safe, comfy space for your new family member.

The first step in welcoming a new pet to your home is to create a safe, cosy space for them where they can relax and sleep. Start by buying a good-quality cat or dog bed so your furry friend can get enough rest day or night.

Make sure this area is far away from where you store your cleaning supplies and other products that are dangerous for pets. Keep these items inside locked cabinets or hard-to-reach places.

It’s best to separate this area from your other pets’ sleeping space so they won’t be overwhelmed or scared by your other four-legged family members.

2. Prepare your pet’s essential supplies.

Aside from a bed, you also need a few other things to make your furry friend feel welcome in your home.

These include:

• Pet crate or carrier
• Pet gates and partitions
• Food and water bowls
• Collar and ID tag
• Leash and harness
• Grooming tools and supplies
• Interactive, comfort, and training toys

If you’re bringing home a cat, get a litter box and a  cat tree or scratching post.

Make sure you also have the right cat or dog food at hand. It should be suitable for their age and nutritional requirements and meet their health needs if they have a medical condition.

You should also have a sufficient supply of your furry friend’s medications and supplements prescribed by the vet.

3. Bring your pet to a vet.

If you haven’t brought your new furry friend to a vet yet, make an appointment before the big day.

The vet will check your pet to ensure they are healthy and free of any illnesses or parasites that could spread to your current four-legged household members. The specialist will discuss your animal friend’s treatment plan if they have a condition, and their nutritional needs to ensure you give them the right food.

During the checkup, the vet can also give you advice on vaccinations, spaying or neutering, and any grooming needs your pet may have.

4. Inform your children of the newest family member’s arrival.

Kids, especially younger ones, can get pretty excited about having a new furry friend at home. However, they may not know how to take care of a cat or dog or interact properly with them, particularly if you don’t give them a lot of pet-sitting responsibilities.

Talking to your children before the pet arrives can help set expectations and keep everyone safe.

Discuss with your kids the new pet’s needs, such as food, grooming, and personal space. Explain that the dog or cat may need time to adjust to an unfamiliar environment, which is why they should be patient with them.

Remind your kids to be gentle with the newest member of your family so that they won’t hurt themselves or the pet.

You can also involve your little ones in buying food bowls, bedding, grooming supplies, training toys, and other essentials to help them feel involved in the process.

5. Give your furry friend space.

Once you bring your new pet home, give them time to become familiar with their new environment. This means avoiding rushing the entire process of introducing them to your household.

Let your furry friend stay in their designated space first, which you should have set up before their arrival. Make sure they have everything they need here, including their cat or dog toys and food and water bowls since you need to feed them here temporarily.

Observe your pet closely during this period. Take note of any changes in their behaviour, such as being afraid or nervous, when you or another person approaches them. You may need to take it slowly when going near them if you see these signs of distress.

If your furry friend is comfortable with you and the other persons in your home and is happy in their space, reinforce this behaviour by rewarding them with constant affection and praise.

But even if your pet is energetic and happy, don’t introduce them to their fellow furry friends yet. Give them more time to fully adjust to you and their new home.

6. Gradually introduce your pet to your entire household.

When you think your furry friend is confident enough to leave their space, give them a tour of your home. Show them each room and let them sniff around and circle the area.

While giving them a tour, teach them which places they can and cannot enter.

If you have a new cat, expect them to go and hide or stay in open closets, under beds, and dark areas when you give them the tour. Wait for them to come out before allowing them to explore the other rooms.

Avoid forcing your cat to leave their hiding spot since they’ll come out when they’re ready.

7. Use scents to introduce your pet to your other four-legged family members.

Before introducing the newest member of your family to your current furry companions, let them know each other’s scents first.

Doing so can help them become familiar with each other’s scents, which can reduce their nervousness and anxiety when they finally meet physically.

To do this, mix their cat beds and bedding or blankets together. Use their unwashed ones so these items retain their scents and your four-legged friends can smell them.

You can also rub a hanky or small piece of cloth over your new pet and give it to the others to sniff. Do the same with your current four-legged companions for the newest member to smell.

8. Keep in mind that dogs and cats require a different approach.

Dogs and cats differ in behaviour, which means you need to follow different steps and strategies for introducing them to your current four-legged family members.

How to introduce dogs to each other

If you have a new pup, choose a nearby park or open field for their first dog meeting. Have a companion hold the leash of each canine and allow the pets to see and smell each other.

Do the same if you’re introducing your pets at home. Keep the dogs on a leash and make sure the door or gate is open so they can leave the area when they feel scared or overwhelmed.

How to introduce cats to each other

If you brought home a cat, start the introductions by placing them in one area, but separate them from each other with a screen door or baby gate. If your new pet has their own room, open their door slightly so your other feline friends can see each other but won’t fit through the door.

If your cats are comfortable with each other, they’ll play through the door or gate and sniff noses. When you observe this, you can let them stay in one area. Prepare some cat toys so that your pets can play with each other.

9. Use positive reinforcement.

When you reward your pet’s good behaviour with treats and verbal praise, you encourage them to feel comfortable and cooperative around each other.

If your current pets remain calm or show curiosity instead of aggression when their new furry companion is around, immediately offer them a treat and some encouraging words. This reinforces the idea that good things happen when they mingle.

Rewarding your new pet for their calm and friendly behaviour can help them adjust more confidently to their new home.

Positive reinforcement strengthens the bond between your pets, helps reduce stress, and prevents conflicts. As such, be generous with these.

The Joys of Having a New Pet

Having a new pet in your home can be rocky at first. But with these tips, you can give them the welcome they deserve, and help them become a wonderful addition to your family.

Read more pet care tips on our Blog page.