TOP NINE SMELLS THAT CATS DON'T LIKE

WRITTEN BY XENA

At the very beginning of today's article, I would like to greet all of you, my faithful readers and those who will soon become so, and I would like to remind you that today, in addition to finding out which are the top nine scents that repel cats, we will also cover topics such as nail trimming and urinating at home and how to prevent it.

All of us owners of PETS, especially CATS, have encountered quite a few times that we PETS defecate in inappropriate places in the house. In addition, furniture often suffers from the nails of our cuddly creatures. As our four CATS are already adults, we have no problems with defecating around the house, because they have been taught to look outside when they have to. We got them a SCRATCHER for scratching, although sometimes they "sneak" to scratch an armchair or sofa. However, we solve this by shortening the nails.

However, with the arrival of the little KITTEN, about whom you had the opportunity to read in the "Christmas Fairy Tale", already somewhat forgotten problems appeared. As I mentioned in that story, the "fur ball" defecated wherever it went, sometimes because of illness, and sometimes because it was not taught where to do it. All this prompted me to research, in order to help myself and anyone with such problems. So read the solution. It's about smells that CATS don't like. As CATS use their sense of smell more in their activities than sight and other senses, it is good to know which smells they don't like, so we can use them to protect our living space and furniture.

The strongest of all scents that will repel your CAT is

• BANANA

The CAT is probably repelled by potassium, which is abundant, so my recommendation is - to try to polish the furniture with a banana peel, to prevent further destruction.

• CITRUS

CATS can not stand the smell of citrus fruits, especially: oranges, lemons, and limes, so you will protect your living space if you spray with a few drops of these fragrances.

• CERTAIN SPICES AND HERBS

Lavender, rosemary, mint, thyme, geranium (pelargonium), eucalyptus...

However, care should be taken with lavender and mint, because in larger quantities, even in the form of oil, they are TOXIC for CATS.

• HOT PEPPER

CATS will avoid it because they do not prefer spicy food.

• ESSENTIAL OILS

With them, you also need to be careful, because they can cause certain more severe reactions in CATS, but can be diluted in water and sprayed on the furniture. 

• MENTHOL, PINE, and CEDAR

they are usually ingredients in some cleaning products, so irritation is possible in CATS.

• AIR FRESHENERS, DEODORANTS, and SOAPS

they can also irritate the sensitive olfactory receptors of CATS.

• CINNAMON, PEPPER, MUSTARD, and CURRY

are very intense and spicy smells that CATS can not stand.

• CERTAIN TYPES OF FRUITS AND VEGETABLES

CATS do not like the smell of fresh fruits and vegetables, especially the smell of tomatoes, red onions, and garlic bothers them.

These are the scents that your PET will certainly avoid in a wide arc, and which will help you protect your furniture and living space. Personally, I a citrus-based perfume helped me, which I would spray on the places where our KITTEN liked to defecate, and it's up to you to choose and help yourself, without endangering your PETS.

     "We take care of our pets as for ourselves."

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A HAPPY CATSMAS FAIRY TALE

WRITTEN BY XENA

That Christmas magic really exists, I saw for myself. On that cold, winter morning in the pre-holiday season, God sent us an angel in the form of a tiny KITTEN. That was a really happy Catsmas Fairy tale!

As we hurriedly finished our pre-holiday shopping and rushed to the car, in the parking of a shopping center, we heard a piercing meow, which seemed to be coming from our car. That said, the cat's cry was calling for help and looking for "his people", who would provide him with a warm home and warm his frozen PAWS and tortured body and soul. 

We walked around the car to figure out where exactly the meowing was coming from and located it, that it was most likely under the hood. Fearing that he might be injured if he was caught by the car's engine, the husband fearfully raised the hood and saw an adorable, tiny "ball of wool" that literally fit in the palm of one hand. 

It was HIM - the cutest creature I've ever seen - a tiny, frightened KITTEN aged about 2.5 months. I took him in my arms and stroked him to warm him up and calm him down, which I succeeded in doing because he stopped crying. 

We decided to take him home, and then we will find him home since we already have our four CATS. 

Immediately after entering the living room, he ran to our oldest 16-year-old CAT, who was lounging in front of the fireplace and soaking up the heat. He probably thought she was his mother. However, our Tea rudely rejected him with her snorts and hisses, so he decided to move away. After satisfying his hunger with a nice cat "papa", he went to the SCRATCHING POST, where he slept for a few hours. 

Then came the bath. It wasn't exactly his favorite activity. He couldn't wait for it to be over, so he could go back to sleep or play with balls. It was a wonderful, already somewhat forgotten sight, because all our CATS are grown up and don't play with CAT TOYS often. Observing him like that, we realized that he reminds us a lot of our never regretted CAT Leo, who died tragically under the wheels of a car a few years ago. The similarity, which will be shown later, is not only physical but also in character. That's why we named him Leo. 

As far as I can see, he will be the same as his namesake - a true alpha CAT, warrior, and fighter. We fell in love with him at first sight and it was clear that we would not look for another home for him. Our home, we decided, would also be his. 

However, on the second day, our little "fur ball" started peeing all over the house, even though I showed him places with CAT PADS to defecate. He would stop by them, I guess only "when he made a mistake". And he peed quite a lot and often. The last straw was when, on New Year's Eve, in a house full of guests, he peed on the couch and then on the bed.

Nevertheless, we decided to keep it at least a little longer. If urinating in inappropriate places continues, we will take him to the CAT shelter in a veterinary clinic. And just as we were about to take him there, I burst into tears and couldn't tear myself away from him. I hugged him tightly, afraid that someone would take him from me. 

That's when it hit me - he must be sick. That's why he pees so often and profusely everywhere. I was right. Our "little one", although cheerful and playful, had a urinary tract infection and ended up on 7-day antibiotic injections.

Now it's great. He no longer pees everywhere, but only on his pads. He is still playful, overjoyed to have his warm home, his cat friends, who have already accepted him, and finally - his people, who love him immensely.

And I wonder: "What kind of people have the heart to leave such a small, honey KITTEN in the cold in front of a shopping mall?"

They probably wanted to get rid of it, because of the problem described above, hoping that some "good people" would pick it up and take it home. But that's just my guess.

What I want to point out is that ANIMALS are not stuffed toys and you don't have them, if you can't or don't want to take care of them!!!

Especially DO NOT BUY them, but if you have the opportunity and possibilities, provide them with a warm home by ADOPTING!!!

And to return to the beginning of the story, our little angel Leo brought us immense happiness and joy of Christmas, some inner peace and satisfaction, knowing that we helped a little being, saving him from certain death.

                         "We take care of our pets as for ourselves."

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TOP 10 BREEDS OF DOGS THE MOST ATTACHED TO THE OWNER

WRITTEN BY XENA

DOG- the best four-legged friend of man bears that title for a reason. Unlike CATS, which are tied to a particular territory, DOGS are social beings and as such, attached to their owner. This attachment and loyalty stem from the fact that certain BREEDS OF DOGS find it difficult to get used to loneliness because they are in the human company most of the time. 

The connection between DOGS and humans is visible throughout history, and in recent times it has come to the fore during this covid pandemic, as people have been more at home and spending their free time with their PETS, especially DOGS. When you are let down by family or friends and lose trust in people, your DOG will always be with you and for you. He will pick up a bullet for you, jump into the swollen river to save you, pull you out of the rubble… 

He is always there, and he needs so little, just a few delicious snacks, cuddling, and playing. Give it to him, and he will give you back many times over! His love for the owner is unconditional, primordial, and pure. And no rules apply here. There are only BREEDS OF DOGS that are more attached to their owner and those that are less so. In this text, we will talk about this first group. So, let’s get to know the DOGS most attached to their man and the top 10 BREEDS OF DOGS the most attached to the owner!

HUNGARIAN VIZSLA DOG

• HUNGARIAN VIZSLA DOG, whose full name is SHORT-HAIRED or SHARP-HAIRED POINTER DOG, originates from Hungary, as the name itself tells us. We could freely call it an aristocratic BREED because it was once bred as a BREED that accompanied the nobility and aristocracy on game hunts. They are very lively, fun, and active DOGS, who love the company of people and cannot stand being alone. They are protective of their owner. They are cuddly and friendly towards their family, which makes them favorite PETS if you give them time to play and train because they are happiest on long walks in nature. If you allow them to do so, VIZSLA will be the most faithful DOG in the world that will not separate from you.

GOLDEN RETRIEVER

• GOLDEN RETRIEVER originates from Scotland, and even two American presidents - Gerald R. Ford and Ronald Regan - owned a GOLDEN RETRIEVER. By the way, this is one of the most famous, popular, and favorite BREEDS of family DOGS. They are playful, highly intelligent, affectionate, and cuddly DOGS. They are great cuddlers, and this very feature of them will make you fall in love with them at first sight. They adore people, but they also love other animals and DOGS. They are very gentle, tolerant and have a good character, so they are suitable for playing with children. They are not aggressive, but calm and patient, loyal to their owner. Therefore, they are easy to train. They are fast and agile, they love walking by the water, and especially swimming. The GOLDEN RETRIEVER is a BREED that will adapt equally well to life in the house and apartment as well as to all family activities.

DALMATIAN DOG 

• DALMATIAN DOG  - also known by the names: FIREHOUSE DOG, SPOTTED COACH DOG, and CARRIAGE DOG, he gained great worldwide popularity for his role in the well-known animated film "101 Dalmatians" as a friendly and active DOG full of positive energy. In the US they are known as "FIREFIGHTER DOGS", and Sparky DOG is the mascot of the American Association of Fire Fighters. The name DALMATIAN DOG originates from Dalmatia, which is located in my homeland, Croatia, and is an integral, sovereign part of it. Ancient records preserved in Dalmatia speak of this, where these DOGS were used as wartime DOGS, DOGS for border patrols, and also for pulling carts. By the way, data from as early as 2000 BC tell us about their origin when DOGS similar to the DALMATIAN DOG appeared on Greek tiles and frescoes. These DOGS are active, playful, very affectionate, and loyal to their owner. They love company, play, and fun, so they require socialization, training, and a patient owner from an early age. They get along well with people, other DOGS, and animals in general.

COCKER SPANIEL

• COCKER SPANIEL Due to its loyalty to its owner, and cheerful and playful nature, it belongs to the most popular DOG BREEDS as PETS. They are very cuddly DOGS, with sensitive personalities who get along great with people and DOGS, as well as with other animals. They are alert and intelligent DOGS that love activity, so they are easy to train. What you should never do, if you are the owner of a COCKER SPANIEL, is to leave them alone because they cannot stand being alone. As this is a HUNTING DOG, daily walks and exercises are mandatory. It is interesting to point out that COCKER SPANIELS are divided into 2 types: ENGLISH and AMERICAN. The differences between them are manifested mainly in physical appearance and the fact that ENGLISH COCKER SPANIELS are more active, while the character traits are more or less the same.

BORDER COLLIE

• BORDER COLLIE is a BREED OF DOG that originated on the border between Scotland and England. They are also known as SCOTLAND SHEPHERDS, and they were bred mainly as shepherd WORKING DOGS. It is said to be the most intelligent BREED, as it can supposedly understand up to 1000 words, which according to some research means it has the intelligence of a 2.5-year-old child. They are very agile and fast, easily adaptable to all terrains and weather conditions. Although they are extremely loyal to their owner and family, they are not a good choice as a PET for families with small children, because it is in their nature to monitor everything that moves, including your child. In addition, it is very challenging to own this DOG, as they require a lot of activity, in order to prevent unwanted behavior and anxiety. This means if you intend to get a COOLIE, be prepared for a minimum of two hours of training, which will make him satisfied and happy.

HAVANESE DOG

• HAVANESE DOG These beautiful, gentle little DOGS originate from Cuba and are their national symbol. They got their name from their capital - Havana. By the way, it is believed that the small white DOG was found in the Mediterranean area (Tenerife), where it followed traders around the world and thus developed into different BREEDS. Arriving in Cuba, he became a HAVANESE DOG and soon became a favorite among the Cuban aristocracy and wealthy plantation owners. THE HAVANESE DOG BREED originates from BICHON, and by this, we mean CURLY BICHON, MALTESE, SMALL LION DOG, BOLOGNESE, and COTON DE TULEAR. Today's appearance of the HAVANESE is thanks to the crossing of the then-Havanese Silk Dog with other members of the BICHON family, and also with the POODLE. Affection, sociability, liveliness and a very intimate relationship with people and children are the characteristics that mark this DWARF BREED. HAVANESE is a DOG made for a family with a strong desire to please. He wants to be with his family at all times because otherwise, he can suffer from anxiety. It is a very social DOG that requires a lot of attention. He loves long walks and more physically demanding games. It is easy to train him using positive methods in the form of praise and giving treats, so he will enjoy such training.

AUSTRALIAN SHEPHERD (AUSSIE)

• AUSTRALIAN SHEPHERD This friendly WORKING DOG retains its herding instinct even as a PET. By the way, this BREED also plays a very important role in cases of rescuing and searching for people, as well as in the detection of drugs and other opiates. Its importance as a THERAPY DOG should certainly be highlighted. It is good-natured, although a bit reserved towards strangers at the beginning. Therefore, it is necessary to resort to socialization very early. He is characterized by: patience, playfulness, a friendly attitude towards children and other animals, including CATS, and a pronounced power of observation. He is very intelligent and obedient, so he will complete any work task with ease. He adores his people and loves to please them. However, this does not mean blindly following orders, because the AUSTRALIAN SHEPHERD is a DOG with character and as such quite stubborn with a high degree of self-confidence. It is an active DOG that requires combined physical and mental training, at least 2 hours a day. Lack of activity or company can result in anxiety and boredom. This BREED is gaining more and more popularity as a FAMILY DOG, due to its obedience and ability to learn quickly, however, it should be remembered that it is originally a SHEPHERD DOG, which will always retain its independence and its will.

     

GERMAN SHEPHERD

• GERMAN SHEPHERD Due to its physical characteristics and its character, the GERMAN SHEPHERD is a very suitable family DOG. These are very intelligent, active, and protective DOGS. So, if you want a DOG that will be totally inactive and constantly lying on the sofa, then the GERMAN SHEPHERD is not the right choice for you, because it requires constant, both physical and mental activity and your attention. This means that you will have to practice this DOG every day from an early age and stick to early socialization. That is why you should start training while he is still a PUPPY to ensure his good health and for your PET to be in good physical and mental condition. But by no means overdo the workouts while they are still in development, due to possible health problems in the future. Therefore, you should start with light walks several times a day. The GERMAN SHEPHERD is a DOG that has a lot of energy, and if you do not allow him enough daily exercises and tasks, or leave him alone, he will become destructive and will spend his energy digging, barking, or chewing objects. Also, he should be allowed to play with other DOGS from time to time, because otherwise, he will not have very friendly preferences towards other DOGS. THE GERMAN SHEPHERD is known as an extremely obedient DOG, so it is easy to TRAIN. But you have to be consistent and use rewards as positive coaching methods, otherwise, your PET will take over dominance very quickly. If trained properly from an early age, they will grow into obedient, loyal, and smart DOGS with knowledge of numerous tricks. The GERMAN SHEPHERD is a BREED that gets along well with children, and if exposed to children from an early age, it will be their most faithful guardians and friends and will protect them from all possible dangers. It can also be said that they are reliable towards unknown children. However, caution is needed when interacting with children, due to the size of this DOG, which could inadvertently bring them down in the game. The GERMAN SHEPHERD will be best proven through the role of a cattle guard, for police and military purposes, searching and rescuing people, detecting drugs, but also as a GUIDE DOG for people with a disability.

BICHON FRIZE

• BICHON FRIZE is a true example of a FAMILY DOG. They are good-natured, gentle, playful little DOGS with lots of energy. They love their family and love to be with them. They especially enjoy games with children. He will enjoy cuddling and lazing around, and he will win you over with his charm and cuteness. He has a good attitude toward other DOGS and CATS and is friendly toward strangers. He is not aggressive and does not tend to bark. This BREED is suitable for novice owners because it is smart and loves to learn, so it is easy to train. Of course, unless you fall victim to his charm. Although they have a cheerful character, being left alone for too long can cause destructive behavior and anxiety in them.

CHIHUAHUA

• CHIHUAHUA The character of these DOGS is different. CHIHUAHUAS are lively, cautious, confident, brave, but also aggressive DOGS, due to their partly terrier character. These DOGS are not aggressive by birth but become so over time. They mostly show attachment to only one person, so they find it hard to accept new people. However, they can also make friends with strangers, if they are socialized early and exposed to different: situations, people, or sounds. They can be very jealous if they are not given enough attention. These are small, home DOGS, which do not require much space, so they are ideal for people living in an apartment. Living outdoors hides a number of possible dangers for them, as they can become prey to other animals, such as eagles. These are very active DOGS with an extremely high amount of energy that they will expend regularly by running around the house or apartment. But if you want your CHIHUAHUA to stay in good shape, daily light walks are recommended, which will satisfy their daily needs for activity. In doing so, be sure not to overwork him and provide him with enough rest. The CHIHUAHUA is an intelligent dog with great learning ability and can be TRAINED very well. These are DOGS who like to please their owner and with proper TRAINING, you will get a loyal and endearing DOG to your liking. TRAINING should be resorted to from an early age, just like SOCIALIZATION to prevent possible, possible unwanted behaviors in the future. TRAINING should use positive methods, such as rewards in the form of food, praise, and play. On the other hand, these DOGS require a "firm hand", because otherwise they will show disobedience and take over domination. Therefore, it is not recommended for people without experience with DOGS. If you have never had a DOG, and you really want a CHIHUAHUA, an older, already socialized CHIHUAHUA is recommended. Also, these DOGS are not recommended for families with children under the age of 9, because children in play could inadvertently injure them. Otherwise, they get along quite well with older children. They may or may not get along well with other DOGS (depending on the character of each other and whether or not they grew up together), as well as with other PETS, except for other CHIHUAHUAS in whose company they enjoy.

"We take care of our pets as for ourselves"

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