Home | Pets

5 helpful tips to toilet train your cat

5 helpful tips to toilet train your cat
Many cat parents don’t like cleaning the litter box every single day. And that’s usually the main reason they’d want to start with toilet training from day one itself. But properly inculcating the habit of using the bathroom in felines may not be easy. Although cats are intelligent creatures, they need time to learn new practices and modify old ones. So, be patient, buy the right tools, and try incorporating these tips. Choose the right time You may have several excellent methods to toilet train your cat, but they might not work if the timing isn’t apt. Do you have guests at home, or you’re busy with work? Now isn’t the ideal time. The best time to teach your cat is when disturbance at home is the least, and having sufficient time to train them is vital. Give them their bathroom If possible, designate one bathroom for your furry family member in your home. Ask all your other family members and guests to keep the lid up and seat down at all times. Also, keep the bathroom door only slightly open when your cat is doing their business, as they, too, prefer privacy. Keep the litter box in the bathroom To help your cat transition from the litter box to the bathroom, move their litter box right next to the toilet.

Effective ways to manage brain dysfunction

Effective ways to manage brain dysfunction
Aging is a natural, inevitable process. At best, it is possible to make continuous changes that complement and suit your current lifestyle. We are talking about changes in daily nutrition, habits, routine, and even finding dedicated health services and personal care assistance to improve quality of life. These changes are also beneficial in preventing and lowering the risk of certain progressive disorders that affect daily lifestyles. Here is an overview. 5 essential foods to consider Studies show that 60% of the brain matter is made up of fat and nearly half of it consists of omega-3 fatty acids that boost and regulate cognitive function. Omega 3s can be sourced from fatty fish, including salmon, tuna, trout, herring, and sardines. Avocados and assorted nuts are rich sources of this nutrient suitable for vegetarians and vegans. In addition, it is necessary to include antioxidant-rich berries like blueberries that delay brain matter aging and improve memory. Green leafy vegetables like broccoli contain lutein, vitamin K, nitrates, and folates known to boost cognitive function. Nutritionists also recommend including a variety of whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, oatmeal, and buckwheat, among other complex carbohydrates. These healthy changes in nutrition boost cognitive development and slow down brain degeneration.

Foods that help manage ulcerative colitis better

Foods that help manage ulcerative colitis better
Ulcerative colitis is a condition that causes inflammation of the colon. It can cause high levels of inflammation and ulcers that occur on the lining of the colon and rectum. If the condition persists, the ulcers can start spreading and invade the whole colon as opposed to just the lining. Ulcerative colitis is especially seen in males aged 50 years or above but can occur in people of all ages and genders. Foods that help manage ulcerative colitis: Oatmeal Oatmeal is a highly nutritious food loaded with essential vitamins and minerals. It also contains high amounts of beta-glucan, a type of soluble fiber that promotes good gut bacteria growth. Studies show an excellent bacterial population in the digestive system helps manage ulcerative colitis symptoms. The high fiber content of oatmeal also helps promote regular bowel movements, reducing cramps and pain. Salmon Salmon is rich in protein and other essential nutrients such as potassium. It makes it an excellent addition to protect the body against strokes and other symptoms. The omega-3 fatty acid contained in fish is especially beneficial for patients with ulcerative colitis. Fruits Some common foods that are a great addition to a colitis patient’s plate are bananas, avocado, grapes, and blueberries.

5 ways to manage ADHD in children

5 ways to manage ADHD in children
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a health condition  generally seen in children. The brain of an ADHD child develops differently, where the condition affects the child’s posture, focus, and attention span, and capacity for self-control. This condition is characterized by hyperactivity, excessive movement when not required, and impulsive behavior. Parents with ADHD child can opt for different ways to deal with them. This article highlights simple parenting tips for ADHD. Raising a child with ADHD comes with its own challenges, but they can be managed by giving attention, encouragement, and following various approaches. Engage in challenging activities Children with ADHD are easily distracted, but not many know they only focus when they find a challenging task. When the child responds positively to a particular task, encourage them to do more of it. This will keep them active, improving their physical and mental health.  Encourage physical exercise Indulging in different exercises can help the child focus better, improve sleep patterns, reduce depression or anxiety, and stimulate brain function.  Follow a routine Creating a routine in daily tasks and activities can reduce the chances of distractions. Also, when the child encounters an activity or event they expect, they are prepared to complete them.

Avoid making these five mistakes when sending flowers

Avoid making these five mistakes when sending flowers
Flowers are the most convenient gifts that people love giving and receiving. The best part is that they make ideal presents for many occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, Valentine’s Day, and Mother’s Day. While it can be an easy gifting option, you may choose the wrong blooms or overspend while shopping. So here are a few common, avoidable mistakes that can make the gift inappropriate, less special, or unnecessary expense. Not understanding the symbolism Choosing the right flowers is crucial in delivering the right message, as each bloom represents a deeper meaning. For instance, red roses symbolize love, whereas deep, dark crimson roses can represent mourning. Make sure you do your research to avoid sending the wrong message. Overlooking the packaging Even the most vibrant blossoms can seem dull if you do not get the packaging right. You should avoid paper bouquets as they can be delicate and tend to fall apart quickly. Instead, talk to a florist that can hand-arrange and deliver flowers in elegant packaging. You can also check out Venus Eternity® roses for sophisticated boxes. Not verifying the address Many people do not double-check the details and get the recipient’s address wrong. If you enter an incomplete or inaccurate address when shopping online, the flowers may never reach the intended recipient, making the whole thing a waste of money and effort.

3 common laptop-buying mistakes to avoid

3 common laptop-buying mistakes to avoid
Finding the right laptop isn’t always an easy task. Quite a few hours go into making sure that a balance is struck between specifications and pricing. And despite the efforts poured into research and careful consideration, a few essential factors end up getting missed. Eventually, you can feel quite disappointed when the laptop costs you more than how much you bargained for. Here are three vital laptop-buying mistakes to avoid: Giving resolution too much importance Many people believe a laptop’s resolution is a deal breaker, but that’s quite untrue. The only time 4K resolution might be useful is when you want the real cinema experience at home. But such a factor won’t be valid with the small screens the resolution is often offered on. As long as you aren’t buying a high-end gaming laptop or one with a bigger screen and shaving off your bank account, consider expanding your search. Not checking the ports Laptops with a somewhat minimal motif seem appealing but aren’t always practical. While such devices look sleek and clean, they can be a huge pain when it comes to getting work done. Laptops with limited connectivity options can leave you scrambling for solutions when you need to tether multiple peripherals.

Must
Reads.

5 things to avoid doing in hotels

One of the joys of traveling is getting comfortable hotel accommodation for your stay. Just as we expect great service from these hotels, they expect the guests to follow certain protocols to make the experience pleasurable. It is important to understand this tacit agreement. On that note, here are some vital tips to remind you of things that you should avoid doing when you are staying in a hotel. Keep the bathroom door shut Taking a hot shower at the end of the day and sliding into the comfy blanket is one of the perks of being in a hotel. However, make sure you keep the bathroom door shut. The steam from the shower can enter the room and trigger the fire alarm. Don’t cover the smoke alarms Almost all hotels always have a smoking room available for their guests, as they understand it is a requirement for some. However, some guests will take a room that comes with a smoke alarm and cover the smoke alarms whenever they wish to indulge in activities that may set off the alarm. Avoid using the throw pillows Some hotels have these delicate items in the room, like throw pillows to add some personality to the room. However, if you notice, a lot of these items do not have a sleeve cover, and many hotels do not clean these pillows after every guest’s departure. These items could be a hotbed of germs, so it is best to avoid these throw pillows altogether. Stealing bathrobes is a big no-no It is normal to pack the shampoo, conditioner, and tea sachets from hotels. Most people do it, and it is quite acceptable as the customers pay for them. However, some may try to grab other items like bathrobes or coat hangers. Make sure to keep these items in the room after using them.

6 hotel booking mistakes to avoid for the best deals

Planning your travel itinerary is one of the most critical tasks to pay attention to, especially while reserving bookings online. Holiday deals and bundled packages might be tempting at first glance. But there are certain rookie booking mistakes and not-so-obvious pitfalls to avoid losing money. It doesn’t matter if you are a veteran traveler or a first-timer. Pay attention to these 6 common booking mistakes and get the best deal on the first attempt. Not reading reviews When you have website reviews available for reference, use them before comparing cheap hotels in Orlando or other locations. Filter hotels by best reviews and read a few for the chosen place of stay. Learn about their service and quality of amenities, and see whether it is worth booking in the first place. Not booking a refundable room Travel plans can change, so you need to account for contingencies that affect your booking dates. Always book a refundable room even if your plans change on the spur of the moment. Not using the hotel’s website Booking through third-party websites may fetch you cheap hotels in Orlando. But booking a room through the hotel website that offers the same discount or price match can be more beneficial. Guests get assigned the best rooms with better views and even upgrades for using the hotel’s official website. Booking at the wrong time Hotels usually try to fill up as many rooms as possible with advance booking while reserving some rooms for last-minute travelers. Book rooms well in advance, especially if you make plans for the holiday season. Hotels can double or triple their room prices for tourists who fail to book in advance. Not signing up for hotel rewards Hotels offer loyalty programs and membership benefits to frequent travelers. Loyalty points can be redeemed at the hotel front desk or online to book free stays and travel on your next vacation.

4 tips to manage flea and tick infestations in dogs

Flea and ticks are common parasites that carry different types of diseases. These pests thrive in soft and warm environments, and the pet’s fur is a perfect home for them. If left unchecked, they can cause severe complications. But there are simple ways to control and prevent this problem. Here are some effective preventive treatments, plants that repel parasites, changes in daily foods, and DIY remedies to manage the infestation: Effective treatments Simparica TRIO oral chews are suitable for dogs eight weeks and older, weighing at least 2.8 lbs. The tablet should be given once a month.  K9 Advantix II, on the other hand, is another popular monthly flea protection treatment that is effective within the first 12 hours of consumption. K9 Advantix is suitable for dogs seven weeks or older, weighing at least 4.4 lbs.  Bravetco® is a more long-lasting alternative as one tablet can prevent flea and tick infestations for 12 weeks. Bravetco® is available in five dosing options, depending on the size and weight of the dog. Some heartworm prescriptions like Advantage Multi® topical solution and Trifexis® oral chews also help counter flea and tick infections. Immunity boosting meals and foods Consult with a vet to better understand what dogs should eat daily to develop more resilience and fight flea and tick infestations. For example, garlic can ward off parasites and is safe to include in small quantities for most breeds. But ensure the garlic is always freshly chopped. Honey pairs well with this garlic mixture and boosts immunity to combat common allergens that trigger flea infestations. Helpful plants that repel parasites Swapping out old plants for pet-friendly plants can actually help repel fleas and ticks. Basil, catnip, chamomile, chrysanthemum, eucalyptus, plantain, garlic, lavender, lemongrass, marigolds, mint, pennyroyal, rosemary, rue, sage, tansy, thyme, wormwood, and yarrow are all acceptable choices.

3 tips that may help prevent and manage prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed forms of cancer. It is estimated that one in eight men is at risk, and the number gets higher in those above the age of 65. Thankfully, modern treatments and prescriptions have made it easier. Also, certain lifestyle changes, healthy eating habits, and effective measures for prevention lower the risk. Here is how early diagnosis, treatments, and simple suggestions can improve the quality of life. Prescription treatments Xofigo contains a radioactive element called radium RA 223 dichloride. The injection works well in a short-range radius to counter the spread of prostate cancer in the bone. Enzalutamide, marketed under the brand name XTANDI, is an alternative treatment option. Those who don’t respond well to hormonal or surgical treatments can consider these injections to lower and manage testosterone levels. XTANDI works by actively inhibiting androgen receptors to prevent or reduce cancer cell growth. Prescriptions aside, doctors suggest cryotherapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy for those who respond to regular treatments. However, the treatments vary depending on the spread of cancer and the severity of the symptoms. Best foods for prevention Tomatoes and watermelon are rich in lycopene and beneficial for prostate cancer prevention. Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, brussels sprouts, kale, cabbage, and cauliflower contain phytochemicals that help combat cancer-growing cells. Additionally, citrus-rich fruits, including oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes, help boost immunity. Tofu, chickpeas, lentils, sprouts, and peanuts contain isoflavones, which help lower the risk of prostate cancer. Note that daily foods must also supplement omega-3 fatty acids and folates sourced from fatty fish, leafy greens, and fortified whole foods. Overall, nutritionists recommend including more foods rich in antioxidants to fight oxidative damage. Effective lifestyle changes Exercise is one of the most significant changes to implement in daily routine. Any form of physical activity, including walking, running, jogging, and weight training, can help maintain a healthy body weight.

Our
Blog.

4 ways to overcome an overactive bladder

4 ways to overcome an overactive bladder

Overactive bladder or OAB is a health condition that causes frequent and sudden urge to urinate. Statistics suggest that close to 35 million people in the country suffer from overactive bladder. Some people also experience urinary incontinence or unintentional loss of urine. It can be embarrassing to deal with the condition, as it can limit one’s social and professional life. The following tips can be used to effectively manage an overactive bladder: Typical treatment options Before we discuss tips for managing an overactive bladder, it is important to be aware of some treatment options. GEMTESA (vibegron) is one such treatment option. It activates beta-3 receptors, thereby allowing the bladder to relax and provide relief from being overactive. Apart from this, Myrbetriq can also be used for treating an overactive bladder, as it smoothens the muscles around the urinary bladder, increasing its storage capacity. Other options include TOVIAZ and INVOKANA®. Add cranberries to your food regimen  Cranberries are widely used to treat problems associated with bladder control. Similarly, other berries like strawberries and blueberries are also abundant in vitamin C, which can neutralize bad bacteria and prevent urinary tract infections. Berries also have high water content, which maintains hydration levels and helps manage bladder control. Cranberries can be eaten alone or can be added to smoothies, salads, and other delicious recipes. Limit washing and wiping Sanitary hygiene is essential. However, it can be counterintuitive going overboard. Women with overactive bladder experiencing menstruation might feel the constant need to clean themselves. However, excessive cleaning with soap can make the area dry and itchy, and it can aggravate symptoms of an overactive bladder. Hence it is recommended to avoid going overboard on washing and wiping or use hydrating cleaning products to retain the moisture. Practice exercises for bladder control Changes in certain habits related to urination can ease the symptoms or help retain bladder strength in the long run.
Read More
5 tips to manage migraine attacks

5 tips to manage migraine attacks

Migraine is characterized by throbbing, lingering pain on either side of the head. It is common among those between 30 and 40 and more prevalent among women than men. According to research, at least 39 million people in the country live with migraine. Many people with this condition are sensitive to light and sound. Fortunately, lifestyle changes can reduce the frequency of migraines. Here are some effective ways that can help cope with migraines: Treatments People with migraines need to keep medications handy. Some of the common medicines used by adults for migraine attacks are UBRELVY™, Excedrin, Nurtec® ODT, and QULIPTA™. They block pathways in the brain that are responsible for migraine attacks. A doctor might also recommend preventive medicines if one experiences frequent and severe headaches that don’t respond well to treatment. These medications might reduce how often one gets an attack and reduce its severity. Foods to eat Fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds are high in antioxidants and fat and are great for keeping overall health in check. Magnesium-rich foods like avocados, apricots, almonds, cashews, and brown rice help the blood vessels relax and prevent headaches. Other items that help prevent headaches include leafy greens, dairy, and calcium-rich foods. Those who experience frequent migraine attacks are also often recommended to reduce the intake of high-sodium foods. Lifestyle choices Having a healthy sleep cycle is very rewarding. It’s good for one’s physical and mental health. Getting quality sleep every night can significantly reduce the frequency of migraine attacks. Migraines usually occur when the body doesn’t get enough rest and is stressed. Hydration and cold compress It’s essential to be hydrated at all times to help reduce the frequency of migraines. The body requires a certain amount of electrolytes and fluids to work its best. When one doesn’t replace these fluids and electrolytes, it causes dehydration, triggering migraine.
Read More