Cats Need to Play
Fun, engaging activity is vital for your feline’s wellbeing.
Cats are predators by nature. You can’t take hunters out of their natural environment and expect them to do well in one where potential prey is nonexistent. Cats have spent millennia finely tuning their hunting instincts and if you don’t replace their primal need to pursue, you’ll become their prey and/or they will act out in destructive ways to communicate their needs.
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“Your cat is like a Ferrari,” said Pam Johnson-Bennett, a cat behaviorist. “You can’t just leave it in the garage to rust away. You need to get your cat playing to see how great she really is.”
Providing myriad opportunities for play is the best way to satisfy cats’ hunting instinct. However, there are ways to play that will make it a lot more fun for you and your cat. While you might think play involves nothing more than dangling a toy in front of your cat, most likely, you are just making her more frustrated.
Play is primarily about hunting to a cat and that means it can be broken down into four main components: stalk, chase, pounce and eat.
“Cats need to have their natural hunting instincts stimulated in a healthy indoor environment,” said Ellen Tsuyaki, founder of Neko Flies Cat Toys. “Using wand toys allows cats to use their various skills of hunting, such as stalking, jumping and running, while chasing prey. It also helps keep your cat fit and minimizes obesity issues, which are a problem in many indoor cats.”
Choosing a Toy for Your Cat
Photo courtesy of The Refined Feline.
How you choose to play with your cat depends on her personality. No matter what your cat’s favorite method of play is, be sure you provide her with a variety of items that will stimulate all of her instincts, including:
- Hiding: cardboard boxes, tunnels, cat caves, etc.
As with many cats, yours might need to have several places to hide in, particularly if household activity becomes overwhelming. Provide her with a cat play tunnel she can crawl and hide in or set out a few different sized boxes for her to explore. (I’ve never seen any cat turn down a good cardboard box.)
- Climbing: cat trees, cat perches, tall scratching posts, etc.
In the wild, cats seek out high places to observe unobtrusively and safely. Climbing is important for your cat because it not only satisfies this natural urge; it also enables her to use and sharpen her claws. As such, your cat should have scratching posts and tall items to climb and explore. Be sure you invest in a sturdy tree/scratching post or your cat could become injured if falls over on her.
- Stalking and Chasing: Wand toys, lasers, stuffed toys, ball track toys, electronic prey toys, etc.
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Because your cat is a master hunter, she will need a way to stalk “prey.” This can be done by drawing a wand toy across the floor in front of her or by playing a game of hide and seek. Cats also love to chase things, so you’ll need to identify what types of things your cat prefers to chase. Sometimes a cat will be scared of a mouse or bird and prefer to chase a bug or a lizard. You shouldn’t encourage your cats to go after live prey because that’s just cruel; however, you should select a toy that mimics the action and size of what she likes to chase most.
- Pouncing: wands toys, stuffed toys, electronic prey toys, etc.
The pouncing part of catching prey is very important to cats because it gives them the opportunity to “complete” a mimicked kill. Always remember to let your cat eventually catch whatever it is you’re encouraging her to chase. If you don’t, your cat could become frustrated and refuse to play.
- Eating: treat dispensing toys, cat food, cat treats
You should provide your cat a snack or meal after a solid play session. This helps complete the cycle of hunt, catch, kill, eat. Cats like to earn their dinners so be sure you keep her active prior to feeding. You won’t find many freeloaders in the feline world.
When To Schedule Playtime
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Cats are crepuscular (most active at dusk and dawn), which often makes those hours the best time to play. This is when your cat will most likely want to engage in play. Remember, though, all cats are different. You should pay attention to when your cat is most active and set your playtime for those hours—unless, of course, that time is two in the morning.
While the types of activities you engage your cat in are important, what ultimately matters is the actual engagement. Cats, particularly indoor ones, need their owners encouragement to stay active; not doing so can jeopardize your cat’s mental and physical well-being. Whatever activity you choose for your playtime, be sure your cat is enjoying as much as you are.
About the Author: Stacy Mantle is a fulltime freelance writer, bestselling author and founder of PetsWeekly.com. She resides in the deserts of the Southwest with a few dogs, several cats and a very understanding husband.
DogSport is a water bottle cap for pets, designed to provide a convenient, ready, no mess-source of water whenever you and your pet are out in the world. Just twist your water bottle cap off and twist DogSport on; it’s so easy. Each package contains two universal caps. If they don’t fit your water bottle, simply twist of the bottom piece to access the second adapter. Made with the highest quality, nontoxic materials, each cap also features a hole to attach a, ring, keychain or carabiner. 
OurPets® Kitty Potty™ is an innovative waste removal system that caters to your cat’s natural elimination instincts and serves as a training tool to “potty train” kittens. Cats deposit waste in a strategically placed hole that is surrounding by litter, which allows a cat to instinctively cover, but never touch her waste—and you do not have to either. When the waste tray is full, simply remove the tray, slide the bag over the waste and toss for an easy, no-touch cleanup. The “litter box” has a universal zeolite carbon filter that effectively absorbs odors, keeping the litter area fresh and clean, and its ability to work with non-clumping litter makes it an economical solution. 
Pet Remedy is formulated with valerian, vertiver, basil and sage to produce a natural, calming effect in dogs and cats. Clinically proven to relieve stress and anxiety, according to the company, the calming solution can be dispensed via a spray or a diffuser. The spray can be applied on pets, their bedding or even yourself. The diffuser covers up to 650 sq. ft. and plugs in to any outlet. Both methods can be used simultaneously to ensure your pets remain calm (but never sedated). The spray is available in 15ml and 200ml bottles, the refillable diffuser lasts up to 8 weeks. 
Vet’s Best new line of soft chews health supplements for dogs includes Advanced Hip & Joint Soft Chews, which are formulated with glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM and boswellia to offer advanced support for healthy joint function and mobility in older dogs; and Comfort Calm Soft Chews, formulated to help reduce the effects of normal environmental stress, supports balanced behavior, and promotes relaxation. They contain a soothing blend of tryptophan, thiamine, valerian root and chamomile, plus ginger root to help manage motion sickness and stomach discomfort. The once-day-supplements are suitable for dogs all sizes; each resealable package contains a 30-day supply for dogs up to 75 lb. 
SureFlap’s® Surefeed sealed pet bowl reduces waste by keeping pet food fresh longer. The bowl features a motion-activated lid that opens when a cat approaches and closes when she is through eating, creating an airtight seal that keeps bugs out and freshness in. The lid’s quiet operation will not distract cats and it automatically detects obstructions when closing. It comes with a standard gray bowl; blue, pink and green bowls may be purchased separately. The bowl and lid remove easily for cleaning and the unit runs on four C cell batteries, which typically last for six months. 
The PetSafe® Drinkwell® Sedona Pet Fountain – Lake Breeze has a 100-oz. water capacity, making it ideal for multiple pets. The stylish clear bowl design helps minimize spills and splashes, while providing a large drinking area to accommodate pets with large or flat faces. The whisper-quiet falling water helps prevent bacteria growth and the fountain’s ceramic tower and impact-resistant bowl are easy to clean and top-shelf dishwasher safe. It comes with a replaceable, activated-carbon filter and is intended for indoor use only. 
Hurtta’s Sun & Bug Blocker suit covers a dog’s legs, body and neck with a thin but strong breathable material that is permeated with Clariant Sanitized® finishing, which is formulated with permethrin to protect dogs from harmful UV rays, mosquito, horseflies and tick bites. The SPF 40-rated suit is made of a lightweight and flexible material that makes it easy to put on and allows the dog unrestricted freedom of movement. . Dermatology tested safe for dogs, the suit will retain its repellent qualities for up to 100 washes. It is available in a wide variety of sizes to fit most dogs (not intended for use on cats). 
The Jackson Galaxy™ Toy Marinater offers an easy way to create your own catnip-infused cat toys. Simply add catnip to the device’s silicone base, place your cat’s favorite toy inside the mesh bag and insert it into the cylinder, replace the cap and squeeze for instant catnip toys. It works on all toy materials: plush, canvas, rubber, plastic, polyester and more. The Marinater can be used to add a quick burst of catnip scent or store toys inside it for a longer-lasting scent. It is available in assorted bright colors. 
Muse is a brand new line of all-natural cat food from Purina, offering 26 delicious recipes including, five With Toppers, five In Broth, two In Chowder, six In Gravy, six Paté and two Dry. All recipes are made with real fish or poultry and contain no corn, soy, artificial flavors, colors or preservatives. All but the In Gravy recipes are grain-free and the dry recipes are also gluten-free. The wet food comes in 3-oz. cans or 2.1-oz. tubs and the dry in 1-, 4- and 9-lb. bags. And, if your cats don’t love Muse, it will refund your money via the brand’s 
Spike™ Grain-Free Jerky for Dogs and Snack Bars for Dogs are part of a new line of treats from Petcurean, a manufacturer of high quality, premium pet food. Each all-natural jerky recipe is made with premium quality novel protein (catfish, grass-fed vension and cage-free duck and turkey) and chia, pomegranate and kale to provide your dogs with nutrient-rich, high-fiber and vitamin-, mineral- and antioxidant-packed treats. The Chicken Meal & Sweet Potato snack bars are individually wrapped for dogs on the go, made with all natural ingredients and packed with meat protein and carbohydrates to refuel your active pup. 
Tomlyn’s Daily Multi-Vitamin Plus Probiotics & Enzymes are soft chews specifically created for cats and dogs of all ages and sizes. The multi-vitamins are scientifically formulated to provide nutrients essential for healthy eyes, bones, teeth, skin, brain and heart, help maintain overall health and keep pets in peak condition. They also are a good source of vitamin E, digestive enzymes, omega 3 fatty acids and selenium. Formula include Chews for Cats, Puppies, Small Dogs, Medium & Large Dogs and Senior Dogs. 
If you’re looking for a grain free, all-natural food your cat will love, check out By Nature Active Defense+ Canned Stews for Cats. The super-premium stews contain a tasty combination of high-quality proteins—wholesome, tender meat, poultry or fish—and nutrient-packed vegetables for a nutritionally balanced meal. Formulated for all breed and life stages, the canned stews come in three varieties: Beef & Chicken Stew, Tuna & Salmon Stew and Ocean Fish & Shrimp Stew. 
FetchFuel™ liquid supplement is formulated to provide a simple way to deliver tasty nutrition for your dog. One squeeze on top of a dog’s food gives a delicious, daily dose of important nutrients that provide additional support for dogs’ joints, coats and overall health. Produced in the USA, the supplemental sauce contains glucosamine, omegas 3, 6 and 9, vitamins A, B, C, D and E, zinc, calcium, biotin and more. It is available in an 18-oz. squeezable bottle as well as single-serve packets in five- or 10-packs. 
Pioneer Pet’s Bootsies Bunk Bed and Playroom is an all-inclusive cat activity center for playing, hiding and sleeping. The attractive unit combines cats’ two favorite pastimes: playing and sleeping. After a vigorous workout batting two spring action toys, your cat can sack out on the top bunk for a nap on a durable, quilted pad or escape into a secluded, dual-entry hideaway. A handy roof accessory (not shown) provides yet another healthy and popular feline activity: scratching. (The activity center is not recommended for kittens.) 
Let your dog go thoroughly modern with P.L.A.Y.’s Moroccan Lounge Bed. Made with 100 percent natural cotton canvas, the dog bed features a leather logo and lead-free zipper to keep avid chewers safe from toxins and is filled with just the right amount of high-loft, eco-friendly PlanetFill, creating the perfect sanctuary for tranquil naptimes. Its furniture-grade craftsmanship and even-basting stitching ensures dog-years of use, it’s also machine washable and dryer friendly. The Moroccan Lounge Bed comes in four sizes (small, medium, large and extra-large) and four colors: teal, ash gray, marsala and navy blue. In addition, through P.L.A.Y.’s Warm Bellies’ Initiative, every dog bed purchase helps provide a bed to shelter dogs. 
Light up your cat’s world with SmartyKat Twinkle Tippers. The fun-inducing, light-up balance cat toys twinkle and blink with every touch. The toys’ self-righting balls wobble and roll with the flick of a paw, causing the dangling teasers to enticingly dance and sway. The new cat toys come in two designs: pink with an adorable owl design and dangling feathers and in blue with a cute moon motif with dangling stars and ribbons. 
Stewart’s® Fresh to Home™ Freeze Dried Patties provide a new simply way to feed your dog a raw diet. The nutrition-packed, easy-to-feed, pre-measured meals are made with single-source proteins, fruits, vegetables and other natural ingredients, which are then freeze-dried to retain natural vitamins, minerals and amino acids. Cold-process pasteurization is used to destroy harmful bacterial and pathogens for added safety. The grain-free patties are made in the USA and are available in Chicken and Beef recipes for small, medium and large dogs. 
The V-Base—part of Hagen’s Vesper V-Line cat furniture line—is an eye-catching, modern take on the traditional cat tree. Featuring natural scratching surfaces made with durable woven seaweed and plush, memory-foam cushions, it provides an ideal place for your cat(s) to play and rest. Other materials include MDF high-quality from New Zealand pine, wood-finished laminate with scratch-resistant surface and a water-based lacquer. Just over 32-inches in height, the V-Base is available in walnut or black. 
Kong Tuff-n-Lite dog toys are remarkably tough and ultra-light. The whimsical-looking dog toys are designed to be durable enough for power chewers while delivering big fun for any dog. Their lightweight construction and erratic bounce make for exciting games of fetch; and the extra loud squeakers provide added fun. The toys come in three shapes—Pink Pig, Green Frog and Blue Octopus—and two sizes: small and large. 
Petchup’s two new condiments for pets—Bark-B-Q (pork flavor) and Mutt-n-aise (turkey flavor)—offer a savory blend of vitamins, minerals, glucosamine, omega 3, 6 and 9, and prebiotics in a delicious and healthful sauce that helps make kibble even tastier. The low-calorie condiments are made in the USA from natural food-grade, nutritional ingredients and contain no artificial colors or flavors. 
Natures Variety Instinct Raw Boost Indoor Health for cats is specially formulated to meet the nutritional needs of indoor cats. The formulas are reduced in calories to help maintain a healthful weight, and they include highly digestible protein as well as fructooligosaccharides to help provide stool odor control. The cat food is comprised of high-protein, grain- and gluten-free kibble combined with protein-packed freeze-dried raw bites. It is available in two formulas—Rabbit Meal and Chicken Meal—and comes in 5.1-lb bags. 
Petmate’s Zoobilee Mighty Meaties dog toys will bring out the meat lover in your pet; The soft, plush toys are shaped like a cartoon ham bone and are great for a variety of activities, including playing indoor fetch, chewing and cuddling, Each “meat bone” features a squeaker and crackle paper to catch the attention of any pooch. The toys are available in four wild-animal print designs and come in small and large sizes. 
Coastal Pet Products Mega Turbo Cat Toy doubles the fun your cat can have with two activity-inducing sides. On one side boasts a super-sized 14-inch corrugated-cardboard scratch pad (it’s big enough for scratching and sleeping) and a smooth-motion track ball; the other side (shown) features a peek-a-boo game with a jingle ball. High quality catnip is included. 
Solvit’s CareLift™ lifting harness is designed to provide pet owners with a simple and safe method to lift and aid movement for dogs suffering from injuries or old age. The harness’ rear section is designed to lift evenly from both the hips and the waist. Its rear-section bellyband has a specially shaped protector panel to ensure a comfortable fit for male dogs and can be removed for females. The bellyband can also be stowed out of the way during elimination, which allows for continued support via the hip straps. The harness comes in three sizes: small (7 to 35 lb.), medium (35 to 70 lb.) and large (70 to 130 lb.) 
Feline Cafe™ Grain & Gluten Free Dinners from Bravo are complete-and-balanced, natural dinners for cats. The new canned cat food features delicious cuts of meat or poultry as the first ingredient plus tasty cranberries, a medley of garden greens and salmon oil. The canned dinners come in two varieties: Feline 95% Meat or Poultry Dinners, which features three flavors—Beef, Turkey & Liver, Chicken & Liver and Duck, Turkey & Liver; and Feline Meat or Poultry Fricassees in Beef, Chicken or Turkey flavors. 
Based on the CHI human brand, the new CHI for Dogs brand features an array of salon-quality shampoos, conditioners, sprays, wipes and grooming tools. The ergonomically designed tools feature nonslip handles for a comfortable grip. The bath and styling products incorporate ionic technology to seal the hair cuticle, reducing frizz and leaving a shiny coat. The comprehensive line includes Deep Moisture Shampoo, Oatmeal Conditioner, Deodorizing Spray, Ergo Soft Grip Brushes, nail clippers and undercut rakes, to name just a few of the 36 CHI for Dogs products currently available exclusively from 
The Command™ Auto Close Custom Fit Gate is an ideal solution for safe pet containment in extra wide or odd-shaped areas. It can be drilled into the wall (hardware is included), used as a freestanding barrier or converted into a pet yard (with the use of additional extensions). The two-way door features a dual-magnet system that automatically draws the door closed and guarantees it locks with every use. The 30-in. extra wide door also has one-hand operation and a Hold Open Feature that secures the door until it is pushed closed. All panels, including the door section, are interchangeable and can be placed anywhere within the layout of the gate. 
Li’l Chicks are the newest critters to join West Paw Design’s family of cat toys. Filled with organic catnip and a captivating bell, kitty cats will go crazy bouncing and batting these adorable little creatures around. The USDA-certified catnip is grown in the United States, free from synthetic herbicides, pesticides and fertilizers, and 100 percent pure—no fillers. Measuring 2-in. across, the fuzzy little chicks come in assorted colors (hot pink, turquoise, bright yellow, black and light green) and, as with all West Paw Design products, are made in the USA. 
Crazy Dog presents all-new category of dog treats. Walkies Fit Bites are formulated to help keep dogs fit and active with ingredients that benefit heart health and movement. Key ingredients include taurine to support heart health; chicken-cartilage as a source of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate to aid mobility; and L-carnitine to promote weight control and lean muscle preservation. Appropriately shaped like a foot, the treats celebrate the importance of walking and the essential benefits dogs and their owners receive from it. Walkies Fit Bites come in three tempting flavors: Bacon, Beef and Chicken. 
Midwestern Pet Foods’ PRO PAC® Ultimates™ Deep Sea Select™ cat food brings only the finest of fish protein to indoor cats and kittens. High in fiber, it helps meet the unique needs of indoor cats by aiding in the control of hairballs. The grain-free whitefish meal formula is fortified with vitamins E and C along with nutrient-rich natural vegetables and fruits (peas, chickpeas, apples, blueberries, carrots, spinach and cranberries) to help support good digestion and intestinal health. It is also has balanced ratio of omega-6 and -3 fatty acids to help support healthy skin and coat. It is available in 5- and 14-lb bags. 
pawTree® pet stain removing products quickly eliminate stains and odor. Urine Eliminator™ features a special enzymatic formula that breaks down urine proteins, cleaning all the way down to the subfloor, while its unique bacteria blend neutralizes even the toughest odors. , Oxy Shot™ has a powerful oxy formula that penetrates deep and fast to remove permanently the toughest pet and household stains and related odors. Both products are effective on both old and new stains, help prevent repeat marking and are safe to use on carpets, upholstery, hard surfaces, cement and all other water-safe surfaces—they also smell great. 
Arm & Hammer Dual Scrubbers Nubbies dental treats feature “nubbies” and ridges that help scrub away plaque and tartar from a dog’s teeth. Their shape and texture also acts as a tongue scraper, providing dogs with great benefits when it comes to their favorite treat. Just like the original Nubbies, Dual Scrubbers are made with baking soda and chlorophyll for a more complete clean and extra fresh breath. The treats are highly digestible and available in chicken and peanut butter flavors at 
Messy Mutts Silicone Double Feeders for dogs and cats
Orbee-Tuff® Nooks from Planet Dog feature a whimsical shape and a nook, which is perfect for stuffing it with tiny treat bits, peanut butter, cheese or any favorite filling. Available in Yellow Smiley Face, Green Peace sign and a Red Heart, the Nook’s 2.5-inch size also makes the toy a perfect fit for the Orbee-Tuff Snoop® or Wood Chuck®. As with all Orbee-Tuff products, the new dog toys are durable, bouncy, minty and made in the USA. 
Petlinks’ Flitter Fly™ offers a new take on motion cat toys. The whirl-and-catch wind toy blows colorful butterflies and lightweight feathers around a clear bowl with a gentle fan that’s safe for cats. Cats delight in poking a paw through the top opening, trying to catch the swirling butterflies or flying feathers. The variable speed fan speeds up, slows down and occasionally stops to keep cats entranced, and the timed auto-shutoff feature helps preserve the life of the included replaceable batteries. Sprinkle in a bit of the complimentary Pure Bliss™ organic catnip into the bowl to ramp up the excitement of playtime. 
Richell USA’s new Flip To Play Pet Crate is an ideal way to provide your dog with a crate as well as a separate playpen area. As a crate, the Flip To Play offers a secure area with a built-in wire top and lockable doggy door, which can be secured with a latch to stay open at 180 degrees. To use the play area, simply flip the top outward for a separate playpen. You can also close the doggy door to create a divider between the crate and play area. The new crate comes with a sliding tray that is easy to take out for cleaning, and a stopper keeps it in place when your dog is using the crate. 
Give your cats something to swoon over with Pioneer Pets Nip Nibblers. The deceptively simple-looking cat toys combine irresistible catnip with a fun texture to captivate cats’ attention. The durable, 5-inch-long nylon pouches release just the right amount of catnip when chewed, squeezed or kicked. Safe and nontoxic, the Nip Nibblers come three to a pack. 
Beco Pets’ eco-friendly cat toys are made from recycled plastic bottles, stuffed with alluring catnip, double stitched for extra durability and look adorably cute. Whether your cat prefers Bertie the Budgie, Millie the Mouse or Freddie the Fish, the toys can provide hours of chasing and cuddling fun. 
Chuckit! offers a new way to play with your dog. The Ultra Sling is a versatile fetch device for long or short distances—its range is adjustable for small yards or open parks. There are four Ultra Dart styles—Spin (included with the Ultra Sling), Speed, Rugged and Float—and one Ultra Wing. The Spin and Speed come in three colors—blue/white, orange/white and green/white—and the Rugged and Float come in high-visibility orange. 
Feline Yogi’s Yoga Cat Mat is a great, no-mess place for cats to scratch and sharpen claws as well as lounge around while showing off their most sophisticated yoga poses. Handmade from traditional human yoga mat material, the mats have an attached sisal rope with a catnip-filled natural twine ball at the end to help keep cats from becoming bored. The mat can also be used to serve catnip and treats without messing up carpets or floors. Measuring 17x 24x ¼-in., it is water-resistant and wipes clean easily. 
Tiger Seamz stuffed dog toys from Outward Hound feature flat, striped seatbelt seams, extra-strong Kevlar-reinforced stitching, mega-soft stuffing and Invincibles squeakers that keep squeaking even when punctured. These adorable toys could become your best friend’s favorites; they are durably designed in an engaging array of shapes, sounds, textures and shapes—squirrel, gator, elephant, fox, tiger, duck and owl. 
P.L.A.Y.’s Purr & Pounce cat tunnel combines fun and luxury. The tunnel’s durable fabric incorporates crinkle paper and features a super-soft plush interior, a whimsical peephole for spying on humans and an interactive hanging mouse with a catnip pouch that will leave cats purring for more. The tunnel is light, portable and collapsible for easy storage and comes in two colors: sepia/espresso and ash gray/chocolate. 
Richell’s Easy-Clean Pet Crate helps make cleaning up after your dog easier than ever. The crate comes with a sliding tray that can be removed for an easy wipe down. Additional features include a specially designed sliding door that opens smoothly for easy pet access and tension locking-system to keeps your dog secure in his/her crate. A wire top is also included for extra safety. The crate has enough space for a bed, training tray and/or toys, and comes in two sizes: small for pets up to 17.6 lb. and large for pets up to 44 lb. 
Sureflap’s® Surefeed Microchip Pet Feeder is designed to control access to a cat’s feeding bowl and keep pet food fresh. The feeder’s lid seals over the food bowl and only opens when it recognizes and identifies the cat who is trying to access the food. Easily programmed for individual cats, the feeder is customizable via different colored mats and bowls, both of which are removable for cleaning. The feeder is battery powered and will operate for up to six months on four C-cell batteries. 
PetSafe’s new Sliding Glass Pet Door automatically adjusts to fit within your existing sliding glass door for a simple and quick installation with no cutting required. The door is modular and collapsible, making it convenient to carry and transport, and enabling pet owners to take the door with them if they move. Other features include a heavy-duty aluminum frame with tempered glass; weatherstripping; a glass sweep and closing panel for weather resistance; left- or right-sided fitment; and two latches for secure locking. 
Weruva’s Cats in the Kitchen line of canned cat food was inspired by cat owners’ tendency to feed their cats in the kitchen. The carnivore-pleasing, grain-free formulas features all-natural, high-quality ingredients, such as boneless, skinless white chicken breast meat, tuna, mackerel and salmon loins, lean cuts of beef, lamb and turkey, as well as fish oil and the occasional pumpkin to promote healthy digestion. The 10 varieties (all cleverly named) come in 3-oz. cans. For the curious, the name WeRuVa is derived from the founders’ cats: Webster, Rudi and Vanessa. 
The Original PoopBags’ Orange Scented PoopBags epi Rolls are eco- and wallet- friendly. The bags are made with 30 percent post-consumer material that is blended with Totally Degradable Plastic Additives (TDPA®). The mildly orange-scented bags measure 9 x 13 in. and fit dispensers that attach to leash handles. They come 15 pages to a paper-cored roll and are offered in eight-roll packs. 
Stewart® by MiracleCorp presents its Raw Naturals™ Fresh to Home™ Freeze Dried Puppy Formula, a nutrient-rich raw diet for young dogs. Made in the USA with human-grade, wholesome ingredients, the formula is enriched with DHA for brain development, calcium for strong bone development and antioxidants to help build a strong immune system. A wholesome option for all breeds, the Freeze Dried Puppy Formula boasts chicken as the No. 1 ingredient and is available in a 12-oz bag or 3.75-oz trial size. 
New from PetSafe, the Cheese toy offers cats an exciting game of peek-a-boo with two mice that pop out of each side of the Swiss cheese block. For surprise play sessions, you can use the Play While You Are Away mode to keep your cats engaged throughout the day. And during single play sessions, the timer automatically turns the toy off after 10 to 15 minutes. Requires 3 AA batteries. 
JW® Slide ‘N Snacks™ Toys are made of durable rubber and are designed to easily slide treats on and off. This helps to prevent a dog from destroying the toy as the focus is shifted to the treat. The four shapes—Ball, Bone, Jack and Maze—come in one side and in red, blue and green colors. Of course, the toys aren’t complete without JW Slide ‘N Snacks Treats. Made in the USA, the 100 percent all-natural, low-calorie treats contain rice, flour and other natural ingredients and flavoring. They are come in chicken or bacon flavors in a 4.23-oz. bag. Both are available from 
Pioneer Pet presents a fountain that is designed to encourage cats to drink more water and complement a kitchen’s décor. The Raindrop Ceramic Drinking Fountain is made from durable ceramic material; is easy to dissemble for cleaning and maintenance; and comes with a replaceable charcoal filter. Dishwasher-safe, the Raindrop is available in either black or white and can hold up to 60-oz. of circulating water. 
BioSilk® For Dogs line of salon-quality grooming products includes shampoos, conditioners, sprays, leave-in treatment and cleansing wipes. Featuring some of the same classic ingredients and innovative technology as the original BioSilk Silk Therapy line for humans, the grooming products are formulated with silk and enriching vitamins that work together to help restore the moisture balance to the coat for a silky smooth finish. All formulas are pH-balanced and safe for use with topical flea and tick treatments. 
