​Eating turkey or the skin sometimes even a small amount can cause a life-threatening condition in pets known as pancreatitis. Foods that are healthy for people are poisonous to pets. Keep away from fatty foods that are hard for animals to digest including onions, raisins, and grapes. Buy Thanksgiving treats for pets. Chocolate can be harmful to pets. The artificial sweetener xylitol can be deadly if consumed by a dog or cat. Yeast dough causes problems for pets, painful gas, and potentially dangerous bloating.
Keep the trash away from your pets behind a locked door.
Keep decorative plants away some flowers can be toxic to pets.
If you believe your pet has eaten something it shouldn't have call your vet or the ASPCA Poison Control Hotline at 888-426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661. Signs to look for vomiting, diarrhea, pain, depression, and changes in behavior.

​Cats need to scratch, they have a natural instinct to claw at things. Cats scratch for decompression, to clean dead skin from their nail beds, to mark their territory, and to communicate. Not a issue behavioral. Cats don't learn from physical punishment but will learn through strategic behavior redirection. The way cats announce themselves or leave messages when cats walk into a room is by scratching on surfaces along the way. This allows them to leave messages. If your cat is scratching your stuff because they don't have enough scratch pads available to them. Try a few different kinds of scratchers like cardboard, sisal, wood, and cork around your home. Domestic cats need variety in texture. Cats can get bored with the same things. Try to rewrap the post with fresh rope and sprinkle on some silvervine.

Cats are very intelligent your cat will be able to recognize the hand holding the bottle as a source of discomfort. This will create fear between you and your cat, it will not teach your cat anything. Do not shout or use a spray bottle as a punishment remember scratching is very natural to cats.
Homemade vertical scratcher post wrapped in a carpet.
Homemade scratching post
Large cardboard box
Duct or masking tape 
Box cutter and straight-edge
Cut the cardboard box into 4” strips. Roll a strip. Roll a strip of cardboard up very tightly. When you get to the end of it duct tape it to another strip of cardboard. Continue doing this, rolling and taping until your scratching pad measures at least 16” across. Sprinkle the top of the pad with dried catnip. When the cardboard wears out, flip it over for a whole new scratching pad.

​Heartworm is a very serious condition in cats. The first sign is when the cat suffers a sudden and fatal collapse. Just one adult heartworm can be deadly if a cat experiences an allergic reaction. Indoor cats can be affected by the heartworm disease. Usually, cats survive the heartworm disease. Symptoms can range from a slight cough, vomiting, sluggishness, or difficulty breathing, to sudden death. Unfortunately, that is a problem with living in southwest Florida. You can prevent this potentially deadly disease by talking to your cat to the veterinarian and placing your cat on a heart-worm preventative once a month for 12 months.

​Be sure to check the expiration dates. The food doesn't go bad the day after expiration. You don't want to buy so much food at one time. Buy a new bag of food every four to six weeks. Place the bag directly into the pet food container the bag is designed to help keep the food fresh. Also, roll the bag tightly and put a bag clip on it. Store in a cool and dry location. The same applies to treats.
Always keep the original bag in the event the food gets recalled.
Throw away any foods that appear spoiled or contaminated. Throw away any bulging cans or foods that look or smell. Pick up any uneaten portions of wet food after four hours. Dry food shouldn't be out in the bowl for more than 24 hours.
Wash bowls once a week.

Make plans ahead of time for your pet. 
If you must evacuate your pet should go with you. 
Keep your pet inside during a hurricane. 
Have a picture of your pet with you at all times. 
Collar with up-to-date tags. 
Contact information. 
Microchip your pet in the event it gets lost.
Have two weeks' worth of pet food in a sealed container, bring canned food and a can opener, bottled water, and bowls.
Bring a carrier with your pet's name, breed, sex, age current address.
Bring more the one leash.
Bring pee pads.
Bring two weeks' of medication in a plastic container, including heartworm and flea/tick preventatives.
Bring pets bedding, toys, and treats.
Bring a pet first aid kit in case your pet gets injured. Include styptic powder to stop bleeding. Tweezers, small blunt-end scissors, medical adhesive, tape gauze antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointment, a digital thermometer, an oral syringe, clean cloths, disposable gloves, and a muzzle.
Bring vaccination records and medical documents of your pet.

Fear is the number one cause of feline aggression understanding that and responding appropriately will help the cat. Cats are both predators and prey, and people are often perceived as the predator.
It's important to understand and learn how to read body language and approach the cat on his own terms. Do not attempt to touch or approach them. Cats often calm down after a couple of hours of the incident always be cautious. Aggression is a consequence of an emotional state.
Cats use different body postures to communicate their emotions. When observing your cat, try to get an idea of its usual attitude when alone and in contact with other animals, including people. As cats become more anxious about their surroundings, they will try to avoid contact with threats. They may change very quickly depending on the seriousness of the threat. Cat body language chart.
 ​https://www.prettylitter.com/blog/what-your-cats-body-language-means 

Ingredients that are toxic to pets include ammonia, bleach, chlorine, formaldehyde, and isopropyl alcohol. However, the level of toxicity and degree of illness can vary significantly based on the concentration, how much the pet is exposed to, and the route of exposure (ingested, inhaled, contact).  

Common clinical signs of cleaning product toxicity in pets when inhaled include: 
Sneezing, Coughing, Watery eyes, Trouble breathing, Increased rate of breathing, Open-mouth breathing (in cats), and Bluish-colored gums.

Common clinical signs of cleaning product toxicity in pets when contact with the skin occurs are redness and irritation, Sores or blisters, Rash, and Chemical burns.

Common clinical signs of cleaning product toxicity in pets when contact with the skin occurs are redness and irritation, Sores or blisters, Rash, and Chemical burns. Other products that may contain ammonia: are furniture polish, toilet bowl cleaner, oven cleaner, and stainless-steel cleaner.  

Bleach and chlorine are chemically identical. The difference is their concentration: Bleach is more likely to have a 3%–6% concentration, whereas pool chlorine can be a 10%–12% concentration. The toxic ingredient most commonly appears on product labels as sodium hypochlorite.  

Phenol may appear on a product label under many names, including butylated hydroxytoluene, benzenol, carbolic acid, phenolic acid, Bakelite, and alkylphenols. 

If your pet was exposed to a cleaning product, this may be a medical emergency. Act quickly to determine if they need to be seen at the emergency room. 
When possible, switching to pet-safe cleaning products reduces the risk of exposure to toxic chemicals. 
Locate the product label and contact your veterinarian or one of the animal poison control centers (Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661 or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435).  

​There are many other underlying reasons that cats may ingest cat litter. With pica, it is important to investigate whether there is an underlying medical issue causing the behavior. Some cats ingest the litter when playing, That can become a problem if it is impacted in their gastrointestinal tract. Food-based products such as corn cobs, husks, walnut shells, wheat, or grass can be enticing to cats of their scent. Some cat litter is toxic, especially if ingested in large amounts or ingested chronically over long periods of time.
The best way to identify an individual cat's set of toileting preferences is to offer a variety of litter choices and large box styles.
Most cats like using the large litter box. It is best to purchase large plastic storage boxes to use as a litter box.
Feeding dog or human food to cats and kittens can lead the cats to search out other things to fill their stomach including cat litter. It is very important to have your cat or kittens eat appropriate well-balanced cat food.

​Microchipping is great for pet safety. If the pet goes missing it becomes strenuous for people to find the lost pet. If you find a lost pet take it to a vet office or animal shelter and have them scan the microchip. 
The microchip is inserted beneath the shoulder blade of your pet with a simple injection. The procedure does not stress or hurt the dog. After the procedure is done be sure to enroll your pet's ID code with your contact information then a scanner is used to be sure that the microchip is working so the dog can be identified.

Take a look at your pet's bed if you see a lot of soiling, chewing, and roughhousing. If you throw it in the wash and it doesn't come clean or it's been torn beyond repair, it may be time to replace it. You don't want your pets to be chewing off any pieces it could choke them. Use a waterproof, washable cover. Before you wash their bedding make sure you remove the pet fur and dirt and pretreat any stains or urine with a quality enzymatic cleaner before you put it in the washer. It's always good to wash in a cold gentle cycle to remove stains. Use sensitive skin detergent best to avoid respiratory and skin irritation you can also use sanitizer. Be sure to let it dry thoroughly before you allow your pets to use it. Pet beds should be cleaned every couple of weeks.

​It takes just one bite from a mosquito that’s infected with heart-worms larvae to jeopardize your pet’s health and welfare. And if your pet becomes infected, the heart-worm disease is often debilitating and can be fatal if it’s not treated. The majority of dogs who go untreated will not survive. Cats and ferrets are vulnerable to heartworm. It is best to keep them all on year-round heart-worm preventative. It's more common for heartworms in cats to die before they reach full maturity. The best way to keep the cats healthy is to keep them on heart-worm medication because there are no drugs or treatments for heart-worm. House cats are also at risk of heart-worms if not treated in case a mosquito comes in with disease-carrying.
It only takes one bite from an infected mosquito to infect a pet. Mosquitos are highly adaptable and will find other places to breed even during drought.
Areas with standing water, including ponds, lakes, and swimming pools, can provide breeding conditions for mosquitos.
Natural remedies are not recommended as alternatives not effective.
It's less expensive to prevent canine heartworm than it is to treat it.

Hydrogen peroxide 3% make sure the date is not expire fresh and bubbly to induce vomiting in dogs
speak with your vet before administering hydrogen peroxide
Never induce vomiting in cats
Oral syringe
Turkey baster to administering hydrogen peroxide
Tablespoon/ teaspoon for the appropriate amount
Dawn dish washing detergent
Robber gloves
Corn syrup
Beverage containing sweet electrolyte
Gauze
Nonstick bandages
Milk of magnesia
Digital thermometer
Leash
Poison control number
Pet Poison Helpline 1(855) 764-7661
​www.petpoisonhelpline.com.

It is best to familiarize yourself with what is normal for your pets.
Check weekly for lumps gently stroke the head and work your way into the rest of the body looking and feeling for things that don't belong on the dog or cat bumps, tenderness, wounds, parasites and burrs, in the pets coat.
Sniff the ears and remove dirt and waxy debris with moistened soft cloth specific ear cleaner do not use alcohol it will dry the ear canal and can sting if the pet has scratched with her claws.
Possible sign of ear infection red, smells bad, pepper or coffee ground like dirt, ear mites see the vet.
​Eyes tear excessively, have a thick discharge or rubbing the eyes. Use purified water, flushing from the outer corner gently pull up on upper eyelid allowing fluid and debris to run down the snout have the vet look at the eye.

No punishment for behavior related to fear, phobia, or anxiety,  this will only increase the fear response. It can even lead to aggression toward the person that is punishing the cat. No yelling and squirting your cat with a water bottle.  Anxiety can also be brought on by physical pain, illness, or trauma. Cats that were deprived at a young age of improper socialization and environmental exposures may become fearful or anxious. Some cats have separation anxiety. Left untreated, these disorders are likely to progress be sure to see a vet. ​

Amphibians secrete a mucus through their skin to help them evade predators, but in some species this slime is toxic. The Colorado/Sonoran River Toad, Marine Toad and Cane or Bufo Toad can kill by affecting the heart and central nervous system. To avoid pet interactions with poisonous toads:
Teach pets to “leave it” and not chase critters.
Observe when investigating uncharted territory.  
Article By Denise Fleck, The Pet Safety Crusader ​

These first-aid practices should be implemented in the event of a snake bite: For non-venomous snake bites:                                                                                        Wash the wound with antibacterial soap and observe. If red or warm to the touch, get to the veterinarian for antibiotics or other treatment. If unsure, assume it was a venomous bite:
Keep bite wound below level of heart to slow absorption; do not wash or massage area.
Keep animal calm since the faster he breathes and circulates blood, the faster the venom moves.
Call ahead and get to veterinary care for treatment. Do NOT:
Cut the bite and try to suck out the poison.
Manipulate the bitten area or allow the pet to move about freely. Place an ice pack over the bite.  
​Article By Denise Fleck, The Pet Safety Crusader

Remove anything that attract flies—fallen fruit, pet feces, uncovered garbage—and use fly traps.                                                                                                          When pets are outdoors, apply petroleum jelly or Avon® Skin-So-Soft lotion to tips of ears.                                                                                                                            Some swear flies will not bite an animal who drinks vinegar and recommend adding 1 Tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar to a pet’s water bowl.
Article By Denise Fleck, The Pet Safety Crusader  ​

A routine examination on pets that are healthy is a good preventive. Puppies and Kittens need to see a vet every 3-4 weeks until they complete all of their vaccinations. Healthy young adult cats and dogs should be seen at least annually. Senior and geriatric pets should be seen more often by a vet to help catch early signs of disease. Senior cats with chronic conditions should be seen more frequently.                                                                                                                       Your dog may get other vaccines to prevent illnesses like kennel cough, and outdoor cats should get feline leukemia vaccines. Bring in a stool sample from your pet, to have checked for intestinal parasites. Mention any changes you've seen in your pet.

Aggressive behavior a special diet may help. Hide some of the toys and then reintroduce them that should keep the kitty from getting bored. A wand is a good toy for you to play with your cat and it's also a good exercise for the cat. Cats also love catnip. Aggression can be related to a threat or attack. Sometimes misguided play with the owner can result in a showing of dominance and fear. If the cat normally is not aggressive take the cat to the veterinarian for a checkup.

​Early socialization with other kittens is great they learn to interact with pets and people building confidence makes them feel more secure in their environments. Cat socialization is a process of developing trust in your cat and acclimating him/her to animals and people. Human touch is preferred by the cat that is friendly they like it when you touch around their facial glands, the base of the ears, and under the chin. Also, be positive and give the cat toys, treats, and praise each time you touch him/her. Sometimes cats avoid human touch if they are anxious or stressed. Socializing should be fun play with your cat as much as you can but keep the sessions brief.

Keep your cat's teeth and gums healthy. There are many health risks for felines it can be prevented by brushing their teeth every day. Use a small toothbrush and toothpaste formulated for felines and gently brush your cat's teeth. Keep an eye on anything that could be a problem like excessive drooling, pus, difficulty chewing food, loose teeth, ulcers on gums or tongue, red and swollen gums, a dark red line along the gums, and excessive pawing to the mouth. Any sign of gum inflammation take the cat to the vet for an exam.

Make sure your kitty is used to the sound of clippers before you attempt to trim the nails. First, set them on the ground and let your kitty sniff them. Clip your own nails from time to time and let the kitty get used to the sound. You can wrap your kitty in a blanket or towel, placing the kitty on a counter top or table can distract the kitty enough to get the trim done. When the kitty is still gently squeeze one toe until the retractable nail is extended out and clip and immediately give the kitty a treat.