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Some key pet or cat essentials are always great to have on hand. Please note these may vary by your pet type and size.
Even if I’m suggesting items for cats I will try my best to list the dog version.
1. Carriers
There are a variety of pet carriers from backpack styles to soft crates to larger crates. I tested a backpack style one year ago. it was safe to say Pal didn’t think he liked it.
I’ve always used hard-shell pet carriers. I still have the original carrier I bought for Pal over 20 years ago.
The newer plastic carriers are a bit more pliable and offer more color options.
If you travel always check with your airline to see which carriers they approve. Many vet offices I’ve visited tend to like the plastic carriers especially if you are taking your pet in to be spayed or neutered.
Carriers usually range in price by size and weight they hold. Some may also vary by type of material.
Here’s a backpack carrier from Amazon.
Petco has a similar product with wheels.
I have a few of these Aspen carriers as well.
You can also find pet carriers at stores such as Walmart.
2. Nail trimmers
I don’t know about you but I always have an issue with trimming my cat’s nails. I learned when I had Pal to bribe him with treats to trim his nails.
I also found that some trimmers are a pain to deal with. I also didn’t like the clipper-style trimers either.
For the last few years, I’ve used scissor-type nail trimmers. My cats don’t fight me as much with them and they work better for them.
Chewy has a great pair for kittens. I’ve also bought some at Petco that I liked.
Amazon is a similar type too.
3. Flea comb
No matter how old your pet is there may be a time when you deal with fleas. There are a variety of flea combs on the market.
This may vary by your pet’s size and hair length. some combes are easy to hold while others look like an actual comb. Some are made of plastic while others are metal.
Everyone’s preference varies by user.
Here are a few you might like.
Plastic combs can be used because they are disposable or if you are fostering pets. I don’t know how useful they are because I’ve personally never tried them. But they are pretty affordable.
Here is a set of 4 for under $10.
Metal-teethed combs may be a better preference and quality. This may vary by the comb size and quality. One thing you want to remember is that you want it to lift your pet’s hair as you comb it not dig into their skin.
I have this double-sided comb and it works well it has higher teeth on one side and wider set teeth on the other.
I also have this single flea comb that is easy to hold.
Amazon has a set of combs with a variety of styles.
4. Placemats
Silicone placemats are a godsend. I love that they keep spills and food drops contained. they are easy to clean too. Some you can place in the dishwasher. While others you can rinse with hot soapy water.
I’ve used them for years. Pal was gifted two. I still use one and the other has been recycled for craft projects.
The mats come in different sizes and styles.
I have this Hoki in a lovely blue shade. This one is nice because it has raised sides so it catches spills well. it’s also wide enough to set an extra place and water dish. The cats love it.
Amazon has this set of two circle mats as well.
shar some of your pet essentials in the comments below.
