Cats can be fussy when it comes to litter, and if they don’t like a specific type, they may refuse to use their litter box altogether. This feline tendency can be challenging if you have an automatic litter box as they usually work with one specific litter type. Therefore, researching which litter is compatible with which auto litter box is vital before splashing out on your new high-tech unit.
Is your cat particular about where they do their business? If so, read on to learn which automatic litter box style works best with your cat’s favorite litter and help to avoid any future frustrations.
Clay is the most established and most popular litter choice among cat owners because it is low-cost and widely available in almost every pet store/market. You can buy unscented or opt for one of the many scented versions, such as coffee, apple, and green tea. The scented versions are great at masking foul odors. However, cats have sensitive noses, and many do not like the smell of citrus fruits and coffee.
The main disadvantage of clay is it is not the most environmentally-friendly litter type. However, if using it with an automatic litter box, you will use much less litter than you would if scooping manually. This is because self-cleaning systems are great at removing dirty litter only and preventing additional waste.
Clay litter also tends to track throughout the house and can create a lot of dust, although there are low-dust or dust-free options. Thankfully the design of many automatic litter boxes significantly reduces tracking, so this is no longer an issue with most units. For example, the AutoEgg features fully enclosed sides and back of the box and a tracking step on the entryway.
Clay litter is compatible with many rotating and raking styles of automatic litter boxes, such as the AutoEgg. However, it needs to have quick-clumping abilities as these systems work by scooping clumps and sifting out unused granules. Clay litter can have small or large particles, but we recommend using smaller particles in your automatic litter box for maximum functionality.
Moreover, the quicker the litter clumps, the better the system can clean. If you use a clay litter that doesn’t clump well, the lumps will break up as the rake moves through the tray, and it may not remove all debris. Quick-clumping types hold the waste together, making it easier to remove. The particles absorb the urine then hold together, forming a cement-like texture.
You can find clumping clay litter in all supermarkets, pet shops, discount stores, etc. What’s more, you can order it online from various websites and marketplaces.
Silica gel litter is rapidly growing in popularity due to its high absorbency and excellent odor control. It works by absorbing urine, evaporating the waste, and trapping the odor in the process. This allows the crystals to absorb repeatedly for up to a month for one cat using it. Like clay litter, crystal gel litter is available in both scented and unscented versions.
Many cat owners who scoop manually switch from clay to crystal gel as it tracks less, is dust-free, and requires less maintenance. Crystal silica gel is more expensive than other types but generally lasts longer, so you’re not likely to see a significant price difference.
Some cats don’t like this litter's texture as it feels very different from the surface they use to eliminate in the wild. Moreover, as crystal litter controls odor by absorbing moisture, you need to be careful about where you put your litter box. Place it away from areas of high humidity like the bathroom.
Not all automatic litter boxes with a raking mechanism use clay litter; some work with crystal gel litter instead. With these models, you can use pre-portioned bags of crystal litter that last up to 30 days before requiring replacement. Alternatively, you can disposable trays filled with crystal litter for a quick, hygienic clean-up when needed.
If buying crystal litter for your automatic litter box, you can purchase it directly from the manufacturer’s website. You can also purchase it on Amazon and choose from original, sensitive (free of perfumes and dyes), or lavender scented. As this style is growing in popularity, many pet stores now stock it too.
Although you can use silica gel litter for up to one month, you can get washable litter that will last even longer. This is ideal for those who find it a nuisance to buy and transport heavy bags of litter. Now, of course, no cat owner would willingly wash their litter granules by hand to save money and reduce cat litter usage, but certain self-cleaning litter boxes will do just that.
Automatic litter boxes with rotating or raking mechanisms cannot wash and reuse litter; however, an alternative flushing system can. This system operates like a toilet by connecting to the drain. It cleans the granules, flushes away the waste, then dries the granules ready for the next use. This whole cycle takes around 30 minutes.
If using a self-flushing litter box, you’ll need to purchase the washable granules from the manufacturer or on Amazon. As you would expect, this litter type is much more expensive than others, but each box will last you up to six months.
While most cats favor unscented clay litter, this is not the case for all felines. When choosing an automatic litter box, it’s best to choose one that works with a litter type your fur baby is familiar with and likes. Doing so will result in quicker acclimation and reduce the chance of any litter box problems or anxiety with their new bathroom space.
]]>Like with any high-tech electronic device, you may occasionally experience a problem with an automatic litter box. If you’ve recently got your AutoEgg or are wary of tech in general, it can be worrying when things don't go as planned. However, rest assured that you can rectify the vast majority of automatic litter box issues both quickly and easily. We're here to help!
To put your mind at ease, we’ve created a helpful guide to dealing with the most common troubleshooting issues of the AutoEgg in particular. Whether you're seeking immediate help or preparing for the worst make sure to bookmark this page as your go-to reference for all things troubleshooting.
Is your touchscreen not responding? First of all, it may simply be that you are not pressing down for long enough. Because the AutoEgg uses a capacitive sensor, it’s always best to use a long and firm press when interacting with the display panel.
If the screen doesn’t respond to a long press, it’s likely that there is litter stuck under the panel, making it unresponsive. We find this to be the problem 9 out 10 times, and luckily, it’s an easy fix.
To get the screen working again, you will need to remove the litter granules that are wedged under the panel. Because the AutoEgg uses small particle clumping clay litter, removing loose particles isn't too difficult. You can use a needle, a thin strip of hard plastic, or even a toothpick to remove the debris.
If you want a visual guide, check out our troubleshooting video for unresponsive screens.
Top Tip: Your AutoEgg comes with a protective cover over the display panel. We recommend keeping this on to prevent any debris from getting beneath the panel or screen scratches.
Every AutoEgg is set to automatic mode by default. If like most users, you want to use the self-cleaning method, there’s no need to adjust the setting otherwise.
It’s common for people to assume they need to set this up before use and press the “Rake” button on the display panel. However, this is the button to switch it to manual mode. If you press “Rake”, the system will send the rake to one side, but it will stay there and won’t return on its own like it would in auto mode.
The unit will not initiate any cleaning cycles unless it's prompted by the rake button once it's in manual mode.
If you accidentally set your automatic litter box to manual mode, don’t stress! The easiest way to switch it back is to unplug the unit, wait 10 seconds, and then replug.
This will completely reset the system right back to auto mode. You can then check that the cleaning mode is set to “Automatic” and not “Manual” in the display panel’s settings menu.
After resetting your AutoEgg, you may want to check that it is functioning correctly. To do this, follow this functionality testing guide:
Top Tip: Press the “Sensor” button in the settings menu to reset the weight sensors.
If you’re still unsure, check out our walkthrough video on testing your AutoEgg’s functionality.
Whenever you deep clean the AutoEgg or top up the litter, you will need to take off the lid to gain access to the litter bed. Putting it back on can be a little tricky as it needs to align properly to fit into the grooves of the panel.
First, use the handy pegs at the back of the base to align the top cover. Starting with the "butt" of the lid first will make guiding the sides much easier.
Then guide both sides inch by inch from back to front to secure it into place. The first time you try this, you may fumble slightly, but you will get a feel for it after a few tries.
Once it’s aligned all the way, run your hands along the sides to ensure it's smooth and properly fitting into the panel.
Lastly, apply pressure by pressing the top of the lid down and inwards as you move your hands toward the opening of the box.
Confused? Watch this handy video for visual tips for putting the lid on.
If your cleaning rake keeps falling off, it’s likely not that it's not fully attached. Check if there is a gap between the side of the rake and the motor housing unit.
When properly connected, there should be no gap here. Check both sides because even if one side is not correctly attached, it can cause the rake cover to pop off.
To fix this, grab the underside of the back of the motor and pull up. You will see the rake’s teeth move away from the tray, and the force of your squeeze will realign the rake at the edge of the motor housing.
If your rake continues to fall off, check out this video for a deeper explanation of the rake setup and additional tips for reattaching it.
This troubleshooting guide and our helpful videos will allow you to fix common AutoEgg issues in no time. However, if you’re still having issues or you think you have a more severe problem with your AutoEgg, get in touch! You can message us for additional support via Facebook Messenger or by emailing support@chillx.co. We’re always here to help!
Visit our homepage here to learn more about the specs of the AutoEgg and certain functional capabilities you may not know about it!]]>So you’ve taken the leap to join the ChillX family with your new AutoEgg self-cleaning litter box. Now you have your new high-tech automatic litter box, how can you best look after it?
Check out our guide to caring for your new automatic litter box and how you can help maintain your unit for a reliable clean with a long lifespan!
]]>So you’ve taken the leap to join the ChillX family with your new AutoEgg self-cleaning litter box. Now you have your new high-tech automatic litter box, how can you best look after it? Keeping in touch with ongoing care can extend the working lifespan of your unit for years to come.
Like all electronic products, a self-cleaning litter box needs particular care to maintain optimal efficiency. While the AutoEgg doesn’t require a great deal of upkeep, there is some regular maintenance that you’ll need to familiarize yourself with going forward.
To make this as easy as possible, we’ve compiled a list of the AutoEgg’s standardized maintenance requirements, with a clear and concise explanation for each task.
After every cleaning cycle, your cat’s waste is sifted into the storage compartment towards the end of the litter bed. You will need to empty the tray’s contents and replace the liner regularly. This space holds 2 liters, which is 3-6 days’ worth of waste for one regular-sized cat, depending on their litter box habits.
Therefore, those with one cat will only need to empty the drawer once or twice a week. If you have two cats sharing the litter box, you’ll likely need to do this more frequently depending on how often they're using the bathroom.
Emptying the waste compartment couldn’t be easier. Simply pull out the drawer, remove the garbage bag with its contents, and then replace it with a new liner before closing things back up. All done! While we do offer biodegradable liners on our site any small plastic bag at home with work with the waste drawer just fine.
One thing automatic litter boxes have yet to do is automatically top up the litter! However, ensuring the litter bed is appropriately full doesn’t take much effort overall.
Thanks to the thorough cleaning of the horizontal raking system, only dirty litter is removed. This means all unused granules remain in the litter tray. While manual scooping can often be difficult in terms of separating the good from the not-so-good, automatic litter boxes are specifically designed to rake through and preserve clean litter.
If you have just one cat using the litter box, you’ll only need to top up the litter once or twice a week at most. For convenience, we suggest checking the litter levels whenever you empty the waste drawer during the week.
There are "min" and "max" lines on the inside of the box, showing you how much litter to pour in and maintain. It’s vital to follow these markers as filling above the max line can potentially damage the unit by putting additional strain on the motor. It can also make your cat more prone to kicking litter out of the box, increasing the chance of tracking and creating fall out.
Aside from the small regular maintenance tasks, you will need to deep clean the AutoEgg now and again. Most cat owners deep clean their AutoEgg every 2-6 weeks, depending on their cat’s litter box behavior. If your kitty doesn’t make too much of a mess, it should be sufficient to deep clean every 5 or 6 weeks.
To clean the unit, you first need to disassemble it. But don’t worry, this couldn’t be simpler and only takes about 60 seconds. If it’s your first time taking the AutoEgg apart, check out our helpful walk-through video first.
Once you’ve dissembled the automatic litter box, you will need to empty the waste drawer and litter bed before cleaning all the essential parts separately. The components you can clean are:
The good news is you don’t need any special cleaning products for this one. We recommend washing all these parts with mild soap and water only. Of course, if there is cat waste on any piece, it’s best to spray and wipe it with disinfectant to remove all bacteria and keep things safe.
It’s vital to note that the base of the AutoEgg is NOT washable. However, if it’s dirty, you can gently clean it with wipes. Be careful when doing this, as the base contains the engine and the motor. If these components get wet, they could stop working entirely.
If you find stray litter particles in the base, don’t attempt to remove them with wipes. Instead, tip the base upside down carefully, and they will fall out.
Wait until the parts are thoroughly dry before resembling the AutoEgg to ensure no moisture gets into any of the small cracks and crevices. Putting the unit back together is just as trouble-free as taking it apart; simply reverse the disassembly steps.
Whenever you deep clean the AutoEgg, you should also empty and throw away the old litter and refill it with fresh granules. There is really no need to do this any more than once every month or two, so keep it simple for yourself and combine these two maintenance tasks into one cleaning day.
The AutoEgg comes with a 12-month warranty in the event of any issues that may arise. Keeping a close eye on the functionality and upkeep of your unit will ensure you're getting the best experience you can with your new AutoEgg!
Proper care will prevent technical issues from happening and increase your unit’s lifespan, allowing you the peace of mind of a reliable clean for years to come.
]]>Here at ChillX, we know just how important it is to transition your cat smoothly to a new litter box. If your cat doesn’t take to their new bathroom space, this can bring on unwanted behavior issues such as eliminating outside of the box.
Check out some of your tips and tricks for how you can ensure your feline friend will fall in love with using their new automatic litter box.
]]>Here at ChillX, we know just how important it is to transition your cat smoothly to a new litter box. If your cat doesn’t take to their new bathroom space, this can bring on unwanted behavior issues such as eliminating outside of the box.
To avoid this, we carefully considered the design of the AutoEgg to make sure our automatic litter box appeals to the curiosity and accessibility of all cats. We chose an egg-shaped dome as it appears inviting and intriguing for most felines. We found the majority of kitties acclimate to it rather quickly and end up loving their new high-tech space in no time.
However, some felines are naturally more a bit more anxious and rather cautious when it comes to change. If your cat is very resistant to disruptions in their routine and doesn’t enjoy having to adapt, you might have to step in to help move the adjustment along.
There are many excellent litter training guides online (such as our acclimation tips article). Even so, adjusting your kitty to their new self-cleaning litter box does not have to be a headache.
We've put together some fun and creative ways to help your kitty fall in love with their new automatic unit while allowing you to engage and bond with your fur baby in the process. Give these ideas a go for a painless and successful litter box switchover.
Ok, hear us out! If your kitty is not showing any interest in their new AutoEgg, one fail-proof way to spark their curiosity is with cardboard. Almost all cats obsess over new cardboard boxes in the home and will happily explore them. You can ‘trick’ your kitty into entering their automatic litter box by covering it with the original cardboard box it came in!
Cut an opening in the front of the box to reveal the entryway of the AutoEgg. You can also cut a gap to pull the plug through and another in front of the waste drawer. In this way, you can empty the waste compartment without removing the cardboard box.
Another way to entice your furry companion to their new automatic litter box is with treats. If your cat is motivated by food, this hack is bound to bring success.
Place your kitty’s favorite treats (the smellier, the better) around the sides, back, and front of the unit. When your cat goes to claim their snacks, without realizing, they will spread their scent on and around the box, making it seem more familiar and less scary.
This might get your feline sniffing around the box, but they could still be averse to going inside. If that’s the case, you can put treats inside the box resting on one of the side panels so it stays clean. We wouldn't recommend this long term for sanitary reasons but it's a good first step to breaking the ice for your kitty.
It may take a while before your cat builds up the courage to follow the smell and enter the unknown, so be patient. When they eventually step into the AutoEgg, praise your cat and offer lots of reassurance.
With each time, they will start to associate entering the box with something positive. If your cat loves catnip, you can also try this technique using that instead of treats.
The positive association doesn’t just work well when training dogs; it is also an essential element with cat training and acclimation. Therefore, we suggest rewarding your cat after each time they use the AutoEgg, at least for the first 5 to 7 days. But, instead of seeing this as a draining training step, view it as a chance to spend more quality time with your cuddly kitty.
Mix up the rewards by giving a combination of petting, cuddles, praises, playtime, and treats. Your cat will be overjoyed with this increased affection. They will feel so loved that they won’t be able to see their new self-cleaning litter box as anything other than a good thing.
If your cat is acting afraid of the litter box and avoids the whole area, you might have more luck enticing them to that spot when they are ramped up in the middle of an intense play session.
When cats play, they switch to hunting mode, which makes them more confident and less fearful. Start your play session away from the AutoEgg. Once your kitty is energetic and engaged, slowly move towards the litter box so they build up spatial comfortability with the unit.
This works very well if you play with a dangling style toy such as the classic feather on a wand. A shoelace, tie, or dog leash also works perfectly.
Have the hood off the AutoEgg and then draw the toy towards it. Start by bringing it around the box, getting your cat to run in circles. Then you can try to drape it over the sides so that your feline has to go onto the litter bed to catch it.
This method is another smart way to spread your cat’s scent onto the box and familiarize them with it. Again, it might not bring immediate results. Still, you should start to notice less fear and avoidance of the automatic litter box if you stay consistent with it.
We know it can be frustrating when your fur baby doesn’t take to a new product well. But, you can choose to see this challenge as an opportunity to strengthen your bond with your cat.
Reacting with anger and shouting at your kitty to make them use their new litter box rarely works. Responding with love, compassion, and patience will create a much more pleasant environment for everyone.
For additional tips on how you can get the most out of your automatic litter box feel free to reference our resources along with tips and tricks on our homepage.]]>As a cat owner, you may choose to keep your cat indoors for many several reasons. Perhaps there could be dangerous predators in your area, or maybe you live in an apartment with no decent outdoor space. Whatever your motive, one frightening and common occurrence many indoor cat owners find themselves in is their fur baby accidentally getting outside.
Despite your best efforts to entertain them indoors, felines are curious creatures. Leaving the door open for a brief moment can be enough for your kitty to run out and explore. Moreover, when a cat wants to get out, they can move so quickly that it's nearly impossible to catch them before they escape.
Whether your indoor cat is currently missing or you want to prepare yourself in case it ever happens, we've put together a step-by-step emergency guide.
Read on to learn what you should (and shouldn't) do if your indoor cat has run outside. Knowing how to handle this situation correctly will significantly increase your chances of a safe return in no time.
We know it's easier said than done, but it's essential to stay calm before you go out calling for your kitty. This is because your cat will sense the change in your voice. If you're screaming and shouting for your feline with panic in your voice, this could frighten them and make them feel like they are in trouble or being scolded. They will then hide from you, making it even more difficult to find them.
Your indoor cat has probably rarely been in this outside environment, so the surroundings will feel unfamiliar and overwhelming. Call your kitty's name in a way that will make them feel calm and safe by using the tone of voice you would use if they were inside.
Your instinct will probably already call you to do this but be sure to check all-around your house or apartment building, including behind. Look in any bushes as well as under trees and cars. If you live in an apartment, check the inside and outside staircases and scan all floors.
Try to put yourself in your cat's shoes (or paws in this instance). Most indoor cats are not used to the outside world, and once they are out there, they don't feel confident to stay out in the open.
Therefore, they will likely seek out a hiding spot. Cats will usually stay within a 3-4 house radius from home base as long as they can find a place to retreat within that distance. Therefore, be sure to check your immediate surroundings thoroughly before venturing out further.
If you have no luck finding your cat after your initial search, try to entice them back to you with food. Shake their treat bag, open a can of wet food, or make noise with their bowl. Cat's have a great sense of hearing, so if your kitty is within close enough range, they will come running towards the sound. You can also try walking around the area shaking their food bag and calling their name.
Do you know which of your feline's senses is even stronger than sound? Smell. Cat's can smell 1000 times better than us and detect their own scent from a great distance.
So, if your kitty has run too far and lost its way, use their scent to help guide them home. Placing their favorite blanket or even their food bowl outside can work, but the most effective way is to put their litter box out.
If the above steps have brought no luck, go around knocking on your neighbors' doors to let them know that your cat is missing. Show them a photo of your kitty, or better yet, give them a photocopy. Even if they haven't seen your fur baby, by making them aware, they can keep their eye out; some may even offer to help you look.
After speaking with your neighbors, put up posters with photos and detailed information of your cat as well as your contact details. Check for local community groups on Facebook too, and post in there to get the word out.
Although your cat probably retreated to a safe spot initially, they won't hide out forever. Cat's are nocturnal and most active when the sun goes down and before it comes up. This is also when they get most hungry and hunt for food.
Therefore, during the night and early in the morning are the best times to look for your missing cat. It's also much quieter, so your kitty will feel more confident to hunt and explore. Use a flashlight as you search to catch their eyes in the light.
In the event that someone already found your cat, they might have taken it to a local vet or animal rescue center. Make a list of all vets, animal hospitals, rescues, and shelters and start calling around.
Whenever a vet or a shelter has a lost cat come into their care, they check if it has a microchip. With a microchip, they can access your information and contact you. Therefore, if your cat has one, your chances of getting them back safe and sound are much higher.
If your feline doesn’t have a microchip, continue to check in with shelters daily by calling them and go there in person to give photos of your kitty too.
It can feel absolutely heartbreaking to lose a pet, and with each day that passes, you can become more and more disheartened. However, you mustn't lose hope or give up the search. There have been numerous cases where owners have reunited with their furry companion weeks, months, and even years after they went missing.
While it can be easy to let your mind wander to the worst-case scenario, try to remain positive and hopeful. The more ways you try to locate your lost cat, the more likely you will find them. Good luck!
]]>What do you do if you’ve just saved up and shelled out on a new, high-tech litter box for your fur baby, and they won’t use it? This can be a baffling situation concerning proper acclimation and can cause even more distress if you start to notice an accident or two outside of the litter box.
Cats are creatures of habit and do not take well to change. Of course, change is inevitable, even in the life of a cat. When we change our kitties' old products to something new, it’s not uncommon for our felines to take a while to adjust and resist acclimation.
It’s essential to take action immediately when a cat starts eliminating outside of their litter box. Felines habitually return to the same places to do their business so breaking the habit sooner rather than later is a plus. A few times of peeing on the couch is enough to solidify a new habit so taking the proper precautions and adjustments can be crucial.
If you don’t investigate the cause and solve the problem, your cat is unlikely to start using the box on its own. However, whether it’s an automatic unit like the AutoEgg or a traditional box, there is usually a reasonable solution to most bathroom issues. Follow the steps in this guide to put an end to your cat’s litter box accidents and get them feeling more comfortable with their new bathroom space.
When changing to a new litter box, the most important thing to do is put the new box in the same place as the old one. When helping your cat adjust to something new and different, limit the amount of change. Moreover, your cat’s litter box should always be in a quiet spot so they can feel safe and secure during use.
Changing to a new litter box is not a good time to switch litter as well. Avoid overwhelming your kitty by using the same litter as before. If you haven’t changed the litter and your cat is still having accidents outside of the box, it may be worth looking at the litter you are using.
It’s always best to keep the litter as simple as possible as felines are super sensitive to smells and textures. Most cats prefer unscented litter, and many scented versions can be too strong for them and put them off using their litter box. Even if they have never had any issue with scented litter before, a change such as a new unit can trigger this dislike and make them avoidant.
Also, check if additives and chemical deodorizers are used and try to find the most natural version possible. For some automatic litter boxes, this may not be possible, as they require a specific litter. However, the AutoEgg works with any hard clumping clay litter. This is the most popular litter type on the market, so there are lots of suitable options available.
Another way to make your furry companion’s new automatic litter box feel more familiar is to put their scent inside it. The best way to do this is to add some of the used litter from the old box to the new one. This will recreate the smell of their bathroom space and help them to make the connection. Alternatively, if they have a blanket they usually sleep on, you can rub this around the sides of the box as well.
Once a cat has developed a location preference for bathroom accidents, the lingering odor of their urine reinforces the habit for next time. Remember that a cat’s sense of smell is much stronger than ours (14 times stronger, in fact). So, you may no longer smell the pee after cleaning it up, but your furry friend might.
To effectively remove the scent, you’ll need to use an enzyme-based pet odor neutralizer, often found in most pet stores. These cleaning products will break down the chemical structure of urine and other residues so that your cat can no longer smell it.
What should you do if your kitty keeps returning to their favorite elimination spot despite neutralizing the odor? If this happens, you can try to stop them from going there altogether. Either create a physical barrier to block it off or cover the area with tin foil. Most cats hate the feeling of tin foil on their paws, so they will avoid walking on it.
You can also consider putting the litter box directly on top of your cat’s elimination spot. Then gradually move the box an inch or so every few days until it's in your desired location.
When your cat does start to use their automatic litter box, it’s beneficial to reward them with a treat each time. This part of the litter training method is vital. After a while, your cat will associate using their litter box with something positive and, therefore, will want to do it more.
You can also use treats to encourage use by placing one near or inside the litter box. The smell of the food will draw them to the litter box and hopefully prompt them to enter and use it.
These steps are successful nine times out of ten. If your cat is still having accidents after attempting all of the above, it’s time to visit your vet. Sometimes, eliminating outside of the box can be down to an underlying medical condition or may even require some professional guidance from a pet behavior professional.
Alternatively, your cat’s litter box avoidance could be a sign that they feel stressed about something more significant and often unrelated. For example, suppose another big change happened around the same time as changing the litter box (such as moving or the addition of a new pet).
In that case, the anxiety caused by that change could be why your cat stopped using the box. In this case, the new litter box may not be the problem, but rather because your fur baby is struggling to adjust to something else and may require a different angle of attention to resolve their issues.
If your cat’s litter box avoidance is a symptom of a medical problem, your vet may treat it successfully. However, this doesn’t mean the accidents will stop immediately. Your kitty will likely have already developed a location preference and a habit of eliminating outside the box. Therefore, you’ll still need to follow the steps listed above to put an end to the problem completely.
To learn more about automatic litter boxes and how to better improve your cat's experience visit our homepage.
]]>Unfortunately, feline obesity has become a common medical problem among indoor cats. Free-feeding, lack of exercise, and poor diet habits can all negatively impact your fur baby’s health and cause them to put on extra weight.
Obesity can increase your kitty’s risk of many other health issues such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and premature arthritis. What’s more, it can decrease your furry companion’s lifespan.
]]>Unfortunately, feline obesity has become a common medical problem among indoor cats. Free-feeding, lack of exercise, and poor diet habits can all negatively impact your fur baby’s health and cause them to put on extra weight.
Obesity can increase your kitty’s risk of many other health issues such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and premature arthritis. What’s more, it can decrease your furry companion’s lifespan.
As cat lovers, we all want our furry friends to live long and healthy lives, but with our hectic day-to-day activities, it can be challenging to keep track of a cat’s weight. Moreover, when you do notice your kitty is getting big, they may already be in an unhealthy weight range.
Because different cat breeds have different ideal weights, it’s hard to tell if your kitty is a healthy weight or not. As a very general example, most domestic shorthair cats should weigh between 7 and 10 lbs.
However, we recommend asking your vet the ideal weight for your specific cat at their current age. You will also need to take into consideration your cat’s sex. This is because males tend to weigh more than females. Once you know your cat’s ideal weight, you should weigh your kitty to see how far off they are from that.
Now, we know how difficult it is to get your feline to sit on the scale long enough to detect their weight accurately. Luckily, with the AutoEgg, you don’t need to struggle. This is thanks to the health log and alert system, which records your cat’s weight every time they visit the litter box. You can view this information on the touchscreen display panel. Because the weight sensors of the AutoEgg have a 0.03 oz accuracy, you can be sure the reading is reliable and the entries are consistent for up to 25 uses before it cycles again.
Of course, physically examining your feline will help you understand if they are out of the healthy weight range too. A hanging belly or round abdomen is a clear indication your cat needs to slim down. Likewise, if it is difficult to feel their ribs, they are probably bigger than they should be for their age.
If your cat is overweight, you should consider both their diet and activity levels. Then, make changes to both areas to increase the likelihood of weight loss and enable their success.
1) Do Not Free-Food.
Perhaps you leave a big bowl of dry kibble out when you go to work in the morning, so your cat does not get hungry throughout the day. Despite your good intentions, this is one of the most likely reasons your cat puts on weight. This is because most cats will eat more than they need if they have continuous access to food. Eating beyond their needs will surely start to catch up to them as the weight creeps on overtime.
2) Create Meal Times.
Create a meal schedule where you feed your cat at set times every day. Get clear on how many times you should feed your feline too. Healthy adult cats should eat two meals a day (or three smaller meals). For kittens, you can provide three to four small portions as they're growing. If you’re unsure, consult with your vet for assistance in creating their schedule.
3) Feed Mostly Wet Food.
Most dry kibbles contain grains and, therefore, have a higher carbohydrate content. It also has less protein than wet food, so pouches and canned food are more filling and nutritional for felines.
Wet food has a much higher percentage of water too. Because cats are not big drinkers, giving wet food increases your kitty’s fluid intake and makes them feel fuller for longer. Help to curb the cravings during the dietary adjustment in the weight loss process can be a huge help in making the transition feel painless.
4) Switch To A New Food Slowly.
Your vet might suggest that you change your cat’s food to a particular diet formula or a higher quality brand with more nutritional value. If so, avoid an abrupt change, as new foods can initially cause upset stomachs in some cats. Start by mixing both foods or giving them a small portion on the side. Then, gradually decrease the old food ratio and increase the new one until the switch is complete.
If your cat is an indoor-only kitty, it probably isn't getting as much movement as it needs. Moreover, as cats age, they naturally become less active and prefer to sleep for the majority of their day rather than play.
As their owner, it’s our job to stimulate them mentally and encourage them to play and move frequently every day. This does require time and effort from us.
To help your cat lose weight, create a twice-daily fitness regime where you actively play with your kitty for 15-20 minutes. There are many ways you can do this:
Once you’ve got your cat started on their new health and fitness regime, you’ll need to check their weight weekly to monitor the weight loss. The health tracker of the AutoEgg provides an effortless way to do this.
The system holds data from the last 25 entries, as mentioned, so you can see how quickly (or slowly) the weight is dropping off each week. Bear in mind that the data automatically replaces as your cat uses the litter box. So, be sure to take note of your kitties weight when routinely comparing the progress over the long term.
It’s vital to keep an eye on your fur baby’s weight when on a diet to ensure they do not lose weight too quickly. This is because dropping pounds too fast can lead to liver disease. Cats should lose no more than 2 percent of their total weight per week. The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention suggests aiming to lose 1 pound (0.4kg) per month.
We understand putting your cat on a diet is not the most straightforward task. The AutoEgg will assist you in the weight loss process by allowing you to keep track of your cat’s weight more easily.
With the right knowledge, planning, structure, and effort, you can successfully help your cat lose weight and live a healthier and happier life.
Visit our homepage for more details on how the AutoEgg can alter your cat's life.
]]>It has become the norm for many pet owners to involve their fur babies in their holiday festivities. In our opinion, Valentine’s Day is one of the best holidays to celebrate with your kitty and share a little love.
Luckily, cats love to be the center of attention, so they are bound to welcome the extra affection from you. Plus spending some time with our furry friends reduces stress, lowers blood pressure, and relieves loneliness.
So, even if you find yourself together or solo this Valentine’s day, you’ll feel much better focusing your attention on cherishing your kitty than reaching for the chocolates. We’ve put together our top 10 ways to show you adoration to your beloved pet this Valentine’s.
Many cats like to sleep close to their owners as it makes them feel warm and safe. If you don’t usually let your kitty sleep on your bed at night, perhaps you could make an exception just this once?
Alternatively, if your feline usually cuddles up with you at night, why not surprise them by taking a daytime nap with them too? Hold your kitty close and feel those oxytocin levels increase.
While you can find many yummy treats on the market, they don’t compare to snacks made at home with love. Making homemade cat treats is easier than you think, and you probably already have the required ingredients in your kitchen.
Many store-bought pet treats contain colors, additives, and other nasties (nothing suitable for a Valentine's day celebration). Making your own is bound to be a lot healthier for your kitty, and tastier too!
A special occasion like Valentine’s day is an ideal time to buy that cool new cat product you’ve had your eye on. There are some awesome robo-toys on the market at the moment, such as app-controlled mouses and automatic lasers.
If your cat has a lot of energy, these will provide hours of fun. On the other hand, if your kitty’s not so playful, you could treat them to an extra soft and comfy blanket or cat bed (assuming they'll actually use it and not just sleep in the nearest Amazon box).
All cats have a sweet spot where they can’t resist being stroked. For most, it’s around the head and neck, and your kitty is guaranteed to welcome a little massage there.
When feeling safe and content, many kitties love having their belly rubbed too. If your cat is chillaxing and rolls over, showing their belly to you, offer them a belly massage and enjoy their satisfied purrs.
If you frequently feel bad for not having enough time to play with your fur baby, now is your chance to make it up to them. Dedicate some time to play with your cat with no distractions.
Even if you have an older feline who isn’t one for running around the house, you can still entertain them. Try a puzzle toy that dispenses treats or a stimulating cat game app on your phone or tablet. Spending quality time with them can mean more than you think. A little play date will help to elevate their mood and make the day feel special.
Despite how fast your kitty gobbles up their dinner every day, they do notice the difference between their usual cat food and a tastier, higher-quality meal.
On Valentine’s Day and other special occasions, it’s a nice idea to treat your cat to a more premium cat food brand. Better yet, cook some fish or chicken yourself! Just make sure it's prepared plain and in a safe way for your kitty.
Some felines go crazy over catnip, while others become relaxed and calm with it. If you’ve never tested your cat’s reaction to catnip, why not try it out for the holiday?
Catnip is completely safe for cats, and most enjoy it. Our favorite ways to introduce the herb are sprinkling it on their bed or stuffing it in a soft toy of theirs.
Other than cuddles and stroking, do you know what contributes to your cat’s happiness the most? A clean litter tray! A hygienic litter box can make a massive difference to your kitty’s wellbeing, and regular scooping alone doesn't quite equate to a full deep clean.
Even if your feline is lucky enough to have an automatic litter box like the AutoEgg, it will still require a full disassembly clean now and again.
Deep cleaning means discarding all of the current litter, cleaning all parts of the box, and refilling it with fresh litter. We recommend deep cleaning the AutoEgg every 2 to 6 weeks.
We know this can feel quite tedious, so we’ve made it super easy to disassemble and clean the unit. You can check out the how-to video here.
Okay, so your kitty won’t understand this, but taking your cat for a health check-up is the most significant way to show you care (even if they aren't too keen on it).
If we want our cats to be happy (which, of course, we all do), we need to ensure they are healthy. Cat’s are masters at hiding pain and illness, so the only way to know that our fur baby is in tip-top condition is to visit the vet. Granted, it’s not the nicest way to spend Valentine’s Day, but you can shower them with affection and treats after!
Most animal lovers have a big heart with a lot of love to go around. Valentine’s day is the time to spread that love far and wide. After treating your fur baby, why not spend some time with the cats at your local shelter?
Sharing your love and affection with some rescue kitties will make their day much more special. If you have the time, you could even spend the whole day volunteering.
You’ll make the shelter cats’ lives a little brighter, and you’ll feel warm and fuzzy inside too. However, be warned, you won’t want to leave without bringing one home!
Contrary to popular belief, felines can be extremely affectionate and loving with their owners. In fact, they are probably more likely to make you feel loved on this special day than your partner is! Therefore, embrace spending the day of love with your furry companion.
]]>Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to show our loved ones just how much we care. For us cat owners, our fur babies are just as special to us as our human companions are.
So, it’s completely natural that we would want to share this special day with our precious kitties! But how exactly can you give the gift of love this holiday season?
]]>Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to show our loved ones just how much we care. For us cat owners, our fur babies are just as special to us as our human companions are.
So, it’s completely natural that we would want to share this special day with our precious kitties! But how exactly can you give the gift of love this holiday season?
The famous saying ‘the way to someone's heart is through their stomach’ is not restricted to just us hoomans (cat lingo, if you know you know). Our furry friends love food as much as we do, if not more! So what better way to show your love than with a special Valentine’s treat!
You can’t beat a snack made with love, so we’ve shared some of our favorite cat-safe recipes for homemade cat treats. These recipes are super simple, so you don’t need to be a whizz in the kitchen to make them. However, if you’re short on time, we’ve included a couple of our favorite extra-special store-bought treats as well. Check it out!
Although we would never consider putting tuna in a batch of cookies we were making for ourselves, felines love these tuna cookie hearts. They are quick to make, sugar-free, and require very few ingredients.
However, be prepared for your kitchen to smell a bit fishy while you’re preparing them. We would also advise keeping your fur baby out of the room to avoid the mixture disappearing before it even gets into the oven!
6 ounces undrained canned tuna (You can replace with tinned salmon if you prefer)
1 cup flour
1 cup cornmeal
1 egg
2 tbsp water
This is an excellent treat to make in a multi-pet household as both felines and canines love them to bits.
They are chewier than the tuna cookies, and they don’t crisp either. If your kitty isn’t a fan of chicken, swap for a fishy alternative like tuna. Moreover, if your cat loves catnip, feel free to add just a little to the mix.
250g cooked chicken (cooled)
1 cup instant oats
1 egg
¼ cup flour
1 tsp catnip (optional)
Vegans love this recipe as a healthy, dairy-free alternative to ice cream. Although bananas are not typically a feline’s favorite food, many enjoy this refreshing treat. Plus, it’s totally safe for cats too. What’s more, this is a treat you can both enjoy together, while curled up on the sofa, watching your favorite rom-com this Valentine's day!
Banana ‘nice cream’ is basically just frozen mashed banana, and you do not need to add anything else to it. To prepare:
What if a banana is not to your kitty’s liking? You can also make this cat safe ice-cream alternative with coconut flesh instead.
This is another snack you will enjoy just as much as your fur baby and requires no effort or time whatsoever. Chocolate is a toxic food for cats and should not be given even in tiny portions. However, natural smooth peanut butter can be a safe alternative as long as it does not contain the sweetener Xylitol.
Check the ingredients first. Some well-known brands contain Xylitol or an unhealthy amount of sugar. So, only give your feline peanut butter if it is homemade or the most natural kind. Moreover, only give both strawberries and peanut butter in small amounts. Your kitty might only lick the peanut butter off the strawberry, but you can also try cutting them into small pieces.
If your cat loves catnip, they will adore these catnip flavored treats from Temptations. These pocket-shaped rewards have a crunchy outside and a soft and creamy inside. They are 100% nutritionally complete with vitamins and taurine and are less than two calories per treat. This makes them a good option if you’re trying to put an overweight cat on a diet.
Are you looking for a grain-free treat without additives, colors, or preservatives? If so, you’ll feel great giving your kitty these healthy cat treats.
Made in Canada, these all-natural snacks consist of just two ingredients - North American sourced chicken mixed with vitamin E. They are freeze-dried raw to lock-in that poultry flavor your feline craves and make a suitable and yummy Valentine’s treat for cats of all ages and breeds.
Which of these tasty treats will you give to your fur baby this Valentine’s? Call us foodies, but we prefer the ones we get to eat too! Whichever you choose, be sure to shower your fur baby with affection this Valentine’s day.
For more tips on how you can care for your cat start by checking out our homepage.]]>Felines use their claws for various activities such as scratching, climbing, protection, catching prey, and marking their territory.
Most of the time, cats will keep their nails retracted while calm and content, so they will appear hidden within the fur of their paws. When your cat is feeling a bit playful or even scared, you’ll notice their claws will instinctively start to come out.
]]>Felines use their claws for various activities such as scratching, climbing, protection, catching prey, and marking their territory.
Most of the time, cats will keep their nails retracted while calm and content, so they will appear hidden within the fur of their paws. When your cat is feeling a bit playful or even scared, you’ll notice their claws will instinctively start to come out.
Just like ours, cat nails grow continually throughout their lives. Sometimes a cat’s claws can become too sharp, becoming a danger to humans and your home. There are also cases where a cat's nails may grow and curve inward into their toes and cause them pain over time. In cases like this, it may be necessary to trim your kitty’s nails at home or with a professional.
However, if you have never done it before, cutting a cat’s nails can seem a tad daunting. But, fear not, we’ve put together this ultimate guide to make this task quick, painless, and stress-free for all involved!
Cats generally keep their nails under control by scratching either the trees outside or scratching posts indoors (unfortunately without this your furniture could bear the brunt of this).
Outdoor cats usually scratch enough to maintain their nails to a comfortable length, as the coarse texture of trees is perfect for keeping them short. However, it’s common for indoor cats’ claws to occasionally need a trim from their owner, as scratching posts may not be as effective.
Most indoor kitties will need their claws trimmed every 2-4 weeks. It’s easy to tell when they need cutting as the ends will look very pointed with a slight curve, and they will feel sharp against your skin.
If your kitty does not have the right surfaces to scratch on, their nails can become overgrown. Overgrown cat nails will appear curved and may not retract completely. They can then curl in on themselves and grow into the footpad, which will be very painful for your feline.
If your cat’s nails get stuck in carpets or other soft surfaces, this is a sign that they have become overgrown. The longer your kitty’s claws are the higher the chance they could cause damage to both you and your furniture as they attempt to scratch and manage them.
Some cat owners choose to declaw their cat under the impression that doing so will prevent them from scratching and damaging the furniture. However, most owners will do so ignoring the painful impact this could have on their cat and their well being.
Declawing is a surgery that involves amputating the last bone of each front toe, along with the nail bed and claw. As you can imagine, this is extremely painful for kitties to recover from, and complications and infections can arise.
Cats have claws for a reason. Even if your fur baby is an indoor-only cat who doesn’t need to hunt or protect themselves, you should never consider declawing them as it has been deemed an unethical practice by most veterinarians.
Clipping a cat’s nails is quicker and easier than you would think. It does not cause cats any pain or lasting discomfort, providing you do it safely and correctly. Follow our step by step guide to ensure neither you nor your kitty comes to any harm during this process.
Disclaimer: If you're feeling unsure or fear you could injure your or your cat please seek help from a professional groomer or veterinarian who can trim their nails for you.
You can buy pet nail clippers from almost all pet shops, and they are usually pretty cheap. If you’re unable to get hold of a pair, you can also use human fingernail clippers (just make sure you're extra careful with your angles). Even so, we prefer cat clippers as they can properly fit the unique curve of a cat's claw.
Take your cat into a quiet room and spend a few minutes petting them as they relax. It also helps to wait until your kitty is a bit sleepy, perhaps after a meal or as they're waking up from a nap.
Put your fur baby on your lap facing away from you. Gently rest your forearm around their neck. It’s a good idea to have a towel to hand too. If your kitty starts to wriggle, burrito wrap them in the towel to gently restrain them and then pull out one paw at a time.
You can also do this as a two-person job and have one person there to hold and restrain your kitty while the other tackles each nail from the front.
Make sure to press the footpad gently to extend their nail. If your kitty pulls away, let go and wait a few moments before trying again. While you do this, have the clippers in your other hand (which should be your dominant hand) ready to swiftly get in and get out.
The most important thing to know when trimming your cat’s nails is where to cut. When you look at your cat’s claw, you’ll see a white/transparent tip, which turns pink closer to the paw.
Be sure to cut the sharp, transparent end rather than the pink part, as this contains nerves and blood vessels. This is known as the ‘quick,’ and cutting it can cause bleeding and be very painful for your kitty.
If your cat reacts badly, you won’t have much time, so it’s smart to start with the sharpest, longest nail(s) first. The nails on the front feet are usually more pointed than the ones on the back feet, which may not need trimming at all in some cases.
Give your precious kitty a well-earned treat once you have finished their clipping. This will help them associate having their nails trimmed with something good, hopefully making it easier in the future!
If this happens, the bleeding will usually stop on its own within a few minutes. Still, you can apply some styptic powder to stop the bleeding immediately. Bear in mind that your kitty will be quite distressed and in pain, so they will likely run away and hide.
If so, don’t worry, as they won’t lose a significant amount of blood. Once they have calmed down, inspect the nail and assess whether they should be seen by their vet.
This information and advice in this guide are not meant to substitute veterinary care. Always consult your vet if you’re concerned about trimming your cat’s nails, and follow their guidance.
Additionally, if your cat keeps refusing your attempts to trim their claws, or you don’t feel confident doing it, take them to a vet or groomer. They will give your furry friend a professional trim instead which usually takes no more than 10 or 15 minutes in the office.
]]>The rising concern of obesity in cats is a fast-growing problem for pet owners, with more and more people allowing their fur babies to pile on the pounds as the years go by.
While a husky kitty may make a better snuggle buddy, letting your cat become overweight can be incredibly dangerous for your cat’s overall health.
]]>The rising concern of obesity in cats is a fast-growing problem for pet owners, with more and more people allowing their fur babies to pile on the pounds as the years go by.
While a husky kitty may make a better snuggle buddy, letting your cat become overweight can be incredibly dangerous for your cat’s overall health.
Obesity is considered a serious medical condition in domesticated felines, especially older cats and indoor kitties. We all know our fluffy friends’ two favorite pastimes are sleeping and eating. However, by free feeding our fur babies and not encouraging exercise or play, they can rapidly gain weight and fall into a dangerous pattern.
Lack of exercise and overeating are not the only culprits. Kitty’s most at risk of becoming overweight are:
It’s hard to determine if your cat is overweight from just weight alone. There is no standard healthy weight range as an average cat's weight will vary depending on the breed and age. Moreover, male cats tend to weigh a little bit more than females.
Even so, most domestic shorthairs should weigh between 8 and 12 pounds. If you have a large breed cat such as a Ragdoll or a Maine Coon, ask your vet how much your feline should weigh. Statistics show these breeds can reach upwards of 15 to 20 pounds and still be healthy.
A more effective way to understand if your cat is healthy is to examine them visually.
If your cat is overweight, there is no choice but to put them on a diet to ensure they can get healthier. However, do not restrict food without consulting your vet first.
If done incorrectly, drastically changing the amount or type of food can cause digestive problems or even a vitamin deficiency. Moreover, your vet can check if your cat has any other health problems that could be contributing to the weight gain before we tackle their dietary concerns.
If your cat needs to lose weight, unfortunately for them, they will have to cut calories daily. First, you need to get clear on what an ideal healthy weight for your kitty is so you can set a small goal. Cats are most likely to lose weight slowly, steadily, and safely by eating 70 percent of the calories they need to maintain their ideal weight.
So how do you work out how many calories your cat needs? An equation many vets use is:
30 X ideal weight in kg + 70 = daily calorie intake
Let’s say your fur baby’s ideal healthy weight is 4 kg. (8.8 lbs) 30 X 4 + 70 = 190, so your feline should eat 190 calories per day to lose weight.
You can also use the method of body weight multiplication. Your cat should be eating 20 calories per pound of bodyweight to maintain their current weight.
So if your cat is 15 pounds and needs to slim down, multiple 20 X 15 and you'll get 300 calories. For your cat to lose weight they'll need to be eating only 70% of those 300 calories a day, so you'll multiple it by 0.7. Once multiplied you'll get a total of 210 calories a day for your cat to gradually lose weight in a healthy way.
If your cat is currently eating a lot more than their proposed calorie intake, reduce their food slowly to prevent rapid weight loss or anxiety.
Cats should lose no more than 2 percent of their total weight per week. Shedding pounds too quickly can be detrimental to your kitty’s health, even leading to liver disease. The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention says 1 pound (0.4kg) per month is a healthy amount for cats to lose.
Keep their water bowl full. Like us humans, sometimes cats feel like they are hungry when they are just thirsty. Ensure fresh water is always available and encourage your fur baby to drink more throughout the day.
Likewise, just because your cat is asking for food doesn’t mean they are hungry. Some kitties will ask for food when they are bored and under-stimulated. Resist the urge to give them an extra meal and distract them with a toy or game instead.
Avoid giving them any human food. Cat food is made explicitly for the unique nutritional needs of a cat. Most human foods have little to no nutritional value for felines, and many are too high in fat and sugar for a small animal. Even just a few scraps or leftovers can negatively impact your fur baby’s weight and health.
Go easy on the treats too. Cat owners tend to give their cat treats if they feel bad for being out all day or not having enough time for them. A healthier way to show your kitty your love is with a cuddle.
Putting your cat on a diet is not the most straightforward task. Still, as their primary caregiver, it’s your responsibility to keep your fur baby’s weight in check.
Your cat might be confused or unhappy about their new structured mealtimes, but be patient and don’t give in to their pleas and purrs! At ChillX we understand the importance of monitoring your cat's health metrics. We've designed the AutoEgg with a built-in touch screen that can accurately monitor their weight and even aid you in their weight loss journey. Visit our homepage to learn more. Good luck!]]>Undoubtedly, the greatest perk of owning an automatic litter box is eliminating the need for maintenance. With AutoEgg, you’re free to get on with your daily life without the worry of keeping up with a scooping schedule.
Manual scooping is not as effective as the cleaning processes used in self-cleaning litter boxes. Because of this, most cat owners with a traditional litter tray will find they not only require regular deep cleanings but more often than not a total replacement.
Our unit was designed for the deepest clean possible using a zig-zag litter tray paired with a horizontal raking system. What that translates to for owners is a better clean for your cat and less worry of keeping the litter box spotless.
That being said, even high-tech devices will require some maintenance to continue running effectively long term. Therefore, all self-cleaning litter boxes do need a manual deep clean once in a while. Fortunately, we’ve made the process of cleaning the AutoEgg as quick and painless as possible, so keeping your smart litter box in tip-top condition is a hassle-free process.
Dissembling the unit
Emptying the waste drawer and litter bed
Separately cleaning all the essential parts before putting them all back together
The components that require washing are the top cover/hood, waste drawer cover, waste drawer, cleaning rake, tracking pad, and litter tray.
Depending on your cat’s litter box habits, we recommend deep cleaning the unit and changing the litter completely every 2 to 6 weeks.
If you have only one cat using the litter box that doesn’t make too much of a mess, it should be sufficient to deep clean every 5 or 6 weeks as needed.
On the other hand, if you have multiple cats sharing the same litter box, you’ll need to deep clean biweekly to keep the box hygienic. The same goes for if you have a young kitten who has not yet worked out how to avoid getting a little messy during a bathroom trip.
You’ll be pleased to know dissembling the AutoEgg is easy enough to be done in roughly 60 seconds! Even so, follow the guide below to prevent breaking any parts. For a visual explanation, check out our helpful walk-through video.
1.First things first, switch off the AutoEgg and pull the plug out from the wall to ensure the unit is without power.
2.Remove the top cover by pulling from the edges and the top to gently shift it out from the unit.
3.Ensure that the positioning of the rake is at the back end of the litter box. If it is at the front, select the ‘rake’ button on the display panel’s menu. Selecting the ‘rake’ button will move the rake from one end of the litter tray to the other. (This will shift the unit to manual-mode)
4.Once the rake is at the back, click the waste drawer cover out of place to lift and remove.
5.Open the waste drawer and dispose of the waste along with the waste drawer liner.
6.Remove the litter residue on the rake with the litter scooper by raking the scoop through the grooves and teeth of the rake.
7.To remove the rake, place your right hand on the right side with your fingers hooking the bottom of the rake. Use your left thumb to press down on top of the rake while lifting the rake with your right hand.
8.Remove the litter tracking pad by simply lifting it out of place.
9.Lastly, slide out the litter tray. The AutoEgg is now fully disassembled.
The six removable parts are easily washable with soap and a little bit of water. If your kitty has managed to smear waste on any component, you can spray and wipe with disinfectant too (gloves encouraged).
The base of the AutoEgg is not washable. However, if it does need a clean, you can use wipes but do so with caution as the base contains the wiring that powers the motor and could get damaged if soaked.
To make the reassembly as easy as possible, we purposely left minor gaps between the parts. Because of this, you might find some stray litter particles in the base. The best way to remove them is by tipping the unit upside down (when disassembled) to let them fall out. Trying to get them out with a wet wipe could result in them sticking to the sides instead. If possible a small vacuum hose could also help.
Ensure all parts are thoroughly dry before resembling the AutoEgg.
To put the AutoEgg back together, simply reverse the disassembly steps.
Fill the tray with the fresh litter until you reach the middle of the “Min” and “Max” line. This will reduce litter tracking and maximize litter savings. Do not fill the AutoEgg past the “Max” line, as too much can make your cat kick litter out of the AutoEgg. Moreover, it could potentially damage the unit.
Remember, you can use any standard clumping clay cat litter with small particles in the AutoEgg. Don’t use silica gel crystals, recycled paper, tofu, pine, corn, or wheat litter as this can disrupt the functionality of the gears.
Once the refilled litter tray is back in place, reassemble the tracking pad and rake.
Put a new liner in the waste drawer before sliding the drawer back in and replacing the waste drawer cover. Unlike some other automatic litter boxes, the AutoEgg doesn’t require special liners. Regular grocery or recycled trash bags will fit just fine. Still, we offer perfectly-sized 100% biodegradable liners if you want to go greener.
Lastly, put the hood back on starting from the back and working your way up the sides. Plug the AutoEgg back in, and you’re back in business!
Kittens learn to use the litter tray from observing their mother and are usually already litter trained when you bring them home.
However, there are circumstances when a kitten may require some guidance in the litter box department. If they're rescued from a young age that critical period of observation could get lost and they may require a little assistance.
]]>Kittens learn to use the litter tray from observing their mother and are usually already litter trained when you bring them home.
However, there are circumstances when a kitten may require some guidance in the litter box department. If they're rescued from a young age that critical period of observation could get lost and they may require a little assistance.
From an early age, felines have a natural instinct to do their business in sand or soil and cover their waste afterward. However, in the first three weeks of their life, newborn kittens are stimulated by their mama. If there's no mother present, you will need to stimulate them to help them to use the bathroom on their own.
Many kittens will naturally start using the litter box around 3 or 4 weeks old, even if there are no other cats present to learn from. Because most traditional cat litters mimic a sand-like consistency, the majority of kittens will quickly catch on to the litter without issue.
Why The AutoEgg Is The Best Litter Box For Kittens
Not all automatic litter boxes are easy for kittens to adapt to. Many can appear intimidating with their futuristic and overarching designs. Others use alternative litter such as crystals, which feels less natural to felines than clay litter or sand-like litters.
The following design elements and features make the AutoEgg a top choice for litter training kittens and the easiest automatic litter box for young kittens to acclimate to.
With the entrance just 6 inches from the ground, small kittens feel comfortable enough to climb into the AutoEgg without fear.
Some other self-cleaning litter boxes on the market have much higher entryways which can pose an issue. While older, playful kittens may love this design, young, anxious kittens still adjusting to their new home might not.
They need a litter box that will make them feel safe and at ease, as they're trying to use it, thus one that allows them to enter and leave without effort.
The arched shape of the AutoEgg is welcoming and intriguing for cats of all ages, including young kittens. Cats love confined spaces as they make them feel safe, so the AutoEgg offers kittens a sense of security as they get their bearings for the world around them.
The automatic cleaning of the AutoEgg works with the use of motion sensors, detecting when your kitty has used the litter box. Although these sensors are highly accurate, they work best with kittens weighing at least 4.4 lbs (2 kg).
To be able to compensate for their lightweight the AutoEgg is pre-programmed to initiate 4 scheduled cleanings per day without being prompted. At 3 & 9 am/pm the AutoEgg will start a cycle to ensure the litter is always free from debris even if it didn't detect a bathroom trip earlier due to the lighter size of most kittens in their first 4 months.
The smart ‘cat-stuck prevention sensor’ used in the AutoEgg will keep your kitten safe as they learn how to use it.
Should your fur baby enter the box during a cleaning cycle, the sensitive weight sensors will detect your kitten and pause the cleaning as there are accurate sensors with a 0.03 oz accuracy that can pick up on subtle weight changes in the unit. Only when the system senses they have left will the cleaning process recommence.
An exciting perk of the AutoEgg is the inbuilt health and weight tracker. Once your cat reaches 4.4 lbs, the system will begin recording their weight during each visit.
This offers an easy way to monitor your kitten’s growth. It also logs and tracks other data to flag for any abnormalities. For example, if your kitten is experiencing diarrhea, the AutoEgg will let you know so you can keep an eye on your fur baby.
Whether you’ve just brought your new kitten home or you’re switching to the AutoEgg from a traditional litter tray, the first step is to let your kitty know where the box is.
Don’t just show them the box but let them sniff and explore around it too. This is important as cats use their sense of smell to familiarize objects and people and will start to mark certain spaces with their scent.
Once your fur baby knows where the litter box is, don’t move it as this will confuse them. While exploring, your kitten might enter the box themselves. If not, you can put them in it and gently use their paws against the litter to mimic the motion of digging.
A cat’s need to eliminate is usually the strongest after they’ve just woken from a nap or eaten a meal. Therefore, put your kitten in the litter box immediately after eating or sleeping.
Moreover, keep an eye on them during other times too. Signs that your fur baby may need to relieve themselves include sniffing or crouching in a particular area. If you notice your little feline is doing this, put them in the box to encourage them to go in the appropriate space.
Depending on your cat, they might start using the box straight away, or it may take a few days. If it does take a while, there could be some accidents along the way. If this happens, resist yelling, scolding, or punishing them in any way. This will create stress and anxiety in your cat, making the litter box training process longer and more difficult.
If your kitten is not adopting the AutoEgg, you can remove the hood and see if this quickens up the process. While most cats will find the enclosure intriguing some may find it intimidating at first.
If they start to use it, wait until they are using it comfortably and regularly before putting the hood back on.
When you see your fur baby using the box, give them a treat and some praise so they can associate the behavior with something positive. Rewarding your kitten will let them know they have done a good thing and encourage them to continue.
Perhaps you’re using a self-cleaning litter box like the AutoEgg to train your kitten for the first time, or maybe you’re about to switch to one from a manual tray.
Either way, our guide to training your kitten with an automatic litter box will help you acclimate your kitten as quickly and as trouble-free as possible.
To learn more visit our homepage here.
]]>So, you treated your fur baby to a brand new automatic litter box, hoping it makes life a little easier for the both of you. However, your kitty is not quite sure about the new gadget at home and stays clear of it entirely. If this has happened to you, fear not!
Cats are curious creatures and love to explore new things in the home. However, some kitties will take to an automatic litter box easier than others. It may just be the case that your feline needs some time and a little assistance to get used to their new bathroom space and start using it with confidence.
If your cat seems more afraid of their automatic litter box than intrigued, there are quite a few tips and tricks you can try to ease their adjustment period.
An automatic litter box can look quite different from your cat’s old traditional litter tray. Therefore it’s no surprise that your kitty might not use it immediately. When introducing a self-cleaning litter box, don’t just discard their old tray from the get go.
Let your cat have access to both boxes for the first few days so they can explore their new gadget without feeling anxious whenever nature calls. Wait until they have used the automatic box a couple of times before taking away the old one.
When you introduce your cat to their new high-tech litter box, try putting it next to their old one. This will help them to understand its purpose and explore using it as a new bathroom space. Plus, keeping your cat’s bathroom set up in the same location will minimize confusion and keep things feeling consistent for them.
One of the biggest fears cats have about a self-cleaning litter box is the cleaning process itself. If your kitty tries out the litter box, but the automatic cleaning process then spooks them for good, they might hold off using it in the future.
To prevent this, keep the box switched off initially. The first few times your feline uses the box, just scoop as usual until they've had time to get comfortable with usage.
This shows your cat that the new box is just like their old one, removing any fears and easing them into the process. Once they are using it regularly and appear comfortable, you can switch it on and gauge the situation accordingly.
Because cats are territorial, they like everything in their space to be marked with their scent. If something new suddenly appears in the home and doesn’t have their scent, they will naturally feel wary of it.
Cats commonly rub themselves on an object to mark it with their fragrance. However, if they’re particularly fearful of something with an unfamiliar scent, they might avoid it altogether.
If this is the case, you can mark the new box with their scent for them. A super-smart way to get your kitty to use their new automatic litter box is to put some of the litter from their old box right into the new one.
By adding just a few scoops not only will they associate their new automatic litter box with their scent but they'll come to connect it with the scent of their old bathroom set up.
Introducing a new litter box is not the right time to try out a different litter either. Luckily, the AutoEgg works will all clay clumping litters, so there should be no need to switch to any of the fancy types to match your fancy new machine.
Furthermore, another way to add your cat’s scent to the box and help them feel more comfortable around it is to take a blanket they lay on and rub it on the outside of the box. With just a little touch of the oils left from their coat they'll assume the AutoEgg is theirs and theirs only!
Many automatic litter boxes, such as the AutoEgg, have a hooded, enclosed design. This construction not only looks sleek at home, but it reduces tracking and keeps foul odors contained until the self-cleaning process is complete. Nonetheless, if your cat is not used to using a hooded box, this could be a big change for them to get used to.
All cats are different; some like hooded boxes because they give more privacy for hiding, whereas others prefer an open space where they can see what’s going on around them.
What's unique to AutoEgg is that the hooded design is completely removable. As long as you remove the tracking step along with it for balance the unit will remain entirely functional. You can try this method as your kitty gets more and more comfortable with using an automatic litter box and try popping it back on when they're feeling settled.
Cats are nowhere near as easy to train as dogs. However, all felines are willing to pay attention for treats. There are two ways you can use goodies to encourage your cat to use the automatic litter box and reward them for when they do.
Firstly, if your cat avoids the litter box altogether, place a treat next to or behind it. This will motivate them to explore it more from a closer angle to break the fear of approach.
If they are investigating around the box but not using it, you can try placing a treat inside along the panel or at the entrance. Once your fur baby starts using the litter box, reward them with a treat for good behavior. Be consistent with this, so they learn that using the automatic litter box is a positive behavior that wil be rewarded.
Cats are the masters of many things (like sleep and sass for instance), but something they struggle with is change! Usually, if your kitty shies away from their automatic litter box, they’re not trying to be difficult; they are just struggling to adapt from what feels normal for them. As the caring, patient cat owners we are, it’s our job to ease them into anything new, showing them that change is okay!
At ChillX, we understand cats’ anxieties and preferences. We designed the AutoEgg with features to help your kitties adapt more easily to an automatic option. Check out the homepage to learn more about all of our features and benefits with AutoEgg.
]]>Is your fur baby cuddly and loving one minute, then sinking their teeth into your skin the next? Or does your kitty play just a little too aggressively and doesn't understand the strength to their bite? Biting is a predatory instinct and a typical cat behavior when playing and exploring new things.
]]>Is your fur baby cuddly and loving one minute, then sinking their teeth into your skin the next? Or does your kitty play just a little too aggressively and doesn't understand the strength to their bite?
Biting is a predatory instinct and a typical cat behavior when playing and exploring new things. However, not all cats seem to understand that biting their owner or other humans is unacceptable behavior.
If this is the case for you and your feline friend, fear not. It is possible to teach your cat to control their bite when playing and curb the tendency for recurrence.
Kittens learn how to behave from the interactions they have with their littermates and mother. When playing together, kittens teach each other how to bite gently. If one bites another too hard, the victim will discipline the offender, teaching them to reign it in and use less force in their bite.
If taken away from their mama and siblings too early, a kitten will not have the chance to learn those playtime manners.
Additionally, the bite strength a cat can tolerate is often too much for us, so we may have to continue training them. Aside from playing rough, kittens can also bite to communicate a need or if they are teething.
Without being taught to play gently, a kitten will not understand that their bite hurts you. It's important to set boundaries early on in their training to reinforce what is acceptable and unacceptable behavior. Here are our top tips on how to train your kitten to stop biting.
There are a few different reasons why adult cats may be biters.
Redirect & Reward - Like with kittens, redirect your adult cat to an appropriate toy to bite instead. Ensure your cat has enough toys and stimulation to take their energy and frustration out on so they don’t need to seek you out. Reward them with treats every time they redirect their attention from your skin to their toys.
Clicker Training - If your kitty tries to attack your feet whenever you walk past them, you can try clicker training to get them to stop. Once they stop and sit, reward them with a treat. After a while, they will start to associate the click sound with the reward.
Don’t Pull Away - When your cat bites your hand, and you move it away, it mimics the reaction of prey trying to escape. This encourages your cat to attack harder. Instead, push your hand into your cat’s mouth gently. Although this goes against your instinct, the action will confuse your feline and cause them to let go as it’s not what prey would do.
Although less common, felines of all ages may bite you if they are suffering. Just like humans, cats can become short-tempered and snappy when they are sick or injured.
If your kitty suddenly starts to bite while unprovoked, particularly if they bite and hold on, it could be a sign that they are in pain and are trying to get your attention or find some relief.
If your cat keeps biting you after trying all of the above, consult with a pet behaviorist who can advise you further.
Never use physical punishment on your feline as this will stimulate them more and cause them to fight back. Yelling and hitting can make your cat fearful of you and their home environment, which could lead to anxiety-related behavior and a greater distance between you two.
Keep calm, keep patient, and show them you'll love them through their learning process. Change is a slow step for our kitties but well worth the effort.
]]>Surprisingly, many human foods are toxic to felines, including some of our favorite treats. One of these treats being chocolate, which is extremely harmful and even life-threatening should your fur baby accidentally eat some.
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Before we begin this article please note that you can reach pet poison control for advice and guidance 24/7 at (888) 426-4435. While this article is not intended to offer or substitute pet medical advice it will help guide you to watch out for classic symptoms and take immediate and preventive action when needed.
Surprisingly, many human foods are toxic to felines, including some of our favorite treats. One of these treats being chocolate, which is extremely harmful and even life-threatening should your fur baby accidentally eat some.
It's not down to the sugar, fat, or milk in chocolate that makes it poisonous. While these ingredients are by no means suitable for your kitty, there is one particular ingredient in chocolate that is significantly harmful to many animals.
This is ‘Theobromine’ - a plant alkaloid that naturally occurs in cacao. Along with Theobromine, caffeine also becomes toxic when ingested by a feline as their delicate digestive system can't adequately process it.
The short answer is very. All types of chocolate, including cocoa powder, can be harmful to our kitties. Even so, dark chocolate and baking chocolate are the most toxic as they contain higher levels of cacao and thus a stronger concentration of theobromine. Even a tiny amount of this decadent chocolate can trigger poisoning in a cat.
While still toxic, white chocolate can potentially cause less harm as it contains a much lower percentage of Theobromine. However, there is a higher amount of milk product used, which could give your fur baby an upset stomach. Therefore, it’s vital to keep all forms of chocolate stored safely away from your pets.
So what do you do if you suspect your kitty has gotten into your freshly baked chocolate chip cookies? Or the chocolate bar you forgot to put away the night before? Well, the first signs of poisoning will likely appear within 2-4 hours of consumption. Here are the most common symptoms of cat poisoning to look out for:
If you have reason to believe your cat has eaten chocolate but have not seen them do so, here’s what to do:
Once your cat is at the vet’s, they will give your kitty IV fluids to rehydrate them and perform tests such as a physical examination and an ECG to check their heart rate. They might take a urine sample too for further evaluation. When you bring your cat home, feed them a bland diet for a few days as they recover.
Once a cat learns that the kitchen is where food is stored, it quickly becomes their favorite place to explore. I’m sure on multiple occasions you have caught your kitty in the act as they prance on the countertops looking for food scraps. Moreover, they might try to get into the food cupboards and pantry. Some smart felines have even figured out how to open cabinets and drawers! (or at least mine has)
When it comes to keeping toxic food away from pets, we have to be diligent. It can be easy to forget the dangers of human food and leave an open chocolate bar on the table.
Therefore, honoring your responsibility to your fur baby, you should store chocolate and all other toxic foods in tightly sealed (cat-proof) containers. In this way, even if your feline works out how to get the cupboard door open, they won’t be able to access things that could cause them harm.
If you’re baking with chocolate, do not leave baked goods to cool on the countertop. Even if it’s just for a short time, it’s not worth the risk. Instead, put them up somewhere high out of paws reach. And pay extra attention around the holidays too, when there’s more candy around.
We love to treat our precious kitties, but the truth is, the only treats your cat should get are those that are made for them. With so many foods proving bad for their health, it’s best to resist sharing any of your favorite foods with your fur baby.
Most cat treats on the market are very appealing and tasty for felines. If you’re feeling creative, you could even make some homemade cat treats for your lucky kitty.
Poisoning in cats can be scary, expensive, and fatal if not treated in time. However, as long as you’re cautious with your food and feed your kitty cat food only, the chances of them ingesting toxic food are slim to none. When it comes to pet care, a bit of knowledge and caution can go a long way in keeping our animals safe.
]]>A cat’s meow is the unique vocal sound that sets them apart from all other animals. While our cats will most likely meow to indicate they're hungry there are quite a few other reasons they may be feeling vocal.
If you’ve looked after or owned a few cats, you will know that some cats seem to meow much more than others. Certain breeds, such as Siamese cats, are known for being quite vocal for example.
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A cat’s meow is the unique vocal sound that sets them apart from all other animals. While our cats will most likely meow to indicate they're hungry there are quite a few other reasons they may be feeling vocal.
If you’ve looked after or owned a few cats, you will know that some cats seem to meow much more than others. Certain breeds, such as Siamese cats, are known for being quite vocal for example.
Furthermore, your kitty’s coat color can determine how loud they are likely to be, with orange tabbies known to be the chattiest.
But what do you do if your fur baby is constantly meowing? Whether it’s during the day or at night, excessive meowing can be frustrating and worrisome for any cat owner. Let's discuss a few of the possibilities behind those persistent cries.
To stop the constant meowing, you first need to figure out the reason behind it. Here are the most common reasons why your feline won’t stop meowing and the actions you can take to help.
The most straightforward reason for excessive vocalization is that your cat is not getting enough food.
This is most common in kittens as they need to eat a surprisingly large amount of food to compensate for their rapid growth.
Another reason a cat may appear extra hungry is if they have worms. Again this is common in young kittens as well as cats that are consistently outdoors.
If your fur baby meows every time you cook, eat, or even open the fridge, it’s a clear sign that they want food. If your kitty is only ever quiet after being fed, increase their portion size or add an extra feeding within reason.
If your feline is meowing at night for food, a bigger portion before bed could help as well.
Moreover, if you haven’t dewormed your kitty lately, do this as soon as possible. As a general rule of thumb, you should deworm your cat every 1-3 months. If you'd feel more comfortable having an extra hand you can always check in with their vet for a routine visit.
Cats can create a habit of meowing whenever they are bored. If your kitty is walking around the house meowing or will not leave you alone, they most likely lack stimulation.
This is incredibly common in single cat households. Without a playmate, cats get bored quickly and require a lot of playtime from their humans.
This also links to loneliness. Most cats are happier and healthier with a friend to play with, although some cats and certain breeds may not be the most compatible match.
If you suspect this is the cause of your fur baby’s constant meowing, increase their playtime, create new games, and give them new toys that you can enjoy together.
If your kitty is the lone feline of the house you may want to consider getting a furry friend that can keep them company. Introducing your cat to a new brother or sister is one of the most effective ways to provide companionship and reduce their meowing for attention.
Be mindful that some cats prefer to be the only pet in the house and will need that to be accommodated to feel safe and secure.
Some cats will meow simply to get your attention. Cats love to receive petting and affection, and if they feel you are too busy for them, they will use their meow as a way to make you notice them.
While rather harmless, this behavior can become reinforced rather quickly when you give in straight away and they might begin to associate their meows with getting what they want.
To deal with attention-seeking behaviors in cats, you should refrain from responding when they meow.
Instead, pet and play with them only when they are calm and quiet, then whenever they start to meow again, stop.
This can take some time before you see an improvement as felines do not learn as quickly as canines do. If you attempt this corrective technique, do not ignore or neglect your cat completely. Ensure you still spend quality time with them every day but only once they've behaved appropriately.
Un-neutered cats can become very vocal as they reach sexual maturity around six months of age. If you have an un-neutered female, she will start to howl when she’s in heat. Likewise, if you have an intact male, he will howl and most likely claw at doors and windows to indicate he wants to leave the house and mate.
A meow to breed is different from any other type of meow and is more of a small howl. Aside from the sound, you will know if this is the cause, as it will be most prominent every few weeks during each "heat".
This can become extremely aggravating to live with and will most likely come right around your bedtime. Getting your cat spayed or neutered at the appropriate age will help to curve that instinct and reduce their meowing tendencies.
Even though felines typically hide their pain rather well, constant meowing can be a clear cut sign that your cat is seriously hurting.
Certain illnesses can also result in increased meowing, such as an overactive thyroid or even kidney disease. Felines with hyperthyroidism particularly meow a lot in the evening and through the night.
Watch your cat’s behavior as they meow. For example, if they meow the most before, after, and while using the litter box, this could signal a UTI or other digestive issues.
If your kitty is aging and you notice an increase in vocalization at night, get their thyroid checked by their vet. Furthermore, if you have ruled out all other possible causes seek professional help.
If physical pain is not the cause, stress or anxiety could be the culprit. A cat that has experienced recent stress or trauma, such as changes in the home, might become more vocal.
In this case, the meowing is a sign of emotional stress or fear and is helping to comfort them or catch your attention.
First, understand what exactly is causing their stress and anxiety. The problem could be something as simple as the litter box being dirty, which is an easy fix. Or, it could be something in the outer environment unsettling your fur baby. An example of this might be outdoors cats or other animals getting too close to the home or the window.
There are many ways to calm a stressed cat, such as giving them quiet time in an isolated room, creating a cozy space for them to rest or hide, or using pheromone sprays to reduce anxiety and comfort them.
When your fur baby meows all the time, it can be distressing for the whole household and can leave you feeling helpless as an owner.
If you cannot work out the problem, it doesn’t mean you're a bad cat parent. Seek some help from your vet or a behaviorist. Once you find the cause, you can start to take action and settle your kitty down, creating a healthy and peaceful environment for everyone.
]]>Scratching is a natural and necessary behavior for our feline friends! Cats scratch for various reasons, but the most common is to sharpen those claws. Even though it’s essential for your kitty to scratch, unfortunately, it tends to result in damage to your furniture or carpet.
Let's start by understanding all of the reasons why our cats might be scratching.
1.The primary reason for scratching is to remove the dead or frayed outer sheaths of their nails. In turn, this sharpens their claws so that they are ready to defend themselves against predators and catch prey.
2.Cats scratch when they are in a playful mood and will scratch frantically on a carpet or sofa as a way to release their excess energy.
3.Scratching also serves as an exercise and a great way to stretch. When a kitty hangs from what they are scratching on, they strengthen their upper body and spine.
4.Scratching is one of the many ways that a cat marks its territory. There are scent glands between a cat’s toes, so when a kitty scratches on an object, they mark it by leaving their scent behind.
5.Excessive scratching can be a sign of feline anxiety. You might notice your kitty scratching more than usual after a recent change in the house, like introducing a new pet. This is a sure indication that they may be feeling unsettled and stressed. If left without care this behavior can become compulsive as a way to release the anxiety.
There are many great scratch posts on the market designed to meet your fur baby’s scratching needs. However, despite this, it’s not uncommon for kitties to ignore the scratch post altogether and opt for scratching up the sofa instead. So if that’s the case, what can you do to stop your cat from scratching the furniture? Or anything else around the house?
Since one scratching post is often not sufficient, providing multiple posts, boards, and cat trees of different shapes and sizes is much more effective.
Scratch posts should be rigid enough to resist the claws’ pull and high enough for your kitty to stretch out their body.
Horizontal scratchboards offer an alternative position for your cat to scratch and stretch in. Alternatively, these can be fixed to a wall to save space. Cat trees and towers are brilliant alternatives, as they give your fur baby multiple levels to climb, scratch, play, and rest upon.
Most cats like to scratch the traditional rope-wound posts. However, when outside, kitties scratch on trees, so providing a wood surface to scratch is an excellent option.
If you can get ahold of a softwood log, such as redwood or cedar, that could be a huge draw for your cat.
Lastly, avoid carpet covered cat furniture. Allowing them to scratch on a cat tower covered in a carpeted material but not on the living room rug can be confusing and disruptive to positive vs negative behaviors.
Ditch the carpet covered towers and opt for something more appropriate for a material they can comfortably and consistently scratch when needed.
Put the new scratching surface in a spot where your cat spends a lot of time or close to the furniture they tend to scratch.
It also helps to spread the posts and boards around the house. Aim to have one scratching surface in every room you can. When the urge to scratch comes, your kitty will look for the nearest attractive surface so you'll want to provide appropriate options for them in every space they're allowed.
Once a cat scratches on a surface, they leave a pheromone scent that will prompt them to come back to that spot to scratch again.
Therefore, encourage your kitty to use new posts and boards straight away by scenting them with catnip or hanging their favorite toys on them. The more attractive and appealing you make them, the higher the chance they'll engage with them right off the bat and mark them as "theirs".
If your cat still finds the sofa or chair more desirable than their scratching post, you can cover these objects with tin foil (just wait, there's a method to the madness), which cats hate, or a double-sided sticky tape. This should help to deter your cat from scratching and help guide them to find an alternative nearby.
To teach your feline to stop scratching where they shouldn’t, you can lightly spray your cat with water each time they attempt to scratch the inappropriate object.
Alternatively, you can clap your hands loudly at them so they associate the unpleasant sound with the behavior.
This training technique does require some patience as it may take time for your kitty to fully understand. Moreover, you should only try this method if all of the previous ways have been unsuccessful.
Regular clipping of your cat’s nails will help keep them short and reduce the urge to scratch. You can generally trim a kitty’s nails every 2-3 weeks.
Clipping a cat’s nails is a simple process and does not cause them any pain. You can have your groomer or vet take care of the clipping for you or even do it at home with the proper tools. Be sure that if you self-clip their nails that you're only clipping the transparent nail and nowhere near the pink part.
Don’t hold your cat’s paws up to the scratch post and mimic the action of scratching. Cats do not learn in this way. Doing this is more likely to frighten them than help them understand.
Do NOT declaw your cat! Declawing is a surgery that involves amputating the last bone of each front toe, along with the nail bed and claw. As you can imagine, this is extremely painful for kitties, and complications and infections can arise. Cats have claws for a reason. Even if your fur baby is an indoor-only cat, you should never consider declawing them as it is unethical and cruel.
If, despite your best efforts, your cat is still ruining your furniture with its claws, do not hesitate to seek the professional help of an animal behaviorist. They can help you get to the root of the problem and correct your cat’s destructive behavior early on.
On the other hand, if you suspect your kitty is scratching the furniture due to anxiety, try to pinpoint the cause and research ways to calm them or adjust their environmental triggers as needed. You can learn more about cat scratching here.
Remember, your responsibility as a cat owner involves working with unwanted behavior in a kind and compassionate manner. Whether they're young and learning or old and stubborn every cat deserves patience and efforts to help them engage with positive behaviors.
]]>If you’re an avid cook or baker, Christmas is the perfect time of year to try new recipes and bring back old favorites. Making tasty homemade treats for friends and family is a thoughtful and loving gift. Unfortunately, one family member you can't always share these baked goods with is the family cat. Many of the foods we eat can actually be toxic or harmful to our cats.
However, that doesn’t mean your feline should get left out of the holiday fun. Why not show your kitty your appreciation with some cat-friendly treats they can enjoy throughout the season? Here are six quick, easy, and healthy cat treats you can make at home to give to your kitty as a special Christmas snack.
]]>If you’re an avid cook or baker, Christmas is the perfect time of year to try new recipes and bring back old favorites. Making tasty homemade treats for friends and family is a thoughtful and loving gift. Unfortunately, one family member you can't always share these baked goods with is the family cat. Many of the foods we eat can actually be toxic or harmful to our cats.
However, that doesn’t mean your feline should get left out of the holiday fun. Why not show your kitty your appreciation with some cat-friendly treats they can enjoy throughout the season? Here are six quick, easy, and healthy cat treats you can make at home to give to your kitty as a special Christmas snack.
These savory snacks are incredibly straightforward to make, with very few ingredients needed. Because of the egg, they puff slightly, resulting in a gnocchi-type consistency. Store them in an airtight container for up to two weeks for your cat to enjoy.
Ingredients:
Recipe:
1.Mix all the ingredients to form a soft dough. The easiest way to do this is by using a food processor or blender. If the dough gets too sticky, add a bit more flour.
2.Dust a rolling surface with flour and roll out the dough. You want it to be roughly 1/2 inch thick.
3.Cut small circles in the dough, about the size of a coin. You can use a bottle cap to cut them out if you'd like.
4.Bake at 350° for 15-20 minutes on a tray lined with baking paper.
Source: Petsmont
Every cat loves salmon, so these are sure to be a winner! These are similar to the previous recipe but with a different twist on the taste. Again, if kept refrigerated, they should last for a bit.
Ingredients:
Recipe:
1.Pulse the canned salmon in a blender until it turns into a puree.
2.Beat the egg, then combine with the salmon and whole wheat flour.
3.Mix until a dough forms. If the mixture is too dry, add a little water. If it’s too sticky, add more flour.
4.Roll out the dough to 1/4 inch thick and cut into the shape of your choice.
5.Place on a tray lined with baking paper and bake for 20 minutes at 350°. They will be brown and softly crunchy when ready.
If you have a blender, this is one of the easiest recipes on the list. It only calls for two ingredients - dry cat food and water! It’s also an excellent option for kitties on a grain-free diet.
Ingredients:
Recipe:
1.Add the dry cat food to a blender and grind until it turns into a fine crumb/powder.
2.Transfer into a mixing bowl and gradually add the water. Keep stirring until it forms a dough.
3.Flatten out the dough as much as you can, then shape it into tiny cookies. You can even cut them into mini stars for a festive feel.
4.Bake in the oven at 350° for approximately 20- 30 minutes. Once they turn slightly crisp, they are ready.
If you’re giving your kitty some turkey for their Christmas meal, you may want to add some gravy. However, because it is high in salt, you should not share it with your furry friend.
Plus, many contain onions, which are toxic to felines. Thankfully, we’ve found a suitable alternative that you can make quickly and easily with wet cat food.
Ingredients:
Recipe:
1.Break down the cat food into a blender into a paste.
2.Add the water and blend to a liquid consistency. If you don’t have a blender, you can whisk together the ingredients. Then, heat slightly over the stove, so the mixture melts down a little. Let it cool to room temperature before serving.
These are an excellent option for cats who prefer chicken over fish. They also serve as healthy dog treats too for those living with both felines and canines. Store these snacks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Ingredients:
Recipe:
1.Whisk together the egg, cat food (or blended chicken), olive oil, and water.
2.Add the flour and cooked rice, then mix well. The consistency should be thick but spreadable.
3.Spread the mixture evenly on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Press down gently and cut into small rectangles.
4.Bake at 320° for 15 to 20 minutes.
If you really want to treat your fur baby this holiday season, why not bake them their very own little Christmas cake! This Catnip cup cake will make your kitties day! You can create either a big cake, cut into small pieces to serve, or make multiple mini cakes with tiny baking cups or a muffin tin.
Ingredients:
Recipe:
1.Beat together the eggs. Add the olive oil and cat food, then mix well to combine.
2.Fold in all the dry ingredients until thoroughly mixed.
3.Pour the mixture into a cake tin lined with baking paper or individual cake cups. It will be considerably chunkier than a sponge cake you would make for humans.
4.Bake for 20 minutes at 320°.
5.Check if it's ready by inserting a toothpick. It should come out clean. The finished cake should feel springy and look like carrot cake. For an extra festive touch, you could glaze it with some cat-safe gravy.
All these recipes are free from foods that are toxic to cats, such as milk and sugar. Just like any cat treat, you should give these homemade treats to your kitty in moderation or even run it by your vet if you're concerned. Treats should not exceed 10% of your cat’s daily food intake.
The best treats are those made with love, so use these ideas to whip up an extra special snack for your fur baby this holiday season.
]]>It’s almost Christmas, and everyone's feeling festive. You get into the spirit, put up your Christmas tree, and spend the afternoon decorating it to near perfection. Then, just as you sit down with a glass of mulled wine to admire your beautiful work, your cat enters the room. Any experienced pet owner can tell you that the odds of that tree meeting the floor within minutes are quite high. Cat's are notoriously mischievous when it comes to Christmas trees.
]]>It’s almost Christmas, and everyone's feeling festive. You get into the spirit, put up your Christmas tree, and spend the afternoon decorating it to near perfection. Then, just as you sit down with a glass of mulled wine to admire your beautiful work, your cat enters the room. Any experienced pet owner can tell you that the odds of that tree meeting the floor within minutes are quite high. Cat's are notoriously mischievous when it comes to Christmas trees.
Kitties have an intense curiosity towards anything new in their home. A big tree with flashing lights and shiny objects is guaranteed to spark their interest. Your feline is likely to see the Christmas tree as what can only be likened to one big cat toy.
However, this doesn’t mean that your days of decor are behind you. There are ways you can ensure your kitty and the tree coexist in peace for the entirety of the festive season.
We recommend choosing a faux tree over a real one, especially if your fur baby likes to chew things. The sharp pine needles on a real Christmas tree pose a real danger to cats if chewed or ingested. If your cat swallows them, they could pierce or puncture their throat or internal organs. Cat's are still capable of gnawing at an artificial tree but the likelihood of anything detaching or getting ingested is much lower.
Here are our tried and true ways to deter a cat from a Christmas tree. Depending on your cat, some methods may or may not work, so try them all until you find the most successful combo for your household.
If your cat knocks a small tree down, it will cause less havoc and mess than a larger one. Moreover, it’s a safer option as a small tree won’t hurt your kitty if it falls on them. Something larger or even as heavy as a real tree if you decide to get one can potentially injure or trap your kitty if it tips over.
You want to make it difficult for your cat to climb the tree. Therefore, place it as far away from furniture as possible so your cat cannot jump onto the tree from something like a sofa, table, or a bookshelf.
Also, consider placing your tree on a higher surface, such as a table. This may help if you have a very young kitten or even a senior with limited mobility, they won't be able to jump high enough to access the tree.
Ensure your tree has a sturdy and stable base. If not, you can add weighted objects to anchor it down. This will prevent the tree from toppling over if your cat climbs it and give more stability. You can also wire it to the wall to help keep it upright (This is an excellent option for cats who are especially aggressive towards the tree).
Hanging shiny ornaments on the bottom of the tree increases temptation and the likelihood of your cat engaging in destructive behaviors. As your cat is less likely to reach the higher parts of the tree, it’s best to place most, if not all decorations on the top two thirds.
You can also choose to hang matt objects from the tree rather than shiny, sparkly decorations that will glisten and catch your kitty’s eye. Ornaments made from felt or paper may be less appealing, though that’s not the case with all felines.
As well as wiring the tree to the wall, you can tie the decorations to the branches using hanging wire. This technique will keep them in place, reducing the number of shattered ornaments if they take the whole thing down. Use metal wire instead of string or rubber bands as your kitty can easily chew these off and potentially eat them. Be sure to cut or tuck any sharp ends of the metal to avoid injury.
Along with rubber bands, ribbons, and string, tinsel can be hazardous to cats. Eating it could cause your kitty to choke or block their intestines and, therefore, can be life-threatening. Paper garland makes for a safer alternative. Additionally, you can add light wood or felt decorations.
It’s important to note that fake snow can contain dangerous ingredients too. Moreover, remember chocolate and many houseplants, including mistletoe and poinsettias, are also toxic and can result in poisoning. For this reason, it's best to avoid these items when decorating a tree for a cat household.
Be mindful if you set up lights on your tree. Place them towards the center, so they are more difficult for your kitty to reach. Then use a cord protector to cover the visible wire from the tree to the wall socket. You can also use tape to hide and cover the cables.
Furthermore, do not leave the lights plugged in when your cat is alone in the room. Some felines will continue to try to chew the wires despite these precautions. If your kitty won’t leave them alone, it’s best to remove them than risk any chance of a shock.
There are certain smells that cats hate, such as orange or bitter apple. You can spray the tree with apple cider vinegar or place orange rinds beneath the tree to keep your kitty away. A mixture of citronella and water will also do the job, or you can even buy a cat deterrent from a pet store.
Suppose these preventative measures prove unsuccessful, and your fur baby is determined to be destructive. In that case, you can always use the classic spray bottle method.
Whenever your kitty goes towards the tree, spritz them with water. Keep this up, and fingers crossed, your feline will get the message to stay clear.
It’s no secret that most of our cats don't particularly enjoy getting wet. In fact, many of our feline friends have an intense fear of water. Therefore, bathing a cat is rarely a pleasant experience for you or your kitty. Furthermore, cats are inherently clean creatures that do an excellent job of washing themselves most of the time.
Because of this, you should generally let your fur baby clean themselves and avoid whatever havoc bath time may bring. That being said, there are some situations where it may be necessary to wash your kitty.
]]>It’s no secret that most of our cats don't particularly enjoy getting wet. In fact, many of our feline friends have an intense fear of water. Therefore, bathing a cat is rarely a pleasant experience for you or your kitty. Furthermore, cats are inherently clean creatures that do an excellent job of washing themselves most of the time.
Because of this, you should generally let your fur baby clean themselves and avoid whatever havoc bath time may bring. That being said, there are some situations where it may be necessary to wash your kitty.
Your kitty has managed to soil themselves badly.
You have a stray kitty in your care who needs cleaning.
You have a kitten with fleas. (You can usually deal with fleas using other treatments. However, these are not suitable for very young kittens. Instead, you will need to do the traditional wash and flea comb method.)
Your cat has contracted a fungal infection such as ringworm. In this case, you’ll need to use special medicated shampoo provided by your vet.
Your cat is sick or injured and has stopped grooming themselves.
Before you attempt to bathe your cat, you need to understand and be mindful of the stress it may cause them. The most important thing is not to dunk your cat into the water as this is guaranteed to cause panic and fear. Using a shower head with high pressure can have an equally devastating effect. Instead, it’s best to slowly and gently pour water over them using the cup method.
Kittens are much easier to bathe as you can hold them still. Additionally, if you start washing your cat while they are young, they will tolerate it much better when they grow up. If you have an older cat that has never had a bath, it’s likely to be much more difficult. However, patience and gentle steps can help ease any cat into their first bath time routine.
Here are our top tips on how to wash your cat for the first time and survive to tell the tale!
The best thing you can do to protect yourself is to clip your kitty’s nails. It’s not unusual for cats to try to scratch when being washed, it's a reflex from fear. Clipping their claws as short as possible will prevent many painful scratches. Clipping your cat’s nails won’t hurt them so as long as you don't clip too close. Make sure you clip where the white nail is and not the pink part closer to the skin, as this is where the blood vessels and nerves are and clipping anywhere around it can be painful.
If you're washing a large adult cat, you might want to call on an extra pair of hands. You'd never guess just how strong your feline friends can be until you attempt to bathe them!
Have everything in place before you take your cat into the bathroom. You might decide to fill your bathtub an inch or so with lukewarm water or fill a bowl or bucket instead. Keep everything you need including shampoos and cups within your reach.
Once you bring your cat into the bathroom, don’t forget to close the door. If your kitty sees a way to escape, they will not hesitate to try it.
After wetting their entire body, gently apply shampoo, creating a lather. Some medicated shampoos need to stay on for 10 minutes or so before rinsing off (which is a whole other challenge!). You can rinse off regular cat shampoos straight away after you've massaged it through their fur. Be sure to rinse the product off thoroughly to avoid causing any irritation. The furrier your kitty is, the longer it may take to rinse.
Although cats dislike water on any part of their body, they particularly hate water splashed in their face. When washing above the neck, use a damp cloth for a more non-intrusive method. Avoid pouring water into their ears (you can clean their ears very cautiously with a cotton bud instead), and like with children, ensure shampoo does not get into their eyes!
Cat’s sense our energy and use that to gauge how they should react. So, if they feel stress or fear from you, this will heighten their anxiety. Speak to your kitty in a calm and soft voice throughout the bath, letting them know they are safe.
After washing, wrap them up tightly in a towel like a burrito, with their arms and legs tucked in. Hug them close, letting the towel absorb the water, and use a separate towel to dry their head and neck. Rub as much water out as you can. Do not use a hairdryer as the heat is too strong for your kitty’s skin, not to mention the sound will scare them.
Once the process is complete, give your fur baby a treat or two! They deserve a reward. This will help your cat associate treats with baths, creating a better feeling towards them in the future. You may want to treat yourself after that ordeal too!
Follow these tips and tricks to help create a more manageable bath time experience for you and your kitty. If you need to wash your feline for whatever reason, always do so with love, care, and lots of praise.
]]>The innate dislike between cats and dogs is a well-established stereotype, but that doesn’t mean the two species cannot get along. There are countless multi-pet homes where felines and canines live in harmony and sometimes even as best friends.
If you’ve set your sights on getting a dog, it’s essential to do your research beforehand. Learning how to properly introduce a cat to a dog will allow you to better prep for their first meeting and hopefully make it a success.
]]>The innate dislike between cats and dogs is a well-established stereotype, but that doesn’t mean the two species cannot get along.
There are countless multi-pet homes where felines and canines live in harmony and sometimes even as best friends.
If you’ve set your sights on getting a dog, it’s essential to do your research beforehand. Learning how to properly introduce a cat to a dog will allow you to better prep for their first meeting and hopefully make it a success.
Cat’s are territorial and do not like to share their space with other animals. Moreover, kitties in particular do not react well to change and can get stressed or anxious rather quickly. Because of this, you should always introduce a cat to a dog slowly and gradually. Patience is key!
Here are 8 ways to create a stress-free meeting between your beloved fur baby and your cute new pup.
Before bringing your new dog home:
Once you have brought the new pup home, keep your kitty in their room while your dog gets to know its new owners and settles into their new environment. Your cat could become anxious or even act out if the introduction is too abrupt which can also make for a stressful situation for a dog that's adjusting.
With both pets in separate rooms, let them get used to each other’s scents before meeting face to face. One way to do this is to feed them on each side of a door.
For the first time, make sure their bowls are not too close to run into territorial issues over food. If they both can eat calmly in this way, you can gradually move the dishes closer to the door. You can also swap their scent by switching their blankets or comfort furniture.
Once your two pets have gotten used to each other’s smell, they can see each other for the first time. However, this first meeting should not make them feel unsafe, and there should be no possibility of physical contact or a premature encounter.
If you’ve been feeding them on opposite sides of a door, you can slightly prop open the door as they are eating. Open it just enough to see each other but not enough that they could touch or perceive each other as a threat.
Next, bring your cat into the same room as your dog, keeping your cat in a carrier and your dog on a leash. Keep your new pup a reasonable distance away from your cat so your kitty can relax and your dog and allow the initial excitement to pass. If your dog gets too excited or aggressive, end the meeting and try again later.
At this point, if your dog is behaving well and your kitty doesn’t appear too fearful, let them out of their carrier while keeping the dog on the leash and at a distance.
If your kitty is unsure about coming out, you can try to tempt them with a treat. Let them explore at their own pace while keeping your dog under your control at all times.
If your cat runs off or starts to hiss, put them back in the carrier, and allow the process to happen at a slower pace.
Dogs can become aggressive towards cats for a multitude of reasons. Moreover, they can seriously hurt them either through aggression or even just excitement and playfulness. Therefore, when introducing a cat to a dog, use treats to train your dog on good behavior, getting them to sit and stay and use positive reinforcement.
If your pup is showing good behavior and remains calm through the experience, make sure to reward that!
If the new pup is obeying you well and staying calm, you can attempt to let him off the leash. Only do this if your cat is also relaxed and feeling ready for the encounter.
Once your dog is off the leash:
While getting a new pet is exciting, make sure your cat does not feel neglected or less important than the new arrival. A new addition to the household is one of the most common causes of feline stress and anxiety since it disrupts their routine. Cat's are creatures of habit and adhere to their rituals and routines.
Because of this, give your kitty some extra cuddles, treats, and playtime to show them they are still loved.
The key to successfully introducing a cat to a dog is to take it very slowly. It’s impossible to say how long it will take for your two pets to get along. In general, dogs adjust to another pet easier than cats do. Furthermore, some cats are naturally confident and comfortable around dogs, while others may be timid and fearful.
Many factors can determine this, but if your cat is older and has not been around dogs or animals much before, it may take a bit of work to make sure everything is settled.
Generally, kittens will feel comfortable much quicker, but they cannot defend themselves against even a smaller dog showing aggression.
Therefore, if you introduce an energetic pup to a little kitten, you should be extra cautious throughout the process.
If the two are still not getting on after trying the above advice, do not hesitate to seek professional help. This is especially important if they keep fighting during introductory encounters. Animal fights can all too frequently result in injuries.
By choosing to be both a cat and dog owner, it is your responsibility to keep both pets safe. Luckily, you can often resolve pet conflicts with the help of a professional.
]]>Cats are the undefeated champions of curiosity. Always on the prowl for new and exciting spaces to scope out and inhabit. But what do you do if the one place that you need them to like, their automatic litter box, doesn’t quite cut it for your furry friend? A challenge every cat owner has faced at one point or another. Why won't my cat use their new litter box? We all love our cats to pieces, but change can be a stubborn process when you’ve got a feline who just won’t break from what they're used to. Luckily we’ve got some tips and tricks to help you out!
Big adjustments can be hard for our cats, especially when they’re a little older and wiser. For the AutoEgg, we’ve compiled some innovative and customizable ways to help your fur baby feel comfortable with their new favorite automatic litter box. Let’s break it down!
Sometimes familiar feels good! We like to recommend placing the AutoEgg in the same location as your old litter box to help build a familiar bathroom space for your cat or kitten. Building trust through their surrounding areas gives your cat a sense of safety and security while you help them adjust and feel comfortable!
As much as our cats enjoy familiar surroundings, nothing feels more foreign than a litter box without their scent! Try adding a few cups of litter from the old litter box into your new one (hear us out!). The scent of their old litter will help your cat to assume "if it smells like my bathroom, it's gotta be my bathroom! Right?” and better acclimate to their new device. Additionally, with the AutoEgg self-cleaning litter box there’s no fancy litter needed! For optimal results, we love to recommend Tidy Cats Instant Action (for better clumping) and 24/7 Performance Litter (for better odor control).
Cat treats are a fantastic way to encourage exploration and rewards for good behavior! Placing a treat or catnip near or inside the AutoEgg can help give your cat positive reinforcement while they're around the automatic litter box. Consistency is key, so we recommend trying this method a few times over to fully acclimate your cat or kitten.
Most cats love burrowing into confined spaces, a cardboard box becomes a palace for our feline friends. But not every cat is so inclined to approach unfamiliar territory, let alone assume it to be their new porcelain palace. Some of our furry friends can be a bit anxious when it comes to using an automatic litter box. So what do I do to help ease my cat’s anxiety? Try to create a more inviting space by removing the hood to the AutoEgg. Leaving an open-top gives your cat full access to survey their surroundings and feel more comfortable as they adjust. To make sure your AutoEgg is still properly balanced you can also remove the tracking pad.
Change isn't always easy for our cats (or us!). So how does one persuade the masters of attitude and ritual for such a major change? Combating stubborn ways and working to guide your cat into a new bathroom routine is a hardship most pet owners would prefer not to tackle.
Taking the time to customize the introductory experience for your cat and their new automatic litter box is an invaluable part of the process that always pays off! We hope these tips and tricks will help your cat to feel more comfortable and better acclimate to their new litter box in no time! Learn more about the ChillX AutoEgg by on our FAQ page to check out all of our specs and features.
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