Ten Tips For Flying With Fido

1. Book Early

Most airlines only allow one or two dogs on each flight, so it is important to book your dog's ticket as soon as possible. Do not buy your ticket until you call the airline and make sure there is a seat available for your dog on the flight.  Once the agent has confirmed availability, reserve both your seats on the same ticket while you are still on the phone with the agent.

2. Fly Direct

Book a non-stop direct flight whenever possible and try to fly on a weekday when airports are typically less hectic. If your pet will be traveling in the cargo hold, it is best to fly in the morning or evening during the summer and midday during the winter to avoid extremely hot or cold temperatures.

3. Visit The Veterinarian

Make an appointment with your pet's veterinarian for a check up and make sure all vaccinations are up to date.  Obtain a health certificate from your veterinarian dated within 10 days of departure. For travel outside the continental United States, additional planning and health care requirements may be necessary.  Visit your International Pet Travel or contact the foreign office of the country you are traveling to for more information. 

4. Buy A Carrier

Whether your dog is a Chihuahua or a Great Dane, there is a pet carrier to match.  Carriers are available in both hard sided and soft sided.  Soft sided carriers are more suitable for carry on and tend to fit better under the seat, but they are only permitted in the cabin only.  To make sure the carrier will fit under the seat on your flight check the size restrictions of the airline in the Airline Pet Policy Section.  If your dog will be traveling in the cargo hold purchase a hard plastic carrier with holes for ventilation instead.  Carriers must be big enough for your dog to stand, turn around and lie down comfortably.  If the carrier does not permit the dog to do this, the airline will refuse transport.

5. Can I See Some ID

After you have purchased an appropriate carrier, write your dog's name on it and include identification tags with your home address and phone number as well as the address and phone number of someone who can be reached at your destination.  Carry a current photograph of your pet as well.  If your dog gets lost during the trip, a photograph will make it much easier for airline employees or the local authorities to search effectively.  You might also want to consider a permanent form of id (such as a microchip or tattoo) that will increase the likelihood of reuniting with your dog if the dog gets lost on the trip.

6. Take A Test Drive

Animals travel under less stress when they are accustomed to their carrier before they travel.  In the weeks prior to your trip, put your dog in the carrier as often as possible for trips around town.

7. Eat, Drink, Poop, Play

Since a full stomach might be uncomfortable for your dog during travel. Try feeding your dog about four hours before the flight, if possible.  While its best to refrain from feeding your dog right before the flight, you can continue to give your dog water right up to the time of travel.  Just be sure to empty the dish before checking in so it does not spill during the flight.  if you are checking the dog, leave the dishes in the carrier so an airline employee can provide your pet with food and water in the event of an extended delay before or after your flight.  You should also exercise your dog and let your pet use the facilities (i e grass) before heading to the airport. 

8. Arrive Early

Arrive at the airport early, but not too early and have your dog's health certificate handy.  You will not be allowed to check your pet in more than four hours before the  flight.  Most airlines recommend arriving two hours before your flight when traveling with a pet.  Passengers with pets must check in at the counter, curbside and self service check in are not allowed. 

9. Do not Take A Valium

Do not give your pet tranquilizers just because you are nervous.  Dogs should not be given sedatives or tranquilizers prior to flying, because they can create respiratory and cardiovascular problems as the dog is exposed to increased altitude pressures.  They can also alter the animal's natural ability to balance and maintain equilibrium which can be dangerous when the carrier is moved. While sedation is generally no advised, the decision on whether or not to prescribe a tranquilizer for your pet should be made by your veterinarian.  If he or she decides that tranquilizers are medically necessary for the trip, indicate the name of the drug taken and the dosage on the dog's carrier.

10 You Have Arrived!

When you arrive at your destination go for a long walk before you check in at the hotel.  Your dog will feel more comfortable as soon as he or she sees and smells their surroundings and realizes that the same rules and boundaries apply here too.  By the time you check into the hotel, your dog will already feel right at home and be ready for whatever adventures are in store for that week.

Packing List

Do not forget these items when packing your dog's suitcase:

Health certificate and medical records.
Contact information for your regular veterinarian and an emergency contact at your destination.
Comb, brush and flea control products
Any special medication your dog might need.
Spare collar with id tag.
Pet wipes or grooming products.
Paper towels and stain remover.
Enough dog food and treats for the entire trip.
Plenty of bottled water ( a sudden change can upset your dog's stomach).
Food and water dishes.
Leash and poop bags.
Your dog's favorite toy and blanket. 

                                   10 Ways To Unknowingly Crush Your Cat's Spirit

1.  Not cleaning the litter box:  Leave the box filled with kitty's waste because some new litters promise freshness for multiple days, so you wait till the weekend for that dreaded chore of cleaning the litter box.   Imagine leaving your own toilet unflushed all  week long, and you will know how your cat feels.

2. Shouting: Raised voices will terrify your cat.  Feline ears are extra sensitive to loud noises, so yelling is amplified to extreme levels.  A cat who hears shouting will flatten his or her head and look for a place to hide, away from the sound and fury.

3. Punishing:  Yelling "bad cat", throwing things, motioning in anger, and scolding your cat when he or she misses the litter box or claws your sofa, tells her or him you are unhappy, even if they have no idea why.  Grabbing him or her and shoving their face in a mess will leave them petrified.  Their eyes will darken in fear, but will not alter their displeasing behavior because you are teaching them to be afraid.

4. Ignoring The Pain:  Looking away when your cat repeatedly chews at a sore spot on their belly or furiously scratches at their ears.  Cats are masters at hiding their discomfort whether an infected tooth makes eating difficult or a urinary tract infection means litter box visits are pure agony.  Monitoring your cat's well being means being a pain detective so you know what ails your cat, even if he or she cannot tell you directly.

5. Leaving the Light Off: Left alone in a silent home when darkness falls, your cat will feel abandoned.  Yes, cats can see in the dark,but why not provide a radio for murmured sounds of companionship, and a nightlight, a small beacon of brightness to remind Tabby that you will be home soon.

6. Teasing: Pulling on your cat's tail, blowing on face, ruffling the fur while they are sleeping, picking them up if they dislikes being handled, jiggling her in your arms.  such antagonizing behavior confuses and depresses your cat who wants to love you.  Why goad him /her into feeling dislike instead?

7. Skipping The Small Stuff: Never grooming your cat, allowing them to experience the discomfort of hairballs.  Not trimming their claws,  so that they snag them around the house.  Not checking their ears for mites, even when they shake their head repeatedly. Ignoring their problems chewing even if it signals gum or tooth trouble.  The little things add up and can deplete your cat's energy and health.

8. Hurting: Hitting, kicking, physically harming a cat in any way, from a "light tap" to a hard smack, is inhumane, evil morally wrong and guaranteed to instill fear in any cat.  Breaking their spirit and their heart, in the process.  Physical pain teaches cats to fear people.

9. Not Filling or Cleaning the Water Dish:  Filling a small bowl with water and letting the cat drink from it no matter how long it sits, how much dust accumulates, what spills into it, then topping off the same bowl a few days from now without washing it.  This gives your cat the opportunity to drink stagnant water, down to the last drop.  And how many times have you enjoyed a bottled water today?

10. Neglecting Your Cat:  Offering your cat no attention, no conversation, no affection, no interaction and no playtime leave your cat confused.  They crave even the  smallest gesture or word of kindness in exchange for their pure devotion to you.  

The Perfect Holiday Gifts for your pet.
Now available at Stinky's Kittens & Doggies Too
Do not know what to give we offer Gift Cards in any amount.

Why is clay litter so bad?

Did you know that clay-based cat litter contains a clumping agent called sodium bentonite?  

Did you know that it can be dangerous and potentially fatal for cats?

Sodium bentonite is acquired by clay litter manufacturers through strip mining. 
Strip mining involves the removal of trees, shrubs and wildlife from a given areas.

The top layer of soil can be extracted to access buried deposits of the profitable materials underneath.  Strip mining is incredibly disruptive to plant and animal life and pollution becomes a serious concern if the excavated material is process on site.

The good news, Consumers now have a healthier and safer option for their cats.

Be sure to offer them the goodness of all natural cat litter:  For example Swheat Scoop.
Made from wheat and natural grains, better for cats, people and the planet.

We Love Fall..

                                                   The Six Aspects of Cat Comfort

Cats are born pleasure seekers and your cat will find lots of comfortable places around your home to hang out.  You can expand your pet's comfort zone by selecting the right supplies and equipment.  Here are six ways to make your cat more comfortable.

1.  Food

Mealtimes are a highlight of your cat's day and providing them with nutritional food that they like will keep them active.  Healthy, organic and more natural cat food will make them more healthy.

Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning that they not only crave but thrive the best on meats as the protein base of their diet.  Therefore the canned, frozen or freeze dried foods would be preferable.  A high meat content dry food would be another alternative.  Stop on by and check out our large assortment..

Consider feeding your cat multiple times daily.  This is also a healthier way to feed as more smaller portions generally increase nutrient absorption.  It is also something they will look forward to.

2. Bowls

Your cat may be influenced by his or her dish as well as their dinner.  Bowls should be big enough for them to eat without squashing their whiskers.

Try to avoid plastic dishes, since plastic tends to hold and replicate bacteria.

Use separate dishes or double dinners that have a separate dish from on another. Not only do cats often prefer to drink water away from their food, but his also keeps the merging of the food with the water.

For freshness and to attract your cat to drink more refresh their water at least daily.

3. Litter

Cats are fastidious creatures and the litter that helps you keep the box clean also keeps the box attractive to our cat.  Selecting the right litter ensures that  your cat will continue to use their litter box.

A note, be sure the box is big enough for your cat to turn themselves around in or out of .

4. Bedding

Cats spend an average of 16 hours a day sleeping.  So finding an appropriate place to sleep is important for their comfort level. Since cats are very territorial animals, it is good to provide a specific place that is theirs for them to sleep.

5. Toys and Posts

Providing a variety of toys will satisfy your cat's natural need to play and keep them from boredom.  Fishing pole style toys give them a great  overall workout by promoting jumping and leaping.  Windup mechanical toys provide mental and physical stimulation and balls encourage running and chasing.

The indoor cat will benefit from a scratching post or even better a multi level cat tree.

A scratcher will provide exercise.  a multi-level tree provides both exercise and a place to hang out.

6. A Daily Routine

If your schedule allows a routine, your cat will look forward to your comings ( not your goings).  Since they are creatures of habit having a schedule regarding coming home, playtime and feeding increases their contentment quotient.  Your cat will come to know the pulse beats of your day. and anticipate your arrival home and look forward to the positive interactions the two of you share. 

Summertime Cat Teats

Add a couple of ice cubes to your cat's water bowl daily.

Some cats love the taste of yogurt.  It is good for them!!  

Adding this creamy treat to your cat's diet is cool, tasty and healthy.

Always feed high quality plain yogurt, not flavored yogurt that has little or no lactose  or added sugar.   

Cat Grass....

Even though cats are carnivores, they seem to like  bit of greenery in their daily diet.
We think that cats simply like the taste and texture of crispy crunchy green leaves and stems.

Grass eating is more often found in outdoor cats.  If you have outdoor cats, it is important to be
careful when using fertilizer, weed and pest control products on your lawn area.  This can be
very toxic to your cat.  Many indoor cats will snack on any available greenery as well.
With many common household plants that are toxic.  it is important to screen the plants
in your home.  Avoid keeping plants that are a potential risk and make you offer your cat
an alternative.

The best way to satisfy

your cat's taste for greens is to provide a pot of fresh organic cat grass.
If you want to provide a little variety for your kitty.  There are several types of grass for feeding your cats, oats, wheat, Japanese barnyard millet, bluegrass and rye.

It is so simple to provide your cat(s) with their own mini salad bar.
Cat grass is easy to grow.

We carry a wide range of different cat grass, in pots,  baskets and more. Along with refills.
Stop on by and check it out

Help Your cat Beat The Heat Part 2....

Sunburn:


White cats or cats with white ears and faces, are particularly susceptible to sunburn.  Over a period or repeated exposure to the sun can cause squamous cell carcinoma, , a cancer found most often on the tips of the ears and nose.  Early signs area sore that does not heal, or that bleeds.


White cats should be kept out of direct sun as much as possible and  if they must be in the sun, you can help them prevent sunburn by using a sunscreen on their ears and noise.  our veterinarian can recommend one which will not be harmful if ingested.


The sun is a powerful giver of life.
Still worshipped by people  all over the world.
It is not always your cat's best friend.    

Help Your Cat Beat The Heat..Part 1

You know the drill, the sun is blinding relentlessly beating down . If you do not have air condition  you seek out shady spots and sigh in relief from the slightest breeze, otherwise you  huddle inside.
Your thirsty body craves fluids, and the beverage of choice.

Consider this before you ever reach that point, your cat may also be showing signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Cats can also be affected by heat stroke. Cant's cannot always tell you that they are not feeling up to par, but they can show you .  Early symptoms of heat stroke and the accompanying  dehydration are:

Painting
Anxiety, possibly demonstrated by pacing
Increased heartbeat
Respiratory distress of hyperventilation (Breeds with flat noses may exhibit this earlier
because of compromised airways.)
Dark red bums
Lethargy
Increased Internal  body temperature.
Your cat's internal temperature should be between 100.5 ' and 101.5' F. 
Or more is a definite warning sign.

You can help your cat survive extremely hot weather by keeping him or her in a cool interior room.  Rubbing them down with a damp cloth will help, so will immersing their feet in a tub of cool water.
Wrapping a plastic bag of frozen peas in a towel and placing it in his or her bed for a cool spot to lie.  The peas will rearrange themselves to fit the contour and they will have a custom spa for cooling off.

The optimum water bowl for your cat is an automatic water dispenser. 
There are a  of them which we offer at our store location.  Drinkwell Pet fountains and stone are the best on the market.
Stop by and check some of them out.

If you cannot afford the automatic water dish.  Make sure your cat  has several bowls of cool water available.  It does not hurt to drop an ice cube in once in awhile not only to cool the water but to pique kitty's interest in drinking.

Strangely enough, cats affected by external heat may refuse to drink water.  Exacerbating the problem of dehydration, so you may want to force water by using an eyedropper or syringe,  Be careful not to shoot the water down their throat as it can enter their lings an cause choking.  Just dribble a drop or two at a time in the corner of their mouth, which will help hydrate them and draw their interest           to drinking on their own.

Summertime Cat Care

It is up to you to make sure your cat stays cool as the temperature soars during the long, hot summer.  Here are a few tips that will keep your kitty comfortable and healthy.

Keep your cat's bowl full of clean, cold water.  There is nothing more refreshing than a chilled drink of water on a hot day.  Your cat feels the same way. On a really hot or humid days toss a couple of ice cubes in the bowl to keep the water cool. Do not forget to change the water daily to prevent the growth of bacteria and algae.

Some cats love a game of ice hockey. On a smooth floor, bat an ice cube toward your cat. Swat it back to him if he or she returns your serve.  Continuing the volley until your kitty loses interest is a great way to have fun and to keep cool at the same time.

High humidity combined with heat can put your cat at risk of heat stroke.  On a humid day, keep your home cool with fans or air conditioning.  Outside, an inexpensive water miser can give your cat a little relief.

Give a little more TLC to special needs cats.  Senior cats, very young kittens and sick or debilitated animals are more sensitive to hot weather.  Keep these cats cool at all times and watch them closely for signs of heat-related illness.  

Never leave your cat alone in a car.  Quick trips to the store always take longer than you expect. Leaving the windows cracked will not keep your kitty cool at all. On a summer's day of only 85 degrees the inside car temperature will shoot up to 120 degrees (F) in a matter of minutes even with the windows slightly open.

Check your screens for tears and secure fit.  Cats like to stay cool on the window sill, especially during warm weather.  a cat leaning against a loose or improperly fastened screen, however , may fall.  use safety screens on all open windows and make sure they are installed properly.

Monitor your cat for symptoms of heatstroke.  Heatstroke is a real medial emergency.  If you suspect your pet has heatstroke you must act quickly.   Move your cat to a cool place and immediately contact your veterinarian.  Symptoms of heatstroke include:

Panting

Drooling

Red tongue and lips

Dullness

Weakness and collapsing

Convulsions

Vomiting

Remember summer is a fun season for one and all .  With just a few precautions, you can be sure you and your feline friend will beat the heat.

 

10 Ten Toxins for Cats..

 Lilies:
 Plants in the Ilium species, such as Easter, Tiger and Asiatic lilies, cause  kidney failure in cats.

 Household cleaners:
 Most general purpose cleaners ( Windex, Formula 409) are fairly safe, but concentrated
  products like toilet bowl or drain cleaners can cause chemical burns.

 Flea and tick spot on products for dogs:
 Those that are pyrethroid based ( Zodiac, K9 Advantix, Sergeant's etc.) cause tremors
 and seizures and can be deadly to cats.

Antidepressant:
 Cymbalta  and Effexor.  Cats seem strangely drawn to these medications.
 Beware  ingestion can cause severe neurological and cardiac effects.

NSAIDS:
Cats are even more sensitive than dogs to drugs like ibuprofen and naproxen.

Prescription ADD/ADHD Medications:
These amphetamines such as Adderall, Concerta, Dexedrine and Vyvanse can cause tremors, seizures, cardiac problems and death.

Over the counter cough, cold and allergy medications:
Those that contain acetaminophen (Tylenol) are particularly toxic, as they damage
 red blood cells and cause liver failure.

Plants containing insoluble calcium oxalate crystals:
Common houseplants like the peace lilly, philodendron and pothos can cause
oral/upper GI irritation, foaming at the mouth and inflammation when ingested but severe symptoms are uncommon.

Household insecticides:
Most household sprays and powders are fairly safe, but it is best  to keep
curious kitties away until the products have dried or settled.

Glow stick and glow jewelry:
These irresistible toys contain a chemical called dibutyl phthalate.
When it contacts the mouth, pain and excessive foaming  occurs, but the signs quickly resolve
when the cat eats food or drinks water

Celebrate Earth Day All Week At Stinky's Kittens & Doggies Too...

Earth Day is upon us not just for one day, but for each and every day  that we , our children, parent's and pets live on this planet.  A Planet so precious to us that we should not take it for granted.

We will be celebrating all week starting on April 21.

One of our favorite days of the Year!!

What other day encourages us to go out enjoy the outdoors.

Recycle, reuse  and remake.

We have it all at Stinky's Kittens & Doggies Too..

Earth Day At Stinky's Kittens & Doggies Too...

                                                              Earth Day Is Upon Us!!'

                                       We will be celebrating all week.  Starting April 21.
                                                        One of our favorite days of the year!

                                  What other day encourages us to go enjoy the outdoors...

                                            All made from the United States and local...

                                                      Reuse, remade good for the planet.

                                                Nature's Variety Instinct Rabbit Meal Formula
                                                                  Limited Ingredients..



                    Made with one animal protein source. Grain free and gluten free nutrition. 
                    Unique green tea extract coating for great taste and aroma.

                     Complete and balanced for all life stages and all breeds.

                     If your feline have allergies to good try this formula.

                     Great for cat with allergies.

                      Available at Stinky's Kittens & Doggies Too...

Spring Has Arrive At Stinky's

What Is The Ideal Diet For A Pet Rabbit?

The cornerstone of a rabbit's daily diet should be grass, hay and lots of it.  Hay provides the essential
fiber that rabbits and all herbivores need for proper gastrointestinal function and to promote proper dental wear.  High quality grass hay should make up at least 75% of an adult rabbit's diet and should be offered in unlimited amounts.  A lower fiber, higher energy/protein legume hay such as alfalfa is ideal for young pregnant
and lactating pets.

Approximately 20% of a rabbit's diet should come from a measured amount of a complete and uniform fortified food.  One with a proper balance of fiber, carbohydrates, protein and essential micro nutrients such
as vitamins and minerals.  Rabbit owners should choose an age appropriate formula and avoid mixes which allow animals to feed selectively, leading to unbalanced nutritional intake.

Rabbits will additionally appreciate and benefit from small amounts of healthy treats and appropriate greens. Healthy treats made with hay, herbs and freeze-dried fruits and veggies, the higher the fiber and lower the protein carbohydrate level the better.  A small to moderate amount of appropriate greens are great addition to a rabbit's diet as well.  Some good options include romaine, bib and red/green leaf lettuces.

Finally, rabbits should always have unlimited access to clean fresh water from two difference sources, such
as a tip proof bowl and a sipper bottle.

How Does A Wheat-Based Cat Litter Work?

A common misconception cat owners have of natural litter is that is is not as effective at
eliminating odors as clay litters.  Clay litters are just masking the odor while natural litters like Swheat Scoop
completely eliminate the odor.

Swheat Scoop is made from ground wheat, which contains two natural properties (a starch and an enzyme)
that make it a great option for you and your cats.  The manufacturing process exposes the starch of the
grain from the inside of the kernel which makes the product clump, and also exposes enzymes in the kernel,
which react with the enzymes in the cat waste to neutralize each other.

That is how you end up with no odor the natural way.

For anyone wishing to keep a chemical free environment at home.  Swheat Scoop is a brand you can trust to not only keep it chemical free, but odor free as well.  And you can also be assured that it will not
compromise the health of your family and other pets in the house.

10 Reasons We Love Our Pets

Instant stress reliever.   Petting a dog or cat reduces stress. 
 If you are feeling a little anxious, sit with Sophie and share some love. 
 Plus, they always know when you need a hug.

No alarm clock needed.  You do not have to worry about over sleeping.  A paw
in your face or consistent bedroom pacing will ensure you will enjoy sun rises
together.

Exercise buddy.  If you ever to near the leash they are there, tails wagging and 
excitement growing every second.

The best conversation partner.  Pet's do not talk back.Had a bad day? You
can share your troubles with your pets and they will not judge you, try to fix it or interfere/  They will just let you share while they listen.

You do not have to get dressed up.  Your pets do not require your best  clothes, 
full makeup and a trip o the hair stylist.  They love you in your ratty sweater and
that sweater with the hold in it.

Stay present.  pets do not worry about yesterday, or tomorrow, they live in the 
moment.. It is a skill us humans could all benefit from practicing.

Simple needs.  Aside from wanting to eat lots of tasty healthy food, cats and
dogs do not require expensive gadgets to keep them happy.  An empty box or
old toy will do.

Keep you entertain.  There is a reason.  The internet is populated with 
photos of cats and dogs.  They are always doing something adorable and fun.  Whether  your cat chases his or her tail while running through the house or your do stops  you in your tracks with that guilty look like it is hard to resist their charm.

Do not require Taxi Service.  They do not miss the bus and don't need  a ride
to soccer practice. Instead you two go on rides for fun.

Unconditional love.  The final reason we love our pets.  We know we can count
on them to love us without question.

Keep Your Dog Safe & Happy During The Winter

Sure most dogs have their own coat, but you would not want to go out in a blizzard in a light spring jacket.

Make sure small delicate and short haired dogs, even large ones like Greyhounds have an appropriate winter wardrobe.  

Dogs can suffer from frostbite, especially on delicate ear flaps and tail tips. 
In extreme cold it is a good idea to keep dogs inside, with the exception of the heavy coated northern breed that thrive in low temperature. if it is not possible to keep the dog indoors.

Be aware of the major signs of frostbite, which include skin that appears white or blue.. 

As little as a teaspoon of antifreeze can cause kidney failure.

Be alert to the signs that your dog has swallowed some of it, which include drooling, vomiting, seizures, excessive thirst and a drunken appearance. 

If you think your dog has ingested antifreeze, it is important to get your dog to a vet as soon as possible.  Even if you keep your antifreeze safely tucked away there i still a danger from residue on the streets. 

Most antifreeze is green ethylene glycol, but it comes in several different colors.  So watch where your dog is sniffing.

Avoid thin ice.  It might look like fun to slide across that frozen pond, but ice can easily crack and your dog and you could fall in.  

Slipping on ice can also lead to muscle strains and other injuries.

Protect Those Paws

For dogs who wear them, booties may be the best solution for winter foot protection.  For dogs who will not wear shoes, use paw wax such as Musher's Secret,

Hair on the feet of long haired dogs can from ice balls between pads and toes.  Keep them well trimmed, cutting the hair so that it is even with the surface of the foot.

City streets are coated with such de-icing substances as sodium-chloride (rock salt) and calcium, chloride, which makes sidewalks safe for pedestrians, but can damage paw pads.  
Make sure you wash them off.  

Keep a bucket next to the door to rinse the dog's feet as soon as the dog comes in from the cold.

Use warm water and make sure to reach spots between the toes and pads. 
Some dogs will also need a moisturizer for dry skin.

On those chilly and blustery winter days it is hard to get out of the house with your dogs for more than a quick poop n scoop.

There are ways to keep your pet exercised and entertained when it is just no fun to be outside.

Throw a tennis ball up to the top of the staircase of you your home, it is a great exercise for an active dog on a snow day.

If you have a small to toy dog that loves nothing more than a little lat time.
That is the perfect opportunity for you to sneak in a good brushing and nail trim.

Brush Massage For Cats

Brush Massage is stroking and caressing a cat with a brush instead of your had.  A brush allows you to make a connection without hand contact.  Use a long handled brush.  The brush offers a texture different from your hands.

The cat enjoys the brush, you are connected with the brush and you become likeable.

Please do not underestimate the Brush Massage - it generates amazing responses.

Position your brush near the cat's head and allow him or her a chance to sniff and accept the scent of a new item.  Slowly brush from the base of the whiskers back to the cheek area.  Notice the cat's response, and hopefully their interest.  Repeat the caress a few times for familiarity.  Next slowly caress around the cheek area, being careful to not rub the whiskers backwards.  Keep your motions slow and consistent and follow your cat's response your cat will guide you in what he or she likes.
Adjust to their movements and they may even rub against the brush in appreciation.

If the cat is cooperative, brush their chest fur in a downward motion and caress his or her entire chest area.  Rub up and  down or create a few circles and always remember to keep your speed slow.