5 Ways to Make Your Pet’s Life More Natural
As humans, many of us strive to make our lives more natural. We want to get back to our source. But how can you make your pet’s life more natural? We’re giving up on the idea that we must fit into society’s mould and are uncovering how it unconsciously influences us.
The same is valid for pets. Even though they don’t have minds like ours, the society around them still impacts them. Many live nothing like what they’d experience in the wild. In this post, we explore several ways to help make your pet’s life more natural. Check them out below.
Choose A Natural Litter
Most cat litter is made of clay extracted from mines in a way that damages the environment. While it is an effective substance for controlling odour, it is still imperfect. Furthermore, clay dust can enter your cat’s nostrils and lead to breathing difficulties.
Fortunately, there are a host of natural alternatives that solve this problem. You can now get litter made of entirely biodegradable compounds, such as corn pellets and walnut hulls. These litter options are typically fragrance-free and do an excellent job capturing unpleasant odours.
Use natural chews and treats.
How many pet shops sell plastic chew toys? Practically all of them. Moreover, even so-called natural chews, mainly imported from China, have made pets sick. Jerky treats, in particular, seem to be problematic. There are, however, some alternatives making their way to the market. One is freeze-dried meat sourced locally.
This option has not undergone any meaningful chemical changes. Instead, it is perfectly desiccated, removing the moisture and, therefore, the risk of food poisoning.
Choose Raw For Dogs
Raw food for dogs is becoming more popular. But why is this trend happening? It all comes down to the realisation that, in the past, dogs’ ancestors—the wolves—didn’t cook their meat. They only ate raw carcasses.
The hope is that feeding dogs raw meat will get them something their bodies can better process. Providing them with cooked products could prevent them from performing at their best.
Use Better Grooming Products
Dog and cat grooming is essential, mainly because these animals are so prone to fleas. Grooming helps keep their skin and coats comfortable, reducing itching. Unfortunately, many grooming products aren’t natural. Most contain large quantities of synthetic and potentially dangerous chemicals.
The encouraging news is that you can now buy products with ingredients with natural origins. These typically contain medicinal plants and herbs, such as neem, that offer natural antimicrobial and parasite action.
Choose Natural Supplementation
If your dog is currently taking supplements, they are probably not natural. Most manufacturers use synthetic ingredients to keep costs down. Unfortunately, these compounds don’t always healthily interact with the body. If you can, choose natural supplementation. Find manufacturers who derive vitamins and minerals from non-laboratory sources. Often, these products come bundled with other beneficial plant compounds.
FAQ: 5 Ways to Make Your Pet’s Life More Natural
What does a more natural lifestyle mean for pets?
A natural lifestyle encourages behaviours your pet would instinctively enjoy, such as exploring, sniffing, climbing, digging, foraging, and playing. It’s all about keeping both their body and mind active.
How can I make my pet’s environment more enriching?
Add puzzle feeders, climbing shelves, tunnels, scratching posts, digging boxes, chew toys, and interactive games. Rotating toys regularly also helps keep things exciting.
Why is mental stimulation important for pets?
Mental exercise helps prevent boredom, reduces unwanted behaviours, and can improve your pet’s overall wellbeing. A busy brain is just as important as physical exercise.
Can indoor pets still enjoy natural behaviours?
Absolutely! Indoor cats can climb cat trees, watch birds through a window, and hunt toy mice, while indoor dogs can enjoy scent games, puzzle toys, and training sessions that encourage their instincts.
What’s a simple way to encourage natural foraging?
Instead of serving every meal in a bowl, try puzzle feeders, treat balls, snuffle mats, or hide small treats around your home or garden for your pet to discover.
How important is outdoor time for pets?
For dogs, regular walks and time to sniff, explore, and experience new environments are essential. For cats, secure outdoor enclosures or supervised garden time can provide safe enrichment.
