Cleaning

Bird cage cleaning

As a new pet parent, you've probably discovered that birds are, well, MESSY! They'll fling seed hulls with downright abandon, busily shred the newspaper lining their cage and splash their bath or drinking water with untempered enthusiasm. Although you'll just have to get used to it, there are several things you can do to make your job as a bird housekeeper a little easier.

Daily bird care checklist

What does it take to keep your feathered friend feeling fine? A lot. To be a responsible owner, you'll need to be involved in your pet's care every day. Once you've got the routine down, you may find yourself enjoying these daily tasks. And, of course, there's no better reward than a happy, healthy bird.

Removing cat stains and odors

Having a companion animal is a lifetime commitment. And cat owners know, sometimes that involves spots and odors from urine, feces, or vomit. You will want to remove all traces of spots and odors — not only will this make your home look and smell nicer, it will also help to discourage repeat offenses.

Cleaning dog stains and odors

Having a companion animal is a lifetime commitment. And dog owners know, sometimes that involves spots and odors from urine, feces, or vomit. You will want to remove all traces of spots and odors. Not only will this make your home look and smell nicer, it will also help to discourage repeat offenses.

The importance of filters for fish

Fish tank filters regulate water quality

Water means everything to your fish. In addition to regulating pH level and temperature, you will need to ensure that it's free of waste and chemicals and rich in oxygen. If the water becomes contaminated, the tank's inhabitants can become poisoned. Proper filtration helps your fish stay in the "swim" of things.

Fish Tank Water Care Is Important for Fish Health

A fish living in an unsuitable environment--contaminated with toxins, for example, or kept at too low a temperature--is no better off than a fish out of water. In order for your pets to survive and thrive, the water in the aquarium must be in good condition--free of toxins, rich in oxygen, and maintained at the temperature and pH level appropriate for their species. With careful monitoring and regular water changes, you'll ensure a healthy home for your pet. The use of a tap water conditioner is strongly recommended when setting up a new tank, replacing water after a water change.

Setting up a home for your gerbil

Ready to set up your new pets' home? Your gerbils don't require much in the way of decoration, but you will need to ensure that their cage is roomy and sturdy, with lots of bedding material so your little guys can dig to their hearts' content. A well-made cage and accessories are the most important investments you'll make for your pets.

Rabbit hairballs

You've heard about cats and hairballs, but did you know that rabbits can get them, too? Because both species are meticulous groomers, they tend to ingest a lot of loose fur. Unlike cats, however, rabbits are not able to vomit up ingested hair. If a tangled mass of hair is allowed to form, it could cause an obstruction in the stomach or small intestine – and potentially lead to serious illness. With a few simple precautions and preventive measures, however, you and your pet can win the fight against the dreaded hairball.

Creating a home for your guinea pig

Your guinea pig needs a place to call home--and your job as a guinea pig housekeeper is to provide housing that is spacious and sturdy, and as comfortable and clean as possible. A well-made cage and accessories can add up, but they are the most important investments you'll make for your pet.

Smelly odors and hamsters, guinea pigs, rats, mice and gerbils

When it comes to your little critter's cage, controlling odor is nothing to sniff at. You may have heard terrifying tales of just how stinky companion rodents really are, but we're betting those rumors were started by disgruntled, less-than-fastidious caretakers. If you use proper bedding in your pet's cage and keep to a regular cleaning schedule, you're sure to meet with the sweet smell of success.

Guidelines to keeping your hamster clean

As a responsible pet parent, you want to do everything you can to keep your little critter happy and healthy, and looking (and smelling!) good. But when it comes to your hamster's hygiene, there's no need to break out the shampoo and head to the bathroom sink.

Creating a home for your hamster

Your hamster's cage is his home, sweet home--and it's up to you to make sure it's spacious and sturdy, and is kept as comfy and clean as possible. A well-made cage and accessories are the most important investments you'll make for your pet.

Cat litter box problems

If she's a typical domestic feline, your cat is the picture of cleanliness, and has always understood the where's, when's and how's of using a litter box. Lately, though, it seems she's been deliberately missing her target. To get out of this mess, you'll need to investigate the reasons for her soiling.

Health risks from a dirty cat litter box

Cleaning out your cat's litter box may be a dirty job, but it's important that you do it. Not only does a soiled litter box look and smell unpleasant, it can pose health risks to both the human and feline members of your household. And if you or anyone in your family is pregnant or has a suppressed immune system—or if there are young children at home —the following information is especially invaluable for keeping everyone healthy.

Selecting the right cat and kitty litter

Cat litter - what to look for

Looking for the perfect litter, but daunted by what's available at the supermarket or pet supply store? Like each of your felines, cat litters have distinct personalities. So it's important to choose a litter that suits your cat's personality, as well as your own.

Choosing the right litter box for your cat

Litter box options

Just like the cats who use them, all litter boxes are not created equal. Check out the selection at most pet supply stores, and you'll find styles ranging from simple and rectangular to complicated, and considerably more costly, drainage boxes. Not sure which one your cat would most want to call his own? The following tips will help you select a perfect match for your companion feline.

Finding the right rat cage

Congratulations on your new rat – and your new job as a rat housekeeper! Your biggest responsibility is making sure the cage you select for your pet is as spacious and sturdy, and remains as comfortable and clean, as possible. We recommended the largest, most well-made cage you can afford. After all, it is the most important investment you'll make for your animal companion.