When to Switch from Kitten to Cat Food

As your kitten grows, their nutritional needs change. Knowing when and how to transition to adult cat food is essential for their health and development.

Can Kittens Eat Adult Cat Food?

The answer is on the label! If the food says, “for all life stages,” it’s formulated to meet the needs of both kittens and adult cats. Otherwise, stick with kitten food until it’s time to switch.

When to Switch

• Most Cats: Around 12 months old, when they’ve reached their full adult size.
• Large Breeds (like Maine Coons): Wait until 18 months to 2 years before transitioning.

How to Transition

Switching foods abruptly can cause digestive upset. Instead, make the change gradually over 7 to 10 days:

• Day 1–2: Mix 25% adult food with 75% kitten food.
• Day 3–4: Mix 50% adult food with 50% kitten food.
• Day 5–6: Mix 75% adult food with 25% kitten food.
• Day 7 and onward: Switch completely to the new adult cat food.

A slow transition ensures your cat’s digestive system adjusts comfortably, keeping them happy and healthy during this important change.

Safety Tips for Walking Your Dog at Night

With shorter days, evening walks with your dog can quickly turn into nighttime strolls. While these outings can be peaceful, they also come with added safety concerns. To keep both you and your furry friend safe, it’s important to take a few extra precautions.

Here are 5 safety tips for walking your dog at night:

1. Increase Your Visibility

Make sure drivers and other pedestrians can see you. Wear reflective clothing and use reflective leashes or collars for your dog. Adding clip-on LED lights or a light-up collar is a great way to boost visibility. You can find these items at your local Feeds’n Needs.

2. Choose Your Route Wisely

Stick to well-lit, familiar paths and avoid dark, isolated areas or busy roads. Never let your dog off-leash in the dark—it’s harder to keep track of them and ensure their safety.

3. Stay Alert & Present

Put your phone away and skip the headphones. Staying aware of your surroundings helps you notice approaching cars, wildlife, or potential hazards before they become a problem.

4. Keep Your Dog Controlled

Use a sturdy, short leash, especially near traffic. Make sure your dog has reliable recall and up-to-date ID tags or a microchip in case they get loose.

5. Plan for the Unexpected

Let someone know your route and expected return time. Carry your phone for emergencies and consider walking with a buddy for added security.

Night walks can be enjoyable and safe with the right precautions. By following these tips, you’ll protect yourself and your pup while still enjoying your evening routine.

Planting Garlic Bulbs

Garlic is one of the easiest and most rewarding crops to grow in your garden. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, planting garlic in the fall sets you up for a flavourful harvest next summer. Here’s everything you need to know to get started.

Choosing Your Garlic Type

Before planting, decide which type of garlic suits your climate and needs:

• Softneck Garlic: Ideal for warmer regions, this variety has a flexible stem perfect for braiding and tends to store longer.
• Hardneck Garlic: Best for colder climates, it produces edible flower stalks called scapes in spring. Removing the scapes helps the plant focus on growing larger bulbs.

When to Plant Garlic

Garlic is typically planted in the fall, from mid-October until the ground freezes. This gives the cloves time to establish roots before winter sets in.

How to Plant Garlic

1. Pick the Right Spot
   Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. Garlic needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily and doesn’t like soggy conditions.
2. Prepare the Soil
   Loosen the soil and dig holes about 2–6 inches deep. Go deeper in colder climates and shallower in warmer ones.
3. Separate the Cloves
   Break apart the garlic bulb just before planting. Keep the papery skin on each clove intact, even if some flakes off.
4. Plant the Cloves
   Place each clove in the hole with the pointy end facing up and the flat root end down. Space them 4–8 inches apart.
5. Cover and Water
   Fill the holes with soil, gently tamp it down, and add a light layer of mulch. Water thoroughly to help the roots settle in.

Spring Garlic Care

• Fertilize: When green shoots appear in spring, apply a balanced fertilizer.
• Water: Keep the soil moist during dry spells.
• Weed: Remove weeds regularly to prevent competition for nutrients.

Harvesting Garlic

Garlic is ready to harvest in late spring to early summer. Here’s how to know when it’s time:

• Hardneck Garlic: Watch for curly scapes in late spring. Snip them off to encourage bulb growth. Bonus: scapes are delicious sautéed!
• All Varieties: When about half the leaves turn yellow and flop over, it’s harvest time. Use a garden fork to gently lift the bulbs from the soil.

Let the bulbs cure in a dry, shaded spot for a couple of weeks. Once dry, trim the stems or braid softneck varieties for storage.

Storing Garlic

Store garlic in a cool, dark place with good air circulation. Mesh bags, baskets, or hanging braids work well. Properly cured garlic can last 4–6 months. Use any damaged bulbs first, as they won’t store as long.

Ready to grow your own garlic? With just a little effort this fall, you’ll be rewarded with a flavorful harvest next year. Happy planting!

Keep Your Pet Safe with Custom Pet ID Tags

Pets are family and keeping them safe is a top priority. One of the easiest ways to protect them is with a custom ID tag.

At Feeds’n Needs, we offer personalized pet ID tags at all our Maritime locations.

Why ID Tags Matter

Even the best-trained pets can wander. Microchips help, but they need a scanner. An ID tag gives instant access to your contact info, making it easier for someone to help your pet get home fast.

What to Include on Your Pet’s Tag

When customizing your tag, make sure to include:

• Your pet’s name
• Your phone number (primary contact)
• Address
• Any special care instructions (e.g., “Needs medication”)

Key Considerations When Choosing a Tag

• Lightweight for comfort
• Bright colors for visibility
• A great backup to microchips

Visit Feeds’n Needs Today

As your local Animal Experts, we’re here to help every lost pet find their way home. Stop by Feeds’n Needs to get your custom tag; it’s a small step that makes a big difference.

Winterizing Your Lawn

As the days grow shorter and temperatures begin to drop, it’s time to give your lawn a little extra care before winter sets in. Winterizing your lawn helps protect it from harsh conditions and sets the stage for lush, green growth when spring arrives. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Aerate the Lawn

Aeration is one of the most beneficial things you can do for your lawn before winter. By creating small holes in the soil, aeration allows water, oxygen, and nutrients to reach the roots more effectively. This strengthens the root system and improves overall lawn health.

2. Mow the Grass Shorter

Before the snow flies, give your lawn a final trim. Mow to a height of about 2–3 inches—short enough to prevent matting under snow, but not so short that the grass becomes stressed. This helps reduce the risk of disease and keeps your lawn tidy through the colder months.

3. Fertilize with a Winterizer

Applying a winter fertilizer gives your lawn the nutrients it needs to survive the cold and thrive in the spring. Look for a blend high in nitrogen and potassium, which promotes strong root growth and helps store energy for next season. Available at your local Feeds’n Needs. A well-fed lawn now means a greener lawn later!

4. Mulch the Leaves

Instead of raking and bagging fallen leaves, mulch them directly into the lawn using your mower. This adds valuable organic matter, helps retain soil moisture, and provides insulation for the roots. It’s a simple way to recycle nutrients and improve soil health.

5. Seed Bare Spots

Fall is a great time to overseed any thin or bare patches in your lawn. The cooler temperatures and increased moisture create ideal conditions for seed germination. By spring, you’ll enjoy a thicker, more resilient lawn.

Conclusion

Winterizing your lawn doesn’t take long, but the benefits last well into the next growing season. With a little effort now, you’ll be rewarded with a vibrant, healthy lawn when the snow melts and the sun returns.

Digging Up and Storing Bulbs for Winter

As the growing season winds down and frost begins to settle in, it’s time to think about lifting and storing your tender bulbs to protect them through the winter. Proper care can ensure vibrant blooms next year!

1. Know When to Dig

Timing is everything when it comes to digging up bulbs.

• Wait for dieback: Let the foliage die back naturally after the first frost. This signals the bulb has stored enough energy for next season.
• Avoid frost damage: Digging too soon can harm the bulb, while waiting too long may expose it to freezing temperatures underground.

2. Dig Up and Clean the Bulbs

• Use the right tool: A garden fork is ideal to gently lift bulbs without damaging them.
• Lift carefully: Dig around and under the bulb to avoid cutting roots or bruising the bulb.
• Clean gently: Shake or brush off excess soil—no need to wash them.

3. Dry the Bulbs

• Air-dry: Place bulbs in a well-ventilated, dry area for about a week.
• Trim foliage: Once dry, remove any remaining leaves or stems.

4. Prepare for Storage

• Choose ventilated containers: Cardboard boxes, mesh bags, or crates work well.
• Add insulation: Layer bulbs with peat moss, sawdust, or vermiculite to prevent them from touching and to retain just enough moisture.
• Label everything: Include bulb type and color for easy spring planting.

5. Store the Bulbs

• Find the right spot: Store bulbs in a cool 7–13°C, dark, and dry location that won’t freeze.
• Ideal places: Unheated garages, basements, or root cellars are perfect.
• Monitor regularly: Check for signs of rot or mold and remove affected bulbs.

Spring & Summer Bulb Tips

Spring Bulbs (e.g., Daffodils, Crocus)

• Dormancy begins: Once foliage turns brown and papery in late spring or early summer, bulbs are dormant and ready to be lifted if needed.
• Divide every 5 years: Overcrowding leads to smaller blooms and uneven growth. Dig, divide, and replant to refresh your beds.

Summer Bulbs (e.g., Dahlias, Begonias)

• Lift after frost: Wait until frost blackens the foliage, then gently dig up the bulbs.
• Dry before storing: Allow leaves to dry naturally before trimming. Dust bulbs with fungicide to prevent rot.
• Store smart: Use paper bags or nylon stockings with dry peat moss. Keep in a frost-free, well-ventilated area between 16–18°C.

Conclusion

While many bulbs can stay in the ground for years, lifting and storing tender varieties ensures they survive harsh winters and thrive come spring. With a little care and attention, your garden will reward you with a stunning display year after year.

Fall Garden Prep

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, it’s the perfect time to give your garden a little TLC before winter sets in. Prepping your garden in the fall not only keeps things tidy but also sets the stage for a healthy, vibrant growing season next year. Here’s how to wrap up the season with care:

Clean Up and Sanitize Your Garden

A tidy garden is a healthy garden. Start by removing any spent annuals and vegetable plants that have finished producing. This helps prevent pests and diseases from lingering through the winter.

• Toss diseased plants in the trash—not the compost pile—to avoid spreading pathogens.
• Leave healthy roots from nitrogen-fixing plants like beans and peas in the soil. They’ll break down naturally and enrich your garden.
• Weed thoroughly, especially those that have gone to seed, to reduce next spring’s weed load.

Enrich Your Soil

Fall is a great time to give your soil a boost so it’s ready to support new growth come spring.

• Test your soil every few years to check pH and nutrient levels. Fall is ideal for applying amendments like lime, which need time to take effect.
• Add compost—a 2–3 inch layer will feed your soil over the winter as it breaks down.
• Mulch generously with shredded leaves, straw, or wood chips to protect the soil and retain moisture.

Care for Perennials and Bulbs

Your perennials and bulbs need a little attention before the frost hits.

• Divide and transplant overcrowded perennials to give them room to thrive.
• Water deeply before the ground freezes to help roots stay hydrated through winter.
• Plant spring-blooming bulbs like tulips and daffodils now for a colorful show next year.
• Dig up tender bulbs such as dahlias and gladiolus and store them indoors.

 Prep Your Tools and Equipment

Don’t forget to take care of your gardening gear!

• Clean and sharpen tools to keep them in good shape and ready for spring.
• Drain hoses and irrigation systems to prevent freezing and cracking.
• Store pots and containers in a dry place to avoid damage from freeze-thaw cycles.

Fall Planting and Final Harvest

There’s still time to enjoy a few more crops before winter.

• Plant garlic between September and the end of November.
• Harvest remaining produce before the first hard frost. Green tomatoes? Let them ripen on a sunny windowsill indoors.

With a little effort now, your garden will be healthier, your tools will last longer, and you’ll be one step ahead when spring rolls around. Happy fall gardening!

How to Care for Potted Mums

As summer fades and autumn rolls in, it’s time to welcome one of the season’s most iconic flowers — the chrysanthemum, or as most of us call them, mums. These vibrant blooms are a staple in fall décor, adding bursts of color to porches, patios, and gardens. Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or just starting out, caring for potted mums is simple with a few key tips.

Here’s how to keep your mums healthy, happy, and blooming beautifully all season long.

Choosing the Right Pot & Placement

Start with a container that drains well — think terra cotta, ceramic, or even the plastic nursery pot your mum came in. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.

If you’re repotting, use a high-quality potting mix from Feeds’n Needs that holds moisture but still drains well. Mums love sunlight, so place them where they’ll get at least 6 hours of direct sun daily. Want to extend their bloom time? Try a spot with partial shade to slow down bud opening.

Watering Wisely

Mums like consistent moisture, but soggy soil is a no-go. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, and always aim for the base of the plant — not the leaves — to avoid fungal issues. A regular watering schedule will help your mums stay vibrant longer.

Deadheading for More Blooms

To keep your mums looking fresh and encourage new flowers, remove faded blooms as they appear. This redirects the plant’s energy into producing more blossoms instead of seed.

Fertilizing for Fall Success

If you’re growing mums from spring, start feeding them with a balanced fertilizer like 10-10-10. As buds begin to form, switch to one with higher phosphorus and potassium (like 5-10-5) to boost blooms and root strength.

• Start feeding after the last frost in spring
• Continue until late July
• Feed every 7–14 days
• Water deeply after fertilizing to avoid root burn

If you’re treating your mums as seasonal décor and plan to compost them after fall, you can skip the fertilizer.

Winterizing Your Mums

Want your mums to come back next year? Here’s how to give them a fighting chance:

• Wait until after the first hard frost
• Add 4 inches of mulch (straw or shredded hardwood) around the base
• Leave stems intact — prune in spring, not fall
• In early spring, remove mulch and trim away dead growth

Keep in mind: mums are hardy, but poor drainage or extreme cold can reduce their chances of surviving winter.

Conclusion

Caring for potted mums is a great way to celebrate the season and add a splash of color to your outdoor space. With the right pot, proper watering, and a little TLC, your mums will thrive well into autumn — and maybe even return next year.

Looking for supplies? Visit your local Feeds’n Needs for potting mix, fertilizers, and everything you need to keep your fall garden blooming.

What to do When Your Dog Gets Skunked

It’s a scenario no pet owner wants to face: your dog comes bounding back from the yard, tail wagging… and smelling absolutely awful. Yep, they’ve been skunked.

Skunks are usually peaceful creatures, but when they feel threatened, they don’t hesitate to unleash their powerful defense mechanism — a foul-smelling spray that can linger for days. If your dog has had a run-in with one, here’s what you need to know to handle the situation calmly and effectively.

Ensure Your Dog is Okay

Skunk spray isn’t just smelly — it can cause physical discomfort and, in rare cases, health issues. Here are a few things to check right away:

• Eyes: If your dog was sprayed in the face, their eyes might be red or irritated. Flush them gently with clean water or pet-safe eye drops.
• Mouth: If the spray got into their mouth, rinse thoroughly with water to help remove the taste and odor.
• Wounds or Bites: Look for any signs of injury. If your dog was bitten, especially by a potential skunk with rabis, contact your vet immediately.
• Unusual Symptoms: Watch for signs like lethargy, pale gums, or dark-colored urine. These could indicate a rare reaction affecting red blood cells and should be checked by a vet.

Keep the Stink Outside

As tempting as it is to rush your dog indoors, resist the urge. Skunk odor can quickly spread through your home and cling to furniture, carpets, and clothing. Keep your dog outside while you assess the situation and prepare to clean them up.

How to Remove Skunk Smell from Your Dog

Feeds’n Needs carries products to help remove skunk smell, but you can also whip up a DIY solution that’s surprisingly effective. Here’s a tried-and-true homemade remedy:

Ingredients:

• 1 quart of 3% hydrogen peroxide
• ¼ cup baking soda
• 1 teaspoon liquid dish soap

Instructions:

1. Mix the ingredients in a bowl (do not store — it can build pressure).
2. Apply the mixture to your dog’s fur, avoiding the eyes and ears.
3. Let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
4. Follow up with a full bath using pet shampoo and conditioner.

Note: This mixture may lighten dark fur temporarily and can damage fabrics, so use with care.

Alternative Option: Vinegar Rinse

If you don’t have hydrogen peroxide on hand, mix equal parts white vinegar and water. Apply and rinse as above.

If DIY isn’t your thing, Feeds’n Needs carries a range of skunk odor removal products, including:

• Skouts Honor® Skunk Odor Eliminator
• Nature’s Miracle Skunk Odor Remover Spray & Shampoo
• Loona Pet Atomizer
• De-Skunk Odor Destroying Shampoo

Availability may vary by location, so check with your local store.

Special Care for the Face

When treating your dog’s face, be extra cautious. Avoid getting any cleaning solution near their eyes, ears, or nose. Use a damp cloth to gently wipe the affected areas, and rinse with water if needed. If irritation persists, contact your vet.

Prevention Tips: Keep Skunks Away

The best way to deal with skunk spray? Avoid it altogether. Here are some tips to make your yard less inviting to skunks:

• Secure food sources: Store pet food and bird seed in sealed containers.
• Block hiding spots: Close off access to decks, sheds, and wood piles.
• Use deterrents: Motion-activated lights or sprinklers can scare skunks away.
• Discourage denning: Stuff suspected holes with leaves or paper, or sprinkle kitty litter nearby.

Conclusion

Getting skunked is never fun — for you or your dog. But with a little patience, the right cleaning method, and a watchful eye for any health concerns, your pup will be back to their usual self in no time. And next time they go sniffing around the yard, hopefully they’ll think twice before getting too close to a skunk.

How to Keep Your Cat Hydrated

Staying hydrated is just as important for cats as it is for us. Water supports digestion, circulation, temperature regulation, and overall health. Unlike what many people believe, milk or cream is not a good substitute—most cats are actually lactose intolerant, and dairy can leave them with an upset stomach. That’s why fresh, clean water should always be their number one source of hydration.

If you’ve noticed your cat isn’t drinking much, don’t worry—many felines are naturally picky about water. Here are some ways to encourage them to drink more:

1. Fresh Water Daily

Cats can be finicky about their water quality. Make it a habit to change and refull their bowl daily so it’s always fresh and clean.

2. Offer Multiple Water Stations

Placing several bowls around the house ensures your cat never has to wader far to get a drink. This is especially helpful in multi-level homes.

3. Choose the Right Bowl

Some cats dislike the taste or smell that comes from plastic or metal. Glass or ceramic bowls are usually a safer bet. Wide, shallow bowls are ideal—they help keep whiskers from getting squished and allow cats to feel secure while drinking. You can find a wide variety of water bowls at your local Feeds’n Needs.

4. Try a Water Fountain

Running water naturally attracts cats (hence the fascination with faucets). A pet water fountain keeps water circulating and fresh, which can encourage reluctant drinkers. You can find pet water fountains at your local Feeds’n Needs.

5. Keep Water Away from the Litter Box

Cats instinctively avoid drinking near where they go to the bathroom—it’s a survival instinct from their wild ancestors. Place bowls in a different room to make the water source more inviting.

6. Separate Food and Water

Many cats also prefer to keep their eating and drinking spots apart. Position their water bowl in a different area than their food dish to  mimic their natural instincts.

7. Add Moisture with Wet Food

Canned or pouch food contains up to 80% water, making it an easy way to boost hydration. If your cat currently eats mostly dry kibble, introducing wet food gradually can help balance their water intake.

8. Make Water More Tempting

A splash of tuna water (from tuna in water, not oil) or a little unsalted chicken broth can make plain water more appealing. Be cautious about added salt or seasonings.

Conclusion

Cats are often subtle about their needs, but ensuring proper hydration can make a huge difference in their health and comfort. By offering fresh water, experimenting with different bowls or fountains, and even adjusting their diet, you can help your feline friend stay happy, healthy, and hydrated.