If your pet could write their own grocery list, there’s a good chance “more raw food, please!” would be at the top. Raw diets have been getting tons of love lately and for good reason! From better nutrition to allergy‑friendly options, there are plenty of benefits packed into every bowl. And when it comes to choosing a trustworthy raw brand, Big Country Raw is a standout star.
- Made in Canada, With Love (and Great Ingredients)
Big Country Raw is a Canadian, family‑owned company based in Ontario, proudly using Canadian‑sourced ingredients in all their recipes, except their imported kangaroo protein (which would be tricky to find in the wilds of Ontario). Their commitment to local sourcing means fresher ingredients and higher quality in every bite. Plus, with a certified pet nutritionist on staff, they ensure every recipe is expertly balanced to support your pet’s health from bowl to tail. - Safety You Can Trust
Big Country Raw is HACCP certified, an internationally recognized food safety standard that ensures strict control over biological, chemical, and physical hazards. It’s the same level of oversight used in human food production, giving pet parents peace of mind. - Allergy‑Friendly Options & So Much Variety
Got an itchy dog? A picky eater? A pet with mysterious tummy troubles? With nine different proteins and a wide range of natural supplements, Big Country Raw makes it easy to tailor meals to your pet’s needs. Dogs with allergies or health concerns often thrive on raw because it’s minimally processed and rich in clean, species‑appropriate ingredients. - Nutrients That Actually Get Absorbed
The magic of raw food is how naturally digestible it is. Without heavy processing, pets can absorb nutrients more effectively leading to shinier coats, better digestion, and a whole lot more tail wagging. - Cats Need Taurine, Raw Has Plenty
Fun fact: cats can’t produce their own taurine, an essential nutrient for heart health, vision, and overall wellbeing. Big Country Raw’s cat formulas naturally contain high taurine levels, giving your feline friend exactly what they need. - Backed by a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee
Trying raw for the first time? No stress! Big Country Raw backs all food and supplements with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, making raw feeding easier and more approachable for everyone.
Raw feeding doesn’t have to be complicated—and with high-quality brands like Big Country Raw, it’s easier than ever. Better ingredients, better nutrition, and better results… your pet just might thank you with extra cuddles.
If you have any questions about a raw food diet for your pet, the knowledgeable staff at Feeds’n Needs are happy to help!
More info on raw food diets: Raw Master Class
Prevent Cabin Fever in Pets During Long Winters
Short daylight, icy sidewalks, and stormy stretches can reduce outdoor time. Enrichment keeps pets mentally engaged, reduces anxiety, and prevents boredom behaviors (chewing, vocalizing, scratching).
Dogs: Indoor Activities
- Puzzle Feeders: Slow feeding, boost problem-solving.
- Scent Games: Hide treats in boxes or towels and let them “hunt.”
- Training Bursts: 10-minute sessions to learn new cues and tricks.
- Indoor Agility: Use cones, chairs, and blanket tunnels for obstacle fun.
- Tug & Fetch: In hallways or basements and mind slippery floors.
Cats: Indoor Activities
- Vertical Spaces: Add shelves or cat trees for climbing.
- Hunt & Pounce: Wand toys, laser pointers (end with a real catch like treats).
- Foraging Feeders: Scatter kibble in snuffle mats or puzzle toys.
- Window Watching: Place bird-friendly feeders outside windows for safe viewing.
Routine & Environment
- Maintain a consistent routine: meals, play, rest.
- Use cozy beds away from drafts.
- Add background nature sounds for calming ambience.
Maritime-Friendly Tips
- After storm closures, plan micro-walks when sidewalks are cleared.
- Choose grippy booties for dogs to prevent slips.
- Keep salt off paws: wipe after outdoor exposure; use pet-safe de-icers.
Explore puzzle toys, snuffle mats, interactive feeders, booties, and pet-safe de-icers at Feeds’n Needs – your local partner for winter pet wellness.
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.
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.
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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
UV Safety for Pets
Warm weather means more time outdoors, but while we enjoy the sunshine, it’s important to remember our pets need protection from harmful UV rays too. Sun exposure can be beneficial in small doses—but without proper precautions, pets can suffer sunburns and even face long-term skin issues, including cancer. Luckily, a few simple steps can keep your furry companions safe while they soak up the sun.
Can Pets Get a Sunburn?
Yes, they can—and not just hairless breeds. Any animal can get sunburned, especially in spots where fur is sparse, such as the nose, ears, belly, and around surgical sites. Light-colored or thin-coated pets are more vulnerable.
Even indoor cats who love to nap in sunny windows aren’t fully safe—standard glass doesn’t block all UV rays, so they can still get burned.
What Does a Sunburn Look Like on a Pet?
A sunburn on pets appears much like it does on humans: red, dry, sensitive skin that may crack or peel. Your pet might flinch when touched, lick or scratch at the area, or show signs of discomfort. Severe burns can lead to blisters or even fever, so it’s important not to ignore the warning signs.
Treating a Sunburn
Minor sunburns typically heal on their own, but it’s best to consult your vet if the area is red, painful, or if your pet seems distressed. Treatment often includes cleaning the area, applying a soothing ointment, and possibly trimming fur around the burn to help it heal.
Sun Safety Tips for Pets
To keep your pet safe under the sun:
- Use vet-approved sunscreen on vulnerable areas (never use human sunscreen—it can be toxic to pets).
- Opt for sun-protective pet clothing if your pet tolerates it.
- Plan walks and playtime for early morning or evening when the sun is less intense.
- Seek shade on outings and keep pets cool and hydrated.
- Install UV-blocking window film or shades if your indoor pet loves to bask in sunbeams.
Always check with your veterinarian for recommended sunscreen products and how to apply them safely.
Skin Cancer Risks
Repeated sunburn can increase the risk of skin cancer in pets, particularly squamous cell carcinoma. Regularly check your pet’s skin for any unusual lumps, bumps, red spots, or flaky patches. Early detection makes a significant difference.
If you notice anything concerning, schedule a veterinary exam promptly. Not every change is dangerous, but it’s always better to be safe.
Hot Spots: Another Summer Skin Concern
In warmer months, pets are also more prone to hot spots—raw, inflamed patches caused by constant licking, scratching, or biting. These can be triggered by allergies, insect bites, or matted fur and often become infected quickly.
Treatment involves trimming the hair around the area, cleaning the skin, and applying medications.
Just like us, pets need sun protection. With a little planning and attention, you can help your four-legged friends enjoy the sunny days safely—whether they’re lounging by the window or running around in the yard.
Introducing a New Cat to Your Pets
Bringing a new cat into your home is exciting, but it can also come with a bit of uncertainty—especially when other pets are already part of the family. When introducing a new cat, the key to success lies in patience, planning, and understanding pet behavior.
Preparing for a Cat-to-Cat Introduction
Cats are creatures of habit and highly territorial by nature, so adding a new one into the mix can ruffle some whiskers. But don’t worry—it’s completely manageable with the right approach.
Consider Personalities First
Think about the personalities involved. A shy senior cat might not appreciate a rambunctious kitten invading their space, while a cat who has never shared a home before might be extra wary. Adjust your expectations based on how your current cat typically reacts to change or new animals.
Start With Separation
For the first few days, keep your new cat in a separate room equipped with essentials: food, water, a bed, toys, a litter box, and a scratching post. This gives them a safe space to acclimate while letting your resident cat adjust to new smells from a distance.
Build Positive Associations
Feed both cats at the same time, on either side of the closed door. This helps them associate each other’s presence with something positive—mealtime. You can also try placing interactive toys at the door to encourage play through the gap, which can foster a sense of curiosity instead of competition.
Swap Scents and Spaces
Let your cats take turns exploring each other’s rooms without direct contact. This scent-swapping helps normalize the presence of the other cat in their shared environment. Do this for several days before progressing to a visual introduction.
Gradual Visual Introduction
Use a baby gate or cracked door to let the cats see each other without physical access. Monitor their body language closely—relaxed tails and curious sniffing are good signs. Flattened ears, hissing, or growling means it’s time to slow down and give them more time apart.
Face-to-Face Meetings
When you’re ready for the cats to meet without barriers, keep it short and supervised. Some may just sniff and walk away, while others might stare each other down or try to establish dominance. If there’s hissing or swatting, calmly separate them—never try to grab an agitated cat, as you could get scratched or bitten.
Keep interactions brief and positive, using treats and toys to redirect any tension. Over time, and with consistency, most cats can learn to coexist—and in many cases, even enjoy each other’s company.
Introducing a New Cat to a Dog
Cats and dogs can absolutely become best friends—but their first meetings need to be carefully managed, especially if your dog has a strong prey drive or no experience with cats.
Start With Separate Spaces
Just like with another cat, your new feline should have a private area away from the dog. This gives the cat time to adjust to the new home while your dog becomes familiar with the new smells and sounds.
Controlled, Positive Interactions
Place a baby gate in the doorway of the cat’s room. Walk your dog past it on a leash, rewarding calm behavior with treats. Do the same for the cat—treats and praise go a long way in building a sense of trust and safety.
Supervised Face-to-Face Time
When you’re ready for direct interaction, keep your dog on a leash and let the cat approach on their own terms. If the cat hides, let it. Avoid forcing any interaction. Use treats, praise, and gentle reassurance to reward both pets for calm behavior.
Over time, your dog should learn to be gentle and your cat will likely gain confidence. Each animal is different, so go at the pace that works best for them.
Conclusion
Integrating a new pet into your household isn’t always easy, but it’s definitely rewarding. With time, patience, and plenty of positive reinforcement, your furry family members can learn to live together peacefully—and maybe even become best pals.
For more information on introducing a new cat to your home, check out our blog Preparing for Your New Kitten!
Flea Control for Your Pets
Fleas are more than just a nuisance — they can cause serious health problems for your pets and infest your home before you even know it. Whether you’re a new pet parent or a seasoned pro, understanding how to prevent, treat, and eliminate fleas is essential for keeping your furry companions happy and healthy.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how dogs and cats get get fleas, what to do if your pet has them, and how to prevent them.
Why Flea Prevention Matters
Flea infestations aren’t just uncomfortable — they can pose real health risks to your pets. Even a few fleas can multiply rapidly and cause:
Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD)
Some pets are allergic to flea saliva, and just one bite can lead to severe itching, hair loss, scabbing, and even skin infections.
Tapeworms
When pets groom themselves and accidentally ingest an infected flea, they can develop tapeworms, which can lead to weight loss and nutritional deficiencies.
Anemia
Fleas feed on your pet’s blood — and in large numbers, they can cause flea-bite anemia, a serious condition especially dangerous for puppies, kittens, or older pets.
How Do Pets Get Fleas?
Understanding how fleas make their way onto your pets is key to prevention. Here are the most common sources:
Other Animals
Playdates with other pets, dog parks, and even walks around the neighborhood can lead to flea exposure.
Your Home
Fleas can hitch a ride on humans, clothing, or visitors, then lay eggs in carpets, bedding, and upholstery.
Pet-Focused Places
Doggy daycares, grooming salons, boarding facilities, and shelters can all harbor fleas if proper prevention isn’t in place.
Outdoor Environments
Yards, parks, and trails are flea hotspots — especially during warm months when fleas thrive.
What To Do If Your Pet Has Fleas
If you suspect a flea infestation, don’t panic — but do act fast:
Call Your Vet
Your veterinarian can confirm the infestation and recommend the most effective treatment. Options may include oral medications, topical treatments, or flea collars.
Bathe Your Pet
A vet-approved flea shampoo can help kill fleas on contact. Use lukewarm water and be thorough — especially around the neck and tail. Feeds’n Needs has a variety of flea shampoos to help get rid of fleas!
Use a Flea Comb
Flea combs are specially designed to remove adult fleas and flea dirt from your pet’s fur.
Getting Rid of Fleas in Your Home
Fleas don’t stay on your pet — they infest your home, too. To break the cycle, you need a multi-step approach:
Treat Every Pet
Even if only one pet seems affected, treat all animals in the household. Talk to your local Feeds’n Needs Expert about safe options for each pet, especially if you have cats and dogs.
Vacuum Daily
Vacuum carpets, rugs, baseboards, and under furniture thoroughly and frequently. Empty your vacuum outside to prevent re-infestation.
Wash Everything
Wash pet bedding, blankets, and any soft surfaces your pet touches. Use hot water and a pet-safe detergent.
Flea Prevention Tips & Tricks
Prevention is the most powerful tool you have. Once you’re flea-free, here’s how to stay that way:
Stay Consistent With Treatments
Follow year-round flea preventatives. Options include monthly topicals, oral medications, flea collars, and more. Don’t skip doses! We have lots of flea preventative options at Feeds’n Needs for dogs and cats!
Bathe Regularly
Routine bathing can help you spot fleas early and keep your pet’s skin healthy. Use a flea-repellent shampoo if your vet recommends it.
Check for Signs
Keep an eye out for excessive scratching or flea “dirt” — tiny black specks in your pet’s fur that resemble pepper.
Be Extra Vigilant in Warm Weather
Fleas love warmth and humidity. Peak flea season is spring through fall, but year-round prevention is recommended in most regions.
Flea infestations can be overwhelming, but they’re completely manageable with the right approach. Prevention is always easier than treatment, and a consistent plan — in partnership with your vet — will go a long way in keeping your pets safe.
Whether you’re dealing with fleas now or just looking to stay one step ahead, remember: staying proactive is the best defense. Your pets will thank you — with tail wags, happy purrs, and flea-free cuddles.
Dental Care Treats
Pets adore treats, and dental treats are a fantastic way to promote oral health. They help fight bad breath, combat plaque and tartar buildup, and can even prevent periodontal disease, keeping your pet’s mouth clean and healthy.
How Do Dental Treats Work?
Dental treats work in two key ways: mechanical action and enzymatic action.
Mechanical Action: This is the physical scraping that occurs when your pet chews on the treat. The texture of the treat rubs against your pet’s teeth and gums, helping to remove plaque and tartar—similar to how brushing works for humans.
Enzymatic Action: This refers to the special ingredients in the treats that help fight plaque and tartar buildup. These ingredients work much like toothpaste or mouthwash for humans. They break down the harmful buildup in your pet’s mouth, providing an added layer of protection.
It’s important to note that while dental treats are an excellent preventive measure, they are most effective when combined with regular brushing and professional cleanings by your vet. However, for pets who aren’t keen on having their teeth brushed, dental treats are a great alternative for maintaining cleaner, healthier teeth.
Top 5 Dental Treats for Your Pet
- Greenies Dental Treats: With a chewy texture that cleans teeth and supports healthy gums, Greenies are made with natural ingredients, plus added vitamins and minerals. They’re safe and easy to digest for both dogs and cats.
- Chew A Bulls Dental Ring: This unique dental chew is designed to gently remove plaque while massaging your dog’s gums. It also includes cumin, which aids digestion and gives the chew a pleasant scent.
- Tartar Buster Dog Bones: These bones help remove tartar buildup and plaque, leaving your dog’s teeth cleaner and whiter. They also freshen your dog’s breath, making for a healthier mouth overall.
- Oven-Baked Dental Treats: These crunchy treats are made with natural, functional ingredients like spearmint, parsley, pumpkin, and green tea extract. Slowly oven-baked to preserve nutrients, they help break down plaque and tartar with every bite, keeping teeth clean and breath fresh.
- Vetgies Healthy Dog Treats: These treats not only help maintain healthy teeth and gums, but also prevent boredom and destructive behavior. They’re perfect for keeping your pet engaged while supporting their oral health.
With these top dental treats, you can help your pet enjoy a cleaner, healthier smile!
Beating The January Blues with Your Pet
Now that life has started to slow down again, we are snapped back to the reality of shorter days, cold temperatures and a lack of sunlight. January is often referred to as the most depressing month of the year, with “Blue Monday” dubbed the saddest day. Fortunately for us pet lovers, our furry companions can significantly help beat the January blues! Here is our list of things you can do with your pets to bring you some joy this winter:
Get Some Sun
It is recommended that humans get 5-30 minutes of sunlight several times per week to remain healthy. Vitamin D is also essential for the health of our pets, and a great way to ensure you’re both getting the amount you need is by getting outside for a mid-day walk each day! With the sunlight hours being so short in the winter, making it a priority to get outside and soak up some sunshine will help boost your mood.
Exercise
When you exercise, your brain releases endorphins responsible for your happiness. Evidence shows that even 10 minutes of light exercise, such as walking or stretching, can help boost energy levels, alertness and mood. Exercise isn’t just great for you; it’s also essential for your pet’s well-being! Going for a walk each day or playing a game of fetch in the yard are great ways for you and your pet to exercise and release those happy endorphins!
Nutrition
We all know that eating healthy, nutritious food is great for our physical health, but did you know that it is also essential for our mental well-being? Some vital mood-boosting nutrients that you can incorporate into your and your pet’s diet are:
Omega 3’s – Healthy fats are vital for helping our brains to function and manage our moods. A great source of omega-3 fatty acids is fish and fish oils. Incorporate this into your pet’s diet with supplements like Thrive herring oil, available at Feeds’n Needs!
Magnesium – Helps support healthy brain growth and development, including our memory and ability to learn and form new connections. Magnesium is found in leafy greens like curly kale and broccoli, and it is an excellent supplement to incorporate into your winter diet.
B Vitamins – These vitamins play an essential role in the production of chemicals that affect our mood and other brain functions. Foods such as beef, chicken and liver are rich in B vitamins. If you’re looking for a supplement incorporating B vitamins, magnesium, and more into your pet’s diet, Omega Alpha’s OptiPet Multi is the perfect supplement. It is available at your local Feeds’n Needs!
Bond With Your Pet
When we bond and connect with others, such as a loved one or pet, the happiness hormone oxytocin is released, boosting our mood. Bonding with our pets is a terrific way to deepen our connection with them and foster feelings of happiness and love. There are many ways you can bond with your pets, but here are some of our favourites:
Teach Them a New Trick – Spend time training your pet a cool new trick!
Play Games – Games like Hide ‘n Treat, where you hide your pet’s favourite treats around the house for them to seek out, provide mental stimulation and is a great opportunity for them to work for their food, nurturing their natural instincts to hunt.
Interactive Toys – These puzzle-style toys offer great mental stimulation. They can help reduce boredom-related habits like chewing and barking.
Cuddles – We saved the best for last! Nothing beats cuddling up with your furry friend on a cold winter day.
Make Homemade Treats
One fun activity we love doing with our pets on a cold, snowy day is making them DIY healthy treats! Check out our recipe for DIY Pumpkin Dog Treats.
Random Acts of Kindness
Studies have shown that performing simple acts of kindness can boost self-esteem, reduce stress, and increase happiness. This time of year can be especially difficult, so spread some happiness wherever you go, whether it be paying a stranger a compliment or helping at your local animal shelter. These gestures can significantly impact the receiver while bringing you some cheer at the same time!
Whether it’s getting outside for a walk, indulging in a snuggle session, or trying out new activities together, spending quality time with your furry friend can lift your spirits and bring a sense of warmth to the season. Embrace the joy your pet brings and use this time to bond, play, and create memories that will help chase away those January blues. Remember: a happy pet often leads to a happier you!
