Share Your #PetPraising Pics With Purina and Win a Photo Shoot!

This post is sponsored by Nestlé Purina. I received compensation, but all opinions are my own. Catladyland only shares information we think would be of interest to our readers. 

It's National Pet Month, and Purina is doing their part by helping us celebrate what our pets do right. How many times do you say, "good kitty!" I know I must say it at least eleventy-billion times a day, along with such phrases as. "who's a good boy?," "who's the best kitty girl in the whole wide world?" We won't go into the voices that come out of my mouth while saying those phrases, but my guess is you use similar voices.

Here's the part where Purina comes in and joins you in a pink cloud of pet-praising goodness. They're inviting pet owners (just like you!) across the nation to share their special pet pics.

You:

• Take a photo of your pet with your unique pet-praising message -- similar to the one below of Phoebe.
• Share your photo on pureloveforpets.com.

#NotALie

That's all you have to do. All photos submitted between April 26 and May 24 will qualify a professional photo shoot that'll be featured on RealSimple.com. How 'bout that?

And while you're on the Pure Love for Pets site, take a peek around at all the ways Purina is celebrating National Pet Month, and check out the new products they have to offer.

Tidy Cats Direct and Amazon Prime Membership Giveaway!

We are a member of the Tidy Cats Insiders and are being compensated to help spread the word about Tidy Cats cat litter. Catladyland only shares information we think would be of interest to our readers. The opinions are our own.

What's your favorite part of life with cats? Don't say "cleaning the litter box" because you'd be a big fat liar. No one likes the "doody duty." Litter box maintenance is, however, one of the tasks that comes along with cat ownership.

Here's some scoop for you: Tidy Cats has a brand new product called Tidy Cats Direct. Curious? Of course you are. Get this -- it's a disposable, all-in-one, one-time-use litter box that you can easily order online and have shipped to your door.

It's pre-filled with Tidy Cats LightWeight 24/7 Performance clumping litter to provide constant control. TidyLock Protection locks away urine, fecal, and ammonia odors. Each disposable box contains enough litter to last up to one month for one cat with typical use. All you have to do is open, scoop, toss, and replace! easy-peasy.

I was excited to give Tidy Cats Direct a try because anything that makes litter box maintenance easier is, well, worth a try. It arrived looking like a regular cardboard box. I'm not one who's known for following directions, but I wanted to make sure I opened the box properly, so I located the instructions on the box. Super simple. All I had to do was peel, pull back, and fold under. Voila! Litter box!

Cosmo and Phoebe were curious, of course. Any time I do anything with their litter box areas, they have to be all up in my business. I suppose they consider the boxes their "property," and I suppose their right. I'd be curious if they were making changes to my toilet. Little kitty plumbers -- cute!

The cats used the box for a full month and maintenance was a breeze. They took to the new addition just fine, and I continued with my usual scooping schedule. One might think the cardboard would allow for leaking, but no way. There's an anti-leak coating on the box. Science!

Another cool feature is the little lip that runs along the box's edge. It helps keep the litter inside the box, which is key for me because my Phoebe is a champion kicker. Another feature I appreciate is the lack of dust clouds because there's no pouring. That means less sneezing for Phoebe, who's also a championship sneezer.

When the life of the litter box had come to an end, all I had to do was close the flap and toss it. For real. That easy. Since I didn't have to scrub litter boxes, here's what I had time to do:

• File my nails
• Make a smoothie (banana blueberry with some flax seeds, in case you're wondering)
• Blow raspberries on my cat's belly and try not to get my face rabbit-kicked off
• Dispense cat treats
• Take a Facebook quiz to discover my celebrity look-alike 

Really???

SO ... now comes the part where you get even more excited. Tidy Cats and Catladyland are giving one lucky winner the opportunity to win their own one-year Amazon Prime membership (or a $99 gift card if you already have a membership) and two months' worth of Tidy Cats Direct.

To qualify, enter via the Rafflecopter widget below AND comment on this blog post with what you would do with the time saved from the convenience of Tidy Cats Direct. You have to do BOTH, and there are also additional opportunities. Although Tidy Cats will only ship to U.S. addresses, readers outside the country are welcome to enter and, should they win, can donate their prize to a U.S. shelter or friend.

Good luck!

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Purina Gives $100,000 to Dogs on Deployment and Pets for Vets -- Vote Now!

This post is sponsored by Nestlé Purina. I received compensation, but all opinions are my own. Catladyland only shares information we think would be of interest to our readers. 

I've partnered with Purina for several years, and I'm constantly impressed with the work they do for the community. It's a responsibility they take seriously and I'm proud to be a part of it. This time around, Purina Pure Love for Pets is donating $100,000 to Dogs on Deployment and Pets for Vets, two organizations whose mission benefits both pets and members of our military. 

Dogs on Deployment helps alleviate some of the stress pet owners feel when they find they'll be deployed for military service. Not everyone is lucky enough to have friends and family on hand to provide the care needed for our precious family members while we're away. Let's face it: it's a giant responsibility and we wouldn't want to leave our pets with just anyone. DoD understands that and offers help with people and resources to those headed for deployment. Please note: DoD doesn't only assist with dogs -- they also support families with cats. 

Pets for Vets supports military vets and provides a second chance for shelter pets. Win-win, right? They do this by rescuing and training rescues and then pairing them with vets who could use the help of a companion animal. I love the thought of people and animals helping one another. I feel like my cats and I give each other equal amounts of love and support -- it's an even exchange. It's especially touching when people and pets are matched in a way that's incredibly life-changing on both parts.

There's no denying that Dogs on Deployment and Pets for Vets are doing great work, and that's why Purina wants to help both of them -- and you can help! Hop over to the PureLoveForPets.com and vote for one of the organizations. You need to do this by November 15 at 11:59 PM ET. The one with the most votes will receive $75,000, and the runner up gets $25,000. 

I know we don't all have the resources to significantly help organizations whose mission we support, but this is a way we can feel a part of the giving. Thank you!

Inspiration for Building a Better World at Purina Better With Pets Summit

This post, and the Purina Better With Pets Summit, are sponsored by Nestlé Purina. I received compensation, but all opinions are my own. Catladyland only shares information we think would be of interest to our readers. 

If you're reading this, chances are you already know that life is much better with pets. And if you don't agree, why are you reading a blog called Catladyland? Just kidding. Hey -- I don't know about you, but my days would be exponentially more boring and less satisfying if I didn't share my life with my two cats, Cosmo and Phoebe. Pets are part of our families, and I love that Purina is onboard with that belief.

Legit!

I recently had the pleasure of attending Purina's Better With Pets Summit in New York. It wasn't my first Summit, and I always look forward to the fun and educational offerings they present at this event each year. What I loved about this year's Summit was the personal connection they created between the audience and the people on the stage. There were speakers prior to the panels who told their real stories about how animals have affected their lives. I most enjoyed Roben Harris, who spoke of the therapeutic friendship between her daughter, born with Spina Bifida, and her best friend, a Labradoodle named Chocolate Chip Chewbacca Harris (LOVE the name!).

Anastasia Thrift, Janine Kahn, and I are all better with pets.

The panels included "Demystifying Quality and Safety," "How a Passion for Pets Builds a Better World," and "The Science of Innovative Nutrition for Pets." Guess what else happened? There was both a kitten and puppy therapy booth! I'm not gonna lie -- I spent a fair amount of time in the kitten booth holding a sweetheart of a kitty named Sparkles. The cats and dogs were all adoptable through North Shore Animal League.

I'm holding one very happy Sparkles kitty. Hopefully she has a good home now!

The presence of Urban Resource Institute (URI), one of the largest domestic violence shelters in New York, was my favorite part of the event. One of their programs is called URIPALS, which was launched in 2013 in their Brooklyn shelter, Safe Haven. They created the program after seeing a need for keeping human families and their pets together when entering a domestic violence shelter. It's the only program of its kind in New York City, and one of the only ones in the United States.

Of pet owners who called URI's emergency hotline, 30% indicated their pet had been threatened by their abuser. Studies show that 48% of individuals being abused won't leave the situation because they don't want to leave their pet behind. Completely understandable and a choice many of us would make as well.

Nathaniel Field discusses the importance of co-sheltering people and pets.

Nathaniel Field, President and CEO of URI was on the "How a Passion for Pets Build a Better World" panel. I was inspired by his passion, and it's clear to me that more programs such as this need to exist. Kudos to Nathaniel and all the folks at URI for keeping families together during times of crisis. And additional kudos to Purina for partnering with the program to open Purina Pet Haven, New York City's first-ever dog park in a domestic violence shelter.

Toward the end of the day, Summit attendees had the opportunity to assemble gifts for families entering a URI shelter. We packed welcome gifts that included bowls, a collar, food, a t-shirt, and a blanket. Each team included personal notes to pack into the boxes. It was a meaningful way to feel like we were making a difference in the lives of people and pets in need. I've blogged for Purina for a few years now, and one thing I can say for certain is that they care about community and do so much to help animals and foster the bond between people and pets.

The contents of the welcome boxes we assembled. Cool, right?

Thanks, Purina! It was another year of learning, meeting new people, seeing old friends, and feeling inspired.

You can join in, share, and learn by using the hashtag #LetsLiveBig, and remember to follow Purina on social media.

Facebook

Twitter

Instagram

And now on Snapchat -- @purinapetcare

20 Years of Transforming Lives #MetOnPetfinder

This post is sponsored by Petfinder, but Catladyland only shares information we think would be of interest to our readers. The opinions are our own.

Pet adoption transforms lives, and Petfinder's celebrating their 20th year being a huge player in that transformation. In fact, more than 20 million pets and parents can claim they met their destiny on Petfinder.com -- that's an average of 1.2 million per year! Amazing, right?

Source: Petfinder.com

Saffy (R.I.P) was adopted from a shelter, and Phoebe and Cosmo came to us unexpectedly by way of friends a year or more after Saffy's adoption. When we first considered adding a kitty to our family, we immediately knew to go to our local shelter. It's really true what they say about you and your pet "choosing one another." It's not at all like grocery shopping -- there's an intuitive, emotional component. You know and the pet knows when it's meant to be, and that's exactly how it happened with Saffy.

When I saw her for the first time, my heart skipped a beat. Then she looked at me with those bright green eyes and it was like we recognized one another: Finally, here you are -- I've been waiting. You can't adequately explain it unless you've experienced it. Saffy went on to teach our family about patience, caring for a senior kitty, and the gentle nuances of grieving the loss of a beloved pet when she passed away just this summer at age 15.

Saffy, Phoebe, and Cosmo (L-R).

For the last two decades, Petfinder has been committed to facilitating these powerful connection experiences. To celebrate its anniversary, they're asking pet parents, pet lovers, and pet advocates to join the celebration and their effort to donate $200,000 benefitting 20 shelters and rescue members.

It's not hard at all! All Perfinder wants is to generate one million views of its #MetOnPefinder video by October 24. And the video is one you'll want to see because it shows how pets have transformed the lives of their adopters. When the one million views are met, 20 shelters will each receive a $10,000 grant from the Petfinder Foundation to help continue their good work.

My kids and I lovin' on Miss Saffy.

Please watch the video, but Petfinder also encourages families, advocates, and partners to share their Petfinder adoption stories on social media using the hashtag #MetOnPetfinder.

Speaking of the video, you don't have to go far to watch it ... here it is! Thank you for your part in helping transform the lives of pets and the families who adopt them.

Be sure to follow Petfinder on:

Facebook

Twitter

Instagram

Stop Stank Face With Tidy Cats Litter: It's a Giveaway!

Stank Face (stãNGk fãs) n: The universal expression of disgust often caused by litter box odor. Stank Face indiscriminately strikes cat lovers, friends and family alike, typically in the comfort of their own home. Symptoms include watery eyes, feeling like you've lost control of your face, crinkled nose, curled lip, contorted mouth and, in extreme cases, involuntary gagging.

***

Friends, today we're featuring an affliction well known in the cat-lover community. I know it can be difficult to discuss such a putrid subject, but we must move past the stigma and embrace an antidote. That's right -- I'm referring to what's commonly known as Stank Face. 

I share my small apartment with two cats, so I have an up-close-and-personal relationship with Stank Face. Although I scoop the boxes daily, there have been times when my guests have been stricken with S.F., and I could do nothing but apologize.

One day some maintenance workers were in my home doing something with HVAC (like how I throw those fancy acronyms like I know what I'm talking about?), and Phoebe decided to drop a "number two" in one of the boxes. It was only a matter of time before the malodorous cloud drifted right to the utility closet and into the nostrils of the unsuspecting visitors. I tried to rush to the scene and tell them I was sorry for the stench, but I was too late -- Stank Face had already set in. They quickly finished and exited my apartment. I hope my HVAC maintenance didn't suffer because of Stank Face.

I wish I'd known about Tidy Cats TidyLock™ Protection before the HVAC debacle. This new feature is now available in the Light Weight and traditional versions of their 24/7 and Instant Action clumping litters. The added protection better absorbs liquids and features an improved deodorizing system that neutralizes odors and stops litter box stank. Let me tell you ... it works! No more Stank Face for me or my visitors. 

Even if you don't trust me (which you totally should), listen to cat-lover Angela Kinsey, who has stepped forward to create public awareness and shed light on the Stop Stank Face campaign and the cure: TidyLock™ Protection. You probably know Angela best from her role as Angela Martin on NBC's The Office. Yeah, she's funny, but even she knows Stank Face is no laughing matter. Watch this:

Are you ready to join Angela and me in abolishing Stank Face once and for all? Well, one lucky Catladyland reader will win FIVE (5) manufacturer's coupons to stop the stank in their own homes.

U.S. winners only. International readers are welcome to enter and donate their prize to a U.S. friend or shelter.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

We are a member of the Tidy Cats Insiders and are being compensated to help spread the word about Tidy Cats TidyLock™ Protection. Catladyland only shares information we think would be of interest to our readers. The opinions are our own.

Win a Cat Sample Pack Loaded With Purina's Summer Blockbusters #PurinaPartner

Ready for a blockbuster lineup? PureLoveForPets.com has got you covered with Purina's Summer Blockbusters that'll make your cat (or dog) feel like a superstar! Some of the cool new products include Friskies® Pull 'n Play Cat Treats Play Pack, Dentalife Daily Oral Care Dog Treats, and Muse® Masterpieces.

You could win a cat prize pack right here on Catladyland, and you can participate in an instant win game for chance to win a dog or cat sample box loaded with all-star products! Why not do both? Go on ... you know you wanna. 

The Cat Sample Box (appx. $20 value) includes these awesome goodies:

• Fancy Feast® Medleys White Meat Chicken Primavera  Pate
• Fancy Feast® Purely Wild Alaskan Salmon & White Meat Chicken
• Purina ONE® Tender Selects Blend with Real Chicken
• Friskies® Play 'n Pull Cat Treats Play Pack
• Muse® by Purina® MasterPieces Natural Chicken Recipe accented with Carrots & Spinach + essential nutrients
• Friskies® Cat Concoctions (TM) With Lamb in Clam Flavored Sauce
• Coupon for Purina Product

Also check yesterday's (7/31) Sunday paper for some excellent Purina coupons!

Cosmo's ready to win.

So, click over to PureLoveForPets.com and play the Purina Summer Blockbuster Instant Win Game AND enter below to win a cat sample pack full of goodies!

• Giveaway runs now through 11:59 PM CDT, August 17, 2016.
• U.S. only. International winners can enter and donate their prize to a U.S. shelter or friend.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

I was compensated to help spread the word about Purina's Summer Blockbusters. Catladyland only shares information we think would be of interest to our readers. The opinions are our own.

Purina Family Pet Center at St. Louis Children's Hospital #PurinaPartner

If you're reading this, I'm assuming you know about the healing power of pets. We've all felt it when we've been physically ill, sad, or even suffered from anxiety or depression. I've spent most of my adult life wrestling with anxiety and my cats have been there for me every step of the way. Their warm presence and healing purrs should be certified by the FDA. In fact, studies show spending time with a pet reduces pain, anxiety, depression, and fatigue for people with a wide range of health issues, and even those living in long-term care facilities. Makes sense, right? 

Photo courtesy of Purina.

Purina knows pets, and I know -- based on the amount of time I've spent at Purina events -- they care deeply about the human-animal bond. I wasn't at all surprised to learn they'd partnered with St. Louis Children's Hospital to create the Purina Family Pet Center. What began as a request from a patient, turned into a significant piece of healing and joy for the children staying at the hospital. Purina enthusiastically donated $450,000 toward the construction and staffing of the 300-square-foot center, which makes it possible for a child's pet to visit them, something unheard of in most hospitals. In fact, this is the first center of its kind in the region, and the fourth in the world!

Nina Leigh Krueger, Purina president. Photo courtesy of Purina.

"At Purina, we believe that people and pets are better together, and our friends at St. Louis Children's Hospital clearly share our belief, said Nina Leigh Krueger, Purina president. Our goal for the Purina Family Pet Center is to bring joy and comfort to children and their families by helping them reunite with their pets during their stay."

I hope other hospitals and long-term care facilities follow Purina's lead and create similar centers to bring patients and pets together. Modern medicine can work wonders, and the ability to connect with a beloved family pet brings immeasurable comfort to families on the healing journey.


I was compensated to help spread the word about The partnership between St. Louis Children's Hospital and the Purina Family Pet Center.  Catladyland only shares information we think would be of interest to our readers. The opinions are our own.

Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets: Pet Obesity Prevention Awareness and Prevention ... and Giveaway! #PurinaPartner

We all want our pets to be happy, healthy, and live long lives as our beloved companions. When they become overweight or obese, their chances of living this kind of life are diminished. According to the Pet Obesity Prevention Association, more than half the dogs and cats in the United States are considered overweight or obese. I don't know about you, but I was blown away by that number. My Saffy has struggled with her weight on and off throughout her 15 years. With the help of her vet and a change in diet and exercise habits, she finally leveled off at a healthy size. And we discovered she likes to walk outside on a leash and harness! In fact, she now believes she's the wild huntress of the neighborhood, and all chipmunks cower in fear of her majestic ways. We let her go ahead and believe that. It's a small thing.

The huntress burns off calories AND intimidates chipmunks!

Purina® Pro Plan® Veterinary Diets OM Overweight Management formulas help pet owners properly assess their pet's weight and offers healthy living tips so we can enjoy a long, happy life with our fuzzy pals. Here are three easy steps to determine if your pet's weight is healthy.

Same goes for cats! Click for larger image.

Should you discover your pet has a little extra -- um -- fluff, it's good to know it's easily managed with a low calorie, low fat diet and the right amount of healthy habits. Purina® Pro Plan® Veterinary Diets OM Overweight Management formulas are low in calories and fat, high in protein, provide natural fiber, and promote urinary health.

The proper amount of food, reduced treats, combined with regular exercise is the best way to keep your pets lean and mean (in a good way, that is). Even if your cat is lazy by nature, find that special something that gives him a spring in his step and go for it!

Sometimes homemade toys get the most action.

Is your kitty in need a little help getting on the road to a healthy weight? Well, this is your chance to try Purina® Pro Plan® Veterinary Diets OM Overweight Management formulas ... free! That's right, friends -- it's a giveaway. Here are the details:

Two (2) winners will each receive one (1) coupon for up to $60 worth of free Purina® Pro Plan® Veterinary Diet canned or dry food (must be redeemed at authorized veterinary clinics).

The coupons can only be redeemed in the U.S.; however, anyone can enter and donate the coupon to a U.S. shelter or friend.

To qualify, enter via the Rafflecopter widget below. You can score additional entries, too!

Best of luck! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

I was compensated to help spread the word about Purina® Pro Plan® Veterinary Diets OM Overweight Management formula. Catladyland only shares information we think would be of interest to our readers. The opinions are our own.

It's a Tidy Cats Littervention Makeover and Giveaway!

Can the litter box area really be a nice place? I mean it's a practical place -- cats visit to do their "business," and then they leave, hopefully without tracking too much litter along the way. When Tidy Cats® asked if Cosmo would like a Littervention in his bathroom space, I thought, "Why not?" We humans like our bathrooms to look pleasant and offer functionality, so why not give the same opportunity to our kitties? We accepted the Littervention! Spring cleaning is the perfect time for such a thing, after all. 

I live in a small loft, and Cosmo's litter box is located in my bedroom. It's a plain little corner of my room ... nothing fancy. I suppose it should be fancier -- he is a tuxedo cat.

Tidy Cats® needed some information so they could send me products that would fit with my decor, space, and needs. I'm glad they asked about my biggest peeve, which is the whole litter-tracking situation. The little mat Cosmo was using wasn't doing its job. Sometimes when I stepped out of my bed, it felt like I'd set foot on a beach. If only, right?

When the box arrived from Tidy Cats®, I was blown away! So many cool objects tucked inside, including toys, scratchers, and all sorts of fun and interesting goodies. I couldn't wait to go to town transforming the area!

They sent us a jug of Tidy Cats® LightWeight 4-in-1 Strength Litter and a new litter box with a pretty wicker basket in which to place it. And let me tell you about the mat! It's covered with deep holes that catch that litter. I know it catches it because I see it sitting inside those soft little craters and not so much on my bedroom floor.

And the Litter Genie. Can I just talk about the Litter Genie for a moment? If you've never used one, you're missing out. No longer do I need to make the daily walk down the hall with my bag o' clumps. Sure, I'll miss the regular chats with the neighbors while holding said bag o' clumps, but the tradeoff is well worth it, my friends.

I personalized Cosmo's corner by hanging an extraordinarily handsome photo of him above his box ... because why not?

The Litter Genie arrived with a handy scoop that's stored on the side of the in-"Genie-us" (pushing it?) contraption. And they sent adorable rubber gloves with cleaning supplies! The cute gloves make me want to clean (probably).

Speaking of cleaning, did you know that some toys can go in the top rack of your dishwasher? Many dishwashers even have handy little baskets to hold small objects. And once they're clean, store them in little baskets or boxes. Soon they'll be scattered again, but they will at least have a home!

Of course Cosmo didn't do a thing to help me with his own Littervention. As usual, he sat on the sidelines and supervised. That's his specialty, you know.

Here's how it looks integrated into my bedroom. Pretty cool, huh? The makeover gives his litter box corner a more fun and attractive look -- plus, the Litter Genie! Cosmo and I are both pleased with the outcome.

Would you like to win your very own Littervention from Tidy Cats®? Well, it's your lucky day, friends! Here's how it all goes down:

One (1) lucky reader will receive a prize package that includes a litter box, toys, litter, a scratching post, toys, and more! The package can only be shipped to U.S. addresses; however, anyone can enter and donate the kit to a U.S. shelter.

To qualify you must complete the mandatory areas in the Rafflecopter widget below (there are opportunities for additional entries!) and comment on this blog post with your biggest litter box peeve. 

Best of luck! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

We are a member of the Tidy Cats Insiders and are being compensated to help spread the word about our Littervention experience offer a Littervention giveaway to a reader. Catladyland only shares information we think would be of interest to our readers. The opinions are our own.

Tidy Cats 4-in-1 Strength Lightweight Litter Says "Buh-Bye" to Biggest Litter Box Offenders

Cat litter is a necessity if you're going to share your home with felines, right? Right. And I like to keep things light, so that means no heavy litter or heavy odor. This is especially important to me now that I live in a small apartment. I'm a good little scooper, for sure, but odors can sometimes overtake the most vigilant of scoopers. The power of a cat's, um, output has magical abilities of intense odor release. It's like Harry Potter's cloak of invisibility --- Hairy Pooper's cloak of stinkability.

Tidy Cats 4-in-1 Strength LightWeight litter has now made the scene and tackles that stinky cloak once and for all! One of my cats' litter boxes is in my bedroom, which might make some a little nervous about unpleasant odors waking them up in the middle or the or giving them nightmares. I can tell you from experience that I haven't had any nightmares about giant litter-box clumps chasing me through the house. I'm pretty sensitive, too. Once someone in my house burned popcorn and I couldn't fall asleep because of the distracting stench. Burned popcorn cloak.

Cosmo wants to know if dinners come in 4-in-1, too.

Tidy Cats 4-in-1 LightWeight has four times the power of tackling the biggest litter box offenders: urine, feces, and ammonia odors, and helps create the tightest of tight clumps. This makes for a happy litter-box scooper!

I'll admit it: I'm a wimp when it comes to carrying heavy jugs of litter. Sometimes they even sit in my car's trunk until I'm ready to use them because I continue to put off hauling them inside the house. The LightWeight jugs are 50% lighter than the leading litter, making it a piece of cake to lift the jugs from the shopping cart, place them in the trunk, and then bring them indoors. In fact, I can carry one in each hand! If someone didn't know the litter was light, they'd think I had some major guns.

So try it for yourself and see what you think! Tidy Cats 4-in-1 Strength LightWeight litter was available in stores in February. You may as well grab two jugs while you're there -- I think you can handle it.

To keep up with all the latest Tidy Cats news and fun, follow them on Facebook and Twitter.


We are a member of the Tidy Cats Insiders and are being compensated to help spread the word about innovations and updates about Tidy Cats. Catladyland only shares information we think would be of interest to our readers. The opinions are our own.

Take the Purina Pet Pledge, and Win Awesome Prizes For Your Pet!

The New Year is underway, and many of us kicked off 2016 with fabulous resolutions about losing weight, saving money, and finally organizing that everything-falls-out-when-you-open-it closet. Tell the truth -- you have one of those, too. 

This year, our friends at Purina want us to keep our four-legged family members in mind when we make these New Year's intentions, so they're encouraging pet parents to to make a Pet Pledge. There are no rules for the pledge. Maybe you want to spend more cuddle time with your kitty, or deck your home out with a super-cool cat tree. Whatever the case, pledge away! 

"I pledge that you feed me extra meals."

I find I'm more accountable to resolutions when I write them down somewhere or share them with others. You can do that on Purina's Pure Love for Pets site. It's easy-peasy. 

Here's mine: I recently moved into a new place and the windows are pretty high -- too high for my kitties to enjoy the good ol' "Cat TV" like they had at my old house. My pledge is to find a cat tree with a season pass to "Cat TV." My kitties fully support this pledge. And they also asked me to add a P.S. pledge about providing extra meals. Um, no.

After you've made your Pet Pledge, don't go anywhere because you can play an instant win game for a chance to score some pretty awesome prizes. 

• Cat Prize Box: Cat Furminator, Kitty Hammock, toys, and other cat-related accessories
• Cat Grand Prize: Deluxe Cat Tower (whaaaaat?!)

There are also dog prizes, for those with special canines in their lives. Woof. The instant win game runs now through February 17, 2016.  

In addition to the Pet Pledge and instant win game, PureLoveForPets.com features suggestions for Pet Pledges, along with tips on how to keep them throughout the year. Unless you're one of those people who naturally keeps your resolutions all year long. In which case, you're probably telling big lies. Kidding. Maybe.

Oh, and be sure to look for Purina coupons in local Sunday papers. Who doesn't enjoy a good coupon?  

There are so many ways for you and your pet to win with Purina Pet Pledge -- I've lost count! So get out there and make this year the best one ever for you and your beloved pets!

I was compensated to help spread the word about the Purina Pet Pledge. Catladyland only shares information we think would be of interest to our readers. The opinions are our own.

Tidy Cats Litter Selector ... and Giveaway! #TidyInsider

I'll just come right out and say it: the cat litter aisle can be overwhelming. Agree? I thought you might. Friends, let me assure you there's no reason to stress over what goes in your kitty's box. Tidy Cats knows not every type of litter fits every type of cat or human. 

My cats care what's in ALL their boxes. 

Some enjoy scented litter, while others prefer straight-up options. Instant action or long-term odor control? What do you think? How about the weight of the litter? Do you want to build muscle or are you a lightweight? OK, raise your hand if you love a nice clump! Me, me, me!

Maybe you didn't even know there were so many choices. Perhaps your thinking becomes scattered when considering the selections, so you close your eyes and grab something off the shelf. Some have become accustomed to purchasing the same brand each time the litter runs low. Whatever the case, the Tidy Cats Litter Selector will match you to your ideal type of litter. It's like online dating, but with cat litter.

It's not hard -- promise! Just honestly answer a few simple questions about your home, lifestyle, and general preferences, and let Tidy do the work! I tried the Litter Selector and found my perfect match: Tidy Cats Instant Action. We're meeting at the litter boxes for our date next week. I can hardly wait.

Tidy Cats and Catladyland is giving three (3) lucky readers the opportunity to win five (5) jugs or bags of litter (or one full jug or bag and four full-value coupons)! Isn't that exciting? Here's how you qualify:

• Click here to try the Tidy Cats Litter Selector.
• Leave a comment on this post with the type of litter Tidy selected for you.
• Enter your name and email address in the Rafflecopter widget below.
• Open to U.S. readers only. 
• Giveaway closes at midnight (Central) on December 19.

Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

We are a member of the Tidy Cats Insiders and are being compensated to help spread the word about innovations and updates about Tidy Cats. Catladyland only shares information we think would be of interest to our readers. The opinions are our own.

Purina Better With Pets Summit Reinforces the Positive Child-Pet Relationship

The bond between children and pets is a subject for which I'm particularly passionate. I've written about cats and kids for a few years, and my family is living proof that growing up with pets builds responsibility and nurtures compassion. Who doesn't want more responsible, compassionate people in the world? I know I do.

An older photo of my two kids with Saffy and Phoebe

When I attended the Nestlé Purina Better with Pets Summit earlier this month, I was thrilled to learn there would be a panel on the very subject of my passion! I knew they'd be preaching to the choir with me in the audience, but I loved that everyone else in the crowd would hear what I already knew deep within my heart: pets can change kids' lives in many wonderful ways.

The expert panel included:

Jayne Vitale (moderator) -- Director of Outreach/Youth Development Programs at Mutt-i-grees

Stasha Becker -- mom, blogger, dog lover, and Instagrammer

Ilana Reisner -- veterinary and behavior consultant

Charley Bednarsh -- Director of Children's Services, NYC Family Justice Center in Brooklyn

Becker, Reisner, and Bednarsh (L-R)

I especially enjoyed hearing about Bednarsh's experiences using dogs as therapy animals for anxious children facing difficult legal situations in court. I've read a lot about pets positively affecting anxiety, depression, and even heart issues. It makes a ton of sense that the legal system would tap into the healing power of animals. I hope this example increases awareness and shows others that pets can have a powerful impact on helping kids (and adults) feel calmer and more stable during times of distress. 

In addition to their ability to ease anxiety and improve overall physical and mental health, pets also teach responsibility. Of course, this means adults need to be engaged and make sure children are doing age-appropriate pet-related tasks, and are well-trained in properly handling their pets. For example, a 3-year-old child can scoop food into a dish, but you probably wouldn't want to ask that same child to walk a 100-lb Black Lab or clean a litter box. 

Responsible, respectful, pet-loving adults don't just happen -- they have to start somewhere. As adults, it's our obligation to pass these skills, passions, and priorities on to the next generation. 

I was compensated to help spread the word about Purina Better With Pets Summit. Catladyland only shares information we think would be of interest to our readers. The opinions are our own.

Purina #BetterWithPets Summit Was Informative ... and KITTENS!

I love New York City and I love pets, so of course I was thrilled for the invitation to return to Nestlé Purina's annual Better With Pets Summit. In past years, the summit was set up in a TED Talks format, but this year included three expert panels, interesting speakers, and some fun hands-on activities. Yeah, that means I had my "hands on" a lot of kittens! Jealous? You should be.

Yay, kittens!

The focus of Better With Pets is the human-pet bond, and how our lives really are better with pets. In particular, this year's event centered around the theme of emotional wellness for pets and the people who love them. The panels and activities supported that idea.

P is for Pudge

The first panel discussed the question, "Are millennials changing our relationship with cats?" It was an interesting conversation because I'd never really considered any differences. Since millennials tend to wait to start families, their cats are their children, and they also don't blink an eye at spending money on pampering them.

In a word, infinitely.

The second panel focused on stress and pets. I've always believed my cats are fuzzy little anti-anxiety "meds." I can't tell you the number of times I've looked to my cats for balance, peace, and relaxation. This panel not only validated what I already knew, they discussed stress in pets, how to recognize it, and how to soothe and prevent stress. One of the panelists noted that some vet clinics are now using cages with horizontal bars instead of vertical ones. This gives the cats unobstructed views, thus keeping them in a calmer state.

Expert kids-and-pets panel.

The third panel was especially close to my heart. I've always been a huge proponent of nurturing the relationship between kids and cats. Well, that's just what this panel covered. Pets can be great therapy for kids who are stressed or in crisis, and living with pets helps teach kids responsibility and compassion. Yeah, I'm a big fan.

Yes.

After lunch, we got to experience some cool hands-on exhibits. There were examples of food puzzles, which not only keep pets from wolfing their food, they exercise their brain. My favorite part, of course, was the cat room, which demonstrated healthy environments for kitties. There were many levels or perching spots, hiding places, and toys galore. I could have stayed in that room all day long. I'd probably still be there if I didn't have to catch a cab back to the hotel!

This guy!

Oh, and how cool is this? Purina announced they will donate $50,000 to The Frank Attla Youth Program, which was developed to help at-risk youth in rural Alaska gain confidence and self-esteem by adding dogs into the school curriculum, and giving them a unique opportunity to create bonds with these dogs by teaching students how to care for them.

Robin, Tamar and I hijacked the set.

All in all, it was another successful Summit! I learned a lot, got to play with kitties, and visited with a whole bunch of my favorite blogger friends. I already can't wait until next year!

I was compensated to help spread the word about Purina Better With Pets Summit. Catladyland only shares information we think would be of interest to our readers. The opinions are our own.