My totally crazed cats can’t get over the new Yeowww!® catnip toys that we received in the mail for review about two weeks ago.

They have been hovering over them like hoarders ever since they came out of the box and hit the counter (I couldn’t even get the tags off the toys OR get the toys off the counter onto the floor before Max had strutted off with the fancy red heart toy in toe).

Since that very evening, Max has been attached to his red Yeowww!!® Heart like a starry-eyed lover. He never lets it go. He carries it around in his mouth and he gets the zooms late at night when no one is around and “me-yells” at 1 a.m. into the empty hallway in the dark because he wants someone to play with him!

Sasha prefers the rainbow. Every single night – all night – I mean from like the time I get home from work at 6:30 until I go to bed at 11 (and apparently during the afternoon – or so I hear) since we’ve had it, Sasha is rubbing her neck and little long-haired black body all over that rainbow like it’s filled with tuna. It is adorable because Sasha NEVER plays with toys. But she LOVES the Yeowww!® rainbow and the plain catnip, too!

Tate prefers the hard stuff. HE likes it when I just put the plain Yeowww!® Catnip down on the scratching post for him to eat and roll around in. He’s hard core considering he’s the teeny-tiny, itty-bitty-kitty-committee-kitty cat. He takes all six pounds of his body and throws himself at the nip on the post like he’s diving into a pool. It makes such a loud sound – I wish I could convey how funny this is because it’s so out-of-character for him, especially when people are around!

I swear, Yeowww! Catnip and catnip-filled toys are like crack for cats.

Some might scoff at that analogy, but I can’t think of a better one. It’s like an addiction to them – they can’t control it, they want it 24/7 and they think it’s the best thing since minced tuna.

I think it’s the best invention in the pet industry since the pooper-scooper. The catnip is SUPER-potent – you can smell this stuff from a mile away… and the cats can from two miles away.

All three of them keep trying to break into the cabinet where we keep it (on the bottom shelf); they go in there and knock the container around until someone comes and gives them some! SMART CATS

The award-winning Yeowww!® Catnip and cat toys are heaven-sent. They keep our kittehs busy for hours, and we don’t have to worry about something being unhealthy or harmful to them.

Like it says on the Yeowww!® website (DuckyWorld is the company that owns them…), they are catnip toys that ACTUALLY WORK!

Our old and new Yeowww! cat nip products!

To me, DuckyWorld and Yeowww!® products stand out amongst competitors for two reasons:

1. DuckyWorld stands out in the pet industry because of its especially potent catnip and the toys that are stuffed with it.
2. DuckyWorld also stands out because of their commitment to quality products.

All of their toys are made in the USA and are 100% stuffed with only the finest, organically grown catnip.

From the site: “DuckyWorld closely works with private farmers to grow, manage and harvest the best organically grown catnip on the Earth. We also obtain samples from additional professional growers each year to ensure that we are offering the highest quality based on freshness, color and aroma. No chemicals or pesticides are used in cultivation, which means Yeowww!® Catnip is completely safe for cats and humans. The signature all leaf and flower top blend ensures Yeowww!® Catnip to be the most effective on the market that no competitor can compete with!”

You can find Yeowww!® Cat toys and other products at most local pet stores, independent stores, boutiques and gift shops; the company does not sell to ‘big box’ retail stores.

You can also order online at www.duckyworld.com. I highly encourage you to visit the website and read more about their products, order some up, and then sit back and watch and enjoy your cats FREAK OUT over them!

ThoughtsFurPaws.com gives Yeowww!® a rousing four-paws-up with gusto!

How to be a “pawsome” pet parent in six easy steps

Including a pet in your family can be incredibly rewarding. But leading a happy, healthy pack is also a large responsibility. February is “Responsible Pet Owners Month,” so it’s an opportune time for all of us to brush up on our pet parenting skills.

“It takes lots of love and commitment,” comments Don Tomala, Managing Director of Matrix Partners, a Chicago-based marketing firm that’s been Passionate About Pets^SM since 1987. “You’re entering into a lifelong relationship when you bring a pet into your home.”

Fortunately, there are some surprisingly simple steps to becoming a more conscious, caring pet owner. Here are just a few:

1. Spay or neuter your dog, cat, rabbit or ferret. To prevent the companion animal over-population problem from getting worse, spaying or neutering is the most effective means. The ASPCA estimates that five to seven million animals enter shelters nationwide each year… Do your part to save a few – spay or neuter your pet please.

2. Schedule an annual veterinary checkup. Most animals are experts at concealing pain and illness, that’s why it’s so important for your pet to visit the vet each year for a full check-up. Remember, a healthy lifestyle and regular vet visits are the first steps to a long, happy life with your pet. I know plenty of people who say that they have never taken their pet to a vet because he’s never been sick; this may not be the case. PLEASE GET ANNUAL CHECK-UPS AT THE VERY LEAST.

3. ID and/or microchip your pet. Current ID tags on your dog or cat’s collar can help ensure that they get home safe and sound if they should wander out of your sight. Also, talk to your veterinarian about getting a microchip for your pet. If your pet is ever lost, a quick scan will provide rescuers with important phone numbers and addresses to help them reunite you with your pet. God forbid your pet ever gets lost, a microchip can literally be a life-saver.

4. Be prepared. Most first-aid kits can be purchased fully stocked, but no kit is complete without The Company of Animals’ Baskerville Ultra Muzzle. This ultra-comfortable muzzle is perfect for when introducing pets to new situations or when trying to restrain and treat a wounded or hurt pet. The Baskerville Ultra Muzzle is the first of its kind that allows panting, drinking and treating. Plus, it provides two secure attachment points with an optional over-head safety strap for added comfort and security. For more information, check out: www.CompanyOfAnimals.us

5. Travel Safely. You wouldn’t ride without using a seat belt and neither should your pet. Also from The Company of Animals is the CLIX^TM CarSafe, a dual-purpose lead and harness that easily clicks into the car’s seat buckle. Besides riding in safety, your pet will enjoy the CLIX’s unique “X-Cross” design made from double-sided adjustable buckles and soft neoprene padding for optimum fit and comfort.

6. Pet proof your home. Dogs and cats are curious by nature, so there’s always the possibility that they’ll get into anything. Because of this, it’s important to avoid bringing potentially hazardous products into your home. Being educated about the dangers of certain houseplants (yes, there are some plants that are lethal to pets) and choosing more “bio-friendly” products are usually a good place to start.

Today’s most advanced, responsible pet products are made from safe, eco-friendly materials – like Swheat Scoop^® natural, clumping cat litter. Made from naturally processed wheat, Swheat Scoop is completely biodegradable and a 100% renewable resource. Swheat Scoop is clay and chemical free, unlike other litters on the market that are mined and never decompose. Through Swheat Scoop’s patented process, the wheat’s natural enzymes destroy odors instantly, while the natural starches form firm and fast clumps when exposed to moisture. Swheat Scoop’s granular texture means less dust and tracking around the house, and is recommended by veterinarians for kittens and post-surgical cats. Newly reformulated for even more effective performance, Swheat Scoop is available in Original Formula, Multi-Cat and Lightly Scented varieties at fine pet supply retailers near you. www.SwheatScoop.com

7. Feed your pet right.Today, pet parents have more healthier options than ever when it comes to selecting a proper diet of dinners, treats and supplements for their furry friends.

- Spring Naturals^TM is a fresh approach to nurturing pets, offering a complete line of natural canned and dry dinners for dogs. Real meat, poultry or fish is the first ingredient, plus a balanced blend of whole vegetables and fruits – like spinach, blueberries and carrots. And because their recipes are made with more real meat, poultry and fish instead of rendered meals, no high-glycemic ingredients need to be added such as corn, wheat, soy, tapioca, potato starch or rice. Since launching in January of 2012, Spring Naturals has been recognized by Pet Product News International Magazine, Pet Business Magazine and was added to The Whole Dog Journal’s “Top Recommended” list. Available in Whole Grain and Grain-Free varieties, Spring Naturals products are made by a family-owned company, right here in the USA. Look for them at an independent pet store near you. www.SpringNaturals.com

- Lickety Stik^TM and Feline Lickety Stik^TM are liquid treats uniquely packaged in a roller-top dispenser bottle to offer dogs and cats an incredibly tasty reward without all the calories of conventional biscuit treats. Simply remove the cap, give the bottle a shake and get ready to interact with your pet in an entirely new way. Made with 100% all-natural ingredients, Lickety Stik is ideal for treating on the spot, and is a favorite among groomers and trainers. Plus, you can feel good that you’re providing a between-meal treat that won’t pack on excess pounds. Lickety Stik and Feline Lickety Stik serve only one calorie in every 10 canine licks, or 20 feline licks, and are available in a range of savory flavors. Exclusively from PetSafe, purveyor of innovative pet solutions and services since 1991. For details, check out one of my fave pet product sites: www.PetSafe.net

- Wholistic Pet Organics has made it their mission to maximize the health and wellbeing of pets since 1998 with their superior supplements for dogs, cats and horses. Insisting on using only the finest ingredients, the majority of which are not only Certified Organic but also whole, unprocessed foods to retain their potency and taste appeal every step of the way. New Canine Complete^TM Soft Chews are the latest addition to the all-in-one supplement line and provide a complete daily nutritional regimen for Total Body Health™ in an easy-to-serve form. And because each batch of products is blended and packaged in the Phillips’ family-owned and operated New Hampshire facility, pet parents will love serving these healthful chews as much as their pet enjoys snacking on them. www.WholisticPetOrganics.com.

The foreword is by Barbara Bush – enough said…. No seriously, I couldn’t put this book down once I opened it up and smelled that fresh book smell…

And now I can’t seem to get it out of my Mother’s hands… she won’t give it back to me!

But again, seriously – this is one of those books that’s totally hard core – it’s absolutely absorbing, captivating, intriguing, intelligent, and 100% lovely.

“Pets at the White House” is a beautiful hard cover book that provides a spectacular view into one of the most world-famous houses – the White House – and all of its four-legged creatures including ponies, dogs, cats, parakeets, sheep and more!

With charisma, magic, fascination, wit, fun and gripping photographs (some in black and white from earlier years) , author Jennifer Pickens  uncovers how pets have played a crucial role in the White House throughout the decades, not only by providing companionship to the presidents and their families, but also by humanizing and softening their political images.

The book starts with the Kennedy family and their complete menagerie of animals and continues through 10 administrations and more than half a century to the Obama family and the First Dog Bo.

There are more than 200 superb photographs in this book- images of presidents and their pets in quiet moments as well as more animated times of play – most of which have NEVER BEEN SEEN BEFORE.

I wish I could take a picture of the picturesin this book – they are FAN-FLIPPIN-TASTIC. Amazing.

JFK and kids with a pony

Pickens documents the lives of the the most famous White House pets through fascinating and little-known anecdotes as well…

One such story involves the Soviet Prime Minister, who gave young Caroline Kennedy a puppy, who had to be put through a battery of tests in search of hidden listening devices and bombs!

There’s also the story of President Ford getting locked out of the White House when he took out his very pregnant dog Liberty in the middle of the night!

Another heart-warming tale: the custom birthing box created by White House carpenters for Millie while she was pregnant with presidential puppies during the first Bush Administration.

President George W. Bush’s Scottish Terrier, Barney, became a celebrity in his own right, appearing in more than 10 films while he was at the White House.

Obama and Bo!

And most recently, and perhaps my favorite, President Obama made good on his promise to get his two daughters a puppy, so here came Bo, a BEAUTIFUL Portuguese Water Dog. Bo’s favorite food, by the way, is tomatoes….!

With an intriguing foreword by Barbara Bush, this book has earned the devotion of the recent US First Families, many of whom penned a unique quote for their chapters.

This is a poignant collection of stories and photographs and is a must-have coffee table book for pet-lovers of all types from all over the world.

I will forever cherish this beautiful book and keep it close by.

Everyone who has ever had a pet knows that each one has their own individual personality with unique quirks that make them so incredibly lovable. So when choosing a gift for a pet, why take a one-size-fits-all approach? Shoppers would certainly not take that approach with a husband, daughter, best friend or co-worker and pets shouldn’t be any different.

This holiday, Petco™ is celebrating pet individuality with a gift guide designed to meet the personality of every pet. Read on for their top gift picks:

The Hipster: Have a pet that’s an independent thinker and an edgy dresser? Then you might have a hipster on your hands. A hipster dog wouldn’t be complete without the Petco brand Fashion Bowtie ($8.99), and it’s guaranteed they’ll love kitschy, SimplyShe Holiday Tuxedo Sweater for dogs ($14.99-19.99), a play on the tuxedo shirt. Beards are also a hipster staple, and now envious cool cats can take their hipness up a notch with a Petco brand Santa beard ($4.99) – no more beard envy!

The Health Nut: From a raw diet to an exercise regimen, the health conscious movement has definitely trickled down to pets. Healthy cats will love the Kitty Garden ($9.99); healthy, edible grass in a vintage-inspired wooden planter. The four flavors: barley, rye, oats and wheat not only look great, but help a cat’s digestion and prevent hairballs. The Drinkwell Lotus Pet Fountain ($79.99) has a zen-like feel to it and provides a stylish and convenient supply of fresh, filtered water. Even hamsters can work on their fitness with the Spin City Health Club ($4999), a unique habitat with a wheel that keeps track of how many laps the hamster runs.

The Style Icon: Usually, human fashionistas have mini pet fashionistas that appreciate the latest in haute couture. Pets can travel in style with the BNB“mad about plaid” and passport stamps fashion carriers ($49.99-69.99). They can also be the belle of the ball with the best-in-class Petco brand harnesses($19.99-34.99) that are offered in seven sizes to fit dogs from Chihuahua to Lab in a vast array of colors and prints. Jewelry is always a winner with this set, so a personalized, sparkly Fido Pet ID Tag with crystal accents ($12.00-20.00) is another way to go. And true Parisian fashion, gift a beautiful red or blue Fashion Bow ($8.99) and a Posh Paw manicure service to match mommy’s French manicure.

The Geek: Have a pet obsessed with the latest cutting edge breakthroughs? Cats will love the Littermaid ($129.99-179.99), America’s first fully automatic self-cleaning litter tray. For the family fish that need a new high tech home, the Fluval Spec Aquarium ($69.99) offers a 360 degree view of the tank due to its unique built in filtration system. Reptiles craving an authentic rainforest experience will love the Exo Terra Congo Rainforest Habitat Kit ($199.99). Designed by European herpetologists, it includes a stunning new background design based on the mysterious statues of the dense Congo jungle.

The Foodie: For the food aficionado, The Merrick Holiday Sausage Treats ($9.99) are a beautifully packaged sausage sampler platter that is made with all-natural ingredients, it looks so tasty pet parents can easily mistake it for people food. Foodies can also agree bacon makes everything better and puppies three months or older will agree that the Nylabone Nutri Dent Good Puppy Bacon & Cheese Edible Dental Chews ($7.29-14.99) hits the nail on the head with this good-for-you treat. There are a lot of kitties out there that believe whole-heartedly in the organic movement, so spoil them withBlue Buffalo All Natural Cat Treats ($3.99).

The Philanthropist: For the pet who has everything and wants to lend a helping hand to animals in need, donate on their behalf to the Petco Foundation’s annual Tree of Hope campaign which takes place from November 12, 2012 – January 6, 2013. Donations can be made at the nearest Petco store, Unleashed by Petco store or online at www.petco.com/holiday. Donations help feed homeless pets in shelters, give lifesaving medical assistance, enable rescuers to grow their resources so that they can help ease the burdens of overfull shelters, and provide venues and grants to help usher those without a voice into loving homes.

For more pet gift ideas, visit www.petco.com/holiday.

Use Minted.com for Sophisticated, Loveable Holiday Cards with Your Pet’s Picture on Them

Awhile back I was introduced to Minted.com; they allowed me to create some personalized pet holiday cards for free and now I want to tell you how amazing these cards are.

They turned out wonderful! They are classy but fun, sophisticated but funny. That’s why Minted.com’s personalized pet holiday cards are the Pet Product of the Week!

It’s the kind of amazing that you can’t really see online – you have to see the card in your hand. I ordered a whole bunch to send out to friends and family but am tempted to keep a few for me because I love them so much.

They pet holiday cards, which feature Sasha, Maxwell and Tater Tot, were printed on premium paper that’s so fine. It’s also a bit shimmery – SO pretty.

The front cover of the card!

There are 15 pet holiday cards to choose from at Minted.com right now.The variety is fun and I must have spent 3 hours just playing around and putting the cats’ pictures in different cards!

The pet holiday cards are inventive; some are cute, some are serious and others will make you laugh out loud.

The delivery of my beautiful cards came with a separate pack of high-quality envelopes wrapped up really nicely in a green bow. The pet holiday cards that I finally settled on came packaged in a saran wrap so as not to let them get bent or let the corners get twisted or crooked. The packaging was super-nice and I was really mesmerized.

I was impressed with the professionalism, originality, fun, variety and packaging that Minted.com uses. They are a great company and I seriously recommend you take a gander at their array of pet holiday cards – I guarantee you will fall in love with at least one!