No matter if you have a cat, a dog or even a chicken, every pet has items – like Food and toys – that it needs to live a long, happy life. These pet essentials can be found at any pet store, like My Pet Naturally, and usually come in tons of varieties so you can find the best match for your pet. Make sure you have all these essentials before bringing a pet into your home; running to the store in the middle of the night because you don’t have pet food is not a good idea. Here’s a list of 12 pet essentials that every pet owner needs for their pet.

1. Food

The first obvious pet essential is food. Whether you choose raw food, dehydrated food, freeze-dried food, air-dried food, canned food or kibble, every pet needs healthy food. Make sure whatever food choice you go with has all the nutrients your pet needs.

Keep in mind that kittens and puppies, as well as elders, will need a different diet from adult cats and dogs.

2. Food and Water Bowls

Obviously, you can’t put your pet’s food and water on the bare floor; you need food and water bowls! Most people go for plastic bowls due to their low cost, but most dogs tend to chew on the Bowl itself, and plastic can harbor bacteria. Ceramic bowls are another option, but they slide easily and often break.  Try stainless steel bowls instead. Stainless steel bowls are easy to clean and make it more difficult for your pet to move the bowl around the room.

For big dogs, think about raised bowls. If you travel a lot with your pet, buy some collapsible bowls so your furry pal can eat or drink on the go.

Since your pet needs a constant source of water, consider a drinking fountain instead of a water bowl. Some pets prefer fresh, running water over stale water.

3. Supplements

Keeping your pet healthy is vital. Most healthy pet food options will cover this, but sometimes it’s best to have that extra dose via supplements. Pick out some supplements that will boost your pet’s health.

4. Treats

With hundreds of treat options on the market, you shouldn’t have any trouble finding the best treats for your pet. Treats can also go a long way when you start training your cat or dog.

For some delicious homemade treats, stop by My Pet Naturally’s in-house bakery for treats, cakes and more.

5. Grooming Supplies

Cats and dogs alike need constant grooming, especially when they get older and have a harder time keeping themselves clean. Matted coats can be painful and unhealthy, so regularly brush or comb their pelts, especially if your pet has long fur. Bathe your pet to keep their pelt clean and fresh. If you don’t have time for a full bath, use a coat wipe to quickly remove allergens, dirt and odors.

If you feel particularly brave, also try to trim your pet’s nails with a nail trimmer and clean inside your pet’s ears to remove any extra wax.

Now, if you have a difficult pet that hates being groomed, don’t fret. Stop by My Pet Naturally Clean today and get your pet groomed at our in-house pet spa. We offer all grooming services, including nail trims and teeth brushing.

6. Bathroom Essentials

The worst part of owning a pet is cleaning up after them. That is why having the necessary pet bathroom essentials can make this task a bit easier to manage.

For dogs, especially if you are potty training or they are left alone for hours at a time, try potty pads. If your dog does most of his business outside, bring along poop bags to clean up his mess.

For cats, your obvious choice is a litter box and litter with a pooper scooper. To help with odors, try an odor-control litter choice. If your cat tends to scatter litter, use a litter mat.

7. Stain and Odor Removers

Speaking of using the bathroom, sometimes your pet will accidentally leave behind stains and odors that reek. Instead of living with these smells, invest in some stain and odor removers to help clean up after your pet. This is particularly important in letting your pet know that they can’t return to that spot and use it regularly.

8. Collar and Tag

Every cat and dog should have a collar and tag with their name, their owner’s name and their address and/or phone number. This helps your pet find its way back to you in case it runs away or gets lost. The best part about collars and tags is that you can customize them to fit your pet’s personality.

For collars, aim for something that has a quick-release fastener so your pet doesn’t choke if its collar gets stuck on something. The collar should be comfortable on your pet; you should be able to insert two fingers between the collar and your pet’s neck. If you can’t, you need to loosen the collar.

9. Leashes and Harnesses

If your pet loves going for walks, you need a leash and harness. Most pet owners go with only a leash, but a harness can provide more security and comfort, especially for pets that tend to tug and pull on their leashes. Aim for a four to six-foot leash and a harness that lets your pet move with ease.

Leashes should be light in weight but strong enough to maintain your pet. Some owners prefer retractable leashes that provide an extra bit of freedom.

For those that love to walk at night, invest in some reflective harnesses or leash lights to let others know that you’re there.

10. Toys, Toys, Toys

No matter if you have a cat, a dog or a chicken, pets need toys for stimulation and fun. This is a pet essential for any owner. Most dogs want durable chew toys while cats love mouse-shaped toys infused with catnip. Balls are a must-have for any pet, including chickens.

Try to avoid toys that have small pieces (feathers, bells, eyes) that can be easily ripped off and eaten.

11. Crates, Cages and Gates

Sometimes keeping your dog or cat in one room can be difficult. That is why crates, cages and gates are a great option for pet owners. Whether you are gone for hours at a time or simply don’t want your pet in the living room, cages and gates can help you keep your pet in its intended areas. Make sure your crate is easy to clean.

If you are house training, crates are necessary to help avoid accidents. Crates can also provide a safe, secure space with some privacy for your pet. Make sure your pet has enough space to stand up and turn around.

Be sure to invest in a travel-size crate, too, for those trips to the vet and the beach.

12. Beds and Furniture

Unless you want your pet sleeping in your bed, you need to provide an alternative. Our last pet essentials item is beds and furniture. Dog beds are great options for your canine companion, but a great option for your cat is a cat tower or cat tree with a scratching post.

These trees or towers offer sleeping spots and additional vertical space, and they also help your cat focus on scratching that one area instead of your entire house. Keep in mind that cats need to scratch for nail health.

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