The festive season is a time to gather, celebrate, and share the love — including Christmas with your pets. Whether you’re the parent of a dog, cat, chicken, rabbit, guinea pig, hamster, or all of the above, you’ll want to ensure their comfort and safety this season. Here’s how to create a special Christmas for your furry or feathered family members, from festive treats to favourite traditions.
Including your pets in Christmas
Christmas brings lots of activities that your pets can enjoy along with you. From holiday feasting and gift-giving, to nights in or outdoor exploration, your pets can participate in favourite holiday traditions. Some modifications may be in order, but with some planning and preparation, you can create lasting holiday memories and traditions with your pets for years to come.
A Safe Christmas Dinner for Your Pets
Everyone loves Christmas dinner, and including your pets is a fun way to let them be part of the festivities. Depending on the pets you own, there are certain foods that are safe to give, and some that should be avoided. Here are pet-friendly options for a small, festive meal:
Dogs
Safe: Cooked turkey or chicken (skinless and boneless), plain cooked vegetables (carrots, green beans, pumpkin), a small amount of plain mashed potatoes (no butter or cream).
Safe: Small portions of cooked turkey or chicken (skinless and boneless), plain salmon (boneless and unseasoned), a little cooked pumpkin.
Avoid: Dairy products, onions, garlic, bones, chocolate, and alcohol.
Chickens
Safe: Cooked or raw vegetables (broccoli, peas, pumpkin), cooked rice, and fruits (apples, pears, berries).
Avoid: Avocado, citrus fruits, onion, seasoned or sugary foods, and alcohol.
Rabbits and Guinea Pigs
Safe: Leafy greens and herbs (kale, parsley, spinach), small amounts of raw apples or carrots, bell peppers, strawberries.
Avoid: Potatoes (sweet potatoes are safe), onions, garlic, and sugary treats.
Hamsters
Safe: Small amounts of carrot, cucumber, apple, and plain cooked pasta or rice.
Avoid: Citrus fruits, chocolate, and sticky or sugary foods.
Keep in mind portions are important, even for festive feasting. Too much unfamiliar food can upset the digestive tracts of your pets. Some pets with underlying health conditions like diabetes should also not be offered holiday food unless approved by their veterinarian. If you’re wondering whether or not a food is safe for your pet, here is a list of food and ingredients to keep all pets away from:
Chocolate (contains theobromine, toxic to most pets)
Onions, garlic, and leeks (can cause gastrointestinal upset and anemia)
Artificial sweeteners, especially xylitol (toxic even in small amounts.
Raw potatoes (not including sweet potatoes)
Alcohol
Sugary and salty snacks
Bones (can splinter and cause injury)
If you think your pet may have ingested any of these, contact your veterinarian.
Festive, homemade treats
Small treats scattered throughout the season is another way to include your pets in holiday cheer. Here are some easy easy ideas that offer a delicious and nutritious festivity to your pets’ diet:
Dog-friendly Christmas biscuits
Mix oat flour peanut butter (xylitol-free), and mashed banana.
Roll into shapes and bake at 300°F until firm
Christmas cat treats
Combine canned tuna (in water), egg, and oat flour.
Shape into small balls and bake at 300°F until lightly golden.
Festive fruit and veggie chicken wreath
Thread leafy greens, carrot slices, and apple chunks onto a circular wire for an edible decoration.
Small animal Christmas snack mix
Combine dried herbs (parsley, mint, oregano, etc) with appropriately sized pieces of carrot, apple, and plain cereal to offer to rabbits, guinea pigs, and hamsters.
Top tips for a pet-friendly Christmas
Diet aside, there are other considerations for pets this time of the year. From guests and travelling, to outdoor activities, make sure you factor your pets into your plans. Stick to these tips to keep Christmas smooth and stress-free.
Manage the holiday hustle
Set up a quiet, cozy space for your dog or cat where they can retreat during loud gatherings. Place a dog bed or dog kennel in a secluded spot, or provide a hammock in a cat tree to give your pets a reprieve. Make sure chickens are enclosed in their chicken runs and rabbit and guinea pig hutches should be secured properly to prevent accidental escapes during flurries of activity.
Stick to your pets’ routines as much as possible to combat unnecessary stress, and make sure that holiday decorations and party supplies are out of your pets’ reach. Tinsel, lights, ornaments and discarded paper goods are common items for pets to ingest or chew on.
The same ideas apply when travelling with your pets. Keep to their routine as much as possible, “pet-proof” the areas they’ll have access to, and bring familiar items like beds or toys along if possible. When travelling with your dogs and cats, make sure they are wearing collars with appropriate identification tags, and are up to date on their vaccinations.
Don’t forget festive fun
Christmas photos with your pets are a perfect way to commemorate the season. If your pet is willing to don a costume or sweater for a photo, even better — just make sure to monitor pets closely the entire time they’re clothed to prevent chewing. Many local pet stores or shelters offer photos with Santa and your pets, or check your local town or city for upcoming holiday photo opportunities.
Take your dog on a walk to look at Christmas lights, or include your rabbits, guinea pigs, or chickens in an outdoor holiday scavenger hunt. Curl up with your cat on the couch while you read your favourite holiday book, or invite them to sit in your lap during a late night Christmas movie viewing.
Outdoor winter weather safety
Christmas in Australia hits a little differently. Instead of snowflakes and sledding, the weather is more conducive to rainfall and summertime activities. That doesn’t have to put a damper on the festivities, but it does mean that precautions should be taken to keep your pets safe outdoors. To keep your pets cool in the heat, make sure to:
Keep your pets’ water sources topped off with fresh, cool water
Offer frozen water bottles for your rabbits and guinea pigs to lay next to
Save outdoor activities with your pets for early mornings and late evenings to avoid the heat of the day
Keep a close eye on your pets for signs of heat stress, which can quickly develop into heatstroke. The signs of heat stress in animals include:
Lethargy
Panting
Spreading wings for chickens
Loss of appetite
If you think your pet is experiencing heat stress, it’s important to move them to a cooler area and contact your veterinarian for next steps.
Omlet and your pets
Including pets in your holiday celebrations is a joyful way to honour their presence and their being a part of your family. At Omlet, we believe in ultimate comfort and closeness all year round by inventing pet products that build and strengthen bonds between pets and their people. From insulated chicken coops and revolutionary rabbit and guinea pig hutches, to luxurious dog beds and ingenious indoor cat trees, our pet products are designed to support you and your pets in any season.
Preparing for summer with your pets isn’t just practical — it’s a fun and interactive way to ensure their safety and comfort. Your pets will appreciate the extra effort spent to help ease them into the warmer months, and the process can be an enjoyable bonding experience. Here are some ways to prepare both indoor and outdoor pets for the rising temperatures.
Which pets need to prepare for summer?
With the exception of animals that live in climate controlled settings like reptiles or fish, all pets need additional care or modifications leading up to summer. Even pets that spend the majority of their time inside can benefit from warm weather preparations. From outdoor to indoor animals, here’s how to prepare each type of pet for warm weather.
Outdoor pets
As you can imagine, outdoor pets require the most support during the summer. But, because they are accustomed to living outside, outdoor pets have the advantage of acclimation on their side. Summer temperatures typically don’t hit all of the sudden, so the gradual transition from mild to hot temperatures helps your pets adjust to the coming season. Still, there are some things you can do to help them prepare, and during unexpected heat waves.
Chickens
Most breeds of chickens tolerate the cold better than the heat, so even small gestures can go a long way in helping prepare your hens for the heat. When making the transition from spring to summer, here are some favours you can do to help your flock:
Provide plenty of shade: One of the best ways to ensure your flock stays safe and cool during hot weather is to provide them with plenty of shade. Chicken run covers block harmful UV rays and give your flock solace from the scorching sun. Placing a shallow container of water in the shade for chickens to submerge their feet in will also help keep them cool.
Keep their coop clean and airy: Summer brings hot and humid conditions, so it’s more important than ever to keep their coop clean and dry to prevent respiratory issues and parasites. Having an insulated, easy to clean chicken coop will make this task even easier.
Offer refreshing treats: Stock up on frozen fruits and vegetables, fresh greens, and melons to offer in a chicken treat holder on sweltering days. Freeze puréed fruit in moulds or ice cube trays to offer as a special treat, and make sure their water is changed often to keep it fresh and cool. Electrolytes can also be added to their water as needed.
The majority of chickens are resilient to both heat and cold, but some breeds like Silkies (due to their unusual plumage) and Brahmas (due to their heavy stature) may be more prone to overheating. Monitor your flock for signs of heatstroke in chickens, and contact your veterinarian if you notice anything concerning or unusual.
Outdoor rabbits and guinea pigs
Rabbits and guinea pigs can thrive outside during the summer months, but careful attention should be given to them. Most breeds of rabbits and guinea pigs can withstand warm temperatures, with the exception of Skinny Pigs, which should never be housed outdoors. To keep your rabbits and guinea pigs comfortable outdoors during the summer, be sure to:
Provide lots of shade: Rabbit and guinea pig run covers give your pets a place out of the sun, which aids in lowering their body temperature.
Keep their water fresh: Fresh, cool water is one of the most important aspects of keeping your rabbits and guinea pigs hydrated and healthy during the warmer months. An insulated rabbit and guinea pig hutch will help keep their water at a palatable temperature.
Offer treats and ice: Fresh fruits and vegetables are plentiful during the summer months, and provide essential nutrients and electrolytes. Offer them in a rabbit and guinea pig treat holder to keep insects away. Freeze water bottles to place inside of their hutch and run for your bunnies and cavies to cuddle up next to, which will help cool them off on particularly warm days.
A good rule of thumb to keep in mind is that if it’s too hot for you to be comfortable outside, it’s likely too hot for your rabbits and guinea pigs. Use your best judgement and err on the side of caution — if you’re not sure if your bunnies or cavies are comfortable outside, it may be time to bring them inside during the hottest hours of the day. Rabbit and guinea pig playpens can be used for temporary quarters indoors, or for outdoor visits when the temperatures cool down.
Indoor pets
Pets that spend the majority of their time indoors may not need much to prepare for summer, but there are a few considerations to keep in mind. They’re likely to spend even more hours inside while the temperatures soar, which can lead to boredom. Try the following tips to help your indoor pets stay healthy and happy this summer.
Dogs
More time indoors often equates to boredom for dogs. To combat this potential problem, make sure to keep up with regular activities but with a modified schedule. And, with insects out in full force, you’ll want to make sure your dog is up to date on their prevention and vaccines. Keeping your dog safe during the summer can be accomplished through these steps:
Plan outdoor activities around the weather: Avoid taking your dog for walks or playing outdoors during the hottest parts of the day. If the weather is too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog. Feel pavement with the back of your hand before allowing your dog to step onto it, and make sure to take plenty of cool water along for any outdoor excursions.
Grooming and prevention: Give your dog a good brushing at the beginning of the summer to help free their undercoat. Dogs with double coats like Labrador Retrievers and Australian Shepherds shed their dense undercoats to prepare for the warmer weather, and a good brushing will help them in their endeavor. Keep your dogs current on their vaccinations and parasite prevention to keep them protected during summer travels and adventures.
Make indoors more comfortable: With more time spent inside, you’ll want to make sure that your dog has a comfortable place to relax during the heat of the day. Place their dog bed in a cool place in your home, and make sure their dog crate is well ventilated.
Keep a close eye on brachycephalic dog breeds like Boxers or French Bulldogs during the summer, as they are more prone to overheating. If you have to get out with your dog during intensely hot weather, make sure they stay shaded with plenty of water, and monitor for signs of heat stress. And, remember to never leave your dog in the car when it’s warm outside. With these tips in mind, you and your companion can enjoy the dog days of summer together.
Cats
Indoor cats may not notice the difference in temperature between the seasons, but they will notice the change in the length of the days. Cats typically sleep more during the day than at night, which may equate to more nocturnal energy and activity. They also appreciate a luxurious nap in a sunny spot on warm days, which may also trigger summertime shedding. Here’s how to support your cat throughout the summer:
Enrich their environment: A scratching post or cat tree will curb your cat’s curiosity and give them an outlet to release their pent up energy. With more indoor activities, your cat can get in touch with their wild side without the risk of overheating.
Brush it out: Like dogs, most cats will shed during the summer months to rid their coat of excess fur. With the exception of the Sphinx breed, which are hairless, both long and short-haired cats can benefit from a thorough brushing. Since cats groom themselves, removing excess fur will help cut down on hairballs and other digestive issues brought on by ingested fur.
Prevent parasites: Even if your cat doesn’t go outside, fleas and ticks can hitch a ride on your shoes or your other pets. Make sure your cat is current on their parasite prevention, and wash their cat bed regularly.
You can expect more cat naps from your feline friend during the summer. The extended daylight hours and warmer weather creates the perfect conditions for your cat to catch some extra snooze time. Your cat may also drink more this time of the year, so be sure to keep their water bowl topped off.
Omlet and your pets
Summertime is for easy living — not just for your pets, but for yourself too. As you prepare for the season ahead, choose from our insulated chicken coops or rabbit and guinea pig hutches, comfortable dog beds and entertaining cat scratchers to support your pets all summer long. No matter which pets you share a home with — furry or feathered — our products are designed to be easy on your chore load while providing your pets with exceptional protection and comfort. So sit back, relax, and let Omlet provide the makings for the best summer ever.
Design is in the Omlet DNA. It’s where we began, and it’s a big part of what happens at HQ every day. We talked to Omlet Co-founder and Chief of Design Simon Nicholls about what design means to him, and how it has shaped Omlet’s ethos and journey.
Simon Nicholls, Chief of Design.
What got you into design?
I was one of those annoying kids; I think and visualise in 3d, so anything physical, I’m taking it apart. At heart I suppose I’m a problem solver, someone who wants to get everything in its proper place. Design is problem solving; it’s the itch I had to scratch. So, for me, it was a relatively straightforward trajectory to what we’re doing now. But there was definitely some luck and good fortune in there.
I chose design tech at GCSE, then design tech at A level, then design and manufacture at uni. Then I went onto a postgraduate design course, which is where I met the guys (co-founders Hanns, James and Will). It was a natural path, and I’ve always been grateful for knowing what I wanted to do.
The other thing I’d add is that there are just too many things that don’t work very well, which makes me frustrated. Every time I encounter bad design, it makes me want to do a better job, because it’s a waste of resources.
What drives you each day?
I get massive satisfaction from seeing the great products the team has designed. This isn’t about one person; Omlet is just not like that. Omlet provides people with products they really enjoy, and animals with a better life. That is hugely satisfying. I don’t think it’s ever finished: it’s a continuous evolution.
Why animals?
Well it definitely wasn’t going to be a chair. When you’re studying design, you see these books about chairs through the ages, and I didn’t quite get it at the time – probably because I couldn’t afford those chairs! But it felt like there were enough people doing that. With animals, it became clear to us that people love the idea of having pets, but end up getting frustrated, because it’s a lot of hard work to care for them properly.
The idea initially came from James’ mum. She asked him to design her a better chicken coop. This was in our final year, and we each had to complete our own projects. But Jim’s chicken coop challenge just caught our collective imagination, so the four of us worked on it behind the scenes. We were all invested from the get go.
We felt design in the pet industry had been really neglected; either people make their own things, like chicken coops or runs – and some people do it really well – but a lot of people end up with a compromise, because of cost and the skill needed. Then you have manufacturers who don’t design – they keep reproducing in ways that suit their machines. You might have factories innovating to save time and money, but not designers really considering the purpose and usefulness of the product. Factor in pet shops that need big profit margins to be viable, and the customer ends up paying too much for a basic, disappointing product. When we began creating the Eglu, twenty odd years ago, it coincided with the move to shopping online, which allowed us to get a better value proposition to the customer.
So that’s from a design perspective, but aside from that, I’ve always loved animals. Rabbits. Gerbils. Chickens. But I’m not unique in that way – I think all kids are fascinated. Take an egg: it’s remarkable. Back in 2004, chickens had basically been forgotten about – in the UK at least. Keeping chickens had been a thing, but with the advent of supermarkets, refrigeration, that way of life had largely disappeared.
When we got hold of the idea and started talking about chicken keeping to other people, we found that pretty much everyone had some connection to it in their past, and the questions just kept coming. It was easy to get excited about. When we were first prototyping and testing the Eglu (Classic), I had one in my back garden. We lived in a normal three bed semi – but there was nothing normal about keeping chickens in the garden! My niece came round – she must have been about five. She was fascinated, and kept interacting with the chickens and the coop, picking up the eggs. We knew we were onto something.
All four of you are designers – why did you end up heading up the design team?
At first we were all deeply involved in everything. But we had to pick our responsibilities. And that came down to knowing your strengths and your limitations. The physical aspect of costing, problem solving, making a product real – that was what I wanted to do. There was so much going on, and each of us naturally gravitated towards something, and somehow there wasn’t a scrabble for any of the roles. It was all quite natural.
As the business grew, people grew with their roles. It was organic. I think we all really respect each other too, so we were mindful of everyone having a purpose they felt good with. But also, we were so busy, we were just doing whatever was required. Trade shows, driving up and down the country to manufacturers, delivering chickens, answering the phone, assembling products, we were in startup mode and it was full on from day one.
Why is the Omlet Young Designers Programme important?
Well, I think there are benefits for us, and also for the people who join us. We recruit permanent engineers and one year placement students, who join us as part of their degree. I did one back in 1999, at Dyson. I was thrown in at the deep end and given bucketloads of responsibility, rubbing shoulders with people who had been doing it for 20 years. That was formative for me. There was massive respect for young people with the right attitude. It gave me an ‘anything is possible’ confidence. I wanted to make an impact and I worked really hard. I wanted to create something of my own, because I was inspired by James Dyson and by what he had done. That experience demystified the whole process a bit for me, so I think it’s really beneficial for aspiring designers.
And so, when we began our own internship at Omlet, I always wanted experienced and inexperienced people working together, because it creates this real opportunity to learn and contribute. We get to see the people who are really good and passionate, and we can invite them back. It keeps the more experienced people on their toes too, because the young designers are capable! It benefits both sides, provided you have the right culture of support and teamwork. It can’t be antagonistic: yes it can be mildly competitive, but it has to be highly cooperative. There is a strong emphasis on learning, being open minded to new ideas, at Omlet – we’re all students in that way. We are always questioning and researching; it’s what lets us design better than what’s already been done.
Why does customer feedback matter?
It’s incredibly important and we take it really, really seriously. We have all sorts of ways of collecting info and feeding it back to all areas of Omlet – from how we’re marketing to how we’re designing – and we need to be able to react to those things.
The new ladder (on the Eglu Pro) is a great example. This came through really strongly from our customers all over the world and we spent a long time evaluating and interpreting feedback, and working with customers to get it right. In fact, I think that journey is true for the Eglu Pro as a whole. It exemplifies what we are doing well, because it has come into being through so much observation and communication with our customers. For example, people would take off the EggPort door, then not know what to do with it – that was an opportunity. So we developed the straps for the Eglu Pro that let you collect eggs hands free.
Then there’s the LuxPanel. We saw a trend in the findings of researchers and scientists, about how chickens use their coop in the daytime. So we introduced a panel to let in enough daylight to make it a nicer environment by day, and encourage chickens out simultaneously, but without disrupting the privacy and sheltered environment of the coop.
You can’t design for one climate, one condition. Alaska, Sweden, Australia – there are all sorts of different needs. Of course, you can’t design on a case by case basis, but you can keep looking for trends around the edges, which have a broad benefit.
The Omlet design process takes a long time. Is it hard to communicate the value this creates?
Often, it takes the most work to make something very, very simple. And whether or not people appreciate that, I don’t know! But you can’t get that simple, neat solution without spending the time, and we are relentless in trying to make the right product. We don’t want to make things that end up in landfill. We want to design products that make life better. Otherwise, it’s pointless. That’s our mindset. Companies that make products that break, or aren’t truly fit for purpose, have a short term vision. We are about the long term.
This doesn’t just apply to our products – it’s how we view relationships with our suppliers, with our staff – it links through to animal welfare, to finding the best solutions for meeting our pets’ needs. Longevity and material usage and purpose go hand in hand. People might think plastic is awful, but it’s not: it’s an amazing material. Lives have been saved by plastic – look at inhalers, defibrillators. It’s about appropriate use. So, if the products are throwaway, or end up in the bin because they’re not fit for purpose, then there’s no good material: it’s still a waste.
You have to consider many factors: manufacturing process, usagage, packaging, storage… for example, if using a raw material means you can pack the product in a way that saves eight times the carbon volume, then it could be that in that instance, using a raw material is preferable to a recycled one.
Take a dog bed cover that will get worn away, need replacing at some point – we use recycled material. But the bed filling, there is a virgin material that stays firm and keeps its shape and compresses far better than its recycled equivalent – and because it’s protected by the cover, it won’t need replacing. It’s about changing the mindset. Rather than ‘good’ or ‘bad’ materials, we need to look at many factors and focus on what’s fit for purpose, long term.
Which product is your personal favourite, and why?
Bloody hell. That’s like asking someone which is their favourite child. But OK. I think one of my favourites is the clip that holds our runs together. That solution, which we invented in 2007, has given us so much freedom. The anti tunnel skirt (on the runs) is another favourite – we got to that by talking to farmers. One guy had hacked something similar for foxes – we took the concept into the studio. Oh, and the slide out dropping tray (part of the Eglu design). It’s life changing.
We don’t shy away from difficulties to make a product a reality. You have to live and breathe it and truly understand the animal. Our animals here (at Omlet HQ) are part of our design team. The Geo Feeder was born out of watching the budgies and seeing the husks all over the floor in the office. We realized these seed cases go everywhere! We used geometry to ensure that the feeder works with how the birds eat, and catches the husks.
Sum up good design in 3 words.
Satisfying. I want to say delightful. Invisible, maybe. Humble. Hmm, maybe. We have a little plaque in the studio. It has (Dieter Rams’) ten golden design principles engraved on it. He wrote those in the ‘80’s; those principles stand. So there’s three words for you: Dieter Rams’ principles.
Omlet began with the Eglu Classic – now there’s a whole EGLU range. Was that the plan?
I think it was a natural evolution. We started with this idea that having a couple of chickens in your back garden was something all these suburban people were missing out on. We were students. We never expected it could go this far. But we found that what we were doing connected with far more people than we’d imagined. When a farmer told us they kept their domestic chickens in an Eglu, we realized people were using our coops on a bigger scale. And it just grew from there. Do the chicken math!
Backyard pets and plants can be a surprisingly beneficial pairing. You don’t have to give up beautiful plants or crops in order to keep pets in your backyard. In fact, your pets can add to the beauty and efficiency of your backyard garden. Here are some tips for successful gardening with animals.
Pets that power plants
Pets can not only live peacefully among your plants, but can actually benefit your garden in surprising ways. Here are some of the most beneficial backyard pets for gardens:
Chickens
Rabbits
Guinea Pigs
These pets provide “fertilizer gold” for your plants in the form of manure. In fact, serious gardeners will often pay for bags of chicken or rabbit manure to add into their compost piles. Guinea pig droppings are similar in composition to rabbit manure, making them another excellent choice for fertilizer. Chickens have the added benefit of providing pest control, and will happily eradicate your plants of any insects they can find.
Dogs can also benefit a garden by keeping wild rabbits, birds, or other wildlife at bay. Your dog doesn’t have to be cross-trained as a scarecrow — their scent alone will help to deter other animals. But in order for your pets to benefit your plants in a safe and effective way, you’ll need to make the necessary arrangements.
Separate places for pets and plants
Successfully keeping plants and pets healthy and happy comes from careful planning. Your backyard garden will flourish and your pets will thrive when they’re provided their own respective areas. Each pet species has their own needs to keep them safe in your garden, but with the right setup, you and your pets can enjoy a mutual backyard hobby.
Chickens and your garden
Chickens play a vital part in pest control, as well as plant nutrition thanks to their nitrogen-rich droppings. However, chickens will also happily devour a variety of plants, especially those with flowers or fruit. Because of this, you’ll need to make sure that your chickens have their own space in a chicken coop and run, and opt for chicken fencing to keep your chickens away from tempting plants while they’re out free-ranging. Chickens will also gladly turn your compost pile for you, so consider keeping your kitchen scraps and chicken-safe fertilizer in their fenced area for your flock to maintain.
Rabbits and guinea pigs in your garden
Rabbits have earned a harsh reputation among gardeners. While rabbits do enjoy nibbling on vegetation, they can be very helpful gardening assistants. In addition to their manure being top-notch fertilizer for plants, they will happily chew wayward grass or unwanted plants like dandelions or clover. The trick is to contain them to specified areas through strategic placement of their rabbit hutch and run or rabbit playpens. By placing your rabbits’ area alongside unwanted vegetation, or overgrown areas that need to be kept in check, your pets will happily perform your pruning duties for you.
Guinea pigs are very similar to rabbits, in that they will happily nibble on vegetation of all varieties. But due to their short stature and inability to jump, they’re much easier on your garden plants. Consider creating guinea pig-approved areas in your garden through the use of Zippi Guinea Pig Tunnels and Zippi Guinea Pig Playpens. Your cavies will clear ground crops and weeds, and any low-hanging vegetation that needs trimming.
Dogs and your garden
Dogs might not offer as much paws-on help in the garden as other pets, but they can keep you company and deter unwanted visitors like wild rabbits or birds. Not all dogs will dig in your garden, but to prevent unwanted holes and displaced mulch or decorations, consider using barrier fencing to prevent your pup from disturbing your landscaping.
Beware of toxins
Not all plants are safe for animals, especially those that may be tempted to sneak a taste like chickens, rabbits, and guinea pigs. Make sure that your garden contains pet-safe plants. Some plants that are toxic to rabbits, guinea pigs and dogs may not be toxic to chickens. Common garden plants that are toxic to all animals include:
Azaleas
Daffodils
Lilies
Rhododendrons
Oleanders
Tulips
Yews
This is not an exhaustive list, so be sure to correctly identify and label each plant that is found in your garden to ensure your pets’ safety. If your garden contains plants that are toxic to pets, you’ll need to remove it from the roots.
Also be mindful of fertilizers, pesticides, and weed killers that you may use in your garden. Natural forms of these should state their safety for pets and people, but as a general rule of thumb, all chemical pesticides or weed killers should be considered toxic to your animals. Fertilizers that contain weed inhibitors or other chemicals should not be used around pets.
Omlet and your backyard pets
Gardening is meant to be a leisurely pastime, and we believe that pets can be a part of the experience. With chicken fencing, small animal playpens, and large outdoor pet runs, you can combine your love of plants and pets with ease. Create a peaceful outdoor oasis with your pets when you pair your garden with our ingenious outdoor animal-keeping products.
There is something undeniably magical about the bond between humans and their pets. Whether it’s the wagging tail of a dog greeting you at the door, the gentle purr of a cat curling up beside you, or even the serene presence of chicken pecking gracefully in the yard, pets bring joy, comfort, and a sense of companionship that can profoundly enhance our lives. This connection is not just about having a furry (or feathered) friend; it’s about the myriad ways pets can positively impact our well-being. In this blog, we’ll explore how pets reduce loneliness, increase feelings of social support, boost our mood, and encourage physical activity, all contributing to a happier, healthier life.
Pets make the perfect companion
One of the most significant ways pets improve our well-being is by reducing loneliness. For many people, loneliness can be a constant and overwhelming feeling, particularly in today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world.
Having a pet can provide much-needed companionship, offering a reliable presence in your life. For instance, dogs are known for their loyalty and affectionate nature. A dog will happily sit by your side, listen to you talk about your day, and offer a comforting paw or nuzzle when you need it most. This constant companionship can make a world of difference, providing a sense of connection and purpose.
Cats, too, are wonderful companions that can alleviate feelings of loneliness. Though often more independent than dogs, cats form strong bonds with their owners. The simple act of having a cat curl up in your lap or follow you from room to room can be incredibly soothing. Even watching fish swim in a tank can be a calming and engaging experience, offering a sense of companionship without requiring extensive interaction. These small, everyday interactions with pets help fill the void of loneliness, making life feel richer and more fulfilling.
Increased feelings of social support
Pets not only provide direct companionship but also increase feelings of social support. This support can manifest in various ways, such as through the connections we make with other pet owners. Taking your dog to the park, for example, often leads to conversations with fellow dog lovers, fostering a sense of community and shared interest. These interactions can develop into friendships, further expanding your social network and providing emotional support beyond your immediate circle.
Moreover, pets themselves can act as a form of emotional support. The unconditional love and non-judgmental nature of animals create a safe space where you can express your feelings without fear of criticism or misunderstanding. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals dealing with stress, anxiety, or depression. Knowing that your pet is always there for you, ready to offer a cuddle or simply sit quietly by your side, can be immensely comforting and reassuring.
Pets boost your mood
Another remarkable benefit of having pets is their ability to boost your mood. The joy and amusement pets bring into our lives are unparalleled. Imagine coming home after a stressful day and being greeted by a dog so excited to see you that its entire body wiggles with delight. This pure, unbridled happiness is infectious, instantly lifting your spirits. Even watching a cat playfully chase a feather or a hamster running in its wheel can bring a smile to your face and lighten your mood.
Pets also provide routine and structure, which can be incredibly stabilizing for mental health. The responsibilities of feeding, grooming, and exercising a pet give you a sense of purpose and accomplishment. This daily routine can be particularly beneficial for those struggling with depression or anxiety, as it encourages them to stay active and engaged.
Additionally, the physical act of petting an animal has been shown to release endorphins, the body’s natural “feel-good” chemicals, further enhancing your mood and sense of well-being.
Pets get you moving
Physical activity is another area where pets can have a profound impact on our well-being. Owning a dog, for example, naturally encourages more exercise. Dogs need regular walks, playtime, and outdoor exploration, which means their owners do too. This regular physical activity can lead to improved cardiovascular health, weight management, and overall fitness. Plus, spending time outdoors, whether at a park or simply around the neighbourhood, provides fresh air and a change of scenery, both of which are beneficial for mental health.
Even pets that don’t require outdoor exercise can inspire increased physical activity. Playing with a cat using toys or setting up an engaging environment for a rabbit can get you moving more than you might think. These interactions not only provide physical benefits but also strengthen the bond between you and your pet, creating a mutually enjoyable experience that enhances your overall well-being.
Omlet and your pet
Omlet understands the remarkable bond between human and pet and the depth of this relationship. By asking the right questions and delving into what truly fosters the wondrous connection between people and their pets, Omlet creates ingenious products designed to enrich your pet’s life and strengthen your bond. From innovative chicken coops to custom cat trees, Omlet’s products are thoughtfully crafted to bring you and your pet closer, ensuring that every moment together is filled with joy and mutual benefit. Discover how Omlet can help you celebrate and nurture the special connection with your beloved pet, enhancing your well-being and theirs.
Becoming a pet parent doesn’t mean your fun festivities have to come to a halt. While your New Year’s Eve party might look a little different with the responsibility of an extra four paws or feathered flockmates, there’s no reason it can’t be the best yet. Here are our tips on how you can celebrate New Year with your pet while ensuring you have a great time, too.
Keep it calm
Pets and loud noises don’t go, but isn’t music what makes a party? This time of year can already be stressful for our furry and feathered friends, with a sudden change of routine and fireworks, so adding to the chaos with your favourite festive songs at full volume is a bad idea.
This being said, some pets such as dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs and chickens can benefit from classical music, which has been shown to reduce stress and have a calming effect. So, if you do insist on listening to music during your celebrations, be sure to get your classical playlist at the ready and keep the volume down.
Tuck into the treats
Gorging out on your favourite goodies on New Year’s Eve is a wonderful way to celebrate your night in. Any leftover chocolates from Christmas and easy-to-make canapes are the best snacks this time of year – but what about for your pets?
Making festive bites for your pets is super easy, fun, and means no one gets left out of the party. While shop-bought treats can be given to your pets in moderation, homemade snacks make for an extra special night in and are far healthier than the alternative.
For Fido, these recipes for festive dog treats and Christmas cookies are sure to be a hit, or why not try some leftover plain turkey in a cat-friendly bone broth for your feline friend? While they might not be inside for the party, guinea pigs and rabbits will love some leafy greens or broccoli in their Caddi Treat Holders. And, don’t forget about your flock. Your hens will appreciate a few festive delicacies as well as a special treat from their usual diet.
Movie marathon
In between your pet-friendly canapes, get cosy on the couch with your favourite festive films. Why not treat your dog to a Luxury Faux Sheepskin Dog Blanket from Omlet for them to snuggle up to, or how about our Super Soft Cat Blanket to keep your furniture free from hair and make the ultimate chill-out spot for your cat too?
Some cats, dogs and birds love watching TV, especially if there are other animals involved. Others hate it, however, so it’s a wise idea to gauge an idea of how your pet reacts before making any plans to have a movie marathon this New Year’s Eve.
Pet-friendly resolutions
The beginning of the New Year is the perfect time to reminisce on the past few months and prepare for what you hope the future holds. And, what better time than a night in on New Year’s Eve to spend with family and friends, sharing what you’d like to achieve? It’s also an opportunity to reflect on your pet’s year and consider any potential goals you have for them.
Maybe you’d like to explore new places with your dog, teach your piggies some new tricks or perhaps your cat would benefit from a new scratching post to help them lose weight. As with setting any goals, make sure to use the SMART method so that you and your pet stand the best chance of achieving what you set out to do. This means that your goal should be specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and timely. You can find some more suggestions on how you can set some pet-friendly New Year resolutions can be found in our previous blog here.
Goodie bag galore
Invited some of your or your dog’s friends round for your New Year’s Eve night in? Before the celebrations come to an end, make sure that no one leaves empty-handed. Send your guests away with some tasty goodies from the night, of course ensuring they’re pet-friendly if necessary. You can also include a printed snap of you and your pet as another suggestion. Creating goodie bags is an excellent way to add a personal touch for your guests and serve as a reminder of the great night everyone will have had.
Omlet and your pet’s New Year
Get ready for whatever the New Year has in store with help from Omlet’s innovatively-designed pet products. From our LED Cat Scratcher for helping felines get fit, to our easy-to-clean dog beds for post-adventure nap times and our Eglu Cube for those who want to expand their flock, our ingenious designs help make pet ownership both practical and a joy.
When we think of “holidays”, most people would probably think of the big three: Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. While those may be behind us, there are plenty of holidays sprinkled throughout the year to celebrate – many of which are in honour of our pets! We’ve compiled some lesser-known holidays that can be observed with your furry and feathery family members in 2023.
January
January marks the beginning of a new year. New beginnings, resolutions, and habits are at the forefront of our minds when the calendar turns to the next year. But did you know that January is also “Adopt a Rescued Bird Month”? Here are some other significant days in January:
Adopt a Rescued Bird Month (all month)
Birds are often overlooked as pets, but actually make wonderful additions to families! From parakeets to parrots, there’s a bird for any household! Shelters and rescues are a couple of places to find birds in need of their forever homes.
2nd: Happy Mew Year’s for Cats Day
Not to be outdone by humans, cats have their own “Mew Year’s Day”! Created by a feline-specific website, this day is largely for fun, but can also help educate non-cat owners about enjoying cats as pets.
24th: Change a Pet’s Life Day
From adopting a shelter pet, fostering a pet in need, or donating to a pet fundraiser, this day is dedicated to bettering the lives of pets all over the world.
29th: Seeing-Eye Guide Dog Anniversary
This day is actually in honour of the first school that trained seeing-eye dogs for the visually impaired. “The Seeing-Eye” dog school was created in the US on January 29th, 1929. It was the first school of its kind, giving hope to blind people all over the world. To this day, the “The Seeing-Eye” still remains one of the most successful schools for seeing-eye guide dogs in the world.
February
Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to get all of the attention! February is actually full of fun pet-holidays and themes to celebrate. Here are a few:
Adopt a Rescued Rabbit Month
Rabbits find themselves in shelters, just as cats and dogs do. February aims to raise awareness about rabbit ownership and to help families find rabbits that are in need of their forever homes.
Responsible Pet Owners Month
Caring for a pet is not to be taken lightly! Having an animal that is completely dependent on their human is a huge responsibility. From daily care, veterinary visits, and providing safe accommodations, responsible pet owners should be celebrated and help raise awareness of the importance of keeping pets healthy and happy!
Spay/Neuter Awareness Month
Another vital part of pet ownership is helping to control unwanted litters. Population control is one of the things the world needs most when it comes to reducing the number of homeless pets. Consider spaying or neutering your pet, and educate others about the importance of this simple, yet life-changing procedure!
20th: Love Your Pet Day
This holiday can be celebrated in so many ways! From a special treat, extra-snuggle time, an outing, or a new toy – the goal is to make your pet feel the love!
23rd: International Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day
All dogs appreciate a good dog biscuit! This day is the perfect excuse to try out that boutique doggie-bakery. Support a local business and treat your dog at the same time!
25th: World Spay Day
Did you know that having your pet spayed can add years to their lifespan, and is beneficial to their overall health? Most mammals can be spayed, which means your dog, cat, rabbit, guinea pig, or other small pet can benefit from this procedure!
March
March has St. Patrick’s Day and the First Day of Spring, but also holds some hidden-gems for pet-themed days! This March, look out for:
Adopt a Rescued Guinea Pig Month
Guinea pigs are surrendered to animal shelters just as dogs, cats, and rabbits. And, since most guinea pigs thrive as a bonded pair, a solo-guinea pig is in desperate need of a home with a friend! If you’re thinking about adopting a guinea pig (or two!) to your family, March is the perfect time!
Poison Prevention Awareness Month
Poisonous substances aren’t just found in the cabinets of your home, but in nature, table scraps, and more! March aims to raise awareness of these hazards to pets, and how to make your home and yard a safer space for animals.
3rd: If Pets Had Thumbs Day
This interesting thought-turned-holiday gives your imagination a boost! Pets could do some strange, wonderful, and mischievous things with an opposable appendage. What could your pet do if they had thumbs?
28th: Respect Your Cat Day
Cats demand (and deserve!) respect every day, but this day has been set-aside just for this purpose.
30th: Take a Walk in the Park Day
What better way to welcome spring than a walk in the park? Take your dog out for a leisurely stroll and enjoy the changing of the seasons!
April
April showers bring May flowers, but what about days to spend with your pet? April has some interesting and awareness raising days such as:
1st-7th: International Pooper Scooper Week
Did you know that the “pooper scooper” was invented over 30 years ago? An inventor named Robert Veech devised a way to pick up after dogs when confronted by a disgruntled party-goer – who was waving a dog-poop covered shoe after stepping in the mess outside! The rest, as they say, is history! We may take these gadgets for granted, but take this week to appreciate the device that looks out for your yard and your back.
26th: International Guide Dog Day
This day is a perfect time to raise awareness of guide dogs and their importance to visually impaired individuals. Consider donating to a local guide-dog school or trainer, or use this day to learn more about guide dogs and their roles with their humans.
27th: World Veterinary Day
Veterinarians are real-life animal whisperers! Their patients come in all shapes, sizes, and species, and aren’t able to tell them what’s wrong. Some veterinarians even go to school for as long as human doctors! They dedicate their lives to improving the lives of animals and the humans that care for them. Consider doing something special for your veterinarian – a thank you card, flower arrangement, or homemade goods to show them your appreciation!
30th: Adopt a Shelter Pet Day
Rescuing an animal from the shelter is one of the most rewarding experiences a pet owner can have! Shelters are full of dogs, cats, small animals, and sometimes even farm animals in need of loving homes. Visit your local shelter, and you may just find your next family member!
May
When it comes to animal holidays, May has some pretty great ones! The overall theme is kindness toward animals, with events like:
Responsible Animal Guardian Month
Pet owners have a responsibility to their animals. They have to ensure their needs are met, and that they’re healthy and happy! Animals may not speak the same language that humans do, but a responsible animal guardian knows what their pets need, and when something may be amiss. May is a great time to remind ourselves and others what an honour it is to care for animals!
3rd-9th: Be Kind to Animals Week
Something as simple as topping off your backyard bird feeder with a special treat, or making a donation to an animal shelter or other facility is a great way to show kindness to animals! Share ways to show kindness to pets and wild animals alike with others to foster the amazing human-animal bond!
30th: International Hug Your Cat Day
This is probably a daily occurrence for cat owners, but just in case you need an extra-excuse to hug your cat, May 30th has got you covered!
June
With summer on the horizon, June is an exciting month! But don’t forget these pet-themed days:
Adopt a Cat Month
Continuing from May 30th, if you don’t have a cat to hug, why not adopt one? Cats make wonderful pets! They’re smart, quirky, and each have their own unique personality. Thousands of cats are searching for their forever home – could it be yours?
9th: World Pet Memorial Day
This is a day to reflect and remember pets that have gone over the rainbow bridge. Share stories and memories to honour the memory of a beloved pet.
22nd-28th: Take Your Pet to Work Week
While it may not be possible for everyone in the workforce, bringing your pet to work can be a fun way to shake things up! Just make sure to get the go-ahead from your boss first.
21st: Dog Party Day
Need an excuse to throw a party for your dog? Look no further! Throw a fun summer-themed party with dog-safe treats and activities for a sensational start to summer!
July
Summer is here! But don’t forget these dates when making plans:
Dog House Repair Month
With warmer temperatures and wetter weather, July is a great time to check your dog’s outside shelter and make improvements as necessary.
A vital part of keeping animals healthy during hotter months is by keeping them hydrated! All animals need access to fresh, cool drinking water to stay hydrated. So, check your waterers, then spread the word!
Did you know that more pets go missing around the 4th of July than any other time of the year? Be sure your pet is properly identified! Collars, tags, and microchips are all ways to increase the chances of your pet finding their way home.
16th: Guinea Pig Appreciation Day
Show your cavies some extra love! Serve their favourite snack in a Caddi treat holder, give them some extra snuggle time, or give them a new toy to play with.
August
The “dog days of summer” are in full-swing, but here are some dates to help you power through the heat:
Clear the Shelters Month
A crowded animal shelter is no place to cool down – give a shelter pet a home this month! This awareness month has the goal of finding homes for all shelter animals.
1st: “DOGust” – Universal Birthday for Shelter Dogs
Speaking of shelters, August 1st is the universal birthday for any shelter dogs with an unknown birthdate!
8th: International Cat Day
Really every day for cat owners, but International Cat Day is a great way to spread awareness of the joys of having a cat in your life!
10th: Spoil Your Dog Day
Buy the toy. Eat the treats. Most importantly: have fun!
17th: International Homeless Animals Day
Aimed to bring awareness to the staggering number of homeless pets all over the world.
26th: International Dog Day
For dog owners, this is every day of the year, but is also a perfect time to share the joys of being a dog-owner with others!
September
Fall is just around the corner! Keep these days in mind when preparing for the change of season:
Pet Sitter Education Month
Pick your pet sitter for the upcoming holiday season, and educate them on how to care for your pets!
Animal Pain Awareness Month
Most animals are masters at hiding their pain. As their owners, humans have a responsibility to know when their pet is in pain. Ask your veterinarian for resources on how to recognize pain in your pets.
19th: Responsible Dog Ownership Day
Aimed to raise awareness of what responsible dog ownership looks like, this day is to commend the great dog owners, and to encourage them to educate those wanting to add a dog to their family – the responsible way.
28th: World Rabies Day
Recognized globally in an effort to raise awareness of this terrible, but preventable disease, World Rabies Day is a great opportunity for education! Thanks to vaccines, rabies is now extremely rare in domesticated pets like cats and dogs. Is your pet up to date?
October
Halloween is the heavy-hitter for October, but don’t forget these dates too:
Adopt a Dog Month
Have you been considering adding a dog to your family? Adoption is one of the most rewarding experiences – for both you and your dog! Visit your local shelter, or contact a rescue group to see if they have your perfect match.
4th: World Animal Day
Celebrate all animals, all over the world for the wonders that they are!
19th-23rd: Veterinary Technician Week
Like veterinarians, veterinary technicians work hard. After all, holding cute animals is only part of the job! Show the veterinary support team some love this week by penning a “thank you” note, bringing food to their workplace, or by simply telling them how much you appreciate them in person.
November
Thanksgiving is the show stopper, but don’t forget your pets during this time of thanks:
Adopt a Senior Pet Month
Senior pets are often overlooked by families, but often have so many memories and experiences to give! Choosing to adopt a senior pet may come with some challenges, but the reward will be great!
8th: International Human-Animal Bond Day
One of the most amazing feelings to experience is felt through the bond between humans and animals. We don’t speak the same language, eat the same foods, or enjoy all of the same things, yet somehow animals bridge the gap between us through their intellect and desire to know us. How amazing is that?
December
Christmas can certainly be celebrated with our pets, but consider observing these dates as well:
5th: International Volunteer Day
Have you ever thought about volunteering at an animal shelter? Or maybe at an animal event? Here’s the inspiration you need!
9th: International Day of Veterinary Medicine
Veterinary medicine helps both animals and people! Did you know that veterinary medicine also studies zoonotic diseases (those that can be passed from animals to humans). By keeping animals healthy, veterinary medicine also keeps the human population healthy!
We want to give a shout out to the unsung furry or feathered heroes that provide companionship, comfort and cuddles when we’re not feeling our best – the Power of Pets. We asked the Omlet community to share their stories of the times when pets have saved their day, month, year or even life – and the results are extremely heart-warming. Grab a tissue and keep reading!
DEBORAH & TEDDY
I have always wanted to have a cat, but I struggled with the thought of supporting an animal, thinking they wouldn’t be happy with me and that I would be using them.
I have very low self esteem. I suffer from ADHD, and one of the symptoms is Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria i.e. the fear of being rejected if I made the slightest mistake. This led to me not wanting to become attached to anyone, human or animal, as I was sure that I would automatically make them unhappy.
And then, in the summer of 2021, a friend who knew I wanted a cat told me about Teddy. I fell in love with her as soon as I saw a photo, and adopted her on a whim. I have never regretted it.
She taught me how to respect her, to respect myself, that I could be loved unconditionally and that she has absolute confidence in me. She wakes me up, she plays, she cuddles, and we have created a way to understand each other. I especially like it when she comes and disturbs my meditation sessions. I’m sitting cross-legged and quiet so I must want hugs, right?
Of course, I have also had help from mental health professionals, but Teddy was definitely the one who taught me that I was valuable and had the right to be loved. Today, I can’t imagine my life without her. I’ve been having anxiety attacks for a few years, but they have changed, and now I can fight them.
CLAIRE & RYO
I am a psychologist and my dog Ryo, a Lhasa Apso, comes with me to work to meet my patients. I work with people aged 55 to 99, and I can only see the benefits Ryo has on them. For a moment they forget everything else and just relax and laugh, and they always talk about Ryo the next session and how much they liked meeting him.
Sometimes patients cry, and then Ryo goes straight to them and offers hugs. It’s amazing to see how sensitive he is to our emotions. And for me, it’s a daily joy to have him by my side – I genuinely never feel lonely.
BECCA & HER HENS
I have 6 hens. Nat, Wanda, Prim, Nieve, Peggy and Winter, plus two in heaven. They are rescue hens but really, they rescued me. I was going through a really dark time in my life and they made me smile on my darkest days. They are still sometimes the reason I get out of bed. The way they are so excited to greet me. Many people don’t realise how spectacular and loving chickens are. I’m forever grateful that they came into my life – they help me so much!
LINDSEY & BIGGIE
I have struggled with mental health issues and drug abuse issues since I was 12 years old, I am now 30. Growing up I always had cats and dogs, but everything changed when I got Biggie Smalls.
Biggie is a 2 pound male teacup chihuahua, and the most unique dog that I have ever owned. I don’t even consider him a dog, he is my son and he comes with me pretty much everywhere I go. When I got him I was in a very bad place mentally, and my life revolved around drugs. I ended up going to rehab twice after getting him, and the last time I decided that he was the most important thing in my life and that I needed to change and better myself for him.
I have no human children, just my four dogs; Biggie, Puppers, Milo, and Luna. After coming home from rehab for the last time my life has completely changed. I wake up in the morning happy and blessed to be able to have Biggie and the rest of my dogs in my life, I don’t wake up craving anything but him! I am doing things that I never had any interest in doing before. Like cooking, I want the best and healthiest life for him. The point is that if I didn’t have Biggie I don’t know where I would be right now, or if I would even be here. My outlook on life has done a complete 180° and I don’t have to force myself to want to do anything anymore, it just comes naturally.
They all bring so much joy to my life, I have been clean going on just around a year now and it’s all because of him! I truly believe that anybody struggling with mental health issues or drug addiction can change their lives for the better and mine has changed because of Biggie Smalls!
AZANIEL & SIMON
A few years back my father passed away. He was my best friend and teacher, and meant the world to me. When he passed away I had a hard time accepting it. Then someone gave me a budgie. His name is Simon and he decreased the pain a lot. After 3 years I decided to get him a partner. Her name is Catherine and they also have a baby chick together, Luke. They just make your life so much more pleasant because they are so adorable and won’t judge you. They also accept you and who you want to become.
Are you looking for some fun activities for the whole family over the Easter holiday? We’ve gathered some fun games, creative craft activities and delicious recipes that will keep children (and adults) busy between the egg painting and the hot cross bun snack breaks!
Who doesn’t love a carrot cake with their afternoon tea? This recipe makes for a deliciously moist and beautiful cake, and it’s simple enough you can get the children to help.
Are the pets in the family also finding the holiday a bit long? Here are some great things that you and your children can do together with, or for, your pets.
Hopefully these tips will make the Easter holiday extra creative, fun and yummy for the whole family! Tag Omlet on social media to let us know what you think!
Thursday 17th February is Random Acts of Kindness Day, celebrating the small (or big) things you can do to make someone else’s day, week, month or even year. This is the perfect opportunity to spread some happiness to friends and family, furry or not! Here are a few suggestions of things you could do (pet based of course!)
Walk a Friend’s Dog
If your friend has just had a baby, has a busy time at work or just has a four legged friend that won’t tire, they will most likely be overjoyed if you pop around to take their dog for a walk. Spend an hour enjoying the countryside or throwing a ball around in the park, and you will be both dog and owner’s favourite person!
Make a Cake From Your Hens’ Eggs
Gather up a few fresh eggs from your chicken coop and dig out your favourite cake recipe. Invite some friends over for a spontaneous afternoon tea or knock on the neighbours’ door and hand them your delicious creation.
Buy Your Pet a Blanket
For pets it’s Random Acts of Kindness Day every day of the year. They give us so much joy it’s nice to, every now and then, treat them to something nice. A great gift for your pet is a Super Soft Dog Blanket to put on their bed. They don’t even have to be a dog, many pets will love snuggling up on a blanket for some extra warmth and comfort.
Go to a Pet Shop and Pay For Someone’s Shopping
Give back to a fellow pet owner at the pet shop. You don’t even have to make yourself known, just leave some extra money when you’re paying and tell the shop assistant to put it towards the next customer’s purchase. A gift to both pet and owner!
Donate to an Animal Shelter
If you have a few pennies to spare there is arguably no better way to spend them than to donate to an animal shelter or charity. Some shelters accept donations in the form of food, treats and bedding, so you could buy an extra bag of your own pet’s favourite feed and put it in a donation box or bring it off at the HQ.
Make Today Your Pet’s Perfect Day
You probably have a pretty clear idea of what your pet’s ideal day would look like. Maybe it’s a special breakfast followed by a walk or some playing? A grooming session and some cuddling? Or just treats galore! You can pretend it’s their birthday and make every aspect of the day that little extra bit special. And we’re sure you’ll also have a big smile on your face by bedtime!
Collect Litter on Your Dog Walk
As you’re already going out, you might as well take a rubbish bag and some gloves and pick up some litter while your dog is bouncing around. You’ll be surprised how much rubbish is hiding in hedgerows or on the side of the road. A great help for wildlife, and a nice thing to do for the community!
Leave Out Bird Food
Wild animals can also need a little help sometimes, especially in the colder months, and they will definitely appreciate a small random gift of kindness. Put up some bird feeders in your garden and fill them with delicious seeds or fat balls and you will quickly be able to spot a range of beautiful little birds outside your window.
These are our suggestions, but I’m sure you have lots of other ideas! A Random Act of Kindness could be to share them on social media and tag us so more people get a chance to spread some happiness this February!
We asked people from the amazing Omlet community to share stories of how their pets helped them find love, or how animals played a big part in some of their most romantic moments. Cuddle up and read these heart-warming stories!
Elisse – VW, USA
I met my husband, Dan, in 2001 while we were both working for FEMA in NYC, on the Disaster Response Operation following the 9/11 terrorist attacks; he was Logistics from HQ, and I was Community Relations from NYC. He came over to my apartment, and, being a US Army Ret. workaholic can-do kinda guy, he decided I needed shelves – and that he was just the man to install them! Dan set out his tools and got to work… and Trapper, my sweet old Yellow Lab, laid down next to him and put his paws over Dan’s tools. It was SO obviously a possessive “he’s mine” move that we both started to laugh- that was one of the many reasons I knew Dan was “the one”: Trapper was not going to let him go!
Trapper always loved me, I’d had him since he was a puppy in 1988, but he ADORED Dan: he’d finally found “his guy”! And Dan loved him back: When we moved to WV in 2002, and Trapper’s back legs started to go from old age, Dan carried him up and down 3 flights of stairs every day… and Trapper would lay out in the sun while Dan worked on our garden, swiveling his head around, as he had to see Dan All The Time… he’d “arf” if he couldn’t see Dan at all times!
Mel – UK
As a child I grew up around animals, and this pushed me into my career as a veterinary nurse. My life is based around my pets, and pet owners put their trust in me every day to keep their 4 legged, feathered, and scaled family members safe.
My valentines love story is about my wedding day, it wouldn’t be the same without animals around me! Upon planning the wedding when I called my local vicar the first thing he asked was ‘I hope your dogs are coming’ of course they were going, but he didn’t release the extend of the animal packed day! I was taken to my wedding by 2 beautiful grey horses pulling us along with my 3 dogs by my side. My dogs walked down the church aisle with my man on honour, and one of them was my ring bearer! I’m so proud that she managed to go all the way down the aisle without stopping to get cuddles from all her favourite guests in the church pews. I was then taken by the horse and carriage to a beautiful barn where my mum surprised me with one of my favourite animals, alpacas!
By the end of the day my dress was black and green where the alpacas had stood on my dress, but I didn’t care, it truly was a magical animal packed day! However I was a little sad my chickens and guinea pigs didn’t get to make an appearance, but I think they were happy enjoying the sun at home!
Lauren – UK
When I first met my now husband he told me he had a cat. Having not had my own place due to being at uni and travelling I was very intrigued as I love animals. I swear blind he told me that she was called Stripe because she had a white stripe from the tip of her nose to the tip of his tail. This wasn’t the case as she was a tabby with no white markings. But it got me intrigued enough to hear more!
When I first went to my now husband’s house for the first time shortly after we met, I sat on the sofa whilst he made a cup of tea in the adjoining kitchen. Whilst he was doing that his cat (Stripe) came and sat on my lap and I was stroking her. When he came back with the tea my husband said that she never does anything like that as she is a very shy cat. So we always say that Stripe chose me as she knew I would love her!
She sadly died in 2020, but we gave her the cat equivalent of a state funeral.
Annette – UK
My cuddly Cupid was my first ever dog called Dooby !! She was a Lakeland Terrier cross with a Jack Russell – and a very picky, feisty dog. When I had a few friends come over to stay, just near Christmas, she decided that night that she would leave my nice warm bed and go and sleep with one of my friends. Her choice!!
His name is Ian and we have now been married for nearly 25 years, and yes, she was at the ceremony. Unfortunately we no longer have her with us in the flesh, but she will always be with us in spirit, having made the best decision of my life for me!!
Mathieu – France
When I met my future wife Céline, she had a 3 year old Yorkie: Nouky. The first time I went to pick her up to go to the cinema, her father opened the door. I politely asked to see Celine, but the dad called Celine’s mother Lyn, pretending I was coming for her… But the little dog, whom I had met the week before, came to cheer me on. I wasn’t in the wrong house! He stayed with us for the next 12 years, always playing ball (excellent goalkeeper) and never tired!
Providing your small pets with enough exercise and activity is extremely important for their mental and physical well-being. An under stimulated rabbit or guinea pig will easily become bored, which can result in unwanted behaviours and a lot of frustration. Luckily, there are things you as an owner can do to encourage movement and introduce more excitement into their lives. Here are some of our top tips:
Provide more space
It might seem obvious, but it’s much easier for a rabbit or guinea pig to get enough exercise if they have plenty of space to move around on. Extend their current run, add new playpens, or set up a room in the house or area of the garden where your pets can securely roam free.
Change things up
New things will excite and stimulate your rabbits and guinea pigs. However, they don’t need a completely new home every month to stay interested. Regularly swapping toys around or changing the setup of their hutch and run by moving accessories to new places will encourage them to explore, stimulating both brain and body!
Get them foraging
Rabbits and guinea pigs instinctively love searching for food. You can help them live out this natural interest by hiding treats in their enclosure, stuffing hay into small nooks or putting leaves, fruit and vegetables in a Caddi Treat Holder. Anything that gets your pets working for the reward of some really good treats is great in terms of activating them!
Level up
Adding guinea pig and rabbit platforms to your enclosure is a great way of utilising all the space available. Guinea pigs will love running down ramps, and rabbits can use their long leg muscles to jump up onto platforms or steps. As if that wasn’t enough, rabbits especially love sitting up high and inspecting their surroundings, so giving them a lookout space is going to be very popular!
Digging opportunities
While it might not apply to the average guinea pig, you will struggle to find a rabbit that doesn’t absolutely love digging. If you don’t want them to ruin the lawn, giving them a designated digging pit is a good idea. A large plant pot or tray with loose soil will be a great start. You can also put some crumpled up newspaper in the bottom for your rabbit to shred.
Get involved with the playing
If your pet is comfortable with it, a great way of activating them is to play together. Get down to their level and give them some time to get used to your presence. Eventually they will likely approach you and you can slowly introduce games and interactive playing. You can bring toys and treats for encouragement, depending on what your pet likes.
Some rabbits and guinea pigs can also be mentally stimulated by learning tricks. We’ve got a blog on how to train your small pet if you think this might be for you!
Teeth exercise
Rabbits’ and guinea pigs’ teeth never stop growing, so to keep them in tip top shape your pets will need something to grind them down with. A constant supply of hay is the most important thing, but you can also give them gnaw toys and pet friendly branches to nibble on.
Give them a space to rest
While it’s important to give your pets enough space and opportunities to move and exercise, it’s just as important to make sure they have places in their home where they can settle down and relax. Being prey animals, they will benefit from having somewhere secluded to return to where they know they will be safe. This could be snuggling down in the bedding of their hutch, or peeking out from a shelter on the run.
Does your cat get in the way when you’re wrapping presents at Christmas? Are you tired of hunching over badly wrapped socks with scotch tape stuck to your fingers? Is your dog snoring in the corner with one eye on the food gift sets?
It’s time to take a break and make some fun DIY pet toys! These four simple toys can easily be made with used wrapping paper cardboard tubes, so you can make great use of the tubes, and keep your pets entertained.
Opting out of wrapping this year? Don’t worry, you can make all these toys with a toilet paper roll or paper towel rolls.
Safety note: Always supervise children with scissors and supervise your pets with these new toys. Give treats in moderation.
Treat dispenser
You will need:
Toilet roll cardboard tubes or a longer wrapping paper tube cut shorter
Your dog or cat’s favorite treats/kibbles
A pencil
Scissors
How to:
Cut into one end of the cardboard tubes, and repeat around the edge of the end of the tube, about 1cm between each cut, and up the tube by about 2cm
Fold the cut pieces into each other and hook together so they hold their position, push your thumb through so the ends point inwards into the tube
Repeat with the other end, but before closing up the tube and pushing inside, fill with your pet’s favorite treats or kibble
Use the pencil to poke holes into the tube, just about big enough for the kibble to fall out of
Give to your pet and encourage them to kick the tube around to release the treats!
Slow-release feeder
You will need:
Toilet paper roll cardboard tubes or a longer wrapping paper tube cut shorter
A small cardboard box
Your dog’s favorite kibble
How to:
If using a cardboard box, cut down the top flaps so it’s a completely open box
Stand up toilet paper roll cardboard tubes in the box. You can cut them into different heights to make it more interesting
Fill the box with your dog’s food
Place the box on the floor and watch as your dog sniffs out their kibble and nudges and removes the tubes to eat
Christmas tree chewer
You will need:
Toilet paper roll cardboard tubes or a longer wrapping paper tube cut shorter
Scissors
How to:
Fold a toilet paper roll tube in half by length (end to end)
Draw a Christmas tree shape on the toilet roll
It’s very important to leave a folded edge uncut by about half a centimeter either side – this will hold the tree together
Once the tree shape is cut, push in the sides so isn’t folded flat, and the tree should stand up
Place in your hamster’s cage or playpen and enjoy!
Treat ball
You will need:
Toilet roll cardboard tubes or cut up a longer wrapping paper tube
Scissors
Treats or kibble
How to:
Cut a toilet roll tube into 5 rings
Place one ring through the other, and a third ring through these 2
Place another ring through a gap, then pop some kibble into the center
Place the final ring through the tiny gap left so it holds its shape
Roll the treat ball on the floor for your cat or dog to kick around to release the treats!
Topology Dog Beds give all dog’s that ‘clean sheet’ feeling.
A recent survey discovered that 22% of dog owners think that the dog bed takes 2 weeks to become unhygienic, yet 23% still leave it a month between washes! No wonder a dog bed is one of the 10 dirtiest spots in the home.
We’re known as a nation of dog lovers, but it has become clear that many owners do not give their dogs the sleeping experience they deserve. In fact, the survey showed that only half of dog owners wash their dog’s bed as frequently as dog and hygiene experts recommend: at least every other week.
The survey found the main reasons people struggle to keep their dog’s bed clean is that it’s time consuming and it leaves their dog without a bed while the cover is being washed and dried.
So how do we make it easier for the owners, and more comfortable and hygienic for the dogs? Enter Omlet’s newest innovation: Topology, the dog bed evolution our pets have been craving!
Topology Dog Beds feature patented, machine washable toppers that easily zip on and off a sturdy and supportive memory foam mattress. This allows owners to quickly swap to a new topper when the dirty one is in the wash. A range of designs from luxurious sheepskin to highly absorbent microfiber and even a beanbag version mean that you can find a topper that suits your dog perfectly, and looks great in your home.
After many days of rigorous play and nights of deep sleep, a worn topper can also be replaced without the need to throw away the rest of the bed. Economical, hygienic and kinder to the environment!
Another exciting feature of the Topology Dog Bed is the possibility to raise the bed with stylish designer feet. Not only does this make the bed blend beautifully in with the rest of your furniture, it also improves airflow around the bed without creating nasty drafts, minimizing dust and debris as well as unwelcome disturbances. Yet another improvement to dog bed hygiene, thanks to Omlet!
Omlet’s Head of Product Design, Simon Nicholls, says: “We wanted to combine all the things dogs and their owners find important into one ultimate dog bed, and what we ended up with was Topology. The combination of the base, the toppers and the feet provides extreme comfort and support, cleanliness and hygiene, and durability. It’s been really nice to see how different dogs tend to go for different toppers and how their favorites match their personalities!”
Meet five pawsome stars from our exciting new video, and find out more about their new favourite dog bed: Topology!
Topology is a super stylish, comfortable and practical bed that both dogs and owners will love! Machine washable toppers zip on and off the supportive memory foam mattress, so that your dog’s bed can easily be kept clean and hygienic. The range of five different toppers also means that you will be able to customise the bed to fit your dog and their personality.
We asked five of the canine characters in the Topology video to tell us which topper was their favourite and why:
Freddie love his Topology Dog Bed with a comfy Beanbag topper
Freddie is a boisterous Dalmatian with bundles of energy! He loves showing off his jumping skills, and will happily throw himself at his bed over and over again to burn off some steam. This isn’t a challenge for the robust fabric and stitching of the Topology Dog Bed, and Freddies favourite topper, the Beanbag, is both fun and super comfortable as it fully lets the dog’s body relax as they lie down on top of it.
It doesn’t happen often, but sometimes even Freddie needs a good, long nap, and as much as the Topology dog bed can withstand his lively playing, it will also provide superb support for his resting body. Thanks to the memory foam layer in the base and the softness of the topper, Freddies owners have no doubt he’s fully relaxed and comfortable when he finally settles in for the night.
Woody could relax for days on his Topology bed with luxurious Sheepskin topper
Even if neither he nor his owner would admit to it, Woody the Goldendoodle is what many would describe as a pampered pooch. He won’t settle for anything but the most luxurious of dog beds after his strolls around the city’s parks, so it’s no surprise that his favourite topper is the sheepskin.
Positioned in the best position in the living room, Woody can stretch out on his Topology Dog Bed and feel the super soft fabric against his skin while the memory foam mattress moulds around his body. Woody’s owner really appreciates how easy it is to remove and clean the topper.
Winston feels safe and supported on his Topology dog bed with Bolster topper
Little Winston is a Dachshund, and only six months old. With all the exciting exploring, learning, playing and chewing shoes he has to do all day, it’s extra important that he has a comfy bed to retreat to when he gets tired.
Winston absolutely loves the bolster topper. Not only does the perfectly padded bolster give his little head support when he snoozes, it also encloses the body to provide a den-like feeling that adds a sense of security.
Margot favours the elegance and extreme comfort of the Quilted topper
Margot is a classy Afghan Hound who appreciates the simple luxuries in life. She loves being comfortable, preferably curling up by the fire after a walk around the town when she enjoys meeting new dogs to sniff.
Margot’s favourite topper is the super soft quilted version. It stays cool against the body in summer and has a warming effect in winter, and the classic design oozes luxury and comfort. Additionally, Margot’s owners love the look of the soft minty grey against the rest of their furniture!
Esme can dry off and relax on the Microfiber topper on her Topology Dog bed
Esme is a perfectly sized terrier mix who loves nothing more than running over wide fields and chasing squirrels between trees on long country walks. Rain and wind won’t stop her – the muddier the better! That’s why the microfiber topper is her favourite. The structured fabric is nice to roll your wet back against, and it will speed up the drying process.
Esme’s owners also love that she’s got a space to dry off after inevitable hose-downs that isn’t the living room carpet! Leftover mud and moisture from walks will quickly and smoothly blend into the microfiber topper, and it can be washed over and over again, allowing for more lovely nature walks.
Ever cleaned your pets’ run and found old bits of moldy cabbage or soggy feed that is nearly impossible to pick out of the grass? There is an easy way of keeping your pets’ treats fresh for longer, while also improving run cleanliness AND keeping your animals entertained!
The Caddi can be hung at any height from all pet runs, trees or other structures in your backyard or garden. It’s super easy to fill with whatever you want to give your pets, be it bits of fruit, or fresh hay.
At the moment you will get 50% off Caddi Treat Holdersfor chickens, rabbits and guinea pigs when you sign up to the Omlet newsletter. Take this opportunity to make your pets’ run funner and more hygienic than ever before!
4 reasons Caddi will improve your pets’ run:
Improves run cleanliness
All pets will be happier if their living quarters are tidy and clean, but it’s also important for their health that both their coop or hutch and run are kept hygienic. Moldy food left on the damp ground can make a chicken, rabbit or guinea pig very ill, so having a Caddi to keep it in will make it much easier for you to spot anything that’s gone off, and to remove it in a second.
Reduces food waste
Food, treats or hay that is left on the ground on the run will go off very quickly, especially at this time of year when temperatures can vary dramatically between day and night and there is likely to be more rainy days. With the Caddi, the treats you leave your pets will keep fresher for longer as they won’t come into contact with the wet ground. They will also be kept dryer thanks to the waterproof top.
Keeps pests away
Sometimes with the change of the season, there will be less food available for wild animals like rodents and small birds, and they are likely to approach your garden and your pets’ home in search for tasty morsels. By putting feed, hay or vegetables in the Caddi rather than scattering on the ground, you are making things more difficult for uninvited visitors!
Yummier tasting treats
As the treats, veg or hay you are giving your pets are kept contained in one place and won’t get stepped on by muddy feet, they will be crunchier, cleaner and better tasting. As the swinging motion of the Caddi offers stimulation and entertainment, your pets will truly enjoy snack-time!
Buy now and get 50% off when you sign up for the Omlet newsletter!
Terms and conditions: This promotion is only valid from 28/09/21 – midnight on 03/10/21. Once you have entered your email address on the website you will receive a discount code that can be used at checkout. By entering your email you agree to receive the Omlet Newsletter. You can unsubscribe at any point. This offer is available on single Caddi Treat Holders only. The offer does not apply to Twin Packs, Twin Pack with Peck Toys or packs with Feldy Chicken Pecker Balls. Excludes all other chicken accessories. Offer is limited to 2 Caddis per household. Subject to availability. Omlet ltd. reserves the right to withdraw the offer at any point. Offer cannot be used on delivery, existing discounts or in conjunction with any other offer.
It’s often hard to tell if a hen is laying. Hens do not produce the same number of eggs each week throughout the year, and there may be health- and environment-related changes to egg production, too.
It’s useful to know when a hen stops laying, as you can then give her a quick health check to identify the cause of the interruption. But how do you tell which chicken is not laying eggs? In a coup of six hens, in which the daily average number of eggs is five, it’s not immediately obvious which hens are laying.
Seven signs that a hen has stopped laying
1. Age. This is the most obvious cause of a drop in egg production. Over her egg-laying years, a hen’s production will tail off. This is natural, and it does not mean the chicken has reached the end of its usefulness. All hens play a part in the social order of a coup, and a bird reaching the end of its egg-laying life will still be as feisty, active and lovable as the younger birds – and she’ll still lay the occasional egg.
2. Moulting. This occurs every year once a hen is 18 months old (although younger birds may shed feathers, too). The signs are very clear – lots of feathers lying in the coop, and bare patches appearing on the hen. During this time, chickens need to produce lots of new feathers, which is a physically demanding process. Consequently, egg-laying is reduced, and sometimes there will be several days without an egg. The moult tends to occur in the autumn, but it depends on when the hen first started laying. Moulting takes 8 to 12 weeks, occasionally longer.
3. Vent. A dry vent – the hole through which the hen lays her eggs – is a sign of no production. In a hen that is still laying, the vent will be moist.
4. Abdomen. Your chicken’s abdomen area should feel soft and rounded. If the area below the breast bone is hard and swollen, this can be a sign of egg peritonitis, a bacterial infection in the chest cavity. Your chicken will still produce a yolk but is free-floating in the abdominal cavity. Affected hens will stop therefore either completely stop laying eggs or only lay soft-shelled, thin, or misshapen eggs.
5. Comb and wattles. A healthy laying hen tends to have bright red comb and wattles. These become duller when she is about to lay, but turn bright red again once she has laid the egg. If the comb and wattles are pale or dull looking all the time, it could be a sign of illness.
6. The food dye test. If you put a small dab of food colouring on a hen’s vent, the colour will be transferred to the egg. The colour that fails to appear tells you who the non-layer is. This is only practical in smaller flocks, though, given the limited palette of food colourings…
7. No eggs. This isn’t as silly as it sounds! If you only have a few hens, and they are different breeds, you will often come to recognise which eggs are produced by which hen. In this case, the sudden disappearance of one particular egg-type will tell you who’s not laying.
Five reasons why hens stop laying eggs
1. Temperature and sunlight. Seasonal factors play a part in egg production. As the daylight hours lessen in autumn and winter, hens tend to lay fewer eggs. In the depths of winter, the low temperature becomes the cause, as a hen needs all her energy to produce body heat. With her resources diverted to this essential function, egg-laying is put on hold.
2. Stress. Any form of stress will tend to interrupt or stop egg production. Stress can be brought on by several things, including parasites, bullying, injuries and fear (of noisy dogs, for example).
3. Diet. Poor diet can impact egg production, too. If a hen is laying, she needs all the essential nutrients – not just calcium – to produce eggs. Top-quality layer’s pellets will contain everything the hen needs. A hen that fills up on treats before filling up on pellets may become malnourished and stop laying. It’s a good idea to let the chickens feed on their pellets first thing in the morning and last thing at night, and only offer corn and treats in the middle of the day.
4. Broodiness. A broody hen – that is, a hen who has decided to sit on her eggs in an attempt to hatch them – will stop laying. There are several ways of discouraging broodiness, but some hen breeds are more prone to it than others. If all attempts to dissuade her from leaving the nesting box, you have the consolation that after 21 days – the time it would take for a fertilised chicken egg to hatch – the hen’s self-inflicted ordeal will be over and she will resume normal life – including egg-laying.
5. Change of routine. If you move the hen house or introduce new birds to the flock, or if one of the hens dies, the birds’ routine and pecking order will be interrupted. This often causes them to stop laying for a short time, until their social lives settle down again.
Four ways to encouraging laying
1. Comfy coop. The first thing to do is to make sure the hens’ environment is adequately equipped and comfortable. Check for red mites, as an infestation of these nocturnal parasites can stop egg production. Reduce drafts and make sure there is no bullying going on – often a sign of an overcrowded hen house.
2. Light. Some chicken keepers install lights in the coop to encourage laying in the colder months of the year. However, bear in mind that a chicken can only lay a finite number of eggs in its lifetime. If she’s naturally programmed to lay 1,000 eggs, encouraging her to lay regularly throughout the winter will simply reduce her laying life.
3. Eggs. If an apparently healthy hen isn’t laying, she can be encouraged by leaving eggs in the nesting box, or placing rubber ones, or even golf balls, in the spot where she is supposed to lay. The sight and feel of these will encourage her laying instincts.
4. Reduce stress. Discourage dogs from disturbing the hens, and make your run and coop are as predator-proof as possible. Equally important, make sure the run isn’t overcrowded, and provide enough roosting space in the coop for all the hens to rest comfortably.
Disappearing eggs
If your hens are free-ranging, they will sometimes lay an egg in a quiet corner of the backyard. This can become habit-forming, and if she’s doing it in secret, you may reach the incorrect conclusion that the hen isn’t laying.
A healthy hen who does not appear to be laying may be the victim of egg sabotage. A predator, a human thief or an egg-eating chicken might be removing the evidence of her labors. The best way of preventing this is to encourage your hen back to the nest box for laying. In crowded coops, a hen will sometimes seek an alternative laying place if the boxes are all full when she feels the urge to lay.
As a hen ages, she will produce fewer eggs. If you are uncertain of the age of your chickens, there is a simple test you can conduct that might sometimes give you a clue. Place your hand gently on a hen’s back. If she immediately squats down, it means she is still fertile and therefore producing eggs. Hens squat when they are mating, and it is an automatic response.
Although egg production drops as a hen ages, it will often continue throughout her life. The occasional egg from an old hen always reminds you what a wonderful friend she’s been throughout your long time together!
If you have done your research and decided that a rabbit is the pet for you, you now have the task ahead of choosing which rabbit breed you would like to get. There are lots of wonderful breeds to choose from, and they all have their own specific features and characteristics. To help you pick the right rabbit for you and your family, we’ve put together a list of things to think about:
Size
Rabbit breeds differ in size, from small Netherland Dwarfs to large Flemish Giants. Smaller breeds tend to be more skittish and nervous, whereas larger rabbits are generally more gentle and less aggressive.
Larger rabbits will naturally need more food, and more space. But don’t think that small rabbits will be fine with limited space, often littler bunnies run around a lot more as they have more energy.
Child-friendly rabbit breeds
While young children should never be given the main responsibility of looking after a rabbit, if you have children in the family it’s good to find a breed that is generally happy to be touched and handled.
A lot comes down to personality, but there are some breeds that are known to get along well with children, like French Lops and Dutch Rabbits.
Reason for getting a rabbit
Think about why you are getting a rabbit, and what is important to you in a pet. Are you happy to just watch them enjoy themselves in the garden, or would you really like to have a rabbit that is sociable and wants to come to you for cuddles? Would you like to breed for your bunny, or show it off in rabbit shows?
Looks
Rabbits come with various fur lengths, colours, ear types and builds. You probably have an idea of what you would like your pet rabbit to look like, but it’s worth exploring a few different breeds to see what’s out there.
It’s important to remember that different breeds require different amounts of grooming and looking after. Long fur, like that of the Angora rabbits, will for example need brushing daily or a few times a week, so you will need to consider if that is something you will be happy to do.
Meet the rabbit in person
While rabbit breeds have characteristic features and temperaments, a lot also comes down to breeding and personality. If possible, try to go and see the breeder or person you are buying your rabbit from, or the center where you’re adopting from.
If your rabbit is still small, watch how they interact with their surroundings and siblings, and if possible, see what the mother is like. Make sure the rabbit doesn’t have any obvious health problems, and try to get a feel for its temperament. If it’s important for you that the rabbit is happy to be picked up, make sure they have been around humans from the start and have regularly been handled.
Read up on specific breeds’ susceptibility to different health problems. Some breeds tend to have a higher risk of developing problems with their jaws, others with joints, or ear mites. With good care the absolute majority of rabbits will be happy and healthy, but it’s a good idea to research problems in order to prevent them.
The expected lifespan also differs somewhat between breeds. The majority of rabbits live between 5-8 years, but some breeds are known to often live for over 10 years. This is obviously a bigger commitment, so it’s worth thinking about.
Consider these things when choosing a pet rabbit. If you know what you want, here are some of our suggestions:
You want a gentle family bunny that is good with children
Your chickens’ coop should be a space for your flock to eat, drink, lay eggs, and sleep. It should also be a place for your chickens to feel safe and be protected from the outside elements or any danger. However, sometimes chickens may suddenly decide that they do not want to go into their coop at night, which can be for a number of reasons. Here are some explanations as to why this could be happening.
A Broody Hen
Hens can get broody, regardless of if you have a rooster. Although many hens will decide to stay in the nest of their coop so that they can sit on their eggs, others like to search for a quiet space away from the coop, which can mean remaining outside the coop all night.
Moving a broody hen can be highly stressful for them, so should you decide that it’s best to move your hen inside the coop, due to safety concerns, you need to take great care when doing so. One way to start is by collecting your hen’s eggs regularly (twice a day). Be sure to wear leather gloves when doing so, as a broody hen is likely to be aggressive around you as they are very protective of their eggs. You’ll also want to reduce the light supply when you move her, as the moving process situation will be less traumatic in the dark.
Predators
Predators such as foxes, cats, rats, and badgers could be one reason as to why your chickens have stopped going inside the coop at night. These animals will spook your flock, with smaller predators such as badgers having the potential to gain access inside the coop by climbing over the fencing, or squeezing through small openings in the coop’s wiring.
Luckily, there are a few steps you can take to deter these animals and have your chickens back in their coop every night. One option is to get a motion sensitive light installed, which will scare off any unwanted guests. Alternatively, take a look at the Omlet chicken coop range. All of the Omlet coops are predator resistant, which will reassure you that your chickens will be safe from any night time visitors. With anti-tunnel skirts that lie flat on the ground, and heavy duty steel weld mesh, these features will help to prevent animals from digging in. You can also purchase the Omlet automatic coop door which shuts your chickens away in their coop at night to keep your flock secure, enclosing them until the time you set for the door to open in the morning.
An Overcrowded Coop
Chickens need their own personal space, hence why many chickens are also kept free range. Not only is overcrowding an unpleasant experience for chickens, causing them to avoid the coop at night, it can also lead to further complications such as the build up of ammonia and an increase in disease. The solution? The more space the better! For size reference, the Omlet Large Eglu Cube chicken coop can comfortably accommodate six large hens or up to ten bantams.
Tensions Amongst Your Chickens
Unfortunately, bullying amongst chickens happens, and isn’t actually too uncommon of a problem. Chickens naturally create a pecking order, whereby the flock will establish themselves in a social hierarchy of strongest to weakest chicken. However, if aggressive behaviour continues after the head rooster, or the dominant hen in their absence, has found their way to the top of the ladder, you may be dealing with a bully. Common signs are missing feathers from a chicken’s back, unusual weight loss, reduced egg production, or blood from where the victim has been pecked, all of which could lead to a chicken/s refusing to go into their coop at night.
To stop the bullying, and therefore get your chickens back in their coop at night, first try to establish the cause. Common reasons for bullying can be an injured or ill bird, having a large flock, or your chickens being bored. However, should the bullying continue after attempting to resolve what you believe to be the cause of conflict, you can purchase anti-pecking spray, which will discourage feather pecking. Alternatively, separate the bully from the flock. Isolating the bully for a week may mean that they lose their dominant position in the hierarchy once they are reintroduced.
Mites and Parasites in the Coop
Pests are a very common cause for chickens to have stopped going to their coop at night. Red mite in particular is a likely culprit, a parasitic mite that lives inside chicken housing and lays eggs in cracks near nests. They can make your chickens restless at night, as they live inside chicken coops and crawl onto the chickens to feed on their blood as they sleep. Only active during warmer weather, red mites are also more likely to strike wooden coops.
Red mites are not the easiest thing to get rid of, however, one solution is to purchase red mite treatment, which works by immobilising pests with its sticky consistency. Rest assured, it’s also completely safe to use in the chicken feeding area, so you do not have to have any concerns about your flock digesting the product.
Luckily, chickens are creatures of habit, so once you’ve identified the cause, you should be able to get your flock back into the coop at night in no time!
Despite many cats enjoying being independent creatures, according to the PDSA PAW Report,43% of cats in the UK now live in multi cat households. Whilst it’s understandable why so many of us give in to the temptation of introducing another feline friend into the home, it’s also important to be cautious of the potential onset of cat behavioural issues such as aggressive behaviour i.e. hissing, growling, or chasing as a result of doing so, and to consider if the dynamic of a multi cat household would work for you and your family. However, if you do decide to take the plunge, here are some tips on how you can try and keep the peace.
Plenty of Exercise
Providing your cats with plenty of exercise will help to keep them at a healthy weight and keep them stimulated. Both are important for all cat owners, even those who only have one cat. However, for cats who live amongst other cats, keeping active can aid with avoiding a potential build up of excess energy, which can sometimes manifest itself as aggression towards other cats in the household.
One way to help keep your cats exercised is through play, which will also help to strengthen the bond between you and your furry friend. A great way of exercising your pets is to invest in acat tree. Cats love climbing and scratching, so a cat tree is one sure way to encourage this and keep them entertained.
Use Pheromone Diffusers
Pheromone diffusers are an odourless plug-in product that works by producing pheromones, or chemical substances, that your cat naturally releases when they either rub against surfaces, scratch at items, bump heads with humans or other cats, or spray. Pheromone products mimic how pheromones would naturally send messages between cats, meaning that they can help in multi cat households to have your cats to feel more relaxed, and reduce their stress levels.
Multiple Litter Boxes
It’s important that your cats have their own litter box when they live with other cats. This is because of their territorial nature, which often means that cats like to ‘claim’ where they go to the bathroom and do not like this area to be shared. If cats feel as though their territory is under threat, this can lead to aggressive behaviour such as fighting.
Furthermore, most cats will refuse to use a dirty litter box, which will likely happen should you only provide a single litter box for several cats, as of course, their waste will accumulate more quickly than if your cats were to have their own. The general rule of thumb is that you should have one litter box per cat, plus one spare to have placed out in your home.
Separate Feeding Stations
Cats like to be alone when they’re eating, meaning that if you have multiple cats, they will require separate feeding stations at mealtimes. When cats are forced to share the same area for feeding time with another cat, it can take away from their predatory instinct to hunt and eat by themselves, which inevitably can induce anxiety and aggressive behaviour. In a multiple cat home, cats may see a shared feeding area as an opportunity to compete for food, which could result in you having a ‘food bully’ on your hands. As well as providing your cats with their own food bowls, give them each a designated space in the home to eat any from any other cats.
Furthermore, creating this divide will help your cats to stay healthy by having them fed equally, or in accordance to their own specific dietary needs, as it ensures one cat cannot access the other’s food. For example, factors such as the age, weight, or medical condition of your cat/s may mean that they have to be fed different diets. Therefore, it’s fundamental that you leave each cat’s bowl out of reach from any potential cat food thieves!
Personal Space
By nature, many cats need their own personal space, even when they’re not eating. It’s a good idea to have an area in the home that they can go to escape to by themselves, away from both humans and other animals. If you have the room, it’s advisable that each of your pets have at least one of their own private areas in the home that they can go to without being disturbed and becoming overwhelmed. This may even be a cardboard box if you’re limited for space, but be sure this is away from the hustle and bustle of the home or outside.
Introducing a new cat can be a difficult time for you and your already existing pet, but fortunately, it’s not impossible to make multi cat households work. So after a bit of advice, hopefully the transition period will be a lot easier. However, should you notice any signs of aggression between your cats, it’s important to seek help from a veterinarian before these issues get out of control.
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Unfortunately, bullying amongst chickens happens, and isn’t actually too uncommon of a problem. Chickens naturally create a pecking order, whereby the flock will establish themselves in a social hierarchy of strongest to weakest chicken. However, if aggressive behaviour continues after the head rooster, or the dominant hen in their absence, has found their way to the top of the ladder, you may be dealing with a bully. Common signs are missing feathers from a chicken’s back, unusual weight loss, reduced egg production, or blood from where the victim has been pecked, all of which could lead to a chicken/s refusing to go into their coop at night.
