More on pets
None of this is expert advice. It's what people worked out for themselves, usually the hard way — what actually helped, and what they'd tell someone standing where you are. Take what fits and leave the rest.
If you only read a few
Offer a special snack or plaything each time you exit the home.
This links your departure with rewards and may help shift their focus away from watching you go.
- Some dogs ignore the treat until the owner is gone.
- It may not stop crying or howling while away.
3 people, independently
Slowly blink at your cat when you make eye contact to signal that you are not a threat.
It communicates comfort and lack of danger through simulated sleepiness.
- Does not work on all cats.
- Works better with cats that already know you.
10 people, independently
Place slightly used clothing with your scent in a pet's bed or cage to calm them when you are away.
The lingering scent helps calm them down and associates your smell with a safe place.
3 people, independently
Place double-sided sticky tape or packing tape face-up on counter edges and access points to deter cats.
The sticky texture gets stuck to the cat, causing them to hate the place.
3 people, independently
Avoid staring directly into a cat's eyes.
Prolonged eye contact is perceived as aggression, a challenge, or a sign of distrust, which can cause stress or lead to scratching/biting.
- Some cats do not mind being stared at while receiving scratches.
4 people, independently
Gradually acclimate pets to car rides by taking short trips around town, such as to drive-thrus or for small errands, using many treats.
This helps them get used to the car and reduces stress during longer journeys.
3 people, independently
Use a shallower or wider water dish to prevent whisker irritation if your cat is not drinking enough.
Sensitive whiskers may be irritated by touching the sides of narrow or deep dishes.
- Some sources suggest cats dislike getting their whiskers wet rather than irritated by the dish shape.
3 people, independently
Condition animals to link a distinct noise, like shaking a container, with getting snacks so they return when called.
6 people, independently
Update your contact information in the microchip registry whenever you move or change phone numbers.
10 people, independently
- Register your pet's microchip with multiple registries for redundancy.3
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Be aware that putting out food or litter may attract raccoons, neighborhood cats, or other animals rather than just your lost pet.
3 people, independently
Sometimes put treats inside the crate or carrier so the pet associates the space with positive experiences.
3 people, independently