how to give your cat (+ yourself) a magical summer

summer officially started two weeks ago. that means it’s time to kick-start the plans you’ve been putting off and the activities that light your heart up. and of course, your cat is invited (they deserve a fun summer too!).

bring in the cooling treats

hot weather = a desperate need for ice cream. or in your cat’s case, a frozen purée pop. there’s really nothing more magical than relaxing in the sun with an icy treat. 

cooling treat ideas for your cat:

1. add an ice cube to their water bowl (they will find this fascinating)

2. top off meals with a digestive benefit booster. the extra hydration can help regulate body temperature

3. hand-feed a tube treat. not only is this good bonding, but it also provides more moisture!

4. make a frozen pop. you can do this with wet food, purée treats, or meal toppers. 

   1. add the food into a silicone mold OR create a fun design on a sheet of parchment paper

   2. place in the freezer for 20-60 min. it really depends on the food/how much you use

   3. give to your cat! feel free to let it thaw on a plate if they get tired

look at these star pops!

made from chill out tube treats and freeze-dried chicken treats

cooling treat ideas for you:

1. a fresh fruit smoothie, best enjoyed outside or by an open window 

2. ice cream, of course. particularly magical walking around after dinner when the sun is just setting

3. a blended frozen mocktail or cocktail. sipped slowly by the poolside (or on your couch)

4. fresh juice at brunch, whether you’re having a solo date or catching up with friends. 

add in some summer self care

it’s time to glow up. not in the toxic and superficial way, but in a gentle take-care-of-your-mind-and-energy way. 

your cat probably thinks they're perfect as they are (true), but a little self care never hurts. if they want a good fur day everyday, these lickable purée treats are perfect for them. (hint: they’re enriched with salmon oil, collagen, and omega-3s to help nourish skin and keep their coat looking glossy). 

as for you: take stock of what nourishes you, and what’s draining your energy. do you need to wake up slowly? or maybe get moving right away? how are your wellness and health routines going?

gently note what’s working and what may need some adjustment. a great summer is one where you feel balanced and energized.

novelty! play! exploration!

treat your cat to a new experience this summer. if they’re harness trained, you can bring them to a secure area (i.e. backyard) and hangout in the shade. cats are infamous escape artists, so just make sure they’re leashed and safely attached to a solid structure. 

a cat stroller would be a fun thing to try, too! just take the necessary precautions to keep them close to you.

if going outside isn’t in the cards, you can shower your cat with some new treats, or perhaps a new toy/scratcher. they may not understand the occasion, but they’re sure to appreciate it. 

what about you? well there are endless activities and events you can experience. 

• try a new cafe and bring a journal. record detailed thoughts about your drink order like you’re a food critic

• go to the beach at night with friends

• step outside your comfort zone! go to that event you’re slightly nervous about. bring your safe person if you need some extra support

• write a bucket list of anything and everything you want to do, no matter how "unrealistic". you never know what could go right. . .

this summer can be what you want it to be

this time is yours. if you’re feeling the pressure to make this summer super extraordinary, take a deep breath. the feeling of magic is unique to each person, and you can cultivate it in so many ways. 

good luck, and stay cool! 

oh, and pet your cat for me.