If there's a dog or cat living in your house, you probably already know that pet parenthood comes down to more than just having the basics. Our little best friends are always dreaming up ways to throw curveballs at us, from randomly deciding their regular dinner smells unappetizing today to rolling in something stinky and then jumping in your bed. So pet parents listen up: These 11 products are pinch hitters. They're the essential — but sometimes overlooked — products that come in clutch just when you need them. They're the go-tos you should always have in your hall closet (and car and purse and every room of the house, perhaps) for when the moment arises.
For Dogs & Cats: A Meal Topper
Stella & Chewy's Marie's Magical Dinner Dust For Dogs ($23)
Picky pets, rejoice: Marie's Magical Dinner Dust is here to make mealtime extra special. For pups, just sprinkle some of this magic "dust," made from freeze-dried raw ingredients, on the top of their regularly scheduled kibble or wet food and wait for the happy toe taps to begin. For kitties, try the Stella & Chewy's Marie's Magical Dinner Dust For Cats ($25) with an added dash of wild-caught salmon.
For Dogs: A Hands-Free Leash
Wild One Hands-Free Rope Leash ($58)
For the moments you need to take that last-minute work call or answer an urgent email but you've already set out on your walk, a hands-free leash is essential. This also applies for the times you're carrying your phone, water bottle, iced coffee, treat bag, etc. etc.
For Dogs & Cats: An Odor Eliminator
Angry Orange Pet Odor Eliminator ($23)
No matter where your pet is on their training journey, there are going to be some accidents — and there's nothing worse than a lingering smell of urine on your couch or rug. This odor eliminator has over 75,000 positive reviews on Amazon to attest to its effectiveness.
For Dogs & Cats: Grooming Wipes
Earthbath Hypo-Allergenic Fragrance-Free Cat & Dog Grooming Wipes ($17)
Grooming wipes can come in handy for a number of situations. Did your long-haired dog roll in something unmentionable while out at the park? Did your kitty track some soiled litter on their paws through the house? Wipes to the rescue.
For Dogs: Training Treats
Stella & Chewy's Beef Heart Dog Treats ($15)
Training treats made with simple, natural ingredients are a must for training sessions and rewarding good behavior, especially since you're likely going to be giving them a lot throughout the day. These protein-packed beef heart treats are perfect for packing up in a treat holder for a bite-sized reward. Plus, they're a great way to introduce your dog to a raw diet.
For Cats: Calming Spray
Feliway Classic Calming Spray for Cats ($25)
If you have a kitty who hates to travel or gets anxious in new situations, this calming spray may be a game changer. The scent mimics a mother's pheromones to calm cats down and can help reduce stress symptoms like scratching and spraying. Keep it in the car for when you need to go to vet visits or use it in the house.
For Dogs & Cats: Paw Trimmer
Leyoufu Cordless Trimmer ($18)
This may sound silly, but trimming the fur in between your dog's toe beans will make a huge difference for their quality of life. This hair can get lots of things stuck to it, causing infections or discomfort. Plus, they'll have much better traction on slippery surfaces when this hair is shaved down. This trimmer can also come in handy for your long-haired cat.
For Cats: Organic Catnip
If you have a playful or curious kitty at home and you need a little alone time (think: when you're having guests over for dinner and don't want your cat crawling all over them), just sprinkle some of this catnip on some of their toys, their bed, or their cat tower and let them go to town. The mix of leaf and flower tops promote relaxation, so your kitty can enjoy some playtime.
For Cats: Fishy Treats
MeowFulls Whitefish and Salmon Cat Treats ($9)
These freeze-dried raw treats are perfect for rewarding kitties for good behavior — and they're more than just tasty bites. The salmon oil in the formula will help your cat's coat stay lustrous and their skin free of itchy spots, and probiotics support their digestive health. After one bite they'll be meowing for more.
For Dogs: Meal Mixers
Stella & Chewy's Perfectly Puppy Beef & Salmon Meal Mixers ($45)
Meal Mixers are a great, versatile way to add or introduce raw to your puppy's diet. Mix dry pieces in or add some water to rehydrate it and add to your dog's normal food for a tasty, nutrient-rich option. Raw food like Stella & Chewy's can help support your dog's digestion, teeth and gums, coat and skin, and add nutrients for overall health.
For Pet Parents: A Super-Effective Hair Remover
Chom Chom Roller Pet Hair Remover ($20)
Real reviews from pet parents can confirm that this roller is life-changing. It's reusable, works better than a regular lint roller, and works on a number of different surfaces. Use it on your sheets, couch, rug — really whatever surface in your home that is collecting tufts.
