iOVO Designs: Litterfish Concept- Pin It Up

As a (feline) pet owner, one of my greatest struggles is keeping the balance between fur-mother and zookeeper. This is especially true when it comes to animal waste, and the infamous 'litter box'. Some may already know that Ms. Truffles was trained to use the (human) toilet when she was just a kitten. This is a practice she kept for several months, until she one day decided that she didn't like the way the toilet water splashed back up, upon making a deposit, and began leaving gifts for me in the (waterless) sink. At least she got the bowl part right....

Re-toilet training Truffles was once an option, but has now left the picture with the addition of (adult) Frankie, who is terrified of our Drinkwell (pet water fountain), let alone the toilet. Our humble condo has an impressive 3 litter boxes, for 2 cats. My favorite, of which, is an ingenious piece of furniture that actually hides the litter-box in a cabinet like setting. It's stylish and functional, but it doesn't compare to iOVO Designs' newest pet concept; Litterfish.

This 21st Century litterbox is sure to be what all the 'cool' cats are talking about in a few months. With bold White an (classic) Orange fish color options, this almost comical over-sized fish gives the impression your cat is being eaten, in fun juxtaposition. Not only does it double as trendy modern decor (great for dorms, pet lovers, or the just plain kitschy- like myself), Litterfish has an entirely removable top that makes cleaning and changing litter a breeze. Having a private 'toilet' space for your cat/s is an integral part of fostering independence and good restroom habits. I also love that this enclosed litter box structure will 'catch' all of the sand our larger cat, Frankie, tends to dig over the sides of shallow (lone) boxes. My only worry is that one, or both, might think it so cool and private, they'll want to hang out in there all day- Thankfully Litterfish can always be converted to a posh Pet Bed.

Want to see a Litterfish in your home, or a home near you? iOVO is trying to raise 1000 pledges, before they can go into production. Mass production means molds and expensive materials costs, so the Litterfish can, unfortunately, not be made without backing from pet lovers like you and I. How do you help? If you can't quite commit to the discounted $159 pre-order pledge (which will guarantee you a unit upon production), help spread the word. The best way is to simply Pinterest the promo images! The more who see this ingenious design, the more interest it will generate!

As Required By The FTC: I received no compensation for sharing this product concept. I am merely a supporter trying to raise awareness for a start-up I believe in.

On New Family Members and Equal Attention

Adding a new member to your family can cause a lot of turmoil to those lest intended, your existing family members. Unlike children, who for the most part we can explain a new arrival to, pets can easily feel replaced or unloved. I covered this a little in our guide on Introducing a New Pet Member. Having just brought a new puppy, Nora, into our family I am constantly reminding myself that, while a puppy does require more care and maintenance than an adult animal, it's easy for existing family members to feel replaced or left out. The new pet has no expectations for attention, or even belonging and territory; it will not feel left out, or replaced, or even intruded upon- but your other pets just may.

Of course, it's hard to be discerning when it comes to Mom's (my) attention, and affection; but I try to ensure I give everyone a fair amount of time each day. Sure, the puppy is just plain adorable, but Truffles and I have been through thick and thin, and Frankie is a part of this family too. Neglecting them for Nora would be like tossing aside an old 'toy'- only pets aren't toys, they're family members! The last thing I want while house training a new puppy is to have either of our cats become ill or distant due to animosity or depression. Introducing Nora has gone much smoother since the lessons I learned the firs time around, with Frankie. I've made sure each family member has a designated 'safe' and personal place to retreat to. The dog has the least 'ground' to roam (which also makes sense on the front of house training), and nobody shares food or treats. In fact, when it is play time, or food time, for one, they have my undivided attention.

Another great tool are long term toys- consider these chewies and even bones, for dogs. Believe it or not, Kong has a complete line of long term toys for cats. Toys designed to keep your animal engaged for hours (and longer if they are treat motivated). Recently I bought a Kitty Kong, which turned out to be one of their 'old' models, made from a thin plastic much different than the rubber base we often associate with the brand. I was happy to see Truffles take to it, but she had it broken and cracked after one afternoon! Of course I promptly waltzed back into our local pet store and exchanged the broken one for a kitty Kong that was made of similar 'classic' Kong rubber. This came with a salmon flavored paste Truffles instantly went crazy for. Needless to say, this has helped her feel spoiled, and kept her busy many afternoons when I am grooming or training the puppy!

Wild Wednesdays: Nora

Send your pet pics to thect@timeouttruffles.com to be featured here next week!