7 popular plants that are dangerous for cats

7 popular plants that are dangerous for cats

Many people decorate their homes with indoor plants. But if you are a cat parent, your plant obsession can inadvertently harm your feline friend. Most plants are safe for cats to play and prod, but a few are dangerous. Eating or coming into contact with them can lead to unexpected consequences, mainly because of their poisonous compounds. Below we have listed seven such toxic plants that you must keep out of your cat’s reach: Azaleas A part of the rhododendron family, Azaleas are one of the most beautiful houseplants that can transform your living space. However, the slightest nibbles out of their leaves can cause serious heart problems in your cat. It can sometimes aggravate into a coma and even be fatal. Milder side effects of rhododendron ingestion include vomiting, weakness, diarrhea, drooling, and a lack of apatite. Hydrangeas Hydrangeas are common in flower arrangements in home gardens. Although the plant is toxic to cats because of its chemical content, it is not as dangerous. Only ingesting a large amount of the plant can cause damage. Nevertheless, they pose a threat, so avoid having them around your pets. If you grow hydrangeas in your garden, ensure your cat never wanders near it and keeps a safe distance. Ingestion of the flowers and leaves can lead to vomiting, stomach pain, and weakness. Hyacinths The criteria for selecting plants for your home should be based on more than just their pretty looks. Despite being absolutely beautiful and fragrant, hyacinths remain poisonous to cats. The bulbs of their flowers are full of toxins that can lead to numerous complications if ingested. The symptoms are usually manageable if your cat has nibbled off just a tiny bit. But excessive intake, whether accidental or intentional, can be fatal. Therefore, you must get timely help if you think your cat has been munching on the hyacinth plant.
6 Smart Ways to Enhance One’s Google Pixel Experience

6 Smart Ways to Enhance One’s Google Pixel Experience

A stunning display, built-in Google apps, and Google AI for 24×7 assistance are some reasons that make users switch to Google Pixel phones. However, Google Pixel is not limited to these primary aspects; it opens up a world of possibilities facilitated by a host of useful software features. Navigating a Google Pixel phone is all about understanding its hidden features and tools. Here are six incredible ways to make one’s Google Pixel experience better. Enable the “Smart Storage” option The internal storage of smartphones is typically limited, causing a shortage of space after a certain period of usage. Photos and videos take up the maximum space on these devices. On the bright side, these items may be deleted from internal storage if one’s automatic syncing option to Google Photos is enabled on Google Pixel phones. Google Pixel allows users to prevent the accumulation of these items in the phone’s internal storage using an automated feature. One may enable this feature through the Files app on the phone by activating “Smart Storage” in its settings. When this option is activated, copies of photos or videos already backed up to Google Photos will be automatically deleted, clearing up the phone’s internal storage. Color-coordinate the home screen icons with the wallpaper All smartphones of Android 12 and above allow users to color-coordinate their home screen icons with the wallpapers they choose. Google Pixel users may complete this process by pressing and holding any blank space on their home screens, selecting “Wallpaper and Style,” and activating the toggle corresponding to the “Themed Icons” options. And voila! All the home screen icons become color-coordinated with the wallpaper’s theme. Enable the option to detect car crashes Google Pixel’s Personal Safety app comes to the rescue in case of car crashes, when the concerned authorities need to be alerted.
7 common pest control mistakes to avoid

7 common pest control mistakes to avoid

For homes with a yard or any outdoor space, dealing with unwanted pests is a constant battle. Further, homes that have pets need to watch out for pest invasions that may occur through their beloved pet. While it can be handy to use tricks or hacks as quick-fix solutions, these may sometimes prolong the infestation or make it more severe. So, always call in a professional and avoid some common pest control mistakes. Underestimating the severity of the infestation While trying to figure out the extent of the infestation, many people often make the mistake of assuming that it is not as serious as it looks. On the contrary, the infestation might be more severe than it appears on the surface. When it comes to pests and bugs, it is best to assume the worst. This is because most pests, such as ants, rats, and termites, are skillful in hiding. So, if one has observed a couple of these around the house, it is a sign that a significant number of them are hiding in some hole or nook in the house. They will end up causing extreme damage even before the homeowner figures out that there is an infestation. Making delay in taking action Another common mistake many homeowners make is waiting around to take some action against the infestation. Insects, bugs, and pests can multiply at a rapid pace, and the situation can get out of hand quite quickly. Therefore, it is best to take immediate action before the infestation becomes difficult to control. Take some immediate pest control measures as soon as the first signs of the pests are observed. Call in professionals to ensure immediate intervention so that there is minimal damage. Using DIY pest control solutions Many people often make solutions and sprays at home with stuff in their pantry and cleaning supplies to get rid of pests.
5 popular vacuum cleaners to choose from

5 popular vacuum cleaners to choose from

A vacuum cleaner is a great companion since it makes home or office cleaning efficient. But, buying the right one is not easy with multiple choices in the market. So, if you understand various factors such as the need, convenience, area and nature of your residence, product features, etc., it’ll help heaps. You will make a cost-effective purchase, one that’ll sustain for long. Here is a list of the most popular vacuums in the country: Upright vacuum cleaner from Shark APEX  This one is a must as it is one of the best bagless cleaners that can clean carpets and floors with equal effectiveness. Also, it is sealed, implying that the dust retention power is better. Although, the sound levels are pretty low, but even in the absence of the bag, its capacity to filter out small particles is exceptional. The added advantage of this model is its easy-to-convert feature in a canister. This feature, along with its 30ft long cord, helps the cleaner reach out to shady nooks and corners, below the furniture, and other tricky spots or crevices. You will also love that the HEPA filter is washable, which means you have less stress of replacing it regularly. More so, it comes with a brush roll best suited for untangling your pet’s messy hair. Best features:   Washable HEPA Filter Upright-to-canister conversion with a button   Pet hair mess up can be cleaned with the brush roll   Lightweight at 16 lbs.   LG’s CordZero Jet 90 Stick Vacuum   This LG cordless stick appliance is empowered with a range of productivity tools that makes life immensely easy. Its sleek contours and additional battery stash make it handy and purposeful.  This device is a vacuum cleaner plus a power mop. It has two pads that can be dipped in water for a wet mop.
Top 5 foods for puppies

Top 5 foods for puppies

Pets require specially curated foods during their growing stage. Formula foods created for specific breeds target their growth hormones. They are induced with great nutritional value to provide pups with high energy levels. As puppies exert maximum strength in their growing years, they need enough calories to support their energy levels. The formulated pet foods are readily available online and at retail stores. Here is a list of top-rated foods that are ideal for growing puppies: Royal Canin This pet food brand is popular among pet parents and vets alike. The brand is known for creating tailored nutrition for cats and dogs. Royal Canin has strategically crafted its formulas among pets depending on their size, age, breed, and whether it’s an indoor or an outdoor pet. They offer an extensive range of foods for growing puppies that ensure they get the right nutrition to support their growth and development. Royal Canin categorizes its food for puppies in different size variants, including X-small, Mini, Medium, Maxi, and Giant. Natural Balance This brand works with limited ingredients to ensure the best selection and nutrient-rich recipes. Their selective range of nutrients includes one source of animal protein, plant-based proteins, and selected carbohydrates to provide the pets with essential nutrients and growth hormones. Their single-source animal meat selection includes bison or duck, and omega-rich salmon. Natural Balance excels at providing a variety of wet and dry food recipes crafted with balanced nutrition and no added fillers. Their food is categorized into Life Stages – Adult, Puppy, and All Life Stages. Some of their popular recipes from their puppy range include Chicken & Brown Rice, Lamb & Brown Rice, and Reserved Grain Free Duck & Potato. Nutro The brand’s philosophy is to use clean ingredients and craft recipes made with natural, recognizable non-GMO ingredients. The brand uses nutrient-rich foods; every single ingredient is selected to provide essential growth proteins and nutrients.
6 Dyson Vacuum Cleaner Offers Expected on Black Friday 2023

6 Dyson Vacuum Cleaner Offers Expected on Black Friday 2023

Dyson is a well-known brand for home appliances and smart gadgets. Some popular products include vacuum cleaners, air purifiers, fans, hair styling tools, and more. Among these products, vacuum cleaners are popular among consumers as they are packed with top-notch features that leave every room squeaky clean. One can choose from various options, including handheld, cordless, or robot cleaners. Here are some ongoing deals. Shoppers can expect similar deals this upcoming Black Friday. Amazon 1. The Dyson V15 Detect Cordless Vacuum Cleaner is currently priced at $597, a 20% discount from its original price of $749. This product comes with a special feature like laser illumination, which reveals microscopic dust on hard floors and helps clean them. The smart suction and run time on this vacuum make it a great pick for most shoppers. Additionally, the device comes with two advanced cleaner heads made for deep cleaning, especially for homes with pets. 2. Another popular product on a limited-time deal includes the Dyson Gen5detect cordless vacuum cleaner, which is priced at $824 (original price is $949). The HEPA filters are highly effective as they are created to remove 99% of the microns that pass through the vacuum. The product comes with a fluffy optic cleaner head, hair screw tool, built-in dusting and crevice tool, wall dok, combination tool, digital motorbar cleaner head and also a charger. The vacuum cleaner also comes with a two-year warranty, making it convenient for users regarding any servicing needs requiring repair or replacement. Dyson 3.Dyson is currently offering some deals on select products on its official website. One of the popular products, the Dyson Gen5detect absolute, is available for $849 (a $100 discount). The original price of the product is $949. It comes with a two-year warranty and features like advanced suction, HEPA filtration, dust detention, and scientific proof on screen.
6 household plants that are toxic to dogs

6 household plants that are toxic to dogs

As a pet parent, you probably pet-proofed your home before getting a dog or a cat. You ensure that the animals have no access to the chocolates, the antifreeze, the repellents, and even put all the hazardous toys out of their reach. But, most of us forget about plants. Read on to know how those seemingly safe and aesthetic potted plants in your home or yard can be toxic for your pet dog: 6 household plants to keep way from your dogs Sago palm The sago palm plant is a very common sight in households worldwide. Its leafy green aesthetic makes it the perfect addition to your indoor plant collection. It is also effortless to care for, making it a popular plant choice for homes. But, you may want to remove it or steer clear of it if you have a dog. This is simply because sago palm is toxic to dogs. It contains an element known as cycasin, which, if consumed, can lead to a wide range of symptoms or be fatal. If your dog has ingested this plant, you may note symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, tremors, loss of balance, and even seizures. In worse cases, consuming the sago palm plant can also lead to liver failure or death. Note that every part of this plant is toxic to dogs. Aloe vera The gel found in the aloe vera plant leaves has tons of health properties and works wonders for the skin. Not to mention, it is very low maintenance, which makes them the perfect choice for both indoor and outdoor decoration. But, what many do not know is aloe vera is toxic to dogs. The gel in the plant contains two toxic components: saponins and anthraquinones. These can prove harmful to your pet if ingested. Typical signs of aloe vera ingestion in dogs include vomiting, diarrhea, upset stomach, and lethargy.
Muscular dystrophy – Signs and management options

Muscular dystrophy – Signs and management options

Muscular dystrophy is a group of genetic muscle disorders that cause the progressive weakening and degeneration of muscle tissue. These conditions can affect people of all ages and cause various degrees of muscle weakness and disability. Early detection and subsequent treatments can significantly improve the quality of life for those affected. Here are some early warning signs of muscular dystrophy and treatment options. Muscle weakness Muscle weakness is often one of the earliest signs of muscular dystrophy. Muscular dystrophy is characterized by the deterioration of muscle fibers, making them less capable of contracting and generating force. As muscle fibers weaken and die, muscle strength diminishes. Affected individuals may experience difficulty performing simple tasks like lifting objects, climbing stairs, or getting up from a seated position. This weakness typically begins in the muscles closest to the trunk of the body and gradually spreads to other muscle groups. Frequent falls Muscle weakness can affect the stability and coordination required to maintain balance. As the muscles weaken, the ability to react quickly to changes in posture or movement diminishes, leading to an increased risk of falls. Children with muscular dystrophy may tend to fall more often than their peers, especially when running or participating in physical activities. This is often attributed to muscle weakness and poor coordination, making maintaining balance challenging. Delayed motor milestones In infants and young children, delays in achieving milestones in basic motor skills such as crawling, sitting, and walking may signal the presence of muscular dystrophy. Children with this condition may take longer to reach these developmental milestones compared to their peers. Since muscular dystrophy affects the muscles needed for basic motor skills, there may be delays in the development of these essential movements. Difficulty standing from a sitting position Individuals with muscular dystrophy often struggle with standing up from a seated position without assistance.
Check out these 50 Cyber Monday 2022 sales

Check out these 50 Cyber Monday 2022 sales

Cyber Monday is the last major sales event of the year. There are tons of deals and discounts offered on highly sought-after products, and this makes it an important day for holiday shoppers. Whether you want to shop for your loved ones or buy a few items for yourself, you should be able to determine what will be on offer this year by reading our list of the top offers of last year. Asos Asos offered discounts on all wardrobe-essentials. Last year Asos offered up to 70% off on all big brands during the Cyber Monday sale. It is time to head over to any Asos outlet for exciting deals. Everlane Everlane is one of the best shopping destinations this holiday season. Beat the holiday rush and shop for men’s and women’s clothes, shoes, and more. You can expect to save up to 40 percent on items across all categories. Bed Bath & Beyond Check out Bed Bath & Beyond’s deals and enjoy incredible savings on everything from bedding, kitchen, bath, home décor, and more. Last year, shoppers received 30 percent off select indoor and outdoor Christmas décor. Etsy Shop on Etsy and expect to save up to 60 percent on items. Macy’s Don’t miss exciting deals on furniture, rugs, housewares, and more. Take advantage of the deals marked as Cyber Monday Special. Overstock Furniture, home appliances, and home décor will go on sale during the epic Cyber Monday. Along with great deals, take advantage of the free shipping on your purchase. Wayfair Save on 4K televisions and super-sized TVs during the Cyber Monday sale. Cyber Monday will also fetch great Apple watch discounts, and you might get the lowest prices on Apple Watch 6 and SE. Also, explore the deals on rugs, furniture, living room seating, and more at Wayfair.
19 things in the house that may be worth a fortune

19 things in the house that may be worth a fortune

While most people today are constantly on the move to declutter and organize, it may be worthwhile to hold on to some precious items from the past. Apart from their sentimental value, these items could be worth a lot of money today! So, get ready to sift through cupboards and other storage spaces to find these hidden gems. Here are 19 things around the house that could be worth a lot of money: Old magazines Several people have trouble throwing away old magazines. Over time, some magazines may become lucrative collector’s items, valued at over a hundred dollars today. Their rarity, condition, and number of printed issues determine their valuation. Vintage furniture Vintage and antique furniture are always in demand, with some pieces fetching thousands of dollars on sale. With the growing popularity of retro, mid-century, and vintage styles, now may be the perfect time to sell any vintage or antique furniture pieces one may have lying around the house. Old cameras Since the advent of smartphones with picture and video-taking capabilities, cameras seem obsolete to many. As a result, old devices have just been collecting dust. If one has any old cameras at home, consider getting them valued. Rare, vintage cameras are a big hit in the photography community and could fetch a handsome sum. Old currency Old coins and banknotes are a popular collector’s item, and rare currency can be worth a lot of money today. According to certain sources, quarters, dimes, half-dollars, and silver dollars minted before 1964 were 90% silver. Depending on their year of circulation and denomination, these coins could be worth $0.93-$82.20 in melted silver. Other rare coins may hold value beyond their material, with some being valued at as much as $3000. Books Old books could be worth a lot of money too.
Top 20 best 2022 Black Friday furniture sales to check out

Top 20 best 2022 Black Friday furniture sales to check out

The Black Friday shopping season is here to enthrall you. Are you waiting for it eagerly to shop for your favorite items with the best deals? Also, there are plenty of Black Friday furniture sales to impress you and help you upgrade your home. Some amazing deals and discounts were available last year; listed below are a few. This list will give you an idea of what’s on offer this year. Here is a list of some amazing Black Friday deals that were offered last year: Last year there was $182 off on the Walnew four-piece outdoor patio furniture. You could get up to 80% off on rugs at Wayfair. Another great deal was the $135 off on the Gymax Patio Outdoor Rattan Furniture set (3 pieces) plus free shipping. Another outstanding offer at Walnew was the $76 off on pre-assembled modern dining chairs, a set of four, plus free shipping. You could enjoy up to 50% off on living room furniture plus free shipping at Walmart. You could enjoy your meals or entertain family and friends with the Canyon five-piece dining set with a large dining table. This was available at a discounted price last year, and you could also look for bigger and better furniture deals on Black Friday this year. Looking for deals on branded furniture? Then Amazon offered up to 15 % off on brands, including its own, and free shipping. You should not miss the 40% off on recliners and massage chairs at HomeDepot. This was offered last year too. Office furniture and chairs were as low as $99 with various retailers. You can also get up to 30% off on select furniture pieces at Amazon. Deals and discounts were also available on branded armchairs. This included 40-50% off on accent chairs. Look for discounts on Madison Park Furniture, as this was available at 30-40% off last year.
6 common mistakes people make when vacuuming

6 common mistakes people make when vacuuming

While most homes in the country have vacuum cleaners, only a few homeowners know how to use the device correctly. Although this versatile home appliance is convenient, it is an investment. However, by simply learning how to handle the machine, you can use it lifelong. Thankfully, most of the mistakes are avoidable. Let’s take a look at the six most common vacuuming mistakes that we tend to make and how to avoid them.   Six common vacuuming mistakes to avoid    Vacuuming in one direction This is the most common mistake homeowners tend to make. People often use the cleaner in a single direction. However, the appliance is designed to operate in both directions. When you use the cleaner in one direction, it sucks up the dust and grime from one direction and leaves behind the contaminants from the other side. However, when you use the appliance in both directions, a higher concentration and percentage of stubborn allergens, dirt, hair strands, and dust get removed. Optimal use of the device is possible only with bi-directional usage.   Using the machine too fast Most people believe that since the vacuum cleaner is a machine, it can do the work fast. While it is faster than manually dusting and brooming the floor, it still takes time to clean the place. Understandably, you might want to rush through the day’s work due to pending chores, but nothing gives instant results. The machine will work how it has been engineered—to work at its own pace. Expecting the vacuum to work its magic in minutes is futile. Moreover, when you use it too quickly, most of the dirt and dust will be left behind. The machine needs time and patience; vacuuming around slowly will help suck up all the contaminants and allergens.   Leaving the bags filled with dust and dirt If you continuously use the machine, the bag that collects dust will fill with contaminants.