Shopping·17 min read

Our Go-To Problem-Solving Pet Products That’ll Make Life Easier

problem-solving pet products
Design: theSkimm | Photo: Tuft + Paw, Amazon
June 6, 2023

This post was originally published in July 2021 and has been updated.

Products you buy through our links may earn us a commission. Oh, and if something's out of stock, oops, it was there (and all prices were accurate) at time of publication.

Owning a pet is the definition of fun...until they shed everywhere, make a mess while eating, and refuse to take a bath. Not everything is morning snuggles and cute selfies (despite what Instagram may lead you to believe). 

To help you handle the unavoidably inconvenient parts of pet parenthood, we rounded up products that are sure to solve some common problems. Totally pawsome. 

Petco

A slow feeder for cats…

This dishwasher-safe bowl will help them enjoy their meal for even longer. It allows them to eat their food gradually, thanks to its grooves. Psst…you can also use it to make their treats extra interactive. ($6.99, Petco)

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Chewy

A peanut butter dog toy that keeps them occupied for hours…

They're slightly scented (they come in various meat-scented or peanut butter options) to engage dogs in play, but it's barely enough to be detected by humans. As dogs chew, tiny scent particles are released from the toys to keep them entertained. Say hello to their newest obsession. ($16.99+, Chewy)

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Wild One

The cutest harness kit for daily dog walks…

This set comes with everything you’ll need for a park outing with your pooch, including a lightweight harness, a dirt-resistant, waterproof leash, and a poop bag carrier. Plus, it comes in 11 bright colors that are pawfect for spring. Pick a monochromatic look for your doggo or mix and match. Walk it out. ($98, Wild One)

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white and gray modern litter box for cats
Tuft+Paw

A chic litter box that won’t be an eyesore in your home…

This minimal one comes with a dustpan, scoop, and hand brush. Your cat will have more than enough room to do their business, but the compact design won’t hog much floor space. The grippy bottom is an added bonus and will help it stay put while your cat moves around. ($199, Tuft+Paw)

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compostable dog poop bags with handles
Hive

Doggie poop bags that trap odors and have handles…

You’ll be able to pick up after your pet without any fear of dirtying your hands. The bags are strong, leak-proof, and housed in recyclable packaging. Your dog walk just got a lot more pleasant. ($7.99/120 pack, Hive)

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Wild One

A tumbling tennis toy that’ll encourage solo play for your pup…

A tennis ball trapped in a rubber barrel? They’re about to be obsessed. From paw pushing to rolling, it’ll be the perfect doggy distraction for home or the car. And it’s good for their brain. You’re the best pet parent out there. ($29, Wild One)

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Colorful dog food bag
Petaluma

Veterinarian-formulated dog food that’s nutrient-rich…

Made from plant-based ingredients, this kibble is flavored with roasted peanuts and sweet potatoes. Everything is oven-baked, which helps preserve nutrients and flavors. Ingredients are organic, corn- and soy-free, and the packaging included is made from renewable, plant-based fibers, which cuts single-use plastic waste by 40%. Do good for your pooch and the planet. ($34.95, Petaluma)

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Amazon

A gadget that’ll keep their paws clean…

This automatic paw cleaner has soft silicone bristles with a powerful motor that rotates 25 times in just 20 seconds. All you have to do is place their paw inside and press the main button. It’ll safely and quickly scrub dirt off their paws post-walk, so they can skip straight to treat time. Plus, it’s rechargeable and has about a 15 day battery life from a single charge. It’s a yes from us. ($35.99, Amazon)

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Redbubble

A mat for your favorite messy eater…

Because your pet deserves their very own place mat too. It’s super soft, so it’ll be a comfy resting spot for your furry friend while they wait for dinner. And it’ll keep their bowls in place while protecting your floors from any scratches or spills. Pick the fish-shaped one for your favorite feline. Plus, you can throw it in the wash for the easiest clean up. It’s a dinner paw-ty. ($20, Redbubble)

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Brown cat hiding behind orange cat food bag
Smalls

A yummy meal plan (but for your cat)...

If you’re confused about how to feed your cat nutritiously, listen up. All you’ve got to do is fill out a questionnaire about your feline friend. You’ll be asked about their likes, dislikes, food history, and more. You’ll also be able to choose their favorite protein. Once you’re finished, you’ll get a sampler mailed to your door to see how your cat responds. If things go well (they will), you can sign up for a monthly subscription. But, no worries if things change — you can always switch up recipes, skip a month, and readjust based on their picky preferences. (Prices vary, Smalls)

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canvas treat bag
MarsAndMocha via Etsy

A treat bag to help with obedience on walks…

Stop fumbling with a Ziploc. This one can clip to a leash and has a snap closure. So you can open and close it hassle free. And when they do something good, you can quickly reward them. Positive reinforcement, coming right up. ($34.90, MarsandMocha via Etsy)

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Amazon

A clipper so you can safely trim their nails without taking too much off…

This one has a safety guard so only a predetermined amount of nail will be cut each time. Aka you won’t cut too close and possibly hurt them in the process. ($14.95, Amazon)

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Diggs

A PB&J-inspired treat spread that will help your pup relax…

Made of peanuts, honey, blueberries, cranberries, and coconut oil, this small-batch spread can do it all. Use it as a meal topper, dip their favorite bone in it for an added treat or put it on a play mat. It’ll promote licking, which is proven to help dogs relax. Ahh… ($14, Diggs)

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Rubber broom collecting pet fur
Amazon

A rubber broom that’ll pick up fur like a dream...

We’re talking magic. It’ll work on carpet, tile, and wood floors. When you’re done, place the broom under running water to wash. It’s that easy. ($24.99, Amazon)

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Amazon

A multipurpose skin paste so that they can look and feel their best…

This one cleans between wrinkles and tail pockets, removes tear stains, and soothes itchiness. And because it’s made with shea butter and avocado oil, it’s even great for pups with the most sensitive skin. Win. ($18.70, Amazon)

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rolling brush over brown couch covered in fur
Amazon

A rolling brush that’ll remove hair from clothes and couches... 

All it takes is a few sweeps. It can be used over and over again to pick up stray hairs that just don’t seem to leave pillows. Plus, it works on sheets and blankets too. No batteries or cords necessary. ($25.45, Amazon)

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Amazon

A good probiotic for a good dog…

Whether their morning walks have started to become not-so-regular or you’re looking to improve your dog’s gut health, these high-fiber probiotic chews will do the trick. Digestive enzymes, flaxseed, and essential omega-3 fatty acids all help to boost your dog’s immune system, keep them regular, and create a happy tummy. There’s no corn, soy, artificial flavoring or preservatives. Plus, the delish chicken flavor will keep them scratching for more. Win, win. ($24.99/120, Amazon)

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PetPlate

A personalized and pre-portioned food service for dogs…

First you’ll answer some questions to help build your pet’s plan. Each meal is nutrient-packed with fresh ingredients. Plus, it's all cooked in USDA kitchens, the same way human food is prepped. So before the meals are shipped to you, they’re flash-frozen to lock in freshness. The full plan has lots of options, including turkey, pork, chicken, lamb, venison, and beef. Once you’re ready to serve your pup, you can prep the food cold or warm it in the microwave. All the packaging is BPA-free and recyclable too. PS: Check out these other yummy options for your pet. (Prices vary by plan, PetPlate)

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Dog with Anxiety grey  jacket on
Amazon

An anxiety jacket to help dogs that get frightened by thunder or fireworks…

It works much like a weighted blanket for humans. The jacket gently hugs your pet, applying light pressure to calm them. Think of it like a constant hug (or like swaddling a baby). It can help dogs that get easily worked up during car trips, vet visits, and more. Customers rave about the results. ($39.95+, Amazon)

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cat rubbing face against rush
Amazon

A self-grooming brush you can mount on a wall…

Your feline friend will immediately want to rub up against it. They’ll get daily massages. And you’ll get fewer interruptions as you WFH. When the brush gets filled with hair, simply remove it from the bracket and wash with soap and water. ($4.99, Amazon)

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Blue mat with peanut butter on it, golden retriever licking mat
Amazon

A licking mat that can keep pets distracted during baths…

It’s pretty simple: Fill the mat with a tasty treat (like peanut butter) and stick it to the shower wall. It’ll keep your pupper busy while you shampoo and condition them. The tiny silicone nubs will trap whatever treat you use, so they’ll need to keep licking to actually get every bit out. ($13.99, Amazon)

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Cat inside blue carrier bag
Amazon

A cotton cat-carrier bag so you can keep them under control when you need to…

Like during vet visits, on car rides or while cutting their nails. The bag itself has a little opening for seat belts to pass through and shoulder straps for convenient carry. It’s also pretty thick just in case they get a little feisty and wanna claw. It looks kinda funny (we admit it), but reviewers really love how well it works. ($39.95+, Amazon)

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Container reading Allergy +Immune Chews
Amazon

An allergy chew to help dogs that itch, lick, and sneeze…

Yep, even dogs can have allergies. To help them out, this chew packs a powerful punch. It’s got colostrum and apple cider vinegar to help boost their immunity and digestive system. It also includes omega-3 fatty acids to support their skin, coat, heart, and joint health. Cheers to more belly rubs. ($26.97, Amazon)

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Cat Dancer toy and Black cat reaching for her toy attached to a string
Amazon

An interactive cat toy that’ll hold their attention…

Because sometimes you need to lure them away from scratching the couch leg. This toy will get them up and moving (well, dancing). It’s pretty basic, but it’ll get the job done. What more can ya ask for? ($3.53, Amazon)

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Dog with Orange Life Jacket
Chewy

A life jacket for dogs that insist on playing in the water…

Now you can enjoy a boat day without having to worry about a pup falling overboard. This jacket will keep them afloat. The top has grab handles just in case you need to swoop them up quickly. Psst...everything is adjustable (thanks to the buckles), so you can get a snug fit. Time to take a dip. ($17.99+, Chewy)

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Groomer gloves covered in fur
Amazon

A glove brush for pets who get too spooked at the groomer…

Time to DIY. The gloves work on long- or short-haired dogs, cats, and horses. The petting motion helps soothe them and clean their coat at the same time. So they look their best and you don’t have to worry about a nervous, shaking pup. ($15.99, Amazon)

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gentle eye wipes
Amazon

Alcohol-free wipes that will keep your pet’s eyes irresistible…

There’s nothing better than staring deeply into your pet’s eyes — when they’re nice 'n clean. These gentle wipes reduce infection and prevent stains around the eyes, ears, and mouth. Irritation? Not paw-sible. They condition and moisturize sensitive spots without depleting the skin’s natural lipid barrier. ($17, Amazon)

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Blue Water bottle with Golden Retriever drinking out of it
Amazon

A water bottle with a cup that flips up for easy access…

So your pet can stay hydrated on long walks. Oh, and so you don’t have to lug around a bowl or try to get them to drink from a water bottle or fountain. Now when you hear them panting, you can flip it up, squeeze, and presto — the cup will fill with water. Excess liquid they don’t want will drain back into the bottle for later. ($17.97, Amazon)

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bone broth trio
Open Farm

A bone broth trio that will have your doggo begging for seconds…

Want a gourmet meal for your pup without all the hassle? This pack comes with humanely raised turkey, chicken, and grass-fed beef broths that are cooked with ingredients like non-GMO pumpkin, carrot, and turmeric. Use it as a kibble topper to zhuzh up their favorite meal or to rehydrate any freeze-dried dishes. Broths are slow cooked in small batches to support healthy joints, skin, digestive health, and so much more. ($23.99, Open Farm)

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cat water fountain
Petlibro

An automatic water fountain to keep your furry friend hydrated…

With a five-level filtration system, this 24/7 fountain is ultra-quiet, BPA-free, and customizable to your pet’s preferences. The size is also adjustable depending on your pet’s height. No babbling brook nearby? All good. Flowing-stream and gentle-bubble settings signal fresh, safe water to your pet. Because all of us (pets included) should be drinking more water. They’ll be sure to lap it up. ($31.99+, Petlibro)

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