Looking For the Right Flea Treatment For Your Cat

By Damian M Murphy

What do cats and dogs have in common? Aside from four legs, tail, paws, and being outright adorable cats and dogs may be infested with fleas.

Dogs are not the only ones affected by fleas. Your feline sweetie may also have flea problems. Cats who love to roam around your back yard or your neighborhood is prone to flea infestation. Their activities may expose them to environments and other pets which have fleas. When they have them, you will see them scratching. Far worse, fleas may be a serious threat to their health.

What can you do to Help Your Cat

I know it pains you seeing your purr ball so uncomfortable, scratching itself all day. No need to worry since you have a lot of options you can explore:

If you have been using a certain brand of flea control for quite sometime and think it is not effective then by all means change it. Ask your vet or other cat lovers for recommendations.

It may also be helpful to have the veterinarian dip your cat in a very effective flea treatment solution. This treatment may help your pet to be free of fleas for several months.

Remember that these flea treatments are only temporary. It will be best if you incorporate it with other preventive measures like the following:

• House Check- Check the spots where fleas and other pests may cling into. Have carpets and mats cleaned the first time you see signs of these parasites. You also have to be very conscious of cracks which can serve as breeding spaces for the fleas

• Vacuum Regularly- This will suck the fleas out of your home environment. Maker sure that you clean up the dark and warm corners of your home where fleas can tribe. Run the vacuum over carpets, mats, chairs, sofas, and other places where fleas can cling to.

• Flea Collar- Ask your vet for an effective flea collar that your cat can wear. Aside from making your cat prettier, this will also prevent flea outbreaks which may endanger your pet and your family.

• Flea Treatment Products- You can find a lot of these in the supermarket. There are sprays, flea bombs, or concentrates to get rid of fleas. Read the labels carefully and make sure that it will be safe for your family and your pet.

The best tool for flea control is knowledge. Read on and be aware of how fleas propagate, what harm they can do to your pets and family, and how you can best eliminate them. There are a lot of free articles and online resources where you can find the best flea treatments. Most of the time, knowing your enemy is the best way to conquer them.

Flea Treatment Flea Treatments

How to Treat Feline Urinary Tract Infection Without Putting Your Cat's Health at Risk

By Ann Matthews

By the time you finish reading this, you are going to understand why prevention is the best medicine and why you should only give antibiotics to your cat as a last result. Feline urinary tract infection is not a common problem but 10% of cat visits to the vet involve lower urinary tract disease. Feline lower urinary tract disease is often referred to as a "silent killer" because your cat may not show any obvious symptoms. As a result the infection can eventually travel up to your cat's kidneys and kill him.

If cat urinary tract infection has progressed to the late stages, you most likely will need to take your cat to a veterinarian and administer conventional treatment. The most common treatment for feline urinary tract disease is antibiotics. Since the most common causes or urinary tract problems are bacterial infections and bladder stones, antibiotics function quickly and work to reduce pain and suppress symptoms.

The problem with antibiotics is that their overuse and abuse has led to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria and a lack of preventive care amongst pet owners. People come to rely on a quick fix rather than implementing the necessary dietary and lifestyle changes. Recurrent feline urinary tract infection can be easily treated and prevented by proper care and holistic treatment at home.

An important step in reducing the incidence of UTI in your cat is making sure your cat always has access to fresh, clean water. The consumption of fresh, clean water promotes detoxification and the flushing out of harmful bacteria that causes cat urinary tract infection. It is also essential to feed your cat healthy, unprocessed foods that contain important minerals like magnesium. As a complementary therapy to conventional treatment or as a treatment method on its own, a homeopathic remedy can be highly beneficial. It can be taken for long periods with no risk of side effects.

If your cat is in the early stages of feline urinary tract infection, he can recover safely with homeopathic treatment. There is no need to make him suffer from the dangerous side effects of antibiotics, which are known aggravate infections since the doses required are very high. Antibiotics and surgery are treatments that should be considered as last resorts because they are expensive and have serious consequences.

Your goal? Prevent feline urinary tract infection from becoming a problem by making sure your cat's diet and lifestyle are health-promoting. It might break your heart to see your cat in pain but you shouldn't let that stop you from seeking out a treatment gives you results gradually yet effectively rather than immediately and temporarily. Use homeopathic remedies instead of antibiotics in order to treat mild infections and prevent future recurrences. If you do so, you will find that natural treatment gets to the root of the underlying problem and leads to permanent recovery rather than just a suppression of symptoms.

If you want to make sure you are giving your pets the best health care available, please take time to read more about the many natural alternatives at my site: http://www.natural-pet-treatment.com BIO: Ann Matthews is a long time pet health enthusiast with Pet Alive who has a real passion for the well-being of all pets

Feline Health Tips - Three Easy Steps to Happy Cats

By Tim Whiston

Feline health is all about maintenance. This article will give you three easy steps for keeping your cat(s) happy and healthy on a long-term basis.

Cats are independent creatures in many ways. If you follow a few simple guidelines your feline friends will enjoy maximum health and a very long life.

Use the information below to formulate your own feline health care plan:

Feline Health Tip #1 Choosing The Right Food

It's critical that you feed your cats a high quality food product. You might save money by going with a dollar store brand of cat food, but the end result will be poor health and possible even complications.

A quality food will ensure optimal feline health by providing the proper nutrition. A good product like Science Diet, Iams, or Eukanuba will boost your cat's energy levels, give them a healthy, shiny coat, and support a strong digestive system.

Also, a higher-grade food will not contain the kind of fillers and junk found in low-grade stock. Such byproducts can cause digestion problems and sluggish performance over time.

Feline Health Tip #2 Providing A Cat-Friendly Environment

Feline health experts agree that cats living indoors full time live longer than cats that are allowed to go outside frequently. Obviously felines will encounter far fewer hazards in your home than they would when wandering the streets or countryside.

However, cats love being outside. So you may want to allow some outdoors time if you live a safe distance from a busy road and there are no free-roaming, aggressive dogs in your area.

Even cats that live inside can endanger themselves through their tendency to investigate unsafe areas. Go over your home as if you planned to childproof it to avoid problems that arise form curious felines.

Keep cleaning chemicals and other toxic materials locked away. Cats might be attracted to the sweet smell of cleaning solutions.

Also be sure any heating/cooling ducts are protected with the proper grates to prevent cats from getting stuck in the ductwork. And avoid leaving easy access to standing water in kitchen sinks or bathtubs.

Feline Health Tip #3 Cat Maintenance

It's a good idea to pay close attention to your cat's eyes, mouth, ears, and feet. Look for any liaisons, discharges, or other signs of injury or illness so you can prevent infection or serious complications resulting from their active lifestyle.

And be aware that cats are vulnerable to a whole range of dental, respiratory, and ear/eye complications. By keeping a close watch on any new developments or major behavioral changes you can stop an illness from becoming too serious.

Any changes in eating or drinking habits should be taken seriously. If a cat becomes disinterested in food or water or becomes unable to use the litter box contact your vet without delay.

These three very simple tips can help you keep your cat(s) happy and healthy for a very long time. These wonderful creatures rely on you to keep them healthy and safe, and diligence in this regard is a small price to pay for the companionship they offer.

For more easy, practical tips on keeping your cats in an optimal state of feline health be sure to visit the author's cat health care site now.

Feline Health Tips - Helping Your Overweight Cat Lose a Few Pounds

By Tim Whiston

Feline obesity is a threat to the health and lifespan of your cat. This article will help you work with your cat to lose the needed weight with minimal struggle.

Feline health is, in many ways, common sense. Since cats are mammals like us, many of the same basic premises apply.

When a cat is overweight, he or she is at risk for heart problems, diabetes, and the exact same complications obese humans experience. Good feline health practices for reducing obesity are the same tactics used for people who need to shed a few excess pounds.

Essentially your cat needs to take in fewer calories and get a little more exercise. That's all there is to it unless there is some genetic setback causing the feline obesity.

You might think it's hard to get your cat on a diet and exercise program, but in truth it's quite easy. Where you lead, your feline friend will follow.

The first step is to ask your vet what your cat's target weight should be. Your veterinarian should be able to give you a good range to shoot for with a basic physical exam.

Fewer Calories In Your Cat's Diet

Once you have a target weight goal, you'll need to start by adjusting your cat's caloric intake. Your vet can recommend a good food with fewer calories.

Also you can adjust the current feeding schedule. If you're leaving food in the bowl all day long, start feeding your cat twice a day instead.

Take the bowls up after your cat eats in the morning and set them out again for the evening meal. Again, once the cat has had a good meal, take the food up again until the next morning.

Clearly if you have multiple cats it might not be as easy to manage your obese feline's diet. If you don't want to put all cats on a reduced schedule just find a food with fewer calories and eliminate treats until the target weight is reached.

And certainly stop giving your cat people food! Especially in cases of feline obesity it is counterproductive to share people food with your cat.

Feline Exercise Program

Chance are your cat is already somewhat active. Even cats who "sleep all day" have at least one activity period during the day.

Felines are polyphasic, meaning they have multiple periods of sleep and activity during the day. You may simply be unaware of when your cat is running and playing.

Your job is to get your cat involved in a period of exercise and brisk physical activity for about ten minutes each day. And you can do this by simply playing with him or her.

Drag a string, throw a catnip ball, or do something else to intrigue your cat into motion. Keep him/her running, jumping, and swatting for ten minutes or longer without stopping.

You can use catnip to stimulate your cat if needed. Many felines get a rush from this herb and will become more active for several minutes after rolling in or eating it.

It takes a little focus on your part to correct a feline obesity problem. But you owe it to your cat to put forth the effort on this because after all, you are the parental figure in this relationship.

For more easy, practical tips on keeping your cats in an optimal state of feline health be sure to visit the author's cat health care site now.

Using Flower Essences With Cats

By Nedda Wittels

Are you are trying to integrate a new cat into your feline family? Do your cats fight with each other? Is your new cat grieving its lost human companion who had to go into a nursing home? Flower remedies or essences are helpful in many situations. Choosing the right essences is facilitated by knowing what the animals are thinking and feeling. As an Animal Communicator, I can gather this information and choose appropriate remedies.

Flower remedies are the vibrational patterns of flowers in liquid form. Each flower's unique energy pattern models specific healthy emotional vibrations. When the bio-electrical systems of the animal align with the model, not only may an animal's emotional state and behaviors change, but sometimes even physical illnesses will be helped to resolve.



One client had six cats and had rescued a seventh. When she tried to integrate the new female, the cats fought and there was chaos. A new cat will cause a shifting about of everyone's position in the group dynamic. In this instance, the new cat was fairly dominant. She was unwilling to come into the group at the bottom of the pecking order. The currently dominant cat wasn't about to give up her position. The other five cats had their various relationships and ranks, but now all positions were fluctuating.

First, I explained to each feline what was going on and why the person wanted to keep the new cat. I also gathered information about how each cat felt about the new one and about their individual willingness to cooperate. I talked to the new cat to get her perspective as well. We all brainstormed for solutions that might help smooth out the process.

Then I chose flower essences. While continuing to use Rescue Remedy, I added Walnut to help each cat cope with a major life change; Quaking Grass, to help each cat's vibrations find harmony and flexibility in the group energy; Chicory for the one cat who tended to be jealous and manipulative; and Tiger Lily to reduce aggressive behavior during the shift. In addition, I suggested that the client mist the house twice a day with some Rescue Remedy diluted in water, creating a calming atmosphere. The human agreed not to behave in ways that showed favoritism towards the new cat.

The cats began to settle down quickly once they were on the essences. Over a period of months, the new cat was integrated without anyone getting hurt.

Flower essences start working immediately, yet work gradually and gently. Sometimes behaviors change quickly, but the essences should be given for several months to assure a sustained transformation. Flower essences will not change someone's personality, although they can take the edge off of an extreme behavior.

Another client had a male Abyssinian cat who told me he was "a God" and who was beating up on the female cat in the family, a American Short Hair, because he felt she didn't "worship" him appropriately. His person was astonished. "Does he think my husband and I worship him?" she asked. The Abyssinian answered, "Yes." He said that his people thought he was beautiful; they fed, petted and admired him as much as he wanted. The female cat was sweet, but not very self- confident, especially as the male would swat at her each time she walked past him.

We set this goal: to boost the female's confidence while lowering the male's aggressive tendencies. For the male I chose Vine, for being domineering, inflexible, and a bully, combined with Beech, for intolerance, and Tiger Lily, for aggression. For the female I chose Larch, to build self-confidence, combined with Centaury, for allowing oneself to be bullied. As a result of the essences, the male cat stopped his aggressive behavior while the female no longer ran madly past him. The situation resolved quickly because the right flower essences were used. The male's beliefs about himself did not change; his concern about the female cat and his behaviors towards her did.

Flower essences can be used with most species, including mammals, reptiles, and birds. They are non-invasive and do not conflict with prescribed medications. If you are having a behavioral or emotional problem with an animal and you would like to try a holistic approach, consider using flower essences. With the assistance of an Animal Communicator, you are more likely to hit on just the right combination, with the added benefit of understanding your animals' perspectives. This helps achieve the desired results.

Rev. Nedda Wittels, M.A., M.S., is a telepathic Animal Communicator, Spiritual Counselor, and Shamballa Master/Teacher, offering private sessions in telepathic communication and in healing for humans and animals. She teaches workshops in telepathic communication with all species and in Shamballa Multidimensional Healing. She can be reached at 860.651.5771 and http://www.raysofhealinglight.com

Giving Cats Medicine Made Easy

By Nedda Wittels

My two cats, Violet and Sakkara, are a lesson in contrasts when it comes to taking medication. With Sakkara, a buff colored tabby, all I have to do is offer her a pill and her mouth opens like a baby bird whose parent has just returned to the nest. Violet, my highly opinionated Siamese, cautiously sniffed everything and rejected pills immediately as inedible and possibly poisonous. She also doesn't want me to open her mouth for any reason. Even attempts to admire her teeth are rejected out of paw.

So Violet and I needed a system of giving medicine that would work 100% of the time for her and for me. I had to learn how to give the medicine in a way that made taking it easy for Violet. Violet had to learn to allow me to open her mouth, swallow the medicine, and still be relaxed and in my lap. She also had to teach me what was comfortable for her and to let me know what wasn't working.

Violet is very good at spitting out pills. She is also small, muscular, and strong, and can wriggle around easily in my arms. She is very quick, and there is no way I can chase her and catch her, and even if I could, both of us would end up exhausted, exasperated, and emotionally revved. It was a challenge to find a way to give her medication that wouldn't be traumatic for either of us.

Part of the solution was to use Bach's Rescue Remedy, the well known flower essence formula that reduces stress and trauma. I also decided to desensitize Violet to the process of taking medications. I soon discovered that we needed to develop a rhythm so that all the pills and liquids would be consumed while both of us were still calm and speaking to each other politely.

Anitra Frazier, in her book, "The New Natural Cat," gives some excellent descriptions for medicating cats. This proved to be a good starting place as I began learning to give meds. Today, I can hold either cat in my lap without a towel wrapped around her and give any needed medicine. Here are some basic principles that work for us.

Patience is essential. Decide that you will be patient with yourself and your cat. Leave plenty of time so you don't feel rushed.

Decide that you and your cat are going to LEARN together. Tell your cat why you are giving the medicine and ask for your cat's cooperation. Tell your cat you are learning how to do this and ask your cat to help you learn. Animals can understand you when you say their name and speak clearly, lovingly, and fill in details using mental pictures.

Before you begin giving medication, be lavish with your use of Rescue Remedy. You can't overdose with a flower essence. Take plenty of it yourself. Put it on your cat's lips and nose pad, or even on his paw pads. Do this several times until you both feel the calming effect. It also helps to take some deep relaxing breaths and to open your heart center.

Success depends upon how you define it. I define "success" as a peaceful training session that ends peacefully. While getting medicine into your cat might seem like the highest priority, in the beginning, your highest priority is for you and your cat to have a positive experience. When you succeed in creating a positive experience, subsequent medication sessions will become easier and easier.

Prepare in advance by setting out everything you will use prior to picking up your cat.

When you go to get your cat to begin the session, think about something else - anything else. Cats are telepathic and know what we are thinking. They can move quickly and disappear when they know you have medicine on your mind.

Never chase your cat to catch him to give medicine. You are intelligent enough to come up with ways to make chasing unnecessary. Plan ahead. Trickery is best avoided since cats learn fast and the same trick may not work more than once.

Be firm and gentle with your cat when giving medicine. Do not handle her roughly, but do hold her so that getting away is not a possibility. If your cat gets away, do not chase, but instead try again at a later time.

After giving the medicine, be sure to praise and thank your cat for cooperating. Most sick animals know you are trying to help them and really do try to get the medicine down especially when you've explained why they need it.

When you are finished, do not allow your cat to jump out of your arms. Cats will interpret this as a successful escape, and it is important that they believe that escape is not an option. Instead, gently put your cat down.

As I was writing this article, Violet told me she has some additional comments to share. Since the feline perspective is important here, I suggest you take her advice seriously:

"Pills that are slippery go down more easily. Pills rolled in butter that has been softened to room temperature slip down just fine and taste good, too!

"Cats cannot swallow pills when their mouths are held shut and/or their heads are tilted back.

"Cats cannot swallow and breathe at the same time. We feel like we are choking if you give us too much liquid too quickly or too many pills in a row, and we panic. Please give us time to breathe between swallows and to lick our lips.

"Take frequent breaks. This gives us time to breathe and you can stroke and pet us, which is relaxing. Remember, finding your cat's natural rhythm for swallowing and breathing is important to keeping him calm.

"When you take a break, check to make sure you are still relaxed and not holding your own breath. Make sure your heart center is still open.

"If a pill or liquid has a bad taste, Nedda gives me a few drops of plain water with a clean dropper after I swallow it. This helps wash away the bad taste and I really appreciate it."

For a step-by-step outline for teaching yourself and your cat to work together when you give medicine, please visit my website, http://www.raysofhealinglight.com and read the article, "Teaching Your Cat to Take Medicine." Remember, the basic principles are to be patient and relaxed yourself, take your time, encourage your cat to help you, and find a rhythm that works for both of you. Although you may currently dread having to give pills or liquid medicine to your cats, the time may come when doing so will save your feline's life. In just a few short learning and desensitization sessions you can transform a difficult or seemly impossible experience into a relatively pleasant one for both of you. Rev. Nedda Wittels, M.A., M.S., is a telepathic Animal Communicator and Shamballa Master/Teacher offering private sessions in telepathic communication and in healing for humans and animals. She also offers Spiritual Empowerment Sessions for people awakening to new consciousness. Nedda teaches workshops in telepathic communication with all species and in Shamballa Multidimensional Healing. She can be reached at 860-651-5771 or at http://www.raysofhealinglight.com

10 Ways to Look After Your Cat

By Martin Davis

Cats are very independent creatures, but as their owner they still rely on you to provide them with food, water and a safe place to stay.

1 - Fit your cat with a collar and attached to it details relating to you including your telephone number. This way if your cat does happen to get out and goes missing then the chances of them being returned to you will be greatly improved.

2 - Today you will also find that it is a legal requirement that your cat is actually micro chipped. This is something that your vet needs to do and normally they will inject the small device between the animal's shoulder blades. As well as you having a copy of the identification information this is then entered into a database and so if animal is lost a quick swipe of the animal will tell if it is the one.

3 - Although many cats like to be able to go outside if you live in a built up area it is best if you keep them confined to your home. Ideally look at providing them with plenty of things such as a scratching post so that they don't get bored and start to damage your furniture instead. Plus it is a good idea when you go out to restrict them to one room only in the house (i.e., the kitchen) and make sure that they have everything that they need.

4 - It is important with any pet including cats that they go to the vet regularly not just for checkups but for boosters of their vaccinations. If you are unsure which vet to use, ask a friend, neighbour or a family member if they can recommend someone.

5 - You may not like it but having your cat spayed or neutered is extremely important especially if they are allowed to roam outside. Not only will your cat be a lot healthier but this will help to prevent you ending up with more cats than you wanted.

6 - You need to ensure that you provide your cat with a well balanced nutritional diet and make sure that they have a good continuous supply of fresh water. If you are unsure just what you should be feeding your cat then speak to your vet and they may recommend something for them. Certainly it is best for young cats (kittens) and older cats that they are give food specifically designed for them. A quick search online and you will see there are plenty of products now available suitable for all types of cats no matter their ages.

7 - As mentioned you need to prevent your cats from doing things that you find undesirable. Although you may not believe it but just like dogs a cat can be taught to do things. However, it will take quite a lot of time and effort on your part and certainly you will need lots of patience with your animal if you want to stop such problems from arising such as them jumping up on to kitchen counters or tables.

8 - If you want your cats coat to remain looking good then you need to be regularly grooming them, especially if the cat has long hair. Grooming long haired cats regularly will help to prevent their coats from becoming matted, plus it also helps to remove loose hairs as well. Although short haired coats don't need so much grooming as long haired breeds by brushing them regularly you are stopping them from ingesting the loose hairs when they groom themselves. If they ingest too much hair it can form into hairballs which if they cannot expel can lead to other health issues for your cat.

9 - You may not believe it but it is a good idea to actually spend some time playing with your cat especially if they are kept in the house all the time. It not only helps to stimulate them physically but mentally as well, plus the bond between the two of you will be strengthened.

10 - Finally whenever you spend time with them carry out your own checks. This way if you spot any abnormalities in your pet you can take them immediately to the check to have the problem looked at further. When doing your own checks start at the head and work your way down the body. Check the ears make sure that they are clean and they are not producing any unpleasant odours. Next look at their eyes are these clear and bright and focus on you and check to see if there is any discharge. Then you come to the teeth this may be difficult initially but once you are able to make sure the gums are pink and there hasn't been any build up of tartar on them. Plus you may not want to but see if their breath smells bad. The final thing to do is check their nose for any kind of discharge and when touched it should feel warm and dry.

Above we have shown you 10 ways to care for your cat as long as you keep these in mind then you will find that you will have a healthy and happy animal.

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Hand Raising a Kitten - The Story of Ricky Bobby

By Kaitlin Cooper

My family has owned cats for well over 20 years. We were in no way prepared for what our dog, Shamrock, brought home one day. In this huge German Shepard's mouth was a tiny newborn kitten we ended up hand raising.

Shamrock was a sweet, loving dog who took to our 4 cats instantly. We adopted her when she was 2 years old from a shelter. One day she came to us and literally spit out a kitten no more than 3 inches long, with an umbilical cord still attached. We searched for the kitten's mother, but never could find her. There was nothing we could do but try hand raising this kitten ourselves.

Even with tons of cat experience, nothing prepares you for hand raising one. We had no idea what to do, so we researched information on the internet. Through lot of trial and error, we learned what worked best for our kitten whom we named Ricky Bobby.

We researched formula, techniques, and tips to getting him to eat well and grow healthy. The odds of a kitten that young making it were slim to none. Since we had no idea if Ricky Bobby had received vital colostrum from his mother, we were unsure if he had gotten valuable antibodies he needed for a good chance at a healthy life.

There were many times we didn't think this kitten would make it, but here he is 2 years later, healthy and happy. He did suffer an inner ear infection that leaves him permanently crooking his head to the side. He however, runs and plays and acts like any other normal cat. Well, normal may not be the word to use for him! Since he was hand raised he acts more like a human than any other cat we've ever owned. He uses his paws like hand and gets into many more things than a normal cat would dream of.

Hand raising Ricky Bobby was a tough, but awesome experience. He is a very special cat and we will never forget him and his amazing entry into our lives.

Learn more about Ricky Bobby and hand raising kittens by checking out my blog Kitten Care. You can also find many useful articles and tips on kitten care and products.

7 Foods That Are Toxic to Cats and Kittens

By Kaitlin Cooper

There are some human foods that are highly toxic to cats and kittens. As you may well know, kittens and cats are super curious and can get in quite a lot of trouble. They also have a very slow metabolism, which makes some foods more toxic to them than other pets such as dogs. Make sure to keep the following seven foods away from your kitten.

1. Chocolate. Most people know that chocolate is toxic to dogs, but don't know that it is toxic to cats and kittens too. Chocolate contains theobromine which kittens tend to metabolize very slowly. Humans can metabolize it just fine, but in kittens it is toxic and will affect the nervous system.

2. Caffeine/coffee/tea. Caffeine is toxic to cats and kittens and can cause death. It only takes a few teaspoons of caffeine to fatally poison a kitten. be very careful leaving these drinks out where they can get into them.

3. Grapes and Raisins. There is an unknown toxin in these foods that can damage a kitten's kidneys.

4.Macadamia nuts. These nuts also contain a toxin which affects nervous and digestive systems.

5.Mushrooms. These contain a toxin that cause shock and death in kittens.

6. Onions and garlic. These are dangerous raw, cooked or in a powder form .These foods contain sulfoxides which cause anemia by damaging red blood cells.

7. Fat trimmings from meat. This can cause pancreatitis in kittens.

This is by no means a full list of foods that are toxic to cats and kittens. There are also many other harmful materials that your kitten needs to stay away from such as nicotine. Any kind of raw meat or eggs can carry salmonella which is bad for humans and kittens alike. With kittens having a slow metabolism many things are more harmful to them. If you think your kitten has ingested something potentially harmful, please consult your veterinarian

Has a little ball of fur and energy won over your heart like they have mine? Check out my blog Kitten Care for all kinds of information and products for your furry friends. Find some great tips on litter box training and how to raise an orphaned kitten.

Kitten Safety

By Doris J Canova

Cat lovers already know that they enjoying a purring, happy kitten in their lap, more than the company of a cat who just stares at you like you have two heads, but your kittens safety is vary important as well. Kittens love to explore, and giving them safe ways to do this inside is wonderful. Try hiding favorite cat toys, such as a crinkly ball inside a cat tunnel and for even more excitement, try dangling a cat wand at one end when kitten is inside the tunnel. Kittens are naturally attracted to movements and sounds that trigger their instinct to stalk prey. Cats are often most active in the early morning and early evening. Exercise and vigorous playing can help get rid of excess energy and keep your kitten calmer for the remainder of the day. Take time out from your day to spend time playing with your kitten. Kittens don't like sharp sounds like those that come from a squeaky toy. Save the squeaky toys for the dogs and get your cat a catnip mouse instead. Cats are perfectly happy as inside pets so long as you provide them with enough toys and attention. If you're away from home for long period, you might consider having two kittens for company.

Cats will swallow ribbon or string, which will not pass. It will require surgical removal. Tie up traverse rod cords and pleated shade cords; you must keep these out of a reach, for your kitten safety. Cat's teeth, like our own, are susceptible to cavities and tartar so regular oral hygiene is essential to keep them clean. Cats will climb and then try to defy gravity all the time, and we get to enjoy it when gravity wins. They need something tall and sturdy like a scratching post so that they can scratch on it, and not the furniture. Cats are reluctant to use a litter pan that is too close to the cat's food so you must keep them far enough apart. When you get a new kitten or even an older cat go slow, don't rush it. Let your new cat come to you in its own time.

Cats scratch to mark their territory, not to just to sharpen their claws. When your kitten doesn't have the ability to use this marking behavior because you have had them declawed, they may find it necessary to mark their territory with urine and feces instead. Cats are well known for their bed hogging abilities. They can have you clinging to the outer edge of your bed while they are comfortably sprawled out, full length occupying nine tenths of the bed. We know this to be true even in our own household. When the cat takes a nap "don't crowd me" is the command!

For kitten safety, kittens generally do not overeat, so food should be made available at all times. There are automatic cat feeders that keep your kitten's food fresh and water fountains to keep water fresh as well. Always be sure to feed your kitten a good quality kitten food. Cats are carnivorous and they become mature at around seven to eight months old. Before this time their protein requirements are higher and the protein should be of animal origin. If you have children, the litter pan will need to be placed in a place that your children can't get to, but the kitten can have access easily.

Cats can teach child compassion and caring, and provide companionship. However, before you bring a kitten or even an older cat into your home, consider your lifestyle and expectations. Then go out and choose the pet accordingly. A kitten will be a wonderful and amazing pet, and bring hours of delight for the children, as well as the adults.

Grooming your kitten encourages a healthy shine on his fur and keeps him looking sleek and healthy. As with all good habits, it's sensible to establish good grooming early on, so it becomes a normal part of your kitten's life. Groom them regularly for your kitten safety please follow your vet's instructions carefully when it comes to worming and other treatments.

For your kitten safety anything found on the floor becomes a toy, so keep floor areas clear of things that may hurt them or that they can swallow. You may want to have a yard stick so that when she bats it away you will be able to retrieve your lost items from under the refrigerator, stove, and furniture. Special note: don't know why, but anything that can be pushed off a flat smooth surface probably will be, so place your breakables high up where kitty can't get them or in a closed cabinet or closet. Remember these guys just love a challenge!

You're vet is always ready to answer any questions about caring of your kitten safety. Please feel free to bring a list with you or call at any time. Remember it is the behavior you dislike, not the cat, so don't simply rush to give your cat up for adoption if they are being troublesome to you. Most aggressive problems in cats have very simple fixes that with a little time and energy can help your cat be the sweet, lovable pet you want.

NOTE: This article is for information only. See your veterinarian for medical advice.

We plan to post articles that are informative and helpful to other cat lovers. Having been "owned" by cats for years, we know they can be demanding, but also be very entertaining and fun. Best House Cat Care Visit our website for products your cat may enjoy http://www.besthousecatcare.com

Introducing a New Cat Part 2

By Doris J Canova

The next stage to introducing a new cat into your home is to permit the cats to spend time together. Carefully supervise their reaction toward each other. It is good to bring the cats together when they are likely to be relatively calm, such as after a meal or a strenuous play session. Keep a squirt bottle handy in case the cats begin to fight. As the cats become more familiar with each other, allow for longer periods of time together.

Be sure to consider the layout of your home. Some cats like to sit up high, on shelves and on kitty condo perches. A frightened cat will want to hide inside, under, and behind things, so make sure there are hiding places. Keep feeders, water bowls, and litter pans out in the open so the cats do not feel trapped when accessing these areas.

This two-week acclamation period should prove to be an advantage for both cats. It will help the older cat get use used to the idea of having another cat on its turf while the new cat will be busy adjusting to the new home. Since a new home often means a different feeder and litter pan as well as new routines and environments, starting off in a small, cozy space will help keep stress level to a minimum. It's important the new cat have its own litter pan and bowls so that sharing food or illness won't an issue. If the new cat were to come down with an upper respiratory infection, as some feline adoptees do, they won't be sneezing on the other cat or sharing germs via a communal water bowl.

Things have proceeded well. Both cats are eating normally and appear playfully curious about the other. And so comes the day for their first meeting. After feeding the cats and trimming their nails, as with children there comes a time when you leave the room. Leaving the door ajar, we know that it will be up to the two of them to take the next step. Aware that a little hissing, swatting and chasing is to be expected, you will have to step in only if World War III were to start.

Thanks to your careful selection and a slow, cautious introductory period, no one gets hurt and that a little patience, and a lot of love is all that is needed. With love and understanding, they will be playfully chasing each other around the house and napping in a shared patch of afternoon sunlight. Their well planned introduction should result in perfect harmony between the two of them.

We plan to post articles that are informative and helpful to other cat lovers. Having been "owned" by cats for years, we know they can be demanding, but also be very entertaining and fun. Best House Cat Care Visit our website for products your cat may enjoy http://www.besthousecatcare.com.

Feline Anxiety and Stress

By Doris J Canova

Cats want to do today what they did yesterday and plan to do tomorrow what they did today. Cats in particular, it seems do not want to have anything to do with change in their environment or even any type of confusion. When their normal surroundings are piled high with everything that was once in another room, they sometimes decide to spray on those things to lower their sweet little feline anxiety/anxiety levels.

Cats like to know when and were their human mom and dad are coming and going, so they can adjust their schedules accordingly. If you or your partner takes a new job with late night hours, or work real early in the morning, this can drastically change your household routine and lifestyle and your cat may develop feline anxiety/stress because of it.

Feline anxiety and stress seems to be worse in indoor cats, presumably as a result of their smaller living space. In single cat households, the presence of neighbor's cats in built up areas may act as a stress factor. Cat Toys will teach you how to take care of your cat's exercise needs which is important for many reasons including relieving stress.

When the feline anxiety and stress level continually increases, at some point there will be a behavioral response from that cat. Once the cat has shown a behavioral response, the stress response starts to decline. Stress responses occur in response to both 'good' and 'bad' changes in the cat's environment. As a cat owner, you should know that urine marking (as one possible behavioral response) is highly motivated and that this is just a normal behavior that can be brought on by feline anxiety and stress. It should be noted that it is not unusual for a cat to have a medical problem when the behavior history says that it is only a behavioral problem. For instance, blood tests may be necessary to determine if a medical problem, such as kidney disease, is contributing to the spraying.

Other signs of feline anxiety and stress you may see are excessive grooming or biting at the tail or back. Control is best achieved by decreasing the motivation to perform the behavior. The cat environment of today has been changed considerably over the many years since they have been domesticated and they have adapted by changing a great deal of their instinctive behavior. It should be noted that wild cats avoid humans totally, and that true wild cats cannot be tamed just by raising them in a human household.

There are many causes of feline anxiety and stress and it varies from cat to cat. If you observe your cat closely and try to keep changes in their life and surroundings to a minimum, there should not be a problem.

NOTE: This article is for information only. See your veterinarian for medical advice.

We plan to post articles that are informative and helpful to other cat lovers. Having been "owned" by cats for years, we know they can be demanding, but also be very entertaining and fun. Best House Cat Care Visit our website for products your cat may enjoy http://www.besthousecatcare.com.

Sexy New Pink Pet Tags For Small Dogs Or Cats - Safety Danglers

By Simon Dutton

THIS ALSO APPLIES TO CATS!!

The number of dogs that are being killed on UK roads is increasing each year as a result of car accidents. Dog owners could be responsible for costs and even liable to criminal charges. If that's not adding to the stress of the incident, you as the owner of the dog could also be liable for all rectification costs and possibly be prosecuted under the Road Traffic Act.

The Road Traffic Act classes a dog as an animal that is not free to roam, unlike sheep and cattle. Therefore, the dog owner will be responsible for the dog's actions on the public highway. If it can be proved in court that the accident was due to the dog being on the road, the dog owner will be liable for the costs which can sometimes be thousands of pounds.

This is what happened to June Lillis, when her dog Sebastian, was hit and killed by a car. She suffered the agony of losing her dog and the stress of the financial burden of paying for the damage to the driver's car. She explained:

"At first the driver was only concerned for Sebastian, and he helped my eldest son take him into our house. But a couple of weeks after the accident, we received a letter from his insurers advising us that we were at fault for the accident, and therefore the damage to the car. Luckily, the damage only cost £70 to repair, but we were shocked to learn we were responsible. The crash happened at night, and the driver said he never saw the dog, but we chalked it up to a tragic accident. When my husband rang the man's insurers, they advised him that we would have to go to court to prove we were not at fault."

Campaigners for road safety are advising cyclists and pedestrians to wear clothing that is highly visible, especially at night and during winter. Dogs are often walked off their leads or they escape from their owners properties. They can seem to appear from nowhere and often when it is too late to take avoiding action.

Gloweasy supply Pet Reflective Danglers to help prevent these avoidable accidents.

All of our Reflective Danglers are made from a high visibility reflective prismatic PVC.

The Gloweasy Dangler's are made by sandwiching a foam centre with flexible reflective materials both sides, this produces a product that is soft, pliable and very tactile. The type of attachment varies, but they are extremely effective hanging from your Dog's collar for safety.

The disc is 2 inches (50mm) in diameter and has a high visibility paw design on both sides. Also reflective on both sides with a strong dog clip connector. When in place they hang approx 90mm (3.5") and they clip quickly to virtually any collar or lead and are just as easily removed when the pet is indoors. Being double sided, their highly reflective surfaces can be illuminated from many directions. They are even more effective when worn in a cluster of two or more.

Other applications see them working very well as luggage tags or bag tags, so attached to a child's school bag will also safeguard them at night.

For more info click here http://www.gloweasy.com/reflective-danglers/index1.html

More Mistakes New Cat Owners Shouldn't Make

By Rebeca Rambal

Allowing a Cat to Roam Free Outdoors

Many people believe cats are happier being free, breathing fresh air, and basking in the sunshine of an outdoor life, while many others can assure you that cats can be very happy and healthy living totally indoors. The outdoors offers dangers not found inside and that cannot be denied. Fortunately, there are many compromises that will give you and your cat the best of both worlds, while keeping him or her safe and happy.

Poor Litter Box Maintenance

Cats will always use their litter box, as long as it's kept very clean, and the litter is not scented or unpleasant to the cats' feet. Carefully maintaining your cat's litter box will almost always guarantee you that you will not be faced with litter box avoidance problems.

However, if your cat suddenly starts urinating outside the box despite your careful maintenance, you should immediately have it checked for a urinary tract problem with your veterinarian.

A Cat is Not Property

When you join the ranks of cat lovers, you'll find that we refer to our cats as family members, rather than "pets." While cats may legally be considered "property" in some jurisdictions, the term ends there. If you haven't figured out the distinction by now, your new cat will let you know in no uncertain terms. In fact, many cat lovers describe themselves as being owned by their cats!

Ignoring Them

We always hear that cats are independent and should just be left alone. You will soon find out that they are very loving creatures that long for their human's company. They will follow you around like a puppy, and will want to play with you. Play with them to keep them sharp and interested. The more toys they have the better, and you don't have to spend a fortune. You'll find how to make cheap toys in later articles.

Not Allowing a Cat to Be a Cat

Cats' unique ways make them the endearing creatures they are. Some of their traits, however, may cause frustration because we don't understand their needs. Cats instinctively seek out high places and sharpen their claws because they are cats, not because they are stubborn and disobedient. Our job is to accommodate those needs in acceptable ways.

Forcing Your Love on Them

They are so cute! You just want to eat them up, hug them and squeeze them. But this is the fastest way to annoy them and make it harder to bond with them in the long run. Although many cats are all for it, many others are not quite as eager to be hugged. Take your cues from them, they will let you know what they like, never doubt that.

If you want to read more stories and find very useful information about your cats and dogs, please visit me at http://www.yourpetsuniverse.com

Mistakes New Cat Owners Shouldn't Make

By Rebeca Rambal

Getting a cat is a big step and there are some mistakes one should avoid. Cats have a reputation for taking care of themselves, but that doesn't mean they don't need any care. Before deciding to adopt that beautiful kitten, take the time to do some homework, thus avoiding these common mistakes made by new cat owners. That way you will have a happier and healthier cat and a long-term companionship with another living being, the like of which you never dreamed.

Adopting in a Rush

If you feel the impulse to buy a new shirt, or a new pair of shoes, you can always return it if it doesn't fit right or if it's the wrong color. But adopting a living creature like a cat or kitten, that will become a family member, is a different matter.

Adopting a new cat should be for keeps, so consider carefully before you make that decision.

You need to know that it's going to cost money to support it. You have to get toys, food, litter boxes, veterinary visits, etc. You owe it to your new cat to take care of his basic needs, as well as being prepared for emergencies.

Not Spay or Neuter a New Cat

People who failed to spay or neuter their cats always complain of male cats spraying every available surface of the house or escaping outdoors to fight other male cats; female cats who keep the whole family awake with their loud yowling during estrus; and worse yet, "surprise" litters of unwanted kittens. Society faces an overwhelming cat population problem and that is reason enough to spay and neuter. Spaying or neutering your cat will also have many health advantages, so you have no reason not to do it.

Not Giving Needed Veterinary Treatment

Cats may quickly recover from minor illnesses, but they can also die if an emergency isn't recognized. Cats need vaccinations, annual examinations, and they definitely need and deserve immediate veterinary care when they become sick or injured.

First Thing to do is choosing a good veterinarian.

Wrong Cat Food Choices

You might save some money by buying cheap cat food, but then you'll have to spend much more on veterinary care. Cats are carnivores and need a good source of meat protein. They do not need large amounts of grain fillers, especially corn, which is a cheap source of protein used by many cat food manufacturers. Learn how to choose cat food and select the best brands you can afford. Your cat might eat less of the high quality food because they don't have to gorge to get the nutrients they need.

Declawing Without All the Facts

Many innocent new cat owners have been convinced to declaw when a veterinarian asks: "Do you want your kitten declawed when we spay her?" Some veterinarians consider declawing a "routine" surgery, but cat advocates consider it cruel, inhumane, and unnecessary in almost every case and I totally agree. Learn the facts so that you can make an informed decision.

If you want to read more stories and find very useful information about your cats and dogs, please visit me at http://www.yourpetsuniverse.com

Your Guide to Cat Urinating Issues

By Laura Ramirez

Cat urinating issues can compromise your cat's quality of life, be painful, frustrate you, and if you have to take your cat to the vet, burn a big hole in your wallet. In this article, you'll learn how to attend to your pet's urinary problems and what to do to prevent them from recurring in the future.

Reasons for Cat Not Urinating

The most frequent urinary health issue in cats is a urinary tract infection (UTI). The signs of a UTI are straining during urination, foul-smelling urine, blood in the urine and urinating in places other than the litter box.

An other possibility is feline urinary tract disease (FLUTD). Symptoms of this are urinating outside the litter box, lethargy and lack of appetite. If your kitty exhibits any of the symptoms noted in this article, take her to the vet.

Since the ability to eliminate stored toxins from the bladder regularly is essential to your kitty's health, follow the steps in the next section to prevent urinary problems in the future.

Preventing Cat Urinating Issues

It's been said that prevention is worth a pound of cure. By understanding that felines are genetically predisposed to certain health issues, you can prevent them by taking the proper steps:

• Always make sure your cat has fresh, clean water.
  
• Keep your cat's litter box clean. If you have more than one cat, give each its own litter box.
  
• Feed your cat moist food that is made of high quality protein.
  
• Give your cat a daily supplement to support healthy bladder function.

Although every action item on the list above is essential, you may not be aware of the importance of giving your cat a daily supplement. The right supplement prevents urinary problems by adjusting the pH of the urine to keep the urinary tract free of bacteria and soothes bladder tissues with herbs to keep them free of inflammation.

After watching my kitty suffer through all the pain of cat not urinating problems that were due to a urinary tract infection, I did some research and found a supplement in granular form that was easy to administer. Every day, I put some granules in my cat's mouth and they dissolve on contact. My kitty seems to like them (she even jumps up on the counter next to the supplement bottle every morning) and has not had any cat urinating issues since we started this daily routine.

Of course, since felines are sensitive, makes sure to do your research before giving your kitty a supplement.

Laura Ramirez is a passionate researcher of natural remedies which heal urinary tract disorders and keep pets vibrant and healthy. To learn more about her findings, go to http://www.pet-ut-health.com

Why is My Cat Urinating in the House? - A Checklist of Answers

By Laura Ramirez

A cat urinating in your house can be frustrating for you, but could also mean that your kitty is stressed or has a serious health issue. In this article, you'll find a checklist for determining why your cat is urinating outside the litter box and what you can do about it.

Why Is My Cat Urinating in the House?

To answer this, ask yourself the following questions:

• Has something changed recently that could have stressed out my cat? For instance, have you moved or rearranged the furniture? If you have moved, your cat may be marking territory that was marked by the previous owner's animals. If so, hire a professional carpet cleaner and pay extra for the application of a product that will eliminate pet odors. If you have rearranged the furniture, give your cat time to get used to the new arrangement.
  
  
• When you see your cat urinating in house, what does its body position look like? When a cat is spraying, it points its rear toward an upright surface. This is how you can tell the difference between marking territory and urinating.
  
  
• If have more than one cat or have recently brought home a new kitty, does each cat have it's own litter box? If not, they should. If you have brought home a new animal, your cat may be marking territory in a show of dominance over the new kitty.
  
  
• Is there a new person living in your home? Your cat may be reacting to this person with a show of dominance. Cats are creatures of habit and are very sensitive to disruptions in their routine. If this is the problem, give your cat time to adjust.
  
  
• Does your cat have a urinary tract infection? To find out, look for the following signs:
  • Pain during urination.
    
    
  • Cat urinating in house (rather than in the litter box). See above for the difference between spraying and urination. (The answer to the question why is my cat urinating in house may mean it's time to take your cat to the vet.) Cats urinate in the house because they associate painful urination with the litter box.
    
    
  • Bad-smelling urine.
    
    
  • Blood in the urine.

If your cat has a urinary tract infection, take her to the vet. Although your vet will probably prescribe antibiotics, keep in mind that they do have side effects. Instead of giving your pet antibiotics, you may want to consider natural remedies instead. They are just as effective as antibiotics, but have no side effects.

Best of all, natural remedies can be used for treatment and prevention. Used daily, a supplement will support bladder health by keeping the tissues healthy and infection-free. Taking the steps to prevent a common health issue in your cat is the best way to ensure your cat has a long and healthy life. it may also mean that you will never again have to answer the question: why is my cat urinating in house?

Before giving your cat a supplement, make sure to do your research.

Laura Ramirez is a passionate researcher of natural remedies which heal urinary tract disorders and keep pets vibrant and healthy. To learn more about her findings, go to http://www.pet-ut-health.com.

Feline UTI Remedies For Treatment & Prevention

By Laura Ramirez

Feline UTI (Urinary Tract Infections) can be painful and dangerous to your cat's health. In this article, you'll learn the three most common warning signs of cat UTI and a natural and cost effective means of treating and preventing recurring infections.

First, the symptoms:

Cat UTI Warning Signs

• Crying or howling during urination
• Blood in the urine
• Your cat urinates outside of the litter box. (This is because she associates the litter box with painful urination.)

If your cat has any of these symptoms, take her to the vet. The vet will likely prescribe antibiotics and since these drugs can cause side effects, you should be aware that there are natural alternatives that work just as well.

If your kitty has previously had a feline UTI, she has an increased chance of recurring infections. Although urinary tract infections in cats are less frequent than in dogs, they are usually more serious, so it pays to know your cat's litter box habits. This way, changes in behavior will be obvious.

Since recurring urinary tract infections are painful and expensive to diagnose and treat, you may want to consider using natural alternatives.

Natural remedies work just like antibiotics to clear up a cat UTI. Since they do not have side effects, you can continue to give them to your cat on a daily basis to prevent recurring infections. Unlike drugs, natural remedies actually work to improve bladder health and strengthen immunity, keeping your kitty safe and happy.

After doing some research, I found a supplement that comes in granular form that uses natural tonics like Arctostaphylos uva ursi that creates proper pH levels in the bladder. When I give it to my kitty, I just put some sprinkles in her mouth and they dissolve as they make contact with the saliva. This makes it easy to administer and even kitty seems to look forward to our daily ritual.

Before giving your cat a natural remedy to treat or prevent a feline UTI, make sure to do your research. For instance, check to ensure the ingredients in the supplement are standardized, so it will continue to be effective over time.

Laura Ramirez is a cat lover and passionate researcher of natural remedies which heal cat urinary tract disorders and keep pets vibrant and healthy. To learn more about her findings, go to http://www.pet-ut-health.com.

Feline UTI - Look For These 5 Telltale Signs of a Cat UTI

By Kate Rieger

Often feline UTI, or feline urinary tract infection, is mistaken as a behavioral problem with your cat. If you find your cat is urinating in odd places, or missing her litter box, she may be suffering from a cat UTI. Here are some tips for spotting this condition in your cat.

If you notice you cat is licking his genital area more often than usual you need to look for other signs of a feline UTI. Here are 5 telltale signs that your precious is suffering from a cat urinary tract infection.

1) He licks, and licks and licks in his genital area


2) He misses his litter box (more than usual)


3) He becomes withdrawn and doesn't participate in playtime


4) He starts biting or nibbling on his rear-end


5) He 'takes off' in a spastic episodes

Now if you experienced a UTI you knew it because you experienced a burning and itching in you lower tract. Its just the same for your cat - except he can only lick down there to sooth the discomfort.

He may be missing the litter box. Because he is experiencing a burning sensation when he urinates, his reaction is to stop and reposition himself and maybe even lick his genitals before finishing his potty. Whoops, he missed the inside of the litter box again.

He just feels miserable and is nervous about moving about once his itching settles down. While you try to entice him into playtime, he prefers to sit on the couch and stare at you.

When he is experiencing a feline UTI, he may resort to biting and nibbling his rear-end. You can probably relate to a similar desire to scrape at your crotch when you had a human UTI.

Statistically, dogs experience UTI more often than cats do. However, male cats experience feline urinary tract disorders, including feline UTI, more than female cats. It all has to do with the size of their urethra, the tube that carries the urine out of the cat's body. The male cat's urethra is narrower and more prone to blockage.

A cat suffering from a cat UTI needs human intervention. Now cranberry juice may have worked for your UTI, but your cat may also respond to natural remedies to treat a feline UTI. More vets are turning towards herbal solutions instead of traditional synthetic chemicals. Talk to your vet about using natural remedies for a feline urinary tract infection.

Just like cranberry juice or apple cider cured your human UTI, cats often get immediate relief using mixtures of herbs proven to clear up even the most toxic cases of feline UTI. By taking preventative action now, you can help keep your pet happy and healthy!

Natural remedies play a large part in maintaining wellness. After all, natural solutions cured your human UTI - they can work for a cat UTI too.

Better yet, help your cat stick to a simple pet health care program that actually prevents feline UTI. There are a several natural solutions you can find that prevent this painful and chronic problem in your cat.

Kate Rieger has been owned by 15+ cats and is a champion of natural remedies for her own cats and her feral cat neighbors. While she would like to extend simple, natural care to every pet in the neighborhood, she takes it one animal at a time. Kate is on good behavior during her speaking engagements at various organizations where she spreads the word about natural alternatives to pet ailments. Drop by and pick up more free tips at Pet-Natural-Remedies.com and heal your cat today.

Finding the Right Cat Health Insurance Plan

By Joe Hayes

Pet owners love their pets, and cat owners are no exception. In fact, ensuring the health of your beloved cat should be the number one priority for cat owners. Unfortunately, rising veterinary healthcare costs are making it more difficult to get the treatments necessary to both prevent and cure common cat health problems.

To help insure your and your family can afford to care for your cat should a major medical condition arise, cat health insurance has become more common. There are several major, established health insurance companies specializing in feline healthcare. Before choosing a healthcare provider for your cat, there are a few things you should take into consideration.

The level of Healthcare coverage available for your cat can vary dramatically between different providers and their various health plans. Some things, such as urinalysis and vaccinations may not be covered under basic plans; whereas everything from x-rays, heartworm, flea control, cancer, prescriptions and even dental work may be available with the premium healthcare plans.

Another thing to consider is what's not going to be covered. Usually pre-existing conditions and hereditary disorders common to certain breeds of cats won't be covered. Even typical cat issues such as behavioral problems and parasites might not be covered depending on the type of cat health insurance plan you're considering.

It's also difficult to find a cat health insurance plan that covers routine physical examinations, spay or neutering, vaccines and teeth cleaning - although with the right healthcare plan you may find these treatments available with or without a deductible.

It's important to sit down with your pet insurance advisor and explain all the potential conditions you want to ensure your cat is covered for, and ask him or her to explain all the conditions your cat may not be covered for. Pet health insurance providers are much more educated in this aspect, so don't expect to outsmart them. Instead, rely on your provider to educate you so that you may purchase the best plan for your money while ensuring your cat will live a long, healthy, happy and protected life.

Joe Hayes is a lifelong cat lover and provides more information about cat health insurance at CatHealth.us, a comprehensive and informative cat health resource. Love your cat, and in return you will be loved back.

Cat Condos - The Perfect Alternative to Your Cat Sleeping on Your Pillow

By Jennifer Akre

You are sick of going to bed only to find your feline sawing logs on your pillow. Then, when you shoo him off, he just gets angry and bothers you all during the night trying to get back on his cozy little sleeping spot. Well, it sounds like you need to give him his own place to sleep with cat condos being a great way to provide him with just that.

Why do cat condos provide your pet with a nice place to get some z's? The answer is a simple one and it is because of how they are designed. Typically, one will have a cylindrical type shape and openings to a compartment like area where your cat can go into and feel safe and secure when it sleeps. They will be crafted out of durable materials like wood and carpeting with the wood being used as the structure's base while the carpeting then covers it to make it nice and comfortable for your little furball. They can feature anywhere between two to four compartments and those compartments can either sit on top of each other creating a selection that sits higher off the ground. Or, those compartments can line-up horizontally next to each other, perfect for if you have an older cat who has a problem jumping. The multiple compartment areas are also ideal for if you have more than one cat too or if you have a cat that likes variety.

Maybe your furry companion already has a nice place to sleep and what you are really looking for is a nice spot for your kitty to play instead of all over your furniture. What would be a good choice for you then would be to purchase a cat tree for him or her. It actually has the shape of a real tree with a pole type middle post that has smaller poles sticking out if it. Like the cat condos, they will typically be made out of wood and carpeting. There are also deluxe options available too including kitty gyms that have perches, hanging toys, ramps, and even tunnels built right into them offering your companion one top notch place to get rid of its energy. If you do not have enough room for something big, a scratching post is always a nice idea too so your cat can scratch to its heart content.

If cat condos sound like something that you want to invest in, then turn to the Internet to do your comparison shopping for one. It is really a fast way to see all the choices without you even taking one step outside of your home to do it. Plus, when you do buy something, it will be sent right to your home so no wasting time, energy, and money with a trip to the store.

When it comes down to it, if you are sick of your four legged friend using your pillow as a place to rest, then give him his own sleeping spot by turning to cat condos. One would definitely be a solid purchase.

Author Jennifer Akre is a proprietor of a different online specialty shops that provide both items and information on how to effortlessly furnish and decorate your space. Whether it is your living, bedroom, or even your deck or patio, there are many useful tips you to make those spots functional and beautiful. Today, she offers advice on how make your new furry companion feel right at home with lovely cat supplies and puppy supplies. They are something that every pet needs.

Cat Carriers - They Keep Your Kitty Safe While on the Go

By Jennifer Akre

Did you know that it is not safe to just drive somewhere with your feline sitting right next to you in the passenger seat? Really, you should not let your cat just roam free when the two of you are on the go.

And, that is why cat carriers are such a must have item for your furry companion.

Cat carriers provide a safe place for your kitty to sit or lie down while in transit. This is really nice when you are driving in the car with him or her because then you do not have to worry about him or her running all over the place while the two of you are on the road. It will keep you from getting distracted as well, thus keeping you and the other motorists safe.

What is nice about cat carriers is how there are actually quite a few different options to choose from so you can find just the right one for your feline. For instance, if you have a bigger cat, you can purchase a bigger one. There are also medium and smaller sized selections offered as well. Or, maybe you want something that is extremely portable and can be easily stowed away when it is not being used, then one than one that is crafted from a combination of softer materials with a collapsible plastic tubed frame would be more of what you are looking for.

The options do not end there either as there are a plethora of other cat carriers to pick from as well. Like, you can get ones that actually look like fashionable hand bags, perfect for if you are on a trip or something and not only want to give your kitty a comfortable place to enjoy the traveling, but you want to look as well during the process. There are also selections made entirely of hard plastic, ideal for if you cat is traveling by itself on a plane or something so that you know he or she will be well protected even if things get bumpy on the plane ride. A few of the other choices that are out there include back pack type options, messenger bag selections, and there are the traditional ones made from metal that are still available as well.

One great way to check out all the cat carriers that you could possibly purchase is by hitting the Internet for some online shopping. In no time at all will you be able to look at the different choices just by the glide and click of your computer mouse. What is even nicer is that when you do decide on something, it will be shipped right to you so no having to spend time or money on a trip to the store. If you do go this route, make sure that you buy it ahead of time before your trip, that way you do not have to worry about whether or not it will get to you in time.

So, if you want to keep your kitty safe while traveling, turn to cat carriers. One is definitely an item that every feline owner should own.

Author Jennifer Akre is a proprietor of a different online specialty shops that provide both items and information on how to effortlessly furnish and decorate your space. Whether it is your living, bedroom, or even your deck or patio, there are many useful tips you to make those spots functional and beautiful. Today, she offers advice on how to make your furry companion feel right at home with dependable cat furniture and reliable pet supplies Each would be a nice purchase.

Thirst Increase in Cats

By James Gosling

Those of you who have cats need to be aware of all the pet health related problems that may affect your cat within their lifetime. One of the most common of these problems might be an increase in thirst. This is a pet health issue that shouldn't be taken lightly and will need immediate attention.

One of the most severe pet health problems is CRF or chronic renal failure and one of the most common symptoms is an increased thirst for water accompanied by excessive urination. You can find more information regarding this disease from your vet. It is very important to have your pet health questions answered by your vet because the more knowledge you have, the more easily you will be able to recognize the symptoms and take action.

Chronic renal failure is a severe pet health problem that will induce changes your cat's overall appetite and increase his thirst. The appetite can vary from one cat to another but mostly is on the decreasing side. You might even find your cat acting finicky and it will be tough to guess what they really want. In such a condition, the stool will most often be dry and firm but there will be an increase in urination.

This can lead to dehydration and make their coat quality poor. Their faces will bear a pinched look and the body temperature might be lower than normal. If you feel their kidneys then it will have a lump feel. The best way to confirm renal problems is through urinalysis and blood tests. Based on the analysis, the vet will be able to guide you towards proper pet health care and restrictions in diet.

Chronic kidney failure, otherwise known as Chronic Renal Failure (CRF) or Chronic Renal Insufficiency (CRI), is a progressive deterioration of kidney function over a relatively long period of time (typically months to years). Acquired kidney diseases are the cause of most cases of kidney failure in cats, and tend to manifest in middle to old age and is a regular pet health question.

Some of the more common diseases are listed below.

Chronic tubulo-interstitial nephritis is the most commonly identified problem in cats suffering from CRF. It is often the end-stage of many causes of kidney disease, where damaged nephrons (the functional unit of kidney tissue) are replaced with fibrous tissue. Typically affected kidneys will be small and scarred.

Glomerulonephritis is a disease in which the glomeruli (which help filter urine from the blood), are damaged by inflammation.

Pyelonephritis is the name for a bacterial infection of the kidneys.

Amyloidosis is a disorder by which insoluble protein fibres are deposited in various organs of the body. When it occurs in the kidneys, their function is impaired and chronic renal failure can result. Amyloidosis can be seen as an inherited condition in Abyssinian cats.

Hydronephrosis is an excessive accumulation of urine in the kidney caused by an obstruction or blockage in the ureter - the tube linking the kidney to the bladder.

Renal lymphoma is a cancer of white blood cells affecting the kidney. Typically both kidneys will be very enlarged if this condition is present.

Normally, the creatine and BUN levels will be highly elevated during the test analysis apart from Amylase and phosphorous levels. Potassium will be on the lower side. The treatment of such pet health condition will be directed mostly at supporting the body and other organs keeping in mind that one of the organs might fail. This is a progressive pet health condition and the amount of support required will be determined only after clinical tests and laboratory findings have been confirmed.

Normally your cat will go through extensive dehydration and will require more and more water to keep him going. As a result of this, you will see a remarkable increase in his thirst and however high the amount of water intake be, he will still be feeling thirsty. The best thing to do in such a scenario is to visit the vet immediately for a diagnosis and get him into a pet health care program as soon as possible.

If you need further information on pet health, including articles and a pet forum visit our resource centre. We also have a great directory of pet health issues with pet health questions on hundreds of related subjects.

Cat Litter Box Reduced Tracking - A Litter Box Accessory

By Ian Pennington

Strange as it may seem the cat litter reduced tracking items are called litter box accessories and are sold along with scoops, sprays and other such items. These mats and carpets are vital to keeping the area around your cat's(s') litter box clean especially if the litter box is in an area you share with it. If your cat's litter box is in the bathroom that you share with it you know it's no joy to get up in the morning, to brush your teeth, and have your bare feet step on litter. It's really not just the litter that clings to the cat's paws that is tracked but also the litter that the cat uses to cover its waste. Some cats very aggressively dig in the litter to be sure the waste is covered completely and in the course of doing so they spray litter all over the floor. There are several kinds of cat litter reduced tracking products you can choose from and we will cover three of them here.

Tufted rubber mats come in both half circle and large oversize for under a large litter box. These mats are sturdy and do an excellent job of cleaning the litter from the cat's paws as well as catching the litter that the cat sprays around the bathroom in its aggressive housecleaning. In catching the litter that is sprayed out of the box this mat does a very good job of trapping it and protecting the floor. These mats, in spite of their large size, are attractive and reasonably priced between $12 and $18.

Another cat box litter reduced tracking product is the scented linen mat. A soft fabric, it keeps the area around the litter box clean and odor free. In addition, it keeps the litter from scattering and whisks away the moisture carried from the litter box. It has a non-slip backing, as do most area rugs, keeping the mat in place. This mat can be washed and dried in your home laundry. The price range is somewhere about $12.

Last but not the least of the cat litter reduced tracking systems is the polyethylene mat considered to be the toughest and best of them all. It is extra large to fit under the largest of litter boxes (it also comes in the regular size) and although it is not green in color its pile looks like grass. It has the look of a shag rug where the pile stands up straight. Because of its stiff pile this mat is supposed to do a better job of cleaning the cat's paws than all other mats. The price range for this mat is about $10 for the regular size and about $16 for the large size.

No matter which system you decide to buy be sure that your cat approves of it. Some cats do not like certain types of materials under their paws but, .most cats would approve of the carpet type pile.

Ian Pennington is an accomplished niche website developer and author. To learn more about cat litter box reduced tracking, please visit Best Litter Boxes Online for current articles and discussions.

3 Easy Tips For a Fresher Litter Box

By E. Llamas

If you're like most cat owners, then you may be wondering how to keep your cat's litter box clean. You may also wonder about the best way to keep the urine odor from seeping through your entire home.

Sadly, one of the main reasons why those smelly litter pan odors exist is due to improper box maintenance! Unfortunately, a dirty litter pan is also a big reason why many cats will exhibit inappropriate elimination or litter box rejection.

The best solution (to keep you and kitty happy) is to keep your litter box as clean as possible which will really help eliminate odors.

Here are 3 top tips to keep your litter pan clean and fresh.

• Use clumping litter



One of the best ways to ensure you pick up all excrement is to use clumping cat litter. Why? Usually when you clean the litter box you use the sifter or shovel. If you use non-clumping cat litter what ends up happening is the urine soaked clay is not thoroughly removed during cleaning.

Clumping litter (either clays or other natural materials) have an amazing ability to soak up many times their weight in liquid, forming a solid mass that can easily be scooped up.

If you buy non-clumping litter... what ends up happening is you scoop out whatever you can but there are still bits of soiled litter left over, which makes it almost impossible to pick up.

Whatever is left will cause those dreaded odors until you completely change out the litter for a fresh batch and then it begins all over again!

Do yourself and your cat a favor and buy clumping cat litter. Note: Clumping litter is not recommended for kittens under 2 months old.

• Clean a minimum of 2 times a day



Your cat's litter pan should never be allowed to become filthy. If you find it hard to clean the litter box the recommended bare minimum then you need to increase the number of boxes you have. So if one is soiled she'll have another to go to.

Just like you, your cat does not want to step on urine and poop when she goes to the bathroom.

Remember that a cat has a very sharp sense of smell. So if it smells bad to you then imagine what she thinks about it!

While you're cleaning be sure to also clean your litter scooper because it tends to get very dirty as well.

After sifting all dirty litter, it's good to spot clean the litter box by using a bleach and water solution. Wipe down the soiled area of the litter pan and dry well, then smooth the litter back into place.

• Fill the litter pan 3-4" deep

When I first read the 3-4" recommendation... I thought, "Are they insane? That's wasting a lot of litter!"

However, when I tried it out I realized I'm really saving more money in the long run ...let me tell you why....

If you fill the litter 3-4" deep then you make it harder for your cat to dig to the bottom of the litter pan! Which makes it less likely that urine will seep to the bottom of the box and become a disgusting, smelly mess that has to be changed out every few days.

Once you try this, you'll realize that you'll need to switch out the whole batch of litter less often. All you need to do is scoop up the clumps! Add the spot cleaning as noted above and you're on your way to a fresher smelling litter pan.

Read more tips on eliminating odors and cat litter box cleaning or get more cat litter box related reviews and litter help. This article is free to publish with all links intact.

Why an Automatic Cat Feeder?

By Doris J Canova

Automatic cat feeders tend to fall into two main categories. The word "automatic" usually refers to a gravity type of system, while "electronic" is used to mean the type of feeder that offers portion and frequency control.

One of the advantages of having an automatic pet feeder is that using one will relieve you from having to ask someone to come feed the cat when you were out of town. Another advantage is that you will be able to provide regularity for your pet.

There is an electronic automatic cat feeder is designed to feed your pet at its normal meal times when you are away, or even when you are not. Some automatic pet feeders will provide 5 meals, others will provide 6, and still others will provide up to 8 meals. One model of these 8-compartment electronic pet feeders is programmable and holds over 96 ounces of food separated in eight different compartments. You can schedule feedings at the same time daily or at multiple times each day. Since it has room for ice packs below the feeder dish, you can feel safe in leaving wet canned pet food in the automatic pet feeder, as well.

The electronic pet feeders are a great solution for dispensing moist or dry food, treats, or medications on a regular or timed basis. An automatic feeder is a perfect choice for dispensing only dry food but keep in mind, the food is always available, not regulated. If your pet tends to overeat, the electronic feeder may be what it best for your needs.

Whether you chose either an automatic feeder or an electronic feeder, all you need to do is periodically refill them (and of course clean them). Either choice makes life simpler for you and provides consistency to your pet's life which helps to reduce stress.

We plan to post articles that are informative and helpful to other cat lovers. Having been "owned" by cats for years, we know they can be demanding, but also be very entertaining and fun. Best House Cat Care Visit our website for products your cat may enjoy http://www.besthousecatcare.com

Introducing a New Cat Part 1

By Doris J Canova

Some cats are very social and enjoy living with other cats, while others prefer to be solitary. If you are bringing a new cat into your home, understand that it will take time. The best advice is to introduce the cats gradually and be patient. It takes most cats about 2 months to develop a friendship with a new cat. There are cases where others never become friends and will simply avoid each other. Still others cases where they will fight until your only choice is to remove one of the cats.

If you are about to get a cat who has lived with other cats in the past, the odds are probably good that they will make an attempt to get along. That being said, it is hard to predict if the new cat will get along. There are no books for us that will tell us the best matches among cats. It is known that male cats become friends and seem to spend more time with each other. Be aware that the more cats you have, the higher the risk is that you will have conflicts between the cats.

The first impression the new cat makes with the older cat is critical. If the cat displays aggression, this may set the tempo as to how the relationship is going to be. Because of that, it is best to separate the cats in the beginning. The cats should be able to smell and hear, but not see or touch each other. Each cat should have his own cat feeder, water bowl, scratching post and cat bed. Also make sure you have a litter box for each cat and at least one extra. Trying to make them share will probably be out of the question. Feed the cats near the door that separates them so they learn that coming together is not the end of their world.

Even though they can't yet see each other, it still can be a pleasant experience. After 2-3 days, change places with each cat so that they can check out each other's smell. By doing this, you will also allow the new cat to explore a different part of the home. After a few more days, play with the cats near the door. This will encourage the cats to paw at a toy under the door. Eventually the cats may play paw game under the door with each other. Change is difficult for cats, so the introduction needs to move ahead slowly.

After about a week or so, assuming you doesn't see any signs of hissing, growling, you can try replacing the door with a temporary screen door so the cats are able to see each other. Continue to encourage feeding and playing near the door. Start this treatment near the door and, in a day, move even closer, till they see and almost touch each other.

We plan to post articles that are informative and helpful to other cat lovers. Having been "owned" by cats for years, we know they can be demanding, but also be very entertaining and fun. Best House Cat Care Visit our website for products your cat may enjoy http://www.besthousecatcare.com