Herbs - Herbal Remedy For Cats

By Sandi Green

It has been said that a pet resembles its owner and if you look at your friends and family you will find that the personalities of the pets often resemble that of the owners. For the most part pets live as their owners live. As pet owners we also give our pets lives similar to our own and for those of us that choose to seek out herbal treatments and herbal remedies for ourselves we often seek to obtain the same for our pets. When our pets have health problems we seek herbal remedies for them just as we would for ourselves. When our pet has a health problem we may seek an herbal remedy for cat, an herbal remedy for a dog, and our pets as well. Depending on the ailment there is probably a natural remedy for a cat, dog, or pet. There are also a homeopathic treatment for dogs and a homeopathic treatment for cats and there are holistic veterinarians that no longer stick to the traditional method of just providing man made drugs to our pets.

The number of natural remedies for cat, dogs, or other pets is broad and widely available.

A treatment of course differs from a cure and does not necessarily mean the cat or dog will not have the problem again. An herbal treatment for dogs or cats is just that a treatment and not a cure.

Pet owners should also be cautioned not try and substitute natural remedies for cats or dogs with vaccinations. There is always a risk involved in a vaccination and we often fear the worse when we give these to our children and pets, but statistically there is probably a higher risk involved in not giving vaccinations.

Herbal treatments can and often do improve a cat or dogs life, just as with a human being. In using herbal remedies you should treat your pet as you would a human. If the cat or do is pregnant do not give them herbal treatments and if there is an adverse reaction stop giving your pet the herbal treatment.

Holistic veterinarians have used many different herbal remedies for treatment of dogs and cats. One popular natural remedy for various ailments and health problems is Fennel. Fennel has been used as a natural herbal remedy for cats and dogs for a variety of ailments. Fennel has been used to treat indigestion, flatulence, coughs, stomach spasms, detoxification, and for upper respiratory inflammation. Another natural remedy for cats or dogs is Aloe. Aloe has been used as a natural remedy for cats and dogs to treat minor burns, stomach disorders, indigestion, skin irritations, cuts and wounds. Aloe is also believed to help regulate the kidneys, liver, and gall bladder, as well as healthy tissues, and also to aid blood and lymphatic circulation. Not surprisingly these natural remedies are also widely used by humans for substantially the same reasons, a natural herbal cat remedy is not much different than that for a dog or a human.

Buy Quality Herbal Remedies For Your Cat or Dog Here Herbal Remedy Cat

Sure Fire Way to Train Your Cat Safely, Quick and Effectively

By Ryan J D

It is truly amazing on how many cat owners just put up with their cats behavioral problems. Most cat owners do not put the time into training their cat as they simply think it can not be done. On the contrary cats are creatures of habit so once you break their bad habits with new ones, they will continue their lives the same NEW way and you will be much more happy!

Cat owners do not realize that almost all cats have the same aggression and behavioral problems so once a trainer figures out how to cure the problems, they perfect and continue to use it on the other cats. If that method does not work, they "tweek" it just a bit and it normally works out. This is how training starts out! Like I said earlier, since most problems are the same, these techniques proven by professionals tend to work on almost all cats and all cat breeds.

Our team has spent a lot of time buying and reading ebooks on how to train not only cats, but dogs, birds and even other domestic pets. Once we found some books we liked, our team used these techniques on their own pets. If the training passed our strict criteria, we put it to the final test. The final test was to have cat owners bring their cat to our training center and try it themselves. If they could do this with relative ease, we passed the product.

If you want to Train Your Cat yourself and not break the bank to do it you can visit a Cat Training website to review the top products we have approved for Cat Training and Cat Health. The best part is that in our review, you can see if there is a Money Back Guarantee. This will assure you a risk free purchase!

Ryan has written many articles in the pet training field and was even awarded "Expert Author" by many of the article directories. Again, to Train Your Cat click the link and you will be only minutes from training your cat.

Is a Home Cooked Diet the Best Cat Food Ever?

By Paul Kramer

Some owners prefer to make their cats' meals. This way they can control exactly what goes into their pets' food, and they know and trust what they are consuming. The ingredients are often natural and fresh, and depending on the food that you prepare for your cat, you can choose a non organic or organic home cooked diet or a raw diet.

Providing your cat with a home cooked diet is a lot of work. The meat, vegetables and other ingredients need to be lightly cooked and served to your cat warm. Food smells and tastes better to cats if it is at room temperature. If you decide to provide a home cooked diet, you will have to prepare batches of food every day or plan ahead and make enough to last for a few days by freezing the leftover portions. This means that you will be spending a lot of time cooking for your cat, freezing the extra meals and reheating them.

If you make batches of food ahead of time and freeze the leftovers to use later, do not defrost then in the microwave. Microwave ovens destroy essential enzymes and drain food of vitamins. Instead, leave the prepared food in the refrigerator to thaw slowly, or place the bag or container in a pot of hot water to thaw.

What kind of food goes into a home cooked or homemade diet? Practically anything humans would eat. The home cooked diet is basically a blend of meat, carbohydrates, fats, and vegetables. Some common ingredients include cooked chicken livers, gizzards, hearts, cooked ground beef, duck, venison, lamb, fish, turkey, sardines, cottage cheese, cooked eggs, carrots, broccoli, and other vegetables. If you are making homemade meals for your cat, you can also all baby food (meat or vegetables) into the mix.

Preparing meals for your feline friend can be a very expensive and time consuming process. If you want to feed a home cooked diet, talk to your veterinarian first. She will be able to educate you on nutritional requirements and can give you a few basic recipes to follow. Some cats with diseases or allergies have seen improved health conditions when switched to a home cooked diet. If you have a pet with a chronic illness or disease, ask your veterinarian if this diet could benefit him.

If you like cooking for your cat, there are many websites and books devoted to the subject, and many include recipes. However, always show your veterinarian any recipe you are going to use before you start feeding it to your cat, it never hurts to get a professional opinion.

To learn more about the different types of cat food or pet food for your dogs, cats, horse, etc., and how to get discount and cheap pet medications, make sure to visit http://www.callpetmeds.com where you will find everything on getting quality yet affordable pet medications as well as tips on how to take care of your pets like the experts.

How to Feed Your Older Cats Properly

By Paul Kramer

Because of their advanced age, senior and geriatric cats should be given special feeding considerations. Older cats can develop tooth problems and may find it hard to eat dry food. If that is the case with your senior cat, switch his diet to canned food or moisten the dry food with some canned food.

A cat's metabolism slows as he ages, and his senses of smell and taste begin to diminish. As a result, many older cats lose interest in food and become too thin. If your senior cat seems to have lost his appetite, try offering him some dry food soaked in warm chicken or beef broth. You also can switch to a canned food only diet. Canned food tastes and smells more appealing than dry food, and it is easier to digest.

When cats ages, they slow down and become less active. As a result, senior or geriatric cats require fewer calories than middle aged adult cats do. They need less protein in their diets than active adults. Too much protein can lead to kidney problems. Some owners give their older cats a specially formulated food designed for seniors. Ask your veterinarian if your cat needs a special diet or any vitamin supplements to keep him healthy and happy in his golden years.

Organic cat food

Organic cat and kitten food comes in several varieties and can be found in health food stores and pet supply stores. Organic foods contain ingredients that are grown or raised without pesticides, chemical fertilizers, growth hormones or antibiotics. There are no preservatives, chemical flavorings, colorings or other additives, so it does not have a long shelf life. It is also more expensive than other traditional types of cat food, but if you follow an organic diet for yourself, you may decide to do the same for your cat.

Homemade meals and supplements

If you are feeding your cat or kitten a home cooked diet, you need to add vitamin supplements to the food. You can purchase feline vitamin supplements from a veterinarian or at a pet supply store. These vitamins come either in a tablet form that can be crushed up and mixed with the food orin a liquid that can be given directly or added to the food.

If you give your cat or kitten a 100 percent balanced commercially prepared food, no supplements are needed. Adding extra vitamins to your cat's diet can be dangerous, so do not add them unless your veterinarian specifically instructs you to do so. The vet will tell you what type, dosage, and frequency of supplementation that your pet needs if any.

To learn more about the different types of pet food for your dogs, cats, horse, etc., and how to get discount and cheap pet medications, make sure to visit http://www.callpetmeds.com where you will find everything on getting quality yet affordable pet medications as well as tips on how to take care of your pets like the experts.

How the Experts Set a Feeding Schedule For Their Cats

By Paul Kramer

There are two feeding options available to cat owners - free feeding (also known as self feeding) and scheduled feeding. You can allow your cat or kitten to self feed by leaving a portion of dry food out all day. Your feline will be able to eat or snack whenever he wants. This is a good option for people who are at work odd hours. However, this type of feeding could lead to weight gain. If your cat eats all day because he is bored or lonely, he may become overweight.

If you feed canned food, you will have to set up a regular feeding schedule so that it does not spoil. You can feed your cat according to your own schedule, such as before you go to work or when you come home in the evening. Keep in mind, however, that once you set this schedule, you must stick to it. Your pet will rely on you for a regular feeding time. Kittens need to eat often, so if you use schedules feedings for a kitten, you will have to give him food several times a day.

Some owners do a combination of free feeding and schedules feeding. Before they leave for work, they put out a small portion of dry food for daytime consumption, and when they return home at the end of the day, they offer a schedules feeding portion. This sets up a routine for the cat and allows him to snack if he becomes hungry when his owner is not at home.

If you practice scheduled feedings and go away for a weekend trip or a vacation, someone will have to come to your house and feed your cat at the scheduled feeding times. A cat who free feeds on dry food may be left enough food for an overnight trip or a weekend.

Having your child help you to feed the cat is a great way for the child and cat to bond with each other. Depending on the age of the child, she can be given different responsibilities when it comes to feeding time. Younger children can get the food dishes out, choose a can of food, or refill the water bowl each day. Older children can feed the cat, either scooping out the correct portion or giving him the bowl at the appropriately schedules time each day.

When feeding the cat, explain to your child how much food he needs and how often. You can even have her draw up a feeding chart or schedule that shows when it is feeding time. Always supervise your child when she is feeding a pet and remember to teach her that the cat should not be disturbed when he is eating. Allowing your child to feed a pet and learn how to take care of him properly teaches responsible pet ownership from an early age.

To learn more about the different types of cat food for your dogs, cats, horse, etc., and how to get discount and cheap pet medications, make sure to visit http://www.callpetmeds.com where you will find everything on getting quality yet affordable pet medications as well as tips on how to take care of your pets like the experts.

How the Experts Make Their Cats Look Good With Cat Grooming

By Paul Kramer

Grooming is a great way to keep your feline companion healthy and looking good. Although cats groom themselves daily, your cat or kitten will need your help with some basic tasks. With a few supplies on hand, you can groom your cat at home in just minutes a day.

It is a good idea to begin a regular grooming schedule when you first bring your cat or kitten home. The sooner you start, the more readily your cat will become used to it. In time, he will accept the grooming procedure as part of his everyday life. If you have adopted an adult cat, be gentle and patient when you begin. He may not have been groomed before or he may have been groomed only occasionally, so he may not like being fussed over.

Brushing and combing your cat or kitten is a very important part of grooming. Cats (especially long haired breeds) have a lot of hair. As new hairs grow in, the old hairs are lost, or shed. Fur is shed every day, but excessive shedding is a sign of a medical or emotional condition. Cats that are stressed may over groom themselves or pull out chunks of their own fur. A nutritional deficiency, parasites, or ringworm also could cause abnormal shedding. If your cat is shedding a lot or pulling out his fur, take him to the vet for a checkup.

Set up a regular brushing routine and stick to it. How often you will need to brush or comb your cat or kitten depends on his hair length and coat. If you have a long haired cat with a thick coat (such as Maine Coon), then you will have to brush him every day. Short haired breeds (such as Burmese) may need only twice weekly brushing.

Brushing and combing is beneficial because it cuts down on the amount of hair that your cat consumes when he washes himself. A cat that swallows too much loose fur could develop hairballs, constipation, or intestinal blockages. If you see your cat vomiting up extra hair do not panic. This is normal reaction. It is nature's way of helping him to expel the extra fur that he has swallowed while bathing.

To learn more about the different types of grooming supplies for your dogs, cats, horse, etc., and how to get discount and cheap grooming supplies, make sure to visit http://www.callpetmeds.com where you will find everything on getting quality yet affordable grooming supplies well as tips on how to take care of your pets like the experts.

Cat Food - The Difference Between Canned Food, Dry Food and Semi Moist Food

By Paul Kramer

Commercially prepared cat food comes in three varieties - canned (or wet), dry and semi moist. Many owners feed a combination of canned food and dry food. Offer your cat some of each and see if he has a preference.

Canned Food

Canned cat food is generally more expensive than the dry or semi moist variety. It is 50 to 78 percent water and can be fed alone or as a supplement to dry food. When buying canned food, avoid buying a brand that contains a lot of added preservatives (the canning process preserves the can's contents, so there is no need for preservatives), and avoid brands listing meat or animal by products as the main ingredients. It is also a good idea to check the can for a freshness or expiration date.

Canned food has less preservatives and additives than dry or semi moist food, and it is the healthiest option for your cat or kitten. However, it cannot be left out in the dish all day. Dispose of uneaten food after 20 minutes, and cover and refrigerate any unused portion.

Dry Food

When buying dry food, make sure that the first ingredient is meat, not meat by products, cornmeal, or any other type of grain or meal. Check the bag or box for an expiration date. Although dry food has a long life shelf, it will become stale if the bag is left open or if it is not used quickly. Store dry food in an airtight plastic container, and do not buy more than your cat or kitten will eat in a month.

One benefit to feeding dry food is that you can leave the food out all day (for free feeding) and it will not spoil. Some seniors may have a hard time chewing dry food, so if your senior cat is missing teeth or has sensitive teeth, you may want to give him canned food or a blend of dry and canned food.

Semi moist food

Semi moist cat food generally is not recommended as a main food for your pet. High amounts of preservatives are added to it to keep it moist and increase its life shelf. It contains high amounts of chemicals, artificial flavorings, colorings, and sugar.

Some sensitive cats have had allergic reactions to the chemicals and other ingredients found in this type of food.

To learn more about the different types of cat food or pet food for your dogs, cats, horse, etc., and how to get discount and cheap pet medications, make sure to visit http://www.callpetmeds.com where you will find everything on getting quality yet affordable pet medications as well as tips on how to take care of your pets like the experts.

Cat Health - How to Reduce Your Number of Trips to the Vet

By Liz Allan

The last few years have seen a huge shift towards disease prevention in humans. Keep fit, eat sensibly, get regular check-ups etc. etc. and you'll be healthier and less at risk from disease.

Exactly the same is true for cat health. Taking a few simple steps to keep your kitty fit and well can help minimize vet visits and potentially save you a load of money and stress.

Here's a suggested cat health timetable to help keep your adult cat in tip-top shape:

Once a year:

Take him to the vet for a general cat health check and for vaccinations against the potentially fatal cat flu and feline infectious enteritis. Depending on where you live and your circumstances, your cat may also need yearly vaccines against other diseases.

Every three months:

Worm him against roundworms (your vet should give you tablets for this at Kitty's yearly check-up). Worms can cause damage to the cat's intestine, liver and lungs if they really take hold.

Monthly:

Use a flea treatment. Cat fleas can cause severe skin irritation and they sometimes carry nasty diseases. Many good flea treatments are also effective against other parasites.

Weekly:

Groom your cat thoroughly. This reduces the risk of hairballs, which can cause vomiting, constipation and discomfort. In severe cases they may need surgical removal. Note:If your cat is long haired, or if he sheds a lot of hair, you should groom him daily.

Daily:

Play with your cat. This keeps him fit, stimulates him and helps to prevent stress.

Twice a day:

Feed him good quality food to keep him healthy and help him fight diseases.

Clean his litter box. Many cats won't use a dirty litter box, so they'll either pee elsewhere (e.g. on the carpet) or won't pee at all until the box is cleaned. This can cause urine stagnation and infection.

Overnight:

Keep Kitty indoors. Cats are at much greater risk of getting injured, killed, lost or stolen when it's dark.

All the time:

Ensure your cat has a constant supply of fresh water to drink.

Make your home safe for your cat. Keep poisonous chemicals and houseplants out of his reach. Check he's not stuck or locked in somewhere. Make sure he's not sitting in the washing machine or under the car before you use them etc.

Some cat health problems are unavoidable, but by taking these preventative measures, you should be able to increase your cat's chances of staying healthy and happy.

Liz Allan is a cat behavior expert with 25 years experience of caring for cats. For more detailed information on cat health and diseases, visit http://www.cat-behavior-explained.com/cat-health-advice.html To find out how to deal with common cat behavior problems, and for lots of other useful information about cats, click this link: http://www.cat-behavior-explained.com

Cat Flea and Heartworm Meds

By Katie Appleby

Does your cat have heartworms, fleas and ticks? Does it drive you crazy when they cannot stop scratching? Well, you need not worry any more. There are heartworm, tick and flea controls that are available for your cats. It is only natural that your pets could have this problem, but what is unnatural is if their human friends do not do anything about it. These medications are available with a prescription, but the prescription is easy enough to acquire. You just need to meet with your vet and have him take a look with your cat. By consulting your vet, you are assured that you are doing the right thing for your pet.

These medicines are great for treatment for heartworms, ticks, ear mites, fleas, and sarcoptic mange. Because these treatments also contain selemectin as one of the active ingredient, it can also control hookworms and roundworms on cats. It is a treatment regimen that you can give your pet once a month to make their lives parasite-free and scratch-free.

These medicines are easy to apply. Just apply once a month to ensure the absence of flea, tick and heartworm. The medicine is liquid so it is easy to spread evenly into the fur and into the skin of your cat. It is not greasy and it is quick-drying so letting your pet roam after application would not be a problem. It is even water-resistant to some extent; you can continue to bathe your pets regularly. The medication will remain effective for up to a month without the need of reapplication.

The cat flea and heartworm meds work fast. It enters the bloodstream upon application through the skin. It also distributes treatment to the sebaceuous glands in the skin where it can protect your pet against parasites. And because it is water-proof, you can rest assured that your pets are protected all month long regardless of water exposure or sun exposure.

Although these medicines are considered safe for cat and kittens over six weeks, the treatment is not recommended for weak, underweight or sick animals. Before you begin the monthly treatment, visit your veterinarian to ensure that the medication is safe for your pet. And if you see any changes in your pet after applying the medication, stop the treatment immediately. Always consult your vet to make sure that your pet is safe from any harm.

Katie Appleby is an accomplished niche website developer and author. To learn more about cat flea and heartworm meds, please visit New Heartworm Medication for current articles and discussions.

Cat Donut Beds

aBy Katie Appleby

Cats are great companions and are kept as pets by many people. They adore them, buy them accessories and even dress them up. They also take them to pet parlors in order to keep them looking their best. Among all these creature comforts available in the market, there are also cat donut beds. This would be a special bed that you can give your cats and give them great comfort. The shape of the bed is just perfect for the cat to fit it. Many cats just love their beds and don't want to come out of it at times.

Donut beds for cats comes in different colors and different sizes. You can select the color that would be best suitable for your cat. Some people take a little contrast color whereas some prefer the bed to be the same color as the cats. The prices would also differ, so you'll have a wide choice to choose from. You can select the one that would best suit your budget and style. Most cat owners like to make sure that the bed also goes well with your room where you would be keeping it.

When selecting donut beds for cats, you can ensure that you buy the best one. Make sure that you will be able to keep the bed clean. A bed that can be washed is best. This would also ensure that you cat is in good health and that your cat is away from fleas and ticks. The beds that you get should be of good quality and last for a long time. Even a small donut bed could accommodate many kittens if there are many. Otherwise a small one which would fit your cat should be ideal.

You can also choose from the many designs that are offered. They come in various colors and prints too. Cat donut beds make your cats life really easy and comfortable; they just love to fit inside and cuddle in it. There are many suppliers of cat beds, and you can even shop for some of them online. There are various sites where you can get some of the best designs and colors at reasonable prices.

Cats are fun to be with and you would love to keep them happy. Just buying a good bed wouldn't do, you will have to keep both the bed as well as the cat clean from time to time. This helps ensure that your cat is free from diseases and also any kind of health issues. Cat beds are more than just a comfortable place to sleep!

Katie Appleby is an accomplished niche website developer and author. To learn more about cat donut beds, please visit New Cat Bedding for current articles and discussions.

Eight Foods Your Cat Should Never, Ever Eat

By K. L. Bonfiglio

Most of us know that there are some human foods our pets shouldn't eat. Keeping our cats away from alcohol, for example, is a no-brainer. But did you know that onion powder can cause anemia in cats and dogs? Because of their different metabolisms, many common foods that are safe for human consumption are not safe for your cat. Reactions can range from upset stomachs to severe illness or death.

To help keep your kitty safe you need to know which foods to avoid. The following list spotlights eight common foods your cat should never eat:

Baby Food

It's hard to imagine that a food that's safe enough for a baby's tender tummy would hurt our fur-kids. But what makes baby food so dangerous for cats is that it might contain onion powder (see below) which could lead to anemia. Also, baby food doesn't meet your cat's nutritional needs, and could result in malnutrition if she eats too much of it.

Chocolate

Most people know that chocolate is bad for dogs, but many of us don't realize that it's harmful for cats as well. Chocolate contains theobromine, a chemical compound that humans can eat safely. But cats and dogs metabolize theobromine more slowly; as a result, even small amounts of the compound can lead to theobromine poisoning, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, excitability, panting, abnormal heart rate, tremors, seizures - and even death. Theobromine poisoning is treatable if caught early enough. But to be safe, keep chocolate away from your kitty.

Coffee and Tea

Caffeine is toxic to both cats and dogs, and there's no antidote. According to ProVet Healthcare, it only takes about 8 teaspoons of coffee to potentially fatally poison a cat that weighs 3 kilograms (that's about 6.6 lbs). Signs of caffeine poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, panting, hyperactivity, restlessness, muscle tremors, increased or decreased heart rate, irregular heart rhythm, increased body temperature. But most scary of all: caffeine poisoning can lead to seizures, coma and death.

Grapes and Raisins

Scientists aren't sure exactly just what substance is in grapes and raisins that make them so toxic for our pets, but according to the ASPCA Poison Control Center, dogs who've eaten large amounts of grapes and raisins have suffered renal (kidney) failure. Although it's unclear what effect grapes have on cats, to be on the safe side the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center "advises not giving grapes or raisins to any pets in any amount."

Onions and Garlic

Raw, powdered and uncooked onions and garlic are especially harmful to cats because they damage red blood cells, which could cause anemia. Not only does anemia make your kitty pale and lethargic, it can be a life threatening illness.

Spinach

The jury's still out on whether or not spinach is bad for cats, but scientists do know that spinach leaves contain a small amount of calcium oxalates (a chemical compound that makes needle-shaped crystals), which is a major component in kidney stones. If your cat eats enough spinach, it could lead to crystals in her urine. Cats with a history of urinary problems such as infections, crystaluria and kidney disease, should definitely avoid eating spinach.

Unripe Tomato

Everyone knows that tomatoes are good for humans. But did you know that they can be toxic to cats? Tomatoes are a member of the deadly nightshade plant family and contain a poisonous alkaloid called, solanine. Solanine is toxic to humans too. But you have to eat it in large amounts for it to hurt you. That's why you shouldn't eat green potatoes - a potato that has gone green has higher levels of solanine inside it. And it can make you sick, causing a bevy of symptoms that range from nausea, diarrhea and vomiting to hallucinations, paralysis and in the worst cases, death. Unlike humans, however, only a small amount of solanine can hurt your cat. According to FelineFuture.com, "traces of Solanin, like those found in just a 100g of cherry tomatoes, can be fatal!"

Yeast Dough

Raw or uncooked yeast dough should never be fed to your cat. What makes it so dangerous? Yeast (the single-celled fungi that causes bread to rise) isn't toxic per se, but if your cat eats the raw dough, it might continue to rise inside your kitty's stomach. And you can imagine what that could lead to: painful bloating, gas, and in the worst-case-scenario, possible rupture of the stomach or intestines.

Remember, the information in this article is for informative purposes only. If you suspect your cat has eaten something that is harmful, or needs medical attention, contact your veterinarian immediately! For more information about other harmful foods or toxins found in your home, check out these great references: ASPCA Animal Control Archives and PetEducation.com.

K.L. Bonfiglio is a freelance writer and owner of CuteCatGifts.com, a website dedicated to connecting cat lovers with cute cat gifts. Looking for more information about cats? Visit our blog, which features informative cat articles, product spotlights, cat videos, funny cat photos and more.

Frontline Plus For Cats Flea Control

By Johnny Moon

Fleas

Fleas are no fun for anyone (except perhaps themselves.) They're no fun for your cat and they're no fun for you! Obviously if you are reading this article then you are interested in getting rid of your cat's fleas with Frontline Plus for Cats. If that's the case then please continue reading on as I want to tell you my experience with the product.

My Story

I have two cats and a few months ago they both started up with a bad case of fleas. And that's normally how it works, if one of your cats have fleas then they probably all have fleas (and your dogs too!) I'm still not quite sure how they got these fleas. But of course once your cats have fleas, the question of where they got them becomes much less important than how to get rid of them.

Frontline Plus for Cats

I'd heard a lot of good things about Frontline Plus for Cats from some friends and also online. I was somewhat skeptical that it would work as well as advertised, but it turns out I had no reason for such skeptism. It really does work like a charm and from everything I've read it's also very safe for you and your cats.

Ticks

A great benefit of Frontline Plus for Cats is that it also kills ticks. While ticks are not nearly as common as fleas they are actually far more dangerous. They can carry very deadly diseases which can actually kill people who are infected with it. The most dangerous such disease is Rocky Mountain Fever.

CLICK HERE to learn more about this great flea control product and how you can order it easily online. Frontline Plus For Cats.

Cat Furniture - Make You and Your Cats Happy

By Jennifer Akre

If you have a furry feline friend or friends you will undoubtedly get sick of them leaving fur and scratch marks all over your good furniture. So you can keep vacuuming up the fur and repairing or covering the unsightly destruction of your sofa and more or you can invest in some high quality cat furniture that will be easy on both you and your kitty's eyes.

Sure you could try the traditional cat tree, but they are traditionally ghastly if you are a fan of modern or really any style of d้cor. Cat houses and cat beds are also common pieces of cat furniture that aren't quite as aesthetically unpleasing as the aforementioned trees.

Imagine a cat tower or tree that blends Zen like qualities with minimalist functionality. A tree you would be glad to put in any space in your home. This kind of cat furniture does exist. Another common style is made from cardboard molded into sleek and curvy designs to scratch on the wall or lounge on the floor. Their simple and striking designs will easily blend into your d้cor rather than becoming an eyesore shoved into the corner or basement. Another option in cat furniture pares down the cat tree to its essence; height and texture. Simply put a shelf with carpet or sisal fiber will enthrall your cat and serve as proper display space for him as well.

From orbs on a post to beds on the floor purchasing cat furniture can seem a daunting task. Where do you start? Well, first assess your space to determine what size pieces you can accommodate. Then take note of what your kitty likes to do. If he prefers to lounge on the soft couch a soft bed might be the answer. If she loves to be hidden in a hole or makeshift shelter a house or cubby is what you need. And if your furry friend loves to play or watch the birds from a high perch a tower or tree is your best bet.

Once you have these things figured out, you can begin shopping. Check out your local pet stores and don't forget the internet. You'll find all sorts of choices for your home and pet. From beds, to trees to houses and more your pet will soon be outfitted with the best.

So don't worry about your quickly deteriorating furniture any longer. Invest in some quality cat furniture and both you and your cats can be happier. Your furniture won't be abused any longer and your kitty will love playing, lounging and observing the surroundings from their new digs.
With all of the options available today you are bound to find plenty of things to enrich both your lives.
And with sleek modern furniture your friends and guests will no longer grimace at the site of your ugly carpet and platform cat tree. Instead they will applaud you for your exquisite taste and ask where they can get similar pieces for their finicky feline friends.

Author Jennifer Akre is an owner of different niche online stores that offer customers not only products, but information relating to furnishing and decorating indoor and outdoor living spaces. Whether you want to redecorate your living room or create the ultimate environment perfect for cat, there is a lot of helpful advice to take advantage of to make it happen. Today, she shares her insight when investing in comfortable cat furniture and dependable cat houses. Each would be a great way to treat your pet to something nice.

Discover the Hazards of NOT Walking Your Cat!

By Ian D Bramwell

Introduction

You are reading an article that could dramatically affect your cats health! Cats like all of natures animals need stimulus and them being outside is a BIG area of excitement for them. By reading and absorbing this article you will discover why a cat needs to be outside and how to do it correctly so that even a cat that has been indoors most of its life will feel safe in the new outdoor environment. The best way is to learn to walk your cat safely. The reasons behind this and how to walk a cat are laid out for you to apply to your relationship with your cat.

"How To Walk Your Cat And Why It Should Be Done!"

Cat's are hunters! They need stimulated to be healthy. Nature provides this in abundance in the great outdoors for all its creatures. Even house cats need to be stimulated. Here we have a dilemma!

On the one hand you cat needs to go outdoors to be healthy and properly stimulated as a hunter. On the other the outdoors is dangerous and your cat could get injured. There is a solution: Take them for a walk!

The reason is simple even though people have actually studied it. They found that cats that stay indoors can actually develop depression!

It can be hard to see it yourself as cats tend not to talk verbally or display symptoms of depression or boredom. One recognised that was recognised was excessive scratching. This did actually show to have a direct relationship with a cat's depression. More depressed more scratching.

Why Do These Problems Develop?

They do because cat owners tend to pamper their pets. They should really be playing with they cat and learning from a cat's instincts in order to keep the cat healthy and happy. This includes them being outside. Being in a city is no excuse as you can still take the cat for a walk. Walking your cat has other health implications like not letting get obese which can also lead to other health problems as well. Hmm, increased vet bills I think!

How Do You Walk A Cat?

Firstly you have to use a harness or coat. Your cat must become used to wearing it first as well before you add a leash/lead.

Once they have become used to it attach the leash/lead and walk them indoors first. Once them are familiar with it start to take them outdoors. Only briefly and not far at first. Remember you have to build their confidence. Each time you go out take them a little further and remain out a little longer. This simple exercise allows both of you to become familiar with the whole 'taking the cat for a walk' thing.

Use a leash works equally as well in a city, town or in the countryside. In fact it works anywhere you want your cat to be safe yet experience the great outdoors.

Conclusion

It is not hard to understand why cats need to be outdoors. It is also not hard to train them to walk on a leash/lead. It keeps them safe and allows them to enjoy the outside world and remain healthy. My advice: learn to take your cat for a walk. Start today!

Ian David is not just a cat lover, no he is a cat fanatic! Visit his website at http://www.understandyourcat.ian-david.co.uk to get simple, unique, secrets on cat behaviour and health that amaze the professionals for FREE! Ian's FREE E-course 'Understand Your Cat' is crammed full of tips and techniques that will amaze you and make your cat the talk of the town. Subscribe for FREE at http://www.understandyourcat.ian-david.co.uk

Litter Training a Cat - 6 Simple Steps

By Erika Nilsson

I recently got a new cat from a friend and it was not litter trained. Litter training a cat is not easy and takes a lot of patience. Here are some tips and tricks I learned while I trained my cat to make it easier for you.

Cats are born as tidy animals and when you give them a litter box where they can do their things in quiet they should accept it without any problems. If you still have some trouble to get your cat to use the litter box, consider this.

• Have you checked so the litter box is clean? Cats don't like a dirty box.
  
• Are you sure your cat can find the litter box? Some people tend to hide the box really carefully so not even the cat can find it. Invite the cat by brushing your fingers against the sand.
  
• Don't place the litter box close to where your cat eats and drinks.
  
• If your cat "do it" outside the litter box, make sure to clean it up quickly and use 50 % vinegar and 50 % water to clean up.
  
• If you continue to have problems it could be worth to empty the whole litter box and clean it under running hot water. There could be some smell on it that the cat doesn't like.
  
• If the cat gets stressed a lot that could be the cause. Allow your cat to relax and place the litter box on a calm and quiet place.

If you follow these rules and solution your cat should use the litter box in no time. If you still have problems it could be medical and I would take the cat to the veterinarian. As you can see litter training a cat is really simple, just have patience and follow these steps.

Cat Training Secrets is filled with very important information for anyone who wants to learn more about cat training. For more general litter box training you can visit: http://www.cat-training-information.com/cat-litter-box-training.html

The Importance of Spaying and Neutering Your Animal Companion

By Debra K Allen

Cats--We Love Cats!
Cats need to be Spayed and Neutered if they are not to be bred.

This is so important that I will say it again:

Cats need to be Spayed and Neutered if they are not to be bred.

There are just too many unwanted litters and kittens and cats being killed each year that it is staggering. I am not sure if it is just the Humane Society in my neighborhood or it is the policy of all Humane Societies that they euthanize cats and kittens if they have not found a home in 5-7 days. The proper term is Euthanize, but it is killing--plain and simple...they kill them. It's not their fault, but the fault of all the owners who just can't get their cats or kittens de-sexed. There are many programs out there that will help you if you just ask. The main ones that I deal with are Spay Today and Allie Cat Allies. Both have main websites that you can go to to get lots more information. They will be in the links section of this hub.

Allie Cat Allies has such information about how to build an outdoor shelter and feeding centers from basic and simple and inexpensive to elaborate and costly. It depends on how much you think your cats are worth. Some Spay Today programs across the country have FREE Spaying and Neutering while others, such as mine, have low-cost. There are other fees involved with this and you should contact the Spay Today in your area to see what they are. Rabies Vaccinations are mandatory in some locals, so it is best to check on those.

Some have nail clipping and many tests like FIV and Feline Leukemia, feline panleukopenia (distemper), feline viral rhinotracheitis, feline calicivirus, and rabies. feline leukemia (FeLV), feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), ringworm, and chlamydia. The AAFP recommends AGAINST FeLV vaccinations in totally indoor cats who have no exposure to other cats. FIP vaccinations should only be given to cats who have a possibility of being exposed to it through other cats. The choice to use chlamydia and ringworm vaccines is based upon the prevalence of the disease in your area. I had a cat that died of Feline AIDS. He got it from licking the tears off a cat that was just thrown into our yard in a towel. That cat died a week later and our cat was a very nurturing cat. We didn't know that this other cat had Feline Aids (FIV). Our cat lost 12 pound in like two weeks time. We finally had to put him to sleep. It was the hardest thing that I have ever had to do. He was my baby and he was only 11 years old. If you have any idea if the cat has ever been outdoors around other cats or you are going to have this cat outdoors, get those tests done and get them their booster shots.

Feline AIDS
Feline AIDS is another reason to spay/neuter your cat/kitten and to keep them from fighting. Feline AIDS is not transferred from cat to human or human to cat, but it is very much like the Human AIDS that is passed from human to human. It is certain death for the animal who contracts it. It is not spread by intercourse such as the human AIDS is but through body fluids such as tears and blood from scratches and bites of fighting stray cats. Though some cats will have it for many years and not show any signs of it. Once they get the virus they can never get rid of it.

Symptoms of Feline AIDS from the inital onset to the final stage of the disease are

1. fever
2. depression, and just not feeling or acting like they should
3. bad gum infections and the loss of teeth.
4. Lack of and sudden weight loss
5. Cats get colds easily and are hard to get rid of.

The second stage of the illness they can stay there for the rest of there lives if well cared for and given lots of love and attention. At times the cat may not want to eat or lack the willpower to, but you can experiment with foods from Special Cat foods, to canned foods and even human and baby food. The best one are fish and chicken.

The Third stage is where the immune system totally breaks down and the cat is very ill. At this time the cat will not be able to sustain itself and it's organs start to deteriorate rapidly.

Helping Other Cats

If you are like me you will just want to help any cat that comes in your yard. Well, it is law in this state that if you feed a stray or feral cat then it becomes yours. I think that is ridiculous and lets the real owners off the hook of responsibly for those cats. They use circular logic with that saying that no one should feed them then. Some people around my neighborhood just leave their cats there when they move or many people drop the off thinking that they can survive on their own in the woods. The think is the can't and most times they will die a very slow agonizing death. I have seen two do that and I even tried to help them but they were at the stage of eat or be eaten and were very mean. They were not feral, they were just at their wits end and didn't trust anyone. I was able to touch and hold this cat sometimes, not all the time, but sometimes. That cat came to a horrible end by getting hit by a car. I buried it when I found it in the road. She would have been a very loving cat if someone would have taken her to a NO-KILL Animal Shelter.

So you want to help the cats that come to you and don't seem to have a home of their own. You feed them and water and give them some kind of shelter. You want to stop them from having more kittens and making unwanted litters in your area. If you are not sure if it is feral or stray then by all means get that animal de-sexed. First of all call your local Spay Today and ask them if they rent out traps for cats that you cannot catch on your own. Most will rent them out to you at a nominal charge and they will even have carriers to rent if you do not have enough for your own kittens or cats.

Alley Cat Allies, the national feral cat resource defines a feral cat as "either a cat who has lived his whole life with little or no human contact and is not socialized, or a stray cat who was lost or abandoned and has lived away from human contact long enough to revert to a wild state. Feral cats avoid human contact and cannot be touched by strangers."

Alley Cat Allies explains the difference between feral and stray cats: "A stray cat is a domestic cat who has been abandoned or has strayed from home and become lost... because stray cats once knew human companionship, they can usually be re-socialized or re-homed. Adult feral cats usually cannot be socialized and are most content living outside. Feral kittens up to 8 or 10 weeks of age can often be tamed and placed in homes." (used by permission from Alley Cat Allies).

Most litters of feral cat in colonies die before their first year. Tom Cat's fight and transmit many diseases and illnesses throughout the colonies as well. If you decide that you want to de-sex the feral cats in your area, please do not remove any males or females from the colony. Studies of the TNR (Trap Neuter and Release) program has shown that if you remove a male that this only produces a vacuum effect and new males and female will move in. The Vet will do what is called ear tipping. They cut just the tip off of the ear of the cat while they are getting de-sexed. It is harmless to the cat and most Vets offer it for FREE. This is like a marking that anyone can see and it lets them know that this cat has already been de-sexed. It saves them time and money and you too. Young kittens can be tamed and placed in new homes.

From personal experience kittens that are raised outside and are partially feral and are about 3 months of age are hard to socialize and will be indoor/outdoor cats. I have two cats from a mother who had them in a tree in my yard and I took them in. She was very domesticated and was not being cared for so I gave her up for adoption along with three of her other litters. These two that she brought to me were at least 3 months old and took about 6 weeks of feeding them outside to get them near enough to me so that I could pick them up. Then when I did get them inside it took another 5 months for them to stay out in plain view of everyone--to at least me. Shadow is a female and we thought she was a male--exhibited all the male behavior and all. When we got her de-sexed is when they called and told me that she was a female. I don't think she knows that she is a she because she will spray if I do not let her go outside when she wants to go outside. Her sister just has a high-pitched whine. I don't like her outside because she gets mean, but she will sneak out with the other cats. Everyone else, even Shadow will come back in at night, but this one will not and it takes me about 4 days until she comes to the door wanting in. So just a friendly warning, if they have been outside they may not be total indoor cats.

I cannot take in any more cats. I already have 5 indoor/outdoor cats. One is the kitten of the Mommy Kitty that I just got de-sexed. She brought them to me. all five of them, last year. This year I knew when she got pregnant and by whom and I put her in a roomy Dog Crate with this litter. The male was de-sexed about 3 months ago while she was in the crate having her last litter of kittens. The kittens were all just de-sexed on Monday. Three males remain to be de-sexed that come in my yard. That will be it, and I hope that I don't have anymore kittens for a long time.

Flea Control on a large scale!
There are many things a cat can get from Fleas. Some are:

1. Flea allergic dermatitis or what's commonly known as FAD.
2. Tapeworms
3. Fleas also cause anemia in cats.

Thre are many ways to get rid of fleas. Frontline and Advantage are some of the chemical based ones. These are easy to administer to the cat. There are generic brands that do well also. Read the labels to see what the ingredients are and if they math up to the same on the name brand. I also have a more organic way of preventing fleas. Garden Lime works to rid fleas out of your yard and also to sweeten the earth from dog feces and urine. Diatomaceous earth is another. When you use this don't allow it to get into your eyes or the animals eyes and don't breath it. That is the only precaution. It is the consistency and color of finely ground flour. Eating it will not harm cats or kittens because animals are too big. It only kills small insects and is natural. Don't get the kind you put in your pool or has any other additives. Diatomaceous earth is made up of the fossilized remains of diatoms, single-cell organisms. The glass-like nature of diatomaceous earth makes it one of the oldest forms of insecticide. The sharp surfaces cut through the insect cuticle and the insect dies of dehydration. I have used it with great results. I just spread it with my garden spreader in my yard where cats and other animals walk on and let nature take it's course. I also use it on my carpets and floors. Scuffle across your carpets to get the while stuff down into the fibers of your carpet and let it stay there for a few days. Then vacuum it up. On the label it states that when it gets wet it becomes non-active. I think this is due to the particles in the substance becoming soft. and not sharp on the edges. It also says the best results is if you leave it on the ground for several days to get the best results. This would also go for the Lime too. Be careful with the Lime though as it can burn animal paws if they walk on it for more then 10 minutes.

Which Side Of The Fence Do You Sit?
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Animal Rights is a A political movement that opposes all animal use including working dogs (for blind, etc.) and breeding companion dogs (i.e., pets) These Organization endorse this stance: People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), Doris Day Animal League, Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) (but not local Humane Societies)

Their beliefs are:

The agenda is taken from The Politics of Animal Liberation written by Kim Barlett, Editor of the Animals' Agenda, Nov. 1987 but a minimally

modified version was part of the Green Party Platform for 2000 1. Abolish by law animal research.

2. Outlaw the use of animals for cosmetic and product testing, classroom demonstrations and weapons development.

3. Make vegetarian meals available at all public institutions, including schools.

4. Eliminate all animal agriculture.

5. End herbicides, pesticides, and other

Agricultural chemicals. Outlaw predator control. 6. Transfer enforcement of animal welfare

legislation away from the Dept. of Agriculture. 7. Eliminate fur ranching and end the use of furs.

8. Prohibit hunting, trapping and fishing.

9. End the international trade in wildlife goods.

10. Stop any further breeding of companion animals, including purebred dogs and cats.

11. Spaying and neutering should be subsidized by state and municipal governments. Commerce in domestic and exotic animals for the pet trade

should be abolished. 12. End the use of animals in entertainment.

Animal Welfare is a stewardship of the Companion Animals and many other uses of Animals. Their beliefs are

1. Supports raising and using animals humanely and responsibly for food, fiber, labor, and medical research.

2. Manages animal populations by hunting; keeping animals in zoos and other educational venues.

3. Requires humane treatment and responsible use of animals on farms, ranches, circuses, rodeos, homes, kennels, catteries, laboratories, and wherever else animals are maintained.

4. Endorses a scientific approach to commercial use and management of wild animal populations and a quick death when death is inevitable.

5. Celebrates human/animal interactions and works to improve animal well-being.

6. Enjoys animal sports and animals in movies, circuses, and on stage.

7. Rejoices in the bond between humans and pets.

The main Advocates for Animal Welfare are: The American Kennel Club (AKC), National Animal Interest Alliance (NAIA), Responsible Pet Owners Alliance (RPOA)

I am on the side of Animal Welfare. Animals are not going to go away and they are our friends and as such they are our companions and do look to us for food, shelter, companionship, love and sometimes their very life. I will always take in an animal or help one if they need it and come to me for such.

For more Information please visit: http://hubpages.com/hub/The-Importance-Of-Spaying-and-Neutering-Your-Animal-Companion http://hubpages.com/profile/Lady+Guinevere

Should You Keep Your Cat Indoors Or Out?

By CS Swarens

There has long been a great debate about how to properly keep a pet as a cat. While some believe it is best to keep them indoors in order to prevent the spread of feline disease and to save the lives of birds, others believe that keeping cats indoors contributes to feline behavior problems and does not allow cats to express their natural tendencies. So, which choice is best for you and your pet? In order to make the right decision, there are many things that you need to consider.

Why Do You Have a Pet Cat?

In the past, cats were primarily kept in order to help farmers keep the mice out of their grain. Therefore, keeping the cat outdoors made sense. After all, how is your kitty going to act as a mouser if it is kept indoors? Today, however, many people keep a cat simply for companionship. If you view your kitty as a family member rather than a mouser to help keep pests away, you might want to consider keeping it indoors. This way, it will live a longer and healthier life. In fact, outdoor cats only have an average lifespan of about five years, while indoor cats live an average of 16 years.

Where Do You Live?

The place where you live also has an impact on whether your cat should stay indoors or if it can live outdoors. If you live in the city, allowing your cat to roam outdoors may not be a good idea. The population density of humans is quite thick in the city and outdoor cats can easily and quickly spread disease to one another when allowed to live freely outside. Even if your vaccinated your cat, the vaccines will not be able to fully protect your feline friend. If you live in the country, however, the spread of disease may not be as big of a concern. Of course, you still need to be concerned about traffic and your kitty getting killed on the road.

Are You Allergic?

If you love cats, but you are allergic to their dander, you may not have any other choice but to keep your cat outside. Many people with cat allergies can handle spending time with their feline friends if that time is spent outdoors. Once inside, however, the dander throughout the house can make life very uncomfortable for someone that suffers from allergies. Even if you are not allergic to cats, the fur and other messes left behind by indoor cats may be undesirable to you. In this case, keeping your cat outdoors may be the best answer.

For the overall health of your cat, keeping it indoors is certainly the best option. If circumstances make it so your cat must be an outside pet, however, be certain to provide it with plenty of shelter and attention. If you live on a farm with a barn, the barn can certainly serve as your pet's shelter. In the absence of a barn, you should construct some sort of building or home for your cat so it can get out of the sun, wind, rain, and snow when necessary.

CS Swarens is the president of Find a Pet Online. 800 998-7065 For additional information on dogs, cats, birds, horses, and exotic pets visit the internet's pet resource including pet classifieds at http://www.findapetonline.com Research over 430 pet breed profiles http://www.findapetonline.com/breeds.html

Dealing With Problematic Cat Spray and Urination

By CS Swarens

If you own a cat, you are already aware that a litter box can become quite smelly if not properly cared for. You may be surprised to learn, however, that it is possible for your cat to be just as disgusted by the smell of the litter box. As a result, your feline friend may start leaving its messes elsewhere. If you are experiencing problems with your cat urinating or even defecating outside of the litter box, there are a few possible causes and solutions to the problem that you might wish to explore.

Looking at the Litter Box Design

Sometimes, the reason for your cat's bathroom problems is simply because it doesn't like the design of the litter box. One popular design among cat owners is the litter box that has a top that sits on the regular box. While you may like this design, your cat may not. Think about it - having this wraparound structure is similar to having to use the port potty. Not only does it make your cat feel closed in, the smaller space and additional walls also trap in the smell further.

As a result of your cat's dislike for this design, it may decide to go to the bathroom outside of the box. Therefore, if you are having problems with your cat's toilet habits and you have one of these litter boxes, you might want to consider removing the top and seeing if you get better results.

Keep it Clean and Private

Every cat owner knows that they can be quite finicky. This is particularly true when it comes to the litter box. If you allow it to get too messy, your cat will simply refuse to use the box. So, be certain to clean out the feces every day. If you use the type of litter that clumps up from urine, remove those clumps as well. You should also change all of the litter once per week. In addition, if you have more than one cat, you might want to consider having enough litter boxes to allow each cat its own box. Some cats simply don't like to share this space with others.

Get Your Cat Spayed or Neutered

Sometimes, cat owners think their pets are urinating when they are really spraying. Spraying is actually different from urinating, as urination is done to get rid of waste while spraying is done as a means of marking territory.

Cats that are not spayed or neutered tend to spray more than those that are not, particularly male cats. Therefore, it is a good idea to get your cat spayed or neutered by the time it reaches 6 months. If you get it spayed or neutered at this time, it likely will not develop the behavior of spraying. At the same time, adding a new cat to the household, moving to a new home, or otherwise causing your cat to feel stress may cause it to start spraying even if it never engaged in the behavior as a kitten. In this case, do what you can to reduce your cat's anxiety in order to get the spraying to stop.

CS Swarens is the president of Find a Pet Online. 800 998-7065 For additional information on dogs, cats, birds, horses, and exotic pets visit the internet's pet resource including pet classifieds at http://www.findapetonline.com Research over 430 pet breed profiles http://www.findapetonline.com/breeds.html

Choosing the Perfect Pet Cat

By CS Swarens

Are you thinking about bringing home a friendly feline friend? If so, there are several things you should keep in mind when deciding upon the type of cat you want to join your family. By giving it some thought before you bring your new pet home, you will be more likely to be happy with your decision and to enjoy its companionship for years to come.

Check Out the Personality

Just like humans, cats come in a variety of different personalities. Some cats are very playful and friendly while others simply like to lounge around. Similarly, some cats are always on the move while others prefer to relax in their owner's lap. Therefore, you will need to decide whether you want a cat that is playful and energetic or if you want one that will curl up on your lap and let you pet it all night.

Of course, you can spend some time with the cat in order to get a better idea of its personality. You can also often get an idea of the personality type simply by looking at the cat. Cats that are heavier, shorter bodied, and broader tend to be more laid back. Those with more slender bodies and longer legs, on the other hand, tend to be more active.

Consider the Age

While kittens are certainly cute and cuddly, they aren't necessarily the best choice for a pet cat. Taking care of a kitten can be a lot of hard work. In addition, kittens tend to be quite destructive, which can be very frustrating at times - particularly if your favorite furniture gets destroyed along the way. Getting a new cat while it is still a kitten can be a good way to bond with your new pet from early on in its life, but getting an adult cat can be less frustrating and can give you a better idea of the personality you will see after you bring your new pet home.

Choose the Right Hair Length

When you explore your options for a pet cat, you will find that there are plenty of longhaired and shorthaired cats to choose from. So, which type is best for you?

While longhaired cats can be quite beautiful, keep in mind that they do require more grooming than shorthaired cats. For some pet owner's the act of grooming the longhaired cat's fur is enjoyable and perceived as one more way to bond with the pet. Others find grooming to be a chore. If you are looking for the option that is best when it comes to shedding, longhaired cats are actually a better choice. No matter how long your cat's hair, it will shed during the summer. Longhair, however, is usually easier to clean out from furniture and clothing than shorthair.

Decide on the Right Number

If you don't already have a cat, you might want to consider getting more than one at a time. While research has shown that single cats can be happy in a household, they tend to be even happier when there is more than one cat in the family. Having another cat in the house also helps reduce the amount of trouble the cat gets in because it is less likely to be bored and seek out mischief.

CS Swarens is the president of Find a Pet Online. 800 998-7065 For additional information on dogs, cats, birds, horses, and exotic pets visit the internet's pet resource including pet classifieds at http://www.findapetonline.com Research over 430 pet breed profiles http://www.findapetonline.com/breeds.html

Orphaned Kittens - Homemade Formula and Care

By Coylynn Reynolds

Volunteering with the local animal shelter and the rescue groups, I have sadly come across orphaned kittens more than I want to think about.

The kittens have ranged in minutes in age on up. Depending on exactly how old they are, the first thing I do is start with an anti-bacterial bath. It is good to get whatever they might have on them OFF! This is especially important when getting them from the shelter. If they are newborns, I wait until they are a bit older.

Always keep the kitten warm and dry using licking like rubs. Have you ever watched a mama cat clean her babies? I try to intimidate the same process. Small strokes over and over again even around the face. I do this quite often throughout their growing stages. Not necessarily the bath but the cleaning process. And this can be replaced using a damp warm rag.

Most important is feeding them.

The formula is very simple and cheaper and healthier than buying pre-made mixes.

1 can of evaporated milk
2 small jars of meat baby food (stage 2)
1 plain yogurt
2 egg yolks
1 T of Karol syrup

Mix all together and add enough water to make 1 quart. Keep refrigerated. Luke warm for feeding.

Depending on the age of the kittens they will need to be feed every 2 hours. But like any mother will tell you eventually you can get them to sleep through the night and feed first thing in the morning and regularly throughout the day.

I actually use a surrogate mama cat that happens to be one of my own. She didn't start out that way. She was my first pregnant foster mom from the shelter. She is like 100 years old, rotten teeth and not exactly what I call eye candy. Even though she does not have milk, she tends to all of the other needs like bathing, and trust me, the first time you notice the mom cleaning the hineys of the babies you might re-think using one too.

But if this is not an option for you here are a few other tips:

ท They need their mama, and in this case that is you - be there.
ท Carry them around, especially when very young inside your shirt next to your skin, let them feel you and smell you. Keep them warm.
ท Clean and sterilize your hands in between other pets in the home. You do not want sick babies! And remember to even have clean clothing when being around them.
ท If you do have a sick kitten, it is very important to see your vet
ท I used a bottle so that my kittens got to experience the sucking just like mom. But in some cases a small syringe will do the trick.
ท Use a damp paper towel to "lick" the back ends and tummies of the kittens to stimulate the potting process. Do this after every meal.
ท At about 4 weeks, you can introduce kitten food and the litter box. Use unscented, un-clumping brand. Your kitten's health depends on it. You do not want them to lick anything with too many chemicals in it.

I loved the changes that occur right down to watching them learn to walk, and soon explore my home.

If you want to experience kittens, instead of allowing your cat to have kittens, foster a pregnant mom from the shelter. There is no short supply of them unfortunately. And they are happy to move them out to a safer, cleaner atmosphere. Not that our shelter is by any means, not clean. But you have animals coming and going. And you don't know anything about them or what they are bringing in to the shelter.

Most of all enjoy the process. They will be excited to see you. And before long you will be saying goodbye to your babies as they find their first real forever home.

Coylynn Reynolds has been volunteering and foster many cats and dogs over the years. Hundreds of animals can thank her for their second chance at a better life. You can see her blog at http://coylynn.blogspot.com/ - Her subject matter offers advice from other authors about care on both dogs and cats. And her tidbits as well.

Understand Your Cat Through His Behavior

By Chanvit Phupook

It is known that cats aren't as friendly as dogs, yet some people just love the feeling of a feline presence in their house that they allow a cat to live with them. Unlike a dog, a cat does not need a lot of maintenance since it can groom itself very well and keep clean without having its owners to fuss over it. Many people prefer to have a dog over a cat because dogs are easier to get along with. Cats do seem to have their own agenda and will behave oddly at times, thus confusing even their very own owners. Yet certain cat behavior will usually tell something about the feline which will make a person understand his pet better.

A very common cat behavior is when it brushes its head into any type of object that it sees around the house. Whether it be your leg, your visitor's bag, the table's legs or the back rest of a chair, the brushing motion done by your pet signifies having possession over that particular object. The rubbing motion of the cat's head is done so that a touch of saliva is transferred to the object in which your pet thinks he owns. By marking a certain object with his saliva, it will then have a familiar scent to your pet. This just shows the territorial tendencies of the feline.

If your pet lives with you indoors, you might observe his fondness of sitting or lying down near windows. During his stay by the window, you might observe or hear your cat make strange noises or unusual movements. This shouldn't be a concern for you since the feline is just acting out his natural hunting instincts. Anything he sees through the window will trigger his hunting senses.

Another behavior that you might see your cat exhibit is his fondness for play. You must be able to recognize and accept this fact about your pet's natural desires so that you won't end up disappointing him which can lead to disasters. It is best to provide your pet with toys to play with. Strings or yarn balls are perfect for your feline friend since he will love chasing the string around the room.

These are just some of the most common behaviors that your cat can exhibit. Spending a lot of time with your pet will show you some very odd and unusual behaviors, however, if you are a very understanding owner who can accept the fact that cats will always be the way they are, then you will have no problems dealing with these odd behaviors. Getting to know your pet better should be first on your list because let's face it, having one in our home definitely lessens the day's stress-related worries and we owe it to them for the comfort they bring us at the end of each day. And remember, our pets also adjust to our temperaments so why not do the same thing for them and understand them better.

Copyright (c) 2008 Chanvit Phupook Get More Information at http://www.awsfoxvalley.org

Get Rid of Cat Urine Smell

By Blake Hygate

There's nothing worse than entering a home that smells like cat urine! Unfortunately many well meaning cat owners simply cannot get the smell of cat urine out of their home no matter what they do. Sure there are many solutions to that cost a lot of money that will work. The easiest way to remove the smell of cat urine from your home is to remove the carpet and get new furniture, but seriously, who has the money to do that? It's not like it won't happen again either. This is an ongoing issue that requires that you gave a solution that you can administer at home without having to spend any money each time your cat has an accident.

For those that live in rented apartments or houses this is especially important. Your landlord may not mind that you have cat in your place, but he will mind if your place smells like cat urine after you leave. If that's the case, you could end up paying a large cleaning bill. So why not try to find a solution to the problem that you can use time after time that will work?

There are the old standby's like warm water and vinegar that may provide a solution depending on the severity of the smell. Things like baking soda applied to the stain may help to remove the stain and help with the odor as will mouthwash. It's always best to try these inexpensive ways first before resorting to more drastic measures.

You could always hire a professional cleaning company to come in and clean up the cat urine smell, but this is going to be costly. Not to mention if your cat is a repeat offender, you can't afford to call in a cleaner each and every time he or she has an accident. It seems like a never ending battle!

Removing cat urine smell does not have to be difficult. Visit our website "What Remove Cat Urine" for more information on how you can learn to deal with cat urine smells and stains forever.

The Easiest Way to Train Your Cat in 4 Easy Steps

By Alan Thomas Jacobs

If you follow these 4 easy steps to training your cat to be obedient, then your cat will truly be a wonderful pet that anyone would love to have!

Step #1:Litter box training

Well obviously this is the first step in cat training. Your cat must know where the proper place is to do their business. One of the first signs that an untrained cat is about to pee or poop is they will start scratching the spot there standing on and purring. You will find that cats are far more difficult to break from using your floor for a bathroom then dogs. Contrary to what you may have heard previously. It's a common misconception. Learning how to reward a cat for a job well done that will speed the potty training process.

Step#2:Clawing furniture

Cats love to claw on things and play. If you don't have anything for your cat to play with then they will definitely find something to play with. Your couch,carpet,shoes,plants,electrical cords,etc. Get my point?

A cat scratching tree is a very fun thing that you can find at any pet store. There are all kinds of interactive toys for cats. If they start to claw at anything they shouldn't be then with a loud voice say "NO" cat's name. Be sure to call your cat by it's name often. He or she will know you're directing your command at them.

Step#3:Things to be careful of

Be careful to not leave any small Items laying around on the floor. Cats choke very easily. Try to keep all electrical cords well hidden if possible. Until your cat is properly trained to not mess with these things,he or she will not know right from wrong. Always be sure to not leave any defrosting meat laying out on a counter as the taste of blood can drive a cat crazy and ruin there diet. Also, do not leave a sink full of dishes setting in soapy water unsupervised as a cat will drink the water. Too much could be fatal.

Step#4:Proper care

Be sure to take your cat to the vet about every six months for a checkup. Feed your cat a mixture of dry and canned cat food as it will regulate their digestive system. Play with your cat often. Always show affection to your cat and they will mind you. If they act out usually it is a sign that their sick or something is wrong. Change out the litter in the box once daily, preferably after each movement. If you don't keep the litter box clean then your cat will look for a new spot to do their business. I would recommend using a scent free litter as some cats do have allergic reactions to the scented litter.

For complete step by step instructions on how to train your cat to be obedient then please visit http://alansinformation.com