Feline Health Problems

By Saman Rashid

Similar to the way families are prone to have certain health concerns, such as diabetes or heart problems, the same is true for even the best cared for cat. Cats have some specific health concerns that should be learned if you own or are planning to own a feline friend.

Here are a few common concerns, including eye problems, diarrhea, colds, bites, and urinary or digestive problems:

Cats can catch a cold but it is common and is usually taken care of by their immune system. However, if a cat is not eating and appears lethargic, you should consult a vet for medication.

House cats do not need to worry, but if you allow your cat to go outside even part of the time, he or she may get into frequent fights with other animals. Bites and wounds could come from a variety of animals and should be taken care of by a vet immediately.

Outside cats also need to worry about picking up parasites such as tape worms, which result in diarrhea and vomiting. Vets have the medication to eliminate and prevent these parasites.

Cats that are not neutered can get a urinary tract infection which causes the cat to stop using the litter box and also gives the urine to have a distinct odor. These are symptoms that should be discussed with a vet quickly.

Cats will groom themselves and ingest fur which is normal and passes through their system, but it builds up in the stomach. This can cause a fur ball that is lodged in the intestines or digestive tract resulting in lethargy and constipation. Fur balls are usually coughed up. Brushing a cat frequently reduces fur balls.

Luckily, with new medicines, some fatal cat diseases are almost wiped out, including feline leukemia which is prevented with regular vaccines.

Remember your cat will show signs when he or she is sick and should be taken for regular vet visits.

Saman Rashid is an experienced writer who is very knowledgeable about pets. She has written various articles on pets to help people deal with their PET problems. For further details, please visit http://allpetsinformation.blogspot.com/

Heartworm Treatment For Cats

By Max Young

As most pet owners already know, heartworm treatment for cats and dogs isn't the same. Never, under any circumstances, should you give your cat heartworm treatment that is designed for a dog - or vice versa. Even though you may own both dogs and cats, you should always give them medicine that is designed for their species.

No matter how you look at it, heartworm treatment isn't easy. Your goal is to get rid of the heartworms, although there are several factors that you'll need to consider. The first thing to do is take your cat to the vet, as he will be able to run tests to determine just how many heartworms your pet has. He can also find out how the worms are affecting your cat and if your cat can deal with any side effects that the treatment medicine may impose.

Heartworms are a very serious condition, as the worms will feast on the vital areas around your cat's heart. Treatment can be serious as well, especially if something goes wrong. Veterinarians are trained to deal with heartworms though, in both cats and dogs. Even though you may be able to buy treatment medicine at your local department store, you should always consult with your vet before you give anything to your pet.

Treating your cat for heartworms may indeed be no treatment at all, as cats are extremely difficult to treat. The dying worms have side effects as well, often times causing more than 1/3 of the treated cats to end up with serious problems. Dying worms can become lodged in the arteries of the heart, which are already inflamed due to the worms being there. When a lodged worm starts to decompose, it can lead to very serious problems. Pets that have a serious infestation with heartworms may need to spend some time at the hospital, to ensure that they are properly treated.

Some cats may not be able to take a certain type of heartworm treatment medicine. Depending on the side affects and how the medicine affects the cat, some breeds may not be able to take some of the better medicines. To determine the best treatment options for your cat, your vet will need to run several tests. Once the tests have concluded, your vet will be able to tell you the best options available for treatment.

With all diseases, prevention is a lot better and safer than treatment. Be sure to talk to your vet and find out what heartworm prevention medication is the best to use. Your vet can tell you what you need to get, and how to use it. This way, you can prevent your pet from getting heartworms - and the serious side effects and life threatening issues that go along with them.

Max Young is an information researcher whom presents working information to be used for every day experiences. To get the inside word on preventing and dealing with problem behaviors like aggression and dominance in your dog/cat, click now on the following link. http://www.squidoo.com/why-dose-my-cat-bite

Understanding the Declawing of Your Cat

By Joseph Devine

When you bring a new pet into your home, there are a number of precautions that you need to take in order to ensure that your family and this new pet are safe. Cats can be social creatures with a strong relationship between them and their owners. If you are just bringing a kitten into your home, there are a few things that you should do to help your kitten become socialized well in your home.

Declawing your cat is an option for anyone wanting to protect their cat from being hurt. Before you make a decision such as this, you should take into consideration a few different factors. One of the first things that you should understand is that a cat's claws are not like a toenail. These claws are deeply embedded into a cat's paw. The claws are also attached to the last joint in each of the cat's toes. So, you should realize that taking the claws away may cause severe amounts of pain to the cat because you have to take out the last joint of the toe as well. Another fact that you should consider is that when you remove the claws, the doctor will be required to put the cat completely under in order to cut off the ends of the bones.

Some people consider this type of surgery to be inhumane for the cat. In different parts of Europe, this type of surgery is illegal because of the pain it causes to the cat. Declawing your cat is only an act done in America for our convenience. You should realize that the cat is going to require an extensive amount of time for recovery. Although it may not appear so, your cat is learning how to survive in a different way. The cat will not show any signs of pain, but it will be enduring a lot just to go about its daily tasks.

Declawing your cat is a major decision that needs to be made with both care and compassion. If you are even slightly unsure of your decision, you should not go through with it. You cat is made with claws for a reason, and you should take that into consideration when you are thinking about taking those claws away. Some cats also experience a change in personality when they undergo the declawing process.

For more information on declawing your cat, contact the New York Vet Clinics at http://www.newyorkveterinarianclinics.com Joseph Devine

Bengal Cats - The Hot New Pet

By Joseph Devine

When you are looking for a pet that is really on the exotic side, there are many different options that you can look into. Currently, exotic cats are becoming quite popular because of their overall look and size.

Bengal cats are slowly becoming one of the most popular cats available on the market right now. These types of cats are a new breed and only available at select breeders around the US and the UK. A Bengal cat is a cross between a normal domesticated cat and a Bengal tiger. These cats usually end up the size of a slightly larger house cat with features that generally relate to those of the Bengal. Most of these types of cats are considered exotic or specialty cats. There are many different types of these exotic cats depending on what exactly you are looking for in the color and personality of your cat.

Using a different type of breed such as this tends to show differences in the personality of the cat. These types of cats are much more attached to their owner. They also have slightly longer tails with much larger body frames. The overall size of the cat will make a large difference when it comes to how much this cat is able to eat. You need to be prepared for all that you will be responsible for when you purchase a cat such as this. These cats are also highly intelligent cats that will respond to any command that is given to them. They are also highly attracted to water, unlike a normal house cat. These cats have a tendency to play in and enjoy bath time because of the running water that they get to be around. Bengal tigers generally enjoy running water which is where this trait seems to come from. Most of these Bengal cats are slightly on the expensive side when you are purchasing them from a breeder. The reason they are highly priced is because of the genetic engineering that must take place in order to come out with a cat that looks like a miniature Bengal tiger.

Bengal cats prefer a wet food for their diet and will hardly eat any of a dry cat food. You should understand that it will be hard to find specific food for your special cat so you may have to try a few different brands before you find one that your cat will eat. Because these cats are special, they will usually require a special diet. You should also consider that Bengal cats require a lot of attention in order to continue to be happy in their world.

For more information, contact the Phoenix vet clinics at http://www.phoenixveterinarianclinics.com Joseph Devine

Cat Furniture - There Are Many Great Options For Cats to Enjoy

By Jennifer Akre

Some cats think they're dogs. Usually these are cats that have been raised with dogs and only learned how to act by a canine member of the family. Usually these felines will show traits of both animals - their instinctual cat traits and the learned dog traits. Because of this 'split-personality' you may have to purchase some cat furniture items that are not traditional for cats.

Sleeping Arrangements

Bed time is most of the day if you have a normal cat. But when a cat has been around a dog for most of its life, it may not be sure of what type of bed it should be in. While, by nature, cats usually like to perch high above the world and curl up to sleep, a cat that has been raised by a dog may also think lying on the floor by the side of your bed is a good place. If you have purchased a mat or bed for your dog, you are going to need to buy one of these pieces of cat furniture for your feline as well, so it can have it's own personal space near you.

Watching TV

Lots of dogs love to lounge in front of the TV with their owners and enjoy a lazy evening. Cats who think they are dogs will do this too. Once again, you need to consider the kinds of dog furniture you have and make sure the cat has complementary cat furniture in this space. While you may be tempted to let them split one bed, it is best to give each animal it's own personal space for the days they may not want to be that close to one another. Just like people, animals have their days when they want to be alone. Giving your cat his own cat furniture in the living room will make sure they can.

Meal Time

While a canine cat may run to their food dish beside the dogs when meal time comes up, you should not let them eat side by side. Dog food and cat food are not created the same, yet most dogs don't care and will dive into the cat's food bowl. So, you may want to consider elevated cat furniture in the kitchen. This will allow your cat food bowl to set up higher and keep the snooping dog out of the cat's meal.

Grooming

Many a cat, seeing the dog get a good brushing, will want one too. This is a great thing since the more your cat is brushed, the less cat hair he will be shedding all over the house and your furniture. The one important thing to keep in mind is that you should have different grooming items for each animal. Remember, while your cat thinks it's a dog, it still is a little more fragile than a dog and their skin can be sensitive. You should use a lighter cat brush on your feline to avoid any irritation. Also, note how your cat is responding. Some cats like being brushed in particular ways. Watch his response and change your tactics accordingly.

Author Jennifer Akre is an owner of a wide variety of online specialty shops that offer both items and information on how you can easily furnish and decorate your space. Whether it's your living, bedroom, or even your deck or patio, there are many tips you can use to make those spots both functional and beautiful for both humans and pets alike. Today, she offers advice on how to create a fabulous indoor area for your pet by using sturdy cat furniture and dog furniture. Each would be a great investment.

Signs of a Pregnant Cat

By Ian Pennington

If you have an unspayed cat or kitten and you are not an experienced professional breeder, you would be wise to have her spayed so as to prevent any unwanted pregnancies. Should you think that she is fertile and has been in contact with an un-neutered tom, you will need to know the signs of a pregnant cat. It is not always immediately apparent that your cat is expecting kittens and the first sign that you may notice is that she is not going through her regular heat cycle. If this is the case, she is almost certainly pregnant.

One of the other signs of a pregnant cat which shows itself quite early is a noticeable difference in her nipples. They will become slightly swollen and take on a pinkness in colour. This is called 'pinking' as is quite normal. They should not be sore or inflamed. Your cat will probably become more hungry than normal and start to become more interested in her food. This is a natural instinct to provide nutrition for her growing litter.

As with humans, you cat may suffer from some morning sickness. Again this is one of the normal signs of a pregnant cat and, unless it becomes excessive, there is no cause for concern. By all means contact your veterinarian practice if you feel that this is causing any trauma or if you feel that your cat is becoming dehydrated or malnourished as a result.

If you have not spotted any of these signs and are still unaware that your cat is pregnant, a swollen abdomen by about the fifth week of her pregnancy may give you a definite clue. One of the other signs of a pregnant cat is possible behavioural changes. Just like humans, a cat will start preparing for the new arrivals and show signs of nesting. They may start looking for places to give birth. It is a good idea to see where she is checking out as they do have a habit of having their litter in some pretty strange places. It would be wise to have an idea what plans she has. It would be awful to shut a cupboard door whilst she is inside! Behavioural changes may also include an increase in her affection. You may find that she is closer to you and a little clingy. Give her plenty of attention as she may be feeling a little worried about the changes, especially if this is her first litter.

Once you have spotted the signs of a pregnant cat and you are confident with your diagnosis, it is not always necessary to take her to the veterinarian surgery. If you feel that she is strong and well and her pregnancy is moving along without any problems you will just need to make sure that she has plenty of good food and water and is happy and healthy. If you are at all concerned, take her to receive medical advice straight away.

Ian Pennington is an accomplished niche website developer and author. To learn more about cat pregnancies, please visit Spay and Neuter Online for current articles and discussions.

Savanna Cats

By Elsa Albro

Savanna Cats are the result of breeding of an African Serval wild cat with a domestic cat. This produces a large, tall and slim, wild looking cat with a playful personality and dog-like loyalty.

Charecteristics

Savannah Cats are one of the larger breeds of domestic cats. The markings of the coat tend to be that of an exotic looking spotted tabby. The face of Savannah cats have a tear-stain marking from the inner point of the eye downward. The tall, erect ears have ocelli, a central light band bordered by black, dark grey or brown. The tail is short with black rings and a black tip. The eyes may be green, brown, or gold and are slightly hooded. Early generations were known for a light coat and dark spots. Today the breed standard identifies four color variations:

• Brown spotted tabby, shades of brown coat with dark spots
• Silver spotted tabby, silver coat with black or dark gray spots
• Black, black with black spots
• Black smoke, black tipped silver with black spots.

Temperament

Savannah Cats are playful and social, interested in dogs and children. They possess a dog-like loyalty and will follow their owners around the house and can also be trained to walk with a leash. They frequently greet people with head-butts or an unexpected pounce. Savannah Cats are known for their ability to jump from a standing position as high as eight feet to the tops of refrigerators and high cabinets. They have no fear of water, in fact, they may play in it.

History

In 1986, Judee Frank crossbred an African Serval with a domestic cat producing the first Savannah. In 1989 Patrick Kelly purchased one of Franks kittens and started pursuing other cat breeders in an attempt to develop this new breed. Finally Kelly convinced Joyce Sroufe to join him in founding the Savannah Cats breed and in 1996, they wrote the original version of the breed standard.

Early generations of Savannah Cats weighed from 10 - 25 lbs, while some breeders report Savannahs weighing in at 30 lbs. More recent generations are usually between 8 - 17 lbs. It was relatively common in the early generations for these cats to chirp and hiss, like their wildcat fathers, and meow, like their domestic mothers. The wildcat hissing sounds like a very loud snake hiss. However you don't hear the chirping and wildcat hissing as often in recent generations.

Some breeders recommended a diet which includes raw feeding of 32% protein and no grains or by-products. Otherwise, care and grooming of Savannah Cats ought to be kept up as with any other housecat; good nutrition, regular play and veterinary visits.

For more information on the care and feeding of our favorite furry pets, visit: lovefatcats.com lovefatcats.com

10 Reasons to Get a Cat

By Duncan Kelly

Your kids would like a cat. Especially your girl kids. They've told you that how many times. But you don't want to. What use is a cat, you think. But cats are great for building character, like suffering is.

There's lots of great reasons to get a cat. Here's 10 just to start with.

1. Cats help to get all that nasty, stuck on varnish off the legs of your furniture. It looked disgusting anyway, all yucky and brown. Bare wood is more natural, and splinters give it that rustic, homely look.

2. Cats protect your comfy chairs and couches by covering them with a thick layer of hair, and sometimes sticks, dust and small stones. This also gets to protect your gucchi pants, when it all sticks to them when you sit there. This is great, as it protects your fabrics from acid rain, nuclear radiation and the suns Xenta rays.

3. Cats prevent you from sleeping too much, by singing outside your window, or in your room, when they reckon you have overslept. This could be at 2am, but cats know best.

4. Cats help to keep a whole industry of cat food manufactures going. They use your money to do this. Doesn't this make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside!! Of course it does Dad!

5. Cats keep dogs fit. If it wasn't for cats, dogs would be fat, lazy bums with no recreational outlet. It also helps them to develop endurance barking talents.

6. Cats are a good gauge of how much frustration you can endure. When you can't get them off the roof just before going to a school parents evening, you really get to know yourself.

7. Cats teach you about nature. What kind of parasites drink blood, what the contents of an animal stomach look like on a clean carpet, what a dead rat looks like, and the makeup of hairballs. Fascinating stuff.

8. Cats help you to get to know your neighbours. Happy hours are spent shouting over the fence about the cat being in the neighbours house, shredding his curtains, terrifying his Pug dog and pleasantries like this.

9. Cats get rid of left overs, like the roast you took out to defrost, the fish you caught and were filleting when the phone rang, and the steak you had on the barbeque.

10. Cats keep you humble, by totally ignoring you when you call them, walking over you when you're sleeping and generally treating you like dirt.

Well, maybe these reasons are a bit thin, but cats are still good to have around. Watching them curl up and sleep in almost any place imaginable is quite an education. "How to Relax 101."

You have to admit, life would be a little boring without a cat in your life!

Like surprizes? visit the WrinklyO Web Node at http://wrinklyo.googlepages.com A lot of items are there that you may just be interested in. Check out the Promotions and Special Offers Page! May you have a successful day! Duncan Kelly

Getting the Right Cat Flap

By Derek Rogers

If you own a cat then you may have noticed that letting them in and out all of the time can be a nightmare. It is not always as simple as letting your cat out during the day and keeping them in at night. Your cat will meow when they want to go in and out and this can occur throughout the day and night.

It really can drive you insane having to constantly get up and open the door. However, there is an easier way and that is to install a cat flap.

What is a Cat Flap?

A cat flap is installed at the bottom of your outside door and it allows your cat to come in and out whenever it feels like it. There are a number of different designs available so you should easily be able to find one to suit your needs. However, there are some concerns regarding cat flaps and one of them is that many allow not only your cat to enter your home, but other cats too!

Luckily, there are alternatives available to stop stray cats from wandering into your house.

So just what options are available to you and how do you choose the best one to suit you?

How to Choose a Cat Flap

The main points to keep in mind when shopping for a cat flap include:

• Are there many other cats in your area?
• Do you want a basic flap or would you like added features?
• Do you want to be able to control the flap yourself?
• Do you want a particular style?
• What is your budget?

The above are just a few things that you should think about before purchasing a cat flap. Your budget will play a big part in the one you end up with. So before you do start looking, decide how much you can realistically afford to spend and then stick to it. Obviously if you want a flap which has many different features, you will have to expect to pay a little more than you would if you just bought a basic flap.

The features that you can choose from include a locking fixture, cat flaps which only allow your pet to activate the flap. Locking cat flaps allow you to close the flap whenever you need to. You can choose from 2 way or 4 way locking method. 2 way flaps allow you to simply lock from both ways; ensuring that your cat stays either in or out of the home when it is locked. 4 way locking cat flaps allow you to manually select whether you want it to stay locked from the inside, the outside or both. If you lock the flap from the inside then your cat will not be able to go back outside. However if you own more than two cats then your other cat will still be able to get in from the outside.

Overall, there are many options that you can choose from. Basic ones do work well, but obviously the more advanced options will allow you to control your cat's movements more.

Derek Rogers is a freelance writer who represents a number of UK businesses. For information on pet supplies, he recommends Seapets, one of the UK's leading suppliers of Cat Flaps.

Purrfect Home For Cats in Transition

By Debbie Foster

Have you ever gone to a humane society where the cats are treated like royalty? Me neither. Most (shelters~humane societies} have stacks of cat carriers as well as a playroom with cat beds and cat furniture. The playrooms are crowded with cats, some of which don't get along with each other. I thought this was pretty much the way they all were until I read about the Washington Animal Rescue League.

This place is a true utopia for cats who have been left behind. Their philosophy focuses on recovery and adoptions. Each cat has their own living area made of bacteria resistant material and no metal bars. Instead, tempered glass doors are used. This not only promotes recovery for the cats, but also allows great viewing for the people who pass by. Each space also has a couple of perches so the cat can have different vantage points. Additionally, each has a separate area for their litter box. What I thought was the most extraordinary feature was the ventilation system. They pump fresh air into each space every four minutes. Pretty sweet!

Of course there is a playroom, but not just your run of the mill cat playroom. This one has a ceiling high waterfall! Can I come stay there? There are various levels on both sides for cats to climb and play. Did I mention that only cats that get along with each other are put in the playroom at one time, and then only eight per play shift? These people thought of everything. They have big tree branches running throughout the playroom that get replaced a couple of times a year. Volunteers spend time with them in the playroom to acclimate them to humans. If I were a cat guest, which is what they really are, I might not want to leave this place!

The calming environment has paid off in numerous ways. They state the cats are less stressed. Also, with their high-tech ventilation system, they have seen a 95% reduction in airborne diseases. This goes hand in hand with their philosophy of recovery and well-being. The facility also reported a substantial growth in the number of adoptions. It seems people like to spend a few hours there as well ... no wonder.

It looks to me this place is a great model for other facilities to copy. We all want to promote a healthy environment and caring atmosphere for cats in shelters and this seems to be a great one.

An animal lover and advocate, Debbie Foster owns http://www.petbedsunlimited.com where you'll find a wide selection of quality pet beds, dog crates, dog carriers, dog pens, cat beds, cat carriers, large dog beds, pet strollers and more.

The Life Expectancy of Cats

By David Braybrooke

Of course none of us wants to face the reality of our beloved cat's mortality and contrary to folklore our feline friends do not have the legendary nine lives attributed to them. So how long will your lovable fur-ball live for?

The average age is between 10-16 years, with a few maybe reaching 20 or beyond. One exception was a cat named "Puss" who was said to have lived to 36! The particular breed of the animal may influence its final age, Siamese reputed to be one of the longest living varieties.

In recent times, advances in the control and treating of infectious diseases in felines, coupled with a greater understanding of nutritional requirements, has lead to an increased lifespan.

It seems a curious fact that cats are considered to be geriatrics between 10-13 years; in later life many cats benefit from specially designed diets to combat ailments (especially chronic kidney failure) thus extending their life expectancies by a bit. Cancer, Diabetes mellitus, hypertension and an inflamed bowel are other conditions that a responsible owner should be on the lookout for.

For tomcats, neutering them may increase their lifespan as fewer territorial fights will keep them in better shape for longer. Spaying a queen (female cat) appears to have a lesser effect on how long they live.

If you consider that one cat year is roughly equal to about seven human years, then a 10-16 year lifespan is quite respectable really; look after your special friend well over a lifetime and you may have a healthy, thriving puss well into its vintage years.

Improving the quality and length of your beloved pet's life is quite possible if you pay attention to a healthy diet, sensible exercise regime and have regular check-ups at the Veterinarian. Protect your cat from unnecessary dangers, fighting and other types of cat-related violence and who knows, they may even outlive you!

Nine lives? Maybe not, but one long, happy life is definitely possible.

For more great cat articles, please visit: http://fatherspirit-catablog.blogspot.com/

How to Trim Your Cat's Claws

By David Braybrooke

In order to save your beloved furniture or even yourself from damage, it is important to clip your cat's claws on a regular basis; aim for at least once a month unless your pet has been surgically de-clawed by a vet.

Although cats who spend a lot of time outdoors will naturally 'strop' their nails against posts and trees, indoor cats will need greater attention.

One must take great care when trimming a cat's claws in order not to unduly harm the poor animal. It is strongly advisable to get your vet to show you how to best clip your pet's claws before you yourself attempt it at home.

Although most Pet stores sell purpose made claw clippers, ordinary human nail clippers are probably just as effective and cheaper. However, some people insist that only special pet clippers should be selected so use your own discretion on this.

Follow these steps when clipping:

(1) Hold the cat firmly, without hurting it, or even get a friend to assist in this.

(2) As cats' claws are retractable, you need to push each individual pad, on top ot the toe, to reveal the unsheathed claw, one at a time.

(3) Take note of the two different colors of the claw, a pink middle section next to a whitish covering that extends to the pointed end of the claw.

(4) ONLY cut the clear, white section, where the dead cells are and never the pink section, or quick; this is where the blood vessels and nerves are; if you draw blood, keep free from any germs. If your cat has black claws only remove the section that curls under.

If the procedure is started at the kitten stage, your pet will soon become used to having its claws trimmed.

If easier, only cut a couple of nails at a time or wait until your cat is napping before clipping. Remain calm and collected as your cat will likely sense any anxiety in you and become restless.

Occasionally, some cats are born with more than five nails on each foot, (and four on each back foot); this condition is called 'Polydactyl' and great care must be taken to keep nails trimmed in order to prevent ingrown toenails.

Keep your cat's claws regularly trimmed and you'll save on furniture and clothing repair bills; a scratching post kept indoors may also help with claw maintenance, and help keep your home in ship-shape.

For more great cat articles please visit: http://fatherspirit-catablog.blogspot.com/

Guide to Spaying and Neutering Cats

By David Braybrooke

When it comes to de-sexing one's cat many owners have a crisis of conscience; should I have my lovable puss spayed or my gregarious tom neutered? Rest assured, a sterilized cat lives a happier, healthier life and often makes a much better pet than an intact animal.

Be aware that if you don't have your beloved pet 'fixed-up' it may be prone to a host of feline diseases and ailments, and if you've ever smelt the pervasive odor of an intact tomcat's urine you'll be straight off to the vet without a moments hesitation!

With a male cat (neutering or castration), both testicles are surgically removed. The procedure is done under general anesthetic and for the testes to be removed only tiny incisions are needed, usually with no stitches required. Kittens and adult cats can be neutered starting as young as six months old before puberty strikes, however some claim that the operation can occur at an even younger age than this; consult your vet. Your post-op infertile cat should become less aggressive and territorial, will roam less and, thankfully, won't spray that horrid scented urine! An added benefit is that your tom will not develop testicular cancer and will have a lesser chance of suffering prostate problems.

For female cats (queens), renowned for being very efficient breeders, it is wise to have them spayed by six months of age. In springtime and in households with more than one cat, reproduction can actually occur earlier than this. A cat in heat often displays strange behavior, with distinct howls and pained writhing so be alert to these signs. Spaying or 'ovariohysterectomy', surgically removing the uterus and ovaries, is performed under general anesthesia. The incision in the cat's abdomen is closed up with stitches often needing removal after 10 days. As with toms, de-sexed queens are less likely to develop certain diseases; the chances of having malignant breast cancer or 'pyometra' (uterine infection) are greatly reduced.

Although neutering and spaying are irreversible procedures it is worth reminding that tens of thousands of unwanted cats are put to death each year in the United States alone. Considering this alarming statistic it may be a wise idea to seriously consider having your beloved pet neutered. The procedures are safe, affordable and if any post operative complaints occur it is a simple matter of returning to the Vet for further advice.

Be responsible and have your cat de-sexed and be content in knowing that none of your beloved companion's positive personality traits will be affected.

For more great cat articles, please visit: http://fatherspirit-catablog.blogspot.com/

Cat Breed - Scottish Fold

By David Braybrooke

The unusual looking Scottish Fold is a variety of cat that comes in a short-haired and long-haired breed (sometimes called the Highland Fold). The first of its type was born in the early 1960s on a Scottish farm, its distinguishing feature being a gene that produces either single, double or triple folded ears, the only known cat breed in existence to have this.

Initially it was thought that the Scottish Fold cat was prone to deafness owing to its rather peculiar shaped ears and was not popular in its homeland yet in 1973 it was officially recognized as a breed in the U.S. The breeding of this type of cat is best left to experts owing to potential genetic problems with offspring, including joint afflictions.

Tending to weigh in at 2.4-6kg (6-13 lb) being medium-sized with shortish legs and round, well-padded feet. Colors and patterns are varied and brown tabby, red tabby, lilac and white fur are usual. A "patched tabby" or "torbie" variety, being a combination of tortoiseshell and tabby also exists. They have large, round eyes and a curious dome-shaped head.

Scottish Folds can being either long or short-haired may have any coat color combination except for Siamese-style points. Pointed Folds have been bred but they are not eligible for showing. The original cats only had one fold in their ears, but as mentioned due to selective breeding they have increased the fold to a double or triple crease that causes the ear to lie totally flat against the head.

This breed of cat, whether with folded ears or with normal ears, are typically good-natured and placid, and are known for sleeping on their backs. They tend to become very attached to their human caregivers and are by nature quite affectionate.

Scottish Folds typically have soft voices and display a complex repertoire of meows and purrs not found in better-known breeds.

These cats have confident, well-behaved temperaments and well-developed curiosities and are known to be a hardy and happy breed; also being affectionate and fond of human contact, playful but not overly extroverted.

A Scottish Fold makes an ideal choice as a unique, family-friendly pet.

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Cat Breed - Exotic Short-hair

By David Braybrooke

The Exotic short-hair cat, sometimes called "the lazy man's Persian" or "the Teddy bear cat", was produced in the mid-1900s when American breeders crossed a Persian with an American short-hair in an effort to improve the type of their cats.

They are commonly considered to be a short-haired version of the Persian with the advantage being that they don't require the amount of grooming that a Persian does. The Exotic short-hair gained official classification as a breed in 1967.

This type of cat was also crossed with the Russian Blue and the Burmese, to produce a very exotic looking and hardy breed of feline!

As cats, they tend to have a medium to large sized body weighing from 3-6.5 kg (7-14 lb), being fairly heavy set with short, sturdy legs. Their tails are short and the Exotic has a dense, short coat that is a little longer than most other short-hair breeds. They have broad heads with large, well-rounded eyes set far apart, similar to a Persian cat.

Available colors include black, white, blue, cream, red and brown tabbies, color-pointed and bi-color, amongst others.

They are renowned as making excellent pets being placid and friendly, with a bit more sociability than the average Persian and are inclined to be more agile too. Usually affectionate sorts they are however sometimes prone to aloofness. Curiosity abounds and an ability to get along with other cats, pets and even dogs makes the Exotic short-hair a popular choice; they also make excellent lap cats and tend to be on the quiet side as far as cats go.

Exotic short-hair cats are a very robust and healthy breed and make ideal pets for the cat lover!

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Cat Breed - American Bobtail

By David Braybrooke

The American bobtail is one of the newer cat breeds, originating in the United States in the 1960s; its actual ancestry is not well-documented but they are thought to have derived from a Siamese cross. They are in fact such a new breed that they only became formerly recognized, by the International Cat Association, as recently as 1989.

Being known as a tailless breed (with very short, stubby 'bobbed' tail growth), owing to a genetic mutation, similar to the Manx, they come in a large range of colors with varied patterned furs like mink, sepia and pointed; white, red tabby, blue tabby and fawn and white are the commonly available colors.

To look at, the American bobtail has a strong, hearty physique with medium size muscled bodies, heavy legs and large paws. They appear somewhat wild, with heavy-browed, oval-shaped eyes like those of a hunter and have short-hair coats that can grow sufficiently long to almost appear somewhat shaggy rather than dense or fluffy. This type of cat is a very sturdy breed and there are actually a small number of long-haired American bobtails but they are comparatively rare.

The bobtail tends to weigh between 3-7 kg (7-15 lb) and possesses a friendly and curious nature, although they may shy away from strangers. Temperament wise they tend to be fairly placid cats yet quite playful. One notable point is they are usually very quiet, their voices rarely heard.

This type of cat is know for its energy levels and love of exercise, being both playful and affectionate; they're fun-loving, frisky, but not overactive.

The American bobtail is renowned for having a friendliness towards dogs, other pets and sometimes even strangers! They are easy to train, have an uncanny watchdog ability and are very protective; these cats are very efficient groomers and have an inbuilt tolerance to both cold and hot weather.

As a choice of pets they might appeal to an older person who would likely appreciate the American bobtail's quiet nature.

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Cat Breed - Abyssinian

By David Braybrooke

The Abyssinian cat is commonly believed to date back to the 1860s, originating in Ethiopia, yet some people claim that the breed can be traced back to the ancient cats of Abyssinia, now called Egypt.

It is one of the oldest known breeds, the first one being brought to England in 1868. The Abyssinian was officially recognized as a distinct breed in 1882.

They are known for their sharp intelligence, litheness and a refined, pleasant demeanor, often becoming very attached to their owners. Abyssinians are extroverted and willful with a curious and adventurous nature being the norm; they are active, playful and inquisitive!

This cat has a medium length body with well-developed muscles, and short, silky, fine, close-lying coats; their faces have round, almond-shaped eyes, green, hazel or amber in color. They have legs of moderate length; size-wise they tend to weigh between 4-7.5kg (9-16lb).

The tail is fairly long, broad at the base and tapering to a point. Abyssinian's have fine bone structures and their paws are small and oval-shaped.

The cat's ears are alert and relatively large, broad and cupped at the base; they have an M-shaped marking found in fur on the forehead.

The Abyssinian has a "ticked" coat, meaning that each hair, light in color, has several dark bands which are evenly spaced. This coloring results in an ideal camouflage for the dry desert lands of North Africa.

These days, the Abyssinian comes in a range of different colors. Anything from red through fawn, lilac, cinnamon, cream and chocolate, amongst others.

They are a popular cat breed and are generally healthy except for occasional blindness, especially an inherited form called retinal atrophy. Although making good companions they can be suspicious of strangers.

Abys, the term used fondly by owners, are hardy and adaptable as pets and are a popular breed for showing; a good choice for any prospective cat owner!

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Four Common Causes of Feline Vomiting

By D Swain

Occasional incidents of feline vomiting is usually nothing to worry about if your cat otherwise appears healthy. Mild conditions can cause your cat to vomit, but it can also be a symptom of a more serious disease. Some of the common causes include parasites, hairballs, and infections. Let's take a look at some of these causes of feline vomiting.

Parasites

The first main cause of vomiting is an infestation of parasites. There are various species of worms that can live in your cat's stomach or small intestine. You may be able to see them in your cat's feces or vomit. It's best to get your cat on deworming medication as soon as possible as an infestation can open your cat to other complications.

Hairballs

Hairballs are also a common cause of feline vomiting. They form as a result of ingested hair that your cat swallows while grooming. Although hairballs can be a problem with all cats, those with long hair develop them most often. To prevent them from forming, you could give your cat more fiber in his diet and groom him yourself on a daily basis.

Infections

The next reason your cat could be vomiting is because he has a viral infection. These viruses can affect the stomach or part of t he intestinal tract. It is also common for your cat to have diarrhea also. Most viral infections will go away after a few days when the body's defenses kick in.

Diet

Your cat's particular diet can also cause him to vomit. Various things like garbage, chocolate, or onions can also cause feline vomiting. Poisonous chemicals such as antifreeze can also be to blame. You should also make sure that your cat doesn't ingest human medications. Your cat may also be simply eating his food too fast. This can be a problem in a multi-cat household where one cat fears another will eat his food.

As a cat owner, you want to keep your special friend as healthy as possible. To learn more about various cat illnesses such as feline lymphoma, stop by cat-illnesses.com. Your cat will thank you for it.

Blindness in Cats - Five Common Causes of Feline Blindness

By D Swain

Cats naturally have superior vision. However, there are various conditions that can cause blindness in cats. Some of these conditions include hypertension, glaucoma, and cancer. Let's take a look at some of these causes of feline blindness.

Hypertension

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is one of the leading causes of blindness in cats. If left untreated, the pressure can cause the retina to rupture. This can occur in just a matter of days. Cats that have kidney disease, diabetes, or hyperthyroidism have the highest risk of developing hypertension.

An early sign that your cat is suffering from high blood pressure is the presence of dilated pupils. The pupils won't respond to a change in light, and there also may be blood in your cat's eye. Hypertension is dealt with by treating the underlying cause. Your cat may also need to start eating foods low in sodium.

Glaucoma

One of the next common causes of feline blindness is glaucoma. Glaucoma is a condition in which there is too much pressure within the eye. It is also a common problem for humans. If your cat is diagnosed in the early stages, the pressure may be reduced via medications. If it has already progressed, your cat may need surgery to correct the problem.

Cancer

Another cause of blindness in cats is cancer. Tumors can grow in or around the eye. In most cases, the eye will need to be surgically removed. However, it is usually replaced with a prosthetic eye to give a more natural look.

Atrophy

Progressive retinal atrophy is an untreatable condition that leads to feline blindness. Most cats suffer from this condition because they inherited it. The disease progresses slowly over time, but will lead to total blindness.

Kidney Disease

One of the final common causes is kidney disease. It is common for older cats to suffer problems like chronic renal failure as they age. Unfortunately, chronic renal failure leads to hypertension. As stated earlier, hypertension can easily cause sudden blindness in cats if the retina ruptures.

As a cat owner, you want to keep your special friend as healthy as possible. To learn more about various cat illnesses such as feline constipation, stop by cat-illnesses.com. Your cat will thank you for it.

Cats and the Single Woman

By Cindy Novak

How is it that cats have evolved as a woman's choice of pets? Although far from the truth-- many women are die hard dog fans as are many men cat lovers-- the cat has always been associated with the female sex. Let us take a good look at why.

First of all, let's face it, cats are sexy. They slink around, they have a sensuous walk, and they remain aloof yet seek attention. Their stare is mysterious and they are independent yet love to be caressed. With the exception of Garfield, most women consider it an asset to have certain feline qualities. Although the neighborhood "cat woman" is considered to be an elderly outcast who surrounds herself with cats and open tuna cans, Batman's nemesis Catwoman certainly gave a hot, new twist to that image as well.

In ancient Egypt, the cat was taken in as a wild, untamed creature used to kill off vermin. She slowly became domesticated and eventually worshipped for her grace and poise. In the mind of a woman, not only would she want to be associated with such a creature, but she most certainly would want a man to view her that way as well. Thus, the concept of a woman aligned with a feline creature became desirable. Even the soothing purr of a cat is enticing compared to the harsh bark of a dog.

So, are men really attracted to "cat-like" women? The answer is a resounding: Yes! What man wouldn't want a beautiful, delicate creature swooshing up next to him, begging for attention with the unspoken promise of making it more than worth his while? How could he resist the swaying of the hips, the soft, delicate gait in those steps? And of course, how could he resist the gentle purring in his ear? That is until he realizes that his feline is an independent creature that does as she pleases, will tease him then leave him, and can oftentimes be devious and underhanded in order to get what she wants. At that point, he realizes that, although not as beautiful to look at, he 's best off coming home to a dog.