Training - Cat and Kitten Training

By Nick Earl

To own a family pet is taking on extra responsibility and you must have some fundamental knowledge about its grooming and other needs. This goes for every animal so if you are favoring the feline types, you must know all about cat care. Possessing a pet cat is not as plain as bring one stray cat home and feeding it regularly. If you think that food is the single thing you have to supply for your cat, you are very wrong.

Responsible Ownership

Just like humans cats too have some base needs to be fulfilled which would keep them merrily purring and you have to work hard to get these organized. Caring for cats is more than just caring as you got to know what to do and how to do it. As a conscientious cat owner, here are some things to look out for.

Food Requirement

You might know some people who simply throw left over foods to their cats, but think you and I could not have it. This is not adequate for the family cats so it is time to look at the local pet shop for provisions. Consider what might be the best cat food that you can afford and that almost all cat owners would also recommend. Normally the cat food costs between and per month to Purchase the right kind of nutritional food for your pet. This can easily fit into your monthly family budget if you slow down your movie going outlay or cut out that smoking habit. This can ensure the right measure of food for your cat.

A roof over their heads

Ensure that the environment is safe for the animal, if the cat stops with you. Much like the way we take care to remove all dangerous and hazardous things from the area, when we have a child in the house. You also have to supply a litter box for your pet and the price for this varies from to about 0 for the superb choice litter tray. Keep the cat shelter warm and this adds to your caring list.

How to keep them healthy

Just like any child, your cat needs to be checked on a regular basis by a veterinarian and you also need to take him to the veterinarian for getting spayed or neutering as the process is also called. There are also core inoculations that they have to be given but each vaccine will differ in cost so you have to save up for them individually. To avoid any trouble, ask your veterinarian how much the next vaccination would cost and save up for it, plus, your cat would need an annual examination from the vet.

It makes sense if you save some money for any emergency need like the cat falling sick suddenly or a mishap on the road where the cat is involved. It is better to be prepared for the worst than to be sorry in the end. Cat care may be easy to say but definitely hard to do if you are not prepared for the responsibilities it involves so before you dream of being a care giver to a pet, think hard about it and check your wallet.

To get a step by step blueprint for how to train your cat to behave the way you want, take a look at getting the Complete Cat Training guide, I have personally used this guide to learn all the stuff I now know about training my cats to be well mannered and behaved. Why wait to find out the hard way like I did with my cats, see how to do it the easy way. This article maybe used freely by others, as long as they keep the resource box as is.

Exotic Cat Breeds

By Michael Ron

To some people cats may all seem alike, despite differences in color or size. Certainly cats appear more similar than dogs, which range from the towering Great Dane to the tiny Chihuahua. But cats do have their own breeds within the species just like dogs, and each has its own unique characteristics. Imagine a cat that likes to swim, or one that's related to a tiger! Sounds unreal, but it isn't. Many domestic cats have been interbred with wild species to produce gorgeous and extremely intelligent pets. If you are thinking about a cat why not try one of these breeds?

Bengal

The Bengal breed originated when cat fanciers mixed a domestic cat with the Asian Leopard cat. The result was an extremely intelligent and beautiful pet. Bengals are often gray with striping or rosettes, and sometime have a gold dusting that looks like glitter. Bengals can mature at anywhere from 10-14 pounds, but some males reach larger sizes. Bengals are a very vocal cat, and will chirrup at things that interest them, and yowl when they want something. They also defy the idea that cats hate water. Bengals love water and some will even swim. Like a dog a Bengal will chase his tail, fetch for you, and walk on a leash.

Chausies

The Chausie is a result of mixing a domestic cat and the wild jungle cat (Felix chaus). Chausies are also known as "stone cougars" because their solid light brown hide and head shape are reminiscent of a cougar. These cats are also larger than their fellow domestic cats, getting up to twenty-five pounds in some cases. Like Bengals, Chausies are very intelligent and like to play and walk on leashes. Chausies must be at least four generations removed from their wild ancestors to be legally owned, and some cities have restrictions beyond that. Check with your local government to make sure a Chausie (or a Bengal) would be legal and welcome in your town.

Toyger

Imagine having a tiny tiger of your own! With the Toyger breed, it's now becoming possible. Toygers are actually the result of selective breeding of tabby cats; they have no wild stock in them. The reason the breed was developed was to create a domestic cat that resembled the wild tiger and would remind people about the plight of the great feline. Toygers are still being developed, but the choice members of the breed have dark pumpkin colored fur mixed with horizontal black stripes, just like a tiger! For the most part Toygers will act like other domestic cats.

Ocicat

The Ocicat is another example of breeding domestic cats to achieve and aesthetic look like a wild cat, in this case the ocelot. Ocicats come in also shades, from silver to chocolate, but they all share the spotting that makes them look so like their wild cousins. Some say Ocicats look a lot like the Bengal. Unlike the Bengal however they do not have wild ancestors, and behave more like your regular domestic cat, albeit with a gorgeous coat!

There are many other varieties of cats, some with long hair, some with no hair, and some with just enough. But whichever kind of cat you choose for a companion, remember that you are their guardian and provider. Good luck finding the exotic feline of your dreams!

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Cat Or Kitten - Either is a Good Choice!

By Audrey Frederick

Are you thinking of getting a cat or kitten? Whether you are a newcomer (a person that has never had a cat) or an old cat person (age does not matter) let's explore life living with a cat.

A cat is not a dog. A cat will never react as a dog would when greeting you on your arrival home. However, that does not take away from the sincerity of your cat's feeling for you.

Did you know that cats have been around for about 50 million years and have lived everywhere on earth except Antarctica? There are more than 65 million cats living in American homes. Cats out rank dogs as the number one domestic pet.

Cats are considered to be one of the most intelligent of all domestic animals. Granted they do not do "dog tricks," but with patience you can teach a cat many tricks.

Cats are carnivores, which means they are meat eaters. A cat cannot be a vegetarian, as vegetables do not provide the protein and other vitamins a cat needs to survive.

Having a pet, be it a cat or dog, is rather like getting married. First you get engaged (getting to know one another) then you get married (sharing your everyday life) and then hopefully live happily ever after. That statement gives you an idea of the commitment necessary when you decide to get a cat. This "long term" obligation deserves serious thought.

Cats live a long time. My Mr. Whiskers lived for 18 years. A normal life span for a cat can be from 12 to 20 some odd years. So commitment has to be one of your first thoughts.

Can you commit? Granted no one knows what the future may bring and there are circumstances that may alter your life's plan. The question here is, barring anything unforeseen, are you willing to make the commitment?

If you are looking for a "short term" relationship forget it. The animal shelters and streets are filled with unwanted cats that people have left to fend for themselves.

Having made the decision to get a cat or a kitten. You need to take some time to consider your lifestyle, finances and how much free time you will have to devote to your cat. Yes, cats do sleep a lot, but they need playtime and your time.

Do you have regular business hours or are you on a schedule that is erratic? Cats like routine.

Does your job or current lifestyle cause you to travel a great deal? If you do travel, do you have someone reliable to become the second caregiver for your cat?

Do you currently have another pet? Have you taken into consideration the time it will take to introduce the new arrival to your current pet? Are you on a tight budget? A cat or kitten costs money. There are vet visits, food, toys, grooming supplies and litter to buy.

No matter how tired you are when you come home from work your cat or kitten will need care and some of your time. Remember that your cat has been home all day by itself. I have 3 cats and I work plus I have a husband (all of whom require a great deal of time and care.) I know the value of available time and how it can be frustrating when time seems to be fleeting. Keep this in mind as you mull over your decision to get a cat or kitten.

You have made your decision and you are really going to get a cat/kitten. Where do you go to find your cat? Shelters are a good source, especially if you are looking for an older cat. Shelters usually have a surplus of kittens, too. Breeders are also a great place to look if you are looking for a particular breed of cat. Friends and neighbors often have kittens available.

Do not under any circumstance go anywhere on the "spur of the moment" or on an "impulse" to get a cat or kitten.

Right here and now take a deep breath and make this promise to yourself: " I will take my time, I will not be impulsive. I will visit with each cat or kitten to see which one likes me and which one I am attracted to."

Shelters have rooms where you can visit each cat by itself. Breeders will let you have time to visit and play with each kitten and certainly your friends and neighbors will be delighted to give you all the time you need and want.

One thing to keep in mind is if you are holding a cat or kitten and it tries to get away from you, do not take it. Find a cat or kitten that relaxes, possibly purrs and feels at ease with you. That cat will be a winner and you both will be a happy pair.

If you have decided on a kitten and can afford the time and money, two kittens are better than one. Two will entertain themselves while you are at work and two will definitely entertain you when you are home. Of course, it is also double trouble.

If you are looking for someone a little more settled may I suggest an older cat. By older I mean a cat that is at least one year old or more. Shelters are full of older cats. Many people move and cannot take their cats. Some people for a variety of reasons have to give up their cats. These cats are truly the "pearls" of catdom." These cats will appreciate a new loving home. They will love you with all their hearts. Take your time in picking one out. Again, find one that feels at ease with you, possibly purrs and that you feel comfortable with.

In deciding whether to get a male or female, the choice is really a matter of preference. I currently have 2 males and a female. I find the males more affectionate. My female is very independent. All three are offspring of feral mothers.

It is very important if you are looking for a kitten to be certain the kitten has been socialized. A socialized cat will be one that has been lovingly handled, played with, has been around people and other animals outside the litter and children. A cat that has not been socialized will be afraid of people and literally scared of everything.

My Boots is my 11-year-old Tuxedo cat that was not socialized as a kitten and he is scared of his own shadow. My brother gave shelter to a feral female cat that had 3 kittens. He did not have time to socialize them. I took Boots at 9 weeks, but it was already too late to really make him feel comfortable. Both his mother and father were feral cats and that may be the reason he is so skittish.

In spite of all his problems, when the mood strikes him, he is the most lovable cat I have known. It takes a great deal of patience on my part to deal with his problems on a daily basis, as every day his reactions to some of the same things change. However, my husband and I for some reason love him best.

While you have been in the "getting a cat" thinking mood, you also should have been thinking of finding a veterinarian. This person is going to become an important part of your cat's life and yours.

You need to visit several clinics, talk to the vet (your personalities need to mesh) and find out if the hours they are open coincides with your work schedule.

Once you have your cat or kitten it is a good idea to take your pet to your vet for a check up. This is especially important if you have another cat at home. You do not want to bring home any unwanted diseases or infections. If your kitten has not been started on its kitten shots; this would be a good time to start.

If you are bringing a kitten home be certain to get all the feeding information. It is important that you feed your kitten the food it is used to and hopefully you will be able to keep the same feeding schedule.

A kitten up to 12 weeks of age needs to be fed at least 4 times a day and sometimes more if they are small eaters. Kittens have very small tummies and need to eat often.

Be certain you feed your kitten only food made specifically for kittens. Do not feed adult food to a kitten. Kitten food is made with all the necessary vitamins and minerals a kitten needs to grow into a beautiful cat. From 3 months to about 6 or 7 months feeding your cat 3 times a day seems to be enough. However, it really depends on the cat. Some cats are grazers (mine are) and like to eat small amounts at a time, but often. This is where a good quality dry food is a blessing. Dry food is available for kittens. Be certain you buy a high quality brand and not something inexpensive.

After the 7th month you can begin a twice a day, morning and night schedule. I feed my cats 3 times a day even though they are older. They are used to it and it fits my work schedule. I leave dry food out all the time and feed them wet food (canned or foil packets) at their feeding times. As you and your cat bond your, feeding routines will work themselves out. Kitty will be certain to tell you what it wants and when.

This article is just the tip of the iceberg in the continuing relationship between you and your cat. If this article has been of benefit, please visit my web site and blog at http://www.cats-and-dogs-on-the-web.com for more information an life with a cat or kitten.

Food Allergy In Cats - The Feline Perspective!

By Abhishek Agarwal

Food allergies do attack Dogs and cats. To own a pet cat does have its rewards and you seem to have a companion when your alone at home. Are u aware that even if your companion is jus four or five months old, it could have food allergy? Majority of cats show symptoms between two to six years. The cats which are affected have concurrent inhalant or contract allergies.

Often, Pet owners get confused between food allergy and intolerance of food. The first one is a result of vomiting or diarrhea which doesn't invite any allergic response. The latter is the true allergy where itching and skin problems are the main symptoms. The only common thing among them is that both conditions are removable when a planned diet is carefully carried out. Be sure your cat doesn't swallow unnecessary things outside or the dirt at home. It might prove to be costly.

In cats, allergic reactions are caused by foods like beef, fish, and dairy products. The offenders are also considered common ingredients in their food. There are antigenic proteins than the rest of proteins. The proteins in food are generally similar and exposure is associated with the allergic responses.

Itchy skin is the main symptom when your cat suffers from food allergy. Excessive scratching; hair loss and military dermatitis are other symptoms too. You wont be able distinguish in case your cat has food allergy if u base your evaluation on physical signs.

Your cat may be suffering from allergy if during the beginning of winter the cat suffers from an allergic reaction. The alternate confirmation that your pet has an allergy is when your cat?s itchy skin doesn't respond to antihistamines or steroid treatment.

Before obtaining diagnosis for food allergy, your cats other problems must be treated and identified. It could suffer from parasite hypersensitivities, atopy, and allergies with flea bites, yeast infections, bacterial or seborrhea. If these problems are solved and your cat still shows symptoms, then probably u should be ready to carry the food trial.

The food trial should have carbohydrate and novel food which will last for 12 weeks. You can have the diet homemade or get it in the market. During the trial period do not give your cats any treats. Make sure it goes through a well balanced diet so that it won?t get sick.

If you observe any marked reduction or elimination of the symptoms, you should carry on with provocative testing, which means the original food must be given. This is important to confirm or prove the diagnosis. Incase the symptoms gets back after consuming the original food, it confirms your diagnosis.

You will have two choices after such confirmation. You can feed the cat a commercial or a homemade diet. The first option requires you to purchase food every time which adds to cost. The second option your cat could be challenged by providing other ingredients that don?t produce allergic reactions. You must be sure about the amount of ingredients.

Whatever you do and choose, you?re doing it only for the cat?s well-being.

Abhishek has got some great Allergy Relief Secrets up his sleeves! Download his FREE 54 Pages Ebook, "How To Win Your War Against Allergies!" from his website http://www.Health-Whiz.com/552/index.htm. Only limited Free Copies available.

Food Allergy In Cats - Symptoms, Treatments And Diagnosis

By Abhishek Agarwal

Not only humans' Even animals are affected by food allergy. It mainly affects cars and is rated among the main causes of atopy, flea bite allergies. Cats usually develop allergies from constantly fed kind of foods.

Often cats are sensitive to a certain type of food ingredient. So, an antibody in their intestinal tracts responds, leading to food allergy. Among all other type of allergies, with a 10% ratio allergies caused by food are more prone to cats.

Food allergies affect male, neutered cats and also female ones. It is also a misconception connecting specific breed of cats to allergies caused by food. This condition can initially create symptoms for cats from four months young to eleven years old. But majority of food allergy cases occur between 3- 6 years in cats. These cats are also in connection with inhalant allergies.

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The main difference between food intolerance and food allergy should be learned to correctly manage allergy in cats. Allergy caused by food are taken as true allergies revealing symptoms like itching and skin problems associated with feline and canine allergies. Incase diarrhea or vomiting happens without creating allergic responses, it means that it's only intolerance of food. Cat food intolerance is similar to a human having a stomach ache or diarrhea as a result of consuming spicy food or eating food that is fried. By utilizing foods food intolerance and allergies can be prevented. This doesn't offend the agents.

Many studies reveal that few ingredients of food are the main causes of allergies when compared to the rest. The main common causes in cats are dairy products, fish and beef. Many pet owners would have observed that the following ones are the main ingredients found in foods that are consumed by the cat. Even though few proteins are more antigenic, it still comes in similar forms. So, this reaction depends mostly on the quantity of exposure.

The symptoms of this allergy in cats are most likely the same to most kinds of allergies. But the major ones are excessive scratching, hair loss, military dermatitis and itchy skin. For pet owners it is difficult to distinguish cars that suffer from atopy or food allergy by physical signs. But, they must suspect food allergy if these symptoms begin to take place during winter or through out the year and the cats fail to respond to antihistamine or steroid treatment.

When you figure out the symptoms of different allergies in cats it is very simple to diagnose the allergy. Symptoms of food allergy are similar to that of bacterial, notoedric mange, hypersensitivity to intestinal parasites, seborrhea and yeast infections.

It is necessary to carry out food trials. Elimination and provocative testing diets could be done. One should feed the cat with foods that has carbohydrates, proteins for 11 - 12 weeks without any treats. A typical instance is potato and venison or potato and duck. These foods are commercially available in the market or could be homemade. Young and growing cats have special nutritional needs. Diets made at home containing a carbohydrate and a protein eliminating multivitamins and fatty acids could be fed for 12 weeks. Food trials for kitten are carried out by giving a commercially balanced diet. After few weeks, feed the cat with previous food that they once have consumed. In case the symptoms are shown then it's surely food allergy. Others perform blood testing which is not accurate when compared to trials (food).

Feed the cats with commercial diets from hill or Purina or homemade diets which makes treatment of allergy simple and easy.

Abhishek has got some great Allergy Relief Secrets up his sleeves! Download his FREE 54 Pages Ebook, "How To Win Your War Against Allergies!" from his website http://www.Health-Whiz.com/552/index.htm. Only limited Free Copies available.