Love Cat Stories

Cat Health Care Tips

2008-11-28T11:45:00.001-08:00

By Trevor Kassulke

Taking care of a cat to insure proper health care for your cat is very important. You don't want to inadvertently do something that will make your cat sick or ill. Some well intentioned things that cat owners might do can actually be damaging to cat health.

One of the important things to consider in Cat Health Care is the proper feeding of your cat. The best foods for your cat are the commercially prepared foods, as home prepared diets, especially vegetarian diets, are not properly balanced for cats and can contain too much or too little of the nutrients necessary for cats, leading to illness. For proper care you should be sure that you don't give your cat chocolate or onions. Treats like fish and liver can be given on special occasions. Carbohydrates like rice, pasta, and potatoes can be mixed into your cat's food for variety. However, the majority of your cat's diet should consist of commercially prepared hard cat food since this will help keep the cat's teeth and body as healthy as possible.

It is not healthy for cat's to get too fat, so you need to try to prevent this as part of your Cat Health Care regimen. Feed your cat small amounts a few times during the day, and try to feed it at the same times every day. Also, try to ensure that your cat gets some exercise. Play with your cat and provide your cat with balls and other toys that it can bat around and chase after in order to get exercise. If your cat does happen to get overweight, you should cut out all extra treats and try to get the cat moving around a bit more. However, you don't want to cause the cat to lose weight too quickly or it could be at risk for a liver disease.

Cleaning your cat's teeth is another part of the cat's care. You want to get a special toothbrush from the dentist, as well as toothpaste made for cats. You don't ever want to use toothpaste made for people, as this can make your cat sick. It might be easier to get started brushing your cat's teeth if you start by dabbing a bit of toothpaste on the cat's lips so the cat can get used to the taste.

As a part of Cat Health Care you should also try to keep your cat clean. If your cat's hair should happen to get dirty or tangled, a little bit of talcum powder brushed through the hair should help to take care of this problem.

Trevor Kassulke owns and operates http://www.catcareguidance.com

Cat Health Care Tips

What to Get Your Cat For the Holidays

2008-11-28T11:44:00.001-08:00

By Roman Brown

The Holidays are fast approaching and just as the pitter patter of young hearts jumps with expectation and delight, the shopping list grows for all our loved ones. For those with beloved felines at home, we have taken a few moments to go over some basic ideas for gifts for your cat.

Just like toy trains, race tracks, and stuffed animals for children, never underestimate the classics when it comes to picking out gifts for your purrrrfect companion. If you have never had one, or haven't bought one in a long time, consider a scratching post. If you have several cats, one of the multi-tiered scratching posts is another great idea. If that's not in the budget, you can also give the old one a good rug shampooing and be sure to sprinkle with some cat nip for true delight.

The common squeaky toy or jingly ball are two more great toys to surprise your cat with over the holidays. Anyone who has had them in the past can vouch that they don't necessarily stand up to the test of time, but that is why they are also usually sold in multi-packs and for a low price. If you care to step it up a notch, there are a handful of items out there designed to make your life easier and give your feline friend a high tech boost. Consider a self-cleaning cat litter box.

There are battery operated mice you can buy for your cat for the holidays. Since it is the holidays, though, why not help you cat get into the spirit. There are holiday inspired and styled hats and stockings you can buy for the cat-sure to look great for family photos or just for fun. No holiday would be complete with all those great treats, though. Don't leave your cat out of the fun, but don't put them in harm's way either, by giving them unhealthy people food. Splurge a little and buy your cat some extra treats for the holidays. From hard and soft pieces, if you're not sure what to get your cat, look online or visit a local pet store. Your cat's veterinarian may also have some good suggestions on what treats or toys are best for you cat this holiday season, based on the cat's age, normal diet, and any special health considerations.

The holidays are meant to be shared among loved ones, and that includes the four-legged members of our families. If at all possible, take them with you on your visits or have someone who will take care of your pet while you are gone for the holidays.

Make sure to visit the spoiled pet for all your cat training needs this holiday season!

Cat Worm Symptoms - Your "I'm Not an Idiot" Guide to Recognizing the Symptoms of Cat Worms

2008-11-28T11:43:00.002-08:00

By Kate Rieger

Read this guide and your cat will thank you for recognizing cat worm symptoms before these parasites do her long term harm. There are several types of parasitic worms that can infest your cat like: lungworms, hookworms, roundworms, tapeworms and cat heartworm. There's plenty of synthetic parasiticides on the market, but you can opt for a natural approach to treating cat worms.

Some cat worm symptoms can be pretty darn obvious, like when kitty vomits an enormous load of half digested breakfast along with something that looks like short spaghetti. Chances are you're looking at roundworms.

Other times, the problems caused by cat worms aren't as obvious. Perhaps your cat is wheezing - you may think she has asthma or a cold. Every year veterinarians are presented with thousands of cats showing all the signs of a respiratory illness. In fact, a microscopic exam of your cat's feces may indicate the presence of lungworms in her respiratory tract. The presence of lungworms will cause her to exhibit symptoms similar to asthma, but the proper remedy is much different than the treatment for asthma.

If you just adopted a kitten or an adult cat, its a pretty sure bet she came pre-loaded with cat worms. If you haven't made it to the vet for a final diagnosis, monitor her stools in the litter box. A black, tarry or even bloody stool is a sure sign of a hookworm infection. Take her in to your vet for a reliable diagnosis.

Cats that have an advanced case of roundworms may exhibit cat worm symptoms including serious diarrhea, frequent vomiting or both. Blood may be present in the the diarrhea and vomit. The poor creature is trying to expel these bloodsuckers naturally. Unfortunately, the persistent diarrhea dehydrates her. When she vomits she ends up swallowing some of the regurgitated roundworms.

All cat worms are parasites; they suck blood. Cats and kittens are candidates for anemia. The most tragic health threat is an impacted intestinal tract - your kitten's intestines packed with a mass of roundworms. Young cats are particularly susceptible to an intestinal perforation when this mass moves about.

Tapeworms aren't as devastating to your cat's health as some of the other parasites. You can recognize these cat worm symptoms too. Take a look at her anal area. She's probably showing it to you 2 or 3 times a day during your petting sessions. Seize the moment. Do you see small, white, rice-like segments? Well, its not rice - its a segment of tapeworm.

A cat infected by a cat heartworm may be gagging, coughing, have difficult breathing or vomiting. Or she may show no signs of cat worms - she may suddenly drop dead.

So here's your "I'm Not An Idiot Guide To Recognizing To Recognizing Cat Worm Symptoms"

Your cat is exhibiting one or more of these symptoms...

Coughing, wheezing or problems breathing;
Vomiting a batch of white, short spaghetti-like casings;
Gagging;
Frequent bouts of vomiting;
Diarrhea;
Black, tarry stools;
White, rice-like casings sticking around her anal area

Its likely your vet will suggest a topical or oral synthetic treatment for purging cat worms. However, many cat owners are opting for more natural treatments using herbal remedies like Artemisia absinthinium (also called Wormwood). This herb is widely used in homeopathic practices to treat cat parasites. Consider it as a viable option to rid your cat's parasites and free her of debilitating cat worm symptoms.

Kate Rieger has been owned by 15+ cats and is a champion of spay and release for her feral cat neighbors. She is partnered with the Kentucky S.N.I.P clinic and together they provide affordable solutions for pet owners. Never one to be short on opinion, she is on good behavior during her speaking engagements at local organizations where she spreads the word about natural alternatives to helping cats live long lives and teaching owners how to treat cat worm symptoms with natural remedies. Drop by and pick up a free copy of her eBook '111 Things You Don't Know That Could Harm Your Cat' that shows you how to protect your cat from conditions that could injure your cat. Pick up a copy and protect your cat today.

The Bare Bones of Cat Ownership

2008-11-28T11:43:00.001-08:00

By Debbie Foster

Having any family pet is a big responsibility so you must know all the basic steps on how to care for it. So if you are interested in having a cat, you should know more about cat care. Owning a pet cat is not as easy as feeding it every day. Food is not the only thing a pet cat requires to stay healthy and happy. Just like you and me, cats also need some of their basic needs to be taken care of. Caring for cats is more than just the caring part, you need to know what to do and how to do it. As a conscientious cat owner, here are some things to be aware of.

Some people feed their family cats leftover foods or table scraps, but you should understand that those foods are cleaner. A combination of the two provides the right kind of nutritional food for your pet. It can be affordable if you make it part of the monthly household shopping budget.

Next, they need a home. You should make sure the immediate area will be safe and secure for your pet. Much like the way we take care to remove all potentially dangerous and threatening items from the home area when there is a child in the house. Of course, you'll require a good quality litter box for your cat. These can be very inexpensive or more pricey like the self cleaning type. Cats love toys to bring out their playful side, so you'll want a few of those. Then to further show you care, cozy cat beds are nice. Again, these run from very affordable to more expensive like in the temperature regulated heated cat beds.

Exactly like a baby, your cat needs to get regular check-ups with their veterinarian. It's also important to take them to the veterinarian to have them neutered or spayed unless you purposefully plan to breed. Felines require vaccinations from time to time, and the costs of such shots may vary. Cats also need annual check-ups with their vet. Scheduled veterinary visits, as well as emergency visits from sickness or injury can cost a pretty penny, so be prepared and keep emergency funds available. It's better to plan for the worst than to be regretful in the end. Cat care may seem like a piece of cake initially, but it is a full-time obligation to be a fully responsible cat owner. Before you dream of owning a pet, or actually getting one, please make sure you're able to care for it in every sense.

An animal 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 Proper Kitten Diet

2008-11-28T11:42:00.000-08:00

By Christine Pinkston

Kittens need an average of fifteen percent more protein to get the proper muscle development. The proper muscle development is important because that includes their heart.

Kittens also need about twenty percent more fat in their diet. If you are feeding your kitten homemade food (this is advisable) make sure that the fat they are getting is uncooked. Cats can not digest cooked fat and in fact it can cause problems in the future.

Almost all cats are lactose intolerant so keep your cheeses and dairy to a minimum. If you have a recipe that calls for a lot of dairy try using lactose free milk. My cats love lactose free milk. Lactose intolerant means that an enzyme in their stomach is missing so they can not properly break down the sugar (lactose) in regular milk.

Cats are mainly meat eaters but adding some vegetables to their diet is recommended. Just be careful what vegetables you add. Stay away from garlic, onions, and cherry tomatoes. Foods from those food groups are poison to cats. Another one to avoid is bell peppers.

Cats, like out in the wild, need raw food without preservatives to get the proper nutrition. For the most part if you feed your cat homemade food, use raw everything. The exception is potatoes and eggs. Both of those need to be slightly cooked.

The average store bought food does not contain the proper nutrition that cats need. When my cat was about three years old he got crystals in his urinary track (this can be deadly if not caught in time). My vet told me that the food I was feeding him was the cause. Now this confused me because I was using an expensive name brand food. My vet told me that most of the store bought food was the equivalent, nutrition wise, of Twinkies.

The more I looked into the ingredients of store bought cat food the more appalled I became, to the point that I did not even want to touch my cats food to feed it to him.

In order to give your kitten a diet that will allow him to get the nutrition he needs to grow strong and healthy a combination of homemade kitten food and safe store bought food is recommended.

Cat food secrets will give you a safe, easy way to combine homemade food and commercial food, show you what commercial food is good for your cat, and help you to help your cat live his life to the fullest potential. Don't let your cat be a victim to bad commercial cat food learn more about a kitten's diet.

Cat Grooming Tips - What Other People Are Not Telling You on How to Bath a Cat

2008-11-16T12:54:00.001-08:00

By Paul Kramer

Yes, cats can be bathed, and cat bathers can survive the process. Most felines do not need to be bathed very often, but occasionally a bath is necessary. If someone in your household has allergies, regular rinsing or bathing can remove allergens from the fur.

If your cat is exposed to a toxic substance such as a garden chemical or household cleaner, a bath will remove the poisons that she would otherwise ingest by licking. If she gets fleas, you can remove them by bathing as part of a comprehensive flea control program.

Here is how to give your cat a bath and live to tell about it. First, brush your cat thoroughly, particularly if she has a long coat. You must remove all tangles and mats, because once they get wet, they will be almost impossible to comb out, and is left after the bath, they will hold moisture, creating a perfect place for bacteria and yeast to reproduce.

For your own protection, you may want to trim your cat's claws, too. Choose a mild shampoo formulated for cats, and use it sparingly and according to directions. Some pet shampoos need to be diluted, and even those that do not are easier to apply and to rinse out if diluted with an equal part of water.

You can find all sorts of special cat shampoos, although for most purposes you do not need anything fancy. No rinse shampoos can be handy because you do not need to wet or rinse your cat with water.

If you do not want to get her wet at all, a dry cat shampoo can be used to clean mildly oily skin. If your cat gets a petroleum product on her fur, use a mild dish detergent, veterinarians recommend Dawn to remove oil.

Rescuers often use Dawn to clean up victims of oil spills. The detergent also will remove skin oils, though, so use a moisturizing conditioner on your cat afterward. Do not use flea shampoos or medicated shampoos without consulting your vet, especially if your cat has any kind of medical condition.

Want Tips On Cat Grooming?

All You Have To Do Is Click http://callpetmeds.com/Understanding_Your_Cat.html Now!

How the Experts Do Cat Grooming As a Health Check and Prevent Hairballs From Happening

2008-11-16T12:53:00.000-08:00

By Paul Kramer

Grooming sessions are the perfect time to check your cat for potential health problems. After all, the sooner you catch a problem, the better chance that your veterinarian has to fix it.

So, while grooming, look for the following symptoms:

- lumps, sores, or tender areas anywhere on her body or changes in her fur or skin

- excess discharge from her eyes, signs of squinting, or other abnormal eye appearance.

- excess discharge from her nose

- excess discharge or sore or red areas in her ears

- cuts or other abnormalities on her feet

- redness or sores on her gums, loose teeth, lumps in the mouth or drooling

Proper grooming is important throughout your cat's life but especially so in her senior years. As your cat ages, stiffening joints and waning energy may make it difficult for your old friend to groom herself.

The infamous hairball is formed when your cat ingests hair while licking herself. Her stomach cannot digest the hairs, and they gloom together into a ball. As owners know all too well, most cats cough up their hairballs.

Sometimes, though, hairballs cause vomiting, constipation, and loss of appetite, and in severe cases they must be surgically removed. You can protect your cat from these problems by brushing her frequently, especially when she is shedding, and by feeding food designed to prevent hairballs. If the problem is frequent or severe, talk to your vet.

When humidity is low, especially in winter with the heat on in the house, you can get quite a charge out of your cat, a charge of static electricity. To reduce the chock, try rubbing a small amount of no rinse conditioner for cats into her fur. You also might consider adding moisture to your home with a humidifier.

Want Tips On Cat Grooming?

All You Have To Do Is Click http://callpetmeds.com/Cat_Grooming_For_Senior_Cats_-_This_Is_The_Way_The_Experts_Easily_Perform_It.html Now!

Cat Training Classes - Get Helpful Advice

2008-11-16T12:52:00.000-08:00

By Nonye Adeyemo

There are more programs and classes now than ever before, geared towards cat training. These classes are very helpful and both the cats and the owners benefit from them.

Cats respond very well to praise, so when a cat make even a subtle improvement, reward your cat with praise enthusiastically so that the cat knows to continue making progress. Always make sure to give positive reenforcement for good behavior. When a cat knows that if it does something wrong, it will get punished in some way, be it not getting a treat that it loves or not getting to do what it would usually get to do under normal circumstances, it will learn not to things that you don't like. You have to do things in order and you should not rush things. Cats work at their own pace not yours. It is very important to give you cat time to learn new skills or patterns of behavior.

Things like treats are always helpful. When your cat does whatever it is that you want it to do, not only should you reward her with food but you should also smile and show that you are very happy about the cat's progress to that the cat will want to do more to impress you. A cat can do just about anything you want it to do if you take your time and reward good behavior.

Tip # 1: In order to house train your cat, you have to always be consistent with your cat.

Tip# 2: You must always stay calm. A cat can sense when you are really in control.

The Truth About Cat Food For Urinary Tract Health

2008-11-14T11:28:00.004-08:00

By Rebecca Shelly

You've probably heard it a hundred times in the past when you would go to the veterinarian, dry food is best, it controlled weight and helped keep the cats teeth clean. Dry food may help with cleaner teeth, but free feeding of dry food is leading to obesity and other diseases. It is not just the quantity of dry food, it is the quality.

We are feeding our cats food which they really were not meant to eat. Dry food can cause dehydration and adding a small amount of water to the dry food can help with hydration levels but the best cat food for urinary tract health are diets high in moisture and are not fish based, but meat based. If your cat loves his dry food which is only about 10 percent moisture, try mixing a moist canned or packet food and gradually increase the moist food until he eating a mostly a canned food diet.

Cats need a natural raw diet of meat, bones and organs (originally this was a mouse or small rodents). Cats crave meat so adding raw meat or changing to a raw food diet would be an ideal cat food for urinary tract health. A healthy diet for the owner of the cat would include grains and vegetables but cats are carnivores and are not meant to eat vegetables, cereal and grain fillers. They are meant to eat meat, bone, organs, along with the fiber, minerals and vitamins, all of which is in the perfect food of a mouse. This is impractical for a domesticated house cat, so commercial products were made.

Now it is thought that the pH balance of urine is the cause of urinary problems, so pet food manufacturers wanting to sell their products have come up with all sorts of additives to prevent urinary problems. The manufacturers of urinary tract health cat food are putting urine acidifiers in the food which can cause metabolic acidosis, resulting in impaired kidney function and a loss of potassium which leads to mineral imbalance. This type of prevention only leads to problems of another sort.

The best urinary tract health cat food would be a diet with raw foods or canned, because although a cat eating only dry food does drink a bit more water than a cat on a canned or raw diet it is still only half of the water compared to a cat eating canned foods. When a cat is only eating dry food the urine becomes very concentrated which can contribute to feline urinary tract associated illnesses.

Cat food for urinary tract health includes raw or canned food, and adding natural immune builders, to support a healthy immune function and an overall balance to keep our pets healthy for years to come.

Rebecca Shelly has been studying alternative cat health applications for a many years. She is a regular contributor to natural pet health sites, discussing some of the most promising natural treatments for pet health on the market today. For more information on urinary tract health cat food visit http://www.pet-natural-cures.com to learn more about UTI medications and why we choose this natural remedy above all others.

How to Play With Your New Cat

2008-11-14T11:28:00.003-08:00

By Dr. R.J. Peters

Those calendars of kittens playing with balls of yarn are cute, but don't let that give you the impression that cats should be playing with yarn... at least not by themselves.

A string-based cat toy should not be used by kitty without your supervision, as many cats will chew on string (or yarn) and swallow it, causing severe digestive tract damage. If it causes a stricture of the intestine, it could mean a painful death.

Cats and kittens love to chase stringy things, though, and it is generally safe to use them for play time. Just put those toys away when you are not present. After all, when cats play in the wild, their "toys" aren't always present, so don't feel you're hurting their feelings by taking them away. It's OK to leave the little fake mice out, or a ball, however.

They also tend to enjoy furry things, such as fluffy bedroom slippers, so if your cat is attacking yours, try to find a fluffy toy for her instead, unless you don't mind your slippers getting a little chewed up.

One of the purposes of cat play time in nature is to teach the young ones some living and survival skills, such as hunting and how to dispatch the prey once caught. It also may teach them how to get along with other cats and how to exert their dominance when needed. These skills may not be learned correctly if you bring home a kitten and use your own playtime methods instead.

For example, in the wild, catching a small rodent requires attention to the tiniest movements and sounds. So you might try tantalizing your little lion with a ball tied to some string, which you gently jiggle behind a chair or table leg, and let kitty attack it when she's ready to pounce. Jerk it away as she approaches, since a mouse would attempt to run away at the last moment, and kitty will learn the art of pursuit while developing quick reflexes.

To help her gain confidence as her skills improve, be sure to let her catch it often enough to encourage her.

You also might try lifting the ball into the air quickly to give her a chance to leap into the air, as if going for a bird. This type of play also helps a cat develop strong muscles and coordination.

Cats also enjoy reaching into things to grasp and remove something. This may come from a hunting instinct also, such as reaching for a small animal in a burrow. This skill can be honed by providing a toy that uses the principle of reaching and grasping, such as a box with holes in it just large enough for the cat's paw and arm, but too small to crawl into. Put fun items into the box for kitty to discover and recover.

Climbing is a natural activity for cats, too, so instead of yelling at the cat for climbing the drapes, it's a good idea to provide something you approve of, such as a cat tree or a tall scratching post. Maybe they will leave the drapes alone...

Lastly, a word of caution: Never use your hands for play. Always and only use a toy. Your hand should represent affection and comfort, so only use your hands for gentle handling and petting. If you allow your cat to play-attack your hands, or feet, you are only helping your cat to become a biter. This is never acceptable, and could lead to some serious injury when the cat becomes a large adult.

If your kitten or cat does attack your hand during play, don't yell or jerk back. This actually excites the hunting instinct, since you're acting like prey at that moment. Instead, freeze. Glare at the cat, and speak sharply, "No!" or, "Ouch!" When he lets go and looks at you quizzically, just ignore him and calmly do something else (such as leaving the room to get a bandaid!). Give him at least 5 minutes to also calm down before you begin a new play session.

For more information about solving cat behavior problems, visit Dr. Peters' web site: http://www.theproblemcat.com/faq.html

New Born Kitten Care

2008-11-14T11:28:00.001-08:00

By Debra Atkins

Every so often you may find it necessary to take the place of the mother cat to care for the kitten. This could be due to several different scenarios. First off, the mother cat, for what ever reason may die. This could possibly leave several kittens motherless. Sometimes the mother cat will abandon a newborn for several different reasons. She could be sick herself and unable to attend to the kittens. She could have given birth of too many kitties or the abandoned kitten may be sick and the mother cat also referred to as the queen, will not take care of it. Or worst, someone dumped the kittens and left them to die. Sad but it does happen.

It is very important for the new born kittens to be warm and dry. A chilled kitten will die very quickly. Holding the kitten next to you will give it some warmth. You can use a heating pad on low, or a heat lamp if you use caution. Make sure the kitten has plenty of room to crawl away from the heat source, being it will overheat as well. A cardboard box with old towels will work fine. Do not try to feed a chilled kitten, this is very dangerous. A newborns normal temperature should be between 95°F and 99°F before trying to feed it. To avoid metabolic shock the kittens temperature should not drop below 94°F.

Take a few minutes after the kitten is warm to look at it and check for several different signs of sickness. Are the eyes clear and alert or do they have pus in them or mattered together. Does the ears look okay? Is the kitten active and moving around? If the kitten does not look or act alright, chances are it needs a vet. If this is not your kitten and is just a stray you found, and you do not want to take responsibility, please take a few minutes and call your local shelter. Someone will pick up the abandoned kittens and see that they are either taken care of or put out of their misery.

If this is not your kitten and you do plan to take responsibility, good for you. Next you need to hydrate the kitten. Some pedialyte, the same as given to humans will hydrate the kitten and keep it from going into shock. From the pet stores you will need K.M.R. or the equivalent. Do not use cow or any other type milk. Using an eye-dropper, syringe or a bottle you will need to feed the newborn kitten as many as 12 meals around the clock. Just like a human baby the kitten will want to eat during the night. Instructions on the box of K.M.R. will be very helpful for feeding by the weight of the kitten.

The new born kitten can not voluntarily eliminate feces or urine until around the age of three weeks. They will need to be stimulated by external means. The mother cat will take care of this if she is there, but if not the caregiver will have to help. Very simply, with a warm cloth or cotton ball gently rub to stimulate the urogenital reflex after every feeding and swab the perineal area. Also remember to wipe over the entire kitten to promote and ensure cleanliness. After about three weeks you can start the process of moving the kitten to a solid diet from a dish. Using the K.M.R. and making a milkshake or mush mixture out of the canned or dry kitten food will be a good way to start. Just be sure to use the kitten food and not the adult cat food. You may have to get a little creative in tempting the kitten to start eating. Perhaps with the kitten right at the dish of food, you dip a little on your finger and let the kitten eat it off your finger. As the kitten learns to eat, you can reduce the amount of K.M.R. Kittens will generally eat four or five smaller meals per day. Try not to leave the canned kitten food out in the dish. The canned food will spoil fast. Keep unused portions covered in the refrigerator and can be warmed in the microwave for a few seconds before feeding. Be sure and check that the food is not too hot.

A guide for kitten care care can be found at most of the local veterinarians and pet shops. With the proper kitten care and a lot of patience you will soon have your new friend in very good health.

A Knowledgeable Caregiver Leads to a Happy Healthy Cat!

2008-11-14T11:27:00.000-08:00

By Audrey Frederick

What is a healthy cat? Knowing the difference between a healthy cat, one that is "off its feed" or one that is really ill can sometimes be the difference between life and death for a cat.

A healthy cat is bright-eyed, alert and active, wants to play and annoy you, enjoys its food and purrs up a storm. The coat of a healthy cat will be soft and shiny, with little shedding, except in the springtime. The body of a healthy cat will be fairly trim, no sores or rashes, teeth and gums in good condition, no fleas or other parasites, breath should be odor free (except after eating fish) and it should not be coughing, sneezing or have a runny nose.

The inner workings of a healthy cat should follow a normal pattern of regular bowel movements and urination.

A cat "off its feed" will generally exhibit all the healthy cat characteristics except it will not want to eat for a day. I have 3 cats and each one has gone through a day, where food is of little interest (maybe they found a mouse) and they were acting perfectly fine other wise. However, later in the evening or the following day their appetites were back and then some.

A cat that is ill may have many symptoms or just one or two. Some things to look for are lack of appetite that lasts for more than a day. Has your cat's behavior changed? Sudden inactivity may be a sign you cat is not feeling well. Constipation or diarrhea (blood in the stool) that lasts a day or two is also a sign that all is not well internally. Should you see blood in the cat's stool call your vet at once?

The inability to urinate could be a sign of blockage (cats do get kidney stones) or other bladder disorders again if you see any of these signs, including blood in the urine, call your vet as soon as possible. If your cat suddenly starts urinating outside the litter box, it may have a bladder problem. Some cats think the litter box is causing the pain.

Vomiting can be a sign of fur balls a common cat problem, however if your cat vomits more than once a week, call your vet.

A sudden increase in drinking water or an increase in your cat's appetite is also signal that something is amiss. Should your cat show any of these signs call your vet at once as it maybe a sign of something very serious.

A healthy cat will have eyes that are shiny and clear. Cats have what is known as a "third eye." It should not be seen. If you see a covering coming over the eye it is usually a sign that there is a health problem or the cat is suffering from some stress.

A healthy cat should have a soft velvety nose that is moist, but not runny. If your cat's mouth is not pink and clean looking and its teeth are getting a build up of tartar, have your vet examine your cat as soon as possible.

There will be times when you can treat an ailing cat at home, but the best advice I can give, is call your vet and get his/her advice first and then follow through with home treatment.

I tried to treat my cat, Smokey, when he has a small lesion on his leg with a "petroleum based ointment" not realizing that while he was licking it off, he was ingesting the product and as a result got very sick. A quick trip to an "emergency clinic" (night visit) and many dollars later I learned "petroleum based products" and cats tummies, do not get along very well.

So call your vet when you have the slightest doubt about the correct procedure to follow and even if you do know, it is a good idea to verify it with the vet.

One of the most important things you can do for your kitten is to make certain that it receives its kitten shots. These shots are known as the "3 in 1" vaccinations and are given to a kitten at approximately 4, 8,and 12 weeks along with a rabies shot. The purpose is to protect your kitten from some very serious viruses that can be deadly. My cats get yearly booster shots along with their rabies shot. It is my understanding that some vets suggest the booster shots every two years with some states allowing cats to get a 3-year rabies shot. Talk to your vet and follow their advice. The important thing here is that your cats has these shots.

Bacteria, viruses and bacteria-like organisms cause the majority of cat diseases. Your cat can pick up these things simply by inhaling an organism coming through the wind, coming in contact with an infected cat, eating infected food or water or a bite. Realizing this, keeping a cat inside sounds like the best advice I can give. However, my cats, because of the size of our property and the fact our guys stay within the confines of our fence, they are indoor/outdoor cats.

While I have given you an idea of what a healthy cat should be, never hesitate to call or see your vet, should you have the slightest worry regarding your cat's health.

If this article has been of benefit, please visit my web site and blog at http://www.cats-and-dogs-on-the-web.com

First Time Cat Or Kitten Owner - What to Include on Your Shopping List Before You Bring Them Home

2008-11-11T09:00:00.001-08:00

By O'Della Wilson

So, you decided to increase your family with the addition of a kitten or cat? Maybe even two. Congratulations!

It can become a daunting, expensive process of preparation bringing home any new addition to your family. Forgetting one crucial item, can be a potential disaster! There are several things you will need to have on hand before you bring that fluffy ball of fur home.

Here's a check list I have put together that is sure to be invaluable on that first shopping trip:

Food:

I would suggest a small bag or box of two flavors/brands. Like people, animals need some choices for their palette. Personally, I mix 1/2 can of moist food with the dry food. One cup per cat, twice daily. Leftovers should be discarded daily.

Dishes:

I suggest separate food and water dishes, as opposed to the combo dish. This will keep the water from splashing into the food and will also make it less likely for bladder and urinary tract infections. Metal dishes are preferable to plastic, as the plastic holds odor, oils and again is more likely to be a breeding ground for bacteria. The metal dishes will keep the water cooler too. Dishes, especially water, should be washed daily. Unscented dish soap works great.

Treats:

A small bag of catnip and some moist vitamin treats are sure to please.

Litter & Litter Pan:

Depending on your preferences, there are a variety of products that work efficiently in today's market. Some cats will do the choosing in this area. I suggest you buy a tub of the clumping litter and a bag of clay litter. Try the clumping litter first. This has less dust, is easier to maintain, and omits less odor. Litter pans should be scooped [preferably twice] daily and thoroughly cleaned each week.

*Tip - I keep my cats' litter pans inside an 'under the bed' storage tub, placing the lid underneath. This will greatly reduce the amount of litter (kicked, shook, and hurled) finding its way to your floor or carpeting. Please people, do not put the tub under your bed. Remember, that's the type of container to use - to house the litter pan. The pan should be kept at an easily accessible location, preferably out of immediate sight of humans and in a low traffic area. Cats like privacy with the privy too.

Litter Pan Deodorizer:

Make sure the product is safe for your pets. I have heard of people using carpet sprinkles to deodorize their cat's litter pans. This can be very hazardous to your kitten and adult cat. Read the product warning label carefully to ensure it is safe to use with pets. If you are not looking for any aroma remedy, I would recommend using plain baking soda, two or three tablespoons per pan, twice a week.

Box of (quart/gallon size) zipper bags: Use for discards of litter box.

Scratching Post:

I have always had cats - my entire life and never to this date have any of them used an actual scratch post. They prefer your furniture, drapes, and woodwork -- or the following homemade remedy consisting of a box of self-adhesive (10- 1 sq ft) carpet tiles, one brick & cardboard (or wood) box. This can be a very cost effective measure and give your kitten/cat their own personal space. This gives them a sleeping area in addition to a scratch area and 'play' box.

Instructions for brick, box, and carpet tiles:

Make sure the box you use is sturdy and 12 to 15 inches high, 12 inches deep, and 18 to 24 inches long. Attach carpet tiles to exposed outside wall area on either end and inside for flooring. Cover the top of the box with tiles as well. Whether you choose to 'tile' the back of the box will depend on where you plan to place the box. It will make no sense to tile the back if you plan on placing it against a wall.

Cut one carpet tile, to size of brick, for the bottom side. This will prevent damage to flooring for those times you must remove it from the box. Your brick should be porous.

TOYS:

I recommend two or three toys for your kitten/cat to play with initially. One fabric toy that can be tossed easily and a ball no smaller than a golf ball. Refrain from toys that squeak or have bells inside, as these have the potential to choke your kitten/cat. Other items cats love are paper bags, scrunchie hair ties, and string. Always use care with the selection of any toys for your kitten/cat. Ensure string is long enough, thick enough and durable with one end tied to a solid object, avoiding the potential for choking. Scrunchies should be of medium to large in size - never use small or child size.

ROLL DOUBLE-SIDED TAPE:

Cut six inch strips to place on corners of furniture, woodwork, and counter tops. This is the most effective way I have found, to keep kittens/cats off your counter tops and tables. It also will keep them from shredding your furniture with their claws. Cats hate anything that is sticky on their paws. Velcro works wonders too, for areas that require more training, as it holds up longer. Citrus scented [stick on] air fresheners work great too.

Collar and Leash:

Refrain from buying collars with dangling items attached, especially bells. Cats find them annoying and offensive. The more lightweight the collar, the more likely your cat will adjust to this contraption around their neck.

A leash is a necessary evil as well. The sooner your kitten is exposed to leash walking, the easier it will be to train them to use one. The cat owner only realizes in hindsight how invaluable this training can be in emergency situations.

And last, but not least, refrain from buying all those cute toys, clothes, and bedding for your new pet until you learn their individual personalities. Once your new cat or kitten has settled in you can introduce new items, one or two at a time. Too many new and unfamiliar scents will make for a difficult transition to your kitty's new home.

This article written and provided by: O'Della Wilson AKA Alhavakia, published author and freelance writer.

http://www.alhavakia.com

http://odellawilson.wordpress.com

How to Remove Cat Urine From Carpet - Do This But Not That

2008-11-11T08:59:00.000-08:00

By Amy Yang

If you have both a cat and a carpet, then eventually you will need to learn how to remove cat urine from carpet. Urine has to be one of the hardest things to clean out, especially in combination with carpet.

You have probably realized that just blotting it up does not in any way remove the distinctive urine odor. Because it's carpet, blotting it up might take out the urine in the top part of the carpet, but the urine that has been soaked into the carpet pad is still there.

The only effective method on how to remove cat urine from carpet is fighting bacteria with enzymes. It is the bacteria from the cat urine that causes the distinctive odor. Simple blotting will not remove that bacteria. Only enzymes can break it down and completely eliminate the problem.

One word of caution. When cleaning up the litter box or when cleaning small messes, do NOT use anything with bleach! Remember science class in school?

Remember what two chemicals they said NEVER to mix?

Ammonia and bleach!

You should NEVER mix these two together because the combination will produce very noxious fumes that are fatal, as in deathly fatal!

Bleach would be the cleaning agent you're thinking of using and the ammonia comes from your cat urine! A big no-no!

Now back to the how to remove cat urine from carpet with enzymes topic. Not all odor eliminators are created equal unfortunately. Some of the products on the market work to a certain extent but not completely. Some you have to use within a certain amount of days after you open it.

So make sure you read user reviews to make sure it works.

I have been looking into different kinds of odor removers out on the market.

I have posted the one that most people have had consistent success with on my website. You can find it by clicking on remove cat urine.

Cat Holiday Safety - 4 Ways to Keep Your Cat Safe During the Holidays

2008-11-10T12:43:00.004-08:00

By Debbie Davis

If you own a cat, safety is a continuous and daily commitment that you make as its owner. During the holidays as our schedule becomes busier, strangers (to your cat) come into your home, and as we are required to multi-task more, some safety precautions may fall by the wayside. Don't let that happen to you or your cat. Here are 4 ways to keep your cat safe, especially during the holidays.

Avoid Holiday Plants

Mistletoe and Poinsettias are 2 favorite holiday plants that many people bring into their homes for the holidays. If you have a cat, keep both these plants out of your home. They are both toxic-the Mistletoe more than the Poinsettias, but don't take a chance with either of them.

Clear Away Small Toys

If you are having small children as visitors during the holidays that will bring small toys such as beads, marbles, small game board pieces, make sure your cat is confined to another room or the cage in the same room so it remains safe but feels included in the gathering. Warn children not to feed the cat anything unless you give them permission. After the children have gone, make sure all small pieces that could possibly cause choking have been cleared away before allowing your get to run free again.

Keep Away from People Food

Holiday parties contain a lot of food that is great for people but toxic for cats. Remember your cat can climb to unbelievable heights so make sure that foods that are toxic to cats such as chocolate, tomatoes, green potatoes, garlic, grapes and raisins are contained in pet proof containers. To avoid any possibility of your cat ingesting these foods from the table at a party, or having an unknowing guest feed these foods to your cat, put your cat in his cage with a favorite toy in a room well away from the party, and ask guests who know you have a cat not to go into the room.

Contain Electrical Cords

An increased number of electrical cords are often used during the holidays to light up decorations. Many times they are seen as a new toy to your cat who may be tempted to swat at (and knock over) decorations, chew, or pull-none of which are good. Make sure that you tape cords together to avoid tangling or hanging, or enclose the cords in heavy plastic tubing that can be purchased from most hardware stores and reused each year.

An excellent resource for a HEPA air purifier to remove cat odor, hair, and dander from your home in time for the holidays is offered by PurerAir - the Pet Machine Purifier at http://purerair.com/austin_air_pet_machine.html

How Much Do Persians Cost?

2008-11-10T12:43:00.003-08:00

By Dennis Cheesman

When you first consider getting a Persian cat, one of the first things you will want to know is how much you should expect to pay for your Persian. The truth is that there is no pat answer to this question, as the cost of the Persian depends on many variables.

First note that if you find a Persian priced under $200 you probably are not getting a purebred. At the very least, you will be getting a purebred that has no pedigree - and this does happen. The typical cost of a purebred Persian kitten is about $500, but again, this isn't written in stone because many other variables come into play.

When it comes to price, you should know that prices in one area may not be the same as prices in a different area - even if the kittens are comparable as far as bloodlines and such go. As with any type of commodity, the price goes up when there is a greater demand, and the price goes down when there is less of a demand. Typically, the prices charged on the East coast of the United States are higher than those prices charged in the central part of the country or on the West coast.

The time of the year matters a great deal as well. Cats are generally in heat in the early spring and into the summer. This is when the most Persian kittens will be available - Spring, Summer, and even into the fall. However if a litter is born in the winter, you can expect the cost of those kittens to be higher - because there aren't as many kittens available.

If the Persian kitten's parents are registered, this raises the price of the kittens, which will also be registered - or pedigreed. If the parents have won awards, this again raises the price of the kittens, because they are proven to be show quality animals based on their parent's achievements. Show quality Persians always cost more than pet quality Persians.

The color of the kitten and the rarity of that color or pattern can also drive the price up. At the same time, however, if one color is currently more popular than others, which is shown by what the judges seem to favor at the cat shows, the cost of kittens of that color or pattern go up. The health guarantee that the breeder offers will also bring the price up. Good breeders have their kittens checked by a veterinarian, and this also drives the cost of the kittens up.

Overall, with all of these factors in play, one should expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $1200 for a purebred Persian kitten. Older cats typically sell for less, and the Persians that you find at Persian rescue centers and Humane Societies will of course cost even less.

You may also visit our Pets site! Where we have more Pet Articles and related resources!

Cat Pneumonia - An Owner's Guide to Pneumonia in Cats

2008-11-10T12:43:00.001-08:00

By D Swain

Pneumonia in cats is a serious condition. It occurs when there is inflammation in the lungs. The condition can quickly become life-threatening as it progresses. As the disease advances, your cat will have more and more trouble breathing. It can effectively be treated if caught early enough.

Causes

The inflammation in the lungs is a condition caused by bacteria. However, this is usually the result of a viral infection that affects your cat's lower respiratory tract. Common viruses that can result in cat pneumonia include feline parainfluenza virus and calicivirus.

Symptoms

Pneumonia in cats is easily noticeable as your feline will appear extremely ill. He will stop eating and drinking which can lead to dehydration, a potentially serious condition. As the disease advances, your cat will have breathing difficulty. Some cats also develop a fever.

Treatment

As mentioned earlier, cat pneumonia is caused by bacteria. Therefore, treatment involves the use of antibiotics. It's important not to discontinue this medication too soon or the bacteria may become resistant. As you already know, some cats with this condition experience trouble breathing. These cats will need to be provided with supplemental oxygen.

When your cat goes back home with you from the vet, there are a few things you can do to make him more comfortable. Make sure he has a warm, dry place to rest. If you can, you should also be a humidifier in the room. You will also need to prevent your cat from exercising too hard, or he may experience more trouble breathing.

Pneumonia in cats is a serious condition, but it can be treated effectively. There are many other cat illnesses that can affect your beloved pet. It's best to learn the causes, symptoms, and treatments of some of these conditions so you can protect your cat. So, stop by cat-illnesses.com today to learn about some of these conditions like feline arthritis.

Watch Your Choice of Kitty Litter

2008-11-09T14:09:00.000-08:00

By Karen Mckee

What started all this was I took Misty to the Vet for an eye issue on Sept. 14,2008. She had scratched her eyeball and the vet gave me an eye ointment to treat her. She has been fine until about two weeks ago. Misty has been "snoring" at night. Then she started wheezing last week during the day. As her care giver, I used her visit to the vet as a starting point to back-track what had changed in her life.

The first thing I did was wash her "blanky" that was in the cat carrier that accompanied to the vet. My first step was to put the cat carrier and her "blanky" in the closet where she could not access it. Three days passed but the wheezing was increasing. So, I went back and thought about what else I had changed in her life. I bought the same food, but I had run by a local convenience store and picked up cat litter. AWWWW! The cat litter.

For the last 7 years I have used the same brand of cat litter. Three weeks ago I picked up a different brand- I admit only because it was convenient for ME, and guess what! The cat litter was the only change in her life that I HAD MADE ON HER BEHALF. Man do I feel bad!

My husband and I started researching cat allergies on the internet at 3:00 in the morning. WHO KNEW- cats can have allergies just like us!. The first advice was to take a wash cloth soaked in hot water and wash her down from head to toe. Meanwhile, Steve-my husband- was conducting his own experiment in the bathroom. He had taken the cat litter I bought and stuck his hand in it. It came out covered in DUST. Running into the living room, he said "look at this!" I thought OKAY, if Misty is in the litter box and stirring up the "dust" by covering her business, she's not only breathing this dust in, but her paws are covered in it and when she grooms herself; she's licking her paws and swallowing the dust as well.

The solution was not only to change her cat litter to a NON DUST cat litter, but I took a wash cloth, soaked in warm water and washed her down from head to toe. I figured if my husband stuck his hand in the bag of cat litter and it came out covered in dust; then, when Misty washed herself not only was she breathing in the dust, she was also licking it to clean her paws to clean herself.

Man- do I feel like a fool, going for cheap, and convenient on my cat's behalf I may have harmed her. Good news is she's fine now and on the road to recovery.

I guess the point of this article is what's best and convenient for us is not always best for our cat family members who have no voice, and can't tell us what's bothering them. We have to be their guardians and care givers.

Karen Mckee-proud pet owner of Misty

How to Tell If Your Cat is Sick

2008-11-08T01:42:00.001-08:00

By John Sommer

It is very important for you to be close to your cat. Know what their normal everyday habits are. Pay attention to how much they eat and how often.

It is important to know these things, because if you don't know them you will not be able to realize if something is wrong and they are acting differently.

If you have a cat that is normally overactive and even somewhat hyper and then one day they just lie around and do nothing there is a good chance that there is something bothering your pet.

Do You Know The Symptoms?

Knowing the symptoms of certain feline illness is also a deciding factor of getting your cat help in time or losing them to a possible disease.

For example knowing that weight loss, frequent vomiting, and increased thirst and urination are all symptoms of feline diabetes would enable you to get them the help they need before it is too late.

Your cat can not tell you that something is wrong. They can't walk up to you and say "I am just not feeling right today." It is your responsibility to take care of them and to know when they are not feeling like they should be.

Pay attention to your cat's liter box, if you ever see that your cat is having problems relieving themselves, than you know there is something wrong.

Checking The Litter Box

If you see that your cat is in the litter box more or less often these are also signs of possible illness. When it is painful for your cat to use his box he will become irritated and his personality will change for the worse. All of these are subtle little changes and it takes a watchful eye to pick up on them.

A cat's coat, nose or eyes are also telling symptoms of problems. A cat's fur is just a reflection of what is going on, on the inside. Their fur should be healthy looking and thick. If you notice that your cat is losing a lot of hair at once or suddenly has bald spots then you need to take them to the VET immediately as these can be signs of almost every problem a cat can have.

If your cat has more eye or nose draining than normal there is something wrong also. If the cat looks like he has been crying have the vet check out his sinus. It is just a mild problem as opposed to kidney failure which also shows through the leaking eyes and runny nose symptoms.

When brushing your cat make a special point out of feeling along the cat's limbs. Any new bumps or lumps could indicate cancer. If there are changes like these then it is better to let your vet determine how serious they are and what risk it inflicts on your cat.

It is very important that you are not too embarrassed to talk to your vet. Never feel like you are over reacting, your vet is there to help you and your pet. They understand that it is better to be safe than sorry. If you live by that motto, than your cat should live a long healthy life.

No matter how old your cat is they are still like newborn babies. If you had any reason at all to think your new baby was sick you wouldn't hesitate to take it to the doctor at every little cough or sneeze.

By thinking like this you create the difference between whether a sick cat recovers or dies. Taking the time to connect with your cat, and paying attention to it will not only build a strong unbreakable bond between the two of you, it could also save a life.

John Sommer is a successful consultant and publisher of The VIP Pet Insurance Guide. He provides valuable reviews of all the major insurance companies and VPI Insurance in general. You can research everything in your pajamas on his website.

Attacking Ankles

2008-11-08T01:41:00.000-08:00

By Doris J Canova

Attacking ankles and sudden biting are most often associated with your cat's aggression but there may be a reasonable explanation. Cats have a strong natural desire to hunt and they are taught by their mother how to do it. Now here is where the problem starts. Inside the house, there isn't much to satisfy this desire to hunt. Mice, fleas, bugs of all sorts, spiders and the like are all that the cat has to hunt, and other attractive prey are scarce indoors.

They have to make do with what they have so that may mean that they will hide out and when you least expect it, with attacking ankles and other moving body parts of their human counter parts. In some cases you can provide an appropriate toy to help him with the problem of wanting to hunt something. Remember that cats have this urge to hunt instilled in their being. So when you walk by he may see you as a target, and well attacking ankles is just fun to him.

Toys that work in a lot of cases are furry balls on a string, wand, or attached to a small fishing rod for efficient "casting" and interesting motion as it is reeled in. There are other things you could try like a wind up mouse or a battery operated toy that moves on its own. If your children have a radio controlled car and your cat is not afraid of it that may work to satisfy the urge to hunt. Some people just tie a toy on a string and drag it thru the house so that the cat will attack the object and making it a better target in stead of attacking ankles to bite at.

These activities will also give the cat a lot of exercise which is a good release of pent up energy, and will be especially beneficial if you just happen to have a kitten. Most cats will outgrow this behavior by the time they are a couple of years old. They are much better if given other objects to attack and can get enough exercise. If your cat doesn't respond to any of these suggestions, it might be a good idea to consult with your vet and see if they may have an idea as to why this is still going on and what can be done to stop the cat from attacking ankles.

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

We plan to post articles that are informative and helpful to other cat lovers. Having been "owned" by cats for years, we know they can be demanding, but also be very entertaining and fun.

Best House Cat Care Visit our website for products your cat may enjoy http://www.besthousecatcare.com

Training - Cat and Kitten Training

2008-11-07T11:40:00.006-08:00

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

2008-11-07T11:40:00.005-08:00

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!

Puppies Long Island. Visit Worldwide Puppies and Kittens in Bellmore, New York, or call them at 516-679-7880 for more information. Their website is http://www.PuppiesLongIsland.com. No matter what your lifestyle, Worldwide Puppies and Kittens will ensure that you will find the perfect puppy or kitten with the perfect size and temperament to match it.

Cat Or Kitten - Either is a Good Choice!

2008-11-07T11:40:00.003-08:00

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!

2008-11-07T11:40:00.001-08:00

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

2008-11-07T11:38:00.000-08:00

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.

Home Remedies For Cat's UTI - Effective Treatment Or Hoax?

2008-11-06T13:08:00.003-08:00

By Susy Lim

Boy, did I learn a valuable lesson. I used to try inventing home remedies to give to my cat in order to cure his recurrent urinary tract infections. It didn't take me long to realize that a quick home remedy for cat's UTI is simply too good to be true. Home remedies aren't clinically proven to have any effect and by using them, you will only be making your cat a guinea pig for home science experiments. The safety and effectiveness of home remedies are questionable at best.

Rather than trying to concoct your own home treatment to relieve cat's UTI, look for a high quality homeopathic remedy. Homeopathic remedies are known to have dramatic results when used in combination with dietary and lifestyle changes. Furthermore, they are guaranteed to be 100% safe.

Homeopathic remedies for cat's UTI are available over the counter and for an affordable price. There is no need to try making a quick home remedy for cat's UTI when you can get something that is really going to work and for an equally affordable price without having to go to the vet. Homeopathic remedies for cat's UTI are widely available online or from holistic veterinarians.

Home treatment to relieve cat's UTI in the form of a homeopathic remedy is clinically proven to work. There have been numerous studies documenting its effectiveness and safety. There are companies that manufacture homeopathic remedies with the highest standards and practices. They are rigorously tested in laboratories so you are guaranteed a high quality product. You can't get the same results quality assurance by making a product at home.

Unlike a quick home remedy for cat's UTI, homeopathic remedies will do more than just suppress the symptoms. They will get to the root of the problem so the infections stop coming back. Homeopathic remedies for cat's UTI soothe and support the bladder, maintain bladder health, maintain a healthy flow of urine, and support immune system functioning. To put it simply, homeopathic remedies promote permanent recovery and overall health.

Believe me, if you want to see lasting results without putting your cat's health at risk, the use of a high quality homeopathic remedy is the way to go. A quick home remedy for cat's UTI may seem like a cheap, easy way to get rid of symptoms but unless you are an expert herbalist or scientist, your best bet is to avoid trying to make home remedies. There are natural treatments out there that are affordable and proven to work. Try homeopathy so you can help your cat get rid of recurrent urinary tract infections once and for all.

Susy Lim is a pet health enthusiast who has been researching natural remedies to promote pets health. To learn more about her researches, visit her website at http://www.pet-uti-treatments.com

How to Look After Your Cat

2008-11-06T13:08:00.001-08:00

By Peter Mac

Domestic cats know how to take care of themselves, but once you decide to keep the creature as a pet, you ought to be familiar with the know-how of how to look after your cat. If you get a domestic cat when it is still a kitten, chances are that the pet gets accustomed to its environment and gets ruled by other pets and this can mean fewer fights in the house, for you. Luckily for you, kittens often sold to keepers, are already litter trained. This leaves you with the chore of tutoring it to find the right area when nature calls. You may be followed wherever you go, as kitties follow their owners all the time, and you might find the cat climbing up the kitchen counter. With food resting on the kitchen worktop, this could be a unfortunate habit, and to deter the domestic cat from doing this, keep some water handy which you may need to sprinkle on its face.

To keep its claws sharp and trim, the cat needs a scratching post, which you need to keep. If you find that they are scratch elsewhere, use the strategy of splashing their face with water. Other than the scratch post, you must also cut and trim their nails so that they do not grow too much, as this can injure a family member or even damage your furniture. Pressing down their claws on the ground can do this, so that the claws are extended which makes cutting easy. You must study the claws as a matter of routine so that they get used to it as they get older. Kitties usually do not shed hair as much as older domestic cats, but keep combing part of their normal grooming habit, so that they are also used to it, be it long or short hair.

Don't just give your domestic cat anything to eat because their food must be of superb quality which can be found in the pet store. If you are unsure about the make of food that has the best quality ingredients, ask you vet for some recommendations. They will also want a clean bowl of water also so they don't get dehydrated. Aside from feeding the kitty, he or she should be brought to the veterinary surgeon for injections and although they ordinarily get a few while they are young they will have to get a regular one yearly as they get bigger. It is a great decision to keep the domestic cat vaccination record handy in case your veterinary surgeon needs it. If you have a big cat, give them room to adjust to the new surroundings on their own. If your pets quarrel, don't worry or get in between them because this is natural but if things are really bad, then you will have to split them by holding both in some other rooms.

You also need to properly guide and train an older cat, so that it shows disciplined behavior. You can always teach them good behavior with sprinkling them with water and this is why water is so important while schooling a cat. Domestic cats should be confined indoors as research reveals that this can help them live longer, since they have less chance of getting involved in traffic accidents or even contracting a viral transmission from other animals. This is the reason why stray cats, living out-of-doors have a lifespan of only a few years. To take care of our domestic cat does not require a great amount of time or effort, and there are several aspects to it, which can be learnt from Internet research, which would permit you and your pet domestic cat to live happily for a long time.

How to Look After Your Cat!

7 Natural Ways to Get Rid of Urinary Tract Infections

2008-11-06T13:07:00.002-08:00

By Mark Lunardi

You might disagree with me but hear me out on this. Conventional treatment methods for cat urinary infection only treat the symptoms and not the cause. Anyone with a cat that suffers from recurrent infections knows that it's the truth. Urinary problems can't be resolved by medication alone. Lifestyle changes and home treatments need to be used and followed on a regular basis in order for you to see improvement and correct the imbalance that causes the infections in the first place. Here are 7 ways to safely treat and prevent cat urinary tract infection at home.

1. Giving your cat tap water can lead to cat urinary problems. Tap water is contaminated with chemicals like chlorine so many cats avoid drinking it. This in turn leads to a thickening of urine and a hindered ability to empty the bladder. Give your cat filtered water instead.

2. Feed your cat home cooked food. The harmful chemical additives, preservatives, and coloring in commercial cat food can lead to a heightened risk of cat urinary infection.

3. You need to make sure that your cat consumes a sufficient amount of fluids in order to flush out the bacteria that cause urinary tract

infection. Since it¹s not possible to force your cat to drink water, try soaking food in water or broth before feeding him.

4. In order to relieve the pain associated with cat urinary problems, give your cat cantharis pellets. Cantharis pellets are a 100% safe,

homeopathic remedy that is useful for pain relief and helpful for cats that are straining to urinate.

5. To control a cat urinary infection, pure cranberry juice can be helpful. Look for 100% cranberry juice, not the mainstream cranberry juice

that contains sugar and other additives. Cranberry juice helps because it acidifies urine and flushes out bacteria.

6. Give your cat vitamin C in order to strengthen the lining of the bladder. Vitamin C is a natural anti-inflammatory that can be given in

doses of 250mg to 500g twice a day. Do keep in mind however that vitamin C can cause diarrhea. Figure out what the correct dosage is for your cat by trial and error.

7. Homeopathic remedies that are formulated specifically to treat cat urinary problems can be highly effective. Look for a formula that can help your cat maintain a healthy bladder, a healthy flow of urine, and a strong immune system.

Put this to the test right away. Most cats respond well to these gentle, natural treatments. There is no need to give your cat strong medication every time he gets a urinary tract infection. In fact, medication just treats the symptoms. Cat urinary infection will just keep recurring if you don't treat the underlying cause of the problem. These simple changes in diet and lifestyle may be just what your cat needs in order to get rid of urinary tract infection once and for all and achieve permanent recovery.

Mark Lunardi is a pet health enthusiast who has been researching natural remedies to promote pets health. To learn more about his researches, visit his website at http://www.pet-uti-treatments.com/ .

Why Does a Cat Purr?

2008-11-06T13:07:00.001-08:00

By Lamar Dean

The answer seems obvious enough. A purring cat is a contented cat. This surely must be true. But it is not. Repeated observation has revealed that cats in great pain, injured, in labor and even dying often purr loud and long. These can hardly be called contented cats. It is true, of course, that contented cats do also purr, but contentment is by no means the sole condition for purring. A more precise explanation, which fits all cases, is that purring signals a friendly social mood, and it can be given as a signal to, say, a vet from an injured cat indicating the need for friendship, or as a signal to an owner, saying thank you for friendship given.

Purring first occurs when kittens are only a week old and its primary use is when they are being suckled by their mother. It acts then as a signal to her that all is well and that the milk supply is successfully reaching its destination. She can lie there, listening to the grateful purrs, and know without looking up that nothing has gone amiss. She in turn purrs to her kittens as they feed, telling them that she too is in a relaxed, co-operative mood. The use of purring among adult cats (and between adult cats and humans) is almost certainly secondary and is derived from this primal parent-offspring context.

An important distinction between small cats, like our domestic species, and the big cats, like lions and tigers, is that the latter cannot purr properly. The tiger will greet you with a friendly 'one-way purr'...a sort of juddering splutter...but it cannot produce the two-way purr of the domestic cat, which makes its whirring noise not only with each outward breath (like a tiger) but also with each inward breath. The exhalation/inhalation rythm of feline purring can be performed with the mouth firmly shut and may be continued for hours on end. In this respect small cats are one up on their giant relatives, but big cats have another feature which compensates for it. They can roar, which is something small cats can never do.

Lamar Deane offers free tips and information How to Choose The Right Pet For You

Cat Furniture - A New Product

2008-11-06T13:06:00.000-08:00

By Joseph Starr

I moved into the house where I currently live almost 50 years ago and planted a 7-foot Pin Oak. Over the years it has grown and is now very, very, very tall and since it's located on top of a hill it is a bird-magnet. Birds come in mega-droves to nestle into its branches. Being a city boy, I thought they did that so they could aim their poop better onto my neighbor's cars, but an outdoorsman told be that birds like heights so they can see all around them. Whether they are being territorial or simply keeping track of possible predators in the area, he wasn't sure.

Cats are the same way. They like to get on top of things. Lacking furniture to climb onto and survey their domain, many cats snuggle onto a window sill and spend hours there. So there is justification for seriously considering buying cat furniture so they can be happy and contented. And look at the human furniture you probably own. What did you spend on that sofa you love to couch-potato on? How about the recliner? Does it have a built in massager, too? You don't have a strong argument for not spending about $300 for furniture on that love of your life, your cat. And, would you rather the cat climb on your furniture or on his/her furniture?

I searched the net for appropriate furniture to buy and came across a few items that looked promising and one that looked outstanding. Since cats like altitude, let's consider a cat climber or cat tree. My number one choice would be the Catvantage product. See it at catvantage.net. The product has won two editor choice awards in 2007, from Pet Product News International, and Cat Fancy. In 2008 it won 2nd place for best-in-show at the Global Pet Expo. It's a pole from floor to ceiling - kinda like a pole lamp - with steps for the cat to climb up to a big-enough-for-a-cat perch at the top. (For you Greenies out there, the pole is made out of recycled polyvinychloride, and most of the other parts are from recycled materials also.) I really like the clean, sharp, modern, design. It's not intrusive and will fit seamlessly into your existing habitat.

In fairness take a look at some of the competition. On the internet look up the Jungle Club House and draw your own conclusion. Notice especially the design, the height, and the price. At the Sitting Pretty website check out the CozyCat Furniture. They offer a pretty elaborate Tree Mansion for $1895. The same website has lower cost cat furniture, but for my money they look pretty ugly from a design standpoint. At Kittykornercatfurniture you can see a cat climber which is similar to the Catvantage product. I've found that the products that are lower in price than Catvantage typically don't give you the up-to-the ceiling perch for your cat and the designs are blah.

There are many climbers and trees to look at. So take your time. But please buy your pet some furniture of his/her very own that s/he will enjoy for many hours.

Joseph Starr writes on a variety of articles to keep his brain from fogging over. For more stuff about cats see his blog at http://joescattalk.blogspot.com/

Your Cat's Health and Well Being

2008-11-05T14:42:00.003-08:00

By Rebeca Rambal

If you haven't had the pleasure of owning a pet cat before, you may not know that you can run into some cat health problems. Some can be prevented easily, while others begin genetically.

One of the most common problems with your cat's health and well being is the terrible hairball. Cats keep themselves clean by cleaning their fur with their tongues. Loose hair is removed and swallowed. Sometimes, instead of passing through the cat's digestive tract, the hair forms into a ball in the cat's stomach. Cats with hairballs develop a hacking cough, gradually expelling the hairball. Hairball prevention is easy: groom your cat daily to help remove the loose hair. You can also get cat food that helps prevent hairballs. If you look at your local stores, you may also find cat treats that can help with this problem.

Urinary tract infections are another feline health problem. This infection happens more frequently in un-neutered male cats, though it is seen occasionally in females as well. If your cat has suddenly developed an aversion to his litter box, it could be due to a urinary tract infection. Another clue is that your cat's urine will smell unusually strong if he has an infection. A trip to the veterinarian is the cure. He will also recommend cat foods that may help prevent the infection from coming back.

Cats are prone to several viruses as well that can be very dangerous to their health and well being: Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP), Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) and Feline Leukemia Virus (FLV) are the most common.

FIP is a cousin to the Corona virus, and is a very serious condition as there is no known treatment. The problem lies in the test. Cats that test positive for FIP may not have it, since Corona virus gives the same result on the test. A vaccine for FIP does exist, but many veterinarians do not believe it is very effective. Fortunately, this disease is not as simple to contract as some of the others.

FIV, also known as cat AIDS, isn't necessarily fatal. Some pet owners are afraid that they can catch HIV from an FIV-positive cat, but it is not possible.

FLV is easily preventable through vaccination if the cat has not been exposed to the virus yet. While FLV is not always immediately fatal, once this disease has been contracted, the cat usually does not live for long. If you have a pet with FLV, do not bring other cats into your household. It is contagious.

Many cats also become a host for worms. Hookworms, tapeworms and roundworms are the most common parasites that infect pet cats. Sometimes, they can also get heart worms. Symptoms that may indicate worms is weight loss, with the inability to gain it back; flea infestation; or white specks in the stool that looks like rice. If you notice any of these signs, take your cat to the vet for a test. Worms are easily gotten rid of with a few doses of worm medication. If left untreated, the cat can waste away and die.

If your cat likes to play outdoors, examine him frequently for ticks. If you find one on your cat and he has been moving more slowly than usual or acting lethargic or as if he is in pain, he may need to be tested for Lyme Disease. Your veterinarian can take care of this test and the treatment. Lyme Disease is given to both people and animals by ticks.

Your cat's health and well being is very important if you want to have many happy years with him or her. Caring for your cat properly is easy with a few regular trips to the vet.

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

The Truth About Conventional Treatments For Cat Urinary Infections

2008-11-05T14:42:00.001-08:00

By Laura Ramirez

It never fails. Mainstream veterinarians are quick to prescribe antibiotics for cat urinary infection but the infections just keep coming back. Antibiotics may get rid of the immediate symptoms of urinary tract infection in your cat but beyond that are they effective? Many pet owners are turning to safer, natural solutions and it's easy to understand why.

I don't doubt the fact that cat urinary problems must first and foremost be diagnosed by a veterinarian. If you notice any changes in your cat's behavior, such as if he is drinking more water than usual, he seems to be in pain when urinating, or he is urinating more frequently, go to a veterinarian immediately to rule out any serious causes.

A tumor, bladder stones, struvite crystals, or serious disease can cause a cat urinary infection. Your veterinarian may have to perform a surgical procedure in order to cure the problem. Otherwise, a special diet may be necessary in order to dissolve the crystals or stones.

Antibiotics may be prescribed in order to get rid of your cat's infection. Not only are antibiotics difficult to administer, they also have dangerous side effects. Not to mention the high doses required to treat cat urinary problems may actually aggravate the infection.

Another reason why pet owners should start straying away from antibiotics for treatment of cat urinary infection is that their overuse has led to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria. Over time bacteria are going to evolve to the point that we won't even be able to get rid of it anymore if we keep using antibiotics anytime our cats have an infection!

The best way to take care of cat urinary problems before they spiral out of control is with natural treatment. A healthy diet and lifestyle and avoiding exposure to toxins and chemicals such as pesticides and herbicides can go a long way in helping your cat reach an optimum state of health so urinary tract infections don't become a problem in the first place. Along with these lifestyle changes, administering a homeopathic remedy can be very helpful in maintaining optimum bladder functioning and overall good health. Homeopathic remedies come in granule form so they are easy to give your cat.

Now it's time to start putting these tips to use. Conventional treatment with antibiotics may be a quick fix for cat urinary infection but they are only a temporary solution. Furthermore, the dangerous side effects of conventional treatment can actually put your cat's health at risk. If you want your cat to be healthy and infection free without putting his health in danger, make lifestyle changes and give him a homeopathic remedy. By doing so, you will help your cat recover permanently so he can stay healthy for years to come.

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

Cat Urinary Blockage - How to Spot, Treat and Prevent It

2008-11-05T14:41:00.005-08:00

By Laura Ramirez

Boy, did I learn a valuable lesson. I once took my cat to the vet because he got very ill. I didn't notice that something was wrong until he simply wasn't acting like his jolly self anymore. He was near-death by the time we arrived to the pet hospital but boy am I glad I made it in time. That experience taught me the importance of early diagnosis. It is essential to spot the early signs of cat urinary blockage before the problem progresses to the point of no return.

The symptoms of a blockage in cat are a change in the frequency of urination, painful urination, no urination at all, or blood in the urine, to name a few. Your cat may groom his genitals and cry while doing it to express how much pain he is in. Your cat may avoid urinating in the litter box because he associates the litter box with painful urination.

Cat urinary blockage may also cause incontinence in your cat because the bladder gets full and urine leaks around the blockage. If your cat stops urinating altogether, it is important to take your cat to the doctor immediately. If your cat doesn't urinate for even 3 to 4 days, it can be fatal.

If your cat has foul-smelling urine, it could also be a sign of infection. To check if there are symptoms of a blockage in cat such as blood in the urine, have your cat urinate over a light-colored surface so it is easier to spot the traces of blood.

Even if you only recognize mild symptoms of a cat urinary blockage, you should take your cat to the veterinarian for diagnosis. If there is a more serious problem that is the underlying cause, you can get your cat the necessary treatment. However, most cat urinary tract blockages result from an unhealthy diet and lifestyle. In order to address these issues, some important lifestyle changes must be made. Regular homeopathic treatment can also be very helpful in restoring balance to your cat's bladder and overall health.

In order to treat the symptoms of a blockage in cat and prevent recurrent infections, make some changes to your cat's diet and lifestyle. Make sure your cat eats only raw, unprocessed foods. Avoid commercial cat food, especially dry food, which is full of artificial chemicals. Give your cat plenty of fresh, clean water to drink and make sure he always has access to a place where he can empty his bladder. Holding it in too long can lead to blockage.

Now that you are armed with this information, come up with an effective, holistic treatment plan for cat urinary blockage. By doing so you can address the underlying issues that caused the infection and keep them from ever becoming a problem again. Relying on quick fixes like drugs will only suppress the symptoms temporarily. Make lifestyle change and the use of a homeopathic remedy the center of your treatment plan so you can help your cat achieve permanent recovery

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

A Quick Home Remedy For a Cat's UTI - Some Facts You Must Know

2008-11-05T14:41:00.003-08:00

By Laura Ramirez

If you're like me, you've probably attempted to put together some herbs or other home remedies to alleviate the symptoms of your cat's UTI. A quick home remedy for cat's UTI may seem like a dream come true but unfortunately homemade remedies are simply not as effective as homeopathic formulas prepared by experts.

It sounds tempting to be able to concoct a home treatment to relieve cat's UTI. It's cheap and it seems safe. However, you have to keep in mind that many herbs have side effects just as dangerous as those of prescription drugs. If you want to avoid putting your cat's health at risk, you shouldn't try to prepare herbal remedies on your own.

Homeopathic remedies are rigorously tested in scientific laboratories in order to ensure safety and effectiveness. The same certainly cannot be said for a quick home remedy for cat's UTI. Unless you are an expert herbalist or homeopath, I wouldn't recommend attempting to make your own home remedy. Not only could it be dangerous, it could just end up aggravating your cat's infection.

A homeopathic remedy is the closest thing to a home treatment to relieve cat's UTI because it is affordable, widely available, and safe. A homeopathic remedy can be used regularly without any risk of side effects. It is convenient because it is widely available for purchase over-the-counter. In fact, you can easily order homeopathic remedies for cat's UTI online. There is no need to visit a veterinarian to get it.

Most importantly, homeopathic remedies are far more effective than a quick home remedy for cat's UTI. The latter's effectiveness is questionable at best. If you want to use a remedy that is safe, natural, and proven to deliver dramatic results, your best bet is to purchase a tried and tested homeopathic remedy. Homeopathic remedies are also easy to administer because they come in a granular form that is very palatable for cats.

Your next step? Take this information and shop around for an effective homeopathic remedy for UTI in cats. While it may be tempting to try to cut costs and go natural by concocting a quick home remedy for cat's UTI, remember that homemade treatments are not proven to be effective like prepared homeopathic formulas are. So instead of wasting time and money trying to invent your own homemade remedy, leave it up to the experts and use a homeopathic remedy that is guaranteed to help your cat recover quickly and permanently.

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

A Guide to Feline Urinary Tract Disease and Its Treatment

2008-11-05T14:41:00.001-08:00

By Laura Ramirez

Are you plain fed up with taking your cat to the veterinarian for feline lower urinary tract disease? Although it is a condition that affects a relatively small percentage of cats, it is a common reason for cat visits to the vet and can be serious if not treated in time. Prevention is the best medicine in most cases but there are ways you can treat an infection in its early stages at home before it spirals out of control.

The symptoms of feline lower urinary tract disorder are a change in the frequency of urination, painful urination, blood in the urine, incontinence, and more. The condition can be very painful so it's important that you treat your cat to relieve him of the symptoms.

Conventional treatment of feline lower urinary tract disease aims at suppressing the immediate symptoms of the infection. The problem with this line of thought is that the infection can return because the medicine doesn't get to the root of the problem. For this reason and the fact that conventional medicine has serious side effects, many pet owners are turning to alternative treatment methods.

Alternative treatment of feline lower urinary tract disorder aims at getting rid of infections by treating the problem holistically. A homeopathic remedy may be administered in order to alleviate the symptoms of the infection and strengthen the body's natural healing system. Dietary and lifestyle changes may be made in order to address the lifestyle factors that could be causing the infection.

A diet rich in raw, unprocessed foods is an important factor in treating and preventing feline lower urinary tract disease. Many commercial cat foods are full of chemical ingredients that can aggravate the symptoms of cat UTI and lead to an accumulation of toxins in the urinary tract. Furthermore, in order to detoxify properly, your cat needs to have plenty of fresh, clean water to drink.

To maintain a healthy bladder, a healthy flow of urine, and a strong immune system that can fight off infection, it is important to give your cat an all natural, homeopathic remedy. Homeopathic remedies are gentle yet highly effective and they don't have any of the dangerous side effects associated with conventional medications. They are 100% safe to use for extended periods of time and for that reason they make an excellent addition to any preventive treatment plan.

Make no mistake about it. Lifestyle changes and homeopathic remedies are the way to go in treating urinary tract infections in cats. Conventional medicine only suppresses the symptoms of the infection without getting to the root of the underlying cause. If you want to get rid of feline urinary lower tract disease and keep it from coming back, use natural treatment methods. They are safe, inexpensive, and provide long term results.

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

7 Ways to Know Your Cat is Having Feline Urinary Problems

2008-11-05T14:40:00.006-08:00

By Laura Ramirez

Tell me, does this sound like your cat? Is he frequently urinating, grooming his genitals, and urinating in inappropriate places? These are signs of feline urinary problems and you need to take your cat to the veterinarian immediately for diagnosis and treatment. Here are 7 ways to know if your cat is having urinary problems so you can seek treatment before it is too late.

1. Is your cat whinier than usual? If your cat is crying often, this could be a sign that he is in pain. Often feline urinary tract infections are difficult to detect because cats have a high tolerance to pain but if your cat is whining more than usual and you notice other signs of infection, take your cat to the veterinarian.

2. The first sign of feline urinary problems is a change in normal urination patterns. If your cat is urinating more or less than usual, it could be a sign of a problem.

3. Has your cat stopped urinating altogether? If so, get to the vet immediately because a complete blockage can be fatal if not treated in time.

4. If your cat is constantly dripping urine, it could be a sign of a urinary tract infection. Feline urinary tract infections cause frequent urination and incontinence.

5. If there is blood in your cat's urine, he is most like suffering from feline urinary problems and needs to be taken to the vet immediately.

6. If your cat is grooming his genitals more frequently than usual, it could be a sign of urinary tract infection, especially if it is accompanied by crying.

7. If your cat is urinating outside of his litter box in inappropriate places, feline urinary tract infections are most likely the cause. Your cat is probably urinating outside of his litter box because he associates the pain accompanying urination with the litter box.

Do yourself and your cat a favor by keeping these signs of feline urinary problems in mind. Quick diagnosis and treatment are important in order to keep your cat out of harm's way. Better yet, preventive treatment through the use of homeopathic remedies and implementation of lifestyle change are the most beneficial ways to keep urinary tract infections at bay. If you spot the infections early enough, you can take care of them at home and won't ever even have to go to a vet. After all, prevention is the best medicine and homeopathic treatment can maintain your cat's bladder health as well as combat infection. The ultimate goal is permanent recovery and it can be achieved most effectively with lifestyle change and homeopathic treatment.

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

Pet Collars - There Are Many Styles

2008-11-05T14:40:00.005-08:00

By Jennifer Akre

You may have checked out many different pet collars for your beloved furry friend. You noticed that there are many different styles to choose from and the materials vary widely as well. These collars have many uses for your pet, including their identity, their safety, and sometimes, just for style.

Depending on the type of animal you have, will determine the size and the material for the one your pet needs. They come in various sizes, and the materials ranging from plastic, leather, to even chain link. You can be decorative and try to give your pet some style or use the basic plain ones that just offer usefulness and no added flair.

Cat Collars

You cat will need one to display their tags; you want to ensure that if fluffy gets lost, your address is displayed and he can be returned to you safely. There really is no need for a leash to be attached to the one for your cat, as I have not seen many cats that are willing to be walked.

You would want to find a thinner option for your kitty, the material is non important as there is no need for restraint. Most people buy pet collars for their cats, just for the he decorative appeal. The cat may not like wearing a pink one with a princess crown on it, but without thumbs, he is helpless and can not stop you from displaying that he is your little princess.

Dog Collars

The pet collars for dogs have different uses than those of the feline. Dogs will need walked, restrained, and sometimes trained with them. Small to medium size dogs that remain mostly in the house can have cloth, or plastic ones without worries of them snapping them when on a walk. You want to make sure the dogs tags are attached so if he is out or gets lost, he can be returned to you safely.

Larger dogs will need to have thicker ones, made of leather or chains. You want to be bale to restrain the dog if he becomes overly excited during a walk. If you run in to another dog and the one your pet has is too weak, you may risk injury to yours or another's dog.

There are choker pet collars for your dog as well, these are used in training. You may have an overly excitable dog that needs to be restrained more than once or twice during a walk. The choker ones are designed to add pressure on the dog as he strains and pulls against you, eventually training him to be more obedient and calm during an encounter with another person or animal.

The ones for large dogs can be very stylish as well, you can go for the brute look and have spikes on a leather one, or turn your pit bull in to a pretty princess, just like the smaller dogs and even the cats. Whatever pet collars you decide to purchase that fit your needs, always attach the tags on to it, to ensure your pet is always returned to you in the event of them getting lost.

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 room, bedroom, or even your deck or patio, there are many tips you can use to make those spots both functional and beautiful. Today, she offers advice on how to create a fabulous pet area by using modern cat furniture and other pet supplies to keep your fuzz face happy.

Cat Scratching Posts - They Provide Your Pet With a Nice Place to Scratch

2008-11-05T14:40:00.003-08:00

By Jennifer Akre

The new furry feline that you brought into your home like to do one thing and that is scratch your furniture as much as you can. So, you need a way to keep him from ruining your furniture, well, turn to cat scratching posts to solve the problem.

Cat scratching posts will provide your cat with a lovely place to do his scratching. The reason is because of this cat furnishing's design as it simply sits on a pedestal and has a post that sticks out into the air. The pedestal that the post sits on will be weighted so the whole unit will not fall over and one will typically be crafted from some type of wood and then covered in a durable fabric like carpeting. There are some options that are even made with sisal rope instead of just carpeting, giving your feline an even better spot paw and play.

And, speaking of places for your cat to play, there are a slew more options than simple cat scratching posts. For instance, maybe your cat loves to run around and jump on things, especially your furniture again. Well, you can give him his own special spot to play by purchasing him a cat tree. It has the same type of shape as a real tree and is crafted out of wood and typically covered in carpeting just like with the scratching posts. Your kitty can jump from limb to limb to have a good time. Or, if you want to give your kitty an even better place to play, you can purchase a kitty gym for him. This selection is like a more extravagant version of a cat tree because in addition to featuring limbs, it also comes with perches, ramps, tunnels, hanging hammocks, and even hanging toys built right into them. If you do not have a lot of room to work with, but want your furry companion to have something nice to play with, you can always get him some toys like those motorizes mice that move across the floor all by themselves or other toys that have catnip.

If you feel like pampering your cat, not only should you look into getting cat scratching posts for him, but other deluxe cat furnishings like a posh place to put his litter box. There are actually selections that will enclose his litter box so he can have some privacy when he does his business. There are also perches you can put on your home's windows so he has a nice place to enjoy the view of the outdoors and even cat fences to keep your cat in your yard if he goes outside. For a nice way to see all these cat items, just turn on your computer and do some online shopping. It is an easy way to check things out and when you do decide on something, you can generally get it at a pretty reasonable price.

In the end, if your cat likes to scratching, provide him with a lovely spot to do just that with cat scratching posts. One would be a nice way to make sure your furniture does not get ruined.

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. Today, she offers advice on how to create a fabulous pet area by using the essential cat supplies and puppy supplies that your little furballs will need.

Cats in Ancient Egypt

2008-11-05T14:40:00.001-08:00

By Claudia Escobar

Cats played an important role in Ancient Egypt. From protectors of their grain, to pets, to deities, cats' influence on Egyptian life was unmistakable. The popularity of Egyptian cats is reflected in the many Ancient Egyptian paintings and artifacts in which they appear.

Indeed, just the mention of cats and Egypt evokes beauty, mystery and supernatural imagery. Surely, cats and Egypt share a long, interesting history. Many cat experts believe that Ancient Egyptians were the first to domesticate cats. At first, it was a practical matter. Cats were brought in to protect granaries and homes from small vermin. Eventually though, Ancient Egyptians - especially the wealthy - started to adopt cats as pets.

Paintings on tombs and other buildings show spotted, slender cats, which are believed to be the first domestic cats. It is believed that these early Egyptian cats were the ancestors of the Egyptian Mau. Even though this breed is not as known as other cat breeds, its popularity is increasing.

Over time, cats in Ancient Egypt became part of the family. Ancient Egyptians held cats in such a high regard that they went into mourning whenever any of the family cats died. They even had them mummified.

Animals in general - and felines in particular - were so revered in Ancient Egypt that they became deities. However, according to many experts, Egyptians did not worship animals per se. Rather, they thought that animals embodied certain divine qualities and used animals to depict such attributes.

Cats were believed to be direct representatives of Bastet, the cat goddess of protection, fertility and children. Bastet, also known as Bast, was depicted as a woman with the head of a cat or just as a desert cat. Priests would keep a cat in the temple in honor of the cat goddess.

The other feline goddesses were Sekhmet and Mafdet. Sekhmet was depicted as a woman with the head of a lioness. She represented destructive power. Mafdet, the cheetah goddess, represented swift justice and judgment. She was also known as the panther goddess.

Egyptian cats surely conjure up images of ancient magic and mystery. If you or your cat loving friends love both cats and Egypt, you will be glad to know that you may find Egyptian-cat inspired artwork, collectibles and statues, both online and off. These make great cat lover gifts.

There are also books about the role cats played in Ancient Egypt and about the feline goddesses mentioned here. These too make great cat gifts.

If you would like to reproduce this article please feel free to do so, provided that you publish the article in its entirety and include this resource box.

Do Cats Need Raw Food?

2008-11-05T14:39:00.000-08:00

By Abe Kline

Do cats need raw meat in their meal? Quite a few times I caught my pet cat stealing a piece of raw chicken meat from the kitchen. I had let the meat stand in a plate to answer a phone call. It seems the cat enjoys this stolen sweetness. Could it be its body is craving for raw food? I decided to find out more.

Eating processed food is a modern habit of the last few decades. Additives such as preservatives, colourings and flavours are present in processed food. Other addictives are synthetic or inorganic vitamin and mineral additives of questionable biological value. If processed food is bad for human beings, then why are we feeding our pet dogs and cats dried pellets and canned food?

Domesticated dogs and cats have been around for thousands of years. They certainly did not live on processed food in all that time.

By nature, dogs and cats eat other animals such as birds, rabbits and squirrels. This means their natural diet consists primarily of animal tissues. This means raw meat, glands, bones and organs such as liver, kidneys, brains etc. They also eat small amounts of vegetables, seeds. Almost no complex carbohydrates are found in this diet. Enzymes found in raw food helps in digestion and absorption of nutrients.

There is a small risk to feeding our family pet raw food. However, when pet owners are careful in handling raw food, healthy dogs and cats are able to deal with germs and parasites.

I found out that currently thousands of cats and dogs around the world are fed raw food. Vets have yet heard of one case of salmonella as a result. Yet the small risk in consuming raw food is nothing compared to the long term risk of chronic diseases process food can cause.

Here is a quick recipe for No Cook Homemade Cat Food:

· I pound raw ground chicken meat or any meat your cat loves (no pork).

· Combination of small amount of cauliflower, broccoli, leafy greens, cabbage, zucchini, beets. (No onion, tomato, eggplant, potato or spinach.)

· Ground the breakfast eggshells into fine powder for calcium.

Mix raw ground meat with one cup water. Add 4Tbsp of eggshell powder. Chop the vegetables finely. Mix the meat and vegetables in an approximate ratio of two to one. Add hot water until it is stew like. Cool it before giving to the cat. Include vitamins last if your cat takes them. Make enough for one day. Refrigerate the extra portion till the next meal. Serve at room temperature.

Want to learn more about the care of cats? I have started a blog about caring for your cats. Please click http://caringforyourcats.blogspot.com

How to Spot, Treat, and Prevent Urinary Tract Infections in Cats

2008-11-04T21:20:00.001-08:00

By Stephen Jones

What if I told you that feline lower urinary tract disease is a silent killer? Many cat owners don't notice the early symptoms of the disease and only take them to the vet for treatment by the time it is too late. In order to keep your kitty safe and maintain cat urinary tract health, you must learn to spot the symptoms of infection early and administer preventive treatments on a regular basis.

Infections of the lower feline urinary tract are not as common as urinary tract infections in dogs. Less than 1% of the cat population is affected by them but 10% of cat visits to the veterinarian have to do with urologic disorders. Tract inflammation in cats is caused by a variety of factors and can be hard to spot since cats are often purring, licking, and snuggling even when in pain.

First of all, knowing your cat's normal behavior is very important in order to be able to tell when he is acting different. Some of the first signs of bladder infection include very little urine, frequent urination, and painful urination. Other common red flags are excessive grooming of the genital area and crying while doing so. Also, you can suspect urinary tract infection in cats when your cat urinates outside of the litter box or you find blood in his urine.

The cause of urinary tract infections can be bacterial, fungal, or viral infection, urethral obstruction, or uroliths aka bladder stones. Conventional treatment aims at suppressing the immediate symptoms by administering antibiotics, catheterization, fluid therapy and surgery in rare cases. These conventional methods are highly effective treatments as a last resort but you should try to avoid them as much as possible because of their dangerous side effects. Prevention is the best medicine so your goal should be to try to maintain cat urinary tract health and treat infections in their early stages with natural remedies.

In order to keep your cat's bladder healthy, make sure that your cat always has access to fresh, clean water. Also feed your cat frequent small meals versus two big meals per day and try to feed him unprocessed foods as much as possible. It is also important to closely observe your cat at all time in order to be able to notice any unusual behavior that may be a sign of cat urinary tract infection. Try to keep your cat from feeling stress by keeping him from being exposed to stressful situations.

If you don't want to risk your cat's health by giving strong antibiotics, try administering a homeopathic remedy. Homeopathic remedies for urinary tract infections in dogs and cats are accessible and affordable. Furthermore, they can be highly beneficial as preventive treatment also. All you have to do is sprinkle it on your cat's tongue everyday to support the healthy flow of pee and maintain cat urinary tract health. Homeopathic remedies aim at holistic treatment thus support immune system functioning and overall health.

Do your cat a favor by making the necessary dietary and lifestyle changes in order to prevent urinary tract infection and maintain a healthy bladder. It is important to think in prevention as a treatment because the infection will recur otherwise. The keys to cat urinary tract health are healthy diet, observation to spot unusual symptoms, and holistic remedies. If you follow these simple steps, your cat will stay infection-free and healthy.

7 Common Signs of Feline Urinary Tract Infection

2008-11-04T21:19:00.006-08:00

By Stephen Jones

Boy, did I learn a valuable lesson. A couple years ago, I rushed my dear, dying cat to the pet hospital due to lower urinary tract disease caused by a blockage of his urethra. I'm not exaggerating when I say that if I waited any longer, he would have died. Thankfully the vet was able to save him although he was in a delicate state for weeks.

In order to prevent this stressful and agonizing experience from happening again, I had to learn to watch closely for the symptoms of feline urinary tract infection so I could treat my cat quickly at home. Better yet, I learned how to prevent feline lower urinary tract infections from happening altogether by making the necessary lifestyle and dietary changes and using homeopathic remedies but it's always safe to know the signs of an infection just in case. There are only very subtle behavioral variations in cats so that makes it extra difficult to spot an infection. Here are 7 of the most common signs you should look out for.

1. If your cat looks like he is in pain when urinating, it could be a sign of cat urinary tract infection. Take your cat to a veterinarian for quick diagnosis if you suspect an infection.

2. Frequent urination can also be a sign of feline urinary tract infection.

3. If your cat stops urinating altogether, you can almost be sure that your cat has UTI. The causes of not urinating could be inflammation of the urinary tract, bladder stones, or urethral obstruction. The most common cause of infection in cats is bladder stones.

4. Excessive grooming of the genitals is linked to the cat urinary tract infection, especially if your cat is crying while grooming. This could signify that he is in pain.

5. Blood in the urine is an almost certain sign of feline urinary tract infection and means your cat is in severe pain. You should take your cat to the vet immediately to prevent stress and further aggravation of the infection.

6. If your cat has stopped urinating in its litter box and urinates in different parts of the house, you can suspect cat urinary tract infection. This is because when urination becomes painful your cat associates it with the litter box and thus tries to avoid it.

7. If your cat is straining to urinate and there are only drops of urine coming out, it may be a sign of feline urinary tract infection. Furthermore, you may notice that your cat is acting extremely lethargic.

If you spot some of the more serious signs of cat urinary tract infection such as blood in the urine, your best bet is to take your cat to the vet immediately and seek conventional treatment. It is important however that once you get home, you start making dietary and lifestyle changes in order to reduce the chance of re-infection such as by feeding your cat fresh, unprocessed foods that are rich in essential minerals like magnesium. If your cat only seems to be in the early stage of an infection, you can try administering a homeopathic remedy at home in order to keep the infection from progressing.

Homeopathic remedies also support overall immune functioning and can be used to complement conventional treatments if you don't feel comfortable using them on their own. It is important to remember that conventional treatments like antibiotics are very strong and can have dangerous side effects. Using a homeopathic remedy promotes overall health and is 100% safe to use.

Make no mistake about it. Preventive and homeopathic treatment promotes overall health so your cat can recover from a feline urinary tract infection without having to resort to strong antibiotics or surgery. Make sure to be aware of any unusual changes in behavior so your cat doesn't have to suffer in silence. With the right combination of dietary change, homeopathic treatment, and close observation, you can spot, treat, and prevent urinary tract infection in your cat and promote long term health.

Feline Nutrition - Cuisine For Your Kitty, A La Carte Choices

2008-11-04T21:19:00.005-08:00

By Rob Metras

When you have a new cat there are several decisions you need to make and among one of the most important is what to feed it. There are so many products on the market, it is difficult to decide on which to choose, and how to feed your new cat.

After all, you want the cat to be healthy and you want to provide the right nutritional food. You need to worry about the right amount of exercise and nutritional needs to promote good growth and health. Remember, a healthy cat is a happy cat!

The right cat food is available in dry, wet and moist and what you choose depends on what you and your cat prefer, and what your budget is. The right cat food leads to optimal health and vitality of the cat throughout its life. One thing you should be aware of though, is that if you do decide on giving your cat dry cat food, then you need to give it to your cat dry and not wet it with anything, since wetting down the dry cat food creates bacteria and makes it go bad. The cats should be provided with good and healthy food to avoid infections. In many cases, a high quality moist cat food is preferred to that of the dry food. The following tips may help you decide which is best for you and your cat.

Dry food - Cat food is made out of plant or animal products and it is intended for the consumption of cats. Dry food usually refers food that is preserved at room temperature comes in bags and is chewy in nature. Dry foods are free from bacteria and can be given to the cats at any time. You don't need to do anything to prepare this type of food. No warming or cooking needed.

Wet food - Cats mostly prefer wet food for their meals. They love food mixed with milk and water. But the preparation of wet food should be done with care as they have they can accumulate bacteria. The left over wet food should be disposed of immediately to avoid indigestion and other problems in the cat.

Moist food - Some people prepare their own moist food for their cats made from the ingredients purchased in the grocery store and health food store. Home made foods are considered good for the health of the cat and these foods should be prepared with care. The leftovers should be disposed immediately and should not be used as scrap for the cat at the next meal. This process causes severe health problems in the cat.

Canned soft - These foods contain seventy five percent water and meet the daily requirement of water supply for the cat. Cats have a special passion toward canned wet foods and the strong smell creates the desire to eat more and more. Purchasing of such canned food for cats, should be done with care. Be sure to look at the expiration date, to avoid health oriented problems.

Chunks in Gravy - This food contains chunky preparation, a mixture of solid food and semi-liquid gravy. Cats love this food because they offer spicy taste and a strong aroma. Generally chunk foods are prepared at home and are done so to promote growth and the health of the cat.

Bottom Line- keep the cat happy by giving what smells and tastes good for the kitty, and maybe put up with that smell in the fridge.

Find out for yourself about your cats dogs and other pets by visiting me at Your New Pets. Subscribe to our feed to get your content delivered directly to you at Give me your Feed. And that's not cat food.

7 Tips on Cat Recreation - Simple Cat Play

2008-11-04T21:19:00.003-08:00

By Rob Metras

Cats love to play and playing with your cat is a great way to bond with it and to learn about its characteristics and its personality. There are a lot of different ways you can play with your cat, but first a word of advice. Should your cat scratch you and hurt you, let him know you disapprove and say something like No and stop playing with him for about an hour or so. When you do this on a consistent basis then the cat will stop hurting you and be more gentle.

Cue with Sound - a great way to show your cat when play time is, is by cueing with a certain sound. Your cat will soon be associating that sound with play time. Choose another sound to let them know when game time is over.

Play the Cat and Mouse Game- This is a really simple game, all you have to do is move your hand under something, it can be the blanket or the sheet, or whatever and let them pounce on the mound your hand makes.

The Brown Paper Bag Game - For some reason, most cats love a brown paper shopping bag on the floor. If he doesn't understand the game just scratch your fingers on the back of the bag when the cat is near the opening of the bag.

Toy on a Pole - Cats really love this toy. Choose a pole or an old fishing pole and attach a ribbon, a string or a small cat toy on the end then move it around and let your cat catch the prize.

The Fake Fight - Once the cat really trusts you and knows that you are just playing you can play fake fights. When the cat is in a hunting mood then start waving your arms around and make fake fighting noises. Just enough to play but not enough to frighten them. In this game you just need to make sure they don't get serious and scratch you or bite you.

Toys - There are all kinds of toys and cat nip toys on the market. The only problem is that most cat owners buy them and then expect the cat to play by themselves. Cats do love to play but they usually want either another cat or a person to play with them. So if you expect a cat toy to entertain them with little or no effort on your part, then the toys will probably be unsuccessful.

String, Yarn- Anything can be a toy and can be played with. It can be a string, a piece of yarn, or just anything that has a bit of movement to it. Remember cats want to hone their hunting skills, so as long as the game has something to do with the chase, your cat will be extremely happy.

Find out for yourself about your cats and other pets by visiting me at Your New Pets. I invite you to subscribe to our RSS feed to get your content delivered directly to you at Get My Feed.

The Advantages of Being a Responsible Cat Owner

2008-11-04T21:19:00.001-08:00

By Paul Kramer

Before acquiring or selling a cat, there a number of practical and legal issues you should consider. Possible the most important is to ensure that he is both registered and fitted with clear identification. If you have pedigreed cat, you should have been given his papers when you acquired him.

These consist of a registration certificate or application for registration completed by the breeder as well as a pedigree showing his family tree. If you have a mixed breed cat, it is still a good idea to register him.

Almost the entire cat registering associations offers registration in the household pet category. Their only condition is that any cat so registered not be used for breeding, a requirement aimed at reducing the number of unwanted kittens.

As well as the major associations, there are a number of independent groups that register mixed breeds. These can be located through ads in cat magazines. In some states in the US, cats are considered feral and, as such, have no rights under the relevant state's laws. Although rarely enforced, you should make inquiries to be certain if your cat's status.

The advantages of having a registration certificate on your cat are many. First, it identifies him as to sex, color, eye color, hair length and age. In the case of the purebred, it registers his breed as well.

If he goes outdoors and is picked up by another person, it will help identify him as your cat. If you have multiple cats and meet with an accident, it will serve to identify your cats and make their placement easier.

In an extreme case, if your cat wreaks havoc in a neighbor's garden, and that neighbor then harms him, the certificate will serve as proof of ownership in the event that you take the neighbor to court for damages.

If your cat ventures outdoors, there is a huge variety of tags available to attach to his collar for identification purposes. The break away collar is recommended for safety, however, if the collar does break away, he will lose his identifications.

Another alternative is to have your veterinarian implant a microchip under his skin. This will identify him to any veterinarian or animal shelter with the appropriate scanning device.

To learn more about the different types of pet meds for your dogs, cats, horse, etc., and how to get discount and cheap pet medications, make sure to visit http://callpetmeds.com/Dog_House_Houses.html 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 Make Sure Your House is a Safe Place For Your Cat to Live In

2008-11-04T21:18:00.005-08:00

By Paul Kramer

It is important to provide a safe and comfortable home for your cat. You should take precautions to reduce the number of accidents that could occur in your home, and you must be sure she has her own haven in which to rest.

It is impossible to ensure that your house is totally safe for your cat. Think of her as a toddler and take the same precautions you would with a child. Keep all medicines in a locked cabinet, and keep all your household cleaning agents safely behind a locked or latched door.

When running water into the bathtub, keep the door closed so that she won't fall in. If fully grown, all that will be hurt will be her dignity. If she is a kitten, she may slip and drown. Always keep the toilet lid closed for the same reasons.

Be especially careful when opening the oven door as the aromas of food baking may attract her to jump in. While cooking on the stove, either keep her out of the kitchen or watch her closely. Again the enticing aromas of food may beckon her to jump onto the stove.

Not only can she suffer burns on her feet from a burner still radiating hear, but her tail trailing across a lit burner can singe her hair. Or her face peering nosily into a pan can singe her whiskers.

Your cat will also be attracted to your washer and dryer as they offer excellent sources of warmth to her. She can be very quick and you may think she is safely sleeping elsewhere, but when you close the door to the dryer, she may have already jumped into it. Always check these appliances to make sure they are cat free before turning them on.

If you have a fireplace, make sure that it is tightly screened or that the screen can be fastened securely with hooks. Cats do not seem to fear fire as they should and she may try to lie down nest to a burning log if not kept out.

Before opening any windows, make sure that the screens are securely fastened. A fall to the pavement can be fatal as cats do not always land on their feet, especially if the tumble is unexpected.

When opening outside doors, or even internal ones if there is a cross breeze, use a doorstop. Many a cat has lost part of her tail by having a door slam shut on it.

To learn more about the different types of Pet Safety for your dogs, cats, horse, etc., and how to get discount and cheap pet medications, make sure to visit http://callpetmeds.com/How_The_Experts_Choose_Cat_Litter_And_Basic_Equipment_For_Their_Cats.html 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 Be a Responsible Cat Owner For an Adopted Cat From a Shelter Or Pet Store

2008-11-04T21:18:00.003-08:00

By Paul Kramer

If you acquire a cat from the shelter, or rescue center, you will be bound by their rules, and most will require that any animal leaving their kennel be neutered or spayed, regardless of age. In the United States, veterinarians are now neutering and spaying kittens as early as eight weeks of age.

However, in Britain, this is not commonly done until cats are six months old. If you buy a cat from a breeder or a pet store, ask about a health guarantee. The ethical person will give you a certain number of days during which you should have the cat examined by your veterinarian. If he is not healthy, you may be able to return him and receive a full refund.

Before a kitten is sold, he should have received at least his first vaccination and instructions should be given as to when others are due. If selling him at a pet price, not for breeding or showing, you do not need papers.

Often, though, papers will be given upon proof from a veterinarian that the cat has been neutered or spayed. At other times, breeders will issue the papers and check the space to indicate the kitten is still to be neutered or spayed.

If you are selling him as a breeder or show cat, then he will command a higher price and you are bound to provide his papers as well. There is no reason why you should not have all documents ready, so a buyer should never accept him unless all relevant papers are available at the time of sale.

Make provisions for your cat in case of your unexpected hospitalization or death. Any animals confined in the house may suffer from neglect, so be sure to leave written word with a friend, relative or neighbor so they can gain entry and take care of your pets should the need arise.

You should always take your new kitten or cat to a veterinarian for a checkup, regardless of where you acquire him. He should be in good health and free from any parasites. However, if you have had him for more than ten days, and he comes down with a cold or something similarly minor, do not worry as this is to be expected and is no cause for concern.

If you are moving to another country, you cat may need to be quarantined. Check with the relevant authorities about the quarantine laws in that country.

To learn more about the different types of Pet Adoption for your dogs, cats, horse, etc., and how to get discount and cheap pet medications, make sure to visit http://callpetmeds.com/Understanding_Your_Cat.html 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 Choose Cat Litter Pans, Bowls and Saucers and Toys For Their Cats

2008-11-04T21:18:00.001-08:00

By Paul Kramer

The size of your cat's litter pan depends on how large she is and if she will be sharing it with any other cats. You can purchase a plastic litter pan at any grocery or pet store. And it is a good idea to have a few disposable cardboard pans on hand.

These are useful for short trips with your cat. Or if you have a friend coming by to take care of her while you are gone, it makes it easier for your friend if the entire litter pan, contents and all, can be thrown out.

Litter pans also come with hoods or are completely enclosed with just a small opening for your cat to enter. The problem with this type of litter pan is that she will very often splash urine against the sides of the enclosure making even more work for you in cleaning not only the pan, but the enclosure as well.

Your cat will need bowls for both water and dry food. She will also need a flat saucer for moist or wet food. If there are other cats in the house, or if you are feeding outdoor cats, a water feeder and a dispenser for dry food are excellent.

These can hold a larger amount of water and food than bowls, and have protective covers to keep the contents fresher and free from dirt and dust. A water feeder is also useful if you are away from home for several hours at a time, because it means your cat will not go thirsty if she knocks it over.

There are many cat toys on the market. Although the best ones have you attached, your cat will need toys for when you are away or too busy to play with her. You can either make your own toys or purchase them.

The stores are full of toys for cats but make sure that any you purchase are free of small attachments. These can come off easily and be accidentally swallowed. A good rule of thumb is to ask yourself if the toy is safe for a human baby. If not, then it is probably not safe for your cat.

To learn more about the different types of Pet Basic Equipment for your dogs, cats, horse, etc., and how to get discount and cheap pet medications, make sure to visit http://callpetmeds.com/How_The_Experts_Prepare_A_Safe_Place_For_Their_Cat_To_Sleep.html 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.

Can Healthy Cat Food Contain Preservatives?

2008-11-04T20:16:00.000-08:00

By Madeleine Innocent

In this day and age of the mighty dollar masquerading as king, it becomes more and more difficult to trust businesses who have a vested interest in gaining your sale. As cats can't talk to us, or perhaps I should say, as we can't hear what cats are telling us, we don't have that all important input to know if we are providing our cats with a healthy cat food.

If you do a quick search on the internet, you'll come across practically all pet food manufacturers proclaiming their brand is 'all natural', 'healthy', 'holistic', even 'organic', but in every single case they are selling dry food. Just think about it for a minute. Dried food which contains any form of meat just won't keep at room temperature. Try keeping your steak out of the refrigerator for a few days and see what happens.

So how do pet food manufacturers keep cat food indefinitely at room temperature? The only possible way to do this is to add preservatives. Despite many claims saying there are no preservatives, logic tells you there has to be.

Cooking in itself may preserve meat a little longer than raw meat, but not for weeks, or even years. So what, you may be thinking, I know there are preservatives in some of the foods I eat and I seem to be OK. Surely a few preservatives doesn't mean I'm not feeding my cat a healthy cat food?

I personally don't think any preservative is OK. It may appear to be harmless in the short term, but in the long term there will be consequences. But apart from my personal opinion, there are some laws, perhaps rather basic or not well enforced, in almost every country around the world, that protects human food. So all preservatives used in human food has to be considered 'reasonably safe' by some standards.

Unfortunately, there are no such safe guards in pet food. Or the laws are even less effectively enforced than the human laws. So the preservatives used in cat food can be the most toxic. Does cat food containing highly toxic preservatives sound like a healthy cat food to you?

Ever heard of formalin? Embalmers use it to preserve dead bodies. Formalin, also known as formaldehyde, is widely used in pet food to preserve it.

You probably haven't heard of ethoxyquin. That's a preservative used in the rubber industry. It's in the tyres of your car. So what on earth is it doing in your cat food? Lets look at ethoxyquin's history. When factory workers were exposed to it, they exhibited side effects similar to those of agent orange:

constant diarrhoea

vision disorders including blindness

organ failure

organ cancers

leukaemia

Are you getting a bit concerned? Perhaps your cat is suffering from some kind of organ damage? Here are a few other common preservatives used in cat food to keep it at room temperature indefinitely;

sodium nitrite, which gives a nice rosy colour to food and can produce powerful carcinogenic substances known as nitrosamines

propyl gallate - is now suspected of causing liver damage

propylene glycol used to maintain the right texture and moisture content is used as coolant antifreeze in engines

up to 1000 times more salt than occurs naturally

No manufacturer can keep preservatives out of dry cat food if it has a long shelf life. So, if you don't feed your cat a commercial cat food, what can you feed her?

To my way of thinking, the only sure way of knowing you are providing a healthy cat food is to prepare it yourself. Before you throw your hands up in horror, saying you don't know how, you don't have time, that's where I come in.

I've done the research for a balanced, healthy cat food. I've made all the mistakes and can show how not to fall into the traps I did. By feeding your cat a healthy cat food, you'll have fewer trips to your veterinarian and your cat will live longer.

Madeleine Innocent has been a homoeopath, a natural health therapist, since 2000. She treats both people and animals and finds that when the diet of her patient is addressed, to one that is more in keeping with natural laws, at the same time as her treatment, enormous strides in the resultant good health are made. To underestimate a good, natural diet is to play Russian roulette with life.

For more information, click on this website:- http://www.naturallyhealthycats.com

Cat Urinary Tract Blockage - A Survival Guide

2008-11-04T12:56:00.000-08:00

By Kate Rieger

As a cat owner you must recognize the signs of a cat urinary tract blockage such as your cat straining to urinate, bloody urine or your cat not urinating. If your cat is a male, he is at risk for the very life-threatening complications of a cat urinary tract blockage. If he survives this painful disorder he needs extra attention for improved cat urinary health.

It is easy to forget the strategic role the urinary system plays in keeping your cat alive. This system consists of two kidneys, a bladder, sphincter muscles, two ureters and a urethra. These organs filter out waste products, toxins and excess fluids from the bloodstream, then remove it from his body as urine.

The urethra in your male cat is narrower than in a female cat Tiny bladder stones or mucus can plug the male's narrower urethra. It doesn't take much to plug his narrow opening.

You should suspect a cat urinary tract blockage if you notice blood in his urine, your cat straining in the litter box, or no urine.

This is An Emergency Situation

When your cat experiences a cat urinary tract blockage for more than 24 hours his urinary system shuts down. His kidneys stop filtering toxins and this pollutes his bloodstream. This toxin build-up will kill your cat in three to six days.

Unblocking A Blocked Cat

You must seek veterinary help for your cat The vet will feel your cat's bladder and if there is a blockage the bladder will feel like a peach. Inflamed bladders are small and empty. In any case, your vet needs to be the one making the determination.

As your vet probes your cat's abdomen and bladder, the pressure may dislodge the obstruction, however this is not common. More often, a urinary catheter is placed into the urethral opening and this breaks up the obstruction. Sometimes a solution is used to flush the plug back into the bladder where it dissolves.

This is a very painful procedure and usually anesthesia is used to sedate your cat In some drastic situations, the catheter does not remove the blockage and the veterinarian must perform a perineal urethrostomy. In short, your cat's penis is removed and a new urinary opening is made.

Once the blockage is removed the catheter may have to stay in place until the urinary system is able to return to its normal process of removing toxins from the your cat It is equally important to keep your cat well hydrated to replace the expelled fluids, thereby preventing dehydration. Your cat may need intravenous replacement of fluids. Once your cat's urine stream is strong and your cat is drinking fluids on his own your vet will send your cat home.

At home, your cat is still at risk of another blockage or poor cat urinary health for some time after the initial episode. Now its your job to watch for signs of another cat urinary tract blockage. His bladder's pH levels are out of whack due to stress, anesthesia and the medications given to him. This can lead to a repeat blockage.

Keep plenty of fresh water in bowls throughout the house. Refill the bowls daily. Reduce or eliminate any additional stress factors on your cat He may prefer to stay in his own bedroom (complete with water bowls and litter box) with the door shut.

Your vet may recommend pain medications to help reduce the urethral spasms and help urine pass. Think twice about using steroids to help with swelling and pain. These anti-inflammatories also promote infections in cats that have had a urinary catheter.

More veterinarians are recommending herbal remedies to help reduce stress in post trauma cats. They are also finding that certain herbs, like Arctostaphylos uva ursi, improve cat urinary health by promoting the proper pH level in the urinary tract system. Berberis vulgaris acts as an anti-inflammatory and has a restorative effect on the bladder. Passiflora incarnata (Passionflower) is an herb used to soothe your cat's nerves and reduce stress levels.

Loving cat owners do not want their cat to experience the excruciating pain of a cat urinary tract blockage. Nor do they want to have to say 'Yes' to a perineal urethrostomy in order to save their cat's life. Herbal remedies help your cat 'survive the cure' and prevent a recurrence.

Visit my site today to learn more about how to prevent a cat urinary tract blockage [out] and discover how natural herbal solutions are effective in supporting a strong and vital cat urinary health system.

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

Cats and Longevity - Tips to Live Longer and Healthier

2008-11-03T12:54:00.003-08:00

By O'Della Wilson

Keeping your cat healthy is key to ensuring a long life. By following a few guidelines you can increase your cat's life expectancy.

My cat, Cutie Pie, was found within minutes of his birth and the first two months of his life were touchy, but he made it through. Last month he turned eighteen years old and continues to thrive. His doctor says his health is better than most cats half his age. He attributes Cutie Pie's great health to his life style.

A key factor in longevity is indoor living. Not only does this protect them from poisonous plants and parasites, but it prevents them from being exposed to other animals which might carry diseases. Indoor living also eliminates the hazards of traffic or natural enemies of felines.

Annual medical exams and vaccinations are crucial in maintaining your cat's long term health. Even when your fluffy feline remains indoors they are still exposed to the outside environment every time you or someone else enters and exits your home.

Daily vitamins assist in the prevention of illness in addition to making sure your kitty is getting the required nutrients. Ask your vet what your cat's particular needs might be. Kittens have different needs than adult or older cats and require different strengths. Pet supply stores carry a variety of flavors to suit even the pickiest taste buds.

Food and water dishes should be washed daily. A clean fresh supply of water will lesson the chances of urinary tract infections. Water dishes should be kept in low traffic areas to prevent dust and dirt contaminants. Your cat should have access to fresh water around the clock. Automatic dispensers are OK as precautions, but should never be relied upon. Food dishes should not be overfilled, containing only enough food for the day. As your cat gets older, try mixing dry food with some moist food to provide better intestinal health. Older cats require more water and fiber intake to maintain good health.

Litter pans should be scooped twice daily or more if needed. Litter pans should be emptied, washed thoroughly and filled with fresh clean litter once a week. Not only will this keep your cat healthier, but it will keep the humans of your household healthier and the air clear of litter pan odors. [Always wash hands thoroughly after contact with litter pans.]

Keep your cat active by dipping their favorite toy in catnip. Use only 100% organic. I have tried non-organic cat nips, but it resulted in various side effects. Exercise is important in longevity. Catnip is a great means of providing extra energy to get your cat moving, but again I must caution -- do not depend on it as a sole motivator for exercise. Providing towers and shelves, along with plenty of toys will provide the incentive most cats need. Placing their favorite toys on the top shelves will keep them climbing. A word of caution on toys: Bells, feathers, and squeak toys might seem fun, but they pose a serious choking threat. If you are going to use these toys with your cat, use only while you are in attendance. Never give your cat access to these toys unattended.

Finally, interaction with lots of love goes a long way. Brushing their coat weekly cuts down on shedding and provides loving interaction. Talking to your cat regularly goes a long way too. The more you talk, the more they learn and understand your directives. This leads to better behavior also. Cats are independent creatures, but they thrive on affection and attention.

This article written and provided by: O'Della Wilson AKA Alhavakia, published author and freelance writer.

http://www.alhavakia.com

http://odellawilson.wordpress.com

Cat Losing Fur?

2008-11-03T12:54:00.001-08:00

By Doris J Canova

There are many reasons for a cat losing fur. With cats, the problem can be caused by a number of factors. The number one cause of itching, allergies, a cat losing fur is because the cats is an allergy to flea saliva, while bad odors have numerous causes. Hair loss and bad odor is always a sign of a health problem. A trip to the veterinarian is essential in determining the specific cause. Your veterinarian may discover changes in your cat's health that you have overlooked. It is always better to contact your vet just to be safe.

Cat losing fur can also come down to something as simple as grooming. Cats keep clean by licking themselves - but not every cat is an expert, particularly overweight cats! Since cats are so clean, they tend to prevent a lot of problems.

Excessive licking, which can lead to acat losing fur, is considered a displacement behavior but can be greatly reduced by calming and comforting your cat. It can sometimes become habitual if the source of the problem is not properly identified and addressed. Have there been any changes in the house recently?

A recent move, the addition or loss of another pet in the home, or even a change of schedule can cause anxiety in the cat. Try to set aside some extra time every day just to play with your cat, pet her and talk to her. That will help reduce her stress and hopefully help to resolve her excessive licking problemas well as the cat losing fur.

If your pet is nervous by nature, she may be chewing herself raw or just losing hair from stress. A flea eating the flesh causes animals to become stressed if they have had problems with them for a little while and have had to handle the itch with constant scratching.

Your cat losing fur in only certain areas could be a symptom that possibly indicates ringworm, but it could also indicate other skin conditions/allergies or health problems. If the lesions are all over her body, the vet is definitely the best one to advise you, make a diagnosis, and prescribe a treatment.

Another cause for a cat losing fur is simply a part of the process of aging.

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

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

Teacup Kittens - The World's Smallest Kitten

2008-11-01T11:28:00.001-07:00

By Wendy Pan

Not all cats advertised as miniature are teacup kittens. Be aware that the standard size female cat will weight about 11 to 14 pounds. The standard size male cat will weight about 12 to 17 pounds. A teacup size female cat will weight about 3 to 6.5 pounds and the teacup size male will weight about 3 to 7.5 pounds. This is a good rule-of-thumb to keep in mind when shopping for a teacup. Some unscrupulous breeders will try to sell you a cat under ten pounds as a teacup when that weight falls within the normal weight range for a standard cat. When shopping for a teacup do not be fooled by a breeder that will try to sell you a runt or tell you that any cat less than ten pounds is a miniature.

Teacup kittens come in a variety of breeds. These cats are bred to be small by inbreeding. The smallest cat of one breed is mated with the smallest cat of another breed progressively in each generation and with each mating a miniature or teacup cat is born. The result of this type of breeding results in dwarfism. There are two forms of dwarfism where teacups and other miniature animals are concerned and they are achondroplastic where the dominant gene will, through mutation, affect the hormones that control bone growth, and the primordial which occurs naturally. At this point let's cover the most common breeds of miniature (teacup) cats.

The most popular of the teacup kittens is the combination of Persian and Exotic. The MiniPer, a combination of Persians and Exotics was developed in California by Cher Simmitt. The MiniPers are primordial dwarves and their bodies are proportionate in every way except that they are smaller than the standard Persian and Exotic. The MiniPaws are a hybrid and carry the genes of both the achondroplastic and primordial dwarfism. They are small in proportion and have shortened legs thus, causing the legs to be somewhat deformed. They are a good example of the mutation of the dominant gene and its affect on the hormones that control bone growth. .

The Napoleon was developed intentionally by mating a Munchkin with a Persian. They have long coats and beautiful big eyes much like the Persian. The Napoleon is the newest of the teacup breeds.

The Lambkin was developed by cross breeding a Munchkin with a Selkirk Rex. They are called Lambkin because of their soft curly coats that resemble the coat of a lamb. Most of the miniature or teacup kittens are cross breeds of Persians and Exotics and are the most popular and sought after of all of the miniature breeds.

Many people want the teacups because they're cute and resemble kittens. They are easy to hold and carry and most of them are lap cats. However, be forewarned, they may be kittens when you buy them but like all other cats they grow up and lose their kittenish ways. They are after all, cats and cats do not stay kittens forever.

Wendy Pan is an accomplished niche website developer and author.

To learn more about teacup kittens, please visit Best Cat Scratch Posts for current articles and discussions.

Understanding Feline Nutrition - Like Teens, Cats Are Picky Eaters

2008-11-01T11:27:00.004-07:00

By Rob Metras

Ever wonder why Tom was always after Jerry in the classic cartoon, Tom and Jerry? Well the reason is simple: Cat food. You see, cats are meat eaters. And to a cat, a mouse is a tasty tidbit packed full of the nutrients it needs to stay healthy.

Believe it or not, proper feline nutrition is one of the simplest ways to ensure your cat's body functions properly. Feeding your cat right helps prevent obesity, inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes and a number of other cat illnesses and diseases. Like humans, if a cat's nutritional needs are not met, its' health may suffer.

Outdoor cats satisfy some of their nutritional needs from the critters they catch. Indoor cats on the other hand, are not so lucky. But both need your help.

More than anything else your cat needs a daily dose of fresh water. It also needs fat, protein, carbohydrates, and certain vitamins and minerals. Carbohydrates provide energy. Protein helps tissues stay healthy. Vitamins help metabolism. Fats help store and absorb the vitamins cats need to maintain healthy coats. And minerals help cat hair and skin to develop properly.

With so many different types of cat food on the market, it seems like feeding your cat right requires a degree in feline nutrition. There is dry food, wet food, cat food to prevent hairballs, and food for different-aged cats. There ís name-brand cat food, store brand, and really expensive brands. So which cat food is right?

Many veterinarians recommend dry cat food over wet. Dry food contains fewer preservatives than wet, does not spoil, and does not usually cause overeating. Feeding your cat higher-priced varieties is typically better as these are more nutrient dense. But even the best cat food will not do your cat any good if the cat does not like the taste. The bottom line? When in doubt about cat care, ask the vet!

Find out for yourself about cats and other pets by visiting me at Your New Pets. Subscribe to our feed to get your content delivered directly to you at Give Me Your Cat Feed. I invite you to leave your comments on the blog.

Tips on Behaviour Modification With Cats - Cats Rule!

2008-11-01T11:27:00.003-07:00

By Rob Metras

We are usually drawn to cats because of their independent nature, but that same independent nature can cause certain behavior problems that we just don't know how to deal with, and this is usually the reason why so many cats are given up for adoption.

An essential key in getting your cat to change his behavior is to catch the unwanted behavior early on. Most owners let a bad behavior go on to long. The longer a behavior goes on the harder it is to change. The following tips will help you change unwanted behaviors to wanted behaviors.

Go to the veterinarian - When you first notice the irregular behavior, you want to make sure that it is not a medical problem. A lot of medical problems that can affect your cat manifest themselves in the form of a behavioral problem. For example, if a cat stops using the litter box, and urinates in different places of the house, it could be because of a urinary infection. It could also be because the cat is getting older and it is too hard for him to get in and out of the litter box. In this type of case there are simple solutions, but only a vet can tell you if it is a medical problem.

Understand your Cat - Before you want to change his behavior you need to understand what is a normal reaction for your cat. What you might think of as misbehaving may actually be your cats natural behavior. For example, your cat doesn't scratch your furniture on purpose, he does it because his claws are growing. In order to curb a behavior like this you need to get him a cat scratch tower. To get him to use it there are a few things you can do like putting sticky tape on the furniture where he has been scratching. Cats don't like to get their claws sticky. You can also tape aluminum foil there, they don't like the sound of aluminum foil.

Get your Cat away from the affected area - If you are trying to change a cats behavior then you need to get him away from the area in which he is behaving badly. Place things the cat doesn't like in the areas he is misbehaving in. So if he is peeing in a certain area of the house, place oranges in that area. Cats hate the smell of oranges.

Non violence - Whatever you do, use non violent techniques to get your pet cat to change its behavior. Cats love to be praised so you need to use as much positive reinforcement as possible.

Curbing Aggressive Behavior - If you have brought another animal into the house and the cat seems to always be fighting, this is normal behavior for the cat. Cats are territorial. If it's a dog you have brought into the house give the cat preference by feeding him above the dog. That way the dog will know the cat outranks him, and this will make the cat feel more at ease. Lessen aggressive behavior by giving your cat the space he needs. The first thing you can do is to get separate litter boxes, separate food bowls, and separate water. Giving their own space will help them control their aggressive behavior.

Cats can be moody at times, and some cats seem to be moodier than others. Remember when a cat is feeling sick his emotions and his behavior will also be affected.

Find out for yourself about your cats, dogs and pets by visiting me at Your New Pets. I invite you to get our RSS feed to get your content delivered directly to you at Give me your Feed.

Stop the Cat Scratching and Smell the Citrus - Ways to Protect Your Furniture

2008-11-01T11:27:00.001-07:00

By Rob Metras

Cat scratches are considered as the biggest menace in the training of a cat. The cat normally scratches the furniture and other hard surface with its claws and can damage furniture and other surfaces, causing you to feel desperate, especially when nothing seems to deter it from doing it again.

If cat scratching is what's keeping you from getting that cute cat, then don't worry so much. The scratching of the furniture and sofa can be stopped, and you can teach cats to scratch the right surfaces, and keep them away from your furniture and other unwanted scratching surface.

There are a few reasons why cats scratch. They may scratch, in order to leave a visual presence and mark their scent. They want to let other cats know that they are living here and don't want other cats to interfere.

A cats' claws grow in layers and the outer layer promotes the growth of the new layer. The growth of the claw causes some discomfort and forces the cat to scratch on any rough surface. Scratching the rough surface gives the cats claws in shape and this is just another reason they continue to scratch..

Scratching of the hard surfaces enhances the stretching of muscles, creates good blood circulation and promotes a healthy and stable body for the cat. The cat becomes comfortable in the process of scratching and also tends to do it when playing with the other cats.

You may be able to discourage this cat behavior by scolding them to a certain extent, but you can also avoid your cat from scratching in the wrong places by adopting the following techniques.

• Purchase the right scratching surfaces for the cat to prevent them from scratching the furniture and other items.

• Generally cats prefer hard and rough surfaces like wood for scratching. Having the cat Practice on the scratching post or tree lets him be happy and gives you scratch free furniture.

• Decorate the scratch tree or post with toys and catnip. This creates an attraction for them. The scratching post should be lengthy and tall for the cats.

• The scratching materials should be made visible to the cat, so it can scratch these items rather than the furniture.

• Using Sticking tapes and adhesive tapes on the furniture over the scratched areas, causes the cat to stay away from those areas because of the discomfort the stickiness of the tape causes.

• Some noise makes cats uneasy, so bonding of aluminum foil and plastic covers over the furniture or other items frustrates the cat because of the sound caused and they will avoid scratching on these areas.

• Cats generally hate the aroma of oranges. Keeping oranges over the furniture makes them run away from the place. Hanging the oranges over any hard surface also prevents the cat from scratching.

• Training the cats also helps in keeping a scratch free home and furniture.

Following the above techniques will help you keep a scratch free environment and create a peaceful living experience for you and your cat.

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Providing Indoor Cats With a Stimulating Environment - Cats Just Want to Have Fun

2008-11-01T11:26:00.002-07:00

By Rob Metras

Cats are wonderfully inquisitive, intelligent animals. In fact, they posses senses that are much more acute than our own, that is why it is important to offer cats that are restricted to living indoors things that are stimulating and interesting. Indoor cats get bored and then stressed when they do not have adequate stimuli. The worse part is that a bored cat will probably start misbehaving and scratching furniture, urinating in different areas of the house, and start meowing a lot. Inactivity in indoor cats also produces a weigh problem in the cat. The following tips will help you make the cats indoor environment more comfortable and give him something to do.

Before finding stimulation for your indoor cat make sure he/she has the basics. Be sure that he/she has fresh water available and you might want to leave a small amount of dry food out for him/her during the day. If you have more than one cat be sure that you have separate litter boxes for them and be sure that your cat has a warm comfortable cat bed.

Next you need to understand the way your cats natural instinct and behavior works, that way you can recreate their natural environment inside, sans mice. Cats love to jump and to climb. They like to be up high, so offer a cat tree that is pretty high, one that will give them climbing opportunities.

Cats also have a natural tendency to want to keep their claws sharp, and they use something to scratch to do this. Outside they usually use trees, but in the home they may go for the furniture, so you want to have a scratching post to avoid having your furniture clawed at.

If you have ever watched a cat at play, then you know that they love to sprint and pounce on moving things. This helps keep their senses sharp, it gives them exercise and keeps them fit. You can provide different toys and activities for your cat, to keep him/her pouncing. A great game to play with him/her is the fishing pole. Get a stick, a pole or an old fishing pole and tie a ribbon, a plush toy or something fluffy to it and move it around for your cat on the floor.

Use paper grocery bags or boxes around the house for your cat to play with. Cats love to hide and pounce on these boxes and bags, and it is a great way for them to get the exercise they need. If your cat does not understand what the paper bag is for, then help him/her out a bit. Set it on the floor and when he/she comes near it scratch the back of the bag, he/she will soon catch on that it is a game.

Use Catnip! Cats love the scent of catnip, it is relaxing to them. It is a safe substance and the cats themselves will moderate the use of it. You can either grow it yourself or buy it in some cat toys or in a spray. Cats truly prefer the fresh grown catnip though.

Indoor cats are generally deprived of contact with other cats and animals, that is why many sit on the windowsill to see if they can watch other animals. In quiet home environments where there are no other animals, the cat could get lonely. Now there are some special cat videos on the market that can be left on as background noise, and as visual stimuli for the cat during the day.

Remember, if indoor cats are left to their own devices, they may find their own entertainment and that could be dangerous for your furniture and house hold items. That is why if you plan out your cats entertainment you can avoid this type of problem and you both can just have fun.

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Do Cats Need Winter Boots?

2008-11-01T11:26:00.001-07:00

By Rob Metras

It snowed last night for the first time this year in my area of Southern Ontario and it got me to thinking about boots,winter coats and the three kitties that call my place home.

"Get me some proper boots and you won't lack for fur caps , nor for decent meals, nor for anything else" said the puss in boots to the son. When I think of "the puss in boots" from my childhood, I remember all the favorite reading times, and imagining that cat in boots. At the time it seemed strange to think of a cat in boots, but today with all the new and cute pet clothes available the thought is not that strange. There are actually boots for cats and pet owners are using them, but if you are thinking of purchasing them, then you should proceed with caution.

Pet clothes, including pet clothes for cats is becoming quite popular, and a number of different pet stores and pet accessory shops offer different types of clothing including in some cases, winter boots for cats.

The question is does your cat need winter boots? Well, if you live in cold climates and your cat goes outside, he may be able to benefit from winter boots. The problem is that cats have such an independent nature, and their claws are so much a part of the way they sense things that it may be difficult to get the cat to become accustomed to the winter boots.

As pets get older and that includes cats, they need extra help in keeping warm, especially if the cat goes outdoors. As they age when they go out on long jaunts their body temperature may start to drop when they come back in and start to cool down, so winter boots may be a temporary option until the cat warms up again.

There are certain pros and cons to having cats wear winter boots. It's true that when there is snow and ice outside, your pets paws can freeze and the snow can pack in between it's toes, and if there is salt out on the driveways then he can track that salt into the house and onto your carpets. But if you use winter boots on a cat and let him go outside unsupervised you are also taking away his defenses, because a cat uses his claws to defend himself against other animals, and when he has boots on, well, he just isn't able to use those claws as well.

Cat boots can be used as a decorative style or as a way to warm his paws up when he comes back inside, but it's probably not such a good idea to let him out on his own with cat boots on.

The pet clothing fashions are cute and can be used on cats. There are little sweaters and boots available, but should probably be enjoyed at home, and left off if your cat goes outside. The best way to let your cat avoid getting cold is probably by keeping him inside where it's warm and toasty. Most of the time the cat will sniff outside when it's really cold and turn his back and decide to stay inside anyway.

Find out for yourself about acts and other pets by visiting me at Your New Pets. Subscribe to our feed to get your content delivered directly to you at Give me your Cat Feed. Just remember, that what looks cute for a human might be weird from the animals point of view.

Cat Illnesses - What You Do Not Know Could Kill Your Kitty - 1, Not 9 Lives

2008-11-01T11:25:00.004-07:00

By Rob Metras

Here is something that might surprise you: Cat diseases can kill. Feline leukemia, feline distemper, rabies, feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), upper respiratory infections, urinary tract infections and more are serious cat issues. Left untreated, any one can quickly claim your cat's life.

A cat has just one life, not nine, and it is up to you to protect it. Fortunately, protection is easier than it's ever been before. In fact, many of the cat diseases mentioned above can be avoided completely. All you have to do is make sure your cat is vaccinated according to the schedule recommended by your vet.

Contrary to what you might think, vaccinating a cat is not cruel and unusual punishment. The most it will suffer is temporary discomfort. And you would have to agree; that is an acceptable trade-off for a lifetime of prevention.

Keeping your cat indoors is another easy way to protect your cat. Many potentially fatal cat diseases are passed on to healthy cats via bites or contact with an infected cat feces or urine. Some viruses also infect inanimate objects. Keeping your cat indoors reduces your cat's risk of exposure.

No matter how well-developed, natural cat hunting instincts offer little protection against these highly contagious and deadly cat diseases. Even if you have an indoor cat, you have to vaccinate. That is because indoor cats occasionally escape, can be exposed during trips to the vet, and can come into contact with infected toys, food bowls, or brushes.

If your cat is not acting like its normal self, take it to the vet right away. Don't wait it out. Something as seemingly harmless as vomiting can be a sign of something far more serious. The vet spent years learning how to administer proper cat care - You did not. Do not take the risk.

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5 Tips on Litter Box Behavior

2008-11-01T11:25:00.003-07:00

By Rob Metras

Does your cat's litter box behavior need an adjustment? If your cat has stopped going where is it supposed to go. it might be your fault! Here are 5 cat care tips on litter box behavior that will get your cat going where it should.

1. Scoop more often

Lots of cat owners do not keep the litter box as clean as a cat would like. Cats spend hours cleaning themselves and when it comes to cleaning their litter boxes, they expect the same from you. If you are an occasional scooper, try scooping a couple times a day. Chances are your cat's litter box behavior will improve.

2. Keep it clean

You will probably notice a change in your cat's litter box behavior if you also clean the entire litter box more often. Plastic traps odor, and most litter boxes and liners are made of plastic. Change the liner and litter and wash the litter box with warm water and mild-smelling detergent a few times every month.

3. Take the lid off

Humans prefer a covered litter box but cats do not. When covered they cannot see approaching enemies. And covers trap odor. Uncover the litter box and see if your cat's litter box behavior returns to normal.

4. Give your cat what it is used to.

Switching cat litter brands is the easiest way to make your catís litter box behavior turn from good to bad. The new litter you bought because it was a better bargain might not feel right to the cat. If it does not feel familiar, do not expect your cat to use it. They hate change therefore avoid it..

5. The litter box brings to mind bad memories.

If something bad or frightening happened when the cat last used the litter box, the cat might be scared to go there again. Try moving the litter box someplace quiet and away from doors that slam, objects that fall and animals that harass. Then see if the litter box behavior improves.

And there you have it : 5 quick and easy cat care litterbox tips! Now get out there and scoop!

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5 Tips on Getting Your Cat's Trust

2008-11-01T11:25:00.001-07:00

By Rob Metras

Have you ever wondered why some cats are so pleasant and others just seem mean and even threatening? Research has proven that cats are blessed with an effective communication system, and they have hundreds of different vocalizations to get them what they need.

Cats can understand what their owner wants because of the repetition of words and actions the cat owner does in a consistent way. This repetition of action and words creates the relationship between the cat and you the owner.

Earning a cats trust is not as difficult as you might think. In fact taking the time to care, vocalize, and watch the cat builds a strong relationship and causes the cat to begin to trust their owner. Granted it takes a lot of practice, because a cats behavior is not changed easily, but with a lot of practice and trust, the cat will slowly change its pattern and behavior towards you. The following steps helps in maintaining a good relationship with your cat and these steps promote trust between you and the cat.

1. One of the secrets to creating a strong relationship between you and your cat, has to do with caring for the cat. Giving him, or her, the right food, caring for them, and loving them will begin to create a strong relationship between you and your cat. If the cat is always be provided with love, and respect, they will become a very happy companion and friend to you. Strong relationship should be maintained by talking with them softly, watching and responding to their sounds. These actions make them happy and gain their confidence and trust.

2. Be sure that your cat is fed correctly and given the right food. When your cat gets the food he likes, you make him happy and that creates a bond of trust with the owner. The cat should be supplied with high-protein food on a daily basis. Cats are grazers and normally eat four to five times a day and so, they have to be supplied with good and healthy food. The amount of food plays an important role towards the health and growth of the cat. Cats should not be over fed and they should be provided with quality and high grade foods. Healthy cats will always be happier and more cheerful than those that are poorly fed.

3. Cats love to play with toys and cat nips. Getting the right toys makes them happy and more loving towards you. A bored cat will always be unhappy. Providing the cat with the toys like, bells, glossy ribbons, and jingles make them happy and fun to be around. chew toys gives them something to nibble and provides strength for their teeth. A happy cat will have a strong bond with its owner.

4. The cat needs a companion to play with and playing with the cat promotes a sense of security and safety for the cat and results in the development of trust between cat and owner.

5. Making a home with a good bed, litter box and soft towel makes the cat happy and it lets him know he has his own separate space. This bed makes the cat comfortable for sleeping and creates a good rapport between owner and cat. Remember, cats are living beings and they should be supported with love and care.

Find out for yourself about cats and other pets by visiting me at Your New Pets. I invite you to subscribe to our feed to get your content delivered directly to you at Give Me More Cat Love. Visit soon and visit often.

Vaccinating Your New Kitten

2008-11-01T11:24:00.006-07:00

By Rebeca Rambal

Your veterinarian will recommend that your kitten come back in two to four weeks for a second dose of FVRCPC and a second FIP and FLV vaccine. If he was wormed at his first visit, he will receive a second treatment. If your kitten is at least 12 weeks old, he will also get his first rabies shot at this visit.

Your kitten needs to come back a third time between the ages of ten to sixteen weeks. He will get a third FVRCPC shot at this time. If your kitten was too young to get a rabies vaccine at the last visit, he will get one this time.

When your kitten has gotten his third set of FVRCPC inoculations, he is home free until he reaches a year of age. At one year old, he will need another FVRCPC vaccination and another rabies. If he gets his second rabies shot within a year of the first, he will then be safe for three years. The FVRCPC needs to be given every year, however. If your kitten got vaccinations for FIP and Feline Leukemia, he will get booster shots for them at his one year visit to the veterinarian.

Vaccinating your new kitten is safe, but some cats do have side effects on occasion. Feline Leukemia vaccinations can sometimes be the cause of a form of cancer that may develop at the site of the injection. This is the main reason many veterinarians do not recommend the vaccine if cats are not at risk of contracting it. Some vaccines may create tumors at the injection site. Most of the time, these tumors can be surgically removed before they spread through the cat's system. This is a very rare side effect; the risk of your cat catching the disease the vaccine prevents is much higher than this side effect. If you notice a small lump forming at the injection site, let your vet know. These lumps are usually a sign of a simple reaction to the vaccine, but in rare instances, they can develop into a tumor.

Vaccinating your new kitten will help keep him or her healthy by preventing many diseases that may be debilitating at best or fatal at worst. It is easy to protect your cat against these dangers to their health with a few short trips to the vet. Do yourself and your cats a favor and protect them with vaccinations.

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

Neutering Or Spaying Your New Kitten

2008-11-01T11:24:00.005-07:00

By Rebeca Rambal

There are just too many cats that are either homeless or feral, and people are starting to notice that it is important to neuter their pet cats. Cats mature quickly and can reproduce several times every year, so two feral cats can soon produce twenty or more.

Most feral cats are often pet cats who were not neutered or spayed, and released by their owners when they couldn't take care of them any longer. Feral cats live in colonies, and they can spread diseases to any pet dogs and cats in their vicinity. Even if they are otherwise healthy, they may be flea-infested. When the females come into heat, the colony can disrupt the sleep of an entire neighborhood with their crying and fighting. Cats who are hungry enough will raid garbage cans. Feral kittens can destroy landscaping and soil your yard or outdoor furniture.

Neutering or spaying your new kitten in the long run can obviously reduce the number of unwanted kittens that are produced, but it also can provide other benefits. A female cat in heat is very loud. Her crying is quickly drowned out by the fighting and yowling of any local tom cats in the vicinity. Toms that are not neutered tend to roam far away from home if they are allowed outdoors and may get injured or killed. Unaltered tomcats that are kept indoors or outdoors will tend to mark all objects in their territory with urine, which is extremely strong-smelling.

Cats who are unaltered may come down with some types of cancers more frequently than altered cats. These cancers affect the reproductive organs. They are extremely rare in cats that have been altered by the age of one year. Unaltered cats may also catch any of several contagious diseases of the reproductive tract.

Unlike some animals, neutering or spaying your new kitten can be done at a very young age. Some humane societies and rescue groups recommend altering kittens at the age of eight weeks. Many veterinarians, however, suggest you wait until five or six months of age in most cases. The exceptions may be feral kittens who are trapped and then taken to be altered before being re-released to their colonies. By the time they are five or six months old, they may already be pregnant.

However, that doesn't mean that you can't alter your adult cat, it is just better to do it as young as possible.

If you have both male and female kittens in your home, you may want to neuter the males at a younger age, and wait until the girls are around six months old. This is recommended in many cases because the procedure is more difficult for females than males.

Most cats rarely have any problems after neutering, but sometimes incisions can become infected. Be sure to check your cat daily to make sure the incision is healing well. Symptoms of infection are puffiness and redness around the incision site. If your cat is licking or chewing at the stitches, you may need to have the cat wear an Elizabethan collar. This will prevent them from being able to reach the stitches. Male cats can go about their business quickly after the surgery, while females should be kept indoors for up to five days afterwards as they may injure themselves.

As with any type of surgery, there are some risks. In very, very rare occasions, cats might be allergic or have a fatal reaction to the anesthesia. However, statistically, the risk is minimal.

Neutering or spaying your new kitten is really a rather simple procedure. With a little extra care during recovery, your pet will have a happy, healthy life without worrying about unwanted litters and reproductive health.

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

The Serious Problems of Kidney Disease in Cats

2008-11-01T11:24:00.003-07:00

By MC Raflesia

Kidney disease is a general very disorder in cats. It could be present at birth or acquired. Wastes build up in the blood when kidneys malfunction. Generally cats don't drink nor pee much. This is for the reason that cats' kidneys run extremely hard through their lives concentrating their urine. Thus it is not astonishing that older cats are often seen with kidney disease. Nevertheless young cats may infrequently build up problems too.

Some symptoms of kidney disease in cats are weight loss, depression, vomiting, polyuria (excessive urination), polydipsia (excessive thirst), lethargy, enlarged kidneys, bad breath, weakness, and loss of coordination.

Kidney failure is one of the most widespread health problems experienced by cats, especially as they grow older.

However, in recent years, there have been several exciting scientific developments and nowadays there are ways of slowing the development of the disease. Maybe more significantly, recent treatments could considerably improve the quality of life for a pet having kidney failure.

The widespread problem in older cats is a kidney disease in the form of chronic kidney failure. An upsurge in water consumption and urination is the most obvious symptom. A blood check must be made if you observe these symptoms, since there are a number of conditions that could lead to this. The upsurge in drinking and urinating in chronic kidney failure is because of loss of the kidney's ability to focus the urine. The kidneys have so big reserve ability, and symptoms of kidney failure are not perceived until about 75% of kidney tissue is non-functional. As cats grow old, their possibilities of rising chronic kidney disease enhancing.

It is progressive and also deadly for chronic renal failure in cats. Because the kidney disease in cats engages the loss of kidney cells and replacement by scar tissue Conventional or alternative medical treatment could not reverse its course.

Upsurge of blood toxins and anemia are the most major problems initiated by the loss of kidney function. And these may lead to weight loss, lethargy, vomiting, loss of appetite, weakness, and other signs of illness.

In conventional medicine, there are drugs that may reduce anemia, and phosphate binders to put off phosphorus precipitates from more injuring the kidneys. These may not be palatable, and may lead to unfavorable reactions.

If you want to get some excellent resources on kidney, please visit my site on You and Your Kidney or Kidney Disease in Cats

All Natural Cat Food - Seven Good Reasons Why Nature is Best!

2008-11-01T11:24:00.001-07:00

By Madeleine Innocent

Feeding your cat an all natural cat food diet will improve her health, boost her immune system and create a happy cat. If you knew what went into most, if not all, commercial pet food, you would never buy it again. Truly, it's not for the faint hearted.

Most commercial pet food ingredients are cheap, as the better quality food goes for the higher priced human food market. Cheap food can mean anything from high fat content, meat by-products (hair, intestinal contents, chicken feet, rancid fat, dead or diseased animals), to low grade carbohydrates such as sugar, left over fast food or spoilt grain unfit for human consumption to the melamine used to bulk out American pet food imported from China.

None of this is normal or natural cat food and much of it is indigestible, so can you wonder that overall, cats health is on the decline?

What can you do about it?

The first and most important thing to do is change your cat's diet to a homemade, raw, all natural cat food, for seven good reasons.

Cats evolved on raw food over millions of years. They are best able to use this diet over all others.

Raw food contains all the essential vitamins, minerals, enzymes, amino acids and other nutrients, in the right amount, in a balanced form. Cooking destroys many essential nutrients.

Unlike processed cat food, natural cat food is easy to absorb and the cat utilises it efficiently.

An all natural cat food diet ensures your cat has healthy teeth and gums. Despite the claims, no processed cat food does this.

Parasites such as worms, fleas and ticks are minimal when you feed your cat this diet, as the environment of your cat's body is not conducive to them. This is the opposite of processed food which makes your cat's body a feeding ground for parasites.

All natural cat food keeps your cats immune system in good working order, so reducing or preventing many diseases, particularly the serious ones.

A hunting domestic cat is usually doing so to address an imbalance in their diet. A natural diet reduces a cat's desire to hunt.

Whatever the health of your cat is like at the moment, changing her diet to all natural cat food will go a long way to the prognosis of her condition. However, it isn't just a matter of substituting her processed food for raw meat. There are some important rules to follow and tips to consider.

For more information, please click on this website:- http://www.naturallyhealthycats.com

My Cat is Vomiting - When Hairballs Are Not the Cause of Cat Vomiting

2008-11-01T11:23:00.004-07:00

By Kate Rieger

Perhaps you have watched your cat gulp down his chow quickly (like a dog!), then drink a lot of water(like a dog!), then he jumped up on the bed for a nap(like a cat). He wakes up and jumps off the bed -- whoops -- your cat is vomiting his dinner all over the floor.

If he gives the mess a disdainful glare and sits down in front of the cat food bowl looking for more food, you don't need to be too concerned. Your cat simply had a load of undigested food in his belly and landed on the floor too hard which caused him to throw up his dinner. While overeating and cat hairballs are common causes of cat vomiting, here are some other reasons why your cat is vomiting and how you should react to them.

Swallowing a foreign object, like a plant that irritates the stomach; or dental floss or string, that has tangled itself inside his intestine
Pancreatitis
Diabetes
Hyperthyroidism
Kidney disease
Inflammatory bowel disease
Feline urinary tract infection

If there is blood in the vomit, either bright red or black, get your cat to the vet immediately. This is a sure sign that he has eaten something poisonous.

Cats are not cows, but they do enjoy occasionally eating grass and plants. If your cat is vomiting over and over, but shows no other signs of illness, hold off feeding him for 12 to 24 hours. If he becomes lethargic and won't eat after 24 hours get him to the vet - fast. He may have ingested something poisonous, or even have another illness like pancreatitis.

Cats love to play with strings of all types: dental floss, thread, yarn, tinsel, fishing line. When they swallow the string it has a chance to tangle up inside his intestines and even cause a blockage.

If your cat is vomiting repeatedly and doesn't let up, this is a sure sign that he has swallowed something foreign. An intestinal blockage is life threatening. Get him to the vet.

If you cat is a chronic vomiter - he vomits on a regular basis, but perhaps only once or twice a month, then he may be suffering from irritable bowel disease. If he drinks and urinates excessively in conjunction with cat vomiting, he may be diabetic, have kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, cancer, heartworm disease, or event a feline urinary tract infection.

If you are a cat owner whose cat is suffering from entangled intestines, or poisoning, or is a chronic vomiter, your cat needs proper diagnosis by a veterinarian. If the diagnosis requires long-term medical treatment, talk to you vet about herbal solutions for your cat.

Vets are turning more today to herbal solutions for treating the illnesses that cause chronic cat vomiting. Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) is an excellent tonic for the entire digestive tract including your cat's intestines, bladder and kidneys.

Urtica urens is used in modern herbalism to promote a healthy metabolism and supports strong thyroid and adrenal functions. Galega officinalis (Goat's Rue) helps improve pancreatic health and maintain healthy insulin levels in cats. Arctostaphylos uva ursi helps maintain normal pH levels in your cat's urinary tract.

If your cat is vomiting and you suspect one of these illnesses, natural herbal remedies play a large part in eliminating disease and maintaining wellness. Better yet, help your cat stick to a simple pet health care program that actually gets him on the fast track to recovery using simple, natural herbal solutions.

About The Author: Kate Rieger has been owned by 15+ cats and is a champion of spay and release for her feral cat neighbors. She is partnered with the Kentucky S.N.I.P clinic and together through adoptions, education programs and spay/neuter efforts, they provide affordable solutions to reducing the pet overpopulation crisis in the Kentuckiana region. While she would like to extend the concept of spay/neuter to some of the human population, she swears she's only into altering cats. Never one to be short on opinion, she is on good behavior during her speaking engagements at local schools, organizations, Fortune 100 companies, and on local and national radio talk shows.

Drop by and pick up a free copy of her eBook '111 Things You Don't Know That Could Harm Your Cat,' that shows you how to protect your cat from conditions that could injure your cat. Pick up a copy and protect your cat today.

4 Eared Cat - A Strange Mutation

2008-11-01T11:23:00.003-07:00

By Ian Pennington

A 4 eared cat can certainly be a very strange thing to see. Most people are accustomed to seeing normal cats with only two ears. It can be very frightening to witness such an odd event. In fact, many folks try to get a photograph if possible of the cat with four ears because it is such an unbelievable sight. Some individuals do not even believe what they are seeing!

Fours Ears Caused by Mutation

Cats with four ears have some sort of mutation, which causes them to grow an extra set of ears. However, it is actually a little more common than one might first believe or realize. It is no different than other weird occurrences that have recently popped up on the Internet or in the news. Some of these weird occurrences include a cow with two heads, a baby with two faces, or a dog with five legs. These occurrences are also due to mutations.

Witnessing a Cat with Four Ears

If one is lucky enough (or unlucky enough?) to witness such an occurrence as a 4 eared cat, one should certainly try to document the amazing experience with a video recorder or a camera so that others will believe the story, too. The local news station may even be interested in covering the story as well.

Not All Sightings are Real

Everyone should be warned that not all photos of cats with four ears are real. Some of the pictures currently on the Internet of cats with four ears have been altered using a simple computer program. Some people even stoop to the level of putting a fake pair of ears on a cat to try to convince others they have cats with four ears at home. Most people who fake a picture of a 4 eared cat are only doing so to gain fame or money from the fake picture.

Cats with Four Ears Merchandise is Available for Sale

Merchandise is available for sale on the Internet and in stores that contains images of cats with four ears. Shoppers can purchase a variety of items with this image on them. These items include t-shirts, coffee mugs, hats, caps, cards, pictures, posters, cups, and bumper stickers. While certainly odd items, these items are being purchased by consumers every single day.

A cat with four ears is truly a rare and exciting discovery for a person to make. It can be an unnerving and unnatural experience to actually see one in person, but it is also a little weird to see a picture of one as well. Remember that not all pictures of the four eared mutations are real, but some really are. Consider it a rare treat to witness this type of scary sighting.

Ian Pennington is an accomplished niche website developer and author. To learn more about 4 eared cat, please visit A Cats Guide for current articles and discussions.

Cat Hairballs

2008-11-01T11:23:00.001-07:00

By Doris J Canova

Cat hairballs are hair that was not digested, accumulated and coughed out. Cats will either pass hair through their digestive system or the hair will build up in their bodies causing the retching and heaving required to get rid of it. Cat hairballs are masses of fur that form in your cat's stomach. They are one of the most common health problems of cats.

Cat hairballs are a normal phenomenon in feline and there are many ways to manage them. The three most common remedies to help decrease the frequency or size of hairballs are hairball lubricants, fiber supplements, and improved grooming. There are some dry commercial cat foods specially formulated for hairball remedy. The best way, of course, is prevention.

According to some vets who operates a large cat practice, the biggest problems with intestinal lubricants are not using enough each time or not using it frequently enough. In almost all cases, the most effective dose is a two-inch strip from the tube of lubricant twice daily for two days.

With regard to diet, usually, a higher fiber diet can assist in the passage of hair through the digestive tract. Additionally, some pet food companies manufacture food for cats with recurrent cat hair ball problems. Ask your veterinarian about these. Be aware that most cat hairball diets on the market have 2-10 times the normal amount of fiber, which is potentially irritating to the tender lining of the gastrointestinal tract. If you try one of these foods, make the switch gradually, and be sure to watch closely for too-loose or too-dry stools; either may result.

Brushing your cat and helping with its grooming lowers the chance of it swallowing a lot of hair and will help keep its fur shiny, smooth, and free of tangles. The act of licking themselves helps to untangle and remove loose hair. Their tongues are specifically made for the task. Long-haired cats especially need more protection from hairballs.

Cats shed heavily in a change of season especially from winter to spring and summer. Shedding can also be caused by a lack of adequate diet and care. Most cats adore being gently brushed, so keep a cat brush next to each of your favorite chairs. When kitty jumps in your lap, the brush will be handy.

Cat hairballs can only be predicted once a cat starts retching and vomiting. We can only hope that the cat gets that blockage out without trouble. Hairballs are a common problem with cats simply because it is part of their nature to keep themselves clean. In fact there are very few animals that are so meticulous about keeping themselves clean as a cat. Cat Hairballs are made up of all of the tiny hairs that the cat swallows while grooming.

As already stated, although vomiting may be a sign of hairballs, it may also be a sign of other problems, particularly if your cat doesn't bring up hairballs or if it vomits more than about once a week. A visit to the veterinarian may be in order. Longhaired breeds especially need special attention. During the spring when all cats shed, daily brushing is most important.

If vomiting fails to expel a hairball, this hair can get lodged in the stomach or intestine where larger clumps of hair can build up. It can compact with undigested food in the stomach and gastrointestinal tract. Impactions are serious business, and sometimes must be removed surgically. At the very least, it could compact and cause constipation. Cat hairballs are considered the leading cause of constipation in cats.

We plan to post articles that are informative and helpful to other cat lovers. Having been "owned" by cats for years, we know they can be demanding, but also be very entertaining and fun.

Best House Cat Care Visit our website for products your cat may enjoy http://www.besthousecatcare.com

Selecting a Cat Cage to Fit Your Needs

2008-11-01T11:22:00.006-07:00

By D. Goossens

Like most people who own cats, or to be more correct are OWNED by the cats in the household, we want them to be as safe as possible. Many areas are putting restrictions on cats being allowed to run free about the neighborhood and for good reason. Like any pet allowed to roam without restriction, they can be hurt by traffic, attacked by other animals or just generally get into mischief that can be a real problem and can cause some major expense with your Veterinarian. If your community has a local posting board or newspaper, look and see how many missing or lost pets are posted every day and you will quickly realize how heartbreaking, but preventable this can be.

Cats do like to be outside when possible and should be able to enjoy that freedom just like we humans do. A great way to allow this freedom is using a large cat cage. When people think of a cage, they picture in their mind a small enclosure with the cat pacing back and forth waiting on when it's time to be released from their prison, but it does not have to be this way. Large cat cages allow the cat to play in a protected area without the worry of harm from other animals and these cages keep your pet in a controlled area. Some of these cages have shelves, toys, playgrounds, chairs, items that you would have in your home available for your feline friend while in the cage.

When shopping for a cat cage, I suggest the bigger the better. This gives your pet plenty of room to move around in the cage so they do not feel confined. Pay attention to the quality of the metal used in the cage and the size of the openings in the metal. If the openings are too large, the cat may be able to get it's head through and become trapped. Examine the door opening and the security of the door latch.

Consider a modular cat cage system. These systems use panels which can be added or subtracted to, making the cage very versatile. Remove a few panels and you can move the cage indoors when you are away from home to keep your pet in the area you want. Take the cage outside and add a few more panels and you can create a large playground and not worry about where your pet is. A good quality cat cage must be able to do 2 things, keep your pet in the area you want them to be and protect them from other roaming animals. I have seen fabric cat enclosures which may work well indoors, but I would never consider them for use outdoors as they offer no protection from a wandering neighborhood dog.

I suggest people to visit Cats-on-line which has a great selection of quality cat cages and cat products. These people know pets and can help you find the right cage to suit your needs.

Dealing With Feline Aggression

2008-11-01T11:22:00.005-07:00

By CS Swarens

Cats have a long-lasting attitude for being a little on the snobby side and for being a bit finicky. While this type of behavior may be somewhat normal in many cats, showing signs of aggression is not a behavior that should be tolerated from your cat. Nonetheless, this is the second most common behavioral issue faced by cat owners today. So, if your cat is showing signs of aggression, it is important for you to take steps to put an end to the behavior so you and everyone else in the house can get along nicely.

Reasons for Aggression

There are many reasons for feline aggression, though most aggression is caused by one of four main reasons:

• Dominance

• Fear

• Territory

• Redirection

Understanding the cause of the aggression is the first step toward putting an end to this undesirable behavior. It is also important to remember that some signs of aggression are related to your cat's natural instincts, such as the desire to be left alone and to protect its property.

In nature, cats are solitary animals who hunt alone. Therefore, if food is not plentiful in your household, your cats may show signs of aggression toward one another. But, it is important to note that even those cats that are fed well may exhibit territorial aggression, this is particularly true of those that are kept outdoors.

Cats may also exhibit aggression if they have to live together within a small area, such as if they are contained to a single room. In many cases, cats living in the same household will divide the house up among themselves. For example, one cat may seem to favor a particular windowsill while another may have a spot that it frequently uses on the couch. This is there way of setting up territorial boundaries in order to live together in a more harmonious manner.

Putting an End to Feline Aggression

Sometimes, cats that once got along with each other will suddenly begin exhibiting aggressive behavior. This usually happens when one cat has been away, such as when one has spent time at the veterinarian, and the cats do not recognize each other. Therefore, it is best to slowly reintroduce the cats to one another so the relationship is not irreparably damaged due to lack of recognition.

If you have cats that have simply never gotten along with each other, there are several steps you can take in order to put an end to the behavior. These include:

• Keeping your cats' nails trimmed

• Neutering all of the cats in the household

• Putting bells on your cats so they are easier to locate and so each cat can hear the other one coming

• Rub your cats each day with a towel that has been rubbed on the other cats in the household so they can become familiar with each other's scent

• Setting time aside each day to spend with each of your cats

If these methods don't work, you may have to physically separate your cats within your home. By slowly reintroducing them to each other, you may be able to finally achieve the level of harmony you want in your home.

CS Swarens is the CEO of Find a Pet Online. 800 998-7065

For additional information on dogs, cats, birds, horses, and exotic pets visit the internet's resource for pets for sale.

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Cats Hair Problems and the Importance of Good Grooming

2008-11-01T11:22:00.003-07:00

By Charlene Rennings

Looking at your pet cat, have you ever wondered how they get to have so much hair? The answer is because their follicles are unique - each one can accommodate two to three strands of hair instead of one, compared to humans. The density of the hair makes for a nice coat of fur for these lovely pets. But what happens when we encounter cat hair problems with our beloved pet?

Hair loss in cats is normal at some point. Shedding of hair is necessary to make way for new strands. This usually happens during grooming when the cat licks his fur off to keep it clean by his standards. Losing hair is natural because of the rough tongue surface. For the cats with longer hair, regular grooming is necessary so that their hair won't get entangled. They are also more prone to hair loss.

On a more serious note, excessive hair loss could be worst. Take the cat to the vet for an examination in order to detect the problem early. The vet may be able to diagnose a few problems like ringworms and other such parasites, hormonal imbalances, skin diseases, and other diseases, which could be related to circulation.

To help avoid any of the cause of cat hair problems, it will be best to comb the cat's hair regularly to get rid of the dirt, dust, and skin flakes that reside on the skin surface. This will keep the cat's coat tangle-free and the will help promote better circulation in the skin for healthier hair growth.

Your cat can't tell you when it is sick. It is up to you to learn about the various cat health problems and what you can do about it before it's too late. Visit CatHealthProblems.org

Cats Digestive Problems - The Common Causes

2008-11-01T11:22:00.001-07:00

By Charlene Rennings

Like humans, our little friends at home - our beloved pets, go through occasional digestive problems too. If you're curious about what the usual causes of cat digestive problems are, this article can help out.

There are quite a few causes of digestive problems in cats. These include exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, hair balls, intestinal obstructions, pancreatitis, parasites, and parvovirus.

* Exocrine insufficiency

The pancreas is a small organ that is vital for humans and animals to survive. This organ supplies insulin for sugar absorption and secretes enzymes that aide digestion. When there is insufficient supply of these digestive enzymes, food will be absorbed without going through the proper process. This will result to weight loss, soft or poorly formed stools, and constant hunger. Failure to treat it could lead to worst conditions.

* Hair ball problem

Due to regular grooming rituals, cats always swallow a lot of their own hair. Since hair strands do not really get digested well, they get accumulated in the stomach until they get excreted back up again through the mouth when the cat throws up. The hair ball that does not get thrown up is the problem because it could block the intestines and eventually require surgery. Cats can cough them out naturally but if they show signs of struggle, better go to the vet fast.

* Obstructions in the intestines

Since dogs and cats are not really wise eaters, some indigestible stuffs end up in their stomachs. Gloves, small toys, corncobs, thread or strings, and a lot more wouldn't really get past their digestive tracts, which are relatively smaller in size than their mouths. You'll know when there's a problem when your cat tries to throw up but there's nothing coming out.

* Pancreatitis

The digestive enzymes get spilled into the pancreas and they digest the tissues like they're digesting food.

* Parasites

Hookworms, tapeworms, giardia, and other such parasites live in the digestive tracts. When the number gets out of hand, cats will begin to lose weight, have bloody stools, show fatigue, or become very weak.

These are some of the things to watch out for if you want to make sure you avoid having cat digestive problems.

Your cat can't tell you when it is sick. It is up to you to learn about the various cat health problems and what you can do about it before it's too late. Visit CatHealthProblems.org.

Cat Diabetes - When Too Much Sweetness Can Kill

2008-11-01T11:21:00.002-07:00

By Charlene Rennings

Cat Diabetes occurs when the hormone insulin in cats fails to balance the levels of glucose or blood sugar in the body.

Glucose is the byproduct of foods which flows into the blood stream right after digestion. In normal body setup, insulin is secreted which converts glucose into energy to be used for body activities. In Type 1 diabetes, there is not enough insulin in the body to perform this important glucose conversion. The total failure of the cells to respond at all in the presence of insulin falls in the Type 2 category of diabetes.

A basic sign for cat diabetes would be frequent urination or polyuria. Excessive levels of blood sugar will be passed into the urine, with the kidney reacting by flushing them out through urination. In parallel with polyuria is polydipsia, the cat will feel excessive thirst. Having diabetes under control will similarly regulate this two conditions. Other major symptoms of feline diabetes are weakness of the rear legs, weight loss inspite increased appetite and lethargy.

Older, obese cats and those of the male gender are the group most affected by cat diabetes. Although there is no specific cause to be pinpointed, possible contributing factors can be hormonal imbalance, pancreatic disease, obesity and genetics.

Diabetes in cats can be determined though urine and blood evaluation. A good news for this kind of disorder is that it is treatable. With dedication and good collaboration with an expert veterinarian, your cat will certainly be a warm companion for a long period of time.

Your cat can't tell you when it is sick. It is up to you to learn about the various cat health problems and what you can do about it before it's too late. Visit CatHealthProblems.org.

7 Ways to Know If Your Cat is Suffering From Urinary Tract Infection

2008-11-01T11:21:00.001-07:00

By Ann Matthews

It's unbelievable how clueless some people are when it comes to treating lower urinary tract disease in cats. Mainstream veterinarians are quick to prescribe antibiotics and other strong drugs that suppress symptoms but don't get to the root of the problem. It's about time that people learn how to maintain cat urinary tract health at home through safe, natural methods in order to prevent urinary tract inflammation in cats. Waiting until the last minute to take your cat to the vet can have serious consequences since urinary tract infections can be deadly if they travel up to the kidneys. Here are 7 ways to spot a urinary tract infection in your cat so you can get rid of the infection before it's too late.

1. Is your cat urinating more or less than usual? This can be one of the first signs of urinary tract infection in cats so it's helpful to observe your cat's behavior closely.

2. If your cat has stopped urinating altogether, it is a serious problem in cat urinary tract health. A bladder stone aka urolith can block the urethra and obstruct the flow of urine so it's important to take your cat to the vet for diagnosis if you notice that your cat is not urinating.

3. If there is blood in his urine, your cat is most likely suffering from a urinary tract infection. To check if there are traces of blood in your cat's urine, try to get your cat to pee on a light-colored surface so you can see better.

4. Is your cat drinking more fluid than usual? Thirst due to dehydration can be one of the symptoms of urinary tract infection in cats and for that reason it's important to make sure that you provide your cat with plenty of fresh, clean water to drink.

5. Has your cat lost his joy in eating? Is he acting lethargic? Such changes in behavior are sometimes associated with problems with cat urinary tract health, especially when seen in combination with the other symptoms listed.

6. Licking and grooming of the genitals more frequently and crying while doing so are very likely signs of urinary tract infection in cats.

7. An almost certain sign of problems with cat urinary tract health is when your cat urinates outside of his litter box. Cats do this when it is painful to urinate. They associate the painful urination with the litter box and try to avoid it.

Now that you are armed with this information, you will be more capable of spotting and treating urinary tract infection in cats. It is important to keep in mind however that in order to achieve permanent health and healing, you must implement dietary changes that address any deficiency of vitamins or minerals as well as administer a homeopathic remedy on a regular basis.

Just treating the infection when symptoms start to show is not going to help you get to the root of the problem and prevent recurrent infections. As with treating any diseases, drug treatment may be a quick fix but if you want long-term results, holistic treatment is the most beneficial.

If you want to make sure you are giving your pets the best health care available, please take time to read more about the many natural alternatives at my site: http://www.natural-pet-treatment.com

BIO: Ann Matthews is a long time pet health enthusiast with Pet Alive who has a real passion for the well-being of all pets

Looking For the Right Flea Treatment For Your Cat

2008-10-31T12:54:00.003-07:00

By Damian M Murphy

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

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

What can you do to Help Your Cat

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Flea Treatment

Flea Treatments

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

2008-10-31T12:54:00.001-07:00

By Ann Matthews

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

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

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

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

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

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

If you want to make sure you are giving your pets the best health care available, please take time to read more about the many natural alternatives at my site: http://www.natural-pet-treatment.com

BIO: Ann Matthews is a long time pet health enthusiast with Pet Alive who has a real passion for the well-being of all pets

Feline Health Tips - Three Easy Steps to Happy Cats

2008-10-30T12:40:00.006-07:00

By Tim Whiston

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

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

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

Feline Health Tip #1 Choosing The Right Food

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

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

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

Feline Health Tip #2 Providing A Cat-Friendly Environment

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

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

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

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

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

Feline Health Tip #3 Cat Maintenance

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

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

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

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

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

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

2008-10-30T12:40:00.005-07:00

By Tim Whiston

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fewer Calories In Your Cat's Diet

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

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

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

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

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

Feline Exercise Program

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Using Flower Essences With Cats

2008-10-30T12:40:00.003-07:00

By Nedda Wittels

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Giving Cats Medicine Made Easy

2008-10-30T12:40:00.001-07:00

By Nedda Wittels

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For a step-by-step outline for teaching yourself and your cat to work together when you give medicine, please visit my website, http://www.raysofhealinglight.com and read the article, "Teaching Your Cat to Take Medicine."

Remember, the basic principles are to be patient and relaxed yourself, take your time, encourage your cat to help you, and find a rhythm that works for both of you. Although you may currently dread having to give pills or liquid medicine to your cats, the time may come when doing so will save your feline's life. In just a few short learning and desensitization sessions you can transform a difficult or seemly impossible experience into a relatively pleasant one for both of you.

Rev. Nedda Wittels, M.A., M.S., is a telepathic Animal Communicator and Shamballa Master/Teacher offering private sessions in telepathic communication and in healing for humans and animals. She also offers Spiritual Empowerment Sessions for people awakening to new consciousness. Nedda teaches workshops in telepathic communication with all species and in Shamballa Multidimensional Healing. She can be reached at 860-651-5771 or at http://www.raysofhealinglight.com

10 Ways to Look After Your Cat

2008-10-30T12:39:00.005-07:00

By Martin Davis

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Hand Raising a Kitten - The Story of Ricky Bobby

2008-10-30T12:39:00.003-07:00

By Kaitlin Cooper

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7 Foods That Are Toxic to Cats and Kittens

2008-10-30T12:39:00.001-07:00

By Kaitlin Cooper

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kitten Safety

2008-10-30T12:38:00.004-07:00

By Doris J Canova

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We plan to post articles that are informative and helpful to other cat lovers. Having been "owned" by cats for years, we know they can be demanding, but also be very entertaining and fun.

Best House Cat Care Visit our website for products your cat may enjoy http://www.besthousecatcare.com

Introducing a New Cat Part 2

2008-10-30T12:38:00.003-07:00

By Doris J Canova

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

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

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

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

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

We plan to post articles that are informative and helpful to other cat lovers. Having been "owned" by cats for years, we know they can be demanding, but also be very entertaining and fun.

Best House Cat Care Visit our website for products your cat may enjoy http://www.besthousecatcare.com.

Feline Anxiety and Stress

2008-10-30T12:38:00.001-07:00

By Doris J Canova

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We plan to post articles that are informative and helpful to other cat lovers. Having been "owned" by cats for years, we know they can be demanding, but also be very entertaining and fun.

Best House Cat Care

Visit our website for products your cat may enjoy http://www.besthousecatcare.com.

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

2008-10-28T20:32:00.003-07:00

By Simon Dutton

THIS ALSO APPLIES TO CATS!!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More Mistakes New Cat Owners Shouldn't Make

2008-10-28T20:32:00.001-07:00

By Rebeca Rambal

Allowing a Cat to Roam Free Outdoors

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

Poor Litter Box Maintenance

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

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

A Cat is Not Property

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

Ignoring Them

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

Not Allowing a Cat to Be a Cat

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

Forcing Your Love on Them

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

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

Mistakes New Cat Owners Shouldn't Make

2008-10-28T20:31:00.004-07:00

By Rebeca Rambal

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

Adopting in a Rush

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

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

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

Not Spay or Neuter a New Cat

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

Not Giving Needed Veterinary Treatment

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

First Thing to do is choosing a good veterinarian.

Wrong Cat Food Choices

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

Declawing Without All the Facts

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

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

Your Guide to Cat Urinating Issues

2008-10-28T20:31:00.003-07:00

By Laura Ramirez

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

Reasons for Cat Not Urinating

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

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

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

Preventing Cat Urinating Issues

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2008-10-28T20:31:00.001-07:00

By Laura Ramirez

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

Why Is My Cat Urinating in the House?

To answer this, ask yourself the following questions:

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

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

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

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

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

Feline UTI Remedies For Treatment & Prevention

2008-10-28T20:30:00.006-07:00

By Laura Ramirez

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

First, the symptoms:

Cat UTI Warning Signs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2008-10-28T20:30:00.005-07:00

By Kate Rieger

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

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

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

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

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

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

5) He 'takes off' in a spastic episodes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Finding the Right Cat Health Insurance Plan

2008-10-28T20:30:00.003-07:00

By Joe Hayes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2008-10-28T20:30:00.001-07:00

By Jennifer Akre

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

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

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

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

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

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