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

By Jennifer Akre

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thirst Increase in Cats

By James Gosling

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

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

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

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

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

Some of the more common diseases are listed below.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cat Litter Box Reduced Tracking - A Litter Box Accessory

By Ian Pennington

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

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

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

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

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

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

3 Easy Tips For a Fresher Litter Box

By E. Llamas

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

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

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

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

• Use clumping litter



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

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

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

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

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

• Clean a minimum of 2 times a day



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

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

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

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

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

• Fill the litter pan 3-4" deep

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

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

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

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

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

Why an Automatic Cat Feeder?

By Doris J Canova

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

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

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

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

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

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

Introducing a New Cat Part 1

By Doris J Canova

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cat Urine Odor - 3 Steps That Work to Remove Cat Urine Odor

By Debbie Davis

Removing cat urine odor can sometimes seem impossible, particularly if your cat urinates in a spot that's hard to find or reach. Here are 3 steps to take to remove cat urine odor safely and effectively.

1. Find the spot.

This can be a challenge if your cat urinated while you were away, and the spot has had time to dry and is hard to see. Use a black light to help you locate the offending spot. A black light is best used when it's relatively dark so the urine spots will glow brightly when the light shines on them.

2. Neutralize the area.

There are thousands of products, home recipes, and special formulas out there that claim success with eliminating cat urine. Choose a product that is safe for your cat (and you), and that breaks down and thus neutralizes the urine rather than adding another smell to cover the urine odor.

3. Use an air purifier designed to remove cat urine odor.

Realize that with a cat in the family mistakes will happen, and even if you find and neutralize the spot, while you're completing the process your home still smells like cat urine. If you've inherited your space from another owner who had cats, short of removing the carpet and refinishing wood floors, there may be spots that you will never find, but the odor will persist. An air purifier whose filter is designed to remove cat odor can be an economical solution to keeping your home smelling fresh if and when your cat makes mistakes.

An excellent resource for an air purifier to remove cat urine odor from your air is offered by PurerAir.com-- the Pet Machine Purifier at http://purerair.com/austin_air_pet_machine.html