Understanding Cat Communication and Behavior - Feline Speech

By Stephanie Cooke

Cats communicate with each other and you, their owner, using a wide variety of sounds and body language. With a bit of study and observation, you should be able to work out exactly what she is trying to tell you.

Vocal Communication
Cats are capable of making a wide variety of sounds, ranging from howls and purrs to chirping noises. Here is a quick guide some basic cat sounds and what they mean;

Meowing is the most common sound a cat will make, and can mean any one of a number of things depending on tone, pitch or volume. A soft meow is usually a greeting to her owner or a cat companion. If the meow is more strident in tone, it is usually a demand for something, ie food or attention. The louder and more strident the tone, the more urgent the demand. A repeated, loud meow is a very strong demand and is very difficult to ignore. However, she will sometimes use a soft, higher pitched tone if she is asking more politely.

A scream will indicate that she is in pain, or very distressed. Screeching is used when emotions are running high, such as prior to a fight. And we have all heard the unearthly wailing of two cats trying to intimidate each other prior to conflict- often in the middle of the night!

A purr is used to show contentment, although cats have also been known to purr when injured. It is thought that the vibration purring causes aids the healing process and soothes cats. If she meows whilst she is purring, she is feeling very relaxed and content.

A cat will growl as a warning, for instance if you are playing with her and she wants you to stop. Persistence will usually result in physical attack, so be warned. Hissing is used as a serious warning or intimidation; the cat's next move would almost certainly result in an attack.

A soft chirruping call (known as the chudder) is used to attract attention, or as a gentle greeting. You may see your cat watching birds through the window, and making an odd little 'chattering' sound. This is very common when they are watching prey they cannot reach, and it is not known whether this is meant as a threatening sound or caused by frustration.

Domestic cats tend to vocalise more than cats in the wild, probably because they have learned that this is the best way of attracting human attention. If you observe your cat over a number of weeks, you should become very familiar with her own unique 'vocabulary'.

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The Warning Signs of Older Cat

By Paul Kramer

An annual veterinary checkup is a must for every cat in your home. It allows the vet to monitor your cat's health and alerts her to any potential health issues. During the checkup, your cat will get a complete nose to tail examination and receive updates on vaccinations or medications.

The vet will check his vital organs, inspect him for fleas, worms, or other parasites, examine him for lumps or growths, and check his teeth, weight, and temperature. Sometimes the vet will ask for a stool sample or draw blood for tests. This is a good time for you to ask any questions that you have about your cat's diet or to mention specific concerns that you have about his health.

Veterinary care will vary as your cat grows, matures, and ages. Kittens need to see the vet several times during their first year to get vaccinations and to be spayed or neutered. Because the body changes as cats age, older cats (including seniors and geriatrics) should get a complete physical twice a year.

Many cats start experiencing signs of aging at ten years old. As cats advance in age, their bodily functions slow down, and they undergo a general dulling of the senses. They sleep more, play less, and become more sensitive to temperature changes. Older cats also become more vulnerable to injury and disease because their immune systems are slowing down and becoming less efficient.

With aging, the heart does not pump as well. Circulation decreases, and the cat becomes more sensitive to the cold. The lungs lose their efficiency, making him prone to respiratory infections and other ailments. Kidney and liver function also decline, and there is an increased risk of disease, diabetes, urinary tract problems, and incontinence. Some older cats will have problems using litter box.

Older cats also may develop brittle bones, joint or tendon pain or injury, loss of flexibility and mobility, and loss of muscle tone. They may not be able to jump up and down as they once did. Also, the coat thins out and becomes dull or gray. The claws become brittle and may need to be clipped to avoid becoming snagged on objects. Seniors may lose teeth or develop gum disease. Those with sensitive teeth may have a hard time chewing dry food. As a cat ages, his eardrums thicken, resulting in hearing loss, and he can develop cataracts and lose vision clarity.

Your feline companion can live an average of 15 to 19 years, so take good care of him. You are his best friend, and he is relying on you to make him comfortable in his golden years.

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How the Experts Give Their Cats Vaccinations

By Paul Kramer

It is important to vaccinate your cat against disease. If you own a kitten, ask your vet which shots he needs and when. In general, kittens receive their first series of inoculations when they are approximately eight weeks old. The vet will schedule booster shots three to four weeks after the first series of vaccinations. As the kitten grows, he will need booster shots every year (or every three years, depending on the vaccination and the vet's recommendation).

Talk to your vet about the vaccination process, and ask her to explain each vaccination in detail. Be sure you understand what each type is for and why your kitten needs or does not need it. Always ask questions if you are confused about any aspect of your cat's health care needs.

It is always a good idea to get a medical history from your cat's former owner. This allows you to know all about his previous medical care. You will know when he received his last physical and which vaccinations (if any) he has already had. However, if you adopt a stray and have no medical history for him, tell the vet that your cat needs a complete checkup and all necessary vaccinations. Do not assume that your adopted stray is healthy and disease free.

Based on your cat's lifestyle, if he is an indoor only cat or a single cat, the vet may recommend that you skip some vaccinations because he will not have had any exposure to disease. If you have a multiple cat household, make sure that each one is vaccinated. One sick animal could make your healthy pets seriously ill.

Occasionally, kittens and adults have mild reactions to vaccinations. The symptoms include sneezing, fever, lethargy and loss of appetite. Whenever your cat gets a vaccination, observe him after you bring him home from the vet's office and be alert for signs of a reaction. If he has a reaction or serious side effects such as vomiting or trouble breathing, take him back to the vet at once.

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

How the Experts Find a Veterinarian Part 2

By Paul Kramer

Choose a veterinarian who makes you feel comfortable, takes the time to talk with you, and answers your questions completely. After all, you are entrusting your cat to this professional and paying for the service.

Evaluate the cleanliness of the office, including the exam rooms, and the helpfulness of the staff. If the staff acts impatient with you or other clients or does not want to answer your questions, move on and keep looking.

Some owners prefer to use a vet who specializes in feline medicine and has a cats only practice. Such a vet has a lot of experience with feline medical issues and keeps up to date on the latest studies, procedures, and other cat specific medical information. These vats also have cat sized medical equipment and surgical supplies on hand, which makes the visit much less stressful for your cat. Also, there will not be any barking dogs in the office. If you find a feline only veterinary clinic in your area, it is worth checking out to see if it meets with your approval.

After you have found the vet whom your are going to use, keep her name, address, phone number, office hours, and the directions to the clinic in a convenient place. If you or another family member has to take your cat in for medical attention, all the information will be easily accessible.

During treatment, if the vet recommends a surgical procedure or a remedy that you do not agree with, do not by shy about getting a second opinion. Ask another vet what the alternatives are, and ask for advice on the best course to take. Trust your instincts when it comes to your cat's health care.

If you are dissatisfied with the vet's advice, if it seems questionable, or if a condition shows no sign of improvement, get a second opinion. Your cat will thank you for it.

A healthy diet, annual veterinary checkups, and up to date vaccinations should keep your cat in perfect health.

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

How the Experts Find a Veterinarian Part 1

By Paul Kramer

Your cat or kitten is relying on you to give him a good home and to provide him with the best care possible for his entire life. It is up to you to make sure that he receives all the necessary veterinary checkups and vaccinations. The best way to keep your cat healthy is to find a veterinarian who will help you every step of the way, through each stage of his life.

How do you find a veterinarian? If you have never owned a cat before, do not worry, finding a vet is easy. Ask everyone you know who has a cat which vet they use and how they like the service. After you have gotten several recommendations, call each practice and explain that you are looking for a vet for your cat. Ask the following questions:

- Is it a cat only clinic?

- Does the vet own cats?

- What are the clinic's regular hours? Does it offer night and weekend appointments?

- Is there a vet on call in case of an after hours emergency? (If not, what does the clinic recommend that you do with your pet?)

- What are the fees for office visits and vaccinations?

- What are the payment options?

Based on the answers you receive, you can either schedule an in person meeting with the vet or keep searching. Remember that the professional whom you choose will be vital in maintaining the health of your cat. Take your time and find the right vet, not just any vet.

Once you have narrowed your choices down to two or three candidates, go to each office and talk to the staff, ask for a tour of the facility, and meet the vet (if possible). Bring a list of questions that you have about her experience with cats, and discuss her practice, what veterinary association she belongs to, and if she also practices general animal care. Do not be shy about getting straight answers.

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

First Aid For Cats

By Paul Kramer

If your cat becomes injured or stops breathing, would you know what to do? Every owner should be prepared to assist her pet in the case of an injury or medical emergency. While minor cuts and scrapes can be treated at home, use first aid to keep your cat alive until you can get him to the vet for medical treatment.

Take your feline to the vet immediately if he is hit by a car, poisoned, shot, has any serious burns or bites, is attacked by an animal, or has any of the following:

- a deep cut or wound that will not stop bleeding
- A pus filled wound and a fever
- a temperature over 105 degree Fahrenheit
- an eye injury
- bloody diarrhea or vomit
- broken bones or tail
- paralysis

Your vet can recommend a book devoted to first aid care for cats that covers any possible scenario (such as how to set a broken bone or what to do if your cat is choking), but here are some first aid basics for all pet owners:

- Keep a well stocked first aid kit in an accessible location in your home. The kit should include adhesive tape, gauze pads, cotton balls or swabs, a rectal thermometer, petroleum jelly, mineral oil, topical antibiotic ointment, tweezers, hydrogen peroxide, and a small thick towel.

- Put the name, address, phone number, and directions to the vet's office or 24 hour emergency clinic near the telephone. Make sure that all family members know where it is.

- Learn how to perform CPR and mouth to mouth resuscitation on a cat (and kitten). Ask your vet to do this safely so that you do not accidentally harm your pet.

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

An Obese Cat is Likely to Have Many Health Problems and a Reduced Life Expectancy

By Liz Allan

The number of obese cats is increasing at a fast rate. An obese cat is far more likely to suffer from health problems than a cat that's a healthy weight. This article lists the main health problems that obese cats face, and tells you how you can check if your cat is overweight.

Some of the most common cat health problems that obese cats face are:

Cardiac problems:
The strain on the heart and clogging up of the blood vessels can cause heart failure or a heart attack.

Lung problems:
Extra fat on the chest prevents proper lung expansion, so the cat gets out of breath easily. Lung
infections such as bronchitis are more likely to develop.

Skeletal problems:
The extra weight the cat's skeleton has to carry takes its toll. Stiff joints, back problems and arthritis may eventually develop.

Diabetes:
The cat's body can't cope with all the excessive food, so its blood sugar rises. If this can't be controlled, it may need insulin injections.

Liver problems:
Deposits of fat on the cat's liver can cause liver failure to develop.

Urine problems:
Urinary tract infection is more likely to occur in an obese cat than a healthy one, because an obese cat can't keep his butt clean by washing it - because he can't reach it.

Weakened immune system:
Obese cats are less able to fight off infections than their healthy counterparts.

In addition, giving anesthetics to obese cats is much more risky than giving them to healthy weight cats. Diagnosis of illnesses is also more difficult because the extra fat hinders the vet's examination.

What does all this mean for an obese cat? A reduced quality of life and a shortened life expectancy. For the owner, amongst other things, it means considerably higher vet's bills. If you think your cat may be overweight but you're unsure, look at him from above. You should be able to see a waistline below his ribs. If he's long haired, you may not be able to see it, but you should be able to feel it. Also, you should be able to feel his ribs.

If your cat is overweight, it's in his and your interests to get him back to a healthy size. You should visit your vet in the first instance, who will advise you on the best diet and feeding regime for him.

Liz Allan has 25 years experience of caring for cats. For more information on cat health, visit http://www.cat-behavior-explained.com/cat-health-advice.html. For more information on cats, including advice on dealing with cat behavior problems, visit her website: http://www.cat-behavior-explained.com.