Author: Sustines Laplana
One day I saw a doctor playing a cat with a plastic fish. I went closer and told the doctor, "You have a nice cat, Doc."
The doctor answered, "Oh! Sel… I enjoyed playing my cat with this toy." He showed the plastic fish to me and said, “Yesterday morning, I fed this cat with a real fish. The cat immediately eat the fish alive. In the afternoon, I made this toy smell like a real fish and give it to the cat, but the cat didn’t responded. He only threw a weird look into this toy, and then after a while the cat played it."
I only smiled at him to show my agreement with him.
"Now I realized," the doctor continued, "that cats are really intelligent. We couldn't fool them. They knew if the food we fed them is real or not."
"Yes doc. Cats are really intelligent." I agreed. "They’re even smarter than you Doc. Cat’s didn’t study to learn what’s the real fish and what's not, isn’t it? And you studied several years just to earn the title and profession as a Doctor, but then you didn't noticed that the one you are kneeling and praying to is just an idol."
The doctor blushed and wanted to say something to me, but then I continued, "if I will bring you a piece of wood and told you to kneel down before it and pray, would you do that Doc? I think you would not do it instead you would say, 'am I fool to do it?' But if I will form that wood into Sto. Niño and bring it to you and tell you to kiss it, kneel before it and pray, I think you'll do it sincerely, isn't it?"
Then I got my Bible and said, "You know Doc, it was already written on the Scriptures…"
13 The carpenter measures with a line
and makes an outline with a marker;
he roughs it out with chisels
and marks it with compasses.
He shapes it in the form of man,
of man in all his glory,
that it may dwell in a shrine. (Isaiah 44:13, NIV)
19 No one stops to think,
no one has the knowledge or understanding to say,
"Half of it I used for fuel;
I even baked bread over its coals,
I roasted meat and I ate.
Shall I make a detestable thing from what is left?
Shall I bow down to a block of wood?” (Isaiah 44:19,NIV)
"You see Doc? You’re at the peak of your education but then you never realized that half of that Sto. Nino was used to cook food and to other purposes, and you bow and pray before it." I said.
"Christ’s told us that worshipping God should be done in Spirit and in Truth,
24God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth" (John 4:24, NIV)
not through the images.
I wish you’ve learn a lesson from your cat, Doc."
About The Author
Sustines E. Laplana (SELaplana: http://www.selaplana.com) is the first Pinoy Blogger and EMarketer in Southern Leyte, Philippines who blogs on Technology, Society and Reviews/Promotions of products and owns the Cellphones For Sale blog ( http://cellphones-for-sale.blogspot.com ). Writing articles is his passion. And writing religious articles is his love, so that everyone will learn the truth taught by the Bible.
Cat Training - The Meows And The Purrs
Author: Son Ngo
A Cat 'meows'. Yes it sounds so good but if it meows loudly and continuously, then the same sound becomes irritating. What do you think the reason can be? Is it hungry?
YES and NO
Yes, hungry, it can be, but apart from this there can many other reasons, why it is 'meowing'. The reason may be anything it may be because it is just bored, or can be because it has suffering from some kind of discomfort or has some medical problem.
What should you do it she keeps meowing? Offer her milk...
No! You should not offer her any food when it is incessantly meowing, as it will think that this as a kind of reward and would keep meowing... This will increase its bad behavior and would affect the relationship between you and the cat.
Offer it food, when it stops meowing, this will be registered in its mind, that if it does not meow unnecessarily, it will be rewarded. You will need to get your cat to learn when it is appropriate to meow, when they really need something. You need to see that all the cat needs is always available to it, as far as possible. This would mean your cat will do less meowing.
Cats are usually lazy and would not exercise by themselves. They love to cat nap all day long. You need to set up a playtime and a play area. Keep Strings, ball, catnip items, or simple home made items that your cat will love. See that the items kept are without any sharp edges which might hurt your pet. This will help it get into a good habit of keeping itself occupied while you are busy with something else.
You should spend sometime in a day and preferable keep it same time everyday. A good time would be when you return home from work and you want to relax. It is proved that playing with or just stroking cats helps one relax and keeps blood pressure under control.
Purring is another characteristic of a cat. Purring signifies that the cat is content. Follow this with caution as purring does not always signify that the cat is happy. Cats also purrs if they are ill, sick or dying. Pay close attention to your cat, when it is purring and check for any physical signals which might suggest that it is not feeling well.
If it stops purring, that too signifies that it has some discomfort maybe it may be sick with a virus or something could be making her feel sick. These are signals to suggest you that seek the services of a veterinarian and have your cat examined. Non-purring may also happen when cats get older or maybe the purring is so soft that you are unable to hear them it.
As in humans, emotions play a very important part of a behavior in your cat. Fears, grief, compassion, jealously affect the behavior of your feline friends too.
* As fear is intimating to us so is it for them, it may have a fear of getting hurt or may be afraid of another animal.
* Cat would exhibit grief, when something tragic happens to it like loosing its owner, the same way as we do when we loose our near or dear ones.
* Cats have compassion for other cats.
* Your meowing and purring pet also turns green with jealousy if it has to share its owner, home, toys or food.
It is these emotions, you need to consider, when you are training your cat. It would be disturbed and might resort to excessive meowing and refuse to listen to its master. When they show the signs of being emotional, you need to find what is affecting their behavior.
Are they hurt or are they ill or is it just their bad behavior.
Cats, being emotional, need your attention all the time. You need to observe, if they are satisfied with the location, they are comfortable with other pets or other members of the family and you should always be aware of their actions.
Training a pet is tricky. It is Time and Patience which will help you through. They are to be treated like our children, teach them good behavior and ignore their bad attitude.
Reward your cat for being good. You need to give time to your cat to teach them how to play with toys and other items which you have kept for their playing. Always feed you cat with healthy food; these will ensure good medical condition and happy-content behavior.
Get toys which they would practically like to play with. Do not go in for toys which you would like them to play with.
Love them, Hug them and be kind to them, and you would be able to share the most beautiful relationship.
About The Author
Son Ngo is the owner of http://www.vkhowto.com. The site dedicated to how to get more out of life. For complete and free guide to cat training, please visit http://www.vkhowto.com/a_guide_to_cat_training.
A Cat 'meows'. Yes it sounds so good but if it meows loudly and continuously, then the same sound becomes irritating. What do you think the reason can be? Is it hungry?
YES and NO
Yes, hungry, it can be, but apart from this there can many other reasons, why it is 'meowing'. The reason may be anything it may be because it is just bored, or can be because it has suffering from some kind of discomfort or has some medical problem.
What should you do it she keeps meowing? Offer her milk...
No! You should not offer her any food when it is incessantly meowing, as it will think that this as a kind of reward and would keep meowing... This will increase its bad behavior and would affect the relationship between you and the cat.
Offer it food, when it stops meowing, this will be registered in its mind, that if it does not meow unnecessarily, it will be rewarded. You will need to get your cat to learn when it is appropriate to meow, when they really need something. You need to see that all the cat needs is always available to it, as far as possible. This would mean your cat will do less meowing.
Cats are usually lazy and would not exercise by themselves. They love to cat nap all day long. You need to set up a playtime and a play area. Keep Strings, ball, catnip items, or simple home made items that your cat will love. See that the items kept are without any sharp edges which might hurt your pet. This will help it get into a good habit of keeping itself occupied while you are busy with something else.
You should spend sometime in a day and preferable keep it same time everyday. A good time would be when you return home from work and you want to relax. It is proved that playing with or just stroking cats helps one relax and keeps blood pressure under control.
Purring is another characteristic of a cat. Purring signifies that the cat is content. Follow this with caution as purring does not always signify that the cat is happy. Cats also purrs if they are ill, sick or dying. Pay close attention to your cat, when it is purring and check for any physical signals which might suggest that it is not feeling well.
If it stops purring, that too signifies that it has some discomfort maybe it may be sick with a virus or something could be making her feel sick. These are signals to suggest you that seek the services of a veterinarian and have your cat examined. Non-purring may also happen when cats get older or maybe the purring is so soft that you are unable to hear them it.
As in humans, emotions play a very important part of a behavior in your cat. Fears, grief, compassion, jealously affect the behavior of your feline friends too.
* As fear is intimating to us so is it for them, it may have a fear of getting hurt or may be afraid of another animal.
* Cat would exhibit grief, when something tragic happens to it like loosing its owner, the same way as we do when we loose our near or dear ones.
* Cats have compassion for other cats.
* Your meowing and purring pet also turns green with jealousy if it has to share its owner, home, toys or food.
It is these emotions, you need to consider, when you are training your cat. It would be disturbed and might resort to excessive meowing and refuse to listen to its master. When they show the signs of being emotional, you need to find what is affecting their behavior.
Are they hurt or are they ill or is it just their bad behavior.
Cats, being emotional, need your attention all the time. You need to observe, if they are satisfied with the location, they are comfortable with other pets or other members of the family and you should always be aware of their actions.
Training a pet is tricky. It is Time and Patience which will help you through. They are to be treated like our children, teach them good behavior and ignore their bad attitude.
Reward your cat for being good. You need to give time to your cat to teach them how to play with toys and other items which you have kept for their playing. Always feed you cat with healthy food; these will ensure good medical condition and happy-content behavior.
Get toys which they would practically like to play with. Do not go in for toys which you would like them to play with.
Love them, Hug them and be kind to them, and you would be able to share the most beautiful relationship.
About The Author
Son Ngo is the owner of http://www.vkhowto.com. The site dedicated to how to get more out of life. For complete and free guide to cat training, please visit http://www.vkhowto.com/a_guide_to_cat_training.
Bathing Your Cat
Author: Ron X. King
Anyone who decides to bathe their cat, must be prepared for a long afternoon. Most cats do hate getting wet and they'll probably be very clear about letting you know that they don't like what you're doing. So think it through ahead of time. Get everything you need lined up and be prepared to remain patient, kind and good humored in the face of your cat's wrath.
Before you begin bathing your cat, you will need to gather a few supplies. At the minimum, you will need two absorbent terry cloth towels, a pet safe shampoo, a pet safe conditioner, a sponge, and a sprayer attachment for your sink or tub. If you don't have a sprayer attachment, you should have a pitcher or large cup that you can use to scoop clean water over your cat's body. Ideally, you should also have a non-skid mat to help your cat feel more secure.
If you decide to bathe your cat in the tub, you may have a harder time holding on to him if he becomes frightened. However, it is usually easier to keep him contained if he escapes in a bathroom than in the kitchen.
Place your non-skid mat in the bottom of the sink or tub. Add two to three inches of warm water and gently place your cat in the tub. Talk to him quietly and reassure him. He will most likely settle down within a few seconds. Once he is calm, begin to wet him down. If the sprayer attachment scares him too badly, you may have to pour water over him using your pitcher or cup, instead. Do not pour water on his head. You will clean his face later.
Once your cat is wet enough to shampoo, apply the shampoo with your hand, massaging your cat's fur and talking kindly and calmly to him while you do. Rinsing the shampoo is probably the most difficult part of the bath. It's important you do it thoroughly even if your cat objects, because the residue from the shampoo will irritate his skin.
Now, work a palm sized dollop of conditioner into your cat's coat and then rinse it out. This step is actually optional if the cat has short hair. However, conditioner will not hurt a short haired cat, so, if he is not too upset, you may still want to use it.
Once your cat's body is clean, dampen your sponge and use it to carefully wipe down his face. Pay close attention to the area under his eyes.
The drying stage is the easiest. Wrap your cat in a towel and rub him down. Change towels when the first one is wet. Get your cat as dry as possible. If you have a long-cat, some people suggest a hair dryer, but most cats are afraid of the sound. Use your judgment. If you do use a dryer be careful that it doesn't get too hot for his skin. Tell your kitty he smells wonderful and is going to look so beautiful now that he's clean.
About The Author
Copyright 2007 Ron King. This article may be reprinted if the resource box is left intact and the links live.
For more info, see Cat tips at: http://www.new-cat.com or Cat health at: http://www.new-cat.com/Cat_Health.php. Ron King is a webdeveloper; visit his website on Authoring Articles at http://www.ronxking.com.
Anyone who decides to bathe their cat, must be prepared for a long afternoon. Most cats do hate getting wet and they'll probably be very clear about letting you know that they don't like what you're doing. So think it through ahead of time. Get everything you need lined up and be prepared to remain patient, kind and good humored in the face of your cat's wrath.
Before you begin bathing your cat, you will need to gather a few supplies. At the minimum, you will need two absorbent terry cloth towels, a pet safe shampoo, a pet safe conditioner, a sponge, and a sprayer attachment for your sink or tub. If you don't have a sprayer attachment, you should have a pitcher or large cup that you can use to scoop clean water over your cat's body. Ideally, you should also have a non-skid mat to help your cat feel more secure.
If you decide to bathe your cat in the tub, you may have a harder time holding on to him if he becomes frightened. However, it is usually easier to keep him contained if he escapes in a bathroom than in the kitchen.
Place your non-skid mat in the bottom of the sink or tub. Add two to three inches of warm water and gently place your cat in the tub. Talk to him quietly and reassure him. He will most likely settle down within a few seconds. Once he is calm, begin to wet him down. If the sprayer attachment scares him too badly, you may have to pour water over him using your pitcher or cup, instead. Do not pour water on his head. You will clean his face later.
Once your cat is wet enough to shampoo, apply the shampoo with your hand, massaging your cat's fur and talking kindly and calmly to him while you do. Rinsing the shampoo is probably the most difficult part of the bath. It's important you do it thoroughly even if your cat objects, because the residue from the shampoo will irritate his skin.
Now, work a palm sized dollop of conditioner into your cat's coat and then rinse it out. This step is actually optional if the cat has short hair. However, conditioner will not hurt a short haired cat, so, if he is not too upset, you may still want to use it.
Once your cat's body is clean, dampen your sponge and use it to carefully wipe down his face. Pay close attention to the area under his eyes.
The drying stage is the easiest. Wrap your cat in a towel and rub him down. Change towels when the first one is wet. Get your cat as dry as possible. If you have a long-cat, some people suggest a hair dryer, but most cats are afraid of the sound. Use your judgment. If you do use a dryer be careful that it doesn't get too hot for his skin. Tell your kitty he smells wonderful and is going to look so beautiful now that he's clean.
About The Author
Copyright 2007 Ron King. This article may be reprinted if the resource box is left intact and the links live.
For more info, see Cat tips at: http://www.new-cat.com or Cat health at: http://www.new-cat.com/Cat_Health.php. Ron King is a webdeveloper; visit his website on Authoring Articles at http://www.ronxking.com.
Protect Your Cat Against Sunburn And Skin Cancer.
Author: Kate Tilmouth
We are all used to seeing the many advertisements on our televisions about protecting ourselves and our children from the summer sun, but do we ever think about protecting our pets? Probably not. However cats and dogs can get sun burnt too and with the same terrible consequences that causes, including the possibility of skin cancer.
Cats who are outside a lot during the summer, especially those with light coloured fur are particularly at risk from the effects of the sun and the heat. So before we let our pets outside on a summer’s day we must make sure we provide adequate care for them, just as we would for our children and ourselves.
Areas particularly at risk on your pets are their ears. They often have a much lighter covering of fur and this makes them much more likely to burn in the sun. Add this to the fact that cats will often spend hours laying in the sun and the risks of skin cancer rise dramatically. Often in Mediterranean countries you will often see a lot of cats with both their ears missing. This is because that the region receives a lot of hot sunny weather and skin cancer on cats has become so common that owners will often ask the vet to remove the cats ears to reduce the risk of them catching skin cancer. Another method used is to have the ears tattooed all over in black; this helps to reflect the sun and provides protection.
Of course there are other simpler methods to protect your pet from the effects of the sun. Simply remember when you let your pet out on a hot summers day, make sure you rub a high factor sun cream onto the ears and areas which are not as covered with a thick layer of fur. Some breeds have a very thin covering of fur all over, and it might be safer to keep these breeds inside on very hot sunny days.
Also make sure that you provide plenty of fresh water for your pet which is readily available all through the day. Perhaps have several bowls of water dotted about the garden in a cool spot. Of course making sure that there are plenty of shady places that your pet can keep cool is essential. The affects of heat stroke can come on very fast and if not treated promptly can be fatal. If you suspect that your pet is suffering from heat stroke i.e. is panty very heavily and seems to be wobbly on their legs and disorientated. Cool them down immediately in a bath of cool water and then take them immediately to a vet.
All of the above are quite simple and affective steps, which will protect your pet during the summer months. A little time and thought could save both you and your pet any suffering and will ensure that summertime is enjoyed by every member of your family. More helpful tips for looking after our cat can be found at http://www.our-happy-cat.com
About The Author
Copyright 2007 Kate Tilmouth.
Kate and her partner co-write http://www.our-happy-cat.com a site full of further cat care and cat health topics. As well as being a feline friendly community site for happy cat and a happy owner.
We are all used to seeing the many advertisements on our televisions about protecting ourselves and our children from the summer sun, but do we ever think about protecting our pets? Probably not. However cats and dogs can get sun burnt too and with the same terrible consequences that causes, including the possibility of skin cancer.
Cats who are outside a lot during the summer, especially those with light coloured fur are particularly at risk from the effects of the sun and the heat. So before we let our pets outside on a summer’s day we must make sure we provide adequate care for them, just as we would for our children and ourselves.
Areas particularly at risk on your pets are their ears. They often have a much lighter covering of fur and this makes them much more likely to burn in the sun. Add this to the fact that cats will often spend hours laying in the sun and the risks of skin cancer rise dramatically. Often in Mediterranean countries you will often see a lot of cats with both their ears missing. This is because that the region receives a lot of hot sunny weather and skin cancer on cats has become so common that owners will often ask the vet to remove the cats ears to reduce the risk of them catching skin cancer. Another method used is to have the ears tattooed all over in black; this helps to reflect the sun and provides protection.
Of course there are other simpler methods to protect your pet from the effects of the sun. Simply remember when you let your pet out on a hot summers day, make sure you rub a high factor sun cream onto the ears and areas which are not as covered with a thick layer of fur. Some breeds have a very thin covering of fur all over, and it might be safer to keep these breeds inside on very hot sunny days.
Also make sure that you provide plenty of fresh water for your pet which is readily available all through the day. Perhaps have several bowls of water dotted about the garden in a cool spot. Of course making sure that there are plenty of shady places that your pet can keep cool is essential. The affects of heat stroke can come on very fast and if not treated promptly can be fatal. If you suspect that your pet is suffering from heat stroke i.e. is panty very heavily and seems to be wobbly on their legs and disorientated. Cool them down immediately in a bath of cool water and then take them immediately to a vet.
All of the above are quite simple and affective steps, which will protect your pet during the summer months. A little time and thought could save both you and your pet any suffering and will ensure that summertime is enjoyed by every member of your family. More helpful tips for looking after our cat can be found at http://www.our-happy-cat.com
About The Author
Copyright 2007 Kate Tilmouth.
Kate and her partner co-write http://www.our-happy-cat.com a site full of further cat care and cat health topics. As well as being a feline friendly community site for happy cat and a happy owner.
How To Check And Clean Your Cats Ears
Category: Pets & Animals
An important part of keeping your cat healthly and happy is checking and cleaning their ears. Because the ears are one of the few parts that cats can not reach themselves they need a little help from a loving owner. Keeping your cats ears clean is extremely important because any unremoved dirt, debris, or wax can clog the ears and cause infections. Regular ear cleaning at home augment’s your cats own natural grooming habits.
1. How to check the ears
During petting, casually check your cats ears for discharge, redness, unpleasant smell, swelling, and even lumps. Also observe your cat’s behaviour, if he often scratches or paws at his ears (and sometimes even shakes his head often), then he might be feeling discomfort in the ear area.
If you notice that your cats ears are becoming painful or inflamed, visit a veterinarian as soon as possible. The veterinarian has the equipment to look deep into your cat’s ear canal and give an accurate diagnosis. The veterinarian will determine if allergies, skin conditions, ear mites, bacteria, yeasts, and fungi are causing ear diseases. Seek early treatment, or your cat’s ear condition may become too late to heal.
2. How to clean the ears
Ask your veterinarian for gentle ear cleaning solutions you can use to keep your cats ears clean. These special solutions are effective in removing excess wax, moisture, and debris from your cat’s outer ear canal. Be sure to use only solutions that are specifically formulated for cats. Avoid medicated solutions, unless your veterinarian advises you to use it.
Different solutions are administered differently, but most of them require you to follow these steps.
* You typically only need a few drops of the ear solution. Squeeze the bottle and let a few drops fall on into your cat’s ear canal.
* Start massaging the base of your cats ear gently. You should hear a ‘squelch’ while you do this. Repeat the same procedure with the other ear. After both ears have been cleaned, let your cat shake its head, this loosens the waxes.
NOTE: Stop massaging immediately if your cat feels pain, and then take your cat to the veterinarian if you haven't already done so.
* Wipe the solution by wrapping your forefinger with cotton wool, this should clean off wax and debris. Do this gently though and do not poke in too deep, or you might hurt your cats eardrum.
It is recommended not to use cotton buds, which can injure the ear canals’ sensitive lining.
About The Author
Drew Pilton is the writer of 'The Complete Ragdoll Cat Keepers Handbook, to find out more visit:
http://www.ragdoll-cat-care.com
An important part of keeping your cat healthly and happy is checking and cleaning their ears. Because the ears are one of the few parts that cats can not reach themselves they need a little help from a loving owner. Keeping your cats ears clean is extremely important because any unremoved dirt, debris, or wax can clog the ears and cause infections. Regular ear cleaning at home augment’s your cats own natural grooming habits.
1. How to check the ears
During petting, casually check your cats ears for discharge, redness, unpleasant smell, swelling, and even lumps. Also observe your cat’s behaviour, if he often scratches or paws at his ears (and sometimes even shakes his head often), then he might be feeling discomfort in the ear area.
If you notice that your cats ears are becoming painful or inflamed, visit a veterinarian as soon as possible. The veterinarian has the equipment to look deep into your cat’s ear canal and give an accurate diagnosis. The veterinarian will determine if allergies, skin conditions, ear mites, bacteria, yeasts, and fungi are causing ear diseases. Seek early treatment, or your cat’s ear condition may become too late to heal.
2. How to clean the ears
Ask your veterinarian for gentle ear cleaning solutions you can use to keep your cats ears clean. These special solutions are effective in removing excess wax, moisture, and debris from your cat’s outer ear canal. Be sure to use only solutions that are specifically formulated for cats. Avoid medicated solutions, unless your veterinarian advises you to use it.
Different solutions are administered differently, but most of them require you to follow these steps.
* You typically only need a few drops of the ear solution. Squeeze the bottle and let a few drops fall on into your cat’s ear canal.
* Start massaging the base of your cats ear gently. You should hear a ‘squelch’ while you do this. Repeat the same procedure with the other ear. After both ears have been cleaned, let your cat shake its head, this loosens the waxes.
NOTE: Stop massaging immediately if your cat feels pain, and then take your cat to the veterinarian if you haven't already done so.
* Wipe the solution by wrapping your forefinger with cotton wool, this should clean off wax and debris. Do this gently though and do not poke in too deep, or you might hurt your cats eardrum.
It is recommended not to use cotton buds, which can injure the ear canals’ sensitive lining.
About The Author
Drew Pilton is the writer of 'The Complete Ragdoll Cat Keepers Handbook, to find out more visit:
http://www.ragdoll-cat-care.com
Adult Cats are Fun Too - Adopt An Older Cat
Author: Kate Tilmouth
You’ve finally made the decision to adopt a cat, you’ve dreamt about it for quite some time. Visualising your cute new little kitten playing around the floor and looking up at you with those big baby blues. What could possibly go wrong, after all it’s only a tiny kitten. But have your really thought about how much time, effort and trouble a kitten really is. A kitten is packed full of energy and curiosity and will cry for attention, scratch the furniture, bite and urinate everywhere until it is litter box trained, and will run around the house getting into all sorts of scrapes and trouble. And it’s up to you to look after them 24/7. If you’ve got the time and dedication to look after a kitten, great, but if not, why not think about adopting an adult cat.
A lot of potential adopters seem to think of an adult cat as second best, as if they are defective or worn out like a second hand car. That’s just not the case. Most adult cats have found themselves in animal shelters from no fault of their own. They may have out lived their owner, their owners may have moved to somewhere that doesn’t allow pets, become lost or someone in the family may have become allergic to them. The reasons are far to numerous to list them all. The cats themselves are perfectly healthy animals, bristling with fun and energy and simply looking for a caring loving home.
Adopting an adult cat has many advantages. Remember an older cat has already developed its personality. So you will know what kind of pet they will be and whether or not they will suit your family. Many people go for the cute little kitten; only to find out that they grow into a very shy and non-playful cat that likes to spend all it’s time away from the family. That’s fine if that’s what you want, but too many people decide that this is not for them and returns the cat to the shelter. Rejection is a very harsh punishment for the cat just because you didn’t take the time to think about what sort of cat would be the right pet for your family.
An older cat will also be less demanding of your time than a kitten and will require less supervision, well after the first few weeks anyway. They will be able to spend time alone when you are out of the house without getting into too much trouble and hopefully will already be litter trained.
There are also many benefits for older owners in adopting an adult cat. Adult cats are much calmer and more likely to want to spend some quiet time sitting on your lap for strokes and purring. Studies have shown that cats can have a real health benefit for humans in reducing their stress levels and blood pressure. I can’t image an energetic curious kitten being as good for your stress levels somehow.
Many worry about health problems and vet bills for the older cat. Usually when you are adopting a cat from an animal shelter they will be able to let you know if the cat has any underlining medical conditions and what it is likely to cost. Many will even provide you with free medical treatment for your cat if they over 10 years old as an incentive for more of the older cats to be re-homed.
Cats can live well into their late teens and even early twenties with all the advances in food nutrition and medical treatments. So that 12 year old cat waiting in the animal shelter for a good home is still a good bet and will still be able to provide you with many years of fun and love. Our own cat is now 14 years old and still behaves like a playful youngster and keeps us entertained for hours.
It can be a very rewarding experience to adopt an older cat, not only because of the pleasure they will give you over the years but also in the knowledge that you have provided a loving home for what was probably a very frightened and confused cat, who had no idea why he had lost his family.
About The Author
Kate Tilmouth
You will find more cat health and cat care advice on Kates website
http://www.our-happy-cat.com A feline friendly community full of advice and fun to make sure you have a happy cat and a happy you.
Copyright 2007 Kate Tilmouth
You’ve finally made the decision to adopt a cat, you’ve dreamt about it for quite some time. Visualising your cute new little kitten playing around the floor and looking up at you with those big baby blues. What could possibly go wrong, after all it’s only a tiny kitten. But have your really thought about how much time, effort and trouble a kitten really is. A kitten is packed full of energy and curiosity and will cry for attention, scratch the furniture, bite and urinate everywhere until it is litter box trained, and will run around the house getting into all sorts of scrapes and trouble. And it’s up to you to look after them 24/7. If you’ve got the time and dedication to look after a kitten, great, but if not, why not think about adopting an adult cat.
A lot of potential adopters seem to think of an adult cat as second best, as if they are defective or worn out like a second hand car. That’s just not the case. Most adult cats have found themselves in animal shelters from no fault of their own. They may have out lived their owner, their owners may have moved to somewhere that doesn’t allow pets, become lost or someone in the family may have become allergic to them. The reasons are far to numerous to list them all. The cats themselves are perfectly healthy animals, bristling with fun and energy and simply looking for a caring loving home.
Adopting an adult cat has many advantages. Remember an older cat has already developed its personality. So you will know what kind of pet they will be and whether or not they will suit your family. Many people go for the cute little kitten; only to find out that they grow into a very shy and non-playful cat that likes to spend all it’s time away from the family. That’s fine if that’s what you want, but too many people decide that this is not for them and returns the cat to the shelter. Rejection is a very harsh punishment for the cat just because you didn’t take the time to think about what sort of cat would be the right pet for your family.
An older cat will also be less demanding of your time than a kitten and will require less supervision, well after the first few weeks anyway. They will be able to spend time alone when you are out of the house without getting into too much trouble and hopefully will already be litter trained.
There are also many benefits for older owners in adopting an adult cat. Adult cats are much calmer and more likely to want to spend some quiet time sitting on your lap for strokes and purring. Studies have shown that cats can have a real health benefit for humans in reducing their stress levels and blood pressure. I can’t image an energetic curious kitten being as good for your stress levels somehow.
Many worry about health problems and vet bills for the older cat. Usually when you are adopting a cat from an animal shelter they will be able to let you know if the cat has any underlining medical conditions and what it is likely to cost. Many will even provide you with free medical treatment for your cat if they over 10 years old as an incentive for more of the older cats to be re-homed.
Cats can live well into their late teens and even early twenties with all the advances in food nutrition and medical treatments. So that 12 year old cat waiting in the animal shelter for a good home is still a good bet and will still be able to provide you with many years of fun and love. Our own cat is now 14 years old and still behaves like a playful youngster and keeps us entertained for hours.
It can be a very rewarding experience to adopt an older cat, not only because of the pleasure they will give you over the years but also in the knowledge that you have provided a loving home for what was probably a very frightened and confused cat, who had no idea why he had lost his family.
About The Author
Kate Tilmouth
You will find more cat health and cat care advice on Kates website
http://www.our-happy-cat.com A feline friendly community full of advice and fun to make sure you have a happy cat and a happy you.
Copyright 2007 Kate Tilmouth
Which Of These Cat Breeds Is The Right One For You?
There are many cat breeds out there. If you are like most people, you don’t know much about them. In order to help you to make a choice about breeds, here is some useful information.
Do you want a cat that can entertain himself and not get into mischief? Then don’t consider the Sphynx, the Rex, the British Angora and the Siamese. These cats are energetic and seem to be looking for trouble. For those who are looking for a cat to provide them with entertainment, these are a good choice. The Rex is a silly cat as it will attempt to amuse you.
There are other important features to consider as well. For example, if you want a long haired or a short haired cat. Those who do not have the time to groom the pet daily should not choose a long haired cat. Those who choose a long hair need to realize the commitment in taking care of that coat. If you do not, it can tangle and matt up and need to be shaven. And, it can pose a health risk too.
Vocal cats are often something that many people either consider or want nothing to do with. They can be quite noisy. Many cat owners do not have a problem with them, others realize that communicating with them is necessary and that in some cases, it isn’t the right choice.
Vocal/Noisy Cat Breeds:
Siamese
Burmese
Korat
Quiet Cat Breeds:
American Curl
Scottish Fold
Somali
Attitude is your next determining factor. Some cats enjoy being held and cuddled while others want nothing to do with humans at all. Some cats want the attention while others do not. Choosing which the right one for you is a much is.
Affectionate Breeds are great for children:
Snowshoe
Maine Coon
Ragdoll
Abyssinian
Tonkinese
Himalayan Persian
Reserved Breeds:
Nebelung
Russian Shorthair
Norwegian Forest Cat
Lastly, choose if you would like to go with a kitten or an abandoned older cat. Remember that kittens need to be trained but that adult cats can already be set in their ways. You can find many breeds of kittens to choose from at the local cat show and you can look for them at your local humane society as well. These cats need homes and these organizations are usually full to the brim with them.
I hope that you find this information useful and that it helps you find the perfect cat.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
About the Author: Best Pet Health Information is a resource that brings you information and news, tips and reviews to help your cat stay healthy and happy. http://www.Best-Pet-Health.info
Copyright Best-Pet-Health.info All rights reserved. This article may be reprinted in full so long as the resource box and the live links are included intact.
Do you want a cat that can entertain himself and not get into mischief? Then don’t consider the Sphynx, the Rex, the British Angora and the Siamese. These cats are energetic and seem to be looking for trouble. For those who are looking for a cat to provide them with entertainment, these are a good choice. The Rex is a silly cat as it will attempt to amuse you.
There are other important features to consider as well. For example, if you want a long haired or a short haired cat. Those who do not have the time to groom the pet daily should not choose a long haired cat. Those who choose a long hair need to realize the commitment in taking care of that coat. If you do not, it can tangle and matt up and need to be shaven. And, it can pose a health risk too.
Vocal cats are often something that many people either consider or want nothing to do with. They can be quite noisy. Many cat owners do not have a problem with them, others realize that communicating with them is necessary and that in some cases, it isn’t the right choice.
Vocal/Noisy Cat Breeds:
Siamese
Burmese
Korat
Quiet Cat Breeds:
American Curl
Scottish Fold
Somali
Attitude is your next determining factor. Some cats enjoy being held and cuddled while others want nothing to do with humans at all. Some cats want the attention while others do not. Choosing which the right one for you is a much is.
Affectionate Breeds are great for children:
Snowshoe
Maine Coon
Ragdoll
Abyssinian
Tonkinese
Himalayan Persian
Reserved Breeds:
Nebelung
Russian Shorthair
Norwegian Forest Cat
Lastly, choose if you would like to go with a kitten or an abandoned older cat. Remember that kittens need to be trained but that adult cats can already be set in their ways. You can find many breeds of kittens to choose from at the local cat show and you can look for them at your local humane society as well. These cats need homes and these organizations are usually full to the brim with them.
I hope that you find this information useful and that it helps you find the perfect cat.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
About the Author: Best Pet Health Information is a resource that brings you information and news, tips and reviews to help your cat stay healthy and happy. http://www.Best-Pet-Health.info
Copyright Best-Pet-Health.info All rights reserved. This article may be reprinted in full so long as the resource box and the live links are included intact.
How To Stop Your Cat Scratching And Ruining Your Furniture
It's natural for cats to scratch but often it destroys your good furniture. Thankfully there are some things that you can do to relieve the problem.
Many people watch in sadness as their cat destroys virtually everything that he can get his claws into. You can improve this behavior. To do so, you need to know why he is doing what he is doing.
Why Scratching?
Cats were hunters. They needed those sharp teeth to help them to climb trees and to leap down on their prey. Although your cat is not likely to be pouncing on their dinner anymore, they still instinctively need to sharpen their claws and that is exactly what they are doing on your furniture. The scratching that they do is a way of trimming their nails and it removes the old outer part of the claws. Another reason they are ruining your home is because they know it to be their territory. They release a scent from special glands in their paws which helps them mark the area as theirs. They also do it because they are working the kinks out of their body as well as burning some energy.
Before you head off to have him de clawed, you may want to try out some of the alternative methods of preventing the scratching.
Alternatives
One way is to provide them with scratching pads or posts. There are a wide variety of them available including those that are part of a cat condo. You can even make your own by using two foot high section of a four by four, two foot by two foot piece of heavy plywood and a carpet remnant. When you have one of these, take it and put it right next to his favorite piece of furniture to destroy. Then, gradually move it away from the furniture as he gets accustomed to it.
You can also use a pet repellant spray such as Bitter Apple on the furniture that the pet is clawing at. Take the time to test the spray on a non visible area of the furniture before using it though. Or if you do not want to spray the furniture, then cover the material with aluminum foil or tape that is placed sticky side up. The cat will not like the material and will turn to the scratching post instead.
The Last Resort
Some cats just can’t seem to stop. For these, de-clawing becomes the best option. If your cat stays indoors, you can have their claws removed. There are some risks involved and the procedure can be painful for him. Those who would like to avoid this like to use nail caps instead. These are applied as false nails would be to the cat’s nail.
If your cat is a scratcher, do what you can to stop him before you have him de-clawed. If this becomes the best option though, it may be better than having your furniture torn up!
I hope that some of these simple tips help you save your furniture from cat attack without stopping you cat from enjoying life.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
About the Author: Niall Kennedy is a lifelong pet lover and has worked in several pet sanctuaries. Best Pet Health Information is a resource that brings you information and news, tips and reviews to help you keep your cat happy and healthy. http://www.Best-Pet-Health.info
Copyright Best-Pet-Health.info All rights reserved. This article may be reprinted in full so long as the resource box and the live links are included intact.
Many people watch in sadness as their cat destroys virtually everything that he can get his claws into. You can improve this behavior. To do so, you need to know why he is doing what he is doing.
Why Scratching?
Cats were hunters. They needed those sharp teeth to help them to climb trees and to leap down on their prey. Although your cat is not likely to be pouncing on their dinner anymore, they still instinctively need to sharpen their claws and that is exactly what they are doing on your furniture. The scratching that they do is a way of trimming their nails and it removes the old outer part of the claws. Another reason they are ruining your home is because they know it to be their territory. They release a scent from special glands in their paws which helps them mark the area as theirs. They also do it because they are working the kinks out of their body as well as burning some energy.
Before you head off to have him de clawed, you may want to try out some of the alternative methods of preventing the scratching.
Alternatives
One way is to provide them with scratching pads or posts. There are a wide variety of them available including those that are part of a cat condo. You can even make your own by using two foot high section of a four by four, two foot by two foot piece of heavy plywood and a carpet remnant. When you have one of these, take it and put it right next to his favorite piece of furniture to destroy. Then, gradually move it away from the furniture as he gets accustomed to it.
You can also use a pet repellant spray such as Bitter Apple on the furniture that the pet is clawing at. Take the time to test the spray on a non visible area of the furniture before using it though. Or if you do not want to spray the furniture, then cover the material with aluminum foil or tape that is placed sticky side up. The cat will not like the material and will turn to the scratching post instead.
The Last Resort
Some cats just can’t seem to stop. For these, de-clawing becomes the best option. If your cat stays indoors, you can have their claws removed. There are some risks involved and the procedure can be painful for him. Those who would like to avoid this like to use nail caps instead. These are applied as false nails would be to the cat’s nail.
If your cat is a scratcher, do what you can to stop him before you have him de-clawed. If this becomes the best option though, it may be better than having your furniture torn up!
I hope that some of these simple tips help you save your furniture from cat attack without stopping you cat from enjoying life.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
About the Author: Niall Kennedy is a lifelong pet lover and has worked in several pet sanctuaries. Best Pet Health Information is a resource that brings you information and news, tips and reviews to help you keep your cat happy and healthy. http://www.Best-Pet-Health.info
Copyright Best-Pet-Health.info All rights reserved. This article may be reprinted in full so long as the resource box and the live links are included intact.
How Fast Will Your Cat Will Grow - The Important Stages In A Cat's Life
Just like having a child, it can be incredibly fulfilling bringing a kitten into your family and watching it grow up. It takes only a year for your cute little kitten to mature into a cat. It can seem hard to believe but it will happen fast. Being prepared is the goal here. So what are the key milestones for a young cat?
The First Moments
Kittens are born blind and they are completely dependant on their mother. The first stages will involve learning to eat and then growing. The kitten’s eyes will open and he will want to explore. At four weeks old, he is romping around shakily with his siblings. At this time he can begin to learn to use the litter box and should start to become a social animal. In the wild, the kitten’s mother will start to supplement his diet with dead mice and other small pretty. But, you may want to give him some soft kitten food or some dry food that is softened a little with water.
Six Weeks
He’s now six weeks old and he is more than ready to explore the home. If he’s indoors, he will move from room to room. A feral kitten will follow his mother when she goes to hang out with the other cats. These cats will still receive mice from their mother, but they aren’t dead anymore. Instead, the kitten has to learn to hunt the animal. Those who are eight weeks old will be completely weaned from their mother and are ready to go to a new home.
The Next Months
Through the next several months, the cats will grow really fast. You’ll need to get them in to be vaccinated at this time so that they are healthy and strong. They will begin to learn what they have to do to live with their families and learn which behaviors are okay. You can teach your kitten his name as well as a few simple commands now. If the cat has long hair, make sure to get him used to allowing you to groom him, although the cat’s coat doesn't need to be brushed just yet.
Sometimes, cats will suddenly develop a bad attitude. Believe it or not this is an adolescent stage for them. This happens when the cat goes from being a kitten into being a mature cat. Sounds just like children, right? This will happen around the fifth to six month and may last until the cat reaches a year old. They will still be playful but may get carried away to play too aggressively. If your cat is not neutered at six months of age, he will be mature enough to reproduce now. Neutering the cat will help this stage of his development go more smoothly. At six months, the cat looks the way he will look as an adult even though he may still become larger.
Adulthood
Just like humans, adult cats will continue to go through stages. But, these stages can be dealt with quite easily. And, unlike that mid life crisis you may have, the cat isn’t likely to go out to purchase a sports car at this age!
If you take care of your kitten's health as he grows into an adult cat you will have a fulfilling relationship that will bring both you and the cat great satisfaction.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
About the Author: Niall Kennedy is a lifelong pet lover and has worked in several pet sanctuaries. Best Pet Health Information is a resource that brings you information about many aspects cat health. You will also find great deals for cat medication such as Frontline, Advantage, Revolution and Cosequin. http://www.Best-Pet-Health.info
Copyright Best-Pet-Health.info All rights reserved. This article may be reprinted in full so long as the resource box and the live links are included intact.
The First Moments
Kittens are born blind and they are completely dependant on their mother. The first stages will involve learning to eat and then growing. The kitten’s eyes will open and he will want to explore. At four weeks old, he is romping around shakily with his siblings. At this time he can begin to learn to use the litter box and should start to become a social animal. In the wild, the kitten’s mother will start to supplement his diet with dead mice and other small pretty. But, you may want to give him some soft kitten food or some dry food that is softened a little with water.
Six Weeks
He’s now six weeks old and he is more than ready to explore the home. If he’s indoors, he will move from room to room. A feral kitten will follow his mother when she goes to hang out with the other cats. These cats will still receive mice from their mother, but they aren’t dead anymore. Instead, the kitten has to learn to hunt the animal. Those who are eight weeks old will be completely weaned from their mother and are ready to go to a new home.
The Next Months
Through the next several months, the cats will grow really fast. You’ll need to get them in to be vaccinated at this time so that they are healthy and strong. They will begin to learn what they have to do to live with their families and learn which behaviors are okay. You can teach your kitten his name as well as a few simple commands now. If the cat has long hair, make sure to get him used to allowing you to groom him, although the cat’s coat doesn't need to be brushed just yet.
Sometimes, cats will suddenly develop a bad attitude. Believe it or not this is an adolescent stage for them. This happens when the cat goes from being a kitten into being a mature cat. Sounds just like children, right? This will happen around the fifth to six month and may last until the cat reaches a year old. They will still be playful but may get carried away to play too aggressively. If your cat is not neutered at six months of age, he will be mature enough to reproduce now. Neutering the cat will help this stage of his development go more smoothly. At six months, the cat looks the way he will look as an adult even though he may still become larger.
Adulthood
Just like humans, adult cats will continue to go through stages. But, these stages can be dealt with quite easily. And, unlike that mid life crisis you may have, the cat isn’t likely to go out to purchase a sports car at this age!
If you take care of your kitten's health as he grows into an adult cat you will have a fulfilling relationship that will bring both you and the cat great satisfaction.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
About the Author: Niall Kennedy is a lifelong pet lover and has worked in several pet sanctuaries. Best Pet Health Information is a resource that brings you information about many aspects cat health. You will also find great deals for cat medication such as Frontline, Advantage, Revolution and Cosequin. http://www.Best-Pet-Health.info
Copyright Best-Pet-Health.info All rights reserved. This article may be reprinted in full so long as the resource box and the live links are included intact.
How To Stop Your Cat Scratching - Get Rid Of Those Fleas
You know how annoying it can be when you have an itch, but you can't reach it to give it a scratch? Well, when your cat has fleas it's like your problem, just multiplied a hundred times.
If your cat has fleas or ticks, you need to take action. If they are scratching or have irritated skin, your cats need you to bring this problem under control because it can become a much larger problem if you do not.
Even clean cats can end up with fleas. All it takes is a stray animal to come close enough to the cat. Or, the cat can pick them up outdoors as well. Even just one flea can leave many eggs and cause a full scale attack on your pet.
To stop them before they start, you can use a product such as Frontline or Advantix. These are pre measured liquid treatments that are applied directly to the cat’s skin and coat. When fleas get onto the pet, these products kill them before they can lay eggs. Those who want preventative measures for keeping the cat safe should use these.
For most though, it takes seeing the fleas to get them to start fighting them. If you see tiny black or brown insects on your animal, these are no doubt that your cat is flea infested. If you do see them, realize that the problem is already a big problem.
What you need to do is make sure to check your pet for fleas all the time. You can do this with a flea comb. Carefully comb through the cat’s hair and pay attention to the hair around the cat’s head and his belly. These are the ideal places for fleas to hide including the ears, eyes and the nose. And, they like to burrow in the creases where the cat’s legs and body meet.
When combing your pet, if you find a flea you know they are throughout his body. But, if you end up with a few black or brown specks, this too is a sign that they are hiding somewhere on the pet’s body.
To find them, run your hands over the cat’s body. Look for raised spots on him. If you find one or more, check it closely to see if it has little legs. If so the cat has ticks. You’ll need to ask your vet about having the tick removed as you can not do this yourself without risking the tick’s head staying behind in your pet’s skin.
In order to get them under control, you’ll need to use one of the liquid flea and tick treatments. You can also use flea or tick collars and baths as well. If the fleas are in your house, as they probably are, then you will need to use a powder or spray for the bedding and upholstered furniture too. As a last resort, you can use a flea and tick bomb in your home. But, in this case, the animals will need to stay out of your home for at least 24 hours.
Fleas are a serious concern and you need to keep them from affecting your pet. If your pet has them, also talk to your vet about treatments he can provide as these are professional strengths that can help. Before they make your pet sick, take measures at the first sign of trouble.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
About the Author: Niall Kennedy is a lifelong pet lover and has worked in several pet sanctuaries. Best Pet Health Information is a resource that brings you information about many aspects cat health. You will also find great deals on flea medication for cats such as Frontline, Advantage and Revolution. http://www.Best-Pet-Health.info
Copyright Best-Pet-Health.info All rights reserved. This article may be reprinted in full so long as the resource box and the live links are included intact.
If your cat has fleas or ticks, you need to take action. If they are scratching or have irritated skin, your cats need you to bring this problem under control because it can become a much larger problem if you do not.
Even clean cats can end up with fleas. All it takes is a stray animal to come close enough to the cat. Or, the cat can pick them up outdoors as well. Even just one flea can leave many eggs and cause a full scale attack on your pet.
To stop them before they start, you can use a product such as Frontline or Advantix. These are pre measured liquid treatments that are applied directly to the cat’s skin and coat. When fleas get onto the pet, these products kill them before they can lay eggs. Those who want preventative measures for keeping the cat safe should use these.
For most though, it takes seeing the fleas to get them to start fighting them. If you see tiny black or brown insects on your animal, these are no doubt that your cat is flea infested. If you do see them, realize that the problem is already a big problem.
What you need to do is make sure to check your pet for fleas all the time. You can do this with a flea comb. Carefully comb through the cat’s hair and pay attention to the hair around the cat’s head and his belly. These are the ideal places for fleas to hide including the ears, eyes and the nose. And, they like to burrow in the creases where the cat’s legs and body meet.
When combing your pet, if you find a flea you know they are throughout his body. But, if you end up with a few black or brown specks, this too is a sign that they are hiding somewhere on the pet’s body.
To find them, run your hands over the cat’s body. Look for raised spots on him. If you find one or more, check it closely to see if it has little legs. If so the cat has ticks. You’ll need to ask your vet about having the tick removed as you can not do this yourself without risking the tick’s head staying behind in your pet’s skin.
In order to get them under control, you’ll need to use one of the liquid flea and tick treatments. You can also use flea or tick collars and baths as well. If the fleas are in your house, as they probably are, then you will need to use a powder or spray for the bedding and upholstered furniture too. As a last resort, you can use a flea and tick bomb in your home. But, in this case, the animals will need to stay out of your home for at least 24 hours.
Fleas are a serious concern and you need to keep them from affecting your pet. If your pet has them, also talk to your vet about treatments he can provide as these are professional strengths that can help. Before they make your pet sick, take measures at the first sign of trouble.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
About the Author: Niall Kennedy is a lifelong pet lover and has worked in several pet sanctuaries. Best Pet Health Information is a resource that brings you information about many aspects cat health. You will also find great deals on flea medication for cats such as Frontline, Advantage and Revolution. http://www.Best-Pet-Health.info
Copyright Best-Pet-Health.info All rights reserved. This article may be reprinted in full so long as the resource box and the live links are included intact.
Wisconsin Cat Hunt
A friend of mine in Minnesota asked me recently about the feral cat hunting proposal in Wisconsin and whether feral cats were such a problem here that we needed a special law about it. Feral cats are not 'wild cats', per se, but rather house cats gone wild, that is feline domesticus (I'm pretty sure that's the correct latin designation) or as they're more colloquially known 'barn cats'. Or maybe just homeless cats would be a more fitting designation for these animals.Are they a problem in Wisconsin?
Well, I'd never heard they were before this and frankly most farmers who have problematic barn cats just take care of them without bothering to worry about a hunting license.Cats are - of course - the only domesticated animals that did not start out originally as either a pack or herd animal. They were domesticated by the Egyptians aeons ago for the purpose of taking care of vermin in grain silos. Possibly the pro-cat-hunting lobby here was concerned that these wild house cats were themselves vermin, representing a disease vector, since they tend to still hang around with humans and aren't so clean.
Or there could have been a concern that these feral house cats were now part of the Wisconsin eco-system and represent a new species with nonatural predator and thus could overwhelm its fragile balance. Although, I can think of plenty of animals out here in the woods that would find them a wholesome snack - wolves, hawks, eagles, maybe bears. (oh my)
What I really think is that these hunters figured that these cats are animals, they're out in the woods, so why not hunt them? You need a little target practice between all the other hunting seasons, don't you? And, I don't know this first hand, but I hear that cats are real yummy if you cook them right.
I've never been a hunter myself and will never get exactly what's 'fun' about hunting. There's something atavistic and chemical that must happen in most male brains that seems to be entirely absent in mine. I can understand it from the aspect that it's sort of a coming-of-age male bonding type thing and you're going out and enjoying nature and most often drinking- which I've also heard can be fun. But other than that, it holds no interest for me.
Don't get me wrong. I don't have anything against hunters. I know far too many people that I respect that also hunt. So, even if I don't understand why it's enjoyable for them and doesn't seem like it would be a good time for me, I can still accept this difference of opinion. And I do appreciate the aspect of them getting potential road hazards out of the way (deer, wild turkeys, ducks, etc). Thank you for that, Hunters.
My only real problem is that since I live so far out in the woods, there are certain times of the year that I can't safely go out of my house wearing my favorite antler hat and brown furry suit. Also, there's this rumor that certain twisted multimillionaires in Minnesota have been buying up land in remote areas of the state and then kidnaping famous sports figures and hunting them down as human game. I'd definitely draw the line there.
That's only a rumor, though; If I hear anymore about that, I'll let you know. By the way, the Governor of Wisconsin said that he would veto any bill like this that came his way. I'm not even sure that this was a bill thatwas actually introduced as legislation or just a proposal that was floated around somewhere. It got a lot of national attention and tended to makethe whole state of Wisconsin look real silly, when it was only a few people who thought it was a great idea and I'm not sure why they did.
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About the Author: Steve Sommers new book, Evil Super-Villains Need Love, Too ... and other important wisdom, is available at http://www.lulu.com/content/317958.
His novel, REXROI, is available at http://www.lulu.com/content/306670
Well, I'd never heard they were before this and frankly most farmers who have problematic barn cats just take care of them without bothering to worry about a hunting license.Cats are - of course - the only domesticated animals that did not start out originally as either a pack or herd animal. They were domesticated by the Egyptians aeons ago for the purpose of taking care of vermin in grain silos. Possibly the pro-cat-hunting lobby here was concerned that these wild house cats were themselves vermin, representing a disease vector, since they tend to still hang around with humans and aren't so clean.
Or there could have been a concern that these feral house cats were now part of the Wisconsin eco-system and represent a new species with nonatural predator and thus could overwhelm its fragile balance. Although, I can think of plenty of animals out here in the woods that would find them a wholesome snack - wolves, hawks, eagles, maybe bears. (oh my)
What I really think is that these hunters figured that these cats are animals, they're out in the woods, so why not hunt them? You need a little target practice between all the other hunting seasons, don't you? And, I don't know this first hand, but I hear that cats are real yummy if you cook them right.
I've never been a hunter myself and will never get exactly what's 'fun' about hunting. There's something atavistic and chemical that must happen in most male brains that seems to be entirely absent in mine. I can understand it from the aspect that it's sort of a coming-of-age male bonding type thing and you're going out and enjoying nature and most often drinking- which I've also heard can be fun. But other than that, it holds no interest for me.
Don't get me wrong. I don't have anything against hunters. I know far too many people that I respect that also hunt. So, even if I don't understand why it's enjoyable for them and doesn't seem like it would be a good time for me, I can still accept this difference of opinion. And I do appreciate the aspect of them getting potential road hazards out of the way (deer, wild turkeys, ducks, etc). Thank you for that, Hunters.
My only real problem is that since I live so far out in the woods, there are certain times of the year that I can't safely go out of my house wearing my favorite antler hat and brown furry suit. Also, there's this rumor that certain twisted multimillionaires in Minnesota have been buying up land in remote areas of the state and then kidnaping famous sports figures and hunting them down as human game. I'd definitely draw the line there.
That's only a rumor, though; If I hear anymore about that, I'll let you know. By the way, the Governor of Wisconsin said that he would veto any bill like this that came his way. I'm not even sure that this was a bill thatwas actually introduced as legislation or just a proposal that was floated around somewhere. It got a lot of national attention and tended to makethe whole state of Wisconsin look real silly, when it was only a few people who thought it was a great idea and I'm not sure why they did.
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About the Author: Steve Sommers new book, Evil Super-Villains Need Love, Too ... and other important wisdom, is available at http://www.lulu.com/content/317958.
His novel, REXROI, is available at http://www.lulu.com/content/306670
Siamese Cat The Beloved Cat of Thailand
By : Paulina Jenkins
It is generally believed that the Siamese cat has its origin in Siam - Thailand of modern day. It is a very old domestic breed descended from an albino cat which was a gift given to the King Siam. In Thai fables they were the ones that would protect the royal castles and temples from evil spirits. In the Siamese culture the people believed that the soul of a high ranking person who had died would stay in the cat for a while. The Siamese cat first appeared in the West in mid 1800s.
There are traditional and modern Siamese cats. These cats have a long, slim body with a kinked tail along with a long neck and bright blue eyes which are almond shaped. The original cat has a round head hence it being called the apple head Siamese. However, the modern Siamese cat has a head which is elongated with larger ears and more pronounced features.
The face of the original cat is round and it is also more muscular than the modern Siamese. This breed has a shorthaired coat and a cream color base coat. The Original Siamese has dark brown fur on the face, ears, tail and legs. The body has the Siamese markings and could be white or fawn in color. The kittens when born are cream in color and the markings only develop over the months ahead. On a Siamese cat the markings are found on the paws, ears, tail, muzzle and lower legs.
It is a very demanding and attention seeking breed of cat. The mentality of this breed is very much similar to that of a dog. The Siamese cat is very affectionate, energetic, intelligent, inquisitive and people orientated. It is a breed which is the most vocal and talkative from any other. The Siamese cat constantly talks, and can be very annoying when it is on heat. It is then that the cat will become very loud and sound like a wild lion.
When the Siamese cat feels neglected, it can get very jealous and throws tantrums. The Siamese does not like to be ignored. They want to be with you all the time. The traditional Siamese cat tends to have been more laid back t than the modern Siamese.
The Siamese cat is an active cat that gets bored easily. It is best that you provide an area for your pet to exercise or play. To stay healthy it needs to scratch and sharpen its claws. It is essential to install a cat tree or cat gym with scratching post for your pet. A regular brushing is all that is required to keep the shorthaired coat healthy.
The Siamese cat is a breed that matures early could be as early as 5 months old. They are also very fertile and the average litter size is about six. Ensure your pet is vaccinated if it is allowed to go outdoors. Should you give your cat fruit or greens they have to be boiled first to aid with the digestion. You can take your pet outside for a walk by using a harness and leash to stop it running away.
The Siamese cat remains to be one of the favorite shorthaired breeds in the world. It is a cat only suitable for those people who can give it time, love and attention. It is also not for people that do not like a noisy cat as this breed tends to be constantly noisy. The Siamese cat is very affectionate cat and can be your best friend and loyal companion. This breed has a low maintenance shorthaired coat. The traditional Siamese has a quieter personality and does make a better pet for the family, than that of the modern Siamese.
Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com
About the Author:
About the Author: Paulina Jenkins a great lover of all kitty cats has a website on various cat breeds. An all time favorite is Siamese Cat. You will find useful information on Siamese Cat at this website Get your own completely unique content version of this article.
It is generally believed that the Siamese cat has its origin in Siam - Thailand of modern day. It is a very old domestic breed descended from an albino cat which was a gift given to the King Siam. In Thai fables they were the ones that would protect the royal castles and temples from evil spirits. In the Siamese culture the people believed that the soul of a high ranking person who had died would stay in the cat for a while. The Siamese cat first appeared in the West in mid 1800s.
There are traditional and modern Siamese cats. These cats have a long, slim body with a kinked tail along with a long neck and bright blue eyes which are almond shaped. The original cat has a round head hence it being called the apple head Siamese. However, the modern Siamese cat has a head which is elongated with larger ears and more pronounced features.
The face of the original cat is round and it is also more muscular than the modern Siamese. This breed has a shorthaired coat and a cream color base coat. The Original Siamese has dark brown fur on the face, ears, tail and legs. The body has the Siamese markings and could be white or fawn in color. The kittens when born are cream in color and the markings only develop over the months ahead. On a Siamese cat the markings are found on the paws, ears, tail, muzzle and lower legs.
It is a very demanding and attention seeking breed of cat. The mentality of this breed is very much similar to that of a dog. The Siamese cat is very affectionate, energetic, intelligent, inquisitive and people orientated. It is a breed which is the most vocal and talkative from any other. The Siamese cat constantly talks, and can be very annoying when it is on heat. It is then that the cat will become very loud and sound like a wild lion.
When the Siamese cat feels neglected, it can get very jealous and throws tantrums. The Siamese does not like to be ignored. They want to be with you all the time. The traditional Siamese cat tends to have been more laid back t than the modern Siamese.
The Siamese cat is an active cat that gets bored easily. It is best that you provide an area for your pet to exercise or play. To stay healthy it needs to scratch and sharpen its claws. It is essential to install a cat tree or cat gym with scratching post for your pet. A regular brushing is all that is required to keep the shorthaired coat healthy.
The Siamese cat is a breed that matures early could be as early as 5 months old. They are also very fertile and the average litter size is about six. Ensure your pet is vaccinated if it is allowed to go outdoors. Should you give your cat fruit or greens they have to be boiled first to aid with the digestion. You can take your pet outside for a walk by using a harness and leash to stop it running away.
The Siamese cat remains to be one of the favorite shorthaired breeds in the world. It is a cat only suitable for those people who can give it time, love and attention. It is also not for people that do not like a noisy cat as this breed tends to be constantly noisy. The Siamese cat is very affectionate cat and can be your best friend and loyal companion. This breed has a low maintenance shorthaired coat. The traditional Siamese has a quieter personality and does make a better pet for the family, than that of the modern Siamese.
Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com
About the Author:
About the Author: Paulina Jenkins a great lover of all kitty cats has a website on various cat breeds. An all time favorite is Siamese Cat. You will find useful information on Siamese Cat at this website Get your own completely unique content version of this article.
The Wonders Of A Cat's Whiskers
By : Ron Smarjess
Cats' whiskers are as interesting as a cat itself. The top and bottom rows of cats' whiskers move separately, helping them to use them as wind detectors and as aids in locating the source of odors. Whiskers are also part of a system that allows cats to detect atmospheric weather changes that mean a storm or even an earthquake is headed its way.
Cat's whiskers work like antennae, they help your kitty feel what she cannot see. Although cats see better than humans in the dark, it is a myth that cats have superior night vision. What truly is the case is that their whiskers help to guide them in the dark.
Cats whiskers also help keep a cat balanced. In addition, a cat uses it's whiskers with prey. A cat with a mouse in its mouth will touch the mouse with its whiskers, checking to see if it is safe to put the mouse down without it running away.
On top of all of this, your cat's whiskers speak to you! Cat's say a lot with their whiskers!
Here are a few of their meanings:
1. Drooping Whiskers- Kitty is bored or unhappy, she may even feel sick
2. Twitching Whiskers- Kitty is checking out her surroundings for food or another animal.
3. Whiskers Extended Outward From Mouth And Spread Far Apart- Kitty is happy and calm.
4. Whiskers Pulled Back Tight Along The Face- Kitty is either unhappy or feeling aggressive.
5. Bunched Whiskers Flattened Toward The Face- Kitty is shy or frightened of something.
So the next time kitty is a little bored or needs some more excitement check out your favorite online pet supply store for new cat toys. Your cat will really appreciate it.
Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com
About the Author:
Leigh Adams is an avid cat owner and pet trainer. So if you are looking for a cat lover gift to to show off your purrfect feline, check out love my pet supply for other pet supplies.
Cats' whiskers are as interesting as a cat itself. The top and bottom rows of cats' whiskers move separately, helping them to use them as wind detectors and as aids in locating the source of odors. Whiskers are also part of a system that allows cats to detect atmospheric weather changes that mean a storm or even an earthquake is headed its way.
Cat's whiskers work like antennae, they help your kitty feel what she cannot see. Although cats see better than humans in the dark, it is a myth that cats have superior night vision. What truly is the case is that their whiskers help to guide them in the dark.
Cats whiskers also help keep a cat balanced. In addition, a cat uses it's whiskers with prey. A cat with a mouse in its mouth will touch the mouse with its whiskers, checking to see if it is safe to put the mouse down without it running away.
On top of all of this, your cat's whiskers speak to you! Cat's say a lot with their whiskers!
Here are a few of their meanings:
1. Drooping Whiskers- Kitty is bored or unhappy, she may even feel sick
2. Twitching Whiskers- Kitty is checking out her surroundings for food or another animal.
3. Whiskers Extended Outward From Mouth And Spread Far Apart- Kitty is happy and calm.
4. Whiskers Pulled Back Tight Along The Face- Kitty is either unhappy or feeling aggressive.
5. Bunched Whiskers Flattened Toward The Face- Kitty is shy or frightened of something.
So the next time kitty is a little bored or needs some more excitement check out your favorite online pet supply store for new cat toys. Your cat will really appreciate it.
Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com
About the Author:
Leigh Adams is an avid cat owner and pet trainer. So if you are looking for a cat lover gift to to show off your purrfect feline, check out love my pet supply for other pet supplies.
Learning The Cat Language In 10 Easy Lessons
By : Ron Smarjess
Ever wonder why your cat rubs against your leg? Cats speak to us mainly through body language. Each cat is different, but here are some basic cat body language signs and what they mean:
1. Eyes Half Closed - If you are talking to your cat and she looks back at you squinting her eyes, she is listening to you.
2. Tail Straight Up - This is a sign of a very happy cat.
3. Stiff Quick Upward Flick of the Tail - This is how cats say “hello” to both humans and other cats.
4. Lashing the Tail -You have a mad kitty on your hands!
5. Belly Up - This is a huge compliment from a cat, this means the cat trusts you completely.
6. Fur Standing Straight Up - This is a frightened cat, the fur standing on end is supposed to make the cat look larger and more tough.
7. Rubbing Against an Object - Cats have scent glands in their forehead, mouth and chin, they rub objects with their scent to mark it as theirs.
8. Flattened Ears - This is a sign of an annoyed cat or a frightened cat.
9. “Pawing” or “Kneading” At You- This is a sign of a very content happy kitty.
10. Clawing at Furniture or Cat scratching post- If your cat is de-clawed, she is leaving her scent on the object. If your cat has her claws, she is sharpening her claws. When this behavior is displayed in front of other cats, kitty is showing off and expressing self confidence.
If your cat is in a not so happy mood there are things you can do to snap her out of her funk. The first thing I like to try is giving her favorite cat toy. If this does not work then I will put her on her cat condo and let her get her frustration out. This usually does the trick.
Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com
About the Author:
Leigh Adams is an avid cat owner and pet trainer. So if you are looking for a cat lover gift set to to show off your purrfect feline, check out love my pet supply for other pet supplies.
Ever wonder why your cat rubs against your leg? Cats speak to us mainly through body language. Each cat is different, but here are some basic cat body language signs and what they mean:
1. Eyes Half Closed - If you are talking to your cat and she looks back at you squinting her eyes, she is listening to you.
2. Tail Straight Up - This is a sign of a very happy cat.
3. Stiff Quick Upward Flick of the Tail - This is how cats say “hello” to both humans and other cats.
4. Lashing the Tail -You have a mad kitty on your hands!
5. Belly Up - This is a huge compliment from a cat, this means the cat trusts you completely.
6. Fur Standing Straight Up - This is a frightened cat, the fur standing on end is supposed to make the cat look larger and more tough.
7. Rubbing Against an Object - Cats have scent glands in their forehead, mouth and chin, they rub objects with their scent to mark it as theirs.
8. Flattened Ears - This is a sign of an annoyed cat or a frightened cat.
9. “Pawing” or “Kneading” At You- This is a sign of a very content happy kitty.
10. Clawing at Furniture or Cat scratching post- If your cat is de-clawed, she is leaving her scent on the object. If your cat has her claws, she is sharpening her claws. When this behavior is displayed in front of other cats, kitty is showing off and expressing self confidence.
If your cat is in a not so happy mood there are things you can do to snap her out of her funk. The first thing I like to try is giving her favorite cat toy. If this does not work then I will put her on her cat condo and let her get her frustration out. This usually does the trick.
Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com
About the Author:
Leigh Adams is an avid cat owner and pet trainer. So if you are looking for a cat lover gift set to to show off your purrfect feline, check out love my pet supply for other pet supplies.
Does Your Pet Wear a Cat Flea Collar?
By : Steve Gee
Do you believe that you are doing the best you can for your pet by buying a cat flea collar for her? I certainly do but have you noticed that most cat flea collars don't seem to work? They don't seem to last for a day let alone the three or four months that they claim they will. I've no idea why this is the case but I can suggest some different ways of dealing with the problem.
There is something else that I don't like about cat flea collars, or dog flea collars. They contain poison to kill the fleas. This poison can affect humans by causing irritation or soreness. If these cat collars can do this to humans then they might have a similar effect on your pet and we wouldn't want that would we?
So what else can you do about the fleas? You can try a shampoo that is designed to kill fleas, if your cat will let you that is. Personally I've never met a cat that likes getting wet, they turn into teeth and claw monsters, so trying to give her a shampoo is out of the question. Oh and if you do try this, don't expect your cat to talk to you again for the next few days.
My vet recommends treating cats with a product that stops the fleas reproducing. You need to apply this substance to the back of your cat's neck every 3 months for it to be effective. You have to remember that this does not kill the fleas but it does stop them multiplying so you should see a reduction in fleas after a few months and you can make this happen a lot quicker if you remove the fleas by combing them out.
If you love your cat as much as I love mine then you will find that there is nothing better than a daily use of the flea comb. I find it soothing and a great stress reliever. I think that my cat likes it too even though she will tell me off if I do it for too long. If your cat has a flea problem then you will see them on the comb. The hard part is catching and killing them before they vanish by jumping away. When you catch them you must crush them in between two hard surfaces.
Don't forget to treat your carpets and furniture. Fleas will jump off your cat and live in your carpets and furniture until another animal comes along. It's very important that you spray everything with a suitable anti-flea spray. Make sure that you follow the instructions on the label before you use it.
So if your pet has fleas then consider using some of the remedies that I've mentioned above before you go out and buy a cat flea collar.
Article Source: http://www.articlesearchnet.com
Steve is a professional engineer and cat owner. He loves cats so much that he has devoted a website to them called The Cat Collar
Submitted with Article Distributor.
Do you believe that you are doing the best you can for your pet by buying a cat flea collar for her? I certainly do but have you noticed that most cat flea collars don't seem to work? They don't seem to last for a day let alone the three or four months that they claim they will. I've no idea why this is the case but I can suggest some different ways of dealing with the problem.
There is something else that I don't like about cat flea collars, or dog flea collars. They contain poison to kill the fleas. This poison can affect humans by causing irritation or soreness. If these cat collars can do this to humans then they might have a similar effect on your pet and we wouldn't want that would we?
So what else can you do about the fleas? You can try a shampoo that is designed to kill fleas, if your cat will let you that is. Personally I've never met a cat that likes getting wet, they turn into teeth and claw monsters, so trying to give her a shampoo is out of the question. Oh and if you do try this, don't expect your cat to talk to you again for the next few days.
My vet recommends treating cats with a product that stops the fleas reproducing. You need to apply this substance to the back of your cat's neck every 3 months for it to be effective. You have to remember that this does not kill the fleas but it does stop them multiplying so you should see a reduction in fleas after a few months and you can make this happen a lot quicker if you remove the fleas by combing them out.
If you love your cat as much as I love mine then you will find that there is nothing better than a daily use of the flea comb. I find it soothing and a great stress reliever. I think that my cat likes it too even though she will tell me off if I do it for too long. If your cat has a flea problem then you will see them on the comb. The hard part is catching and killing them before they vanish by jumping away. When you catch them you must crush them in between two hard surfaces.
Don't forget to treat your carpets and furniture. Fleas will jump off your cat and live in your carpets and furniture until another animal comes along. It's very important that you spray everything with a suitable anti-flea spray. Make sure that you follow the instructions on the label before you use it.
So if your pet has fleas then consider using some of the remedies that I've mentioned above before you go out and buy a cat flea collar.
Article Source: http://www.articlesearchnet.com
Steve is a professional engineer and cat owner. He loves cats so much that he has devoted a website to them called The Cat Collar
Submitted with Article Distributor.
Choosing A Cat Leash
By : Ken Charnly
Before we begin to give you additional information on this topic, take a moment to think about how much you already know. Cats are more known to be feisty little creatures that don’t take too well to certain habits compared to its other household pet compatriot, the dog. Such habits for example are wearing a leash and being able to walk around tethered to it.
But leash wearing for cats is becoming more and more commonplace, especially with city dwellers, as it prevents the cat from wandering around and getting lost.
However, given the temperament of cats, the leashes to be used on them need to be both sturdy and as unobtrusive as possible. Below are some tips in choosing the right leash for your cat.
It is very likely that when you think of leash, next thing that comes to mind is a collar. However, a cat collar works differently than a dog collar. Cats have the uncanny ability to wiggle out of a lot of things, including collars. It is recommended that collars for cats should only be used as fashion accessories or identification tags.
If using a leash is your intention, go for a body harness design that wraps around your pet’s torso. This makes it harder for your cat to take off and the tension from the leash is removed from the cat’s neck, which will happen if you choose a collar.
Make sure that the material is durable but comfortable. Nylon is a good choice since it is both strong and pliable. This material is also machine-washable, use the gentle cycle.
Next, the design of the harness should be able to wrap around the body, particularly around the stomach so it will cradle the weight around that area and off the neck and shoulders, which is very uncomfortable for your pet.
However, avoid designs that cover too much of your pet’s body. Although the material may be breathable, it may hamper ventilation making it more difficult for your pet to adjust to the idea of a leash quickly.
Another thing you should consider is the fit around the neck. A good fit is when you are able to comfortably slip two fingers in between the collar area and your cat’s neck. To make sure the leash will hold this particular area should be reinforced with additional stitching.
Investing time and energy for your peace of mind and your pet’s safety is always a good thing. And choosing the right harness and leash for your cat is a smart first step that will make wearing a leash a welcome experience for your pet. If you would like to learn more about this subject, take a look at our wide selection of articles to see if any interests you.
Article Source: http://www.articlesearchnet.com
Ken Charnely is webmaster at two of Internet's popular article directories. For more articles on this topic and for free content for your website visit ArticleTeller.com and ContentWOW.com
Article Submission done by: www.articles-submit.com
Courtesy of:Articleteller.com
Before we begin to give you additional information on this topic, take a moment to think about how much you already know. Cats are more known to be feisty little creatures that don’t take too well to certain habits compared to its other household pet compatriot, the dog. Such habits for example are wearing a leash and being able to walk around tethered to it.
But leash wearing for cats is becoming more and more commonplace, especially with city dwellers, as it prevents the cat from wandering around and getting lost.
However, given the temperament of cats, the leashes to be used on them need to be both sturdy and as unobtrusive as possible. Below are some tips in choosing the right leash for your cat.
It is very likely that when you think of leash, next thing that comes to mind is a collar. However, a cat collar works differently than a dog collar. Cats have the uncanny ability to wiggle out of a lot of things, including collars. It is recommended that collars for cats should only be used as fashion accessories or identification tags.
If using a leash is your intention, go for a body harness design that wraps around your pet’s torso. This makes it harder for your cat to take off and the tension from the leash is removed from the cat’s neck, which will happen if you choose a collar.
Make sure that the material is durable but comfortable. Nylon is a good choice since it is both strong and pliable. This material is also machine-washable, use the gentle cycle.
Next, the design of the harness should be able to wrap around the body, particularly around the stomach so it will cradle the weight around that area and off the neck and shoulders, which is very uncomfortable for your pet.
However, avoid designs that cover too much of your pet’s body. Although the material may be breathable, it may hamper ventilation making it more difficult for your pet to adjust to the idea of a leash quickly.
Another thing you should consider is the fit around the neck. A good fit is when you are able to comfortably slip two fingers in between the collar area and your cat’s neck. To make sure the leash will hold this particular area should be reinforced with additional stitching.
Investing time and energy for your peace of mind and your pet’s safety is always a good thing. And choosing the right harness and leash for your cat is a smart first step that will make wearing a leash a welcome experience for your pet. If you would like to learn more about this subject, take a look at our wide selection of articles to see if any interests you.
Article Source: http://www.articlesearchnet.com
Ken Charnely is webmaster at two of Internet's popular article directories. For more articles on this topic and for free content for your website visit ArticleTeller.com and ContentWOW.com
Article Submission done by: www.articles-submit.com
Courtesy of:Articleteller.com
The Joys of Fostering a Mother Cat and Her Kittens
By Carol Stack
Spring is here, and with it lots of kittens. If you have an animal shelter near you, perhaps you want to consider asking if they send mother cats and kittens to foster homes and opening up your home to foster a family of kittens.
Many shelters have found that sending the mother cat and her kittens to a foster home is a great way to save shelter money and a great way to keep the kittens away from diseases that are found at animal shelters.
Offering your home as a foster home for kittens is a great way to help the animal shelters, and a great way to be involved in helping your community. But there are a few things you need to keep in mind.
First, if you already have cats, be sure to get them vaccinated for the most common cat diseases. The kittens and their mother that you take in could be carrying diseases such as feline leukemia and Feline Infection Peritonitis.
You will also want to make sure your cats do not have anything that could be harmful to the mother and her kittens. Having your cats tested for worms and given a health exam would be helpful in keeping the kittens healthy while they are at your home.
Another thing you want to consider is the responsibility. During the weeks you have them, until they are old enough to be altered and adopted out, you will be responsible for their care. If they get sick, the shelter will probably cover the expense, but you will be the one administering the medicine.
You will also be responsible for taking care of the mother and keeping the kittens safe. With a mother cat and her kittens visiting your home you will not be as free to go away, especially not on any overnight trips.
Those are the difficulties of being a foster home for kittens. What are the benefits? First, the enjoyment you get from helping these little creatures. Many kittens kept at shelters do not survive because of disease. It is not the fault of the shelter, but with all the animals coming and going there is little chance kittens won't get ill. Depending on how weak or strong they are, these diseases can kill them or weaken them for the rest of their life.
Second, you will enjoy watching these kittens as they get old enough to play with each other. Kittens are so cute, and you will get to enjoy them at their cutest until they are old enough to be adopted out (which in some areas is at about three months).
Third, if you want to get one or two kittens (or more) this is a great way to get to know their character before making any decision. And if you do keep any, you will have the pleasure of having known them since they were very tiny, which is a lot of fun.
All these are great reasons to host a homeless cat and her kittens if you are a cat lover.
Filled with information about cat breeds and how to take care of your cat, http://www.catloversportal.com is for cat lovers around the world. Learn about different cat breeds, how to care for your cat, and how to care for your elderly cat.
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
Spring is here, and with it lots of kittens. If you have an animal shelter near you, perhaps you want to consider asking if they send mother cats and kittens to foster homes and opening up your home to foster a family of kittens.
Many shelters have found that sending the mother cat and her kittens to a foster home is a great way to save shelter money and a great way to keep the kittens away from diseases that are found at animal shelters.
Offering your home as a foster home for kittens is a great way to help the animal shelters, and a great way to be involved in helping your community. But there are a few things you need to keep in mind.
First, if you already have cats, be sure to get them vaccinated for the most common cat diseases. The kittens and their mother that you take in could be carrying diseases such as feline leukemia and Feline Infection Peritonitis.
You will also want to make sure your cats do not have anything that could be harmful to the mother and her kittens. Having your cats tested for worms and given a health exam would be helpful in keeping the kittens healthy while they are at your home.
Another thing you want to consider is the responsibility. During the weeks you have them, until they are old enough to be altered and adopted out, you will be responsible for their care. If they get sick, the shelter will probably cover the expense, but you will be the one administering the medicine.
You will also be responsible for taking care of the mother and keeping the kittens safe. With a mother cat and her kittens visiting your home you will not be as free to go away, especially not on any overnight trips.
Those are the difficulties of being a foster home for kittens. What are the benefits? First, the enjoyment you get from helping these little creatures. Many kittens kept at shelters do not survive because of disease. It is not the fault of the shelter, but with all the animals coming and going there is little chance kittens won't get ill. Depending on how weak or strong they are, these diseases can kill them or weaken them for the rest of their life.
Second, you will enjoy watching these kittens as they get old enough to play with each other. Kittens are so cute, and you will get to enjoy them at their cutest until they are old enough to be adopted out (which in some areas is at about three months).
Third, if you want to get one or two kittens (or more) this is a great way to get to know their character before making any decision. And if you do keep any, you will have the pleasure of having known them since they were very tiny, which is a lot of fun.
All these are great reasons to host a homeless cat and her kittens if you are a cat lover.
Filled with information about cat breeds and how to take care of your cat, http://www.catloversportal.com is for cat lovers around the world. Learn about different cat breeds, how to care for your cat, and how to care for your elderly cat.
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
Canine and Feline Senility
By Elyse Grau
Just like us, our cats and dogs grow old. When they do, they have some of the same problems, including senility.
Some dogs may exhibit a number of behavioral changes linked to senility. This condition is now commonly called Canine Cognitive Dysfunction, or Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome. While this syndrome is recognized in dogs, it has not been scientifically established in cats.
There are four main areas where CCD symptoms appear. They are disorientation, interaction with people, activity level and sleep, and housetraining.
Disorientation can be seen as an animal that wanders aimlessly, gets stuck in corners, stands at the wrong side of a door or appears not to recognize people or familiar commands and words.
Interaction with people may change. You may notice more (or less) attention seeking, a reluctance to be petted or touched, or lack of response to names and commands.
Activity level and sleep changes show in such behaviors as sleeping more during the day and less at night, barking for no reason, forgetting meal times, and wandering aimlessly.
Housetraining changes are obvious – urinating in the house, not asking to go outside or forgetting why they are there when they do go out. Incontinence is a physical problem, and should not be confused with forgetting due to senility.
Cats may show some of these same signs, though they are often more subtle. There are also a number of other reasons for behavior changes in both dogs and cats.
Chronic pain can be responsible for behavior changes such as pacing or insommnia. Hyperthyroidism in cats is often a reason for some of the odd behaviors older cats may exhibit.
Other hormonal disorders can also cause changes, especially those involving eating patterns or aggression. Medications can also cause changes in behavior, as can many other diseases and medical conditions.
Cats are also prone to small strokes, which can cause changes such as walking into walls, or appearing disorientated.
A thorough medical exam with blood work will be necessary in order to determine if your pet has a cognitive disorder due to aging.
A loss of hearing or sight can cause a similar syndrome, known as societal disassociative disorder.
You can help your pet through these times by being aware of the causes and not taking it personally or punishing the animal for inappropriate behavior. You can offer extra attention and reassurance.
Try to keep a consistent schedule, and to not make a lot of physical changes in the dog or cat's environment.
The use of flower essences, aromatherapy, herbs and touch therapy can all be helpful in keeping your dog or cat free of anxiety.
Elyse Grau is an herbalist and a long-time pet owner, well-versed in pet nutrition and feeding. She is the author of Pet Health Resource, your web guide to a healthy, happy dog or cat. For more information on this subject, visit: http://www.pethealthresource.com
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
Just like us, our cats and dogs grow old. When they do, they have some of the same problems, including senility.
Some dogs may exhibit a number of behavioral changes linked to senility. This condition is now commonly called Canine Cognitive Dysfunction, or Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome. While this syndrome is recognized in dogs, it has not been scientifically established in cats.
There are four main areas where CCD symptoms appear. They are disorientation, interaction with people, activity level and sleep, and housetraining.
Disorientation can be seen as an animal that wanders aimlessly, gets stuck in corners, stands at the wrong side of a door or appears not to recognize people or familiar commands and words.
Interaction with people may change. You may notice more (or less) attention seeking, a reluctance to be petted or touched, or lack of response to names and commands.
Activity level and sleep changes show in such behaviors as sleeping more during the day and less at night, barking for no reason, forgetting meal times, and wandering aimlessly.
Housetraining changes are obvious – urinating in the house, not asking to go outside or forgetting why they are there when they do go out. Incontinence is a physical problem, and should not be confused with forgetting due to senility.
Cats may show some of these same signs, though they are often more subtle. There are also a number of other reasons for behavior changes in both dogs and cats.
Chronic pain can be responsible for behavior changes such as pacing or insommnia. Hyperthyroidism in cats is often a reason for some of the odd behaviors older cats may exhibit.
Other hormonal disorders can also cause changes, especially those involving eating patterns or aggression. Medications can also cause changes in behavior, as can many other diseases and medical conditions.
Cats are also prone to small strokes, which can cause changes such as walking into walls, or appearing disorientated.
A thorough medical exam with blood work will be necessary in order to determine if your pet has a cognitive disorder due to aging.
A loss of hearing or sight can cause a similar syndrome, known as societal disassociative disorder.
You can help your pet through these times by being aware of the causes and not taking it personally or punishing the animal for inappropriate behavior. You can offer extra attention and reassurance.
Try to keep a consistent schedule, and to not make a lot of physical changes in the dog or cat's environment.
The use of flower essences, aromatherapy, herbs and touch therapy can all be helpful in keeping your dog or cat free of anxiety.
Elyse Grau is an herbalist and a long-time pet owner, well-versed in pet nutrition and feeding. She is the author of Pet Health Resource, your web guide to a healthy, happy dog or cat. For more information on this subject, visit: http://www.pethealthresource.com
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
Why Does My Pet Eat Grass?
By Deena Caruso
Are you concerned when your dog or cat eats grass, then throws up afterwards? You'll probably feel relieved to know that pets eat grass because their bodies need it.
Dogs and cats have been eating grass for a long time. In fact, grass is so popular among dogs that one species, dog grass, is named after them. Dog grass is also known as couch grass and quackweed, and it grows in all but the southern-most states.
You can think of grass as an herbal medicine. It acts as an internal cleanser, expelling excess mucus, bile, and other impurities. It also cleanses the bowels and expels worms. Cereal grasses contain enzymes, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. Grass also contains chlorophyll, which was used for relieving pain, treating infections, ulcers, skin diseases, and anemia prior to the use of antibiotics.
Some pet owners grow grass specifically to give to their pets to prevent or treat diarrhea, anemia, cataracts, fleas, tumors excessive shedding, and other pet health problems. Pets that are fed grass on a regular basis are less likely to crave outdoor grass. So, if you don't feel comfortable with your pet eating the grass in your lawn, you may want to grow your own grass for them to eat.
Try growing rye or barley sprouts. These sprouts are preferred over wheat grass because some animals are sensitive to wheat.
Follow these instructions to grow rye or barley grass. Soak one cup organically grown grain in one quart water for 8 to 10 hours. Then drain the container and leave it on its side in a warm place, away from direct sunlight. A tiny white rootlet will sprout from each grain within 24 to 48 hours. Caution: If you don't see these rootlets, your grain isn't viable and should be thrown away.
Next, spread the sprouting grain on one inch of moist potting soil or top soil in a plastic garden tray. For drainage create a one inch channel around the soil.
For two days, cover the tray. Then uncover it, and water thoroughly. Place the tray in direct sunlight or under grow lights. Keep the soil moist by watering when needed.
When the grass is 6-8" tall, cut it with scissors or a sharp knife. Place grasses in a ziploc bag, along with a damp paper towel. Be sure to expel air from the bag before sealing. Then store the grass in the refrigerator.
When feeding the grass to your pet, cut or mince it into tiny pieces, or place a small amount in a blender or food processor with other foods. To be sure your cat or dog will accept the grass, begin feeding just a fraction of a teaspoon. Increase the amount gradually to approximately one tablespoon per 50 lbs. of body weight.
Once your pet is given the amount of grass his body needs, you probably won't be seeing him eating the grass in your lawn. And you can feel relieved knowing that you're feeding him something that he craves and that his body needs.
Deena Caruso, author, teacher, & distributor of natural pet products Helps pet owners create healthy, happy pets. To receive FREE "Pet Pointers" Newsletter, go to: http://www.healthyfoodforpets.com
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
Are you concerned when your dog or cat eats grass, then throws up afterwards? You'll probably feel relieved to know that pets eat grass because their bodies need it.
Dogs and cats have been eating grass for a long time. In fact, grass is so popular among dogs that one species, dog grass, is named after them. Dog grass is also known as couch grass and quackweed, and it grows in all but the southern-most states.
You can think of grass as an herbal medicine. It acts as an internal cleanser, expelling excess mucus, bile, and other impurities. It also cleanses the bowels and expels worms. Cereal grasses contain enzymes, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. Grass also contains chlorophyll, which was used for relieving pain, treating infections, ulcers, skin diseases, and anemia prior to the use of antibiotics.
Some pet owners grow grass specifically to give to their pets to prevent or treat diarrhea, anemia, cataracts, fleas, tumors excessive shedding, and other pet health problems. Pets that are fed grass on a regular basis are less likely to crave outdoor grass. So, if you don't feel comfortable with your pet eating the grass in your lawn, you may want to grow your own grass for them to eat.
Try growing rye or barley sprouts. These sprouts are preferred over wheat grass because some animals are sensitive to wheat.
Follow these instructions to grow rye or barley grass. Soak one cup organically grown grain in one quart water for 8 to 10 hours. Then drain the container and leave it on its side in a warm place, away from direct sunlight. A tiny white rootlet will sprout from each grain within 24 to 48 hours. Caution: If you don't see these rootlets, your grain isn't viable and should be thrown away.
Next, spread the sprouting grain on one inch of moist potting soil or top soil in a plastic garden tray. For drainage create a one inch channel around the soil.
For two days, cover the tray. Then uncover it, and water thoroughly. Place the tray in direct sunlight or under grow lights. Keep the soil moist by watering when needed.
When the grass is 6-8" tall, cut it with scissors or a sharp knife. Place grasses in a ziploc bag, along with a damp paper towel. Be sure to expel air from the bag before sealing. Then store the grass in the refrigerator.
When feeding the grass to your pet, cut or mince it into tiny pieces, or place a small amount in a blender or food processor with other foods. To be sure your cat or dog will accept the grass, begin feeding just a fraction of a teaspoon. Increase the amount gradually to approximately one tablespoon per 50 lbs. of body weight.
Once your pet is given the amount of grass his body needs, you probably won't be seeing him eating the grass in your lawn. And you can feel relieved knowing that you're feeding him something that he craves and that his body needs.
Deena Caruso, author, teacher, & distributor of natural pet products Helps pet owners create healthy, happy pets. To receive FREE "Pet Pointers" Newsletter, go to: http://www.healthyfoodforpets.com
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
Pet Safety for Your Children
By Angela Rozewski
All children should learn skills for safely dealing with animals. Whether there are pets next door or whether the nearest animal is at a petting zoo, teaching your children how to interpret and respond to an animal's behavior will make life safer and more pleasant for both children and pets.
Friends or neighbors dogs bite most children. Teach your child to ask if a dog is friendly and if it's OK to pet. A dog may not necessarily know a stranger from a friend, so it's always a good idea to ask the owner for an "introduction" to the pet. It is important for your child to learn that a normally friendly dog may bite to defend its food, if it is injured, or if it feels threatened. A dog's ears, eyes, and nose are sensitive so many dogs do not like to be petted on the head. Petting on the neck and chest will likely be well received by a friendly dog. Children should learn to never grab, squeeze, or startle a dog, or try to take away a toy. Tug-of-war encourages aggressive behavior in dogs and a child engaging a dog in such a challenge could be inviting a bite.
Since dogs may bite out of fear or anger, children should be taught to recognize the signs. A whining dog that has his ears flat and tail between his legs is showing signs of fear. A dog, barking or not, with ears forward, teeth bore, and tail wagging high is angry. In both cases the dogs should not be approached. If there is a doubt, the child should leave the dog alone. Children should be taught that running, screaming, or confronting a potentially vicious dog can be very dangerous. If the child is standing, experts advise to "make like a tree" - standing very still with arms at the sides. Don't look in the dog's eyes and don't make noise. If the child is sitting on the ground when the dog approaches, "make like a rock" - curl up, face down with hands over the ears. The dog may approach and sniff the child and then move on. While a low wagging tail on a dog may be an invitation to pet, the same on a cat may mean it's very angry and ready to pounce. Very small children should, in general, be kept away from cats. Your child should also understand that a dog who lies down and rolls over is likely inviting a stomach rub while a cat who does the same may bite and scratch anyone who touches it in the wrong place. Many cats do not like to be picked up. If a small child cannot hold a cat comfortably, it's a recipe for disaster. A squeezed cat will not likely be forgiving of a child's innocent intentions. If you want to introduce your child to a cat, pick a time when the cat is relaxed and napping and allow the child to pet it gently.
All children should learn that wild animals are just that: wild. They are not like cartoon characters and most won't fare better with human intervention in their lives. If you find an injured wild animal, contact the local wildlife resources representative for the address of a wildlife rescue organization in your area. A sick wild animal could have rabies or other disease that could put the health of your whole family at risk. No child or adult should ever pick up a sick wild animal. If you find a sick raccoon, fox, skunk, or other small mammal, contact your county animal shelter to have the animal picked up and tested for rabies.
And finally, make sure to teach the following to your children, straight from the mouth of a pet:
Don't bother me at chow time. Don't pet me if you don't know me. Never tease me. If you do, I might bight. If I do bight, your parent must call the family doctor to look at you. Then call the family veterinarian to look at me.
Always remember: Keep me well, keep me clean, teach me good habits, and especially give me love and understanding.
Angela Rozewski is the founder of Flea Finders at http://www.fleafinders.com- Visit our web site any time to read tips on lost & found pets. we have many things to offer the pet lover. Join our Pet Tips Newsletter while you are there!
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
All children should learn skills for safely dealing with animals. Whether there are pets next door or whether the nearest animal is at a petting zoo, teaching your children how to interpret and respond to an animal's behavior will make life safer and more pleasant for both children and pets.
Friends or neighbors dogs bite most children. Teach your child to ask if a dog is friendly and if it's OK to pet. A dog may not necessarily know a stranger from a friend, so it's always a good idea to ask the owner for an "introduction" to the pet. It is important for your child to learn that a normally friendly dog may bite to defend its food, if it is injured, or if it feels threatened. A dog's ears, eyes, and nose are sensitive so many dogs do not like to be petted on the head. Petting on the neck and chest will likely be well received by a friendly dog. Children should learn to never grab, squeeze, or startle a dog, or try to take away a toy. Tug-of-war encourages aggressive behavior in dogs and a child engaging a dog in such a challenge could be inviting a bite.
Since dogs may bite out of fear or anger, children should be taught to recognize the signs. A whining dog that has his ears flat and tail between his legs is showing signs of fear. A dog, barking or not, with ears forward, teeth bore, and tail wagging high is angry. In both cases the dogs should not be approached. If there is a doubt, the child should leave the dog alone. Children should be taught that running, screaming, or confronting a potentially vicious dog can be very dangerous. If the child is standing, experts advise to "make like a tree" - standing very still with arms at the sides. Don't look in the dog's eyes and don't make noise. If the child is sitting on the ground when the dog approaches, "make like a rock" - curl up, face down with hands over the ears. The dog may approach and sniff the child and then move on. While a low wagging tail on a dog may be an invitation to pet, the same on a cat may mean it's very angry and ready to pounce. Very small children should, in general, be kept away from cats. Your child should also understand that a dog who lies down and rolls over is likely inviting a stomach rub while a cat who does the same may bite and scratch anyone who touches it in the wrong place. Many cats do not like to be picked up. If a small child cannot hold a cat comfortably, it's a recipe for disaster. A squeezed cat will not likely be forgiving of a child's innocent intentions. If you want to introduce your child to a cat, pick a time when the cat is relaxed and napping and allow the child to pet it gently.
All children should learn that wild animals are just that: wild. They are not like cartoon characters and most won't fare better with human intervention in their lives. If you find an injured wild animal, contact the local wildlife resources representative for the address of a wildlife rescue organization in your area. A sick wild animal could have rabies or other disease that could put the health of your whole family at risk. No child or adult should ever pick up a sick wild animal. If you find a sick raccoon, fox, skunk, or other small mammal, contact your county animal shelter to have the animal picked up and tested for rabies.
And finally, make sure to teach the following to your children, straight from the mouth of a pet:
Don't bother me at chow time. Don't pet me if you don't know me. Never tease me. If you do, I might bight. If I do bight, your parent must call the family doctor to look at you. Then call the family veterinarian to look at me.
Always remember: Keep me well, keep me clean, teach me good habits, and especially give me love and understanding.
Angela Rozewski is the founder of Flea Finders at http://www.fleafinders.com- Visit our web site any time to read tips on lost & found pets. we have many things to offer the pet lover. Join our Pet Tips Newsletter while you are there!
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
Ten Things I Learned from My Cat
By Rinatta Paries
1. Always be ready to play. Know how to recognize the playful look in the person you love, and immediately start playing.
2. When you are happy to see someone, stretch your arms up to him or her and ask to be picked up.
3. If the person you love forgets to feed you dinner, don't take it personally. Instead, run to sit by your plate and look hungry.
4. Talk to the one you love, incessantly and constantly. It makes him or her feel loved, appreciated and important.
5. Don't be afraid to ask to be touched. Just falling down and looking cute works well. Otherwise, rubbing up against the person you love will do the trick.
6. If you keep asking for attention and don't get any, try disappearing suddenly. Then, don't come back for a little while, even if you are called. Your loved one will think twice before ignoring you next time.
7. Show your love and adoration by bringing presents. Make sure to stand by your present and get fully appreciated.
8. Purr when the person you love is anywhere near you. It will encourage him or her to get closer to you while feeling appreciated.
9. Encourage the person you love to take naps with you. When you take naps together, make sure to cuddle up under the blanket and get as close as you can.
10. Always comfort the person you love, regardless of whether he or she needs emotional or physical comfort. Cuddling, purring, and being sat on are sure cures for almost anything.
Rinatta Paries. Do you know how to attract your ideal mate? Do you know how to build a fulfilling relationship, or how to reinvent yours to meet your needs? Relationship Coach Rinatta Paries can teach you the skills and techniques to attract and sustain long-term, healthy partnerships. Visit www.WhatItTakes.com where you'll find quizzes, classes, advice and a free weekly ezine. Become a "true love magnet(tm)!"
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
1. Always be ready to play. Know how to recognize the playful look in the person you love, and immediately start playing.
2. When you are happy to see someone, stretch your arms up to him or her and ask to be picked up.
3. If the person you love forgets to feed you dinner, don't take it personally. Instead, run to sit by your plate and look hungry.
4. Talk to the one you love, incessantly and constantly. It makes him or her feel loved, appreciated and important.
5. Don't be afraid to ask to be touched. Just falling down and looking cute works well. Otherwise, rubbing up against the person you love will do the trick.
6. If you keep asking for attention and don't get any, try disappearing suddenly. Then, don't come back for a little while, even if you are called. Your loved one will think twice before ignoring you next time.
7. Show your love and adoration by bringing presents. Make sure to stand by your present and get fully appreciated.
8. Purr when the person you love is anywhere near you. It will encourage him or her to get closer to you while feeling appreciated.
9. Encourage the person you love to take naps with you. When you take naps together, make sure to cuddle up under the blanket and get as close as you can.
10. Always comfort the person you love, regardless of whether he or she needs emotional or physical comfort. Cuddling, purring, and being sat on are sure cures for almost anything.
Rinatta Paries. Do you know how to attract your ideal mate? Do you know how to build a fulfilling relationship, or how to reinvent yours to meet your needs? Relationship Coach Rinatta Paries can teach you the skills and techniques to attract and sustain long-term, healthy partnerships. Visit www.WhatItTakes.com where you'll find quizzes, classes, advice and a free weekly ezine. Become a "true love magnet(tm)!"
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
A Black Cat is Just a Cat
By John Young
When my old cat died, I decided to pick one out of the Humane Society. They had named the first cat I saw “Batman”, and I fell in love with him on sight.
But when I brought him home, I discovered he didn’t quite have the courage of the comic book hero. I made some mistakes which resulted in a month long struggle to coax him out of his hiding place to join the family.
I renamed him Bear, and he is wonderful cat, but my guests seem a little uncomfortable when he comes into the room. After all, he is completely black.
He is a black cat and some people are afraid of Black Cats…
The Black Cat in History
Historically, black cats have been associated with omens, bad luck and, well...evil.
The poor unfortunate kitties have been used in rituals, and were supposedly the "familiars" of witches. Anarchism has used the symbol of the black cat, as has Wicca, the modern day expression of Witchcraft. Superstition has associated bad luck with having a black cat cross your path.
All-in-all, the black cat has been getting some really bad press for centuries, and all of that is not easily overcome in just a few short lines of this article.
Scaredy Cat
A very highly sensitive cat, our new black Bear was far more scared of us than we were of him, and we made a number of mistakes in the first hour of his introduction that practically destroyed our chances for introducing him to our home.
The process of first finding Bear where he had hidden in the house and gradually coaxing him out of his hiding place to join the family was long and agonizing. It took over a month, and I had almost despaired that we would ever acclimate him.
Patience won out, though…
Superstition Dispelled
Since then, Bear has been rolling around on my lap enjoying his daily pettings, sleeping in my bed, yowling at the females he sees from his perch in the kitchen window and just generally bringing a lot of joy to our lives.
He is here to dispel the notion that a black cat means bad luck. He is one of the sweetest cats you'll ever meet, and there's absolutely *nothing* scary about him. And I can tell you for a fact that no bad luck is connected with Bear. He's crossed my path innumerable times, and so far I haven't experienced anything one might think of as "bad luck".
I have to say, though, that on Halloween night he seems to be scared of his own black shadow. But I try to keep him calmed down and happy to be where he is...in my lap purring as loud as he can!
John Young is a writer and cat lover who has owned one cat or another ever since he was four (or, maybe they owned him). His book "Your New Cat's First 24 Hours", http://www.yourcatsecrets.com , is written for new and veteran cat owners who want to smoothly introduce a new cat to their household and care for her thereafter.
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
When my old cat died, I decided to pick one out of the Humane Society. They had named the first cat I saw “Batman”, and I fell in love with him on sight.
But when I brought him home, I discovered he didn’t quite have the courage of the comic book hero. I made some mistakes which resulted in a month long struggle to coax him out of his hiding place to join the family.
I renamed him Bear, and he is wonderful cat, but my guests seem a little uncomfortable when he comes into the room. After all, he is completely black.
He is a black cat and some people are afraid of Black Cats…
The Black Cat in History
Historically, black cats have been associated with omens, bad luck and, well...evil.
The poor unfortunate kitties have been used in rituals, and were supposedly the "familiars" of witches. Anarchism has used the symbol of the black cat, as has Wicca, the modern day expression of Witchcraft. Superstition has associated bad luck with having a black cat cross your path.
All-in-all, the black cat has been getting some really bad press for centuries, and all of that is not easily overcome in just a few short lines of this article.
Scaredy Cat
A very highly sensitive cat, our new black Bear was far more scared of us than we were of him, and we made a number of mistakes in the first hour of his introduction that practically destroyed our chances for introducing him to our home.
The process of first finding Bear where he had hidden in the house and gradually coaxing him out of his hiding place to join the family was long and agonizing. It took over a month, and I had almost despaired that we would ever acclimate him.
Patience won out, though…
Superstition Dispelled
Since then, Bear has been rolling around on my lap enjoying his daily pettings, sleeping in my bed, yowling at the females he sees from his perch in the kitchen window and just generally bringing a lot of joy to our lives.
He is here to dispel the notion that a black cat means bad luck. He is one of the sweetest cats you'll ever meet, and there's absolutely *nothing* scary about him. And I can tell you for a fact that no bad luck is connected with Bear. He's crossed my path innumerable times, and so far I haven't experienced anything one might think of as "bad luck".
I have to say, though, that on Halloween night he seems to be scared of his own black shadow. But I try to keep him calmed down and happy to be where he is...in my lap purring as loud as he can!
John Young is a writer and cat lover who has owned one cat or another ever since he was four (or, maybe they owned him). His book "Your New Cat's First 24 Hours", http://www.yourcatsecrets.com , is written for new and veteran cat owners who want to smoothly introduce a new cat to their household and care for her thereafter.
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
Does You Cat Have Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD)?
By Mike Taylor
FLUTD, also known as feline urologic syndrome or FUS, is a common term that applies to an assortment of ailments affecting a cat’s lower urinary tract such as cystitis, infection of the urinary tract, kidney stones and the formation of crystals in the urinary tract.
More prevalent among male cats over 12 months old FLUTD is a problem that can keep cropping up in some cats over their lifetime and is usually very painful and potentially lethal if not treated quickly. If you think your cat has FLUTD take them to the Vet as quickly as possible because in some extreme cases death can occur within a day.
FLUTD - Potential Causes
Since FLUTD comprises several different diseases it can be hard to isolate the exact causes but here are some commonly accepted reasons your cat can contract FLUTD:
Most cats usually don’t drink very much water and because of this they may not urinate enough to keep their urinary tract cleansed.
Overweight cats usually are not very active and tend to make fewer visits to the litter box so their urine sits in their bladder longer and crystals can form or infections can develop.
Some evidence suggests that having your cat neutered might make it easier for them to get FLUTD.
Cats that are always indoors and use a litter box have a greater chance of having urinary tract problems as opposed to cats that spend a lot of time outdoors.
Your cat can become dehydrated if you use a dry cat food but you should know that many cat experts recommend dry cat food over moist in most cases.
Even though it might be hard to believe stress can play a major role in a cat’s life and this is also felt to be a trigger for FLUTD.
FLUTD - Symptoms
It is important to make note of any change in your cat’s daily behavior as this can be a clear sign a urinary tract problem is developing:
Is your cat urinating more frequently?
Are there any traces of blood in your cat’s urine? If so take them to the Vet immediately.
Does your cat strain while urinating or is unable to go at all? Do not mistake this for constipation which is the inability to have a bowel movement.
Is your cat urinating outside the litter box or spraying doorways? This might indicate FLUTD but can also be attributed to behavioral problems.
Does your cat have a sudden loss of appetite?
FLUTD - Treatments
If you think your cat might be having some type of urinary problem your Vet can do a simple urine test to check for Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease.
The good news is that FLUTD is easily treated through medicine and changes in your cat’s diet. Be sure and follow your Vet’s advice and your cat will be healthy in no time.
FLUTD – Prevention
FLUTD related diseases typically go away in a week or two but you do not want to take the chance and wait to see if your cat gets better because doing so can be risky to your cat’s long term health.
You need to make sure your cat is drinking enough fresh water and using a water fountain designed just for this purpose might help.
If you think stress is the problem you need to find out what the stressors are and eliminate them.
Follow your Vet’s advice to the letter.
If there is one central theme to this article it is that you do not want to take risks with your cat’s health. If you think they have FLUTD you need to get them to your Vet quickly so a professional diagnosis can be made and the appropriate treatment prescribed. Do not disregard your cat’s sickness thinking it will go away as FLUTD can not only be very painful but lethal as well.
For information on how to remove super cat urine stains visit us at http://www.cat-urine-remover.com
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
FLUTD, also known as feline urologic syndrome or FUS, is a common term that applies to an assortment of ailments affecting a cat’s lower urinary tract such as cystitis, infection of the urinary tract, kidney stones and the formation of crystals in the urinary tract.
More prevalent among male cats over 12 months old FLUTD is a problem that can keep cropping up in some cats over their lifetime and is usually very painful and potentially lethal if not treated quickly. If you think your cat has FLUTD take them to the Vet as quickly as possible because in some extreme cases death can occur within a day.
FLUTD - Potential Causes
Since FLUTD comprises several different diseases it can be hard to isolate the exact causes but here are some commonly accepted reasons your cat can contract FLUTD:
Most cats usually don’t drink very much water and because of this they may not urinate enough to keep their urinary tract cleansed.
Overweight cats usually are not very active and tend to make fewer visits to the litter box so their urine sits in their bladder longer and crystals can form or infections can develop.
Some evidence suggests that having your cat neutered might make it easier for them to get FLUTD.
Cats that are always indoors and use a litter box have a greater chance of having urinary tract problems as opposed to cats that spend a lot of time outdoors.
Your cat can become dehydrated if you use a dry cat food but you should know that many cat experts recommend dry cat food over moist in most cases.
Even though it might be hard to believe stress can play a major role in a cat’s life and this is also felt to be a trigger for FLUTD.
FLUTD - Symptoms
It is important to make note of any change in your cat’s daily behavior as this can be a clear sign a urinary tract problem is developing:
Is your cat urinating more frequently?
Are there any traces of blood in your cat’s urine? If so take them to the Vet immediately.
Does your cat strain while urinating or is unable to go at all? Do not mistake this for constipation which is the inability to have a bowel movement.
Is your cat urinating outside the litter box or spraying doorways? This might indicate FLUTD but can also be attributed to behavioral problems.
Does your cat have a sudden loss of appetite?
FLUTD - Treatments
If you think your cat might be having some type of urinary problem your Vet can do a simple urine test to check for Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease.
The good news is that FLUTD is easily treated through medicine and changes in your cat’s diet. Be sure and follow your Vet’s advice and your cat will be healthy in no time.
FLUTD – Prevention
FLUTD related diseases typically go away in a week or two but you do not want to take the chance and wait to see if your cat gets better because doing so can be risky to your cat’s long term health.
You need to make sure your cat is drinking enough fresh water and using a water fountain designed just for this purpose might help.
If you think stress is the problem you need to find out what the stressors are and eliminate them.
Follow your Vet’s advice to the letter.
If there is one central theme to this article it is that you do not want to take risks with your cat’s health. If you think they have FLUTD you need to get them to your Vet quickly so a professional diagnosis can be made and the appropriate treatment prescribed. Do not disregard your cat’s sickness thinking it will go away as FLUTD can not only be very painful but lethal as well.
For information on how to remove super cat urine stains visit us at http://www.cat-urine-remover.com
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
Become your feline friend's best buddy with a great cat pet toy !
By Marc Deschamps
Providing your feline friend with the right cat pet toy will make cat ownership more rewarding.
Many cats spend their days in home environments that are often lonely, and non-stimulating.
Without an outlet for pent-up mental and physical energy, some cats can become stressed, or even destructive. Luckily, you can help minimize these tendencies by enriching your cat’s environment with stimulating, fun toys designed to appeal to their outgoing, playful natures.
Before purchasing any cat pet toy be sure to first “pet-proof” your home by picking up or concealing objects that, if eaten, could cause medical problems.
These include:
-Paper clips, pins, or staples -Rubber bands, string, or shoelaces -Pens or pencils -Wires or power cords -All children’s toys -Socks and pantyhose -Jewelry -Hardware -Human foods or medications
In addition, be sure to remove any items of clothing (including shoes, belts and other delicious leather goods) that your cat might find tasty.
Though cats tend to amuse themselves better than do their canine cousins, they too need some regular mental and physical stimulation to stay happy. Also, without an outlet for their strong predatory instincts, most cats will become stressed or even destructive; it is essential, then, to provide your cat with a stimulating home environment that includes the cat toys.
Cats are not quite as destructive as dogs with regard to playthings. Nevertheless, care should be taken that a non-supervised cat pet toy not contain any easily-swallowed pieces such as buttons, feathers, strings or squeakers.
Often, cat owners find that their feline friend will treat simple household items as treasured toys. Balled-up wads of newspaper, cardboard boxes stuffed with shredded paper, ping-pong balls, or even the cardboard cores of paper towel rolls can often occupy hours of a cat’s time.
The following store-bought toys can also provide your cat with hours of fun. They include:
-Plastic or hard rubber balls, with or without noisemakers inside -Small, soft, stuffed animals, with or without catnip inside -Wind-up or battery-operated toys -Teaser wands or laser pens (operated by you)
Be sure to rotate your cat pet toy (s) on a regular basis, to keep interest levels high. Also, keep them clean.
Don’t simply let your feline friend play with a cat pet toy all on its own; instead, participate in the action. Doing so will help bond you to your cat, and make playtime all the more fun. Whether it’s a game of fetch or a session with the teaser toy, your cat will soon come to see you as its greatest play buddy.
Providing your feline friend with a fun cat pet toy will help minimize problem behaviors and make cat ownership more rewarding.
Marc Deschamps is the editor of Kitten Cat Magazine, a free online publication, where people can share their passion for cats and learn more about this extraordinary animal. Other articles on cat toys can be found at http://www.kitten-cat-magazine.com/cat-scratching-post.html
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
Providing your feline friend with the right cat pet toy will make cat ownership more rewarding.
Many cats spend their days in home environments that are often lonely, and non-stimulating.
Without an outlet for pent-up mental and physical energy, some cats can become stressed, or even destructive. Luckily, you can help minimize these tendencies by enriching your cat’s environment with stimulating, fun toys designed to appeal to their outgoing, playful natures.
Before purchasing any cat pet toy be sure to first “pet-proof” your home by picking up or concealing objects that, if eaten, could cause medical problems.
These include:
-Paper clips, pins, or staples -Rubber bands, string, or shoelaces -Pens or pencils -Wires or power cords -All children’s toys -Socks and pantyhose -Jewelry -Hardware -Human foods or medications
In addition, be sure to remove any items of clothing (including shoes, belts and other delicious leather goods) that your cat might find tasty.
Though cats tend to amuse themselves better than do their canine cousins, they too need some regular mental and physical stimulation to stay happy. Also, without an outlet for their strong predatory instincts, most cats will become stressed or even destructive; it is essential, then, to provide your cat with a stimulating home environment that includes the cat toys.
Cats are not quite as destructive as dogs with regard to playthings. Nevertheless, care should be taken that a non-supervised cat pet toy not contain any easily-swallowed pieces such as buttons, feathers, strings or squeakers.
Often, cat owners find that their feline friend will treat simple household items as treasured toys. Balled-up wads of newspaper, cardboard boxes stuffed with shredded paper, ping-pong balls, or even the cardboard cores of paper towel rolls can often occupy hours of a cat’s time.
The following store-bought toys can also provide your cat with hours of fun. They include:
-Plastic or hard rubber balls, with or without noisemakers inside -Small, soft, stuffed animals, with or without catnip inside -Wind-up or battery-operated toys -Teaser wands or laser pens (operated by you)
Be sure to rotate your cat pet toy (s) on a regular basis, to keep interest levels high. Also, keep them clean.
Don’t simply let your feline friend play with a cat pet toy all on its own; instead, participate in the action. Doing so will help bond you to your cat, and make playtime all the more fun. Whether it’s a game of fetch or a session with the teaser toy, your cat will soon come to see you as its greatest play buddy.
Providing your feline friend with a fun cat pet toy will help minimize problem behaviors and make cat ownership more rewarding.
Marc Deschamps is the editor of Kitten Cat Magazine, a free online publication, where people can share their passion for cats and learn more about this extraordinary animal. Other articles on cat toys can be found at http://www.kitten-cat-magazine.com/cat-scratching-post.html
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
7 Reasons Why Your Cat Needs a Jacket!
By Sarah Thwaites
1. To keep your best friend safe and sound.
Stop worrying about all those dangers your cat faces every time he leaves the house unaccompanied. Risks such as poisoning, paralysis ticks, snake and spider bites, attack by dogs or feral cats or vehicle collision are greatly reduced if he/she is in a CatWalkingJacket on the end of a leash controlled by you!
2. To protect the fauna around your home.
You may love your cat dearly but it is a fact of life that most cats are killers! It is incredibly difficult and unrealistic to make a cat overcome their natural instinct to hunt and kill, but most cat owners have felt the shame when their well-fed darling comes home with a mortally injured or dead animal. If you love all animals then you need to protect them all!
3. To give those 'indoor' cats some 'outside' time.
Perhaps you live in an apartment block and your cat hasn't figured out how to use the lift- yet! Thousands of cats have had to live an indoor life because of location. Indoor cats can get bored, frustrated and ultimately end up driving you crazy! Scratched furniture, damaged ornaments and chewed fabrics don't contribute to a great relationship with your cat. The CatWalkingJacket will open up a whole new world of excitement and entertainment for your cat, even if they have not had the opportunity to develop those outdoor survival skills.
4. To give you the opportunity to bond more deeply with your cat.
Because of its unique shape and 3 strap fastening system the CatWalkingJacket is quick and easy to put on - leaving you with more quality time with your pet. Whether you spend that time lazing on the patio or exploring the depths of your garden/beach/park is entirely up to the two of you!
5. For travel - imagine being able to take your cat on holiday with you!
Most owners have been reluctant to take their cats on vacation because they fear that their pet may run away and be unable to find their way back in an unfamiliar environment. The CatWalkingJacket allows you to explore new places together without the worry.
6. To provide more security when you need it most
Visits to the vet, administering medication, checking for ticks,etc. The CatWalkingJacket provides you with something firm to hold onto even if your cat is wriggling to get away.
7. Cats are notoriously strong-willed, so a regular leash and collar just isn't going to work!
The jacket has to be tough. A CatWalkingJacket is strong, secure and durable yet comfortable and easy to use. It is made of a sports nylon fabric and it's unique shape securely 'cradles' the cat's body and has 3 secure fastening points. We used the jacket on a cat who had reacted strongly against wearing an ordinary collar when he came out of quarantine but he was fine with the CatWalkingJacket and, in fact, he is now quite happy to leave his jacket on when he is inside!
Sarah runs the successful http://www.CatWalkingJacket.com website - the place on the web to buy Walking Jackets for Cats!
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
1. To keep your best friend safe and sound.
Stop worrying about all those dangers your cat faces every time he leaves the house unaccompanied. Risks such as poisoning, paralysis ticks, snake and spider bites, attack by dogs or feral cats or vehicle collision are greatly reduced if he/she is in a CatWalkingJacket on the end of a leash controlled by you!
2. To protect the fauna around your home.
You may love your cat dearly but it is a fact of life that most cats are killers! It is incredibly difficult and unrealistic to make a cat overcome their natural instinct to hunt and kill, but most cat owners have felt the shame when their well-fed darling comes home with a mortally injured or dead animal. If you love all animals then you need to protect them all!
3. To give those 'indoor' cats some 'outside' time.
Perhaps you live in an apartment block and your cat hasn't figured out how to use the lift- yet! Thousands of cats have had to live an indoor life because of location. Indoor cats can get bored, frustrated and ultimately end up driving you crazy! Scratched furniture, damaged ornaments and chewed fabrics don't contribute to a great relationship with your cat. The CatWalkingJacket will open up a whole new world of excitement and entertainment for your cat, even if they have not had the opportunity to develop those outdoor survival skills.
4. To give you the opportunity to bond more deeply with your cat.
Because of its unique shape and 3 strap fastening system the CatWalkingJacket is quick and easy to put on - leaving you with more quality time with your pet. Whether you spend that time lazing on the patio or exploring the depths of your garden/beach/park is entirely up to the two of you!
5. For travel - imagine being able to take your cat on holiday with you!
Most owners have been reluctant to take their cats on vacation because they fear that their pet may run away and be unable to find their way back in an unfamiliar environment. The CatWalkingJacket allows you to explore new places together without the worry.
6. To provide more security when you need it most
Visits to the vet, administering medication, checking for ticks,etc. The CatWalkingJacket provides you with something firm to hold onto even if your cat is wriggling to get away.
7. Cats are notoriously strong-willed, so a regular leash and collar just isn't going to work!
The jacket has to be tough. A CatWalkingJacket is strong, secure and durable yet comfortable and easy to use. It is made of a sports nylon fabric and it's unique shape securely 'cradles' the cat's body and has 3 secure fastening points. We used the jacket on a cat who had reacted strongly against wearing an ordinary collar when he came out of quarantine but he was fine with the CatWalkingJacket and, in fact, he is now quite happy to leave his jacket on when he is inside!
Sarah runs the successful http://www.CatWalkingJacket.com website - the place on the web to buy Walking Jackets for Cats!
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
Pilling a Cat
By Deena Caruso
Pilling a cat can be a nightmarish experience. Cats don't want something pushed down their throats, and they'll fight with all their might to prevent it. In fact, it's amazing how powerful their small bodies can be. Here are some ways to make the pilling process easier and less stressful for both you and your cat.
The easiest way of pilling a cat is to crush the pill into a powder by using mortor & pestle or by putting the pill between two spoons. Then mix the powder with a small amount of wet food (preferably a preservative free, healthy wet food). If your cat usually eats dry food, she will probably view the wet food as a treat and eat it up.
If the medication is a capsule, just pull the capsule apart, sprinkle the contents on the wet food, & mix, & serve.
If your cat won't eat the wet food that contains the pill or if she is too ill to eat, you can get a pill gun, also called a pet piller, from your veterinarian. This is a plastic rod with little rubber cups on the end that hold the pill until a plunger is pressed. It's best to get a long gun with a soft tip.
Your vet can show you how to use the pill gun, but here are some basic instructions. Getting your cat's mouth open is going to be the most difficult part. First, be sure the pill is in a handy place. You can put your cat on a bookshelf with her bottom in a corner or you can put her on your lap firmly braced. Have your cat facing to the right if you're right handed, & vice versa. With your left hand, grip your cat at the cheekbones, putting your palm at the top of her head. Keeping your finger off the trigger, with your right hand, insert the pill gun until the pill is positioned over the tongue & open throat. Then pull the trigger & withdraw the gun quickly. Be sure to give your cat a treat directly after giving the pill.
If you don't feel comfortable using a pill gun, you can try giving the pill by hand. Extend your cat's head backwards just far enough so that her nose is pointing towards the ceiling. At this point, most cats will slightly open their mouths. With the little finger or ring finger of the hand holding the pill, open the bottom jaw a little more. You may need to hold her top jaw with your other hand while doing this. Aim straight and lightly throw the pill or drop it so that it hits beyond the hump in her tongue. (Be sure to drop or lightly throw the pill rather than shoving it down so that your cat is not as likely to gag and so that you lessen your chance of getting bitten.) Most cats will then instinctively swallow the pill.
In case none of these pilling strategies work, as a last resort try to find a compounding pharmacy, and have them make flavored liquid or gel out of the medication.
Deena Caruso, author, teacher, & distributor of natural pet products Helps pet owners create healthy, happy pets. To receive FREE "Pet Pointers" Newsletter, go to: http://www.healthyfoodforpets.com
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
Pilling a cat can be a nightmarish experience. Cats don't want something pushed down their throats, and they'll fight with all their might to prevent it. In fact, it's amazing how powerful their small bodies can be. Here are some ways to make the pilling process easier and less stressful for both you and your cat.
The easiest way of pilling a cat is to crush the pill into a powder by using mortor & pestle or by putting the pill between two spoons. Then mix the powder with a small amount of wet food (preferably a preservative free, healthy wet food). If your cat usually eats dry food, she will probably view the wet food as a treat and eat it up.
If the medication is a capsule, just pull the capsule apart, sprinkle the contents on the wet food, & mix, & serve.
If your cat won't eat the wet food that contains the pill or if she is too ill to eat, you can get a pill gun, also called a pet piller, from your veterinarian. This is a plastic rod with little rubber cups on the end that hold the pill until a plunger is pressed. It's best to get a long gun with a soft tip.
Your vet can show you how to use the pill gun, but here are some basic instructions. Getting your cat's mouth open is going to be the most difficult part. First, be sure the pill is in a handy place. You can put your cat on a bookshelf with her bottom in a corner or you can put her on your lap firmly braced. Have your cat facing to the right if you're right handed, & vice versa. With your left hand, grip your cat at the cheekbones, putting your palm at the top of her head. Keeping your finger off the trigger, with your right hand, insert the pill gun until the pill is positioned over the tongue & open throat. Then pull the trigger & withdraw the gun quickly. Be sure to give your cat a treat directly after giving the pill.
If you don't feel comfortable using a pill gun, you can try giving the pill by hand. Extend your cat's head backwards just far enough so that her nose is pointing towards the ceiling. At this point, most cats will slightly open their mouths. With the little finger or ring finger of the hand holding the pill, open the bottom jaw a little more. You may need to hold her top jaw with your other hand while doing this. Aim straight and lightly throw the pill or drop it so that it hits beyond the hump in her tongue. (Be sure to drop or lightly throw the pill rather than shoving it down so that your cat is not as likely to gag and so that you lessen your chance of getting bitten.) Most cats will then instinctively swallow the pill.
In case none of these pilling strategies work, as a last resort try to find a compounding pharmacy, and have them make flavored liquid or gel out of the medication.
Deena Caruso, author, teacher, & distributor of natural pet products Helps pet owners create healthy, happy pets. To receive FREE "Pet Pointers" Newsletter, go to: http://www.healthyfoodforpets.com
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
How To Stop a Cat From Scratching Your Furniture
By Rose Smith
Fluffy is using your new chair for a scratching post...again!
Its a very natural thing for a cat to sharpen it's claws. After all, they are used for climbing, catching "food" (when necessary), climbing, perching and defending themeselves. Of course, let's not forget another very important trait that cat's need claws for..."kneading your leg" when contentedly curled up on your lap. So, what's a human to do?
Get a scratching post!
It's relatively easy to teach a cat to use a scratching post instead of your own furniture (and in some cases...you!). Even a "slow" cat will catch on to the idea fairly quickly. Many pet stores sell scratching posts and furniture in all shapes and sizes to keep your frolicing feline happy and content.
You can also make your own scratching post out of simple materials lying around your home. For example, take a 4" diameter branch about 2 feet long. Wrap it snuggly and securly with some rope. Voila...simple scratching post. Another option is to cover a 2X4 board with old carpeting.
Once you have a scratching post (either purchased or home- made), place it near the area that your cat spends the most time or next to his favorite "scratching" place. Now comes the hard part...waiting and watching.
As soon as your cat begins to scratch an inappropriate item (from your point of view...not his), quickly say "no" in a deep voice and pick him up. Take him to the new scratching post and rub his paws gently over the post, simulating scratching. You will have to be deligent about this.
Whenever you see your cat using the scratching post on his own, immediately praise him, perhaps even giving him a treat the first few times to reenforce the behavior. A cat learns quickly and it shouldn't take long for him to "readjust" his habits.
GoofusRoofus.com is a fun and humorous site for dog and cat lovers, both young and old. Featuring jokes, posters, puzzles, books, videos, fun facts, informative articles, animal board games, computer games and much more. Be sure to visit us today! http://www.goofusroofus.com
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
Fluffy is using your new chair for a scratching post...again!
Its a very natural thing for a cat to sharpen it's claws. After all, they are used for climbing, catching "food" (when necessary), climbing, perching and defending themeselves. Of course, let's not forget another very important trait that cat's need claws for..."kneading your leg" when contentedly curled up on your lap. So, what's a human to do?
Get a scratching post!
It's relatively easy to teach a cat to use a scratching post instead of your own furniture (and in some cases...you!). Even a "slow" cat will catch on to the idea fairly quickly. Many pet stores sell scratching posts and furniture in all shapes and sizes to keep your frolicing feline happy and content.
You can also make your own scratching post out of simple materials lying around your home. For example, take a 4" diameter branch about 2 feet long. Wrap it snuggly and securly with some rope. Voila...simple scratching post. Another option is to cover a 2X4 board with old carpeting.
Once you have a scratching post (either purchased or home- made), place it near the area that your cat spends the most time or next to his favorite "scratching" place. Now comes the hard part...waiting and watching.
As soon as your cat begins to scratch an inappropriate item (from your point of view...not his), quickly say "no" in a deep voice and pick him up. Take him to the new scratching post and rub his paws gently over the post, simulating scratching. You will have to be deligent about this.
Whenever you see your cat using the scratching post on his own, immediately praise him, perhaps even giving him a treat the first few times to reenforce the behavior. A cat learns quickly and it shouldn't take long for him to "readjust" his habits.
GoofusRoofus.com is a fun and humorous site for dog and cat lovers, both young and old. Featuring jokes, posters, puzzles, books, videos, fun facts, informative articles, animal board games, computer games and much more. Be sure to visit us today! http://www.goofusroofus.com
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
Fighting Cat Allergies
By Rose Smith
It's unfortunate when an owner has to give away a beloved cat because of allergies that have developed in the household. But, before taking that drastic step, here are some tips that you should try first to see if they help alleviate the problem enough, so that Fluffy can continue to stay in her loving home.
1. Try bathing your cat every 4 to 6 weeks with a very mild shampoo (be sure to rinse thoroughly). This helps remove the build up of dandruff beneath the skin. As well, many people don't realize that a cat's saliva is a huge culprit in causing allergies. Because a cat grooms itself so often, there is a build up of a potent protein from the saliva that causes severe allergic reactions. By washing your cat on a regular basis, you can remove much of this build up. But, please do not bathe your cat more often then once a month, otherwise you may dry out the skin, causing the cat to scratch itself and in turn, raising the dander even more.
2. Get a full allergy test done to determine what other household substances you might be allergic too. In many cases, a person allergic to cats is also allergic to other environmental allergens as well. Each additional allergy that you may have, compounds the whole problem.
3. Get rid of carpets and as many nylon and synthetic fabric surfaces as you can. Nylon and synthetic fabrics (in furniture and rugs) attract and hold dust, dander, etc. much more than natural fabrics do. The more washable surfaces you have in your home, the easier it is to keep clean.
4. Use a commercial size air purifier in your home to filter many of the airborne irritants. These air purifiers can have a dramatic affect on your allergies. However, keep in mind that the small room-size units are not large enough to do the job properly, hence why a larger, commercial one is recommended if you wish to see any difference.
5. Wash bedspreads, sheets, pillows, curtains, area rugs and other fabrics often. Also, make sure you vacuum often with a vacuum cleaner that has a good (and clean) filter. Then air out the room to allow any floating dust particles to settle. If possible, get someone else to do the vacuuming.
6. Cat litter can also be a large irritant. Stay away from deodorizing cat litter, as it contains chemicals to help mask the smell in the litterbox. Buy litter that has a low dust ratio and pour it into the pan slowly, so as to keep any clay dust to a minimum. Again, if possible, have someone else in the household change the litterbox.
7. Brush your cat on a daily basis to remove dandruff and old hair, that can trap dander beneath the surface. Better yet, get someone else to do the grooming for you.
It can't hurt to try out some or all of these suggestions and see what type of results you get, before giving away a beloved family member. If you still find that living with your cat is intolerable, then you may have to resign yourself that it's best to give your cat away to a safe and loving home.
GoofusRoofus.com is a fun and humorous site for dog and cat lovers, both young and old. Featuring jokes, posters, puzzles, books, videos, fun facts, informative articles, animal board games, computer games and much more. Be sure to visit us today! http://www.goofusroofus.com
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
It's unfortunate when an owner has to give away a beloved cat because of allergies that have developed in the household. But, before taking that drastic step, here are some tips that you should try first to see if they help alleviate the problem enough, so that Fluffy can continue to stay in her loving home.
1. Try bathing your cat every 4 to 6 weeks with a very mild shampoo (be sure to rinse thoroughly). This helps remove the build up of dandruff beneath the skin. As well, many people don't realize that a cat's saliva is a huge culprit in causing allergies. Because a cat grooms itself so often, there is a build up of a potent protein from the saliva that causes severe allergic reactions. By washing your cat on a regular basis, you can remove much of this build up. But, please do not bathe your cat more often then once a month, otherwise you may dry out the skin, causing the cat to scratch itself and in turn, raising the dander even more.
2. Get a full allergy test done to determine what other household substances you might be allergic too. In many cases, a person allergic to cats is also allergic to other environmental allergens as well. Each additional allergy that you may have, compounds the whole problem.
3. Get rid of carpets and as many nylon and synthetic fabric surfaces as you can. Nylon and synthetic fabrics (in furniture and rugs) attract and hold dust, dander, etc. much more than natural fabrics do. The more washable surfaces you have in your home, the easier it is to keep clean.
4. Use a commercial size air purifier in your home to filter many of the airborne irritants. These air purifiers can have a dramatic affect on your allergies. However, keep in mind that the small room-size units are not large enough to do the job properly, hence why a larger, commercial one is recommended if you wish to see any difference.
5. Wash bedspreads, sheets, pillows, curtains, area rugs and other fabrics often. Also, make sure you vacuum often with a vacuum cleaner that has a good (and clean) filter. Then air out the room to allow any floating dust particles to settle. If possible, get someone else to do the vacuuming.
6. Cat litter can also be a large irritant. Stay away from deodorizing cat litter, as it contains chemicals to help mask the smell in the litterbox. Buy litter that has a low dust ratio and pour it into the pan slowly, so as to keep any clay dust to a minimum. Again, if possible, have someone else in the household change the litterbox.
7. Brush your cat on a daily basis to remove dandruff and old hair, that can trap dander beneath the surface. Better yet, get someone else to do the grooming for you.
It can't hurt to try out some or all of these suggestions and see what type of results you get, before giving away a beloved family member. If you still find that living with your cat is intolerable, then you may have to resign yourself that it's best to give your cat away to a safe and loving home.
GoofusRoofus.com is a fun and humorous site for dog and cat lovers, both young and old. Featuring jokes, posters, puzzles, books, videos, fun facts, informative articles, animal board games, computer games and much more. Be sure to visit us today! http://www.goofusroofus.com
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
Ten Things I Learned from My Cat
By Rinatta Paries
1. Always be ready to play. Know how to recognize the playful look in the person you love, and immediately start playing.
2. When you are happy to see someone, stretch your arms up to him or her and ask to be picked up.
3. If the person you love forgets to feed you dinner, don't take it personally. Instead, run to sit by your plate and look hungry.
4. Talk to the one you love, incessantly and constantly. It makes him or her feel loved, appreciated and important.
5. Don't be afraid to ask to be touched. Just falling down and looking cute works well. Otherwise, rubbing up against the person you love will do the trick.
6. If you keep asking for attention and don't get any, try disappearing suddenly. Then, don't come back for a little while, even if you are called. Your loved one will think twice before ignoring you next time.
7. Show your love and adoration by bringing presents. Make sure to stand by your present and get fully appreciated.
8. Purr when the person you love is anywhere near you. It will encourage him or her to get closer to you while feeling appreciated.
9. Encourage the person you love to take naps with you. When you take naps together, make sure to cuddle up under the blanket and get as close as you can.
10. Always comfort the person you love, regardless of whether he or she needs emotional or physical comfort. Cuddling, purring, and being sat on are sure cures for almost anything.
Rinatta Paries. Do you know how to attract your ideal mate? Do you know how to build a fulfilling relationship, or how to reinvent yours to meet your needs? Relationship Coach Rinatta Paries can teach you the skills and techniques to attract and sustain long-term, healthy partnerships. Visit www.WhatItTakes.com where you'll find quizzes, classes, advice and a free weekly ezine. Become a "true love magnet(tm)!"
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
1. Always be ready to play. Know how to recognize the playful look in the person you love, and immediately start playing.
2. When you are happy to see someone, stretch your arms up to him or her and ask to be picked up.
3. If the person you love forgets to feed you dinner, don't take it personally. Instead, run to sit by your plate and look hungry.
4. Talk to the one you love, incessantly and constantly. It makes him or her feel loved, appreciated and important.
5. Don't be afraid to ask to be touched. Just falling down and looking cute works well. Otherwise, rubbing up against the person you love will do the trick.
6. If you keep asking for attention and don't get any, try disappearing suddenly. Then, don't come back for a little while, even if you are called. Your loved one will think twice before ignoring you next time.
7. Show your love and adoration by bringing presents. Make sure to stand by your present and get fully appreciated.
8. Purr when the person you love is anywhere near you. It will encourage him or her to get closer to you while feeling appreciated.
9. Encourage the person you love to take naps with you. When you take naps together, make sure to cuddle up under the blanket and get as close as you can.
10. Always comfort the person you love, regardless of whether he or she needs emotional or physical comfort. Cuddling, purring, and being sat on are sure cures for almost anything.
Rinatta Paries. Do you know how to attract your ideal mate? Do you know how to build a fulfilling relationship, or how to reinvent yours to meet your needs? Relationship Coach Rinatta Paries can teach you the skills and techniques to attract and sustain long-term, healthy partnerships. Visit www.WhatItTakes.com where you'll find quizzes, classes, advice and a free weekly ezine. Become a "true love magnet(tm)!"
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
The Horrors of Commercial Pet Food: What Every Dog and Cat Owner Should Know1
By Sylvia Riley
Some of the ingredients that end up in commercial pet foods are truly shocking. What’s more, many of these will not appear on the label and others are hidden under umbrella terms such as ‘meat meal’ and ‘meat by-products’. How can this happen? The pet food industry is highly unregulated. As Ann Martin, author of Foods Pets Die For, writes in her article The Pet Food Industry and its Questionable Practices, ‘Governments in the USA and Canada regulate the labeling of the food, the name and address of the company, the weight of the product, and whether it is made for a dog or cat - nothing more.’
The meats used in pet food can be extremely low grade and unfit for human consumption. Summarized as the ‘4 D’s’ (dead, diseased, disabled and dying), these can include roadkill, zoo animals and infected and cancerous meats.
At the rendering plants ingredients are highly heated and processed, destroying nutrients and enzymes, with strong preservatives added which do not appear on the labels. These include fat stabilizers such as BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole) and BHT (butylated hydroxytolulene), both of which are known to cause liver and kidney dysfunction and Ethoxyquin, a suspected cancer-causing agent. Semi-moist dog foods may also contain propylene glycol, a relation to ethylene glycol (anti-freeze), which can destroy red blood cells.
Pets in your pet food
Though reportedly not the case today, it is well recorded that dogs and cats have ended up in dog and cat food. In his 1990 article How Dogs and Cats Get Recycled Into Pet Food, John Eckhouse, an investigative reporter, wrote: ‘Each year, millions of dead American dogs and cats are processed along with billions of pounds of other animal materials by companies known as renderers. The finished products -- tallow and meat meals -- serve as raw materials for thousands of items that include cosmetics and pet food.’
Doctor of weterianry medicine Wendell Belfield in Foods Not Fit For a Pet (Earth Island Journal, 1996), reports that ‘federal and state agencies, including the Food and Drug Administration and medical groups such as the American Veterinary Medical Association and the California Veterinary Medical Association, confirm that pets, on a routine basis, are rendered after they die in animal shelters or are disposed of by health authorities, and the end product frequently finds its way into pet food.’
Toxic Grains
The very use of grains in pet food is questionable as grains are ill-suited to the digestive physiology of carnivores. This is especially so for cats who are obligatory carnivores and meet their glucose requirements through amino acids in their diet. Further, the grains used in dog and cat foods may contain mycotoxins, fungi that can cause chronic conditions and even death in both humans and animals. As the grains used in pet food are low grade, they are dealt with last in the handling process and because of this are often left in storage where insects, mites and mycotoxic molds can grow.
NATURAL NUTRITION GUIDE FOR DOGS AND CATS: http://www.pet-nutrition-guide.com MIRACLE SUPERFOODS: http://www.miracle-superfoods.com
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
Some of the ingredients that end up in commercial pet foods are truly shocking. What’s more, many of these will not appear on the label and others are hidden under umbrella terms such as ‘meat meal’ and ‘meat by-products’. How can this happen? The pet food industry is highly unregulated. As Ann Martin, author of Foods Pets Die For, writes in her article The Pet Food Industry and its Questionable Practices, ‘Governments in the USA and Canada regulate the labeling of the food, the name and address of the company, the weight of the product, and whether it is made for a dog or cat - nothing more.’
The meats used in pet food can be extremely low grade and unfit for human consumption. Summarized as the ‘4 D’s’ (dead, diseased, disabled and dying), these can include roadkill, zoo animals and infected and cancerous meats.
At the rendering plants ingredients are highly heated and processed, destroying nutrients and enzymes, with strong preservatives added which do not appear on the labels. These include fat stabilizers such as BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole) and BHT (butylated hydroxytolulene), both of which are known to cause liver and kidney dysfunction and Ethoxyquin, a suspected cancer-causing agent. Semi-moist dog foods may also contain propylene glycol, a relation to ethylene glycol (anti-freeze), which can destroy red blood cells.
Pets in your pet food
Though reportedly not the case today, it is well recorded that dogs and cats have ended up in dog and cat food. In his 1990 article How Dogs and Cats Get Recycled Into Pet Food, John Eckhouse, an investigative reporter, wrote: ‘Each year, millions of dead American dogs and cats are processed along with billions of pounds of other animal materials by companies known as renderers. The finished products -- tallow and meat meals -- serve as raw materials for thousands of items that include cosmetics and pet food.’
Doctor of weterianry medicine Wendell Belfield in Foods Not Fit For a Pet (Earth Island Journal, 1996), reports that ‘federal and state agencies, including the Food and Drug Administration and medical groups such as the American Veterinary Medical Association and the California Veterinary Medical Association, confirm that pets, on a routine basis, are rendered after they die in animal shelters or are disposed of by health authorities, and the end product frequently finds its way into pet food.’
Toxic Grains
The very use of grains in pet food is questionable as grains are ill-suited to the digestive physiology of carnivores. This is especially so for cats who are obligatory carnivores and meet their glucose requirements through amino acids in their diet. Further, the grains used in dog and cat foods may contain mycotoxins, fungi that can cause chronic conditions and even death in both humans and animals. As the grains used in pet food are low grade, they are dealt with last in the handling process and because of this are often left in storage where insects, mites and mycotoxic molds can grow.
NATURAL NUTRITION GUIDE FOR DOGS AND CATS: http://www.pet-nutrition-guide.com MIRACLE SUPERFOODS: http://www.miracle-superfoods.com
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
Caring for a Ragdoll Cat2
By: Ragdollcatguide.com Editors
Litterbox
The litterbox should be kept in a fairly secluded area to allow for privacy, but not so out of the way that it is difficult to access for cleaning. Usually a laundry room or other spare room serves as a good location.
We recommend scooping out the inside of the box at least once a day, and actually replacing the litter weekly. If you have more than one cat, then it may be necessary to clean the box twice daily, morning and night for example.
There are many different brands and types of litter out there, it is just a matter of preference. The main thing is to find something that your cat will use, is easy to keep clean and affordable for your budget.
Veterinarian
You should take your ragdoll to a veterinarian on a regular basis according to what they recommend. You will want to get vaccination shots and any other treatments that will keep your cat healthy and safe.
There may be special considerations if your ragdoll spends more time outside, such as pest control and a higher susceptibility to disease. Make sure you discuss this with your vet and work out a plan that makes sense.
Visit the The Ragdoll Cat Guide at http://www.ragdollcatguide.com to get a wealth of information about Ragdoll cats.
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
Litterbox
The litterbox should be kept in a fairly secluded area to allow for privacy, but not so out of the way that it is difficult to access for cleaning. Usually a laundry room or other spare room serves as a good location.
We recommend scooping out the inside of the box at least once a day, and actually replacing the litter weekly. If you have more than one cat, then it may be necessary to clean the box twice daily, morning and night for example.
There are many different brands and types of litter out there, it is just a matter of preference. The main thing is to find something that your cat will use, is easy to keep clean and affordable for your budget.
Veterinarian
You should take your ragdoll to a veterinarian on a regular basis according to what they recommend. You will want to get vaccination shots and any other treatments that will keep your cat healthy and safe.
There may be special considerations if your ragdoll spends more time outside, such as pest control and a higher susceptibility to disease. Make sure you discuss this with your vet and work out a plan that makes sense.
Visit the The Ragdoll Cat Guide at http://www.ragdollcatguide.com to get a wealth of information about Ragdoll cats.
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
Caring for a Ragdoll Cat1
By Ragdollcatguide.com Editors
The ragdoll cat is a large breed of cat, best known for its easygoing and mellow nature. They have long, thick fur coats and markings that resemble a siamese. Caring for your ragdoll cat should involve a regular feeding and grooming schedule, along with regular visits to the veterinarian for checkups and vaccinations. If you take good care of your ragdoll cat, they will be healthy, happy, and a better active pet for you to enjoy.
Feeding
Fresh food and water is an absolute necessity for your ragdoll. It is recommended that you always have a bowl full of dry food available for your cat, as well as a bowl of clean water. Wet food is probably not necessary on a daily basis, but it is really up to you, and what your ragdoll prefers. You may need to experiment with different brands and flavors of wet food. It can provide extra nutrients and add variety to your ragdoll's diet. We recommend feeding your ragdoll one of the premium brands of food, as the quality is usually better. Usually kittens should have a special formula of food, so check with your veterinarian or local pet store if your not sure.
You should try to clean the water bowl daily, and the food bowl as much as possible to prevent germs and bacteria from building up.
Grooming
Ragdoll coats can vary in thickness and hair type. The average ragdoll hair is fairly thick, and very soft to the touch. The length of the fur can be medium to long.
They usually do a good job of grooming themselves, and don't require excessive brushing. It is a good idea to brush them strenuously a couple of times a week to prevent matting of the fur. The other reason for brushing on a regular schedule, is if you happen to find a knot forming, you can easily brush it out before it gets out of control.
Ragdolls tend to enjoy grooming and make it easy for you to brush away!
Bathing
Bathing is not really necessary if regular grooming is done. It may be beneficial to give your ragdoll a bath a couple of times a year, to clean the coat if really dirty or if they have gotten into something that can not be brushed out.
Make sure that you use a shampoo and conditioner that is formulated especially for cats, as regular human products may be harmful to your ragdoll.
Claws
Declawing a cat is a controversial subject, and one that brings many different opinions. We generally don't recommend declawing a ragdoll unless it will help with the safety within a household, specifically with children. Clipping the claws can be done on a regular basis to avoid damage to your furniture or other items in the house, so if that is your only reason for declawing the cat, your decision should be weighed carefully because it is not reversible.
Keep in mind that if a ragdoll cat is declawed, it should be limited in it's exposure to the outside world. Without front claws, a ragdoll doesn't have much of a defense against other animals or threats that it might encounter.
Visit the The Ragdoll Cat Guide at http://www.ragdollcatguide.com to get a wealth of information about Ragdoll cats.
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
The ragdoll cat is a large breed of cat, best known for its easygoing and mellow nature. They have long, thick fur coats and markings that resemble a siamese. Caring for your ragdoll cat should involve a regular feeding and grooming schedule, along with regular visits to the veterinarian for checkups and vaccinations. If you take good care of your ragdoll cat, they will be healthy, happy, and a better active pet for you to enjoy.
Feeding
Fresh food and water is an absolute necessity for your ragdoll. It is recommended that you always have a bowl full of dry food available for your cat, as well as a bowl of clean water. Wet food is probably not necessary on a daily basis, but it is really up to you, and what your ragdoll prefers. You may need to experiment with different brands and flavors of wet food. It can provide extra nutrients and add variety to your ragdoll's diet. We recommend feeding your ragdoll one of the premium brands of food, as the quality is usually better. Usually kittens should have a special formula of food, so check with your veterinarian or local pet store if your not sure.
You should try to clean the water bowl daily, and the food bowl as much as possible to prevent germs and bacteria from building up.
Grooming
Ragdoll coats can vary in thickness and hair type. The average ragdoll hair is fairly thick, and very soft to the touch. The length of the fur can be medium to long.
They usually do a good job of grooming themselves, and don't require excessive brushing. It is a good idea to brush them strenuously a couple of times a week to prevent matting of the fur. The other reason for brushing on a regular schedule, is if you happen to find a knot forming, you can easily brush it out before it gets out of control.
Ragdolls tend to enjoy grooming and make it easy for you to brush away!
Bathing
Bathing is not really necessary if regular grooming is done. It may be beneficial to give your ragdoll a bath a couple of times a year, to clean the coat if really dirty or if they have gotten into something that can not be brushed out.
Make sure that you use a shampoo and conditioner that is formulated especially for cats, as regular human products may be harmful to your ragdoll.
Claws
Declawing a cat is a controversial subject, and one that brings many different opinions. We generally don't recommend declawing a ragdoll unless it will help with the safety within a household, specifically with children. Clipping the claws can be done on a regular basis to avoid damage to your furniture or other items in the house, so if that is your only reason for declawing the cat, your decision should be weighed carefully because it is not reversible.
Keep in mind that if a ragdoll cat is declawed, it should be limited in it's exposure to the outside world. Without front claws, a ragdoll doesn't have much of a defense against other animals or threats that it might encounter.
Visit the The Ragdoll Cat Guide at http://www.ragdollcatguide.com to get a wealth of information about Ragdoll cats.
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com