By: Matthew Hick
If you have ever tried to train a cat or any pet, you have probably realized that it isn't the simplest process. Training a cat is not the same thing as training a dog, as cats are not performance pets like dogs can be. There are three rules to follow when training a cat; reward, praise, and positive reinforcement. If you can learn how to use these rules and how to apply them to your cat's training, you will be able to teach your cat simple tricks – and perhaps even toilet train it!
Basic cat training tries to encourage good behavior and discourage bad behavior. Anything you want your cat to do should be rewarding, enjoyable, and pleasant. Likewise, those things you don't want your cat to do should be unpleasant, not enjoyable, and should never be rewarded. It is important to remember that reprimands don't work in cat training. Punishment will only cause the cat to mistrust you and to repeat the bad behavior, when you are not around. Sometimes cats won't align the crime with the punishment and act out with another bad behavior.
Training will require time and diligence. You should never stray from your routine. If a cat has a pleasant experience when he does something, and is rewarded with food or praise, you can bet he will repeat this behavior. So, help your feline friend achieve a desired behavior, such as litter box training, with this in mind. When litter box training, you can control what your cat takes in and determine where it comes out. A short time after eating, take your cat in an enclosed room with the litter box. Make him sit in the box. When he has used the litter box, provide plenty of oral praise and hugs, maybe even a little treat, and your little friend will get the point. Soon he won't need to be kept in the box to achieve the desired result.
No one wants their cats to use their new couch as a scratching post. Of course, initially, they really don't know any better, so make it an unpleasant experience. Cats don't like to get their claws caught up in anything, so cover the bottom of your sofa with netting. The cat will realize this is not any fun and retreat to his scratching post. Once again, positive reinforcement with the good behavior is key.
As important as it is to reward good behavior, it is also as important not to reward bad behavior. If your cat does something you don't like, don't give him a treat to divert him from the bad behavior. He will associate the improper behavior with rewards and continue to do it. Instead, ignore him or squirt him with water. He will get your point. Also, keep in mind that sometimes a cat will behave badly to get attention. So be sure to schedule regular playtime with your feline and provide them with plenty of toys.
Once you've accomplished the basics in training, you can teach your cat to do many things. They have been taught to sit, lay, walk on a leash and, as mentioned before, even potty trained. Your well-behaved cat will be the envy of all.
Article Tags: Cats, Cat Health, Cat Care, Cat Training, Cat Breeds, Cat Furniture, Cat Breeders, Cat Shelters
About the Author:
More Cat Training Articles at http://Cats-Today.com. Learn how to operate a Successful Niche Website Network at http://eWebCreator.com. Matthew Hick has been designing profitable Niche Adsense Websites for over 5 years. Award winning Adsense Website Service at http://eWebCreator.com
Cat Food - What is Best For Your Cat
Author: Matthew Hick
One thing that cats certainly love is their food. If left to their own devices, cats would seek out rats, mice, or other creatures to devour as dinner. However, nowadays many people have cats as household pets and purchase food for these animals. When purchasing this food, it is important to buy something that resembles a cat's natural diet. Basically, two types of cat food are most commonly found in grocery and pet supply stores today. These types are dry food and canned food.
Dry food is very popular because it comes in bulk, is cheaper and convenient, and won't spoil. By chewing the dry food, the dry particles break down and help get rid of the tartar on cat's teeth. However, dry food doesn't contain much water and is dehydrating. Cats don't drink much water, so a food that contains water would help with hydration. In addition, this type of food is heavily processed.
Canned food comes in smaller portions. They have a large water content, which helps prevent kidney or urinary problems in the feline. It is most like a cat's natural diet and contains less grain and carbohydrates than dry foods. Although it doesn't assist in tartar problems, it does reduce health problems. It is also good for strong bones and muscles. There are many varieties to choose from, which will help prevent feeding problems with a cat known to be picky. You will be sure to find a selection to satisfy your finicky eater.
Whatever type of cat food you choose, it is important to choose one which provides the necessary nutrients a cat needs. It is important to look at the labels to see what ingredients are contained in the food. Make sure it mentions National Research Council guidelines on nutrition and is certified by the Association of American Feed Control Officials. You want to be sure the food is balanced and complete. It should contain a high quantity of protein and certain amino acids, such as taurine, which a cat needs. It should also contain performed Vitamin A, which is found in foods of animal origin.
There are several places to purchase your cat food. Grocery store cat food is usually at the lower end of market quality, but is cheaper. This is probably not the healthiest choice. Premium foods are sold in pet stores and are a higher quality food, although you will still find preservatives, artificial colors and flavors in them. This is a little costlier than grocery store food, but will be more easily digested. The healthy foods are sold on-line or directly from the manufacturer. This would be the healthiest and highest quality food for your pet. They contain real meat, veggies, and fruits as well as being vitamin fortified. They will also be the costliest.
Whatever food you choose and wherever you decide to buy it, make sure you are looking at ingredients. A cat will probably eat any food you put in front of him, whether it is dry or canned, or even a combination of both. Choose foods, which possess high protein and few preservatives and grain. The healthier food you feed your pet, the healthier he will be.
Article Tags: Cats, Cat Food, Cat Health, Cat Care, Cat Breeds, Cat Furniture, Cat Breeders, Cat Shelters
About the Author:
More Cat Food Articles at http://Cats-Today.com. Learn how to operate a Successful Niche Website Network at http://eWebCreator.com. Matthew Hick has been designing profitable Niche Adsense Websites for over 5 years. Award winning Adsense Website Service at http://eWebCreator.com
One thing that cats certainly love is their food. If left to their own devices, cats would seek out rats, mice, or other creatures to devour as dinner. However, nowadays many people have cats as household pets and purchase food for these animals. When purchasing this food, it is important to buy something that resembles a cat's natural diet. Basically, two types of cat food are most commonly found in grocery and pet supply stores today. These types are dry food and canned food.
Dry food is very popular because it comes in bulk, is cheaper and convenient, and won't spoil. By chewing the dry food, the dry particles break down and help get rid of the tartar on cat's teeth. However, dry food doesn't contain much water and is dehydrating. Cats don't drink much water, so a food that contains water would help with hydration. In addition, this type of food is heavily processed.
Canned food comes in smaller portions. They have a large water content, which helps prevent kidney or urinary problems in the feline. It is most like a cat's natural diet and contains less grain and carbohydrates than dry foods. Although it doesn't assist in tartar problems, it does reduce health problems. It is also good for strong bones and muscles. There are many varieties to choose from, which will help prevent feeding problems with a cat known to be picky. You will be sure to find a selection to satisfy your finicky eater.
Whatever type of cat food you choose, it is important to choose one which provides the necessary nutrients a cat needs. It is important to look at the labels to see what ingredients are contained in the food. Make sure it mentions National Research Council guidelines on nutrition and is certified by the Association of American Feed Control Officials. You want to be sure the food is balanced and complete. It should contain a high quantity of protein and certain amino acids, such as taurine, which a cat needs. It should also contain performed Vitamin A, which is found in foods of animal origin.
There are several places to purchase your cat food. Grocery store cat food is usually at the lower end of market quality, but is cheaper. This is probably not the healthiest choice. Premium foods are sold in pet stores and are a higher quality food, although you will still find preservatives, artificial colors and flavors in them. This is a little costlier than grocery store food, but will be more easily digested. The healthy foods are sold on-line or directly from the manufacturer. This would be the healthiest and highest quality food for your pet. They contain real meat, veggies, and fruits as well as being vitamin fortified. They will also be the costliest.
Whatever food you choose and wherever you decide to buy it, make sure you are looking at ingredients. A cat will probably eat any food you put in front of him, whether it is dry or canned, or even a combination of both. Choose foods, which possess high protein and few preservatives and grain. The healthier food you feed your pet, the healthier he will be.
Article Tags: Cats, Cat Food, Cat Health, Cat Care, Cat Breeds, Cat Furniture, Cat Breeders, Cat Shelters
About the Author:
More Cat Food Articles at http://Cats-Today.com. Learn how to operate a Successful Niche Website Network at http://eWebCreator.com. Matthew Hick has been designing profitable Niche Adsense Websites for over 5 years. Award winning Adsense Website Service at http://eWebCreator.com
How To Choose The Right Cat
Author: Renske Buursma
Before you select a cat, you need to decide which breed is right, not only for you, but also for the rest of your family. So follow this short guide to help you with the selection of your new pet.
Vocal Breeds
Consider whether or not you would like a vocal companion. Seriously, some cats can be pretty noisy. And although you may not find this to be an issue, local neighbors - especially in compact apartment arrangements - can find this annoying, especially at night.
Some cat breeds that are a bit heavy on the vocal side include: the Burmese, the Siamese Cat and the Korat. On the other end of the spectrum are: the American Curl, the Scottish Fold, and the Somali - all referred to as very quiet cats.
Cuddle Factor
You also need to consider if you prefer a cat that seeks attention and is cuddly. Or maybe you'd refer one that is aloof? Cuddly cats need lots more attention, but also give you more back in return, too. And cuddly pets such as these are usually better around children.
Some friendly cats are the Abyssinian, Tonkinese, Maine Coon, Snowshoe, Ragdoll and Himalayan Persian. More aloof cats include the Nebelung, the Norwegian Forest Cat and the Russian Shorthair.
Bad Hair Day
An important point to ponder is hair. Do you prefer long hair, not caring so much about grooming and shedding involved, or do you prefer to keep things simple with short hair breeds?
Note: long hair can get matted and messy and require a trip to the groomer or vet for shaving - while the cat is under sedation. So consider whether you have the time, tools and patience to help with grooming regularly.
Age
Last but not least, decide if you prefer to raise your pet from early on; i.e. do you want a kitten? Or would you like to maybe help with a rescue of an older animal?
So wrap it up, consider all of the factors above before you choose your new cat. Look over the different characteristics and the various cat breeds of interest before you begin to seek out your new pet.
Check online for more information about cats. And reach out and call around to your local pet stores and to your local Humane Society chapter with more concerns you may have about cats.
Article Tags: Cats, Pet Care, Pet Tips, Pet Advice, Cat Care, Pet Cats
About the Author:
Renske Buursma, pet store owner with lots of helpful articles and a free newsletter about pet care at http://yourhealthypetsonline.com
Before you select a cat, you need to decide which breed is right, not only for you, but also for the rest of your family. So follow this short guide to help you with the selection of your new pet.
Vocal Breeds
Consider whether or not you would like a vocal companion. Seriously, some cats can be pretty noisy. And although you may not find this to be an issue, local neighbors - especially in compact apartment arrangements - can find this annoying, especially at night.
Some cat breeds that are a bit heavy on the vocal side include: the Burmese, the Siamese Cat and the Korat. On the other end of the spectrum are: the American Curl, the Scottish Fold, and the Somali - all referred to as very quiet cats.
Cuddle Factor
You also need to consider if you prefer a cat that seeks attention and is cuddly. Or maybe you'd refer one that is aloof? Cuddly cats need lots more attention, but also give you more back in return, too. And cuddly pets such as these are usually better around children.
Some friendly cats are the Abyssinian, Tonkinese, Maine Coon, Snowshoe, Ragdoll and Himalayan Persian. More aloof cats include the Nebelung, the Norwegian Forest Cat and the Russian Shorthair.
Bad Hair Day
An important point to ponder is hair. Do you prefer long hair, not caring so much about grooming and shedding involved, or do you prefer to keep things simple with short hair breeds?
Note: long hair can get matted and messy and require a trip to the groomer or vet for shaving - while the cat is under sedation. So consider whether you have the time, tools and patience to help with grooming regularly.
Age
Last but not least, decide if you prefer to raise your pet from early on; i.e. do you want a kitten? Or would you like to maybe help with a rescue of an older animal?
So wrap it up, consider all of the factors above before you choose your new cat. Look over the different characteristics and the various cat breeds of interest before you begin to seek out your new pet.
Check online for more information about cats. And reach out and call around to your local pet stores and to your local Humane Society chapter with more concerns you may have about cats.
Article Tags: Cats, Pet Care, Pet Tips, Pet Advice, Cat Care, Pet Cats
About the Author:
Renske Buursma, pet store owner with lots of helpful articles and a free newsletter about pet care at http://yourhealthypetsonline.com
Funny Cats And Cat Behavior
Author: Renske Buursma
Many people believe that cats have their own agenda and don't pay much mind to their owners - as long as you give them plenty of food, water, toys and clean litter, that is. The truth is that while cats can surely behave in odd manners at times, making people laugh - and scratch heads at times, even. However, even though cat behavior may be somewhat confusing at times, here are some tips to help you learn more.
1. Cats enjoy playing. They like people to play with them, and they like to play with toys, especially string. They will pounce when playing, this is normal, so if you try to stop this behavior, your cat may turn negative and break things.
2. Cats like to push their heads into objects when possible, like couch and table legs, television stands, etc., sometimes people - like your house guests. And when the cat rubs his head against this person, he or she (the cat) may put a touch of saliva on the person, too, because in a cat's mind, he owns what he puts his saliva on.
3. Indoor cats enjoy spending a lot of time lying near a sunny window. While lying in this comfortable spot, the cat may make some very strange noises or incur some strange movements. But don't worry. The cat is basically acting out some natural hunting instincts. You see, regardless of whether another cat or some other animal, person or object outside of the window is moving around, the cat may see it and choose to go right into his natural hunting instinct mode.
The longer you are around cats or even own your cat, the more odd behaviors you will most probably spot or see him or her exhibit. Even though cats may behave in strange ways, they almost always have a reason for behaving the way they do. So if you take the time to learn more and to understand why your cat behaves like he does, you should hopefully have less or no problems in helping keep him or her happy and healthy.
Tip
If you just pay a little more attention to your cat and the way he or she behaves at times - you should be able to understand the behaviors better than ever before. Get more tips at: http://yourhealthypetsonline.com 24/7.
Article Tags: Cats, Pet Care, Cats And Dogs, Pet Tips, Pet Advice, Frontline, Cat Care
About the Author:
By Renske Buursma, pet store owner with lots of helpful articles about pet care at http://yourhealthypetsonline.com
Many people believe that cats have their own agenda and don't pay much mind to their owners - as long as you give them plenty of food, water, toys and clean litter, that is. The truth is that while cats can surely behave in odd manners at times, making people laugh - and scratch heads at times, even. However, even though cat behavior may be somewhat confusing at times, here are some tips to help you learn more.
1. Cats enjoy playing. They like people to play with them, and they like to play with toys, especially string. They will pounce when playing, this is normal, so if you try to stop this behavior, your cat may turn negative and break things.
2. Cats like to push their heads into objects when possible, like couch and table legs, television stands, etc., sometimes people - like your house guests. And when the cat rubs his head against this person, he or she (the cat) may put a touch of saliva on the person, too, because in a cat's mind, he owns what he puts his saliva on.
3. Indoor cats enjoy spending a lot of time lying near a sunny window. While lying in this comfortable spot, the cat may make some very strange noises or incur some strange movements. But don't worry. The cat is basically acting out some natural hunting instincts. You see, regardless of whether another cat or some other animal, person or object outside of the window is moving around, the cat may see it and choose to go right into his natural hunting instinct mode.
The longer you are around cats or even own your cat, the more odd behaviors you will most probably spot or see him or her exhibit. Even though cats may behave in strange ways, they almost always have a reason for behaving the way they do. So if you take the time to learn more and to understand why your cat behaves like he does, you should hopefully have less or no problems in helping keep him or her happy and healthy.
Tip
If you just pay a little more attention to your cat and the way he or she behaves at times - you should be able to understand the behaviors better than ever before. Get more tips at: http://yourhealthypetsonline.com 24/7.
Article Tags: Cats, Pet Care, Cats And Dogs, Pet Tips, Pet Advice, Frontline, Cat Care
About the Author:
By Renske Buursma, pet store owner with lots of helpful articles about pet care at http://yourhealthypetsonline.com
How To Introduce A New Cat To Your Dog
Author: Joann Henry
Dogs and cats are said to be enemies but this is not true. A survey in 2002 said that over fifteen percent of every household in the United States had one dog or one cat at the very least. The survey also stated that almost fifty percent of each home that included a dog or cat actually had both a cat and a dog. That meant that half of all the dogs and cats in the world shared a home with the other species.
Behavior Issues Do Exist
Just because many families have a cat and a dog does not mean that there are no behavioral problems. Some family pets have fights that the owners have to break up and some even take their issues to a behavior consultant for assistance with these issues.
It is very rare that a dog will be scared of a cat because of its size compared to the cat, but many people allow their dog to bully their cat. There are some cases where the dog is smaller than the cat. In these cases the smaller pet may spend most of its time in fear. Often these pets spend the day hiding in the basement or under a bed. This can cause chronic illnesses and anxiety.
You should provide a safe, friendly introduction for the two species to keep their relationship friendly and healthy. If you have existing pets that are in fear of one another you should try to reintroduce them, if you are adding a new pet to your home you should start the relationship out on the right foot.
Things to Consider when Providing an Introduction
You need to decide which of the two pets are considered to be the main pet in your home. You then need to ask your self these kind of questions. What kind of past does this animal have with the other species? Have they ever been with the other species? How did they react when they were around the other species? This will help you to pick the right cat for your dog or the other way around.
The dog or cat you are thinking about bringing home, is it a friendly animal towards different types of animals? It is best to be on the cautious side when it comes to your cat. It's better to think your dog would injure the cat rather than the cat injuring the dog. You should take caution even if the new dog is said to be friendly with other cats. They are going to get a little bit territorial and we don't want anyone to get hurt.
When you introduce the animals to each other you need to have enough man power to keep both pets safe. You should keep your dog on a leash for the first introduction, and keep your cat under your control as well. Allow the pets to sniff each other, allow them to be near each other, but do not allow them to try to take over the situation. You need to make sure BOTH species knows you are the boss and they are guests in this situation. Do not allow either to be hurt. Let them know they are both there by choice but the choice is yours, not theirs. In the end spending some time with the two pets letting them get to know each other shouldn't take long and will save your family a lot of problems.
Article Tags: Dogs And Cats, Dog And Cat Living Together, Introduce Dogs And Cats
About the Author:
Joann Henry operates "Doggie Health Care", http://www.DoggieHealthCare.com a blog all about our pooches health. Sign up to receive her newsletter, & not only will you get some free tips to keep your dog healthier, but FOR A LIMITED TIME, she'll give you a FREE ebook. http://www.DoggieHealthCare.com
Dogs and cats are said to be enemies but this is not true. A survey in 2002 said that over fifteen percent of every household in the United States had one dog or one cat at the very least. The survey also stated that almost fifty percent of each home that included a dog or cat actually had both a cat and a dog. That meant that half of all the dogs and cats in the world shared a home with the other species.
Behavior Issues Do Exist
Just because many families have a cat and a dog does not mean that there are no behavioral problems. Some family pets have fights that the owners have to break up and some even take their issues to a behavior consultant for assistance with these issues.
It is very rare that a dog will be scared of a cat because of its size compared to the cat, but many people allow their dog to bully their cat. There are some cases where the dog is smaller than the cat. In these cases the smaller pet may spend most of its time in fear. Often these pets spend the day hiding in the basement or under a bed. This can cause chronic illnesses and anxiety.
You should provide a safe, friendly introduction for the two species to keep their relationship friendly and healthy. If you have existing pets that are in fear of one another you should try to reintroduce them, if you are adding a new pet to your home you should start the relationship out on the right foot.
Things to Consider when Providing an Introduction
You need to decide which of the two pets are considered to be the main pet in your home. You then need to ask your self these kind of questions. What kind of past does this animal have with the other species? Have they ever been with the other species? How did they react when they were around the other species? This will help you to pick the right cat for your dog or the other way around.
The dog or cat you are thinking about bringing home, is it a friendly animal towards different types of animals? It is best to be on the cautious side when it comes to your cat. It's better to think your dog would injure the cat rather than the cat injuring the dog. You should take caution even if the new dog is said to be friendly with other cats. They are going to get a little bit territorial and we don't want anyone to get hurt.
When you introduce the animals to each other you need to have enough man power to keep both pets safe. You should keep your dog on a leash for the first introduction, and keep your cat under your control as well. Allow the pets to sniff each other, allow them to be near each other, but do not allow them to try to take over the situation. You need to make sure BOTH species knows you are the boss and they are guests in this situation. Do not allow either to be hurt. Let them know they are both there by choice but the choice is yours, not theirs. In the end spending some time with the two pets letting them get to know each other shouldn't take long and will save your family a lot of problems.
Article Tags: Dogs And Cats, Dog And Cat Living Together, Introduce Dogs And Cats
About the Author:
Joann Henry operates "Doggie Health Care", http://www.DoggieHealthCare.com a blog all about our pooches health. Sign up to receive her newsletter, & not only will you get some free tips to keep your dog healthier, but FOR A LIMITED TIME, she'll give you a FREE ebook. http://www.DoggieHealthCare.com