Author: Moses Wright
Cats, like any other animals will suffer from common diseases and illnesses. Many of them are not life threatening and can be cure easily by your local veterinarian. On the other hand, there are also diseases that are terminal and most often fatal.
On the top of the list of common afflictions a cat can get is hairballs. Hairballs occur as the result of cats performing their everyday grooming routine. Loose hair and debris collect in quantity on the cats tongue and are then swallowed into the stomach. When there, these elements become lodged and eventually form a round ball of mucus.
Typically, a cat can dislodge the hairball by coughing, but on occasion one may become lodged in the intestines creating a serious and sometimes life threatening situation. Regular grooming, specialty cat food and cat treats along with visits to the veterinarian are all great ways to both prevent and treat this common ailment.
Just like humans, cats are prone to urinary tract infections as well. The cause for this ailment can be infection and poor quality food. The good news is this ailment is treatable with medication prescribed by a veterinarian. It is also preventable by providing specially formulated cat food created to prevent this infection from occurring.
If a urinary tract infection is present, common symptoms are that your cat may show signs of infrequent urination, fowl smelling urine, and urinating in places other than the litter box. Males cats that have not been spayed are usually the ones that are most easily affected; however, female cats can be affected as well.
Common Cat Viruses - The three common viruses that felines are prone to suffer from; Feline Leukemia, Feline Infectious Peritonitis and Feline Immune Deficiency Virus. FIP or Feline Infectious Peritonitis is a very dangerous illness as it is related to the Corona Virus. Testing for FIP is also a problem as the results are not completely reliable. A positive test result has the possibility for being false as the same results appear for the Corona Virus. There is a vaccination available for FIP; however, many vets believe that such results are still debatable. With no known cure, it is extremely beneficial that this disease is not as easily contracted as some other diseases may be.
The feline version of the AIDS Virus known as FIV has not yet proved to be fatal. However, many owners are left in doubts and fear that they are susceptible to catch the diseases as well. This belief is false and truly unwarranted.
Feline Leukemia Virus is another disease that is preventable. A vaccine is available from a veterinarian's office and must be acquired before exposure to other infected cats has occurred. If you own a cat with FLV it is highly recommended that you do not expose him to other cats. Cats with FLV have a short life expectancy.
Common Cat Worms Problem - In addition to hairballs being one of the most common afflictions in cats, worms are another. Tapeworms, hookworms and roundworms are all cause for immediate concern. Although heartworms are not commonly found in cats, they can be a source of problems.
Medications are available from the veterinarian that will assist in preventing these nasty parasites from making a home in your cat. Signs of worm infestation cam come with flea infestation or as tiny white specs appearing in the stool, almost resembling a grain of rice. Weight loss or having difficulty gaining weight is a sign of worm infestation as well. This illness is fortunately one that comes with a treatment and it is usually an affordable one. However, if this infestation goes without treatment, the results are most commonly fatal.
Fleas and ticks are another form of common diseases, cats that spend time outdoors are known for contracting. The tick however brings another illness to the table, Lyme disease. If a tick has been found on your cat's body, symptoms of possible Lyme disease include lethargy, sluggish movement and acting as if in constant pain. This disease is also able to be transmitted to humans by ticks as well. If you have an inkling that your cat has contracted this disease or should you find a tick on his body, a check with the vet will help in the removal of the tick and medication will help in treatment.
Last, but certainly not least is feline obesity. This disease affects other parts of a cat's body and is a serious, potentially fatal ailment. It is also the number one cause for feline Diabetes. As usual, prevention is the best cure in preventing such illnesses. Providing a proper diet in combination with exercise is essential in the fight to keep your cat healthy. Luckily, cats with diabetes do live, but need to be put on a special dietary supplement as well as medication.
The most important thing you can do to defend your cat against common illnesses and disease is to remember that prevention is the key.
------
Moses Wright is a pet lover and loves to help new pet owners deal with their pet problems at home. You can also find cat problems and solutions on his site.
This article is free for republishing
Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_215397_54.html
Cat health - A good cat nutrition
Author: hafizsteen
NUTRITION
A BALANCED DIET
Like all animals, the domestic cat needs a diet that is properly balanced and contains all the essential nutrients in the correct quantities. These nutrients are water, protein, fat, carbohydrate, minerals and vitamins.
The wild members of the cat family, such as the lion, tiger, cheetah and European wild cats, are carnivores. Between them they hunt and kill a wide variety of other animals, ranging in size from small lizards and birds to large antelopes. They don’t just eat the meat or muscle, but consume all, or almost all, of their prey, including the skin, hair or feathers, and the internal organs such as liver kidneys and intestines. Their diet therefore contains a substantial amount of animal protein, and supplies them with all the other essential nutrients that they require.
To remain healthy, domestic cats also require a diet containing animal protein. This is because they need a particular amino acid (one of the blocks of protein) called taurine, which helps to prevent heart and eye diseases. Taurine is plentiful in animal protein, but only present in small amounts in plant protein.
While dogs are able to manufacture the amino acid taurine within their body, cats can only manufacture a little, and it is not enough to meet their needs, and plant protein cannot supply them with enough to make up the shortfall. Therefore, although a pet dog could remain healthy if fed properly balanced vegetarian diet, a cat could not. For this reason cats are known as obligatory carnivores; they must eat some animal protein on a daily basis in order to survive
WATER
Water is the most important element in a cat’s diet. Whereas most animals can survive after losing up to half of their protein and stored fat, in a cat, even a 10 per cent loss of total body water will cause serious illness, and a 15 percent loss will result in death. Animals can ingest water in 3 ways. They drink it, eat food that contains it, and their body manufactures some water as a by product during the chemical processes involved when converting proteins, fats and carbohydrates into energy.
The daily amount of water required by a cat is roughly the same amount (in mililitres) as its energy requirement (in kilocalories). A sedentary cat needs a daily intake of about 65-70ml (roughly four tablespoons) water for each kilogram of body weight, while an active cat needs about 85ml (roughly six tablespoons).
PROTEIN
Protein occurs in animals (animal protein) and in plants (plant protein). There are many different types of protein, each of which contains a particular combination of amino acids, the substances that provide the materials needed for the growth and repair of all body tissues.
Proteins vary in their digestibility. The most digestible are those contained in foods derived from animal sources, such as meat, eggs and cheese. The least digestible are those contained in foods derived from plants, such as grains and vegetables. Most domestic cats consume a diet containing a significant amount of animal protein. They do eat some plant material, either in the stomach and intestines of prey that they catch, or by voluntarily eating specific plants such as grass, but plant protein is a comparatively unimportant part of the domestic cat’s diet.
When a cat eats grass it is probably doing so to consume fibre and as an aid to digestion. Quite often a cat will vomit soon afterwards, bringing up a bolus of grass mixed with mucus, so eating grass may be a useful method of getting rid of excess mucus from the cat’s stomach.
FATS
Fats and oils contain substances called fatty acids, some of which play an important role in helping to maintain internal body functions and a healthy skin. They also act as carriers for the fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E and K).
Fats are concentrated form of energy (for a given weight, fat provides more than twice as many kilocalories (kilojoules) as carbohydrates or protein).
If the diet that a cat consumes contains more energy than the cat needs, the excess is converted into fat that is stored in various parts of the body, such as under the skin and around the intestines. This stored fat acts as a fuel store that can be drawn upon in times of need.
CARBOHYDRATES
Carbohydrates occur in plants and include sugars, starch and cellulose. There are various types of sugars, among which are sucrose and glucose. These are two of the simplest sugars and therefore more easily digested. Cow’s milk contain the milk’s sugar lactose, but many adult cats are unable to digest lactose properly – for this reason specially formulated lactose reduced or lactose-free milk is available for cats from pet food stores and supermarkets. For cats, one of the most useful sources of dietary carbohydrate is rice.
MINERALS
Like other animals, the cat needs to consume many different minerals to ensure that its body process function normally. Some are required in comparatively large amounts, while others, known as trace elements, are only required in very small quantities. Two of the most important minerals for felines are calcium and phosphorous, which are involves in the formation and growth of bones and teeth. Minerals also play an important role in the growth and repair, skin and hair. They are also required in the formation of red and white blood cells, and in various digestive processes.
VITAMINS
Certain vitamins are essential for the proper working of body processes. Four of them, vitamins A, D, E and K, are soluble in fat, so fats and oils provide a good dietary source. Vitamin E plays an important role in normal muscle function, vision and reproductive processes. Vitamins of the B-group, and vitamins C, are soluble in water. The B-group vitamins have a variety of functions associated with the metabolism of amino acids, fats or carbohydrates. Vitamin C I involved in wound healing, preventing haemorrhages from small blood vessels (capillaries) and maintaining healthy skin. As in humans, vitamin C is important in the prevention of scurvy. Cats, like dogs, have the ability to manufacture this vitamin within their bodies and, unlike humans, they don’t need a source of vitamin C in their diet.
FIBRE
Derived from plant materials (often ingested along with prey), fibre does not provide a cat with any nutrients but it does play a very important role in digestion. It acts as a bulking agent, absorbs any toxic by products of the digestive processes, and increases the rate of passage of food through the gut
For more interesting cat care and health tips, please visit my blog at:-
http://cuteycats2u.blogspot.com/
Cuteycats2u.blogspot.com is a highly entertaining and informative blog containing useful cat care and training advises, funny cat videos, cute cat pictures and cat stories. Have fun!!
This article is free for republishing
Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_226317_54.html
NUTRITION
A BALANCED DIET
Like all animals, the domestic cat needs a diet that is properly balanced and contains all the essential nutrients in the correct quantities. These nutrients are water, protein, fat, carbohydrate, minerals and vitamins.
The wild members of the cat family, such as the lion, tiger, cheetah and European wild cats, are carnivores. Between them they hunt and kill a wide variety of other animals, ranging in size from small lizards and birds to large antelopes. They don’t just eat the meat or muscle, but consume all, or almost all, of their prey, including the skin, hair or feathers, and the internal organs such as liver kidneys and intestines. Their diet therefore contains a substantial amount of animal protein, and supplies them with all the other essential nutrients that they require.
To remain healthy, domestic cats also require a diet containing animal protein. This is because they need a particular amino acid (one of the blocks of protein) called taurine, which helps to prevent heart and eye diseases. Taurine is plentiful in animal protein, but only present in small amounts in plant protein.
While dogs are able to manufacture the amino acid taurine within their body, cats can only manufacture a little, and it is not enough to meet their needs, and plant protein cannot supply them with enough to make up the shortfall. Therefore, although a pet dog could remain healthy if fed properly balanced vegetarian diet, a cat could not. For this reason cats are known as obligatory carnivores; they must eat some animal protein on a daily basis in order to survive
WATER
Water is the most important element in a cat’s diet. Whereas most animals can survive after losing up to half of their protein and stored fat, in a cat, even a 10 per cent loss of total body water will cause serious illness, and a 15 percent loss will result in death. Animals can ingest water in 3 ways. They drink it, eat food that contains it, and their body manufactures some water as a by product during the chemical processes involved when converting proteins, fats and carbohydrates into energy.
The daily amount of water required by a cat is roughly the same amount (in mililitres) as its energy requirement (in kilocalories). A sedentary cat needs a daily intake of about 65-70ml (roughly four tablespoons) water for each kilogram of body weight, while an active cat needs about 85ml (roughly six tablespoons).
PROTEIN
Protein occurs in animals (animal protein) and in plants (plant protein). There are many different types of protein, each of which contains a particular combination of amino acids, the substances that provide the materials needed for the growth and repair of all body tissues.
Proteins vary in their digestibility. The most digestible are those contained in foods derived from animal sources, such as meat, eggs and cheese. The least digestible are those contained in foods derived from plants, such as grains and vegetables. Most domestic cats consume a diet containing a significant amount of animal protein. They do eat some plant material, either in the stomach and intestines of prey that they catch, or by voluntarily eating specific plants such as grass, but plant protein is a comparatively unimportant part of the domestic cat’s diet.
When a cat eats grass it is probably doing so to consume fibre and as an aid to digestion. Quite often a cat will vomit soon afterwards, bringing up a bolus of grass mixed with mucus, so eating grass may be a useful method of getting rid of excess mucus from the cat’s stomach.
FATS
Fats and oils contain substances called fatty acids, some of which play an important role in helping to maintain internal body functions and a healthy skin. They also act as carriers for the fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E and K).
Fats are concentrated form of energy (for a given weight, fat provides more than twice as many kilocalories (kilojoules) as carbohydrates or protein).
If the diet that a cat consumes contains more energy than the cat needs, the excess is converted into fat that is stored in various parts of the body, such as under the skin and around the intestines. This stored fat acts as a fuel store that can be drawn upon in times of need.
CARBOHYDRATES
Carbohydrates occur in plants and include sugars, starch and cellulose. There are various types of sugars, among which are sucrose and glucose. These are two of the simplest sugars and therefore more easily digested. Cow’s milk contain the milk’s sugar lactose, but many adult cats are unable to digest lactose properly – for this reason specially formulated lactose reduced or lactose-free milk is available for cats from pet food stores and supermarkets. For cats, one of the most useful sources of dietary carbohydrate is rice.
MINERALS
Like other animals, the cat needs to consume many different minerals to ensure that its body process function normally. Some are required in comparatively large amounts, while others, known as trace elements, are only required in very small quantities. Two of the most important minerals for felines are calcium and phosphorous, which are involves in the formation and growth of bones and teeth. Minerals also play an important role in the growth and repair, skin and hair. They are also required in the formation of red and white blood cells, and in various digestive processes.
VITAMINS
Certain vitamins are essential for the proper working of body processes. Four of them, vitamins A, D, E and K, are soluble in fat, so fats and oils provide a good dietary source. Vitamin E plays an important role in normal muscle function, vision and reproductive processes. Vitamins of the B-group, and vitamins C, are soluble in water. The B-group vitamins have a variety of functions associated with the metabolism of amino acids, fats or carbohydrates. Vitamin C I involved in wound healing, preventing haemorrhages from small blood vessels (capillaries) and maintaining healthy skin. As in humans, vitamin C is important in the prevention of scurvy. Cats, like dogs, have the ability to manufacture this vitamin within their bodies and, unlike humans, they don’t need a source of vitamin C in their diet.
FIBRE
Derived from plant materials (often ingested along with prey), fibre does not provide a cat with any nutrients but it does play a very important role in digestion. It acts as a bulking agent, absorbs any toxic by products of the digestive processes, and increases the rate of passage of food through the gut
For more interesting cat care and health tips, please visit my blog at:-
http://cuteycats2u.blogspot.com/
Cuteycats2u.blogspot.com is a highly entertaining and informative blog containing useful cat care and training advises, funny cat videos, cute cat pictures and cat stories. Have fun!!
This article is free for republishing
Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_226317_54.html
More than One Way to Skin a Cat: Adventures in Creative Thinking
Author: Deanna Mascle
How many times have you caught yourself saying that there could be no other solution to a problem – and that that problem leads to a dead end? How many times have you felt stumped knowing that the problem laying before you is one you cannot solve. No leads. No options. No solutions.
Did it feel like you had exhausted all possible options and yet are still before the mountain – large, unconquerable, and impregnable? When encountering such enormous problems, you may feel like you're hammering against a steel mountain. The pressure of having to solve such a problem may be overwhelming.
But rejoice! There might be some hope yet!
With some creative problem-solving techniques you may be able to look at your problem in a different light. And that light might just be the end of the tunnel that leads to possible solutions.
First of all, in the light of creative problem-solving, you must be open-minded to the fact that there may be more than just one solution to the problem. And, you must be open to the fact that there may be solutions to problems you thought were unsolvable.
Now, with this optimistic mindset, we can try to be a little bit more creative in solving our problems.
Number one; maybe the reason we cannot solve our problems is that we have not really taken a hard look at what the problem is. Here, trying to understanding the problem and having a concrete understanding of its workings is integral solving the problem. If you know how it works, what the problem is, then you have a better foundation towards solving the problem.
Not trying to make the simple statement of what problem is. Try to identify the participating entities and what their relationships with one another are. Take note of the things you stand to gain any stand to lose from the current problem. Now you have a simple statement of what the problem is.
Number two; try to take note of all of the constraints and assumptions you have the words of problem. Sometimes it is these assumptions that obstruct our view of possible solutions. You have to identify which assumptions are valid, in which assumptions need to be addressed.
Number three; try to solve the problem by parts. Solve it going from general view towards the more detailed parts of the problem. This is called the top-down approach. Write down the question, and then come up with a one-sentence solution to that from them. The solution should be a general statement of what will solve the problem. From here you can develop the solution further, and increase its complexity little by little.
Number four; although it helps to have critical thinking aboard as you solve a problem, you must also keep a creative, analytical voice at the back of your head. When someone comes up with a prospective solution, tried to think how you could make that solution work. Try to be creative. At the same time, look for chinks in the armor of that solution.
Number five; it pays to remember that there may be more than just one solution being developed at one time. Try to keep track of all the solutions and their developments. Remember, there may be more than just one solution to the problem.
Number six; remember that old adage," two heads are better than one." That one is truer than it sounds. Always be open to new ideas. You can only benefit from listening to all the ideas each person has. This is especially true when the person you're talking to has had experience solving problems similar to yours.
You don't have to be a gung-ho, solo hero to solve the problem. If you can organize collective thought on the subject, it would be much better.
Number seven; be patient. As long as you persevere, there is always a chance that a solution will present itself. Remember that no one was able to create an invention the first time around.
Creative thinking exercises can also help you in your quest be a more creative problems solver.
Here is one example.
Take a piece of paper and write any word that comes to mind at the center. Now look at that word then write the first two words that come to your mind. This can go on until you can build a tree of related words. This helps you build analogical skills, and fortify your creative processes.
So, next time you see a problem you think you can not solve, think again. The solution might just be staring you right in the face. All it takes is just a little creative thinking, some planning, and a whole lot of work.
Find more inspirational messages and quick inspirations at http://bestinspirationonline.com/
This article is free for republishing
Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_205150_24.html
Occupation: writer/teacher
Teacher, coach, and writer Deanna Mascle is a Renaissance Woman Online who published four ezines and three newsletters as well as maintaining several web sites that reflect her experience and interests.
http://RenaissanceWomanOnline.com
How many times have you caught yourself saying that there could be no other solution to a problem – and that that problem leads to a dead end? How many times have you felt stumped knowing that the problem laying before you is one you cannot solve. No leads. No options. No solutions.
Did it feel like you had exhausted all possible options and yet are still before the mountain – large, unconquerable, and impregnable? When encountering such enormous problems, you may feel like you're hammering against a steel mountain. The pressure of having to solve such a problem may be overwhelming.
But rejoice! There might be some hope yet!
With some creative problem-solving techniques you may be able to look at your problem in a different light. And that light might just be the end of the tunnel that leads to possible solutions.
First of all, in the light of creative problem-solving, you must be open-minded to the fact that there may be more than just one solution to the problem. And, you must be open to the fact that there may be solutions to problems you thought were unsolvable.
Now, with this optimistic mindset, we can try to be a little bit more creative in solving our problems.
Number one; maybe the reason we cannot solve our problems is that we have not really taken a hard look at what the problem is. Here, trying to understanding the problem and having a concrete understanding of its workings is integral solving the problem. If you know how it works, what the problem is, then you have a better foundation towards solving the problem.
Not trying to make the simple statement of what problem is. Try to identify the participating entities and what their relationships with one another are. Take note of the things you stand to gain any stand to lose from the current problem. Now you have a simple statement of what the problem is.
Number two; try to take note of all of the constraints and assumptions you have the words of problem. Sometimes it is these assumptions that obstruct our view of possible solutions. You have to identify which assumptions are valid, in which assumptions need to be addressed.
Number three; try to solve the problem by parts. Solve it going from general view towards the more detailed parts of the problem. This is called the top-down approach. Write down the question, and then come up with a one-sentence solution to that from them. The solution should be a general statement of what will solve the problem. From here you can develop the solution further, and increase its complexity little by little.
Number four; although it helps to have critical thinking aboard as you solve a problem, you must also keep a creative, analytical voice at the back of your head. When someone comes up with a prospective solution, tried to think how you could make that solution work. Try to be creative. At the same time, look for chinks in the armor of that solution.
Number five; it pays to remember that there may be more than just one solution being developed at one time. Try to keep track of all the solutions and their developments. Remember, there may be more than just one solution to the problem.
Number six; remember that old adage," two heads are better than one." That one is truer than it sounds. Always be open to new ideas. You can only benefit from listening to all the ideas each person has. This is especially true when the person you're talking to has had experience solving problems similar to yours.
You don't have to be a gung-ho, solo hero to solve the problem. If you can organize collective thought on the subject, it would be much better.
Number seven; be patient. As long as you persevere, there is always a chance that a solution will present itself. Remember that no one was able to create an invention the first time around.
Creative thinking exercises can also help you in your quest be a more creative problems solver.
Here is one example.
Take a piece of paper and write any word that comes to mind at the center. Now look at that word then write the first two words that come to your mind. This can go on until you can build a tree of related words. This helps you build analogical skills, and fortify your creative processes.
So, next time you see a problem you think you can not solve, think again. The solution might just be staring you right in the face. All it takes is just a little creative thinking, some planning, and a whole lot of work.
Find more inspirational messages and quick inspirations at http://bestinspirationonline.com/
This article is free for republishing
Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_205150_24.html
Occupation: writer/teacher
Teacher, coach, and writer Deanna Mascle is a Renaissance Woman Online who published four ezines and three newsletters as well as maintaining several web sites that reflect her experience and interests.
http://RenaissanceWomanOnline.com
De-clawing Your Cat
Author: D Beart
Removing your cat’s nails is not the only choice in your battle against cat scratching. There are many alternatives to this surgical procedure.
The claws of a feline serve many purposes, most of which are overlooked y owners who just want to protect their belongings. Claws are not just a device for scratching. They are a multi-purpose tool that cats use for many things, such as balance, climbing, defense, kneading, playing, and self-expression.
The act of de-clawing itself involves more than you may think. De-clawing not only removes the nail itself, but also the first knuckle on each toe of the paw. This removal of bone is very painful for the animal, especially since it has to walk on its paws in order to sustain itself. The surgery itself is related to disfiguring, dismembering, and disjointing the animal, resulting in severe pain. It is much more closely related to an amputation, as often the digits of the toe are removed. Upon removal of this end digit, sensory and motor nerves are cut and destroyed; they do not grow back for months. The cat is left to walk on the stub end of the remaining second digit, experiencing considerable pain.
Understanding the physiology of the cat may make this horrific the process easy to comprehend. Cat’s nails are unlike those of humans. They are more similar to the human finger, as the feline nail is a movable digit, attached by muscle. Ligaments and tendons attach to the claw, giving it strength and motor function.
There are several alternatives to the procedure of claw removal:
• Scratching Posts. If scratching furniture is the problem, provide your cat with an adequate scratching post for which to scratch on. Make sure it is as tall as your cat at extended stretch. Do not purchase carpeted posts as your pet will have a hard time differentiating between what carpet she can and cannot scratch. Praise your pet when she uses the post to encourage the behavior.
• Discourage Wrongful Behavior. Each time your cat uses the scratching post, praise her and spend time playing with her near the post. When the animal scratches at the wrong area, say her name followed by the word “no,” and move her to the post. Try dangling a toy in front of the post. When the cat goes for it, she will end up scratching and playing at the post.
• Trim the Claws. Keeping the nails clipped will minimize the need for her to scratch, as well as lesson any damage she can do. Use clippers especially made for cats, and enlist the help of a second person to hold her still. This can be done once per week.
• Nail Covers. Plastic nail caps have been manufactured to aid cat lovers in their attempts to protect their belongings. The plastic sheaths are attached to freshly trimmed claws with glue. They are replaced every month, or as needed.
De-clawing your cat is unnecessary if the proper measures are taken. In fact, the United States and Canada are the only countries where this procedure is performed. It is considered inhumane or illegal in most places.
This article is free for republishing
Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_241182_54.html
David Beart is the owner of http://www.professorshouse.com . This site covers a wide selection of topics including relationships, family, cooking and other household issues.
http://www.professorshouse.com/
Removing your cat’s nails is not the only choice in your battle against cat scratching. There are many alternatives to this surgical procedure.
The claws of a feline serve many purposes, most of which are overlooked y owners who just want to protect their belongings. Claws are not just a device for scratching. They are a multi-purpose tool that cats use for many things, such as balance, climbing, defense, kneading, playing, and self-expression.
The act of de-clawing itself involves more than you may think. De-clawing not only removes the nail itself, but also the first knuckle on each toe of the paw. This removal of bone is very painful for the animal, especially since it has to walk on its paws in order to sustain itself. The surgery itself is related to disfiguring, dismembering, and disjointing the animal, resulting in severe pain. It is much more closely related to an amputation, as often the digits of the toe are removed. Upon removal of this end digit, sensory and motor nerves are cut and destroyed; they do not grow back for months. The cat is left to walk on the stub end of the remaining second digit, experiencing considerable pain.
Understanding the physiology of the cat may make this horrific the process easy to comprehend. Cat’s nails are unlike those of humans. They are more similar to the human finger, as the feline nail is a movable digit, attached by muscle. Ligaments and tendons attach to the claw, giving it strength and motor function.
There are several alternatives to the procedure of claw removal:
• Scratching Posts. If scratching furniture is the problem, provide your cat with an adequate scratching post for which to scratch on. Make sure it is as tall as your cat at extended stretch. Do not purchase carpeted posts as your pet will have a hard time differentiating between what carpet she can and cannot scratch. Praise your pet when she uses the post to encourage the behavior.
• Discourage Wrongful Behavior. Each time your cat uses the scratching post, praise her and spend time playing with her near the post. When the animal scratches at the wrong area, say her name followed by the word “no,” and move her to the post. Try dangling a toy in front of the post. When the cat goes for it, she will end up scratching and playing at the post.
• Trim the Claws. Keeping the nails clipped will minimize the need for her to scratch, as well as lesson any damage she can do. Use clippers especially made for cats, and enlist the help of a second person to hold her still. This can be done once per week.
• Nail Covers. Plastic nail caps have been manufactured to aid cat lovers in their attempts to protect their belongings. The plastic sheaths are attached to freshly trimmed claws with glue. They are replaced every month, or as needed.
De-clawing your cat is unnecessary if the proper measures are taken. In fact, the United States and Canada are the only countries where this procedure is performed. It is considered inhumane or illegal in most places.
This article is free for republishing
Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_241182_54.html
David Beart is the owner of http://www.professorshouse.com . This site covers a wide selection of topics including relationships, family, cooking and other household issues.
http://www.professorshouse.com/
Common Illnesses in Cats
Author: Drew Pilton
1. Hip dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a common concern among Ragdoll owners. Although there are no recorded cases, the possibility is high because of the Ragdoll’s bulk and weight distribution. It’s important to get a written health guarantee from your breeder to make sure your cat is safe.
2. Feline hypertrophic myopathy
A more serious condition is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a thickening of the heart muscle common in many cat breeds. Feline HCM is potentially life-threatening, and in many cases the disease is only discovered when the cat dies at a young age. Studies have shown that HCM is inherited, and runs along several Ragdoll lines. Although it can occur at any age, it is more likely to occur in older cats who would otherwise have passed the disease on to offspring.
3. Constipation
Ragdoll cats normally pass waste one to two times a day. Less frequent or difficult bowel movements are usually a sign of constipation. A constipated cat will frequently run to the litter box but strain to pass stools, sometimes crying or licking the anal area. Lethargy and loss of appetite are also common symptoms. Advanced constipation can cause your cat to vomit liquid faeces.
Although occasional constipation is not a cause for concern, frequent constipation may require medical attention. Chronic constipation may be caused by underlying problems, such as digestive obstruction. This can be as simple as string or hairballs, or something more serious such as a tumour. In either case, the blockage can harden and enlarge the colon, which leads to painful bowel movements.
If your cat is chronically constipated, have him or her checked by your vet immediately. Surgery may be necessary to remove tumours and blockages. These can easily be removed when detected early, but they can be fatal if allowed to develop or spread.
4. Dental problems
A cat’s mouth creates a warm, moist environment conducive to bacterial growth. Bacteria and tartar can build up on your cat’s teeth, and without occasional brushing, this can lead to gum disease or periodontitis. Usually, the only symptoms are toothache and exposed roots, which are hard to detect.
To ensure good dental health, brush your cat’s teeth regularly. It may take two to three weeks for your cat to get used to regular brushing, but it will keep bacteria and harmful microorganisms at bay. You should always use special cat toothpaste; human toothpaste is too strong for regular cat use. Giving them high-quality dry food to chew on can help keep the teeth clean between brushings.
Drew is the writer of 'The Complete Ragdoll Cat Keepers Handbook, to find out more visit:
http://www.ragdoll-cat-care.com
This article is free for republishing
Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_185155_54.html
Occupation: Electrical Engineer
Drew is an engineer and internet marketer. He specializes in niche marketing and computer care and security. To know how to keep your PC secure and in tip top condition read his articles or visit http://www.registry-cleaner-magic.com/error-doctor/
http://www.ragdoll-cat-care.com
1. Hip dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a common concern among Ragdoll owners. Although there are no recorded cases, the possibility is high because of the Ragdoll’s bulk and weight distribution. It’s important to get a written health guarantee from your breeder to make sure your cat is safe.
2. Feline hypertrophic myopathy
A more serious condition is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a thickening of the heart muscle common in many cat breeds. Feline HCM is potentially life-threatening, and in many cases the disease is only discovered when the cat dies at a young age. Studies have shown that HCM is inherited, and runs along several Ragdoll lines. Although it can occur at any age, it is more likely to occur in older cats who would otherwise have passed the disease on to offspring.
3. Constipation
Ragdoll cats normally pass waste one to two times a day. Less frequent or difficult bowel movements are usually a sign of constipation. A constipated cat will frequently run to the litter box but strain to pass stools, sometimes crying or licking the anal area. Lethargy and loss of appetite are also common symptoms. Advanced constipation can cause your cat to vomit liquid faeces.
Although occasional constipation is not a cause for concern, frequent constipation may require medical attention. Chronic constipation may be caused by underlying problems, such as digestive obstruction. This can be as simple as string or hairballs, or something more serious such as a tumour. In either case, the blockage can harden and enlarge the colon, which leads to painful bowel movements.
If your cat is chronically constipated, have him or her checked by your vet immediately. Surgery may be necessary to remove tumours and blockages. These can easily be removed when detected early, but they can be fatal if allowed to develop or spread.
4. Dental problems
A cat’s mouth creates a warm, moist environment conducive to bacterial growth. Bacteria and tartar can build up on your cat’s teeth, and without occasional brushing, this can lead to gum disease or periodontitis. Usually, the only symptoms are toothache and exposed roots, which are hard to detect.
To ensure good dental health, brush your cat’s teeth regularly. It may take two to three weeks for your cat to get used to regular brushing, but it will keep bacteria and harmful microorganisms at bay. You should always use special cat toothpaste; human toothpaste is too strong for regular cat use. Giving them high-quality dry food to chew on can help keep the teeth clean between brushings.
Drew is the writer of 'The Complete Ragdoll Cat Keepers Handbook, to find out more visit:
http://www.ragdoll-cat-care.com
This article is free for republishing
Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_185155_54.html
Occupation: Electrical Engineer
Drew is an engineer and internet marketer. He specializes in niche marketing and computer care and security. To know how to keep your PC secure and in tip top condition read his articles or visit http://www.registry-cleaner-magic.com/error-doctor/
http://www.ragdoll-cat-care.com