Are You Abusing Your Cat?

By Ike Lowe

Do you do it out of ignorance?
Please allow me to educate you. This article could very well upset you but I urge you to read it in its entirety because your cat's life hangs in the balance.
The first thing you must understand is that the physiology of cats is very different from humans. Humans are omnivores - meaning that our bodies are well designed to digest fruits, vegetables and meats. Our bodies have long digestive systems therefore our bodies can extract nutrients from fruits, vegetables and meats and benefit from them.
Cats are obligate carnivores their bodies have a short, acidic digestive tract. Their bodies are well suited for digesting raw meat but they have difficulty digesting fruits, vegetables and processed carbohydrates. Prolong use of fruits, vegetables and processed carbohydrates will cause your cat to develop food related illnesses such as; diabetes and irritable bowel disease also known as IBD.
The commercial cat food companies sell large amounts of the cheaply produced, bagged dry cat foods. Cat caregivers purchase this food out of convenience and after viewing misleading ads produced by the commercial cat food companies. Their ads make you think that such things as; fruits, vegetables and large amounts of processed carbohydrates are beneficial to your cat.
When you enter a supermarket or other places that sell cat food and you see bags of cat food with fruits and vegetables on them, this gives you the false impression that since fruits and vegetables are good for humans, then they must be good for your cat. But this is a wrong and dangerous belief.
This is the same as taking a human that's been a vegetarian for many years and changing his diet to a strict meat-based diet. This would wreck havoc on his digestive system. It will cause constipation coupled with deterioration in his health and a premature death.
You do the exact same thing to your cat, an obligate carnivore, when you feed him/her foods their bodies were never designed to digest. Feeding those fruits, vegetables and processed carbohydrates is wrecking havoc on their digestive system and as a result, they are dying prematurely.
Although the commercial cat food companies are responsible for perpetrating these false beliefs on an unsuspecting public, you have the responsibility of ensuring that your cat's food is nutritional.
The commercial cat food companies do it for money. They are part of a multi-billion dollar, mostly unregulated pet food industry. You do it out of love for your cat. I know you really do believe that by feeding your cat what the commercial cat companies tell you is nutritional - is right but that is not true. Do you really know what goes into a bag of dry cat food?
Your cat could be a cannibal without you knowing it. Yes, dead dogs and cats have been known to find their way into pet foods. It is not uncommon for pet food companies to use the four D's (dead, dying, diseased, disabled) animals.
The four D's can include road-kill (dead animals found on the side of the roadways), euthanized animal from Veterinarian clinics, dying circus animals and ill farm animals that are not fit for human consumption and other animals that are riddled with cancerous tumors. You will find these ingredients listed on the bag as meat meal, animal digest, animal by-product or meat by-product.
It's as if the commercial cat food companies thought that the aforementioned toxic ingredients are not enough because to exacerbate the situation, they add known toxic preservatives.
In order to extend the shelf life of their foods, they use such deadly preservatives as; Ethoxyquin, BHA and BHT. All these preservatives have been linked to kidney and liver failure in cats.
How can any food that sits in a hot warehouse for twelve to eighteen months be considered nutritional?
It's time for you to break the strangle-hold the pet food companies have on you and your cats. You need to take control of their diets and stop feeding them foods that are harmful. This is not a difficult process. The one thing you must be cognizance of is the fact that cats are carnivores. They should be fed a meat-based diet and by doing so, you and your cat will have many years together.
About the Author: Ike Lowe, Researcher and Cat Nutrition Expert is avid about and writes extensively on proper cat nutrition. His unsurpassed nutritional knowledge boldly comes alive in his riveting must read book. "21 Nutritious Cat Food Alternatives the Commercial Pet Food Industry Hopes You Never Discover" He goes for the juggler of the commercial cat food industry exposing the horrible truth about the toxic ingredients causing premature cat deaths. Get the facts on proper cat nutrition and prevent your cat from a premature and painful death. click here http://www.whatiskillingourcats.com
This is a win win for you and your cat.
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Tags: cat, cat food, treating cat, training cat

How Safe Are Dog and Cat Vitamin Supplements?

By Dr. R.J. Peters
If your pet needs to take vitamins, or other dietary supplements, how can you be sure they are safe and effective?

It's the same question asked of human supplements, and just because they are approved by government agencies doesn't necessarily mean they are safe for a particular individual.

The same is true for pet products, but there are certain major differences when considering safety factors.

1. Probably the greatest concern arises from the fact that pet supplements have not been tested adequately. Very little data can be found in this area.

2. Only three nutrients are mentioned in the scientific papers at this time, namely, lutein, garlic and evening primrose oil, and then only in regard to dogs, cats and horses.

3. Studies to date have shown that certain supplements that are safe for humans are not always safe for animals. For example, garlic has not been proven safe for all animals.

4. So far, it has been difficult to study these products, because there are no systems in place to evaluate them. There needs to be a way to quantify dosages, active ingredients, and what's known as "adverse events," or, side effects.

5. There is little to no regulation in the animal dietary supplement manufacturing industry.

6. It's much more difficult to evaluate the more subjective aspects of a particular product. In other words, we can't ask a dog if he feels more energetic than he used to, or if he thinks he's sleeping better now.

7. There have been no studies of sufficiently large numbers of animals to identify any patterns of change or improvement in any area, except perhaps for obvious changes, such as coat condition (shinier, smoother, less shedding) or observable behaviors, such as irritability. Still, such changes cannot be claimed as significant without larger, controlled study groups to evaluate.

While there have been few, and inadequate, studies of pet supplementation by government agencies, such as the FDA (Food and Drug Administration), there have been many studies conducted by independent researchers. However, these have been criticized as biased or unscientific by the scientific community, and many of the same concerns as listed above apply.

What can you do to ensure your pet receives supplements that are safe and effective? At this time, the burden falls to the pet owner to do the homework. Consult with pet nutritionists, many of whom are veterinarians who have focused on these concerns and have their own clinical studies on which to base opinions.
To learn about one such independent study and the products that were developed from it, please visit http://www.everypetmatters.com/recommends/dogsupplements.html

Dr. RJ Peters also recommends exploring books and other materials on the subject. To get you started, visit http://www.theproblemcat.com/books.html

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Tags: cat, cat food, treating cat, training cat

Learn About Cat Beds And What Cat Bed Is Best

By: Martin Marks

Ecology is the science of relationships between organisms and their environments. When looking for cats, people have to consider a variety of aspects, such as the natural habitat or the environment. To make sure the environment at home is the safest for cats, owners have to make available certain things such as first aid kit for cats and play items for their recreational purpose.

Several people assume that since domestic and wild cats get enough water and food, cats may survive in cold climate because of their thick coats. Although, studies say that in harsh climate, shelter is preferred the most over any other needs. Without shelter, wild and domestic cats develop risk of possible dangers such as frozen paws and ears. Severe climate may harm their respiratory system too. Particularly, in the rains, fur of cats get wet and may cost them their lives.

Types of Shelter:

Styrofoam Cooler Shelter:

A general Styrofoam cooler may provide shelter to cats. This type of shelter is available at grocery stores and in departmental stores as well. It is also available at restaurants that obtain shipments of meat and fish filled in Styrofoam containers.

Plastic Bin Shelter:

Such type of shelter needs two plastic bins of Rubber made type, and they need to have lids of which one has to be big enough so that the lid and smaller bin fit inside it properly. Other than this, some straw for bedding along with a Styrofoam insulation of 4 by 8 foot is required.

Temporary shelter:

An abandoned or homeless cat may survive in a shelter made of commonly available items. A strong container or a heavyweight-shipping crate built with plastic and having resistance to bad climate is the ideal one.

Insulation and Bedding:

There are other ways for providing shelter to domestic cats. An insulating stuff inside the shelter house of cats gives their body the required heat and warmth. It is better to use straw for this purpose. Owners may avoid using towels, blankets or newspapers that suck the body heat of cats. In addition, owners need to change the insulating material for keeping it dry.

In cold climate, cat owners may use a Mylar blanket to line the floor or the interior walls of the shelter. Mylar imitates the body heat of cats. Mylar blankets are available at cheap prices. One more type of blanket that is available in pet stores is the Flexi-Mat Purr Pad.

Other Options to Buy Shelters:

Cat owners who have no time, skill or liking to build shelter for their cats, there is an alternative. Recently, pet stores offer cat shelters insulated with wood of superior quality. Cat owners willing to buy it may go through the web site of the store, for checking the price list or visit the nearest store.

Cats - Adaptability

Cats accommodate themselves in many places. May be an apartment, a mansion, camper or a houseboat, they get used to the environment easily. However, basic shelter requirements of cats include a litter box and provision of warmth. Owners can make available all the necessary items for cats, indoors.

About the Author

Go to Cat and Kitten Zone to get your free ebook about Cats and Kittens at Cats. Cat and Kitten Zone also has information on Kittens, Cat Supplies and a Cat and Kitten Forum where you can connect with others who love cats and kittens. You can Find Cat and Kitten Zone at www.catandkittenzone.com.

Published At: www.Isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=258113&ca=Pets

Tags: cat, cat food, treating cat, training cat

Keeping Your Cat Fit With a Cat Exercise Wheel

By Trevor Kassulke

Obesity is a problem with many cats these days. This is especially a problem for cats who stay indoors all the time and don't have a chance to exercise that often. If a cat has the opportunity to eat as much as it wants whenever it wants to this also can add to the problem. The best way to deal with obesity is to prevent it in the first place. One way to do this is to get your cat to exercise more often through the use of cat toys. One cat toy that is particularly useful for this is the cat exercise wheel.

This Wheel is just what it sounds like. It looks like an extra large version of the exercise wheels used by hamsters and other small animals. They are usually made of metal and measure between 36 and 48 inches in diameter. The one side of the wheel is open so the cat can get into the Cat Exercise Wheel and the other side is either solid or spokes depending on the manufacturer. The wheels with spokes also have a clear plastic piece you can put on that side if you are worried the cat would get hurt by the spokes.

The Wheel was created originally for use by Bengal cats, but any cat can use this type of exercise wheel. Most cats seem to like running on the wheel, but some are a bit unsure of it at first and might need to be coached on how to use it. There are a variety of videos on the internet of cats using a Cat Exercise Wheel if you are interested in seeing how these work and whether or not the cats appear to enjoy them.

If your cat is already obese, it could still benefit from the use of a Cat Exercise Wheel. Usually it is recommended that an owner try to help an obese cat slowly lose about 20 percent of it's weight through diet and exercise changes. A Cat Exercise Wheel is a great way to get your cat to exercise without having to constantly have to coax them with a cat toy. Just be careful not to try to force the cat to lose too much weight too quickly, as this can put the cat at risk for liver disease and other health problems. Slow weight loss is also the most likely to last, as is the case with people.

Trevor Kassulke owns and operates http://www.catcareguidance.com Cat Exercise Wheel Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Trevor_Kassulke

Tags: cat, cat food, treating cat, training cat

How to Stop Cat Scratching Problems

By Moses Wright

For many, understanding the reasons behind why cats need to scratch has remained an elusive mystery. From the wild cats of the jungle to the domesticated feline companion, scratching has been a means for survival. This predisposed instinct has unfortunately led to the untimely demise of our sofas, window screens, curtains and walls. In order to decide what the best methods for alleviating this problem are, you must first understand why it is done.

In the wilds of the mighty jungle, it was necessary for cats to be mighty hunters in order to survive. Cats instinctively used their claws as a means for support for climbing trees, giving them the opportunity to pounce on their unsuspecting prey. Razor sharp claws were required for hunting as well as fending off other predators. Today, the domesticated cat does not have to depend on their skills as a hunter as their food bowls are always full. However, the instincts to keep their nails hunter ready are still there.

Not only is the act of scratching a way to sharpen claws, it is also a way to trim them as well. In addition, cat scratching is significant in that it is used for the purposes of marking territory. When cats scratch a surface or object, they are also releasing a chemical that is marking their scent, letting other area cats, whether in the same household or general location know that this is their territory. Scratching is also a great way for cats to work out any muscle tension they may have or as a means to release excess energy.

The most common and frequently used method for deterring cats from scratching and damaging our possessions is to have them de-clawed. However, this method does require your cat to undergo anesthesia which comes with some minor risks. Before you make the decision to de-claw, there are other alternatives available for consideration.

Scratching posts are an excellent choice for giving your cat his own personal area to scratch. They are available at pet stores and online. They can come as part of a fancy cat condo or as single models in many colors and styles. A scratching post can also be cost effective as it is a simple project you can create yourself. All that is required is a two foot tall section of a four by four combined with a two foot by two foot section of durable plywood and a small piece of carpeting.

Another inexpensive item available for cat scratching is scratching mats. Regardless of which you choose it is important that you place it as close to your cat's favorite scratching area at first. After your cat has become accustomed to using the post instead of your furniture or walls, gradually move it away from those areas.

Another option for discouraging your cat from scratching where you don't him too is by using a pet repellant spray. All that is required is a quick spray on the area you wish your cat to stay away from. This product, most commonly referred to as Bitter Apple spray, is an unpleasant tasting liquid that gets on their paws after scratching and they do not like the taste.

Although this method is effective, it is wise to test a small area of carpet or upholstery to ensure the repellant does not alter the material in any way. Some additional helpful hints include wrapping the areas in aluminum foil or placing tape on the area, sticky side up. Cats definitely do not like anything sticking to their paws.

As a final result, many people have tried using nail caps. Just as a manicurist would place faux nails on your fingers, these caps are placed on a previously filed down nail using a pet friendly adhesive. Of course, just as faux nails do, these caps also tend to fall off.

If you have tried every alternative and your cat still can not break this habit, surgery may be the only answer. Weighing the positives and negatives to each of the methods, along with consulting a veterinarian will help you make the right decision for both you and your cat.

Moses Wright is a cat lover and likes to help new cat owners learn more about their cat breed. You can find more resources on cat illnesses symptoms and treatments and cat behavior at his site.

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Tags: cat, cat food, treating cat, training cat

Cat Furniture - The Indispensable Element in a Cat Lover's Home

By Anne Moss

Cat furniture? The very term may be puzzling for some people. Why on earth would you need a sofa, a chair or a table for a cat?

However, among cat lovers, it has a become common enough phrase. In fact, the concept of cat furniture has gained in popularity, with more people shopping for a cat tree, a cat bed and even cat condos. Not to mention scratching posts, now considered a mandatory item in the cat owner's household.

Why More Cat Furniture?

A major shift in responsible cat care has taken place over the past two decades: more cats than ever spend their entire life living indoors only. These felines never leave the comfort of their homes, unless traveling to the veterinary clinic in a secure cat carrier. And "comfort of their homes" is more than just a figure of speech in this case.

Raising cats indoors-only has brought on changes relating to cat nutrition, vet care, entertainment and more. By the same token, owners of cats invest more than ever in various items of cat furniture, to create purrfect environments for what they consider to be their "furbabies".

So, why cat furniture for the indoors-only cat household? Let's review the two main advantages of cat furniture.

Cat furniture Can Add space

When we look at a room and try to estimate its size, we tend to look at its width and length, thus measuring its floor space.

Things look different from a feline perspective: you can actually make a room larger, if you take into account the room's height and make good use of vertical space.

The taller units of cat furniture can do just that, adding more surfaces on various levels, in effect creating space where none existed before.

Cat Furniture Can Trigger Exercise

Living indoors is safe and comfortable. It also means a lack of the intense stimuli of outdoors life; and the absence of the intense physical activity associated with having to hunt for food.

Moreover, with owners being away from home for long hours, many cats simply get bored. The result? a cat that sleeps more, gets less exercise and is prone to becoming overweight.

This is where a sturdy, complex set of cat furniture, perhaps decorated with some hanging cat toys, can help. Jumping up, running across beams, climbing, or simply stretching, can all help to keep a cat more active and thus healthier.

Even More Benefits

It doesn't end with exercise and added space. Cat furniture can help in creating a unique environment for your cat, where she may feel safer. Being out of reach of small children, or simply having a nest up on her cat tree, can all add to a cat's sense of security.

Cat furniture can even be an aesthetic addition to your household. A practical and decorative statement which says loud and clear: cats are part of our family.

This article is copyrighted to the writer. You may re-publish it on your website as long as the resource box at the bottom remains intact and with active links. Any other use of this article, in full or in part, is forbidden.

Shop online for cat furniture at Meowhoo.com's Cat Furniture section, or get the latest recommendations on the Cat Shopping Blog - Furniture Category.

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Tags: cat, cat food, treating cat, training cat

How Do I Know If My Cat Has a Feline Urinary Tract Infection?

By Janet Markowitz
Does this describe your cat's behavior: frequent urination, no urine at all, urine with a foul odor, or blood in the urine? These are common, even life threatening, symptoms and signs of cat urinary tract infection. Immediately take your kitty to the vet if you have noticed any of these signs. The difference between life and death for your pet depends on your ability to recognize the symptoms early and get treatment.

It is important to know your cat's normal urinating patterns. If your cat is using the litter box more or less often than usual, this is a sign that there could be an infection. There is a test you can do at home to check for a feline UTI. You can do a simple pH test before the cat feels the pain. You'll save time, money, and be helping to determine if your kitty needs veterinarian care. Kitty won't have to experience the sometimes traumatic visit to the vet.

Begin checking your cat's pH by placing either a little aquarium gravel or some non-absorbent kitty litter into a clean litter box. Only enough for kitty to scratch around is necessary and will keep kitty content.

Next, confine your pet with this litter box in a quiet room, so kitty feels secure. You should do this close to your cat's elimination schedule. For more accurate results, check the sample as soon as the cat urinates.

As soon as kitty has used the litter box, dip a urine pH strip into the specimen. Gently shake off excess, then read and compare the test strip to the chart that accompanied the strips. A level of 6.6 to 6.8 means you pet is healthy. If the results are higher or lower, consult your veterinarian immediately.

BEWARE: This type of test if greatly affected by when your cat last ate. For this reason, retesting might be necessary. For best results, check you cat's pH soon after it has eaten. A later test may read high. If the test strip reads normal, then you have no worries. If there is a difference, take kitty to the vet quickly.

This is a simple, cost effective, and kitty sensitive way to check for feline urinary tract infection. Though this process is simple, the possibility of infection is a serious matter to handle quickly for the safety of your feline companion.

Janet Markowitz has been a German Shepherd Breeder for over 20 years. She has always been interested in using natural and holistic remedies for her Shepherds whenever possible. She has found that by using natural Remedies in conjunction with conventional medicine, she has achieved great success in the health and longevity in her dogs.
Janet Markowitz has been a German Shepherd Breeder for over 20 years. She has always been interested in using natural and holistic remedies for her Shepherds whenever possible. She has found that by using natural Remedies in conjunction with conventional medicine, she has achieved great success in the health and longevity in her dogs.

http://www.PetsNaturalRemedies.net

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Tags: cat, cat food, treating cat, training cat

Cat Health Insurance For Your Cat's Health Needs

By Lara Lee
Before you opt for your cat's health insurance, you need to consider certain things. Going for your cat's health insurance can save you a lot of money. In case if your cat falls ill and requires some major treatment or encounters some fatal accident.
While choosing a plan, you need to take into account many factors. These include your financial circumstances, your living environment, if you have other pets as well then which veterinary service you require etc. To begin with, if you already have a vet, you need to know which pet health insurance companies he accepts. This is because most of them go with specific companies.
Other than this, you need to see as to what procedure a particular plan involves. You may want the services of the specialists be covered by your plan. You would also like to compare the cost along with the coverage it offers; it should be a good deal and worth the cost. You need to opt for the coverage that you seek for and also evaluate if it is worth the money you are going to spend.
Moreover, you also need to know if prescription medicines are covered in the plan which mostly are not; companies seek extra charges for this. You should keep in mind that your coverage may only include the expenditure of the prescription only, and not the charges of the equivalent office appointment to your vet.
One can never be sure as to which insurance plan is the most cost effective. It is necessary to opt for the health insurance of your cat regardless of what you have to pay in return. It will at least provide you with peace of mind for the rest of the year pertaining to the health issues of our cat.
The best thing to do is to have good research and evaluate various cat health insurance options. This will help you to act vigilantly. If your cat's health is perfect, may be you do not have to get an insurance at this point. If she is old or unhealthy then it is advisable to get one straight away.Click here to read everything you needs to know about pet insurance.
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Arctic Cat Parts - Keep Popular Cat Snowmobiles in Top Shape

By Donald Brooks
Artic Cat parts are available at brick and mortar dealers and online warehouses. The Artic Cat snowmobile has long been a popular snow sled that has millions of devoted fans throughout the world. With its catchy feline model names such as, Black Panther, Thundercat, FireCat, SaberCat and Jaguar, Artic Cat snowmobiles have captured the imagination of snow sled enthusiasts for almost fifty years. With such treasured investments, snowmobilers will be well advised to purchase genuine Artic Cat parts.

New, OEM Artic Cat parts will produce the best performance and increased horsepower for your premium snowmobiles. These high performance snow sleds offer exciting and fun filled ways to discover, and appreciate the great outdoors. Many snowmobilers have traversed through frozen lakes, snow packed trails and deep powder, combining thrills with a newfound discovery of wintery landscapes. Keeping these sleds operational with authentic Artic Cat parts is vital to a safe and enjoyable ride.

Artic Cat parts and snowmobiles remain on the cutting edge of snowmobile technology, featuring unique laydown engines, twin-spar chassis and the environmentally friendly 4-stroke parallel twin engine. When on the trail, it is a good idea to pack extra Artic Cat parts in case of breakdowns that can be remedied with a quick part replacement. Snowmobile experts recommend a repair kit stocked with the necessary tools, extra spark plugs, belts and assorted bolts and screws.

New Artic Cat parts and snowmobiles for the upcoming year are expected to be turbocharged offering an extra kick of horsepower approaching levels past 177. These super premium machines are expected to lead the way in the next generation of snowmobile design. With its environmental concerns and advances in racing technology, Artic cat parts, snowmobiles and ATVs are sure to continue to dominate the winter sports market.
To start looking for the right arctic cat parts for your sled stop by Snowmobile Home. You can still find great deals on used arctic cat parts before the winter season!

Donald Brooks lives in Minnesota and is a winter sports enthusiast. He writes articles about Snowmobiling and other winter sports for various internet publications.

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Tags: cat, cat food, treating cat, training cat

Why Does My Cat Pee Everywhere?

By Ian White
Whether your cat is old or young, male or female, anxious or mellow, he or she can get the idea that peeing anywhere but the litterbox is a good thing. Many frustrated humans in the past and present have tried nearly everything to figure out why the cat does this - and, of course, to solve the problem.

Here are the first things that you should do when your cat insists on stinking up your house. You'll have to be patient while you work your way through this list, but soon your kitty will be back to doing his or her business in an appropriate place.

Your cat needs a full health checkup. In many cases, cats pee right in front of you when they're sick. A urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the most common health problems, which your vet can treat. Even if that's not what's wrong with your kitty, your vet can track down, and solve, the problem.
Cats who are older or who have health problems (joint pains, for example), can't get in and out of the litterbox like they could when they were younger. Make the litterbox more accessible so that your kitty can get in and out.
The litterbox itself might be a problem. If you have more than one cat, you might need to put out additional litterboxes. The type of litter and how much of it you use can be problems. You should also change the cat litter and thoroughly scrub the litterbox. The plastic tends to absorb urine smells, which can turn off housecats.
Sometimes cats will act out by peeing all over your favorite things. This can be a sign that they're unhappy about something. Try giving your cat more (positive) attention. Extra playtime with his favorite toy can cure the behavioral issue. You can also ask your vet about a product that will help soothe your kitty: Feliway is one example.
Tomcats often spray anything that they wish to mark as their own territory. Sterilization can improve this problem.
Elderly kitties can suffer from feline dementia. They honestly don't realize that they're doing something wrong when they pee all over your clean laundry. Buy housebreaking pads - the disposable kind that people use with puppies - and put them down where your kitty pees the most often. This won't convince her to use the litterbox, but cleanup will be much easier compared to what you're doing now.


You should do a few things when your kitty decides to mark something in your house.

Never hit the cat or rub her nose in the mess. Cats aren't like human children: they don't understand that what they do is wrong. You can deter behavior as the cat is doing it, but trying to teach the cat after the fact doesn't work very well. Instead of scolding kitty afterward, catch her in the act and spritz her with tap water from a spray bottle.
Completely clean the marked territory. Even if you can't smell the cat pee, the cat will. That's her sign to continue peeing there. Visit the pet store for a product that removes all of the pet odors.
Give your cat plenty of positive attention. Despite the stereotypes that surround felines, cats do bond with their humans. They want our attention and will go to great lengths to get it from us.

Don't worry: you'll track down and solve the problem soon enough. In the meantime, be as patient as possible. Your solution will come and you can resume the carefree relationship

Copyright © 2008, Ian White housesitting.com
Author Ian White is founder of housecarers Housesitting directory

Cats are happier in their own environment. Pet friendly alternative to catteries or cat boarding.

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Tags: Cat Attacks, Cat Bed, cat food, Cat Health Care, cat history, cat insurance, Cat Nutrition, Cat Pictures, cat toy, Cat Training, Cats, Pets

Tips on Giving Your Cat Food For Urinary Tract Health

By Ann Matthews
It's unbelievable what you'll find in commercial cat food these days. In fact, I think it's ridiculous to call it food at all. Commercial cat food consists mostly of synthetic fillers and grains because they are cheap. As a result of eating such low-quality food, your cat can develop urinary problems because the pH level of his urine is altered and the mineral content in his urine increases. If you want to give your cat food for urinary tract health, steer clear of commercial cat food.

Of all commercial cat food, dry food is the worst. It is grainy and can alter the pH of your cat's urine, making it easier for bacteria to flourish in the urinary tract. It can also cause the formation of bladder stones because of its high magnesium content. If you want to keep your cat healthy, give him urinary tract health cat food.

You might be wondering what cat food for urinary tract health is. If you want to help your cat have a healthy urinary tract, give him raw, unprocessed food and homemade food. These foods contain no preservatives or artificial ingredients such as flavoring and coloring. You will also want to make sure he gets enough water to drink in order to flush out all of the harmful bacteria and keep his urine from thickening.

What else can you give your cat besides urinary tract health cat food? Cranberry juice and Vitamin C are very helpful in preventing and treating urinary tract problems. Cranberry juice prevents bacteria from adhering to the lining of the bladder and it acidifies the urine. Vitamin C is a natural anti-inflammatory and it strengthens bladder lining.

You may also want to sprinkle a homeopathic remedy into cat food for urinary tract health. Homeopathic remedies are very effective in treating and preventing urinary problems in cats. They are 100% safe and natural and help your cat maintain a healthy bladder, urinary tract, and urine flow.

When it comes to urinary tract health cat food that is free of artificial ingredients should be given to your cat on a regular basis. Don't just wait until your cat starts to show symptoms of a problem to help him lead a healthier lifestyle. Make all natural, unprocessed food the centerpiece of his regular diet if you want to prevent problems in the future. The same goes for homeopathic remedies, which are effective as treatment but most effective as a preventive step.

Your goal? Take this information and use it to help you plan a healthy diet and lifestyle for your kitty. The hands down best way to treat and prevent urinary problems in cats is by giving them cat food for urinary tract health along with a homeopathic remedy. Make these steps a regular part of your cat's routine to help him achieve optimal urinary tract health.
If you want to make sure you are giving your pets the best health care available, please take time to read more about the many natural alternatives at my site: http://www.natural-pet-treatment.com

BIO: Ann Matthews is a long time pet health enthusiast with Pet Alive who has a real passion for the well-being of all pets

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Tags: cat, cat food, treating cat, training cat

Cat Health Tips - How Do the Experts Provide Vaccinations to Their Cats

By Paul Kramer
Many serious, even potentially fatal, illnesses can be prevented by vaccination. Some inoculations are compulsory while some are optional, but it is essential that you check with your veterinarian for the best course of preventive medicine.
It is essential that you visit the veterinarian and get a complete check up for your new cat, including the vaccinations and preventive medical procedures described by your veterinarian.
All cats are susceptible to, and must be immunized against, several serious vital and bacterial diseases. These are feline infectious enteritis (FIE), also known as panleukopenia, an often fatal infection of the intestines, causing loss of appetite, fever, vomiting and diarrhea; feline calicivirus (FCV), an infection that causes respiratory tract disease similar to a human cold; andfeline rhinotracheitis (FVR), also known as cat flu.
It is highly recommended that the initial vaccinations for these be given at 8 and 12 weeks of age, preferably using the modified live vaccine, available in either injection form or nose drops.
Exceptions to the above schedule are when you have an orphan kitten who is not building up immunities from his mother's milk, or if you have a large colony of cats and want them to be protected earlier.
After your kitten has been vaccinated twice against FIE, FCV, FVR and Chlamydia, a highly contagious bacterial disease, he will not require another booster of these vaccines until he is a year old.
It is compulsory for all cats to be immunized against a number of diseases. If you are acquiring a cat, be sure to check that, as with the Ocicat, all vaccinations are in order. Although there are some vaccinations that are compulsory for all cats, it is important that you talk to your veterinarian about any others your cat may require, depending on his breed, whether he is an indoor or an outdoor cat and the environment to which he is exposed.Want Tips On Maintaining Your Cat Health? All You Have To Do Is Click http://www.CallPetMeds.com Now!
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Keep Your Cat Safe From Accidents With Cat Diapers

By Ilse Hagen

Many people treat their pets like their very own babies. They dress their pets, play with them, groom and feed their pets only the best pet food. A cat is one of the cutest pets that you can ever have. They can provide you with years and years of loving companionship without demanding time and maintenance like dogs would. This is why it's a crushing experience when your cat experiences a health problem. Urinary and bowel problems are some of the common health disorders that felines go through. Fortunately, you can use cat diapers while you are in the middle of seeking treatment for your cat. If your cat has recently undergone surgery and still has not regained complete control over her bowels or bladder, then a diaper might also come in handy.
Kitties as babies
Cat diapers may sound like a bizarre idea but they are actually real, and very necessary. Basically, they resemble normal diapers except for a few features that make them feline-friendly. For instance, a feline diaper has a hole that is especially cut out for the tail. A feline diaper also features non-stick fasteners so you don't have to worry about ripping out your cat's fur when you put on and take off the diaper. If you have a cat that is on the pudgy side then you might also want to get a diaper that has a stretchable or adjustable waist band. You may also choose to shell out a few extra bucks if you want other features like a deodorizing feature, etc.
Make life easier for you and your cat
Buying cat diapers for your bladder control-challenged pet can certainly make life easier for you and her. Without a diaper, you will risk the possibility that your cat may pee or poo in your polished floors or lush carpets.Important information
Complete information on cat diapers is available at PickyGuide, the authority in free consumer advice. Access top-ranked, best-reviewed, and most competitively priced diapers in PickyGuide's recommended products section.
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Origin and History of the House Cat

By Doris J Canova
Formerly, it was carelessly thought that our house cats were simply the progeny of tamed pairs of the European wildcats; but anatomy has denied the probability of this and historical investigation shows that they came from another source. Historical evidence, which includes innumerable mummies, shows that the cat was domesticated by the Egyptians before the time of the oldest monuments of their civilization.
Moreover, the characteristic specific markings of the caffrc cat (still wild as well as tame in the Nile Valley) reappear unmistakably in our common house cats in spite of the fact that interbreeding with other species has intervened. A well-marked variety of this cat, known as the Mediterranean cat, was and is found in ancient times as well as now in Syria and eastward. It is established that many centuries before the Christian era the Egyptians, Cretans, Phoenicians and other men of the Levant were constantly voyaging all over the Mediterranean Sea. They were busy founding trading-posts on both its shores, where finally arose and spread the extensive civilizations of Greece and Rome on the north, and of Carthage on the south.
With these colonists undoubtedly went their friendly and useful mousers. That they then were crossed somewhat with the native wildcat seems to be shown by the appearance of the peculiar form we call "tabby" cats. In brief, this is the history of the common European house cat and also those of America and most of the civilized world because of immigration. However, in the remote and isolated East exists races of domesticated cats of more local origin. Prof. G. Martorelli, of Milan, Italy, made a special study of this whole subject and he has concluded that the ordinary domestic cat of India has descended from the Indian desert cat.
From it, he says, are derived their common spotted breed, while the fulvous breed seen in India has been produced by a cross with the native jungle cat. Both these have interbred with the imported western cats in recent years. The Persian or ''Angora" long-haired breeds may probably have come from the Pallas' cat of central Asia; and the curious Siamese cat is regarded as derived from the golden cat. Whether accidentally or by the design of breeders, intermingling of these various species and races has produced the bewildering variety of forms now seen.
NOTE: This article is for information only. See your veterinarian for medical advice.We plan to post articles that are informative and helpful to other cat lovers. Having been "owned" by cats for years, we know they can be demanding, but also be very entertaining and fun.
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Are You Feeding Your Cat Safe Cat Food?

By Christine Pinkston
You probably think that since your cat's food has not been recalled that it is safe for your cat to eat. This is not necessarily true. Many store bought cat foods are so bad for your cat that they are actually hurting him.
The majority of store bought cat foods have no nutritional value in them at all. What's worse is that they may actually contain poison. You don't want your cat to eat poison? Well one of the many meat sources for cat food is dogs and cats that have been put down at the pound. The problem with this is (other then the obvious that your cat is not a cannibal) is that the poison they use to put the animals down does not cook out when they cook the meat.
Not only do they use poisoned animals, but any flea collars they might have on or collars with metal id tags that are on the animal get ground up as well. They also use any road kill that can't be buried as a meat source. When they process meat at processing plant any parts of the cow that are not edible for humans goes in a big barrel. This includes any parts of meat with puss, cancer, or other disease's.
So that leaves us with dead, dying, or diseased animals for the meat source and the meat by products are even worse. It's no wonder that most cats don't even live half of their natural life expectancy.The more I looked into the ingredients of store bought cat food the more appalled I became, to the point that I did not even want to touch my cats food to feed it to him.
In order to give your cat a safe diet that will allow him to get the nutrition he needs to grow strong and healthy a combination of homemade cat food and safe commercial cat food is recommended.
Cat Food Secrets will give you a safe, easy way to combine homemade food and commercial food, show you what commercial food is good for your cat, and help you to help your cat live his life to the fullest potential. Don't let your cat be a victim to commercial cat food learn more about Safe Cat Food.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Christine_Pinkston