Cats and Kittens

Cat Alarm Clock

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 26 Nov 2007 05:41:00 -0800

This is absolutely funny!

Playful Cats

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 24 Aug 2007 23:27:00 -0700

It's fascinating to watch cats at play. Their speed and agility never cease to amaze me. There is a reason why cats love to play. When cats play, they are actually practicing the necessary skills they will carry out when hunting. If you closely observe, you will notice that a cat will sneak up, pounce, try different attacks and defenses, seize prey, follow it,or flee as if it were followed. It is crucial that you encourage your cat to play on a daily basis. Single cats that are kept in a house or apartment often suffer from severe boredom and you as a cat owner must make an effort to do something about it.

Therefore it is very important to play with your cat but only if your cat is up to it. Cats often become more lively in the late evening and will make it obvious that they are ready to play with you. My tabby,just loves when I play hide and seek with him. He also loves to have various toys that he uses to hone his hunting skills. Playing with your cat not only sharpens his hunting skills but it's also essential for weight control,bonding and helping your cat to develop stamina, agility and muscle tone. For more great information CLICK HERE

Fat Cat Criminal

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 30 Jun 2007 16:38:00 -0700

After four months of quickly diminishing cat food, a woman found a fat cat breaking in for the free food after he got stuck on the owners pet door. The pudgy puss was taken into the Humane Society where he weighed in at 20 pounds. Enjoy the video:)

WHAT'S THE DEAL WITH CATS AND CATNIP?

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 15:34:00 -0700

Have you ever seen a cat when it encounters catnip? It will sniff it, rub against it, lick it and it will finally eat it. Then thats where the fun begins. The cats starts to go on a natural high. The following article explains what is catnip and why is it that cats go crazy for it. Enjoy :)

Why Cats Flip For Catnip
By Andrew Markison

If you’ve ever watched as a cat "flipped" over fresh catnip perhaps you’ve been struck with the question; "what causes Catnip to affect cats that way?" Catnip is indeed an unusual phenomenon among cats, it has the ability to alter your cat’s behavior like nothing else can. So what exactly is the reason for what scientists have coined as "the Catnip effect"?

Unfortunately for such inquisitive minds the exact reason of why Catnip affects cats in such a manner remains mostly a mystery. There is however much that we do know about Catnip and cats even if we don’t have the ultimate answer of exactly "why?" yet answered.

The Science Stuff

Catnip is scientifically classified as Nepeta cataria and is a perennial herb from the mint family and is in fact also referred to as "Catmint". It is a plant indigenous to Europe but has been exported and is now found all over including the United States and Canada.

The active ingredient in Catnip is an oil; Nepetalactone, which is found in the leaves of the plant. This is the reason you are able to find Catnip in a bottle or spray form in some pet stores.

Other Uses For Catnip

Catnip is not only good to stimulate activity in cats, it can also be used by humans as an herb for a medicinal tea which may soothe toothaches, help against coughs, and may also perform as a sleep aid. Furthermore, Catnip can be used as an herb on salads or other foods as has been the case for centuries in France. Lately Catnip has also been garnering favor as a natural insect repellant rivaling the effectiveness of many store bought varieties of repellant.

Catnip and Kitty

Catnip affects approximately half of all cats. What determines whether or not a cat will react to Catnip is a genome that is inherited (or not inherited as the case may be) at birth. Kittens, regardless of whether or not they carry this genome, do not react to Catnip until reaching about 3 or 4 months of age and becoming sexually mature. Older cats are also more likely to have a diminished or non-existing reaction to Catnip, which leads scientists to believe that the Catnip effect is based at least partially on sexuality and that the reaction may be something like an aphrodisiac. Further adding to this belief is the similarity of a sexual pheromone found in the urine of the male cat to nepetalactone (the active product in Catnip).

Cats that can be traced to regions where Catnip is not indigenous appear to be unaffected by Catnip. The domesticated housecat is not the only cat that may be affected by Catnip. Larger cats can also be affected by the Catnip effect, felines such as the bobcat, lynx, tiger and even lion are known to react much the same way the common housecat would. It is interesting to note that while Catnip can act as a stimulant when a cat sniffs it, it can conversely act as a relaxant if ingested. Therefore, you may see a different, nearly opposite result depending on whether your cat chooses to eat the Catnip you provide for him/her or merely sniffs it (the latter being the more typical behavior).

How to Use Catnip With Your Cat

Catnip can prove to be a very useful tool for a few common problems with your cat. If you are lucky enough to have a cat that does react favorably to Catnip then here are a couple of ideas for you and your furry little friend.

Catnip and Lazy Cats:

Catnip can be used to get a lazy cat off his or her butt. Some cats are notoriously lazy, choosing to sleep much of their day away in a nice golden patch of sunlight on the living room carpet, only waking up to eat and gather some necessary attention from their indulgent owners. If this sounds like your cat, you may soon see (if you haven’t already) that your cat is becoming more and more round. This is generally not a good thing. Catnip may be able to help. Presenting catnip to your cat encourages activity (of course provided the cat sniffs rather than eats the herb).

Many adult cats will respond to Catnip in a manner that resembles their childlike kitten hyperactivity, jumping, playing and running around as if it was given an injection of kitty adrenaline, which in essence, is the case. The effect of Catnip on a cat can last somewhere between two and fifteen minutes. If the latter is the case, then this is a decent amount of exercise and will help keep your cat a little more svelte than without a Catnip treatment. Furthermore, if you leave the Catnip out for a few hours then your cat may return to the herb later (an hour or two after the effect has worn off) and again react in an energetic fashion. So in this sense you may consider Catnip sort of like a kitty energy drink.

Catnip and Cats That Scratch Furniture:

If you have a cat that seems bent on the destruction of your furniture then Catnip may again be able to come to the rescue. Cats can be frustratingly picky about just about anything under the sun including where they want to sharpen their furniture destroying claws. It is not uncommon for a cat to damage or destroy a piece of furniture just because the owners finally gave up on trying to redirect their cat to the unused cat scratching post that set them back anywhere up to a hundred dollars and more. A good way to attempt to change this frustrating and expensive behavior is to rub some Catnip or Catnip oil on a scratching post that you are attempting to get the cat to use. Introduce your cat to the newly "Catnipped" scratching post and see how he/she reacts. If all goes well, your cat will sniff and inspect the post and then begin clawing at it. After a few times (you may have to re-Catnip the post) hopefully kitty will be trained to use the post rather than the sofa.

Using Catnip with Multiple Cats

If you’ve never used Catnip before and you have more than one cat it is advisable to try it out individually on each cat before introducing it to all of your cats at the same time. The reason is because Catnip affects some cats in a negative manner causing the cat in question to become aggressive rather than merely playful. Introducing it to your cats individually enables you to control the situation and keep a cat that may react aggressively isolated from your other cats. This of course means avoiding a possible catfight that could result in broken furniture, hurt kitties (possibly requiring a vet visit), annoyed neighbors (and probably owners), or a combination of all of the above.

Growing and Keeping Catnip

Growing your own Catnip can be rewarding as it can save you money, give you the satisfaction of doing something yourself and ensuring that you always get fresh, high-quality Catnip for your cat. A word of caution however; the exact kitty reaction you want to grow your own Catnip is something to be wary of. If you plan on growing your Catnip out of doors and other cats can access your Catnip garden then be prepared for unwelcome feline visitors. This may not be a problem for you personally, but cats are by nature territorial and if you have a cat that lives alone without the company of other cats this could prove to be an area of stress for your cat. Even if you keep your cat inside at all times, your cat may get agitated if he/she looks out the window to see another cat frolicking in territory your cat considers his or her own. If you choose to grow your Catnip indoors, be careful to keep it out of reach of kitty. Otherwise you’ll likely have Fluffy jumping up on furniture even to the most out of the way place to get access to the tempting herb. Cats are great jumpers and not really known for respecting precious household knick-knacks. So if you do decide to grow it indoors for a cat that reacts to Catnip, be careful to grow it in a place that your cat won’t be able to access it. A room that you always keep closed to the cat is probably the best solution for indoor grown Catnip.

If you do find that your cat reacts positively to Catnip you should be sure to use it sparingly so as not to dull the effect which can be the result of overexposure. A good rule of thumb is to not treat your kitty more than once a week on average to Catnip.

Given all the positive effects that Catnip may have on your cat you owe it to yourself (and naturally your fluffy little ball of affection) to see how he/she reacts to this strange and well known herb. It will provide enjoyment and exercise for your cat and most likely an entertaining show for yourself as well. It’s a win win situation.

Andy Markison is an illustrator, graphic designer, animal lover and pet owner living in Germany. His website, ZapGraphix.com, sells fun and humorous pet related merchandise.

Playful Cats

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 26 Oct 2006 16:08:00 -0700


Here is a delightful video of cats having fun. I hope you enjoy watching the video:)

Choosing A Toy For Your Cat

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 24 Oct 2006 17:14:00 -0700

Most cats love to play and, in fact, play time is important for cats. Cats need play for exercise, socialization, to stimulate intellectual growth, to develop coordination and balance and to learn how to properly interact with humans and other cats. The following article provides great information on choosing the correct type of toys for your feline buddy. Enjoy:)

Toys For Your Cat By Daniel Moore

Is your cat getting fat, lazy, and bored?
Cat toys are a great way to keep your cats occupied and entertained. They arouse the cat's curiosity and the cat spends considerable time chasing, mangling, twisting, and playing with the toys. The toys that excite them most are usually those that make sounds, swing on strings, or are easy to catch. Cats have a limited attention span, however. It therefore makes sense to rotate out the toys on a weekly to monthly basis. Otherwise your cat will lose interest.
Toys need not be bought from the pet stores alone. You can create an endless number of cat toys at home. There are a number of household objects that may appeal to your cat's fancy; these include toilet paper rolls, plastic milk bottle rings, plastic drinking straws, aluminum foil balls, Popsicle sticks, pipe cleaners, cardboard boxes and even walnuts!
You should, however, carefully examine each item, and reject the ones that have sharp edges. You should also avoid small objects that could be swallowed, objects that tear easily, or those which could stain. These can sometimes cause injuries to your cat.
Pet shops, of course, have a variety of toys, and these are generally safer. These include line-based toys (which have an object dangling from a rod or a string for your cat to chase), and wire-based toys (based on the principle that cats love to chase birds). These flying toys make for good fun. Also popular are 'bat and swat' toys, which come in an array of shapes, colors, sizes, and patterns. You can choose from a fluffy pom-pom to a simple Ping-Pong ball. A major advantage with the bat and swat toys is that your cat can use it on its own; you don't have to be around to entertain it.
Catnip toys can also be highly entertaining to cats. However, these toys should never be given to a kittens less than four weeks of age, as catnip can have a hallucinatory effect. Always ensure that the catnip you buy is fresh, otherwise it could lead to serious health complications for your cat. Fresh organic catnip toys can frequently be found at arts-and-craft shows and cat shows.
Some of the most popular toys among cats are those shaped like rats, insects, birds, or other small creatures; these add a hint of realism to the sport and can stimulate even the laziest cat into action.
About the author

Daniel Moore writes for several web sites, on home and family and family improvement topics.

Finding The Best Collar For Your Cat

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 23 Oct 2006 15:42:00 -0700

Finding The Ideal Cat Collar By: Mary Amos

If your cat goes outside its a really good idea to use a collar. It lets other people know that the cat has a home, and if your cat should stray or get lost then the contact details on the collar will have you re-united with your cat in no time.

Deciding what cat collar to buy can be a more difficult choice than you think. Do you go with a flea control collar, a reflective collar, an elasticated collar, a buckle on collar, or no collar at all.

Do flea collars really work? My experience has been that they, but they dont hurt either so we can look at form and fit. Fit is the most important consideration when buying a cat collar. If the collar is too tight it can cut off the cats air and blood supply. Choking your cat is not a good thing! If its too loose the collar can get caught up on branches and fences while your cat is out playing. Cats have an uncanny knack of getting out of any collar thats too loose. For kittens and still growing cats youll want an adjustable collar to allow for some growth, but make sure you check the fit on a regular basis.

Most collars have 2 methods of fastening around the cats neck. You have the traditional buckle style which is easy to put on and take off but the buckle can break. Then there is the slide through adjustable kind. This is a more secure way of fastening but its also more difficult to adjust, especially if you have a cat that doesnt like having a collar on.

Most cat collars come with an elasticated or a breakaway section. This is a safety feature that allows your cat to escape the collar if it becomes stuck on bushes or fences. It helps avoid strangulation as well as being trapped. Even though a smart cat can figure out how to escape its collar, this is an important safety feature that you should seriously consider. Along these lines buy a collar made of a material that can be easily cut through in emergencies.

Another feature you may consider is a reflective strip in the cat collar. This can be helpful at night especially in areas that have a lot of traffic. The number one killer of cats is traffic so give the driver every chance to see your cat, especially if its a dark colored cat.

Many collars come with bells or some other noise making device. This is designed to warn potential prey animals that your cat is out hunting. The idea behind these is to avoid your cat bringing home gifts and presents, especially ones that are still alive! In the main these devices are ineffective and its usually best to remove them so theres less to get caught up in bushes and fences.

If you have an indoor cat that you would like to introduce to the great outdoors, try buying a cat harness and attach a leash. You should first practice with this indoors until the cat becomes accustomed to it. The next step, take the cat for walks, to the park, to the beach, or to Aunty Janes house! You can train your cat to use the leash but it will take some time, practice and a lot of patience.

About the author

Mary Amos is a cat love and long time cat owner. Find more articles and resources at
catsuppliesweb.com

Is Your Cat Fat?

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 22 Oct 2006 17:56:00 -0700

Do you own an overweight cat? Are you looking for answers on how to help your feline friend how to lose weight? Did you know that obesity in cats is very common and can predispose the cat a host of illness's? These and other questions are answered in this very informative article. Happy reading :)

Feline Obesity

By: M. Nikole Hunn

Many cat owners have the habit of over

Does your cat polish your floor with his stomach as he walks? Is his food bowl bigger than your head? Do you grunt when you try to pick him up? Does he bounce when he lands on the floor? Do you spend more on his food bill than your own?

People see fat cats as subjects of humor. They make cartoons with cute captions, manipulate photos into amusing cards, and crack jokes about their rotund companions. As harmless as it seems, obesity in our feline companions is not a joke. The health risks are very real. For nearly 40% of American cats, their lives will be shortened by years due to this preventable problem.

All cat owners should know if their cat is obese, what problems are associated with obesity, what causes obesity, and how to fix the problem.

So how do I know if my cat is obese?

Obesity is commonly defined as being more than 20% above the ideal weight. How that ideal weight is determined, however, isn't always cut and dried. Unlike humans, who have Body Mass Index and other various charts to guide them, there isn't an established chart of acceptable weights for cats due to the large variations between the different breeds. A Maine Coon will be much heavier than a Siamese. For this reason, obesity in cats is determined using body condition scoring. Body condition scoring usually ranges from 1 to 9, with 5 being ideal and 9 being grossly overweight.

So how can you tell if your cat's too fat? Feel his sides. Can you feel his ribs? A little fat covering is ideal. You should be able to feel his ribs if you put slight pressure on his sides, but you shouldn't be able to count them just by running your hand over his body. Look at him while you're standing above him. Can you see his waist? Yes, cats should have a waist. Look at him from the side. Do you see his tummy tucking in a bit? It shouldn't be wobbling around in the breeze (in neutered animals, a slight pouch of loose skin is normal).

For long-haired cats, it may be helpful to wet down their fur in the bathtub to judge their body condition. All that fur can give the illusion that the cat is much heavier than it really is, or provide a great excuse to the owner for why her cat looks fat.
(See the links following this article for an illustrated chart to help you.)

So He's Fat. Is It That Dangerous?

The short answer: YES.

The long answer: a list of known risks. Obese cats have a much higher risk of developing:

diabetes mellitus (sugar diabetes)
hepatic lipidosis / FLS (a form of liver disease)
arthritis or other skeletal problems
lower urinary tract disease ('cystitis')
breathing difficulties
heart failure
renal disease
problems with anesthetics
surgical complications

But He Doesn't Eat THAT much...

Excess weight is all about eating more calories than the body needs. If your cat is neutered, he uses less calories. If he's a barn cat, he uses a lot more calories. The more active he is, the more calories he needs. Most of us have indoor cats that lay around much of the time. They're not using energy to stay warm; they're not hunting for their food. They don't need to have a big bowl of food laying around to munch on 24 hours a day.

When humans diet, it is often recommended to keep a food diary because we lose track of how much we're really eating. You can lose track of how much your cat is really eating if you free-feed dry and toss treats at him several times a day. Be more conscious of what you're feeding him and remember that an animal that weighs 12 pounds doesn't need to eat all that much. Nor will he think you don't love him anymore if you stop tossing him treats every time you think he's being cute. If you want to show him your love, play with him. Give him some catnip. Spend time interacting with him. Don't equate food with love.

Getting the Weight Off

If your cat is more than a little overweight, the first thing you need to do is make an appointment with your veterinarian. There are a few medical reasons for gross obesity that require veterinary care to fix. Barring a medical problem causing the condition, your vet should monitor your obese cat's health as you restrict calories. Strict dieting can be deadly to obese cats. Do not just drastically cut down on her food and hope the weight will melt off. Obese cats who are suddenly deprived of food are prone to Fatty Liver Syndrome, which can be fatal if untreated. Weight loss should be a gradual process - the natural result of a healthier diet and a more active life.

Most cats are not so grossly obese that they need medical care to supervise their weight loss. Most are simply the result of an unhealthy lifestyle where they consume too many calories, are too inactive, and eat the wrong kinds of food (pretty much just like overweight people). Addressing these problems will result in the weight gradually reducing to a healthy number. Try these tips.

Buy premium food. Many inexpensive brands don't use quality ingredients and use far too many fillers. The nutrients are not as digestible, thus aren't bioavailable (they just pass right through the system). The cat eats more to compensate.

Feed portioned meals at regular mealtimes. Cats will eat out of boredom, just like people. They may also compete for food in a multi-cat home. Feed the portion recommended on the food packaging, dividing into two or three feedings daily (barring any medical condition requiring a different feeding schedule). Separate your cats in your multiple-cat household if necessary. Leave the food down for 30-40 minutes, then take it up. You eat meals at mealtime. So can your cat.

Feed wet food in addition to or instead of dry. Cats are meant to eat meat. Dry foods tend to have far too many carbohydrates (not very digestible) and not nearly enough water and protein. The wet food, high in protein and fat, satisfies the cat's hunger better and is used more efficiently by the body. If your cat likes wet food, feed the wet only. If she isn't all that crazy about it, give her half her calories as dry and half as wet. If you're just starting out, even a quarter of her calories coming from wet food is a start.

Skip the treats. Food should not be equated with love. Once your cat is down to a healthy weight, an occasional treat is fine, but until then, try using praise, play time, catnip, and other rewards to show how much you enjoy your companion.

Integrate activities other than eating into the routine. Your cat was made to be an active being - one that hunted for food, competed for territory, stayed safe from predators, stayed warm in the winter, cool in the summer, ranged for mates, and raised young. Now that cats are kept as indoor pets, they need activity to be provided for them. Get some interactive and automated toys for your cat. Play chase with her - get her to chase you from room to room by dragging a cat toy behind you. Get her a big cat tree and hide interesting things such as catnip pieces in it, especially towards the top where she needs to climb to get to. Plant a little container of cat grass and secure it to the top. Be creative, but get her thinking and moving. Playing with your cat reduces stress levels - for both of you!

Keep the Weight Off

Don't get lazy once your cat can actually jump onto the couch without effort. A healthy weight is all about lifestyle. Maintain the feeding regimen, don't start feeding a lot of extra treats, and keep up the activity levels. Spending a little time to get your cat to a healthy weight will help your cat live a longer, happier life.
About the Author
M. Nikole Hunn is a freelance writer in her spare time, in between coding, tripping over cats, and cleaning hair off the couch. Her main site can be seen at ipwebdesign.net

How To Train Your Kitten

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 1 Oct 2006 23:09:00 -0700

Tips On Training Your Kitten
By Burt Cotton

Most kittens seem irresistibly cute and fun. There are a few more things to know before you bring home your kitten. You need to research healthy types of food. You should interview a vet. You should kitten proof your house. You should pick up your plants, hide your wires. One good idea you can do is go out and find something for your kitten to hide in. when they first get home they may get a bit scared and want to find a safe and secure place to go. This could either be a kitty condo or a kennel.

There are several problems that may occur when you bring your kitty home. Behavior problems are normal for most kittens. Most of the basic problems will include chewing on things, scratching on chairs, or defecating.

Scratching on different items can create a big problem, like scratching on your favorite chair. It’s a normal thing for a cat to scratch, but get things that are appropriate for them to scratch on. Place them around the house so that there is not just one scratching post. Make sure that you trim your kittens nails at least once a week. If there continues to be a reoccurring problem with scratching you may want to consider having them de-clawed. If you don’t want your kitten to be de-clawed, you should be able to go to the pet store to purchase booties. This will help them from scratching on furniture or other things.

Sometimes kittens will chew on different things, such as strings from mini-blinds, curtains, pretty much anything that sways and could catch their attention. You should take your cords and place them out of reach or just unplug them. You can also get a special cover for the cords.

You will want to keep a close eye on your kitten. Make sure that your kitten is not snagging their claws on your curtains; if they do they have the chance of ripping one of their nails out. This same rune should apply for your carpet, and throw rugs. You want to make sure that your kitten is safe as possible.

The next thing that you should do is make sure that the kitten has enough chew toys. This can help with a lot of oral activity, this being very important for the development of the kitten’s gums and teeth. Another thing that you can do is grow your kitten some of their own grass. This will also help with their digestive system.

Kittens require a lot of attention, they have playful tendencies and if they do not get enough play time they may seem like they are attacking you. All they really want is an outlet for their destructive behavior.

Sometimes you can introduce another kitten to help with aggressive behavior issues. But that would be totally up to the owner. By bringing in another cat the kitten can take the aggressive behavior towards the other cat. And maybe the kitten is only trying to play; even if that is the case you do not want your feet attacked when your kitten decides that it wants to play. Kittens do need a lot of social interaction. Not just with the owner but with other animals too. If you bring a kitten into a house with a dog, you need to introduce your dog to the new kitten. This will be a big change for all of you. The cat and dog may not get along at first but they need to figure out between the two of them who has higher ranking in the house.

Remember when all of this is said and done you want to make sure that everyone is satisfied with the results. This will include your animals, children and yourself. Don’t get stressed out, just hug your cat. It will all be ok. All cats will ever try to do is please you. They are not intending on making you mad they just may not know better yet. It all takes time to teach and learn. Just remember a few basic things. Make sure you pet is happy and healthy. Make sure your doing everything possible for your cat.

About the author
Burt Cotton http://www.petcarenews.org

Cats Make Great Pets If You Understand Them

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 30 Sep 2006 23:30:00 -0700

Pets If You Understand Them
By: Ian White

Anyone wanting a new kitten should be a cat lover. Lets face it, folks,
cats are just different from dogs. Cats do not usually perform any special tricks, and they certainly do not guard your possessions while you are away. In fact, the only thing you can be guaranteed of by having a cat is that a mouse wont last long if they creep into your home.

Cats are loved by many because of their independence. Cats have a life, so to
speak. Most cats do not follow you around the home with their tongues hanging
out of their mouths waiting on your attention. While they do love their owners
fiercely, cats will not grovel like a dog and worship and fawn over their
owners. Cats are perfectly content simply being themselves and they do not
seem to need constant reassurance, unlike canines.

This does not mean cats do not need love and affection, it simply means cats
are not fragile characters. In fact, cats exude a self assurance which can
often be misunderstood as aloofness or coldness. Yet, cats are far from aloof
or unfeeling. They feel deeply and love deeply. If a cat comes to sit on your
lap, you know you are truly loved.

Anytime the family thinks about bringing a new pet into the home, it is
exciting. Cats are a favorite of many because as kittens they are so
entertaining to watch. Cats have a mind all of their own and only a true cat
lover can even claim to understand the psyche of a feline. Cats are mysterious
animals, which is part of the draw to them. While cats have been brought into
the home, their instincts still remain. Cats adopt their owners and will even
go out and provide dinner. Many cat owners have stepped out on the stoop to
find a dead mouse, opossum, or mole waiting for them. Now, that is love and
loyalty!

If you are planning to bring a cat into your home, you should look at it as a
life long commitment. Cats can live fifteen years and beyond. You should also
understand that as cats mature, they will often sleep and laze around the home.
If you are wanting a cat to entertain you throughout her life, you should
seriously think about whether a cat is the pet for you. Kittens are very
entertaining and young cats are always curious and open for a challenge.
However, older cats arent easily excitable and usually prefer to watch the
antics in the home from a distance.

When you have made the decision to bring a new cat into your home, you will
have to decide between a domestic or purebred cat. If you choose to go with a
purebred cat, you can be guaranteed of size and appearance, and possibly
temperament. There are more than 40 breeds to choose from, so do your homework.
You will want to research the grooming requirements of the breed you are
considering, along with the general disposition of the breed.

Domestic cats come in all colors and shapes. When you look at any cat, there
are some things you should consider. For instance, while all cats are fairly in
proportion to each other, there are some cats which are more lanky and lean
than others. These cats will be the ones who may be more interested in running
and exploration. The chunkier, heavier cat will probably be more laid back and
not get into too big a hurry about anything. You have a choice between a
domestic long hair or domestic short hair cat.

When picking out your kitten, you should understand that kittens should not
have an odor. While puppies do tend to have a smell about them, kittens do not.
You should observe the entire litter of kittens. Do any of them have crusty
eyes or a runny nose? If so, you may want to reconsider choosing a kitten from
that litter. You certainly shouldnt take one home simply because you feel
sorry for it, either. Especially if you have other pets in your home. All of
the kittens should have bright and clear eyes and be very alert.

You should handle the kittens. Their fur should be soft and silky, and never
stiff or dry. Likewise, their coat should not feel oily or greasy. When you are
petting the kitten, you should run your hands along her skin to ensure she has
no sores. When you are holding each kitten, place them up to your face and
nuzzle them. Listen for any breathing noises. You should not hear any raspy or
breathy breathing. If you do, this is possibly a signal that the kitten has a
respitory infection.

After visiting with the kittens, instinct will usually dictate to you which
kitten is your match. You may feel the rowdy, rambunctious kitten will fit the
best into your lively home. Or, you may decide the laid back kitten is more
your speed, especially if you have a quiet home. Once you have made your
decision and chosen your kitten, you should have a kennel waiting for travel.
You should never try to ride in a car with a cat unless they are restrained or
in a kennel. While most dogs love car rides, cats tend to scare. They can cower
under your feet and this can lead to a wreck.

When you bring your new kitten into your home, you should immediately show her
where the litter box, food and water are located. You should also have a supply
of cat toys on hand to distract the cat from missing her mom and litter mates.
While this cannot entirely be avoided, lavishing attention on a new kitten will
do wonders in the transition to her new family.

You should expect your new kitten to explore every nook and cranny in the home.
This is a necessary part of a kittens disposition. Even older cats seem to
perk up when a new piece of furniture is brought into a home they have lived in
for years. You will want to kitten proof your home. You should keep the lids
down on the toilet, and you may want to remove potted plants and the like until
your cat learns the rules.

Cats are social creatures, and they can learn the rules of their new
environment with consistency. While you may think they do not understand what
you are saying, this is not true. If you have a new kitten who wants to walk
across the kitchen counter or dining room table, simply rattling a newspaper at
her and saying down will teach her to stay off. With time you will be able to
put the newspaper away and simply speak the command.

Kittens can add joy to any home. Part of the fun is knowing the kitten is
oblivious to the fact that she is the center of attention. She is not trying to
gain your attention by performing. She is simply being a cat. You should also
not be upset if your kitten is not interested in being a lap cat. While she may
be content for a few moments on your lap, kittens have to roam, play and
explore. As your cat matures she will be more inclined to take it easy curled
up on your lap. Until then, just make her feel loved and you will have a feline
that will adore you and her new home.

Copyright © 2005, Ian White

About the Author

Author Ian White is founder of cat-breeders.biz Those seeking
kittens can locate and match with appropriate breeders. Cat-Breeders.biz
automates the matching of kittens for sale with kitten wanted entries, with
daily email notifications to all parties. http://www.cat-breeders.biz

Introducing a Cat or Kitten to Another Cat

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 4 Aug 2006 19:15:00 -0700

Introducing a Cat or Kitten to Another Cat

Introducing a cat or kitten to another cat

Caring for two cats is just as easy as caring for one. They will entertain and exercise each other, and, most importantly, provide company for each other.

If you are already the guardian of a cat and want to adopt another, it is best to adopt one that is younger, smaller, and the opposite sex of the one you now have. Your older, larger cat will be more accepting of a younger, smaller cat. To avoid inter/male, inter/female rivalry, it is best to adopt the opposite sex.

To minimize the possibility of territorial spraying, all cats in the household should be neutered.

Before bringing your new cat or kitten home, take her to a veterinarian to get her wormed and vaccinated. Be sure to get her tested for feline leukemia. After the visit to the veterinarian, take her to a friend's house and give her a bath using an approved cat shampoo. Bathing not only removes fleas but also neutralizes all the other cat's odors which, when detected by your existing cat, will cause her to go crazy. Now your new cat or kitten is ready to go home.

There are two other ways of masking the odor of this new beast who is threatening the security of your existing cat's territory. You can either spray an inexpensive diluted perfume on both cats before the introduction so that they will smell alike, or you can rub a clean, damp towel on your existing cat. Then, using that towel, rub her odor on the new cat, and reverse the procedure with the new cat. They will be more accepting of each other if they smell the same or like themselves!

Next, confine the new kitty, for one day, to one room with her food, water, and litterbox. A litterbox is necessary because this new kitty should not go outside for at least three weeks, even if she is going to be an occasional outside cat. She needs a chance to become accustomed to her new home. If she is to be an indoor cat, then it is best to provide one litterbox per cat, anyway. During this one day confinement, the existing kitty will have a chance to smell and hear the new kitty. The following day, confine the existing kitty in the same room, and let the new kitty roam the house. The third day, let the two cats come together.

There will be some chasing, perhaps some hissing, and maybe even some minor fighting. Don't worry. Let them work it out! This behavior may last for three weeks or more. There may also be some spraying by the existing cat. Don't scold her. Just accept this adjustment period. Most cats learn to live together. It is very rare that two cats will not eventually get along. Once the cats have had a chance to get acquainted with each other, you can move their feeding stations closer together, but keep the litterboxes separated in an out-of-the-way quiet place.

From this point on, enjoy their antics and their companionship!

Source : metrokc.gov

CATS DO THE MOST HILARIOUS THINGS

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 12 Jul 2006 05:40:00 -0700


Cats do the funniest things. Check out this video. Enjoy:)

The Proper Care And Nurturing Of Cats

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 11 Jul 2006 14:54:00 -0700

The cat (Felis catus) has been woven into human society for thousands of years. Cats have been alternately revered as gods (as in ancient Egyptian culture) and feared as witch's "familiars" or connections to the devil (as in Salem, Massachusetts during the witch trials). Today we see them for what they really are: responsive, intelligent animals who adapt to most living environments.

With greater than 50 million cats living in American households, it is no wonder that cats have now surpassed dogs as our favorite pets. Cats make wonderful companions because they are relatively easy to care for and offer a lifetime of enjoyment.

Along with the increased popularity of cats as pets comes the responsibility to properly care for them . . . the responsibility to make sure that they are fed properly and have appropriate shelter and adequate veterinary care. Cats may live fifteen or more years. They have various personalities. Some are solitary individuals while others are more gregarious. They are prone to certain health problems and require minimal but routine care.

Cats are carnivorous, which means that they have an absolute requirement for some animal-source ingredients, such as meat, poultry, or fish, in their diets. There is no such thing as a good vegetarian diet for a cat. Without animal-source ingredients in their diet they will become deficient in certain nutrients which can prove life-threatening.

When choosing a cat food, it is best to choose one that is appropriate for the life-stage of the cat. For example, kittens should receive kitten food and adult cats should receive adult cat food. Additionally, overweight cats can benefit from a reduced calorie diet, just like humans. It is important to choose a food labeled as "complete and nutritionally balanced" and that the claims be substantiated by actual feeding trials.

There are several types of cat food available (dry, semi-moist, and canned) and a cat owner should realize the advantages and disadvantages of each type through a discussion with a veterinarian. Fresh water should always be available. It is an old wives' tale that cats must have milk, and, in fact, milk may cause a cat to have diarrhea.

Every cat should be routinely evaluated by a veterinarian who is familiar with the species. The cat should be examined for any potential health problems. Cats are prone to many of the same problems that people are. Cancer, kidney disease, heart disease, and dental disease are not uncommon. The earlier a problem is identified and addressed, the more likely the cat will respond in a positive fashion. As cat owners, we must help maintain their good health. Many cats are amenable to routine brushing of their teeth with a cat toothpaste. Additionally, they should be examined for parasites known to infect cats. Most obvious to an owner would be ear mites or fleas, although several species of intestinal worms can infest cats and rob them of precious nutrients. It is important that these problems be treated, and there are very effective drugs available. Cats allowed to roam outdoors will obviously be more prone to these parasites, unless the parasites have become established in a household.

As a general rule it is advisable to have a cat neutered, also called spayed (for females) and castrated (for males). Not only does it aid in control of unwanted kittens, but it also greatly minimizes the risk of problems associated with the reproductive tract and behavioral problems associated with sexually intact animals.

Female cats, also called queens, generally reach sexual maturity between four and twelve months of age. An unspayed female may be capable of producing kittens for eight or more years. Male cats, also called toms, usually become fertile between six and eight months of age. They may remain so for fourteen or more years. Most veterinarians recommend that a cat be neutered at or after six months of age, although there are individual opinions on this issue, and interested cat owners should consult their veterinarians during one of their cat's initial visits for examination and vaccination.

There are several diseases for which cats should be vaccinated by a veterinarian. Feline rhinotracheitis, calici virus, and panleukopenia (distemper) are potentially life-threatening diseases to which a cat can become exposed. They are caused by viruses which can easily be transmitted from cat to cat. Some viruses can be carried on an owner's clothing after handling a sick cat. There are vaccines available for other diseases, such as rabies, which has become endemic in certain areas of the country. Therefore, it is important that even indoor cats be vaccinated for these diseases. Additionally, there are vaccines available for other viral diseases, feline leukemia and feline infectious peritonitis, which are seen more commonly in outdoor, stray cats, or in multi-cat households. (This does not, however, preclude indoor only cats from having these diseases.) There are no effective treatments for these diseases, and they should be prevented. It is important for cat owners to realize that there are numerous diseases, such as feline immuno-deficiency virus infection, to which a cat can become exposed for which there are no currently available vaccines or treatment.

Also important for cat owners to understand is that cats are very sensitive to certain medications and household products. Cats do not metabolize aspirin like people; it should only be used under the supervision of a veterinarian. Acetaminophen (as in Tylenol) will kill cats and its ingestion is considered an emergency. Additionally, products containing phenol, such as Lysol, should not be used around cats because of their unique way of metabolizing these products. Some cats may like the taste of antifreeze, which contains ethylene glycol, and, if ingested, will cause kidney failure if not treated immediately. It is best not to use any questionable products around a cat until you have checked with an authority. Also, cats will often eat plants, some of which can be toxic. It is better to offer them sprouted feed oats to nibble on when they get the urge to graze.

Cats are often attracted to string-like objects, will eat tinsel, needles and thread, rubber bands, and other similar materials. Some cats are attracted to electric cords. Therefore, it is important to keep these things out of the cat's environment or take measures to minimize their attraction to them. Routine cleaning of kitty litter promotes good sanitation behavior. Cat owners must also set limits for their cats. If they are not supposed to be in a particular room or sharpening their nails on a particular piece of furniture, this should be established from the moment the cat is adopted. It is much easier to prevent problems than to attempt to change established patterns of behavior.

Cats depend on their owners for the essentials of existence. Providing them with the proper care and treatment can mean a lifetime of companionship. Cats have much to give and ask for little in return.

Source: Dr. Linda M. Wilmot, Division of Drugs
for Non-Food Animals, Center for Veterinary Medicine.

So you want to raise kittens?

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 4 Jul 2006 23:22:00 -0700

Are you considering breeding your female cat? I just ran across a very interesting article that will give your step by step instructions on how to breed your female cat. Below is a snippet of the article.

Many people in the Cat Fancy begin as I did - with a pet cat." We'll raise
just one litter and then spay her." Famous last words spoken by many of us!
The experience with that first litter often determines whether or not you will
continue as a cat breeder or spay your cat and forget about breeding.If you
are fortunate enough to have a friend in the fancy, perhaps the person from
whom you purchased your female,who will literally "hold your hand" and tell
you what to do and what to expect,step-by-step, you are more apt to have a
satisfying experience.

Most cats deliver their young in a no-nonsense manner.Some females or
"queens" are calmer, some more high strung (especially with their first
litter) and frequently the difference depends upon the breed of cat involved.
I have bred both Siamese and Persians and there can be a notable difference
in their kittening and mothering but without exception I have never had a cat
I would call a poor mother.A couple have been not-too-bright at the
beginning but once they got the idea,they were always good and devoted
mothers.To read the rest of the article click here...

If you would like a report on how to raise kittens, you can download a this helpful guide
Raising kittens pdf

CAT CRUELTY

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 3 Jul 2006 17:34:00 -0700

This piece of news just made my blood boil. I find it disturbing that humans are possible of inflicting great harm on defenseless creatures.

A group of teenagers appeared in court today
to admit hurling a cat off a fifth floor balcony in Birmingham - the
gang was caught after their own shocking mobile phone footage of the
appalling attack was given to the RSPCA.

The youngsters dropped the terrified animal off the 60 feet balcony up
to four times, each time going downstairs to fetch the cat before
repeating the attack. The cat was so severely injured it had to be put
to sleep to end its suffering.

Two boys, aged 17 and 18 and a 16-year-old girl - who cannot be
named for legal reasons - appeared before Birmingham Magistrates Court
and pleaded guilty to cruelly ill-treating and terrifying a cat at
Druids Lane, in October 2005.

A 14-year-old girl admitted aiding and abetting the cruel ill-treatment of the cat.

RSPCA Inspector Rob Hartley said: "This type of sickening cruelty
inflicted on a living animal cannot be tolerated and that is why I am
glad the matter has come before magistrates. This case ranks high
amongst the worst I have dealt with and has proved both challenging and
upsetting to investigate."

The RSPCA became involved in the case after receiving a copy
of the mobile phone footage via the police. Appeals in the media led to
the owner of the cat being identified. Simone Warmington, aged 26, had
taken her cat Khalo to the vet in October 2005 after she believed he
had been involved in a road traffic accident. Upon arrival, Khalo was
found to have received a severe injury to the head, causing brain
damage. He was put to sleep to end his suffering.

Simone had owned Khalo since he was a kitten. Speaking today,
she said: "I would like to thank the RSPCA and the police for their
investigation. Without their intervention I would never have known the
truth about Khalo's death and the youths involved would never have been
brought to justice.

"In October 2005 my cat Khalo had died. At the time I believed
he had been hit by a car. He was brain damaged on arrival to the vet
and it was evident he was in a great deal of pain and stress. He had
lots of blood coming from his mouth. Khalo had to be put to sleep. I
was devastated. He was a beautiful and loving cat.

"I later found out from the RSPCA the truth about Khalo's death. It
left me feeling very distraught and sickened by the torture and level
of cruelty that was inflicted on my one-year-old cat, which resulted in
his death. This inhumane act was despicable" said Miss Warmington.

The 18-year-old is due to be sentenced at Birmingham
Magistrates' Court on Friday 14 July 2006. The others are due to be
sentenced by the Birmingham Youth Court on Tuesday 4 July.
Source rspca

Prevent Your Cat From Becoming Sick

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 10 May 2006 02:16:00 -0700

We all desire that are cats remain happy and healthy. The following article explains what measures you can take to minimize the risk of your cat becoming ill. Enjoy:)

Learn These Problems Now, And You Can Avoid Your Cat Becoming Ill In The Future

by Niall Kennedy

Cats, like any other animal out there, can become sick. There are several health problems that can affect your cat. If you have never owned one though you may not Besrealize just what those can be. Knowing what to look for can protect your pet’s health.
The hairball is probably the most common of them. Cats will groom themselves and this allows loose hair to come off the pet and end up in the stomachs. Instead of passing easily, the hair can form a ball within the stomach. If your cat starts coughing and hacking he may have a hairball that he’s trying to expel. You can help prevent hairballs by grooming your cat frequently to remove the excess hair that will cause them. You can feed your cat food that will help to control it too. Even some cat treats are available to help you to keep your cat’s healthy.
Urinary tract infections are another common problem for many cats. These are particularly common in cats that are not neutered, especially males. If the cat stopped using his litter box, an infection can be the cause. If the cat’s urine smells strong, this can be a sign as well. In order to treat this condition, you will need to visit the vet. But, there are some cat foods out there that can help to limit the episodes of infection your cat will have.
Viruses
Cats can get viruses too. Some of these include the following: Feline Leukemia Virus, Feline Infectious Peritonitis, and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus.
FIP is a disease that is related to the Corona virus. This is a serious problem because there is no known treatment for the disease. Cats that test positive for it may not actually have it as Corona has the same results. There is a vaccine for FIP but many vets feel it is not very effective. The good news is that it is not easy for the cat to catch it.
FIV or cat AIC is not always something that will kill the animal. It is important to note that you can not catch HIV from a cat though.
FLV is a preventable condition if the cat has not been exposed to the virus before being immunized. Cats that have the disease will not die right away, most of the time, but it can shorten the life expectancy of the pet. It is important to keep other cats away from a pet that has this condition.
Worms are another problem that can affect your pet. These can be roundworms, tapeworms or hookworms. They can occasionally develop heart worms as well. Those cats that can not gain weight are infested with fleas and those who have white specks in their stool should be taken to the vet for testing for worms. If your pet does have worms, it can be fatal if it is untreated but most pets can be cured from it with a few doses of medication.
Another condition in which many cats that go outdoors will have is ticks. Symptoms include the pet being lethargic and acting like they are in pain. If you suspect that your pet may have this condition, make sure to take him to the vet to have them removed. Also, the vet will likely treat him for Lyme Disease which can be transmitted to you and your family as well as to pets by the ticks.
There are a number of useful websites that can give you information about diseases that affect your cat. However, it is essential that if you suspect your pet of having any of these conditions that you seek out the help of a vet right away.

Best Pet Health Information is a resource that brings you information and news, tips and reviews to ensure you have the correct health products to avoid cat health problems.
Copyright Best-Pet-Health.info All rights reserved.

CARE AND NURTURING OF CATS

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 14 Apr 2006 03:26:00 -0700

The cat (Felis catus) has been woven into human society for thousands of years. Cats have been alternately revered as gods (as in ancient Egyptian culture) and feared as witch's "familiars" or connections to the devil (as in Salem, Massachusetts during the witch trials). Today we see them for what they really are: responsive, intelligent animals who adapt to most living environments.
With greater than 50 million cats living in American households, it is no wonder that cats have now surpassed dogs as our favorite pets. Cats make wonderful companions because they are relatively easy to care for and offer a lifetime of enjoyment.
Along with the increased popularity of cats as pets comes the responsibility to properly care for them . . . the responsibility to make sure that they are fed properly and have appropriate shelter and adequate veterinary care. Cats may live fifteen or more years. They have various personalities. Some are solitary individuals while others are more gregarious. They are prone to certain health problems and require minimal but routine care.
Cats are carnivorous, which means that they have an absolute requirement for some animal-source ingredients, such as meat, poultry, or fish, in their diets. There is no such thing as a good vegetarian diet for a cat. Without animal-source ingredients in their diet they will become deficient in certain nutrients which can prove life-threatening.
When choosing a cat food, it is best to choose one that is appropriate for the life-stage of the cat. For example, kittens should receive kitten food and adult cats should receive adult cat food. Additionally, overweight cats can benefit from a reduced calorie diet, just like humans. It is important to choose a food labeled as "complete and nutritionally balanced" and that the claims be substantiated by actual feeding trials.
There are several types of cat food available (dry, semi-moist, and canned) and a cat owner should realize the advantages and disadvantages of each type through a discussion with a veterinarian. Fresh water should always be available. It is an old wives' tale that cats must have milk, and, in fact, milk may cause a cat to have diarrhea.
Every cat should be routinely evaluated by a veterinarian who is familiar with the species. The cat should be examined for any potential health problems. Cats are prone to many of the same problems that people are. Cancer, kidney disease, heart disease, and dental disease are not uncommon. The earlier a problem is identified and addressed, the more likely the cat will respond in a positive fashion. As cat owners, we must help maintain their good health. Many cats are amenable to routine brushing of their teeth with a cat toothpaste. Additionally, they should be examined for parasites known to infect cats. Most obvious to an owner would be ear mites or fleas, although several species of intestinal worms can infest cats and rob them of precious nutrients. It is important that these problems be treated, and there are very effective drugs available. Cats allowed to roam outdoors will obviously be more prone to these parasites, unless the parasites have become established in a household.
As a general rule it is advisable to have a cat neutered, also called spayed (for females) and castrated (for males). Not only does it aid in control of unwanted kittens, but it also greatly minimizes the risk of problems associated with the reproductive tract and behavioral problems associated with sexually intact animals.
Female cats, also called queens, generally reach sexual maturity between four and twelve months of age. An unspayed female may be capable of producing kittens for eight or more years. Male cats, also called toms, usually become fertile between six and eight months of age. They may remain so for fourteen or more years. Most veterinarians recommend that a cat be neutered at or after six months of age, although there are individual opinions on this issue, and interested cat owners should consult their veterinarians during one of their cat's initial visits for examination and vaccination.
There are several diseases for which cats should be vaccinated by a veterinarian. Feline rhinotracheitis, calici virus, and panleukopenia (distemper) are potentially life-threatening diseases to which a cat can become exposed. They are caused by viruses which can easily be transmitted from cat to cat. Some viruses can be carried on an owner's clothing after handling a sick cat. There are vaccines available for other diseases, such as rabies, which has become endemic in certain areas of the country. Therefore, it is important that even indoor cats be vaccinated for these diseases. Additionally, there are vaccines available for other viral diseases, feline leukemia and feline infectious peritonitis, which are seen more commonly in outdoor, stray cats, or in multi-cat households. (This does not, however, preclude indoor only cats from having these diseases.) There are no effective treatments for these diseases, and they should be prevented. It is important for cat owners to realize that there are numerous diseases, such as feline immuno-deficiency virus infection, to which a cat can become exposed for which there are no currently available vaccines or treatment.
Also important for cat owners to understand is that cats are very sensitive to certain medications and household products. Cats do not metabolize aspirin like people; it should only be used under the supervision of a veterinarian. Acetaminophen (as in Tylenol) will kill cats and its ingestion is considered an emergency. Additionally, products containing phenol, such as Lysol, should not be used around cats because of their unique way of metabolizing these products. Some cats may like the taste of antifreeze, which contains ethylene glycol, and, if ingested, will cause kidney failure if not treated immediately. It is best not to use any questionable products around a cat until you have checked with an authority. Also, cats will often eat plants, some of which can be toxic. It is better to offer them sprouted feed oats to nibble on when they get the urge to graze.
Cats are often attracted to string-like objects, will eat tinsel, needles and thread, rubber bands, and other similar materials. Some cats are attracted to electric cords. Therefore, it is important to keep these things out of the cat's environment or take measures to minimize their attraction to them. Routine cleaning of kitty litter promotes good sanitation behavior. Cat owners must also set limits for their cats. If they are not supposed to be in a particular room or sharpening their nails on a particular piece of furniture, this should be established from the moment the cat is adopted. It is much easier to prevent problems than to attempt to change established patterns of behavior.
Cats depend on their owners for the essentials of existence. Providing them with the proper care and treatment can mean a lifetime of companionship. Cats have much to give and ask for little in return.

Why Do Cats Purr?

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 14 Apr 2006 03:00:00 -0700

Why and how do cats purr?

No one knows for sure why a domestic cat purrs, but many people interpret the sound as one of contentment. Our understanding of how a domestic cat purrs is becoming more complete; most scientists agree that the larynx (voice box), laryngeal muscles, and a neural oscillator are involved.
Kittens learn how to purr when they are a couple of days old. Veterinarians suggest that this purring tells ‘Mom’ that “I am okay” and that “I am here.” It also indicates a bonding mechanism between kitten and mother.
As the kitten grows into adulthood, purring continues. Many suggest a cat purrs from contentment and pleasure. But a cat also purrs when it is injured and in pain. Dr. Elizabeth Von Muggenthaler has suggested that the purr, with its low frequency vibrations, is a “natural healing mechanism.” Purring may be linked to the strengthening and repairing of bones, relief of pain, and wound healing (See Web link to Felid purr: a healing mechanism).
Purring is a unique vocal feature in the domestic cat. However, other species in the Felidae family also purr: Bobcat, Cheetah, Eurasian Lynx, Puma, and Wild Cat (Complete list in Peters, 2002). Current studies show that Pantherinae subfamily: Lion, Leopard, Jaquar, Tiger, Snow Leopard, and Clouded Leopard do not have purring (Peters, 2002).
What makes the purr distinctive from other cat vocalizations is that it is produced during the entire respiratory cycle (inhaling and exhaling). Other vocalizations such as the “meow” are limited to the expiration of the breath.
It was once thought that the purr was produced from blood surging through the inferior vena cava, but as research continues it seems that the intrinsic (internal) laryngeal muscles are the likely source for the purr. Moreover, there is an absence of purring in a cat with laryngeal paralysis. The laryngeal muscles are responsible for the opening and closing of the glottis (space between the vocal chords), which results in a separation of the vocal chords, and thus the purr sound. Studies have shown, that the movement of the laryngeal muscles is signaled from a unique “neural oscillator” (Frazer-Sisson, Rice, and Peters, 1991 & Remmers and Gautier, 1972) in the cat’s brain.

Do Kittens Hiccup?

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 30 Mar 2006 02:17:00 -0800

Kittens and Hiccups

by LeAnn R. Ralph

Can kittens (and cats) get hiccups?The answer to that question is -- yes.After I rescued four two-week-old kittens who were orphaned when their mother was killed, I became the "momma cat" and started feeding them kitten formula with a syringe.When I took the kittens to the vet clinic for a checkup, the vet asked me if they had gotten hiccups yet.At that point, they had never shown any signs of it."No, they haven't had hiccups," I said."They will," the vet said with a smile. "It happens sometimes when they eat too fast.""Should I do anything to help them if they get the hiccups?" I asked, wondering what in the world I could do for kitten hiccups. Tell the kittens to hold their breath? That's what works for me."You don't have to do anything," the vet said. "They'll go away on their own."Not long after that -- sure enough, the kittens got hiccups. And sure enough, after a while, the hiccups went away.That was more than 13 years ago. I still have the "kittens" (three of them, anyway; one died in October 2004 from chronic renal failure). And even today, as adult cats, they will occasionally get the hiccups. The hiccups last for a half a minute or a minute and then that's the end of it.So -- if your kitten (or cat) develops hiccups, don't worry about it. The hiccups will go away sooner or later.

LeAnn R. Ralph is the author of the books "Give Me a Home Where the Dairy Cows Roam" (September 2004) and "Christmas in Dairyland (True Stories from a Wisconsin Farm) (July 2003) and "Preserve Your Family History (A Step-by-Step Guide for Interviewing Family Members and Writing Oral Histories)" (e-book; April 2004). For information about the books, visit ruralroute2.com

Does Your Cat Talk To You?

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 28 Mar 2006 00:00:00 -0800

Ever wonder what your cat is trying to tell you with all those meows, grumbles and purrs? The following article explains just exactly your cat might be trying to say to you. Enjoy:)

How To Know What Your Cat Wants When It Talks To You - Cat Communication Explained"

by NS Kennedy

Many people think cats are asocial, but in fact they are very social animals. They bond with other cats in their house or neighborhood, their owners, even other pets like dogs and birds. They communicate to each other and us a variety of ways.A keen sense of smell is important in cat communication. When her human returns home, a cat carefully sniffs then proceeds to rub her face against the owners legs. She is placing her scent on you, marking you as her territory. As you have gone through your day, scent molecules have attached to your clothing. Your cat must mark you again to cover up those other smells.Cats also communicate through body language. Your cats posture, gestures, facial expressions, tail, ear and whisker position can all be aan indication of how your cat is feeling.A bristling tail held straight up, or one that thrashes back and forth are warnings. If a cat is feeling defensive, the tail is usually arched. Hissing and backing away with ears flat against the head are other defensive poses. You can tell a lot about a cats state of being from its eyes. Wide, dilated eyes communicate anger or fear. A contented cat slowly blinks its eyes, or keeps them half-closed.There are probably many more movements that send signals, but they are so subtle, only another cat can notice and interpret them. This explains why cats seem to "read one anothers minds." Two cats might gaze at each other without moving for a very long time, then suddenly erupt into action. What was the signal? A twitch of lip, lift of a lip, tilt of the head? Only the cats know.Did You know there are at least nineteen different types of "miaow"?When it comes to sound, cats say more than meow. Their vocalizations fall into three groups, murmurs, open/closed mouth and intensity sounds. Murmured sounds include the low sound cats make when treats are coming, as well as the famous purr. Purring is usually interpreted as a sound of contentment, but it is really more a vocalization of intense emotion. In fact, an injured cat, or one being handled by a stranger - like a vet - often purr.Open/closed mouth vocalizations include all the variations and intonations of "meow" that a cat uses to greet you, or ask for food, or otherwise demand attention. Intensity vocalizations are created when the cat holds her mouth open the entire time she is making sound. These are the highly emotional vocalization of fear, anger, and extreme pain.Some cats are more talkative than others. Many owners notice a difference in the types of noises their cats make for them as opposed to strangers or other cats. A few owners believe their cats have learned to mimic the syntax and pitch of some human words. Whether that is true or not, it is certain that the more time you spend with your cat, the more shell communicate with you.

Pet Medication Supplies http://www.pet-medication-supplies.net can help you get the best possible pet health supplies. Advantix, Arthramine, Cosequin, Frontline, Heartgard - find the best deals in pet medication for flea and tick control, arthritis and lyme disease. Upto 50% discount everyday on brand names.

Upper Respiratory Infections in Cats

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 7 Feb 2006 16:20:00 -0800

Upper Respiratory Infections in Cats

by Linda Mar Veterinary Hospital

Your cat has just been diagnosed with an upper respiratory infection. This is an extremely common condition, especially in cats just acquired from any multi-cat situation (i.e. humane shelter, rescue facility, breeders cattery, a multi-cat household). It may be that you have an indoor/outdoor cat and a brief encounter with another cat allowed contact with the virus. Or it may be that your cat never leaves the home but you made contact with a cat with a cold and managed to transmit the virus on your hands and clothing.
Signs
Cat colds will cause sneezing, coughing, nasal and eye discharge. If only affected by the virus, the quality of the discharge is usually clear and watery. However, secondary bacterial infections will cause the discharge to become thick with mucous and green or yellow colored in appearance.
Treatment
Like human colds, unfortunately, it is a virus, and there is no specific treatment for this condition. Nothing can be done to eliminate the virus from the body. The cat will usually do this on its own in a 1-3 week period. If it doesnt, there are concerns about the cats immune system and/or re-infection. Suppression from the feline leukemia virus (Felv) or feline AIDS virus (FIV) can cause a protracted bout with upper respiratory infections. Or it may be that re-infections may be occurring from other cats in the household. Sometimes, it simply takes longer for an individual to clear up from cold symptoms.
Antibiotics
When there are secondary bacterial infections, antibiotics can be helpful. These may be given systemically as pills or liquids, or topically as ointment or drops applied to the eyes, or topically as drops applied to the nose. Supportive care is important.
Medications
Decongestants are sometimes useful and for this reason, an over-the-counter anti-histamine chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton) may be recommended. Another over-the-counter item that can be helpful for congested cats is "Little Noses", a pediatric formulation containing phenylephrine (Neo-synephrine) 1% nasal solution. These drops applied to cats nostrils can help clear nasal passages and make the cat more comfortable.
Hydration
Maintaining hydration by ensuring sufficient fluids are taken in by the cat is critical. This can be done either by giving fluids by mouth with a syringe or by mixing extra water in with canned food. Occasionally, it may be necessary to give fluids subcutaneously with a sterile solution (usually lactated Ringers) given under the skin. Your veterinarian can do this or if it will be needed for an extended period of time, you can be shown how to do this so it can be done at home.
Nutrition
Ensuring adequate nutrition is important. Canned food, especially warmed up, can increase palpability and smelly fish based foods are helpful to cats with a decreased sense of smell from the cold. Baby food (any of the meat based) is sometimes easier to swallow for some cats with colds. Note that baby food is not meant to be given exclusively nor long term since nutritional deficiencies will arise by doing so. However, it can be helpful short term to get a cat to eat something. Sometimes, forced feedings are necessary. Hills A/D (available from your veterinarian) is a balanced, nutritious food that can be easily drawn up via a syringe and given by mouth. It also has a soft consistency and is easy to swallow. Appetite stimulants such as low doses of valium or an anti-histamine, cryptoheptadine (Periactin) can be used to encourage food consumption.
Maintenance
Keeping the nasal passage and eyes clean and free of build-up of secretions is important. This may necessitate cleaning several times a day with a soft cloth or cotton swabs, moistened with warm water. A form of nebulization, the "steam effect" can be helpful, and this is achieved by placing the cat in a steamed bathroom (easily done when taking a shower).
Prevention
There are some simple precautions that can help minimize the course of disease for the affected cat and decrease the exposure to other cats in the household. Note there is no indication that colds can spread between humans and cats. Nonetheless, especially after handling the cats nasal or eye secretions, thorough hand washing is indicated.
Cat colds are very contagious between cats, both aerosolized and on items. For this reason, it is important, if possible, to isolate the affected cat away from the others. Sometimes, by the time a cat shows signs, it may be too late for the other cats who may have already been exposed. All other cats in the household should be monitored for sneezing and eye and nasal discharge. To minimize the spread of the virus, it is important, too, to wash all items such as bedding and food and water bowls that the affected cat has frequented. Even washing your hands is important to limit the spread of the virus when touching different cats in the household.
If you have any questions about this disease and its treatment, dont hesitate to contact your veterinarian.
The above is general veterinary information. Do not begin any course of treatment without consulting your regular veterinarian. All animals should be examined at least once every 12 months.

Linda Mar Veterinary Hospital and its cat-only affiliate, Coastal Cat Clinic, are small animal practices located in Pacifica, California. To find a veterinarian or to learn more about the vet clinic and our staff, visit:[http://lindamarvet.com/]

Stages In A Cats Life

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 4 Feb 2006 13:12:00 -0800

How Fast Will Your Cat Will Grow - The Important Stages In A Cats Life

by Niall Kennedy

Just like having a child, it can be incredibly fulfilling bringing a kitten into your family and watching it grow up. It takes only a year for your cute little kitten to mature into a cat. It can seem hard to believe but it will happen fast. Being prepared is the goal here. So what are the key milestones for a young cat?
The First Moments
Kittens are born blind and they are completely dependant on their mother. The first stages will involve learning to eat and then growing. The kittens eyes will open and he will want to explore. At four weeks old, he is romping around shakily with his siblings. At this time he can begin to learn to use the litter box and should start to become a social animal. In the wild, the kittens mother will start to supplement his diet with dead mice and other small pretty. But, you may want to give him some soft kitten food or some dry food that is softened a little with water.
Six Weeks
Hes now six weeks old and he is more than ready to explore the home. If hes indoors, he will move from room to room. A feral kitten will follow his mother when she goes to hang out with the other cats. These cats will still receive mice from their mother, but they arent dead anymore. Instead, the kitten has to learn to hunt the animal. Those who are eight weeks old will be completely weaned from their mother and are ready to go to a new home.
The Next Months
Through the next several months, the cats will grow really fast. Youll need to get them in to be vaccinated at this time so that they are healthy and strong. They will begin to learn what they have to do to live with their families and learn which behaviors are okay. You can teach your kitten his name as well as a few simple commands now. If the cat has long hair, make sure to get him used to allowing you to groom him, although the cats coat doesnt need to be brushed just yet.
Sometimes, cats will suddenly develop a bad attitude. Believe it or not this is an adolescent stage for them. This happens when the cat goes from being a kitten into being a mature cat. Sounds just like children, right? This will happen around the fifth to six month and may last until the cat reaches a year old. They will still be playful but may get carried away to play too aggressively. If your cat is not neutered at six months of age, he will be mature enough to reproduce now. Neutering the cat will help this stage of his development go more smoothly. At six months, the cat looks the way he will look as an adult even though he may still become larger.
Adulthood
Just like humans, adult cats will continue to go through stages. But, these stages can be dealt with quite easily. And, unlike that mid life crisis you may have, the cat isnt likely to go out to purchase a sports car at this age!
If you take care of your kittens health as he grows into an adult cat you will have a fulfilling relationship that will bring both you and the cat great satisfaction.

Best Pet Health Information is a resource that brings you information about many aspects cat health. You will also find great deals for cat medication such as Frontline, Advantage, Revolution and Cosequin. http://www.Best-Pet-Health.info
Copyright Best-Pet-Health.info All rights reserved.

Cat Owners Think Outside The Litter Box, Felines Follow Suit

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 4 Feb 2006 01:47:00 -0800

Cat Owners Think Outside The Litter Box, Felines Follow Suit

by Lisa Selin Davis

CitiKittys Cat Toilet Training Kit Is a Certifiable Trend
New York, NY (PRWEB via PR Web Direct) January 31, 2006 Andrea Marcus spent over $200 a year on cat litter and minutes every morning scooping her cat Kitty Kongs unmentionables until CitiKitty, the toilet training kit for cats, rescued her from her litter box routine. Kitty Kong hops up and uses the toilet like a pro. All I have to do is flush, she says. CitiKitty drastically improved my standards of living. Andrea exemplifies a growing trend that could turn the litter box into a junkyard gizmo of yesteryear; thanks to CitiKittys cat toilet training kit, cat owners nationwide are abandoning the box altogether.A third of our orders are coming from California and New York, says Rebecca Rescate, CitiKittys founder, whose own cat, Samantha, is a convert to the litter-free life. But its not just a bi-coastal phenomenon; CitiKitty has received orders from countries around the globe. Chat groups and Web sites have sprung up to meet the demand for information, and a surge of press about cat toilet training has helped cat fanciers embrace this new-wave of pet care. The newly launched CitiKitty Toilet Training Kit is the catalyst of the toilet training trend. Best of all, cat owners don not need a PhD in veterinary studies to use it. Here is how it works: Litter-free life begins with a training seat that attaches firmly to your toilet. At first, the seat is filled with litter. As your feline friend gets used to the idea of hopping up onto its new throne, sections of the seat are taken away. When all the litter and all the sections have been removed, your cat is officially potty-trained.Good thing, too. According to the ASPCA, cat owners spend over $175 per year on litter. That is money you could be spending on new squeaky mice for Mr. Whiskers. Toilet-training also eliminates icky litter box clean-up catastrophes. With CitiKitty, everybody wins.As the word spreads, so does the toilet training trend. For now, avid fans on both coasts—and all the states in between—are enjoying their new litter-free lifestyle. How is that for thinking outside the box? About CitiKitty The CitiKitty Toilet Training Kit is patent pending and made in the USA. CitiKitty is $29(US) and is available at www.citikitty.com. CitiKitty offers worldwide shipping and for a limited time, free shipping in the United States. For more information and to see a video of a CitiKitty toilet trained cat please visit www.citikitty.com Think Outside the Litter Box.Contact: Lisa Selin Davis(917) 771-2810

http://www.citikitty.com

How To Become An Adoptive Mom To Kittens

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 31 Jan 2006 16:45:00 -0800

Here is a splendid article for those who have decided to raise orphaned kittens on their own. I really enjoyed the tips and I hope you will as well. Enjoy:)

How to be a Momma Cat

by LeAnn R. Ralph

Over the years, I have raised nine orphaned kittens. Four of them were two weeks old when their mother was killed; three others were only hours old when their mother died; two more kittens fell out of the nest in our barn when they were only a day old.Raising motherless kittens is not a difficult process, but it does require patience, time and plenty of TLC.Here are some tips to help you raise your orphaned kittens:1. Make a nest.Normally, a mother cat spends many hours a day in the nest with her kittens, which helps her babies stay warm. Keeping the kittens warm is important because if they're not warm enough, they won't want to eat, and in fact, all of their bodily functions will slow down.To keep your orphaned kittens warm, make a nest in a small box and line it with towels or old t-shirts or sweatshirts to help the babies conserve their body heat. Put a towel over the box to keep out the light. Female cats choose nests that are dark. If you don't have a heat lamp, use a small 40-watt desk lamp and place it several feet above the box to help keep the kittens warm.If the box is big enough, you can also use a jug or another large container filled with hot water to keep the babies warm. Place the jug in the box and then make a nest with towels beside it. Refill the jug when it cools off. You can use a quart jar as a "hot water bottle" too except that a quart jar cools off very quickly.2. Use an eyedropper or a syringe to feed the kittens.The first time I raised orphaned kittens, I discovered that the small nursing bottles available at vet clinics were too big. The kittens couldn't get their mouths around the nipples. So, at first, for newborn kittens, I used an eyedropper. As the kittens grew bigger, a syringe worked very well, the kind of syringe for giving injections (without the needle of course!). I started out with the 3 cc size and used larger syringes when the kittens grew bigger. The tip of a syringe is about the size of a cat's nipple, and my kittens eventually sucked hard enough on the end of the syringe to draw the plunger down by themselves.A word of caution: Whether you're feeding with an eyedropper or a syringe, be careful to give only a few drops at a time. My veterinarian told me that if the kittens were given too much formula at once (more than they could swallow), they might inhale it. Inhaling formula will make your kittens much more susceptible to pneumonia.Along the way, I have also discovered that it is best to feed the kittens as much as they want to eat. They will settle down and sleep until the next feeding if they are getting enough to eat. Tiny kittens will start out taking maybe 1 CC at a time. As they grow bigger, they will eat around 12 CCs at a time (usually in several different helpings).Kittens learn very quickly that food comes from the syringe you hold in your hand. If you are having trouble getting them to take the formula from the syringe, let them "root around" in the palm of your hand for a few seconds or let them suck on your fingers. Then introduce the syringe and let them suck on it while you very slowly press the plunger down.3. Feed the kittens KMR or kitty formula that you have mixed yourself.KMR, the canned cat milk replacer, is available at most vet clinics in either a premixed or dry form. It is specifically formulated for kittens to provide all the nutrients they need. Follow the directions on the label. The amount to feed is determined by body weight. My newborn kittens weighed three ounces each,and for the first several days, they only needed a half an eyedropper of KMR at a time.My vet clinic also gave me a recipe for "kitten formula." After the first can of KMR, this is what all of my kittens have been raised on.Here is the recipe for Kitten Formula1 cup whole milk1 tablespoon white corn syrup1 egg yolka pinch of saltMix in a blender and mix it up far enough in advance so the bubbles will have time to dissipate.Warm over medium heat. Heat the formula so it feels slightly warm to the touch. All of my kittens have refused to swallow the formula if it was too cold or too warm. The same was true for KMR.4. Feed your kittens on a regular schedule three times a day.Mother cats nurse their kittens every couple of hours. The veterinarian I consulted cautioned me not to feed them that often. "They won't eat well and you'll get frustrated and they'll get frustrated and it will be harder on everybody," he said. He was right. Feeding the kittens three times per day worked out very well.5. Groom your kittens with a warm, wet washcloth and help them to empty their bladders and their bowels.Young kittens are unable to empty their bladders or move their bowels, so you'll have to help them. Use a warm, wet washcloth and wipe under their tails until they have emptied their bladders and/or moved their bowels. Be prepared to use as many as four washcloths for each kitten. If they only have to empty their bladders, you won't need that many. If they have to empty their bowels, look out -- it could get messy! Smaller washcloths that you can wring out with one hand while you hold onto a squirming kitten with the other work best. I put the washcloths in a pail of warm water and put the pail where I can reach it easily.Young kittens also do not know how to groom themselves, and after a day or two of eating kitten formula, they become sticky from the formula that inevitably dribbles down their chins. From time to time, use a warm, wet washcloth to wipe off the formula, but be careful not to get the kittens TOO wet or it will be hard for them to stay warm.6. Provide a litter pan when they're four weeks old.Cats have a strong instinct to use material that they can scratch around in when they have to empty their bladders and move their bowels. By the time the kittens are four weeks old, they will already be thinking in this direction and providing them with a litter pan will help them get the idea. You might still have to assist them with a washcloth for a while, but it won't be long before they are using the litter pan.Kitty litter in an aluminum pie plate works well to start out. As the kittens grow bigger, use a bigger container for a litter box.7. Start feeding solid food when the kittens are about six weeks old.When your kittens have gotten their teeth, you can start thinking about feeding them solid food. If you want to feed dry food, a good quality kitten chow will work fine. Kitten chow has all of the nutrients and protein that they need to keep growing. Kitten chow also is made in tiny kitten-bite-sized pieces. To tempt their appetites and to give them a "treat," you can also try a little canned kitty food. Be sure to provide fresh water for your kittens to drink, as well. And until the kittens are eating solid food regularly, supplement their caloric intake with kitten formula. By this time, you won't have to feed them with a syringe. You can put the formula into a small saucer, and once they discover where it is and what it is, they will drink by themselves.8. Be prepared to be surprised and amazed.Kittens grow very quickly, and on some days, you will think they are growing right before your very eyes.Kittens get their eyes open when they're about 10 days old.They will start purring when they are as young as 6 days old.Kittens will start other "kitty behaviors" such as shaking their heads, attempting to groom and lifting a hind food to scratch behind their ears when they are between two to three weeks old.Young kittens will sometimes get the hiccups (!) while you are feeding them.Young kittens are like baby humans, in a way. Their days consist of eating, sleeping and emptying their bowels and bladders. After the kittens have gotten enough to eat and have had their bodily functions taken care of, when you put them back in the "nest," they will sleep or rest quietly until you are ready to feed them again. If they are restless and crying and meowing, they might need a little more to eat, or they might have to empty their bladders or move their bowels, or they might feel cold.As the kittens grow older, they will have longer periods of being awake and will eventually start playing with each other.By the time the kittens are four weeks old, you will most likely have to move them into a bigger box, if not sooner, because the first one will be too small and they will know how to get out on their own!If you have any questions concerning the raising of orphaned kittens, you can e-mail me at bigpines@ruralroute2.com

LeAnn R. Ralph is the author of the books *Christmas in Dairyland (True Stories from a Wisconsin Farm)* and *Preserve Your Family History (A Step-by-Step Guide for Writing Oral Histories).* She is working on her next book *Give Me a Home Where the Dairy Cows Roam.* You are invited to order a book from Rural Route 2. You are also invited to sign up for LeAnn's FREE! monthly newsletter, Rural Route 2 News. Visit — ruralroute2.com

Do Cats Need Wet Food?

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 29 Jan 2006 19:45:00 -0800

Ever wonder what kind of cat food is better for your feline friend? The following article provides great information. Enjoy:)

Cats Need Wet Food

by Dr. Joseph Mercola

By Beth Taylor and Steve BrownThe natural diet of cats is meat.Cats are meat eaters, designed to thrive on a wide variety of small prey animals, eaten fresh and whole. Their natural diet is high in water and protein, with a moderate amount of fat, and a very low percentage of carbohydrate.Dry cat food is high in grain.A diet of dry food is high in carbohydrate, between 35 and 50 percent. "Diet" and "Lite" foods have even more. Dry food contains almost no water. Dry cat food is convenient to feed, and relatively inexpensive, but its the opposite of the natural diet of cats. Cats have no dietary need for any carbohydrate.Cats need to get water from their food.Cats are descended from feline desert dwellers. They couldnt stroll over to the watering hole for a drink, and cat tongues are not very well designed for drinking water. Cats are adapted to obtain most of their water from their prey, which contains more than 75 percent water. Cats who eat dry food consume only half the water they need, compared to those that eat wet food, and live in a state of chronic dehydration.The common health problems of cats are related to diet.There is increasing evidence, published in peer-reviewed veterinary journals, that many of the health problems seen in cats are the result of diets inappropriate for a feline. Dry, grain-based foods fed to a meat eater, over time, result in both chronic and life-threatening diseases, like these:Obesity: Since cats are designed for a high-protein, moderate-fat, low-carbohydrate diet, it is not surprising that obesity is often seen in cats. Diet cat foods have even more carbohydrate than regular ones, and less fat, so they depart even further from the natural diet of cats, making it harder for them to lose weight.Diabetes: The high level of carbohydrate in dry cat food contributes directly to the development of diabetes in cats. Blood sugar levels rise when cats eat dry food. When this is an ongoing event, insulin-producing cells "downregulate," which leads to diabetes.Kidney disease: Kidney disease is the most common cause of death for cats. The kidneys require an abundant supply of water to do their job. Without water to process the byproducts of the digestion process, the kidneys are overloaded, become damaged over time and unable to do their job.Bladder Problems: Cystitis, bladder irritation and bladder/kidney stone formation are also strongly connected to dehydration. If the body is well hydrated, these problems are minimized.Inflammatory Bowel Syndrome and Disease: These problems are often characterized by vomiting and diarrhea and are very common in cats. Cats who eat a species-appropriate diet rarely suffer from these issues.Dental disease: Dry food has a high sugar (carbohydrate) content, which has been shown to cause dental decay.For cats to derive any supposed abrasive benefit from dry foods to be seen, they would have to actually chew their dry food. Since dry food shatters in their mouths and they then swallow the pieces, theres no abrasive action from chewing something hard. Cats who eat dry food often have very severe dental problems. Many factors contribute to dental health, but it is clear that a high-carbohydrate diet is not beneficial!The Solution: An Appropriate Diet for the SpeciesIts simple: Cats need to eat a diet that is high in protein and water, with a moderate amount of fat, and almost no carbohydrate.Most of the health problems weve discussed here are either radically improved or eliminated by eating a diet that meets the needs of a carnivore -- one which closely resembles the nutritional balance provided by a mouse. For example, many veterinarians now treat diabetes in cats with a meat-based canned diet.Wed like to go a step further, and prevent these diseases.Feed your cat a meat-based diet!We suggest you buy canned food that is designed to be complete, or complete frozen diets that have very little vegetable content. No grain sources should be listed in the ingredient panel. There are grain-free canned cat foods that have some vegetables in them, but vegetables should not be a major component (read our article on how to compute these percentages). "All meat" diets are just that, and they will not meet your cats nutritional needs alone.Make the switch successful!It sounds simple to just switch your cats food. After all, meat tastes better than dry food, but your cat may disagree. Dry foods are designed to be tasty, and many cats are addicted to them. Often, cats are not open to the idea of variety, especially if they have only been fed one food (as we have been advised by pet food companies for decades). Creativity and patience may be needed to switch your cat.Cats will starve themselves, and they are not good candidates for the tough love approach. Some very serious conditions can occur if cats do not eat for an extended period, especially if they are overweight. A slow switch will prevent problems.Here are some ideas to help you along:Establish regular feeding times and put food away in between meals. For many reasons, its best for their bodies not to have food available all the time. If you have dogs, you know what to do with leftovers! Feed multiple cats separately; Consider dry food to be a snack only, not left out all the time. Leave out just a few pieces as a treat. Consider this the equivalent of "kitty junk food." Offer bits of other kinds of fresh food that you are eating. They may be refused, but one day, they wont. Your goal is to get your cat to consider things as food other than dry, crunchy items.Cat whiskers are very sensitive. If food is served in a bowl that interferes with whiskers, it could be enough to keep the cat from considering the food. A flat dish works well.Cats generally prefer their food between room temperature and body temperature. The dry food cats are used to eating is designed to be very smelly. Warming the food releases the flavors and fragrances. Cats choose food by smell, and wet food is a lot less fragrant than a commercial food they have been eating. This is often the reason that the second half of a can of food is refused: The first time it was room temperature!Trickery has been known to work with cats. Put the food on your plate, or hide it in a location cats know to be forbidden. When in doubt, creativity helps!Additions and Considerations. Add sardines for good fats, or use fish oil. A meal of sardines once a week or one small sardine a day adds omega-3 fatty acids in their best form-- whole food. Because cats cant use plant sources of omega-3s at all, animal sources are necessary. If sardines arent appealing to you, use a fresh, high-quality omega-3 fish oil supplemented with vitamin E.Digestive enzymes and a glandular supplement are good additions to replace the parts of prey animals we normally dont feed cats: The stomach contents and smaller glands.We think that the optimum diet for cats is a raw meat-based diet. However, if you feed your cat a canned diet that approximates the balance of his or her natural diet, their diet will be fully hydrated, and you will be much closer to providing your cat with optimum nutrition.If you choose to feed a meat-based canned diet, find a way to simulate components lost in cooking or processing.One way to add live food is with "cat grass," very popular with cats. Its often available in the produce section at the grocery store, or you can grow your own from a kit. This addition often takes the burden off the house plants! Dry "green stuff" is another choice ("Barley Cat" is one product). It takes a very small quantity of a dry product to do the job. Too much can make urine PH too alkaline, and cause some of the problems youre trying to avoid! Tiny pinches of dry green stuff go a long way.For cats, good diet can make the difference between "Old Age" at 12 and 23. Cats who eat dry food are often old and feel quite ill at 9 or 10. Healthy cats can live a very long time, and thats what we hope for your feline carnivore!Contact Steve or Beth for more information at bat31@earthlink.net.Dr. Mercolas Comment:There is indeed a special relationship that exists between pets and their owners that goes far beyond the sharing of a home together. Our happy-go-lucky, four-legged friends also provide us with constant unconditional love, devotion, friendship and something else that might not be at the forefront of most peoples minds -- health benefits.If you have a dog, I highly recommend you read their excellent book, See Spot Live Longer. Using philosophies similar to my own regarding the importance of nutrition, See Spot Live Longer presents solid evidence that a good diet is just as important for dogs as it is for us. When fed a proper raw diet appropriate for their body, hundreds of people, including veterinarians, have witnessed vast health improvements in their dogs.Authors Steve Brown and Beth Taylor, both pet health and nutrition experts, provide an all-inclusive argument for feeding your dog a naturally balanced raw meat, bone and vegetable-based diet that provides much higher quality nutrition than any dry or canned dog or cat food. By convincingly covering all the bases, readers will:Review case studies of dogs and cats with chronic illness that improved after fed a healthy diet of fresh food.Dispel the myths that are sabotaging your dogs health.Learn how the ancestral dogs diet compares to the modern diet dogs eat today.Realize the canine anatomical digest process to better understand why and when our animals are at risk from different types of food and potential toxins.Find out why dry and canned dog foods may be harming your dog.Find out what real fresh foods will protect your dog from cancer and other disease.Discover the importance of exercise and how keeping your dog fit will add years to its life. Learn practical, cost-effective solutions to feeding your dog better for a longer and healthier life.

This article is reprinted from Mercola.com, the worlds #1 most visited and trusted natural/alternative health website. For a limited time only, you can take the FREE "Metabolic Type Test" to help you learn the right foods for your particular body type so you can achieve optimal fitness & health. Just go to http://www.mercola.com/forms/mt_test.htm right now to take this quick test!