How To Train Your Cat

The Cat Whisperer

noreply@blogger.com (paulgreen) — Fri, 07 Dec 2007 18:49:00 +0000

A cat whisper is somewhat similar to a dog or horse whisperer, although cat whisperers relate quite well with cats. These types of people are unusually lucky and very successfully with cats. In most cases, a cat will be abandoned or just show up at someone’s door. In this event, the cat will adopt this individual as the cat whisperer.

Often times, alley cats and black cats will show up at someone’s door and decide to move into their homes. This can be a result of abandonment, or the cat’s family moving away and simply leaving the cat behind. Sometimes, the cat may decide that he likes someone else’s home better and decide to move there instead of staying with his owner.

A lot of people will tell you that a cat whisperer can be thought of as a therapist for cats. Almost all cat whisperers haven’t have any type of training, what they know just seems to come to them naturally. These types of people understand the way a cat thinks and knows how to work with the cat to achieve the results they want. Even though many think of a cat whisperer as a therapist, it actually couldn’t be further from the truth.

Cats who have been abused or mistreated, often times won’t respond to anyone but a cat whisperer. Although others may have tried to help the cat, it will only make matters worse by making the cat feel scared and afraid. In most cases, these cats will end up in a pound. This is very tragic, as the cats have already endured more than they ever should have. A majority of the cats who have been abused were once loved pets. Along the way, they were abandoned, mistreated, attacked by dogs, and in some cases tortured.

Cats who have been treated unfairly often times won’t trust anyone. They are often times confused, in a lot of pain, and not sure what they should do. Like humans, cats feel pain. Those that have been physically abused are a sad sight indeed. Emotionally damaged cats may appear to be in perfect health on the outside, although their emotions are a wreck. Emotionally abused cats are much harder to get through to, especially if they were stray cats to begin with.

Cat whisperers on the other hand, can communicate with physically and emotionally abused cats. Cats know who they will choose to be their cat whisperer, which is normally an individual they sense trust with. Cat whisperers are common with cats, although most people have never heard of them before. Even though a cat whisperer may be able to communicate better with cats, it will still take time to heal a cat that has been abused.

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6 Important Cat Facts

noreply@blogger.com (paulgreen) — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 00:00:00 +0000

Some of the items a cat owners needs are readily apparent: cat food, a litter box, and a cat, for starters! Others only become apparent as necessities after trial and error. As a new cat owner, learn from the experience of others. Read on to discover details about the most common cat items, and learn about others that will make your life as a new cat owner a lot easier. Having all the right items in place before bringing your cat home will help her feel welcomed and comfortable from the minute she sets paw in the door.

1. Food-Related Items

First item of business is a place to put the food. Metal or ceramic containers for food and water are best. Some cats may develop a chin rash related to a plastic food dish. A good option for busy cat owners would be automatic food and water servers, which keep your cat’s meals fresh even when you’re out and about.

For food itself, don’t buy too much before you bring your cat home. Keep your cat’s nutritional needs in mind, as kittens need extra nutrients for growth and overweight cats may need a restricted diet. With this in mind, purchase several brands and flavors of food in both canned and dry varieties for your cat to try. Once you figure out your cat’s favorites, keep those in stock.

2. Litter Box

The use of a litter box is one of the many benefits of being a cat owner. Most popular nowadays is the clumping clay type of litter, because it clumps around urine, making the litter box easy to clean. However, clumping clay can be harmful if ingested, so it should not be used with kittens and may not always be appropriate for adult cats. Plant-based litter is an alternative option.

As for the litter box itself, many shapes and sizes are available. Start simply with a plastic box that fits your cat—adult cats need a sizeable one with high sides, since they tend to throw the litter around a bit. Kittens, on the other hand, need one that is low enough that they can climb in.

3. Grooming Tools

Properly groomed cats are healthier and happier. Grooming can also be an opportunity for you and your cat to bond. Grooming a cat’s hair helps prevent hairballs and keeps your house cleaner, which any allergic visitors would greatly appreciate. To groom hair, purchase a rubber-backed pin brush and a fine-tooth comb.

Clipping your cat’s nails also helps prevent overgrown toenails and excessive scratching. For your cat’s comfort and ease of use, purchase a nail clipper specifically designed for cats.

4. Cat Toys

Cats and cat owners love to play. One of the simplest and favorite cat toys is the “dangling lure” variety. Before purchasing, be certain that all parts are sturdily connected and won’t be a choking hazard for your cat.

Other than the dangling lure, more expensive and creative toys are constantly being invented. Your only limits are space and budget!

5. Cat Carrier

Although a cardboard carrier from the pet store or shelter offers a short-term solution, you will be carrying your cat for many years to come. Even if your cat will live indoors, you will still need to take him out occasionally for vet appointments or possibly for boarding if you take a long trip. For long-term use, purchase a sturdy plastic carrier with a door that latches. Put a favorite blanket in the carrier and your cat will feel comfortable and secure in his travels.

6. Scratching Post

This is an item that new cat owners may not think of, but veteran cat lovers swear by! Cats will scratch—it’s in their nature. Providing your cat with a scratching post can help save your furniture and drapes and keep your cat happy. Like toys, scratching posts are available in a wide variety of shapes, styles, and prices. Many purchased at a store also have catnip scent to attract your cat’s attention. Choose a scratching post based on your home, your cat’s temperament, and your aesthetic preferences.

Now that you have armed yourself with the six basic cat items, you can bring your cat into a comfortable and welcoming home.

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Cat Article courtesy of I-Love-Cats.com

Helping Your Cat Stay Healthy

noreply@blogger.com (paulgreen) — Sat, 10 Nov 2007 18:13:00 +0000

To keep your cat healthy a majority of time, all you really need to do is give him good shelter, food, and plenty of water. Like other living things however, cats can get sick from time to time no matter what you do.

As a cat owner, you’ll want to ensure that you feed your cat only the best. Premium cat food is the ideal for cats, as the food is designed to keep your pet happy and healthy. You’ll also need to pay attention to his behavior, so you’ll know when he’s sick and when to take him to the vet. Most of the more common ailments and sicknesses are minor, although there are some cases where a vet can be the determining factor between life and death for your cat.

Your cat’s behavior will be one of the most critical factors when you are trying to determine whether or not he is under the weather. Acting sluggish, laying around all the time, lack of energy and not eating are all signs that you need to take him to the vet immediately. His coat is also a good thing to watch as well. If you notice his coat dull and patchy or notice him shedding abnormally, you should contact your vet as soon as you possibly can.

Diarrhea and vomiting are sometimes common, even with basic sickness. On the other hand, if your cat seems to be doing either one of the two for more than a day, you should contact your veterinarian. Coughing is common as well, simply because coughing will cats dislodge hairballs. If your cat seems to be coughing for another reason, you should have him checked out as soon as possible.

To ensure that your cat isn’t subjected to various diseases, you should always make sure that he stays up do date with his vaccinations. There are several diseases out there that require vaccinations, including rabies and feline distemper. Feline distemper is one of most devastating diseases a cat can get, yet it is also one of the easiest to prevent as well. The disease strikes cats very fast, and leaves you as an own very little time to seek treatment.

Feline leukemia is another disease that is very deadly, yet can be prevented early on with the proper vaccinations. Although the disease isn’t possible for humans to contract, it can be spread quickly among cats. There are vaccinations that can treat the disease these days, although you’ll still want to be careful and not expose other cats around a cat you know has feline leukemia.

Another problem, which is very common with cats that stay outdoors, is worms. Cats that have worms will normally have a lackluster coat and little to no appetite. There are several different types of worms, including ringworm and hookworm. Worms can come from fleas, lice, or even the organs of dead rodents that cats consume. Normally, the cat will digest the eggs which will later mature and attach themselves to the walls of the intestines. If you feed your cat garlic frequently during feedings, it can help to protect him against worms.

If you take care of your cat, chances are you’ll keep him healthy for years to come. You should always make sure he has quality food, and doesn’t miss any of his scheduled checkups with the vet. If he gets the proper vaccinations when he is required to get them, he should be safe against numerous pests and diseases. Taking the proper steps with your cat now will prevent anything from happening in the future.

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Tips For Getting Your Cat To Eat Canned Food

noreply@blogger.com (paulgreen) — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 18:06:00 +0000

Tips For Getting Your Cat To Eat Canned Food
By Darlene L. Norris

You've decided your cat would be better off eating a high-quality canned food to prevent feline diabetes, obesity, bladder infections, kidney problems, and other health problems associated with commercial dry food. But she turns her nose up at it! How do you get her to eat it? Your kitty is a creature of habit, and she doesn't like changes, especially in what she eats. She's used to the crunchy texture of dry food. If she's never eaten canned food before, she may not even recognize the stuff sitting in her dish as something edible.

Pet food manufacturers coat dry food with meat "digests," a tasty blend of fermented animal entrails. This is what makes a cereal-based dry food attractive to an animal that is designed to eat meat, not grains. It's similar to sugar-coating breakfast cereals to make them more attractive to children. And like a child, your buddy may resist eating a diet that's healthier for her, since she really does like the taste of dry food.

Be patient, as it may take a couple of months to switch her over.

To make the transition from dry to canned, the first step is to stop leaving dry food out. You need to establish a routine of set mealtimes. If you're like most cat owners, you're in the habit of leaving food in a feeder all the time so your buddy can have a nibble any time she wants. Contrary to popular opinion, your feline friend does not need food available 24/7. Feeding her twice a day is fine.

Yes, she'll be pitiful, and she'll try to convince you she's going to expire from hunger right in front of you. But don't fall for it. You have her best interests at heart, although she may not think so! Remember, your objective isn't to starve her into eating a new food, but you do need her to be ready to eat at mealtimes so she's more likely to try something new.

Once she's used to eating twice a day, try giving her a little canned food along with the dry. Over the course of a week or so, increase the amount of canned and decrease the amount of dry until she's eating only canned food. It may not be that easy, though, as some kitties are pretty set in their ways. In this case, try giving her only canned food at one feeding. If she doesn't eat it, wait a couple of hours and try again. You may want to try a different flavor or another brand. Whatever you do, don't cave in and give her dry food just yet.

If she hasn't eaten anything in 18 hours, give her about one-quarter cup of dry food. Don't let your cat go more than 24 hours without eating, especially if she's overweight, as she could develop hepatic lipidosis, a potentially fatal condition.

You need to be sure she's eating at least 15 calories per pound of body weight every day. You don't know how much she weighs? Weigh yourself, then pick up your buddy and weigh both of you together. Subtract your weight from the combined weight of you and your kitty, and you'll have a ballpark figure. If she weighs about 18 pounds, but should weigh 12, she needs 180 calories a day, which is 12 pounds times 15 calories. If she doesn't need to lose any weight, the formula is the kitty's weight in pounds times 13.6 plus 70. So if she weighs 12 pounds, 12 times 13.6 plus 70 is 233, the number of calories needed to maintain her body weight.

Canned food labels don't list the calorie content, but canned food with about 78 percent moisture averages about 30 calories per ounce. It can vary from 20 to 40 calories, so you may need to contact the pet food manufacturer to get this information.

Most kitties do lose weight when they're transitioned to canned food. This is usually a good thing, as feline obesity is a huge problem. Your cat shouldn't lose more than one to two percent of her body weight per week. If she weighs 20 pounds, 20 times 16 ounces is 320 ounces. One percent of 320 is 3.2 ounces per week, which is less than 1/4 pound. With care and patience, you can train your kitty to eat a healthier diet, and help her lose weight in the process.

Darlene L. Norris has been owned by many kitties over the years. Now I've combined my love for cats and my life-long interest in herbs and healing at [http://www.your-cat-care-guide.com]Your Cat Care Guide - Information on natural remedies for cats can be hard to find. Stay up-to-date on the latest herbal and homeopathic treatments for your feline friends!

Does your favorite kitty have feline diabetes? Visit http://www.your-cat-care-guide.com/diabetes.html now to discover a safe, effective natural remedy to lower his blood sugar levels.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Darlene_L._Norris

Cats Bonding With Their Owners

noreply@blogger.com (paulgreen) — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 18:06:00 +0000

There are a lot of experts out there who say that cats are strictly independent animals. These very same experts state that cats have chosen to associate with humans due to their strategy of survival. Although many argue with this statement, there are many who agree as well – although those that agree are normally those in the percentile who don’t agree with cats.

Anyone who has owned a cat will tell you that cats are great at bonding with people, although they are very particular. Normally, a cat will choose someone in the home that he bonds with. You’ll know when a cat wants to bond with you, as he will hop on your lap seeking attention or snuggle up to you at night when you are sleeping. Purring is a strong sign of affections, especially with cats that are looking to bond.

Although many experts have tried to figure it out, no one really knows why cats choose a particular person whom they will bond with. It could be the individual’s manners, voice, or simply how that person treats the cat. Perhaps it may be the individual is really gentle, or maybe a little more forceful – bringing the best out in the cat.

There are a lot of ways that researchers have tried to take this subject, one of which being psychic. Some say that cats bond with someone due to a “psychic aura” that is compatible with both the person and the cat. If a cat feels that someone is giving them a bad vibe, they will simply ignore that person. Although this can be true to a sense for some, a majority of those who own cats will tell you that this couldn’t be any further from the truth.

Even though there are a lot of theories and speculation out there, no one really knows why cats bond with humans. There’s little to no proof available as well, other than cats and their natural instinct for physical survival. Those who own cats know that cats crave attention, simply to make them feel needed. They love to be pampered by their owners, and will shower you with attention and affection if you just give them the chance.

Those who are new to owning cats may find bonding to be very different. Cats are different from other animals, including dogs, in the sense that they bond different. Different breeds of cats will bond different with their owners, although most prefer affection and attention. The more time you spend around your cat, the more he will bond with you. Over the years, you’ll find that the bond you create with your pet has grown very strong – and simply cannot be broken.

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10 Quality Play Tips for Your Cat

noreply@blogger.com (paulgreen) — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 10:50:00 +0000

Boredom can sometimes be the root of feline behaviour problems such as neurotic
chewing, compulsive grooming, over eating, and in some cases aggression.

Even 15 minutes of quality play with your cat could prove to be beneficial when it
comes to improving your cat's mental health and physical well being. In addition,
playing with your cat regularly will also help to strengthen your bond.

Here are some fun ideas to add a bit of excitement to your cat's every day routine.

PAPER BAG (without handles)
Cats love little places where they think nobody can see them. Get out a paper bag,
and watch how much fun your cat will have with such a simple item. They love to
play in and out of it. You could even cut out a few holes in the bag and put in one
of his favourite cat toys. This is sure to keep him busy!

BURIED TREASURE
Stuff one of his toys in between the couch cushions, or under a pillow. Your kitty
will enjoy this hunting game. Once he has retrieved it, try another hiding place.

SWAT GAME
If you don't have a cat toy that you could dangle in front of your cat, create one.
Simply tie a string to the end of a chopstick and attach an object to the string. You
could try a feather or one of his existing toys.

Cats love this game of back and forth SWAT!

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Tips For Introducing Cats - part 2

noreply@blogger.com (paulgreen) — Sun, 28 Oct 2007 20:30:00 +0000

At first, your current cat may howl and hiss when he stands at the door, trying to tell the other cat that he doesn’t belong. When this happens you should ignore it, as punishing your cat for his behavior will only lead to more problems. After a while, the first cat will start to act calm when he is near the new cat’s door. As he starts to act calm, you should pet him and give him praise.

When your first cat starts to go by your new cat’s door and doesn’t howl or hiss; you can start introducing them to each other. The best way to do this is to get them used to each others scent. You can start letting them eat out of the same food dish, although you’ll want to feed them at different intervals at first. This way, the scent of each cat will be present at the food dish, and each cat will get the scent when he eats his food.

Once both cats have got used to the scent, you can begin to feed them closer together. To do this, you should keep your new cat in the safe room with the door closed, and your first cat on the other side of the door with his food dish. This time, feed both cats at the same time. After doing this a few times, they should start eating without any hissing or growling. At this point, they are ready to be introduced to one another.

When you introduce them to each other in the same room, a bit of growling and hissing is to be expected. Although they may be used to each others scent; your first cat will still feel a bit awkward with your new cat being in his territory. You should play with them both at first, so they can smell one another and greet in their own way. If they start to fight you should break them up, and give them some time apart.

It may take some time to get them fully used to one another, although once they do – they will become playmates for life. Cats love to be social, although it may be a bit rough at first, especially for your first cat. Cats can be very territorial, especially if you have a kitten around. If you get both of them used to each other early on – it will be a lot easier to add future cats to your home.

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Tips For Introducing Cats - part 1

noreply@blogger.com (paulgreen) — Sat, 27 Oct 2007 15:49:00 +0000

When you decide to add a new cat to your home, it’s normally more exiting for you and your family than it is for the cat you already own. Although most cats are solitary by nature, most will also come to accept or eventually tolerate any additions. Cats can be very territorial, which is why you should always be careful when you introduce a new cat to your current cat.

If you are introducing kittens to one another, the entire introduction process can be short, lasting as little as 10 – 15 days. Introducing cats to each other all depends on their temperament and their personality. When you introduce a new cat to your current cat, you should always make sure that you give your current cat plenty of love and attention. This way, your cat will feel secure and know that he isn’t in competition with your new cat for affection.

When you bring your new cat home, you should let him stay in a safe room until you have finished introducing the cats. Your safe room can be any small room in your home, such as a bathroom or spare bedroom. The key here is to use a room that your current cat doesn’t go in. In the room, you should leave your new cat a scratching post, bed, water dish, litter box, and food dish.

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Things To Know Before Breeding Your Cat

noreply@blogger.com (paulgreen) — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 15:00:00 +0000

The population of cats is the United States alone is unbelievable. Nearly all experts will tell you that you should spay your cat instead of breed it. No matter what experts have to say, a lot of people want to have a litter of kittens from their cat. Before you decide to breed your cat, there are a few things that you should think about.

The first thing you should know is that breeding cats takes time. For the next two months after the litter is born, you’ll need to clean the area on a daily basis. You’ll also need to watch over the kittens as well, and keep a close eye on how they are developing. If you plan to breed a litter of cats, you won’t have time for much of anything else.

Breeding cats will also require a good degree of space as well. If you have a small apartment, you shouldn’t attempt to breed a cat. You should also make sure that your family agrees with the idea, as it isn’t good for the kittens if you keep them locked up. Keep in mind that kittens like to see things; they’ll end up going all over your home as well.

Breeding cats also requires a degree of responsibility as well. You should always have a plan of approach, including homes for the kittens to go that you aren’t planning to keep. Keep in mind that things can change, someone who wanted a cat may change his mind once the litter is born. In this event, you must decide whether or not you can keep a kitten that doesn’t have a home.

Breeding also requires some education as well. You should be prepared for any problems along the way, as well as what takes place during birth. From cutting umbilical cords to delivering early, you’ll need to be well prepared. You should also have the proper supplies, and know how to handle things in the event of a c-section. You’ll also need to know what to feed pregnant cats, as their diets are very important if you are breeding.

Breeding will also cost money as well, with kittens costing a lot more money than you may think. The food isn’t the only thing that’s expensive, as the vet bills can also get expensive. Even though you may go through the entire pregnancy without going to the vet, you’ll still need de-worming and vaccination medicines as well.

In short, there is a lot to think about where breeding is concerned. If you have your mind set on it and you want to breed, you should be sure that you have the proper knowledge and everything you need before hand. You should always be ready to handle anything associated with breeding – and prepare yourself for the worst possible scenario.

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Can You Train a Cat?

noreply@blogger.com (paulgreen) — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 14:50:00 +0000

We have heard of dogs performing tricks, but not many people seem to train their cats, apart from the basic house-training such as using the litter tray. If cats can learn to use a litter- tray and come for food, they can be trained to do other things as well. The only thing we humans have to learn is how to train them. Using a cat’s natural traits to train them is one good way.

We know that cats dislike loud noise and water in the face, so a water gun to spray them with or something that makes a loud noise when they do the wrong thing is a good way to train. Remember, physical smacks and general abuse are not the way to train a cat. This will only serve to make kitty mistrust you and that will be the end of any training. You need to establish trust and friendship with your pet above all else, and any training needs to be carried out in a calm, quiet atmosphere, and at the right time of day. It’s no use deciding to get kitty out of a lovely snooze and expect to train him to jump or fetch for you. You need to wait until he is showing signs of liveliness and is ready to play.

Like dogs, cats have different temperaments. Some cats resist training, or else they seem to be dumber than others. A dumb cat can still make a great pet. It simply means that you will have to be content with him the way he is. Other cats seem to be very bright and willing to learn whatever you are trying to teach them. One thing all cats need is a close relationship with their owners. They need to be handled a lot as kittens. If you have to leave kitty alone all day, you are not likely to develop a close enough relationship with him to be able to train him properly.

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