Feline Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the eye. It's more commonly known as "Cat Pink Eye" and is probably the most common eye problem cats have. Actually to provide a more precise definition, conjunctivitis is an inflamed conjunctiva, which is the thin, delicate membrane that covers the eyeball and lines the eyelid. The conjunctiva also creates a seal with the nictitating membrane "the third eye." (The nictitating membrane is a transparent or translucent third eyelid present in some animals like the cat that can be drawn across the eye for protection and to moisten the eye while also allowing visibility.)
A healthy conjunctiva is a slightly pale pink. When infected it swells and becomes much darker. This is why cats with conjunctivitis are often referred to as "pink-eyed."
What are the Signs of Cat Pink Eye?
1. Frequent squinting - your kitty looks sort of like one of the "Lolipop Kids" from the Wizard of Oz.
2. Watery or mucous-like discharge that's clear, yellow, and gray with pus.
3. The pink membrane lining, or conjunctiva, that surrounds kitty's eye is a much darker pink almost red and swollen.
4. Third eye protrusion. The nictitating membrane actually begins to protrude a bit because of the swollen conjunctiva.
5. The part of the eye called the iris, the beautiful colored part of kitty's eye will probably appear duller than usual or in some cases be an entirely different color.
6. Kitty is pawing or rubbing the eye.
7. Sometimes cat eye infections are accompanied by frequent sneezing and possibly an upper respiratory tract infection.
It is important to note that conjunctivitis should be treated as soon as possible. Although conjunctivitis is not life threatening, if it isn't treated in time, can spread from the conjunctiva to other parts of the eye eventually causing severe damage to the cat's eyesight.
Besides, all you have to do is take one look to know that the infectious condition is red, raw and sore. And you can tell immediately by paying attention to kitty's behavior that Feline Conjunctivitis is a very upsetting condition. The sooner you get relief for kitty the better!
To grab your free report on your cat's health [http://buyingandowningacat101.com/] and to receive some really good tips on owning and caring for a cat visit [http://buyingandowningacat101.com/]
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3560447
Cats show affection to you as an owner in many different ways. Some cats will show a lot of affection while other cats will show less. They have body language that you can pick up on that tells you how they are feeling. Here are some ways cats show affection for you.
Slow Blinking of Eyes
A cat may show affection to you by slowly blinking their eyes at you. This is a sign of affection but not many people realize it when the cat does it. Watch your cat for a while and see if this happens.
Grooming
Cats send a lot of time grooming but this isn't always about keeping clean. They use this to bond with you and to relive stress. If your cat comes over and licks you it's a sign you are a part of their "cat family". The cat will do this as a way of showing you affection but it's another one that we often don't pick up on as actually a sign of cat affection.
Butting and Head Rubbing
A cat loves to walk around your legs and rub its head or butt against you. This is a sign of marking you as property. The face of a cat has pheromones and these are rubbed onto you so the cat feels comfortable around you. Each cat has different pheromones so they can recognize you easily. They do this a lot when sitting on your lap and when you go to pet the cat they may want to rub their head against you. This is a sign of affection to you.
Following You
If the cat likes to follow you from room to room in the house they are showing interest in you and want to be in the same place that you are. A cat that doesn't show other kinds of affection may just follow you around and give you affection that way.
Gifts
No one likes to see a dead birds or a snake in the house but the cat is showing you affection this way by presenting gifts to you. It's not the right move to scold the cat when the animal does this because it's a sign of affection towards you. The cat is hoping that you'll be pleased with the gift brought to you.
Excitement
If you have been gone a long time, the cat may act exited when you get home and may run around more than normal or be a bit of a pest. This is normal and it's a sign of affection towards you.
On the Belly
A cat that rolls over and show you their belly is showing you that they trust and care about you. A cat won't do this in the wild because the animal would be attacked. If your cat does this the animal is showing you that you're important.
These are some of the ways that your cat will show affection to you as the owner. Your cat may do all of these or just a few it all depends on the mood of the cat and how they feel towards you.
So, does your cat love you? If your cat shows some signs that we mention above, then you can be sure your feline friend cares about you. If you live in UK, please checkout essential cat supplies from our site: pet supplies uk reviews
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8042575
Cat illnesses are not always easy to spot. Animals cannot tell you where it hurts or what their symptoms are. As owners it is our responsibility to keep a careful eye on our pets and spot the signs that indicate they have a problem.
It is even more important to monitor your cat as they get older. Cats like humans are living longer these days and many reach their late teens or early twenties. With older cats it is well worth taking them to you vet for a check-up at least every year.
Just like us as they age they begin to show signs of wear and tear. You will often find that they do not eat as much as in the past. It can often be worth changing their eating pattern and give them 3 or 4 small meals a day rather than the two larger meals they ate as younger cats.
As your cat gets older it is natural that they will slow down and they will not be as athletic. This in itself is just a natural result of the aging process. However, there are signs that you should look for in your older cat. The first signs of cat illnesses are bad breath, which could indicate dental problems or the onset of kidney problems. Cats are very prone to kidney failure and it is one of the most common causes of cat mortality. A cat can lose about 70% of its kidney function before any symptoms appear.
It is also important with older cats to monitor how much they are eating and drinking. A loss of appetite can indicate dental problems or progressive kidney failure. Another sign of kidney problems could be if your cat appears to have an increased thirst and drinks much more water than they did before. There are now cat foods especially developed for older cats and you might consider changing over to one of these.
With older cats you should also physically check them from time to time for signs of swellings or weight loss. Either of these could indicate a problem such as a tumour and in this case you should consult your vet.
No one knows your cat better than you and by checking and observation you should be able to spot any sign of cat illnesses. It is also important to keep your cats vaccinations and inoculations up to date as older cats can be more vulnerable to infection.
To learn more about Cat Care [http://www.catcarementor.com] and Caring for Cats [http://www.cat-lovers.co.uk] visit our web site where you will find much to interest and inform cat lovers.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5231035
Preventing your cat from being sick is an essential factor that you must keep in mind. There are a lot of cat illnesses that can be fatal to your cat; however, you should know that you can always take the proper preventive measures to avoid these complications. To be able to identify what your pet might be suffering from and find its cure, here is a quick reference guide that you can use.
A cat commonly shows the symptom of not being interested in food when it is not feeling well. This can be due to a number of factors, the typical ones being that your cat is experiencing a sudden change in its environment. Even the mere rearrangement of furniture might cause your cat to be distracted or stressed to the extent that it loses its appetite.
A change in its diet might also be the cause, but take note that all other at illnesses might be related to this symptom. If your cat does not go back to its normal demeanor within 24 hours, you might want to consider going to the vet.
On a different note, viral infections are deemed as the most dangerous among all cat illnesses, as these infections are truly fatal for cats. The various means that your cat might acquire a viral infection include mishandling of its food and beverage, exchange of bodily fluids with another cat, insect bites or fluids such as flea saliva, ingestion of fecal matter and other substances, among others. These examples might be avoided if you pay attention to your house's cleanliness and make sure that your place is conducive for growing a cat.
Parasites such as worms are also typical in felines, yet this situation can be controlled with ease compared to curing infections caused by viruses. Vaccines or oral medications can be used to de-worm your cat and prevent those irritating organisms to come back. Sometimes, it can also be helpful to give your pet formulated cat foods that are made to prevent parasites from growing inside your pet's digestive system. Alternately varying the type of food that your cat eats might also avoid these worms from growing, as the condition of the stomach is constantly changed.
Certain associations have conducted studies and identified around two hundred plant species that might be fatal for cats when ingested. Keeping your pet from nibbling anything that it sees might be the best preventive measure you can do. Also, if you are not sure if the plants you have at home would be harmful to your pet, just make sure that you would put the plants on a safe location where your cat would not be able to reach it or bite it.
Getting the opinion of your veterinarian on any matter would be best especially if you are very confused with the symptoms that you are seeing on your cat. Remember that cat illnesses should be taken care of as soon as possible to prevent it from aggravating.
Learn more about caring for kittens and find the best cat cages by visiting our website today!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5473360
When it comes to illness, cats are masters of disguise. Think about this - in nature, if a cat allows himself to look or act sick, larger animals will see him as weaker and will be more likely to attack. So it is in a cat's own best interest to keep any illness or pain he feels well hidden. It is up to us as cat owners to be aware of some of the more subtle signs of illness in our cats, so that they can be addressed quickly, with the least possible impact to our cat's health.
For instance, if your cat suddenly refuses to use the litter box and is urinating other places, a medical issue may be causing this, especially if it is happening along with any of the other symptoms listed below. Watch your cat for other changes in behavior, such as disinterest in eating, lack of or change in grooming, and vomiting. If your cat appears to be struggling to pee, or unable to control his peeing, these can also be symptoms of illness. Inappropriate urination issues can often be corrected by addressing these symptoms with your vet.
Here is a list of cat illness symptoms that may be serious. You should schedule a visit with the veterinarian if your cat shows any of these:
- Inappropriate Urination, especially if it happens suddenly, for no obvious reason
- Urine or excrement contains blood
- Loss of appetite
- Disinterest in grooming
- Suddenly gaining or losing a great deal of weight
- Runny nose
- Prolonged bouts of sneezing
- Drinking much more or much less water
- Peeing more or less frequently
- Coat appears messy or loses its shine
- Lack of energy
- Inability to control urination
- Apparent distress during urination
- Excessive vomiting
For ourselves, we often will give it a few days when we begin to feel ill, assuming that our bodies will heal naturally without seeing the doctor. But with a cat, because they keep their illness so secret, we may not even be aware that our cat is sick until it becomes serious. A cat who is sick can appear to have a sudden onset of a serious disease, but chances are the symptoms have been there some time and they are just now becoming apparent to humans. Once a cat is obviously sick, his health may be threatened, and a trip to the vet may be very time critical. Even though it may seem expensive, it will be less expensive if done in the beginning; the vet may be able to begin treatment right away and you may be able to ward off more serious issues.
So for the sake of your beloved cat's health, learn to watch for these cat illness symptoms, and be ready to act quickly with a trip to the vet.
If you are struggling with inappropriate urination issues, a very helpful resource can be found in Mike Whyte's book "Thinking Outside The Box" (How to Stop Your Cat Peeing Outside the Litter Box). If illness is not what's causing it, this book will help you identify and deal with what is!
I adore all cats, and I believe that every cat and cat lover deserves a happy and harmonious home together. I am always seeking out information about cats and I enjoy sharing it with other people who enjoy them as much as I do. Please visit my blog at http://www.ourcatsplace.com/ for my latest updates!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3970303
After dogs, cats are the most popular family pet and they can wiggle their way into their owners' hearts just by purring. Getting a pet is a long-term commitment for every member of the family because the animal will require ongoing care. People should be aware of how long cats live in order to determine whether they are able to handle the responsibility.
The average lifespan of a cat is 12 to 15 years, but some indoor felines live into their twenties. Cats that go outdoors usually do not live as long as their indoor brethren because they are subject to additional dangers. These include fighting with other cats, getting hit by a car, catching diseases, and becoming the victims of accidental or intentional violence.
According to the 2007 Guinness World Records book, the cat that lived the longest was located in Austin, Texas. Creme Puff reached the ripe old age of 38 years prior to her death in 2005. Manx and Siamese cats are thought to be the breeds of pedigreed cats that live the longest. With a reported life span that sometimes reaches 30 years, the Jaguar is believed to be the longest living cat species.
In order to keep a cat healthy, it is recommended that the animal be taken to the vet once per year for a check-up and recommended vaccinations. The cat should also have proper dental care and the vet can provide gum and tooth cleanings throughout the life of the feline. Healthy teeth and gums can prevent infections that may cause problems in other areas of the body.
The food that a cat eats can also make a difference in how long the animal lives. Cats have certain nutritional requirements and these should be met by feeding the feline either dry or wet cat food. Dry food can be left out throughout the day, while wet food should not be left out for a long time because it can spoil. Semi-moist foods are not usually the best choice because they tend to contain artificial colors and flavors as well as preservatives.
An individual should consider how long cats live prior to getting a cute little kitten. An indoor feline that is properly cared for may live for up to 20 years. Outdoor cats often do not live past ten years due to the dangers that they encounter on a daily basis. Regardless of whether the cat lives indoors or outdoors, it will need to be taken to the vet and vaccinated on an annual basis.
It is also important to ensure your cat is well taken care of. For more information on one product that can help, CatGenie Washable Granules [http://www.selfcleaninglitterboxdirect.com].
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4537418
They say cats have nine lives but in reality, we all know they only have one. We need to make sure that they are properly looked after and given the best care and attention to ensure they live as long as possible. Pets are great friends to humans and cats are one of the most popular pet choices in the UK. So, here's some cat health care tips on what you can do to give your cat the best possible chance of living a long and happy life.
It's A Cat's Life
Did you know that indoor cats can live up to 20-22 years old? This poses the question of whether it is better to keep your cat inside permanently, and there are many that would be against this, as they feel it hinders the cat's innate sense of curiosity and outside familiarity. However, outdoor cats can live a long time too.
Cat Health Care Tips
The best thing you can do to make your cat live longer is to ensure their health is good. Feed your cat a normal, healthy diet and try to give it lots of physical activity. Although cats don't need as much exercise as dogs, they still need to be able to get some fresh air and have long lazy days on the lawn. Some people do mistake of under-feeding their cats though, and this is mostly due to the owner thinking the cat's frame is so small that they couldn't possibly require a lot of food. Although a cat is quite a small animal, it still requires regular and routine feeding to ensure it stays in good health. This should also help your cat to live longer.
Hairballs Are Nasty
Another good tip is to brush your cat's fur regularly as hairballs are a common problem with our feline friends. They are caused by loose hair which the cat then licks and gets stuck in its throat. You have to remember that a cat's throat is tiny and hair can make them choke. As cats get older, they might struggle with being able to cough up hairballs so it is even more important that you keep on top of this. Brush the fur every day if you can and check its claws while you're at it - make sure they are at a safe length for your pet.
Let Your Cat Be Happy
It is important to remember that these cat health care tips are nothing out of the ordinary; they are mostly just common sense. Pet owners should always do their research before owning a pet. Having a cat that lives as long as possible is nice, but many pet owners would say it is far more important that your cat has a happy and fulfilling life.
For more information on cats, be sure to visit this very popular site all about Cat Health Care. Visit http://www.pethealthinfo.org.uk/ today.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/2908688
Is your cat misbehaving? An aggressive or overly angry cat is not a very pleasant animal. Cats can actually be a danger to those around it and especially when anger is directed at you with biting or excessive scratching. Kittens that play rough are trainable provided you do not play rough with them. How does a cat owner deal with this situation? Bad cat behavior when handled in a tactful manner is correctable without much retaliation from your cat.
- Do not yell at your cat. This action will do more harm than good. Cats, much like other animals, do not respond well to yelling and that will only make the cat fearful of you, or worse yet, angry with you. Pets that are angry with their owners tend to act out and misbehave on purpose, which creates an entirely different set of problems and does not correct the behavior problems.
- Cats hate water. The easiest way to discourage bad behavior is by spraying a cat with water if they are doing something you do not approve of. It will help reduce the chances of happening again because it learns faster from the negative conditioning of getting wet. Cover up your efforts and hide the spray bottle so your cat does not associate the spraying coming from you. You do not want the cat to become afraid of you because of the water bottle. This is called modifying behavior through repetition. Stick to that standard, and the cat will soon realize what is "bad" and what's "good," because bad behavior gets a spray to the face.
- Loneliness or boredom can also make a cat become aggressive. In either case, give the cat with something to do. A scratching post or a toy is a simple way of entertainment, or you can handle it yourself and give your cat some personal attention. Playing with your cat makes him feel wanted and loved. Cats require less maintenance than dogs, but they do not handle loneliness and boredom as well.
- If you own a cat that routinely fights with other cats then the aggression is far too much to tolerate. Have your cat spayed or neutered if the activity is sexual in nature, or you can quit putting your cat out at night to stop the chances of getting into fights with other neighborhood felines.
- A firm no is a sign to a cat that such bad behavior is not wanted. As mentioned before, do not combine this no with hitting or slapping, because that will just make the cat act out more. However, a firm "no" without yelling, combined with a lack of affection such as petting or treats will send the message to the cat that get the things he or she enjoys, (namely treats and affection), a change in behavior is necessary.
These five steps can change your cat's behavior for the better and leave you with an all-around better pet than before. Changing your cat's bad behavior requires patience, but the cat will eventually learn what to do if you deal with the behavior effectively.
I have been a pet owner all of my life and for the last thirty years my wife and I have raised over a dozen cats. Please visit my website at: http://tipsaboutcats.com is your information source for their health, diet, disposition, and exercise. We even show the basics of making your own cat toys and condos. All tips and proceeds from this website is contributed to our local animal shelter who is short of funds from the county. I have a number of recommended natural food, supplements, products and books that are in my store which will save you time hunting on the web for at http://tipsaboutcats.com/store/. There are two expert interviews in the blog pages that are must reads because they will answer most of your questions and concerns about natural cat health and diet. Please feel free to leave comments on my website where you will also find links to me on Facebook and Twitter.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6609535
Often, pet owners choose a cat because they are fairly independent creatures. However, as self-sufficient as they may seem, it is vital that they have regular health checks and that owners keep an eye out for any changes in behavior or health that could indicate serious problems. The following is a brief guide to basic cat health care.
Buy a Secure Cat Carrier
When buying beds, litter boxes and toys, one of the most essential purchases is a travel carrier. Carriers are essential, because it is unsafe for both you and the cat to travel without one.
A carrier can be bought from all good pet stores. However, it is wise to ensure that the carrier of your choice is secure and comfortable, with enough room to stand and turn around. The carrier can be used when traveling with your cat, but it may principally be used for trips to the vet.
Find a Good Vet
The first job of any new pet owner is to find a good local vet. This may seem simple enough, but you will find that many vets are overcrowded and perhaps understaffed, which means that your cat will not be offered the time and care that he, or she, needs.
In addition, when visiting prospective vets, it is wise to ensure that the premises are clean and sanitary. Moreover, it is a good idea to check the policy regarding dogs in the waiting room. If leashes are not mandatory, then a dog could intentionally, or unintentionally, harm another patient.
It may be helpful to speak to friends and/or relatives with pets to find out which vet they use and what their opinions of the service are.
Ensure Your Cat Has Regular Check Ups
Once you have found a good vet in your area, it is important that your cat has regular check ups. Usually, this should be carried out annually. Remember, even if your cat is an indoor pet and seems in tip-top condition, it is important that he, or she, gets the once over from the vet. Cats are very stoic creatures, which means illness may not be spotted until it is too advanced to treat effectively. Regular checks can indicate the early stages of illness or prevent possible health problems. Your cat probably will not thank you for it, but it is in the animal's best interests.
Keep Up to Date with Vaccinations
Cats will need to have annual booster vaccinations for a number of diseases, such as rabies, cat flu and distemper. It is important to ensure that these booster shots are given, because otherwise your cat has no protection against theses conditions. Bear in mind, even if your cat is kept indoors, bacteria and germs can be brought into the house by you and others. Therefore, it is crucial that all vaccinations are kept up-to-date.
When your cat is given a shot, it is always a good idea to ask the vet if there are any side effects that you may notice.
Don't Forget Your Cat's Teeth
When your vet checks the overall health of your cat, he, or she, will pay particular attention to the animal's mouth and teeth. If your cat's oral health is cause for concern, your vet may encourage you to brush your cat's teeth. If so, it is wise to follow his, or her, advice.
Make Note of Changes in Your Cat's Behavior
For any pet owner, it is a good idea to make note of any change in an animal's behavior. For example, is your cat scratching or grooming more than usual? Have you noticed a change in his, or her, eating habits? Any changes, no matter how small, should prompt you to consult with your vet. As mentioned above, cats are good at masking symptoms of illness, so any unusual behavior should be taken seriously.
Of course, this is not an exhaustive list of cat health care requirements. However, the above should give new or prospective owners a good idea of basic health care responsibilities.
Samantha Markham is a professional writer, she is currently composing articles for remmeer.com, a high quality supplier of unique pet products. Visit remmeer.com for a range of personalized cat name collars, cat frames & photo albums and much, much more.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4652191
The incredible pleasure of companionship given by your feline friends comes with certain responsibilities and obligations. Continuing your joy of keeping them company would greatly depend on how well you understand and provide for their needs. Learning about proper cat health care is important for all cat owners. Giving them love, proper care and attention will not only ensure great health for your cats. It also ensures a long and happy life.
General Needs
Your cat has several needs, which you need to pay close attention to. It needs to receive proper nourishment, proper grooming, the right medical attention in the event of a cat illness and the right pregnancy care for female cats later in its life. Not only does proper cat health care demand time and attention, it also demands a certain amount of budget to sufficiently and timely provide for all your cat's needs.
Feeding
The key to health is getting the right food. The same rule applies in ensuring optimum cat health. Putting it under a good diet and giving it the best cat food you can obtain will not only protect your cat from getting any common cat illness. It will also yield huge savings on veterinary bills. Hence, compromising the quality of cat food over value is poor economy. Investing on your cat's health means trusting the name of American Association of Feed Control Officers (AAFCO) approved cat food manufacturers. You can consult your veterinarian on this regard so you can give your pet the kind of food that is appropriate for its age, breed or health condition.
Grooming
A kitten is born with the innate ability to groom itself. You see mother cats licking her kittens soon after they were born to help them breathe. Grooming is something that comes natural among cats. For the most part, your cat can answer to its grooming needs. However, there are a number of reasons why you should use some grooming techniques for your cat. Long-haired cats need extra help to prevent getting matted fur. Occasionally combing your cat's fur prevents parasites such as fleas, lice and ticks from settling on the fur. Some cat owners even enjoy occasionally bathing and trimming the claws of their cats. Some would even go to the lengths of brushing the cat's teeth. Aside from giving them a pleasant experience with their best pets, it also prevents the onslaught of common cat parasites.
Common Cat Health Problems
From simple inconveniences, cat illness, to life threatening accidents, the concern about common cat health problems is an experience shared by all cat owners. These problems range from simple inconveniences to life-threatening illnesses. Noticing a cat illness coming is extremely helpful in limiting the risks involved. The following should guide you through your pet care experience.
Hair Balls
You cat is likely to experience a problem called hair ball. The condition is caused by the accumulation of fur inside the cat's body due to its grooming habits. The accumulated fur or hair ball usually becomes a source of irritation when the cat fails to eliminate it on the litter box or through coughing. Once the hair ball compacts with the undigested food in the intestines, it needs to be surgically removed to avoid serious health complications. Noticing symptoms such as dry and hacking cough, vomiting after meals, hair entwined with feces, constipation, diarrhea, poor appetite and weight loss means that your cat suffers from hair ball. A veterinarian's instructed use of mineral oil or petroleum lubricants and other petrochemical products may be used to relieve these symptoms.
Plant Poisoning
Cats love to chew on things, especially green things. Your cat's fondness for your indoor as well as outdoor plants can be very dangerous especially when you are using pesticides on these plants. As you cat chews on its leaves, it might ingest the chemicals you have applied on your plants. Also, there are some ornamental plants that are toxic in nature and can possibly harm your naughty cat.
Infections
Viral and other infections answer to majority of the causes of common cat health problems. Depending on the severity and nature of the infection, a particular infection can lead to complications that can compromise your cat's health. Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV), Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) and Feline Leukemia Virus are the known plagues of a cat's health. Thankfully, there are vaccinations and treatments that are available for these serious infections.
Parasites
Common cat parasites include fleas, worms, ticks and lice. Fleas and lice not only cause chronic itching and infections but also deliver parasites such as worm larvae inside your cat's body. The worms thriving in the intestines can cause anemia, weakness and weight loss. Proper grooming and the use of powders, pest sprays, lotions and shampoo can help remove these parasites. Ask a veterinarian for the most suitable product that can help you eliminate common parasites.
Caution
Loss of appetite, dull coat, more frequent grooming, excessive itching or constant scratching, not grooming after eating, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive drooling and display of unusual behavior are tell-tale signs of a sick cat. Familiarizing yourself with these symptoms of cat illness is important in ensuring the health of your feline friend. Upon noticing these symptoms, immediately contact your veterinarian.
Kathy is another cat lover and runs Cat Lover Products [http://www.catlover-products.com] where you can learn more about cat health [http://www.catlover-products.com/cat-illnesses/88/].
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/2433799
As is the case with any animal - and humans - some cats can be aggressive by nature and this is something that can cause a problem for their owners. Cat aggression can often stem from the way that the cat was reared as a kitten and the environment that it was brought up in. Luckily it is relatively easy to read the physical signs of an angry cat. It is important that cat aggression is dealt with quickly as otherwise you could find yourself having to give up your pet, particularly if you have other pets or children in the household. This is an outcome that can be avoided though, as long as you know what warning signs to look for in advance.
Some of the signs
If it is not dealt with swiftly, aggressive behaviour can become a regular habit with some cats. Some of the signs of an angry cat include:
- Flattened ears
- Flicking tail, which is up in the air
- Eyes wide open
- Pupils dilated
- Hissing, growling, or spitting
How to stop him
One thing you should never do is to physically smack or even raise your hand in a threatening gesture towards your cat, as this will simply make him fearful and anxious. It could make the problem worse by making the cat even more aggressive.
Whilst there are medications that are designed to calm cats and reduce aggression it is important to look into treatments that will work on changing the cat's behaviour at the root rather than just doping him up with medication. This could involve a change in surroundings, and you could even use treats to reward good behaviour.
Providing your cat with tools on which to take out their instinctive aggression can be helpful - this means some toys that they can bite and chew, a scratching post to claw at, and even something along the lines of a cat activity centre to help them to burn off some energy.
Get him checked
If your cat's aggressive behaviour continues you may want to send him to the vet for a quick check up. Remember, ill health can cause even humans to become grumpy, bad tempered, and aggressive, so there may be some underlying problems, especially if the aggressive behaviour has come on pretty suddenly. A vet will be able to tell the symptoms of any possible illnesses and will tell you the steps you can take to treat your furry friend.
Do you want to learn more about Cat Aggression? Go here to learn all about the different types of Cat Behaviour.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6024882
Every week, about 2,500 dogs and 3,000 cats go missing from their homes in the U.S. alone. Unfortunately, only 17% of dogs and 2% of cats are ever returned to their owners after getting lost. Losing a cat or a dog is a nightmare for a pet owner, as it can take weeks to find a pet, causing emotional stress for the whole family. Fortunately, the technology of today is advanced enough that you can plan ahead for this kind of problem with a pet GPS system.
The same GPS technology that your car uses to give you directions is used to ensure that your pets never get lost. There are a couple of options you have after making the decision to use GPS tracking on your dog or cat. You can choose to get a chip embedded in your pets skin, which requires a brief medical procedure. These chips last for your pet's lifetime and never need to be replaced. If you ever lose your pet, your veterinarian's office will be able to track him or her down.
Another option is to use a household GPS system for your pet. These systems come with a handheld device for you to track your pet with, and a small tag for your pet to wear. The tags for any system are designed to be comfortable and lightweight for your pet, and fit on the collar that he or she already wears. The handheld device will show you a map of where your pet is, or give you other visual and audio clues to tell you where he or she went.
Some systems use technology similar to your vet's office. If you're willing to pay a monthly fee, you can track your pet on your computer or your smart phone. A map of your neighborhood will appear online, and you have the power to set a safety zone for your pet. If your pet ever wanders too far from home, you will get an automatic text message to your phone and e-mail with driving directions leading you right to your pet.
Pet GPS systems are particularly important for hunting and farming dogs. These dogs cover a huge amount of land, and have very specific jobs to do. There are GPS systems specific to hunting dogs that can tell you where your dog is, where your dog has been, and whether your dog is resting or has spotted prey. This kind of information is vital to hunters, and can make the experience more productive and enjoyable.
Make sure that your pet has a collar with all of the correct information in case he or she ever does get lost. Pets without collars drastically reduce their chances of finding their families. With updated information on a collar, and one of the pet GPS systems, you can feel safe and secure knowing that you will always be able to find your pet.
Those who have outdoor cats can use a pet GPS to ensure that their cats make it back inside the house at the end of the day. Those who live in cities can make sure that their dogs haven't roamed far from the apartment. Whether you have house cats or hunting dogs, a GPS system can really protect your investment. With the growing statistics of missing dogs, using a GPS system is a great way to ensure safety and many more enjoyable years with your pets.
Protect your pet today at Pet GPS [http://www.petgpsreviews.com] Reviews. If you own a hunting dog, the best product on the market is the Garmin DC40 [http://www.petgpsreviews.com/garmin_dc_40.html].
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6972882
This article will look specially at your feelings around your cats death, whether they are normal and what emotions to expect.
Cats like every think else die and this time is no less painful than losing a human. So this brief article will focus on the top questions you may be asking yourself when your cat dies or your vet has to put them down.
It really hurts that my cat died - is this normal?
Yes it perfectly normal, however those who haven't had a pet to lose may find it a bit strange but that's because they haven't spent time caring for a cat or spending time snuggled up on the sofa watching TV with your cat settled on your knee purring away. Nor will they have spent time talking to a cat when they've been upset because sometimes cats are better to talk to than people. Expect it to hurt because it definitely will no matter whether you were blessed with your cats company for a few years or a large part of your life.
Will I feel a range of emotions?
Yes you will, you may feel guilty, especially if you've made the decision to put your cat down. You'll feel guilty if your cat was run over for letting them go out and play that day. What ever the circumstances chances are you'll feel guilty for not being able to stop your cat from dying.
You'll also feel anger, you may be angry at yourself for not being able to save your cat, angry at the vet, angry at any person who was involved in your cats death. If you're religious you may be angry at your own deity for not being able to prevent your cats death. This emotion is perfectly normal and part of the grieving process.
There will be times when you're in denial about your pets death, this will be worse if you've not actually seen the body or witnessed the vet administering the lethal injection. This is because if you've not seen the body then you will always have hope that it didn't happen or that it wasn't your cat it happened too.
It's also normal to feel depressed over your cats death, they were a huge part of your life, a part where you will have many cherished memories to look back on and no you no longer can make new memories. If you find yourself in a deep depression seek out medical help as this will affect all areas of your life, find online support groups, speak to others that have lost pets. Understanding and support go a long way in helping you to deal with depression.
You can find more information about dealing with the death of your cat over at Cat Party [http://www.cat-party.co.uk].
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5770457
Is your cat an angry cat? Keeping an angry cat in your home takes all of the fun out of cat ownership. Luckily, there are steps that you can take to help change your angry cat's behavior and make her a welcome member of the family.
When people complain about their cats it usually comes down to a one or two problems: aggression and failure to use the litter box. These are the two most common problems cited when owners are forced to give their cats to shelters. After dealing with the problem for a long time it just becomes too much for them and their family.
You can find a way to deal with your aggressive or angry cat. There are many levels of aggressive cat, ranging from kitty who nips at your toes when you don't expect it, to very frightening physical attacks.
It isn't uncommon to hear that someone is quietly petting their cat and suddenly the cat bites and runs away. Usually there is more shock than injury, and if you start watching your cat a little more closely, you should be able to pick up the signs that kitty is in an aggressive mood.
Angry Cat Warning Signs
My daughter's cat would only bite our legs and toes when we were sitting on the sofa. After a while my daughter saw that when kitty was approaching with her head and her tail low, she was in a biting mood. If her head and tail were held high she wanted to be petted.
By recognizing the warning signs we knew what her cat was up to, and saw what she was communicating to us.
How to Distract an Aggressive or Angry Cat
Sometimes a hand clap or other noise will be enough to distract an angry cat from attacking. Giving your cat a toy to play with is another method of distracting it. In extreme cases, you might need to keep a spray bottle of water handy and give a soft squirt at the cat's backside. Never squirt water at a cat's face.
Retraining an Angry Cat
It is possible to retrain your cat so it doesn't attack you. It will require time and patience on your part but it is worth it. My kitten Asha would dig her claws into my legs under the desk if she felt angry that she wasn't getting enough attention or she wanted something. She would come in behind me so the first I knew that she was angry about something was the claws in my thighs. It took practice for me to not yell at the sudden attack but I refused to pay attention to her until she just put paws, minus claws, on my legs. When that happened she got my immediate attention and was praised. I would then go see if she wanted a cuddle, a game or to tell me her biscuit bowl was empty.
Kathy Robinson has been writing articles on cat problems and the care of cats on her website http://www.CatProblemsResolved.com for a number of years. Why not download your free copy of The Joy of Owning and Caring for a Cat when you sign up for her free Cat Care Newsletter at http://www.catproblemsresolved.com/660
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6557283
You want to have a healthy and happy kitty. For this, you need to ensure that your beloved feline pet enjoys a proper diet. This can only be achieved with the right cat food. With so many options available, you will certainly benefit from some essential advice which will help you with making the best choice.
Get both wet and dry food for your pet.
In general, wet cat food is recommended since it is in the nature of felines to get water with what they eat rather than drink it separately. It is essential for the product to have moisture content of over 70%. Most canned products have moisture content of over 75% or 78%, but you have to check just to be on the safe side. It is best if canned products make up three quarters of the diet of your pet. In this way, it will have lower risk of urinary tract infections and diabetes. The remainder should be made up of dry food, which is good for the teeth. Of course, you have to ensure that your kitty has access to drinkable water as well.
Watch out with the terms on the label.
You will discover that not all products are labeled as "food". The ones which contain a different name such as "formula" or "dinner" usually contain a much lower concentration of the main ingredient. Similarly, if the label says that the product comes with a specific type of ingredient, then this ingredient is found in a smaller amount even though it is in a big print.
Ensure that the nutritional needs of the cat are met.
Protein should take up some 40% of the diet of the cat. Fat should take up around a third of it. That is why you have to ensure that the cat food which you get has a high concentration of protein and sufficient amount of fat. The lower the concentration of carbohydrates is the better. It must not exceed 50%. It is best if it comes from healthy sources such as rice and vegetables and not from corn meal. Felines require vitamins, minerals, omega-3 fatty acids, fiber and taurine which should come from their food as well.
Opt for a good source of protein.
Good sources of protein include chicken, fish and beef. You should watch out with the products which contain more than one source of protein. You need to check what amount of each type of meat is included. Often, manufacturers use proprietary amounts. Hence, if you want to ensure that your pet gets enough fish, you should consider going for a product which contains it as the main ingredient.
Consider food with natural preservatives.
The natural preservatives used in cat food are vitamin C and vitamin E. They are good for felines when they are in optimal concentration in the body. There is no solid scientific evidence that the artificial preservatives are dangerous, but the natural ingredients are always better.
If your feline pet has any medical condition, you should definitely consult your vet before buying any type of cat food.
Get the best advice on pet nutrition and care from the experts of Ultra Pet Food. Learn how to take perfect care of your beloved pet to make it even happier.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8733857
A lot of domesticated cats are overweight because of inactivity and the kinds of food they eat. Many indoor cats are fed dry cat food because it is very convenient for cat owners. Others feed their cat whatever food is on sale that week in order to save some money. These scenarios are understandable, however do not be surprised if this is you and your cat is overweight.
This is because dry food and cheaper brands are loaded with grains and wheat sources. Many manufacturers use these sources because they are cheaper to produce and the profits will be higher. Cats are not built to digest carbohydrates from these sources.
The best cat foods for overweight cats have a real meat source as the number one ingredient. This means the first listed ingredient is chicken, turkey, or beef. Many of the middle-tier and top-tier brands ensure that their food comes from mainly a meat source. These brands make sure that no-or minimal-grain sources are present in their foods.
Prescription Diets
When people have cats with overweight issues, it is common to take a trip to the veterinarian and get prescribed cat food with the goal of weight loss. A lot of the time the brand prescribed is Science Diet. This cat food is twice as expensive as normal cat food, because you are getting it prescribed to you.
What many cat owners do not know is that this special diet food is worse than something you can get at your local pet store. If you actually look closely at the ingredients listed, this vet food is full of the wheat and grain sources that I mentioned above. A lot of these foods do not have a meat source as the main source. Actually, a lot of these foods do not have a meat source period.
It is important to not get caught up in the hype of prescription diets. If you do your research and look at the ingredients in any cat food, you should be able to determine what cat food will be healthy enough for your cat to eat and lose weight from it.
In order to see weight loss in a cat, it is important to look at the ingredients. Once you find a brand that you trust, make sure you regulate the eating habits of your cat. If you maintain adequate eating levels of a healthy cat food, weight loss can certainly be achieved without having to spend a lot of money at the veterinarian.
If you wish to learn more about feline food and nutrition, please visit catfoodandnutrition.com for a variety of information regarding many topics.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8738558
Even with their busy schedules at work and at home, many cat owners would like to create their own homemade cat food recipes. Many reasons may be responsible why they do this. For some, they simply want to create food that they think is healthier than the usual cat food that can be found at the local pet store.
It must be kept in mind though that it is important to prepare the right homemade cat diet that contains all the proper vitamins and minerals to be able to give the cat its needed nutrition. Here are some important tips that a responsible cat owner must have in mind in creating its own cat food.
Tip Number 1 - It is important to know that there are some ingredients that must be avoided when creating a cat food at home. Some of the food stuffs that must never find its way into a cat's food recipe because of their known harmful effects on cats are the following: chocolates, onions, pork such as bacon, uncooked fish, uncooked eggs, milk and bones. Although a cat may find any of these foods to be tempting, they should never be given to the cats to keep it safe.
Tip Number 2 - Considering that a cat needs five times more protein than dogs do, NEVER give a cat dog food because it will never meet the cat's nutritional needs. For the same reason, a vegetarian diet will not work for a cat.
Tip Number 3 - Keeping in mind the danger that is associated between eating tuna and mercury poisoning, it is important to limit the amount of tuna that is feed to the cat. It is best to consult the proper guidelines that give information on how much lbs. of tuna can be given to a cat in a week. As they say, it is better safe than sorry.
Tip Number 4 - It is important to be on the lookout for ingredients that contain vitamin A especially if the cat is already receiving supplements of this vitamin. It is known that overdoses of this vitamin are very common. Therefore, it is important to know that liver which is high in vitamin A should be feed in moderation. And it should not be given to a cat if it is already receiving supplements of the vitamin.
Tip Number 5 - As stated in the second tip, it is important to look for ingredients that are high in protein. Meaning, it is important to give the cat a diet that is rich in meat but not in pork. This can be very easy to feed the cat because it is a carnivorous animal.
Tip Number 6 - Many vets highly recommend a cat diet that includes wet food. Also, they suggest that a cat is given food that is high in protein, high in fat, and low in carbohydrates. This type of food will help manage its blood sugar levels and keep it away from diabetes, a serious illness in animals.
Tip Number 7 - A homemade cat food recipe can actually combine dry, commercial cat food with meat, cooked eggs, milk that has no lactose, and some flavorings. This way, the cat is going to get used to the idea of eating a diet that is prepared at home.
Melinda Smith loves animals and is concerned that the commercial pet food conglomerates have convinced the majority of pet owners to feed their pets commercial pet food that is made up of very questionable ingredients, and cooked in a way that strips out practically all the nutrients that may have been there. Melinda believes that all cats deserve to be fed a homemade cat diet For some great homemade cat food recipes that will seriously make your cat's mouth water, click on either of the hyperlinks above.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/2261995
One of the big advantages of having a cat rather than a dog is that if you have to go away for any period of time you can leave your cat at home. This does not mean abandoning it completely but you can ask someone, a relative, friend or neighbour to look after your cat whilst you are away. The important thing when looking for a cat sitter you need to ensure it is someone who is reliable and that you can trust.
Ideally your cat sitter should be someone that both you and your cat know already. What you are looking for is someone who can turn up at your house at regular times to feed the cat and perhaps spend a little time fussing your pet. If a cat is left on its own for a long period of time it will get bored so if your sitter is prepared to spend some time petting and playing with it that is good. If you have more than one or two cats then you might consider trying to get someone who is prepared to "live in" whilst you are away.
No matter how well you brief your cat sitter it is a good idea to leave some written instructions. If you have more than one cat you should leave descriptions of the cats and their names and details of any special diets or medication. It is a good idea also to leave your contact phone number and that of your vets just in case there are any problems.
You need to make sure that the cat sitter knows where the cat food is kept and the amount and how often to feed the cat. It is also a good idea to leave a few treats that the sitter can give to the cat now and again. If your cat has any particular hiding places you should make the cat sitter aware of these because it is important that the sitter actually sees the cat when they visit to feed them.
Dependent upon how well you know your vet you may want to make arrangements with him that should your cat need treatment whilst you are away that you will settle the account on your return. Alternatively you may leave some money with the sitter for this eventuality.
In my experience a cat is happier when left in its own home during their owners absence. Catteries offer an excellent service and in some cases there is no alternative than this. However, wherever possible having a cat sitter is a much better option.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3537559
Cats do not adapt well to new people or places. Cats usually do not like being left behind when you leave for a trip. Even a well trained cat can get angry that you left, and express its anger in many ways, such as scratching furniture or failing to use its litter box as it was trained to do. If your cat is allowed to stay outside, it may express its anger by running off and taking up with another household. Cats have minds of their own. They seldom warm up to people instantly.
If you want your cat to stay at your home while you're gone, then it is important to choose a sitter that your cat knows. Start making friends with a neighbor or a cat lover who comes to your house from time to time and plays with the cat. If you call on a stranger to sit with your cat, you may be in for some unpleasant surprises, no matter how clean, devoted, and trustworthy the sitter may be. If you take your cat to a friend's house to stay while you are on your trip, the cat may slip out of your friend's house and run away. Cats do not like strange situations.
Cats like people they know and people who pet them and play with them. They like people who keep their litter boxes clean and who feed them fresh food and give them fresh water. Automatic feeders and automatic water machines do not fool cats. Cats want it fresh. One cat slapped all the food out of its automatic feeder just for the fun of watching the food go down in the feeder.
Whether you decide to have a cat sitter come to your home or whether you decide to board your cat somewhere else, it is important to get a copy of a "Cat Sitting Agreement" form which can be found on the internet. Use this for your contract. Cat sitting really is a contract, even with a friend. The form will guide you through the important matters to cover when you meet with a cat sitter. A quality form at a reasonable price is well worth the cost. Some kennels will have a form but it may not cover all of the matters important to you and would not be from the cat owner's point of view. The form you download from the internet can be used over and over again.
Meet with the sitter and discuss such matters as the maintenance of the litter box, the food, water, and medications for your cat, the cat's habits, what the sitter charges and what the sitter will do for those charges.
Then you and the sitter should fill out the form for the cat sitting contract. You can provide in the contract, such information as the cat's vet, and a number where you can be reached while you are gone. You may also include language that limits your liability in the event that the cat should attack the sitter. Give the sitter plenty time to consider the agreement, and even consult with an attorney concerning the agreement, if the sitter wishes. Your cat is worth handling its sitting arrangements in a businesslike, legal way.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5011874
Cats are naturally independent and adventurous creatures so they should be allowed to go outdoors from time to time. If you have a feline at home, you should install pet doors in strategic places in the house to allow your pet to go outdoors every now and then. After installing doors in your home, train your cat to use these doors to go outside and then come back inside the house.
Teaching your feline friend how to use these doors can be a bit challenging. Some cats are rather reluctant to use the doors for various reasons. To help your precious get comfortable with the idea of using cat doors, here are some tips for you.
Show Your Cat How To Use The Door
After installing cat doors in your home, show your pet where these doors are located. To do this, place the animal in front of the door and open the flap to show your cat that the door leads to the lawn outside. Your pet may not jump at the opportunity to use the door immediately so you should be patient. If your kitty refuses to go through the door, gently push your cat through it. You may also use treats to lure your moggy into using the cat doors.
It may take a while before your pet gets used to the idea of using the pet doors instead of the kitchen door to get out. In fact, it may take a while before your cat stops pestering you to open the kitchen door and let him out. To train your feline to use the pet doors in the house, do not open the kitchen door to let him out. Instead of opening the kitchen door, pick up your animal and bring it to the door, open the flap and gently push your friend outside. Repeat this process until your precious gets the idea that it can go out of the house without your help.
Safety Precautions
Before you let you let your cat out of the house, make sure that it is wearing its collar. A lot of owners who lost their cats were never able to retrieve their pets simply because their pets were not wearing collars.
To make sure that your cat is able to get inside the house with ease, see to it that the cat doors are free from obstructions. Do not put any heavy objects near cat doors and if you have kids in the house, tell your kids to keep their toys away from the doors.
Because there are several cat doors to select from, it can be difficult to know which one is right for your pet. A simple rule is to first make sure you get the right size of pet door - either small, medium, or large. Then reduce your search of all the cat doors by choosing the one that would best suit your home.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4092601
If you are a cat owner, you have no doubt had the debate with yourself as to whether your cat should be an indoor or an outdoor animal. On the one hand your cat will be safe and you will always know where he is but on the other hand he will probably get bored and a bored cat is a destructive cat. However, there are a range of outdoor cat cages on the market so you can have the best of both worlds.
Cats are, by nature, hunting creatures and they were never bred to stay indoors however, you will know how cats can wander and you have probably had days of worry, only to see your cat casually stroll in the door without a care in the world.
Outdoor cat cages come in a range of shapes and sizes from the complete garden surround to something little bigger than a carrying case but obviously, from the cat's point of view, bigger is better and very small is pointless; he might as well stay inside.
Probably the best product is a large cat enclosure which gives the illusion of giving the cat the run of the whole garden or better still, the version which attaches to the top of an existing fence which really does give the cat the whole garden as his domain but he won't be able to escape unless he's a relative of Houdini.
Other products such as wire playpens and mesh tents and runs are alternative outdoor cat cages and are more portable while still giving the cat plenty of room to move around and an opportunity for fresh air and sunshine. Do make sure that the cat has plenty of toys to keep boredom at bay and somewhere high to sit and observe the world.
Don't forget that kitty will still need food and water while in his outside accommodation and if the weather is hot, some shade too.
If the cat is to spend long periods of time in his garden home, you should provide a scratching post as well or he'll start using the structure of the cage itself to keep his claws trimmed.
Outdoor cat cages are great for the peace of mind of owners and are better for the cat than being cooped up inside all the time, but don't forget that the cat would rather be out and about mousing.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6916423
Tapeworms and Stomach worms are internal parasites that feed off your cat in order for them to live and multiply. There are some creatures that live inside your cat without causing harm. However, some parasites, including tapeworms and stomach worms can cause adverse reactions in your cat.
Tapeworms
If you see a worm or something you aren't sure about, put it in a baggie along with a piece of moist paper towel and take it to your vet. Little short white worms around 1/2 inch or 1cm long or less are probably tapeworm segments. The adult tapeworm lives in the small intestine with its head embedded in the mucosa which is moist tissue that lines some organs and body cavities. The body is comprised of a small head connected to a series of segments that are filled with eggs. The older segments of tapeworm containing eggs are shed and attach themselves to the fur around the anus of your cat. They often look like grains of rice.
Tapeworms are usually passed by fleas. Flea larvae eat the secreted eggs. As the flea moves through its life cycle, the eggs reach their infective stage as the flea reaches adulthood. Cats can then inadvertently swallow the flea during grooming which will in turn leads to infection. Fleas and rodents become infected by eating the tapeworm eggs that are in the environment.
Finding tapeworm segments can be quite worrying to cat owners; tapeworm infections only rarely cause significant disease in cats. As eggs are passed within the segments instead of on their own, microscopic examination of faecal samples may not always reveal the presence of tapeworms. It may be necessary for more than one stool to be examined to test for tapeworm.
These days most medications are very successful in treating tapeworm infections. However, re-infection is fairly common. I would suggest a second vaccination two weeks after the first one to control the larvae. Managing or eliminating flea and rodent populations will go a long way towards reducing the risk of tapeworm infection in cats.
Stomach Worms
The main species that inhabit the stomach of your cat are Ollanulus tricuspis and Physaloptera. These are not as common in the United States as other worms with Physaloptera more rare than Ollanulus tricuspis. They are more common in outdoor cats and those housed in multiple-cat facilities. Cats become infected with Ollanulus tricuspis after consuming vomit that contains the parasite. Symptoms include chronic vomiting along with loss of appetite. Due to these, you will see dramatic weight loss and even malnutrition. Diagnosis of Ollanulus can be difficult as it is necessary for the vet to find the larvae in the cat's vomit.
With Physaloptera infections, adult female worms attach to the stomach lining and pass eggs which are then ingested by an appropriate intermediate host, often a cockroach or cricket. The parasite will develop and will then infect other animals such as rodents when they eat the infected insect. Your cat becomes infected when he eats the affected rodent or other animal. Cats infected with Physaloptera may experience similar symptoms to an Ollanulus tricuspis infection such as vomiting and loss of appetite. Diagnosis relies upon microscopic detection of parasite eggs in the stool, or by seeing the parasite in the vomit. See your vet regarding diagnosis and treatment. Wherever possible, keep the rodent population down to prevent the spread of these stomach worms.
Kathy Robinson has been writing articles on cat problems and the care of cats on her website http://www.CatProblemsResolved.com for a number of years. Why not download your free copy of The Joy of Owning and Caring for a Cat when you sign up for her free Cat Care Newsletter at http://www.catproblemsresolved.com/660
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4411022
Cats are such majestic and proud creatures, aren't they? Housecats definitely act like their name as it may seem as if they own the house! However, they're also often playful and affectionate companions. When you're considering getting a cat, you've got to take everything into account. Therefore you may be asking an important question: how do cats age?
Just like in humans, there are several stages in a cat's lifespan as it grows and matures. Finding the right cat for you often means deciding what age you'll get your cat at. A young kitten can be a joy but a big responsibility, while an older cat can be less clingy and playful but also more self-sufficient.
From birth to about seven months of age, a cat is called a kitten. Newborn kittens cannot yet walk, but as they feed and grow they become heavier and stronger by the day. Within three or four weeks, kittens are already able to stand. Mother cats need to wean their kittens' new teeth so they can begin to eat solid foods. It takes only a few more weeks for kittens to begin jumping and playing around.
Seeking an answer to the question "how do cats age?" will get a rapid answer as you see your feline pet getting bigger before your eyes. As your cat grows, within its first year it's important to start taking it to the vet to get it properly vaccinated against diseases. With love and care, your kitten will grow up into a full, proud, and playful cat.
If you're wondering about cats aging you're likely already familiar with what a full grown cat is like. A cat's prime years are debated but often said to be from one to three years old all the way up to about eight. During this time, a cat hones its hunting instinct through play and grows confident in its surroundings.
A cat that has not been neutered or spayed, which should be done at an early age, will begin seeking mates. However if your cat is kept alone without other cats, it may not show much of the mating instinct. Cats are usually perfectly accepting to a solitary lifestyle with humans.
A cat past seven or eight years is known as a mature or senior cat. Though your cat may have slowed down from kitten hood to adulthood, senior cats get noticeably less active and feebler as years go down.
This is almost as critical a period for vets as a cat's early years, as older cats run into many medical complications.
The question "how do cats age?" is a tough one to answer. It all boils down to your particular cat and how well you take care of him or her. If you give your cat all the attention it needs, you'll have a pet that age like fine wine: beautiful, robust, and full of enjoyment. Your cat deserves to be pampered and loved so it can get old with a wonderful human friend as you get older with a loving feline pal.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6015474
CAT AGE COMPARISON
Do you feel like correcting this spraying problem is a losing battle? Do you wish you had a bird, dog, or ferret? After going on the internet and trying suggestions do you still have a cat spraying in the house? Don't feel alone because any of us who had a feline spraying has said yes to the above questions. There is no easy or quick remedy for this problem.
If the cat has a physiological (organic) problem then the veterinarian can usually take care of this and you are one of the lucky few. The rest of us are dealing with psychological issues which are more complex and difficult to fix. Usually the organic issues are corrected by treating the urinary infections with antibiotics or performing sterilization to stop the problem. On rare occasion, (and I own one), the cat will continue to spray after being fixed.
Here is a list of tips that will help in dealing with a cat that is having psychological problems.
· Spend at least a half hour a day playing, massaging, combing, and petting your cat. If your cat is spraying personal items then it is likely upset with you about something. I like to split up the contact to several times a day but do what you can to have some quality time with your cat.
· If the cat is fixed and is marking randomly on walls, doors, speakers and furniture then it is likely upset about others things. Such as other pets in the house, litter box maintenance, change in routine, change in furniture, changes in access to rooms, and even issues with having company for a week or two. Cats are strange about change, they do not embrace change, and will fight it tooth and claw.
· If the cat is marking windows, glass doors, or screen doors this is likely due to another animal on the property. This is occurs regularly with indoor cats who get excited about other animals potentially invading their territory. An indoor/outdoor cat will likely put up a confrontation first and if they lose, this could create anxiety and they start spraying doors and windows.
· If the cat looks like it is trying to pee in the litter box but nothing happens and shortly later you find a puddle elsewhere this is an organic problem and the veterinarian needs to exam your cat.
Here is a list of tips you need to get started on when you first notice the cat is spraying inside the house.
· Purchase a strong (100 watt or more) portable black light. Ultraviolet light will make urine and most other organic things fluoresce and be visible. The house should be dark for the black light to work. Since the lights are off use coins or painters tape to mark the locations. Go everywhere and in every room including above cabinets and counters and accessible entertainment centers. Don't forget the garage if your cat has access there.
· Pre-rinse all locations with water and a rag. Apply 50/50 water and white vinegar in a spray bottle, (you can use this for pre-rinse as well and wash twice). After drying off you can spray with enzyme active washes such as "Natures Miracle". Try the vinegar first and the enzymes as a last resort. Carpet should be cleaned with the vinegar and add baking soda last to the damp area and let air dry before vacuuming.
The goal is to have a clean house free of cat urine because cats tend to spray areas that are previously marked when the scent starts to fade. So getting your house in clean order is a start.
· This tip I receive the most complaints and arguments about because so far you have cleaned the house. The litter box duty has improved and you are spending quality time with your cat but you still have to show authority to get a behavior change. If kitty is still spraying then you must catch it "in the act" of spraying. This means spending a weekend or so following a cat which is not the most exciting or productive thing to do, but necessary to start a change in behavior. You need to catch the cat in the act of spraying. I like to clap very loud and use a water spray bottle as effective means to change their behavior.
Letting your cat know that you are not pleased with their spraying is a must. What you should be careful of is no physical violence or extreme yelling. The last thing you want to do is create a condition where the cat now has anxiety about you. If possible when you spray the cat with water do quickly hide the bottle so it is not certain that you did it. Often a loud clap works because the cat is not sure what makes that noise.
Most people would abandon or have their cat put down because of emotional spraying. This is not a simple problem to take care of and you need to be very strong and determined to change your cat's behavior. To those brave souls who are willing to take up the challenge I commend you. Most folks don't bother.
I have been a pet owner all of my life and for the last thirty years my wife and I have raised over a dozen cats. My website http://tipsaboutcats.com is your information source for "all about cats" their disposition and health. The blogs cover the basics of making your own cat toys and condos. The website also has many links, books and cat products in the blogs and the store. I also offer a condensed version of the blog posts in a mini e-book that can be found on the offer page at http://tipsaboutcats.com/offer/. There are two expert interviews in the blog pages that are must reads because they will answer most of your questions and concerns about cat health and diet that is best for your cat. Also please visit me on Facebook and Twitter.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6508544
