Surviving the Puppy Years

Puppies! They are cute, adorable, innocent, playful, energetic, full of beans and often holy terrors!!!

As a brand new puppy owner, I've decided to document my journey and progress with my puppy in a series of articles.

All puppy owners have challenges and unique situations. My current situation includes my new puppy of seven months old. She is a Samoyed/Husky mix. I also have an 11 year male Belgian Shepherd mix and a 14 year old female German Shepherd/Collie mix. And just to add that much more of a challenge, I also have two senior cats, both over 15 years old. So you can imagine with all of us old ones, this young puppy has been an absolute shock! I knew  puppies have a lot of energy. But knowing that and actually experiencing it are two very different things.

I'm constantly being reminded that I don't have as much patience as I thought I had. And I don't like to admit it, but I've questioned my sanity a few times to bring a puppy into a house with two other dogs and cats.

But besides the obvious challenges of a multi dog household, there are advantages to having older dogs around. Their corrections are much better timed than my own, and just the right intensity to stop a puppy in their tracks. And their calm dispositions do have a positive effect on her.

Whenever my puppy does something that my older dogs would never do, I have to remind myself "she's a puppy". I must think that about 20 times a day. It's so hard to remember that everything is new to a puppy and they are curious, have endless energy and want to play all the time.

So far the absolutely most important lesson I've learned is that getting frustrated makes everything worse! But why is keeping your cool so difficult sometimes? How can a little tiny puppy push your buttons to the point of sheer anger? It's happened to me more times than I care to say, but I do know that if I just keep at it and remind myself that I am in control, it will get better. I won't give up.

One lifesaver we have discovered is our local dog park. It boats acres and acres of wooded trails and open areas. Whenever we go we always see many dogs of all ages and sizes. The dog park serves many purposes. It's absolutely wonderful for draining your puppy's energy; it provides your puppy with much need socialization skills, with both dogs and humans. And allows your puppy to run and play.

Another important lesson I've learned is that time outs are not just for children. My goal is to have a calm household. I realize puppies have a lot of energy and that draining that is essential. And in return I expect good calm behaviour. When my puppy gets too excited she  goes berserk. I've discovered that tethering her on a leash in the house forces her to calm down. Some people may think that's cruel but I disagree. I am simply disagreeing with the behaviour and controlling it. Once she calms down, I praise her and remove the leash. If she stays settled down, she can be free with the rest of us.

Keep in mind; it's your house and your rules. You are providing your puppy with food, water, shelter, health care, exercise, socialization, toys, love and countless other things. You have the right to expect certain behaviour in return.

• Set rules and be consistent
• Socialize with dogs and people as much as possible
• Exercise, exercise, exercise
• Give your puppy affection only when she calm

Crate training has been very helpful. At night and when we are out of the house, we don't have to worry that our puppy is messing things, chewing things or disrupting the other animals (other than having to listen to her whining). It's an easy way to potty train as dogs don't usually mess in their crate so the minute she comes out, she goes outside. If/when your puppy cries in the crate, be strong and don't give in. If you do you will be teaching them that making noise works and that is the last thing you want. At all costs ignore the behaviour. If you have just walked your puppy and she has relieved herself, she is fine. When you do let her out, make sure she is calm. And never ever put her in the crate as a punishment. Her crate should be a place to sleep and be associated with good things like feeling calm or getting her Kong or a treat.

I highly recommend taking some sort of puppy training class. Even if you have a lot of knowledge about dogs and already know how to train them, it's still a great opportunity for all of you. Your puppy will meet other puppies and  new people, and you will undoubtedly discover something you didn't know or didn't think of. And it's never a bad thing to explore different training methods. Not all dogs respond to the same to training so trying new things can be very beneficial.

If you are also experiencing the joys and challenges of having a puppy, remember that as difficult as it may be at times, all the hard work will pay off and you will have a loyal companion for life.

Bliss Paws Dog Massage

We already know how beneficial massage can be for humans. But did you know your dog can also benefit greatly from massage?

Massage benefits all dogs, from young to old and whatever your dog's lifestyle or activity level. It promotes relaxation, stimulates blood circulation, relieves stress and anxiety, can strengthen immunity, aids in digestion, improves joint flexibility and just feels good!

Dog massage requires extensive knowledge of a canine's anatomy and a love and passion for dogs. At Bliss Paws, you can rest assured that your furry friend is in good hands that are certified in both Canine Massage Therapy and Animal First Aid.

If you live in the Los Angeles to Orange County area, contact Bliss Paws and they will come to your location and give your dog one of the different massages types. The “Signature Service” includes all of the following:

• Swedish
• TTouch
• Acupressure
• Stretching
• Myofascial Release

If you choose the “Signature Service”, you can also add any of the following additional services:

• Cold Stone Massage
• Yoga Ball Exercise
• Aromatherapy Paw Care
• Aromatherapy

Visit the website for more information about each massage type.

Gift certificates are also available and a great gift idea.

Bliss Paws Dog Massage

Your Aging Dog

Aging is inevitable for us and our dogs. And it can be sad to watch your once strong and energetic dog struggle to get up the stairs and keep up on your walks.

Usually though, as the body ages, your dog's spirit is still there.



Behaviour

You will notice your dog sleeping more and more as she ages. And she may not spring out of bed like she used to in the morning or when you get home.

And she may seek more private places in the house instead of being near you all the time. When my senior dog started doing this I found it the hardest thing to except. For the entire time she's lived with me, she's been my shadow. Her retreating to the bathroom after dinner was the most significant sign to me that she's nearing the last stage of her life. Like humans, she has her good days and her bad days. Days where I'm sure we'll be parting soon and then days after that make me wonder how I ever thought that. The point is to cherish every minute you have with your dog. At this time of her life, she deserves your patience and understanding more than ever.

Health

Your senior dog will slow down and may show signs of hip problems or arthritis. Always consult your vet for advice, options and treatments for your senior.

Massage is very beneficial throughout your dog's life but especially as she ages. It's bonding time, relaxing and feels good on those achy bones and muscles. And it's a good time to check for lumps which are very common in older dogs.

Senses

Your dog's sense of hearing and sight will also dissipate as she ages. This can affect her behaviour if she is startled. Be careful to not suddenly wake her from sleep or sneak up behind her.

Diet

When your senior starts walking less, don't forget to adjust the amount of food you give her. If you aren't sure what amount is correct, the best way solution is to weigh her weekly and adjust it accordingly.

As many older dogs tend to have hip and joint issues, you might want to consider adding a glucosamine supplement to your senior's diet.

Exercise

Shorter more frequent walks, even if only walking around your backyard can be beneficial for your senior dog.

Senior dogs can still be very playful so don't forget to initiate play with them. Just adjust to their needs, throw the ball a shorter distance and do activities that won't push them too much.

Enjoy this time and try not to think about it as nearing the end of your dog's life. Your dog isn't thinking that way. She's just slowing down and enjoying her retirement. Cherish the time you've had and will continue to have with her.

Cat Peeing Outside of Litter Box

Is your cat peeping outside the litter box? Is your bed starting to really stink? Well there are some basic things you can do right now to help your cat start using the litter box again.

cat tree

Cats can stop using the litter box for any number of reasons. Some of these could be stress, medical, or behavioral. Some cats get stressed out when new cats or people are brought into the house. Some cats can even get stressed out when there are changes in the household routine. Can you identify any of these as possible causes as to why your cat has started peeing outside the litter box?

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Some cats pee outside the litter box to mark their territory. Once a cat has urinated somewhere it can be very hard to get the scent out of the carpet or bedding. You need to really clean that area good because cats have a great sense of smell and if there is any scent left of their urine they are likely to urinate there again.

Medical problems may be another reason why some cats pee outside the litter box. Some cats can have urinary tract infections or feline lower urinary tract disease. Both of these conditions can be very irritating to the cat and cause them to not use the litter box. If you suspect your cat has one of these conditions you need to seek veterinary help immediately.

Other causes of peeing outside the litter box could be due to hormonal or metabolic conditions. Older cats can get a condition called hyperthyroidism and this can lead them to urinate outside the litter box.

As you can see there are many reasons why a cat would start peeing outside the litter box. It is always best to have a good physical exam done on your cat by a veterinary to rule out medical causes before focusing on behavioral causes of urinating outside the litter box.

Cat Peeing Outside of Litter Box

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Solutions to Cat Behavior Problems

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The Cat Flea Life Cycle

The flea is one of the most common parasites to infect dogs and cats. This can lead to excessive itching, scratching and even blood loss. Since fleas feed on blood, a severe infection can leave your pet anemic. Also in some cases, pets can develop allergies to flea saliva which results in a severe dermatitis.

cat litter

The adult flea is only about 2.5 mm in length and is usually dark brown, but can be seen by the naked human eye. They don't have wings but they can jump a great distance.

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In order to effectively control fleas in your house you should understand a little bit about their life cycle. The adult flea can live up to 115 days on the dog, but only a few days off of the dog because they need to constantly feed.

Normally after the fleas take in a blood meal they will mate on the skin of the dog and then the female will lay the eggs within 48 hours.

Females can produce up to 2000 eggs in a four month life cycle. As the female lays the eggs they fall off the dog and usually onto the furniture or carpet.

It takes about 10 days for the eggs to hatch into larvae form. The larvae feed on debris found on the carpet. The larvae then go into a pupal stage that can last anywhere from a few days to a few months.

How fast fleas mature through the life cycle depends greatly on temperature and humidity conditions. If these temperatures are optimal for fleas the flea life cycle can be very quick.

After they emerge from the pupil stage they have only two weeks to find a host before they die.

Remember, at any time only 1% of the population is composed of adults. 99% of the time they are in other stages like egg, larval, or pupal stages, and are not visible to the human eye.

The Cat Flea Life Cycle

Mark loves to write articles about pets and has several websites dealing with pets. One of them is about how to shop for a small dog bark collar. One of the more popular kinds is a Multivet citronella bark collar.

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Declawing Pet Insurance

Bringing home a new pet is always a stressful time - both for the owner and the animal. A new addition to the family will feel lost, bewildered, and wondering where that big furry milk-machine disappeared to.

As a new owner, you may worry that your pet won't settle into family life, or perhaps you already have other animals and are concerned how they will react to the intruder. You also have the added worry of buying suitable food and bedding, deciding where the toilet will be, how your pet will be exercised - more of a problem for dogs than cats - and a myriad other matters to resolve.

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One issue that doesn't immediately leap out at you is that of insurance. Only 15% of dog owners and 7% of cat owners have their pets insured. There is no good reason for this. Pet insurance is relatively cheap compared to the costly vet bill you could face if you don't get your animal insured.

Claiming on pet insurance mirrors the way human beings use the NHS. For the first seven or eight years, most insurers will have relatively minor claims experience from pet owners. Usually, this changes in the next few years.

So just because you have a lovely two-year-old dog that never seems to get ill, don't kid yourself: in another seven or eight years you'll be spending hours at a time at the vet's - and potentially paying through the nose.

And taking a pet to see a vet can be as costly as having an operation yourself:

o A hip replacement for a dog can cost up to £3,000

o Care for a cat badly hurt in a car accident can cost £1,500 or more

o Bowel surgery and subsequent hospital care for a dog that has eaten a sharp object can cost up to £2,500

o If your dog falls down a rabbit hole while out on a walk and fractures her leg, for example, treatments can be as high as £1,500.

o And if your pet develops any on-going health problems, such as diabetes or cancer, treatment costs can run into thousands.

Insurance can help out greatly with this. You will be required to pay an excess, the amount of which you can normally set yourself - the standard minimum is £50 - and your insurer will pay out costs over and above that.

Lifetime cover is best for pets like dogs, cats and reptiles, but check your policy. Some will only cover your pet for conditions developed after the policy was taken out. Others will only cover a particular illness for up to a year, then exclude it from the policy once that year is up.

Some policies have an option to pay up to a fixed amount, such as £4,000, per year which will cover all conditions. However, if your diabetic cat suddenly develops arthritis, the upper limit on your policy may not cover all your new costs. An alternative is to have a fixed cost per condition, but this is only done on an annual basis - no good for lifetime conditions.

By far the best type of pet insurance is lifetime cover with a fixed amount per condition, per year. This will guarantee your pet is insured no matter what illness they contract or how long-term the treatment is.

Once you've settled on the type of cover, there are a few more things to bear in mind:

Some companies will offer a multi-pet discount for all the animals in your household
If you are a dog owner, consider public liability cover - if your dog attacks someone the insurance will cover any compensation or medical bills.
Decide how you want to pay for your insurance. A one-off annual fee can be handy for getting the cost out of the way, but you may find it easier to pay monthly - ask about interest-free direct debits.
Check how much your premium will increase if you make a claim. It's no good having all-singing, all-dancing pet insurance if you're too scared to claim on it!

Finally, if you've decided on lifetime cover, make sure it does mean lifetime. Dogs and cats can live as long as 15 to 20 years, so ensure your 'lifetime cover' isn't just for 10 years.

Declawing Pet Insurance

J Tillotson is an author based in the uk. Her specialist subjects are energy and efficiency, and insurance.

CAT DECLAWING COST

What Do You Do With Homeless Cats?

Most cats adopt YOU, not the other way around. They very craftily sneak into your life by appearing on your doorstep with a pitiful look in their eye, which you assume to be 'hunger'. Being the kind person you are, you offer some tuna to the hungry kitty. That is, unless you are already feeding a cat or cats. In which case, you offer cat food. The timid cat hungrily accepts your offer. You feel better for having fed a helpless animal. You think you may never see the poor creature again, and...it was so cute!

If you are a seasoned 'cat person', you know the 'cute' little cat will be back tomorrow. At this point, you hope the 'cute' little cat won't bring a litter of kittens or, Heaven forbid, be pregnant. You might as well go to the grocery store and buy cat food, you've been tagged.

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Dry cat food is easier and less messy for leaving outside. Don't forget to also leave a water bowl. You have now agreed to adoption. The law, in some cities or states, says "if you feed a feral cat, you are then responsible for its care and its actions" (such as pooping in your neighbor's flower bed). Most of us don't take that seriously enough to worry about it. The biggest problem most of us experience is that if you feed one feral cat, you may find you are feeding three or six or more.

If you decide to keep the cat and claim it as yours, you need to gain its trust in order to transport it to the veterinarian for a checkup and necessary vaccinations. Then, arrange for spaying or neutering. Buy it a cat-safe breakaway collar that won't get caught on a fence to strangle it. Put at least a name tag on the collar, with your telephone number. If you don't want to pay for a name tag, put the rabies tag on the collar, which has the veterinarians telephone number. The vet can identify your cat by the vaccination number. Now, you are a cat parent and this precious creature has a good home.

If you decide not to take responsibility for the cat, this leads to more serious questions. Can you afford to feed a neighborhood full of feral cats? Can you afford to have them spayed or neutered to keep a colony from growing? Can you afford to, at the very least, give them rabies shots? It really does become your responsibility to keep from adding to the problem.

The best solution I have seen is the TSNR (Trap/Spay/Neuter/Release) programs adopted by some Humane Societies, SPCA's and even some city governments. The program usually loans you a trap, picks the cat up after you trap it, takes it to their veterinarian for spaying or neutering and then returns it to your neighborhood. Then, you can continue to feed the cat without contributing to a growing colony of feral cats. It does, of course, require time to take care of a large colony but it can and is being done all over the country.

If you have a number of stray cats in your neighborhood, and would like to help, please contact your city or county humane society, SPCA or animal control to see if they offer the program.

What Do You Do With Homeless Cats?

The author, Pat Lemmons is a 66 year old woman who has owned cats for 10 years, knows cats and operates a retail web site for cat products. http://www.kittystoreonline.com The product prices are discounted for maximum savings. The site features the latest technological products such as unique automatic litter boxes, the best quality cat & kitty beds, pet doors, litter box furniture covers, pet carriers, crates and containment, unique artist t-shirts, sweatshirts & nightshirts, and a large selection of kitty condos, trees, scratching posts, cat toys and treats. Nothing but the best for your pampered feline, including premium quality cat furniture and outdoor enclosures to keep them safe.

A portion of every sale is donated to the Gulf Coast Humane Society in Corpus Christi, TX and to the SPCA San Pat County in Aransas Pass, TX. These organizations are the rescuer of homeless animals and make them available for aoption to good, safe homes. They perform a magnanimous service to our communities.

CAT DECLAWING COST

What Should I Feed My Diabetic Cat?

Diet is the foundation of strength for all cats, but in particular, the diabetic kitten. There are so many pages of instructions and guidance in print in all places about the proper nutrients for diabetic felines. A lot of the information is, however, not correct. The majority of the knowledge correlated to cat food is specified by the cat food corporations chatting about their own cat food brands and so many times this knowledge is many years old and absent of date. The majority of the time you cannot depend on the cat food corporations for any knowledge for the reason that their most important priority is their bottom line.

Immense pet food corporations lean to cheat the cat owner while giving out essentials with reference to their cat food. A lot of the time while a cat food corporation gives out their charts it really has discrete charts. If their knowledge is old and they produce the outdated knowledge out in the present-day, even the tinyest differences can wound your feline, especially your kitten with cat diabetes. The charts that the cat food corporations produce have very incomplete knowledge for the reason that they don't really encompass to tell you the actual amount that their cat food has of a specific ingredient, like corporations that create food for people do. The proper content ingrediants that these cat food corporations allot you are not accurate.

CAT DECLAWING

For the reason that of the actuality that these cat food corporations give away out misleading knowledge regarding their cat brands, you will have to take into consideration specific criteria as soon as determining what kind of foods to give your diabetic feline, and even your strong feline.

Firstly, the most significant decision that a feline possessor can generate is to take into consideration what felines are, carnivores and that means they gorge a diet full of meat/protein, the catkins diet. That means keep away from whatever thing to do with dry feline food. Carnivores don't consume processed, superior carbohydrate foods, even if the sizeable corporations that are advertising these dry food cat diabetic diets such as purina dm, innova, and hills m/d. These corporations could say on their packaging to help felines with cat diabetes, but they don't. Dry kitten food is the most awful thing to allot to your kitten that needs to control their heaviness, glucose levels, and healthiness. Dry kitten food must additionally not be given to strong felines, period.

Secondly, the feline foods that you provide your cat ought to be moist canned kitten food. There ought to be no kinds of vegetables, fruits, or cereals in your cat's food. Felines are carnivores and not people and they ought to stick to what carnivores swallow, protein, which is meat. When you see these vegetables and fruits in your feline food's charts they are in attendance really for the cat possessor.

It is almost a trick, the cat possessor looks at the strong fruits and vegetables and right away makes the judgment that the charts are stuffed of strong foods and therefore, ought to be strong for their felines. But, the cat owners don't realize that these foods are what cause fitness issues in their strong kitten, let alone their diabetic feline. They are packed of carbohydrates and sugar. Keep away from foods that allow these charts, they are great for people but not for your carnivore kitten.

third, if you obtain canned feline food make definite that there is protein like beef, chicken, and turkey and heaps of gravy. Kitten canned foods maintain much more h2o ratio then dry kitten food. Dry kitten food in fact causes your kitten to grow to be thirsty. Make definite to encompass adequate of h2o if you still assign your feline dry food. There are useful canned brands and so many atypical can kitten food that is all into presentation and not substance.

If you can, you ought to assign your felines fresh uncooked a little cooked meats. Raw protein can be really helpful for your diabetic kitten, but all felines ought to encompass at least some. This is generally because even the paramount canned feline food can bear carbohydrates in it. But largely of all make definite to on no account give your diabetic kitten dry kitten food.

What Should I Feed My Diabetic Cat?

If you found this article helpful and want more information, please go to http://catkinsdiet.com. Brian Fleming has created the website http://catkinsdiet.com to help cat owners cope with cats that have developed feline diabetes, while teaching others how to properly feed their cats to avoid any health issues in the future.

CAT DECLAWING

Cat Behavior Problems? Try Finding an Animal Behaviorist

If you feel that you need to employ the service of an animal behaviorist, discuss the issue with your veterinarian. She can most likely recommend a trained professional who specializes in cats.

Behaviorist are experts in animal behavior and motivation and will be able to give you advice on how to solve your pet's problem. Make an appointment to talk with the behaviorist and explain your cat's behavior issues, the symptoms, and any methods that you have used to try to solve the problem on your own.

CAT DECLAWING

Ask about her experience in treating your cat's problem. Be sure to get references, find out how many treatment sessions your cat may need, and ask what follow up training, if any, you will have to do on your own at home. Many behaviorists make house calls and may want to observe the cat in his natural surroundings to better understand the unwanted behavior.

An older cat who engages in an unwanted behavior will need extra time and patience to correct the problem. The longer the bad habit exists, the longer it takes to break. If he has a house soiling problem, consult a veterinarian and schedule a physical.

Many older cats become incontinent as they age and cannot control where they eliminate, or they have other problems using the litter box.

If the habit is deeply ingrained, he may need to see a behavior therapist and have the unwanted behavior corrected through specific training techniques. Depending on the problem and the age and health of the cat, it may be easier to make certain areas of the house off limits.

Boredom is a common cause of misbehavior. So, having plenty of toys around to amuse your cat will keep him out of trouble. Understanding why your cat is misbehaving and getting to the root of the problem is the best way to correct unwanted behaviors.

Cat Behavior Problems? Try Finding an Animal Behaviorist

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CAT DECLAWING

Cat Distemper Symptoms

If you are a pet lover and treat your cat like your child, you need to be wary of cat distemper symptoms and take immediate action, if you see any. Known as cat distemper or Feline Panleukopenia, this disease is a nightmare for millions of cat lovers around the globe. It affects all animals belonging to the cat family, including endangered species of big cats.

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However, dog lovers need not worry because this disease does not spread to man's best friend. It is quite a rampant infection, especially in cities and it spreads from cat to cat through contact with an infected animal. Nevertheless, it is not necessary that keeping a cat away from direct contact with an infected animal will do the trick.

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The disease can also be contaminated through the infected animal's secretions or any article that has been previously contaminated through contact with the infected cat. Human beings are safe from Feline Distemper, but they also act as carriers of the infection.

If your hands or clothes are contaminated with secretions of the infected animal, another cat coming near you will be exposed to the disease and get infected. Fleas are also carriers of this infection. If you notice cat distemper symptoms in your dear pet, you can be rest assured that the infection has found its way into your cat's body through one of the sources mentioned above.

Since kittens do not have a highly developed immune system, they are at the receiving end of cat distemper symptoms. Thus, one needs to be extra careful when dealing with kittens because they tend to get this disease very often.

The usual cat distemper symptoms include high fever and loss of appetite. However, in some cats, vomiting, diarrhea and dehydration are also indicators of feline distemper. As soon as you notice these symptoms, you must rush to the vet because this disease is a killer. Till date, there is no specific treatment for the disease, but early detection and use of supportive fluids and antibiotics can go a long way in ensuring that the cat lives.

The best way to keep your cat safe from this deadly disease is vaccination. Kittens, sometimes, inherit a short-lived immunity from their mothers but it is nothing permanent. The first doses of the vaccine should be given when the kitten is six to eight weeks old. The vaccination needs to be repeated when the kitten is twelve weeks of age and sixteen weeks of age. This completes the dosage but an annual booster is required to ensure that the cat remains immune to the disease.

Keep your cat away from strays and other cats until its vaccination is administered properly. Even in instances where you rescue cats or bring new ones home, avoid bringing them in contact with others before vaccination. Take care of your cats and ensure that you take them to the vet immediately in case you see any cat distemper symptom.

Cat Distemper Symptoms

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Cat Scratching Poles - Are They Effective?

Cats possess an inherent instinct that may direct them to playfully scratch and climb on possessions such as furniture. When you are not giving the proper tools for your cat to utilize, they are going to use whatever they might unearth to scratch. For most, the times this will be pieces of furniture, drapes, counter tops or any thing that they are able to scratch.

You may be wondering what makes a cat scratch? Scratching is often an enjoyable action which many cats like to do. It helps clear away old layers of nails on the cat's claws. Cats also scratch to recognise their territories in the home whenever you have more animals or cats at home which unfortunately it's method of enlightening them that is their space.

CAT DECLAWING

The cat scratch post is a reasonably straight forward item, it is a area for a cat scratch on safely and continue its instincts sharpened. A very basic version are made up of merely a wood board protected in carpeting which may be attacked when needed by your kitten, sharpening its paws in addition to letting off steam. The coarse cloth that protects your scratching post is normally durable for countering the great amount of use, from even your most unrelenting cats. These can come in all different heights and dimensions, and be decorated with any colour of fabric a person prefers, to mix into house surroundings.

Additional intricate cat scratching posts can consist of a couple of diverse stages, along with spaces to take cover in or branches to ascend. Those might be particularly satisfying for your house cat that still has any wild instincts of its out of doors neighbors and may need a actual area to have fun. Stop household accidents as a result of letting your cat get this constructive release rather than ripping up your piece of furniture. The posts can also be built from different materials besides the most elementary wooden base, including plastic, cardboard, or wicker. Almost any material that acts as a robust support for your scratching material is able to be substituted in its place. An additional type of scratching outlet may be scratching mats, which allows the cat to sharpen its claws in a straightforward and efficient manner.

Training your cat to scratch on a post or tree does not come simple. You will have to show the moggy what your pole can be for and what ways that they may do on it. You yourself will have to scratch at the pole to present them that the following can be acceptable to perform at that place. Supplying great playtime together with a kitten using the pole may show the cat that they are able to utilize it. Along with thanking the kitty using an important massage or even wholesome food whenever they do make use of the scratching post. It will allow the cat know the behavior is acceptable.

Cat Scratching Poles - Are They Effective?

Want to buy a cat scratch post? We recommend taking a look at the Kitty Scratcher by Emery Cat. It is the latest type of cat scratch post and has been getting some very positive feedback from users.

CAT DECLAWING

Does Your Cat Have Dandruff? Here's Some Things You Should Know

Have you noticed that your cat seems to be developing a dandruff problem? Believe it or not, cats can be afflicted with dandruff just like people can. It's kind of funny when you think about it, but most of us would rather avoid having cat flakes getting all over the carpet and furniture, especially when we already have to deal with all the hair they shed.

cat carrier

So why does a cat get dandruff? A common reason for this is if your cat is overweight. With all that extra flab getting in the way, poor Snowflake has a tough time cleaning herself everywhere, so the skin becomes dry and dandruff results. Obviously the best way to fix this problem is to put your cat on a diet. Not only will the dandruff problem resolve, but your cat will be healthier and live a longer life as well.

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Of course this weight won't come off immediately, so in the meantime you will have to take care of the dandruff problem another way. There are pet shampoos specifically targeted toward dandruff, so go ahead and pick up one of these at your local pet shop. You always want to make sure to carefully rinse off the shampoo completely, because if any is left on it could irritate your cat's skin. Also, make sure you don't bathe the cat too often because cats skin produces natural oils, and if it's constantly washed away then it could irritate your cat's skin and actually contribute to the dandruff problem.

Tea tree oil is another way to help with dandruff. This is beneficial for a variety of skin conditions other than dandruff, and an added benefit is it will get rid of any itchiness your cat might be having.

Does Your Cat Have Dandruff? Here's Some Things You Should Know

Brandy has been an avid writer and blogger for the past 2 years. Some of her hobbies include bowling, hiking, and singing in a choir. In addition, she builds informational websites. check out one of her latest sites at http://www.antiquesideboard.org where she provides some great information on antique sideboard, buffet tables, cabinets, and hutches.

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Cats Behavior - How to Read Your Cat's Body Language

You can learn to read your cat's unique signals and understand her better.

Rubs

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A cat who rubs her head or body against you or rubs her ears and face on you is showing affection. She's giving you her scent, claiming you as her own. Her affections are even stronger, if she arches her back while rubbing against you.

Eyes

Cats use their eyes to communicate. You're probably familiar with the sleepy, eyes-half-closed look, however, the eyes give other signals. Eyes wide open and looking at you show that your cat is paying attention to you. Slow blinking signals relaxation.

Tail

Most people know how to "read" a dog's tail, yet cats' tails also indicate how they are feeling. Held high, the tail communicates confidence and trust. When curled around another cat's tail or a person's legs, it is friendly greeting. When the tail is moving, it usually indicates excitement. The cat is either in predator mode, or is feeling playful, hiding behind a chair ready to pounce on a passing person or cat. Swishing of your cat's tail means that he is perturbed or upset.

Ears

Flattened ears show alarm. This cat is angry or defensive. You may be scratched or bitten if you approach. Ears straight up show that the cat is relaxed and in the mood for fun or affection.

Whiskers

When held slightly to the side, the whiskers indicate that your cat is in a relaxed mood. When your cat becomes interested in something, her whiskers will come forward in front of her muzzle. When your cat is feeling threatened, she will pull her whiskers back along her cheeks as a sign of submission.

Spend some time just observing your cat for these behaviors and note the context. What is happening around her and what time of day is it? Hopefully you'll find that you understand a lot more about what she's thinking.

Cats Behavior - How to Read Your Cat's Body Language

Jenny is a cat lover and webmaster of Pictures of Cats You are welcome to reproduce this article on your pet or family related web site, as long as you reproduce the article in full, including this resource box and link to her website featuring photo and video galleries of beautiful cats.

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Cat Owners Guide to Grooming Your Precious Pet

Most cats will lick themselves all the time. This is there way of keeping themselves clean. However, a cat owner can further help with improving the cat's overall hygiene. Read further for simple tips on grooming your short-haired feline friend.

catwoman costume

Short haired cats do not need to be groomed as often as long haired cats need it, but it is recommended to be done at least twice a week (versus every day for long haired cats). The reason why is to make sure that the cat is free from flees and ticks, and to check for any other abnormalities, such as bald spots or inflammations of the skin.

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Your cat's overall health will be greatly improved by keeping its hair neatly combed and wash, and trimmed periodically. The best type of brush for a short haired cat would be one with very short bristles. Too long of bristles, especially if the bristles are metal, can cut your cat's skin. Be sure when combing your short haired cat that you use the proper comb for it.

Even though a short haired cat is less likely to get hair balls or mats (chunks of cat hair stuck together or tangled), it is still possible. Be careful when trying to remove them, especially in older cats. Before cutting off a hair matt, make sure that you insert a comb underneath the matted hair, above the skin. Then, very carefully cut with a cat grooming scissors, and be sure not to scratch or puncture the cat's skin.

One brush contains extra small pins, and a small enough head to make brushing cats very easily. Be careful to brush the direction of your cat's hair growth, otherwise you may hear it snarl. (Washing your cat's hair in the wrong direction is like petting an animal's hair in the wrong direction, and causes discomfort to the pet.)

Another necessary step in helping keep your cat clean and well groomed is to give the cat a bath. It is recommended to take a towel and a small carrier into the bathroom with you in case your cat gets upset before, during or after the bathing routine. The cat can be placed in it until he or she calms down.

When bathing the cat, it is best to use the proper shampoo. A gentle cat shampoo that lathers up pretty good is recommended. Either that, or if a cat has dandruff, it is best to use a shampoo that will help reduce the dryness and flaking of the cat's skin. If the cat does not have dandruff, but instead has fleas, be sure to use a flea shampoo, and the proper flea comb to remove them.

Other grooming tips, when applied can help giving your cat a bath much easier, and safer. One tip to remember before putting your cat into the bathwater (usually in a sink or baby bath pan, because cats are too small to fit in a bathtub) is to make sure that your house temperature is at least 70 degrees, so your cat does not freeze when taken out of the water to dry.

Furthermore, before you put your cat into the bathwater, sure to check the temperature of the water, so it is not too hot or too cold for your cat. The part of the hand that provides the most accurate indication of water temperature is the on the back of your hand, or on the wrist. Best results for providing the right water temperature is to make sure you periodically test it when you are filling up the sink or other bath basin with water, and not afterwards.

One more tip to remember when it is time to bathe your cat is to keep on hand at least two towels on hand. One should be used for drying, and the other towel should be used for wrapping. For greater warmth, a blanket can also be used after towel drying to prevent the cat from getting a cold or sickness.

To protect the cat's ears while bathing, you can insert cotton balls into your cat's ears. Inserting these cotton balls can reduce the chance of ear infection from forming, especially immediately after the cat is removed from the bath water.

When you remove your cat from the bath water, be sure to quickly and thoroughly dry the cat off.) This, along with making sure the cat's ears are plugged will taking a bath will help fight against the possibility of cold or sickness when the cat's wet body is exposed to the air (even if the room temperature is 70 degrees, because the water is usually slightly hotter than that).

After you give your cat a bath, it is better to let your cat rest for a little while, especially if the cat is upset from having to take a bath. When your cat is calm, and then will want to comb and/or trim his or her hair, and check for matted hair. Again, cats with short hair are less likely to have tangled hair, but if there is, you can use a cat hair detangler to spray onto the coat of hair. This will help make combing through the tangles easier.

When trimming a cat's hair, be sure that you have the proper grooming scissors, and be sure that you using a comb underneath the scissors, so you do not scratch or puncture your cat's skin. If you do not feel comfortable cutting your own cat's hair, or if you do not have the patience you can hire a professional pet groomer who will do it for you. However, if you just keep in mind to just make sure you cut evenly, without hurting the cat, you will be just fine grooming your cat at home.

Cat Owners Guide to Grooming Your Precious Pet

Complete Pet Guide [http://www.completepetguide.com/] is committed to bringing you high quality resources and information on dog and cat pet care and training. For great articles, resource and tips try Complete Pet Guide Blog [http://www.completepetguide.com/blog]

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Grooming A Short-Haired Cat

Most cats are able to keep themselves clean without much help from their owner. Cats with long hair, arthritis or injured cats, will need help keeping their coat in good condition. Grooming also helps them to remain mentally and physically healthy.

o Regular Grooming reduces the amount of shed hair in your home

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o Grooming provides an opportunity to check your cat all over for skin ailments and any unusual lumps

o You are able to check for signs of fleas and ticks

o Prevents hairballs

o Creates bonding time with your cat

o Prevents the hair from matting

o Grooming is enjoyable for your cat.

A short haired cat can be considered low maintenance compared with the long haired cat. Short coats can easily be kept clean by gently stroking your cat. Using your hand to groom will loosen dead hairs, tone muscles and help you bond with your cat. Grooming once a week is good enough for a short haired cat. If you feel like your hand needs assistance in the grooming process, you can invest in a fine-toothed comb and a stiff brush. The result of grooming your cat will be a happy cuddlesome cat that will look good and feel great.

Grooming A Short-Haired Cat

Guide to Cats [http://www.cat-guide.net]. Get information on buying, owning and caring for your cat, learn more about Cat Grooming [http://www.cat-guide.net/Cat+Grooming.html].

Paul Hegarty is the owner of Learningfromdvds.com, Price compare Fitness DVDs, read reviews, download free E-books. Read this month’s e-book on "How To Spot A fraudulent Email". Grab your free copy today.

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Name Tags for Dogs

If you are looking for a stylish or custom id tag for your dog or puppy, visit "Name Tags for Dogs" and find many wonderful designs.


Some examples are:

• heart shape with a paw in the centre
• round bone shape
• flower shape
• flag and heart shape flag (American)
• pirate
• mini pet health problem tag
• fire hydrant
• Crystal crown, and much more!

And the engraving is free! Normally your dog's name will be on the back of the tag along with your phone number.

For the extra pampered pooch, browse the custom design a tag.

Also check out the Pet Tags Blog.

Handicapped Cats - To Kill Or Not to Kill?

Your six week old kitten just got the front door slammed on him, breaking his back. The vet says he won't ever be able to use his back legs again. He will not be able to walk or use the litter box. You are going to have to take care of him. What do you do? Kill him, or keep him?

I say you keep him! You will have to learn how to take care of him. It will be a lot of work, but the love that the two of you will have for each other is well worth it. How do I know this? My wife and I have three cats whose back legs don't work. One cat that was born with short front legs. One cat that had her back broken as a kitten, she can use her back legs but can't control her bladder or her colon. We also have a cat that has leukemia. Oh yeah, we also have five normal cats that we rescued.

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I think our cats don't know that they are handicapped. They run around and play a lot. They act like they really do enjoy being alive. We get a lot of joy and laughs from them. We have had to learn how to express their bladder and colon (make them pee and poop). That can be quit challenging. When you express the bladder you have to gently squeeze it and it likes to move around like a little water balloon.

We keep diapers on the cats that can't use the litter box. We change them twice a day. Express their bladder twice a day, and express their colon once a day. One of the problems with having to express the bladder is it is hard to get the bladder completely empty. This can lead to bladder infections, which happens about twice a year per cat. They have to be on special cat food to keep the infections down.

We have been taking care of handicapped cats for over five years. We have people say (behind our backs) that we should have had the cats "put to sleep". It does cost a lot of money and time to take care of them. We don't travel very much because of them. It is a lot of work to take care of them. It would be so much easier not to have them. Who wants easy! We love our cats and wouldn't trade them for anything. To kill or not to kill? We choose not!

Handicapped Cats - To Kill Or Not to Kill?

If you would like to see our cats and find out more about them, please go to http://www.lovingbristol.com

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Holistic Cat Food

Have you ever heard of holistic cat food? If not, here are a few pointers on why many people think this is the best approach to raising a healthy cat. When you shop for cat food, do you think that most brands are about the same? Cat food is not regulated like food made for human consumption.

The current regulations for pet food allow the use of ingredients that you would be shocked to learn are used at all. The holistic cat food approach provides all natural ingredients in the right amount to provide your cat with the vitamins he needs to be healthy.

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The holistic foods that are made for cats contain no corn, wheat, or artificial flavors. For example, the chicken that is used to make chicken meal for cat foods is the same grade chicken that is approved for humans to eat. The water is removed so the cat receives a more concentrated protein from this chicken than other types.

Most manufactured holistic cat food has a high antioxidant content and are a great source for protein, which your cat needs for energy. The antioxidants include foods such as carrots, spinach, garlic, and apples to name a few. Another really effective antioxidant is grape seed extract.

When it comes to proteins to give your cat the vim and vitality that he needs, eggs are a great source. They are more digestible than most protein foods and the vitamins they contain are necessary for cell growth.

Your cat needs carbohydrates as another energy source, so brown rice is another ingredient in this type of food that will provide this source. The plus factor for this cat food is they contain only trace amounts of fats and fatty acids. No more than are necessary for your cat's health are added so he does not get anything that can cause health problems.

Another ingredient that is used is beet pulp. This ingredient provides a source of fiber and is not like the other fiber sources. This one produces short chain fatty acids. They are the ones that good bacteria in the body use for food.

Your cat depends on you to take care of him and make sure he is as healthy as possible. The feline version of the couch potato is not a healthy cat. By feeding him the healthiest cat food that you can, he will have more energy. He will not suffer from illnesses that could have been prevented. His chances of living longer are greatly increased. Holistic cat food has all the necessary nutrients to keep your cat the healthiest he can be.

Holistic Cat Food

Click Here [http://www.catfoodsecretsbook.com] to find out if you are unwillingly poisoning your cat to death!

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Cat Safety

Outdoor cat safety is one issue most cat owners do not think about. You get a new cat or kitten. Provide some cat toys and think this will satisfy your new pet. Then you discover that your cat wants to go outside. He has been sitting looking out the window. Trying to get some fresh air and sunshine. So you let him out. I have done this in the past with a new cat, so I know the feeling.

Then you discover he has not come home. Maybe missing for several days. Or, if he does come home, he is injured.

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The dangers that await a cat left roaming on his own are endless.

Antifreeze leaking from a parked car, a neighbor who dislikes cats digging in her garden beds, dogs, garage doors left open to air out that may contain rodent products or other pesticides, and on and on.

Other cats. Cats are territorial and if not neutered, cat fights erupt.

Depending on where you live, coyotes are a huge threat to a cat's safety. Coyotes can run 60 miles per hour and will eat anything. A cat is no match for the coyote's swiftness.

The answer to this problem is a cat enclosure. This environment provides safety while allowing your new pet to be outside and safe at the same time. Enjoying fresh air and sunshine.

Once you have a design for your new enclosure, you can begin thinking about what to put in it.

The possibilities are endless.

Cat shelves can be built into the sides of the enclosure or built like a picnic table for perching. An old ladder, properly anchored into the ground provides a great area for climbing and perching, since cats really enjoy heights.

The garden area can be planted with plants that are not poisonous to cats.

Plants to grow for a cat include: catnip, thyme, sage, parsley,chickweed, lawn grass, wheat or oat cereal grass.

Finding catnip plants in the nursery or local home depot is costly. The best way is to start your own catnip plants.

First, find some quality catnip seeds. Do a Google search and you can find some that come in quantity of 1/4 oz and more. Since not all the seeds will germinate, it's best to place many seeds in each pot.

Moisten a bag of seed germinating potting soil so it is moist but not soaking.

Put the moistened soil in several small plastic pots. Take a pencil and make 1/8" holes. Using a plastic spoon, put several seeds in each hole. Moisten all this with a spray bottle.

Catnip germinates in darkness. Cover all your pots with plastic wrap. Cover with a towel.

Germinating takes about 2 weeks. Also, catnip does not require heat to germinate.

Every day, take off the plastic tops and moisten with the spray bottle. Soil must be kept moist for germinating to take place.

After about 10 days to 14 days, the little green shoots will appear.

Your pots are ready to be placed in a south window.

Catnip is very hardy once established. Once it is moved to the garden area, it will produce beautiful purple blossoms about mid summer.

It will reseed itself over time and continue to spread in your garden.

For decorating, instead of an ordinary outside light that is on most porches, you can purchase very cheaply, solar lights that both poke into the ground and hang from poles dug into the ground.

There are many resources on the Internet to build your own cat enclosure. It does not have to be fancy or huge for that matter.

One key element to the success of your enclosure is to provide a pet door. Your new pet can come and go as he pleases.

Pet doors come in a variety of sizes and styles. Some fit into a traditional door or even a sliding door.

Once your enclosure is up, you can let your new cat or kitten out with peace of mind.

Everyone benefits from this action.

Your animal gets the benefit of the outdoors. You get peace of mind knowing he is safe.

Cat Safety

Sandy Brewer
Cat owner for 30 years.
Cat safety blog: http://sandyscats.blogspot.com

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Three Things to Know Before You Feed Your Cat Homemade Cat Food

Cats that eat homemade cat food are much healthier then cats that eat commercial cat food but some of our food is poison to them. Cats can not have onions, garlic, or chives. Anything in that vegetable family is off limits. It is poison!

Cats also can not have tomatoes, raisins, or chocolate. I've heard of a cat dying from eating just one cherry tomato. Now I'm not telling you this to scare you because your cat will live a much longer, healthier life with homemade food. I just want you to be aware that there are danger foods.

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Did you know that cats are actually lactose intolerant? Milk will not kill them but it will make them feel bad. Cats don't have the enzyme to break down the sugar in the milk. If you want to use milk in your homemade cat food use lactose free milk. Lactose free milk is just milk that has the sugar already broken down. You can buy it at any grocery store.

Cats need a lot of Taurine. Taurine is an essential amino acid that is required for the digestion of fats in the small intestine. Taurine is also required for a cat's nervous system to work, for their sight (without enough taurine a cat will lose it eye sight within two years), and for their muscles to work properly. Cats have to get this amino acid from the food they eat. Taurine is found in raw meats. Again this is just something you need to be aware of.

Three Things to Know Before You Feed Your Cat Homemade Cat Food

Cat food secrets will show you how to easily and safely feed your cat so he can get the nutrition and health that he needs and deserves. Homemade cat food is a wonderful way to show your cat how much you love him and your cat will return the favor.

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Siberian Tigers - The Biggest Cat Species In The World

The Siberian Tiger is found in cold regions in Russia and China. To survive in the harsh climate, the tiger builds up fat reserves. Siberian Tigers are also much larger than the tiger variants found in warm habitats, since a large body will conserve heat more efficiently than a small body. During the cold winter, a Siberian Tiger will need up to 10 kilograms of meat a day to do well. It hunts primarily wild boar, deer and elk and can eat much more than 10 kilograms in one gulp if given the opportunity. Siberian Tigers have been noticed when they feast on 50 kilograms of meat or more. The staple food is wild boar, and the Siberian Tiger population is therefore dependant on a healthy wild boar population. Roughly 50 percent of the tigers' diet is typically made up by wild boar. Siberian Tigers can also catch smaller prey, such as lynx, rabbit, rodents and fish. The Siberian Tiger can also occasionally hunt bear.

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The hunting style of the Siberian Tiger is based on surprise attacks. The Siberian Tiger is capable of running faster than 50 miles an hour, but can only keep up this speed during short and explosive attacks. The Siberian Tiger will therefore usually choose to hunt during the night, when it can use its supreme night vision to ambush prey. The Siberian Tiger is also equipped with superb hearing and a keen sense of smell that is helpful during the hunt.

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The Siberian Tiger lives in oak, birch and coniferous woodlands in Russian Siberia and northern China. The Chinese population is almost extinct, just like the Korean population, but the Russian population shows strong signs of recovery and has increased significantly during the last two decades. In 1997, there were approximately 350-400 Siberian Tigers living in Russia.

Siberian Tigers mate during December or January and the cub litter is born during early spring when the climate is less harsh and prey offspring are abundant. The Siberian Tiger is a solitary dweller and they will only form pairs during the short mating period. Two Siberian Tigers have been seen hunting together during the mating period, but this is quite extraordinary. They will usually prefer to hunt alone even during the mating period. The female tiger will care for the cubs alone and teach them how to hunt. The gestation period of the Siberian Tiger is 3-3.5 months.

The Siberian Tiger litter will usually comprise three or four cubs. The cubs are born toothless and with closed eyes. After 14 days, the eyes will begin to open. The cub will consume milk from the mother for roughly six months. Siberian Tigers learn how to hunt from their mother. After around a year, the cubs will have become somewhat independent and capable hunters, but they will still stay with their mother until they are 3-5 years old. The life of the young cubs is hard and it is unusual for more than one tiger from each litter to reach maturity.

Siberian Tigers - The Biggest Cat Species In The World

Read more info about the Siberian tiger and White Siberian tigers [http://www.siberiantiger.info/white.php]

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4 Reasons Not to Declaw Your Kitten Or Cat

Kittens or cats are considered to be the most loveable and popular pets all over the world. It has become somewhat of a common practice these days, especially if your kitten or cat is an indoor pet to have them declawed.

If you already have a kitten or cat then you are well aware of the pain you can experience from being scratched and how destructive to your furniture and woodwork their claws can be. Unfortunately, it is in their nature to scratch and claw things but there are some things you can do to solve the problem.

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With training and a lot of patience on your part, they can be trained to stop scratching furniture and woodwork all together or at least to a lesser amount. If you provide them with a scratching post and show them where it is located, most generally they will use the post from then on with only a few forgetful times on their part. At those times a little squirt from a bottle of water will remind them quite quickly that they are not supposed to scratch and claw there again.

Their scratching place doesn't exactly have to be a post, you can cover a piece of wood with carpet and that will work just as well. They just need something to be able to scratch on and exercise their muscles.

4 Reasons Not To Declaw Your Kitten Or Cat.

1. Hunting. If your cat is an indoor cat, of course this really doesn't apply because they will not need to be hunting. But if the cat happens to get out of the house for any length of time, they would need their claws to hunt and catch something to eat. Just think if your cat got out of the house and had no way to find anything to eat until you found them or even worse if you never find them; they would starve to death.

2. Self-defense. Indoor cats would not have any reason for self-defense. But again if the cat gets out of the house, they will need their claws for self-defense and protection. Imagine a scared and lost cat that is used to living indoors all of the time is suddenly confronted by something and they have no way of protecting themselves or getting away.  With no claws, they cannot climb a tree to escape the danger they are in.

3. Climbing, kneading and extra traction.  Cats need their claws for climbing, kneading and extra traction.  What good is a scratching post or platform if they have nothing to climb on or knead with?  Training the cat not to climb in the house is also another part of the patience and training you have to go through.  Kneading is a cats' way of showing love and devotion to you.  Now wouldn't you miss that?  Traction is one of the most enjoyable reasons for owning a cat in the first place is to watch them run through the house and play.

4. Cruel and painful. This is the most important point of all of the 4 Reasons Not To Declaw Your Kitten Or Cat.  Declawing a cat is one of the most painful things they can go through.  It is basically amputating the last bone of the toes, along with tendons, nerves and muscles being removed times 10.  In comparison to a human, it is like cutting off the last joint of each finger.  Thinking in terms of your own fingers, how could you want to put an animal through that much pain and torture?

Trimming the claws does take time, patience and sometimes a little strength to hold them and may take several sessions but it is definitely preferable to trim the claws, versus declawing the cat.  Wrapping your cat in a large towel can help in holding them while you are trimming their claws and also prevent injury to yourself.  Be sure to do this in a well lit area so you can see where you are cutting.  Do not cut too far down into the pink area of the claw.  This will cause the cat pain and bleeding.

I wish you many years of fun and unconditional love between you and your cat.

4 Reasons Not to Declaw Your Kitten Or Cat

If your kitten or cat happens to have a stubborn streak and your training and patience have not produced any results, visit http://www.squidoo.com/Soft-Paws-stop-cats-from-clawing for a safe and economical alternative to declawing your kitten or cat.

"Copyright (c) 2009 Monna Ellithorpe. All Rights Reserved"

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Is Your Cat Infected With Lungworm?

Lungworm infestations are common in any countries where 10 to 20 percent of the cat population is infected; this is especially true of rural areas. Lungworms in cats tend not to be a major cause of respiratory problems, however when the cat has a chronic respiratory problem lungworms may well be the cause.

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Lungworms are amazingly easy for the domestic cat to get infested with, as they use the common garden slugs and sails as hosts until they reach a suitable animal. Normally, lungworms will end up in a cats system by it eating something that was a host to it. This could be the slug or snail itself, although cats tend not to eat these as they don't taste very nice, or more probably from a bird that has consumed a slug or snail previously hosting lungworm.

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Lungworms can be up to 10mm long and they look just like hairs. Lungworms will develop in the tissue of the cats lungs after it has consumed a host or an animal that has eaten a host (such as a bird).

Most cats will not show any signs that they have lungworm, but if they do show any symptoms at all it will normally be a persistent cough. To positively diagnose the presence of lungworm the vet will have to find the coiled shaped microscopic lungworm larvae which are excreted in the cat's faeces. Normally cases of lungworm in cats will clear up by themselves in a few months, if they are left alone. But severe lungworm infestations need to be treated by a vet, as this will normally not get any better if left untreated.

The most common type of lungworm found is Aelurostrongylus, which is very wide spread. However, there are other forms of lungworm too, such as Capillaria aerophilia which also looks like a hair but the symptoms are just a occasional wheeze and a cough, this strain is most common in Australia. The strain known as Paragonimus kellicotti can sometimes be found in cats from North America who have caught it from eating larvae carrying crayfish or crabs.

Mild cases of lungworm in cats are nothing to worry about and will clear naturally, however if you are unsure it is best to consult your vet, as the underlying problem could be something worse.

Is Your Cat Infected With Lungworm?

Written by Laura Marsh. Did you find the information on cat health useful?

You can find out more great cat information at http://www.caringforyourcat.info

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What Every Cat Owner Should Know About Their Cat Temperament and Behavior

Cats are mysterious creatures. To people who do not own cats, or to those who have never tried to understand them, they may appear moody, aloof and unfriendly. Anyone who has never lived with one may find them perplexing, mischievous and in some cases as needy as a small child. But a person who understands cats will quickly tell you that they are warm, affectionate companions with a high intellect and an independent spirit.

catherine ps3

Cats have a reputation for being antisocial loners, and to some degree, this is true. In the wild, they are solitary hunters who do not seek out other cats for socialization. They live alone, hunt alone, and most of the time prefers to be left alone. Lions are the exception of this rule; they live in prides and hunt together as a unit. This sense of independence and self-reliance is one reason why many cat owners prefer cats as pets. Unlike dogs, they do not mind being left alone all day, and they do not need to be let outside to tend to their bathroom needs.

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However, is cats are left completely alone for long periods of time or become bored with their surroundings, they will find interesting ways to amuse themselves. This is why some cats act up or misbehave and do things they should not, like shred toilet paper or explore off limit areas of your countertop.

Despite their independent nature, cats and kittens do love their human companions. Over time, they bond closely to their families and given the right amount of attention, will often communicate with them. Unlike dogs, cats do not see people as part of their pack or consider their owner to be their master. If anything, they consider their human to be an equal or just another big cat.

A cat's teeth are designed for tearing, grasping and shredding prey. Adults have 30 teeth while kittens have 26 deciduous (baby, or milk) teeth. At around three and a half to four and a half months of age, kittens begin teething. By the time they are six months old; they lose all their baby teeth and grow a full set of adult teeth. Some cats may develop problems with their teeth as they age. Common dental problems for seniors include sensitive teeth, gum disease, loose teeth and tooth decay.

If a cat has ever licked you, you know that his tongue feels rough, like sandpaper. The tongue is covered with hundreds of papillae - tiny backward facing hook like structures that act like a natural hairbrush, which a cat uses for grooming the coat. In the wild, cats use their rough tongues to lick meat off bones. Their taste buds are located on the sides, tip, and back of the tongue. Cats and kittens can taste bitter, acids, and salty flavors but not sweet tastes. When drinking, they curl their tongue in at the sides to form a cup or spoon to lap up the liquid.

Anyone who owns a cat or kitten must remember that each is a unique individual. No two cats are exactly alike and they each have their own personality quirks and preferences.

Some kittens and cats crave affection and will curl up on your lap at night, while others will be content to sit next to you on the arm of the sofa. Cats and kitten love to play and enjoy interacting with their owners during their daily playtime.

What Every Cat Owner Should Know About Their Cat Temperament and Behavior

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Cat Aggression Problems - How to Deal With Psychotic Kitty Behavior Without Losing Your Mind

Is your special little friend and companion developing serious cat aggression problems? Unfortunately, this is a common problem for many feline owners and it can be a nerve wracking experience to see your once cuddly buddy viciously attacking another cat in the house or even you! In order to counter this, its necessary to be able to observe and learn exactly what kind of aggression issues kitty is experiencing. Narrowing down the source of aggression is the key to eliminating aggressive cat behavior.

cat tree

Feline On Feline Aggression!

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If your cuddly buddy is flipping out and beating the tar out of the other cats in the house, it could be a case of social aggression resulting from dominance issues. This is especially true if a new cat/kitten has been introduced and has up set the social structure. Dominant cats will almost always seek to make sure a new cat knows his place. If the new feline is also dominant, this could make for some brutal fights if left unchecked. Cats experience these sort of cat aggression problems need to be watched carefully, especially if the rival cat is nearby.

Feline On Human Aggression!

Probably one of the most disturbing manifestations of cat aggression problems is when your loving and gentle kitty goes berserk and attacks you. This is an unfortunate circumstance and could be caused by several things. Your cat could simply be under-stimulated and asking for attention. On the other hand if the attack is accompanied by growling and hissing, something has genuinely upset kitty. This could be health related or your cat taking out his frustrations towards another situation on you. In any case, your cat/kitten will need to be closely monitored to find out what is upsetting him.

Is There A Way To Stop Cat Aggression Problems?

Yes, very rarely is there a situation where a cat's aggressive behavior can't be fixed. The key is understanding and pinpointing the source of your cat's problem. Once that is discovered eliminating this bad behavior is quite simple. However, cats can be extremely hard to understand sometimes due to their subtle nature. Also some cats don't communicate as well as others.

Cat Aggression Problems - How to Deal With Psychotic Kitty Behavior Without Losing Your Mind

Click Here For A Wealth Of Information On Determining Just Which Cat Aggression Problems Your Cat Is Suffering From!

So I Know What Kind Of Aggression Problem My Cat Has. What Now?

Now its time to take action and put an end to your cat's bad behavior once and for all. The type of aggression problem your cat has will determine what must be done. The guide featured in the link below will show you exactly what to do and how to do it. Your cat's aggression problems will be over before you know it!

Click Here And Put An End To Your Cat Aggression Problems Today!

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Socializing Cats

Birman Cats

I first fell in love with Birman cats ten years ago when I went to an acquaintances' house to see her new cat, a gorgeous pure-bred Birman male named Darshan. Darshan sat regally on top of a very high cat tree that looked like it was made for a king, alongside another beautiful Birman female.

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I was captivated by their beauty, and when I learned more about this breed, their folk lore, and their history, I promised myself my next cat would be a Birman. However, I put that thought in the back of my mind and eventually forgot about it.

How I Won the Heart of my Unsocialized Birman Cat

A few years later, my cat died, and because I always have a cat in my household, I went looking for a new cat companion almost immediately. I strongly believe in adopting pets from shelters or sanctuaries because of the enormous problem of over-population of cats and dogs. So, I started looking on the Pet Finders website, and was surprised to see a cat that looked almost identical to Darshan available at a local pet sanctuary. I immediately got on the phone and asked if she was still available. The owner told me the cat's name was Leanne and was a Himalayan mix. However, when I went to see her, I could see she was a Birman.

Purebred Birmans are very expensive and can range from 0-0. I was thrilled and immediately wanted to adopt her in spite of the fact she had a history of neglect and socialization issues-she was extremely shy and hid from people all of the time. It was almost impossible to find her when I came to meet her for the first time at the sanctuary, and no one had been able to bond with her after months of trying. The Director of the sanctuary warned that Leanne might never become socialized.

When I adopted Leanne, she was two, and now at six, she's a fully socialized member of my household who loves my dog, Beardog, greets people who come by, and loves to sit on my lap and sleep with me at night. It took me many months to help coax her out of her shell, and she continued hiding for a long time. But now she has all the wonderful traits of Birman cats. They are gentle cats that generally like people and other animals, they are strong and healthy with few genetic problems, and they are charming and highly social.

These were my strategies to make Leanne love me and come out of the closet:

I bribed her with toys and play time - I found that if I brought her toys at the end of the day, she was willing to play with me (this was amazing because she absolutely refused to interact with anyone at the sanctuary). Every day when I arrived home from work, I would bring her some new interactive toy and sit on the floor with her for about an hour as she jumped around like any normal kitten who loves to play.

By far the best and most well-made toy I found was Da Bird. A friend who had recently adopted two cats recommended Da Bird, and it really brought her out of her shell. While relaxing and watching television, I would keep my unsocialized cat busy, literally for hours, jumping and doing amazing back flips I didn't know were possible even for gymnastic felines. The way to my Birman's heart was gymnastics!

I found some cat furniture she could call her own - All cats must scratch to exercise their muscles and sharpen their claws (please do not declaw your cat!), so you must provide adequate scratching posts - I found a great post online!

Cats, like dogs, kids, and most adults, are easily impressed with treats - Treats are a great way to teach your cat to come when you call. After they know there are treats in a bag, simply shake the bag and call, and you can usually get even unsocialized cats to show up. Get treats that are good for your cat!

Catnip makes cats happy - Catnip is to cats like chocolate is to humans. It makes their brains feel good and seems to provoke a positive response in felines. Buying toys with catnip, providing catnip plants, or fresh dried catnip, is a great way to show your unsocialized cat you have lots to offer and are a great provider.

In addition to cat toys, cat furniture, cat treats, and catnip, I also employed some important cat psychology to build trust in my skittish Birman. Money alone cannot buy the love of an unsocialized cat. Leanne was, in spite of all of the treats, toys, and bribes still hiding in the basement ceiling more often than I wanted. Here are tips for developing a healthy long-term relationship with a cat:

Never yell at a cat - it doesn't work, especially if a cat is already skittish.
If you must discipline a feline, it is best to clap loudly when they are naughty so they associate an uncomfortable sound with their behavior rather than attribute discipline directly to you.
Never hit a cat - cats will never forgive any kind of physical discipline, and they will lose any trust you have worked hard to win.
Be patient and do not expect socialization to occur quickly - it took about 3 months before Leanne was comfortable walking around my room freely, and another month before she would move freely around my house. For a long time, she would run with her tail low from one hiding place to another, just coming out for play times and treats and then retreating to her safe hiding places.
Do not pull cats out of their hiding places - allow them to come out on their own when they are ready.
Once you have set up their litter box and sleeping and eating areas, do not change them! Cats hate change and when they are just becoming socialized, it is best not to make too many changes.
Brush your cat often, and show as much affection as they will tolerate. Leanne loved to be brushed even when she was still in her hiding phase. Grooming is a great way to bond with animals.

It's true that many cats, such as ferals, cannot be socialized, and it isn't a good idea to bring one home. But there are those cats that you find at a shelter that may be very shy, yet still have a chance at happy domestic life. If you have the patience and the time to work with such a cat, you can have wonderful companion. These tips will make all the difference.

Socializing Cats

Kartika Damon is a writer who resides in Fairfield, Iowa, with her Chow-mix, Beardog, and Birman cat, Leanne. Her website, http://www.caringforpetsonline.com.com [http://www.caringforpetsonline.com], is a source of information and inspiration for pet owners and animal lovers.

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Urinary Tract Blockage in Cats - Four Ways to Nurse Your Cat Back to Health

Urinary tract blockage in cats can be a painful ordeal for your pet. There are many causes for this condition; it can be caused by stones (similar to us humans), or inflammatory debris and crystals which may develop in the urinary tract. Male cats are more prone to developing this condition, and there are more long-haired breeds affected by it compared to their short-haired cousins.

It's important to get the urinary tract blockage in cats out first; then, the vet will run various tests to further look into your animal's condition. Once the test results are out, and the probable cause determined, your vet will start your cat on treatments. Depending on your cat's condition, the doctor may ask that your pet stay in the hospital for a few days for continuous treatment and observation. But when it's time for you to take your pet home, what can you do to ensure that kitty gets well under your watch? The doctor may have given you specific instructions on administering medication, what kind of food to give your cat, and all the other basic 'medical' stuff you need to look out for. But as your cat's most trusted friend, what should you do to nurse your cat back to health?

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1. Follow doctor's orders. This is crucial, and will help prevent relapses. If your cat is on medication or antibiotics, be mindful of the time of administration, and the dosage. If your cat needs to go on a special diet, follow the special diet to the T. Don't give in to the urge of giving your cat a treat that deviates from the diet prescribed by the doctor. If need be, you'll have to 'force feed' your cat to take in more liquids. This can be done by using a dropper, and don't stop any medication or diet unless the doctor tells you to. Urinary tract infections in cats can recur, and if you're not providing the right kind of care to your recovering cat, you may find yourself back at the vet within two weeks.

2. Provide a stress-free environment. This means leaving it alone if it wants to be left alone. Explain to younger family members that your cat is still 'sick' and in recovery, and strenuous activities should be suspended until your kitty is back in perfect shape. Allow your cat to have a quiet place to rest, free from noise and other disturbances. It would be wise not to introduce new pets in the home at this time, as your cat is more susceptible to new diseases at this weakened state. New pets may also provide agitation to kitty, so wait until your cat is back to its old active self before bringing in a new companion.

3. Keep things clean and sanitized. There's a reason why hospitals keep everything around their patients 'clean' and 'sanitized.' The same should be true in a home with a recovering kitty. Make sure that there's fresh, clean water available to your cat at all times. And keep the litter box clean for it to be conducive for your cat's use.

4. Go back for check ups. It's great to see your cat slowly coming back to its old happy and healthy self. That means the treatment that your vet prescribed works, and that you've fulfilled your role as responsible cat owner. But even if your pet is getting stronger and better, it's good to return to the vet for check ups. You wouldn't want to go back to square one, or would you?

Urinary tract infections in cats can be easily addressed especially if detected early. Nurse your cat back to health by following the doctor's orders.

Urinary Tract Blockage in Cats - Four Ways to Nurse Your Cat Back to Health

To find out more about a well-researched, natural treatment for Urinary tract infection in pets, please visit pet-urinary-health.com Puneet Aggarwal is a regular writer on Pet problems and suggests natural alternatives. If you have any questions, you may visit his website.

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Dating for Dog Lovers

We dog lovers are a unique breed.

We have a language all of our own, consisting mostly of words like "sit, stay, come, leave it, down, off and NO!" We talk freely about poop and tolerate mud all over our kitchen floor.

I feel very lucky to be married to someone who loves and appreciates dogs as much as I do. But for all of you out there who are still looking for Mr. or Mrs. Right, why not consider "Dating for Dog Lovers".

Your dog will wag with pleasure when your date not only brings you flowers, but brings him a chew toy. Or even better maybe a new best four legged friend. And he may even get to go on some dates with you!

Whether you're looking for friendship or marriage, this site can hook you up with people just like you, dog people! Fill out the online form and find what you are looking for.

Dating for Dog Lovers

How to Care for a Cat in Heat

Female cats who are not spayed will come into heat eventually. Kittens as young as 4 months of age can experience this, although purebred varieties don't tend to come into heat until they are 6 months old or more. Heat is technically known as estrus. Unless your cat is a qualified breeder, it is best to spay her, rather than care for a cat in heat each time it happens. This will stop the uncomfortable heat cycles and prevent other medical issues. Unsprayed cats have a higher risk of cancer in their reproductive system. If spaying is not possible right away, your veterinarian might be able to give your cat hormones to stop the estrus.

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Some behavioral symptoms of a cat in estrus include the following:

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* Excessive time spent by your cat licking her genitals. Genital licking can also be a sign of a urinary tract infection.

* Loud vocalizing for a few days or until she finds a mate. The estrus howl is unlike other sounds she makes.

* Rolling around on her back.

* Trying hard to get outdoors (even if she is an indoor cat).

* Excessive affection shown by rubbing her hind quarters against you, stuffed toys, furniture and other cats.

A cat ready to mate will assume a mating position, which is forelegs bent, head down, rear quarters raised and her tail up and held aside. Her rear legs pad rhythmically on the floor, especially when you stroke her back.

How Often are Cats in Heat?

Cats are in heat for about a week in every 3 weeks between late winter and early spring. This continues for 9 months or more, until she mates. If she does not mate, she will be in heat more frequently until it is nearly constant. Once she mates or is spayed, these signs will cease. Mating triggers ovulation and cats mate several times to guarantee fertilization. If she is allowed to, she will mate with a variety of male cats over a period of several days.

To care for a cat in heat, you should ensure she remains indoors (unless you want her to become pregnant). Estrus is very tiring and stressful for cats. She might lose weight so make sure you feed her enough. Her temperament will be different. She might be irritable or lethargic. If she is irritable, give her space. If she is lethargic, make sure she has somewhere cool and comfortable to sleep. The only real way to help a cat in heat is to get her spayed.

Female cats can reenter estrus a few days after giving birth. If your cat has had kittens and you don't want more, you will need to schedule a prompt spaying operation for her with your veterinarian. Knowing how to care for a cat in heat is important and some basic care is possible. It is however a stressful time for her and also for you (with all the yowling and wailing!) so spaying is the best option unless you want kittens and, if you do, you should strongly consider spaying her immediately afterwards.

How to Care for a Cat in Heat

Thomas Kellerman is a caring and loving cat owner with more than 20 years experience in cat care and training. For more information in how to Care for A Cat In Heat or for Thomas Kellerman's Excellent free 10 part mini-course visit: http://www.OurCatSecrets.com

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