Why You Should Think About Adopting A Rescue Cat From An Animal Shelter

There are so many animals that are in desperate need of a loving home so if you have decided to get a cat, why not choose one from your local cat rescue home or animal shelter? By adopting from a shelter instead of buying from a pet shop, you help those animals that are most in need to find a home and help fund the rescue work so that other cats can be saved. Many of these felines have had difficult lives so far - they may have been abandoned, abused or neglected by their owners. So, responsible rescue centres will take special care to match owner and pet and find them a good home. They will give you as much information as possible about their charges' personalities and histories to help you choose wisely. At the animal shelter,use your power of observation. Take some time to just watch the cats and kittens without trying to interact with them. Observe how active they are and what type of attitude they have. A cat that stays huddled in a corner or appears lethargic may be sick, which could mean expensive vets bills in the future. Or the poor cat may nave been abused and so is terrified of everyone and everything. If you have the time and patience, please don't automatically dismiss an abused feline. They can repay your care many times over. Give the cat a thorough examination, starting with the eyes. Bright and clear eyes with no discharge or weepiness are a good sign. The nose should be clean and slightly moist.Again,there should be no discharge. Ears should also be clean. Those that are extremely dirty are potentially contaminated with ear mites which can be very difficult to eliminate and can easily spread to other cats at home. Finally, the cat’s fur should be clean, shiny, and free of fleas. Fleas can be particularly bothersome to both the cat and to the owner. Eliminating fleas once they infest the home can be very difficult. Listen to the cat. A cat that coughs, sneezes, or sounds congested can be quite ill and should be avoided. Also, listen for sounds of contentment. A cat who is purring is probably happy and healthy.A meow can indicate either trouble or contentment - a long, pleading meow could show that the cat is ill. On the other hand, a playful meow could mean the she is already developing a bond with its potential new owner! Watch how the cat plays. Some pet owners are looking for playful cats that will scamper about the house and chase and play with toys. Others would prefer a more docile cat who will spend hours cuddled up in the owner’s lap. See how they play with each other first to get a feeling for their disposition. This is particularly important for pet owners who already have a pet cat at home. Then play with the kitties yourself. Take out a string, ball of wool or car keys and dangle them in front of each cat. The one that seems most alert and active is likely the better choice. Of course, you could always take home more than one if the decision is just too hard to make It is so rewarding to adopt a cat from a cat rescue shelter and know that you have saved its life and given it a comfortable home but do be aware of potential problems. Any cat or kitten that comes from a shelter will be stressed to some level. This stress has put them at a higher risk of attracting a respiratory infection. They may also be more prone to bite or scratch you before you have bonded. Most cat rescue shelters offer a spayed or neutered cat, with full shots and de-worming but You must also get your cat tested immediately for feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV). finally,listen to the advice of the shelter workers and don't rush into any decisions. About the Author: For chats about cats and for more information on cats, cat care and cat care products, visit Tricia's website All About Cat Care at http://www.all-about-cat-care.com Read more articles by: Tricia Craggs Article Source: www.iSnare.com Share: Del.icio.us Google Y! MyWeb Digg

Dealing With A Cat Allergy

You are suspecting that you just might be allergic to your cat but there is no way that Fluffy is going to be moving out of your house. What to do? Dealing with a cat allergy can be accomplished with a little diligence. Finding out you are allergic to your cat can be heart breaking. There are a variety of symptoms that can occur such as sneezing, itchy watery eyes, runny nose, sinus infection, headache, and a host of other mild to moderate symptoms that if you are determined enough you can likely find some relief from and still keep Fluffy. But there are also situations that are severe and even life threatening which means you will have to find your cat a new home. Lets assume your cat allergy is one you can live with. So what to do? Let’s first have a look at some of the other symptoms that can be related to a cat allergy. The list is long – besides the symptoms already mentions other symptoms include eye infections, redness, swelling, itching, post nasal drip, hives, rashes, itchy skin, plugged or poping ears, hoarseness, and coughing. There may also be shortness of breath, wheezing, reoccurring bronchitis which increases during tasks such as grooming or cleaning the litter box. They may also increase when vacuuming or dusting which stirs up the dander. And often overlooked is that the allergy is actually not with the cat but with the perfumes used in cat products such as the litter. The cat allergy is caused buy allergens commonly the sebum produced by your cat. So it’s not the actual cat hair that causes the allergy but rather a protein that is in the dander and the tiny particles are easily moved around. So how do you deal with a cat allergy? There are several things you can try. HEPA filters are a great place to start. HEPA filters situated in each room of your home as well as a vacuum with a HEPA filter will certainly help reduce the allergens. Having your cat neutered or spayed can help your cat allergy because it reduces the sebum level that is produced. Replace carpets with flooring can make a big difference because carpet traps not only cat dander but dust mites, and a host of other allergy causing things. Bathe your cat regularly and cover your pillows and mattress with tight casings that can help. We spend half of our life sleeping so it makes sense to also keep the cat out of the bedroom. And of course you can also have the allergy shots that are designed to desensitize you. But wait! There are some natural remedies for dealing with a cat allergy and some are very effective. Seek out the help of a naturopath or do some research online. You can find several products that might be beneficial. First of all it is a well known fact that allergies including your cat allergy are a result of an immune system that is misfiring, so building your immune system and doing natural things to help bring your body into balance can also be very helpful. Don’t ignore the simple fixes when you are dealing with a cat allergy. Do it right and Fluffy will spend the rest of her days with you in a life of luxury! About the Author: Get all the latest information about Allergies from the only true source at http://www.1allergyinformation.com Be sure to check out our cat allergy pages. Read more articles by: Steve Johnson Article Source: www.iSnare.com Share: Del.icio.us Google Y! MyWeb Digg

The Easy Guide To Cat Ownership

While the title of this article may be a non sequitur, cat ownership doesn't have to be difficult. Cats are highly intelligent and can be trained to do tricks, and can provide years of wonderful companionship. Here is an easy guide to making the most out of your relationship with your cat. Cats are usually perceived as loners who do not need affection. This is not entirely true. They need affection, they just like to pick the times when they want it. This may mean that your cat decides that 4am is the best possible time for them to have their head scratched, but you can usually train them to respect your sleeping schedule. The key to a happy relationship with your cat is to accept their idiosyncrasies and learn to work within them. Cat nutrition is an area that is receiving more attention in the media. Cats by nature are carnivores and most brands of cat food include much more grain than meat products. This can create health problems for your cat, such as diabetes. If you are concerned about your cat's health, make sure to read the labels on their food. Try to find cat food's that contain more meat than grain, even if you have to moved to canned food. Although cats can be destructive, especially to your sofa, they can be trained to confine their scratching activities to "good" areas, such as their scratching post. While many people prefer to declaw their cats, this practice is becoming more reviled in certain circles. When the cat is declawed, they are essentially losing a knuckle of their toe joint, a prospect that is certainly painful. If you decide not to declaw your cat, frequently trim their nails to minimize the damage they can cause. Spaying and neutering cats is just as important as it is with dogs. Even though your cat may never leave your house, they are still at risk for certain problems that can arise if you do not have them spayed or neutered. Intact male cats are more likely to "spray" or mark their territory than cats who have been neutered. Owners of female cats can certainly attest to the fact that listening to a yowling cat in heat is not a pleasant event. One of the main issues with cat ownership is proper hygiene, particularly when it comes to the litter box. Once you have trained your cat to use the litter box, try to reinforce their behavior at least one a week to make sure they continue to use their box. Some cats will prefer an extremely clean box, while others couldn't care less. However, you could personally be at risk for disease if you don't keep your cat's litter box clean. Your cat may not appear to need as much love as a dog or other house pet, but don't let their cool facade fool you. They need you more than you know and with some boundaries, love and training, cats can be wonderful and giving companions. About the Author: Quality cat resources: all kinds of cool products like double-decker cat strollers, healing gemstone cat collars as well as cat behavior and pet loss experts who offer telephone consultations. Read more articles by: Brad Charles Article Source: www.iSnare.com Share: Del.icio.us Google Y! MyWeb Digg

Cat Behavior Problems - Which Of These Common Sources Could Be Contributing To Your Cat's Misbehavior?

If your cat displays problematic behavior, your instinctive reaction may be to increase your training efforts in hopes of changing it. Although cat training is an essential part of raising a well-behaved animal, many problems stem from causes that training will not resolve. Cat owners should understand that behavior problems may have other root causes and that addressing those triggers can be the key to stemming the problem. Misbehavior is not always related to shortcomings in training. Let us look at some common sources of cat behavior problems that might explain why your cat is having difficulties. Medical Issues In many instances, behavior problems are a direct outgrowth of a medical condition. When a cat is ill, it may behave inappropriately. If your cat begins to display a new problem, a change in temperament or seems to be “regressing” in terms of behavior, a trip to the veterinarian may be in order. If a new behavior problem appears, be certain to rule out a medical cause. Your pet’s unusual behavior may be its way of “telling you” it does not feel well. Social Issues Cats are social animals and changes in their social life can have an impact on behavior. The list of potential triggers for poor behavior in this category include introducing a new person or baby into the household, bringing a new pet into the home, or a change in an owner’s schedule or levels of interaction with the pet. Cats are also sensitive to changes in others behaviors and those alterations may result in problem behavior. If an owner is ill or is acting differently, a cat may respond with inappropriate actions. This may also occur if another household pet develops a sickness or changes its behavior considerably. Environmental Issues Cats are particularly attuned to their surroundings. They appreciate consistency in their environment and will frequently react to changes with misbehavior. Anything that changes a cat’s surroundings may have an impact on how it behaves. Obviously, a move to a new place can be stressful for a cat, but so can lesser environmental changes. Remodeling, new furniture, rearrangement of the home and other things we might see as unmitigated positives may distress your cat. If your cat is engaging in problematic behavior, it may justify a greater concentration on your training strategy. However, the problem may be spurred by something other than a lack of appropriate positive reinforcement. Many cat behavior problems can be directly linked to other internal and external factors that will need to be addressed in order for the behavior to subside. In some cases, intervention may be necessary (a veterinary examination, for instance). In other situations, the owner should positively encourage his or her pet while the animal grows accustomed to what it perceives as a bothersome change. After a period of adjustment, behavior may improve. About the Author: Get more information about solving your cat behavior problems today - visit http://www.secretsofcats.com Read more articles by: Liz Barton Article Source: www.iSnare.com Share: Del.icio.us Google Y! MyWeb Digg

Feline Flea Control Tips And Tricks That Every Cat Owner Should Know

No matter how meticulously clean you keep your cat, or how hard you work to prevent them, fleas are bound to make an appearance sooner or later. If you have never tried to convince your cat of the importance of flea dips, you are missing out a truly harrowing experience, let me tell you. Your cat will most likely want no part of what you are proposing, no matter how much you bribe or beg, and it will probably end in a major battle of wills and brute force, with you hopefully, being the winner. However, I do have some good news to share with you…..you don’t have to fight the battle of the feline flea dip anymore. There are several new flea control methods that are safer, and easier to use, so you and your cat can toss the flea dip out the window, and both of you can do the happy dance once again! Yes, you can still go the traditional feline flea control route, of using collars and shampoos, but there are still better, easier options out there. There are now flea control medications that you can give your feline friend one time a month, that work wonders on preventing fleas and other parasite infestations. You can give these medications to your cat by mouth, by injection (ouch!), or topically, however you prefer. No matter how you get it done, you must practice some form of feline flea control, if you love your cat. Fleas and other parasites can carry hundreds of deadly feline diseases; can cause tapeworms, infection, and even allergic reactions. Some animals who aren’t properly cared for have actually died due to massive blood loss caused by tick infestations. So, you can likely now see the importance of feline flea and parasite control, even if you didn’t think it was a big deal before. These new flea control medications work differently than those you may have used in the past. These medications actually kill the parasite on contact, meaning that it doesn’t have a chance to hang around on your cat and have parasite babies, as they often did with the old medications. Talk with your veterinarian about trying some of the new feline flea control medications, and discuss the risks and benefits of them before making a final decision. One of the new monthly flea control treatments doesn’t kill mature fleas, but can kill eggs before they hatch. This flea control medications uses a chemical called lufenuron, and can be used once a month if taken orally, and semi-annually if administered by the veterinarian in injection form. One disadvantage of this medication other than it not working on mature fleas is that it does nothing to protect your feline friend from ticks. Frontline, however, does have a feline formula that you apply directly to your cat’s fur, which kills both fleas and ticks, and prevents new infestations from occurring. The active ingredient in this feline flea control medication is fipronil. If you prefer topical feline flea control treatments, rather than those given by injection or orally, you might want to try Advantage. Advantage can be applied once a month, and will work regardless of how many baths your cat gets during that time. This flea control medication doesn’t work well against other parasites. The best feline flea control medication that works to prevent both flea and ticks infestations is Revolution. This medication comes in the form of a liquid that you apply directly onto your cat’s skin. This feline flea control not only kills and protects against fleas and ticks, but also can protect your cat from heartworms, hookworms, ear mites, and even roundworms. If you haven’t always done such a good job with feline flea control, your little feline friend may very well already be infested. If that is the case, you will never completely get rid of the fleas until you treat your home too, both inside and outside. You could always contact an exterminator, if you don’t want to deal with the problem yourself, but you can expect to pay a hefty sum for their services. To handle the problem on your own, purchase at least one flea fogger for each room of your home, and purchase flea spray for areas that are hard to reach, such as behind appliances or in corners. Vacuum everyday, so that you can get all of the eggs out of your carpets, preventing new hatchlings from re-infesting your home; change your vacuum bag after each use. If your cat has soft bedding or toys, they should be cleaned as well. To treat your yard, you can purchase special flea sprays that are environmentally safe, some even come in containers that hook onto your water hose, making it quick and easy to take care of those outdoor fleas, and protect your cat. It can be frustrating to get rid of fleas once your cat and home have been infested, but with patience and hard work, as well as a good flea control medication, your feline can be parasite free again! About the Author: Learn more about flea prevention and Holistic Pet Health at Natures Healthy Pet Read more articles by: Jean Morgan Article Source: www.iSnare.com Share: Del.icio.us Google Y! MyWeb Digg

Keeping Your Feline Friend Fresh With Pine Cat Litter

Cat litter has definitely provided a lot of pet and homeowners with so much convenience. Before cat lovers had to put up with the unbearable stench of cat urine and feces but thanks to cat litter, Pussy’s excrements are easy to eliminate and no longer as bad smelling. There are many different kinds and brands of cat litter in the market and one of the best of them all is pine cat litter. Cat litter is used as a filling material for cat litter boxes where house cats defecate or urinate. The cat litter is supposed to absorb the moisture and reduce the bad smell coming from urine and feces, making the litter box more bearable at home. Pine cat litter fulfills these roles remarkably well, making it one of the best choices as a litter box filler. There are different kinds of cat litter available in the market, allowing cat owners to choose from the wide variety according to their tastes and purposes. Some cat lovers choose cat litter for their odor control and absorbing power. Others choose cat litter that cannot easily be scattered all over the house. Some buy cat litter because they are biodegradable and environment friendly. Pine cat litter apparently can fulfill these considerations as it quite absorbent, track-resistant, and easy to dispose of. Pine cat litter is a very much recommended type of cat litter for all cat lovers everywhere. A lot of people who have tried other kinds of cat litter such as clay, silica, sand, have ended up using pine cat litter because of its many advantages. There were people who first doubted using pine cat litter, but eventually they realized that it probably is the best kind of cat litter available commercially. What Makes Pine Cat Litter So Good Pine cat litter is a very good choice among other kinds of cat litter. First of all, it is organic – a gift of Mother Nature. It comes from recycled materials and it is in itself recyclable. Pine cat litter comes from biodegradable pine sawdust, it can easily be flushed down your toilet in small amounts. It can also be mixed into your garden soil to be used as compost fertilizer, saving you the need to buy synthetic or commercial plant food. Pine cat litter also does not contain silica dust, unlike other types of cat litter like clay. Silica dust can be hazardous to health, and it would not be advisable to have them in products like cat litter. The dust particles can go airborne and be inhaled not only by your cat but other members of the family as well and this can cause a lot of problems in the lungs. When inhaled, silica dust can induce bronchitis or even lung cancer. It is not worth the risk to get these diseases just for a cheaper brand of cat litter. Pine cat litter would probably be a better choice for you and your cat in terms of health concerns. Some cat owners get worried that their cats would not welcome the switch from their old cat litter to pine cat litter. Pine cat litter may have a very different texture from other kinds of cat litter. It usually comes in pellet form unlike the softer texture of other types, which seems to be more comfortable for cats. However, cats are actually tougher than most people think and they can definitely withstand the rougher texture of pine cat litter. Some cats may even like the tough consistency better than the sandy and smooth grain of other cat litter types. Pine cat litter can be the best choice for you and your cat. It does most, if not everything that you would expect from an excellent cat litter. It is a good absorbent and deodorizer. It is easy to clean up and can even have other uses after consumption. It is safe for your health and that of your cat’s. Most of all, it is environment friendly, so you do not have to worry about contributing to the deterioration of the planet. The next time you buy cat litter for your feline friend, consider getting pine cat litter. It is good for you cat, good for you, and good for the planet. What more can you ask for? About the Author: Lee Dobbins writes for http://catlitter.topicgiant.com where you can learn more about cat litter, litter boxes and pine cat litter. Read more articles by: Lee Dobbins Article Source: www.iSnare.com Share: Del.icio.us Google Y! MyWeb Digg

Helping A New Cat Adjust To Your Home

If you are ready to welcome a new cat into your home, there are specific ways to make the transition easier, for you and the cat. Whether the cat is a rescued adult, or a brand new kitten, here are some tips to make your newest addition feel right at home. Before you bring your cat home, you will need to make sure that you don't have any house plants that are hazardous to your cat. Several common plants, such as hydrangeas, rhododendrons, poinsettias and philodendrons are poisonous to cats. If you are planning on letting your cat outside, there are many other outdoor plants that are also hazardous, such as lilies, clematis, elderberry, mushrooms and even rhubarb. Check with your local extension office for more information on locally indigenous plants that may also be harmful. One of the first items that you should purchase before bringing your cat home is a scratching post. Place it near furniture pieces such as couches, that cats normally like to scratch. This will help you train your cat to scratch where it is acceptable and can save you a lot of expense in the future. You can use training methods, such as positive reinforcement to quickly teach your cat that they shouldn't scratch your belongings. The placement of the litter box is very important. It should be in an area that will provide your cat with enough privacy, but it should still be able to be easily accessed by your cat. Make sure you place it in a well-ventilated area to cut down on offensive odors. It is important to keep your cat's litter very clean to avoid the risks of disease and to encourage your cat to use it. If you have other animals, you'll need to go through the process of introducing your newest arrival. Be prepared for some slight scuffles, this is perfectly normal. However, if your animals get into a severe fight, you will need to separate them. Try to introduce your new cat to the household gradually, and always monitor them during this time to cut down on the risk of injury. It may take your existing animals a few weeks to accept the new cat, but they will gradually warm up to them. In a multi-cat environment it is also important that each animal have their own food and water bowls. They may not follow your rules, but they'll at least have the option of using their own bowls. You may also need to feed your cats at separate times to reduce fights as your cats get to know one another. Your new cat may need some time alone to adjust to your house. Try to provide them with their own space, such as a bed in a quiet location, and give them plenty of soft toys to help them feel at home. The amount of time that it takes for your cat to adjust will depend on their individual personality. Try not to push them to accept new things too fast. Just give them time and they will get used to your routine. About the Author: Quality cat resouces - everything from cat behavior experts to cool double decker cat strollers. Read more articles by: Julie Wilson Article Source: www.iSnare.com Share: Del.icio.us Google Y! MyWeb Digg

Flushable Cat Litters : The Purrfect Solution In Litter-al Terms

Americans love cats. In fact, these regal creatures have invaded millions of homes across the country and currently number about 60 million. You've probably heard that people don’t choose cats - it's the other way around and with that in mind, we should be honored. It's just that with that honor and that unique companionship also come certain responsibilities -- like cleaning the nasty bits, for example. The solution? Flushable cat litter - a newer, friendlier alternative to the older, messier litter boxes. How they work Forget what you saw in that Ben Stiller-Robert de Niro movie. Cats may be trained to use toilets designed for humans, but very few have gotten around to perfect that flushing mechanism. Besides, training is a two-way process and not all cat owners can train their kitties to do as they wish. Automatic flushable cat litters may hold the answer, without driving a wedge between your cat and yourself. Automatic flushable cat litters are self-cleaning litter boxes that keep the cat box clean through the use of a raking system that gets rid of the solid waste by pushing it into a waste receptacle. A cat owner can then remove this plastic part and dispose of the waste easily. Some models even have an exit ramp that cleans the cat's paws to prevent them from leaving track marks. For the well-cared for cat, there's LitterFree (TM). Dubbed as the 'ultimate' cat litter box, LitterFree is a new design from Pet Food Express and takes cat litter boxes to a whole new level. The product is connected to the water and drainage system and cleans automatically using water to wash the wastes and flush them down the pipes. It also features a blower that dries the granules to prepare them for the next use. When the manufacturers labeled it 'flushable', they meant it. So if you want an innovative, worry-free cat litter box and are willing to spend more, this is for you. Instead of ordinary litter granules, those that are used in flushable cat litters are dust-free and washable. The problem of unpleasant odor is also corrected by the flushable cat litter's automatic system of treating the granules with a cleaning solution that both disinfects and deodorizes, ensuring that your kitty's little toilet is kept clean and fresh. No simple task Flushable cat litters are the result of years of design, engineering and testing, as evidenced by the company that produces LitterFree ™. The brand's distributing company sees the flushable cat litter box to become a regular household appliance much like washing machines and dryers. They are so serious with this vision that their product comes with a one-year warranty that covers both labor and parts. Flushable granules Not all flushable cat litters are automatic, however. Some brands are labeled flushable because of the materials used as granules to line the litter box. Elegant Cat ™, for example, uses water soluble granules that form a clump and once thrown into the toilet, will break into pieces. These pieces can then be flushed away conveniently. No more late night or early morning trips to the dumpster to get rid of bags containing used cat litter. Another brand, Feline Pine ™ uses biodegradable materials that provide odor control. The pine pellets will absorb the cat's urine and turn to sawdust so the only task you will have to perform is to get rid of cat poop. Another benefit of having urine turn to sawdust is that the material can be turned to compost and used in the garden. Some brands use materials such as natural chlorophyll or corn to control odor. The natural material is also safe and biodegradable, which is good news to eco-friendly pet owners. Unlike clay, these granules will not cling to the cat's hair and he's less likely to spread dust in the premises. Who should buy it? Everyone but the cat, of course. If you have a pet and lead a busy, active life, it can be quite a challenge to keep up with the sanitation. Flushable cat litters might just be the answer to your problems. It is also advantageous to people with physical limitations like the blind and the elderly, and may prove to be a boon to pregnant women or those with problems with their immune systems. Expect flushable cat litters to be priced higher than the more conventional types. However, paying a few dollars more for the convenience of easy cleaning and an odor-free environment is a small price to pay. The automatic flushable cat litter also costs in the vicinity of $300 but the steep price more than makes up for its function. Besides, most of these models come with a full warranty. It may also interest you that in preference tests, the more expensive self-cleaning cat litter boxes scored well with the cats. They're not really pushing to buy the more expensive box, but that's probably a hint right there. About the Author: Lee Dobbins writes for http://catlitter.topicgiant.com where you can learn more about cat litter such as the flushable cat litter. Read more articles by: Lee Dobbins Article Source: www.iSnare.com Share: Del.icio.us Google Y! MyWeb Digg

What Are The Characteristics Of Somali Cat?

The Somali is an intelligent playful cat and for those who like longhaired cats, this may be the breed for you. Somalis are descendants of the Abyssinian cat breed, and have a lot of similar traits. Abyssinian litters have seen the birth of longhair cats for many generations and in the 1960s, a Canadian breeder thought of coming up with a new breed from these kittens. He called it the Somali and their popularity spread fast to the United States and Europe. This breed was developed from the Abyssinian and they were known as the longhair Abyssinian. A very distinguishing feature of these cats is the markings on the face which are often described as heavy stage makeup. The eyes look like they have been outlined with kohl and around the dark ring there is a ring of light hair. So the effect is that of a cat with glasses. The body has a wedge shaped head with large ears, a well muscled body, a long bushy tail and very expressive eyes. This is one breed that can be found in colors like chocolate, red, blue, lilac, ruddy, sorrel, cream colors, fawn, with silver tabby patterns or tortoiseshell tabby. These are highly trainable cats that are happiest when they have something to play with. The toy can be a paper bag or some small toy. They can do all the things one would train dogs for, like fetch the paper, walk on a leash and come when called or they are just as happy to cuddle in your lap for the six o’ clock news. If you plan to be out for most of the day, then get a small companion for your Somali because a lonely Somali can get really unhappy. Grooming is a once a week affair as they have a medium length coat that needs a good brushing to keep it tangle free and unmatted and this is more so around the tail and the ruff around the neck as here the hair is the longest. If time is a problem, then get a short haired cat as a Somali with matted hair is not a happy Somali. These cats keep reasonably good health and the only thing to be aware of is that they may have a hairball problem occasionally. Check with your local vet for hairball control food. The Somali is a very family oriented cat and people who like cats will be very happy with these as pets as they make very good pets. There are breeds which are very good but don’t do very well when trained and kept in a home, but not Somalis. These intelligent and playful cats are just the right breed for a cat loving family. About the Author: George Adams is a staff writer at Pets Digest and is an occasional contributor to several other websites, including The Aquarium Expert. Read more articles by: George Adams Article Source: www.iSnare.com Share: Del.icio.us Google Y! MyWeb Digg

Successful Cat Training – 3 Rules To Follow

Cat training is not always easy, but it is possible. Though your cat may seem too independent and stubborn to change its behavior, you can get the job done if you make a commitment to the right strategies. There are a few basic tents of successful training about whichever cat owner should be aware. Let us look at three of those cat training fundamentals: The Need for Immediacy Cats are incredibly smart animals, but they do not necessarily make the same kind of connections people do with respect to cause and effect. That is why it is essential to take action immediately when you observe inappropriate behavior. If your response is delayed by even a few seconds, it will lose a great deal of its effectiveness. Never assume that your cat will remember what it did earlier in a day or that the cat will make any connection between your discipline and past behavior. Rarely, if ever, will that happen. If you correct your pet for something it did earlier, it will have no idea of why it is being corrected and may incorrectly link your actions to the behavior displayed immediately before you took action. Encouraging Alternative Behaviors One of the best ways to teach your cat not to engage in an undesirable behavior is to encourage the animal to do something else instead. This strategy works even better when the encouraged behavior is completely incompatible with the undesired action. This technique works because cats, like all animals, are more responsive to positive reinforcement. You will have greater success encouraging and rewarding what you would like to see than you will by trying to stop what you do not. Instead of discouraging your cat from scratching a table leg, encourage your pet to exercise that instinct on its scratching post! Avoiding Physical Discipline Physical punishment will not contribute to successful cat training. Negative reinforcements do not work well for cats and hitting or otherwise physically reprimanding your pet will only make your relationship more difficult while inspiring unnecessary fear in the animal. Cats are not always the easiest animals to train, but if one approaches the project with the right attitude and strategies, it is possible to direct a cat’s behavior. The three elements of cat training we’ve discussed all share features common to all successful techniques--they are all based on the understanding that positive reinforcement offers the greatest chance of success and that cat owners should always use the least aggressive means of correcting behavior. Those three rules of thumb are at the very core of smart cat training. About the Author: This article was written by Liz Barton. Learn more about how to solve your cat behavior problems - you'll find another cat training article by visiting http://www.secretsofcats.com/training_cats.html Read more articles by: Liz Barton Article Source: www.iSnare.com Share: Del.icio.us Google Y! MyWeb Digg

How To Help Your Cat With Arthritis

Cats can suffer from arthritis just as we humans do, and it mostly affects older cats. There might not be any cure (depending on the type of arthritis), but there are always treatments. Most cats are naturally exceptionally nimble and athletic animals, but as you might expect their joints, ligaments and bones are susceptible to accidental damage, and to the wear and tear of everyday life. On the other hand, giving thanks to their buoyancy, sense of balance, ability to land on their feet and built-in shock absorbers - their forelegs are not connected by bone to the rest of their skeleton, cats do not suffer from as many orthopaedic troubles as they might if they didn’t have all of these great qualities. Arthritis conditions in cats take place most generally as an end result of accidents. Cats can suffer from different kinds of arthritis, which plainly means joint inflammation. However, arthritis is much more compound than a simple inflammation, so this plain name is relatively confusing. For example, check out the wide range of signs of arthritis in cats: • Stiffness • Limping • Favoring One Limb (especially after resting) • Not Wanting to Climb Stairs or Jump • Noticeable Pain • Different Gait than Usual • Nervousness • Aggression • Depression If you notice more than one of these symptoms in your cat, you should make an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible. Usually, as the owner, you notice these things right away and know that something isn’t quite right. Causes Many things can cause arthritis in cats. Main reasons are old age, trauma, infections, immune system disorders and even developmental disorders. Cats most commonly suffer the following two forms of arthritis. One is traumatic Arthritis and this may be caused by a sudden injury to a joint, such as following a vehicle accident, the consequence of a fight or play with another cat or animal, or because of an awkward fall. The second is called osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is well thought-out by professionals to be the end result of a joint failure that can occur for nearly any reason. Cats’ shoulder and elbow joints are those most regularly pretentious in older cats. Common causes are repeated episodes of traumatic arthritis, and also joint dislocation or fractures involving joints that occurred in the past and made the joints more vulnerable to disproportionate wear and tear. What to Expect During Your Trip to the Vet Your vet will conduct a regular examination, and comments from you on your cat’s problems. Your vet might take some tests to rule out anything else such as blood tests, radiographs, ultrasound, etc. Treatments If your cat is diagnosed with arthritis, there are many treatments available. Some you can do at home such as gentle massage, weight control, exercise, and warmth. Some medications may be prescribed for your cat such as Glucosamine and Chondroitin, Corticosteroids, Vitamin C, and/or NSAIDs (Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs). There are numerous different kinds of joint diseases that your cat could have, too. These include: Feline progressive polyarthritis (which affects more than one joint) Dysplasia Bacterial Arthritis Oseoarthritis (Degenerative Joint Disease) Ruptured Anterior Cruciate Ligament Luxating Patella Hip Dysplasia Intervertabral Disc Disease Hyperparathyroidism Although most forms of arthritis has no cure to rid your feline of the disease, there are plenty of treatments available. Your cat can live out the rest of his or her life with less pain, more activity, and just being generally happier! About the Author: For more information on pet health visit Natures Healthy Pet Read more articles by: Jean Morgan Article Source: www.iSnare.com Share: Del.icio.us Google Y! MyWeb Digg

Solve Cat House Training Problems

One of the reasons why it tends to be difficult to solve house training/house soiling or litter box avoidance issues, is because you are the one who must identify the cause. The most difficult part of solving litter box avoidance problems is identifying the cause. Unfortunately, cats are extremely sensitive to change - and if your cat has been regularly using the litter box and then suddenly stopped, something has changed whether you are aware of it or not. So the goal is to figure out what's changed. Here are a couple of things to think about: The most important thing to consider when you need to figure out what has caused a house soiling problem is: WHEN did the problem start? 2nd most important: Are you certain it's not a health issue such as an Urinary Tract Infection? (The #1 symptom of an UTI is litter box avoidance) Other questions to consider that will help you figure out the cause: Did anything at all change near the time when the behavior started? (Try to think of everything, no matter how unimportant it seems) Have you moved to a new home recently? Did you recently introduce a new cat/dog/ferret/roommate into your house (or apartment)? Have any of the litter boxes been moved? (Maybe he or she tends to regularly use one certain box and that particular one has been moved) Did you rearrange or add any new furniture to your house? Are you 100% sure this cat is the one not using the box? Are any of your cats not getting along? Inter-cat disagreements are actually much harder to spot than most owners realize. Just because they aren't fighting doesn't mean they're getting along. One of your cat's may actually be "silently" intimidating one of the others, but you don't know how to read the signs so you aren't aware of it. If you're sure you know which cat isn't using the litter box, and you know which litter box that cat usually uses, keep an eye out to see if any of your other cats are spending extra time "hanging out" close to that box. If you have any covered litter boxes, pay special notice to any cats that have a tendency to sit on top of the litter box. One surefire method of retraining a stubborn cat is to keep the cat in a nearly empty room for a day or two, providing only a few toys, a scratching post, water, a bed and a litter box. Use this technique to house train your cat and don't allow free access to the rest of the house until the cat is completely retrained and no longer eliminates outside of the litter box. Some people think it's crazy when they realize just how many things can upset a cat's bathroom habits. What they don't realize is that elimination is actually a very complex and fragile part of a cat's life, and it can be easily disrupted. About the Author: Get more information about cat training today by visiting www.secretsofcats.com! Read more articles by: Liz Barton Article Source: www.iSnare.com Share: Del.icio.us Google Y! MyWeb Digg

Diet Tips For A Healthy Cat

Most of us know that feeding our cat is not really a chore at all. Dump the food in a big bowl or dish, and the cat will eat when it's ready. Unlike a dog, cats tend to not overeat and therefore are more easily manageable than most other house pets. However, we need to be careful when assuming that the food that we are feeding our cat, and the manner by which we feed our cat, are the best choices for our cat. Here are some tips on how to maintain a healthy diet for your kitty. Feed your cat based on their activity. Is your cat an active cat or does it to lay around the house all day waiting for its next meal? If your cat is overweight and not very active at all, leaving a bowl full of food is probably not the best idea. It is at this point that you should begin to manage how much you feed your cat, what you feed your cat, and how often. By taking charge of your cat's feeding habits, you will be able to increase the life and longevity of your cat by making this simple and easy choice. A simple "Here kitty kitty kitty" will make your overweight and hungry feline run for the bowl to eat your rationed healthy amount of cat food. Watch the weather! Simply put, the environment in which your animal lives directly affects and influences their energy needs. Extreme hot or cold weather can increases a pet's energy needs and drinking habits. Make sure that on hot days water is readily available and that you feed your cat more canned food then dry. The water content within the canned food will help the cat retain water if it is not able to get to the water dish on a regular basis. If the weather is cold, make sure that you are feeding your cat very nutritional cat food that is not full of filler so that your cat will have more of the necessary nutrients to digest to ensure that it stays healthy. Cat feeding times Although discussed previously, there is much more to say about having a specific feeding time for your cat. Not only does this allow you to feed your cat nutritional canned food, you will also know that it will not be left in the open. Preservatives are nice, but let’s not take any chances with the food left out. Also, by having specific feeding times, this allows you to monitor your cat's diet by providing the food at regular times. It is a kind of portion-control feeding, however, most cats will simply eat until they have what they need. Bottom line: keep a bowl full of a regular dry cat food and monitor the intake of canned food to ensure that your cat does not get overweight and is as healthy as it can be. Buy the best Though this sounds economically wrong, the truth of the matter is this: cheap cat food usually is cheap because of the added fillers that are put into the food. As a general rule, cats need a daily regimen of protein found in meat, fish, or poultry. They also need an essential amino acid called Taurine and various other vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids. If you have looked at a label for cat food, you will notice that wheat, rice, and even corn is used as filler for both canned and dry cat foods. Make sure that the cat food that you choose has the proper amounts of protein, vitamins, and minerals and not as much filler. The price of the cat food usually justifies its quality. And, as an added benefit, cats usually only eat as much as their bodies need. Therefore, your cat will probably eat less of the expensive of cat food because it contains more of the nutrients that it needs and not as much filler. Avoid food addictions Cats are said to be finicky animals. Whether this is true or not, cats have been known to develop a certain affinity toward particular brands and types of food. This could become a problem, especially if your cat develops a food allergy to certain ingredients and preservatives that may be contained within that cat food. In order to avoid this, it is recommended that early in a cat's life that it gets used to having different varieties of cat food and different flavors. This way, the cat is less likely to develop an affinity for a particular brand which may inevitably lead to the cat developing a food allergy because of the lack of variety in its daily diet. Overall, by avoiding cat food products that have chemical preservatives like BHA, cornmeal, and other carbohydrate fillers, you should be able to maintain your cat's health at an optimal level. About the Author: Nick Bulka operates a network of pet-related sites. For more great advice on cats, visit The Cat Tree Store and The Pet Guide Read more articles by: Nick Bulka Article Source: www.iSnare.com Share: Del.icio.us Google Y! MyWeb Digg