Adopting a Cat From a Shelter

Animal shelters bear the consequences of reckless breeding practices, the failure of pet owners to responsibly spay and neuter their pets and the heart-wrenching acts of neglect and abuse. In addition, abandoned pets and strays are taken in at a rate that often exhausts the capacity of the shelter. Reputable animal shelters deserve our attention and financial support.

It is advantageous for a cat lover to adopt a pet from a shelter. Shelters offer a wide array of companion pets for all sorts of individuals and families. While animals receive adequate care in a shelter, nothing compares to the everyday comforts of a warm and loving home.

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Adopting a cat at a shelter is the best possible way of ensuring the mutual satisfaction and love that both the pet owner and the pet deserve. In addition, cats in shelters have developed personalities that allow a person to more accurately choose one that will best suit one's lifestyle. It's tempting to want to start with a kitten. However, in addition to the unexpected inconvenience, chores and energy of dealing with a kitten, there's no guarantee that the ultimate personality will suit your lifestyle or home situation. Contrary to your first inclination, kittens are not the best choice for young children. A cat that is at least one year-old offers the best chance of giving a young child a positive experience with their first pet. Mature cats are much easier to care for, and more predictable in their behavior. Shelter workers are genuinely interested in helping you find the right cat for your personality, demeanor and home situation, and will assist in helping you make a wise decision and investment.

Adopting your cat from a shelter is also substantially more economical. A majority of shelter cats are of a mixed-breed, without the inherited health issues many times associated with particular full breed cats. Shelter cats are usually spayed, neutered and vaccinated. Special discounts are often available for spay or neuter programs if your cat is adopted at a young age. You can also adopt a set of cats that have bonded, or litter mates at a lower price. This is often a very rewarding experience that enhances the quality of life for the cats, as well as the companionship one ultimately enjoys. The price of adoption can vary. Certain shelters ask for approximately 0 for a cat, but it can be substantially less. In addition to spay and neutering, the adoption fee from a reputable shelter will usually include vaccinations for distemper and testing for both feline AIDS and feline leukemia. The average cost for feline AIDS and leukemia treatment is - for each disease. Spaying or neutering can run up a bill of - and vaccinations typically cost 0-0. Adopting a cat from a shelter not only relieves the burden of overcrowding that many shelters experience, but it's obviously the more cost effective choice.

If one is insistent about a particular breed, the selection at a shelter includes most every breed at one time or another. In addition, there are many organizations that specialize in the rescue and adoption of specific breeds. Most of these can be located online or by referral of your local shelter. The employees and volunteers of the shelter want what's best for the cat and will work together to help you find the best possible match.

Shelters are in special need during the spring and early fall seasons. These are the breeding seasons, and shelters are generally overrun with kittens that need homes. If you're an experienced cat owner, capable of the responsible ownership of a kitten, and committed to the life-long care of a cat of uncertain personality and health, a kitten can be a very rewarding and enjoyable experience.

To locate an adoption center in your area, check your phonebook or with a local veterinarian; or contact the Humane Association of the United States. Millions of cats who do not get adopted are humanely euthanized annually in the United States. By taking a feline companion into your home, you will be saving a life, and making room for other cats to have a chance of living a full life in a nurturing environment.

Remember: pet ownership is a life commitment. Consider the long-term care and expenses of the cat, and be willing to accept the difficult times as well as the memorable experiences and priceless companionship your cat will return to you.

Finally, support local and national shelters as well as the many organizations that provide badly needed services and ensure the humane treatment of our valuable animal friends.

Adopting a Cat From a Shelter

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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.

cat tree

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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Interesting Cat Breed Facts

Over time, cat breeds have evolved tremendously. Many, many years ago, domestic felines were primarily used for the purpose of keeping the rodent population under control. As time passed, they were bred to suit the needs of people, resulting in over 70 different breeds.

cat condo

What are some of the popular cat breeds that can be found in North America? The alley cat, Persian and Siamese cat are very common. Persian breeds are very lovable and popular among cat lovers, while the Siamese breed can be bad-tempered and loud. Either of these breeds are often very expensive to buy as well.

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The most common breed in the United States is the plain old alley cat. Although the name alley cat seems to fit the common stray roaming the streets, there are actually many different types. These cats are great pets and plentiful as they breed often. This fact poses an over population problem, especially alley cats in need of a good home.

A cat's appearance is the best method of determining what breed he may be. Some folks may go by color, although color isn't as simple to identify. Different breeds have a variety of looks, such as the Siamese and Persian cats. Siamese cats are usually black, and easy to identify by their color and eyes. Persian cats however, are easy to identify by their body structure and their hair.

Throughout history, many different cat breeds have come along. One of the first known pets, cats are also by far one of the most popular. Cat owners are in the millions all over the world, and many pet owners choose domestic felines over other pets. Cats are easy to care for and have their own unique personalities. It really doesn't matter too much which breed you decide on, with a cat as a pet you're going to have a wonderful friend for many years to come.

Interesting Cat Breed Facts

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Home Treatment For a Cat Urinary Tract Infection - A Simple, Natural Way to Treat and Prevent UTI

Contrary to popular opinion, prescription drugs are not the only solution for urinary problems in cats. Home treatment for cat urinary tract infection can be surprisingly effective. In this article, I am going to explain a simple yet effective way to treat and prevent urinary problems in cats. If you are a cat owner, this article is a must-read for you.

cataclysm

The need for natural treatment

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First, you need to understand the need for such a treatment. A lot of people are under the misconception that bacterial infections can be only treated with antibiotics. It is not true at all. Nine out of ten times, you can treat urinary problems in cats with the help of natural remedies. Prescription drugs are only needed in certain cases where the infection is severe and needs to be controlled quickly. Now that you know this, let me tell you about home treatment for cat urinary tract infection.

Food

You have to make sure you give your cat a well balanced diet. Avoid commercial pet food completely. It contains a lot of artificial substances that can affect the urine pH balance of your cat. It also affects your cat's immune system in the long run. So, start giving organic food that is free of chemicals and preservatives. This is the first step in home treatment for cat urinary tract infection.

Water

Dehydration is one of the main reasons why cats develop urinary problems. So, you need to make sure your cat drinks a lot of water. It is advisable to avoid tap water as it contains chemicals that could affect your cat's urine pH balance. So, get a good water filter and give your cat plenty of filtered water to drink.

Exercise

Physical exercise plays a vital role in home treatment for cat urinary tract infection. If your cat stays inactive all the time, it could develop a lot of health problems. Physical inactivity could also lead to stress and affect your cat's health adversely. Get some interactive toys for your cat to play with. Set up an obstacle course and let your cat enjoy the interactive exercise session. Get a multi tiered cat tree and let your cat enjoy jumping from one perch to another. Exercises like these not only stimulate your cat's urinary bladder, but also improve its overall health.

Grooming

Grooming also plays a role in home treatment for cat urinary tract infection. So, you should bathe your cat regularly. This is especially important if you have a female cat, as it has a short urethra through which bacteria can enter easily and cause an infection. So, use a mild cleansing shampoo and soap and bathe your cat on a regular basis.

Cleanliness

Clean your cat's litter box regularly. Cats are usually very finicky about cleanliness. So, your cat might not use the litter box unless it is clean. If it holds its urine in for too long, it increases the risk of urinary problems considerably. So, you should keep your cat's litter box clean so that your cat can use it whenever it wants to. This is an important thing you need to remember when it comes to home treatment for cat urinary tract infection.

Natural remedies

You should give high quality natural remedies to your cat. It is, simply put, one of the best ways to treat urinary problems in cats. These remedies maintain the right urine pH balance and make it impossible for bacteria to multiply. They cure urinary problems like incontinence, frequent urination, and bladder discomfort. They also boost your cat's immune system and make it healthier naturally. So, look for natural remedies that contain herbs like uva ursi, berberis vulg, and staphysagris and start giving a small dose to your cat every day. This is the final and the most important step in home treatment for cat urinary tract infection.

Home Treatment For a Cat Urinary Tract Infection - A Simple, Natural Way to Treat and Prevent UTI

Lois Lane is a passionate health researcher, always searching for natural ways to treat various ailments for herself and her pets. She has created a special resource called http://www.animalbladderinfectiontreatment.weebly.com, covering the natural ways to treat UTIs and promote bladder health in dogs and cats.

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Why You Should Spay Or Neuter Your Pet

It is very important to spay or neuter your pet for many, mean reasons. Some may be obvious, but some not so obvious.

Some people might get a cat or dog - pure bred or mixed breed - and think about breeding their pet for money, or other reasons. Even when dog or cat breeding is done "correctly," it is very costly, time consuming and emotionally draining. Whether breeding is done on purpose or by accident, a very large percentage of pregnant female dogs/cats and their puppies/kittens end up at kill shelters or suffer terrible consequences on the streets. 9 to 10 million animals are killed in shelters every year due to irresponsible breeding and "accidental" breeding - people not spaying and neutering their pets. Whether you have a very expensive pure bred dog/cat or a mixed breed, there is never a reason to breed him or her.

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If you are concerned with the cost of a spay or neuter, do not be. It is not that expensive to begin with, and the possible consequences of having an un-altered pet will be far more expensive than a simple spay or neuter surgery ever would. Certain areas in the United States actually offer free spay and neuter surgeries - so do some research to find out if you are in one of those lucky areas. There are also programs through rescue organizations that offer deeply discounted spays and neuters if there isn't a free option available in your area.

Another reason to spay or neuter your cat or dog is for good health reasons. Spaying and neutering greatly reduces your pet's risk of cancer as he or she gets older. There are cancer treatments for animals, but just like with humans they are not guaranteed, and they are very, very expensive. The risk of developing kidney and bladder infections is also reduced, as are uterine and pelvic infections for female pets. These are also not cheap to treat.

Dogs are less likely to stray from home if he or she is altered. When female dogs are in heat, they seek out male dogs. It is instinctive and if your female dog is to get loose, she will most likely be gone for days, if she returns at all. If she does come back, you will most certainly have a pregnant dog to deal with. Male dogs who aren't neutered tend to be more aggressive and temperamental - regardless of the breed or age.

Dogs that are altered are easier to house train. And who wouldn't want that? Neutered males are less likely to mark the furniture or anything else in the house and female dogs will not be leaving the "mess" from being in heat - smell included - all over your house for a minimum of 10 days, since she is spayed.

Lastly, and most importantly, you will help control the number of unwanted dogs and cats in the world who die every year in shelters, or by other means. An animal is euthanized every 3 seconds of every day. That is a sad, disturbing fact that stems from people not spaying or neutering their pets. By being responsible and altering your pet, you will be doing your part to end animal homelessness.

Why You Should Spay Or Neuter Your Pet

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Stop Cat Behavior Problems With "Complete Cat Training"

You Can Correct Your Cat's Behavior Problems

cat tower

Cat behavior problems can take away a lot of the joy of having a pet cat. And worst of all it can sometimes be very confusing on how you go about stopping those behavior problems. A lot of people are under the misconception that only dogs can be trained and that behavior problems with cats are impossible to fix but that's not true. You just need to know how to go about doing it.

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Common Cat Behavior Problems

Excessive meowing, whining, and/or howling. Aggression (towards people or other cats.) Jumping onto places he should not (such as a table.) Getting into the trash. Urinating or defecating somewhere besides the litter box. Biting & scratching. General disobedience.
The Solution

The "Complete Cat Training" guide explains in step by step detail exactly how to stop all of the above behavior issues (and others as well.) It also explains how you can train your cat to follow various commands. Yes, cats can be trained to do "tricks" just as dogs can. It's a misconception that cats are not trainable in this way.

Who Wrote "Complete Cat Training" ?

Paula Robb. Paula is an expert on cats. In specific she's an expert on cat obedience which is why the methods in her guide are so effective at stopping all cat behavior issues.

"Complete Cat Training" Features

Solve all cat behavior problems. Information on how to teach your cat to be more calm. This is great information if your cat tends to be very nervous and not very social. Info on how to stop territorial aggression. Instant online download.

Stop Cat Behavior Problems With "Complete Cat Training"

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How to Take Your Adopted Shelter Cat Home

Animals make lots of people happy. They give love, comfort, companionship, and company to their owners. Anyone who has any kind of pet knows how important they are to the family. You should spend time deciding on the right pet for you and your family, and when you decide to adopt a cat or kitten, remember that how you bring it home is just as important as the food and litter you choose to take care of it.

Adopted cats and kittens often need extra care. Because many of them were abandoned or abused (and sometimes both), they're afraid of anything outside their kennels, and anyone outside the shelter workers they know and trust. So when you bring home an adopted cat or kitten, special care has to be taken to make sure they're made comfortable and eased into a new environment. Before you bring your cat or kitten home, make sure you've already set up the litter pan and food and water dishes. That way, when your little one is brought into your home, it can find its food and litter right away, instead of waiting until you've set it up.

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It's also a good idea to have a few toys out and available for the cat or kitten before it's brought home. This will give the pet options for play right away, discouraging it from getting into something that may cause trouble, such as electric cords. When you bring home the cat or kitten, let it explore your home. Don't force it to play with you or sit on your lap. Though you're familiar with your home, your new pet isn't, and it needs to check things out and make sure it's safe before it feels comfortable enough to play.

Some cats or kittens may hide under the furniture for a while, and that's okay. Just be patient, and your new kitty will get used to you and your home, and will soon come out for attention. It's important to keep in mind your pet's background, if you know it. If your cat or kitten was abused, it may be afraid of people, so you need to be extra gentle when handling it, and use a soft voice when speaking to it, so as not to startle your cat or kitten. Try not to make any sudden movements, and let your pet adjust to you in its own time. If you don't know the background of your cat or kitten, you should err on the side of caution.

Every cat is different, so you shouldn't rush your pet into cuddling with you or playing with you. Let it adjust to being in a new place at its own pace, and before you know it, your pet will be following you around your home, begging for attention! Bringing home an adopted cat or kitten is an exciting experience, and as long as you know what to do to help make the transition smooth for you and your new pet, it can be a great memory!

How to Take Your Adopted Shelter Cat Home

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Origin and History of the House Cat

Formerly, it was carelessly thought that our house cats were simply the progeny of tamed pairs of the European wildcats; but anatomy has denied the probability of this and historical investigation shows that they came from another source. Historical evidence, which includes innumerable mummies, shows that the cat was domesticated by the Egyptians before the time of the oldest monuments of their civilization.

cat carrier

Moreover, the characteristic specific markings of the caffrc cat (still wild as well as tame in the Nile Valley) reappear unmistakably in our common house cats in spite of the fact that interbreeding with other species has intervened. A well-marked variety of this cat, known as the Mediterranean cat, was and is found in ancient times as well as now in Syria and eastward. It is established that many centuries before the Christian era the Egyptians, Cretans, Phoenicians and other men of the Levant were constantly voyaging all over the Mediterranean Sea. They were busy founding trading-posts on both its shores, where finally arose and spread the extensive civilizations of Greece and Rome on the north, and of Carthage on the south.

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With these colonists undoubtedly went their friendly and useful mousers. That they then were crossed somewhat with the native wildcat seems to be shown by the appearance of the peculiar form we call "tabby" cats. In brief, this is the history of the common European house cat and also those of America and most of the civilized world because of immigration. However, in the remote and isolated East exists races of domesticated cats of more local origin. Prof. G. Martorelli, of Milan, Italy, made a special study of this whole subject and he has concluded that the ordinary domestic cat of India has descended from the Indian desert cat.

From it, he says, are derived their common spotted breed, while the fulvous breed seen in India has been produced by a cross with the native jungle cat. Both these have interbred with the imported western cats in recent years. The Persian or ''Angora" long-haired breeds may probably have come from the Pallas' cat of central Asia; and the curious Siamese cat is regarded as derived from the golden cat. Whether accidentally or by the design of breeders, intermingling of these various species and races has produced the bewildering variety of forms now seen.

NOTE: This article is for information only. See your veterinarian for medical advice.

Origin and History of the House Cat

We plan to post articles that are informative and helpful to other cat lovers. Having been "owned" by cats for years, we know they can be demanding, but also be very entertaining and fun.

To visit our Blog Best House Cat Care

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Health Insurance For Pet Rabbits

Seems as if everything costs so much now days! We can barely afford to feed our family let alone provide for our animals. Medical bills can be devastating to the average family that does not have pet insurance, and having a cat, dog, bird, or rabbit become ill can mean the end of that pet's existence. It sounds harsh to say, but many simply cannot afford the huge expense of paying for veterinarian bills, and will opt to abandon that pet, drop it off at a shelter, or have the vet put the poor animal to sleep.

Rabbit lovers can now purchase rabbit health insurance to help cover the costs involved when that precious pet becomes ill. Policies vary but typically cover many of the costs involved in health care for your furry friends and pet rabbit insurance need not be expensive when you shop around and compare rabbit insurance through various companies.

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If a pet is ever diagnosed with cancer or another deadly disease, you will be grateful to know that pet insurance policy will help by paying many of the expenses involved. Just like people, these diseases can wipe out bank accounts in no time. Chemotherapy, radiation treatments, hospitalization, medications will each be covered in whole or in part by a good insurance policy for your pet.

Many pet rabbit insurance providers offer wellness plans which allow a set amount of expenses per year in preventative office visits and tests. These are aimed at prevention before an illness ever occurs, and saves money and heartache by stopping an illness before it begins.

Health Insurance For Pet Rabbits

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Edward Fresco is an expert author in the field of Pet Insurance

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO SPAY A CAT

The Challenges of Cat Grooming

Fortunately, cats are natural groomers. They clean themselves much of their waking hours. They are able to clean themselves by using their tongue and teeth. Long hair cats, however, have more difficulty in keeping themselves free of matted fur.

cat carrier

Grooming your cat may be one of the most difficult activities you ever pursue. The one thing you need to remember is that cats don't like being controlled. They want the control. To groom a cat, you need to try to be in control, so let the challenge begin.

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In your desire to win the fight, you will have to have a lot of patience. Your cat will also want to win the fight, so you cannot hurry this process. You can have success! Brushing is so necessary to whisk away those loose hairs. You will be able to sit on your chairs without having cat hair on your clothes. She will be able to walk by you and you won't have cat hairs cling to your clothes. Brushing can reduce much of her shedding, but not all of it.

Brushing and combing your cat will be considerably easier than bathing your cat. Starting your cat's grooming when your cat is a kitten is preferred and it will be to your advantage. Unfortunately you may not realize the need for grooming your cat until she becomes an adult. You may find that a 5 minute grooming procedure by brushing her will be the limit of your cat's patience. Be grateful she has allowed you to do this, and give yourself a gold star because you have just experienced success! This may be all the grooming your short or medium hair cat needs.

The real challenge begins with your lovable, long haired cat. Many long hair cats will have fine, silky hair and brushing will be easy. If, however, your Persian cat has cotton type fur and mats easily, grooming her will be much more difficult. This may be the time to consider a professional cat groomer. They not only know the tricks and have better techniques, they will be faster. Be aware, that there are some professional groomers that will not do cats.

If your cat has a very difficult mat in her fur, you can try to remove it yourself. Be extremely careful when using scissors or a professional shaver. You can nick or cut your cat's tender skin, and you will end up needing the services of a vet. I do not recommend that you attempt to remove severely matted fur. Ask your vet if he will do it or the recommendation for a cat groomer.

When you are trying to control your cat, one of their natural responses is biting. A cat bite can be very serious and should not be ignored. You may end up in the emergency room, be treated and released, or admitted to the hospital because of the infection. You will receive high doses of antibiotics. This bite can come from your house pet or a feral cat, both can cause an infection.

For the real challenge, give your special kitty a bath. Your kitty could become a raging tiger as you attempt to put her in water. Have a trial run by running some warm water in your tub or sink and put your cat into the container. You don't need to get her wet, but look for her reaction to the water. Chances are your kitty will bolt! Most cats do not like water. You may only want to bath your cat in extreme conditions such as when they have a flea infestation, a skin irritation, get into some car oil, or they are really dirty.

Patience is the key in grooming your cat whether you are just brushing her or attempting to give her a bath. When bathing, keep a plastic container near to use to rinse your kitty with the water. Do not fill the tub or sink with water, just have it gently running. She will not like getting cold, so gently pour the warm water over her often. Use only a cat shampoo and rinse her coat thoroughly, very thoroughly. Any left over shampoo may cause a skin irritation and she will lick her fur so she will digest the shampoo. Do not use human shampoo. It will dry her fur and eliminate her natural oils.

If your cat is really in need of a bath, you should consider seeking the help and service of a professional cat groomer. Your love for your cat will not be based on whether or not she lets your groom her, but that she is so forgiving and lovable to have around. A cat's purring is very peaceful. Petting her can be a very tranquil time for both of you. Cats are very special pets. We love our cats as I know you love yours.

Good luck in your grooming experience and may you have much success. Remember, you always have the option of calling on a specialist.

The Challenges of Cat Grooming

Lori Kniff loves cats and dogs. She has had a cat most of her life and several dogs. She is concerned with the health and welfare of our pets.
Please visit http://www.pawsitivepamperings.com for items that will help you show your love for your cat or dog.

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The Three Main Explanations for Cats That Spray, and What to Do About It

Cats that spray is one of the most common and notorious feline behaviour problems. There is a variety of possible causes and remedies. But prevention is even better.

Most cat owners will at some point face the issue of having to toilet train cats. When adopting young kittens this is the first thing to do. The reason is that it's easiest to litter train a cat while it's young. But this isn't always possible. For example, you might have to move from a place with outdoor access for you cat to one without it. This would bring up the issue of litter training an adult cat. This can be done successfully with just a little patience.

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On the other hand, sometimes a well-behaved cat will start avoiding its box.

Health:

As with any change in a cat's behaviour, a responsible owner should consult a vet immediately. Some of the possible medical causes are very serious, such as:

colitis
inflammatory bowel disease
diabetes mellitus
hyperthyroidism
kidney disease
liver disease
feline lower urinary tract disease
arthritis
anal sac disease

The discomfort and/or pain associated with such health problems can make the cat think that it's litter box is the cause. It will try to get relief by going elsewhere. Any treatment for the underlying health problem would automatically take care of the litter box problem too. On another note, a number of these diseases are quite advanced by the time a cat owner can notice anything. For that reason alone, no time should be lost in seeking veterinary treatment.

If a cat is an un-neutered male, he is most likely just marking his territory. (Females are less notorious, but they might also display the same behaviour.) Neutering should put a quick stop to the problem. On the other hand, if left for too long, a cat might just continue spraying out of habit, even after he's been neutered. Neutering (and spaying) also helps reduce the overpopulation and subsequent suffering of so many other cats.

Stress/Change:

If a cat suddenly starts "thinking outside the box" after moving into a new home, there might be more than one cause. Possibly there was feline resident there before. In that case the newcomer is just superimposing its own scent. Specialized enzyme based cleaners will dissolve both traces of the previous cat and the fresher urine. This is important because cats like to go back to the same spot if they can smell it.

Or it could simply be the stress of the actual move. Felines, just like humans, don't particularly enjoy the upheaval. One should also always make sure that the cat knows where the litter box is in the new place. A lot of affection and possibly some natural calming remedies can help a cat settle a lot more quickly. Again, removing all traces of urine is essential to preventing repeat performances. Other sources of stress can be the loss or addition of a partner or other family member, or of course a pet. In all of these cases affection and patience will go a long way.

Litter/ Litter Box:

The litter box itself and it's content can have a lot to do with a cat's rejection. Many of the fancier types of boxes are mainly created for the benefit of the human. Enclosed litter boxes might not only be awkward to use for some cats, but they can also trap and magnify odours. Regular cleaning is no less important with closed litter boxes, just because the human can't smell them from the outside. If anything it's even more important. Otherwise it's extra unpleasant for the cat and might provide an excuse for going elsewhere.

Similarly to box designs, scented types of cat litter might appeal more to the human than the cat. To a cat's refined sense of smell such artificial scents might just be overpowering and off-putting. It's recommended to try a few natural neutral types of litter instead. Usually at least one of them will be received much better.

On the other hand, the problem might not be any of the above. It could be just what happens to all of us when we see and smell a neglected public toilet. We'll give it a miss and go somewhere else. Even the most conscientious cat people might sometimes forget to clean out the litter box. Keeping on top of it can make all the difference.

Sometimes cats that spray might need a little refresher course. There are fairly extensive courses on how to litter train a cat. The basic concept is to shut the cat into a room with its clean litter box until it uses it. Sometimes a whole day or several sessions are required. Rewarding the correct behaviour will reinforce it in the cat's memory.

The Three Main Explanations for Cats That Spray, and What to Do About It

Amy L Watson owns Solve Cat Problems, under the pseudonym Kat Summers, and has over 20 years' experience in keeping cats. She is the main author of http://www.solvecatproblems.com/when-they-think-outside-the-box-cats-that-spray/, a site providing information on cat care and training.

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Costs Of Opening A Daycare

Any business has some start-up costs. Some businesses cost millions to start and are beyond the ability of regular people. But if you're considering starting your own daycare center, this is far from the case. In fact, a daycare center is very inexpensive to open. However, be aware that it does take some initial investment and it is this investment that determines the extent to which your daycare will be able to provide you with the most income.

What are the costs of opening a daycare?

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO SPAY A CAT

1. Permits - A daycare, like any business needs some permits such as a fire-safety permit, business license, and more permits that each state or county requires on its own. These permits usually cost a few dollars a year. This is far from expensive.

2. Insurance - Getting a business insurance is very important. The premium will cost some money, but a small daycare will need a small coverage and so will be asked to pay a small premium.

3. Toys, books, sleeping mats, and other accessories - Buying all the necessary equipment for your daycare will cost you some money, but these things are a one time fee purchases which will serve you for a long time. All these things shouldn't cost more than a few hundred dollars. You may be able to get by with 200-300 dollars or even less.

4. Set-up costs - When you start the process of establishing your daycare, you will have to spend a little on getting the forms and permits and learning what you need. You can do that in a couple of ways: spend around 30$ on an expert start-up guide which will teach you practically everything you need to know, or do the research yourself which will cost you in phone calls, commuting to government offices and spending hours in front of the computer.

All the costs of starting a daycare are very little in comparison to the money-making potential in this business. It's a great opportunity.

Costs Of Opening A Daycare

To learn more on how to start and run a highly successful Daycare Center, click here: Starting A DayCare Center Lucy Doyle runs a home business and is an expert on starting successful daycare centers. To read how you can too become a successful businesswoman by starting your own profitable daycare visit Lucy Doyle's expert webpage on starting daycare centers at this dedicated webpage: http://www.squidoo.com/startingadaycare

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO SPAY A CAT

What to Do If You See a Stray Cat and Want to Take it to a Shelter

Every town has them... stray cats, wandering around back yards, alleys, walking down the road, robbing trash receptacles or other yard-pets' bowls in order to survive.

While most people tend to look past these lost souls, assuming they either live with someone or don't deserve a moment's thought because they are pests, there are others who feel differently. Some people understand that stray cats aren't being stray on purpose just to irritate humans. They have been abandoned, perhaps, or were born to a stray that was abandoned.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO SPAY A CAT

The reasons for their existence vary, but it's probably safe to say their fate has been created by humans. Therefore, it should be up to us to remedy the situation and to tend to the needs of these cats.

For those who sympathize with these homeless ones, it can be heart wrenching to watch them suffer. Many sensitive, caring people want to help, but may not know how to do it.

The first consideration has to be your own safety. Often, even if a cat started out as a loved family companion, it can still transform into a fearful or aggressive animal who must go into "survival mode" to live in a hostile world. You may not be able to simply reach down and pick the cat up. Why would a cat that has been treated badly trust you? How would it understand that you mean it no harm when everyone else has been cruel or abusive? Such a cat might not be friendly and you must take precautions.

If you are willing to follow through with a rescue, there must be some careful and thoughtful planning.

1. Obtain a humane trap. If your community has a shelter, humane society, animal control department, or a veterinarian who works with rescues, you might be able to borrow one. This is the preferred way to capture a cat you don't know, even if it seems friendly.

2. If the cat actually comes to you, and allows you to touch it, you might get lucky and be able to place it carefully into a pet taxi, or pet carrier.

However, if the cat freaks out and scrambles away, you may never get another chance to try again. You might also suffer a scratch or a bite at this point. This must be avoided. If you don't know whether the cat has been vaccinated, you will have to endure a rabies vaccination series, and local authorities will have to trap the cat and have it tested. Since a rabies test cannot be done on a live animal, it means sacrificing its life to learn if rabies is present.

3. Once captured, you should take the cat to a veterinarian as soon as possible for a wellness check and to obtain any health care needed, along with some basic vaccinations.

4. If you take the cat to a shelter immediately, they will have to handle the expense of this step... if they have the money. Sadly, many rescue organizations and shelters have little funding and some exist on donations alone. If there is nothing in the budget for this care, the cat most likely will have to be euthanized. If you don't plan to keep the cat yourself, perhaps the kindest thing you can do is to donate enough to help the shelter provide the cat's initial care. Depending on where you live, the cost to get a cat "fully vetted" (shelter lingo for obtaining veterinary and other care to be sure the cat is healthy and adoptable), can amount to 0 - 0.

5. If you are not prepared to take responsibility for rescuing a stray cat, you may be able to help it by alerting a local rescue group to its plight. They may be able to trap and care for the cat if they can afford it and have the personnel, or, perhaps include it in a managed feral cat colony to be sure it has food and health care.

The most important thing people of any community can do to help stray cats, and to prevent more of them, is to get them spayed and neutered.

If your community does not have a Trap Neuter Release program or a low cost spay/neuter clinic, form or join a group to request these services be provided. Remember, your government exists to serve you, not to push you around.

What to Do If You See a Stray Cat and Want to Take it to a Shelter

For more information on how to help cats in your community, visit http://www.theproblemcat.com

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Outdoor Cat Enclosures - How to Safely Keep a Cat in the Backyard

Most cat experts will tell you that it is best to keep a pet cat indoors. It's a fact that indoor cats will live three to five times as long inside as their outdoor counterparts. Outdoor cats tend to not live as long due to predators, famine, disease, busy roads and inclement weather.

cat condo

The problem is that many indoor cats spend their entire lives wanting and needing to get outdoors. They want to enjoy the sun, eat the grass, chase insects and enjoy the outside air. Many cat owners nowadays are looking for a way to give their cat the best of both worlds.

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Many owners are now turning to outdoor cat enclosures which allow cats to enjoy the outside world, while still being protected from those items mentioned earlier that can reduce life expectancy. These cat enclosures allow felines to bask in the sun, get much needed exercise, eat grass which helps their digestive systems and just get a breath of fresh air.

These outdoor feline enclosures are typically made from fencing materials or wire and come in a variety of sizes and shapes. They can be used in backyard of almost any size, a deck or patio and some area even made to install on a window sill.

Pricing for these enclosure systems tend to run somewhere in the 0-0 range, depending on the size and features you want. For a single cat though, you should be able to find a unit for under 0 that your cat will love.

Using an enclosure system to protect your kitty is like getting the best of both worlds for your cat. It gets to benefit from the long life expectancy of indoor cats while also getting to enjoy some time outside to do what cats do.

Outdoor Cat Enclosures - How to Safely Keep a Cat in the Backyard

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Guinea Pig - A First Pet?

Is a Guinea Pig a Good Starter Pet? In answer to this question. No. A guinea pig is NOT a good starter pet. They require a lot of attention, maintenance, and exercise. They get sick easily an need constant awareness. If you are looking for a first pet for your child, a dog, or cat would be a much better choice. Guinea pigs can become ill very easily and very quickly. Most illnesses can kill them if they are not treated by a vet right away. This can cost a lot of money. A child should only have a guinea pig once they are responsible enough with other pets to take on the work and extra responsibility.

When buying a first pet for your child, you want to find a stable animal that doesn't require so much work. Otherwise the work will disinterest the child and they will give up, not to mention the pain and suffering the animal will go through when their owner doesn't care for them properly. Contrary to popular belief, Guinea Pigs are not just cage pets. They need to be able to be let out of the enclosed space of their cage frequently and have a safe place to roam and play.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO SPAY A CAT

While they do eat a lot and love eating, many foods can cause harm to them. As I've said in other pages. Another reason a guinea pig does not make a good starter pet, guinea pigs need to be handled gently and with extreme care. A young child will try to rough house and jump around with their pet, this will terrify the poor thing and make cause injury or illness from fear as a guinea pig may stop eating if he or she is too afraid. Guinea Pigs require some special treatment in order to keep them healthy. Such as that you should NEVER use a cage with a mesh wire bottom. This may be easier to clean but it can hurt your piggy's sensitive feet badly and result in severe injury if not caught.

Guinea Pig - A First Pet?

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO SPAY A CAT

How Can I Stop My Cat From Spraying?

Why do cats spray? To understand this problem, you need to think like your kitty. When a cat sprays walls, furniture, the floor, or even his owner's clothes or bedding, he's telling other felines that this is "his" territory. This is called "territorial marking," or "urine marking," and it's a normal behavior for both males and females.

Most urine marking problems can be avoided by having your feline friend neutered or spayed before he or she is six months old. If your furry friend is already showing this behavior, neutering or spaying will stop the problem in 90% of males, and 95% of females, no matter how old your kitty is, or how long he's been doing it.

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A feline who suddenly starts spraying for no apparent reason is stressed over something. The first thing you should do is check on your kitty's litter box situation. Have you changed your brand of litter lately? If you just started using a perfumed litter, that could be causing the problem. Is his box clean? Is it too noisy and busy around his box? Kitties are like people; they like a quiet private area when going to the bathroom.

The next step is to have your fur-ball checked by the vet. Sometimes health issues can cause your furry friend to start spraying.

If all is well on the litter box and health fronts, then it's time for some detective work. Your little friend is a creature of habit who doesn't like changes. Anything that threatens his territory can cause him to start marking it. Have you added a person or animal to your household? Perhaps your work schedule has changed, or you're away from home more. Have you remodeled your house or moved recently?

Can your little buddy see another cat outside? If he can, he may mark his territory by spraying, even though the other kitty can't smell it. Sometimes even the scent of another cat on a visitor's clothes may set off a territorial response.

To solve the spraying problem, you need to reduce your furry friend's exposure to the stressful situation. Close the curtains so your little friend can't see outside. Try to keep the stranger out of your yard. Clean up any urine around doors and windows, both inside and out. If there's tension between your fur-balls, you may need to separate them for a few days and then re-introduce them. Be sure each kitty has his own litter box. Sometimes, if you have too many cats, it can cause territorial issues. In this case, hard as it is, you may need to find new homes for some of them.

If you've just moved, keep your kitty in one room for a few days. He needs familiar things around him, including his food and water dishes, his favorite pillow, and his litter pan. Give him lots of extra love and attention, and he should settle in within a few days.

When your fur-ball rubs his head on you, he's "marking" you with his pheromones. You can make "friendly zones" for your buddy by using his own pheromones. Rub your cat gently with a soft cloth between his eye and his ear. Then wipe the cloth on the place he's spraying (after you clean it with an enzymatic cleaner). Do this every day for several weeks. You can also put a scratching post in an area he's sprayed in the past so that he'll mark it with the scent on his pads, instead of with urine.

Think like your cat, and you can end most urine marking problems.

How Can I Stop My Cat From Spraying?

Darlene L. Norris invites you to read How Can I Get My Cat To Use The Litterbox? for the solution to your litter box problems.

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What Is a Real Cost of Owning a Bengal Cat?

One very important aspect to consider in buying a Bengal cat is its actual cost. Well, if you want to have a Bengal in your home, you should very well know that it is a rare breed. With rarity comes the high price, so you should expect that a Bengal cat could cost from 500 USD to about 5,000 USD, depending on what Bengal quality you prefer.

As you know, there are three main types of Bengals-pet quality, breeder quality, and show quality. Pet quality Bengals cost 500-1,000 USD while a breeder or show quality Bengal could cost from 1,500-5,000 USD (show Bengals may be more expensive depending on the breeder).

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Aside from the actual purchase of the Bengal, you should also take note of the basic expenses in keeping or maintaining it. Here are some considerations so that you may have an idea of how much a Bengal could cost:

Micro-chipping

Micro-chipping is very important for the identification of your Bengal. It really makes a difference especially if you lose your cat by chance. Embedding a microchip into your cat can cost you 50 USD.

Sterilization (spaying/neutering)

On the other hand, sterilization of your Bengal cat can cost you basically 100 USD if you want it done n your healthy kitten. Sterilizing your Bengal can cost up to 200 USD if your cat has complications.

Food

The price of the breeder cat food changes from time to time, depending on the price of raw materials. You should keep yourself updated with the price variations in your local grocery store.

Medical care

Vet care and vaccines should be considered as well. Work with your veterinarian for the payment methods that you can avail of (health insurance). This may also include possible emergency care, hospitalization, supplements, and other medications. This is a very important factor in determining how much a Bengal can cost. Vaccinations cost 50-70 USD, while flea and de-worming medications cost 20 USD.

Insurance

Insuring your Bengal cat could really help you from the total medical cost to getting you reunited with your Bengal (if ever you lost it). Including this in your Bengal budget is a must. Bengal cat insurance can cost 30 USD monthly.

Grooming and training equipment

You should have these to make sure that your Bengal keeps clean and learns proper behavior, especially in the toilet. Having a clean and well-trained Bengal can cost a lot but it will definitely be worth it. Grooming and training your Bengal cat can cost 20 USD.

The amount of money needed in acquiring a Bengal cat also depends on where you are going to get your Bengal. If you decide to get your cat from a reputable breeder, you should be preparing a bigger amount. However, if you are going to get your Bengal cat from a rescue center, it will only cost you much less because you will be adopting the cat. Nevertheless, you should still consider the expenses in keeping your Bengal cat.

What Is a Real Cost of Owning a Bengal Cat?

Visit www.yourbengalcat.com to find out about other things that affect Bengal cat price.

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Helpful Tips About Cats - Is Your Cat in Heat?

Have you recently adopted a female cat that is keeping you awake at night? Is she displaying some really odd behavior? Such as excessive howling or calling, or does she seem agitated. It may even seem like she has an excessive amount of energy. Or she may be rubbing her body on the floor or walls, in a way that is different than her normal behavior. Or she may be licking herself more often than usual.

These are all likely symptoms that your female feline friend is coming into "heat" or medically know as oestrus. Although she's likely keeping you awake at night, you can rest assured it's totally natural. Okay, I know what you're thinking, natural or not, you need to sleep and you want her to calm down! Not to mention what do the neighbors think, especially if you live in an apartment like we do.

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Rest assured there a few simple things you can do to help her. The only permanent way to prevent her from coming into "heat" is to have your veterinarian spay or fix her. This is a good idea for a variety of health related reasons. But in the meantime there are some simple techniques to calm her down, that may work for you and your cat.

One technique that worked for us, was to simply keep her busy, by playing with her more. String and rolled tin-foil balls never seemed so helpful! (even if it was at 2:00 in the morning) It just seemed like it took her mind off her loud meowing. Another technique that might work for you is, to brush her a lot. She may not normally like this, but most cats in heat seem to love it. Perhaps it helps to scratch that unscratch-able itch. The important lesson in all of this, is to get to know your cat and to understand your cat's behavior.

Helpful Tips About Cats - Is Your Cat in Heat?

The more you understand about your cat, the more you'll enjoy each other. My advise to you is to read as much as you can about cat behavior, and find yourselves a good friendly veterinarian that you both like. Find out right now some other helpful information about cat behavior that will help you enjoy your feline friend more.

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Cat Lovers Guide to Dating

Spring has sprung and summer is just a stone's throw away and the air is filled with possibilities of meeting a new someone to date.

Dog owners seem to have the least amount of problems dating than true cat lovers.

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Why?

Most people readily accept dogs as family members.

Whereas, many people (especially men) consider cats sneaky and smelly.

Sneaky, cats are not; smelly, blame the owners.

If you are a cat owner entering the dating arena, there are a few important things you need to consider.

Odors are the worst offenders in any relationship, be it personal odors or pet odors, both have to go.

Your home is a personal expression of you.

You can come across as someone with good taste and style that has a cat or you can present a picture of someone that has a cat and does not care who knows it by its smell.

Housekeeping is essential if you have a pet, be it cat or dog, but extremely important if you have an indoor cat and of course, a litter box.

Keeping the litter box clean is vital, not only does it keep odor out, it keeps your cat happy, too. Scooping out the box twice a day, and when the deposit is especially smelly, does not require much effort.

Doing this keeps odors at a minimum.

Cat hair on everything is another picky point. I know you can't be well dressed without cat hair, but some men/women seem to hate wearing it.

So, what's a girl/guy to do?

Brushing kitty helps, using a mini-vac is a great idea on the furniture or a sticky tape roller is good. When there are no guests are around use a sheet on the sofa to collect kitty's hair.

Many people are offended to see a cat walking all over the counters, tables and everywhere else.

I currently have only 3 cats, but our household has had as many as 6 cats at one time and I can honestly say none have ever been counter or table walkers.

Why?

The first time the first one tried it, I calmly picked it up and put it on the floor with a "good loud NO" and after two or three times, that was it.

Somehow the word got out to the others, as they came along and no one has ever jumped on the counter or table, since that first time.

Therefore, I know you can teach your precious baby not to do it, too.

Remember nothing happens unless you put forth some effort.

If you have a cat that is spraying around the house, my first question is, have you had it neutered or spayed?

It matters not, that your cat is an indoor cat, spaying or neutering is extremely important. Not only will the spraying stop, but your cat will be healthier.

Granted a neutered or spayed cat will spray if under stress, but you can help reduce the stress by using a product called Feliway. It comes in a spray or a plug-in diffuser.

Feliway is also recommended for litter box problems, as long as the problem is not an "unclean litter box" or a medical problem. For more information you can search the Internet.

If you have taken all the things I have discussed under consideration, your home should not "smell."

The next thing to consider is what I call "dating etiquette."

Dating someone for the first time is a thrilling and scary experience at best, but it is rather important that you mention you have a cat or cats early on in the beginning of the relationship (date.)

Why?

Well, many men and women too, have allergic reactions to cats (or so they say.)

My feeling is if you are a true blue "love me, love my cat(s) person it is best to get it out in the open as quickly as possible in order to survey the situation.

In solving allergy problems, I am not an authority, but there are ways and means to combat allergies, if the situation warrants it. However, the person just may not like cats or is afraid of cats and it is important to know that early on so you (they) can decide what the alternatives are if any.

Many anti-cat people have been converted to pro-cat people, however you as the cat person have to be willing to compromise.

Keep in mind that when you find a compatible relationship, it is worth extra effort to find a way to compromise and have the situation work.

In the days gone by we used to say "a good man/woman is hard to find," so I say when you find that good one, do whatever it takes to make the relationship work.

There is no reason that you, kitty and that wonderful person cannot make beautiful music together.

Cat Lovers Guide to Dating

Keeping our pets healthy is very beneficial not only to the pet, but to our pocketbooks. If the only time you need to visit the veterinarian is for yearly check ups and necessary shots you are saving money. Nutrition is very important in keeping a dog healthy, proper quality food that contains all the necessary vitamins and minerals is a good way to start. If this article has been of benefit, please visit my web site and blog at http://www.cats-and-dogs-on-the-web.com

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO SPAY A CAT

Kitten Bad Breath

Kitten bad breath is not a common problem for new kitten owners, but some people do find that their kittens breath smells bad. Not surprisingly, bad breath in cats and kittens can be caused by the same things that cause halitosis in humans - gum or dental problems, respiratory problems, or underlying disease. There are also a few things particular to cats that can cause an unpleasant odor on the breath.

Feline bad breath is often caused by tartar build up on the teeth. Just like in dogs and humans, tartar on the teeth fosters the growth of oral bacteria that produce volatile sulfur compounds, airborne molecules that smell very unpleasant. Although tartar has not generally had time to accumulate enough to cause kitten bad breath, you should check the condition of your kitten's teeth and gums to be sure there is no tartar or inflammation there. If you see signs of trouble, a trip to the vet is probably in order.

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Respiratory problems can also be a cause of kitten bad breath. This is usually easy to pinpoint because it will be accompanied by signs of respiratory illness. Again, like humans and dogs, cats can get viral or bacterial infections of the nasal passages, throat and lungs. In turn these infections can encourage the growth of bacteria and may cause feline bad breath. If your cat has a respiratory infection accompanied by bad breath, the breath problem should resolve as soon as the cat recovers.

Another unusual cause of feline bad breath can be underlying illness - some metabolic disorders and organ problems such as kidney disease can cause an unusual odor on the breath. In most cases, the odor will not the typical sulfur smell of classic halitosis, but may still be quite unpleasant. A kitten bad breath problem that can't be attributed to any other common cause may be a sign that your kitten has a more serious problem that should immediately be assessed by a vet.

One cause of feline bad breath that is particular to cats is feline acne. If your cat has feline acne, you will see black specks or bumps on the cat's chin. These black spots are a buildup of secretions from the animal's glands, and the affected area can also be a site for the proliferation of colonizing bacteria. This unhealthy area can be the source of an unpleasant odor around the mouth, so part of your search for the cause of kitten bad breath should be an examination of your cat's chin. Feline acne can be treated with disinfectants: consult your vet for professional advice.

Kitten Bad Breath

R. Drysdale is a freelance writer with more than 25 years experience as a health care professional. She is a contributing editor to Bad Breath, a blog dedicated to the treatment of bad breath.

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Choosing A Cat

Before you decide you want a cat or even before you buy a cat take a good look at the other pet information on the internet. You may change your mind and discover that a different pet would better suit your lifestyle. If you have read about other pets and still want a cat read on. When choosing a cat there are a few questions you need to ask yourself and/or family members.

1)Do I want a male or female cat? Generally male cats are more aggressive than female cats and they hunt more. Female cats are more playful and affectionate but have a chance of getting pregnant by a male cat. If you do not want a rough and aggressive cat and don't want a litter of kittens there is always the option of spaying your cat. It is a good idea to spay (female) or neuter (male) your cat not just to prevent pregnancy but they tend to fight less, they are more affectionate and they do not get obese and lazy. The procedure can be done at a pet hospital or most vegetarians and it costs around for a female cat and for a male cat (note that these prices are in American dollars and can vary from pet hospital or veterinarian).

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2)What breed of cat do I want? Cats are placed in two categories, long haired or short haired. Long haired cats require much more work cleaning up hair and brushing and grooming your cat. There are hundreds of different breeds of cats not including crossbreeds also known as mongrels. For more information about cat breeds ask your local vet or pet shop and they will give you all the information you desire. It all depends on what is available in your local area.

I would recommend to do some research and come up with a list of preferred breeds. To find out what breeds are available in your area check with your local pet shop, look in your local newspaper in the classifieds section, check your local pet shelter and ask your friends and neighbours if they could recommend anyone. When you visit your local pet shop don't just look at what the pet shop offer, ask the pet shop manager if they know anyone who breeds cats or look on the noticeboard for advertisements.

3)Do I want a adult cat or a kitten? A kitten is another name for a baby cat. The advantages of buying a kitten are that you can watch it grow, it will bond with you and family members better and the most obvious it will be a part of your family for a longer period of time. You guessed right with these advantages also comes many disadvantages including that they are very playful, you have to train them and teach them wrong from right, they do not have set eating patterns so they can overeat and become sick, they can be destructive to furnishings, carpet, curtains etc and last and defiantly not least they need to be toilet trained.

The advantages of buying an adult cat is obviously the opposite of the disadvantages for kittens and the disadvantage is that you don't know how the cat has been looked after. This can cause the cat to develop a wild instinct and become very aggressive. If you don't know how the cat has been treated you should not buy it. On the other hand if you do not have the time or patience to raise kitten you could either buy an adult cat or buy a kitten and get someone to look after it while you are away.

Cats can be a great pet for anyone because they are very adaptable and can live almost anywhere and would even live happily, healthy and comfortably in a small apartment. Cats are very affectionate, playful and loyal to people of all ages, to many people a cat makes the perfect pet.

Choosing A Cat

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Getting Ready to Adopt a New Kitty?

Going to adopt a new feline friend? Do you have everything you need before kitty arrives? Have you cat proofed your home for the new arrival?

There are many things to consider before adopting a new cat. Some of the necessities are cat litter, litter pan and scoop, food and water bowls, food formulated for the age and health of your cat, cat furniture and lots of toys. Consider as well, that your cat will need regular vet visits and spaying or neutering is an expense that is a must.

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Let's start at the beginning. When bringing a new cat into your home (especially a kitten), take a look around your home from a cats point of view. Dangling electric cords, toxic plants, and delicate collectibles should be removed before your new friend is brought home. Cats are enticed with things that dangle. Electric cords are dangerous items that kitty will be interested in. If you have plants, make sure they are not poisonous to cats and remove those that could be harmful. Knick knacks could possibly be broken should your new fur baby accidentally knock one off of an end table. Cats love to play, it's their favorite thing aside from sleeping. Provide your new friend with toys intended for play or they will find other things to play with.

Prepare a small cardboard box with some cat toys in it for kitty to play with. Some cats prefer mice toys, some prefer ball toys, and some are crazy for toys that dangle from a stick or plastic pole. Until you get to know your cat better and determine his or her favorite toys, there are toys that you can buy that are relatively inexpensive yet allow a variety of things for kitty to play with. Bulk cat toys can provide your new fur baby with a variety of toy balls, mice that rattle, mice that don't rattle, toys with catnip in them or without catnip in them and many others to choose from. For not a lot of money you can get a good selection of different cat toys. Place all the new toys in the cardboard box and show kitty his or her very own toy box. It won't be long and you will see your new friend go to the toy box and select a toy to play with. Observation of this behavior will tell you which toys are the favorites. Stock up on the favorite toys but also introduce new toys to peak kitty's interest.

Keeping kitty busy playing with cat toys prevents them from playing with things that are not intended to be toys. Things such as bobby pins, rubber bands, safety pins, etc. are not things that your cat should be playing with. When your cat has plenty of toys to play with, he/she will be amused for hours and not be tempted to look for other things to play with. Don't be surprised to see kitty fall asleep clutching a favorite toy. Cat toys are a definite must for your new feline friend.

Getting Ready to Adopt a New Kitty?

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Treating Severe Cat Allergy Symptoms Properly

Many people love cats but a lot of them are suffering from cat allergies. Most of the time, people are typically showing mild symptoms among the common cat allergens like hair and saliva. These mild symptoms can be treated with the help of medications that can be purchased even without prescription.
However, some patients may experience severe cat allergy symptoms which can definitely be bothersome for them.

cat condo

In contrary to regular rashes or allergic rhinitis among individuals, they may experience extreme pulmonary or skin symptoms like asthma-like allergy attacks and even eczema. These symptoms however are not treatable by over the counter medications so they need to get medications right from the allergists or their physicians.

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The most common medication for these severe cat allergy symptoms are allergic shots. Treatment approaches using shots may come in two different forms. The first one would contain medications that will help alleviate the symptoms. These would immediately calm their system and prevent soreness. Aside from treating them immediately, these medications can also help prevent the occurrence of symptoms for a long time. This is why you'll see lots of people who have this problem to take shots at intervals of several months just to avoid getting these symptoms.

The next approach is the shot would have allergen serums which will trigger the symptoms This is called immunotherapy which will make your body immune from allergic reactions by producing the right antibodies to prevent their attacks in the future. The good thing about this is it will help you be immune to cat allergies after some time. This type of approach, however, is not meant for treatment but just for therapy purposes.

Skin problems like eczema are also an extreme symptom of cat allergy. This problem can only be solved by getting help from a dermatologist. In addition to just regular topical creams or medications, they can prescribe others that will totally clear out your body from this skin problem. In a sense, this medication is considerably stronger as it treats the body from this extreme symptom.

Once you've experienced these severe cat allergy symptoms, it's vital for you to get treatments with the help of your physician. For the time being, they may also ask you to avoid getting exposure to cats. With the help of their procedures and getting less cat exposure, you'll definitely get treatment from cat allergies and even totally be free from it after doing your therapy.

Treating Severe Cat Allergy Symptoms Properly

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Cat Bathing Steps

Are you someone that bathes their cat at home? It's not for everyone.

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Cats don't normally need a bath as they do so well at keeping themselves clean. But sometimes they require one for medical reasons and you need to take the plunge or have it done by your vet. Of course, it's always best to begin giving your cat baths when she's a kitten. The earlier in life your cat is exposed to the sink for a bath, the easier it will be to bathe her as she grows up. If that time has passed and you decide to take on the task later in life, here are some tips.

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First, get all your supplies in order. If you're bathing as a result of a skin condition, be sure you use a shampoo that's recommended by your veterinarian.

As we all know, cats love warmth so make sure the room warm. Also, use of a pheromone emitter that plugs in helps to lessen your cat's anxiety. Whether you're bathing in a sink or a tub, it's wise to place a rubber mat on the bottom so your cat doesn't slip around. It's already stressful on your cat without you having to keep her upright while bathing. If you bathe your cat in the sink, use of a hand sprayer is best. If you bathe your cat in the bathtub, a removable shower head works best. If you don't have either of these, then a large plastic cup will do.

If you have two people for the task then one can gently hold the cat at the neck while the other one bathes. If there's only you, then use of a harness helps. Just attach a leash to the harness and wrap it around the faucet leaving a foot or so lead so your cat doesn't jump out. Never leave the room when your cat is in a harness. If you're bathing your cat alone and don't have a harness, be sure to close off the room. Otherwise, you might have a wet cat running through your house. It's also wise to dress appropriately. Plan on getting wet and potentially scratched or bitten. Use of rubber gloves helps protect you.

Now for the actual bath. Get the water to a comfortable temperature and then put your cat in. Apply the shampoo starting with the head and going all the way to the tail. Then start lathering in the same direction. Some shampoos say to leave them on for a period of time before rinsing, so be sure to read the directions first. Be sure all the shampoo is rinsed out thoroughly. Shampoo left on the skin can cause skin irritations or be swallowed when your cat licks her fur.

To dry your cat, first squeeze all the water you can from her hair and then use a big fluffy towel to wrap her in. Most cats don't stand for a blow dryer. It scares them unless you've already gotten your cat use to its' sound and feel. Even then, not all cats will stand for it. Try to comb your cats hair out while still wet if you can. Otherwise, use a comb once she's settled down.

Cat Bathing Steps

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Neutering of Cats - Advantages and Disadvantages

Many people believe neutering is cruel to cats. The truth, however, is a bit different. Neutering not only prevents the cat from having kitten, but it also keeps the cat healthy.

According to a survey from 1995, about 80% of the cats and dogs in the USA are spayed or neutered.

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What does neutering mean?

Neutering is a routine surgery for removal of the cat's sex organs. After this surgery, the cat is unable to reproduce. In addition, the procedure stops the production of sexual hormones which cause the cat's sexual behavior. The decision whether to neuter your cat or not is one of the most important decisions that a cat owner has to take.

What exactly is done during the surgery?

Neuter is a very simple and routine surgery performed in veterinary medicine. The cat should not be feed the night before because anesthesia is performed on an empty stomach. When the procedure is for male cats, it is called castration, while for female cats it is known as spaying.

Castration involves the removal of the gonads, or testicles. This intervention removes the sperm source and the source of testosterone. Under general anesthesia, two small incisions are made in the scrotum's skin and both testicles are removed. In other words, the male cat is castrated.

Female cats undergo spaying which is the removal of the uterus and the ovaries. A small area on the stomach is shaved and a little incision is made. The ovaries and the uterus are removed through this incision. This surgery is equivalent to a full hysterectomy.

When should a cat be neutered?

Most vets recommend the cat undergoes this procedure when it is about six months old, before the car reaches sexual maturity. However, this may vary for the different cats. A common practice in the USA is cats to be neutered while they are very young, and sometimes cats aged eight weeks undergo such surgery.

A pregnant female cat can be neutered, too, but it may be very dangerous for the mother, especially if the procedure is performed in late pregnancy.

How long does the rehabilitation take?

Males cats are usually back to their normal lives on the day after the surgery. Female cats need some more time - about one or two days later they will be healthy.

The advantages of neutering

Most cat owners don't know exactly why they should neuter their cats. Here is a quick list of some of the key reasons.

- Male cat usually develop some undesirable changes in their behavior after their puberty, when they are approximately 6-8 months old. These changes include marking of their territory by spraying urine around the house, or expanding their territory and spraying urine outside and around the house. This is usually one of the reasons for cats being involved in car accidents. You can prevent these changes by neutering your cat.

- Neutering stops the cat spaying in the house. Urine is unsanitary and has a bad odor that can't be removed easy.

- Neutering will remove heat cycles at females. These heats occur several timed every year and cause some behavioral changes such as kneading, howling and restlessness. Also, it will prevent the cat from spraying. Neutering reduces the risk of mammary cancer and eliminates the development of pyometra - a serious infection of the uterine.

- Neutered cats cannot reproduce and will not have unwanted kittens.

- Neutering will make a female cat more attentive and loving. It will also protect her from sexually transmitted infections and some cancers.

- A neutered female cat will not attract males that urinated in her territory to mark her as their property.

- Neutered cats are more affectionate and calmer. They are more interested in their owners and are more social with people. Some statistics show that neutered male cats live longer than male cats that are not neutered.

The disadvantages of neutering

- Neutered cat cannot have kittens. Do not perform this surgery if you want to breed your cat.

- Some neutered cats make gain extra weight after the surgery because they will not use their energy to find mates, as they did before.

Neutering of Cats - Advantages and Disadvantages

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Spaying and Neutering Cats - Price

The spaying and neutering cats price can vary tremendously from state to state and even between neighbouring areas. Your location is not the only factor which will affect the cost.

The spaying and neutering of cats is desperately important, particularly with regard to feral cats. There is a tremendous overpopulation at present with millions of cats living on the streets and the shelters full to overflowing. The population of unhomed cats is growing faster than they can be re-homed. For this reason it is very important that the spaying and neutering cats price is affordable by all owners. There are some dedicated people who are not regular cat owners, but have taken on the responsibility of caring for a colony of feral cats nearby. These kind hearted folk forego many of the pleasures that we associate with keeping a cat such as the affection and fun and loyalty. They get little back in that way from their animals. What they do get is a very hefty bill from the veterinarian when they have a whole colony of cats to spay and neuter. For this reason there are a variety of payment schedules and feral cat spaying and neutering is often cheaper than that for a domestic cat. This is a great step in the right direction when it comes to controlling the numbers of street cats.

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There is no fixed sum when it comes to a spaying and neutering cats price. It will vary from one veterinarian to another and a whole range of other variables. The size of the cat will make a difference. This is mainly due to the anaesthetic required. The sex of the cat will be a factor; the operation for a female cat is more involved than for a male and so therefore the cost is usually higher. The age of your pet may make a difference too. A usual amount to pay would be in the region of to for spaying and to for neutering.

In some areas you may find a spaying and neutering cats price as low as . This is a great price and does have some conditions attached. For example you must a resident in that area and have proof of your address. Other schemes will provide a cheap service for households on a low income and proof of this is required. As I mentioned earlier, if you are responsible for a colony of feral cats, or indeed have trapped one in a humane trap, a service will be available in most areas whereby the cat can be spayed or neutered sometimes free of charge. Sometimes you will find that vaccines will also be available. Very often such a service will require the ear to be tipped so that it easy to see that the cat is not fertile.

Although it is easy to get a reasonably price spay or neuter for your pet, it is also easy to be overcharged. There are reports of some practices charging as much as 0. Be warned and make sure that you know what is included in the costs and do not forget to consider such extras as pain killers.

Spaying and Neutering Cats - Price

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Feline Leukemia

There is nothing more dangerous for cats are coming down with feline leukemia and it is usually deadly and a very sad way to die. It basically causes cancer in the lymph nodes of cats and can spread rapidly, somewhat like cancer in humans. So far reports indicate that feline leukemia can not be transmitted to humans or other cats, but some say it can be given to other cats, the jury is still out on that one.

Cats will catch feline leukemia when they are exposed for a long time to infected feces or saliva and it thrives in cold and damp places. Drinking water with other cats that are infected can cause the disease to spread to a normal healthy cat. Fleas and mosquitoes is another way that a cat can get it. Some cats will catch feline leukemia others will not. Strong healthy vaccinated cats usually will not get it while the weaker ones might.

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Some cats will carry the virus and no one will know it, and end up giving it to other cats in the home. This why it is so important to have your cat or cats vaccinated.  This prevents the leukemia from spreading as well as preventing the disease to get to the cats. If you let your cats out try to keep the stray cats in the neighborhood from coming around the house, as they might be carriers. Always keep fresh water handy for your cats, change it every day. They like fresh water and not stale just like us humans do. Watch what they eat, as cats are natural hunters they can bring home some awful prizes for their masters.

You can spot feline leukemia in your cat or others by watching them closely; if they start to vomit and have a fever or their lymph nodes are swollen they might have leukemia. Take them to your vet as soon as you can. The vet will be able to determine if your pal has it or not. By preventing feline leukemia will surely allow your buddy to live a long and playful life, just like you intended them to do. Your cat is your buddy and your friend and you must take care of him as he depends on you to help him live out their years in harmony and grace. They will love you forever and will give you hours of fun and love.

Feline Leukemia

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How Much Does Pet Insurance Cost?

The answer to this question is not an easy one. Pet insurance, like most insurance, have many variables that could make the price higher or lower.

Here is a list of the most important factors that affect the price of pet insurance premiums:

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The company itself: The company you choose is definitely a factor in the price of your premiums. As with everything else, whether it's a hamburger or an airline ticket, the company you choose will be a determining factor on the price of premiums.

The type of animal: Cats are generally cheaper to insure due to several reasons. Cats are usually kept indoors so they are less likely to get into accidents. They are also less prone to disease and they seem to stay out of trouble better than dogs. Dogs, on the other hand, are more likely to ingest a foreign object or to get hit by a car because they ran after something on the street.

Breed: Certain breeds are more prone to diseases than others. In fact there is a pet insurance company that will only provide accident insurance (no illness) for Chinese Shar-pei and Shar-pei cross-breeds. Insuring a Saint Bernard might be more costly than insuring a golden retriever.

Age: The older your pet, the higher the premiums. This doesn't mean that pet insurance is not available for senior pets; in fact, many companies will still enroll your pet even if she is older than 8 years. This is why it pays to do a little research before jumping into pet insurance.

Location: The cost you pet insurance premiums are also affected by where you live. All companies require a zip code before you can get a quote and will even exclude certain states.

Coverage and deductible: The amount of coverage and the size of the deductible will play a part on the total cost of your premiums.

Visit SmartPetInsurance.com for more information on pet insurance. Compare plans and get quotes.

How Much Does Pet Insurance Cost?

Alice Flowers is a free lance writer and she calls herself a real "foodie" and has a love of animals.

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HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO SPAY A CAT

How to Remove Cat Dandruff With Home Remedies

Cat dandruff is a skin condition resulting in flaky, dry dead skin. It should not be confused with dander which is regular shedding from healthy skin. Dander is comprised of both cats' saliva and dead skin cells whereas dandruff is allergic dermatitis that causes cat's skin to itch and appear scaly. Though dander may trigger nuisance to people that are allergic to cats, it is unlike cat dandruff which is an allergic reaction from cats.

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Causes:

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There are generally several culprits that cause dandruff in cats. Though some of them may require medical attention from a veterinarian, most of the conditions may resolve with home remedies:

Nutrition - many cats get dandruff simply because of poor nutrition. Food that lacks sufficient amount of O-mega 3 oil can cause the skin to dry and flake. A cat's hair and skin condition can be a good indicator of a cat's diet.

Moisture - though cats do not drink a lot of water, they need moisture to keep their body healthy and on track. A domestic cat usually gets water from a water fountain, food, or the environment (such as from a humidifier).

Health conditions - cat dandruff can also be a sign from a variety of medical conditions:
Parasites - fleas, lice, mites infection - bacterial feline diabetes - mostly due to improper diet obesity - excessive amount of grease on the skin allergies - allergies to food or other environmental triggers sunburn - outdoor cats that are exposed to the sun for an extensive period of time can get sun burnt
How to Treat Cat Dandruff:

Add a Humidifier - By adding a humidifier in your home, it supplies moisture for your cats' skin. Often we get shocks in winter when petting our cats. Improving the moisture level in the house can reduce that static electricity and lower the chance of getting zapped. Finally, a humidifier can help prevent colds in cats by clearing out their nose with moisture.

Drinking Water - Make sure fresh drinking water is always available for your cats. This will help keep their skin moist.

Diet Supplement - Omega 3 fatty acids or fish oil is an important part of a cat's nutritional diet. It maintains healthy skin and hair. Certain dry food does not contain adequate amount of Omega 3 fatty acids, so by adding some fish oil in their daily diet, it can improve the cat's skin condition and reduce the amount of dandruff.

New Cat food - If dandruff is caused by nutritional deficiency, it would be the best to switch to a vet recommended cat food especially one that offers Omega 3 fatty acids. You can also slowly introduce wet canned food into their diet. A good quality wet food contains mostly protein, good fat, little or no carbohydrates and many other vital vitamins that a cat needs.

Regular Grooming - You can start grooming your cat regularly with a brush or comb. Grooming stimulates the cats' skin and hair to grow healthily. When you are brushing your cat, the bristles are massaging the skin, triggering blood circulating underneath. This in return revitalizes the health of the skin and hair.

Flea, lice, mite treatment - If your cat is infested with fleas, lice or mites, it is important to treat your cat right away. Though you could try to bathe the cat, fleas are very persistent and over the counter shampoo does not usually fix it. Also, it can be spread to other cats in the same household. If one cat is infested with fleas, it is highly recommended to have the rest of the cats treated as well. A veterinarian can offer proper medication for flea/lice/mite/tick treatment.

How to Remove Cat Dandruff With Home Remedies

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What Makes A Cat - A Cat?

And why does a cat stubbornly insist on behaving like a cat?

Just about everyone can list the things that most accurately identifies what a cat is to them. Some will cite their amazing grace, agility and speed. Others will wax nostalgically about their intrinsic beauty. There will always be comments about their powers of concentration, excellent night vision, the cuteness of kittens that elicits such strong maternal instincts, and their seeming aloofness and self-confidence. And why does it seem that cats don't handle changes or stress well? In reality, these traits and others, are all just the symptoms of underlying characteristics that more rightly define the make-up and nature of cats. The feline characteristics elicit both enjoyable and maddening responses from humans, especially those who expect cats to act like people, dogs or other domesticated animals. Without question, cats are unique.

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What needs to be kept in mind is the fact that cats are the newest of any of the domesticated species. This puts them very close to their 'wild' roots. Studies of small wildcats, that is, undomesticated or untamed cats that live beyond the comfort of human households, gives insight to what the 'natural' character of the cat is. It is generally agreed upon that today's house cat has descended from a small African wildcat, Felis silvestris libyca. One of the notable characteristics of the wildcat is that in order to insure its own food supply and decrease its chances of becoming prey itself, is to limit it's activities to seeking food when others aren't. Namely, at night. Cats have perfected this night-time strategy and can function very well in limited light, or even in what a person might consider total darkness. Along with excellent night vision, some other characteristics have also been developed:

A broken, erratic tabby pattern and coloring of the fur coat which offers a well conceived camouflage for hiding in tall grass or forest settings. A black cat may possess the best camouflage on a dark, moonless night. How about a keen sense of hearing that can track predators or follow a prospective meal as it moves through the darkness. In addition to excellent night vision that makes the most of limited light, there's the additional advantage of eyes that also detect even the slightest motion.

Along with all this night-time advantage, a cat must also be able to move swiftly and precisely through it's territory to escape predators or other threats. They are able to accomplish this with the use of scent glands located on their feet and on the sides of their face. As they pass through their territory, they'll mark prominent objects along their path. With these scent glands they can lay down a trail that's extremely easy to follow. Now, these scent marks can communicate on the brightest day or darkest night and unlike sound, they won't alert predators. Unfortunately, these marks have to be freshened up from time to time, as well as added to if a new trail is to be explored. A resident cat, that is a cat that has claimed a territory for herself, must continually inspect her territory to keep the scents fresh and to mark any changes to it, such as a newly downed tree or other obstruction on her path. She doesn't want any surprise encounters in the dead of night while fleeing a predator.

All this scent marking plays a critical role in the survival of the small wildcat. With only so many hours in the day, she can't spend all her time marking a territory and leave no time for hunting, finding water or mating. If she did she would become extinct quite soon. She can only claim an area that supports her with food (and her kittens, too), and that area must be efficiently maintained with her scent trails. Under these conditions, it's easy to see that it's not practical for her to share her space for (2) reasons:

There's usually a limited food supply in the territory she has to maintain on a regular basis. The scent trails from other cats would probably be confusing.

Finally, there's the unique maternal nature of a cat that makes it very different from all other domestic animals. The answer to that question lies in her wildcat heritage, also. Survival of the cat species is dependant upon the survival of the kittens. Unlike 'pack' animals, a mother cat, or queen as they are known, is totally responsible for the care of her young. There's no one else around for her to rely on. She must teach her young everything they need to know to survive and do it before their food requirements exceeds the ability of her territory to provide for them. She must do this is a very short time and the kittens must have the capacity to learn all she has to teach. Needless to say, a very strong maternal bond is necessary if either mom or the kids are going to be successful at survival. And, as they learn to survive on their own, the young will one day leave the queen's territory and establish territories of their own. Or else, mom will kick them out. Now, we have (5) characteristics that make a cat... a cat:

Cats are nocturnal Cats are territorial Cats are solitary Cats are predatory Cats are maternal

So, What's all this Heat About??

The female cat's usual heat cycles are influenced by seasonal changes in the amount of daylight. These cycles run from January (as the days begin to grow longer) to October (when the days begin to shorten). She will cycle every 10 to 14 days until she is bred. Heat cycles are easily identified with a lot of vocal calling, rolling on the ground and constantly rubbing against furniture or your legs. She will assume a breeding position with her rump in the air and forepaws near the ground. Note: Spaying and neutering is the perfect cure for this situation. Heat symptoms will be eliminated as well as the risk for ovarian cancers and infections of the uterus. Not to mention the eliminating of kitten litters that can't be properly cared for.

Mating in cats presents an interesting diversion for animals known for their solitary nature and a strong sense of territory. In feral colonies it has been noted that a female in heat will mate with 18 or more males in a single day. Some ethologists attribute this rather promiscuous behavior to the fact that cats must really enjoy sex as much as humans do. The point is moot and probably can't be determined one way or the other. But, it does offer one answer as to why such solitary creatures would gather and form complex social interactions on a seasonal basis. As noted above, the maternal characteristic of a mother cat and her kittens is necessarily strong thus providing a kind of social interaction for cats at a young, impressionable age. So, it's not like cats never experience any degree of socialization from which they can draw the tools of getting along in a large gathering of like minded animals.

When cats gather around a regular, dependable food supply, such as a dump or rodent infested barn, a queen may not wean her young for up to eighteen months. This does have some distinct advantages:

Nursing keeps the queen and kittens together longer than is usual in the wild, keeping everyone social longer and living peacefully. Since lactating females won't come into heat, the population is limited and preserves peace. The nursing kittens won't mature sexually quite as fast which also keeps peace and provides some population control. With a more complex social environment, the kittens will learn more social skills. The longer a kitten nurses, the longer she is in a learning mode, hence, the more she learns.

When a wildcat queen teaches her kittens to accept kill as nourishment and then to hunt for themselves, they will make the transition back to solitary behavior. As the kittens provide more for themselves, the queen will resist nursing. The kitten play will become more aggressive and each will eventually make their way to the solitary life. She will resume her solitary life and the kittens will assume theirs. But, in the feral colony supported with a reliable food supply the driving survival instincts may be ameliorated or softened because of the plentiful food resources and an enhanced social development amongst the neighboring cats. That's not to say that the colony won't outgrow the ability of the territory (dump or barn) to provide food and some may find themselves striking out on their own for greener pastures. One might surmise that cats can get along in groups, establish rules of engagement for mutual survival and be quite successful at it. But, they are not afraid to go it alone and can be very efficient at surviving by their own guile if they have to. They really are quite amazing animals.

So, when you watch your cat as she displays her everyday habits, remember she has a lot of inherited behaviors that are motivating her. Whether it's her scratching or spraying instincts, or walking her domain in the same fashion every day reestablishing her scent trail, or arguing with other pets in your home or neighborhood (because it is after all, her territory). She does so because she learned to survive in an elegant, complex, yet sophisticated way. And it's probably just as hard for her to adjust to your domesticated life as it would be for you to adjust to surviving in the wild. It helps to remember... you're both pretty smart creatures.

The next time someone asks what makes a cat... a cat. Go ahead and tell them. "It's their cute paws, nubby nose, soothing purr, the way she rubs against your leg when you come home, etc, etc, etc". But, you'll know there's a lot more to it than that.

What Makes A Cat - A Cat?

Robert J Gallegos, author of http://www.catlover-giftsworld.com a web site dedicated to proper cat care with quality cat lover gifts based on an understanding of cat behavior, instincts and the unique requirements for healthy cats as pets. Cats are the newest of animals to be domesticated and still have one paw in the wild. It's a major reason why they're so mysterious and resistant to human expectations.

Robert is a life long lover of cats. He is dedicated to sharing his understanding of the cat experience, reducing the epidemic feral cat situation, and helping cat lovers to provide the best care for their cats.

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