Feline Diseases That All New Cat Owners Should Know About

Cat health problems can either be hereditary or brought about by other infections. In either case, your ability to care for your pet will depend on how much you are informed about these ailments, their causes and possible treatments. This article examines some common health problems usually found in cats.

Genetic Feline Diseases

There are some health problems observed in cats that are hereditary and knowing what these are will better equip you to cater to your pet's need should it be affected. Let's take a look at three of them.

- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: This heart condition is one of the most common genetic diseases that cats can get affected with. In this case, the left vertical heart tissues become thickened.

- Diabetes: This is a health disorder where both gene and environmental changes can be termed as culprits. However, your cat can be cured with proper medical attention and treatment.

- Polydactyly: This is another genetic disorder observed in cats where the cat may have more than eighteen toes.

Common Feline Diseases

Common cat health problems can range from flu and allergies to skin rashes and more. Here are some common ailments that may plague your pet:

- Hairballs: This is one of the most common feline diseases that is observed. A cat often grooms itself and in the process, swallows lots of hair. These hair forms a round or sausage shaped growth in the stomach which the cat vomits out later.

- Cat Flu: When the upper respiratory tract gets infected by a virus, you kitty might get the cat flu. This is a common infection and you should be able to cure it easily with proper medical care.

- FIV: This is AIDS in cats. When a cat is infected with FIV, it may not show any symptoms of its own. However, since this virus affects the immune system, your cat may succumb to FIV infection in the case where it already has some other chronic health disorders.

- Feline Stress: It's a fact that cats are often easily affected by stress and other related health disorders. Stress related health troubles in cats include loss of appetite, shaking, spraying, sudden behavioral changes and more.

Treating cat health problems is part and parcel of caring for your kitty. Should you observe unusual behavior in your cat, it's important to stay calm and try to consult a vet to get your feline friend treated as soon as possible.

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Feline Bladder Thickening - All Your Questions Answered

There are a lot of misconceptions about feline bladder thickening. Some say it is a disease, some say it is not a disease, some say it can be avoided, and some say it is unavoidable. The truth is that most cat owners do not know a lot about this problem. So, in this article, I am going to explain everything you need to know about bladder thickening problems in cats. If you are a cat owner, make sure you read this article fully.

Cystitis and Feline Bladder Thickening

Cats with urinary tract problems have multiple symptoms including:

* Frequent urination

* Urinating outside of the litter box and other unusual places

* Straining when urinating

* Difficult or painful urination

* Blood in cat urine

In 2/3 of cats, it is difficult to determine a specific diagnosis since the symptoms do not differentiate one cat urinary problem from another. For this reason, a general term is used called feline idiopathic cystitis or FIC.

One of the symptoms of FIC is feline or cat bladder thickening. The degree of feline or cat bladder thickening varies based on the severity of the disorder.

How does it affect my cat's health?

Feline or cat bladder thickening affects your cat's health in two ways. Firstly, your cat loses bladder control and starts having accidents more often. Secondly, because it is unable to empty its bladder completely when it urinates, a little urine tends to stay in the bladder. As a result, bacteria tend to multiply and this could lead to severe urinary infections.

Is it a serious problem?

It is not a serious problem as it can be treated easily. However, if left untreated for a long time, feline bladder thickening can worsen and could lead to serious bacterial infections which could be harmful to your cat's health. So, timely medical care is very important to make sure nothing serious happens to your cat.

How can we treat this problem and prevent it?

First and foremost, you must make sure your cat drinks a lot of clean, filtered water. Clean its litter box often as cats are very particular about cleanliness. Consider a gradual switch to a high quality canned cat food that will provide additional water in the diet. In one study, 89% of cats that switched to this type of diet did not

Conventional approaches can be helpful in cats with FIC, feline bladder thickening, and other urinary problems. Therapies such as pheromones which are fatty acids that help one cat communicate information to another cat, appear to have a positive effect.

Take it to a qualified vet regularly and get it checked thoroughly. This apart, you can give natural health supplements which can boost its immune system and improve its urinary health as well. You can find some good homeopathic supplements on the market which are both effective and affordable.

Jeff Grill is an editor of the Cat Health Guide and has written on many feline health problems. See this site for more information on feline bladder thickening and other treatment options.

Major Feline Health Problems

Cat owners or people who consider getting a cat should be familiar with the health issues they may experience. If you are informed about the common feline health problems you will be able to help your pet and will make sure your cat will be part of the family for a long time.

Cats can get affected by some deadly viruses but fortunately all of them can be avoided through vaccination. Vaccination your pet is really important because this will ensure good health and less medical problems for your cat. The American Association of Feline Practitioners claims that all cat should be vaccinated against the disease discussed below.

Feline panleukopenia - also called feline distemper and cause by the feline parvovirus. This disease is highly infectious and the virus may stay active for months and even years after it has been introduces. Usually cats get infected thought contact with the virus on litter boxes, food and water bowls or feces. Panleukopenia poses a great danger for kittens and causes fever, vomiting, diarrhea and even death. Vaccination against panleukopenia should be done at 8 weeks of age and booster vaccinations should be done every 4 weeks until the cat is 16 weeks old. Then, the vaccine should be given each year or every 3 years.

Feline Rhinotracheitis and Calicivirus - these are the most common reasons for upper respiratory diseases and are extremely contagious. These viruses aren't life-threatening for adult cats but kittens may dies because of them. Vaccination should be started at the age of 6-8 weeks and should continue every 3-4 weeks until the age of 16 months. Booster vaccination is performed in one year. After this period the vaccination is given once in three years and is usually combined with the panleukopenia vaccine.

Rabies - this disease causes death and can't be treated. It is transmitted with the bites of affected animals. The disease always has a fatal outcome so vaccination is recommended. It is given at 16 weeks of age and a booster vaccination is done at the age of 1 year and then every three years.

Feline Leukemia Virus - this is a retrovirus that attacks the immune system. It is very contagious and is transmitted though saliva and nasal discharge. An infected mother cat transmits the virus to her kittens. The disease leads to weight loss, anemia, cancer and various infections. A blood test should be performed before vaccination to make sure the cat doesn't carry the disease. The vaccinations against the feline leukemia virus may have various side effects, including sarcoma or formation of cancerous mass. For this reasons, many vets prefer to not vaccinate indoor cats that don't carry the disease. Generally, kittens are vaccinated at the age of 12-16 weeks. Booster vaccinations are performed in four weeks and then every year.

In order to keep your cat healthy, you need to keep a strong relationship with the vet who will consult you about vaccinations and health issues.

Cat spaying and neutering has many advantages for the health of your cat. If the cat is spayed before its first heat cycle, this will reduce the risk of breast cancer with approximately 95%. This will also eliminate the risk of ovarian or uterine cancer. In male cats, neutering eliminates the risk of testicular cancer. Neutering also solves some behavior problems, such as spraying, and fighting with other cats.

Cat owners should make sure their cat is free of parasites because they are dangerous both for the pet and the owner. You should take measure to eliminate internal and external parasites.

Regular fecal screening performed by your vet will help detect and treat common internal parasites, including roundworms, tapeworms, coccidia, and Giardia. Some of these parasites can be transmitted to humans, and especially children. Fecal screening will help you detect such problems and eliminate them before they develop into serious conditions.

The most common external parasites and fleas and ticks, and you should make sure your pet is not infested with them. There are various effective products that will help you eliminated fleasand ticks. Your vet can help you choose the most appropriate product. Fleas and ticks are not just annoying for your cat; they can cause pain and may transmit serious diseases, including tapeworms and lyme disease.

Your vet is essential part of your cat's health because he can determine any disease and help for their successful treatment. Older cats need annual health exams, annual blood and urine tests, as well as dental exams and care.

However, it is extremely important for cat owners to get familiar with the most common feline health problems in order to be able to help their pet for his successful treatment and health maintenance.

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Treat Feline Urinary Problems With Nature's Touch

Every feline urinary infection is considered an early indicated that something is not right in the cat's natural ability to fight off infection. In a healthy cat, the immune system should have no problem fighting off infection naturally, with no intervention. When treating a cat with a urinary infection, solutions to the problem must be viewed as short term, with an eye towards future prevention. Simply this means using a prescription medications to fight off and eliminate infection, and in the long term, taking steps that can help the cat's body fight off future infection, so that bacteria cannot colonize and multiple in the urinary tract.

The causes of a feline urinary tract infection are well known. Cats are often exposed to things in the environment that can trigger a urinary infection. This includes a litter box that is not frequently cleaned, or if a cat is not getting enough water, either through a food source or from a water dish. In the wild cats naturally get most of their water through food. For this reason, a simple switch from dry food to canned can help to properly hydrate the cat, which forces increased levels of urination, natures way of flushing the urinary tract free of infection.

Also if a cat has a depressed immune system, or a problem such as urinary stones, infection can take hold and colonize in the urinary tract. Infection leads to inflammation, which narrows the urinary passage, making it more difficult to urinate. Also, if urine spends more time in the bladder, bacteria can colonize.

Treatment for feline urinary problems starts with noticing the clinical symptoms. These are commonly fever, cat blood in urine, difficulty urinating such as straining and pain when urinating. A cat may also urinate in a strange place. As soon as you see these types of symptoms, take your cat to a veterinarian for a confirming diagnosis.

At first, treatment for feline urinary concerns are antibiotics. The downside of antibiotics is that they may not be tolerated well by your cat and problems with their long term use. There are also some concerns that extended use can start to harm the immune system.

Along with antibiotics, many cat owners find that natural approaches are of help, particularly in cats that are prone to the many types of feline urinary concerns. This includes, as mentioned, a switch to a diet with higher water content such as canned food, along with making sure that the food is AAFCO certified, which means that it meets the minimum nutritional requirements for cats.

For example, one tip is to mix a berry based juice into your cat's water. Berries help to naturally keep bacteria from clinging to the bladder wall. This is the same effect as in humans. If you cat will tolerate the approach, this will be all you need to do to reverse the tide against frequent urinary problems.

A supportive natural remedy may also be of help. The goal is to restore the health of the urinary system so the cat's natural defenses can get back to work. For example, for the urine has to have the correct composition to kill bacteria and cleanse the urinary system. The PH of the system also has to be in balance.

Natural supplements also contain a special blend of herbs such as Berberis vulgaris, Staphysagris and Cantharis, The effect of a natural approach can result in relief from frequent urination and bladder discomfort, the ability to support proper urine flow, it puts a stop to leakage and it can help to strengthen the immune system to bolster your pet's natural defenses. And because they are completely natural, they ease feline urinary concerns without also exposing your cat to harmful side effects.

Of course, using natural remedies and taking other steps such as dietary change (do it gradually by mixing old and new foods to avoid stomach problems) is only one step in treating any feline urinary problem. You can also bolster your cat's health by encouraging proper urinary habits by providing regular access to a clean litter box. Urinary tract issues are a serious matter and it is up to you do whatever you can to help your cat avoid them.

When it comes to providing treatment, nothing works as well as nature's healing touch combined with the advice you receive from your veterinarian. Talk to your vet today and consider using natural remedies to give your cat the gentle care it deserves.

Jeff Grill is an editor of the Cat Health Guide, which has more information on how to care for a feline urinary problems. The author also recommends the Pet Health Guide for information on natural treatment for feline urinary concerns.

3 Common Health Problems in Cats

Having a cat to share your life with can be a rewarding experience. This furry family member can often be aloof, but he needs your love and care to thrive. In order to protect the health of your cat, it is important that you become familiar with common feline health problems. By knowing what to watch for in your cat, you will be able to keep him healthy and happy throughout his life.

Heartworm

Heartworm is one of the most common and well-known health problems that your cat may encounter. Heartworm is contracted by contact with mosquitoes and can cause very severe reactions in cats. Dogs get heartworm as well but they do not have the same reactions and symptoms as do cats. For obvious reasons, it is more common for an outdoor cat to contract heartworm. There is a possibility of a mosquito getting inside your home, so indoor cats can be at risk as well.

There are several symptoms to be aware of that are consistent with heartworm. These symptoms are coughing, lethargy, weight loss, and vomiting. Prevention is the best way to protect your cat from this deadly disease, which can come from heart worm medications.

Feline Distemper

Feline distemper is a viral disease that is very contagious. This disease is most common in younger cats and kittens. Feline distemper is passed from cat to cat through direct contact, which makes it more common for cats to contract this disease that are around other cats.

There are many symptoms of feline distemper. These symptoms are very common to many feline health problems. The symptoms that you need to watch out for are loss of appetite, fever, and depression. It is important to take your cat to the vet if you observe any of these symptoms.

When the need to board your cat arises, be sure that the facility you choose requires that all cat boarders are current on the Feline Panleukopenia vaccine.

Feline Leukemia

Feline Leukemia is one of the most fatal diseases that your cat can contract. The most important thing to do to help your cat with feline leukemia is to through prevention. There are vaccines that your cat can get at the vet to help prevent this disease. Some of the symptoms of feline leukemia are fever, vomiting, and yellow around the nose and mouth.

Keeping your cat healthy is important to you both. By being knowledgeable about the common health problems in cats and their symptoms, you will be able to protect and advocate for your furry loved ones.

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Cat Care For a Healthy Long Life Together

As a cat owner all you really need to do is give your cat adequate shelter, food, and plenty of water. To keep your cat in the best of health, you will want to provide only premium cat food. Premium cat food is designed and balanced to provide maximum health results for your pet.

Even with the best of care, cats can get illnesses. Your cats behavior will alert you to possible health problems. A cat that is not eating, acting listless, and laying around is showing critical signs of illness. A cats fur that is dull, patching or shedding a lot is also a sign of sickness.

Although most of the more common ailments and sicknesses are minor, there are some cases where a visit to your veterinarian can make the difference between life and death for your pet. Be aware that diarrhea and vomiting are sometimes common, even with basic sickness. If your cat seems to be doing either one of the two for more than a day, you should contact your veterinarian. Coughing is common as well due to your cats attempt to dislodge hairballs. You should check with your vet if your cat seems to be coughing for another reason.

Keeping your cat current on vaccinations will protect your cat from various diseases. Rabies, feline distemper, and several other diseases require vaccinations. Feline distemper is one of the easiest diseases to prevent and one of the most devastating diseases a cat can get. The disease comes on quickly and leaves you little time to get treatment. Feline leukemia is another deadly disease. It can be spread quickly among cats, so you want to be careful not to expose other cats to a cat with feline leukemia. Feline leukemia can be prevented with proper vaccination.

A cat that stays outdoors can have the problem of parasites. A cat that contracts worms will have a dull coat and little to no appetite. Two of the types of worms that affect outdoor cats are the ringworm and the hookworm. Worms can come from lice, fleas, and even dead rodents that the cat eats. To protect your cat against worms, you can try to give your cat garlic during feedings.

Taking the proper steps can keep your cat healthy for years. Include quality food, regular checkups with the vet, and proper vaccinations and you should keep your cat safe from pests and diseases and enjoy a long life together.

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Feline Dental Problems You Need to Be Aware Of

Dental health is often overlooked in cats and since they are so clean themselves, you would never expect their teeth to be dirty. However, feline dental problems are one of the largest causes of health problems in cats so owners must be aware of problems that can occur and what to do about them. Here is a list and description of some common dental problems that occur in cats.

1) Feline Periodontal Disease.

Feline periodontal disease happens when a buildup of plaque forms tarter, pushing food debris and bacteria under the gum line, infecting the gum and bone structure that support the teeth. The most common symptoms include: inflamed gums, swelling/bleeding gums or bad breath. There are several ways to treat periodontal disease including antibiotics, dental cleaning, and extraction.

2) Feline Stomatitis.

Feline Stomatitis is thought to be an autoimmune disease, so the body becomes allergic to plaque around the teeth. It is often found in cats with other autoimmune problems. If your cat has this, you may notice an inflammation of the mouth which may extend into the throat. The cat will appear to be in pain-he may not eat or may constantly paw at is mouth. Feline stomatitis is a serious condition and should be taken care of by a veterinarian.

3) Feline Odonotoclastic Oral Resoprtion Lesions (FORL).

Cats with feline odonotoclastic oral resorption lesions have painful lesions that start as shallow pits that occur in the enamel of a tooth. The tissue surrounding the tooth becomes inflamed because of plaque accumulation. Most of the time, a veterinarian will need to remove the infected tooth to prevent further problems.

4) Malocclusion.

Malocclusion This may be the result of abnormal tooth alignment. It can cause difficulty in eating along with weight loss. The problem can be fixed by a veterinarian who specializes in feline dental health and orthodontics.

Remember that you should take your cat in for an examination when you first notice symptoms of dental problems, pain is usually the last sign that shows up, so don't let it progress that far. In order to detect dental issues, you should brush your cat's teeth and examine them regularly, feed them a nutritious and well-balanced diet, as well as take them in for regular veterinarian examinations. By taking the right steps, you may never have to deal with unfortunate feline dental problems! If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask the veterinarian.

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Signs of Feline Kidney Trouble - Common Yellow Flower Provides Tonic For Cats With Kidney Problems

Thinking back to a few weeks ago you began noticing changes in your cat's normal daily habits. Now you are wondering if she is exhibiting signs of feline kidney failure. The feeling of dread closes in on you and your mind kind of tunes out the thought that your kitty is dying. Don't give up because there is a lot you can do to help your cat live longer.

I won't kid you by promising you that chronic kidney failure in cats can be completely cured. However, there are steps you can take to minimize the painful symptoms and even improve her condition. Remain optimistic, because the first big step in helping a cat with kidney disease is recognizing that she is showing the symptoms of it. Now you can take action.

The most commonly recognized sign of feline kidney problems is a marked increase in your cat's drinking and urination patterns. I mean, it feels like she just can't get enough water - you're filling her water bowls much more frequently.

Then there is the litter box. She's going in it, but she's going and going and going. She's astounding you with the baseball size litter clumps - and lots of them.

Other symptoms of feline kidney failure include weight loss, lethargy, vomiting, loss of appetite, and general weakness. If your cat is older, these could be the warning signs of Chronic Renal Failure (CRF).

Your cat is drinking and urinating more because her kidneys can't concentrate the urine and she pees it out. Then she feels dehydrated and thirsty so she drinks a pint of water. If you see these problems in your cat she should be quickly brought to the vet for a blood test, because these symptoms will only show up after 75% of the kidney tissue is damaged.

Ok, I promised not to "snow" you on the prognosis. CRF will shorten your cat's life and she will die of it or complications from the disease. There is no known way to reverse its affects as it changes healthy kidney tissue to scar tissue.

I know this scares the wee out of you, but hold on! There are treatments that can slow down the progression of the disease, subdue the uncomfortable symptoms and ultimately give your cat a longer life. The progression of feline kidney problems can vary from cat to cat, some can live happy and healthy for months to years.

Cats with chronic renal failure can benefit from a special "kidney friendly" diet and watchful care. Some cats need at home intravenous rehydration too. Now a lot of vets insist on kidney specific diets, but some cats just flat out refuse to eat them.

If your cat refuses to eat the special diet food your vet recommends, ask about using something to stimulate her appetite. Certainly there are synthetic pharmaceuticals that will do this, but your cat's kidneys are already damaged - why compound the problem with costly drugs? This is exactly why parents of cats suffering from kidney ailments choose a homeopathic remedy.

Seeing signs of kidney failure in cat is very unnerving, but it can be managed with careful at home care in most cases. Dandelion is an ingredient found in homeopathic remedies that support your cat's renal functions. This yellow 'weed' is a rich source of vitamins and minerals for your cat. An added benefit is that it improves your kitty's appetite to motivate her to chow down on her special diet food. Check out the free movie on recognizing kidney failure in cats and find out more about remedies to help your cat with kidney trouble - at http://Cat-Bladder-Problems.com.

The Solution - Home Remedy To Remove Dog and Cat Urine and Feces Odor For Just Pennies!

Accidents will happen! We all know that feeling, so do our pets!

Even the most well-trained dog or cat may have a bladder infection or serious case of diarrhea, and can't make it to the litter box or door on time.

Puppy owners can appreciate that even the most well-intentioned puppy, sometimes gets so excited or busy, they forget to take care of business.

Sometimes it's intentional! We have those special pampered poochies that truly believe relieving themselves outside, is for animals; which of course, exclude them. They tend to have favorite spots, literally and figuratively, which they've deemed as their private in-door privy.

Why Does It Happen?

There are several reasons why pets urinate or defecate in the house; even though they know they shouldn't.

Pets that are stressed out, possibly because they are new to the home, there may be a new family member or pet, sometimes regress.

Medical problems, such as urinary tract infection (UTI) and bladder infection can trigger uncontrollable urinating. Some cats are known to urinate in inappropriate places, as a way of letting their person know they are having a problem!

If you just moved, they could be getting bombarded by the odors left behind by a previous four-legged resident, and may lapse back to "marking" their new territory.

New furniture, bedding and carpeting is often a huge bulls-eye for staking their claim!

The piddling problem happens most often with excited puppies and submissive and/or overly excited dogs.

Diarrhea! Occasionally caused by something as innocent as a change in diet.

Negative reactions and side effects to certain medications, for example: diuretics and steroids.

Senior pets may lose control over their sphincter muscles.

Lack of routine! All dogs need routines. They thrive on them. Lack of scheduled feeding and relieving times can make it hard for a dog, especially a young one, to get house trained. That's your fault, not theirs!

Adhere to schedules as much as possible. If you can't get home on time, make arrangements for someone to feed and walk your puppy or dog at their scheduled time!

Other than for overnight sleeping, do not confine your puppy or dog to a crate for more than an hour or two.

There are those canines and felines that find it irresistible not to mark dirty laundry left on the floor, or even worse, on the bed as theirs. The laundry problem usually happens when you come home with the scent of another animal on your clothes.

Do you have a new dog or cat sleeping on your bed? Your old sleeping companion may resent the intrusion.

Some actually believe it's an imaginative way of getting your attention when they feel neglected. To their curious way of thinking, negative attention is better than no attention.

The best way to avoid the soiling in the house problem is to know your pet. Watch for signs of stress, inappropriate behavioral changes and medical issues. Manage them accordingly. Put your puppy and dog on a regular schedule of feeding and relieving times.

If your pet is having a soiling problem, restrict their access to only a location that is easy to clean. Do not give them the run-of-the-house, until they earn that privilege.

The Recipe For The Solution!

There are countless commercial products on shelves and online for the removal of pet odors. Some are great, some not so great. Most are expensive.

Here is a home remedy many have found to work effectively and it costs only pennies per use. You may find keeping a spray container on-hand for emergencies or just to freshen up an area isn't such a bad idea.

The Solution

1 cup of hydrogen peroxide (3%)

1/3 c rubbing alcohol

1 tsp. baking soda

1/4 tsp of liquid dish soap

Combine the four ingredients in a spray or empty liquid detergent bottle.

How To Apply The Solution

With paper towel, absorb as much of the urine as possible. A twisting motion helps to wick up more!

Shake the bottle and spray The Solution onto the spot. Don't freak; it will fizz and foam! That means you got the right place! For carpets and furniture, test a less obvious area first,.

If it's laundry, spray or squirt the entire soiled area. Allow 10-15 minutes, launder as usual.

If it's wood floors or tiles, give it enough time to stop fizzing, and then wipe it up. Spray and wipe again.

If it's carpeting, bedding or furniture, allow 24 hours to dry, then vacuum.

Bottom line: Keep a bottle of The Solution ready to use and you'll save yourself time and stress when you need it. If you want to make sure you are getting all the soiled areas in your home, or how good a job you've done, invest in a small, black light. You may have one squirreled away from your hippie days or your teenage kid may even have one! If not, you can pick one up at most novelty stores, paraphernalia shops and pet stores. They are also available on-line. Places you missed or don't know about, will glow!

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Cat Care - Products to Help Owners

I have no doubt that you are treating your pet cat just like the other family members in the house. Cats make wonderful pets; they are cute, fun to play with and nice to cuddle. However, cats are living organisms and we cannot deny that they may make your day even busier by leaving fur balls around, soil your carpets or even wet your sofa. So what can you do? Well, your kids do mess up the house too, don't they? If you really treat your cat as part of your family, you would have no other choice but to simply clean up the mess. Fortunately for all cat owners, products which make cat care much easier are widely available in the market today.

o Litter Boxes

Cats just hate to be dirty. They spend a considerable amount of time licking themselves to remain clean and neat. Unlike dogs, cats are commonly known as low maintenance pets, but there are still necessary cares to be given to them. One of these areas is the kitty litter boxes.

With better products, kitty litter boxes now come with all sorts of colours and patterns which bring a touch of whimsy to your interior design. With better designs and technologies, the messes can be cleaned easily and hence put an end to the odors.

Cat care products seem to be quite competitive nowadays. Have you ever heard of automatic self cleaning litter boxes? There is this design which has an internal grill that traps used litter and you simply roll the enclosed litter box on its side and remove the waste tray. There is another kind which takes self-cleaning to the next level by having a slowly but rotating system that quietly but continuously scoops used cat litter into a receptacle. And finally there is this kitty litter box which automatically flushes cat waste down your toilet bowl. Instead of cat litter, this box uses permanent granules that are washable. After your cat uses the box, the granules are automatically washed, disinfected, and dried. Liquid and any solid waste are flushed down the toilet bowl with fresh water.

o Kitty Litter

Like choosing the food they eat, your cat may prefer one kind of kitty litter to another. There are several brands in the market; your cat will come to one that it prefers. Some good kitty litter can actually help to eliminate odors and keep your feline healthy from harmful bacteria. There is this brand which not only neutralizes litter box odors, but also changes color if your cat has a urinary tract infection. Early detection means early treatment for your cat. With early treatment given, your feline friend has a much higher chance of survival as urinary tract infections can be life threatening.

o Shedding tools

Many cat owners are troubled by the cat hair that clings to clothes, furniture or all over the house. To get rid of this problem, you may just need to invest in one of the cat care products which are the shedding tools. Shedding tools can come in two forms; one by brushing through your feline's fur and the other by cleaning up hair from your furniture and clothes.

Cats typically shed their undercoat rather than the upper level parts, so these products basically help to remove those dead hair which is about to drop off. These products are especially designed for cats' fur and they can come in the form of comb, brush or glove brush.

Removing these dead hair or fur ball from your cat's body not only help you to keep the house clean, it can also prevent your cat from accidentally swallow the fur ball which may cause serious intestine problems.

Basically cat care is simple. Being a good cat owner, you have to learn the know-how in cat care, understand them, and observe them regularly and carefully to see if they are suffering from any health problems. To help the cat owners further, improved cat care products are making it easier take good care of their feline companions.

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Feline UTI - How to Spot It!

Cat kitty litter box problems originate from various sources. One of the most common reasons is a feline Urinary Tract Infection (UTI).

Felines endure soreness very effectively. As a matter of fact, we could be misled that your cat is actually feeling very good because she is eating, purring, and also cuddling up to people for human adoration and interest. However at the same time, in the event that she's demonstrating out-of-cat-litter-box experiences, she could be suffering from from a feline UTI. It's up to us all to figure it out.

When you know the symptoms, it gets to be clear that kitty has a difficulty. She may well meow in agony at the same time peeing. She might make an effort to pee, but small amount of urine or practically nothing will come away.

Your trusty cat may possibly groom her private parts excessively, and meows while she does this. Yet the biggest pointer to show your cat could possibly be suffering from a feline UTI, is blood in her urine.

In case your kitten has quit using her cat litter box, and she's urinating over a floor that is white or very light colored, the blood may clearly stand out in the kitty urine puddle.

A lot of cats who suffer from a feline UTI associate the litter box with the soreness that comes from this illness. Their cat reason states if they stop using the cat litter box, perhaps the ache will not come around once again. This is when you start discovering cat pee messes around your home.

If you're one of the fortunate ones whose cat continues to be using her cat litter box while suffering from a feline UTI, the cat litter coloring and composition may possibly hide the blood. It is usually a good idea to carefully examine your kitty's deposits frequently to ensure she is healthful.

Feline UTIs may be curable with medicines from your vet. If you suspect a feline UTI, phone your vet

instantly and comply with her guidelines for bringing in your kitty for additional analysis.

After the feline UTI is actually diagnosed and taken care of, your kitty should take back her excellent litter box routines once again. If not, a short period of confinement for cat litter box re-training can be quite successful.

Feline UTIs are usually preventable with a permanent change in your cat's eating habits. Consult with your vet regarding how to safely move forward on this.

If you want to discover more advice and information on cat care, then you must visit http://kittencollars.org.

Make sure your kitten or cat gets the tip top care they deserve!

How to Keep Your Cat Healthy? 5 Tips for Having a Healthy Cat

Providing your cat with good shelter, food, and a lot of water will ensure you have a healthy cat. Most of the time, that is. Cats tend to fall sick occasionally, just like their owners.

1.Healthy cat food

Being a cat owner, you need to make sure you give your pet the best cat food you can. Ideally you would feed your pet with premium cat food so as to keep it healthy and pleased. There is now a wide selection of good dry cat foods available such as Hill's light cat food, Royal Canin or Blue cat food. These all have a restricted amount of calories and fat, with the proper amounts of fatty acids, protein, vitamins and minerals to keep your cat on the healthy side while it's putting off weight. They also have the advantage of being easy to measure and monitor the exact quantity your pet gets. It is well worth trying several different brands and flavors for your feline. Even choosing a cat food in gravy or jelly can make a difference. Whichever cat food your pet prefers make sure it is a decent quality cat food as some cheap cat foods do not offer the recommended amount of nutrients for your cat's health.

2.Monitor your cat's behavior

Although in some rare cases the vet handles life and death illnesses, the majority of cat diseases and ailments are insignificant. A good way to determine when your pet is ill or needs medical care, is by monitoring its behavior. The cat's behavior is instrumental in diagnosing its health condition. If your cat refuses to eat, is being sleepy, subdued or inactive, it's time to rush it to the vet. Also, pay careful attention to its coat. A dull and patchy coat or excessive shedding should also raise an alarm. Get in touch with your vet immediately!

3.Identify symptoms on time

Even with minor ailment, diarrhea and vomiting can sometimes occur. However, do talk to your vet if your cat is having one of these two symptoms for longer than a day. Coughing is not uncommon either as cats force out hairballs this way. Should your feline be coughing for a different reason, seek veterinarian care as soon as you can.

4.Keep your cat's vaccinations up to date

Keep your cat up to date with all its vaccinations to protect it from different illnesses. Feline distemper and rabies are some of the diseases you want to vaccinate your pet against. Although feline distemper is easy to prevent, it is one of the deadliest illnesses to strike a cat. There's little time to get medical care as the disease is very quick in hitting the little animal. Proper vaccinations can also prevent feline leukemia, another devastating illness. The diseases can be spread very fast amongst cats, while not affecting humans. Although vaccinations against feline leukemia are now available, it is advisable to keep your cat away from other cats who have the disease.

5.Prevent cat worms

Worms is another widespread issue amongst outdoor felines. Worm symptoms include the lack of appetite and a dull coat. Hookworm and ringworm are some of the common sorts of worms out there. Lice, fleas or even the body parts of dead rodents cats eat, can all be a source of worms. Eggs which the pet has consumed will mature and in turn cling to the walls of its intestines. A good way to guard your cat against worms is adding garlic to its cat food on a regular basis.

If you want to have a healthy cat for a long time, treat it well. Take it to the vet for regular checkups and ensure you feed it quality cat food. Regular vaccination would safeguard it from various illnesses ans pests. Look after your cat now and you will have more peace of mind further down the road...

Get more Free, Simple, Proven Cat Advice.

Get it here:

[http://www.infooncat.com/]

Simple Steps You Can Take at Home to Prevent a Cat Urinary Tract Infection

With the high cost of veterinary care these days, many cat owners are interested in what they can do to prevent the expense and stress of painful cat urinary problems. Here are some things you can do at home to prevent cat urinary tract infection, or cat UTI.

What's The Most Common Cause Of Cat Urinary Tract Infection?

Cat bladder stones are at the root of many feline urinary problems, from a cat blockage, to feline cystitis. Stones in your cat's bladder can block his urethra, causing a complete cat urinary blockage that will be fatal within a couple of days if left untreated.

The sharp edges of feline bladder stones can also irritate and inflame the walls of your cat's bladder, leading to cat bladder infection.

How Can Cat Bladder Stones Be Prevented?

Diet is the most important factor in the development of feline bladder stones. Most cat owners don't realize that by feeding their cats dry food, they're setting them up for feline urinary problems. Why is this?

It's because cats are meant to get most of their water from their food. You may have noticed that your cat doesn't drink much water, and this is why. It's difficult for a cat that eats only dry food to drink enough water to prevent feline bladder problems. When a cat isn't drinking enough water, his urine is very concentrated.

This is bad for two reasons. First, toxins and excess minerals are not being flushed out of your cat's body. The second reason is that the minerals can begin to clump together to form cat bladder stones. When this happens, a cat urinary blockage usually isn't far off.

It's a known fact that by increasing the amount of water going through your cat, you can decrease the incidence of cat UTI.

Feeding Canned Cat Food Can Prevent Feline Cystitis

Canned cat food has a moisture level of around 75%, which is much higher than dry food, with a moisture level of less than 10%. Just by changing your cat's diet, you can prevent many cat urinary problems.

You'll also want to make sure your cat always has access to lots of pure, clean, water. It can often be a challenge to get your cat to drink enough water. Sometimes adding a little chicken broth to his food will make him thirsty enough to drink more.

Cats usually drink water after they eat, so by dividing his daily food portion up and feeding him two or three times a day instead of once a day, you may encourage him to increase his water consumption.

Natural Pet Remedies For Feline Urinary Support

Many pet owners are turning to natural pet remedies to prevent and treat minor cat urinary tract infection. Homeopathic remedies like Cantharis and Staphysagris help to reduce the pain and inflammation of a cat bladder infection. Herbs like uva ursi and barberry have antibiotic-like properties, and are effective against common bacteria that cause feline bladder infection.

To find a remedy that's safe and effective for your cat, be sure to look for one that's formulated especially for pets so he'll receive the proper dosage.

To sum up, cat urinary problems can often be prevented with the proper diet, and adequate water intake. Remember that it's easier, and more cost-effective, to prevent feline cystitis than it is to treat it.

Darlene Norris has combined her long-time interest in natural healing with her experience working at a vet clinic to bring you her new website, Natural Pet Urinary Health. Find more information on cat urinary tract infection, and discover the best place to buy herbal pet remedies at http://NaturalPetUrinaryHealth.com

How to Find a Good Cat Breeder

If you're planning on adding a pure breed kitten to your home, you may be considering getting one from a breeder. How do you know which breeders are reputable, and which are backyard operations promoting unhealthy felines? This helpful breeder checklist can help you identify the best cat breeders and discount individuals who may well be unethical or novice.

What exactly is a Good Cat Breeder?

A reputable breeder is someone who:

breeds cats to better a particular breed, never to profit from selling kittens.
has expert knowledge of the specific breed standard.
registers their kittens and cats with the CFA (Cat Fancier Association).
has a waitlist of buyers, not an excess of kittens.
can explain the purpose of breeding a specific sire to a certain queen.
understands common genetic health conditions and checks their queens and sires before mating.
tests their queens, sires, and kittens for contagious viruses, and supplies the result to potential buyers.
can provide complete veterinary records from their vet.
can provide a copy of the cats' pedigrees, not simply registration papers.
participates in Cat Fancier Association shows.can offer personal references from a veterinarian and other buyers.
only sells kittens to average customers as neutered pets, not as breeding animals.
requires that you sign a binding agreement outlining your rights as a buyer and responsibilities as a pet owner.
asks you questions about your household, lifestyle, family members, other animal companions, and ability to take care of a pet.
will answer your concerns about health and wellness, proper grooming, and behavior after your purchase.

Potential Red Flags

If you're not sure if the breeder you're considering is a good one, beware of these warning signs. Look out for the cattery owner who:

breeds many types of cats.
has litters of kittens readily available constantly.
provides unsigned registration papers, or papers missing the breeder's name.
sells kittens to pet stores or other retail stores.
can't produce veterinary records or proposes that the customer deal with veterinary care.
doesn't allow you to observe the cattery or where the cats are kept.
registers kittens and cats with a registry other than the CFA.
sells kittens to buyers on the web or by mail order.
sells kittens at a young age (6-8 weeks) or as soon as they are weaned.
advertises on the web or in classified ads -- in general, professional breeders do not need advertising since their kittens are sought-after.

If you research thoroughly and inquire before you purchase, you can feel confident that you're not supporting an unethical breeder or kitten mill -- and that you will be adding a happy, healthy kitty to your family.

For more information on finding a cat breeder and to read more about cat breed profiles, I recommend a helpful website called www.catnipnation.com. Best of luck in finding the right kitten for your family!

My Cat Purrfect Friends

Having been a feline pet owner of ten cats over the past 15 years, I have come to know the good and bad of caring for pets. From giving them all their own cozy cat bed to sleep in, to finding their favorite cat litter for their pampered paws, I can honestly state that it has been a truly educational and rewarding experience. With their many personalities combined with their boundless energy and unconditional love, my cats have given me an endless source of knowledge and many joyous moments.

Cats are well known for their defiant independence and they waste no time in letting you know that. Once their territorial boundaries have been well established and made known to all living species in the household, it is time to get down to the hard core work of actually trying to take care of them. That's if they let you. Perhaps a well carpeted cat tree to keep them off your furniture and out of mischief, or a few cat toys for them to chase around the room and lose under the couch.

A well cared for pet will usually live a long and healthy life bringing many moments of happiness to those of us who love them. All pets are unique to their owners and are very important to them. Because of the love we have for our pets we tend to spoil them and try to make sure they have everything they want. With so many products on the market to choose from, this can be a daunting task. Sometimes it may be better to just keep it as simple as you can.

Providing our pets with a nutritional diet should be the first concern since this will keep them healthy and energetic. Exercise is extremely important for keeping them fit and active. Giving them a comfortable place to sleep will keep them secure. Visits to the veterinary office for their regular vaccinations and flea medication are a necessity for keeping them safe from unwanted illnesses.

I currently have six surviving cats and each has her own unique personality. Adjusting to their individual wishes can sometimes be difficult but loving them equally is really very easy. Once you become attached, they've got you forever!

Adopting A Cat

So you want to adopt a cat? They can be entertaining, loveable, company and independent. Less than 10 per cent of the world's cats are purebred - most just common house cats.

There are different places to look for your kitten or cat. Check out http://www.petfinder.com, your local animal shelters or rescue groups.

Many shelters will vaccinate, deworm, test for feline leukemia and spray/neuter before adoption. However, ask because they all don't do all of these things.

Before you go out and look for your kitty or cat, first consider your needs, expectations and lifestyle. Ask yourself these things:

1. Are you home during the day? If not you might want an adult cat that is low-key, kittens need more attention.

2. Can you afford a cat? You need to pay adoption fee, food, litter and vet care.

3. Do you have time to devote to your cat/kitten? They need attention and love.

4. Are you ready for a long-time commitment because cats live to be 15-20 years old.

5. Do you have time to take care of your cat/kitty? Like feeding, exercise by playing, clip nails and change litter daily?

6. Do you have adequate living space for a cat?

7. Are you allergic to cats?

Now kittens versus cats. Kittens need to be house-trained and socialized.They will most likely scratch furniture, taste your plants and knock things off counters, tables and anywhere they can climb. However, they are cute and adjust quickly to their surroundings.

Adult cats usually have outgrown chewing and other behaviors but may have existing behavior problems like separation anxiety, scratching furniture and spraying.

When looking at kittens/cats at a shelter observe them first. Watch their activity and attitude. If a kitten with other kittens, he should be playing with them.

Put your finger in the cage, does he come up to you? Is he friendly and outgoing? Does he nuzzle and purr when you hold him?

Check these things out too.

1. Does he have bright eyes and clear expression?

2. Is his nose clean and slightly moist?

3. Are ears clear?

4. Is fur shiny and clean?

5. Do you see any fleas?

6. Does he purr and have a playful meow, not a long pleading meow?

Well this should get you going to look for that loveable kitten or cat. Good luck!

Sandy has a blog on cats with cat quotes, amazing facts about cats and information.

Make Your Home Cat-Safe - How To Keep Your Cat Happy and Healthy

* Lock things up that could cause harm

* Keep the washer/dryer door closed at all times

* Honk the car horn before starting it up

* Use fire carefully

* Keep all upstairs windows closed or screened

* Store string away tidily

* Keep floors free of small things

* Be constantly aware of what your cat is doing

Curiosity gets most cats in trouble at some point in their lives. As your cat's caregiver, keeping her safe sometimes seems like a "mission impossible." With a little foresight and action, however, you can create a "home, safe home."

When you're trying to provide the best home possible for your cat, it pays to think like her. Put on some old clothes and get down on hands and knees and take a look around. Is that shiny crystal vase on the shelf a tempting target? Remember that cats will jump onto shelves and tables.

That dangling drapery cord would be fun to leap and grab. What's in this big pot? In case you need help identifying what might catch a cat's eye, here's a list of common household items that are often the cause of cat injuries:

* Roach and ant traps

* electric and phone cords

* cigarettes in ashtrays

* open doors and windows

* rubber bands

* housecleaning chemicals

* lit candles

* Christmas trees

* ornaments

* paperclips

* rocking chairs

* uncovered toilets

* trash cans

* human medications

* chocolate

* anti-freeze

* unattended boiling pots

* electric stove burners

* plastic bags.

Cats find plants irresistible as playthings. They love to pounce on them and shred them with both their claws and teeth. Although they are carnivores -meat eaters-they sometimes eat plant material. For these reasons, it's important to make sure the plants in and around your home won't pose a health risk. The following are some common house and landscape plants that are toxic to cats:

* Philodendron English ivy

* caladium dieffenbachia "elephant ear"

* poinsettia

* mistletoe

* azaleas

* holly

* berries

* boxwood

* wisteria

* hydrangea

* oleander

* chinaberry tree

If you live in an area prone to natural disasters, keep an emergency pet supply kit with your own. Include a week's worth of food as well as any medication your cat takes on a regular basis. A photo of your pet is also good to keep with your emergency supplies, in case you are separated from your cat during the event, you'll have a way to get the word out to locate her.

A collar with an identification tag is one of those things that you might never need, but will wish you had if you need it and don't. Even if your cat is strictly and indoor pet, the unexpected could happen. A door or window is left ajar, or a natural disaster creates an opening in your home through which your frightened feline escapes.

Your cat's identity tag should include the following information

* Pet's name

* Owner's name and address

* Telephone numbers (day and evening)

* Medical problem requiring medication

* Veterinarian's name and number

* Current Rabies vaccination information

* Reward offer should pet become lost

Many people have their cats micro-chipped for identification. A small silicone chip containing the owner's contact information is painlessly inserted under the cat's skin. Most animal shelters automatically scan lost pets to read the owner contact information. However, if your cat is found by an average citizen an identification tag will speed up your reunion.

Pet Medication Supplies http://www.pet-medication-supplies.net can help you get the best possible supplies for your pet. Advantix, Arthramine, Cosequin, Frontline, Heartgard - find the best deals in pet medication for flea and tick control, arthritis and lyme disease. Upto 50% discount everyday on brand names.

Cat Condo - Tree Furniture For Outdoor And Indoor Cats

Cat condo, tree furniture both products are becoming a source of interest for both the seller and the buyer. Looking on line it seems that a search for these items gives a vast number of sites with varies styles, shapes and colors. Cat condo, tree furniture are two of the most search items on the internet today. Due to this one must take care to research a purchase online or in person at your favorite store.

You should look for something that fits into your home and will blend with your décor well. Also it should be a product that is well designed for your cat's personality. If you have lazy little guy a condo may be just the thing, if you have yourself a youngster, a tree retreat may be just what the kitten ordered. In some cases if you have the room, a combined piece with a built in cat box furniture may work very well for you and your cat. Modern cat furniture is becoming more complex and more stylish by the day, with very unique cat furniture appearing in the most unlikely places.

Blueprints for building cat furniture are also available for the creative carpenters out there. They cover tree furniture from a foot to the ceiling. Condo living for cats is a great way to go if you have more than one cat. This gives them their own space and lets them relax in the manner only a cat can.

Cats need exercise and it is a feline fact that kittens and cats need to climb and scratch. Giving them their own furniture to be comfortable in their environment helps not only the cat but the household in general. Also cats need to be high to rule their world and this type of furniture achieves that nicely.

Your furniture should be strong and steady when you cats are playing or moving about on it. If not your cat may reject your attempt at giving its own space to them. The material used should be something such as sisal due to the strength that a cat's claws can have. This material will hold up very well to your cat's abuse.

Cat condo, tree furniture can be a useful investment for your household. It can save your home from a bored cat and give your cat a place to call his or her castle and your kitten or cat will feel like king of the kingdom.

For more great info on cats and cat furniture, be sure to check out Bonnie's website http://www.unique-cat-furniture.com

Cat Feeders - Avoiding a Fat Cat While You're Gone

Cats, as we know, are generally independent animals. They don't need a lot of babysitting and coddling. They just want someone to make sure they have food, water and a cleaned litter box. Periodically, they'll take a little petting, when they want it. After that, they'll take care of themselves. But when you're going to be gone all day, or for a weekend, even those simple necessities can become problems. While some cats can be left overflowing cat feeders and only eat what they need, there are other cats that are lacking in feline self-control. These cats will eat and eat until the cat feeders run empty, they get sick, or both. At the same time, you don't want your cat to eat what you have put in their bowl right after you leave and have nothing for the rest of the time you are gone. The solution is automatic cat feeders.

Automatic cat feeders can come in one of two designs.

The first have a pre-measured reservoir of food that will release at a specific time for your cat. You

can decide the size of the serving the cat needs and set the timer for the mealtime you will be missing. When the clock strikes the time, the holding bin will release, pouring the next serving into your cats bowl.

The other style of automatic cat feeder has separate bowls of food that will pop open when the timer is triggered. These often have 2 or more bowls side-by-side that you can fill with food, snap the tops shut, and set the timer. Opening once at a time you can offer a series of feedings with this type of automatic cat feeder. These are a great option if you are going to be done a full day or two.

These automatic cat feeders are also good to have if you have a kitty who has packed on a few too many pounds over the past few months and needs to go on a diet. You can pre-measure small portions of food for your cat and get him accustomed to the periodic smaller portions that will be offered throughout the day. Just like people, smaller and more frequent portions of food can satiate a cat's appetite and help them get rid of the extra weight they've packed on.

There is another benefit of automatic feeders for the humans involved in the cat's life. If your morning ritual is comprised of the cat jumping on your bed and meowing until you're ready to get up and give him a meal, you may notice as the cat understands the cat feeder does this job by itself, he will also realize he doesn't need you to get up in order to receive a meal. It will take a little bit of a training time, but eventually your cat may even let you sleep in, on your day off, as long as the automatic cat feeder is set up to deliver the meal they are waiting for.

Jennifer Akre, owner of different online specialty shops featuring niche products and information for your home, sharers her insight on different items that can make your space both more functional and beautiful. Here, she provides consumers valuable advice when purchasing lavish cat furniture, durable cat houses, and awesome cat trees.

Reasons People Give Up Their Cat

I'm a cat owner, so I know what it's like to be attached to a furry little companion. I've also volunteered in an animal shelter, so I've had the chance to see what it's like to make the decision to surrender your pet. Nine times out of ten the decision isn't an easy one. But I still understand some reasons people have for giving up their cat. Here are just a few of those reasons.

Moving: Much of the time, the decision comes down to something as simple as having to move but being unable to take your cat with you. Let's say you get a job in another city and have to move, but the only apartment you can find doesn't allow pets. It comes down to having to surrender your cat, assuming you can't find a family member to take care of it until you can find another pet-friendly apartment.

Change of Lifestyle: Let's say you're having a baby but know that your cat is the curious and active type, enough so that they'll scratch and bite just about anything. This is a hazard to your newborn baby, as to your cat, so the choice rests on needing to look out for your child's wellbeing. Another instance is if you have a medical condition where you just can't take care of your cat anymore. These are perfectly reasonable situations to surrender your cat to a shelter.

Behavior Problems: Other times you discover that a cat's negative behaviors aren't going away with time, but instead getting worse. It's pretty common to have a cat that meows loudly in the middle of the night for seemingly no reason, leading to sleepless nights and general discomfort and dissatisfaction with your pet. The time needed to train the cat may not be available or the money required may be more than you can afford, so the only option left is to put it up for adoption. This isn't a matter of being lazy, it's just a matter of checking priorities. If you work two jobs and need sleep but don't have any time in the day to spend with your cat, leading them to pester you at night, needing to place the cat into a new home, a home that can devote the needed time to you cat, just makes sense.

Given the option, most cat owners would always opt to keep their felines around rain or shine. But we don't always have that luxury. Keep an open mind about pet owners surrendering their cats, as it could be a situation you yourself find later on in your life.

For more cat information or tips about cat health, head over to SimplyCatBreeds.org today!

How the Experts Set a Feeding Schedule For Their Cats

There are two feeding options available to cat owners - free feeding (also known as self feeding) and scheduled feeding. You can allow your cat or kitten to self feed by leaving a portion of dry food out all day. Your feline will be able to eat or snack whenever he wants. This is a good option for people who are at work odd hours. However, this type of feeding could lead to weight gain. If your cat eats all day because he is bored or lonely, he may become overweight.

If you feed canned food, you will have to set up a regular feeding schedule so that it does not spoil. You can feed your cat according to your own schedule, such as before you go to work or when you come home in the evening. Keep in mind, however, that once you set this schedule, you must stick to it. Your pet will rely on you for a regular feeding time. Kittens need to eat often, so if you use schedules feedings for a kitten, you will have to give him food several times a day.

Some owners do a combination of free feeding and schedules feeding. Before they leave for work, they put out a small portion of dry food for daytime consumption, and when they return home at the end of the day, they offer a schedules feeding portion. This sets up a routine for the cat and allows him to snack if he becomes hungry when his owner is not at home.

If you practice scheduled feedings and go away for a weekend trip or a vacation, someone will have to come to your house and feed your cat at the scheduled feeding times. A cat who free feeds on dry food may be left enough food for an overnight trip or a weekend.

Having your child help you to feed the cat is a great way for the child and cat to bond with each other. Depending on the age of the child, she can be given different responsibilities when it comes to feeding time. Younger children can get the food dishes out, choose a can of food, or refill the water bowl each day. Older children can feed the cat, either scooping out the correct portion or giving him the bowl at the appropriately schedules time each day.

When feeding the cat, explain to your child how much food he needs and how often. You can even have her draw up a feeding chart or schedule that shows when it is feeding time. Always supervise your child when she is feeding a pet and remember to teach her that the cat should not be disturbed when he is eating. Allowing your child to feed a pet and learn how to take care of him properly teaches responsible pet ownership from an early age.

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What Is the Typical Cat Vaccination Cost?

Pet lovers should know how to take care of their animals. Having your own pet does not consist of just raising them in your house without any knowledge on what would be the pros and cons. Animals have their own characteristics and might attack a person when not monitored properly. A famous pet that is commonly found inside a home is a cat. People love to raise cats inside their house because they are very friendly and have very beautiful furs that make them lovable and huggable. Proper grooming is the first important thing that an owner should be aware of. Aside from this, an owner has many responsibilities in raising a cat. They have to provide a cat food every month, a litter box and litter, neutering or spray and its vaccination. In determining the cost of your cat's vaccination, you should be aware of the laws about cats and their rabies in your area first.

Taking a look at the price...

The cost of cat's vaccination will reach up to $80 per one year of complete vaccination. However, there are veterinary clinics who offer lower prices than this depending on how much rabies your cats have. Some ranges from $50-$70 with additional fees after your cats are done with the first year of complete vaccination. By checking the amount of rabies your cats have, the clinic will know what type of vaccines they will give to your pets. For kittens, they have different periods of vaccination. They will start at seven weeks, which includes calcivirus, feline distemper and rhinotracheitis and other vaccines will be injected after at 12 to 13 weeks. Having a cat inside your house is like raising your own baby.

Like infants, they also need proper care and necessary protection to stay longer and free from any harm. Cats that are exposed to other pets outside will need an extra shot and that is an additional cost of almost $10. Having your pets vaccinated in a certain clinic will cost you more. Therefore, if you want to save money, you may order vaccines online and try applying vaccines to your cats on your own. Just see to it that you really know the procedure.

To save money, be sure to call up a few vet clinics. You're going to find that when you call up a few vet offices that you're going to be able to save a few bucks. The Humane Society is also a great company to consider. If you average $80, this should be more than enough to get your vaccinations for the cat.

Find the cat vaccination cost in your area as well as what other people are paying at HowMuchIsIt.

A Look at the Cat Genie Self-Washing, Self-Flushing Cat Box

A litter box that cleans itself is like a dream come true. Wouldn't you agree? Who really enjoys doing the necessary but dirty task? This is exactly why the Cat Genie self-washing and self-flushing cat litter box was invented.

Features

Unlike other self-cleaning models that only require power, the Cat Genie hooks up to your home's plumbing. It comes with all the necessary hardware to do this. You will need to provide the tools. Because it uses water to rinse and clean and flush you will never have to worry about washing the box.

Settings can be changed to fit your lifestyle. You can set it to clean once a day, twice a day, or automatically after a cat has used it. It also has a manual flush button for times when you want to give it an extra cycle. This is useful for those times when you have guests coming over and the box is still dirty.

Considerations

The cleaning cycle does take a bit of time, approximately half an hour's worth. If you have multiple cats you have to be careful of this. If it is cleaning and another cat needs to use it, he will have to hold it. For some cats, they don't mind waiting, but others can't hold it at all. You can either have a couple Cat Genie's around or provide regular boxes as backup, just in case.

The smell may be bad during cleaning because it needs to chop apart the solid wastes so it can be flushed down your drain. Some people have added plumbing to their garage because of this.

Do Cats Like It?

Some do, and some don't. The texture of the special granules can be startling for some felines.

Most cats take to the Cat Genie with no problems. Everybody is happier for it. The cats love it because it is cleaner and their humans are happier because they no longer have to scoop!

The Cat Genie

It is a truly hands-off approach to litter box care.

bestcatcareproducts.com

Alternative Ways to Prevent Your Cat from Spraying

Cat spraying can cause some nasty stains and odors if not taken care of. One of the best solutions in removing cat urine stains and odors is by preventing the problem. In order to do that, you must first ask your self why your cat is spaying. Yes, there is more than one reason.

Before you can do this however, you need to first understand that cat spraying is a marking behavior and not a litter box problem.

So why do cats spray?

There are numerous reasons why cats spray. The following reasons can include marking for territory, sexual encounters or when they are in conflict with other felines.

By understanding these reasons, you are in effect able to possibly prevent your cat from spraying.

Let us take a look at how shall we.

In order to try and prevent your cat from spraying, you need to first find out which one of the reasons mentioned above fits your cats profile. Generally your vet will advise you on neutering or spaying your cat. However, before taking this route, first consider the following options;

If your cat is spraying because of a conflict problem with another cat or pet, try keeping them separated. If your cat is spraying because it sees another cat, try doing everything you can to block your cats view. If in the end you find that all attempts are futile, then most likely you will have to take the advice of your vet.

As sad as the last option may seem, it can also save your house from bad stains and odors that could potentially cost you a lot of money in the long run as you find yourself continuously purchasing pet urine cleaning products that might or might not take care of the problem, and ultimately leading you to have no choice but replace your ruined carpet or furniture, just to find it getting ruined in the same manner as the previous one.

So, as you can see, prevention is by far better than the cure when it comes to dealing with your cat spraying.

By Paul Ghossain

You can find more information on cat urine cleaners and other related topics at http://www.peturineaway.com/cat-urine-cleaner.html

Everything You Should Know About Cat Scratching Post

Cats are naturally fond of scratching things. They tend to hook up their claws to surfaces and scratch them. This way they can sharpen their claws and remove old materials from it. This can also be a mark for territory. A scent gland in their paws mark the territory they want to contain. Also it serves as means of exercise for their muscles. They can scratch on your walls or worse, on your expensive furniture. This is the most problematic behavior of a cat because it poses a great deal of damage to you. That is why having a scratch post is of the essence when it comes to caring for your cat.

A scratching post is any wooden post that is mostly rough. Its purpose is to divert the attention of your cat thus preventing them from scratching on your furniture. The most common type of scratching post is the wooden ones. It usually measures 60-90 centimeters. It is mostly covered with rough fabric. Having a rough surface separates your scratching post so any other furniture in your house. It has wide base that allows a stable support that it would not trip off when your pet scratches on to it and it also allows your cat to fully extend their body thus keeping their body fit. Surfaces may vary depending on the kind of cat your have or your own personal preference. Most of the pet owners go for a corrugated cardboard surface. There are also posts that are more elaborated such as some containing several levels of horizontal platforms that promote your cats to climb on it and also there are some with a cave-like area where cats can go inside and hide. There are also variations like designing it to be tall and have tension rods that reach to your ceiling to make it even more stable. The likes of this are often called "cat trees". There are also cat scratch post that are simple. Surfaces of it consist of a piece of carpet turned upside down and also it can be flat surface with a pad of woven sisal with a loop. This way, it can be hung on a doorknob or anywhere you like. Others made it from corrugated finger board. Cat scratcher can be found in most pet supply stores and also online. But most of the pet owners tend to build their own and customize their cat scratching post.

The more important thing than a cat scratch post mentioned above is the basic knowledge in taking care of your beloved pet feline. Mostly, training your cat is completed within 6 months. You can find many tutorials regarding trainings of your cat in the Internet. Trainings of such includes how to train them to litter in there litter box. Knowing the basics in keeping your litter box clean may be helpful also. As we all know, they have the most disturbing litter smell of all the domesticated animals found in your home. Among the things mention above, the most essential is how an owner understands the different behaviors of their cat and being patient enough when it comes to training them. They may not learn the things you wanted them to learn immediately. But with proper behavior modification techniques and rewarding them when they perform well, surely your pet will amaze you on how fast they will improve.

Ella Hall enjoys writing for Thecatpetshop.com which sells cat scratching post and cat scratcher as well as a host of additional products.

What Every Prospective and Current Cat Owner Should Know About Litter Boxes

The smells, clean-up and in fact litter box problems are probably the most common reason people reject cat ownership or established cat owners give up their cats. With a little knowledge about how the cats instinctively take care of their business and providing the proper setting helps solve this issue. One of the biggest myths about cat ownership is the constant smell of having a litter box in the house.

Most cats prefer the sand like texture of clumping litters. Cats are very fastidious about where and when they prefer to eliminate. Moving around the litter box when the first location doesn't seem to be working takes a bit of patience but ultimately the owner and the cat's location preferences will become solved. If there are no options for where to place the litter box there are several ways to disguise or change the looks which may solve the issue. As litter boxes are now are available in all shapes and sizes, the answer may be as simple as a new litter box.

Changing the litter with regularity can solve most problems especially the smells and the cat's desire to take their business elsewhere. Cats are extremely sensitive to the texture of the litter and also have an excellent sense of smell. Either one of these issue may create dissent. Changing the type of litter easily solves the former problem while keeping the litter box cleaned often can eliminate the latter problem. Worrying about offending guest with the odor of a cat box is easy to solve and I know this to be true. We have a friend who adopted an entire litter of 7 kittens when the mother cat was killed. This was over fifteen years ago and the cats have lived within his home the entire time as he did not want to risk their safety to coyotes or cars. There has never been an occasion that I have entered his home and smelled even the slightest odor suggesting he has house cats. His solution is cleaning out his multiple cat boxes at least once per day. Please keep in mind he has 7 fully grown cats now.

When a cat suffers from a medical problem it is not unusual for them to eliminate outside their litter box or designated area. Crystals in the urine or a urinary infection can be extremely painful to felines. Cats often associate this pain to the litter box and begin to avoid the area in hopes of avoiding the pain. If your cat begins to eliminate away from their box with regularity this is a red flag that a trip to the vet is in order.

Cats are not very social when it comes to where they use the potty. Very often the cats prefer their own box and if possible in a different location than each other. Keeping the boxes separated can prevent location avoidance problems by one of the cats.

The best place for locating you cat's box is somewhere private and quiet preferably where the cat will not be ambushed by its brethren or disturbed by small children. Noisy areas like those near washing machines furnaces or under stairs may make this an undesirable location for the cat.

Once you have successfully found a location you and your kitty are happy with do not change the liter, the boxes location and keep the same box. Cats are creatures of habit and dislike change. Like they say "if it's not broken don't fix it."

There is one over-riding reason why a cat stops using their litter box and that is because of cleanliness. You may think that everything looks great but remember the view that matters is the cats. If you can smell the odor from the litter box then you can be sure your cat is repulsed. We recommend that the litter is scooped once per day and replaced every 4-5 days including cleaning the box. Once the box is cleaned allow it to air dry or preferably dry-out in the sun. This drying method is good for 2 reasons, the first is killing germs and the second is the fresh air smell eliminates any need of perfume which most cats find distasteful. Of course these are only guidelines as large cats that are oversized may have different needs than smaller cats. Also types of food and selection of litter may have an effect on your schedule.

When you bring a new cat home we recommend that you confine the new addition to one room where their litter box is located. Remember to provide food and water. Once the cat has used the litter box several times and appears calm and ready to explore the rest of the surrounding give them a bit more freedom until they have become fully acclimated to their new home. Also be sure to give a bit of thought as to where you place the cat and its litter box for the initial period because the litter box should not move for the reasons given earlier.

When you bring a other cat to your home a stressful situation is unavoidable. The new cat may mark his new territory by urinating or defecating away from their litter box.

If you catch your cat in the act of urinating or defecating away from its litter box try and get their attention by a firm voice or clapping your hands. Try not to scare the cat but only get their attention and then place the cat on the floor near the appropriate litter box.

Never punish your cat for eliminating outside of his or her litter box. There may be many reasons why the cat chose not to use the box such as the litter being dirty, a medical problem, loud noises and many other causes but punishment will more than likely backfire. Animals do not understand punishment even if it is only seconds after the event. This may be counter to your thinking but punishment to a cat will do more harm than good.

Travis and Diane Medley own and operate http://www.thecattreesite.com and a blog " The Scratching Post " which is dedicated to cats, cat trees, towers condos and supplies. Like many pet lovers Travis and Diane support the ethical and humane treatment of animals. They also advocate no-kill shelters and donate money to local and national pet causes.

Myth Or Reality? 4 Interesting Facts About Cats

Animal lovers often get cats as pets but are not aware of the various factors that make this animal special. Given the vast amount of information available today, several facts are marked as trivia and forgotten. However, these are important facts that will truly make you understand the special value attached to your pet. Today, you will be able to find online resources as well as books about cats that are filled with important information that can help you to understand the special nature of your pet.

One of the primary facts about cats is their life expectancy. If you have read books about cats from a long time ago, it might have listed the average life expectancy of felines to be about 12 years. But with professional medical care available today together with the love and attention showered on them by their owners, domestic cats have been known to live as long as a whopping 18 to 20 years!

Secondly, most people believe that cats are loners. However, this is often far from the truth. In reality, cats are extremely friendly and love attention. In fact, they often play homogenously whenever they are in a group! This is largely due to the most dominant cat being elected leader while the others are happy to simply follow it. Not only do cats love interacting with humans, most breeds even require more attention than dogs.

Most pet owners also believe that it is nearly impossible to train cats. However if you just take a look around at various books and online resources, you'll know that this is not true. While it is not possible to have the same expectations on training with all breeds of cats, there are some that respond extremely well to training. In fact, it is even possible to toilet train cats if you know how to and have the patience for it. This is perhaps the reason why there are several cats in show business today.

Another myth about cats is that they only require dry food, which is not just untrue but is even bizarre. In fact, regular meat in their meals is important not only for the protein content but also for the moisture. In addition, you should always try to make fresh water available to your cat, which is important for maintaining proper hydration of its body.

No matter how these myths come about, it is always important to have the proper knowledge and information on hand as this will help you to take care of your pet in a better and more informed way.

Visit our website today and discover valuable tips for training a kitten or if you are planning to toilet train cats! Do not forget to sign up for your 7-part mini-course absolutely free for a limited time only!

The Benefits of Buying a Cat Tree

Many people enjoy keeping cats as pets because they bring joy and contentment. They make great pets because they take care of themselves and are relatively low-maintenance, especially when compared to dogs. However, there are certain things about cats that can cause frustration to their owners. For example, they are known for their scratching habits in which they sharpen their claws on furniture, rugs and woodwork. If you have one that likes to use your furniture as a scratching post, you might consider buying a cat tree.

Cat trees come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you're sure to find a piece of cat furniture that will fit the needs of your cat. Additionally, the wide range that is available ensures that you will be able to find a piece of furniture that fits into the decor of your home. Even smaller cat trees take up a good bit of space, so it is important to choose a model that is the right size for its intended place. Additionally, you should buy a cat house that is the right size for your feline; while smaller cats will be okay with a basic model, larger cats and adult cats will likely need a cat condo or a cat skyscraper.

In addition to giving your pet somewhere to relax, not to mention a specified place in which he can mark his territory, a cat tree serves to preserve your home. In addition to saving your furniture and woodwork, cat trees also reduce the incidence of hair around your home. If your pet lounges and plays in a specified area, you will experience less hair on your furniture. In short, supplying your pet with his own area will help to keep the rest of your home tidy and free from excess wear and mess.

A cat tree is the perfect solution for cat lovers who do not wish to de-claw their pets. In addition to giving your pet his own territory in which to play, sleep and scratch, cat trees help you to keep your home clean and looking new and fresh. The vast variety of options that are available will ensure that you are able to find a piece of furniture that fits the decor of your home and gives your cat a place to act like an animal.

As a long-time pet owner, Julie is passionate about supporting animal health and wellness. As a board member of her local rescue league, she understands the value proper mental and physical stimulation offers indoor cats in particular. Julie's Siamese cats, Sissy and Missy, enjoy the indoor life thanks to cat towers and cat trees from Ace Cat Furniture.

Indoor or Outdoor, Which Is Better For Your Cat

Cats are unique to dogs in that most times, letting your cat wandering the neighborhood at night is perfectly acceptable. But have you decided whether to let your cat be an indoor-only cat or to allow them some outdoor freedoms? Here are a few things you should consider.

Most cats will want to go outside no matter what you ultimately choose for them, but some, specifically cats that have previously been allowed outside, can make things even more complicated. It's almost as if they don't particularly care about your decision either way. Therefore, the best thing you can do for yourself and the anxiety of your cat is to stay consistent from birth with them, or at the very least from the point where you adopt them. It is easier to convince a cat to stay indoors at all times if you've been keeping them inside since they were a kitten.

The upsides of making a cat an indoor-only feline are pretty numerous. First, this will reduce a lot of dangers in your cat's life. Cars, coyotes, and cat-based diseases are all that common inside your house. Because of this, indoor-only cats have on average a much longer lifespan than a cat that's lived outside his whole life, or even part of it. Indoor cats are also cleaner and have almost no chance of dragging in an unwanted dead mouse or bird or rolling in dirt and tracking it inside on your carpet.

However, keeping your cat indoors at all times will increase the need to clean the litter box as they won't have any other option for taking care of their waste. Outdoor cats have a lot more "natural" places to do their business, but an indoor-only cat has just the one (hopefully not also including your sneakers). Outdoor cats are also generally thinner as they're far more active than indoor cats. This is mostly because of the limiting space a house can provide, as well as the increased level of activities in the outside world.

The tough choice then is really all up to longevity, though nothing guarantees a long life no matter what you do. I've seen indoor-only cats fall ill and pass away at young ages and outdoor-only cats stay around for years and years. My sad personal experience has an indoor/outdoor cat turned indoor-only cat passing away at only seven-years-old from getting out one night and drinking some anti-freeze someone had placed on their doorstep because they were unhappy with all the cats in the neighborhood. Basically, there's no telling what will happen.

Therefore, look at the options you have available to you and plan accordingly. Will your cat be happier inside or outside? Do you live near a busy street or in the country? Do you mind a dead snake on your doorstep every now and then? Just remember to choose wisely.

For more cat information and information about cat training, head over to SimplyCatBreeds.org today!

Holistic Cat Food

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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