Showing posts with label Cat. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Cat. Show all posts

Sunday, October 18, 2020

An Overview of the Costs of PET ADOPTION

Busted!!
Photo by Woody H1

You can know the costs of pet adoption before you commit to it. The easiest option may be to open your PC and connect to the World Wide Web. You must remember that your choice of animals will depend a lot on the lifestyle that you are leading. Adoption centres can help you with the process of finding the right one for you. They are also concerned about the well-being of the animals after they have left the centre. So as much as possible, they want the right pets to land on the right hands


Does it already sound like a dating game wherein people are being matched according to their traits and preferences? Well, that is very much true. As the pet owner, you must also make sure that when you already acquired the animal, you must do everything in your capacity to look out for its well-being. Now it is already sounding more like parenting, right? But this shouldn’t scare you. Pets bring lots of joy for those who are open to accepting them with loving arms.

But before your thoughts go as far as the many advantages of being a pet owner, you must first be informed about the costs that it would take for you to find the right pet.

1. In calculating the annual costs of owning a pet through adoption, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals suggests that the following items must be included: food, treats, toys, required licensing if any, medical treatment and vaccinations. They have come up with the following figures for the pets listed below.

• Fish will cost about $20. The aquarium’s prices differ from $20 to $200 and even higher depending on the quality and the features.
• The prices of dogs will differ depending on the size and breed. A medium built may cost about $600 while a large built can be up to $800. 
• Rabbits are easy to deal with. But the costs for this type can be up to $700.
• Cats may be within the range of $500 to $600.
• The prices of birds will also depend on the size and type. A small one can cost about $100 to $150.

After you have acquired these pets, it is your responsibility to provide for their shelter, fun and training if you want. You may want to purchase cages for your pets, training bundles and dog crates. The costs for these can range from $80 to $500.

2. You must also be prepared for unexpected conditions such as accidents and sudden medical problems. You must save up for your pets as well for you to be able to afford the treatments in such conditions.



3. To give you a detailed sample of the costs of adopting a pet, here’s one example where you can base your decisions from. As stated previously, the annual costs that you may incur from owning a cat can reach from $500 to $600. And why is that? Here is the breakdown. The cost of adopting an adult cat is $60. The prices vary from location and the breed of the feline that you choose. If you will buy cats from pet stores, the prices may range from $150 up to $1000. The cats from the centre have been neutered ($30 up to $80) or spayed ($45 to $90). The vaccinations for its first year can be about $150 to $300. Cats must also undergo FeLV or Feline Aids and FELV or Feline Leukemia testing that can be about $50 to $80 per test.

But the costs of pet adoption must not discourage you from being a pet owner. The joys your pets will add to your life will make it all worthwhile.



Sunday, September 6, 2020

Information Regarding the American WIREHAIR CAT

English: American Wirehair cat sitting in a ca...
American Wirehair cat sitting in a cat show. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
American Wirehair is a domestic feline that was first seen in the mid-nineteen sixties in the United States when two otherwise normal cats produced kittens with curled 'wiry' hair. An interested breeder took to their development and after some years of dedicated efforts, litters with consistent physical and behavioral traits were born. Registration came soon afterward and the cat was accepted for championship status by the late seventies. 

Even as the cat has been exported to European nations, its spontaneous mutation occurred only in the United States, a fact that surprises some geneticists. Since American Wirehairs evolved from a single ancestor, they are periodically outcrossed with American Shorthairs to maintain diversity in their gene pool.

Physically the pretty cats resemble American Shorthairs to an extent. They are well-built cats with good physical development. The wire-like hair is often not seen uniformly in litters. They may even change in character with age. The coat can range from short and dense to curly and spiked. It is generally very soft though and may occur in any color like the eyes. Cheekbones are well developed, giving the eyes a slanted appearance.

Even the whiskers of the American Wirehairs are like curled up wires. Owing to their wiry hair these cats are prone to an oily coat. They also get allergic readily and may lose hair under stress, and thus require regular grooming and maintenance. It is best to keep them indoors. Also, it is suggested that their ears be swabbed regularly since they often accumulate wax.
American Wirehairs are very people-oriented and affectionate.



They totally adore their owners and shadow them everywhere they go. Like most cats, they have a pleasant temperament and are tolerant of other pets. Active and vigorous animals, American Wirehairs just love to play and have fun in a calm indoor environment.



Monday, April 27, 2020

Curing BAD CAT BREATH

English: Cat with broken teeth. Magyar: Macska...
Cat with broken teeth. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Cat owners know for a fact that bad cat breath can be downright awful.  It isn’t that much different from bad human breath, as both are caused by bacteria found in the mouth that breaks protein down and releases the sulfur compounds out into the air.  Sulfur smells really bad on its own, which is why breath containing it smells bad as well.  The bacterium that causes bad breath with cats is normally associated with a buildup of tartar around the teeth.  Tartar is yellow in color, known as a coating of bacteria, food, and minerals.

To cure your cat of bad breath, you’ll need to remove the buildup of tartar.  There are several cat foods out there that are designed to reduce the buildup of tartar, many containing enzymes that will literally dissolve it.  You can also give your cat treats as well, as many of them will help eliminate and prevent tartar.  If the buildup of tartar is bad, you may need to have your cat’s teeth professionally cleaned.  Once the tartar has been removed, the bad breath will go away.

You may be able to clean the tartar off your cat’s teeth at home.  There are several kinds of toothpaste available for pets, available in several different flavors.  You’ll need to get a mechanical toothbrush, as the motion is very important for removing tartar buildup.  Toothpaste that contains enzymes will dissolve tartar, helping to cure bad breath.  If you start early with brushing your cat’s teeth, you can virtually eliminate any type of tartar buildup that will ultimately lead to bad breath.

Some bacteria that lead to tartar can be found in your cat’s diet.  When you feed him, you should always make sure that the food he consumes doesn’t contain a lot of bacteria.  If you shop healthy and feed him only healthy foods, it can help his bad breath a great deal.  When you give your pet a treat, make sure that the treatment is designed to help with tartar.  After your cat has finished eating, you can brush his teeth or rinse his mouth out.  This way, you’ll get the bacteria out of his mouth before it has time to build upon his teeth.



Sometimes, cats may have a bad odor in their mouth that doesn’t come from tartar or bad breath in general.  In these rare cases, it can be either liver or kidney disease.  If you notice bad breath and it isn’t tartar, you should take your cat to the vet.  Even though it may be something to do with tartar, it’s better to be safe than sorry.  Your veterinarian can pinpoint the problem, let you know what the cause is – and how you should go about fixing it.



Monday, April 1, 2019

CAT CLAW Survival Solutions To The Rescue!

Cat using scratch pad made of corrugated cardb...
Cat using a scratch pad made of corrugated cardboard/fiberboard. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Cats can be ill-tempered and mean on their worst days, but even the most annoying problems have a remedy somewhere. If your cat is clawing your furniture, your carpet, and your legs with the same ferocity, understanding the how and why behind the behavior can help you redirect your feline friend’s clawing instinct to be expressed in less destructive ways.


So why IS your cat clawing everything in sight?

Here’s the jaw-dropper: a cat’s claws never stop growing. Let me repeat that: They NEVER stop growing. When I found that out, a big light went off in my head. Just like a pet hamster that constantly needs to knaw on wood to keep their teeth from growing too long, what cats are actually doing when they sharpen their claws is removing the outermost layer of their claws. O.K. Kitty Cat, we finally get it!

So what to do? What to do?

The first thought bubble that forms is to scoop kitty up for a little declawing action at the nearest vet’s office. But before you take such a drastic step, keep in mind that once those claws are gone, they’re GONE. Take away those claws, and you’re taking away your pet’s primary form of defense. Even if you have an indoor cat like I do, chances are, sooner or later, a window of opportunity is going to open up just long enough for your cat to slip outside and be vulnerable to attacks from other animals and people.

O.K. So now you know why your cat is actually using you as a scratching post. Let’s move away from the word “using”. In a way, it’s kind of flattering. That doesn’t make it hurt any less. Let’s get your cat to branch out. It’s time to get a REAL scratching post so that your pet can get into the habit of using it instead of YOU, whenever those claw sharpening impulses may strike.

So how do we get kitty to break her bad habits and start to use the proper place where she can scratch to her heart’s content?


The answer lies in you.

That is of course IF you are your cat’s favorite person in the family.

If so, then try hanging an article of clothing that belongs to you on your virgin scratching post. The idea is to make the area smell familiar. A day or two should be enough for your cat to become accustomed to its’new scratching outlet.

Don’t want to part with something from your wardrobe? Time to get a little sneakier then. Catnip can be your secret weapon. Sprinkle catnip over the scratching post and watch what happens. This one may be even worth breaking out the video camera for.

This next option sounds a little weird, but believe me, it WORKS!

Try sprinkling the post area with powdered chicken bouillon. The idea is to get the cat to feel friendly enough toward the scratching post to attack it.

While your cat is making the transition to a designated area for scratching, there are several ways to make your cat’s favorite scratching areas a lot less attractive. This will help ease the transition from the old spots to the new.

Sprinkle fresh lemon juice over them. Cover or wrap the areas in aluminum foil. Remember what it felt like when your fingernails went down the chalkboard? Ever try it again? Cats will experience the same thing and be deterred from using the areas. Finally, clean the areas well to eradicate any cat odor. This will go a long way toward removing the aura of familiarity that creates the habit of using the space. Also, just keep the doors closed to make those places inaccessible to the cat.

Now that you know more about the how and why of your cat’s clawing instinct and behavior, take these simple steps and you’ll soon see a resolution to the cat clawing issues in your household. With a little time and patience, your cat’s claw sharpening activities should be limited to its’favorite spot: the scratching post!



Monday, December 10, 2018

What To Know About A CRAZY CAT Lady

None - This image is in the public domain and ...
 (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Cats are popular among pet owners. Dogs and cats are among the most common household pets that people have around the globe. There are numerous reasons why people like cats and some may own multiple. Crazy cat lady is used to describe a women who dote on these felines. She may have these as her own pets or take in any that she comes into contact with. The term is often used in a derogatory way, but not everyone considers this to be a negative thing.

In some cultures and regions, women with cats are considered spinsters. This is particularly the case when they have no husband, children and multiple cats. Many have come to associate these women with people who have trouble being in relationships or finding partners.

Cat lady is often a term that is linked to those who are also animal hoarders. That is, people who have a large number of cats. Many times they have so many that they are unable to properly care for them and they are often ill. Usually these animal hoarders suffer with other mental illnesses that make them unaware of the dangers they are creating for themselves and the animals. They are usually ignorant to the severity of their situation and often interventions of some sort are needed to get the person and the cats the help they need.

There have been famous cat ladies in pop culture and even documentaries or movies that highlight these feline-loving women. Still, this is not considered a positive title to have. Cat lady syndrome is becoming a more commonly used term that is backed by some scientific research.

Studies have found a parasite that is present in some cats. It is known as Toxoplasma gondii and it is associated with mental and behavioral disorders in people. Some suggest that this can have a big affect on the health of cat owners, especially of those who have multiple felines living in their home.

Risk is heightened when dealing with multiple cats, many that are ill. Hoarding cats is expected to result in negative impacts on physical and mental health of pets and owners. It can also lead to problems with the animals and keep them from living happy and healthy lives. Some cats die. Those who survive are often extremely ill. Typically the homes are unclean and owners cannot properly care for each one of the cats.

Those who know people like this should seek help for them. Most of the time they are unaware of the need for changes. In fact, they are often under the false belief that they have control of this situation. This is why interventions are so common in these situations.

Those who are in these positions are often not mentally well. They can benefit from support by others, including medical professionals. It is also important to intervene for the sake of the animals. Although it is not the intent of the cat lady to harm the animals, they do so in these situations. Owning too many animals is unsanitary and problematic, no matter how much care and attention the cats are receiving. People should report cat ladies to help them.


    About the Author: by Olive Pate


Saturday, December 8, 2018

Fact Sheet: MAINE COON CAT

(Original Title: Maine Coon Cat Breed Facts)

English: A Maine Coon cat.
A Maine Coon cat. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Maine Coon cats, the official state cat in Maine, are one of the oldest breeds in North America. As one of the largest breeds, these cats can weigh between 15 to 20+ pounds. Its distinctive characteristics include a long, thick tail; muscular body; broad chest; and tufted ears. Because of their friendly temperament, they are nicknamed "Gentle Giants" by their owners.

Maine Coon History
Their origins are unknown though several popular stories have been passed along the years. One story involves Capt. Charles Coon, an English captain who frequently traveled to New England with long-haired cats aboard his ship. Upon docking, the cats mated with local feral cats and produced lots of offspring. Townspeople referred to the strays as "Coon's cats".

Another folktale involves Queen of France, Marie Antoinette, who attempted an escape with Capt. Samuel Clough in 1793. Her prized possessions, including six beloved cats, were stashed on Clough's ship. Though she didn't escape her beheading, her cats arrived safely in Massachusetts. The cats were described with similar characteristics to the cooncat. Breeders consider the cats' ancestry to go back to the 11th century with the Vikings. History shows the breed existed in the 1800s as a hunting and domestic cats.

In 1967, the breed was officially recognized as a unique breed of domestic cat.




Maine Coon Weight and Size
Maine Coon cats can weigh between 9 to 18 pounds. Males typically weight between 13 to 18 pounds, while females average 9 to 12 pounds. Their large, body shape, rectangle-build, and long hair make them look even larger. They are not full-grown until they reach 3 to 5 years of age. Adults can reach 10 to 16 inches in height.

Their length can be up to 40 inches, including their tails which can be 14 inches long.

Maine Coon Personality
They have several distinctive features, including their long, bushy tail; tufted ears; large, expressive eyes; and ruff around their neck (like a lion). Their eyes are green, gold, green-gold, or copper colors. Their coat is soft and comes in every color and pattern, except pointed patterns, like the Siamese. Their thick fur is shorter on their front legs and shoulders and longer on their back, perches, stomach, and tail. Their tail is often as long as their body.





They have a squared muzzle. They are nicknamed "Gentle Giants" for their affectionate, loving behavior. They are not lapping cats, though they enjoy following family members to offer help with any projects. Their playful nature continues in adulthood. Their distinctive meow -- a chirping sound -- lets owners know when they want their attention, to play, or to mate. They are great pets for families. Generally, they are indoor cats, and they enjoy interacting with people.

Saturday, November 3, 2018

Instructions To Leave For The Individual Who Is CAT SITTING

Orange and white tabby cat sitting on fallen l...
Orange and white tabby
(Photo credit: 
Wikipedia)
When you are leaving a pet with someone else for some time, you can be better sure of the animal getting the care they need when you leave instructions. There may be routines that the creature has, certain foods to eat and so on. The same can be said about cat sitting. It is important to leave adequate directions so that the individual can take care of the beloved critter while you are away, no matter how long you are gone for. There are various types of things that you may need to have done to ensure the cat's health and safety.

As with family members, there are sometimes routines or habits that you form with your pets. You might feed them at a certain time of day or a particular kind of food. You may let the animals go outside in some cases as well. If you have a cat and you want to go away from Sacramento, CA for a while, it is important that you share this information with the caretaker.

To do this, you can tell them when you have a discussion with them but you may also want to write down these details. In this manner, they can have something to refer back to if they need to. You can also experience a little peace of mind knowing they have the directions with them.

There may be specific points to include on the list of instructions. The food that should be given to the pet is one aspect. Perhaps there are certain times and amounts that the nourishment needs to be given. In some cases, simply placing the food in an accessible area may be enough.

In the case the furry friend has to take medications, the caretaker should know how to administer it. You may want to show the individual how to do this and how much to administer. You are urged to let the person know and to write down the dosage amount and frequency. This should be done for each medication if there is more than one.

It is advised that there is always fresh water put out for the pet. The liquid should be placed in an area that the creature is used to and that is easily accessible. The water needs to be changed on a daily basis to ensure that it is clean. This is one direction that you may want to have listed.

If there are any areas of the home that are easy for such animals to squeeze into and get stuck, you should mention this and have these areas barred off. This can be done before you leave but ensure that the individual knows about this. It can also be discussed concerning keeping the doors shut properly so that the pet doesn't get out when it's not supposed to.

When you are leaving your furry friend, you want to be sure that the person taking care of them knows exactly what to do. For this reason, it can be a good idea to give them verbal and written instructions. Such directions may include when to feed the animal if there are any medications to administer, where to place fresh water and more. There are numerous points that may be included on such a list.


    About the Author: Tammie Caldwell     

Wednesday, October 24, 2018

How To Make Sure Your NEW CAT Will Be At Home In Your Home

Cats, Kitten
Cats, Kitten (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Buying a cat is a big decision. Do you have time to look after her? Is your home or apartment suitable for a pussycat? Are there any health issues you need to think about, and are your family members ready for a new addition to the family? Find out from someone who has plenty of experience.

Are you thinking that you would like to purchase a cat?  If so, you may want to take a few minutes to find out if you are in fact good cat owner material.  Finding out that the beautiful pussycat isn’t for you is something that you don’t want to have to do once you bring him home.

Health First

One of the many reasons that people have to find new homes for their pets is because of allergies.  If you haven’t been around cats much, make sure that you take the time to spend a few hours around one.  Also, ensure that none of your close family members or friends have the same problem.

Is your lifestyle right for a pet?  Cats are less in need of constant attention unlike the dog but they still need to be kept from being lonely and bored. If you work long hours, consider getting two cats so that they can keep each other happy. If you have a bored cat, you will have a bad cat.

Does your cat fit within your home?   If you have kids in your home, the litter box will need to be placed in a place the kids can’t get to it but the cats can access it easily. You’ll also need a litter box, food dishes, toys and a scratching post.

What type of cat do you want?  Sure a kitten is nice and fluffy and you can instantly fall in love with it.  But, kittens need to be trained too.  And, a great reason to go with a kitten is the fact that he doesn’t have any bad habits just yet.  But, you will likely need to have them altered and de-clawed as well.  You’ll need to pay for immunizations too.  On the other hand, an older can is a good choice for those who want a cat with less energy and one that is already trained to the litter box.  Older cats have had most of their immunizations (will still require boosters though) and they will likely have been altered already.

Where To Buy Him

If you are not worried about the breed of the cat, then the best place to look in the local humane society or the animal rescue in your area.  Most cats in these organizations are healthy and sweet kittens and cats.  And, since the organizations are overrun with them, you can help to give one a home.  If you are looking for something specific, a cat show is a great place to go.  Many of those there will bring kittens along for sale.  If you can’t find them there, the exhibitors will be able to tell you where you can find them.

Great!  You have your cat, now what?  Don’t be surprised if it takes some time for the cat to settle into its new home.  And, make sure that you do what you can to help it by providing it with all the things it needs.  Put all of his items in the same place every day.

If you follow these simple tips you will find it will help your new cat to make himself at home in your home.


Tuesday, September 11, 2018

Your New CAT: Why Are the First 24 Hours So Important?

English: Animal Rescue
Animal Rescue (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
The cage was small, but the people were nice and Tiger felt safe. He was fed, petted and regularly groomed. Still, it wasn’t home. Tiger had been ‘home’, and still had vague memories of the woman who had cared for him and the other cats who lived with her.

Then he had been taken to this place and had been here so long he had almost forgotten ‘home’, and the woman.

There was uneasiness here, though, and Tiger felt it. Something was about to happen. Something bad.

Then two humans came in. He was put in a cage with them. He jumped up in the woman’s lap. He was put in a dark place that bumped and jostled. He heard strange, scary noises. He howled, and a male voice answered with noises he couldn’t understand.

Then there was light. And TERROR!

A small hand reached for him and tried to grab him. There were people he didn’t know; they all approached him. There was another cat that arched and spat.

Then, horror of horrors…

There was a dog!

Tiger fled. He fled down a long corridor and bolted through the first open door he found. He hid in the darkest place he could find…among soft and hard things he didn’t recognize. He heard voices. He heard the dog bark, and he shuddered. He heard the child’s high pitched voice, and a woman’s voice…which were easier to bear.

He hunkered down and remained as invisible and silent as he could.

ADOPTION IN HASTE

The staff of animal shelters greets people looking for new pets with both joy and misgiving. People walk between the cages, looking over each cat, and the staff hopes they will select a cat that has been there for a long time.

But they know what the people are looking for; they are looking for kittens, not adult cats.

If there are no kittens, the customers will sometimes reluctantly choose an adult cat as a “consolation prize”, pay the adoption fees and cart him or her off…

Only to return the cat two or three days later.

“I’m sorry, but this cat just didn’t work out. We couldn’t fit it into the family.”

Or…

“This cat is just too wild. We need something tamer, something that will fit in.”

“What happened?” The staff member asks.

“The cat bolted and hid. It took us three days to find it, and when we finally did, we had to chase it all over the house before we caught it. We need something tamer; something that will fit in better.”

So go the sad tales of the returnees… but wait, it can be worse for cats adopted in other ways.

“The landlord won’t let me keep her, could you please take her in?”

People who adopt strays off the street, or a friend’s cat, many times don’t realize the full extent of the things they need to do for their new cat…

In Part 2 We’ll discuss those things.  Adequate preparation would have saved Tiger -- by safely and easily introducing him to a happy home…

Copyright 2006 John Young


Friday, July 20, 2018

A BLACK CAT is Just a CAT

I took this picture of Lilith, a black cat fou...
I took this picture of Lilith, a black cat found as a kitten in a supermarket parking lot
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)
When my old cat died, I decided to pick one out of the Humane Society.  They had named the first cat I saw “Batman”, and I fell in love with him on sight.

But when I brought him home, I discovered he didn’t quite have the courage of the comic book hero. I made some mistakes which resulted in a month-long struggle to coax him out of his hiding place to join the family.

I renamed him Bear, and he is a wonderful cat, but my guests seem a little uncomfortable when he comes into the room.  After all, he is completely black.

He is a black cat and some people are afraid of Black Cats…

The Black Cat in History

Historically, black cats have been associated with omens, bad luck and, well...evil.

The poor unfortunate kitties have been used in rituals and were supposedly the "familiars" of witches. Anarchism has used the symbol of the black cat, as has Wicca, the modern day expression of Witchcraft.  Superstition has associated bad luck with having a black cat cross your path.

All-in-all, the black cat has been getting some really bad press for centuries, and all of that is not easily overcome in just a few short lines of this article.

Scaredy Cat

A very highly sensitive cat, our new black Bear was far more scared of us than we were of him, and we made a number of mistakes in the first hour of his introduction that practically destroyed our chances for introducing him to our home.

The process of first finding Bear where he had hidden in the house and gradually coaxing him out of his hiding place to join the family was long and agonizing. It took over a month, and I had almost despaired that we would ever acclimate him.

Patience won out, though…

Superstition Dispelled

Since then, Bear has been rolling around on my lap enjoying his daily pettings, sleeping in my bed, yowling at the females he sees from his perch in the kitchen window and just generally bringing a lot of joy to our lives.

He is here to dispel the notion that a black cat means bad luck.  He is one of the sweetest cats you'll ever meet, and there's absolutely *nothing* scary about him. And I can tell you for a fact that no bad luck is connected with Bear.  He's crossed my path innumerable times, and so far I haven't experienced anything one might think of as "bad luck".

I have to say, though, that on Halloween night he seems to be scared of his own black shadow. But I try to keep him calmed down and happy to be where he is...in my lap purring as loud as he can!

Copyright 2006 John Young




Thursday, May 3, 2018

3 Missteps Every CAT OWNER Should Know

English: Cat with broken teeth. Magyar: Macska...
Cat with broken teeth.
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)
If there's one endeavor that entails responsibility, I believe that owning a cat would be it. Becoming a pet owner can be hard work, even though your level of stress will ultimately be lower than someone who doesn't own a pet. As far as owning a cat is concerned, there are a couple of essential points to make note of. Assisi, as well as other authorities, can tell you that these are 3 of the biggest oversights you should make note of.

When it comes to medications, it's important to use the ones which are meant for cats and cats alone. Assisi Animal Health, as well as your own veterinarian, will be able to prescribe certain solutions if your pet comes down with something. The worst thing that you can do, as a pet owner, is give your cat a human medication in order to numb the pain. For example, a dose of Advil can prove to be fatal, since this is not the intended use of it. Other methods exist for discomfort, though, PEMF therapy for cats being one of the most unique.

Next, there are cat owners who will overlook the importance of their pets' teeth. Dental disease, for those who do not know, is one of the most common reasons why pet owners set up vet appointments. You must be able to brush your cat's teeth on a regular basis, making certain that this action is done gently. If you start to see problems related to the gums, or if teeth wind up missing, that's when you should contact your specialist as soon as possible.

Behavioral changes may be overlooked as well, which is another point to highlight. You have to consider that cats may act strangely, depending on illness or whatnot, which means that pet owners have to step in and see what can be done about the situation. Failure to do so can lead to a poorer quality of life for that very creature. It goes without saying that you should contact your vet about this, but make sure that you do so as soon as you observe erratic changes.

There's a certain charm that comes with cats. Even though there are some creatures which aren't as affectionate, there's no doubt that they add something special to a home. As a result, you should be the best cat owner you can be, illustrating the best level of care in the long term. Make it a point to look into these topics, keeping them in mind for the long term, and you will be that much more effective when it comes to caring for your cats as well.




Friday, December 1, 2017

Things To Know About ABUSED CATS

my love
Photo  by Katie Tegtmeyer 
Cats that have been abused can appear severely maimed and damaged all over their exterior.  Some may appear to be in perfect shape on the outside, although all of the damage they sustained may be internal or emotional.  Even though physical damage is bad, the emotional damage is much tougher to fix.  Cats who have physical abuse will still answer to a soft touch and soft voice, as long as they know that the abuse has come to an end.

When you have a cat that has been emotionally abused, you’ll need to wait until the cat comes to you.  You’ll need to use patience, as the cat will be confused and not know if you plan to hurt him or not.  If you take your time and let him know that you are nothing to fear, he will eventually come to you.  When he starts to come to you, you can let him sniff you and pet him.  After a while, he will learn that he can trust you and he will come to you when you call him.

Yelling, raising your voice, or using disciplinary tools such as flyswatters or water guns the wrong way can lead to emotional damage.  If you continue to use the wrong means of discipline on an emotionally damaged cat, the cat can become mean or lethargic.  When a cat turns mean, it’s not always a bad thing.  Meaner cats are easier to reach, as they still care a bit about what happens to them – while lethargic cats could really care less.

Cats that have become lethargic won’t play, take treats, or respond to anything you say to them.  With a lethargic cat, the ideal way to get him to respond is to bring in a companion cat.  Over time, a lethargic cat will eventually look for attention, normally a scratch or a pat.  When this happens, you should always use a soft voice and snuggle with him.  Never raise your voice at this point, and make sure you let the cat know that his behavior is a lot better.

You should make slow movements around a lethargic cat, as he is still quite traumatic.  Once he is coming around and letting you touch him again, he is getting back to his normal self.  Keep in mind that it may take some time, which is to be expected with this type of situation.  If your cat starts to get upset again or if you raise your voice, he will hide again.  If you continue to use a soft voice and have patience, your cat will eventually get past this.  If you get a cat that is lethargic, you should prepare yourself for a long and very intensive healing period.



Angry or mean cats, on the other hand, will either fight and scratch with you or simply run away from you.  With mean cats, the best thing to do is use gentle treatment with a soft voice.  You can never try to raise your voice or use strict discipline, as it will only make the cat meaner.  Never attempt to trap the cat either, as trapping it will only make the cat react.  If you take your time and let the cat know that you are there for him, he will eventually calm down.

Abused cats are truly a sad thing, although they are out there.  Abused cats can be a sad thing to see indeed, especially those that were physically abused.  Abused cats need a loving home and a loving owner who will give them the type of lifestyle they deserve.  Always remember that if you are dealing with an abused cat – you should always be as gentle as you possibly can.


Thursday, August 31, 2017

The BENGAL Cat

If a cat that appears as though it has walked straight out of the wilderness and into civilization is what you want, then the Bengal cat fills that order. The Bengal cat is a hybrid breed produced by crossing the domestic cat with an Asian Leopard cat. The desire of such cross breeding is to produce a cat that looks wild but has the temperament of a domestic cat.


Zephyr 4 meses
Bengal Cat - Photo  by     Nacho y Adriana   (cc)
Physical Body
The most distinct feature of the Bengal cat is its extremely soft, thick, and uniquely patterned coat. There are two distinct patterns recognized within the Bengal cat breed. Those are spotted and marbleized. The spotted coat is closest to its leopard ancestor, featuring leopard spots in varying shades of brown, rust, orange, sand, black, and gray. The marbleized coat is produced from the mixing of the Asian Leopard cat with a domestic tabby to produce splotches that look more like marble. In either case, the Bengal cat has a look that is both strikingly beautiful and wild.

Other than the coat, another distinguishing feature that sets it apart from other cats is its muscular body, more prominent in males than females. Bengal cats are very athletic, sleek, and muscular.

Temperament
The Bengal cat loves to be part of the family. They love to interact and play. This is not to say they will not seek out a soft chair or lap in which to lie for a nap, but for the majority of the day they are very active cats. Being a high energy cat, they are not for someone looking for a docile animal to lounge around the house and look pretty.

The exotic heritage of this cat makes it unique both in look and personality. Even though it takes five generations of Bengal-to-Bengal breeding to produce a line recognized as a Bengal cat, these felines have a wild ancestral heritage and some of those instincts can still be seen in late generations through their extreme intelligence, high energy, and innate curiosity. This is a cat that loves to play and will demand interaction with their owners but in a way that is most pleasant. Some Bengals can even be trained to walk on a leash and play fetch. It's also reported by some owners that their Bengals love water and will shower with them.

Due to the wild ancestral line of the Bengal, careful selective breeding practices are implemented by high quality Bengal cat breeders to ensure that the docile temperament of the domesticated ancestors is dominant.

Common Medical Problems
As with any breed of cat or dog, certain medical problems seem to be more commonplace than others. For the Bengal, the most common health problems seen by veterinarians are as follows:
Progressive Retinal Atrophy - This problem eventually causes blindness. There is no way to screen for this problem, so there is no way for a breeder to tell if a kitten will have problems later on.
Cataracts - Thickening and clouding of the eye lens, causing loss of vision over a period of time and eventual blindness. This problem can be reversed since cataract surgery is available for cats.
Cardiomyopathy - This covers both thickening of the heart muscles and thinning of the heart muscles, both causing very poor circulation. Cats stricken with this condition can appear healthy for a very long time and then suddenly appear very ill.



Inflammatory Bowel Disease - This is a condition in which an infection is present within the digestive tract. The symptoms of this condition are typically vomiting and diarrhea. Any Bengal showing symptoms should be taken to the veterinarian immediately to avoid dehydration.
Food Poisoning - Bengals have especially sensitive stomachs. For this reason, their diets should be carefully monitored and table scraps should never be on the menu.

One medical problem you'll never have to worry about with the Bengal cat and possibly their most fascinating feature is they possess an apparent immunity to feline leukemia. This is an inherited trait that the Bengal cat received from its ancestor the Asian Leopard cat.

Bengal cats are one of the most interesting breeds in existence today. From their wild markings to their playful and loving demeanor, Bengal's are an absolute joy to have around the house, especially in a household with children. If a cat who acts more like a family member is desired, the Bengal cat is a great choice.

    Velita Livingston  is the founder of the Cat Lover's Diary blob which provides rich content with great advice on cat care tips and cat training, teaching pet owners how to protect, pamper and live peacefully with their pets. Visit the http://www.catloversdiary.com to watch the Cat Lover's Diary Movie, it contains breathtaking images and heartwarming quotes... It will uplift and inspire you! You can also visit the Cat Lover's Diary on Facebook and Twitter.
    Article Source: EzineArticles


Wednesday, August 16, 2017

The EGYPTIAN MAU - Small Cat With a Big History

If there is any sort of valid claim to being the cat of ancient Egypt and the Pharaohs it must go to the Mau. After all, the word "mau" means cat. What better credentials could a fantastic feline have?

MAU ICH Arietta Setesh of Egyptsila
Egyptian Mau - Photo  by    Nickolas Titkov (cc)
Well, what if the particular breed of cat can be clearly seen in ancient Egyptian artwork? Even better, what if Hollywood itself has given its stamp of authenticity to the breed? In the 2004 movie, 

"Catwoman", Halle Berry's character, Patience Phillips, is killed but is brought back to life by a Mau named "Midnight", which was actually played by three different cats. It's not surprising that they turned out to be movie stars, however, because they are known for not only their striking appearance but for their personality and charisma as well.

When you go as far back into history as the Egyptian Mau, you are bound to come in contact with some wilder, less refined ancestors. The Mau is directly descended from wild African spotted cats. These ancestors were domesticated, by the ancient Egyptians and may be, as some believe, the starting point for all modern breeds of domesticated felines, from the pretty Persian kitty to those backyard balladeers...the alley cats.

Though many years removed from its ancestral strain, the Mau has retained the spots which are one of its trademarks. In fact, the spots are even more a part of the Mau than just a hair color. Its skin is actually spotted as well! Another note on spots is that this cat breed is the only naturally spotted breed. All other known spotted cats have been bred to produce the spots in their fur.

The Mau is a smallish cat, only weighing in the vicinity of five to about eleven pounds. However, don't let its size fool you. It still has the graceful hunter's moves of its wild ancestors. It is also one of the fastest breeds of domesticated cats, and a natural design in the skin which allows its long hind legs to take longer strides than other cats is the same feature found in another cat relative...the cheetah. This small pet cat has been clocked at 30 MPH! Even with its small size, however, the Mau possesses a working cat's muscles in an overall sleek package that is topped, or bottomed, off by a graceful tail which may be as much as two-thirds of its total length.

A feature that particularly endears this breed to me is that it tends to chuckle or chortle when happy, rather than mewling. It also becomes quite animated when happy and expresses its pleasure with rapid tail movements and kneading with the feet while chuckling to itself.

The Mau is a great family cat. It is friendly but protective and is devoted to its family. A possible drawback here is that they tend to like a lot of one-on-one companionships and plenty of play. In the absence of a stay-at-home human, they are graciously willing to play instead with other cat friends. So, if you cannot be at home as often as your Mau would like, you may have to get him or her a pet!
Living with the Mau is the least of your problems, however. A Mau does not come cheap, with one site I visited quoting a starting price of $400, and it goes up from there, of course. The other issue is the scarcity of the breed. They are a popular breed with a limited supply so you may be on a waiting list for some time.


While any old Mau may come in several shades and variations of colors, the Cat Fanciers' Association recognizes three acceptable colors for show - silver, bronze, and smoke. Cats of other colors, such as black, blue-silver, blue spotted, blue smoke, and solid blue, are still one hundred percent Mau, although they are not recognized for the show.

If you want a cheerful, playful family cat that can give you a taste of history, and a touch of the wild, you might just be looking for an Egyptian Mau.

Donovan Baldwin is a Central Texas writer and a University of West Florida alumnus. He is a member of Mensa and is retired from the U. S. Army after 21 years of service. In his career, he has held many managerial and supervisory positions. However, his main pleasures have long been writing, animals, nature, health, yoga [http://yoga-4-the-health-of-it.com], and fitness. In the last few years, he has been able to combine these pleasures by writing poetry and articles on subjects such as health, fitness, the environment, happiness, self-improvement, and weight loss.



Sunday, August 6, 2017

Information Regarding the JAPANESE BOBTAIL CAT

Made prominent by its short tail, Japanese Bobtail is an ancient feline that is thought to have resided in Japan for many centuries. There are numerous interesting legends associated with the beautiful feline, which is considered to be a symbol of good fortune in Japanese folklore. Japanese Bobtails were first imported to the United States in the late nineteen sixties. Following some years of formal breeding, acceptance of its status as a distinct breed came in the seventies. Both long and short hair variants of the cat are recognized. Registration came late in the United Kingdom, only at the turn of twenty-first century.

JapaneseBobtailBlueEyedMi-ke.JPG

"JapaneseBobtailBlueEyedMi-ke"  Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons.

Japanese Bobtails have an elegant semi-foreign build with good muscular development. They have a square rather than a rectangular profile and are not tubular like some oriental breeds. Head is triangular with slanted, oval eyes, well-developed cheek bones, and large, widely set ears. The coat is seen in a number of colors in van, tabby and tortoiseshell patterns. Both short and semi-long hair versions have a smooth, silky feel to them. Longhaired cats' tails are fluffier and are like pom-poms. Legs are long, with hind legs being longer than four legs.

Though they also have a short tail, Japanese Bobtails are quite different from the Manx and American Bobtail cat. Their genetic mutation is different. Body structure and profile are also unique in case of the Japanese cat. Even the short plumed tail is distinct, with each individual cat having a singular tail size and appearance.



Japanese Bobtails are reputed to be very brave and fearless creatures. They are not afraid of other animals and mingle easily with dogs and other large pets. Energetic and active, these sturdy cats are good athletes and spend lots of time daily playing with their toys. Quick to mature and develop from birth, Japanese Bobtails are among the most confident and self-assured feline breeds.



Wednesday, July 26, 2017

SERVAL CAT

Recently, two Serval cats were delivered to the Caldwell Zoo in Tyler, Texas. The nine month old cats are named Bosco and Amos. The kittens came from the Tautphaus Park Zoo in Idaho Falls, Idaho. The Serval cat is considered one of the best hunters in the wild with the ability to catch it prey over 50% of the time.

The Beautiful Serval
Serval - Photo by Steve Wilson – over 5 million views Thanks !! 
A Serval cat is a medium sized African wild animal. It is a strong, slender cat with long legs and relatively short tale. It has a small head and oval ears. The fur of the animal is striped on the head and back of the neck and the body is spotted. The coloring is tawny with black stripes and spots. The Serval has traits similar to the cheetah. From a distance, a Serval will resemble a cheetah but up close the Serval is a smaller animal. A Serval cat will weigh from 20 to 50 pounds. It has a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. Besides it's normal sounds, it can purr like a domestic cat.

The Serval cat lives in savannas and likes to feed on rodents. It will feed on other prey like fish, frogs and insects if it finds them. A Serval is very fast and has excellent jumping ability making it a good hunter. The cat tends to eat quickly causing it to regurgitate it's food. If the prey is small enough , it will swallow it whole. It is also a very intelligent animal enabling to outwit it's prey. Although the Serval does very little, it is a great swimmer. Larger cats like the leopard prey on the Serval.

The cat is normally bred in the wild but can also be bred in captivity. In the wild, the young are raised in sheltered locations for protection from bigger cats. The litter can contain up to five kittens. A kitten can mature to an adult in as little as 190 days.

A Serval cat can be domesticated. The animal is friendly, good-natured and easily tamed. But like any wild animal, the cat may become destructive and dangerous before fully grown. A Serval is very loyal to it's owner and is difficult to transfer to a different owner. The cat popularity's as a pet has increased in the United States. In the United States, a special license is required to have a Serval as a pet. A Serval has been bred with a domestic cat called the Savannah. Most states consider the Savannah as a domestic cat and do not put special conditions on the breed.


The Serval population has been shrinking due to humans encroaching on it's habitat and hunting the animal for it's fur. Since the Serval is a relatively small cat, it takes numerous pelts to make a garment. In many countries, the Serval has become a protected species. The CITES organization has put the Serval on it's watch list.

This article does not endorse or recommend a Serval cat as a pet.


    By Frank Loethen
    Frank Loethen. married, owner of an Internet business for cat products and grandfather of 4.
    Article Source: EzineArticles