Cat Articles

Understanding Cat Diarrhea - How To Take Good Care Of A Cat With Diarrhea

2007-08-17T11:56:00.000-06:00

It is rare to see cats having diarrhea unless they are suffering from any internal digestive problem. A short episode of diarrhea is relatively harmless, it might be because he has put something in his stomach that he should not and has given him the run. Once your cat clear the unwanted food in his stomach, he should be fine.

The main reason for diarrhea happening in domestic cats is the feeding of milk by cat owners. It is not beneficial to feed your cat milk and water is in fact better for your cat’s health. If you love milk so much and have to feed your cat milk no matter what, you should “cat milk’ instead of the usual milk that human consume. This formula will not give him the run but is extra cost on your part.

If your cat suffers from a persistent diarrhea for a long period of time, he will be losing fluid fast and will lead to a huge loss in vital salts and minerals that will worsen your cat’s health. This would be a serious case and would need immediate veterinary attention.

There are many possible reasons for cat to suffer from a bad diarrhea, and it’s very important to have its cause diagnosed and treated as fast as possible. Whenever possible, you should take a sample of the diarrhea to your veterinary as it would aid him in identifying the causes and diagnosis. You must also take note of your cat diarrhea details – like the frequently and duration of diarrhea happening.

There are many reasons for diarrhea in cats and it's important to have its cause diagnosed and treated as soon as possible. If you can, take a sample of the diarrhea with you to the veterinary surgery. This is extremely helpful in aiding diagnosis and will speed up the process so that treatment can start. You should also take details of how often your cat has diarrhea and how long he has had it.

To take proper care of a cat with diarrhea condition, you must maintain a good hygiene level and wash your hands after handling him. If the causes of diarrhea is infection, your cat should be care for in isolation and all his food, utensils and belongings including bedding, litter box and toys should be wash and disinfected thoroughly. It is also advisable to wear gloves when you handle his stool. To prevent your cat from spreading his infection, it is advisable to keep him indoor for a few days until his symptoms go away.

Cat diarrhea is not the biggest cat diseases and a correct treatment advice by your veterinary should enable you to cure your cat easily.

About the Author:

Moses Wright is a webmaster of http://www.Catcustomer.com and he provides more information on Cat Health, Cat Veterinary Diseases and Cat Illnesses Symptoms on his website. You are welcome to reprint this article if you keep the content and live link intact.

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What Are The Characteristics Of Somali Cat?

2007-08-08T11:50:00.000-06:00

The Somali is an intelligent playful cat and for those who like longhaired cats, this may be the breed for you. Somalis are descendants of the Abyssinian cat breed, and have a lot of similar traits. Abyssinian litters have seen the birth of longhair cats for many generations and in the 1960s, a Canadian breeder thought of coming up with a new breed from these kittens. He called it the Somali and their popularity spread fast to the United States and Europe. This breed was developed from the Abyssinian and they were known as the longhair Abyssinian.

A very distinguishing feature of these cats is the markings on the face which are often described as heavy stage makeup. The eyes look like they have been outlined with kohl and around the dark ring there is a ring of light hair. So the effect is that of a cat with glasses. The body has a wedge shaped head with large ears, a well muscled body, a long bushy tail and very expressive eyes. This is one breed that can be found in colors like chocolate, red, blue, lilac, ruddy, sorrel, cream colors, fawn, with silver tabby patterns or tortoiseshell tabby.

These are highly trainable cats that are happiest when they have something to play with. The toy can be a paper bag or some small toy. They can do all the things one would train dogs for, like fetch the paper, walk on a leash and come when called or they are just as happy to cuddle in your lap for the six o’ clock news. If you plan to be out for most of the day, then get a small companion for your Somali because a lonely Somali can get really unhappy.

Grooming is a once a week affair as they have a medium length coat that needs a good brushing to keep it tangle free and unmatted and this is more so around the tail and the ruff around the neck as here the hair is the longest. If time is a problem, then get a short haired cat as a Somali with matted hair is not a happy Somali. These cats keep reasonably good health and the only thing to be aware of is that they may have a hairball problem occasionally. Check with your local vet for hairball control food.

The Somali is a very family oriented cat and people who like cats will be very happy with these as pets as they make very good pets. There are breeds which are very good but don’t do very well when trained and kept in a home, but not Somalis. These intelligent and playful cats are just the right breed for a cat loving family.

About the Author:

George Adams is a staff writer at Pets Digest and is an occasional contributor to several other websites, including The Aquarium Expert.

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Successful Cat Training – 3 Rules To Follow

2007-07-23T20:43:00.000-06:00

Cat training is not always easy, but it is possible. Though your cat may seem too independent and stubborn to change its behavior, you can get the job done if you make a commitment to the right strategies.

There are a few basic tents of successful training about whichever cat owner should be aware. Let us look at three of those cat training fundamentals:

The Need for Immediacy

Cats are incredibly smart animals, but they do not necessarily make the same kind of connections people do with respect to cause and effect. That is why it is essential to take action immediately when you observe inappropriate behavior. If your response is delayed by even a few seconds, it will lose a great deal of its effectiveness.

Never assume that your cat will remember what it did earlier in a day or that the cat will make any connection between your discipline and past behavior. Rarely, if ever, will that happen. If you correct your pet for something it did earlier, it will have no idea of why it is being corrected and may incorrectly link your actions to the behavior displayed immediately before you took action.

Encouraging Alternative Behaviors

One of the best ways to teach your cat not to engage in an undesirable behavior is to encourage the animal to do something else instead. This strategy works even better when the encouraged behavior is completely incompatible with the undesired action. This technique works because cats, like all animals, are more responsive to positive reinforcement.

You will have greater success encouraging and rewarding what you would like to see than you will by trying to stop what you do not. Instead of discouraging your cat from scratching a table leg, encourage your pet to exercise that instinct on its scratching post!

Avoiding Physical Discipline

Physical punishment will not contribute to successful cat training. Negative reinforcements do not work well for cats and hitting or otherwise physically reprimanding your pet will only make your relationship more difficult while inspiring unnecessary fear in the animal.

Cats are not always the easiest animals to train, but if one approaches the project with the right attitude and strategies, it is possible to direct a cat’s behavior. The three elements of cat training we’ve discussed all share features common to all successful techniques--they are all based on the understanding that positive reinforcement offers the greatest chance of success and that cat owners should always use the least aggressive means of correcting behavior.

Those three rules of thumb are at the very core of smart cat training.

About the Author:

This article was written by Liz Barton. Learn more about how to solve your cat behavior problems - you'll find another cat training article by visiting http://www.secretsofcats.com/training_cats.html

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Cat Eye Care - Do You Properly Care For Your Cat?

2007-06-26T08:40:00.000-06:00

As a loving cat owner, you want your feline friend to be as healthy as possible, and a big part of that means taking care of her eyes. You should frequently inspect your cat’s eyes, and if you notice any changes or problems, seek prompt medical care, before your cat’s health is impacted. There are many things that you can do for your cat on a regular basis that can help keep her eyes healthy, but are you willing to invest the time to do them?

One of the easiest things that you can do for your cat is to keep her eyes clean and free of mucous, which could build up and turn into a raging eye infection. Use a damp cloth and gently wipe her eyes at least once a day or whenever you notice mucous. This small step goes a long way in caring for your cat’s eyes.

You should also protect your cat’s eyes anytime that you need to use chemical treatments on her skin, such as flea dips. Talk to your veterinarian before treatment, and ask him for suggestions on how to protect your cat’s eyes from the chemicals. He will likely give you a neutralizing ointment, which you will apply to your cat’s eyes before using the chemicals, and will neutralize any chemicals that may inadvertently come into contact with her eyes.

If your cat has long hair, you should keep in trimmed so that it stays out of her eyes. Anything that comes into contact with the eyes can cause irritation, and even lead to infection, so this is an important step in your cat’s eye care.

When you look at your cat’s eyes, they should be moist and clear, as well as free of mucous. Anything to the contrary could indicate a problem that may need veterinary treatment.

Although your cat won’t enjoy it, you should clean her eyes at least once a week, even if you wash then with a cloth and water everyday, they still need to be cleaned. You can ask your veterinarian for tips on doing this, and he may suggest a commercial product that you can use, or you can make your own. To make your own cat eye cleaning solution, mix about 1 capful of baby shampoo with about 20 capfuls of water. Dip a cotton ball or Q-tip into the solution, and use it to clean your cat’s eyes, starting with the eyeball and working outward. Once you have finished, use another cotton ball with just water and rinse the eyes in the same manner.

If your cat develops an eye infection, your veterinarian will likely prescribe antibiotic medication, which you apply directly to her eye in the form of eye drops. Again, your cat will not like this treatment, but it is for her own good, and something that you must do if you want her to be healthy. Eye ointments are much easier to use, however if you apply too much at once, you could worsen the problem, so you have to be careful.

Few people realize how important it is to take care of their cat’s eyes, and often don’t even think about it until a problem develops. By properly performing cat eye care, and seeking veterinary care for any problems promptly, you are ensuring that your cat stays healthy and happy, so that she can be with you for a long time to come!

About the Author:

Jean Morgan is a writer of articles concerning pet health and the owner of Natures Healthy Pet Visit Natures Healthy Pet for more information about Cat Eye Care

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Cat Flea Control - Don't Let Fleas Bug Your Cat!

2007-06-04T15:19:00.000-06:00

When a cat starts scratching, it is cause for concern, constant scratching can mean fleas. Fleas are more than a mere discomfort for you pet, they are a serious issue that needs to be dealt with before they cause health issues for your cat as well as issues for you and your family.

Because fleas can cause a condition in cats known as “pruritus” or an allergic reaction, keeping them at bay is an important step to keeping your pet healthy. For most cats, fleas are a nuisance; for cats that suffer from flea allergies, they can be life threatening. Knowing a little about fleas will help you to control them and to protect your pet better.

If your cat happens to be one of the more unfortunate felines who develops a flea allergy, quick elimination of these parasites is essential. A flea allergy can cause the cat to loose fur and weight and if the fleas are left unchecked they can eventually kill the cat. Additional medical treatment may also be required even after the fleas are gone.

Flea control is important to cat disease prevention even if your cat is not allergic to them. Fleas can cause health issues for cats too including anemia from the loss of blood, tapeworms (fleas eat the eggs and transmit them to other animals) and skin infections from the bites caused by fleas. Any one of these flea related health issues can have dire consequences for your pet.

So then, cat flea control is very important. The question now is how to go about it. There are multiple methods open to a cat owner. Powders and dips can be effective, but their inconvenience often means that they are not used properly or often enough to adequately control fleas.

When choosing to use the dips, powders and sprays it is often a good idea to combine them with the use of a flea collar. Be aware however, that flea collars can also cause an allergic reaction for your cat, especially if they already have an allergic reaction to the fleas. Perhaps the best defense against fleas is a spot flea treatment. This type of preventative is placed on the cats neck and protects against fleas, ticks and tapeworms.

When it comes to the environment, there are also several options for flea control. Flea bombs can kill fleas in carpets and bedding, though careful washing and vacuuming will help greatly in this endeavor also. For outside use, yard sprays can be quite effective.

Whatever you use for flea control, be sure to be consistent and follow the directions. Flea control products only work if they are applied often enough. Misapplication can lead to fleas slipping through the cracks, and neither you nor kitty wants that.

About the Author:

David Lee, Get more info like cat health , cat flea control , pet steps and cat furniture

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5 Great Tips On Training Your Cat To Behave

2007-05-23T08:39:00.000-06:00

There is more to cats than the cuddly and lovable pets who purr on one corner of the house. At times, they can be a menace to housekeeping too. Scratches in furniture, broken ornaments, and ruined stockings are just a few things that misbehaving cats can do.

There are reasons why cats misbehave. And by knowing these reasons, cat owners can be capable of controlling their pets' actions.

Here are some things about cats which cause misbehaviors together with tips on how to make them behave.

- Cats misbehave when they are bored.

Cats that don’t have much to do have no choice but to do obnoxious things. They may be looking for attention, or they just needed something to do to spend their energy.

Whatever the case may be, these can be solved by allotting time for your cat to play with you. However, do not do this immediately after your cat misbehaved. Your cat will associate its misbehavior with you giving it more attention.

- Cats are naturally nocturnal animals.

Cats are more active during nighttime. They can do more exciting activities by that time.

With this in mind, make your cat busy in the morning. By doing this, the cat will be too exhausted to do things when it is time for his owners to sleep.

- Cats misbehave when they are sexually-driven.

Expect misbehavior when cats feel that it is time to mate. Expect a lot of misbehavior for cats who are confined inside their homes when it happens!

Surgical procedures can be done to prevent misbehaviors caused by sexual urges. Female cats can undergo spaying; male cats can undergo neutering.

- Cats misinterpret owners' reaction to its misbehavior.

Owners usually get mad when their pets misbehave. But they are vague in telling their pets that they are mad. When owners reprimand their pets for misbehaving, cats think that their owners just want to play with them.

Owners must be clear with their reactions. If their pets misbehave, owners would make it clear that it is a punishment and not a game.

Remember that cats seek reward. They avoid punishment. Do not make misbehaving enjoyable to your cat by giving it a lot of attention when it happens.

By associating punishment for misbehaving cats learn what should not be done.

- Cats enjoy playing with certain things in the house.

There are things that cats love. It may be a curtain, or a pillow.

The good thing is they hate certain smells too. Spray unpleasant smells on those things to keep cats away.

By knowing why pets misbehave owners have more chances to correct these bad habits!

About the Author:

Cat Care Secrets is an excellent place to find cat links, articles and resource. For more information on Cats visit: www.catcaresecrets.com

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Choosing Cat Toys That Are Fun And Safe

2007-05-05T10:17:00.000-06:00

Cats love playing with toys. Choosing cat toys (http://www.petsupplies4ypc.com/cattoys.html) can be interesting because there are so many to choose from. You may have to buy several cat toys to find a few that your cat really enjoys.

You want to make sure any cat toys you buy are safe for your kitty. Sometimes this depends on the size and age of your cat. Your cat’s activity level is another consideration.

Many times the things that a cat most enjoys playing with are the most dangerous. Take tinsel or string for instance. Unfortunately most cats loves these items but they can swallow them and this may lead to serious problems with digestion. Cats are also interested in playing with rubber bands, paper clips and ribbon. These are unsafe cat toys and you should keep them away from your cat.

Even when you purchase cat toys you may need to remove parts that can become dangerous. If feathers, strings, eyes or other small parts are not firmly attached they may be unsafe for your kitty.

When purchasing soft toys, look for the ones that are machine washable. When you buy cat toys that can be washed it will be easier to keep the toys clean. If small children have access to the cat toys (http://www.petsupplies4ypc.com/cattoys.html) you will want to make sure the toys are not filled with things that can be dangerous to them. There are cat toys that are filled with crushed nutshells and tiny beads.

Most cats do not like cat toys that are rigid. Cats often love toys that can be chased or hunted. Look for at least one cat toy that has an object on the end of a stick. When you play with your feline you can drag the object along the ground and then hide it so your cat gets to feel like a hunter.

Find cat toys that are safe and fun for your cat. And don’t forget to take a little time to play with your cat and his new toys. It’s a great way to bond and have a good time together.

About the Author:

Dustin Cannon is owner of Just Articles VIP and writes on a variety of subjects. To learn more about pet supplies Dustin recommends you visit: Pet Supplies For Your Precious Companions

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How To Choose A Cat Litter Box

2007-05-01T12:39:00.001-06:00

One of the most important items you can buy for your cat is a cat litter box. If you have a cat/s you will want to make a wise choice when it comes to cat litter boxes.

There are some things to think about before you go cat litter box shopping. There are many different features you will want to consider.

Think about the material that the cat litter boxes are made from. You will find that you will have more than one choice.

There are different styles of litter boxes. For instance, would you rather have a hooded litter box or one without a hood?

What about vents? There are litter boxes that have vents and others that do not. There are also some litter boxes that are designed with odor control pads.

What size litter box are you looking for? This will depend on the size of your cat. If you have a cat that may grow quite big you will want a litter box that will accommodate her size. Cats are not usually fond of using a litter box that is too small. This can lead to urine and feces that do not quite make it into the litter box.

There are cat litter boxes that are opaque and others that are see-through. You will also have several color choices.

One of the most important considerations for many cat owners and litter boxes is the durability factor. It can be rather irritating to have to keep buying cat litter boxes because they crack and break or don’t hold up to multiple cat use.

Some people love the automated cat litter boxes. There are some advantages to these litter boxes but if you go this route you will need to remember to check on your cat’s litter box habits from time to time.

Another factor when choosing a cat litter box (http://www.petsupplies4ypc.com/catlittr.html) is how easy it will be to clean. There are litter boxes that are made from materials that make cleaning the litter box a breeze.

Choose wisely and you will find the best cat litter box for your situation.

About the Author:

Dustin Cannon is owner of Just Articles VIP and writes on a variety of subjects. To learn more about pet supplies and choosing a cat litter box Dustin recommends you visit: Pet Supplies For Your Precious Companions

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Catnip And Your Cat

2007-04-30T13:03:00.000-06:00

What is catnip? Is it good for your cat? How often can you give catnip to your cat? How do cats react to catnip? These questions will all be answered in this article.

Catnip is a plant that can be grown in your garden and it is a member of the mint family. Catnip can also grow as a weed in North America where it often grows wild.

The leaves of the catnip plant contain nepetalactone which is an oil. When the leaves are shredded or crumbled the oil is released. Cats are pleased when they smell this oil as the scent stimulates something in their brain.

Most cats love catnip and will chew or lick anything containing it. Many will rub their heads in the leaves and then proceed to roll in it. They sometimes become quite energized and may do things that they usually do not do.

After awhile the effects of the catnip will wear off and a cat often becomes rather sleepy or lethargic. Fresh catnip or objects that contain fresh catnip will bring about the most interesting results.

There are many products that contain catnip. You can find toys that are filled with catnip and there are also pure and artificial sprays. The pure spray is more costly but you do not need to use much of it at one time. There are also catnip bubbles and organic catnip. You may need to try more than one product before you find the one that appeals most to your cat.

You will not need much catnip to get your cat interested. It is a good idea to ration the catnip and not give it to your cat on a daily basis. It won’t be nearly as much fun for your cat if she has the catnip treat too often and her reactions may not be as much fun for either of you.

Want to add a little excitement to your cat’s routine? Try introducing a some catnip from time to time!

About the Author:

Dustin Cannon is owner of Just Articles VIP and writes on a variety of subjects. To learn more about pet supplies Dustin recommends you visit: Pet Supplies For Your Precious Companions

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

2007-04-29T09:32:00.000-06:00

There are so many animals that are in desperate need of a loving home so if you have decided to get a cat, why not choose one from your local cat rescue home or animal shelter?

By adopting from a shelter instead of buying from a pet shop, you help those animals that are most in need to find a home and help fund the rescue work so that other cats can be saved. Many of these felines have had difficult lives so far - they may have been abandoned, abused or neglected by their owners. So, responsible rescue centres will take special care to match owner and pet and find them a good home. They will give you as much information as possible about their charges' personalities and histories to help you choose wisely.

At the animal shelter,use your power of observation.

Take some time to just watch the cats and kittens without trying to interact with them. Observe how active they are and what type of attitude they have. A cat that stays huddled in a corner or appears lethargic may be sick, which could mean expensive vets bills in the future. Or the poor cat may nave been abused and so is terrified of everyone and everything. If you have the time and patience, please don't automatically dismiss an abused feline. They can repay your care many times over.

Give the cat a thorough examination, starting with the eyes. Bright and clear eyes with no discharge or weepiness are a good sign.

The nose should be clean and slightly moist.Again,there should be no discharge.

Ears should also be clean. Those that are extremely dirty are potentially contaminated with ear mites which can be very difficult to eliminate and can easily spread to other cats at home.

Finally, the cat’s fur should be clean, shiny, and free of fleas. Fleas can be particularly bothersome to both the cat and to the owner. Eliminating fleas once they infest the home can be very difficult.

Listen to the cat. A cat that coughs, sneezes, or sounds congested can be quite ill and should be avoided. Also, listen for sounds of contentment. A cat who is purring is probably happy and healthy.A meow can indicate either trouble or contentment - a long, pleading meow could show that the cat is ill. On the other hand, a playful meow could mean the she is already developing a bond with its potential new owner!

Watch how the cat plays. Some pet owners are looking for playful cats that will scamper about the house and chase and play with toys. Others would prefer a more docile cat who will spend hours cuddled up in the owner’s lap.

See how they play with each other first to get a feeling for their disposition. This is particularly important for pet owners who already have a pet cat at home. Then play with the kitties yourself.

Take out a string, ball of wool or car keys and dangle them in front of each cat. The one that seems most alert and active is likely the better choice. Of course, you could always take home more than one if the decision is just too hard to make

It is so rewarding to adopt a cat from a cat rescue shelter and know that you have saved its life and given it a comfortable home but do be aware of potential problems. Any cat or kitten that comes from a shelter will be stressed to some level. This stress has put them at a higher risk of attracting a respiratory infection. They may also be more prone to bite or scratch you before you have bonded. Most cat rescue shelters offer a spayed or neutered cat, with full shots and de-worming but You must also get your cat tested immediately for feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV).

finally,listen to the advice of the shelter workers and don't rush into any decisions.

About the Author:

For chats about cats and for more information on cats, cat care and cat care products, visit Tricia's website All About Cat Care at http://www.all-about-cat-care.com

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Dealing With A Cat Allergy

2007-04-22T09:31:00.000-06:00

Anyone who suffers from allergies can undoubtedly tell you of the irritation and discomfort associated with its consequences. In order to minimize symptoms, allergy sufferers do well to identify their personal allergy triggers so that they can successfully avoid them. For cat lovers especially, a cat allergy can mean a host of problems when it comes to choosing – or keeping – a pet.

A cat allergy generally stems from a person’s particular sensitivity to cat dander – the skin cells that shed through the cat’s fur. This sensitivity to cat dander can range from minimal – resulting in coughing, watery eyes, sneezing, and itching – to severe – resulting in everything from swelling to shortness of breath.

Clearly, those who have a cat allergy do best to not bring any cats into their home or to enter the homes of those who have cats in residence. But there are some who do not even discover that they have a cat allergy until they’ve brought their new pet into the home.

First and foremost, a severe cat allergy may require you to find an alternative living arrangement for your cat. Work with your doctor to ascertain the severity of your cat allergy. In the likely case of a minimal to moderate cat allergy, however, there are ways to combat the cat allergy so that you and your furry friend can live together harmoniously.

When it comes to your home, be sure that you are providing adequate ventilation with the use of an effective quality air filter. Be sure to vacuum frequently to rid your house of as much dander as possible. Have your animal groomed at the veterinarian or another location outside the home so as not to expose yourself to cat hair shed during the grooming process.

If you are aware of your cat allergy before you purchase a cat, look into the shorter-haired cats. These cats require minimal grooming and shed far less than their long-haired counterparts. In fact, you may find that you are less allergic to the shorter-haired breeds.

As a final and ongoing solution you may want to work with your doctor in terms of allergy shots or medications. This can save you a significant amount of aggravation and discomfort going forward – keeping you comfortable in your own home as well as the homes of other cat owners.

Ultimately, determining if your cat allergy is something that should hinder you from cat ownership is up to you and your doctor to decide. Most importantly, you should not put your health at risk. But if you are able to manage both your allergy care and the care for your pet, then you and your cat can happily co-exist.

About the Author:

For easy to understand, in depth information about cat allergies visit our ezGuide 2 Cats.

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Cat Health Problems And Simple Things You Should Know

2007-04-21T12:33:00.000-06:00

If you are new to owning a cat, you may be surprised to find that health problems are a common thing. No matter what breed of cat you own, health problems are to be expected. Some may be hereditary, while others can easily be prevented.

Worms
No matter what breed of cat it may be, worms are a very common and recurring problem. Tapeworms, roundworms, and hookworms are among the most common that infect cats.

Cats who have problems gaining weight, problems with fleas, or if you find white specks in his stool, you should have your vet test him for worms. Although they can be treated with medicine, worms can prove to be fatal if they are left untreated.

Hairball
Hairballs are the most common health problem for cats. All cats groom themselves on a daily basis, normally swallowing the loose hair that comes from their coats.

On occasion, this loose hair will gather into a ball and become lodged in the digestive tract instead of passing through in your cat’s stool.

When your cat starts to cough and hack, he is normally coughing up a hairball. Although it can be rather disgusting in the end, most cats can dislodge hairballs without any problems.

In rare cases, a hairball can pass through to a cat’s intestine, creating a blockage.

Blockages are very serious problems, and can be life threatening if they aren’t treated. If your cat becomes constipated, isn’t eating properly, or has a very dull coat, he could have a blockage.

If you notice any of these symptoms, you should take him to the vet immediately. You can prevent hairballs and blockages by brushing your cat 2 – 3 times a week to remove loose hair. You can also feed him food that is designed to control hairballs as well.

Urinary tract infection
Urinary tract infection is also a common health problem with cats. Urinary tract infection is more common with male cats that haven’t been neutered, although females can suffer from this problem as well.

When a cat suddenly stops going to his litter box, this problem is normally the cause. Another symptom is when the cat’s urine starts to smell really strong.

If you suspect that your cat has a urinary tract infection, you should take him to the vet. Your vet can treat the problem with medicine, and make recommendations to help avoid this problem in the future.

Feline leukemia
In the past, feline leukemia was the biggest cause of death in cats. These days however, there are vaccines available that can treat the disease.

To treat the disease, your cat will need to be given the shot before he or she is exposed. Even though death doesn’t happen immediately, cats that are exposed to feline leukemia normally don’t have a long life span.

If you know your cat has feline leukemia, you should never allow other cats around him, as the virus is highly contagious.

To protect your cat, you should always make sure that you take him to the vet for his regular check ups.

If you keep him up to date on his vaccinations, he should lead a healthy and productive life.

Although some health problems can’t be avoided, most of them can. You can also keep your cat indoors as well, which will protect him from a majority of health problems.

If your cat is an outdoor cat, regular visits to the vet will keep him healthy. As long as you take your cat to the vet and keep him healthy – he will be your companion for years to come.

About the Author:

Cat Care Secrets is an excellent place to find cat links, articles and resource. For more information on Cats visit: www.catcaresecrets.com

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Cat Eye Care - Do You Properly Care For Your Cat?

2007-04-16T10:33:00.000-06:00

Cat Flea Control - Don't Let Fleas Bug Your Cat!

2007-04-15T16:44:00.000-06:00

When a cat starts scratching, it is cause for concern, constant scratching can mean fleas. Fleas are more than a mere discomfort for you pet, they are a serious issue that needs to be dealt with before they cause health issues for your cat as well as issues for you and your family.

Because fleas can cause a condition in cats known as “pruritus” or an allergic reaction, keeping them at bay is an important step to keeping your pet healthy. For most cats, fleas are a nuisance; for cats that suffer from flea allergies, they can be life threatening. Knowing a little about fleas will help you to control them and to protect your pet better.

If your cat happens to be one of the more unfortunate felines who develops a flea allergy, quick elimination of these parasites is essential. A flea allergy can cause the cat to loose fur and weight and if the fleas are left unchecked they can eventually kill the cat. Additional medical treatment may also be required even after the fleas are gone.

Flea control is important to cat disease prevention even if your cat is not allergic to them. Fleas can cause health issues for cats too including anemia from the loss of blood, tapeworms (fleas eat the eggs and transmit them to other animals) and skin infections from the bites caused by fleas. Any one of these flea related health issues can have dire consequences for your pet.

So then, cat flea control is very important. The question now is how to go about it. There are multiple methods open to a cat owner. Powders and dips can be effective, but their inconvenience often means that they are not used properly or often enough to adequately control fleas.

When choosing to use the dips, powders and sprays it is often a good idea to combine them with the use of a flea collar. Be aware however, that flea collars can also cause an allergic reaction for your cat, especially if they already have an allergic reaction to the fleas. Perhaps the best defense against fleas is a spot flea treatment. This type of preventative is placed on the cats neck and protects against fleas, ticks and tapeworms.

When it comes to the environment, there are also several options for flea control. Flea bombs can kill fleas in carpets and bedding, though careful washing and vacuuming will help greatly in this endeavor also. For outside use, yard sprays can be quite effective.

Whatever you use for flea control, be sure to be consistent and follow the directions. Flea control products only work if they are applied often enough. Misapplication can lead to fleas slipping through the cracks, and neither you nor kitty wants that.

About the Author:

David Lee, Get more info like at health, cat flea control , pet steps and cat furniture

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5 Great Tips On Training Your Cat To Behave

2007-04-06T13:19:00.000-06:00

Choosing Cat Toys That Are Fun And Safe

2007-04-05T09:41:00.000-06:00

How To Choose A Cat Litter Box

2007-04-02T13:29:00.000-06:00

Catnip And Your Cat

2007-04-01T09:49:00.000-06:00

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

2007-03-30T11:45:00.000-06:00

Dealing With A Cat Allergy

2007-03-28T09:46:00.000-06:00

You are suspecting that you just might be allergic to your cat but there is no way that Fluffy is going to be moving out of your house. What to do? Dealing with a cat allergy can be accomplished with a little diligence.

Finding out you are allergic to your cat can be heart breaking. There are a variety of symptoms that can occur such as sneezing, itchy watery eyes, runny nose, sinus infection, headache, and a host of other mild to moderate symptoms that if you are determined enough you can likely find some relief from and still keep Fluffy. But there are also situations that are severe and even life threatening which means you will have to find your cat a new home. Lets assume your cat allergy is one you can live with. So what to do?

Let’s first have a look at some of the other symptoms that can be related to a cat allergy. The list is long – besides the symptoms already mentions other symptoms include eye infections, redness, swelling, itching, post nasal drip, hives, rashes, itchy skin, plugged or poping ears, hoarseness, and coughing. There may also be shortness of breath, wheezing, reoccurring bronchitis which increases during tasks such as grooming or cleaning the litter box.

They may also increase when vacuuming or dusting which stirs up the dander. And often overlooked is that the allergy is actually not with the cat but with the perfumes used in cat products such as the litter. The cat allergy is caused buy allergens commonly the sebum produced by your cat. So it’s not the actual cat hair that causes the allergy but rather a protein that is in the dander and the tiny particles are easily moved around.

So how do you deal with a cat allergy? There are several things you can try. HEPA filters are a great place to start. HEPA filters situated in each room of your home as well as a vacuum with a HEPA filter will certainly help reduce the allergens.

Having your cat neutered or spayed can help your cat allergy because it reduces the sebum level that is produced. Replace carpets with flooring can make a big difference because carpet traps not only cat dander but dust mites, and a host of other allergy causing things.

Bathe your cat regularly and cover your pillows and mattress with tight casings that can help. We spend half of our life sleeping so it makes sense to also keep the cat out of the bedroom. And of course you can also have the allergy shots that are designed to desensitize you.

But wait! There are some natural remedies for dealing with a cat allergy and some are very effective. Seek out the help of a naturopath or do some research online. You can find several products that might be beneficial.

First of all it is a well known fact that allergies including your cat allergy are a result of an immune system that is misfiring, so building your immune system and doing natural things to help bring your body into balance can also be very helpful.

Don’t ignore the simple fixes when you are dealing with a cat allergy. Do it right and Fluffy will spend the rest of her days with you in a life of luxury!

About the Author:

Get all the latest information about Allergies from the only true source at http://www.1allergyinformation.com Be sure to check out our cat allergy pages.

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The Easy Guide To Cat Ownership

2007-03-27T09:13:00.000-06:00

While the title of this article may be a non sequitur, cat ownership doesn't have to be difficult. Cats are highly intelligent and can be trained to do tricks, and can provide years of wonderful companionship. Here is an easy guide to making the most out of your relationship with your cat.

Cats are usually perceived as loners who do not need affection. This is not entirely true. They need affection, they just like to pick the times when they want it. This may mean that your cat decides that 4am is the best possible time for them to have their head scratched, but you can usually train them to respect your sleeping schedule. The key to a happy relationship with your cat is to accept their idiosyncrasies and learn to work within them.

Cat nutrition is an area that is receiving more attention in the media. Cats by nature are carnivores and most brands of cat food include much more grain than meat products. This can create health problems for your cat, such as diabetes. If you are concerned about your cat's health, make sure to read the labels on their food. Try to find cat food's that contain more meat than grain, even if you have to moved to canned food.

Although cats can be destructive, especially to your sofa, they can be trained to confine their scratching activities to "good" areas, such as their scratching post. While many people prefer to declaw their cats, this practice is becoming more reviled in certain circles. When the cat is declawed, they are essentially losing a knuckle of their toe joint, a prospect that is certainly painful. If you decide not to declaw your cat, frequently trim their nails to minimize the damage they can cause.

Spaying and neutering cats is just as important as it is with dogs. Even though your cat may never leave your house, they are still at risk for certain problems that can arise if you do not have them spayed or neutered. Intact male cats are more likely to "spray" or mark their territory than cats who have been neutered. Owners of female cats can certainly attest to the fact that listening to a yowling cat in heat is not a pleasant event.

One of the main issues with cat ownership is proper hygiene, particularly when it comes to the litter box. Once you have trained your cat to use the litter box, try to reinforce their behavior at least one a week to make sure they continue to use their box. Some cats will prefer an extremely clean box, while others couldn't care less. However, you could personally be at risk for disease if you don't keep your cat's litter box clean.

Your cat may not appear to need as much love as a dog or other house pet, but don't let their cool facade fool you. They need you more than you know and with some boundaries, love and training, cats can be wonderful and giving companions.

About the Author:

Quality cat resources: all kinds of cool products like double-decker cat strollers, healing gemstone cat collars as well as cat behavior and pet loss experts who offer telephone consultations.

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

2007-03-25T09:31:00.000-06:00

If your cat displays problematic behavior, your instinctive reaction may be to increase your training efforts in hopes of changing it. Although cat training is an essential part of raising a well-behaved animal, many problems stem from causes that training will not resolve.

Cat owners should understand that behavior problems may have other root causes and that addressing those triggers can be the key to stemming the problem. Misbehavior is not always related to shortcomings in training.

Let us look at some common sources of cat behavior problems that might explain why your cat is having difficulties.

Medical Issues

In many instances, behavior problems are a direct outgrowth of a medical condition. When a cat is ill, it may behave inappropriately. If your cat begins to display a new problem, a change in temperament or seems to be “regressing” in terms of behavior, a trip to the veterinarian may be in order.

If a new behavior problem appears, be certain to rule out a medical cause. Your pet’s unusual behavior may be its way of “telling you” it does not feel well.

Social Issues

Cats are social animals and changes in their social life can have an impact on behavior. The list of potential triggers for poor behavior in this category include introducing a new person or baby into the household, bringing a new pet into the home, or a change in an owner’s schedule or levels of interaction with the pet.

Cats are also sensitive to changes in others behaviors and those alterations may result in problem behavior. If an owner is ill or is acting differently, a cat may respond with inappropriate actions. This may also occur if another household pet develops a sickness or changes its behavior considerably.

Environmental Issues

Cats are particularly attuned to their surroundings. They appreciate consistency in their environment and will frequently react to changes with misbehavior. Anything that changes a cat’s surroundings may have an impact on how it behaves.

Obviously, a move to a new place can be stressful for a cat, but so can lesser environmental changes. Remodeling, new furniture, rearrangement of the home and other things we might see as unmitigated positives may distress your cat.

If your cat is engaging in problematic behavior, it may justify a greater concentration on your training strategy. However, the problem may be spurred by something other than a lack of appropriate positive reinforcement.

Many cat behavior problems can be directly linked to other internal and external factors that will need to be addressed in order for the behavior to subside. In some cases, intervention may be necessary (a veterinary examination, for instance). In other situations, the owner should positively encourage his or her pet while the animal grows accustomed to what it perceives as a bothersome change. After a period of adjustment, behavior may improve.

About the Author:

Get more information about solving your cat behavior problems today - visit http://www.secretsofcats.com

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

2007-03-20T17:34:00.000-06:00

No matter how meticulously clean you keep your cat, or how hard you work to prevent them, fleas are bound to make an appearance sooner or later. If you have never tried to convince your cat of the importance of flea dips, you are missing out a truly harrowing experience, let me tell you. Your cat will most likely want no part of what you are proposing, no matter how much you bribe or beg, and it will probably end in a major battle of wills and brute force, with you hopefully, being the winner. However, I do have some good news to share with you…..you don’t have to fight the battle of the feline flea dip anymore. There are several new flea control methods that are safer, and easier to use, so you and your cat can toss the flea dip out the window, and both of you can do the happy dance once again!

Yes, you can still go the traditional feline flea control route, of using collars and shampoos, but there are still better, easier options out there. There are now flea control medications that you can give your feline friend one time a month, that work wonders on preventing fleas and other parasite infestations. You can give these medications to your cat by mouth, by injection (ouch!), or topically, however you prefer. No matter how you get it done, you must practice some form of feline flea control, if you love your cat. Fleas and other parasites can carry hundreds of deadly feline diseases; can cause tapeworms, infection, and even allergic reactions. Some animals who aren’t properly cared for have actually died due to massive blood loss caused by tick infestations. So, you can likely now see the importance of feline flea and parasite control, even if you didn’t think it was a big deal before.

These new flea control medications work differently than those you may have used in the past. These medications actually kill the parasite on contact, meaning that it doesn’t have a chance to hang around on your cat and have parasite babies, as they often did with the old medications. Talk with your veterinarian about trying some of the new feline flea control medications, and discuss the risks and benefits of them before making a final decision.

One of the new monthly flea control treatments doesn’t kill mature fleas, but can kill eggs before they hatch. This flea control medications uses a chemical called lufenuron, and can be used once a month if taken orally, and semi-annually if administered by the veterinarian in injection form. One disadvantage of this medication other than it not working on mature fleas is that it does nothing to protect your feline friend from ticks. Frontline, however, does have a feline formula that you apply directly to your cat’s fur, which kills both fleas and ticks, and prevents new infestations from occurring. The active ingredient in this feline flea control medication is fipronil.

If you prefer topical feline flea control treatments, rather than those given by injection or orally, you might want to try Advantage. Advantage can be applied once a month, and will work regardless of how many baths your cat gets during that time. This flea control medication doesn’t work well against other parasites.

The best feline flea control medication that works to prevent both flea and ticks infestations is Revolution. This medication comes in the form of a liquid that you apply directly onto your cat’s skin. This feline flea control not only kills and protects against fleas and ticks, but also can protect your cat from heartworms, hookworms, ear mites, and even roundworms.

If you haven’t always done such a good job with feline flea control, your little feline friend may very well already be infested. If that is the case, you will never completely get rid of the fleas until you treat your home too, both inside and outside.

You could always contact an exterminator, if you don’t want to deal with the problem yourself, but you can expect to pay a hefty sum for their services. To handle the problem on your own, purchase at least one flea fogger for each room of your home, and purchase flea spray for areas that are hard to reach, such as behind appliances or in corners. Vacuum everyday, so that you can get all of the eggs out of your carpets, preventing new hatchlings from re-infesting your home; change your vacuum bag after each use. If your cat has soft bedding or toys, they should be cleaned as well.

To treat your yard, you can purchase special flea sprays that are environmentally safe, some even come in containers that hook onto your water hose, making it quick and easy to take care of those outdoor fleas, and protect your cat.

It can be frustrating to get rid of fleas once your cat and home have been infested, but with patience and hard work, as well as a good flea control medication, your feline can be parasite free again!

About the Author:

Learn more about flea prevention and Holistic Pet Health at Natures Healthy Pet

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Keeping Your Feline Friend Fresh With Pine Cat Litter

2007-03-19T09:17:00.000-06:00

Cat litter has definitely provided a lot of pet and homeowners with so much convenience. Before cat lovers had to put up with the unbearable stench of cat urine and feces but thanks to cat litter, Pussy’s excrements are easy to eliminate and no longer as bad smelling. There are many different kinds and brands of cat litter in the market and one of the best of them all is pine cat litter.

Cat litter is used as a filling material for cat litter boxes where house cats defecate or urinate. The cat litter is supposed to absorb the moisture and reduce the bad smell coming from urine and feces, making the litter box more bearable at home. Pine cat litter fulfills these roles remarkably well, making it one of the best choices as a litter box filler.

There are different kinds of cat litter available in the market, allowing cat owners to choose from the wide variety according to their tastes and purposes. Some cat lovers choose cat litter for their odor control and absorbing power. Others choose cat litter that cannot easily be scattered all over the house. Some buy cat litter because they are biodegradable and environment friendly. Pine cat litter apparently can fulfill these considerations as it quite absorbent, track-resistant, and easy to dispose of.

Pine cat litter is a very much recommended type of cat litter for all cat lovers everywhere. A lot of people who have tried other kinds of cat litter such as clay, silica, sand, have ended up using pine cat litter because of its many advantages. There were people who first doubted using pine cat litter, but eventually they realized that it probably is the best kind of cat litter available commercially.

What Makes Pine Cat Litter So Good

Pine cat litter is a very good choice among other kinds of cat litter. First of all, it is organic – a gift of Mother Nature. It comes from recycled materials and it is in itself recyclable. Pine cat litter comes from biodegradable pine sawdust, it can easily be flushed down your toilet in small amounts. It can also be mixed into your garden soil to be used as compost fertilizer, saving you the need to buy synthetic or commercial plant food.

Pine cat litter also does not contain silica dust, unlike other types of cat litter like clay. Silica dust can be hazardous to health, and it would not be advisable to have them in products like cat litter. The dust particles can go airborne and be inhaled not only by your cat but other members of the family as well and this can cause a lot of problems in the lungs. When inhaled, silica dust can induce bronchitis or even lung cancer. It is not worth the risk to get these diseases just for a cheaper brand of cat litter. Pine cat litter would probably be a better choice for you and your cat in terms of health concerns.

Some cat owners get worried that their cats would not welcome the switch from their old cat litter to pine cat litter. Pine cat litter may have a very different texture from other kinds of cat litter. It usually comes in pellet form unlike the softer texture of other types, which seems to be more comfortable for cats. However, cats are actually tougher than most people think and they can definitely withstand the rougher texture of pine cat litter. Some cats may even like the tough consistency better than the sandy and smooth grain of other cat litter types.

Pine cat litter can be the best choice for you and your cat. It does most, if not everything that you would expect from an excellent cat litter. It is a good absorbent and deodorizer. It is easy to clean up and can even have other uses after consumption. It is safe for your health and that of your cat’s. Most of all, it is environment friendly, so you do not have to worry about contributing to the deterioration of the planet.

The next time you buy cat litter for your feline friend, consider getting pine cat litter. It is good for you cat, good for you, and good for the planet. What more can you ask for?

About the Author:

Lee Dobbins writes for http://catlitter.topicgiant.com where you can learn more about cat litter, litter boxes and pine cat litter.

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Helping A New Cat Adjust To Your Home

2007-03-18T09:29:00.000-06:00

If you are ready to welcome a new cat into your home, there are specific ways to make the transition easier, for you and the cat. Whether the cat is a rescued adult, or a brand new kitten, here are some tips to make your newest addition feel right at home.

Before you bring your cat home, you will need to make sure that you don't have any house plants that are hazardous to your cat. Several common plants, such as hydrangeas, rhododendrons, poinsettias and philodendrons are poisonous to cats.

If you are planning on letting your cat outside, there are many other outdoor plants that are also hazardous, such as lilies, clematis, elderberry, mushrooms and even rhubarb. Check with your local extension office for more information on locally indigenous plants that may also be harmful.

One of the first items that you should purchase before bringing your cat home is a scratching post. Place it near furniture pieces such as couches, that cats normally like to scratch. This will help you train your cat to scratch where it is acceptable and can save you a lot of expense in the future. You can use training methods, such as positive reinforcement to quickly teach your cat that they shouldn't scratch your belongings.

The placement of the litter box is very important. It should be in an area that will provide your cat with enough privacy, but it should still be able to be easily accessed by your cat. Make sure you place it in a well-ventilated area to cut down on offensive odors. It is important to keep your cat's litter very clean to avoid the risks of disease and to encourage your cat to use it.

If you have other animals, you'll need to go through the process of introducing your newest arrival. Be prepared for some slight scuffles, this is perfectly normal. However, if your animals get into a severe fight, you will need to separate them. Try to introduce your new cat to the household gradually, and always monitor them during this time to cut down on the risk of injury. It may take your existing animals a few weeks to accept the new cat, but they will gradually warm up to them.

In a multi-cat environment it is also important that each animal have their own food and water bowls. They may not follow your rules, but they'll at least have the option of using their own bowls. You may also need to feed your cats at separate times to reduce fights as your cats get to know one another.

Your new cat may need some time alone to adjust to your house. Try to provide them with their own space, such as a bed in a quiet location, and give them plenty of soft toys to help them feel at home. The amount of time that it takes for your cat to adjust will depend on their individual personality. Try not to push them to accept new things too fast. Just give them time and they will get used to your routine.

About the Author:

Quality cat resouces - everything from cat behavior experts to cool double decker cat strollers.

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