HALLOWEEN CANDY AND YOUR CAT

Watch out for decorations that you cat might get into white indoors. Keep away items that your cat could eat or try to eat. Make sure to keep your cat away from electrical cords that your cat could chew on. Make sure that you keep your candy away from the cat because chocolate can kill your cat just like it can kill your dog. Don't let your cat eat pumpkins either. Cats can actually choke on pumpkin seeds, so be careful!
READ MORE HERE;http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/412720/halloween_safety_tips_for_your_cat.html

CAT HALLOWEEN COSTUMES

CAT URINARY PROBLEMS

If your cat is straining to urinate and only produces a few drops of urine or none at all, he needs to be seen by a veterinarian immediately. Your cat could be experiencing urethral obstruction, and if the problem is not solved, he could die within just a couple of days. What is urethral obstruction, and why is it life-threatening? The urethra is a tubelike structure that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body. Sometimes, mineral crystals or stones form in the urethra and block the path to the outside. The blockage is called a urethral plug. Because a male cat's urethra is longer and narrower than a female's, urethral plugs are most often seen in males (whether or not they are neutered). Once a plug has formed, urine builds up in the bladder. This is not only painful to the cat, but can quickly cause kidney damage. The kidneys' job is to release poisonous wastes from the body; when kidneys don't function properly, these poisons accumulate in the bloodstream. The final result, if not treated: a painful death. READ ENTIRE ARTICLE AND SYMPTOMS HERE; http://72.14.253.104/search?q=cache:3lnLGw3k0_0J:www.healthypet.com/library_view.aspx%3FID%3D54+CAT+URINARY+BLOCKAGE&hl=en&ct=clnk&cd=11&gl=us

How To Treat Diarrhea In Your Cat

Having a cat involves occasional unpleasant issues such as diarrhea. This condition usually is minor and temporary, and a little tender loving care from you can help your cat recover quickly.

Diarrhea is a commonly encountered problem that occurs when food is passed through the intestine too rapidly. It can be caused by allergies, milk, worms, spoiled food, or plants. There are also more serious causes such as tumors, viral infections, and diseases of the liver, pancreas, and kidney. It is important to seek professional help if your cat's diarrhea includes blood or your cat experiences severe depression or abdominal pain.

If your cat is experiencing a minor case of diarrhea, use the following cat care tips:

Step 1: Remove all of the cat's food for at least 12 to 24 hours. Water is important to prevent cat dehydration during severe diarrhea. It should not be removed.

Step 2: If blood appears or if diarrhea continues for more than 24 hours, contact the veterinarian.

READ THE ENTIRE ARTICLE HERE;

http://home.howstuffworks.com/how-to-treat-a-cat-that-has-diarrhea.htm

WHAT TO DO IF YOUR CAT GETS BURNED

The major goal in treating burns in your dog, horse or cat is to relieve the pain and heal the burn without infection or major scarring.

First degree burns usually don’t require any medical treatment, since the fur of your dog or cat will have protected it more than likely from being burned.

Second degree burns need to be checked by a vet if they exceed an area of more than two fists. The blisters that usually occur with second degree burns should be left alone if they look normal. The skin will start healing on its own underneath the blister. The function of the blister is to protect the new skin from infections and further damage. The only thing you can do is applying a light gauze to the blister. Then, once the blister bursts it is important to gently remove the dead skin, for example by washing it off the affected area. READ THE ENTIRE ARTICLE HERE; http://www.natural-animal-care-products.com/Burns-Scars.htm

The Photo above is of a burned heroic mother cat whom saved her 5 kittens from a burning building...Read This Amazing Story Here; http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.cnn.com/US/9604/05/briefs/am/scarlett_large.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.cnn.com/US/9604/05/briefs/am/&h=261&w=300&sz=20&hl=en&start=1&um=1&tbnid=ell-YXq5RtI5UM:&tbnh=101&tbnw=116&prev=/images%3Fq%3DCAT%2BBURN%26svnum%3D10%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26rls%3Dcom.microsoft:en-us:IE-SearchBox%26rlz%3D1I7GGLR%26sa%3DN

WHY IS MY CAT DROOLING? POISON, TEETH, DISEASE ?

In cats, it is important to rule out stuff that they might have eaten, because cats salivate really excessively as the result of ingesting several medications and flea sprays. We have also seen salivation after ingesting small lizards (we have skinks here) and toads. Most cats will leave toads alone so we see this more often in dogs. . If the problem has cleared up and not returned, I would lean towards the possibility of an ingested source of irritation, even if there isn't anything that you can find that might have caused the problem.
Dental disorders can cause excessive salivation in cats.
READ ENTIRE ARTICLE HERE;http://www.vetinfo4cats.com/cdrool.html

CAT OWNERSHIP IN DISASTERS

PET EVACUATIONS IN A DISASTER
In two epidemiological studies of evacuations from disaster, risk factors for household evacuation failure, pet evacuation failure, and pet rescue attempts were characterized. Risk factors were identified using multivariate logistic regression. Case households were defined as those which either failed to evacuate as a unit, evacuated but without their pets (dogs or cats), or evacuated without their pets and later attempted to rescue their pet. Control households were those that either evacuated as a unit, evacuated with their pet, or evacuated and did not attempt to rescue their pet.
READ FULL REPORT AND GET TIPS HERE:
http://www.animaldisasters.com/Pet%20Owners.htm

FIRE SAFTEY FOR YOUR PET CAT

Plan your family's (including your pets') safe evacuation in advance.Remember their usual hiding and sleeping places. During a fire, they'll be terrified, and are likely to hide in their favorite retreats.Always have a carrier readily available for cats and small animals and leashes for dogs.**Purchase Evacsack for a space saving and economical emergency transport.In a pinch use a pillow case as a carrier.If there is time before safely exiting with your pet(s), call 911.In a multipet household in which individual collection may be unrealistic, herd the pets outside through doors or windows, if this is safe and feasible.
Read Full Report and Tips Here:http://www.geocities.com/ttylerbin/

ANTIFREEZE IS POISON TO CATS

As winter approaches, many people will "winterize" their automobiles, including a change of antifreeze. Dogs and cats find antifreeze quite tasty and will drink it when given the opportunity. Antifreeze can be deadly even in small doses, around five tablespoons can kill a medium sized dog. A cat can ingest enough to prove fatal by just walking through a puddle of antifreeze and then licking its paws. Not just dogs and cats are at risk, all animals are susceptible. When ingested animals suffer from drunkenness, weakness, depression, staggering, possible seizures, renal failure (kidney) and even death. They may drink lots of water, urinate large amounts and vomit. Antifreeze should be kept away from your pets and all spills should be cleaned up right away. If your pet comes in contact with Antifreeze take him/her to your local veterinarian immediately. Treatment for antifreeze poisoning needs to be started as soon after ingestion as possible to be effective. The earlier treatment is started, the greater the chance of survival. Once kidney failure develops, most animals will die. Read Full Report and Other Winter Hazards Here: http://www.elmorehumane.com/tips.htm

CAT AND THE LAW

The Domestic Cat and the Law: A Guide to Available Resources

The Legal Status of the Domestic Cat
The status of the domestic cat in common law is very clear: cats are property. However, the common law standing of the cat has changed over the years from being one of property with no intrinsic value, to being valued chattel. William Blackstone, in applying theories of property argued by Hobbes and Locke, provides one of the first common law definitions of the legal status of the domestic cat in his famous “Rights of Things” in 2 Commentaries On The Laws of England (U. Chicago Press 1979) (1769). He distinguishes between animals raised for food and those “kept for pleasure, curiosity or whim [such as cats]…because their value is not intrinsic, but depending on the caprice of owners…” Further, he argues that with regard to animals classed as “domitae” (tame by nature), “[A] man may have as absolute a property as in any inanimate beings.” [2 Com. § 393] Although the cat may have benefited from Blackstone’s assessment that it was a thing of property, it no doubt suffered from his failure to attribute any value to the animal. Read More;http://www.llrx.com/features/catlaw.htm

WHAT KIND OF CAT DO YOU HAVE? TAKE THE TEST

Answer the following fun questions and then add up the numbers to work out your cat's purrsonality type. Pure-breds often have distinctive purrsonalities while mixed breeds have a mixture of traits.

1. When it wants attention, does your cat misbehave or do destructive things?
Always 5 points
Often 4 points
Sometimes 3 points
Hardly ever 2 points
Never 1 point

2. How often does your cat come running if it hears or smells food being prepared (cat food or people food)?
Always 5 points
Often 4 points
Sometimes 3 points
Hardly ever 2 points
Never 1 point

3. Is your cat a fussy eater which only likes gourmet food or is it a dustbin-guts which eats anything on offer (and anything else it can find)?
Not fussy at all 1 point
Sometimes fussy 3 points
Always fussy 5 points

4. Does your cat drag its food from its bowl and play with it or is it a tidy eater?
Very tidy eater 1 point
Usually tidy eater 3 points
Sloppy eater, food goes everywhere 5 points

5. When your cat sees birds or other prey through the window, how often does it get frustrated at not being able to reach them through the glass?
Always 5 points
Often 4 points
Sometimes 3 points
Hardly ever 2 points
Not bothered 1 point

6. Outdoor cats: Is your cat a patient and proficient hunter?Indoor cats: How well does your cat 'hunt' its cat-tease toys?
Very proficient, always catches what it stalks/plays with 5 points
Fairly good, often catches what it stalks/plays with 3 points
What are mice? You mean you want me to chase that toy? 1 point

7. How much does your cat use its tail to communicate its feelings?(For tail-less cats score 2 points and go to next question)
Has an entire tail-language 5 points
Wags tail when happy 3 points
Holds tail up when greeted 2 points
Lashes tail when angry 1 point

8. Is your cat talkative with a wide vocabulary or is it the silent type?
Always talking, complete sentences even, good conversational skills 5 points
Meows and chirrups 3 points
Sometimes meows 1 point

9. Is your cat agile or does it fall off the windowsill/shelf (etc) or into the bath/pond when playing or exploring?
Frequently falls off things or trips over its own feet 5 points
Sometimes falls off things if it is in a hurry 4 points
Very agile and never falls off things/never get on things in the first place 1 point

Now add up your cat's scores and see what purrsonality type your cat is. Remember, this is a fun quiz!
Score
Purrsonality Type
Description
Over 37 points =Frantic Feline
Life is never dull when you have a Frantic Feline. They are intelligent, talkative, hyperactive and easily distracted. They need plenty of stimulation from their owners or other hyperactive cats - but your house might not survive their antics! Typical Frantic Felines are Siamese/Orientals and Devon Rexes.
30 - 36 points=Clever Cat
Clever Cats are lively in body and mind. They need plenty to occupy their minds and they like to think through a problem before taking action. They are often good hunters and retrievers and enjoy playing with their owners. Typical Clever Cats are American Bobtails, Bengals and Burmese/Asians.
24 - 29 points=Magnificent Mog
Active but not highly strung, Magnificent Mogs are well-balanced and easy-going. They display a mixture of purrsonality traits from other categories and make good family cats. Typical Magnificent Mogs are British/America Shorthairs, rugged Maine Coons and Norwegian Forest Cats and most random-bred kitties.
17 - 23 points=Cordial Kitty
Cordial Kitties are cats with New Age philosophies. They are gentle, harmonious souls who waft elegantly around the house. They are easily offended. They would much rather sniff the flowers than wreck floral arrangements. Probably a Buddhist monk in a previous life. Typical Cordial Kitties are Birmans, Balinese and Angoras.
Less than 16 points=Placid Pussycat
True couch potatoes of the cat family, Placid Pussies enjoy snoozing in sunbeams and snuggling up to heaters. They prefer gentle petting to active play and are happy to watch life go by. Elderly cats often fall into this category after retiring from another purrsonality type. Other Placid Pussycats are Persians/Himalayans and their relatives, Exotic Shorthairs.

This is a fun test, it is not intended as a reliable indicator of breed personalities. Not all cats of a specific breed will fall into the suggested category!

SICK CAT ? SIGNS TO LOOK FOR IN YOUR CAT

The Subtle Signs of Sickness in Cats
1. Inappropriate Elimination Behaviour
or Litter Box Use
Inappropriate and annoying elimination behaviors
by your cat can often indicate an underlying medical
condition and do not mean your cat is trying “to get
back” at you. These behaviors can include urinating or
defecating outside the litter box or other problems. A
cat with these behaviors may have any number of conditions,
including lower urinary tract disease, kidney
disease, urinary tract infection and diabetes mellitus.
2. Changes in Interaction
Cats are social animals and enjoy interactions with
their human family and often with other pets. Changes
in those interactions may signal problems such as disease,
fear and anxiety. It may also signal pain, which
can cause aggression.
3. Changes in Activity
A decrease or increase in activity can be a sign of a
number of conditions. Discomfort from joint disease
or systemic illnesses can also lead to a decrease in
activity. Increased activity is often seen with hyperthyroidism.
It’s important to understand cats don’t usually
slow down just because they are old.
4. Changes in Sleeping Habits
The average adult cat may spend 16 to 18 hours per
day sleeping. The key to differentiating abnormal
lethargy from normal napping is knowing your cat’s
sleeping patterns and noting any changes.
READ MORE;http://www.catclinic.com.au/newsletters-pdf/catsonly_Toxoetc2006.pdf

FAT CAT ? PUT YOUR CAT ON A DIET

Obesity in cats is as rampant as obesity in people in the United States. It is your job as a responsible pet owner to help fluffy trim those extra pounds. And it will be hard on both of you.
How did this happen? Obesity in cats has the same root causes as obesity in people: too much to eat, especially carbohydrates, too little exercise, and too many snacks. Many cats are fed "free choice", which means there is food available all the time and the cat eats whenever it wants.
Free choice feeding has probably been the biggest single factor contributing to feline obesity. Although kitty kibble is fast and convenient, it is loaded with carbohydrates in the form of flour and sugar that hold the other ingredients together. Read more:http://qualitycatresources.com/putting-a-cat-on-a-diet-2007-09-11

CALIFORNIA PROPOSED CAT SPAY / NEUTER LAW

AB1634 - California’s Proposed Cat Neutering Law
They’re rioting in Texas! The McAllen, Texas Monitor is adding fuel to the flames by reprinting an article from the Orange County, CA Register - they want nationwide protests. The government is getting into our private business again. What is the big deal? The furor is caused by a proposed California law, AB1634 that requires neutering of animals that come into contact with animal control officers. The owner will be fined (unless they neuter their pet, then). Oh whoa-is-me.
The proponents cite the hundreds of thousands of euthanized animals each year and the cost to catch and house them until they are put down. The detractors say, "It is not the government’s business". The proponents say that an un-neutered female cat can have 100’s of kittens in her lifetime. Actually the number varies depending on your source from 100 to 70,000 (including the offspring of the first cat’s kittens and grandkittens). The opponents say, "It is not the government’s business". No one even mentions the number of kittens that can be fathered by an un-neutered male cat. READ MORE;http://qualitycatresources.com/ab1634-californias-proposed-cat-neutering-law-2007-08-09

CAT LITTER / SWITCH YOUR CATS LITTER SLOW

SWITCHING CAT LITTER
For many cats, the slightest change in what they're used to can create stress. So if you're thinking about changing their brand or type of litter, plan ahead and decide the best way to do it based on your particular cat.
Method #1. Gradual Transition. When a cat enters the litter box, she expects to encounter the same scent (or lack of) and texture on her paws every time. If she steps in and is confronted with a foreign scent or texture, it could potentially create enough confusion for her to feel as if another location would be a better option for elimination. Unfortunately, her location choice might not be to your liking.
If you have to change brands or types of litter, add just a little of the new kind into the current litter at a time. Each day, increase the amount of the new litter so that the transition lasts about four or five days. To maintain an appropriate litter level, just start removing some of the current litter in the box.
If you're switching from a traditional clay litter to a clumping formula, keep in mind that the new litter won't perform as expected during the transition. READ MORE;
http://pets.yahoo.com/blog/catbehavior/2881/switching-litter-take-it-slow/

CATS AND KITTENS TEETH

During its lifetime, a cat has two sets of teeth, a deciduous set and a permanent set. Kittens have 26 deciduous teeth (molars are absent); adult cats have a total of 30 teeth.Deciduous or “milk teeth” begin to appear when the kitten is about four weeks of age. At six weeks of age all 26 deciduous teeth are present. From 11 to 30 weeks of age, kittens lose their deciduous teeth. During this time they may eat less because of sore gums.When the deciduous teeth fall out, they are replaced by 30 permanent teeth. The permanent teeth should be in place by about six months of age.A cat's teeth are well-suited to rip and cut. Twelve tiny teeth in the front of the mouth (incisors): six in the upper jaw, six in the lower jaw do some scraping. They are flanked by two upper and two lower canines, sometimes described as “fangs,” designed to hold prey and to tear flesh. Ten sharp premolars and four molars act together to cut food. READ MORE: http://pets.yahoo.com/cats/health-and-nutrition/244/a-cat-s-teeth-timetable-and-functions/

YOUR CATS HEARING

Hearing
The cat's outer ear (pinna) is connected by 27 muscles and can rotate 180 degrees to scan the environment or to direct its attention to a particular source of sound. Cats can detect higher frequencies than dogs (e.g., a mouse's ultrasonic squeak). They can discriminate with 75% accuracy between two sound sources separated by an angle of only 5 degrees. The direction of the source of sound can also be calculated by the cat sensing differences in the time of arrival and intensity of sound received by the two ears. Rodents don't have more than a sliver of hope of escape when this little tiger is on the prowl! READ MORE CAT FACTS:http://www.catsinternational.org/articles/senses_and_features/hearing.html

CAT LITTER HOW DID IT START?

The Scoop on Litter
Before the advent of kitty litter, cat boxes were filled with newspapers. Entrepreneur George Plitt came up with the idea of packaging ashes from burned wood for cats to use. The cat litter industry had its birth one day in 1947 when one of Edward Lowe's neighbors who was tired of dealing with sooty paw prints, asked for some sand. Edward's father owned an industrial absorbents company in Cassopolis, Michigan so instead of sand, Lowe suggested using absorbent clay. The neighbor loved the product and soon returned for more. READ MORE; http://www.catsinternational.org/articles/housesoiling/the_scoop_on_litter.html

YOUR CATS EYESIGHT

It is not secret that cat vision at night is excellent. But why? When looking into your cats eyes, you will notice that during the day, the pupils are nothing more that little slits. However at night, those slivers open up to encompass almost 90% of the cats eye. This lets in even the faintest amount of light that is available.Another valuable asset for cat vision at night is a special membrane called the tapetum lucidum which is located behind the eye itself. This reflective membrane bounces any available light back to the retina, which then allows the cat to see even better in dark situations. However, cat vision can only be so good, they can not see in complete darkness.So, cat vision is great at night, but what about color? Do they see color like we do, or black and white like dogs? Actually, cats see in between, studies have shown that they do see some color, but not as well as humans do. What cats do see better is movement. READ MORE AT CATHEALTH.COM http://www.acecathealth.com/cat_vision.html

IS MY KITTEN / CAT A MALE OR FEMALE ?

Determining the sex of a kitten may be difficult especially before about 8 weeks of age. The male and the female kitten's genitalia look remarkably similar. If kittens of both sexes are available to compare, it makes the process easier and more likely to be correct. In the male kitten, the scrotum is located below the anus and above the back of the hind legs. The testicles are descended into the scrotum presumably at the time of birth. READ MORE @ PET EDUCATION http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?cls=1&cat=1388&articleid=923

CAT LEUKEMIA / FELINE FELV WHAT IS IT?

How is FeLV spread? Cats persistently infected with FeLV serve as sources of infection. Virus is shed in very high quantities in saliva and nasal secretions, but also in urine, feces, and milk from infected cats. Cat-to-cat transfer of virus may occur from a bite wound, during mutual grooming, and (though rarely) through the shared use of litter boxes and feeding dishes. Transmission can also take place from an infected mother cat to her kittens, either before they are born or while they are nursing. FeLV doesn't survive long outside a cat's body—probably less than a few hours under normal household conditions. READ MORE;http://www.vet.cornell.edu/fhc/brochures/felv.html

ALLERGIC TO CATS ? IT'S THE SALIVA NOT THE HAIR !

Cat allergy is by far the commonest allergy to pet animals and up to 40% of asthmatics are sensitive to cats. The cat allergen is much more likely to cause sensitisation than that of the dog.
The Cat Allergen
A tiny protein particle, the "Fel d 1" allergen is found mainly in the cat skin flakes and saliva. The protein is produced in the cat salivary glands and sebaceous glands of the skin. Cats are fastidious groomers, so they deposit the Fel d 1 protein on their fur by licking themselves.
An allergen is a material, which is capable of provoking an allergic reaction, such as pollen grain, dust mite or animal dander. Cat allergen — the allergy causing material from cats - is not cat hair but a protein present in the dander and saliva of cats. The allergens become airborne as microscopic particles, which when inhaled into the nose or lungs, can produce allergic symptoms.
Although individual cats may produce more or less allergen, there is no relationship between the pet’s hair length and allergen production, and no such thing as a non-allergic breed.
Male cats are more allergic than female cats, because testerone increases Fel d 1 production by the sebaceous glands.
Where is Cat Allergen found?
Cat allergen is present in largest amounts in homes with cats, but has also been found in homes where cats have never been present and in offices or public spaces where animals are not allowed. Cat allergen is particularly sticky and is carried on clothing from places with cats to other locations. It is almost impossible to not be exposed to some level of cat allergen. Of course, levels of exposure will be much higher where cats are present, and these levels are more likely to cause allergic symptoms.
Because cat allergen particles are particularly small (1/10 the size of dust mite allergen), they remain airborne for prolonged periods of time. Cat allergic individuals are more likely to have a rapid onset of symptoms when entering a room with cats, because there is always allergen, which is airborne and can be easily inhaled. Opening windows, using exhaust fans and using high efficiency air cleaners, can decrease the amount of airborne allergen.
Soft furnishings, such as carpets, sofas and mattresses, will hold cat allergen even after a cat has been removed from the home or banished from the bedroom. It has been shown that it can take as long as 20 weeks for levels of allergen in carpets to decrease to levels found in a home without a cat, and up to 5 years for cat allergen levels in mattresses to decrease to such levels. Removal or treatment of the carpet or sofa, and encasing of the mattress, will reduce the continued exposure to these reservoirs of allergen.
Cat allergen is also found on vertical surfaces such as walls. Attempts to decrease cat allergen exposure in a home should include wall cleaning. If the cat is removed to a restricted area of the home, it is important to realise that airflow through the duct system in a hot air heated home could spread the allergen. Efficient vent and furnace filters could help trap the allergens and reduce the spread. READ MORE:http://www.allergyclinic.co.nz/guides/7.html

SUPPLIES EVERY CAT OWNER NEEDS

If you are going to get a cat or kitten here is a list every cat household needs:
Litter box and litter. The litter box, or pan, should be shallow enough for the cat to jump into easily, but the sides should be high enough to contain scattered litter as the cat scratches in it. Commercially sold plastic litter boxes are excellent. Some have high-domed lids on them to keep flung litter from spreading throughout the house.
You probably won't have to worry about training your cat to use the litter box, but you will need to show your cat where to find it. Cats are fastidious and have a keen sense of smell. It is important to clean the pan daily.
Never place a litter box close to where the cat is fed, because cats believe these two duties are quite separate, and they will choose to do one or the other elsewhere. Many people put the litter box in the bathroom, away from high-traffic areas.
Cat dishes. Each cat should have his or her own food and water dishes. These must be shallow; cats like to keep their faces and whiskers clean while they eat.
Grooming tools. Although cats groom themselves, they generally love to be brushed and combed. Long-haired cats must be brushed daily to prevent their hair from matting. Even short-haired cats enjoy the attention and the stimulation of being personally attended to. Use a daily brushing ritual to keep an eye on your cat's overall health and on skin and coat conditions. Some rubber brushes have special teeth that dig down and remove loose dander and dead skin cells. Metal, fine-toothed combs are designed to extract fleas from the coat.
Nail clippers. You also can use human-nail clippers. Read our tips for trimming your cat's claws (see link below) and, if you have trouble convincing your companion to cooperate, ask your veterinarian or groomer for additional advice or a demonstration.
A scratching post. Cats can be easily trained to scratch on a scratching post instead of the sofa arm or mahogany table leg. The scratching post should be untippable and covered in sisal rope or the webbed reverse side of carpet (a fireplace log is also a good alternative). Do not cover the post with the same kind of fabric that you are trying to protect in your home—upholstery or carpeting. That will only confuse your cat.
An inviting bed. Cats will sleep where they want to, which is usually with you. If you do not want your cat in bed with you at night, you must provide a more appealing option, such as a soft pillow or an inviting old comforter. Anything soft and warm, especially if it has your scent on it, can attract your cat. But let your cat discover it; a cat who is forced to lie down on a restricted spot will summarily reject that spot. And consider rethinking your policy against animals in bed. A purring companion at your feet is a better sleeping aid than anything you can find in a drugstore.
Toys. Many common household items make great cat toys. Ping-Pong balls are fun to chase. Or you can make a "mouse house" by cutting a hole in the bottom and the side of a paper bag; flick a wad of paper inside the bag and watch your cat ingeniously fish it out.
Avoid string, ribbon, or rolls of yarn. Cats' barbed tongues make it difficult for them to spit anything out once they begin to swallow it. Besides the potential for choking, string can cause serious problems if ingested.
When buying commercial cat toys, pick one that you could give to an infant. There should be no parts that can come off and be swallowed. Keep small children's toys away from cats. Contrary to the myth that cats only eat what's good for them, toy soldiers have found their way into cats' digestive tracts.

COMMON CAT HAZARDS-KEEPING YOUR CAT SAFE

HERE IS SOME TIPS ON KEEPING YOUR CAT SAFE!

Unplug dangling cords. Some cats like to chew on cords. Until you know for a fact that your cat isn't one of them, it's best not to risk electric shock. Also, be alert to potential fire hazards—lamps can tip over while you are out of the room, causing the shade to ignite and start a fire.
Beware poisonous plants. Many common houseplants, like Easter lilies and philodendrons, are toxic to cats and can kill them if consumed. Follow the link at the bottom of this page for a more complete listing of toxic plants.
Remove tablecloths from unattended tables. New kittens will be especially curious about what's up there on the table and will try to use the tablecloth to climb up. The result could be broken china and crystal and an emergency trip to the vet.
Cover garbage disposal switches. Natural climbers, cats usually find their way to the kitchen sink sooner or later. Many have been known to play with electric switches such as the one for a garbage disposal. Special covers are available at hardware stores to help avoid disaster.
Keep drapery cords out of reach. It's a good idea to use childproofing devices to wind up dangling cords—cats can strangle themselves by catching their necks in the loops.
Close the dryer door. Cats love to explore, especially dark, quiet places. Always check inside large appliances before closing their doors to make sure your cat is not inside.
Make sure your screen door has a securing latch. Cats are safe indoors; they are not safe outdoors. Don't run the risk that your cat could slip out unnoticed.
Pack away precious breakables. Cats in a new home will explore. They will jump on tables, cabinets, sideboards, and bookshelves to investigate their strange domain, and they may accidentally knock over or break fragile items and knickknacks.
Cover your furniture. If you don't want cat hair on your upholstery, put an old sheet on your most enticing sofas and chairs. That way your cat can enjoy the furniture along with you without shedding fur all over it. Simply remove the sheet when guests arrive.

Keep Your Black Cat Safe At Halloween

It's that time of year, Halloween. It is good to know that some animal shelters do not adopt out animals between October 25-31. Also, if you own an all-black, all-white, or mixed black and white dogs and cats: keep a close eye on your pets, as there is a disturbingly high incidence of animals of these colors disappearing around Halloween. Please do NOT give pets of these colors away at this time of year! Believe it or not, there are some people out there who will "sacrifice" black, white, or black and white animals in their Hallows Eve "ceremonies!" Take extra precautions if you own a black cat by confining it in your house several days before Halloween. This will reduce the chances of someone abducting your black cat. The myth about black cats and witches can lead people to do strange things to them. Even kids whom mean no harm may yell at or chase a black cat, scaring the cat much more than the cat scares them.

HOW OLD IS A CAT IN HUMAN YEARS? CAT AGE CHART

Cat's Age Human's Age

6 months 10 years
8 months 13 years
1 year 15 years
2 years 24 years
4 years 40 years
8 years 48 years
12 years 64 years
14 years 72 years
16 years 80 years
18 years 88 years
20 years 96 years
21 years 100 years

It was once thought that 1 year in the life of a cat was equivalent to 7 years of a human life. Recently, a new scale has been accepted: after the first 2 years, the cat's life proceeds more slowly in relation to human life and each feline year is approximately 4 human years. The general consensus is that at about age 7 a cat can be considered "middle-aged," and age 10 and beyond "old."

WHY DOES A CAT SPRAY?

WHY DOES MY CAT SPRAY
Cats spray either to mark territory or to express
unhappiness about changes going on around them. Cats mark their territory in several
different ways: by scratching, rubbing against an object, or spraying.
Urine marking (spraying) is different from a housetraining problem. The cat backs up to an
object, points its tail straight up in the air, and sprays a nasty, smelly shot of urine. Both
males and females spray, though most often a male cat is the offender. There are several
approaches to solving this problem, and you may have to try them all.
If your cats are not spayed or neutered, get it done immediately. Sexual excitement often
triggers marking behavior. A passing cat outside is enough to start it. Altering by six months
of age prevents the habit from developing. An unneutered male or a female in heat can be
especially obnoxious howling, trying to get outdoors, and spraying the door because of
frustration. Spayed or neutered cats can still spray, although they typically do not.
Changes of any kind in your cat's environment can also trigger a bout of spraying, as he
expresses his frustration, confusion, and stress. Some situations that can cause a cat to
begin spraying:

Moving to a new home

Getting a new cat or dog

A new baby or family member

New furniture or rearranging

Moving the litter box

Dirty litter box

Changing brands of litter
As you see, cats are very sensitive and don't have a lot of ways to tell you about their
unhappiness.

NEW LOST A CAT SITE

LOST OR FOUND A CAT? HERE IS A GREAT NEW LINK THAT WILL HELP YOU OUT!http://

WHAT IS A CATS TAIL USED FOR?

The tail of a cat is used for balance, and for communication. Their tails help them when they jump or walk on a narrow space, and are also used for communicating fear, anger, and aggression.
A cats tail is one of the best ways of telling thier mood. A still, raised tail
means a friendly greeting. A sudden whip of the tail shows a threat of
impending attack. A highly excited cat waves its tail from side to side in
jerky, rapid motions. The top of a tail moving means slight dissatisfaction or
impatience. A relaxed cat allows the tail to hang straight down. A tail held straight out behind them indicates caution.

WHEN IS KITTEN SEASON

The time of year when cats give birth, flooding animal shelters across the nation with homeless litters. Kitten "season" is really three seasons in one, starting in spring, peaking in late spring or early summer, and ending in fall. PLEASE SPAY YOUR CAT!!

HOW DOES MY PET GET TAPEWORMS

Dogs and cats are most commonly infected when they eat intestinal worm eggs that have been passed through the feces of an infected dog or cat. Tapeworms can be transmitted to pets that ingest fleas or other intermediate hosts, such as small rodents, that carry tapeworm larvae. Some worm species can be transmitted to puppies and kittens through the mother’s placenta and milk.Most intestinal parasites can be diagnosed through a physical exam and the microscopic analysis of your pet’s feces. Your veterinarian can conduct the examination and fecal tests to determine if your pet has worms and then prescribe the appropriate medication and preventive program.

UPDATE-KILL OR NO KILL ANIMAL SHELTERS ARGUMENTS

The Quandry: "Kill" or "No-Kill" Shelters?
No Kill Shelters Only Accept "Adoptable" Pets You'll hear the argument that "no kill" shelters carefully pick and choose the animals they take in, to guarantee that they are adoptable.
Read the full story and others by franny syufy's About.com:cats
your guide to cats

http://cats.about.com/cs/adoptingcats/a/shelter.htm

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CATNIP AND YOUR CAT ! WHAT IS CATNIP ?

Catnip is a member of the mint family of plants. Its cousins include basil, oregano, and spearmint. All these plants produce essential oils that contain flavorful and aromatic terpenoids such as limonene, menthol, and spearmint.
The leaves, stems, and seedpods of catnip are covered with microscopic bulbs called trichomes, which store the essential oil until they reach maturity and burst. External forces, such as a hungry bug biting into a leaf or a passing animal brushing up against the plant and bruising the leaves, can also release the oil.
That the essential oil is contained inside the fragile bulbs may explain why cats are seen rubbing up against, and even chewing, the leaves. Cats gain nothing by ingesting the leaves because the biological activity of nepetalactone is most likely centered in the olfactory tissues. But chewing the leaves will rupture the tiny packets of oil and release nepetalactone into the air.Because nepetalactone is volatile and will degrade over time, cat owners should store catnip in a freezer to preserve its potency. That way, kitty's next 'nip trip will be as wild and crazy as ever.

WHY DOES A CAT HAVE WHISKERS

Why do cats have whiskers?
Also known as "tactile hairs" or vibrissae, whiskers are the long, thick, flexible hairs on a cat's face. These hairs are located in horizontal rows on the whisker pad, the puffy area between the top corners of your cat's mouth and the outer edges of his nose. Whiskers, like hair and nails, do fall out and are replaced. But whiskers are different from the cat's body hair in a few ways:
Whiskers should never be cut or trimmed (we'll discuss why later).
Whiskers are two to three times thicker than the cat's hair.
Whiskers are rooted very deep in the cat's face, in an area rich in nerves and blood vessels. In addition to having the long tactile hairs on their cheeks, cats also have shorter ones above their eyebrows, on their chin and on the back of their front legs. Since we are most familiar with facial whiskers, let's look at what they are good for:
Navigation
Mood indication
Measuring an opening Whiskers help the cat feel his way around. Whiskers are so sensitive that they can detect the slightest directional change in a breeze. At night, for example, this helps a cat slink its way through a room and not bump into anything. How? The air currents in the room change depending on where pieces of furniture are located. As the cat walks through the room and approaches the couch, he'll know which direction to turn based on the change in air current around the couch.
In addition to having sensory properties, a cat's whiskers are also a good indicator of his mood. When a cat is angry or feels defensive, the whiskers will be pulled back. Otherwise, when the cat is happy, curious or content, the whiskers will be more relaxed and pushed forward.
But the whisker's primary use is to help a cat judge whether or not he'll fit through an opening. A cat's whiskers are roughly as wide as his body -- sort of a natural ruler. The whisker tips are sensitive to pressure. You'll probably see a cat stick his head in and out of an opening before he puts his body in. He's judging the width of the opening, and is determining if he can fit into it. An interesting note: cats don't have a true collar bone, like humans. This allows them to turn and twist their way through very narrow openings

BEHAVIOR STAGES OF A CATS LIFE

Here are some normal behaviors for each cat life stage:
Birth to 16 weeks
Just learning her way around, your kitten may be playful, but most likely shy. Click here for more information on how to care for your new kitten.
16 weeks to 1 year
Your kitten will likely still be very playful and spunky. At approximately six months old, you should spay or neuter if you are not planning to breed your cat.
1 to 8 years
Your young cat is in her prime. Remember your annual visits to the veterinarian.
8 to 12 years
Your pre-geriatric cat may begin to slow down, but her behavior shouldn't change much.
12+ years
Your cat is entering old age. You may begin to notice some health problems. Your cat will move slower if her joints begin to stiffen. She may also become easily irritated.
Final Thought
In any health-related issue, whenever you have concerns about your cat, consult your veterinarian. He or she is familiar with your cat and her medical history and has the professional skill and knowledge to identify and treat whatever might be the problem.

WHY SPAY / NEUTER YOUR CAT

Spaying or neutering your cat prevents unwanted births and reduces the influence of sex hormones on your pet's behavior. In seven years, an unspayed female and unneutered male cat can produce up to 781,250 kittens. Homes cannot be found for most of these animals and many either end up in shelters or on the street. Only a lucky few are adopted; the rest are either euthanized or die from trauma, exposure, starvation or disease. By spaying or neutering your cat, you do your part to prevent this tragedy.
Behavior problems can also be prevented or minimized by spaying or neutering your cat. Sexual behavior in both male and female cats is reduced following surgery. In 90% of male cats, neutering eliminated roaming, urine spraying, and fights with neighborhood cats, regardless of their age when neutered. Female cats no longer show "heat" behavior (soliciting mounting from males). Overall, being sexually intact increases the risk of relinquishment to a shelter. There are, however, large individual differences and not all cats undergo a behavior change following spaying or neutering.

RINGWORM ON YOUR CAT

Ringworm is an infection caused by a fungus that grows in the dead, superficial layers of the skin, hair or nails. It has nothing to do with worms. The scientific name for ringworm is dermatophytosis, and fungi which cause the disease are called dermatophytes. There are approximately 40 different species of dermatophyte, each tending to cause infection in particular species of hosts. In the cat, the cause of more than 90 per cent of cases of ringworm is the dermatophyte Microsporum canis (M canis). This organism can also cause infection in many other species, including dogs and humans. Other dermatophytes that may occasionally cause ringworm in cats are Trichophyton mentagrophytes and M persicolor, (acquired by contact with infected wild rodents) and M gypseum, M fulvum and T terrestre (isolated from the soil).

How do cats become infected with M canis?
Ringworm is contagious. Spores are the infectious stage of dermatophytes and are produced by M canis during an infection. They are typically found in clusters around infected hairs and can only be seen using a microscope. Infected hairs are shed into the cat's environment. Cats may become infected either by direct contact with an infected animal or by exposure to a contaminated environment or object such as grooming tools, clippers or bedding. Spores in the environment are very robust and without treatment can remain infectious for up to two years. Spores attach to the skin and germinate to produce hyphae that invade skin and hair. It is not known how many spores are needed to start an infection. Self-grooming, particularly licking, may be an effective way of harmlessly removing spores from the skin and haircoat. Intact skin is very resistant to infection. Mites and lice are generally uncommon. The point being made here is that some degree of self trauma is probably required to enable fungal infection to develop and that ectoparasite infestation may be an additional predisposing factor.

HEARTWORM IN YOUR CAT

When it comes to heartworm disease, dogs and cats have a lot in common. But new research shows that in cats there is the potential for more severe reactions and even sudden death. Indoor cats are also at risk for heartworm disease. Cats get heartworm disease the same way dogs get it. Mosquitoes transmit the disease by biting an infected animal, then passing the infection on to other animals they bite.
Cases of heartworm disease in cats have been reported across the United States and many other countries. Heartworm disease is most common in areas where dogs are also at risk.
What are the signs?The most common signs of heartworm disease in cats - coughing , vomiting, breathing difficulties, weight loss, and lethargy - are often mistaken for other conditions such as asthma, pneumonia and digestive problems. In fact, most common clinical signs of heartworm disease in cats resembles bronchial asthma.
PreventionOnce a cat is diagnosed with heartworm disease, managing the disease can be difficult. Treatment, as well as non-treatment, is very risky, because there's currently no approved product for treating adult heartworms, and the onset of clinical signs is impossible to predict in cats that are left untreated. Even if the disease is treated, your cat may experience severe complications or even death when the worms die. Prevention is the best medicine. Ask your veterinarian about heartworm disease prevention for your cat. It will help give your feline friend the best chance for a long and healthy life.

GROOMING YOUR MATTED CAT

Here is a few tips to help you with dematting your cat.
Grooming your cat regularly with a brush or comb will reduce the occurrence of mats in the fur. Unfortunately, many cats wind up with matted fur because they hate to be groomed. Here's how to deal with the problem, which occurs most often in longhairs.

1. Attempt to remove the fur mat after the cat has eaten. Cats tend to be more relaxed after meals.
2. Adopt a calm and soothing demeanor as you approach the cat.
3. When the cat is relaxed, try to work out the fur mat with your fingers.
4. If the fingers don't work, get scissorsSnip down the middle of the fur mat, far from the skin. It's quite easy to snip the skin accidentally on longhaired cats, so work carefully.
5. Slowly work apart the fur mat with your fingers, Snipping away a little more if necessary. Reassure the cat in a soothing voice as you snip. If she becomes upset, stop and come back to the task later.
6. Once you've worked apart the fur mat and it's clearly away from the skin, cut it off.
7. Reward the cat's cooperation with a kitty treat or petting under chin, behind ears etc.
8. If the cat has several fur mats, remove them at separate times. The cat will quickly lose her patience after you remove the first fur mat. Build trust with a gentle approach and treats to make future grooming encounters easier.
9. Bring the cat to a professional groomer or a veterinarian if the cat is unapproachable, if the fur mat is in a delicate area or if the mats are extremely tangled cat may have to be given a tranqulizer to get the job done, sedation is much eaiser on your cat then the trauma. Even if taken to groomer might be a good idea to get a kitty relaxer pill from your vet first!

HOW A CATS BRAIN THINKS

FEEDING THE ORPHAN KITTEN

HERE IS A CHART FOR AMOUNT OF FORMULA YOUR KITTEN SHOULD BE FED:

Birth to 1 week: 24cc
1 week: 32cc
2 weeks: 54cc
3 weeks: 80cc
4 weeks: 104cc
5 weeks: 128cc
As a guide, a kitten should drink about 8cc's of formula per ounce of body weight per day.
HERE IS A FEEDING SCHEDULE FOR KITTENS:
Birth to 1 week: Feed every 3 hours (8 feedings per day)
From 1 to 3 weeks: Feed every 4 hours (6 feedings per day)
From 3 to 4 weeks: Feed every 5 hours (5 feedings a day)
From 4 to 5 weeks: Feed four to five times a day.

FROM 4-6 WEEKS OLD YOUR KITTEN SHOULD START EATING ON HIS OWN ALITTLE AT A TIME, AFTER YOU SHOWING HIM HOW OF COURSE BY PUTTING LITTLE BITS ON HIS/HER NOSE AND MOUTH.

CAT VACCINATIONS

HERE ARE THE CAT DISEASE VACCINES YOUR CAT SHOULD HAVE ONCE A YEAR;
1. FVRCP :
Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis and Calicivirus - viral diseases of the eyes, nose and throat (upper respiratory infection) plus Panleukopenia a viral disease of the blood and intestines (feline distemper or infectious enteritis).
2. FeLV :
Feline Leukemia - a viral disease that impairs immunity. Usually fatal.
3. Rabies:
a viral disease fatal to humans and other animals. Vaccination is necessary for all cats. Some rabies shots are good for 3 years check with your vet to make sure which one your cat gets.

DOES YOUR CAT HAVE EARMITES

These are the signs:
1. excessive and persistent scratching around the ears
2. head shaking
3. restless behavior
4. the ears are painful to the touch and the pet may cry out in pain
5. brown material present in the ears
6. a foul-smelling odor.
The villain is ear mites, tiny parasites that live on the surface of the skin lining in the ear canal. Ear Mites pierce the skin surface to feed, causing inflammation and discomfort. If left untreated,bacterial infections and loss of hearing may result. Kittens can acquire an ear mite infection from their mother. Ear mites can be transmitted from one household pet to another.If ear mites are present in a multiple-pet household or a kennel or cattery, it is likely that if one animal is treated, the mites will move to another resident. The best preventive measure is to treat all residents for mites. Left untreated ear problems can have very serious consequences such as:Inflamed ears, Painful ears, Chronic Problems ,Constant medication, Hearing loss,Discharge and odor, intense scratching, ear infections, Sores, Painful blood clots,surgery and high veterinarian costs.

RHINOTRACHEITIS-CAT DISEASE

Rhinotracheitis is a herpes virus. Just like herpes in people, it keeps coming back. It is almost certainly the most common cause of chronic, non-responsive conjunctivitis in cats. It doesn't respond to any anti-bacterial agent because it isn't a bacteria. Anti-viral eye drops are available but may not be very effective, either. There is some evidence that administration of L-lysine is helpful in control of this condition. I am not sure how helpful. It can still be useful to use an anti-bacterial ophthalmic drop but the best recommendation is to use one that will work well against gram positive bacteria, which is gentamycin's weak area. A triple antibiotic drop with polymyxin and bacitracin may work better than gentamycin in this case. This is especially likely in a cat that had pneumonia because of the high probability of rhinotracheitis being involved in that, too. Unfortunately, if this is the problem, chronic non-responsive disease until the body can finally develop immunity for a while is not uncommon. Sometimes, nothing seems to aid this process.

DROOLING IN YOUR CAT

Drooling can occur for a number of reasons in cats. Probably the most commonly identified reasons are gum or teeth disorders. Oral ulcers can sometimes cause excessive salivation. Problems that lead to nausea, such as renal failure or gastrointestinal disease also cause excessive salivation. Some cats salivate excessively when they are nervous or stressed. This is a common reaction to oral medications and application of flea control products, too. Your vet can help sort through these possibilities and hopefully find a treatable cause.
Foaming at the mouth or excessive salivation is common when cats have ingested something more noxious than they expected it to be, when they are nervous, when they have been sprayed with a spray containing alcohol (many flea sprays are alcohol based), when they are nauseous and with a few diseases such as dental disease and calicivirus. There are probably other causes. A brief episode is probably related to ingesting something that was upsetting. I have seen this after one of my cats ate a spider. Licking toads will do this, too.
Hair balls are obviously one cause of feeling nauseous. If you live in an area with heartworms it is another cause of the hacking and vomiting problem some cats have. Inflammatory bowel disease is another. Your vet can help sort through these, too. In general it is a good idea to consider pursuing a diagnosis of vomiting if it is occurring frequently and coughing is almost always abnormal.

TAPEWORM IN YOUR CAT

Here is the short version of the tapeworm.
Tapeworms release muscular egg packets into the intestine. These egg packets are about 1/2 to 3/4th of an inch long when they first exit the rectum and are capable of movement. They wiggle around, spewing out tapeworm eggs until they use up all their energy stores. Then they dry up and look like rice granules stuck in the hair of the cat.
Tapeworms are carried by fleas and are not uncommon in indoor only cats, due to this. Good flea control will prevent recurrence after your cat is dewormed for the tapeworms he has now. There are safe and effective tapeworm medications available from your veterinarian. They are prescription products so your vet may need to see your cat prior to dispensing them if it has been a while since his last visit.

MEDICINE-GIVING YOUR CAT A PILL

Here is directions to giving your cat pills.
Extend your cat's head backwards just enough that her nose is pointing straight towards the ceiling. Most cats will open their mouth slightly at this point. Open the bottom jaw a little more with the little finger or ring finger of the hand holding the pill. It may be necessary to hold her top jaw with the other hand while doing this. The drop the pill or lightly throw it so that it hits beyond the slight hump in the tongue. Most cats will swallow instinctively. Some pills are small enough to hide them in food. A good "last resort" is to find a compounding pharmacy and have them make a flavored gel or liquid out of the medication

FLEA LIFECYCLE

Even though flea season is ending we thought we would give you some information now so you will be prepared for next flea season.
Understanding the life cycle of the flea is necessary in order to control it. The flea has several stages to its life cycle. Adult fleas spend most of their time on the dog or cat - they must be dislodged to leave since they will not do so voluntarily. Despite this, when the flea population on the dog becomes excessive humans tend to be an acceptable alternative to the flea. The average life span of an adult flea is probably about 6 weeks - but fleas can live as long as a year under certain conditions. A female flea can lay 20 to 28 eggs a day. She may lay several hundred eggs over her life span. These eggs fall off the pet and develop where they land. They are small and can even develop in the cracks in wood floors or other small crevices. A larvae hatches from the flea egg. It takes as few as 9 days to as long as 200 days to go through its growth stages. At this time is forms a pupae and waits for the right time to hatch. Fleas prefer temperatures of 65 to 80 degrees and humidity of 75 to 85 per cent. This range determines the period of time that fleas are a problem in your particular area. For some areas of the country, this is all year. In others, the flea season is relatively short. It is estimated that for every adult flea found on the pet, there are about 10 developing fleas in the pet's environment.

CAT DECLAWING

JUST ALITTLE INFORMATION ABOUT DECLAWING WE THOUGHT YOU MAY BE INTERESTED IN,
When a declaw procedure is done, the entire distal phalanx (digit) is removed. It does not have the same effect that removing the last digit from a human has, however. The presence of the protective sheath over the digit, rather than skin tightly adhered to the phalanx gives a natural protective closure after a declaw rather than a sensitive "stub" end. Since the cat uses its feet for walking, orientation and use of the digit is much different, as well. If the footpads aren't disturbed by the declaw procedure (they should not be) the weight distribution on the remaining portion of the toe is essentially the same. Cats tend to use their foot as a unit for manipulation of objects rather than grasping it with individual "fingers" as a human does. This makes for less disturbance in their typical lifestyle than would occur in a human with the loss of a digit.
Without being able to ask them, it is impossible to determine if cats have problems with things like phantom pain or minor discomfort chronically after declawing. These things do not appear to be a problem but there is no way to be sure.

CAT DESTRUCTIVE SCRATCHING

Scratching objects to mark them is a normal cat behavior. This behavior appears to help in claw sharpening and to provide some stretching exercise for the cat. Outside cats tend to scratch wood objects. Some cats prefer a vertical surface and some a horizontal surface. Noticing which your cat prefers can help in dealing with problem scratching. Cats are also picky about the texture of the objects they scratch. Some become very fixated with one particular type of fabric and will not scratch any other surface texture. This can also be important in retraining them. Cats like to pick a prominent spot for their scratching, since they are partially doing this to announce their presence to the world. Putting their scratching post away in the corner of a seldom used room may not fulfill that need. It does no good to try to keep a cat from scratching furniture if an acceptable substitute is not provided. Most cats prefer a longitudinal texture (like the stands on a sisal scratching post which run in one direction, mostly). The scratching post should be at least 1 foot tall ,or long, depending on its orientation. Many cats like a bare, soft wood as a scratching post if fabric ones are not attractive to them. The sturdier the construction, the more likely it is that the cat will like to use the scratching post. If it can be placed in a prominent site that helps a lot, too. If the middle of the living room is not acceptable, putting the scratching post in a prominent site in another room might work ---- but away in the basement probably won't. Paying attention to providing an adequate site for your cat to scratch helps a great deal. When they still won't cooperate and leave your favorite furniture alone, it is necessary to discourage the behavior.
If possible, it is best to remove the object the cat likes to scratch while attempting to change the behavior. If removing the object is not possible, it can be helpful to cover it with plastic, which most cats avoid. Consistently punishing the cat whenever it is seen scratching can be helpful. Spray from a squirt gun is a good deterrent for most cats. Then take the cat to the scratching post and even run its feet up and down the post in a scratching motion (gently!). When you leave the house, make sure the cat is not allowed access to the room with an object it likes to scratch, if possible. Most cats will learn to use a scratching post if you are persistent in attempts to alter the behavior.
If your cat will not stop destructive scratching behavior, declawing is an option that may provide some peace in your household. In studies of this behavior, worries over behavioral changes or long term complications have been unsubstantiated. Most owners feel that no behavioral change occurs after declawing. While this should not be the first choice, it is an option. Declawing can be the difference between being able to have a good relationship with your cat or deciding to consider much less acceptable alternatives such as euthanasia or abandoning your pet. When that level of frustration is reached everyone is better off with the decision to declaw. Alternatives are clipping the claws regularly so they are too dull to cause much damage and using Soft-Paws or beads glued to the claws to prevent damage from them.

ALL ABOUT ABCESSES

Abscesses are a common problem in cats. It is hard to say why cats develop abscesses more frequently than other domestic species but there are several plausible reasons. A bite from a cat wound is more likely to become infected than a bite from most other species due to the bacterial residents of cat mouths. Since cats bite each other fairly frequently this is certainly one reason for the high number of abscesses. This situation is exacerbated by the tendency for cat bite or scratch wounds to have small entry wounds but to cause damage subcutaneously which becomes infected after the small skin wound is already healed. Cats also are prone to immunosuppressive viral illnesses such as feline immunodeficiency virus and feline leukemia virus which makes infected cats more likely to suffer an abscess after a wound.
Most abscesses start out as cellulitis, which is infection of the tissues under the skin. In some cases it is possible to prevent abscess formation by early detection of the presence of cellulitis. Signs of early infection may include lameness, localized pain, lethargy or reluctance to eat. If your cat exhibits any of these signs and your vet can determine that cellulitis is present early administration of an appropriate antibiotic may prevent abscess formation.
After a brief period of cellulitis, an abscess forms. The cat's body attempts to fight the bacterial infection by forming a capsule around it and flooding the capsule with a large number of white blood cells. This collection of white blood cells and bacteria is commonly referred to as pus. I f the cat is really successful at walling off the infection there may be a small abscess. If the cat is less successful at dealing with the initial infection the abscess may be very large. In this case the abscess may cause the skin over the abscess to die. The skin usually turns black and becomes very hard to the touch after it dies. It will fall off eventually if left in place but it is better to remove the dead skin to allow healing to occur faster and to ensure that the abscess can be properly treated. Abscesses that occur around the base of the tail are very prone to causing skin sloughing. Early aggressive treatment is best when there is pain or swelling around the base of the tail.
Abscesses are generally treated by opening them up to allow them to be adequately cleansed with an antiseptic. Abscesses can be very painful. If a cat will not allow an abscess to be opened due to the pain it may be necessary to use an anesthetic agent so that the abscess can be properly treated. If there is dead skin over the abscess is should be removed as well. It surprises many clients that this can often be done without an anesthetic agent, since the dead skin has little or no feeling. The live edges still have nerve endings and many cats do object, though. After the abscess is cleaned most vets will prescribe antibiotics. There is a wide variation in the way antibiotics are used by veterinarians in the case of abscesses. In general it is possible to treat most abscesses with ampicillin or amoxicillin since the majority of abscesses are caused by bacteria that are susceptible to these antibiotics. Once started the antibiotics should be used for at least three days and it is important to use appropriate dosages. It is not usually necessary to use antibiotics longer than seven days and it is often appropriate to use them for three to five days only.
Some abscesses do not respond to standard therapy. Almost every veterinarian who treats cats has run across an abscess that seems impossible to cure. If this happens there are a number of possible causes. It is usually a good idea to culture the abscess site in this case. If the bacteria involved can be grown and identified it helps a great deal. If the bacteria can be grown on a culture plate it is possible to try to kill it with a number of antibiotics and pick one that works -- at least on the culture plate. If it appears that a new antibiotic is necessary that may be enough to cure the problem. Sometimes that isn't enough to cure the abscess, though.
When abscesses do not respond to treatment with standard treatment and after identification of bacteria that can be cultured from the wound it is time to look for underlying causes or complicating causes. There are several things that cause abscesses to be difficult to treat. Feline leukemia virus infection or feline immunodeficiency virus infection can cause the immune system to fail to help clear up the abscess. Despite the "wonder drug" label, antibiotics often need the help of the body's natural defenses to cause a cure. Sometimes the infection is caused by an unusual organism that does not respond to the same antibiotics used for the most common bacteria found in bite wounds. Mycoplasma infections will respond to tetracycline antibiotics in most cases. Nocardiosis infections respond to sulfa/trimethoprim antibiotics used at two to three times the usually recommended dosages. Actinomyces infections may respond to very high dosages of penicillin. A newly recognized variety of bacteria, l-form bacteria, usually respond to tetracycline antibiotics. This form of infection may not be known to your veterinarian. It usually appears as an infection affecting multiple joints with several abscesses or draining tracts that does not respond to conventional therapy. The l-form bacteria can not be cultured in the same way other bacteria are so they are difficult to diagnose. Response to tetracycline may be the best "diagnostic" test available to the general practitioner since confirmation of infection may require examination of abscess contents with an electron microscope.
Abscesses vary in severity from a relatively minor problem that the cat's immune system will handle on its own to complicated, life threatening infections. It is best to treat them early, establishing proper drainage if at all possible, cleansing with an antiseptic and in most cases appropriate antibiotic therapy. Some abscesses are not going to respond to routine treatment methods and will require multiple visits and become very frustrating, both for you and your vet. If an abscess is not responding to treatment it is vitally important that you alert your vet and that you continue to work with your vet to resolve the problem. You may have to push a little for diagnostic testing or use of tetracycline based antibiotics to rule out l-form bacteria and Mycoplasma infections in chronic abscess situations since there is a tendency among veterinarians to continue to use broad-spectrum antibiotics in the face of resistant abscesses rather than switching to medications with a narrower spectrum of action such as the tetracyclines. It is probably not a good idea to use tetracyclines routinely since they do not work as well against the most common forms of infection as other antibiotics and because their mechanism of action makes them harder to combine with other antibiotic therapy to achieve a broader spectrum of action.
Neutering male cats greatly reduces roaming behavior and fighting associated with seeking mates. This also reduces the incidence of abscesses in male cats. It may be best to avoid the whole issue of abscesses by taking this preventative measure!

SIGNS OF SEPERATION ANXIETY IN YOUR CAT

Signs of separation anxiety in cats may occur when the cat is separated from his owner or another companion pet with whom he has a strong bond. A cat with separation anxiety may insist on being with the owner at all times, even following the owner from room to room. When the owner gets ready to leave the house, the cat may sulk and hide, or try to get between the owner and the door. When the owner returns, the cat may show an abnormally enthusiastic greeting.

VOTE FOR FAVORITE CARTOON CAT

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CAT DISEASE FELINE LEUKEMIA

What is feline leukemia virus?Feline leukemia virus (FeLV), a retrovirus, so named because of the way it behaves within infected cells. All retroviruses, including feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), produce an enzyme, reverse transcriptase, which permits them to insert copies of their own genetic material into that of the cells they have infected. Although related, FeLV and FIV differ in many ways, including their shape: FeLV is more circular while FIV is elongated. The two viruses are also quite different genetically, and their protein consituents are dissimlar in size and composition. Although many of the diseases caused by FeLV and FIV are similar, the specific ways in which they are caused differs.
How common is the infection? FeLV-infected cats are found worldwide, but the prevalence of infection varies greatly depending on their age, health, environment, and lifestyle. In the United States, approximately 2 to 3% of all cats are infected with FeLV. Rates rise significantly—13% or more—in cats that are ill, very young, or otherwise at high risk of infection.
How is FeLV spread? Cats persistently infected with FeLV serve as sources of infection. Virus is shed in very high quantities in saliva and nasal secretions, but also in urine, feces, and milk from infected cats. Cat-to-cat transfer of virus may occur from a bite wound, during mutual grooming, and (though rarely) through the shared use of litter boxes and feeding dishes. Transmission can also take place from an infected mother cat to her kittens, either before they are born or while they are nursing. FeLV doesn't survive long outside a cat's body—probably less than a few hours under normal household conditions.
What cats are at greatest risk of infection? Cats at greatest risk of infection are those that may be exposed to infected cats, either via prolonged close contact or through bite wounds. Such cats include:
Cats living with infected cats or with cats of unknown infection status
Cats allowed outdoors unsupervised, where they may be bitten by an infected cat
Kittens born to infected mothers
Kittens are much more susceptible to infection than are adult cats, and therefore are at the greatest risk of infection if exposed. But accompanying their progression to maturity is an increasing resistance to FeLV infection. For example, the degree of virus exposure sufficient to infect 100% of young kittens will infect only 30% or fewer adults. Nonetheless, even healthy adult cats can become infected if sufficiently exposed.
What does FeLV do to a cat? Feline leukemia virus adversely affects the cat's body in many ways. It is the most common cause of cancer in cats, it may cause various blood disorders, and it may lead to a state of immune deficiency that hinders the cat's ability to protect itself against other infections. The same bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and fungi that may be found in the everyday environment—where they usually do not affect healthy animals—can cause severe illness in those with weakened immune systems. These secondary infections are responsible for many of the diseases associated with FeLV.
What are the signs of disease caused by FeLV? During the early stages of infection, it is common for cats to exhibit no signs of disease at all. However, over time—weeks, months, or even years—the cat's health may progressively deteriorate or be characterized by recurrent illness interspersed with periods of relative health. Signs can include:
Loss of appetite
Slow but progressive weight loss, followed by severe wasting late in the disease process
Poor coat condition
Enlarged lymph nodes
Persistent fever
Pale gums and other mucus membranes
Inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) and mouth (stomatitis)
Infections of the skin, urinary bladder, and upper respiratory tract
Persistent diarrhea
Seizures, behavior changes, and other neurological disorders
A variety of eye conditions
In unspayed female cats, abortion of kittens or other reproductive failures