Learn The Fun and Easy Way To Care For Your Cat

The poet T.S. Eliot once said that households depend on cats, and there may be some truth to this. A cat is often a valuable member of the family, especially if it is healthy and happy. Unfortunately, cats aren't always the easiest creatures to live with. You should keep reading to learn how you can become a better pet owner.

Cats really enjoy squeezing into any and all small spaces. Cats that wear collars are at risk should they become stuck somewhere cramped. A breakaway collar has the ability to release its hold if the cat pulls tightly on it. A collar like this could save your cat's life.

Make sure your cat has a collar if it goes outside. Understand that cats may travel a long distance; therefore, if it gets lost, this tag will assist you and others in finding it. The tag should contain your name and number for contact purposes.

You can keep your cat away from electrical cords by spraying them with some bitter apple. If that doesn't work, cover those cords up however you can. You can hide away any cords inside the rolls that come inside paper towels. Electronic items with thin, tempting cords should always be put away when not in use.

Some cats like to scratch up floors and furniture. Buy your cat a scratching posts to focus its attention off your furniture. They can scratch this instead. It may take some time and some corrections, but it can usually eliminate the problem.

Cats frequently groom themselves. If the cat has longer hair, it can be the cause of hair balls. Buy special food in order to help that problem. The are specially formulated cat foods that help reduce the instances of hair balls, which is not only good for your cat, but also good for you and your feet in the middle of the night.

When your cat accompanies you on a trip, remember to consider the health of their ears. You and your cat probably have different ideas about the ideal volume for the car stereo, for instance: Remember that your cat's hearing is more sensitive than yours. This means that you should keep your music turned down or off so the cat can relax.

When you purchase a kitten for your child, set rules and boundaries beforehand. Let your kids know which rooms your cat is allowed in. Be sure that your children understand that an indoor cat must never be allowed outdoors. This will ensure nothing bad happens.

Be careful if you leave a kitten with a young child. Never leave a pet alone with a child who is any younger than five. Most of them simply aren't mature enough to grasp the concept of danger to themselves or the animal. When your children age, you will realize when they're able to deal with a pet.

It's very rewarding to own a cat, though it's not always easy. The tips you've read can help you build a better bond with your cat. Soon, the purrs will become more frequent than the meows.

If you are looking for cat furniture Shel B Smith invites you to http://www.cattreecity.com which is dedicated to keeping cats healthy and out of digging their little paws into house hold furniture. For further cat care advice you can also check out some of our cat care tips

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Feral Cats: What Is a Feral Cat?

Feral cats make up approximately half of the population of felines in the United States. Because these felines live on the street they must find food and shelter anywhere that they can, including abandoned buildings, alleyways, and beneath dumpsters. Most people are aware that these homeless cats exist, though many people do not know the true story behind these feral felines.

Feral cats have been living among humans for over 10,000 years. These felines are the offspring of other homeless cats, which is why they spend their lives on the street. Feral cats live in colonies with other homeless cats, and these felines work together to find shelter and food.

Feral felines have never been properly socialized with humans, which causes them to be wary of human contact. Because of this, homeless cats will often run away or act aggressively if a human tries to approach them. Feral cats are different from your pet cat, and without years of work to socialize them they will never be interested in trusting, or even playing with a human.

Feral cats are not spayed or neutered, which is a main reason why the homeless cat population continues to grow. In fact, a pair of breeding cats and their offspring can collectively give birth to 420,000 kittens in only 7 years.

Organizations have been implementing Trap Neuter Return programs to reduce these homeless cat population numbers. Trap Neuter Return is a program where volunteers humanely trap feral cats, take them to a Veterinarian to be spayed or neutered, and then return them back to their home colony. These felines are often given ear tips to make it apparent to other volunteers that a cat has been spayed or neutered. Ear tips are created when a small portion of a cat's ear is surgically removed by a Veterinarian. Learn more about Trap Neuter Return and ear tips in this Alley Cat Allies video.

Although some communities have devoted volunteers and organizations working to help homeless cats, most feral cats have a tough time living on the street. This is due to a lack of food, harsh living conditions, the threat of animal cruelty, and viruses such as Feline Immunodeficiency Virus and Feline Leukemia. In fact, many of these felines will only live to a maximum age of 5 years old. If you would like to help homeless cats in your community be sure to contact your local animal shelter or organization to find out how you can help.

Niki Rebin, along with her parents Norm and Delva have helped over 3,000 stray and feral cats through their non-profit cat sanctuary Paws On Your Heart. Visit the sanctuary here: http://pawsonyourheart.com. The Rebin family has worked with cats for over 70 years, and they have learned many interesting facts about cats during this time. Get your free cat 

facts e-book here: http://products.pawsonyourheart.com/95-fun-facts/

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Feral Cats - How To Help Feral Cats

Feral cat colonies are taking residence in many communities around the world. In fact, of the approximately 146 million cats in North America, about half of these felines are feral or homeless. Although these homeless felines may be able to survive on their own for a short period of time, they are always in need of help. If you want to help the feral cats in your community but you're just not sure how to do this, consider the following options to help you get started.

Contact a Local Rescue Organization

You can help the homeless cats in your community by contacting a local feline rescue group to notify them that there are stray of feral cats in your neighbourhood. Make sure that the group you are contacting will in fact be willing to work with the feral cats that you are trying to help, unlike some humane societies or shelters who will immediately seize and euthanize any feral felines they bring in.

Unfortunately, many shelters and pounds in North America are forced to euthanize adoptable cats to make room for other cats in their shelter. Approximately 70% of all cats who enter shelters are killed there, with almost 100% of feral cats being euthanized immediately.

Spay/Neuter and Vaccinate

The number one cause of high homeless cat population numbers is a lack of spayed and neutered cats. In fact, a study by the Feral Cat Spay/Neuter Project has revealed that only 2% of free-roaming cats are spayed or neutered, which has led to 147 million kittens being born to free-roaming cats every year. To reduce these populations it's important for cats to be altered, especially homeless cats. This is why many rescue groups are trying to implement Trap, Neuter, Return programs in their communities.

To ensure that your cat doesn't contribute to the increase of homeless cat populations, be sure to have him or her spayed or neutered. You will also want to keep your cat safe from disease by making sure he/she is up to date on all vaccinations. Even if you own an indoor cat, there's always the possibility of escape, so be sure to keep your kitty safe.

Volunteer Your Efforts

If you're extremely dedicated to helping stray and feral cats, consider volunteering at your local feline rescue organization. Some organizations need help right in their shelters, whether you can clean the floors and walls, feed the cats in the shelter, or help to clip some claws, there's always something to do.

In addition, many organizations are active all over their community, especially with feeding stations for the feral cats. These stations are often set up in a safe place where they allow the homeless cats to rest and eat. Volunteers may be asked to check on certain feeding stations throughout the week to ensure that the cats have enough food, water, warm beds and blankets.

Speak Out and Support Cat Groups Worldwide

Teach others about the value of cats whenever you get the chance. Cats, especially feral ones, have far too few advocates and far too many detractors. Educate yourself on the issues and add your voice to the conversation. The best way to inform yourself is to look into the work being done by other cat lovers and cat rescue organizations around the world. Check out their websites, studies, and social media websites to see what is going on in the cat rescue world.

Show Your Concern

Don't be afraid to write to your local, provincial/state or federal representatives concerning improved bylaws for the treatment of stray and feral cats. Especially don't hesitate to contact local authorities if you have witnessed someone mistreating or abusing a homeless cat (or any animal for that matter).

No matter which option you decide is right for you, any support that you can give to the feral cat population will be appreciated by both rescue organizations and the cats that you have helped.

Niki Rebin, along with her parents Norm and Delva have helped over 3,000 stray and feral cats through their non-profit cat sanctuary Paws On Your Heart. Visit the sanctuary here: http://pawsonyourheart.com. The Rebin family has worked with cats for over 70 years, and they have learned many interesting facts about cats during this time. Get your free cat facts e-book here: http://products.pawsonyourheart.com/95-fun-facts/

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The 3 Fluffiest Types of Cats

Cats are one of the popular pets in the world. Their purring sounds, behaviors like rubbing their body over your legs, mewing softly for food as well as the soft body will surely make you stroke them forever! If you wish to have a fluffy cat that would look like a fur ball, then there are the 3 fluffiest breeds of cats that you can choose from. The most important thing is this pet will help you relieve your stress after a long day of work with their behaviors.

Persian Cat

You will fall in love at first sight with this cat as it is popular for its thick fluffy coat. These cats have long furs and hence, you have to take care of them properly. Do you wish to have one of such cat? Yes! Then you have to groom your cat on the regular basis in order to make its furry coat shiny and soft, as well. Persian cats are usually muscular and they are of medium or large size. The cabby body supported by short legs makes them look very cute. This is an ancient cat breed that has a thick furry coated tail. Its enormous face with short ears has made it a popular pet among cat lovers.

Main Coon Cat

This cat has grabbed the second place among the 3 fluffiest breeds of cats. Its water resistant semi long hair makes it look very attractive and cute. The thick and heavy coat of fur along with a beautiful bushy tail makes it an irresistible choice. This particular cat has been the popular pet since the year 1992. Besides that, it doesn't require much maintenance like the Persians and is very gentle and affectionate to its owners. The thick furry look at the neck region makes it look exceptionally cute. It doesn't like to be on your lap as it always likes to enjoy on its own.

Ragdoll Cat

This is the third fluffiest breeds of cat that is known for its fluffy look and is the largest cat breed in the world. This cute fluffy cat has good bone structure and a long body. Moreover, its face always has a sweet expression that is lovely to look at. The silky texture of its medium length coat is lovely to stroke. For maintaining it properly, you just need to brush its coat each week to remove all the loose hairs and detangle the long hairs.

Find more about the different types of cats, from fluffy to furless, over at typesofcats.net.

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Top Ten Ways to Keep Cats Healthy

The majority of cat owners want to keep their pet safe and healthy so the animal can have a long, happy life but some people do not know much about cat health. Caring for cats can be challenging but pet owners who are aware of potential hazards have an easier time avoiding disaster. Here are ten ways people can keep their cats healthy throughout the years.

1) Keep Cats Indoors

Outdoor cats face many dangers. They can be hit by a car, eat poisonous plants or run into a human that is cruel to animals. Outdoor cats can get into dangerous fights with feral cats, unleashed dogs, raccoons and other wildlife. Since outdoor cats are exposed to wild animals, contaminated garbage and other unsanitary outdoor areas it is likely that they will become sick at some point.

2) Provide a Clean and Safe Home Environment

Cats that live in a dirty or cluttered home are more likely to become stressed or ill. They may be exposed to dangerous bacteria or mold that will harm their health. Cats that live in a clean environment are happier and healthier but pet owners should remember to use household cleaners that are safe for pets.

3) Stay Up To Date on Immunizations

Immunizations are essential to cat health. They protect cats from many deadly diseases. Cats should receive their first set of immunizations by the time they are three months of age but it is never too late for a cat to receive their shots.

4) Spay and Neuter

Animals that are not spayed or neutered are more likely to roam and indoor cats may become lost or injured if they get outside. Unfixed Male cats will spray urine in different areas of the home to mark their territory and females will spray while in heat. Female cats that are not spayed can develop mammary cancer or reproductive tract tumors or infections.

5) Keep Your Cat Free of Parasites

Both indoor and outdoor cats can get worms after ingesting parasites. Cats with worms do not always have obvious symptoms so it is important for people to bring their cats to the vet for regular check ups that include worming tests and treatments.

6) Avoid Kennel Stays

Cats can contract a wide variety of illnesses from spending time in a pet boarding facility. People should try to keep their cat at home when they travel rather than placing the animal in a local kennel. A professional pet sitter can visit the home each day to care for cats while the owners is away.

7) Healthy Diet

Cats should eat pet food that contains all of the essential vitamins and minerals they need. The more expensive pet foods usually contain higher quality ingredients. People should be careful not to over feed their cats because overweight animals experience a wide variety of health problems.

8) Exercise

Many indoor cats do not get enough exercise. People can encourage their cat to exercise by playing with their pet each day. Pet owners should invest in a laser pointer because most cats love to chase the light throughout the house.

9) Lock Poisonous Substances Away

Some cats get into everything. Raisins, grapes, vitamins, alcohol and cigarettes can all make cats sick. Certain houseplants are toxic to cats so people need to learn which species are safe and which are deadly. Chemical cleaners such as bleach and disinfectant products should always be kept safely locked away.

10) Create Safe Surroundings

Thousands of cats are hurt each year after they eat a sewing needle, walk across a hot stove burner or step in broken glass. Pet owners need to make sure that they put needles and other small, sharp objects up away from their pets. People should never leave the stove alone while cooking and should keep glass ornaments away from their pets as well.

Read more about cat health. If you are interested in this topic, click here to read what this author has to say about cat health and other related topics.

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Do Dogs and Cats Need Their Teeth Cleaned? YES!

One of the more frequent conversations I have with pet owners before or during a teeth cleaning procedure (or dental treatment procedure) is about having to extract teeth. Usually it goes something like this:

Doctor: "Pet owner, your pet has multiple teeth with end stage periodontal disease. Unfortunately, there is nothing I can do to fix this, so I need to extract X number of teeth"
Pet Owner: "Oh no! Why so many? Do you have to? How is he going to eat? Will he be in pain?"
Doctor: "Yes, there may be some discomfort, but actually the teeth that are diseased are already causing pain. We will treat the discomfort of extractions with medicine at home after the procedure. He will eat fine, but you may need to soften the food for a week or two. We have to take out the teeth because the disease has progressed too far and there's nothing else we can do."

You may wonder why I'm writing an article about this. I'm hoping to explain a little bit about the mouths of dogs and cats, and the reason why we have to perform extractions, so that it may not be a big shock if your pet needs teeth extracted.
I have heard comments about "vets who likes to extract teeth." Actually, that's not the case; most of us prefer not to. If there are no teeth to extract that would mean that there isn't disease present and your pet is healthier. Extracting teeth is sometimes hard work. Most animal professionals prefer to prevent extractions. The fact of the matter is that most animal patients haven't had the dental care needed to prevent extractions, and by the time I perform a dental treatment procedure it is too late.

Let's think about how we take care of our own teeth. When we are children we are taught how to brush our teeth well before the permanent teeth develop. Then we continue that oral hygiene regimen, usually twice daily, often floss daily, and visit out dentist once or twice a year. We have very clean teeth and periodontal disease is avoided. Humans need all their teeth to chew because we grind our food and cannot swallow it whole, so proper oral hygiene is important to prevent tooth loss. We only have 32 teeth (28 if you've had your wisdom teeth removed), so it's necessary to keep them all healthy.

Now let's contrast what happens with our pets. Most pet owners don't realize that their dog or cat has baby teeth and lose them. Sometimes dogs will not lose all of their baby teeth, and if your vet doesn't notice this, (or if your pet isn't taken in to the vet) those extra baby teeth can cause problems. Most pets will have all of their permanent teeth present by 6 months of age. Dogs have 42 teeth (that's a lot!) and cats have 30 teeth. After 6 months of age tooth brushing should begin, but many pet owners don't do this because they've never had instruction or been told to, and many pets resist it. So if a pet is lucky, they get their teeth brushed occasionally, like when they go to the groomer. It's inevitable that plaque and tartar will accumulate and cause gingivitis. Plaque, tartar and gingivitis wouldn't be a big problem if the pet was given a professional, anesthetized dental cleaning once it started to accumulate. But for a number of reasons this doesn't always happen, so eventually that plaque causes gum and bone damage and loosening of the teeth. Now we have end stage periodontal disease, which requires extractions.

Luckily dogs and cats don't need teeth to eat. They don't grind their food like we do, and we can prepare food for them that's in small bites and soft enough to just swallow whole. In fact, many dogs and cats who have no teeth at all still eat dry food! It's not a terrible thing to extract bad teeth, in fact it usually makes the pet feel quite a bit better. Many clients tell me that after having diseased teeth removed their dog is more active, acting like a puppy again, and is eating better.

Pet owners need to understand that tooth extractions are an unfortunate fact of dental treatment procedures for most pets. However, extractions can be avoided if pet owners will take the necessary steps to try to prevent dental disease. These preventative steps include regular visits for dental health evaluations, regular (daily) tooth brushing, and regular anesthetized dental cleanings.

Author Sarah Bashaw can be reached at El Dorado Animal Hospital, a full service, state-of-the-art veterinary clinic designed with client comfort and patient care in mind.

Call El Dorado Animal Hospital for your appointment today (480) 837-0800 or visit our website http://www.eldoradoanimalhospital.com

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