How To Help Your Local Animal Shelter By Julie S. Montgomery

Many people have a deep love of animals. We love to hold them and comfort them, play with them and tell our secrets to them. Dogs and cats can be faithful companions, our best friends when times turn tough.

Unfortunately, some people aren't well equipped to manage the responsibility that pet ownership requires. Whether emotions cloud good judgment or someone simply doesn't understand the level of care required by pets, sometimes the wrong people end up owning a cat or a dog. At least for a while.

Shelters take in animals that are lost or abandoned, rescued from poor homes, or from people with good intentions but without the means. Whatever the reasons, shelter dogs and cats need medical attention, food, shelter and love just as any other living mammal.

Often cats in a shelter are adversely affected by their surroundings. Even shelters which are set up to attend to their emotional and psychological needs sometimes find that cats which have been waiting for adoption for several months become restless, agitated or even a little aggressive. Part of the reason is they lack stimulation. The small cages don't afford them an opportunity to run, pounce, hide and stalk.

You can help your local animal shelter by considering a donation of some cat trees. Cat trees are furniture items built for use by cats. Constructed primarily of wood, carpet and sisal rope, cat trees come in varying heights and widths. Good cat trees may have a platform perch, an enclosure for hiding, a swing or pouch for lounging, and sisal for scratching.

Cat trees range in expense from sixty to several hundred dollars. If you're thinking of making a donation to your local animal shelter this year, speak with a representative to find out if they have the space for a few cat trees. The cats will greatly benefit, and you'll get a write-off for your taxes.

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

Taking Part In Kitten Competitions By Flora Westbrooks

Kitten competitions are shows where kittens are paraded and made to compete with one another to win a variety of titles. Owners are used to training a kitten to enter these kinds of competitions. Kitten owners register themselves and their cats at such shows where judges check their breed standard and award them ribbons.

Kitten and cat competitions admit pedigreed as well as moggy cats, though the rules of admission differ with each organization hosting the competition. Often a kitten owner will register the pet at multiple kitten competitions to be held throughout the year. Based on points collected over several shows, the kitten is awarded an annual title. Additional titles at the national and regional levels are also awarded at times.

At any kitten competition, a kitten or a cat is judged against other felines of the same breed, age, sex and color. Kitty behavior is also an important criterion on which they receive points. Kittens which are not properly trained have a tendency to hiss, spit, scratch and bite. Such kittens are awarded negative points or no points at all. For this reason, training a kitten properly is very crucial. The largest and most prestigious cat competition in the world is held in November each year at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham, UK. This competition is often described as the Crufts of the world of cats and kittens.

Nowadays, a lot of kitten competitions are held online. The criteria for winning these competitions are of course based solely on the cuteness of the kitten as it is hard to judge breeding and pedigree online. The online kitten competitions do not require the owners to train their cats. Owners send a nominal subscription fee along with their kitten's photo to the site owners who then display the pictures to a public vote. The kitten which gets the most number of votes in the good looks section wins the competition. Online kitten competitions hold no real value. Rather, they are more of fun events and work well to boost the ego of the kitty owners. Perhaps this is the reason why competitions like 'Cutest Pet Contest' and 'Cute Kitten' have become very popular with kitten owners.

If you wish to register your pet for a competition, by all means go ahead and have fun. It is important to remember that while it is good to be competitive, sometimes there can only be one winner and you should love your kitty all the same no matter how she is ranked.

Are you looking for Siamese breeders? Or simply looking for information on grooming cats? Visit our website today and have all your cat questions answered! Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Flora_Westbrooks

Most Popular Cat Breeds By Carrie Atkin

While most people are familiar with the differences between dog breeds, cat breeds often remain a mystery. Below, we've collected information on the ten most popular cat breeds as ranked by the Cat Fanciers Association with information on each breed to help you decide which one would fit best into your home.

Persian

Since the CFA has been tracking cat breeds in 1871, the Persian has been the most popular breed. This large cat is generally calm, easy to handle and quiet with an affectionate temperament. Grooming is usually a chore for Persian owners because of their breed's thick coat.

Maine Coon

Like Persians, Maine Coons have also had a long stay on top of the most popular cat breed list. Maine Coons are very active, making them perfect for their original purpose of hunting mice and rats.

Exotic Shorthair

Exotic Shorthairs are basically Persians with much shorter hair. Like Persians, Exotic Shorthairs have a quiet, sweet temperament, but they only require brushing twice a week.

Siamese

This distinctive breed is very active and vocal. Siamese cats often "talk" with their owners, and can get frustrated if they are ignored. While Siamese cats love being the center of attention, they are also extremely loyal to their owner. Because Siamese cats have extremely short hair, they are very easy to care for.

Abyssinian

Abyssinians are often considered the friendliest type of cat. They are "people cats" and love being near their owners at all times. These cats are small and thin with a shiny coat.

Ragdoll

These cats are extremely large, weighing up to 30 pounds. While Ragdolls are often huge, they are also laid back and quiet. Ragdolls have a thick coat that requires constant attention.

Birman

Birmans will greet their owners at the door and follow them around the house. These are very loving cats and will do almost anything for attention and affection. Birman cats have beautiful eyes and a long coat that doesn't require much additional grooming.

American Shorthair

American Shorthairs make great family cats. While they are friendly and affectionate to all family members and other pets, they have also retained their hunting instinct and will go after household pests.

Oriental

The Oriental is similar to the Siamese. These cats are intelligent and curious, causing them to act like kittens for much longer than most other breeds. Orientals have distinct large ears and almond-shaped eyes.

Sphynx

The Sphynx makes it into the ten most popular breeds even though it is one of the rarest and most unusual types of cats. While the Sphynx looks like it is naked, it actually has very short hair that helps keep it warm. Sphynxes are affectionate, intelligent and extremely athletic.

The author, Carrie Atkin, represents Pawsitively Clean Pet, a leader in pet grooming products. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Carrie_Atkin

Feline Leukemia: Know The Signs and Save Your Cat By Edward Varnum

Signs of feline leukemia are unmistakable. However, because the virus affects the immune system and results in other illnesses, these signs are often mistaken to be something else. They usually vary with the type of leukemia, depending on whether it is multicentric, chest or abdominal and keep changing as the disease progresses from one stage to the next.

Common Symptoms

If it is chest leukemia, the cat has difficulty in breathing due to accumulation of fluids in the chest and constricted windpipe and esophagus. Some common symptoms may include coughing, gargling and swollen lymph nodes in the chest region. Signs of feline leukemia of the abdomen include loss of appetite, jaundice, anemia, constipation, dehydration, depression and weight loss. Malignant cells may start forming in abdominal lymph nodes, intestines, kidneys and liver. Multicentric leukemia is characterized by swollen lymph nodes beneath the skin in different areas of the body and tumor formation occurs in several organs simultaneously.

Related Symptoms of Feline Leukemia

Feline leukemia virus can also cause other conditions like ulcers at body openings, immune suppression, reduced stamina, infertility, and immunity related diseases. You might also observe other signs of feline leukemia like more frequent urination, blood in stool and cloudy eyes. The cat sometimes suffers from cystitis, neurological disorders or inflammatory bowel disease. Since FeLV is transmitted via body fluids like tears, saliva, urine, etc., you'll need to be very particular about their hygiene. Other cats in the household too should be vaccinated and tested two to three times every year.

Pet Insurance for Cats

More than two out of every three cats contract FeLV once in their lifetime. One out of every five sick cats gets diagnosed with feline leukemia. Not only this, leukemia is also responsible for one-third of all malignant tumors in cats. The disease has no cure but there are ways to control and slow down its progress. Given an extremely high rate of incidence and expensive treatment and control procedures, it is advisable that you invest in a suitable pet insurance plan before your cat shows signs of feline leukemia as insurance doesn't cover diseases diagnosed as pre-existing conditions.

Do you love your cat, but are concerned that you might not be able to afford feline leukemia treatment? If so, pet insurance was made for you. With pet insurance, you can rest easily knowing you'll never have to choose between your precious cat's life and your own financial health. But you need to know what to look for in a policy to make sure you get the coverage you expect.http://www.pet-insurance-info.com will give you all that information and more. Go ahead. Visit today. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Edward_Varnum

Cat Behavior - Help Your Cat to Stop Peeing Everywhere By Bryan Burbank

Cats are funny creatures and they seem to have a mind of there own sometimes. You can never really understand how they think and act and this is normal amongst cats. It is common that male cats like to mark there territory and by doing this they pee in certain areas. If you have more than one cat this can be a major problem for you.

It can cause you a lot of problems because when a male cat urinates it can cause real bad smells. There urine is also laces with ammonia and can cause your carpet and furniture to be ruined so it is important to address this issue sooner than later. You do not want them to continue doing this bad habit for an extended period of time

You may have yelled at them and told them this is the last time you are going to allow them to do this. In truth we love our cats and it is hard to see past there faults but you need to take action so that they can learn new better habits.

This is a common problem when you have a male cat and other cats in the house. You have to remember that they are creatures of habit and they want to alert the other cats in the house that they have territory and they should not get near it. The truth is if you see this happen early on in there life then you should take action then.

Remember that cats urinating in your house is usually a sign that they are marking there territory. You think that they are trying to upset you on purpose but this is a natural thing that they do. Make sure that you deal with this situation before they destroy your carpet and your furniture.

Get Free: Cat Urination Tips How to Improve: Your Cats Behavior Bryan Burbank is an expert in the field of Animals and Pet Issues Article Source:http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bryan_Burbank

Feline Kidney Disease - What Are Some Common Causes and Symptoms? By B. A. Williams

Feline kidney disease is one of the most common cat ailments. It usually occurs in older cats, but it has been known to happen at almost any age. Although not all causes and symptoms of cat kidney failure are well known, veterinarians have been able to identify some of the reasons why the disease occurs, some of the things to watch for, and a few things that can be done to help prevent it in your cat, and help him to live a longer, fuller life.

Causes of Kidney Disease in Cats

One of the most frequent contributors to the development of feline kidney disease is lack of enough water in the diet. Remember that cats originated in Africa, and are genetically evolved to live in a very dry climate. In such a habitat, most of the water in the diet comes from the prey that the cat hunts and eats. As a result, cats do not tend to drink enough water. Many cat owners feed their cats strictly a dry food diet, which can cause them to become dehydrated over time. This is hard on the kidneys, and if continued can help to cause kidney disease.

Another thing that has been linked to disease of the kidneys is when the cat has dental or periodontal problems. Good hygiene is a very important part of taking care of a cat's teeth. If the teeth or gums get swollen with infection, the toxic substances leach into the cat's bloodstream and eventually get into his kidneys. Although the kidney's function is to filter out toxins in the blood, the antibodies produced to fight the infection can accumulate over time, causing disease and lasting damage.

Finally, there is some indication that the vaccine for feline distemper may be related to development of swelling in the kidneys, which probably contributes to the cause of disease. Keep in mind that your cat does not need distemper shots every year. Talk about this with your veterinarian to make sure you have the latest information about vaccine recommendations. In fact, as your vet will probably tell you, if your cat has feline kidney disease, he should not be given any shots whatsoever.

Symptoms of Kidney Disease in Cats

It's a good idea to watch your cat for any signs of kidney trouble. Early detection can be extremely valuable, and would allow you to get a head start on any treatments put in place by your vet. It is generally recommended to start testing your cat's blood for signs of kidney disease once he reaches the age of about seven. In addition, you can do your part at home by observing your cat's behavior and appearance.

One of the first and most noticeable symptoms of the disease is an increase in drinking and in urination. Keep an eye on your cat, especially as he ages. If you notice him drinking more water than normal, or visiting the litter box to urinate more often, you should talk to your veterinarian. She will most likely recommend a blood test for your cat, so that any disorder can be positively identified. There are several conditions that can cause increased drinking and peeing, so it's important to find out what is going on in your cat's case!

Other symptoms that occur as a cat's kidney disease becomes more serious are lack of interest in eating, weight loss, vomiting, and worsening quality of his coat. These symptoms normally start to happen only after the disease has progressed significantly. So again, do your best to detect any signs of problems in your cat, and see your veterinarian right away if you notice something wrong. With feline kidney disease, time truly is of the essence!

*** In honor of my beloved Felix, who passed away from kidney failure on November 4, 2009 *** All the best to you and your feline friends, Beth I am a life long lover of cats who has shared my various homes with more than twenty cats over the years. I always enjoy learning from my cats and sharing what I learn with others. Please visit my blog at Our Cat's Place for the latest tips and articles. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=B._A._Williams

How To Help Shy Or Fearful Cats By Dr. Signe Dayhoff

When I first encountered "Smoochie" on the street, this small brown tabby looked at me with dilated pupils, hair standing on end, her back arched, and her thin tail bushed to twice its size. She looked petrified and indecisive, unsure whether to run or attack. Then after I rescued her, she would not come near me. She ate warily, constantly glancing from side to side. She was afraid, but not just because I had captured her. She was afraid more likely because of fearful experiences in her past.

While cats need to feel fear to respond appropriately to potentially dangerous situations, some cats seem more shy or fearful of the non-threatening and unfamiliar than do others. They may hide, disengage in the presence of other people, new cats, or other animals, or become aggressive. As a consequence, they may not appear very sociable. However, this does not mean they cannot or will not change and become more relaxed and friendly... with a little help from you.

Shyness and fearfulness in cats tend to be primarily the result of fearful experiences. While these bad experiences make a particularly big impression on the cat during its critical stage of development (from about 2 to 7 weeks of age), such experiences later on can be traumatizing as well. Like humans, cats have to learn that they are accepted, belong, and can depend upon those conditions. They need to learn to associate people, other animals, and inanimate objects with something positive and pleasant--non-threatening--so they can become more sociable.

Of course, prevention is always much better than a cure. But when you have not raised the cat from kittenhood, given it frequent and loving handling, exposed it to positive social situations during its first 7 weeks, you can only employ counter-conditioning methods, patience, persistence, lots of love and understanding--and FOOD--to help it work through its fear or shyness.

Desensitizing a fearful cat uses essentially the same procedure as desensitizing a child who is afraid of cats, except you are probably not going to be using food to attract and reward the child in the presence of the feared object or person. Overall, you want the cat to be experiencing something positive as it sees the feared object at a distance. For the exposure to have its positive effect, it is necessary to keep the cat within eyesight of the object. You can do this by having it on a harness and leash or in a carrier. In a stepwise process, you move the feared object closer while the cat is enjoying something pleasurable. By following these guidelines, I helped "Smoochie" feel more comfortable, confident, and secure with me. In fact, now she is a "pet-aholic," frequently dogging my heels for a tummy rub. Of course, not all cats will recover to the same extent or as quickly as some others. But fearful and shy cats can lead much happier lives if you will help them tame their fears and become more sociable. That is a win-win situation.

Signe A. Dayhoff, Ph.D., is a Cat Whisperer, Social Psychologist, Cognitive-Behaviorist, Cat Rescuer, and "Kitty Mom of 20." She and her feline alter ego, "Smoochie," show you how to become "cat smart." Becoming cat smart is discovering how to communicate with your cat's "inner tiger" in order to create the rewarding relationship with your cat you desire. Your cat's "inner tiger" is that mysterious intangible, seemingly reflecting something secret and special. It is what resonates with the core of your being and magnetically draws you to your cat. Discover how you can communicate with your cat like a cat whisperer athttp://www.LoveYourCatsInnerTiger.com/. Subscribe to Dr. Signe's free weekly "Cat Smart Inner Tiger Tips" and claim your complimentary "Cat Gratitude Letter Exercise." (It's great for use with humans too!) You and your cat will be glad you did. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dr._Signe_Dayhoff

Keeping a Cat Healthy By Derrick R Anderson

Cats are very popular domestic pets. Most owners are responsible and take good care of their cats. Despite this, there are some illnesses and conditions that are difficult to prevent your pet from getting. Keeping your feline happy and healthy requires some knowledge about what to look for when your kitty is suffering from an illness or ailment.

Fleas are a common problem for cats and dogs. They can be, especially, troubling if your pet gets the opportunity to go outdoors. Fleas cause itching and bite the pet's skin. They can, also, carry tapeworm eggs and cause anemia. Signs of fleas include hair loss, skin lesions, and excessive itching or scratching. Over the counter flea treatments are sufficient to deal with the problem and prevent it from reoccurring in the future.

The next most common health problem in cats is internal parasites. These include things like tapeworms and roundworms. Diarrhea and vomiting are common symptoms of roundworm infection, while tapeworms can cause skin irritation around the anus. Treat these with a de-worming medication that can be found in pet departments or pet supply stores.

If you cat is scratching at his or her ears a lot or shaking it's head there may be ear mites in it's ear. Ear mites are a parasite that can damage the eardrum if steps aren't taken to remove them. They spread quickly from host to host and show as small, dark spots in the ear and ear canal.

Viral infection is another thing to keep an eye out for. Feline leukemia virus is the top viral cause of death among cats. This cancer is spread through saliva or common use litter box areas. Tests are available to detect this virus but as it is a cancer, it is almost always fatal. If you suspect your cat has a viral infection you should seek the help of a veterinarian.

Legacy Cages offers high quality cat cages at affordable prices. To keep other pets safe try their wide selection of pets cages. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Derrick_R_Anderson

Discover How Cat Trees Can Protect Your New Furniture By Julie S. Montgomery

Contrary to what many people believe, cats don't shred furniture, wood or carpets because they're vindictive or angry - at least not all the time. Likewise, they aren't sharpening their claws on your couch or carpet. Cats that claw in this manner are actually grooming themselves, working to shed the extra sheath that is wearing away. They're simply doing something natural. Shaggy carpet and the "catch" of your furniture upholstery strongly resemble the bark of a tree. It's this reason why cat trees can be so beneficial if you've got a weaponized kitty.

Cat trees offer the perfect play scape for cats, but they're not just for playing and maintaining some kind of exercise. A functional cat tree can go a long way toward the overall health and wellness of your cat. While it may be surprising to some, a cat's ability to establish territory plays a big part in their overall level of contentment. For example, a cat without a place to call their own can develop a variety of anxiety issues over a short span of time.

Part of the clawing process of your furniture and plush new carpet is a territorial need to establish what is theirs. While most people believe that cats mark their territory by spraying, they actually have scent glands in the pads of their feet. As they "claw", this scent transfers to the item or area as a means of letting other animals know - "This is mine."

Of course humans can't detect the scent; all we know is that snowball just shredded the corner of a new couch. This kind of incident can be avoided by investing in one of many varieties of cat trees for the home. This can give a cat the perfect space to groom their claws, apply their scent, and claim their rightful space as king of the mountain over your living area.

If you have a kitten (or multiple kittens) it pays to get cat trees for those pets quickly. Once a cat begins to mark an area and starts to work their claws on furniture or carpet it can be difficult to curb the habit. Early introduction to cat trees can ensure that your pets practice their grooming habits in a controlled environment, on furniture that didn't cost you a month's pay and a heart attack.

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

Great Gifts For All Cat Owners By Robert Spadinger

Did you ever wonder what kind of gift you could provide to someone who is a cat lover? I agree, if you are not a cat owner yourself this is not an easy question to answer. After all, what else does a cat need than some food, a place to sleep and maybe a litter box? But who wants to give a pack of cat food cans or a litter box for his friend's birthday?

Now, let me provide you with some ideas that are a bit more original and fun than the ones mentioned above:

* Picture frames: That's always a good idea. All cat lovers like to have framed pictured of their little feline friends. You even could think about giving away one of those digital picture frames. That way, your friend could have an entire series of cat pictures displayed in one place. The only disadvantage of digital picture frames is that they are still a bit expensive. On the other hand, prizes have gone down quite a bit lately and now you can get the smaller format frames for about $15.

* Catnip: That's really a funny gift with a very special effect on your kitten. Catnip contains aromatic oils that make felines appear to be drunk and very hyper - which is always great entertainment for cat owners and guests. Catnip is made from a natural plant and absolutely safe for cats to consume. These kind of substances are also often found in toys and playing balls.

* Books: All cat owners love cat books, yet most of them don't have any. That's a great opportunity for you to provide a nice surprise. There are hundreds of different books - just have a look at Amazon. You can buy books on the different breeds, on how to train a cat, on how to properly take care for a kitten... and on hundreds of other subjects.

* Hair Ball Remedies: Almost all felines have hairball problems. Fortunately, nowadays you can get various remedies to eliminate hairballs. Hairball remedies usually come in gel form and they are available in different flavors: malt, fish, chicken...

* Grooming Supplies: There exist all types of cat grooming supplies, such as: clippers, brushes and combs, which can help to make an already good looking cat look even greater. When you do a quick search on the Internet, you will be surprised how many different grooming products actually exist: Tear stain pads, herbal ear care, herbal shampoo, herbal conditioners, hair remover, fur busters, grooming gloves... and the list goes on and on.

As you can see, there are plenty of possibilities to make a cat owner and his or her feline friend happy. I hope, the gift ideas mentioned above will help you in choosing the right gift for your cat loving friends.

Cat-illnesses.org shows you how you can protect your cat or kitten from the most common cat illnesses. Find also a wide variety of information on cat vitamins, cat breeds, cat caring and other subjects. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_Spadinger

Benefits of Having a Cat Inside Your House By Karl Real

The relationship between humans and animals is indeed amazing. Even though humans and animals have different languages both of them managed to understand each other. The bond between a pet and its master is truly remarkable. It is so wonderful how a human being can understand the needs of his or her pet even though they have different ways of communicating with each other. It is also pleasing to know that animals can truly feel and appreciate the love of their masters towards them.

Almost every person in this world is willing to have a pet of their own. A pet is commonly a type of domesticated animal that lives together with its master. There are several types of animals that can be considered as a pet. It is not difficult to choose a pet if you are really willing and determined to have one. However you need to consider some important things before going to a pet shop. This is because there are some types of pets that are not suitable for your current condition.

The first thing that you need to consider before raising your own pet is yourself. You have to be sure that you can handle the responsibility of having a pet inside your house. You also need to consult the decision of your family. It would be great if you already have their approval before having your own pet because it will also help them to adjust for the future situation.

You should not also rush things up in choosing your own pet because it may lead to an inappropriate decision. You should also put your own schedule into consideration if you really want to have your own pet. You should also remember that raising and taking good care of a pet is a serious business. A pet requires your attention and your care at the same time for it to grow a healthy life.

One of the most common types of pet is a cat. According to psychologists cats have a unique way of elevating the moods of their masters. Most of time cat and kitten owners are women. According to some myths those individuals who have chosen cats to be their pets are prone to become old maids. The best thing about having a cat inside your house is that you will no longer feel all alone. Even though a cat is just a pet it can certainly comfort you when you feel down.

However you must not take your pet for granted. You must be responsible enough in taking good care of your cats or kittens. You must give your pet the care that it deserves. If possible you should treat your pet the way you treat yourself. You should not forget how to manage the needs of your cat. Just like other typical types of pets, cats are also prone to different types of diseases. In order for you to prevent your cat from having any forms of illnesses you must give it the necessary things for it to survive.

A pet completes a family. They are one of the reasons how a family and have a quality time with everyone. They unite the hearts of the family. Learn more about the psychological impact of cats and kittens. They might be small and helpless but they have a strong effect on the development of your child. Follow here for more details on how you can give the proper care for your pets. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Karl_Real

What Can Stress Out Your Cat? By Banko Stoianov

Cats, just as people, can have a very stressful life. Your cat doesn't have to worry about money like you, but there are many stressful moments. Actually, all living creatures experience stress at some point of their lives. The majority of kitty owners don't even realize that their lovely pets may be stressed but if the cat is under stress some behavior problems may occur. This article will provide information about the top five things that may stress your cat.

A new family member is really stressful for cats, no matter if it is a newborn baby, another cat or a person who is moving in to live with the family.

Holidays are also very stressful events for cats. Felines are animals that enjoy quiet and calm environments and if people like having parties during their holiday, their pet may get really stressed. Parties are associated with many people, loud music and noise - all these things are very stressful for cats. Have you ever notices that your cat hides somewhere when you have a party? You can help your pet by providing a hidden place of its own where can hide away from the noise without anyone bothering it.

Mobbing into a new home is also very stressful for the cat because moving means new environment for your cat, and cats don't like this. Most cats are really scared to have a new home. You can comfort your per by bringing its litter box, toys and bed from the old home.

Your beloved "family member" may be stressed by a change in the routine. If your routine changes somehow, the cat's routine will change, too. It sounds amazing, but changing your job can be very stressful for your pet.

If you have started working after a long time spent at home, your cat may be seriously stressed. You can try dangling your keys before you leave home and the pet will get used that you are getting ready to leave. Your pet will soon get used to the fact that you will leave your home every morning.

This kind of pet owners know that their pets love looking out of the window but this may also stress the cat. For example, in a strange cat passes by and marks the territory, this can be stressful for your cat because she can't get to the other cat. This situation can cause both stress and anger.

They are wonderful pets but they need attention, just like people. So make sure you pay enough attention to your cat to avoid stress and behavior issues in your beloved cat.

We at O2Cats have a large selections of cat trees, cat toys, cat scratching posts, cat beds furniture at lowest price online. We offer FREE Shipping and Quality Services. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Banko_Stoianov

Keep Your Cat's Claws Where They Belong By Julie S. Montgomery

It is impossible to keep your cat from scratching but very possible to keep them from scratching on your furniture and walls. By providing them with appropriate places to work their claws you can keep you things untouched.

Scratching is an instinctive behavior that cats cannot refrain from doing. Not only is it something they enjoy doing, scratching is a way of marking and a form of exercise. Understanding why felines scratch should make it obvious why you can't keep them from do it. Some uneducated feline owners try to eliminate scratching by taking drastic measures, which can be harmful to their cats. Declawing is one of those measures and is not a recommended solution. Another ineffective solution is punishing the kitty in hopes they will "learn" to not scratch. The resolution to the problem is to provide your cat with their very own cat scratching post.

There is no excuse to not have one or several scratching posts if you have a cat as a pet, especially if it is an indoor only kitty. On their own, cat scratching posts are often small enough to fit into any room. If floor space is limited you can find some that are designed to hang from a doorknob or hook. But, they can also be a part of larger cat trees or cat furniture, which can be a little harder to place in a smaller home or apartment. Having these scratching areas scattered around the house is the most effective way to keep your feline's claws off your things. If you keep in mind that a cat in the wild would most likely choose a tree or stump to scratch on, you shouldn't have any trouble understanding why the sisal covered posts are usually a feline's favorite. One may think that because the arm of your sofa is shredded, they should be given a soft or plush scratching post. This is not so, the kitty was just making due with what was available and will, without a doubt, prefer a wood or sisal post instead.

Place different styles of cat scratching posts around your home and make sure they are secure, if your cat pulls it over and scares himself, he may not use it again. Once proper scratching areas are available for your cat, you can then try to modify his behavior. It may be a habit to walk to the sofa and dig in his claws, so you can remind him of his new and improved scratching areas. It wouldn't be surprising if you kitty stops destroying your furniture on his own, after all, the scratching posts are much more appealing.

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

A Fresh Guideline on How to Use Fresh Step Cat Litter By Uzma Shafiq

This brand has been on the market since 1984. The brand is famous for the cat litter products. An indoor box that is used by the cats to pass feces and urine is called a litter box. The filler that is made to use in the litter box is made of different materials. As we all know that cats have an instinct to pass the feces in soft dug materials. The litters are made in accordance to this instinctive inclination. Good quality litter is soft and loose. Get the one that makes you pet comfortable. This product is known for its quality. The brand has different types of litter that include fresh step clay litter, fresh step crystal litter and the fresheners and wipes for your cat. In case of the fresh step clay litter, it is promised by the brand that the litter will make your home smell good and fresh. Instead of filling the place with bad odors, this Fresh Step cat litter will keep the environment nice smelling.

This fresh step cat litter is able to absorb the odor because of the clay. It is also provided with the power of carbon that aids the clay in absorbing the moisture and odors. The granules of this litter are filled with fresh scents so when they are scratched by your cat, the granules will give off sweet scent. This fresh step cat litter has a special technology to stop the odor causing bacteria. Another cat litter is the one that is provided with crystals. This litter is five times more efficient than the clay litter. It is light weight and efficiently absorbs the moisture and odors. The unique shape that is given to the crystals minimize scatter and they are easily scooped out. They are soft for the cat's paws.

Taking Care of Kittens - A Wonderfully Tough Responsibility By Odessa Flores-Lemence

It is safe to say that a lot of people love dogs, though some others are just not the dog-lover type. They may prefer to pet turtles, birds, hamsters or maybe even wild animals, while some others, just loves cats or kittens. Personal likes and dislikes differ, but there is one thing that's certain: pets provide us with more than just companionship.

Kittens have wild instincts. However, they make wonderful pets. They are versatile, affectionate, intelligent, sociable and independent. Taking care of kittens may sound easy, but it requires a lot of responsibility. This responsibility leads you to raise various questions about caring for kittens.

Cat-proofing your home

Kittens are playful animals. So, cat-proofing is essential. Make sure your home is safe for the kitten. Always keep the doors of your dryer, cabinets and low cupboards closed. Kittens love to sleep in dark, warm places. They also love to nibble, run around and just play with anything. Keep them away from breakable valuables and don't leave things on the floor that might be hazardous to the kitten.

Milk, food, and drinks for kitty

Kittens generally have small stomachs. They need to eat every few hours, and they need to constantly have clean, fresh water available to keep them hydrated. A diet rich in protein, calcium, taurine, and other nutrients are good for cats. They may be fed with dry food, canned, or both, but don't give them dog food since it it not rich in taurine, which is good for their eye development and helps prevent heart disease. Cow's milk may be good for us but for kittens, it's a no-no.

Quality time with kitty

The first few weeks of a kitten's life should be treated as a very precious moment in your relationship. Cuddling, petting and playing with them is highly essential. Do not let your kitten play with your finger for it will only give her the idea of finger biting, scratching, and the like. Play with your kitten gently and enjoy her soft purrs!

Veterinary care

The first visit is important and critical because the vet will perform a hands-on physical exam on the kitten. Fecal float determines worm infestation. Kitten vaccination is crucial from the first few weeks of age. At about 9 weeks, the 3-way vaccine will be given. This is the modern method of giving a 3-in-1 shot against feline calicivirus, herpes virus and feline panleukopenia. Booster shots will be given at 12-14 weeks old. Rabies vaccine are only given when cats are at risk or in some areas required by law.

Caring for kitten may be tough, but the rewards are priceless. Companionship, constant love, acceptance, and reduces stress!

Taking care of kittens is a fulfilling experience. Choose from your favorite cute kittens and unravel the reality inside! Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Odessa_Flores-Lemence

The Responsibilities of Cat Owners By Banko Stoianov

Owning a cat is not just giving them food and playing with them from time to time. Before you get a cat home you need to fully understand your responsibilities in order to avoid future problems. The average lifespan of cats is approximately 15 years, so the relationship between the cat and the owner may last 20 years in some cases. If you understand that it means to take care of a cat, then this relationship will be calm and you will be able to avoid many problems.

The initial expenses of sheltering a cat may depend quite much. If the cat is a pure breed it may even cost $1000. If you get your cat from an animal shelter you will have to pay a fee of $100 - $150 but this fee usually includes vaccination and neutering.

Cat owners are responsible for providing their pet with proper medical care. There is cat insurance policy available which may be very good investment because you will not have to pay for unexpected procedures. But most often a cat owner will have to pay initially about $250 to vaccinate and neuter their new pet.

It is very important to provide your cat with comfort. If you have more than one cat at home, you need to provide each of them with their own litter tray, feeding bowl, bed and toys. Additionally, you will need to have grooming brushes, scratching posts and climbing posts.

A proper diet is also very important for the cat. Cats should be fed with food that is suitable for their age and physical condition. Incorrect food may cause diarrhea, teeth and urinary problems, as well as much more serious health issues. So, cats should be fed with wet food and dry kibble every day. And don't forget to give your per fresh water. Adult cats should be fed two times per day. It is recommended to leave small amounts of dry food for them all day long.

If your pet has long hair, you will have to brush the pet at least three times a week. This will prevent the matting of the fur and will reduce the amount of hair balls. Matting fur is a serious problem as it is painful and needs to be removed by a professional vet. In case you have a short-haired cat, you should brush it at least once a week.

Claws and their trimming is also an essential responsibility for cat owners. If you keep the claws of your pet well trimmed you will help you keep your furniture safe and sound because the cat will be less likely to use the furnishings as a trees with scratching posts. You need to check the claws each month and to trim them with nail clippers in order to keep them in good shape. You also have to provide one or more scratching posts for your cat.

Cats are prone to some parasites and the owner need to take care about that. You should treat your cat for flea and worms every month. Also, wipe the ears of the cat regularly to avoid the presence of ear mites.

Vaccinations are an obligation for the cat's health. There are three diseases you must protect your pet from: feline enteritis, cat flu and feline leukemia; they may have fatal outcomes. Cat owners should know that looking after a cat may cost about 21 dollars per week, if they don't have the right cat furniture (cat beds, cat trees, cat scratching posts and much more). In addition, this commitment requires a lot of time and attention. If you think you can't do all that for your pet, then it is probably better to not get a cat.

We at O2Cats have a large selections of cat trees, cat tree furniture, cat furniture at lowest price online. We offer FREE Shipping and Quality Services. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Banko_Stoianov

Myiasis in Cats

Myiasis in cats is one of, if not the most, horrifying conditions any owner will ever witness in their pet. Although most cases of this very troubling condition are considered mild to serious, some cases can be quite severe. It is severe enough; the sections of your cats skin that has died will have to be removed. If a significant amount of your cats skin has been severely infected, skin grafts may have to done as it damages can be that severe.
What is it?
Myiasis in cats has no gentle description as to what it is; maggots. There are actually two official definitions of myiasis; infestations of your cats tissue by fly larvae, or a disease that results because of this infestation. However you choose to describe it, it is still very horrifying, very gross, and much more harmful than a lot of owners actually understand. While it is widely held that maggots are extremely useful in research and can actually help some human infections, there is nothing further from the truth when it comes to your cat.
Maggots themselves are actually fly larvae that will feed on necrotic tissue, which is the death of a cell or group of skin cells that are the result of injury, disease, or another pathologic state. If your cat in exclusively an indoor cat, they have very little chance of contracting myiasis unless they come into contact with another infected cat. However, if your cat does go outside for even brief periods at time, they are considered at risk.
If you live in an environment that is damp and your cats skin remains moist for any extended period of time, they are especially prone to attracting myiasis or maggots. If your cat has any type of a wound that is draining, a bacterial skin infection, or has come into contact with urine or fecal that has become infested, they are now considered prime candidates for this horrible disease.
How is it spread?
Myiasis in cats are spread from numerous species of flies, however, the most common fly that affects cats are what are referred to as blowflies. The blowfly will lay their eggs and in some cases it can be hundreds of eggs, on or near the infected tissue, inflamed tissue, or the decaying tissue of your cat. They not only can very easily sense these areas of your cat, they are also extremely effective at attaching themselves. This larva is cone shaped and has very specialized mouth parts designed for this task.
Their mouth parts including hooks as well as suction type structures that immediately accomplish two things; they lap up the liquid on your cats skin as well as piercing the skin. Another very troubling aspect of these fly eggs is that they hatch within 24 hours after landing on your cat. After they have fed on your cat and have matured in size for a period of five to seven days, the maggots than leave your cat and enter the soil.
Types of infections:
The most common type infection with Myiasis in cats is what is referred to as cavity or wound myiasis. With this form of attack on your cat, they go after what is called artificial openings, such as wounds. However, they are also equally attracted to natural orifices such as your cats sinuses or their palate areas around the nasal passages. Cutaneous myiasis is also very common, and is a situation where the larvae are found either on your cats skin, or under their skin.
If this is the case, these maggots will cause intense itching in the skin that will also result in swelling. This is also referred to as a creeping eruption, and if it becomes severe enough, will require surgery to remove the maggots as well as to repair your cats skin. The third type of the infectious process is intestinal myiasis, and although it is very common in humans, especially children, it is very uncommon in cats.
Symptoms and treatments:
Myiasis in cats does not show a lot of symptoms, but those that do appear will be very definitive. The first sign to watch for that your cat may have maggots is the appearance of any moist skin areas, especially around any type of a wound. However, these signs may also appear at or near any place were your cat has come into contact with urine or feces. The key here is contact. The last set of symptoms is the actual identification of what looks like rice in these areas.
However, this is where the bad news really begins as they anything but rice; they are maggots. They can range in size form one quarter inch to as large as one inch and they also have one other very telling sign; there will be several of them as it is extremely rare for there to be just a couple.
The first form of treatment of myiasis in cats is to remove them physically. Although this may sound easy, it is extremely difficult. Maggots are very strong and as a result, it is very difficult to kill them. There are several very effective insecticides that can easily kill maggots, but if your cat has any type of immune suppressed system or weak at all, you may also kill them in the process.
Shaving the hair of your cat around the affected areas is the first step so you can examine the extent of the infestation. If it is a new infection and they are almost exclusively on the surface of the skin, you can remove them yourself. However, this is also extremely rare and in most cases you will see firsthand where they have become embedded a lot deeper than you suspect. If this is the case, you will need to seek immediate professional attention as the actual removal can take several hours.
However, there are a couple of other reasons removing maggots should always be left to your veterinarian. First, they are trained in the techniques and will have to use a very mild and safe insecticide throughout the process. After each application, they will thoroughly rise off your cat to protect them from the insecticide. After all of the maggots have been safely removed, your veterinarian is the only one qualified to make the next decision. 
If the infection is severe enough, they will let the infected skin die and then remove it. If the infection is extensive and a lot of your cats skin has been damaged, they will have to give your cat skin grafts. This can be quite expensive but it may be the only process that will save your cats life at this point.
Summary:
Myiasis in cats, if caught very early, can safely be removed without a veterinarian. However, it the vast majority of cases most owners will have no idea their cats are infected until the symptoms begin to appear. By than it is too late and removal must be done by a professional. Sustained skin moisture in your cat, as well as inflammation or infection of any type is a literal calling card for maggots. However, as gross as this infection is, most cats survive without any real long term damages.

I am an avid lover of pets and my wife and I have had several pets throughout our years. We are especially fond of dogs, and we have a 12 year old Dalmatian (our 3rd) and a "mutt" that we rescued when someone threw him away to die in a vacant field. He found us, nearly starved to death, and weighed about 2 pounds. After severe bouts of mange and severe dehydration, and over 1,000.00 in veterinarian bills, we saved the little guys life, and he is one of the best, if not the best, dogs we have ever had and today is a muscular, fit, and firm 70 pound best friend. After finishing my MBA, which at middle age was not easy, I decided to keep the research work ethics that I acquired, and devote about two hours each night in understanding the health benefits of supplementation for both humans and pets and how they might strengthen our, as well as our pets, immune system in a pre-emptive approach to health rather than a reactionary approach. Both of my daughters are avid cat lovers, and asked me to help them with health concerns and challenges with their cats. I am not a veterinarian nor claim to be, just a lover of pets that loves to research and pass on some knowledge that might be helpful, or at least stimulating to the thought process. Several of the articles that I have written can be found on my website; Liquid Vitamins & Minerals for Humans & Pets http://www.liquid-vitamins-minerals-humans-pets.com/ Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Frank_Will

Feline Arthritis

By Richard Willis 

If you have lived with your cat for quite a number of years now, and you have noticed changes in its gait and even its personality, then your aging cat may be having feline osteoarthritis. Feline osteoarthritis usually strikes aging cats. It is a very painful experience for them because the cartilages that connect their joints have started to tear down. As a result the bones frequently rub on each other, causing a lot of friction resulting to pain.

Normally, cartilages cover the ends of the bones and help build a bridge between joints. They serve not only as connectors to these bones but also as protection so the bones that have nerve endings will not rub on each other. When feline osteoarthritis starts to have its degenerative process on the joints, then apart from the cartilages tearing away, osteophytes also build up around the joints that cause even more stiffness and pain.

Feline ostearthritis has many causes apart from aging. With aging, mother nature takes its natural course on every living thing, which is the wear and tear. Other causes might be that there is an abnormal stress put on the joints of the cat, which may be excess weight. Another might be due to metabolic or nutritional disorders, or that of immuno-deficiency disorders. But whatever the cause, having feline osteoarthritis takes the life away from the cat.

Cats are like women who like to hide what they feel. You'll know that there is something wrong when they start to limp or get lethargic. They will also frequently lick the affected part. Other signs that should alarm you is when there are changes in their behavior. If back then they used to cuddle a lot, now when you approach and try to pat them, they become aggressive and violent.

For more more information on All-Natural Joint Pain Relief for Your Pet go to http://felinearthritis.org. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Richard_Willis

Cat Tree Condo

If you have a cat or several of them in your home and you don not want them to obliterate your furniture, you should think about getting a Cat scratching post or some Cat tree furniture. A good scratching post or cat tree condo with a scratching post built into it, will save you a lot of money and trouble.

Kittens enjoy sleeping on or in, a specially built cat condo. Many kitty condos come with a built in house, and a fleece covered bed, for kitties nap time. Some even come with a hammock, so they can swing themselves to sleep.

Many people settle on not de-clawing their pet kittens since when you do have their claws removed surgically, the kitten may become very scared of people and can eternally be afraid of people who come to your house. So, a Cat tree condo as described above is a wonderful solution to a widespread problem. When your kitty gets used to the scratching surfaces in the unit, it will leave the carpet and the couch alone.

Most people who study feline illnesses and symptoms know they enjoy playing. They also know that cat furniture, especially a cat tree condo, is a wonderful source of playing for the domesticated feline. They can jump, run and play in and around the tree like structure all they want and also use it as a spot to lie down, rest and slumber. Some of the more intricate cat tree condos set aside spaces for the animal to go into and hide. A lot of kittens love to be inside an enclosed space or beneath something so they can be away from view or not out in the open.

There are many places to buy your cat furniture online. Some people even like to create their own and you can do so too by finding some cat scratch post plans and making your very own customized cat tree condo.

A fine cat scratch post built into a cat tree condo is a win-win situation for all cats and cat fans alike. Not only do they look good but they are truly practical and save your valuable furniture from getting damaged by those amazing pets you adore.

If your are serious about keeping your cats and saving your furniture from being torn to shreds then you must invest in a a cat tree condo that has a cat scratching post built into it. For more information visithttp://www.pussycatfurniture.com/cattreecondo/index.html