Aug
4
2008

By Kelly Fleming

Cats are a very important part of the family. They have been known to provide years of happiness for the loneliest humans. They have also been known to be best friends to children and adults. But what happens if your beloved family friend becomes ill. Do you know exactly what you should do? Your pet is unable to tell you when something is wrong so it is up to you to notice the signs and symptoms.

The are various forms of infections, diseases and conditions out there in the world today that can be very minor or could result in the death of your Cat. Different serious conditions that have affected a high percentage of Cats are, Feline Leukemia, Feline Aids, Diabetes, Rabies, and Heartworm. These are some of the more popular diseases, conditions, and infections in the world today. More »

Jul
25
2008

By Terry King

Cats are hunters by nature that’s why they love playing with cat toys, it’s one of the ways domestic cats practice their hunting skills. When we think our cats are playing, usually they are using toys for mock hunting games. Cats are naturally inquisitive, so a new object is a reason to explore, and if it moves all the better.

Cats enjoy toys that move the best. Anything that makes noise when played with, or can be pounced on will make great cat toys. To help with hunting your Cats eyes are tuned towards movement. The slightest movement will get a cats attention and encourage it to pounce. As a general rule Cats prefer toys much smaller than themselves. Although small toys are preferred, it is best to ensure that the toys aren’t so small they can be swallowed. Small items can cause permanent damage to a cat’s digestive track or other soft tissue, or worse choking. More »

Jul
23
2008

By Laura Marsh

Every cat owner at one point or another will get a flea infestation. Getting fleas is not only unpleasant for the cat, but can often cause many problems in the home for the owners.

Cat fleas can live happily for months, dormant in larvae form until a suitable animal comes along. This means that they live in carpet and around the home, unseen by the normal inhabitants.

There are a few things the house owner can do to prevent their cat from getting fleas. Cats can have a monthly flea treatment, which is normally in the form of drops that are applied to the back of the neck; the mixture in the drops deters the fleas from jumping on the cat. There is also a choice of powders and sprays that can be used in the same manner. Often the cats do not like the spray due to its noise, but powder is acceptable. If the cat wears a collar, the owner can purchase a flea collar to provide constant treatment, although this will need to be replaced regularly.

Once the cat has been treated for fleas, attention should be turned to the house. If the owner has only recently moved in, it could be that the previous occupants had cats (or even dogs), and the fleas have remained. There are plenty of ways to treat fleas that are living in the house. The owner can buy a carpet powder, which is designed it be sprinkled on the carpet and left for a few hours, killing all fleas and larvae which can then be vacuumed up. There is also the option of getting a professional in to do the work as well. Often professionals will fumigate the house, but there are some specialist carpet cleaners who will just do the carpets and upholstery if fumigating is not an option.

There are many more pet and family friendly methods of flea killing available on the market. One is designed using a heat lamp and sticky paper, the idea is that the heat is associated with a passing animal and the fleas jump and land on the sticky paper and get stuck. Although this may not be the solution for a severe infestation.

Fleas are normally a problem for cats during the summer months when it is warmer, as fleas don’t like cold weather. The owner should not let their guard down when it comes to winter months, as there may still be some fleas around and stopping them when there is only a few can be much easier than trying to control an infestation.

Article Source: Ezine

Jul
21
2008

By Terry King

So you’ve got a new cat or a kitten and you were wondering what you needed. The following is a list of the equipment required for looking after your new kitty.

Cat carrier
These are now usually made of plastic, with a vented door made from plastic, metal or wicker. Plastic carriers are easy to clean and come in different sizes. Cat carriers are a must for taking your cat from the breeder, or rescue center to its new home or for trips to the vets.

Litter Tray
Even outdoor cats will use a litter tray when the weather is bad.
More »

Jul
20
2008

By Darren Davis

Cat Litter is a necessity for many cat owners and the average cat owner will spend more than one thousand dollars every year on purchasing cat litter. Cat litter (often called kitty litter) is one of the materials used in litter boxes to absorb moisture from cats.

However, what is unknown to many cat owners, their cat litter could have damaging health effects for their pet. For example, many cat litter manufactures use clay to make their litter which traps smells but can create mess around the house.

There are many types of cat litter. The main types are clay, sand, clumping litter, crystal and wheat. Each one has it’s own distinct advantages and disadvantages. Some of these are: More »