March 15, 2010

Reasons That Make Cats Excellent House Pets

by Lisa Oswald

Cats are one of the most common household pets in our homes today. They are specifically known as domesticated cats in an effort to classify them from their untamed counterparts in the wild.

Domestic cats are best characterized by their soothing sociability. Many cat owners treasure their companionship to the point of considering them as a part of their respective families and not just animals that they keep.

A lot of people would prefer to keep cats as pets rather than other animals. The presence of pet shops, animal shelters and pounds has made it relatively easier to get one and today, cats are known to be one of the most suitable pets worldwide.

You may be wondering what advantages they can offer you as a pet owner should you go ahead and jump in with a new feline friend. If so then this article may just help and provide you with an insight with regards to raising a cat.

First off, it is always good to know that cats have one of the finest techniques in providing their masters some well needed stress relief. Many people keep pets for this purpose alone. If you are one of them then you can no never go wrong with a cat.

However, one of the advantages of selecting a pet cat is that most of them can be easily toilet trained. A toilet trained cat can go a long way in keeping your house clean and relatively free of germs.

A cat which is house-trained means less work for many pet owners. A dog for instance, needs to be taken outside and walked several times a day.

In contrast, cats are perfectly well suited to playing inside the house all the time. You can keep them indoors with no real trouble.

Set your expectations though once you do get a feline friend. Due to their playful nature they may be a little harder to undergo any kind of obedience training. It can be easily done however, with patience and the right skills.

About the Author:

Filed under Cats by Aaron Reynolds

Permalink Print

March 14, 2010

Kitty Litter Box Cleaning Tips

by James Litterman

Roughly everyone, adults as well as kids likewise possess a genuine fondness regarding cats and kittens. They are loving, quiet, as well as really playful domestic pets which may provide you many years of amusement. While almost everyone have got a fondness regarding cats and kittens, that fondness can swiftly diminish when it comes to the actual kitty litter box. Even the most hardened cat lover may get tired of litter box duty, especially when it comes down to scooping “you know what” from the kitty litter box.

Pet cats are extremely intelligent, instinctively knowing precisely how they need to make use of the cat litter box. After the cat has done using the kitty litter box, someone in the family has to scoop the waste material from the kitty litter box. This can be a quite dirty and somewhat smelly job, one which can be often overlooked during the day any time the workload becomes heavy. Cleaning the actual cat litter box is not going to take but a couple of minutes, though most might choose not to get it done at all. Nevertheless kitty litter boxes will need to be scooped out everyday, it’ll must also end up being changed each 7 days also, simply by throwing the current bag away and replacing the box with a brand new bag together with fresh Crystal cat litter.

People that don’t like to scoop out the cat litter box should really invest in one of the best inventions ever - the self cleaning cat litter box. These kitty litter boxes tend to be easy to use, and can keep the area clean. Immediately after the cat has used it, the actual self cleaning cat litter box will on auto-pilot clean the litter either by sifting or even utilizing a device which resembles a rake.

Self cleaning cat litter boxes which use shifting will often times have a round design. As soon as the cat leaves the covered box, the actual dome on top will revolve for the litter box to clean. The actual litter inside the box will be shifted with the waste being placed below the litter where it is discarded. As soon as the waste material is properly removed, the litter will be returned to its normal position in the box for your cat to make use of again.

Boxes which have raking systems will often times sport a rectangular design. After the cat leaves the box, the rake will instantly come out and clean the litter. The rake will clean all of the litter within the box, including the clumps of waste as well. Rakes are popular, even though shifting cat litter boxes are certainly more popular and more common.

Those that in many cases are times away from home could possibly greatly benefit from a self cleaning cat litter box. They’re great to have for cats which spend considerable time on their own, because they literally eliminate any kind of scooping of litter on your part. One can find them at your neighborhood pet or department store, even on the net also. They’re very reasonably priced - plus ideal for anyone who doesn’t like scooping waste from their kitty litter box.

About the Author:

Filed under Cats by James Litterman

Permalink Print

March 13, 2010

Feeding Your Dog A Raw Meat Diet Can Mean A Healthier And Longer Life For Your Pet

by Angelus Siracusa

Dogs are instinctively born to eat a diet of raw meat just like their mammal cousin the wolf. In the dog food industry it’s known as a BARF diet or bones and raw food diet. The dog’s earliest ancestors were capable predators.

Just suppose releasing your dog into the wild. His hunting and predatory instinct would kick in and he would hunt, kill and eat in order to survive.

Experts would argue that feeding your dog raw meat is how a dog is meant to eat. Dogs today are mostly domesticated and most owners are not always fully aware of the best possible foods they can be giving their pet. A dog’s daily food intake should include raw meat and vegetables. If inclined, in addition to dry or canned dog foods.

A BARF diet consisting of raw meat supplies your animal with the needed nutrition he/she requires to really be healthy. If your pet consistently consumed raw meats and vegetables instead of over manufactured or over processed pet foods, then his/her digestive and immune systems would be significantly healthier.

There will be a noticeable change in the overall quality of your dog’s skin, coat, breath, eyes, and teeth and gums. In addition, your pet will develop a higher energy level and an overall happier disposition.

Lately, veterinarian researchers are discovering diseases and other serious medical conditions developing in dogs and cats not seen for many years. One reason could be the lack of vital nutrition that a BARF diet could be supplying.

Most owners feel their pets are satisfied by eating over processed dry and canned pet food. In reality, most pets maybe getting enough to eat, however they maybe nutrition starved by not getting the proper foods.

Some dog owners won’t even consider giving their dog or cat raw meat. They have a preconceived thought that raw meat may be tainted with parasites and bacteria. However one must consider that parasites and bacteria don’t adversely affect animals in the same way they do people. Thus one should consider at least looking into providing their pet a BARF diet.

Most owners want their pets to be the healthiest they can be. In that case, consider providing a variety of foods your dog would typically consume in the wild. Preparation is really not that hard to do - just make sure to provide your dog a selection of raw meat and vegetables every day. There are many recipes you can find if you’re willing to do some additional research on BARF dog food diets.

About the Author:

Filed under Cats by Rudy Damascus

Permalink Print

March 11, 2010

Cat Trees Can Help Your Indoor Cat Get Exercise

by Carol Navagato

When it comes to cats, they have certain instincts and needs and you can solve a lot of them with a cat tree. Cat trees are simply wooden structures that allow cats to climb indoors. They come in many varieties and styles, and with a bit of research you could actually build one yourself if you have a certain design or need within your home.

There are those pre-made cat trees at most of the pet products stores. Usually made of wood that’s been covered with carpet. This allows your kitty to have traction or to sharpen their claws on the wood or carpet. It also offers platforms that your kitty will climb too to rest or play. Some have just one platform and others have multiple platforms and houses at the top. All of this benefits the health of your cat.

If you already have a cat you’re aware how much they prefer to sit or rest above the action in your home, you’ll find them on the tops of things such as your refrigerator, perhaps a bookcase, the top of your closet or even the TV. A cat tree can allow them to solve this need by giving them a place all there own.

Next you’ll find that your cat will probably exercise more. This is especially important for those cats that don’t get outside to play; indoor exercising is a must in order to keep your cat as healthy as possible. Without enticing things to do, your cat may become overweight, which will shorten its lifespan. You can actually put toys or hang toys in the upper area of the cat tree as they are made to be quite stable.

If you have special needs in your home where a pre-made cat tree will not fit, or you have more room and would like a bigger cat tree than you can find, you can build them yourself. It really doesn’t take much to do. You’ll need some very basic building skills such as using a hammer and nails, a small saw and be able to follow a building plan.

Look for carpeting that accents your decor, and if you’re on a budget, look to remnants to cover the wood on the cat tree. Be sure not to purchase inferior building materials as it needs to stand on it’s own with several pounds of kitty playing on it.

Whether you choose to build your own cat trees or purchase one already made, remember it’s not just about allowing your cat the thrill of climbing. It’s about offering your indoor cat a chance to exercise in a healthy way and yet still keep the cat hair from inundating your closet.

It’s easy to find cat trees, look anywhere pet products are available, check online, and look in the want ads for a used cat tree if you need to find one cheaper. Build your own if your on a budget or need one of special dimensions. Don’t forget when shopping for your cat tree online that you’ll need to add shipping and handling into the cost.

About the Author:

Filed under Cats by Carol Navagato

Permalink Print

March 8, 2010

The Long History Of The Cat

by Maxine Lumkin

Cats have been an animal of mystique for centuries. Possibly it is their slightly reserved nature, or perhaps it is the mystery in their eyes, only whatever the reason, umpteen venerable religions and myths had cats as a central part of the story.

In Egypt, a cat god called Bast was worshipped beginning in the Second Dynasty. The protector of Ra and pharaoh, the goddess Bast was known by numerous names, such as Pasht, Ubasti, Pakhet and Ubasti as she was worshiped over the ages. She was a lunar immortal, which is fitting since cats tend to be nocturnal in nature.

During earlier times Bast was depicted as a lioness, her image bit by bit shifting to resemble a domestic cat with human traits. Soon the Egyptians started to revere the beasts themselves, as they pointed to the cat-god Bast.

Mummified cats have been discovered in the tombs and pyramids of some Pharaohs as they carried their felines into the hereafter with them.

The Sphinx is still another dramatic example where the semblance of a cat is apparent. Possessing both the face of a human and the long body of a lion or a cat, this amazing statue and graphic symbol of ancient mythology represented the ultimate composite deity. The Sphinx was part of Egyptian, Greek and Assyrian myths.

The cat is not excluded in the ancient Christian religion. Some claim that the tabby cat bears an M on its head because that is where the Virgin Mary touched a cat when baby Jesus was born.

The Islamic faith as well has a thought about the M marking. They believe it stands for Muhammad, the faith’s founder and prophet, who was a cat fan. When you spend some time with cats its easy to see why they have been so loved for so many millennia by so many people.

About the Author:

Filed under Cats by richard hanley

Permalink Print

Get Inexpensive Cat Materials On The Web

by Ian Hafiz

These days, cat sources are gaining recognition mainly because on the attention among folks about these things. Cat resources are also developing in trend and reputation simply because from the truth that these materials are crucial in case you wish to construct wholesome surroundings.

Nevertheless, there’s some issue for numerous individuals whilst buying these materials. They don’t know from wherever they might get these sources at inexpensive rates. In this short article I will highlight some points that may aid you in obtaining low-cost products for the pet.

1 from the greatest techniques to obtain high quality and low-cost merchandise may be the comparison among costs. This is usually accomplished very easily using the assist of some surveys. You possibly can simply go for the nearby retailers which are present inside your locality. So prior to determining the last acquire you possibly can simply go via the cost of different things presented.

Even so, when you don’t discover any shop about you then you are able to also search and look at several goods on the net. Bear in mind you will discover numerous on-line shops that might be regarded very easily. Some critiques also inform that on the internet obtain is comparatively much less pricey. Nonetheless, what I believe is that it all depends for the type of company.

Some company provides low-cost products and solutions due to the fact they offer their things in bulk. About the other hand people who are running person companies and giving essential and demanded solutions to their consumers might charge additional. On the other hand, it’s a accurate and accepted truth that on the internet pay for offers you additional freedom of option. You are able to simply think about 1 object right after other and you possibly can also evaluate different rates freely and confidently.

Right here I also prefer to mention some crucial points whilst buying something on the net. On-line acquire isn’t that significantly simple since it appears. It’s constantly required that you simply need to offer with trustworthy and dependable shops. Make certain of all of the agreements and shipping types they provide for the consumers. Furthermore, time can also be extremely critical. You must very carefully look at the time by which your object is going to be delivered to you.

About the Author:

Filed under Cats by Syahrul Idris

Permalink Print

March 3, 2010

Identifying The Best Kitty Litter Container

by Frank Froggatt

In case you are considering bringing home a pussy cat, you truly need to take the time to understand just what your kitty is going to need to cause it to feel relaxed and secure.

Seeing that these kinds of house animals aren’t yet litter box trained, you will need to get yourself a litter container to coach the kitten on where to go in the event that nature calls. Ensuring that this is achieved is going to make sure that you are not likely to have to clean up numerous incidents on the floor.

In order to get your cat trained properly it is important to pick out the right cat litter box. This depends on the size of the cat and if the pet finds it spacious inside. Since the cat litter box is the toilet for the pet, this should be easily accessible both for going in and out of the box.

It is a simple matter to pick up a litter box that can be cleaned by hand regularly. These manually cleaning chatterboxes can be found in most stores like Wal-Mart or Fred Meyer, or any such store that carries pet supplies. The price depends on the kind of material that is used in making the box- whether it is plastic or another kind of non-absorbent material.

If the individual is too lazy to clean it, there is an electronic version that will cost more than a hundred dollars. If you don’t like the idea of either of these, you can pick up a disposable type i.e. a soda box, which is also v have to be changed regularly.

You are going to have to get cat litter for the box so that you’ll be easy to clean. This is needed to prevent odors from staying inside the box that can produce bacteria causing the cat to get sick.

In order for the cat to have some privacy, it is best to choose a litter box that can have a cover on top. This will make it warm and comfortable for the cat when it is time to go to the toilet.

There are many types of litter boxes available from the small versions for the kittens to the big ones for the full grown cats. With all of the different types of cat litters on the market, you are going to have to choose one that your pet is not sensitive to.

If you are having a hard time picking out the right cat litter box, you can always ask a sales associate at a pet store or a friend who might have a cat as a pet.

About the Author:

Filed under Cats by Frank Foreman

Permalink Print

February 27, 2010

Non Toxic Mange Treatment

by Wendell Ruben

It is wise to determine what kind of mange your pet has; demodectic mange or sarcoptic mange before you decide on a mange treatment. Another factor when deciding on a mange treatment depends on how severe your pets mange symptoms are. Beware… There are many mange home remedies on the internet, there are also traditional very toxic mange dips and oral medications such as ivermectin and there are also very effective topical non toxic mange treatments.

Finding a good Mange Treatment for Demodectic Mange and Sarcoptic Mange is basically a two step process. You treat the infection if it is present and your treatment should kill the mange mites that are causing your pet to itch and tear its skin. This can be a pretty daunting task if you don’t know how to accomplish this task easily and quickly.

Demodectic Mange is much harder to treat than Sarcoptic Mange because infection is usually present. Symptoms of infection consist of red inflammed skin and your pet has a foul smell. If it has a septic smell, chances are your pet has infection. Infection usually follows a mange mite infestation because the mange mites are burrowed deep into the hair follicles. The feces and body parts from the mites is what causes the infection.

Finding an effective Mange Treatment for Demodectic Mange is critical when your pet has infection going on. You want to stop the infection as quickly as possible because if bad enough, the infection could get into your pets blood stream and your pet would then have to be treated orally with antibiotics. Treating your pet topically has proven to be highly effective if treated with non toxic products and medicated body washes that primarily heals the skin.

The trick to a good and effective mange treatment is finding one that is a non toxic topical product. You don’t have to make your pet sicker by applying toxic dips or giving him oral toxic medications such as ivermectin. Why treat the entire pet when you only have to treat him topically? Why bring his immune system down? These toxic dips and oral products reduces your pets immune system even more and it can’t fight bacl. Your pets immune system is usually shot by this time and it is already compromised; that’s why it can’t fight back the mites. So why make it worse?

Finding a mange treatment for Sarcoptic mange is pretty easy. The mange treatment usually lasts about 2 weeks, while treating mange for demodectic mange can last months. Understand that Demodectic Mange is inherited by your pets mother. This type of mange is an offset of your pets weak immune system and the mites burrow deep down into the hair follicle. This causes the mites feces and body parts to create an allergic reaction called inflammation.

Whether you are treating for Demodectic or Sarcoptic Mange, your pets Mange treatment should continue several weeks after symptoms stop and you begin seeing the hair growing back. I also recommend putting your pet on a good vitamin to boost it’s immune system.

It is always recommended that you keep your pet that is infested with mange mites to keep them isolated from the other pets. Wash its bedding daily and never allow your pet to sleep with you; or you’ll be scratching too! Mange mites are highly contagious to other pets and your family too.

About the Author:

Filed under Cats by Wendell Ruben

Permalink Print

February 23, 2010

Comparing Kitties And Dogs In Urban Apartments

by Brandon Hogan

A city apartment might not appear to be a good place to have a pet, as they are oftentimes extremely small without much space. Having one more living thing in our places of residence could just add to all the clutter.

It is a fact, though, that having a pet live with us will bring us entertainment, companionship and joy, among other things. That is definitely the reason that there are so many people living in city apartments with pets.

You will see that one animal is going to be called more suitable to be in a city apartment than others are; it all depends on exactly which pets people tend to like more. Let me be objective about the situation and talk about both the pros and cons of each animal in that setting.

First, let’s take a look at dogs. On the plus side, they’ll be extremely loyal and generally more active than cats are. Dogs will likely follow you often, while cats tend to do the opposite.

A dog might not be the best choice if you are a busy person without much time to give them attention. On the contrary, someone is going to appreciate this about dogs if they really like having the companionship of a friend who is always there for them.

Cats, on the other hand, will usually stay on their own, needing a bit less attention than dogs do. They’ll still come around and cuddle with you, but they’re generally known to be lower maintenance.

As far as activity goes, dogs will need to go outside several times per day. If you like the idea of getting outside for some fresh air, you’ll enjoy the experience of walking a dog.

On the other hand, there are many indoor cats that don’t need to go outside at all. With the simple use of a litter box, you’ll have everything handled from the comfort of your own home.

Well, it might seem like having a cat in the city is easier than having a dog. Nevertheless, so many folks just can’t get around the love they have for dogs.

About the Author:

Filed under Cats by Brandon Hogan

Permalink Print

February 22, 2010

Training Kittens Properly

by Greg E. Johnson

Cats have a tendency to give off an image of camaraderie and aloofness all in one. However, they are extremely sociable animals, so you should not let that aloofness part scare you away. When a cat is well trained by a human friend, they can form some relationships that are very successful with you and your family. If you properly train your cat, they may even become good friends with the other pets around your house. Did you know that a cat that is well trained will not have as many social problems as a cat that is not well trained? Within this article, we are going to give you information about training kittens as far as what to do.

To train your kitten properly, it’s important to avoid the rough scolding punishments in order to make sure that they are not going to be scared for life. Everyone has heard of spanking. Well, spanking is not the right thing to do to your kitten, which means you need to make sure you find another form of punishment.

Performing the wrong type of discipline can get you and your kitten’s relationship off to a bad start. That’s something you don’t want to do if you plan to teach the kitten the right way to do things.

Training your kitten when they are still little can make training them a lot easier than waiting until they are a full grown cat. This is because they are not set in their ways when they are still a kitten. They are merely in the new stage so this makes them easy to train. The training will be more open, because when you are young all you want to do is learn.

You must show your kitten where he or she needs to do their business after you bring your kitten home. Your kitten must potty in a place that she can remember and get to easily. You must use good litter and a great litter box. Always try to keep that area clean. The litter box is something that kittens automatically know how to use. This is a natural instinct that kittens learn when they are young. Choosing the correct type of litter can be instrumental in keeping your kitten healthy as he or she matures.

When cats are bored, they are known to become destructive and overly active. It is important to play with them each and everyday. When cats feel as if they are neglected, they will stop using the litter box. You should have regular sessions of playtime and give them attention. Sometimes, those litter box problems could go away overnight.

You should give your kitten a reward whenever he or she exhibits the proper behavior just as you would a dog. The reward can include gently stroking them, whispering to them, or even treats. You can go to your local pet store and find many cat treats available for sale. But you should not overdo these treats and always try to buy ones that are healthy.

In order to make that cat learn everything the right way, you will need to catch your cat when they are in the act. Cats do not like water. So one way to make cats see that something is bad behavior would be to use a spray bottle and squirt just a tiny amount of water at them. Another method you could use is a whistle or something that makes a loud noise because cats do not like noises that are loud.

When you have a kitten, apart from training, you should make sure you spend time with him or her each day. As you are spending time together, your little one is going to get fond of you and will learn that you are their friend. When your cat is doing something that is not acceptable in your case, then you should let them know this. You should do this by correcting that behavior and showing them what is the right way. Keep in mind that cats are known for having attention spans that are short.

To build a training relationship with your cat, it is very important that they like you and look at you as a friend. The simple task of training them will not be hard to do as long as you follow the basic guidelines of training kittens. Training a kitten can be easy if you teach them the tone of your voice when you are telling them whether they did or did not do a good job. Pay attention to your pet at all times as kittens are known for getting into trouble. Also you should remember to not only train your kitten, but pay attention to the health of your kitten.

About the Author:

Filed under Cats by Greg E. Johnson

Permalink Print
Made with WordPress and an easy to customize WordPress theme • Myrna's List skin by Myrna Weinreich