Cats With Gingivitis - Two Natural Ways to Resolve it

Cats with gingivitis seem to be so common now. And yet, cats can't suffer from it in the wild, as they would quickly die. So we need to look in this direction for the cure.

catscram

Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gums and this can occur at any age in any breed. Not only is this a painful problem, it shows that the health of your cat is not good.

CATS

It also means that the teeth may becomes affected later. Perhaps loosen, and then fall out.

However, with the two following measures, you can prevent gingivitis in cats or restore balance if it has already occurred.

The first aspect any natural health professional will always try to address is to restore a healthy immune system. With this back in balance, everything slips back into natural order.

One of the main causes of cats with gingivitis is diet. Diet is critical to everyone's health, not just your cats. Human diet can be shoddy at the best of times, but at least there are some, pretty basic laws, which govern the manufacturing and marketing of human food.

This is absent in cat food. Anything can, and does, occur. Such as:

preservatives that are highly toxic, despite the claims on the packet high fat content, unusable in human food low grade meat by-products (rejects for human consumption, with questionable protein content) cheap filler such as melamine, sugar or crushed nutshells

Please don't think that the processed food recommended by your veterinarian is any better.

Quality raw meat and bones, on the other hand, provide a cat with complete and balanced nutrition. Crunching up on small raw bones keep the teeth clean, the gums healthy and their minds happy. Dry food doesn't come close to achieving this, despite the claims.

Cats on this diet rarely suffer from gingivitis.

In the interim, between changing over to a quality raw diet, the cat may still need some help with the gingivitis. The homeopathic medicine Mercurius can be used successfully in restoring healthy gums when the cat's symptoms include"

gums are red and swollen the mouth appears dirty there is excess salivation ulceration may or may not be present symptoms are worse at night

Cats With Gingivitis - Two Natural Ways to Resolve it

Do you want to learn more about natural good health, in particular diet and homeopathy? Download my free report 'Better Health for Cats' by clicking on the website link below. Naturally Healthy Cats - http://naturallyhealthycats.com Madeleine Innocent is a full time consultant homeopath and homeopathic coach.

CATS

Persian Cats - Health Issues

Persian Cats are by far and away the most popular breed, but there are some very common health problems and a few special nutritional needs required for this magnificent cat.

cats and dogs

The breeding habits of some non reputable breeders have made several of these health problems more common in both the Ultra Persian and the Traditional Persian; however, it seems that these issues may be more prevalent with the Ultra breeds.

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All health concerns and most problems will all start with the breeder. If you are very serious about getting this breed of cat, make absolutely sure you do as much background checking as you can on the breeder and get as many references as possible.

The Persian cat is perhaps the oldest breed of cat, dating back into the ancient days of Iran, when is what actually called Persia. This magnificent breed has a grace in the way they walk and majesty in their demeanor, but they are also quite lazy, which can lead to some health issues as such as obesity.

Because of their natural dense fur that can be up to 8 to 10 inches long in some cases, they are also slightly more prone to health issues.

But they are by no means unhealthy cats, but they do have some issues.

PDK: Polycystic Kidney Disease

The most common health issue in Persian Cats is referred to as PDK or polycystic kidney disease. This is an inherited disease and was first noticed in the late 1960's but there was not a lot of research on it until the 1990's.

This disease shows up between the ages of three years to ten years in Persians, and it will cause enlarged kidneys as well as kidney dysfunction. Cats that inherit this condition will be born with cysts and all of the problems develop when these cysts start to grow. As they grow and progressively enlarge, the kidney, because of this growth, is reduced in its ability to function properly.

The most serious of conditions will result in the failure of the kidneys and the death of your cat. The symptoms that your Persian has this condition will be a sudden lack of an appetite as well as an increased thirst and need to urinate.

There is currently no known treatment for this disease other than treatments similar to other forms of chronic kidney failure. Because it is only recently understood, there is still a lot of research to be done to devise effective treatments.

Tear Duct Overflow:

This condition can occur in any cat, but is more prevalent in Persians because of the flat features. These features may result in the failure of the tears to drain away properly. Compounding this issue is overproduction of tears which could be caused by infections, allergies, or some form of an irritant.

The natural form of a Persians face also makes drainage a problem due to wrinkling of the drainage ducts, abnormally small tear duct openings, and shallow tear lakes on the inner corners of their eyes. This is believed to be a chronic condition in Ultras because of breeding techniques.

The symptoms that you need to watch for will be a watery discharge in the eyes, tear staining below the eye, or ulcerations as well as obvious irritations to your pet on the skin below the eyes.

Effective treatments for tear duct overflow can include antibiotic ointments and it will be very important to keep the areas around the eyes clean to prevent infections. Trimming the hair beneath the eyes very carefully will also help the drainage. But be very careful.

There are some natural herbal ingredients such as Dandelion and German Chamomile that are natural eye cleaners and are very tonic in nature and quite soothing for your cat. In very serious cases, your cat may require surgery.

Chediak-Higashi Syndrome:

This condition is also one of the more common health concerns in Persians. It is an autosomal recessive genetic disorder that basically causes your pets hair to turn a smoky blue color. But what is especially dangerous about this condition is the development of nuclear cataracts that are associated with it. These infections can cause a prolonged bleeding in your cat.

Persians affected by this condition are also very prone to infections. There is no known treatment for this condition. Symptoms that you will have to watch for are muscle weakness, nerve problems in the legs, tremors, as well as numbness. In very severe cases there will be seizures, most likely followed by your cat passing, as it can be that serious.

Congenital Ankyloblepharon:

This condition is especially prevalent in Blue Persians. This is a situation where adhesion of the eyelids margin, or stick to each other. This is very common in both puppies and kittens, but very uncommon in adult cats. If this persists, it can result in swelling and infections as well as several serious eye conditions.

A warm, wet cotton ball will usually free the eyelids, but if not, immediate care may be needed.

Urinary Tract Stones:

All cats can have this condition, but it is much more prevalent in Persians. These are small stones that are found within the bladder, and in most cases they are passed with urine. If they puss up and are not passed, it becomes an emergency situation, as it blocks the urinary tract.

Symptoms will be abnormal urine patterns, as well as difficulty urinating or frequent urination. You will also need to watch for cloudy urine, or blood in the urine. These stones are made up primarily of magnesium, ammonium and phosphate.

A low magnesium diet will help to eliminate these stones in most cases.
Hip dysplasia and well as patellar luxation, a condition in which your cat's knee caps slides, are also known health conditions in Persian cats.

Summary:

These are all health concerns that you need to be aware of when selecting a Persian, but with the correct breeder most can be averted. These cats will also need some special treatments for there gorgeous hair coatings.

You should always look for hair supplements that have all of the B vitamins, as well as zinc and fatty acids to bring out the brilliance of their coats.

The cats are perhaps the most gentle and docile of all the cat breeds. It is recommended to keep them indoors to keep their fur free of parasites as well. Overall, they make wonderful and very affectionate companions, despite some health concerns.

Persian Cats - Health Issues

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

CATS

Savanna Cats

Savanna Cats are the result of breeding of an African Serval wild cat with a domestic cat. This produces a large, tall and slim, wild looking cat with a playful personality and dog-like loyalty.

cat's claw

Charecteristics

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Savannah Cats are one of the larger breeds of domestic cats. The markings of the coat tend to be that of an exotic looking spotted tabby. The face of Savannah cats have a tear-stain marking from the inner point of the eye downward. The tall, erect ears have ocelli, a central light band bordered by black, dark grey or brown. The tail is short with black rings and a black tip. The eyes may be green, brown, or gold and are slightly hooded. Early generations were known for a light coat and dark spots. Today the breed standard identifies four color variations:

Brown spotted tabby, shades of brown coat with dark spots Silver spotted tabby, silver coat with black or dark gray spots Black, black with black spots Black smoke, black tipped silver with black spots.
Temperament

Savannah Cats are playful and social, interested in dogs and children. They possess a dog-like loyalty and will follow their owners around the house and can also be trained to walk with a leash. They frequently greet people with head-butts or an unexpected pounce. Savannah Cats are known for their ability to jump from a standing position as high as eight feet to the tops of refrigerators and high cabinets. They have no fear of water, in fact, they may play in it.

History

In 1986, Judee Frank crossbred an African Serval with a domestic cat producing the first Savannah. In 1989 Patrick Kelly purchased one of Franks kittens and started pursuing other cat breeders in an attempt to develop this new breed. Finally Kelly convinced Joyce Sroufe to join him in founding the Savannah Cats breed and in 1996, they wrote the original version of the breed standard.

Early generations of Savannah Cats weighed from 10 - 25 lbs, while some breeders report Savannahs weighing in at 30 lbs. More recent generations are usually between 8 - 17 lbs. It was relatively common in the early generations for these cats to chirp and hiss, like their wildcat fathers, and meow, like their domestic mothers. The wildcat hissing sounds like a very loud snake hiss. However you don't hear the chirping and wildcat hissing as often in recent generations.

Some breeders recommended a diet which includes raw feeding of 32% protein and no grains or by-products. Otherwise, care and grooming of Savannah Cats ought to be kept up as with any other housecat; good nutrition, regular play and veterinary visits.

Savanna Cats

For more information on the care and feeding of our favorite furry pets, visit: lovefatcats.com [http://lovefatcats.com/]

lovefatcats.com

CATS

How to Cure Bad Breath in Your Cat

Does your cat suffer from bad breath (also known as 'feline halitosis')? If so, you know how uncomfortable it can be when friends who visit are repelled by your cat's breath. Even more important than the social implications, however, is the fact that feline halitosis can be an indication that your cat may be suffering from some dental or digestive disorders.

Any changes in your cat's diet can create digestive problems for your cat, so this should be the first consideration. If you've modified your cat's diet, a change back to its original dietary regimen may resolve the problem.

RAGDOLL CATS

If your cat's diet has not changed, the next step would be to check inside your cat's mouth. Bad breath is most often caused by the uncontrolled growth of bacteria in the mouth. This is true for humans as well as for our canine and feline companions. When we chew our food, bacteria in the mouth break down the proteins in our food, and this in turn causes sulfur and other chemicals to be released into the air through our breath. Ordinarily, it's the smell of the sulfur that is so offensive.

So where does this excessive bacteria come from? It is generally the direct result of poor oral hygiene, resulting in the growth of plaque and tartar on the teeth. This can be as much of a problem for cats as it is for humans.

When your cat's bad breath is rooted in its dental hygiene, look for those cat foods and special treats that contain enzymes whose purpose is to prevent the buildup of tartar on your cat's teeth. You can also have your cat's teeth cleaned professionally by your veterinarian, but this strategy provides only a short-term solution. To prevent the problem from recurring, you will need to make some modifications to its diet. Your vet may suggest other approaches as well, such as prescribing an antibacterial mouth spray to prevent the onset of gingivitis (gum disease).

A more proactive approach would be to periodically brush your cat's teeth. There are special toothpastes and brushes made for this purpose, including electric tooth brushes, which are the most effective in preventing the buildup of tartar. If possible, this would be a good habit to develop while your cat is still young.

The best time to clean your cat's teeth is shortly, but not immediately, after a meal. Wait for about half an hour or so after the meal so that your cat does not associate mealtime with having its teeth brushed. Such an association would create some anxiety around eating, and possibly cause it to not eat properly or to develop digestive problems.

If your cat's halitosis does not stem from either a change in diet or from a buildup of tartar and/or plaque on the teeth, then the problem may in fact be much more deeply rooted. There may be a more serious dental issue such as a tumor, an abscess, or other types of dental disease. Feline halitosis can also be a symptom of other non-dental diseases, such as kidney or liver disease, lung cancer, or feline leukemia. Your vet can help you make these determinations and provide you with the best course of action. Exhibiting bad breath is no more normal for a cat than it is for a human, so it's imperative to take appropriate action if your cat suffers from this problem.

How to Cure Bad Breath in Your Cat

For more information and articles on how to keep your cat happy and healthy, visit http://www.healthy-cat-supplies.com

Kat Bartone is a writer, musician, computer technology teacher, internet marketer, and blogging enthusiast. She lives in Massachusetts with her cat Zoe.

RAGDOLL CATS

The Purrfect Pet - RagDoll Cats and Kittens

The RagDoll Cat breed came about from the offspring of a semi-feral white Persian female whom was injured when hit by a car and bred to a male Birman Cat. The controversy is that the "breed" relaxes completely when picked up or held. The resulting floppy "RagDoll" appearance gives the breed its name. Some believe that this trait was passed on from the injured female, whom may have suffered nerve damage, others disagree stating that it is not genetically possible. Little is known as to why these felines are unique in so many ways.

The RagDoll is similar in appearance to the Birman, except for the heavier body build and lack of tell tale white "gloves". Varieties include the Bicolor RagDoll, with a pale body, dark markings on the mask, ears, and tails (seal, chocolate, blue or lilac), and a white underside. Points refers to points of their features such as ears, nose, paws and tail. Colorpoints have points in the same colors and Mitted RagDolls are the same as Colorpoint but with white front paws. Colors include chocolate, seal with varying shades of brown, blue (which is shades of grey) and lilac which is more a rosy shade of beige. Some can be cream, blue/cream or flame (cream that is more reddish). The rare Mink RagDolls have their coloring at birth, whereas the others are usually born white

RAGDOLL CATS

The cats fur is full and long, plush, but is not as long as many of the long haired breeds. They do not have an undercoat which makes for less shedding as well as easy maintenance and grooming. Their bodies are long and solid, although they go limp when picked up. They have medium legs, large round paws, and a long, medium tail. The head is a rounded wedge shape with a medium nose, fully developed cheeks, and small, round, mostly blue eyes, although green, green/blue and aqua are common in the mink RagDolls and the straight colored RagDolls can often have nonmatching eye colors. Ears are medium, rounded at the tips and tufted. These are large cats, with males often exceeding 20 plus pounds.

These Cats have an extremely docile temperament, slow to mature and don't reach full maturity until 3 to 4 years of age. Perhaps that is why they remain quite playful well beyond the kitten stages. They are "lovers", not fighters and very trusting of others that they may not recognize danger. Best suited to the indoors, the RagDoll has an extremely high tolerance to pain so that injuries can go unnoticed. These big fluffy cats are calm and like tranquility. They also like dogs, particularly large dogs. They get along well with other household pets and make wonderful pets for children. They are often described as the "puppy cat" in that they will follow one around much like a puppy. They are also very trainable.

RagDolls are big, sweet tempered, family oriented cats, making them the purrfect pet for many homes.

The Purrfect Pet - RagDoll Cats and Kittens

Cats "pawsitively" have enriched my life. Owning an Equestrian Center allows me to have more cats than what would be the norm for homes, as I claim some are "working barn cats", giving me the excuse to take a few more in and keeping the many that are "drop offs". However, as responsible pet owners we should strive to learn as much about the animals whom well being and lives are dependent on us. Please click on the links to my sites if you are looking for more information on the adorable RagDolls or seeking everyday general cat and kitten information such as care, training, health and behavioral problems and cat facts in general.

RAGDOLL CATS

For Ragdoll Cat Lovers - Ragdoll Cat Personality

The ragdoll cat personality is often what attracts cat owners to the breed. On the outside the ragdoll is large, medium haired, beautifully coloured, blue eyed breed of cat. Inwardly, they exhibit strange personality traits that set them aside from many other breeds of cat. While there are many myths and generalizations surrounding the good nature of this exotic breed, more often than not the myths are founded in truths.

The ragdoll cat personality is one generalized as being a cautious mix of intelligence and a gentle, trusting nature. While many ragdoll cats can be attributed to these personality traits, there are many more who deviate from the norm. It would be too general to say that all ragdoll cats are intelligent, just as in any breed there is diversity, and there is obviously the force of nurture to take into consideration.

RAGDOLL CATS

Certainly the standard ragdoll cat is a gentle, kindly creature, which would much rather spend time with you and those in your family, then go roaming out and about. Then again, ragdoll's are rarely given the opportunity to be roamers - they are frequently and rightly kept as indoor cats, being far too trusting and lacking the street smarts of other outdoor cat breeds.

They tend to be laid back and far too passive for the outside world, their lack of violent tendencies often mean they are unlikely to fight back, even if threatened, causing no end of scrapes and problems in the outside world.

The myths tell us the ragdoll was named as such due to their tendency to flop while being held in your arms, but they are not alone in this, many other cats if they trust you will go limp when you hold them. Perhaps then the ragdoll is simply more trusting and flops when they barely know you at all; this trusting nature is often seen as a very attractive quality in the ragdolls.

Ragdolls love people, they love other cats, they love other pets and stranger even, they appear to love water. A ragdoll will happily play in running water for hours, apparently fascinated by the wetness of it! They have even been known to attempt to join their owners in the bath or shower, setting them aside from most other cat breeds, traditionally known as water haters. For this reason, outside the ragdoll can easily end up drowning, they must be kept away from ponds, swimming pools and other large bodies of water, even if supervised.

Ragdoll cats will happily spend days curled up on you lap, purring, meowing to you, they are not known for their independence, unlike many other breeds, you will find the ragdoll to exhibit co-dependence, a good thing for some owners, a markedly annoying trait for others, but however you view being followed around all day, be prepared to step on a few tails several times a day, you might not even realize they are stood right behind you.

But despite all the hype regarding their 'laid back' nature, and the ability to adapt to living with almost any animal, remember, just like us, each cat is different, and will exhibit different traits, don't just assume that the ragdoll cats personality will be the 'typical' or standardized one, prepare for individual differences and you wont be disappointed.

For Ragdoll Cat Lovers - Ragdoll Cat Personality

David Jameson is a Ragdoll Cat enthusiast, helping people to learn how to live with Ragdoll Cats.

Find out more information For Ragdoll Cats Owners at http://MyRagdollCat.com.

Please, visit the site's Recommended Reading section special for people interested in Ragdoll Cats.

RAGDOLL CATS

Cat Breeds - Choosing The Best Breed

Which types of cats are right for you and your family? There is a large number of different cat breeds that one can choose from. Many of these breeds can easily adapt to home living, and make excellent pets for you and your children. So how do I find the best breed that is appropriate for me? Here is an excellent list of tips that you can use before making your final decision.

Quiet Or Noisy Cats

RAGDOLL CATS

Some cat breeds can be very loud and noisy. You will want to consider this when choosing your pet cat. You and your family will need to determine if you can handle a vocal type of cat within your home, or would a quiet cat be more enjoyable. A number of cat owners don't usually have any issues with a more vocal cat, although if you live in an apartment, then you might have to reconsider choosing a loud cat. Some of the more loud or vocal types of cats include: the Korat, Siamese Cats, or the Burmese. If you are in the market for a quiet cat, then the following breeds may be more to your liking: Scottish Fold, Somali, or the American Curl.

Cuddly Or Playful

The next decision that you will want to make is to determine whether you want a cat that is more of an aloof breed or one that is more affectionate and cuddly. Some of the considerations to keep in mind are the amount of free time that you can spare. If you have a lot of available time then a cuddly cat who craves attention may be a great choice. Affectionate cuddly cats are also a great choice for those with children.

Friendliest Cat Breeds:

Maine Coon

Snowshoe

Abyssinian

Ragdoll

Tonkinese

Himalayan Persian

Less Sociable Breeds

Nebelung

Russian Shorthair

Norwegian Forest

If you are looking for a cat breed that will not get into constant mischief, and ones that can amuse themselves, then the following breeds may be a bad choice:

Siamese

Rex

Sphynx

Balinese

British Angora

These cats have a lot of energy and can be very inquisitive. These breeds are an excellent choice for someone who has a lot of free time and is home-bound. They can be a great source of entertainment; in fact the Rex can be enjoyable and silly to watch as he attempts to amuse those around him.

Other Important Features

There are also other important features that you want to look at in addition to the right temperament of the cat. An important feature to consider when choosing the right cat is whether you want a long haired or short haired breed. This is especially important to those owners who do not have a great deal of time to devote to a pet. These owners may want to opt for a short haired breed. The attraction of a fuzzy ball of fluff may look great, but grooming adult long haired cats can be very time consuming. A cat's coat of hair can tangle and matt up right down to its skin at an alarming rate if you do not provide proper grooming. If this should happen, your only choice is to have him completely shaved, which can be very traumatic. Your cat would need to be sedated, and this could pose some potential health risks.

Making The Final Choice

Having looked at the many different cat breeds and their unique features, you are now able to begin selecting your new cat. You should first ask yourself a few questions such as: should I get a baby kitten, or start with a feline that is somewhat older or even one that has been abandoned.

There are many new kittens available at various cat shows, and you might want to check out your local listings. There will more than likely be a number of cat exhibitors who are looking at selling some of their kitten litter. A great place to find an older feline would be at the humane society, or possibly the animal shelter in your town.

Cat Breeds - Choosing The Best Breed

Susan Richards is the creater of http://www.onlinecatcare.com You can find a wealth of information pertaining to a variety of cat related items. Read comprehensive articles on a number of cat care needs from cat health to behavior training, cat breeds and more.

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Frontline For Cats

Scientifically Formulated

cats and dogs

Frontline for cats is specially designed to work with the oils on your cats skin, which are always being released. The problem with many over the counter products is that while they kill fleas, they don't kill flea eggs, nor do they remain on the skin long enough to kill any fleas that jump on the cat an hour after you treat them. Frontline for cats is designed to last a full 30 days after you treat them and will also kill flea eggs, larvae, along with the often resilient ticks that are so hard to kill.

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The problem with other treatments is they use a variety of pesticides that were very effective at obliterating fleas and ticks 50 years ago, but are no longer effective for anything more than short-term relief for your cat. Also keep in mind that many of these age old pesticides can cause seizures in your cat if they're abused (cat owners often overuse them because fleas and ticks quickly reappear after these products are applied).

Modern Science

Frontline for cats uses Fipronil and Methoprine for effective flea and tick destruction. Fipronil kills adult fleas and ticks that are on your pet, or which come in contact with your cat's skin and fur. Methoprine interrupts the life-cycle of flea and tick eggs, so they die a day after hatching or never hatch at all. All laboratory tests have shown that most fleas will be dead within 12 hours of application, while all adult fleas and ticks will be typically dead after 18 hours.

Proven Effectiveness

The best thing about using this product is the raving reviews it gets. You don't need to rely on a scientist opinion, or speculation, since real people all over use it and are immediately amazed at the fact that Frontline for cats and dogs both actually work 100% guaranteed. A simple drop of the treatment will literally kill every single flea in your home, while it's recommended you continue the treatment for at least 3 - 4 months to make absolute sure their all gone.

Frontline For Cats

Find out more on frontline for cats and read many interesting articles on pet health.

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Why Cats Make Better Pets

Are you a dog owner? Are you amongst those who think that dogs are better pet than cats? For all dog lovers and owners who think that dogs should be preferred as pets against cats, I would like you all to reconsider this statement. Accept the reality with a bold heart that cats are anytime better pets than dogs.

catskill craftsmen

Few of reasons in support that cats are better pet than dogs are listed below:

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o Cats would always respect your personal space and would expect same from you whereas, imagine a pet dog at home that jumps around all the time. Dogs tend to overdo it and tend to irritate you.

o Another benefit of keeping a cat as a pet is that you do not need to take her out every day for a walk. Cat would go out on itself and gets relieved. But if you have a dog as a pet, you would be required to take him out for a walk every day, even if you had a tiring day or are busy with some work. Dogs are dependent on the owner and you have to take out some time every day for them for their daily needs even if it's raining or too cold outside.

o You can leave a pet cat all alone for long hours without worrying about her needs which is little impossible when you keep dog as your pet. You are required to make special arrangements for your pet dog before you go out for long.

o Cat foods are less costly and reasonable than dog food which is another added advantage of keeping a pet cat.

o Cat's purring is definitely gentle than dog's barking, which can be very annoying and disturbing.

o The body odors of dogs are bad as compared to cats which smell better than them.

o You will not find a pet cat creating chaos or land up in a chaos. A cat keeps itself clean as compared to dog that keeps rolling up in dirt and mud.

o The best of keeping a pet cat is that it never relieves itself on a carpet or sofa. Cats have an in built scene towards such manners as compared to dogs, which needs to be taken out daily for such activities.

I can keep on listing more and more benefits of being a cat owner than a dog owner. But I sincerely believe that above mentioned points would definitely help you make a better choice and make you opt a cat as your pet rather than a dog, next time you plan to keep a pet at home.

Why Cats Make Better Pets

Prashant T Verma is working as a Technical writer in one of the reputed I.T. companies. He has total 3 years of an experience in writing and has written articles on many different topics. Please visit http://www.prashant-t-verma.blogspot.com and http://www.articlefeeder.blogspot.com/ to find articles on different topics.

CATS

Cleopatra and Cats

History reminds us that cats were distinguished house (castle) pets in the days of Cleopatra, the renowned ruler of Egypt. The cute kitties apparently had full access to the living quarters, and, for some obvious reasons, one can have a mental picture of what it was like to deal with these noble creatures: cats climbing up the curtains, cats scratching Caesar's brand new chair, kittens defecating under the ruler's favorite couch, endless meowing and of course the aggressive feline that leaves you with a sensitive scrape. It would be difficult to imagine a scene unlike what a lot of cat of cat owners are dealing with on a daily basis.

cats 5000

Through the years, we have had a few cats; most of them were given to my family though we inherited a few stray specimens. Living on a small farm there always room for one more little mouth; it is hard not to like these hairy critters; after a short while they become like family members with all the rights and few obligations... I would even admit that I did not expect much out of cat`s behavior while I would be much more demanding toward the dog. Having been around cats for a long time, I would definitely describe them as intelligent but specially manipulative; they will show superficial allegiance when comes mealtime, they sneak in and out of the house and when caught they feign ignorance to the rules.

CATS

Lately I was a bit skeptical when I came across an article claiming to have the solutions dealing with every "cat problem"; I did not think you could train a cat to behave like a good doggie, forget about doing a little dance for the master; however I am told that effective pet training is based on understanding what goes on in the animal's mind. Upon these premises it is possible to teach a cat more than one would ever expect out of Cleopatra's favorite pet.

Cleopatra and Cats

[http://www.thefinefeline.com]

CATS

Cats With Liver Disease - The Symptoms and How To Prepare The Best Diet For Them

It is difficult to identify if a cat is suffering from liver disease because the signs and symptoms are difficult to spot. Showing non-specific symptoms, some might show decrease in appetite, weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, depression and jaundice. (Jaundice in cats can be seen by the yellow discoloration of the skin at the base of the ear, and the whites of the eyes.

While other cats pass off pasty looking stool and display inappropriate urination and defecation behavior, according to Dr. Richard Pitcairn, author of the "Complete Guide to the Natural Health for Dogs and Cats," Rodale Press. This happen because fatty liver disease causes the liver to be is weighed down by rapid fat accumulation and simply shut down.

RAGDOLL CATS

In some cases, Dr. Richard mentions that cat owners who use the free feeding method, and has more than one cat must be more vigilant. As it's more difficult to note if your cat is eating regularly, fatty liver disease can develop rapidly in a cat's body if he stops feeding for a week or two. This would be a serious case and immediate medical care would be needed.

Immediate medication treatment is necessary for the recovery of liver disease. The treatment would depends on the cause and may include antibiotics, coagulation treatment for bleeding disorder, intravenous fluid therapy, appetite stimulants, anti-emetics and diet management.

When preparing a diet plan for a cat with liver disease, note that he would require a high-quality protein diet in moderate amount, with most of the cat's caloric intake coming from non-protein sources. If you are preparing your own food, it is recommended that the diet be based around eggs, cottage cheese, rice and liver. Your cat may also need multivitamin supplement.

Commercial restorative foods for felines suffering from with liver disease include Hill's Feline L/D formula. Royal Canin has several different formulas for hepatic disease, and your veterinarian can help you decide which is best for your cat depending on its current condition. Small, easily digestible and frequent meals are generally recommended. Many experts also recommend organic foods because they are not exposed to chemicals, artificial colors or preservatives.

You might also want to ask your veterinarian if you should add digestive enzymes and S-adenyl-methionine supplement to your cat's diet. Remember that in order to support your cat's liver function; you will have to plan a proper suitable diet that is fresh, organic, with low and quality protein and certainly low fat.

Cats With Liver Disease - The Symptoms and How To Prepare The Best Diet For Them

Moses Wright is the webmaster of Feline Cat Diet. More helpful information on Commercial Cat Food and Special Medical Cat Diet can be found on his website. You are welcome to reprint this article if the content and live link are keep intact.

RAGDOLL CATS

Dangers of Toxoplasmosis in Cats

Toxoplasmosis in cats is found throughout the North American continent as well as most parts of the world, including Europe. It can affect any warm blooded animal, including humans, and can cause disease in most animals, but it is particularly dangerous to cats. Once your cat is infected, it can rapidly spread throughout their body and cause serious and life threatening damages. However, perhaps the largest danger with Toxoplasmosis infection is that it can be spread from your cat via their litter box to pregnant women as well as any human that has any type of an immune compromised condition.

cats the musical costumes

This infection is extremely dangerous and it is estimated that only sixty percent of all cats that are infected will survive it.

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What is it?

Toxoplasmosis in cats is an infection of a parasitic protozoa referred to as Toxoplasma gondii, or T. gondii. This parasite is found in two places; under-cooked or raw meat, as well as the in the feces of your cat. Although it is considered to be a very serious threat in cats, this is not where the real danger lies.

The real dangers lie with pregnant women, children, as well as adults with an immune compromised condition such as AIDS that may come into contact with infected cat feces. It has been estimated that over 30 percent of the cat population worldwide may be infected with this parasite.

How is it transmitted?

In fully understanding Toxoplasmosis in cats, it is extremely helpful for owners to understand how it transmitted. Although it can infect other animals, it has one primary host or target; your cat. Cats are the only animal where the infection can survive and be passed through the feces. Once you cat has become infected, the parasites reproductive form lives in your cats intestines. They then lay egg-like forms, referred to as oocysts, which are immature and exit your cat's body via their feces. These egg-like forms must survive in the environment for a period of one to five days before they actually become infective to humans.

However, there is another very interesting fact about this parasite; your cat can only pass it for ten to fourteen days after they are infected. After this time frame, they can no longer pass it into the environment. That is the good news. The bad news is that once it is in the environment, it can live literally for several years. However, that is just half of the bad news, as it is extremely resistant to most all form of disinfectants. While most major disinfectants are extremely effective in killing bacteria and parasites, this one is very difficult to kill.

these eggs-like forms are cast out, they are very easily ingested by other intermediate hosts including rodents, birds, as well as dogs, but they can also be ingested by humans. Once they are in these intermediate hosts, they travel to two points; the muscles as well as the brain. In most cases, dogs and humans are infected by eating raw or undercooked meat. However, if you accidently touch infected cat feces without protection, you can very easily become infected.

What it does to your cat:

Toxoplasmosis in cats does not have one specific disease or condition that it causes; instead there are several. In mild cases it may only cause a fever, a loss of appetite, or depression in your cat, but this will all depend on what part of your cat's body becomes infected. If the T. gondii migrates to your cat's eye, it can cause severe inflammation to develop. If it goes to your cats lungs, it can cause pneumonia. If it migrates to their heart, it can cause arrhythmia. However, this is only the beginning, as it can and does commonly migrate to your cats digestive tract or their nervous system.

If it attacks your cats' digestive system, it can cause severe diarrhea, vomiting, as well as severe abdominal pain. In rare cases, it can also cause jaundice to occur. If it migrates to your cat's nervous system, it is considered to be extremely dangerous as it can easily cause seizures, a very sudden paralysis, as well as the loss of several of your cat's muscular functions. To put in bluntly, toxoplasmosis in cats can be a very serious and life threatening set of diseases or conditions. If your cat has any type of a depressed or challenged immune system, they may not survive this attack.

and Treatments:

Toxoplasmosis in cats, as severe as it can be, is actually very easy for your veterinarian to diagnose. However, there are some other some very pertinent facts about this infection that are helpful. Once your cat does start to show you any of the symptoms, in most every case they are no longer passing any of the egg-like forms. Even if they were, it is perfectly safe to handle your cat. It is absolutely impossible for this infection to be passed from your cat to you unless you touch their infected feces. You cannot become infected in any other way.

In diagnosing Toxoplasmosis, your veterinarian will take a blood sample and run a test to measure the antibodies to the amounts of T. gondii in their blood. There was originally some speculation that you could determine if your cat was infected by examining their feces, but as gross as it sounds, there are almost also some type of parasite that can be found in their feces. Because of this, this is the only reliable method and it very effective.

Once it is diagnosed, there is an effective form of treatment, but here is where there is more bad news about Toxoplasmosis in cats. It is estimated that only about sixty percent of all cats that are treated will survive. If your cat has a weak or compromised immune system, their chances of surviving are guarded at best. The most commonly used method of treatment is with an antibiotic called clindamycin. There have been other drugs tested, but this has demonstrated to be the most effective.

Preventing infection:

Toxoplasmosis in cats can never fully be prevented, but it can be protected against in most cases. There is one side of the argument that suggests you should never feed your cat raw meat or bones, and although this is a fast growing trend, this is one risk that you cannot ignore. The other side suggests that your cat's stomach is very acidic and can easily destroy most parasites. That may be true with most bacteria and parasites, but this one is very different and only you can make this decision.

However, by no means should you allow your cat to roam and get into any type of garbage. Fresh raw meat prepared properly is one thing; spoiled raw meat is an entirely different subject.
If you are pregnant, as much as you love your cat, never, under any circumstance, clean their litter box. Have your friends, spouse, or even pay someone to clean it. Even if you are fully protected, risking your health or your unborn child is not worth the risk.

Summary:

Toxoplasmosis in cats is a very real and dangerous infection and it has only two modes of infection in people; raw meat and cat feces. If you do feed your cat a raw diet, are you placing them at a higher degree of risk? Only you can answer this question.

Dangers of Toxoplasmosis in Cats

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 Vitamns & Minerals for Humans & Pets
http://www.liquid-vitamins-minerals-humans-pets.com/

CATS

Tips For Introducing Two Cats

Adding a new member to your feline family is usually more exciting for you than your current cat. Even though they are solitary by nature, most cats eventually learn to accept or at least tolerate newcomers. Because they are very territorial, the way you go about introducing the new cat to your existing cat can mean the difference between success or "cat-astrophe."

catscram

The introduction process can take as little as 10-12 days for kittens and very young cats, to as long as 12 weeks for older cats. It all depends on each cat's personality. Be sure to give your "first" cat plenty of attention. This will help him feel secure that he is not in competition for your affection.

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Confine your new cat to a "safe" room until the introduction process is complete. This should be a small room, such as a bathroom or small bedroom that your current cat rarely visits. Furnish it with a bed, scratching post, food, water and litter box.

In the beginning, your first cat may hiss and yowl at the cat on the other side of the door. Just ignore him and walk away. Never punish him for vocalizing aggressively, it will only cause trouble between the two cats. Be sure to praise and pet your first cat when he acts calmly when near the new cat's room.

After a few days, take a rag or washcloth and rub it over your new cat as you pet and play with her. Use a different rag to do the same thing with your first cat. At feeding time, put each cat's scented rag under the other cat's bowl. This will help them associate the other cat's scent with something positive-food. Lots of little feedings each day will help them get used to the smell more quickly. Be sure to renew the scent on the rags each day.

Next, you can feed them in closer proximity. Keep your new cat in her "safe" room with the door firmly closed, and place each cat's dish on their side of the door. Be sure to feed them at the same time. Once they both eat with no growling or hissing, you can move to the next level of the introduction.

Close your first cat in a room he likes to frequent, making sure he has water, some favorite food and a litter box. Let your new cat out to explore the house. After a few hours, put her back in her room and let your first cat out. He will probably hiss and fuss when he smells another cat's scent in HIS territory. Again, be patient and praise him when he acts calmly. Repeat this activity at least once a day until both cats seem comfortable.

Before you let the cats have full access to one another, let them come face to face in a safe situation. Use two hard plastic doorstops to jam the door to the new cat's room open a mere 2-3 inches. Check that the door can't be pushed open any further, and that neither cat can get its head through the opening. The object is to give them a chance to swat paws at one another and even go nose to nose without the opportunity for full body contact. Feed each cat on their respective side of the door. Once they no longer hiss or growl at one another, you can try playing with both of them in the same room.

Tips For Introducing Two Cats

© 2005, Kathy Burns-Millyard. Kathy is a professionally published freelance writer and stock photographer who is currently involved in a fascinating adventure of living off the grid and working on the road as she travels around the southwestern United States.

CATS

Dysphagia in Cats

Dysphagia in cats can cause gagging, drooling, as well as regurgitation. It can also cause one of the most frightening sounds you will ever hear from your cat; coughing. However, if it becomes bad enough, it can cause your cats head, neck and mouth to become extremely painful. If it is severe, it may also lead to deformities in the head or the neck of your cat. This very dangerous condition comes in different forms; oral, pharyngeal, cricopharyngeal, which affects the end of your cat's pharynx, as well as neurological.

cats for sale

In most of the cases it can be treated, however, there may some instances where it cannot.

CATS

What is it?

Dysphagia in cats is best described as a condition where it has become very difficult for your pet to swallow. In some cases, it may be just a localized problem of some kind, but it can also be the first sign you see that your cat may have a very severe underlying illness. It is a situation that needs to be taken with a real sense of urgency, even if it first appears to be only a mild or temporary condition. The reason for this is quite obvious, until your cat is thoroughly examined, it can very easily place their life in jeopardy if it suddenly increases in severity.

In fact, in some cases, even once it is identified, you may have to assist your cat in eating properly or they may develop aspiration pneumonia. Aspiration pneumonia is an extremely serious condition on its own, as it may result in food being inhaled into your cat's lungs. There are numerous symptoms with dysphagia that will be able to see and identify.

Symptoms:

The first symptom of dysphagia in cats is usually drooling. Drooling is extremely uncommon in cats and is always a warning sign that there is something wrong with their mouth. However, this form of drooling will be even more uncommon, as it may also have blood in the drooling saliva. Gagging is the next potential sign that you will see, followed very quickly by your cat starting to drop food from their mouth. In some cases, the food may not actually drop, but instead it will start to collect on the sides of their mouth.

Any time you see any of these symptoms, your cat is having a very difficult time in swallowing. However, this is only the beginning of the signs, as the next set will start to surface. This will include regurgitation of their food as well as your cat suddenly demonstrating different chewing motions as they are trying to reduce the size of the food so they can swallow it. This will lead to the next symptom, coughing. Coughing is perhaps the worst sound you will ever hear from your cat, even if is slight, and it is a real warning sign that something is terribly wrong with them.

If the dysphagia is becoming severe, your cat will start to completely lose their appetite, and as a result, start to lose weight. Nasal discharge may start to occur next, as well as a very rapid and growing pain around their head, neck, as well as the mouth. If it is considered extreme, your cat will start to develop deformities in their head and neck, and if these signs appear, it may be too late for your cat.

Types and causes:

The most common form of dysphagia in cats is oral, and this may be the result of several different forms of dental disease, a paralysis in your cats jaw or their tongue, or something happening to their chewing muscles. This can be the result of a swelling that is occurring with these muscles or something much worse; they are wasting away. However, it may also be the result of some type of a trauma that has affected your cat's mouth, tongue, or another structure of their mouth. The trigeminal nerve is the main chewing nerve in your cat, and it can be affected by all of these potential underlying causes

The most common dental disease that triggers oral dysphagia include glossitis, which is inflammation of the tongue, gingivitis, inflammation of the gums, or stomatitis, which is the actual inflammation of the mouth itself. If your cat has oral dysphagia, they will begin to eat their food in an altered manner, and this will include tilting their head to one side as they eat, or something much more drastic; throwing their head backwards while they eat. If you see food beginning to become packed in their cheek folds, they have oral dysphagia.

Pharyngeal dysphagia in cats is quite different, as with this type they can easily grab their food, but they will have to make repeated efforts to swallow it. The telling signs of this form are when your cat flexes and extends their head and neck while eating in an attempt to swallow. This will cause two things to occur; excessive chewing and gagging. Your cat's food may also become lodged in their cheek folds, but in this type it will be coated with saliva. There is another warning sign with this form; snorting.

As your cat tries to swallow they will have a diminished gag reflex that will cause them to snort. The causes of this form of dysphagia may be from pharyngeal inflammation, some type of an abscess, or an enlargement of the lymph nodes behind their pharynx. It may also be the result of cancer.

Cricopharyngeal dysphagia in cats is yet another type, and this is entirely different than the first two forms. In this form, your cat may be able to swallow after several tries, but they will begin to gag. Once they gag, they will begin to cough to the extent that they will throw the food back up. However, unlike the pharyngeal dysphagia, this gag relax is considered to be normal. There is one very telling feature about cricopharyngeal dysphagia; your cat will become thin very quickly.

There is one of form or type of dysphagia that can attack your cat; neurological. If your cat has the neurological form it has two major causes; some type of a brain disorder or they have rabies. If they have either, you will have a very difficult decision to make as they have very little chance of surviving.

Summary:

The most critical factor with dysphagia in cats during the treatments will be to keep your cat properly nourished. This will include providing proper vitamins and mineral supplements to maintain their health as well as their weight. If they are on a feeding tube during the treatments, you will have to ensure that you feed them several small meals daily in an upright position. You will need to maintain this upright position to prevent aspiration pneumonia, which is a condition where food enters their lungs. If you do catch this potential devastating condition early, in most case it can successfully be treated.

Dysphagia in Cats

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/

CATS

The Joy of Cats

In the ongoing battle of cats versus dogs, pet owners continue to sing the praises of their animal of choice. While dogs are vastly considered to be the more family-friendly pet, cats have their own equally enthusiastic fan club that can easily rattle off the attributes of their feline in-residence. The truth is that cats - loyal, loving, and often misunderstood - are just as popular in the world of pets as their canine counterparts.

cat's claw

The history of cats goes back nearly 9,000 years to ancient civilizations. Always the skilled predators, cats were often relied upon to keep vermin at bay. But there is also speculation that cats were kept as house pets as early as 7,500 BC. We do know that ancient Egyptian civilizations revered cats - so much so that anyone convicted of killing a cat was put to death. Cats were often even mummified along with their owners.

CATS

Today's domesticated cats are beloved fixtures in many a home, a valued and loved member of the family. There are literally dozens of breeds of cats from which to choose - the personalities of each separate and distinct. Deciding which of these beautiful cats would best be suited to your home and family is largely dependent on the disposition of the cat in relation to your lifestyle. There are many breeds of cats that - in keeping with their species' tradition of independence - are completely ambivalent about human interaction. There are other breeds of cats, however, that enjoy and seek out the company of their human owners. The choice is ultimately dependent upon your own personality as it relates to pets.

Choosing to own cats means a dedication to being a responsible and caring owner; be sure to research the responsibilities of cat ownership including the nutritional needs of your cat, space considerations, and veterinary appointments.

Cats are wonderful pets and companions and having one in your home can be a joy for you and your family. Choose your cat wisely and prepare for an addition to your family.

The Joy of Cats

For easy to understand, in depth information about cats visit our ezGuide 2 Cats.

CATS

Buy Puppies and Kittens Through Pet Classifieds

Are you trying to find a puppy for sale? If yes, the best place to search is online. No need to be surprised. With the advent of the internet anything and everything can be bought online, even pet animals. The most striking feature is that here you are being provided with an opportunity to browse through the catalogs which would be categorized so that you can find the puppy of your choice within minutes. This is extremely helpful for dog owners as well dog breeders. People of both these categories would have various reasons for buying a puppy, but the love for dogs is a must.

Dogs have always been known for their loyalty towards their masters and have been considered as man's best friends. You may have come across people who insist that they want to buy a puppy of a particular breed. What is there in the dog breeds? Each dog breed has its own characteristics thus it is important to choose the puppy of that particular breed which has the features that would suit your requirements. Some of the most popular breeds are Labrador Retriever, Yorkshire Terrier, German Shepherd, Golden Retriever, Beagle, Boxer, Dachshund, Poodle, Shih Tzu, Bulldog etc. If you refer through the online pet classifieds you will be amazed to see that these breeds are in high demand.

RAGDOLL CATS FOR SALE

English mastiff breeders are quite common. The dogs of Mastiff breed are noticeable due its huge size, massive head and limited range of colors. They are famous for their gentle temperament. Even though they are usually calm, they are capable of protection. Until severely provoked, they do not attack any intruder. English mastiff puppies for sale are always awaited by the breeders. People are always interested in this breed as they are the largest and the heaviest of all the dogs. These dogs are quite expensive and most of the breeders choose them to make great deal of money.

There is no need for cat breeders to be upset. Your interests are also taken into consideration by the websites. Any cat lover would be aware of the most popular cat breeds like Persian, Siamese, Maine Coon, Ragdoll, Burmese, Manx, Siberian, Somali, Russian and American cats. There is a tendency for you to be protective over your cat. Mostly people decide to buy kittens for sale to add a companion to their otherwise boring life. Cats are easy to be taken care of when compared to other pet animals. They usually need only food and shelter. Even though each breed has its own characteristics, commonly they are all playful and lovable.

Let the reason for you to purchase a puppy or a kitten be anything, the basis for it is your love for animals. It is good news for you that in spite of the animal breeds they are all available through a single website so that you can choose the one of your choice. Pet classifieds are a helping hand for those who are searching for a new pet for their homes.

Buy Puppies and Kittens Through Pet Classifieds

C Myers is the author of this article on Puppy For Sale.

Find more information on Dog Breeds here

RAGDOLL CATS FOR SALE

Natural Healing For Cats With Homeopathy

Natural healing for cats is becoming very popular. One of the reasons is because it can be so flexible. Homeopathy is one of the most flexible healing modalities there is. You can use some common homeopathic medicines yourself, at home, as a home prescriber. And you can seek the services of a professional when things get a bit complicated.

cats claw herb

One of the most important lessons I have learnt from treating cats and other animals with homeopathy, is that they know what is best for them. They know which medicine is the right one and how often they need it. The only problem for humans is to learn the cat's body language.

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This concept may seem very far fetched to you at the moment. I'm not asking you to believe it. What I am asking you to do is to keep it in your mind, to be open to the possibility. Your cat will do the rest, Your cat will provide you with the proof, over and over again.

Let me give you an example. When a cat needs treatment, say after receiving an injury, you have a choice of treatments. Taking the cat to the vet for an antibiotic injection may cause the cat untold misery on the journey, as cats don't generally travel well.

Then your cat may yowl and become distressed in the waiting room. Finally, you may have to hold your cat very firmly, as she squirms and fights to avoid the needle.

The alternative could be, to go and fetch your homeopathic home prescribing kit, offer the appropriate medicine bottle to your cat for confirmation. Then to pop a small pillule into her mouth.

If you didn't heed the subtle signs, she won't let you put it in her mouth.

For cats who have had much treatment forced on them, they may automatically resist, initially. By placing one dose in a separate dish of water, you are allowing her the space and time to take it when she's ready to.

Other cats who have become resigned to having treatment forced on them may accept everything. But there will be a lack of reaction in these cats. They won't rub the bottle or otherwise indicate an enthusiastic response.

In learning about natural healing for cats, you should be prepared to have your current thinking turned on its head. It's an exciting and stimulating journey!

Natural Healing For Cats With Homeopathy

Do you want to learn more about natural good health, in particular diet and homeopathy? Download my free report 'Better Health for Cats' here.
Naturally Healthy Cats

Madeleine Innocent is a full time consultant homeopath and homeopathic coach. Visit Madeleine here:
http://naturallyhealthycats.com

CATS

The Eight Most Common Ailments in Cats

Cats have common afflictions which affect their health adversely. Most do not cause death but some do. The good news is that most of the illnesses are curable through preventive medicine. This is why it is imperative to have that annual physical and to visit your veterinarian whenever you cats behavior changes suddenly or drastically.

cats the musical costumes

The top eight afflictions are:

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1. Hairballs

Cause: Dirt and hair gather on the cat's tongue and gets swallowed. The hair and dirt stay stuck in the cat's digestive tract building into a ball of mucus.

Treatment: Usually a cat can cough up a hairball but at times a hairball can travel to the intestines where it causes serious even life threatening problem. Keeping your cat groomed, serving hairball formula cat food and treats, and regular visits to your vet are the best prevention.

2. Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)

Cause: Infections and substandard food.

Treatment: Medicine given by your veterinarian and cat food designed to prevent UTI from starting in the first place.

Symptoms: Watch for fowl smelling litter boxes or urinating outside the litter box and infrequent urinating. Male cats that have not been neutered get UTI more often than female cats do.

3. Feline Leukemia Virus (FLV).

Cause: Virus

Treatment: A vaccine given before the cat is exposed to the disease. Cats that are exposed are highly infectious and have only a short time to live.

4. Feline Immune Deficiency Virus (FIV).

Cause: Feline HIV (AIDS) Virus

Treatment: Unknown cure but no cat has died yet. Feline Immune Deficiency Virus can not be caught by humans.

5. Feline Infectious Peritonitis.

Cause: Virus in the family of the Corona Virus

Treatment: No known Cure. This disease is highly dangerous but is not spread as easily as other illnesses are. There is a test for FIP but the test results are not trustworthy. Even though there is a vaccination for this virus a number of veterinarians and scientists believe the final conclusions to be uncertain.

6. Common Cat Worms. The most common types of worms are: roundworms, tapeworms, and hookworms. Heartworms are not usually found in cats but can be a source of problems.

Cause: Environment and fleas.

Treatment: Medicine provided by your veterinarian that is relatively inexpensive. If left untreated worms can kill.

Symptoms or Signs: Tiny white specks similar to rice will appear in the stool of your cat. An infestation of fleas may precede worms, weight loss or being unable to gain weight can also indicate the presence of worms.

7. Fleas and ticks.

Cause: Exposure to untreated areas outdoors.

Treatment: Flea dips and baths, and medication given by your vet. Ticks should be removed by a veterinarian and the cat should be treated with medication to treat Lyme disease.

Symptoms of Lyme disease: slowed movements, inactivity, behaving as though they are hurting all the time.

8. Feline Obesity.

Cause: Too much food and too little exercise.

Treatment: Cats need to be under the care of a veterinarian when starting a diet. Their liver can be damaged if not supervised. Obesity is serious and leads to diabetes which affects the organs of the cat's body and can be fatal. Prevention, a healthy diet and exercise are the best treatments. Cats do live with diabetes but many require insulin and dietary supplements for the rest of their lives.

The best way to keep your cat healthy and happy is to practice good preventative careand make sure you visit your veterinarian at least one time a year.

The Eight Most Common Ailments in Cats

Debra Guevara, Owner [http://www.petfoodfreebies.com]

Visit my website for your free sample of organic pet food.

Visit my blog My Pet Notes @ http://mypetnotes.blogspot.com/

Copyright © 2008 Debra Guevara All Rights Reserved

CATS

Ragdoll Cats

Ragdoll Cats got their name from a perception that they go limp when picked up. They have long legs, a long body, broad chest, rounded triangular head, large blue eyes, long fur and long bushy tail.

Characteristics The name Ragdoll came about due to the common fallacy that these cats go entirely limp when held. And in essence these pets are viewed as ragdoll-like in that they are believed to be pain-resistant, which of course is false. These beautiful cats, with Siamese-like markings and long fur, may have coined the name Ragdoll since they're heftier than other housecats with their large frame. They also tend to be a few pounds heavier than the average house cat, often weighing somewhere between 13-21 lbs.

RAGDOLL CATS

Ragdoll Cats come in six distinct colors and three patterns. The general colors include: light to medium grey, dark brown, soft orange-ish/tan, "dilutes" blue (resembles grey), lilac, and ivory/white. The three patterns are: Brown nose or face, ears, paws, and tail (known as tips), no white. Colored paws chin and belly, no white line on face. And two-tone - white paws, white belly, reverse 'V' on face, and sometimes white patches on back. Alternate versions include "tortie-point" and lynx.

Temperament It is typical for a Ragdoll to be non-defensive in nature, and thus ought to be kept indoors unless the owner intends on keeping an eye on their pet outdoors. They aren't often vocal and are easily inclined to forgive in the instance of being mistreated. Like most cats, when introduced and well acquainted with humans from birth, they desire human companionship and are very affectionate. When at play, Ragdoll Cats are very gentle. They have a tendency to be dog-like in the fact that they often follow their owners around seeking attention.

Brief History Ann Baker, a Persian cat breeder and the first to trademark the Ragdoll breed, selected a few Burmese-type cats (some with Siamese markings) to breed with one of her Persians. All Ragdoll cats today are descendants of that first litter. This explains why some of these pets are mostly white with a few tan markings, some are ivory with a brown face, ears and paws, and some may even be entirely brown or black. Baker took into account a cat's markings, features, and easygoing temperament when selecting for breeding.

Care and grooming of Ragdoll's ought to be kept up as with any other housecat; frequent combing of fur, good nutrition, regular play and veterinary visits.

Ragdoll Cats

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RAGDOLL CATS

Pet Clothes and Accessories for Cats

Cats are very sophisticated animals that would really look cute when they are being dressed with different kinds of pet clothes. But they would even look cuter and more adorable when owners buy different kinds of accessories for them.

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Are you one of those who love to buy clothes for your feline pet? Well if you are, then you should also consider buying accessories. As mentioned, these items can make your pet look more adorable. Not only that, but some of these can actually add protection to your pet.

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Since clothes for cats are quite common and readily available in many pet stores, it is more important for you to know some of the accessories that you can buy for your pet.

So what are these accessories that you can buy? Well number one on the list are cat boots. Yes, just like dogs, cats also have their own set of boots. There are cute booties that are knitted then there are also those that are made from nylon which have water-proofing capabilities and have rubber soles.

Then another kind of accessory that you can buy for your cat which actually looks good with any kind of pet clothes is cat bandannas. Most of these items come in cute colors and have printed designs.

Scarves are also another accessory that cats can use. This is an important one especially during winter time since it can add warmth to your pet. Not only that, but scarves are actually very stylish so this can provide a good and adorable look to your cat especially when he or she is wearing a cat vest.

Hats are also one of the common accessories that you can buy for your pet. You can buy Santa hats during Christmas time. You can also buy those cute and knitted hats that would make you pet look like one sophisticated and pampered animal.

Lastly, you can also get ribbons, jewelries, and collars for your pet. Most of these accessories will perfectly match any pet clothes that you buy.

Pet Clothes and Accessories for Cats

Praline Ramirez is a writer for Pawstogo, an online pet boutique. Visit us at http://Pawstogo.com

CATS

Beware of Exotic Big Cats For Sale

In just about any country in the world, it is illegal to keep a wild feline as a pet, especially if that wild feline is bigger than an average housecat. And yet day after day animal control officers and animal rescue groups discover adult big cats - even lions and tigers - being kept as "pets" in tiny barred cages. How are these people finding exotic big cats for sale?

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On The Internet

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Whether it's chat rooms, forums, the who-knows-who network or blatant classifieds, these are the many ways you can find illegal wild pets for sale online. New Yorkers in 2003 got an eye-opener when it was discovered a 400 pound tiger was living in an apartment building. It's thought that that tiger was bought as a cute little cub online from someone who was illegally breeding the animals.

Breeders can be found all over the world, including Canada and the United States that offer exotic big cats for sale. They have absolutely no regard for the animals in their care, the animals they breed or for the owners of the young cubs bought. Make no mistake - they are not animal lovers. They only love money. And they have discovered an easy way to part idiots from their money.

The Fate Of These Pets

Both the big cats and their owners often face a miserable life in some sort of cage. The owners are caged by the animal's need to eat pounds and pounds of very expensive fresh meat, and have some sort of care. They can't go out for a walk like a dog because of the panic that would ensue. Inevitably, they cannot control or care for an animal that weighs hundreds of pounds. Even if they have been declawed and defanged, the animals are still dangerous.

But it's the big cats themselves who suffer the most. They are raised in an environment that they were not evolved to live in. They need to wander miles each day and have some degree of independence in order to be happy and healthy. Once the cute phase has worn off, and the owner suffers his or her first hospitalization spell, the big cat is doomed to spend the rest of their lives in a tiny cage, without any contact or cleaning.

Don't Fall For It

Governments of the world barely care for their people, let alone their animals. It is up to individuals in order to stop the cruel and illegal breeding of exotic big cats for sale by stopping the flow of cash to the breeders and sellers. If you see an add for a cute lynx, puma, lion or whatever, don't contact this person. Contact your local animal control center for advice. If there is any legislation coming up in your community about banning the ownership of wild animals for pets, please vote to for it. And put out the word that this unnecessary cruelty must come to an end.

Beware of Exotic Big Cats For Sale

Lucy Bushman is an accomplished niche website developer and author.

To learn more about exotic big cats for sale [http://acatsguide.info/beware-of-exotic-big-cats-for-sale], please visit A Cats Guide [http://acatsguide.info] for current articles and discussions.

CATS

Manx Cat Behavior - What You Need to Know About the Manx Cats

Manx cat behavior is unlike most other cats. Some people call them the dogs of the cat world, because they are very loyal and will even play fetch with you.

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A Manx cat has a very unique appearance. Their main characteristic is a very short tail. These cats have a naturally occurring mutation of the spine. This makes these cats frequently experience arthritis in their backs because of the missing vertebrae, in severe cases it can be so debilitating the cat has to be euthanized.

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Manx cats are known to be very great hunters, and they are often used by farmers to take care of rodent problems. These cats are also known to have taken down prey that are bigger than them.

Manx cats are very slow to mature, with some of them not reaching full physical maturity until they are about five years old.

Also due to the long hind legs they tend to hop along instead of the smoother gate with most cats, which may help make them better hunters.

Overall, these cats are very playful and affectionate. They make very unique household pets are and are almost always the center of conversation. If you do decide that you want one of these cats, make sure you wait until they are at least four months old to adopt them. Once the cat is four months old you will be able to tell if they carry any problematic genetic conditions. Also make sure you only buy your cat from a reputable breeder.

Manx Cat Behavior - What You Need to Know About the Manx Cats

Whatever the cause of your cat's bad behavior, the important thing is to correct it quickly. To learn how to do this correctly, visit: Solutions To Cat Behavior Problems!

CATS

Types of Cats and Variations

Cats have lived with humans through various times and cultures, but only a few hundred years were selected and mated with the aim to produce a particular race with a clear genetic and definite.

Compared to dogs that have evolved over time, with a variety of race, size, shape and character, racial variation is narrower cat. Unlike dogs, variations in size and conformation of different races is not much different cat.

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What is a Pedigree? Pedigree Simply means lineage. Cats with Pedigree (pedigreed cat) is a cat that genealogy is known to previous generations. This pedigree must be a written record (certificate).

Pure persians cats could be mated with a pure Siamese cat. Although both cat genealogy clear, the resulting child can not be expressed as a new race (Persian / Siamese) to the resulting child has characteristics that clear and consistent

Race Cats Based on the hair, race cat can be divided into three groups, namely the long hair (longhair), short hair (shorthair) and the hair is (semi-longhair). Here is a list of races that are classified based on cats hair length:

Longhair:

- Persia

Semi longhair:

- Birman
- Turkish Van
- Turkish Angora
- Somali
- Maine Coon
- Norwegian Forest
- Balinese
- Javanese
- Ragdoll
- Tiffanie
- Tiffany
- Cymric

Shorthair:

- Exotic Shorthair
- British Shorthair
- American Shorthair
- European Shorthair
- Chartreux
- Oriental Shorthair
- Siamese
- Snowshoe
- Seychellois
- Abyssinian
- Rusian Blue
- Korat
- Burmese
- Asian Group
- Burmilla
- Bombay
- Bengal
- Tonkinese
- Egyptian Mau
- Singapura
- Ocicat
- Japanese Bobtail
- Manx
- Cornish Rex
- Devon Rex
- Selkirk Rex
- American Curl
- Scottish Fold
- American Wirehair
- Sphynx

Here are some cats that formed races because of genetic mutations:

- American Bobtail
- American Curl
- American Wirehair
- Cornish Rex
- Cymric
- Devon Rex
- German Rex
- Japanese Bobtail
- Kurilian Bobtail
- LaPerm
- Manx
- Munchkin
- Ojos Azules
- Peterbald
- Pixie
-bob
- Selkirk Rex
- Scottish Fold
- Sphynx

Race cat obtained by breeding with wild cats:

- Alpine Lynx
- Bengal
- Chausie
- Desert Lynx
- Highland Lynx
- Jaguarundi Curl
- Savannah
- Serengeti
- Toyger

Types of Cats and Variations

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Are Cats Smarter Than Dogs?

For as long as I can remember I have heard that dogs are much smarter than cats.

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However, I have felt that just because a dog will do tricks and most cats don't, is not reason enough to say cats are not smart.

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My theory has always been that cats are so smart that they won't learn any tricks unless they want to.

It is not something they have to do.

Dogs by nature are social animals and their main goal in life besides eating, is to please their people.

Cats on the other hand lack the "gene" that makes it important to please anyone, but themselves.

Why have I brought this subject up?

Well I read an article that discussed feline intelligence in Cat Watch, a magazine put out by Cornell's School of Veterinary Medicine.

It went on to say, at Tufts University School of Veterinary Medicine, researchers have found that the structure of a cat's brain and that of a human brain are very similar.

To quote the article "the physical structure of our brain and that of cats are very similar: they have the same lobes in the cerebral cortex (the seat of intelligence) as we do. Our brains function the same way, conveying data via identical neurotransmitters."

What that means, is our cats take in data from the 5 senses and process it just like we do.

Hmmmmm, thinking cats. Who would ever believe that?

But, it is true, cats process things in a way similar to our way of thinking. They actually make decisions.

Animal Discovery.com says that cats are: "incredibly resourceful and self-reliant, the species has survived thousands of years in radically different environments and living conditions. Even domestic cats show a crafty, strong-willed and versatile nature."

There is so much about cats that we take for granted or if the truth be known, we don't even think about.

When we see a cat sitting in a doorway or staring off into space, we just laugh at it, not realizing that the cat is actually thinking about what it is going to do next.

The cat is surveying the situation, using its 5 senses to determine whether it is safe or not to move onward.

We think of a cat as a somewhat anti-social animal because it is solitary by nature, but cats can adapt to conditions just as we do.

"The fact that a cat can adapt to different situations is a sign of intelligence, that goes beyond conditioning or instinct," says Dr. Julia Albright of Cornell's Veterinary School.

Cats do socialize with each other, if the situation warrants it: such as meeting at an eating or drinking place (the barn, fishing pier or where someone feeds stray cats.)

Did you know that domesticated female cats and lions are the only two species of cat that will raise their young in a group with other mothers, if it is necessary?

Cats also learn by observation.

Just because kitty is sitting there staring into space does not mean it is daydreaming. It may be learning, by watching you, how to open the cupboard door.

Kittens that are raised without their mother or other cats to observe, do not do a lot of things we consider normal behavior for cats.

Cats also retain memory, they are smart enough to know when they are scolded not to do that behavior in front of you again. They will wait until your back is turned.

Dogs on the other hand will repeat a bad behavior several times, before it finally sinks in that they are not supposed behave that way.

We will all agree that dogs are easier to train to do tricks than cats, but dogs have the predisposition to please and learning tricks is one way to please.

Cats can learn tricks, but it is harder to get them to do things, unless you provide a reward that is really appealing.

There is also the thought that dogs have been selectively bred for certain behaviors, cats have been cats forever.

There has not been a time when a cat has been selectively bred to hunt, catch birds or play only with blue yarn balls.

I agree that the particular breeds of cat have been kept as pure as possible, but have you ever heard of a cat species being bred to do a chore such as "rounding up mice."

In truth I guess it is impossible to say which species is smarter, dogs or cats, but I will leave you with this thought, "dogs have masters, cats have staff."

Need I say more?

Are Cats Smarter Than Dogs?

I have been a cat lover for more years than I can count. Cats have been an intriguing part of my life, I am fascinated by their behavior and attitude. Each of my cats have different personalities and I have found that I do not train them, they train me. In fact, I am the best trained member of my cats' staff. If you have enjoyed this article, please visit my web site: http://www.cats-and-dogs-on-the-web.com

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Tips to Make Your Own Doll

If you're interested in doll-making, or one of your main hobbies is arts and crafts, then you'd likely enjoy being able to make your own doll. Here's a secret- it's as simple and easy as you want to make it, or as complex and difficult as you want to make it. It's up to you, because it's your doll!

Doll-making is a fun craft, and when you create a doll, you're creating both a masterpiece and an heirloom. You can make a doll from something as simple as old rags and buttons, a "rag doll" or you can use store bought doll arms, legs, and heads to create your own stuffed doll. Any type of doll can be made with minimal amounts of cash or you can spend as much as you'd like.

RAGDOLL CATS

Most arts and crafts stores carry dolls already made, whether it be a stuffed "baby doll" or a "fashion doll" in heights anywhere from 5" inches to 30" inches high. Stuffed baby dolls are wonderful to make children's gifts with, and you can make special outfits for them. Or you can make a "fashion doll" and make outfits made from crocheted or knitted yard, fabric outfits, etc. Again, when you make your own doll, the sky's the limit. Use your imagination and see what you can come up with.

Hand-made dolls can be given as keep-sake or heirloom gifts, or they can be sold at craft shows or art shows for a pretty chunk of change. It's your choice what you do with the dolls you make. There's nothing like hand-crafting something with your own hands, using your own imagination and materials you have on hand. Soda bottles or dish-soap containers can be covered with fabric and "granny dolls" made, using an old dried apple for a head.

A "rag doll" can be made using a hand-sized towel and a wash-cloth. Simply roll the hand-sized towel and then roll the wash-cloth, fold the hand-sized towel over, tie off the top part for the "head" with a piece of yard or twine, and then put the rolled up wash-cloth in the next section down, then tie off again just below the wash-cloth, now you've made arms! "Rag dolls" can be given to older children as gifts, and if pretty fabrics are used, with pretty buttons for eyes, then you've made an heirloom.

When you make your own doll, there's a sense of satisfaction about it, and when you give hand-made dolls that you've made yourself as gifts, they are wonderfully appreciated and will become treasured for many years to come. Any hand-made gift is appreciated, but hand-made dolls are one of the best. They can be displayed prettily, they can be played with, and they can even be hugged and cuddled with.

Make your own doll, and enjoy the simple beauty of making something beautiful!

Tips to Make Your Own Doll

Lucy Bushman is an accomplished niche website developer and author.

To learn more about make your own dolls [http://dollcollectingtoday.info/tips-to-make-your-own-doll], please visit Doll Collecting Today [http://dollcollectingtoday.info] for current articles and discussions.

RAGDOLL CATS

Inflammatory Bowel Disease In Cats

Chronic cases of diarrhea in cats are a familiar headache for many veterinarians. Symptoms can wax and wane over a period of time, which can complicate the veterinarians assessment of the response to treatment in some cases. Many, though not all of these cats, will have inflammatory bowel disease (IDB). This article will focus on how a veterinarian is able to diagnose IBD, and what the treatment options are.

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There are many possible underlying causes when a cat presents with vomiting, diarrhea or weight loss:

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Parasites (worms)Viral disease (Coronavirus, Leukaemia virus)Bacteria (Salmonella, Campylobacter)Protozoa (Giardia, Tritrichomonas)Dietary (food intolerance, food allergy)Cancer (lymphoma, adenocarcinoma)Inflammatory bowel diseaseHormonal or metabolic (hyperthyroidism, kidney failure)Drug or toxin inducedMotility disorders

The veterinarian should take a full history from the owner, to avoid spending time and money on unnecessary testing. Factors to be considered are age, diet, appetite, worming history, weight change and the nature of the vomiting or diarrhea. It is important to differentiate vomiting from regurgitation, which is usually an esophageal problem, and to differentiate small intestinal diarrhea from large intestinal diarrhea by the frequency and consistency of the feces.

The veterinarian will then carry out a full clinical examination, before embarking on a basic approach to the diagnosis as follows:

Blood and urine tests to rule out disease elsewhere in the body which has a knock on effect on the gastrointestinal tract.Bacterial culture of the feces to rule out Salmonella & CampylobacterParasite check on the feces to rule out wormsXrays to rule out an obstruction by a foreign body or a tumorUltrasound examination of the abdomen to measure gut wall thicknessBland prescription diet for 4-6 weeks (e.g. Hills Z/D, Royal Canin Sensitivity Control)Intestinal biopsies via endoscopy or surgery.

IBD is a diagnosis of exclusion, so all of the differentials previously mentioned must be ruled out in order to make the diagnosis.

What is inflammatory bowel disease?

IBD is a term used to describe the inflammation of one of the layers in the intestinal wall. This swelling of the gut wall may occur with many other intestinal diseases, but when no cause of the inflammation is found after doing thorough testing as described above, the condition is described as idiopathic IBD (essentially, IBD of unknown cause). IBD is thought to be an overreaction to bacteria or dietary ingredients within the gut.

Are certain types of cats affected more than others?

Any age of cat can be affected, and pedigree breeds may be more commonly affected than domestic shorthair cats.

What are the treatment options once IBD has been diagnosed?

DIET

Many cats can be managed by diet alone in the long term. Diets can be hypoallergenic, high fiber or low residue. Sometimes all three of these types of food need to be trialed before the most effective one is selected. Cats are often resistant to dietary trials, and this is the main reason why many cats are given drugs to treat their IBD, the cat will just not eat the specific diet.

Hypoallergenic foods usually contain a new protein source that the cat has not encountered before such as capelin & tapioca, duck, venison or hydrolyzed protein. Diets high in fiber are recommended for colonic disease.

DRUGS

Drugs are a last resort, if the cat is still showing symptoms despite various food trials or if the cat refuses to eat the prescription diet.

Options are:

Anti inflammatory or immunosuppressive drugs Prednisolone, a corticosteroid given at 2-4mg/kg, is the most effective drug.

Budesonide This is also a steroid, with fewer side effects on the rest of the body but it is unlicensed.

Chlorambucil Sometimes given in addition to a steroid if the steroid alone working.

Metronidazole This reduces the number of bacteria in the gut, so theoretically will reduce the triggering factor for the inflammation.

Cyclosporine Normally used in dogs, this modifies the immune system. It has only been tried in a small number of cats, with mixed results.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease In Cats

Dr Matthew Homfray is one of the veterinary pet experts at [http://www.whydoesmypet.com]. Our dedicated community of caring pet experts are waiting to offer you advice, second opinions and support.

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A Cat's Tail Tells All

Have you ever wondered what your cat is feeling? Did you know that you can tell by the movement of their tail? A cat will convey their emotions through a simple motion of their tale. Just as we can show our feelings without talking through our body language, cats do the same with their tail.

Now to interpret their movements is going to allow you to know exactly what your cat is feeling or experiencing at that moment. This will also help you to leave a cat alone who does not want to be bothered or shower them with love when they want attention.

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When your cat's tail is swishing violently back and forth, sometimes called a Sword Tail, it is your indicator that they are agitated or anxious. This movement is also a warning that they could attack at any time. When you see your cat moving its tail in this motion you want to either leave it be and let it relax. You can also try to get its attention away from you or whatever is agitating it, by tossing a toy for it to play with.

A cat will curl up with its tail tucked all around it, showing that it is content. They may also want to keep to themselves for awhile in this position. Wrapping their tail around them also allows them to keep their feet warm and protected.

The tip of your cat's tail will also tell you a lot when you are watching it. If your cat's tail is lowered but the tip is curved upward, also known as the Tip-Off, it could mean that it is very nervous or unsure about its surroundings for something that has gotten its attention. You will want to approach your cat with caution when you see its tail in this position as it could get aggressive. You can soothingly talk to your cat to calm it down. If it continues to hold the tail with the tip curved upward give it space to calm down.

There is one tail position that will portray different emotions depending on other movements of your cat; this position is holding the tail straight up. If your cat is holding its tail straight up or curling slightly means it is in a friendly mood or really happy to see you. When a tail is straight up but quivering, your cat is showing its love. I have only seen this particular tail position in one of my cats. Cuddles used to jump on my lap and her tail would be straight up and quivering, it was a good feeling knowing that she loved me so much. You do however want to watch out for your cat when their tail is straight up and fully bristled, it is angry and is telling you to "Watch Out."

Another tail movement that has more than one meaning is when your cat is swishing its tail back and forth. If the swishing movement is rapid and forceful, your cat is not in the mood to play. However, the opposite is true if the movement is gentle. A swishing motion is often an indication that something has caught your cat's attention. It could be thinking about pouncing on a toy or climbing a tree.

There is one movement that may appear cute or harmless, but if your cat is against something with its tail straight up and quivering it could mean that it is marking that object. This type of tail movement is an indication that it is spraying. If you catch your cat backing up to an object, get its attention away from spraying.

Have you seen your cat's tail bush out to make it look larger than it really is? I have seen this type of tail movement in all of my cats. It is done when they are frightened or very irritated. I have only seen my cats' tail in the bushy position when they get frightened, and it usually occurs when something catches them by surprise.

Another movement that only involves the tip of the tail is a tick tock motion. If the tip of the tail is sharply moving from side to side it is a very good sign that your cat is very irritated and that it wants to be left alone.

Knowing the different movements that your cat's tail make is good to know, but what if your cat does not have a tail? There are breeds of cats that do not have tails, and a cat can also lose its tail in an accident. So how do you know what they are saying? If you have a cat without a tail, listen to its meow, purring, or watch how it is arching its back. It will show you what it is trying to tell you without its tail.

A Cat's Tail Tells All

Sharon Cowherd maintains Caring for Your Cat, a blog about her experiences and knowledge of caring for her cats. You can read more about Sharon and her cats at [http://www.caringforyourcat.com]

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