Archive for the 'Cat care' Category

Cats Bonding With Their Owners

There are a lot of experts out there who say that cats are strictly independent animals. These very same experts state that cats have chosen to associate with humans due to their strategy of survival. Although many argue with this statement, there are many who agree as well – although those that agree are normally those in the percentile who don’t agree with cats.

Anyone who has owned a cat will tell you that cats are great at bonding with people, although they are very particular. Normally, a cat will choose someone in the home that he bonds with. You’ll know when a cat wants to bond with you, as he will hop on your lap seeking attention or snuggle up to you at night when you are sleeping. Purring is a strong sign of affections, especially with cats that are looking to bond.

Although many experts have tried to figure it out, no one really knows why cats choose a particular person whom they will bond with. It could be the individual’s manners, voice, or simply how that person treats the cat. Perhaps it may be the individual is really gentle, or maybe a little more forceful – bringing the best out in the cat.

There are a lot of ways that researchers have tried to take this subject, one of which being psychic. Some say that cats bond with someone due to a “psychic aura” that is compatible with both the person and the cat. If a cat feels that someone is giving them a bad vibe, they will simply ignore that person. Although this can be true to a sense for some, a majority of those who own cats will tell you that this couldn’t be any further from the truth.

Even though there are a lot of theories and speculation out there, no one really knows why cats bond with humans. There’s little to no proof available as well, other than cats and their natural instinct for physical survival. Those who own cats know that cats crave attention, simply to make them feel needed. They love to be pampered by their owners, and will shower you with attention and affection if you just give them the chance.

Those who are new to owning cats may find bonding to be very different. Cats are different from other animals, including dogs, in the sense that they bond different. Different breeds of cats will bond different with their owners, although most prefer affection and attention. The more time you spend around your cat, the more he will bond with you. Over the years, you’ll find that the bond you create with your pet has grown very strong – and simply cannot be broken.

About the author: We provide grooming for dogs and cats, and free pet grooming consultation services and free grooming tips by breeds! Our pet products include fashionable carriers, embroidered shirts, reversible raincoats, pet shoes, cotton dresses, pet food, pet carrier, dog ribbons, and other related pet products.
Source: http://www.articlesbase.com

Veterinarian Tips For Giving Your Cat Medicine

All cats need some form of medication or preventative treatment given monthly or annually. This can often times be a daunting experience: cats will sometimes hiss, scratch frantically, then run and hide. When administering medication to your pet kitty, it can often be helpful to have a few different tactics up your sleeve. Here are a few helpful hints to make the administration of medication a little easier!

Cat medication generally comes in 3 different ways of administration: pills, liquid, or topical treatments, like preventive flea or tick products. Depending on the form of medication, you will want to change your tactic. Cats can be picky, and they are often hard to trick- this requires skill on your part, but it can be done!

First we’ll look at medicinal pills for your kitty. You can try to either camouflage the pill in their dinner (which sometimes works, but it is not a sure thing), or you can put the pill in some soft baby food. The taste is new, interesting, and intriguing to cats; they may be so absorbed in this new treat that they do not notice the pill. If this does not work, more drastic measures are in order.

Here’s how you can safely administer the pill without fear of getting scratched or bitten: kneel on the floor and place your kitty between your knees (this allows your hands to remain free). Then, make sure your cat’s front paws are tucked safely and securely in between your knees so they are unable to move or crawl away. Next, gently place the palm of your hand on the top of your cat’s head, and put your thumb and index finger on either side of your cat’s jaw. This would gently pry open their mouth. Then, place the pill as far back in their mouth as you can, and keep their head tilted back until the pill is swallowed. Sometimes rubbing your kitty’s neck gently helps them swallow as well.

When administering liquid medicine, you can either opt to mix it with baby food, or use the same pinning procedure that was previously described. This time, all you will need is a medicine dropper or a sterile 10cc syringe (without the needle, please!) and measure the correct dosage of medication and as you tilt your cat’s head back squirt the medication into their mouth. Don’t worry, cats do not breathe through their mouths, so there is no need to fear choking your kitty. Because cats can sometimes vomit easily, it may be a good idea to give your kitty a treat after their medication to help settle their stomach.

Finally, topical treatment administration is often the simplest of the three. Wrap your cat in a towel, which restrains them and holds them securely in place. Simply grab the ruff of their neck in between their shoulder blades and clean and administer the medication.

Though giving your pets their needed medication can be a stressful experience for you and your cat, it doesn’t have to be. By following these indicated procedures, it should make the experience easier on the both of you. Good luck in your medication administration endeavors!

About the author: Visit Dog-Bed.org & LVE Productions for more great content.
Source: http://www.articlesbase.com

Recognizing Cat Toxic Plants

A home should never be without plants. In some cases however, the plants in your indoor pots and the ones in your garden could be the cause of illness or death in your pet cat. There are points therefore that you should remember to help prevent your cat from getting poisoned by plants.

Plants Toxic to Cats

Over a hundred listed cat toxic plants are listed online. Others estimate however, that the list of toxic plants could go well over 700. What is important is that you are able to easily identify a potential plant hazard. When ingested, cats will often become groggy, agitated and may vomit or have diarrhea. In severe cases, cats could die of plant poisoning.

Lilies, mistletoe, poinsettia, poison ivy, aloe vera, eucalyptus, ferns, chrysanthemum, daffodil, holly, jonquil and tulip are just some of the plants that are toxic to your cats. Certain plants may not be toxic by nature but they can be harmful to your cat if they have been sprayed with pesticide.

Why Cats Play with These Plants

Curious and playful, your cat would consider a big potted plant as a new item to explore. Cats also love to play with grass. If you keep your cat all day indoors, he may start to think of your plant as replacement grass. In some cases, cats may even use the soft inviting soil as a litter spot.

In the course of a cat’s play time therefore, he may either accidentally or intentionally nibble on your indoor plant.

Redecorating Ideas

Of course, it’s never easy to redecorate your home to make it cat-friendly. This is especially true if you have to cat-proof your garden too.

One solution for gardens with cat toxic plants is to keep sprinklers on a timer to drive your little explorer away. You may also want to consider putting up a fence around dangerous plants.

To keep your cats safe from indoor plants, provide a screened area for these plants. Sprinkling some cayenne powder also seems to be an effective deterrent for cats.

Other entertainment

Your cats are different from toddlers. It would therefore be harder for you to explain why they absolutely cannot have a bite of that fern. It is suggested that you offer your cat other activities to carefully divert his attention. You can offer him a grass patch or a scratching post. Make sure too that he has a variety of toys and regular outdoor playtime. In the long run however, the best solution to keep your cat safe from toxic plants is to monitor him.

Immediate Response

Respond immediately if you notice the symptoms of poisoning in your cat. Carefully inspect your cat’s mouth and remove plant leaves that may still be inside. As much as possible, do not attempt to come up with a solution on your own. The vet will know best what to do in poisoning situations.

About the author: Read more cat toxic plants that may be dangerous to your cat at the healthy cat.
Source: http://www.articlesbase.com

« Previous PageNext Page »