Feline Obesity - Feeding Fat Cats

Garfield is the icon of the all-American fat cat. But feline obesity is no laughing matter. It is a serious health concern that all owners should be aware of. Obesity is the No. 1 feline health problem in most countries in which cats are house pets. Some owners may not realize their cats weigh in as obese, but a few extra pounds can have a large impact on a cat. Three extra pounds on a cat is like 40 extra pounds on an average human.

Livin' Large by Stuart Chalmers

Sometimes Less Is More. If your cat is obese as a result of other health problems, you can establish a plan to shed those unwanted pounds. Overfeeding is a common reason for obesity. Cats tend to be grazers and by tightly controlling the daily feeding to the recommended guidelines on every bag, most problems can be avoided.

Another method to counteract overfeeding is to offer meals periodically throughout the day to your cats.

Cats living in multiple-cat households may be sneaking more than their fair share at meal time. Stores have timing bowls that reveal meal portions at different times of the day, or over a few days for short travel periods. Treats may be a dangerous addition to a cat's diet if you overindulge. Treats add calories that aren't always counted, so they can make a cat fat all by themselves if too much is provide.

Low-calorie treats may be a better option for owners who are training their cats or who can't resist spoiling them. You should eliminate table scraps that can defeat the benefits of the complete and balanced nutrition a formula food offers.

Exercise can burn calories and also has other health benefits. Lighter food and less food are important, but you have to put exercise into the formula. Some cats, including senior cats, may not jump at the chance to increase their heart rate.

House cats can be difficult to exercise and cats have a different mentality than dogs. Cats say, 'You have to give me something really good to get me to play and to come out from lying around'.

Interactive toys, catnip toys and toys with erratic movement may persuade a kitty to abandon its sunny napping spot to burn some calories. Mentally challenging cat toys may keep cats at a healthier weight. Cats love those crinkly toys and laser pointers.

Mix meal time with play time by putting dry kibble into a toy.

Making kibble feeding a game can help lengthen the feeding process, provide a mental challenge and discourage gorging at the bowl.

Leash training can be successful if you start cats off at an early age. Short and frequent walks, 15 to 20 minutes at a time, are best for cats that have less stamina than dogs. By slowly acclimating the pet to the feel of the harness and leash for increasing periods of time, cats can enjoy the same sort of exercise that's common for dog owners to employ.

Indoor cats are more likely to be sedentary, but don't be fooled. Some outdoor cats may not be getting enough exercise. You still have to monitor them because it depends on the cat.

Keep in mind that cats are fickle creatures, so variety is a necessity.

Author Resource: Animal44 is the owner and administrator of http://thatdarncat.aimoo.com a discussion board that spans all aspects of cats. You may repost this article as long as all links and original content are included.

Breakthrough Treatments for Arthritis in Cats

What I love about living in today's world is that there are so many advancements going on. If you have ever had a cat that was diagnosed with arthritis or you think your cat is displaying signs of arthritis, then the good news is that you have a greater variety of options when it comes to treatment for arthritis in cats. It seems that modern medicine has found that it can work in harmony and with success when it comes to combining with the natural remedies and more traditional medicines. There have been some major breakthroughs when it comes to treatment for arthritis in cats.

Xray of Cat Showing Arthritis in Hip by James Quinn

For many years now, NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) have been used to curb the inflammation and pain that arthritis brings. It has had limited success due to the harsh side effects that it causes, especially to cats. However, many veterinarians believe that they can effectively combine the traditional NSAIDS with more herbal or natural remedies to combine and be an effective defense against the onset of feline arthritis. The NSAIDS would be used in far lesser quantities and therefore tolerance should be more acceptable.

The combination of the NSAIDS would be with a group of known safe natural drugs that have been called DMOAAs (Disease Modifying Osteoarthritic Agents). There have already been studies that suggest that these drugs have been successful in the treatment and can be a good preventative measure in the onset of arthritis. The most encouraging aspect of these tests is that they have not shown to have incurred any side effects and indeed will require the animal take a lower dosage of the NSAIDS. It is believed that they are just as successful as the use of NSAIDS on their own.

This is great news for the felines of the world. With a delicate metabolism and a propensity to be sensitive to medication, any drug that delivers zero side effects would be most welcomed. These drugs have also been found to aid in other ailments such as itchy flaky skin (pruritis) and also have some anti-cancer effects as well as being able to prevent an Alzheimer-like condition.

In addition to those breakthroughs, the DMOAAs have proven to be a very effective treatment for arthritis in cats. They can remove free radicals, which are responsible for joint damage, as well as rebuild cartilage and halt the breakdown of the surface of the joint. Clearly, this is a very exciting time in medicine and when it comes to finding a successful and effective treatment for arthritis in cats, then the combination of traditional and modern medicine is a welcomed partnership for many.

Obviously, preventative measures to ensure that your cat gets the best chance at health and life without the risk of arthritis is of optimum importance. While you cannot prevent many types of arthritis, you can certainly treat your cat before the symptoms show. This would therefore enable your pet to live comfortably for as long as possible without the prospect of pain and until there is the next medical breakthrough.

Author Resource: Written by Kate Rieger
Work to help your cat's weight down and play games with your cat to keep him moving. Exercise keeps his joints lubricated. Finally, consider this natural option as a cat arthritis treatment . Find out how to qualify for product when you visit http://ArthritisCatsTreatment.com.

Article From Pet Article World

The Most Common Pet Infections and Pet Medications

Our pets are our best friends. We love them and their company and they have an unconditional love for us. And when one of them gets sick, it can be just as tough as having to care for a sick child. It's also just as stressful. Infections are the most common health issue in dogs and cats, as well as many other animals you may have as a pet. There are a few common ones that you should look out for and basic medications you should get to treat them.

Kitten with an Eye Infection by bejealousofme (rather ironic)

The first common problem is an ear infection. If your pet's ear seems to have a discharge, any swelling, or if it seems painful to your pet when touched, it could mean there's a serious problem. Most infections are due to a build up of wax, but can also be an allergic reaction. The infection can be bacterial, as well as caused by yeast or ear mites. Each of these problems would be treated with antibiotics, anti-fungal pet medication, or anti-parasitic meds like Mita-Clear respectively.

Another problem you may see are eye infections. The most common and easy to spot symptom is excess discharge. All pets have a discharge build up, just like human do. But if it seems to be a different color, mucus-like and more excessive than usual, it should be checked out. Overly watery eyes is another thing to look out for. Antibiotics will have to be prescribed such as terramycin, but an eye wash for pets will help ease their discomfort in the meantime while the infection clears up.

Urinary tract infections are common in cats but also can occur in female dogs. The infection affects them much the same as it would in a human. Your cat or dog may whine while tring to go to the bathroom, usually letting you know they are feeling discomfort. If there seems to be redness around the bladder area, a stronger urine smell than you are used to and they are drinking far more water than usual, it's pretty apparent a UTI is the problem. This can be treated with antibiotics as well as a change in dietary habits. They can also be given over the counter pet medication to ease the pain in the meantime like Cranberry Relief.

Lastly, upper respiratory infections are as common in cats and dogs as humans. They too can experience symptoms of sneezing, runny noses, and even a cough. It's most likely spread from animal to animal, especially in shelters, so it's not uncommon to adopt a pet and come home only to find they have a respiratory infection. Never leave a respiratory infection untreated as it may lead to further complications like pneumonia.

Author Resource: Written by Mark Etinger
Nate's Pharmacy is a Brooklyn pharmacy specializing in compounding medicines and other health products. For pharmacy services and information on pet medications, visit www.NatesPharmacy.com

Article From Pet Article World

The Norweigan Forest Cat is a Beast

The Norwegian Forest cat is quite a beastly feline, in appearance, and occasionally demeanor. They are known for being gentle with humans, and reasonably patient with children. However, just like the pit bull (sorry to mention dogs) can be a deadly creature, so too can the Forest Cat. Not necessarily to humans, but to small rodent-like creatures that roam the land around your home. The forest cat is a hardy animal, and if given the opportunity to venture outside, it will not hesitate to do some mousing, or potentially some squirreling.

Wonder if I'll Get a Cat Fish? by Thomas Mues

A "Wegie" as some like to refer to their forest cats, knows it is big. Animals, like humans, size up competition. This cat's size advantage tends to get it into a bit of trouble when it goes outside. A squirrel is not a weak, docile creature. When cornered and attacked, they will fight back with their pointy, acorn gnawing teeth, and your forest cat could get some pretty nasty bites. Squirrels really aren't concerned with how clean their teeth are, bacteria abounds in their little gray mouths. So if your forest cat is banishing squirrels from the land, be sure to check their chest and forearms for little bites and scratches.

In addition to getting into tussles with rodents, forest cats are more likely to face-off with a dog than other cats, because of their size. A smaller cat may run when a medium sized dog attempts an attack, but a forest cat will often hold its ground and attempt to scare off the dog or fight. And some of these medium sized dogs are stronger than a forest cat, and will cause serious injuries. The majority of the time the cat escapes, because it is faster and more agile than the dog, but it will still likely get some wounds. The forest cat loves to climb trees too, they are natural hunters, and will climb trees to chase and stalk prey or just to get a good look at their kitty kingdom. Even though your cat looks like the most regal and graceful creature on the planet, it is still capable of falling out of a tree. Yes, that pretty, full tailed, wonder cat can still fall, haha.

This cat is going to want to put its thick water proof coat, and big fur covered paws to use in the elements, there is no doubt about it. It will want to get out and roam, and roam often, it's the nature of the mythical feline. If you have an extremely high fenced in yard, or a high walled yard, you can let them out and enjoy the fresh air and bounce around. You could also take this breed for a walk in the woods if you think you can make your cat feel inferior to you, but it's a bit difficult. Worth a try though. Often times you can make a homemade cat walking leash out of some very thick fishing line. The strength and malleability of the string will allow the cat to have a blast in the woods. But, don't let the cat go up a tree to high, because you don't want to have any unfortunate accidents. You can also get a cat play enclosure for outside, but these mortal pens or not really designed for a Norwegian Forest cat.

Author Resource: Written by Scott R. Jones
Make sure your cat has insurance that can take care of it in the event of any accident. Visit this cat health insurance site to read about the most reputable cat insurance available.

Ten Things to Consider When Purchasing a Savannah Cat

1.) Savannahs are like any other domestic pet. They need food, shelter, basic veterinary care, and a safe, loving home. If you can't provide for these basic needs, you shouldn't consider buying a savannah or any other pet, really.

2.) Savannahs are a larger breed of cat. They can reach weights of 15 -20 pounds or more. While you may not mind a large loving lump of fur greeting you at the door every day, you'll have to consider if your home has enough space for you, your family and your savannah, too.

Savannah Kitten by Karen Leigh

3.) Savannahs need room to romp and opportunities to play. They are extremely energetic, playful and active. You'll need to ensure that your home provides plenty of safe space for your savannah to roam, while giving it lots of interesting and stimulating toys. Savannahs love toys. They also love to chew, so toys that have buttons, loose strings or other small parts that could be chewed off and swallowed should be avoided, as the small parts could pos a choking hazard. Savannahs are very agile and great jumpers. It's no sweat for a savannah to bound from the floor to the top of the refrigerator. So, you may need to "cat proof" areas in your home you hadn't considered. They love water, too, so you may need to buy a heavy-duty metal dog watering bowl, or one of those self-waterers, to keep your savannah from dragging the bowl around or playing in it. Don't be surprised to find that your savannah likes showering with you, too.

4.) Savannahs are highly intelligent. They need lots of stimulation and interaction. They can learn to play fetch with small dowels or pencils. They are very curious and will explore closets, cupboards and other areas of your home with abandon. They can be trained to walk on a leash with a harness or leash jacket, and seem to enjoy going out and about. Owners have reported that savannahs have learned how to do things like turn on light switches, pat at the remote control buttons to turn on or off the tv or stereo, turn on and off paddle-style faucet handles, and even one who learned to turn doorknobs so that he could enter or exit any interior room he pleased, when he pleased.

5.) Savannahs are cats. As with other cats, they typically don't take too well to changes in their diet, or their environment. If you do need to change your savannah's food, you'll want to do so gradually, adding a bit more of the newer food in with the old, until you've switched over completely. One owner reports that her savannah shows displeasure with new food by dumping the entire bowl over and scattering the offensive offering all over the kitchen floor. Remember, savannahs are highly intelligent, and will find ways of making their opinions known.

6.) Savannahs are very vocal animals. They have a distinctive cry and can be quite loud about it, too. Thin-walled condos may not be the best environment for a savannah, unless your neighbors don't mind.

Adult Savannah by miheco

7.) Savannahs are hybrid animals. Some states and counties within states don't allow hybrids to reside there. You'll want to check with your local veterinarian, ASPCA, Humane Society or law enforcement officials before purchasing a kitty you can have, but can't live with.

8.) Savannahs are only a few generations from the wild. The earlier the generation, say an F1 or F2 savannah, the closer to a wild animal they are. They will see other small animals in the home, like birds, hamsters, guinea pigs, fish, mice and the like as prey. Their hunting instincts combined with their high intelligence will have them figuring out ways to open cages, aquariums and other small animal habitats. It is probably best if you have a collection of small pets to purchase a later generation savannah, as it will be less inclined to see Bongo the hamster as lunch.

9.) Savannah males are sterile, but should be neutered anyway. They will still have the hormones, and won't be aware that they are sterile. To avoid spraying and marking of territory, aggressive behaviors towards female cats and other unpleasant incidences, you should have them neutered at about 5 to 6 months of age, as you would any other domestic male cat.

10.) Savannahs are hybrids, and are difficult to breed. This makes them a bit rare and exotic. Therefore, the kittens, especially the F1 and F2 generations, will be more expensive than other breeds and later generations of savannahs, such as F3 and F4 kittens. Paying more or less for a savannah isn't always an indication of the quality of the kitten or its breeding stock. It has more to do with what generation of cat you are looking into purchasing.

Author Resource: Written by Ryan Petersen
Urban Safari Cattery is home to the finest savannah cat and bengal kitten breeding with information regarding the history and development of this beautiful breed. Visit online today.

Do Cats Think?

I don’t know why I thought I could get away with it.

When my cat “Bear” jumped onto my lap expecting his morning petting session, I wondered if THIS time I could get away with reading the newspaper while giving him a few off-hand, preoccupied strokes.

Do I Think? Yeah, and I'm Thinking I Want To Be Outside by Alexander Somma

“Heh, heh”, I thought. “I’ll start by giving him my full attention but then I’ll sneak my paper in when he’s not looking.” I “chucked” him under the chin while stroking him from head to tail, and he began rolling in ecstasy.

When he turned his back on me, sprawling on his stomach, my moment came. Quickly, I reached for the newspaper with my right hand. Continuing to pet Bear with my left, I opened it to the front page.

Bear put his ears back.

“Uh, oh”, I said to myself. “But wait…he can’t see what I’m doing. How does he know that I’m cheating?”

But he knew.

Bear tolerated it for a few moments; his ears laid back, his tail thrashing. Suddenly he leaped from my lap and lay down on the floor. After a few minutes of washing, he stared at me with an accusing expression.

I’d spoiled HIS morning petting session with my own selfishness and he was clearly letting me know the error of my ways.

Do Cats Think?
Cat owners may be the only pet lovers who sincerely believe their pets think. It won’t be the first time that a cat owner has the distinctly uncanny feeling that not only does his beloved cat think, but that he is being manipulated by her.

Veteran cat owners have noticed:

• Cats are an extremely obsessed and determined animal.
• Cats seem to contemplate things and make decisions.
• Cats choose and adopt people.
• Cats become offended and can hold grudges at insults to their dignity. Fortunately they forget them pretty quickly.
• They are embarrassed easily and seem to cover it up with nonchalant behavior.
• They are extremely independent, but want to cooperate with humans as long as this spirit of cooperation is thoroughly disguised.

In short, the cat “owner” always has the vague feeling that he is somehow being conned, but is never sure exactly in what way.

What Do We Mean By The Word "THINK"?
Answers.com defines the ability to think as “To exercise the power of reason, as by conceiving ideas, drawing inferences, and using judgment.”

Arguably, it is the power of reason, the ability to conceive ideas, use judgment and put the results into action that has placed Man at the top of the food chain. In other words, Man dominates his/her environment because of his/her ability to think.

The Cat Brain and Cat Behavior
Cats are often used as experimental animals because the feline brain is structured like the human brain. The question is, however, do these similarities result in similar cognitive processes, i.e., can a cat actually assemble information, reason things out and make decisions?

The cat’s lack of cooperation with trainers has been taken either as a high degree of intelligence on the part of the feline (either too smart to do what a human tells her to) or a low degree (too stupid to be amenable to training).

Cat lovers usually opt for the former having the distinct impression that they, not their cats, are being trained.

Can Cats Use Tools?
A writer for About.com, J. Justin Lancaster, reported that his cat Sasha had discovered a way to wet down her dry cat food by carrying a cotton hair “scrunchy” to the toilet to wet it and subsequently using it to drip water on her food. This may be the most sophisticated use of tools ever observed in the non-human animal kingdom.

On the other hand, most cat owners observe that a cat, when confronted with an obstacle barring her from a goal, will never move the obstacle out of the way. If the obstacle falls out of the way the cat will be momentarily surprised, but will then proceed to reach the unobstructed goal.

When finding herself again in the same situation, with the same destination blocked by the same obstacle, the cat will not knock the obstacle out of the way even though previous experience has shown that this is the best way reach the goal.

The Jury Is Out
So, the jury is either out, or “hung”, on the question of whether or not cats think.

But when my cat, without looking at me, knows that I’m not giving him my full attention, and gives every evidenced of being miffed at this, I wonder.

Why is petting him while reading the newspaper not the same thing as petting him while using my full concentration?

It doesn’t make sense unless I accept the possibility that he has thought it out. That he has decided that it is either all or nothing, and he just isn’t going accept “playing second fiddle” to a newspaper. And his conclusion is: I’d better shape up. Anything short of my full attention is not acceptable.

He is going to get a full petting from me -- or not at all.

About the Author: John Young is an editor and writer living in Southern California with his wife and pet cat “Bear”. He is author of “Your New Cat’s First 24 Hours”, http://www.yourcatsecrets.com and editor of a new ezine “The Online Cat”, http://www.theonlinecat.com .

Source: www.isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=158549&ca=Pets

Cat Claws - A Sticky Subject

Cat claws are optimized for stealthy hunting and for defense. Your cat will also entertain you when you offer her a gift-wrapped package to open. Nothing like ribbons and noisy paper to tear into with her razor sharp cat claws.

Have you ever looked at your cat's claws? If you gently press on his paw pad, the little sword will pop out so you can have a good look at it. Just look at those things. You would never consider cat claws a form of skin!

Nature's Scratching and Sharpening Post by Arnaud Soyez

Your cat's little swords are more similar to skin than to bone. Your cat's claws undergo the same process to regenerate as does skin or hair. They are, in fact, a form of skin.

Cat claws have a dermis and an epidermis. Keratin forms the outermost layer of the outer epidermis. It forms a horn-like protein called the cuticle. This cuticle is hard and white and is actually dead tissue. Its job is to protect the living tissue on the inner part of the cat claw.

The inner tissue is called the quick. You can tell this easily because it is pink colored. It's pink because that is blood. There is also nerves at the quick. Cat claws regenerate with cells much like your skin regenerates.

Each claw is attached to the terminal bone of your cat's toe and is held in place by a thin layer of skin. Tendons above and below the toe bones are what your cat uses to extend and retract his claws.

One reason your cat can sneak up on prey is because his claws retract. Unlike a dog who's toenail clicky, clack across the kitchen floor, your cat walks silently without all that racket. Watch out mouse!

Your cat's claws perform other life saving functions. Your cat can escape a chasing coyote or dog by running up a tree. He can use his cat claws to rip away at another animal trying to harm him. Extended cat claws are essential to fend off predators.

The average cat has 18 claws-four on each hind paw and four on each front paw plus a dew claw. The dew claw is sort of like a human thumb without all the dexterity.

Although claws really don't present a problem to your cat, claws can be a problem for cat owners. Cats absolutely must scratch. That's where the problem come into play.

When your cat scratches away at your couch or carpet or table leg, then you get perturbed. Cat scratching is innate behavior, meaning that it's part of their nature.

They scratch for three reasons: to leave visual markers; to mark territory with scent glands in their paws; to slough off the old outer layer of their claws.

It really is easy and far more cost effective to provide your kitty with a good cat tree that he can use for his shedding his cat claws and marking. They love sisal and that is a better choice than a carpet covered cat tree.

Author Resource: Written by Kate Rieger
Try the natural remedies found at http://www.Better-Pet-Health.com to keep your kitty healthy and vigorous. Find help for cystitis in cats at http://www.Pet-Natural-Remedies.com

Article From Pet Article World

American Curl - History and Breed

Boasting head adornments that could have easily been fashioned by a legendary hat designer, along with their opulently plumed tails reminiscent of a luxurious ostrich-feather boa, the American Curl has audiences in awe worldwide. Distinguished by truly unique ears that curl back in a graceful arc offering an alert, perky, happily-surprised expression, people break out into a big smile when viewing their first Curl. Designed exclusively by Mother Nature, the ears can be likened to those of a Lynx with long tufts fanning outward accentuating the swept-back look, while complementing the Curl's overall sophistication, stylish elegance, and dynamic presence.

American Curl Catching a Ride by Katja Maasing

Wake-up call! The alarm rings and emerging out from under the covers eager to start the day is your Curl buddy. Eyelid pats, nose kisses, and hairlicking prompt a gentle awakening. Then your eyes focus on that exuberant little Curl face, and another day begins. The Curl personality is truly unique. If not sleeping up high somewhere in a large salad bowl, figuring out with great determination just how to get into the shower with you, or assuming their spot right in front of a favorite TV show, they are patting at your glasses while you try to read the paper. Needless to say, Curls are very people-oriented, faithful, affectionate soulmates adjusting remarkably fast to other pets, children, and new situations. People say they are very dog-like in their attentiveness to their owners, following them around so not to miss anything. When introduced into a new home, Curl's seem to have an inherent respect for the current pet occupants, giving them plenty of room to adjust to the new kid on the block. Not overly talkative, the Curl's curiosity and intelligence is expressed through little trill-like cooing sounds. Because they retain their kitten-like personality well throughout adulthood, they are referred to as the Peter Pan of felines.

When Curls are born, their ears are straight. In 3 to 5 days they start to curl back staying in a tight rosebud position, unfurling gradually until permanently 'set' at around 16 weeks. This is the time breeders determine the kitten's ear quality as either pet or show in addition to the kitten's overall conformation. The degree of ear curl can vary greatly, ranging from almost straight (pet quality) to a show quality ear with an arc of 90-180 degrees resembling a graceful shell-like curvature. Although the distinctive feature of the American Curl is their uniquely curled ears, the medium-sized rectangular body, silky flat-lying coat, and expressive walnut-shaped eyes are equally indicative of the breed. They are available in both long and shorthair color and pattern varieties, and since there is minimal undercoat, the Curl sheds little and requires hardly any grooming.

Indeed, the discovery of a novel cat is an event of great importance to feline fans and fanatics, and especially true when it is inherently born to radiate well-being and good things to all fortunate enough to hold one. As the founder of this amazingly spiritual breed says, "They are not just 'decorator' cats. You might say that they are 'designer' cats, perhaps even signed masterpieces of a humor-loving Creator."

Pricing on American Curls usually depends on type, applicable markings and bloodlines distinguished by Grand Champion (GC), National, National Breed and/or Regional winning parentage (NW, BW, RW) or of Distinguished Merit parentage (DM). The DM title is achieved by the dam (mother) having produced five CFA grand champion/premier (alter) or DM offspring, or sire (father) having produced fifteen CFA grand champion/premier offspring. Usually breeders make kittens available between twelve and sixteen weeks of age. After 12 weeks, kittens have had their basic inoculations, and developed the physical and social stability needed for a new environment, showing, or being transported by air. Keeping such a rare treasure indoors, neutering or spaying, and providing acceptable surfaces (e.g. scratching posts) for the natural behavior of scratching (CFA disapproves of declawing or tendonectomy surgery) are essential elements for maintaining a healthy, long and joyful life.

About the Author
Animal44 is the owner and administrator of http://thatdarncat.aimoo.com a discussion board that spans all aspects of cats. You may repost this article as long as all links and original content are included.

The Chausie - Exotic Hybrid Cat

The Chausie - Is this hybrid cat breed right for you?

A Chausie is also known as Jungle Curl, Stone Cougar, or Mountain Cougar. It is a hybrid of the Domestic Cat (Felis Silvestris Catus) and Jungle Cat (Felis Chaus). Despite their wild appearance, they are domestic. Never heard of a Chausie? You're not alone. This exotic breed is the result of careful breeding between domestic cats and wild jungle cats. Chausies were bred the first time in the 1960's and 1970's as a safer alternative to keeping jungle cats in the house. In the late 1990's a group of people began to breed and develop the hybrid jungle cat. These breeders have made a concentrated effort to acquire the traits of medical and personality that have made this breed apart from others. One of the first things done was to choose a name that describes the breed. The name "Chausie" (pronounced "chow-see") was derived from the Latin name for the Jungle Cat, Felis Chaus.

Sleeping Chausie Kitten by Karen Leigh

Breeding History
The goal in breeding the Chausie remains the same today as it was when they were first created: a breed that has the looks, grace, and the size of a wild jungle cat, but the gentle disposition of a domestic cat. Today, the most common domestic breed used to produce Chausies is the Abyssinian, this is because it has the same look as the jungle cat, but is substantially smaller. Since adult males can reach no less than 25 pounds, Chausies require large spaces and lots of activity. Although the Chausie has not been identified by the CFA, they were granted the status in the International Cat Association (TICA) in 1995. Chausie males in the first and third generations are usually sterile, so only Chausies four generations removed from the wild cat ancestor are considered "show quality" animals. In addition to being extremely loyal to its owners, Chausies have a level of high energy, are champion jumpers, and are extremely playful, making them an ideal companion for young children.

Appearance and Behavior
The Chausie has a wild look, with a long, slender body and large tufted ears. They are elegant in appearance and statuesque. They have gold or yellow eyes and the head is resembles a triangle with three rounded corners. Chausie males typically weigh about 25 pounds, while females tend to be smaller. It is not uncommon for a male Chausie to reach 30 Pounds. They can be found in three colors - brown ticked tabby, solid black and silver-tipped black. Their ears are particularly alert and mobile. Chausies are known for their speed and vertical jump of nearly six feet. The breed has a strong resemblance to its wild ancestor, but is good natured, loyal, intelligent and affectionate, as you would expect in a domestic cat. It is a very active breed, and loves to play with toys or other cats. It keeps this quality in adulthood. Chausie cats are very active and people oriented. They are excellent jumpers and hunters. They need time and attention, particularly interactive play time. Despite their wild ancestry, Chausies are people oriented and affectionate. They tend to be courageous, which can get in trouble if they are allowed outside. They can learn to open doors and cupboards and love to get into things. They tend to be very interactive, as they want to be in the middle of whatever is going on. They are curious and intelligent. They need stimulation and interaction. They are not a breed that does well if left alone all day.

Conclusion
In Egypt, over 3000 years ago, they valued the jungle cat. They admired admired enough to paint murals and honor them in funeral ceremonies, They mummified them to send their pharaohs in the afterlife. These cats were beloved companions and highly revered. It is much the same today with their more domesticated relative, the Chausie. Please consider this article when you decide if the Chausie is the right breed for you.

About Author:
Written by Bob Roberts
I have been an animal lover all my life and a dog trainer for 11 years. I support responsible breeding and care of companion animals. http://www.top-pet-names.com for pet care tips, dog and cat names lists and funny pet pictures. Come share your pets name with us. For more information and help finding a Chausie breeder, please visit the Chausie Breed Committee website. For information on pets, photos, interesting articles, and cat name lists, visit Top Pet Names.

Article Source: http://www.sooperarticles.com/pets-articles/cat-articles/chausie-exotic-hybrid-cat-256012.html

How Kittens Learn to Hunt

Cats have been famous for hunting mice and rats for as long as cats and people have been together. As strange as it may seem to some people, cats are not born knowing how to hunt. It is a skill they learn from watching their mothers. If the mother cat is a good hunter, then her kittens will learn to be good hunters. Interestingly, kittens seem to learn the best from their mothers. They do not seem to learn as well or as quickly from watching other adult cats.

Cat and Mouse by Urban Hippie Love

At about five or six weeks of age, a mother cat will begin teaching her kittens how to hunt. At first she brings dead mice to the kittens. She will eat some of the mice in front of the kittens. In this way she is showing them that mice are their prey and that they are good to eat. As time goes on the kittens begin to play with the dead mice their mother brings them. Before long the kittens are flinging the dead mice around and pouncing on them. It's a good idea to stand clear of them when they're at this stage. You might get smacked by a flying mouse if you don't!

After awhile, the mother starts bringing mice that are still half alive and releases them for the kittens to practice. Very soon the kittens are leaping on and flinging these mice around as confidently as they did the previous dead ones their mother brought them. Then, mother start bringing live, healthy mice and releases them for the kittens to practice on. The first time the mother cat releases a live mouse, and it tries to run off, there's immediate bedlam among the kittens. Wildly excited, the kittens flying around trying to leap onto the running mouse zigging and zagging between them. If the mouse escapes the kittens, the mother will usually swat it back into play. By this time the kittens are so over excited they're leaping at anything that moves. The mouse, a blade of grass, a blowing leaf or even each other, are all fair game to the kittens. Not surprisingly, the mouse often escapes during these early lessons.

As the lessons progress the kittens become more discriminating in their targets and develop their skills in catching the quick and agile mice. These lessons don't always go smoothly. One kitten got the surprise of her life when a large mouse she was chasing suddenly sat up in front of her and began scolding her at the top of its lungs. The mouse was apparently so fed up with the whole business that it actually jumped at the kitten. The startled kitten fell over backward and the mouse raced off to safety. Live and learn.

Eventually, the mother cat will decide that the kittens are ready for their first real hunt. She will take them out to a good location that she knows will have plenty of mice for the kittens to practice on. She does not demonstrate her hunting technique to the kittens. Instead, lets them develop their own unique styles on these hunting forays. Each kitten discovers the techniques that work best for them. By the end of their lessons the kittens have become fine mousers in their own right.

Author Resource: Written by David Peterson
For more information on cat health issues, visit Jinga's Cat Articles site. Visit also Jinga's Pet Article World.

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Birman Cats

The Legend of the Birman
The Birman cat is a beautiful breed of cat that is believed to have come from the country of Burma, where it was kept as the pet of trusted priests. According to legend, the guardians of Burmese temples were actually cats that had long white hair and yellow eyes. The goddess of the main temple had blue eyes. In this legend, the head priest was killed during an attack and one of the guardian cats placed its paws on him. Suddenly, the cat's white fur became golden and its eyes turned as blue as those of the goddess of the temple. Seven days after this occurred, the guardian cat died.

Birman Cat by Fabio Gismondi

Origin
Aside from the legend, the known history of the Birman cat is that a pair of these cats were shipped from Burma to France in the early 1900s. While the male cat did not survive the journey, the female arrived safely and was actually pregnant at the time of arrival. This established the Birman cat in the western world and the French cat registry began to recognize this cat as a distinct breed in 1925. England and the Cat Fanciers' Association took a bit more time to recognize the breed, with England recognizing it in 1966 and the CFA recognizing it in 1967.

Description and Personality
The Birman cat is often large and long, with long hair. The hair has a silky texture and does not become matted. The face, legs, and tail are darker in color than the rest of the body with seal point, blue point, and chocolate point popular. The Birman cat has pure white feet and a full chin. In terms of personality, the Birman cat is a wonderful pet. If you are busy, the cat will not bother you. If you have time to play, the Birman cat is active and playful. The Birman would make a wonderful pet for people of all ages and adapts well to most households.

Author Resource
Written by Tiki Catson
The Cat Breeds Guide Network is a complete Web site that features all breeds of cats, articles, and links to cat related resources and shopping. Visit http://www.catbreedsguide.com/birman-cats.php today to learn more about Birman cats.

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Cat Therapy – Reasons Why Cats Make Good Therapy Animals

Although they are sometimes out shined by their canine counterpoints, cats often make some of the best therapy animals. With their warm soft fur, meditative yogic poses, and relaxing purr, the health benefits of using cats as therapy animals is quite impressive. Here are six reasons why more and more people, nursing home facilities, and hospitals are recruiting cats as therapy animals.

Relaxin' with the Kitties by Joi Ito

1. Cats make your heart happy. Research has shown repeatedly the effects of cats on easing blood pressure. Researchers have time and again conducted studies in which participants are connected to blood pressure and heart monitors as they pet cats, and the results have been impressive. Petting a cat can reduce your blood pressure, slow your heart rate, and create feelings of well-being and comfort. Individuals with high blood pressure can benefit greatly from spending time with a loving cat. Some studies indicate that simply petting a cat for a sustained period of time can have a similar effect as conventional medication prescribed to patients with high blood pressure.


2. Cats can help relieve loneliness. Many jokes have been made about elderly women and their affinity for cats, but there is a kernel of truth here. Cats really do help relieve loneliness. Simply watch the eyes of nursing home patients when a cat is brought to visit. Their eyes light up as they pet the cat in their lap. The feeling of petting their soft fur is immensely soothing, and the antics of 'clown cats' can result in quite an entertaining visit. Cats can be an important part of the lives of their elderly caretakers. For some, their relationship with their cat is the single most important thing in their life. The power of loving companionship to ease stress and loneliness is invaluable and immeasurable.

Also, it has been shown that cats are often quite valuable therapy animals in working with Alzheimer's patients. The act of holding and petting a cat has been shown to trigger memories in patients who are otherwise incapable of recalling certain memories.

1. Petting or brushing long hair cats can be great physical therapy for individuals with muscle disorders. Recently, long hair cats have been used with patients suffering from muscle conditions. The act of brushing a cat's thick coat can help to slowly increase flexibility and ease muscle and joint stiffness. Not only is brushing a cat's hair good for exercising certain muscles, it is also quite relaxing. The best type of cat for this type of pet therapy is said to be the long hair Persian breed.


2. Cats can help troubled youth and mental health patients who live in facilities establish healthy, non-judgmental relationships. Cats have recently been used in facilities that help troubled teens learn important life skills. Having a house pet such as a cat can help young adults learn responsibility. A loving cat can also help troubled teens establish a stable, healthy relationship. For some, this can constitute the most stable relationship in their life. Cats are also used in mental health facilities to provide its residents with a source of companionship and friendship, as well as to help teach responsibility. For some, their relationship with a cat can be life transforming.


3. The singular power of the fur and the purr. Although dogs have made excellent pet therapy animals for decades, there is nothing quite as relaxing as the luxurious fur of a cat. As most cat lovers will attest, it just begs to be combed and petted. Cat's coats tend to be much softer and thicker than dog's. The texture of a cat's coat evokes feelings of pleasure, relaxation, and well being.

The unmistakable purr of the feline is another important aspect of why cats make good pet therapy animals. A cat's purr has long been associated with feelings of relaxation, warmth, and comfort. Indeed, researchers have begun doing research on the effects of a cat's purring on their owners. A cat's purr is also being credited with helping perennial insomniacs finally catch some shut-eye. In fact, a recording of a cat's soft purr is currently being marketed to individuals who have trouble falling asleep. The creators of the recording claim that the sound of a cat's purr can help almost anyone achieve a good night's rest.

Author Resource: Written by David Peterson
For the secrets to a well trained cat, visit The House of Jinga Cat Secrets site. Visit also Jinga's Pet Article World.

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Two Unusual Cats

Are you considering a new cat for the house? Great! If you are a cat lover, you might want to look at a purebred cat. There are numerous breeds that may be found in this country, each with its own distinguishing appearance, disposition and history. Consider carefully what characteristics you'd like to see in your new furry friend. Maybe you would like to look at something a little bit different:

The Munchkin

Short Haired Munchkin by Terri Harris

When you think about the Munchkin, think of a cat that has the build of a dachshund. A cat built like this has a long body and short legs. Munchkins are a breed very recently developed. They've only been around since 1983. The original cat was a female named Blackberry. She was rescued from dogs by a school teacher named Sandra Hochenedel. Blackberry was a black cat with very short legs. As she was found pregnant, her unusual body type was passed on to her kittens. Blackberry's son, Toulouse, was left un-neutered and before long, there were quite a number of short legged cats living around his owner's home. Curiously enough, Toulouse and his short legged sons had little trouble competing with standard toms for females.

In 1990 a study of the genetics of these short legged cats was conducted. The study found that only a single copy of the short legged gene was required to produce more cats with the same characteristic. The spines of these cats were also examined because there were fears that they would have issues like the low, long bodies some dogs (e.g. dachshund) have. Though no problems were found at that time, judgment was reserved due to the extremely small population that existed at that time.

Munchkins were given their name for the little people in Wizard of Oz that Dorothy encountered when she first arrived in Oz. Breeders became interested in the offbeat little Munchkin and began controlled breeding programs. The Munchkin was first introduced to the world at the Madison Square Garden Cat Show. The breed has since faced some resistance. There are those who believe that purposely breeding for a mutation, even one that came about naturally, is ethically wrong. The cats themselves seem unaware that they are different in any way from their long legged cousins. They are self-assured, outgoing and curious by nature. Munchkins tend to be people-oriented and bond easily with their people. Munchkins pounce and play just like other cats. The only difference is they can't jump as high due to their short back legs.

The Sphynx

Hairless Sphynx Cat by The Pug Father

If you ever marveled what a cat would look like au naturel, look no further. The Sphynx is nearly hairless. Fatty oils secreted by the skin are usually channeled to the fur in other breeds. The Sphynx necessitates regular wiping down to remove these oils and prevent skin infections.

This breed sprang up in 1975 as a spontaneous mutation in a shorthaired litter. One hairless kitten was born in that litter. She was named Epidermis. The next year a hairless male was born. He was called Dermis. When bred to normal shorthaired cats, Epidermis produced normal kittens. When Epidermis was bred to one of her sons, three hairless kittens resulted. The hairless gene was a recessive. Both parents must carry it in order for hairlessness to be expressed.

The breed was named after the great Sphynx monument of Egypt. The Sphynx cats are devoted, loyal companions, who love attention and will purr happily if their favorite person is near them. They are very athletic and like to leap to high places or hang upside down from their climbing trees. Sphynx have strong personalities and don't like being left alone. A feline companion will help to keep a Sphynx happy and occupied while you are gone.

These very unique cats are not everyone's ideal cat. Give these very unusual cats a closer look. Their unusual appearances and lively personalities may make a great pet. These cats might be exactly what you are looking for in a new companion.

Author Resource
Written by David Peterson
For more information on cat health issues, visit Jinga's Cat Article site. Visit also Jinga's Pet Article World.
For information on cat breeds visit the House of Jinga
For all your cat needs go to the I Really Love Cats store.

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Siamese Cats are a Breed Apart

Cats have long been one of man’s most constant companions. In the past cats were often kept in houses where they served an invaluable role in controlling household pests. In contemporary times, cats continue to be a favored house pet due to their intelligence, low maintenance, and warm personalities. There are many popular breeds of cats, but Siamese cats are among the most recognizable and popular.

Where are the Cat Books? by Cora Rónai

Siamese cats originated in Southeast Asia, although the exact origins of the breed are unknown. It was not until the twentieth century that Siamese cats became popular in western cultures. Today, Siamese cats are among the most popular breeds of cats in the world, and it is no wonder.

The appeal of Siamese cats begins with their stately and unique appearance. Their streamlined shape, striking facial features, almond-shaped eyes, and contrasting colors give Siamese cats a distinctive look that is different from any other breed. But Siamese cats are more than just a pretty face; they are renowned for their personalities as well.

Siamese cats are considered to be among the most social and extroverted of all breeds. They are warm and affectionate and often bond strongly to their owners. Consequently, Siamese cats are less independent than other cats and enjoy the confines of home with their owners. Siamese cats are also known for their distinctively loud, low-pitched voice.

Despite their high intelligence, Siamese cats are not necessarily easy to train. While some cats may heed your instructions from the very beginning, others may have a more inquisitive nature that leads them into mischief. However, it is rare that Siamese cats scratch furniture, and it is likely that they will prefer a carpet or scratching post to your precious sofa. But it is equally likely that you’ll occasionally find your Siamese cat perched on top of your bookcases or even your refrigerator. You would be wise to keep any breakable items off the top shelf!

Siamese cats should always be purchased from a reputable breeder. Good breeders will ensure that your cat has pure bloodlines, proper inoculations, and have developed their physical and social abilities enough to make the adjustment to a new home and owner.

About the Author
Written by Michelle Bery
For easy to understand, in-depth information about Siamese cats visit our ezGuide 2 Cats.

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Too Many Cats?

Cats are becoming increasingly popular as pets these days, and a big question is, how many cats should a family have? For some people, one is more than enough; others have half a dozen or more. Here are some sure-fire ways to know when you've reached your limit.

Cat House by Megan Morris

You know you have too many cats when:

• Your annual cat food bill is more than the combined Gross National Product of Liechtenstein, Andorra, and San Marino.
• Your last three cats are named Puss, Kitty-cat, and Hey You.
• You and your spouse are sleeping on the floor because there's no more room in the bed.
• The cleaning lady at the vet's office calls you by your first name.
• All your windowsills are occupied.
• Your neighbors forget your last name and start referring to you as "you know, the cat people".
• You have to change the vacuum cleaner bags every week.
• You're running out of corners to put litter boxes in.
• Even your coffee table has a slip cover.
• The most important crop in your garden every year is catnip.
• You can't remember what a house plant looks like.
• Flea collars smell good to you.
• You actually understand what your cats are saying.
• More than half your mail comes from Purina and Friskies.
• Every year you get a personally autographed Christmas card from Morris.
• Your cat door has been replaced three times.
• For Mothers Day last year the kids pooled their money and bought you an electric cat brush.
• You thought it was the perfect gift.

Copyright 1998

About the Author: Kathie Freeman is the author of Catwalk, a Feline Odyssey, and a long-time cat person who has been owned by as many as 13 cats at once, simultaneously, and at the same time. For more of her articles and short stories visit Kathie's Stories and Tails at http://home.att.net/~kathiefreeman/

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Caring for Long Haired Cats

Long haired breeds of cats such as Maine Coons, Persians and Ragdolls need a little extra TLC from their owners than other short haired breeds. In the natural world it is unlikely that cats with coats too long for them to maintain themselves would have survived, however selective breeding of domestic cats over hundreds of years has allowed many breeds to develop long, flowing coats that require some human help to keep in tip top condition.

Brushing a Long Haired Cat by Jon Ross

Long haired cats should be groomed daily to keep their coats free from knots, matting and a build up of dead hair. This is a simple and quick process if done regularly before knots can build up, and you should be able to pass a brush through your cat's coat easily without causing any stress to your cat. You will need a high quality grooming kit which should consist of several brushes and combs for different purposes.

• Long Toothed Comb - for general grooming. Work the comb from tip to root to untangle the hair.
• Narrow Toothed Comb - for teasing out knots, or removing fleas.
• Trimming Scissors - you may need scissors to remove stubborn knots or matting. To do this safely, place a comb underneath the knot to protect your cat's skin and cut out the knot. Trimming scissors can also be used to remove excess hair from around your cat's anus if it is interfering with their toilet habits.
• Wire, Rubber or Bristle Brush - for removing dead hair and generally conditioning the coat. You should use this brush or the long toothed comb most often for grooming.
• Soft Cloth - used damp to clean your cat's face, especially around the eye area.

There are also many other types of specialist grooming tools available, such as shedding blades, clippers and even hand held grooming vacuums that gently suck away dead hair and dander (dead skin). Different cats will tolerate or even enjoy different grooming tools, so you may have to experiment to find a method and routine that your cat is happy with.

You should start grooming your cat from as early as possible, to get them used to the tools and actions. If your cat really hates being brushed, try out a special grooming glove which can tease out dead hair simply while you stroke.

Some pet owners choose to keep long haired cats indoors, to prevent their hair from getting excessively dirty or knotted while outside. If your cat does get into a bit of a mess, give them a bath using a special cat shampoo, taking care to avoid getting soapy water in their ears, eyes, mouth or nose. After bathing, towel dry your cat to remove all excess water and then blow dry with a hairdryer set on a low heat.

Kitty's First Bath by Maggie Osterberg

Grooming your cat regularly isn't needed just to keep your cat looking great - it is also important for their health. Like all cats, long haired breeds spend a lot of time grooming themselves, however ingesting a large amount of hair can cause excessive hairballs and blockages in their digestive tract. Matted fur can also cause a great deal of discomfort to your cat, since the hair is pulled tighter as the knot worsens. Severe matting can result in skin irritation or even infection if not treated.

If you are grooming your cat at least twice a week it should take no more than a few minutes to restore your cat's coat to a silky soft sheen, which is highly preferably to wrestling with knots or tangles on a cat that hasn't been brushed in days or weeks. Take the time to groom your cat regularly to prevent serious problems building up.

Not only is spending time grooming your cat the responsible thing to do, but it can also be a great way to bond with your cat.

All cats needs a nutritious and balanced diet to keep them healthy, and good coat condition starts from the inside. There are some specialty cat foods available for long haired cats. These foods are high in the nutrients needed to keep your cat's coat looking healthy and shiny, as well as for aiding in the elimination of hairballs.

Shower your long haired cat with a little extra grooming attention and they will thank you for it by leaving less shed hair around your home, and letting you run your hands over their silky soft fur.

Author Resource:
Tom Woodcock is a cat Lover and regularly helps out a local rescue centers. To learn more about Cat Supplies Cat accessories and pet Cats visit him online.

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Abyssinian Cats

The first Abyssinian cat known to have been brought out of its natural environment to be a domestic pet in the West was Zula, a female kitten taken from Alexandria to the UK in the 1860s by the British soldier Captain Barrett Leonard. He crossed Zula with a tabby, then bred her with the most Abyssinian looking of her own young to create the breed. By 1871 the breed was recognized and exhibited at the Crystal Palace in London.

Abyssinian Buddies by Cornelia

Although it is possible that other soldiers may also have brought home cats during the Abyssinian War, it is generally believed that all Abyssinians in Europe, North America and Australia are descended from Zula. The gene pool has been enriched a little in the USA with the import of one or two other Abyssinians from North Africa, where they can still be found living wild in some regions.

The 'Aby', as this breed is popularly known, is now one of the most popular shorthair pedigree breeds of cat in the USA.

Appearance
The Abyssinian is a medium sized, well shaped shorthaired cat with a princely appearance and a distinctively ticked coat. What this means is that each hair is striped with two different colors alternating in bands from root to tip. The effect is to give the coat a noticeable sparkle, especially when stroked.

The coat is usually a warm tawny color but there are blue and silver variants. The recognized color classifications vary from country to country, but in the US they include red, ruddy, fawn, cream, blue and lilac. To qualify for pedigree status the cat's body must have no tabby markings, although there are usually some on the tail and paws.

Abys have large ears and big almond-shaped eyes. The eyes are green, gold or hazel with a fine dark line around the iris.

Temperament
Abys are very active, muscular cats whose closeness to their wild ancestors can easily be seen in their temperament and behavior. They are friendly and affectionate and make great pets but usually spend more time playing and exploring than curling up on somebody's knees. Often, they will adopt one person in the family to be their special favorite. It is not necessarily the person who loves them the most!

They like a lot of activity, variety and attention and can become depressed if left shut in a small apartment all day while owners are working. They often enjoy getting up in high places and will climb trees, explore the top of tall furniture and climb onto your shoulders!

Owners describe Abyssinian cats as intelligent and loyal 'people cats'. Many owners would never consider having any other breed of cat.

Author Resource
Written by David Peterson
More information on cat breeds can be found here at the House of Jinga Cat Facts. You can also find info about the Abyssinian cat breed here.

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Make Your Life Easier With Cat Toilet Training

So many of us assume that we only have two options as to where we can teach our dear cat to go to the bathroom: Give them a litter box to use that needs to be cleaned every other day, or send them outside which will require you to build a fence or keep a constant watch on them to avoid them getting into danger. The truth is that you can also choose option 3: teach them to use your household toilet, or cat toilet training.

Toilet-trained Cat by Caitlin Burke

Yes, it seems a little strange imagining how you can go about teaching your dear old cat, or younger kitten to jump up on the toilet. But people all over have been using cat toilet training to get the messy, smelly litter box out of their house forever.

You can do so with relative ease by using your imagination, or by purchasing commercial cat toilet training kits that are designed to make the process simple.

This type of training is best done when your cat is young, not long after litter box training, but can be done at any age. The basic principal revolves around having the cat get used to using a litter box, then using the fact that they're trained to do their business in cat litter to slowly lure them to the toilet.

Most cat toilet training kits usually come with three color coded rings i.e., red, yellow and blue. The final ring used will be a white one, which should match your own toilet seat. You can place litter in the rings to start with -- the first ring will have only a small hole to expose the water in your toilet and each ring will expose more and more water to the cat. You can expect training to last 6 - 8 weeks, but it will be well worth it in the end.

Author Resource
Written by James Lunden
Find out more on cat toilet training and read many interesting articles on pet health.

Source: http://www.PopularArticles.com/article242865.html

Should My Cat Be Grooming Itself So Much?

Grooming is a very natural behavior in cats. You will often watch your cat sitting in the corner just going to town licking and grooming itself, another cat, or even the family dog. However, there are instances where cats get a little exuberant about licking. They may even start grooming you, which some people want to discourage.

Cat Grooming Itself by ex.libris

There are a number of reasons that you may want to discourage your cat from grooming himself. One of the major reasons is if your cat is injured or recovering from surgery. If you get your cat neutered or spayed, your cat may be tempted to lick the wound clean. The problem is that your cat does not necessarily know when to stop, and he or she can end up removing stitches or causing further injury.

If your cat is injured or recovering, you can purchase several topical products to help prevent licking. Discuss the products with your vet to make sure that they will not cause any further irritation to the wound, and then apply the product to the affected area. Many of these products have a nasty flavor that discourages your cat from licking the wound.

Another way to prevent your cat from licking any wounds is to use a bandage. In certain areas of the body, a bandage will completely keep your cat from licking the affected area. However, bandages often pose a challenge to your cat, and he or she may go after the area with fervor.

If you have tried bandaging and topical ointments, you may end up having to put the dreaded cone on your cat.

This is a collar that forms a cone around your cat’s head. Your cat will look funny, and he or she will probably be fairly humiliated, but it will keep your cat from licking the affected area. Just make sure you move breakables out of the way, and keep an eye on your cat. The cone collar will throw off your cat’s balance and ability to maneuver certain areas. Your cat will become clumsy for a while.

Another reason why you may want to prevent your cat’s licking behavior is if it is causing injury to itself. Some cats will lick and lick until their fur starts to fall out and they form sores. Excessive licking is a result of food allergies, anxiety, stress, and other items. Stopping the excessive licking is not always about deterring behavior.

If there is a medical reason, you need to see the vet. Even if you are not sure, you should check with your vet first to rule out any medical issues.

If your cat is licking excessively out of stress, anxiety, or other psychological reasons, deterrents like sprays or ointments will not do anything to decrease the stress. In fact, it may even increase the problem. Therefore, you need to find the root of the problem to solve it.

For instance, a cat may be licking excessively, because it feels like it is low on your priority list. To stop the licking, you may just have to devote some extra time to your cat each day where it is just your time to play. By giving your cat your undivided attention, you may stop your cat from licking.

If you are confused about what issues your cat may have, you may want to contact a professional. Discuss the issues with your vet. If he or she cannot help you solve the problem, the vet will probably know some cat experts that will know what to do.

About the Author
Written by Michael Moyssidis
For more information about Cat Grooming and more cat care training tips visit http://catcareinfosite.com/catcare.html

Article Source: http://www.affsphere.com/Pets-and-Animals/Cats-Training-Behavior/Should-My-Cat-Be-Grooming-Itself-So-Much.html

The Burmese Cat

The first Burmese cat is well known and dates back to the 1930's. Its name was Wong Mau. After a long breeding period of using the Siamese cat, the Burmese was established as a breed. There are four recognized colors by Cat Fanciers Association; sable, champagne, blue and platinum.

Burmese Cats Cuddling by Sue Tupling

Having been a dog lover all my life, I never dreamed I would end up with a cat. We were on vacation and met some friends of our family who had a Burmese cat. I love all animals and this was a sable color Burmese. I picked it up from sleeping on a bed and immediately noticed how heavy it was. They are very heavily muscled cats and are often described as a brick wrapped in silk. I picked this cat up and it just laid its head on my shoulder as if I were its caretaker.

When we got home I had to learn more about this cat that I had never heard of. We did some searching and here is what we found.

1. They originated from Burma back in the 1930's.
2. They are a very heavy cat for their size.
3. They are described as dog-like because of the following:
   A. They like to fetch a ball.
   B. They like to ride in the car if introduced at a young age.
   C. They like other dogs.
   D. They will lick your face.
   E. Some will seem to communicate with soft talk-like noises.
4. Easy to groom.
5. Good with children.
6. They stay very playful into adulthood.

They have a short coat so they are easy to groom. Their eyes are large and very telling when they look at you and they do like to look at their owners. They love to be held.

We did find a Burmese and named him Sid. He is a year old now and exhibits some cat behaviors you would never expect from a cat. He does love to be held. In fact lately if I get close to him, he will sit up and put his paws on me wanting up. I thought it would be cute to say do you want up, up, up and now he jumps to get in my arms, sometimes from a little too far and I end up with an unintended scratch.

They are very playful as kittens and adults. They become very intelligent and become their own cat as they mature. They can take over the household and in our case, Sid rules. We had two dogs when we brought SID home and they both jump when he says jump. Sid is a very curious cat as most are and wants to always be right in the middle of whatever you’re doing. He is fascinated by smell and must smell everything you are about to put in your mouth.

He loves paper and will jump into the cupboard if you give him a chance. In this breed the male is more laid back and loves the lap of any person he trusts. Females tend to be more aggressive. Sid loves our longhaired Dachshund, they are best friends but sometimes the thought of a feline type friend seems appealing.

This cat has turned at least this dog lover into a sometimes cat enthusiast.

Author Resource: Michael Michael is a Respiratory Therapist, now disabled working in Internet Marketing, writing articles and building websites. http://www.sidcitykitty.com

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