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Thursday, April 1, 2010

About Cat Breeds - The Popular And The Unusual

Given that adopting a cat is a significant commitment - they live for an average of 15 years - it makes sense to learn more about cat breeds before you buy. Two extremely popular purebreds are the Siamese and the Persian, although both of these have characteristics that may make them unsuitable choices for some people. Fortunately, there are a large number of other breeds to choose from, many of them less well known. Two of these less recognized breeds actually give hope to feline loving allergy sufferers, as they have a low-allergy coat and are generally well tolerated.

Although not as popular as they once were, Siamese cats have many loyal fans, and for good reason. They are extremely beautiful and intelligent, although modern breeding practices have introduced an unhealthy leaning towards an overly triangular head shape. Siamese are very vocal, however, which can be a problem for some people, as they may be a little bit determined in putting their views across. This is not a cat for the owner who doesn't have a lot of time to spend with their pet, as Siamese are very people-oriented. They love attention, and they love interacting with their owners. They will follow them from room to room, and are naturally very curious and mischievous when bored.

Unlike Siamese, Persian cats are very even-tempered. They get along well with other dogs and animals, and integrate well in multi-cat households. They also tolerate children well. The biggest drawback - and also their most striking feature - is their amazing coat. A Persian's coat needs daily brushing. It mattes easily, and cats need to be sedated to have their coats clipped, so keeping their long coat in good shape needs to be a priority for Persian owners.

The Siberian cat, or croshca, is another long haired feline. It requires less grooming than the Persian, and needs to be brushed only two or three times a week instead of daily. Their coat is different too. Surviving in the deep cold of a Russian winter, the croshca has a waterproof, slightly oil coat. Siberian cats are very playful, and affectionate. Like the Siamese, they grow very attached to their owners, so this is something to keep in mind when selecting a breed. The Siberian is one possibility for those with cat allergies, as their coats are believed to be hypoallergenic.

Devon rex cats are another option for those allergic to cats. They have a very thin, soft, slightly crinkly coat that sheds very little. The coat itself is also hypoallergenic. Be warned however - devon rex are extremely playful and mischievous. They are also very fond of food, and have been known to be quite resourceful in finding it even when hidden away. The devon rex is very affectionate, and another people-oriented cat that will follow you around and 'help' with chores.

Feline breeds all have their own distinctive characteristics. This is something to keep in mind as you learn about cat breeds before you buy. Do you have children or other pets? How much time do you want to spend with a cat, and does your work schedule allow it? Getting two cats together (if you don't already have one) is never a bad idea as it provides companionship for both. But some cats still demand more of their humans than others do, though they often give at least as much back.

If you'd like more cat breed information, click here. Rebecca writes on topics like cat urine here.

Hypoallergenic Cats For Cat Allergies

Are there hypoallergenic cats to help with you with your cat allergies?
There is a common misconception that hypoallergenic cats or dogs mean allergy free but there are no allergy free cats or dogs. Hypoallergenic means less allergenic not allergy free. Cat allergies are caused by a protein in cat saliva and skin. As cats are constantly grooming themselves the protein gets on cat fur. The microscopic particles are easily airborne and can migrate quickly through out a house. Common cat allergy symptoms are itchy eyes, wheezing, runny nose, and coughing. The protein causes a allergic reaction when the immune system over reacts which leads to excess histamines.

Some people find they have less allergic reactions around Siberian cats and they are often referred to as being hypoallergenic cats. Siberian cats are a distinct breed, long haired and known for their jumping ability. The Siberian cat is relatively new to North America and there is little scientific evidence as to whether they are hypoallergenic or not. They are however intelligent and have the loyalty of dogs which is perhaps responsible for their popularity.

There are hypoallergenic cats which seem to cause fewer allergies even though they are the same breed as cats that seem to cause allergic reactions. This is do to the fact that some cats are born with a genetic rarity and they have far lower levels of the fel D1 protein that is responsible for cat allergies. A company called Allerca breed these cats that are genetically rare to produce hypoallergenic cats. Though testing and finding these rare cats is not easy since only around 1 in 50,000 cats are born with this genetic rarity. The initial cost for each kitten was $4,000. Science is also working on better ways to block histamines so that those who love cats but have allergies will be able to live in harmony with their pets.


To discover natural methods that could treat your Cat Allergies or discover other Natural Allergy Cures visit http://naturalallergycures.net

Siberian Cats

Siberian Cats are large and muscular with broad heads, large slanted eyes and rounded ears that angle outwards. Originally from Russia, this breed has plumed tails, longer neck ruffs and double coats.

Characteristics
This breed is known to be exceptionally high jumpers, with strong hindquarters and large stomachs. The males typically weigh in at 15 to 20 lbs, and females weigh in at 10 to 15 lbs. Even though they are similar in weight to Main Coon and Norwegian Forest Cats, they are shorter and stockier. It takes the Siberian Cat over 5 years to reach their full adult size.

Siberian fur is medium-long and plush, with a thick insulating under coat and a waterproof top coat. This fur has a tendency to mat, so it needs to be groomed frequently. Brown tabby is the most common color, however, a wide range of other tabby colors are available along with tortie, especially among those bred in America. Russian breeders are intent on keeping this breeds wild look, so they only accept brown and red-based coat colors.

Some breeders and pet owners claim the Siberian cats fur is hypoallergenic, however there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. Yet this breed does produce less of the primary allergen present on cats.

Temperament
Siberian cats are intelligent, friendly, and loyal. In fact they are so loyal that they are sometimes described at dog-like in character. This breed of cat seems to be particularly happy outdoors.

Brief History
The Siberian developed from household and farm cats in Russia. There are Russian paintings and literature dating back hundreds of years depicting this breed. However, this breed was more or less unknown outside of Russia until the 1980s when it was first registered in St. Petersburg. They were not introduced to the United States until the 1990s. Today Siberian Cats, although relatively rare, are very popular and recognized around the world and accepted in all registries.

Care and grooming of Siberian Cats ought to be kept up as any other house cat, frequent combing of fur, good nutrition, regular play and veterinary visits. For more information on care and feeding of our furry pets, visit: lovefatcats.com

Monday, March 1, 2010

18 Cat Questions and Answers

Can you achieve your cat/kitten sick whether you are sick? similar to enjoy a cold or the flu?
i have a 9 week old kitten and a year and a half outdated cat and i am currently sick with a cold or flu i don't know which one. but i want to make sure that whether i am playing/cuddling with them i wont get them...

Can you administer isotonic drinks to cats?
Isotonic drinks are used to rehydrate your body correct? Can cats/ kittens consume them (of course you let the gas out...)?

Can you assist me compare Tonkinese and Burmese cats?
I have two tonkinese cats and would like another but I've seen an advert for a burmese cat close to me and I'm wondering how the breeds differ?I know that tonks are a cross between siamese and burmese but don't know which parts of their personality are...

Can you back explain why my cat hass suddenly gone Psycho on my daughter?
I have 2 year old healthy, feminine cat and have had her since she was a kitten. She is terrifically healthy and up to date on her shots as well. Her general self-image is loving and playful but stubborn to a typical cat. She does seem not...

Can you breed a purebred Siberian husky beside papers to one who doesn't but is purebred and register the litter?
Me and my Husband got a Siberian husky earlier in the week (she have papers) and we didn't get the one we originally wanted and the other people that get the other one said that they had a purebred intact male at home and they feel so...

Do you meditate that my cats are trying to take even next to me for getting them fixed?
They have a had a funny look on their face since I get home from surgery, they seem to be grinning at me with a twinkle surrounded by their eye now that I have been fixed too. The fattest one seem to be trying to trip me...

Do you mull over a lint roller would work to carry the cat curls out of my shirt?
He jumped in when I wasn't looking and rolled around on the normal dry cycle for 60 minutes.very soon there's cat hair embedded in the unbroken load. It's my favorite shirt and I don't want to throw it out. Any suggestions??

Do you mull over it is unusual that me and my Cat are close to brothers?
He is not a kitten. We sleep in the same room when i am home, he curls up right subsequent to me on the bed. When he is ready to get up he will wake me up. OR when i rouse up the first...

Do you mull over My cat loves me?
She always follows me around in the house,She loves to jump on my knees and demand a tummy rub,And she loves to rub and lick my face.Is that love? or does she want somthing?

How can i give an account whether my Female Cat is surrounded by warmth?
She almost never lets me pick her up but how can i tell That she's contained by heat,She is a Stray that i found outside since outside she could gain pregnant by another Cat and She let me pick her up all the way domestic but i...

How can I give support to my cat adjust to her spanking new domestic?
I have two cats that I am trying to introduce to a new situation, I also have a black lab. One cat is exceedingly laid back and is adjusting just fine, you would presume she's always been here, the other however, is very timid around any...

How can I give support to my friend grieve for her cat?
My roommate from college had to put down her cat today. I really didn't like this cat, but my friend mode a lot to me and I want to give her something that doesn't scream sympathy (like ashen roses, a card, etc).I don't have any pictures of...

How can I go and get cat fur out of my motor?
The upholstery on my car seats are dark grey and they are covered surrounded by cat fur. I assume it transfers from my clothes to my car seats but it is impossible to get it stale and the more I vacuum the more it seems to come...

How can I go and get my cat to approaching my dog?
My Calico cat used to be able to live with my dog Buddy in musical tones.I mean when he was a puppy he would chase her a little but but eventually get over that. Then we adopted Jake off the street and he chases her and she...

How can i go and get my cat to gain shipment?
She eats but she is still really skinny... i believe that she may be anorexic - is it possible that she might have worms?

How can I go and get my neighbors cat to stop using our sandbox as a liter box?
I live in Germany so we don't have petco's or petsmart's, other wise i would acquire that spray that keeps them away. Is there any other alternative? We enjoy a fence but it still seems to get though.

My cat have scabs that look similar to dried up blood i entail answers please?
My cat has scab like sores on her body, right now there's nearly 3 maybe 4. There about little bigger than a dime. Sometimes they look like a scab which possibly dried up blood. And one time there wasn't a scab it was just her out skin....

My cat have sesame pip looking things that she leaves when she sleeps?
i read online that it is a tapeworm. my cat was not in a good domestic when i got her as a kitten. she had worms and fleas, which she still has. i hold spent hundreds of dollars on her at the vet and they can never...


More Cat and Pets Q&A Please visit : PetsAsk.com

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Cats Q&A ALL FOR FREE!

4 Steps to Litter Training Your Cat at Any Age (and What to Avoid)

Is your cat ignoring the litter box and instead peeing and pooping on the floor, your bed, your bathtub, or anywhere else they shouldn't be?

It's annoying isn't it?
I should know, because my 4 year old Siberian, Rollo spent months urinating everywhere but the litterbox. We changed litters, added 4 more litterboxes...and still he went everywhere but the litterbox. It was costing a fortune in carpet cleaning and was extremely embarrassing when visitors came round.

The truth is, you can train your kitty to use the litterbox and it's easy when you know how.

The first secret is getting your kitty used to the litter box and what they should be doing when they are in it. So, you may find it useful to...

Teach them to scratch!
Show your kitty how to scratch their paws in a fresh new litterbox by helping them do it. Obviously use gloves, and don't make contact with your cat. If you don't like the idea, here's another technique I found very useful...

The 2 Week Isolation Rule
I personally isolate new kitties for at least 2 weeks in a single room with food, water and litterbox. However, try to avoid bathrooms or cleaning agents that have a strong odor, as your cat will recognize this as a "clean place" and will further drive him/her away from "doing business".

Finally, here's one more trick which works very well when training your cat to use the litter box...

Spaying or neutering
Spraying or neutering your kitty at 5-6 months may help you to prevent your cat from marking their territory outside the litter box. This should get them to stay inside their litter box and get used to using it too.

And here's one more thing you might find helpful...

As a final note to training, declawing your cat greatly increases the risk that your cat will not use a litterbox. I've seen statistics as high as 50% of declawed cats with litterbox problems.

Remember to use these tips to get your cat to use the litter box at any age.

It may take some patience using some of these methods, but they are definately proven to be effective in many people's experience! However, for more information and even quicker methods to litter training your cat, then keep reading...


About the Author

Isn't it time you discovered why most cat training aids don't work, and how to get inside your cat's mind and quickly teach them perfect behaviour from any age?
Well, right now, you can discover these secrets for free, with my 9 part guide to perfect cat behaviour at http://cattrainingtricks.com
There, you'll discover many easy ways to end cat litter box problems for good, plus so much more...http://cattrainingtricks.com/

Having Bother Keeping Your Cat Off The Kitchen Counter? Try These 7 Useful Tips

I don't know about you but I have an exquisite pair of siberian cats, but I had terrible hassle keeping them off the kitchen counter. Talking to a number of my cat-loving friends, we all agreed that it was a common drawback and was proving tough to remedy. We all agreed it had been necessary that the cats ought to be banned from the kitchen counter for a number of reasons, you see not only for hygiene functions, however additionally as a means to set boundaries for your cat too. I have done a little research and found some sound solutions. So if you are facing this common drawback here are seven very helpful ways to keep your cat off the kitchen counter.

Electronic Alarm..Some pet corporations sell motion activated alarms that are designed to keep pets faraway from certain areas. One of these on your counter should do the trick.

Aluminum foil..Cats extremely dislike walking on aluminum foil and will do their best to avoid it. Some clever strategic places of this stuff laid on your counter when not in use can stop the majority of cats.

Studded Plastic Mat..Some plastic mats designed to be laid on the floor have a studded plastic back. Lay one of these on your counter...the other way up, and you'll find that your cat can not want to tread on the plastic studs.

Squirt Bottle..This is quite effective and works for me, but you have got to be present when your cat is walking on the kitchen top..squirt your cat with a squirt bottle. Cats extremely hate getting wet, and they will usually back down with just the threat of getting wet.

Raise Your Voice..Raising your voice when you see them on the kitchen counter is quite effective too. It ought to scare them down. They must know this is often an area they're not allowed.

Remove Food from Countertops..Yes, bin or remove any scraps of food or something that will tempt them..doing this will take away any reason why your cats would need to be on top of the counter in the primary place.

Lock 'Em Out...Of the Kitchen! If all else fails and you are pulling your hair out, it would possibly be best simply to lock them out of the kitchen if you cannot be around to observe them.

So I hope you find the following pointers to keep your cat off your kitchen countertop useful, it actually has worked for me.


About the Author

Carmel writes about health, food and childrens issues. If you like this article, please visit her latest diversions at http://www.navysealwatchshop.net which features advice and tips on finding the best navy seal watch

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

The Big Cat Tiger

Tyger! Tyger! Burning bright
In the forests of the night,
What immortal hand or eye
Could frame thy fearful symmetry?...

William Blake's 'The Tyger' is the most anthologized poem in all of English literature. Lord of the Jungle, tiger has captured human imagination through ages unlike any other creature.

Largest amongst all existing cats, tiger compares in size to the biggest feline fossils ever found. Named 'Panthera Tigris', tigers are characterized by their orange coat and black stripes, the pattern of which uniquely identifies each individual tiger. With a whitish belly, tiger's coat is designed to disperse their outline, aiding them in camouflage as they stalk their prey. Tigers generally weigh in a wide range - from two hundred and fifty to eight hundred pounds - depending on the individual subspecies and gender of the animal. Female Sumatran Tigers may weigh around two hundred seventy pounds, whereas adult male Siberian Tigers can be as heavy as eight hundred pounds. In fact the largest ever recorded Siberian Tiger in captivity weighed over one thousand pounds! The average length is between 2.5 to 3.5 meters, again subject to variation amongst sub-species.

The reason behind these size variations is evolutionary adaptation of the tiger to varying environments in different regions of the world. The large Amur tiger prowls over huge territories in Siberia, tackling massive prey animals and having to cope with bitter cold - thus evolving into the biggest tiger species with a thick fur. The Bengal Tiger comes next with its notoriety for great ferocity and occasional man-eating in the mangroves of Sundarban (more on that later!). In fact big male Bengal tigers, particularly those in northern India and Nepal, weigh close to the Siberian Tiger. Following are the Indochinese Tiger, Malayan Tiger, South China Tiger and Sumatran Tiger. The other three sub-species - the Caspian Tiger, Balinese Tiger and Javan Tiger have all gone extinct in the past century.

Apex predators, tigers are solitary hunters designed to take down huge prey animals. They are excellent stalkers and display great cunning in patiently pursuing and ambushing their prey. Despite their great size, they can reach speeds up to 60km/hr and leap up to 10 meters. The primary mode of attack is a sudden charge and leap to unbalance the animal. Next they use their muscular forearms to hold down the hunted whilst they severe their spine (or suffocate by crushing the windpipe in case of big animals like gaur and water buffalo) using their long canines and strong jaws. Even still only a fraction of the hunts are a success for the tiger. Therefore it eats a lot during one sitting once it makes a kill (usually every four or five days).

Next it hides the carcass and usually returns to it over the next couple of days to devour the scraps. Usual prey is deer, buffalo, gaur. However a hungry tiger will go for anything from young elephants, rhinos, crocodiles, leopards, bears and even humans. Whereas conflicts between tigers and elephants are rare, tigers have been known to charge and maul Indian bull elephants. A tiger can climb to the back of the elephant in a single leap and viciously attack the tourists atop - as is often chronicled by historians of the British India.

Tigers are territorial animals and mark their domain in the forest by leaving scat and urine trails. Males are very defensive of their region and this frequently leads to conflict between individual tigers, leading to severe injury and even death. A male's territory frequently overlaps those of several females, to which he mates as they come in estrus. Pregnancy lasts for around three and a half months and usually four or five cubs are born. In the wild not all of these survive since the female is often not able to hunt enough to feed all of them as they depend on her for their food until one and a half years of age. Also randomly, other male tigers may kill the cubs to bring the female into heat.

Despite all its magnificence the tale of the tiger has been a sorry one over the past century. Their number in the wild has dwindled from over one hundred thousand to nearly seven thousand today, with the Bengal Tiger having the healthiest population among existing tiger species (thanks largely to an initiative by the Indian Government in the 1970's that led to 'Project Tiger', one of the more successful conservation programs worldwide). Still many are killed annually by poachers for use in Chinese traditional medicines that make ridiculous claim about the aphrodisiac and strengthening abilities of tiger parts - with no scientific evidence to back them. Others are threatened by habitat destruction and ever increasing human populations. Of the others, the South China tiger is in immediate threat of extinction owing to ruthless hunting in the 1960's when it was declared as a 'pest' by the then communist government. Despite the passage of a law protecting them in 1977, the few remaining tigers in China lack genetic biodiversity to sustain them as a specie.

There are glimmers of hope though and NGOs and independent organizations world wide are taking aggressive step to tackle the issue of poaching and establish reserves to sustain tiger population in the wild (which at present is less than their numbers in captivity).

The author is a blogger about cats and an expert on tiger
Learn more about cats by visiting: http://www.ofcats.com