tidy cats coupon: July 2013

Puppy for sale: look for certain things before you buy! By Kyle Bolton

Okay, so you have decided to buy a new puppy but you don?t know how to proceed in this regard? If this is your situation, there are certain things you need to know, especially if you are buying a puppy for sale for the very first time. Having pets, especially dogs is the most common activity today not just because dogs are the most loyal forms of pets, but also because owning a dog is associated with a status symbol now. Many people just love to have dogs and it is better if you have a pet dog in the form of a puppy. A puppy that grows with you will know you well and will be more loyal towards you. So let us have a look at the things you should consider while having a puppy for sale and where you can begin your search for such a puppy.

Decide the dog breed

The first step in having a puppy for sale is to decide its breed. You need to find out the breed that you want to most. Different people have different needs and demands. While some of you might be looking for a dog just to represent your social status, others of you might be looking for a puppy that grows up to provide protection for your home. Therefore, you can first find out your requirements and then decide the breed of a puppy you need.

Begin your search

Now, for this step, you have more than one sources of searching the perfect puppy for sale. Either you can begin your search from the home on the Internet, or can also start searching for the puppy for sale from the nearest pet shops. However, in order to save time, it is preferable if you begin your search from the home on the Internet. At the Family Pet Classifieds, you can find several puppies for sale, some of which might be new and some of which can be old. To make your search extremely simple, you can select a breed and your state and click search. A minute later, you will find several puppies and you can choose from the one you desire.

Never rely on pet shops that obtain animals from "puppy millers"

Now you need to be aware that there is a term called "puppy millers." As a matter of fact, "puppy millers" are someone who are interested in just one thing and that is making money. It is for this reason that pet stores that get puppy for sale from the pet millers will never have healthy puppies. Puppy millers will most often never check the good health of the animals and they will rely more on quantity than the quality. This can be a loss for you and you should therefore take ample care regarding this issue. Check the pet store from which you want to obtain puppy for sale.

While taking care of certain things such as checking the health of the puppies for sale, whether they are fit or not, about their vaccine and everything else, you can get a good quality puppy for sale!

The Important Stages in a Kitten's Life: How Fast Will Your Kitten Grow By Niall Kennedy

Just like having a child, it can be incredibly fulfilling bringing a kitten into your family and watching it grow up. It takes only a year for your cute little kitten to mature into a cat. It can seem hard to believe but it will happen fast. Being prepared is the goal here. So what are the key milestones for a young cat?

The First Moments

Kittens are born blind and they are completely dependant on their mother. The first stages will involve learning to eat and then growing. The kitten's eyes will open and he will want to explore. At four weeks old, he is romping around shakily with his siblings. At this time he can begin to learn to use the litter box and should start to become a social animal. In the wild, the kitten's mother will start to supplement his diet with dead mice and other small pretty. But, you may want to give him some soft kitten food or some dry food that is softened a little with water.

Six Weeks

He's now six weeks old and he is more than ready to explore the home. If he's indoors, he will move from room to room. A feral kitten will follow his mother when she goes to hang out with the other cats. These cats will still receive mice from their mother, but they aren't dead anymore. Instead, the kitten has to learn to hunt the animal. Those who are eight weeks old will be completely weaned from their mother and are ready to go to a new home.

The Next Months

Through the next several months, the cats will grow really fast. You'll need to get them in to be vaccinated at this time so that they are healthy and strong. They will begin to learn what they have to do to live with their families and learn which behaviors are okay. You can teach your kitten his name as well as a few simple commands now. If the cat has long hair, make sure to get him used to allowing you to groom him, although the cat's coat doesn't need to be brushed just yet.

Sometimes, cats will suddenly develop a bad attitude. Believe it or not this is an adolescent stage for them. This happens when the cat goes from being a kitten into being a mature cat. Sounds just like children, right? This will happen around the fifth to six month and may last until the cat reaches a year old. They will still be playful but may get carried away to play too aggressively. If your cat is not neutered at six months of age, he will be mature enough to reproduce now. Neutering the cat will help this stage of his development go more smoothly. At six months, the cat looks the way he will look as an adult even though he may still become larger.

Adulthood

Just like humans, adult cats will continue to go through stages. But, these stages can be dealt with quite easily. And, unlike that mid life crisis you may have, the cat isn't likely to go out to purchase a sports car at this age!

If you take care of your kitten's health as he grows into an adult cat you will have a fulfilling relationship that will bring both you and the cat great satisfaction.

The Truth About Cat Endocrine Alopecia By Darrin Swain

There are many reasons why cats can experience problems with hair loss. A relatively rare reason for this to occur is because of feline endocrine alopecia. Vets don't exactly know why this rare skin condition occurs.

Whenever it does develop though, your cat's hair will start thinning. Various areas of the body will be affected by hair loss. You may notice that these areas appear to be the same on both sides of the body. Two areas that are most often affected include the rear legs and abdominal region.

Certain other medical conditions can mimic the signs caused by feline endocrine alopecia. To see if your cat is really suffering from this condition, the vet will have to rule out other possible causes of the hair loss first. Parasites and conditions like ringworm can cause similar signs.

In order to make a diagnosis of endocrine alopecia in cats, vets typically look at a sample of hairs under a microscope. Doing so can help determine at what stage of their growth the hair were broken. Skin scrapings around the affected area can also help determine what's causing hair loss in your cat. Fungal infections like ringworm can easily cause signs.

A blood sample may also be in order if your vet suspects feline endocrine alopecia to be the problem. The sample won't be tested in the office though. A laboratory will need to inspect it to see how the endocrine system is functioning as far as hormones go.

As mentioned earlier, vets don't know why cat endocrine alopecia develops. Hormones like testosterone, estrogen, or thyroid hormone are some of the leading suspects though. Cats with the condition may need to start a regimen of hormone therapy to deal with it.

Cats that are eating foods that they're allergic to may experience spontaneous hair loss. Therefore, you may need to start your cat on a food trial to see if it helps relieve the signs. You may need to start feeding your cat a different type of food.

Sometimes, feline endocrine alopecia is treated with medications that are designed to grow the hair back. This isn't always the preferred method of treatment in cats though. These medications can lead to serious side effects in some felines. They can be toxic to the liver over time and also cause cardiac problems.

Cats may even develop other conditions like diabetes mellitus after taking these medications. Some even experience changes in their behavior.

Flyover Farewell

At 12:55pm Saturday, the animals gathered on the tarmac. A group of twitter friends, bedecked with aviator goggles, readied to take flight to honor those pets who had crossed over the rainbow bridge.

Sadie D. Doxie offered an opening prayer.
Then The Aviators took to the air!

When Taz, Daisy and Buddy of @3DogsWhite sent me a twitter message to tell me that Brooks was one of the dogs being honored in #TheAviators tribute mission, I didn't know what to expect. What was the tribute mission? Who were the aviators? Are these real airplanes, or what? I couldn't wait to join in on twitter Saturday to find out!

It turns out that The Aviators Club event is a lovely, touching tribute co-founded by Cori Berman, Dear Clyde and Shelly 338. They organized a detailed program with a special mission.

At 1:10 the farewells began. The planes went into Missing Pals formation and the aviators began calling out the names of departed pets.
At 1:32 Brooks' name was read.
(At 1:42 #TheAviators became a Trending Topic in the United States.)

As each pet's name was announced, pet parents shared memories and photos. One of the most touching tweets was "We wish to honor and say goodbye to all the animals who had no one to say goodbye to them."

The Aviators even flew near the rainbow bridge.

Then, at 1:55 The Aviators returned to home base, landed, and closed with a poem and a prayer. Thank you to Taz, Daisy and Buddy, and to all the Aviators, for honoring Brooks and for a special tribute to pets who have passed and are lovingly remembered.

The Aviators fly missions for special occasions, tours of home towns, etc., porch parties to deliver treats to sick friends, and tribute missions to honor pets OTRB, and use #TheAviators.

Oh, and are there real airplanes? That's up to you!

Want positive pet tips, good news, and special bonuses? Content not already on the blog? Fetch my free newsletter, Pawsitively Pets! Kelly can't wait to see you there.

Five Tips for Selecting the Best Cat Tree By Petar Petrov

One of the best ways to satisfy your cat?s curiosity and keep in shape is to provide her with a cat tree. Since there are many such trees offered in the market, you should spend enough time understanding a few things before purchasing one for your beloved pet. Many pets need enough amount of stimulation to prevent them from getting bored, and cat trees are definitely one among best cat furniture that will keep your cat active through the day. But before making decision which tree is best for your feline friend you should consider some things.

Safety Matters a Lot!

It should be the very first thing that you need to consider, when shopping for a cat tree. Not only should you provide safety for your cat, but also for you or anyone who comes close to that tree. Cat owner should know what their cats can do, and if there are risky areas in your home, the pets are going to explore it for sure.

The manufacturer is responsible for making a well-constructed cat trees, but the owners are equally responsible for making good judgment in terms of selection. Ensure that the design of the tree does not compromise on safety. Some of them could be made of cheap materials and could collapse under the weight of your pet. You may also want to buy a tree, which will not trip over when your cat takes a flying leap, lands on side or top of the cat tree. The lighter and smaller trees are not the best option if you have big or heavy cats at home. Check the stability of tree before making the purchase. Some of the manufacturers use toxic chemicals, glues, and dyes in the making process, and it is strictly not recommended to go for such ones.

Accessibility

Ensure that the kitty cat tree you intend to buy is accessible to your cat or kitty. Cats should be able to climb tree in all situations. You pets many be overweight, old, have health problems, or declawed. If you?ve bigger cats, take trees that can accommodate properly. The cats should be able to get down or up the tree very easily.

Durability

Some cat trees at local stores are made with cheap materials, so stability should always be checked. Many use cardboard as the main support, which is not that safe, especially when the cat is climbing the tree.

Don?t Overlook the Visual Appeal

The cat tree not only should appeal to your pet, but it should also be great addition to your home d?cor. If you?ve spent $2000 on a new sofa or furniture, you wouldn?t of course want to see ugly tree placed in the middle of living room. So, make it a point to choose something that complements your furniture, design, and style of the room.

Price

It is not about buying some cheap or expensive kitty tree, but purchasing something that offers great value for money. Have some budget in your mind and buy a tree that will satisfy both you and your cat.

Keeping all these things in mind, now you can choose a secure, well-balanced, and stable cat tree, and keep your pets happy.

Siberian and Neva Masquerade cats By Scott Waldon

Domesticated cats have been in America for many centuries (which are believed to have originated from Britain and Europe), but Siberian, and Siberian "Seal Tabby Point" (Neva Masquerade), an offspring of cross breeding Siberian, Siamese and Birman cats are still rare in America. The Siberian cat has a long history which dates back to the 17th century, living on the tree tops in the dense Siberian forest. Over the centuries this breed adapted to Siberia?s harsh climates which no other breeds could do. Siberians have a triple fur coat; guard hairs, awn hairs, and down, which enabled them to withstand the harsh climates of Siberia. Siberians, and in particular, Siberian Neva Masquerade cats, are known to be one of the most intelligent cats in the world, although they have very humble beginnings. With a long history of survival in the harsh climates of Siberia, these cats have proven their endurance and worth many times over and now have reached championship status with many feline clubs around the world. In the 1930s, Siberians were discovered in the south central area of Russia, living on the streets of Novosibirsk and nearby small towns. Breeding with Siamese and Birman cats (whether naturally, or with man?s interaction) the Siberians offspring is known as a Seal Tabby Point, due to its color. Soon after, this breed was transported to Leningrad (now St. Petersburg) and announced as a "New Breed" called Neva Masquerade. This name was derived from the nearby Neva River, and the masquerade parties so prevalent among the wealthy people living near the river. My source, and the owner of Cattery is an expert with Siberians who has owned, handled, and bred this breed of feline for more than 40 years in her native Novosibirsk, Russia and is very familiar with Siberian?s and the later arrival of Siberian Neva Masquerade?s. My source also told me that she first begun seeing the Siberian Seal-tabby-point (Neva Masquerade) long before 1993 and it was first born in her home town of Novosibirsk.

The Neva?s traits are pointed coloring (different coloring on their feet, nose and tops of the ears), with much white fur and blue eyes. The origins of the color point is obviously met with some dispute, but as long as proper records have been kept (1980?s), color points are noted to have been produced, although to this day the jury is still out on its true origins.

Siberians take five years to fully mature physically, but keep their kitten-like personalities throughout their life. The first Siberian was imported to America in 1991, and the first "Neva Masquerade" was imported in 1996. Although Neva Masquerades (Seal-tabby-point) where imported later to America and became quite popular with cat fanciers, they are still rare in the United States, and many breeders have waiting lists for their kittens. The Siberian was accepted into TICA (The International Cat Association) New Breed program in 1992 and given championship status in 1996.

In the world of cat show competition, all standards that apply to the Siberian Cat, apply to the Color point (Neva Masquerade) variety, according to TICA. In January 2009, the Neva Masquerade was accepted into the Fife registry (F?d?ration Internationale F?line) as a new breed known as "Siberian Color Point". Siberian cats were accepted for registration by CFA (Cat Fanciers Association) in February 2000 and advanced to championship status in February 2006, although some countries still do not accept color point Siberians as a variety of the Siberian cat breed.

Although Siberians do shed and require regular grooming, the coat is not inclined to mat which makes grooming easier and quicker than most longhaired cats. Siberian and Siberian Neva Masquerade?s, are considered hypoallergenic due to the lower levels of a protein in their system (Fel d 1). Most cats have approximately 63,000 microns while Siberians have a mere 200 microns of this protein in their systems, which is a source of allergies with all cat breeds. Although Siberians are less likely to trigger allergic reactions, its best to spend some time around one before considering adoption.

Neva Masquerade?s, as well as all Siberians, adjust easily to their lifestyle surroundings and make a very good house pet. Siberians are very sociable cats and want to be near their owners. They will usually greet you at the door when you come home, not unlike the family dog. Often described as dog-like, the Siberian is loyal and not shy around guests, they are intelligent animals and quick to learn. Their meow is sweet, and when they come to greet you, they make a unique chirping sound. Many Siberians find water fascinating and like to be around it and watch running water, it?s said that some like to bring their toys and drop them in their water bowls. They also will not only monitor your shower or bath, but possibly join you, too. This affectionate breed makes an ideal lap cat and a wonderful companion who will bring their owner years of happiness, as their lifespan can exceed 16 years. Siberians and Neva Masquerade?s are completely trusting of humans, making it quite a responsibility when placing these kittens in new homes, according to the owner of siberianking.org nursery.

A social breed which loves the company of humans, and enjoys other animals, along with all the other fascinating traits the Neva Masquerade has, let it not go without saying, this breed is so intelligent it learns different languages very fast too. Since the Neva?s of, my sources cattery, are transported directly from the south center of Siberia and then raised in a multi-lingual household, they understand both Russian and English languages, according to this nursery?s owner. She also went on to say that this cat really understands different languages, and not just the tone of a person?s voice. The fact is, she said, is that no matter what tone is used with Neva Masquerades (Siberian Seal-tabby-points), they understand the language and respond better than most dogs.

The following are some fascinating facts about all domestic cats as well as Siberians, which you may not have known:

?Domestic cats can run about 30 miles (48 kilometers) per hour.

?The cat's tail is an extension of its backbone, and the flexible tail helps a cat keep its balance and land on its feet when it falls.

?A cat can move each ear independently, and improve its hearing by aiming the cup of its ears in the direction a sound is coming from.

Although domestic cats have lived for centuries in Europe and America. The Siberian Neva Masquerade is still very new and unique to most Americans. From its wonderful personality to its incredible disposition, and dog like attitude, this is one breed that is sure to warm the hearts of cat lovers, and maybe make some Dog lovers (who never thought they would care for cats), into cat fanciers as well.

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How to Care For Your Ragdoll Cat By Ava Gilmore

Ragdolls are exceptional animals who demand unique care and consideration. Their characteristic fur, character, and medical needs mean different methods of care. Let?s investigate all of these three things specific to Ragdolls and how to care appropriately for your cat.

Ragdolls have long, soft, rabbit-like fur. As their fur does not mat, the Ragdoll doesn?t need a lot of grooming. However, it?s a good to groom your Ragdoll at least every few days. This alleviates hairballs and aids in bonding.

Many folks think that Ragdolls don?t shed. This is not always true. It actually depends on the specific cat. For example, I have two Ragdolls. One sheds gigantic masses of fur, and the second sheds not one hair. Because it?s hard to know if your cat will shed, it?s a good practice have a vacuum and lint roller ready just in case.

The Ragdoll character can be defined as: respectful, outgoing, perceptive, needy, and passive. Due to these distinctive characteristics, special care should be reserved for Ragdolls.

Due to the their sociable and friendly character, we shouldn?t let these cats outside unless they are supervised. The Ragdoll breed does not grasp self-defense. They probably won?t recognize danger or comprehend the occasion to battle or flea from a risky situation.

The perceptive and needy aspects of the Ragdoll character may present challenges if leaving the cat home a long for a large part of the day. Usually, a couple hours home by alone is the longest time you should leave them alone.

If responsibilities such as work or school have you away from the home for greater than a couple hours, it preferable to adopt another pet to stay home and keep your cat company. Usually, Ragdolls are welcoming of other pets, including dogs.

Generally speaking, there are no health problems associated with the Ragdoll breed. Nevertheless, be aware of the disease called HCM or Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. This is a genetic disease found in some Ragdoll lines. Disappointingly, a cure has not been found for HCM and there are no treatment options available. The survival rate is very low. HCM typically claims the life of the Ragdoll when they are still a kitten ? sometimes younger than one year old.

Ragdoll groups have donated tons of money to research and find the HCM gene. In the end it payed off: the Ragdoll HCM gene was isolated.

Now that genetic testing for HCM is available, a good breeder will test the parents for HCM before breeding a cat. If you are breed a Ragdoll, it?s tremendously important to test the cats for the HCM gene. If you want to purchase a Ragdoll, be certain to ask for the medical paperwork indicating that both parents tested negative for the HCM gene.

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Homemade Cat Food By Mike Kim

Benefits Of Homemade Cat Food

Making your own cat food at home is a great alternative to commercially available food. First of all, you know what ingredients will be used and it will be a more natural meal compared to pet food, which is usually loaded with preservatives and other nasty fillers. Here is what you need to know about making your own food for your cat.

As carnivores, cats need:

Protein from meat or fish
Fatty acids
Vitamins
Minerals
Water
Taurine

As meat eating animals, cats don't really need carbohydrates such as rice and grains. But a small amount of them in the diet is fine. Carbohydrates can be used as energy and are also cheaper on than meats. .

Taurine is a very important amino acid so make sure your cat gets it in the form of a vitamin.

Usually meats and vegetables are a staple of homemade cat food. Grains are optional. Organ meats can be used as a once in a while treat.

You can use raw lamb, beef, turkey, or chicken. Never use raw pork or fish as these can have parasites. Use meats that have some fat content to them.

To make the meat mixture, mix 1 pounds of the meat, 1 cup of water, and 3 tablespoons of powdered egg shells. After it has been mixed, store it in the freezer.

Now, you need to be careful with vegetables. Never feed your can onions, tomatoes, potatoes, eggplant, and peppers. These vegetables can cause health problems for your pet. Cut the vegetables up into small pieces and store them in the refrigerator.

For the grain mixture, you can use oats, rice, flour, etc. Cook the grains so that they are soft and easy to chew on.

When preparing the meal, the mixture should mostly be made of meat. The rest should be made of the vegetables and grains. Aim for a ratio of 3:1. You will want to thaw the mixture with hot water. Wait till the mixture is warm as cats prefer warm food.

You can also add nutritional supplements to the mixture. An adult cat will only need a few spoonfuls of this mixture per day.

A homemade meal will add years to your cat's life.

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Buy Your Cat Supplies Online By Joe Snyder

Best Items and Cat Supplies Online

It is always a celebration whenever a new kitten or cat is brought to a fresh home. Knowing this, it is then important to be prepared with all the necessary supplies that you think the pet might require before it arrives, instead of shopping after the animal has entered your house. Here are the most basic and necessary tools that you might want to look for the next time you drop by the pet store, or when you look at some cat supplies online.

Tools for Litter
These boxes are essential for holding all your kitten's litters, from droppings to the cat's war trophies and toys from outside the house. These tools must be washed and replenished with sand regularly, and your cleaning utensils should include a disinfectant and a litter scoop.

Cat Tree/Scratching Post
It is natural for cats to scratch, and so it is not right for you to have your pet de-clawed to stop them from playing with your furniture. It is best that you buy your feline a scratching post to help it both exercise its muscles and polish its claws. You will find a variety of these essentials in nearby pet shops and retailers of cat supplies online.

Food and water bowls
Some of these are made from plastic and metal, while others are built to automatically replenish the animal's food supply according to the schedule that you've set. There are even pottery bowls, which are sturdy and can be heated inside the microwave. You can also find drinking fountains that are constructed to accommodate the weight and size of the cats.

Cat Food
You have to provide your cat with adequate amounts of fresh food and water every day at a given time. You should try to purchase those that are branded, since they are the safest among your other choices, which may include leftovers or even dog chow. You should also consider the age of your kitten when picking a good diet for your animal, as young animals tend to have more sensitive stomachs.

Carriers
This is used when taking your cat outside, especially to the vet or to a long vacation away from home. Remember to consider the case's durability and construction whenever picking one for your cat. Both factors will ensure that your pet stays safe inside the carrier.

Toys
Your bundle of fluff will need a range of toys to keep it happy and healthy. You can start supplying your pet with these by visiting a nearby supply store to look for toy mice, cat nip, and the like.

Beds
Cat beds may seem to be one of the luxuries among the many tools you see when checking out cat supplies online, but these mattresses are actually very important since cats, especially kittens, love to snuggle. Cheap cat beds, such as an old blanket or a throw pillow, will do. What's important is that the bed will be cozy enough for your pet.

Worming/Flea Control Products
There are many products to get rid of fleas and ticks inside markets, but it is best to listen to your veterinarian because these products can be dangerous, especially when your cat becomes too exposed to the chemicals, or if it accidentally licks some of the substance.

Grooming Products
These products are totally optional if your cat has short fur, but it also pays to spend time with your kitten. Remember, these felines like it when they are pampered.

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Helpful Advice on Caring for Senior Cats By Darrin Swain

Sooner or later, your beloved cat will start to get old and experience physical changes. This typically occurs between the ages of seven and ten. However, some are fortunate enough to stave off major changes until approximately 12 years old. Whenever the time finally comes though, you will need to make a few changes in how you care for your pet. Keep reading for useful advice on caring for senior cats.

Most owners take their cats to the vet for an annual exam. Older cats need to be seen by the vet more often than their younger counterparts since the risk of problems has increased. It's best to schedule a wellness exam every six months.

You will also need to change what you feed your senior cat somewhat. Seniors who become less active but are still fed the same amount of calories will more than likely become overweight. Obesity is particularly a problem for seniors, so a veterinarian-approved diet would definitely be in order.

When caring for senior cats, always ensure that they always have access to fresh drinking water. Dehydration more easily sets in as cats advance in age. Their organs won't respond very well to chronic dehydration either. The kidneys usually give seniors the most problem, and frequent dehydration certainly won't do these vital organs any good.

Just like with humans, arthritis becomes a problem for older cats. Once arthritis sets in, your cat won't be as physically active as he used to be. Don't be surprised if he stops climbing the stairs or hopping up onto the windowsill. Arthritic cats may even have problems getting into their litter boxes. If you notice yours has an issue with this, you can accommodate him by getting a shorter box or even putting a set of stairs beside it.

Dental care is important for cats of all ages. For older cats, it becomes increasingly important. The risk of developing dental disease only increases with age. This disease can cause enough pain to keep your cat from eating.

Your cat may also lose the energy to keep himself groomed properly. You don't want him to develop a dry or excessively dirty coat. Matting can also become a problem if you have a long-haired breed. You can help your senior cat out by brushing him yourself on a daily basis, or at least a few times each week.

The changes that occur in your senior cat aren't just physical. He may also display mental issues much like elderly humans. He may wander around occasionally or even appear disoriented. Some cats become much more vocal and meow too much for their owner's liking. When caring for senior cats, also keep in mind they may not respond well to changes. Try to keep everything in the household the same as they do best with familiar routines.

There are quite a few diseases that are common in older cats. Hypertension, kidney issues, hyperthyroidism, and diabetes mellitus are among some of the most common. Different types of cancer are also more prevalent for aged cats.

With the increase in risk of these diseases, it's important to monitor your cat closely for changes. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, you may want to let a vet give his opinion of it. Examinations conducted twice a year will hopefully catch any diseases early on, which would hopefully make it easier to deal with.

Finding the best cat food for your kitty does not have to be high-priced. By Aaron Drenckpohl

Being aware of what is better for your pet's diet is always an intriguing dilemma to answer because there are countless selections to choose from. For starters I am going to inform you what cat food is produced from. And I'm talking about the one that comes processed or bagged and that you can buy just about at any food store.

The dry and wet foods are basically leftovers of meats from local butchers and supermarkets once they have obtained the "high grade" sections from the animals. Such as, beef, poultry, turkey and pork. These remains of meat, unwanted fat plus bones will be taken to companies that make cat food like Purina, Procter and Gamble, Whiskas and many others. They will buy this kind of cheap"meat" and process it through degrading it by temperature, pressurizing it and also by incorporating several substances to it. After they develop this type of paste they'll add the chemicals as well as vitamins and minerals that the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) requires them to contain in the final product to meet up with specific quality standard.

Then depending on what type of presentation the end product is going to be they either extract or include water to it. When it's destined to be bagged then they will get it dry and in case it's going canned or maybe in pouches they may need to add some moisture content to it.

The prevalent denominator of these food products is definitely the content of proteins, fibers, fats and taurine. The next thing will be incorporating the corresponding vitamins and minerals depending about what the specific health condition is going to be. As an example, if your cat has hairball issue then the food will contain a bit more of crude fiber in it. Another example would be food targeted for healthy bones and teeth, which just like in human beings, calcium is an essential part for keeping them strong as well as healthy.

Just like the couple of targeted health problems I mentioned you could find many more such as bad breath, healthy joints, food allergies, weight loss, etc. A few brands will incorporate Omega-6 and Omega-3 essential fatty acids which will help protect against disorders like high-cholesterol, renal system condition and also allergies. Although these kinds of acids are not required by the AAFCO I find them to be very helpful for your pet's healthy live style.

To conclude, the best cat food could be just about any brand name at the nearest market. It does not necessarily must be the highly-priced famous brands in order to be looked at good. Basically look at the proteins and fibers contents particularly and your cat should be fine. This is applicable with regard to already healthful adult cats. Should you have indoor cats simply get them the indoor cats formula because it is made up of grains and greens which will help them with their digestive system minimizing hairballs. In case your cat has some sort of distinct health problem simply grab the food intended for this. In general all brands contain the same recipe they simply have various brands and displays.Thus for my part there's not a best cat food brand particularly, it's much more about the content.

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FitDog Friday Mini Challenge and Slimdoggy

This month we're participating in the first Keeping up with K9 Kamp mini challenge, hosted by Chester and Gretel at YDWWYW. The challenge was to determine if we were feeding our dog the right amount of food.

Kelly checks out the fridge for something good!

Even though our vet discussed with us how much to feed Kelly several years ago, things have changed since then. Kelly's older, less active, and other circumstances influence how much food she needs to stay healthy and not gain weight. We know from experience that when we've slipped and not paid attention to this, Kelly has put on a few pounds.

We used Slimdoggy app to find out how many calories Kelly should be eating.

I entered Kelly's current weight (32) and desired weight (32). Kelly is presently at, or just under, her desired weight. Since she is a mixed breed there is no specific standard weight, but according to the vet she is at a healthy weight.

I then entered her activity level. I chose Low Intensity. Although we do take two walks a day and romps in the back yard, Kelly is a senior and does a lot of sleeping!

The app indicated that we should feed Kelly 694 calories/day. I was surprised at the results, because this is actually more than the 1-1/2 cups of premium dog food that we feed her daily (3/4 cup twice a day). However she does make up for it in veggies and several healthy treats used for training and rewards. And since she has worked hard to slim down (from 42 lbs) and keep her weight off, I feel as if we are probably feeding the proper amount. Sometimes she does pester me for more food late at night, so I give her a small amount, what we call second dinner. This usually satisfies her.

As suspected, most of the treats I feed Kelly don't list calories. I was surprised at the suggested serving size. For instance, I have some jerky treats (made in the USA) that are certainly not small--about 6 inches long by 2 inches wide--suggest that I give a medium size dog such as Kelly 4 jerky treats a day! I can imagine that this would be a lot of calories!

I may try to increase the amount of her feedings slightly, while keeping tabs on her weight, to see if I can give her more calories without her gaining weight.

Here are some samples of the Slimdoggy app pages:

Thank you Slimdoggy for the great app!
FitDog Friday is hosted by Peggy's Pet Place, Slimdoggy, and To Dog with Love.
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Who’s the Most Pampered of Them All?

What’s the craziest thing you do for your pet?

All over the country, the phrase “pampered pets” is being taken to a whole new level by pet owners and enthusiasts looking for the very best for their furry friends. At Morris Animal Inn, we pamper our pets with cat and dog services like luxury kitty suites with televisionsand our indoor pool and aqua center, and we are always excited to hear about new pet amenities. Here are some of our recent favorites!

In New York, one family has made the most of the space in their small Brooklyn home by creating what they call “Kittyloft”; an indoor cat playground that runs up and down their walls. Both interior designers, homeowners Bill Hilgendorf and Maria Christina Rueda told Forbes Magazine that they put their design skills to the test by creating a shelf-like, brightly colored obstacle course that leads their cats up and down sets of stairs, over doorframes and across kitchen cabinets. Their cats are known to run the loop at top speed!

San Diego International Airport now offers unisex bathrooms… for pets! As reported by Patch.com and Huff Post Live, the airport hosts a number of “Pet Relief” stations, which consists of an indoor room with fresh turf, a fire hydrant for pet pit-stops and even includes a bag dispenser for easy clean up and a hand-washing station for pet owners. Though all airports are required to have pet relief stations somewhere on site, this airport has given pups some first-class perks by moving stations to easily accessible indoor areas of the terminal.

Rural Pennsylvania may be filled with woods for your dog to play in, but at one home in Newton Square, you’d never have to worry about muddy footprints on the carpet. The home, according to Forbes, devotes one of its four and a half bathrooms to the dogs with a customized dog “mudroom,” complete with a deep farmer’s sink, plenty of cabinet space and a built-in canine shower with a mosaic of pets running around the walls.

Though we can’t claim to have a “Kittyloft” of our own, our kitty playroom offers multiple climbing poles, laser light toys and even a kitty wheel! Do you have any crazy ways that you pamper your pet?

Lure Your Cat to Drink More Water through Pet Drinking Fountain By Joshua Valentine

Majority of pet owners can prove to the fact that cats are particular. They will only eat specific kinds of food out of a certain type of bowl. What many individuals don't know is that this rule applies to water as well. Generally, cats do not drink enough water and this can lead to different health problems, but these problems can be prevented simply by observing the likes and dislikes of a cat with regards to water preferences. To lure a cat to drink more water takes some trial and error, but as soon as the perfect combination is found, a pet owner should have no problem with their cat remaining hydrated. A cat is one that prefers moving water. It must be an instinct from the wild to desire moving water as opposed to stagnant, but lots of cat owners report their cats will only drink running water.

To check the cats' preference, just turn on a faucet part way (high water pressure will most likely scare the poor thing) and situate the cat next to the sink. There is a good chance the cat will examine it cautiously at first and then start to drink. If the cat likes this, it will be obvious when they begin jumping up to the faucet and trying to drink without the water running. If they do indeed seem to like getting their water this way, a pet drinking fountain may be bought to facilitate this.

Cat dehydration can be caused by lots of different factors from lack of available drinking water to illness. It's very important to make sure a cat doesn't become dehydrated, particularly for those cats afflicted by diabetes or renal failure, as those two illnesses in particular cause increased urination which in turn causes increased chance for dehydration. The symptoms of dehydration are constipation, exhaustion, dry mouth, sunken eyes, increased heart rate, poor skin elasticity, and poor capillary refill time. Pet drinking fountains for cats aren't just convenient for yourself as the dog owner, however they is certainly a real difference maker to keep your cat healthy. On the whole, cats love water, which is what the family pet fountain provides for their life. Some may just wallow in it and check out it for a little bit, or some may stick their paw on the water and spend playtime with it. But then they will probable realize this really is their water source, and they'll start drinking from your fountain.

If you've been among those pet owners that run around the house turning faucets on in order that they drip with your cat can drink their particular, you will need to stop doing that. Allowing your cat drink from sinks is an efficient way of getting him to give up drinking from his bowl. That is surely how to have this mess, it will truly harm your pet?s health if he doesn't drink; this means you need to stop getting this done. How things go about for anyone who is eventful with work or leave completely for a holiday? What happens if the one that is watching your pets isn't going to bypass and switch on water faucets? Your cats aren?t going to be getting enough water and also can frequently mean urinary tract, live, and kidney problems. That can be solved along with a pet drinking fountain. Eliminate walking around the house turning faucets on and off.

Drink Specials Can Make Eating Out More Affordable

Pet Health - Information Regarding Cat Enteritis By Darrin Swain

Enteritis in cats is a very serious disease. It's often referred to as distemper, which is a disease that dogs commonly get. However, feline enteritis isn't the same. A common other name for the condition is panleukopenia.

This disease normally strikes kittens younger than six months old. However, older cats also have a relatively increased risk of developing it. Older cats may be strong enough to fight off the affliction, but kittens can easily succumb to it.

Feline enteritis is caused by a virus. Wild animals such as cats and raccoons can harbor the highly contagious virus. Infected animals can pass it to your cat by coming into direct contact with him. If your cat comes into contact with nasal or oral secretions, he can get infected too.

Owners should also know that the virus that causes enteritis in cats can also contaminate items such as bedding, litter boxes, and food dishes. Owners can also pass the virus along to their cats because it's capable of contaminating human hands.

After being infected with feline enteritis, your cat may not show any symptoms for up to ten days. Common signs include high fever and loss of appetite. Cats may also vomit frequently, producing yellow-tinted bile in the process. If you touch your cat in the abdominal region, he may cry out in pain. It is also common for cats to have diarrhea and produce stool that also has a yellow color, although it may appear to have blood in it instead.

As mentioned, enteritis in cats is quite serious. That's why it is important that you get your cat checked out and diagnosed with the condition as soon as possible. The chances of your cat surviving a bout with this virus rise considerably the earlier that treatment is started.

There is no way to battle the virus that causes cat enteritis directly. The vet will simply need to provide supportive measures to help your cat make it through the disease. Antibiotics will likely be given to stave off any bacterial infections. IV fluids and nutrition therapy may also be necessary.

It is very easy to prevent enteritis in cats. Simply have your feline vaccinated. The virus can live virtually anywhere in your home, so your kitten would be at risk if left unvaccinated. Using a standard disinfectant won't be enough to kill the virus either.

If your cat survives an episode of feline enteritis, then you should be aware that he will continue to shed the virus for a few weeks. Other cats in the household can easily be infected. The good news is that cats that survive an infection from the virus will be relatively safe from reinfection since their immune system will be boosted.

Wednesday Pet Roundup- July 24, 2013

Hi and welcome to Wednesday Pet Roundup!
Here's Kelly, she enjoys a dip in the lake to cool off.

* Pets and Heat Wave Don't Mix. One of my concerns is seeing people walk their dogs on the hot pavement. If it's too hot for your bare feet, it's too hot for theirs.

*From Something Wagging This Way Comes, 10 Funniest Reasons not to let your dog go along in your car this summer. Leave your dogs at home, they'll be more comfortable. (Picture borrowed from Pamela!)

* Introducing the world's first hypoallergenic cat. abc news asks if it's for real, or hype?

* While celebrating the birth in the royal family, mother nature network takes a look at corgis, spaniels and other royal pets.

What about you--What do you do when you see a dog left in a hot car? Would you like to have a hypoallergenic cat or dog?

Want positive pet tips, good news, and special bonuses? Content not already on the blog? Fetch my free newsletter, Pawsitively Pets! Kelly can't wait to see you there.

How to Welcome a New Cat into Your Home

Are you about to introduce a new cat into your family home? If you are it is a good idea to make sure you are prepared. This article will help ensure you are, and the introduction is a happy one for both you and your cat.

While many people consider getting a kitten, other people give a home to a cat. This could be a stray cat or an abandoned cat that is looking for a new home. If you find yourself with an opportunity to adopt a cat you would do well to ensure you are prepared to welcome them into your home.

The first thing to remember is that the cat may have had bad experiences with other owners prior to coming to you. Don't expect too much from the cat to begin with, but let it know it has a home and that it doesn't need to feel scared.

Oftentimes it is best to bring the cat into your home in a carrier and just to open the door and let it come out in its own time. It can also be a good idea to restrict its movements to just one or two rooms initially. He will soon want to come out and explore, but giving him the run of the house might be too much to cope with to begin with.

Make sure you are prepared in other ways as well. For example you should buy some cat bowls for water and food, and invest in good quality food such as Purina cat food too. Purina en cat food is well balanced and will ensure your new addition is on a good diet from the beginning of his life with you.

Some cats will be very brave and affectionate right from the word go. He might creep out of his cat carrier, explore the room he is in and then hop on your lap and go to sleep until you get up to feed him some Purina cat food. This is a good sign and it means he is settling into his new surroundings. Don't worry if it doesn't happen straightaway though; it could take a while for him to settle down and trust you. This is especially the case if he has come from a bad home and distrusts humans.

The good news is he will likely respond to your good treatment of him over time. Cats are very independent but they will be happy in homes where they feel safe and loved. With Purina en cat foodat mealtimes, toys to play with and a garden to explore, your cat will be happy to settle into your home for a long time to come.

All cats have their own unique characters, and while some are quiet and relaxed, others are nosy and incredibly affectionate. Your cat will have his own little character that will start to become known over time. Get to know him as he gets to know you, and your relationship will develop in ways you may not have expected. Perhaps he will come and tell you when he is hungry, or when he wants attention. Perhaps he will always want to sleep on your lap. It's true in the end that cats own us, rather than the other way around!

Air Cleaner For Cats- 4 Important Features To Have In A Purifier

For those of us who love cats, we are often able to overlook the hair, dander, and odort that they can produce. However, allowing these pollutants to accumulate can not only be unsightly, but can cause allergies and asthma to flare. Clearing the air with a purifier is an effective solution if the purifier has the following 4 features.

Carbon Filter---Thank goodness for carbon, because it is well-known for its ability to filter gaseous pollutants from the air. So if an air purifier is to be effective at removing urine smell it must have 10 to 15 pounds of activated carbon.

The added bonus of having carbon is that even though your main concern may be odor from your feline friend, carbon doesn't really care about the source of the odor. It will indiscriminately remove gases, odors, and chemicals that may be lurking in your air from everyday living such as cooking smells from last night's dinner, fragrances from personal products, and smells cleaning products emit.

Filter For Removing Ammonia---Remember when your grandmother used to clean windows with ammonia? That's because it's powerful stuff. And ammonia is one of the main components of urine. That's why cat urine can be such an eye-stinging experience.

In order for any cleaner to be able to remove this smell, it needs a carbon filter that has a considerable amount of activated carbon in it. But carbon alone can't effectively remove it completely.

An additive such as ammonasorb that is specifically designed to absorb the ammonia is what is needed. This additive has been shown to enhance carbon's ability to absorb the ammonia and return the air to your home smelling fresh and clean.

Filter For Dander---Cat dander can be mistaken for particles you sometimes see floating in your air. In fact, the dead skin flakes that your pet is constantly shedding are invisible to the human eye. These flakes are microscopic in size.

But the effect that they can have on someone who is allergic or asthmatic is huge. Constant exposure to high levels of dander can and often does cause sensitivity where there was previously none.

That's why it's important to have a filter that can remove micron size particles. A high-efficiency particle arresting (HEPA) filter is the best type of filter for the job because by definition, it can remove airborne particulates as small as.3 microns.

This is the type of filtration that is recommended for people with asthma and allergies, and is used by hospitals to insure clean air.

Living with a warm-blooded pet such as a cat probably means that your main concerns center around hair and dander, but HEPA filtration will also remove other well-known allergens such as dust, dust mites, mold and mildew spores, bacteria, and viruses.

24 Hour Cleaning Capability---A cleaner can have the best combination of filters in the entire world, but unless it can run all the time, it will constantly be playing catch up. And for you that means your air is not consistently clean. Keeping air quality high all the time is the most effective way to minimize the effects allergens can have.

A split capacitor motor is designed to run safely and effectively for long periods of time without needing a rest. Check the technical specifications to make sure that your unit can clean continuously. Allergens don't take a break and your unit shouldn't have to either.

A Vegan Diet: What Do You Eat?

Five Tips for Selecting the Best Cat Tree

One of the excellent ways to satisfy your cat's curiosity and keep in shape is to make her use a tree. Since there are many such trees offered in the marketplace, you should spend enough time in knowing few things before purchasing one for your beloved pet. Many pets need enough amount of stimulation so as to prevent them from getting bored, and trees are definitely one among best furniture that will keep your active through the day. But before making decision which is best for your feline friend you should consider some things.

Safety Matters a Lot!

It should be the very first thing that you need to consider, when shopping for a tree. Not only should you provide safety for your cat, but also for you or anyone who comes close to that tree. owner should know what their cats can do, and if there are risky areas in your home, the pets are going to explore it for sure.

The manufacturer is responsible for making a well-constructed tree, but the owners are equally responsible for making good judgment in terms of selection. Ensure that the design of the does not compromise on safety. Some of them could be made of cheap materials and could collapse under the weight of your pet. You may also want to buy a tree, which will not trip over when your takes a flying leap, lands on side or top of the tree. The lighter and smaller trees are not the best option if you have big or heavy cats at home. Check the stability of the before making the purchase. Some of the manufacturers use toxic chemicals, glues, and dyes in the making process, and it is strictly not recommended to go for such ones.

Accessibility

Ensure that the kitty you intend to buy is accessible to your or kitty. Cats should be able to climb the in all kinds of situations. You pets many be overweight, old, have health problems, or declawed. If you've bigger cats, take trees that can accommodate properly. The cats should be able to get down or up the very easily.

Durability

Some of the trees at local stores are made with cheap materials, so stability should always be checked. Many use cardboard as the main support, which is not that safe, especially when the is climbing the tree.

Don't Overlook the Visual Appeal

The not only should appeal to your pet, but it should also be great addition to your home decors. If you've spent $2000 on a new sofa or furniture, you wouldn't of course want to see ugly placed in the middle of living room. So, make it a point to pick something that complements your furniture, design, and style of the room.

Price

It is not about buying some cheap or expensive kitty tree, but purchasing something that offers great value for money. Have some budget in your mind and buy a that will satisfy both you and your cat.

Keeping all these things in mind, now you can choose a secure, well-balanced, and stable tree, and keep your pets happy.

Do You Really Need An Outside Events Caterer?

My Perch

There is a narrow window sill on our front porch where Kelly likes to perch. She watches the children play, the Fed Ex truck make deliveries, and the neighborhood cats pass by. I think she's rather cat-like in this behavior. Don't you?

Want Pawsitive pet tips, good news, and special offers? Content not already in the blog? Fetch our free newsletter, Pawsitively Pets

Are You Ready to Have a New Cat?

Sometimes the cat appears in your house unexpectedly. You meet a homeless kitten on the street, feel sorry for it, and bring it to your home. Or someone you know, for some reason needs to get rid of the cat, and it finds itself under the threat of living on a street or in a shelter, and you take the cat out of sympathy for the animal. You know that you do the right thing, and this is indeed true. But you bring the cat home and realize that both of you have to overcome a long period of adjustment and getting used to each other. And here you have to show patience and love, because the cat may feel frustrated, anxious, or on the contrary, it could be depressed because of new home, new environment, changes in nutrition, home-sickness, and many other things. And in this case only time, understanding and caring will help you to get along and become friends with your pet. Lovely kitten

Lovely kitten

Well, what if the decision to take the cat to the house is not spontaneous? You have to make a balanced decision, the acceptance of which should involve all members of the family. Choosing a cat essentially depends on the purpose for which you need it. If you are single and need a companion, you should choose a breed that fits your temperament, so you are never bored with each other, or vice versa, so that the cat does not annoy you by excessive activity if you like peace and order. Or maybe you want to demonstrate your pet at shows? Then thought should be given to which breed, in your opinion, is the most presentable, who will teach the cat to the exhibition process. You may need the services of a professional trainer or breeder. Well and if you want to devote yourself to a thoroughbred breeding, you need a lot of knowledge in the field of selection and training of cats, and you will need to work closely with your veterinarian to prevent problems. Think it over, who will take the main care of a cat. The animal needs a balanced diet, rest, walks, trips to the vet, etc. And it's better if all of this will be controlled by one member of the family. If you entrust your child with care of a cat, you should still monitor how comfortable the animal feels, how timely is feeding and cleaning. When the child begins to have other interests, promptly take care of the pet yourself. Consider also what the conditions of life you can offer to your cat and seek advice from breeders. Some active cats require space for games and hunting, while calm cats, such as phlegmatic long-haired breeds can feel great in a small apartment. If you already have pets in the house, make sure that the new cat is not terrorized by the dog, that a war for territory is not started with another cat already living with your, that new cat does not diversify its menu by your budgie, hamster or goldfish. Of course, you should calculate your financial ability to support a cat, because it includes not only high-quality feeding but also the care items, the cost of the veterinarian, participation in exhibitions and sometimes spoiled furniture and other expenses. And if you or anyone in your family suffers from allergies or asthma, you have to give up the idea of having a cat. Rate this Article

Are You Ready to Have a New Cat?Rating: 5.0/5 (1 vote cast)

Andrew Dar has published 2 articles. Article submitted on March 04, 2013. Word count: 573

How's Your Truffle Knowledge?

Pet Owner's Guide to Enteritis in Felines

Enteritis in cats is a very serious disease. It's often referred to as distemper, which is a disease that dogs commonly get. However, feline enteritis isn't the same. A common other name for the condition is panleukopenia.

This disease normally strikes kittens younger than six months old. However, older cats also have a relatively increased risk of developing it. Older cats may be strong enough to fight off the affliction, but kittens can easily succumb to it.

Feline enteritis is caused by a virus. Wild animals such as cats and raccoons can harbor the highly contagious virus. Infected animals can pass it to your cat by coming into direct contact with him. If your cat comes into contact with nasal or oral secretions, he can get infected too.

Owners should also know that the virus that causes enteritis in cats can also contaminate items such as bedding, litter boxes, and food dishes. Owners can also pass the virus along to their cats because it's capable of contaminating human hands.

After being infected with feline enteritis, your cat may not show any symptoms for up to ten days. Common signs include high fever and loss of appetite. Cats may also vomit frequently, producing yellow-tinted bile in the process. If you touch your cat in the abdominal region, he may cry out in pain. It is also common for cats to have diarrhea and produce stool that also has a yellow color, although it may appear to have blood in it instead.

As mentioned, enteritis in cats is quite serious. That's why it is important that you get your cat checked out and diagnosed with the condition as soon as possible. The chances of your cat surviving a bout with this virus rise considerably the earlier that treatment is started.

There is no way to battle the virus that causes cat enteritis directly. The vet will simply need to provide supportive measures to help your cat make it through the disease. Antibiotics will likely be given to stave off any bacterial infections. IV fluids and nutrition therapy may also be necessary.

It is very easy to prevent enteritis in cats. Simply have your feline vaccinated. The virus can live virtually anywhere in your home, so your kitten would be at risk if left unvaccinated. Using a standard disinfectant won't be enough to kill the virus either.

If your cat survives an episode of feline enteritis, then you should be aware that he will continue to shed the virus for a few weeks. Other cats in the household can easily be infected. The good news is that cats that survive an infection from the virus will be relatively safe from reinfection since their immune system will be boosted.

As an owner, it's important that you know about various health problems like aids in felines that can affect your furry friend. Learning about these conditions will help you get your cat treated quickly in case he does fall ill. To learn about a range of cat health problems , head on over to common-cat-diseases.com today.

Feed Natural Cat Food For Better Health

Food is an integral part of overall development. The composition and nutritional value of the food you serve to your pets matter a lot. Taste is something that appeals everyone, including your pets. If you own a cat, you must be aware how finicky cats can be towards food. Cats are strict meat eaters compared to other omnivorous pets, such as dogs. Hence, their nutritional composition mainly comprises of animal protein and amino acid called taurine. The deficiency of these two elements in the food can cause diseases, such as deterioration of the retina, deprivation of vision, and cardiac harm.

Hence, you need to choose cat food with utmost care. The food should be high in protein and less in carbohydrates. However, many cat foods have artificial flavors and preservatives which may not provide adequate nutrition as promised. It is here when you should actively think about natural cat food. Natural cat food has the required composition which is of utmost importance for the overall well being of your cat.

These foods are made from natural ingredients and have no fillers, genetically modified ingredients, artificial colours, flavors or preservatives. It tries to retain as much natural taste and ingredients as possible. This allows your cat to get natural vitamins and proteins for absorption. When you are looking for natural ingredients look for human grade cat food. Human grade cat food ensures that the food that you feed your cat is made out of the best natural ingredients of human edible quality. These foods offer superior nutritional benefits.

The advantages of carefully picking up the graded food include your pet's longevity and agility. Some foods may make your pet overly obese and inactive. This is largely because of increased fat ingredients and less of the proteins in the food. This can lead to many diseases and decrease your pet's age too.

However, human grade cat food has natural ingredients, which ensures that your pet gets essential fatty acids and proteins. This helps your cat get healthy coat, it increases immunity against skin ailments and allergies as these foods are free from artificial color enhancers and flavors which may induce a reaction on your pet's skin.

Because natural foods have no fillers, your pets will eat what is required and will also enjoy better taste. This also gives them more energy and helps them in maintaining a healthy weight. Natural foods are easy to digest, so your cat will stay away from digestive disorders. Give a healthy and more natural diet and avoid any health hassles in your cat.

Petproject.hk offers online natural cat food, human grade cat food , cat food, accessories and other information regarding cat products. Choose the best and cheap products for your cat by comparing price and products among different brands.

What's Better? Store Bought Broth, Homemade Stock Or Professional Soup Base?

Information Dog Owners Should Know Regarding Endocrine Alopecia in Felines

There are many reasons why cats can experience problems with hair loss. A relatively rare reason for this to occur is because of feline endocrine alopecia. Vets don't exactly know why this rare skin condition occurs.

Whenever it does develop though, your cat's hair will start thinning. Various areas of the body will be affected by hair loss. You may notice that these areas appear to be the same on both sides of the body. Two areas that are most often affected include the rear legs and abdominal region.

Certain other medical conditions can mimic the signs caused by feline endocrine alopecia. To see if your cat is really suffering from this condition, the vet will have to rule out other possible causes of the hair loss first. Parasites and conditions like ringworm can cause similar signs.

In order to make a diagnosis of endocrine alopecia in cats, vets typically look at a sample of hairs under a microscope. Doing so can help determine at what stage of their growth the hair were broken. Skin scrapings around the affected area can also help determine what's causing hair loss in your cat. Fungal infections like ringworm can easily cause signs.

A blood sample may also be in order if your vet suspects feline endocrine alopecia to be the problem. The sample won't be tested in the office though. A laboratory will need to inspect it to see how the endocrine system is functioning as far as hormones go.

As mentioned earlier, vets don't know why cat endocrine alopecia develops. Hormones like testosterone, estrogen, or thyroid hormone are some of the leading suspects though. Cats with the condition may need to start a regimen of hormone therapy to deal with it.

Cats that are eating foods that they're allergic to may experience spontaneous hair loss. Therefore, you may need to start your cat on a food trial to see if it helps relieve the signs. You may need to start feeding your cat a different type of food.

Sometimes, feline endocrine alopecia is treated with medications that are designed to grow the hair back. This isn't always the preferred method of treatment in cats though. These medications can lead to serious side effects in some felines. They can be toxic to the liver over time and also cause cardiac problems.

Cats may even develop other conditions like diabetes mellitus after taking these medications. Some even experience changes in their behavior.

It is vital that cat owners be aware that their feline can be affected by many different conditions such as feline chlamydia . Learning this information will help you recognize signs of disease quickly. To learn about some of these feline diseases , click over to common-cat-diseases.com today.

Where to Find the Best Hot Lobster Roll

Are Cats Smart or Dumb?

Love them or hate them cats are just hard to ignore. I love cats, but I have often wondered about just how smart they really are? For that reason I've collected a few videos of cats and their reactions to things! So you be the judge and tell me what you think!

Over the years, I've read, or heard so many different things about whether our friends are smart or clever and now I have a few words for you folks. Probably most of would say that cats are not smart because unlike dogs they aren't obedient, won't do tricks, and won't come when they are called. But, that's not a reason to call them stupid, as cats only do things when they want.

Yep, that's the thing with cats! They seems to do what they want and when they want. So if we love them enough and treat them right, maybe then they will be more willing to cooperate with us.

Anyway here are some videos of cats doing "clever things" and not so "clever things".

Meet the white cat that goes nuts after seeing its reflection in the mirror! This kitty is so popular at the moment that over the last few days it got more than 500,000 views on the Internet! It appears to me as if the angry white kitty has an imaginary conversation with his white, fluffy foe. And judging by the sounds it seems like they are having a pretty tense conversation.

Anyway, it would be better for you to avoid any contact with the white crazy cat as one can only imagine what would happen if the cat gets mad at you! Yep, it's that serious! Or this kitty here. Now, this is a way funnier situation! This cat gets totally confused after a dog shows up on the screen while his owner plays the video game 'Assassin's Creed' 3.

At first the cat seems so calm and peaceful while its owner is playing Assassin's Creed, but that comes to end as soon as it sees dogs on the screen! It flips out and starts searching the dogs behind the TV screen, because they show up and then they walk off the screen! But unfortunately for the cat, there are no dogs to be found behind the big TV screen! And that goes on and on.

Nonetheless, just like people, some cats are clever, some are not!

Emilija S Photo

Hey, guys! I'm Emilija, the blogger who helps you keep up with the latest happenings in the world of entertainment. Be it a funny video, picture, or meme in the viral-logy section, I'm here to blog about the most trending topics at the moment. My humble beginnings in creative writing lead back to high-school (when I was some kind of a wanna-be writer), but the real introduction to creative writing and penmanship I got at college. Then, after four years of studying English Language and Literature (from Chaucer to Shakespeare; from Virginia Woolf to George Orwell), I finally had a chance to express myself and blog. It's been a year and a half how I treat Jokeroo blog readers to some informative, witty and laughable articles. It's undenying truth that I'm young in both age and craft, but sure I have the enthusiasm of a child when it comes to blogging, all for your amusement. Rate this Article

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Emilija S has published 7 articles. Article submitted on November 13, 2012. Word count: 397

Beautiful, Practical, Waste-Free Lunch Kits From Kids Konserve

Heated Dogs Beds and Heated Cat Beds Can Provide Great Arthritis Relief

For any pet owner, providing a loving and comfortable environment is just one small way of returning the unconditional love and devotion our four-footed companions endlessly provide. For some of these faithful friends, as the years creep closer to old age, they can begin to show signs of achy joints and various level of discomfort associated with arthritis. Perhaps you have noticed that they are a little stiff after a nap, or that they appear to have some pain or stiffness in cold or damp weather. Whatever you have witnessed, seeing your loved one in pain breaks your heart and you simply want to provide some level of relief. Of course, your vet must be an integral part of any dog or cat's physical needs program. But in my quest to provide as much relief and comfort possible for my aging pals, I have found a few low tech tips that are particularly effective at providing relief.

Just like in humans, one of the best forms of relief for joint pain is providing warmth. You may think this sounds non-sophisticated, but it works. It is particularly important to provide warmth to your pet's body during colder temperatures or on damp days. This type of weather can cause joints to become especially stiff or swollen. The heat works to relax muscles and their spasms which are caused by the pain. Relaxed muscles relieve stress on the joints and provide overall improved joint flexibility. The heat also allows blood vessels to expand increasing circulation to the affected areas. Although a hot water bottle can be used, this is a very temporary heat source, quickly dissipating and requires constant attention. The best way to provide continual warmth is through a heated dog bed or a heated cat bed. Once your pet begins to feel the soothing warmth on his sore and painful joints, his heated pet bed will became an oasis of relief. The heated pet bed will also give your dog or cat relief from sleeping on the hard surface of the floor which tends to only aggravates the arthritic condition. Arthritis is a degenerative disease of the joints and if your pet continues to sleep on floors that are hard and cold this could actually cause the arthritis to worsen. Lastly, the soothing warmth will have a calming effect on your pet and allow for a restful sleep.

An essential part of the plan I have placed my aging pets on is nutritional supplements. Just like in humans, nutritional elements can affect the wellness of your pet's body and its ability to support joint health. The most common natural supplement recommended for the relief of arthritis in dogs and cats is glucosamine. Glucosamine is the primary glue that keeps connective tissue and bone together and may help alleviate joint pain and discomfort. It has also been reported to be useful in the prevention of arthritis. Additionally, Sea Cucumber and Shark Cartilage are both reported to be excellent sources of a host of minerals and protein that may supply the therapeutic protection for joints and the surrounding tissues our pet needs. I have given all three of these supplements to my arthritic pets and have found positive response and relief for my pets each time I have used them.

I believe one of my dog's favorite forms of relief from arthritis pain is slow and gentle massage. Slow and gentle massage is the only type of massage we should conduct ourselves. Anything more intense should be done by a professional or under instruction from your veterinarian. Massage not only provides a loving bond between you and your pet, but it loosens and relaxes the muscles which will tighten with the onset of pain. The blending of massage and a heated pet bed will definitely provide a winning combination.

Sandy Stone Photo

To read more about this topic or several other pet care articles and blogs, go to Pet Crates and More . Looking for that perfect heated bed to provide warmth to your pet; visit the website of Pet Crates and More for some terrific products. With more than 20 years of management experience, Sandy Stone blended her passion for animals with her business acumen and started Pet Crates and More, a business offering products aimed at providing comfort for your pets.

Go Dog Go

Remember the Dr. Seuss book, Go, Dog. Go? That was always one of my favorites--and my kid's favorites when they were little.

Well a fit dog is always on the go, and Kelly is no exception. She likes to join us on outings and vacations whenever she can. Recently I purchased two items that I thought would be helpful for fit dog active outings. One deserves a PAWS UP and one gets a PAWS DOWN.

PAWS UP:
To Go Bowl
We have several different kinds of water bottles and travel bowls for Kelly, and they work great when we're outside and put the bowl on the ground. Not so well when we're in the car and want to give her a drink. Then I found the To Go Bowl. It fits in your car's cup holder. It's really handy for short rides or longer trips.

Positives:
No more worries about the bowl tipping over and spilling
Fits easily in cup holders of all sizes
Includes a splash guard and cover
Easy and convenient!

Negatives:
There are a lot of pieces to this. While each piece is useful and increases the functionality of the bowl, it does make it difficult to keep all the pieces together and to store the pieces that you don't need. It would be nice if the pieces somehow stowed within each other or were adaptable without coming completely detached. For instance, it's easy to misplace the cover in your car!

Overall, I would not let the negatives deter you from considering the To Go Bowl. It's a handy little product and we use ours often.

PAWS DOWN:
Winnipet seat belt
I wanted to try a seatbelt for Kelly, and saw this one for a good deal on a pet product site that offers monthly specials. Unfortunately, I can't remember where I got it and I can't even find a website for the product. The seatbelt arrived with a hang tag that simply said "Winnipet, all love for it" (whatever that means) and offered no other identifying information including address, phone, website, bar code, etc. And no instructions on how to use the seatbelt.

Positives: none

Negatives: To put it bluntly, it didn't work. You'd think, as simple as this seatbelt looks, that all you'd have to do is clip one end to your dog's harness, and slide the other end into the belt, and buckle! Well, when I put the slot into the seatbelt, it wouldn't latch. The design of the seatbelt doesn't allow for the buckle to fit properly into the other end. I tried the seatbelt in several different cars, but the result was the same. What a disappointment. I'd like to return it for a refund, but have no idea where to return it!

If you have recommendations of a seatbelt that actually works, I'd love to hear them!

FitDog Friday is co-hosted by Peggy's Pet Place, Slimdoggy, and To Dog with Love. Join the FitDog Friday blog hop!

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