Why Cats Make Us Laugh

May 18, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Cats are arguably the most entertaining pets you could ever hope to have. Ask any cat owner and they will probably have at least one funny cat story to share. This has a lot to do with their intensely curious nature, but their lithe bodies certainly help quite a bit. They love lots of affection, but they have their moments where they stamp their individuality.

Pining for Attention

My friend Mitsi calls her American Bobtail Mr Frodo. She says that when he doesn’t feel like he’s getting enough attention he puts on a show. No matter where she goes he positions himself in front of her, lying on his back with his feet in the air. He squirms and twists until she rubs his tummy for a while. When he is satisfied that he has gotten his fair share he gets up and trots off to do other cat things.

What’s on TV?

Frank tells me that his cat is an avid TV watcher especially of Nascar races. Part of the fun for this Shorthair is to try to catch the cars as they zoom out of the frame. I’ve actually seen other cats doing this. Now that Franks has gotten a new Hi-Def TV, I doubt he will risk getting scratches on it. His tabby might have to find something else to amuse himself.

Doing the Laundry

Jennifer’s mixed feline sure seems to enjoy laundry day. For some reason it seems to get a kick out of watching clothes spin in the washer. In fact once she picks up the clothes and starts heading in that direction the cat will jump up and follow her.

Who’s that in the mirror?

Andrea’s Persian must think there is another cat vying for his owner’s affections. According to her, he will tiptoe to the edge of the mirror and slowly peep around the side. Not surprisingly he always sees that other cat looking back at him. She always laughs when he jumps back and hisses. For his sake she usually leaves her closet door open so he can’t see the full length mirror. Maybe, overtime he will become more accommodating.

Of course, with so many cats out there, you bet there are probably millions of similar pet stories out there. If you have any to share we would love to hear them.

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Bladder Stones in Dogs and Cats

May 12, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Just as we humans can get bladder stones, our pets can be affected by them as well. These are hard buildups of minerals that are deposited in the bladder. They occur when waste is not broken down properly, but instead solidify over time. They can also be caused by foreign matter that ends up in the bladder. Based on the name, these can easily be distinguished from kidney stones or gall stones.

Effects of Bladder Stones in Pets

Any breed of dog or cat can be affected by this condition. It has been found to be relatively common in dogs. Many dog owners are not even aware that a problem exists until the animal becomes seriously affected. Effects of the condition include:

  • Blood in the urine: This is also referred to as Hematuria, this happens when the stones damage the inside of the bladder or the urinary tract.
  • Pain: The pet may show signs of pain or discomfort while urinating or if the stomach area is touched.

Difficulty urinating: If the stones end up in the urinary tract the resulting blockage will cause problems. This condition is referred to in technical circles as Dysuria. Alert cat or dog owners may be quick to pick up on this particular sign. Untreated, bladder stones can lead to bladder infections.

Treatment Options

The right diet can help in preventing bladder stones in cats and dogs. When they do occur, the veterinarian may make some dietary recommendations. This alone however, does not always provide relief. Plus, some animals may not eat as they do not adapt to the new food. A special diet will only work with certain types of bladder stones, so focusing on prevention is the best bet.

Surgical intervention is usually the best course of action. This treatment option ensures that all the stones are removed.

Bladder stones don’t always show up on x-rays, especially if they are small. Pets that are prone to urinary tract infections do seem to have a higher incidence of the condition. You should also note that other types of pets have been known to develop the condition.

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Common Mistakes by New Cat Owners

May 9, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Being a new cat owner can present a few challenges. The sad truth is not everyone is ready for a new pet even when they think they are. Cat care is not as simple as setting up a litter box and buying cat food. For the first time cat owner especially there are a number of finer points to consider. Some of these are directly related to the health of the cat in addition to basic care of the animal. Common mistakes made by new cat owners are:

  • Not being ready: If you’re getting a cat you have to make sure that the home environment has been prepared. Check and cover up if necessary if small spaces that the animal could become trapped in. Cover your aquarium if you have one, and make sure that there is no hanging material that will allow the cat to drag items onto the floor or onto itself.
  • Being able to afford a new pet: There is expense involved in caring for cats as for many other types of pets. If your budget is tight, it may not be the right time to bring a pet into your life.
  • Making the wrong choice: Sometimes one type of pet can be the wrong fit for a home or family. For this reason, many suggest adopting very young cats so they can adjust as they grow. Don’t be too quick to adopt the first cat you see just because you like the way it looks.
  • Not getting enough information: Cat care information is essential to have a healthy and happy cat. Some new owners simply don’t know enough to address all of their pet’s needs. This includes ensuing that your feline companion gets the necessary vaccinations and scheduled visits to the veterinarian.
  • Declawing: Some new at owners are too quick to have this done. The fact that they have claws does not mean that you will get scratched or that your furniture is in danger. With love and affection, the claws stay in, and a scratching post can keep chair legs free of unsightly marks.

There are so many other things the new cat owner must keep in mind if they want to keep their new companions healthy. Bargain cat food brands are not all bad, but make sure to check the nutritionally labels. It makes sense to ask your vet about the nutritional needs of your new pet before buying cat food. If you are getting a cat for the first time, remember that it is your companion, not your property. These animals appreciate a certain amount of freedom as well as lots of attention.

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Travelling By Plane With your Cat

May 4, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Going by plane can be a hassle these days, so imagine when you have to bring your cat along. We have begun to dread the idea of long check-ins and possible flight cancellations. It’s no wonder many cat owners think it is better to find a reliable pet sitter or a pet hotel. For some of us, however, tabby has to fly.

The first thing you need to do is get a pet carrier if you don’t already have one. It might be a good idea to help your cat get used to the confining container. You don’t want to be on the flight with a cat that is irritated at being locked in. Start with a few minutes a day, while making sure you are not out of sight. Over time, you can increase the length of time you leave the cat in the carrier. Also start making yourself scarce while your pet is locked in the carrier. Over time, most cats will get used to being confined without you being close by.

Airline Specifics

If you are using a large pet carrier you will have to check it as part of your luggage. It is best to check with the airline first to find out which types they approve, and how much this will cost. Smaller cats can actually travel with you if its carrier is small enough. Of course, the carrier will have to be placed under the seat, but at least you know you will be close by to reassure the cat if necessary.

It is best to make your reservation early if you want to travel with your cat. It seems airlines like to keep a strict limit on the number of pets on each flight. Most airlines insist on a leash and ID tag.Don’t forget the pet health certificate, something that is essential for pet travel. Airlines won’t allow your cat on board without it. As I’ve outlined in a previous blog, this is easy to get at your local US Department of Agriculture (USDA) office.

Once you have all that and have worked out where your tabby will be traveling, everything else should be a breeze. The important thing is that the cat is comfortable in the carrier. Plus you will have your four-footed friend with you while away from home.

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Are Herbs Safe For Your Pets?

April 22, 2011 By Leave a Comment

The issue of using herbs is one of those that have people sharply divided on opinions. There are some who strongly believe in them, while others have more faith in modern medicine. Now, pets have been brought into the debate, as some pet owners consider herbs to be useful for preventing or treating a number of pet diseases.

The Issue of Safety

While many herbs have been used safely for centuries, there have been reported  cases of adverse side effects. Administering the correct dosage is not always easy for the inexperienced, and this too can cause problems. Giving herbs to pets is a personal choice, one that your veterinarian might not even agree with. If you decide to try it, or even if you have been doing it for a while, you should find as much information as possible. This will help keep your pets safe.

Popular Herbs For Pets

Some herbal practitioners might be able to guide you in giving certain herbs to your pets. Some of them might even be herbs that you use for yourself. Some herbs and their reported benefits are:

  • Ginger: A few drops of ginger root extract with a small meal can help to prevent car sickness on long trips. It can also maintain your pet’s digestive health.
  • Milk thistle: As it does with humans, this herb acts as a liver tonic. It helps this organ to function properly, especially if it has been weakened due to illness.
  • Chamomile: This can have a calming effect on anxious or restless cats or dogs. It can also be a helpful digestive aid, which makes it especially beneficial to older pets.
  • Essential oils: Many pet owners swear by oils like sage and eucalyptus as a powerful flea repellant.

There are herbal companies that offer their products especially for pets. These companies tend to provide correct dosage instructions based on species, age and breed. So you don’t have to worry about mixing these things yourself if you are interested in using them for your pets. Talk to other pet owners who give herbs to their pets and you might just get some useful tips. Remember that herbs are not a substitute for a good diet and lots of activity.

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