The Bengal Cat

If a cat that appears as though it has walked straight out of the wilderness and into civilization is what you want, then the Bengal cat fills that order. The Bengal cat is a hybrid breed produced by crossing the domestic cat with an Asian Leopard cat. The desire of such cross breeding is to produce a cat that looks wild, but has the temperament of a domestic cat.

Physical Body

The most distinct feature of the Bengal cat is its extremely soft, thick, and uniquely patterned coat. There are two distinct patterns recognized within the Bengal cat breed. Those are spotted and marbleized. The spotted coat is closest to its leopard ancestor, featuring leopard spots in varying shades of brown, rust, orange, sand, black, and gray. The marbleized coat is produced from the mixing of the Asian Leopard cat with a domestic tabby to produce splotches that look more like marble. In either case, the Bengal cat has a look that is both strikingly beautiful and wild.

Other than the coat, another distinguishing feature that sets it apart from other cats is its muscular body, more prominent in males than females. Bengal cats are very athletic, sleek, and muscular.

Temperament

The Bengal cat loves to be part of the family. They love to interact and play. This is not to say they will not seek out a soft chair or lap in which to lie for a nap, but for the majority of the day they are very active cats. Being a high energy cat, they are not for someone looking for a docile animal to lounge around the house and look pretty.

The exotic heritage of this cat makes it unique both in look and personality. Even though it takes five generations of Bengal-to-Bengal breeding to produce a line recognized as a Bengal cat, these felines have a wild ancestral heritage and some of those instincts can still be seen in late generations through their extreme intelligence, high energy, and innate curiosity. This is a cat that loves to play and will demand interaction with their owners but in a way that is most pleasant. Some Bengals can even be trained to walk on a leash and play fetch. It's also reported by some owners that their Bengals love water and will shower with them.

Due to the wild ancestral line of the Bengal, careful selective breeding practices are implemented by high quality Bengal cat breeders to ensure that the docile temperament of the domesticated ancestors is dominant.

Common Medical Problems

As with any breed of cat or dog, certain medical problems seem to be more commonplace than others. For the Bengal, the most common health problems seen by veterinarians are as follows:

Progressive Retinal Atrophy - This problem eventually causes blindness. There is no way to screen for this problem, so there is no way for a breeder to tell if a kitten will have problems later on.

Cataracts - Thickening and clouding of the eye lens, causing loss of vision over a period of time and eventual blindness. This problem can be reversed since cataract surgery is available for cats.

Cardiomyopathy - This covers both thickening of the heart muscles and thinning of the heart muscles, both causing very poor circulation. Cats stricken with this condition can appear healthy for a very long time and then suddenly appear very ill.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease - This is a condition in which an infection is present within the digestive tract. The symptoms of this condition are typically vomiting and diarrhea. Any Bengal showing symptoms should be taken to the veterinarian immediately to avoid dehydration.

Food Poisoning - Bengals have especially sensitive stomachs. For this reason, their diets should be carefully monitored and table scraps should never be on the menu.

One medical problem you'll never have to worry about with the Bengal cat and possibly their most fascinating feature is they possess an apparent immunity to feline leukemia. This is an inherited trait that the Bengal cat received from its ancestor the Asian Leopard cat.

Bengal cats are one of the most interesting breeds in existence today. From their wild markings to their playful and loving demeanor, Bengal's are an absolute joy to have around the house, especially in a household with children. If a cat who acts more like a family member is desired, the Bengal cat is a great choice.

Heated Cat Beds Help Outdoor Cats Survive Winter Temperatures

Cold temperatures can be difficult even for the healthiest of pets. Prolonged expose to the cold for a cat can result in frost bite, hypothermia, and possibly even death. Additionally, the stress on the body caused by prolonged exposure to the cold will reduces the life expectancy of a cat living in the outdoors. Some people are fooled into thinking that just because a cat has a thick fur coat they will be safe from the effect of prolonged cold temperatures. But their fur coat is simply not enough to keep them sufficiently warm during winter temperatures. The overall best practice is to just keep your cat inside during the winter. But, if the situation is such that the cat you are trying to protect is completely outside, here are a few suggestions and practices that will help.

1. Dry, warm shelter is paramount. If a human were left outside in the cold to survive for an extended period of time, one of the first things he would need to find in order to survive would be dry, warm shelter. The same is true for a cat trying to survive cold temperatures. Providing the cat full-time access to a garage, shed or barn is a great start. If this is not possible than providing an insulated cat house placed in a nook away from the weather elements is another good option. The house should be small in size, i.e., just large enough for perhaps two-three cats to go inside and turn around. The small size will help to conserve body heat. The house should also utilize insulation with a high R-value sandwiched in the walls, roof and floor. It is suggested that the interior seams of the house also be sealed so that moisture does not find its way in. The door of the house should be oriented away from the elements such as wind, rain, snow and sleet. A clear path should always be kept to avoid the cat becoming potentially snow bound.

But no matter the shelter that you choose to provide, the cat will also need to be supplied with ample bedding in order to stay warm. A thick bedding of cedar chips or straw can suffice. Blankets and towels are definitely not recommended since once they are wet; they become cold and very difficult to dry. The best option for outdoor shelter venues whether it is a garage, covered porch, barn, shed or cat house is an outdoor heated cat bed. These beds are made of soft PVC and do not absorb water, always providing comfortable warmth even in below freezing temperatures. They also use very low wattage and are efficient. A heated cat bed not only can give you some piece of mind, but it will become your kitty's favorite spot, knowing it will have warmth and comfort from those harsh winter temperatures. It will become their haven, their rescue from an inhospitable temperature environment.

2. Provide and maintain plenty of water. A constant supply of clean, unfrozen water is very important to minimize the risk of dehydration.. The water source should be protected from the elements or heated to prevent freezing. Low-wattage heated bowls work very well as a solution in making certain unfrozen water is always available. As a lower budget option, you can use spray foam insulation on the underside of a deep plastic water bowl. This will help slow the freezing process, but will not eliminate it. So make sure warm water is placed in the bowl regularly.

3. Provide plenty of food. As with any physically body, whether it is human or animal, high levels of calories are burned by the body in just keeping itself warm. So make sure an ample supply of nutritious food is provided. Cats that spend time outside simply need more to eat. Feeding on a regular schedule is also important. Your cat will come to expect the food and will be waiting for it; therefore the food will spend less time in the cold. Ideally, you can provide your cat with a simple feeding station that includes a roof and sides so that your cat will be protected from the elements while it dines.

Cats need protection from the dangers of winter temperatures. Of course, keeping your cat indoors is always the safest and most effective way to promote their good health. But if your cat is going to have prolonged exposure to the cold it is imperative to provide dry shelter and a constant source of warmth which is best provided by a heated pet bed. Keep in mind that if the weather is too cold for you to comfortably spend long period of time outside, then it is probably too cold for your cat as well.

7 Tips to Entice Your Cat to Drink More Water

Most cat owners can attest to the fact that cats are finicky. They will only eat certain kinds of food out of a certain type of bowl. What many people don't realize is that this rule applies to water as well. In general, cats do not drink enough water and this can lead to various health problems, but these problems can be avoided simply by observing the likes and dislikes of a feline with regards to water preferences.

To entice a cat to drink more water takes a little trial and error, but once the magical combination is found, a cat owner should have no problem with their cat remaining hydrated. Below are seven tips to encourage your furry friend to drink up!

1. Water Type
Many people think water is water, but this is not entirely true. There are various types of water from tap water to distilled to mineral. Each cat will have their own preference. Try putting out several bowls of different types of water and see which one they prefer, but make sure all the bowls are identical, as this can be a factor as well in whether or not a cat will drink.

2. Bowls
The type of bowl makes a huge difference. Stainless steel or ceramic will have the highest rate of success. Plastic is a porous material and tends to soak up odor. While a human may not be able to smell it, a cat will and may not want to drink it thinking the water is tainted. One must remember that cats are generally very picky about cleanliness.

3. Cleanliness
Water bowls should be cleaned with hot soapy water on a daily basis. Nobody likes to drink out of a dirty glass. It's logical to believe a cat does not enjoy it either.

4. Placement
Cats also have a preference of where they want their water placed. Try placing several bowls throughout the house and see which ones show signs of having been used.

5. Multiple Cats
Having multiple cats in the home means having multiple food bowls, but it also means having multiple water bowls as well. Smelling another cat around their water bowl can deter the desire to drink water. Nobody likes drinking after another human being and cats do not like drinking after another cat either.

6. Food Additive
Until a cat owner is able to find the best way to encourage their cat to drink water, it may be necessary to use it as a food additive to ensure the cat stays hydrated. Water can be added to either dry or wet food. A bowl of water may also be "flavored" by adding chicken broth or some tuna juice. Normally a cat that will not drink water will go after a bowl of watered down broth.

7. Running Water
If all else fails, chances are the feline is one that prefers running water. It must be an instinct from the wild to prefer running water as opposed to stagnant, but many cat owners report their cats will only drink running water. To check the cats' preference, simply turn on a faucet part way (high water pressure will most likely scare the poor thing) and place the cat next to the sink. There is a good chance the cat will investigate it cautiously at first and then start to drink. If the cat enjoys 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 purchased to facilitate this.

The Importance of Hydration
Feline dehydration can be caused by many different factors from lack of available drinking water to illness. It's extremely important to ensure a cat doesn't become dehydrated, especially for those felines afflicted by diabetes or renal failure, as those two illnesses in particular cause increased urination which in turn causes increased risk for dehydration. The symptoms of dehydration are constipation, lethargy, dry mouth, sunken eyes, increased heart rate, poor skin elasticity, and poor capillary refill time. There are two tests an owner can perform to check for skin elasticity and capillary refill.

To check skin elasticity, grasp some skin at the base of the neck and then release. If the skin does not spring back immediately, the feline is in a state of dehydration.

To check capillary refill time, press a finger against the cats gum. Once the finger is removed, a white spot will be present. Time how long it takes for the white spot to turn pink again. It should only take one to two seconds. If it takes longer than that, the cat is dehydrated.

Enough cannot be said about ensuring a feline remains hydrated. A cat stuck inside a home or apartment 24/7 without water to drink that they enjoy, can easily lead to a state of dehydration. It's extremely important to monitor a cat's rate of water consumption and, if low, take measures to improve that rate. Dehydration can greatly shorten a feline's life, but it's normally a very preventable problem that only takes a little observation and trial and error to correct.

Skin Allergies In Cats - Overcoming Them The Holistic Way

Skin allergies in cats are not uncommon. Their incidence is rising. An allergy is a hypersensitivity to something, which the immune system is unable to deal with. Usually the allergy is to an external, or environmental factor, or allergen.

These factors can be the same as in anyone such as dust, pollen, plants, food ingredients, insect bites, insecticides, toxins in the environment, etc. Some are seasonal.

The main symptoms of skin allergies in cats is an increased or continual licking and constant scratching. Obviously there is an extreme itch going on that we can't see or feel. Common areas are the groin, the base of the tail and the sides.

Skin allergies are often called atopic dermatitis. They can be mild or severe and anything in between. Severe allergies can result in the cat self harming in their desperate attempt to ease the itch.

The factors which lead to skin allergies in cats are only the stimulants. They are not the cause. The real cause is an area that doesn't appear on the veterinary horizon, for a variety of reasons, which are beyond the scope of this article.

Vaccinations are known to be one of the main causes of allergies. Most people believe that by vaccinating their cat against the common feline diseases, they are improving the health of their cat. Nothing could be further from the truth.

Let's look at the common ingredients in vaccines. Depending on the species and the vaccine, these will vary, but the common ingredients include:

thimerosal - a mercury derivative

formaldehyde - a strong preservative used to embalm dead bodies

aluminium salts - considered linked to alzheimers disease

phenol - a derivative from coal tar

various animal cells, proteins or DNA - cross species and ethical issues

monosodium glutamate - known for many health related problems

aspartame - known for many health related issues

sorbitol - an alcohol

hydrolised protein - hydrolising is a known health hazard

Injecting these directly into the blood of any animal creates an immediate immune response. However, this is not a healthy response, as all the normal, subtle paths have been bypassed. Instead, the immune response is not unlike when bitten by a poisonous snake.

Many cats do become resistant to that particular strain of that particular disease, but this comes at a price. The immune system takes a tumble. This means that overall your cat is less healthy.

A common side effect of vaccines is allergies, but they don't stop there. Here are a couple of statements from medical doctors, which you may find interesting. The same applies to veterinary vaccines.

Rebecca Carley M.D - "If children receive all recommended vaccines, they will receive 2,370 times the "allowable safe limit" for mercury in the first two years of life (as if there is such a thing as a "safe" amount of a toxic poison)."

Russell L. Blaylock M D Neurosurgeon - "Most have at least heard about the controversy surrounding possible harmful effects of some of the vaccines. What is less well known is that even greater dangers exist than are being conveyed to the general public. Much of this information is buried in highly technical scientific journals beyond the reach and understanding of the average person."

There are other, far safer ways to prevent your cat from getting disease. The first thing is to ensure you take care of their immune system, This is the key to health. And there are three important ways to do this:

quality, natural, nutritious food

healthy lifestyle

holistic health care

You can learn more about this by clicking on the link below.

Understand the natural law of cause and effect. Eliminate the cause and the effect disappears. You can avoid skin allergies in cats. And for those already affected, following the same protocol will help, if not totally cure the problem.

Sureflap Microchip Cat Flap For Your Home

As a nation of cat lovers, we all know how much our cats like to come and go and have their own freedom and space, generally doing as they please and we as their owners like to fulfill those wishes. Cat flaps are a way of ensuring your pet can have his or her freedom, while at the same time keeping the home secure.

Many cats go off on their adventures, playing with others, marking out their territory and all sorts of fun exploring, but when the cat decides its time to return home to its family, what you do not want is him or her bringing their mates back home with them. There has been many a time that cat owners have returned home to find that they have acquired an extra cat in their home, due to the cheeky newcomer using the cat flap for the resident pet.

This can sometimes cause problems between cats such as; your pet may get territorial with the other cat and mark territory or even have a scuffle, the other cat may be not be neutered which could be a problem if yours are not neutered either, the newcomer may not be house trained and could cause destruction, plus many more other important concerns.

The answer to this problem is to purchase a Sureflap Microchip Cat Flap which is completely unlike the normal pet flaps. This invention has a Sureflap microchip, which is an innovative work of art and it really does show how advanced technology has become these days. How it works is very simple; Once this is set into learn mode, you should ensure your cat passes through it, once he or she has passed all the way through and is out the other side, the special microchip technology in the device will save your cats personal microchip I.D. into the built in memory, by doing this it ensures that the flap will only allow access to your very own cats inside the home which ensures the problem is solved. The benefits of this microchip design are, the cat flap fitting is easy, as it will fit most standard doors, walls and windows, it also has a magnetic latch, which will ensure that other daring felines cannot successfully open the microchip cat flap and roam free around your house.

This Sureflap cat flap also works if you own quite a few cats, as up to a whopping 32 ID's can be stored, so it is very economical, especially if you own more than one mini tiger! It is compatible with your cats own existing microchip, which means that your cat doesn't have to wear a special tag or collar to enable this system to work. As well as looking smart and modern this product really does the required job of being a secure electronic cat flap very well and you can rest assured that there will be no more unexpected visitors sitting on your couch when you return home.

About Persian Cats

Of all the cat breeds in the world, none is more distinctive or highly recognized than the Persian. Their look is almost stately, conjuring images of riches and opulence, especially white Persian cats, but this breed brings to the table more than simply good looks. Their calm and loving temperament makes them a joy to have around the house and a wonderful, loyal companion.

History
Persians have a lengthy and interesting history. They were first thought to have originated in Iran, which is where Persia once existed. Although this may be true, the modern Persian breed has lost its genetic signature. The modern breed we see today is felt to have, for the most part, developed in Western Europe, specifically Britain. It was not until after World War II that American breeders recognized the inherent beauty of the Persian and began breeding them. Now, the Persian is the most popular breed in the United States.

Characteristics
Persians are set apart from other breeds by their extremely thick coat, wide head, large eyes, and shortened muzzle. In the United States, a movement began in the 1950′s to produce an exaggeratedly flat face, known as peke-faced, but this gave way to health problems. While the peke-faced look is still very popular, the health problems associated with it caused many breeders in the mid-1990′s to abandon selective breeding practices to produce that characteristic. The traditional look of the Persian includes a more elongated muzzle than what we see today and many are now selectively breeding to produce the more traditional looking version of the breed.

Temperament
Dignified, calm, and gentle are three words that come to mind when describing the personality of the Persian. They are very quiet and affectionate, making them a favorite for apartment dwellers. They are content in nearly any environment so long as they are afforded enough attention. Although they do well around other pets, Persians need human companionship and should not be left alone for long periods of time.

Grooming
It should be noted that while most cats are able to groom themselves, the extra dense coat of the Persian prevents it from being able to do so. Regular bathing and brushing of the coat is necessary to keep the coat from matting. Additionally, the large eyes of the Persian can cause excessive tears that run down the face of the cat. Any ocular discharge and crusting should be cleaned each day to prevent staining of the fur around the eyes.

Variations
Persian cats have such a long and extensive history and have been popular for so long that there are many variations of the breed, some of which have given birth to other popular breeds. Himalayans are, in fact, a result of cross breeding Persians with Siamese cats. Exotic short-hair versions of the Persian breed were a result of crossing Persians with American Short-Hair cats. In South Africa, breeders were successful at selectively breeding specific characteristics to produce what is now known as the Chinchilla Longhair breed, featuring a longer muzzle and translucent hair with dark tips.

Health Concerns
The distinctive facial features of the Persian, especially in the peke-faced variations, can cause breathing and eye difficulties. Excessive tearing and corneal damage due to eyelashes rubbing against the eye are also two common problems with this breed. Aside from this, birthing problems are also common in this breed and the rate of stillbirths is much higher in Persians than other breeds at between 16% and 22%. Other health problems that may be seen in Persian cats are polycystic kidney disease, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and progressive retinal atrophy.

Persian Cat Rescue
It's hard to believe, but there are Persians out there who do not have a loving home. Even this beautiful, distinctive cat sometimes finds itself in need of adoption for one reason or another and there are rescue centers scattered throughout the country that have Persians available for adoption.

One such rescue center is www.persiancats.org. It should be noted that this website does not ship cats due to the stress it causes the animal and the number of cats that are in need of good homes everywhere. They recommend searching local shelters and rescue centers first. Any individual visiting the website above should be forewarned that the sweet, beautiful faces they are about to see will indeed pull on the heartstrings and they just might find themselves on the phone shortly searching local shelters for a Persian of their own.

Plants That Are Toxic To Cats

In most cases, people who love their animals also love their houseplants. Houseplants breathe life into a home just like owning a cat does. It seems both pets and houseplants go hand-in-hand, but in reality they can be a deadly combination if the owner is not aware of which plants are toxic to their furry friends.

Any cat owner who also dabbles in gardening or owns houseplants should familiarize themselves with the list below. It's a surprising list to say the least. Many very common and useful plants are on this list. Even the aloe vera plant, known for its medicinal value as a topical treatment for cuts and burns, is poisonous to cats. Even more surprising is that tomato and pea plants are toxic to cats as well. It's a scary feeling to read this list and count the number of common plants lying around the house just waiting to poison the beloved feline of the home.

House Plants Toxic to Cats:

1. Aloe Vera - Symptoms: Vomiting, tremors, diarrhea, anorexia, depression, and a change in the color of urine.

2. Asparagus Fern - Symptoms: Allergic dermatitis, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.

3. Baby's Breath - Symptoms: Vomiting and diarrhea.

4. Begonia - Symptoms: Irritation and burning of the oral cavity, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.

5. Bird of Paradise Flower - Symptoms: Mild nausea, vomiting, and drowsiness.

6. Caladium (also known as Elephant Ears or Taro) - Symptoms: Irritation and burning of the oral cavity, excessive drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing.

7. Cardboard Palm - Symptoms: Liver failure, excessive thirst, bruising, melena, hemorrhagic gastroenteritis, vomiting, pathy, liver damage, liver failure and death.

8. Carnation - Symptoms: Mild gastrointestinal signs and mild dermatitis.

9. Ceriman - Symptoms: Irritation and burning of the oral cavity, vomiting, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.

10. Charming Dieffenbachia - Symptoms: Irritation and burning of the oral cavity, vomiting, excessive drooling, and difficulty swallowing.

11. Chinese Jade - Symptoms: Nausea and retching.

12. Chrysanthemum - Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, hyper-salivation, in-coordination, and dermatitis.

13. Coleus - Symptoms: Vomiting blood, bloody diarrhea, depression, and anorexia.

14. Corn Plant - Symptoms: Vomiting blood, depression, anorexia, hyper-salivation, and dilated pupils.

15. Cyclamen - Symptoms: Salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, cardiac arrhythmia, seizure, and death.

16. Daffodil (also known as narcissus) - Symptoms: Vomiting, excessive salivation, diarrhea, convulsions, low blood pressure, tremors, and cardiac arrhythmia.

17. Dahlia - Symptoms: Mild gastrointestinal signs and mild dermatitis.

18. Dieffenbachia - Symptoms: Irritation and burning of the oral cavity, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.

19. Everlasting Pea (also known as Sweet Pea) - Symptoms: Weakness, lethargy, pacing, head pressing, tremors, seizures, and possibly death.

20. Fig (also known as Indian Rubber Plant) - Symptoms: Dermatitis, oral irritation, excessive salivation, and vomiting.

21. Flamingo Flower - Symptoms: Irritation and burning of the oral cavity, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.

22. Florida Beauty - Symptoms: Dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, increased heart-rate, abdominal pain, vomiting, depression, in-coordination, weakness, and drooling.

23. Hyacinth, both Garden Hyacinth and Water Hyacinth are toxic to dogs and cats. Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, dermatitis, and allergic reactions.

24. Gladiola - Symptoms: Vomiting, drooling, lethargy, diarrhea.

25. Hellebore - Symptoms: Drooling, abdominal pain, diarrhea, colic, and depression.

26. Hosta - Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, depression.

27. Ivy is yet another botanical genre that should be avoided by pet owners. Many different species of ivy are toxic to both dogs and cats. The variations to especially watch for are the Branching Ivy, English ivy, Devil's Ivy (also known as Golden Pothos), and Sweetheart Ivy - Symptoms: Irritation and burning of the oral cavity, excessive drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing.

28. Jade Plant (also known as Chinese or Japanese Rubber Plant) - Symptoms: Vomiting, depression, ataxia, and slow heart rate.

29. Kiss-me-quick - Symptoms: Tremors, seizures (for several days), diarrhea, vomiting, excessive salivation, lethargy, in-coordination, and coughing.

30. Lacy Tree Philodendron - Symptoms: Irritation and burning of the oral cavity, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.

31. Lily Family - Nearly all lilies are toxic to both dogs and cats. The variations to especially watch for are Amaryllis, Arum Lily, Asian Lily, Stargazer Lily, Barbados Lily, Clivia Lily, Desert Azalea, Easter Lily, Giant Dracaena (also known as the Palm Lily), Lily-Of-The-Valley, Orange Day Lily, Tiger Lily, Trumpet Lily, and Wood Lily. With so many different species of lilies that are toxic to cats and dogs alike, it's best for pet owners to simply avoid lilies altogether. Symptoms: Diarrhea, depression, vomiting, abdominal pain, hyper-salivation, anorexia, tremors, excessive drooling, irritation to oral cavity, difficulty swallowing, cardiac arrhythmia, convulsions, kidney failure, and death.

32. Mistletoe - Symptoms: Gastrointestinal problems, cardiovascular collapse, difficulty breathing, slow heart rate, odd behavior that would point to signs of hallucinations, vomiting, and diarrhea.

33. Nephthytis - Symptoms: Irritation and burning of the oral cavity, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.

34. Orange - Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, depression, and sometimes photo-sensitivity.

35. Pencil Cactus - Symptoms: Irritation of the oral cavity and vomiting.

36. Poinsettia - Symptoms: Irritation of the oral cavity and vomiting.

37. Primrose - Symptoms: Mild vomiting.

38. Spring Parsley - Symptoms: Photo-sensitivity, ulcerative dermatitis, exudative dermatitis, and ocular toxicity.

39. Tomato Plant - Symptoms: Excessive drooling, loss of appetite, diarrhea, vomiting, drowsiness, depression, confusion, bradycardia (slow heart rate), dilated pupils, weakness, and change in behavior.

40. Tulip - Symptoms: Vomiting, depression, diarrhea, and excessive drooling.

41. Yucca - Symptoms: Vomiting and diarrhea.

It should be noted that many of these plants are popular flowers used in arrangements. Even though a cat owner has taken great care to ensure their home and yard is free from these toxic plants, any flower arrangements brought into the home should also be kept out of reach of your cat.

It should never be assumed that a cat will instinctively leave a toxic plant alone. Thousands of cats are taken to the veterinarian each year on an emergency basis due to ingestion of a toxic houseplant. By becoming familiar with this list, a cat owner can rest assured their home is a safe environment for their beloved feline.

Cat Care Tips - Info on Cat Enteritis

Enteritis is a very serious disease for cats. It's often referred to as distemper, which is a disease that dogs commonly get. However, cat 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.

Cat 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 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 cat 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 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 this disease. 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 cat 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.

Cats Health Care - Natural Is Best!

Cats health care is complex, but simple at the same time. This seemingly contradictory statement stems from how humans view the world. All humans have a belief system set up, that is personal and based on their upbringing, their culture, their environment, their education, their religion, etc. When any of this is challenged, it can feel very uncomfortable, unsafe even.

Cats health care is complex because every aspect of your cat's life needs to be examined. No stone can be left unturned. This is regardless of what you feel is good for your cat or not. Your preconceptions must not get in the way. You need to be very open minded.

So when you feel that you cannot examine an aspect that perhaps you need to, that may be necessary to get to the route of the problem your cat may be suffering with, you may be challenging your current belief system. Scary stuff indeed!

Cats health care is simple, because when you look at the whole picture, in its entirety, it can be easy to see where and why your cat may have a health issue.

Let's first look at how cats in the wild live. This is how they evolved. This is why cats are so successful today.

At least three things spring to mind immediately - diet, freedom and health care.

Let's deal with the last one first, as most people would be asking 'where is health care in the wild'?

Animals seek out medicinal plants and herbs, to cure a variety of problems. They know which ones are good for any given ailment. They are far more savvy than the average human. Grass is a good example - cats use it to clear a digestive problem.

Animals also know that rest and sleep can cure a large number of problems. Field doctors in a war zone discovered this too. They found that the patients they were unable to help immediately, fared far better than those they got to first.

There is a magic to life that most humans know little about. Self healing is very strong in every living being.

The second item, freedom, may not be optional for many cats for safety reasons. However, cats are free spirited and do suffer without some freedom. It is well known that cats confined indoors all the time are less healthy and life shorter lives, than those who have free access outside.

How you go about addressing this depends on where you live. Securing a safe back yard may be an option for you. Some breeds take well to walking on a lead. Just making a closed run where they can feel the grass and the sun, may make all the difference to their lives.

Probably diet is the most important aspect of everyone's health care. Yet diet is dismissed by many as being irrelevant to health. That's a bit like saying that the type of fuel you put in your car is immaterial to how it performs.

The fact is that the typical commercial cat foods fed to most cats is the cause of most of their health issues. It also means that by changing the diet of your cat to a natural one, it is highly likely that they will improve or even recover from their health problem.

Cats health care begins and ends by looking at the whole picture. Start by feeding your cat real, quality, nutritious food and watch the results.
For more information on a natural diet and health care for cats, click on the link below.

A Look at Rhinotracheitis in Cats

The herpes virus causes many problems for your cat, with one of them being the development of rhinotracheitis. This condition mainly causes upper respiratory infections in your cat, and can also lead to eye problems like conjunctivitis.

Feline rhinotracheitis is mainly a problem for young kittens. However, young ones can harbor the virus for years without showing an outward signs in the meantime. Cats that are infected with the leukemia or immunodeficiency viruses have a major risk of being infected with this one. If your cat frequently displays signs of this condition, then it may be a sign that something more serious is wrong.

The virus that causes rhinotracheitis in cats doesn't prompt symptoms right away. The incubation period, the time in which cats don't display signs, typically lasts for a few days up to a couple of weeks. This can prove problematic for households with multiple cats, since felines can infect others despite not showing signs themselves.

The signs of feline rhinotracheitis are quite similar to those of other upper respiratory infections. Cats will start coughing, sneezing, and producing discharge from their nose. The nasal lining and the eyelid lining may also become inflamed. The former is referred to as rhinitis, while the later is called conjunctivitis.

Cats commonly have a fever while battling this condition too. Others will lose their appetite until they start feeling a little better. Rhinotracheitis in felines can cause cats to display just a few of these symptoms or all of them at once.

There isn't an exact testing method to diagnose feline rhinotracheitis. Your vet will simply need to look at the signs that your cat is displaying while taking his medical history into account. It isn't always easy to identify this condition accurately.

Even if rhinotracheitis in cats were diagnosed, there is no way for vets to treat your cat. The disease usually runs its course after a week or so. In the meantime, supportive measures can be provided for your pet.

Since cats with rhinotracheitis have nasal discharge that can make it difficult to breathe, nasal decongestants are usually provided. Keeping your cat in a room with a humidifier or vaporizer going will also help him breathe better. Owners need to wipe away secretions from the eyes and nose to help minimize the risk of their cats getting reinfected.

Once feline rhinotracheitis compromises the immune system, secondary bacterial infections can easily set in. Your cat may need to take antibiotics to keep these infections from causing additional problems.

This condition is highly contagious. If you have one cat that has been infected, it's best to keep him away from other felines for a while. If not, you will likely be dealing with multiple sick cats at once.

There is a vaccine to protect against feline rhinotracheitis. However, it doesn't always keep cats from being infected entirely. Those that have been vaccinated though likely won't experience serious stages of the disease.

All About Siamese Cats

Siamese cats are one of the most beloved breeds amongst cat lovers, and understandably so. There are many reasons to love a Siamese cat from their blue eyes peering through the dark patch on their face to their high level of intelligence and energy. From their history to their personality, Siamese cats are a very unique breed.

Breed History
Siamese cats originated in Thailand in the 14th century. At that time, they were reserved for the royal families who would then bestow them on visiting dignitaries. They first showed up in the United States some time in the late 1800's. The first documented Siamese feline to show up in the United States was a gift to First Lady Lucy Hayes. In present-day, Siamese cats rank fifth in popularity in the United States according to the Cat Fancier's Association.

Basic Breed Information
Female Siamese cats usually end up weighing between six to ten pounds with a height of twenty-one inches, while males usually weigh between nine and fourteen pounds and grow to a height of twenty-three inches. Their trademark look includes a wedge-shaped head with deep blue eyes, sleek body, and large pointed ears. Their coat is also a trademark feature with a cream-colored torso and dark areas on the face, ears, and feet. This is caused by a mutated enzyme in the pigment. There are four official colors of the Siamese breed of cat as recognized by the Cat Fancier's Association. These colors include seal, chocolate, blue, and lilac. Blue and lilac are simply diluted versions of the seal and chocolate colors.

Siamese Cat Personality and Temperament
Although very social cats, they are not necessarily the best choice for a household with children. They are generally very dedicated and loyal to their owners and love to talk. Many cat owners say their Siamese will always tell them what is on their minds and are not shy about making their demands known.

Always playful and loving, the Siamese breed does not entail the normal aloof feline attitude. They are known as the eternal kitten; the cat that never grows up. They display a more social personality than other breeds, even in the presence of other domestic animals.

They are a joy to own and even more fun to watch as they play amongst themselves or with the other cat and dog residents with whom they live. Their high level of intelligence is one of their signature characteristics. Many Siamese cat owners report their cats are able to be trained to perform tricks and learn their names very quickly.

Common Medical Problems
Unfortunately, just like with all breeds of cats and dogs, the Siamese cat also has certain medical conditions to which it is genetically predisposed. Many people know about the cross-eyed and kink-tailed abnormalities inherent in the Siamese breed, but these problems have been all but completely eliminated through careful breeding. There are two problems, however, that are still present in the genetic code of this breed. These two problems are gingivitis and a liver-destroying disease called amyloidosis.

While gingivitis can be prevented through proper dental care, amyloidosis is a much more serious illness caused by abnormally high levels of amyloid deposited in the liver. Amyloid is a fibrous protein and when high levels are present in the liver, it can cause hemorrhaging and renal failure. Symptoms include yellowing of the skin or eyes, vomiting, lack of energy, enlarged abdomen, anorexia, and excessive thirst in the presence of excessive urination.

Siamese Cat Rescue
After hearing about all the wonderful characteristics inherent in the Siamese breed of cat, chances are you are wondering where you can get one of your own. There are rescue coalitions that specialize in the rescue, care, and adoption of Siamese cats. One such organization is called Texas Siamese Rescue and is based out of Dallas, Texas.

To adopt a Siamese cat through this organization a fee of between $100 and $175 will be charged to partially cover the plethora of veterinarian services and tests this particular adoption center requires for each feline that moves through their facility. To check into this adoption service, simply visit their website at http://tx.siameserescue.org/

The Siamese is by far one of the most intelligent and fun-loving cat breeds around. It is no wonder they are favorites among cat lovers.

Cat Christmas Ornaments Make Great Gifts For Cat Lovers

I found some wonderful Christmas ornaments and they would make the perfect gift for a cat lover. How do I know? I happen to be a cat lover and that makes me quite an expert in this field.

You will recognize some of the ornaments by name when you read them, but some will not be familiar to you and those are the ones you will probably find most interesting. Some of these Christmas tree decorations are cute, some are funny, some are big, other small, all are beautiful and will look wonderful upon someone's holiday tree. Perhaps it will be your tree.

Have you ever heard of The Cat In A Hat By Dr. Seuss? There's an ornament based on that children's story, in fact, there are several for you to choose from. Another cat decoration theme based on a popular children's character is Hello Kitty. There are so many Kitty ornaments to choose from and any fan of Miss Kitty White will be thrilled with one of these beauties. The Pink Panther and the Cheshire Cat also make an appearance on my cat ornament list.

Other Christmas ornament makers you've heard of are Lenox, Radko, Kurt Adler, and of course, the Krinkles line designed by Patience Brewster. These are very popular holiday decorations for trees, wreaths, and anywhere you decide to put them. Each has a different style and charm.

The Lenox cat ornaments are made in the familiar colors of most Lenox. They are dainty, delicate and lovely, just right for a cat lover who admires the classic lines Lenox is known for.

Old World ornament fans will appreciate the Christopher Radko designs. It was the Radko ornaments that brought back a love for these old world, handmade and painted decorations. You can see they are made with care as soon as you see them. The cat styles are unique and anyone of them would make a great gift for the cat lover on your list.

Kurt Adler has a style all his own, and his Christmas decoration and ornament line is more varied than the Christopher Radko ornaments. His line includes a tiger, a pair of crystal spun glass ornaments and the Noble Gems line.

Krinkles come from the fanciful imagination of Patience Brewster. Her works of Christmas art are full of whimsy and fun, and anyone who collects her work will smile each time they look upon it.

There are many other style Christmas ornaments with a cat theme, each of them a cat lovers dream gift, and you can see them all by visiting Christmas Cat Ornaments. Find the special cat ornament to add to your collection or to give to the cat lover on your Christmas list.

Cold In Your Cat: Holistic Remedies For The Cat Flu

Your cat is suddenly sneezing, with runny eyes, and you may be asking yourself: Does my cat have a cold or the cat flu? In this article I will give you a better understanding of what the cat flu is, and in particular what causes this. More importantly you will find out which natural at home remedies work, and the ones you can use to ultimately eliminate this disease from recurring in your cat.

The most obvious sign is a cat with a runny nose, often accompanied by swollen and runny eyes. Most cats will also be sneezing. Your cat may be lethargic, and unwilling to eat or drink. The cat flu is recurring in most cats, with repeated bouts of sneezing, runny eyes, and runny nose. There are two feline viruses are responsible for most cases of cat flu, a Feline Herpes virus ( Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis ) and Feline Calicivirus. Some cats can be infected as kittens and constantly harbor the virus, making them prone to repeated infections. In most cases, the virus will run its course in 7-10 days, so supportive care is needed.

The big question then becomes what you can do at home. Before you consider at home remedies, ensure that your cat is at least eating and drinking. Cats can become very ill, getting a condition called hepatic lipidosis after not eating in as little as 48 hours. If your cat is still eating and drinking, then consider some of the following remedies.

One of the best ways to help your cat's immune system is by ensuring adequate food intake. Warm up her favorite canned food, or add a small amount (1/8 teaspoon) of garlic. If her regular food is not appetizing, then switch to canned tuna.

In veterinary practice, many a client was able to find relief with increasing moisture.Humidity is fabulous for easing congestion and improving breathing. Use a humidifier or put your cat in the bathroom and turn up the shower.

Open up your cat's clogged up airways and eyes with a few simple steps. You can use a damp cloth to wipe crusted discharge around the nose and eyes. For some cats with severe nasal congestion I have used Pediatric Otrivin. Use one drop in each nostril 3 times daily for 3-5 days.

There are 2 herbs which I have used many times for cats with respiratory infections; Echinacea and lemon balm. Echinacea is the most important herb, the cat dose is 1-2 drops per pound 3 times daily (of alcohol-free tincture). Give for no longer than 2 weeks. Lemon balm has been shown to have antiviral activity. Give 500 mg twice daily.

The last remedy I want to discuss may be the most important one: it is the amino acid, L-lysine. L-lysine has proven antiviral activity, and is a mainstay in treating and curing cats with recurrent Herpes Virus respiratory infections. It comes as a Veterinary paste, (Enisyl), and in my supplement Dr Jones' Ultimate Feline Health Formula. The dose is 1 ml (250 mg) twice daily for at least 12 weeks.

If your cat has the cat flu, you should be implementing some of my suggested at home remedies. Ensure first that your cat is eating and drinking; if not see your veterinarian and provide immediate supportive care. Consider the use of a humidifier to ease congestion, along with Pediatric Otrivin to open the obstructed nasal passages. Lastly I urge you to look at giving your cat L-lysine for 3-4 months in an attempt to prevent the virus from recurring.

Information Owners Need to Know About Bordetella in Felines

Dog owners are likely familiar with kennel cough. Cats can also develop a version of the disease known as feline bordetella although it is much less common. The bacteria responsible for this illness is closely related to bacteria that causes the disease in dogs and humans.

The bacteria responsible for bordetella in cats is known as Bordetella bronchiseptica. If the bacteria infects your cat, it will lead to respiratory issues. The risk of becoming infected with it also rises dramatically if your kitty has a viral infection of some sort.

Cat bordetella is highly contagious, and coughing or sneezing is enough to transmit the bacteria.. Shelters can especially experience problems since there are plenty of felines in close proximity to each other. The disease can easily pass between animals if there are multiple cats in the household. Dogs have also been known to pass the disease to cats in some cases.

Adults with feline bordetella usually don't have any trouble getting over the infection. However, kittens can be devastated by the disease and even die from it if it progresses. Signs of an infection are very similar to other upper respiratory infections such as herpes virus and calicivirus.

Despite the fact that bordetella in cats is often referred to as kennel cough, coughing isn't quite as common with felines as it is with dogs battling the disease. Most cats will experience discharge from the nose and sneezing. Discharge may also come from the eyes. Other possible signs of the condition include depression, loss of appetite, and fever.

Cat bordetella doesn't always lead to noticeable signs. Your feline may simply be a carrier of the disease. Carriers don't display signs, but are capable of passing the disease on to other animals.

As mentioned, the signs of feline bordetella are quite similar to other respiratory infections. Simply taking a look at your cat won't be enough to make a proper diagnosis of this condition. That's why the veterinarian will need to rule those other possibilities out. A swab of the nose will need to be done.

Kittens with the disease will likely need to be provided with supportive care. Antibiotics are the main way that bordetella in felines is treated. Since there are various types of antibiotics, the vet needs to choose which specific one he thinks will be most effective.

Owners should know that there is a vaccination to protect against feline bordetella. It is usually best to get your cat vaccinated against the disease even if he or she is an adult. At the very least, you should discuss your options with your vet.

Information on Cat Rabies

As far as viruses go, the one that causes feline rabies is one of the most well-known. There is no way to treat rabid cats or any type of animal, so they'll eventually pass away after the disease progresses. Many different types of animals can harbor the virus that causes rabies in cats like foxes, bats, and raccoons. If one of these infected animals bites or scratches your cat, then the virus will be transmitted.

Your pet won't display signs of the disease immediately after being bitten or scratched. The virus takes a while to make its way to the brain, at which point signs will start to appear. This time, known as the incubation period, can last anywhere between two and six weeks.

Feline rabies causes cats to change their behavior dramatically. If yours has always been shy, then he will become aggressive suddenly. Animals that aren't usually affectionate will become so. This stage of the disease only lasts a couple of days.

The next stage that cats can experience after being infected with the virus is the furious stage. As its name suggests, felines will become very irritable and furious. They will want to stay in a dark location away from all sounds and lights since both will cause issues with them. At this stage of feline rabies, cats can start to have seizures and may die.

If not, they will progress to the final stage of cat rabies, the paralytic phase. The virus will start to cause problems with various nerves and muscles around the body. The ones near the jaw and diaphragm are usually affected first, causing felines lose their ability to swallow or breathe effectively. Cats die as a result of respiratory failure within days of entering this phase.

There is no way to diagnose rabies in cats while they are still alive. Once the disease has run its course and the animal has passed away, the brain can be examined to determine if the rabies virus was truly the cause.

Even if feline rabies were capable of being diagnosed quickly, there is still no treatment for it. Cats almost always die from the disease. A few fortunate felines have lived through an infection though, but it's very rare.

It is very easy to prevent this fatal disease. Simply have your cat vaccinated. While the vaccination is still effective, there is a very little chance that your cat will develop the disease, even after being bitten by an infected animal.

Many, if not most states, have long had laws on the books making it mandatory for dog owners to have their pets vaccinated. Some are starting to make it a requirement for cat owners too. Even if it's not mandatory in your area, you should still have your pet vaccinated for feline rabies.

Information on Endocrine Alopecia in Cats

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.

Everything Owners Need to Know About Gingivitis in Felines

Cats aren't exactly able to brush their own teeth to keep them in good health, which is why the majority of them have oral problems of some sort later in life. Feline gingivitis is one of the most common problems that they suffer from. This condition occurs when there is inflammation of the gums.

Bacteria is found in every cat's mouth. Problems with gingivitis in cats develop whenever this bacteria is allowed to accumulate. Bacteria in the mouth combines with old food particles and eventually turns into plaque. If the plaque isn't removed in a timely manner, then it will turn into yellow tartar.

Cats that aren't fed a proper diet can easily experience oral problems. Proper nutrition isn't enough to keep cat gingivitis at bay though. Owners need to care for their feline's teeth, ideally cleaning them after each meal.

There are various types of bacteria that can cause feline gingivitis. It isn't always caused by bacteria though, as viral infections can also lead to the condition. One of the most common diseases that causes it is cat panleukopenia.

Gingivitis in cats causes a wide variety of symptoms. Whenever your cat tries to drink or eat anything, he will experience oral pain. Thanks to the pain, many cats stop eating like they're supposed to and become anorexic. Excessive salivation is also a common occurrence. As the condition progresses, the teeth may start to decay or develop cavities.

Feline gingivitis also causes the gums to become red or swollen. The slightest contact can cause them to start bleeding, so you'll need to be careful when cleaning your kitty's teeth. Bad breath is also a common problem for cats with this oral condition.

If you take your cat to the veterinarian with some of these symptoms, he will take note of them and also ask you exactly what you're feeding your cat. Stomatitis causes some of the same symptoms as gingivitis in felines. Therefore, he may need to take a biopsy of the tissues in the mouth in order to make a definitive diagnosis.

The first thing that needs to be done to treat feline gingivitis is to remove all of the tartar that has built up on the teeth. Owners will also need to start taking care of their pet's teeth and gums better. Brushing the teeth on a daily or regular basis is very important.

Bacterial infections can easily develop thanks to gingivitis in cats. That's why cats with the disease are generally prescribed antibiotics. Antibiotic pills are usually less effective in treating these secondary bacterial infections than antibiotic creams or ointments that are applied directly to the problematic areas.

The aforementioned treatments will effectively get rid of milder cases of cat gingivitis. Felines that experience chronic problems may need more advanced treatment in the form of surgery though. It's best that treatment begins before tooth decay sets in since treatment will be more difficult at that point.

Feline gingivitis can be devastating to your cat's oral health. This is especially true if it is allowed to progress into periodontal disease. These issues can largely be prevented by regular brushing and occasional professional cleaning. Don't forget that proper nutrition plays a large role in preventing gingivitis in cats too.

Antibiotics For Cats - Effective Natural Alternatives

Antibiotics for cats are used extensively for almost every condition. It's the first medicine of choice for every vet. And certainly the effects can be effective. But what are the side effects of antibiotics? And what happens when stronger and stronger antibiotics are needed, which still do not yield results?

First lets look at an infection. The body is intelligent and produces symptoms for a reason. It's the way the immune system works. Often, the efforts of a healthy immune system will completely resolve the problem.

But it needs time. And many people with cats panic at the first sign of ill health and rush their beloved feline off to a vet. By understanding what a healthy body is always trying to do is much more valuable than panicking.

Vets are people, too. Even when a vet can't find anything wrong with your cat, it doesn't mean there isn't. And vets tend to respond to your desperate need to do something. So out come the antibiotics, often 'just in case'.

Antibiotics often have an immediate palliative effect, lulling people into thinking they have 'cured' the problem. But they are palliative, not curative.

Antibiotics, along with all veterinary drugs, do have side effects. Quite serious ones, that you may not know about. Here are a few:

all veterinary drugs are toxic, which loads up your cat's system, making it more difficult to heal the problem at its core

all veterinary drugs lower the immune system, lowering the overall health of your cat

no veterinary drug deals with the cause of the problem, only the effect

the massive use of antibiotics globally is creating toxic environments, further complicating everyone's health in the future

Antibiotics for cats should be used sparingly, when there really is little or no alternative. When the problem is dire and all other alternatives have been thoroughly explored, to no avail.

So what are the alternatives? There are a few, some of which need to be used with great knowledge and caution, such as herbs. Cats are sensitive to herbs and cannot tolerate many. Allowing them a choice is the safest way. Acupuncture can be highly effective, but can only be carried out by a knowledgeable practitioner.

Probably homeopathic treatment offers your cat the best alternative for all round and deeply effective health care. It also offers you the widest choice of use and is perhaps the most economical treatment.

Expensive and traumatic tests are not required. Even a visit to a homeopath is not always necessary - much good work can be carried out at a distance, by phone or Skype. And you can learn, reasonably quickly, how to use some of the common remedies at home, so avoiding the need for veterinary treatment.

Antibiotics for cats should not be used as liberally as they are. If you tend to panic easily about the health of your cat, then you are helping to create this problem of overuse. To learn more about alternative health care, some of which can be used at home, click on the link below.

The Truth Regarding Ringworm in Felines

Many people take the name feline ringworm literally and believe that the disease is brought on by a worm. The truth is that it's caused by a fungus. This fungus mainly infects the hair and skin, but can also make its way to the nails.

Ringworm in cats is very, very contagious. If you have multiple cats, then one can infect the other very easily. Owners also need to be aware that they can become infected with the fungus too. Infected animals easily transmit the disease by coming into direct contact with other animals. The fungus can also reside in food dishes and bedding, and infect your cat when he comes into contact with it.

Just because your cat has been infected with the fungus that causes feline ringworm doesn't mean that he will show signs though. The spores may simply reside on your cat without causing any symptoms for a long period of time. These spores are capable of surviving in the environment for months and months.

Ringworm in cats can become a problem for any feline regardless of age, sex, or breed. However, certain groups have a higher risk than others. Kittens and older cats alike share an increased risk for infection. Also, cats with long hair or a weakened immune system will have a higher risk too.

When signs of feline ringworm appear, they're quite easy to notice. Your cat will develop bald patches on various areas of his body. Each patch will be circular in nature, and may also have a flaky appearance, with a red dot appearing in the center.

The areas that are usually affected include the ears, limbs, and head. Milder cases of ringworm in cats only causes bald patches in smaller areas. The disease can progress though and cause problems over the entire body.

Although the signs of feline ringworm are quite noticeable, your vet will have to do more than just take a look at your cat in order to make a diagnosis. The condition can be diagnosed very easily using an ultraviolet light that will make the fungus glow when exposed to it. The vet may also choose to take a skin biopsy or even examine the fungus under a microscope.

Medicated shampoos or ointments are usually effective in getting rid of ringworm in felines. Some cats may be given oral medication to combat the disease though. As mentioned earlier, the fungus is quite hardy. Therefore, this medication may need to be given for a period of months to ensure that your cat doesn't have a reinfection.

If your cat has ringworm, then you'll need to be very careful when handling him. Always make sure that you wash your hands thoroughly after you handle him. It's also important that you use a special disinfectant on the bedding, food dishes, and any other areas that your cat comes into contact with.

Feline ringworm spreads very easily, and your other pets may have been infected too. It's a good precaution to use the medicated ointment or shampoo on your other pets too. This is especially important if they shed a lot.

Pet Owners Need to Know About Constipation in Felines

Cats can have any number of bowel movements on a daily basis. In general though, they typically have no more than two a day. Whenever they can't pass stools like they're supposed to, it's known as constipation, just like the condition that affects dogs and humans.

You should know that feline constipation is a sign that something is wrong with your cat, but it isn't exactly a disease itself. It doesn't matter the age, as any cat can be affected. However, it's more common for older cats to be affected.

Constipation in cats is usually a minor problem. If your cat suffers from it quite often though, it can lead to more serious problems. The colon may eventually become completely blocked, which really means that your cat won't be able to pass any stool.

There are many different things that can lead to feline constipation. Drinking plenty of fresh water is vital for avoiding dehydration. Dehydration means that there won't be as much water in the stool which can lead to constipation in cats. Dietary fiber is also important for avoiding cat constipation. If the food that you're feeding your feline doesn't have an adequate amount of fiber, the condition may develop.

Behavioral issues may be the reason your cat has constipation. If you have multiple cats but only one litter box, one or both cats may not be inclined to use the box. It's important to keep the litter box clean no matter how many cats you have, as felines don't want to use dirty boxes.

Feline constipation can also be brought about because of anal glands that are impacted. If this happens, it will be painful for your cat to defecate. The colon can become obstructed due to ingestion of foreign objects or hairballs. Tumors may also lead to an obstruction.

It's pretty easy to tell when constipation in cats occurs. Your kitty won't be in and out of the litter box like normal. Instead, he or she will strain to defecate. Only a small amount will come out at a time, if any comes out at all.

Constipation may also cause your cat to use the bathroom outside of the litter box even if he or she has always used it without problems. It's also common for constipated cats to experience other problems such as appetite loss, weight loss, and depression.

Mild feline constipation should be pretty easy to treat at home. Laxatives like Metamucil or wheat bran will effectively handle most cases. Other options include lubricants, stool softening medications, and plenty of fresh water. Constipation can be a problem for cats that eat dry food all of the time, so they'll especially need more moisture in their diet.

An easy way to treat cat constipation is pumpkin since it adds dietary fiber. You can simply open up some canned pumpkin and add a little bit to your cat's food.

Hairballs are commonly responsible for constipation in felines as you have already learned. To keep your cat from swallowing as much hair whenever he licks himself, you should brush him on a daily basis. Your veterinarian may also suggest that you switch to a special food that minimizes hairballs.

Automatic Cat Feeder: All You Need to Know Before Buying One

What are automatic feeders?

Automatic feeders are devices that allow you to feed your pet at selected times and frequencies when you are not at home. They are great solutions for people who are away from home most of the day and cannot feed their pets manually. They are excellent solutions if you have to travel on weekends and leave your pet at home. These devices have three basic components:

A hopper that holds the food that will be dispensed over a determined period of time. It is located on the upper part of the feeder.

A nozzle that channels the food from the hopper to the bowl.

A bowl for your pet to eat the food from.

How to use them

You basically have to do two things:

Program the desired food dispensing time and frequency.

Make sure to leave enough food in the hopper so it can dispense food for a couple of days.

Note that the instructions for using automatic feeders vary according to their operating systems.

Types of feeders and how they work

Automatic pet feeders with the following operating systems are available:

Programmable automatic feeders with timers, which allow you to set feeding amounts, times and frequencies. These feeders store the food required for feeding during the day in the hopper.

Feeders that work with gravity; the food is conducted to the bowl through the nozzle while your pet is eating. These feeders don't have timers and you cannot program either food amounts or feeding schedules.

Dish feeders, which have rotating compartments where the food is kept. Some of them have timers and others rotate at fixed intervals.

Box-type feeders, which work with a slot that opens at the preset feeding time.

What to consider before buying an automatic feeder

Whether you will use it for just one day or for several days. This is important because if you need to leave your pet at home for several days you will need a more reliable automatic feeder with enhanced performance.

The pellet size of your pet's food. Some automatic feeders don't work properly with some pellet sizes. Checking this point is critical.

Whether your cat is fat or normal weight. The reason for this is simple: if your cat is overweight and you need to put it on a diet, the feeder has to be able to dispense specific amounts of food at the scheduled feeding times.

How well disciplined is your cat with regard to food? If your cat is the type of pet that is never satisfied and is always trying to get more from the feeder, you should consider getting an automatic feeder with a well-protected nozzle system.

If you have one or more cats. If you need to feed two cats at the same time, you should consider a feeder capable of dispensing food several times a day to satisfy two cats that share the food each time (as long as your cats can eat together).

The type of food you feed your pet. If you use moist food, the solution is to purchase a dish-type automatic feeder. These feeders usually have ice packs to keep the food in good condition.

Owner's Guide to Cat Chlamydia

Both bacteria and viruses can cause conjunctivitis in cats. This condition is known as pink eye, the same thing that can affect dogs, humans, and other animals. Feline chlamydia results from a bacterial infection. Cats are usually infected with other viruses along with this disease like herpes virus and calicivirus.

Chlamydia in cats usually affects those at the younger or older end of the spectrum. Those with damaged immune systems or other illness of some sort have an increased risk too. However, the bacterial infection can cause symptoms in any cat.

There is an assortment of ways that feline chlamydia can be transmitted. The bacteria can be passed via eye discharge, nose secretions, or saliva from infected cats. Mothers are also capable of transmitting the disease to their kittens while giving birth.

You should also know that it's possible chlamydia in cats to be transmitted in indirect ways. The bacteria can live in bedding, food dishes, and other places and can infect your cat if he comes into contact with them. Owners can also harbor the bacteria on their hands and pass it along to their felines.

Seeing the white of your cat's eyes turn red is one of the primary signs of feline chlamydia. The eye may also swell, with the third eyelid closing partially. Discharge that's very watery may also appear from the eyes. All of this will irritate your cat's eye, causing him to paw at it frequently. This illness may only cause symptoms in one eye at first. Eventually though, both eyes will likely experience problems. As mentioned, chlamydia in cats usually occurs at the same time as other respiratory conditions. Cats may have a fever, discharge from the nose, coughing, and sneezing if this occurs.

Feline chlamydia doesn't usually prove difficult to treat as long as it's mild. Antibiotics can get rid of the bacteria. They may be given orally or placed directly in the affected eyes. The condition can get more problematic though if there are other problems at the same time. Your cat may have an upper respiratory illness that requires hospitalization.

Whenever giving your cat antibiotics to treat any condition, it's vital to go through the entire regimen. If you don't, then the bacteria you're trying to get rid of may mutate and grow stronger. If this happens, they may become resistant to the antibiotics.

If you have multiple cats in your household, then you'll especially need to be careful with feline chlamydia. It can easily be transmitted to other cats. Keep infected cats in seclusion. Disinfect bedding, food dishes, and other places that can harbor the bacteria. Also, make sure that you wash your hands thoroughly after you touch the infected cat so that you don't spread it to your other felines.

All You Need to Know Regarding Anemia in Felines

Blood is made up of various types of cells, with red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen. Without enough of these cells circulating throughout the body, oxygen won't make its way to various areas. This is known as feline anemia, and it is an important sign that some underlying disease or condition is affecting your cat.

Anemia in cats can occur if red blood cells are being destroyed faster than they're being produced. The bone marrow may not even be producing them in the first place for some reason. Trauma that results in a lot of blood loss will also bring it about.

Feline anemia also occurs when your cat has leukemia or the immunodeficiency virus. Other diseases like cancer and chronic kidney failure may also be responsible.

The signs of anemia in cats are quite easy to spot if you're a vigilant owner. The mucous membranes will lose their color. You'll see the gums turn pale. Cats will also lose their appetite, lose weight, and appear lethargic. The stool may also appear blacker than normal.

If you bring your cat in with signs of feline anemia, the veterinarian will need to conduct a battery of tests since there are so many things that can cause it. A complete blood count will be quite useful to see the makeup of the blood exactly. Tests can also be conducted to check for blood parasites, while a stool sample can determine if gastrointestinal problems are causing issues.

As you should already know, the bone marrow is responsible for producing red blood cells. A biopsy will help see if it's doing the job properly still. Finding the root cause of anemia in cats is very important so that it can be treated.

Cats that are losing blood may need a blood transfusion. Kidney failure can cause feline anemia since the kidneys produce a hormone that tells bone marrow to produce more red blood cells. Cats may benefit from being given synthetic hormones.

If there are large amounts of worms or fleas infesting your cat, then they will need to be dealt with accordingly. Yet another possible course of treatment includes using antibiotics to get rid of anything that may be infecting your cat besides viruses.

Feline anemia also occurs because of cancer, so chemotherapy may be your cat's best option. Supportive care may only be possible if leukemia or immunodeficiency viruses are the cause.

Cat Care Tips - Info on Cat Aids

Aids in cats is commonly referred to as HIV or immunodeficiency virus. Whatever it's called, the disease is one of the most serious since cats die from it. Infected cats spread feline aids through their saliva whenever they bite another cat. Although it's very rare, a mother may also pass the disease to her kittens during birth.

Feline aids, or the immunodeficiency virus, wreaks havoc on your cat's immune system. The virus will render the system ineffective, so your cat will have an increased risk of developing various other diseases.

It can be quite difficult to spot the signs of aids in cats in the initial stages. For one, felines are very capable of hiding illness from potential predators and owners alike. Also, cats infected with the virus may not show symptoms for several years after being infected. Lethargy and appetite loss are two of the most common signs of the initial stages of feline aids. Cats may also develop diarrhea or fevers. The lymph nodes may also start swelling up.

Once feline HIV progresses though, symptoms will appear more serious. Cats start losing weight. Sores and lesions can also appear around the eyes and mouth. Since their immune system is compromised, cats will also suffer chronic infections. The leukemia virus commonly infects cats concurrently with HIV.

The first step in diagnosing aids in cats involves taking a complete medical history. Since cats that are allowed to roam outside frequently have a higher risk, the vet will also ask about your pet's environment. A blood test is necessary in order to diagnose feline aids. It's not possible to detect the virus in the blood. However, the body makes antibodies in an attempt to battle the virus, and these antibodies can be detected.

Just because the test for feline HIV comes back positive doesn't always mean that your cat is infected. False positives can occur for a few reasons. The main way is if your cat has ever been vaccinated for the illness. If the mother passes antibodies to her kittens via the milk, then they may test positive also despite the fact that they're aren't infected with the virus.

Just like with the disease that affects humans, there is no treatment for feline aids. Cats can live for quite a few years without showing any symptoms of illness at all. The fortunate ones can live for a decade or so without experiencing problems. Once symptoms appear though, supportive care will eventually become necessary.

There is a vaccination for aids in cats, so it's best that owners take advantage of it. Since getting into fights with stray cats is a primary transmission method, you should also do your best to limit the amount of roaming that your cat does.

Owner's Guide to Lymphoma in Cats

Lymphoma in cats is also commonly referred to as feline lymphosarcoma. This type of cancer affects one of the immune system's most important cells, the lymphocytes. These cells are found all over the body, so a range of organs can be affected including the kidneys, skin, gastrointestinal system, and bone marrow to name a few.

Cats infected with the leukemia virus are known to develop feline lymphoma sometimes. This normally occurs with younger felines. Older cats can also develop the condition, but the cancer isn't usually brought on by the leukemia virus with them.

As you have already learned, lymphosarcoma in cats can affect virtually any body part. The specific areas that are affected will determine what symptoms your cat experiences. Vomiting, diarrhea, loss of weight and appetite are common signs when the digestive system is affected. If the chest and lymph nodes are affected, then felines will typically have a hard time breathing.

The kidneys are commonly affected to, bringing on signs such as appetite loss and increased urination and thirst. Some cats are unfortunate enough to have problems with the spine, which usually results in weakness and paralysis in some cases.

To diagnose feline lymphoma, the vet will need to examine a sample of the affected cells under a microscope or perform a biopsy. Since so many different organs can possibly be affected, a slew of tests will likely need to be performed too. Some of the tests that your cat may need to undergo include an x-ray, ultrasound, urinalysis, and complete blood count. Vets may also test for the leukemia or immunodeficiency virus since they commonly occur with this disease.

Lymphoma in cats tends to be fatal, at least over time. Chemotherapy is the main method of treatment for cat lymphoma. Radiation is also a treatment option, although it's typically reserved for certain types of this cancer.

Cats will almost certainly die if treatment isn't provided. They can have an increased life span with a significant remission time with appropriate treatment, especially if major organs aren't affected. The best prognosis is provided for cats with gastrointestinal, nasal, or chest problems.

Unfortunately though, not all felines respond to chemotherapy treatment. It is very expensive too. That's why owners will usually have a major decision to make. Chemotherapy usually produces noticeable results within two to three weeks. If your cat doesn't respond by that time, then you may want to discuss euthanization with your vet.