Why Fish Oil Is Good for Cats and Kittens

The cat's grace and beauty have inspired artists since ancient times. Cats are found in literature, portraits, museums as statues and sculpture, but until recently the needs of a mother and her babies have not been studied scientifically. One of the best ways to aid your cat during her pregnancy and litter birth is to add fish oils to her regular meals.

Today we are much more aware of dietary needs for our feline friends and especially the new moms. The mother cat will pick a dark, hidden place to give birth to her kittens. She wants to protect the kittens' eyes from bright light and keep the kittens safe from prowling enemies, especially tomcats. The mother cat nurses her kittens for about two months. During this period, she should receive mill with the cream unseparated. A pinch of bone meal and three drops of halibut-liver oil sprinkled on the mother cat's food once a day will help her provide nourishing milk for the kittens. The fattest and healthiest kittens are those that are handled least and allowed to remain with the mother cat until she has weaned them.

Sometimes kittens are in need of more food than their mother can offer. One helpful method is to give them a teaspoon of fresh milk with egg yolk, or the same amount of fruit juice or soup. A sprinkling of salt and bone meal on the foods provides enough minerals for healthy bodies. Kittens usually begin eating small amounts of cereal or prepared baby food until the age of seven or eight weeks, when they can begin with some solid foods such as meat and fish.

Cats can sometimes suffer from upset stomachs. Keep them warm and do not give them solid foods for a day or two. Warm milk with a pinch of salt should help the cat relax and settle down its digestive tract. Three drops of halibut-liver oil in the soup will help soothe an upset stomach.

Cats suffer from rheumatism if kept in damp places. Part of their beauty is the effortless and lithe manner of movement. We want these joints to remain healthy and well-oiled, so please utilize fatty acid supplements to aid in the joint health. A tablespoon of olive oil added to your pet's food a few times a week will keep bowel movements regular and coat glossy.

While being nursed, the first meal of your kitten is crucial. Kittens have only the first 24 hours after birth to attain the mother's milk which is loaded with colostrum. Colostrum contains antibodies and nutrients essential for the newborn animal's nutrition as well as to boost their immune system. It is vital to make sure all the litter gets a chance to be nursed, especially the smaller, less pushy kittens. There are many specialty feeds available to help out the new, nursing cat at your local veterinarian or pet shop.

A kitten's eyes are very delicate and should be sheltered from bright light as the eye is easily damaged. They usually do not open until 8-10 days after birth. Nursing cat moms are especially in need of proteins. These can come from beef, chopped liver, heart, kidney, and fish. The fish oils help heal the mother from the inside with soothing the tissues that were stretched from the birthing. Fish oil helps keep her fur shiny and her skin moisturized, all of which helps her be a good mother.

Both long-haired and short-haired kittens shed their baby hair at about 6 months. They will weigh close to 3 ounces at birth, gaining about one pound per month for the first six months. Adult cats shed their coats each season. To aid your cat in regrowth of new, gorgeous fur, a few drops of fish oil can be added to their meals several times per week.

Timothy H. Harris

Raw Food Diet For Cat and Kittens - Taking This One Step Prevents Cat Illness

There is increasing evidence accepted by holistic and traditional veterinarians that turning to a raw food diet for cat and kittens reduces the likelihood of many of today's common cat health problems. Its no secret that our cats are obese, have bladder problems or develop kidney disease or diabetes. Its looking like the same rules that apply to humans apply to cats - high carbohydrate, low protein diets and poor exercise habits lead to disease. The good news is that the number one step holistic vets recommend is that you switch your pet to a raw food diet for cat program.

Here's a short list of disorders that are fed by a low protein, high carbohydrate diet:

1. Dental disease 

2. Bladder stones and Feline Urinary Tract Infection 

3. Obesity 

4. Diabetes 

5. Kidney disease 

6. Inflammatory Bowel Syndrome

Read the hot topics in Cat Fancy and Catwatch and you'll find at least two articles, if not more, reporting on the increase in cat sicknesses like feline urinary tract infection, diabetes and the rest. What do most of our house cats have in common? What they eat.

Now for the full the scoop on a raw food diet for cat and kitten...

Cats are dependent on a meat protein diet. Since World War II we've been fooled into believing that the commercially prepared dry or canned cat foods are the greatest invention since cat litter. These cat food products did not exist prior to the 1940's. They were developed during this wartime economic period because it was cheaper to feed our pets corn than it was to keep them on a raw diet for cat, kitten or dog. As a nation, we started moving towards a more urbanized lifestyle and we lost touch with our meat sources in our backyard. For the past few decades we've been loading up our grocery carts with Mighty Bad For Dog and Kitty food.

Cats and kittens require meat products. They can not convert vegetable proteins into the nutritionally equivalent minerals and amino acids that meat provides them. When was the last time you noticed your cat hanging from a corn stalk chomping through a cob of corn? Try this...

Let your cat wander through a corn field and I be he returns with a rabbit, mouse or bird - meat stuff - no corn. That's the natural approach.

A simple holistic cat health care solution.

You can make this change to a raw food diet for cat successful. Yes, it will require more work on your part. You will need to find a source of fresh rabbit, chicken or beef - those are in order of preference. Rabbit has the most nutritional benefit to your cat.

Don't go overboard when you start your raw food diet for cat program. Keep the quantities you purchase minimal so that you aren't freezing a load of meat. Freezing causes meat to breakdown and loose nutritional value. When you do freeze your raw rabbit, chicken or beef, package it in chunks. Don't slice all the meat up before you freeze it. Slice it as you prep for a new batch.

To further arm your cat from problems associated with illnesses like feline urinary tract infection and bladder stones or diseases like diabetes, you may opt to give your cat a little boost. Help your cat rid himself of bad toxins and impurities that years of commercial cat food poured into him. Add a homeopathic remedy that is proven to help pets purge toxins.

Don't shy away from including natural remedies in your raw food diet for cat or kitten diet. Long before anyone knew anything about diabetes, cancer or urinary tract infections our ancestors used herbs and nature to treat themselves and their animals. The Romans revered cats because cats kept the snakes and rodents under control - hmm, a natural raw food diet for cat and kittens way back then...

Kate Rieger

Eye Problems in Cats and Kittens

EYE INFECTIONS IN KITTENS ( CONJUNCTI

VITIS NEONATORUM ) 

Conjunctivitis Neonatorum is an inflammatory condition of the conjunctiva, the white tissue lining the eyelids that occurs due to Herpes Virus infection in kittens. The virus enters the eye through the eyelids before they have opened. Prompt intervention prevents rupture of the cornea and permanent scarring of the eye. Treatment involves opening the eyes and applying appropriate medication.

EYELIDS AND DRY EYE

The eyelids serve many important functions. They protect the cornea, the clear outer portion of the eye, and the eye itself from trauma. They keep light out and determine the size and shape of the opening of the eye. The eyelids also produce and spread tears over the eye. Tears supply the cornea with oxygen and nutrients; therefore they are essential to keep the cornea healthy. If the cornea is deprived of oxygen and food because of a lack of tear film, destructive changes occur quickly, leading to a condition called Dry Eye. Dry Eye is also called Keratoconjunctivitis sicca. The cornea can become pigmented, scarred, and ulcerated. Partial vision loss can also result. The eyes of cats with Dry Eye burn and sting all the time just like ours do on a windy day. Diagnosis is made by a tear test that measures how many tears the eye produces in one minute. In this case, low levels of tear production are detected.

CAUSES OF DRY EYE

1. The eyelids of newborn kittens and puppies normally open between 10 and 14 days of age. If the eyelids open too early, tears are not yet produced. Dry Eye will result unless topical eye lubricants are applied three to four times daily until tear production begins.

2. Surgical correction of the lazy eyelid prevents further damage and rupture of the eye.

3. Certain breeds including Persians, Himalayans, Burmese, and Exotic Shorthairs have very large protruding eyes, which are subject to trauma, in addition, many also have an inherited eyelid disorder called Lagophthalmos. The "lazy eyelid" or lids do not close properly and therefore can not spread the tears adequately. This increases the risk of Dry Eye and secondary Corneal Ulcers.

4. Many of these same cats also have mild Entropion of their lower eyelids. Entropion is also an inherited condition in which the eyelid tissue turns inward. This causes further irritation to the eye.

5. Chronic Herpes Virus eye infections in cats can result in Dry Eye.

TREATMENT FOR DRY EYE

* The drug Pilocarpine and the anti-cancer drug Interferon effectively stimulate tear production in certain cats.

* A surgical procedure called a Parotid Duct Transposition (PDT) is a worthwhile consideration for cases that do not respond to medication.

* With consistent therapy, most cases of Dry Eye carry a good prognosis, but without treatment, recurrent corneal ulcers, bacterial infections, and even blindness can result.

INHERITED EYE PROBLEMS

1. ENTROPION

Entropion is a hereditary condition in which the eyelids roll inward which causes the eyelashes to contact the surface of the eye. This condition usually involves both eyes and is quite painful. In addition to conjunctivitis, partial or complete loss of vision can result if left untreated. Squinting and tearing are the most common signs. Persians and Himalayans seem to be at increased risk. Surgical correction involves removal of a narrow strip of skin and muscle from the eyelid. Stitches are then used to avert the eyelid so that it lies in a normal position.

2. EYELASH DISEASE

Eyelash Disease is a group of conditions in which eyelashes or hairs injure the eye.

* Trichiasis is a condition in which normal hairs lie on and irritate the eye. This is common in Persian cats. The facial hairs on the side of the eye nearest the nose can irritate the eyes and cause conjunctivitis. Prevention requires regular trimming of these hairs.

METHOD TO DETECT INHERITED EYE PROBLEMS

CERF EXAM

In addition to hereditary eyelid and eyelash diseases, several disorders of the cornea and retina are also inherited in cats. They can easily go undetected until quite advanced. CERF Exam is a method to detect Inherited Eye Problems. Most are quite painful and blindness is not an uncommon consequence. A Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF) examination is an eye exam that can only be performed by a certified veterinary eye specialist. It is used to detect inherited eye diseases in dogs and cats and can be given at a young age. Responsible breeders should not breed any dog or cat who fails a CERF Exam. Potential owners should ask whether or not the parents received and passed the CERF Exam. Neutering or spaying animals with these hereditary conditions insures that the problem will not be passed on to future generations.

Carol Osborne

Cats and Kittens and the Bad Bugs That They Can Give You If You Do Not Vaccinate Or Deworm

We all love our Cats and need the first-class for our pets, now and again even debating over selections to vaccinate or now no longer. Outdoor cats are maximum vulnerable to lots of illnesses, issues, and parasites, a number of that can even have an effect on human beings. If your cat is stored interior and does now no longer mingle with different cats, than it turns into a non-public choice as to vaccinating. If allowed to move outdoors, even occasionally, than it's miles tremendously endorsed that your cat be vaccinated towards a number of the maximum considerable and tremendous viral sickness to which cats are maximum vulnerable to along with: Feline distemper, top breathing infections, and rabies.

When vaccinating Kittens, they must be at the least eight to twelve weeks antique and freed from parasites. It is first-class to deworm the cat and/or kittens about weeks earlier than immunization. You may have the feces analyzed to ensure that parasites aren't gift however this may value similarly to the deworming costs. Or you could count on that worms perhaps there and simply do prevention. Remember to keep away from touch with different pets that won't had been immunized because the vaccination isn't powerful till approximately every week later. A 2d dose perhaps required to be powerful and offer the protection. Some Vaccinations additionally require annual boosters or a booster each numerous years.

Examples of a number of the Cat parasites that have an effect on human beings are fleas, ticks, mites, lice and maggots which might be the predominant outside parasites which you need to test for frequently and deal with if gift. Some of those pests transmit illnesses and lay eggs at the animal so repeat remedies are required. Scratching is mostly a clue. Check ears frequently for ear mites!

The predominant issues to human beings and specially kids are Internal parasites which encompass lots of worms (round, hook, whip, thread, tape) and single-celled organisms which you cannot hit upon till they've taken their toll in your puppy or worse but have transferred to humans along with the dreaded "pin worms". If you've got got different pets along with dogs, don't forget that your canine perhaps the service and byskip on "bugs" for your indoor cats.

Most risky to pregnant girls, is the Protozoa Toxoplasma Gondaii, observed in cat feces. This organism can have an effect on the unborn baby and can even purpose miscarriage. It is first-class that pregnant girls do now no longer easy the cats muddle tray and/or take precautions and make certain that normal deworming is scheduled for his or her cats. There are many "automated" kitty waste structures which pregnant cat proprietors must recollect making an investment in if the chores of cleansing the cat muddle tray is their sole responsibility.

Like us, each a part of the cats frame may be laid low with a few illnesses and fitness problems, mouth and enamel with the aid of using stomatitis, breathing ailments, eye issues like conjunctivitis, ear issues, kidney sickness, the circulatory machine with the aid of using anemia, heartworm and leukemia.

Pay interest for your pets fitness and be specifically situation in case your cat must vomits, collapses, has diarrhea, problem breathing, bleeding or has dilated pupils. Loss of urge for food is typically now no longer severe except it lasts for extra than 24 hours. Watch your Cat for diffused symptoms and symptoms of sickness, listlessness, sneezing, coughing, closed eyelids, cloudy eyes, mouth odor, limping, pain, constipation, common urination or straining to urinate, and discharges from eyes, ears or nose. Also look ahead to modifications of their normal conduct along with dozing extra, soreness, irritable etc. Usually, the Cat will inform us some thing is inaccurate earlier than the hassle turns into critical. A ride to the Vet Clinic perhaps required to verify any issues.

Your Cats will begin to expose symptoms and symptoms of antique age round 10 years of age, which interprets to approximately 60 years in a cats existence. The common lifespan for a cat is 15 years. Even in the event that they can't stay 9 lives (despite the fact that a few appear to), they are able to stay a long, healthful existence whilst given consistent, accountable care.

Taking care of your Cats fitness is an awful lot similar to you do for yourself. Pay interest, save you what you could and in case you suspect some thing, get it test out.

 Susie Smyth

Cat and Kitten Fostering

Cat or kitten fostering is a completely profitable enjoy for you and glaringly the kitten worried. Fostering is giving those bad animals a domestic, albeit temporary. There are a couple of blessings in doing this.

For the kitten the most glaringly advantage is residing in a domestic and now no longer a cage at a few rescue middle. The kitten learns a way to engage with human beings on the way to boom their possibilities of being followed. Not many human beings need to undertake a kitten that cowers withinside the nook of its cage while a human approaches. If you've got pets of your own, the kitten learns a way to engage with them as nicely. Imagine a person trying to undertake a kitten however they have already got a canine at domestic. If your foster domestic had a canine, this kitten has a higher risk of being followed via way of means of this fictitious character in view that they may be reassured that this kitten gets alongside first-rate with their canine again domestic.

The advantage for your self is, nicely, gambling with kittens. Well this is only a facet impact however it may be amusing nonetheless. You are certainly doing a charitable carrier via way of means of fostering a kitten or a pup for that matter.

Donations to rescue middle as constantly preferred however I guess in case you spoke with one and requested what they wanted the maximum I could now no longer be amazed if the replied foster homes. You typically see this greater withinside the spring while maximum kittens are born. You may even keep in mind fostering a pregnant cat or one which currently gave delivery Im certain you can consider elevating your newborns withinside the consolation of your private home is superior then in a cage at a rescue middle. additionally keep in mind that a domestic could be a more fit surroundings then a rescue middle that can have an problem with colds, viruses or even diseases. Even the exceptional run rescue facilities have those issues, its simply the character of rescue middle, just like human hospitals.

We one had the risk to foster some day vintage kittens whos mother had died withinside the delivery. Sad because it became, we have been capable of bottle feed those little angels, watch them grown up wholesome and discover new homes. But truthful warning, that became a whole lot of paintings as then want to be fed VERY often.

The negatives, nicely there are a few however they're out weighted via way of means of the positives. One is charges, you glaringly incurs a few charges consisting of the cat food, clutter boxes, cages to preserve them from thinking round at night, and different miscellaneous cat supplies. But maximum of those are a one time funding and you can keep in mind this as charitable donation in lieu of a donation to a rescue middle (via way of means of all way do this as nicely if you could find the money for it). Though maximum adoptions need to have a small charge worried to assist offset a number of your charges. The charge isn't approximately creating a earnings however the use of that cash to assist different cats

The different terrible is after they leave. You do get connected and can need to preserve them for your self. But comprehend that in case you re-domestic them then there's now a further area in your private home to foster another. plus you need to insist to be worried with the screening of ability adopters. Set up pointers to follow, they're pointers now no longer absolute regulations so use your exceptional judgment. Ours have been the following:

* No adoptions to present to a person as a gift - you need to make certain the person who is adopting the kitten certainly needs it. As a wonder gift, you cant make certain.

* No adoptions to a person who refuses to pay adoption charge - This isn't approximately being grasping however we could be honest, in case you cant find the money for an inexpensive charge then can certainly find the money for to attend to a puppy in a right manner? manner I see it's far in case you wont pay a hundred bucks for the kitten you in reality wont pay for vet payments if the cat receives unwell and desires scientific attention...or maximum important, pay to get the kitten spayed/neutered.

* No adoptions to all and sundry that doesn't conform to spay/neuter the kitten. No exceptions!!

In summary, while deliberating movements you could do to assist the creature of this world, i'd strongly advocate you keep in mind fostering kittens. It is a completely profitable enjoy and a remarkable carrier.

 Michael Ippolito 

Cat and Kitten Grooming - Brushing, Bathing and Dental Care

Cat and kitten grooming can be fun for you - and essential to help your cat or kitten maintain good health. Here are some easy techniques to help keep your kitty in tip-top shape.

Dental Health

o Sniff your cat's breath - foul breath can indicate tummy problems or gum disease, which need vet treatment. 

o Gently lift your cat's lips and look at the gums - healthy gums are generally firm and pinkish, with clean teeth without brown staining 

o Gum swellings and/or red or white colours can be due to gum problems 

o Brownish or caked teeth indicate dental problems 

o Also look out for dark red lines at the gum lines, or red, swollen gums; gum or tongue ulcers; pus; loose teeth; problems chewing; a lot of drooling or pawing at the mouth area.

All of these signs show the vet needs to examine your cat or kitten. Many people don't know that gum swelling can sometimes happen during more serious illness. In any case, of itself it can lead to painful dental disease.

Cleaning a kitten or cat's teeth

o Prevent the majority of dental or gum diseases by simply regularly cleaning their teeth. 

o Check with your vet beforehand for gingivitis, which cats and kittens are very prone to. It could make tooth brushing painful for them. 

o Only use a special cat tooth brush and toothpaste; ask your vet to recommend a brand for you, as human toothpaste can damage cat's heath. Human toothbrushes are too big and harsh - again ask the vet for recommendations. Some cat toothbrushes can be worn on your finger 

o Start by gently touching the gums with your fingers or a cotton bud (USA: 'cotton swab') several times. 

o Later, allow your cat or kitten to taste the cat toothpaste, by smearing a small amount along the lips a few times. 

o Gradually introduce the cat or kitten toothbrush to delicately and gently brush teeth with cat or kitten toothpaste. 

o Give chew toys which promote dental health, which you can ask your vet about. These are particularly useful if you only feed 'wet food' (cans, pouches or non-dried-meat or fish products), although still of value for cats on dry food diets. You can also buy specific diets for cats with more severe dental problems but get your vets advice before you spend you money. Some products are endorsed by the USA's Vetinary Oral Health Council (accepted by the British Vetinary Dental Association and the European Vetinary Dental Association).

Some tips on problems to look out for:

o Dark red lines along the gum line - especially in older cats, can be sore and even ulcerated 

o Wobbly teeth and abscesses 

o Inflamed mouth lining - inside of mouth looks red, tough to swallow properly Sores or swellings on the upper lip which slowly grow larger 

o Swellings under the tongue (Salivary cysts) 

o Mouth and/or tongue ulcers (sometimes occur during respiratory or kidney illnesses)

All of the above = immediate trip to the vets.

Brushing & Bathing

Mostly your kitten or cat is 'self-cleaning' but they do benefit from some help.

o Regular cat brushing removes dirt and helps distribute natural coat oils 

o Use a special cat brush, you vet can recommend one for your particular cat - the needs vary by breed (or cross-breeds, in the case or our non-pedigree!). 

o Brush short haired cats once or twice weekly- or of course, as specially advised by your vet) 

o Brush long haired cats daily - their coat can otherwise become matted and irritate them. Don't ignore matted hair - gently tease it untangled with a slicker brush - ask your vet to recommend one. NEVER pull the hair, as this is painful and stressful for the cat and it won't get hardcore tangles out in any case. If the matting is in multiple 'clumps', or one severe 'clump', take your cat to the vets - they're very very used to dealing with this problem.

o Make it a gentle, stress-free regular time with lots of cat treats. 

o Choose a quiet place in your home and start by stroking then using the brush, then back to stroking and give plenty of treats - build an association that this a nice time. 

o NEVER scold or punish cats or kittens that don't take to grooming; gentle persistence is the key. They're stressed and frightened, rather than wilfully 'naughty'.

Hairballs

Longhaired in particular are affected by hairballs, caused by ingesting too much fur. Cats may vomit hairballs, or have diarrhoea which you'll see contains clumps of fur. Regular grooming can prevent hairballs forming by removing old and loose hairs. For persistent hairball problems, you must take them to the vet - there are products they can recommend to stop this happening, and persistent vomiting or diarrhoea is not good for their health at all.

Bathing

This is probably only really necessary if they have been in contact with oily, greasy substances which are too much for them to handle by licking off. Gently bathe them using special cat shampoos -human shampoos as these may irritate the skin. Seek you vets advice immediately if they come into contact with chemicals (such as rolling in wet paint or wood treatment products, etc) - you don't want them ingesting the chemicals by licking them as they clean themselves.

Norma De Bloom

Feline Toilet Training - Train Cats and Kittens to Use a Toilet?

If you are not someone who has had pets for a while, that sounds either weird or difficult doesn't it? It can be done-although it will require a lot of commitment from you as the owner. The biggest thing you are likely to need is patience - and lots of it. Feline toilet training is not unlike toilet training a child. Before you start any of this, you have to make sure that you know how to toilet train a feline in a litter box and that you have taken your cat through the process.You can then go ahead to take your cat through feline toilet training.This training can be modified appropriately depending on whether your intention is feline outdoor toilet training or indoor toilet training.

Step by step training your cat to use a toilet

The first thing to do is to move the litter box into the bathroom. If the litter box is a long way from the bathroom, move it closer step by step over a number of days. Once there, move the box to the side of the water closet (WC). Raise the box gradually over a number of days, until it is the same height as the WC. Ensure that the structure is rigid so that it will not fall over when your cat jumps on it.

Then, try putting a toilet training seat on your normal toilet and place a small amount of cat litter inside the training seat. Once your cats gets used to this, cut a small hole in the middle of the training seat and gradually make the hole bigger until eventually it is total open. When you have done this, your cat should now be used to using the toilet and you will not need the training seat any longer.

One thing you will need to remember, however, is that your cat won't be able to flush the toilet after use - so you will have to do it for them. Where possible i.e. you have more than one bathroom in your home, designate a particular toilet to carry out your feline toilet training. It may be a good idea to put a sign on the door stating 'feline toilet training in progress' - particularly if you have children or elderly relatives living with you, as they can be forgetful from time to time and use the designated toilet and place the lid down after use. You do not want to confuse your cat now do you?

Some experts, however, believe that feline toilet training is not natural and maybe even harmful. This is because cats naturally contract a parasite called toxoplasma, which can be caught by cats who 'do their business' outdoors. Indeed they believe that cats that have successfully undergone feline toilet training should not be allowed outdoors where the cat can pick up this parasite, return inside and transfer it into your sewage system.

Having said this, however, there are a number of advantages to feline toilet training.

Firstly, your home will smell much fresher and cleaner as you will have no smell from litter boxes inside the house. Secondly, it is environmentally friendly as you will not need to dispose of the used litter trays in dump it/landfill sites. Thirdly, you will save a small fortune by not having to buy any more litter.

So although you will not need a huge number of supplies or appliances to achieve successful feline toilet training, what you will need in abundance is patience, patience - and more patience. However, there are also many times your cat would show unhappiness or unwillingness to use the toilet when poo or poop.

Andy Baskin

Cat and Kitten Diseases

There are many cat and kitten diseases, far too numerous for me to go into at this time, plus the fact I am not too knowledgeable in that area. For now I am going to touch upon some of the more common illnesses your cats may face and ones I am more familiar with.

Pneumonitis: is a cat disease that takes on the symptoms of a human's common cold. It is caused by a virus giving the kitty a runny nose and eyes, along with sneezing and drooling.

It is not a fatal disease, but one that is very uncomfortable for the cat and its caregiver. It is not fatal and can last up to 6 weeks or more. Your vet will prescribe an antihistamine and some antibiotics along with some eye ointment. There is a vaccine for it, however it only lasts for six months and is generally only given if there is a large outbreak in the area where you are.

Urinary Infections: Cats like their human caregivers can suffer from urinary infections, cystitis and even kidney stones. All of which can be very painful.

The symptoms of a urinary infection follow along the same lines as it does for us. Straining to go to the bathroom and nothing happens, blood in the urine when able to urinate.

If your cat starts vomiting and its tummy is bloated and sensitive to your touch that is a sign of a urinary blockage and you need to call your vet immediately.

To be serious for a moment, anytime you notice any sign that your cat is having a problem going to the bathroom call your vet at once.

Swollen or Infected Anal Glands: If you see your cat sliding along your tile floor it can be a sign of one or two things. It might be a symptom of tapeworms or it could be swollen or infected anal glands. These glands are located on either side of the anus on the inside. If the glands are swollen, they need to be emptied.

My suggestion is take your kitty to your vet to have this done. If you are brave, not faint of heart and can stand the smell you can do it, however, I really don't suggest it.

Constipation: This seems to be another problem cats and humans share. A poor diet, little or no exercise, and hairballs can cause constipation in your cat.

If you notice that your cat has not had a bowel movement for a few days, is not eating like it normally does and its tummy is bloated it may be constipated. A quick call to the vet can remedy that.

Your vet may suggest an over the counter remedy you can try or you may have to bring kitty in to see him/her.

It is not a matter of life or death, just a matter of getting kitty more comfortable and getting rid of stuff inside it.

Diarrhea: Diarrhea is the opposite of constipation, it can also be caused by a poor diet, parasites, a change in routine that has upset the cat or some intestinal virus.

Loose stools or a soft bowel movement is not really a sign of diarrhea (even though we humans often consider it that, when it happens to us.) Diarrhea in a cat is really a watery stool or one that is watery and bloody. If blood should appear do not hesitate to take your kitty to the vet, it could be a serious problem.

Feeding your cat some cooked rice mixed with a little of its food or some cottage cheese can sometime control a watery stool.

Think of what you have been feeding your cat. Have you changed its diet to something new? Have you given the cat a special treat? Any of these may be the cause of the problem. If it persists for more than two days call your vet.

Vomiting: My Boots will vomit if he eats too much dry food at one time. Invariably he will do this at night and will find a spot to vomit where I will unknowingly step in it barefoot when I get up at night.

As a general rule cats do not need an excuse to vomit and most of the time it is not anything to worry about. You just clean up the mess. Hairballs seem to be the biggest cause, which is why brushing your cat is a worthwhile endeavor. Feeding your cat once a week a "hairball prevention treat" is a good idea.

However, if you cat vomits consistently it could be worms, poisoning, or an internal problem and your vet should check the cat over. If you suspect poison, rush your cat to the vet at once.

Ear Mites: Ear mites are pesky little crawly things that can get into your cat's ears and cause all kinds of problems. If nothing else they will drive your poor cat crazy as they itch and will cause kitty to dig at its ears.

There are products you can buy at the pet store to use in your cat's ears (that do not always work), but I recommend that before you attempt to play doctor, you call your vet and take kitty in to be certain that is what the problem is.

Feline Diabetes: Feline diabetes seems to be a common ailment among some cats. Insulin is a hormone produced in the pancreas that controls the flow of glucose from the bloodstream into the cells of the body.

Should the insulin be deficient, the cat's body starts to break down the fat and protein that has been stored, in order for it to be used as an alternative energy source.

Symptoms to be on the alert for are: large appetite, eating more, but losing weight, excessive thirst, and frequent urination.

Diabetes is usually found in older obese cats, males are more prone to it than females. If diabetes is not treated it will definitely shorten your cat's life. Your vet will determine the type of treatment, the changes necessary in the cat's diet and the procedure to follow to help your cat lose weight.

Roundworms and hookworms: A mother cat can transmit these critters to a kitten even if the mother has been wormed. Roundworms are long skinny (spaghetti like) worms that can be seen if your kitten vomits or you can see them in the kitten's feces.

Older cats can get them from infected soil. A trip to the vet is necessary to treat these. As these worms can be transmitted to humans.

Make certain you keep the children's sandbox covered, so neighborhood cats will not use it for potty calls. As an added precaution always have the children wash their hands when they come in from playing in the dirt.

Tapeworms: Tapeworms look like little grains of rice and cannot be detected by a fecal examination. They can be noticed on your cat's hair by its tail or even on a carpet.

Tapeworms are not harmful to children or adults and your vet will prescribe a worm medicine for your cat. There are medicines you can buy over the counter, however I am told they do not do a good job and cats do not like the taste. You need to have a medicine your cat will like, cause feeding a cat anything that is distasteful is not fun.

Ringworm: Ringworm is a nasty contagious skin infection that is caused by a fungus. It can be airborne or found in the soil.

It can be transmitted to humans and is a pain to get rid of. If you suspect that your cat has come into contact with the fungus, you will notice it first around your cat's face, ears, and paws. It is circular in appearance and needs to be treated at once by your vet.

It can spread like wildfire and you need to be careful in handling your pet. Definitely keep the children away from the cat.

Hairballs: Hairballs are a part of life when you have a cat. Cats groom themselves and as a result manage to swallow some of their hair.

If your cat has a hairball that it is trying to get rid of, you will certainly know it by the sounds it will make. My Boots would retch, gag and finally vomit, until I realized the problem, I truly thought he was about to die. My solution has been to feed him "Whiskas Temptations" for hairballs. He loves the treat and so far I have not had to go through all those horrible sounds again.

There are other hairball treatments on the market that work well too, like "Petromalt" or "Laxatone."

Longhaired cats really need to be brushed daily to help prevent this problem. If your cat vomits more than once a week, you more than likely need to talk to your vet, as it may not be a hairball problem.

I have tried in these few pages to touch upon a few of the more common cat diseases and cat problems. It is very important that you stay in contact with your vet or other cat health care provider in order to discuss any problems you may have with your cat.

Cats as a general rule are rather healthy. It is very important that you start your kitten off on the right foot with all the necessary shots and that you follow the advice of your vet on general cat care. Feeding a high quality cat food, whether it is a dry food or a wet food is very important in keeping your cat healthy. As the old saying goes "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure" and that holds true when raising a kitten into a cat.

Audrey Frederick

Before Getting a New Kitten or Cat

Before getting a new kitten or cat, one of the things to ask yourself is: Can I properly care for a cat and provide a stable, safe home for its lifetime which is typically about 15 - 20 years? Many statistics show that as much as 50 percent of all cats change owners at least once in their lifetime. This is an appalling and alarming statistic.

Can I Afford A Cat?

The initial purchase price (or adoption fee) of a cat is not the most expensive cost as there will be many other costs over the cat's lifetime. Those costs include food, litter pans, litter, toys, scratching posts and/or cat trees, and veterinary care. Veterinary care (without taking into consideration any catastrophic health problems) will run about $100 - $300 per year. Preventive and consistent care is vitally important to any cat's overall health. If an owner cannot afford veterinary care, 

it is probably a good idea not to get a cat. Additionally, depending on where an owner lives, there will be a one-time fee of anywhere from $70 - $500 for the cost of getting the cat spay or neutered. Even if the cat is an indoor only cat, it recommended that it have all of its vaccinations, including rabies (a rabies vaccination are legally required in many cities and/or states for cats and dogs), and depending on where you live, there may be other medications that are strongly recommended by the veterinarian on a yearly basis (such as a heartworm preventative medicine). Many people believe that because their cat is an indoor cat, it does not need a rabies vaccination. 

However, consider what would happen to you and/or your cat if it bit someone while they were in your home? First of all, the authorities will most likely remove the cat from your home and quarantine it for a period of time (at cost to you for boarding and care); if on the off chance your cat shows signs of rabies it will be destroyed. It is highly recommended that a potential owner check with their veterinarian to find out what vaccinations are required by law.

What Breed of Cat?

All kittens are cute and most people fall in love with a cat or kitten because of its look (the cuddlebility factor). Some people prefer a pedigreed cat because of certain breed characteristics while others prefer a mixed breed cat. If desiring a pedigreed cat, careful consideration should be given as to the breed characteristics of that breed. For example: how much grooming will the cat require, how much will it shed, how playful or active is the breed, how big will the cat get? Are you looking for a cat that gets along well with small children or elderly people? Do you need a cat that gets along with your dog? Do you desire a cat that is calm and loves to cuddle and will sleep with you at night? These are just a few of the things to consider before bringing a cat home.

Should You Get a Kitten or an Adult Cat?

Many people, when considering whether or not to get a cat, will only consider getting a kitten. Here are a few reasons why an adult cat may be desirable:

An adult cat has already developed its personality so you will know exactly what you are getting;

An adult cat is already litter box trained;

An adult cat should only need yearly examinations and vaccinations (instead of a series of vaccinations that a kitten will require in the first 6 months);

An adult cat has already gone through its "teenager" phase;

An adult cat can "bond" just as well as a kitten with a new owner.

Where to Get a Cat?

Animal Shelters - While many shelters are no-kill, most are not. Getting a cat or kitten from an animal shelter may well save it from being put to death. Typically, you should look for a cat that looks clean, healthy, with a shiny coat and clear eyes. Ask to visit with the kitten or cat in a private area to see how it will interact with you. How friendly is it? If the kitten or cat appears lethargic, it may be best to look at another one as this one may be sick. Ask the actual caregivers of the cat or kitten for any information they may have on it. Ask why the cat was surrendered to the shelter. Keep in mind that many people do not always tell the truth to shelter personnel when they surrender their pet. So, sometimes the shelter may not be aware that this cat or kitten may have undesirable behavioral traits (i.e., not using its litter box) or have some type of major health concern which may shortly require a very high veterinarian bill. Many shelters will have already spayed or neutered the cat or kitten prior to its going to a new home. If not, they will generally require that you do so within a certain time period. Do not over-look the adult cats.

Responsible Breeders - If you are looking for a purebred/pedigreed cat or kitten, it is best to locate a responsible breeder. To find such a person:

Visit a local cat show which is a great way to see the different breeds of cats, meet breeders, and ask questions.

The Cat Fanciers Association ("CFA") has an on-line breeder referral list which can be searched by breed, location, and other search options. (Please Note: the CFA does not endorse or recommend any particular breeder or cattery on the list.)

Nowadays, there are many show breeders, as well as hobby breeders, that have web sites. To locate a breeder in a particular area via the internet, use a search engine (i.e., yahoo, Google, etc.) and type in the particular cat breed and the state you reside to get results for breeders in your particular state or locale. Some breeders advertise in Cat Fancy or other such publications.

Responsible breeders will have (at a bare minimum) a written health/genetic guarantee, provide a starter kit that goes home with the kitten or cat (containing the type of food it has been eating, feeding instructions, breed information), have some provision for (or already had it performed) the spay/neuter of the kitten or cat, provide documentation of pedigree, parentage, and vaccination records. When interviewing a breeder, listen to your intuition; if anything feels "off" about a breeder, do NOT get one of their kittens. If this happens, it is recommended that you seek out and interview another breeder. Remember, a responsible breeder will want to interview you and get to know you as a potential owner as much as you may want to interview them.

Pet Stores - A responsible breeder would not allow their kittens to be sold in a pet store or other re-sale outlet where they could not personally interview the buyer to make sure they are aware of the responsibility of caring for an animal. Most responsible breeders belong to breed clubs and sign a breeder's code of ethics which prohibits them from selling to retail outlets (pet stores). More often than not, the puppies and kittens for sale in a retail outlet are from commercial, "puppy" mill type operations. Some stores (i.e., Petco, etc.) do have cats for adoption through a local animal shelter but are not actively involved in the resale of cats and dogs. If getting a shelter pet through this type of adoption process, make sure that the adoption procedures comply with that shelter's normal adoption process.

Private Sources - Sometimes, if an owner can no longer keep their adult cat, they may place an ad through a local newspaper, grocery store bulletin board or veterinarian's office. As long as you can meet the person, observe the cat in its home environment, and make sure the cat is healthy, there is no reason not to get a cat this way. If it is a kitten, make sure it is at least 12 weeks of age, is properly litter box trained, had age-appropriate vaccinations/wormings, and appears healthy. (Warning: responsible breeders would not advertise this way nor use Craigslist or something similar).

Getting a cat is a lifelong commitment of not only an owner's time, but their money in order to keep them in food, toys, and proper health. If the on-going cost of keeping a cat beyond the initial cost of it (i.e., veterinarian, vaccinations, cost of spay/neuter, unforeseen health issues/costs and more), then perhaps it is not the time to get a pet.

Susan M MacArthur