What to Know About Cat Behavior

Understanding Outdoor Cat Care to Ensure Your Feline Remains Safe

Outdoor cat care needs to be considered if your cat has chosen to living outside, and although you may not totally agree some cats simply prefer it. There are many different cats that live outside, and although some people feel that all cats should be house cats for some this is not an option. Cats are ultimately outdoor animals that love to run, hunt, and dig in the dirt. Some cats wander for miles every evening whilst others feel safe in the confines of your back yard.

Whether you have a farm cat that lives outside all year, or a cat that comes and goes when they feel like it, you will want to provide them shelter.  The winter months are especially difficult for cats that live outside. You will need to ensure that you provide several things to keep them safe and healthy. Encouraging your cat to come inside is the preferred option; however, some cats simply prefer to spend their time outside.  Outdoor cat care is simple to achieve, and will make you feel better about your cat being outside.

You will want to ensure that you provide a shelter for your cat that is warm, dry and clean for them to sleep in.  Smaller spaces are ideal as they will provide shelter from the wind, and your cat can curl up in the comfort of their own body heat.  If your cat is sleeping in a barn or garage, you need to ensure that the area is safe for them to do so, with no hazardous materials that the cat can easily get into. Providing clean fresh water and food is very important during the winter months as your cat will need to build up their energy.

You should check your cat's water supply daily to ensure it has not frozen, or become dirty. Providing the right food will also help to keep your outdoor cat healthy.  During the summer months, your cat may be off exploring, and hunting, however, during the winter there will be less to catch. You will need to ensure that your cat is fat and healthy so they can survive the winter no matter how harsh it is.  You should also ensure that you have your cat regularly checked by the vet, and that they are vaccinated and neutered.

Over population of cats is a huge problem, especially with outdoor cats, and you want to ensure that your cat is not part of the problem. There are many risks and dangers that your cat will encounter living outside, however, they will be far happier. The night times are far more dangerous, and if possible, you should let your cat out during the day, but keep them inside at night. They are less likely to be attacked by other animals during the day.

You may be fortunate enough to have a back yard with very high walls. This will allow your cat the best of both worlds, with their daily exercise and fresh air, but the advantage of not being able to escape. Outdoor cat car is often about common sense, and ensuring that your cat is well loved and looked after no matter where they decide to live.

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Understanding Outdoor Cat Care to Ensure Your Feline Remains Safe

Understanding Outdoor Cat Care to Ensure Your Feline Remains Safe

Outdoor cat care needs to be considered if your cat has chosen to living outside, and although you may not totally agree some cats simply prefer it. There are many different cats that live outside, and although some people feel that all cats should be house cats for some this is not an option. Cats are ultimately outdoor animals that love to run, hunt, and dig in the dirt. Some cats wander for miles every evening whilst others feel safe in the confines of your back yard.

Whether you have a farm cat that lives outside all year, or a cat that comes and goes when they feel like it, you will want to provide them shelter.  The winter months are especially difficult for cats that live outside. You will need to ensure that you provide several things to keep them safe and healthy. Encouraging your cat to come inside is the preferred option; however, some cats simply prefer to spend their time outside.  Outdoor cat care is simple to achieve, and will make you feel better about your cat being outside.

You will want to ensure that you provide a shelter for your cat that is warm, dry and clean for them to sleep in.  Smaller spaces are ideal as they will provide shelter from the wind, and your cat can curl up in the comfort of their own body heat.  If your cat is sleeping in a barn or garage, you need to ensure that the area is safe for them to do so, with no hazardous materials that the cat can easily get into. Providing clean fresh water and food is very important during the winter months as your cat will need to build up their energy.

You should check your cat's water supply daily to ensure it has not frozen, or become dirty. Providing the right food will also help to keep your outdoor cat healthy.  During the summer months, your cat may be off exploring, and hunting, however, during the winter there will be less to catch. You will need to ensure that your cat is fat and healthy so they can survive the winter no matter how harsh it is.  You should also ensure that you have your cat regularly checked by the vet, and that they are vaccinated and neutered.

Over population of cats is a huge problem, especially with outdoor cats, and you want to ensure that your cat is not part of the problem. There are many risks and dangers that your cat will encounter living outside, however, they will be far happier. The night times are far more dangerous, and if possible, you should let your cat out during the day, but keep them inside at night. They are less likely to be attacked by other animals during the day.

You may be fortunate enough to have a back yard with very high walls. This will allow your cat the best of both worlds, with their daily exercise and fresh air, but the advantage of not being able to escape. Outdoor cat car is often about common sense, and ensuring that your cat is well loved and looked after no matter where they decide to live.

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Tips in Choosing the Best in Three Cat Care Products

Tips in Choosing the Best in Three Cat Care Products

Cat care products are the best investments that a pet owner can make toward the maintenance of health in their domestic felines. These products provide for good nutrition, good sleep and other aspects of the good life where cats are concerned obviously.

But since you are neither a cat nor a human with the ability to communicate with cats, you may have a hard time choosing which of these products will be best for your pet. Well, wonder no more as the following tips can help in separating the good from the bad in these products.

Cat Food

Obviously, the most important cat care products that every owner must always have in stock are a wide variety of cat food. We say wide variety because it is always a good idea to alternate wet and dry cat food as well as add a few treats to the daily menu. Never ever feed your pet cat with table scraps if you want to protect its health.

The things to look for in cat food are:

• Age-appropriate food (i.e., kittens, adults and seniors)
• Approved by the Association of American Food Control Officials
• Recommended by the veterinarian
• Manufactured using high-quality ingredients and in balanced quantities

You must ask the veterinarian about the appropriate amounts and frequency of cat food to be provided to your pet. Special conditions like underlying medical disorders, physical condition and breed characteristics will contribute to changes in the normal diet.

Cat Beds

Many first-time owners may see no need for cat care products like cat beds mainly because of the notion that a few old beddings are sufficient for the purpose. But this should not be so since health problems can arise from inappropriate bedding such as the presence of fleas, mites and other parasites.

When looking for a cat bed, we suggest the following desirable features:

• Bedding materials must provide for warmth and comfort since a cat needs all the help it can have to maintain body heat. The beddings must also be washable while also drying quickly, which will discourage the growth of mold and fungus.
• Size of the cat bed must be sufficient for the cat to move in but still provide for the feeling of being in a burrow. A cup-style bed is best.

Of course, it is important to look for durable materials in your preferred design. But always remember that comfort is always the most important quality in a cat bed.

Cat Carriers

Yet another of the cat care products that an owner must never be without is the cat carrier. This is the invaluable equipment in house training and in traveling, hence, their must-have status among pet owners.

When buying the cat e are the most desirable features:

• Made from durable materials and parts
• Easy to clean
• Easy to use and must be compliant with the rules regarding air travel with animals
• Lightweight but stable (tip-proof)
• Secure closure mechanisms
• Attractive

There are other cat care products, of course, including grooming products like combs and brushes, training products like vests and harnesses and nutritional products like supplements. But if you can purchase the abovementioned three products, then you are well on your way to responsible pet ownership.

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Three Changes to Adopt for Elderly Cat Care

Three Changes to Adopt for Elderly Cat Care

Cats like their human counterparts will also experience physiological changes that come with the aging process. As such, elderly cat care considerably differs from caring for kittens and adult cats especially when it comes to daily care. Veterinary visits also become more frequent with the obvious goal of diagnosing diseases and disorders as early as possible so as to increase the favorable chances for a good prognosis.

The following changes are the easiest ones that pet owners can adopt for their cats' daily care. Asking the veterinarian for special tips is also an excellent idea if your cat has an underlying medical condition.

Changes in Diet

Unlike dogs, cats maintain similar levels of energy needs all throughout their adulthood although senior cats tend to lose a few percentage of their body fat. As such, the caloric needs may stay the same but the fat requirements can increase. This is a general rule, however, in elderly cat care where diet is concerned with notable exceptions for more than a few senior cats.

You must carefully monitor the weight gain or weight loss of elderly cats for two reasons. First, you can adjust the cat's diet depending on his weight progress. Obesity being a problem in cats, you want to avoid feeding your pet too much.

Second, you can have the cat immediately examined by the veterinarian if the weight gain or weight loss appears significant. Either case can signal an underlying medical condition that may or may not be related to the cat's diet.

Changes in the diet as part of elderly cat care are also necessary because the structure of the teeth and the digestive system changes with age. For example, senior cats are more prone to constipation than their kitten and adult counterparts.

Changes in Grooming

The cat's fur also changes with age. The hair becomes thinner and duller while the skin becomes drier in cats, all of which leads to a host of health problems. Hairballs are more frequent because of the faster rate of shedding in the rapidly thinning hair while the thinner skin becomes more prone to injuries and, as a consequence, slower to heal. You must be very vigilant about grooming your pet cat as well as checking for lumps, bumps and sores while you are doing so.

Changes in skin and hair also demand certain changes suitable for elderly cat care. For one thing, you must add fatty acid supplements to the diet so as to bring back the luster of the coat and to protect the skin from injuries. For another thing, brushing sessions must also be increased mainly to spread the oil from the sebaceous glands into the other parts of the cat's body, which will lessen dry skin.

Changes in Physical Activity

And then there are the changes in physical activity borne of the decreased functioning of the lungs and the heart, not to mention the development of joint diseases like arthritis. Despite the weaker body, you must encourage your pet cat to engage in physical activity even if it means playing with a yarn of ball.

Proper elderly cat care is a responsibility that every pet owner must take to heart. It behooves every pet owner to take care of their loyal companions till their last breath.

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The Best Cat Eye Care PracticesThe Best Cat Eye Care Practices

The Best Cat Eye Care PracticesThe Best Cat Eye Care Practices

Keeping your cat's eyes healthy is not hard.  Cat eye care can be included in your standard grooming practices and does not take that much extra time. It all starts with a simple at home inspection. You can do this in any well-lit room, and you simply need to look your cat in the eyes.  Picking your pet up and holding it while looking at his or her eyes in the sunshine is one way to do it. Take note of how your cat's eyes look.  A cat's eyes should be clear, alert, and sparkling. You should not see any color change in the iris or any cloudiness in the pupil. The area around the eye should not be inflamed.  The pupils should be the same size.  This established, you should gently roll down the eyelid a little to make sure the lid's underside is healthy pink, not lacking blood flow or reddened and swollen.

If you notice a discharge, watery eyes, a non-pink eyelid lining, crusty gunk or dried mucus around the eyes, tear stains on the fur, that her eyes won't open, the third eyelid, or changes in clarity and/or color when making your visible inspection, you need to step up your cat eye care program to deal with the causes of these conditions. Also, watch your cat for signs of squinting, pawing at the eyes, or other odd body language.  Do not delay taking your cat to the vet if you spot any of these conditions.

One way to help maintain your cat's health that is simple is adding a little cat eye care step to their grooming routine. Using a moistened cotton ball you should wipe away any dried mucus or other crusty residue.  Wipe away from the eyes.  Use a fresh ball for each eye.  If you notice there are hairs that might be causing this excess production of tears or mucus, you should trim those away. It is not suggested using any type of eyewash or drop unless the vet has prescribed them.   Any discharge you see should be a sign that you need to have your cat looked at by the vet.

Cat eye care requires knowing a little about the different diseases that impact the eyes. Red and swollen eyes can indicate Conjunctivitis.  A cloudy eye can indicate Keratitis, a cataract or Glaucoma. Worms, parasites, and viruses can cause the third eyelid to be inflamed or visible and seeing that should get you cat a trip to the vet.  Chronic watery eyes or the eyes looking like they are bulging can indicate several different causes, and taking your pet to the vet is the best way to determine what is going on. In all these cases, your vet can provide you with drops, ointments, or other medicines to help treat them. Remember a little prevention goes a long way- get your cat vaccinated and keep up with check-ups to avoid long-term issues with your cat's eyes.

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Taking care of your Pregnant Cat

Taking care of your Pregnant Cat

We will all be faced with being adopted by a stray cat.  Should that stray be female and pregnant, you will need to know a few things about pregnant cat care in order to determine your course of action with that animal. Of course, knowing what to do for a pregnant cat can help you care for your pet should you have a young female who is not spayed that gets out overnight.

The first step in pregnant cat care is a trip to the veterinarian. Your Vet can tell you if the cat can or should be spayed, the stage of the pregnancy, possible diseases and parasites, and treatment options. Knowing things like this can help you determine what you need to do, if anything, to ensure that the kittens and mother are healthy.

Because pregnant cats need to consume food for themselves and the kittens they are carrying, proper food is a vital component of pregnant cat care, and one needs to pay close attention to this.  The recommended food types vary, but in general, a mix of quality dry food, with the addition of kitten food on an increasing level until the last half to third of the pregnancy.  It is a good idea to make sure you pregnant cat has plenty of fresh water, and consider adding calcium supplements to the diet. If your cat eats moist food then adding kitten food to this is still a good idea. The last week of the pregnancy, you should also offer her kitten milk replacement supplements so she has plenty of nutrition in her blood for making milk when she begins to nurse. 

You should not neglect other basics in your pregnant cat care program.  She will need a good litter box that is easy to get into and out of, low enough to be easy to step over the edge.  You should keep this box as clean as possible, scooping it out often and cleaning it well a couple times a week.  Do not neglect play times or take away toys, scratching posts, or lounging spots.  Your cat may tire more easily, but still will enjoy these activities. The most important thing is to restrict your cat to indoors.  Get her used to being inside so that she does not wind up repeating the experience. Plus having her inside means that you will know when and where the kittens are born.

The final thing about pregnant cat care to keep in mind is that you will have a bundle of helpless kittens and a very tired mommy cat at the end of it.  Make sure you have an area for her to give birth that can be closed off and that you have extra bowls for water and food handy. Adding a second litter box is a good idea too. Provide your cat with a large box lined with clean old towels and rags so that she can have a small secure area to give birth.

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Taking care of your Cat Dental Care

Taking care of your Cat Dental Care

Cats have teeth, so cat owners need to pay attention to cat dental care. It is not something that we often consider necessary, but some common sense can ensure that your cat and his or her teeth remain healthy.  Preventing peridontal disease, feline stomatitis, FORL, and malocclusion through a good cat dental care habit is easier than most people realize.

Your cat dental care program should include a simple at-home examination of the teeth and gums.  You might want to have a pen light handy. Before anything else, check your pet's breath. Carefully, with your thumb and index finger, spread your cat's mouth open and look at the back teeth for signs of yellowing or darker material, and take note of the color of the cat's gums. Then repeat this for the front teeth. You should also look at the back of the cat's throat for anything unusual, like a cobblestone texture or redness. Having a small angled dental mirror will make this task easier.   Do not forget to reward your cat for being patient with you, perhaps with a dental chew.  This should be done once a month or so and should be followed by a check by the vet once or twice a year.

Another major thing you should be doing as part of your cat dental care practices is brushing your cat's teeth at least a couple times a week, although daily is better. To start with, you should use your finger, so that the cat gets used to the process. You will need to have sterile gauze, scissors, cat toothpaste or a vet recommended weak sterile solution. Be aware that cat toothpaste comes in several flavors so you should experiment to find one your cat likes.  You will want to have these things laid out, and be sitting with your cat in your lap- preferably on something that will keep the cat from clawing you if they protest too much. Begin by wrapping a strip of gauze on the index finger of your dominant hand.  Dip the gauze in the solution or apply a dab of toothpaste to the tip of your finger. That done you need to open the cat's mouth. Your gauze wrapped finger is your brush, and you will want to gently rub the cat's teeth and gums in a light circular pattern.  You need not worry about the backs of the teeth, just get the outsides and the gums clean.  If you notice bleeding gums then you should take your cat to the vet.

Two major tips to make cat dental care easier. First, start while the cat is young to get them used to having it done. That way, by the time a baby toothbrush will fit the cat's mouth, he or she will be used to your brushing his or her teeth. Secondly, always reward your cat for being good.  This is an excellent time to offer a dental chew and a lot of love to your pet.

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