Why Set Up An Aquarium?
Why Set Up An Aquarium?
You’ve been to the pet store and noticed the fish tanks and thought “maybe I could do that”. Guess what, you can “do that” and it’s not nearly as difficult as you may think.
The Most Annoying Cat Behavior ” Urine Spraying
Cat spraying urine in the house is one of the most annoying and frustrating cat behavior problem. Constant urine smell is pretty hard to tolerate and sadly but not surprisingly, some cats will have to take a one way trip to the shelter. However, as with most cat behavior problems, there is a reason as to why the cat sprays. Identifying the cause can greatly help you in finding the right solution to stop this annoying habit. Why do they spray? Spraying should not be confused with inappropriate urination since it is an intentional act. In entire cats, urine spraying is part of a normal and natural behavior. It is a way to convey territorial and sexual messages to other cats. Not only tomcats spray, queens in heat will spray too to let others know they are ready to mate. In neutered cats, the most common reasons for urine marking is competition and territorial disputes between cats in multi-cat households, moving to a new house, arrival of a new baby or another pet and situations where the cat feels unsafe and insecure so it may feel the need to ‘reinforce’ its ‘territory’. How to stop them spraying Firstly, your cat should have a health check to make sure there is no underlying medical condition causing its behavior. It is possible the cat has cystitis or some other elimination problem. Since urine spraying in entire cats is primarily a sexual behavior, neutering can help to control this behavior in most cases. In addition, it will also reduce territoriality and aggression between cats. Yet, it is not necessarily a cure-all and don’t expect your cat will stop spraying right away - it may take two to three months. Clean soiled areas thoroughly. You can purchase cleaners and odor neutralizers at your local pet store or simply use diluted vinegar. Stay away from products containing ammonia - they could stimulate the marking behavior as urine also contains ammonia. If you own more cats, you will need to provide each cat with one litter box and you should have one extra box for the house. Cats don’t like dirty boxes! Try to identify the reason why your cat sprays. If for example a new person has moved into the house, have him or her feed your cat to establish a bond between them. If your cat is anxious then try to reduce the stress levels by playing with it in areas where it tends to spray. If your cat is spraying in one room only, keep the door locked. If it is spraying only in one or two locations and you cannot keep the cat out, make it to a feeding and playing area. Most cats are very clean animals and will not urinate near their food. Use Feliway spray or diffuser (a synthetic equivalent of feline facial pheromones) in all areas where your cat marks. Feliway makes the cat feel comfortable and safe and decreases its instinctive urges. If you have more cats and they don’t get along, you should initially separate them to see if spraying continues. Then you could gradually reintroduce them in situations that create positive associations such as playing and feeding in combination with calming effect of Feliway. You should never punish your cat by dragging it to its litter box, rubbing its nose in litter or smacking it. In fact, you will make the matters much worse. Your cat will then associate punishment with you and the litter box; it may become anxious and start to spray even more. If nothing works then ask your vet for advice or referral to a cat behaviorist. In severe cases, where all cat behavior training and modification techniques fail your vet can prescribe appropriate medication (usually anti-anxiety drugs).
Sarah is a vet with special interest in cats. She owns Cat Behavior Site where people can find practical tips & advice on <a href="http://www.catbehaviortraining.com" title="Cat Behavior Problems">cat training</a>
Ragdoll Cat: Ten Characteristics Of This Loving Cat
Ancestry: The Ragdoll Cat was first bread in the 1960 s by an American breeder named Ann Baker. She selectively bred a Persian/angora with Burmese like cats with Siamese markings and their offspring resulted in the Ragdoll cat, a cat with an endearing temperament. Limp: The name Ragdoll came from the fact that they go completely limp and relaxed when picked up and held. Pain: It has been said that the Ragdoll is impervious to pain but this simply is not true, it is just a myth. Indoor: The Ragdoll is strictly an indoor cat that is not aggressive and cannot defend itself. It has a very easy going laid back temperament and is perfectly happy as a house pet. Loving Nature: This is a large, loving, calm people cat, always considerate and gentle, particularly with children. It makes an ideal pet and gets along with other felines and dogs too. Size: As said above this is a large cat! It is a big boned and heavy set cat and when mature, the male can weigh in at 20 pounds or more with the female being a little smaller. Coat: This is a semi-longhaired cat with rabbit like fur, which requires minimal grooming on a weekly basis to keep in top condition. The hair should be combed and any knots or tangles removed, particularly behind the ears. Colour: The cat comes in four recognised colours, chocolate, lilac, blue and seal although breeders have extended this range now to tortie points, tabby points and more which may be transposed over each of three patterns of Bicolour, Mitted or Colourpointed. Maturity: Ragdolls are slow to mature, taking three to four years to reach full maturity and the desired coat qualities and definition. Play: Want a cat that greets you at the door like a dog, then this is the one! They have dog like characteristics and will fetch toys and even beg. They love being around people and will follow their owners around the home, getting into everything you do and generally being a little mischievous.
Sarah-Anne has been an animal care expert for 10 years. Want to know more about Ragdolls then click this link http://mainecoon.freeranger.hop.clickbank.net/ If you want to know how to make your cat adore you then click this link http://mainecoon.banfdotcom.hop.clickbank.net/ If you are concerned about your cats health then click this link http://mainecoon.kittycat.hop.clickbank.net/ for the best cat health and care resource guide.
Proper Care of Cats
Just like us, cats have needs and their needs must be provide especially if you have them as pets. Their needs are just normal when it comes to the basic and as well as material. What matters most is the affection and care you share for these animals. When they feel that you are sincerely taking care of them, they would really feel it.
What do cats need?
The following are the things cats needs for better growth and development:
Cat food
Cats could be very greedy but you have to watch their diet. There is this right amount of food. When cats are younger than 12 weeks, they need to have 4 small meals but when they grow as old as more than 12 weeks; you could gradually trim down the number of meals to 2. Water must also be provided but milk is not encouraged for it would only cause diarrhea to cats. Feeding them with grass from time to time could also help out in their digestion of food.
Cat belongings
There are items you need to provide to your cat that would surely make it feel the comfort and in effect these things are sure help for you to have a clean and orderly home. One of the most important things you have to provide is the litter container. Well, cats may be clean animals but just to make sure, you place a litter container for your pet to use. This would let you overcome having a smelly home. Change it often, you will both be much happier.
- A scratching post is another thing that must be provided by the conscientious pet owner. This will keep the home furnishings out of harms way. Cats need a place to scratch when they are growing their nails.
Cat grooming
They also need to look good. Proper grooming must be given to cats. When they feel pampered, they would radiate it and echo it to you. When your cat is long-haired, see to it that you comb the hair daily and give your pet a generous bath from time to time. When your pet is short-haired, just see to it that you get rid of fleas and other parasites. They have to remove as much as possible for they may also go and stay in your belongings at home like carpets and others. Tooth brushing is also very hygienic.
These are three important points that must really be remembered because they will definitely make your cats live the best life possible. If you pamper your special pet with proper care and affection, they will surely return the favor.
Author: Gail Hoyos Copyright 2007 Know exactly what your pet is eating. Visit my site for ideas for making your own cat treats and food. Pamper that Pet! They will love you for it! www.petsarefriendly.com
Maine Coon Cats ” Eight Things You May Not Know About Them.
Myths and legends handed down through generations have told the tale that the Maine Coon cat is a cross between a semi-wild cat, a domestic cat and a racoon, hence the name Maine Coon!. Another legend is that the cats originated from the longhaired cats that belonged to Marie Antoinette and sent to America where she was planning to escape to from the French Revolution. Here are seven more things you may not know about Maine Coon cats: * The Maine Coon Cat is the only native long haired cat from North America, held in high regard for their mousing talents . Originally a working cat and through natures own breeding program, have developed into the strongest and most adaptable cats to survive the harsh New England winters. * Everything about the cat points to the harsh climate from where it originated, heavy, water resistant coat, which is longer on the ruff, breaches and stomach to protect against the snow, ears that are pointed and tufted inside, large paws and hardy constitution to survive the varied seasons of the region. * The Maine Coon is one of the largest breeds of domestic cat and can grow up to 40 inches (just over a metre) long. The male can weigh in at around 18Ibs when fully grown. There have been many big cat sightings in the United Kingdom; who knows, perhaps people are actually seeing Maine Coons? * They have a distinctive M shape on their foreheads and they have a lovely trill for a meow, which they use when they want attention from feeding to wanting to play. * The cats are known for their loving nature, intelligence and mischievous behaviour. Not particularly a lap cat but more of a pal , willing to investigate whatever it is you are doing and lending a helping paw! They remain playful throughout their lives. * The Maine Coon changes coats in spring and autumn and is pretty good at keeping its own coat well groomed but due to the shear length and quantity of fur will benefit from a weekly comb. * This is a cat that likes playing with, but not necessarily in, water! They will skim their paws across water, dip food or toys in water and even walk around a bath being filled with water.
Sarah-Anne has been an animal care expert for 10 years. If you want to know how to make your cat adore you then click this link http://mainecoon.banfdotcom.hop.clickbank.net/ If you are concerned about your cats health then click this link http://mainecoon.kittycat.hop.clickbank.net/ for the best cat health and care resource guide.
Choosing a dog breed
Buying a new pet especially a dog can be very exciting but getting the right breed is important.