Owner: For Your Cat URL:http://www.4yourcatshealth.com Join Date: Mon, 16 Apr 2007 11:51:38 -0500 Rating:0 Site Description: Fun, yet informative cat health care blog featuring articles, news updates, photos, trivia, polls, resources and more. Site statistics:Click here
Heat Stroke 2007-04-09 18:40:53 Heat Stroke
by: Laurie Buckley, admin
Summer will soon be on its way so it’s important to know that cats are vulnerable to heat stroke. Longhairs are especially vulnerable when on a long car journey as traveling baskets or carriers in a confined space have less ventilation. Heat stroke symptoms are exceptionally rapid breathing, the appearance of the haws, and a noticeable rise in temperature, and they can appear alarmingly quickly. When going on a long journey always have water, a dish and an old towel handy. If the first signs of distress appear, offer the cat a drink and then wrap her in a wet towel, paying particular attention to the head, but be sure she can breathe easily. If symptoms persist, seek veterinary help. On recovery, there are usually no after-effects. You can minimize the chance of heat stroke by ensuring a flow of freash air over the carrier and keeping it in the shade. At rest stops the car should be opened up or place the carrier outside. Never leave a cat al
Minor Wounds 2007-04-02 18:41:39 Minor Wounds
by: Laurie Buckley, admin
From time to time, most cats will sustain minor wounds. These wounds are usually as a result of fights with dogs or other cats or when attacking prey. The cats ears, face, and front paws are most vulnerable. One should inspect wounds for any dirt or other matter that could be removed with cotton wool and then bathe the wound in a salt solution, 1 tsp to 1 pint of cooled, boiled water. You should not use proprietary disinfectants as these may be harmful to the cat. If the wound fails to heal or developes an abcess seek veterinary attention asap.
Read more:Minor
Rare Breeds 2007-03-26 18:45:05 The Siberian Cat
by: Laurie Buckley, admin
The Siberian Cat or otherwise known as the Siberian Forest Cat, is a member of those group of breeds who are built to withstand harsh conditions, such as the Maine Coon and the Norwegian Forest Cat.
Characteristics- The Siberian Cat is described as a large, massive and strong animal. The tail is long and full, with a plume. The head is rounded and has a strong, round muzzle, with a slight break in the muzzle. The ears are medium sized and round-tipped, and set wide and low on the head. The coat is glossy and has oily guard hairs and a prominent ruff.
The Siberian is said to be an affectionate pet whose muscular physique, however, will require ample outdoor excercise. Grooming should be done every 2-3 days. The kittens are slow to grow their adult coats.
Myth & Folklore 2007-03-19 19:01:46 Adam, Eve & Lilith Superstition
by: Laurie Buckley, admin
The origin of this superstition seems to go all the way back to an ancient Hebrew folk tale. According to this folk tale, Lilith was Adam’s wife before Eve. She was banished from the garden of Eden for refusing to submit to Adam and then haunted the earth as a demon. Sephardic Jews believed that Lilith sucked the blood of the newborn by taking the form of a giant black cat named El Broosha.
Read more:Folklore
Cat Door Training 2007-03-05 16:26:31 Using A Cat Door
by: Laurie Buckley, admin
Cats will need to be trained how to use a cat door if they are unfamiliar with one. You should begin by first showing them from each side how the flap can be made to swing to and fro with a paw, and encouraged to go through the hole while the flap is left open, in return for a treat and praise. This may be repeated but be sure to gradually decrease the opening until finally the cat is doing all the work itself. Once at this stage, training can then be turned into a game by feeding a scrap of paper tied to the end of a string through the cat’s side and then jerking the paper through. Be sure to remember to demonstrate and reinforce the use of the flap in both directions.
Read more:Training
Classification Of The Cat: Body Types, Part II 2007-02-26 17:20:30 The “Foreign” Cat
by: Laurie Buckley, admin
The second basic body type is the “foreign” cat. An extreme example of the so-called foreign type would be the Siamese. The word “foreign” in this context has no geographical connotations; it simply means, in terms of the cat fancy, non-cobby. The Siamese which is an extreme example of the “foreign” type is described as Oriental. The foreign or Oriental body is slender and lithe, with a narrow and wedged shaped head and long legs. Generally, the impression it gives is one of sleekness, sinuos movement, and relatively light weight.
Read more:Body Types
, Classification
Classification Of The Cat: Body Types, Part I 2007-02-19 21:03:13 The Cobby Cat
by: Laurie Buckley, admin
There are two basic body types. The first one is described as a cobby, and is exemplified by the British Shorthair and the Persian. The cobby type features a compact, sturdy body with a deep chest, broad shoulders and hind quarters, short legs and tail and a short, round head. There is however a considerable scope for variations within this broad definition. An example of this being, a round-headed cat may have a short or medium nose, small or medium ears, eyes set closer to or farther from the nose, and so on. Most moggies or alley cats are cobby cats.
Read more:Body Types
, Classification
Rare Breeds 2007-02-12 20:29:51 The Burmilla
by: Laurie Buckley, admin
The Burmilla is a tipped Burmese type that was created in Britain in 1981 as a result of a mating between a chincilla Longhair (Persian) male and a lilac Burmese female.
Origins of the Breed- In 1985 the Burmilla was given its breed name, and a breed club was formed. In 1990, preliminary status was granted in Britain in what is now called the Asian-Burmilla Group. The Burmilla, however is not recognized in the United States although it has been introduced there.
Characteristics- The Burmilla has a semi-foriegn body, which is medium in length and thickness with firm muscle and a straight, level back. It’s tail should be medium in both length and thickness, and should taper to a rounded tip. The head is a short wedge with a distinct nose break, gently rounded on top. The Burmilla’s ears are medium to large and set well apart, round-tipped, and inclined slightly forward. The eyes are full and set well apart also. The coat is short, close-
Cat Anatomy & Senses 2007-02-05 18:00:07 Body Language
by: Laurie Buckley, admin
When cat’s communicate between one another, body language is more significant than vocal expression. The body language of the cat involves movements of the ears, whiskers, hair, spine, legs and tail. There are some experts today in fact who have claimed to have distinguished nine different facial expressions and sixteen body and tail postures. These expressions and postures can be used by the cat in a variety of ways to express subtleties of meaning - or a more accurately way of putting it, of reactions to events - only partly accessible to humans.
For example, let’s take aggression. Aggression is signaled by the raising of the cat’s tail, with the hair all fluffed out and the tail waving slightly. The cat’s facial whiskers will bristle forward, the ears erect but curled slightly backwards, and the pupils narrow to slits. The angrier the cat becomes, the more its ears will go back and its whiskers forward. And if the cat i Read more:Senses
Non-Pedigree Cats 2007-04-17 18:45:27 Classification of Non-Pedigree
Cats
by: Laurie Buckley, admin
Non-pedigree cats as pets have the advantage of having bred naturally, albeit usually by accident. They also more likely than not, have strays at some point within their ancestry. Non-pedigees are likely to be both healthy and hardy, with the weaker strains having been weeded out by the laws of survival. They also tend to be more adaptable and less tempermental than pedigrees, less demanding of attention and less noisy and boisterous than some of the pedigree breeds. Owners of non-pedigree cats are also not prevented the pleasures from showing their cat either. Many cat shows now have classes for what are usually known as ‘Household Cats’. The prizes awarded are for good health, good nature, and charm.
Non-Pedigree Cats 2007-04-17 18:45:27 Classification of Non-Pedigree
Cats
by: Laurie Buckley, admin
Non-pedigree cats as pets have the advantage of having bred naturally, albeit usually by accident. They also more likely than not, have strays at some point within their ancestry. Non-pedigees are likely to be both healthy and hardy, with the weaker strains having been weeded out by the laws of survival. They also tend to be more adaptable and less tempermental than pedigrees, less demanding of attention and less noisy and boisterous than some of the pedigree breeds. Owners of non-pedigree cats are also not prevented the pleasures from showing their cat either. Many cat shows now have classes for what are usually known as ‘Household Cats’. The prizes awarded are for good health, good nature, and charm.
Heat Stroke 2007-04-09 18:40:53 Heat Stroke
by: Laurie Buckley, admin
Summer will soon be on its way so it’s important to know that cats are vulnerable to heat stroke. Longhairs are especially vulnerable when on a long car journey as traveling baskets or carriers in a confined space have less ventilation. Heat stroke symptoms are exceptionally rapid breathing, the appearance of the haws, and a noticeable rise in temperature, and they can appear alarmingly quickly. When going on a long journey always have water, a dish and an old towel handy. If the first signs of distress appear, offer the cat a drink and then wrap her in a wet towel, paying particular attention to the head, but be sure she can breathe easily. If symptoms persist, seek veterinary help. On recovery, there are usually no after-effects. You can minimize the chance of heat stroke by ensuring a flow of freash air over the carrier and keeping it in the shade. At rest stops the car should be opened up or place the carrier outside. Never leave a cat al
Minor Wounds 2007-04-02 18:41:39 Minor Wounds
by: Laurie Buckley, admin
From time to time, most cats will sustain minor wounds. These wounds are usually as a result of fights with dogs or other cats or when attacking prey. The cats ears, face, and front paws are most vulnerable. One should inspect wounds for any dirt or other matter that could be removed with cotton wool and then bathe the wound in a salt solution, 1 tsp to 1 pint of cooled, boiled water. You should not use proprietary disinfectants as these may be harmful to the cat. If the wound fails to heal or developes an abcess seek veterinary attention asap.
Read more:Minor
Rare Breeds 2007-03-26 18:45:05 The Siberian Cat
by: Laurie Buckley, admin
The Siberian Cat or otherwise known as the Siberian Forest Cat, is a member of those group of breeds who are built to withstand harsh conditions, such as the Maine Coon and the Norwegian Forest Cat.
Characteristics- The Siberian Cat is described as a large, massive and strong animal. The tail is long and full, with a plume. The head is rounded and has a strong, round muzzle, with a slight break in the muzzle. The ears are medium sized and round-tipped, and set wide and low on the head. The coat is glossy and has oily guard hairs and a prominent ruff.
The Siberian is said to be an affectionate pet whose muscular physique, however, will require ample outdoor excercise. Grooming should be done every 2-3 days. The kittens are slow to grow their adult coats.
Myth & Folklore 2007-03-19 19:01:46 Adam, Eve & Lilith Superstition
by: Laurie Buckley, admin
The origin of this superstition seems to go all the way back to an ancient Hebrew folk tale. According to this folk tale, Lilith was Adam’s wife before Eve. She was banished from the garden of Eden for refusing to submit to Adam and then haunted the earth as a demon. Sephardic Jews believed that Lilith sucked the blood of the newborn by taking the form of a giant black cat named El Broosha.
Read more:Folklore
Cat Door Training 2007-03-05 16:26:31 Using A Cat Door
by: Laurie Buckley, admin
Cats will need to be trained how to use a cat door if they are unfamiliar with one. You should begin by first showing them from each side how the flap can be made to swing to and fro with a paw, and encouraged to go through the hole while the flap is left open, in return for a treat and praise. This may be repeated but be sure to gradually decrease the opening until finally the cat is doing all the work itself. Once at this stage, training can then be turned into a game by feeding a scrap of paper tied to the end of a string through the cat’s side and then jerking the paper through. Be sure to remember to demonstrate and reinforce the use of the flap in both directions.
Read more:Training
Classification Of The Cat: Body Types, Part II 2007-02-26 17:20:30 The “Foreign” Cat
by: Laurie Buckley, admin
The second basic body type is the “foreign” cat. An extreme example of the so-called foreign type would be the Siamese. The word “foreign” in this context has no geographical connotations; it simply means, in terms of the cat fancy, non-cobby. The Siamese which is an extreme example of the “foreign” type is described as Oriental. The foreign or Oriental body is slender and lithe, with a narrow and wedged shaped head and long legs. Generally, the impression it gives is one of sleekness, sinuos movement, and relatively light weight.
Read more:Body Types
, Classification
Classification Of The Cat: Body Types, Part I 2007-02-19 21:03:13 The Cobby Cat
by: Laurie Buckley, admin
There are two basic body types. The first one is described as a cobby, and is exemplified by the British Shorthair and the Persian. The cobby type features a compact, sturdy body with a deep chest, broad shoulders and hind quarters, short legs and tail and a short, round head. There is however a considerable scope for variations within this broad definition. An example of this being, a round-headed cat may have a short or medium nose, small or medium ears, eyes set closer to or farther from the nose, and so on. Most moggies or alley cats are cobby cats.
Read more:Body Types
, Classification
Rare Breeds 2007-02-12 20:29:51 The Burmilla
by: Laurie Buckley, admin
The Burmilla is a tipped Burmese type that was created in Britain in 1981 as a result of a mating between a chincilla Longhair (Persian) male and a lilac Burmese female.
Origins of the Breed- In 1985 the Burmilla was given its breed name, and a breed club was formed. In 1990, preliminary status was granted in Britain in what is now called the Asian-Burmilla Group. The Burmilla, however is not recognized in the United States although it has been introduced there.
Characteristics- The Burmilla has a semi-foriegn body, which is medium in length and thickness with firm muscle and a straight, level back. It’s tail should be medium in both length and thickness, and should taper to a rounded tip. The head is a short wedge with a distinct nose break, gently rounded on top. The Burmilla’s ears are medium to large and set well apart, round-tipped, and inclined slightly forward. The eyes are full and set well apart also. The coat is short, close-
The Animal Rescue Site 2007-04-26 01:03:40 The AnimalRescue
Site-
How You Can Help In Mere Seconds - Every Day
by: Laurie Buckley, admin
Your click on the purple “Fund Food For Animals” button at the Animal Rescue Site each day helps to provide food and care for a rescued animal living in a shelter or sanctuary. The funding for both the food and care is paid for by site sponsers and is distributed to animals in need at the Fund For Animals’ renowned animal sanctuaries, pet shelters supported by the Petfinder Foundation, North Shore Animal League, and other worthy animal care facilities supported by the GreaterGood.org Foundation. 100% of the sponsor advertising fees goes to the charitable partners of the Animal Rescue Site. Please Visit Today
Cat Care: Hazards 2007-05-03 04:17:02 The Indoor Cat: Hazards
by: Laurie Buckley
When leaving your cat or cat’s home alone indoors for any period of time, take care to remove any potential hazards. Be sure to keep cupboards closed as they may house hazardous substances, particulary in the kitchen, and block off all chimneys. And also so as not to cause a temptation as playthings, any electrical cords should be starightened up and secured. You may also want to free up a couple of decent sized surfaces of any knicknacks to be available as resting places for the cat. Be sure to shake out any bedding material every day.
Anatomy & Senses- Seeing In Color 2007-05-11 16:59:43 Seeing in Color
by: Laurie Buckley, admin
Can cats see in color? The opinion is a divided issue between experts over the extent to which cats can see colors. Although they certainly do not have anything remotely close to the color perception of humans, many owners can testify that they certainly have some means of distinguishing some colors. It is thought that cats can distinguish between red, blue, and white, but green, yellow and white all appear gray. In a cat’s use of its sight, it may be that movement is the dominant factor and color is not all that important. And even though cat’s eyes, or irises rather, come in a wide variety of colors, for example, red, blue, green, and gold, it bears no particular relevance to the cat’s ability to see.
Read more:Seeing
, Senses
Kitten Care 2007-05-18 19:43:40 Kittens: Handle With Care
by: Laurie Buckley, admin
Kittens must be handled with great care as they are very fragile. Because their tiny bones are still delicate and easily damaged, never squeeze them. One should also never pick a kitten up by the scruff of the neck by anyone other than their mothers. The correct method to pick a kitten up who is old enough to leave its mother is to slide one hand underneath its middle and support it with the other hand on the neck or shoulders. You can then transfer the underneath hand so that the kitten is sitting on it. If the kitten struggles to get away, be sure to always lower it to within an easy jump to the floor so she doesn’t injure herself.
Read more:Kitten
Abscesses 2007-05-27 11:45:49 Abscesses & Cats
by: Laurie Buckley, admin
An abcess is formed when a scratch, cut or bite that has broken the skin becomes infected and produces a swelling filled with pus. Minor abcesses may be treated at home. Begin first by applying a pad of cotton wool soaked in hot Epsom salt water and gently apply pressure to bring it to a head. After the abcess has burst be sure to keep the area well cleaned. A trip to the vet will be necessary if the abcess shows no sign of healing due to the fact that antibiotics may need to be prescribed.
Cat Play 2007-06-03 11:47:43 Exercise For The Indoor Cat
by: Laurie Buckley, admin
When owning an indoor only cat, the cat must be provided with opportunities for exercise and encouraged often to play games. Some welcome diversions you may offer to your cat are large, strong cardboard boxes (be sure they never contained any hazardous material), corrurgated paper and tubes of cardboard. You may also wish to purchase an indoor ‘climbing tree’ from your local pet store. To remind a cat of its hunting skills, catnip mice and other similar toys will do nicely. Be sure to also provide some kind of a scratching post as it is essential.
Cat Breeds: Nebelung 2007-06-11 12:04:29 The Nebelung
by: Laurie Buckley, admin
The Nebelung, or otherwise known as the Longhaired Russian Blue or the Nebelung Blue, is an exceptionally handsome cat. They have an alert stance and a businesslike expression. The body of the Nebelung is long, lithe, and slender. The tail is fluffy and carried erect. The head is a modified wedge, with ears set far apart, well pricked, well tufted, and wide at the base. The slightly oval eyes are large and set well apart. The eyes are green at maturity. As kittens, their blue eyes turn yellow before finally turning green as adults. Nebelungs are said to be robust and vigorous. Grooming is moderate by longhair standards.
Feline Terminology- ‘Points’ 2007-06-17 12:25:11 Points
by: Laurie Buckley, admin
A cat’s ‘Points’ are the ears, nose, feet, and tail. For example, in cats which have a pointed pattern coat, their basic coat color is confined to the points. The remainder of the cats body is usually a pale cream, fawn, or white. The white may have a bluish, creamy, or ivory tinge to it.
For show cats the colorpointing must match the basic body color. An example of this would be, a blue point must have a bluish-white body.
Read more:Feline
, Points
Myth & Folklore 2007-06-25 12:27:19 Buddist Beliefs
by: Laurie Buckley, admin
The beliefs of one branch of the Buddist faith practised in southeast Asia thought that when a person who had reached the highest level of spirituality died, their soul then entered into the body of a cat. The soul would then remain there until the cat died, when it entered into Paradise. And despite the contradictory view of the cat in other Buddist lore, this particular belief may be reflected in the appearance of a cat at the feet of some statues of the Budda.
Read more:Folklore
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