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How To Check And Clean Your Cat's Ears

An important part of keeping your cat healthly and happy is checking and cleaning their ears. Because the ears are one of the few parts that cats can not reach themselves they need a little help from a loving owner. Keeping your cats ears clean is extremely important because any unremoved dirt, debris, or wax can clog the ears and cause infections. Regular ear cleaning at home augment's your cats own natural grooming habits.

1. How to check the ears

During petting, casually check your cats ears for discharge, redness, unpleasant smell, swelling, and even lumps. Also observe your cat's behaviour, if he often scratches or paws at his ears (and sometimes even shakes his head often), then he might be feeling discomfort in the ear area.

If you notice that your cats ears are becoming painful or inflamed, visit a veterinarian as soon as possible. The veterinarian has the equipment to look deep into your cat's ear canal and give an accurate diagnosis. The veterinarian will determine if allergies, skin conditions, ear mites, bacteria, yeasts, and fungi are causing ear diseases. Seek early treatment, or your cat's ear condition may become too late to heal.

2. How to clean the ears

Ask your veterinarian for gentle ear cleaning solutions you can use to keep your cats ears clean. These special solutions are effective in removing excess wax, moisture, and debris from your cat's outer ear canal. Be sure to use only solutions that are specifically formulated for cats. Avoid medicated solutions, unless your veterinarian advises you to use it.

Different solutions are administered differently, but most of them require you to follow these steps.

* You typically only need a few drops of the ear solution. Squeeze the bottle and let a few drops fall on into your cat's ear canal.

* Start massaging the base of your cats ear gently. You should hear a 'squelch' while you do this. Repeat the same procedure with the other ear. After both ears have been cleaned, let your cat shake its head, this loosens the waxes.

NOTE: Stop massaging immediately if your cat feels pain, and then take your cat to the veterinarian if you haven't already done so.

* Wipe the solution by wrapping your forefinger with cotton wool, this should clean off wax and debris. Do this gently though and do not poke in too deep, or you might hurt your cats eardrum.

It is recommended not to use cotton buds, which can injure the ear canals' sensitive lining.

Proper Grooming Of Your Pet Dogs And Cats

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Do you have a pet dog or cat in your house?

We treat them as part of the household; we are obliged to give proper care and attention for them to make them look good and healthy, just like what we are doing to other family members.

There are different pet parlors where you can bring your pet dogs and cats to have them groomed properly. Pet parlor owners also give some basic home pet grooming tips and advices for pet owners to follow so that they can personally attend to their pets' grooming needs.

Have your Dog the Best Look

Pet dogs are one of the most adventurous pet animals. They tend to explore— different parts of the house, backyard, and even in the streets. Because of this, they acquire different smell (a stinky one, for instance), their furs are stained, and different parasites sticks to their body and make them itchy.

Proper hygiene practices that are similar to human beings are one of the basics in dog grooming. It is important that you give your dog the best bath. Below are the tips to help you bathe your dog successfully.

• Prepare the bathtub and the bath supplies that you will use in bathing your pet dog. Make the bathroom comfortably warm so that you can encourage your dog to have it bathe. Gather all the pet bath supplies such as dog shampoo, bucket, towel, and hair dryer that will be used before bringing them into the bathroom.

• After you have gathered these bath supplies, bring your dog to the bathroom. Pet them and make them comfortable while you are waiting for the water to reach a soothing temperature ideal for them.

• Bathe them in the tub by using a bucket to splash water on their body. You can also use a hose with a sprayer on the end.

• Use medicated dog shampoos against fleas and ticks. You can also have shampoos of sweet scent and good for your dog's sensitive skin.

• Just a reminder: Never use dish soaps or your own shampoo because it will plague your dog with painful skin irritations. If you are not sure of what dog shampoos and soaps are fit for them, consult your veterinarian first.

• Once you have splashed their body with water, apply now their shampoo. Be sure that you will not let the shampoo reach their eyes. Massage their body carefully. Rinse it with water once again.

• Dry them using a towel first. Wipe their paws gently. Give extra attention to their ears, for any moisture cam lead to wax and bacteria build up that can lead to ear infections.

• Then use a hair dryer. Set the dryer to its medium setting and place it at least six inches from your dog's fur so that it will not burn. Continue drying until their furs are dry, but not completely. Then brush through their hair as you dry it to give it style.

Hydrophobic Cat Grooming Tips

It is a well-known fact that cats are really afraid of water. It is a challenge for you to lure your pet cat to take a bathe. Here are some pointers that you can consider in bathing your pet:

• Make the water warm. Cats have high body temperature than ours, so it will make them comfortable if you will bathe them in warm water. Nevertheless, it must not be too hot for them.

• Have them bathe in a flat surface. You can also place it in a rubber mat so that they will not slip.

• Splash a little amount of water on their body. Use a hose with sprayer if necessary.

• Apply a little amount of cat shampoo in their furs. Be sure it will not get into their eyes or else it will irritate them. Use shampoos specifically intended for them.

• After rinsing, dry them by using a towel and then later on a hair dryer in medium setting. Be sure you will not dry their furs completely. Use a brush to style their furs.

So there you have the basic tips in grooming your pet dogs and cats. Make them the most-groomed pets you ever had.

Flea Control With Cats and Dogs

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Fleas are the most common external parasite of pets in North America. Fleas are small wingless insects that use their specialized mouth to pierce the skin and siphon blood from their host. When a flea bites, it injects a small amount of saliva into the skin to prevent the blood from coagulating. Some animals become sensitized to flea saliva and animals that are allergic can have severe itching and scratching from a single bite. Flea allergy dermatitis is the most common disease among dogs.

Current flea control products are primarily either oral or topical systemic treatments. Most of the products may be used for prevention as well as to treat existing flea problems. One group of products control fleas by interrupting their development by killing or stopping the maturation of flea larvae and eggs. These drugs are called Insect Growth Regulators (IGRs). One common oral product used is lufenuron which is found in the Program® line of products which are administered orally in tablet or liquid form. Methoprene and pyriproxifen are also IGRs that are available as sprays or collars. The FDA shares regulation of these products with the Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Because even the same products from other countries have not been approved by these agencies, it is illegal to purchase or import these products for use in the United States.

Currently the most popular flea control products kill adult fleas (adulticide), are applied topically and work rapidly. Popular topical products utilize fipronil which is the key ingredient in Frontline® Top Spot and imidacloprid which is in Advantage®. The most popular product on the market, Frontline Plus®, utilizes both an adulticide and an IGR. An oral adulticide that is also available is nitenpyram which is in Capstar® and begins to kill fleas in 30 minutes. Frontline Plus also kills ticks which makes it the most popular product where ongoing tick protection is required.

Consult with your veterinarian to determine which flea and tick control products are best for you. The choice of flea control will depend on your climate, environment, your pet's activities, and potential for exposure. However, with consistent use, it is almost always possible to control your flea problem. Using these products throughout the year typically will eliminate the need for regular insecticidal use. The following provide additional summary information on selected popular products.

Program from Novartis®

Program is available as a once a month pill or oral liquid suspension to be given with a full meal. Adult fleas that ingest Program's key ingredient, lufenuron, produce sterile eggs. Program does not kill adult fleas so pets remain susceptible to fleas hatching and maturing pupa already present in the environment. Therefore, some time may pass before the all fleas are killed in an environment. In order to stop the life cycle, every animal in the environment must receive lufenuron. Pets should also be sprayed with an adulticide during the first week or two of starting Program.

Advantage from Bayer®

Advantage is applied topically on both dogs and cats and seems to be very well-tolerated by sensitive cats. Advantage kills fleas within 24 hours and 100% protection can be maintained for cats for 21 days and 90% protection can be maintained for dogs for 28 days. Advantage is susceptible to washing off so dogs that are active outdoors and dogs that swim or must be bathed frequently should be re-treated frequently. Up to weekly re-treatment is allowed. The imidacloprid in Advantage does not effect ticks, but K-9Advantix, with permethrin does. K9 Advantix is only labeled for once a month K9 Advantix is ONLY FOR USE WITH DOGS and MUST NOT BE ADMINISTERED TO CATS.

Frontline Spray, Frontline Plus And Frontline Top Spot from Merial®

Frontline Spray, Frontline Plus, and Frontline Top Spot comprise the market leading Frontline flea control product line. The fipronil in Frontline products is a broad spectrum insecticide available as a spray or topical. Fipronil works by binding chemically to the pet's hair and is absorbed through the follicle by the sebaceous glands. As a spray, fipronil kills fleas at 95% for over 80 days after application on dogs and for 1 month with biweekly bathing. Frontline is labeled for puppies and kittens as young as 8 weeks (10 weeks for Top Spot) and it is not washed off by bathing. Frontline is also affective against ticks. Some cats may show minor adverse reactions with high volume use of the alcohol based spray product which should be applied no more than once a month. Frontline Plus also contains the IGR, S-methoprene which inhibits the growth of immature fleas.

Capstar from Novartis®

Capstar is an oral tablet for dogs and cats that may be administered as young as 4 weeks of age. It offers extremely rapid and complete killing of adult fleas and is safe enough that the tablets may be used whenever fleas are seen on your pet as often as once per day. Capstar may be used in combination with an IGR to kill fleas immediately to compliment the long-term control of an IGR such as Program.

Cats, Dogs And Human Food - How Can Our Food Harm Our Pets?

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We're all guilty of it - giving in to those big begging eyes pleading at us for a scrap from the table during dinner. Fido knows just how to get you to concede, and most of us justify that a little won't hurt, or we don't even think of the potential danger at all. But the truth is that human food can be harmful to your pet, and in some cases, can be fatal. It's important to know how certain foods can be unsafe so that you can avoid them for the sake of your animal.

Here is how a few of some of the most common "human foods" become harmful for pets:

Chocolate and other foods containing caffeine

Caffeine is one of the greatest culprits because it contains an alkaloid called theobromine. Theobromine acts as a cardiac stimulant and a diuretic, which in turn can cause a heart attack or other heart and nervous system problems in animals.

Onions and Garlic

Onions and garlic are potentially harmful due to the fact that both contain thiosulphate, which can damage red blood cells and cause anemia in cats and dogs. Of the two, onions are the most toxic, as consumption of simply one serving by your pet could result in anemia.

Milk

Milk can harm your pet due to the fact that many dogs and cats tend to be lactose intolerant. The consumption of milk and milk products by a lactose intolerant pet creates a breeding ground for bacteria, causing vomiting and diarrhea.

Bones

Bones, although commonly known as a great treat for your dog, are potentially very dangerous for pets. Once eaten, bones can splinter and get stuck in the intestines, causing damage or fatality. In most splinter cases, the bones must be removed surgically.

Other Foods

Other human foods to avoid when feeding your pet are: macadamia nuts, potato peelings and green-looking potatoes, rhubarb leaves, moldy/spoiled foods, alcohol, yeast dough, tomato leaves and stems, broccoli, and raisins or grapes.

Some human foods potentially cause only mild digestive upsets, while others can be fatal. Regardless of the level of danger, the best choice for your pet is to keep him from any potentially harmful foods in order to ensure his health and safety.

During the holiday season, veterinary clinics have noticed a rising in the number of pets that they treat for food-related illnesses. The increase in pet illness is due to the fact that animals are partaking in human foods during mealtime. Although not well known by the public, the consumption of human food to pets is potentially harmful to animals, and in some instances, can be fatal.

The rise in food-related illnesses by pets is a clear indication that the dangers of human food consumption by animals are not understood by the masses.

So, the next time your pet looks up at you with those pleading eyes, show him you care by doing what is truly best for him and feeding him only products meant for pet consumption. In the end, both you and your pet will be glad that you did.

Feline Hyperthyroidism Prognosis

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The pets are really our best friends but the question is, can we be there for them, as well. There is the time when our dog or cat needs us more than anything in the world and their fragile health condition can be a real problem sometimes. The hyperthyroidism is a very usual disease your cat can have, mostly after seven years of life.

Older cats don't have very strong immunity and years can really mark them in the worst way. Before the vet tries to treat this disease, it's important to think about feline hyperthyroidism prognosis and to be realistic about things that might happen.

1. Continuing the normal life - luckily, this disease can be treated today and the feline hyperthyroidism prognosis is generally great. You may choose do you want your cat to take medications forever, is it better allow the surgery or you think the radioactive iodine may be the best option. The thing is, this is very hard decision to make, and it depends not only of your budget, but also of other health issues your cat may have.

2. Recovery with no guarantees - your cat may start taking medications regularly, but negative feline hyperthyroidism prognosis can stay the same. In these cases, some symptoms may disappear, and others even increase, but that is the risk everyone must take. On the other side, there are cases when treatments must be repeated, mostly surgery that was not completely successful because of other health issues.

3. Fatal results - it some cases, the cats are just too sick or too old for any intervention. These interventions can also cause some further problems; for example, this kind of treatment can cause the kidney disease since the blood flow through the kidneys is increased and then, they can stop functioning normally. Older cats may not even handle the surgery or maybe they would not react to medications at all; in some cases, the heart failure may happen because of very strong and demanding treatment.

There is nothing one can do it order to prevent their cat from facing this disease, but the feline hyperthyroidism prognosis can make everyone realize that this can be very serious condition, and treatment is necessary, in one way or another. On the other hand, every surgery has some risks that must be taken, but results may be even better. The crucial thing is that you must organize follow-up blood and diagnostic test schedules for your cat if you want a wonderful time with her in the future.

Ways to Prevent Feline Leukemia

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When a cat has Feline Leukemia, his immune system will be compromised. Apart from this, he also develops anemia and the growth of abnormal tumors. He develops other diseases such as cancer. He will most likely live around 3.5 more years, as a majority of FeLV-infected cats do.

If you are a cat care giver, it is essential for you to know how you can prevent the spread of the disease among cats in your foster cat home. Knowledge and understanding of the disease, as well as other contagious diseases, can certainly be a big factor in lengthening the lives of cats.

Licking is one of the common forms of transmission as FeLV can be acquired through licking. Moreover, placenta-transmission (i.e. mother to baby) is also another common form. Kittens are more vulnerable to the condition because their immune system are still weak until they reach 4 months old, thus resistance to the disease is also not that strong.

The sad truth is that it takes awhile for symptoms to become evident. In fact, it could take months, or even years, before the symptoms show. Unless you get your cat tested, it is unlikely that you will find out if he has FeLV during the first few months that he has it.

How can you keep your cats safe from this rather deadly disease? Below are some of the things that you can do. Actually, these are what you SHOULD do, if you want to keep your cats free from FeLV, and this is particularly important if you have a foster cat home.

* First, keep your infected cats separate from healthy ones.
* Second, have your cats vaccinated. But before you do so, please bear in mind that the vaccines do not work for all cats.
* Third, test your cats, especially those that you own (if you have a foster cat home).
* Fourth, do not get more cats until the preceding fostered cats already have new owners.
* Fifth, make sure feeding plates are separated and always disinfected.
* Sixth, clean and disinfect their litter box at least two times a week.
* Lastly, if an FeLV-infected cat gets a new home, see to it that you inform the new owner of the cat's condition and educate him on how he can take care of the cat.

If you are a foster cat caregiver, you are taking on a huge responsibility of ensuring that the cats are kept healthy. This is particularly important if you also have your own cats, on top of the foster cats. Always see to it that you have your cats tested for FeLV and other transmittable diseases.

You run the risk of spreading diseases if you have many cats in your home but if you have a good understanding on the dos and don'ts, then you should not have a problem keeping every cat safe and healthy. Additionally, you might also want to consider getting cat health insurance plan as the management of feline cancer or other diseases brought about by Feline Leukemia entails costs that may really hurt your budget.

Crate-Training Your Cat

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First of all, forget any of the cat products. If it makes any type of whirling noise or has anything to do with their toe nails - you might just be wasting your money. No cat is going to set still while you are messy with her toe nails with some whirling thing that makes even the tiniest bit of noise. Cats are just not built that way. As for the dog products this household has not tested any since there is no dog living here.

Along with all of these, Royal Canin offers specific diet created for cats of different breeds. These products take into consideration the individual needs of a particular cat breed and cater to them.

You might have said no thanks to some of these products since after adding shipping and delivery they seem less of a bargain and more of a hassle. Just recently, these products have begun being sold in different discount stores as well as at some drugstores and also on the internet. So no longer are these "buy me but I break immediately" products such a hassle to get - in fact some of them have turn rather mainstream. And (surprise, surprise) some of them are really decent products where you do get a ROI or return on your investment.

There are a couple things which a cat looks for in appealing furniture. Stability is a major factor. If a furnishing does not seem strong or sturdy enough to handle rough clawing it will be unappealing.

Also available is nutritious food for diabetic cats. Royal Canin Veterinary Diet for Diabetic cats regulates the glucose supply and provides proper nutrition for it.

If it is at all possible, you should start crate training you cat when he is still a kitten. If he learns early-on that the crate is not something to be hated or feared, trips to the vet will be that much easier in his later years. Older cats can still be trained with the following method, but will take more time and patience from the owner!

Cuts Through Plastic Packaging

The next step is to simply make the crate or cage as comfortable as possible for the cat and make it accessible at all times. You want to make the crate a "safe zone" for your cat. Keep it close to his litter box and food - you can even place either or both within the crate if there is room. Whenever you put him in the crate or see him in it, give him a treat. You can also place treats in the crate when it is unoccupied for your cat to find later - you want the cat to see the crate as a good place and associate it with good things.

It is certain that everyone at one time or another have been watching TV late at night and have seen those late night infomercials. Many of these products, you can just tell by looking that the first time you use them they are going to break. But after some research, some of these "as see on TV" products might be worth taking a second look at.

Bed: These are not vital as most cats and kittens are happy to sleep anywhere. If you do want a bed for your cat, there are many designs to choose from, but don't expect your cat to sleep in it all the time.

It will take time and patience (especially with older cats), but a crate can be made into a "safe haven" for the cat whenever he feels uncomfortable or threatened - or simply wants to be left alone. If your cat runs and hides when you have company over, you can make the crate into the place he goes willingly with just a little training.

When using commercial food whether wet or dry always use a quality brand, as a cheap cat food often contains too much cereal and not enough protein.

Treating Cats with Fur Balls

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One of the wonderful things we all love about cats is their soft, delicate fur. When they ingest dead, loose hairs in the process of grooming, what usually happens is that they pass through the digestive system without any problems. However, if too much hair builds up in the stomach, it causes irritation of the stomach lining, and this when a furball will be produced.

Fur balls can be a recurrent problem for cats, particularly those from long-haired breeds. It is an unpleasant experience for cats, and symptoms generally include vomiting, unproductive retching, constipation and a loss of appetite. This article looks at how cats suffering from fur balls can be treated, and what can be done to prevent them becoming a problem.

Sometimes cats who suffer from furballs may eat grass and garden plants to try and medicate themselves. Grass causes them to vomit, which may also bring up the fur ball as well. Thus, if you see your cat eating grass, this may be an early indication that they are suffering from fur balls.

One thing owners can do to help prevent fur balls is regular combing of their cat's hair. This will get rid of much of the dead hair before it can be ingested. Fine-toothed combs are best for short haired cats, while wide-toothed combs tend to be more suitable for long haired cats. It's not advisable to use brushes, because they are much less effective at getting all the loose hair out.

One of the traditional remedies for furballs is petroleum jelly. A small amount is applied to a cat's paw, so the cat can lick it up. The molecules of petroleum jelly are too large to be absorbed, so they retain their form and act as a lubricant to help the ingested hair through the cat's digestive system and out in the normal way.

There are varieties of petroleum jelly in different flavours (such as tuna) which are designed especially for cats. These will make the jelly more palatable to cats, so are a good option if your cat shows reluctance towards this treatment.

Another common treatment for the condition is natural herb tablets. These tablets are a mixture of herbs including valerian root, dandelion root, and senna leaf, powdered and pressed into tablet form. It works as a gentle laxative, so it is generally given for the relief of constipation or to help treat cats suffering from furballing.

It is recommended that cats who are experiencing noticeable discomfort because of furballs are given one of these tablets daily. In addition, it is also a good idea to give cats who are prone to fur balls one tablet a day during their moulting period. The one caveat to bear in mind when giving herbal treatments such as these is that they are not suitable for pregnant or lactating females.

Once cats get rid of their furballs, they normally recover quickly, and are soon back to normal. However, it is important to be aware that your cat may be suffering from dehydration because of the vomiting, and may need a special diet for a few days.

Feline Body Language - Identifying Your Cat's Behaviour

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Have you ever pondered what your feline is stating? I'm certain most pet managers have every once in a while. When you figure out how to read non-verbal communication you can! Give careful consideration to what her tail, ears, and hide are doing and you can read their feelings.

Your felines' tail is the most vital part to watch to figure out your felines emotions. You can figure out whether your feline is cheerful or not by examining her tail.

Tail straight up: When your feline is strolling to you and her tail is straight up it is an indication of kind disposition, this is her method for welcome you in a well disposed way.

Tail straight up and shuddering: When your feline shows this she is exceptionally upbeat to see you, however in the event that your feline is a male be wary he may be getting primed to stamp his region when you get excessively close you may mourn it.

Tail straight up yet with a snare: This is normally seen when she is seeing a new individual or when approached by an alternate feline. When you see this she is readied to be agreeable yet readied to safeguard herself also.

Tail straight up and puffed: Look out on the grounds that your feline is pestered, furious, or startled. Better provide for some opportunity to cool off before approaching her.

Tail straight up and at a slight plot: She is unsure, readied to be agreeable additionally primed to flee or if important to battle.

Tail straight out and down: This feline is primed to battle, it could be she is prepared to play yet normally you can tell which one quite rapidly. So be extremely mindful when you see this conduct.

Tail goes up and afterward hangs down: Your feline is getting primed if important to shield herself.

Tail is tucked in: Your feline is frightened, assuming that she isn't cornered she will presumably fled, if cornered she will likely battle.

Tail whipping: Large abate swings typically mean she is energized however more diminutive swings and quickly moving shows outrage.

Your feline's ears are additionally a method for telling your feline's enthusiastic state. while not as evident as the tail when perusing both the tail and ears together you can show signs of improvement picture of how your feline feels.

Assuming that your feline's ears are back this typically implies animosity, assuming that they are both up and back this normally implies a test is constantly given.

The point when your feline's ears are out she is either apprehensive or exceptionally troubled, if the ears retreat significantly more she is undermined and may respond with animosity.

There are different signs your feline may provide for you, for example, murmuring, working, and rubbing with her head of face which we all know is an indication of warmth, however rubbing the head or face is likewise her method for fortifying her bond with you by exchanging some of her fragrance to you. Rubbing around your legs is likewise considered fondness which obviously it is however again she is holding with you by getting her aroma on you.

Pet Grooming Essentials to Keep Your Pets Health at Best

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Buying grooming products for your pet is not only for styling your pet but also they are extremely necessary to keep it in a healthy condition; you can shop for these products very easily on online pet stores.

Any dog or pet living in your house must seek a better treatment as it is counted as one of the members of your family. If a pet dog or cat not is not treated properly then they becomes uncomfortable and shabby and to stop them from being like that you must take good care of them by using tear stain removers and salmon oil for dogs so that you can keep their hair coat clean and healthy. These kinds of pet grooming products are very much needed for any pet so that they can be free of fleas, nits and lice. While you groom you dog you must have noticed that they often form knots on their hair coat which is formed through dirt and lack of combing of their hair that eventually come out as knots. But using the right grooming products such as shampoos and soaps are able to let your pet get free from these kinds of problems.

These products will not keep your pets hygienic but also leave them with great smelling all around which will also give a good feeling in the entire house.

Style and Health

Applying tear stain removers not only keep the eye area clean but also provide a less smelly feature to your pet. If you really want to see your pet dog in healthy condition then you have to make sure that you keep it clean in all the ways. Tight from cleaning the ears, teeth,hair coat, paws and claws and other parts of the body too. Also do not forget to clip its nails to as grown nails can hurt the do in any manner. With regular brushing the dog can easily get rid of the fleas and knots as well as the knots which can be a mess to your dog handling them. There are lots of dog parlors are present these days which also provide you all kinds of grooming services to your pet, but it is also true that these services are quite pricey and all of the dog owners cannot afford these services.

Cheap and Best Option

You can treat your dog with some of the best options like using the salmon oil for dogs which will keep your dog's hair coat healthy and shiny. You can buy some of the high quality products in a cheaper price from the online pet shops and get your pet treated in a very good way and under your care which is not only keep your pet healthier but also create a love bond between you and your pet.

Human Foods Could Pose Serious Health Risks to Your Cat

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Though cats may not be considered as man's best friend lots of people are actually huge fans of cats. As it turns out these purring animals do not only attract rich pet lovers but also those who are comfortable with the stray ones.

With this, the rise of cat food continuously grows as well. To date, there are more or less 111 companies in the US that manufactures cat food.

Obviously, not all can afford to feed their cats a healthy and balanced diet like so many articles suggest.

Most pet owners resolve to leftovers from their refrigerators and tables. However, did you know that no matter how harmless these human foods are, some are actually deadly for cats?

There are a number of food lists that are dangerous to cats.

Alcohol - A tablespoon of this liquid can put a cat in a coma and little over than this can make its heart stop.

Tuna - Some may think that since this is a fish it is safe for cats. According to studies, feeding this type of fish to cats every day is not healthy. The reasons behind this are: first, it does not contain all the nutrients and vitamins that a cat needs. Second, since Tuna has mercury, eating too much of this can eventually make them sick.

Chocolates, Coffee, Tea, and Energy drinks - These yummy treats are definitely not for cats. That's why there are so many cat treats on the market today. Having these in their digestive system will cause restlessness, rapid breathing, palpitations, heart arrhythmia, muscle tremors, and seizures. This is because these types of chow have caffeine and Theobromine.

Onions, Garlic and Chives - No matter how the condition of these condiments is (fresh, powder, stale), a little amount of these may bring harm to cats. If eaten, the cat's red blood cells may break and can eventually lead to Anemia.

Grapes and raisins - A high amount of these types of food may result in frequent vomiting and restlessness. Aside from this, it can also has the potential to affect a cats kidneys.

Xylitol - This type of sweetener is harmful to cats. Xylitol may be present in candies, gums and in other preserved desserts. When this enters their system a cat's insulin may increase and cause their blood sugar to crash. This sweetener may also lead to liver troubles.

Dairy products - Adult cats cannot tolerate milk in their system. They can easily develop lactose intolerance. If a cat eats food with milk this may cause them to have Diarrhea and an upset stomach.

Facts On Cat Health

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Breed of cat, environment and genetics are the three most significant factors to influence the aging process and life expectancy of your beloved feline. While a cat's life expectancy will change depending upon the contribution made by each one of these variables, a well-cared for house cat ought to live to at least the age of fifteen. It's not unheard of, however, for a cat to live perhaps even longer and there are records of pet cats living to the distinguished, gray-haired age of thirty!

Just like humans, cats live the longest on a high-quality nutritious eating plan. As cats grow older, their nutritional needs change and it's really important to feed them an appropriately balanced diet. Regardless of the recent scare regarding contaminated cat food made with ingredients imported from China, nearly all domestic cat food brands are now considered safe. These are readily available in a variety of formulations corresponding to specific phases in a cat's life and are generally well liked by cats. If you're concerned about food safety, you can always make you own cat food at home. No matter if you pick a national brand or make your own food, it's important not to overfeed your pet so it can maintain a healthy and balanced body weight.

Human beings and cats have other things in common, as well. Physical exercise is part of a healthy life style for both cats and people. One way to keep your cat healthy and fit is to allow it some time outside each and every day. Indoors, give your cat a scratching post and a selection of playthings. Setting aside some time to have fun with your pet cat every day is an excellent way to improve your own quality of life and provide your cat the exercise it needs to stay healthy.

Another method to help a cat live longer originally came as a unexpected surprise to me. Just before signing off, Bob Barker, the ex - host of the Price is Right, the well known television game show, used to remind his viewers to spay or neuter their cats. Although Barker's motivation was most likely to help reduce the number of wayward cats and dogs wandering the streets of L.A., it turns out that spaying or neutering your cat may actually boost its life span. Although the data on this don't lie, it's not precisely obvious why the concept works. Some believe a fixed cat will remain much closer to home, minimizing its vulnerability to disease and other hazards.

Don't forget, a good relationship with a qualified veterinarian is a must should your cat ever is in need of the care of a veterinarian. Periodic trips to the veterinarian, even if there's no urgent reason, can extend the life of your cat by many happy years. As a result, make the effort to locate a veterinarian close to you. Friends or family members can sometimes make a suggestion, but if you've recently moved or don't know another cat owner you can turn to, check your on-line yellow pages for a directory of certified vets where you live.

Feline Bladder Stone Treatment

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Feline bladder stone treatment simply cannot begin until your vet determines what type of stone is causing the problem and to the extent possible, the size and location of the stones. Far too often pet owners believed that one single factor causes these problems and that is simply not true. There can be many causes for these types of problems, and each one can lead to a different type of bladder stone. The actual feline bladder stone treatment option that will work best will depend on the type of material that has formed.

In some cases the best option for feline bladder stone treatment is through medication. In addition, many of these materials can be dissolved through the application of a prescription diet such as Hill's Prescription Diet s/d. Generally, the vet will allow up to six weeks for the material to dissolve and pass through the urinary tract. This is the best outcome, but there are times when this option will not work.

There are some types of feline bladder stones that simply will not dissolve. The use of medication and special diets will have no effect at all on them, and they will remain inside your cat. As time goes on, they will actually increase in size as more crystals form onto them. These can lead to very serious, even life-threatening, health problems. The major concern is that the material will get to a size where it is too large to pass through the urinary tract. This increased size may also lead to complete blockage of the urinary tract, meaning the animal will no longer be able to urinate. When this happens, death often results in about three days.

The feline bladder stone treatment for those cases where the material will not dissolve is surgery. The material must be removed or the prognosis becomes very dim indeed.

It is important to remember that unless appropriate action is taken, the bladder stones may reappear. If the diet was the cause of the problem in the first place, and the diet remains the same after the appropriate feline bladder stone treatment has taken place, the problem will simply come back in time. Your vet should be able to tell you what he or she believes was the cause of the build up, and you should heed their advice on the changes needed to prevent further problems.

The stones probably formed because your cat wasn't drinking enough. In the wild cat's tend to get their moisture through food. Domestic cats are often fed dry food which has 80% less moisture than canned. A simple switch to canned, and providing your cat fresh water in places where your cat likes to be in your home can help.

A natural dietary supplement can also help. These types of products have a long history of supporting the urinary tract and helping to correct the PH of the urine. The PH is what determines the ability of the urine to fight urinary tract infection which causes inflammation. When the urinary tract is inflamed, openings become smaller, which traps crystals, the building block of cat bladder stones.

In many cases, the feline bladder stone treatment course will include follow ups with the vet. It is important to make sure that you keep these appointments as they can often prevent future problems.

Stop Your Cat From Spraying

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When you spot your cat stand by a door or any other object at home, lifts its tail then urinates then you know that it is spraying on the door or object. Perhaps if you are a neophyte in the cat world, you do not know what spraying means. When a cat is new to a place, it is bound to make that place its territory by spraying. It is not a cat's dilemma as not knowing its own litter box; rather, it sprays for marking a definite location. It is natural for them to spray and usually it is ordinarily done by cats outdoors. Yet, there are cat owners who complain about their cats spraying indoors. It could be troublesome for a home owner if a cat sprays inside the house. Do not worry too much as for every difficulty, there is a solution.

The reason why cats spray can either be one of the following: for marking a location, for calling a mate or for relieving stress.

A cat, just like other territorial type of animals, wants to mark its territory. In order to do this, it sprays a bit of urine on its territory. The smell of the cat's urine will alert other cats and animals to get off its property. It is natural for cats to spray on things, so extend a little understanding towards your cat.

Pheromones are a substance that animals utilize to communicate. This substance is released with the urine sprayed by cats in heat. This hormone is similar to fingerprints because animals use this to identify the kind of creature that sprayed in the location. Often, this hormone is released when cats are in heat. The pheromones tell the other cats that it is searching for a mate. Other cats in heat are attracted towards the scent of the urine due to of the pheromones. This serves as an open invitation to get engaged in procreation. Later, you will get kittens in the house.

Getting rid of stress is another reason why cats spray. It could be stressful for a cat to find another of its kind in its territory. When it catches a glimpse of another animal, it also sprays. The spraying of urine allows the cat to release some of the built-up stress generated by seeing another creature in its territory.

The scent of cat's urine can be odious. The problem is sometimes the cat sprays inside the house. The urine can stain furniture and leave foul odor. When your cat sprays, do something at once like shooing it away.

The most effective way to eradicate this spraying behavior is by neutering or spaying the cat. This applies to both male and female cats. The spraying activity will immediately stop after being neutered. Since a male cat will no longer mate after being neutered, it will get rid of its spraying. It is important to consider whether you do not want to breed your cat or otherwise because spaying or neutering is irreversible. Do not spay or neuter if you still wish to have kittens. Consider another option. It is best to ask for your vet's opinion regarding spraying if you do not want to sterilize your cat.

Various Breeds of Cats and Their Food

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When you buy a cat food for your cat you should know the type of cat food that will be perfect for your cat as they tend to be quite finicky regarding their tastes.

Cat breeds & cat food complement each other. Cats are quite popular pets and there is an estimated 57 million pet cats in the US only and this includes the various cat breeds in the world. Each of the cat breeds has a different characteristic & personality. Persian cats are one of the most popular breeds and one of the oldest too. Also known as longhair or Persian longhair in Britain, they actually arrived in Britain from Iran and can be found all over the world today.

Show-quality cat breeds have started to become quite popular and the Persian cat is one of the best show quality cat breed. They have long thick coats, wide head with ears that are set quite far apart, short legs, large eyes, and an a fore-shortened muzzle. If you have a Persian cat then you need to clean her eyes on a daily basis as it can often become gooey. Persian cats can be quite fussy about their food and hence you need to provide her with top quality cat food. The cat food should contain healthy amount of proteins, vitamins and minerals.

You've probably been there before - standing in front of shelves loaded with dozens of cat food packages. Dry or canned? Senior, Growth or maintenance? Premium or maybe super-premium? And if you manage to get past all of these mind boggling questions - what about selecting a flavour for your gourmet of a cat?

Most vets will advise you to provide her with meat based cat food. Cats love fish, meat and milk and hence, you should provide your lovely Persian cat with enough of the above so that it helps her to grow stronger. There are several brands of cat food that offer healthy and nutritious food. If you are not aware of the type of cat foods that you need to provide your cat then consult a vet for guidance.

Cat food should primarily consist of the following ingredients: Chicken, rice, chicken meal, corn gluten meal, corn, chicken fat (naturally preserved and mixed with rosemary extract, tocopherols, and citric acid), pea fiber, dried egg powder, natural chicken flavor, rice hulls, salmon oil, beet pulp, ground psyllium, sodium silico aluminate, soya oil, potassium chloride, L-lysine, fructo-oligosaccharides, DL-methionine, choline chloride, calcium carbonate, borage oil, sodium tripolyphosphate, brewers yeast extract (Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation solubles), taurine, inositol, Vitamins (dl-alpha tocopherol-source for vitamin E), niacin, d-calcium pantothenate, L-ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate (vitamin C), biotin, riboflavin (vitamin B2), pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin B6), thiamine mononit vitamin A acetate, vitamin B12 supplement, folic acid, vitamin D3 supplement, Trace Minerals like zinc oxide, zinc proteinate, ferrous sulfate, copper proteinate, manganese proteinate, copper sulfate, sodium selenite, manganous oxide, calcium iodate, marigold extract and potassium citrate.

One of the important things that you need to keep in mind is the quantity of certain cat food items like the following:
·Crude Protein should be =/>30.0%
·Crude Fat should be =/> 22.0%
·Crude Fiber should be =/< 7.6%
·Moisture should be =/< 9.0%
·Magnesium should be =/< 0.09%
·Taurine should be =/> 0.28%
·Vitamin E should be =/> 600 mg/kg
·Vitamin C should be =/> 300 mg/kg
·Omega 6 should be =/> 5.35%
·Omega 3 should be =/> 0.85%

Cat Feeder and Your Cat

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To have a cat is fun and a source of joy. However if you have a lazy cat, it is a real pain and if the cat happens to become fat or obese, you can imagine the trouble you are into. While for a Dog a walk in the morning could be a trip to heaven, for my cat Flossy, it is a real torture and she, makes no bones about it to make me understand. It required a superhuman effort on my part to make her stand from her seat of comfort. It requires a cup of milk and a lot of cajoling to make her take a short walk around the corner. If she is chased by a dog, I had to pick her up and she would stare at me with fiery eyes to get the message through "Why do you make me endure this unwanted torture. Cats are lazy creatures and often spend their time eating and sleeping. It creates a lot of problems, especially when they get older. Therefore to stop them from overeating, the best resort is to get a Cat feeder.

It is a device which is filled with food in the upper container and dispenses a measured amount of food in the lower bowl at certain intervals of time. There are different types of Cat feeder available in the market. While certain Cat feeder will require you to set the feeder, other is interactive and would require the cat to press certain lever so that the food is released.

It would be interesting to note that cat is carnivorous animals like their illustrious cousins Tigers, Lion and Panther. They have in their genes the hunting instincts and would like to stalk their prey, play with it and finally kill for their food. However we do not want our pets to run all over the house stalking a mice or lizards. By providing the cat with food in plenty effortlessly, we are actually making the cat lazy and different from its natural instincts. Therefore they become lethargic and fat.

It must be understood that carnivorous animals only hunt and eat when they are hungry. They are wee bit different than humans and do not have lunch, breakfast or dinner. Therefore do not over feed the cat. They just don't need it. The cat feeder is an excellent means to regulate the quantity of food which the cat is having. It will give only that much food which is essential for the cat's subsistence and you will have a fit and agile pet instead of a fat and obese cat which spends most of the time sleeping on the Sofa.

ForeverPetSupply (http://www.foreverpetsupply.com/) is online retailer of products for the lifetime needs of pets including Cat Feeder, dogs, cats, small animals and horses. We specialize in the following products for pets: Cat Scratcher, Cat Feeder, Cat litter box, Flea and Tick Shampoo, Flea Collar, Dog Feeder, Dog crates, Pet Meds, Equine Supplies, Bark collar.

The Greatest Place For Your Pets

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Affordable pet boarding doesn't seem like it would be a very hard thing to find--as simply one of the many items on your to-do list before you head off for a much needed vacation, finding affordable pet boarding for your dogs and cats may understandably fall to a last minute arrangement. After all, finding a pet resort is not more important than finding the resort you want to stay at for your vacation!

Unfortunately, as most pet owners who have searched out affordable pet housing facilities in the past know, finding a pet boarding facility is not as easy as you'd think. Many facilities are outrageously priced, banking on those last minute travelers who have no choice but to pay for their procrastination, and not always even a place you'd like your pet to stay. While people are always looking for pet housing, finding a "cheap place" to stick your pet while you go on vacation often has horror story connotations. Pet resort nightmares are limitless, and myths percolate rampantly about the 'bad' places.

Pet resort horror stories include boarding a dog or cat at a location that turns out to have unsanitary conditions; a pet resort with insecure grounds (which is more than problematic for escape-prone pets); a pet resort unregulated vaccinations-- where a pet could contract fleas, kennel cough, or worse; a pet resort that keep pets caged all day; a pet resort that doesn't monitor playtime and allow for big, dangerous dogs to play with-- and potentially injure-- little dogs; and even pet resorts where females in heat are allowed to play with in-neutered male dogs, to name a few. Finding an affordable pet boarding facility that is still a quality operation is the ideal find for every pet owner, and we know that the "perfect place" is hard to find.

Every responsible pet owner wants to do everything they can to prevent unexpected pregnancies, escapes, and illnesses for their pets while they are away on vacation, so choosing a trustworthy, affordable pet boarding facility is paramount. Unfortunately, as previously mentioned, not all companies are very affordable and the good ones fill up fast. We are a pet boarding facility where boarding a dog or cat won't cost you an arm and a leg, but it is an affordable pet boarding facility where you can rest assured that your pet will be able to play, sleep, and eat in safety and enjoyment. Our pet boarding facility closely monitors the vaccination records of every pet allowed onto our premises, and female dogs in heat are carefully segregated in girls-only play groups.

At our affordable pet boarding facility, we have never had an unplanned pregnancy and escapes are extremely rare. Precautions at our pet resort for breakouts are extreme. Our affordable pet housing facility has a six foot chain link fence that is cemented into the ground and has a curved top that goes around the entire facility, making jumping over or digging out nearly impossible. Our pet resort includes a doggy swimming pool, indoor and outdoor play areas, spacious pet condos for sleeping, and the most sanitary facility in the Amarillo, Texas area.

In addition to our excellent boarding programs and clean, affordable pet boarding facilities, a couple of the most attractive qualities about our camp are that we have a large facility that can usually accommodate last minuteboarders, and we have a very affordable pet boarding program. Depending on the size of your animal, our nightly prices range from 18 to 30 dollars per night--more than 50% less than some of our competitors. For more information on affordable pet housing vacation rates, policies, and cat and dog programs available through us, please visit our website.

Prepare a Personal First Aid Kit for Pets

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If you are like most pet owners, your pets are valued members of your family. It is a documented fact that many have risked life and limb to save their precious pets during a disaster. Statistically, however, it is more often small cuts and scrapes that occur that require immediate attention, rather than major disasters such as an earthquake or flood. For this reason, every pet owner should have easy access to a first aid kit specifically created for pets.

What would you need immediately if your puppy fell of the bed and started whimpering? You'd need a first aid kit for pets. Supposing your cat had an altercation with the neighbor's dog and the vet was twenty minutes away? You'd need a first aid kit for pets.

A well-stocked first aid kit for pets is not a substitute for veterinary care, but it could save your pet's life, or at least make him more comfortable, until you can get your pet to a veterinarian. The likelihood that your animals will survive an emergency depends largely on emergency planning done today. Therefore, a first aid kit for pets is a necessity.

What should a first aid kit for pets include? To some degree, that will depend upon the type of pet. However, the basics include the following:
2 - Paw Tip Bandage (Knuckle)
2 - Fingertip Bandage
1 - Tape Roll
1 - Trauma Pad (5 x9)
4 -Gauze Pad 4" x 4"
4 -Gauze Pad 2" x2"
1 -Gauze Roll 2"
2 -Examination Gloves
1 -Instant Cold Pack
1 - Tweezer
2- Antibiotic Ointment
10- Alcohol Pads
10 - Antiseptic Towelettes
1 - Bag
1 - Pet First Aid Guide
4 - Leg Splints/Tongue Depressors
10 - Cotton Tip Applicators
1 -Elastic Bandages 2" ("Ace" Type)
2 - Splinter Removers (Lancets)
3 -Sting Relief Pads

Assemble an emergency supply pack which includes the first aid kit for pets, pet food, water, medications, medical records, leashes, a well-fitting muzzle, ID tags and other appropriate supplies. Put this kit in a central location in your home. Remember to take this pack with you when going on an outing, or else prepare a second pack for the car.

The AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) offers information regarding managing urgent care situations such as car accidents, wounds, electrical shock, and eye, foot and ear injuries. Their website ishttp://www.avma.org/first aid. Additionally, the Red Cross offers a Pet First Aid booklet with suggestions on creating a first aid kit for pets.

What should you do to ensure your pet's survival and to avoid those feelings of panic when an accident or illness occurs? Plan, purchase, prepare and practice. Obtain a first aid kit for pets, and then review the materials it contains. It isn't sufficient to simply have the supplies; you must know how they are used. Learn the necessary skills so your actions become instinctive…even when you are under stress

Planning ahead is the key to keeping your pets safe when disaster strikes.

Cats Vs Dogs: Which Make the Better Pets?

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The Cats Vs Dogs controversy has gone on for thousands of years, ever since they were domesticated. Which makes the best pet? The answer depends largely on the owner's personality and requirements for animal companionship. We have owned both and have made a few observations based on our experiences.

Dogs are intensely loyal to the people who feed them. They can be hostile to perceived "invaders," and a goodly number of them have shown a willingness to put their own lives on the line to protect their owners. The downside to this behavior is that they demand lots of attention. An owner can sit and scratch a dog's ears for hours and still receive a hurt look from the animal when it's time to do something else. Cats, although also attention seekers, seem much more aloof and independent. Just don't expect them to be there for you if a burglar breaks in. An intelligent, well trained dog makes a great hiking companion. Cats couldn't care less. This is why the owner's preferences are an important part of the Cats Vs Dogs debate.

Cats are complete carnivores, and can digest only meat. (You may have seen a cat eating green grass, but that was probably because its stomach was already upset by something else.) Dogs, like people, are omnivores able to metabolize a variety of foods. The difference is in the body chemistry of the two species. The bottom line when considering Cats Vs Dogs is this: although some dogs may develop a taste for some cat foods, the two types of food are not interchangeable.

The biggest factor in choosing between Cats Vs Dogs may be the environment of the prospective owner. Do not try to keep a large dog in a small apartment, even if the landlord allows it. You will all be miserable as a result. Cat urine smells worse than dog urine, is more likely to occur indoors and must be dealt with. Dogs are not adept at hunting mice, so rodent control is generally left up to cats, who will also catch lizards, birds and young rabbits. In a rural setting, however, be aware that cats are susceptible to being picked off by owls (yes, owls) and other predators.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Cats

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There's another great debate about the feline as a pet besides the declawing issue covered in another article. This great debate concerns allowing the feline to roam outdoors vs. living indoors. As usual, there are two sides to this debate. Should you allow your cat to roam outdoors? Let's find out.

The Outdoor Feline

Cats are essentially wild creatures, and they have always loved the outdoors. What feline owner hasn't watched their cat loll in a patch of sunshine on a winter day, or roll contentedly in the dirt in their own backyard? Cats do love the sunshine, the outdoors, and the fresh air. However, outdoor cats are susceptible to more diseases, more injuries, and more health problems. Outdoor cats may tussle with other cats, catch parasites or other diseases, or be hit by a car or caught by other predators. They can also be poisoned by pesticides, or by sadistic neighbors. They can cause problems with neighbors by using their yards as a cat box. Outdoor cats simply aren't as safe as indoor cats, period.

Indoor Cats

Indoor cats live longer, healthier lives - period. Studies prove it and common sense dictates it. Indoor cats have many advantages outdoor cats can't hope to have. Outdoor cats live on an average of 3 to 5 years, while indoor cats live an average of 12 years or more. My last indoor cats lived to be 19 and nearly 21. Indoor cats enjoy in safety and comfort. They are safe from diseases that feral cats may carry and outdoor cats pick up. They are safe from cat fights, cars, and predators. And, indoor cats won't harm other wildlife, such as birds and small animals.

Alternatives

There are many alternatives to the outdoor lifestyle. When kittens first come home, they should be kept indoors. If your cats miss their outdoor excursions, you might try to train them to wear a harness and walk on a leash. They will still be able to enjoy the outdoors, but much more safely. Another alternative is to create a safe outdoor area or run where the cats can go outside but cannot escape the area. There are many outdoor runs available now that connect to a cat door and allow the cat access to a run on a patio or in a backyard. You can also allow the cat outdoors on a patio or deck when you are outdoors, and only for a short time. Or, you can use a carrier to take your kitty for walks in the sunshine.

Keeping kitty indoors will keep kitty healthy, happy, and free of infectious diseases she might catch outside. Each pet owner is responsible for their own pet's health and well being. Keeping kitty inside is the choice that makes sense.