Cats and Birds information on net.

2008-03-17T04:59:00.000-07:00

As a child I remember tales of my mother's family cats, with Uncle Tom being kept in the dark that it was his sister's cat that had enjoyed his favourite bird. Cats and birds shared the house; cat in house = bird in cage; bird free in house = cat outside screen door; I don't remember any of our cats dining on our birds though mother lost several budgies by going outside forgetting they were on her shoulder.

A long preamble perhaps but when animals are an integral part of your life one tends to treat them as family. So that, as one becomes more conscious of how one lives, by respecting the planet, eating healthily, not wasting food surely the same thing applies to how we feed our pets. I guess the principles of a healthy diet for a cat would be an organic, holistic one. Cats are carnivores - observe the number of mice that one has to dispose of, usually just the liver and intestines to be fair - our cats are thorough, unless they play with them first of course, in which case its mouse eradication from underneath grandfather clocks, heavy chests of drawers and the kitchen sink. So if one has a plentiful supply of mice a lot of problems are solved - pest extermination naturally, fresh raw meat, especially bone. However most cats have managed to domesticate humans and prefer a more varied diet. Trawling through many web sites night after night the main principles of a Healthy, Organic diet for your cat is:

Feed the diet that nature intended for your carnivore - as close as possible to the form and nutritional composition that your cat would eat in a natural setting. The diet that I choose to feed is very basic. Some of the elaborate and complicated recipes found on the internet are enough to cause anyone to abandon the idea of making their own cat food and that is a shame. It does not have to be that complicated and involved. The diet of a wild cat is pretty basic - they eat whole carcass prey, often leaving the stomach and intestines behind. In the wild, your cat would be eating a high protein, high-moisture content, meat-based diet, with a moderate level of fat and with only approximately 3-5 percent of her diet consisting of carbohydrates.

Cats are designed to obtain most of their water with their diet since their normal prey contains approximately 75 percent water.

Look for a muscle meat (preferably, not an organ meat like liver) as the first ingredient. A muscle meat is "chicken," or "turkey," etc. Not "chicken by-products" or "chicken by-product meal," or "chicken broth" or "liver". "Chicken meal" is technically a muscle meat but the term "meal" denotes that it has been rendered (cooked for a long time at very high temperatures) and is lower quality than meat that has not been as heavily processed. A "meal" product is more commonly found in dry foods. By-products can include feet, intestines, feathers, egg shells, etc. and are much less nutritious than meat.

Meat from known organic sources
Table scraps only as occasional treats
Variety

Definite No-Nos:

- Alcoholic beverages
- Chocolate
- Coffee
- Grapes & raisins
- Mouldy or spoiled food
- Onions, garlic & chives
- Poultry bones
- Salt & salty foods
- Tomato leaves, stems & unripe fruit
- Yeast dough

Don't forget, though, that cats have different nutritional needs to humans so it's the principles ones follows not the actual diet.

Resources.

Written by Frank & Anne Brown

We have owned, lived with, loved and bred cats since we were both kids. The recent revelations of the horrors of the 2007 - 2008 pet food recall led us to totally re-evaluate how we cared for our pets. We now source and prepare all our own cat food. The change in both cats has been dramatic, their health, energy and sheer vitality have changed so much.

Please visit us and see how YOUR pet's health can improve with just a little effort on your part.

http://www.catfoodrecipesonline.com

Written by Frank & Anne Brown.

Frank and Anne have lived with, loved and bred cats since they were both kids. Recent revelations of the horrors of the 2007 - 2008 pet food recall led Frank and Anne to totally re-evaluate how they cared for their pets. They now source and prepare all their own cat food. The change in both their cats have been dramatic, their health, energy and sheer vitality changed so much.

Check out this site and fin

GPS Collars Can Help You Track YOur Pet and Keep Him Out Of Danger

2008-03-15T02:34:00.000-07:00

GPS collars can be used to track your pet should he or she ever get away. This tracking can be exact to about one meter or three feet. The term GPS means Global Positioning System. These days, GPS chips are so small that they can be hidden in any pet collar, or even implanted underneath your pet's skin

Once activated GPS dog collars can send real-time data directly to a portable receiving station in your house or car. In fact, new technology has made it possible for GPS Collars to send information to cell phones and laptop. If your pet has gone far, you can send information about his location in real time to police or fire departments that will find him and keep him safe until you arrive.

Never lose your pet again - get a GPS Collar for him or her. It feels and looks like a regular collar, and is completely safe and harmless to your dog or cat. GPS collars can even be made for birds and specially fit ones can be put on some reptiles.

GPS Collars have other uses as well - for example, when driving or hiking with your dog, the collar can help both of you know where you are. You can put the small GPS cat collar in your pocket and use it to know where you are even without your pet present.

There are too many stories about dogs wandering off into dangerous areas, or cats getting out and fighting with animals much bigger than them. Slowly these stories are being replaced by tales of dogs and cats wearing GPS collars and being rescued before they get in harm's way. Add your pet to the list of animals who were saved by a GPS dog collar or GPS cat collar.

Learn what farmers already know in order to track expensive cattle, and what many parents have learned in order to track their kids, use GPS technology for piece of mind!

GPS chips can provide a pet owner with a sense of security and comfort, but they should never take the place of all other preventative actions one would take to ensure their pet's safety. These GPS chips might augment what you already do, but they should never take the place of your current methods of watching over and protecting your pet.

Finding Pets Online

2008-03-13T23:50:00.000-07:00

When you hear about somebody who wants to find a pet online, what is the first thing that you think about? For some people, the idea of pets and the virtual world online may never cross paths in the same thought. For others, they may have grown up in this new technological era and regularly search the Internet for almost anything that they have ever wanted to purchase. Whether you know it or not, finding pets online and pet classified ads online are not only very common, but actually a beneficial and much improved method when searching for the perfect pet.

When you are searching for pets online, you can discover a lot of information that may otherwise be unavailable to you just by going to your local pet shop or library. Information about pets that would take you days or even weeks to track down in the "real world" can be found in mere moments online. The huge volume of pet information that is available online can be used to help you discover the perfect pet for you or for someone you love.

Many types of pets have special needs and it is important to get as much information as you can before you invest a significant amount of money in a pet that you may have to find another owner because you were not prepared to meet it's needs once you found your ideal pet. For example, somebody who lived in the tropics would probably not have an ideal environment for many pets like Alaskan Malamutes or other animals that live in colder environments.

Many animals, especially among the more exotic pets, may be very fascinating and even very beautiful in their own way but you must be certain that you have the necessary environment to raise your pets properly. All of your efforts will be in vain unless you can take care of your pets once you bring them home. In the case of many exotic pets and global or national championship stock animals, this could be a very expensive loss that is unnecessary with preparation, research and planning for your pets.

Additionally, searching for pets online will allow you to get to know the people who actually sell the pets and in many instances, the animal breeders themselves. Finding a reputable pet shop, dealer or a breeder can be difficult if you do not know where to look. Often times, breeders do not go out of their way to advertise their services. If you are not currently involved in the showcasing of certain breeds or you are not actively involved in the social communities that come with some pets, it may be nearly impossible to find a pet without the Internet.

Whether you are searching for dogs and cats online or looking for a pet that is more exotic in nature, you can find a pet online that will meet all of your needs and furthermore, one that can comfortably adjust to your personal environment as well. Next time you think about getting a pet, think about how to find a pet online and you will likely be very pleased with the improved results.

Is Your Cat Misbehaving? 4 Tips to Understanding Your Cat

2008-03-13T03:38:00.000-07:00

Despite their status as the most popular pet in America, cats can still be difficult. With their sometimes aloof attitudes and unwillingness to tell us what they want, figuring out your cat can be tough.

When your cat, whether it's an Abyssinian or a Turkish Van, starts misbehaving, it can cause serious damage. From ripped curtains to urine-stained bed sheets, a cat on the rampage is hard to handle. Unfortunately, many owners give up on cats with behavior problems, but there are steps you can take to help your cat grow through or out of them.

To learn how to stop your cat from misbehaving, keep reading for 4 key tips on how to understand your cat.

1. Take your cat to the vet for a complete physical.

Sometimes a behavior problem can actually be a physical problem. For example, a cat that's urinating in strange places may be suffering from an illness or an infection.

Your vet can also offer suggestions and advice for problems that are behavioral.

2. Check the house for environmental factors.

Sometimes the solution is simpler than you think so check around the house for environmental factors that could be wreaking havoc on your cat's disposition.

For example, litter box problems are typically the source of rampant or improper urination. First, check where you're keeping the litter box - is it next to a loud appliance or in a heavily trafficked area of the house? Just like you, your cat wants a private and quiet place to do its business. You can also try a covered litter box, which most cats, particularly longhaired cat breeds, tend to prefer.

Next, try switching out the litter that you're using. If you're using scented, try unscented and if you're using non-clumping, try clumping. Some cats are just picky about their litter.

Finally, make sure the litter box is being cleaned frequently enough. Just as you wouldn't want to use a dirty toilet, your cat also wants a clean litter box. Also, make sure there is at least one litter box per cat as cats prefer to have their own.

3. Look to your other pets.

Sometimes problems with other animals in the house, like an aggressive older cat or a constantly chasing dog can lead to behavioral problems. Much like the child who acts out after being bullied, your cat may be dealing with those issues in the same way.

Always introduce new animals into the house slowly, keeping them separated from one another, but still able to smell and hear each other. Once they've gotten acquainted, let them co-mingle. If you're trying to deal with an existing problem, try using baby gates to keep your cats or pets separate from one another for a few days. This separation can help reduce anxiety.

4. Consult a professional.

Expensive and sometimes a last resort for many pet-owners, a pet behavior specialist may be able to help you and your cat work through your problems. According to the listings provided by the Association of Companion Animal Behavior Counselors (ACABC), a private behavior 1-hour consultation can cost anywhere from about $50 to $500, but most hover around the $70-$100 range.

How to Navigate On-line Pet Classifieds and Protect Yourself

2008-03-11T03:15:00.000-07:00

Whether you're looking to purchase a new pet or advertise pets for sale, the Internet is perfect for seeking out information, reputable breeders and potential pet-buyers. However, with the convenience and vast selection that on-line pet classifieds provide, there also comes the need to check references and ask lots of questions. Keep reading for great tips on how to get the most out of advertising pets for sale or purchasing a pet online.

1. Ask for references
Always ask for references. As a pet buyer, you want to make sure that the breeder from whom you're purchasing is reputable and known for placing their animals in good homes. Actually call up the references and ask about the breeder's follow-up, their health screening and the conditions of their breeding business.

If you're a breeder and posting a "pets for sale" online classified, then you also want to make sure that your prospective buyer is the kind of person that will love and properly care for the animal. Feel free to ask them for character references or a veterinary reference if they own other animals.

2. Access the online pet/breed community
The Internet offers animal researchers a wealth of animal information, including access to pet communities with forums, image galleries and lots of breed information.

If you're looking to purchase a new animal (dog, cat, horse, bird, etc) through an online classified ad, try locating an Internet based pet community and joining. Once you're a member, ask questions, request referrals for quality breeders and solicit advice on your particular breed or species. It's like a neighborhood meeting, but specifically tailored to your pet questions.

A good pet classifieds site will also include information about different breeds and animals, as well as access to these valuable communities. For example, FindaPetonline.com is a pet classified site that also hosts a user-based web community and breed profiles.

3. Ask for a picture
If you're trying to buy a dog online (or cat, horse, or bird), always ask for pictures or video. Many quality breeders will be happy to provide remote buyers with short video footage of the prospective puppy playing and interacting with his brood.

If the animal is being sold as a purebred or as having been born from registered parents, ask for scans of the parental registration along with all the paperwork. Feel free to phone up the appropriate club or registration association to confirm the information.

4. Ask questions
If you're trying to sell an animal online through pet classifieds, don't be afraid to ask the prospective buyer questions. You want to make sure your prized horse, puppy, bird or kitten is going to a good home, so don't hesitate to ask about yard size or living conditions.

Buyers, the person selling you the animal should also be willing and ready to answer questions about everything from specific breed requirements to feed suggestions to how they house and care for their animals.

Remember, the Internet is a great opportunity to get in touch with qualified breeders and buyers all over the world, but with that potential comes a certain amount of responsibility. So, get documentation, ask questions, get references and access your online pet community.

CS Swarens is the president of Find a Pet Online. 800 998-7065

Safe Traveling For Your Dog, Cat or Bird

2008-03-11T03:12:00.000-07:00

When traveling, the most important thing to do is to take frequent breaks. Always buckle your pet in with a harness if you are not using a crate while driving. The safest and most comfortable place for your pet during car travel is in the back seat. When you have your pet in the back seat, always have some sort of bar barrier between the front and back seat -such as the 10 Bar Euro Auto Pet Barrier - or use a hammock-style barrier. This keeps your pet out of the way when you're driving.

A great option for keeping your pet occupied during travel is some sort of cushioned booster seat, which are available for dogs up to 30 lbs. These booster seats are calming for animals that stress easily during travel. Your dog or cat will be able to watch the surroundings, and be cushioned for comfort. Some great booster seats are the Lookout I or II. An option for cat traveling is the Kittywalk Cozy Cabin. All have a seat belt harness for added safety.

Traveling with a bird can sometimes prove precarious. The best way to prepare your feathered friend is to acclimate your bird to a travel cage a few weeks prior to actually traveling. If you are using a crate, and your bird is calm around it, you can acclimate them to the crate. We recommend a travel cage when traveling by car. It allows your bird to look out and see you at the same time. This will provide comfort to your bird during the stress of travel. Some birds actually end up enjoying traveling - they get to look out the car window and see a whole new collection of sights!

Another thing to remember while traveling with your bird is environmental control. NEVER leave any animal in a car without environment control, regardless of the weather outside.

Unfortunately, when traveling with exotic birds such as parrots, theft is common. Never leave your windows rolled down or your doors unlocked when you have to leave a bird in your car. Get a few duplicate car keys and wear one around your neck while traveling. If you make a pit stop and you have to leave your car out of your sight with your bird inside, lock the doors with the car still running (for environmental control), and use your extra key to open the door when you get back. Only be gone for a minute or two at the most, and always cover your bird when you leave him behind in your car to deter theft.

Sun Conure Owner's Guide

2008-02-26T04:15:00.001-08:00

The sun conure is a small bird from the parrot family. It is known for its remarkable color patterns and its intelligence. This bird can be a great addition to your family if you learn what it needs and how to care for it.

The sun conure is only about twelve inches long from head to tail. They have a large head and beak with very striking colors. They usually have lots of yellow, orange and green on them. Their beak is black and their feet are gray. This bird originates from the eastern parts of South America, mostly by the Amazon River. It isn't found in as many places as it used to be found because people came and took the birds to sell them. They used to be found in Southeast Venezuela, Northeast Brazil, Northern Amazon, Guyana, Surinam and French Guiana.

One of the best things about this bird besides its beauty is how affectionate it is. They are extremely social and absolutely love to interact with their owners. They will just sit on your shoulder for hours and even like to be held! If you get this bird you will have to spend plenty of time with it. This definitely isn't a shy bird.

Because of how smart this bird is, it is even capable of doing tricks! Some can even be potty trained. They do have the capability to talk but they use a somewhat squeaky voice. The sun conure loves to perform for people and play. They also love to take baths so you should provide a bathing dish. If you don't put a bathing dish in their cage then they will splash around in their water bowl. You can also mist them with a water bottle because they truly enjoy this.

The minimum cage size for this bird is 20 inches long by 20 inches wide by 24 inches tall. You should put several perches in the cage of various sizes. Sun conures also love toys so make sure you get some for their cage. Try to get lots of toys so they will have something to do. They even like to play with things like toilet paper rolls!

You should feed your sun conure a base diet of pellet formula. You can also feed fortified parrot seed. These birds will need to be fed fruits and vegetables in addition to this base diet. You can't just feed them seeds and expect them to be healthy. Also, don't leave any fresh foods in their cage for more than a few hours though. Also make sure they have fresh water at all times. Make sure you never feed your bird avocado, cabbage, parsley and iceberg lettuce.

Sun conures do make really fun, fascinating pets, but you should be aware that they can be very noisy birds. They usually will start to scream in the mornings and evenings. It is an extremely loud scream. You have to be prepared for this. You also have to remember that they require lots of attention. If you take good care of your bird it can live to be about thirty years old.

Pet Canary Care

2008-02-26T04:11:00.000-08:00

If you're considering sharing your home with a pet canary, it's probably because you've heard so much about their nearly constant, bubbly singing. Join the club! Since the seventeenth century, pet owners the world over have kept canaries for nothing more than the sheer pleasure of birdsong filling their homes. A canary is not merely a feathered music box, though, and pet canary care is so much more than the gilded cage of old. A canary is a living thing, dependent on you for food, shelter, and love, and canary care, while not rocket science, involves a certain level of avian expertise. Ready to become an expert? Study hard!

Thanks to selective breeding, there's quite possibly a canary out there to suit every personality and desire. Some canaries are bred for their coloration, some are bred for their shape, and some, of course, are bred to produce a very specific song pattern. What kind of canary you purchase will depend on what canary resources are available near you. If you can find a reputable canary breeder, that will be your best option. Many pet stores now, however, commit to purchasing healthy birds only from reputable breeders, but check first to make sure that your canary was not wild caught or raised in less-than-desirable conditions. If the pet store manager can not account for where your potential canary came from, don't buy a canary from that store! Oh, and be sure that the canary you purchase is a male, if it's a strong singer you're after. The females are incapable of producing the characteristic long trills and melodies that made canaries famous.

Canaries can be quite delicate, so a primary part of learning to care for a pet canary is to realize that prevention is key. If there's a number one rule of pet canary care, it's that you absolutely must keep your canary away from drafts at all times. A drafty room can kill a canary without any warning whatsoever, and even a slight draft can prevent your canary from warbling. If a lit candle flickers when held outside your canary's cage, then you've picked a spot that's too drafty for your new feathered friend! As far as cages go, your canary doesn't require anything too spectacular-just enough room to hop about and stretch his wings. Make sure you purchase a cage that is at least two feet wide and three or four feet tall. Get a cage with a tray in the bottom to make for easy cleaning, and make sure that the bars of the cage are not coated with toxic paint or other chemical sealants. You should clean your canary's cage thoroughly at least once a week, washing perches, food and water containers, and toys in a mild bleach solution, and washing down the rest of the cage with dish soap and warm water.

While they can't stand drafts, canaries do love indirect sunlight. A good supply of natural light will keep your canary singing, and will also interest him in breeding should a female be present. If a draft will kill a canary the fastest, a second runner up is dehydration. Because of their speedy metabolisms, canaries require a lot of water and may die if they go as little as a day without it. Change your canary's water daily and never leave for more than a day without asking someone to water your canary for you. As for food, seed is the mainstay of a canary's diet, and there are many good commercially available seed mixes made specifically for canaries. You should supplement your canary's seed with a little fresh fruit and boiled egg every day. An apple slice and a fourth of a hard boiled egg is enough. You should also provide your canary with a cuttlebone, as he will gnaw on this to attain necessary calcium.

With these basic rules and supplies of pet canary care well in hand, you're ready to seek out the perfect canary for you. Will you choose a rosy red colorbred canary, an exotic Persian Singer, or something in between? Whatever your decision, your canary will thank you exuberantly for the next ten to fifteen years the best way he knows how-by singing his heart out.

Start Your Own Animal Kingdom With A Home Loan Mortgage Lender

2008-02-25T03:28:00.001-08:00

We all know that a dog is man’s best friend, but it actually holds true for cats, rabbits, hamsters, and even goldfishes as well. A pet is always a furry bundle of fun. For the ill, the troubled, and the lonely, having a pet is a valuable source of comfort and companionship. And they are always good for a laugh.

Animal Haters

Though you may move heaven and earth for your pet, you may find that other people don’t feel the same way. There will always be neighbors complaining about your dog’s bark in the middle of the night. If you’re renting an apartment, landlords often have aversions to pets and you may find yourself in a position of having to give up either your flat or your pet. Of course, animal lover that you are, there’s no doubt that you’ll choose the latter. But unless you can find a new home quickly, you and your furry friend may find yourselves out on the streets.

And They Lived Happily Ever After

Consider having a place of your own where you and your pet can have plenty of room to frolic and where no pesky landlord can rain on your parade. Wouldn’t that be nice? With this in mind, it’s time to have a talk with a home loan mortgage lender. Not only can a home loan mortgage lender help you become an owner and not a renter, you can also be sure that you and your furry companion will live a long and happy life together.

Almost The Vet

When you have finally established a relationship with a home loan mortgage lender, it’s time to think of the more meaningful relationship you have with your pet. Consider his or her needs as well as your own. Does your Labrador retriever have a lot of pent up energy just waiting to be released? Choose a house with a lot of space and a backyard where he or she can spend time chasing birds. Is your cat overweight and can’t move around very much? Choose a one-storey bungalow so he or she won’t have to climb up stairs.

Whatever your pet needs, your home loan mortgage lender can provide it. Well, probably not rawhide bones or neutering. That’s a job for the vet, not the home loan mortgage lender.

As Always, There’s Room For More

When you and your furry buddy finally move into your new home, it might be a shame not to share all the space that you now have. It may be time to find a companion for your companion. After all, who’s going to keep him or her company when you’re at work, slaving away to pay off your home loan mortgage lender? As they say, the more, the merrier, and that is indeed true with pets.

There’s nothing like a house filled with happy little puppies or kittens. It will be utter chaos! But that’s part of the fun, isn’t it? After all, you can never have too much company.

Tips For Keeping Your Pug Happy And Healthy

2008-02-25T03:23:00.000-08:00

Bringing home a Pug can change our life, but it is also a big responsibility. When you become a Pug owner, it is up to you to make sure that your pet's needs are met including, proper care, a safe environment and lots of love! Caring for a dog is a commitment, but has many rewards.

One of the most important things you can do to make sure your Pug has all the tools he needs to stay safe is to give him obedience training. A dog that is not properly trained will be a nuisance to others, while one that has the appropriate obedience training is a pleasure to be around. Many a dog has been considered a “bad” dog when all he really needed was the owner to take the time out to train him properly.

If you train your dog properly, not only will he have some cool tricks to show off, but it will also add to his safety. If your dog is properly trained, then you will be able to call him back to you should he be heading towards a dangerous situation. A well trained Pug Will be well behaved around strangers and the family – an obedient companion. Plus the training process can help define you as the master and act as a bonding experience for you and your pet.

The Pug is a very sociable dog as well as being extremely smart and quite stubborn. They are sensitive so yelling at him will not help you in training. Since Pugs are very smart they will train easily but can get bored with the same old lessons so you must always be showing them new tricks.

Also important for the health of your Pug is to provide your dog with excellent veterinary care. He should have a checkup every year and please make sure all vaccinations are up to date. Anytime you notice a difference in your Pugs behavior, schedule a vet appointment right away. Even a subtle change could be a sign of trouble and it’s better to be safe than sorry. Have your Pug neutered or spayed - they WILL be much happier.

Providing a safe environment for your Pug especially when he is a puppy, can help eliminate unfortunate accidents. Make sure every room your dog has free access too is “dog proofed” and there are no sharp objects or small pieces laying around that he could step on or eat. When guests come over, or if the kids are running in and out, make sure they know not to leave the door open so the dog can get out. Refrain from feeding your Pug food from the table as some of it can be harmful.

Grooming your Pug can help your pet look and feel his best. Cleaning his ears, brushing his fur, trimming his nails – these all contribute to the overall health and happiness of your pooch. Proper dental care is the most important grooming task you can do for your Pug. Without regular brusing, bacteria can build up in your dogs mouth. This bacteria can break away and cause serious health problems for your dog. Make sure you brush at least a couple of times a week and have a dental check up every year!

Hopefully you’ll never need to act on it, but you should have a plan for the dog in case of emergency. Your dog may be helpless in an emergency such as a fire or gas leak, so you need to plan on someone in the family being the one who is responsible for getting the dog out. Also, it is a good idea to make sure you have a “babysitter” you feel safe leaving your dog with in case an emergency takes you out of town suddenly.

Welcoming a Pug into your home as a pet, you are making a lifetime commitment to provide everything he needs for a healthy and happy life. Some Pugs can live for 15 years with good care – hopefully yours will live at least that long and the rewards you get from the loyal companionship of your pet will far outweigh the commitment you make to his health.

Siamese Cats - Unique Personality and Characteristics

2008-02-23T04:41:00.000-08:00

Dog and cat show veterans are required to know their breed’s ideal characteristics. The average pet owner chooses a pet for companionship and may not realize the complexities of various breeds. One of the most interesting pets is the Siamese cat.

The precise origin of Siamese cats is unknown. The breed may have descended from sacred temple cats in Siam, now known as Thailand. Siamese cats are distinguished by a creamy coat and unique dark “points” on the ears, face, tail and legs. These marks are not present from birth, because they are the result of an enzyme in the Siamese cats’ fur. The enzyme is not activated at normal body temperature, so the dark points appear on their extremities where temperatures are cooler. The points usually develop by the time the kitten is four weeks old.

For decades, the show standard for Siamese cats allowed only very dark brown, or seal colored, points. However, cross breeding produced cats with many pattern variations, including chocolate, lilac, blue and red points. Today, seal, chocolate, lilac and blue points are permissible for showing in the United States. As the cat ages, its creamy fur may turn to a pale shade of its point color. This is especially true of Siamese cats with seal colored points.

Originally, many Siamese cats had crooked tails and crossed eyes. The crossed eyes were caused by an overproduction of the enzyme that produces color points on the extremities. These traits are considered flaws in the show ring, so breeders work to eliminate them. Siamese cats are also known for their striking, bright blue eyes.

Siamese cats have as much in common with dogs as they do with other cats. They do not have the archetypal feline independent streak and can become extremely attached to their owners. Siamese cats are exceptionally intelligent; this intelligence makes them easy to train. Some even learn typically canine tricks, such as fetching and walking on a leash.

The Siamese cat has short, smooth hair that requires little extra grooming. A good brushing with remove extra hair and reduce shedding, and the cat may enjoy the gentle massage. However, this is not necessary, because they are as meticulous in grooming themselves as most cat breeds.

Neutering will usually prevent a male cat from spraying. This procedure can be done before the male cat is six months old. Those considering adopting a Siamese cat should be advised that females may go into heat as early as five months of age but should not be spayed until they have reached six months.

Siamese cats also have a very distinctive voice, which is often compared to a human baby’s cry. It can reach decibel levels as high as those of emergency sirens.

I'm Allergic To My Cat!

2008-02-23T04:39:00.000-08:00

Having a cat allergy came as something of a surprise to me. Growing up, I had many pets - cats, dogs and birds. My family were animal lovers and pets abounded, so being in contact with animals was a daily occurance. No one ever seemed to suffer from a cat allergy or any kind of animal allergy for that matter.

After my teens and my last pet had died, I wasn't in a position to take on another pet for many years. Then, eleven years ago, a friend of a cousin was looking for a home for their last remaining kitten. And so it was that Kira came into my life. This was a cat with attitude (and still is!) and we bonded pretty much immediately. While she was still a kitten, I'd put her in the kitchen overnight with a little cat bed to sleep in and the litter box close by.

As she grew older, I started letting her sleep in the bedroom. It's surprising how relaxing a cat's purring can be in wee small hours.

A little over a year later, when down with the vet getting some supplies, I heard that there was a kitten that needed a home or it would have to be put to sleep. And so, Fritz came home with me that day.

Unfortuately, Kira was less than impressed with this interloper and I had to keep the two separated for several days before an uneasy truce ensued.

They're an odd pair - Kira has attitude, Fritz is much more companionable; what you'd call a "gentle soul". She's still the Queen around the house and occasionally puts Fritz in his place with a right-hook to the face when she feels the need to assert her authority.

As Fritz matured, he also was allowed into the bedroom. Both he and Kira would sleep there during the day and night, as was their want.

We all know that cats are the greatest creature-comfort-seeking animals on the planet and a comfy place to catnap is one of their major concerns. But the place your cat chooses to snooze may not be your first choice. While I didn't mind the cats sleeping on the bed, I did take exception to Fritz's tendency to charge in from the garden and sleep in a basket of warm, freshly dried laundry straight from the dryer.

The Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine recently conducted a poll of pet-owners on the sleeping habits of their pets and found that 60% of them sleep in bed with one of the family. Where cats are concerned, there are two potential problems here: one is that, somehow, they manage to take up 90% of the bed and the other has to do with allergies.

I found I had a mild cat allergy when I started producing weird wheezing noises any time I was doing something strenuous. Coughing eased it for a few minutes but it would always return. I figured I’d developed a mild form of asthma, probably due to bad air quality and pollution, so I went to the doctor to have it checked out. After listening to my lungs he asked me one question: "Do you have a cat?"

Well, yes, I did. Two in fact.

"You’re allergic to your cats", he intoned.

Then he asked if the cats slept in the bedroom. Of course they did.

"There’s your real problem", he said. "What you’re allergic to is the dander produced by your cats. When a cat sleeps on your bed, the dander ends up in the sheets and the duvet and you breathe it in deeply at night when you’re asleep. Not good. That’s what causes your wheeziness. Stop the cats sleeping in your bedroom for two or three weeks and see if that eases your symptoms. If not, you’ll probably need to use an inhaler for the rest of your life."

Ok, that last sentence kinda hit me between the eyes. Much as I love my two furballs, I didn’t want to suffer a long-lasting health problem that could possibly be avoided.

So why is dander such a problem? It's the layer of dead skin that's rich in animal protein, which is continuously shed by animals. Sebaceous (oil producing) glands in the skin also produce these protein allergens. Male cats have, on average, greater amounts of sebaceous secretions and therefore are more allergenic than female or neutered male cats. This is a result of testosterone hormone effects on sebaceous glands.

So, with that information and the prospect of an enduring health problem, I banned my cats from the bedroom, threw out the duvet (on the advice of the doctor), bought a new one and changed everything on the bed (including getting new pillows). I didn’t get too much sleep the first few nights with the cats meowing and scratching on the door to get in but they got used to the idea, finally. After three weeks in a cat free bedroom, my wheeziness had all but disappeared. The cats haven’t been allowed back in since.

Should you find yourself with a similar cat allergy problem, banning the cat from your bedroom is one possible course of action. Alternatively, you can get your cat his own cat bed and put that somewhere out of harm's way (yours and the cat's).

Since finding out I was mildly allergic to my cats, I've spoken to other cat owners about it and quite a number also suffer some mild form of allergic reaction - sneezing, wheezing, watering eyes, blocked sinuses and so on. Owners appear to become at least somewhat immune to their own cats insofar as the symptoms are not as pronounced as they become when they're around other people's cats.

But, having said that, none of us would ever part with our feline companions and would exhort others to adopt a cat as a pet, as the benefits far outweigh any minor inconveniences.

Animal dander allergy can significantly contribute to respiratory problems involving the sinuses, nasal passages, and eyes, as well as causing upper respiratory tract problems that can result in asthma (as in my case). These problems can significantly diminish your quality of life despite various medical treatments. For some people, it can be even more serious, leading to recurrent acute asthmatic attacks that can be life threatening, requiring emergency room visits and hospitalizations. The good news is that most people who are allergic to their pets can keep their symptoms under control if they know the facts.

Serious Health Signs in Pets

2008-02-21T01:16:00.000-08:00

When do you know you have to take your pet to the veterinarian? If you answer yes to any of these questions, then the time is immediately. There might be other signs, but these are the basic ones experts insist you must pay attention to:

1. Has your pet lost its appetite for more than two days?

2. Has your pet vomited more than twice?

3. Has your pet had diarrhea for more than two days?

4. Does your pet vomit and have diarrhea?

5. Is your pet behaving with unusual listlessness - brooding, hiding in the bushes, lacking enthusiasm for its favorite activities?

6. Has your pet collapsed?

7. Has your pet had a seizure or an uncontrolled muscle spasm?

8. Does your pet seem confused or disoriented?

9. Is your pet walking into things or circling without apparent reason?

10. Is your pet's body temperature more than 103F?

11. Is your pet having problems with breathing?

12. Does your pet have discharges from mouth and/or nose and is it breathing fast?

13. Is your pet bleeding from the mouth, nose, ears, anus, vulva or penis?

14. Have you observed blood in your pet's stool or vomit?

15. Does your pet flinch in pain when touched, when getting up or lying down? Does it display other signs of pain?

16. Is your pet suffering from a bite, large cut, or cut that bleeds so profusely you cannot stop it?

17. Do you suspect a broken bone?

18. Have you any cause to think that your pet has eaten poison?

19. Does your pet drink abnormal amounts of water? Is it urinating excessively?

20. Is your cat acting strangely in the litter box?

21. Is your pet's ear inflamed or discharging?

22. Is your pet's eye swollen, glazed, protruding, or discharging purulent material? Is the pupil unusually dilated?

Take your pet to the vet as soon as you can if you pet has any of the following signs of illness:

1. Lack of alertness and interest in the world.

2. Discharges.

3. Scratching.

4. Dull coat, hair loss, or irritated, unhealthy skin.

5. Lameness.

6. Overweight or unexplained weight loss.

7. Coughing or sneezing.

8. Swellings.

9. Constipation or incontinence.

10. Bad breath, abnormal teeth or gums.

11. Scooting rear end on the ground.

Note about pet birds: See your vet if the bird acts sick, sneezes, or vomits. Observe stools for diarrhea or constipation. Separate the bird from other birds, and keep it warm.

How To Do Cat Litter Box Retraining

2008-02-21T01:15:00.000-08:00

Cats stop using the cat litter box for a number of reasons. Once you discover the reason why and correct it, you may need to re-train your cat to use her box again. Despite what you think, you can train a cat! For most cats, it's not hard. They instinctively want to use a place with sand-like material to do their business.

To re-train your cat back to her good litter box habits, confine her to one room. It's hard to say exactly for how long, but most cats are back in the habit within a week.

Pick a nice sunny room for kitty. Set up a clean cat litter box, food, water, toys, and bedding for her to sleep on. Be sure to put her food and water as far away from her litter box as possible.

Keep kitty in this room while you're gone. Many cat owners purchase kitty DVDs for their cat to watch all day long while they're gone. These DVDs feature birds, squirrels, chipmunks, and other critters that dart around. You can set up the DVD to play in a continuous loop all day long. These videos are also available in VHS tape format.

Let kitty out under your supervision. If she looks like she's heading for her favorite corner to make an illegal dump, get her back to her room immediately, and place her in the cat litter box. If she uses it, praise her.

Generally, cats "get it" very quickly. For one thing, they get lonely being in a room by themselves. For another, it's a cat's natural inclination to use a litter box. As long as you've corrected the source of her problem with the litter box, she'll go back to using it.

If you can't let your cat out and supervise her, be sure to visit kitty often. Sit in the room with her, and keep her company. Watch the DVD with her!

Confinement is not cruel if it's done properly. If your cat won't use the litter box during her confinement period, then the cat urine odor damage is limited to one room. If after a few days, your cat is still not using her cat litter box, please consult with your vet. There may a deeper issue that you simply can't tell from observation.

Nancy stopped the cat urine odor problem at her home, and kept the kitty that caused it. "18 Ways to Stop Cat Urine Odor Problems" saves you money, time and frustration by solving your cat urine odor problem - permanently.

Cat Toys - Make Your Pet Happy

2008-02-20T01:55:00.000-08:00

Christmas is right around the corner and the family cats would like to remind you not to leave them out this year. While many people think their pets don't understand Christmas; that's not true. While they may not understand the nuances of the holiday, cats and dogs do understand the excitement that fills the air around this time of year. While they may not understand the idea behind Santa, they know there is a lot of wrapping paper flying and that everyone around them is getting new things to play with.

You may have noticed that the cat has been crawling in the middle of everything going on and pawing at presents a time or two. That's because he wants to be a part of the family and take part in this family fun event, even if he doesn't completely understand what it's all about. So, make sure to remember this year to include the cat in these activities. It's not hard. Most cats have a certain type of cat toys they enjoy. You can purchase a few new toys for them to unwrap (with a little help from you).

If you want a really fun toy this year, here are some of the top cat toys on the Kitty Christmas 2007 List:

Da Bird Interactive Toy for Cats - This is a simple, yet very popular, cat toy. Think of a fishing pole with a stretchy piece of string and a feathered lure on the end. This is essentially what this toy is, minus the hooks. While it seems simple enough, it's amazingly popular with cats. You may even notice when you're not swinging the toy around your cat is trying to play with it by himself.

Mews Ments 5-in-1 Laser Pet Toy and Exerciser - This present is like having a number of cat toys in one. It's one of the laser pointer key chains you may have seen in the past, but this one has fun designs that a cat will like to chase, including a mouse and butterfly. You can kick back and whirl the laser around the room and watch your cat get quite a workout trying to catch the flashing images. This is one of the cat toys that seem to entertain the whole family as they watch the cat chase the light pattern. Just make sure not to shine the pattern directly in the cat's eyes.

If you really want to have a good time, you may be able to take a couple good-smelling cat treats and lightly wrap them in paper, letting the cat rip it open. Just watch that your cat is not eating the paper. Some cats will rip the paper, other cats will eat it, If yours is prone to eating, don't try this.

Another tactic to take is to put a few cat treats in a small box that the cat will have to knock around to open. You can give him the same attention that you give the kids when it's time to open presents and he well may be very excited to be taking part in the family event.

Epilepsy in Dogs and Cats

2008-02-19T02:03:00.001-08:00

Epilepsy is a non progressive brain disorder that induces recurrent seizures. It is very important to understand that there are numerous disorders that can cause seizures, and in order to make a diagnosis of true epilepsy, many of these other causes must be ruled out.

What is a Seizure?

A seizure is the clinical manifestation of a cerebral disorder that can appear suddenly out of a background of normality, and then disappear with equal abruptness. The term fit is often used colloquially when referring to a seizure.

In humans, an epileptic seizure is a definable event that can be classified according to categories set by the International League Against Epilepsy. A formal classification system specifically for dogs and cats does not exist, but seizures can nevertheless be classified as either partial or generalized episodes.

Partial Seizures

These are seizures in which a localized onset may be determined. They usually have a congenital (present at birth) or an acquired (cancer, encephalitis) cause, and can sometimes evolve into a secondary generalized seizure.

Generalized Seizures

Generalized seizures are the most common type of seizures in dogs and cats. There are several variations of these seizures:

1. Absence seizures (petit mal): sudden brief loss of consciousness, rare in animals
2. Myoclonic seizures: muscle jerk of one or more muscles
3. Clonic seizures: rhythmic muscle contractions
4. Tonic seizures: increase in muscle tone in all skeletal muscles
5. Tonic Clonic seizures (grand mal): the most common form of seizure in pets

Tonic Clonic Seizures

Tonic Clonic (grand mal) seizures account for 60% of seizures in cats and 80% of seizures in dogs. They are usually accompanied by a loss of consciousness, and consist of a tonic phase, where the increased muscle tone causes the animal to fall on its side with its limbs extended, and a clonic phase, consisting of intense muscle jerking or paddling movements.

Causes of Seizures

In order to diagnose true epilepsy, other causes of seizures must be first ruled out. The questions a veterinarian must answer are:

Is the cause inside the brain or outside the brain?

If inside the brain, is the cause progressive (e.g. cancer, infection) or non progressive (epilepsy)?

If outside the brain, does the cause originate inside the body (e.g. low blood glucose, kidney failure, a liver problem) or outside the body (e.g. lead poisoning, organophosphate toxicity)?

Making a Diagnosis

If an animal has a solitary seizure, most veterinarians will advise against expensive and time consuming tests for something that may never happen again. If an animal has more than one seizure though, tests are indicated.

A veterinarian will start by taking a detailed case history, focusing on the description of the animals seizures, their frequency and duration, and the animals behavior between seizures. Ideally the seizure should be videotaped by the owner, and then shown to the veterinarian. It is important to differentiate a proper seizure from other causes of collapse such as an episode of syncope (where the heart misses several beats), narcolepsy or weakness due to another neurological problem (e.g. myasthenia gravis). Features of the description which indicate a seizure are:

1. Tonic (increased muscle tone) and clonic (jerky) muscle movements
2. Loss of consciousness (though not always)
3. Increased salivation
4. Spontaneous urination or defaecation

The veterinarian will then conduct a full clinical examination, followed by a more specific neurological examination. Blood will then be taken for full hematology and biochemistry profiles. A fasting blood glucose is useful to rule out hypoglycaemia, which is a frequent cause of seizures in dogs less than 6 months old and dogs with an insulinoma, an insulin secreting pancreatic tumor. If liver enzymes are raised, a further liver function test (bile acid stimulation) may be done. Blood lead levels should be measured in animals that may have had access to lead containing materials.

Xrays of the chest and abdomen are sometimes performed to check for any other significant disease, and fecal analysis is recommended in puppies with seizures as heavy parasite burdens have been implicated.

If all of the above tests are normal, and no disease outside the brain has been detected, many animals will be diagnosed with epilepsy as further tests are of the expensive variety. If further tests for intracranial (within the brain) disease are to be performed, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis is the first step. CSF is tested for the presence of viral (e.g. Canine Distemper, Rabies), bacterial, fungal (e.g. Cryptococcus) and protozoal (e.g. Toxoplasmosis) infections. Electroencephalography (EEG) is useful for diagnosing malformations present since birth, such as hydrocephalus. Brain tumors are often only able to be diagnosed by advanced imaging techniques such as Computed Tomography (CT) Scanning or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). These must be done under general anesthesia as the animal must be completely motionless during the scan.

Treatment of Epilepsy

Once a tentative diagnosis of epilepsy has been made (by excluding all the other known causes of seizures), the animal can be prescribed anticonvulsant drugs. These drugs are not appropriate for animals with seizures caused by a problem outside the brain. The overall goal of anticonvulsant therapy is to eradicate all seizure activity, but this is rarely achieved. Most pets benefit from anticonvulsant drugs by reducing the frequency, severity and duration of their seizures. A more realistic goal is to reduce the frequency of the seizures to a level that is acceptable for the owner, without having negative side effects for the animal. A minority of animals require such high doses of anticonvulsant drugs to suppress their seizures that the adverse effects caused by it outweigh the benefits.

Since epilepsy is not curable, the owner must be prepared to give the medication for the rest of the animals life. However, if after being on anticonvulsant medication for over a year no seizures have occurred, a cautious slow reduction in dose can be attempted.

The three most commonly used drugs in the treatment of epilepsy in cats and dogs are:

1. Diazepam

Known to many by its trade name Valium, diazepam is used in emergency short term situations to treat animals in status epilepticus, i.e. during a seizure. It is best administered intravenously so that it is delivered to the brain quickly, though finding a vein or placing a catheter in a fitting animal can be a challenge. In those situations, it is sometimes given rectally, where it is fairly rapidly absorbed across the rectal wall. If status epilepticus continues despite the repeated administration of diazepam, phenobarbitone can be given intravenously.

2. Phenobarbitone

Phenobarbitone is the most commonly prescribed anticonvulsant drug for both canine and feline epilepsy, owing to its efficacy and its low cost. Over three quarters of epileptic dogs have their seizures controlled by phenobarbitone alone. Sometimes it can take several weeks for the level of phenobarbitone in the blood stream to reach a high enough level to work properly, so many vets favor using a higher loading dose initially, reducing it for the maintenance phase. However, care must be taken as high doses of phenobarbitone can cause liver damage, and liver enzymes should be periodically checked in animals on long term therapy. Annual blood tests are also advised to check serum concentration levels of the drug, to calibrate the dose effectively. High doses can also cause sedation.

3. Potassium Bromide

A proportion of dogs are resistant to phenobarbitone. In such dogs, the addition of potassium bromide, i.e. a second drug, can be tried. The potassium bromide may also be tried alone as an alternative to phenobarbitone, but generally only after phenobarbitone has been thoroughly investigated at various doses and found to be inadequate. Phenobarbitone is also deemed unsuitable if the dog has liver dysfunction of any kind, in these cases potassium bromide (often referred to simply as bromide as that is the therapeutic part) can be used. Potassium bromide is not used in cats, only diazepam and phenobarbitone are recommended in this species.

Bird Feeders - What Type Of Bird Feeder Should I Use?

2008-02-19T02:00:00.000-08:00

Variety is the most important consideration when setting up a new bird feeding area around your house. Since different bird species have different feeding preferences, the best way to attract a variety of species is to place several different feeders around your yard. You can provide millet and cracked corn on the ground or in tray feeders near ground level for sparrows, doves and quail; sunflower seeds are highly preferred by most songbirds and can be offered at tabletop level or higher to attract chickadees, cardinals, grosbeaks, titmice and house finches; thistle feeders can be placed at the same level predominately for American goldfinches; and suet feeders on tree trunks or hanging from tree limbs for woodpeckers, chickadees, creepers and nuthatches.

Feeders designed to exclude certain birds because of size, weight or behavior can help make your more expensive grain available only to preferred species. Tube feeders that are surrounded by a wire cage will keep larger birds like jays away from your sunflower seed. A tube feeder without a tray below it will restrict access to only small birds and if you remove the perches you've restricted the feeder to only those birds that can cling like finches, chickadees, nuthatches, titmice and woodpeckers. If starlings or jays are a problem at your suet feeder, discourage them by using a suet feeder with access only from the bottom. Starlings and jays are reluctant to perch upside down but your preferred species are not.

Separating feeders for different kinds of seed will also reduce competition at feeders and avoid unnecessary waste. Watch a feeder filled with a seed mix and you'll see the birds methodically drop or kick out most of the seeds to get to their favorite, sunflower seed. The most effective way to attract the largest variety of birds to your yard is to put out specific feeders for each food. These would include:

* A starling-resistant suet feeder

* A caged tube feeder for sunflower

* A bluebird feeder for meal worms

* A wire mesh cage feeder for peanuts

* A nectar feeder

* A tube feeder for thistle

* A stationary or tray fruit feeder

* A house or platform feeder for millet

When selecting feeder locations, consider visibility from your home, distance from shrubs and proximity to good perches. If at all possible choose southern exposures to give the birds a warmer, more protected area to congregate out of the wind. Try to locate feeders within 20 feet of nearby shrubs or thicket cover. This gives birds a place to escape if hawks or cats attack. Avoid placing feeders over shrubs however as this may give cats a hiding place for stalking birds.

Now that we have discussed different types of feeders, let's talk about what kind of seed is preferred by which species of bird. As previously stated, sunflower seeds are the favorite of chickadees, evening grosbeaks, tufted and plain titmice, nuthatches, blue jays, house finches, purple finches, woodpeckers and cardinals. As long as sunflower seed is available, these birds won't eat much else at feeders. The attraction is probably due to the fact that they have higher proportions of fat and protein than other common grains. For these reasons it is best to offer pure sunflower seed in separate feeders to prevent these birds from digging through and wasting mixed seed to get to the sunflower seed.

Proso millet comes in two varieties, white and red. Although both types are readily eaten, most species prefer white proso millet. Here is a list of the species that prefer millet: tree sparrow, song sparrow, brown-headed cowbird, dark-eyed junco, house sparrow, mourning dove, and white-throated sparrow.

Nyjer seed, also known as thistle is another high fat, high protein food. It is an excellent though very expensive food for finches. American goldfinches love nyjer seed as do the purple finch, house finch, redpoll, pine siskin, chickadee, mourning dove, song sparrow, white-throated sparrow, and dark-eyed junco. Special nyjer feeders with tiny holes help reduce spillage and competition from non-finches whose beaks are too large to remove seeds from the tiny holes. These feeders are superior to the mesh bag feeders that produce substantial amounts of seed spillage.

By utilizing a variety of feeders with a variety of feeds, you will have a diverse community of birds to enjoy in your own backyard.

Bird Feeders - What Type Of Bird Feeder Should I Use?

2008-02-18T01:39:00.001-08:00

How Sensible Is Cooking Your Own Dog Or Cat Food?

2008-02-18T01:36:00.000-08:00

The first thing to remember when considering home cooking for your pet is the simple truth that you are NOT cooking for a person, you are cooking for an animal - that might seem obvious, but so many pet owners treat their pets as if they were children.

Dogs, cats and people have different nutritional needs and some foods which are fine for you can be dangerous to them - you must take this into consideration.

Some pet owners begin feeding home cooked food because they find that their pet is not too interested in the commercial food being offered. Eventually they find themselves trapped because the pet will now not eat any commercially prepared food, and home cooking now constitutes 100% of the animal's daily intake. In these cases, arranging a diet composed of foods commonly used in the household may be the only way of delivering a balanced diet to the pet.

In some European countries homemade foods already supply an estimated 35% of cats with 60% of their caloric intake. When the pet receives more than half its daily calories from table foods, the whole diet should then be formulated to ensure a proper nutrient intake and avoid the dangers of obesity or other health problems.

Really, it's up to you and the ingredients that you have to hand, but a good guide to follow would be that given by Veterinary Surgeon John Burns of Burns Pet Nutrition who advises the following proportions of a home made diet for dogs

1/3 rd by volume boiled brown rice

1/3 rd by volume meat (this should be varied regularly using chicken, fish, lamb, beef)

1/3 rd by volume vegetable, again varied using roots and greens and to include some seaweed (dried or fresh)

John Burns adds 'I have less experience in the use of home made food for cats but in general cats need a higher level of protein and less carbohydrate.

'This could be achieved by increasing the meat portion to 50% with the rice and vegetable portions of 25% each. Again, some seaweed should be included to provide trace minerals.'

Cats have a very specific requirement for meat, and can't survive without several essential amino-acids found only in meat. So a vegetarian diet for a cat is really not on. Also limit the amount of liver you feed your cat (to avoid an excess of Vit A) and make sure to cook fish (regular feeding of raw fish can apparently lead to a vitamin B deficiency)

A few good foods to include

Vegetables - Green vegetables are a great way of boosting your dogs immune system, you can feed these raw or cooked. Raw carrot makes a healthy treat. Vegetables are possibly better for dogs than fruit. Potato must be cooked, and mashed potato is a suitable ingredient for home cooking.

Fruit - in the wild, dogs would have scavenged windfall fruit as well as digesting the remains of fruit eaten by other animals when they pick over the carcass, so giving your dog fruit is not as strange as it might sound. Fresh fruit is packed full of anti-oxidants, vitamins and all sorts of other healthy nutrients, so it's great for keeping your dog in top condition. Some fruits are quite acidic (as well as sugary) and may not be good for dogs with skin or digestive complaints.

Grains - Rice is universally recommended, and brown rice preferred, but make sure that it is well cooked so that your pet can get the maximum goodness.

Meat and fish - Vary the protein that you are feeding, so that a good range of amino acids is provided. Fish, particularly oily varieties are a good source of omega 3 and 6 oils.

Yoghurt - this is a great source of protein, calcium and vitamins, and is particularly good for dogs with diarrhoea thanks to the probiotics it contains.

Cottage cheese - another surprisingly healthy dairy food which is great for growing puppies and lactating bitches.

Brewer's yeast - Can be purchased from health food stores or chemists as a food supplement and is full of nutrients and vitamins. You only need to use about 1/2 tsp a day with recipes.

A few things to avoid

There are a few "No's" when it comes to selecting ingredients for home cooking. Veterinary Surgeons would tend to advise against the following foodstuffs, or at least to be wary of feeding large quantities:

Mushrooms: best avoided as some dogs will not tolerate mushrooms well and they can cause serious toxicity.

Chocolate: Chocolate contains theobromine. Theobromine is a similar compound to caffeine and stimulates the heart and nervous system. In dogs it can poison them with death occurring from heart failure. Cats may not metabolise chocolate in the same way as dogs but are also thought to be at risk.

Onions (and garlic) OK in small quantities, but be careful. Can cause blood problems including anaemia.

Cows milk: Cats and dogs along with most other mammals lose, to a variable extent, their ability to digest lactose (milk sugar) with age, because the activity of the enzyme lactase declines with age

Macadamia nuts: The toxic compound is unknown but the affect of macadamia nuts is to cause locomotory difficulties. Dogs develop a tremor of the skeletal muscles, and weakness or paralysis of the hindquarters. Affected dogs are often unable to rise and are distressed, usually panting. Some affected dogs have swollen limbs and show pain when the limbs are manipulated.

Tomatoes: a small amount of ripe tomato is unlikely to cause any problems, but green tomatoes can cause stomach upsets so it's best to avoid them.

Grapes: The ASCPA (Animal Poison Control Centre in the USA) has recently published information stating the toxicity of raisins and grapes in dogs (they do not know how they affect cats yet, but advise to avoid feeding them anyway). Eating just a handful of raisins and grapes has been shown to cause kidney failure.

Fatty foods: Very fatty foods may lead to problems such as pancreatitis. The pancreas releases enzymes to help digest the food. Pancreatitis is a very painful inflammatory condition associated with the ingestion of fatty foods.

You need to be aware that there has always been a voice out there arguing that home cooking is not the best way of feeding. Here is a quote from the Canadian Veterinarian Association pamphlet on pet food, 'A Commonsense Guide to Feeding Your Dog or Cat:'

"Why Are Homemade Diets Not Recommended? Homemade diets are not recommended because there is a good chance that all the necessary nutrients or the proper proportions will not be provided. Incorrect preparation and cooking may also deplete certain nutrients and result in a deficient diet. As well, homemade diets are usually more expensive to produce, without providing better nutrition."

Protected Cat or Dog Yard - Build Your Pets Their Own Enclosed Outside Turf

2008-02-14T01:48:00.001-08:00

Would your pet cat or dog like being outside some of the time? Would you prefer they were safely enclosed while enjoying the fresh air, plant life, and scents of nature? You can easily create a protected outdoor haven for your pets, while insuring your own peace of mind. This article will tell you how to plan and build a private protected pet yard from start to finish. Sections include choosing location, size, roof cover, furnishings, supplies, and construction of the enclosure.

LOCATION

Begin by choosing the best spot for your pet's private bit of nature. Consider an existing patio or corner of your traditional yard. In our own case, my husband and I built our cats' yard over a partially covered patio located next to the back of the house. The end result provided protection on rainy days as well as a lattice-roofed section open to the sky. You might also consider adding a pet door leading to your home. Pets really like the freedom of going "outside" whenever in the mood. Our cats enjoy middle of the night watches for roaming wildlife such as raccoons and possums - all from the safety of their own protected yard!

SIZE

Determine how large of an area is practical for you to enclose. Take your pets' size and needs into consideration. While your cats or dogs won't be able to romp as freely as those on the loose, they will enjoy having enough space to prowl around their own little yard. In our case, an enclosure of 14' x 16' provided enough room for many hours of cat snooping enjoyment plus space for batting twigs, hunting insects and other fun.

ROOF COVER

If your enclosure will be for cats, you will definitely want to cover it with a lattice roof. This will keep your pets inside their private yard where you want them, and other wandering animals out. An enclosure built for small dogs, on the other hand, might not require roofing.

FURNISHINGS

All kinds of natural and other furnishings of your pet's private yard will enhance their enjoyment. Including a section of lawn is good, or adding pots of grasses and nibbling greens. Flowerbeds and plants provide necessary bathroom spaces. Other ideas are pet beds, outdoor chairs or survey perches. Toys are fun for pets outside as well as inside, and there will be a steady stream of crawling bugs and flying insects provided by nature to observe.

SUPPLIES

You will need the following supplies to build your pet enclosure:

Vertical wood supports - 4x4s work will
Vinyl or wood lattice panels - 4'x8's work well
Small trim board - 1x2 works well
Wood support boards for roof - 2x__ rafters
Cap board - 2x4
Pre-made gate or one constructed from the same materials as the enclosure

CONSTRUCTION

Follow these steps to build your protected pet yard:

1. Put up vertical supports, determining spacing distance by width of lattice panels

2. Place lattice trim boards between 4x4 supports

3. Put up lattice panels against trim boards, and sandwich in with additional trim boards

4. Continue building process until enclosure is complete

5. Add gate

6. Run a cap across top of 4x4s

7. Attach 2x__ rafters 24" apart to cap board and to house or other side if free standing

8. Attach lattice or other roofing material to top of enclosure

Once construction is complete, introduce your pet cats or dogs to their new private yard. They will soon be enjoying their own outdoor turf, and you the protection that it provides.

Brain Tumors in Dogs and Cats

2008-02-14T01:46:00.000-08:00

Though relatively uncommon, a brain tumor has always made a grim prognosis for unfortunate animal that is diagnosed with one. Traditionally they were often assumed but seldom confirmed, but since MRI and CT scanning has become more mainstream they can be diagnosed correctly. Here we discuss the different types of brain tumor that affect dogs and cats, the clinical investigations that can be performed, the treatments available and the likely outcomes.

Brain tumors seem to be more common in dogs than cats, and certain breeds are over represented such as Boxers, Golden Retrievers, Dobermans, Scottish Terriers and Old English Sheepdogs.

Primary vs Secondary

Brain tumors can be primary or secondary (metastasis from other sites). Primary brain tumors are usually solitary, the most common ones in the dog being gliomas and meningiomas. In cats, the most common type are meningiomas and these can occur at multiple locations.

Secondary tumors in dogs include extension of a nasal tumor, metastases from breast, lung or prostate cancer, hemangiosarcoma or extension of a pituitary gland tumor. Nerve sheath tumors and skull tumors have also been reported. Secondary tumors in cats include pituitary gland tumors, metastatic carcinomas, local extension of nasal tumors, skull tumors and middle ear cavity tumors.

What causes a brain tumor?

The cause of brain tumors is not known. Diet, environment, chemical, genetic, viral, immunologic and trauma have all been considered. In cats with meningiomas, because they often occur in very young animals, a genetic element is suspected.

Benign vs Malignant

The terms benign and malignant must be used with care when referring to brain tumors. Normally these terms apply to various characteristics on a cellular level, but on a biological level, even benign brain tumors can kill the animal due to the secondary effects like increased intracranial pressure or cerebral edema. In short, any brain tumor can kill.

What are the symptoms?

There can be huge variety here. Many animals will present with vague signs, such as one or several of the following:

1. Loss of trained habits

2. Decreased levels of activity

3. Decreased frequency of purring in cats

4. Disorientation

5. Confusion More specific symptoms are dependent upon where exactly the tumor is located within the brain, the size of the tumor and how quickly it is growing. As a tumor enlarges, symptoms tend to become more severe. These can include:

6. Seizures (often indicate a tumor in the cerebral cortex)

7. Facial paralysis (may indicate a brainstem tumor)

8. Tremors (may indicate a tumor in the cerebellum)

9. Wobbliness (may indicate a tumor in the cerebellum)

10. Full or partial blindness (may indicate tumor in hypothalamus or optic nerve)

11. Loss of smell (may indicate tumor of olfactory system)

The physical presence of the tumor can cause knock on effects due to inflammation and edema of the surrounding area. This can cause symptoms such as:

12. Changes in behaviour or temperament (irritability, lethargy)

13. Compulsive walking

14. Circling

15. Pressing head against a wall or hard surface

Animals can sometimes carry brain tumors for several years before presenting to a veterinary clinic, if the tumor is slow growing. In these cases the symptoms develop gradually, and the owner tends to get used to them so that by the time the animal is examined, the tumor has reached a considerable size.

How is a brain tumor diagnosed?

History and Clinical Examination

The first step for a veterinarian is to take a thorough history of all of the clinical signs, and when they developed. This is followed by a full general clinical examination and a full neurological examination.

Bloods

After that, blood should be taken for routine haematology and biochemistry profiles. This is to look for any disease outside the brain. Results will be normal for brain tumors, with the possible exception of some pituitary gland tumors.

Radiography

Plain skull radiographs (xrays) under general anesthetic have little value in detecting a brain tumor, but they can be useful if there is a tumor in the nasal cavities or the middle ear which could extend into the skull. On rare occasions, they can identify bony changes in the skull which can accompany a brain tumor, or mineralization within the tumor itself. Radiographs and ultrasound of the chest and abdomen are useful to look for a tumor elsewhere in the body, in cases where the brain tumor is a secondary metastasis.

MRI and CT Scans

Confirmation of a brain tumor can is usually only achieved using the advanced imaging techniques, CT scans or MRI. Both of these have pros and cons when compared to one another. CT is better for bony changes, while MRI is better for soft tissue definition, for the detection of many of the knock on effects of brain tumors such as edema, cysts and bleeding. MRI is the preferred option for diagnosing primary brain tumors.

Biopsy

This is the only way to definitively diagnose a brain tumor. The advanced imaging techniques above offer much information, but they can occasionally confuse a tumor with a non cancerous mass or a cyst, and they also do not tell us the exact type of tumor present, and therefore the appropriate treatment and prognosis. The best type of biopsy is the CT guided stereotactic brain biopsy system, which is rapid, accurate and quite safe. Since exploratory surgery is high risk, it is not usually attempted unless there is a reasonable chance of removing the whole tumor with minimal collateral damage. Many brain tumors in cats and dogs are not categorized on a cellular level until post mortem.

Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Analysis

CSF analysis is useful for ruling out inflammatory causes of the symptoms, but tumor cells are rarely identified here. Increased levels of white blood cells and increased protein levels may be present in the CSF with many brain tumors, though this is not diagnostic. This test can be high risk when intracranial pressure is increased, as brain herniation can occur.

Treatment

Treatment is aimed at being either curative or palliative. Curative treatment eradicates the tumor or reduces its size, whilst palliative therapy reduces the surrounding cerebral edema and slows down the growth of the tumor. Palliative therapy also involves administering antiepileptic drugs, if seizures are occurring as a result of the tumor.

Surgery

Whether this is an option depends on the general health of the animal, and the precise location, size, extent, invasiveness and nature of the tumor. Tumors such as meningiomas in cats can be removed successfully by surgery. However, surgery to remove tumors in certain locations such as the brainstem can be extremely dangerous, possibly resulting in death. Even partial removal can benefit the animal though, particularly if the tumor is slow growing.

Radiotherapy

This is probably the most widely used form of treatment for brain tumors. Radiation therapy can be used alone or in combination with other treatments. It is also useful in the treatment of secondary brain tumors. The aim is to destroy the tumor without harming the normal tissue too much.

Chemotherapy

The main problem with chemotherapy for brain tumors is that many drugs do not cross the blood brain barrier. In addition, the tumor may only be sensitive to high doses, doses which are toxic to normal brain tissue and therefore unsuitable for use. However, several drugs have been used for this purpose that can cross the blood brain barrier with reported success, including cytosine arabinoside, lomustine and carmustine.

Probable Outcome

Studies of animals that receive palliative treatment (corticosteroids) for brain tumors show a survival range post diagnosis of 64 to 307 days. This demonstrates the inability to accurately predict life expectancy in these cases. What is certain is that the survival times significantly increase with surgery, radiotherapy or chemotherapy. Radiation therapy seems to offer the best results, alone or in combination with other treatments. Generally, the more severe the symptoms, the shorter the life expectancy.

History of Domestic Pets

2008-02-13T02:26:00.001-08:00

Pets have been around since the beginning of time. Cats are among the first to be domesticated. They were thought to be domesticated from the African wild cat. The cat is a predator and very intelligent. They supposedly hunt over 1,000 species. Cats have been domestic pets since Ancient Egypt times. They were around in circa 4000 b.c. and their job was keeping mice and rats away. Although this was what they were initially kept for, cats are trainable and obey simple commands, so after a while they became a companion.

The dog was domesticated from Wolves as recent as 15,000 years ago or possibly as early as 100,000 years ago. Domestication is the way we as humans biologically altered a mammal to live in our company. The dog was thought to have been from East Asia. The early settlers brought domestic dogs over to North America with them. The first were the Chow, Shar Pei, Akita Inu, Shiba Inu and the Basenji. These breeds are associated with China, which seems to be behind the theory of domestic dogs originating in East Asia. Dogs are very social animals, which is probably why we brought them into our households. They are trainable, playful and lovable. Most dogs are “pack” oriented. They treat the human owner as one of their pack or as their pack leader as they would another dog. Dogs were initially used for work and protection and then in time became more like a part of the family.

There is really only a small number of animals we would actually consider pets. The first were dogs, cats and birds. Pets have over the years been known for several things. Even though we do not know the exact original origin of domesticated animals, we do know the reasons for humans need for them. The reasons people have these domestic animals are far and wide. Health is huge one. Studies say that people live longer healthier lives when they have a pet as a companion. Loneliness is another one. Pets are affectionate loving creatures that cure loneliness for many people. Dogs especially have taken an amazing role in leading the blind. Dogs are trained to protect and lead a blind person in everyday life.

Regardless of your reason for owning a pet, it is clear that pets serve a distinct function in human day-to-day life. It is also clear that pets are here to stay whether you are a dog lover, a cat lover or use pets for other recreational events such as equestrian activities or hunting we know that you love and care for your pets.

Safe Traveling For Your Dog, Cat or Bird

2008-02-13T02:25:00.000-08:00

Every pet owner is faced with the prospect of having to travel with their dog, cat or bird at some point. Whether it is a few days or a few weeks, there are steps and products you can employ to make this a comfortable - if not fun - time for your pet!

When traveling, the most important thing to do is to take frequent breaks. Always buckle your pet in with a harness if you are not using a crate while driving. The safest and most comfortable place for your pet during car travel is in the back seat. When you have your pet in the back seat, always have some sort of bar barrier between the front and back seat -such as the 10 Bar Euro Auto Pet Barrier - or use a hammock-style barrier. This keeps your pet out of the way when you're driving.

A great option for keeping your pet occupied during travel is some sort of cushioned booster seat, which are available for dogs up to 30 lbs. These booster seats are calming for animals that stress easily during travel. Your dog or cat will be able to watch the surroundings, and be cushioned for comfort. Some great booster seats are the Lookout I or II. An option for cat traveling is the Kittywalk Cozy Cabin. All have a seat belt harness for added safety.

Traveling with a bird can sometimes prove precarious. The best way to prepare your feathered friend is to acclimate your bird to a travel cage a few weeks prior to actually traveling. If you are using a crate, and your bird is calm around it, you can acclimate them to the crate. We recommend a travel cage when traveling by car. It allows your bird to look out and see you at the same time. This will provide comfort to your bird during the stress of travel. Some birds actually end up enjoying traveling - they get to look out the car window and see a whole new collection of sights!

Another thing to remember while traveling with your bird is environmental control. NEVER leave any animal in a car without environment control, regardless of the weather outside.

Unfortunately, when traveling with exotic birds such as parrots, theft is common. Never leave your windows rolled down or your doors unlocked when you have to leave a bird in your car. Get a few duplicate car keys and wear one around your neck while traveling. If you make a pit stop and you have to leave your car out of your sight with your bird inside, lock the doors with the car still running (for environmental control), and use your extra key to open the door when you get back. Only be gone for a minute or two at the most, and always cover your bird when you leave him behind in your car to deter theft.

The Bird Watchers' Ethical Code

2008-02-12T02:00:00.000-08:00

If you're not a professional bird watcher or tour guide then there are a few things that you need to know before venturing out to start your new hobby. Believe it or not, you can't just do what you like, where you like and there is a strict code of ethics, even for amateur bird watchers.

Right to Roam

In Britain nowadays, it would seem that the rights of many landowners have been eroded and that ramblers can go wherever they please. However, this isn't always the case and it is, in any case, a common courtesy to seek the approval of the owner before you go trampling all over this property. If the landowner requests that you do not go through certain areas, then do observe his wishes and likewise if he asks that you keep to the edge of fields, etc. then do so. If, while bird watching on private property, your target bird moves off into forbidden territory, you'll just have to let him go. Don't think that because you've seen a rare bird, the landowners wishes can be ignored.

In addition, just treat the landowner's property as you would wish your own to be treated; don't drop litter, don't be noisy and Use your common sense to guide you when bird watching on private property: don't litter, don't make any noise and don't do any damage.

Care for the Environment

When you pack your rucksack to go out bird watching, be sure to include a plastic bag or two so that you can bring your rubbish home with you. Never, never drop litter out in the countryside (or anywhere else for that matter) irrespective of whether others have done so before you; you don't have to follow their bad example.

Care for the Birds

Never do anything which can have an adverse effect on the birds themselves. They didn't ask for you to be watching them and they have the right to carry on their lives undisturbed, so always check with yourself whether anything you're doing could be upsetting the birds.

Photographing Birds

Don't get too close to the birds when you're photographing them, particularly if you're using a flash as this could be very frightening for the birds and may interrupt their normal routines. Use a camera with a zoom lens with a decent magnification and if it's very large, you'll need a tripod too to prevent camera shake.

Parking Your Car

When you go bird watching, remember that you may be gone for some time so be thoughtful about where you park your vehicle. Never block gates or paths or indeed, any form of entrance.

Your Mobile Phone

It's essential to take your mobile with you, in case of accidents or incidents while out bird watching. In addition, the owner of the land you're using may need to get hold of you but do make sure that the 'phone is set to silent mode with the vibrate feature on.

Choosing a Cat Bed

2008-02-12T01:59:00.000-08:00

You have a bed of your own, so why shouldn't your cat? It's true to say that if you buy a bed or even several beds for your cat, he will probably still use your three piece suite, your own bed or indeed anywhere he wants, but you'll feel better able to move him on if he has his own special place to sleep.

There are all sorts of cat beds, ranging from the very basic to the positively opulent. You can try to fit one in with your décor but frankly, unless your wallpaper has colourful mice or paw prints all over it, you are probably on a loser there! The best you can hope for really is a colour that doesn't actually clash with that of the room that the bed will be kept in. However, you should really be more concerned about how the bed will be for your cat.

Some of these cat beds are similar to dog beds but smaller, i.e. an oval foam filled cotton cover with a fairly rigid base and sides with a lowered part of the side for the cat to walk in (as if they couldn't jump over the sides anyway). These can be good as there is usually room for a bit of fleece or blanket inside, which is not only cozy for the cat, but keeps the cover of the bed a bit cleaner that it might otherwise be.

Another foam filled type of cat bed is similar to that described above but a little more like a traditional dog kennel in shape being completely covered over with a door shape for entry. Cats have a nesting instinct so some like this arrangement. Equally, if there are other animals or small children in the house, your cat may feel more secure with his own little "house" to retire to for peace and quiet. These beds can actually be heated but unless your cat is very old, this really shouldn't be necessary.

Most cats moult on and off throughout the year, so some sort of mat or blanket to put on their favourite chair can be useful. You can whip it off and hide it if visitors come and the furniture shouldn't be too hairy.

If your cat is a real heat junky, you can buy a sheepskin hammock type arrangement, which you can hang on a radiator. However, this won't be suitable for an old cat as agility is the key when getting in and out of these things.

Cats often like bean bags. This are an inner lining filled with small polystyrene balls with an outer cover that can be removed for washing. Placed in a corner or other warm spot, your cat will soon get to like this arrangement.

Unless you introduce your chosen cat bed into the house when your cat is very small, your cat will probably pay it no attention at all for some time. If he ignores it completely, try picking him up and putting him on the bed while you stroke him for a while. If this approach fails, try inducing him with catnip toys or treats. Make sure that the bed isn't in a thoroughfare and is somewhere away from draughts, maybe raised a short way off the floor.

If you have more than one cat, make sure that each one has its own bed. If they choose to swap around between themselves, then that's their business, but never expect them to share a bed, although they may want to, particularly sibling kittens.

If you want to make the cat bed multi-functional, buy one of those beds cum activity centres with a scratching post but be sure that you have plenty of room for it!