Cat Health

poopsie391963 asked:


I am trying to find a good website for answers to my cats health problem. Can anyone suggest a good one?
Thanks,

Jonathan

David P Lee asked:


Cats are very interesting animals. They have certain behavioral habits which, although confusing to their owners, have explanatory reasons. One such act is purring. People wonder why their pets purr - does it just mean they are happy or is there more to it than that?

Why do cats purr

Cats communication using purring. A kitten and its mother will purr as a sign of comfort and, after this, the kitten will continue the behavior through its life. Cats usually purr when something pleases them or when they feel safe and comfortable. It is known also that an anxious cat or one at death’s door might purr too, obviously for different reasons.

Purring is interesting because no one is really sure how the cat’s body produces the sound. It might be because of blood moving through the blood vessels. It might be because of soft palate vibrations. Cat purring has been tested electromyographically, to show the electrical activity in the muscles of the cat. This could indicate that purring is caused when the muscles of the larynx, containing the vocal chords, are activated. the larynx partially closing, or glottis, could be responsible for the purring sounds.

Face rubbing

Cats rub their chins, cheeks and bodies on everything. It might feel good to them but that is not the primary reason for this behavior. Cats have scent glands located on their lips, chins, mouths and foreheads. They might rub against their owner as a form of greeting or when trying to communicate something, such as a request for food. Cats in a group will rub against one another to swap their scents. Cats together have a ‘colony scent’ which is useful for detecting intruders. If you bring a cat back from the veterinarian, the other cats in the colony might growl or hiss because of the unfamiliar scents on the returned cat. Cats recognize one another largely through their heightened sense of smell.

Why does my cat scratch things?

Cats like to scratch (or ’strop’) all sorts of things. Obviously you would prefer your cat to scratch a tree or its scratching post rather than your best sofa. A cat deprived of a tree or scratching post will strop its claws on whatever it can. Scratching gets rid of loose nail sheath parts which cover the growing claws. Cats also have scent glands located in their paws and the act of scratching will leave the cat’s scent on whatever they scratch, to mark it as part of the cat’s territory. If a cat is declawed, it will still try to scratch at things, even though they have no claws to sharpen. This could be inbuilt habit or maybe the cat wants to leave its scent on the thing it is scratching. Cat furniture gives your cat a personal item to scratch on while saving your favorite furniture.

Why does my cat knead things?

Cats often knead your lap before they will lie down. In fact, they often knead any surface they plan to lie down on. Kneading is when a cat extends the claws on its front two paws and digs them into the surface which an alternating rhythmic motion. Kneading (also known as milk tread) is first used in kittenhood. When a kitten is sucking at its mother’s teats, it extends its legs and kneads the area around the teat. This makes the milk flow out faster. Perhaps as adults, a cat continues this behavior because it feels happy and safe and associates the comfort and joy of lying on your lap with the happiness he shared with his mother. Kneading can also be a sign of good cat health .



Ana

Martin Marks asked:


Cats have a dry skin just like humans. The fur on their body protects them from exposure to elements such as dirt. For pet cats that have dry skin, it is advisable to use moisturizing or soap-free products. Cats normally develop skin problems such as Seborrhea. The best way to treat this disorder is to use medicated shampoo.

Sensory Organs:

Cats have the great qualities. They are better than human beings in seeing things and hearing sounds around them. They smell and feel the nature very well. Due to these abilities, cats were often mistaken to possess black magic. The current era does not suspect cats of having an influence over the supernatural powers. It is necessary to know cats’ sense, which may help in understanding their behavior much better.

1. Sight: Cats have a good night vision. Where there is no enough light, cats see much better than humans. However, they are not able see in complete darkness. This ability comes at the cost of daytime vision, which is beneficial for nocturnal predators. Actually, cats fail to see distant objects at daytime. People know little about the colors that cats see visibly. Science says that, they can identify some of the colors than humans do. With their eyes, cats detect faster movement of things in their surroundings. On the other hand, it is hard for them to pay attention on slow moving objects.

2. Sound: Cats have very sharp ears. Even when fast asleep, cats trace the noisy sounds of small rodents. Their ability to hear sounds is three times as high as that of human beings. Cats move their large ears sideways to capture the sound more accurately. For this, they first locate the place from where the sound actually comes. While chasing the target, they sometimes pause to listen and determine the location of their prey.

3. Smell: Cats largely depend on their sense of smell. They always sniff their food before eating. Smelling things is the essential part of feline communication. There is a mechanism at the top of their mouth, which makes possible for them to analyze smell. With the help of this mechanism, cats twist their lips, open their mouth, and express disgust over certain things.

4. Taste: Cats use this sense to decide the foods good for them. They are truly carnivores. As such, their sense of taste best lies in recognizing fat and protein. Unlike dogs, cats prefer to stay away from sweets. In addition, cats do not respond well to the taste of salt. Experts suggest the reason behind this as, cats get enough salt from the meat food.

5. Touch: Cats have touch receptors all over their body. These receptors are nerve cells that transfer sensations of pain, pressure and temperature from any point to the brain. The nerve cells are concentrated mainly on their front paws and face. The hair, covering body of cats, help them to stay alert even on the slightest touch of air passing by.



Felix

Sarah asked:


am not allergic to cat fur, if thr is any other problems can be created? other thn allergic reactions?

Eva

The Curse of Curves asked:


My cat has a heart murmer and he is getting older. I don’t want to loose him so how should I keep him EXTRA healthy?

Annie

David P Lee asked:


Cats are curious by nature. Everyone has heard “Curiosity killed the cat.” Well this can become a true a true statement if you are not careful. The following are a few ways to make sure your home is safe for your cat:

1. First of all, if your cat has a flea problem, before using any product on the market for fleas contact your veterinarian and find out what they recommend. Using products meant for other animals such as dogs is not a good idea. That is why they make separate products. If the flea infestation has spread past the cat to the house and you either purchase a product to get rid of fleas or have someone come in to spray, you should find somewhere else for your cat to stay until it is safe to return. Breathing fumes from these products in a closed up house can be very harmful.

2. It is recommended for your cat’s safety to keep them inside. If you are a plant lover be careful of what plants your cat can come in contact with. Several varieties of plants can be lethal to cats. Easter lilies are one. Oleander is another. DO NOT allow cats to chew on the leaves of these plants. If your cat does go outside, be aware that azaleas are another plant that can be harmful to cats. That is one of the reasons for recommending that your cat should stay inside where you can monitor what he has access to.

3. Mouse Traps and Bait

When using these items, take particular care to place the items where your cat does not have access, such areas may include in cabinets and under sinks. However, if your cat has mastered the art of opening the cabinet doors, you may consider the use of child safety locks for the cabinet doors, thereby keeping the cat from gaining access.

4. If your cat doesn’t seem to be feeling well, call your veterinarian or take him to see the vet. Never try to medicate the cat yourself. Medicines for humans are not meant to be used on cats. One such medicine is acetaminophen. One maximum strength tablet (500 mg) can be fatal to a cat weighing 7 lbs.

5. Just as with the acetaminophen, other drugs can be fatal to your cat. Keep all medicines in your bathroom medicine cabinet. This includes all your prescription medicines and anything that your cat may have access to. As previously said, cats are curious, and they will get into things they shouldn’t. Medicines you take on a daily basis or over the counter drugs that you keep in your home can all have toxic affects on cats.

6. Chocolate

Theobromine is a diuretic as well as a heart stimulant, found in chocolate. Humans have the ability to eliminate theobromine from their systems quickly, however a cat cannot. For this reason chocolate can be lethal to a cat.

7. While it is best for your cat to be inside, if he does go out with or without you, keep all chemicals such as antifreeze away from areas the cat has access to. Gasoline for your lawnmower, oil, or windshield washer should all be kept in your garage or storage building away from animals.

8. Lawn Products

Chemicals in lawn products are also toxic to a cat, such as fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides. A cat should not have access to any area treated by chemicals until the chemicals are safely dry. Take particular care to close all containers tightly and store them out of reach.

9. Miscellaneous Items

Since a cat is so very curious and playful, they may be exposed harmful items, such as pennies. A penny contains zinc, and is harmful to your pet. The levels of iron are high in items such as foot and hand warmers. Other items, which might cause sickness or death for a cat, include alcoholic drinks, batteries, play dough, dryer sheets, cigarettes and mothballs. Many more items can be lethal to your cat. Keep anything away from your cat that you would keep away from a child.

10. Household Cleaners

These same rules apply to household cleaners as well. Cats should not be in an area, which is undergoing cleaning procedures. Put away your supplies before giving the cat access to any room where you have been working. Chemicals found in household cleaners can burn the mouth or stomach of a cat when ingested. Although, most cats in general would not consume household cleaners, it is best to take these precautions.



Ariana

Liz Allan asked:


The last few years have seen a huge shift towards disease prevention in humans. Keep fit, eat sensibly, get regular check-ups etc. etc. and you’ll be healthier and less at risk from disease.

Exactly the same is true for cat health. Taking a few simple steps to keep your kitty fit and well can help minimize vet visits and potentially save you a load of money and stress.

Here’s a suggested cat health timetable to help keep your adult cat in tip-top shape:

Once a year:

Take him to the vet for a general cat health check and for vaccinations against the potentially fatal cat flu and feline infectious enteritis. Depending on where you live and your circumstances, your cat may also need yearly vaccines against other diseases.

Every three months:

Worm him against roundworms (your vet should give you tablets for this at Kitty’s yearly check-up). Worms can cause damage to the cat’s intestine, liver and lungs if they really take hold.

Monthly:

Use a flea treatment. Cat fleas can cause severe skin irritation and they sometimes carry nasty diseases. Many good flea treatments are also effective against other parasites.

Weekly:

Groom your cat thoroughly. This reduces the risk of hairballs, which can cause vomiting, constipation and discomfort. In severe cases they may need surgical removal. Note:If your cat is long haired, or if he sheds a lot of hair, you should groom him daily.

Daily:

Play with your cat. This keeps him fit, stimulates him and helps to prevent stress.

Twice a day:

Feed him good quality food to keep him healthy and help him fight diseases.

Clean his litter box. Many cats won’t use a dirty litter box, so they’ll either pee elsewhere (e.g. on the carpet) or won’t pee at all until the box is cleaned. This can cause urine stagnation and infection.

Overnight:

Keep Kitty indoors. Cats are at much greater risk of getting injured, killed, lost or stolen when it’s dark.

All the time:

Ensure your cat has a constant supply of fresh water to drink.

Make your home safe for your cat. Keep poisonous chemicals and houseplants out of his reach. Check he’s not stuck or locked in somewhere. Make sure he’s not sitting in the washing machine or under the car before you use them etc.

Some cat health problems are unavoidable, but by taking these preventative measures, you should be able to increase your cat’s chances of staying healthy and happy.



Cierra

Carol Osborne asked:


How Much Playtime Do Cats Need? Cats needs at least 10-15 minutes of exercise three to four times a day. The exact amount varies with age, breed, health and physical condition.

Indoor cats need to play 3 to 4 times as much as outdoor cats to satisfy their needs for exercise. One hour of playful exercise increases your cat’s lifespan by 4 hours.

TIP: If your cat is neutered he is twice as likely to get chubby, so decrease his calories by one third and play more. Be creative think up games that stimulate your cat’s natural instincts.

Exercise Is Fun With Felines!

Exercise is integral to life. Not only is it essential for optimal health, it also improves circulation, stimulates vital organs, facilitates digestion and helps eliminate harmful toxins from the body. Exercise provides aerobic activity that stimulates your cat mentally and physically. Playful exercise is fun too. The more you play with your cat the more trusting and alert he’ll become. It is a great way to bond, and it is as good for you as it is for your cat. Most owners end up looking forward to this “special time” as much as their cats do.

Cats have different types of personalities, just like people. Figure out what kind of cat you have-shy, curious, sedate or wild. Adapt the type of play you choose to the personality of your cat.

Cat nip is a perfectly safe herb that many cats enjoy. Once a week, sprinkle the fresh herb on the floor or on a couple favorite toys. Cats generally play, roll and frolic. Your cat will have fun and so will you.

Exercise Goals

Exercise promotes confidence, self-esteem and well being. If you make the commitment to eat right and playfully exercise at least 10 minutes four times a day, you and your cat will look good and feel great! Exercise enhances your health, your looks and your life.

If you and your cat can’t exercise, feline massage is an alternative. It’s therapeutic and stimulates vital tissues. It’s also fun and feels great.

Cats love a ritual-especially before a good meal. Set play sessions for the same time each day and soon your cat will be there eagerly waiting for you.

The love you bestow on your cat and the relationship you share will become a source of continued happiness in your life.

TOYS

Toys provide a positive outlet for cats of all ages. Many are educational, some are interactive, and others are just plain fun. In additional to physical benefits,

they stimulate cats mentally; help prevent boredom, destruction and anxiety. Some toys are also a form of exercise like laser mice and many can be stuffed or rubbed with treats like catnip. Get a variety of toys and rotate them every few days.

GREAT SAFE CAT TOYS:

* Crumpled Paper Balls

* Peacock Feathers

* Empty Paper Bags

* Card Board Boxes

* Pieces of real fur (2 cm X 5 cm)

* Pinecones

* Ping Pong Balls

* A pile of shredded paper

* Empty 35MM film containers (or filled 1/3 with raw lentils)

* The occasional full toilet paper roll (for shredding)

Anything dangling from a fishing line makes a good toy:

Frozen green beans, Walnut shells, Sea-shells,

Plastic lids from bottled water, Leaves at the top of a Celery Stalk, Pipe Cleaners twisted up like Butterflies

TOYS

Cats judge toys based on their size, texture, sound and smell. Small, light weight items like crocheted mice, fish and birds especially with unpredictable, erratic movements are favorites for many felines.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

CREATE INTERACTIVE GAMES FOR YOUR CAT:

Kitty Hockey: throw a couple plastic rings from a milk jug on a smooth floor — your feline will fly for the puck

Create snakelike toys: then sneak & slither them over chairs and up & down stairs

Make a kitty racquetball court: put a ping pong ball in a small box and cut a small paw sized hole in one end

Create a feline obstacle course: place several boxes upside down or paper bags on their side and cut holes in each to enter & exit

Improve balance & coordination with a multi-leveled cat tree: entice your cat to jump from 1 perch to the next during interactive play sessions

Encourage scratching and stretching with a few sturdy scratching posts covered with hemp or the rough backing of a piece of carpet

INTERACTIVE GAMES

Wiggle a fishing line with feathers on one end over

perches, playgrounds and obstacle courses to get your cat to stretch and keep his muscles toned

FACT: Play is soothing to the soul-yours and your cats.



Alex

Ken Charnely asked:


This article seeks to give you a solid knowledge base regarding the subject matter, no matter what your previous experience on the topic. Cats are wonderful animals! It is remarkable how well these animals have adapted to domesticity. It has been estimated that they have been living in close contact with human beings for approximately 3,500 years.

Not only are they good for pets, but they are also very useful to humans. The ancient Egyptians took care of them to get rid of the mice in their homes. No wonder there have been hundreds and hundreds of books written that are devoted to the subject of these animals. Most of these books have to do with cat training.

Since cats are predatory creatures by instinct; they still exhibit some behaviors that are best suited in the wilderness. This sometimes becomes a problem for people who have cats living in their households. That is why there are a lot of training books that have been written to address various issues concerning cat training.

Different types of training books:

There are various different types of training books that are available in the market. Some deal with the issue of cats’ health and their behavior. Some are reference books written by veterinarians. They offer insights and tips on how to properly take care of cats. These types of books can be used as a resource by owners when training their cats. While other cat training books are categorized according to breed, some give those readers who are seeking to gain more knowledge on a specific breed of cats more extensive, and helpful information.

Where to get these books:

These books can be purchased in local bookstores. They can even be borrowed in libraries. But the most convenient place to get them would be online. There’s a wide range of cat training books to choose from in the internet. Rates and reviews of these books are also available. This gives the buyer some insight about the book, helping them decide and pick out exactly the type of cat training book they are looking for.

Who buys these books?

Books on how to train cats are perfect for first time cat owners. These books will offer them the much needed information they need in order to take care of their cats. A lot of cat lovers also have a collection of cat books. Ranging in topics from breed books, photography, fiction, cat care, training, nutrition, etc.

Cat training books are a perfect companion for any cat owner. Every cat owner should at least have one on their book shelf.

Here are some of the best-selling and truly amazing cat training books that can have one’s pet cat do more than meowing and scratching:

1. “Guide to Well-Behaved Cat: A Sound Approach to Cat Training” The book says it all. It aims to train the cat to behave. Written by Phil Maggiti, this book is packed with rich information and divided into four parts. The first chapter tackles the cat’s evolution, while the second is all about its domestication. Design and function of an ordinary cat is discussed in chapter three, while chapter four talks about human-pet relationship topics such as why does a kitty disobey the owner when it is called?

2. “Understanding or Training Your Cat or Kitten”

This acclaimed book is from H. Ellen Whiteley, a veterinarian who understands cats more than an average person does. This book contains 292 pages of important information that can truly make you understand, train and appreciate one’s pet cat.

3. “Handbook of Behavior Problems of the Dog and Cat”

This book is a collaboration of Gary M. Landsberg, W. Hunthausen and L. Ackerman. Published by Elvesier Health Sciences, this is one of the most reputable books in cat training. Okay, so it is dual purpose - it is about cats and dogs, but it doesn’t matter. It is as informative as any other cat training book out there.

From discussing kitten development to suggesting therapy for behavior and diet-related problems, from approaching feline agression to finding out what the “European approach to behavior counseling” is, this book is indeed helpful.

4. “Cat Training in 10 Minutes”

The “Cat Training in 10 Minutes” is 142 pages of quirky information on how to communicate effectively with cats. Written by Miriam Fields-Banineau, a certified cat lover, this guide is easy to read and highly effective. Every cat owner can toilet-train his kitty in just a few reading sessions! It will not be long before the cat also follows the owner’s commands! The photographs in the book are very attractive as well.

Nobody says cat training is going to be easy. That’s why cat training books are available online so one can get the gist and be the best cat owner in town. We hope that you have found this article interesting and eye catching to say the least. It’s objective is to entertain and inform.



Jocelyn

starfishblues asked:


I have two cats. One was just diagnosed with a UTI. =( He’s on antibiotics. I also went and bought a bag of Purina Urinary Tract Health cat food, since I heard it’s good. I read on the website that you’re not supposed to mix it with other types of cat food. In other words, you’re only supposed to feed your cat the Purina Urinary Tract food for maximum effectiveness. So my question is, should I just put down the Purina and take up the regular food? Is it safe for me to do that?

Thanks guys! Any other tips on how to help my kitty feel better are welcome. This is his second UTI. (I think he’s stressed b/c we just moved.)

Noe