When we have only one cat and she misses the litterbox, it can be hard to fix. When we have more than one cat in the house, it can be even harder.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help stop litter box problems in a multi-cat home. first of all, act fast. A litter box problem that continues for a long time can become harder and harder to solve. Litter box mistakes can lead to territorial responses, and disturb the routines and hierarchies of your entire household.

Will Muffin still want to take her daily afternoon snooze on the couch if Tiger urinated there? She may find some other area, displacing more and more of your cats, and creating fighting and other dominance displays. If you put off solving the problem, hoping it will go away on its own, you may find it multiplying in your home.

Find the culprit. Before you even try to determine the “why,” figure out the “who.” If you catch it early enough, you can hopefully nail it down to one cat. Many people like to isolate each cat to determine which cat is causing the problem, but displacing one cat, even overnight, can sometimes lead to dominance displays in the others, as they claim undefended territory.

If you have new cats, or kittens reaching adulthood, you may want to visit the vet for help. Your veterinarian can prescribe fluoresce in for your cats, helping you to determine which urine stain(s) glow under an ultraviolet light.

Rule out a Veterinary Problem. Veterinary causes underlie many litter box problems, particularly in household with older cats or those with access to the outdoors. Urinary tract infections are one of many common causes, where the cat develops an aversion to the box as a painful place to be. Other health problems can also cause litterbox mistakes.

Worse, without visiting the veterinarian, your other cats may be at risk, which could cause the problem to multiply. No behavior techniques in the world will help a cat with a veterinary problem, so don’t skip the trip to the vet.

Observe the Behavior. If the vet rules out a health problem, I next recommend a brief observation period. It’s always very frustrating to the owner to let the cat continue his litter box mistakes, but it gives you the knowledge to attack the specific problem.

During the observation period, try to concentrate on the things in the environment that may be important to your cat, like litter boxes, food bowls, favorite places, the routines of the other cats and people in the home, etc. Start a journal where you record as much information as you can about every litterbox mistake, then look for links.

Does the cat always use the same room? Is it always on carpeting? Does it happen after meals, or at some other time of day? Are the other cats nearby? Did you have guests over? When you isolate the specific stimuli involved, it allows you greater control without making major changes in the environment that may upset the rest of the cats.

Break the Habit. Elimination sites are matters of preference, and when the cat gets into the routine of going to a certain location, you’ll need to prevent the behavior from recurring. Since the smell of declining urine is a signal for the cat to “reapply,” clean the accident site with a pet odor remover - perhaps multiple times to get past the cat’s sensitive nose.

Block off the area while the product does its work. Remote deterrents, that work whether you are around or not, will keep the cat from returning to the area whenever you aren’t standing guard. Double-sided tape or an upside-down plastic carpet runner, pointy feet up, can keep your cat from standing in the same area.

Cats also hate to be startled, so anything that can safely surprise the cat when he visits that area can help make the area less “cat-friendly.”

Make the current litter box more appealing. While you are preventing bad habits, make good habits more appealing. The litter box should be clean, have privacy, and in multi-cat homes, escapability is also important.

This simply means that the cat can see off a distance, so he won’t be ambushed in the box, or on his way there. Most cats prefer clumping, non-perfumed litter, but work with your individual cat to determine whether a box of a different size, shape, or litter would help.

Retrain the cats. If it doesn’t seem to help to address the individual factors in your journal, or your cat has never regularly used the litterbox, you may want to retrain the cat by himself.

Use this as a last resort, since removing the cat from the hierarchy may upset the routines of all the cats in the home. Keep the cat in a small, uncarpeted room, with a clean litterbox, food bowl, and toys in opposite corners. Pick up all rugs from the floor, so the only soft place to choose to eliminate will be the litterbox.

Visit the cat often, and clean the box regularly. I also recommend recording the times that the cat uses the box.

Many cats stick to a regular routine, so once you’ve determined when the cat is likely to use the box, you can let the cat out during low-risk times to maintain the hierarchy, and put him back in the room with the litter box during high risk periods. Repetition of successful use will increase the cat’s preference to the box.

General stress reduction. In some situations, it’s difficult to determine specific environmental triggers for a problem behavior. However, sometimes general stress reduction techniques will prove helpful, particularly in multi-cat homes.

For litter box problems that have arisen from territorial disputes, additional resources may reduce competition for resources.

Extra litter boxes and food bowls are always helpful, but remember that YOU are also an important resource, so give each cat as much attention as they could possibly want. Exercise can also help redirect cats energies. It can also help desensitize cats to each other, while they are praised for attacking a toy while the other cat watches.

Routines are also very important in multi-cat homes, particularly when older cats are involved. Scheduled feeding, petting and exercise periods at the same time and location every day can further reduce stress that may be contributing to the litter box problem.

Litter box problems in multi-cat homes can be difficult. However, caring responsible owners can have an advantage solving the problem with they use quick, decisive actions and apply solid behavioral techniques.

Keith Londrie
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/how-to-solve-litterbox-problems-in-multicat-homes-130584.html

Feline Health – Basic Care and Nutrition

Posted by admin on 01/03/10 in cat toys

One of the more common domesticated house pets is the cat. If you are contemplating having one for a pet, there are certain aspects that you need to be aware of before you bring one into your household, specifically basic care issues and proper nutrition. Feline companionship brings with it a variety of responsibilities but your biggest obligation to that pet is the attention and care that you give it.

One of the elements regarding the basic care of cats is the initial preparations needed before bringing the animal home. The basic items needed immediately are a litter box and litter, separate food and water bowls, a brush designed for the type of fur the cat has (i.e. long-hair or short-hair), and a carrier to bring it home in and as well as for trips to the vet. And of most importance, cat toys since they enhance the bonding process. Eventually, you may want to consider a bed or basket for them to nap and sleep in.

Once you have determined what type of cat they will be, as in strictly indoors or indoor/outdoor, then there are additional care issues to be covered. If the cat is going to be outdoors part of the time, one of the first things you should get them is a collar. It will obviously hold the catâ??s identification tag and veterinary status. Make sure that the collar has an elastic section so that if they get caught on something and start panicking that they can escape from the collar without severely choking themselves.

The tag attached to the collar should provide vital information specifically, your name, address, and phone number. Modern technology has created an identification microchip that vetâ??s can inject into the skin of a catâ??s neck. Speaking of veterinarians, that is the other most important aspect of the catâ??s health and well-being. If you want them to be around for a lot of years, every penny you spend on veterinary visits will have benefits and your pet will live a happier and healthier life that way.

Finally, unless you are looking at the cat as an investment, as in breeding them for money, once they have reached the appropriate age, get them neutered or spayed. The ideal age for this is once they are six months old. Where males are concerned, itâ??s an out-patient type surgery, pending any complications — bring them in first thing in the morning, and pick them up towards the end of the day. Females will vary, but usually the spaying is a 24 hour turnaround.

The first rule of thumb with feline nutrition is that cats are not vegetarians — they require meat in their diets so that they have a sparkle in their eyes and a glossy coat. They require certain dietary needs and animal derived nutrients are one of the main ingredients necessary to their good health. The cat food that you feed them should come from a reputable manufacturer and be given to your cat at room temperature. One important note here is that you should establish a routine as to the place and time of day that you feed your cat.

Another aspect of feeding is that there should always be fresh dry food and water for them to take advantage of throughout the day. If you include canned food in their diets, it is recommended that they receive two or three small feedings per day, not one big one. And remember that until they are out of the kitten stage, that they are constantly eating and drinking.

Another health issue is your catâ??s weight. Avoid letting them overeat. Just like with us, a cat can develop obesity and overweight issues. Arthritis, heart problems, and a shorter lifespan are issues that can result from a cat being overweight. So take care on this matter. Based on the breed, adult cats should way between 9 and 12 pounds, and the males tend to be heavier than the females. If you feel that your cat is overweight, a trip to the vet for a check-up and some questions is a good idea. Oftentimes, the weight issue is related to a hormonal problem, so it is better to be safe than sorry.

Michael D. Rosenthal
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/feline-health-basic-care-and-nutrition-683632.html

Cats and Children Does it Fit?

Posted by admin on 27/02/10 in cat toys

Cats are know to give various benefits to their owners but does this also apply to children? Yes it does providing you introduce your child to the right behavior towards pets. Cats can help to increase the wellness of your child. It is no problem to have a child with a cat but you need to make sure your child know the right behavior towards a cat. Your child doesn’t know how to treat a cat, he or she must learn it first.

It is important that your child learns to develop respect for pets and animals in general. If this is provided your child can have a lot of fun growing up with a pet cat. You can buy a a cat as a gift for your child, for example on Christmas or on his/her birthday. Such a special gift will certainly make your child happy.

When you are looking for ways on how to bring out the best between your child and the pet, this article might be helpful.

â?¢ Be aware that children do not know how to treat animals the right way, they have to learn it first. Show to your child the proper way of handling and treating cats. Make sure your child does not hurt the cat, otherwise your child will probably get hurt back by the cat. It is very important that your child knows what he or she can do with a cat and what better not to do.

â?¢ Explain to your child why a cat acts in a certain way so that he or she understands how to treat a cat. Especially when it’s your child’s first time with a pet you need to be a guide.

â?¢ If you tell your child some facts about cats he or she can better understand why a cat acts like it does. Your child will learn the important things that he or she needs to know while playing with a cat or petting a cat.

â?¢ Make sure your child does not play to rough with the cat, this could end in a hurting child and / or cat. Cats may use their paws and your child could get hurt. Show your child how to use certain cat toys rather than using his or her bare hands.

â?¢ Let your child know that cats need a lot of sleep and that they sometimes not want to be bothered.

â?¢ Remind your child the importance of not letting the cats stay inside homes. To keep their pets safe, it is a must that your child learns how to protect the cat from any untoward incident.

These are things you have to remember when having children and cats at home. Try to avoid any unwanted accidents or injuries by helping your child with the right treatment of a cat.

Guido Nussbaum
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/cats-and-children-does-it-fit-112304.html

The addition of a new kitten into your family is always a joy whether itâ??s a pre-planned or spontaneous event. But with this addition comes much responsibility and usually one of the first orders of business is taking that kitten to the vet. Typically, the first question that needs answering is â??At what age should I take my new kitten to the vet?â? In addition to dishes, food, litter boxes, and toys, make sure that you need to know when to take the kitten to the vet for its first checkup.

There really isnâ??t a hard and fast rule established for the age at which the first visit to the vet should occur, although it is often recommended that you make an appointment within 24 to 72 hours of bringing the kitten home. Sometimes, taking the kitten to the vet when you are initially heading home with the kitten is a preference. A lot of the planning will relate to the circumstances behind bringing that kitten home.

For instance, in the case of kitten rescues or an urgent adoption, it may not be possible to take the kitten to the vet immediately. However, you should make every effort to get the cat to the vet in timely fashion. Should this be the case, you should take steps to quarantine the kitten from the other cats in the house (if there are others). Typically, the bathroom is the ideal candidate for kitten quarantine headquarters. Make sure that the kitten has food and water, as well as their own litter box as well.

The purpose of the quarantine is obvious â?? it reduces the chances of spreading disease or parasites to the other cats in the house. All too often, kittens are made available for adoption too early in their little lives. If it is possible, and you know that the kitten is still with the mother in the nursing stage, wait to adopt until they are about 9 to 10 weeks of age. This allows for three important aspects to occur:

· optimal health benefits (from the nursing stage)

· socialization process (giving the kitten time to adjust to its surroundings)

· weaning time (psychological effects on both mother cat and kitten)

So, for the purposes of health, socialization, and weaning, a kitten that is 9 to 10 weeks old benefits the most. If you notice that your kitten is sneezing or apparently having other health issues, remember that their first vaccination may have to wait until he or she is healthy. Additionally, it is suggested that you take a fecal sample to the vet with you as well.

The general rule of thumb with new kittens is that they should receive their first vaccinations between the ages of 8 and 10 weeks. If the mother cat has a healthy track record and has been receiving the proper veterinary care, then the kitten has a better chance of following suit. Again, circumstances will mandate how this is handled. In certain situations, kittens wonâ??t have the luxury of the time factor if they are placed in the adoptive home. However, if the kitten is 6 weeks old or younger, take the kitten to the vet at your earliest convenience.

Michael D. Rosenthal
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/feline-health-taking-your-new-kitten-to-the-vet-685092.html

Purrfect Holiday Decorating for Pets

Posted by admin on 23/02/10 in cat toys

Crackling fires, snowflakes, colorful lights, and the anticipation of Christmas is all around.  As the excitement of the holiday draws near, and pets young and old await the arrival of Santa Paws, hereâ??s some decorating ideas to help get your pet involved in the holiday spirit.

The Treat Tree: Mix homemade dog biscuits into your tree decor.  There are some great recipes online.  Place a hole into the unbaked cookie with a straw, bake, and set to cool.  Place ribbon through the biscuit to hang on the tree. 

To make these treats interactive, attach a small label to each ribbon that lists a trick or behavior you would like your pup to perfect. Each day you can pull a treat, or allow your pup to pick, and have him complete the task before receiving the treat.

For cats, simply use a soft treat and add ornament hooks. Many cat owners express a problem keeping their cat out of their tree, if your kitty likes to use your tree as a hiding place, the treat tree may not be a good option; consider a pet tree without edibles or create a second tree as the treat tree to act as a decoy for your cat. 

The Pet Tree: In addition to homemade treats, add candy cane rawhide, embellished pet ribbon, small picture frames with your petâ??s photo, and pet related ornaments to your tree.  Finish it off with a small picket fence to keep create a barrier for your pet for the ultimate pet themed Christmas tree.

The Treat Wreath: Make a wreath out of dog treats.  Purchase a Styrofoam wreath form at your local craft store.  Simply make additional dog biscuits or purchase Milkbones at the grocery store.  Hot glue each bone to your wreath form until the entire wreath form is covered, layering and overlapping bones.  Add dog embellished ribbon and your wreath is ready to great your guests at the front door or anywhere in the home.

For cats, substitute Milkbones with small cat toys.

A Mantle to Bark About: In addition to stockings and traditional holiday décor, include your pet by adding black and white photography of your pet in a silver or gold frame.  Take a photo of your pet dressed in the holiday spirit or simply in front of your Christmas tree.  You can easily alter this photo to black and white using your computer or take it to your photo center.  Print your photos to the size of the frame and add to your holiday mantle collection.  You can also search for pet related holiday accessories at your local HomeGoods store.  Donâ??t forget to add a stocking for your pet.  Petco offers some great stocking stuffers.

Incorporating your pet into the décor can be fun for the whole family, whether you go all out in a pet themed holiday décor or simply include your pet by adding a few pet friendly embellishments.  Itâ??s the purrfect holiday reward for your perfect pet.

Darlene White
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/purrfect-holiday-decorating-for-pets-688399.html

Discount Pet Supplies From Pet Supermarket

Posted by admin on 21/02/10 in cat toys

Pet Supermarket is the online shopping place for those who really love their pets and want them to have the best pet products at a reasonable price. Pet Supermarket carries pet supplies for dogs, cats, fish, small pets and birds. They have the lowest price guaranteed and offer free delivery.

In the dog line, Pet Supermarket carries name brand food such as Eukanuba, Arden Grange, Royal Canin and Hills. They offer accessories and necessary health care products for your dog at Pet Supermarket such as Drontal Allwormer, Front Line Flea Control, Denti Bones Breath Freshening treats, and Bob Martin Denta Care Chews among many other brand name pet supplies. For skin and coat they have Johnsonâ??s Veterinary Anti-Itch Spray and other fine products for the comfort of your best friend. They have doggie toys from Boredom Breakers to Nylabone, and offer dog training aids such as Long Line and Multivet Anti-bark collars.

For that precious puppy in your life, Pet Supermarket in association with Eukanuba sponsors a Pet Supermarket Puppy Cub where you can save as much as 50% on your pupy supplies.

If your special pal is a fuzzy feline, Pet Supermarket has an extensive line of cat food and cat accessories. They offer the same brand names as in the  dog food section plus crates and carriers for your catâ??s travelling comfort and your convenience. Pet Supermarket has feline bedding, toys, grooming items, cat litter and health care products. To keep your outside property smelling nice Pet Supermarket offers Simple Solution Yard Odour Away and a unique Pee Post to protect your petâ??s territory. Other pet supplies include books on cat care.

Pet Supermarket Kitten Club in association with Eukanuba gives you a chance to save money on necessary cat supplies for your feline friend.

If fish is your fancy Pet Supermarket has lowest price guaranteed savings and special offers on everything you need to outfit your aquarium from lights, food, pest control, pumps, to how to books. If your pet plans include an attractive outdoor water pond in your garden, Pet Supermarket offers a complete TetraPond Wildlife Pond Starter Kit at a very affordable price.

Maybe bunny rabbits, hamsters and other little furry creatures are part of your lifestyle. Pet Supermarket hasnâ??t forgotten about them. They handle small animal carriers, toys, bedding, harnesses, feeders, litter and grooming items as well as feed and health care products all at discount prices.

Your flights of fantasy might run to birds. Pet Supermarket is the first and last place to stop and shop for your feathered friends. They handle bird pet supplies like feed, carriers, bird toys, cleaning products and anything else to make your petâ??s and your life comfortable.

Shopping at Pet Supermarket is beneficial in many ways. They have the lowest prices, guaranteed, and special offers. They offer Pet Insurance, an informative newsletter, and free delivery.

Pet Supermarket is â??run by pet lovers, for pet loversâ??. They understand your concerns and are there to fill all your pet supplies requirements.

search rankpros
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/discount-pet-supplies-from-pet-supermarket-639014.html

10 Hot Toys for Girls This Christmas

Posted by admin on 19/02/10 in cat toys

Wondering what to get your little girl this holiday season? Other than the usual clothes and accessories, it can be a bit challenging figuring out just what your daughter hopes to find under the Christmas tree this year. Here’s a few recommendations to help you find the perfect gift for her this Christmas.

Zhu Zhu Pets
What Is It? - Cute little pet hamsters that "Zoom Zoom."
What Makes This Toy Fun For My Daughter? - Zhu Zhu Pets hamsters zoom back and forth, chirping, squeaking, and changing direction just like a real hamster would!
What Should I Look For? - Grey, White, and Tan hamsters, with accompanying Zhu Zhu hamster ball, hamster wheel, and the gigantic multi-playset hamster city. Also be on the look out for the Zhu Zhu Pets Hamster House Starter Set; not only does it come with a cool little hamster playset, but the limited edition Zhu Zhu Hamster Patches as well! Patches can only be found in this starter set so which makes it all the more special!
Availability? - Hard to Find. The Zhu Zhu Pets are arguably the hottest Christmas toy for young girls and boys this holiday season; so get them wherever you can find one, or wait til after Christmas for the excitement to die down a bit.

Liv Fashion Dolls
What Is It? - Barbie’s with interchangeable hairstyles and other cool options.
What Makes This Toy Fun For My Daughter? - These girls have unique interchangeable hair styles, plastic socketed, not painted on, eyes, and multiple points of articulation for a wide variety of poses.
What Should I Look For? - Barbie meets Bratz dolls with a more contemporary look than the former, and less attitude than the latter.
Availability? - Easy to find. Lots of stock on hand

Moxie Girlz
What Is It? - Liv Fashion Dolls meets the Bratz
What Makes This Toy Fun For My Daughter? - Another contemporary doll line by the makers of the highly successful Bratz. Moxie Girlz still have attitude, but toned down in favor of more design and art-centric pursuits.
What Should I Look For? - "Nice" looking Bratz dolls more interested in Sharpee markers than makeup.
Availability? - Easy to find. Lots of stock on hand

Twilight New Moon Dolls
What Is It? - Twilight New Moon dolls are "the other hot property" for girls this year.
What Makes This Toy Fun For My Daughter? - Romantic vampires and werewolves going through their young adulthood phase spark the imaginations of both young and old(er) girls alike.
What Should I Look For? - Any Twilight New Moon dolls/figures available will be a hit. Particularly Edward, Bella, and Jacob, as their young lovers triangle forms the crux of the Twilight New Moon storyline (and are the most popular characters so far.)
Availability? - Easy to find. There are three different Twilight New Moon doll and "action figure" lines available: Twilight Barbie dolls, limited edition Tonner collectors dolls, and Neca pose-able "action figures." Both Neca and Barbie dolls should be easy to find just about anywhere, while the Tonner Twilight dolls will be typically obtainable from more specialty retailers (i.e. Amazon has a few Exclusive Amazon only Tonner Twilight dolls, available only through Amazon.com or their retail partners.)

2009 Barbie Holiday Doll
What Is It? - Mattel’s yearly limited Holiday edition Barbie doll.
What Makes This Toy Fun For My Daughter? - Extra attention to detail and higher quality in every facet of this holiday edition; celebrating not only the holidays but the 50th anniversary of Barbie as well.
What Should I Look For? - Deluxe keepsake packaging perfect for year round display.
Availability? - Easy to find. Buy them now though as Holiday Barbie’s are only available for their year’s holiday season.

Elmo Tickle Hands
What Is It? - "Elmo hands" for your little girl.
What Makes This Toy Fun For My Daughter? - These big gloves for little hands vibrate when pressed against a surface, causing a "tickle" motion.
What Should I Look For? - Big furry red gloves.
Availability? - Easy to find. Lots of stock on hand.

FurReal Friends Lulu My Cuddlin Kitty Cat
What Is It? - A lifelike replica cat.
What Makes This Toy Fun For My Daughter? - Similar to Zhu Zhu Pets hamsters, Lulu the Cuddlin Kitty is highly interactive with sensors that triggers meows, purring, and limited movement, all without the fuss of having a real cat.
What Should I Look For? - A cute and cuddly reddish orange and white furred feline.
Availability? - Easy to find. Lots of stock on hand; don’t forget the batteries!

HP Mini 110-1127NR 10.1-Inch Pink Netbook
What Is It? - A pretty in pink "starter" laptop computer.
What Makes This Toy Fun For My Daughter? - At only 10.1 inches, this netbook is the perfect portable computer for your daughter’s school work, email, and social networking. Web ready, on the go, and super light with an estimated battery life of up to 8 hours, and it’s pink!
What Should I Look For? - A nice, sub-$400 netbook.
Availability? - Easy to find. Netbooks are hot this year, with many manufacturers making them; which means great availability and pricing competition. Be sure not to forget the matching netbook sleeve to protect your daughters new computer from the elements.

Nintendo DSi
What Is It? - A mid life refresh for Nintendo’s top spot hand held game system.
What Makes This Toy Fun For My Daughter? - Built in cameras and microphones add a new level of interactivity and fun for girls and boys alike.
What Should I Look For? - Similar in style to the original Nintendo DS (which is still available) but with a small "i" in the logo.
Availability? - Easy to find. Stock seems to be generally healthy with the DSi this year.

Apple iPod Touch
What Is It? - The latest, greatest iPod currently available.
What Makes This Toy Fun For My Daughter? - With this she’ll be able to listen to her music or watch a movie while updating her Facebook at the mall.
What Should I Look For? - A very cool palm sized touch screen, with 64gb or 32gb options being the best bang for your buck.
Availability? - Easy to find. Apple looks to have produced enough stock of the iPod Touch for this holiday season.

While there are many more options available, these are your best bets for your daughter this Christmas. Time to get shopping!

Renee Calis

Tips On Choosing A Rescue Cat

Posted by admin on 17/02/10 in cat toys

You should take the time to visit several shelters before you decide on the cat you want to bring home to your family. Your first visit should be to check out the centre itself. You want to adopt a cat from a place that is clean and ran in an efficient way. You can tell by just observing whether the place is well kept and if the staff seems to enjoy working with the animals.

 

Once you have decided which shelter you are going to use to adopt your new pet the next step is to find out about their adoption process. You will be able to find out what type of information is needed from you, such as information on existing pets in the home. You should ask about cost at this time so you know what to expect when you find the right cat or kitten.

 

The RSPCA and most welfare organisations will ask for a donation of a specific amount. This helps them to be able to provide care and any type of veterinary treatments needed, including vaccinations and neutering. The cost is usually minimal considering the prices of purchasing a cat from a breeder.

 Adult cats are usually already littered trained and adapt will to a new home. They seem to be more laid back and affectionate. If you are considering a kitten just remember that they will need more time to become litter box trained and have to be fed more often. When they are real young they need constant supervision until they know what their limitations and boundaries are.

 Make sure you talk to the people at the shelter and find out as much as you can about the cat or kitten that you are interested in. They should be able to tell you why or how the cat came to be at the rescue centre. You want to know as much as possible because some cats landed there due to people moving or having a baby. On the other hand some ended up in the shelter because of behavioral problems.

 When you are choosing a cat or kitten make sure you pick one that is active and seeks affection from people. An adult cat should be comfortable with handling and petting without hissing or scratching. Kittens should be relaxed when picked up and handled and most of them will start purring. Ask the staff at the centre about anything they have observed about the catâ??s personality and take that into consideration also.

 

When you are choosing the shelter cat that is best for your family make sure to look at them closely. A healthy cat or kitten has clear bright eyes and a shiny coat. They shouldnâ??t be real skinny or show any signs of illness such as a runny nose or diarrhea. Be on the look out to see if the cat is scratching constantly or if it is missing any hair around the ears or on the legs. This can be a sign of ear mites or fleas.

 

After you have made the decision on which cat or kitten that you want to adopt you will then arrange for the adoption to take place. This could take several days depending on whether a home inspection is involved. While you are waiting to pick up the newest member of your family you can make sure you have everything needed for your new cat or kitten. This would include a bed, food and plenty of toys.

 

Once you bring home your cat or kitten make sure you give them plenty of space and time to get use to their new surroundings. Cats adapt quickly and easily to new environments. In no time at your new cat will fit right in with the rest of your family.

 

Today, pet insurance is readily available and is like having health insurance on yourself; it is there when you need it for those unexpected large health-related bills. By having this kind of insurance you can ensure that your cat will get the best treatment if they are ever injured or seriously ill. They donâ??t have to be kittens to be eligible. Any cat no matter their age can be covered with pet insurance; as long as you keep the premiums up they will be covered for their lifetime.

Karen Corey
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/tips-on-choosing-a-rescue-cat-694778.html

What are some toys I can make for my cat?

Posted by admin on 03/02/10 in cat toys

can you tell me how to make homemade cat toys for my domestic shorthair. Thanks!

here r some really cool different toys u can make fr ure kitty at home
http://www.shmat.com/cattoys/cattoysball.php
http://www.shmat.com/cattoys/cattoyspingpong.php
http://www.shmat.com/cattoys/cattoysstring.php
http://www.shmat.com/cattoys/cattoysfishing.php
http://www.shmat.com/cattoys/cattoysmonitor.php
http://www.shmat.com/cattoys/cattoyssocks.php
http://www.shmat.com/cattoys/cattoysroll.php
these r all pretty good
jenny xxxxx

i am looking to brainstorm here, i bought him five glitter balls and i know one of them had to be thrown out because it got pretty gunky, but the other four are no where in sight. My cat loves them and will actually leave me in peace if he has them. I have looked under ever piece of furniture, under couch cushions, behind the water heater. So where is the weirdest place that i haven’t thought to look that you have found cat toys?

Mine leaves them under the bed!

But in his younger days just down at the bottom of the stairs (not very original I know!)