Cats love the freedom of exploring overgrown, jungle-like gardens, bewitched by playful insects and enjoying the scents and textures of a myriad of fascinating plants. The experience inspires a certain hunting instinct in them that lets them roam with passion.
Exactly what should be included in a garden in order for it to appeal to those fierce feline foragers? Try these simple yet clever tips:
(1) Cats are renowned for adoring the heady scents of catmint, catnip and cat grass. As the names suggest, these selections are the perfect category (wink) to start with. But why not also plant an array of other scented delights? Herbs such as sage, lemon balm, thyme and chamomile will give an overall fragrant cornucopia to your Puss's Paradise.
(2) Plant some larger, bushy shrubs to provide shade and exciting nooks to explore. Although it can be a daunting challenge to select non-toxic varieties that won't pose a problem for your pets, there are many nonpoisonous choices that are perfect garden additions. Asparagus ferns, fuchsias, hibiscus, honeysuckle, Norfolk Island pine trees, palms, rose, umbrella trees and others are all considered safe for not only cats but children too!
(3) Your pet will love to catnap after a session of exploring so plant some soft, springy grasses to provide a comfortable bed. Any of the varieties of mondo grasses, available from your local nursery, would make a good choice.
(4) A great idea to protect your young tree seedlings is to provide a scratching post, handily positioned for any needed claw-scratching sessions; your trees will thank you for the inclusion!
(5) You want the garden to have some splashes of color to add some visual interest so consider planting out a flower bed or two to add a dash of vibrancy. Carefully select annuals and perennials from the following proven safe list. African violets, carnations, dandelion, gardenia, geranium, impatiens, lilac, marigold, pansy, petunia, snapdragon, zinnia. Leave one bedded area clear and well dug, in a private corner, to encourage toileting activities.
(6) Add a few potted plants and well placed rocks for privacy and camouflage purposes and incorporate perches and look-out posts to let your beloved friend claim the best vantage point in her new domain.
(7) A secure fence as a border may be practical to keep the garden area contained.
With sensible planning and a bit of practical forethought an appealing garden is achievable and affordable for most budgets and need not become an overgrown, jungle-like 'cat'astrophe! Happy gardening cat lovers!
Saturday
♥ Tips For Growing A Cat Garden! ♥
★ How To Care For A Pregnant Cat!
When caring for a pregnant cat allow the expectant Queen to live as normal a life as possible in the early stages. Over-vigilance and strict supervision are not required and you will likely observe your expanding pet spending greater amounts of time relaxing on her side as she approaches full-term. At this time, when she is greatly distended, make sure that she does not climb or otherwise strain herself.
When you first note that your cat is pregnant is it strongly advisable to start adding vitamin supplements to her meals. With young developing inside her, a pregnant Queen needs all the extra nutritional help she can get; she'll no longer be eating for just one and will likely enjoy larger portions at mealtimes.
Added calcium is important for the development of strong bones in the unborn kittens. It is also wise to consult a Veterinarian who can suggest additional vitamin and mineral supplements/powders that will serve as valuable dietary additions; remember to ask about the length of time supplements need to be given. Many experienced breeders swear by raspberry leaf, used as a uterine tonic and general aid, as an addition to your pregnant cat's diet. Administer from the fifth week of pregnancy until a week after kittening for best results; available in tablet form.
On average, sixty-five days is the usual gestation period for a feline; be sure to factor in the usual twenty-one day period after mating, at which stage the queen's deep-pink, slightly swollen nipples should be clearly showing. With increased progesterone levels your cat's behavior may also be more affectionate than it usually is.
Don't be alarmed if the birthing doesn't occur exactly on cue but be conscious of the fact that she will likely begin 'nesting' close to this time so be sure to provide a suitable nesting box, located in a quiet, darkened corner. A simple cardboard box lined with alternate layers of cotton fabric and newspaper should suffice. A pen enclosing the box is a sensible idea but make sure it is disinfected beforehand with a cat friendly substance.
No matter how well-prepared you efforts, some pregnant cats will choose a bedroom cupboard, drawer, or linen cupboard etc, as a suitable place to give birth; if you have provided a comfortable box as an alternative you may be well served. Don't be disheartened if your cat does indeed choose another location, instinctively she will search for a private area, away from potential predators and aggressive male cats in order to protect her precious young.
Make sure to keep a close eye on the Mum-to-be and if any signs of discomfort, undue pain or premature bleeding occur, hasten to consult a Vet. In a small number of cases, a cesarean birth may be required, a procedure which could actually save your beloved pet's life.
Keep your cat away from danger and stressful situations (loud noises, dogs, etc) especially in the later stages of pregnancy. A bit of extra love and unobtrusive attention will help calm her at the time of impending motherhood.
♥ Cat Breed: Abyssinian ♥
The Abyssinian cat is commonly believed to date back to the 1860s, originating in Ethiopia; yet some people claim that the breed can be traced back to the ancient cats of Abyssinia, now called Egypt.
They are known for their sharp intelligence, litheness and a refined, pleasant demeanor, often becoming very attached to their owners. A curious and adventurous nature is the norm with medium length bodies and short, fine coats. They have round, almond-shaped eyes, green, hazel or amber in color, and slender legs of moderate length. Size-wise they tend to weigh between 4-7.5kg (9-16lb).
The Abyssinian has a "ticked" coat, meaning that each hair, light in color, has several dark bands which are evenly spaced. This coloring results in an ideal camouflage for the dry desert lands of North Africa.
These days, the Abyssinian comes in a range of different colors. Anything from red through fawn, lilac, cinnamon, cream and chocolate, amongst others.
They are a popular cat breed and are generally healthy except for occasional blindness, especially an inherited form called retinal atrophy. Although making good companions they can be suspicious of strangers.
Abys are hardy and adaptable as pets and are a popular breed for showing; a good choice for any prospective cat owner.
Guide To Spaying And Neutering Cats
When it comes to desexing one's cat many owners have a crisis of conscience; should I have my lovable puss spayed or my gregarious tom neutered? Rest assured, a sterilized cat lives a happier, healthier life and often makes a much better pet than an intact animal.
Be aware that if you don't have your beloved pet 'fixed-up' it may be prone to a host of feline diseases and ailments, and if you've ever smelt the pervasive odor of an intact tomcat's urine you'll be straight off to the vet without a moments hesitation!
With a male cat (neutering or castration), both testicles are surgically removed. The procedure is done under general anesthetic and for the testes to be removed only tiny incisions are needed, usually with no stitches required. Kittens and adult cats can be neutered starting as young as six months old before puberty strikes, however some claim that the operation can occur at an even younger age than this; consult your vet. Your post-op infertile cat should become less aggressive and territorial, will roam less and, thankfully, won't spray that horrid scented urine! An added benefit is that your tom will not develop testicular cancer and will have a lesser chance of suffering prostate problems.
For female cats (queens), renowned for being very efficient breeders, it is wise to have them spayed by six months of age. In springtime and in households with more than one cat, reproduction can actually occur earlier than this. A cat in heat often displays strange behavior, with distinct howls and pained writhing so be alert to these signs. Spaying or 'ovariohysterectomy', surgically removing the uterus and ovaries, is performed under general anesthesia. The incision in the cat's abdomen is closed up with stitches often needing removal after 10 days. As with toms, desexed queens are less likely to develop certain diseases; the chances of having malignant breast cancer or 'pyometra' (uterine infection) are greatly reduced.
Although neutering and spaying are irreversible procedures it is worth reminding that tens of thousands of unwanted cats are put to death each year in the United States alone. Considering this alarming statistic it may be a wise idea to seriously consider having your beloved pet neutered. The procedures are safe, affordable and if any post operative complaints occur it is a simple matter of returning to the Vet for further advice.
Be responsible and have your cat desexed and be content in knowing that none of your beloved companion's positive personality traits will be affected.
Common Types Of Aggressive Behaviours Between Cats!
Aggressive behavior that commonly occurs between cats is often based on territorial reasons rather than matters of hierarchy. With back arched, tail bristling, dilated pupils, and much spitting and hissing, the sight of an aroused cat can be quite a daunting one.
Under normal circumstances, cats are usually fairly tolerant of one another; any disputes are often mild and quickly resolved without too much fuss. However, when two large, intact toms, equally matched, have a spat concerning territorial behavior, the fighting can be fierce and destructive for both parties. The fighting may also occur over mating rights with any available Queen (female cat).
For Queens, maternal aggression may occur when the mother cat defends her young against another too inquisitive cat. This style of defensive behavior seems entirely appropriate and healthy in order to assure the safety and well-being of the kittens.
In multi-cat households, aggression at feeding time can be a common problem. A cat may lash out at and intimidate another cat if it thinks that it may be missing out on its share of sustenance. A pattern of attack can often be observed where one animal picks on the same victim each time.
Aggressive behavior between kittens from the same litter sometimes occurs yet some of it is play fighting or mock aggression where each one attempts to assert its independence. At 14 weeks of age the fighting often becomes more serious and the bonds of kitten-hood are soon broken; serious injury is comparatively rare however.
Because of their razor-sharp teeth and claws as well as lightning quick reflexes, aggressive behavior between cats can result in injuries, yet cats from the same household will still attack another member from time to time. The introduction of a new cat into the house can be a trigger for upsets and fights. The aggression displayed is often fear-based and may seem out-of-character for some normally placid felines.
Although it may not be pleasant to witness, a good old-fashioned cat fight is bound to happen from time to time so be prepared!
Tips For Choosing Cat Food
When choosing the best cat foods to feed your hungry pet always be sure that the nutritional balance of the meal is well-considered and that you don't overfeed your cat; this is especially true when important when one considers the often sedentary lifestyle of the modern feline when compared with its hunting ancestors.
Cats are what are known as 'obligate carnivores', a fancy term that means they obtain a lot of their nutrition through sources of animal protein. Never think that you could raise a vegetarian cat as their physiology's just aren't geared for this!
Contrary to what many believe, commercially-produced cat food is actually a satisfactory choice to include in your pet's diet. Check the labels carefully and shop around for the healthiest, vitamin-enriched selections. Always be aware that depending on the age of your cat will determine exactly what foods to buy; young kittens expend more energy than an adult cat so will need different dietary requirements.
Budgeting aside, when shopping, whether selecting dry food (or kibble), semi-moist food - with higher water content or canned food, choose quality products and research pet food companies if you have any doubts; call them up if needed, your cat deserves the best! If feeding your pet a tailor-made fresh diet then be sure that it is getting all of the required nutrients, otherwise vitamin supplements may be needed.
A cat's diet should contain the following elements in order to optimize health:
* Protein - higher levels needed than any other domesticated species.
* Fat - in reduced amounts.
* Carbohydrates - used for fuel and a large component of commercial cat foods.
* Vitamins - a balanced selection.
* Amino acids - especially taurine.
* Minerals - Calcium and phosphorous.
* Water - A cat is 60 -70% water in makeup.
NO-NO's -
There are some foods that a cat should NOT consume, including cow's milk and chocolate. Houseplants, electrical cords, pennies, yarn, string, rubber bands, thread and tinsel may all look appetizing to your cat but can result in internal injuries.
Choose quality foodstuffs for your cat's diet and feed sensible-sized meal portions in order to maintain purrrfect health; Bon apetit!
Plants That Are Poisonous To Cats!
Many plants are toxic substances if eaten by your cat, but with a bit of forethought and sensible planning, the dietary safety of your beloved pet can be assured. Be aware that your cat will sometimes enjoy chewing on greenery, the reasons for this: they are seeking more fiber in their diet, through sheer boredom or to relieve teething irritation.
The following plants are considered poisonous to cats:
(Some of the listed varieties have only part of the plant being dangerous, but whether it be the leaves, stems, stalks, berries, bulbs or other, it pays to be cautious at all times.)
* A potentially fatal plant ~ BE AWARE!
INDOOR PLANTS -
Aloe vera, Araceae family (arum, calla lily, peace lily, philodendron), Bird of paradise, Caladium species, Chinese evergreen, Croton, Cyclamen, Dieffenbachia, English ivy, Euphorbia, Glory lily, Golden pothos, Holly, Jerusalem cherry, Kaffir lily, *Kalanchoe, *Lily (Easter lily, tiger lily, Madonna lily, Turk's cap lily, Asiatic lily), *Misletoe, Poinsettia, Rhododendron species.
OUTDOOR PLANTS -
Baptisia species, Bleeding heart, Buttercup, Cardinal flower, Christmas rose, Chrysanthemum, Clematis, Crocus, Daffodil, Daylily, *Delphinium, Elder, Euonymus, Flowering tobacco, *Foxglove, Garlic, Hyacinth, Hydrangea, Jack-in-the-pulpit, Jimson weed, Lily, *Lily of the valley, Lupine, *Monkshood, Morning glory, Nightshade, *Oleander, Poppy, Potato, Purple flag iris, Rhubarb, Sweetpea, Tulip, Virginia crepper, *Yew.
Where possible, remove the plants that pose as a source of danger to your cat and provide safe alternate greenery, such as cat grass, for your pet to chew on. Although it may be impractical to move whole garden beds of poisonous plants, it helps to keep them well trimmed and maintained for the sake of your pet's safety.
If planning a new garden, cat owners would be well served to consult the above list in order to avoid including plantings that may compromise the safety of one's pet. Be especially careful with choices of indoor varieties.
Toilet Training Tips For Cats!
Although cats are naturally clean animals with good hygiene, it is important to start toilet training when the animal is at the kitten stage. This is easily achieved by placing the young cat in the litter tray whenever it shows signs that it is about to perform; this conditions its behavior. Anticipating when the kitten will pass waste and placing it in the litter tray beforehand is also a good strategy.
Other toilet training tips and ideas include:
* Be aware that toileting often occurs after waking up and after meals, (litter tray training might occur at these times).
* The litter tray is best kept in a secluded place away from the feeding area and where the cat sleeps. Take note that cats are unlikely to go to the toilet near where they eat.
* A litter tray should be easy to clean; disposable liners or newspapers need frequent changing to prevent strong odors.
* Cat litters with absorbent clay material or Fuller's earth are best for absorbing the smell of urine and feces. Litter made from bark is not as effective.
* If you change varieties of cat litter your pet may not want to use it as cats get used to the feeling and odor of the usual litter and often prefer this.
* If you would rather your cat do its toilet in the garden, a litter tray can be placed outside, or if the cat digs in the garden bed, especially when covering its feces, be aware of health issues and any inconvenience to neighbors.
Some clever cats have been known to use a human toilet but to be on the safe side a standard cat litter tray is the best choice.
When toilet training your cat, start young, keep the area clean and well-positioned and you can't go wrong.
How To Control And Prevent Fleas In Cats!
The flea, that pesky, jumping scourge, is the most common external parasite in cats; they cause cats to scratch madly and for those unfortunate animals who are allergic to them, scabby, weeping skin sores (Dermatitis) may result. Tapeworm infection and bartonellosis can also be possible flea related problems.
So how does one control and eradicate these troublesome pests? Firstly, it helps to find proof that fleas are in fact living in the cat's fur. This is easily done by grooming the animal with a flea comb and looking for evidence of flea "dirt", flecks of chocolate brown grit like specks of pepper, which, horribly enough, are defecated blood from your cat left behind by the fleas (squeeze it between damp tissues to reveal a reddish brown residue).
As fleas are very fast moving, they can be quite hard to spot; to add to the difficulty of treating, be aware that your cat may be attacked by the cat flea, dog flea or even human flea, all of which lay their eggs in the cat's fur. Your floor-coverings in the house will also likely be a breeding ground, sometimes infested with fleas and their eggs. Keep in mind that a flea can live for up to two years, so vigilance in controlling them is very important.
An effective flea eradication plan should achieve the following goals:
(1) The elimination of immature flea stages in the environment.
(2) The wiping out of adult fleas on the cat itself.
(3) A prevention of any future re-infestation of the parasite.
Extensive cleaning and vacuuming, washing pet bedding etc should be conducted on a regular basis in order to eliminate flea eggs and larvae; fleas breed best in humid conditions so drying out of the home environs and pruning outside are advisable strategies. Some wildlife, such as squirrels, raccoons, and possums will also carry fleas so don't allow them into your house in order to prevent possible infestation of your pets.
Pet stores sell anti-flea products, including powders, shampoos and sprays that work well, also available at veterinary practices and supermarkets. For the home environment, long-active sprays are the best products to use. Treating your cat with insecticide can help, applied to a small area of the neck, effective for whole body protection for a month. Some flea products worth trying include Fipronil (good for kittens), Imidacloprid and Lufenuron (which stops flea eggs from developing). A flea collar for your cat is another good idea, some lasting up to 12 months. Be aware that flea products designed for dogs are not recommended to be used on cats as they can produce toxic effects.
Cleanliness is key in the control and prevention of fleas in cats; be thorough in eradicating them and your cat shall remain happy and content, and free from the dreaded itch!
