Organic diets for cats are becoming quite a popular and frequent occurrence. As consumers become more switched onto how and what commercial cat food is made of, a completely organic diet for optimum cat health is becoming more commonplace. As with ourselves, having a high quality and wholesome diet throughout their lives cats are likely to stay healthy and active for longer.

There are a number of brands of organic cat food and more are emerging onto the shelves all the time. The Newman’s Own Organic range is particularly popular. Not only do cats (and dogs) seem to enjoy the different formulas within the range, but also a large percentage of the profits are donated to charity. The Newman’s range is extensive and includes wet and dry food as well as treats and snacks.

Paw Naturaw also have a range of popular organic cat food that include items such as frozen Chicken Patties. Because their food is frozen, it doesn’t go “off” and can all be used without waste. The food within the Paw Naturaw diet is even fit for human consumption as only the highest quality organic meats and vegetables are used.

PetGuard also have a range of canned organic food including items such as the Organic Chicken and Vegetable Entree for cats. There are no preservatives, artificial colors, sugars, sweeteners, corn, soy, wheat or yeast used within their organic food for cats.

Although organic food is undoubtedly more expensive than the traditional commercial foods we are used to seeing on the supermarket shelves, in the long run the benefits to your cat’s health are numerous. Knowing that your cat is eating food that you yourself would be able to eat provides peace of mind that the quality is high and all of their nutritional needs are begin met.

A little known, yet sometimes disturbing experience for cats and their owners is the burrowing of a cuterebra parasite. These pests are often seen in kittens or barn cats, usually in the middle to late summer, and the life cycle of these parasites often shocks owners that come into contact with them.

Cuterebra Life Cycle

Cuterebra are large bee-like flies that lay their eggs near the homes of small animals and rodents, like squirrels or rabbits. The eggs can actually stick to the fur of an animal, such as a curious kitten or a barn cat that is sniffing near the nest or den. The fly’s egg then hatches on the cat, and the larva enters the cat’s body, usually through the nose or mouth. While this may be annoying enough to the infected cat, the life cycle is not over yet.

A single larva will then migrate through the tissue of the cat’s body, often ending up somewhere under the skin of the neck. The larva will grow to be up to an inch long, still living under the skin. A cyst will form around it, until the larva finally burrows through to the outside.

Cuterebra Removal

Owners of cats with a cuterebra may notice a lump begin to swell in the cat’s neck. Eventually, the larva will make a hole in the skin large enough to fit through in order to breathe, but they will usually hang out in the skin for up to 3 weeks. By this time, most owners will have taken their cat in to be checked out, and the vet will pull the little parasite out with forceps.

The larva, which is a grayish color, will eventually leave the host cat if left long enough, but it is more likely to cause more damage if left longer.

There are usually few complications with the removal of a cuterebra. The area should be cleaned well and a topical antibiotic will help prevent infection. It may take up to a month for the cyst and opening to heal, but with proper care, most cats recover quickly once the larva is out.

Feline leukemia (FeLV) is a deadly virus that affects cats. Although it cannot be spread to humans, it is sometimes known as “feline AIDS” because it often attacks a cat’s immune system. Unfortunately, there is no cure for feline leukemia.

Symptoms and Diseases Caused by Feline Leukemia

Cats with feline leukemia don’t necessarily show symptoms that they have the disease at first. Over time however, infected cats will usually suffer from decreased appetite, anemia, fatigue, weight loss, poor coat condition, and diarrhea. As the disease progresses they will often develop different types of cancer, eye disease, infections of the mouth, gums, and tongue, renal failure, and other chronic illnesses.

Transmission of FeLV

Feline leukemia is a contagious disease, and is spread through bodily fluids. Saliva that is exchanged during cat fights is the most common way cats infect each other, but blood, urine, and feces can also transmit the disease.

Not all cats that come in contact with the feline leukemia virus will become sick. An estimated 40% of cats’ immune systems will destroy the virus before it does any damage. 30% of cats will contract the virus, but store it in an inactive state in their bone marrow until it emerges and causes sickness years down the line. The other 30% of cats will become persistently infected immediately. Feline leukemia is fatal, and 25% of cats that are persistently infected will die the first year; the rest will most likely die within 3 years.

Prevention

Feline leukemia is very preventable. A simple blood test done at a veterinarian’s office will determine if a cat has the virus or not. For those that test negative, a yearly vaccine can keep them from becoming infected. Outdoor cats have a higher risk of becoming infected with feline leukemia because of their increased exposure to other cats, but all cats are potentially at risk.

Even an indoor cat that likes to sit in a screened-in window in the summer could become infected with feline leukemia from an infected stray cat that is sniffing around outside. Because of the seriousness of this virus, some veterinarians recommend that all cats get vaccinated for the disease, but many cat owners find they are able to completely isolate their indoor cats from other cats, which is the best means of prevention.

Lots of people have emergency preparedness kits of one kind or another, and even more have a first aid kit safely located in the home as well. If you are someone who owns cats, particularly if those cats are allowed both indoors and outdoors, it is a good idea to have a first aid kit for the cats too.

What should be contained in a basic kit? It is important to differentiate between the everyday supplies you use for the cats in the household, and the emergency supplies required for an unusual event. For one thing, you will want a kit that is closed tightly to prevent spilling of any kind. You will also want the emergency phone number for the regular veterinarian on the outside of the case, along with the number to the poison control center and an emergency veterinarian clinic if your vet doesn’t have any afterhours services.

Inside the kit should be some regularly updated paperwork on each cat in the house, including any vaccinations records, notes on allergies or conditions, and the proof of their rabies vaccine. This is to provide the owner with easy to read materials should some sort of emergency situation develop and a file folder full of medical records is unavailable.

The kit should then have the necessary supplies to treat some of the most common injuries, but it must also have a small handbook illustrating basic first aid techniques for cats. This would include how to dress a wound, safely restrain an injured animal, and many other emergency treatments.

Because the owner is only performing fundamental treatments it is understood that the kit is going to contain materials geared at helping and comforting the animal while on the way to emergency treatment. The kit must include:

When a housecat is welcomed into the home it is usually viewed in terms of a family pet. It is going to be expected to provide some entertainment and companionship to its housemates, but it is also a creature full of natural instincts too. This is often the reason that young cats will “stalk” humans who are asleep in bed, the feet of all passersby, and even other cats or pets as well.

Cats are natural-born hunters with instincts that simply cannot be overridden or eliminated in any way at all. This is something that must be accepted if the animal is going to be comfortable and happy in the home. It helps to understand that cats were domesticated and taken from the wild strictly because of their abilities as hunters. Many ancient civilizations had a great deal of respect and admiration for cats because they captured disease-brining rodents and kept food supplies secure.

While you may have also actually acquired a cat for the purposes of keeping your home free of invading mice or rodents, you will have to still accept the way that the cat goes about its “business”. For example, cats are not spring-loaded mousetraps that will tend to kill their prey in a single pounce or swipe of the paw. Instead they tend to perform what seems to be an extremely cruel game, known universally as “cat and mouse”, during which time it is not clear whether their prey is to be killed or simply used as a temporary toy.

Many owners do not know what to do when their house cat walks into the room proudly carrying a mouse (alive or dead). The first thing to consider is the health of the cat and the people in the home. Yes, a cat is a very skilled natural hunter and it may have all of its shots and vaccinations, but a mouse is still a wild animal with small and sharp teeth and claws which will easily pierce human and feline flesh. This means that it is perfectly acceptable to interfere with the classic game of cat and mouse and remove the prey from the cat in the safest way possible.

If, however, the cat presents its beloved owners with the “gift” of a dead rodent (which is a sign of affection from the cat towards the housemates) it must not be scolded for this behavior since it is entirely instinctual. Instead the prize should be disposed of in a sanitary manner and the cat should be then monitored for any signs of fleas or worms that can be readily acquired from rodents.

It can be a worrying prospect, introducing your new born baby to your cat. Not knowing how your cat will react is nerve-wracking to say the least. Some cats won’t give it a moments thought, but others may display signs of jealousy.

There is not really any way to know which way your cat will go, but there are some precautionary measures you can take to narrow the chances of jealousy or other problems developing.

Make sure your cat is up to date with all injections and medications. It is also worthwhile getting a health check for your cat. Make sure both flea and worming treatments are given to your cat before you return home with the new baby. Trim your cat’s claws too.

Play a recording of a crying baby in your home so your cat can get used to the noise and won’t be frightened or nervous when he hears the noise for real. Also allow him to smell the baby’s things (such as baby powder and wipes) and bedroom furniture. Don’t let him in the baby’s crib however.

Once your baby has arrived, try and send home in advance a blanket she or he has been wrapped in. This will start getting your cat used to the new smell. Once your cat has smelt the blanket, give him lots of praise.

When you have brought the baby home, make sure the cat’s routine is not disrupted as this will make him anxious. When you are with the baby, talk to your cat at the same time so the cat doesn’t feel jealous and forms positive associations with the baby rather than negative ones.

It is important not to rush the introductions between your cat and your baby – often cats will come up to the baby for a sniff and then wander off again. Only let your cat near the baby when you are present however.

Don’t forget to make time for your cat each day. Grooming, playing, stroking are all good activities that will make your cat feel loved. If your cat doesn’t feel included in your life anymore, feelings of jealousy towards the baby may emerge.

If the following advice is adhered to, the chances are slim that your cat will react badly to your newborn baby and you won’t have anything to worry about.
]]> http://www.catcareproducts.com/articles/article-cats-baby/feed/ 0 http://www.catcareproducts.com/reviews/review-cat-bed-frames/ http://www.catcareproducts.com/reviews/review-cat-bed-frames/#comments Sat, 10 Jul 2010 06:00:00 +0000 admin http://www.catcareproducts.com/uncategorized/review-cat-bed-frames/ Top 5 Cat Bed Frames- 2010

GoGo Large Wood Framed Bed

Paw Rating 4.5

This product from GoGo is a beautifully designed bed frame suitable for both cats and dogs. It has a beautiful finish and a very sturdy design so it is extremely durable and long lasting. This piece of furniture would look great in any room, a real centerpiece. It is excellent value too.

Scratch N Massage Cat Bed

Paw Rating 4.0

This is a truly innovative design. Designed by Get Organized, it no only provides an optimum environment for peaceful and therapeutic rest, but it also makes the perfect play pen and scratching box for your cat. The walls are treated with organic catnip oil and the flakes ensure a thorough and satisfying scratch can be had by your cat. This is a versatile product that your cat will love.

Savvy Tabby Wooden Cat Window Seat Espresso

Paw Rating 4.0

This wooden framed bed makes the perfect window seat for your four legged friend. With a comfortable pillow included, your cat will lie and snooze for hours. The bed frame is supported by adjustable legs and the good quality wooden design makes it ideal for blending in with any decor or color scheme.

Kuranda Bed – Forest

Paw Rating 3.5

This bed frame is perfect for elevating your pets off the ground. Suitable for both dogs and cats, it is durable and long lasting. It sits on anodized aluminum legs that are strong and totally chew proof too. Keeps your pets off cold floors or out of drafts. Cat love the elevated position it gives them too.

Designer Small Bed

Paw Rating 3.5

This product is from JCM Enterprize and it is the very best in stylish bed frames for your pets. The high walls are loved by dogs and cats alike and the design will fit in well with any room in the house. It sits on solid wooden posts and even has a headboard, footboard and side rails. A stunning bit of furniture that you and your pets will love.

Summary

For cost effectiveness, the Scratch n Massage cat bed cannot be beaten. For style and design, the winner is the Designer Bed from JCM. If you want an overall great bed frame, you cannot go wrong with the GoGo large wooden framed bed.

FURminator Waterless deShedding Shampoo/Conditioner for Dogs and Cats

Paw Rating 5.0

This is a hugely popular shampoo and conditioner range for cats. Because most cats hate getting wet, this waterless shampoo provides the perfect solution. It helps eliminate odor and it also reduces excess shedding by leaving the coat shiny and the skin healthy. It works particularly well with the FURminator deshedding tool.

Micro-Tek Pet Shampoo

Paw Rating 5.0

Micro-Tek shampoo is anti-bacterial and anti-fungal as it contains anti-microbial ingredients. It really helps control skin conditions caused by fungus and bacteria such as flea dermatitis, seborrhea, hot spots & dry itchy skin. If your cat is suffering from flaky skin, this shampoo treatment will ease the discomfort and accelerate the healing. It eliminates all cat odor too.

FURminator deShedding Shampoo for Dogs and Cats

Paw Rating 4.5

This shampoo from FURminator is designed specifically to encourage a healthy coat. When massaged into the skin it not only cleans brilliantly but leaves the coat shiny and the skin underneath very healthy. It is enriched with Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids which are loaded with vitamins and proteins. Many professional groomers and vets use this product.

Dermal Soothe Anti-Itch Shampoo for Dogs & Cats

Paw Rating 4.5

This product is quite self-explanatory – it soothes skin to prevent excessive itching and scratching. It contains Pramoxine HCl and other ingredients that provide moisture and accelerated healing to dry, flaky and itchy skin. It leaves the coat of your pet shiny and soft. It can be used on dogs, cats and also horses.

Clean-Cat Shampoo

Paw Rating 4.5

This product is from PetAlive and it contains herbal ingredients for an all natural shampoo. It provides a calming and cleansing treatment to cats and nourishes the coat whilst moisturizing the skin underneath. With a great smell too, this is a really nice product to use on your cats.

Summary

For an anti-itch shampoo, try the Dermal Soothe Anti-Itch Shampoo. It works wonders. For a natural shampoo, you can’t go wrong with the PetAlive Clean-Cat shampoo. If you want a product packed with vitamins and minerals to give your cat a healthy coat, choose the FURminator deShedding Shampoo for Cats and Dogs.

LitterMaid Cat Privacy Tent

Paw Rating 4.5

This tent is a cost effective way to both hide the litter tray and provide your cat with privacy (which they will thank you for). It has a washable cover but allows easy access to litter fills and emptying too. It fits most cat litter boxes and is very easy to assemble. Your cat can even enjoy this product when there is no litter box inside as it provides a cosy and private space for napping and playing.

The DOGGONE Litter Block from Wags to Kiss

Paw Rating 4.5

This product is perfect if you want to keep the dog away from the litter tray. It is perfectly designed to allow cats in, but keep dogs out. It fits to most litter box hoods and slides into place very easily and quickly. There is no assembly required. The plastic is very easy to clean and it doesn’t even need to be removed for emptying or cleaning of the litter tray.

Refined Feline Cat Litter Box Espresso Finish

Paw Rating 4.0

This is a very sturdy litter enclosure that also looks great in your home. It comes with hinged doors and a sliding tray for easy removal of the litter box. It even has a storage drawer for the litter and scoop. Made from wood and with an attractive pine veneer finish, it is an elegant design that also works well. It fits a number of litter boxes including LitterMaid Elite®, LitterMaid Elite Mega®, ScoopFree®, and Petmate Purrforma®.

ScoopFree Litter Box Privacy Hood from Brilliant Pet

Paw Rating 3.5

This removable litter box hood fits easily to the ScoopFree self-cleaning litter box to provide your cat with comfort and privacy when using the litter tray. Cats are private creatures and like to be hidden whilst using the litter tray, so this provides the perfect solution. Good value and durable this product works well at reducing odor in your home too.

LitterWorks Litter Robot II Litter Box Cabinet

Paw Rating 3.5

This cabinet is designed for the Litter Robot II. It is made from high quality veneered plywood and can be custom finished to match any style of the room. There is a small amount of assembly required but it is excellent at hiding the litter tray and is an elegant design.

Summary

For a cheap and cheerful solution, go for the LitterMaid cat privacy tent. If you want to keep your dog out of the way, choose the DOGGONE litter block. When looking for an elegantly designed piece of furniture, select the Refined Feline Cat Litter Box.

If your cat has been diagnosed with a condition or an illness, there may be cat food available that will help ease any pain of suffering it is causing. The types of illness that can be aided in this way range from allergies to diabetes to life threatening illnesses such as cancer and heard disease.

These special diets are called therapeutic diets. They are specially targeted formulas and they can have a very beneficial effect on the overall quality of life of your cat. They are so effective that they can prevent a disease from developing as well as ease any pain and aid recovery. These types of diets are not available in supermarkets however and can only be prescribed from your veterinarian. It is also important that they are not used instead of traditional medicine, but in conjunction with for maximum benefit.

Therapeutic diets were invented in 1960 when a vet prescribed a special diet for a dog suffering from kidney disease. The diet had a special balance of nutrition that reduced the amount of work the kidneys needed to do. The dog lived much longer than anticipated and didn’t feel the symptoms of the disease as severely as before. This diet was named the Prescription Diet KD (kidney disease). The vet went on to create Hills Pet Nutrition that continue to develop prescription diets to this day. (Prescription diet is the brand name of Hills Pet Nutrition, therapeutic diet is the general term that is used for these types of diet.)

Therapeutic diets are more expensive than the typical commercial cat food of course, but they can dramatically help a cat when they are suffering. Reduced pain and suffering and even elongated life expectancy are well worth the extra cost.

It is very important that therapeutic diet food is not given to a normal, healthy cat as the balance of the nutrients would be completely inappropriate and possibly cause more harm than good. If you are interested in finding out more about how your cat could benefit from a therapeutic diet, contact your vet who will be able to discuss it with your further.