The Cat Owner Club

Information, Resources & Tips For Cat Owners & Cat Lovers!

Archive for the ‘General’ Category

13
Mar
2008

Great Cat. This is really interesting and exciting,the tricks sounds simple but naturally it really require great effort and time to learn these tricks. The obedience and tricks training must really take patience. Rewards must be really sweet. Kudos for both cat and owner. Cheers!

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12
Mar
2008

Are you tired of cat hair on the counters, footprints on the windowsills, and rumpled pillows? If so, you may want to consider giving your cat his own resting spot. In fact, to truly make your cat happy, you may need to provide him with several cat beds in different areas.

There are so many different types and styles of cat beds that finding one that blends with your décor should not be too hard. You can look for colorful cat beds in fun pet prints that add a touch of whimsy to the room or you can shop for cat beds with plenty of designer elegance, instead. Of course, your cat will be more concerned with how the bed feels than what it looks like.

Cat beds often have fleece pillows to keep them feeling cozy. These beds may be oval shaped with high sides or they may actually be completely enclosed to form a cozy nest bed. Cats enjoy being able to snuggle up in a secure spot, which is why so many of them manage to squeeze inside sofas or other odd spots to nap.
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11
Mar
2008

If you are about to adopt a Maine Coon Cat, you should know, right away, that this is no ordinary cat! The first indication will be the actual cost of the Maine Coon…but it will become even more evident shortly after you arrive home with your kitten.

All kittens – of every breed – are playful, and your Maine Coon won’t be any different. What is different, however, is that your Maine Coon won’t outgrow that playfulness like other breeds do. In fact, the Maine Coon remains playful for his or her entire life. Make sure that you provide your Maine Coon with toys, and select toys that he can play with, without your help, as well as those that he can enjoy with you.

 You can also expect your Maine Coon to be sociable. Most cats are not sociable. They often will allow you to pet them and such, but in the grand scheme of things, they preferred to be left alone, until such time that they desire your attention. When that time comes, you are expected to drop everything and serve them humbly.

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10
Mar
2008

Everyone knows that cats absolutely hate water, so why on earth would someone want to bathe their cat? Well, although cats don’t enjoy paddling in the swimming pool with their doggie pals, they still can get just as dirty or flea infested as dogs. There are times when there is just no other option besides giving your cat a bath. As long as you do not bathe your cat more frequently than once a month, you will not damage his hair or skin.

Before you begin bathing your cat, you will need to gather a few supplies. At the minimum, you will need two absorbent terry cloth towels, a pet safe shampoo, a pet safe conditioner, a sponge, and a sprayer attachment for your sink or tub. If you don’t have a sprayer attachment, you should have a pitcher or large cup that you can use to scoop clean water over your cat’s body. Ideally, you should also have a non-skid mat to help your cat feel more secure.

If you decide to bathe your cat in the tub, you may have a harder time holding on to him if he becomes frightened. However, it is usually easier to keep him contained if he escapes in a bathroom than in the kitchen.

Place your non-skid mat in the bottom of the sink or tub. Add two to three inches of warm water and gently place your cat in the tub. Talk to him quietly and reassure him. He will most likely settle down within a few seconds. Once he is calm, begin to wet him down. If the sprayer attachment scares him too badly, you may have to pour water over him using your pitcher or cup, instead. Do not pour water on his head. You will clean his face later.

Once your cat is wet, squeeze out a palm sized dollop of shampoo and thoroughly massage the shampoo into his coat. If you use slow, calming motions, he may even actually relax and enjoy this part of the bath.
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10
Mar
2008

Last few weeks had been so busy and stressful for me. With all the meetings and projects, I had not taken a rest for quite some time. I am considering whether to take some break but not sure where to. I need to get out of the busy schedule to relax my body and mind and traveling came to my mind. However, traveling would be a tedious work for me with all the planning and not forgetting the cost involve. And I doubt I could afford to take a long break from the work since my projects are half completed at the moment.

So I decided to change my mind and find somewhere nearer and someplace I can just lie down for one day to rest and relax. After considering many options, I decided to go to the beach for a change. The beach is a nice place to go to in a sunny day for the sun and the sea breeze. I could go there for picnic or just to play some beach games with my family and friends.

The kids would love to play in the sand building sandcastles and splashing in the sea. Think it’s time to pack my picnic blanket, some food and buckets and head down to the beach with my family and enjoy a wonderful day today!

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9
Mar
2008

Maine Coon Cats have been around for more than a century. In fact, the first reference to them is from the 17th century in the United States. In fact, a Maine Coon cat is mentioned in literature in 1861. The next known mention of the Maine Coon is 1895, when a Maine Coon won the title of Best Cat at the Madison Square Garden Cat Show. There is much speculation as to how they originated, but there is not any substantial proof of any of the theories.

First note that the Maine Coon Cat is designed to withstand harsh winters. He has thick, virtually water-proof fur, and large paws that are shaped well for walking on ice and snow. He also has tufted ears, which may exist for the purpose of keeping wind from blowing directly into his ear canal. Among all breeds of cats, these are the ones that were built to survive harsh, cold weather.

With that said, the most logical of all of the theories is that the Maine Coon breed originated when cats brought over for Norway mated with short-hair or long-haired cats in the United States. In fact, Maine Coons are most closely related to the Norwegian Forest Cat.

Other theories exist as well. One of these theories is that the Maine Coon is a cross between a raccoon and a cat. This theory, however, doesn’t hold water, since animals do not breed with other types of animals, and mating between a raccoon and cat would be biologically impossible. Some experts believe that the Maine Coon was originally a wild animal, but others believe that the breed has always been domesticated.

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5
Mar
2008

So,you’ve decided that you want to have a pet cat. However, before you shop for your kitten, you may need to consider a few important things. After all, finding out that a cat is not for you after you’ve already grown attached can be heart breaking.

The main reason that people have to find their cats new homes is that they are allergic to cats. If you’ve never spent much time around cats, be sure you can spend a few hours in a home with cats without developing an allergy attack. Also, check with friends and family to be sure none of them are highly allergic.

Next, you may want to consider your lifestyle. Although most cats need less interaction than dogs, your cat can still become lonely and bored if left alone all day. A bored cat is often a bad cat. If you work long hours, consider getting two kittens so that they can keep each other company.

Don’t forget to take a look at your home and be sure you can fit in a cat and all of his accessories. Cats need litter boxes, food dishes, toys, and a scratching post. If you have children, the litter box will need to be placed in a place that your children can’t get to, but that your cat can access easily.
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4
Mar
2008

Your Maine Coon Cat is special. This is evident from the price that you paid for him to the fact that he is sociable to the point of behaving more like a dog than a cat. Because he is special, you want to be sure that you feed him the way that he needs to be fed, and that you are feeding him the right things.

First, let’s discuss water. Fresh water should be made available to your Maine Coon Cat at all times – otherwise, it won’t be long before he learns how to lift the lid on the toilet, or how to turn on faucet on the kitchen sink. He is perfectly capable of turning that faucet on, and since he’s been paying attention, and he knows that this is where the water comes from, he will do it if other water is not available to him. He will not, however, turn the water off when he is finished.

While fresh water should always be available, food should not. Free feeding is highly discouraged for Maine Coon Cats. Most cat breeds eat what their body requires, and then they walk away from the food bowl – regardless of how much food is still in it. Maine Coon Cats do not. They will eat until the food is gone – like dogs do. If you free feed, it won’t be long before your precious kitty has a weighty issue.

Dry cat food is recommended for Maine Coon Cats. In fact, if you shop for your cat food online, you can find food that is designed especially for Maine Coon’s. You can even ask your pet store or veterinarian to order special food for you. You can also feed the cat the brands in the stores, that are not specialized, but you will find that your Maine Coon enjoys greater health, and has a longer life, if you feed him food designed especially for his breed. Read the rest of this entry »

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26
Feb
2008

Wow, It is so cute. Just wonder what is so interesting that is keeping the cat fascinated who keep his focus at the background. The little tortiose is also a small terror, anyway it is really nice and such a joy to see pets living in harmony. Cheers.

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26
Feb
2008

This may sound so interesting. Could this be some scientific breakdown if the research has suggested that domestic cats ancestors diverged from the ancestors of other populations of today’s wildcats. Stay tuned to find out more on this article.

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25
Feb
2008

The current house that one lived in might not be big enough in the future, especially with additional of family members. Moving house is a hassle; first we would need to get a relocation realtors to assist in locating a suitable house to our personal needs.

After visiting a lot of houses and finally settling our eyes on one of the house, we would start comparing Mortgage home loans. And there is a need to do some research on the loans so that we would be able to get the lowest loan for ourselves.

Finally, is searching for the mover quotes to move the things from the old house to the new house. So much of works are to be done before finally settling down at a new place. It would be better if we are able to search all information in a common portal. National Relocation does provide the service, it is a relocation portal, where you not only can search for relocation realtors, and you are able to search to rent a house, which the house owners advertise at the portal for free.

Getting the rent, moving the house, the portal also provide Mortgage home loans comparison, where we can compare mortgages and find the most suitable to our personal needs. We can also get mover quotes.

For more information, please visit National Relocation.

Cat Lover

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24
Feb
2008

If you are thinking about getting a Maine Coon Cat, you need to be fully aware of the cost. The first cost that you will experience is the cost of the kitten. If the parents are titled, the Maine Coon kitten will cost anywhere from $600 to $1000. If the parents are not titled, you can expect to pay between $200 and $400. Adult Maine Coon’s, who are not titled, cost anywhere from $100 to $200.

First, make sure that you can afford a Maine Coon Cat. This does not refer to the cost of buying the kitten – this refers to the cost of lifelong care for the animal. First, he needs to see his veterinarian every year for a checkup. An emergency fund also needs to be set up to pay the vet in the event that the animal gets sick. Despite how healthy and strong Maine Coon Cats are, they do still get ill, just like any other animal.

 Maine Coon’s thrive on special diets designed for their breed. Therefore, it isn’t just a question of purchasing food; it is a question of purchasing the right food. Obviously, this food is usually a great deal more expensive than regular food.

 Your Maine Coon needs a bed to call his own, with bedding. He also needs a variety of toys to play with. He isn’t just having fun – he is staying in good shape. Toys are vital to his overall good health. He will need cat treats to help keep his teeth and gums in good shape, and also to provide extra vitamins and minerals that he needs. Your vet may prescribe additional vitamins as well.

 Your Maine Coon needs a good brush, which will need to be replaced about every six months. He will also need medicated shampoo to control fleas, as well as medication to keep the fleas and ticks off of him. He will also need a harness and leash if you will be taking him outdoors.

 It is a good idea to invest in a cat tree. Maine Coons are not as adept as climbing up as other breeds of cats, but they will enjoy a well-designed cat tree that allows them to go up – without having to go straight up. They will also be happy with the various hiding places in the cat tree. These cat trees can be expensive.

You will need an animal carrier. Because Maine Coons grow to be large animals, it needs to be one that can accommodate his size. If you don’t travel much, don’t assume that you won’t need the carrier. First, you will need it to take him back and forth to the veterinarian’s office. The animal carrier will also come in handy when it isn’t safe for the cat to be in the house – such as when you bomb for bugs or steam clean the carpet.

Obviously, you will need a litter box. You can purchase expensive litter boxes or cheap litter boxes, but one thing is certain. All plastic litter boxes have to be thrown out at some point. The plastic often absorbs the odor, and it does become unbearable to live with after a certain point. You will also need fresh litter for the litter box. Litter can be cheap or expensive – but if you don’t want to smell anything, you will be willing to pay for the higher quality litter.

Again, before you spend the money to purchase the Maine Coon, understand that this is not the only cost. Maine Coon’s live to be between 15 and 21 years, and that’s how long you can expect to have ongoing expenses.

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22
Feb
2008

If you love Maine Coon Cats, you might be interested in breeding them. However, Maine Coon Cat breeding is not something that one jumps into overnight. There are a number of things to consider.

First and foremost, it is not advisable to breed just any Maine Coon Cat. Most good breeders agree that only titled Maine Coon Cat’s should be bred, keeping the pedigrees incredibly pure. Breeders also work to breed out certain genetic disorders that are common to the Maine Coon.

 Also note that while Maine Coon Cats sell for a fairly hefty price - $600 to $1000 for 12 week old kittens – a lot of money is invested into them as well. For example, you will need to take the kittens to the veterinarian, at least once, before they are sold. You may need to pay for genetic testing as well to make sure that the kittens do not have any problems.

 Obviously, you must care for the queens and the studs, ensuring that they maintain good health as well. While there is still a profit to be made, in most cases, you should note that you will not get rich breeding these cats – and you may not make a full time living at it either.

 Even if you have titled queens and studs, you aren’t ready to jump into breeding. A good breeder will have numerous cat shows under their belts, and they will be highly knowledgeable when it comes to the breed. Current top breeders suggest gleaning as much information as possible and even asking a current top breeder to mentor you – first with shows, and second with breeding.

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14
Feb
2008

You should always take your new kitty to the vet as soon as possible after you bring it home.  This acquaints you with the veterinary clinic you’ll be using and the procedures for getting an appointment there, and also let you meet the veterinary, and the veterinary meet your kitten!  It also means that your kitten can have an initial examination and get treatment for any kitty ailments that it might have if you have bought the kitten from a pet store or farm then it is possible it may have worms or ear mites that can be easily treated.  Depending on the age of you kitten it may also be time for any shots that haven’t already been administered before you took over ownership of the kitten.  One of the basic things that the veterinary will tell you at this visit is whether your kitty is a boy or girl ?don’t automatically assume the original owner got it right, it is not always easy to tell and it is easy to get it wrong!

Knowing when to take your kitty to the vet outside of a normal annual examination however is trickier.  Rather like when you are sick but unsure whether you are sick enough to warrant a doctor time, it is hard to ascertain if your kitten is sick enough to warrant a veterinary’s time ?not to mention the expense!  A good rule of thumb is to remember one very important fact is a kitten’s health can deteriorate rapidly within a few hours even so making a decision to think about it, can mean putting off for a couple of days, you are looking at 24 hours maximum, and if things don’t improve with kitty’s health then you make an appointment and tell the reception how old he is, how long he’s been sick and what the symptoms are.  If he gets worse before 24 hours are up, contact the veterinary clinic immediately and talk to the reception staff that may be able to connect you through to either the veterinary or clinic nurse who can discuss whether or not it sounds dangerous enough to require immediate veterinary help.

Knowing your kitty is part way to knowing when he’s feeling off-color.  By performing a regular informal examination of his movement, eyes, ears, mouth, and general appearance you can see when he’s not himself?  It may be that he be limping or scratching himself more than usual or it could be that a usually active cat is sleeping more than he normally does.  These are all signs that something is amiss and need you to start paying attention.  A kitten that is sleeping all of the time, or has a temperature should always go straight to the veterinary, as he should if you notice he has problems or blood with his urine.

For the most part, cats are quite healthy pets and by learning your kitty’s normal appearance and traits, you can soon pick up on when he’s not feeling well, and a quick phone call to the veterinary clinic can reassure you that he’s almost certainly going to be ok to monitor for the next day or so, or whether you should bring him into the clinic that day.

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11
Feb
2008

One of the most adorable things about kittens is the mischief they are capable of getting into – adorable in someone else’s home anyway! In your own home, where it’s your stuff that the kitten is rolling around the floor, ripping to shreds, or chewing to death, it’s not always as funny. But what’s a kitty owner to do?

Well the first thing is more of a “what not to do” – don’t yell at the kitty! Count to 10 and calm down, and then firmly take hold of your kitten, say “No” in a firm clear voice and put the kitty either in his bed – or in his safe zone if you’ve created one and he’s still using it. The next thing is to identify why your kitten has gotten into this particular mischief – is he bored, did it offer too much temptation, or is he pandering his hunter genes?

Usually it’s a mixture of boredom and practicing his hunting skills that gets a kitten into the most trouble around the house! The boredom leads him to find things like trailing plants, or apples that roll, and they tempt him to playful mischief. A cat loves to hunt however, and so occasionally he will “kill” the odd cushion!

Buying a few cat toys will help teach your kitten what is acceptable to play with and what’s not. A soft ball, not necessarily a small one either – some kitties are quite happy to push something that’s about half their size but not too heavy around the house – is a great toy. A ball made out of scrunched up newspaper is another good way of getting your kitten to play – but make sure that you scrunch it quietly because loud noises will probably scare him. Any toy that has been filled with catnip – some kind of dried herb that cats go crazy over – is destined to keep him amused for hours, but often the most entertaining of all for kitty is a box with large holes cut into it that he can jump in and out of.

A kitten getting up to mischief can often be frustrating, but given the right toys, he’ll not only entertain himself, but he’ll also keep you entertained watching the antics he gets up too. Remember, he’s not intending to be mean when he does something he shouldn’t, he’s just bored, so find something to occupy his mind!

Cat Lover

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