Owner's Guide to Heart Disease in Cats

Heart disease in cats is a relatively common condition. It can be very difficult to detect in early stages since most common exhibit no symptoms.....

Owner's Guide to Heart Disease in Cats

Heart disease in cats is a relatively common condition. It can be very difficult to detect in early stages since most common exhibit no symptoms. Felines of any age or breed are at risk for developing heart problems. So, what are some of the most common types?

Types

There are three main types of feline heart disease. They include restrictive, dilative, and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Dilative cardiomyopathy is a condition in which the muscular walls of the heart become thinner and weaker. The hypertrophic variety is characterized by the walls become more rigid and thicker. The restrictive type is less common and occurs when the walls are progressively replaced by scar tissue.

Symptoms

Feline heart disease can be fatal quickly and suddenly since cats usually experience no symptoms early on. When signs do appear, they may be very subtle and hard to notice if you're not paying close attention. Common symptoms include difficulty breathing, vomiting, loss of appetite, and breathing with an open mouth. More severe signs include paralysis, fainting, and sudden death.

Diagnosis

Most vets usually only find something wrong with your cat's heart during routine examinations. A heart murmur could suggest that your cat may be having problems with his heart. A variety of tests will likely be done including chest x-rays, echocardiograms, and electrocardiograms. An echocardiogram is one of the more useful tests for determining exactly what problems exist if any.

Treatment

Heart disease in cats can usually be controlled effectively as long as the heart hasn't started to fail already. Treatment include administering diuretics to remove excess fluid so that the heart doesn't have to work as hard. If your cat has hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, he will need to take calcium channel blockers to reduce the stiffness of the muscular walls.

Vasodilators are medications that lower blood pressure. This also helps reduce the heart's workload. Other common medications used to treat this condition are aspirin and betablockers.

By D Swain
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/

Four Common Causes of Hair Loss in Cats

Four Common Causes of Hair Loss in Cats--Fleas**Mites**Ringworm**Medical Conditions**

Four Common Causes of Hair Loss in Cats

There are many potential causes of hair loss in cats. Some conditions are minor and easy to deal with, while others can be a bit more serious. Let's take a look at some of the main reasons why your cat's fur could be falling out.

Fleas

If your cat spends a lot of time outside, then he will easily be exposed to fleas. One of the more common reasons why cats start losing their hair is because they're allergic to flea bites. Also, it doesn't take many of these parasites to cause a problem, as some cats develop an intense reaction to just one bite. This condition can be treated using effective flea control, antihistamines, and steroids.

Mites

Another parasite that can cause hair loss in cats is the mite. Mange is a condition that can be brought on by various species of mites. An infestation of these parasites will cause intense itching that prompts your cat to lick and chew himself excessively. This eventually causes the hair to fall out. Mites can be dealt with by using medicated shampoos. Cats with longer hair will also need to get it trimmed closely.

Ringworm

Ringworm is caused by a fungus that can also affect dogs and humans. If it affects your cat, it will cause hair to fall out especially around the ears, paws, and face. Your cat will also develop dry, flaky skin in the affected areas. Ringworm can be treated using either topical or oral medications.

Medical Conditions

There are a range of medical conditions that can cause hair loss in cats. These disorders usually affect the thyroid or adrenal gland. Addison's and Cushing's disease are two conditions that affect the adrenal gland. The former is characterized by increased adrenal activity, while the other results from decreased in activity from the adrenal gland.

Two other disorders that can cause feline hair loss are hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Like their names suggest, they are brought on by problems with the thyroid gland. These hormone imbalances are common reasons why cats start to lose their hair.

These are some of the most common causes of hair loss in cats. Now that you know this, you should learn about other conditions that can affect your feline like chronic renal failure. Cat-illnesses.com provides a wealth of information on a wide range of diseases. So, stop by today to learn about some of them such as the feline leukemia virus.

By D Swain
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/

Tips to Having an Outdoor Cat

If you have a cat like this or if you want your cat to live outside then there are a few precautions and things that you should do. You need to make sure that you keep them as safe as you can even though you can't keep your eyes on them all the time.....

Tips to Having an Outdoor Cat

When it comes to deciding what type of cat you want to adopt there are a few things that you first have to think about. You want to make sure that you are getting a breed that will behave around children if you have any or that can be left alone all day if you have to work. One of the biggest questions people ask themselves is whether or not they should let their cats be indoor or outdoor cats.

Many people will make arguments on this subject and the majority of them will tell you to keep them indoors. This is fine for some cats - but what about the ones that love to be outside? I owned a cat that did all it could to get outside. We were afraid something would happen to her so we never let her - but she did end up by escaping every chance she got. It was really sad to see and I wonder even now whether or not we should have let her have her way.

If you have a cat like this or if you want your cat to live outside then there are a few precautions and things that you should do. You need to make sure that you keep them as safe as you can even though you can't keep your eyes on them all the time.

The most important thing you should do (for both indoor and outdoor cats) is to spay or neuter them. When your male cat is not neutered they will fight often and will be at risk for open wounds that can cause serious infections. When you male cat is neutered they will usually stay close to home and will not have the desire to fight as much as usual. And of course when they aren't fixed they have a tendency of knocking up other people's cats and those owners don't appreciate it.


When you don't spay your female cat she will be at risk of getting pregnant and then you will have many kittens on your hand. Plus they will be in heat and when this happens they become irritable. You don't want an irritable cat on your hands!

Outdoor cats need to get vaccinated to prevent them from getting any infectious diseases. It will also help them if they get into fights with other cats or animals. Infections can be caused from these wounds. They also need to be wormed on a regular basis because they will go hunting often.

Your cat will explore and have a tendency to wander off every now and then. Sometimes they will lose the scent and will get lost. That is why you always need to keep a collar on them with your name and phone number. That way if your cat is found by someone else and if they are injured or just lost they can be brought back to you. Make sure that the collar you give them has a safety catch or is elasticized. This helps them to get free it they get caught on something.

Some owners place a tiny microchip under the cat's skin. This microchip has an identification number specific to your outdoor cat. The majority of cat rescue centers will scan for this microchip and match it to the address that they have on file.

You will find that your Outside Cat will be very healthy in the fact that they will constantly be getting exercise. For tips on how to keep them from getting into fights and other helpful tips visit Cat Health.

By Naomi West
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/

How Can Rabies Hurt Your Cat?

How Can Rabies Hurt Your Cat?

When you have a cat that lives outdoors or that spends some of its time outside then you need to make sure that you are keeping them up to date with all of their shots. Keep in mind that while they are out in the wild they will hunt many types of animals to eat for a snack and maybe even bring a few of them home as a present to you.

That is why you need to be on the outlook for any strange behavior that your cat might be experiencing. One of the many diseases that they could contract from other animals is rabies. Rabies is a disease that occurs when a virus is attacking an animals' brain. In most cases this disease is fatal.

There are three different stages to rabies. The first stage is the "prodromal" phase that is a marked change in temperament. You will notice that a normally quiet cat will become more agitated and the more active cat will become shy and nervous. Some of the more prominent signs that your cat has been affected with rabies are dilated pupils, too much drooling, and trying to catch objects that are not there.

The first phase will last 2 to 3 days before the second phase kicks in. During the second phase or "excitatory" phase there will be an exaggerated response to any type of stimulus. The cat will have unusual changes in what they eat. You may notice that they will try to eat sticks, stones, and other inedible objects. The cat will also start to walk around aimlessly and try to hurt itself. This is when they begin to fully express an aggressive behavior towards people and other animals. Seizures may also occur.

The symptoms of rabies may stop there or continue to the third stage. During the third stage is the "dumb" form. During this time the cat will become very depressed. It will lay down with its mouth open wide and its tongue sticking out. Paralysis will start to kick in before it takes over the whole body.

In order to prevent this and to keep your cat safe from this deadly disease you should vaccinate them. Rabies vaccines are safe and work well. In fact many laws require that your cat have them so that they do not spread it if they catch it. Cats will usually get the vaccine when they are three or four months old.

As you can see Cat Rabies is something that cannot only affect your feline friend - but also you and your family. Pain Relief For Cats will help to keep you informed on how to treat your cats and other Cat Diseases to look for.

By Naomi West
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/

Cat Scratching Posts - Offering Your Cat a Nice Place to Scratch Other Than Your Furniture

Cat Scratching Posts -The entire unit itself will typically be crafted from a sturdier wood and then covered in a material that can stand up to your kitten pawing at it every day. The most common fabric that is used is carpeting....

Cat Scratching Posts -Offering Your Cat a Nice Place to
Scratch Other Than Your Furniture

You decided a few weeks ago that it would be a good idea to adopt a kitty. The kids just love the little guy, but you are starting to have second thoughts because every chance he gets, he is attacking your furniture with his front paws like nobody's business. So, to prevent your furniture from getting ruined, you are going to need to give him something else to destroy and that is why cat scratching posts would come into play.

Not quite sure what cat scratching posts are because you are new to owning a feline? Well, there is not much to them really. Basically, they are designed to be put on a floor and have a base with, you guessed it, a post sticking out of it. The entire unit itself will typically be crafted from a sturdier wood and then covered in a material that can stand up to your kitten pawing at it every day. The most common fabric that is used is carpeting. Now, this is the most basic one that you can get because there are actually others that you could purchase as well. For instance, you could get one that has sisal rope wrapped around its post instead of the carpeting. And, there are others that also have hanging toys built right into them at their top as well.

If you like the idea of giving your kitten something to play with, but think that cat scratching posts will not quite do the trick, do not worry. There are actually a slew of other cat items that you could purchase for your feline to help him get rid of all his energy. For example, you could purchase a kitty gym for him. This item is like large structure that comes with interloping limbs, perches, and tunnels, offering your little guy a great place to jump, run, and even sleep if he wants because like the scratching posts, it too will be covered in carpeting that would provide your feline with one comfy place to take it easy. If you do not have a lot of room to work with, you can also purchase a wide variety of toys for your little companion. There are toys with catnip in it, others that are mechanical and run around the floor by themselves, and many, many more.

For an effortless way to look into cat scratching posts and all the other pet items that you could purchase for your companion, the thing to do is to go online and comparison shop. Just by the simple glide and click of your computer mouse can you see everything that is out there. Plus, finding it at the best prices possible is easy too and what you buy will be sent right to you. Thus, no wasting time or money on a trip to the store.

In the end, if your kitten likes to scratching your furniture, give him a better alternative with cat scratching posts. One would definitely be a smart investment.

Author Jennifer Akre is the proprietor of a variety of niche online stores that offer products and information relating to furnishing and decorating indoor and outdoor living areas. Plus, products that will make your furry companion feel at home. Today, she shares her insight when investing in those necessary cat supplies and puppy supplies Each will be helpful in getting your new companion adjusted to his or her new space.
By Jennifer Akre
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/

Cat Collars - They Are a Necessity

Cat Collars - Recovery-Catching-Walking,Choosing Cat Collars-Choking-Harness-Formal Cat Collars....

Cat Collars - They Are a Necessity

When most people think of pet collars they only think of dog collars. After all, there are dog parks, dog walks and even dog beaches that require this type of fitting for a canine member of the family. But what about your cat? Have you ever considered cat collars?

There are a number of reasons that you should consider one for your feline friend.

Recovery

The first reason you should make sure your cat has cat collars is that if you have an outdoor cat and it gets lost, picked up by animal control or injured, your contact information will help the authorities find you so you can be reunited with your pet. This also lets the authorities know your pet is up to date on its medical coverage.

Catching

If your cat is a dasher and likes to take runs out the back door from time to time, this pet item can help you corral your pet and get it back into the house. Just like the dog ones, they are a great place to reach down and grab to stop your cat in its tracks.

Walking

Believe it or not there are a lot of cats that like to go for a walk. Just like dogs enjoy a good stroll, many cats do as well. If your cat is one of these, make sure they are legal. You should always use cat collars. Just as dogs must be on a leash, your cat needs to be as well.

Choosing Cat Collars

Once you know you need cat collars for your pet, you need to decide which type you want to purchase.

There are some concerns that you need to keep in mind with them that you don't need to worry about as much with dogs.

Choking

Most cats are climbers and adventurers. They will make their way through trees, onto rooftops, and anything else they can get into as they are on the prowl. All of their adventuring is also a threat for more ways to get stuck or possibly choke while wearing this pet item. Imagine if your cat is jumping from tree branch to branch and their collar becomes caught on a branch. This could be a very sad ending for your kitty unless you have thought of this in advance. Some cat collars actually breakaway. Meaning if the full weight of your cat is pulling on it, it will break away so your cat will be able to get free instead of choking.

Harness

If you are just starting to train your cat to like cat collars, you may want to start with a harness. These offer less pulling on your cat's neck and get them used to being walked at the same time.

Formal Cat Collars

If you have an indoor cat, you may decide the only reason for one is decoration. No problem. There are all sorts of great decorative options out there from leather ones that will make your cat look rough and tough to pink and purple rhinestones for the more feminine kitty.

Author Jennifer Akre is the proprietor of a variety of niche online stores that offer products and information relating to furnishing and decorating indoor and outdoor living areas. Plus, products to make your new furry companion feel right at home in your house. Today, she shares her insight when investing in luxurious cat furniture and all those necessary pet supplies. Each would be a great purchase.
By Jennifer Akre
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/

Of Mice And Cat Strollers

They are both indoor cats, but they love to go outside...The cat stroller looks like a baby stroller except there is a zipped screen that covers the opening**Most of the time the cat stroller hangs in the garage and the cats sleep in the house....

Of Mice And Cat Strollers

When the cat stroller arrived I was very excited to use it. I brought the stroller in the house and put both cats in it. One of my cats is a twenty pound seal point Siamese...

Last year I was looking through a mail order catalog that features a wide range of items. Most of the items are for gift giving or holiday decorating. The company puts out a catalog for each season of the year and includes the holidays of the season. They have a special section for pets. In this section they have pet toys, clothing and treats. In the catalog I was looking through they had a new item, a cat stroller. I immediately decided that this is what I wanted for my birthday present.

I showed the picture of the cat stroller to my husband and asked him to get it for me as my birthday present. He thought this was too strange. He said that the cats would not go in the stroller. I have two cats. They are both indoor cats, but they love to go outside. I thought this would be a fun way for them to be outside with me and still be safe. The cat stroller looks like a baby stroller except there is a zipped screen that covers the opening. You place the cat inside the stroller then zip it shut, preventing them from jumping out. The screen material allows them to look out.

My husband told me to order the cat stroller if I wanted it, but he cautioned that I should not leave the yard with it the first few times I had the cats out, in case something would go wrong and they figured out how to escape. When the cat stroller arrived I was very excited to use it. I brought the stroller in the house and put both cats in it. One of my cats is a twenty pound seal point Siamese. The other is a ten pound alley cat. It was a tight fit, but I managed to get the screen covering zipped. I then carried the stroller down the steps and rolled down the driveway. The cats were fighting and meowing the entire time. I rolled down our driveway and walked the short distance to the neighbor’s house and rolled up their driveway. They saw me coming through their windows and came out to see if I was babysitting one of our grandchildren. They could not believe that I had the two cats in the carriage.

The cats were not happy and they continued to meow and fight with each other. The smaller cat has her claws and she had one caught in the screening. I managed to get the stroller home and let the cats out on the step. On the way home one of the wheels came off the front of the cat stroller. As I was taking the cats out I noticed the warning that stated that the stroller had a twenty pound capacity. I have used the stroller with one cat at a time; they do not like their walks as much as I thought they would. Most of the time the cat stroller hangs in the garage and the cats sleep in the house.

Author: John Wellington
Article Source: www.article99.com