One of the most aquatic of all cats, the Flat Headed Cat shares many attributes with the fishing cat, and yet is one of the most unique of all felids. A small wild cat, the Flat Headed Cat is nearly two feet in length and weighs around six pounds. The distinguishing feature is the flattened head owing to the unusual skull morphology in this member of the cat family. The coat is usually dark brown with white streaks running along the sides of nose below the large eyes that provide binocular visions. Ears are small and the snout is of a sloping appearance. Legs and tail are short. Toes have webbing that is more enhanced than that of the fishing cat, with long thin pads. Claws are not totally retractable like some other members of the cat family. This unique body structure is designed to assist the Flat Headed Cat in its hunting lifestyle as a small predator of its aquatic habitat. The molars are sharper than other cats and basically assist this interesting cat in holding on to slippery fish. Prionailurus Planiceps, the Flat Headed Cat is a nocturnal hunter. It is seen in tropical rain forests hunting alongside river banks, marshes and wetlands. Usual prey includes fish, frog and shrimps though rodents and chicken are also taken at times. They also have been known to like fruit and consume sweet potatoes by digging them up in plantations. Flat Headed Cats have been observed in captivity to be very fond of water and submerge completely in search of prey and toys. Not much is known about these cute cats in their natural environment owing to their rarity and elusive nature. The gestational period is believed to be nearly two months after which a litter of one to four kittens is born. Lifespan in captivity is known to be up to fourteen years. The Flat Headed Cat was thought to have gone extinct in 1985 but fortunately was seen again in 1995. The darling cat is still classified as vulnerable and is seen in select locations in countries of Southeast Asia. Principal threat is habitat destruction through water pollution and clearing for human settlements. However recent discovery of Flat Headed Cats in palm oil plantations, surviving on rats, is encouraging evidence of the tenacity of this unique cat to survive in various habitats! The author is a blogger about cats and an expert on flat headed cat. Learn more about cats here: http://ailurophiles.blogspot.com Article Source:http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Omer_AshrafCat - Rescue Cats Do you want to give a cat a new home? Then you may be interested in a "rescue cat". Many cats are abandoned by their owners or are left roaming the streets. These cats not only have a poor standard of life but they also are vulnerable to illness and disease. This is no good for any cat. Besides, we all deserve to be loved! Rescue cats are cats that have been saved from a life of scavenging or even saved from death because of their cruel and cowardly owners. Unfortunately, other owners cannot keep a cat because of lack of space, lack of funds or through illness. Rescue cats are cats that may have found a brighter future. There are organisations that are specifically dedicated to saving and rehoming unfortunate cats. They are usually run by volunteers who all share their love for cats. They raise money through donations and can provide the cats in their charge with shelter, food and veterinary care. They aim to rehouse all their cats into homes that are suitable for them to live in. Most times, however, prospective owners wish to have cute cats or kittens. In this case, the older or more infirm cats get left behind, destined to spend the rest of their lives in the cat home. There are individuals, also, that provide rescue care for helpless cats. They are, once again, dedicated individuals and they often have a connection with the established, or official, rescue homes. Most times, if you wish to have a "rescue cat", you will find that the cat has been well cared for by the rescuer, has been fed and watered well and has had a thorough check up with the veterinary surgeon. They will usually have been neutered if that had not already been done. Rescue cats can provide much love for individuals and families and, by getting one, you can be sure your are helping a cat who really has been in need. |
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Cat - Flat Headed Cat
Friday, October 26, 2007
Cat - Rescue Cats
Do you want to give a cat a new home? Then you may be interested in a "rescue cat". Many cats are abandoned by their owners or are left roaming the streets. These cats not only have a poor standard of life but they also are vulnerable to illness and disease. This is no good for any cat. Besides, we all deserve to be loved! Rescue cats are cats that have been saved from a life of scavenging or even saved from death because of their cruel and cowardly owners. Unfortunately, other owners cannot keep a cat because of lack of space, lack of funds or through illness. Rescue cats are cats that may have found a brighter future. There are organisations that are specifically dedicated to saving and rehoming unfortunate cats. They are usually run by volunteers who all share their love for cats. They raise money through donations and can provide the cats in their charge with shelter, food and veterinary care. They aim to rehouse all their cats into homes that are suitable for them to live in. Most times, however, prospective owners wish to have cute cats or kittens. In this case, the older or more infirm cats get left behind, destined to spend the rest of their lives in the cat home. There are individuals, also, that provide rescue care for helpless cats. They are, once again, dedicated individuals and they often have a connection with the established, or official, rescue homes. Most times, if you wish to have a "rescue cat", you will find that the cat has been well cared for by the rescuer, has been fed and watered well and has had a thorough check up with the veterinary surgeon. They will usually have been neutered if that had not already been done. Rescue cats can provide much love for individuals and families and, by getting one, you can be sure your are helping a cat who really has been in need. If you found this article interesting you can find more help and advice here Article Source:http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eric_HartwellCat - Your Pet's Medicine Chest - Medications To Keep On-Hand We all know that good food, a loving home and plenty of exercise will go a long way in giving your dog and cat a happy and healthy life. But what about those times when some minor illness suddenly appears and it's 10 pm in the evening with no veterinarian available? (For those of you who have small children...you understand how this works). Just like humans, animals can and will occasionally get sick. Considering some of the things animals get into, it's truly amazing our dogs and cats stay as healthy as they do. There are a lot of potential dangers out in that big wide world. "Child" Proofing Your Home For Your Pet Pets are just like children. They are curious explorers that love to check out what's in that overflowing garbage can or see if they really can reach the toilet bowl for a drink before someone catches them. Here are a few guidelines to help you "pet proof" your home: * When you use any pesticides, herbicides, antifreeze, or household cleaning products, make sure they are stored safely away after use. Wash away any extra waste that might have spilled immediately. * It's preferable that you don't let your cat roam the neighborhood. Some people put out rat bait and other such poisons in their gardens and in their garbage. Why? Well, they may have mice in the area which they want to get rid of. They may also be tired of your or someone else's cat constantly getting into their garbage or defecating in their gardens. Believe me, this is a slow, painful death for your pet. I learned the hard way with a much beloved cat of mine. Since then, all of my cats are indoor house cats. * Keep your garbage can lids closed tight. Animals love smelly garbage to explore to find what great human tidbits might be in there. However, that "food" may have some toxic cleaner spilled on it. Those yummy chicken bones are cooked...and splinter, which could cause serious intestinal problems. You get the idea. * Be sure all electrical cords are kept covered or unplugged when not in use. Although not recommended normally, if you have a small puppy or kitten, run the cords under carpets, behind cabinets or heavy furniture that they can't crawl behind. Young pets love to chew...and wires and cords are enticing. * If you use a toilet bowl cleaner that stays in toilet to "clean" with each flush keep the lid down. Animals, especially dogs, love to drink from the toilet for some bizarre reason that only they understand. The chemicals in the cleaner can poison and/or kill. Stocking The Medicine Cabinet So, what to do when your dog or cat gets sick with a minor tummy ache, diarrhea, or some minor infection, including itchy skin? Stock your medicine cabinet with certain human medications that are perfectly fine to give to your pets in the proper dosage. However, you should always consult your veterinarian if possible before administering any type of medication, including dosage amounts of each for each of your animals. Keep a list handy near the cabinet for quick reference on dosages. Here are some items you should keep on hand: * Buffered Aspirin is good for lowering fever and relieving minor aches and pains in dogs. Most people prefer to use baby aspirin. Use approximately 80 mg per every 10 pounds of weight, usually no more than twice a day. NEVER give aspirin to a cat as it's extremely dangerous to them. Also, do not use Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen, as they are also dangerous to pets in general. Stick with the aspirin. * Keopectate is good for soothing stomach troubles and diarrhea in both dogs and cats. A recommended amount would be 1 teaspoon for every 10 pounds of weight roughly every 4 hours. * Gravol for motion sickness if you need to travel with your pet. Administer the tablet one hour before you leave. You should give no more than 12.5 mg to a cat or a small dog. A medium to large dog can handle between 25 to 50 mg. Do not give this to any animal that has bladder problems or glaucoma. Again, check with your vet to be sure if it's safe and what dosage is recommended for your pet. * Pepto-Bismol, that good old pink stuff, is fine to give to your dog if they are having tummy trouble, such as vomiting or a rolling, noisy belly. One teaspoon every 6 hours per pound of body weight should be sufficient. This is another medicinal product that should not be given to cats. * Hydrogen Peroxide and Polysporin for minor cuts and scratches. These will help clean out the wound and hopefully prevent any infection from occurring. All in all, checking up with your vet and keeping some specific medications on hand should help you deal with any minor illnesses you may encounter with your dog and cat. |
Cat - Your Pet's Medicine Chest - Medications To Keep On-Hand
We all know that good food, a loving home and plenty of exercise will go a long way in giving your dog and cat a happy and healthy life. But what about those times when some minor illness suddenly appears and it's 10 pm in the evening with no veterinarian available? (For those of you who have small children...you understand how this works). Just like humans, animals can and will occasionally get sick. Considering some of the things animals get into, it's truly amazing our dogs and cats stay as healthy as they do. There are a lot of potential dangers out in that big wide world. "Child" Proofing Your Home For Your Pet Pets are just like children. They are curious explorers that love to check out what's in that overflowing garbage can or see if they really can reach the toilet bowl for a drink before someone catches them. Here are a few guidelines to help you "pet proof" your home: * When you use any pesticides, herbicides, antifreeze, or household cleaning products, make sure they are stored safely away after use. Wash away any extra waste that might have spilled immediately. * It's preferable that you don't let your cat roam the neighborhood. Some people put out rat bait and other such poisons in their gardens and in their garbage. Why? Well, they may have mice in the area which they want to get rid of. They may also be tired of your or someone else's cat constantly getting into their garbage or defecating in their gardens. Believe me, this is a slow, painful death for your pet. I learned the hard way with a much beloved cat of mine. Since then, all of my cats are indoor house cats. * Keep your garbage can lids closed tight. Animals love smelly garbage to explore to find what great human tidbits might be in there. However, that "food" may have some toxic cleaner spilled on it. Those yummy chicken bones are cooked...and splinter, which could cause serious intestinal problems. You get the idea. * Be sure all electrical cords are kept covered or unplugged when not in use. Although not recommended normally, if you have a small puppy or kitten, run the cords under carpets, behind cabinets or heavy furniture that they can't crawl behind. Young pets love to chew...and wires and cords are enticing. * If you use a toilet bowl cleaner that stays in toilet to "clean" with each flush keep the lid down. Animals, especially dogs, love to drink from the toilet for some bizarre reason that only they understand. The chemicals in the cleaner can poison and/or kill. Stocking The Medicine Cabinet So, what to do when your dog or cat gets sick with a minor tummy ache, diarrhea, or some minor infection, including itchy skin? Stock your medicine cabinet with certain human medications that are perfectly fine to give to your pets in the proper dosage. However, you should always consult your veterinarian if possible before administering any type of medication, including dosage amounts of each for each of your animals. Keep a list handy near the cabinet for quick reference on dosages. Here are some items you should keep on hand: * Buffered Aspirin is good for lowering fever and relieving minor aches and pains in dogs. Most people prefer to use baby aspirin. Use approximately 80 mg per every 10 pounds of weight, usually no more than twice a day. NEVER give aspirin to a cat as it's extremely dangerous to them. Also, do not use Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen, as they are also dangerous to pets in general. Stick with the aspirin. * Keopectate is good for soothing stomach troubles and diarrhea in both dogs and cats. A recommended amount would be 1 teaspoon for every 10 pounds of weight roughly every 4 hours. * Gravol for motion sickness if you need to travel with your pet. Administer the tablet one hour before you leave. You should give no more than 12.5 mg to a cat or a small dog. A medium to large dog can handle between 25 to 50 mg. Do not give this to any animal that has bladder problems or glaucoma. Again, check with your vet to be sure if it's safe and what dosage is recommended for your pet. * Pepto-Bismol, that good old pink stuff, is fine to give to your dog if they are having tummy trouble, such as vomiting or a rolling, noisy belly. One teaspoon every 6 hours per pound of body weight should be sufficient. This is another medicinal product that should not be given to cats. * Hydrogen Peroxide and Polysporin for minor cuts and scratches. These will help clean out the wound and hopefully prevent any infection from occurring. All in all, checking up with your vet and keeping some specific medications on hand should help you deal with any minor illnesses you may encounter with your dog and cat. ========================================== Cat - How to Prevent Cat Litter Box Problems Cats are undoubtedly one of the most popular pets and anyone that has one knows that a cat litter box is probably the least attractive thing about your pet. Cats are known to be finicky about food but the can also where they "do their business". Thankfully, most cats will use their litter box religiously if it is kept clean and they are introduced to it properly. Through the years, specialty pet supplies firms have developed the cat litter box. The principal aim of the cat litter box is to provide the cat with convenient and hygienic restroom where it should urinate and excrete stool. The cat litter box The cat litter box, for many years already, has been providing great comfort to the cat and to the pet owner alike. For the cat's part, the simple and cute furniture will eliminate the need to search further for a place to do its elimination rituals. For the part of the owner, unwanted urine and stool in the most unexpected places of the house will be prevented. Thus, the cat litter box makes up for a good symbiotic relationship between the cat and its owner. There are numerous types of cat litter boxes sold in the market currently. Through the years, manufacturers have been modifying the type of litter they put into the litter box. The preference of the cat, according to experiences and observations, has been the topmost consideration when one decides what type of litter they put into the cat litter box. Preventing cat litter box problems Inevitably, cat litter box problems can not always be avoided. By instinct, cats are very hygienic and will find a safe and discreet place for their bathroom activities. You must probably have observed that even without training, cats dig for a place where they would eliminate, and after they are done, they dig further to cover the urine and the stool. For them, they need to cover their waste for protective reasons so that predators will not be alerted to their whereabouts. Basically, if you have just bought a cat litter box, all you need to do is to place the bo in an accessible place of the house. Do not put the cat litter box in places where the cat will not like it. Pet owners usually have cat litter problems if their litter boxes are placed in the basement, in the attic, in the garage or in anyplace not easily accessable. Buying the right and preferred cat litter box will also be necessary. In the past, cat litter boxes with clay litters had become popular but experiences of cat owners indicate that cats do not prefer clay a litter substrates. Buy cat litter boxes that are containing littering materials that are as fine as sand. This would facilitate for easy digging. Also, make sure the litter is at least two inches deep. Deeper than that, the cat will only have the perception that it is just a trap. Because the market is almost saturated with different types of cat litter boxes, make sure you invest in one that will surely be of great use. Make sure the furniture is big and tall enough so the cat will be comfortable using it. There are covered and uncovered cat litter boxes. The cat's preference will be the basis for choosing between the two. Normally, cats prefer the open space one, but there are also some that are more comfortable in the covered cat litter boxes. To help avoid potential problems, make sure to clean the cat litter box regularly. It is not imperative to clean the furniture daily, but you could just scoop out the stool and urine every other day. If you do so, you need to change the litter substrate every three weeks. Take note that if the cat finds the litter box unhygienic, it will opt to do its elimination rituals elsewhere, much to your annoyance. Bear in mind that like you, cats want their restrooms to be as clean and as comfortable as possible. Buying and maintaining cat litter boxes will be greatly beneficial, and would surely help keep that harmonious relationship between you and your pet. |
Cat - How to Prevent Cat Litter Box Problems
Cats are undoubtedly one of the most popular pets and anyone that has one knows that a cat litter box is probably the least attractive thing about your pet. Cats are known to be finicky about food but the can also where they "do their business". Thankfully, most cats will use their litter box religiously if it is kept clean and they are introduced to it properly. Through the years, specialty pet supplies firms have developed the cat litter box. The principal aim of the cat litter box is to provide the cat with convenient and hygienic restroom where it should urinate and excrete stool. The cat litter box The cat litter box, for many years already, has been providing great comfort to the cat and to the pet owner alike. For the cat's part, the simple and cute furniture will eliminate the need to search further for a place to do its elimination rituals. For the part of the owner, unwanted urine and stool in the most unexpected places of the house will be prevented. Thus, the cat litter box makes up for a good symbiotic relationship between the cat and its owner. There are numerous types of cat litter boxes sold in the market currently. Through the years, manufacturers have been modifying the type of litter they put into the litter box. The preference of the cat, according to experiences and observations, has been the topmost consideration when one decides what type of litter they put into the cat litter box. Preventing cat litter box problems Inevitably, cat litter box problems can not always be avoided. By instinct, cats are very hygienic and will find a safe and discreet place for their bathroom activities. You must probably have observed that even without training, cats dig for a place where they would eliminate, and after they are done, they dig further to cover the urine and the stool. For them, they need to cover their waste for protective reasons so that predators will not be alerted to their whereabouts. Basically, if you have just bought a cat litter box, all you need to do is to place the bo in an accessible place of the house. Do not put the cat litter box in places where the cat will not like it. Pet owners usually have cat litter problems if their litter boxes are placed in the basement, in the attic, in the garage or in anyplace not easily accessable. Buying the right and preferred cat litter box will also be necessary. In the past, cat litter boxes with clay litters had become popular but experiences of cat owners indicate that cats do not prefer clay a litter substrates. Buy cat litter boxes that are containing littering materials that are as fine as sand. This would facilitate for easy digging. Also, make sure the litter is at least two inches deep. Deeper than that, the cat will only have the perception that it is just a trap. Because the market is almost saturated with different types of cat litter boxes, make sure you invest in one that will surely be of great use. Make sure the furniture is big and tall enough so the cat will be comfortable using it. There are covered and uncovered cat litter boxes. The cat's preference will be the basis for choosing between the two. Normally, cats prefer the open space one, but there are also some that are more comfortable in the covered cat litter boxes. To help avoid potential problems, make sure to clean the cat litter box regularly. It is not imperative to clean the furniture daily, but you could just scoop out the stool and urine every other day. If you do so, you need to change the litter substrate every three weeks. Take note that if the cat finds the litter box unhygienic, it will opt to do its elimination rituals elsewhere, much to your annoyance. Bear in mind that like you, cats want their restrooms to be as clean and as comfortable as possible. Buying and maintaining cat litter boxes will be greatly beneficial, and would surely help keep that harmonious relationship between you and your pet. Lee Dobbins writes for http://catlitter.topicgiant.com where you can learn more about choosing the right cat litter box. Article Source:http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lee_DobbinsCat - Households With Pets - Bringing Home Baby Bringing a new baby into a home with pets can be a challenge, especially when the pets are accustomed to being the center of attention. Much like a human child, a dog or cat can become jealous of a new addition to the family and try to compete for your affection. By understanding your pet's feelings and introducing changes gradually, you can make the transition less traumatic and more accommodating for yourself and your pet. To help your pet adjust to the imminent arrival of a new baby, begin making adjustments to your pet's environment before the baby is born. Dogs and cats have heightened senses compared to humans, and become comfortable with the identifiable sounds and smells of your home. A new baby will certainly add new scents and sounds to the mix. Dogs and cats use a powerful sense of smell to gather information about everything in their environment. Gradually introduce the scent of the products that you plan to use for your baby, such as lotions and powders. If possible, have a baby visit your home, and offer positive affection to your pet while the baby scent and sounds are present. It is extremely important to encourage a positive association with the baby sounds and scents by speaking calmly to your pet and giving affection throughout this process. If your pet exhibits behavioral problems such as possessiveness, aggressiveness or dominance, take this behavior very seriously and address it before your baby arrives. Animals innately need to either lead or be led, and it is imperative that you establish your role as the leader in your household. If your pet views you as its leader, it will understand that the baby is your possession and will not challenge you or the baby. It may be necessary and worthwhile to seek the assistance of an animal behavior specialist. Continue to create positive associations for your pet after the baby arrives. If you only reprimand your pet when the baby is around, your pet will associate unhappiness with the baby's presence. Speak calmly and pleasantly to your pet, using his or her name. Help your pet to realize that he or she is getting attention, even if it is not the physical kind. Only give attention to your pet when he or she is demonstrating the calm, accepting behavior you are seeking. There are a lot of techniques that can be used to help a pet adjust to the introduction of a new baby, and all pets are not created equal. If your pet is needy and spoiled with attention, you may opt to incrementally reduce the amount of physical affection that you give your pet before your baby arrives. Helping your pet adjust in a peaceful, gradually changing environment not only benefits your pet, but also eases the demands placed on you once your bundle of joy arrives home. |