Cat Lovers Unite! | Cat Lovers Only Squidoo Edition

Here are some more funny cat pictures for you to chew on. You can also add your own pics to the site, as well as view or add funny cat videos.

And, have you seen my review of Disney's Aristocats DVD? It's a great movie and has some cool DVD bonus features (video and audio autoplay, so check your speakers).

Let's think like a cat for a minute and try to understand some of the behavioral reasons for not using the litter box. This is such a huge issue, that I thought it deserved some attention here.

1. Dirty Cat Box - You should clean your litter box at least once per day. You should also change your litter out completely at least every few weeks.

2. Box Odor - You need to clean the box to your cat's satisfaction, not yours. When you're finished cleaning it, your cat should not be able to detect the scent of waste, bleach, or cleaners.

3. Litter Smells Bad - Your may have decided that she doesn't like the litter you use. You may have to try different brands or types until you get it right.

4. Wrong Litter Type - Cats develop a preference for texture, and some litter just doesn't feel right... experiment to see what works for your cat.

5. Litter Box Type - The shape, size, and type of box does matter to your cat.

6. Number of Boxes - Use the one plus one rule when selecting how many boxes you'll need in order to prevent traffic jams. One box per cat per household, plus one more.

7. Bad Location - Always try to keep the box in an area that is low traffic and low noise.

8. Territorial Issues - territorial arguments are common and can cause litter box problems.

9. Stress - Stress is a leading cause of box aversion. A low noise area where your cat can sleep comfortably, preferably up high, will help to reduce stress.

These problems can usually be solved, and the solution doesn't mean getting rid of the cat. Read more about the physical and behavioral causes of cat litter box problems.

The two main causes of a cat litter box problem are behavioral issues, and physical problems. The first thing you should do then, is have your vet check out your cat to make sure there are no physical causes.

If your cat learns to link a bad experience with the litter box, she may start to resent the box. If this happens often enough, she may stop using the box altogether. You should be aware that the problem may have a physical cause at the root.

Here are four physical reasons why your cat can't or won't use the box properly.

1. Painful Urination - any medical condition that causes a cat pain while urinating will create a bad association. Since your cat can't hold it forever, she's going to urinate somewhere other than the box at some point. Often, once cats go in a spot, they will return to that spot until you completely remove the odor and/or retrain the cat.

2. Pain During Bowel Movements - constipation and other conditions can cause pain during bowel movements. If this is your cat's problem, she will associate pain with the box. When she does go, it may be on the living room rug, instead of in the box.

3. Joint or Muscle Pain - in order to use the litter box, cats have to be agile enough to get in and out of the box. They also have to be able to squat comfortably. Arthritis, an injury, or any problem with your cat's joints or muscles may cause your cat too much pain. The litter box becomes associated with pain, and your cat doesn't use it.

4. Problems With Motion - perhaps your cat has difficulty climbing up into the litter box. Older cats, or cats who are diseased or have been injured often have limited movement, and aren't able to use the box.

For painful urination, bowel movements, or joint or muscle pain, proper treatment will have to be sought. Once the pain is gone, some retraining will probably be required.

If your cat has a limited mobility problem, there may be some things you can do to help that, in addition to veterinary care. In any case, make it as easy on your cat as possible. A low but large litter box that your cat can easily get in and out of is a good idea.

Once the physical cause of a cat litter box problem is identified by your vet, you can work together to help your cat get better. Remember to address any issue that causes your cat to associate an unpleasant experience with the box as soon as possible. Catching these problems early on makes them much easier to deal with.

Why do cats do what they do?

Here's a collection of cat facts about one of the most important elements of cat behavior to understand, social behavior and interaction. I've tried to include facts that I think are helpful.

If there's one trait that most cat lovers enjoy, it's the independent nature of their feline friends. We usually feel honored when a cat gives us the time of day. A cat that asks for a head rub or a belly scratch is too much to resist.

If you often wonder what your cat is thinking, you're not alone. Cats are mysterious creatures and we're often not sure why they behave the way they do.

As a good pet owner, though, one of your responsibilities is to learn how to better care for your cat. Here are some unique cat facts that may help you better understand your feline friend.

1. I need time to be alone. The ancestor of the domestic cats we have today lived alone. They were not pack animals like dogs. Although cats do sometimes form colonies, they usually time share their territory with other cats when they are forced to live close together.

2. Kitten's get their friendly traits from their father's genes (mostly), and their mother's teachings.

3. A kitten's socialization process is most important when she is between two and seven weeks old.

4. When a cat experiences a trauma, it can go through a second socialization process during recovery. This can result in the cat becoming friendlier than before the trauma. Unfortunately, it can go the other way and make the cat more aloof as well.

5. Domestic cats descended from solitary creatures. Being solitary and hunting alone by nature, they have a limited set of communication skills, especially body language.

6. In order to make up for a limited set of communication skills, cats need to use scent markings to send and receive messages. They also need to be fast and agile!

7. Your cat will rub her scent glands all over her territory in order to leave her mark. She'll also rub her scent on you and other animals in the house. This creates a communal scent indicating that these animals are part of her social group.

8. When you scratch your cat's back, she raises up her back end so as to better scent your hand. Commonly, cats will also often keep their tails bent but stiff during the scenting process.

9. The tail up is a sign of happiness. It is also used as a greeting. If people had tails they could raise, cats would like us more.

10. If the front paws are curled up and tucked in, your cat feels comfortable and safe. A relaxed cat will often also extend the back feet out to the side while tucking in the front paws.

Hopefully, at least some of these cat facts surprise you. If you read between the lines, most will allow you to better understand cats. Now, go communicate with your kitty!

Here are several pages of cat facts for you to enjoy.

Litter boxes:

Long haired cats and the litter box:

Some long haired cats prefer to eliminate on a smooth surface, such as the bottom of the litter box, rather than on the litter itself.

Typically, they'll move all the litter to one side of the box to expose the bottom, and then cover things up when they are done. Frankie is famous around the house for doing this, as well as for being pretty good on the drums.

The sandbox is anyone's toilet:

It's a good idea to remember that outdoor sandboxes make good toilets for cats. Watch out!

Catnip and catnip oil:

Other names for the catnip herb:
catmint, catswort, field balm

Catnip has been shown in studies to not only repel, but also kill termites!

Nepetalactone is the name of the essential oil in catnip that gives it its aromatic odor. It's also the stuff that drives cats crazy!

Nepetalactone has been found to be 10 times more effective at repelling mosquitoes than DEET - the chemical insect repellent.

Here are some more interesting cat facts for you to chew on.

Worms in cats are a common occurrence, especially in kittens, and your vet will test for them once per year. Testing is done by way of a stool sample.

Worms are parasites that feed off of their host. In this case, the host is your cat. There are a number of cat parasites, but there are three major players when it comes to intestinal worms.

Roundworms, tapeworms, and hookworms are the main types of worms found in cats. Fecal exam is the method of diagnosis and should be done during an annual check up.

Typically, cats that share litter boxes will all be afflicted. A fecal sample from one cat, therefore, is usually sufficient to determine if an infestation exists in the home. By the same token, it is recommended that treatment be given to all cats sharing litter boxes if one of them is infected.

Below is an overview on each of the major types of worms found in cats. See this page for more detailed information on cat worms and this page for more about cat parasites in general.

Roundworms - Roundworms (Toxocara Cati) look like spaghetti, and are usually only visible when vomited up. Kittens can become infected with roundworm via their mothers. This is the case even if the mother cat shows no signs of infection. The encysted form of the roundworm lies dormant in the mother cat, and is passed to the kitten. Usually, even if test results are negative, veterinarians will worm kittens 2-3 times to be sure.

Mature cats often develop a natural immunity against roundworm. Adult cats, therefore, do not usually exhibit symptoms due to this parasite.

Hookworms - Hookworms hook themselves to the inside wall of your cat's intestines and hang on. Since they're tissue feeders, hookworms can cause blood loss, resulting in anemia. In addition, you may observe weight loss, intestinal illness, and poor hair coat. Most of the roundworm treatments used today will kill hookworms as well. Two or more treatments are required to eradicate this worm.

Tapeworms - Tapeworms consist of segments containing eggs. The segments drop off the worm, and along with the eggs are passed in the stool. They then dry out and begin to look like grains of rice and are fairly easy to spot. You'll sometimes see them in heavily traveled areas or around the cat's anus. Cats with these worms have been known to experience anal irritation and exhibit excessive licking.

Since these worms are transmitted by fleas, flea control is essential. Your cat eats the flea after the flea eats the tapeworm egg. The tapeworm then lives in the intestinal tract of your cat, and is able to start the process over.

Usually, there will be no visible signs of illness in your cat from tapeworms. Remember that as long as there are fleas, your cat is at risk. Until you completely get rid of the fleas, a potential tapeworm problem exists.

Intestinal worms in cats can be present without any sign of visible illness. Since cat parasites put undue stress on your kitty, you should do what you can to keep his/her immune system strong. That includes not only regular vet visits, but also high quality food, regular exercise, and the room to explore.

Learn more about problems like intestinal worms in cats and other feline health issues. This and other unique content 'worms in cats' articles are available with free reprint rights.

Although cat roundworm is typically less severe than other worms, it should not be ignored. Infections are quite common, and your vet should be testing your kitten at the initial check ups and vaccination visits. Typically, kittens are treated even when they test negative. A fecal flotation exam should be done once per year at your cat's annual check up.

Here are 7 important points concerning cat roundworm.

1. How your cat contracts it - Roundworms initially get into the intestinal tract of your cat through the mouth. This can be from eating infected rodents or insects, or by coming in contact with eggs in the environment. This makes roundworm potentially more common in outdoor cats or cats that are let out to hunt. Kittens can get it from their mothers, who may not show signs of the disease.

2. Cat roundworm infestation is common - The infection rate in kittens is so high that some sources claim that almost all kittens have roundworm. An untreated case of roundworms in a kitten may result in death, although most cases are not severe.

3. What roundworm is - Cat roundworm (Toxascaris leonina and Toxocara cati) according to Cornell University's Feline Health Center, are the most common of the feline intestinal parasites. T. leonina may also infect dogs, so your cat's housemate or neighbor may have it too. Infection rates are an estimated 25 to 75% (higher in kittens).

4. When you see them - Adult roundworms described as having thin, tubelike bodies that resemble strands of spaghetti. I know that's not very appealing, but you usually won't see them unless your cat vomits them up, which is also not very appealing. They are white-ish or cream in color.

5. Where they go once inside - Unlike hookworms and some others, roundworms are not tissue feeders. They do not attach themselves to the inside intestinal wall, but freely swim in the gut of the cat. The lifecycle is different for Toxascaris and Toxocara. T. leonina go straight to the intestines and take two to three months to mature. T. cati, on the other hand, migrate through tissue wall making their way to the throat via the lungs and back into the intestines.

6. What happens next - While inside your cat, female roundworms produce fertile eggs. Those eggs pass through the cat's intestines and out into the world in the feces. It takes up to several weeks for them to develop into the infective larva stage. It is interesting to note that they can remain infective for years.

7. How to prevent infection - Deworming queens prior to pregnancy may keep kittens from getting them that way. This is not always the case, though, since encysted forms of the worm are not killed by medications. The best recommendations for general prevention are restricting cats from roaming and hunting, and control of rodent and insect populations.

Although common, roundworm infections are usually not nearly as serious for your cat as compared to other intestinal parasites. In fact, your cat can have a case of roundworm and still appear quite healthy.

Unfortunately, if the intestines become blocked by a large enough number of worms, roundworm can become life-threatening. Kittens in particular are at risk. In addition, adult cats with compromised immune systems or certain pre-existing conditions will be at risk, as are older cats.

If you have an at risk kitten or older cat at home, you should have a discussion with your veterinarian about cat roundworm infection and treatment.

Visit the website for cat lovers and get more information about worms in cats and other feline health issues. You can get a unique content version of this article.

Most cats will battle a parasite of some sort at some point in their lives. There are four types of hookworm that may possibly infect your cat. Ancylostoma tubaeforme is known as the feline hookworm, and Ancylostoma braziliense is known as the canine and feline hookworm. Uncinaria stenocephala is known as the northern canine hookworm. Ancylostoma caninum, or the canine hookworm, is said by some authoritative sources not to infect cats, but rather only foxes, dogs, and perhaps humans.

Risks of hookworm -- Critical risk factors include hygiene and environmental factors. Outdoor cats are more likely than indoor cats to contract the worm, and this is the case with most parasites. Cats that roam and hunt are always at higher risk. The worm may be more prevalent where sanitation control issues and overcrowding exists, such as certain shelters. Frequency of infestations may be higher in warmer climates, as hookworms typically enjoy warm, moist environments. U. stenocephala, however, is more common in colder weather.

What they do to your cat -- In contrast to roundworm, which swim freely in the cat's intestines, the hookworm will anchor itself to the cat's intestinal wall and suck blood from the tissue. In order to ensure a constant supply of blood flow and nutrients, they inject an anti-coagulant at the feeding site to keep the blood from clotting. Clever, huh? One of the problems that can occur is that if the hookworm moves its feeding location, the old location may continue to bleed into the bowel. All this blood loss results in anemia.

Signs and symptoms -- The anemia does the most damage in either kittens or cats already challenged by other illnesses or conditions. Blood transfusions may be required, and there may be a risk of death, but only in the rare serious case. The presence of cat hookworm in may cause any of the following symptoms: black tarry stools, bloody diarrhea, weight loss, anemia, weakness, pale gums, and poor coat. In kittens, we may see stunted growth as well.

Methods of transmission and lifecycle -- An animal can become infected by ingestion of larvae. This can be through contaminated water or soil, or by eating an infected transport host (such as when a cat eats a rodent). Larvae can also infect your cat by penetrating the skin (usually the feet). In addition, infected mothers may pass the disease on in their milk.

Cat hookworms have a direct life cycle, meaning that they can be transmitted without a host. Many other parasites require a host.

Adult hookworms hook themselves to the intestinal wall and begin feeding. They pass microscopic eggs into the bowel of the cat, which ultimately end up in the cat's stool. The eggs hatch and develop into larvae (immature worms). The Centers for Disease Control state that under the right conditions of moisture and temperature, eggs can develop into the infective larvae stage in as few as five days. Time varies, though, and this process may take up to three weeks or so. According to most sources, the larvae can exist in the soil and remain infective for many months.

If the hookworm larvae enter through skin penetration, they'll migrate via the circulatory system to the lungs. From the lungs, they'll find their way to the throat, where they are swallowed. The cycle begins again when they may mature and begin producing eggs in the intestine.

In cats, prenatal infection (infection through transplacental blood flow prior to birth) has not been established to occur, as it does in dogs. Kittens, according to some sources, can become infected as well through ingesting the milk of an infected queen (transmammary), but others state otherwise, or that it has not been established.

Cat hookworm treatment and diagnosis -- Healthy cats may show few, if any symptoms in less severe cases. For this reason, cats should be tested yearly for worms. Hookworm eggs are microscopic, so you'll have to rely on your vet using a microscope to examine your cat's stool. Typically, kittens are treated for hookworm during their vaccination series, whether or not they test positive. In order to completely cure a cat of a hookworm infection, at least two treatments of deworming medication are needed. Typically, treatments are administered at 2 - 3 week intervals.

The website for cat lovers keeps you informed about cat hookworm and other cat health problems. This and other unique content 'cat hookworm' articles are available with free reprint rights.

Feline illness symptoms often overlap, just as in humans, and it's often hard to really know your cat's level of wellness. The various cat health problems your cat may face are many and varied, and some can have subtle signs. Since your cat can't tell you how she's feeling, you'll have to be observant.

Generally speaking, your cat is at higher risk for developing an illness if she has been stressed in some way. Those stresses may come from other pre-existing health problems, or a life change of some kind. Examples of this might include recent injury or immune disease, or a recent surgery. Life changing events may also include the addition or removal of a family member or other pet, or perhaps you've recently moved.

Cats can catch a cold or the flu, or develop any number of feline specific problems, such as cat parasites. She can also be affected by heart disease, certain cancers, and diabetes. Some of these cat health issues will require treatment.

If your cat is not acting right it may turn out to be nothing. Even so, if you see any of these signs, call your veterinarian and get instructions on the best course of action. If things get worse, your vet will already be engaged. Below are some problems to watch out for.

General indications -- General cat health issues are sometimes similar to what you might experience if you had the flu, a cold, an injury, or an infection. You may see your cat coughing or sneezing. In addition, nasal discharge, lethargy, a fever, or sometimes excessive drooling may be present.

More serious indications of feline illnesses are excessive vomiting or blood in the vomit, signs of pain, or evidence of worms. If at any time you notice that your cat faints or falls down, has difficulty breathing, jumping, or walking, contact your veterinarian right away. You should also be concerned by rapid weight loss or gain, or a bloated appearance or tightness in the abdomen.

Behavior patterns -- If your cat exhibits a dramatic change in routine or behavior, she may be ill. Changes in sleeping habits may be a sign of trouble. In addition, excessive licking, scratching, or unusual showings of aggression may be signs that something is amiss. If your normally social kitty hides in a corner for a long period, that may also mean that something is not right.

Thirst and appetite -- Cats, and other animals, will often go off food when they're ill, so loss of appetite is usually a sign of a cat health problem. Other signs may include trouble chewing or eating, or leaning over the drinking bowl but refusal to drink. Increased thirst is a sign of a number of diseases, including diabetes, and failure to drink can lead to life threatening dehrydation.

Cats are very good at hiding pain and discomfort, so it's possible to miss the warning signs. Take note of your cat's typical patterns of behavior, including drinking, eating, levels of activity, and litter box usage. If you see a change that may indicate a problem, have your cat checked.

Groom your cat at least once a week, preferably more. This is an excellent time to examine your cat for these warning signs. Your cat's attention will be occupied by the grooming, and you can examine her while she's distracted. Checking your cat regularly will help you keep on top of any cat health problems that may arise.

Kurt Schmitt has put together a 150 plus page cat lover resource. Once there, you'll find many articles on cat health problems , as well as cat care information, and funny cat pictures too. You are welcome to reprint this article - but get your own unique content version here.

Cats and people come from very different worlds. As such, it's amazing that we can live together so well. These cat care tips cover subjects such as bringing out your kitty's hunting instincts, and preventing litter box problems. Following these tips will help you and your kitty to better bond and enjoy each other's company.

1. Handle your cat as much as possible - if you do this, she'll do better when it comes time to get checked by the vet or have her claws trimmed. Some cats just don't like to be picked up no matter what. But, if you can start handling your cat often when she's a kitten, chances are good she'll better accept it later in life.

2. Give your cat a quickie physical - grooming sessions are a good time to examine your cat for common health problems. Check for fleas, ear mites, and signs of pain, swelling, or injury. Check your cat's eyes, teeth, gums, ears, skin, and limbs for problems.

3. Provide a window seat - domestic cats love warmth so much that they've been known to singe their fur on hot stoves. Cats love to sunbathe, so set up a nice comfortable bed for your cat by a window so she can have her place in the sun.

4. Keep your cat indoors - every major cat care organization recommends keeping your cat indoors for safety, better health, and a longer life. Cats can live out a healthy life indoors, get the exercise they need, and survey their territory from a nice spot in front of the window.

5. Let your cat hunt - no, don't let your cat hunt mice outdoors. Instead, spread some treats around the house and bring out the hunting instincts in your cat. This will make feeding time a bit more fun. Also, your cat will probably enjoy it if you toss dry food bits and let her chase them down.

6. Lots of litter boxes - the objective is to have a fresh, available box to use at any given time for each cat. Some cats don't like using a box that was recently used, even if they were the one to use it. So, follow the one plus one rule, which is one box for each cat in the house plus one more additional box.

7. Keep a clean cat box - clean the box twice a day and change the litter every few weeks. When you do, thoroughly clean the box and use bleach to disinfect. Keeping the box squeaky clean will help prevent any possible litter box problems that might arise.

8. Cat play - play games with your cat on a regular basis. Play fetch, or dangle toys for your cat. Get your cat exercising every day and you'll help lower risks of diabetes, heart conditions, and other diseases. I highly recommend you chase your cat around the house whenever you can.

9. Provide a variety of interesting cat toys - always leave your cat's favorite toys accessible, but rotate the others to keep it interesting. You should not leave your cat unsupervised while playing with most toys, however, as injury can occur. Also, a shoe lace, belt, or rope, if used safely, can make a great interactive toy. Playing with toys provides exercise for your cat, and fun for both of you.

10. Get your cat a playmate - every cat lover knows that two cats are better than one. When you can't pay attention to your cat, another cat in the house will. A second cat around the house will offer comfort, encourage exercise, and reduce boredom. Bored kitties are candidates for behavior problems, and are more likely to cause mischief.

Giving in to your cat's instincts will make your kitty a better adjusted family member. More touching will bring you closer and make your cat more social, and keeping your cat indoors will keep her safe. The cat care tips concerning the litter box will save you some headache, and keeping your cat in good shape and never bored will keep her happy, and both of you out of trouble.

For at least 15 more practical cat care tips see Kurt Schmitt's website for cat lovers. Get a totally unique version of this article from our article submission service

1. Morris the Cat from Nine Lives Fame
2. The Pink Panther
3. Sylvester from Warner Brothers Cartoon Fame
4. Kitty Kat, the pet lion from The Addams Family TV show
5. Snagglepuss, the pink mountain lion from Hanna-Barbera cartoons. Known for such catchphrases as "Exit, stage left!" and "Heavens to Murgatroyd!"
6. Felix the Cat was the first cartoon cat to appear in film.
7. Orangey, otherwise known as Minerva, and sometimes billed as "Rhubarb the Cat" who won two PATSY awards for acting. One of those awards was for her role as "Cat" in Breakfast at Tiffany's.
8. D.C. from Disney's 1965 Film, That Darn Cat!... "It takes a Siamese secret agent to unravel the PURR-fect crime!"

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