Cat Litter Box not Working? Pet going on bed and elsewhere?
If you know that your cat is not ill…
Maybe it’s the litter box, why should it be, you say. Hmm, let’s see.
Are you aware that most boxes are the wrong size?
Your pet propels what’s in the box to the outside. It urinates over it, around it, on the walls adjacent to it. There's no way it can be the litter box, something must be wrong with the cat, right?
Is it attempting to communicate in the only way it knows how, that whoa…something is wrong here, I need help, fix it please.
Lets use the process of elimination to help determine what your feline friend wants you to know about its personal toilet.
a. Is it cleaned often enough or too dirty ? Who wants to smell and walk on stuff that should be removed? Would you?
b. Is the placement away from noisy appliances,air ducts, furnace or anything that may frighten it?
P.S. a dark closet is a no no as proper placement.
c. Could the kind of litter be the problem? Is it one thatyour kitten doesn’t like?
d. Could the size of the box be inadequate? Are thesides really high enough to keep stuff in? Is thereroom for it to easily walk around inside and properly cover things up?
In summation, most of your litter box problems may be related to the size and type of the box and not a problem with your kitty. Therefore one should evaluate your present box and make the necessary changes.
See what simple item can put an end to this dilemma,click on article title above.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Monday, July 7, 2008
Is Your Cat Food Actually Table Scraps? Is This Healthy?
There are many foods that should never be given to your cat. They can be extremely dangerous to its health and /or make it extremely sick.
A few of these foods are listed below and are not considered to be proper cat health care:
Dog Food… If you have a dog and a cat, and the cat eats the dog’s food this is surely a no-no. This type of food is formulated for the body of a canine. It does not have ample protein or taurine that is essential for proper nutrition in cats. If a cat eats dog food consistently it will get sick.
Table Scraps… This is healthy for us, but not good for our cats. The same facts apply to this category. What we eat is not properly formulated for the cat’s nutritional health, especially the lack of taurine. No taurine and ample protein indicates physical disaster for our beloved feline.
Chocolate, in any form… This is extremely toxic to cats and dogs. The pet can become very sick and die. Be really careful not to leave it around in an open container, or bowl where they may ingest it.
Bones and string (even though not a food)… Bones can crack and the little pieces can get lodged in their gums, throat or intestines causing irreparable damage. Cat food should never contain bones of any kind.
I know there are lots of photos showing cats with balls of string and some pet stores sell them for cats, but it should never be given to a cat as a toy. It too, can get lodged in the throat, as well as, causing blockages in the stomach, intestines and anus.
The best food that should be given to a cat is a homemade cooked variety.
Dry foods may be easy for us to administer because it is quick to pour. However, it is very high in carbohydrates that contribute to feline obesity and diabetes.
Canned food with a high content of protein, low content of ash is preferable if one can’t provide the homemade cooked cat food.
There are recipes that take 15 minutes or less to prepare and can be done in a large quantity during the weekend or whenever you have a few spare moments.This will surely go a long way in assisting your cat to stay healthier without eating preservatives and fillers.
So in conclusion, table scraps, bones, chocolate and dog food are not healthy cat food alternatives for your beloved feline.
Check out a quick and easy 15 minutes or less homemade cat food recipe.
Methods for alternative cat health, care and feeding can be viewed at www.allthingscat.com/homemade_cat_food.html
A few of these foods are listed below and are not considered to be proper cat health care:
Dog Food… If you have a dog and a cat, and the cat eats the dog’s food this is surely a no-no. This type of food is formulated for the body of a canine. It does not have ample protein or taurine that is essential for proper nutrition in cats. If a cat eats dog food consistently it will get sick.
Table Scraps… This is healthy for us, but not good for our cats. The same facts apply to this category. What we eat is not properly formulated for the cat’s nutritional health, especially the lack of taurine. No taurine and ample protein indicates physical disaster for our beloved feline.
Chocolate, in any form… This is extremely toxic to cats and dogs. The pet can become very sick and die. Be really careful not to leave it around in an open container, or bowl where they may ingest it.
Bones and string (even though not a food)… Bones can crack and the little pieces can get lodged in their gums, throat or intestines causing irreparable damage. Cat food should never contain bones of any kind.
I know there are lots of photos showing cats with balls of string and some pet stores sell them for cats, but it should never be given to a cat as a toy. It too, can get lodged in the throat, as well as, causing blockages in the stomach, intestines and anus.
The best food that should be given to a cat is a homemade cooked variety.
Dry foods may be easy for us to administer because it is quick to pour. However, it is very high in carbohydrates that contribute to feline obesity and diabetes.
Canned food with a high content of protein, low content of ash is preferable if one can’t provide the homemade cooked cat food.
There are recipes that take 15 minutes or less to prepare and can be done in a large quantity during the weekend or whenever you have a few spare moments.This will surely go a long way in assisting your cat to stay healthier without eating preservatives and fillers.
So in conclusion, table scraps, bones, chocolate and dog food are not healthy cat food alternatives for your beloved feline.
Check out a quick and easy 15 minutes or less homemade cat food recipe.
Methods for alternative cat health, care and feeding can be viewed at www.allthingscat.com/homemade_cat_food.html
Monday, May 26, 2008
Ya Gotta Tell About Your Pets!
Summer vacation time is coming and a lot of pet owners will be boarding their pets. This article is a perfect reminder on how to keep you and your pet happy during this process. Sheri
by Susan Thixton
I read an article recently about a family whose dog escaped from a Dog Day Care Facility. The family was a new customer to this Day Care and when they returned to pick up their dogno dog. The article didn't share if the dog was later found, but what it did share was that after the escape, the owners told the day care the dog was a fence climber.
I used to own a boarding kennel and dog training facility. Over the Christmas holiday one year, a new family brought me their two Cocker Spaniels to board for two weeks. The wife dropped the dogs off and instructed me to clean the dog'sears daily. Knowing that not all dogs enjoy an ear cleaning and since I was not familiar with my new guests, I questioned her how well the dogs would accept the cleaning. She assured me they would be fine. On the first attempt to clean the ears I received the worst bite of my professional career. I thought the dog crushed my finger - had it notbeen so painful, it was almost comical. One of those moments where the dog had my hand locked between his jaws and I had to use the other hand to pry open his mouth! He made a very strong point that he didn't want to have his ears cleaned.
Fast forward two weeks to when the owners were to pick upthe dogs this time it was the husband who picked them up(wife dropped them off). As soon as he came in the door I informed him that the dogs never got their ears cleaned and that the male bit me badly on my first attempt. His reply"oh yeah, I'm sorry, they bite us all the time when we do that too!"
The point to my sharing these stories whenever you take your pet to a Groomer or Vet or Kennel - please tell the pet care provider things that you know about your pet's behavior and personality. If the Day Care had known the dog was a fence climber, they could have taken precautions to make sure he did not escape. If I had known the cockers were biters, I could have put a quick muzzle on them and been able to keep their ears in good health and my hand in good health. I could share a million more stories just like the two above -my only guess as to why they happen so often is that some pet owners might be a little ashamed of their pet's behaviors sometimes. My advice to you is to get over the embarrassment and tell pet care professionals what they need to know to keep your pet safe.
On the other hand - there are many pet care providers out there that just don't care enough. I've seen many of them -and I cringe when I think about the heartbreak they could cause because of their reckless or careless behavior. I wish I could tell you exactly how to avoid those type of petprofessionals - but I can't. I can however give you some suggestions from the perspective of someone who took care of pets for a living.
1. The pet business should be clean, clean, clean! To me, if a business owner doesn't care enough about the cleanliness of the facility, what else don't they care about? The kennel or grooming shop or daycare doesn't have to be 'state of the art' - but it does need to be clean.
2. Meet the staff. Not just the person at the desk - try to meet, look in the eye, and talk with as many of the employees as you can. That's a little difficult -especially from the business owners perspective - but those are the folks that will be caring for your baby, try your best.
3. Get references - and call those references. There is nothing better to calm the nerves of a nervous pet owner than to talk with other pet owners who have experienced the care provided by this pet business.
4. Depending on your state - some pet care businesses are guided by local Animal Control licensing. If that is the case in your state, call the licensing agency and ask about any reports of abuse or misconduct with this business. At the very least, check with the BBB.
Visit www.allthingscat.com for more interesting details about cats, and their alternative health care.
by Susan Thixton
I read an article recently about a family whose dog escaped from a Dog Day Care Facility. The family was a new customer to this Day Care and when they returned to pick up their dogno dog. The article didn't share if the dog was later found, but what it did share was that after the escape, the owners told the day care the dog was a fence climber.
I used to own a boarding kennel and dog training facility. Over the Christmas holiday one year, a new family brought me their two Cocker Spaniels to board for two weeks. The wife dropped the dogs off and instructed me to clean the dog'sears daily. Knowing that not all dogs enjoy an ear cleaning and since I was not familiar with my new guests, I questioned her how well the dogs would accept the cleaning. She assured me they would be fine. On the first attempt to clean the ears I received the worst bite of my professional career. I thought the dog crushed my finger - had it notbeen so painful, it was almost comical. One of those moments where the dog had my hand locked between his jaws and I had to use the other hand to pry open his mouth! He made a very strong point that he didn't want to have his ears cleaned.
Fast forward two weeks to when the owners were to pick upthe dogs this time it was the husband who picked them up(wife dropped them off). As soon as he came in the door I informed him that the dogs never got their ears cleaned and that the male bit me badly on my first attempt. His reply"oh yeah, I'm sorry, they bite us all the time when we do that too!"
The point to my sharing these stories whenever you take your pet to a Groomer or Vet or Kennel - please tell the pet care provider things that you know about your pet's behavior and personality. If the Day Care had known the dog was a fence climber, they could have taken precautions to make sure he did not escape. If I had known the cockers were biters, I could have put a quick muzzle on them and been able to keep their ears in good health and my hand in good health. I could share a million more stories just like the two above -my only guess as to why they happen so often is that some pet owners might be a little ashamed of their pet's behaviors sometimes. My advice to you is to get over the embarrassment and tell pet care professionals what they need to know to keep your pet safe.
On the other hand - there are many pet care providers out there that just don't care enough. I've seen many of them -and I cringe when I think about the heartbreak they could cause because of their reckless or careless behavior. I wish I could tell you exactly how to avoid those type of petprofessionals - but I can't. I can however give you some suggestions from the perspective of someone who took care of pets for a living.
1. The pet business should be clean, clean, clean! To me, if a business owner doesn't care enough about the cleanliness of the facility, what else don't they care about? The kennel or grooming shop or daycare doesn't have to be 'state of the art' - but it does need to be clean.
2. Meet the staff. Not just the person at the desk - try to meet, look in the eye, and talk with as many of the employees as you can. That's a little difficult -especially from the business owners perspective - but those are the folks that will be caring for your baby, try your best.
3. Get references - and call those references. There is nothing better to calm the nerves of a nervous pet owner than to talk with other pet owners who have experienced the care provided by this pet business.
4. Depending on your state - some pet care businesses are guided by local Animal Control licensing. If that is the case in your state, call the licensing agency and ask about any reports of abuse or misconduct with this business. At the very least, check with the BBB.
Visit www.allthingscat.com for more interesting details about cats, and their alternative health care.
Friday, March 14, 2008
How the Largest Beef Recall In History Effects Pet Owners
by Susan Thixton
The U.S. is experiencing the largest beef recall in history. Major television networks and social websites on the Internet have provided a hidden camera video provided by the Humane Society showing downer cattle - animals that are sick or diseased and unable to stand - being prodded with forklifts and beaten in attempts to move them to the slaughter area. If you can stomach it, the link to the video is below. The video is very difficult to view and alarming to know that any meat processor would disregard the safety of U.S. citizens and process diseased animals into human food. Pet owners should be aware that even though it is illegal toprocess downer cattle into human food, it is legal and common to process these downer animals into pet food.
The FDA and the USDA classify downer cattle as SRMs -Specified Risk Materials. Meat products known to be a specified risk of spreading mad cow disease. According to federal law, it is illegal to process SRM animals for use in human food AND to be processed into ruminant (cattle, sheep,pig) feed in order to protect U.S. citizens from mad cow disease. Unfortunately, it is legal and common practice to process SRM animals into pet food. Sick or diseased animals that are known risks to humans - are processed into pet food. Mad cow disease has already crossed species into cats in Europe and mink worldwide. Are U.S. pets next?
When the FDA was considering a change in the pet food regulations, members of the cattle industry, rendering industry, pet food industry, and various other organizations lobbied the FDA either for stricter/safer regulations to protect pets - or lobbied against it.
A letter dated August 13, 2004 from the Humane Society ofthe United States wrote in favor of a ban of all SRM material in all foods - human, ruminant, or pet foods."As the country's largest animal protection organization we are deeply concerned about the potential impact of transmissiblespongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) on animal health.The removal from animal feed of downers, dead stock (animals that have died on the farm), cattle showing signs of a CNS disorder, and cattle who appear rabies-suspect but test negative would add another important layer of protection since these animals have a greater incidence of BSE than the general population.There is strong evidence that cats are susceptible to BSE and we therefore urge the FDA to prohibit immediately the use in pet food of any SRMs, downers, deadstock, or cattle showing signs of a CNS disorder or testing negative for rabies.There have been confirmed cases of Feline Spongiform Encephalopathy in approximately 100 cats in Europe. Since the FDA is charged with ensuring the safety of the food cats consume, we feel it would be reckless not to prohibit the inclusion of the high risk materials enumerated above in pet food."
Opposing the proposed ban was Garth Merrick (Merrick PetFood). Quoting his letter to the FDA dated July 28, 2004"ANPR's proposed rule to prohibit SRM's from all animal food including pet food and prohibiting materials from non ambulatory cattle and dead stock from all animal feed creates the below listed consequences of disposal of pounds that previously could be manufactured into animal feed. SRM's in cattle under 30 months of age have been estimated to be 20 pounds per head. In Texas there are four packing houses processing approximately 100,000 head per week times 20 pounds equals 2,000,000 times 52 weeks equals 104,000,000 of product that no one has discussed what to do with. If you cannot render it for feed to be fed to chickens, swine or pet food, then you have destroyed a system that currently works. We are the original recyclers. These numbers are only for Texas; when you consider the other lower 47 states, the consequences are inconceivable as to what the health hazards could be if these products are not processed the way they are currently being done."
No decision has been made by the FDA to ban SRM materialsfrom use in pet food or pet treats.
Do you think SRM cattle - diseased or dying animals should be processed into dog food or cat food? The HumaneSociety's hidden camera video of downer cattle - available for the not so weak to view at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SWmAJlwLnQI shows the health conditions of these SRM animals.
Even if you are a non pet owner reading this article, I'm doubtful you would think sick and dying animals are safe to feed pets.Personally if a livestock animal has been declared a Specified Risk Material - I don't care who has the expense of disposing of the material - just don't usepet food as the 'disposal method'.Pet food becomes theprofitable disposal method.SRMs are sold to pet foodmanufacturers providing revenue for a product that is otherwise un-sellable.Those pet food manufacturers that purchase SRM materials obtain 'meat' at hugely discountedprices. By no means could SRMs be profitable to the pet or the pet owner.
By products, meat and bone meal, meat meal, animal digest,and animal fat are all ingredients that could be processed SRM animals.Please read your pet food and pet treat labels!
Before you put your pet at risk, learn the Truth About PetFood. Register for the Truth About Pet Food free newsletterand stay updated on the latest pet food news. (http://www.petsumerreport.com/)
The U.S. is experiencing the largest beef recall in history. Major television networks and social websites on the Internet have provided a hidden camera video provided by the Humane Society showing downer cattle - animals that are sick or diseased and unable to stand - being prodded with forklifts and beaten in attempts to move them to the slaughter area. If you can stomach it, the link to the video is below. The video is very difficult to view and alarming to know that any meat processor would disregard the safety of U.S. citizens and process diseased animals into human food. Pet owners should be aware that even though it is illegal toprocess downer cattle into human food, it is legal and common to process these downer animals into pet food.
The FDA and the USDA classify downer cattle as SRMs -Specified Risk Materials. Meat products known to be a specified risk of spreading mad cow disease. According to federal law, it is illegal to process SRM animals for use in human food AND to be processed into ruminant (cattle, sheep,pig) feed in order to protect U.S. citizens from mad cow disease. Unfortunately, it is legal and common practice to process SRM animals into pet food. Sick or diseased animals that are known risks to humans - are processed into pet food. Mad cow disease has already crossed species into cats in Europe and mink worldwide. Are U.S. pets next?
When the FDA was considering a change in the pet food regulations, members of the cattle industry, rendering industry, pet food industry, and various other organizations lobbied the FDA either for stricter/safer regulations to protect pets - or lobbied against it.
A letter dated August 13, 2004 from the Humane Society ofthe United States wrote in favor of a ban of all SRM material in all foods - human, ruminant, or pet foods."As the country's largest animal protection organization we are deeply concerned about the potential impact of transmissiblespongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) on animal health.The removal from animal feed of downers, dead stock (animals that have died on the farm), cattle showing signs of a CNS disorder, and cattle who appear rabies-suspect but test negative would add another important layer of protection since these animals have a greater incidence of BSE than the general population.There is strong evidence that cats are susceptible to BSE and we therefore urge the FDA to prohibit immediately the use in pet food of any SRMs, downers, deadstock, or cattle showing signs of a CNS disorder or testing negative for rabies.There have been confirmed cases of Feline Spongiform Encephalopathy in approximately 100 cats in Europe. Since the FDA is charged with ensuring the safety of the food cats consume, we feel it would be reckless not to prohibit the inclusion of the high risk materials enumerated above in pet food."
Opposing the proposed ban was Garth Merrick (Merrick PetFood). Quoting his letter to the FDA dated July 28, 2004"ANPR's proposed rule to prohibit SRM's from all animal food including pet food and prohibiting materials from non ambulatory cattle and dead stock from all animal feed creates the below listed consequences of disposal of pounds that previously could be manufactured into animal feed. SRM's in cattle under 30 months of age have been estimated to be 20 pounds per head. In Texas there are four packing houses processing approximately 100,000 head per week times 20 pounds equals 2,000,000 times 52 weeks equals 104,000,000 of product that no one has discussed what to do with. If you cannot render it for feed to be fed to chickens, swine or pet food, then you have destroyed a system that currently works. We are the original recyclers. These numbers are only for Texas; when you consider the other lower 47 states, the consequences are inconceivable as to what the health hazards could be if these products are not processed the way they are currently being done."
No decision has been made by the FDA to ban SRM materialsfrom use in pet food or pet treats.
Do you think SRM cattle - diseased or dying animals should be processed into dog food or cat food? The HumaneSociety's hidden camera video of downer cattle - available for the not so weak to view at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SWmAJlwLnQI shows the health conditions of these SRM animals.
Even if you are a non pet owner reading this article, I'm doubtful you would think sick and dying animals are safe to feed pets.Personally if a livestock animal has been declared a Specified Risk Material - I don't care who has the expense of disposing of the material - just don't usepet food as the 'disposal method'.Pet food becomes theprofitable disposal method.SRMs are sold to pet foodmanufacturers providing revenue for a product that is otherwise un-sellable.Those pet food manufacturers that purchase SRM materials obtain 'meat' at hugely discountedprices. By no means could SRMs be profitable to the pet or the pet owner.
By products, meat and bone meal, meat meal, animal digest,and animal fat are all ingredients that could be processed SRM animals.Please read your pet food and pet treat labels!
Before you put your pet at risk, learn the Truth About PetFood. Register for the Truth About Pet Food free newsletterand stay updated on the latest pet food news. (http://www.petsumerreport.com/)
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Second Hand Smoke Is A Health Threat to Pets
ScienceDaily (Sep. 3, 2007) — It has been in the news for years about how secondhand smoke is a health threat to nonsmokers. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that secondhand smoke is attributed with killing thousands of adult nonsmokers annually.
If smoking is that harmful to human beings, it would make sense that secondhand smoke would have an adverse effect on pets that live in the homes of smokers, said Dr. Carolynn MacAllister, Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension Service veterinarian.
“There have been a number of scientific papers recently that have reported the significant health threat secondhand smoke poses to pets,” MacAllister said. “Secondhand smoke has been associated with oral cancer and lymphoma in cats, lung and nasal cancer in dogs, as well as lung cancer in birds.”
She said a study conducted recently at Tuft College of Veterinary Medicine found a strong correlation between secondhand smoke and certain forms of cancer in cats. The number of cats with mouth cancer, also known as squamous cell carcinoma, was higher for those animals living in smoking environments versus those felines living in a smoke-free home. In addition, cats that lived with smokers for five or more years had an even higher incidence of this type of oral cancer.
“One reason cats are so susceptible to secondhand smoke is because of their grooming habits. Cats constantly lick themselves while grooming, therefore they lick up the cancer-causing carcinogens that accumulate on their fur,” MacAllister said. “This grooming behavior exposes the mucous membrane of their mouth to the cancer-causing carcinogens.”
Malignant lymphoma is another type of cancer that cats that live with smokers have a higher risk of getting. This cancer occurs in the lymph nodes and cats are twice as likely to have this type of cancer compared to cats living in a non-smoking home. This form of cancer is fatal to three out of four cats within 12 months of developing the cancer.
MacAllister also pointed out that secondhand smoke is greatly associated with the increased occurrence of cancer in the nose and sinus area among dogs. Research also indicates a slight association with lung cancer.
“A recent study conducted at Colorado State University shows that there is a higher incidence of nasal tumors in dogs living in a home with secondhand smoke compared to dogs living in a smoke free environment,” she said. “The increased incidence was specifically found among the long nosed breed of dogs. Shorter or medium nosed dogs showed higher rates for lung cancer.”
MacAllister said the longer nosed breeds of dogs have a great surface area in their noses that is exposed to the carcinogens. This also provides more area in which the carcinogens can accumulate. The carcinogens tend to build up on the mucous membranes of long nosed dogs so not as much reaches the lungs.
Unfortunately, dogs affected with nasal cancer normally do not survive more than one year.
“The reason short and medium nose dogs have a higher occurrence of lung cancer is because their shorter nasal passages aren’t as effective at accumulating the inhaled secondhand smoke carcinogens,” she said. “This results in more carcinogens reaching the lungs.”
Pet birds also are victims of secondhand smoke. A bird’s respiratory system is hypersensitive to any type of pollutant in the air.
MacAllister said the most serious consequences of secondhand smoke exposure in birds are pneumonia or lung cancer. Other health risks include eye, skin, heart and fertility problems.
Secondhand smoke is not the only danger faced by pets that live in smoke filled environments. Poisoning is another risk they face.
“Curious pets can eat cigarettes and other tobacco products if the products aren’t stored properly,” MacAllister said. “When ingested, this can cause nicotine poisoning, which can be fatal.”
It is important, both for the health of pets and others living in the household, that the smoker has a designated area in which to smoke that is physically separated from the home. In addition, always keep cigarettes, cigarette butts and other tobacco products put away.
“A better choice that could enhance your chances of enjoying a healthier lifestyle with your family and pets would be to stop smoking altogether,” MacAllister said.
Adapted from materials provided by Oklahoma State University.
If smoking is that harmful to human beings, it would make sense that secondhand smoke would have an adverse effect on pets that live in the homes of smokers, said Dr. Carolynn MacAllister, Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension Service veterinarian.
“There have been a number of scientific papers recently that have reported the significant health threat secondhand smoke poses to pets,” MacAllister said. “Secondhand smoke has been associated with oral cancer and lymphoma in cats, lung and nasal cancer in dogs, as well as lung cancer in birds.”
She said a study conducted recently at Tuft College of Veterinary Medicine found a strong correlation between secondhand smoke and certain forms of cancer in cats. The number of cats with mouth cancer, also known as squamous cell carcinoma, was higher for those animals living in smoking environments versus those felines living in a smoke-free home. In addition, cats that lived with smokers for five or more years had an even higher incidence of this type of oral cancer.
“One reason cats are so susceptible to secondhand smoke is because of their grooming habits. Cats constantly lick themselves while grooming, therefore they lick up the cancer-causing carcinogens that accumulate on their fur,” MacAllister said. “This grooming behavior exposes the mucous membrane of their mouth to the cancer-causing carcinogens.”
Malignant lymphoma is another type of cancer that cats that live with smokers have a higher risk of getting. This cancer occurs in the lymph nodes and cats are twice as likely to have this type of cancer compared to cats living in a non-smoking home. This form of cancer is fatal to three out of four cats within 12 months of developing the cancer.
MacAllister also pointed out that secondhand smoke is greatly associated with the increased occurrence of cancer in the nose and sinus area among dogs. Research also indicates a slight association with lung cancer.
“A recent study conducted at Colorado State University shows that there is a higher incidence of nasal tumors in dogs living in a home with secondhand smoke compared to dogs living in a smoke free environment,” she said. “The increased incidence was specifically found among the long nosed breed of dogs. Shorter or medium nosed dogs showed higher rates for lung cancer.”
MacAllister said the longer nosed breeds of dogs have a great surface area in their noses that is exposed to the carcinogens. This also provides more area in which the carcinogens can accumulate. The carcinogens tend to build up on the mucous membranes of long nosed dogs so not as much reaches the lungs.
Unfortunately, dogs affected with nasal cancer normally do not survive more than one year.
“The reason short and medium nose dogs have a higher occurrence of lung cancer is because their shorter nasal passages aren’t as effective at accumulating the inhaled secondhand smoke carcinogens,” she said. “This results in more carcinogens reaching the lungs.”
Pet birds also are victims of secondhand smoke. A bird’s respiratory system is hypersensitive to any type of pollutant in the air.
MacAllister said the most serious consequences of secondhand smoke exposure in birds are pneumonia or lung cancer. Other health risks include eye, skin, heart and fertility problems.
Secondhand smoke is not the only danger faced by pets that live in smoke filled environments. Poisoning is another risk they face.
“Curious pets can eat cigarettes and other tobacco products if the products aren’t stored properly,” MacAllister said. “When ingested, this can cause nicotine poisoning, which can be fatal.”
It is important, both for the health of pets and others living in the household, that the smoker has a designated area in which to smoke that is physically separated from the home. In addition, always keep cigarettes, cigarette butts and other tobacco products put away.
“A better choice that could enhance your chances of enjoying a healthier lifestyle with your family and pets would be to stop smoking altogether,” MacAllister said.
Adapted from materials provided by Oklahoma State University.
Friday, December 7, 2007
Stumped for a Cat Lover Gift?
With the holidays right around the corner, you may be wondering what to get for the cat lover in your life. Whether they are a good friend, a co-worker, or your significant other, you can never go wrong by getting a feline fancier something that reminds them of their favorite animal! Here are some terrific ideas of cat themed gifts to assist you in selecting the best present for a cat-loving, loved one.
Practical gifts
Some terrific cat themed gifts will actually be for the cat, rather than for your friend, but depending on the gift, your friend will probably love it! Scratching posts, small cat toys and pretty little collars are wonderful ways to let your friend know that you understand the importance of the cat in their life.Scratching posts have come a long way. They come in are many sizes, designs and colors. The recipient of this gift will probably thank you for saving the ”life” of their sofa, couches and or chairs. More cat themed, cat lover gift ideas are books, videos, dvds, mailboxes, chimes, door knockers, handmade cat pillows, just to name a few. Practical gifts like these are perfect for a wide variety of different occasions.
The Cultural Cat
Felines have held honored places in many different cultures all around the world. There's a good chance that you'll be able to find cat themed gifts for the most discerning art collector by looking in this category. If your friend enjoys Asian art, what about a scroll decorated with Japanese brushwork kittens on it? If your friend favors a bolder look, take a look at the jaguars and ocelots that are so prevalent in Mayan and Aztec art and sculpture. Of course, when discussing cat themed gifts with relation to culture,give thought to what cats meant to the Egyptians. You'll find plenty of reproduction earrings and necklaces featuring the cat-headed goddess Bast and many many statues of cats in all sorts of shapes and poses.
Soft and Cuddly
For the cat lover who might be living in an apartment or with an allergic roommate, a cat themed gift can definitely serve a dual purpose. Select a lovely stuffed cat from the wide selection. Having something soft and cuddly, can be a great help, especially if there was a recent move from a home that had a cat(s). Look online to find stuffed toy cats of every color and breed and make sure that your cat loving friend will have something to hold dear.
Bathroom cats
Additional cat lover gifts are cat printed towels, soap dishes and shaped soaps that are available to brighten up any bath area. Also consider cat themed wall hangings in the form of three dimensional wall art, prints or photos. It can be nice to be greeted in the morning with a sweet cat shaped toothbrush holder, so take a look around for some lovely cat-inspired housewares!
When you are shopping for a special cat fan in your life, there are plenty of options. Just remember to keep that someone's personality, and preferences in mind to ensure the selection of the purrfect gift.
Want to see a wide variety of creative and unique cat lover gifts? http://www.allthingscat.com/cat_themed_gifts.html
Practical gifts
Some terrific cat themed gifts will actually be for the cat, rather than for your friend, but depending on the gift, your friend will probably love it! Scratching posts, small cat toys and pretty little collars are wonderful ways to let your friend know that you understand the importance of the cat in their life.Scratching posts have come a long way. They come in are many sizes, designs and colors. The recipient of this gift will probably thank you for saving the ”life” of their sofa, couches and or chairs. More cat themed, cat lover gift ideas are books, videos, dvds, mailboxes, chimes, door knockers, handmade cat pillows, just to name a few. Practical gifts like these are perfect for a wide variety of different occasions.
The Cultural Cat
Felines have held honored places in many different cultures all around the world. There's a good chance that you'll be able to find cat themed gifts for the most discerning art collector by looking in this category. If your friend enjoys Asian art, what about a scroll decorated with Japanese brushwork kittens on it? If your friend favors a bolder look, take a look at the jaguars and ocelots that are so prevalent in Mayan and Aztec art and sculpture. Of course, when discussing cat themed gifts with relation to culture,give thought to what cats meant to the Egyptians. You'll find plenty of reproduction earrings and necklaces featuring the cat-headed goddess Bast and many many statues of cats in all sorts of shapes and poses.
Soft and Cuddly
For the cat lover who might be living in an apartment or with an allergic roommate, a cat themed gift can definitely serve a dual purpose. Select a lovely stuffed cat from the wide selection. Having something soft and cuddly, can be a great help, especially if there was a recent move from a home that had a cat(s). Look online to find stuffed toy cats of every color and breed and make sure that your cat loving friend will have something to hold dear.
Bathroom cats
Additional cat lover gifts are cat printed towels, soap dishes and shaped soaps that are available to brighten up any bath area. Also consider cat themed wall hangings in the form of three dimensional wall art, prints or photos. It can be nice to be greeted in the morning with a sweet cat shaped toothbrush holder, so take a look around for some lovely cat-inspired housewares!
When you are shopping for a special cat fan in your life, there are plenty of options. Just remember to keep that someone's personality, and preferences in mind to ensure the selection of the purrfect gift.
Want to see a wide variety of creative and unique cat lover gifts? http://www.allthingscat.com/cat_themed_gifts.html
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Are you Sick & Tired of the Unhealthy Mess, Embarrassing Odor caused by your Cat Litter Box?
Cat Urinating, Over, Around Litter Box? Cat Litter Box Problem?
I’ve tried all kinds of litter boxes, the corner litter box, the top opening litter box, giant litter box, covered, hooded…none of them worked.
I've spent a small fortune on litter boxes attempting to solve the problem.
Dealing with litter box odor can be a problem.Covered litter boxes are supposed to filter and reduce odor, but they tend to hold more odor. Most cats also find the odor unappealing and will not enter the box, they are also repelled by the perfumes and deodorizing pellets found in some litters. Additionally, if you use a bleach, strong disinfectant or ammonia the lasting odor could also deter your cat from using the box, hence going outside, around the litter box, or on the carpet.
Dirty litter boxes may be the cause of many litter box behavior problems. Adding baking soda to the litter may cause health issues for some cats because of its high sodium content, and when cats cover up by scratching they have a tendency to breathe the baking soda which is not healthy, so be aware.
Keep litter boxes away from air ducts, furnaces and noisy appliances may that start automatically while your cat is using it, which may cause the cat to be startled enough to make it go elsewhere.
Most litter boxes are designed for our convenience and not the cats. They are too small, shallow and narrow. An ideal box should be deep, tall and large enough for the cat to circle around within, with ease.
Cleaning your litter box should be a relatively easy job. Use a mild cleaning solution like ivory soap or liquid castile soap, never cleaners like Lysol, bleach, ammonia and really rinse it well!!! Remember cats have a keen sense of smelland if they smell a lingering perfume odor, they won’t use the box.
Ideally, you should keep an eye on your litter box to determine when it is necessary to clean. For some cats, once a week is fine. For others it may betoo long. Try and remove any waste on a daily basis, surely every 2 days.This will ensure that there will be no problems with your cat going elsewherein the home, and avoiding the cause of odor.
Check out how I used a simple everyday item to STOP the Odor, Mess and Health Risks that can be caused by any cat’s litter box. Visit www.allthingscat.com/cat_litter_box_problem.html
I’ve tried all kinds of litter boxes, the corner litter box, the top opening litter box, giant litter box, covered, hooded…none of them worked.
I've spent a small fortune on litter boxes attempting to solve the problem.
Dealing with litter box odor can be a problem.Covered litter boxes are supposed to filter and reduce odor, but they tend to hold more odor. Most cats also find the odor unappealing and will not enter the box, they are also repelled by the perfumes and deodorizing pellets found in some litters. Additionally, if you use a bleach, strong disinfectant or ammonia the lasting odor could also deter your cat from using the box, hence going outside, around the litter box, or on the carpet.
Dirty litter boxes may be the cause of many litter box behavior problems. Adding baking soda to the litter may cause health issues for some cats because of its high sodium content, and when cats cover up by scratching they have a tendency to breathe the baking soda which is not healthy, so be aware.
Keep litter boxes away from air ducts, furnaces and noisy appliances may that start automatically while your cat is using it, which may cause the cat to be startled enough to make it go elsewhere.
Most litter boxes are designed for our convenience and not the cats. They are too small, shallow and narrow. An ideal box should be deep, tall and large enough for the cat to circle around within, with ease.
Cleaning your litter box should be a relatively easy job. Use a mild cleaning solution like ivory soap or liquid castile soap, never cleaners like Lysol, bleach, ammonia and really rinse it well!!! Remember cats have a keen sense of smelland if they smell a lingering perfume odor, they won’t use the box.
Ideally, you should keep an eye on your litter box to determine when it is necessary to clean. For some cats, once a week is fine. For others it may betoo long. Try and remove any waste on a daily basis, surely every 2 days.This will ensure that there will be no problems with your cat going elsewherein the home, and avoiding the cause of odor.
Check out how I used a simple everyday item to STOP the Odor, Mess and Health Risks that can be caused by any cat’s litter box. Visit www.allthingscat.com/cat_litter_box_problem.html
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