Does Your Cat Have a Favorite Toy?

By Jackie Rosetti

Have you ever noticed your cat playing with a toy and suddenly the toy is missing and you're getting "the look"? While playing with the toy, it somehow ended up under the stove or refrigerator and while kitty tried his or her best they just can't seem to get it. They have stretched their body and scrunched themselves up trying to slither under the appliance but just can't quite reach that toy.

Cats have preferences on food, beds, scratching surfaces, cat litter and even toys. If you observe your cat when selecting a cat toy from their toy box, he or she will move the toys around until they find a certain toy. Follow this toy selection enough times and you're going to notice that your kitty does have a favorite toy and will attempt to take that favorite cat toy out of the toy box first to play with. Only when that favorite item becomes misplaced or lost will he or she select a different toy.

To say that cats are finicky is an understatement. We've talked with many folks about their felines' preferences, especially as it relates to toys. Most all of them will state that their cat has a favorite toy and will not play with anything else. We strongly advise pet parents to stock up on those favorite items. For unknown reasons, well known pet toy manufacturers can decide to discontinue a toy at any time. Sometimes discontinued items are best sellers and there's bitter disappointment with being unable to find availability, it is not uncommon for pet parents to look high and low for their cats' favorite toy. There is nothing worse than being unable to fulfill your kitty's want for their preferred play thing.

Folks often tell us they have tried numerous other toys and their cat simply refuses to play with anything aside from their favorite toy. Again, we would strongly urge pet parents with pets (cats and dogs) to stock up on those favorite toys. Sure, nothing lasts forever but having a good supply will keep your pet happy for a long time. Consider keeping a six month supply on hand and every time you take a toy out of your stock, replace it with two to be assured that your fur baby will be happy for several months before you have to tell him or her that their special toy is no more! Each time you replenish your stock, ask your supplier about their current inventory and future availability of the item. Should the dreadful words of 'discontinued item' be uttered, your last chance of securing the "favorite" for your feline friend is upon you. Your final chance to put away these cat toys is at that moment, don't hesitate, it's now or never... and you'll be glad you did.

Cat Toys For Less offers you an ever-growing selection of fun cat toys that will keep your special friend busy (and active) for hours. Keeping your indoor cat active helps prevent health risks such as obesity.
http://www.cattoysforless.com

Why Buy Cat Furniture From An Online Specialty Store Verses The Big Box Stores?

By Jackie Rosetti

Why should you buy a cat tree from an online specialty store, when you could get a similar model from your local department store and save a few dollars? That is a great question. Let's see if we can figure out why there's a difference in price.

Specialty indicates that there is excess knowledge about the product, and this holds true for the online specialty stores that carry cat furniture. Cat trees and condos come in many shapes, colors, sizes and brands. Some are custom made to your specification. The majority of custom cat furniture is made in the USA and made to order. They are not sitting in a warehouse by the hundreds waiting to be purchased, they are built as they are ordered. The cat trees found in department stores are pre-made and most have traveled across the ocean in a container ship. It is not uncommon for a ship to take a month or more to complete the journey from the port of shipment to the port of destination. With that being said, there is a good chance that the cat trees have been exposed to moisture during their journey. Since most are unassembled and merely boxed, some parts can be affected by moisture. The base being the most important part of any piece of cat furniture must be perfectly flat to prevent a rocking sensation when your cat runs or jumps on the tree. The cat trees and condos that you find in department stores are more often than not imported items.

Cat furniture, trees and condos purchased online could possibly be imported as well. How can you tell? Simple, call the online store and ask. While you're speaking with the online store ask specifics about the item. Online stores have extensive knowledge regarding the product they sell. Ask specific questions in your local big box store about the item and you'll get a blank stare. Ask the online store about their policy on receiving a defective item and most all of them will stand behind their product. The specialty stores have manufacturing knowledge about the different brands that they carry, what materials are used to build the item, how long can you expect it to last and will it stand up to multiple cats. If you order today when can you expect to receive it? How will it be delivered? Do you have to be home for delivery? Are any toxic materials used in the manufacturing process? Can you return it if your cat doesn't like it? These are all important questions which any competent online specialty store should be able to answer.

Ordering online saves you from driving to one or more department stores, battling traffic, driving around looking for a parking place, as well as the cost of gasoline to make the purchase. When purchasing cat furniture online, you'll also avoid encountering busy clerks that give you 'the look' when you start asking questions.

While even the online stores have business hours where you can reach someone on the phone, most have toll free phone numbers and all have a form of email contact.

Sit in the comfort of your home (in your jammies if you want to), call the toll free number and ask everything you ever wanted to know about cat furniture but were afraid to ask. If you can't get to the phone to call during their business hours, use their 'contact us' email to ask your questions. Take the hustle and bustle out of shopping and shop right in the comfort of your own home, shop with confidence online by watching for secure websites that don't compromise you're personal and credit card information.

The Holiday season is a pretty busy time for department stores as well as online specialty stores, if your call goes into a message center, leave your name and phone number along with a brief description of the reason for the call and I promise that your call will be returned. The online stores appreciate your business and will provide you with a wealth of information, outstanding service and best of all, the guidance to help you decide which cat tree will work best for your kitty(s). Their knowledge about their products is why they are considered a specialty store. Their service is unbeatable.

Save yourself the gas, driving aggravation, and the hassle of department store shopping. Have a look at the online cat furniture stores at your convenience and then decide if the few dollars difference isn't worth every cent.

Living with cats for many years has taught me a great deal about the needs that kitties have. I enjoy talking with people about their cats and sharing what I have learned about cat furniture and how it benefits our feline friends. Since starting our web store http://www.FancyFelinesCleverCanines.com, I've had the opportunity to visit with many cat furniture manufacturers to understand more about the materials used and the construction process. Sharing this information with folks will ultimately help their kitties and pet parents alike.

High Fiber Cat Food

By Jamie Black

There is a bit of a controversy regarding high fiber cat food. Many believe a high fiber diet is not good for your cat. Many believe it is. The truth is both arguments are correct. A high fiber diet that is full of bad fiber sources can be more harmful than good. Bad fiber is fiber that cannot be fermented by a cat. Bad fiber sources include corn and wheat. In contrast, a high fiber diet full of the good fiber sources can be very beneficial. This fiber is fermentable and can come from oats and rye.

It is important to know that a diet marked as high-fiber can be misleading. Most would assume that it means it is healthy and is promoting well-being. This may not be the case. As mentioned above, a high-fiber diet can be loaded with corn gluten meal and wheat sources. This is especially true for dry food. Does it mean it is healthy for the cat? Absolutely not. The ideal fiber percentage is at around 3%. If you come across food that has a high percentage, looking at the ingredients is a must.

What are the benefits of fiber?

Fiber is widely associated with weight loss diets. This is because the fermentable fiber remains in the stomach and intestines for quite a while. This gives the cat a full feeling for a longer period of time, thus reducing the amount of carbohydrates the cat is eating.

Another important aspect fiber can help out with is ensuring a healthy digestive tract. Good fiber actually lubricates the digestive tract. When cats lick their hair, it's natural that they ingest some of it. This lubricating action ensures that the hair moves swiftly through the digestive tract. This reduces the amount of hair balls a cat may have. It also reduces constipation because cat hair sitting in the digestive tract is known to cause constipation.

So what does bad fiber do for a cat?

Bad fiber can do a lot of damage. First and foremost, when bad fiber is ingested, it basically just sits there. It doesn't become fermented like good fiber. This can prevent the cat from absorbing important proteins, vitamins, and minerals from food. Fiber is known to prevent the body from absorbing these elements. On the same note, fiber built up in the digestive tract will cause bloating and flatulence.

This type of fiber can aid in constipation. Because this fiber is not fermentable, it is more bulky. This actually makes stool dry and harder for a cat to pass. This can lead to constipation. Take the fact that it is not a lubricating agent into consideration, there is more cat fur sitting in the digestive tract. This also can lead to constipation.

When switching to a high fiber cat food, it is important to know what brands are the good ones and which ones are not so good. The high-fiber label can be misleading at times so it is important to do some research before you commit to a particular brand. It is also important to note that you should seek assistance from a vet to ensure that your cat switches over without any complications.

Cat Treats

By Alex Kelly

If you own a cat or any pet for that matter, you will already be on the receiving end of lots of love and affection. So why not nourish them with the best available cat treats food and toys. In fact, this should be one of your top-most priorities to provide your cat with the highest quality cat treats so that she can grow up in the healthiest way possible. It's a fact that cats are quite sensitive and emotional creatures that require the utmost care and proper nurturing.

Though many cat owners spend a fortune on grooming needs for their cats, when it comes to cat treats and supplies, they often forget to include these things in their cat's daily routine. They should remember that the internal health of their cats is just as important if they want their cats to remain playful, active and behave well. Let's have a look at some of the best cat treats and supplies that you can use to treat your cat.

Kitty treats: Outside of giving your cat the best food possible, it's OK to provide her with healthy and delicious kitty treats. However, just as we as humans have to watch our food intake, so we must do the same for our pets. Obesity in animals is a big problem with owners over doing it and spoiling their pets. Just use a bit of common sense. You can buy love - without nasty derivatives, chemicals and other mystery ingredients.

It is very easy to get healthy cat treats that come in a variety of flavours and are enriched with a range of enzymes, which can effectively prevent any plaque formation. These healthier treats can be found in flavours such as poultry or fish so that your feline friend surely loves her treat.

Scratching post: When you keep your cat in your homely atmosphere, there are certain things that cats usually miss, but which are extremely essential for their natural grooming and growth. Scratching is second nature to cats and normally, in the outside environment, cats use some sort of scratching surface to sharpen their claws and remove dead cells. This then exposes their new claws. Don't tell them off, get them the best scratching post you can afford and encourage them to use and play on and around their post with soft cat toys. Let them know this is their stand and a place where they can scratch away to their hearts content!

Cat drinking fountain: Like us all, cats need water throughout the day so that all their bodily functions work perfectly and good health is maintained. Cats who are on dry food don't get as much water from their food as those who eat tinned food, and should always have easy access to clean, drinking water to supplement their intake. Rather than just a normal drinking bowl which can get stale and become low in volume, why not get a drinking fountain in your home. This ensures that your pet can freely access water any time she wants.

Litter box: Being smart creatures, cats usually don't need much litter box training, just a little encouragement to begin with. To train your cat, start with a small, uncovered box in a quiet place near to where his bed is. I prefer to use the unscented kind of litter, but I'm sure in the end it will be more of your cat's choice than yours.

Cat litter works by absorbing cat's urine and covering faeces to reduce the growth of odour-causing bacteria. The litter layer should be at least two inches deep in the box. This makes it easier to clean up and gives the cat enough litter to scratch in and bury waste. Plastic litter box liners make the removal easier as well, and can be used with any type of litter. When your cat sniffs at the box, pick him up and put him inside, praising and petting him. When he uses the box, give him a small treat. Keep the box clean and avoid any negative associations with it. For example, don't give kitty medicine or scold him when he's near the box.

Getting the right cat supplies and cat treats for your feline friend is a perfect way to make your cat feel wanted and loved, just as all animals should be.

I try to base my articles on issues I feel are important for fellow animal lovers. Pet Promenade has all you and your furry member of the family will need. Whatever shape, size or breed we have everything in our pet store to satisfy even the most demanding, four legged diva in your household. We understand how important it is to not only have the latest cat toy, or the trendiest dog collar, but also to make sure the boring bits are covered. That's why we have a variety of flea, worming and fur treatments. http://www.petpromenade.co.uk/

Giving Back To Our Pets

By Tyler Feneck

In May of 2009, my 14-year-old cat, Erica, started acting strange, and meowing very loud. She demanded to drink water from the faucet, and her thirst appeared unquenchable. I took her to the vet and she was diagnosed with chronic renal failure, or "CRF." It's common among older cats, but virtually undetectable until a major percentage of the kidneys have already failed. They put her on antibiotics, but said her condition was so severe, she would need daily injections of subcutaneous fluids, have to go on a low protein diet, and special medications.

While CRF is terminal, my vet said she could live weeks, months, or even years depending on the response to treatment. I was also given the option of euthanasia, but Erica and I had been through too much together to give up on her, so I decided to do whatever it took to nurse her back to health.

I scoured the Internet and educated myself extensively about her condition. Other than occasional nausea, there's no pain associated with CRF, except in the final stages. Lack of appetite was a potential problem, but she showed no signs of that, and enjoyed the KD diet very much.

The injections were a bit of a challenge at first, especially with Erica's "hiss-tory." But she seemed to know instinctively that I was saving her, so she was a lot more agreeable than I thought she'd be. The vet charged $25 for one bag, or ten-day supply of sub-q fluids, but thank God for Costco, where I discovered you can get a box of 20 for the same price! Little by little, I became very efficient at giving Erica the injections without causing any discomfort. She actually looked forward to them and felt much better after receiving them.

For several months, everything was cool. However, on Dec. 27th, 2010, Erica woke up and couldn't see a thing. I knew blindness was a potential side effect of CRF, but remembered reading there was a fifty percent chance the vision could return if the cat was put on blood pressure medicine within 24 hours of the onset. My vet prescribed the medicine over the phone, and I picked it up right away.

Three weeks later, Erica's vision miraculously returned, and if you think I'm grateful and appreciative, imagine how Erica felt! A once hissing, growling, raging bull of a cat was now an appreciative, purring, picture of peace, and she remained that way for the duration of her life, which came to an end on April 21st, 2011. It was also my 38th birthday, so it was taken as a sign not to grieve, but to celebrate the 16 years life and love we shared.

In the end, I was blessed with almost two years of extra Erica because of the choices I made, and she even inspired me to write a book! Though her story will now live on forever, the real point of this article is inspire others to do the same for their pets, should they ever find themselves in a similar situation. Yes, it takes getting out of your comfort zone, costs, money, and is not always convenient. But in my opinion, our pets do so much for us, it's the least we can do in return!

Tyler Feneck is a comedian, author, filmmaker, and spiritual entertainer. His memoir, "The Cat & The Comedian," is now available on Amazon. He is currently writing his second book, "Comosophy," a comedic approach to spiritual growth. 

How to Keep Your Indoor Cat Happy

By Hindy Pearson

Cats that spend time outside get to chase birds, watch bugs and explore. They can always find ways to amuse themselves, or just hang out when they want a break.

The life of an indoor cat is certainly different! For those who prefer to keep their cats tucked safely inside, it is important to find ways to help them stave off frustration and boredom, by keeping them stimulated both mentally and physically.

If your cat is being destructive, and you know there are no health issues, it's a safe bet he's bored. It is most definitely not a sign, or excuse, to get rid of him. It is, however, a sign that it's time for you to evaluate your cat's environment, and make it fun, and interesting.

Here are some tips on how to do just that!

Offer your cat variety by providing lots of different toys, but not at the same time. Rotate them to keep it interesting.

You don't have to spend lots of money buying toys. Look around the house for inspiration.

Crumple up a piece of paper, and let them play hockey.

Buy one of those inexpensive fishing rods, with a toy at the end of a string. Cats love trying to catch it, and it gets them moving, and jumping. You can find them wherever pet supplies are sold.

An empty cardboard box can provide lots of entertainment, not to mention that all important place to hide.

Pull a string across the floor, and watch them pounce.

A laser pointer will have them attacking the walls, and sliding across the floor. They love it!!

Paper bags, baskets, boxes, and even milk jugs, can keep them amused without costing you a penny.

Inexpensive cat tunnels are another source of amusement for them, and you! If you have more than one cat, it's even more hilarious than watching a comedy show on television.

If you have a balcony, why not enclose it? You can buy outdoor cat enclosures, but they can be quite costly. A few pieces of wood and some sturdy mesh should do the trick. Cats can slip through very tiny spaces, so make sure it is 100% escape proof.

Adopt a cat friend for them, but only if you think it will make them happier. Some cats just prefer to live alone, and do not take kindly to intruders.

Even the smallest apartment can offer climbing opportunities. Bookshelves can be steps, or buy a readymade cat tree, available in many styles and configurations.

Buy, or grow your own, cat plant for them to nibble.

Hang a bird feeder outside your cat's favourite window. I hate to state the obvious but... if your cat starts banging into the window, frantic to get at the birds, take the feeder down.

If you don't have a lot of floor space, think "up." - platforms near the ceiling make an elevated cat highway.

If your windows have secure screening, crack them open for fresh air.

The litter box should be in a quiet part of the house, since cats want privacy in the bathroom. Scoop it out daily, or they'll find another spot.

Put your cat in a harness, and take him outside. Even if he doesn't get the hang of walking on a leash, he might enjoy exploring the garden. Try it out in the house first - it's safer.

Don't limit your cat's access to just a couple of rooms. He needs space to roam, run and explore.

A blanket with a slit for catnip, will definitely show him a good time.

Cats love to look out the window, so create a lookout.

Sprinkling some catnip on your cats' toys, may make them more appealing. Even sprinkling some on the floor, can be fun for them to roll around in.

Scratching is a natural behaviour, so give them things to scratch on. If you don't, they'll be clawing their way through your carpets and furniture.

Some cats enjoy watching TV - cat specific DVDs are available.

These are just some ideas to get you thinking. Use your own creativity, to come up with fun ways to entertain your cat.

Getting a Hearing Test for Your Cat - What You Need to Know

By A Aaronson

Cats are an important part of the homes of many families. A good owner treats their cat with the upmost respect and always makes sure that their pet is healthy and safe. You should regularly perform inspections and tests on your own, as well as visiting the veterinarian on a regular basis. A good example of a worthwhile inspection is performing a hearing test, to ensure that your cat's auditory abilities are still up to a healthy standard.

If your cat is advancing in age, you may want to take a look at their behavior and see if your cat's hearing is regressing. Is your cat still showing the proper response to loud noises? Does it often look disoriented? Do you have to physically touch your cat for it to be aware that you've entered the room? Does he or she wake up on their own if you make noise in a room while they're sleeping, or does it seem like your cat is hard to wake up? If you're answering yes to any of these questions, there's no doubt you'll want to take a look at your cat's ears.

This kind of loss is common in cats, especially those that are older. There are many different reasons a cat could be losing their ability to perceive sound, such as mild infections, side effects from certain drugs, ear mites, or tumors in the ear. The loss of sound perception can also be permanent in cats that are simply struck by old age, or those who have been exposed to loud noises continuously.

If you think you need to perform a simple hearing test, there are some easy techniques to see if your cat is having a problem. First, check the ear canal. If you see that it is reddened or there is black discharge, there's a good indication that your cat is having an auditory problem. You can also test your pet's ability to perceive sound by quietly stepping behind them and clapping to check the response. If the animal continues to fail to respond to your clapping, there's a good chance they need a visit to the local veterinarian. The good news about a visit to the veterinarian is that they can perform a professional hearing test on your pet to give you a diagnosis of your cat's auditory difficulties. These tests usually take a short period of time and do not hurt your pet.

If the hearing test reveals that your pet is indeed suffering from loss, there are steps you can take to make their life easier. Make sure your cat is not let outside, as they will not possess the necessary reaction time to protect themselves from potential danger. Attach a bell to the cat so you're aware if they escape the house. Try your best not to startle the cat when walking into the room. By gaining a better understanding of your pet's limitations, you will find your bond strengthened with your cat and you'll sleep easier knowing you're doing the best for their health.

Don't forget to take care of your own auditory health, and visit a Wichita KS hearing test center if you suspect that you have problems with sound perception. Visit the following to learn more about the possible solutions: http://www.miracle-ear-wichita.com.