Don’t Forget To Make Sure Your Shot Records Are Current If Your Cat Will Be Boarded is a post from: Happy Cat Blog

photo credit: Naoto Takai

Best Gifts for Cats — the Easy Way to Pick Them

Author: Ron King

Do you have a gift list that includes a true cat lover? If so, you’re in luck! Buying for a cat owner is more simple than ever, especially with the selection and specialty items available on the web. Before you purchase the first kitty-themed item, stop to consider the following idea. The best gifts for cat lovers are unique and specific to their cat.

Before you buy a present for the cat lover on your list, think about the following:

What type of cat breed does the prospective recipient like or own? Many potential offerings given to cat lovers are also breed specific. If possible, purchase a gift that reminds the recipient of their favorite pussy cat.

If you are buying a gift for someone who currently owns a cat, find out the sex of the cat. Many cat-themed gifts are gender-specific, so you should know what sex your recipient’s cat is.

Does your recipient like to dress up your cat? If you are buying a gift for someone who likes to dress their cats in sweaters or other types of apparel, your search for an appropriate gift will be much easier. Don’t assume that the receiver dresses their cat, however.

Now that you’ve taken a few moments to ponder on your recipient’s cat, here are the top 6 gifts that any cat lover would be happy to get.

1. A cat-themed picture frame. What better way to show your love for your animal than putting the feline’s picture on display? Anyone looking for gifts for cat lovers would be pleased to receive a lovely picture frame to show their pride and joy. You may desire to ensure your intended recipient doesn’t already own a lot of cat picture frames. This is a popular gift to give and to receive, so it is not uncommon for avid cat lovers to have more than one cat picture frame.

2. Cat-themed jewelry. It may be common to run across a lovely cat broach, pin, charm bracelet, necklace, or other piece of jewelry. Nothing could be more personal or intimate than a lovely piece of jewelry. If you have a close friend who you think would enjoy this type of present, you will find many online retail websites dedicated to offerings for cat lovers that carry a great selection of cat-related jewelry. For an even more personal touch, you can additionally have these type of gifts inscribed with a message as well.

3. Cat-related stationary, desk calendar, engagement calendar, diary, or books. Every New Year, hundreds of beautifully-designed calendars are put on the market for purchase. The selection can be astounding with hundreds of breeds and cat themes represented. This is a fabulous choice that any cat owner would enjoy receiving, particularly if you can find a calendar that represents the recipient’s favorite breed. If you desire to go beyond the ever-popular cat calendar, you can also purchase lovely cat-related stationary for your recipient. Another superior choice is to locate a nice cat-themed diary for your recipient.

Gifts for cat lovers may include a cat calendar, stationary set, or diary that you like. Consider buying the cat lover on your list a beautiful cat-themed coffee table book. Most cat lovers will delight in feasting on the gorgeous photography and text of a good cat coffee table book.

4. Cat themed clothes and coffee mugs. Cat lovers will enjoy receiving cat-themed T-shirts and sweaters. You can frequently find funny cat-themed coffee mugs too.

5. A work of kitty art. Cat lovers abound nowadays, so it easy to find works of art that is cat related. For the true cat lover, a lovely cat sculpture can be a wonderful and whimsical gift. You can easily find all sorts of cat-related ceramic pieces, wooden sculptures, planter, fountain, or other types of cat art. For the truly dedicated cat owner, you can even commission a local artist to do a portrait of your friend’s cat!

6. A gift subscription to Cat Fancy magazine! For people looking for gifts for cat lovers, the die-hard cat fanatic will love a subscription to a cat themed magazine. If you can’t locate cat-related magazines at your local newsstand, go to your local pet supplies store. You’ll see other magazines besides Cat Fancy that your recipient can enjoy to be receiving for many issues to come.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/best-gifts-for-cats-the-easy-way-to-pick-them-290660.html

About the Author:

For more info, see Best Gifts For Cats and The Best Gifts For Cats. Ron King is a web developer; visit his website Cat Fanciers.

Copyright 2007 Ron King. This article may be reprinted if the resource box is left intact and the links live.

Thinking of Gifts for your Kitty? is a post from: Happy Cat Blog

Feline Obsity, a Danger to Your Cat 

The growing epidemic of obesity in the United States isn’t restricted to the human population alone, an increasing number of house cats are now mirroring their owners indulgent behaviours.

In the past, most cats served a purpose; rodent control. The domesticated cat was allowed to roam freely, hunting mice and other rodents around the family farm or house. In more recent times, we have developed a real fondness for our feline companions, and although it is still common in rural areas to find barn cats, the majority of the cat population is now housebound.

As the dynamics of cat ownership has changed, so has the feline menu. No longer is Kitty hunting for meals, but meals are provided, sometimes without limitations. Therefore, Kitty has grown quite a paunch! Many cat owners love their chubby felines, but do not realize that they are killing their cats with kindness.

An obese cat is at a high risk for many preventable diseases, one of which is diabetes. The risk for diabetes in an obese cat is almost four times greater than in a slim cat. In an obese cat, the body secretes more insulin in response to the increase in blood glucose levels. Over time, the demand for insulin is greater than what the pancreas can produce, and it shuts down, resulting in diabetes.

Another very serious danger is called fatty liver disease. This illness is usually secondary to another problem that develops first; if for some reason, an obese cat suddenly stops eating, the cat’s body will send fat cells to the liver for fuel, resulting in what could be considered a "fat overdose" for the liver, which is not efficient at processing fat cells. This results in liver failure which will inevitably kill the cat if left untreated.

A few other problems, if not as serious as those listed above, can be uncomfortable for the overweight cat. The risk of arthritis is greater, as more weight is being put on the joints, resulting in weakening and lameness. A fat cat cannot maneuver itself gracefully and will often injure itself trying to jump on and off furniture.

Grooming also becomes a serious problem; how to get around all this berth? Physically, it is impossible for the poor cat to be able to keep itself clean. This results in skin conditions such as dermatitis, dandruff, and a matted coat. Basically, a smelly cat.

Cat owners need to be aware of the potential for health risks in allowing their overweight friends to continue on the path to obesity. If nothing else, the shorter life span should be enough to inspire any cat owner to take steps to ensure their cats’ health.

There are many things to consider when evaluating a cat’s lifestyle before making any changes. One of the first steps is a change in diet; the majority of commericial cat foods contain an alarming amount of carbohydrates, which contribute to weight gain. Cats are true carnivores, and should be fed as carnivores. When shopping for dry cat food, find one that lists meats as the main ingredients instead of grains. Most dry cat foods will list at least one grain; try to find a food that uses brown rice or millet which is more easily digested by cats than any other carbohydrates.

Canned foods can also contain grain products, so be wary and check labels. In general, holistic pet foods are a good place to start searching for a new food, since most holistic or natural pet food companies produce foods for cats based on their carnivorous nature.

Portion control is common sense, and the labels on the food packaging should be used as a guide only. In general, feed the lowest recommended amount listed on the package, and adjust the amount fed as needed. Keeping track of your cats’ weight with weekly weigh-ins will help

As in humans, exersise is very important for a cat. However, it is not practical to try to teach kitty to run on a treadmill…….here is where we need to be creative.

Cats love to sharpen their claws. Most cats find scratching posts to be completely useless, to be honest…..why not just use the couch? Here is a tip: cats love tree bark. There are great products out there that use cardboard products to make scratching "boxes" for cats that mimic the bark of a tree; you sprinkle some catnip on them, and they love it. This is good exersise for all cats; and psychologically very healthy also.

Toys…….there are so many out there, and a good choice is those little fuzzy mice. Store your cat’s toys in a bag of catnip; every day, give them some fresh toys and replace the ones they’ve been playing with back into the catnip bag until tomorrow. I’ve never met a cat that doesn’t like catnip, and nothing like it to get them moving.

Climb those stairs! If you have access to a staircase, use it to your advantage. Put that fat cat’s food upstairs and make him climb for it. Keep his toys and litterbox downstairs so he has to come back down later.
Invest in a harness and leash and take kitty out in the yard. Being in the outdoors may inspire her to move around and check things out.

Naturally if a cat is very obese and cannot handle some of the above activities, don’t push it. After all, we are not punishing your cat. After dietary changes are made and a few pounds are lost, activities like climbing stairs will become easier.

We love our cats, and the best way to show our love for them is to take care of them responsibly, which takes some discipline on the part of the cat owner. And remembering that a fat cat doesn’t necessarily mean a happy cat.

Used by permission

Copyright © 2008 D. Ashley

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Ian White Moderator Housecarers
Provide links from blogs, forums, websites to housecarers.com and earn 50% commission on housesitter signups. Articles available for publishing and other promotion ideas. Join Housecarers free affiliate program

Edited: 01/21/2008 at 12:19 AM by IanLWhite

 Here at Happy Cat Retreat we see a lot of overweight cats.  A lot of owners are aware of the problem and are taking the necessary steps to get their kitties weight under control.

Danger to your cat, Feline Obesity is a post from: Happy Cat Blog

We also get cats from far and wide when people are moving to our area.  We will pick up the cats at DIA airport if needed.

Happy Cat Has Clientele from far and wide is a post from: Happy Cat Blog

So your job is sending you out of town, or you are going on vacation, and you can’t take your cat.  What to do?  You are considering pet sitting but you have also heard about cat boarding. Which way should you go?

Yes, some cats prefer to stay home, maybe they all do.  We get requests for pet sitting where the owner only wants us to look in on their cat once every other day.  I’m sorry, I can’t condone pet sitting under those circumstances.  Think of the cat.  Don’t you think they would feel abandoned?

On the other hand, some cats don’t fit in very well with cat boarding.  Once in a while we will get a cat that refuses to eat for 2 days, but when they get hungry, they’ll eat…

Personally, I’m prejudiced.  I prefer cat boarding.  After the cat gets accustomed to the surroundings, I think they like it.  There is constant hubbub and activity.  Feeding the cats, cleaning the litter boxes, customers coming and going, there is a lot of day to day activity to keep them interested.

Pet sitting has the advantage in that someone can pick up the paper, collect the mail, check on house, put out the garbage etc.  Pet sitting involves a lot more that just caring for the kitty.  Pet sitting also involves a stranger going into your home.  Are you comfortable with this?

More next time in Part 2

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Pet Sitting or Cat Boarding, Pros and Cons – Part 1 is a post from: Happy Cat Blog

Are you planning to go away for several weeks and don’t know what to do about your cat?  Well help may be as close as your nearest cat boarding facility.  If you haven’t checked into this, this may be an answer to your plight.

First you should arrange a visit to the cat boarding facility.  When you visit, keep these points in mind:

•  The cat boarding owners should ask for emergency numbers where you can be reached as well as your Vet’s phone number.  In addition they should have a plan on where to take the cat in case of an emergency.
• Trust your senses (as well as your common sense) when visiting a cat boarding kennel as a possible "vacation" spot for your cat.
• Make sure that the whole cat boarding facility, outdoor and indoor areas included, is clean and orderly.
• Make sure there are no offensive smells. There should be adequate ventilation. A well-run cat boarding facility should not stink of kitty odors.
• Make sure the temperature is adequate, not too warm and not too cold.
• If the cat boarding facility has an outdoor enclosed area, ask to see it.. It should be clean.
   
• The cat boarding facility should ask to see the cat’s vaccinations and will require proof of certain shots.
• All responsible cat boarding owners and operators will show you each area in which the cats are kept.
• The outdoor area – and the whole kennel should be very secure. Many cats will attempt to escape, so talk to the cat boarding owners about this if you’re worried.

If possible, try to drop in unannounced.  See if you can tour the facility when you weren’t expected.
 
Some last tips…

If possible, you may want to consider several short stays for your cat to get it used to the cat boarding.  You could try an overnight or weekend stay.  That way, both you and the cat are more at ease when the time comes for a longer stay.

Bring along your cat’s bed and favorite toys. When you leave, be positive and upbeat.   Keep the goodbyes short and sweet.

Ask for a phone number where you can call and check on how your cat is doing.  This will make you sleep better. You may return and find that your cat enjoyed his cat boarding  "vacation" just as much as you did!

Fort Collins Boarding|Cats is a post from: Happy Cat Blog

What is Luxury Pet Boarding?  Well, obviously it implies a higher standard.  When we started our luxury pet boarding facility, it was because we had a cat that was bitten by a rattlesnake.  Our cat spent 8 weeks at a veteraniaran.  While we visited our cat, we noticed numerous cats being boarded 24 hours a day in a small 2×2x2 cube.  We figured there had to be a better way.

Our luxury pet boarding facility is built for cats only.  Each cat has a condo 4×4x8, with it’s own window,  several shelves for climbing, and a separate secure screened outdoor area for each cat.

If you are looking to board your cat, look around in your area for some Luxury Pet Boarding.  More than likely it won’t be any more expensive than leaving your cat with a vet.  And….the cat will be a lot happier.

Luxury Pet Boarding is a post from: Happy Cat Blog

Fort Collins Pet Boarding is a post from: Happy Cat Blog

If you are going to be travelling, you may want to consider cat boarding for your kitty.  While you are probably a little uptight about someone else taking care of your cat, cat boarding can give you peace of mind while you are away.

With cat boarding, there can be an adjustment period that depends on the cat.  Younger cats adjust quickly.  Older cats sometimes take 1 to 2 days to adjust.  But the main benefit I see in cat boarding is there is activity around.  They get to go out for their own personal playtime each day.  They can walk by the other cat cages and say "hi" or "hiss".  At any rate, they have a little excitement in their day.  I think most cats after they have adjusted, really like the diversion from their home life.

In fact, I would say 50% even are reluctant to leave.  Their owners come to pick them up and the cat seems indifferent, like "I’m doing fine, leave me alone…".  Of course they could be pouting too…You know how cats are. Think about cat boarding the next time you travel

Cat Boarding In Fort Collins Colorado is a post from: Happy Cat Blog

If you are going to be travelling, you may want to consider pet sitting for your cat. While you are probably a little uptight about someone else taking care of your cat.  Pet sitting can give you peace of mind while you are away.

We are pet sitting for some of our customers.  Some of them agree to have us visit their cat twice daily.  Others only want to pet sitting once a day.  And still others, only want pet sitting their cat  every other day.

Of course I have the most problem with that last request. Pet sitting a cat every other day is too long a time for the cat to be alone, in my humble opinion.  Cats like to know there is someone around.  Yes, they sleep a lot of the time, but still I think they appreciate knowing someone is around.

One factor to take into consideration when looking into pet sitting, is the credibility and reliability of the pet sitter.  Be sure to get references and check them out.

Another consideration is who has access to your home while you have contracted for pet sitting?  No one except the pet sitter should have access during your time away..

Why do I say this?  Because last winter I was pet sitting over the Christmas Holiday and there was a big snow storm.  When I went to the home to pet sit, the garage door was open half way and the entrance to the house through the garage door entryway was unlocked.

Seems the next door neighbors girls had a key and came over and shoveled the walks.  Only problem was, they left the garage door open and house unlocked.  What if they had left another door open and the cat got out?  Or, someone had come in and vandalized the house.  In this case, none of that happened and everything worked out OK.  But I now have another requirement if I am pet sitting for someone, — no one else is to have access.

Cat Boarding or Pet Sitting? Which Should You Choose is a post from: Happy Cat Blog