Type 2 diabetes is the most common form in the United States and occurs in both cats and people. Feline diabetes, a treatable and manageable disease on the rise, affects approximately one in 200 cats nationwide(1).

"Similar to humans, obesity predisposes cats to diabetes, making diet a major factor in maintaining a cat's health," says Ruth MacPete, DVM, a San Diego based veterinarian. "Feline diabetes, like most diseases, is easier to treat the earlier it is diagnosed."

Early warning signs of feline diabetes include:

    Increased thirst
    Sudden increase in appetite
    Sudden weight loss (despite an increase in appetite)
    Increased urination
    Increased lethargy

Most cats with feline diabetes may still maintain an active and healthy lifestyle. Along with appropriate diet and exercise, veterinarians often recommend insulin injections.

"Veterinarians are fortunate enough to now have PROZINC, the first and only FDA approved protamine zinc insulin. PROZINC has an appropriate duration of effect specifically for cats, making it an ideal first choice to help them regulate their feline diabetic patients," says MacPete. As with all insulins, cats should be evaluated for pre-existing conditions and currently prescribed medications prior to treatment with PROZINC. Routine monitoring of clinical signs and blood parameters, such as glucose and fructosamine, is essential to maintain a regulated cat.

PROZINC is for use in cats only. The safety and effectiveness of PROZINC insulin in kittens and in breeding, pregnant, and lactating cats has not been evaluated.

While November is American Diabetes Month®, pet owners should monitor their cats for symptoms of feline diabetes year-round. The American Association of Feline Practitioners recommends that a veterinarian examine cats at least once a year and twice annually if they are over the age of seven(2). ]]> http://www.felineonline.com/feline-diabetes-increase/feed/ 0 http://www.felineonline.com/can-i-stop-my-cat-hunting/ http://www.felineonline.com/can-i-stop-my-cat-hunting/#comments Thu, 28 Jul 2011 15:22:43 +0000 admin http://www.felineonline.com/?p=43 Your cat may look loveably innocent and placid as it sits on your sofa or pads about your home, but the truth is that however domesticated they seem, the humble moggy carries some fine hunting instincts deep within.

Blessed with explosive speed, great agility and cunning, it’s estimated that the average cat kills around 40 animals a year, although some are deadlier hunters than others. So if you’re a cat owner, you may have to get used to a steady stream of small dead animals being brought into your home – something that can be both annoying and distressing.

In their nature

Cats can catch a variety of small animals, including mice and other small mammals, birds and bats. In fact, part of the reason they were domesticated in first place was due to their fine abilities to kill disease-carrying rodents. The behaviour can be particularly acute in neutered females, who in the absence of having young ones to care for, may be transferring their attentions to you.

While wild big cats such as tigers have to hunt to live, and so learn the essential skills from birth, domestic cats are often not taught the essentials by parents. This may not prevent them from developing into skilled hunters, but it can mean that they do not learn the art of delivering a clean kill by biting the nape of the neck of prey.

This can mean a messy, drawn-out death for their prey – and distress for you if the animal is brought into your kitchen or living room. And if your cat eats what it has killed, this could also make it ill – something which could mean trips to the vet, and which pet insurance could help protect against.

What can you do?

The simplest way to curb your cat’s killing is to keep it in at night, when the hunting instinct is strongest. While it has been suggested that not letting them out at night – and therefore suppressing their natural nocturnal instinct to hunt – can be cruel, it is believed that by limiting its opportunities, the animal’s desire to hunt also naturally decreases.

In addition to limiting the opportunity to get at small animals, this policy will also help keep down numbers of feral cats – if your pet isn’t neutered, then it may well be contributing to unwanted litters of kittens, which may ultimately add to the feral cat population. In addition, feral cats – which need to hunt to survive – pose a greater threat to wildlife than your pampered pet. In fact, the RSPCA recommends that, unless you specifically want your pet to breed, then it is a good idea to have it neutered.

The RSPB suggests that you fit your cat with a collar with a bell or a sonar device, something which will hopefully give birds a sufficient heads-up that a hunter is approaching. As cats learn to move without rattling a single bell, it may be better to fit them with two devices to make it harder to approach stealthily.

And although this may sound counter-intuitive, it is believed that it can be a good idea to attract birds to your garden by providing a birdbath, nesting boxes and food – the idea being that there is safety – and greater alertness – in numbers.

Issued by Sainsbury’s Finance

If you or a member of your family have allergy problems, the cause may be your cat; however, there are many things you come in contact with that could also be the source of the problem. These may include household dust and molds, feathers, cigarette smoke, pesticide spray, household cleaners etc. Therefore, don't give up your cat so quickly!

Once you determine the cat is the cause and you are willing to put forth some effort to possibly relieve the problem, you both might be able to live under the same roof without severe allergy problems.*

Solving the problem depends on the severity and sensitivity of the allergic individual. In the case of pet allergy, the hair isn't the cause, it is the cat's dander (dandruff) and saliva (which is transferred to the fir during grooming). However, most people are seldom allergic to just one substance.

One or a combination of the following may significantly help with allergy problems: Allergy Remedy, allergizing your home and pet, hyposensitization or prescription drugs.

Allergy Remedy (Linda East, DVM)

Crush one 5 mg acepromazine tablet
Add 30 ml (1 ounce) of water
Store in an amber glass bottle in refrigerator
Add 6 drops of mixture to cat's food daily

Acepromazine is an animal tranquilizer, available only by prescription from a veterinarian. The amount given for allergies is such a small dosage that there are no tranquilizing effects, but a chemical change does take place in the cat's saliva (which is what many people react to).

About 75% of those using this formula report at least some improvement, and about half say their allergies improve dramatically. Please contact your veterinarian, if you would like to try this remedy. Your cat must be a patient of a veterinarian before he or she can prescribe any medication.

*If you or a member of your family develop allergy symptoms, consult a reputable allergist. Insist on a thorough testing; scratch tests are not thought to be conclusive by many in the field. Also, take care in choosing a medical advisor who is aware of the importance of companion animals in the household and does not immediately advise 'get rid of it" as the only option.

ALLERGIZING YOUR HOME AND PET

If you can minimize the non-cat allergens in the air you breathe and control the cat-oriented allergens, your body may be able to tolerate the presence of a cat.

Allergizing Your Home:

Emphasis should be placed on getting rid of allergens in the bedroom, the place where adults spend approximately one-third of their time and children one-half of their time. Not allowing pets in bedrooms would be very helpful.

Use air-conditioning and a humidifier in the appropriate seasons. Clean/change filters on a regular basis. Ideal humidity levels are about 30 to 40 percent.

Use of air purifiers: If possible, invest in a large commercial-size air purifier because room-size units are usually not adequate. An air purifier cleans the air of animal dander, dust, molds, fur, and other air-borne irritants.

Clean up the dander that has accumulated all over the house by vacuuming thoroughly. Damp wipe all counters and furniture. Thoroughly wash all bedspreads, sheets, throw rugs and slip covers, etc. It may take several house cleanings to allergize the home. If this is not accomplished, your family and your pet will simply be picking up loose dander from the house even after the pet has been allergized.

The more washable surfaces in the home, the better, e.g. wood or linoleum floors, furniture with simple lines and Venetian blinds that wipe clean are better than carpets, upholstered and ornate furniture, and draperies that collect dust. Nylon and synthetic fabrics and rug piles attract and hold dust much more than wood and nature fabrics.

Special non-allergenic pillows are available. You can also use dacron or other synthetics, not kapok, feather or foam rubber which grows mold, especially in damp areas.

People with allergies are usually sensitive to odors and odors can even trigger an attack. It is advisable to avoid scented make-up, scented tissues, perfumes, tobacco smoke, etc Also, there are some laundry detergents and fabric softeners which are irritants.

Cat litter: plan clay litter is usually less irritating than scented litter. Deodorizing filters that contain chemicals only mask odors. Use litter which has low-dust or is dust free. Pour litter slowly into the pan to keep dust at a minimum.

If possible have someone in the household without allergies do the vacuuming and litter box cleaning. If this is not an option, wear a pollen mask which can be obtained from a local drug store.

Free roaming (allowing your cat unattended outdoors) of the pet is discouraged. If your cat is allowed to roam free, it may be bringing home many irritants such as pollen, plant juices, poison ivy, etc.

Keep the yard free of dead leaves in the fall, otherwise mold will flourish. Mold can also be abundant in the grass during prolonged wet periods in the spring. In addition, live Christmas trees also harbor molds.

Allergizing Your Cat:

The cat should be combed/brushed daily to control shedding. A coat conditioner should be added to its food to help prevent dry skin and reduce shedding. Coat conditioners can be purchased from pet supply stores or your veterinarian.

Bathe your cat about every six weeks. Use a veterinarian-approved shampoo and rinse the cat very well. Towel off the excess water when the pet is in the tub or sink. Then saturate the coat with a solution that is one part fabric softener, such as Downy, and at least four parts water. Work it into the coat and do not rinse off. This solution coats the hair and skin, and keeps the dander down.

If you are having difficulty with the washing, Cat Care Society can provide information on bathing techniques. Also, there are pet groomers in most cities and towns who have expertise in bathing cats. Usually for a small fee, they will bathe your cat(s) for you.

You can also put a light coating of Downy fabric softener on the cat daily. Apply a small amount of a Downy to a wet cloth and rub it over the cat.

Allerpet: Available at pet stores

How to Reduce Allergy Irritants for Baby:

Avoid overheating or sudden chilling. Extreme temperatures and sudden changes in temperature can lower the infant's resistance if he/she is exposed to an irritant.

Stuffed animals and toys made of fabric are dust collectors. It is advisable to keep these objects away from the baby. Plastic, metal and wood toys, and washable animals are preferable.

Before putting new clothes on your baby, wash them thoroughly to remove any excess dye or other chemicals that may be irritants.

Don't apply oils or bath lotions too heavily or too often.

HOMEOPATHY

There are remedies available at health food stores to help people with their allergies. Many people report great relief after taking these medications.

HYPOSENSITIZATION

It is also possible that medical treatment can be undertaken in the form of hyposensitization. A physician administers a series of injections of cat allergen extract that are gradually increased in strength until the patient is able to tolerate the cat's presence with minimal if any discomfort. Once this tolerance level is reached, maintenance injections keep the symptoms of the allergy under control so that the owner can live with the cat comfortably. Hyposensitization isn't always successful, but it is worth a try.

PRESCRIPTION DRUGS

Prescription drugs have had varying degrees of success. They are for prevention and are not 100% effective. Please ask your doctor about prescription drugs for pet allergies.

CONCLUSION

Very often, people build up a "resistance" to their own pets and find that their allergy problem decreased as time passed. This is just one more reason not to give up your pet. While you are working at cleaning the air in your home environment, your body is probably also working toward an adjustment.

If you are willing to invest some time and effort, it may be possible to avoid the trauma of giving up a beloved pet due to family members suffering from allergies.

REFERENCES

Being Homeless is Nothing to Sneeze At. Published by the Associated Humane Societies, Inc.

"Taming the Environment". Cat Fancy, February 1988, pages 17-18 ]]> http://www.felineonline.com/cat-allergies-dealing-with-a-cat-allergy/feed/ 0 http://www.felineonline.com/diabetes-in-cats-feline-diabetes/ http://www.felineonline.com/diabetes-in-cats-feline-diabetes/#comments Fri, 17 Dec 2010 16:15:25 +0000 admin http://www.felineonline.com/diabetes-in-cats-feline-diabetes/ More Fat Cats May Mean More Feline Diabetes

This American Diabetes Month, pet owners should remember that cats can get the disease, too 

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (November 10, 2010) – Diabetes isn’t just a human disease.

In American Diabetes Month® – pet owners should know that the feline members of their families could suffer from the condition, too.

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form in the United States and occurs in both cats and people. Feline diabetes, a treatable and manageable disease on the rise, affects approximately one in 200 cats nationwide.

"Similar to humans, obesity predisposes cats to diabetes, making diet a major factor in maintaining a cat’s health," says Ruth MacPete, DVM, a San Diego based veterinarian "Feline diabetes, like most diseases, is easier to treat the earlier it is diagnosed."

Symptoms of feline diabetes include:

    * Increased thirst
    * Sudden increase in appetite
    * Sudden weight loss (despite an increase in appetite)
    * Increased urination
    * Increased lethargy

Most cats with feline diabetes may still maintain an active and healthy lifestyle.

Along with appropriate diet and exercise, veterinarians often recommend insulin injections.

"Veterinarians are fortunate enough to now have PROZINC® insulin, the first and only FDA approved long-acting insulin for cats, available to help them effectively regulate their feline diabetic patients,” says MacPete. As with all insulins, cats should be evaluated for pre-existing conditions and currently prescribed medications prior to treatment with PROZINC. Routine monitoring of clinical signs and blood parameters, such as glucose and fructosamine, is essential to maintain a regulated cat.

While November is American Diabetes Month®, pet owners should monitor their cats for symptoms of feline diabetes year-round. The American Association of Feline Practitioners recommends that a veterinarian examine cats at least once a year and twice annually if they are over the age of seven.

For more information about feline diabetes, please visit www.MyCatHasDiabetes.com. ]]> http://www.felineonline.com/diabetes-in-cats-feline-diabetes/feed/ 0 http://www.felineonline.com/bupas-red-court-welcomes-feline-friend/ http://www.felineonline.com/bupas-red-court-welcomes-feline-friend/#comments Tue, 06 Jul 2010 14:33:33 +0000 admin http://www.felineonline.com/?p=35 Bupa’s Red Court Nursing Home, Croydon, Surrey has welcomed a new addition to the home in the form of a cat called Nala. The two year old pedigree Bengal was rehomed in March from the Cats Protection branch in Croydon.

Cats Protection have been making a difference to the lives of cats for the last 83 years and now have over 250 volunteer-run branches and 29 adoption centres around the UK.

Nala has been a comfort to many of the residents at the home and regularly snuggles up to them at night. She is a firm favourite with residents, relatives and staff and has settled in extremely well.

It is widely acknowledged that pets can positively benefit the well-being of elderly owners. For many elderly people living on their own, their pets are their reason for living. Pets provide significant health benefits including reduced blood pressure and cholesterol; improved recovery from heart attacks and strokes; better social interactions in people with dementia; and fewer GP visits.

Pauline Hamadi, home manager of Bupa’s Red Court Nursing Home, said: “Nala is a very loving and affectionate cat and has made a real difference to the lives of the residents in our home. It feels like she has lived here forever and I don’t know what we did before she came along. She really is a very a welcome addition to the home.”

Heather McCann, Cats Protection’s Chairman and volunteer with the charity’s Croydon Branch, said: “Nala is a great addition to Red Court and this has been one of the most successful rehoming partnerships that we have ever had. She is loved by all the staff and residents and I believe she is making a real difference to their lives, which makes us very proud.”

Bupa Care Services

o We operate 304 nursing and residential homes in the UK and care for almost 18,500 people
o We are the only company to offer Alzheimer’s Society-trained Dementia Champions in our UK specialist care homes – over 25% of our beds in the UK are registered for specialist dementia care
o Our care homes are open to everyone – over 70 percent of Bupa’s UK residents receive state funding
o Bupa Care Services employs over 27,000 people
o Bupa also owns care homes in Spain, Australia, and New Zealand

Cats Protection has a new helpline number: 03000 12 12 12. Calls charged at standard rate.

Four cats have been shortlisted in each category – Hero Cat, Ultimate Survivor, Most Incredible Story, Best Friends and the Purina Lifetime Achievement Award.

Finalists include heroic puss Tom, who alerted his owner to a burglar in the house; brave Bomber, who helped prevent a house fire; Marmite, the “moggy midwife” who helped his pregnant owner when she went into labour and Rambo, who at 27 may be Britain’s oldest cat.

The Rescue Cat Awards, organised by Cats Protection and sponsored by Purina PetCare, are designed to celebrate the real-life stories of heroism, bravery and survival in the cat world.

Winners will be chosen for each category with one lucky puss winning the overall title of Rescue Cat of the Year 2010.

Owners face a nail-biting wait until Wednesday 4 August when the awards ceremony will be held at the New London Theatre in the West End – a fitting venue as it was the home to musical Cats for its record-breaking 21-year run.

Celebrity judges who will announce the winners on the day are TV comedian and presenter Iain Lee, actress Lesley Joseph, children’s TV favourite Sarah-Jane Honeywell and TV vet Emma Milne.

According to Kate Bunting, the Awards organiser at Cats Protection, narrowing down the entries to a shortlist of 20 was a difficult task.

She said: “We were really impressed with the quality of the entries this year, all of which summed up what is so special about rescue cats. Some of the tales we heard were incredibly moving, whilst others were amazing and inspiring – and that just illustrates the many qualities of the UK moggy.

“It was a tough job to narrow the entries down, but all these fantastic cats certainly deserved their place in the final for showing just how remarkable rescue cats are.”

TV presenter and comedian Iain Lee, who will be judging the Best Friends category, said: “My cat Velvet is a great feline friend – as well as being great fun to have around, she has an uncanny knack of turning up for cuddles and strokes whenever I am feeling low. I’m looking forward to hearing other uplifting stories of friendship between cats and their owners.”

Finalists in Cats Protection’s Rescue Cat Awards 2010

Best Friends Category

Oscar

Lovely Oscar has transformed the lives of the elderly residents at the care home where he was adopted from Cats Protection. Initially a stray, he was taken in by management who were desperate to improve the atmosphere for people at the home. Oscar settled in immediately, preferring to spend time indoors with residents and has made a huge impact to their quality of life. Care home manager Joyce Brennan said: “For many people, going into a care home means giving up their pets. We all love Oscar and he brings a lot of joy to the home.”

Twinkle

When Hannah Conneely adopted three-legged Twinkle, she had no idea what an impact the pint-sized puss would have on her life. Having lost a leg in a road accident, tiny Twinkle helped Hannah cope with her marriage break-up and the prospect of raising her two children alone. But it was when Hannah discovered she had a benign tumour in her left breast that Twinkle really became a shining star, staying by her owner’s side during her gruelling treatment. As Hannah says: “Twinkle is the most lovable pet and my number one carer. Without her my outlook wouldn’t be quite as rosy.”

Tillie

Loyal Tillie has proved to be a lifeline to owner Sara Griffiths since she adopted her from Cats Protection. Sara had to undergo two major operations for a benign inoperable brain tumour and as a result suffers severe headaches. But however tough things get, Tillie is at Sara’s side lending a comforting paw. Sara says: “I would be totally lost without my fluffy friend who is always there when I need her.”

Sooty

If you were ill, what would help you make a recovery? For Dilys Fordham, 96, the answer is Sooty – her ever-loving black and white cat. Dilys has had several stays in hospital since adopting Sooty four years ago, and her loving cat is a constant support. When her family visits her in hospital Sooty comes along too and sits as near as possible to her when he senses she is in pain. Dilys says: “He is such a good friend to me, I don’t think I could go on without him.”

Most Incredible Story Category

Marmite

When Lindsey Davies suddenly went into labour alone, she was terrified – until her pet moggy Marmite stepped in as emergency midwife. Loving Marmite didn’t leave Lindsey’s side for two hours as she waited for her partner to arrive home and helped keep the mum-to-be calm and relaxed. It wasn’t the first time Marmite had proved to be a vital support – he was a constant support to Lindsey who had suffered painful conditions of pre-eclampsia and anaemia during a difficult pregnancy. He was thrilled when baby Ruby arrived safe and well, and is just as protective of the new arrival.

Leo

It’s a good job cats have nine lives because lucky Leo, now aged 10, has been through his fair share. Abandoned at a week old, he was hand reared at a rescue centre. Since then he has survived a car accident, a fall from a tree, a snake bite and a fall into a trench of wet concrete. But his biggest battle came when he was diagnosed with diabetes. Despite daily insulin injections, Leo tolerates his treatment well and is a much loved family pet. Owner Theresa Palmer says: “Leo stops half way through his food, stands patiently while I inject him and then finishes his food!”

Albert

Abandoned puss Albert sparked a bomb alert when passengers notified staff about an unattended bag dumped at London Underground’s Victoria Line. Closer inspection of the holdall found it to contain nothing more sinister than a very terrified black-and-white puss. Missing part of one of his legs, the sorry-looking moggy was rushed to a rescue centre where he was named Albert because of the Victoria connection. And when new owner Sian O’Shea heard about the little cat’s plight, Albert was finally able to reach his purr-fect destination – a loving new home.

Flip

Hapless Flip was an adventurous kitten but his love of car engines was his most worrying habit. When he went missing for six weeks, his owners feared the worst until they got a call to say he’d been found at a tyre warehouse. It turned out that Flip, attracted by the warmth of the engine, had snuck under the bonnet of a large van unbeknown to its driver. He had then travelled 20 miles before becoming trapped in the warehouse, surviving by licking rainwater from the vehicles. Fortunately Flip was microchipped and so was quickly reunited with his loving and very relieved owners.

Hero Cat Category

Tom

It was an ordinary evening as Mary London settled down to watch TV. Suddenly, she noticed Tom acting strangely – ears flat, back arched, fur raised and eyes like saucers. When he started to pat her leg and run back and forth to the door, Mary decided to investigate. It wasn’t long before Mary found the source of Tom’s anxiety – an intruder was hiding in the study. Startled and afraid, she dialled 999 and the man fled. Mary said: “The police were full of praise for Tom’s actions and agreed he is a wonderful little cat because he could have saved my life.e.

Bomber

Brave Bomber saved the day when he prevented a fire at owner Marilyn Haisman’s home. Adopted as an indoor cat because he has FIV, Bomber enjoys all the creature comforts of home. So one winter’s day, Marilyn popped some heat pads in the microwave to warm his bed. Having left the kitchen, she had no idea the pads had ignited and were seconds away from causing a fire. Fortunately the alarm was raised when she noticed Bomber behaving strangely and “howling like a banshee”. Marilyn said: “I will never forget the day I believe Bomber’s actions prevented a fire and he became my hero”.

Leoni

Feisty puss Leoni lived up to her reputation as a neighbourhood busybody when she foiled a burglary at a neighbouring property. Well known for her curtain twitching habits, Leoni couldn’t resist going to investigate when she noticed something unusual going on at a neighbour’s house at 2am one morning. Unbeknown to the sleeping homeowners, burglars had entered the house and were loading a vehicle with valuables. Fortunately, Leoni was on the case. Slinking in through the forced-open front door, she marched upstairs meowing at the top of her voice – alerting the householder to the intruders, who fled when disturbed.

Bobby

When Lyn Stewart started slipping in and out of consciousness as she recovered from a serious car accident in which she suffered a broken neck, it was her cat Bobby who came to her aid. Regularly finding herself completely unable to move or even blink, Bobby appears close to her face and pats her mouth, bringing her out of the paralysis. “Bobby is my lifeline and I love him very, very much,” says Lyn. “I cannot imagine life without him – he’s become an incredible companion, carer and friend.”

Ultimate Survivor Category

Nelson

Nelson was close to death when he collapsed in a garden during a freezing winter – emaciated, blind in one eye, with just three teeth and in a terrible condition. Debra Tate took him in and, after receiving veterinary care and TLC for the first time in his tough life, Nelson pulled through. Vets estimated he was in his mid-teens and said he was a truly remarkable cat to have survived his nomadic existence. Owner Debra said: “He has no manners, runs off with your tea when your back is turned and will never be a cover model, but he’s our treasure.”

Purrdy

Poor Purrdy had a terrible start to life when she failed to meet the standards of an unscrupulous cat breeder. Thrown in a caravan along with 50 other “rejects” she was fed cheap dog food and deprived of human love and a normal life. Eventually the caravan was discovered by animal welfare workers who said it was one of the worst cases of cruelty they had ever seen. Sadly, many of the other cats were so ill they had to be put to sleep. But with plenty of TLC Purrdy pulled through and whilst still very shy, she is finally enjoying the happy life she deserves.

Willow

Willow was on death’s door when he arrived at a vet surgery in an appalling condition; painfully thin, dehydrated and suffering bouts of vomiting. Vets discovered a loop of tough cotton embedded in the flesh under his tongue and immediately operated. Five hours later and, after six incisions in his stomach and intestines, vets had removed many feet of tangled thread. After making a remarkable recovery, Willow won the heart of vet nurse Deborah Horley, who adopted him.

She explained: “Willow has proved to be a real fighter to pull through.”

Rambo

If surviving well into old age is a sign of good living, Rambo must be enjoying a truly wonderful life! Originally adopted by owner Irene Gray back in 1987 when he was four, Rambo is now the ripe old age of 27 – a staggering 124 in cat years. Despite his eyesight and hearing deteriorating, Rambo is enjoying his twilight years and may be Britain’s oldest cat. Irene says: “He’s still very active and loves life, especially the garden and his creature comforts. He loves nothing more than sitting outside in the shade of the apple tree.”

Purina Lifetime Achievement Award Category

Scarf

Moggy Scarf is living proof of the remarkable bond between man and cat. As a young boy, Andy Taylor faced problems with his family, leading him to go and live with his grandmother, who adopted Scarf to help him cope. Her plan worked and Scarf and Andy formed a unique bond which helped him deal with his tough upbringing and later his grandmother’s death. Thirteen years on, Andy has grown up, settled down and married yet still Scarf is by his side – a lifelong friend who has been there through thick and thin.

Tess

Rescue cat Tess has proved to be a real lifeline to her owner Samantha Marshall since adopting her 10 years ago. Samantha suffers from a personality disorder which makes it difficult for her to form relationships and communicate with other people. But despite some of the bleakest moments in her life, she has found the strength to carry on through Tess. She says: “I know everyone thinks their cat is special and all cats are, but when that cat literally keeps you going day after day, well, that’s priceless and a gift I’m honoured to have.”

Jasmine

Born in a barn 11 years ago, feral kitten Jasmine was either abandoned or orphaned and left to fend for herself. Fortunately, she was taken in by an animal sanctuary and rehomed to Jocelyn Trickett and her daughter Martine. With plenty of TLC, Jasmine was transformed from feisty and frightened feral into a loving and loyal pet. For Jocelyn, who is elderly and disabled, Jasmine’s remarkable turnaround has given her a lifelong friend and companion.

Oscar

Oscar appeared at the home of Stuart Hartley’s mother one day, in poor condition and missing his tail. Taking pity on him, Mrs Hartley took him in and nursed him back to health. A few years later, Mrs Hartley died but the companionship and love he showed her was so much that the priest paid tribute to Oscar at her funeral. Following her death, Stuart adopted Oscar, and he is a happy reminder of his mother and a “daily delight”. He says: “Whilst sitting outside the front door, I hear a constant stream of “Hello Oscar” from passers-by”.

To find out more about adopting one of the 7,000 rescue cats currently in the care of Cats Protection, please contact the charity’s National Helpline on 03000 12 12 12.

The following Iams canned cat foods are included:

Product Name Date on Bottom of Can
———— ———————
Iams ProActive Health canned Cat and Kitten Food -
all varieties of 3 oz & 5.5 oz cans 09/2011 to 06/2012
————————————————– ——————

This recall is limited to only Iams canned cat food distributed in North America. No other Iams pet food is involved.

Early signs of thiamine deficiency may include loss of appetite, salivation, vomiting and weight loss. In advanced cases, signs may include ventroflexion (downward curving) of the neck, wobbly gait, falling, circling and seizures. Contact your veterinarian immediately if your cat is displaying any of these signs. If treated promptly, thiamine deficiency is typically reversible.

Consumers who have purchased canned cat food with these codes should discard it. For further information or a product refund, call P&G toll-free at 877-340-8826 (Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM EST).

It really depends on what your family is looking for in a pet. We’ve put together a list of the top 10 cat breeds for families and some other basics for you to keep in mind before you bring kitty home from either the breeder or rescue home.

What Families Look for in a Cat

Adopting a cat is a very important decision – one that comes with the responsibility for taking care of another life. You and your family must be ready to commit to the lifetime of the animal which means, for indoor cats, 15-20 years. Ask yourself if your living situation is stable enough to support a cat for that long. Also, consider the financial obligation of supporting a cat – food, litter, vet bills.

Most families with children want a cat that is mild-tempered, playful, and easy to take care of. Grooming is an important aspect of taking care of a cat, so cats with short hair may be better suited for families. If anyone in the household is allergic to pet dander, check with a veterinarian for the best cat breed.

Whether or not you adopt a kitten or an adult cat depends on how your family is comprised. If you have an elderly person or a child under the age of five, you may opt for an adult cat. Kittens are very rambunctious and can cause a bit of mayhem in the house – playful attacks, scratching, and biting as they learn to control their behaviour. Children and senior citizens can be hurt as well as the kitten!

1 – Persian

The Persian cat has been one of the most popular breeds in history. They are high maintenance because of their long, thick fur but have affectionate and loyal personalities.

2 – Abyssinian

The Abyssinian is a cat that behaves more like a dog. With a ticked coat and medium length fur, this cat requires grooming, but perhaps only once a week. Athletic, playful, curious, and smart, this cat is ideal for families with playful children and other cats.

3 – Maine Coon

Beautiful and large, the Maine Coon is a long-haired cat like the Persian. Loving, gentle, and protective this cat can surprise you with its astounding energy, intelligence, and playfulness. These cats are hardy and do well with other pets.

4 – Siamese

The Siamese is an ancient cat that likes to talk! Slim and athletic with short fur that lies close to the skin, these cats love to be pampered. They usually attach to one person in the family and are extremely loyal. Very intelligent and loving, it is best to get two Siamese at the same time. $200-$400/£100-£250.

5 – Ragdoll

The Ragdoll is one of the cutest cats known probably because when you pick them up, they tend to go limp in your arms. Fairly large – up to 20 pounds for the males and 15 for females – these cats have blue eyes, medium-length silky fur, and are incredibly affectionate. They do well with other cats and older children. $200-$400/£100-£250.

6 – British Shorthair

The British Shorthair is a nice looking cat with a dense, easy-to-care for coat. Excellent at hunting with a loving and loyal nature, these cats enjoy good health and are great with the kids. Hardy cats that love to play, the British Shorthair is ideal for a family with other cats as well. $200-$600/£100-£450.

7 – American Shorthair

The American Shorthair is much like the British Shorthair but is descended from the cats that came to the United States on the Mayflower. It is one of the most popular breeds of family cats. $300-$1300.

8 – Birman

The Birman is a blue-eyed beauty with white paws and even temperaments. They can easily adjust to any daily routine making them ideal for families and introducing other kitties to the mix. Birman often wait for their families to return home. $300-$600/£150-£450.

9 – Oriental

Much like the Siamese, the Oriental has a much broader spectrum of hair lengths and coat colours. Sweet-natured and less talkative than the Siamese, the Oriental is very affectionate, loyal, and people-oriented. This cat loves children and other cats. $300-$600.

10 – Sphynx

The Sphynx is an extraordinary cat that comes in many skin colours but lacks fur. It is ideal for individuals that may have an allergy. Lively and athletic, these cats love to climb and play. Loyal and loving they are perfect as an only cat as they demand attention. $600-$1000/£400-£850.

In a multi-cat household, social grooming occurs, the cats will spend hours washing each other and will indulge in this social grooming throughout the day. They will usually focus their attention onto the hard to reach areas like behind the ears and the back of the neck.

We can help out too, cats love being petted and touched and will learn to see this as an enjoyable and pleasurable activity.

As central heating is more common and houses are kept at a constant temperature all year round it is important for cats to have a helping hand. Cats will moult all year round, this is a deviation from in the wild where they would only moult in the warmer summer months when they would need to get rid of their thicker winter coat.

Both longhaired and shorthaired cats moult. cats are well equipped for grooming themselves.Tongue, teeth, paws and claws are all utilised.

The cats tongue has a rough surface like sand paper, which when combined with saliva, removes small particles of dirt and sticky substances from the coat.

The front paws come into play when trying to reach the neck for instance. Even though cats are incredibly flexible ther are some areas where they just can’t reach with their tongue. So using the front paws like a flannel, they lick the paws then use them to wipe these areas.

As the coat dries, the cat uses its small incisors to nibble the fur back into place and at the same time removes any larger particles of dirt that are still stuck in the coat.

The back claws are used like a large comb and remove any large particles of dirt. Whilst the cat is preening itself it is covering its coat in its own perfume which can then be used to mark its own terrotory.

The process of grooming causes the cat to ingest a certain amount of fur. This leads to a build up of fur balls in the stomach. To prevent these from forming regular grooming is required.

As it is much easier to get a young cat used to a routine introduce your cat to you helping a hand as soon a possible. Once your cat has got used to the idea he will look forward to these grooming sessions!

1)Allergies

Ginko Biloba

This has a powerful anti-inflamatory action and inhibits bronchial constriction and hyper sensitivity. It can aleviate symptoms as diverse as asthma alergies and memory problems.

It is best crushed into the food, but is not recommended for pregnant or lactating cats.

2)Bacterial infection/Immune System

Bee Propolis

Propolis has been used throughout history to fight germs. It has been used to heal wounds and tumours and also for abscesses. It is probably one of the most effective natural antibiotics ever and has antibacterial, anti-viral and anti-parasitic properties.

Bee propolis is available in tablet form and also as a cream

3)Bad Breath

Aloe Vera Toothpaste.

Known for its healing properties, aloe vera has been shown to have beneficial effects in the treatment of various mouth problems from gingivitus to bad breath. The paste is generally mixed with Bee propolis for added antibacterial asistance.

Bee Propolis

Strengthens the immune system and is antibacterial. Some bacteria are extemely sensitive to propolis.

Chlorella

One of its principal functions is combating bad odors, bad breath as well as body odor. This is apparently due to the magnesium it contains.

Sage

This belongs to the Labiate family which helps improve rheumatism, neuralgia, liver conditions, teeth and breath.

4)Cure Alls & First Aid

A selection of natural remedies have been shown to improve just about any sickness. Its always worthwhile therefore to keep at least one of them in your first aid kit. Here are some of the most popular.

Rescue Remedy

A combination of five herbs which comfort and reassure. It is also excellent for depression and stress. Use at times of extreme shock or when introducing a new cat into the household (give some to the existing cat and take some yourself!) This amazing remedy can be bought at most chemists now.

Aloe Vera Gel

Can be applied topically to wounds or burns or taken internally for Bowel problems. It is excellent for treating skin problems such as psoriasis and Eczema and also stud tail! Apply liberally! The best Aloe Vera can be bought online. The health shops do tend to have dilute versions.

Chlorella

Only very small quantities can improve digestion, coat, growth and boost the immune system.Chlorella does not have an immediate effect but is ideal for long term maintenance and illnesses.

Chlorella is rich in chlorophyll and is said to purify the blood, cleansing it of toxins, combat anemia, rejuvinates and revitilises, stimulates the immune system, normalises blood pressure and combats bad odors.

5)Digestive disorders.

Slippery Elm powder.

This has been used in herbal remedies for over 100 years. It is a nutritious food that was originally made into a type of pudding for those who had weak stomachs. Slippery elm is soothing , eases digestion and works with the body to draw out the impurities.

A small amount added to the food can benefit any digestive upset.

Aloe Vera Gel.

A teaspoonful a day mixed in with the food can improve your cats digestion from within. Called the ‘Miracle Plant’, Aloe Vera has been used for centuries to treat various disorders. The abundance of vitamins and minerals in this juice (including the rare B12) makes this a vital supplement for vegetarians too.

Pumpkin

For upset bowels Some cats like it as is, but many people mix it with with a wet food. This can be bought in cans from health food shops or fresh from the supermarket.

6)Eye Infections

Callendula

Commonly known as marigold, the leaves can be boiled and applied to wounds or a clean extract used to bathe the eyes. Marigold has very good antibacterial properties.

Borage

Eliminates discomforts in the mouth (gum inflammation), throat and eyes.

7)Fatigue / Old age

Bee Pollen

Bee Pollen contains a broad spectrum of essential nutrients and is an ideal pick me up for the fatigued or old cat. It has all the B complex vitamins and also A,C,D,E and K, which together provide more nutrients per calorie than an other nutritional supplement.

8)Fleas

Garlic

For some reason they just cannot stand the taste (or the smell) and if added daily to your pets food it should prove unnecessary to use chemical flea treatments.

Louis Pasteur discovered that this had the power to eliminate the growth of harmful bacteria and today it has also been found that it can protect the body from free radicals and boosts the bodies immune system. Many breeders use this as a day to day supplement in food.

Available as raw, fresh garlic or tablet or capsule form.

9)Growth Promoter

Chlorella

This single-celled fresh water algae has been shown to stimulate growth and accelerate the healing process. It is ideal as a supplement in the food of under weight kittens and will also stimulate the immune system.

Chlorella can be found in some health shops (although not many) and on the web. It is generally available in capsule or powder form.

10)Hyperthyroidism

Royal Gelly

This enhances the bodies metabolism as it is rich in natural B complex vitamins.

Readily available from chemists and online it is in tablet or capsule form and can be simply added to the food.

11)Injuries and burns

Aloe Vera Gelly

Historically this has been used for the treatment of cuts and burns. It is excellent as a first aid treatment and helps to alleviate scaring.

Arnica

Prevents or alleviates bruising and swelling and is therefore good to use if a cat has any type of operation or injury, or even again after giving birth. It’s good for humans too to speed up recovery time after operations and apparently arnica cream is a good way.

For humans to get rid of love bites!!

12)Intestinal Parasites/worms

Garlic

Garlic has been used for centuries to treat worms and can be safely administered via food once a day for 15 days.

It is best used crushed but can be obtained in capsules which can be broken and poured on the food.

13)Liver and Kidney

Lycium

This originates in China where it is used as a traditional remedy for a variety of ailments. Rich in amino acids it nourishes the liver and kidneys. It also improves circulation and aids in hearing and vision problems.

14)Obesity

Garcinia Cambogia.

The fruit from the south of india tree – Garcinia Cambogia.

This contains a very special compound which reduces the body’s production of fats from carbohydrates so the animal burns existing fats and this aids in weight loss. It also acts as a natural appetite suppressant.

Available in capsule form usually which must be given in a little food just before the main meal.

15)Pregnancy and Birth Problems

Raspberry leaf Caulophyllum

For pregnancy and birth. Raspberry leaf is a herbal remedy and caulophyllum is a homeopathic remedy and they do similar things. They tone the muscles of the uterus to ensure that contractions are strong, and guard against uterine inertia, where contractions fade out before its all over. They are generally recommended for cats which have experienced problems giving birth.

16)Rheumatism

Dandelion

This is useful in a variety of illnesses but has shown beneficial signs in the treatment of Rheumatism. It has a cleansing effect in the blood system and stimulates the production of bile.

Dandelion is available in some health shops.

17)Shock

Rescue Remedy

One drop directly in the cats mouth will comfort and reassure.

See ‘Cure all & First Aid for more information.

18)Skin Problems

Aloe Vera Gelly

This is both soothing and healing. If applied directly to the skin it can be used to treat most skin conditions and its antibiotic properties are especially welcome.

19)Stud Tail

Aloe Vera Gelly

Applied daily on the area this will help to lift out any of the grease associated with stud tail.

Bee Propolis cream

The antibiotic properties of this cream will fight any infections normally associated with stud tail and stimulate the growth of new hair.

20)Travel Sickness

Cocculus

Treats nausea, travel sickness, dizziness and stress.

Available in tablet form to mix in with the food.