Deodorize Cat Litter With Pine Pellets

By Ned Dagostino

As long as there are cat owners and cats, you will find products to help you get rid of that mess we call cat litter! Clay has always been the traditional favorite for the cat box, simply because it is easily available, and more importantly, because Mr. Tibbs loves it! There is just one problem - the odor! If you maintain a litter box for your cat, I don't need to explain how overpowering the odor is. If you're sick and tired of the odor then here's good news - pine cat litter. That's right, the litter is made from natural pine wood, and this masks the odor we all know so well!

The shelf price of this new variety of cat litter is twice that of traditional varieties of cat litter. But the new product proves to be cost effective since it absorbs twice the amount of moisture compared to the ordinary variety. So there is really no increase in your monthly expenditure on this account.

The pine cat litter is facing a severe acceptance problem - from Mr. Tibbs himself! Most cats find the pellets strange and unnatural. The pellets are not as easy on the cat's feet as the other litters are. So cats shy away from using the pine pellet litter.

The work-around for this particular problem is to get the cat using the pine pellets gradually. In the beginning put in a handful of pine litter and make up the usual quantity with the normal stuff. Gradually increase the amount of pine litter and correspondingly reduce the amount of normal litter. Finally you'll be using all pine litter. If your cat still does not go for it then that's that! You'll have to put with the odor. Better that than have your cat not use the box at all!

If you do want to use pine cat litter there is another way. Some owners use 90% pine cat litter to lay the box. The top 10% is filled up with ordinary clumping litter. Faced with his favorite litter, your cat has no objection now. And you, of course, are rid of that smell!

Hardly have we worked our way around problem #1, than problem #2 crops up. It appears that pine fragrance is not very popular with cats. Now that's something that we can't do anything about. After all you're using pine cat litter solely for its fragrance, and there's your cat wrinkling up its nose at the very idea! That apart, pine cat litter is completely safe for your cat. All toxic substances have been removed from the cat litter.

Pine cat litter can be composted and used as garden manure. The solid waste must be removed before composting the litter. So pine cat litter can claim to be environment-aware and environment-friendly.

Whether pine cat litter makes its way into your house on a permanent basis depends entirely on your cat! If your cat converts to pine then you're home free, to a home free from that awful stench! On the other hand, if your cat gives pine cat litter a paws down, then you'll just have to grin and bear it!

About the Author:

There are many other cat litter choices. You can also look into silica, flushable, and more. But the most effective way to handle the mess is by buying an automatic cat litter box. Learn more at www.CatLitterBoxesPlus.com. You'll also discover how to remove cat odor should any accidents occur.

Is There A Painless Technique To Use To Treat Ear Mites Without Going To The Vet?

By Wendell Ruben

Many times a trip to the vet is not the only answer when trying to treat ear mites. These ugly parasites can create severe damage to your pet's ear if left alone. A home remedy for getting rid of these parasites is mineral oil.

These parasites cause your cat or dog to get reddened, inflamed or swollen ears. They can infect the middle ear, which throws off their balance. They may start to walk in circle or may not be able to walk at all. Pets with this condition will scratch their ears and shake their heads a lot as if trying to shake the bugs out.

You must first confirm that your dog or cat has ear mites. If there are black spots in the ear or if they are acting sluggish and feverish there is a good chance they have them. The black spots are blood and pus caused by the parasites. If you determine it is ear mites, then applying mineral oil to the infected ears will kill them.

Mineral oil is good for your pet's ears because it will loosen earwax and the blood and puss that have built up because of the parasites. This will clear the plugged ear and help them regain their balance. The oil also smothers mites. The easiest way to apply the mineral oil is with an eyedropper.

After applying the mineral oil, massage it in to help spread the oil to loosen the earwax and kill the parasites. Proceed massaging by gently grasping the ear with your thumb inside and your fingers on the outside. Apply pressure slightly to the inside, being careful not to scratch the ear with your nail or irritate the inner ear. Place the thumb down as far as it will naturally go and rub until the oil is spread all over the inside ear canal.

After you are done massaging, let your pet shake out the dirt and oil from the ear. This is a good outdoor procedure, to protect your carpet and furniture from the oil. Once your pet has shaken out all the loose stuff, you can wipe out any residue left with a cotton ball. Do not use a Q-tip in case you push it too far down into the ear causing damage.

If it appears they have returned you can repeat the process. If after a week, they continue to be a problem you should probably take your animal to the vet. They may have to give you a prescription to get rid of the parasites. The mineral oil usually is the best way to treat ear mites.

About the Author:

Find more information and details about the most effective treatment for ear mites available today! You can treat ear mites quickly and easily when you visit today!

Understanding Elderly Cat Problems

By Maria Brooks

You should always make sure you monitor your cat's behavior, habits, and appearance as they become older to ensure that they are not coming down with one of the common diseases in geriatric cats. This can be a troubling, and stressful time for both you, and your cat. Knowing what to look for in case of elderly cat problems may help you save their lives in the long run.

Keep a close eye on your cat's behavior, appearance, and habits. It is not uncommon for a cat to live to seventeen years of age or older, as long as they have a well balanced diet and a happy lifestyle. Make sure to find out how to spot the common problems associated with aging in cats so you're not left in the dark.

Pay attention to your cat's weight since this is a first sign that comes about when your cat might have a health problem. This can be either gaining, or losing weight' This is then followed by a change in appetite, change in the consistency of urination and fecal matter, or efforts needed to do either, and water consumption may change as well. You might want to seek information on what you're cat might have, and the measures needed to take in order to correct it.

A few health problems found in older cats are diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, dental disease, and hyperthyroidism. Of all of these the most common to be found in an older cat is diabetes since many cats have poor eating habits as they age. On top of all the natural remedies that can be given to your pet, you also want to make sure that TLC is mixed in as well.

Dental disease can become common since it proves to be difficult to brush their teeth two to three times daily. They will need to have teeth work over time, and sometimes the damage can be done when the infection goes into the gums. Hyperthyroidism is a little less common, but nevertheless it is there. This is because the glands start to become over active without the proper exercise, and cause a large amount of undesirable symptoms.

If you have a cat, and you want to make sure it lives to its full potential, then you should make sure it is well taken care of with a balanced diet, exercise, and all the love an animal can ask for. This will also reduce the risks of disease and complications as your cat matures in age.

About the Author:

Help your cat live a longer, healthier life. Explore natural cures for elderly cat problems. Visit http://www.homeopathiccat.com for more information.

Cat Grooming: Procedures for Brushing Your Feline

By Judy Reynolds

The moment her kittens are given birth to, the mother cat licks them to help them begin breathing. This is the kitten's first exposure to cat grooming. It can be natural for a cat to groom itself, which is one thing we view everyday. Cats maintain their very own grooming requirements, but there are several good reasons why you should also groom your cat.

Grooming your cat aids you to set up a connection among you and your pet. For those who start grooming your cat as a kitten, the two of you will discover the experience a very pleasurable and fulfilling one.

Brushing is the most frequent cat grooming technique. It helps in avoiding hairballs and reduces the amount of cat fur in your home. Hairballs accumulate in the cat's digestive tract. Cats normally throw up or pass through hairballs, but occasionally the fur can harden and get stuck in the cat's intestines. This could demand a visit to the veterinarian.

A longhaired cat or semi-longhaired cat must be groomed everyday to prevent matted fur. Short-haired cats may be brushed a few times a week, depending on your cat.

Begin grooming your cat while they are younger so they will get used to it. Brushing makes your cat pleased and gives you an opportunity to check on the cat's overall health. Your initial resources for cat grooming are your hands. Stroke the kitten with your hand to remove extra cat fur. Stroking could also give the cat's fur a good gloss.

Cat grooming tools and brushes are available online and at local pet stores. You will find soft rubber-bristled brushes, wide toothed metal combs, and cat grooming gloves. Find out what works best for you.

Choose a quiet, relaxed time to groom your cat. You can place an old towel on your lap and settle your cat on it to start brushing him. Talk in a calm, soothing voice to your cat while grooming him. It should be a pleasant experience for the two of you.

Start brushing from his head and work your way down to the tail. Most cats like their head, neck and sides to be brushed. Some cats do not like having their backs brushed. Find a way to get under the belly, since many cats do not want their delicate belly skins to be brushed.

Use nice, long strokes when brushing your cat, and keep away from going in the other direction of the coat. If he won't allow you to complete in one sitting, do not force it. Finish grooming him another time.

Start brushing your cat or kitten as early as possible. By getting your cat accustomed to it, grooming will become an experience that the two of you will enjoy.

About the Author:

Discover where to purchase a cat grooming bag and cat grooming supplies by visiting our website right now.

Fun and Affordable Toys For Your Cats

By Max Raines

The choice of toys available for your cat these days is vast, and is a booming market. We all want to treat our kitty's from time to time, but is it really worth and necessary to spend so much money on these?

A cat gets bored very easily and if it isn't getting attention it starts to be naughty, not unlike a young child. We have a few hints for cat toys that they won't lose interest in after an hour.

If you are having problems with your cat trying to climb your curtain and running the fabric, get your kitty a cat tower. Your cat will love this and you can get them in all different heights and styles so your cat will be amused for hours.

Most cats, when they catch small prey like a mouse, will simply play with it until it dies. Stuffed mice are an ideal toy as it replicates nature. You can buy these in packs of 3 or 12, and the most popular is made of leather and has fur and a long tail.

We've all come done in the mornings to discover that our precious pussy has left a trail of destruction. You really need your cat to sleep through the night like you do, so introducing a catnip toy before you go to bed will give your cat a burst of energy which is quickly spent and he will sleep through the night too.

What the manufacturers of catnip toys don't tell you is that giving them to your cat every day can have adverse effects on their moods and overall behavior. Use these toys sparingly so a dependency doesn't develop.

If you have a pile of stuffed toys that your children don't care bout anymore, don't put them in the trash, give them, one a time, to your cat. The antics of these frisky felines trying to prove their superiority over a large toy is absolutely hysterical.

By giving your cat the opportunity to play with these toys, he will have a lot of fun.

About the Author:

Refer to additional tips by this writer dealing with items like bar stool and swivel bar stools.

Cat Trees: A Way To Keep Your Cat Happy Physically And Mentally by Carol Navagato If you own a cat then it stands to reason that you will want to keep them mentally stable and physically fit which can easily be achieved by buying cat trees that offer cats something out of the ordinary. In fact, these trees ensure that the cats are not allowed to become bored by being indoors for long periods of time. When you keep your cat inside the home you will probably not have anything in the home that will help to keep the cat amused. This can lead to insufficient mental motivation and it also means the cat won't have anything which will keep them active physically though a tree for a cat offers both mental motivation and a chance to stay physically active. Cat trees can help to make a cat satisfy their curiosity and in addition they also provide an opportunity for the cat to climb up to various levels and with some areas that are hidden the cat can find something interesting to do. They can also climb and also chase as well as scratch as much as they like. It is the responsibility of the cat owner to ensure that their pets get a proper ambiance which helps the pat get plenty of exercise. Cats are not like humans and so are never in need of finding something to motivate themselves to do some exercises. In fact, they only need the right kind of surroundings and conditions which a cat tree as well as cat condo is able to provide very suitably. Most of the time, a cat will be left to themselves, especially when their owners go to work or have left the home for other reasons. Left to their own devices cats that have nothing to do will soon become lonely and bored and this can cause their psyche to be adversely affected. It is not a good idea to allow such a thing to occur and so it is imperative that the cat be provided the proper kind of environment. You can either keep more cats to keep them occupied or you can use a tree for the cat to climb and in this way help them remain active physically and mentally. A tree for your cat helps to give your cat a chance to do regular exercising and this in turn means that your cat will benefit in a number of ways. For example, the cat who exercises regularly will not become obese which in turn helps to prolong their lifespan. In addition, their coats will turn shinier and their eyes will shine more brightly ' and these two signs indicate that your cat is in good physical and mental health. Even if you own more than just a single cat you can avoid having to spend a lot of money on additional cat trees because you only need to shop for a tree for your cat that is large enough to accommodate several cats so that each of them can frolic and play on the tree simultaneously. With hiding areas on a cat's tree your cat will get a better opportunity to have more fun. It also helps to pick a tree that has nap spots and scratching posts and it also pays to provide the cat with toys that they can chase up as well as down. Cat's trees are available in sizes and different shapes and so finding a suitable one for your cat will not be difficult. Cat tree furniture specifically a cat scratching tree can be used to help to make your cat mentally more stable and in addition it helps the cat get some physical activity that will amuse them and which helps to relieve the tedium of being trapped indoors for extended periods of time.

FKS or Fading Kitten Syndrome: The Signs and Preventions of FKS

By Sam Kelley

Fading Kitten Syndrome (FKS) is similar to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) in humans and may be blamed when kittens under 12 weeks of age fail to thrive and grow. Like SIDS, FKS is a fatal "mystery illness" in which the exact cause of death is often not known. In general, FKS affects kittens born to weak mothers or born into unhealthy surroundings.

Prevention of FKS starts before the kittens are even born. Properly caring for the mother cat while she is pregnant will give the kittens the healthiest start in life. make sure the mother is eating a healthy and nutritious diet, as what she eats is passed on to the baby kittens. A mother cat that is healthy and doesn't have obesity or other illnesses will have the healthiest kittens.

Keep your eyes out for birth defects. A thorough examination should spot obvious signs of defects. However some birth defects remain unnoticed until the kitten gets sick or even dies. Sometimes a kitten can be injured during a long and stressful birth. A healthy mother cat may not need your assistance, but keep an eye on her during birthing ready to step in if you are needed. Sometimes a mother can cannibalize her kittens so keep an close watch.

After birth the risks are not over for the kittens. Very rarely the kitten and mother cat has a different blood type and this can result in the kitten getting very sick, there is no known cure. If this should happen all other kittens must be taken from the mother cat and raised by hand. More often than different blood types is one kitten being bullied away from the food source (their mother). This means he will not be able to get enough nutrients to grow and develop properly. Sometimes a mother even rejects her own babies, a responsible owner will then orphan-raise the kittens.

Not all causes of Fading Kitten Syndrome are related specifically to pregnancy and birth. Environmental causes also play a part. Newborn kittens cannot keep themselves warm and rely on their mother to stay warm. Hypothermia, dehydration, and environmental diseases related to parasites, bacteria, and viruses are likely to cause FKS.

It is not possible in some cases however, and there will always be some fatalities. Make sure the mother cat eats well during pregnancy and weaning. Watch for birth defects, signs of weakness or bacterial infections. If the mother cat isn't doing her job, step in and care for the kittens.

Being armed with this knowledge about FKS you will be better equipped to handle preventing it and treating it. The earlier Fading Kitten Syndrome is detected the greater chances for survival. Watch the factors during pregnancy, through the birth and right up to weaning when FKS is most likely to strike.

About the Author:

Want to find out more about fading kitten syndrome, then visit Sam Kelley's site and claim your FREE Taking Care of Kittens handbook.