Cat - Is Your Cat Ready for Toilet Training? Here's 5 Ways You Can Tell

At the end of a long day, who wants to sift through a messy litter box? Certainly not me. Up until now, the litter-box has been a necessary evil, a small price to pay for our beloved companions. But not anymore. In fact, there's an underground alternative designed for those of us who are ready to kick the litter habit: toilet training your cat. Sounds complicated, right? Not at all. Although far from mainstream, cat toilet training is gaining momentum and cat owners across the country are beginning to embrace the trend. But before you toss that box in the trash, there's a few ways to tell if your cat is ready to take the leap into a litter-free lifestyle. Think Fluffy has what it takes? Read on. 1. Your cat is already litter-box trained. OK, I know what you're thinking: "Of course my cat knows how to use the litter-box" But the simple fact is, cats that already know how to use the litter-box can be reconditioned to use the toilet instead. That's because cat toilet training utilizes your cat's natural instincts to bury their waste to hide their scent from predators. During the training process your cat will learn to put its waste in water instead of in litter. Once your cat makes this transition toilet training becomes a breeze and - voila! Your cat is successfully potty trained! 2. Your cat is eager to please you. Does your cat love making you happy? Whether she leaves the occasional "gift" on your doorstep or offers a warm nuzzle while you're reading, cats who are eager to please are the purr-fect candidates for toilet training. After she learns that using the toilet pleases you, she'll be happy to oblige! 3. You have trained your cat to do something in the past. Does your cat come when you call them? Believe it or not, simple actions like responding to a voice command can help lay the groundwork for the toilet training process. After all, if your kitty already knows how to "follow the leader", toilet training will be a breeze. 4. Your cat is healthy. This one might seem like a no-brainer, but healthy cats have a much easier time jumping up onto their new throne. Illnesses like arthritis or urinary tract infections can affect their ability to learn how to use the toilet, so sick kitties should stick to the box. 5. You know your cat. Can you tell when your feline friend is having a rough day? If you're like many pet owners, you're probably very in tune with your cat's feelings. This unique bond works as a positive force during the toilet training process. How? Cats will use body language to tell you if they are comfortable with a particular training step. When you pick up on these signals, both of you can work together to achieve a relaxed training pace. You'll both feel satisfied when you work as a team! Want to read more? Check out www.citikitty.com to see a video of a toilet trained cat and read how to successfully toilet train your cat with a training kit. Rebecca Rescate is the creator of the CitiKitty Cat Toilet Training Kit. She has helped thousands of cat owners pursue their dream of a litter-free life with their beloved feline. Visit her site to find out more about CitiKitty - http://www.citikitty.com Article Source:http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rebecca_Rescate Cat - Burmese - The Facts Every Owner of this Cat Breed Should Know The modern Burmese breed has roots muddled in history. It is generally believed that Burmese are a man made breed descending from the crossbreeding of a Siamese and an ancient version of a pure Burmese (that later died out). This Burmese breed had almost died out until a breeder named Dr. J. Thompson brought one of these remaining cats, Wong Mau (who may have actually been a Tonkinese), to America in the 1930s because of his interest in Wong Mau's markings. The doctor wanted to study these markings and bred Wong Mau to a seal point Siamese. The resulting liter was the first Burmese kittens. Burmese cats tend to be of average height and weight and live approximately thirteen years. Their coats come in a variety of colors: brown (seal brown), blue (soft blue-gray with a silver sheen), chocolate (milk chocolate), lilac (dove gray with a pinkish cast), red (tangerine), cream, brown tortie (brown with shades of red), blue tortie (blue with shades of cream), chocolate tortie (chocolate with shades of red), and lilac tortie (lilac with shades of cream). The coats are shorthaired and tend to shed very little. Burmese enjoy the company of humans, make a good family pet, and adapt well to any environment. They get along with children and other family pets. Burmese are loyal to their human companions and will move with them from room to room of the house. They enjoy the affection they give and receive in this relationship. Burmese are lap cats and enjoy being pet and stroked. They are also very loving and accepting of strangers - a characteristic that is a plus for an indoor cat but quite dangerous if the cat is allowed to roam the outdoors. Burmese are quite trusting of everyone and everything and have no instinct to fight or defend itself. Adult Burmese are very nimble cats (despite their stocky looking build) but this may not be apparent when they are kittens. Burmese kittens, attempting new feats, tend to be clumsy. They grow into their agility and age gracefully. Burmese do have some health concerns. They are prone to cherry eye, and corneal dermoids (a surgically correctable attachment of skin or hair to the cornea). There is a website that has great information on Burmese and most other breeds of cats. It has details that pertain to a cat breeds health, grooming, living conditions, best food choices and more, the website is called: Dog And Cat Facts, and can be found at this url: http://www.dogandcatfacts.com By Robert W. Benjamin Copyright ? 2007 You may publish this article in your ezine, newsletter on your web site as long as it is reprinted in its entirety and without modification except for formatting needs or grammar corrections.

Cat - Burmese - The Facts Every Owner of this Cat Breed Should Know

Quality Cat Supplies available at Low Prices and Free Shipping! The modern Burmese breed has roots muddled in history. It is generally believed that Burmese are a man made breed descending from the crossbreeding of a Siamese and an ancient version of a pure Burmese (that later died out). This Burmese breed had almost died out until a breeder named Dr. J. Thompson brought one of these remaining cats, Wong Mau (who may have actually been a Tonkinese), to America in the 1930s because of his interest in Wong Mau's markings. The doctor wanted to study these markings and bred Wong Mau to a seal point Siamese. The resulting liter was the first Burmese kittens. Burmese cats tend to be of average height and weight and live approximately thirteen years. Their coats come in a variety of colors: brown (seal brown), blue (soft blue-gray with a silver sheen), chocolate (milk chocolate), lilac (dove gray with a pinkish cast), red (tangerine), cream, brown tortie (brown with shades of red), blue tortie (blue with shades of cream), chocolate tortie (chocolate with shades of red), and lilac tortie (lilac with shades of cream). The coats are shorthaired and tend to shed very little. Burmese enjoy the company of humans, make a good family pet, and adapt well to any environment. They get along with children and other family pets. Burmese are loyal to their human companions and will move with them from room to room of the house. They enjoy the affection they give and receive in this relationship. Burmese are lap cats and enjoy being pet and stroked. They are also very loving and accepting of strangers - a characteristic that is a plus for an indoor cat but quite dangerous if the cat is allowed to roam the outdoors. Burmese are quite trusting of everyone and everything and have no instinct to fight or defend itself. Adult Burmese are very nimble cats (despite their stocky looking build) but this may not be apparent when they are kittens. Burmese kittens, attempting new feats, tend to be clumsy. They grow into their agility and age gracefully. Burmese do have some health concerns. They are prone to cherry eye, and corneal dermoids (a surgically correctable attachment of skin or hair to the cornea). There is a website that has great information on Burmese and most other breeds of cats. It has details that pertain to a cat breeds health, grooming, living conditions, best food choices and more, the website is called: Dog And Cat Facts, and can be found at this url: http://www.dogandcatfacts.com By Robert W. Benjamin Copyright ? 2007 You may publish this article in your ezine, newsletter on your web site as long as it is reprinted in its entirety and without modification except for formatting needs or grammar corrections. Robert W. Benjamin has been in the software business on the internet for over 5 years, and has been producing low-cost software for the past 25+ years. He first released products on the AMIGA and C64 computer systems in the late 1970's-80's. Seasonal Vacation Spots http://www.seasonalvacationspots.com Article Source:http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_Benjamin Cat - Treat Your Cat To Some Homemade Toys Playing is a fun way to get some exercise, for both you and your cat. But you don't need to spend a fortune to give your cat a treat. You have most likely observed that your cat seems to get more enjoyment out of playing with the box a toy came in, rather than playing with the toy itself! Even large cardboard boxes are a source of enjoyment for your cat. Ideas for cardboard boxes: * Turn one upside down (so the opening is at the bottom.) Cut a small hole in one side, then put something like a catnip mouse inside the box and watch kitty try to grab the mouse. * Cut a hole at each end and turn the box upside down to make a tunnel for your cat to run through. * Scrunch up a few pieces of wrapping paper, throw them in an open box and watch the fun. Other ideas: Get your cat to help you out here. Take note of the things around the house that attracts him or her, and then think up some ways you can both interact with these things to create your own special game. For example: * Plastic rings from milk containers * Scrunched-up paper - the noisier, the better * A piece of newspaper tied to a long string * A large paper bag lying on its side (cut some holes in it for added interest) * Plastic drinking straws Have fun and let your imagination go wild - I bet you'll enjoy the treat just as much as your cat does!

Cat - Treat Your Cat To Some Homemade Toys

Quality Cat Supplies available at Low Prices and Free Shipping! Playing is a fun way to get some exercise, for both you and your cat. But you don't need to spend a fortune to give your cat a treat. You have most likely observed that your cat seems to get more enjoyment out of playing with the box a toy came in, rather than playing with the toy itself! Even large cardboard boxes are a source of enjoyment for your cat. Ideas for cardboard boxes: * Turn one upside down (so the opening is at the bottom.) Cut a small hole in one side, then put something like a catnip mouse inside the box and watch kitty try to grab the mouse. * Cut a hole at each end and turn the box upside down to make a tunnel for your cat to run through. * Scrunch up a few pieces of wrapping paper, throw them in an open box and watch the fun. Other ideas: Get your cat to help you out here. Take note of the things around the house that attracts him or her, and then think up some ways you can both interact with these things to create your own special game. For example: * Plastic rings from milk containers * Scrunched-up paper - the noisier, the better * A piece of newspaper tied to a long string * A large paper bag lying on its side (cut some holes in it for added interest) * Plastic drinking straws Have fun and let your imagination go wild - I bet you'll enjoy the treat just as much as your cat does! Lyn owns Cat and Dog Treats which helps people learn about Cat Treats and Dog Treats Article Source:http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lyn_Meyer Cat - Cat Health Care - What You Need to Know Before You Adopt Deciding to adopt a pet is a big decision, and one that should not be made after a nostalgic late night viewing of the AristoCats. When deciding to adopt a cat, make sure that you're aware of everything involved in pet ownership. Measuring your commitment level is the first step in the decision to adopt a cat. While very self-sufficient animals, they still need your care and loving attention every day. Be prepared for the veterinarian bills that will come with your cat. There are a series of initial and annual vaccines that the cat will need to keep them healthy. In the initial meet and greet with your cat's new doctor, make sure to include a conversation about spaying or neutering your cat. These types of surgeries are not as traumatic to kittens as they are to older cats, so don't put off the decision for too long. Scratching is a normal and healthy part of a cat's existence. Most veterinarians will only declaw a cat in exigent circumstances; with the right environment and a little training, your cat and your nice furniture can peacefully coexist without leaving the cat defenseless. You will need a trip to the pet store as soon as you've adopted your new cat. Check off one litter box, a bag of cat litter, a poop scoop, food and water dishes, and a few cat toys to keep them occupied. Quality cat food formulated for the age of the cat will supply them with all of the nutrients they need and prevent health problems down the line. Keep in mind that cats are as finicky about smell as most people are when it comes to litter boxes. While you begin the task of training your cat to use the litter box, the most important step will be keeping it clean. If you don't like the litter box smell, you can count on your cat not liking it either! Cats normally like a bit of privacy while doing their business, so make sure you locate the litter box in a convenient spot that still affords them their dignity. A cat can be a great addition to any family and home, as long as the home and family are ready for the cat. Feeding and caring for any pet is a rewarding, life-long commitment.

Cat - Cat Health Care - What You Need to Know Before You Adopt

Save 5% on orders over $75 at Only Natural Pet Store! Use coupon code CJ75. Deciding to adopt a pet is a big decision, and one that should not be made after a nostalgic late night viewing of the AristoCats. When deciding to adopt a cat, make sure that you're aware of everything involved in pet ownership. Measuring your commitment level is the first step in the decision to adopt a cat. While very self-sufficient animals, they still need your care and loving attention every day. Be prepared for the veterinarian bills that will come with your cat. There are a series of initial and annual vaccines that the cat will need to keep them healthy. In the initial meet and greet with your cat's new doctor, make sure to include a conversation about spaying or neutering your cat. These types of surgeries are not as traumatic to kittens as they are to older cats, so don't put off the decision for too long. Scratching is a normal and healthy part of a cat's existence. Most veterinarians will only declaw a cat in exigent circumstances; with the right environment and a little training, your cat and your nice furniture can peacefully coexist without leaving the cat defenseless. You will need a trip to the pet store as soon as you've adopted your new cat. Check off one litter box, a bag of cat litter, a poop scoop, food and water dishes, and a few cat toys to keep them occupied. Quality cat food formulated for the age of the cat will supply them with all of the nutrients they need and prevent health problems down the line. Keep in mind that cats are as finicky about smell as most people are when it comes to litter boxes. While you begin the task of training your cat to use the litter box, the most important step will be keeping it clean. If you don't like the litter box smell, you can count on your cat not liking it either! Cats normally like a bit of privacy while doing their business, so make sure you locate the litter box in a convenient spot that still affords them their dignity. A cat can be a great addition to any family and home, as long as the home and family are ready for the cat. Feeding and caring for any pet is a rewarding, life-long commitment. Jessica Lorber helps pet owners make their pets a part of their family. You can find more of her tips for cat health care and her personal recommendations for pet supplies at MyOtherKids.com Article Source:http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jessica_Lorber Cat - Teach Cats to Understand English The cat has been living close to humans from around 3,500 and 8,000 years. There are dozens of breeds, and they exist in an assortment of different colors and temperaments. They are expert predators. Since my cats live indoors they like to hunt bugs, each other and me. Many are the time I've almost stepped on them because they shoot out from hiding, right into my path. I believe they reckon this as an attack. Cats are intelligent, and some can be taught or learn by themselves to operate simple devices such as lever-handled doors. I've even seen video's of cats flushing toilets and turning on tap water. Cats can also be taught to learn human words and phrases. For instance, my two boys practically fly to the sliding glass door when I say the word "bird." They know exactly what I'm saying. When I say "let's get some dinner," they immediately run to their food bowls. Another example is "lie down." I taught my cat, Max, this phrase because he loves to jump up on the sofa and cuddle with me, however he can't find that "just right" spot. He turns and turns and "makes biscuits" (a cute phrase that describes the kneading behavior they used to do to as kittens to stimulate milk in their mother). Now I say "lie down" and he does so right away. All one needs to do is keep repeating the word or phrase and associate it with an object or your own behavior. For instance the word "bird." Every time they saw a bird on the balcony they would chatter at it as cats do. I would then continually say the word "bird". Now I can tell them when I see a bird on the balcony and they come running. Another example is when I come in the door. They are always waiting for me right at the threshold so it's hard for me and what ever I'm carrying to get in the door without stepping on them. I started saying "back, back, back, while gently pushing them back. Now when I say it they just turn around and walk into the living room away from the front door. When I can't find one of them I just say "kitty, kitty, kitty" and they both come running because they know it means something good. When I say that, they always get a treat and I don't have to go looking in every nook and cranny to find them. To teach max to lie down, all I did was gently push down on his back and say the words and he now does it on his own when I say them. So far Harry and Max know 12 words/phrases and I intend to keep on teaching them. The only thing is if we're so smart, how come we can't learn what they're saying?