Cat Eye Infections - How to Treat and Prevent Common Cat Eye Care Problems

Feline conjunctivitis is a cat eye infection is characterized by an inflamed pink membrane that lines the inner eyelid and the white part of the eye. Oftentimes conjunctivitis occurs only in one eye rather than both. In this article you'll learn how to recognize and treat cat eye infections without costly prescriptions or antibiotics.

If your cat or kitten has conjunctivitis it is an eye infection that can occur intermittently for a few months to several years. It may or may not occur in conjunction with other eye problems. Sometimes feline conjunctivitis also presents with a cornea erosion or ulcer; corneal inflammation, called Keratitis; or intraocular inflammation, called uveitis. These other cat eye infections are often instigated by Feline Herpesvirus-1.

If your cat or kitten has conjunctivitis it is an eye infection that can occur intermittently for a few months to several years. It may or may not occur in conjunction with other eye problems. Sometimes feline conjunctivitis also presents with a cornea erosion or ulcer; corneal inflammation, called Keratitis; or intraocular inflammation, called uveitis. These other cat eye infections are often instigated by Feline Herpesvirus-1.

A conjunctivitis cat eye infection is most often caused by Feline Herpesvirus-1, Feline Chlamydia or Feline Mycoplasma. One, two or all three of these organisms probably caused your cat's eye problem.

What are the Signs of Cat Eye Infections?

1. Occasional or continual squinting - your kitty looks sort of like Popeye. If her squinting is severe, it may indicate a corneal ulcer or erosion.

2. Watery or mucous-like discharge that's clear, yellow, gray, or a rusty dark red color that resembles blood - but it's not blood.

3. The pink membrane lining, or conjunctiva, that surrounds her eye is red and possibly swollen.

4. The cornea, the clear dome over her eye, may be cloudy; this can signify a cat eye infection involving a corneal ulcer or erosion.

5. The iris, the colored part of her eye, may appear duller than usual or be an entirely different color; this can signal an infection involving uveitis.

6. One, several or all of these cat eye infection signs may be present. They may be present in one or both eyes.

7. Sometimes infections are accompanied by frequent sneezing and possibly an upper respiratory tract infection.

How Do Veterinarians Treat Cat Eye Infections?

Cat eye infections caused by Feline Chlamydia and Feline Mycoplasma can be treated with topical antibiotics. Feline Mycoplasma-induced infections respond very well. But Feline Chlamydia cat eye infections may recur. Sometimes topical antiviral medicines may also be prescribed.

FHV-1 cat eye infections are stubborn little boogers to treat. They don't respond at all to topical antibiotics.

Nearly every cat in the world has FHV-1; they are exposed to the virus when they're kittens. This virus lies dormant in a cat's body for its entire life; it can flare up to cause a cat eye infection at any time. The deciding factor in whether FHV-1 flares up is stress. Although your cat isn't a briefcase-toting stock broker on Wall Street, she can still experience stress! Stress suppresses the immune system.

Some kitties may never experience an infection. Other kitties may go for years between each cat eye infection, and yet other kitties may experience frequent flare-ups. Without proper treatment, your kitty would experience long-term discomfort and pain.

FHV-1 conjunctivitis and keratitis that cause infections cannot be cured-but they can be controlled.

How to Control Cat Eye Infections

Holistic vets and cat owners are finding great success in using homeopathic remedies made of natural substances. These eye tonics are a combination of burdock, rosemary, meadowsweet and Chelidonium majus. Feline conjunctivitis is often the result of a weakened immune system and may occur along side other illnesses such as respiratory infections. Your cat may need some immune boosting supplements to help her body naturally fight off infectious agents - without the side effects of antibiotic therapy.

About The Author:

Find a non-prescription treatment that is proven safe and effective for treating cat eye infections. Kate Rieger is partnered with the Kentucky SNIP clinic where they provide affordable, natural alternatives for treating your pet. Visit Kate's site today to find more options for treating your best 4-legged friend naturally at http://www.Coolest-Cat-Care.com/CatEyeCareDeals

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Cat Urinary Infection - How to Deal With Cat Urinary Problems

Is your cat having urinary issues? Cats are like humans. They could experience urinary problems, too. Cat urinary problems can be a tough issue to deal with not only because cat urine is stinky and irritating to the nose, but also because of the damage it could cause to your furniture, not to mention the amount of cleaning you have to do to get rid of your cat's residue. This "bad behavior" of the cat, though, should not be dealt with by punishment. Instead, it should be given proper medical attention.

Cats are very sensitive animals and a slight inconvenience could cause them not to use the litter box anymore. Cats may associate the pain or the inconvenience they feel while urinating with the litter box and therefore, start to pee outside it. Although this may be caused by a behavioral problem in some cats, this may also be a sign of cat urinary infection.

Cat urinary infection causes discomfort and extreme pain to cats. If you have experienced urinary tract infection, you may know how painful it is when the symptoms of the disease attack. The inconvenience that UTI causes to humans is the same in cats, so you may understand why cats would begin to have urinary issues when they have this disease.

To resolve the problem, it is important to get down to the bottom of the issue. The first thing to do is to look for symptoms such as a foul smell in the cat's urine, blood in the urine, frequent licking of the genitals, crying or constant meowing in the litter box, and straining to urinate but not producing any urine or producing only a little amount of it. Any of these symptoms may signal cat urinary infection. Worst, in the instance that a cat fails to produce urine, the cat may be suffering from urinary tract blockage, a condition that is highly dangerous for the cat. It is imperative that when you notice any of these signs you immediately call the attention of a veterinarian.

To diagnose the condition of your cat, the veterinarian may have to collect urine samples from your cat. To do this, he may perform a cystocentesis, a procedure where a needle is inserted through the abdomen and into the bladder. When urine samples have been collected, urinalysis may then be performed to determine the cause of the cat's urinary problems. Depending on the result of the urinalysis, the veterinarian may perform the appropriate procedure to alleviate the suffering of the cat. In cases of infection, the vet may prescribe antibiotics to suppress the growth of the infection. In cases where the tests show crystals and blockage in the cat's ureter, the cat may undergo surgery and other medical procedure.

Once the cat has been treated, it may already be brought home and be able to use the litter box again without any problem. However, follow-up check-up should be done to ensure the cat is recuperating well from the disease. The owner may also prevent the recurrence of the disorder by giving the cat homeopathic remedy.

Indeed, cat urinary infection could cause so much head-ache to a cat owner. But it can be prevented by being wary of the symptoms and taking immediate action when such symptoms appear.

Melissa Simmonds is a lover of cats. She owns a number of cats herself and has looked into various sources of information about cat urinary infection. For more information, visit the most comprehensive cat urinary problems resource online.

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Raw Food Diet For Cat and Kittens - Taking This One Step Prevents Cat Illness

There is increasing evidence accepted by holistic and traditional veterinarians that turning to a raw food diet for cat and kittens reduces the likelihood of many of today's common cat health problems. Its no secret that our cats are obese, have bladder problems or develop kidney disease or diabetes. Its looking like the same rules that apply to humans apply to cats - high carbohydrate, low protein diets and poor exercise habits lead to disease. The good news is that the number one step holistic vets recommend is that you switch your pet to a raw food diet for cat program.

Here's a short list of disorders that are fed by a low protein, high carbohydrate diet:

1. Dental disease
2. Bladder stones and Feline Urinary Tract Infection
3. Obesity
4. Diabetes
5. Kidney disease
6. Inflammatory Bowel Syndrome

Read the hot topics in Cat Fancy and Catwatch and you'll find at least two articles, if not more, reporting on the increase in cat sicknesses like feline urinary tract infection, diabetes and the rest. What do most of our house cats have in common? What they eat.

Now for the full the scoop on a raw food diet for cat and kitten...

Cats are dependent on a meat protein diet. Since World War II we've been fooled into believing that the commercially prepared dry or canned cat foods are the greatest invention since cat litter. These cat food products did not exist prior to the 1940's. They were developed during this wartime economic period because it was cheaper to feed our pets corn than it was to keep them on a raw diet for cat, kitten or dog. As a nation, we started moving towards a more urbanized lifestyle and we lost touch with our meat sources in our backyard. For the past few decades we've been loading up our grocery carts with Mighty Bad For Dog and Kitty food.

Cats and kittens require meat products. They can not convert vegetable proteins into the nutritionally equivalent minerals and amino acids that meat provides them. When was the last time you noticed your cat hanging from a corn stalk chomping through a cob of corn? Try this...

Let your cat wander through a corn field and I be he returns with a rabbit, mouse or bird - meat stuff - no corn. That's the natural approach.

A simple holistic cat health care solution.

You can make this change to a raw food diet for cat successful. Yes, it will require more work on your part. You will need to find a source of fresh rabbit, chicken or beef - those are in order of preference. Rabbit has the most nutritional benefit to your cat.

Don't go overboard when you start your raw food diet for cat program. Keep the quantities you purchase minimal so that you aren't freezing a load of meat. Freezing causes meat to breakdown and loose nutritional value. When you do freeze your raw rabbit, chicken or beef, package it in chunks. Don't slice all the meat up before you freeze it. Slice it as you prep for a new batch.

To further arm your cat from problems associated with illnesses like feline urinary tract infection and bladder stones or diseases like diabetes, you may opt to give your cat a little boost. Help your cat rid himself of bad toxins and impurities that years of commercial cat food poured into him. Add a homeopathic remedy that is proven to help pets purge toxins.

Don't shy away from including natural remedies in your raw food diet for cat or kitten diet. Long before anyone knew anything about diabetes, cancer or urinary tract infections our ancestors used herbs and nature to treat themselves and their animals. The Romans revered cats because cats kept the snakes and rodents under control - hmm, a natural raw food diet for cat and kittens way back then...

About The Author:Kate Rieger is partnered with the Kentucky S.N.I.P clinic where they provide affordable spay/neuter services to pet owners. She also shows pet owners how using natural alternatives for pet care can reduce vet bills and keep pets out of the sick room. Visit her today to learn more about treating a feline urinary tract infection and naturalize your cat health care today at http://www.Pet-Natural-Remedies.com.

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Causes of Blood in Cat Urine

Some reasons for blood in cat urine can be from the following causes:

• One of the most common reasons for cat urine with blood is a urinary tract infection. This type of infection could be in the bladder, or urethra or kidneys. This requires immediate veterinarian care so the kidneys are not damaged further.

• Another cause of blood in cat urine could be kidney disease which is serious. Symptoms are similar to urinary tract infections and can vary from and include; increased urination, urinating less than usual, thirst, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures or no appetite.

• Urinary stones sometimes form in the urinary tract which can scrape the urethra causing blood in cat urine. Causes of stones can be mineral crystals in the urine, bacteria, diseases, some medications, pH imbalance of urine.

• Has your cat eaten something harmful such as poison? Rat or mouse poison causes internal bleeding and dehydration which can cause cat urine with blood.

• Blood in cat urine needs to be differentiated from blood in urine due to a female cat in estrus stage. When the cat comes into heat the urine may become reddish and resemble blood mixed with urine. This is normal and nothing to be concerned with.

The urinary tract is an amazing system which removes waste, controls fluid and mineral levels. To keep your cat in good shape, once they no longer have symptoms, start a routine of alternative supplements which can help support your cat's urinary tract so it stays on balance making them less prone to infections.

Rebecca Shelly has been studying alternative health conditions for pets for many years. She is a regular contributor to http://www.pet-natural-cures.com a site discussing some of the most promising natural treatments for pet health on the market today. If you're looking for an alternative to harsh medications for your pet, visit the site to learn more.

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Sick Cat Symptoms - Recognize the Signs of a Sick Cat

To many peoples pets are part of the family. It's never fun when a family member isn't feeling well. How can you tell if your cat is sick? You don't need to be a doctor to recognize the common symptoms. Cats may have some of the same symptoms as humans when they aren't feeling well. Some of these common symptoms include:

Cough: Just like humans, cats also cough. An occasional cough is normal, however if it persists for more then a week you may want to get it checked out.

Loss of weight: Being sick will affect your cat's appetite. This might cause unexpected weight loss. If your cat starts to loose a lot of weight quickly, take him to the doctor right away.

Loss of energy: Sick cats are generally lethargic. If you notice your cat not playing as much as it used to or sleeping more then normal, you may have a sick cat on your hands.

Fever: Does your cat feel warm? Is it constantly shivering? It may have a fever which is a sure sign its sick.

The severity of all these symptoms may vary to mild to extremely severe. It they get too bad you should take your cat to the vet. He'll be able to determine if medication is needed. In some cases, it may be a sign of a more serious problem such as disease.

It's always a good idea to use some good old fashion "preventable medicine". By making sure your cat has all of its shots you'll be able to lessen the chances of serious illness.

Don't wait till it's too late. You need to read: Cat Care Symptoms as soon as possible. This is an excellent article that will tell you all you need to know about taking care of your cat, so it doesn't get seriously ill. http://www.easycatcaretips.com is dedicated to helping people take care of their cats.

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7 Symptoms of Cat Urinary Tract Infection and What You Can Do About It

Ever wondered how to spot early cat urinary tract infection symptoms? Cat urinary problems are known as silent killers because cats have a high tolerance for pain and often don't even show that they have a problem until it's too late. It pays off to be able to detect the symptoms of infection so you can spot the condition early and treat it at home before it spirals out of control. Here are 7 symptoms to look out for.

1. Is your cat urinating more or less frequently than usual? A change in urination patterns is often one of the earliest symptoms. It helps to know how your cat normally behaves in order to spot a change in urination patterns.

2. Common urinary tract infection symptoms include straining to urinate. If your cat tries to urinate often and only drops of urine come out at a time, it is likely that he is suffering from a UTI.

3. Other cat urinary symptoms include foul-smelling urine. If the urine looks cloudy and smells bad, you can suspect that UTI is the cause.

4. Is your cat urinating outside of his or her litter box? If you notice it urinating in strange places such as the kitchen sink, UTI may be the cause. Because UTIs are painful, your cat probably associates the litter box with the pain and tries to avoid it at all costs.

5. Is your cat grooming his or her genitals often? Frequent grooming of the genitals could mean that it is suffering from swollen, painful genitals from a urinary infection. Bacterial infections will cause its genitals to get inflamed. You should be especially suspicious if your cat is crying while grooming as if he or she were in pain.

6. Surefire cat urinary tract infection symptoms include urine in the blood. Get it to urinate on a light-colored surface if you suspect UTI. If you see traces of blood, take it to the vet as soon as possible.

7. Cat urinary symptoms that you should be concerned about include fever and a swollen, tender abdomen. Furthermore, if your cat is acting lethargic, it's a sign that it may be in the late stages of UTI. Get your cat treated as soon as you can.

So there you have it. These are common cat urinary tract infection symptoms that you should look out for. If you notice any of them, make sure to give your cat a homeopathic remedy. Homeopathic remedies are very helpful in healing infections and preventing recurrence. They will help your cat maintain a healthy bladder, urinary tract, and strong immune system. Remember to keep these symptoms in mind and if you spot even one of them, give your cat a homeopathic remedy. Better yet, give your cat a homeopathic remedy to prevent them occurring altogether.

Mark Lunardi is a pet health enthusiast who has been researching natural remedies to promote pets health. To learn more about his researches, visit his website at http://www.pet-uti-treatments.com

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Blood in Cat Urine - Ideas For Helping Your Cat

Blood in cat urine can be caused by many different things. Veterinarians will tell you that cat urine with blood in it can either be "gross", meaning you can see it with the naked eye, or it may be microscopic, meaning you cannot see it except under a microscope. The medical name for the presence of blood in cat urine is hematuria.

Causes of Blood in Cat Urine

As mentioned above, there can be many reasons for hematuria in your pet. Some of them include:

* Various types of urinary tract infections

* Bladder infections

* Vaginitis in females

* Some forms of urinary cancer

* Urinary tract stones

* Poisoning (especially from rat poison products)

* Accidents or injury

As you can see, cat urine with blood in it can be caused by some very serious conditions, all of which need to be treated by a professionally qualified veterinarian. In some cases, blood in cat urine can indicate a life-threatening condition, and getting your pet to the vet quickly can save its life.

Other Symptoms Associated with Blood in Cat Urine

In addition to seeing cat urine with blood discharges, you may also notice some other signs and symptoms. For instance, you may notice your pet is experiencing pain when urinating. You may also notice that your pet has become weak or is unable to move. There may be pain in the abdominal area, and you may also notice that your pet urinates more often than usual. All of these, along with cat urine with blood in it, are signs of a problem.

Treatment of Blood in Cat urine

Treatment for cat urine with blood depends on the cause. Your vet may need to do several tests to rule out possible causes. This might include anything from urine test to X-rays. Once the underlying cause has been identified, treatment can begin such as making sure your cat is properly hydrated (drinking enough) or if urinary or bladder stones are blocking the path of the urine.

In many cases the reason for blood in cat urine can be treated with antibiotics. Antibiotics will take care of most bacterial infections that lead to cat urine with blood in it. In some cases, you may need to change your pet's diet to help reduce the presence of cat bladder stones. More often than not, blood in cat urine will require increased levels of hydration. And if poisoning is suspected, additional levels of Vitamin K may be required.

The key to remember is that blood in cat urine is not normal and should be reported to your vet as soon as possible. Once the underlying reason for the cat urine with blood is known, treatments can begin and recovery can start.

Preventing Cat Urine and Feline Urinary Tract Problems

Your cat's urinary tract leads to the outside of the body so that your cat can urinate. While this allows urine to exit the body, it also provides a path for bacteria to enter. The body uses the chemical makeup of urine (high concentrations of urea) to cleanse the tract and kill organisms such as bacteria to prevent infection. The key to health then is frequent urination which has the effect of "cleansing all the organs in the urinary pathway including the ureters, bladder and kidneys and preventing other problems such as cat bladder infections which leads to problems such as cat urine with blood. You should also make sure your cat's liter box is clean so bacteria that resides on feces isn't entering the body.

Cat's by nature may not drink enough water as they tend to get the moisture they need through their food. Dietary change from dry kibble to canned food may be something to try if your cat is subject to feline urinary tract infections or has minor cases of blood in cat urine. You might also try natural remedies which help the urine and urinary tract maintain the PH necessary for the urine to properly cleanse the system. Ingredients such as Arctostaphylos uva ursi, Berberis vulgaris, Cantharis and Staphysagris are known to safely help maintain and possibly have a positive impact on the bladder and urinary tract. Discuss this option with your veterinarian if blood in cat urine is a continuing concern.

Jeff Grill ihas written hundreds of articles on cat health problems. See this site for more information on Blood in Cat Urine treatment options.

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Stop Changing Cat Litter With an Automatic Litter Box

Changing the cat litter has got to be one of the most despised chores, at least at my house. It's like drawing the short straw and ending up with the chore no body wants. If you hate changing cat litter, you may be interested in how we solved this dilemma and stopped changing cat litter. No, we didn't get rid of our beloved cats or just let it go (that would be stinky!). We invested in an automatic litter box.

An automatic litter box is self cleaning unit that makes quick work of cat box cleanup. Typically, they work around the clock on a timer and scoop and store waste for later disposal. Some models even go further and wash and disinfect themselves. This is great because waste doesn't have time to sit and develop the bacterial growth that gives it that funky smell.

There are quite a few different brands and types of automatic litter boxes. Some even bear quite the resemblance to a human potty, believe it or not. When choosing a self cleaning cat litter box, you should consider the type of litter the box uses. Many units require that you purchase special litter while others use ordinary clumping litter. Still others operate with preferment granules that never need changing. Be careful when you select a box because the type of litter can have a major impact on the overall lifetime cost of running the unit.

Another thing to keep in mind about these self cleaning boxes is that it may take kitty some time to adapt to the unit. Some make a certain degree of noise while they are in their cleaning mode which can be a put off to more skittish kitties. Our cats took their time adjusting but after a few days they had no problem using their new box.

If you would like to stop changing cat litter, an automatic cat litter box is a great investment. This once avoided chore now seems not so bad and even the kids don't mind being tasked with it. Now there's a bonus! Another big benefit is that it always stays fresh, even after a long day when nobody is home to monitor the litter box.

If you would like help choosing the right self cleaning litter box for you and your pets, be sure to check out my automatic litter box review site - Click Here. On my site you will find feedback from other cat owners on the various different boxes on the market and learn which ones really work and which ones are best avoided.

The author is the editor of http://www.selfcleaninglitterboxes.net

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5 Possible Causes of Frequent Urination in Cats and What You Can Do About It

Let's face it. In a cat frequent urination is a worrisome symptom. It can signal a serious illness or a bacterial infection but either way it can become life-threatening if not treated timely. Many factors such as your cat's urine smell, age, sex, and general behavior will help you determine what is causing your cat's urination problem. Here are 5 possible causes of frequent urination and what you can do about it.

1. Maybe you're thinking, "Help! My cat is urinating often!" There is no need to panic because the symptom is very common in cats of old age. Your old cat may urinate frequently because he is not capable of holding in his urine due to a loosened sphincter. It may frustrate you if you see your cat pee on the carpet or in another inappropriate area but try not to get angry because it is involuntary. Give your cat a homeopathic remedy to help strengthen his bladder sphincter.

2. In a cat frequent urination could be due to behavioral issues. Some cats spray or urinate to mark their territory. This type of behavior can be fixed in unneutered male cats by neutering them.

3. If you're thinking, "My cat is urinating often," it could be because she has a feline bladder infection. The infection may also cause her urine to smell bad. Take her to the veterinarian to get diagnosed. The vet will do some tests and prescribe antibiotics. Don't give her antibiotics and instead try to heal the infection by giving her plenty of filtered water to drink and administering a homeopathic remedy. The homeopathic remedy takes a little longer to work than drugs but it is completely safe and effectively relieves the pain and gets rid of the bad smell of your cat's wee. Mild infections can be easily treated with homeopathy.

4. In a cat frequent urination may be the sign of a serious disease like diabetes, cancer, or Cushing's disease. Your veterinarian will have to do some tests and exams to determine if a serious illness is underlying the symptoms. You can give your cat a homeopathic remedy as a complementary treatment to whatever treatment your vet decides to give your cat. It will help your cat recover more quickly.

5. If you're thinking, "My cat is urinating often," a blockage by a crystal or stone in your cat's kidney, bladder, or urinary tract may be the cause. A blockage will keep your cat from being able to empty his bladder completely. When the bladder gets very full, it pushes against the blockage and leaks around the sides. This leads to your cat having the frequent urge to urinate.

Your next step? Keep this information in mind the next time you notice strange symptoms in your cat. If your cat urinates in unusual places or has peed more or less often than normal, you should get him checked out as soon as possible. Your veterinarian will need to examine him to figure out the cause. Whatever the problem, homeopathic treatment is hands down the best way to take care of the job. In a cat frequent urination does not need to be treated with harsh drugs because a homeopathic remedy can do the trick. Obviously diseases and other serious issues need to be addressed but even in those situations a homeopathic remedy works great as a complementary therapy.

Your next step? Keep this information in mind the next time you notice strange symptoms in your cat. If your cat urinates in unusual places or has peed more or less often than normal, you should get him checked out as soon as possible. Your veterinarian will need to examine him to figure out the cause. Whatever the problem, homeopathic treatment is hands down the best way to take care of the job. In a cat frequent urination does not need to be treated with harsh drugs because a homeopathic remedy can do the trick. Obviously diseases and other serious issues need to be addressed but even in those situations a homeopathic remedy works great as a complementary therapy.

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Persian Cats

Owning a Persian cat is really wonderful. This beauty is somewhat a cross between a small dog and a domestic cat. They most definitely have a personality all their own. I know this because I am the owner of 6 Persians. They are just the sweetest animals that our God has created and I love mine very much. 3 of the 6 Persians that I own are from Rescues.

Let me tell my story about Madison. I saw her picture on a Persian cat adoption website and fell in love. I have always wanted a White Persian but they are really hard to find and very expensive. I followed through and filled out the online application and within a week I was invited up to Wisconsin to visit and see this beauty and decide on whether or not I would be a possible new owner. I remember my first thought was how very thin and scared she looked. When I opened her cage she ran under a locker that was along the wall of the room. After a few minutes I could see her peek out at me.

And I just fell in love with this baby. I knew that I had to get this girl into a safe house with nourishment and love. From stress she had already lost a substantial amount of her hair and when I finally convinced her to allow me to pick her up I could feel the vertebrae in her back. And there were a few major knots on her shoulder and along her side that needed to be attended to. Yes with God's help I could make her healthy again!

That was 3 months ago and Madison is like another cat. She has gained over 2 lbs. and her fur is coming back really beautifully. This little girl has quite the personality and she definately keeps in line the other male cats in the house even though she is the smallest.

How does a Persian end up in shelters and on the street? Well that is the biggest heart breaker friends. They are, in my opinion, very cute little kittens at one time that grow into very high maintenance cats that need almost daily brushing of their fur in order to maintain their coats. They overwhelm the unprepared new owner and end up in shelters, shaved and without loving homes.

They are generally one person cats but in the right environment, with the right persons can adjust well to a family that is willing to take on the extra maintenance involved with owning a Persian.

I believe that it is very important for anyone considering a long haired kitten to think really hard about being able to maintain this baby for the next fifteen to 18 years. Thank you for reading my article and I hope to see you on my web site.

Julie Bradley

I have a web site that I have dedicated to Persians and I welcome you to visit. I welcome you to visit my store for links to products and magazines that will guide you to a better understanding of the Persian cat. It is aboutpersiancats.com.

I also show some pictures on http://askjulie.net

Julie
http://aboutpersiancats.com

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Feline Urinary Tract Infection - Antibiotics or Natural Treatment

Feline urinary tract infection can be dangerous for you cat if not treated. Your cat will experience pain in the abdomen, pain when urinating, itching, burning, and fever. Without proper treatment, the infection can progress to chronic status and cause veterinarian bills to stack up. Learning the types of treatment and prevention available will save you and kitty a lot of pain and suffering.

Alternative Feline UTI Treatments

Alternative feline UTI treatments employ the use of natural and herbal remedies. This holistic approach is now available for your cat in a standardized herbal supplement made to prevent, treat, and promote overall health of your feline's urinary tract system. The supplement, PetAlive UTI-Free, uses Barberry and Bearberry (natural antibiotics) and the restorative Cantharis. By holistic methods, feline UTI symptoms are relieved, the urinary tract system of your pet is reinforced, and frequent recurrence is prevented.

Conventional Feline UTI Treatments

Conventional feline UTI treatments begin with preventive hygienic practices; from a fresh water supply to a clean, accessible litter box. For nutritional support of your pet's urinary tract infection, it is recommended to feed commercial cat food that is packed with essential nutrients. Veterinarians would most likely prescribe kitty antibiotics designed for feline urinary tract infection. However, these generally do not successfully control the disease.

Your cat can experience a recurrence of the feline UTI, even after extensive treatment. Most medications are bad about impairing the biochemic processes sustaining cat health, compromising immune system defenses and promoting recurrent infections or other diseases. There are severe side effects of veterinary medicine in long term treatment. You might even consider treating the side effects naturally. For chronic feline urinary tract infection, catheterization or surgery may be recommended.

Whether you choose to treat your pet for feline urinary tract infection by alternative or conventional treatments, you must begin treatment as soon as you notice the signs that your pet is sick. Don't hesitate to take your pet to the vet and begin treatment, it could be the difference life or death for kitty.

Janet Markowitz has been a German Shepherd Breeder for over 20 years. She has always been interested in using natural and holistic remedies for her Shepherds whenever possible. She has found that by using natural Remedies in conjunction with conventional medicine, she has achieved great success in the health and longevity in her dogs.

http://www.PetsNaturalRemedies.net

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5 Natural Methods of Preventing Feline Urinary Problems

Feline urinary problems aren't inevitable. They can be easily prevented with some care and caution. The conventional veterinary treatments for feline urinary issues can be quite harsh not to mention expensive. You can save yourself a lot of money and trouble by preventing urinary issues with natural home treatment.

Here are 5 natural methods for preventing feline urinary tract infections. Try incorporating them into your cat's regular routine for optimal results. Just treating a problem when it arises isn't enough to maintain your cat's health. You must take care each day to keep your cat optimally healthy.

Give your cat cranberry juice. Cranberry juice acidifies the urine and makes it hard for bacteria to stick to bladder walls. The accumulation of bacteria is what leads to feline urinary problems after all.

Make sure to give your cat 100% cranberry juice. Avoid supermarket brands because they tend to contain corn syrup and other additives. Natural cranberry juice is not very tasty but you can add it to your cat's water bowl so it's less noticeable.

Make sure to switch to filtered water or bottled water. Tap water is not good for cats and can cause feline urinary tract infections because it often contains harmful chemicals and bacteria. Filtered water is safe and clean enough to flush out the harmful toxins that lead to urinary problems.

It's also important to ensure that your kitty gets water to drink each day. Soak his food in water or get him a water fountain bowl to ensure that his fluid intake is sufficient. Dehydration can cause feline urinary problems because it leads to a thickening of urine.

To strengthen your cat's immune system and make it easier for him to stay infection-free, give him vitamin C every day. Ask your vet how much is appropriate for your cat based on his size. Too much vitamin C can cause diarrhea.

Keep your cat's diet natural. Avoid overly processed commercial cat food. You can head to a natural foods store to find additive-free cat food or prepare your own. Make sure there is enough protein in the food.

Commercial cat food is a no-no because it contains too much carbohydrates and minerals. These ingredients in high concentrations can lead to an imbalance of the urine's pH level and thus create an environment where bacteria thrive.

Homeopathic remedies are the best defense against feline urinary problems. Urinary problems in cats are known to recur if the underlying imbalances are not addressed. Homeopathic remedies restore balance at a cellular level.

Homeopathic remedies are a great weapon against feline urinary tract infections because they contain powerful urinary tonics that are very effective yet side-effect free. They help to promote better urine flow and bladder functioning. To top it off, they improve your cat's overall health.

Give your cat a homeopathic remedy twice daily for the best results. You will notice a dramatic difference in the way your cat acts if you give him a homeopathic remedy. His energy level will improve and he will no longer suffer from urinary problems.

Keep these tips in mind so you can help your cat stay infection-free. Bladder problems are no fun for you or your cat. Avoid unnecessary veterinary bills and pain for your cat by making these natural methods for preventing feline urinary problems a regular part of his routine.

If you want to make sure you are giving your pets the best health care available, please take time to read more about the many natural alternatives at my site: http://www.natural-pet-treatment.com

BIO: Ann Matthews is a long time pet health enthusiast with Native Remedies/Pet Alive who has a real passion for the well-being of all our pets.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ann_Matthews

Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease - 5 Important Facts All Cat Owners Should Know

Feline lower urinary tract disease... just the sound of it might give you the chills but you shouldn't panic if your vet utters these words. It is a relatively common disease and it certainly doesn't mean that your cat is on his death bed.

Feline lower urinary tract disorder can be easily prevented if you take the necessary precautions at home. Here are 5 important facts every cat owner should know about feline urinary problems.

Feline lower urinary tract disease is a very general term. It refers to a wide range of conditions that affect your cat's bladder. The most common conditions are urinary tract infections and bladder stones. Bladder stone are more common in male cats because their urethras are long and narrow.

If a blockage due to the accumulation of crystals or stones forms in your cat's bladder and he stops urinating altogether, you need to take him to the vet immediately. A total cessation of urination can be fatal if not treated promptly.

There are many factors that cause feline lower urinary tract disorder and they include dehydration, stress, a magnesium-rich diet, and too much acidity in the urine. These factors can be easily addressed with a few simple changes.

Make sure your cat gets plenty of water to drink and leads a stress-free lifestyle. Also give him cranberry juice to keep his urine acidified and avoid commercial cat food. Natural, unprocessed food is the best for cats.

A number of symptoms can help you figure out early on whether your cat is suffering from feline lower urinary tract disease. The last thing you want to do is be so oblivious that you end up rushing your cat to the emergency room at the last minute.

Some signs of feline urinary issues include foul-smelling urine, straining to urinate, frequent urination, urinating outside of the litter box, and blood in the urine. Keep an eye on your cat's habits around the litter box at all times so you can spot any unusual behavior.

Unfortunately, cats that get feline lower urinary tract disease once typically get it again. To keep your cat from getting it again, you have to take preventive measures. Change his diet and make sure he gets enough water. Most importantly give him a homeopathic remedy on a regular basis.

Homeopathic remedies contain safe amounts of plant ingredients that are highly effective in improving the flow of urine and preventing blockages. They also improve the overall functioning of the bladder and urinary tract. Give a homeopathic remedy to your cat everyday for the best results. Look for one that contains well-known urinary tonics such as cantharis and uva ursi.

Remember to keep these factors in mind so you can keep your cat and his bladder healthy. Feline lower urinary tract disease may not be a death sentence but it can get serious if you don't do something about it in time. Use homeopathy and other preventive treatments at home to keep your cat healthy and yourself worry-free.

If you want to make sure you are giving your pets the best health care available, please take time to read more about the many natural alternatives at my site: http://www.natural-pet-treatment.com

BIO: Ann Matthews is a long time pet health enthusiast with Native Remedies/Pet Alive who has a real passion for the well-being of all our pets

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ann_Matthews

How Long Are Cats Pregnant - Symptoms of a Pregnant Cat!

Unless you're breeding your cat your not very likely to know she's pregnant. By the time you can tell she's pregnant your cat will be well advanced in the gestation period. The mother doesn't begin to show signs of her pregnancy until two weeks before delivery time. Here are some common signs and symptoms you should see if your cat is pregnant, also helps in knowing how long are cats pregnant for:

* Nipples will begin to enlarge and become more soft and pink.
* Showing obvious signs of weight gain mostly in the mid section.
* As she nearer to birth time she'll be eating more.
* Signs of being more affectionate.
* She begins building herself a nest to have her kittens.

How long are cats pregnant? The normal development (gestation) is between 58 to 65 days or about 9 weeks. The usual number of kittens that are born can be between 1 to as many as 8 in the litter. The norm (average) number of kittens is 3 to 5. If you want a more accurate count as to the number of kittens, a veterinarian can give you a very accurate count by examining the abdomen. They can also perform a ultrasound to verify the actual number of kittens.

Healthy cats don't need a lot of special care during pregnancy. They can carry on being cats in most of their common activities. Outdoor cats should be kept indoors for the length of the pregnancy. You should discourage ruff playing activities with other pets or Adults and children. The pregnant queen should not be allowed from these activities during her pregnancy. Do not poke the cat's belly to feel for the kittens if pregnancy is suspected, as this could cause her to miscarriage.

Are you ready for the birth of your kittens? Don't put your cat and kittens at risk! Discover the secrets that veterinarians and cat breeders use, to keep their pregnant cat safe and healthy, AND raise happy, healthy kittens! Take a look at my Web site: How Long Are Cats Pregnant

You don't have to do this alone!

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How to Train Your Cat at Home

The process of training a cat is considered to be impossible by many people. But most of the cats are naturally trained in the home and that makes the training easier for the pet. Cats can naturally remain very clean and should be always kept in a clean environment.

When you own the kitten for the first time try to keep it confined in a small room. This gives you an opportunity look after them easily. The bed to sleep, dishes for food and water should be cleaned and placed in the room. A quite environment is need of the cat to overcome it fear and get accustomed to the surroundings. Initially you will have to clean the litter yourself. But gradually the kitten must be trained for using the litter pan. Let the cat to roam freely after a few days.

The cat can be kept inside the house itself if you can put some butter on its paws and allow it to walk around. This kitten will not be able go far with butter in the paws and can study the surroundings and not being able to run away from the home. Spend some time very day top take the cat for walk. Leash can be used when you are taking the cat for a walk. But some cat will find it difficult with a leash. If the cat can walk along with you allow it to do so, otherwise it will be better to give leash training to the cat.

The choice of the litter must be done carefully. You should not use litter that contains deodorants. During the initial period of litter training use some soiled litter mixed with fresh litter. This will act as a powerful stimulus for using the fresh litter. Always take care to clean the litter pan frequently.

Looking for quality tips on training your cat, visit http://www.CatTrainingSecrets.net. If you are looking for the most recommended online course on training your cat, you should read this review of Cat Training Online.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rafe_Rois

8 Ways to Tell If Your Cat Has a Urinary Tract Infection

Boy, did I learn a valuable lesson. My cat was acting lethargic and strange so I got worried and took her to the veterinarian. Turns out she had a urinary tract infection that had traveled up to her kidneys! My veterinarian told me that if I had waited any longer, my poor cat would have died. That was a wake-up call for me and made me realize that in order to keep my cat safe, I needed to learn what the signs and symptoms of cat urinary infection were so I could spot it quickly. Here are 8 ways to tell if your cat has a urinary infection before it's too late.

1. If your cat is cringing in pain while urinating, this is a definite sign of cat urinary problems. It's important to know how your cat normally behaves in order to detect any unusual behavior.

2. Excessive grooming of the genitals can possibly be a sign of cat urinary infection, especially if your cat is crying while grooming.

3. Is your cat urinating more or less frequently than usual? Take note of any changes in urination patterns.

4. Dehydration can be one of the first signs of cat urinary problems so if you notice your cat drinking more water than usual, your cat could possibly be suffering from a urinary tract infection.

5. Let your cat urinate on a light-colored surface. If you see traces of blood in your cat's urine, it is most likely a sign of cat urinary infection. Take your cat to a veterinarian for immediate diagnosis.

6. If your cat is urinating outside of its litter box, it is a sign of cat urinary problems. This happens because your cat associates the pain of urinating with the litter box and therefore tries to avoid it all costs.

7. If your cat has a fever, and tender abdomen when you pick it up this is also a uti symptom you should be concerned about. Lethargy is a sign of the later stages of uti.

8. If your cat stops urinating altogether, it is a serious red flag and you should take your cat to the veterinarian immediately. If your cat goes even 3 to 4 days without urinating, it can be fatal.

In conclusion, if you want to treat your cat's urinary tract infection before it's too late, it's important to keep abreast of these signs and symptoms. Cat urinary infection can be fatal if not treated in time. The best way to treat these symptoms however is at home with a homeopathic remedy before they spiral out of control. Your first step should be to go to a veterinarian and get a correct diagnosis. Then you can administer a homeopathic remedy and make some important lifestyle changes. By doing so, you can kill two birds with one stone and treat the infection while preventing recurrence.

John Paduchak is a pet enthusiast and webmaster of http://pet-bladder-health.com and http://mariespetshop.com Throughout his life, John grew up on a 140 acre farm in upstate NY and had pet friends of many varieties. Now he currently has 3 cats, freshwater tropical fish, & 4 hermit crabs that he shares with his daughter, Marie. A strong supporter of naturopathy for pets he publishes articles on their care and training.

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First Time Cat Owners - 3 Biggest Mistakes

A few years ago, a recently divorced gentleman adopted a cat at my shelter. He wanted a companion but couldn't risk a pet that might bark, since he lived in an apartment, so he opted to adopt his very first cat. When I visited him a few hours later, at his request, to see if he had things set up correctly, I had to stifle some laughter. He had made some basic mistakes with his cat, but nothing serious that couldn't be fixed immediately.

The first thing I noticed was that everything was over-full. The litter box had sand up to the rim. The water and food bowls also were filled to the rim. At least it was obvious he wanted to be a good provider. But clearly he'd had no education in basic physics!

I'm sure the cat would have made its first mess after using that litter box, and the new owner might have been annoyed. So the first thing I did was to remove more than half the litter, explaining that cats need to bury their waste and do so by pawing the sand. Too much sand, and most of it will end up on the floor. Even a fastidious cat would not be able to avoid that.

Filling food bowls too full might not lead to a mess, but could lead to some weight gain, or vomiting, or spoiled food, since cats don't always eat whatever is in their bowl, as a dog would. The second thing I did, then, was to put half the food back in the bag. Then I emptied some of the water out, too, since that could cause a mess if someone bumped it.

These, then, are the 3 most common mistakes first-time cat owners make and how to fix them:

1. Over-filling bowls and pans. There really only needs to be no more than 2 inches of sand in the litter pan. It's not only easier for the cat, but easier for the human to scoop out the solids, and there is less chance of strewing sand everywhere.

Filling food bowls isn't even necessary. According to many pet nutrition experts, cats only need about one half to one cup of food, twice a day, depending on their size and age. Kittens need to eat more often, of course, since they are growing, and senior cats need less, because they have lower energy needs. Also, many experts advise against leaving food out all day to allow "free feeding." Cats like routine, so take advantage of that and keep a meal schedule. Keep only fresh food in the bowl to prevent the growth of bacteria, mold and attracting insects.

Plenty of water is no mistake; however, cats don't drink large amounts of water, so a bowl with one to two cups of water is sufficient for the day. Just be sure to change it often enough to keep it fresh... at least daily. Never expect your cat to drink from a slimy bowl with days-old water.

2. Not providing the cat its own bed. Many new cat owners expect kitty to either sleep on the bed with them, or to simply find a quiet corner somewhere for the night. A new cat is not going to be in love with you on the first day, so forget about sharing your bed for now. There are exceptions, but don't insist on it. If it happens, just appreciate it. Always give kitty some time to make the decision to join you, if that's what you want.

Be sure to let him see where he is allowed to sleep. Set up a box, a basket, or a shelf with a towel or fluffy mat for comfort. Sprinkle a little catnip on it to help create some interest, and place the bed in a low-traffic location in your home. Cats value privacy, quiet and security. Even a "wild and crazy" cat needs to get away from the excitement now and then to relax and feel safe.

3. Not providing identification. Many people believe their indoor cats do not need an ID tag. That's true... most of the time. However, many cats have escaped from the house without a collar, tag or any means of identification. Most of them come back inside in a little while, but once in a while, one becomes lost or injured, or frightened, and does not come back.

There is a saying in the rescue community: "Ninety-five percent of pets with no identification are never returned, but ninety-five percent of those with ID are reunited with their owners." It's a loose "statistic," but the concept is valid. Another sad fact is that more effort is made to return a dog than a cat. To be safe, cats should have some identification, even if they are strictly indoors.

For more information about cat care and to get specific questions answered, visit http://www.theproblemcat.com/faq.html

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dr._R.J._Peters

Myths About Cats That Can Cost Them Their Lives

Throughout the ages, as long as people have been aware of their surroundings, there have been myths to explain what was unexplainable at the time. This is true of everything, and many people and animals were tortured and put to death for beliefs that are now considered nonsense. Many were accused of being witches, for example, and we know what happened to those poor souls. Not all of them were women... some were animals, including cats.

Unfortunately, some of those nonsensical ideas are still around and sometimes cats are still paying the price.

The following beliefs about cats are old wives' tales and need to be discarded for what they are.

1. Stealing a baby's breath. Oh come on... No one knew what SIDS was until recently, but cats are still being blamed for it by some people. Sudden Infant Death Syndrome is now better understood, and a scientific explanation has finally been published. Although this is a very recent development, it is still ludicrous to believe that a cat could ever suck the breath out of a child. Cats often will rhythmically press their paws on someone as a gesture of contentment, (called treading or kneading) and they often extend those feelings to infants in the family. Can you imagine patting your favorite uncle on the back as a gesture of love, then being grabbed in the middle of your warm feelings and being beaten to a pulp? Surely, many cats have died while wondering what the heck they did. Wow... loving humans can be dangerous.

2. Eating raw meat causes cats to go wild. OK, Fluffy may growl menacingly while gnoshing on a morsel of raw meat. Yes, it's a throwback to an instinct, harkening back to a wild time in the history of cats, when they had to defend their kill from other predators, even from each other. But today's gentle housecat is just answering the momentary call of the wild, which will be immediately forgotten after they've eaten. Big deal.

3. Cats are not quite domesticated and will go wild if released. Abandoning a housecat to the streets or the countryside is nothing less than a death sentence. They do not "go wild." They can't. If they weren't born out there, with a mother to teach them survival skills, they simply will not survive. Mostly, they die of starvation, exposure, injury and disease. Just watch television one day. Catch a documentary on wild animals. Notice that wildlife experts who rescue orphans have to train them to hunt and find their own way before they can be released back into their territory with others of their kind. Why would anyone expect a tame cat with no training to go wild, when it takes concerted effort to help one that *was* born wild to go back?

4. They'll eat when they get hungry enough. No, they won't. Cats will die for some of the simplest of reasons. Cats are very sensitive, emotionally, and will starve to death if they are removed from their familiar surroundings... and that includes their people. Any shelter will tell you that some cats, surrendered by people who no longer want them or can't keep them, will die because they miss their home or their humans. They will not eat. Period. Soon, physiology takes over and they go into liver failure. They rarely recover from this. A cat that comes into a shelter must be watched carefully to note any signs of depression. If they are not eating, action must be taken immediately to either force-feed, or to find a way to elevate their mood.

5. Cats will soil your bed, pillow, clothes or anywhere that particularly annoys you, as a means of revenge if you don't give them what they want. This presupposes that cats have the human emotion of revenge, which, of course, they do not. Cats do not spend their days plotting to get even with you for perceived infractions. It can certainly look like it, since our Behavior A may be followed by their Behavior B. Generally, though, they are not related, no matter how much it appears to be. If you don't even do Behavior A, the cat still may be found doing its thing anyway. These situations are hard to investigate and solve, because it usually turns into a guessing game as we try, fruitlessly, to find out what we did wrong so we can avoid doing it again. This is a good time to consult with an animal behaviorist. It may be a stress reaction to something you can't figure out, and may have nothing to do with you, such as a new odor or sound in the house you aren't aware of.

Cats are great companions and anyone who denies that isn't paying attention. Learn to deal with problems before giving up on the cat.

For more information about cats, visit http://www.theproblemcat.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dr._R.J._Peters

Three Tips to Stop Cat's Scratching Habit

The cats use their claws for scratching for a variety of reason. They may be scratching objects for communication or marking territory. The cats show the tendency to scratch in the same area for a period of time. Scratching of cats have nothing unusual to it and is quite natural. Scratching also has some benefits for the cat; it helps to keep the nails healthy and removes the old layers of nail present on the nails of the cat.

The suitable method to stop cat scratching is providing a scratching post and teaching him how to use it. Scratching is instinctive to cats and is difficult to stop it completely. But providing a scratching post makes it possible to provide satisfaction for the cat as well as will not damage any valuable items in the house. Scratching valuable items like furniture or carpets in the house is that causes frustration to the cat. If the cat is directed to scratching this unacceptable scratching stops. The aim of the owner must not be stopping scratching but to stop scratching on everything that the cat see around.

There is certain taste in scratching for the cat. Some cats like to scratch in soft things while some prefers hard items. Some cats need to scratch on things of certain type at certain type. So the likes of the cat must be considered before designing the scratching post. The post must be chosen such a way that it will not get damaged after some scratching. Scratching posts made of wood will not get damaged quite easily and most cats like scratching it.

The scratch post must have the enough for the cat to stretch out fully when using it. This will give an opportunity exercise the muscles of the cat. The cat should be made aware that the post is only place that it should scratch.

Looking for quality tips on training your cat, visit http://www.CatTrainingSecrets.net/. If you are looking for the most recommended online course on training your cat, you should read this review of Stop Cat's Scratching.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rafe_Rois

Cat Worm Symptoms - Your "I'm Not an Idiot" Guide to Recognizing the Symptoms of Cat Worms

Read this guide and your cat will thank you for recognizing cat worm symptoms before these parasites do her long term harm. There are several types of parasitic worms that can infest your cat like: lungworms, hookworms, roundworms, tapeworms and cat heartworm. There's plenty of synthetic parasiticides on the market, but you can opt for a natural approach to treating cat worms.

Some cat worm symptoms can be pretty darn obvious, like when kitty vomits an enormous load of half digested breakfast along with something that looks like short spaghetti. Chances are you're looking at roundworms.

Other times, the problems caused by cat worms aren't as obvious. Perhaps your cat is wheezing - you may think she has asthma or a cold. Every year veterinarians are presented with thousands of cats showing all the signs of a respiratory illness. In fact, a microscopic exam of your cat's feces may indicate the presence of lungworms in her respiratory tract. The presence of lungworms will cause her to exhibit symptoms similar to asthma, but the proper remedy is much different than the treatment for asthma.

If you just adopted a kitten or an adult cat, its a pretty sure bet she came pre-loaded with cat worms. If you haven't made it to the vet for a final diagnosis, monitor her stools in the litter box. A black, tarry or even bloody stool is a sure sign of a hookworm infection. Take her in to your vet for a reliable diagnosis.

Cats that have an advanced case of roundworms may exhibit cat worm symptoms including serious diarrhea, frequent vomiting or both. Blood may be present in the the diarrhea and vomit. The poor creature is trying to expel these bloodsuckers naturally. Unfortunately, the persistent diarrhea dehydrates her. When she vomits she ends up swallowing some of the regurgitated roundworms.

All cat worms are parasites; they suck blood. Cats and kittens are candidates for anemia. The most tragic health threat is an impacted intestinal tract - your kitten's intestines packed with a mass of roundworms. Young cats are particularly susceptible to an intestinal perforation when this mass moves about.

Tapeworms aren't as devastating to your cat's health as some of the other parasites. You can recognize these cat worm symptoms too. Take a look at her anal area. She's probably showing it to you 2 or 3 times a day during your petting sessions. Seize the moment. Do you see small, white, rice-like segments? Well, its not rice - its a segment of tapeworm.

A cat infected by a cat heartworm may be gagging, coughing, have difficult breathing or vomiting. Or she may show no signs of cat worms - she may suddenly drop dead.

So here's your "I'm Not An Idiot Guide To Recognizing To Recognizing Cat Worm Symptoms"

Your cat is exhibiting one or more of these symptoms...

1. Coughing, wheezing or problems breathing;
2. Vomiting a batch of white, short spaghetti-like casings;
3. Gagging;
4. Frequent bouts of vomiting;
5. Diarrhea;
6. Black, tarry stools;
7. White, rice-like casings sticking around her anal area

Its likely your vet will suggest a topical or oral synthetic treatment for purging cat worms. However, many cat owners are opting for more natural treatments using herbal remedies like Artemisia absinthinium (also called Wormwood). This herb is widely used in homeopathic practices to treat cat parasites. Consider it as a viable option to rid your cat's parasites and free her of debilitating cat worm symptoms.

Kate Rieger has been owned by 15+ cats and is a champion of spay and release for her feral cat neighbors. She is partnered with the Kentucky S.N.I.P clinic and together they provide affordable solutions for pet owners. Never one to be short on opinion, she is on good behavior during her speaking engagements at local organizations where she spreads the word about natural alternatives to helping cats live long lives and teaching owners how to treat cat worm symptoms with natural remedies. Drop by and pick up a free copy of her eBook '111 Things You Don't Know That Could Harm Your Cat' that shows you how to protect your cat from conditions that could injure your cat. Pick up a copy and protect your cat today.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kate_Rieger

Are You Abusing Your Cat?

Do you do it out of ignorance?

Please allow me to educate you. This article could very well upset you but I urge you to read it in its entirety because your cat's life hangs in the balance.

The first thing you must understand is that the physiology of cats is very different from humans. Humans are omnivores - meaning that our bodies are well designed to digest fruits, vegetables and meats. Our bodies have long digestive systems therefore our bodies can extract nutrients from fruits, vegetables and meats and benefit from them.

Cats are obligate carnivores their bodies have a short, acidic digestive tract. Their bodies are well suited for digesting raw meat but they have difficulty digesting fruits, vegetables and processed carbohydrates. Prolong use of fruits, vegetables and processed carbohydrates will cause your cat to develop food related illnesses such as; diabetes and irritable bowel disease also known as IBD.

The commercial cat food companies sell large amounts of the cheaply produced, bagged dry cat foods. Cat caregivers purchase this food out of convenience and after viewing misleading ads produced by the commercial cat food companies. Their ads make you think that such things as; fruits, vegetables and large amounts of processed carbohydrates are beneficial to your cat.

When you enter a supermarket or other places that sell cat food and you see bags of cat food with fruits and vegetables on them, this gives you the false impression that since fruits and vegetables are good for humans, then they must be good for your cat. But this is a wrong and dangerous belief.

This is the same as taking a human that's been a vegetarian for many years and changing his diet to a strict meat-based diet. This would wreck havoc on his digestive system. It will cause constipation coupled with deterioration in his health and a premature death.

You do the exact same thing to your cat, an obligate carnivore, when you feed him/her foods their bodies were never designed to digest. Feeding those fruits, vegetables and processed carbohydrates is wrecking havoc on their digestive system and as a result, they are dying prematurely.

Although the commercial cat food companies are responsible for perpetrating these false beliefs on an unsuspecting public, you have the responsibility of ensuring that your cat's food is nutritional.

The commercial cat food companies do it for money. They are part of a multi-billion dollar, mostly unregulated pet food industry. You do it out of love for your cat. I know you really do believe that by feeding your cat what the commercial cat companies tell you is nutritional - is right but that is not true.

Do you really know what goes into a bag of dry cat food?

Your cat could be a cannibal without you knowing it. Yes, dead dogs and cats have been known to find their way into pet foods. It is not uncommon for pet food companies to use the four D's (dead, dying, diseased, disabled) animals.

The four D's can include road-kill (dead animals found on the side of the roadways), euthanized animal from Veterinarian clinics, dying circus animals and ill farm animals that are not fit for human consumption and other animals that are riddled with cancerous tumors. You will find these ingredients listed on the bag as meat meal, animal digest, animal by-product or meat by-product.

It's as if the commercial cat food companies thought that the aforementioned toxic ingredients are not enough because to exacerbate the situation, they add known toxic preservatives.

In order to extend the shelf life of their foods, they use such deadly preservatives as; Ethoxyquin, BHA and BHT. All these preservatives have been linked to kidney and liver failure in cats.

How can any food that sits in a hot warehouse for twelve to eighteen months be considered nutritional?

It's time for you to break the strangle-hold the pet food companies have on you and your cats. You need to take control of their diets and stop feeding them foods that are harmful. This is not a difficult process. The one thing you must be cognizance of is the fact that cats are carnivores. They should be fed a meat-based diet and by doing so, you and your cat will have many years together.

About the Author: Ike Lowe, Researcher and Cat Nutrition Expert is avid about and writes extensively on proper cat nutrition. His unsurpassed nutritional knowledge boldly comes alive in his riveting must read book. "21 Nutritious Cat Food Alternatives the Commercial Pet Food Industry Hopes You Never Discover" He goes for the juggler of the commercial cat food industry exposing the horrible truth about the toxic ingredients causing premature cat deaths. Get the facts on proper cat nutrition and prevent your cat from a premature and painful death. click here http://www.whatiskillingourcats.com

This is a win win for you and your cat.

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