Cat Gifts

Give A Cat A Special Home

Michael — Thu, 17 Jan 2013 02:55:38 +0000

Copied From Facebook

The shelter manager's letter:

"I am posting this (and it is long) because I think our society needs a huge wake-up call.

As a shelter manager, I am going to share a little insight with you all - a view from the inside, if you will.
Maybe if you saw the life drain from a few sad, lost, confused eyes, you would change your mind about breeding and selling to people you don't even know - that puppy you just sold will most likely end up in my shelter when it's not a cute little puppy anymore.

How would you feel if you knew that there's about a 90% chance that dog will never walk out of the shelter it is going to be dumped at - purebred or not! About 50% of all of the dogs that are "owner surrenders" or "strays" that come into my shelter are purebred dogs.

No shortage of excuses
The most common excuses I hear are:

We are moving and we can't take our dog (or cat).

- Really? Where are you moving to that doesn't allow pets?

The dog got bigger than we thought it would.

-How big did you think a German Shepherd would get?

We don't have time for her.

- Really? I work a 10-12 hour day and still have time for my 6 dogs!

She's tearing up our yard.

-How about bringing her inside, making her a part of your family?

They always tell me:

We just don't want to have to stress about finding a place for her. We know she'll get adopted - she's a good dog. Odds are your pet won't get adopted, and how stressful do you think being in a shelter is?

Well, let me tell you. Dead pet walking!

Your pet has 72 hours to find a new family from the moment you drop it off, sometimes a little longer if the shelter isn't full and your dog manages to stay completely healthy. If it sniffles, it dies.

Your pet will be confined to a small run / kennel in a room with about 25 other barking or crying animals. It will have to relieve itself where it eats and sleeps. It will be depressed and it will cry constantly for the family that abandoned it.
If your pet is lucky, I will have enough volunteers that day to take him / her for a walk. If I don't, your pet won't get any attention besides having a bowl of food slid under the kennel door and the waste sprayed out of its pen with a high-powered hose.
If your dog is big, black or any of the "bully" breeds (pit bull, rottweiler, mastiff, etc) it was pretty much dead when you walked it through the front door. Those dogs just don't get adopted.
If your dog doesn't get adopted within its 72 hours and the shelter is full, it will be destroyed.

If the shelter isn't full and your dog is good enough, and of a desirable enough breed, it may get a stay of execution, though not for long. Most pets get very kennel protective after about a week and are destroyed for showing aggression. Even the sweetest dogs will turn in this environment.
If your pet makes it over all of those hurdles, chances are it will get kennel cough or an upper respiratory infection and will be destroyed because shelters just don't have the funds to pay for even a $100 treatment.

The grim reaper
Here's a little euthanasia 101 for those of you that have never witnessed a perfectly healthy, scared animal being "put-down".
First, your pet will be taken from its kennel on a leash. They always look like they think they are going for a walk - happy, wagging their tails. That is, until they get to "The Room".

Every one of them freaks out and puts on the breaks when we get to the door. It must smell like death, or they can feel the sad souls that are left in there. It's strange, but it happens with every one of them. Your dog or cat will be restrained, held down by 1 or 2 vet techs (depending on their size and how freaked out they are). A euthanasia tech or a vet will start the process. They find a vein in the front leg and inject a lethal dose of the "pink stuff". Hopefully your pet doesn't panic from being restrained and jerk it's leg. I've seen the needles tear out of a leg and been covered with the resulting blood, and been deafened by the yelps and screams.

They all don't just "go to sleep" - sometimes they spasm for a while, gasp for air and defecate on themselves.
When it all ends, your pet's corpse will be stacked like firewood in a large freezer in the back, with all of the other animals that were killed, waiting to be picked up like garbage.

What happens next? Cremated? Taken to the dump? Rendered into pet food? You'll never know, and it probably won't even cross your mind. It was just an animal, and you can always buy another one, right?

Liberty, freedom and justice for all

I hope that those of you that have read this are bawling your eyes out and can't get the pictures out of your head. I do everyday on the way home from work. I hate my job, I hate that it exists and I hate that it will always be there unless people make some changes and realize that the lives you are affecting go much farther than the pets you dump at a shelter.

Between 9 and 11 MILLION animals die every year in shelters and only you can stop it. I do my best to save every life I can but rescues are always full, and there are more animals coming in everyday than there are homes. My point to all of this is DON'T BREED OR BUY WHILE SHELTER PETS DIE!

Hate me if you want to - the truth hurts and reality is what it is.
I just hope I maybe changed one person's mind about breeding their dog, taking their loving pet to a shelter, or buying a dog. I hope that someone will walk into my shelter and say "I saw this thing on craigslist and it made me want to adopt". That would make it all worth it."

How To Catch Your Cat Doing Hilarious Tricks

Michael — Fri, 07 Dec 2012 02:11:39 +0000

If you have gone on YouTube, then you have probably seen thousands of popular videos of cats doing tricks. Most people want their cats to have some YouTube glory, so they try to record their cat doing hilarious tricks. While this seems easy at first, you might find that it becomes incredibly frustrating when you’ve been recoding for several days and you haven’t recorded anything worth showing on YouTube. If you are having this problem, then try using these tips to make things a little easier. It might still take a long time, but this should help you get some good footage.

Position Cameras
You should position cameras around your house so that you can capture the cat doing hilarious tricks when you aren’t around. Many cats will do funny things when you’re out of the house, but you’ll only be able to record these instances if you have cameras positioned throughout your home.

You should position cameras in places where your cat usually roams. The litter box and food tray are two obvious places, but there are probably other areas where your cat roams around. It might also be a good idea to add a camera outside if your cat frequently leaves the house.

If you want the best chances of catching your cat doing something funny, then you should place cameras in every room. This might be a little difficult and expensive, but it’s the best way to ensure that nothing is missed regardless of where you are at the time.

Create a Scene
Try creating a scene that will prompt your cat to act. This can be something as simple as placing an object where your cat usually roams, or something more elaborate like changing everything in the room to see if the cat reacts. Creating a scene can force your cat to do something funny, but this is not guaranteed.

Don’t do anything that could hurt your cat. You want to record something funny. You don’t want to accidentally injure your cat while trying to make a funny video. Just play some tricks on him or her to see if you can get good footage.

The good thing about cats is that they love to climb. You can easily place a few objects together and your cat might start bouncing around the entire room. Just try different objects to see what happens.

Find Triggers
Every cat reacts to something. It can be a dog barking outside, two of your cats being in the same room or when you cook something. Cats have triggers that will make them react. You should pay attention to your cat to see what his or her triggers are. This can help you find things that will make him or her do some hilarious trick.

Just follow your pet around for a few days and pay attention to what he or she reacts to. Make notes to ensure that you don’t forget about these triggers. You should also carry a camera around so that you can capture any funny tricks when they happen. Some of these tricks may only happen once, so be sure that you have the camera ready.

New Tricks
Just like people, cats will frequently repeat things that they have just learned. It might be a good idea to periodically teach your cat new tricks to see if he or she will do them when you aren’t around. You don’t need to teach your cat advanced tricks. Just keep teaching him or her common tricks to see what happens.

Not only might your cat repeat the trick without any prompting, but this tends to increase the chances of your cat doing tricks when you aren’t around. Try this out and see what happens.

Conclusion
Cats frequently do funny tricks when humans aren’t around. They might bounce around the house, fight with dogs or do other funny things that can get a lot of views on YouTube. At the same time, recording these tricks can take a lot of effort. Just try using the tips above, and you should be able to capture at least one funny trick.

Author Bio

Katelyn Roberts is a frequent contributor for NetQin. She writes on a wide variety of topics including technology,green living and entertainment

How The Bad Luck Black Cat Superstition Came About

Michael — Tue, 30 Oct 2012 23:56:58 +0000

Who among us has not at one time or another heard of the superstition that if a black cat crosses your path you will have bad luck? We hear people mention it in our personal lives or on TV shows (on one episode of Murder She Wrote dedicated to seventeenth-century witchcraft, a black cat passes before the sheriff and his deputy and the former says, “Not one word, Andy, not one word”).

But where exactly did this superstition come from? How did it originate? There is an interesting story—or rather, a bunch of stories—behind this myth, and they will be outlined below.

All Pictures From For the Love of Black Cats (Black Cat Appreciation Page on Facebook)

1) Witchcraft

The association of the black cat with evil is essentially of western and southern European origin. There, the animal has long been looked on as being the familiar of witches. In popular lore, the familiar (or familiar spirit) of a witch was a supernatural being that helped her to perform her magic. This being would often take the form of an animal of some sort but was also capable of taking on a human form in order to spy on people. Shakespeare alludes to this belief in the very first scene of Macbeth, where in line eight the first witch announces, “I come, Graymalkin!” The name refers to a black cat—or rather, a gray one, as is evident from its first half. Malkin was a nickname for Matilda or Maud and was often used as a name for a cat. (Paddock, in the next line, is also the name of a familiar, specifically a toad.) During the Middle Ages black cats were often massacred. Such activity may have led to the Black Death by enabling rats whose numbers would otherwise have been held in check to multiply.

The Pilgrims who came to the shores of America believed very strongly in black cats as the servants of witches, describing them as “part demon and part sorcery.” They imposed severe penalties—sometimes even death—for anyone who was caught with a black cat in his possession.

2) Opposite beliefs

It is interesting to note that the association of the black cat with bad luck is not a universal one. To the contrary, the British and the Irish have long regarded them as symbols of good luck! The ancient Egyptians, too, held the black cat to be sacred—and they were, indeed, one of the first people to domesticate the cat. They revered the animal for its ability to hunt rats and other vermin. The goddess Bastet was traditionally portrayed as a black cat. (Theriomorphic depictions of gods were common in Egypt and many other ancient societies—Anubis, for instance, was conventionally depicted as having the head of a jackal.) Her worship began early in the country’s history, during the Second Dynasty (c. 2890 to 2686 B.C.E.). Herodotus tells us that the most popular and most important festival held by the Egyptians of his day was the one that honored Bastet in her temple in the city of Bubastis, near the Nile delta.

The ancient Celts had a myth that a fairy called Cat Sidhe who could take the form of a black cat. They believed that if a saucer of milk was left out for him to drink he would bless that household with good fortune—but if they did not, he would cause the all the milk in their cows to go dry! There was also a local belief that Cat Sidhe was a witch who could transform into a cat and back eight times and that if she did so a ninth time, she would remain a cat forever. This belief, in fact, may be where we got our old saying that “a cat has nine lives.”

England’s King Charles I had a black cat that he kept under constant guard. It fell ill and died the day before his execution. Fishermen in Yorkshire believed black cats would ensure a profitable fishing trip. Other peoples who have held the black cat to be a good luck charm include pirates and the Japanese.

These are the stories behind the superstition. PLEASE protect your cats by keeping them in on Halloween, and support shelters who do not sell black cats around Halloween.

Author Bio

Rebecca Brown is an avid blogger for NQ Mobile in the Reuters, keeping people protected when using their mobile devices.

Reduce Your Cat’s Carbon Paw Print!

Michael — Sun, 22 Jul 2012 18:43:24 +0000

So we are going green now? Does that mean no more Fancy Feast?

Like any pet owner, you want to give your pet everything you can to offer them a pampered life, but you are also aware that so many pet products are not necessarily good for the environment. However, there are ways that you can help the environment without changing any of the creature comforts that you want to give your cat.

From toys and sustainable cat gardens to food and cleaning habits: here are some green tips for offsetting your kitty’s carbon paw print:

Green Cat Toys and Gifts

When it comes to keeping your cat amused, you might want to think about making your own toys and gifts for your moggy. Use old carpets and recycled wood for a scratching post. Cats love strings so you could also take old rope or twine and tie some felt or feathers to the end.

If you want to buy a toy, look for options that are made from recycled materials or sustainable fibres like hemp.

Green Cat Food and Cleaning

Just like you trying to avoid junk food for your own body, the same should go for how you approach feeding your cat. Stick to green cat food that is often labelled as organic as it will not contain any pesticides, artificial preservatives, genetically engineered ingredients, artificial flavourings or hormones. This natural food will help your cat’s health by providing them with choice, natural ingredients to help their fur, digestion, and overall well-being. Typically, the manufacturers that make organic cat food also use processes that do not impact heavily on the environment.

Kitty litter is one of the worst environmental damaging culprits out there not to mention it doesn’t necessarily do a good job of covering up a stinky litter box. Be sure to avoid the clumping clay kitty litter because it is made from carcinogenic silica materials that harm the air as well as your cat through chronic ingestion of the dust from the litter. There is some great natural, biodegradable kitty litter now available. Look for cat litter made from ground pine, wheat, or corn. It actually absorbs more than the typical clay litters, which makes it more effective and less likely to create an unattractive smell.

While your cat may not be the most agreeable when it comes to bathing, you can buy some gentle, green cleaning products that will make the job smarter thanks to no harsh chemicals– but not necessarily easier!

Offsetting Kitty’s Carbon Paw Print

One way to keep that fuzzy that owns your heart plus help offset any carbon paw print they leave no matter how small is to start a garden just for kitty to enjoy with herbs and flowers that are safe for them, including the old favourite, cat nip. By growing plants and flowers, you are contributing to the environment rather than taking away from it, giving your cat a healthy and safe playground, and avoiding buying plastic toys.

BYLINE:

This article was written on behalf of Ecover Direct, a company dedicated to eco-friendly living and cleaning. Check out Ecover’s store for a range of natural cleaning products.

How to Grow and Harvest Your Own Catnip

Michael — Mon, 18 Jun 2012 03:13:15 +0000

If you're a cat owner, you're probably familiar with catnip, a perennial herb belonging to the mint family--and one that's completely irresistible to cats. Catnip has the unique ability to hypnotize cats--immersing them in states of bliss that humans can only stand back and chuckle at. Although catnip is readily available and can be found at a variety of supermarkets, farmers markets, and pet stores, the plant is so easy to keep that you might want to consider growing and harvesting it yourself. If you'd like to provide your cats with a never ending supply of fresh or dried catnip, read on. Here's how you can grow and harvest your own catnip at home

Buy Seeds or Starter Plants

You can start growing your own catnip by purchasing either seeds or starter plants. Since catnip grows quickly, both options are good ones. A local garden center would most likely have either one--just be sure that you select common catnip and not one of the many ornamental varieties.

Plant Seeds

If you're starting out with seeds, gently press seeds into several small soil-filled pots. Water your catnip seeds just enough to moisten the soil throughout the pots and then cover the pots with a layer of plastic wrap to seal in the moisture and keep them warm. Once you notice that your seeds are beginning to sprout, remove the plastic wrap and place the pots somewhere where they will receive at least six hours of full sunlight--either outdoors or on a sunny window-sill. As long as catnip is exposed to full sun, it can be grown indoors all year long.

Using Starter Plants

Starter plants can be planted outdoors right away in the spring, as long as there's no indication of frost in the forecast. Since catnip reaches heights of three to four feet or more and can spread rather quickly, you'll need adequate space in which to plant it. If you want to plant it in an outdoor garden or alongside your home, find a spot that receives full sun and plant seedlings about 12 to 16" apart. If you don't have enough space in your yard or garden to grow catnip, plant it in large pots that you can keep on your deck or patio. Water your catnip plants regularly, and make sure they are left undisturbed by any neighborhood cats--or your own, for that matter. If you're having trouble keeping cats from bothering your plants, cover them with a mesh screen until they're strong enough to make it on their own.

Photo Credit Pinterest

Maintain Your Plants

Catnip doesn’t typically attract many pests, but it can happen. If you discover that pests are a problem, you can spray your plants with a safe, homemade solution of dishwashing soap and water. Add two to three tablespoons of dishwashing soap per gallon of water, and spray the tops and bottoms of the leaves with the solution every other day for a couple of weeks to keep pests away.

Along with minimal pest control and frequent waterings, prune your plants as needed to encourage leaf growth. You can do this by removing excess flower buds as they continue to blossom.

Harvesting Catnip

Once you're plants have reached heights of 10 to 12", you can begin to harvest them. The best time of day to harvest your plants is either in the late morning or in the early afternoon, when morning dew has fully evaporated from the leaves. To harvest plants cut stems at their bases, never removing more than half of the plant's stems at one time. Fresh leaves can be given to your cats, or you can dry them by tying the stems up in bunches and hanging them upside down in a dark area such as a basement cellar or pantry. Once dried, place leaves in airtight containers or baggies, storing them in a cool, dry spot for future use.

How to Use Catnip

Cats love fresh catnip leaves--and don't be surprised if those fresh leaves are completely consumed in matter of mere moments. If you have a large supply of dried catnip, you can fill handmade pillows and toys with it to make it last a little longer. Small toys filled with catnip can provide your cats with hours of entertainment--and they make great gifts for all of the other special felines in your life.

You don't have to be an expert gardener to grow and harvest your own catnip. With some time, patience, and minimal effort, you'll be able to provide your cats with an endless supply of one of their all-time favorite treats.

Guest post from Payton Price. Payton writes for TermLifeInsurance.org.

5 Unique Cat Gifts

Michael — Tue, 29 May 2012 22:49:12 +0000

According to the ASPCA, over 62 percent of American homes have pets, and cat people are some of the most dedicated pet owners on the planet. Some of us are even proud to claim the label of crazy cat ladies (or gentlemen). Showering our felines with gifts is a great way to show our affection for all the things they bring to our lives every day, and cat lovers of all kinds have begun their own companies to help others express their adoration as well. There are as many kinds of gifts for cats and cat lovers as there are kinds of cats.

Cat Trees

One of the most creative and interesting area of cat gifts. Styles range from the ultra-sleek and modern to actual living trees with platforms for kitties to sleep, scratch, or hide. Their complexities also vary widely, from levels and multiple platforms that can take up half a room from floor to ceiling, or simple bi or tri-levels suitable for a single cat or a smaller space. Amazon.com offers an excellent way to see what’s out there, and CatsPlay.com provides dozens of varieties, displayed by style, color, price, and more. A particularly interesting selection of live, growing cat trees can be found at PetTreeHouses.com.

Cat Houses

Not only canines and naughty husbands get their own houses. Cats naturally enjoy snuggling up in dark, private hidey holes too. They can be as simple as a padded or carpeted box to a top-quality piece of furniture – room for kitty beneath, and an end table above, for example. Condos are often an integral part of cat trees. Check out PetCo or PetSmart for great ideas of what is available.

Catnips Rugs and Mats

Every kitty has a catnip toy or two, or gets some of the fresh stuff sprinkled on favorite objects now and then, but how about a nice rug or mat to roll around in or take a nap on? These can be found in sizes ranging from a potholder to a bedspread. Etsy is a great source for creative variations of these items, and FeralCare.org offers a wonderful Heat Reflecting Catnip Mat that provides a great toy and a snuggly warm place to sleep, all proceeds of which are donated to a shelter for feral cats. Check them out at Feral Care

Cat Furniture Built to Order

Five Pet Place is a fascinating service that allows cat lovers to design their own cat feeding areas, litter pans and boxes, cat trees, furniture and beds by choosing styles and finishes that match their home’s décor. These top-quality products add class to any home, while offering top-notch play, sleep, food, and waste areas for your cat. The owner and designer even tests products with his own team of “experts” – his own brood of five felines!

Funky Cat Clothes

It’s not just Chihuahua and Terrier owners who like to dress their babies in frilly clothes. There’s a whole world of cat clothes out there too, from the sleek and chic to the fluffy and ruffly. While Etsy is a wonderful place to find all kinds of clothing for every taste, most of it handmade, beautiful pieces can be found in any pet store, TJ Maxx, or other discount department stores. Don’t forget to check your local thrift shop or Goodwill as well. Don’t forget – even if an outfit is labeled for a dog doesn’t mean it won’t be perfect for your cat!

Your cat deserves the best of everything, and unique gifts that keep them happy give us as much satisfaction as it does them. Keeping an eye open on Craig’s List, Etsy, craft fairs or flea markets can yield some of the most interesting and special gifts for your cat or cat-owning friend.

Author Bio

Denise Hill is an avid blogger for NetQin, writing on a variety of topics.

Unique Cat Play Areas - Pinterest

Unique Play Houses Built For Cats- Pinterest

Unique Cat Play Ideas

Unique Cat Play Ideas- Pinterest

Can You Believe This Crystal Diamond Collar Costs Only $40 Dollars?

Michael — Fri, 25 May 2012 02:53:06 +0000

Cat luxuries have become an ever growing market. You wouldn't find a cat or dog sweater 20 years ago in stores, but today there is a large industry based around pampered pets. Everything from pet apparel, to pet jewelry and everything between is marketed heavily. You can find specialty collars, leashes,cat trees, wood pet condos, furniture, luxury pet beds and feeders. A select few companies that cater around luxury goods are doing very well on ebay as people get tired of the cheap products from China.

(Above Picture - Crystal Cat Collars From Mutts And Moggies )

Sex symbol; Paris Hilton, named one of the "100 Hottest Women of All-Time" by Men's Health catapulted the luxury pet industry by appearing in hundreds of magazines with her toy dog. More so, in 2003, when she co-starred with socialite counterpart Nicole Richie in the Fox reality series The Simple Life, her dog was often seen in the show showing women it was glamorous to have a dog all dressed up in dresses and jewelry.

Hilton's love for dogs led her to create an apparel line for dogs called Little Lily by Paris Hilton, with some of the proceeds going to benefit animal rescue. "I have 17 dogs and I like to dress them, so I started designing this clothing line and it's really cute, like dresses and jeans — everything you can imagine for humans, but for dogs," she said in an interview during Super Bowl XLII festivities.

In fact, Paris Hilton’s pups have mansion of their own. Hilton shared photos of her new designer doghouse on Twitter. Paris's pet playhouse has two floors, and a closet to stash the many outfits she has purchased for her small pets. Hilton's dogs; Tinkerbell, Marilyn Monroe, Prince Baby Bear, Harajuku, Dolce and Prada live the good life! Designer Faye Resnick designed the pets home to resemble Hilton's own home. Miniature Philippe Starck furniture, heat and air conditioning come at a price of $325,000. Such extravagance doesn't sit well with the many people in the U.S. struggling to hold on to their homes. Who spends that amount of money on their pets? You would be surprised!

While some people don't mind dressing their cats up in dresses and boots, other people cannot shake their heads thinking how ridiculous it looks. I was one of those people! Paris Hilton's dogs were a source of laughter for me. Though, fast forward years later, and I cannot help but marvel at how my own cute adorable cats look in their fall sweaters. So I am chocking words of regret. If you cannot see yourself buying the lavish pet clothes, consider a unique dressed up collar. Collars are something every dog or cat has, so why not dress your cat up with a little bling. There is everything from jeweled collars to fancy, yet modern engraved leather collars. There is something for every taste. Check out these diamond necklaces that your cat can wear, only costing you a whopping $40 dollars!

Diamond Cat Collars From Legends Falls Crystal Cat Collars, Essex, United Kingdom

You Won’t Feel Ashamed Of This Cat Scratcher

Michael — Fri, 25 May 2012 00:10:02 +0000

If you love antique furniture, then this cat scratcher bench, although over $200 may be worth it to you. It is hard to find nice looking cat accessories for your home that you don't want to hide behind the door. Consider this cat bench that functions as a bench and a cat scratcher.

Actually, this bench is fashioned after the highly sought after curule chairs. Curule chairs are very rare to find inexpensively, and are often seen apart of Empire decorating. Many of these French pieces were inspired pieces from Etruscan artifacts from Egypt. In ancient Egypt, curule chairs were designed for the
officials of the highest government dignitaries. It was originally made of
ivory, without arms and it was usually inlaid with ivory and precious metals. It
served a seat for the positioned in power, and later the emperor himself.

Elle Decor featured French Decorator Frédéric Méchiche's neoclassical apartment straight out of Versailles. The room was bathed in soft grays with exquisite architectural details. Marble columns, and grand gilded moldings are paired with ornate chandelier and extravagant art. Geometrical patterns adorn the floor, and dark saturated paint colors with hues of blue and gray are chosen for the walls. Frédéric Méchiche's work originally was published in ELLE DECORATION France, and in the special issue of Elle Decor January February 2012. If you look into these pictures you will see this very high end neoclassical chair upholstered in a green silky fabric with the base painted in white.

French Style Decorating- Frédéric Méchiche Elle Decoration France

Baroque Bench - High End French Styled Furniture

Inviting Home sells a wonderful baroque beechwood bench with hand-rubbed antiqued light walnut finish and gold leaf accents; 31-1/2"W x 18-1/2"D x 26"H; hand-crafted in Italy for $2650.00

Curved Accent Stool - French Egyptian Stylings

The Curved Accent Stool from Stein World is great as an extra seat in the home. Small and convenient to move this stool is great for a variety of rooms. The stool has a warm wood finish with nail head trim along the fabric. Stein World sells this bench for $208

A Video About Dry Cat Food That Every Cat Owner Should Watch

Michael — Fri, 18 May 2012 19:37:17 +0000

Struvite crystals are also referred to as triple phosphate (magnesium ammonium phosphate), and when several crystals join together to form stones, they can become life-threatening to the cat. These stones can range in shape and size, and when they block the urinary tract, they can quickly lead to kidney failure.

Crystals can form in a cat's bladder and/or urethra, causing irritation, bleeding, infection and/or blockage. These symptoms are lumped together in a condition called FLUTD (Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease). Complete blockage of the urethra can cause death within 72 hours, if not treated.

What To Watch For:

-Very frequent litter box use,

-Licking urethral area excessively,

-Straining to urinate,

-Crying in pain while urinating

-Urinating in various areas of the home,

-Blood in the urine,

-Lack of appetite

It is very interesting to know that struvite crystals started happening exactly with the widespread use of dry commercial cat foods. These cat food diets became popular in the 1970's, and since then, thousands of cats have been subjected to this very painful and unnecessary condition.

It is very important to know that these 'foods' were not developed for the optimal health of cats. They are convenient for the owner and cheaper than meat cat food. In addition, very profitable for commercial pet food manufacturers.

Struvite crystals happen when a lack of moisture is found in a pets diet. The urine becomes too concentrated and too alkaline. An alkaline environment in very concentrated urine predisposes struvite formation. Cats are not natural water drinkers, and derive most of its moisture from its prey. Consequently, the domestic cat which is fed a diet of dry foods is chronically dehydrated.

The best line of defense is making a change in your cats diet now.

When the cat consumes a balanced, natural diet of raw meat, the urine can maintain a more natural pH. The water content of wet meat is typically 75 – 80% moisture, which creates a more dilute urine, and struvite formation, does not occur.

How Can You Test Your Cats PH Level?

They say that if your body is in an alkaline state, that cancer cannot grow. That is quite a statement! Fast food, and processed foods rather than natural vegetables and fruits cause our human bodies acidic, and most of our problems stem from where our PH balance sits. The same with cats. Although the higher range may vary under certain circumstances, the expert consensus seems to be from 6.0 to 6.5. (The lower the pH, the more acidic the urine.) A pH above this range can lead the growth of struvites (magnesium ammonium phosphate crystals). A pH lower than 6.0 can cause the formation of calcium oxalate crystals. You can buy 80 strips on Amazon for $12 Simply take a spoon of siliva, and dip the bottom part of the strip in the siliva. Within minutes the test strip changes a color. On the back of the package shows the range of colors which will give you you or your cats PH number.

Grand Marie-Antoinette Pet Beds

Michael — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 23:05:39 +0000

Prestige Houses is a Toulouse-based company that makes historic reproduction dog (and cat) beds inspired from designs from Marie-Antoinette and Louis XVI in the 18th century.Prestige director Pierre Zordan uses specially trained upholsterers, wood-carvers and decorative painters to build canopy beds in the à la Polonaise style that Marie-Antoinette favored. They also make a restrained Roman-columned cat box with Marie-Antoinette coat-of-arms carved roses. For more information about Prestige Houses, go here. All pictures and information gathered from Apartment Therapy Blog

Are you a lover of French design, if so, these canopy pet beds are something you don't see to often making them a unique buy. They are priced around the $150 dollar mark. Not only are they beautiful to look at, they are also very practical. These enclosed canopies will give your pet the feeling of security that only a safe "den" can provide. Easy to assemble without tools. Covers can be removed and machine washed. The inner-pillow is zippered in case the fiber ever needs changing. The soft bumper pads protect the pet and even provide a soft resting place for their heads at the front door. Now available in 15 designer fabrics to enhance your home decor. A great value. Measures 27" x 17". Please NOTE that a $25 handling fee will be charged for this oversized item

2 inch thick foam bumper pads surround your pet to simulate the safety of a den and provide a soft place to lean.
A 2 inch thick mattress provides a sturdy base for your pet to rest on.
The super-soft pillow, stuffed with 16ozs. of high-quality acrylic fiber, makes your pet comfortable.
All bedding is machine washable.

The Best 6 Products From New York Dog

Michael — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 22:21:53 +0000

The Best Pet Products From New York Dogs. Consider any of these dog products, cat products.....

1. New York Dog Striped Canvas Cabana Dog Bed in Brown or Pink Stripe. Measures 18" x 14" x17.5" Collapsible design for easy storage $85

2. New York Dog Fisherman Cable Knit Hooded Sweater - Gray or Pink $8.99 Comes in Small, Medium or Large and X Large -Sizing (measure from base of neck to tail for best fit) XSmall - 9" to 11" length, Small - 12" to 13" length, Medium - 14" to 15" length, Large - 16" to 17" length, XLarge - 18" to 20" length

3. New York Dog Mohawk Hooded Sweater - Each sweater features soft knit jacquard pattern with yarn fringe on the hood and back. Sizing (measure from base of neck to tail for best fit) XSmall - 9" to 11" length, Small - 12" to 13" length, Medium - 14" to 15" length, Large - 16" to 17" length, XLarge - 18" to 20" length

4. New York Dog Brown Strip Cabana Dog Bed House 18" X 14" X 17.5"

5. New York Dog Nordic Fair Isle Knit Pattern Mock Neck Sweater

6. New York Dog Pink Stripe Canvas Snuggle Bed - Large $65

Quality Carpentry Wood Pet Products

Michael — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 21:10:55 +0000

Cherry Dog Bed Pet Bed Crafted from Solid Cherry Wood - Dog Bed for Small Dogs - Top Rated - Best Quality Available - For Dog or cats! $109

Carefully designed and built by craftsmen in the United States from solid American Cherry Hardwood, the Broad Bay dog bed is created using heirloom quality furniture crafting techniques. Multiple coats of clear finish protect the cherry from damage to preserve the beauty of this piece for years to come.

Solid wood moldings created in their woodworking shop along with dovetail joinery make this perhaps the finest solid wood pet bed available. For our pets that give us so much and for our homes in which we live and take pride - Broad Bay Fine Wood Pet Accessories will surprise and delight family and friends for years to come.

Product Features

•Dovetail Joinery, handmade molding and details
•Solid Cherry Construction
•Made in the United States of America
•Multi-coat clear top finish
•Immediate Shipping - Satisfaction Guaranteed

Cherry Pet Feeder Crafted from Solid Cherry Wood - Elevated Dog Dish Stand Holder For Small Dogs - Top Rated - Best Quality Available - Best Pet Bowl Stand For Dog Food or Cat Food! $99

17.2 x 9.5 x 5.2 inches ; 5.2 pounds

Luxurious Pet Tent Beds

Michael — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 20:51:23 +0000

Pet Tent Small Dog or Cat Bed - Sugarplum Princess $139

Pet Tent Small Dog or Cat Bed - Cafe Au Lait $139

Dick Mueller created Pet Tents long before pets became the huge market that they represent today. In 1962, with one simple thought in mind – “that animals like to live in dens” Have you ever noticed how cats gravitate to an empty shopping bag, snuggling inside, safe in a cocoon? For centuries, dogs and cats slept in dens,small places that provided warmth and protection from predators. Even today those denning instincts remain strong and a Pet Tent provides the perfect environment for your pet. The raised floor protects from cold drafts, and the tent shields them from harsh lights and loud noises creating a sanctuary where your pet feels safe, secure and special. In addition to a protective retreat for your pet, Pet Tents fit beautifully into any décor, from outrageous to elegant.

The original Pup Tents sold well through many of America’s finest department stores: Abercrombie & Fitch, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdale’s, Hammacher Schlemmer, etc.

When President Lyndon Johnson received a great deal of negative press for lifting his pet beagles by their ears, Dick dispatched two very special Pet Tents to the White House. He never heard from the beagles but the President’s daughters wrote “the dogs were very grateful for the tents.” In 2000, a very special, custom made Pet Tent was dispatched to Barney, the canine-in-residence at the White House with George W Bush.

Luxury Pet Tent Beds

Luxury Pet Beds - Princess Bed $139

Measuring 21" Diameter at the base and 29" High at the crown this sumptuous little dog tent is a great indoor home for a toy breed dog or cat. The tent made of white nylon fabric and features a billowing eave of the same material. The eave is secured by five pink ribbons,which are tied in bows. Accessories include a white wood spire and a pink pillow that matches the pink bows. Excellent quality and craftsmanship, strong foam body maintains its shape, the cover made of durable knitted fabric is soft and comfortable, fully removable and machine washable. Your pet can snuggle in the concave shape for comfort and warmth.

Original Cat Paintings in Oil Paint

Michael — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 20:27:12 +0000

German artist Angela Franke is an exceptional painter. This artist produces masterpieces with paint. She says that painting was always an integral part of her life since her childhood, and is especially motivated to paint seeing animals. Painting went from a hobby to her profession. Check out her paintings at her ebay store.

Oriental Luxury Pet Beds

Michael — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 20:08:19 +0000

Pagoda Pet Bed From Chinoiserie Chic Blog

Custom Dog or Cat Bed From from Dog Palaces: Designer Beds for Pampered Pooches.

Dog Palaces shows that almost anything can be made or converted into an elaborate pad for your pampered pooch: coffee tables, snack bars, doll beds, end tables, toolboxes, antique cupboards, divans. Or how about diva digs that imitate San Francisco Victorian homes, grand hotels, oriental pagodas, French and Turkish palaces? Mugsy, Maggie, Marty, or Maxwell might just have a preference for one of these fanciful designs inhabited by their canine cousins. Here are great ideas for practically everyone on how to come up with innovative, creative homes for your furry friends. You adore your dogs and want them to be comfortable and happy. But you might be surprised at how much personal pleasure and joy you will get from custom designing their homes, matching them to your décor and style, and letting your imagination and creativity go a little berserk.

"This book is a terrific idea," says a confirmed lab lover. "What a nice break from the standard red-barn painted doghouse, or the pet cushion in
the corner. And it was refreshing to see pets that don't have to chew up their bedding before they lie down."

ATELIER CHERRY PETS- Wonderful Handcrafted Beds For Your Pets

Merry Pet Tropical Island with Cushion - Small Bamboo Pet Bed $77 Cushion cover removable for easy washing. 23 x 18 x 12 inches This exotic pet bed provides both a spacious sleeping corner for your beloved dog or cat and a functional drawer to store all of its belongings

Make The Next Trip To The Vet Easier For Your Cat

Michael — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 18:38:36 +0000

If you have a cat, you probably already know that cats are homebodies. Unlike dogs, who regularly go on walks and drives and new adventures, cats tend to stay at home, slinking around corners and gazing out windows. So when it’s time to take your cat to the vet, be patient with its fears and lash outs. In addition to being examined by a stranger, your favorite feline must face the car, a waiting room full of other animals, and an entirely new world of foreign sounds and smells. Just imagine taking a rocket to Mars to be inspected by aliens, and you’ll get a sense akin to what your sweet kitten feels with every trip to the vet. So how do you calm Whiskers’ nerves the next time he needs a check-up? The following is a list of tips for making your cat’s trip to the vet smoother for both you and your precious pet.

Prepare your cat for the outside world.

While your cat probably prefers lounging indoors, it’s a good idea to introduce fresh air into its daily schedule. Cat leashes are becoming more and more common and are good ways to adjust your cat to the great outdoors. Your cat likely only rides in the car on the way to and from the vet. Regular car rides will relieve some of the negative associations your cat has with the car. By acquainting your cat with the outdoor world and the car, you are reducing the stress of unfamiliarity on the way to the vet.

Prepare your cat’s carrier.

Much like the car, don’t let your cat associate its carrier with the vet. Make the carrier available for your cat’s everyday use. Encourage your cat to spend time in the carrier, by fashioning it with a pillow, a toy, and catnip.

Find the perfect vet.

Of course, you want to find a vet who is fully certified and has passed the veterinary board and NAVLE exams. Beyond that, reading online reviews is a great way to get to know the local vets in your area. Try to call different offices to get a sense of their customer service; seek out professionals who exhibit patience and are ready to answer all of your questions. It is ideal if you can find an office with a cat specialist.

Keep your cat calm.

Try to keep your cat away from other animals in the waiting room, particularly hyperactive dogs. Spoil your cat with lots of love. Petting, treats, and soft cooing all help to ease your cat’s nerves. Stay with your cat for the duration of the visit, unless otherwise instructed by the veterinarian. While some owners can get uncomfortable by vaccinations and firm vet inspections, it is important for your cat to have a familiar face (and scent) it can count on.

If you follow these tips, both you and your cat are sure to have a more pleasant experience the next time you visit the vet. And without having to worry about your cat’s nerves, you’ll be able to focus on asking important health questions and getting the most out of your visit.

What To Consider When Adopting A Cat

Michael — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 20:08:37 +0000

Adopting a cat is one of the most rewarding things you can do. Cats can provide years of fun, companionship and affection. But, there are some things that you should consider before pursuing an adoption. Cats have a reputation as independent, virtually care-free pets. While cats do have an independent streak, they are anything but care-free. They also can be more expensive to own than you anticipate. Below are some of the things you should think about before adopting a cat.

Cats Usually Live Longer Than Dogs

Cats that are well cared for typically live up to twenty years according to the ASPCA . That's wonderful for people who value their cat as a friend, companion and playmate. But that also means that you have to commit to your cat for the long-term. Many people get a kitten or new cat and enjoy it for a few weeks and then become bored with it. If you're going to adopt a cat you need to understand that owning a cat entails many trips to the vet. You will have to clean and change the litter box countless times over the course of the cat's life. Some people find that this unpleasant task becomes less and less tolerable as time passes.

Cats Cost Money

First, you have to pay adoption or purchase fees. If you adopt a cat from a shelter or rescue group, the fees will be minimal, but that is just the beginning of your investment. Cats need regular vet visits to stay healthy. Cats need to keep their shots up to date. In order to prevent urinary tract infections and to provide your cat with the proper nutrients, you need to buy high quality cat food instead of the cheap, cut-rate cat food available in most retail stores. Good cat food can cost $40 or more a month, but it will reduce your vet bills over the long haul. Add up the cat food, vet visits, shots and other expenses over a cat's lifetime and you're looking at a substantial financial investment.

Cats Require Time and Attention

Cats are famous for their independent attitudes, but don't mistake their apparent independence as an indication that cats don't need a significant amount of attention from you. In fact, you must play with your cat every day, pet her every day and brush her frequently. Most authorities recommend that you devote a least an hour total each day to interacting with your cat. You can spend this time in small chunks, but to keep your cat happy and well-adjusted, playtime with your cat should total 60 minutes or more each day. Some vets recommend that anyone considering adopting a cat should consider adopting two cats. Two cats will entertain each other and provide mutual companionship. Another thing to keep in mind is that nearly all cats shed. Many cats cough up hairballs no matter what you do to prevent them. As they get older, cats sometimes get sick. The upshot is that you will almost certainly have to spend some time cleaning up after your cat.

Cats Must be Trained

Fortunately, cats pretty much train themselves to use litter boxes, but they still need to be trained regarding other things. If you don't want your cat on your counters and tables, you must train him to stay off. Cats must also be trained not to scratch furniture and carpeting and to scratch toys and scratching posts instead. All of this training requires a great deal of time and enormous patience. Some people declaw their cats to prevent them from scratching but many authorities recommend that cat owners not do this as the procedure is painful and leaves the cat virtually defenseless.

Introducing a New Cat Takes Time

If you already have a cat or dog, you can't simply bring the new cat home and turn him loose to get acquainted with your current pets. Instead, according to the Animal Behavior Society you must keep the new cat isolated in a place that he feels safe and gradually introduce him to his new housemates. Again, this process takes time, effort and patience.

The Bottom Line

It should be clear from the points above that there are some important factors to consider before adopting a cat. Cats require a significant time commitment and there are some costs involved in cat ownership. But most people find that a cat in the house is a pure joy. Owning a cat is a lot of fun and no other pet is more soothing and relaxing. For many people the above considerations are minor annoyances compared to the happiness that a cat brings into their lives. But if you look over each of these considerations and decide that any or all of them are more than you would want to deal with for more than a decade, then it might be best that you not adopt a cat.

Author bio

Stacy Gianakura is an avid blogger and writes for Guest Blogs Galore.

Brass Stamped Chic Cat Id Tags

Michael — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 22:25:02 +0000

Cat or Dog Name Tag Disc in Gold Large - BUY 1 GET 1 FREE From Enind's Emporium

French Cat Beds

Michael — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 19:36:07 +0000

CAT BED PALACE Pet House Leather Carved Solid Wood New From Decorate With Daria. Darlia has a number of beautiful interior furniture that is high end and very classy.

Cat Food Container Gift Ideas

Michael — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 02:51:45 +0000

Founder Carol Perkins modeled with Ford New York, Paris and London, and has appeared in everything from Vogue to Harper's Bazaar to Victoria's Secret. Then, Carol became home bound, while recovering from a life threatening battle with a rare brain tumor, Carol started creating dog beds, toys and robes for friends as a form of therapy. The popularity of these products led to the launch of Harry Barker, named in honor of Carol’s sheltie Harry Barker. Harry Barker products are especially known for their dog gifts and storage, although they do carry some unique storage for cats. Especially cute is the Leopard cat food storage which can brighten up your shelves in your pantry. They carry a number of cat and dog beds, leashes, and pet bowls. Silver Small Cat Food Storage From Harry Barker, Cat Food Containers in Leopard Prints

Deshedding Tool: The Perfect Effective Tool For Deshedding Your Cat

Michael — Sun, 11 Sep 2011 19:28:16 +0000

Pictures confirm how well the FURminator works for deShedding your cat. The deshedding tool works quickly and easily grabs and removes loose and undercoat hair . The tool itself is a stainless steel 1.75-inch blade, and perfectly designed for shedding cats. This tool will eliminate hairballs, and reduces shedding up to 90 percent. Just check out the customer pictures posted below. They are mind blowing!

It is absolutely amazing how much hair this deshedding tool is able to remove from cats! The pictures below speak for themselves. Have you ever seen anything like this before?

If you have a major problem with shedding we encourage you to get this tool today. It works really, really well....

The Hottest Cat Gift Ideas For The Holidays

Michael — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 00:52:16 +0000

The holidays are fast approaching and this year there is a vast array of cat gift ideas to choose from. Whether you are looking for cat gifts for your favorite companion or you are searching for that perfect gift for a cat lover, the truth is that Amazon.com has some truly unique items that would make unforgettable gifts. The holidays are a time to show your appreciation to those that you love, and this year there are more ways than ever to do that.

The following are some of the hottest cat gift ideas for the holidays....

Bergan Turbo Scratcher Cat Toy - Wouldn't you rather have your cat scratch up something other than your precious furniture? The Bergan Turbo Scratcher is a very safe toy that will provide hours of exercise and entertainment for your cat. It comes equipped with catnip, a ball, and a replaceable scratch pad. Place the ball in the circular track, and watch your cat bat it around and around endlessly.

Outdoor Feline Funhouse - Cat Enclosure Tent - Do you ever want to take your cat with you on a trip but just don't know how it can be comfortable for your cat? Well, the Outdoor Feline Funhouse is the answer! The Outdoor Feline Funhouse is a comfortable outdoor cat enclosure in which your indoor feline or other small pet can enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. This portable containment system can be placed on your deck or lawn and can even be taken on long trips. It is also great for camping and RVing with pets! The Outdoor Feline Funhouse is a roomy one-piece enclosed unit that sets up instantly with NO ASSEMBLY REQUIRED, then folds quickly and easily to store flat in its own zippered carrying bag. How convenient is that?

Lil Kitty Gray Walking Meowing Cat- The Lil Kitty Walking Meowing Cat walks along the floor, nods her head, wags her tail and meows like a cat. Lil Kitty can provide hours of fun for the entire family. The following is how one customer on Amazon recently described LIl Kitty: "This little kitty is so precious! She meows and her little mouth moves and she walks and her little tail moves. Almost like having a little kitten again! So life like and my little puppy Sadie loves to watch it. I'm still a kid at heart and love to watch the enjoyment it brings my little dog Sadie. Such good quality at a very reasonable price."

Omega Paw Self-Cleaning Litter Box - Cat owners LOVE self-cleaning litter boxes. The Omega Paw self-cleaning litter box is ideal for big cats or multiple-cat households. This large roll-away litter box quickly self-cleans, while controlling dust and containing odors. The unit's internal mechanism deposits the clumped waste into the pullout waste tray for easy disposal. The system works only with clumping litter, and the waste tray separates clumped waste from clean litter, so clean litter is never thrown away. That is a great thing! The litter box makes it easy to provide the cat not only with a clean litter box, but also with a lot of privacy due to the covered pan design. And what cat doesn't like a little privacy? The litter box also helps save a good bit of money - no more scoops, liners, or filters to buy. This is a gift that any cat owner would love.

Nursing Nina Cat - Nursing Nina Cat is an ideal gift for children who love cats. Kids simply adore this unique soft toy which celebrates the joy of caring for little ones. The kittens actually attach to their mother with magnets, but can also scamper off for their own adventures. This is one gift that little children (particularly little girls) will not be disappointed with. If you have a little girl who loves cats, Nursing Nina Cat would be an ideal holiday gift for her.

10 Commandments For Pet Owners

Michael — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 21:08:58 +0000

(Ernest Bieler (1863-1948) - Portrait of Edouard Rod, 1909)

1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful.

2. Give me time to understand what you want of me.

3. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being.

4. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainment, but
I have only you.

5. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me.

6. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it.

7. Before you hit me, before you strike me, remember that I could hurt you, and yet, I choose not to bite you.

8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I'm not getting the right
food, I have been in the sun too long, or my heart might be getting old or weak.

9. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too, will grow old.

10. On the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is
easier for me if you are there, because I love you so.

Take a moment today to thank God for your pets. Enjoy and take good care of them. Life would be a much duller, less joyful experience
without God's critters.

Now please pass this on to other pet owners. We do not have to wait for Heaven, to be surrounded by hope, love, and joyfulness.

It is here on earth and has four legs!

Cat catches the daily bus for four years

Michael — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 12:27:34 +0000

Casper, which is 12 years old, boards the No3 service at 10.55am from outside his home in Plymouth, Devon, and travels the entire 11-mile route before returning home about an hour later. On the route, the cat passes an historic dockyard and naval base, a city centre, several suburbs and the city's red light district. Susan Finden, 65, a care worker who is Casper's owner, said: "Casper has always disappeared for hours at a time but I never understood where he was going. "I called him Casper because he had a habit of vanishing like a ghost. But then some of the drivers told me he had been catching the bus. "I couldn't believe it at first, but it explains a lot. He loves people and we have a bus stop right outside our house so that must be how he got started - just following everyone on. Read more of the article here

Welcome To Cat Gift!

Michael — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 18:00:27 +0000

(Painting John White Alexander)

We are extremely excited to be launching this new site! We hope that it will be a warm and welcoming home for those who love their cats. We will be featuring cat articles, cat videos, cat pictures and the very best cat information that we can find. In addition, we will be featuring the very best gifts for cats, along with the very best gifts for those who love cats.

Once again, welcome to Cat Gift, and we hope that you enjoy your stay. If you have any suggestions for us please feel free to leave a comment on how we can improve.