Any cat owner will tell you, cats are wonderful pets to have around. However, that same owner can also tell you that one of the downsides is needing to deal with their petís toilet business.
But that should not be a drawn out problem if you take the time and proper care in training your cat to use the litter box.
Before any training should commence, make sure you have the right litter box. Choose one that is made of durable plastic for easy washing. It should also be deep enough to contain just a little less than 2 inches of litter.
Do not think that by putting more litter in the box will mean fewer times you would have to change it. Your cat will very likely refuse a soiled box even if thereís a lot of litter in it.
Cat litter comes in different varieties of grades and scents. However, the benefits of scented litter only applies to the pet owners. In fact, cats dislike scented litter because it seems unnatural to them. They will very likely reject eliminating in the box and go somewhere else.
The kind of litter grade your pet will prefer varies with each one, but it is observed that cats are particularly fond of smaller grades. Perhaps this is because smaller grains make the litter softer.
Next, place litter boxes in areas where your cat usually soils. You are building on the catís association of places and activities. Eventually, you may move the litter box around when your pet has gotten used to eliminating in the box.
Now that you have a good litter box set up, itís time to teach your pet to use it.
Cats usually do their business after a meal or a nap. So take note of these times. Before feeding take 10-15 minutes to play with your pet.
Allow about 15 minutes for the meal and clear up leftovers after that period. When the meal is finished, play with your cat for another 10-15 minutes, this time somewhere near the litter box.
Lead your cat to the box. Move the litter around with your hand to intrigue the cat with the texture of the litter, inviting it to step into it.
Encourage your pet once it steps inside, speaking to it in gentle tones. Make the cat feel that the box is a nice and comfortable place. Whether your cat soils in the box or not, be consistent with that tone. Eventually, your pet will like the litter box and do its business there.
Finally, be consistent and patient. Results may not come right away, but the training will pay off in time.
About the Author
Anita Hampton http://www.cat-health-tips.com
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Training Cats in Litter Box Use by Anita Hampton
Cats are neat animals. They are also intelligent enough to be trained. Given those characteristics, it will be very easy for owners to teach their pets. Here are some tips to guide owners in training their cats to use litter boxes.
1. Cleanliness is a must for cats.
Sometimes, even if the cat is already trained in using litter boxes, the owner usually finds his pet urinating or defecating just a few inches away from the litter box. The cat wants to use the litter box, and this can be proven by the proximity of the waste to the litter box. However, because the litter box is dirty, the cat opted not to use it.
The point here is that cats prefer to expel body wastes on clean areas. So make it a point to regularly check if the litter box is always clean and ready for your cat's use. The cleanliness of the area where the litter box is situated must also be checked frequently.
2. Cats do need privacy.
Do not expect your cat to defecate or urinate in busy areas because they also have the need for privacy. That is why most cats prefer to do their thing behind furniture, or in corners of rooms.
To solve the problem, place litter boxes in areas where cats would be less likely to be disturbed.
3. Cats must be comfortable in using their litter boxes.
Comfort is an issue in training cats to use litter boxes. If cats don't find using litter boxes convenient on their part, why will they use it?
Check if your cat is comfortable using open or closed litter boxes.
4. Take it easy.
Most cat owners who train their pets for litter box use lack patience. Thus, after a short period of time, they give up, or they use force in training their cats. Both actions are wrong.
One must learn that patience is an important trait needed in training cats.
5. Cats seek rewards for a job well done.
If your cat uses the litter box, but did not feel that you appreciated its efforts, there is no reason for your cat to repeat using it again.
Make the task of using the litter box enjoyable and fulfilling for your pet by giving rewards. After a while, your cat will be accustomed to the habit.
6. More cats = more litter boxes.
Place more litter boxes to accommodate all your pets. Place them based on your cats' preference.
Generally, training cats to use litter boxes is an easy thing for an owner who knows his cat well.
About the Author
Anita Hampton http://www.cat-health-tips.com
1. Cleanliness is a must for cats.
Sometimes, even if the cat is already trained in using litter boxes, the owner usually finds his pet urinating or defecating just a few inches away from the litter box. The cat wants to use the litter box, and this can be proven by the proximity of the waste to the litter box. However, because the litter box is dirty, the cat opted not to use it.
The point here is that cats prefer to expel body wastes on clean areas. So make it a point to regularly check if the litter box is always clean and ready for your cat's use. The cleanliness of the area where the litter box is situated must also be checked frequently.
2. Cats do need privacy.
Do not expect your cat to defecate or urinate in busy areas because they also have the need for privacy. That is why most cats prefer to do their thing behind furniture, or in corners of rooms.
To solve the problem, place litter boxes in areas where cats would be less likely to be disturbed.
3. Cats must be comfortable in using their litter boxes.
Comfort is an issue in training cats to use litter boxes. If cats don't find using litter boxes convenient on their part, why will they use it?
Check if your cat is comfortable using open or closed litter boxes.
4. Take it easy.
Most cat owners who train their pets for litter box use lack patience. Thus, after a short period of time, they give up, or they use force in training their cats. Both actions are wrong.
One must learn that patience is an important trait needed in training cats.
5. Cats seek rewards for a job well done.
If your cat uses the litter box, but did not feel that you appreciated its efforts, there is no reason for your cat to repeat using it again.
Make the task of using the litter box enjoyable and fulfilling for your pet by giving rewards. After a while, your cat will be accustomed to the habit.
6. More cats = more litter boxes.
Place more litter boxes to accommodate all your pets. Place them based on your cats' preference.
Generally, training cats to use litter boxes is an easy thing for an owner who knows his cat well.
About the Author
Anita Hampton http://www.cat-health-tips.com
Repel Cats Safely and Easily by Anita Hampton
Cats in general are loveable creatures. However, it is possible that some of them get on the bad side of the household. Thus, it is necessary to address the situation when the cats are the problem.
Stray cats are actually the problem. Cats that do not have owners to train them have made the whole neighborhood their home. They ruin the garden. They mess up the trash can. Thus, one should seek for solutions that will keep the cats away. Repel them.
At the same time, repelling cats should be done in the most ëhumaneí way possible. There are several options to consider in keeping those mean cats away, easily and safely.
Cat Powder Easy to apply to the garden, these cat powders appeal to the instincts of the cats. These contain the scent of a predator, usually a coyote. Cats recognize the territoriality of animals, thus having such scent in the house would keep them away.
One only has to sprinkle this in the desired area. The ones available in the market are usually not harmful to children and to the plants in the garden.
Sound Repellent This creates sounds that are extremely annoying to a cat but remains undetected to humans.
Cat Scatmats Some use the scatmats for the more stubborn ones. These are thin mats that can be situated on the floor, garden furniture or window sills. They are battery-charged. Any animal that would walk on it will receive an unpleasant shock. Cats are found to be sensitive to the mild shock, enough to discourage them from returning.
Water Sprayer The market offers this very helpful repellent. It is connected to the garden hose and has a sensor for movements. Any unwarranted movement of a stray cat will result to a blast of water to fright the cats.
Liquid Repellent It can be sprayed on any surface that cats may or constantly claw on. It has a terrible taste that would be noticed by the cat when it grooms itself. The cat will automatically avoid such locations.
Air Repellent Some repellents use a blast of air to keep cats away. Cats will find this scary. The tools come with a distinct sound that will be helpful in scaring cats away.
Odor neutralizer Cats often leave lingering scent trail on the garden that only attract more cats The odor neutralizer will use enzymes that will rid of the odor and bacteria. Just make sure that this is applied directly to the scent trail.
With these aids and tools at hand, the cat problem is resolved. These defenses are sure way to secure the household and get rid of the headache.
About the Author
Anita hampton http://www.cat-health-tips.com
Stray cats are actually the problem. Cats that do not have owners to train them have made the whole neighborhood their home. They ruin the garden. They mess up the trash can. Thus, one should seek for solutions that will keep the cats away. Repel them.
At the same time, repelling cats should be done in the most ëhumaneí way possible. There are several options to consider in keeping those mean cats away, easily and safely.
Cat Powder Easy to apply to the garden, these cat powders appeal to the instincts of the cats. These contain the scent of a predator, usually a coyote. Cats recognize the territoriality of animals, thus having such scent in the house would keep them away.
One only has to sprinkle this in the desired area. The ones available in the market are usually not harmful to children and to the plants in the garden.
Sound Repellent This creates sounds that are extremely annoying to a cat but remains undetected to humans.
Cat Scatmats Some use the scatmats for the more stubborn ones. These are thin mats that can be situated on the floor, garden furniture or window sills. They are battery-charged. Any animal that would walk on it will receive an unpleasant shock. Cats are found to be sensitive to the mild shock, enough to discourage them from returning.
Water Sprayer The market offers this very helpful repellent. It is connected to the garden hose and has a sensor for movements. Any unwarranted movement of a stray cat will result to a blast of water to fright the cats.
Liquid Repellent It can be sprayed on any surface that cats may or constantly claw on. It has a terrible taste that would be noticed by the cat when it grooms itself. The cat will automatically avoid such locations.
Air Repellent Some repellents use a blast of air to keep cats away. Cats will find this scary. The tools come with a distinct sound that will be helpful in scaring cats away.
Odor neutralizer Cats often leave lingering scent trail on the garden that only attract more cats The odor neutralizer will use enzymes that will rid of the odor and bacteria. Just make sure that this is applied directly to the scent trail.
With these aids and tools at hand, the cat problem is resolved. These defenses are sure way to secure the household and get rid of the headache.
About the Author
Anita hampton http://www.cat-health-tips.com
Treat Your Dog To A Massage by Lyn Meyer
A massage is a great idea for a dog treat. When properly done it will help release any pent up stress or tension, resulting in a calm and more peaceful pet. Dogs show their emotions in their face and mouth a lot, and most restless dogs that are either tense, aggressive, or hyperactive have a tendency to bark and chew to relieve their tension. A therapeutic massage on their muzzle and gum line often helps animals with these behavior problems.
Apart from keeping your dog calm and happy, you should also find that giving your pet a massage will increase their flexibility and reduce any minor pain they may have.
One technique is to make little circles on the muzzle and jaw with your fingers. Gently move the skin in a clockwise direction forming a full circle, then move your hand over and make another circle right next to it. Take your time, and be gentle.
A massage will also help you bond more with your dog. Whether your dog is active or inactive, young or old, you can provide a gentle comforting touch. The best part of a massage is relaxation - an ideal treat for both you and your pet.
About the Author
Lyn owns Cat and Dog Treats which helps people learn about Cat Treats and Dog Treats
Apart from keeping your dog calm and happy, you should also find that giving your pet a massage will increase their flexibility and reduce any minor pain they may have.
One technique is to make little circles on the muzzle and jaw with your fingers. Gently move the skin in a clockwise direction forming a full circle, then move your hand over and make another circle right next to it. Take your time, and be gentle.
A massage will also help you bond more with your dog. Whether your dog is active or inactive, young or old, you can provide a gentle comforting touch. The best part of a massage is relaxation - an ideal treat for both you and your pet.
About the Author
Lyn owns Cat and Dog Treats which helps people learn about Cat Treats and Dog Treats
Don't be a dogfood sucker. by Lizzy Planson
Could it be that people don't know how to care for their dogs? Is it possible that people are not taking proper care of their dogs? Are people still using outmoded methods of training and harmful nutional advice? It is not only possible it is probable. I see it all the time. People still buy processed dog food, shock collars, choke chains and other abusive products, not because they're mean to their dogs but just because they don't know any better. Fortunately with the advent of the internet we can all do our own research and find out the right methods and products to use to make our dogs as healthy and happy as possible.
Commercial dog food is atrocious. It depleats your dogs enzymes on an ongoing basis, is made from animal wastes and byproducts, and can shorten your dog's lifespan by up to a decade. You'd be better off feeding your dog table scraps than the bagged garbage you find in the supermarket. Fortunately though there are places you can find reliable, valuable information on feeding your dog the appropriate things. It isn't hard to figure out. Just feed your dog like you would feed your children. All natural foods, maybe add some enzymes, and a little bit of the essential fatty acids, and there you go. It really is that simple. Many people will try to sell you their products saying that they are the only ones that have the right formula that will add decades to your dog's life (case in point: Dog Food Secrets) but it really isn't any harder than listening to your common sense. I personally noticed a great difference in my dog's vibrance and energy levels once I started feeding him how I would want to be fed. True table food isn't necessarily the best idea (though better than commercial dogfood) so a little bit more information is necessary. For that there are literally dozens of different books out there. You can sift through all of them if you want to, though I'll tell you right now they're all going to be pretty much the same. Just keep your eyes open for sensationalism and try to find a good book of simple recipes. The one I've been using for a while now is 245 DogFood Recipes. It's simple and to the point, no propaganda or guilt trips, and you can try it out for free to see if you like it. Your dog will thank you.
About the Author
Lizzy has been an animal health technician for 13 years and currently resides in Encino California.
Commercial dog food is atrocious. It depleats your dogs enzymes on an ongoing basis, is made from animal wastes and byproducts, and can shorten your dog's lifespan by up to a decade. You'd be better off feeding your dog table scraps than the bagged garbage you find in the supermarket. Fortunately though there are places you can find reliable, valuable information on feeding your dog the appropriate things. It isn't hard to figure out. Just feed your dog like you would feed your children. All natural foods, maybe add some enzymes, and a little bit of the essential fatty acids, and there you go. It really is that simple. Many people will try to sell you their products saying that they are the only ones that have the right formula that will add decades to your dog's life (case in point: Dog Food Secrets) but it really isn't any harder than listening to your common sense. I personally noticed a great difference in my dog's vibrance and energy levels once I started feeding him how I would want to be fed. True table food isn't necessarily the best idea (though better than commercial dogfood) so a little bit more information is necessary. For that there are literally dozens of different books out there. You can sift through all of them if you want to, though I'll tell you right now they're all going to be pretty much the same. Just keep your eyes open for sensationalism and try to find a good book of simple recipes. The one I've been using for a while now is 245 DogFood Recipes. It's simple and to the point, no propaganda or guilt trips, and you can try it out for free to see if you like it. Your dog will thank you.
About the Author
Lizzy has been an animal health technician for 13 years and currently resides in Encino California.
How To Make Your House A Cat Friendly Home by Matt Ide
How to make your house a cat friendly home
Cats are a joy to have around the house. They spring and pounce on unsuspecting dust bunnies and sprint back and forth across the house. Their energy for living in the moment is an amazing quality and their ability to find the best places to sleep are uncanny. This article is going to provide a few tips on how to make your house a cat friendly home.
First, when bringing a kitty home for the first time it is a good idea to only allow them to view and explore part of the house. As they grow more comfortable with their new environment then allow them to explore a little more of the house. Just a little at a time. Cats are a somewhat nervous sort and little things can really disrupt their day. Give them time to acclimate themselves.
Second, make sure that your house only has cat safe plants anywhere your cat could get to them. It's pretty common for a cat to want to take a nibble of the fern in the corner; however some plants are notorious for giving cats upset stomachs or even creating a serious medical condition. Take the time to research what plants are safe for you fuzzy little friend.
Third, provide your cat with the proper cat scratching elements. They are going to want to stretch and scratch. By providing the proper areas for them to do this will keep them from scratching on the couch. Provide a few scratching posts around the house and make sure they are aware of them, by taking your cat to the scratching posts. It will not take long for the cat to get the idea.
Fourth, if you have a high traffic house, you might want to consider finding a place that your cat can call its own. Take a cardboard box and place it in a little nook and then put a small blanket in the bottom. Your cat will find this place and when the house is noisy and they need some comfortable, recognizable place to calm down, they will turn to this little cubby of their own.
These are just few ideas on how to make your house a cat friendly home. If you are interest in learning more about making your house the perfect home for you little kitty and would like to learn more about cat behaviors and why they do what they do follow the link provided at the bottom or visit, www.purs-and-paws.blogspot.com. http://knightwrit.a1s2d3.hop.clickbank.net/
About the Author
Matt Ide lives and writes in northern Michigan as a web content writer. If you would like for him to write for you, please email him at, Matt@knightwriterpublishing.com. In addition, if you would like to learn more about why cats do what they do, please visit, http://www.purs-and-paws.blogspot.com.
Cats are a joy to have around the house. They spring and pounce on unsuspecting dust bunnies and sprint back and forth across the house. Their energy for living in the moment is an amazing quality and their ability to find the best places to sleep are uncanny. This article is going to provide a few tips on how to make your house a cat friendly home.
First, when bringing a kitty home for the first time it is a good idea to only allow them to view and explore part of the house. As they grow more comfortable with their new environment then allow them to explore a little more of the house. Just a little at a time. Cats are a somewhat nervous sort and little things can really disrupt their day. Give them time to acclimate themselves.
Second, make sure that your house only has cat safe plants anywhere your cat could get to them. It's pretty common for a cat to want to take a nibble of the fern in the corner; however some plants are notorious for giving cats upset stomachs or even creating a serious medical condition. Take the time to research what plants are safe for you fuzzy little friend.
Third, provide your cat with the proper cat scratching elements. They are going to want to stretch and scratch. By providing the proper areas for them to do this will keep them from scratching on the couch. Provide a few scratching posts around the house and make sure they are aware of them, by taking your cat to the scratching posts. It will not take long for the cat to get the idea.
Fourth, if you have a high traffic house, you might want to consider finding a place that your cat can call its own. Take a cardboard box and place it in a little nook and then put a small blanket in the bottom. Your cat will find this place and when the house is noisy and they need some comfortable, recognizable place to calm down, they will turn to this little cubby of their own.
These are just few ideas on how to make your house a cat friendly home. If you are interest in learning more about making your house the perfect home for you little kitty and would like to learn more about cat behaviors and why they do what they do follow the link provided at the bottom or visit, www.purs-and-paws.blogspot.com. http://knightwrit.a1s2d3.hop.clickbank.net/
About the Author
Matt Ide lives and writes in northern Michigan as a web content writer. If you would like for him to write for you, please email him at, Matt@knightwriterpublishing.com. In addition, if you would like to learn more about why cats do what they do, please visit, http://www.purs-and-paws.blogspot.com.
Pet Allergies by Mike Mathews
Many people are allergic to the family pet and research has shown that people are allergic to cats about twice as frequently as dogs. Getting rid of the beloved family pet is usually not an option. Therefore we have to learn how to live with our allergies by learning how to manage them. Most people think that allergies are caused by cat or dog hair but that is not really the problem. Allergic reactions are caused by proteins called allergens that come from oil glands in the skin and are shed as dander allergens. Allergens are also found in the saliva and urine of cats and dogs. Allergens are very pervasive and cling to clothes, furniture fabric and shoes. Cat allergens have been found in houses many months after the cat has departed and have also been found many houses of people that never owned a cat. Dander allergens are really dead skin cells that can be transferred to your pet's fur when they clean and lick themselves. A major problem for individuals predisposed to allergies occurs when they inhale airborne pet dander allergens. Allergic reactions result when minute particles of dander fool our immune systems into thinking that the dander is an invading antibody. Our immune system releases histamines to fight the "dander" antibody which results in the familiar sneezing, coughing, runny nose, itching eyes and difficult breathing. The first exposure to an allergen doesn't usually trigger symptoms and it takes multiple exposures over a period of weeks or months to produce full blown reactions. So how do we cope or manage the situation so that we can live with our cat or dog?
We can first find out if we are really allergic to the family pet, or something else like dust, pollen or mold, by visiting an allergist physician and getting tested for various allergens. If your allergic reactions are severe then the allergist may recommend allergy shots to desensitize your reaction to dander allergens. Next you can try and allergen proof your home by getting rid of your carpets and replacing your curtains with vertical blinds. Easily washed surfaces can eliminate a lot of dander allergens. If you have wall-to-wall carpeting then have it steam cleaned fairly often. If possible install air cleaners and air filters and vacuum often with a vacuum cleaner with a high allergen containment rating. Restrict your pet's access to your bed and bedroom and try to keep pets off the chairs and sofa that you regularly use. Try to minimize the dander allergens on your pets by washing them weekly with a special moisturizing allergy shampoo. Obviously, it is easier to do with a dog than a cat. Wash your hands frequently when playing with or grooming your pet. Try spraying your pet's coat with an anti-allergy spray that helps eliminate allergens. Try to groom your pet frequently as the combing and brushing will help stimulate a healthy skin. Try and do the grooming outside your house and if possible get someone else to do the grooming. If it isn't possible then wear rubber gloves and a mask to reduce your exposure to the dander. Finally, if you are getting a new cat or dog, you may want to try and get a breed that produces less dander. All pets produce some dander - even the so-called hypoallergenic pure-bred and hybrid designer breeds. Smaller pets produce less dander than larger pets. Light-colored and short haired cats seem to produce less dander. In dogs, many of the non-shedding or low-shedding breeds may also produce less dander. See the Dog Allergies section of www.dog-breed-facts.com/dog-allergies.html for a list of dog breeds that should produce less dander.
About the Author
Mike Mathews is an editor and regular contributor to the popular dog breed information site www.dog-breed-facts.com . He recently added a new section on Dog Allergies that shows allergy sufferers how to cope with their allergic reactions to dogs - which can be found at http://www.dog-breed-facts.com/dog-allergies.html
We can first find out if we are really allergic to the family pet, or something else like dust, pollen or mold, by visiting an allergist physician and getting tested for various allergens. If your allergic reactions are severe then the allergist may recommend allergy shots to desensitize your reaction to dander allergens. Next you can try and allergen proof your home by getting rid of your carpets and replacing your curtains with vertical blinds. Easily washed surfaces can eliminate a lot of dander allergens. If you have wall-to-wall carpeting then have it steam cleaned fairly often. If possible install air cleaners and air filters and vacuum often with a vacuum cleaner with a high allergen containment rating. Restrict your pet's access to your bed and bedroom and try to keep pets off the chairs and sofa that you regularly use. Try to minimize the dander allergens on your pets by washing them weekly with a special moisturizing allergy shampoo. Obviously, it is easier to do with a dog than a cat. Wash your hands frequently when playing with or grooming your pet. Try spraying your pet's coat with an anti-allergy spray that helps eliminate allergens. Try to groom your pet frequently as the combing and brushing will help stimulate a healthy skin. Try and do the grooming outside your house and if possible get someone else to do the grooming. If it isn't possible then wear rubber gloves and a mask to reduce your exposure to the dander. Finally, if you are getting a new cat or dog, you may want to try and get a breed that produces less dander. All pets produce some dander - even the so-called hypoallergenic pure-bred and hybrid designer breeds. Smaller pets produce less dander than larger pets. Light-colored and short haired cats seem to produce less dander. In dogs, many of the non-shedding or low-shedding breeds may also produce less dander. See the Dog Allergies section of www.dog-breed-facts.com/dog-allergies.html for a list of dog breeds that should produce less dander.
About the Author
Mike Mathews is an editor and regular contributor to the popular dog breed information site www.dog-breed-facts.com . He recently added a new section on Dog Allergies that shows allergy sufferers how to cope with their allergic reactions to dogs - which can be found at http://www.dog-breed-facts.com/dog-allergies.html
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