Automatic Cat Litter Boxes Are A Great Time Saver

By James Litterman

Automatic cat litter boxes or the self-cleaning boxes save you from the headache of cleaning out the litter pan everyday. They are of a great help of to all cat owners. Since the automatic cat litter boxes are brand new available in the market, you probably won't find countless manufacturers or various versions from which to choose. But the inescapable fact remains that this boxis an awesome product which enables you you get rid of the smell of your cats excretion and also reducing the actual manual labour needed.

As stated before, right now there will not be many models. Nevertheless, here's few makes that you may would like to bear in mind: CatGenie, Scoop Free, Litter Maid. With most models the only real manual work which you are required to perform would be to change the waste container once per week, for people with one average size cat. Your cats waste is instantly raked right into a sealable container Ten minutes right after use. In addition, a safety bar instantly stops the cleaning rake with the merest touch. These 2 functions make sure absolutely no harm is done to your cat or anyone else.

By and large the quantity of litter required by automatic cat litter boxes is usually lower compared to that by standard litter trays of the same size. A large number of models have a dual operating power method that is they may be plugged straight into an outlet or perhaps operated by battery power.

Expectedly, the price of these boxes will be higher than for normal trays. If you are thinking of buying an automatic cat litter box, you should keep in mind that you'll have to train your cat to use it appropriately. Here is a detail by detail guide which might be handy to you in doing this:

1) Place the litter box in a quiet place. This is because the cats prefer to go to the toilet in privacy.

2) Help your cat to walk into the box, when in praise them. There is no need to make your cat go to the toilet. Merely get him/her in there and praise, to ensure he/she is encouraged of doing this always.

3) If the cat does to the toilet and does not use the litter box, you could pick up the excrement and put it into the litter box. You might have to do this for the first few days and sooner or later your cat will learn. Keep in mind don't get irritated at the cat and remain calm throughout the process.

Normally , cat owners that have used self cleaning boxes are generally rather pleased with them. Some owners nonetheless, find that his or her cats simply just won't be able to get on them. Automatic cat litter boxes are not super quiet and also sometime would be needed so that you can get used to it. - 31851

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Why Pet Insurance Is Of Vital Importance For The Welfare Of Your Beloved Pets

By Eddie Lamb

Almost every household has at least one type of pet. Many households have multiple pets, being blended with a combination of dogs, cats, fish and birds. Fish and birds rarely have health problems which require expensive veterinary care. However that is not the case with a dog or cat. When a dog or cat is injured or seriously ill, it can cost the pet's owner a huge sum of money to correct the problem. This is why pet insurance makes financial sense for the family, and stands out as an act of love for the pet.

An insurance policy not only protects your pet, it protects your family from financial hardship. Vet bills can be really expensive in some instances. The minimal cost of the policy will more than justify the expenses you could suffer later.

The same illnesses that plague mankind can also strike our canine and feline friends. It is not uncommon for a dog or a cat to have cancer. There are other diseases which can strike our little friends which can drive up a huge veterinary bill. This is including the chance that your pet would be severely injured in an accident. A pet which had to have an operation and veterinary stay because of an illness or accident could cause the owner to pay thousands of dollars in veterinary care. An insurance policy which covers our little friends would help absorb the impact of such a high medical bill.

Just as you and your family members have regular doctor visits, such as physician and dental visits, your pets have them also. If you had an insurance policy which covered pets, you would be able to cut the cost of your veterinary visits. Preventative care is often covered in most.net and cat insurance plans. This helps keep them healthy so it is less likely they will get sick. It saves the insurance company money over the long term.

There are several different types of insurance policies that you can get for your pet. How much you pay out of pocket for certain types of medical care is just one of the options you may be able to choose from when comparing policies. Even though the cost of emergency pet care can become quite extensive, the average insurance policy for a cat or dog is quite minimal.

When you search for a health insurance policy for your pet, you should keep in mind what type of deductible you would like to pay. If you have multiple pets, you should be able to get a discount, so you would be wise to shop around before you settled on any one insurance company.

Since this type of insurance has become very popular, you may be surprised to find that your own personal insurance company may offer coverage for your pet. You should ask your insurance agent if they cover pets, because you might be able to get it cheaply. If your current insurance agent does not offer policies for pets, you can find it elsewhere at a very low monthly fee. You can also pay for a year upfront and possibly save even more money.

Pets have become a big part of our daily lives. They depend on us for their welfare, so it only makes sense that we as pet owners would think of their health concerns just as we would our own. By purchasing pet insurance is for your pets, you will be investing in a financially sound practice while providing health coverage. It is a loving way to show that you truly care. - 31851

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The Perfect Pet Urn For Your Pets Ashes

By Pete Stone

The perfect pet urn is one that reflects the personality of your pet. You can often find them at your local veterinarian or a pet funeral home but you will pay top dollar. Consider making your purchase online which will often include a much larger selection to choose from. Pet urns come in many different materials, shapes and colors and making a decision during a moment of loss can often be difficult.

When you lose a pet the loss is often sudden and making decisions on burial or cremation can be a difficult undertaking but even having a pet memorial that will house mementos, photos and keepsakes can often help with the pain. Pet urns come in many styles such as burial, memorial even biodegradable depending on if it will be for display or buried. The most common materials are stone, metal, wood or ceramic. Often metals will be brass, bronze or copper. The use of wood is common and the list of woods used is too many to list here. Ceramic pet urns are very common and are often made into vase shapes or figurines or something a little more personal.

Consider where you will eventually place your pet urn. This is critical and depending on where you place it should help you decide what material you would choose. If you choose a stone or metal urn this may be a great choice for outdoors and wood or ceramic is better left for indoor if it will be for display. Metal urns could gracefully tarnish outdoors or the tarnish could be removed with the appropriate cleaner. Most metals will tarnish or start showing signs within weeks of being placed outdoors. If you decide to go with metal consider a likely cleaning compound on a regular basis. One way to protect many surfaces outdoors it with acrylic wax and this could be applied with a sponge and applied slowly to avoid bubbles from forming. Wax will not last forever but adds another layer of protection but always test an inconspicuous area to make sure it will work wit the coatings oft he urn.

Another common type of urn is a pet photo urn. Often made of one of the mentioned materials it will often have a placeholder for your pets photo including a holder for a metal plaque that you can have you pets name engraved on with a few loving words. In some cases the a photo of your pet and a few lines of kindness can be laser engraved onto the surface of the pet urn. This is often done on stone or wood surfaces.

Consider stone or metal for a lasting burial urn. Many people often plant a small shrub or plant over the area to designate it as a pet memorial. You could also use yard ornaments or concrete statues to mark off the area as a dedicated pet memorial.

When you loose a pet it can often be overwhelming searching for the perfect urn or memorial urn. When buying a pet urn online you can often save a lot of money and find the perfect choice. - 31851

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Keep Your Floors Clean With Cat Litter Mats

By Ned Dagostino

Every cat owner must face the problem of dirty floors especially around the cat's litter box. The cat's litter box is a necessary evil as it is. Added to that is the problem of having the cat track dirt over your clean floors every time it uses the litter box. Dirt apart, the flooring and floor coverings also take a beating from the dirt. Expensively done parquet floors can get damaged from the litter particles that are tracked onto it. Rare carpets can get damaged likewise.

Even the cushions and the upholstery on your sofa sets can get soiled with these litter particles if your cat has a penchant for jumping onto the furniture, which most cats do! This is doubly damaging. First of all you have to get a professional cleaner to come to the house to clean the upholstery and the carpets, an expensive business. Secondly, the frequent cleaning, though professionally done, takes its toll on the longevity of these items, and you'll find them getting threadbare and unusable much before their regular lifespan. This means replacement of these items which is frightfully expensive. So what can be done? The solution is very straightforward: use a cat litter mat.

The cat litter mat is a textured rubber mat that is placed just outside the cat's litter box. Make sure that it is positioned just where the cat lands when it leaves the litter box! The textured surface is designed to catch the litter particles from the cat's paws. This means all the litter remains in the cat litter mat, and that means a clean house, no more soiled clothes, upholstery, bedding, whatever. The flooring, the floor covering, the upholstery and furniture are protected from damage.

Your cat benefits too. It does not have to clean its paws so often. This prevents or restricts debris of the litter from getting ingested by the cat.

Though the question of affordability does not really arise, you may still not want to buy a cat litter mat. In that case, you can put some old rugs or blanket pieces over a rubber bathmat. Even old toweling, especially the Turkish type, will do. This will make a cat litter mat for your cat that will be as good as the ready made one. Just make sure that you wash or replace the material often, to prevent them from getting heavily soiled themselves.

Using a cat litter mat is a must for a clean and healthy house. Cleaner floors means that you'll save yourself the time and effort of cleaning up ever so often. You'll save money by fewer calls to a professional cleaning service. Your floors will remain undamaged for longer. More savings.

Not only your pet, but your family will also remain healthier because they won't be exposed to bacteria and germs from the litter debris that your cat may occasionally track onto the bed linen or furniture. So don't delay any more, go out and get that cat litter mat for a healthier, cleaner household! - 31851

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Being Robbed by Pet Insurance Firms?

By Mr. John Sommer, PhD.

I am sure you have thought about whether to have a pet insurance for your pet or not. will it be worth it in the end and will the insurance company even pay when an accident happen to your pet or will you be left with the bill and have nowhere to file a complaint?

Sometimes you're just not covered and there is nothing to do about it. Maybe the policy where difficult to read or maybe you didn't read it as closely as you should but other times the company should pay but they will try to avoid it. You might have been able to find that out beforehand.

The points below are some of the obvious things you should look into but I would like to encourage you to go check out the more specific information on my website by clicking the links in the bottom of this article.

Starting off you should search your own mind for anything you might already know about the insurance companies in your area. Have you read anything in the paper or did you ever hear somebody you know talk about any of them? First hand info is very valuable.

After that you should seek to talk to some professionals. Vets will know a lot more about pet insurance companies than you might think. Every time a pet gets injured they will be involved in one way or another and they are therefore more likely to know who pays and who don't.

Thirdly you need to go online to check for reviews. The great thing about reviews is that they will have both positive and negative comments. You should look at both and make up your mind after reading both sides of the story.

Finally I suggest that you call up the company that you are planning on purchasing pet insurance with. It will be of great value to talk to their customer support personnel to see whether they are treating you in a kind manor. You can even call them up and fake an accident to see how they react.

4 basic steps that will have a profound effect on what pet insurance company to sign up with. Now there are no guarantees that they are going to pay in case an accident do happen to your pet but as least you have given it a fair try. For additional information about pet insurance companies be sure to visit my website. - 31851

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Three Top Carpet Fiber Options for Inside Pets

By Shawne M. Patrick

Selecting a type of flooring can be a massive decision for people that are on the lookout for certain features. Carpet is a preferred choice for many folks, preferring it over area rugs, hardwood, laminate, vinyl or tile. Carpet adds comfort to any room and it feels warm and cozy under bare feet. But let's bear in mind about our pets! Indoor pets are folks's companions, pals and members of their family. We like them indoor - with us. So to select the best fiber type carpet that may last and still look good for the family and indoor pets, keep reading!

Recycled Fiber is carpet which has been made of recycled plastics. More carpet today is being made of polyethylene terephthalate. Enormous words for huge results! This is wonderful carpet for indoor pets as it is intensely proof against high traffic, it's static resistant and best of all, water resistant! No more stains, no more'wet patch' looks and no electrical shocks! For these reasons, Recycled fiber is rated as the best fiber type carpet to have in the home with indoor pets. Perhaps someday shortly they will come out with Recycled fiber area rugs!

The second most well-liked fiber type carpet acquired in the carpet industry - Nylon. Nylon type carpet is the most well liked sort of carpet that is purchased for home homes. It claims 90% of the market! It's manufacturing method and quality varies in style as it does with prices. This type of carpet does extremely well with a house full of children and indoor pets. It's highly adaptable under traffic and it resists marking and soiling. It's often sold as complete flooring or you can get nylon fiber area rugs too.

Third best would become the next highest purchased kind of carpet - Olefin. Olefin fiber carpet is made from polypropelene. Polypropelene is one of the fibers that is commonly used to make carpet. Like nylon, it too is resilient under traffic and it resists marking and soiling too. This type of carpet can work fine for families with indoor pets as it'll last for years. This is generally purchased for commercial purposes.

For example, plenty of business offices have this kind of carpet. It's highly sturdy and though it's bought for commercial use, it's superb for indoor pets too. - 31851

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Pet Cure for Arthritis - Your Pet May Need It

By Derick Mcgee

Does your pet have dysplasia or some other condition? Do you need a safe and reliable solution to relieve that pain? Maybe it is time for you to take a look at natural pain relievers. There are newer pain products available now that have less side effects the the medicines we used to use. You will start to see dramatic improvement in the energy your pets very quickly. The products you may want to take a look at are Flex Pet, Old Bones and Joint Rescue.

Let look at this scenario. You have a middle aged dog or cat. They normally get calmer as the years go by. While a calmer pet is normally a welcome change, he/she may also be suffering from Arthritis or Dysplasia. Amazingly, cats will develop these conditions as much or more often than dogs. If you start to see changes in your pet;s energy levels, it might be time to investigate pain management solutions for your pet.

Typically, most pet owners do not realize that their pet is suffering until the veterinarian tells them that it is time to make a decision about euthanasia. Even though the best pet cure will not undue years of damage to fragile hip, shoulder, and wrist joints, they can reduce pain and inflammation.

At the very least, if you are hesitant about saying that final goodbye to your cat or dog, you can give natural pain remedies a short trial. If they work, then you can look forward to a little bit more quality time with your favorite pet.

Yearly, millions of pet owners are challenged with the incontrovertible fact that aging pets suffer from all different types of pain. Luckily, there are some natural pet care products that may be used to treat both mild and complicated joint pain. Any one of these products can enable your pet to live a long, satisfied life without the common complications associated with typical pain killers. Pet Pain - 31851

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How To Keep Your Pet Healthy

By Mr. John Sommer, PhD.

Assuming that you are a pet owner and that you probably own either a cat or a dog (as that is what most pet owners do) I am not going to teach you something that you do not know but rather bring your attention to something that you might have forgotten.

* Movement: Both a pet cat and a pet dog will need for you to make them use their physics. Their body need exercise to function and the larger the pet's body is the more exercise will be required.

* Exercise type: Most cats will want to stay outside and as long as you let it do that itll do the necessary physical activity that it needs. For dogs you need to take them for longer walk once, twice or even three times a day. If you can take them for a swim occasionally that would be beneficial as well.

* Don't spoil: Giving your pet food in excess amounts will be just as harmful for them as it is for you to overeat. The problem is that since they are pets they don't know that what you're giving them will actually harm them.

* Vitamins and minerals: Be sure to ask your VET what she recommends that you purchase for your pet. Some pet foods are better than others and you'll most likely find that you can benefit from finding breed specific products.

* Caring: Be sure to express that you care for you pet via both words, tonality and physical gestures. Pets are no different than humans and if they don't receive love they'll become sad and lose the will to keep on living.

* Get pet insurance: Accidents do happen and if you have had a pet for a while you probably know that paying for medical bills, surgery and even the regular VET visits will cost you a small fortune. Pet insurance will in most cases take care of a larger part of that expenditure.

* Plan ahead: With a little planning you'll get a long way when it comes to making sure that your pet stays healthy and vital for all of it's life. Planning visits to the VET at regular intervals and to make sure that it gets the proper vaccines are just some of the things to put into a plan. - 31851

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What Causes Mange And How To Treat It

By Catherine V. Testaratti

Mange is an itchy, inflammatory disease caused by the mite Demodex. Making a determination of which mite your dog is infected with can determine the seriousness of mange. Typically mange in dogs is referred to as Demodicosis.

Mange can cause immune system problems, lesions and genetic disorders if left untreated. Both cats and dogs are known to contract this uncomfortable disease. Your dog's side effects will be different depending on which mite your pet is infected with.

Demodectic mange comes in two forms. It can be localized to a particular area of the body or can be general and cover the dogs entire body. Making a determination as to which type your pet has will determine the treatment your vet will administer.

While many vets will say they do not know what might cause mange, some believe that dogs can be predisposed to this disease due to an immune system problem. Generalized mange will appear as redness of the skin and patches of lesions over the entire body. Localized mange will be around the face, trunk or legs of the dog.

There are three identifiable mites that are known to cause mange. While transmissions of two are unknown, Demodex canis has been determined to get into the hair follicle. It is assumed that this is transferred from the mother to the newborn through nursing.

Diagnosis can be made in two ways. First it is ruled out that your dog does not just have an infection of the hair follicles. The vet will take a scrape of the skin and test that or if possible, test a urine sample.

Generalized mange can be the hardest to cure. You have the option of the lime-sulphur dip and continuous medication, which should alleviate some of the discomfort. In the more severe cases, it should be ascertained what type of life the dog will have to endure with this chronic condition, then determine the best solution for your dog.

Once a diagnosis of mange is determined, treatment will be advised. It is important to remember that you will need to be diligent with treatment upon diagnosis to keep the disease from spreading. Skin scrapings will need to be tested until it is determined that mites are no longer found.

Remember that if your pet has generalized mange, it's best that you not breed it. Prevention can be simply maintaining a healthy diet for your dog. Regular grooming and good health may be all you need to keep your dog free of mange. - 31851

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Recognizing The Importance Of A Veterinarian

By Julie Jones

There is a particular importance to taking your pets to their Miami veterinarians annually and as needed. Doing so allows them to stay healthy and active throughout their lifetime. If your pet has been behaving differently lately or seems to be ill, a visit to the veterinarian should be considered. This is the best way possible for you to find out exactly what may be happening with your animals. It can also teach you a lot about them as well.

If you are a first time pet owner, you may have many questions about the care of your animal. The vet will usually have the answers you need as well as some advice. If you are curious about what to feed your animal, how much, or about daily supplements and other medications for your pet, consider asking the vet next time you go to visit.

Even individuals that have had pets throughout their lives can learn something new from the vet. A veterinarian has studied for a long amount of time at various educational institutes and programs in order to learn the necessary information for taking care of animals. Because of this, they can tell you and teach you a lot about your animals that you may not already know from experience, .

A veterinarian knows more and notices more about animals than the average person would be able to. They are required to in order to treat your animal. It allows them to be able to diagnose and treat your pet in any situation and give you the correct answers about what is going on. If you think that your pet has become sick, take it in to the vet soon in order to find out what the problem can be.

Prices you might expect for going to the vet can vary depending on the types of treatment that are getting done. If you are purchasing shots and injections, these are fairly inexpensive. However, medications and surgeries can sometimes cost more. Ask your vet if there are any discounts available or payment plans for unexpected surgeries. Usually you can find a vet that will work with you to make sure that your pet gets the adequate attention that it needs.

If you have recently taken in a stray animal, you should always take it into the vet to have it checked for any diseases or other problems. The same goes for animals that you have adopted. You need to make sure that the animals have received all of their proper shots and that they are not a threat to anyone by means of illness or other issues.

It is important for animals to go to the vet regularly. It is just as important for them as it is for a human to go to their own doctor's appointments regularly. You should remember to keep a focus on keeping your pet as healthy as you would keep yourself. Not taking your animal to the veterinarian when he or she needs to go is a form of animal neglect.

Can you imagine a world without veterinarians? There would be so many sick and suffering animals, and no one would know how to help them or treat them correctly so that they could recover. You should remember this and and thank your veterinarian for the work they do to keep your animal safe and healthy next time you go in for a visit with your pet. - 31851

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Silica Cat Litter Raises Concern About Pet's Health

By Ned Dagostino

We've all used those little sachets of silica gel in our cameras and electronic equipment. Silica is highly hygroscopic which means that it simply pulls moisture into itself, even out of thin air! Now they're using silica as a cat litter to suppress the odor of the cat's litter box. An inch high layer of silica is laid in the litter box. The cat's waste - liquid and solid, both - are thoroughly dried out in a very short time. That takes care of the odor! The solid waste is so dried out, that it's almost petrified! You can scoop it out very conveniently without encountering any unpleasant sight or smell.

The number of times you have to refresh the cat's litter box is just once or twice or month compared to almost daily for traditional cat litters. Each time you refresh the litter box you just have to lay down an inch or so of the silica cat litter. This makes it very economical. No wonder cat owners consider silica cat litter to be a wonderful product. But there is a darker side to this wonder product. The question that's being voiced is whether silica is a health risk for your cat. Read on to find out...

The particles of silica are very small but they are edgy, not rounded. The edges can bruise the cat's paws as it tries to scratch around in the litter box. Moreover, the particles cling to the cat's paws. When the cat licks its paws as is its custom, the silica particles get licked up as well. Over time, the particle build-up inside the cat's intestines can cause a number of health problems.

You may be happy that you now have to refresh the cat's litter box just once or twice a month. But did you know that pet experts and pet lovers alike are very critical about this very point. Keeping the litter for so long is inviting bacterial, fungal and microbial infections. These infections may affect your cat, and spread to pets and people as well.

You'll have to weigh the advantages and the disadvantages of silica litter before opting for it or against it. On the plus side we have some really solid reasons. The best reason is its low cost. The second reason is that it is convenient to clean. The next reason is that you are saved the trouble of refreshing the litter every few days.

The contra to these advantages is that, firstly, the cost of conventional clumping litter works out to the same as that of silica, and secondly, you get to remove the clumping litter everyday.

Let's not forget that silica can be physically damaging to the cat's paws. If you are extremely conscious of your cat's well-being, then you can go in for the mixed variety. Here the silica litter is mixed with the clumping variety which gives you a fairly good alternative.

Silica cat litter is actually a very good product suffering from some severe drawbacks. The mixed variety can be a bridge between all-silica and all-clumping. This way you get the benefits of both varieties of cat litters. The clumping prevents your cat's paws from damage, and the silica litter prevents the foul odor from pervading the house! - 31851

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Do You Want a Healthier Pet?

By Skibber Labskovs

When you own a pet you take on the responsibility for their lives. So many factors play into your pet being healthy. You have probably had a sick pet at some time your life, and you know how that can tug at your heart. I have had a sick dog so I know it feels, I could only thinks about getting her well. Does your pet need to be healthier?

The first thing to do to take good care of your pet is to feed them good nutritious food. Make sure this food is specially made for them. Pet food is specially designed to have all the nutritional needs included for your pet's health. Whether you have a dog or a hamster, they need the food that is specially designed for them.

In the event that you are going to give your pet people food to consume, make sure it follows their dietary guidelines. Dogs should absolutely not have anything with caffeine in it. This could bring on a heart attack with the dogs. Nor should they have sugar.

Animals can pack on extra pounds too if fed too many calories. This why the standing recommendation is to leave off scraps from the table. Fish that eat too much can die. Just like humans your pets are prone to bad health because of overeating. Most pets need enough water taken in daily to keep hydrated. Now when the pet of choice is fish, then they need certain water conditions to live healthy. So check the water often for any problems.

Make sure the vet sees your pet once a year when it pertains to the type of pet you have. Dogs and cats require vaccines yearly to ward off specific diseases. The rabies vaccine is probably the most important of all of them. If you live somewhere that your pet could come in contact with other animals especially wild ones, the rabies vaccine is crucial.

Pets in general need exercise just as much as people do. Fish get what exercise they need easily because they have to swim to survive. Cats and dogs need to be played with, ran, or walked to be positive that they are exercised enough. Exercise will insure that your pet has good muscle tone and it will also keep their weight at the right spot. And as with people their hearts will be healthier too. Walk your dog or cat when you go get your exercise walking. This is a fun way of both you and your pet staying healthy. If you have a hamster for the family pet then it needs to have a wheel to play on. These are the ways for exercising your pet correctly.

The last thing our pets to be healthy is our love and attention. We need to pet them and talk to them to let them know they are loved. Even grooming them is part of showing them attention. Dogs and cats both for the most part shed or their coats can become matted without proper brushing.

Following the above suggestions will help you have the healthiest pet you can have. Is this not what all of us pet owners want? So have a healthier pet today! - 31851

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Cat Furniture Is Beneficial For You

By Carol Navagato

Cat furniture, the commodity so commonly know with so many other different names like cat climbers, cat gyms or cat scratchers, is what you invest in your feline family members. There are numerous similar commodities out there specifically designed to fulfill the cat's instinctual desire to scratch. This furniture is made so that even the cats of any household can have a private place of their own where they can play or relax at their leisure.

To be able to make an educated decision about which cat furniture to buy, it is necessary you knew the basics about why and how cats actually scratch. Cats scratch woodwork, or thread work in any given place to actually mark their territory, the habit is completely instinctual which means that they will do so even if they are the sole feline members in any household. Its not just cats, but lions and even tigers scratch on nearby to demarcate their territory.

A cat scratching basically signifies two things, one the cat scratches to demarcate a boundary as its home, not just the scratch marks but also specific pheromones that special glands in the claw sheath exude warns any passing or straying cat that there is already a feline in the household. Secondly, the cats' scratching not only removes any dead cells in their claw sheaths but also helps flex their ligaments and sheath muscles.

The best possible solution to passively save your furniture from all those scratch marks would thereby be buying the cat its very own cat furniture, being specifically designed to withstand any scratching and clawing, it wont give away easily. Also the fact that scratching on this cat scratcher gives the cat more relaxation which means that cats will not scratch your furniture anymore.

This material is acrylic based and does not contain loops in its fabric, so it doesn't shred as mightily as a carpet would, although if you wish for your cat furniture to match with your overall theme, carpet would still be your obvious choice.

The choice in the structural material may also pose a bit problematic, there are various different options like particle board, cardboard, solid wood or plywood, though people usually believe that no material is stronger than solid wood, they are mistaken. A quarter of an inch thick cardboard, when formed in walls of a tower is almost as strong as well as very much lighter than a solid cylinder of wood.

While looking for a cat tree, bear in mind the weight as well as quantity of cats in your home, you would want to buy a floor-to-ceiling tower instead of a freestanding structure if you have either very playful, very fat or plenty of cats. A ceiling tree would not only be based on the ground but also be connected to the ceiling in some manner to provide better structural integrity as well as better balance.

Last but not the least, decide what exactly kind of cat furniture would your feline family member be most comfortable with. You could either get a simple cat scratcher, or if your cats are of the playful sort get a cat tree for them, though considering their weights and quantities as well as their activity types, you would have to decide what structural implements your cat tree should include. - 31851

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The Expansiveness Of Pet Stores

By Adriana Noton

Pet stores today are like little shopping plazas. You can find pretty much any pet you could want and all their accessories.

Dogs and cats are the most popular. Puppies and kittens are usually on display waiting for new homes. Their food can be found as well as treats. The selection of food is vast and includes many flavors. Typically, stores will carry high end brands with a few middle priced choices. These choices will cover the needs of pets at all stages of life. From the very young to senior pets, your food needs will be covered. Special needs diets are available too, such as kibbles for outdoor cats vs. Indoor cats.

Along with foods and treats, there are also a variety of supplements. One very common supplement is glucosamine, which is good for arthritis and joint problems. But it doesn't end there; you will find vitamins, fish oils, even water treatments that help keep teeth clean.

Dog houses, Kitty condos, beds and a large selection of toys are always right in arm's reach. So are water purifiers, leashes and collars and cat litter. These are probably things you would expect to find at the pet store. But I bet every time you go, you can find something new that you never thought of or saw before. A massage blanket for your dog or cat might be one of those things.

After taking care of the dogs and cats, check out the fish in the pet stores. Whether salt water or fresh water, the tanks are full of colorful finned creatures. Goldfish are not just goldfish; even they come in multiple breeds. Other water life is here, like frogs, snails and corals. Aquarium setups range from little betta bowls to 200 gallon tanks.

Live plants make a good addition to an aquarium and the choices for these are also huge. They help keep healthy oxygen levels and give the fish a natural setting. Fish like to graze in and around plants and they offer nice, dark hiding places. Some plants rest on the bottom of the tank and other float on the top.

Don't forget about birds and rodents. You'll be able to hear the chirps and yells from parrots and parakeets the moment you step inside. And if you listen carefully, you can also hear the squeaks from mice, rats and hamsters. Accessories for them, like wood chips and play wheels are always in stock. Snakes, ferrets and iguanas will also grab your attention.

One great thing is that the majority of pet stores will let you bring your pets into the store with you. Once inside, you can drop your furry buddy off to have his nails and hair done or to get a nice bath. Veterinarians are usually on staff too, so you can plan your shopping trips around your dog's doctors appointments.

It is not unimaginable that you could spend several hours just browsing in all the different departments. And bringing your pet along can make the trip even more enjoyable. Your bunny rabbit may not care, but your doggy sure will love the visit. You can make shopping at pet stores just as much of an experience as heading off to a department store. - 31851

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Sleepless Nights For You And Your Dog

By Catherine V. Testaratti

Being a responsible new dog owner is important to your dogs well being. Not only will you need to feed the dog, love the dog, and let him out to go to the potty, but he must have exercise. A dog without exercise is not a happy dog.

A lot of new dog owners complain about their puppies or dog keeping them awake at night. As puppies they are so cute and we make the mistake of letting them sleep in our beds. Then as they get older, they either become too big or they just become bed hogs.

As we try and put the cute puppy that's growing and taking over the bed out of the bed and room, we are now faced with whining and scratching the door. Now another problem is created and no one in the house is sleeping. Well except your husband and kids because we know they can sleep through anything.

Putting your dog in a crate or moving his bed into your room can cure his fear of separation. Anxieties of being alone can also be cured by crating your dog with a bed in your bedroom or another family member's room. Just knowing that someone is close is all they need.

As we mentioned above, crating a dog is a solution for sleeping problems. Dogs do feel safe when crated and you will be surprised how fast this works. Some owners feel bad for the dog, but don't.

If you have a dog that you just can't cure of the separation anxiety issues, some vets suggest getting the dog a friend. Getting another dog can give the anxious dog a companion and tends to help relieve the separation issues. They will play during the day while you are at work and tire themselves out.

Having a dog that is anxious and needy can also mean that they are not getting enough exercise. Exercising dogs, especially the hyper dog, is critical to a good night's sleep. Work your dog's exercise regime in with yours for a happier, tired dog.

As pet owners we need to be responsible for taking out dogs out for walks. Just because there is a yard for them to run free does not mean they are getting exercise. Running with your dogs or playing with them in a park or the yard is a good way to get them tired enough to sleep at night!

Remember, being a responsible pet owner includes exercising your dog. Dogs enjoy socializing and getting out as well as you do. Make it a family affair, you, the kids and the dogs, strolling through the neighborhood and the you can enjoy a good night sleep. - 31851

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How Our Pets Fit Into Our Lives

By Catherine V. Testaratti

Getting a dog or cat can be a big decision for you. For people without children it could be life changing. I do know many people without children who treat their pets as their children.

I have known many people over the years that have had pets prior to kids as a trial run before children. When you think about it, pets can require a much longer commitment just because they don't grow up and move out. This sheds a whole new light on getting a pet right?

I don't think people think about how long of a commitment it is to raise a cat or dog. Some can live 20+ years. That's sometimes longer than our children stay with us and you are feeding your pet, taking them to the doctor and boarding them when you take a vacation.

At least with children, there comes a time when they can stay on their own. Then they move away and go to college, eventually marrying and finally starting their own life with someone else. Well, I know that children do come and go and are always going to need us to some extent, but cat's and dog's can't survive without us.

Loving your pets is what we do unconditionally. But had we realized that we were actually taking on a longer commitment then our children per say, this might have made us rethink that decision. Our pet can bring us great joy and companionship, but they are always there.

I have grown to love our cats and they are a great comfort to me in this quiet house. Little did I know when my daughter begged and pleaded for a pet that she would not take them when she moved out. She has gone on to college, loves her carefree life, and I am hiring someone to watch them so I can take a vacation.

Before long, your house is quiet and your children are gone. Looking back you can see the separation happening and you don't realize it. Now, my daughter is off starting her new life, and here I am, glad to have the cats to keep me company.

Loving our pets like we loved our children, feeding them, caring for them and just being happy to see them is all they desire. Cats are extremely independent like those fifteen year olds we had running in and out of the house at one time. Take time to enjoy your pets like you did your kids and they will return the gift for years after those kiddos have flown the coop.

Now, back to the original question, are you ready for a pet? Remember that your children will eventually leave, and their pets are there to stay. Pets can enrich our lives long after the children are gone, and that's something to think about as well. - 31851

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Uncontrollable Urinating And Your Dog

By Catherine V. Testaratti

Is your new puppy or adult adopted dog having a problem with uncontrollable peeing during play, while excited or when it's scared? Well, this is not uncommon in puppies or adult dogs that have been abused. Submissive or excited peeing is easy to cure but you have to be consistent.

We always suggest first make a trip to the vet to make sure that there are not any medical issues the dog is suffering from. Once you determine it's nothing medical, then these lets try a few things to help your dog stop this embarrassing reaction. After all, when guests arrive you don't want to be running around cleaning up the remnants from your dog's excitement.

If you dog does not pee when you are in the dominant position like looking in its eyes or greeting it face to face, then it's probably an excitement issue. However if your dog pee's when it's in trouble or when you are bending down to greet him in a dominant position, then of course it is submissive. Luckily, we can fix both of these problems.

Praise is the most important way to train these dogs to stop submissive peeing. Teaching them to sit, stay, and roll over then rewarding them when they complete this request will start to build your dog's confidence. Approach your submissive dog by getting level with them, never pat on top of the head, always under the chin and of course never yell at the dog.

If there are accidents with the peeing, don't respond, just clean it up. But remember to praise the dog when they pee in their appropriate spot. Rewards and positive affirmation are always the best medicine.

For excitement peeing, this typically happens with puppies that are less than a year old. With older dogs as well, peeing can occur when friends come to visit or when you arrive home from work. As with the submissive, do not react, just clean it up and praise positively when the dog or puppy pee's in the right place.

While playing with your puppy, he can get excited and pee so make sure you do all the playing out in the yard or in a protected area. As we mentioned before, if there are accidents, do not react and eventually you will see this problem subside. We can't use the word praise enough so remember to make sure you acknowledge the good deed.

When you arrive home, we recommend that you keep your greeting to a minimum. High pitched voices and rowdy behavior can trigger peeing so keep it to a minimum. We do suggest no immediate greeting when you get home as to not encourage the high energy behavior

Don't feel you are mistreating the dog, remember they are not humans. This can work to cure the excited peeing dog. Calm hello greetings when the dog is not excited, affirms the calm behavior, whereas the greeting when the dog is excited encourages the excited behavior, which makes perfect sense. - 31851

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Money Saving Pet Food Tips

By Skotten Edelstein

The world is currently feeling the pinch of an economic crisis. Everyone is tightening their proverbial belts in order to save money and cut costs considerably. Sadly, no one knows for how long this dreadful scenario will stop hovering over the country's financial status. This is why it is essential to be very conscious of one's spending habits in order to maximize your purchasing power.

It doesn't help that there is still the ongoing threat of big multinational firms filing for bankruptcy and monetary bailout packages. If it would come into reality, this would result to mass layoffs and lower, or even negative, economic growth. This grim scenario looms over the stock market and keeps the entire nation on its toes.

Even pet owners are not spared from this predicament. It is obvious that expenses for pets are not as steep as those for human being. However, that is still not a reason to be unworried and shell out tons of dollars like there is no tomorrow. Nowadays, it is vital to be more conscious of your spending habits so that you can still maintain ample savings in your bank account. Always be on the lookout on ways to set aside some precious bucks. Here is a comprehensive list of ways to save money on pet food. Hopefully, they will be a welcome solution to your pet-related food woes.

Primarily, you can slash your expenses by purchasing pet food in bulk. You may be curious as to how this is possible. Well, if you were to buy a huge sack weighing seven kilos instead of seven small ones, then it means that less money was spent manufacturing the package. The pet food firm has saved quite an amount, if this is the case. Therefore, the savings they have made will then be passed on to the unwavering consumers.

Another way to save is to buy pet food online. It is common knowledge that the online marketplace is just as good, if not better, than the real world. In the internet, you have a variety of choices that will fit your discriminating needs. Most sites offer a wide array of pet food products, from the cheapest to the most expensive, depending on the quality. Here, you can easily compare a lot of factors. After you have made a decision, you can easily purchase a product and pay for it using your credit card or PayPal account. In a matter of days, your order will be delivered right at your doorstep.

Ask your veterinarian. More often than not, he can give you a big discount if you are always buying pet food from him. You may also check out for promotional packages that would include buy one take one options or free perks.

Scan the newspapers and magazines for food coupons. Advertisers usually use it as bait for potential consumers so they place it in this medium. Others prefer handing out the coupons in malls, streets or bazaars wherein a lot of people converge for a quick orientation.

Lastly, you can minimize if not avoid, treats. They can be quite draining to the pocket if done in a regular manner. If you must give a nice reward, make sure that your pet has done something special or extraordinary to deserve it. This way, he will learn how to behave better. - 31851

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Doesn't Your Buddy Deserve a Designer Dog Bed?

By John Gaddy

Diamond accessories. Fine lamb's wool sweaters. Gucci pet carriers. In recent years many luxury products have hit the pet supplies market, and designer dog beds are just one of the latest accouterments available to stylish dog owners, and their dogs. Designer dog beds are not only fashionable for your home, they are highly comfortable for your dog.

Many designer dog beds are quite simple, made in the same basic styles as most dog beds, but constructed from higher quality materials on the outside (micro fiber fabric, fleece lining, etc), and padding such as feather down, or orthopedic gel-foam and memory foam for the ultimate comfort of your dog.

The next level of designer pet beds are made to resemble human versions. Mini couches and recliners can be special ordered to match your home's existing decor. These couches are so close to the "real" thing that even dogs that only sit on your couch will use his or her own couch instead. An added feature to these dog couches is that they are lower to the ground, making it much easier for older pets to get on and off, while preventing smaller pets from orthopedic injuries due to jumping up and down from heights.

Other styles of designer pet beds include options made from wrought-iron frames, complete with matching miniature mattresses and colors to suit any color scheme. Along with their classy styles, these beds usually are off the ground which is great for keeping pets off the cold floor, and away from drafts. Custom wraps are also available to help provide extra comfort.

Designer dog beds are now being built in just about every style you could think of, from a hand-made, classic style to a super posh miniature replicas. There's no limit when it comes to designer dog beds. - 31851

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Some Tips for Successful Cat Leash Training

By Jason Greening

Whether your cat likes to spend its times indoors or outdoors, there might come a time when you need to take your cat outdoors and this is where you need to train your cat to walk on a leash. You might have seen dogs taken out on a leash, you even might have seen ponies on leash, but have you ever seen a cat on a leash? Probably not, but that doesn't mean it's not possible. Here are some practical tips for leash training your cat.

The main purpose of a leash is to control the erratic behavior of your pet while outdoors. Cats are taken on leashes so that they don't run away from you and cause public nuisance. Once a cat escapes it's very difficult to catch him, because they are very agile and able to get through small spaces easily, not to mention their jumping abilities. In some areas, it's illegal for a cat to run free. It's also potentially dangerous, despite your cat's fine instincts. There are cars, large dogs and rabid squirrels to contend with that your cat might not be able to escape.

Just as with any type of training, cat leash training will take a considerable amount of time. Do you remember the first time you tried to put a collar on your cat? The cat might have resisted putting it on and after you managed to put it on somehow, the cat would have been busy for hours trying to remove it. You will have a similar experience with the leash, but if your cat is already accustomed to a collar, half of the battle for leash training is won.

Start training your cat for a leash by attaching a leash to your cat's collar. Do not tighten the leash and keep it slackened, so that the cat gets used to it. Also, do not walk or drag the cat the first time you put the leash on your cat. Let her get used to it. This is the secret of successful cat leash training. Try this method for a few minutes on the first day.

If the cat shows a little bit of uneasiness, distract him by offering his favorite toy or food. Repeat this for several days till the cat gets accustomed to the leash. Once it is comfortable, just keep the leash on for few minutes everyday.

Next, try to walk your cat around the house. Once she gets accustomed to walking with the leash on, try to take her outdoors. Put the leash on for longer times now and walk with it even while it is walking casually. If the cat at this moment is comfortable, then consider your cat trained to walk on a leash. Next time you are going outside, just leash your cat and take it outside with you.

Cats are very independent animals and like to stay that way. It is often said that humans do not make cats their pets; it is the other way round. Cats use humans so that they can get food and shelter. For this they have adapted themselves in such a way that we feel affectionate towards them and take them as pets. You need to use these attributes in order to coax your cat to walk on a leash. - 31851

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A Cat Scratching Post is the Answer When Your Cat Has Gone Rogue!

By Carol Navagato

Every cat owner knows that their kitty might terrorize a piece of furniture. It might be to chew it, to scratch it, or even to spray it. Your kitty hasn't really just "gone rogue"! These are all ways the a cat can claim an area as their own. She is also meeting a definite physiological need when kitty is digging her claws into your favorite piece of furniture.

A cat's claws grow continuously. They are designed to be used in hunting their prey. If the cat's claws are not being worn down in this way, the old sheath will become a problem. Kitty will try to meet this BASIC NEED by clawing your furniture, or even trying to bite the sheath off herself! Scratching is good for cats for another reason too. Just as they scratch to sharpen their claws, they also need to scratch to keep their back muscles stretched. out.

So what is the answer when kitty is taking care of HER needs by terrorizing YOUR furniture? When you substitute a sturdy piece of cat furniture, such as a cat scratching post, a cat tree, or kitty condo, you cat can fulfill her need for scratching, as well as having a place to stretch, play, and nap. Choosing the right piece of cat furniture is the key.

You will want to choose a cat scratching post or cat tree that has a rough surface, such as sisal or rope to help your cat keep his nails smooth. The perfect piece of cat furniture would be at least 4 feet tall so your cat can really stretch out his back muscles. There are some tricks to get your cat to claim the cat scratching furniture as his own. You should place his cat post in a place where he can be part of the action in the house, and also, you can sprinkle some cat nip over your kitty's new furniture.

Cat scratching furniture comes in many styles, from a simple sisal scratching post to elaborate cat towers with climbing, scratching, and napping areas. Let your imagination go and find the just right piece of cat scratching furniture for your home and your cat! - 31851

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Stop Cats Scratching Doors and Sofas

By Kitty Matthews

Many people have got indoor cats. If you do, then you realize it is a agony to exist with cat dander. Allergies will make this virtually impossible. Also, you have to survive with cleaning up the litter pan daily, as that's not fun. And, the one matter that bothers nearly all is that all cats scratch on items some people are capable to get near to. The couch has been through a million covers, the pillows on the couch have been shredded to small pieces, furthermore my table appears to be like like it's been attacked by a two year old using a knife.

Fortunately, a new product called Kitty Scratcher by Emery cat aims to solve this problem. The kitty scratcher is a playing surface for the cat which also grooms cat nails so that their nails become ineffective for scratching your furniture. It includes catnip, which causes the cat to be drawn to it similar to a moth to a flame! The cat needs to get onto the working surface, and pull out their claws to scratch the surface within. What takes place is the cat wants the catnip, the board that's curved makes them want to stretch, and the kitty gets a nail trim when playing around.

The kitty scratcher tv advert was one which attracted my interest right away. It tells people that we don't require all those unattractive products in your property to save your kitty from scratching, and it is going to save you a lot of time in the long run. You can tuck this product into any corner of your room, therefore it will not stick out like a sore thumb, plus you do not have to clarify to everyone what it is, or why you have it. It saves your furnishings and your cat will enjoy playing with it.

Some folks have said that there have been a bit of issues with customer service, and they are told they need to purchase the two for 1 discount. If you purchase yours, all you will need to do is choose to just buy one instead of two on the order form. It costs $19.95 for one, nevertheless please remember to add in $7.95 for the shipping expenses. If you do decide you need two of these, all you've got to do is give some additional shipping!

My aunt has purchased 3, for the reason that she has several cats and she saw the ones I have at my apartment! She adored the thought of them, and had to buy some for her cats! They do work, and the advert is correct. My furniture has been saved! - 31851

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